Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar has backed Jasprit Bumrah to become the new captain of the Test side as speculations surround the future of Rohit Sharma. Speaking on Tuesday (Jan 7), Manjrekar backed the 31-year-old exemplary pacer who led India in two Test matches during the Australia tour. India lost the Test series 1-3, thereby surrendering the Border-Gavaskar Trophy to Australia for the first time in a decade.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Manjrekar backs Bumrah</h2>
"It's a no-brainer for me. The next Test series is in England and Bumrah has to be the Test captain. Rohit Sharma as a batter has not done enough considering the loss to NZ at home, plus he opted out of the playing XI because he did not fit in. There are too many uncertainties around him, and I think that Bumrah is at the top of his game. There was nothing in the Australia series that we saw that he is not captaincy material," Sanjay Manjrekar said on ESPNcrcinfo.
"When he is unfit or missing, we will think about who will lead the team next. There is so much of international cricket happening. You have to see and pick out which ones you are going to play. He can be rested in the bilaterals in the home series. Pick out your marquee series, and make Bumrah captain in those.&rdquo;
ALSO READ | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-trophy-2025-british-politicians-urge-england-to-boycott-afghanistan-clash-8597391" aria-label="Champions Trophy 2025: British politicians urge England to boycott Afghanistan clash" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Champions Trophy 2025: British politicians urge England to boycott Afghanistan clash</a>
In his first match as captain in 2022, Bumrah-led Team India lost to England in Edgbaston, while his second match as skipper came in the Australia tour. He led India to an impressive 295-run win, which saw the Indian team in the hunt for a place in the World Test Championship (WTC) final. However, defeats in Adelaide, Melbourne, and Sydney dented their chances.
Bumrah was again the captain in the final match in Sydney, which India lost by six wickets. India&rsquo;s next test series is against England in June, with Rohit Sharma likely to sit out, paving the way for Bumrah to take over.

Sports, Cricket: Speaking on Tuesday (Jan 7), Sanjay Manjrekar backed Jasprit Bumrah for the captaincy role after he led India in two Test matches during the recent Australia tour. 

Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar has backed Jasprit Bumrah to become the new captain of the Test side as speculations surround the future of Rohit Sharma. Speaking on Tuesday (Jan 7), Manjrekar backed the 31-year-old exemplary pacer who led India in two Test matches during the Australia tour. India lost the Test series 1-3, thereby surrendering the Border-Gavaskar Trophy to Australia for the first time in a decade. Manjrekar backs Bumrah "It's a no-brainer for me. The next Test series is in England and Bumrah has to be the Test captain. Rohit Sharma as a batter has not done enough considering the loss to NZ at home, plus he opted out of the playing XI because he did not fit in. There are too many uncertainties around him, and I think that Bumrah is at the top of his game. There was nothing in the Australia series that we saw that he is not captaincy material," Sanjay Manjrekar said on ESPNcrcinfo. "When he is unfit or missing, we will think about who will lead the team next. There is so much of international cricket happening. You have to see and pick out which ones you are going to play. He can be rested in the bilaterals in the home series. Pick out your marquee series, and make Bumrah captain in those.” ALSO READ | Champions Trophy 2025: British politicians urge England to boycott Afghanistan clash In his first match as captain in 2022, Bumrah-led Team India lost to England in Edgbaston, while his second match as skipper came in the Australia tour. He led India to an impressive 295-run win, which saw the Indian team in the hunt for a place in the World Test Championship (WTC) final. However, defeats in Adelaide, Melbourne, and Sydney dented their chances. Bumrah was again the captain in the final match in Sydney, which India lost by six wickets. India’s next test series is against England in June, with Rohit Sharma likely to sit out, paving the way for Bumrah to take over.

Former India batter backs Jasprit Bumrah for Test captaincy role

Former West Indies batter Clive Lloyd has slammed the idea of implementing a new system in the Test format, which will see promotion and relegation format if approved. According to Australian media reports, teams will compete in a two-structure format where elite teams will compete in the World Test Championship (WTC), while lower-ranked teams will compete in the second tier of the competition.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Clive Lloyd slams proposed Test structure<o:p></o:p></h2>
"I think it will be terrible for all those countries who work so hard to get to Test match status, and now they'll be playing among themselves in the lower section," Lloyd was quoted as saying in the Trinidad &amp; Tobago Guardian.<o:p></o:p>
Lloyd also expressed dismay over former ICC chairman Greg Barclay's controversial suggestion to disband the West Indies team and have them compete as individual nations. "We (West Indies) have a great history and now you're going to tell us because of a monetary situation, (we should be disbanded)."<o:p></o:p>
According to reports, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), Cricket Australia (CA), and International Cricket Council (ICC) have held talks to launch a new format in Test cricket.<o:p></o:p>
ALSO READ | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-trophy-2025-british-politicians-urge-england-to-boycott-afghanistan-clash-8597391" aria-label="Champions Trophy 2025: British politicians urge England to boycott Afghanistan clash" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Champions Trophy 2025: British politicians urge England to boycott Afghanistan clash</a>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">South Africa vs Australia in WTC final<o:p></o:p></h2>
The 2025 WTC final will feature South Africa and Australia as the two nations will compete for the title. Australia and South Africa&rsquo;s meeting in June will be one to watch out for as the Proteas target their first ICC Trophy at the men&rsquo;s senior-level after more than two decades. Australia, on the other hand, will look to become the first team to defend the WTC title having beaten India in the 2023 edition. The Aussies are also the ODI World Champion, having beaten India in the 2023 World Cup final.<o:p></o:p>

Sports, Cricket: According to Australian media reports, teams will compete in a two-tier format under which the elite teams will compete for the World Test Championship (WTC) and lower-ranked teams will play in the second tier.

Former West Indies batter Clive Lloyd has slammed the idea of implementing a new system in the Test format, which will see promotion and relegation format if approved. According to Australian media reports, teams will compete in a two-structure format where elite teams will compete in the World Test Championship (WTC), while lower-ranked teams will compete in the second tier of the competition. Clive Lloyd slams proposed Test structure "I think it will be terrible for all those countries who work so hard to get to Test match status, and now they'll be playing among themselves in the lower section," Lloyd was quoted as saying in the Trinidad & Tobago Guardian. Lloyd also expressed dismay over former ICC chairman Greg Barclay's controversial suggestion to disband the West Indies team and have them compete as individual nations. "We (West Indies) have a great history and now you're going to tell us because of a monetary situation, (we should be disbanded)." According to reports, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), Cricket Australia (CA), and International Cricket Council (ICC) have held talks to launch a new format in Test cricket. ALSO READ | Champions Trophy 2025: British politicians urge England to boycott Afghanistan clash South Africa vs Australia in WTC final The 2025 WTC final will feature South Africa and Australia as the two nations will compete for the title. Australia and South Africa’s meeting in June will be one to watch out for as the Proteas target their first ICC Trophy at the men’s senior-level after more than two decades. Australia, on the other hand, will look to become the first team to defend the WTC title having beaten India in the 2023 edition. The Aussies are also the ODI World Champion, having beaten India in the 2023 World Cup final.

'It will be terrible for all those countries': Clive Lloyd slams proposed two-tier Test format

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has dismissed the call to boycott the Afghanistan clash in the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025. A total of 160 British lawmakers had proposed the idea of boycotting the match, which takes place on Feb 26 in Lahore. The call came against Afghanistan&rsquo;s Taliban regime's assault on women's rights since they came into power in 2021.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">ECB denies boycott request <o:p></o:p></h2>
&ldquo;The ECB strongly condemns the treatment of women and girls in Afghanistan under the Taliban regime...The ICC Constitution mandates all member nations to commit to the growth and development of women&rsquo;s cricket. The ECB has consistently refrained from scheduling bilateral matches with Afghanistan. However, a coordinated, ICC-wide approach would be significantly more impactful than individual actions,&rdquo; ECB Chief Executive Richard Gould said.<o:p></o:p>
A wide cross-party group from the House of Commons and House of Lords, including Reform UK leader Nigel Farage and former leader of the Labour Party Jeremy Corbyn, had called on the ECB "to speak out against the horrific treatment of women and girls in Afghanistan under the Taliban."<o:p></o:p>
ALSO READ | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-trophy-2025-british-politicians-urge-england-to-boycott-afghanistan-clash-8597391" aria-label="Champions Trophy 2025: British politicians urge England to boycott Afghanistan clash">Champions Trophy 2025: British politicians urge England to boycott Afghanistan clash</a>
Since the return of the Taliban to Afghanistan in 2021, women&rsquo;s rights have been a major issue on the world map. Female athletes have no scope, with participation outlawed. With the International Cricket Council (ICC) promoting female cricket in recent years, the current scenario does not sit well with the stakeholders.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Hosting Afghanistan&nbsp;a&nbsp;challenge for PCB&nbsp;</h2>
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) faces a major challenge in keeping the Champions Trophy hosting rights, and the latest development does not go well for them. Pakistan could yet find it tough to host Afghanistan in the Champions Trophy as the nation is currently in conflict with the Taliban-ruled province over border issues.<o:p></o:p>

Sports, Cricket: A total of 160 British lawmakers proposed the idea of boycotting the clash between England and Afghanistan, which takes place on February 26 in Lahore. 

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has dismissed the call to boycott the Afghanistan clash in the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025. A total of 160 British lawmakers had proposed the idea of boycotting the match, which takes place on Feb 26 in Lahore. The call came against Afghanistan’s Taliban regime's assault on women's rights since they came into power in 2021. ECB denies boycott request “The ECB strongly condemns the treatment of women and girls in Afghanistan under the Taliban regime...The ICC Constitution mandates all member nations to commit to the growth and development of women’s cricket. The ECB has consistently refrained from scheduling bilateral matches with Afghanistan. However, a coordinated, ICC-wide approach would be significantly more impactful than individual actions,” ECB Chief Executive Richard Gould said. A wide cross-party group from the House of Commons and House of Lords, including Reform UK leader Nigel Farage and former leader of the Labour Party Jeremy Corbyn, had called on the ECB "to speak out against the horrific treatment of women and girls in Afghanistan under the Taliban." ALSO READ | Champions Trophy 2025: British politicians urge England to boycott Afghanistan clash Since the return of the Taliban to Afghanistan in 2021, women’s rights have been a major issue on the world map. Female athletes have no scope, with participation outlawed. With the International Cricket Council (ICC) promoting female cricket in recent years, the current scenario does not sit well with the stakeholders. Hosting Afghanistan a challenge for PCB The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) faces a major challenge in keeping the Champions Trophy hosting rights, and the latest development does not go well for them. Pakistan could yet find it tough to host Afghanistan in the Champions Trophy as the nation is currently in conflict with the Taliban-ruled province over border issues.

Champions Trophy 2025: ECB dismisses proposal to boycott Afghanistan clash

South Africa pacer Kagiso Rabada is hungry for more success after his side booked their place in the World Test Championship (WTC) final last week. South Africa&rsquo;s latest win on Monday (Jan 6) against Pakistan will see them enter the WTC final as the home side after they secured the top spot. South Africa beat Pakistan by 10 wickets and will now play the Aussies at Lord&rsquo;s in June.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Rabada hungry for success<o:p></o:p></h2>
"South Africa versus Australia has always been an intense rivalry because we play cricket quite similar. We play hard - and they're going to come hard at us, and we know that.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>
"But we also know how to beat them.<o:p></o:p>
"One hundred per cent, Test cricket is still alive. It's our best format that we've been playing right now," said Rabada.
South Africa secured the top spot in the WTC standings after winning the Test series against Pakistan 2-0 while Australia will finish second despite their 3-1 series win against India. The Proteas will have a shot at glory in an ICC tournament for the third time in 12 months having lost in the T20 World Cup final in both men&rsquo;s and women&rsquo;s tournaments.
ALSO READ | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-trophy-2025-british-politicians-urge-england-to-boycott-afghanistan-clash-8597391" aria-label="Champions Trophy 2025: British politicians urge England to boycott Afghanistan clash" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Champions Trophy 2025: British politicians urge England to boycott Afghanistan clash</a>
According to Rabada, his side has all the tools in the arsenal to beat Australia in the format. The two sides have met only once in a Test series in the last six years, with Australia pocketing the series 2-0 in 2022-23.<o:p></o:p>
Australia and South Africa&rsquo;s meeting in June will be one to watch out for as the Proteas target their first ICC Trophy at the men&rsquo;s senior-level after more than two decades. Australia on the other hand will look to become the first team to defend the WTC title having beaten India in the 2023 edition. The Aussies are also the ODI World Champion, beating India in the 2023 World Cup final.<o:p></o:p>

Sports, Cricket: South Africa secured the top spot in the WTC standings after winning the Test series against Pakistan 2-0 while Australia will finish second.

South Africa pacer Kagiso Rabada is hungry for more success after his side booked their place in the World Test Championship (WTC) final last week. South Africa’s latest win on Monday (Jan 6) against Pakistan will see them enter the WTC final as the home side after they secured the top spot. South Africa beat Pakistan by 10 wickets and will now play the Aussies at Lord’s in June. Rabada hungry for success "South Africa versus Australia has always been an intense rivalry because we play cricket quite similar. We play hard - and they're going to come hard at us, and we know that. "But we also know how to beat them. "One hundred per cent, Test cricket is still alive. It's our best format that we've been playing right now," said Rabada. South Africa secured the top spot in the WTC standings after winning the Test series against Pakistan 2-0 while Australia will finish second despite their 3-1 series win against India. The Proteas will have a shot at glory in an ICC tournament for the third time in 12 months having lost in the T20 World Cup final in both men’s and women’s tournaments. ALSO READ | Champions Trophy 2025: British politicians urge England to boycott Afghanistan clash According to Rabada, his side has all the tools in the arsenal to beat Australia in the format. The two sides have met only once in a Test series in the last six years, with Australia pocketing the series 2-0 in 2022-23. Australia and South Africa’s meeting in June will be one to watch out for as the Proteas target their first ICC Trophy at the men’s senior-level after more than two decades. Australia on the other hand will look to become the first team to defend the WTC title having beaten India in the 2023 edition. The Aussies are also the ODI World Champion, beating India in the 2023 World Cup final.

