A probe has been initiated after a person called a police officer, who is part of the security arrangements for the ongoing T20I between India and England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, and threatened to&nbsp;self-immolate&nbsp;if the upcoming matches in the world's largest cricket stadium were not cancelled following the rise of COVID-19 cases in the city.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The five-match T20I series, which started on March 12, has witnessed a crowd of more than 60,000 at the stadium. The stadium had hosted the last two Tests of the four-match series against England with a 50 per cent crowd.&nbsp;&nbsp;

According to reports, an FIR was lodged at Chandkheda police station in Ahmedabad after the call - identified as Pankaj Patel from Gandhinagar, rang up senior police inspector KV Patel of Chandkheda Police Station on March 12 and threatened to immolate himself if the matches continued&nbsp;in the stadium, as per the police.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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On Saturday, an audio clip of the conversation surfaced on social media in which the caller, is heard asking the police officer&nbsp;whether&nbsp;the COVID-19 related guidelines were&nbsp;being&nbsp;followed inside the stadium by the crowd.&nbsp;

The officer purportedly said that the social-distancing guidelines are not being followed with the caller demanding cancellation of the matches and then went on to threaten to self-immolate while saying that over 75,000 people are attending the matches which can pose a health risk.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Police have booked the accused under IPC sections 502 (2) for trying to promote hatred or ill will between&nbsp;classes, 504 for intentional insult, and 507 for criminal intimidation through anonymous communication.&nbsp;

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“The man had called on my cell phone on March 12 and threatened to immolate himself if the matches are held. He also used abusive words for the Gujarat government, the Chief Minister, and the Deputy Chief Minister. When I asked his name, he told me he is Pankaj Patel from Gandhinagar. I immediately called up Gandhinagar police control room and shared his phone number with the officials,” K V Patel stated in the FIR&nbsp;as quoted in media reports.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, it was announced by the BCCI that the remaining matches of the five-match T20I series between India and England will be played behind closed doors.

A probe has been initiated after a person called a police officer, who is part of the security arrangements for the ongoing T20I between India and England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, and threatened to self-immolate if the upcoming matches in the world's largest cricket stadium were not cancelled following the rise of COVID-19 cases in the city.

A probe has been initiated after a person called a police officer, who is part of the security arrangements for the ongoing T20I between India and England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, and threatened to self-immolate if the upcoming matches in the world's largest cricket stadium were not cancelled following the rise of COVID-19 cases in the city. The five-match T20I series, which started on March 12, has witnessed a crowd of more than 60,000 at the stadium. The stadium had hosted the last two Tests of the four-match series against England with a 50 per cent crowd. According to reports, an FIR was lodged at Chandkheda police station in Ahmedabad after the call - identified as Pankaj Patel from Gandhinagar, rang up senior police inspector KV Patel of Chandkheda Police Station on March 12 and threatened to immolate himself if the matches continued in the stadium, as per the police. ALSO READ: India-England games go behind closed doors because of pandemic On Saturday, an audio clip of the conversation surfaced on social media in which the caller, is heard asking the police officer whether the COVID-19 related guidelines were being followed inside the stadium by the crowd. The officer purportedly said that the social-distancing guidelines are not being followed with the caller demanding cancellation of the matches and then went on to threaten to self-immolate while saying that over 75,000 people are attending the matches which can pose a health risk. Police have booked the accused under IPC sections 502 (2) for trying to promote hatred or ill will between classes, 504 for intentional insult, and 507 for criminal intimidation through anonymous communication. ALSO READ: ICC rates Ahmedabad pitch for two-day test match 'average' “The man had called on my cell phone on March 12 and threatened to immolate himself if the matches are held. He also used abusive words for the Gujarat government, the Chief Minister, and the Deputy Chief Minister. When I asked his name, he told me he is Pankaj Patel from Gandhinagar. I immediately called up Gandhinagar police control room and shared his phone number with the officials,” K V Patel stated in the FIR as quoted in media reports. On Tuesday, it was announced by the BCCI that the remaining matches of the five-match T20I series between India and England will be played behind closed doors.

Man threatens to kill himself if India-England T20I series is not cancelled amid COVID-19 spike

South Africa opener Lizelle Lee has shot up seven spots to become the top-ranked batter in the ICC Women’s ODI Player Rankings after a fabulous run in the ongoing five-match series against India in which her side has taken a winning 3-1 lead.

Lee, who displaced Tammy Beaumont within two weeks of the England batter seizing the top spot, had scores of four, 132 not out and 69 in the three matches during the past week after having already moved from 11th to eighth the previous week with an unbeaten 83 in the series opener.&nbsp;

This is the second time that Lee has topped the ODI batting charts, having earlier taken the number one position in June 2018 when she had slammed 117 against England at Hove. Her reign that time only lasted for three days as she was overtaken by Australia’s Ellyse Perry. Lee remains the only South African to top the women’s ODI batting rankings.

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Laura Goodall, whose career-best 59 not out helped seal the decisive win in Lucknow, has gained 27 places to reach 48th position while off-spinner Nondumiso Shangase has moved up 18 places to 68th among bowlers. Ayabonga Khaka has advanced one place to ninth among bowlers and gained two slots to reach 100th among batters.

For India, Punam Raut has been the biggest gainer, moving up eight places to 18th among batters after scores of 62 not out, 77 and 104 not out. Raut, who has held a career-high ranking of 13th, is fourth in the list among Indian batters after Smriti Mandhana (seventh) Mithali Raj (ninth) and Harmanpreet Kaur (15th). Kaur is up two places among batters and has gained three places to reach 49th position in the bowling list.

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Left-arm spinner Rajeshwari Gayakwad is another one to make notable gains, gaining four slots to reach 18th among bowlers with five wickets in three matches and advancing five places to 71st among batters. Sushma Verma (up three places to 81st among batters) and Mansi Joshi (up five places to 64th among bowlers) have also gained in the latest weekly update.

South Africa opener Lizelle Lee has shot up seven spots to become the top-ranked batter in the ICC Women’s ODI Player Rankings after a fabulous run in the ongoing five-match series against India in which her side has taken a winning 3-1 lead.

