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Novak Djokovic said Sunday he planned to keep playing for "years to come" -- with more tournaments on his schedule in 2025 -- as he looks to take down the new guard led by Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz. 
The 37-year-old had a disappointing campaign last year by his standards, failing to win a Grand Slam and claiming just one title -- Olympic gold in Paris.<o:p></o:p>
He has slipped to number seven in the world and said he wanted to get his ranking back to "where it should be".<o:p></o:p>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-novak-djokovic-calls-for-more-transparency-around-doping-suspensions-8574694" rel="dofollow">Tennis: Djokovic calls for more transparency around doping suspensions</a> 
"I'm looking for a good start to the season, I'm looking for more consistency across all the tournaments," he said as he prepared to play at the Brisbane International this week. "I'm looking to play more tournaments this year than I played last season, so hopefully also my level is going to go up.<o:p></o:p>
"Hopefully, I will win a few more tournaments and my ranking will go up to where it should be."<o:p></o:p>
The 24-time Grand Slam champion is beginning a season for the first time without any of the other so-called "Big Four" on the other side of the net following the retirements this year of Rafael Nadal and Andy Murray. <o:p></o:p>
Roger Federer called it quits in 2022.<o:p></o:p>
As they faded, Sinner and Alcaraz stepped up to become the new Grand Slam kings.<o:p></o:p>
Djokovic, who is targeting an 11th Australian Open title next month and a record 25th Grand Slam crown, said he had no thoughts of retirement despite turning 38 in May.<o:p></o:p>
"The way I'm feeling today, I still think that I can go strong for years to come," he said. "But, how long I'm going to feel motivated to keep going is unpredictable."<o:p></o:p>
"I still love this sport and I still love competing."<o:p></o:p>
The Serb, the top seed, starts his campaign against Australian wildcard Rinky Hijikata in what will be his first official tournament since losing to Sinner in the final of the 2024 Shanghai Masters in October.<o:p></o:p>
Djokovic will also play doubles alongside Nick Kyrgios, who is making a competitive return after playing just one ATP Tour singles match in two years following knee, foot and wrist injuries.<o:p></o:p>
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The 37-year-old had a disappointing campaign last year by his standards, failing to win a Grand Slam and claiming just one title -- Olympic gold in Paris.

Novak Djokovic said Sunday he planned to keep playing for "years to come" -- with more tournaments on his schedule in 2025 -- as he looks to take down the new guard led by Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz. The 37-year-old had a disappointing campaign last year by his standards, failing to win a Grand Slam and claiming just one title -- Olympic gold in Paris. He has slipped to number seven in the world and said he wanted to get his ranking back to "where it should be". Also read | Tennis: Djokovic calls for more transparency around doping suspensions "I'm looking for a good start to the season, I'm looking for more consistency across all the tournaments," he said as he prepared to play at the Brisbane International this week. "I'm looking to play more tournaments this year than I played last season, so hopefully also my level is going to go up. "Hopefully, I will win a few more tournaments and my ranking will go up to where it should be." The 24-time Grand Slam champion is beginning a season for the first time without any of the other so-called "Big Four" on the other side of the net following the retirements this year of Rafael Nadal and Andy Murray. Roger Federer called it quits in 2022. As they faded, Sinner and Alcaraz stepped up to become the new Grand Slam kings. Djokovic, who is targeting an 11th Australian Open title next month and a record 25th Grand Slam crown, said he had no thoughts of retirement despite turning 38 in May. "The way I'm feeling today, I still think that I can go strong for years to come," he said. "But, how long I'm going to feel motivated to keep going is unpredictable." "I still love this sport and I still love competing." The Serb, the top seed, starts his campaign against Australian wildcard Rinky Hijikata in what will be his first official tournament since losing to Sinner in the final of the 2024 Shanghai Masters in October. Djokovic will also play doubles alongside Nick Kyrgios, who is making a competitive return after playing just one ATP Tour singles match in two years following knee, foot and wrist injuries. 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.

Novak Djokovic admits planning to keep playing for ‘years to come’

Justin Herbert threw three touchdowns as the Los Angeles Chargers booked an NFL playoff berth with a 40-7 win at the New England Patriots on Saturday. <o:p></o:p>But the Denver Broncos' hopes of joining the Chargers in the post-season suffered a blow as they lost an overtime thriller to the Cincinnati Bengals 30-24.<o:p></o:p>
The Patriots, who suffered a sixth straight defeat, were booed off the field by the remaining fans at Gillette Stadium as they fell to 3-13 on the season.<o:p></o:p>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-novak-djokovic-calls-for-more-transparency-around-doping-suspensions-8574694" rel="dofollow">Tennis: Djokovic calls for more transparency around doping suspensions</a> 
For the Chargers it was a job well done as the confident Herbert ensured a second playoff spot in three seasons with another accomplished display.<o:p></o:p>
Herbert completed 28 of 38 passes and threw for 281 yards against a Patriots defense that caused few issues against the passing game.<o:p></o:p>
The Chargers took the lead late in the first quarter thanks to a beautiful 23-yard Herbert pass, superbly caught by the diving Derius Davis.<o:p></o:p>
After a Cameron Dicker field goal early in the second, Herbert found rookie receiver Ladd McConkey at the back of the end-zone with a pinpoint pass to make it 17-0.<o:p></o:p>
Patriots rookie quarterback Drake Maye, who was evaluated for a possible concussion after a first-quarter hit, returned in the second and hit DeMario Douglas with a fine 36-yard touchdown pass to give the Patriots some hope.<o:p></o:p>
But the Chargers ran away with the game, with Herbert again connecting with McConkey -- this time with a 40-yard pass down the middle. A two-yard rush from J.K Dobbins in the fourth completed the rout.<o:p></o:p>
Herbert's performance meant he set a record for the most passing yards in the first five years of an NFL career -- passing Peyton Manning's tally of 20,618 yards.<o:p></o:p>
Herbert was quick to give credit for his achievement to his team-mates.<o:p></o:p>
"It says so much about the guys we had catching those passes and a great offensive line giving me the time to get the ball off and (the defense) getting me the ball back," he said. "I couldn't have done it without them," he added.<o:p></o:p>
<h2>Broncos denied<o:p></o:p></h2>
The Broncos headed to Cincinnati knowing a win would secure them the final AFC place in the playoffs, but they now must beat the defending Super Bowl champions, the Kansas City Chiefs, to be sure of extending their season.<o:p></o:p>
The game was 10-10 after a largely attritional first-half but the contest came alive when Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow found Tee Higgins with a 12-yard touchdown pass.<o:p></o:p>
Denver responded with a magnificent 51-yard hurl from their rookie quarterback Bo Nix to Marvin Mims.<o:p></o:p>
After back-to-back turnovers, Burrow's one-yard rushing score made it 24-17 with 1:29 to go.<o:p></o:p>
But Nix delivered again -- throwing high to Mims in the end-zone and despite double coverage, the receiver came down with the ball to tie the game with eight seconds remaining.<o:p></o:p>
Neither side was able to score on its first possession in overtime.<o:p></o:p>
The Bengals created a 33-yard field goal shot, but back-up kicker Cade York struck the upright.<o:p></o:p>
Denver were forced to punt and this time the Bengals found the decisive score -- Higgins brilliantly bringing in a 31-yard pass from Burrow before the pair connected again for the three-yard game-winning touchdown.
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.

For the Chargers it was a job well done as the confident Herbert ensured a second playoff spot in three seasons with another accomplished display.

Justin Herbert threw three touchdowns as the Los Angeles Chargers booked an NFL playoff berth with a 40-7 win at the New England Patriots on Saturday. But the Denver Broncos' hopes of joining the Chargers in the post-season suffered a blow as they lost an overtime thriller to the Cincinnati Bengals 30-24. The Patriots, who suffered a sixth straight defeat, were booed off the field by the remaining fans at Gillette Stadium as they fell to 3-13 on the season. Also read | Tennis: Djokovic calls for more transparency around doping suspensions For the Chargers it was a job well done as the confident Herbert ensured a second playoff spot in three seasons with another accomplished display. Herbert completed 28 of 38 passes and threw for 281 yards against a Patriots defense that caused few issues against the passing game. The Chargers took the lead late in the first quarter thanks to a beautiful 23-yard Herbert pass, superbly caught by the diving Derius Davis. After a Cameron Dicker field goal early in the second, Herbert found rookie receiver Ladd McConkey at the back of the end-zone with a pinpoint pass to make it 17-0. Patriots rookie quarterback Drake Maye, who was evaluated for a possible concussion after a first-quarter hit, returned in the second and hit DeMario Douglas with a fine 36-yard touchdown pass to give the Patriots some hope. But the Chargers ran away with the game, with Herbert again connecting with McConkey -- this time with a 40-yard pass down the middle. A two-yard rush from J.K Dobbins in the fourth completed the rout. Herbert's performance meant he set a record for the most passing yards in the first five years of an NFL career -- passing Peyton Manning's tally of 20,618 yards. Herbert was quick to give credit for his achievement to his team-mates. "It says so much about the guys we had catching those passes and a great offensive line giving me the time to get the ball off and (the defense) getting me the ball back," he said. "I couldn't have done it without them," he added. Broncos denied The Broncos headed to Cincinnati knowing a win would secure them the final AFC place in the playoffs, but they now must beat the defending Super Bowl champions, the Kansas City Chiefs, to be sure of extending their season. The game was 10-10 after a largely attritional first-half but the contest came alive when Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow found Tee Higgins with a 12-yard touchdown pass. Denver responded with a magnificent 51-yard hurl from their rookie quarterback Bo Nix to Marvin Mims. After back-to-back turnovers, Burrow's one-yard rushing score made it 24-17 with 1:29 to go. But Nix delivered again -- throwing high to Mims in the end-zone and despite double coverage, the receiver came down with the ball to tie the game with eight seconds remaining. Neither side was able to score on its first possession in overtime. The Bengals created a 33-yard field goal shot, but back-up kicker Cade York struck the upright. Denver were forced to punt and this time the Bengals found the decisive score -- Higgins brilliantly bringing in a 31-yard pass from Burrow before the pair connected again for the three-yard game-winning touchdown. 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.

NFL: Herbert leads Los Angeles Chargers into playoffs, Broncos denied

Novak Djokovic on Sunday called for more transparency around doping suspensions in tennis, saying high-ranked players appeared to be treated differently to others. The 24-time Grand Slam champion agreed with Australian Nick Kyrgios, who on Saturday said integrity in the sport was "awful".<o:p></o:p>
They were speaking in the wake of doping violations by world number ones Italian Jannik Sinner and Poland's Iga Swiatek during 2024.<o:p></o:p>
The 37-year-old Djokovic, who will play doubles with Kyrgios at the Brisbane International this week, said there needed to be far greater transparency from the sport's governing bodies around doping violations. And he said that it appeared that top players such as Sinner and Swiatek were being treated differently from those further down the rankings.<o:p></o:p>
"I think Nick has some fair points when it comes to transparency and inconsistency with protocols and case-to-case comparables," the Serbian said. "We have some players who have been waiting for over a year for their case to be resolved, so the issue is the inconsistency and the transparency."<o:p></o:p>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-integrity-is-awful-nick-kyrgios-on-punishment-for-jannik-sinners-failed-dope-test-8573583" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;Tennis&rsquo; integrity is awful,&rsquo; Kyrgios on punishment for Sinner&rsquo;s failed dope test</a> 
While Djokovic said he believed Sinner when he said he tested positive to the steroid clostebol due to contamination from his physiotherapist, he asserted that the players had been "kept in the dark" throughout the whole process.<o:p></o:p>
"I've been really frustrated, as have most of the other players, that we've been kept in the dark for five months," Djokovic said. "He (Sinner) received the news (of the positive tests) in April and the announcement was not until August, just before the US Open.<o:p></o:p>
"The ATP has not really talked in depth about why they kept that case away from the public.<o:p></o:p>
"Then we had (Simona) Halep's case and Swiatek's case on the WTA Tour and it's not a good look for our sport."<o:p></o:p>
<h2>'It's awful'<o:p></o:p></h2>
Sinner twice tested positive for clostebol in March.<o:p></o:p>
However, the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) accepted his argument that the steroid entered his system due to contamination and opted not to suspend him.<o:p></o:p>
The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) subsequently appealed the decision at the Court of Arbitration for Sport, with a verdict pending.<o:p></o:p>
Swiatek tested positive for the heart medication trimetazidine (TMZ) in an out-of-competition sample in August when she was ranked number one.<o:p></o:p>
As with Sinner, the ITIA accepted that Swiatek's violation was not intentional and she received only a one-month ban. <o:p></o:p>
In contrast, Halep was handed a four-year ban by the ITIA in 2022 after testing positive for roxadustat.<o:p></o:p>
She argued it was the result of a tainted supplement and successfully appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, which reduced her suspension to nine months and she returned to the court in March.<o:p></o:p>
"I'm just questioning the way the system works," said Djokovic. "Why are certain players not treated the same as other players -- maybe there's some ranking reasons behind it, or maybe others have more financial backing behind them or stronger legal teams."<o:p></o:p>
Kyrgios has been scathing about the ITIA decision involving Sinner.<o:p></o:p>
"Tennis integrity right now, and everyone knows it, but no one wants to speak about it -- it's awful," the Australian said on Saturday, adding that said the sport's image was being tarnished.<o:p></o:p>
"I just think that it's been handled horrifically in our sport," said Kyrgios.<o:p></o:p>
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic agreed with Australian Nick Kyrgios, who on Saturday said integrity in the sport was "awful". 

