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Arsenal have successfully appealed against the red card shown to Myles Lewis-Skelly in Saturday's 1-0 win at Wolves, meaning the 18-year-old escapes a three-match ban.
The left-back was sent off in the first half at Molineux for tripping Matt Doherty as Wolves broke clear from an Arsenal corner.
Referee Michael Oliver was not asked to review the incident by the VAR much to the dismay of Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta.
<h2>Arteta delighted with Premier League decision</h2>
"Obviously (I'm) really happy that the decision has been made and Myles is going to be available for us," Arteta told a news conference on Tuesday ahead of Arsenal's Champions League clash with Girona.
Former England captain Alan Shearer was one of a number of outspoken critics of the red card, describing it as "one of the worst decisions that I've seen in a long time".
The Football Association said in a statement: "An independent regulatory commission has upheld a claim of wrongful dismissal in relation to Myles Lewis-Skelly and removed his three-match suspension."
Lewis-Skelly, who has impressed in his breakthrough season with the Gunners' first team, is now free to face Manchester City and Leicester in the Premier League, either side of the second leg of Arsenal's League Cup semi-final against Newcastle.
Despite playing for nearly half an hour a man down before Wolves' Joao Gomes was also sent off, Arsenal struck late through Riccardo Calafiori to remain six points behind Premier League leaders Liverpool.
After the match, Oliver faced threats and abuse on social media, which were investigated by police.
"We have to try hard to eradicate (abuse) from the game," said Arteta.
"It certainly damages our sport, so let's get it out."
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ranji-trophy-2025-young-players-felt-motivated-after-training-with-kohli-says-delhi-coach-8661983" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Ranji Trophy 2025: &lsquo;Young players felt motivated after training with Kohli,&rsquo; says Delhi coach</a>
Arsenal are aiming to seal direct qualification to the Champions League last 16 on Wednesday at already-eliminated Girona.
Third in the table, Arteta's side are highly unlikely to miss out on a top eight spot.
Arsenal have never won the Champions League and last lifted a major trophy in 2020 when they won the FA Cup.
"We have been very close to big titles in the last few years but that's very difficult in football," added Arteta.
"Tomorrow we must earn our qualification."
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Sports, Football: Premier League referee Michael Oliver was not asked to review the incident by the VAR much to the dismay of Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta.

Arsenal have successfully appealed against the red card shown to Myles Lewis-Skelly in Saturday's 1-0 win at Wolves, meaning the 18-year-old escapes a three-match ban. The left-back was sent off in the first half at Molineux for tripping Matt Doherty as Wolves broke clear from an Arsenal corner. Referee Michael Oliver was not asked to review the incident by the VAR much to the dismay of Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta. Arteta delighted with Premier League decision "Obviously (I'm) really happy that the decision has been made and Myles is going to be available for us," Arteta told a news conference on Tuesday ahead of Arsenal's Champions League clash with Girona. Former England captain Alan Shearer was one of a number of outspoken critics of the red card, describing it as "one of the worst decisions that I've seen in a long time". The Football Association said in a statement: "An independent regulatory commission has upheld a claim of wrongful dismissal in relation to Myles Lewis-Skelly and removed his three-match suspension." Lewis-Skelly, who has impressed in his breakthrough season with the Gunners' first team, is now free to face Manchester City and Leicester in the Premier League, either side of the second leg of Arsenal's League Cup semi-final against Newcastle. Despite playing for nearly half an hour a man down before Wolves' Joao Gomes was also sent off, Arsenal struck late through Riccardo Calafiori to remain six points behind Premier League leaders Liverpool. After the match, Oliver faced threats and abuse on social media, which were investigated by police. "We have to try hard to eradicate (abuse) from the game," said Arteta. "It certainly damages our sport, so let's get it out." ALSO READ | Ranji Trophy 2025: ‘Young players felt motivated after training with Kohli,’ says Delhi coach Arsenal are aiming to seal direct qualification to the Champions League last 16 on Wednesday at already-eliminated Girona. Third in the table, Arteta's side are highly unlikely to miss out on a top eight spot. Arsenal have never won the Champions League and last lifted a major trophy in 2020 when they won the FA Cup. "We have been very close to big titles in the last few years but that's very difficult in football," added Arteta. "Tomorrow we must earn our qualification." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Premier League: Mikel Arteta delighted as Arsenal win appeal over Myles Lewis-Skelly red card

Former Belgium midfielder Radja Nainggolan was charged on Tuesday as part of an investigation into cocaine trafficking on an international scale, a day after he was arrested, the Brussels prosecutor's office said.
<h2>Nainggolan charged</h2>
The 36-year-old footballer was charged with "participating in a criminal organisation" and then conditionally released, his lawyer Mounir Souidi told media after a hearing in Brussels.
Nainggolan was among 18 suspects arrested following a series of 30 searches carried out on Monday morning in the northern province of Antwerp, as well as in the Brussels area. Ten of them were imprisoned after being brought before a judge.
The majority of those held face charges of "importation, transport and selling of drugs without permission" and with the "participation in organised crime as leaders".
Nainggolan was released on bail as he was charged with being a "member" of the organisation and not a "leader".
"The investigation concerns alleged facts of importation of cocaine from South America to Europe, via the port of Antwerp, and its redistribution in Belgium," prosecutors said in a statement on Monday.
In addition to 2.7 kilos (six pounds) of cocaine, police seized around half a million euros ($521,000) in cash and gold coins, a stash of jewellery, and luxury watches including two worth some 360,000 euros each.
They further seized three firearms, two bullet-proof vests and 14 vehicles, prosecutors said.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ranji-trophy-2025-young-players-felt-motivated-after-training-with-kohli-says-delhi-coach-8661983" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Ranji Trophy 2025: &lsquo;Young players felt motivated after training with Kohli,&rsquo; says Delhi coach</a>
Antwerp-born Nainggolan came out of retirement last week to join a lower-tier Belgian side -- adding a final spell to a long career that saw him play 30 matches and score six goals for the national team.
Having played for Italian teams Cagliari, Inter Milan and Roma, he had been without a club since last summer before signing with Belgian second-tier outfit Lokeren last week.
He marked his debut with a goal at the weekend in Lokeren's 1-1 home draw to K. Lierse.
He had previously returned from Italy to Belgium in the summer of 2021 to join Royal Antwerp.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Sports, Football: Radja Nainggolan was charged on Tuesday as part of an investigation into cocaine trafficking on an international scale, a day after he was arrested. 

Former Belgium midfielder Radja Nainggolan was charged on Tuesday as part of an investigation into cocaine trafficking on an international scale, a day after he was arrested, the Brussels prosecutor's office said. Nainggolan charged The 36-year-old footballer was charged with "participating in a criminal organisation" and then conditionally released, his lawyer Mounir Souidi told media after a hearing in Brussels. Nainggolan was among 18 suspects arrested following a series of 30 searches carried out on Monday morning in the northern province of Antwerp, as well as in the Brussels area. Ten of them were imprisoned after being brought before a judge. The majority of those held face charges of "importation, transport and selling of drugs without permission" and with the "participation in organised crime as leaders". Nainggolan was released on bail as he was charged with being a "member" of the organisation and not a "leader". "The investigation concerns alleged facts of importation of cocaine from South America to Europe, via the port of Antwerp, and its redistribution in Belgium," prosecutors said in a statement on Monday. In addition to 2.7 kilos (six pounds) of cocaine, police seized around half a million euros ($521,000) in cash and gold coins, a stash of jewellery, and luxury watches including two worth some 360,000 euros each. They further seized three firearms, two bullet-proof vests and 14 vehicles, prosecutors said. ALSO READ | Ranji Trophy 2025: ‘Young players felt motivated after training with Kohli,’ says Delhi coach Antwerp-born Nainggolan came out of retirement last week to join a lower-tier Belgian side -- adding a final spell to a long career that saw him play 30 matches and score six goals for the national team. Having played for Italian teams Cagliari, Inter Milan and Roma, he had been without a club since last summer before signing with Belgian second-tier outfit Lokeren last week. He marked his debut with a goal at the weekend in Lokeren's 1-1 home draw to K. Lierse. He had previously returned from Italy to Belgium in the summer of 2021 to join Royal Antwerp. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Ex-Belgium midfielder Radja Nainggolan charged in drug trafficking probe

New Zealand&rsquo;s star bowler Trent Boult proposed a master plan had he been given the opportunity to dismiss former India batter and legendary Sachin Tendulkar. Boult, while speaking to MI Cape Town&rsquo;s official Instagram handle opened up on the plan as he hunts for glory in the SA20. Boult has been a consistent performer in the T20 format and will try to replicate his success in South Africa&rsquo;s top franchise league.
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<p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DFW1UeoP4Ed/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by MI Cape Town (@micapetown)</a>
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<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Boult opens up on plan to dismiss Tendulkar<o:p></o:p></h2>
In a video posted on MI Cape Town&rsquo;s social media handle, Boult stated it is a dream to get the better of the legendary Tendulkar, who played MI&rsquo;s parent Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise, Mumbai Indians. Boult stated he will have one slip, one extra cover, mid wicket, deep fine leg, a point fielder and a mid-off fielder. <o:p></o:p>
Boult&rsquo;s plan to dismiss Tendulkar will also include two close catchers on the leg side while he bowls an in-swinger on the middle stump. According to the New Zealand pacer, Tendulkar could struggle against the left-arm bowling, which could help him dismiss the great.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-ranji-trophy-return-delhi-railways-contest-unlikely-to-be-telecasted-live-streamed-report-8659828" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Virat Kohli Ranji Trophy return: Delhi-Railways contest unlikely to be telecasted, live streamed - Report</a>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Boult ready to strike<o:p></o:p></h2>
As things stand, Boult&rsquo;s dream won&rsquo;t turn into a reality, as it has been over a decade since Tendulkar announced his retirement from the game. However, for now, the pacer will have his eyes on the SA20 playoffs as MI Cape Town sit on the brink with 21 points from seven matches. So far in seven matches, MI Cape Town have won four while losing on two occasions.<o:p></o:p>
Paarl Royals so far are the only team to qualify for the playoffs with seven wins and a defeat. Durban Super Giants are the only team out of the playoffs race, having lost six of their nine matches.<o:p></o:p>

Sports, Cricket: New Zealand’s star bowler Trent Boult proposed a master plan had he been given the opportunity to dismiss former India batter and legendary Sachin Tendulkar.

New Zealand’s star bowler Trent Boult proposed a master plan had he been given the opportunity to dismiss former India batter and legendary Sachin Tendulkar. Boult, while speaking to MI Cape Town’s official Instagram handle opened up on the plan as he hunts for glory in the SA20. Boult has been a consistent performer in the T20 format and will try to replicate his success in South Africa’s top franchise league. View this post on Instagram A post shared by MI Cape Town (@micapetown) Boult opens up on plan to dismiss Tendulkar In a video posted on MI Cape Town’s social media handle, Boult stated it is a dream to get the better of the legendary Tendulkar, who played MI’s parent Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise, Mumbai Indians. Boult stated he will have one slip, one extra cover, mid wicket, deep fine leg, a point fielder and a mid-off fielder. Boult’s plan to dismiss Tendulkar will also include two close catchers on the leg side while he bowls an in-swinger on the middle stump. According to the New Zealand pacer, Tendulkar could struggle against the left-arm bowling, which could help him dismiss the great. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli Ranji Trophy return: Delhi-Railways contest unlikely to be telecasted, live streamed - Report Boult ready to strike As things stand, Boult’s dream won’t turn into a reality, as it has been over a decade since Tendulkar announced his retirement from the game. However, for now, the pacer will have his eyes on the SA20 playoffs as MI Cape Town sit on the brink with 21 points from seven matches. So far in seven matches, MI Cape Town have won four while losing on two occasions. Paarl Royals so far are the only team to qualify for the playoffs with seven wins and a defeat. Durban Super Giants are the only team out of the playoffs race, having lost six of their nine matches.

Watch: Trent Boult shares master plan to dismiss Sachin Tendulkar in MI Cape Town's SA20 camp

Australia&rsquo;s Travis Head is all set to return to the opener&rsquo;s position as they take on Sri Lanka in the opening match of the two-match Test series starting Wednesday (Jan 29). Head, who played a pivotal role in Australia&rsquo;s 3-1 series win over India in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy recently, will open alongside Usman Khawaja. The decision comes on the eve of the opening contest in the two-match series which will start on Wednesday at the Galle International Stadium in Galle. <o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Travis Head to open alongside Khawaja<o:p></o:p></h2>
"Trav will go to the top, outside of that I think it will be pretty stable," Australia skipper Steve Smith told reporters prior to Australia's final pre-Test training session.<o:p></o:p>
"I don't see it being a great deal of change from that.<o:p></o:p>
"The selectors liked what they saw in India when he (Head) had that opportunity.<o:p></o:p>
"He got after the new ball, scored quickly and put the pressure on them straight away so I guess similar thinking here."<o:p></o:p>
Head&rsquo;s promotion up the order could mean Sam Konstas and Nathan McSweeney might miss the contest against Sri Lanka. The former was impressive in his two outings against India while McSweeney failed to make the most of his opportunities in the same series.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-ranji-trophy-return-delhi-railways-contest-unlikely-to-be-telecasted-live-streamed-report-8659828" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Virat Kohli Ranji Trophy return: Delhi-Railways contest unlikely to be telecasted, live streamed - Report</a>
One of the reasons for Head&rsquo;s promotion up the order could be influenced by World Test Championship (WTC) final preparations. The Aussie batter has excelled in his role as opener in the ODI and T20I format and could replicate the same in Test format. His track record in ICC finals has been impressive having scored 163 in the 2023 WTC final followed by a 137-run knock in the ODI World Cup final.<o:p></o:p>
Despite having a tradition of announcing their Playing XI on the eve of the Test matches, Cricket Australia refrained from the announcement this time. The team led by Steve Smith will announce the Playing XI at the spin of the coin on Wednesday.<o:p></o:p>

Sports, Cricket: Australia’s Travis Head is all set to return to the opener’s position as they take on Sri Lanka in the opening match of the two-match Test series. 