South Africa opener Lizelle Lee has shot up seven spots to become the top-ranked batter in the ICC Women’s ODI Player Rankings after a fabulous run in the ongoing five-match series against India in which her side has taken a winning 3-1 lead. Lee, who displaced Tammy Beaumont within two weeks of the England batter seizing the top spot, had scores of four, 132 not out and 69 in the three matches during the past week after having already moved from 11th to eighth the previous week with an unbeaten 83 in the series opener. This is the second time that Lee has topped the ODI batting charts, having earlier taken the number one position in June 2018 when she had slammed 117 against England at Hove. Her reign that time only lasted for three days as she was overtaken by Australia’s Ellyse Perry. Lee remains the only South African to top the women’s ODI batting rankings. ALSO READ: Man threatens to kill himself if India-England T20I series is not cancelled amid COVID-19 spike Laura Goodall, whose career-best 59 not out helped seal the decisive win in Lucknow, has gained 27 places to reach 48th position while off-spinner Nondumiso Shangase has moved up 18 places to 68th among bowlers. Ayabonga Khaka has advanced one place to ninth among bowlers and gained two slots to reach 100th among batters. For India, Punam Raut has been the biggest gainer, moving up eight places to 18th among batters after scores of 62 not out, 77 and 104 not out. Raut, who has held a career-high ranking of 13th, is fourth in the list among Indian batters after Smriti Mandhana (seventh) Mithali Raj (ninth) and Harmanpreet Kaur (15th). Kaur is up two places among batters and has gained three places to reach 49th position in the bowling list. TRENDING: In Pics: Jasprit Bumrah gets bowled over, marries Sanjana Ganesan in Goa Left-arm spinner Rajeshwari Gayakwad is another one to make notable gains, gaining four slots to reach 18th among bowlers with five wickets in three matches and advancing five places to 71st among batters. Sushma Verma (up three places to 81st among batters) and Mansi Joshi (up five places to 64th among bowlers) have also gained in the latest weekly update.

ICC Women's Player Rankings: Lizelle Lee replaces Beaumont as no.1 batter in ODIs

LeBron James bagged his fourth triple-double of the season as the Los Angeles Lakers thrashed the Golden State Warriors 128-97 on Monday.

James finished with 22 points, 10 rebounds and 11 assists as the Lakers dominated almost from start to finish for an impressive win on the road at the Chase Center.

Stephen Curry led the Golden State scoring with 27 points but the much hoped-for duel with All-Star game team-mate James never materialised as the Dubs struggled to contain the Lakers' offense.

Montrezl Harrell had 27 points off the bench to lead the Lakers scoring while Kyle Kuzma finished with 17 points.

The Lakers improved to 26-13 to remain in third place in the Western Conference while the Warriors fell to ninth place with 20-20.&nbsp;

Elsewhere on Monday, Giannis Antetokounmpo reeled off his third straight triple-double as the Milwaukee Bucks extended their winning streak to four games with a 133-122 victory over the Washington Wizards.

Antetokounmpo finished with 31 points, 15 rebounds and 10 assists in another MVP-caliber performance that came two days after his 33-point triple double against the Wizards on Saturday.

"We feel like we've said it a lot after games for a good stretch of time now -- he's been in a good place mentally for a while," Bucks coach Mike Budenholzer said of Antetokounmpo's performance at Washington's Capital One Arena.

"The way he's playing, creating for others, creating for himself. He's just playing great basketball," Budenholzer added.

Khris Middleton added 23 points for Milwaukee while center Brook Lopez finished with 22 as seven Bucks players cracked double figures.

Bradley Beal led Washington's scoring with 37 points after going 13-of-19 from the field&nbsp; with four three-pointers.

Russell Westbrook finished with 23 points and 17 assists while Japan's Rui Hachimura added 22 points for Washington.

Milwaukee improved to 25-14 with the win and remain third in the Eastern Conference behind Brooklyn and leaders Philadelphia.

<h2>- Tempers flare -</h2>

In other games Monday, James Harden bagged a triple double and Kyrie Irving added 34 points as the Brooklyn Nets rolled to a fifth consecutive victory with a 117-112 win over the New York Knicks.

Harden finished with 21 points, 15 rebounds and 15 assists in a superb individual display at Brooklyn's Barclays Center.

Irving's 34-point display was backed by Jeff Green (20 points) and Joe Harris with 13 points.

The Knicks meanwhile fell just short of a fourth quarter comeback after coming within three points of Brooklyn with 10 seconds remaining having trailed by 18 points earlier in the half.

Knicks forward Julius Randle needed to be restrained by team-mates at the buzzer after a controversial travelling call effectively handed Brooklyn the win.

Randle, who finished with 33 points, 12 rebounds and six assists, angrily slammed over a chair as he headed to the locker room following the loss.

"I was frustrated. We fought so hard to come back and win the game. I was just frustrated," Randle said afterwards, declining to dwell on the incident.&nbsp;

"It's best I don't comment on the situation. There was a lot of frustration behind it for both sides. I'll let it be in the past."

Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau also played down Randle's outburst.

"It's an emotional game, he calmed down right away," Thibodeau said. "Sometimes it goes your way with the whistles, sometimes it doesn't. I thought Julius played a terrific game."

Elsewhere Monday, the Los Angeles Clippers overpowered the Dallas Mavericks 109-99 on the road with Kawhi Leonard leading an all-round offensive effort.&nbsp;

Leonard finished with 22 points on a night when no fewer than seven players reached double figures for the Clippers.&nbsp;

Luka Doncic led the Mavs scoring with 25 points, 10 rebounds and 16 assists while Kristaps Porzingis added 22 points.

LeBron James bagged his fourth triple-double of the season as the Los Angeles Lakers thrashed the Golden State Warriors 128-97 on Monday. James finished with 22 points, 10 rebounds and 11 assists as the Lakers dominated almost from start to finish for an impressive win on the road at the Chase Center.

LeBron James bagged his fourth triple-double of the season as the Los Angeles Lakers thrashed the Golden State Warriors 128-97 on Monday. James finished with 22 points, 10 rebounds and 11 assists as the Lakers dominated almost from start to finish for an impressive win on the road at the Chase Center. Stephen Curry led the Golden State scoring with 27 points but the much hoped-for duel with All-Star game team-mate James never materialised as the Dubs struggled to contain the Lakers' offense. Montrezl Harrell had 27 points off the bench to lead the Lakers scoring while Kyle Kuzma finished with 17 points. The Lakers improved to 26-13 to remain in third place in the Western Conference while the Warriors fell to ninth place with 20-20. Elsewhere on Monday, Giannis Antetokounmpo reeled off his third straight triple-double as the Milwaukee Bucks extended their winning streak to four games with a 133-122 victory over the Washington Wizards. Antetokounmpo finished with 31 points, 15 rebounds and 10 assists in another MVP-caliber performance that came two days after his 33-point triple double against the Wizards on Saturday. "We feel like we've said it a lot after games for a good stretch of time now -- he's been in a good place mentally for a while," Bucks coach Mike Budenholzer said of Antetokounmpo's performance at Washington's Capital One Arena. "The way he's playing, creating for others, creating for himself. He's just playing great basketball," Budenholzer added. Khris Middleton added 23 points for Milwaukee while center Brook Lopez finished with 22 as seven Bucks players cracked double figures. Bradley Beal led Washington's scoring with 37 points after going 13-of-19 from the field with four three-pointers. Russell Westbrook finished with 23 points and 17 assists while Japan's Rui Hachimura added 22 points for Washington. Milwaukee improved to 25-14 with the win and remain third in the Eastern Conference behind Brooklyn and leaders Philadelphia. - Tempers flare - In other games Monday, James Harden bagged a triple double and Kyrie Irving added 34 points as the Brooklyn Nets rolled to a fifth consecutive victory with a 117-112 win over the New York Knicks. Harden finished with 21 points, 15 rebounds and 15 assists in a superb individual display at Brooklyn's Barclays Center. Irving's 34-point display was backed by Jeff Green (20 points) and Joe Harris with 13 points. The Knicks meanwhile fell just short of a fourth quarter comeback after coming within three points of Brooklyn with 10 seconds remaining having trailed by 18 points earlier in the half. Knicks forward Julius Randle needed to be restrained by team-mates at the buzzer after a controversial travelling call effectively handed Brooklyn the win. Randle, who finished with 33 points, 12 rebounds and six assists, angrily slammed over a chair as he headed to the locker room following the loss. "I was frustrated. We fought so hard to come back and win the game. I was just frustrated," Randle said afterwards, declining to dwell on the incident. "It's best I don't comment on the situation. There was a lot of frustration behind it for both sides. I'll let it be in the past." Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau also played down Randle's outburst. "It's an emotional game, he calmed down right away," Thibodeau said. "Sometimes it goes your way with the whistles, sometimes it doesn't. I thought Julius played a terrific game." Elsewhere Monday, the Los Angeles Clippers overpowered the Dallas Mavericks 109-99 on the road with Kawhi Leonard leading an all-round offensive effort. Leonard finished with 22 points on a night when no fewer than seven players reached double figures for the Clippers. Luka Doncic led the Mavs scoring with 25 points, 10 rebounds and 16 assists while Kristaps Porzingis added 22 points.

