<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{92f7709d-cfac-44c0-b79c-e271155a26cf}{99}" paraid="1991790850" >South African speedster Lungi Ngidi has revealed how he was left in awe of MS Dhoni after joining Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2018. The Proteas bowler has further revealed how he was taken aback by Dhoni's aura, which gave him goosebumps while adding he is eager to play under 'Captain Cool’ again in IPL 2021, starting from April 9.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{a16e4757-27e8-4f9d-b041-50039f6f34a0}{206}" paraid="1705237943" >"When I first arrived at Chennai, you'd walk out and you'd hear the crowd chant his name, you would get goosebumps and they're not even talking about you. He is massive for cricket, massive for Chennai. Like everyone says, Captain Cool," Ngidi told&nbsp;ESPNCricinfo.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{09b08fca-9025-4383-83ee-aba9445bcc3d}{203}" paraid="541123403" >Ngidi scalped 11 wickets from seven matches in 2018 before opting out of the next edition due to injury. In IPL 2020, Ngidi played four matches but picked up nine wickets.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{09b08fca-9025-4383-83ee-aba9445bcc3d}{203}" paraid="541123403" ><strong>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></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{37fd5ae7-d404-4fc7-919c-09342a7c3745}{110}" paraid="502057297" >The South African quick bowler hailed Dhoni for the way he carries himself while also lauding his nature of keeping his emotions in check.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{37fd5ae7-d404-4fc7-919c-09342a7c3745}{119}" paraid="1898479982" >"He's been very consistent; that's the one thing I was amazed at the most… his consistency and how he carries himself, behaves as a captain. For me, that was one of the most amazing things. Never showing too much emotion but when you'd need to get a bit of a pick-up talk from the captain, he'd give it to you. Very amazing man and very happy to be playing under him," Ngidi added.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{37fd5ae7-d404-4fc7-919c-09342a7c3745}{128}" paraid="1529109829" >CSK added the likes of Moeen Ali,&nbsp;Krishnappa Gowtham, Cheteshwar Pujara, M Harisankar Reddy, K Bhagath Varma and C Hari Nishanth&nbsp;to their squad in the IPL 2021 auction and Ngidi is looking forward to playing with them in the tournament.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{37fd5ae7-d404-4fc7-919c-09342a7c3745}{128}" paraid="1529109829" ><strong>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></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{37fd5ae7-d404-4fc7-919c-09342a7c3745}{182}" paraid="521122859" >"The combination is going to be interesting to see. Who plays, who misses out but the coaching staff and the captain get along very well and they've always got plans to fix things. So, I'm really excited to see how the guys are going to get it this year," the fast bowler said.&nbsp;</p>


South African speedster Lungi Ngidi has revealed how he was left in awe of MS Dhoni after joining Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2018.

South African speedster Lungi Ngidi has revealed how he was left in awe of MS Dhoni after joining Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2018. The Proteas bowler has further revealed how he was taken aback by Dhoni's aura, which gave him goosebumps while adding he is eager to play under 'Captain Cool’ again in IPL 2021, starting from April 9. "When I first arrived at Chennai, you'd walk out and you'd hear the crowd chant his name, you would get goosebumps and they're not even talking about you. He is massive for cricket, massive for Chennai. Like everyone says, Captain Cool," Ngidi told ESPNCricinfo. Ngidi scalped 11 wickets from seven matches in 2018 before opting out of the next edition due to injury. In IPL 2020, Ngidi played four matches but picked up nine wickets. ALSO READ: Exclusive: England favourites to win T20 World Cup but don't rule out India - Ryan Sidebottom The South African quick bowler hailed Dhoni for the way he carries himself while also lauding his nature of keeping his emotions in check. "He's been very consistent; that's the one thing I was amazed at the most… his consistency and how he carries himself, behaves as a captain. For me, that was one of the most amazing things. Never showing too much emotion but when you'd need to get a bit of a pick-up talk from the captain, he'd give it to you. Very amazing man and very happy to be playing under him," Ngidi added. CSK added the likes of Moeen Ali, Krishnappa Gowtham, Cheteshwar Pujara, M Harisankar Reddy, K Bhagath Varma and C Hari Nishanth to their squad in the IPL 2021 auction and Ngidi is looking forward to playing with them in the tournament. ALSO READ: Record-breaking Virat Kohli achieves iconic milestone in T20I cricket "The combination is going to be interesting to see. Who plays, who misses out but the coaching staff and the captain get along very well and they've always got plans to fix things. So, I'm really excited to see how the guys are going to get it this year," the fast bowler said.

'When I first arrived at Chennai...': CSK's Lungi Ngidi reveals how MS Dhoni gave him 'goosebumps'

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{f966e8c2-7acf-478e-9452-5e17aad0c103}{33}" paraid="340136393" >England opener Jason Roy is confident that England would make a comeback in the ongoing five-match T20I series against India. The T20I series between India and England is firmly locked at 1-1 with the hosts winning the second T20I by seven wickets at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{7b9e9e42-7ff9-420a-ac8c-8fc0ba5c1b6c}{123}" paraid="2019792913" >Roy, who has been on a good run of form in the series with scores of 49 and 46, said India are a class team&nbsp;while adding the visitors are full of confidence heading into the crucial third match of the series, scheduled to be played on Tuesday in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{a2d5bfbb-2dbf-4eb0-afeb-5d9f2a83b355}{16}" paraid="483127157" >"I am very confident that we can bounce back. India is a class team, but the way we started the series in the first game, was a bit comprehensive than what they gave us last night. I think going into the third game, we are full of confidence, in the last eight overs of our batting yesterday, we found it a bit difficult, we are a&nbsp;fast-learning&nbsp;side so I am confident that we will bounce back," said Roy during a virtual press conference on Monday.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{737a1c1c-470a-403b-9091-2ad93565b1c0}{239}" paraid="1069791274" >"I learnt that I am staying on my shots a little bit more. You saw a couple of my reverse sweeps, I missed some of the balls but I rectified it during the course of my innings and it is just a pitch where you have to pick your bowler. Unfortunately, the bowler I picked got me out, Washington was the guy I was looking to target, unfortunately, it did not go my way. It was a slow and tough pitch, they made light work of it," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{737a1c1c-470a-403b-9091-2ad93565b1c0}{239}" paraid="1069791274" ><strong>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></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{a2d5bfbb-2dbf-4eb0-afeb-5d9f2a83b355}{40}" paraid="143887415" >Roy, like the first T20I, was looking for a big score in the second match, but similar to the series opener, Washington Sundar dismissed him just before his half-century. Roy said that he is still looking to get a big score.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{74e28992-992e-4032-b1d0-f139101f7d47}{63}" paraid="1600158707" >The England opener shared his thoughts on the bio-secure bubble life and how challenging it has been for the players.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{0b779cfd-2fb4-4fd9-ac5d-a35f4c538ed0}{218}" paraid="156054191" >"I think the whole squad has played a huge amount of cricket in the sub-continent, playing in this five-match series and then the ODIs, it will hold us in good stead. Last night, we made a few mistakes, it is all fun. Still looking for that big score, those 40s are great, but to get a competitive total in T20Is, you need someone getting a big score. There is still a lot to improve on," said Roy.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{737a1c1c-470a-403b-9091-2ad93565b1c0}{251}" paraid="1095752687" >"I just think the last year has been a huge learning curve, everything that went on with Covid-19 and bubble life, with all this stuff that could cloud your judgment, it has been a huge learning curve. That is all behind me and I am looking forward to the next innings. I think that's my target, my mindset is to get the best possible start for the team, put aside how I might be feeling, my job is to not mess around, really," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{737a1c1c-470a-403b-9091-2ad93565b1c0}{251}" paraid="1095752687" ><strong>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></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{f966e8c2-7acf-478e-9452-5e17aad0c103}{8}" paraid="576991010" >Further elaborating on his point, Roy said: "To score a hundred in the T20 format, you need to be ultra-aggressive. You are looking to face a maximum of 60 balls and then scoring a hundred, you need to be aggressive. It is a mixture of aggression and pretty calculated stuff if you want to get those big scores. If you live by the sword, you need to be willing to die by it."&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{f966e8c2-7acf-478e-9452-5e17aad0c103}{20}" paraid="811081445" >When asked about his take on ECB's rotation policy, Roy said: "It is quite an easy stance to take from outside of these bubbles. I think the rest side of the things is coming as the mental well-being of players needs to be looked at. We are here for three weeks, but the Test team first went on to Sri Lanka, and then it was here. That is mentally taxing on you and your family, so from my point of view, they are just taking a mental rest and it is not anything physical. This environment is quite demanding."&nbsp;</p>


England opener Jason Roy is confident that England would make a comeback in the ongoing five-match T20I series against India. The T20I series between India and England is firmly locked at 1-1 with the hosts winning the second T20I by seven wickets at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