Australia’s Travis Head is all set to return to the opener’s position as they take on Sri Lanka in the opening match of the two-match Test series starting Wednesday (Jan 29). Head, who played a pivotal role in Australia’s 3-1 series win over India in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy recently, will open alongside Usman Khawaja. The decision comes on the eve of the opening contest in the two-match series which will start on Wednesday at the Galle International Stadium in Galle. Travis Head to open alongside Khawaja "Trav will go to the top, outside of that I think it will be pretty stable," Australia skipper Steve Smith told reporters prior to Australia's final pre-Test training session. "I don't see it being a great deal of change from that. "The selectors liked what they saw in India when he (Head) had that opportunity. "He got after the new ball, scored quickly and put the pressure on them straight away so I guess similar thinking here." Head’s promotion up the order could mean Sam Konstas and Nathan McSweeney might miss the contest against Sri Lanka. The former was impressive in his two outings against India while McSweeney failed to make the most of his opportunities in the same series. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli Ranji Trophy return: Delhi-Railways contest unlikely to be telecasted, live streamed - Report One of the reasons for Head’s promotion up the order could be influenced by World Test Championship (WTC) final preparations. The Aussie batter has excelled in his role as opener in the ODI and T20I format and could replicate the same in Test format. His track record in ICC finals has been impressive having scored 163 in the 2023 WTC final followed by a 137-run knock in the ODI World Cup final. Despite having a tradition of announcing their Playing XI on the eve of the Test matches, Cricket Australia refrained from the announcement this time. The team led by Steve Smith will announce the Playing XI at the spin of the coin on Wednesday.

SL vs AUS, 1st Test: Travis Head to open alongside Usman Khawaja in Galle Test, confirms Cricket Australia

SL vs AUS, 1st Test Live Streaming, Date-Time, Venue:&nbsp;Australia will look to close the round-robin stage of the World Test Championship (WTC) as they take on Sri Lanka in a two-match Test series starting from Wednesday (Jan 29). Having already sealed their place in the WTC final, Australia will look at the series as a warm-up to the main event while hosts Sri Lanka play for pride.&nbsp;Ahead of the opening Test between hosts Sri Lanka and Australia, here are all the details, including live streaming, squads, and more.
<h2 class="MsoNormal">When is the Sri Lanka vs Australia 1st Test match?<o:p></o:p></h2>
The Sri Lanka vs Australia 1st Test match will start on Wednesday (Jan 29).
<h2 class="MsoNormal">Which stadium will host the Sri Lanka vs Australia 1st Test match?</h2>
The Sri Lanka vs Australia 1st Test match will be played at the Galle International Stadium in Galle.
<h2 class="MsoNormal">What time will the Sri Lanka vs Australia 1st Test match start?<o:p></o:p></h2>
The Sri Lanka vs Australia 1st Test match will start at 10:00 AM IST on Wednesday (Jan 29) with the toss taking place at 9:30 AM IST.
<h2 class="MsoNormal">Where to watch the Sri Lanka vs Australia 1st Test match on TV?<o:p></o:p></h2>
The Sri Lanka vs Australia 1st Test match will be telecast on the Sony Sports Network in India.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-ranji-trophy-return-delhi-railways-contest-unlikely-to-be-telecasted-live-streamed-report-8659828" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Virat Kohli Ranji Trophy return: Delhi-Railways contest unlikely to be telecasted, live streamed - Report</a> 
<h2 class="MsoNormal">Where to watch the Sri Lanka vs Australia 1st Test Live Streaming online on OTT?<o:p></o:p></h2>
The Sri Lanka vs Australia 1st Test match will be live-streamed on the Sony Liv app and website in India.
<h2 class="MsoNormal">Squads<o:p></o:p></h2>
Sri Lanka: Dimuth Karunaratne, Oshada Fernando, Dinesh Chandimal, Angelo Mathews, Kamindu Mendis, Dhananjaya de Silva(c), Kusal Mendis(w), Prabath Jayasuriya, Lahiru Kumara, Vishwa Fernando, Asitha Fernando, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Jeffrey Vandersay, Nishan Peiris, Sonal Dinusha, Lahiru Udara, Milan Priyanath Rathnayake
Australia: Sam Konstas, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steven Smith(c), Travis Head, Beau Webster, Alex Carey(w), Sean Abbott, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland, Josh Inglis, Matthew Kuhnemann, Nathan McSweeney, Todd Murphy, Cooper Connolly

Sports, Cricket: Australia will look to close the round-robin stage of the WTC as they take on Sri Lanka in a two-match Test series starting from Wednesday (Jan 29).

SL vs AUS, 1st Test Live Streaming, Date-Time, Venue: Australia will look to close the round-robin stage of the World Test Championship (WTC) as they take on Sri Lanka in a two-match Test series starting from Wednesday (Jan 29). Having already sealed their place in the WTC final, Australia will look at the series as a warm-up to the main event while hosts Sri Lanka play for pride. Ahead of the opening Test between hosts Sri Lanka and Australia, here are all the details, including live streaming, squads, and more. When is the Sri Lanka vs Australia 1st Test match? The Sri Lanka vs Australia 1st Test match will start on Wednesday (Jan 29). Which stadium will host the Sri Lanka vs Australia 1st Test match? The Sri Lanka vs Australia 1st Test match will be played at the Galle International Stadium in Galle. What time will the Sri Lanka vs Australia 1st Test match start? The Sri Lanka vs Australia 1st Test match will start at 10:00 AM IST on Wednesday (Jan 29) with the toss taking place at 9:30 AM IST. Where to watch the Sri Lanka vs Australia 1st Test match on TV? The Sri Lanka vs Australia 1st Test match will be telecast on the Sony Sports Network in India. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli Ranji Trophy return: Delhi-Railways contest unlikely to be telecasted, live streamed - Report Where to watch the Sri Lanka vs Australia 1st Test Live Streaming online on OTT? The Sri Lanka vs Australia 1st Test match will be live-streamed on the Sony Liv app and website in India. Squads Sri Lanka: Dimuth Karunaratne, Oshada Fernando, Dinesh Chandimal, Angelo Mathews, Kamindu Mendis, Dhananjaya de Silva(c), Kusal Mendis(w), Prabath Jayasuriya, Lahiru Kumara, Vishwa Fernando, Asitha Fernando, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Jeffrey Vandersay, Nishan Peiris, Sonal Dinusha, Lahiru Udara, Milan Priyanath Rathnayake Australia: Sam Konstas, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steven Smith(c), Travis Head, Beau Webster, Alex Carey(w), Sean Abbott, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland, Josh Inglis, Matthew Kuhnemann, Nathan McSweeney, Todd Murphy, Cooper Connolly

SL vs AUS, 1st Test live streaming: When & where to watch Sri Lanka vs Australia live

Team India will have a golden opportunity to seal the T20I series against England as they take on the visitors in the third contest on Tuesday (Jan 28) in Rajkot. Having beaten England by two wickets in the Chennai T20I, India will be high on confidence while they take on the visitors. Ahead of the third contest of the five-match T20I series, here is the match prediction and all the details, including match timings and squads.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">India vs England, 3rd T20I Match Prediction<o:p></o:p></h2>
The contest in Rajkot will be the 27th head-to-head meeting between the sides in the T20I format with India leading 15-11. None of the previous 26 matches have ended in a draw and that tradition could continue on Tuesday with no rain forecasted. India will rely on the services of Tilak Varma, having played a match-winning 72-run knock in Chennai.<o:p></o:p>
England on the other hand will rely on Jos Buttler and Harry Brook, as they look to keep alive the team&rsquo;s hopes in the series. England have lost the last three head-to-head meetings against India, including the T20 World Cup semifinal in the West Indies in June. 
Considering the current form, we predict India to win the match with Buttler and Co. expected to give a good account of themselves.<o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">When is the India vs England 3rd T20I match?<o:p></o:p></h2>
The India vs England 3rd T20I match will be played on Tuesday (Jan 28).<o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Which stadium will host the India vs England 3rd T20I match?<o:p></o:p></h2>
The India vs England 3rd T20I match will be played at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-ranji-trophy-return-delhi-railways-contest-unlikely-to-be-telecasted-live-streamed-report-8659828" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Virat Kohli Ranji Trophy return: Delhi-Railways contest unlikely to be telecasted, live streamed - Report</a> 
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">What time will the India vs England 3rd T20I match start?<o:p></o:p></h2>
The India vs England 3rd T20I match will start at 7:00 pm local time on Wednesday (Jan 22) with the toss taking place at 6:30 pm local time.<o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Squads<o:p></o:p></h2>
India: Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Sanju Samson, Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Nitish Reddy, Mohd Shami, Arshdeep Singh, Harisht Rana, Dhruv Jurel, Rinku Singh, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Varun Chakrabarthy and Washington Sundar<o:p></o:p>
England: Jos Buttler (c), Rehan Ahmed, Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Ben Duckett, Jamie Overton, Jamie Smith, Liam Livingstone, Adil Rashid, Saqib Mahmood, Phil Salt, Mark Wood<o:p></o:p>

Sports, Cricket: Team India will have a golden opportunity to seal the T20I series against England as they take on the visitors in the third contest on Tuesday (Jan 28) in Rajkot.

Team India will have a golden opportunity to seal the T20I series against England as they take on the visitors in the third contest on Tuesday (Jan 28) in Rajkot. Having beaten England by two wickets in the Chennai T20I, India will be high on confidence while they take on the visitors. Ahead of the third contest of the five-match T20I series, here is the match prediction and all the details, including match timings and squads. India vs England, 3rd T20I Match Prediction The contest in Rajkot will be the 27th head-to-head meeting between the sides in the T20I format with India leading 15-11. None of the previous 26 matches have ended in a draw and that tradition could continue on Tuesday with no rain forecasted. India will rely on the services of Tilak Varma, having played a match-winning 72-run knock in Chennai. England on the other hand will rely on Jos Buttler and Harry Brook, as they look to keep alive the team’s hopes in the series. England have lost the last three head-to-head meetings against India, including the T20 World Cup semifinal in the West Indies in June. Considering the current form, we predict India to win the match with Buttler and Co. expected to give a good account of themselves. When is the India vs England 3rd T20I match? The India vs England 3rd T20I match will be played on Tuesday (Jan 28). Which stadium will host the India vs England 3rd T20I match? The India vs England 3rd T20I match will be played at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli Ranji Trophy return: Delhi-Railways contest unlikely to be telecasted, live streamed - Report What time will the India vs England 3rd T20I match start? The India vs England 3rd T20I match will start at 7:00 pm local time on Wednesday (Jan 22) with the toss taking place at 6:30 pm local time. Squads India: Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Sanju Samson, Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Nitish Reddy, Mohd Shami, Arshdeep Singh, Harisht Rana, Dhruv Jurel, Rinku Singh, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Varun Chakrabarthy and Washington Sundar England: Jos Buttler (c), Rehan Ahmed, Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Ben Duckett, Jamie Overton, Jamie Smith, Liam Livingstone, Adil Rashid, Saqib Mahmood, Phil Salt, Mark Wood

IND vs ENG, 3rd T20I match prediction: India look to seal series in Rajkot

Virat Kohli&rsquo;s fans could be left disappointed as the star India batter is set to return to the Ranji Trophy contest for the first time in over a decade on Thursday (Jan 30). Kohli, who last represented Delhi in the Ranji Trophy in 2012 will play in the domestic red-ball format against Railways in Elite Group D. However, according to a report, the match at the Arun Jaitley Stadium between Delhi and Railways will not be telecast or live-streamed on any digital platform. <o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Kohli fans disappointed<o:p></o:p></h2>
According to a report from a leading news outlet, Kohli&rsquo;s Ranji Trophy match will not be telecasted on the Sports 18 Network, which holds the rights to broadcast India&rsquo;s domestic matches. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has already allocated telecast slots to Karnataka vs. Haryana, Bengal vs. Punjab, and Jammu &amp; Kashmir vs. Baroda, meaning there could be logistical issues in broadcasting the match. <o:p></o:p>
The current broadcaster will either have to drop one match from the already allotted slot to accommodate the Kohli contest on TV or make necessary arrangements for live streaming on the digital platform.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-is-naomi-girma-24-years-old-million-dollar-female-footballer-most-expensive-female-football-player-chelsea-women-olympic-gold-winner-8659154" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Meet Naomi Girma - 24-year-old Olympic gold winner and world's first million-dollar female footballer</a>
"We don't know if BCCI will make any last-minute arrangements since Kohli is playing but we haven't been intimated anything about the broadcast of this game. Normally all big centres get one live game allotted (TV or streaming). We had a game against Tamil Nadu which was aired live. The roster for broadcast is set months in advance," a DDCA official told PTI.<o:p></o:p>
It is also reported that the BCCI decision to broadcast Mumbai&rsquo;s Ranji Trophy match last week was made well in advance before Rohit Sharma joined the team. This means no last-minute changes were needed in the broadcasting schedule. However, the BCCI now has less than 48 hours to decide whether the Delhi-Railways Ranji Trophy match will be broadcast or not.<o:p></o:p>
(Inputs from Agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Virat Kohli, who last represented Delhi in the Ranji Trophy in 2012 will play in the domestic red-ball format against Railways in Elite Group D.