LeBron leads Lakers rout, triple trio for Giannis in Bucks win

Jurgen Klopp said he had no problem with winning "three dirty points" as Diogo Jota returned to haunt Wolves with the only goal in a 1-0 win at Molineux on Monday.

A wretched run of six successive home league defeats has left Liverpool with an uphill task to qualify for the Champions League next season.

But Klopp's men have now won six of their last seven games away from Anfield.

Victory moved the English champions back up to sixth and within five points of fourth-placed Chelsea.

"It's all about the result," said Klopp. "It was a big fight. We won three dirty points, I am completely fine with that. We need that to get back on track."

A disappointing night for Wolves ended with a bigger concern than just the result as goalkeeper Rui Patricio had to be stretchered off after 15 minutes of treatment for a head injury following a collision with his own player Connor Coady in the closing stages.

However, Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo allayed fears over the Portuguese international's health.

"He's OK. He's conscious, he remembers what happens, he's aware, so they tell me he's OK," said Nuno. "He's going to recover, so it's OK."

Wolves have already been badly affected by a serious head injury this season. Their top scorer for the past two seasons, Raul Jimenez, has been out since fracturing his skull against Arsenal in November.

The absence of Jimenez means Nuno's men have missed Jota even more since he joined the English champions for an initial £41 million ($57 million) in September.

Jota has also been missed by Liverpool for much of the past three months due to a knee injury that halted his flying start to life at Anfield.

But the winger is hopeful his return can inspire a strong end to the season to secure Champions League football either via the Premier League or winning Liverpool's seventh European Cup.

"Hopefully this can be a great start of a run towards the end of the season," said Jota.

<h2>- Alisson escapes -</h2>

Klopp named the same side that bounced back to form with a 2-0 win over RB Leipzig last midweek to reach the quarter-finals of the Champions League.

However, the visitors should have been punished for a slow start as goalkeeper Alisson Becker somehow escaped without conceding a penalty when he crashed into Nelson Semedo after just two minutes.

Sadio Mane missed two big chances at the other end to open the scoring for the visitors, but the Senegalese did have a part to play in the only goal of the game in first-half stoppage time as he exchanged passes with Mohamed Salah before teeing up Jota for a low shot that should have been kept out by Patricio low to his right.

Liverpool's lack of fluency compared to the side that romped to the title last season was even more clear after the break as they were happy to sit on their lead and would have been punished by a more clinical opponent.

Coady headed wide a great chance to score against his former club, while Adama Traore stung the palms of Alisson and Fabio Silva's weak header floated into the grateful Liverpool 'keeper's arms.

But with Jimenez watching on from the stands, even Liverpool's makeshift central defensive pairing of Nat Phillips and Ozan Kabak were not asked serious questions.

Salah had a second goal for Liverpool ruled out for offside five minutes from time. During his attempt to stop the Egyptian, Coady inadvertently caught his goalkeeper.

A lengthy stoppage ensued before the game restarted in the 100th minute and Wolves used a concussion substitute as John Ruddy replaced Patricio.

Despite a nervy finale, Liverpool held out to take advantage of a weekend in which a host of the other contenders for the top four all faltered.

Jurgen Klopp said he had no problem with winning "three dirty points" as Diogo Jota returned to haunt Wolves with the only goal in a 1-0 win at Molineux on Monday.

Jurgen Klopp said he had no problem with winning "three dirty points" as Diogo Jota returned to haunt Wolves with the only goal in a 1-0 win at Molineux on Monday. A wretched run of six successive home league defeats has left Liverpool with an uphill task to qualify for the Champions League next season. But Klopp's men have now won six of their last seven games away from Anfield. Victory moved the English champions back up to sixth and within five points of fourth-placed Chelsea. "It's all about the result," said Klopp. "It was a big fight. We won three dirty points, I am completely fine with that. We need that to get back on track." A disappointing night for Wolves ended with a bigger concern than just the result as goalkeeper Rui Patricio had to be stretchered off after 15 minutes of treatment for a head injury following a collision with his own player Connor Coady in the closing stages. However, Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo allayed fears over the Portuguese international's health. "He's OK. He's conscious, he remembers what happens, he's aware, so they tell me he's OK," said Nuno. "He's going to recover, so it's OK." Wolves have already been badly affected by a serious head injury this season. Their top scorer for the past two seasons, Raul Jimenez, has been out since fracturing his skull against Arsenal in November. The absence of Jimenez means Nuno's men have missed Jota even more since he joined the English champions for an initial £41 million ($57 million) in September. Jota has also been missed by Liverpool for much of the past three months due to a knee injury that halted his flying start to life at Anfield. But the winger is hopeful his return can inspire a strong end to the season to secure Champions League football either via the Premier League or winning Liverpool's seventh European Cup. "Hopefully this can be a great start of a run towards the end of the season," said Jota. - Alisson escapes - Klopp named the same side that bounced back to form with a 2-0 win over RB Leipzig last midweek to reach the quarter-finals of the Champions League. However, the visitors should have been punished for a slow start as goalkeeper Alisson Becker somehow escaped without conceding a penalty when he crashed into Nelson Semedo after just two minutes. Sadio Mane missed two big chances at the other end to open the scoring for the visitors, but the Senegalese did have a part to play in the only goal of the game in first-half stoppage time as he exchanged passes with Mohamed Salah before teeing up Jota for a low shot that should have been kept out by Patricio low to his right. Liverpool's lack of fluency compared to the side that romped to the title last season was even more clear after the break as they were happy to sit on their lead and would have been punished by a more clinical opponent. Coady headed wide a great chance to score against his former club, while Adama Traore stung the palms of Alisson and Fabio Silva's weak header floated into the grateful Liverpool 'keeper's arms. But with Jimenez watching on from the stands, even Liverpool's makeshift central defensive pairing of Nat Phillips and Ozan Kabak were not asked serious questions. Salah had a second goal for Liverpool ruled out for offside five minutes from time. During his attempt to stop the Egyptian, Coady inadvertently caught his goalkeeper. A lengthy stoppage ensued before the game restarted in the 100th minute and Wolves used a concussion substitute as John Ruddy replaced Patricio. Despite a nervy finale, Liverpool held out to take advantage of a weekend in which a host of the other contenders for the top four all faltered.