England opener Jason Roy is confident that England would make a comeback in the ongoing five-match T20I series against India. The T20I series between India and England is firmly locked at 1-1 with the hosts winning the second T20I by seven wickets at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Roy, who has been on a good run of form in the series with scores of 49 and 46, said India are a class team while adding the visitors are full of confidence heading into the crucial third match of the series, scheduled to be played on Tuesday in Ahmedabad. "I am very confident that we can bounce back. India is a class team, but the way we started the series in the first game, was a bit comprehensive than what they gave us last night. I think going into the third game, we are full of confidence, in the last eight overs of our batting yesterday, we found it a bit difficult, we are a fast-learning side so I am confident that we will bounce back," said Roy during a virtual press conference on Monday. "I learnt that I am staying on my shots a little bit more. You saw a couple of my reverse sweeps, I missed some of the balls but I rectified it during the course of my innings and it is just a pitch where you have to pick your bowler. Unfortunately, the bowler I picked got me out, Washington was the guy I was looking to target, unfortunately, it did not go my way. It was a slow and tough pitch, they made light work of it," he added. ALSO READ: Exclusive: England favourites to win T20 World Cup but don't rule out India - Ryan Sidebottom Roy, like the first T20I, was looking for a big score in the second match, but similar to the series opener, Washington Sundar dismissed him just before his half-century. Roy said that he is still looking to get a big score. The England opener shared his thoughts on the bio-secure bubble life and how challenging it has been for the players. "I think the whole squad has played a huge amount of cricket in the sub-continent, playing in this five-match series and then the ODIs, it will hold us in good stead. Last night, we made a few mistakes, it is all fun. Still looking for that big score, those 40s are great, but to get a competitive total in T20Is, you need someone getting a big score. There is still a lot to improve on," said Roy. "I just think the last year has been a huge learning curve, everything that went on with Covid-19 and bubble life, with all this stuff that could cloud your judgment, it has been a huge learning curve. That is all behind me and I am looking forward to the next innings. I think that's my target, my mindset is to get the best possible start for the team, put aside how I might be feeling, my job is to not mess around, really," he added. ALSO READ: Record-breaking Virat Kohli achieves iconic milestone in T20I cricket Further elaborating on his point, Roy said: "To score a hundred in the T20 format, you need to be ultra-aggressive. You are looking to face a maximum of 60 balls and then scoring a hundred, you need to be aggressive. It is a mixture of aggression and pretty calculated stuff if you want to get those big scores. If you live by the sword, you need to be willing to die by it." When asked about his take on ECB's rotation policy, Roy said: "It is quite an easy stance to take from outside of these bubbles. I think the rest side of the things is coming as the mental well-being of players needs to be looked at. We are here for three weeks, but the Test team first went on to Sri Lanka, and then it was here. That is mentally taxing on you and your family, so from my point of view, they are just taking a mental rest and it is not anything physical. This environment is quite demanding."

Confident England will bounce back against India, says Jason Roy ahead of 3rd T20I

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{9153f47f-0a93-4685-9199-a06f1fc7c1c3}{103}" paraid="265794479" >Former England pacer Ryan Sidebottom has achieved it all when it comes to playing international cricket. From making international debut at the iconic Lord's, picking up a Test hat-trick against New Zealand,&nbsp;to winning the ICC T20 World Cup in 2010, Sidebottom's achievements speak for themselves. A left-arm pacer who could swing it big and a fierce competitor on the field, Sidebottom is&nbsp;turning the clock back&nbsp;in the Road Safety World Series for England Legends – almost 11 years since hanging his boots from international cricket.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{81819fd5-dc20-4f65-bd2e-0d673b02c627}{66}" paraid="361520939" >In an exclusive interview with WION, Ryan Sidebottom, who played 65 matches for England across formats, talked about his experience of playing in India against the legends of the game while also sharing his take on ongoing England's tour of India, the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup and who he feels is the best batsman in the world.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{81819fd5-dc20-4f65-bd2e-0d673b02c627}{66}" paraid="361520939" ><img alt="Ryan Sidebottom" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8cd1be0e-ab22-4df1-81d2-1f2a69ac9ee0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_DV320060.jpg" /></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{c68d87ee-6d0e-4483-b3d5-b61c4d1ee533}{2}" paraid="480994463" >With 50 per cent crowd allowed inside the stadiums for the Road Safety World Series, the fans have been at their best to cheer for the greats of the game. With the likes of&nbsp;Sachin&nbsp;Tendulkar,&nbsp;Brian Lara,&nbsp;Kevin Pietersen,&nbsp;Tillakaratne&nbsp;Dilshan, Jonty Rhodes among other&nbsp;legends&nbsp;participating in the tournament, the crowd has made sure to give the former stars a great reception on the ground.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{c3d98f37-51e9-41fb-9774-22936f2ff789}{214}" paraid="1684605402" >When asked about his experience of playing in India, Sidebottom told WION: “It has been great! The people here are so welcoming and the hospitality is just unbelievable. To be able to play with and against some of the legends of the game is an&nbsp;honour. The crowd has been incredible. The noise level they produce in the ground is unmatchable. To be back on the field after many years with all other players feels great and to be able to play in front of crowd after a tough year for all is great.”&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{3810cb70-48b0-4d12-b8e0-5b81b0c4d7a6}{36}" paraid="330338323" >“Everyone here is in good spirits. We are playing for a good cause, to increase awareness around&nbsp;road safety. It is great to catch up with all the mates. We all want to play good cricket and entertain the crowd.&nbsp;Thank you so much for coming in and supporting us and other teams participating in the Road Safety World Series. It has been a surreal experience playing in front of the crowd. Keep coming and supporting us as we continue to play for a good cause.” the former England left-arm pacer added.</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{3810cb70-48b0-4d12-b8e0-5b81b0c4d7a6}{36}" paraid="330338323" ><img alt="Ryan Sidebottom" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="15d266e5-a070-490e-8b35-2e0d2e77629a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/EwbzphbUYA8Zbe5_0.jpg" />&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{672403ec-1856-4a6d-a97a-eadbacb72e4e}{211}" paraid="189387817" >The match between India Legends and England Legends has been hailed as the best match of the&nbsp;Road Safety World Series&nbsp;so far. While Kevin Pietersen smashed it all over the park for England Legends, the likes of Irfan Pathan and Manpreet&nbsp;Gony&nbsp;took the match to the last over of the match with Sidebottom successfully defending 19 runs – as he did against India in the T20 World Cup back in 2009.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{672403ec-1856-4a6d-a97a-eadbacb72e4e}{211}" paraid="189387817" ><strong>WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/england-favourites-to-win-t20-world-cup-virat-kohli-369784" hreflang="en">England favourites to win T20 World Cup: Virat Kohli</a></strong></p>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{672403ec-1856-4a6d-a97a-eadbacb72e4e}{211}" paraid="189387817" >"Great to be back playing with some greats of the game"</h2>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{cc45b37e-3adc-443e-a720-68c15447d2ea}{71}" paraid="1118966016" >"It was great. To play against greats like&nbsp;Sachin&nbsp;Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag among so many others is a huge&nbsp;honour. The crowd was going bonkers when we played against them. KP&nbsp;(Kevin Pietersen)&nbsp;did really well with the bat to put us in a strong position, Monty Panesar was superb with the ball. But to be honest my heart is still racing thinking about the hitting from Irfan and&nbsp;Gony.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{771c533b-edd9-49eb-8d59-53cdb74b8736}{160}" paraid="1697944827" >"Thankfully, we won and it was great fun to be involved in such a high-octane match.&nbsp;The stats popped up after the match ended and the guys started to share on our chat group, it was a nice moment and we all had a good laugh,” Sidebottom, who has 79 Test wickets,&nbsp;said.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Deja vu, boys are still buzzing from the amazing game last night. No wonder <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IPL</a> is the best T20 league in the world. India is the place to be. <a href="https://twitter.com/RSWorldSeries?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RSWorldSeries</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sachin_rt</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/KP24?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KP24</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/BrianLara?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BrianLara</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/RyanSidebottom?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RyanSidebottom</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Hoggy602?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Hoggy602</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/jimmyt20?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@jimmyt20</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/scho?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@scho</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/sonamakapoor?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sonamakapoor</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/karanjohar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@karanjohar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/KapilSharmaK9?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KapilSharmaK9</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cricket</a> <a href="https://t.co/IhInhtwUqz">pic.twitter.com/IhInhtwUqz</a></p>
— Monty Panesar (@MontyPanesar) <a href="https://twitter.com/MontyPanesar/status/1369518301420736512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Coming to international cricket,&nbsp;England suffered a 3-1 series defeat to India in the recently concluded four-Test series with Virat Kohli &amp; Co making a comeback after losing the opener by 227 runs. Sidebottom reckons India simply outplayed England on their home conditions&nbsp;while adding England simply didn't have answers for the way hosts played.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20i-series-against-india-an-opportunity-to-prepare-for-world-cup-says-englands-eoin-morgan-369789" hreflang="en">T20I series against India an opportunity to prepare for World Cup, says England's Eoin Morgan</a></strong></p>