WTC 2025 Final: Kagiso Rabada hungry for success against Australia, 'We know how to beat them'

NZ vs SL 2nd ODI Live Streaming, Date-Time, Venue: After winning the T20I series against visitors Sri Lanka, New Zealand will look to carry the momentum in the ODI series as they target another white-ball triumph. Having won by nine wickets in the opening ODI, the Kiwis stand a golden chance to pocket the ODI series with the Champions Trophy build-up in progress. Ahead of the second ODI between hosts New Zealand and Sri Lanka, here are all the details, including live streaming, squads, and more.
<h2 class="MsoNormal">When is the New Zealand vs Sri Lanka 2nd ODI match?<o:p></o:p></h2>
The New Zealand vs Sri Lanka 2nd ODI match will be played on Wednesday (Jan 8).
<h2 class="MsoNormal">Which stadium will host the New Zealand vs Sri Lanka 2nd ODI match?<o:p></o:p></h2>
The New Zealand vs Sri Lanka 2nd ODI match will be played at the Seddon Park in Hamilton,
<h2 class="MsoNormal">What time will the New Zealand vs Sri Lanka 2nd ODI match start?<o:p></o:p></h2>
The New Zealand vs Sri Lanka 2nd ODI match will start at 2:00 PM local time (6:30 AM IST) with the toss taking place at 1:30 PM local time (6:90 AM IST).
<h2 class="MsoNormal">Where to watch the New Zealand vs Sri Lanka 2nd ODI match on TV?<o:p></o:p></h2>
The New Zealand vs Sri Lanka 2nd ODI match will be telecast on the Sony Sports Network in India.
ALSO READ | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-trophy-2025-british-politicians-urge-england-to-boycott-afghanistan-clash-8597391" aria-label="Champions Trophy 2025: British politicians urge England to boycott Afghanistan clash">Champions Trophy 2025: British politicians urge England to boycott Afghanistan clash</a>
<h2 class="MsoNormal">Where to watch the New Zealand vs Sri Lanka 2nd ODI Live Streaming online on OTT?<o:p></o:p></h2>
The New Zealand vs Sri Lanka 2nd ODI match will be live-streamed on the Sony Liv app and website in India.
Squads<o:p></o:p>
New Zealand Playing XI: Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Hay(w), Mitchell Santner(c), Nathan Smith, Matt Henry, Jacob Duffy, William ORourke, Tom Latham, Michael Bracewell
Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Mendis(w), Kamindu Mendis, Charith Asalanka(c), Janith Liyanage, Chamindu Wickramasinghe, Wanindu Hasaranga, Eshan Malinga, Lahiru Kumara, Asitha Fernando, Jeffrey Vandersay, Nuwanidu Fernando, Nishan Madushka, Dunith Wellalage, Mohamed Shiraz, Maheesh Theekshana

Sports, Cricket: Having won by nine wickets in the opening ODI, New Zealand stand a golden chance to pocket the ODI series with the Champions Trophy build-up in progress.

NZ vs SL 2nd ODI Live Streaming, Date-Time, Venue: After winning the T20I series against visitors Sri Lanka, New Zealand will look to carry the momentum in the ODI series as they target another white-ball triumph. Having won by nine wickets in the opening ODI, the Kiwis stand a golden chance to pocket the ODI series with the Champions Trophy build-up in progress. Ahead of the second ODI between hosts New Zealand and Sri Lanka, here are all the details, including live streaming, squads, and more. When is the New Zealand vs Sri Lanka 2nd ODI match? The New Zealand vs Sri Lanka 2nd ODI match will be played on Wednesday (Jan 8). Which stadium will host the New Zealand vs Sri Lanka 2nd ODI match? The New Zealand vs Sri Lanka 2nd ODI match will be played at the Seddon Park in Hamilton, What time will the New Zealand vs Sri Lanka 2nd ODI match start? The New Zealand vs Sri Lanka 2nd ODI match will start at 2:00 PM local time (6:30 AM IST) with the toss taking place at 1:30 PM local time (6:90 AM IST). Where to watch the New Zealand vs Sri Lanka 2nd ODI match on TV? The New Zealand vs Sri Lanka 2nd ODI match will be telecast on the Sony Sports Network in India. ALSO READ | Champions Trophy 2025: British politicians urge England to boycott Afghanistan clash Where to watch the New Zealand vs Sri Lanka 2nd ODI Live Streaming online on OTT? The New Zealand vs Sri Lanka 2nd ODI match will be live-streamed on the Sony Liv app and website in India. Squads New Zealand Playing XI: Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Hay(w), Mitchell Santner(c), Nathan Smith, Matt Henry, Jacob Duffy, William ORourke, Tom Latham, Michael Bracewell Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Mendis(w), Kamindu Mendis, Charith Asalanka(c), Janith Liyanage, Chamindu Wickramasinghe, Wanindu Hasaranga, Eshan Malinga, Lahiru Kumara, Asitha Fernando, Jeffrey Vandersay, Nuwanidu Fernando, Nishan Madushka, Dunith Wellalage, Mohamed Shiraz, Maheesh Theekshana

NZ vs SL, 2nd ODI live streaming: When & where to watch New Zealand vs Sri Lanka live on laptop, TV

Japanese tennis star Naomi Osaka says she and her American rapper boyfriend Cordae have split up just days ahead of the Australian Open.
The couple have been together since 2019 and share a young daughter, Shai.
"Hi everyone, just wanted to say that Cordae and I are no longer in a relationship," the four-time Grand Slam champion wrote on Instagram late Monday.
"No bad blood at all, he's a great person and an awesome dad.
"Honestly really glad our paths crossed because my daughter is my biggest blessing and I was able to grow a lot from our experiences together."
ALSO READ | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-trophy-2025-british-politicians-urge-england-to-boycott-afghanistan-clash-8597391" aria-label="Champions Trophy 2025: British politicians urge England to boycott Afghanistan clash" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Champions Trophy 2025: British politicians urge England to boycott Afghanistan clash</a>
She ended the post with a red heart emoji, without saying when they parted ways.
Osaka reached her first WTA final since 2022 at the Auckland Classic over the weekend.
But she pulled out with an abdominal injury after taking the opening set 6-4.
The 27-year-old was not thought to be badly hurt, with the Australian Open starting on Sunday.&nbsp;
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: Naomi Osaka reached her first WTA final since 2022 at the Auckland Classic over the weekend, but pulled out with an abdominal injury after taking the opening set. 

Japanese tennis star Naomi Osaka says she and her American rapper boyfriend Cordae have split up just days ahead of the Australian Open. The couple have been together since 2019 and share a young daughter, Shai. "Hi everyone, just wanted to say that Cordae and I are no longer in a relationship," the four-time Grand Slam champion wrote on Instagram late Monday. "No bad blood at all, he's a great person and an awesome dad. "Honestly really glad our paths crossed because my daughter is my biggest blessing and I was able to grow a lot from our experiences together." ALSO READ | Champions Trophy 2025: British politicians urge England to boycott Afghanistan clash She ended the post with a red heart emoji, without saying when they parted ways. Osaka reached her first WTA final since 2022 at the Auckland Classic over the weekend. But she pulled out with an abdominal injury after taking the opening set 6-4. The 27-year-old was not thought to be badly hurt, with the Australian Open starting on Sunday. 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.

Naomi Osaka splits with rapper Cordae ahead of Australian Open

Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah is once again in the spotlight as he enters the final six months of his contract with the Premier League side. Salah, a club legend will be free to move in the summer unless he signs a new contract. However, he is not the only one to see his contract run out as Trent Alexander-Arnold and captain Virgil van Dijk are also in the final few months of their deal. Taking to his social media, Salah posted a picture of the trio just hours after Liverpool drew 2-2 against Manchester United in the Premier League.
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<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Salah in headlines<o:p></o:p></h2>
On Monday (Jan 6) evening the Egyptian posted a picture of him, Van Dijk and Alexander-Arnold which comes as a statement to the Liverpool board. Currently, the club is nowhere near agreeing on a new deal for the trio as contract talks have stalled on multiple occasions. The Fenway Sports Group, owners of the Merseyside club are reluctant to splash huge sums on Van Dijk and Salah who are already in their 30s while Alexander-Arnold&rsquo;s expected salary becomes a huge obstacle to agreeing on a new deal.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>
As things stand, all players remain committed to the club but are free to negotiate a new deal with any club having entered the final six months of their contract. According to reports, full-back Alexander-Arnold has attracted interest from Real Madrid while Salah has potential suitors in the Saudi Pro League. Van Dijk&rsquo;s situation is interesting with a club linked with his services but has huge potential to settle at any top club in Europe.
ALSO READ <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-trophy-2025-british-politicians-urge-england-to-boycott-afghanistan-clash-8597391" aria-label="Champions Trophy 2025: British politicians urge England to boycott Afghanistan clash" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Champions Trophy 2025: British politicians urge England to boycott Afghanistan clash</a>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Farewell with Premier League?<o:p></o:p></h2>
After Sunday&rsquo;s 2-2 draw with Manchester United, Liverpool are six points clear at the top of the Premier League title with a game in hand. Salah has scored 18 goals and assisted a further 13, underlining his importance in the club. Alexander-Arnold and Van Dijk have also contributed to the team&rsquo;s rise as they search for their second league title since 2019-20.<o:p></o:p>

Sports, Football: Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah is once again in the spotlight as he enters the final six months of his contract with the Premier League side. 

Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah is once again in the spotlight as he enters the final six months of his contract with the Premier League side. Salah, a club legend will be free to move in the summer unless he signs a new contract. However, he is not the only one to see his contract run out as Trent Alexander-Arnold and captain Virgil van Dijk are also in the final few months of their deal. Taking to his social media, Salah posted a picture of the trio just hours after Liverpool drew 2-2 against Manchester United in the Premier League. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mohamed Salah (@mosalah) Salah in headlines On Monday (Jan 6) evening the Egyptian posted a picture of him, Van Dijk and Alexander-Arnold which comes as a statement to the Liverpool board. Currently, the club is nowhere near agreeing on a new deal for the trio as contract talks have stalled on multiple occasions. The Fenway Sports Group, owners of the Merseyside club are reluctant to splash huge sums on Van Dijk and Salah who are already in their 30s while Alexander-Arnold’s expected salary becomes a huge obstacle to agreeing on a new deal. As things stand, all players remain committed to the club but are free to negotiate a new deal with any club having entered the final six months of their contract. According to reports, full-back Alexander-Arnold has attracted interest from Real Madrid while Salah has potential suitors in the Saudi Pro League. Van Dijk’s situation is interesting with a club linked with his services but has huge potential to settle at any top club in Europe. ALSO READ Champions Trophy 2025: British politicians urge England to boycott Afghanistan clash Farewell with Premier League? After Sunday’s 2-2 draw with Manchester United, Liverpool are six points clear at the top of the Premier League title with a game in hand. Salah has scored 18 goals and assisted a further 13, underlining his importance in the club. Alexander-Arnold and Van Dijk have also contributed to the team’s rise as they search for their second league title since 2019-20.

Mohamed Salah in headlines as Liverpool striker posts pic with soon out-of-contract Van Dijk, Alexander-Arnold

The Champions Trophy 2025 could have one more round of controversy after British politicians called on the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) to boycott their nation&rsquo;s clash against Afghanistan. The latest development came on Monday (Jan 6) evening, as more than 160 British politicians took a stand against Afghanistan&rsquo;s Taliban regime's assault on women's rights. England will face Afghanistan on February 26 in Lahore in the Champions Trophy. <o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">British politicians urge England to boycott Afghan clash in CT 2025<o:p></o:p></h2>
A wide cross-party group from the House of Commons and House of Lords, including Reform UK leader Nigel Farage and former leader of the Labour Party Jeremy Corbyn, called on the ECB "to speak out against the horrific treatment of women and girls in Afghanistan under the Taliban."<o:p></o:p>
Since the return of the Taliban to Afghanistan in 2021, women&rsquo;s rights have been a major issue on the world map. Female athletes have no scope with participation outlawed. With the International Cricket Council (ICC) promoting female cricket in recent years, the current scenario does not sit well with stakeholders. <o:p></o:p>
However, Afghanistan are still allowed to compete by the ICC and ECB CEO Richard Gould responded by suggesting a uniform approach from all member nations is the best way forward.<o:p></o:p>
"The ECB strongly condemns the treatment of women and girls in Afghanistan under the Taliban regime," he said.<o:p></o:p>
"The ICC Constitution mandates that all member nations are committed to the growth and development of women's cricket. In line with this commitment, the ECB has maintained its position of not scheduling any bilateral cricket matches against Afghanistan.<o:p></o:p>
ALSO READ | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-nottingham-forest-tame-wolves-to-maintain-unlikely-title-challenge-8597371" aria-label="Premier League: Nottingham Forest tame Wolves to maintain unlikely title challenge" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Premier League: Nottingham Forest tame Wolves to maintain unlikely title challenge</a>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Champions Trophy build-up boils up<o:p></o:p></h2>
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has faced a major challenge in keeping the Champions Trophy hosting rights, and the latest development does not augur well for them. Pakistan could find it tough to host Afghanistan in the Champions Trophy as the nation is currently in conflict with the Taliban-ruled province over border issues. If England&rsquo;s latest stance becomes more concrete, the PCB will have a decision to make in the coming days.<o:p></o:p>

Sports, World, Cricket: The CT 2025 could have one more round of controversy after British politicians called on the ECB to boycott their nation’s clash against Afghanistan.

The Champions Trophy 2025 could have one more round of controversy after British politicians called on the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) to boycott their nation’s clash against Afghanistan. The latest development came on Monday (Jan 6) evening, as more than 160 British politicians took a stand against Afghanistan’s Taliban regime's assault on women's rights. England will face Afghanistan on February 26 in Lahore in the Champions Trophy. British politicians urge England to boycott Afghan clash in CT 2025 A wide cross-party group from the House of Commons and House of Lords, including Reform UK leader Nigel Farage and former leader of the Labour Party Jeremy Corbyn, called on the ECB "to speak out against the horrific treatment of women and girls in Afghanistan under the Taliban." Since the return of the Taliban to Afghanistan in 2021, women’s rights have been a major issue on the world map. Female athletes have no scope with participation outlawed. With the International Cricket Council (ICC) promoting female cricket in recent years, the current scenario does not sit well with stakeholders. However, Afghanistan are still allowed to compete by the ICC and ECB CEO Richard Gould responded by suggesting a uniform approach from all member nations is the best way forward. "The ECB strongly condemns the treatment of women and girls in Afghanistan under the Taliban regime," he said. "The ICC Constitution mandates that all member nations are committed to the growth and development of women's cricket. In line with this commitment, the ECB has maintained its position of not scheduling any bilateral cricket matches against Afghanistan. ALSO READ | Premier League: Nottingham Forest tame Wolves to maintain unlikely title challenge Champions Trophy build-up boils up The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has faced a major challenge in keeping the Champions Trophy hosting rights, and the latest development does not augur well for them. Pakistan could find it tough to host Afghanistan in the Champions Trophy as the nation is currently in conflict with the Taliban-ruled province over border issues. If England’s latest stance becomes more concrete, the PCB will have a decision to make in the coming days.