Virat Kohli’s fans could be left disappointed as the star India batter is set to return to the Ranji Trophy contest for the first time in over a decade on Thursday (Jan 30). Kohli, who last represented Delhi in the Ranji Trophy in 2012 will play in the domestic red-ball format against Railways in Elite Group D. However, according to a report, the match at the Arun Jaitley Stadium between Delhi and Railways will not be telecast or live-streamed on any digital platform. Kohli fans disappointed According to a report from a leading news outlet, Kohli’s Ranji Trophy match will not be telecasted on the Sports 18 Network, which holds the rights to broadcast India’s domestic matches. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has already allocated telecast slots to Karnataka vs. Haryana, Bengal vs. Punjab, and Jammu & Kashmir vs. Baroda, meaning there could be logistical issues in broadcasting the match. The current broadcaster will either have to drop one match from the already allotted slot to accommodate the Kohli contest on TV or make necessary arrangements for live streaming on the digital platform. ALSO READ | Meet Naomi Girma - 24-year-old Olympic gold winner and world's first million-dollar female footballer "We don't know if BCCI will make any last-minute arrangements since Kohli is playing but we haven't been intimated anything about the broadcast of this game. Normally all big centres get one live game allotted (TV or streaming). We had a game against Tamil Nadu which was aired live. The roster for broadcast is set months in advance," a DDCA official told PTI. It is also reported that the BCCI decision to broadcast Mumbai’s Ranji Trophy match last week was made well in advance before Rohit Sharma joined the team. This means no last-minute changes were needed in the broadcasting schedule. However, the BCCI now has less than 48 hours to decide whether the Delhi-Railways Ranji Trophy match will be broadcast or not. (Inputs from Agencies)

Virat Kohli Ranji Trophy return: Delhi-Railways contest unlikely to be telecast, live streamed - Report

The Miami Heat indefinitely suspended Jimmy Butler on Monday after the disgruntled forward walked out of a practice session, reportedly when he was told he would be coming off the bench for the NBA team.
<h2>Butler suspended</h2>
"The Miami Heat are suspending Jimmy Butler without pay effective immediately for an indefinite period to last no fewer than five games," the Heat said in a statement posted on X.
"The suspension is due to a continued pattern of disregard of team rules, engaging in conduct detrimental to the team and intentionally withholding services.
"This includes walking out of practice earlier today."
It's the third time this month the Heat have suspended the 35-year-old Butler, who had been expected back on Monday from a two-game ban for missing a team flight.
He had previously been suspended for seven games for "multiple instances of conduct detrimental to the team".
Butler, in his 15th NBA campaign, sparked the Heat into the 2020 NBA Finals, where they lost to the Los Angeles Lakers, and the 2023 finals, where they lost to Denver.
But even before his first suspension, Butler had indicated he wanted a trade. Initially resistant, the Heat have said the would "listen to offers" from other teams for the six-time All-Star.
The minimum five-game suspension announced on Monday would run through the NBA's mid-season trade deadline on February 6.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-is-naomi-girma-24-years-old-million-dollar-female-footballer-most-expensive-female-football-player-chelsea-women-olympic-gold-winner-8659154" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Meet Naomi Girma - 24-year-old Olympic gold winner and world's first million-dollar female footballer</a>
The Miami Herald reported that the Heat would determine whether the suspension would continue after that if Butler remains on their roster after the deadline.
Miami's star guard Tyler Herro said the team is getting used to playing amid the uncertainty surrounding Butler.
"It kind of feels normal now at this point," Herro said in comments reported by the Herald. "It's kind of just what it is. Nothing is guaranteed, so we just got to be ready to roll with whatever cards we're dealt with tonight."
Just past the halfway point in the regular season, the Heat are eighth in the Eastern Conference with their playoff chances in the balance.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Sports, NBA: It's the third time this month the Heat have suspended the 35-year-old Jimmy Butler, who had been expected back on Monday from a two-game ban.

The Miami Heat indefinitely suspended Jimmy Butler on Monday after the disgruntled forward walked out of a practice session, reportedly when he was told he would be coming off the bench for the NBA team. Butler suspended "The Miami Heat are suspending Jimmy Butler without pay effective immediately for an indefinite period to last no fewer than five games," the Heat said in a statement posted on X. "The suspension is due to a continued pattern of disregard of team rules, engaging in conduct detrimental to the team and intentionally withholding services. "This includes walking out of practice earlier today." It's the third time this month the Heat have suspended the 35-year-old Butler, who had been expected back on Monday from a two-game ban for missing a team flight. He had previously been suspended for seven games for "multiple instances of conduct detrimental to the team". Butler, in his 15th NBA campaign, sparked the Heat into the 2020 NBA Finals, where they lost to the Los Angeles Lakers, and the 2023 finals, where they lost to Denver. But even before his first suspension, Butler had indicated he wanted a trade. Initially resistant, the Heat have said the would "listen to offers" from other teams for the six-time All-Star. The minimum five-game suspension announced on Monday would run through the NBA's mid-season trade deadline on February 6. ALSO READ | Meet Naomi Girma - 24-year-old Olympic gold winner and world's first million-dollar female footballer The Miami Herald reported that the Heat would determine whether the suspension would continue after that if Butler remains on their roster after the deadline. Miami's star guard Tyler Herro said the team is getting used to playing amid the uncertainty surrounding Butler. "It kind of feels normal now at this point," Herro said in comments reported by the Herald. "It's kind of just what it is. Nothing is guaranteed, so we just got to be ready to roll with whatever cards we're dealt with tonight." Just past the halfway point in the regular season, the Heat are eighth in the Eastern Conference with their playoff chances in the balance. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

NBA: Miami Heat suspend star forward Jimmy Butler indefinitely for walking out of practice session

Brazilian superstar footballer Neymar&rsquo;s Saudi Pro League adventure has come to an end after Al-Hilal announced his departure late Monday (Jan 27) evening. Neymar, the most expensive football transfer in the world, moved to the Saudi Pro League from Paris Saint-Germain in a $94mn deal in August 2023, but will now have to find a new club. It is reported that Neymar could join his boyhood club Santos in his native Brazil, with a few European clubs also showing interest.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Al-Hilal, Neymar part ways<o:p></o:p></h2>
"The club expresses its thanks and appreciation to Neymar for what he has provided throughout his career with Al-Hilal, and wish the player success in his career," Al-Hilal posted on their social media.<o:p></o:p>
Largely troubled by injuries during his sting, Neymar played only seven times for the Saudi Pro League side where he was reportedly earning a salary of around $104 million a year. However, an injury in a FIFA World Cup qualifier in October 2023 against Uruguay saw him get ruled out for a year. As a result, he also missed the Copa America in the United States in 2024 due to the anterior cruciate ligament.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-is-naomi-girma-24-years-old-million-dollar-female-footballer-most-expensive-female-football-player-chelsea-women-olympic-gold-winner-8659154" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Meet Naomi Girma - 24-year-old Olympic gold winner and world's first million-dollar female footballer</a>
The Brazilian in 2017 became the most expensive transferred player after his $250mn move to PSG from Barcelona. The controversial move did not go well with the Catalonian club as he was heavily criticised. <o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Neymar going to Santos?<o:p></o:p></h2>
According to reports, Neymar could be on his way to Santos, a club where he began his career before moving to Europe. The Brazilian is also close to his home side which was also home to Pele in his playing days. A return to Barcelona has also been rumoured, but considering the club&rsquo;s financial situation, he is unlikely to move to Europe.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

Sports, Football: Brazilian superstar footballer Neymar’s Saudi Pro League adventure has come to an end after Al-Hilal announced his departure late Monday (Jan 27) evening.

Brazilian superstar footballer Neymar’s Saudi Pro League adventure has come to an end after Al-Hilal announced his departure late Monday (Jan 27) evening. Neymar, the most expensive football transfer in the world, moved to the Saudi Pro League from Paris Saint-Germain in a $94mn deal in August 2023, but will now have to find a new club. It is reported that Neymar could join his boyhood club Santos in his native Brazil, with a few European clubs also showing interest. Al-Hilal, Neymar part ways "The club expresses its thanks and appreciation to Neymar for what he has provided throughout his career with Al-Hilal, and wish the player success in his career," Al-Hilal posted on their social media. Largely troubled by injuries during his sting, Neymar played only seven times for the Saudi Pro League side where he was reportedly earning a salary of around $104 million a year. However, an injury in a FIFA World Cup qualifier in October 2023 against Uruguay saw him get ruled out for a year. As a result, he also missed the Copa America in the United States in 2024 due to the anterior cruciate ligament. ALSO READ | Meet Naomi Girma - 24-year-old Olympic gold winner and world's first million-dollar female footballer The Brazilian in 2017 became the most expensive transferred player after his $250mn move to PSG from Barcelona. The controversial move did not go well with the Catalonian club as he was heavily criticised. Neymar going to Santos? According to reports, Neymar could be on his way to Santos, a club where he began his career before moving to Europe. The Brazilian is also close to his home side which was also home to Pele in his playing days. A return to Barcelona has also been rumoured, but considering the club’s financial situation, he is unlikely to move to Europe.

Neymar's Saudi adventure ends as Al-Hilal and the Brazilian part ways

Former Belgian international Radja Nainggolan was arrested on Monday as part of an investigation into cocaine trafficking via the port of Antwerp, the Brussels prosecutor's office said.
<h2>Nainggolan arrested</h2>
Police arrested 16 suspects including the footballer, after carrying out a series of morning raids across the country, the office told AFP.
"The investigation concerns alleged facts of importation of cocaine from South America to Europe, via the port of Antwerp, and its redistribution in Belgium," prosecutors said in a statement.
In addition to 2.7 kilos (six pounds) of cocaine, police seized around half a million euros in cash and gold coins, a stash of jewellery, and luxury watches including two worth some 360,000 euros each.
They further seized three firearms, two bullet-proof vests and 14 vehicles, prosecutors said.
Antwerp-born Nainggolan, 36, came out of retirement last week to join a lower-tier Belgian side -- adding a final spell to a long career that saw him play 30 matches and score six goals for the national team.
Having played for Italian teams Cagliari, Inter Milan and Roma, he had been without a club since last summer before signing with Belgian second-tier outfit Lokeren last week.
He marked his debut with a goal at the weekend in Lokeren's 1-1 home draw to K. Lierse.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-is-naomi-girma-24-years-old-million-dollar-female-footballer-most-expensive-female-football-player-chelsea-women-olympic-gold-winner-8659154" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Meet Naomi Girma - 24-year-old Olympic gold winner and world's first million-dollar female footballer</a>
He had previously returned from Italy to Belgium in the summer of 2021 to join Royal Antwerp.
A tattooed midfielder known for his off-field antics, he parted ways with Antwerp in early 2023.
A few months earlier he had been suspended for being caught smoking an electronic cigarette on the bench, according to Belgian media.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Sports, Football: Police arrested 16 suspects including the footballer, after carrying out a series of morning raids across the country, the office told AFP.

Former Belgian international Radja Nainggolan was arrested on Monday as part of an investigation into cocaine trafficking via the port of Antwerp, the Brussels prosecutor's office said. Nainggolan arrested Police arrested 16 suspects including the footballer, after carrying out a series of morning raids across the country, the office told AFP. "The investigation concerns alleged facts of importation of cocaine from South America to Europe, via the port of Antwerp, and its redistribution in Belgium," prosecutors said in a statement. In addition to 2.7 kilos (six pounds) of cocaine, police seized around half a million euros in cash and gold coins, a stash of jewellery, and luxury watches including two worth some 360,000 euros each. They further seized three firearms, two bullet-proof vests and 14 vehicles, prosecutors said. Antwerp-born Nainggolan, 36, came out of retirement last week to join a lower-tier Belgian side -- adding a final spell to a long career that saw him play 30 matches and score six goals for the national team. Having played for Italian teams Cagliari, Inter Milan and Roma, he had been without a club since last summer before signing with Belgian second-tier outfit Lokeren last week. He marked his debut with a goal at the weekend in Lokeren's 1-1 home draw to K. Lierse. ALSO READ | Meet Naomi Girma - 24-year-old Olympic gold winner and world's first million-dollar female footballer He had previously returned from Italy to Belgium in the summer of 2021 to join Royal Antwerp. A tattooed midfielder known for his off-field antics, he parted ways with Antwerp in early 2023. A few months earlier he had been suspended for being caught smoking an electronic cigarette on the bench, according to Belgian media. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Belgian footballer Radja Nainggolan arrested in cocaine trafficking probe

Naomi Girma created history after being signed up for $1.12 million by the United Kingdom-based Chelsea football club, as reported by the BBC. She is now the world's most expensive female footballer and the first millionaire female football player as well. She surpassed Zambia's Rachael Kundananji who had joined US-based Bay FC for erstwhile transfer fee of $860,000.&nbsp;
<h2>Who is Naomi Girma?</h2>
Born on June 14, 2000, the 24-year-old is the first player of Ethiopian heritage to represent the US women's national team. She was born to Ethiopian parents in San Jose, California. She played as a defender for Stanford Cardinal University team and shot to fame in the last two years.
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POV: You've just signed one of the best defenders in the world. 🌍 <a href="https://t.co/bIZo1pOXp6">pic.twitter.com/bIZo1pOXp6</a>
&mdash; Chelsea FC Women (@ChelseaFCW) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChelseaFCW/status/1883898109258039742?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2025</a></blockquote>
Girma was the first draft pick of National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) in 2022 and was picked by San Diego Wave.
She made her international debut for the US women's national team an year later and was part of the 2024 Paris Olympics gold medal winning team as well.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/premier-league-pressure-mounts-on-ange-postecoglou-after-leicester-stun-tottenham-hotpsur-8656417">Premier League: Pressure mounts on Ange Postecoglou after Leicester stun Tottenham Hotpsur</a>
In her rookie season with the San Diego Wave, she was named the NWSL Rookie of the Year as well as the Defender of the Year. In 2023, she was again named Defender of Year in NWSL.
She was also nominated for the women's player of the year award in the 2024 FIFA Best Awards and was named in the Best FIFA Women's XI as well.
As a teenager, Girma played for Central Valley Crossfire club in San Jose, where coach Bob Joyce pushed her to get into the Olympic Development Programme.
She later represented the US in under-14s and went on to play for Pioneer High School and then Stanford University.
Girma is a staunch supporter of mental health after her university team goalkeeper and friend Katie Meyer died by suicide in March 2022.
"Mental health is really important to me," Girma said, as reported by BBC. "I lost a friend to suicide, so that opened my eyes to the lack of resources and support that we have as athletes.
"It's something that's really important to me and something that I've worked really hard on," she added.

Naomi Girma, signed by Chelsea women's for $1.12 million, is now the world's most expensive female footballer and the first millionaire female football player as well. Sports

Naomi Girma created history after being signed up for $1.12 million by the United Kingdom-based Chelsea football club, as reported by the BBC. She is now the world's most expensive female footballer and the first millionaire female football player as well. She surpassed Zambia's Rachael Kundananji who had joined US-based Bay FC for erstwhile transfer fee of $860,000. Who is Naomi Girma? Born on June 14, 2000, the 24-year-old is the first player of Ethiopian heritage to represent the US women's national team. She was born to Ethiopian parents in San Jose, California. She played as a defender for Stanford Cardinal University team and shot to fame in the last two years. POV: You've just signed one of the best defenders in the world. 🌍 pic.twitter.com/bIZo1pOXp6 — Chelsea FC Women (@ChelseaFCW) January 27, 2025 Girma was the first draft pick of National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) in 2022 and was picked by San Diego Wave. She made her international debut for the US women's national team an year later and was part of the 2024 Paris Olympics gold medal winning team as well. Also Read: Premier League: Pressure mounts on Ange Postecoglou after Leicester stun Tottenham Hotpsur In her rookie season with the San Diego Wave, she was named the NWSL Rookie of the Year as well as the Defender of the Year. In 2023, she was again named Defender of Year in NWSL. She was also nominated for the women's player of the year award in the 2024 FIFA Best Awards and was named in the Best FIFA Women's XI as well. As a teenager, Girma played for Central Valley Crossfire club in San Jose, where coach Bob Joyce pushed her to get into the Olympic Development Programme. She later represented the US in under-14s and went on to play for Pioneer High School and then Stanford University. Girma is a staunch supporter of mental health after her university team goalkeeper and friend Katie Meyer died by suicide in March 2022. "Mental health is really important to me," Girma said, as reported by BBC. "I lost a friend to suicide, so that opened my eyes to the lack of resources and support that we have as athletes. "It's something that's really important to me and something that I've worked really hard on," she added.