<h2>"Credit to India for dominating the Test series"</h2>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{5bd41d0a-90eb-47dd-b1d5-c37923e3b2b4}{47}" paraid="1389217727" >“Credit to India, they were simply brilliant in their home conditions. I feel England could have done a lot better when they batted first. The first Test win was great but India got their basics right in the next matches to rightly win the series. England were dominated and outplayed, and for that, we have to credit the Indian players and not shift the focus on pitches because both the teams play on it and it is equal for everyone involved in that particular match. The likes of&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;and Ashwin were great&nbsp;with&nbsp;the ball and the Indian batters showed how to bat on those pitches in Chennai and Ahmedabad.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{409dffc3-e915-4ca3-9e2d-067b0592889d}{198}" paraid="550905825" >“Also, I feel it was a great opportunity for English players to be heroes and inspire&nbsp;millions as the Test series was on free-to-air television,” the former England pacer said.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{5bd41d0a-90eb-47dd-b1d5-c37923e3b2b4}{2}" paraid="1430150330" >Ongoing England's tour of India has seen the visitors being&nbsp;criticised&nbsp;for their rotation policy. While the likes of Jonny Bairstow, Jos Buttler, Moeen Ali among a few others couldn't play the complete four-match Test series due to England and Wales Cricket Board's (ECB) strict rotation policy, former players and pundits have&nbsp;not minced their words while&nbsp;criticising&nbsp;the&nbsp;rotation tradition. However, Sidebottom has a different take on the matter.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{bbc2b322-28e3-4de7-80c5-4ad3cc1640c0}{5}" paraid="2083264235" >“Look, I would have been against it had it been normal days for us as human beings. Bio-bubble life is not easy and different individuals react to certain conditions differently. For me, Test cricket is the&nbsp;pinnacle&nbsp;and then come other formats so I would always prefer the best players playing&nbsp;red-ball cricket. But with players staying away from their families for long periods and sometimes confined to their hotel rooms, you know it is not easy,” Sidebottom opined.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{bbc2b322-28e3-4de7-80c5-4ad3cc1640c0}{5}" paraid="2083264235" ><img alt="Ryan Sidebottom" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="63617ead-3d55-4b0e-8e79-bea5d93f5ca3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_Was2203549.jpg" /></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{816ae230-339f-4a54-bb58-ee46580cae80}{37}" paraid="1383505858" >After the completion of the four-Test series between India and England, both sides have started their preparations for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled to be hosted by India later in the year.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{816ae230-339f-4a54-bb58-ee46580cae80}{37}" paraid="1383505858" >England one of the favourites for T20 World Cup but don't rule out India: Ryan Sidebottom</h2>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{c680a41f-41d9-40ae-b910-9a1966ebb9b8}{69}" paraid="1629325543" >Sidebottom feels England will&nbsp;be one of the&nbsp;favourites&nbsp;to win the T20 World Cup given the brand of white-ball cricket they have played in recent times. However, the former left-arm paceman has said that teams like India and Australia will be a force to reckon with in the much-awaited tournament.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{480beaba-2684-4330-990f-3f5d29dcc2e7}{5}" paraid="1801933108" >“England&nbsp;will&nbsp;be one of the&nbsp;favourites&nbsp;to win the T20 World Cup. The way England have approached their limited-overs cricket is refreshing to watch and that helped them win the 50-over World Cup in 2019. But there are some great sides. Don't rule out India, Australia, the West Indies among others, they all have quality players at their helm,&nbsp;so I feel it would be a fantastic tournament to watch and the contest would be really tight. I hope, England would&nbsp;be able to win it.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{480beaba-2684-4330-990f-3f5d29dcc2e7}{5}" paraid="1801933108" ><img alt="Ryan Sidebottom" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="032cc74e-cdcf-427f-9f8c-e647e0eb3d2f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_Was3085219.jpg" /></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{8ef46fee-f893-427c-830e-d984f599f49b}{9}" paraid="1895819911" >Sidebottom, whose career was cut short due to persistent injury issues, hailed the quality of pacer in international cricket while also lauding the fitness levels of today's cricketers.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{dfdac813-8ee3-448c-b24d-6cac790aa659}{149}" paraid="1651370133" >When asked what does he make of the&nbsp;quality of&nbsp;pacers in international cricket, the 2010 T20 World Cup winner said:&nbsp;“There are some fantastic pacers going around. The likes of Pat Cummins, Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah, Kagiso&nbsp;Rabada, Trent Boult,&nbsp;Jofra Archer&nbsp;so many good pacers.&nbsp;The quality of pace bowling which we have witnessed in the last few years have been top-notch. The fitness levels of today's players are on different levels&nbsp;and it is a great spectacle to see them steaming in and bowling with good pace across formats.”&nbsp;</p>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{dfdac813-8ee3-448c-b24d-6cac790aa659}{149}" paraid="1651370133" >"Virat Kohli the best in the business"</h2>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{0ca6a451-9404-43f9-82bd-a0bc3a906cb6}{228}" paraid="430970072" >When asked who, according to him, is the best player currently, the former England pacer said: “When we talk about the best in the business, the name of Virat Kohli comes to my mind.&nbsp;He is pretty good, isn't he?”&nbsp;</p>


Former England pacer Ryan Sidebottom has achieved it all when it comes to playing international cricket. From making international debut at the iconic Lord's, picking up a Test hat-trick against New Zealand, to winning the ICC T20 World Cup in 2010, Sidebottom's achievements speak for themselves.

Former England pacer Ryan Sidebottom has achieved it all when it comes to playing international cricket. From making international debut at the iconic Lord's, picking up a Test hat-trick against New Zealand, to winning the ICC T20 World Cup in 2010, Sidebottom's achievements speak for themselves. A left-arm pacer who could swing it big and a fierce competitor on the field, Sidebottom is turning the clock back in the Road Safety World Series for England Legends – almost 11 years since hanging his boots from international cricket. In an exclusive interview with WION, Ryan Sidebottom, who played 65 matches for England across formats, talked about his experience of playing in India against the legends of the game while also sharing his take on ongoing England's tour of India, the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup and who he feels is the best batsman in the world. With 50 per cent crowd allowed inside the stadiums for the Road Safety World Series, the fans have been at their best to cheer for the greats of the game. With the likes of Sachin Tendulkar, Brian Lara, Kevin Pietersen, Tillakaratne Dilshan, Jonty Rhodes among other legends participating in the tournament, the crowd has made sure to give the former stars a great reception on the ground. When asked about his experience of playing in India, Sidebottom told WION: “It has been great! The people here are so welcoming and the hospitality is just unbelievable. To be able to play with and against some of the legends of the game is an honour. The crowd has been incredible. The noise level they produce in the ground is unmatchable. To be back on the field after many years with all other players feels great and to be able to play in front of crowd after a tough year for all is great.” “Everyone here is in good spirits. We are playing for a good cause, to increase awareness around road safety. It is great to catch up with all the mates. We all want to play good cricket and entertain the crowd. Thank you so much for coming in and supporting us and other teams participating in the Road Safety World Series. It has been a surreal experience playing in front of the crowd. Keep coming and supporting us as we continue to play for a good cause.” the former England left-arm pacer added. The match between India Legends and England Legends has been hailed as the best match of the Road Safety World Series so far. While Kevin Pietersen smashed it all over the park for England Legends, the likes of Irfan Pathan and Manpreet Gony took the match to the last over of the match with Sidebottom successfully defending 19 runs – as he did against India in the T20 World Cup back in 2009. WATCH: England favourites to win T20 World Cup: Virat Kohli "Great to be back playing with some greats of the game" "It was great. To play against greats like Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag among so many others is a huge honour. The crowd was going bonkers when we played against them. KP (Kevin Pietersen) did really well with the bat to put us in a strong position, Monty Panesar was superb with the ball. But to be honest my heart is still racing thinking about the hitting from Irfan and Gony. "Thankfully, we won and it was great fun to be involved in such a high-octane match. The stats popped up after the match ended and the guys started to share on our chat group, it was a nice moment and we all had a good laugh,” Sidebottom, who has 79 Test wickets, said. Deja vu, boys are still buzzing from the amazing game last night. No wonder @IPL is the best T20 league in the world. India is the place to be. @RSWorldSeries @sachin_rt @KP24 @BrianLara @RyanSidebottom @Hoggy602 @jimmyt20 @scho @sonamakapoor @karanjohar @KapilSharmaK9 #Cricket pic.twitter.com/IhInhtwUqz — Monty Panesar (@MontyPanesar) March 10, 2021 × Coming to international cricket, England suffered a 3-1 series defeat to India in the recently concluded four-Test series with Virat Kohli & Co making a comeback after losing the opener by 227 runs. Sidebottom reckons India simply outplayed England on their home conditions while adding England simply didn't have answers for the way hosts played. ALSO READ: T20I series against India an opportunity to prepare for World Cup, says England's Eoin Morgan "Credit to India for dominating the Test series" “Credit to India, they were simply brilliant in their home conditions. I feel England could have done a lot better when they batted first. The first Test win was great but India got their basics right in the next matches to rightly win the series. England were dominated and outplayed, and for that, we have to credit the Indian players and not shift the focus on pitches because both the teams play on it and it is equal for everyone involved in that particular match. The likes of Axar and Ashwin were great with the ball and the Indian batters showed how to bat on those pitches in Chennai and Ahmedabad. “Also, I feel it was a great opportunity for English players to be heroes and inspire millions as the Test series was on free-to-air television,” the former England pacer said. Ongoing England's tour of India has seen the visitors being criticised for their rotation policy. While the likes of Jonny Bairstow, Jos Buttler, Moeen Ali among a few others couldn't play the complete four-match Test series due to England and Wales Cricket Board's (ECB) strict rotation policy, former players and pundits have not minced their words while criticising the rotation tradition. However, Sidebottom has a different take on the matter. “Look, I would have been against it had it been normal days for us as human beings. Bio-bubble life is not easy and different individuals react to certain conditions differently. For me, Test cricket is the pinnacle and then come other formats so I would always prefer the best players playing red-ball cricket. But with players staying away from their families for long periods and sometimes confined to their hotel rooms, you know it is not easy,” Sidebottom opined. After the completion of the four-Test series between India and England, both sides have started their preparations for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled to be hosted by India later in the year. England one of the favourites for T20 World Cup but don't rule out India: Ryan Sidebottom Sidebottom feels England will be one of the favourites to win the T20 World Cup given the brand of white-ball cricket they have played in recent times. However, the former left-arm paceman has said that teams like India and Australia will be a force to reckon with in the much-awaited tournament. “England will be one of the favourites to win the T20 World Cup. The way England have approached their limited-overs cricket is refreshing to watch and that helped them win the 50-over World Cup in 2019. But there are some great sides. Don't rule out India, Australia, the West Indies among others, they all have quality players at their helm, so I feel it would be a fantastic tournament to watch and the contest would be really tight. I hope, England would be able to win it. Sidebottom, whose career was cut short due to persistent injury issues, hailed the quality of pacer in international cricket while also lauding the fitness levels of today's cricketers. When asked what does he make of the quality of pacers in international cricket, the 2010 T20 World Cup winner said: “There are some fantastic pacers going around. The likes of Pat Cummins, Jasprit Bumrah, Kagiso Rabada, Trent Boult, Jofra Archer so many good pacers. The quality of pace bowling which we have witnessed in the last few years have been top-notch. The fitness levels of today's players are on different levels and it is a great spectacle to see them steaming in and bowling with good pace across formats.” "Virat Kohli the best in the business" When asked who, according to him, is the best player currently, the former England pacer said: “When we talk about the best in the business, the name of Virat Kohli comes to my mind. He is pretty good, isn't he?”