Klopp happy to win 'dirty' as Jota returns to haunt Wolves

Lionel Messi scored a spectacular double the same night he equalled Xavi Hernandez's appearance record for Barcelona, the Argentinian inspiring his team to a 4-1 win over Huesca on Monday.&nbsp;

Messi tied Xavi's 767 games in all competitions for Barca and marked yet another milestone with a brilliant brace, a curling effort in the first half flying in off the crossbar at Camp Nou before a late shot nestled in the corner.&nbsp;

"He's the most important man in the history of Barca," said coach Ronald Koeman. "Even better that he's still with us."

Antoine Griezmann had earlier followed suit with another impressive shot into the top corner before Huesca pulled one back, Rafa Mir converting a doubtful penalty on the stroke of half-time.&nbsp;

But Messi helped Barca pull away, sending in a cross for Oscar Mingueza to head in and then scoring his second as the Catalans moved to within four points of league leaders Atletico Madrid.

Messi's performance had all the key elements of the 33-year-old's genius. In a game that celebrated his longevity, he showed his class with perhaps his best goal of the season, his creativity with an assist and his consistency, by making it 13 consecutive campaigns that he has reached 20 La Liga goals.&nbsp;

"He's so decisive," said Huesca's Mir. "They play with one man extra."

Huesca stay bottom, four points adrift of safety, while Barcelona continue their own excellent form.

They have now managed 11 wins and a draw from their last 12 matches, putting them within sight of Atletico, who they still have to play at home in May.&nbsp;

Messi should break Xavi's record on Sunday against Real Sociedad and the club toasted his achievement with a video that included tributes from numerous current and former team-mates including Gerard Pique, Sergio Busquets, Luis Suarez, Neymar, Andres Iniesta, Carlos Puyol and Xavi himself.&nbsp;

"You're still breaking records," said Suarez. "I think this one says a lot about you as a player and what you represent for Barcelona."

"We think you're extraordinary, something from another planet," said Neymar.&nbsp;

Koeman played Frenkie de Jong again in the centre of a back three but he was replaced in the second half by Ronald Araujo, whose return from injury should also be a major boost to Barca during the run-in.&nbsp;

Messi rose to the occasion in the 13th minute. He darted back to receive a pass from Busquets and flicked his first touch around the sliding Jorge Pulido. The ball was still spinning when he tapped it forward and whipped a shot that flew off the crossbar and in.&nbsp;

Barcelona were dominant and Jordi Alba thrashed a shot against the crossbar before Griezmann made it two, played into space by Pedri and driving another thundering effort into the same corner Messi had picked out.&nbsp;

De Jong poked a cross onto bar and Huesca were given hope at the end of the half when a scintillating counter-attack was rewarded with a mysterious penalty, Mir failing to connect with Ferreiro's cross but given a spot-kick anyway, seemingly for a late challenge from Marc-Andre ter Stegen. Mir made no mistake.&nbsp;

Yet Barca gave themselves breathing space when Mingueza headed in his first Barcelona goal from a cross by Messi, who had the last word, cutting in from the right and firing into the bottom corner for his 661st.

Lionel Messi scored a spectacular double the same night he equalled Xavi Hernandez's appearance record for Barcelona, the Argentinian inspiring his team to a 4-1 win over Huesca on Monday.

Lionel Messi scored a spectacular double the same night he equalled Xavi Hernandez's appearance record for Barcelona, the Argentinian inspiring his team to a 4-1 win over Huesca on Monday. Messi tied Xavi's 767 games in all competitions for Barca and marked yet another milestone with a brilliant brace, a curling effort in the first half flying in off the crossbar at Camp Nou before a late shot nestled in the corner. "He's the most important man in the history of Barca," said coach Ronald Koeman. "Even better that he's still with us." Antoine Griezmann had earlier followed suit with another impressive shot into the top corner before Huesca pulled one back, Rafa Mir converting a doubtful penalty on the stroke of half-time. But Messi helped Barca pull away, sending in a cross for Oscar Mingueza to head in and then scoring his second as the Catalans moved to within four points of league leaders Atletico Madrid. Messi's performance had all the key elements of the 33-year-old's genius. In a game that celebrated his longevity, he showed his class with perhaps his best goal of the season, his creativity with an assist and his consistency, by making it 13 consecutive campaigns that he has reached 20 La Liga goals. "He's so decisive," said Huesca's Mir. "They play with one man extra." Huesca stay bottom, four points adrift of safety, while Barcelona continue their own excellent form. They have now managed 11 wins and a draw from their last 12 matches, putting them within sight of Atletico, who they still have to play at home in May. Messi should break Xavi's record on Sunday against Real Sociedad and the club toasted his achievement with a video that included tributes from numerous current and former team-mates including Gerard Pique, Sergio Busquets, Luis Suarez, Neymar, Andres Iniesta, Carlos Puyol and Xavi himself. "You're still breaking records," said Suarez. "I think this one says a lot about you as a player and what you represent for Barcelona." "We think you're extraordinary, something from another planet," said Neymar. Koeman played Frenkie de Jong again in the centre of a back three but he was replaced in the second half by Ronald Araujo, whose return from injury should also be a major boost to Barca during the run-in. Messi rose to the occasion in the 13th minute. He darted back to receive a pass from Busquets and flicked his first touch around the sliding Jorge Pulido. The ball was still spinning when he tapped it forward and whipped a shot that flew off the crossbar and in. Barcelona were dominant and Jordi Alba thrashed a shot against the crossbar before Griezmann made it two, played into space by Pedri and driving another thundering effort into the same corner Messi had picked out. De Jong poked a cross onto bar and Huesca were given hope at the end of the half when a scintillating counter-attack was rewarded with a mysterious penalty, Mir failing to connect with Ferreiro's cross but given a spot-kick anyway, seemingly for a late challenge from Marc-Andre ter Stegen. Mir made no mistake. Yet Barca gave themselves breathing space when Mingueza headed in his first Barcelona goal from a cross by Messi, who had the last word, cutting in from the right and firing into the bottom corner for his 661st.