Meet Naomi Girma - 24-year-old Olympic gold winner and world's first million-dollar female footballer

Jannik Sinner leaves Melbourne being talked about as a potential tennis great but first comes a hearing into his doping case at sport's highest court that could see him banned for up to two years.&nbsp;The Italian swept past Alexander Zverev 6-3, 7-6 (7/4), 6-3 on Sunday in a clash of the top seeds to win back-to-back Australian Opens and shore up his status as the runaway world number one.<o:p></o:p>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/australia-open-2025-winners-prize-money-how-much-jannik-sinner-madison-keys-alexander-zverev-aryna-sabalenka-novak-djokovic-earn-8656391" rel="dofollow">Australia Open 2025 Prize Money: How much did Jannik Sinner, Alexander Zverev, Madison Keys and Aryna Sabalenka earn?</a>
He also won the US Open last year, fast building a case for greatness. <o:p></o:p>But the 23-year-old's career has been dogged for the past nine months by a major doping scandal that should soon reach its conclusion.<o:p></o:p>
He twice tested positive for traces of the steroid clostebol in March last year but was cleared by an independent tribunal of wrongdoing.<o:p></o:p>
The World Anti-Doping Agency appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) and is seeking a ban of up to two years.<o:p></o:p>
The Italian, who denies knowingly doping, will have his hearing on April 16-17.<o:p></o:p>
Sinner says that the drug entered his system when his physio used a spray containing it to treat a cut, then provided massage and sports therapy to the player.<o:p></o:p>
Sinner, who is on a staggering 21-match win streak, said he was clear in himself that he was innocent but has admitted the case is never far from his mind.<o:p></o:p>
One of his two coaches, Darren Cahill, said in Melbourne that "nobody's bulletproof" but that Sinner "deals with it as well as anybody that I've ever seen deal with pressure".<o:p></o:p>
"I think to a large extent he finds playing tennis matches to be his safe place," Cahill added. "That's where he can go and do his thing and feel like this is what he knows, this is what he understands, this is what he's good at. <o:p></o:p>
"It's become a home for him to step on to the court and play tennis."<o:p></o:p>
<h2>Aiming for more<o:p></o:p></h2>
The next Grand Slam of the year is the French Open, which starts in May, a month after the CAS hearing.<o:p></o:p>
Sinner is the undoubted king of hard courts but he has yet to go beyond the semi-finals on the clay of Roland Garros or on the grass of Wimbledon.<o:p></o:p>
"It's for sure one thing I always think about," Sinner said after his latest Australian Open triumph.<o:p></o:p>
"You have to be a complete player, not only one surface, but on also the other two.<o:p></o:p>
"I believe last year was not a bad season at all on clay and also on grass. I can do better, yes, but let's see. <o:p></o:p>
"On hard court I feel more comfortable. I think that we can see," he added after becoming the youngest man to go back-to-back at Melbourne Park since Jim Courier in 1993.<o:p></o:p>
"But I take it as positive because on the other surfaces I still have to improve, I have to see how it works.<o:p></o:p>
"I'm going to put a lot of energy in that, trying to find the right ways, and hopefully to go far also in the other Grand Slams that are not played on hard court."
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Sports, Tennis: Sinner beat Zverev on Sunday in a clash of the top seeds to win back-to-back Australian Opens and shore up his status as the runaway world number one.

Jannik Sinner leaves Melbourne being talked about as a potential tennis great but first comes a hearing into his doping case at sport's highest court that could see him banned for up to two years. The Italian swept past Alexander Zverev 6-3, 7-6 (7/4), 6-3 on Sunday in a clash of the top seeds to win back-to-back Australian Opens and shore up his status as the runaway world number one. Also read | Australia Open 2025 Prize Money: How much did Jannik Sinner, Alexander Zverev, Madison Keys and Aryna Sabalenka earn? He also won the US Open last year, fast building a case for greatness. But the 23-year-old's career has been dogged for the past nine months by a major doping scandal that should soon reach its conclusion. He twice tested positive for traces of the steroid clostebol in March last year but was cleared by an independent tribunal of wrongdoing. The World Anti-Doping Agency appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) and is seeking a ban of up to two years. The Italian, who denies knowingly doping, will have his hearing on April 16-17. Sinner says that the drug entered his system when his physio used a spray containing it to treat a cut, then provided massage and sports therapy to the player. Sinner, who is on a staggering 21-match win streak, said he was clear in himself that he was innocent but has admitted the case is never far from his mind. One of his two coaches, Darren Cahill, said in Melbourne that "nobody's bulletproof" but that Sinner "deals with it as well as anybody that I've ever seen deal with pressure". "I think to a large extent he finds playing tennis matches to be his safe place," Cahill added. "That's where he can go and do his thing and feel like this is what he knows, this is what he understands, this is what he's good at. "It's become a home for him to step on to the court and play tennis." Aiming for more The next Grand Slam of the year is the French Open, which starts in May, a month after the CAS hearing. Sinner is the undoubted king of hard courts but he has yet to go beyond the semi-finals on the clay of Roland Garros or on the grass of Wimbledon. "It's for sure one thing I always think about," Sinner said after his latest Australian Open triumph. "You have to be a complete player, not only one surface, but on also the other two. "I believe last year was not a bad season at all on clay and also on grass. I can do better, yes, but let's see. "On hard court I feel more comfortable. I think that we can see," he added after becoming the youngest man to go back-to-back at Melbourne Park since Jim Courier in 1993. "But I take it as positive because on the other surfaces I still have to improve, I have to see how it works. "I'm going to put a lot of energy in that, trying to find the right ways, and hopefully to go far also in the other Grand Slams that are not played on hard court." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Australian Open 2025: Doping hearing clouds Jannik Sinner’s Melbourne feat

Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim believes the club's 63-year-old goalkeeper coach has a better chance of making his team than outcast striker Marcus Rashford.<o:p></o:p>
England international Rashford has not played for United since December 12 and was again left out of the squad for the 1-0 win at Fulham on Sunday.<o:p></o:p>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/barcelona-hit-seven-past-miserable-valencia-to-find-la-liga-form-8656705" rel="dofollow">Barcelona hit seven past miserable Valencia to find La Liga form</a>
Even with United struggling to make headway against Fulham, Amorim insisted goalkeeping coach Jorge Vital would have been a better option.<o:p></o:p>
"Today on the bench we missed a bit of pace to change the game but I prefer it like this, I will put (in) Vital before I put (in) a player who doesn't give the maximum every day, so I will not change in that department," said Amorim.<o:p></o:p>
He added: "It's always the same reason (why Rashford is not playing).<o:p></o:p>
"The reason is the training, what I think a footballer should do in training, in life and every day. If things don't change, I will not change.<o:p></o:p>
"It's the same situation for every player. If you do the maximum and the right things then we can use every player."<o:p></o:p>
Despite the impasse between club and player, the 27-year-old Rashford still took to social media to congratulate his team-mates for their 1-0 victory.<o:p></o:p>
"Congratulations on the win lads," he posted on Instagram.<o:p></o:p>
United's goal at Craven Cottage came in the 78th minute through defender Lisandro Martinez whose long-range deflected effort looped over Fulham goalkeeper Bernd Leno.
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.
&nbsp;

Sports, Football: England international Rashford has not played for United since December 12 and was again left out of the squad for the 1-0 win at Fulham on Sunday.

Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim believes the club's 63-year-old goalkeeper coach has a better chance of making his team than outcast striker Marcus Rashford. England international Rashford has not played for United since December 12 and was again left out of the squad for the 1-0 win at Fulham on Sunday. Also read | Barcelona hit seven past miserable Valencia to find La Liga form Even with United struggling to make headway against Fulham, Amorim insisted goalkeeping coach Jorge Vital would have been a better option. "Today on the bench we missed a bit of pace to change the game but I prefer it like this, I will put (in) Vital before I put (in) a player who doesn't give the maximum every day, so I will not change in that department," said Amorim. He added: "It's always the same reason (why Rashford is not playing). "The reason is the training, what I think a footballer should do in training, in life and every day. If things don't change, I will not change. "It's the same situation for every player. If you do the maximum and the right things then we can use every player." Despite the impasse between club and player, the 27-year-old Rashford still took to social media to congratulate his team-mates for their 1-0 victory. "Congratulations on the win lads," he posted on Instagram. United's goal at Craven Cottage came in the 78th minute through defender Lisandro Martinez whose long-range deflected effort looped over Fulham goalkeeper Bernd Leno. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Ruben Amorim says 63-year-old coach has better chance of playing than Rashford

Barcelona blew away a miserable Valencia 7-1 on Sunday to get back on track in La Liga with a ruthless victory.<o:p></o:p>
Fermin Lopez struck twice for the Catalans in the first half, along with goals from Frenkie de Jong, Ferran Torres and Raphinha which gave Barcelona a commanding five-goal lead at the break.<o:p></o:p>
Hugo Duro pulled one back early in the second half before Robert Lewandowski pounced for Barca, followed by a Cesar Tarrega own goal, with the third-placed hosts earning just their second win in their last nine league matches.<o:p></o:p>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/premier-league-pressure-mounts-on-ange-postecoglou-after-leicester-stun-tottenham-hotpsur-8656417" rel="dofollow">Premier League: Pressure mounts on Ange Postecoglou after Leicester stun Tottenham Hotpsur</a>
Hansi Flick's side trail La Liga leaders Real Madrid by seven points and second-placed Atletico Madrid by three.<o:p></o:p>
"I think in La Liga we were in a bad dynamic and we needed this win, it's very important and now we have to keep fighting," Lopez told DAZN. "The coach says everyone in the team is important, and whoever is playing we have to be up to it -- that's what being a team is and that's how we can compete for the title. <o:p></o:p>
"There's still a long way to go and we will fight until the end."<o:p></o:p>
Flick shuffled his pack against Valencia in order to spark a response given the club's poor domestic form.<o:p></o:p>
The coach began with Lewandowski and Ronald Araujo on the bench, while Pedri was absent because of a stomach bug, leading to De Jong, Ferran Torres and the superb Lopez all starting.<o:p></o:p>
It took just three minutes for De Jong to open the scoring, with teenage star Lamine Yamal crossing for him in the area virtually unmarked, and he fired home.<o:p></o:p>
Barcelona soon had their second, with Torres tucking home from Alejandro Balde's cross, in similar fashion to the first goal but from the opposite flank.<o:p></o:p>
The hosts moved three goals ahead in the 14th minute when Lopez clipped a fine ball over the top for Raphinha to run onto.<o:p></o:p>
The Brazilian winger rounded Giorgi Mamardashvili and rolled home for his 12th league goal of the season.<o:p></o:p>
Valencia, without the suspended Cristhian Mosquera, were struggling badly in defence and Barcelona broke in seemingly at will.<o:p></o:p>
Lopez collected a perfectly measured Pau Cubarsi long pass for the fourth and although it was initially ruled offside, the decision was corrected by VAR.<o:p></o:p>
Valencia thought they had won a penalty when Wojciech Szczesny brought down Hugo Duro but play was eventually brought back for a foul on Jules Kounde after another video review.<o:p></o:p>
Lopez rattled home the fifth on the volley before half-time when Raphinha's effort hit the post and fell nicely for him with the goalkeeper stranded.
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Sports, Football: Lopez struck twice for Barcelona in the first half, along with goals from De Jong, Torres and Raphinha, giving them a commanding five-goal lead at the break.

Barcelona blew away a miserable Valencia 7-1 on Sunday to get back on track in La Liga with a ruthless victory. Fermin Lopez struck twice for the Catalans in the first half, along with goals from Frenkie de Jong, Ferran Torres and Raphinha which gave Barcelona a commanding five-goal lead at the break. Hugo Duro pulled one back early in the second half before Robert Lewandowski pounced for Barca, followed by a Cesar Tarrega own goal, with the third-placed hosts earning just their second win in their last nine league matches. Also read | Premier League: Pressure mounts on Ange Postecoglou after Leicester stun Tottenham Hotpsur Hansi Flick's side trail La Liga leaders Real Madrid by seven points and second-placed Atletico Madrid by three. "I think in La Liga we were in a bad dynamic and we needed this win, it's very important and now we have to keep fighting," Lopez told DAZN. "The coach says everyone in the team is important, and whoever is playing we have to be up to it -- that's what being a team is and that's how we can compete for the title. "There's still a long way to go and we will fight until the end." Flick shuffled his pack against Valencia in order to spark a response given the club's poor domestic form. The coach began with Lewandowski and Ronald Araujo on the bench, while Pedri was absent because of a stomach bug, leading to De Jong, Ferran Torres and the superb Lopez all starting. It took just three minutes for De Jong to open the scoring, with teenage star Lamine Yamal crossing for him in the area virtually unmarked, and he fired home. Barcelona soon had their second, with Torres tucking home from Alejandro Balde's cross, in similar fashion to the first goal but from the opposite flank. The hosts moved three goals ahead in the 14th minute when Lopez clipped a fine ball over the top for Raphinha to run onto. The Brazilian winger rounded Giorgi Mamardashvili and rolled home for his 12th league goal of the season. Valencia, without the suspended Cristhian Mosquera, were struggling badly in defence and Barcelona broke in seemingly at will. Lopez collected a perfectly measured Pau Cubarsi long pass for the fourth and although it was initially ruled offside, the decision was corrected by VAR. Valencia thought they had won a penalty when Wojciech Szczesny brought down Hugo Duro but play was eventually brought back for a foul on Jules Kounde after another video review. Lopez rattled home the fifth on the volley before half-time when Raphinha's effort hit the post and fell nicely for him with the goalkeeper stranded. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Barcelona hit seven past miserable Valencia to find La Liga form

Former India cricketer Harbhajan Singh, currently part of the DP World IL T20 commentary team, believes Shubman Gill can become India Captain in the future, but he must first return to form in all formats.

