Competitors at this year's Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics and the 2022 Beijing Winter Games will be offered coronavirus vaccines purchased from China, Olympic chief Thomas Bach announced Thursday in a significant move for the holding of the Covid-delayed Tokyo Games.

The Chinese Olympic Committee have made "an offer to make additional vaccine doses available to participants for Tokyo 2020 and Beijing 2022", Bach said.

"The IOC will pay for these additional doses of vaccines for the Olympic and Paralympic teams," he added.

"The IOC will also pay for two doses more that can be made available to people in that country," Bach said, describing it as a "demonstration of solidarity" in the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Tokyo Games were originally scheduled for the summer of 2020, but were pushed back by one year as the coronavirus pandemic raged across the globe.

Bach has said there is "no reason to doubt" that the Games would open on July 23, but the promise of vaccination could help to allay competitors' fears.

Around 11,000 athletes are expected at the Tokyo Olympics and 3,000 at the Beijing Games, with 4,000 and around 500 for the respective Summer and Winter Paralympics.

Tellingly none of the IOC members who took the virtual floor on day two of the 137th IOC Session questioned the moral minefield of athletes jumping the vaccine queue.

Also avoided was the potential political hot potato of buying the Chinese vaccines as Beijing comes under increasing fire from rights groups and some governments amid claims that actions towards the Uighur and other minority groups in the northwestern region of Xinjiang amount to genocide.

Bach said the Chinese Olympic Committee, in cooperation with the IOC, was ready to make vaccine doses available in two ways.

"This can be via international partners or in countries where partnerships are already in place with the Chinese government," he said, without giving further details.

Bach, who said the IOC had signed up to a World Health Organisation vaccine equity declaration calling on all countries to be administering vaccines by April 7, added that a significant number of Olympic teams "have already been vaccinated".

"Another significant number have received a commitment from their governments or are in very positive discussions."

Tokyo 2020's CEO Toshiro Muto said he had no prior knowledge of the IOC's vaccine plan.

"First of all, did we receive information in advance? No. We had not obtained that information at all," Muto said.

"This is an issue regarding the IOC, so what president Bach was mentioning at the session, we listened to, we heard what he had to say, but I am in no position to make any comments in that regard."

<h2>- No virus spreader -</h2>

Bach also tried to play down the risks to Japan from hosting the Olympics, citing the fact that since September 2020, 270 international competitions had been held involving more than 30,000 athletes who had followed "rigorous health and safety protocols".

"Not a single one of these events turned into a virus spreader," Bach said, adding they had posed no danger to host communities: "It's clean and obvious proof."

Bach was at pains to reiterate that the IOC remains committed to holding a "successful and safe" Games this year, dismissing cancellation talk as "speculation".

Overseas spectators, however, are likely to be shut out, as Japanese organisers prioritise public health and safety.

Tokyo 2020's CEO Muto said that tickets will be refunded should spectators be unable to attend.

"That's a given," added John Coates, head of the IOC's coordination committee for the Tokyo Games, saying he was "mindful of the uncertainty".

James Macleod, the IOC's director of the National Olympic Committee relations department and of Olympic Solidarity, added that the Refugee Olympic Team, which made its debut in Rio in 2016, would feature more than 20 athletes in 10 sports in Tokyo.

Competitors at this year's Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics and the 2022 Beijing Winter Games will be offered coronavirus vaccines purchased from China, Olympic chief Thomas Bach announced Thursday in a significant move for the holding of the Covid-delayed Tokyo Games.

Competitors at this year's Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics and the 2022 Beijing Winter Games will be offered coronavirus vaccines purchased from China, Olympic chief Thomas Bach announced Thursday in a significant move for the holding of the Covid-delayed Tokyo Games. The Chinese Olympic Committee have made "an offer to make additional vaccine doses available to participants for Tokyo 2020 and Beijing 2022", Bach said. "The IOC will pay for these additional doses of vaccines for the Olympic and Paralympic teams," he added. "The IOC will also pay for two doses more that can be made available to people in that country," Bach said, describing it as a "demonstration of solidarity" in the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic. The Tokyo Games were originally scheduled for the summer of 2020, but were pushed back by one year as the coronavirus pandemic raged across the globe. Bach has said there is "no reason to doubt" that the Games would open on July 23, but the promise of vaccination could help to allay competitors' fears. Around 11,000 athletes are expected at the Tokyo Olympics and 3,000 at the Beijing Games, with 4,000 and around 500 for the respective Summer and Winter Paralympics. Tellingly none of the IOC members who took the virtual floor on day two of the 137th IOC Session questioned the moral minefield of athletes jumping the vaccine queue. Also avoided was the potential political hot potato of buying the Chinese vaccines as Beijing comes under increasing fire from rights groups and some governments amid claims that actions towards the Uighur and other minority groups in the northwestern region of Xinjiang amount to genocide. Bach said the Chinese Olympic Committee, in cooperation with the IOC, was ready to make vaccine doses available in two ways. "This can be via international partners or in countries where partnerships are already in place with the Chinese government," he said, without giving further details. Bach, who said the IOC had signed up to a World Health Organisation vaccine equity declaration calling on all countries to be administering vaccines by April 7, added that a significant number of Olympic teams "have already been vaccinated". "Another significant number have received a commitment from their governments or are in very positive discussions." Tokyo 2020's CEO Toshiro Muto said he had no prior knowledge of the IOC's vaccine plan. "First of all, did we receive information in advance? No. We had not obtained that information at all," Muto said. "This is an issue regarding the IOC, so what president Bach was mentioning at the session, we listened to, we heard what he had to say, but I am in no position to make any comments in that regard." - No virus spreader - Bach also tried to play down the risks to Japan from hosting the Olympics, citing the fact that since September 2020, 270 international competitions had been held involving more than 30,000 athletes who had followed "rigorous health and safety protocols". "Not a single one of these events turned into a virus spreader," Bach said, adding they had posed no danger to host communities: "It's clean and obvious proof." Bach was at pains to reiterate that the IOC remains committed to holding a "successful and safe" Games this year, dismissing cancellation talk as "speculation". Overseas spectators, however, are likely to be shut out, as Japanese organisers prioritise public health and safety. Tokyo 2020's CEO Muto said that tickets will be refunded should spectators be unable to attend. "That's a given," added John Coates, head of the IOC's coordination committee for the Tokyo Games, saying he was "mindful of the uncertainty". James Macleod, the IOC's director of the National Olympic Committee relations department and of Olympic Solidarity, added that the Refugee Olympic Team, which made its debut in Rio in 2016, would feature more than 20 athletes in 10 sports in Tokyo.

Tokyo Olympics gets IOC-funded Chinese coronavirus jab

Kraigg Brathwaite will replace Jason Holder as the West Indies Test Captain with a two-Test series against Sri Lanka coming up this month, Cricket West Indies said Thursday.