Exclusive: England favourites to win T20 World Cup but don't rule out India - Ryan Sidebottom

In Pics: Jasprit Bumrah gets bowled over, marries Sanjana Ganesan in Goa

<p>Spectators will be barred from the start of the Tokyo Olympics torch relay, organisers said Monday, announcing a pared-back launch ceremony.</p>

<p>"The Grand Start ceremony and the first section of the Fukushima Torch Relay... will not be open to the public, but it will be broadcast live via a Tokyo 2020 official channel," Tokyo 2020 said in a statement.</p>

<p>The announcement comes ahead of a decision on whether fans from overseas will be allowed to enter Japan for the coronavirus-delayed Games, which is expected to be taken before the torch relay begins on March 25.</p>


Spectators will be barred from the start of the Tokyo Olympics torch relay, organisers said Monday, announcing a pared-back launch ceremony. "The Grand Start ceremony and the first section of the Fukushima Torch Relay.

Spectators will be barred from the start of the Tokyo Olympics torch relay, organisers said Monday, announcing a pared-back launch ceremony. "The Grand Start ceremony and the first section of the Fukushima Torch Relay... will not be open to the public, but it will be broadcast live via a Tokyo 2020 official channel," Tokyo 2020 said in a statement. The announcement comes ahead of a decision on whether fans from overseas will be allowed to enter Japan for the coronavirus-delayed Games, which is expected to be taken before the torch relay begins on March 25.

Spectators barred from Tokyo Olympics torch relay start: organisers

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{017a06bf-f918-411c-a84f-ee3b11507c5b}{174}" paraid="1030069183" >Virat Kohli continues to shatter the record books as on Sunday the Indian skipper became the first-ever player to score 3000 international runs following his unbeaten 73 off 49 deliveries in the second T20I against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{017a06bf-f918-411c-a84f-ee3b11507c5b}{182}" paraid="1480597471" >Courtesy half-centuries by debutant Ishan Kishan and Kohli, India chased down a target of 165 runs in 17.5 overs to&nbsp;equalise&nbsp;the five-match series 1-1.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{b5324984-ca28-48ac-bdc6-93c30d8c04ad}{74}" paraid="599031293" >Kohli, who was 72 runs away from the iconic landmark of scoring 3000 T20I runs, hammered an unbeaten 73 to become the first-ever player to amass 3000 T20I runs. The Indian skipper finished the match off in style with two glorious strokes – a flicked boundary and a pulled six off Chris Jordan.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{b5324984-ca28-48ac-bdc6-93c30d8c04ad}{74}" paraid="599031293" ><strong>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></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{d3ac331f-5340-4368-86b5-a73e5d6e23f1}{214}" paraid="30886786" >The Indian skipper now has scored 6001 runs in 87 T20Is since making his debut in Zimbabwe in 2010. He now is the only player to have an average of 50+ in all three formats of the game.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{3253f81d-be0d-4334-9d22-a0e9c8c8774a}{211}" paraid="852689009" >Moreover, Kohli is also the leading run-scorer in the Indian&nbsp;Premier&nbsp;League (IPL) with as many as 5878 runs in 192 matches.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{6f5662ee-a240-4d3e-b58b-bd67f11c1b30}{126}" paraid="186759287" >Kohli, who recorded a duck in the first T20I against England, said he shifted his focus back on the basics of the game after having a chat with former South Africa captain and RCB team-mate AB de Villiers before the match.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{6f5662ee-a240-4d3e-b58b-bd67f11c1b30}{126}" paraid="186759287" ><strong>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></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{98da5294-18fe-4ec8-a544-25565e9b5a7f}{11}" paraid="971783317" >“I had to shift the focus back to the basics of the game and I always take pride in doing the job for the team. Just kept my eyes on the ball and my wife is here and she keeps telling me a lot of things about what I need to do. We have great management that keeps us in the right space. And&nbsp;also&nbsp;I had a special chat with ABD before the start of the game and he just told me to watch the ball. That's exactly what I did,” Kohli said in the post-match presentation.&nbsp;</p>


Virat Kohli continues to shatter the record books as on Sunday the Indian skipper became the first-ever player to score 3000 international runs following his unbeaten 73 off 49 deliveries in the second T20I against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Virat Kohli continues to shatter the record books as on Sunday the Indian skipper became the first-ever player to score 3000 international runs following his unbeaten 73 off 49 deliveries in the second T20I against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Courtesy half-centuries by debutant Ishan Kishan and Kohli, India chased down a target of 165 runs in 17.5 overs to equalise the five-match series 1-1. Kohli, who was 72 runs away from the iconic landmark of scoring 3000 T20I runs, hammered an unbeaten 73 to become the first-ever player to amass 3000 T20I runs. The Indian skipper finished the match off in style with two glorious strokes – a flicked boundary and a pulled six off Chris Jordan. ALSO READ: 'The problem in that first game...': Michael Atherton explains what helped Virat Kohli roar back to form The Indian skipper now has scored 6001 runs in 87 T20Is since making his debut in Zimbabwe in 2010. He now is the only player to have an average of 50+ in all three formats of the game. Moreover, Kohli is also the leading run-scorer in the Indian Premier League (IPL) with as many as 5878 runs in 192 matches. Kohli, who recorded a duck in the first T20I against England, said he shifted his focus back on the basics of the game after having a chat with former South Africa captain and RCB team-mate AB de Villiers before the match. ALSO READ: 'The problem in that first game...': Michael Atherton explains what helped Virat Kohli roar back to form “I had to shift the focus back to the basics of the game and I always take pride in doing the job for the team. Just kept my eyes on the ball and my wife is here and she keeps telling me a lot of things about what I need to do. We have great management that keeps us in the right space. And also I had a special chat with ABD before the start of the game and he just told me to watch the ball. That's exactly what I did,” Kohli said in the post-match presentation.

Record-breaking Virat Kohli achieves iconic milestone in T20I cricket

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{854d2974-4ef5-4a86-b2b1-fe5368bb7f33}{222}" paraid="1100566251" >Brazilian legend Pele on Sunday congratulated Cristiano Ronaldo on “breaking his record" of goals scored in official matches after the Portuguese stalwart netted a hat-trick for Juventus in a 3-1 win over Cagliari in Serie A to complete a whopping 770 goals.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{1594ea42-81ce-4305-bd78-0c212f3d8bed}{244}" paraid="1251801025" >Ronaldo, took to the photo-blogging platform Instagram, as he said that he could now claim the record while adding he could have never dreamed of breaking Pele's record. Ronaldo had matched Pele's record of 767 goals on March 2.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{0e3abfc0-8ec2-427b-b5f1-f81663ee7b86}{188}" paraid="1840530280" >"I'm filled with joy and pride as I acknowledge the goal that puts me on top of the World's goalscoring list, overcoming Pele’s record, something that I could never have dreamed of while growing up as a child from Madeira," Ronaldo wrote.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Pele, 80, wrote on Instagram that he admires Ronaldo a lot and love watching him play. The Brazilian great added that his only regret is not being able to give Ronaldo a hug today.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{0e3abfc0-8ec2-427b-b5f1-f81663ee7b86}{199}" paraid="15250372" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ronaldo-hits-back-with-hat-trick-inter-extend-lead-370556" hreflang="en">Ronaldo hits back with hat-trick, Inter extend lead</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{854d2974-4ef5-4a86-b2b1-fe5368bb7f33}{51}" paraid="1474119654" >Brazilian great Pele, 80, wrote on Instagram to his 5.8 million followers: "Congratulations on breaking my record of goals in official matches.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{854d2974-4ef5-4a86-b2b1-fe5368bb7f33}{60}" paraid="953346589" >"I admire you a lot, I love watching you play and this is no secret to anyone.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{854d2974-4ef5-4a86-b2b1-fe5368bb7f33}{69}" paraid="1237677037" >"My only regret is not being able to give you a hug today."&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{854d2974-4ef5-4a86-b2b1-fe5368bb7f33}{78}" paraid="1545818984" >"Cristiano life is a solo flight. Each makes his own journey. And what a beautiful journey you are having!"&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Pele, who is the only player in football history to win three World Cups – has claimed to have scored a total of 1,283 goals including the ones in unofficial matches.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{006729b8-483b-4b6d-a376-ae9c03e8d832}{159}" paraid="695187293" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/arsenal-beat-10-man-tottenham-man-utd-hold-off-west-ham-370553" hreflang="en">Arsenal beat 10-man Tottenham, Man Utd hold off West Ham</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{973a9afb-bcaf-4e64-8d2d-1124376f4a7d}{92}" paraid="478824863" >Whereas, Ronaldo's tally&nbsp;includes&nbsp;668 for his club sides&nbsp;- five with Sporting Lisbon, 118 for Manchester United, 450 for Real Madrid and 95 for Juventus. He has also scored 120 for Portugal.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{0129c31d-1ec0-4097-a43b-32de01edee65}{29}" paraid="1879865700" >However, social media has put Czech legend Josef Bican on 805 goals, ahead of both Ronaldo and Pele.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{2a0af23d-9a90-4523-b95d-ccfbd8d47e46}{242}" paraid="113076049" >Former Brazilian striker Romario also claims to have scored 1,000 career goals including unofficial matches. Other sources attribute 772 to him.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{854d2974-4ef5-4a86-b2b1-fe5368bb7f33}{1}" paraid="523811361" >(With AFP inputs)&nbsp;</p>


Brazilian legend Pele on Sunday congratulated Cristiano Ronaldo on “breaking his record" of goals scored in official matches after the Portuguese stalwart netted a hat-trick for Juventus in a 3-1 win over Cagliari in Serie A to complete a whopping 770 goals.