Novak Djokovic on Sunday called for more transparency around doping suspensions in tennis, saying high-ranked players appeared to be treated differently to others. The 24-time Grand Slam champion agreed with Australian Nick Kyrgios, who on Saturday said integrity in the sport was "awful". They were speaking in the wake of doping violations by world number ones Italian Jannik Sinner and Poland's Iga Swiatek during 2024. The 37-year-old Djokovic, who will play doubles with Kyrgios at the Brisbane International this week, said there needed to be far greater transparency from the sport's governing bodies around doping violations. And he said that it appeared that top players such as Sinner and Swiatek were being treated differently from those further down the rankings. "I think Nick has some fair points when it comes to transparency and inconsistency with protocols and case-to-case comparables," the Serbian said. "We have some players who have been waiting for over a year for their case to be resolved, so the issue is the inconsistency and the transparency." Also read | ‘Tennis’ integrity is awful,’ Kyrgios on punishment for Sinner’s failed dope test While Djokovic said he believed Sinner when he said he tested positive to the steroid clostebol due to contamination from his physiotherapist, he asserted that the players had been "kept in the dark" throughout the whole process. "I've been really frustrated, as have most of the other players, that we've been kept in the dark for five months," Djokovic said. "He (Sinner) received the news (of the positive tests) in April and the announcement was not until August, just before the US Open. "The ATP has not really talked in depth about why they kept that case away from the public. "Then we had (Simona) Halep's case and Swiatek's case on the WTA Tour and it's not a good look for our sport." 'It's awful' Sinner twice tested positive for clostebol in March. However, the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) accepted his argument that the steroid entered his system due to contamination and opted not to suspend him. The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) subsequently appealed the decision at the Court of Arbitration for Sport, with a verdict pending. Swiatek tested positive for the heart medication trimetazidine (TMZ) in an out-of-competition sample in August when she was ranked number one. As with Sinner, the ITIA accepted that Swiatek's violation was not intentional and she received only a one-month ban. In contrast, Halep was handed a four-year ban by the ITIA in 2022 after testing positive for roxadustat. She argued it was the result of a tainted supplement and successfully appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, which reduced her suspension to nine months and she returned to the court in March. "I'm just questioning the way the system works," said Djokovic. "Why are certain players not treated the same as other players -- maybe there's some ranking reasons behind it, or maybe others have more financial backing behind them or stronger legal teams." Kyrgios has been scathing about the ITIA decision involving Sinner. "Tennis integrity right now, and everyone knows it, but no one wants to speak about it -- it's awful," the Australian said on Saturday, adding that said the sport's image was being tarnished. "I just think that it's been handled horrifically in our sport," said Kyrgios. 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.

Tennis: Djokovic calls for more transparency around doping suspensions

The Melbourne Test match between India and Australia is hanging in the balance as both sides push for a place in the World Test Championship (WTC) final in June 2025. With India running out of games and in a do-or-die situation, it is a desperate time for Rohit Sharma&rsquo;s men if they are to dream of a third consecutive final. However, considering the state of the MCG Test, a draw is more likely result as we enter the decisive phase. So here is the scenario of things if the MCG Test match ends in a draw at the MCG.<o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">What is the current WTC standing?<o:p></o:p></h2>
Entering the Boxing Day Test, India sit third in the WTC standings with a win percentage (PCT) of 55.88 while Australia occupy the second spot with 58.89 PCT. On the other hand, South Africa are top of the standings with 63.33 and are likely to seal a top-two berth in the WTC standings if they beat Pakistan in the Centurion Test. Despite sitting below New Zealand in the standings, Sri Lanka are still in with a chance to reach the WTC final as they have two matches in hand.<o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">What happens if Boxing Day Test ends in draw?<o:p></o:p></h2>
In case the Boxing Day Test ends in a draw, both India and Australia will drop points in the WTC standings meaning the former&rsquo;s chances of making the final will hang in balance. India will have a PCT of 54.63 and will sit third while Australia will remain second with a PCT of 57.29. In this case, India&rsquo;s fate of reaching the WTC final will be out of their hands with them needing to win the Sydney Test and other results going their way.
ALSO READ | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-scott-boland-backs-tough-guy-mitchell-starc-for-mcg-cracker-despite-injury-scare-8573327" aria-label="BGT &ndash; Boland backs 'tough guy' Starc for MCG cracker despite injury scare">BGT &ndash; Boland backs 'tough guy' Starc for MCG cracker despite injury scare</a>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">What needs to happen for India if they are to play in the WTC final after the MCG draw?<o:p></o:p></h2>
In case the MCG contest ends in a draw, the Indian team will have no option but to go for a win in the Sydney Test. If India win the Sydney Test, they will be second in the WTC standings and Australia will have to win 2-0 against Sri Lanka when they tour the island nation in January. Even a 1-0 win for Australia against Sri Lanka will see India qualify for the WTC final. <o:p></o:p>
However, if India draw the Sydney Test, then Rohit and Co will need a helping hand from Sri Lanka to reach the summit clash. Sri Lanka should either win the two-match series against Australia 1-0 or the series should end in a draw (0-0 or 1-1). Any other result will see the result will see either Sri Lanka or Australia qualify for the final. <o:p></o:p>
In case India lose the Sydney Test after the MCG draw, they will be eliminated from the race to qualify for the WTC standings. <o:p></o:p>
Note: All assumptions made considering there is no drop of points due to slow overate.<o:p></o:p>

Sports, Cricket: Entering the Boxing Day Test, India sit third in the WTC standings with a win percentage (PCT) of 55.88 while Australia occupy the second spot with 58.89 PCT. 

The Melbourne Test match between India and Australia is hanging in the balance as both sides push for a place in the World Test Championship (WTC) final in June 2025. With India running out of games and in a do-or-die situation, it is a desperate time for Rohit Sharma’s men if they are to dream of a third consecutive final. However, considering the state of the MCG Test, a draw is more likely result as we enter the decisive phase. So here is the scenario of things if the MCG Test match ends in a draw at the MCG. What is the current WTC standing? Entering the Boxing Day Test, India sit third in the WTC standings with a win percentage (PCT) of 55.88 while Australia occupy the second spot with 58.89 PCT. On the other hand, South Africa are top of the standings with 63.33 and are likely to seal a top-two berth in the WTC standings if they beat Pakistan in the Centurion Test. Despite sitting below New Zealand in the standings, Sri Lanka are still in with a chance to reach the WTC final as they have two matches in hand. What happens if Boxing Day Test ends in draw? In case the Boxing Day Test ends in a draw, both India and Australia will drop points in the WTC standings meaning the former’s chances of making the final will hang in balance. India will have a PCT of 54.63 and will sit third while Australia will remain second with a PCT of 57.29. In this case, India’s fate of reaching the WTC final will be out of their hands with them needing to win the Sydney Test and other results going their way. ALSO READ | BGT – Boland backs 'tough guy' Starc for MCG cracker despite injury scare What needs to happen for India if they are to play in the WTC final after the MCG draw? In case the MCG contest ends in a draw, the Indian team will have no option but to go for a win in the Sydney Test. If India win the Sydney Test, they will be second in the WTC standings and Australia will have to win 2-0 against Sri Lanka when they tour the island nation in January. Even a 1-0 win for Australia against Sri Lanka will see India qualify for the WTC final. However, if India draw the Sydney Test, then Rohit and Co will need a helping hand from Sri Lanka to reach the summit clash. Sri Lanka should either win the two-match series against Australia 1-0 or the series should end in a draw (0-0 or 1-1). Any other result will see the result will see either Sri Lanka or Australia qualify for the final. In case India lose the Sydney Test after the MCG draw, they will be eliminated from the race to qualify for the WTC standings. Note: All assumptions made considering there is no drop of points due to slow overate.

BGT: Here's how WTC standings will look like if MCG Test ends in a draw

Rahmat Shah struck an Afghanistan Test record 231 not out while partnering Hashmatullah Shahidi in an unbeaten 361-run stand on the third day of the first Test against Zimbabwe on Saturday.&nbsp;
<h2>Shah headlines for Afghanistan</h2>
Captain Shahidi finished a punishing, wicket-less day for the six-man Zimbabwe attack on 141 for his second Test century. &nbsp;
Starting the day on 95 for two, the tourists were 425 for two by the close of play at Queens Sports Club in southern city Bulawayo. &nbsp;
Zimbabwe, who scored a record 586 after winning the toss and batting, hold a 161-run lead going into the fourth day of the match.
Shah bettered the previous best Afghan individual score of 200 not out by Shahidi against Zimbabwe in Abu Dhabi three years ago.
He has faced 416 balls after coming in when Afghanistan lost opener Sediqullah Atal in the second over, and struck three sixes and 23 fours in his record knock.&nbsp;
His previous highest score was 102 against Bangladesh in 2019 -- the first Test century by an Afghan.
Inexperienced spinner Brian Bennett was the bowler when Shah became a centurion, then a double centurion.
Shah, part of the Afghanistan team that made their Test debut in 2018 against India, struck a single to reach 100, and a four to get to 200.
Shahidi proved a superb partner. He has faced 276 deliveries and hit 16 fours.
The skipper reached his century with a pull shot to fine leg off Newman Nyamhuri, one of two Test debutants in the Zimbabwe attack.
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Zimbabwe, seeking a first Test win since beating Afghanistan three years ago, were guilty of some wayward bowling and sloppy fielding.
Medium pacer Trevor Gwandu was a wicket-taker, but also the joint most expensive Zimbabwe bowler, conceding 86 runs.
Afghanistan won Twenty20 and one-day international series ahead of the Test -- the first of two with the second set to start on January 2.
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, Cricket: Captain Hashmatullah Shahidi finished a punishing, wicket-less day for the six-man Zimbabwe attack on 141 for his second Test century as Afghanistan dominated. 

Rahmat Shah struck an Afghanistan Test record 231 not out while partnering Hashmatullah Shahidi in an unbeaten 361-run stand on the third day of the first Test against Zimbabwe on Saturday. Shah headlines for Afghanistan Captain Shahidi finished a punishing, wicket-less day for the six-man Zimbabwe attack on 141 for his second Test century. Starting the day on 95 for two, the tourists were 425 for two by the close of play at Queens Sports Club in southern city Bulawayo. Zimbabwe, who scored a record 586 after winning the toss and batting, hold a 161-run lead going into the fourth day of the match. Shah bettered the previous best Afghan individual score of 200 not out by Shahidi against Zimbabwe in Abu Dhabi three years ago. He has faced 416 balls after coming in when Afghanistan lost opener Sediqullah Atal in the second over, and struck three sixes and 23 fours in his record knock. His previous highest score was 102 against Bangladesh in 2019 -- the first Test century by an Afghan. Inexperienced spinner Brian Bennett was the bowler when Shah became a centurion, then a double centurion. Shah, part of the Afghanistan team that made their Test debut in 2018 against India, struck a single to reach 100, and a four to get to 200. Shahidi proved a superb partner. He has faced 276 deliveries and hit 16 fours. The skipper reached his century with a pull shot to fine leg off Newman Nyamhuri, one of two Test debutants in the Zimbabwe attack. ALSO READ | BGT – Boland backs 'tough guy' Starc for MCG cracker despite injury scare Zimbabwe, seeking a first Test win since beating Afghanistan three years ago, were guilty of some wayward bowling and sloppy fielding. Medium pacer Trevor Gwandu was a wicket-taker, but also the joint most expensive Zimbabwe bowler, conceding 86 runs. Afghanistan won Twenty20 and one-day international series ahead of the Test -- the first of two with the second set to start on January 2. 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.

ZIM vs AFG: Rahmat Shah inspires Afghan fightback vs Zimbabwe

Chess number one Magnus Carlsen has quit a world championship event in New York after being fined and threatened with exclusion for breaching the dress code by wearing jeans.
<h2>Magnus Carlsen walks out</h2>
Carlsen was asked to change his clothes Friday at the World Rapid and Blitz Chess Championships after falling foul of the governing body's regulations.
The chess federation (FIDE) said Carlsen rejected the opportunity to switch out of his jeans, and he was issued a fine of $200 (192 euros).
In a statement, FIDE said its rules "are designed to ensure professionalism and fairness for all participants". &nbsp;
It cited the case of another competitor who was fined for wearing sports shoes but allowed to continue after changing into appropriate footwear.
Carlsen, 34, is a five-time world chess champion. The Norwegian is also the reigning champion in both the rapid and blitz chess competitions.
"I put on a shirt, jacket and honestly like I didn't even think about jeans, even changed my shoes," Carlsen told the chess channel Take Take Take.&nbsp;
"First of all, I got a fine which is fine, and then I got a warning that I would not be paired if I didn't go change my clothes. They said that I could do it after the third round today.
ALSO READ | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-scott-boland-backs-tough-guy-mitchell-starc-for-mcg-cracker-despite-injury-scare-8573327" aria-label="BGT &ndash; Boland backs 'tough guy' Starc for MCG cracker despite injury scare" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">BGT &ndash; Boland backs 'tough guy' Starc for MCG cracker despite injury scare</a>
"I said 'I'll change tomorrow if that's OK, I didn't even realise it today', but they said, 'Well you have to change now.' At that point it became a bit of a matter of principle for me."
Carlsen said he would not appeal the decision.
"Honestly, I am too old at this point to care too much," he said.
"Nobody wants to back down... I'll probably head off to somewhere where the weather is a bit nicer than here."
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: Magnus Carlsen was asked to change his clothes Friday at the World Rapid and Blitz Chess Championships after falling foul of the governing body's regulations.