Champions Trophy 2025: British politicians urge England to boycott Afghanistan clash

Tammy Abraham grabbed a late winner as AC Milan came from two goals down to beat defending champions Inter Milan 3-2 and lift the Italian Super Cup trophy in Riyadh on Monday.
Inter looked on course for a fourth consecutive trophy in the tournament after goals from Lautaro Martinez and and Mehdi Taremi either side of the break in Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;
But in a repeat of their 2-1 come-from-behind win against Juventus in the semi-final Milan returned transformed after the break.
<h2>Inter miss out on SuperCup</h2>
To add to the Inter's woes the reigning Serie A champions lost Hakan Calhanoglu to a muscular injury just after half an hour with Kristjan Asllani coming on in place of the Turkish midfielder.
Theo Hernandez revived AC Milan hopes with a free kick after 52 minutes as they chased a first trophy under new coach Sergio Conceicao.
US winger Christian Pulisic grabbed the equaliser with 10 minutes to go with English forward Abraham sealing the winner after 93 minutes to give his side the trophy for the eighth time and first since 2016.
ALSO READ | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/sa-vs-pak-2nd-test-result-south-africa-beat-pakistan-in-second-test-by-10-wickets-in-cape-town-to-complete-series-whitewash-8597145" aria-label="South Africa beat Pakistan in second Test to complete series whitewash" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">South Africa beat Pakistan in second Test to complete series whitewash</a>
Three-time defending champions Inter had dominated Atalanta 2-0 on Thursday in the Super Cup semis staged in Saudi Arabia for the third year in a row.
AC Milan's eighth Italian Super Cup trophy moves them equal with Inter Milan and behind Juventus who have won the tournament a record nine times.
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: Inter looked on course for a fourth consecutive trophy in the tournament after goals from Lautaro Martinez and and Mehdi Taremi.

Tammy Abraham grabbed a late winner as AC Milan came from two goals down to beat defending champions Inter Milan 3-2 and lift the Italian Super Cup trophy in Riyadh on Monday. Inter looked on course for a fourth consecutive trophy in the tournament after goals from Lautaro Martinez and and Mehdi Taremi either side of the break in Saudi Arabia. But in a repeat of their 2-1 come-from-behind win against Juventus in the semi-final Milan returned transformed after the break. Inter miss out on SuperCup To add to the Inter's woes the reigning Serie A champions lost Hakan Calhanoglu to a muscular injury just after half an hour with Kristjan Asllani coming on in place of the Turkish midfielder. Theo Hernandez revived AC Milan hopes with a free kick after 52 minutes as they chased a first trophy under new coach Sergio Conceicao. US winger Christian Pulisic grabbed the equaliser with 10 minutes to go with English forward Abraham sealing the winner after 93 minutes to give his side the trophy for the eighth time and first since 2016. ALSO READ | South Africa beat Pakistan in second Test to complete series whitewash Three-time defending champions Inter had dominated Atalanta 2-0 on Thursday in the Super Cup semis staged in Saudi Arabia for the third year in a row. AC Milan's eighth Italian Super Cup trophy moves them equal with Inter Milan and behind Juventus who have won the tournament a record nine times. 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.

Italian SuperCup: Late Tammy Abraham winner sees Milan edge Inter in thrilling final

Nottingham Forest's stunning season continued with a 3-0 victory at Wolves on Monday to give manager Nuno Espirito Santo a winning return to Molineux.
England international Morgan Gibbs-White and the in-form Chris Wood struck before half-time to take Forest to within six points of leaders Liverpool, who they host in their next Premier League game.
Substitute Taiwo Awoniyi rounded off the scoring and a sixth consecutive win for Forest in stoppage time.
<h2>Wolves hang in relegation battle</h2>
Defeat leaves Wolves outside the relegation zone only thanks to goal difference as they suffered a first defeat under new boss Vitor Pereira.
Forest remain third in the table but move level on points with Arsenal.
Even if a shock title challenge proves beyond Espirito Santo's men, they are building up an impressive cushion in the race for Champions League football next season.
They are five points clear of fifth-placed Newcastle and six in front of struggling champions Manchester City in sixth.
A top-four finish would guarantee a return to the continent's elite competition for the first time in 45 years for the two-time European champions.
However, fifth could also be good enough depending on how English club fare in European competition this season.
"We need to stay humble. We haven't achieved anything yet, we need to work until the end and this can lead us to good moments," said Espirito Santo.
Gibbs-White savoured his return to the club where he spent the early part of his career.
In front of the watching new England manager Thomas Tuchel, the midfielder did his case for further international recognition no harm with a cool finish from Antony Elanga's pass.
Forest's unexpected rise from battling relegation until the final day of last season into Champions League contenders has been build on a solid defence and Wood's purple patch.
The New Zealand international turned in Callum Hudson-Odoi's low cross for his 12th goal of the season to double the visitors' lead just before half-time.
Wolves pressed and probed for a way back into the game after the break but were toothless in the absence of talisman Matheus Cunha through suspension.
Mats Sels was forced into one brilliant save to deny Jorgen Strand Larsen to preserve a ninth clean sheet of the season and fourth in a row.
That solidity is familiar to Wolves fans from Espirito Santo's time in charge of their club between 2017 and 2021.
ALSO READ | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/sa-vs-pak-2nd-test-result-south-africa-beat-pakistan-in-second-test-by-10-wickets-in-cape-town-to-complete-series-whitewash-8597145" aria-label="South Africa beat Pakistan in second Test to complete series whitewash" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">South Africa beat Pakistan in second Test to complete series whitewash</a>
The Portuguese coach led Wanderers from the Championship into Europe for the first time in 39 years.
Now after troubled spells at Tottenham and Saudi club Al-Ittihad, he is recreating that magic to leave Forest fans in dreamland.
"As coaching staff we have this natural ambition of improving the players, this is what we are obsessed with," he added.
"If we improve the players then the team will improve and if the team improves then the club will improve and the city will be happy."
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: England international Morgan Gibbs-White and the in-form Chris Wood struck before half-time to take Forest to within six points of leaders Liverpool.

Nottingham Forest's stunning season continued with a 3-0 victory at Wolves on Monday to give manager Nuno Espirito Santo a winning return to Molineux. England international Morgan Gibbs-White and the in-form Chris Wood struck before half-time to take Forest to within six points of leaders Liverpool, who they host in their next Premier League game. Substitute Taiwo Awoniyi rounded off the scoring and a sixth consecutive win for Forest in stoppage time. Wolves hang in relegation battle Defeat leaves Wolves outside the relegation zone only thanks to goal difference as they suffered a first defeat under new boss Vitor Pereira. Forest remain third in the table but move level on points with Arsenal. Even if a shock title challenge proves beyond Espirito Santo's men, they are building up an impressive cushion in the race for Champions League football next season. They are five points clear of fifth-placed Newcastle and six in front of struggling champions Manchester City in sixth. A top-four finish would guarantee a return to the continent's elite competition for the first time in 45 years for the two-time European champions. However, fifth could also be good enough depending on how English club fare in European competition this season. "We need to stay humble. We haven't achieved anything yet, we need to work until the end and this can lead us to good moments," said Espirito Santo. Gibbs-White savoured his return to the club where he spent the early part of his career. In front of the watching new England manager Thomas Tuchel, the midfielder did his case for further international recognition no harm with a cool finish from Antony Elanga's pass. Forest's unexpected rise from battling relegation until the final day of last season into Champions League contenders has been build on a solid defence and Wood's purple patch. The New Zealand international turned in Callum Hudson-Odoi's low cross for his 12th goal of the season to double the visitors' lead just before half-time. Wolves pressed and probed for a way back into the game after the break but were toothless in the absence of talisman Matheus Cunha through suspension. Mats Sels was forced into one brilliant save to deny Jorgen Strand Larsen to preserve a ninth clean sheet of the season and fourth in a row. That solidity is familiar to Wolves fans from Espirito Santo's time in charge of their club between 2017 and 2021. ALSO READ | South Africa beat Pakistan in second Test to complete series whitewash The Portuguese coach led Wanderers from the Championship into Europe for the first time in 39 years. Now after troubled spells at Tottenham and Saudi club Al-Ittihad, he is recreating that magic to leave Forest fans in dreamland. "As coaching staff we have this natural ambition of improving the players, this is what we are obsessed with," he added. "If we improve the players then the team will improve and if the team improves then the club will improve and the city will be happy." 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: Nottingham Forest tame Wolves to maintain unlikely title challenge

Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy unveil their futuristic Tomorrow's Golf League on Tuesday, hoping the tech-infused competition will capture the imagination of tour pros and a new global fan base.
"This is what we've been shooting for," 15-time major champion Woods said last month as he looked forward to the competition debut, which was delayed by a year after a roof collapse at the SoFi Center venue in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nfl/detriot-lions-take-nfc-top-seed-denver-broncos-and-tampa-bay-buccaneers-head-into-nfl-playoffs-8594881" rel="dofollow">Detriot Lions take NFC top seed, Denver Broncos and Tampa Bay Buccaneers head into NFL playoffs</a>
"We're trying to bring a new demographic to this game of golf, and it's going to be exciting," Woods said, adding he was "blown away at the amount of moving parts there is to this.
"As a showcase, it's going to be unbelievable on TV," Woods said. "I hope that we can invigorate the game because it definitely needs it right now."
McIlroy, speaking to TGL's US broadcaster ESPN, called the venture "golf, but reimagined".
"Sort of trying to take golf into the 21st century," McIlroy said. "We have teams. Obviously there's a lot of technology involved, trying to bring it into the digital era.
"A lot of things that we've taken from other sports, like a shot clock, a timeout, things that you don't see in regular golf... trying to appeal to that bigger sports audience out there."
It's no accident that the league, which will feature 24 US PGA Tour players divided into six teams competing once a week over several months, was announced as the game grappled with the global rift between the upstart LIV Golf circuit and the established US and European tours.
While the rhetoric has calmed, plans to actually bring the warring factions back together remain stalled.
Woods and McIlroy, along with ESPN, British broadcaster Sky Sports and a string of heavyweight investors are hoping the combination of golf skill and technical innovation on display will prove a winning combination for fans.
<h2>Fun fan experience</h2>
The 250,000 square-foot SoFi Center arena, with a seating capacity of 1,500, will feature a raft of innovations. Players will hit into a massive simulator screen from areas of actual mown grass, rough or even sand.
A short game area that transforms between holes can rotate the green to change approach angles and alter its topography.
"The rotating green blew me away," Woods said. "I think it's going to be a lot of fun for not just us but also for the fan experience."
Each four-man team will select three players to compete per match. All three will team for nine holes of alternate shot, followed by six holes of singles with each golfer playing two holes.
Four teams advance to the playoffs with a title series in March. The winning team earns $9 million.
Tuesday's opener will feature Rickie Fowler, Matt Fitzpatrick and Xander Schauffele of the New York Golf Club taking on Shane Lowry, Wyndham Clark and Ludvig Aberg of the Bay Golf Club.
Woods's Jupiter Links team is slated for action against Los Angeles Golf Club in week two.
Clark, the 2023 US Open champion, said the fast-paced format -- designed to have the matches finish in two hours -- could be a drawing card to new fans and the indoor venue will make players seem more accessible.
"The challenge with golf is that people are farther away, but this is really intimate," he said.&nbsp;
"People are going to see our personalities."
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.

Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy are hoping the combination of golf skill and technical innovation on display will prove a winning combination for fans. Sports

Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy unveil their futuristic Tomorrow's Golf League on Tuesday, hoping the tech-infused competition will capture the imagination of tour pros and a new global fan base. "This is what we've been shooting for," 15-time major champion Woods said last month as he looked forward to the competition debut, which was delayed by a year after a roof collapse at the SoFi Center venue in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. Also Read: Detriot Lions take NFC top seed, Denver Broncos and Tampa Bay Buccaneers head into NFL playoffs "We're trying to bring a new demographic to this game of golf, and it's going to be exciting," Woods said, adding he was "blown away at the amount of moving parts there is to this. "As a showcase, it's going to be unbelievable on TV," Woods said. "I hope that we can invigorate the game because it definitely needs it right now." McIlroy, speaking to TGL's US broadcaster ESPN, called the venture "golf, but reimagined". "Sort of trying to take golf into the 21st century," McIlroy said. "We have teams. Obviously there's a lot of technology involved, trying to bring it into the digital era. "A lot of things that we've taken from other sports, like a shot clock, a timeout, things that you don't see in regular golf... trying to appeal to that bigger sports audience out there." It's no accident that the league, which will feature 24 US PGA Tour players divided into six teams competing once a week over several months, was announced as the game grappled with the global rift between the upstart LIV Golf circuit and the established US and European tours. While the rhetoric has calmed, plans to actually bring the warring factions back together remain stalled. Woods and McIlroy, along with ESPN, British broadcaster Sky Sports and a string of heavyweight investors are hoping the combination of golf skill and technical innovation on display will prove a winning combination for fans. Fun fan experience The 250,000 square-foot SoFi Center arena, with a seating capacity of 1,500, will feature a raft of innovations. Players will hit into a massive simulator screen from areas of actual mown grass, rough or even sand. A short game area that transforms between holes can rotate the green to change approach angles and alter its topography. "The rotating green blew me away," Woods said. "I think it's going to be a lot of fun for not just us but also for the fan experience." Each four-man team will select three players to compete per match. All three will team for nine holes of alternate shot, followed by six holes of singles with each golfer playing two holes. Four teams advance to the playoffs with a title series in March. The winning team earns $9 million. Tuesday's opener will feature Rickie Fowler, Matt Fitzpatrick and Xander Schauffele of the New York Golf Club taking on Shane Lowry, Wyndham Clark and Ludvig Aberg of the Bay Golf Club. Woods's Jupiter Links team is slated for action against Los Angeles Golf Club in week two. Clark, the 2023 US Open champion, said the fast-paced format -- designed to have the matches finish in two hours -- could be a drawing card to new fans and the indoor venue will make players seem more accessible. "The challenge with golf is that people are farther away, but this is really intimate," he said. "People are going to see our personalities." 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.