Brathwaite has previously led the team in seven Tests while deputizing for Holder, including in the recent 2-0 Test Series win away to Bangladesh.

"It is a huge honour to be given the Captaincy of the West Indies Test team," Brathwaite said. "I feel extremely proud and humbled that the Board and Selectors have given me the opportunity and responsibility to lead the team.

"The recent Test Series win in Bangladesh was a fantastic achievement and I'm really looking forward to the upcoming home series against Sri Lanka and I'm excited about what I believe this team can achieve in the future."

The squad for the first Test against Sri Lanka, scheduled for March 21-25, will be announced on Friday.

Roger Harper, CWI lead selector, said selectors were impressed that in Bangladesh Brathwaite "was able to motivate his players to play to a very high level and create the culture we are looking to establish where the team showed a collective determination to fight and a real hunger for success."

Holder, the 29-year-old who was named captain of the Test team in 2015, was one of several players who opted not to tour Bangladesh because of Covid-19 related concerns.

The&nbsp;current number one&nbsp;all-rounder&nbsp;in the ICC&nbsp;Test&nbsp;rankings, Holder captained the West Indies team in 37 Tests, leading the side to 11 wins, five draws and 21 defeats.

"On behalf of CWI, I would like to thank Jason for all he has given to the game in the region while serving as Captain of our Test team," CWI director of cricket Jimmy Adams said. "As the world’s leading Test all-rounder, we all believe that Jason still has a tremendous role to play in West Indies Test Cricket for many years to come."

Kraigg Brathwaite will replace Jason Holder as the West Indies Test Captain with a two-Test series against Sri Lanka coming up this month, Cricket West Indies said Thursday.

Kraigg Brathwaite will replace Jason Holder as the West Indies Test Captain with a two-Test series against Sri Lanka coming up this month, Cricket West Indies said Thursday. Brathwaite has previously led the team in seven Tests while deputizing for Holder, including in the recent 2-0 Test Series win away to Bangladesh. "It is a huge honour to be given the Captaincy of the West Indies Test team," Brathwaite said. "I feel extremely proud and humbled that the Board and Selectors have given me the opportunity and responsibility to lead the team. "The recent Test Series win in Bangladesh was a fantastic achievement and I'm really looking forward to the upcoming home series against Sri Lanka and I'm excited about what I believe this team can achieve in the future." The squad for the first Test against Sri Lanka, scheduled for March 21-25, will be announced on Friday. Roger Harper, CWI lead selector, said selectors were impressed that in Bangladesh Brathwaite "was able to motivate his players to play to a very high level and create the culture we are looking to establish where the team showed a collective determination to fight and a real hunger for success." Holder, the 29-year-old who was named captain of the Test team in 2015, was one of several players who opted not to tour Bangladesh because of Covid-19 related concerns. The current number one all-rounder in the ICC Test rankings, Holder captained the West Indies team in 37 Tests, leading the side to 11 wins, five draws and 21 defeats. "On behalf of CWI, I would like to thank Jason for all he has given to the game in the region while serving as Captain of our Test team," CWI director of cricket Jimmy Adams said. "As the world’s leading Test all-rounder, we all believe that Jason still has a tremendous role to play in West Indies Test Cricket for many years to come."

Brathwaite replaces Holder as Windies Test Captain

Simon Kjaer's last-gasp equaliser gave AC Milan a dramatic 1-1 draw at Manchester United on Thursday, handing the Italians a great chance of reaching the Europa League quarter-finals while Roma, Tottenham and Arsenal cruised closer to the last-eight.

Kjaer netted with a bullet header in the final seconds of stoppage time of the last 16, first leg encounter at Old Trafford, levelling the scores after Amad Diallo had opened in the 50th minute with his first United goal.

"This is a great result, we played really well, showed personality and I think we dominated," the defender told Sky Sport Italia.

Milan called the shots early on and had two goals disallowed, Rafael Leao's effort ruled offside and Franck Kessie's powerful 11th-minute finish chalked off after a VAR review showed the ball had glanced off the midfielder's arm before his shot.

Diallo's introduction at half-time proved an inspired move from United coach Ole Gunnar Solskjaer as the 18-year-old Ivorian, recently bought by United from Milan's Serie A rivals Atalanta, soon broke the deadlock.

Bruno Fernandes unfurled a delightful long pass towards Diallo, who made an incisive run behind the Milan defence and looped a clever backwards header over Gianluigi Donnarumma.

But United failed to build on that lead and Milan's intelligent play was rewarded with just seconds remaining when Kjaer powered his header past Dean Henderson from a corner.

<h2>- Roma, Spurs, and Arsenal cruise -</h2>

Milan's domestic rivals Roma made sure it was a good night for Italian football with a 3-0 win over Shakhtar Donetsk at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome.

Lorenzo Pellegrini prodded home the opener in the 23rd minute after latching on to Pedro's through ball.&nbsp;

Shakhtar pressed for a leveller after the break but quick-fire goals from Stephan El Shaarawy -- his first for Roma since returning from China -- and Gianluca Mancini gave Paulo Fonseca's side a strong lead to defend in the second leg.

The win will have been particularly sweet for Fonseca, who came to Roma from Shakhtar in the summer of 2019.&nbsp;

A Harry Kane double helped Tottenham Hotspur ease to a 2-0 home win over Dinamo Zagreb that continues a good run of form for Jose Mourinho's team.

Spurs have now won their last five matches in all competitions thanks to Thursday's victory in London.

"We had some ups and downs in the season but we come into an important period now and it is good to feel the players are ready to help the team," said Spurs keeper Hugo Lloris.

Arsenal also came away with a win, 3-1 at Olympiakos which all but secures their passage into the quarters.

Martin Odegaard's first Arsenal goal was cancelled out by Youssef El-Arabi.

But two goals in six minutes from Gabriel Magalhaes and substitute Mohamed Elneny earned victory.

Molde's heartening European run looks to have come to an end after a 2-0 defeat at La Liga side Granada.

<h2>- Rangers, Ajax well placed -</h2>

Rangers are well placed to make the quarter-finals after a 1-1 draw away to Slavia Prague.

Filip Helander's close-range finish in the first half levelled Nicolae Stanciu's superb opener and left Steve Gerrard's Rangers still in the hunt for a European trophy with the draw in Prague, days after winning their first Scottish League title in 10 years.

The highlight of the match however was Allan McGregor's stunning save near the end, the Scot somehow stopping and holding on to Lukas Masopust's thumping header, which looked destined for the bottom corner.

"I saw it a wee bit late. It's just one of these things," McGregor told BT Sport.

"You react to it, you stick your hand out and hope it doesn't go in, and it never, so happy days!"

Four-time European champions Ajax are almost guaranteed a place in the last eight after thumping Young Boys 3-0 in Amsterdam through goals from Davy Klaassen, Dusan Tadic and Brian Brobbey.

Villarreal also look good to make the quarters thanks to a 2-0 win at Dynamo Kiev.