Harbhajan: Shubman needs to score more to become captain

Jannik Sinner is wary of "physical beast" Alexander Zverev as the Italian bids to join an elite group with back-to-back Australian Open titles in a final Sunday that pits the world's top two players.<o:p></o:p>
The ice-cool runaway world number one goes into the Melbourne Park decider on a 20-match win streak, dropping just two sets in his six matches so far.<o:p></o:p>
The final starts at 7:30pm (0830 GMT).<o:p></o:p>
Sinner is favourite to secure a third Grand Slam crown and second at the Australian Open after his maiden triumph over Daniil Medvedev last year.<o:p></o:p>
Only three other men have managed the feat on Rod Laver Arena since the turn of the century -- Andre Agassi, Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic.<o:p></o:p>
But the 23-year-old, who suffered from cramp in his semi-final with Ben Shelton, offered Germany's Zverev a glimmer of hope ahead of their showdown.<o:p></o:p>
"No," he replied when asked if he had become unbeatable after his run in Melbourne, on the back of winning eight titles last year, including the US Open and season-ending ATP Finals. "I know that I put a lot of work in. I know I just try to stay calm, never taking things for granted. Just well-prepared, to be honest.<o:p></o:p>
"Every day is a big challenge. Every day you have a different opponent," he added.<o:p></o:p>
"Sometimes you have some issues and then trying to understand that whatever works best for that day and trying to go for it. Everyone makes mistakes. Nobody's perfect."
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/australian-open-2025-madison-keys-from-teenage-prodigy-to-grand-slam-champion-at-29-8653380" rel="dofollow">Australian Open 2025: Madison Keys-From teenage prodigy to Grand Slam champion at 29</a>
That will prick the ears of world number two Zverev, long seen as the sport's most unfulfilled talent, without a Grand Slam title after a decade of trying.<o:p></o:p>
The German has bulked up in recent months and is also on a red-hot streak, winning 16 of his past 17 matches dating back to his title run at November's Paris Masters.<o:p></o:p>
He holds a 4-2 record over the Italian, but the 27-year-old knows all too well that's he's fallen short when it's mattered most on tennis's biggest stages.<o:p></o:p>
Zverev blew a two-set advantage against Dominic Thiem in the 2020 US Open final and gave up a 2-1 lead in the French Open title match against Carlos Alcaraz last year.<o:p></o:p>
Despite a decade of trying they remain his Grand Slam highlights.<o:p></o:p>
<h2>'Tough battle'<o:p></o:p></h2>
After the French Open disappointment, he reunited with revered trainer Jez Green and has been focused on reaching peak fitness to be able to take on players like Sinner and Alcaraz.<o:p></o:p>
"I think I said it also after the French Open final, I got tired against Carlos. I simply got tired in the fourth and fifth set," he said. "Yes, there was some unlucky moments. In general, I got tired, and I didn't want that to happen this year anymore.<o:p></o:p>
"Look, I think Jannik has been the best player in the world for the past 12 months," he added. "There's no doubt about it. Won two Grand Slams, has been very, very stable in those regards.<o:p></o:p>
"I'm sure it's going to be a tough battle on Sunday."<o:p></o:p>
Sinner's coach Darren Cahill said it was no surprise for him to see his young charge back in the final, but they were wary of the threat posed by Zverev's overarching desire to finally win a Slam.<o:p></o:p>
"He's a physical beast," Cahill said. "He's put those years of work into his body. He is a great athlete and has a great five-set record.<o:p></o:p>
"They're both physically prepared. They're both incredible athletes," he added. &nbsp;"It's the number one and two in the world so it's the perfect final as far as the rankings are concerned."
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Sports, Tennis: Sinner is favourite to secure a third Grand Slam crown and second at the Australian Open after his maiden triumph over Daniil Medvedev last year.

Jannik Sinner is wary of "physical beast" Alexander Zverev as the Italian bids to join an elite group with back-to-back Australian Open titles in a final Sunday that pits the world's top two players. The ice-cool runaway world number one goes into the Melbourne Park decider on a 20-match win streak, dropping just two sets in his six matches so far. The final starts at 7:30pm (0830 GMT). Sinner is favourite to secure a third Grand Slam crown and second at the Australian Open after his maiden triumph over Daniil Medvedev last year. Only three other men have managed the feat on Rod Laver Arena since the turn of the century -- Andre Agassi, Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic. But the 23-year-old, who suffered from cramp in his semi-final with Ben Shelton, offered Germany's Zverev a glimmer of hope ahead of their showdown. "No," he replied when asked if he had become unbeatable after his run in Melbourne, on the back of winning eight titles last year, including the US Open and season-ending ATP Finals. "I know that I put a lot of work in. I know I just try to stay calm, never taking things for granted. Just well-prepared, to be honest. "Every day is a big challenge. Every day you have a different opponent," he added. "Sometimes you have some issues and then trying to understand that whatever works best for that day and trying to go for it. Everyone makes mistakes. Nobody's perfect." Also read | Australian Open 2025: Madison Keys-From teenage prodigy to Grand Slam champion at 29 That will prick the ears of world number two Zverev, long seen as the sport's most unfulfilled talent, without a Grand Slam title after a decade of trying. The German has bulked up in recent months and is also on a red-hot streak, winning 16 of his past 17 matches dating back to his title run at November's Paris Masters. He holds a 4-2 record over the Italian, but the 27-year-old knows all too well that's he's fallen short when it's mattered most on tennis's biggest stages. Zverev blew a two-set advantage against Dominic Thiem in the 2020 US Open final and gave up a 2-1 lead in the French Open title match against Carlos Alcaraz last year. Despite a decade of trying they remain his Grand Slam highlights. 'Tough battle' After the French Open disappointment, he reunited with revered trainer Jez Green and has been focused on reaching peak fitness to be able to take on players like Sinner and Alcaraz. "I think I said it also after the French Open final, I got tired against Carlos. I simply got tired in the fourth and fifth set," he said. "Yes, there was some unlucky moments. In general, I got tired, and I didn't want that to happen this year anymore. "Look, I think Jannik has been the best player in the world for the past 12 months," he added. "There's no doubt about it. Won two Grand Slams, has been very, very stable in those regards. "I'm sure it's going to be a tough battle on Sunday." Sinner's coach Darren Cahill said it was no surprise for him to see his young charge back in the final, but they were wary of the threat posed by Zverev's overarching desire to finally win a Slam. "He's a physical beast," Cahill said. "He's put those years of work into his body. He is a great athlete and has a great five-set record. "They're both physically prepared. They're both incredible athletes," he added. "It's the number one and two in the world so it's the perfect final as far as the rankings are concerned." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Preview: Sinner faces Zverev in 'near perfect' Australian Open 2025 final

Erling Haaland inspired a Manchester City fightback from 1-0 down to beat Chelsea 3-1 and move into the Premier League top four at the Blues' expense on Saturday.<o:p></o:p>
City recovered from a nightmare start to Abdukodir Khusanov's debut as he gifted the visitors the opening goal, scored by Noni Madueke.<o:p></o:p>
Josko Gvardiol levelled for Pep Guardiola's men before Haaland showed his blend of strength and skill to chip in 22 minutes from time.<o:p></o:p>
The Norwegian then turned provider for the in-form Phil Foden to secure City's fourth win in five league games after just one in their previous nine.<o:p></o:p>
Chelsea have won just once in their last seven Premier League games to fall to sixth and will once again reflect on the need to upgrade on goalkeeper Robert Sanchez after his positioning led to Haaland's crucial goal.<o:p></o:p>
City's victory puts them back in pole position to qualify for next season's Champions League, just days before they try to save themselves in this season's competition.<o:p></o:p>
The English champions must beat Club Brugge on Wednesday to reach the playoff round after collapsing from 2-0 up to lose 4-2 at Paris Saint-Germain in midweek.<o:p></o:p>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mbappes-hat-trick-against-valladolid-steers-madrid-to-four-point-lead-at-top-8654472" rel="dofollow">Mbappe's hat trick against Valladolid steers Madrid to four-point lead at top</a>
"After (conceding the goal), emotionally, we came back," said Guardiola. "It's really, really important for our final Wednesday and for the next games."<o:p></o:p>
Guardiola threw in new signings Khusanov and Omar Marmoush for their debuts.<o:p></o:p>
But that decision backfired spectacularly in the case of Khusanov inside three minutes.<o:p></o:p>
The first ever Uzbek to play in the Premier League did not properly connect with an attempted header back towards his own goal and Nicolas Jackson pounced to tee up Madueke for a tap in.<o:p></o:p>
Moments later Khusanov was fortunate to get away with only a yellow card for chopping down Cole Palmer.<o:p></o:p>
By contrast, Marmoush was showing why only Bayern Munich's Harry Kane had scored more Bundesliga goals than him this season prior to a &pound;59 million ($72.6 million) move from Eintracht Frankfurt.<o:p></o:p>
The Egyptian thought he had equalised when he pounced to fire home the rebound after Sanchez parried Ilkay Gundogan's effort, but was flagged offside.<o:p></o:p>
"I think in the first half you could see he has something special. That is obviously the reason Manchester City bought him," said Haaland of his new strike partner.<o:p></o:p>
<h2>City go direct<o:p></o:p></h2>
Gvardiol's marauding runs from left-back were causing City's biggest threat.<o:p></o:p>
Chelsea did not heed a warning as the Croatian prodded inches wide with his left foot after storming into the box.<o:p></o:p>
Just before half-time, Gvardiol had a simple task for his fifth Premier League goal of the season.<o:p></o:p>
Matheus Nunes this time made the break from full-back and after he was denied by Sanchez, the ball fell for Gvardiol to roll into an empty net.<o:p></o:p>
Guardiola cut his losses with Khusanov at the start of the second period. He was replaced by John Stones and City were rarely troubled thereafter at the back.<o:p></o:p>
Marmoush was close to a perfect start to his City career when he blasted wide from Haaland's pass after the Norwegian was picked out by a long ball from Ederson.<o:p></o:p>
But again, Chelsea did not learn their lesson. Moments later from another Ederson clearance, Haaland outmuscled Trevoh Chalobah and then chipped Sanchez, who had charged out of his goal and ended up in no man's land.<o:p></o:p>
"I think the second goal changed the mood," said Maresca. "We trust Robert for sure but in the same moment he is aware that he is making mistakes."<o:p></o:p>
Despite City's struggles, Haaland has remained a reliable source of goals as he took his tally for the season to 24, six of which have come in the last six games.<o:p></o:p>
And he created he third goal as his layoff sent Foden clear to slot home his sixth goal in his last four league games.<o:p></o:p>
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Sports, Football: City's victory puts them back in pole position to qualify for next season's UCL, just days before they try to save themselves in this season's competition.

Erling Haaland inspired a Manchester City fightback from 1-0 down to beat Chelsea 3-1 and move into the Premier League top four at the Blues' expense on Saturday. City recovered from a nightmare start to Abdukodir Khusanov's debut as he gifted the visitors the opening goal, scored by Noni Madueke. Josko Gvardiol levelled for Pep Guardiola's men before Haaland showed his blend of strength and skill to chip in 22 minutes from time. The Norwegian then turned provider for the in-form Phil Foden to secure City's fourth win in five league games after just one in their previous nine. Chelsea have won just once in their last seven Premier League games to fall to sixth and will once again reflect on the need to upgrade on goalkeeper Robert Sanchez after his positioning led to Haaland's crucial goal. City's victory puts them back in pole position to qualify for next season's Champions League, just days before they try to save themselves in this season's competition. The English champions must beat Club Brugge on Wednesday to reach the playoff round after collapsing from 2-0 up to lose 4-2 at Paris Saint-Germain in midweek. Also read | Mbappe's hat trick against Valladolid steers Madrid to four-point lead at top "After (conceding the goal), emotionally, we came back," said Guardiola. "It's really, really important for our final Wednesday and for the next games." Guardiola threw in new signings Khusanov and Omar Marmoush for their debuts. But that decision backfired spectacularly in the case of Khusanov inside three minutes. The first ever Uzbek to play in the Premier League did not properly connect with an attempted header back towards his own goal and Nicolas Jackson pounced to tee up Madueke for a tap in. Moments later Khusanov was fortunate to get away with only a yellow card for chopping down Cole Palmer. By contrast, Marmoush was showing why only Bayern Munich's Harry Kane had scored more Bundesliga goals than him this season prior to a £59 million ($72.6 million) move from Eintracht Frankfurt. The Egyptian thought he had equalised when he pounced to fire home the rebound after Sanchez parried Ilkay Gundogan's effort, but was flagged offside. "I think in the first half you could see he has something special. That is obviously the reason Manchester City bought him," said Haaland of his new strike partner. City go direct Gvardiol's marauding runs from left-back were causing City's biggest threat. Chelsea did not heed a warning as the Croatian prodded inches wide with his left foot after storming into the box. Just before half-time, Gvardiol had a simple task for his fifth Premier League goal of the season. Matheus Nunes this time made the break from full-back and after he was denied by Sanchez, the ball fell for Gvardiol to roll into an empty net. Guardiola cut his losses with Khusanov at the start of the second period. He was replaced by John Stones and City were rarely troubled thereafter at the back. Marmoush was close to a perfect start to his City career when he blasted wide from Haaland's pass after the Norwegian was picked out by a long ball from Ederson. But again, Chelsea did not learn their lesson. Moments later from another Ederson clearance, Haaland outmuscled Trevoh Chalobah and then chipped Sanchez, who had charged out of his goal and ended up in no man's land. "I think the second goal changed the mood," said Maresca. "We trust Robert for sure but in the same moment he is aware that he is making mistakes." Despite City's struggles, Haaland has remained a reliable source of goals as he took his tally for the season to 24, six of which have come in the last six games. And he created he third goal as his layoff sent Foden clear to slot home his sixth goal in his last four league games. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

PL: Erling Haaland leads Manchester City revival to beat Chelsea

Kylian Mbappe continued his rich vein of form with a hat-trick on Saturday to power Real Madrid to a 3-0 win over Valladolid and a four-point lead at the top of La Liga.<o:p></o:p>
Second-place Atletico Madrid drew 1-1 at home earlier against Villarreal, while Barcelona, third, trail Los Blancos by 10 points before hosting Valencia on Sunday.<o:p></o:p>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bundesliga-harry-kane-scores-as-bayern-munich-go-six-points-clear-at-top-8654139" rel="dofollow">Bundesliga: Harry Kane scores as Bayern Munich go six points clear at top</a>
Mbappe has hit his devastating best in recent weeks after struggling for consistency following his summer switch from Paris Saint-Germain.<o:p></o:p>
The French superstar climbed to 15 league goals for the season, trailing only Barcelona's Robert Lewandowski, on 16.<o:p></o:p>
Mbappe's first Madrid treble helped Madrid ease to a simple away victory against bottom side Valladolid, without suspended Brazil international Vinicius Junior.<o:p></o:p>
"Mbappe is bringing a lot to the team, he's found form in the last couple of months and obviously for us that's a plus, he's a player with a lot of quality," Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti told reporters. "We've got an advantage in the league but there's too far to go to say it's over, we've got a small advantage and I hope we can take advantage of it in the coming games."<o:p></o:p>
The hosts made early inroads, with Madrid stopper Thibaut Courtois saving from David Torres' header, but that was about as good as it got for Valladolid.<o:p></o:p>
Madrid started to chip away at their opponents and made the breakthrough in the 30th minute when Jude Bellingham nudged a deflected pass through to Mbappe, who curled into the top corner.<o:p></o:p>
The former PSG star has scored in each of his last five games for his new club and is looking every part the potent attacking force Madrid were hoping he would be.<o:p></o:p>
Madrid were controlling the game without creating too many chances, but with Mbappe in his purple patch, he only needed one more to put the game to bed.<o:p></o:p>
Rodrygo Goes slipped in the forward who curled a low effort past goalkeeper Karl Hein from a similar position to his first goal in the 57th minute.<o:p></o:p>
Mbappe completed his hat-trick from the penalty spot in the final stages, after Mario Martin lunged into a tackle on Bellingham in the area.<o:p></o:p>
The Valladolid midfielder took the ball but then smashed into the England international's calf studs-up and was dismissed.<o:p></o:p>
Mbappe sent Hein the wrong way from the spot for his 12th goal in his last 11 games across all competitions.<o:p></o:p>
"The important thing is to keep adding points, you have to fight in all games, compete for them," added Ancelotti. "The team managed the game well. We weren't in a hurry to try and create, and once we opened the scoring the game was less complicated than usual."
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Sports, Football: Mbappe's first Madrid treble helped Madrid ease to a simple away victory against bottom side Valladolid, without suspended Brazil international Vinicius Junior.