TGL Golf: Tiger Woods & Rory McIlroy backed circuit tees off

Hideki Matsuyama broke the 72-hole PGA Tour tournament scoring record on Sunday, firing an eight-under par 65 to finish on 35-under par 257 and win the Sentry tournament. The 32-year-old Japanese star outdueled American Collin Morikawa to capture his 20th worldwide title and 11th PGA Tour victory in the 2025 season opener.<o:p></o:p>
Matsuyama sank an eight-foot birdie putt on the par-5 18th hole at the Plantation Course in Kapalua, Hawaii, to take the low-par mark for four rounds.<o:p></o:p>
Australian Cameron Smith had owned the PGA Tour all-time low tournament record with a 34-under 258 on the same layout in 2022.<o:p></o:p>
Needing a birdie at the last for the record, and with a secure lead over Morikawa, Matsuyama chipped his third from just off the green, then rolled his final putt straight into the hole, allowing himself a right fist pump of celebration.<o:p></o:p>
"That last putt, it felt like if I make it, it's going to be the record, so I'm so happy that it went in," Matsuyama said through a translator.<o:p></o:p>
Matsuyama, who took a bronze medal at the Paris Olympics, won for the third time in 12 months after titles at Riviera and Memphis last year.<o:p></o:p>
"I was able to get a great off-season and get a fresh start this week and play well this week so it's a great way to start," he said.<o:p></o:p>
Sixth-ranked Matsuyama, the 2021 Masters champion, battled fourth-ranked Morikawa, a two-time major winner, over the back nine but stayed ahead the whole way, his lead wavering between two and four shots.<o:p></o:p>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-captain-bruno-fernandes-demands-more-from-manchester-united-after-liverpool-draw-8594374" rel="dofollow">PL: Fernandes demands more from Manchester United after Liverpool draw</a>
"I knew Collin was going to play good today so I said, 'Hey I'm going to shoot 10-under' and that's the attitude I had," Matsuyama said.<o:p></o:p>
Matsuyama sank a birdie putt from just beyond 30 feet at the par-3 11th to reach 32-under but Morikawa matched him from 11 feet to stay three adrift.<o:p></o:p>
Answering the challenge, Matsuyama rolled in a birdie putt from just outside 21 feet at the 12th, boosting his lead to four strokes.<o:p></o:p>
Morikawa cut the gap with a birdie from seven feet at the 14th and reached the green in two at the par-5 15th to set up a tap-in birdie that pulled him within two.<o:p></o:p>
Matsuyama, however, landed his approach inside four feet at the 16th and sank the birdie putt to reach 34-under and stretch his edge back to three strokes, setting up his dramatic finish.<o:p></o:p>
Morikawa closed with a birdie to shoot 67 and finish second on 260, settling for his sixth consecutive top-seven finish and second runner-up trophy in three years.<o:p></o:p>
"Going through the shots I left out there," Morikawa said. "There's a good handful I wish I could have back. When you don't get it done that's where your mind goes."<o:p></o:p>
South Korea's Im Sung-jae was third on 263 with Venezuela's Jhonattan Vegas fourth on 267.<o:p></o:p>
Early eagle aids Hideki<o:p></o:p>
Matsuyama began the day with a one-stroke lead and soared early on eagle wings.<o:p></o:p>
Matsuyama holed out from the fairway for eagle from 107 yards at the par-4 third to reach 29-under, although Morikawa sank a birdie putt from just outside 13 feet to stay within two strokes.<o:p></o:p>
A tap-in birdie at the par-5 fifth lifted Matsuyama to 30-under with a three-shot lead.<o:p></o:p>
Matsuyama sent his approach into the right rough at the par-4 seventh and missed a 16-foot par putt for his first bogey in 47 holes.<o:p></o:p>
Both players sank birdie putts at the par-3 eighth and Matsuyama made an eight-foot birdie putt at the ninth to make the turn with a four-stroke advantage.<o:p></o:p>
Canada's Taylor Pendrith made the first albatross in the event that launched in 1999, holing his second shot at the par-5 fifth hole from 203 yards with a 6-iron.<o:p></o:p>
Pendrith's first PGA albatross came in his 88th tour start. The ball landed short of the hole, bounced twice and then struck the flagstick and dropped in the hole.<o:p></o:p>
Top-ranked Scottie Scheffler did not compete after suffering a hand injury in a Christmas cooking accident.
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Sports, Golf: Matsuyama, the 2021 Masters champion, battled fourth-ranked Morikawa, a two-time major winner, over the back nine but stayed ahead the whole way.

Hideki Matsuyama broke the 72-hole PGA Tour tournament scoring record on Sunday, firing an eight-under par 65 to finish on 35-under par 257 and win the Sentry tournament. The 32-year-old Japanese star outdueled American Collin Morikawa to capture his 20th worldwide title and 11th PGA Tour victory in the 2025 season opener. Matsuyama sank an eight-foot birdie putt on the par-5 18th hole at the Plantation Course in Kapalua, Hawaii, to take the low-par mark for four rounds. Australian Cameron Smith had owned the PGA Tour all-time low tournament record with a 34-under 258 on the same layout in 2022. Needing a birdie at the last for the record, and with a secure lead over Morikawa, Matsuyama chipped his third from just off the green, then rolled his final putt straight into the hole, allowing himself a right fist pump of celebration. "That last putt, it felt like if I make it, it's going to be the record, so I'm so happy that it went in," Matsuyama said through a translator. Matsuyama, who took a bronze medal at the Paris Olympics, won for the third time in 12 months after titles at Riviera and Memphis last year. "I was able to get a great off-season and get a fresh start this week and play well this week so it's a great way to start," he said. Sixth-ranked Matsuyama, the 2021 Masters champion, battled fourth-ranked Morikawa, a two-time major winner, over the back nine but stayed ahead the whole way, his lead wavering between two and four shots. Also read | PL: Fernandes demands more from Manchester United after Liverpool draw "I knew Collin was going to play good today so I said, 'Hey I'm going to shoot 10-under' and that's the attitude I had," Matsuyama said. Matsuyama sank a birdie putt from just beyond 30 feet at the par-3 11th to reach 32-under but Morikawa matched him from 11 feet to stay three adrift. Answering the challenge, Matsuyama rolled in a birdie putt from just outside 21 feet at the 12th, boosting his lead to four strokes. Morikawa cut the gap with a birdie from seven feet at the 14th and reached the green in two at the par-5 15th to set up a tap-in birdie that pulled him within two. Matsuyama, however, landed his approach inside four feet at the 16th and sank the birdie putt to reach 34-under and stretch his edge back to three strokes, setting up his dramatic finish. Morikawa closed with a birdie to shoot 67 and finish second on 260, settling for his sixth consecutive top-seven finish and second runner-up trophy in three years. "Going through the shots I left out there," Morikawa said. "There's a good handful I wish I could have back. When you don't get it done that's where your mind goes." South Korea's Im Sung-jae was third on 263 with Venezuela's Jhonattan Vegas fourth on 267. Early eagle aids Hideki Matsuyama began the day with a one-stroke lead and soared early on eagle wings. Matsuyama holed out from the fairway for eagle from 107 yards at the par-4 third to reach 29-under, although Morikawa sank a birdie putt from just outside 13 feet to stay within two strokes. A tap-in birdie at the par-5 fifth lifted Matsuyama to 30-under with a three-shot lead. Matsuyama sent his approach into the right rough at the par-4 seventh and missed a 16-foot par putt for his first bogey in 47 holes. Both players sank birdie putts at the par-3 eighth and Matsuyama made an eight-foot birdie putt at the ninth to make the turn with a four-stroke advantage. Canada's Taylor Pendrith made the first albatross in the event that launched in 1999, holing his second shot at the par-5 fifth hole from 203 yards with a 6-iron. Pendrith's first PGA albatross came in his 88th tour start. The ball landed short of the hole, bounced twice and then struck the flagstick and dropped in the hole. Top-ranked Scottie Scheffler did not compete after suffering a hand injury in a Christmas cooking accident. 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.

Golf: Hideki Matsuyama sets 72-hole PGA record to win Sentry title

Frustrated Bruno Fernandes said if Manchester United can perform at Anfield they must "do it everywhere" after the crisis-hit side secured a 2-2 draw against Premier League leaders Liverpool on Sunday.<o:p></o:p>
Cody Gakpo cancelled out Lisandro Martinez's shock opener for United before Mohamed Salah put Liverpool ahead from the penalty spot, but Amad Diallo scored a late equaliser.<o:p></o:p>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/united-cup-result-coco-gauff-beats-iga-swiatek-as-usa-wins-title-8594093" rel="dofollow">United Cup Result: Coco Gauff beats Iga Swiatek as Team USA wins title</a>
The point for Liverpool takes them six clear of second-placed Arsenal with a game in hand. <o:p></o:p>
United are way down in 13th place but at least they have ended their three-game losing run in the league.<o:p></o:p>
"We have been criticised, and fairly," United captain Fernandes told Sky Sports. "Our position in the table says it all, we have lost too many points. <o:p></o:p>
"Even today we can't be happy with a point. We need the points and we could've won the game at the end, but it's a fair result. Both teams played good football.<o:p></o:p>
"I'm pretty upset. If we show this level at Liverpool, first in the league, why can't we do this everywhere? It frustrates me. Also, finally I did a proper performance. We said we need much more from ourselves to get more from this season."<o:p></o:p>
The midfielder said next week's FA Cup tie at Arsenal would be tough for the holders but "we want to get to the final again".<o:p></o:p>
"We know how tough it is to play against Liverpool," he said. "Today we put in a real effort to the game -- playing with some passion and heart is what is going to give you something from the game. You have to put in effort and that's why we took something from today.<o:p></o:p>
"It can't stop here, we have to bring this frustration to the next game to understand this has to be the level. If we can do it an Anfield, we have to do it everywhere."<o:p></o:p>
Liverpool skipper Virgil van Dijk said it could have been worse for his team if Harry Maguire had converted a late chance.<o:p></o:p>
"I'm definitely disappointed with dropping points at home but it is what is and we have to move on and we will," he said. "We found the 2-1 and then it is about trying to manage the game and keep the ball for longer than three and four passes. <o:p></o:p>
"We lost the ball too easily at times and then we were more open than we should have been. We're not perfect, we're still learning and we have to learn from this as well."<o:p></o:p>
The defender said Liverpool had not underestimated United, despite their rivals' troubles this season.<o:p></o:p>
"That's all the media, media talk," he said. "It's nothing to do with us. We prepared for a very tough game like we have seen today. We didn't think any of that."<o:p></o:p>
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Sports, football: Gakpo cancelled out Martinez's shock opener for United before Mohamed Salah put Liverpool ahead from the penalty spot, but Amad Diallo scored a late equaliser.

Frustrated Bruno Fernandes said if Manchester United can perform at Anfield they must "do it everywhere" after the crisis-hit side secured a 2-2 draw against Premier League leaders Liverpool on Sunday. Cody Gakpo cancelled out Lisandro Martinez's shock opener for United before Mohamed Salah put Liverpool ahead from the penalty spot, but Amad Diallo scored a late equaliser. Also read | United Cup Result: Coco Gauff beats Iga Swiatek as Team USA wins title The point for Liverpool takes them six clear of second-placed Arsenal with a game in hand. United are way down in 13th place but at least they have ended their three-game losing run in the league. "We have been criticised, and fairly," United captain Fernandes told Sky Sports. "Our position in the table says it all, we have lost too many points. "Even today we can't be happy with a point. We need the points and we could've won the game at the end, but it's a fair result. Both teams played good football. "I'm pretty upset. If we show this level at Liverpool, first in the league, why can't we do this everywhere? It frustrates me. Also, finally I did a proper performance. We said we need much more from ourselves to get more from this season." The midfielder said next week's FA Cup tie at Arsenal would be tough for the holders but "we want to get to the final again". "We know how tough it is to play against Liverpool," he said. "Today we put in a real effort to the game -- playing with some passion and heart is what is going to give you something from the game. You have to put in effort and that's why we took something from today. "It can't stop here, we have to bring this frustration to the next game to understand this has to be the level. If we can do it an Anfield, we have to do it everywhere." Liverpool skipper Virgil van Dijk said it could have been worse for his team if Harry Maguire had converted a late chance. "I'm definitely disappointed with dropping points at home but it is what is and we have to move on and we will," he said. "We found the 2-1 and then it is about trying to manage the game and keep the ball for longer than three and four passes. "We lost the ball too easily at times and then we were more open than we should have been. We're not perfect, we're still learning and we have to learn from this as well." The defender said Liverpool had not underestimated United, despite their rivals' troubles this season. "That's all the media, media talk," he said. "It's nothing to do with us. We prepared for a very tough game like we have seen today. We didn't think any of that." 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: Fernandes demands more from Manchester United after Liverpool draw

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta said he had never seen anything like Brighton's controversial penalty to earn a 1-1 draw on Saturday that dealt another seismic blow to the Gunners' Premier League title challenge.<o:p></o:p>
Runaway leaders Liverpool hold a five point advantage over second-placed Arsenal and have two games in hand to come, starting with Sunday's clash against struggling Manchester United at Anfield.<o:p></o:p>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-misses-presidential-medal-ceremony-with-joe-biden-heres-why-8592600" rel="dofollow">Messi misses Presidential Medal ceremony with Joe Biden, here&rsquo;s why</a>
Shorn of many of their most potent attacking weapons, Arteta's men led at half-time thanks to 17-year-old Ethan Nwaneri's strike.<o:p></o:p>
But two vital points slipped away when William Saliba was harshly punished for a clash of heads with Joao Pedro and the Brazilian slotted home the resulting spot-kick.<o:p></o:p>
"We are really disappointed with the decision that leads to the goal because I have never seen something like this in my life," said Arteta. "He (Saliba) touches the ball as well."<o:p></o:p>
With talisman Bukayo Saka out for the next two months with a hamstring injury, Arsenal's attacking options were further depleted by illness.<o:p></o:p>
Kai Havertz failed to even make the matchday squad for the second consecutive game, while captain Martin Odegaard and Gabriel Martinelli were only fit enough for appearances as second-half substitutes.<o:p></o:p>
Nwaneri was the beneficiary with a second consecutive start and showed why he is one of the Premier League's rising stars with a clinical finish for the opening goal.<o:p></o:p>
The teenager still had plenty to do as he raced onto Mikel Merino's ball over the top but his pace took him beyond the Brighton defence before firing low into the far corner on 16 minutes.<o:p></o:p>
But even he then had to replaced by Martinelli at half-time after suffering a muscle injury.<o:p></o:p>
"We gave the ball away and we didn&rsquo;t do the simple things well enough to be really on top of the game and have the dominance we required," added Arteta. "We did a lot of things not to the standard with the ball. So we didn't get any momentum, we never got set in areas that after we could generate chances."<o:p></o:p>
Arsenal lacked any penetration without their quartet of attacking stars to build on their lead.<o:p></o:p>
Merino had the one big opportunity to double the Gunners' advantage early in the second period when he skewed wide from Declan Rice's free-kick.<o:p></o:p>
Moments later the visitors were rocked by a controversial call that could have huge ramifications for the title race.<o:p></o:p>
There was the slightest touch from Saliba's head onto Joao Pedro's but the Brighton forward went down clutching his face and got the reward of a spot-kick.<o:p></o:p>
The Seagulls captain for the day, in the absence of Lewis Dunk, confidently stroked home the penalty to level.<o:p></o:p>
Arteta responded immediately by summoning Odegaard from the bench.<o:p></o:p>
However, it was Brighton who looked the most likely winners in the closing stages.<o:p></o:p>
Yakuba Minteh wasted a great chance to end their now eight-game winless run when his shot across goal evaded both Yasin Ayari and Kaoru Mitoma and slid wide of the far post.<o:p></o:p>
"It should be more than a point," said Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler. "We came back but we were not clean enough in the final third. We had big chances."<o:p></o:p>
A point is enough to edge Brighton back into 10th.
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: Runaway Premier League leaders Liverpool hold a five point advantage over second-placed Arsenal and have two games in hand to come.