Simon Kjaer's last-gasp equaliser gave AC Milan a dramatic 1-1 draw at Manchester United on Thursday, handing the Italians a great chance of reaching the Europa League quarter-finals while Roma, Tottenham and Arsenal cruised closer to the last-eight.

Simon Kjaer's last-gasp equaliser gave AC Milan a dramatic 1-1 draw at Manchester United on Thursday, handing the Italians a great chance of reaching the Europa League quarter-finals while Roma, Tottenham and Arsenal cruised closer to the last-eight. Kjaer netted with a bullet header in the final seconds of stoppage time of the last 16, first leg encounter at Old Trafford, levelling the scores after Amad Diallo had opened in the 50th minute with his first United goal. "This is a great result, we played really well, showed personality and I think we dominated," the defender told Sky Sport Italia. Milan called the shots early on and had two goals disallowed, Rafael Leao's effort ruled offside and Franck Kessie's powerful 11th-minute finish chalked off after a VAR review showed the ball had glanced off the midfielder's arm before his shot. Diallo's introduction at half-time proved an inspired move from United coach Ole Gunnar Solskjaer as the 18-year-old Ivorian, recently bought by United from Milan's Serie A rivals Atalanta, soon broke the deadlock. Bruno Fernandes unfurled a delightful long pass towards Diallo, who made an incisive run behind the Milan defence and looped a clever backwards header over Gianluigi Donnarumma. But United failed to build on that lead and Milan's intelligent play was rewarded with just seconds remaining when Kjaer powered his header past Dean Henderson from a corner. - Roma, Spurs, and Arsenal cruise - Milan's domestic rivals Roma made sure it was a good night for Italian football with a 3-0 win over Shakhtar Donetsk at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome. Lorenzo Pellegrini prodded home the opener in the 23rd minute after latching on to Pedro's through ball. Shakhtar pressed for a leveller after the break but quick-fire goals from Stephan El Shaarawy -- his first for Roma since returning from China -- and Gianluca Mancini gave Paulo Fonseca's side a strong lead to defend in the second leg. The win will have been particularly sweet for Fonseca, who came to Roma from Shakhtar in the summer of 2019. A Harry Kane double helped Tottenham Hotspur ease to a 2-0 home win over Dinamo Zagreb that continues a good run of form for Jose Mourinho's team. Spurs have now won their last five matches in all competitions thanks to Thursday's victory in London. "We had some ups and downs in the season but we come into an important period now and it is good to feel the players are ready to help the team," said Spurs keeper Hugo Lloris. Arsenal also came away with a win, 3-1 at Olympiakos which all but secures their passage into the quarters. Martin Odegaard's first Arsenal goal was cancelled out by Youssef El-Arabi. But two goals in six minutes from Gabriel Magalhaes and substitute Mohamed Elneny earned victory. Molde's heartening European run looks to have come to an end after a 2-0 defeat at La Liga side Granada. - Rangers, Ajax well placed - Rangers are well placed to make the quarter-finals after a 1-1 draw away to Slavia Prague. Filip Helander's close-range finish in the first half levelled Nicolae Stanciu's superb opener and left Steve Gerrard's Rangers still in the hunt for a European trophy with the draw in Prague, days after winning their first Scottish League title in 10 years. The highlight of the match however was Allan McGregor's stunning save near the end, the Scot somehow stopping and holding on to Lukas Masopust's thumping header, which looked destined for the bottom corner. "I saw it a wee bit late. It's just one of these things," McGregor told BT Sport. "You react to it, you stick your hand out and hope it doesn't go in, and it never, so happy days!" Four-time European champions Ajax are almost guaranteed a place in the last eight after thumping Young Boys 3-0 in Amsterdam through goals from Davy Klaassen, Dusan Tadic and Brian Brobbey. Villarreal also look good to make the quarters thanks to a 2-0 win at Dynamo Kiev.

Milan grab Europa League last 16 edge at United as Tottenham, Arsenal shine

Roger Federer on Thursday withdrew from next week's Dubai ATP tournament, claiming "it's best to go back to training" as his comeback from 13 months on the sidelines ended after two matches at the Qatar Open.

The 39-year-old was knocked out of the Doha event by world number 42 Nikoloz Basilashvili of Georgia, squandering a match point in the deciding set.

"It's been great to be back on the @atptour, loved every minute playing in Doha once again," tweeted the 20-time Grand Slam title winner.

"A big thank you to the best and loyal team that helped me get here. I've decided it's best to go back to training and as a result, I've decided to withdraw from Dubai next week."

Federer underwent two knee surgeries last year and was playing his first tournament since a semi-final loss to Novak Djokovic at the Australian Open in January 2020.

He had needed three sets to see off Britain's Dan Evans in his first match in Qatar on Wednesday.

Federer has already said he will skip the opening Masters event of the season in Miami later this month.

That would likely mean the Swiss veteran will play again on the European clay court swing which begins in April.

Earlier Thursday, Federer's long-time rival Rafael Nadal, also the holder of 20 majors, said he had turned down a wild card invitation to the Dubai event as he recovers from a back injury.

Roger Federer on Thursday withdrew from next week's Dubai ATP tournament, claiming "it's best to go back to training" as his comeback from 13 months on the sidelines ended after two matches at the Qatar Open.

Roger Federer on Thursday withdrew from next week's Dubai ATP tournament, claiming "it's best to go back to training" as his comeback from 13 months on the sidelines ended after two matches at the Qatar Open. The 39-year-old was knocked out of the Doha event by world number 42 Nikoloz Basilashvili of Georgia, squandering a match point in the deciding set. "It's been great to be back on the @atptour, loved every minute playing in Doha once again," tweeted the 20-time Grand Slam title winner. "A big thank you to the best and loyal team that helped me get here. I've decided it's best to go back to training and as a result, I've decided to withdraw from Dubai next week." Federer underwent two knee surgeries last year and was playing his first tournament since a semi-final loss to Novak Djokovic at the Australian Open in January 2020. He had needed three sets to see off Britain's Dan Evans in his first match in Qatar on Wednesday. Federer has already said he will skip the opening Masters event of the season in Miami later this month. That would likely mean the Swiss veteran will play again on the European clay court swing which begins in April. Earlier Thursday, Federer's long-time rival Rafael Nadal, also the holder of 20 majors, said he had turned down a wild card invitation to the Dubai event as he recovers from a back injury.