Messi celebrates levelling Xavi record with double against Huesca

Zinedine Zidane opened the door to Cristiano Ronaldo returning to Real Madrid on Monday, admitting a comeback is "possible" for the striker.

Asked by Sky Italia if there is any truth to rumours that Ronaldo could rejoin Madrid, Zidane said: "It's possible, it's possible."

"We know Cristiano," Zidane added. "We know the person he is and everything he's done at Real Madrid. But now he's a Juventus player and you have to have respect both him and the club."

Asked if he would like to coach Ronaldo again, Zidane said: "I did what I had to do with Cristiano. Let's see what will happen in the future."

Reports in Spain have suggested Ronaldo is keen on returning to Real Madrid, where he enjoyed a hugely successful nine years before leaving in 2018 for 100 million euros.

The 36-year-old increased speculation last week with a cryptic post on social media, in which he wrote: "It's true the past belongs in museums (I should say!) but fortunately, football has memory... and so do I!"

Ronaldo's time at Juventus has not been as successful as was hoped. The team sit third in Serie A while defeat by Porto last week meant they went out in the Champions League last 16 for a second consecutive year.

Zinedine Zidane opened the door to Cristiano Ronaldo returning to Real Madrid on Monday, admitting a comeback is "possible" for the striker. Asked by Sky Italia if there is any truth to rumours that Ronaldo could rejoin Madrid, Zidane said: "It's possible, it's possible.

Zinedine Zidane opened the door to Cristiano Ronaldo returning to Real Madrid on Monday, admitting a comeback is "possible" for the striker. Asked by Sky Italia if there is any truth to rumours that Ronaldo could rejoin Madrid, Zidane said: "It's possible, it's possible." "We know Cristiano," Zidane added. "We know the person he is and everything he's done at Real Madrid. But now he's a Juventus player and you have to have respect both him and the club." Asked if he would like to coach Ronaldo again, Zidane said: "I did what I had to do with Cristiano. Let's see what will happen in the future." Reports in Spain have suggested Ronaldo is keen on returning to Real Madrid, where he enjoyed a hugely successful nine years before leaving in 2018 for 100 million euros. The 36-year-old increased speculation last week with a cryptic post on social media, in which he wrote: "It's true the past belongs in museums (I should say!) but fortunately, football has memory... and so do I!" Ronaldo's time at Juventus has not been as successful as was hoped. The team sit third in Serie A while defeat by Porto last week meant they went out in the Champions League last 16 for a second consecutive year.

Zidane says Ronaldo return to Real Madrid 'possible'

Paris Saint-Germain forward Angel Di Maria was the victim of a burglary during Sunday's loss to Nantes, while robbers also targeted the family home of captain Marquinhos, the latest in a spate of thefts at the club.

Thieves stole jewellery and watches from the house of Argentine international Di Maria in the western Paris suburbs, but "there was no violence" involved, sources told AFP on Monday.

According to the police's special anti-robbery squad, the player's family was home at the time but "didn't come across" the thieves, a source close to the case explained.

They "didn't hear anything" during the ransacking of a safe located upstairs in the home in Neuilly, a police source added. The value of stolen goods has yet to be assessed but is said to be less than 500,000 euros ($600,000).

Di Maria last week signed a one-year extension to his PSG contract until 2022. He was replaced an hour into the 2-1 loss to Nantes following a discussion between sporting director Leonardo and coach Mauricio Pochettino.

The family home of Brazil international Marquinhos was also robbed in the Paris region.

The player's father and two sisters were home during the break-in. A police source said the father was struck in the ribs by the attackers but no injuries were sustained. Several bags containing valuables were stolen, the contents of which have yet to be determined.

PSG forward Mauro Icardi was the victim of a break-in at his home last month. Thiago Silva, Dani Alves and Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting were also robbed in recent years while playing for the club.

The commotion off the field seemed to affect PSG's players as Nantes dealt the French champions a seventh Ligue 1 defeat of the season.

"It's not an excuse but there has been an unusual drop in energy," Pochettino said after the match. "We spoke with the players but not about what happened in terms of the football."

"There are situations outside the game which must be considered."

Di Maria previously admitted that an attempted robbery on his family's home during his one year at Manchester United, in 2014-15, had left him keen to leave the Premier League club.

Paris Saint-Germain forward Angel Di Maria was the victim of a burglary during Sunday's loss to Nantes, while robbers also targeted the family home of captain Marquinhos, the latest in a spate of thefts at the club.

Paris Saint-Germain forward Angel Di Maria was the victim of a burglary during Sunday's loss to Nantes, while robbers also targeted the family home of captain Marquinhos, the latest in a spate of thefts at the club. Thieves stole jewellery and watches from the house of Argentine international Di Maria in the western Paris suburbs, but "there was no violence" involved, sources told AFP on Monday. According to the police's special anti-robbery squad, the player's family was home at the time but "didn't come across" the thieves, a source close to the case explained. They "didn't hear anything" during the ransacking of a safe located upstairs in the home in Neuilly, a police source added. The value of stolen goods has yet to be assessed but is said to be less than 500,000 euros ($600,000). Di Maria last week signed a one-year extension to his PSG contract until 2022. He was replaced an hour into the 2-1 loss to Nantes following a discussion between sporting director Leonardo and coach Mauricio Pochettino. The family home of Brazil international Marquinhos was also robbed in the Paris region. The player's father and two sisters were home during the break-in. A police source said the father was struck in the ribs by the attackers but no injuries were sustained. Several bags containing valuables were stolen, the contents of which have yet to be determined. PSG forward Mauro Icardi was the victim of a break-in at his home last month. Thiago Silva, Dani Alves and Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting were also robbed in recent years while playing for the club. The commotion off the field seemed to affect PSG's players as Nantes dealt the French champions a seventh Ligue 1 defeat of the season. "It's not an excuse but there has been an unusual drop in energy," Pochettino said after the match. "We spoke with the players but not about what happened in terms of the football." "There are situations outside the game which must be considered." Di Maria previously admitted that an attempted robbery on his family's home during his one year at Manchester United, in 2014-15, had left him keen to leave the Premier League club.

PSG loss overshadowed by thefts at Di Maria, Marquinhos homes

England's remaining three Twenty20 internationals against India will be played behind closed doors because of a surge in coronavirus cases, authorities said Monday.

India's cricket board said the 110,000 capacity Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad would be empty for the games on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.

All five games are being played in the main city in Gujarat state. The series is so far level 1-1.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has become increasingly wary as Covid-19 cases have surged in many major cities in the past two weeks.

"The decision was arrived at following detailed discussions with the state and local health authorities," said a BCCI statement.&nbsp;

"The BCCI will continue to comply with all the regulations put in place to curb the spread of the Covid-19 virus and will always put the health and safety of its fans and stakeholders at the top."&nbsp;

The 25,000-plus new cases reported each day across India since the weekend is the highest number since mid-December.