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta said he had never seen anything like Brighton's controversial penalty to earn a 1-1 draw on Saturday that dealt another seismic blow to the Gunners' Premier League title challenge. Runaway leaders Liverpool hold a five point advantage over second-placed Arsenal and have two games in hand to come, starting with Sunday's clash against struggling Manchester United at Anfield. Also read | Messi misses Presidential Medal ceremony with Joe Biden, here’s why Shorn of many of their most potent attacking weapons, Arteta's men led at half-time thanks to 17-year-old Ethan Nwaneri's strike. But two vital points slipped away when William Saliba was harshly punished for a clash of heads with Joao Pedro and the Brazilian slotted home the resulting spot-kick. "We are really disappointed with the decision that leads to the goal because I have never seen something like this in my life," said Arteta. "He (Saliba) touches the ball as well." With talisman Bukayo Saka out for the next two months with a hamstring injury, Arsenal's attacking options were further depleted by illness. Kai Havertz failed to even make the matchday squad for the second consecutive game, while captain Martin Odegaard and Gabriel Martinelli were only fit enough for appearances as second-half substitutes. Nwaneri was the beneficiary with a second consecutive start and showed why he is one of the Premier League's rising stars with a clinical finish for the opening goal. The teenager still had plenty to do as he raced onto Mikel Merino's ball over the top but his pace took him beyond the Brighton defence before firing low into the far corner on 16 minutes. But even he then had to replaced by Martinelli at half-time after suffering a muscle injury. "We gave the ball away and we didn’t do the simple things well enough to be really on top of the game and have the dominance we required," added Arteta. "We did a lot of things not to the standard with the ball. So we didn't get any momentum, we never got set in areas that after we could generate chances." Arsenal lacked any penetration without their quartet of attacking stars to build on their lead. Merino had the one big opportunity to double the Gunners' advantage early in the second period when he skewed wide from Declan Rice's free-kick. Moments later the visitors were rocked by a controversial call that could have huge ramifications for the title race. There was the slightest touch from Saliba's head onto Joao Pedro's but the Brighton forward went down clutching his face and got the reward of a spot-kick. The Seagulls captain for the day, in the absence of Lewis Dunk, confidently stroked home the penalty to level. Arteta responded immediately by summoning Odegaard from the bench. However, it was Brighton who looked the most likely winners in the closing stages. Yakuba Minteh wasted a great chance to end their now eight-game winless run when his shot across goal evaded both Yasin Ayari and Kaoru Mitoma and slid wide of the far post. "It should be more than a point," said Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler. "We came back but we were not clean enough in the final third. We had big chances." A point is enough to edge Brighton back into 10th. 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: Arteta appalled at Brighton penalty as Arsenal slip in title race

Lionel Messi was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States, by President Joe Biden on Saturday but did not attend the ceremony at the White House. The Argentine World Cup winner and eight times Ballon d'Or winner, now plays in the United States for Major League Soccer's Inter Miami.<o:p></o:p>
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Messi is the first Argentine to receive the honor and the first male soccer player. But while other recipients of the award, including U2 singer and activist Bono, former basketball star Earvin "Magic" Johnson and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, attended the ceremony at the White House, Messi was absent.<o:p></o:p>
Messi's representatives said in a statement distributed by Inter Miami that Messi had a prior commitment.<o:p></o:p>
"The White House informed FIFA, who informed the club at the end of December that Leo was going to be awarded with this recognition," the statement read. "Leo, through the club, sent a letter to the White House saying that he is deeply honored and that it is a profound privilege to receive this recognition but that due to scheduling conflicts and prior commitments he was going to be unable to attend. <o:p></o:p>
"He appreciated the gesture and noted that he hopes to have the opportunity to meet in the near future," the statement added.<o:p></o:p>
The award is given to individuals who have made "exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values or security of the United States, world peace or other significant societal, public or private endeavors," according to the White House.<o:p></o:p>
The White House statement said that Messi had been given the award as "the most decorated player in the history of professional soccer. He supports healthcare and education programs for children around the world through the Leo Messi Foundation and serves as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador."<o:p></o:p>
Biden handed USA women's soccer star Megan Rapinoe the medal in 2022, the first time a soccer player has been given the honor.
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: The Argentine World Cup winner and eight times Ballon d'Or winner, now plays in the United States for Major League Soccer's Inter Miami.

Lionel Messi was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States, by President Joe Biden on Saturday but did not attend the ceremony at the White House. The Argentine World Cup winner and eight times Ballon d'Or winner, now plays in the United States for Major League Soccer's Inter Miami. Also read | Premier League: Erling Haaland scores brace in Man City win; Spurs lose to Newcastle Messi is the first Argentine to receive the honor and the first male soccer player. But while other recipients of the award, including U2 singer and activist Bono, former basketball star Earvin "Magic" Johnson and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, attended the ceremony at the White House, Messi was absent. Messi's representatives said in a statement distributed by Inter Miami that Messi had a prior commitment. "The White House informed FIFA, who informed the club at the end of December that Leo was going to be awarded with this recognition," the statement read. "Leo, through the club, sent a letter to the White House saying that he is deeply honored and that it is a profound privilege to receive this recognition but that due to scheduling conflicts and prior commitments he was going to be unable to attend. "He appreciated the gesture and noted that he hopes to have the opportunity to meet in the near future," the statement added. The award is given to individuals who have made "exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values or security of the United States, world peace or other significant societal, public or private endeavors," according to the White House. The White House statement said that Messi had been given the award as "the most decorated player in the history of professional soccer. He supports healthcare and education programs for children around the world through the Leo Messi Foundation and serves as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador." Biden handed USA women's soccer star Megan Rapinoe the medal in 2022, the first time a soccer player has been given the honor. 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.

Messi misses Presidential Medal ceremony with Joe Biden, here’s why

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar advised Rohit Sharma to play in the Ranji Trophy (India&rsquo;s red-ball domestic competition) as the batter struggles with the bat. Rohit opted not to play in the Sydney Test after a poor run of form saw him make way for Shubman Gill in the Playing XI. However, Gavaskar has now backed his follow Mumbaikar to play in the domestic competition and regain his spot for the England series despite rumours that he will announce his retirement from the game.&nbsp;
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Gavaskar advices Rohit</h2>
&ldquo;Well, there are not much of four-day games that are available, but if there are some like the Ranji Trophy, if Mumbai do qualify for the knockout stages, he should be looking to play some matches,&rdquo; Gavaskar told India Today.
&ldquo;I know it's a little bit unfair on some of the boys who've been playing in the initial and qualifying stages to make way for him. But in the larger interest of Indian cricket, I think if there is a spot for him to play, he should be doing that because that's the one way that he will be giving himself time out in the middle,&rdquo; Gavaskar said.
Before opting out of the Sydney Test, Rohit had scored 31 runs in five innings which saw him draw criticism from all corners. Since leading India to the T20 World Cup glory in the West Indies in June, Rohit&rsquo;s form has become a huge matter of concern.
ALSO READ | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/la-liga-spanish-football-federation-reject-dani-olmos-barcelona-registration-8591514" aria-label="La Liga, Spanish Football Federation reject Dani Olmo's Barcelona registration" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">La Liga, Spanish Football Federation reject Dani Olmo's Barcelona registration</a>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Rishabh Pant scores quickfire fifty</h2>
Bumrah&rsquo;s absence could be felt big time as India struggled with the bat in their second innings of the Sydney Test. The top order yet again failed to perform with Yashasvi Jaiswal scoring (22), KL Rahul (13) and Shubman Gill (13). Virat Kohli also failed to make the most of his last innings in the series and scored six runs while getting out to Boland in a similar fashion as last matches.
Rishabh Pant was the stand-out batter with 61 runs off 33 balls before falling to Pat Cummins. India at stumps on Day 2 were 141/6 and lead by 145 runs as they look to stay in the contest with a big score.

Sports, Cricket:  Rohit Sharma opted not to play in the Sydney Test after a poor run of form saw him make way for Shubman Gill in the Playing XI against Australia. 

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar advised Rohit Sharma to play in the Ranji Trophy (India’s red-ball domestic competition) as the batter struggles with the bat. Rohit opted not to play in the Sydney Test after a poor run of form saw him make way for Shubman Gill in the Playing XI. However, Gavaskar has now backed his follow Mumbaikar to play in the domestic competition and regain his spot for the England series despite rumours that he will announce his retirement from the game. Gavaskar advices Rohit “Well, there are not much of four-day games that are available, but if there are some like the Ranji Trophy, if Mumbai do qualify for the knockout stages, he should be looking to play some matches,” Gavaskar told India Today. “I know it's a little bit unfair on some of the boys who've been playing in the initial and qualifying stages to make way for him. But in the larger interest of Indian cricket, I think if there is a spot for him to play, he should be doing that because that's the one way that he will be giving himself time out in the middle,” Gavaskar said. Before opting out of the Sydney Test, Rohit had scored 31 runs in five innings which saw him draw criticism from all corners. Since leading India to the T20 World Cup glory in the West Indies in June, Rohit’s form has become a huge matter of concern. ALSO READ | La Liga, Spanish Football Federation reject Dani Olmo's Barcelona registration Rishabh Pant scores quickfire fifty Bumrah’s absence could be felt big time as India struggled with the bat in their second innings of the Sydney Test. The top order yet again failed to perform with Yashasvi Jaiswal scoring (22), KL Rahul (13) and Shubman Gill (13). Virat Kohli also failed to make the most of his last innings in the series and scored six runs while getting out to Boland in a similar fashion as last matches. Rishabh Pant was the stand-out batter with 61 runs off 33 balls before falling to Pat Cummins. India at stumps on Day 2 were 141/6 and lead by 145 runs as they look to stay in the contest with a big score.

BGT 2024/25: 'Rohit should play in Ranji Trophy,' says Sunil Gavaskar as India captain struggles with bat

Erling Haaland scored twice as Manchester City pummelled West Ham 4-1 in the Premier League on Saturday while in-form Newcastle inflicted another painful defeat on Ange Postecoglou's struggling Tottenham.
Chelsea's recent woes continued with a 1-1 draw at Crystal Palace, meaning they have taken just two points from four games over the festive period.
Defending champions City&nbsp;returned to winning ways at Leicester last week after a long lean spell and picked up three more points against Julen Lopetegui's West Ham at the Etihad.
Pep Guardiola's men took the lead in the 10th minute when Vladimir Coufal deflected Savinho's cross past goalkeeper Alphonse Areola.&nbsp;
Savinho also had a hand in the second goal, shortly before half-time, beating his man twice before crossing to Haaland, who lost Max Kilman and headed home.
The same players combined for City's third in the 55th minute, before Phil Foden joined the party for their fourth. The home side were denied a clean sheet by Niclas Fuellkrug.
West Ham appeared to have turned the corner last month but they have now conceded nine goals in two games following a 5-0 mauling at home by Premier League leaders Liverpool.
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<h2>Angriest in career</h2>
In the early kick-off at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, Newcastle came from behind to clinch a fifth straight Premier League win and heap more misery on injury-hit Spurs.
The home side went ahead in the fourth minute through Dominic Solanke.
Newcastle levelled two minutes later when Antony Gordon arrowed an effort into the bottom corner but Postecoglou stood in disbelief on the touchline looking at referee Andrew Madley after Joelinton intercepted Lucas Bergvall's pass with his hand in the build-up.
VAR deemed Joelinton's arm to be in a natural position and the contact to be accidental, which provoked a furious reaction from Tottenham's bench and they were up in arms midway through the first half when the already-booked Dan Burn avoided a second yellow card for handball by the centre circle.
In-form Alexander Isak scored what turned out to be the winner towards the end of the first half.
The victory leaves Newcastle in fifth spot, which may yet prove enough to secure a place in the Champions League next season, but Spurs have slumped to 12th in the table after five defeats in seven matches.
Postecoglou said he was proud of his players but was the "angriest I think I have ever been in my career".
"I think it's clear," said the Australian. "Now whether people agree with me or not whether it wasn't handball or it was accidental, I'm just not interested in any of that discussion.
"I know what everyone wants me to say, but all I'll say is that on any other day, on a fair and even playing ground, we would have won that game. Simple as that."
Newcastle boss Eddie Howe admitted the ball hit Joelinton's arm but said he was not in control of the referee's decision.
"I believe his arm is down in a natural position and the referee and VAR have followed the rules and protocols that are in place," he said. "That's why it is given."
Enzo Maresca's Chelsea were closing in on Liverpool just two weeks ago but are now nine points behind the Reds, having played two games more.
The Italian made six changes for the match at Selhurst Park and his side took the lead when Jadon Sancho drove down the left and found Cole Palmer, who sliced a low shot into the bottom right corner.
The visitors enjoyed the bulk of possession but they could not capitalise and Jean-Philippe Mateta levelled in the 82nd minute.
Aston Villa beat relegation-threatened Leicester 2-1 at home with goals from Ross Barkley and Leon Bailey.
Brentford recorded a rare win on the road, smashing bottom side Southampton 5-0, and Bournemouth beat Everton 1-0.
Second-placed Arsenal are in action at Brighton in the 1730 GMT kick-off while Premier League leaders Liverpool host crisis-hit Manchester United on Sunday.
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: Chelsea's recent woes continued with a 1-1 draw at Crystal Palace, meaning they have taken just two points from four games over the festive period.