Roger Federer withdraws from Dubai after Qatar exit

Virat Kohli on Thursday said that England are&nbsp;favourites&nbsp;to win the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled to be hosted by India later in the year. England, who are the reigning champions&nbsp;in the 50-over World Cup,&nbsp;are regarded as one of the best white-ball teams in the world as Kohli said everyone knows what they bring to the field.&nbsp;

When asked whether India would be&nbsp;favourites&nbsp;to lift the ICC T20 World Cup on their home soil, Kohli said, in the pre-match press conference: “No, I think England are&nbsp;favourites. They are the No 1 side in the world, all teams will be wary of their strengths.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dhawan-rahul-or-rohit-virat-kohli-confirms-opening-combination-for-india-in-t20i-series-vs-england-369709" hreflang="en">Dhawan, Rahul or Rohit ? Virat Kohli confirms opening combination for India in T20I series vs England</a>

Veteran pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar is back with the Indian team after a lengthy layoff due to injury. Prior to his injury issues, Bhuvneshwar was crucial cog for the Indian team across formats and Kohli is delighted to have the 31-year-old back with the team.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Glad to have him back, he is keen to contribute to many more Indian wins. Hope he can build strongly from here&nbsp;for the World Cup,” Kohli answered.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ravichandran Ashwin’s recent form in red-ball cricket and in IPL has triggered a debate whether the veteran spinner should be included in India's white-ball team. However, Kohli said&nbsp;that with Washington Sundar, a similar bowler to Ashwin, in the side, he&nbsp;doesn’t&nbsp;see Ashwin coming back in the Indian limited-overs side for the ICC T20 World Cup.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/prithvi-shaw-equals-virat-kohlis-record-as-he-continues-blistering-run-of-form-369651" hreflang="en">Prithvi Shaw equals Virat Kohli's record as he continues blistering run of form</a>

“Washi has been doing really well for us, and it is difficult to have two players similar. Unless Washi has a horrible season (not&nbsp;possible).... you need to have some logic in the question as well. Easy to ask,” Kohli said.&nbsp;

The five-T20I series between&nbsp;India and England is set to start from Friday at the world’s largest cricket stadium – Narendra Modi Stadium – in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli on Thursday said that England are favourites to win the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled to be hosted by India later in the year. England, who are the reigning champions in the 50-over World Cup, are regarded as one of the best white-ball teams in the world as Kohli said everyone knows what they bring to the field.

Virat Kohli on Thursday said that England are favourites to win the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled to be hosted by India later in the year. England, who are the reigning champions in the 50-over World Cup, are regarded as one of the best white-ball teams in the world as Kohli said everyone knows what they bring to the field. When asked whether India would be favourites to lift the ICC T20 World Cup on their home soil, Kohli said, in the pre-match press conference: “No, I think England are favourites. They are the No 1 side in the world, all teams will be wary of their strengths.” × ALSO READ: Dhawan, Rahul or Rohit ? Virat Kohli confirms opening combination for India in T20I series vs England Veteran pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar is back with the Indian team after a lengthy layoff due to injury. Prior to his injury issues, Bhuvneshwar was crucial cog for the Indian team across formats and Kohli is delighted to have the 31-year-old back with the team. “Glad to have him back, he is keen to contribute to many more Indian wins. Hope he can build strongly from here for the World Cup,” Kohli answered. Ravichandran Ashwin’s recent form in red-ball cricket and in IPL has triggered a debate whether the veteran spinner should be included in India's white-ball team. However, Kohli said that with Washington Sundar, a similar bowler to Ashwin, in the side, he doesn’t see Ashwin coming back in the Indian limited-overs side for the ICC T20 World Cup. ALSO READ: Prithvi Shaw equals Virat Kohli's record as he continues blistering run of form “Washi has been doing really well for us, and it is difficult to have two players similar. Unless Washi has a horrible season (not possible).... you need to have some logic in the question as well. Easy to ask,” Kohli said. The five-T20I series between India and England is set to start from Friday at the world’s largest cricket stadium – Narendra Modi Stadium – in Ahmedabad.

England are favourites to win T20 World Cup, says Virat Kohli

Indian skipper Virat Kohli has said that England are favourites to win the ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled to be held in India later this year.

England favourites to win T20 World Cup: Virat Kohli

England’s white-ball captain Eoin Morgan on Thursday said that the five-match T20I series against India is an “extremely exciting” challenge that would assist the team to prepare for the World Cup later this year.&nbsp;

The series commences on Friday in Ahmedabad and would be the only opportunity for a full-strength England squad to play together before the T20 World Cup in India in October-November due to the hectic scheduling.&nbsp;&nbsp;

England, after thrashing in the Test series, will look to get back to winning ways in the T20I series. The T20I squad includes the likes of Dawid Malan, Jason Roy, Curran brothers among others.&nbsp;Jos Buttler and Moeen Ali who left the Test tour in between due to ECB’s rotation policy are also back in the squad for the white-ball leg of the&nbsp;gruelling&nbsp;tour.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/very-humbling-experience-dawid-malan-sam-billings-on-interaction-with-blind-cricketers-in-india-369777" hreflang="en">Very humbling experience: Dawid Malan, Sam Billings on interaction with blind cricketers in India</a>

"Certainly&nbsp;with one eye on the World Cup in seven&nbsp;months time, it is an opportunity to try and replicate teams and roles within the side that we might need to iron out before we get to the World Cup,"&nbsp;Morgan told reporters in a virtual press conference.&nbsp;

The World Cup-winning England skipper added that the Indian Premier League, starting April 9, would play a major role in helping his players for the T20 World Cup.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Certainly&nbsp;the first few times I went to the IPL, I've never gone through an experience like it. And I've learned a huge amount over the years that I've been there," Morgan said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-are-favourites-to-win-t20-world-cup-says-virat-kohli-369729" hreflang="en">England are favourites to win T20 World Cup, says Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;

"So&nbsp;the value in it given the year that it's in is brilliant, particularly now that we know it's being held in India."&nbsp;

The 34-year-old added that India would be&nbsp;favourites&nbsp;to win the World Cup on their home soil while adding that&nbsp;playing them in their backyard "is extremely exciting and everybody's looking forward to it".&nbsp;

&nbsp;

England’s white-ball captain Eoin Morgan on Thursday said that the five-match T20I series against India is an “extremely exciting” challenge that would assist the team to prepare for the World Cup later this year.

England’s white-ball captain Eoin Morgan on Thursday said that the five-match T20I series against India is an “extremely exciting” challenge that would assist the team to prepare for the World Cup later this year. The series commences on Friday in Ahmedabad and would be the only opportunity for a full-strength England squad to play together before the T20 World Cup in India in October-November due to the hectic scheduling. England, after thrashing in the Test series, will look to get back to winning ways in the T20I series. The T20I squad includes the likes of Dawid Malan, Jason Roy, Curran brothers among others. Jos Buttler and Moeen Ali who left the Test tour in between due to ECB’s rotation policy are also back in the squad for the white-ball leg of the gruelling tour. ALSO READ: Very humbling experience: Dawid Malan, Sam Billings on interaction with blind cricketers in India "Certainly with one eye on the World Cup in seven months time, it is an opportunity to try and replicate teams and roles within the side that we might need to iron out before we get to the World Cup," Morgan told reporters in a virtual press conference. The World Cup-winning England skipper added that the Indian Premier League, starting April 9, would play a major role in helping his players for the T20 World Cup. "Certainly the first few times I went to the IPL, I've never gone through an experience like it. And I've learned a huge amount over the years that I've been there," Morgan said. ALSO READ: England are favourites to win T20 World Cup, says Virat Kohli "So the value in it given the year that it's in is brilliant, particularly now that we know it's being held in India." The 34-year-old added that India would be favourites to win the World Cup on their home soil while adding that playing them in their backyard "is extremely exciting and everybody's looking forward to it".