Numbers had been falling since September and India has embarked on a mass vaccination campaign but experts have blamed a slackening of social distancing and mask-wearing for the increase.

An England spokesman expressed confidence that the measure would not have an impact the team.

"Aside from meaning there will be considerably less noise in the stadium it doesn’t materially affect us," said the spokesman.

"We remain in our bubble and even when crowds were in attendance we never came into contact with any of them, and the ball was sanitised whenever it was hit into the stands."

The stadium has put 55,000 tickets on sale for each game and the first two matches saw a big turnout.

England's remaining three Twenty20 internationals against India will be played behind closed doors because of a surge in coronavirus cases, authorities said Monday.

England's remaining three Twenty20 internationals against India will be played behind closed doors because of a surge in coronavirus cases, authorities said Monday. India's cricket board said the 110,000 capacity Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad would be empty for the games on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. All five games are being played in the main city in Gujarat state. The series is so far level 1-1. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has become increasingly wary as Covid-19 cases have surged in many major cities in the past two weeks. "The decision was arrived at following detailed discussions with the state and local health authorities," said a BCCI statement. "The BCCI will continue to comply with all the regulations put in place to curb the spread of the Covid-19 virus and will always put the health and safety of its fans and stakeholders at the top." The 25,000-plus new cases reported each day across India since the weekend is the highest number since mid-December. Numbers had been falling since September and India has embarked on a mass vaccination campaign but experts have blamed a slackening of social distancing and mask-wearing for the increase. An England spokesman expressed confidence that the measure would not have an impact the team. "Aside from meaning there will be considerably less noise in the stadium it doesn’t materially affect us," said the spokesman. "We remain in our bubble and even when crowds were in attendance we never came into contact with any of them, and the ball was sanitised whenever it was hit into the stands." The stadium has put 55,000 tickets on sale for each game and the first two matches saw a big turnout.

India-England games go behind closed doors because of pandemic

Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury have signed a deal for two all-British world heavyweight title unification fights, Joshua's promoter Eddie Hearn said on Monday.

Confirming the agreement, Hearn told ESPN: "The hard part is always getting everybody to put pen to paper.

"But this was a major effort from all parties to get this over the line. You had rival promoters, rival networks and rival fighters."

Hearn said a venue for the fights, in which Joahua's WBA, IBF and WBO titles and Fury's WBC belt will be on the line, is set to be confirmed "within the next month".

According to reports, Saudi Arabia, where Joshua won a rematch against Andy Ruiz Jr in December 2019, is the frontrunner to host both fights.

But Hearn told ESPN he "already had approaches from eight or nine sites" across the Middle East, Asia, Eastern Europe and America.

"We'd like to get a site deal confirmed in the next month," he said.

Both Joshua, 31, and Fury, 32, are expected to earn £100 million ($139 million) each, with the purse split 50-50 for the first fight and 60-40 for the rematch in favour of the defending champion.

Since avenging a shock defeat to Ruiz, Joshua has defended his WBA, IBF and WBO titles against Kubrat Pulev in London in December.

Fury has not fought for more than a year since defeating Deontay Wilder in February 2020 to claim the WBC title.

Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury have signed a deal for two all-British world heavyweight title unification fights, Joshua's promoter Eddie Hearn said on Monday. Confirming the agreement, Hearn told ESPN: "The hard part is always getting everybody to put pen to paper.

Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury have signed a deal for two all-British world heavyweight title unification fights, Joshua's promoter Eddie Hearn said on Monday. Confirming the agreement, Hearn told ESPN: "The hard part is always getting everybody to put pen to paper. "But this was a major effort from all parties to get this over the line. You had rival promoters, rival networks and rival fighters." Hearn said a venue for the fights, in which Joahua's WBA, IBF and WBO titles and Fury's WBC belt will be on the line, is set to be confirmed "within the next month". According to reports, Saudi Arabia, where Joshua won a rematch against Andy Ruiz Jr in December 2019, is the frontrunner to host both fights. But Hearn told ESPN he "already had approaches from eight or nine sites" across the Middle East, Asia, Eastern Europe and America. "We'd like to get a site deal confirmed in the next month," he said. Both Joshua, 31, and Fury, 32, are expected to earn £100 million ($139 million) each, with the purse split 50-50 for the first fight and 60-40 for the rematch in favour of the defending champion. Since avenging a shock defeat to Ruiz, Joshua has defended his WBA, IBF and WBO titles against Kubrat Pulev in London in December. Fury has not fought for more than a year since defeating Deontay Wilder in February 2020 to claim the WBC title.

Joshua, Fury sign two-fight heavyweight unification deal: promoter

The Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad has just avoided being hit with demerit points after the pitch for the pink-ball Test, which was also the first international match in the refurbished stadium, was rated as&nbsp;"average" despite the match lasting only two days.&nbsp;

Cricket stadiums can be suspended for a year if they pick five demerit points and for two years if they pick 10. Notably, a “below average" rating by the International Cricket Council (ICC) match referee brings a point, a "poor”&nbsp;rating deducts three points while the lowest rating of "unfit" comes with five.&nbsp;

Interestingly, demerit points remain active for a rolling five years.&nbsp;

The Virat Kohli-led India won the third Test inside two days after 30 wickets were taken in five sessions on a 'turning' track at the Narendra Modi Stadium – which is the world's largest cricket venue with a whopping 132,000 seating capacity.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-england-favourites-to-win-t20-world-cup-but-dont-rule-out-india-ryan-sidebottom-370657" hreflang="en">Exclusive: England favourites to win T20 World Cup but don't rule out India - Ryan Sidebottom</a>

Former India fast bowler&nbsp;Javagal&nbsp;Srinath was the match referee for the four-match series, which the hosts won 3-1.&nbsp;

England were bundled out for 81 in their second innings with both sides failing to reach 150 runs in what was the shortest Test match (completed) since 1935.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Several former England players and pundits questioned the suitability of the pitch while their Indian counterparts said the poor batting was due to the pink ball, which replaces the traditional red balls for day-night test matches.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/the-problem-in-that-first-game-michael-atherton-explains-what-helped-virat-kohli-roar-back-to-form-370577" hreflang="en">'The problem in that first game...': Michael Atherton explains what helped Virat Kohli roar back to form</a>

The pitch for the second test at Chennai’s MA Chidambaram Stadium, which assisted spinners from the first session and ended on the fourth day when India sealed a 317-run win, also earned an “average” rating.&nbsp;

Chennai’s pitch for the opening test, which saw an England victory, was rated “very good” while the playing surface for the fourth and final match in Ahmedabad was marked “good”.&nbsp;

(With Reuters inputs)&nbsp;

The Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad has just avoided being hit with demerit points after the pitch for the pink-ball Test, which was also the first international match in the refurbished stadium, was rated as "average" despite the match lasting only two days.

The Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad has just avoided being hit with demerit points after the pitch for the pink-ball Test, which was also the first international match in the refurbished stadium, was rated as "average" despite the match lasting only two days. Cricket stadiums can be suspended for a year if they pick five demerit points and for two years if they pick 10. Notably, a “below average" rating by the International Cricket Council (ICC) match referee brings a point, a "poor” rating deducts three points while the lowest rating of "unfit" comes with five. Interestingly, demerit points remain active for a rolling five years. The Virat Kohli-led India won the third Test inside two days after 30 wickets were taken in five sessions on a 'turning' track at the Narendra Modi Stadium – which is the world's largest cricket venue with a whopping 132,000 seating capacity. ALSO READ: Exclusive: England favourites to win T20 World Cup but don't rule out India - Ryan Sidebottom Former India fast bowler Javagal Srinath was the match referee for the four-match series, which the hosts won 3-1. England were bundled out for 81 in their second innings with both sides failing to reach 150 runs in what was the shortest Test match (completed) since 1935. Several former England players and pundits questioned the suitability of the pitch while their Indian counterparts said the poor batting was due to the pink ball, which replaces the traditional red balls for day-night test matches. ALSO READ: 'The problem in that first game...': Michael Atherton explains what helped Virat Kohli roar back to form The pitch for the second test at Chennai’s MA Chidambaram Stadium, which assisted spinners from the first session and ended on the fourth day when India sealed a 317-run win, also earned an “average” rating. Chennai’s pitch for the opening test, which saw an England victory, was rated “very good” while the playing surface for the fourth and final match in Ahmedabad was marked “good”. (With Reuters inputs)

ICC rates Ahmedabad pitch for two-day test match 'average'

Wicketkeeper-batsman Vishnu Vinod and left-arm medium-fast bowler Lukman Meriwala are eager to show their mettle under Captain Shreyas Iyer and Coach Ricky Ponting in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. The talented domestic players were picked up by the Delhi Capitals at their base price of Rs 20 lakh in the IPL Auction on 18 February 2021.

Vishnu Vinod, who plays for Kerala in domestic cricket, has scored 906 runs, taken 10 catches and effected 5 stumpings in 35 matches in his T20 career. Meanwhile, Lukman Meriwala has picked up 72 wickets in 44 matches at an average of 14.54 in T20s. The 29-year-old, who plays for Baroda in domestic cricket, finished as the second-highest wicket-taker in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2021 with 15 scalps.

Vishnu Vinod expressed that he is looking forward to playing alongside Australian superstar Steve Smith in the upcoming IPL, "I am excited to play in a team of youngsters who were last year’s finalists. It will be exciting to play alongside Steve Smith and to be coached by Ricky Ponting. I am also looking forward to play under Shreyas Iyer’s captaincy as well."

The 27-year-old, who played three matches for RCB in IPL 2017, spoke about his experience of sharing the dressing room with AB de Villiers, " I look up to AB de Villiers. I was in awe of AB when I saw him and got to be with him in person. I was too shy to even talk to him. During a team meeting, he once told me 'I will be watching you'. He told me to practice breathing while batting to help me attain clarity while thinking and playing. I have been practising that ever since he told me."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-england-favourites-to-win-t20-world-cup-but-dont-rule-out-india-ryan-sidebottom-370657" hreflang="en">Exclusive: England favourites to win T20 World Cup but don't rule out India - Ryan Sidebottom</a>

Meanwhile, Lukman Meriwala is looking forward to spending time with Delhi Capitals' speedsters Ishant Sharma, Umesh Yadav and Kagiso Rabada. "I am really happy to join the Delhi Capitals. My family and the people in my village are also very happy. I am looking forward to speaking with Ishant (Sharma) bhai, Umesh (Yadav) bhai and Kagiso Rabada in the camp. Whenever I make a mistake, I will speak to them and work on my mistakes."

After a fantastic performance in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2021, the fast bowler expected to be picked by an IPL team in the auction. However, it was still a surreal feeling for the 29-year-old when he heard that he had been acquired by an IPL team for the first time in his life.

"When the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2021 was held, I didn't think about anything else and focussed on only that tournament. After doing well there, I expected to be picked by an IPL team this year. When the auction was going on, I was practising in the nets in Surat. The Vijay Hazare Trophy was going on that time. Our team's (Baroda) video analyst came to the nets and told me that I have been picked by Delhi Capitals. I stopped bowling immediately and was so happy to hear the news. Our nets session was also paused for five minutes as all the players in my team congratulated me," said Meriwala.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/when-i-first-arrived-at-chennai-csks-lungi-ngidi-reveals-how-ms-dhoni-gave-him-goosebumps-370702" hreflang="en">'When I first arrived at Chennai...': CSK's Lungi Ngidi reveals how MS Dhoni gave him 'goosebumps'</a>

The fast bowler has had to endure a long and hard journey until he achieved his IPL dream. Meriwala had given up on cricket at one point, but with his father's support, he has worked his way up the levels of professional cricket.

"I started playing cricket in 2003, but I was playing only club cricket then and I couldn't find a way to move forward. So, I lost hope and gave up cricket, and started working as a welder in 2007. After around two years, my father told me that he would support my career no matter what. Then I played a U-19 tournament for Baroda. After which, I kept working hard and kept moving up the ranks. After returning to cricket in 2009, I made my Ranji Trophy debut in 2017," said the 29-year-old.

Wicketkeeper-batsman Vishnu Vinod and left-arm medium-fast bowler Lukman Meriwala are eager to show their mettle under Captain Shreyas Iyer and Coach Ricky Ponting in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021.