Chess number one Magnus Carlsen has quit a world championship event in New York after being fined and threatened with exclusion for breaching the dress code by wearing jeans. Magnus Carlsen walks out Carlsen was asked to change his clothes Friday at the World Rapid and Blitz Chess Championships after falling foul of the governing body's regulations. The chess federation (FIDE) said Carlsen rejected the opportunity to switch out of his jeans, and he was issued a fine of $200 (192 euros). In a statement, FIDE said its rules "are designed to ensure professionalism and fairness for all participants". It cited the case of another competitor who was fined for wearing sports shoes but allowed to continue after changing into appropriate footwear. Carlsen, 34, is a five-time world chess champion. The Norwegian is also the reigning champion in both the rapid and blitz chess competitions. "I put on a shirt, jacket and honestly like I didn't even think about jeans, even changed my shoes," Carlsen told the chess channel Take Take Take. "First of all, I got a fine which is fine, and then I got a warning that I would not be paired if I didn't go change my clothes. They said that I could do it after the third round today. ALSO READ | BGT – Boland backs 'tough guy' Starc for MCG cracker despite injury scare "I said 'I'll change tomorrow if that's OK, I didn't even realise it today', but they said, 'Well you have to change now.' At that point it became a bit of a matter of principle for me." Carlsen said he would not appeal the decision. "Honestly, I am too old at this point to care too much," he said. "Nobody wants to back down... I'll probably head off to somewhere where the weather is a bit nicer than here." 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.

Magnus Carlsen quits chess championship after jeans row

The Centurion Test match hangs in balance after Pakistan bowlers struck late on Day 3 of the contest. Needing 148 runs to win the game South Africa closed Day 3 at 27/3 with both teams having an equal chance of winning the match. As things stand, hosts South Africa need 121 runs more to win while Pakistan need seven wickets to dent the Proteas&rsquo; chances of World Test Championship (WTC) final qualification.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Pakistan bowlers strike late on Day 3 <o:p></o:p></h2>
After a resolute performance with bat from South Africa on Day 2 of the Test match, it was the turn of their bowlers to shine. Marco Jansen was the hero of the hour for Proteas as he ended with figures of 52/6 getting important wickets of Babar Azam (50) and Saud Shakeel (84) as he got the better of the entire middle order. It was also Babar&rsquo;s first Test fifty in more than two years as he ended his drought with the bat. <o:p></o:p>
Starting the day at 88/3, Pakistan were bowled out for 237 in the final session of the day as they set a target of 148 runs to win for South Africa. Kagiso Rabada bagged figures of 68/2 while there were wickets a piece for Corbin Bosch and Dane Paterson.
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<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Pakistan bowlers strike late<o:p></o:p></h2>
Defending a low total of 148, Pakistan bowlers Mohammad Abbas and Khurram Shahzad put on a show with the ball to narrow South Africa to 27/3. Tony de Zorzi (2), Ryan Rickelton (0) and Tristan Stubbs departed quickly before stumps were called on Day 3. The hosts were 19/3, but Aiden Markram (22) and skipper Temba Bavuma avoided further collapse. <o:p></o:p>
With the match hanging in balance, it will be an interesting Day 4 in the Centurion Test as South Africa look to book their place in the WTC final.<o:p></o:p>

Sports, Cricket: Needing 148 runs to win the Centurion Test, South Africa closed Day 3 at 27/3 with Pakistan and the hosts having an equal chance of winning the match. 

The Centurion Test match hangs in balance after Pakistan bowlers struck late on Day 3 of the contest. Needing 148 runs to win the game South Africa closed Day 3 at 27/3 with both teams having an equal chance of winning the match. As things stand, hosts South Africa need 121 runs more to win while Pakistan need seven wickets to dent the Proteas’ chances of World Test Championship (WTC) final qualification. Pakistan bowlers strike late on Day 3 After a resolute performance with bat from South Africa on Day 2 of the Test match, it was the turn of their bowlers to shine. Marco Jansen was the hero of the hour for Proteas as he ended with figures of 52/6 getting important wickets of Babar Azam (50) and Saud Shakeel (84) as he got the better of the entire middle order. It was also Babar’s first Test fifty in more than two years as he ended his drought with the bat. Starting the day at 88/3, Pakistan were bowled out for 237 in the final session of the day as they set a target of 148 runs to win for South Africa. Kagiso Rabada bagged figures of 68/2 while there were wickets a piece for Corbin Bosch and Dane Paterson. ALSO READ | Pep Guardiola to 'keep going' as Manchester City boss despite struggle Pakistan bowlers strike late Defending a low total of 148, Pakistan bowlers Mohammad Abbas and Khurram Shahzad put on a show with the ball to narrow South Africa to 27/3. Tony de Zorzi (2), Ryan Rickelton (0) and Tristan Stubbs departed quickly before stumps were called on Day 3. The hosts were 19/3, but Aiden Markram (22) and skipper Temba Bavuma avoided further collapse. With the match hanging in balance, it will be an interesting Day 4 in the Centurion Test as South Africa look to book their place in the WTC final.

SA vs PAK: Pakistan bowlers strike late on Day 3 of Centurion Test

Australia pacer Scott Boland has backed his side to come good on Day 4 of the ongoing Melbourne Test against India as the match hangs in balance. Playing at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), India&rsquo;s Nitish Kumar Reddy stole the headlines despite some good bowling by Australia as he ended the day with an unbeaten 105 before the stumps were called. According to Boland Australia are in a good position in the match and can consolidate if they can pick India&rsquo;s last wicket. <o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Boland backs strong Australia<o:p></o:p></h2>
"We're leading by 115 (116) runs, so we are in a pretty strong position," Boland said after the day's play. "Obviously it could have been better, but I think that's how Test match cricket ebbs and flows. Hopefully tomorrow morning we get that first wicket and then put on a really nice lead and see how the game plays after that."<o:p></o:p>
India having started at 164/5 lost four wickets on a rain-merged day with Nitish Reddy scoring his maiden Test ton. Australian bowlers on the other hand had India on 191/6 and still trailing by a massive 283 runs. However, a 127-run stand between Washington Sundar and Reddy rescued India before the stumps were called.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>
Sundar was dismissed immediately after he scored his fifty, but justified his selection in the Playing XI, having replaced Shubman Gill. <o:p></o:p>
India ended the day at 358/9 with Reddy and Mohammed Siraj (2) in the middle for the visitors. India still trail Australia by 116 runs in the first innings and will look to narrow the deposit before the second innings begins.
ALSO READ | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pm-narendra-modi-meets-d-gukesh-after-world-chess-championship-triumph-hails-achievement-in-interaction-8573788" aria-label="PM Narendra Modi meets D Gukesh after World Chess Championship triumph">PM Narendra Modi meets D Gukesh after World Chess Championship triumph</a>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">WTC qualification hangs in balance<o:p></o:p></h2>
With India needing to win at least one match of the remaining two Tests in the BGT, their quest for a place in the World Test Championship (WTC) final hangs in balance. With India likely to concede the lead in the first innings, their chances of winning the MCG contest are slim. In case the Test ends in a draw, India will have to win the Sydney Test and hope other results go their way to qualify for the WTC final in June 2025.<o:p></o:p>

Sports, Cricket: Australia pacer Scott Boland has backed his side to come good on Day 4 of the ongoing Melbourne Test against India as the match hangs in balance.

Australia pacer Scott Boland has backed his side to come good on Day 4 of the ongoing Melbourne Test against India as the match hangs in balance. Playing at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), India’s Nitish Kumar Reddy stole the headlines despite some good bowling by Australia as he ended the day with an unbeaten 105 before the stumps were called. According to Boland Australia are in a good position in the match and can consolidate if they can pick India’s last wicket. Boland backs strong Australia "We're leading by 115 (116) runs, so we are in a pretty strong position," Boland said after the day's play. "Obviously it could have been better, but I think that's how Test match cricket ebbs and flows. Hopefully tomorrow morning we get that first wicket and then put on a really nice lead and see how the game plays after that." India having started at 164/5 lost four wickets on a rain-merged day with Nitish Reddy scoring his maiden Test ton. Australian bowlers on the other hand had India on 191/6 and still trailing by a massive 283 runs. However, a 127-run stand between Washington Sundar and Reddy rescued India before the stumps were called. Sundar was dismissed immediately after he scored his fifty, but justified his selection in the Playing XI, having replaced Shubman Gill. India ended the day at 358/9 with Reddy and Mohammed Siraj (2) in the middle for the visitors. India still trail Australia by 116 runs in the first innings and will look to narrow the deposit before the second innings begins. ALSO READ | PM Narendra Modi meets D Gukesh after World Chess Championship triumph WTC qualification hangs in balance With India needing to win at least one match of the remaining two Tests in the BGT, their quest for a place in the World Test Championship (WTC) final hangs in balance. With India likely to concede the lead in the first innings, their chances of winning the MCG contest are slim. In case the Test ends in a draw, India will have to win the Sydney Test and hope other results go their way to qualify for the WTC final in June 2025.

BGT 2024/25: Scott Boland backs Australia to come good on Day 4

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (Dec 28) met World Chess Championship (WCC) winner D Gukesh after a successful triumph in Singapore earlier in the month. Gukesh, at 18 became the youngest WCC winner breaking the 40-year-old record of Garry Kasparov. After his triumph, he along with his parents met PM Modi at his New Delhi residence as the latter hailed his determination and dedication in the meeting.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m589vyzq-8o2tciu7-0cwmbquk">
Had an excellent interaction with chess champion and India&rsquo;s pride, <a href="https://twitter.com/DGukesh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DGukesh</a>! I have been closely interacting with him for a few years now, and what strikes me most about him is his determination and dedication. His confidence is truly inspiring. In fact, I recall seeing a video&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/gkLfUXqHQp">pic.twitter.com/gkLfUXqHQp</a>
&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1872988146016633258?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2024</a></blockquote>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">PM Modi meets D Gukesh at his residence<o:p></o:p></h2>
&ldquo;Had an excellent interaction with chess champion and India&rsquo;s pride, @DGukesh!I have been closely interacting with him for a few years now, and what strikes me most about him is his determination and dedication. His confidence is truly inspiring. In fact, I recall seeing a video of his few years ago where he had said he would become the youngest world champion&mdash; a prediction that has now clearly come true thanks to his own efforts,&rdquo; a statement on PM Modi&rsquo;s X handle read. <o:p></o:p>
Gukesh in a marathon 14-game WCC final, got the better of China&rsquo;s Ding Liren as he beat him 7.5-6.5 to pocket his maiden title. He was seen emotional after the close contest with a video of him going viral. A blunder on the 55th move of game 14 paved the way for Gukesh to win the title despite the match heading for a draw until the 40th move.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>
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<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Gukesh joins Viswanathan Anand<o:p></o:p></h2>
While Gukesh became the youngest champion in WCC history at 18, he also ended India&rsquo;s drought at the prestigious tournament. The teenage grandmaster joined legendary Viswanathan Anand to win the title. Anand won the WCC in 2000 and wrote his name in the history books until Gukesh joined him. <o:p></o:p>
The meeting was also joined by Gukesh&rsquo;s parents - father and ENT surgeon Dr Rajinikanth, and mother and microbiologist Padmavathi with the trio posing with PM Modi at his residence. He had earlier met, South Indian film superstar Rajinikanth.<o:p></o:p>

Sports: D Gukesh in a marathon 14-game World Chess Championship final, got the better of China’s Ding Liren as he beat him 7.5-6.5 to pocket his maiden title. 

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (Dec 28) met World Chess Championship (WCC) winner D Gukesh after a successful triumph in Singapore earlier in the month. Gukesh, at 18 became the youngest WCC winner breaking the 40-year-old record of Garry Kasparov. After his triumph, he along with his parents met PM Modi at his New Delhi residence as the latter hailed his determination and dedication in the meeting. Had an excellent interaction with chess champion and India’s pride, @DGukesh! I have been closely interacting with him for a few years now, and what strikes me most about him is his determination and dedication. His confidence is truly inspiring. In fact, I recall seeing a video… pic.twitter.com/gkLfUXqHQp — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 28, 2024 PM Modi meets D Gukesh at his residence “Had an excellent interaction with chess champion and India’s pride, @DGukesh!I have been closely interacting with him for a few years now, and what strikes me most about him is his determination and dedication. His confidence is truly inspiring. In fact, I recall seeing a video of his few years ago where he had said he would become the youngest world champion— a prediction that has now clearly come true thanks to his own efforts,” a statement on PM Modi’s X handle read. Gukesh in a marathon 14-game WCC final, got the better of China’s Ding Liren as he beat him 7.5-6.5 to pocket his maiden title. He was seen emotional after the close contest with a video of him going viral. A blunder on the 55th move of game 14 paved the way for Gukesh to win the title despite the match heading for a draw until the 40th move. ALSO READ | BGT – Boland backs 'tough guy' Starc for MCG cracker despite injury scare Gukesh joins Viswanathan Anand While Gukesh became the youngest champion in WCC history at 18, he also ended India’s drought at the prestigious tournament. The teenage grandmaster joined legendary Viswanathan Anand to win the title. Anand won the WCC in 2000 and wrote his name in the history books until Gukesh joined him. The meeting was also joined by Gukesh’s parents - father and ENT surgeon Dr Rajinikanth, and mother and microbiologist Padmavathi with the trio posing with PM Modi at his residence. He had earlier met, South Indian film superstar Rajinikanth.