T20I series against India an opportunity to prepare for World Cup, says England's Eoin Morgan

Ahead of the five-match T20I series against India, England cricketers Dawid Malan and Sam Billings had a heartfelt interaction with three blind cricketers&nbsp;– Vishnu, Dinesh and Nikul -&nbsp;from Gujarat about their love for cricket. The English duo discussed&nbsp;the feeling of stepping into&nbsp;the largest cricket stadium – Narendra Modi Stadium – in Ahmedabad while also expressing their thoughts on blind cricket.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sharing their experience of interacting with the blind cricketers,&nbsp;Malan and Billings&nbsp;told WION that they&nbsp;were left awestruck by&nbsp;Vishnu, Dinesh and Nikul’s&nbsp;passion and love for cricket.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The England batsmen acknowledged that cricket is the game for everyone while saying that&nbsp;the passion shown by the blind cricketers, despite all the challenges they face, is a real lesson in how to overcome the most difficult of situations in life.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Malan and Billings&nbsp;shared their thoughts&nbsp;after their interaction&nbsp;with the blind cricketers from Gujarat&nbsp;with the video going viral on social media.

Dawid Malan&nbsp;told WION:&nbsp;“It was wonderful and very humbling to speak with Vishnu, Dinesh and Nikul. Their commitment to the game we all love, despite the challenges they face, is a real lesson in how to accept challenges and overcome them. Our chat also&nbsp;emphasised&nbsp;to me how cricket really is a game for everyone, no matter what circumstances you find yourself in.”&nbsp;

Sam Billings&nbsp;told WION:&nbsp;“I think Dinesh and Nikul, two of the players we spoke with, had travelled for five hours just to be on the call with us. Those two, together with Vishnu, the Gujarat captain, were fantastic to speak with and they were even generous enough to give us each a ball used in blind cricket. Dawid and I both agreed we would give it a try when we get the chance, although it seems incredibly difficult, and I think we are both in awe of the skills the players have.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/to-officiate-in-t20-world-cup-and-ashes-is-my-next-target-nitin-menon-to-wion-369471" hreflang="en">To officiate in T20 World Cup and Ashes is my next target: Nitin Menon to WION</a>

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Cricket knows no boundaries! 
 
Who needs a hit of cricket chat ahead of 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 first <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20Cricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20Cricket</a> match with 🇮🇳 tomorrow? See English cricketers <a href="https://twitter.com/sambillings?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sambillings</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/dmalan29?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@dmalan29</a> have a chat with ‘unbelievably skilful’ blind cricketers from Gujarat about their love for the sport. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> <a href="https://t.co/5Ni7GGPCcE">pic.twitter.com/5Ni7GGPCcE</a>
— UK in India🇬🇧🇮🇳 (@UKinIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/UKinIndia/status/1369941515972218883?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Vishnu, Dinesh and Nikul, in the virtual interaction asked Malan and Billings about their experience of stepping in the Narendra Modi Stadium, their experiences of playing in IPL and India, and what&nbsp;their&nbsp;favourite&nbsp;sport&nbsp;was while growing up.&nbsp;However, due to COVID-19 restrictions, the players couldn’t meet the blind cricketers in person.&nbsp;But&nbsp;Vishnu, Dinesh and Nikul gifted Malan and Billings the balls used in blind cricket and the English cricketers have agreed to give it a try when they get a chance.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/monty-panesar-sachin-tendulkar-is-the-greatest-athlete-ever-to-play-against-him-is-huge-honour-369446" hreflang="en">Monty Panesar: Sachin Tendulkar is the greatest athlete ever, to play against him is huge honour</a>

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This is fantastic - a real shame that COVID prevented the players from interacting face-to-face, but a great experience for the <a href="https://twitter.com/englandcricket?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@englandcricket</a> players to hear about how the Indians play blind cricket, &amp; great for them to hear from two international stars... <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> <a href="https://t.co/IGS1QUcZl4">https://t.co/IGS1QUcZl4</a>
— Brian Murgatroyd (@murgersb) <a href="https://twitter.com/murgersb/status/1370015979615387648?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2021</a></blockquote>
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England cricket team is in India for a&nbsp;gruelling&nbsp;full-fledged tour. Following the completion of the four-match Test series, the visitors&nbsp;will commence their five-match T20I series against India from Friday (March 12) in Ahmedabad followed by a three-match ODI series starting from&nbsp;March 23 in Pune.&nbsp;

Ahead of the five-match T20I series against India, England cricketers Dawid Malan and Sam Billings had a heartfelt interaction with three blind cricketers – Vishnu, Dinesh and Nikul - from Gujarat about their love for cricket.

Ahead of the five-match T20I series against India, England cricketers Dawid Malan and Sam Billings had a heartfelt interaction with three blind cricketers – Vishnu, Dinesh and Nikul - from Gujarat about their love for cricket. The English duo discussed the feeling of stepping into the largest cricket stadium – Narendra Modi Stadium – in Ahmedabad while also expressing their thoughts on blind cricket. Sharing their experience of interacting with the blind cricketers, Malan and Billings told WION that they were left awestruck by Vishnu, Dinesh and Nikul’s passion and love for cricket. The England batsmen acknowledged that cricket is the game for everyone while saying that the passion shown by the blind cricketers, despite all the challenges they face, is a real lesson in how to overcome the most difficult of situations in life. Malan and Billings shared their thoughts after their interaction with the blind cricketers from Gujarat with the video going viral on social media. Dawid Malan told WION: “It was wonderful and very humbling to speak with Vishnu, Dinesh and Nikul. Their commitment to the game we all love, despite the challenges they face, is a real lesson in how to accept challenges and overcome them. Our chat also emphasised to me how cricket really is a game for everyone, no matter what circumstances you find yourself in.” Sam Billings told WION: “I think Dinesh and Nikul, two of the players we spoke with, had travelled for five hours just to be on the call with us. Those two, together with Vishnu, the Gujarat captain, were fantastic to speak with and they were even generous enough to give us each a ball used in blind cricket. Dawid and I both agreed we would give it a try when we get the chance, although it seems incredibly difficult, and I think we are both in awe of the skills the players have.” ALSO READ: To officiate in T20 World Cup and Ashes is my next target: Nitin Menon to WION Cricket knows no boundaries! Who needs a hit of cricket chat ahead of 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 first #T20Cricket match with 🇮🇳 tomorrow? See English cricketers @sambillings & @dmalan29 have a chat with ‘unbelievably skilful’ blind cricketers from Gujarat about their love for the sport. #INDvENG pic.twitter.com/5Ni7GGPCcE — UK in India🇬🇧🇮🇳 (@UKinIndia) March 11, 2021 × Vishnu, Dinesh and Nikul, in the virtual interaction asked Malan and Billings about their experience of stepping in the Narendra Modi Stadium, their experiences of playing in IPL and India, and what their favourite sport was while growing up. However, due to COVID-19 restrictions, the players couldn’t meet the blind cricketers in person. But Vishnu, Dinesh and Nikul gifted Malan and Billings the balls used in blind cricket and the English cricketers have agreed to give it a try when they get a chance. ALSO READ: Monty Panesar: Sachin Tendulkar is the greatest athlete ever, to play against him is huge honour This is fantastic - a real shame that COVID prevented the players from interacting face-to-face, but a great experience for the @englandcricket players to hear about how the Indians play blind cricket, & great for them to hear from two international stars... #INDvENG https://t.co/IGS1QUcZl4 — Brian Murgatroyd (@murgersb) March 11, 2021 × England cricket team is in India for a gruelling full-fledged tour. Following the completion of the four-match Test series, the visitors will commence their five-match T20I series against India from Friday (March 12) in Ahmedabad followed by a three-match ODI series starting from March 23 in Pune.