Brazilian legend Pele on Sunday congratulated Cristiano Ronaldo on “breaking his record" of goals scored in official matches after the Portuguese stalwart netted a hat-trick for Juventus in a 3-1 win over Cagliari in Serie A to complete a whopping 770 goals. Ronaldo, took to the photo-blogging platform Instagram, as he said that he could now claim the record while adding he could have never dreamed of breaking Pele's record. Ronaldo had matched Pele's record of 767 goals on March 2. "I'm filled with joy and pride as I acknowledge the goal that puts me on top of the World's goalscoring list, overcoming Pele’s record, something that I could never have dreamed of while growing up as a child from Madeira," Ronaldo wrote. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Cristiano Ronaldo (@cristiano) × Pele, 80, wrote on Instagram that he admires Ronaldo a lot and love watching him play. The Brazilian great added that his only regret is not being able to give Ronaldo a hug today. ALSO READ: Ronaldo hits back with hat-trick, Inter extend lead Brazilian great Pele, 80, wrote on Instagram to his 5.8 million followers: "Congratulations on breaking my record of goals in official matches. "I admire you a lot, I love watching you play and this is no secret to anyone. "My only regret is not being able to give you a hug today." "Cristiano life is a solo flight. Each makes his own journey. And what a beautiful journey you are having!" View this post on Instagram A post shared by Pelé (@pele) × Pele, who is the only player in football history to win three World Cups – has claimed to have scored a total of 1,283 goals including the ones in unofficial matches. ALSO READ: Arsenal beat 10-man Tottenham, Man Utd hold off West Ham Whereas, Ronaldo's tally includes 668 for his club sides - five with Sporting Lisbon, 118 for Manchester United, 450 for Real Madrid and 95 for Juventus. He has also scored 120 for Portugal. However, social media has put Czech legend Josef Bican on 805 goals, ahead of both Ronaldo and Pele. Former Brazilian striker Romario also claims to have scored 1,000 career goals including unofficial matches. Other sources attribute 772 to him. (With AFP inputs)

'I admire you a lot': Pele congratulates Cristiano Ronaldo for breaking his goal record

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{93825dd0-1580-4658-b889-89d40a4d4127}{161}" paraid="223267855" >Former England cricketer Michael Atherton has&nbsp;analysed&nbsp;what helped Virat Kohli roar back into form during the second T20I against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad where the Indian skipper scored an unbeaten 73 off 49 deliveries to help India&nbsp;equalise&nbsp;the five-match series 1-1 on Sunday.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{2781690b-3cd2-4103-8e3f-8601787894fa}{244}" paraid="1250896145" >Kohli was dismissed for a duck in the first T20I and fans and pundits had started to worry about Indian skipper's dip in form. However, the swashbuckling batsman looked at his best as he hammered the England bowlers all over the park to seal a comprehensive win for the hosts.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{65cbedbf-ac8a-4209-8a43-d8cb674dba11}{81}" paraid="1681488008" >Atherton reckons Kohli was helped out by the debutant Ishan Kishan, who smashed 56 runs off 32 deliveries to lay the platform for India. The former England cricketer said that&nbsp;Ishan's blistering knock took the pressure off Kohli and helped him play his natural game.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{50eb8665-0470-4f2e-a685-b888f0b1bf90}{227}" paraid="1531004164" >"I think Virat felt under a little bit of pressure in that first game because of what he'd said in the press conference about India playing a slightly more aggressive game," the former England skipper told Sky Sports.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{50eb8665-0470-4f2e-a685-b888f0b1bf90}{227}" paraid="1531004164" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kohli-kishan-help-india-register-convincing-win-over-england-in-2nd-t20i-370454" hreflang="en">Kohli, Kishan help India register convincing win over England in 2nd T20I</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{7e4cb9c7-85c7-4370-8198-359366454dd6}{140}" paraid="1449013881" >"The problem in that first game, with the line-up that India had was that they had quite a lot of similar players in the top-order and I think Kohli felt pressured. 'I've talked the talk, let's walk it now' and it's not really his game.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{7e4cb9c7-85c7-4370-8198-359366454dd6}{147}" paraid="1788877336" >"He's (Kohli) an elite player and scores very quickly but not like a (Rishabh) Pant or, indeed, an Ishan Kishan.&nbsp;So&nbsp;when that young man came in and played the way that he did, I think that just allowed Kohli to come in and play his natural game," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{7e4cb9c7-85c7-4370-8198-359366454dd6}{154}" paraid="1727745235" >"He's not playing the type of shot he got out to the other day, where he is backing away and trying to manufacture something. He's just playing a more orthodox type of innings for him, even though he's still striking quickly and getting those fast hands through the ball in those leg-side shots that he plays so well," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{7e4cb9c7-85c7-4370-8198-359366454dd6}{168}" paraid="68276814" >"I definitely felt this was a more Kohli-like performance than in the first game," Atherton signed off.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{7e4cb9c7-85c7-4370-8198-359366454dd6}{168}" paraid="68276814" ><strong>ALSO WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/england-favourites-to-win-t20-world-cup-virat-kohli-369784" hreflang="en">England favourites to win T20 World Cup: Virat Kohli</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{32613a47-8ca7-4c23-82b2-d4651d95c85d}{112}" paraid="673705148" >Kohli, after the seven-wicket win in the second T20I against England, lauded Ishan's fearless knock as he said he is a calculated character and is not restless.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{32613a47-8ca7-4c23-82b2-d4651d95c85d}{75}" paraid="981971495" >“I tried to do what I can but he kept following his instincts and it was a quality innings on debut. When you play in the IPL with such dominance like he has and he is a fearless character and he knew that he was hitting the ball well and he is very calculated and not restless. Today that counterattacking innings from him and that partnership was needed. I had to shift the focus back to the basics of the game and I always take pride in doing the job for the team,” Kohli said in the post-match presentation to the host broadcasters.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{fa4bef8e-dd99-4fe7-83f4-b6cd5c3d02ed}{187}" paraid="1435625984" >India will look to take a lead in the five-T20I series when they play England in the third T20I on Tuesday in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{7e4cb9c7-85c7-4370-8198-359366454dd6}{13}" paraid="738692707" >&nbsp;</p>


Former England cricketer Michael Atherton has analysed what helped Virat Kohli roar back into form during the second T20I against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad where the Indian skipper scored an unbeaten 73 off 49 deliveries to help India equalise the five-match series 1-1 on Sunday.

Former England cricketer Michael Atherton has analysed what helped Virat Kohli roar back into form during the second T20I against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad where the Indian skipper scored an unbeaten 73 off 49 deliveries to help India equalise the five-match series 1-1 on Sunday. Kohli was dismissed for a duck in the first T20I and fans and pundits had started to worry about Indian skipper's dip in form. However, the swashbuckling batsman looked at his best as he hammered the England bowlers all over the park to seal a comprehensive win for the hosts. Atherton reckons Kohli was helped out by the debutant Ishan Kishan, who smashed 56 runs off 32 deliveries to lay the platform for India. The former England cricketer said that Ishan's blistering knock took the pressure off Kohli and helped him play his natural game. "I think Virat felt under a little bit of pressure in that first game because of what he'd said in the press conference about India playing a slightly more aggressive game," the former England skipper told Sky Sports. ALSO READ: Kohli, Kishan help India register convincing win over England in 2nd T20I "The problem in that first game, with the line-up that India had was that they had quite a lot of similar players in the top-order and I think Kohli felt pressured. 'I've talked the talk, let's walk it now' and it's not really his game. "He's (Kohli) an elite player and scores very quickly but not like a (Rishabh) Pant or, indeed, an Ishan Kishan. So when that young man came in and played the way that he did, I think that just allowed Kohli to come in and play his natural game," he added. "He's not playing the type of shot he got out to the other day, where he is backing away and trying to manufacture something. He's just playing a more orthodox type of innings for him, even though he's still striking quickly and getting those fast hands through the ball in those leg-side shots that he plays so well," he said. "I definitely felt this was a more Kohli-like performance than in the first game," Atherton signed off. ALSO WATCH: England favourites to win T20 World Cup: Virat Kohli Kohli, after the seven-wicket win in the second T20I against England, lauded Ishan's fearless knock as he said he is a calculated character and is not restless. “I tried to do what I can but he kept following his instincts and it was a quality innings on debut. When you play in the IPL with such dominance like he has and he is a fearless character and he knew that he was hitting the ball well and he is very calculated and not restless. Today that counterattacking innings from him and that partnership was needed. I had to shift the focus back to the basics of the game and I always take pride in doing the job for the team,” Kohli said in the post-match presentation to the host broadcasters. India will look to take a lead in the five-T20I series when they play England in the third T20I on Tuesday in Ahmedabad.