Kylian Mbappe continued his rich vein of form with a hat-trick on Saturday to power Real Madrid to a 3-0 win over Valladolid and a four-point lead at the top of La Liga. Second-place Atletico Madrid drew 1-1 at home earlier against Villarreal, while Barcelona, third, trail Los Blancos by 10 points before hosting Valencia on Sunday. Also read | Bundesliga: Harry Kane scores as Bayern Munich go six points clear at top Mbappe has hit his devastating best in recent weeks after struggling for consistency following his summer switch from Paris Saint-Germain. The French superstar climbed to 15 league goals for the season, trailing only Barcelona's Robert Lewandowski, on 16. Mbappe's first Madrid treble helped Madrid ease to a simple away victory against bottom side Valladolid, without suspended Brazil international Vinicius Junior. "Mbappe is bringing a lot to the team, he's found form in the last couple of months and obviously for us that's a plus, he's a player with a lot of quality," Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti told reporters. "We've got an advantage in the league but there's too far to go to say it's over, we've got a small advantage and I hope we can take advantage of it in the coming games." The hosts made early inroads, with Madrid stopper Thibaut Courtois saving from David Torres' header, but that was about as good as it got for Valladolid. Madrid started to chip away at their opponents and made the breakthrough in the 30th minute when Jude Bellingham nudged a deflected pass through to Mbappe, who curled into the top corner. The former PSG star has scored in each of his last five games for his new club and is looking every part the potent attacking force Madrid were hoping he would be. Madrid were controlling the game without creating too many chances, but with Mbappe in his purple patch, he only needed one more to put the game to bed. Rodrygo Goes slipped in the forward who curled a low effort past goalkeeper Karl Hein from a similar position to his first goal in the 57th minute. Mbappe completed his hat-trick from the penalty spot in the final stages, after Mario Martin lunged into a tackle on Bellingham in the area. The Valladolid midfielder took the ball but then smashed into the England international's calf studs-up and was dismissed. Mbappe sent Hein the wrong way from the spot for his 12th goal in his last 11 games across all competitions. "The important thing is to keep adding points, you have to fight in all games, compete for them," added Ancelotti. "The team managed the game well. We weren't in a hurry to try and create, and once we opened the scoring the game was less complicated than usual." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Mbappe's hat trick against Valladolid steers Madrid to four-point lead at top

Harry Kane scored as Bayern Munich won 2-1 at Freiburg on Saturday to move six points clear of Bayer Leverkusen, who threw away a two-goal lead to draw 2-2 at RB Leipzig.
Kane and English compatriot Eric Dier created the opener in the 15th minute.
Dier found Kane who drilled a low shot through the fingers of Freiburg goalkeeper Noah Atubolu.&nbsp;
The goal was Kane's first from open play since mid-November and his 17th in 17 league games this season.
Bayern doubled their lead after 54 minutes when Kim Min-jae outmuscled Atubolu and headed in a Joshua Kimmich corner.&nbsp;
Freiburg made Bayern sweat when Matthias Ginter headed in a corner with 22 minutes remaining, but the German giants held firm to bounce back from Wednesday's surprise 3-0 Champions League loss at Feyenoord.
"We've played better games than that," Kimmich told Sky Germany.
"But that is exactly what you need sometimes. We deserved to win."
Bayern's win means defending champions Leverkusen are now six points behind the league leaders, after they dropped points in the league for the first time since early November at Leipzig.
Florian Wirtz impressed throughout and was instrumental in Leverkusen's opener.&nbsp;
The Germany midfielder shrugged off two defenders with a jink and shot against the post, with Patrik Schick well placed to tap in and put Leverkusen in front after 18 minutes.
Leverkusen's controversial second, scored on the 36-minute mark, was also created by Wirtz.&nbsp;
Near the sideline, the 21-year-old won the ball from Leipzig's David Raum, while appearing to sink his studs into the defender's leg.&nbsp;
With Raum on the ground, Wirtz dribbled goalwards and cut the ball back to Aleix Garcia, who calmly slotted home.
Raum had his revenge just five minutes later, thumping in a deflected free kick off the crossbar to cut Leverkusen's advantage.&nbsp;
Leipzig equalised from another set piece with five minutes remaining. Xavi Simons sent a spiralling free kick into the box which Leverkusen defender Edmond Tapsoba turned into his own net.
"We're not satisfied, things could have been better but they could have been worse. We'll keep going," said Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso.
Schick added: "We weren't effective enough up front and Leipzig played well today. Not many teams win here."
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ahead-of-champions-trophy-2025-pak-to-host-new-zealand-south-africa-for-odi-tri-series-8652625" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Ahead of Champions Trophy 2025, Pak to host New Zealand, South Africa for ODI tri-series</a>
<h2>Dortmund struggles continue</h2>
In their first match since sacking coach Nuri Sahin, 10-man Borussia Dortmund also let a two-goal lead slip to draw 2-2 at home against Werder Bremen.
Dortmund's chances took an early hit when centre-back Nico Schlotterbeck was red carded for a last-man foul after 21 minutes.&nbsp;
The hosts were dangerous despite the disadvantage and took the lead seven minutes later when Julian Brandt found Serhou Guirassy who headed in his eighth league goal of the season.
Dortmund looked in charge when Guirassy's 51st-minute cross was turned into his own net by Bremen defender Marco Friedl, but Bremen levelled things up with two goals in eight minutes.&nbsp;
Former Dortmund midfielder Leonardo Bittencourt unleashed a rocket from outside the box before Marvin Ducksch caught the hosts napping, running in behind and scoring to level things up.&nbsp;
Dortmund sporting director Lars Ricken confirmed after the game that interim coach Mike Tullberg would remain in charge for Wednesday's home Champions League clash with Shakhtar Donetsk.&nbsp;
Elsewhere, Mainz continued their impressive run this season, beating Stuttgart 2-0 at home thanks to goals from Nelson Weiper and Anthony Caci.&nbsp;
Relegation candidates last campaign, Mainz's win sends them sixth, one point behind Stuttgart and Leipzig and in contention for a Champions League place.
A stoppage time goal from Keven Schlotterbeck took Augsburg to a 2-1 home win over Heidenheim.&nbsp;
In Saturday's late game, Borussia Moenchengladbach host last-placed Bochum.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Sports, Football: Bayern Munich doubled their lead after 54 minutes when Kim Min-jae outmuscled Atubolu and headed in a Joshua Kimmich corner. 

Harry Kane scored as Bayern Munich won 2-1 at Freiburg on Saturday to move six points clear of Bayer Leverkusen, who threw away a two-goal lead to draw 2-2 at RB Leipzig. Kane and English compatriot Eric Dier created the opener in the 15th minute. Dier found Kane who drilled a low shot through the fingers of Freiburg goalkeeper Noah Atubolu. The goal was Kane's first from open play since mid-November and his 17th in 17 league games this season. Bayern doubled their lead after 54 minutes when Kim Min-jae outmuscled Atubolu and headed in a Joshua Kimmich corner. Freiburg made Bayern sweat when Matthias Ginter headed in a corner with 22 minutes remaining, but the German giants held firm to bounce back from Wednesday's surprise 3-0 Champions League loss at Feyenoord. "We've played better games than that," Kimmich told Sky Germany. "But that is exactly what you need sometimes. We deserved to win." Bayern's win means defending champions Leverkusen are now six points behind the league leaders, after they dropped points in the league for the first time since early November at Leipzig. Florian Wirtz impressed throughout and was instrumental in Leverkusen's opener. The Germany midfielder shrugged off two defenders with a jink and shot against the post, with Patrik Schick well placed to tap in and put Leverkusen in front after 18 minutes. Leverkusen's controversial second, scored on the 36-minute mark, was also created by Wirtz. Near the sideline, the 21-year-old won the ball from Leipzig's David Raum, while appearing to sink his studs into the defender's leg. With Raum on the ground, Wirtz dribbled goalwards and cut the ball back to Aleix Garcia, who calmly slotted home. Raum had his revenge just five minutes later, thumping in a deflected free kick off the crossbar to cut Leverkusen's advantage. Leipzig equalised from another set piece with five minutes remaining. Xavi Simons sent a spiralling free kick into the box which Leverkusen defender Edmond Tapsoba turned into his own net. "We're not satisfied, things could have been better but they could have been worse. We'll keep going," said Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso. Schick added: "We weren't effective enough up front and Leipzig played well today. Not many teams win here." ALSO READ | Ahead of Champions Trophy 2025, Pak to host New Zealand, South Africa for ODI tri-series Dortmund struggles continue In their first match since sacking coach Nuri Sahin, 10-man Borussia Dortmund also let a two-goal lead slip to draw 2-2 at home against Werder Bremen. Dortmund's chances took an early hit when centre-back Nico Schlotterbeck was red carded for a last-man foul after 21 minutes. The hosts were dangerous despite the disadvantage and took the lead seven minutes later when Julian Brandt found Serhou Guirassy who headed in his eighth league goal of the season. Dortmund looked in charge when Guirassy's 51st-minute cross was turned into his own net by Bremen defender Marco Friedl, but Bremen levelled things up with two goals in eight minutes. Former Dortmund midfielder Leonardo Bittencourt unleashed a rocket from outside the box before Marvin Ducksch caught the hosts napping, running in behind and scoring to level things up. Dortmund sporting director Lars Ricken confirmed after the game that interim coach Mike Tullberg would remain in charge for Wednesday's home Champions League clash with Shakhtar Donetsk. Elsewhere, Mainz continued their impressive run this season, beating Stuttgart 2-0 at home thanks to goals from Nelson Weiper and Anthony Caci. Relegation candidates last campaign, Mainz's win sends them sixth, one point behind Stuttgart and Leipzig and in contention for a Champions League place. A stoppage time goal from Keven Schlotterbeck took Augsburg to a 2-1 home win over Heidenheim. In Saturday's late game, Borussia Moenchengladbach host last-placed Bochum. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Bundesliga: Harry Kane scores as Bayern Munich go six points clear at top

Cody Gakpo struck twice as Premier League leaders Liverpool thrashed Ipswich 4-1 to maintain their six-point lead over Arsenal, who survived Myles Lewis-Skelly's controversial red card to snatch a 1-0 win at Wolves on Saturday.
Arne Slot's side cruised to their second successive league victory thanks to a first half goal-spree at Anfield.
Dominik Szoboszlai's 11th-minute opener fizzed past Ipswich goalkeeper Christian Walton from Ibrahima Konate's assist.
Mohamed Salah doubled Liverpool's advantage in the 35th minute with a fierce strike for his 23rd goal in all competitions this term.
It was also the Egypt forward's 100th Premier League goal at Anfield.
Gakpo killed off Ipswich before half-time when he bundled home after Walton parried Szoboszlai's shot in the 44th minute.
The Dutch forward netted again in the 66th minute, heading past Walton from Trent Alexander-Arnold's cross.
Jacob Greaves' stoppage-time diving header was little consolation for third-bottom Ipswich, who have conceded 10 goals in their last two league games.
Liverpool's 16th win from 22 league games this season keeps them on course for a first English title since 2020.
The quadruple-chasing Reds have a game in hand on second-placed Arsenal, who left it late before keeping the pressure on the leaders.
Arsenal, without ill captain Martin Odegaard, had Lewis-Skelly contentiously sent off for tripping Matt Doherty to stop a Wolves counter-attack in the 43rd minute.
It was a cynical challenge but Arsenal were furious, protesting that the tackle was too far from goal to warrant a red card.
The Premier League Match Centre confirmed on social media that the 18-year-old defender was sent off for "serious foul play".
But Wolves were also reduced t0 10 men in the 70th minute when Joao Gomes earned a second booking for a foul on Jurrien Timber.
And Italy defender Riccardo Calafiori won it for Arsenal in the 74th minute with a half-volley that went in off the far post.
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<h2>Moyes celebrates milestone</h2>
Dango Ouattara hit a hat-trick as Bournemouth extended their club-record unbeaten run to dent Nottingham Forest's top four charge with a 5-0 demolition at the Vitality Stadium.
Andoni Iraola's side are undefeated in their last 11 league games and up to sixth place after ending third-placed Forest's own impressive run of eight top-flight matches without losing.
Justin Kluivert struck for Bournemouth in the ninth minute for his sixth goal in his last four games.
Ouattara increased Bournemouth's lead in the 55th minute when he nodded in from Kluivert's cross.
The Burkina Faso winger bagged his second six minutes later and completed a memorable treble three minutes from full-time.
There was still time for Antoine Semenyo to net in the final minutes as Bournemouth followed last weekend's superb 4-1 win at Newcastle with their biggest victory this season.
Alexander Isak starred as Newcastle moved into fourth place with a 3-1 win at bottom of the table Southampton.
Jan Bednarek put Southampton ahead in the 10th minute with a powerful header from James Bree's cross.
But Isak levelled from the penalty spot in the 26th minute after Joe Aribo fouled the in-form striker.
Isak made it 11 goals from his last eight games, and 19 for the season, when he finished a flowing move by converting Jacob Murphy's 30th-minute pass.
Anthony Gordon's pass sent Sandro Tonali sprinting clear to bag Newcastle's third goal in the 51st minute.
Everton boss David Moyes celebrated becoming the third manager to reach 700 Premier League games with a 1-0 win at Brighton.
Only Arsene Wenger at Arsenal and Alex Ferguson at Manchester United have managed more Premier League matches than Moyes, whose team earned their second consecutive victory to climb seven points clear of the relegation zone.
Brighton defender Joel Veltman's handball conceded a 42nd-minute penalty that Iliman Ndiaye slotted home.
Troubled champions Manchester City host top four rivals Chelsea in Saturday's late game, with Pep Guardiola's side looking for a win that would lift them into fourth place.
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Sports, Football: Mohamed Salah doubled Liverpool's advantage in the 35th minute with a fierce strike for his 23rd goal in all competitions this term.