Very humbling experience: Dawid Malan, Sam Billings on interaction with blind cricketers in India

Former India batsman VVS Laxman has predicted his Team India playing XI for the first T20I against England, scheduled to be played on Friday at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. While there have been many debates around who should start for India in the T20I series against England, Laxman has provided his expert opinion on the matter.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Laxman went with Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul as his openers for the opening T20I of the series against England. It was later confirmed by Indian skipper Virat Kohli that Rohit and Rahul will open for the team on Friday with Shikhar Dhawan being the back-up to the duo in case of injury.&nbsp;

Laxman went on to pick skipper Kohli for the number three spot followed by Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya at four, five and six respectively. Laxman picked Iyer over Suryakumar Yadav with the former batsman saying that the Mumbai Indians batsman can come into the playing XI if India win the series early.&nbsp;

“It is going to be a tough choice because there is a lot of quality in that squad. But for me, for the first T20 international, I would go with KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma to open, no.3 will be Virat Kohli, no.4 Shreyas Iyer, No.5 Rishabh Pant, no.6 Hardik Pandya,” Laxman told Star Sports.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-are-favourites-to-win-t20-world-cup-says-virat-kohli-369729" hreflang="en">England are favourites to win T20 World Cup, says Virat Kohli</a>

“It is necessary for Suryakumar Yadav to wait. If we win the first three matches, you can play Suryakumar Yadav. You can do rotation in the bowling, you will not get the chance to rotate the batting against this team,” VVS Laxman added.&nbsp;

Laxman went on to pick&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;Patel over Washington Sundar with the 46-year-old saying that the southpaw will be able to carry his Test form to T20I cricket at his home ground.&nbsp;

Laxman then picked Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Deepak Chahar,&nbsp;Yuzvendra&nbsp;Chahal and T Natarajan to complete his bowling line-up. However, Natarajan is still recovering from an injury at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru and is expected to miss the entire T20I series.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/prithvi-shaw-equals-virat-kohlis-record-as-he-continues-blistering-run-of-form-369651" hreflang="en">Prithvi Shaw equals Virat Kohli's record as he continues blistering run of form</a>

“The kind of form&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;Patel has shown during the Test series, keeping in mind it is going to be his hometown Ahmedabad, No. 7 will be&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;Patel. No. 8 Bhuvneshwar Kumar, No. 9 Deepak Chahar, No. 10 will be Chahal, and No. 11 will be Natarajan because I want to develop Natarajan as the death specialist along with Bhuvi and&nbsp;Bumrah,”&nbsp;Laxman&nbsp;further said&nbsp;before predicting India to win the series 3-2.&nbsp;

“It is going to be a close series, no doubt about that, but I will still back India, 3-2 for India,” signed off VVS Laxman.&nbsp;

Former India batsman VVS Laxman has predicted his Team India playing XI for the first T20I against England, scheduled to be played on Friday at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Former India batsman VVS Laxman has predicted his Team India playing XI for the first T20I against England, scheduled to be played on Friday at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. While there have been many debates around who should start for India in the T20I series against England, Laxman has provided his expert opinion on the matter. Laxman went with Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul as his openers for the opening T20I of the series against England. It was later confirmed by Indian skipper Virat Kohli that Rohit and Rahul will open for the team on Friday with Shikhar Dhawan being the back-up to the duo in case of injury. Laxman went on to pick skipper Kohli for the number three spot followed by Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya at four, five and six respectively. Laxman picked Iyer over Suryakumar Yadav with the former batsman saying that the Mumbai Indians batsman can come into the playing XI if India win the series early. “It is going to be a tough choice because there is a lot of quality in that squad. But for me, for the first T20 international, I would go with KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma to open, no.3 will be Virat Kohli, no.4 Shreyas Iyer, No.5 Rishabh Pant, no.6 Hardik Pandya,” Laxman told Star Sports. ALSO READ: England are favourites to win T20 World Cup, says Virat Kohli “It is necessary for Suryakumar Yadav to wait. If we win the first three matches, you can play Suryakumar Yadav. You can do rotation in the bowling, you will not get the chance to rotate the batting against this team,” VVS Laxman added. Laxman went on to pick Axar Patel over Washington Sundar with the 46-year-old saying that the southpaw will be able to carry his Test form to T20I cricket at his home ground. Laxman then picked Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Deepak Chahar, Yuzvendra Chahal and T Natarajan to complete his bowling line-up. However, Natarajan is still recovering from an injury at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru and is expected to miss the entire T20I series. ALSO READ: Prithvi Shaw equals Virat Kohli's record as he continues blistering run of form “The kind of form Axar Patel has shown during the Test series, keeping in mind it is going to be his hometown Ahmedabad, No. 7 will be Axar Patel. No. 8 Bhuvneshwar Kumar, No. 9 Deepak Chahar, No. 10 will be Chahal, and No. 11 will be Natarajan because I want to develop Natarajan as the death specialist along with Bhuvi and Bumrah,” Laxman further said before predicting India to win the series 3-2. “It is going to be a close series, no doubt about that, but I will still back India, 3-2 for India,” signed off VVS Laxman.