'The problem in that first game...': Michael Atherton explains what helped Virat Kohli roar back to form

<p>Two seasons ago as Manchester City won the first ever domestic treble of trophies in England, Pep Guardiola branded the possibility of ever doing a quadruple "almost impossible".</p>

<p>A season characterised by injuries, fixture congestion, player fatigue, coronavirus infections, and for City no pre-season, should have made the feat more improbable than ever.</p>

<p>Yet, City remain on course to prove Guardiola's prediction wrong.</p>

<p>A commanding 14-point lead at the top of the Premier League means it is a matter of when not if a third title in four years is sealed.</p>

<p>On Tuesday, Guardiola's men head to Budapest for what should have been the home leg of their Champions League last 16 tie holding a 2-0 first leg advantage over Borussia Monchengladbach.</p>

<p>Next weekend they travel to Everton in the FA Cup quarter-finals, while a League Cup final with Tottenham awaits in April.</p>

<p>City's 23rd win in 24 games in all competitions at Fulham on Saturday exemplified how Guardiola has managed his side into this position.</p>

<p>Fresh from beating Liverpool at Anfield and just one defeat in six games, Fulham were swotted aside 3-0 despite City making seven changes.</p>

<p>That took Guardiola's tally of changes in the Premier League this season to a league high 94.</p>

<p>Kevin De Bruyne, Ilkay Gundogan and Riyad Mahrez were among the star names to spend the full 90 minutes resting on the bench, while Raheem Sterling was not even included in the matchday squad.</p>

<p>"What we have done the last two, three, four months, everybody is involved," said Guardiola.</p>

<p>"Sometimes it is difficult but everyone has to make a contribution to win games and we will arrive at the end of the season fighting as best as possible."</p>

<h2>- Pandemic proof squad -</h2>

<p>As the crunch of a year without fans through the gates due to Covid-19 restrictions has hit even European football's wealthiest clubs, it is perhaps no surprise that backed by Abu Dhabi state wealth, City have proved more pandemic proof.</p>

<p>After being thrashed 5-2 at home by Leicester in their second game of the season, Guardiola was afforded the funds to splash out £62 million ($86 million) on centre-back Ruben Dias from Benfica.</p>

<p>City had already previously spent over £300 million on defenders in Guardiola's reign on Kyle Walker, Benjamin Mendy, Joao Cancelo, Aymeric Laporte, John Stones and Nathan Ake.</p>

<p>On top of the arrivals of Dias and Ake, the signing of Ferran Torres took City's summer spend over £120 million.</p>

<p>But it is Dias' presence that has had a transformational impact.</p>

<p>The Portuguese international is one of the few men Guardiola refuses to rotate, starting all but one Premier League game since he joined the club in September.</p>

<p>Dias has also brought the best out of John Stones after two poor seasons since a starring role at the 2018 World Cup for the England international.</p>

<p>"We all know our roles and responsibilities," said Stones after opening the scoring against Fulham.</p>

<p>"We've all played so many games. We know the squad's rotated because of the schedule or whatever it might be the manager decides."</p>

<p>For all City's domestic success, Guardiola's team selection at the weekend made it perfectly clear that the Champions League remains the priority.</p>

<p>The only major trophy to escape the Catalan since he arrived in Manchester five years ago is the one the club's owners brought him to the club to deliver.</p>

<p>But rarely have City's resources also given them such an advantage in Europe.</p>

<p>With Bayern Munich, Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain still involved in tight title races and Barcelona and Juventus already out of the competition, City can afford the luxury of cruising towards the finishing line in the Premier League, while saving their energy for the Champions League.</p>


Two seasons ago as Manchester City won the first ever domestic treble of trophies in England, Pep Guardiola branded the possibility of ever doing a quadruple "almost impossible".

Two seasons ago as Manchester City won the first ever domestic treble of trophies in England, Pep Guardiola branded the possibility of ever doing a quadruple "almost impossible". A season characterised by injuries, fixture congestion, player fatigue, coronavirus infections, and for City no pre-season, should have made the feat more improbable than ever. Yet, City remain on course to prove Guardiola's prediction wrong. A commanding 14-point lead at the top of the Premier League means it is a matter of when not if a third title in four years is sealed. On Tuesday, Guardiola's men head to Budapest for what should have been the home leg of their Champions League last 16 tie holding a 2-0 first leg advantage over Borussia Monchengladbach. Next weekend they travel to Everton in the FA Cup quarter-finals, while a League Cup final with Tottenham awaits in April. City's 23rd win in 24 games in all competitions at Fulham on Saturday exemplified how Guardiola has managed his side into this position. Fresh from beating Liverpool at Anfield and just one defeat in six games, Fulham were swotted aside 3-0 despite City making seven changes. That took Guardiola's tally of changes in the Premier League this season to a league high 94. Kevin De Bruyne, Ilkay Gundogan and Riyad Mahrez were among the star names to spend the full 90 minutes resting on the bench, while Raheem Sterling was not even included in the matchday squad. "What we have done the last two, three, four months, everybody is involved," said Guardiola. "Sometimes it is difficult but everyone has to make a contribution to win games and we will arrive at the end of the season fighting as best as possible." - Pandemic proof squad - As the crunch of a year without fans through the gates due to Covid-19 restrictions has hit even European football's wealthiest clubs, it is perhaps no surprise that backed by Abu Dhabi state wealth, City have proved more pandemic proof. After being thrashed 5-2 at home by Leicester in their second game of the season, Guardiola was afforded the funds to splash out £62 million ($86 million) on centre-back Ruben Dias from Benfica. City had already previously spent over £300 million on defenders in Guardiola's reign on Kyle Walker, Benjamin Mendy, Joao Cancelo, Aymeric Laporte, John Stones and Nathan Ake. On top of the arrivals of Dias and Ake, the signing of Ferran Torres took City's summer spend over £120 million. But it is Dias' presence that has had a transformational impact. The Portuguese international is one of the few men Guardiola refuses to rotate, starting all but one Premier League game since he joined the club in September. Dias has also brought the best out of John Stones after two poor seasons since a starring role at the 2018 World Cup for the England international. "We all know our roles and responsibilities," said Stones after opening the scoring against Fulham. "We've all played so many games. We know the squad's rotated because of the schedule or whatever it might be the manager decides." For all City's domestic success, Guardiola's team selection at the weekend made it perfectly clear that the Champions League remains the priority. The only major trophy to escape the Catalan since he arrived in Manchester five years ago is the one the club's owners brought him to the club to deliver. But rarely have City's resources also given them such an advantage in Europe. With Bayern Munich, Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain still involved in tight title races and Barcelona and Juventus already out of the competition, City can afford the luxury of cruising towards the finishing line in the Premier League, while saving their energy for the Champions League.

Man City's rich resources make 'impossible' quadruple quest a reality

<p>Cristiano Ronaldo hit back at his critics with a quick-fire hat-trick as Juventus brushed aside Cagliari 3-1 on Sunday, five days after their Champions League elimination, while Inter Milan moved nine points clear at the Serie A summit.</p>

<p>Portuguese star Ronaldo bore the brunt of the criticism for Juve's latest European flop after failing to score in either leg of the last-16 defeat by Porto, while also being partly at fault for what proved to be the winning goal.</p>

<p>But the 36-year-old scored a header after less than nine minutes at the Sardegna Arena, added a second from the penalty spot, and completed a 'perfect' treble on 32 minutes with a fine left-footed strike.</p>

<p>Defending champions Juventus are 10 points behind Inter Milan, who beat Torino 2-1 earlier Sunday, but with a game in hand.</p>

<p>Andrea Pirlo's side pulled just one point behind second-placed AC Milan, who host Napoli later Sunday, as they try to keep their push for a 10th consecutive Scudetto alive.</p>

<p>Ronaldo broke the deadlock early on, rising high to nod in a Juan Cuadrado corner.</p>

<p>But he could have been sent off after a quarter of an hour, receiving only a yellow card for dangerous play as his boot struck Cagliari goalkeeper Alessio Cragno in the face while attempting to meet a Federico Chiesa cross.</p>

<p>Ronaldo's second came from the penalty spot in the 24th minute after being brought down by Cragno.</p>

<p>He completed the 57th treble of his career when he collected Chiesa's pass and blasted a left-footed strike into the Cagliari net, at the only stadium in the Italian top flight where he had not previously scored.</p>

<p>Ronaldo is the leading scorer in Serie A with 23 goals this season, ahead of Inter's Romelu Lukaku, who has 19.</p>

<p>It was his third hat-trick for Juventus since joining in 2018, after also putting three past Cagliari in the league last season and in the Champions League against Atletico Madrid in 2019.</p>

<p>Before kick-off, Juventus chief football officer Fabio Paratici dismissed talk about Ronaldo's future.</p>

<p>"It makes me laugh. I would never have imagined discussing the value of Cristiano Ronaldo," said Paratici.</p>

<p>"It's a privilege to have him with us, he's part of our future."</p>

<p>Cagliari, two points above the relegation zone, pulled a goal back through Giovanni Simeone in the 61st minute.</p>

<h2>- Martinez pulls Inter clear -</h2>

<p>Lautaro Martinez scored a brilliant 85th-minute winner for Inter in a tight game against 18th-placed Torino.</p>

<p>Antonio Conte's Inter once again needed their strike duo of Lukaku and Martinez to find a way to win in Turin.</p>

<p>Christian Eriksen came off the bench on 56 minutes and had an immediate impact, playing a part in the move which resulted in Torino defender Armando Izzo fouling Martinez in the penalty area.</p>

<p>Lukaku fired home the resulting spot-kick in the 62nd minute.</p>

<p>Inter looked to be wobbling when Antonio Sanabria pulled Torino level eight minutes later, finishing off goalmouth scramble.</p>

<p>But Martinez snatched the victory by getting his head to an Alexis Sanchez cross for his 14th league goal this term.</p>

<p>Inter stretched their winning run to eight matches to move further ahead of AC Milan.</p>

<p>"Victories like these are crucial," said Inter assistant coach Cristian Stellini, with Antonio Conte serving a touchline ban.</p>

<p>"The three points were also vital for Torino who gave little away."</p>

<p>Injury-hit Roma dropped to fifth, two points behind Atalanta and the Champions League berths after falling 2-0 at 19th-placed Parma who earned their first win since November 30.</p>

<p>Valentin Mihaila opened the scoring on nine minutes following a cross from fellow Romanian Dennis Man.</p>

<p>Hernani added a second from the spot in the second half to secure a valuable win which moves Parma a point behind Torino, who have played two games fewer because of a coronavirus outbreak, and three from safety.</p>


Cristiano Ronaldo hit back at his critics with a quick-fire hat-trick as Juventus brushed aside Cagliari 3-1 on Sunday, five days after their Champions League elimination, while Inter Milan moved nine points clear at the Serie A summit.