Cody Gakpo struck twice as Premier League leaders Liverpool thrashed Ipswich 4-1 to maintain their six-point lead over Arsenal, who survived Myles Lewis-Skelly's controversial red card to snatch a 1-0 win at Wolves on Saturday. Arne Slot's side cruised to their second successive league victory thanks to a first half goal-spree at Anfield. Dominik Szoboszlai's 11th-minute opener fizzed past Ipswich goalkeeper Christian Walton from Ibrahima Konate's assist. Mohamed Salah doubled Liverpool's advantage in the 35th minute with a fierce strike for his 23rd goal in all competitions this term. It was also the Egypt forward's 100th Premier League goal at Anfield. Gakpo killed off Ipswich before half-time when he bundled home after Walton parried Szoboszlai's shot in the 44th minute. The Dutch forward netted again in the 66th minute, heading past Walton from Trent Alexander-Arnold's cross. Jacob Greaves' stoppage-time diving header was little consolation for third-bottom Ipswich, who have conceded 10 goals in their last two league games. Liverpool's 16th win from 22 league games this season keeps them on course for a first English title since 2020. The quadruple-chasing Reds have a game in hand on second-placed Arsenal, who left it late before keeping the pressure on the leaders. Arsenal, without ill captain Martin Odegaard, had Lewis-Skelly contentiously sent off for tripping Matt Doherty to stop a Wolves counter-attack in the 43rd minute. It was a cynical challenge but Arsenal were furious, protesting that the tackle was too far from goal to warrant a red card. The Premier League Match Centre confirmed on social media that the 18-year-old defender was sent off for "serious foul play". But Wolves were also reduced t0 10 men in the 70th minute when Joao Gomes earned a second booking for a foul on Jurrien Timber. And Italy defender Riccardo Calafiori won it for Arsenal in the 74th minute with a half-volley that went in off the far post. ALSO READ | Ahead of Champions Trophy 2025, Pak to host New Zealand, South Africa for ODI tri-series Moyes celebrates milestone Dango Ouattara hit a hat-trick as Bournemouth extended their club-record unbeaten run to dent Nottingham Forest's top four charge with a 5-0 demolition at the Vitality Stadium. Andoni Iraola's side are undefeated in their last 11 league games and up to sixth place after ending third-placed Forest's own impressive run of eight top-flight matches without losing. Justin Kluivert struck for Bournemouth in the ninth minute for his sixth goal in his last four games. Ouattara increased Bournemouth's lead in the 55th minute when he nodded in from Kluivert's cross. The Burkina Faso winger bagged his second six minutes later and completed a memorable treble three minutes from full-time. There was still time for Antoine Semenyo to net in the final minutes as Bournemouth followed last weekend's superb 4-1 win at Newcastle with their biggest victory this season. Alexander Isak starred as Newcastle moved into fourth place with a 3-1 win at bottom of the table Southampton. Jan Bednarek put Southampton ahead in the 10th minute with a powerful header from James Bree's cross. But Isak levelled from the penalty spot in the 26th minute after Joe Aribo fouled the in-form striker. Isak made it 11 goals from his last eight games, and 19 for the season, when he finished a flowing move by converting Jacob Murphy's 30th-minute pass. Anthony Gordon's pass sent Sandro Tonali sprinting clear to bag Newcastle's third goal in the 51st minute. Everton boss David Moyes celebrated becoming the third manager to reach 700 Premier League games with a 1-0 win at Brighton. Only Arsene Wenger at Arsenal and Alex Ferguson at Manchester United have managed more Premier League matches than Moyes, whose team earned their second consecutive victory to climb seven points clear of the relegation zone. Brighton defender Joel Veltman's handball conceded a 42nd-minute penalty that Iliman Ndiaye slotted home. Troubled champions Manchester City host top four rivals Chelsea in Saturday's late game, with Pep Guardiola's side looking for a win that would lift them into fourth place. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Premier League: Cody Gakpo stars as Liverpool rout Ipswich, Arsenal survive red card drama to beat Wolves

India&rsquo;s Tilak Varma played a match-winning knock in the Chennai T20I as they beat England by two wickets on Saturday (Jan 25). Needing 166 runs to win, it was Varma and his resilient knock at the top that helped India down the visitors as they now take a 2-0 lead in the five-match series. <o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Varma leads from front<o:p></o:p></h2>
Playing at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, India did not have the best of starts to their innings as they chased 166 runs target. The hosts were 19/2 in the Powerplay as they lost Abhishek Sharma (12) and Sanju Samson (5) early. Skipper Suryakumar Yadav also did not impress having followed his duck in Kolkata with a 12-run knock before he was dismissed by Brydon Carse. <o:p></o:p>
The Indian team then lost wickets at consistent intervals before Washington Sundar&rsquo;s 26-run helped India get back into the contest. From 78/5 India went on to win the match by two wickets as the likes of Arshdeep Singh (6) and Ravi Bishnoi (unbeaten 9) played an important role in India&rsquo;s win.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ahead-of-champions-trophy-2025-pak-to-host-new-zealand-south-africa-for-odi-tri-series-8652625" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Ahead of Champions Trophy 2025, Pak to host New Zealand, South Africa for ODI tri-series</a> 
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Buttler leads after England batting collapse</h2>
Batting first, England did not have the best of starts as they lost Philip Salt (4) and Ben Duckett (3) inside the opening four overs of the England innings. Skipper Jos Buttler then got a good helping hand from Harry Brook (13) and Jamie Smith (22) as England built on their innings. Buttler was the top scorer with 45 runs in 30 deliveries which included 3 sixes and 2 fours. <o:p></o:p>
Brydon Carse also contributed with 31 off 17 and helped England reach a total of 165/9 in their 20 overs.<o:p></o:p>
The two teams will next meet on Tuesday (Jan 28) with India standing an opportunity to win the T20I series. <o:p></o:p>

Sports, Cricket: Needing 166 runs to win, it was Tilak Varma and his resilient knock at the top that helped India down the visitors as they now take a 2-0 lead in the series.

India’s Tilak Varma played a match-winning knock in the Chennai T20I as they beat England by two wickets on Saturday (Jan 25). Needing 166 runs to win, it was Varma and his resilient knock at the top that helped India down the visitors as they now take a 2-0 lead in the five-match series. Varma leads from front Playing at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, India did not have the best of starts to their innings as they chased 166 runs target. The hosts were 19/2 in the Powerplay as they lost Abhishek Sharma (12) and Sanju Samson (5) early. Skipper Suryakumar Yadav also did not impress having followed his duck in Kolkata with a 12-run knock before he was dismissed by Brydon Carse. The Indian team then lost wickets at consistent intervals before Washington Sundar’s 26-run helped India get back into the contest. From 78/5 India went on to win the match by two wickets as the likes of Arshdeep Singh (6) and Ravi Bishnoi (unbeaten 9) played an important role in India’s win. ALSO READ | Ahead of Champions Trophy 2025, Pak to host New Zealand, South Africa for ODI tri-series Buttler leads after England batting collapse Batting first, England did not have the best of starts as they lost Philip Salt (4) and Ben Duckett (3) inside the opening four overs of the England innings. Skipper Jos Buttler then got a good helping hand from Harry Brook (13) and Jamie Smith (22) as England built on their innings. Buttler was the top scorer with 45 runs in 30 deliveries which included 3 sixes and 2 fours. Brydon Carse also contributed with 31 off 17 and helped England reach a total of 165/9 in their 20 overs. The two teams will next meet on Tuesday (Jan 28) with India standing an opportunity to win the T20I series.

IND vs ENG: Tilak Varma leads from front as India beat England in Chennai T20I; take 2-0 lead in series

The West Indies gained a slender nine-run lead over Pakistan Saturday as spinners dominated the opening day of the second Test in Multan, with Noman Ali achieving a hat trick for the home side.
Jomel Warrican took 4-43 and Gudakesh Motie 3-49 as Pakistan were bowled out for 154 at the close, replying to the West Indian first innings total of 163.&nbsp;
Left-armer Noman became the first Pakistan spinner to register a Test hat trick during his 6-41 as the West Indies were bowled out at the stroke of lunch in 41.1 overs, having won the toss and batted.
"I am honoured to have a hat trick to my name," said Noman. "We need to bowl them out quickly and not give costly runs like in the first innings."
But the visitors hit back with a blitz of their own as 16 wickets fell to spinners -- the most by that type of bowling on the opening day of a Test.&nbsp;
The previous record was 14 between England and South Africa at Leeds in 1907.
West Indian bowling coach James Franklin said the team had put up a "fighting performance".
"If we could post a 200 or plus total then there is a real belief that Jomel and Gudakesh can come and bowl us to victory," said Franklin, a former New Zealand allrounder.
Only Mohammad Rizwan (49) and Saud Shakeel (32) batted with confidence for the home side, adding 68 for the fifth wicket before Pakistan slumped from 119-4 to 154 all out -- losing the last six wickets for 35 runs.
Fast bowler Kemar Roach dismissed openers Muhammad Hurraira (nine) and Shan Masood (15), while Motie sent back Babar Azam (one) and Kamran Ghulam (16) to leave Pakistan at 51-4.
In the post-tea session, Shakeel was smartly caught in the deep by Roach -- who hurt his groin but completed the catch -- while Rizwan was stumped, both falling to Warrican.
<h2>Left reeling</h2>
Motie had Salman Agha for nine while the last man Kashif Ali was run out without scoring.
Earlier, the West Indies were left reeling at 7-38 with Sajid Khan 2-64 and Noman doing the damage.
It could have been worse for the tourists had Motie -- who top scored with a career-best 55 -- not added an invaluable 68 runs for the last wicket with Warrican, who scored 36 not out with two sixes.
Motie also added 41 for the ninth wicket with Roach (25) to delay the lunch break before Noman grabbed the last two wickets for his eighth five-wicket haul in an innings.
ALSO READ | Australian Open: Zverev reacts at crowd's jeering after Djokovic pulls out, says &lsquo;please guys, don't boo&rsquo;
Pakistan employed the same spin-heavy tactics which earned them a 127-run win in the first Test -- also in Multan -- with the ball turning from the first over.
Noman came on to bowl as the first change, and trapped West Indian skipper Kraigg Brathwaite leg before for nine to spark a collapse which saw the tourists slump from 32-2 to 38-8 off just 14 deliveries.
Noman dismissed Justin Greaves for one, then Tevin Imlach and Kevin Sinclair off successive deliveries to become the fifth Pakistan bowler to grab a Test hat trick.
Fast bowlers Wasim Akram (two hat tricks against Sri Lanka in 1999), Abdul Razzaq (against Sri Lanka in 2000), Mohammad Sami (also against Sri Lanka, in 2002), and Naseem Shah (against Bangladesh in 2020) achieved the feat for Pakistan previously.
Off-spinner Sajid dismissed debutant Amir Jangoo and Alick Athanaze -- both without scoring -- while Abrar Ahmed accounted for Kavem Hodge for 21.
Debutant pacer Kashif had Mikyle Louis for four in his first over.&nbsp;
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Sports, Cricket: Motie also added 41 for the ninth wicket with Roach (25) to delay the lunch break before Noman grabbed the last two wickets for his eighth five-wicket haul. 

The West Indies gained a slender nine-run lead over Pakistan Saturday as spinners dominated the opening day of the second Test in Multan, with Noman Ali achieving a hat trick for the home side. Jomel Warrican took 4-43 and Gudakesh Motie 3-49 as Pakistan were bowled out for 154 at the close, replying to the West Indian first innings total of 163. Left-armer Noman became the first Pakistan spinner to register a Test hat trick during his 6-41 as the West Indies were bowled out at the stroke of lunch in 41.1 overs, having won the toss and batted. "I am honoured to have a hat trick to my name," said Noman. "We need to bowl them out quickly and not give costly runs like in the first innings." But the visitors hit back with a blitz of their own as 16 wickets fell to spinners -- the most by that type of bowling on the opening day of a Test. The previous record was 14 between England and South Africa at Leeds in 1907. West Indian bowling coach James Franklin said the team had put up a "fighting performance". "If we could post a 200 or plus total then there is a real belief that Jomel and Gudakesh can come and bowl us to victory," said Franklin, a former New Zealand allrounder. Only Mohammad Rizwan (49) and Saud Shakeel (32) batted with confidence for the home side, adding 68 for the fifth wicket before Pakistan slumped from 119-4 to 154 all out -- losing the last six wickets for 35 runs. Fast bowler Kemar Roach dismissed openers Muhammad Hurraira (nine) and Shan Masood (15), while Motie sent back Babar Azam (one) and Kamran Ghulam (16) to leave Pakistan at 51-4. In the post-tea session, Shakeel was smartly caught in the deep by Roach -- who hurt his groin but completed the catch -- while Rizwan was stumped, both falling to Warrican. Left reeling Motie had Salman Agha for nine while the last man Kashif Ali was run out without scoring. Earlier, the West Indies were left reeling at 7-38 with Sajid Khan 2-64 and Noman doing the damage. It could have been worse for the tourists had Motie -- who top scored with a career-best 55 -- not added an invaluable 68 runs for the last wicket with Warrican, who scored 36 not out with two sixes. Motie also added 41 for the ninth wicket with Roach (25) to delay the lunch break before Noman grabbed the last two wickets for his eighth five-wicket haul in an innings. ALSO READ | Australian Open: Zverev reacts at crowd's jeering after Djokovic pulls out, says ‘please guys, don't boo’ Pakistan employed the same spin-heavy tactics which earned them a 127-run win in the first Test -- also in Multan -- with the ball turning from the first over. Noman came on to bowl as the first change, and trapped West Indian skipper Kraigg Brathwaite leg before for nine to spark a collapse which saw the tourists slump from 32-2 to 38-8 off just 14 deliveries. Noman dismissed Justin Greaves for one, then Tevin Imlach and Kevin Sinclair off successive deliveries to become the fifth Pakistan bowler to grab a Test hat trick. Fast bowlers Wasim Akram (two hat tricks against Sri Lanka in 1999), Abdul Razzaq (against Sri Lanka in 2000), Mohammad Sami (also against Sri Lanka, in 2002), and Naseem Shah (against Bangladesh in 2020) achieved the feat for Pakistan previously. Off-spinner Sajid dismissed debutant Amir Jangoo and Alick Athanaze -- both without scoring -- while Abrar Ahmed accounted for Kavem Hodge for 21. Debutant pacer Kashif had Mikyle Louis for four in his first over. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

PAK vs WI: West Indies earn slender lead over Pakistan after Noman hat trick

Former India cricketer Vivek Razdan, currently part of the DP World IL T20 commentary team, believes that the Desert Vipers are the strongest team in the tournament this season. However, Razdan also says that defending champions MI Emirates cannot be counted out.