VVS Laxman predicts Team India's playing XI for 1st T20I vs England

Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Thursday confirmed that Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul will start as the openers for Team India in the impending five-match T20I series against England, starting from March 12 in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Addressing a pre-match press conference, Kohli said that Rahul and Rohit have been batting well together in the shortest format of the game. The Indian skipper further said that veteran opener Shikhar Dhawan is the back-up to Rohit and Rahul in case of an injury.&nbsp;

When asked whether there are chances of Dhawan, Rohit and Rahul playing together, Kohli said:&nbsp;“I don't think so.”&nbsp;

TRENDING:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-out-or-not-out-danushka-gunathilaka-given-out-for-obstructing-the-field-against-west-indies-369514" hreflang="en">Watch: Out or not-out? Danushka Gunathilaka given out for 'obstructing the field' against West Indies</a>

The Indian skipper continued:&nbsp;“It's quite simple, Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul have done well for us consistently. Shikhar Dhawan is the back-up, our starting composition will be Rohit and KL for this series.”&nbsp;

Kohli further said that India will look to play more expressive cricket in the shortest format of the game while adding new faces have been added in the squad just to address the issue of sometimes being too cautious.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/to-officiate-in-t20-world-cup-and-ashes-is-my-next-target-nitin-menon-to-wion-369471" hreflang="en">To officiate in T20 World Cup and Ashes is my next target: Nitin Menon to WION</a>

“We want to play free&nbsp;cricket,&nbsp;we have explosive batsmen in the team now. That's exactly what we are trying to address. This time around you will see players bat more freely. I see us being much&nbsp;freer&nbsp;with our approach from this series onwards,” Kohli said.&nbsp;

The five-T20I series between&nbsp;India and England is set to start from Friday at the world’s largest cricket stadium – Narendra Modi Stadium – in Ahmedabad. The four-Test series between the two sides was won by India as they hammered the Joe Root-led outfit 3-1 to continue their home domination.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Thursday confirmed that Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul will start as the openers for Team India in the impending five-match T20I series against England, starting from March 12 in Ahmedabad.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Thursday confirmed that Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul will start as the openers for Team India in the impending five-match T20I series against England, starting from March 12 in Ahmedabad. Addressing a pre-match press conference, Kohli said that Rahul and Rohit have been batting well together in the shortest format of the game. The Indian skipper further said that veteran opener Shikhar Dhawan is the back-up to Rohit and Rahul in case of an injury. When asked whether there are chances of Dhawan, Rohit and Rahul playing together, Kohli said: “I don't think so.” TRENDING: Watch: Out or not-out? Danushka Gunathilaka given out for 'obstructing the field' against West Indies The Indian skipper continued: “It's quite simple, Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul have done well for us consistently. Shikhar Dhawan is the back-up, our starting composition will be Rohit and KL for this series.” Kohli further said that India will look to play more expressive cricket in the shortest format of the game while adding new faces have been added in the squad just to address the issue of sometimes being too cautious. ALSO READ: To officiate in T20 World Cup and Ashes is my next target: Nitin Menon to WION “We want to play free cricket, we have explosive batsmen in the team now. That's exactly what we are trying to address. This time around you will see players bat more freely. I see us being much freer with our approach from this series onwards,” Kohli said. The five-T20I series between India and England is set to start from Friday at the world’s largest cricket stadium – Narendra Modi Stadium – in Ahmedabad. The four-Test series between the two sides was won by India as they hammered the Joe Root-led outfit 3-1 to continue their home domination.

Dhawan, Rahul or Rohit ? Virat Kohli confirms opening combination for India in T20I series vs England

Indian opener Prithvi Shaw continued his blistering run of form on Thursday as the youngster smashed a 165 off just 122 balls for his state side Mumbai against Karnataka in the semi-final of the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2021.&nbsp;&nbsp;

With another century in his kitty, Shaw continued his record-breaking run as he became the highest scorer in a single edition of Vijay Hazare Trophy with 725* runs, surpassing Mayank Agarwal’s 723 runs in the 2018 edition of the tournament.&nbsp;

Shaw also&nbsp;equalled&nbsp;Virat Kohli’s record of scoring most centuries in a Vijay Hazare Trophy season as the 21-year-old registered his fourth century in the ongoing edition of the tournament. Karnataka’s Devdutt&nbsp;Padikkal&nbsp;also has&nbsp;four centuries to his name in the ongoing tournament.&nbsp;&nbsp;

WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-premier-league-2021-all-you-need-to-know-369582" hreflang="en">Indian Premier League 2021: All you need to know</a>

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Prithvi Shaw 100 runs in 79 balls (12x4, 3x6) Mumbai 148/2 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KARvMUM?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KARvMUM</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Paytm?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@paytm</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VijayHazareTrophy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VijayHazareTrophy</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SF2?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SF2</a> Scorecard:<a href="https://t.co/eBzWq6ZLsn">https://t.co/eBzWq6ZLsn</a>
— BCCI Domestic (@BCCIdomestic) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCIdomestic/status/1369881555414315012?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Most hundreds in a Vijay Hazare Trophy season:&nbsp;</h2>

4 - Virat Kohli in 2008-09&nbsp;

4 - Devdutt&nbsp;Padikkal&nbsp;in the current season&nbsp;

4 - Prithvi Shaw in the current season

TRENDING:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-out-or-not-out-danushka-gunathilaka-given-out-for-obstructing-the-field-against-west-indies-369514" hreflang="en">Watch: Out or not-out? Danushka Gunathilaka given out for 'obstructing the field' against West Indies</a>

Shaw registered his fourth century in the tournament after hammering 105* and 227* in the league stage followed by 185* off 123 deliveries in the quarter-final against Saurashtra. His 227-run knock against Puducherry&nbsp;was his maiden List-A century which also is the highest scorer in the history of the Vijay Hazare Trophy.&nbsp;

The youngster is currently leading the run-scoring charts in the tournament with a staggering 754 runs at an average of 251.33 and a strike-rate of 135.12 in seven matches.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Shaw went through a tough time Down Under where he was dropped from the Team India playing XI after the first Test at the Adelaide Oval. He lost his place to Shubman Gill but is knocking on the door of the Indian team once again with his terrific run of form. He will be looking to&nbsp;make an impact for Delhi Capitals in IPL 2021, scheduled to commence from April 9.&nbsp;

Indian opener Prithvi Shaw continued his blistering run of form on Thursday as the youngster smashed a 165 off just 122 balls for his state side Mumbai against Karnataka in the semi-final of the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2021.