PM Narendra Modi meets D Gukesh after World Chess Championship triumph

Nick Kyrgios lashed out on Saturday at what he believes is the lenient treatment of world tennis number one Italian Jannik Sinner for a failed drug test and said integrity in the sport was "awful". <o:p></o:p>Sinner twice tested positive for the banned steroid clostebol in March.<o:p></o:p>
However, the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) accepted his argument that the steroid entered his system due to contamination from his physiotherapist and opted not to suspend him.<o:p></o:p>
The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) subsequently appealed the decision at the Court of Arbitration for Sport, with a verdict pending.<o:p></o:p>
Kyrgios has been scathing about the ITIA decision in the past and didn't hold back in a press conference ahead of his return to the game at the Brisbane International after an 18-month injury lay-off.<o:p></o:p>
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"Tennis integrity right now, and everyone knows it, but no one wants to speak about it -- it's awful," said the Australian. "It's actually awful and it's not okay. I know that people don't like it when I just speak out about things, be honest about things.<o:p></o:p>
"For a kid that grew up playing tennis, I enjoyed the competition, I enjoyed playing. <o:p></o:p>
"I can get emotional, I can throw a racquet, but that's nothing compared to cheating and taking performance-enhancing drugs."<o:p></o:p>
<h2>'It's disgusting'<o:p></o:p></h2>
Asked whether he was accusing Sinner of cheating, Kyrgios told journalists to look at the facts.<o:p></o:p>
"He did fail two doping tests at separate times, as well," Kyrgios said. "It wasn't one after the other&nbsp; -- they were a different time frame, so I mean, if you think that that's the way that it got in his system, if that's how you think it's happened, then.<o:p></o:p>
"But, I mean, if he didn't do anything wrong, then why did they take his prize money and points away? Obviously they found something wrong with it."<o:p></o:p>
With former women's world number one Iga Swiatek also having been suspended for a doping violation in 2024, Kyrgios said the sport's image was being tarnished.<o:p></o:p>
"I just think that it's been handled horrifically in our sport," he said. <o:p></o:p>
The ITIA accepted that Swiatek's violation was not intentional and she received only a one-month ban. <o:p></o:p>
"Two world number ones both getting done for doping is disgusting for our sport. It's a horrible look," said Kyrgios, who has been out of the sport since suffering knee and wrist injuries at the 2022 US Open.<o:p></o:p>
Kyrgios has had wrist reconstruction and said while it was a success, he was unsure how the wrist would cope with tournament play.<o:p></o:p>
"I'm just not going to take anything for granted," he said. "I'm going to go out there and play. It's literally going to be a day-by-day symptomatic injury moving forward.<o:p></o:p>
"If I play a long match, jam it the right way, who knows how it's going to pull up the next day. That's the type of injury it is."<o:p></o:p>
Kyrgios's comeback begins against rising French star Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard.
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.

Kyrgios has been scathing about the ITIA decision in the past and didn't hold back in a presser ahead of his return at the Brisbane International after an 18-month injury lay-off.

Nick Kyrgios lashed out on Saturday at what he believes is the lenient treatment of world tennis number one Italian Jannik Sinner for a failed drug test and said integrity in the sport was "awful". Sinner twice tested positive for the banned steroid clostebol in March. However, the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) accepted his argument that the steroid entered his system due to contamination from his physiotherapist and opted not to suspend him. The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) subsequently appealed the decision at the Court of Arbitration for Sport, with a verdict pending. Kyrgios has been scathing about the ITIA decision in the past and didn't hold back in a press conference ahead of his return to the game at the Brisbane International after an 18-month injury lay-off. Also read | NBA: Champions Celtics snap two-game losing streak with win over Pacers "Tennis integrity right now, and everyone knows it, but no one wants to speak about it -- it's awful," said the Australian. "It's actually awful and it's not okay. I know that people don't like it when I just speak out about things, be honest about things. "For a kid that grew up playing tennis, I enjoyed the competition, I enjoyed playing. "I can get emotional, I can throw a racquet, but that's nothing compared to cheating and taking performance-enhancing drugs." 'It's disgusting' Asked whether he was accusing Sinner of cheating, Kyrgios told journalists to look at the facts. "He did fail two doping tests at separate times, as well," Kyrgios said. "It wasn't one after the other -- they were a different time frame, so I mean, if you think that that's the way that it got in his system, if that's how you think it's happened, then. "But, I mean, if he didn't do anything wrong, then why did they take his prize money and points away? Obviously they found something wrong with it." With former women's world number one Iga Swiatek also having been suspended for a doping violation in 2024, Kyrgios said the sport's image was being tarnished. "I just think that it's been handled horrifically in our sport," he said. The ITIA accepted that Swiatek's violation was not intentional and she received only a one-month ban. "Two world number ones both getting done for doping is disgusting for our sport. It's a horrible look," said Kyrgios, who has been out of the sport since suffering knee and wrist injuries at the 2022 US Open. Kyrgios has had wrist reconstruction and said while it was a success, he was unsure how the wrist would cope with tournament play. "I'm just not going to take anything for granted," he said. "I'm going to go out there and play. It's literally going to be a day-by-day symptomatic injury moving forward. "If I play a long match, jam it the right way, who knows how it's going to pull up the next day. That's the type of injury it is." Kyrgios's comeback begins against rising French star Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard. 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.

‘Tennis’ integrity is awful,’ Kyrgios on punishment for Sinner’s failed dope test

Former five-time Ballon d&rsquo;Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo feels Real Madrid and Brazil winger Vinicius Jr should have won the prestigious award this year, where he stood second, with Manchester City midfielder Rodri taking home the coveted trophy. Ronaldo argued that it was unfair for Vinicius to miss out on winning the most prized individual award in football.
At the Globe Soccer Awards on Friday (Dec 27), Ronaldo didn&rsquo;t mince his words in saying that the Brazilian forward was the rightful recipient of the 2024 Ballon d&rsquo;Or.
Meanwhile, the whole Real Madrid contingent, alongside Vinicius Jr, boycotted the award ceremony in Paris to protest Vinicius&rsquo; omission from the top spot.
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For most of the lead-up to the award ceremony, Vinicius was leading the race to win his maiden Ballon d&rsquo;Or; however, on the eve of the event, several reports claimed that Manchester City&rsquo;s Rodri pipped Madrid&rsquo;s superstar, a rumour that became a reality soon after.&nbsp;
The Spanish midfielder was instrumental in Manchester City winning the treble the past season, which included them completing a historic four-peat of league titles.
"In my opinion, he [Vinicius] deserved to win the Golden Ball [Ballon d'Or award]. It was unfair, in my opinion. I say here in front of everybody. They give it to Rodri, he deserved it too, but they should have given it to Vinicius because he won the Champions League and scored in the final,&rdquo; Ronaldo said during the award ceremony.
Despite missing out on winning the Ballon d&rsquo;Or, Vinicius was no short of accolades for his performances this past season, as he earlier won FIFA's Best Men's Player, besides receiving the Best Men's Player prize at the Globe Soccer Awards. On the other hand, Barcelona's Aitana Bonmat bagged the Women's Player of the Year award, maintaining her streak of individual honours.
<h2>&lsquo;The problem is the same&rsquo;</h2>
Ronaldo praised the Globe Soccer Awards for recognising him as the Best Middle East Player of 2024. Since joining Al-Nassr (in 2023) following his unfruitful exit from Premier League club Manchester United, Ronaldo has been in top form, notching up 74 goals in 83 appearances for the Pro-Saudi League club.
He, however, also commented on United&rsquo;s slump, saying it&rsquo;s not the coach but more than that.
"If you have the fish inside and he's sick, and you take him out and you fix the problem, and you put him again in an aquarium, you will be sick again,&rdquo; Ronaldo said.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Manchester City midfielder Rodri emerged as the 2024 Ballon d'Or award winner, with Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr remaining second. Ronaldo disagreed with this decision. 

Former five-time Ballon d’Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo feels Real Madrid and Brazil winger Vinicius Jr should have won the prestigious award this year, where he stood second, with Manchester City midfielder Rodri taking home the coveted trophy. Ronaldo argued that it was unfair for Vinicius to miss out on winning the most prized individual award in football. At the Globe Soccer Awards on Friday (Dec 27), Ronaldo didn’t mince his words in saying that the Brazilian forward was the rightful recipient of the 2024 Ballon d’Or. Meanwhile, the whole Real Madrid contingent, alongside Vinicius Jr, boycotted the award ceremony in Paris to protest Vinicius’ omission from the top spot. ALSO READ: Dani Olmo closer to Barcelona exit after registration request rejected For most of the lead-up to the award ceremony, Vinicius was leading the race to win his maiden Ballon d’Or; however, on the eve of the event, several reports claimed that Manchester City’s Rodri pipped Madrid’s superstar, a rumour that became a reality soon after. The Spanish midfielder was instrumental in Manchester City winning the treble the past season, which included them completing a historic four-peat of league titles. "In my opinion, he [Vinicius] deserved to win the Golden Ball [Ballon d'Or award]. It was unfair, in my opinion. I say here in front of everybody. They give it to Rodri, he deserved it too, but they should have given it to Vinicius because he won the Champions League and scored in the final,” Ronaldo said during the award ceremony. Despite missing out on winning the Ballon d’Or, Vinicius was no short of accolades for his performances this past season, as he earlier won FIFA's Best Men's Player, besides receiving the Best Men's Player prize at the Globe Soccer Awards. On the other hand, Barcelona's Aitana Bonmat bagged the Women's Player of the Year award, maintaining her streak of individual honours. ‘The problem is the same’ Ronaldo praised the Globe Soccer Awards for recognising him as the Best Middle East Player of 2024. Since joining Al-Nassr (in 2023) following his unfruitful exit from Premier League club Manchester United, Ronaldo has been in top form, notching up 74 goals in 83 appearances for the Pro-Saudi League club. He, however, also commented on United’s slump, saying it’s not the coach but more than that. "If you have the fish inside and he's sick, and you take him out and you fix the problem, and you put him again in an aquarium, you will be sick again,” Ronaldo said. (With inputs from agencies)

‘It was unfair,’ Ronaldo on Vinicius Jr not winning 2024 Ballon d’Or

Jaylen Brown delivered a 44-point gem as the NBA champion Boston Celtics snapped a two-game losing streak with a 142-105 blowout of the Indiana Pacers on Friday.
<o:p></o:p>Brown set the tone with 15 points in the first quarter, when the Celtics out-scored the Pacers 39-22 to take control. <o:p></o:p>He finished with six of the Celtics' 23 three-pointers and came up with four steals, posting his highest scoring output since he scored 50 in a win over Orlando in January 2022.<o:p></o:p>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-saka-less-arsenal-move-to-second-spot-after-win-over-ipswich-town-8572304" rel="dofollow">PL: Saka-less Arsenal move to second spot after win over Ipswich Town</a>
"He was big-time," Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla said of Brown, who energized the TD Garden crowd with an array of thunderous dunks. "He has the ability to impact a team and an arena with his energy and his physicality.<o:p></o:p>
"When he gets into a certain zone he just gets locked in, and you kind of saw that on both ends of the floor."<o:p></o:p>
Jayson Tatum scored 22 points and pulled down 13 rebounds and Payton Pritchard added 18 points, eight rebounds and 10 assists off the bench for the Celtics, who shrugged off the absence of Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday to post their biggest points total of the season.<o:p></o:p>
The lopsided win over the team they vanquished in last season's Eastern Conference finals saw the Celtics avoid their first three-game skid of the season.<o:p></o:p>
Tyrese Haliburton scored 19 points and Bennedict Mathurin scored 18 for the Pacers, who were without injured Obi Toppin and Andrew Nembhard.<o:p></o:p>
<h2>Edwards seals T'Wolves win<o:p></o:p></h2>
It came down to the wire in Houston, where Minnesota's Anthony Edwards drilled a step-back three-pointer with 23.2 seconds remaining to lift the Timberwolves to a 113-112 victory over the Rockets.<o:p></o:p>
Fred VanVleet had a chance win it for Houston, but missed a three-pointer with 1.8 seconds left.<o:p></o:p>
Julius Randle scored 27 points and Edwards finished with 24 for the Timberwolves, who trailed by 16 points, 106-90, with 4:57 left to play.<o:p></o:p>
"Made it happen!" Edwards said. "Got some stops, we made some big shots -- made a big shot at the end right there."<o:p></o:p>
Alperen Sengun led the Rockets with 38 points and 12 rebounds. Amen Thompson added 20 points as all five Houston starters scored in double figures only to come up short at the end.<o:p></o:p>
The New York Knicks pushed their winning streak to six games with a convincing 108-85 victory over the Magic in Orlando.<o:p></o:p>
Jalen Brunson scored 26 points and handed out nine assists and Josh Hart added 23 points and 13 rebounds for the Knicks, who made just four of their 15 three-point attempts but converted 24 of their 34 free-throw attempts.<o:p></o:p>
The Magic, with top contributors Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner and Moritz Wagner on the injured list, were led by 27 points from Jalen Suggs.<o:p></o:p>
San Antonio star Victor Wembanyama delivered 19 points, seven rebounds and six blocked and the Spurs heated up in the second half to beat the Nets 96-87 in Brooklyn.<o:p></o:p>
The Spurs connected on just 11 of their 40 shot attempts in the first half and were tied 41-41 at halftime.<o:p></o:p>
They broke it open in the third quarter, connecting on 13 of their 18 shots. Wembanyama made four of his five attempts in the period, including three three-pointers, as the Spurs seized a 74-62 lead going into the fourth quarter.
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.