Cristiano Ronaldo hit back at his critics with a quick-fire hat-trick as Juventus brushed aside Cagliari 3-1 on Sunday, five days after their Champions League elimination, while Inter Milan moved nine points clear at the Serie A summit. Portuguese star Ronaldo bore the brunt of the criticism for Juve's latest European flop after failing to score in either leg of the last-16 defeat by Porto, while also being partly at fault for what proved to be the winning goal. But the 36-year-old scored a header after less than nine minutes at the Sardegna Arena, added a second from the penalty spot, and completed a 'perfect' treble on 32 minutes with a fine left-footed strike. Defending champions Juventus are 10 points behind Inter Milan, who beat Torino 2-1 earlier Sunday, but with a game in hand. Andrea Pirlo's side pulled just one point behind second-placed AC Milan, who host Napoli later Sunday, as they try to keep their push for a 10th consecutive Scudetto alive. Ronaldo broke the deadlock early on, rising high to nod in a Juan Cuadrado corner. But he could have been sent off after a quarter of an hour, receiving only a yellow card for dangerous play as his boot struck Cagliari goalkeeper Alessio Cragno in the face while attempting to meet a Federico Chiesa cross. Ronaldo's second came from the penalty spot in the 24th minute after being brought down by Cragno. He completed the 57th treble of his career when he collected Chiesa's pass and blasted a left-footed strike into the Cagliari net, at the only stadium in the Italian top flight where he had not previously scored. Ronaldo is the leading scorer in Serie A with 23 goals this season, ahead of Inter's Romelu Lukaku, who has 19. It was his third hat-trick for Juventus since joining in 2018, after also putting three past Cagliari in the league last season and in the Champions League against Atletico Madrid in 2019. Before kick-off, Juventus chief football officer Fabio Paratici dismissed talk about Ronaldo's future. "It makes me laugh. I would never have imagined discussing the value of Cristiano Ronaldo," said Paratici. "It's a privilege to have him with us, he's part of our future." Cagliari, two points above the relegation zone, pulled a goal back through Giovanni Simeone in the 61st minute. - Martinez pulls Inter clear - Lautaro Martinez scored a brilliant 85th-minute winner for Inter in a tight game against 18th-placed Torino. Antonio Conte's Inter once again needed their strike duo of Lukaku and Martinez to find a way to win in Turin. Christian Eriksen came off the bench on 56 minutes and had an immediate impact, playing a part in the move which resulted in Torino defender Armando Izzo fouling Martinez in the penalty area. Lukaku fired home the resulting spot-kick in the 62nd minute. Inter looked to be wobbling when Antonio Sanabria pulled Torino level eight minutes later, finishing off goalmouth scramble. But Martinez snatched the victory by getting his head to an Alexis Sanchez cross for his 14th league goal this term. Inter stretched their winning run to eight matches to move further ahead of AC Milan. "Victories like these are crucial," said Inter assistant coach Cristian Stellini, with Antonio Conte serving a touchline ban. "The three points were also vital for Torino who gave little away." Injury-hit Roma dropped to fifth, two points behind Atalanta and the Champions League berths after falling 2-0 at 19th-placed Parma who earned their first win since November 30. Valentin Mihaila opened the scoring on nine minutes following a cross from fellow Romanian Dennis Man. Hernani added a second from the spot in the second half to secure a valuable win which moves Parma a point behind Torino, who have played two games fewer because of a coronavirus outbreak, and three from safety.

Ronaldo hits back with hat-trick, Inter extend lead

<p>World champion Lewis Hamilton saw Max Verstappen top the times in Formula One testing on Sunday and predicted the Dutch star's Red Bull team will be "a different animal" when the season starts in two weeks' time.</p>

<p>Verstappen, who was third behind Hamilton and the Briton's Mercedes teammate Valtteri Bottas in the 2020 championship, timed a best lap of 1:28.960 on Sunday.</p>

<p>That proved to be the fastest time of the three-day session.</p>

<p>However, rookie Yuki Tsunoda, the first Japanese driver to compete in Formula One since Kamui Kobayashi in 2014, also laid down a marker.</p>

<p>His time on Sunday of 1:29.053 in his AlphaTauri was the second best overall of the week.</p>

<p>Verstappen had also topped the charts on Friday on the opening day at the dusty Sakhir circuit which will also stage the season opener on March 28.</p>

<p>"They are looking strong," said seven-time champion Hamilton.</p>

<p>"They're going to be a different machine or animal this year with, I think, a really good, strong line-up for two drivers and a really good car."</p>

<p>However, Hamilton insisted he was unconcerned as Verstappen had won the last race of 2020 in Abu Dhabi and had momentum on his side.</p>

<p>"Having seen them winning the last race you can only assume they're going to be right there if not at the front, at the first race.</p>

<p>"It's going to be a great, long battle with them through the year," he added.</p>

<p>Verstappen, too, was keen to douse expectations that this could be the year that Red Bull break Mercedes' stranglehold.</p>

<p>"I don't think we are the favourites," Verstappen said.</p>

<p>Carlos Sainz, in a Ferrari, Alfa Romeo's Kimi Raikkonen and Hamilton rounded out the top five on Sunday in what also proved to be their top times of the week.</p>

<h2>Third and final day times:</h2>

<p>1. Max Verstappen (NED/Red Bull-Honda) 1:28.960 (64 laps), 2. Yuki Tsunoda (JPN/Alpha Tauri-Honda) 1:29.053 (91), 3. Carlos Sainz (ESP/Ferrari) 1:29.611 (79), 4. Kimi Raikkonen (ITA/Alfa Romeo-Ferrari) 1:29.766 (166), 5. Lewis Hamilton (GBR/Mercedes) 1:30.025 (54), 6. George Russell (GBR/Williams-Mercedes) 1:30.117 (158), 7. Daniel Ricciardo (AUS/McLaren-Mercedes) 1:30.144 (76), 8. Sergio Perez (MEX/Red Bull-Honda) 1:30.187 (49), 9. Fernando Alonso (ESP/Alpine-Renault) 1:30.318 (128), 10. Charles Leclerc (MON/Ferrari) 1:30.486 (80), 11. Lando Norris (GBR/McLaren-Mercedes) 1:30.661 (56), 12. Pierre Gasly (FRA/Alpha Tauri-Honda) 1:30.828 (76), 13. Esteban Ocon (FRA-Alpine/Renault) 1:31.310 (61), 14. Nikita Mazepin (RUS/Haas-Ferrari) 1:31.531 (67), 15. Mick Schumacher (GER/Haas-Ferrari) 1:32.053 (78), 16. Valtteri Bottas (FIN/Mercedes) 1:32.406 (86), 17. Sebastian Vettel (GER/Aston Martin-Mercedes) 1:35.041 (56), 18. Lance Stroll (CAN/Aston Martin-Mercedes) 1:36.100 (80)</p>


World champion Lewis Hamilton saw Max Verstappen top the times in Formula One testing on Sunday and predicted the Dutch star's Red Bull team will be "a different animal" when the season starts in two weeks' time.