Indian opener Prithvi Shaw continued his blistering run of form on Thursday as the youngster smashed a 165 off just 122 balls for his state side Mumbai against Karnataka in the semi-final of the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2021. With another century in his kitty, Shaw continued his record-breaking run as he became the highest scorer in a single edition of Vijay Hazare Trophy with 725* runs, surpassing Mayank Agarwal’s 723 runs in the 2018 edition of the tournament. Shaw also equalled Virat Kohli’s record of scoring most centuries in a Vijay Hazare Trophy season as the 21-year-old registered his fourth century in the ongoing edition of the tournament. Karnataka’s Devdutt Padikkal also has four centuries to his name in the ongoing tournament. WATCH: Indian Premier League 2021: All you need to know Prithvi Shaw 100 runs in 79 balls (12x4, 3x6) Mumbai 148/2 #KARvMUM @paytm #VijayHazareTrophy #SF2 Scorecard:https://t.co/eBzWq6ZLsn — BCCI Domestic (@BCCIdomestic) March 11, 2021 × Most hundreds in a Vijay Hazare Trophy season: 4 - Virat Kohli in 2008-09 4 - Devdutt Padikkal in the current season 4 - Prithvi Shaw in the current season TRENDING: Watch: Out or not-out? Danushka Gunathilaka given out for 'obstructing the field' against West Indies Shaw registered his fourth century in the tournament after hammering 105* and 227* in the league stage followed by 185* off 123 deliveries in the quarter-final against Saurashtra. His 227-run knock against Puducherry was his maiden List-A century which also is the highest scorer in the history of the Vijay Hazare Trophy. The youngster is currently leading the run-scoring charts in the tournament with a staggering 754 runs at an average of 251.33 and a strike-rate of 135.12 in seven matches. Shaw went through a tough time Down Under where he was dropped from the Team India playing XI after the first Test at the Adelaide Oval. He lost his place to Shubman Gill but is knocking on the door of the Indian team once again with his terrific run of form. He will be looking to make an impact for Delhi Capitals in IPL 2021, scheduled to commence from April 9.

Prithvi Shaw equals Virat Kohli's record as he continues blistering run of form

Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola praised his players' powers of recovery to beat Southampton 5-2 despite being denied a blatant penalty when the game was delicately poised at 1-1.

City are now 14 points clear at the top of the Premier League as they close in on a third title in four years.

A 21-game winning run for Guardiola's men came to an end against Manchester United on Sunday.

But City offered the second-placed Red Devils little extra encouragement that there was a route back into the title race as Riyad Mahrez and Kevin De Bruyne both struck twice.

Guardiola, though, was still furious after VAR did not intervene when Alex McCarthy wiped out Phil Foden after overrunning the ball.

The England midfielder tried to stay on his feet to tap into an empty net, but, after the chance slipped away, VAR did not tell referee Jon Moss to review the incident.

"Jon cannot see it but that the VAR is there and don't whistle the penalty is incredible," said Guardiola.

"You know after four years I don't talk about the referees, but this action is incredible.

"Maybe one day they will explain us really the rule for all the players, managers.

"That's why I am proud because in this club, I don't know in others, what we have done in these past years we won it ourselves that's for sure."

City's winning run had started against Southampton back in December when the Saints were flying high and above the now champions-elect in the table.

However, Ralph Hasenhuttl's men have taken just nine points from their last 15 games to tumble down to 14th.

The visitors made a bright start before their leaky defence began to creak when faced with City's array of attacking talent.

De Bruyne smashed home the opener off the underside of the bar after McCarthy had parried Foden's shot on 15 minutes.

The lead only lasted 10 minutes, though, as Jannik Vestegaard was hauled down by Aymeric Laporte after his initial header had been parried by Ederson.

James Ward-Prowse coolly converted the penalty straight down the middle.

Moments later came City's penalty appeal, but to their credit the home side turned their anger from that injustice into goals before the break.

The brilliant Mahrez pounced on a stray Che Adams pass before curling into the bottom corner on his favoured left foot.

<h2>- 'Quality of players' -</h2>

The Algerian was also the creator for City's third as his right-footed effort came back off the post and Ilkay Gundogan was in the right place to stroke home his 14th goal of the season.

"We won because of the quality of the players we had on the pitch," added Guardiola. "It's important for Kevin and Riyad to score goals. We need them."

Goals continued to flow at both ends after the break as Mahrez wriggled clear in the box again to fire in City's fourth.

A miserly defensive record had been key to the run that allowed Guardiola's side to streak clear at the top of the table.

But they have now conceded six goals in their last four games.

With John Stones rested, Laporte did little to further his chances of starting the big upcoming Champions League games. The Frenchman was again at fault as Adams drilled a loose ball home from close range.

Again City responded almost immediately as Foden teed up De Bruyne to score his second of the evening.

Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola praised his players' powers of recovery to beat Southampton 5-2 despite being denied a blatant penalty when the game was delicately poised at 1-1.

Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola praised his players' powers of recovery to beat Southampton 5-2 despite being denied a blatant penalty when the game was delicately poised at 1-1. City are now 14 points clear at the top of the Premier League as they close in on a third title in four years. A 21-game winning run for Guardiola's men came to an end against Manchester United on Sunday. But City offered the second-placed Red Devils little extra encouragement that there was a route back into the title race as Riyad Mahrez and Kevin De Bruyne both struck twice. Guardiola, though, was still furious after VAR did not intervene when Alex McCarthy wiped out Phil Foden after overrunning the ball. The England midfielder tried to stay on his feet to tap into an empty net, but, after the chance slipped away, VAR did not tell referee Jon Moss to review the incident. "Jon cannot see it but that the VAR is there and don't whistle the penalty is incredible," said Guardiola. "You know after four years I don't talk about the referees, but this action is incredible. "Maybe one day they will explain us really the rule for all the players, managers. "That's why I am proud because in this club, I don't know in others, what we have done in these past years we won it ourselves that's for sure." City's winning run had started against Southampton back in December when the Saints were flying high and above the now champions-elect in the table. However, Ralph Hasenhuttl's men have taken just nine points from their last 15 games to tumble down to 14th. The visitors made a bright start before their leaky defence began to creak when faced with City's array of attacking talent. De Bruyne smashed home the opener off the underside of the bar after McCarthy had parried Foden's shot on 15 minutes. The lead only lasted 10 minutes, though, as Jannik Vestegaard was hauled down by Aymeric Laporte after his initial header had been parried by Ederson. James Ward-Prowse coolly converted the penalty straight down the middle. Moments later came City's penalty appeal, but to their credit the home side turned their anger from that injustice into goals before the break. The brilliant Mahrez pounced on a stray Che Adams pass before curling into the bottom corner on his favoured left foot. - 'Quality of players' - The Algerian was also the creator for City's third as his right-footed effort came back off the post and Ilkay Gundogan was in the right place to stroke home his 14th goal of the season. "We won because of the quality of the players we had on the pitch," added Guardiola. "It's important for Kevin and Riyad to score goals. We need them." Goals continued to flow at both ends after the break as Mahrez wriggled clear in the box again to fire in City's fourth. A miserly defensive record had been key to the run that allowed Guardiola's side to streak clear at the top of the table. But they have now conceded six goals in their last four games. With John Stones rested, Laporte did little to further his chances of starting the big upcoming Champions League games. The Frenchman was again at fault as Adams drilled a loose ball home from close range. Again City responded almost immediately as Foden teed up De Bruyne to score his second of the evening.

Five-goal Man City overcome 'incredible' penalty call to beat Southampton

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Zee News Rajasthan

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Subhayan Chakraborty

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