The lopsided win over the team they vanquished in last season's Eastern Conference finals saw the Celtics avoid their first three-game skid of the season.

Jaylen Brown delivered a 44-point gem as the NBA champion Boston Celtics snapped a two-game losing streak with a 142-105 blowout of the Indiana Pacers on Friday. Brown set the tone with 15 points in the first quarter, when the Celtics out-scored the Pacers 39-22 to take control. He finished with six of the Celtics' 23 three-pointers and came up with four steals, posting his highest scoring output since he scored 50 in a win over Orlando in January 2022. Also read | PL: Saka-less Arsenal move to second spot after win over Ipswich Town "He was big-time," Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla said of Brown, who energized the TD Garden crowd with an array of thunderous dunks. "He has the ability to impact a team and an arena with his energy and his physicality. "When he gets into a certain zone he just gets locked in, and you kind of saw that on both ends of the floor." Jayson Tatum scored 22 points and pulled down 13 rebounds and Payton Pritchard added 18 points, eight rebounds and 10 assists off the bench for the Celtics, who shrugged off the absence of Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday to post their biggest points total of the season. The lopsided win over the team they vanquished in last season's Eastern Conference finals saw the Celtics avoid their first three-game skid of the season. Tyrese Haliburton scored 19 points and Bennedict Mathurin scored 18 for the Pacers, who were without injured Obi Toppin and Andrew Nembhard. Edwards seals T'Wolves win It came down to the wire in Houston, where Minnesota's Anthony Edwards drilled a step-back three-pointer with 23.2 seconds remaining to lift the Timberwolves to a 113-112 victory over the Rockets. Fred VanVleet had a chance win it for Houston, but missed a three-pointer with 1.8 seconds left. Julius Randle scored 27 points and Edwards finished with 24 for the Timberwolves, who trailed by 16 points, 106-90, with 4:57 left to play. "Made it happen!" Edwards said. "Got some stops, we made some big shots -- made a big shot at the end right there." Alperen Sengun led the Rockets with 38 points and 12 rebounds. Amen Thompson added 20 points as all five Houston starters scored in double figures only to come up short at the end. The New York Knicks pushed their winning streak to six games with a convincing 108-85 victory over the Magic in Orlando. Jalen Brunson scored 26 points and handed out nine assists and Josh Hart added 23 points and 13 rebounds for the Knicks, who made just four of their 15 three-point attempts but converted 24 of their 34 free-throw attempts. The Magic, with top contributors Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner and Moritz Wagner on the injured list, were led by 27 points from Jalen Suggs. San Antonio star Victor Wembanyama delivered 19 points, seven rebounds and six blocked and the Spurs heated up in the second half to beat the Nets 96-87 in Brooklyn. The Spurs connected on just 11 of their 40 shot attempts in the first half and were tied 41-41 at halftime. They broke it open in the third quarter, connecting on 13 of their 18 shots. Wembanyama made four of his five attempts in the period, including three three-pointers, as the Spurs seized a 74-62 lead going into the fourth quarter. 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: Champions Celtics snap two-game losing streak with win over Pacers

Arsenal began life without Bukayo Saka by beating Ipswich 1-0 to move into second place in the Premier League and cut Liverpool's lead to six points on Friday. Kai Havertz scored the only goal as Arsenal failed to turn their dominance into a more convincing scoreline.<o:p></o:p>
The lack of a clinical goalscorer may ultimately cost Mikel Arteta's men a first league title in more than 20 years, but they took advantage of Chelsea's shock 2-1 defeat against Fulham on Thursday to become Liverpool's closest challenger.<o:p></o:p>
Saka is set to be sidelined for "many weeks" in the words of Gunners' boss Arteta with fears the England international could be out until March due to a hamstring injury suffered in last weekend's 5-1 victory at Crystal Palace.<o:p></o:p>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-was-unfair-cristiano-ronaldo-on-vinicius-jr-missing-out-on-winning-2024-ballon-dor-8572139" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;It was unfair,&rsquo; Ronaldo on Vinicius Jr not winning 2024 Ballon d&rsquo;Or</a>
Arteta's solution was to start with Gabriel Martinelli in Saka's normal role wide right with Gabriel Jesus continuing up front after scoring five times in Arsenal's previous two outings.<o:p></o:p>
The home side were dominant in possession but had few clear-cut chances to show for it until the final quarter.<o:p></o:p>
"Frustration when you win? No. Things to improve? Yes," said Arteta on the slender margin of victory. "Credit to them as they're very well organised, but we restricted them to nothing," he added.<o:p></o:p>
Arsenal were frustrated by Everton in a 0-0 draw in their last league game at the Emirates so there was relief when Havertz broke the deadlock on 23 minutes. <o:p></o:p>The German prodded high into the net from Leandro Trossard's low cross for his 12th goal of the season.<o:p></o:p>
Jesus did find the net once more with a cheeky finish between the legs of Arijanet Muric from an almost impossible angle, but was flagged offside.<o:p></o:p>
Arsenal's prowess from set-pieces has been well-documented and they should have added to their goals from corners this season.<o:p></o:p>
Gabriel Magalhaes headed against the outside of the post from point-blank range when it seemed easier to score.<o:p></o:p>
As Ipswich's ambition grew as the second half wore on, so the chances at the other end began to flow.<o:p></o:p>
Martin Odegaard had given the home crowd a scare by going down holding the left ankle that saw him sidelined by injury for two months earlier in the campaign. The Arsenal captain, though, was quickly back on his feet and weaving his way through the Ipswich defence with a mazy run and powerful strike that Muric tipped over.<o:p></o:p>
From the resulting corner, Declan Rice's powerful shot was blocked by Dara O'Shea.<o:p></o:p>
Havertz then wasted a glorious chance for his second and Muric saved once more from Mikel Merino to ensure a nervy ending.<o:p></o:p>
But Arsenal held out to leapfrog Nottingham Forest and Chelsea into second.<o:p></o:p>
Ipswich remain second from bottom, three points adrift of safety.
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.

Arteta's solution was to start with Martinelli in Saka's normal role wide right with Gabriel Jesus continuing up front after scoring five times in Arsenal's previous two outings.

Arsenal began life without Bukayo Saka by beating Ipswich 1-0 to move into second place in the Premier League and cut Liverpool's lead to six points on Friday. Kai Havertz scored the only goal as Arsenal failed to turn their dominance into a more convincing scoreline. The lack of a clinical goalscorer may ultimately cost Mikel Arteta's men a first league title in more than 20 years, but they took advantage of Chelsea's shock 2-1 defeat against Fulham on Thursday to become Liverpool's closest challenger. Saka is set to be sidelined for "many weeks" in the words of Gunners' boss Arteta with fears the England international could be out until March due to a hamstring injury suffered in last weekend's 5-1 victory at Crystal Palace. Also read | ‘It was unfair,’ Ronaldo on Vinicius Jr not winning 2024 Ballon d’Or Arteta's solution was to start with Gabriel Martinelli in Saka's normal role wide right with Gabriel Jesus continuing up front after scoring five times in Arsenal's previous two outings. The home side were dominant in possession but had few clear-cut chances to show for it until the final quarter. "Frustration when you win? No. Things to improve? Yes," said Arteta on the slender margin of victory. "Credit to them as they're very well organised, but we restricted them to nothing," he added. Arsenal were frustrated by Everton in a 0-0 draw in their last league game at the Emirates so there was relief when Havertz broke the deadlock on 23 minutes. The German prodded high into the net from Leandro Trossard's low cross for his 12th goal of the season. Jesus did find the net once more with a cheeky finish between the legs of Arijanet Muric from an almost impossible angle, but was flagged offside. Arsenal's prowess from set-pieces has been well-documented and they should have added to their goals from corners this season. Gabriel Magalhaes headed against the outside of the post from point-blank range when it seemed easier to score. As Ipswich's ambition grew as the second half wore on, so the chances at the other end began to flow. Martin Odegaard had given the home crowd a scare by going down holding the left ankle that saw him sidelined by injury for two months earlier in the campaign. The Arsenal captain, though, was quickly back on his feet and weaving his way through the Ipswich defence with a mazy run and powerful strike that Muric tipped over. From the resulting corner, Declan Rice's powerful shot was blocked by Dara O'Shea. Havertz then wasted a glorious chance for his second and Muric saved once more from Mikel Merino to ensure a nervy ending. But Arsenal held out to leapfrog Nottingham Forest and Chelsea into second. Ipswich remain second from bottom, three points adrift of safety. 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: Saka-less Arsenal move to second spot after win over Ipswich Town

A Spanish court on Friday said it had rejected Barcelona's request to register Dani Olmo beyond the year's end, potentially pushing the star closer to leaving the Catalan giants for free.
<h2>Dani Olmo out of Barcelona?</h2>
The Spain playmaker signed from Bundesliga club RB Leipzig last summer for a reported 60 million euros, but La Liga rules limiting spending on wages and transfers complicated his registration.
Barcelona, mired in debt, registered Olmo to December 31 with 80 percent of injured defender Andreas Christensen's pay thanks to an exception allowing clubs to replace long-term absentees.
After La Liga refused the club's request to extend his registration to the end of the season, Barcelona took the case to court claiming unfair competition and seeking to register Olmo until June 30, 2025.
A Barcelona commercial court said in a ruling dated Monday that it had rejected the club's requests as none of the criteria had been met.
"The aim of authorising the overspend is so that a long-term injury does not undermine the team's competition, not so that the long-term injury allows the registration of players who exceed the limit with their salary," which Barcelona tried to do, the court ruled.
Olmo cannot be registered for the rest of the season, "once it is understood that the player's contract ends on December 31, 2024 and cannot be extended", the court added.
Spanish media said Olmo's contract, initially set to run until 2030, includes a clause that would release the Euro 2024 champion if he could not be registered.
Barcelona can appeal the ruling and Spanish media reported that the club can resort to alternative means to secure the registration.
These include further legal action, board members providing personal assets to guarantee the registration and selling VIP seat packages for the expanded future Camp Nou to generate extraordinary income, they said.
ALSO READ | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/legendary-india-cricketer-sachin-tendulkar-inducted-as-new-member-of-melbourne-cricket-club-8570948" aria-label="Legendary India cricketer Sachin Tendulkar becomes honorary member of Melbourne Cricket Club">Legendary India cricketer Sachin Tendulkar becomes honorary member of Melbourne Cricket Club</a>
La Liga said it had applied the requirements equally to all teams and welcomed that no exception was made which could otherwise "seriously alter the equality of conditions" of the competition.
Olmo's potential departure would be a huge blow to the Blaugrana, who have let slip their early lead and dropped to third in a tight title race.
Hansi Flick's side sit three points adrift of leaders Atletico Madrid and two behind Real Madrid having played one game more than both rivals.
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: Dani Olmo's transfer from Leipzig to a new club in La Liga in involved a significant fee of million euros, highlighting his value and skill on the field.

A Spanish court on Friday said it had rejected Barcelona's request to register Dani Olmo beyond the year's end, potentially pushing the star closer to leaving the Catalan giants for free. Dani Olmo out of Barcelona? The Spain playmaker signed from Bundesliga club RB Leipzig last summer for a reported 60 million euros, but La Liga rules limiting spending on wages and transfers complicated his registration. Barcelona, mired in debt, registered Olmo to December 31 with 80 percent of injured defender Andreas Christensen's pay thanks to an exception allowing clubs to replace long-term absentees. After La Liga refused the club's request to extend his registration to the end of the season, Barcelona took the case to court claiming unfair competition and seeking to register Olmo until June 30, 2025. A Barcelona commercial court said in a ruling dated Monday that it had rejected the club's requests as none of the criteria had been met. "The aim of authorising the overspend is so that a long-term injury does not undermine the team's competition, not so that the long-term injury allows the registration of players who exceed the limit with their salary," which Barcelona tried to do, the court ruled. Olmo cannot be registered for the rest of the season, "once it is understood that the player's contract ends on December 31, 2024 and cannot be extended", the court added. Spanish media said Olmo's contract, initially set to run until 2030, includes a clause that would release the Euro 2024 champion if he could not be registered. Barcelona can appeal the ruling and Spanish media reported that the club can resort to alternative means to secure the registration. These include further legal action, board members providing personal assets to guarantee the registration and selling VIP seat packages for the expanded future Camp Nou to generate extraordinary income, they said. ALSO READ | Legendary India cricketer Sachin Tendulkar becomes honorary member of Melbourne Cricket Club La Liga said it had applied the requirements equally to all teams and welcomed that no exception was made which could otherwise "seriously alter the equality of conditions" of the competition. Olmo's potential departure would be a huge blow to the Blaugrana, who have let slip their early lead and dropped to third in a tight title race. Hansi Flick's side sit three points adrift of leaders Atletico Madrid and two behind Real Madrid having played one game more than both rivals. 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.