World champion Lewis Hamilton saw Max Verstappen top the times in Formula One testing on Sunday and predicted the Dutch star's Red Bull team will be "a different animal" when the season starts in two weeks' time. Verstappen, who was third behind Hamilton and the Briton's Mercedes teammate Valtteri Bottas in the 2020 championship, timed a best lap of 1:28.960 on Sunday. That proved to be the fastest time of the three-day session. However, rookie Yuki Tsunoda, the first Japanese driver to compete in Formula One since Kamui Kobayashi in 2014, also laid down a marker. His time on Sunday of 1:29.053 in his AlphaTauri was the second best overall of the week. Verstappen had also topped the charts on Friday on the opening day at the dusty Sakhir circuit which will also stage the season opener on March 28. "They are looking strong," said seven-time champion Hamilton. "They're going to be a different machine or animal this year with, I think, a really good, strong line-up for two drivers and a really good car." However, Hamilton insisted he was unconcerned as Verstappen had won the last race of 2020 in Abu Dhabi and had momentum on his side. "Having seen them winning the last race you can only assume they're going to be right there if not at the front, at the first race. "It's going to be a great, long battle with them through the year," he added. Verstappen, too, was keen to douse expectations that this could be the year that Red Bull break Mercedes' stranglehold. "I don't think we are the favourites," Verstappen said. Carlos Sainz, in a Ferrari, Alfa Romeo's Kimi Raikkonen and Hamilton rounded out the top five on Sunday in what also proved to be their top times of the week. Third and final day times: 1. Max Verstappen (NED/Red Bull-Honda) 1:28.960 (64 laps), 2. Yuki Tsunoda (JPN/Alpha Tauri-Honda) 1:29.053 (91), 3. Carlos Sainz (ESP/Ferrari) 1:29.611 (79), 4. Kimi Raikkonen (ITA/Alfa Romeo-Ferrari) 1:29.766 (166), 5. Lewis Hamilton (GBR/Mercedes) 1:30.025 (54), 6. George Russell (GBR/Williams-Mercedes) 1:30.117 (158), 7. Daniel Ricciardo (AUS/McLaren-Mercedes) 1:30.144 (76), 8. Sergio Perez (MEX/Red Bull-Honda) 1:30.187 (49), 9. Fernando Alonso (ESP/Alpine-Renault) 1:30.318 (128), 10. Charles Leclerc (MON/Ferrari) 1:30.486 (80), 11. Lando Norris (GBR/McLaren-Mercedes) 1:30.661 (56), 12. Pierre Gasly (FRA/Alpha Tauri-Honda) 1:30.828 (76), 13. Esteban Ocon (FRA-Alpine/Renault) 1:31.310 (61), 14. Nikita Mazepin (RUS/Haas-Ferrari) 1:31.531 (67), 15. Mick Schumacher (GER/Haas-Ferrari) 1:32.053 (78), 16. Valtteri Bottas (FIN/Mercedes) 1:32.406 (86), 17. Sebastian Vettel (GER/Aston Martin-Mercedes) 1:35.041 (56), 18. Lance Stroll (CAN/Aston Martin-Mercedes) 1:36.100 (80)

'Different animal' Verstappen tops F1 testing as Tsunoda makes mark

<p>Arsenal bounced back from Erik Lamela's stunning Rabona to open the scoring in the north London derby to beat Tottenham 2-1 on Sunday, as Manchester United and Leicester tightened their grip on a top-four finish in the Premier League.</p>

<p>United edged out fifth-placed West Ham 1-0 thanks to Craig Dawson's own goal to remain a point ahead of Leicester, who thrashed bottom-of-the-table Sheffield United 5-0.</p>

<p>On a costly afternoon for Spurs' hopes of a top-four finish, Tottenham also lost Son Heung-min to a hamstring injury at the Emirates, while Lamela went from hero to villain for the visitors with a needless second-half red card.</p>

<p>Arsenal's afternoon did not start well with captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang dropped to the bench for a breach of discipline, reportedly after turning up late for the squad's pre-match meeting.</p>

<p>Lamela was introduced to replace Son early on and the Argentine opened the scoring in sensational style against the run of play as he wrapped his left foot around his right to fire into the bottom corner.</p>

<p>Emile Smith Rowe and Cedric Soares hit the woodwork either side of Lamela's strike but the hosts finally got their reward for a dominant first-half performance when Martin Odegaard's shot deflected in off Toby Alderweireld for his first Premier League goal.</p>

<p>"I think we played really bad in the first half," said Spurs boss Jose Mourinho. "The 1-1 was not a fair reflection of the first half. We were poor, defending bad, no intensity, no pressing, some important players hiding."</p>

<p>Alexandre Lacazette captained the Gunners in Aubameyang's absence and also took the Gabon international's duties from the penalty spot after the French striker was brought down by Davinson Sanchez inside the area.</p>

<p>Lacazette sent his international teammate Hugo Lloris the wrong way from the spot to claim a much-needed win to keep Arsenal's slim hopes of finishing in the top four alive.</p>

<p>Lamela was given his marching orders 15 minutes from time for a second bookable offence.</p>

<p>Despite their numerical disadvantage, though, Tottenham's best spell came with 10 men as Harry Kane had a goal ruled out for offside before the England captain hit the post and Sanchez's follow-up effort was cleared off the line by Gabriel Magalhaes.</p>

<p>"The last 10 minutes was the worst we've played," said Arteta. "We could not manage the game, we could not manage the tension."</p>

<p>Arteta's side are now 10 points behind fourth-placed Chelsea with a game in hand, while Spurs remain six points behind the Blues in seventh.</p>

<h2>- More Man Utd misery for Moyes -</h2>

<p>West Ham missed the chance to move into the top four as former Man Utd boss David Moyes remains winless in 15 visits to Old Trafford as the opposition manager.</p>

<p>The Hammers' conservative approach was punished by one moment of misfortune eight minutes into the second half as Dawson turned a Bruno Fernandes corner into his own net.</p>

<p>Mason Greenwood also hit the post either side of half-time for United, who close the gap on runaway league leaders Manchester City to 14 points.</p>

<p>"It was a big weekend for us," said Solskjaer as Chelsea and Everton also lost ground in the top-four race on Saturday.</p>

<p>"This is a big three points because we know West Ham are challenging to get into the top four."</p>

<p>Kelechi Iheanacho scored a hat-trick as Leicester showed no mercy against the Blades in their first match since manager Chris Wilder departed on Saturday.</p>

<p>Iheanacho opened the floodgates seven minutes before half-time with a close-range finish from Jamie Vardy's pass after a flowing move.</p>

<p>Ayoze Perez's fine strike from the edge of the area 26 minutes from time doubled the Foxes' lead before Iheanacho produced two more fine finishes to take his tally to five goals in three games.</p>

<p>Ethan Ampadu's own goal sealed the rout for Brendan Rodgers' side, who now enjoy an eight-point cushion over West Ham.</p>

<p>In the battle to beat the drop, Brighton edged three points clear of third-bottom Fulham with a game in hand by winning a frenetic south-coast derby 2-1 over Southampton thanks to goals from Lewis Dunk and Leandro Trossard.</p>


Arsenal bounced back from Erik Lamela's stunning Rabona to open the scoring in the north London derby to beat Tottenham 2-1 on Sunday, as Manchester United and Leicester tightened their grip on a top-four finish in the Premier League.

Arsenal bounced back from Erik Lamela's stunning Rabona to open the scoring in the north London derby to beat Tottenham 2-1 on Sunday, as Manchester United and Leicester tightened their grip on a top-four finish in the Premier League. United edged out fifth-placed West Ham 1-0 thanks to Craig Dawson's own goal to remain a point ahead of Leicester, who thrashed bottom-of-the-table Sheffield United 5-0. On a costly afternoon for Spurs' hopes of a top-four finish, Tottenham also lost Son Heung-min to a hamstring injury at the Emirates, while Lamela went from hero to villain for the visitors with a needless second-half red card. Arsenal's afternoon did not start well with captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang dropped to the bench for a breach of discipline, reportedly after turning up late for the squad's pre-match meeting. Lamela was introduced to replace Son early on and the Argentine opened the scoring in sensational style against the run of play as he wrapped his left foot around his right to fire into the bottom corner. Emile Smith Rowe and Cedric Soares hit the woodwork either side of Lamela's strike but the hosts finally got their reward for a dominant first-half performance when Martin Odegaard's shot deflected in off Toby Alderweireld for his first Premier League goal. "I think we played really bad in the first half," said Spurs boss Jose Mourinho. "The 1-1 was not a fair reflection of the first half. We were poor, defending bad, no intensity, no pressing, some important players hiding." Alexandre Lacazette captained the Gunners in Aubameyang's absence and also took the Gabon international's duties from the penalty spot after the French striker was brought down by Davinson Sanchez inside the area. Lacazette sent his international teammate Hugo Lloris the wrong way from the spot to claim a much-needed win to keep Arsenal's slim hopes of finishing in the top four alive. Lamela was given his marching orders 15 minutes from time for a second bookable offence. Despite their numerical disadvantage, though, Tottenham's best spell came with 10 men as Harry Kane had a goal ruled out for offside before the England captain hit the post and Sanchez's follow-up effort was cleared off the line by Gabriel Magalhaes. "The last 10 minutes was the worst we've played," said Arteta. "We could not manage the game, we could not manage the tension." Arteta's side are now 10 points behind fourth-placed Chelsea with a game in hand, while Spurs remain six points behind the Blues in seventh. - More Man Utd misery for Moyes - West Ham missed the chance to move into the top four as former Man Utd boss David Moyes remains winless in 15 visits to Old Trafford as the opposition manager. The Hammers' conservative approach was punished by one moment of misfortune eight minutes into the second half as Dawson turned a Bruno Fernandes corner into his own net. Mason Greenwood also hit the post either side of half-time for United, who close the gap on runaway league leaders Manchester City to 14 points. "It was a big weekend for us," said Solskjaer as Chelsea and Everton also lost ground in the top-four race on Saturday. "This is a big three points because we know West Ham are challenging to get into the top four." Kelechi Iheanacho scored a hat-trick as Leicester showed no mercy against the Blades in their first match since manager Chris Wilder departed on Saturday. Iheanacho opened the floodgates seven minutes before half-time with a close-range finish from Jamie Vardy's pass after a flowing move. Ayoze Perez's fine strike from the edge of the area 26 minutes from time doubled the Foxes' lead before Iheanacho produced two more fine finishes to take his tally to five goals in three games. Ethan Ampadu's own goal sealed the rout for Brendan Rodgers' side, who now enjoy an eight-point cushion over West Ham. In the battle to beat the drop, Brighton edged three points clear of third-bottom Fulham with a game in hand by winning a frenetic south-coast derby 2-1 over Southampton thanks to goals from Lewis Dunk and Leandro Trossard.

Arsenal beat 10-man Tottenham, Man Utd hold off West Ham

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