Erling Haaland scored twice as Manchester City pummelled West Ham 4-1 in the Premier League on Saturday while in-form Newcastle inflicted another painful defeat on Ange Postecoglou's struggling Tottenham. Chelsea's recent woes continued with a 1-1 draw at Crystal Palace, meaning they have taken just two points from four games over the festive period. Defending champions City returned to winning ways at Leicester last week after a long lean spell and picked up three more points against Julen Lopetegui's West Ham at the Etihad. Pep Guardiola's men took the lead in the 10th minute when Vladimir Coufal deflected Savinho's cross past goalkeeper Alphonse Areola. Savinho also had a hand in the second goal, shortly before half-time, beating his man twice before crossing to Haaland, who lost Max Kilman and headed home. The same players combined for City's third in the 55th minute, before Phil Foden joined the party for their fourth. The home side were denied a clean sheet by Niclas Fuellkrug. West Ham appeared to have turned the corner last month but they have now conceded nine goals in two games following a 5-0 mauling at home by Premier League leaders Liverpool. ALSO READ | La Liga, Spanish Football Federation reject Dani Olmo's Barcelona registration Angriest in career In the early kick-off at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, Newcastle came from behind to clinch a fifth straight Premier League win and heap more misery on injury-hit Spurs. The home side went ahead in the fourth minute through Dominic Solanke. Newcastle levelled two minutes later when Antony Gordon arrowed an effort into the bottom corner but Postecoglou stood in disbelief on the touchline looking at referee Andrew Madley after Joelinton intercepted Lucas Bergvall's pass with his hand in the build-up. VAR deemed Joelinton's arm to be in a natural position and the contact to be accidental, which provoked a furious reaction from Tottenham's bench and they were up in arms midway through the first half when the already-booked Dan Burn avoided a second yellow card for handball by the centre circle. In-form Alexander Isak scored what turned out to be the winner towards the end of the first half. The victory leaves Newcastle in fifth spot, which may yet prove enough to secure a place in the Champions League next season, but Spurs have slumped to 12th in the table after five defeats in seven matches. Postecoglou said he was proud of his players but was the "angriest I think I have ever been in my career". "I think it's clear," said the Australian. "Now whether people agree with me or not whether it wasn't handball or it was accidental, I'm just not interested in any of that discussion. "I know what everyone wants me to say, but all I'll say is that on any other day, on a fair and even playing ground, we would have won that game. Simple as that." Newcastle boss Eddie Howe admitted the ball hit Joelinton's arm but said he was not in control of the referee's decision. "I believe his arm is down in a natural position and the referee and VAR have followed the rules and protocols that are in place," he said. "That's why it is given." Enzo Maresca's Chelsea were closing in on Liverpool just two weeks ago but are now nine points behind the Reds, having played two games more. The Italian made six changes for the match at Selhurst Park and his side took the lead when Jadon Sancho drove down the left and found Cole Palmer, who sliced a low shot into the bottom right corner. The visitors enjoyed the bulk of possession but they could not capitalise and Jean-Philippe Mateta levelled in the 82nd minute. Aston Villa beat relegation-threatened Leicester 2-1 at home with goals from Ross Barkley and Leon Bailey. Brentford recorded a rare win on the road, smashing bottom side Southampton 5-0, and Bournemouth beat Everton 1-0. Second-placed Arsenal are in action at Brighton in the 1730 GMT kick-off while Premier League leaders Liverpool host crisis-hit Manchester United on Sunday. 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: Erling Haaland scores brace in Man City win; Spurs lose to Newcastle

South Africa have taken complete control of the ongoing second Test match against Pakistan after their batters highlighted the day with a flawless performance on Day 2. Playing at the Newlands in Cape Town, South Africa&rsquo;s Ryan Rickelton was the star of the show after he scored a double ton before getting out on 259. His hundred was coupled with Temba Bavuma and Kyle Verreynne&rsquo;s own tons while Pakistan batters had an off day at Stumps.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Ryan Rickelton steals the show</h2>
Having continued from his overnight flawless show, Rickelton became the first South African since 2017 to score a double ton for the nation. His innings consisted of 29 fours and 3 sixes and was striking at 75 before falling to Mir Hamza. He along with skipper Bavuma (106) stitched a partnership of 235 runs for the fourth wicket which laid the foundation for a big score.
Rickelton would later partner Verreynne (100) to put together a stand of 148 runs for the sixth wicket before the latter was dismissed. Healthy contributions from Marco Jansen (62) and Keshav Maharaj (40) helped Rickelton reach the double ton. The score is the joint-seventh highest individual score for South Africa in the Test format.
Had Rickelton scored a triple hundred, he would have become just the second South African batter after legendary Hashim Amla to reach the magical triple figure mark.
ALSO READ | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/la-liga-spanish-football-federation-reject-dani-olmos-barcelona-registration-8591514" aria-label="La Liga, Spanish Football Federation reject Dani Olmo's Barcelona registration" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">La Liga, Spanish Football Federation reject Dani Olmo's Barcelona registration</a>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Pakistan on the back foot</h2>
After bowling out South Africa for 615, Pakistan did not have the best start to their innings as they closed the day at 64/3. Former captain Babar Azam is unbeaten on 31 while Shan Masood was dismissed for 2 on the last ball of the first over. Kamran Ghulam (12) and Saud Shakeel (0) were the other Pakistani batters to be dismissed before the stumps on Day 2. Pakistan closed the day on 64/3 and still trail South Africa by 551 runs in the first innings.

Sports, Cricket:  Playing at the Newlands in Cape Town, South Africa’s Ryan Rickelton was the star of the show after he scored a double ton before getting out on 259. 

South Africa have taken complete control of the ongoing second Test match against Pakistan after their batters highlighted the day with a flawless performance on Day 2. Playing at the Newlands in Cape Town, South Africa’s Ryan Rickelton was the star of the show after he scored a double ton before getting out on 259. His hundred was coupled with Temba Bavuma and Kyle Verreynne’s own tons while Pakistan batters had an off day at Stumps. Ryan Rickelton steals the show Having continued from his overnight flawless show, Rickelton became the first South African since 2017 to score a double ton for the nation. His innings consisted of 29 fours and 3 sixes and was striking at 75 before falling to Mir Hamza. He along with skipper Bavuma (106) stitched a partnership of 235 runs for the fourth wicket which laid the foundation for a big score. Rickelton would later partner Verreynne (100) to put together a stand of 148 runs for the sixth wicket before the latter was dismissed. Healthy contributions from Marco Jansen (62) and Keshav Maharaj (40) helped Rickelton reach the double ton. The score is the joint-seventh highest individual score for South Africa in the Test format. Had Rickelton scored a triple hundred, he would have become just the second South African batter after legendary Hashim Amla to reach the magical triple figure mark. ALSO READ | La Liga, Spanish Football Federation reject Dani Olmo's Barcelona registration Pakistan on the back foot After bowling out South Africa for 615, Pakistan did not have the best start to their innings as they closed the day at 64/3. Former captain Babar Azam is unbeaten on 31 while Shan Masood was dismissed for 2 on the last ball of the first over. Kamran Ghulam (12) and Saud Shakeel (0) were the other Pakistani batters to be dismissed before the stumps on Day 2. Pakistan closed the day on 64/3 and still trail South Africa by 551 runs in the first innings.

SA vs PAK, 2nd Test: Ryan Rickelton headlines Day 2 with double ton; Pakistan top order flops in first innings

Trouble in paradise? We are not saying this, but reports suggest that Indian cricketer Yuzvendra Chahal and his wife, actor-choreographer Dhanashree Verma are heading for divorce.&nbsp;
Yuzvendra Chahal and choreographer Dhanashree Verma tied the knot on December 22, 2020
<h2>Yuzvendra Chahal And Dhanashree Verma headed for divorce?&nbsp;</h2>
Reports about Yuzvendra Chahal and Dhanashree's separation have been dominating the headlines for a year now. However, there has been no official confirmation of this from the couple yet.
The reports made headlines again after some eagle-eyed netizens noticed that the duo had unfollowed each other on Instagram.&nbsp;
Also read: <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/pakistani-actress-hania-aamir-grooves-on-katrina-kaifs-chikni-chameli-watch-8591085" aria-label="Pakistani actress Hania Aamir grooves to Katrina Kaif's Chikni Chameli | Watch viral video">Pakistani actress Hania Aamir grooves to Katrina Kaif's Chikni Chameli | Watch viral video</a>
The cricketer has deleted all photos and videos with his wife including wedding pictures from his Instagram feed. Meanwhile, some photos and videos are still visible on Dhanashree's Instagram feed.&nbsp;
These secret activities have fueled the speculations about their rumoured split.&nbsp;
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While there is no confirmation, a close source to the couple told the Times of India that the rumours are indeed true.&nbsp;
"The divorce is inevitable, and it's only a matter of time before it becomes official. The exact reasons for their separation are not known yet, but it's clear that the couple has decided to move on with their lives separately," a source said.
The divorce rumours started in 2022 after Dhanashree removed her surname &ldquo;Chahal&rdquo; from her Instagram handle.
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Back then Chahal shared a cryptic post on his Instagram story, reading, &ldquo;New Life Loading.&rdquo; However, Dhanashree shared a post that read, &ldquo;A princess will always turn her pain into power.&rdquo;
These mysterious activities fueled rumours about their separation.
<h2>Yuzvendra Chahal and Dhanashree Verma's love story and marriage&nbsp;</h2>
Yuzvendra Chahal and Dhanashree Verma first met in Gurugram in December 2020 after the cricketer Chahal signed up for Dhanashree's YouTube dance classes during the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;
After dating for a few months, Chahal and Mumbai-based dentist and choreographer Dhanashree got married in Gurugram in December 2020.

Yuzvendra Chahal -Dhanashree Verma divorce rumours: Reports about the duo's separation have been dominating the headlines for a year now. However, there has been no official confirmation of this. 

Trouble in paradise? We are not saying this, but reports suggest that Indian cricketer Yuzvendra Chahal and his wife, actor-choreographer Dhanashree Verma are heading for divorce. Yuzvendra Chahal and choreographer Dhanashree Verma tied the knot on December 22, 2020 Yuzvendra Chahal And Dhanashree Verma headed for divorce? Reports about Yuzvendra Chahal and Dhanashree's separation have been dominating the headlines for a year now. However, there has been no official confirmation of this from the couple yet. The reports made headlines again after some eagle-eyed netizens noticed that the duo had unfollowed each other on Instagram. Also read: Pakistani actress Hania Aamir grooves to Katrina Kaif's Chikni Chameli | Watch viral video The cricketer has deleted all photos and videos with his wife including wedding pictures from his Instagram feed. Meanwhile, some photos and videos are still visible on Dhanashree's Instagram feed. These secret activities have fueled the speculations about their rumoured split. View this post on Instagram A post shared by F I L M Y G Y A N (@filmygyan) While there is no confirmation, a close source to the couple told the Times of India that the rumours are indeed true. "The divorce is inevitable, and it's only a matter of time before it becomes official. The exact reasons for their separation are not known yet, but it's clear that the couple has decided to move on with their lives separately," a source said. The divorce rumours started in 2022 after Dhanashree removed her surname “Chahal” from her Instagram handle. Also read: Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas vacation: Actress looks mesmerizing in bikini, shares her goal for 2025 Back then Chahal shared a cryptic post on his Instagram story, reading, “New Life Loading.” However, Dhanashree shared a post that read, “A princess will always turn her pain into power.” These mysterious activities fueled rumours about their separation. Yuzvendra Chahal and Dhanashree Verma's love story and marriage Yuzvendra Chahal and Dhanashree Verma first met in Gurugram in December 2020 after the cricketer Chahal signed up for Dhanashree's YouTube dance classes during the COVID-19 pandemic. After dating for a few months, Chahal and Mumbai-based dentist and choreographer Dhanashree got married in Gurugram in December 2020.

Yuzvendra Chahal and Dhanashree Verma heading for divorce? Couple unfollows each other on Instagram

La Liga and the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) have rejected Barcelona&rsquo;s registration of attacker Dani Olmo as reported on Saturday (Jan 4). Olmo, a big-money signing from RB Leipzig in the summer is now eligible to play for Barcelona just six months after signing for the Spanish giants. As things stand, Barcelona will challenge the call in court hoping to re-register their summer acquisition.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5ia5q0b-cwez7f62-ryftcpkq">
🚨⛔️ OFFICIAL: La Liga and Spanish Federation RFEF have jointly decided to REJECT Dani Olmo and Pau Victor's registrations for Barcelona. Barcelona will go to court. ⚠️ <a href="https://t.co/eW1Y8OHNir">pic.twitter.com/eW1Y8OHNir</a>
&mdash; Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) <a href="https://twitter.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1875527672522289488?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Barcelona fail with Olmo's registration</h2>
Having missed the deadline of Dec 31 to prove they were compliant with LaLiga's financial fair play (FFP) regulations, Barcelona were always in danger of missing out on their key asset who was signed for &euro;60 million ($62m). Barcelona have faced FFP issues in recent years, which also led to the release of Lionel Messi in 2021.
According to La Liga, Barca provided the necessary documentation to have their spending limit for the season extended on Friday, but it came too late for Olmo and Pau Victor, who had their registrations cancelled on Wednesday.
ALSO READ | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-rishabh-pant-hits-second-fastest-test-fifty-for-india-at-scg-watch-8590298" aria-label="BGT: Rishabh Pant hits second fastest Test fifty for India at SCG &ndash; WATCH" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">BGT: Rishabh Pant hits second fastest Test fifty for India at SCG &ndash; WATCH</a>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Barcelona to appeal decision</h2>
Just minutes after the decision came, Barcelona confirmed they will go to the Administrative Court of Sport (CSD) for Olmo and Victor's registration cases. Barcelona are confident they can raise enough money in the coming days to re-register the players with reports stating they are willing to sell VIP seats on a multi-year deal in their new stadium which is under construction.
Barcelona&rsquo;s financial troubles will also take a toll on their summer and winter transfer window spending. The club&rsquo;s main priority will be to sign players on a free transfer while registering them for low salaries.
Interestingly, this was also the case at the start of this season where Barcelona had to shift İlkay G&uuml;ndoğan out to lower the salary cap. G&uuml;ndoğan&rsquo;s high made it impossible for Barcelona to register a new player, meaning their hands were tied in the deal to send G&uuml;ndoğan back to Manchester City.