Dani Olmo closer to Barcelona exit after registration request rejected

Iranian football's ethics body has summoned a professional player after he hugged a female fan prior to a match in the domestic league, local media reported.
<h2>Iran football federation summons player</h2>
"The ethics committee of the Football Federation of Iran has summoned Ramin Rezaeian," Tasnim local news agency reported on Friday.
Rezaeian, who plays for the Tehran giants Esteghlal and Iran's national team, embraced the fan before his team's match against Chadormalu in central Yazd province on Thursday.
The football federation has not yet commented on the matter.&nbsp;
Rezaeian, 34, has been capped more than 60 times by Iran. The defender has also played club football in Qatar and Belgium.
According to Islamic law in Iran, which was enacted shortly after the 1979 Islamic Revolution, men and women are banned from making any physical contact unless they are closely related.
Following the revolution, women were generally barred from attending football matches, but in August 2022 they were allowed into a championship match for the first time in more than 40 years.&nbsp;
ALSO READ | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/legendary-india-cricketer-sachin-tendulkar-inducted-as-new-member-of-melbourne-cricket-club-8570948" aria-label="Legendary India cricketer Sachin Tendulkar becomes honorary member of Melbourne Cricket Club">Legendary India cricketer Sachin Tendulkar becomes honorary member of Melbourne Cricket Club</a>
In April, Hossein Hosseini, a goalkeeper for Esteghlal, was suspended after embracing a female supporter during a championship match.&nbsp;
The media said at the time that the football federation had fined the goalkeeper the equivalent of $4,700 and given him a one-match suspension for "bad behaviour towards security agents at the game".
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: In a heartwarming gesture, Ramin Rezaeian, a key player for Esteghlal and Iran's national team, engaged with a fan, showcasing his strong connection.

Iranian football's ethics body has summoned a professional player after he hugged a female fan prior to a match in the domestic league, local media reported. Iran football federation summons player "The ethics committee of the Football Federation of Iran has summoned Ramin Rezaeian," Tasnim local news agency reported on Friday. Rezaeian, who plays for the Tehran giants Esteghlal and Iran's national team, embraced the fan before his team's match against Chadormalu in central Yazd province on Thursday. The football federation has not yet commented on the matter. Rezaeian, 34, has been capped more than 60 times by Iran. The defender has also played club football in Qatar and Belgium. According to Islamic law in Iran, which was enacted shortly after the 1979 Islamic Revolution, men and women are banned from making any physical contact unless they are closely related. Following the revolution, women were generally barred from attending football matches, but in August 2022 they were allowed into a championship match for the first time in more than 40 years. ALSO READ | Legendary India cricketer Sachin Tendulkar becomes honorary member of Melbourne Cricket Club In April, Hossein Hosseini, a goalkeeper for Esteghlal, was suspended after embracing a female supporter during a championship match. The media said at the time that the football federation had fined the goalkeeper the equivalent of $4,700 and given him a one-match suspension for "bad behaviour towards security agents at the game". 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.

Iran football federation summons player after hugging female fan

South Africa are in pole position to win the Boxing Day Test match against Pakistan after a stellar show with both bat and ball at the SuperSport Park in Centurion. With a World Test Championship (WTC) final spot up for grabs, the Proteas have a new hero in their ranks after Corbin Bosch wrote his name in the history books on Friday (Dec 27), breaking a 122-year record. Having already impressed with the ball with a four-for, debutant Bosch scored unbeaten with the bat helping South Africa establish a lead of 90 runs after the first innings.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Bosch breaks 122-year-old record<o:p></o:p></h2>
Having come out to bat at no.8 in his debut innings, Bosch&rsquo;s unbeaten 81-run was the highlight for the African side. His score is the highest for any South African batter coming to bat at no.8 or below in the last 122 years. His impressive innings consisted of 15 fours, scoring at a strike rate of 87, contributing heavily as Proteas established a first-innings lead.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>
Despite being 191/7 at one stage, the hosts managed to score 301 before being bowled out. Aiden Markram was the highest scorer for the side with 89 off 144 while the middle order had an off day after Tony de Zorzi (2), Ryan Rickelton (8) and Tristan Stubbs (9) departed cheaply.
ALSO READ | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bgt-202425-virat-kohli-left-fuming-after-dismissal-confronts-fan-on-the-way-back-to-mcg-pavilion-watch-8570356" aria-label="BGT 2024/25: Virat Kohli left fuming after dismissal, confronts fan on the way back to MCG pavilion - WATCH">BGT 2024/25: Virat Kohli left fuming after dismissal, confronts fan on the way back to MCG pavilion - WATCH</a>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Pakistan on backfoot<o:p></o:p></h2>
At the time of writing, Pakistan were 88/3 as bad light stopped play on Day 2 at SuperSport Park. The visitors still trail by two runs and have Babar Azam (16) and Saud Shakeel (8) batting in the middle. Pakistan lost the wickets of Saim Ayub (27), skipper Shan Masood (28) and Kamran Ghulam (4) before the stumps were called for Day 2.<o:p></o:p>

Sports Cricket: Corbin Bosch scored 81 runs in his debut innings. His score is the highest for any South African batter coming to bat at no.8 or below in the last 122 years. 

South Africa are in pole position to win the Boxing Day Test match against Pakistan after a stellar show with both bat and ball at the SuperSport Park in Centurion. With a World Test Championship (WTC) final spot up for grabs, the Proteas have a new hero in their ranks after Corbin Bosch wrote his name in the history books on Friday (Dec 27), breaking a 122-year record. Having already impressed with the ball with a four-for, debutant Bosch scored unbeaten with the bat helping South Africa establish a lead of 90 runs after the first innings. Bosch breaks 122-year-old record Having come out to bat at no.8 in his debut innings, Bosch’s unbeaten 81-run was the highlight for the African side. His score is the highest for any South African batter coming to bat at no.8 or below in the last 122 years. His impressive innings consisted of 15 fours, scoring at a strike rate of 87, contributing heavily as Proteas established a first-innings lead. Despite being 191/7 at one stage, the hosts managed to score 301 before being bowled out. Aiden Markram was the highest scorer for the side with 89 off 144 while the middle order had an off day after Tony de Zorzi (2), Ryan Rickelton (8) and Tristan Stubbs (9) departed cheaply. ALSO READ | BGT 2024/25: Virat Kohli left fuming after dismissal, confronts fan on the way back to MCG pavilion - WATCH Pakistan on backfoot At the time of writing, Pakistan were 88/3 as bad light stopped play on Day 2 at SuperSport Park. The visitors still trail by two runs and have Babar Azam (16) and Saud Shakeel (8) batting in the middle. Pakistan lost the wickets of Saim Ayub (27), skipper Shan Masood (28) and Kamran Ghulam (4) before the stumps were called for Day 2.

SA vs PAK: Debutant Corbin Bosch breaks THIS 122-year-old record

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has slammed pacer Mohammed Siraj for his below-par performance in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy as the visitors continue to struggle. So far in the series, Siraj has scalped 13 wickets and ended wicketless in the first innings of the ongoing Boxing Day Test match. According to Gavaskar, Siraj should be dropped if he continues with his poor form. <o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Gavaskar slams Siraj<o:p></o:p></h2>
"I think Siraj, perhaps, needs a little bit of a break. In the sense, that I am not saying a break, he needs to be told that he is left out of the team for non-performance. There has to be a situation where you can&rsquo;t beat around the bush. You need to be brutally upfront and say &lsquo;look, your performance has not been up to scratch and therefore you are being dropped&rsquo;. When you start talking about &lsquo;rest&rsquo;, players get the wrong ideas. They feel they don&rsquo;t need to up their game," Sunil Gavaskar told Star Sports.<o:p></o:p>
So far in the series, the Indian pacer has best figures of 98/4 which came in the first innings of the pink-ball contest in Adelaide. In the ongoing Test match, he was easily tackled by the Aussie batters and went wicketless despite bowling&nbsp; 23 over. He gave away 122 runs in the process.<o:p></o:p>
ALSO READ | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bgt-202425-virat-kohli-left-fuming-after-dismissal-confronts-fan-on-the-way-back-to-mcg-pavilion-watch-8570356" aria-label="BGT 2024/25: Virat Kohli left fuming after dismissal, confronts fan on the way back to MCG pavilion - WATCH">BGT 2024/25: Virat Kohli left fuming after dismissal, confronts fan on the way back to MCG pavilion - WATCH</a>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">India face late collapse<o:p></o:p></h2>
After bowling Australia out for 474 in the opening session of Day 2, India did not have the best of starts with skipper Rohit Sharma (3) falling to Pat Cummins in the second over. KL Rahul added 24 runs to his tally before being scalped by Pat Cummins. Virat (36) and Yashasvi Jaiswal (82) added a 102-run stand for the third wicket before the latter was the victim of poor running between the wickets. India closed the day at 164/5 with Rishabh Pant (6) and Ravindra Jadeja (4) in the middle.<o:p></o:p>

Sports Cricket: So far in the series, Mohammed Siraj has scalped 13 wickets and ended wicketless in the first innings of the ongoing Boxing Day Test match. 

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has slammed pacer Mohammed Siraj for his below-par performance in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy as the visitors continue to struggle. So far in the series, Siraj has scalped 13 wickets and ended wicketless in the first innings of the ongoing Boxing Day Test match. According to Gavaskar, Siraj should be dropped if he continues with his poor form. Gavaskar slams Siraj "I think Siraj, perhaps, needs a little bit of a break. In the sense, that I am not saying a break, he needs to be told that he is left out of the team for non-performance. There has to be a situation where you can’t beat around the bush. You need to be brutally upfront and say ‘look, your performance has not been up to scratch and therefore you are being dropped’. When you start talking about ‘rest’, players get the wrong ideas. They feel they don’t need to up their game," Sunil Gavaskar told Star Sports. So far in the series, the Indian pacer has best figures of 98/4 which came in the first innings of the pink-ball contest in Adelaide. In the ongoing Test match, he was easily tackled by the Aussie batters and went wicketless despite bowling 23 over. He gave away 122 runs in the process. ALSO READ | BGT 2024/25: Virat Kohli left fuming after dismissal, confronts fan on the way back to MCG pavilion - WATCH India face late collapse After bowling Australia out for 474 in the opening session of Day 2, India did not have the best of starts with skipper Rohit Sharma (3) falling to Pat Cummins in the second over. KL Rahul added 24 runs to his tally before being scalped by Pat Cummins. Virat (36) and Yashasvi Jaiswal (82) added a 102-run stand for the third wicket before the latter was the victim of poor running between the wickets. India closed the day at 164/5 with Rishabh Pant (6) and Ravindra Jadeja (4) in the middle.

BGT: Indian legend lashes out at underperforming Mohammed Siraj

Legendary India cricketer Sachin Tendulkar was made an honorary member of the Melbourne Cricket Club (MCC) on Friday (Dec 27). Tendulkar, who holds multiple records to his name including most runs and 100 international hundreds is the latest member to be inducted to the prestigious club. The announcement coincides with the Boxing Day Test match between India and Australia with the five-match series currently square at 1-1.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m56p91yp-1y1k64tf-wf8z57su">
An icon honoured. The MCC is pleased to announce that former Indian captain <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sachin_rt</a> has accepted an Honorary Cricket Membership, acknowledging his outstanding contribution to the game. <a href="https://t.co/0JXE46Z8T6">pic.twitter.com/0JXE46Z8T6</a>
&mdash; Melbourne Cricket Club (@MCC_Members) <a href="https://twitter.com/MCC_Members/status/1872561498364817582?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 27, 2024</a></blockquote>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Tendulkar inducted into MCC<o:p></o:p></h2>
&ldquo;An icon honoured. The MCC is pleased to announce that former Indian captain @sachin_rt has accepted an Honorary Cricket Membership, acknowledging his outstanding contribution to the game,&rdquo; the MCC posted on X.<o:p></o:p>
MCC, founded in 1838 is one of the oldest sports clubs in Australia and is responsible for the management and development of the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), one of the game&rsquo;s premier venues. It remains the most honorary sports club Down Under with some of the greats of the game being part of the club. <o:p></o:p>
Interestingly, apart from the 2011-12 Australia tour, Tendulkar scored hundreds on each tour Down Under. At the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Tendulkar has scored 449 runs in five Tests at an average of 44.90 and a strike rate of 58.69 including a hundred and three fifties.<o:p></o:p>
He remains one of the most respected personalities in the cricket fraternity having represented India at international cricket for more than two decades. With more than 33,000 international runs, breaking his record looks a stiff challenge.
ALSO READ | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bgt-202425-virat-kohli-left-fuming-after-dismissal-confronts-fan-on-the-way-back-to-mcg-pavilion-watch-8570356" aria-label="BGT 2024/25: Virat Kohli left fuming after dismissal, confronts fan on the way back to MCG pavilion - WATCH">BGT 2024/25: Virat Kohli left fuming after dismissal, confronts fan on the way back to MCG pavilion - WATCH</a>
While Tendulkar was in the headlines, the Indian team had a mixed day in the Boxing Day Test. After bowling Australia out for 474 in the opening session of Day 2, India did not have the best of starts with skipper Rohit Sharma (3) falling to Pat Cummins in the second over. <o:p></o:p>
KL Rahul added 24 runs to his tally before being scalped by Pat Cummins. Virat (36) and Yashasvi Jaiswal (82) added a 102-run stand for the third wicket before the latter was the victim of poor running between the wickets. India closed the day at 164/5 with Rishabh Pant (6) and Ravindra Jadeja (4) in the middle.<o:p></o:p>

Sports Cricket: Sachin Tendulkar, who holds multiple records including most runs and 100 international tons is the latest member to be inducted to the prestigious club. 