Vivek Razdan picks his favourites for the IL T20 title

Aryna Sabalenka said she was proud to have reached three Australian Open finals in a row but admitted after losing Saturday's decider to Madison Keys: "It's trophy or nothing."<o:p></o:p>
The world number one and two-time defending champion was favourite to beat Keys but the American 19th seed won 6-3, 2-6, 7-5 to clinch a first Grand Slam title.<o:p></o:p>
It torpedoed Sabalenka's dreams of becoming the first woman for 26 years to win a third straight Melbourne Park singles crown.<o:p></o:p>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-2025-madison-keys-unlocks-aryna-sabalenka-to-clinch-maiden-grand-slam-title-8653008" rel="dofollow">Australian Open 2025: Madison Keys unlocks Aryna Sabalenka to clinch maiden Grand Slam title</a>
"I think when you get to the point of finals, it's trophy or nothing. Nobody remembers the (losing) finalist," said the 26-year-old Belarusian, who is the reigning US Open champion.<o:p></o:p>
"I mean, at this point, I go for titles.<o:p></o:p>
"But of course I have to be anyway proud of myself with three finals in a row. That's something crazy.<o:p></o:p>
"I hope that next year I'll come back as a better player and I'll hold Daphne (the trophy) one more time."<o:p></o:p>
Sabalenka was gracious in defeat, saying Keys was "super aggressive" in winning the first set and played towards the end of an absorbing final with "nothing to lose".<o:p></o:p>
But in the immediate aftermath she admitted it had been a struggle to control her emotions.<o:p></o:p>
She smashed her racquet and buried her head in a towel after her 20-match win streak at Melbourne Park was ended when it mattered most. <o:p></o:p>
"There definitely was a bit of frustration because I was so close to achieving something crazy," she said. "When you're out there, you're fighting, but it seems like everything is going not the way you really want to go.<o:p></o:p>
"I just needed to throw those negative emotions at the end just so I could give a speech, not stand there being disrespectful."

Sports, Tennis: The world number one and two-time defending champion was favourite to beat Keys but the American 19th seed won 6-3, 2-6, 7-5 to clinch a first Grand Slam title.

Aryna Sabalenka said she was proud to have reached three Australian Open finals in a row but admitted after losing Saturday's decider to Madison Keys: "It's trophy or nothing." The world number one and two-time defending champion was favourite to beat Keys but the American 19th seed won 6-3, 2-6, 7-5 to clinch a first Grand Slam title. It torpedoed Sabalenka's dreams of becoming the first woman for 26 years to win a third straight Melbourne Park singles crown. Also read | Australian Open 2025: Madison Keys unlocks Aryna Sabalenka to clinch maiden Grand Slam title "I think when you get to the point of finals, it's trophy or nothing. Nobody remembers the (losing) finalist," said the 26-year-old Belarusian, who is the reigning US Open champion. "I mean, at this point, I go for titles. "But of course I have to be anyway proud of myself with three finals in a row. That's something crazy. "I hope that next year I'll come back as a better player and I'll hold Daphne (the trophy) one more time." Sabalenka was gracious in defeat, saying Keys was "super aggressive" in winning the first set and played towards the end of an absorbing final with "nothing to lose". But in the immediate aftermath she admitted it had been a struggle to control her emotions. She smashed her racquet and buried her head in a towel after her 20-match win streak at Melbourne Park was ended when it mattered most. "There definitely was a bit of frustration because I was so close to achieving something crazy," she said. "When you're out there, you're fighting, but it seems like everything is going not the way you really want to go. "I just needed to throw those negative emotions at the end just so I could give a speech, not stand there being disrespectful."

Australian Open 2025: Sabalenka says ‘trophy or nothing’ after losing Melbourne crown

Madison Keys clinched her maiden Grand Slam title on Saturday (Jan 25) after she defeated defending two-time champion Aryna Sabalenka in the Australian Open 2025 final. The 6-3, 2-6, 7-5 win for Keys also saw her break Sabalenka&rsquo;s dominating run of 20 straight wins in all competitions. In doing so Keys becomes the first woman from the United States since Sofia Kenin in 2020 to win the Australian Open.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Keys unlocks Sabalenka<o:p></o:p></h2>
In a tightly contested game at the Rod Laver Arena, Sabalenka lost the opening set 6-3 where she was broken twice. One of the weak links for the Belarusian was her second serve as she failed to convert it into a winner. There were four double faults from the number one seed before she made a comprehensive comeback.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>
The second set was a more straightforward affair as Sabalenka raced into a 5-1 lead and dominated. She went on to win the set 6-2 but surrendered advantage to Keys who served first in the decider. <o:p></o:p>
The third set was a tight contest where Sabalenka broke her US counterpart before she broke back. The decisive moment in the match came in the 12th game when the match was 6-5 and Sabalenka served to take the match in a tiebreak. However, the game took a turn as the Belarusian lost her serve and opportunity to win a third consecutive women&rsquo;s singles title at the Australian Open. &nbsp;<o:p></o:p>
For Keys, it was her second Grand Slam final having lost the 2017 US Open final to Sloane Stephens.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ahead-of-champions-trophy-2025-pak-to-host-new-zealand-south-africa-for-odi-tri-series-8652625" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Ahead of Champions Trophy 2025, Pak to host New Zealand, South Africa for ODI tri-series</a> 
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Wakana Sonobe becomes first Japanese to win Girls Singles title</h2>
Wakana Sonobe etched her name into the history books by becoming the first Japanese player to win the Australian Open girls&rsquo; singles title. The 17-year-old delivered a commanding performance in the final, dismantling American doubles champion Kristina Penickova 6-0, 6-1 in just 54 minutes at Rod Laver Arena.<o:p></o:p>
Sonobe&rsquo;s final victory, her fastest singles match of the tournament, capped a remarkable campaign at Melbourne Park. The Japanese star entered the match fresh from a semi-final win over No.1 seed and home favorite Emerson Jones, showcasing nerves of steel and an unrelenting drive.<o:p></o:p>

Sports, Tennis: The 6-3, 2-6, 7-5 win in Australian Open final for Madison Keys also saw her break Aryna Sabalenka’s dominating run of 20 straight wins in all competitions. 

Madison Keys clinched her maiden Grand Slam title on Saturday (Jan 25) after she defeated defending two-time champion Aryna Sabalenka in the Australian Open 2025 final. The 6-3, 2-6, 7-5 win for Keys also saw her break Sabalenka’s dominating run of 20 straight wins in all competitions. In doing so Keys becomes the first woman from the United States since Sofia Kenin in 2020 to win the Australian Open. Keys unlocks Sabalenka In a tightly contested game at the Rod Laver Arena, Sabalenka lost the opening set 6-3 where she was broken twice. One of the weak links for the Belarusian was her second serve as she failed to convert it into a winner. There were four double faults from the number one seed before she made a comprehensive comeback. The second set was a more straightforward affair as Sabalenka raced into a 5-1 lead and dominated. She went on to win the set 6-2 but surrendered advantage to Keys who served first in the decider. The third set was a tight contest where Sabalenka broke her US counterpart before she broke back. The decisive moment in the match came in the 12th game when the match was 6-5 and Sabalenka served to take the match in a tiebreak. However, the game took a turn as the Belarusian lost her serve and opportunity to win a third consecutive women’s singles title at the Australian Open. For Keys, it was her second Grand Slam final having lost the 2017 US Open final to Sloane Stephens. ALSO READ | Ahead of Champions Trophy 2025, Pak to host New Zealand, South Africa for ODI tri-series Wakana Sonobe becomes first Japanese to win Girls Singles title Wakana Sonobe etched her name into the history books by becoming the first Japanese player to win the Australian Open girls’ singles title. The 17-year-old delivered a commanding performance in the final, dismantling American doubles champion Kristina Penickova 6-0, 6-1 in just 54 minutes at Rod Laver Arena. Sonobe’s final victory, her fastest singles match of the tournament, capped a remarkable campaign at Melbourne Park. The Japanese star entered the match fresh from a semi-final win over No.1 seed and home favorite Emerson Jones, showcasing nerves of steel and an unrelenting drive.

Australian Open 2025: Madison Keys unlocks Aryna Sabalenka to clinch maiden Grand Slam title

India&rsquo;s T20 World Cup-winning captain Rohit Sharma along with Jasprit Bumrah and two other Indians have been named in the ICC Men&rsquo;s T20I team of the year after a stellar 2024. The team announced on Saturday (Jan 25) saw the inclusion of Bumrah, Hardik Pandya and Arshdeep Singh alongside Rohit, who was named the side's captain. Interestingly, despite reaching the final no South African player was included in the ICC Men&rsquo;s T20I Team of the Year. <o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Rohit Sharma in ICC team of the year<o:p></o:p></h2>
Having helped India win the 2024 T20 World Cup in the United States and the West Indies, the ICC named Rohit in the team of the year, where he showed his class with the bat. The then-Indian skipper scored 378 runs in 11 matches in 2024, including a best of 121, before calling time on his illustrious career. After MS Dhoni, he became the second captain to lead India to glory in the coveted tournament. <o:p></o:p>
Jasprit Bumrah was also named in the Team of the Year after playing a key role in India&rsquo;s triumph. He remains India&rsquo;s ace card in big tournaments having helped the nation win T20 World Cup. Arshdeep was another bowler named in the ICC team of the year while Hardik Pandya&rsquo;s contribution to the side did not go unnoticed as he too made the cut.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ahead-of-champions-trophy-2025-pak-to-host-new-zealand-south-africa-for-odi-tri-series-8652625" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Ahead of Champions Trophy 2025, Pak to host New Zealand, South Africa for ODI tri-series</a> 
Elsewhere, the likes of Travis Head, Phil Salt and Babar Azam were also included by the ICC in T20I Team of the Year. In Women&rsquo;s T20I Team of the Year, India were represented by Smriti Mandhana, Richa Ghosh and Deepti Sharma.<o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">ICC T20I Team of the Year<o:p></o:p></h2>
Men&rsquo;s
Rohit Sharma (c), Travis Head, Phil Salt, Babar Azam, Nicholas Pooran (wk), Sikandar Raza, Hardik Pandya, Rashid Khan, Wanindu Hasaranga, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh.
Women&rsquo;s<o:p></o:p>
Laura Wolvaardt (c), Smriti Mandhana, Chamari Athapaththu, Hayley Matthews, Nat Sciver-Brunt, Melie Kerr, Richa Ghosh (wk), Marizanne Kapp, Orla Prendergast, Deepti Sharma, Sadia Iqbal<o:p></o:p>

Sports, Cricket: The team announced saw the inclusion ofJasprit  Bumrah, Hardik Pandya and Arshdeep Singh alongside Rohit Sharma, who was named the side's captain.

India’s T20 World Cup-winning captain Rohit Sharma along with Jasprit Bumrah and two other Indians have been named in the ICC Men’s T20I team of the year after a stellar 2024. The team announced on Saturday (Jan 25) saw the inclusion of Bumrah, Hardik Pandya and Arshdeep Singh alongside Rohit, who was named the side's captain. Interestingly, despite reaching the final no South African player was included in the ICC Men’s T20I Team of the Year. Rohit Sharma in ICC team of the year Having helped India win the 2024 T20 World Cup in the United States and the West Indies, the ICC named Rohit in the team of the year, where he showed his class with the bat. The then-Indian skipper scored 378 runs in 11 matches in 2024, including a best of 121, before calling time on his illustrious career. After MS Dhoni, he became the second captain to lead India to glory in the coveted tournament. Jasprit Bumrah was also named in the Team of the Year after playing a key role in India’s triumph. He remains India’s ace card in big tournaments having helped the nation win T20 World Cup. Arshdeep was another bowler named in the ICC team of the year while Hardik Pandya’s contribution to the side did not go unnoticed as he too made the cut. ALSO READ | Ahead of Champions Trophy 2025, Pak to host New Zealand, South Africa for ODI tri-series Elsewhere, the likes of Travis Head, Phil Salt and Babar Azam were also included by the ICC in T20I Team of the Year. In Women’s T20I Team of the Year, India were represented by Smriti Mandhana, Richa Ghosh and Deepti Sharma. ICC T20I Team of the Year Men’s Rohit Sharma (c), Travis Head, Phil Salt, Babar Azam, Nicholas Pooran (wk), Sikandar Raza, Hardik Pandya, Rashid Khan, Wanindu Hasaranga, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh. Women’s Laura Wolvaardt (c), Smriti Mandhana, Chamari Athapaththu, Hayley Matthews, Nat Sciver-Brunt, Melie Kerr, Richa Ghosh (wk), Marizanne Kapp, Orla Prendergast, Deepti Sharma, Sadia Iqbal

Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah among four Indians included in ICC Men's T20I Team of the Year

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