Sports, Football:  Dani Olmo, a big-money signing from RB Leipzig in the summer is now eligible to play for Barcelona just six months after signing for the Spanish giants. 

La Liga and the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) have rejected Barcelona’s registration of attacker Dani Olmo as reported on Saturday (Jan 4). Olmo, a big-money signing from RB Leipzig in the summer is now eligible to play for Barcelona just six months after signing for the Spanish giants. As things stand, Barcelona will challenge the call in court hoping to re-register their summer acquisition. 🚨⛔️ OFFICIAL: La Liga and Spanish Federation RFEF have jointly decided to REJECT Dani Olmo and Pau Victor's registrations for Barcelona. Barcelona will go to court. ⚠️ pic.twitter.com/eW1Y8OHNir — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 4, 2025 Barcelona fail with Olmo's registration Having missed the deadline of Dec 31 to prove they were compliant with LaLiga's financial fair play (FFP) regulations, Barcelona were always in danger of missing out on their key asset who was signed for €60 million ($62m). Barcelona have faced FFP issues in recent years, which also led to the release of Lionel Messi in 2021. According to La Liga, Barca provided the necessary documentation to have their spending limit for the season extended on Friday, but it came too late for Olmo and Pau Victor, who had their registrations cancelled on Wednesday. ALSO READ | BGT: Rishabh Pant hits second fastest Test fifty for India at SCG – WATCH Barcelona to appeal decision Just minutes after the decision came, Barcelona confirmed they will go to the Administrative Court of Sport (CSD) for Olmo and Victor's registration cases. Barcelona are confident they can raise enough money in the coming days to re-register the players with reports stating they are willing to sell VIP seats on a multi-year deal in their new stadium which is under construction. Barcelona’s financial troubles will also take a toll on their summer and winter transfer window spending. The club’s main priority will be to sign players on a free transfer while registering them for low salaries. Interestingly, this was also the case at the start of this season where Barcelona had to shift İlkay Gündoğan out to lower the salary cap. Gündoğan’s high made it impossible for Barcelona to register a new player, meaning their hands were tied in the deal to send Gündoğan back to Manchester City.

La Liga, Spanish Football Federation reject Dani Olmo's Barcelona registration

World number one Aryna Sabalenka brushed aside Russian teenage sensation Mirra Andreeva to storm into the final of the Brisbane International on Saturday, as men's defending champion Grigor Dimitrov retired with soreness.&nbsp;
<h2>Sabalenka in final</h2>
Sabalenka broke Andreeva once in the first set and twice in the second to win 6-3, 6-2 in an ominous display just over a week before she launches her Australian Open defence.
Sabalenka, runner-up in Brisbane in 2024, has won the last two Australian Opens and the way she absorbed the pressure from Andreeva in the first set, then turned the screws in the second, showed why she is considered a strong chance to make it three in a row this year.
"I definitely think that I have improved a lot mentally, physically and skills as well," the Belarusian said.
"I think every year I'm getting a little bit better."
Sabalenka now plays Russian qualifier Polina Kudermetova, who continued her fairytale week when she beat Ukraine's Anhelina Kalinina 6-4, 6-3.
In the men's draw, Dimitrov retired from his semi-final with a painful hip.&nbsp;
Unseeded Czech player Jiri Lehecka was leading 6-4, 4-4 when the Bulgarian left the court with the physiotherapist for a medical timeout.
Dimitrov, ranked 10 in the world, returned but played one point before retiring.
Lehecka will play giant American Reilly Opelka, who has one of the biggest serves in the game.
It will be the 23-year-old Lehecka's fourth final on the ATP Tour and he will be aiming to add the Brisbane title to his Adelaide win last January.
ALSO READ | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-rishabh-pant-hits-second-fastest-test-fifty-for-india-at-scg-watch-8590298" aria-label="BGT: Rishabh Pant hits second fastest Test fifty for India at SCG &ndash; WATCH" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">BGT: Rishabh Pant hits second fastest Test fifty for India at SCG &ndash; WATCH</a>
"I will need to be focused 100 percent all the time," Lehecka said about facing Opelka's huge serve in the final.
"I will need to focus on every point, every chance, because the chance can be gone in a very small moment."&nbsp;
Opelka, who was ranked 17 in the world before being forced out of the game for almost two years with wrist and hip injuries, managed to outserve rising French star Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard.
He broke the Frenchman in the first set then was able to take the tiebreak to win 6-3, 7-6 (7/4).
"It's great to be in another final -- I didn't think I'd be playing in one at all," Opelka said.
"But once I was out of pain I had confidence that I could make it back."
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: Sabalenka broke Andreeva once in the first set and twice in the second to win in an ominous display just over a week before the Australian Open.

World number one Aryna Sabalenka brushed aside Russian teenage sensation Mirra Andreeva to storm into the final of the Brisbane International on Saturday, as men's defending champion Grigor Dimitrov retired with soreness. Sabalenka in final Sabalenka broke Andreeva once in the first set and twice in the second to win 6-3, 6-2 in an ominous display just over a week before she launches her Australian Open defence. Sabalenka, runner-up in Brisbane in 2024, has won the last two Australian Opens and the way she absorbed the pressure from Andreeva in the first set, then turned the screws in the second, showed why she is considered a strong chance to make it three in a row this year. "I definitely think that I have improved a lot mentally, physically and skills as well," the Belarusian said. "I think every year I'm getting a little bit better." Sabalenka now plays Russian qualifier Polina Kudermetova, who continued her fairytale week when she beat Ukraine's Anhelina Kalinina 6-4, 6-3. In the men's draw, Dimitrov retired from his semi-final with a painful hip. Unseeded Czech player Jiri Lehecka was leading 6-4, 4-4 when the Bulgarian left the court with the physiotherapist for a medical timeout. Dimitrov, ranked 10 in the world, returned but played one point before retiring. Lehecka will play giant American Reilly Opelka, who has one of the biggest serves in the game. It will be the 23-year-old Lehecka's fourth final on the ATP Tour and he will be aiming to add the Brisbane title to his Adelaide win last January. ALSO READ | BGT: Rishabh Pant hits second fastest Test fifty for India at SCG – WATCH "I will need to be focused 100 percent all the time," Lehecka said about facing Opelka's huge serve in the final. "I will need to focus on every point, every chance, because the chance can be gone in a very small moment." Opelka, who was ranked 17 in the world before being forced out of the game for almost two years with wrist and hip injuries, managed to outserve rising French star Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard. He broke the Frenchman in the first set then was able to take the tiebreak to win 6-3, 7-6 (7/4). "It's great to be in another final -- I didn't think I'd be playing in one at all," Opelka said. "But once I was out of pain I had confidence that I could make it back." 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.

Brisbane International: Aryna Sabalenka sweeps into final, defending champ Dimitrov retires hurt

Australia head coach Andrew McDonald has taken shots at Team India after their celebrations on the final ball of Day 1. Speaking on Saturday (Jan 4), McDonald stated that celebrations after Usman Khawaja&rsquo;s wicket were intimidating as Indian players surrounded Sam Konstas having earlier been involved in a spat with Jasprit Bumrah. According to McDonald, India could have kept the celebrations low while he had a word with Konstas after the end of the day&rsquo;s play.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">McDonald takes aim at India</h2>
"My conversation with him was around whether he's okay. Clearly, the way India celebrated that was quite intimidating," McDonald said. "It's clearly within the laws of the game, the rules and regulations. There have been no charges laid, but to have an opposition swarm the non-striker like that, we've got a duty of care to our player to make sure he's okay and in a headspace to go out there and perform."
With Khawaja wasting time in the few minutes of Day 1, it was Konstas who got into an argument as Team India tried to rush with the overs. However, the Aussie batter was dismissed on the final ball of the day leading to over-hyped celebrations by India. It was a big talking point on Friday before attention turned to Day 2 where 15 batters were dismissed.
ALSO READ | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-rishabh-pant-hits-second-fastest-test-fifty-for-india-at-scg-watch-8590298" aria-label="BGT: Rishabh Pant hits second fastest Test fifty for India at SCG &ndash; WATCH" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">BGT: Rishabh Pant hits second fastest Test fifty for India at SCG &ndash; WATCH</a>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Rishabh Pant scores a quick-fire fifty</h2>
Bumrah&rsquo;s absence could be felt big time as India struggled with the bat in their second innings of the Sydney Test. The top order yet again failed to perform with Yashasvi Jaiswal scoring (22), KL Rahul (13) and Shubman Gill (13). Virat Kohli also failed to make the most of his last innings in the series and scored six runs while getting out to Boland in a similar fashion.
Rishabh Pant was the stand-out batter with 61 runs off 33 balls before falling to Pat Cummins. India at stumps on Day 2 were 141/6 and are leading by 145 runs as they look to stay in the contest with a big score.

Sports, Cricket: According to Andrew McDonald, India could have been low in celebrations while he had a word with Sam Konstas after the end of the day’s play.

Australia head coach Andrew McDonald has taken shots at Team India after their celebrations on the final ball of Day 1. Speaking on Saturday (Jan 4), McDonald stated that celebrations after Usman Khawaja’s wicket were intimidating as Indian players surrounded Sam Konstas having earlier been involved in a spat with Jasprit Bumrah. According to McDonald, India could have kept the celebrations low while he had a word with Konstas after the end of the day’s play. McDonald takes aim at India "My conversation with him was around whether he's okay. Clearly, the way India celebrated that was quite intimidating," McDonald said. "It's clearly within the laws of the game, the rules and regulations. There have been no charges laid, but to have an opposition swarm the non-striker like that, we've got a duty of care to our player to make sure he's okay and in a headspace to go out there and perform." With Khawaja wasting time in the few minutes of Day 1, it was Konstas who got into an argument as Team India tried to rush with the overs. However, the Aussie batter was dismissed on the final ball of the day leading to over-hyped celebrations by India. It was a big talking point on Friday before attention turned to Day 2 where 15 batters were dismissed. ALSO READ | BGT: Rishabh Pant hits second fastest Test fifty for India at SCG – WATCH Rishabh Pant scores a quick-fire fifty Bumrah’s absence could be felt big time as India struggled with the bat in their second innings of the Sydney Test. The top order yet again failed to perform with Yashasvi Jaiswal scoring (22), KL Rahul (13) and Shubman Gill (13). Virat Kohli also failed to make the most of his last innings in the series and scored six runs while getting out to Boland in a similar fashion. Rishabh Pant was the stand-out batter with 61 runs off 33 balls before falling to Pat Cummins. India at stumps on Day 2 were 141/6 and are leading by 145 runs as they look to stay in the contest with a big score.

BGT 2024/25: Andrew McDonald takes aim at Team India, says 'the way they celebrated was intimidating'

Team India could have a big headache for the remainder of the Sydney Test in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy, with Jasprit Bumrah unlikely to bowl in the final innings of the match. The Indian stand-in skipper is struggling with back spasms and was rushed to a hospital for scans. While the scan results are not yet revealed, it is likely that Bumrah may not bowl in the final innings when India defends a total. <o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Bumrah won&rsquo;t bowl in final innings?<o:p></o:p></h2>
According to a Times of India report, Bumrah may not be able to bowl in the final innings but could be available as a batter. The extent of his back injury is unknown, but if the injury is serious, India will have to do without the talisman. It is anticipated that the team management will take a call on Bumrah&rsquo;s availability on Sunday with India likely to defend a total of around 200. <o:p></o:p>
In case, he is unable to bowl India will have to rely on the pace duo of Prasidh Krishna and Mohammed Siraj. Bumrah has been a key asset for India in the ongoing BGT having scalped 32 wickets so far. With India defending a low score, Bumrah&rsquo;s miss could be a huge factor in the outcome of the contest and the series.<o:p></o:p>
ALSO READ | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-rishabh-pant-hits-second-fastest-test-fifty-for-india-at-scg-watch-8590298" aria-label="BGT: Rishabh Pant hits second fastest Test fifty for India at SCG &ndash; WATCH" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">BGT: Rishabh Pant hits second fastest Test fifty for India at SCG &ndash; WATCH</a>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">India struggle with bat in second innings <o:p></o:p></h2>
Bumrah&rsquo;s absence could be felt big time as India struggled with the bat in their second innings of the Sydney Test. The top order yet again failed to perform with Yashasvi Jaiswal scoring (22), KL Rahul (13) and Shubman Gill (13). Virat Kohli also failed to make the most of his last innings in the series and scored six runs while getting out to Boland in a similar fashion as last matches.
Rishabh Pant was the stand-out batter with 61 runs off 33 balls before falling to Pat Cummins. India at stumps on Day 2 were 141/6 and lead by 145 runs as they look to stay in the contest with a big score.

Sports, Cricket: Bumrah is struggling with back spasms and was rushed to a hospital for scans. While the scan results are not yet revealed, Bumrah is unlikely to bowl. 