Legendary India cricketer Sachin Tendulkar was made an honorary member of the Melbourne Cricket Club (MCC) on Friday (Dec 27). Tendulkar, who holds multiple records to his name including most runs and 100 international hundreds is the latest member to be inducted to the prestigious club. The announcement coincides with the Boxing Day Test match between India and Australia with the five-match series currently square at 1-1. An icon honoured. The MCC is pleased to announce that former Indian captain @sachin_rt has accepted an Honorary Cricket Membership, acknowledging his outstanding contribution to the game. pic.twitter.com/0JXE46Z8T6 — Melbourne Cricket Club (@MCC_Members) December 27, 2024 Tendulkar inducted into MCC “An icon honoured. The MCC is pleased to announce that former Indian captain @sachin_rt has accepted an Honorary Cricket Membership, acknowledging his outstanding contribution to the game,” the MCC posted on X. MCC, founded in 1838 is one of the oldest sports clubs in Australia and is responsible for the management and development of the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), one of the game’s premier venues. It remains the most honorary sports club Down Under with some of the greats of the game being part of the club. Interestingly, apart from the 2011-12 Australia tour, Tendulkar scored hundreds on each tour Down Under. At the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Tendulkar has scored 449 runs in five Tests at an average of 44.90 and a strike rate of 58.69 including a hundred and three fifties. He remains one of the most respected personalities in the cricket fraternity having represented India at international cricket for more than two decades. With more than 33,000 international runs, breaking his record looks a stiff challenge. ALSO READ | BGT 2024/25: Virat Kohli left fuming after dismissal, confronts fan on the way back to MCG pavilion - WATCH While Tendulkar was in the headlines, the Indian team had a mixed day in the Boxing Day Test. After bowling Australia out for 474 in the opening session of Day 2, India did not have the best of starts with skipper Rohit Sharma (3) falling to Pat Cummins in the second over. KL Rahul added 24 runs to his tally before being scalped by Pat Cummins. Virat (36) and Yashasvi Jaiswal (82) added a 102-run stand for the third wicket before the latter was the victim of poor running between the wickets. India closed the day at 164/5 with Rishabh Pant (6) and Ravindra Jadeja (4) in the middle.

Sachin Tendulkar becomes honorary member of Melbourne Cricket Club

It was yet another dramatic day in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy series between India and Australia on Friday (Dec 27) as Virat Kohli was seen confronting a fan. Playing on Day 2 of the Boxing Day Test match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Virat was seen angry on his way back to the pavilion and confronting one fan. The incident happened when India was facing another batting collapse as it lost three wickets in a matter of four overs - ending day 2 at 164/5&nbsp;
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Virat Kohli almost recreated that incident with a CSK fan at Wankhede 😭😭 <a href="https://t.co/35qDBKxuv3">pic.twitter.com/35qDBKxuv3</a>
&mdash; Pari (@BluntIndianGal) <a href="https://twitter.com/BluntIndianGal/status/1872537246798336197?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 27, 2024</a></blockquote>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Virat Kohli confronts fan<o:p></o:p></h2>
After being dismissed on the first ball of the 43rd over, Virat was miffed with himself while returning to the pavilion. While he was about to enter the staircase of the MCG pavilion, one of the fans took a sly dig at the former India skipper, a reaction that left him angry. Virat was then seen turning back and trying to confront the fan before security personnel came to cool the matter and asked the fan in the stand to be silent. <o:p></o:p>
Virat at the same time, kept his cool and returned to the pavilion and avoided further controversy for his reactions. On Thursday, he was fined 20 percent match fees for brushing his shoulders with Aussie debutant Sam Konstas after the end of the 10th over, the reaction was met with huge criticism by the cricket fraternity. <o:p></o:p>
A few former cricketers voiced their opinion on the Konstas situation, stating Virat was fortunate to avoid a ban for such a situation.
ALSO READ | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/mcg-test-day-2-report-india-hurt-by-late-setbacks-in-response-to-australias-474-border-gavaskar-trophy-boxing-day-test-8569799" aria-label="MCG Test, Day 2 report: India hurt by late setbacks in response to Australia's 474">MCG Test, Day 2 report: India hurt by late setbacks in response to Australia's 474</a>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">India face late collapse<o:p></o:p></h2>
After bowling Australia out for 474 in the opening session of Day 2, India did not have the best of starts with skipper Rohit Sharma falling to Pat Cummins in the second over. KL Rahul added 24 runs to his tally before being scalped by Pat Cummins. Virat (36) and Yashasvi Jaiswal (82) added a 102-run stand for the third wicket before the latter was the victim of poor running between the wickets. India closed the day at 164/5 with Rishabh Pant (6) and Ravindra Jadeja (4) in the middle.<o:p></o:p>

Sports Cricket: After being dismissed in the 43rd over, Virat Kohli was seen angry with himself while returning to the pavilion. He confronted a fan on his way back to pavilion. 

It was yet another dramatic day in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy series between India and Australia on Friday (Dec 27) as Virat Kohli was seen confronting a fan. Playing on Day 2 of the Boxing Day Test match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Virat was seen angry on his way back to the pavilion and confronting one fan. The incident happened when India was facing another batting collapse as it lost three wickets in a matter of four overs - ending day 2 at 164/5 Virat Kohli almost recreated that incident with a CSK fan at Wankhede 😭😭 pic.twitter.com/35qDBKxuv3 — Pari (@BluntIndianGal) December 27, 2024 Virat Kohli confronts fan After being dismissed on the first ball of the 43rd over, Virat was miffed with himself while returning to the pavilion. While he was about to enter the staircase of the MCG pavilion, one of the fans took a sly dig at the former India skipper, a reaction that left him angry. Virat was then seen turning back and trying to confront the fan before security personnel came to cool the matter and asked the fan in the stand to be silent. Virat at the same time, kept his cool and returned to the pavilion and avoided further controversy for his reactions. On Thursday, he was fined 20 percent match fees for brushing his shoulders with Aussie debutant Sam Konstas after the end of the 10th over, the reaction was met with huge criticism by the cricket fraternity. A few former cricketers voiced their opinion on the Konstas situation, stating Virat was fortunate to avoid a ban for such a situation. ALSO READ | MCG Test, Day 2 report: India hurt by late setbacks in response to Australia's 474 India face late collapse After bowling Australia out for 474 in the opening session of Day 2, India did not have the best of starts with skipper Rohit Sharma falling to Pat Cummins in the second over. KL Rahul added 24 runs to his tally before being scalped by Pat Cummins. Virat (36) and Yashasvi Jaiswal (82) added a 102-run stand for the third wicket before the latter was the victim of poor running between the wickets. India closed the day at 164/5 with Rishabh Pant (6) and Ravindra Jadeja (4) in the middle.

BGT: Virat Kohli confronts fan on the way back to MCG pavilion - WATCH

India&rsquo;s Deepti Sharma scripted history on Friday (Dec 27) after she became the first women bowler from the nation to scalp multiple five-for in ODI format. Playing against the West Indies women at the Kotambi Stadium in Vadodara, Deepti rewrote the record books becoming only the second women cricketer after South Africa&rsquo;s Sune Luus to bag multiple five-for in 50-over format. Courtesy of her brilliant bowling display India won the final ODI by five wickets and bagged the series 3-0.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal">Deepti Sharma joins elite club<o:p></o:p></h2>
Having already pocketed the ODI series 2-0, the Indian women's team showed no mercy on the visitors as she was on the money with the ball. The decision to bat first by West Indies women did not go according to plan as Renuka Singh was lethal in her spell having jolted the visitors with two wickets in the first over. Shemaine Campbelle (46) and Chinelle Henry (61) then stitched a partnership for the visitors to get them near 100. <o:p></o:p>
However, once Deepti was in the attack she was at the top of her game and wrapped the West Indies tail and helped India bowl them out for 161 in 38.5 overs. Only three West Indies batters got into double figures as India ran riot with the ball.
ALSO READ | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bgt-202425-virat-kohli-left-fuming-after-dismissal-confronts-fan-on-the-way-back-to-mcg-pavilion-watch-8570356" aria-label="BGT 2024/25: Virat Kohli left fuming after dismissal, confronts fan on the way back to MCG pavilion - WATCH">BGT 2024/25: Virat Kohli left fuming after dismissal, confronts fan on the way back to MCG pavilion - WATCH</a>
Deepti&rsquo;s first five-for came in 2016 against Sri Lanka, when she bagged figures of 20/6.
<h2 class="MsoNormal">India win ODI series<o:p></o:p></h2>
Needing 163 runs to win, the Indian women's team had a poor start with 23/2 and 73/4 at one stage, but Harmanpreet Kaur (32), Jemimah Rodrigues (29) stitched important partnerships to help India get back in the contest. Deepti then played a handy knock of unbeaten 39 runs along with Richa Ghosh (23) to win the contest and pocket the series 3-0.

Sports Cricket: Playing against the West Indies women at the Kotambi Stadium in Vadodara, Deepti Sharma rewrote the record books and scalp multiple five-for in 50-over format. 

India’s Deepti Sharma scripted history on Friday (Dec 27) after she became the first women bowler from the nation to scalp multiple five-for in ODI format. Playing against the West Indies women at the Kotambi Stadium in Vadodara, Deepti rewrote the record books becoming only the second women cricketer after South Africa’s Sune Luus to bag multiple five-for in 50-over format. Courtesy of her brilliant bowling display India won the final ODI by five wickets and bagged the series 3-0. Deepti Sharma joins elite club Having already pocketed the ODI series 2-0, the Indian women's team showed no mercy on the visitors as she was on the money with the ball. The decision to bat first by West Indies women did not go according to plan as Renuka Singh was lethal in her spell having jolted the visitors with two wickets in the first over. Shemaine Campbelle (46) and Chinelle Henry (61) then stitched a partnership for the visitors to get them near 100. However, once Deepti was in the attack she was at the top of her game and wrapped the West Indies tail and helped India bowl them out for 161 in 38.5 overs. Only three West Indies batters got into double figures as India ran riot with the ball. ALSO READ | BGT 2024/25: Virat Kohli left fuming after dismissal, confronts fan on the way back to MCG pavilion - WATCH Deepti’s first five-for came in 2016 against Sri Lanka, when she bagged figures of 20/6. India win ODI series Needing 163 runs to win, the Indian women's team had a poor start with 23/2 and 73/4 at one stage, but Harmanpreet Kaur (32), Jemimah Rodrigues (29) stitched important partnerships to help India get back in the contest. Deepti then played a handy knock of unbeaten 39 runs along with Richa Ghosh (23) to win the contest and pocket the series 3-0.

IND-W vs WI-W: Deepti Sharma scripts history with ball for India

Ruben Amorim admitted he had "no idea" how long it will take for him to revive Manchester United, saying his focus was on "survival" after a defeat by Wolves condemned him to the worst start by any Old Trafford boss in nearly 100 years.
Thursday's 2-0 loss at Molineux -- United's third consecutive defeat -- made Amorim the first United manager to lose five or more of his first 10 matches in charge since Walter Crickmer in January 1932.
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"I have no idea. No idea. Instead of me trying to understand how much time it will take, just day by day," Amorim said when asked how long it will take for his ideas to have an impact.
"Improving, trying to see the videos, using every minute of training and try to win some points because it's really important in this moment...
"In this moment, we just have to survive and win some time to work on the team.
"We already knew it. I start this job and you start with the team, a new idea, without any time to train, with a lot of games, tough games."
Defeat left United closer to the relegation zone than the Champions League places heading into their final match of 2024 at home to in-form Newcastle.
Following last week's League Cup quarter-final loss to Tottenham and the home defeat by Bournemouth, things went from bad to worse for United at Molineux.
United captain Bruno Fernandes was sent off for a second yellow yard soon after half-time, with Wolves' Matheus Cunha scoring directly from a corner.
Cunha then set up substitute Hwang Hee-chan to complete a 2-0 win deep into stoppage time that left United a lowly 14th in the Premier League table.
"The idea needs time," said Amorim. "I said it before to you guys that this will be a tough moment and we are far from the end of this moment and that's it."
Things are very different for Amorim's compatriot Vitor Pereira, with the new Wolves boss continuing his perfect start since succeeding the sacked Gary O'Neil following a commanding 3-0 win at Leicester.
"Fantastic feeling," said Pereira after his first home match in charge.
"Special because of the spirit of the team. Now I think we can see that the players are ready to suffer together."
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.

Thursday's 2-0 loss at Molineux made Amorim the first United manager to lose five or more of his first 10 matches in charge since Walter Crickmer in January 1932.

Ruben Amorim admitted he had "no idea" how long it will take for him to revive Manchester United, saying his focus was on "survival" after a defeat by Wolves condemned him to the worst start by any Old Trafford boss in nearly 100 years. Thursday's 2-0 loss at Molineux -- United's third consecutive defeat -- made Amorim the first United manager to lose five or more of his first 10 matches in charge since Walter Crickmer in January 1932. ALSO READ: World number two Iga Swiatek not expecting WADA appeal over doping scandal "I have no idea. No idea. Instead of me trying to understand how much time it will take, just day by day," Amorim said when asked how long it will take for his ideas to have an impact. "Improving, trying to see the videos, using every minute of training and try to win some points because it's really important in this moment... "In this moment, we just have to survive and win some time to work on the team. "We already knew it. I start this job and you start with the team, a new idea, without any time to train, with a lot of games, tough games." Defeat left United closer to the relegation zone than the Champions League places heading into their final match of 2024 at home to in-form Newcastle. Following last week's League Cup quarter-final loss to Tottenham and the home defeat by Bournemouth, things went from bad to worse for United at Molineux. United captain Bruno Fernandes was sent off for a second yellow yard soon after half-time, with Wolves' Matheus Cunha scoring directly from a corner. Cunha then set up substitute Hwang Hee-chan to complete a 2-0 win deep into stoppage time that left United a lowly 14th in the Premier League table. "The idea needs time," said Amorim. "I said it before to you guys that this will be a tough moment and we are far from the end of this moment and that's it." Things are very different for Amorim's compatriot Vitor Pereira, with the new Wolves boss continuing his perfect start since succeeding the sacked Gary O'Neil following a commanding 3-0 win at Leicester. "Fantastic feeling," said Pereira after his first home match in charge. "Special because of the spirit of the team. Now I think we can see that the players are ready to suffer together." 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.