Wicketkeeper-batsman Vishnu Vinod and left-arm medium-fast bowler Lukman Meriwala are eager to show their mettle under Captain Shreyas Iyer and Coach Ricky Ponting in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. The talented domestic players were picked up by the Delhi Capitals at their base price of Rs 20 lakh in the IPL Auction on 18 February 2021. Vishnu Vinod, who plays for Kerala in domestic cricket, has scored 906 runs, taken 10 catches and effected 5 stumpings in 35 matches in his T20 career. Meanwhile, Lukman Meriwala has picked up 72 wickets in 44 matches at an average of 14.54 in T20s. The 29-year-old, who plays for Baroda in domestic cricket, finished as the second-highest wicket-taker in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2021 with 15 scalps. Vishnu Vinod expressed that he is looking forward to playing alongside Australian superstar Steve Smith in the upcoming IPL, "I am excited to play in a team of youngsters who were last year’s finalists. It will be exciting to play alongside Steve Smith and to be coached by Ricky Ponting. I am also looking forward to play under Shreyas Iyer’s captaincy as well." The 27-year-old, who played three matches for RCB in IPL 2017, spoke about his experience of sharing the dressing room with AB de Villiers, " I look up to AB de Villiers. I was in awe of AB when I saw him and got to be with him in person. I was too shy to even talk to him. During a team meeting, he once told me 'I will be watching you'. He told me to practice breathing while batting to help me attain clarity while thinking and playing. I have been practising that ever since he told me." ALSO READ: Exclusive: England favourites to win T20 World Cup but don't rule out India - Ryan Sidebottom Meanwhile, Lukman Meriwala is looking forward to spending time with Delhi Capitals' speedsters Ishant Sharma, Umesh Yadav and Kagiso Rabada. "I am really happy to join the Delhi Capitals. My family and the people in my village are also very happy. I am looking forward to speaking with Ishant (Sharma) bhai, Umesh (Yadav) bhai and Kagiso Rabada in the camp. Whenever I make a mistake, I will speak to them and work on my mistakes." After a fantastic performance in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2021, the fast bowler expected to be picked by an IPL team in the auction. However, it was still a surreal feeling for the 29-year-old when he heard that he had been acquired by an IPL team for the first time in his life. "When the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2021 was held, I didn't think about anything else and focussed on only that tournament. After doing well there, I expected to be picked by an IPL team this year. When the auction was going on, I was practising in the nets in Surat. The Vijay Hazare Trophy was going on that time. Our team's (Baroda) video analyst came to the nets and told me that I have been picked by Delhi Capitals. I stopped bowling immediately and was so happy to hear the news. Our nets session was also paused for five minutes as all the players in my team congratulated me," said Meriwala. ALSO READ: 'When I first arrived at Chennai...': CSK's Lungi Ngidi reveals how MS Dhoni gave him 'goosebumps' The fast bowler has had to endure a long and hard journey until he achieved his IPL dream. Meriwala had given up on cricket at one point, but with his father's support, he has worked his way up the levels of professional cricket. "I started playing cricket in 2003, but I was playing only club cricket then and I couldn't find a way to move forward. So, I lost hope and gave up cricket, and started working as a welder in 2007. After around two years, my father told me that he would support my career no matter what. Then I played a U-19 tournament for Baroda. After which, I kept working hard and kept moving up the ranks. After returning to cricket in 2009, I made my Ranji Trophy debut in 2017," said the 29-year-old.

IPL 2021: Vishnu Vinod, Lukman Meriwala share their excitement about joining Delhi Capitals

Eoin Morgan is set to achieve an iconic landmark in T20I cricket when he takes the field on Tuesday for the third T20I against India at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Morgan is set to play his 100th&nbsp;T20I match and thus, will become the first England player and fourth overall to achieve the milestone.&nbsp;

The likes of Shoaib Malik, Rohit Sharma and Ross Taylor are the only three players to have played 100 or more T20I matches for their respective countries and Morgan is set to join the elite list on Tuesday. Notably, the likes of Martin Guptill, Mohammad Hafeez and former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi are the other players to have played 99 T20Is.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-england-favourites-to-win-t20-world-cup-but-dont-rule-out-india-ryan-sidebottom-370657" hreflang="en">Exclusive: England favourites to win T20 World Cup but don't rule out India - Ryan Sidebottom</a>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{ea37f2eb-bbed-4f96-8d02-7a5cf82f8c6d}{132}" paraid="84569411" >- Most T20I&nbsp;matches:&nbsp;</h2>

Shoaib Malik - 116&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma - 108&nbsp;

Ross Taylor - 102&nbsp;&nbsp;

EOIN MORGAN - 99&nbsp;

Martin Guptill - 99&nbsp;

Mohammad Hafeez - 99&nbsp;

Shahid Afridi&nbsp;–&nbsp;99&nbsp;

Morgan would hope to make his 100th&nbsp;match more memorable by taking a lead in the five-T20I series against India. The T20I series is firmly locked at 1-1 after two matches with England winning the opener and India bouncing back in the second T20I.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While England outplayed the hosts in the first T20I, India bounced back strongly after heroics from debutant Ishan Kishan and skipper Virat Kohli.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/record-breaking-virat-kohli-achieves-iconic-milestone-in-t20i-cricket-370598" hreflang="en">Record-breaking Virat Kohli achieves iconic milestone in T20I cricket</a>

“We were probably in and around par, but India bowled well and there's slightly less pace today on the pitch. They put us on the back foot from the start and pace off the ball is always challenging for players. I am glad we played on this wicket, but little disappointed with the way we played,” Morgan had said after the end of the second T20I against India.&nbsp;

“There's always an advantage in chasing statistically and the disappointing area is we couldn't counter the opposition attack in the first ten overs. The two guys at the top always try and be aggressive as they can and stick with the process. We were always going to&nbsp;miss him (Mark Wood) and hopefully, he will be fit before the next game. We will be practising and the next game is on red soil and there might be more turn,” he added hinting there would be more spin on offer in the third T20I.&nbsp;

Eoin Morgan is set to achieve an iconic landmark in T20I cricket when he takes the field on Tuesday for the third T20I against India at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Eoin Morgan is set to achieve an iconic landmark in T20I cricket when he takes the field on Tuesday for the third T20I against India at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Morgan is set to play his 100th T20I match and thus, will become the first England player and fourth overall to achieve the milestone. The likes of Shoaib Malik, Rohit Sharma and Ross Taylor are the only three players to have played 100 or more T20I matches for their respective countries and Morgan is set to join the elite list on Tuesday. Notably, the likes of Martin Guptill, Mohammad Hafeez and former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi are the other players to have played 99 T20Is. ALSO READ: Exclusive: England favourites to win T20 World Cup but don't rule out India - Ryan Sidebottom - Most T20I matches: Shoaib Malik - 116 Rohit Sharma - 108 Ross Taylor - 102 EOIN MORGAN - 99 Martin Guptill - 99 Mohammad Hafeez - 99 Shahid Afridi – 99 Morgan would hope to make his 100th match more memorable by taking a lead in the five-T20I series against India. The T20I series is firmly locked at 1-1 after two matches with England winning the opener and India bouncing back in the second T20I. While England outplayed the hosts in the first T20I, India bounced back strongly after heroics from debutant Ishan Kishan and skipper Virat Kohli. ALSO READ: Record-breaking Virat Kohli achieves iconic milestone in T20I cricket “We were probably in and around par, but India bowled well and there's slightly less pace today on the pitch. They put us on the back foot from the start and pace off the ball is always challenging for players. I am glad we played on this wicket, but little disappointed with the way we played,” Morgan had said after the end of the second T20I against India. “There's always an advantage in chasing statistically and the disappointing area is we couldn't counter the opposition attack in the first ten overs. The two guys at the top always try and be aggressive as they can and stick with the process. We were always going to miss him (Mark Wood) and hopefully, he will be fit before the next game. We will be practising and the next game is on red soil and there might be more turn,” he added hinting there would be more spin on offer in the third T20I.

Eoin Morgan set to become 1st England cricketer to play 100 T20Is

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