Team India could have a big headache for the remainder of the Sydney Test in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy, with Jasprit Bumrah unlikely to bowl in the final innings of the match. The Indian stand-in skipper is struggling with back spasms and was rushed to a hospital for scans. While the scan results are not yet revealed, it is likely that Bumrah may not bowl in the final innings when India defends a total. Bumrah won’t bowl in final innings? According to a Times of India report, Bumrah may not be able to bowl in the final innings but could be available as a batter. The extent of his back injury is unknown, but if the injury is serious, India will have to do without the talisman. It is anticipated that the team management will take a call on Bumrah’s availability on Sunday with India likely to defend a total of around 200. In case, he is unable to bowl India will have to rely on the pace duo of Prasidh Krishna and Mohammed Siraj. Bumrah has been a key asset for India in the ongoing BGT having scalped 32 wickets so far. With India defending a low score, Bumrah’s miss could be a huge factor in the outcome of the contest and the series. ALSO READ | BGT: Rishabh Pant hits second fastest Test fifty for India at SCG – WATCH India struggle with bat in second innings Bumrah’s absence could be felt big time as India struggled with the bat in their second innings of the Sydney Test. The top order yet again failed to perform with Yashasvi Jaiswal scoring (22), KL Rahul (13) and Shubman Gill (13). Virat Kohli also failed to make the most of his last innings in the series and scored six runs while getting out to Boland in a similar fashion as last matches. Rishabh Pant was the stand-out batter with 61 runs off 33 balls before falling to Pat Cummins. India at stumps on Day 2 were 141/6 and lead by 145 runs as they look to stay in the contest with a big score.

BGT 2024-25: Injured Jasprit Bumrah unlikely to bowl in last innings - Report

Luke Littler became darts' youngest world champion at just 17 after thrashing three-time winner Michael van Gerwen in front of an adoring home crowd at London's Alexandra Palace on Friday.<o:p></o:p>
Littler became a national phenomenon in England with his shock run to the final 12 months ago before being defeated by Luke Humphries.<o:p></o:p>
This time there was no stopping "Luke the Nuke" as he stormed past Dutchman Van Gerwen by seven sets to three.<o:p></o:p>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-shai-gilgeous-alexander-powers-oklahoma-city-thunder-to-record-14th-straight-win-8589947" rel="dofollow">NBA: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander powers Thunder to record 14th straight win</a>
"I can't believe it," Littler told Sky Sports. "Everyone dreams of lifting this trophy but you have to get through a tough field."<o:p></o:p>
Littler, who posted a three-dart average of 102.7, stormed into a 4-0 lead.<o:p></o:p>
And he showed no signs of nerves to close out the biggest win of his career and the &pound;500,000 ($622,000) first prize in style.<o:p></o:p>
"At 2-0 up I started getting nervous but I said to myself 'just relax'," he added. "I was throwing for the match but to get it over and done with was special."<o:p></o:p>
Littler's success has inspired a boom for darts over the past 12 months.<o:p></o:p>
His defeat to Humphries 12 months ago was the most-watched sports event, outside football, in broadcaster Sky Sports' 34-year history with 4.8 million viewers.<o:p></o:p>
Littler also came above British prime minister Keir Starmer and King Charles in Google's most searched for people of 2024 in the UK.<o:p></o:p>
"I sometimes say every 17 years a star gets born and he's one of them," said Van Gerwen, who had been the previous youngest winner when he lifted the title in 2014 aged 24. "Every moment he got to hurt me, he did."
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: Littler also came above British prime minister Keir Starmer and King Charles in Google's most searched for people of 2024 in the UK.

Luke Littler became darts' youngest world champion at just 17 after thrashing three-time winner Michael van Gerwen in front of an adoring home crowd at London's Alexandra Palace on Friday. Littler became a national phenomenon in England with his shock run to the final 12 months ago before being defeated by Luke Humphries. This time there was no stopping "Luke the Nuke" as he stormed past Dutchman Van Gerwen by seven sets to three. Also read | NBA: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander powers Thunder to record 14th straight win "I can't believe it," Littler told Sky Sports. "Everyone dreams of lifting this trophy but you have to get through a tough field." Littler, who posted a three-dart average of 102.7, stormed into a 4-0 lead. And he showed no signs of nerves to close out the biggest win of his career and the £500,000 ($622,000) first prize in style. "At 2-0 up I started getting nervous but I said to myself 'just relax'," he added. "I was throwing for the match but to get it over and done with was special." Littler's success has inspired a boom for darts over the past 12 months. His defeat to Humphries 12 months ago was the most-watched sports event, outside football, in broadcaster Sky Sports' 34-year history with 4.8 million viewers. Littler also came above British prime minister Keir Starmer and King Charles in Google's most searched for people of 2024 in the UK. "I sometimes say every 17 years a star gets born and he's one of them," said Van Gerwen, who had been the previous youngest winner when he lifted the title in 2014 aged 24. "Every moment he got to hurt me, he did." 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.

Teenage sensation Luke Littler storms to world darts title at 17

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 33 points to lead the Oklahoma City Thunder to their 14th consecutive NBA victory, a 117-107 home win over the New York Knicks on Friday. The Thunder matched the longest win streak in franchise history from the 1995-96 season, when they were the Seattle SuperSonics, and snapped New York's nine-game win streak, the Knicks' longest since 2013.<o:p></o:p>
It was only the fourth time in the NBA's 79-year history that teams on win streaks of nine or more games faced each other.<o:p></o:p>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jude-bellingham-guides-real-madrid-to-top-of-la-liga-table-after-vinicius-send-off-against-valencia-8589924" rel="dofollow">Bellingham guides Madrid to top of Liga table after Vinicius' send off against Valencia</a>
Canadian star Gilgeous-Alexander hit 12-of-26 from the floor and 7-of-7 from the free throw line while Jalen Williams added 20 points and Aaron Wiggins had 19 off the bench as Thunder reserves outscored the Knicks bench 35-5.<o:p></o:p>
"They made big plays all night," said Gilgeous-Alexander of his bench. "We're a roster of 15 men, 15 professionals, 15 really skilled basketball players. Guys were ready for their moment."<o:p></o:p>
The Knicks closed the second quarter on a 23-10 run for a 66-54 half-time lead, Mikal Bridges scoring 19 of his team-high 24 points in the first half.<o:p></o:p>
But the Thunder pulled within 88-80 entering the fourth quarter and an 8-0 Oklahoma City run capped by an Isaiah Joe three-pointer pulled the hosts ahead 92-91 with 8:15 to play.<o:p></o:p>
The Thunder went on a 10-0 run with Wiggins hitting a three-point play and a three-pointer for a 108-101 lead with 2:22 remaining and held off the Knicks from there.<o:p></o:p>
"Our (half time) message was just stick to our identity. We've gone down at half time the past two or three games. We've been there before. We know it's a long game, a lot of things can change," said Gilgeous-Alexander. "We've just got to play to our identity as much as we can and when we do so, we usually win."<o:p></o:p>
Frenchman Victor Wembanyama was a winner in his 100th NBA game, making two key plays in the last seconds of San Antonio's 113-110 triumph at Denver.<o:p></o:p>
On the eve of his 21st birthday, the 7-foot-3 (2.21m) star assisted on Chris Paul's go-ahead jumper with 54 seconds remaining and stole a Nikola Jokic pass with four seconds to play to set up Devin Vassell's dunk for the final points.<o:p></o:p>
In a battle of superstar big men, 2024 NBA Rookie of the Year Wembanyama had 35 points and 18 rebounds with four assists while three-time NBA Most Valuable Player Jokic had 41 points and 18 rebounds plus nine assists.<o:p></o:p>
Wembanyama had a historic first season, the only campaign where an NBA player had more than 1,500 points, 700 rebounds, 250 assists, 250 blocked shots and 100 three-pointers.<o:p></o:p>
This season, "Wemby" is averaging 25.6 points, 10.0 rebounds, 3.9 assists, 3.9 blocked shots a game as well as 3.3 three-pointers per contest.
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, NBA: The Thunder matched the longest win streak in franchise history from the 1995-96 season, when they were the Seattle SuperSonics, and snapped New York's streak. 

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 33 points to lead the Oklahoma City Thunder to their 14th consecutive NBA victory, a 117-107 home win over the New York Knicks on Friday. The Thunder matched the longest win streak in franchise history from the 1995-96 season, when they were the Seattle SuperSonics, and snapped New York's nine-game win streak, the Knicks' longest since 2013. It was only the fourth time in the NBA's 79-year history that teams on win streaks of nine or more games faced each other. Also read | Bellingham guides Madrid to top of Liga table after Vinicius' send off against Valencia Canadian star Gilgeous-Alexander hit 12-of-26 from the floor and 7-of-7 from the free throw line while Jalen Williams added 20 points and Aaron Wiggins had 19 off the bench as Thunder reserves outscored the Knicks bench 35-5. "They made big plays all night," said Gilgeous-Alexander of his bench. "We're a roster of 15 men, 15 professionals, 15 really skilled basketball players. Guys were ready for their moment." The Knicks closed the second quarter on a 23-10 run for a 66-54 half-time lead, Mikal Bridges scoring 19 of his team-high 24 points in the first half. But the Thunder pulled within 88-80 entering the fourth quarter and an 8-0 Oklahoma City run capped by an Isaiah Joe three-pointer pulled the hosts ahead 92-91 with 8:15 to play. The Thunder went on a 10-0 run with Wiggins hitting a three-point play and a three-pointer for a 108-101 lead with 2:22 remaining and held off the Knicks from there. "Our (half time) message was just stick to our identity. We've gone down at half time the past two or three games. We've been there before. We know it's a long game, a lot of things can change," said Gilgeous-Alexander. "We've just got to play to our identity as much as we can and when we do so, we usually win." Frenchman Victor Wembanyama was a winner in his 100th NBA game, making two key plays in the last seconds of San Antonio's 113-110 triumph at Denver. On the eve of his 21st birthday, the 7-foot-3 (2.21m) star assisted on Chris Paul's go-ahead jumper with 54 seconds remaining and stole a Nikola Jokic pass with four seconds to play to set up Devin Vassell's dunk for the final points. In a battle of superstar big men, 2024 NBA Rookie of the Year Wembanyama had 35 points and 18 rebounds with four assists while three-time NBA Most Valuable Player Jokic had 41 points and 18 rebounds plus nine assists. Wembanyama had a historic first season, the only campaign where an NBA player had more than 1,500 points, 700 rebounds, 250 assists, 250 blocked shots and 100 three-pointers. This season, "Wemby" is averaging 25.6 points, 10.0 rebounds, 3.9 assists, 3.9 blocked shots a game as well as 3.3 three-pointers per contest. 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: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander powers Thunder to record 14th straight win

Jude Bellingham made amends for missing a penalty by snatching 10-man Real Madrid a 2-1 victory at Valencia on Friday to take them top of La Liga after winger Vinicius Junior was sent off. <o:p></o:p>
Huro Duro sent the hosts ahead in the first half of a feisty clash but Luka Modric levelled for Carlo Ancelotti's side before Bellingham pounced in stoppage time.<o:p></o:p>
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Vinicius, who squared off with Valencia supporters who racially abused him at the same stadium in 2022, was dismissed for shoving Los Che goalkeeper Stole Dimitrievski in the back of the neck with little over 10 minutes remaining.<o:p></o:p>
Madrid were trailing at the time but Bellingham set up veteran midfielder Modric to level in the 85th minute and spark a superb comeback.<o:p></o:p>
Bellingham broke in to strike in the 96th minute after a Valencia defensive error, sending Madrid two points clear of Atletico Madrid at the top of the table, having played a game more than Diego Simeone's team.<o:p></o:p>
"(Bellingham had a) great game, he didn't dip after the missed penalty, it gave him extra motivation," said Ancelotti. "He made an extraordinary effort... (scoring) was a reward for him for the game he had."<o:p></o:p>
Ancelotti said he did not think Vinicius' push deserved a red card and was surprised by his team's poor start to the match.<o:p></o:p>
"We didn't think it was a red card... he went off and the team reacted, to the red, the missed penalty.<o:p></o:p>
"It's hard to explain how badly we did in the first half and how good we did in the second, even with 10 men.<o:p></o:p>
"It's three very important points, deserved, but we can't show these two sides (of ourselves)."<o:p></o:p>
Los Blancos' trip to face Valencia was postponed at the end of October after devastating flooding in the region on Spain's east coast.<o:p></o:p>
Sitting 19th, Valencia appointed Carlos Corberan to replace former coach Ruben Baraja during the winter break, pinching the Spaniard from English Championship club West Bromwich Albion.<o:p></o:p>
The hosts made a strong start, shackling Madrid's star-studded attack before making the breakthrough after 27 minutes.<o:p></o:p>
Dimitri Foulquier cut the ball back for Javi Guerra, whose shot was superbly saved by Thibaut Courtois but Duro turned the rebound into the empty net.
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: Madrid were trailing at the time but Bellingham set up veteran midfielder Modric to level in the 85th minute and spark a superb comeback.

Jude Bellingham made amends for missing a penalty by snatching 10-man Real Madrid a 2-1 victory at Valencia on Friday to take them top of La Liga after winger Vinicius Junior was sent off. Huro Duro sent the hosts ahead in the first half of a feisty clash but Luka Modric levelled for Carlo Ancelotti's side before Bellingham pounced in stoppage time. Also read | Mohamed Salah hints at Liverpool exit, says 'my last year at the club' Vinicius, who squared off with Valencia supporters who racially abused him at the same stadium in 2022, was dismissed for shoving Los Che goalkeeper Stole Dimitrievski in the back of the neck with little over 10 minutes remaining. Madrid were trailing at the time but Bellingham set up veteran midfielder Modric to level in the 85th minute and spark a superb comeback. Bellingham broke in to strike in the 96th minute after a Valencia defensive error, sending Madrid two points clear of Atletico Madrid at the top of the table, having played a game more than Diego Simeone's team. "(Bellingham had a) great game, he didn't dip after the missed penalty, it gave him extra motivation," said Ancelotti. "He made an extraordinary effort... (scoring) was a reward for him for the game he had." Ancelotti said he did not think Vinicius' push deserved a red card and was surprised by his team's poor start to the match. "We didn't think it was a red card... he went off and the team reacted, to the red, the missed penalty. "It's hard to explain how badly we did in the first half and how good we did in the second, even with 10 men. "It's three very important points, deserved, but we can't show these two sides (of ourselves)." Los Blancos' trip to face Valencia was postponed at the end of October after devastating flooding in the region on Spain's east coast. Sitting 19th, Valencia appointed Carlos Corberan to replace former coach Ruben Baraja during the winter break, pinching the Spaniard from English Championship club West Bromwich Albion. The hosts made a strong start, shackling Madrid's star-studded attack before making the breakthrough after 27 minutes. Dimitri Foulquier cut the ball back for Javi Guerra, whose shot was superbly saved by Thibaut Courtois but Duro turned the rebound into the empty net. 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.

Bellingham guides Madrid to top of Liga table after Vinicius' send off against Valencia

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