Manchester United’s Amorim switches to ‘survival’ mode after Wolves bashing

Two-time Grand Slam champion Simona Halep on Friday pulled out of Australian Open qualifying and a warm-up tournament in Auckland citing pain in her knee and shoulder.
The former world number one, who is working to re-establish herself after a doping ban, was handed a wildcard for qualifying at the first major of the year next month at Melbourne Park.
ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-liverpool-sit-seven-points-clear-at-top-with-boxing-day-win-manchester-united-crash-at-wolves-8569096" rel="dofollow">PL: Liverpool beat struggling Leicester; Manchester United crash at Wolves</a>
She was also due to play the lead-up Auckland Classic, but the 33-year-old Romanian said on Instagram her 2025 season was on hold.
"After discussing with my team at length, we agreed it is sensible to delay the start of my season," said Halep, the 2018 Melbourne runner-up.
"I will rest up and intend for my next event to be Cluj where I can't wait to play in front of the amazing Romanian fans."
Halep was suspended for doping in October 2022 and returned to the sport in March after having her ban reduced from four years to nine months.
She has denied knowingly doping.
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.

Halep was suspended for doping in October 2022 and returned to the sport in March after having her ban reduced from four years to nine months.

Two-time Grand Slam champion Simona Halep on Friday pulled out of Australian Open qualifying and a warm-up tournament in Auckland citing pain in her knee and shoulder. The former world number one, who is working to re-establish herself after a doping ban, was handed a wildcard for qualifying at the first major of the year next month at Melbourne Park. ALSO READ: PL: Liverpool beat struggling Leicester; Manchester United crash at Wolves She was also due to play the lead-up Auckland Classic, but the 33-year-old Romanian said on Instagram her 2025 season was on hold. "After discussing with my team at length, we agreed it is sensible to delay the start of my season," said Halep, the 2018 Melbourne runner-up. "I will rest up and intend for my next event to be Cluj where I can't wait to play in front of the amazing Romanian fans." Halep was suspended for doping in October 2022 and returned to the sport in March after having her ban reduced from four years to nine months. She has denied knowingly doping. 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.

Tennis: Injury forces Simona Halep to withdraw from Australian Open 2025

Liverpool powered seven points clear at the top of the Premier League as the title favourites survived a scare in their 3-1 win against Leicester, while Bruno Fernandes was sent off in Manchester United's dismal 2-0 defeat at lowly Wolves.
Erling Haaland missed a penalty as crisis-torn Manchester City failed to end their dismal run with a 1-1 draw against Everton, but it was United's travails and Liverpool's remarkable run that took centre-stage on Thursday.
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Arne Slot's side were shocked by Jordan Ayew's early strike at Anfield, but the leaders recovered their composure to equalise just before the interval through Cody Gakpo.
England midfielder Jones marked his 100th top-flight appearance with the second goal soon after half-time.
Mohamed Salah's 19th goal this term wrapped up Liverpool's 11th win in their last 13 games in all competitions.
"We created enough, but because we went 1-0 down it was a game," Liverpool manager Slot said.
"Then you saw how good we are and Leicester didn't want to come back into the game."
Liverpool's comeback lifted them well clear of second-placed Chelsea, who were defeated 2-1 by Fulham earlier in the day.
United suffered a third successive loss in all competitions to leave new boss Ruben Amorim with five defeats in his first 10 games.
Fernandes was dismissed two minutes into the second half at Molineux for a second bookable offence.
United's 10 men cracked in the 58th minute when Matheus Cunha's corner went straight in as goalkeeper Andre Onana flapped under pressure.
Hwang Hee-chan compounded Amorim's misery when he tapped in with just seconds left.
Losing to fourth-bottom Wolves was another bitter blow for United, who endured a humiliating 3-0 defeat by Bournemouth at Old Trafford last weekend after losing 4-3 in the League Cup at Tottenham.
With his team marooned in 14th place -- just eight points above the relegation zone -- Amorim's woes might not be over, with United facing in-form Newcastle on Monday before travelling to Liverpool in their first game of 2025.
"It's so tough to win games in this league with 11 men. With 10 men, it's more difficult," Amorim said.
Champions Manchester City have just one victory in their last 13 games in all competitions as their Christmas schedule started in disappointing fashion.
Bernardo Silva put City in front early on before Iliman Ndiaye salvaged a point for Everton.
Seven minutes into the second half, Haaland had the chance to end his longest goal drought at the Etihad but Jordan Pickford denied him.
City are languishing in seventh place and sit five points adrift of the top four, with their astonishing decline showing no sign of ending.
"Of course we need results and we didn't get it. The team played really good again in all departments and unfortunately could not win," said City boss Pep Guardiola.
<h2>Chelsea stunned</h2>
At Stamford Bridge, Chelsea were stunned by Fulham's late fightback in a dramatic west London derby.
It was Chelsea's first home defeat against Fulham since 1979.
Cole Palmer put Chelsea ahead after 16 minutes, the England forward drilling home from the edge of the area after weaving through the Fulham defence in dazzling style.
But Fulham levelled with eight minutes left when Harry Wilson nodded in from close range.
There was worse to come for the Blues when Rodrigo Muniz completed the turnaround in the 95th minute.
Nottingham Forest climbed to third place after a 1-0 win against sputtering Tottenham at the City Ground.
Forest's fourth successive win was sweet revenge for boss Nuno Espirito Santo, whose former club Tottenham had Djed Spence sent off in the closing moments for a second booking.
Tottenham are stuck in 11th as the pressure mounts on boss Ange Postecoglou.
Newcastle swatted aside 10-man Aston Villa 3-0, moving up to fifth place after winning three consecutive league games for the first time since 2023.
Jarrod Bowen's 59th-minute goal gave West Ham a 1-0 win at bottom of the table Southampton after the visitors saw Guido Rodriguez's red card overturned by VAR.
It was a frustrating start for new Saints boss Ivan Juric, who has replaced the sacked Russell Martin.
Bournemouth and Crystal Palace shared a goalless draw at the Vitality Stadium.
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.

Football: Manchester United suffered a third successive loss in all competitions to leave new boss Ruben Amorim with five defeats in his first 10 games.

Liverpool powered seven points clear at the top of the Premier League as the title favourites survived a scare in their 3-1 win against Leicester, while Bruno Fernandes was sent off in Manchester United's dismal 2-0 defeat at lowly Wolves. Erling Haaland missed a penalty as crisis-torn Manchester City failed to end their dismal run with a 1-1 draw against Everton, but it was United's travails and Liverpool's remarkable run that took centre-stage on Thursday. ALSO READ: Premier League: Man City pay penalty for Erling Haaland miss in Everton draw Arne Slot's side were shocked by Jordan Ayew's early strike at Anfield, but the leaders recovered their composure to equalise just before the interval through Cody Gakpo. England midfielder Jones marked his 100th top-flight appearance with the second goal soon after half-time. Mohamed Salah's 19th goal this term wrapped up Liverpool's 11th win in their last 13 games in all competitions. "We created enough, but because we went 1-0 down it was a game," Liverpool manager Slot said. "Then you saw how good we are and Leicester didn't want to come back into the game." Liverpool's comeback lifted them well clear of second-placed Chelsea, who were defeated 2-1 by Fulham earlier in the day. United suffered a third successive loss in all competitions to leave new boss Ruben Amorim with five defeats in his first 10 games. Fernandes was dismissed two minutes into the second half at Molineux for a second bookable offence. United's 10 men cracked in the 58th minute when Matheus Cunha's corner went straight in as goalkeeper Andre Onana flapped under pressure. Hwang Hee-chan compounded Amorim's misery when he tapped in with just seconds left. Losing to fourth-bottom Wolves was another bitter blow for United, who endured a humiliating 3-0 defeat by Bournemouth at Old Trafford last weekend after losing 4-3 in the League Cup at Tottenham. With his team marooned in 14th place -- just eight points above the relegation zone -- Amorim's woes might not be over, with United facing in-form Newcastle on Monday before travelling to Liverpool in their first game of 2025. "It's so tough to win games in this league with 11 men. With 10 men, it's more difficult," Amorim said. Champions Manchester City have just one victory in their last 13 games in all competitions as their Christmas schedule started in disappointing fashion. Bernardo Silva put City in front early on before Iliman Ndiaye salvaged a point for Everton. Seven minutes into the second half, Haaland had the chance to end his longest goal drought at the Etihad but Jordan Pickford denied him. City are languishing in seventh place and sit five points adrift of the top four, with their astonishing decline showing no sign of ending. "Of course we need results and we didn't get it. The team played really good again in all departments and unfortunately could not win," said City boss Pep Guardiola. Chelsea stunned At Stamford Bridge, Chelsea were stunned by Fulham's late fightback in a dramatic west London derby. It was Chelsea's first home defeat against Fulham since 1979. Cole Palmer put Chelsea ahead after 16 minutes, the England forward drilling home from the edge of the area after weaving through the Fulham defence in dazzling style. But Fulham levelled with eight minutes left when Harry Wilson nodded in from close range. There was worse to come for the Blues when Rodrigo Muniz completed the turnaround in the 95th minute. Nottingham Forest climbed to third place after a 1-0 win against sputtering Tottenham at the City Ground. Forest's fourth successive win was sweet revenge for boss Nuno Espirito Santo, whose former club Tottenham had Djed Spence sent off in the closing moments for a second booking. Tottenham are stuck in 11th as the pressure mounts on boss Ange Postecoglou. Newcastle swatted aside 10-man Aston Villa 3-0, moving up to fifth place after winning three consecutive league games for the first time since 2023. Jarrod Bowen's 59th-minute goal gave West Ham a 1-0 win at bottom of the table Southampton after the visitors saw Guido Rodriguez's red card overturned by VAR. It was a frustrating start for new Saints boss Ivan Juric, who has replaced the sacked Russell Martin. Bournemouth and Crystal Palace shared a goalless draw at the Vitality Stadium. 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: Liverpool beat struggling Leicester; Manchester United crash at Wolves

Debutant fast bowler Corbin Bosch said South Africa reaped the rewards for "holding our nerve" against aggressive Pakistan batting on the first day of the first Test against South Africa at SuperSport Park on Thursday.
Bosch, the son of a Test fast bowler, took a wicket with his first ball in Test cricket and finished with four for 63 as Pakistan were bowled out for 211.&nbsp;
Dane Paterson, enjoying a late-career surge at the age of 35, took five for 61 &ndash; his second five-wicket haul in successive Tests.
Pakistan opening bowler Khurram Shahzad struck twice and Mohammad Abbas claimed a late wicket as South Africa reached 82 for three at close.
Pakistan's approach made for frenetic cricket after Bosch broke a cautious opening stand of 36 when he had Pakistan captain Shan Masood caught at first slip for 17.
Opening partner Saim Ayub (14) and Babar Azam (4) followed in quick succession, but Pakistan opted for attack rather than a defensive rebuild.
Pakistan coach Aaqib Javed said in a pre-match television interview that he didn't expect a significant difference in approach from his players after they beat South Africa 3-0 in a one-day series, which ended on Sunday.
ALSO READ | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bbl-2024-25-live-streaming-when-where-to-watch-adelaide-strikers-vs-hobart-hurricanes-live-on-laptop-tv-8568242" aria-label="BBL 2024-25, Live Streaming: When &amp; where to watch Adelaide Strikers vs Hobart Hurricanes live on laptop, TV">BBL 2024-25, Live Streaming: When &amp; where to watch Adelaide Strikers vs Hobart Hurricanes live on laptop, TV</a>
<h2>Not backing down</h2>
Javed reasoned that positive stroke play was required to score runs on a seam-friendly pitch.&nbsp;
It seemed the majority of Pakistan's batsmen were still in aggressive one-day mode. Both Paterson and Bosch benefitted from batsmen playing poor strokes.
"When we saw them really coming at us we just said, be patient," said Bosch. "There was enough in the wicket that if you held your area there was always a ball that was going to get them out."
"It was (about) holding our nerve and not backing down," added Bosch.
Saud Shakeel&nbsp;hit three boundaries off his first five balls after the loss of Azam&nbsp;before gloving a catch to wicketkeeper Kyle Verreynne to be out for 14 off six balls.
Kamran Ghulam was undeterred, racing to a 52-ball half-century and sharing a rapid 81-run fifth-wicket stand with Mohammad Rizwan (27).&nbsp;
Ghulam went for his shots, sometimes to the frustration of the South African bowlers, and his feisty effort included an exchange of words with Kagiso Rabada &ndash; South Africa's most impressive bowler despite not taking a wicket &ndash; and Verreynne.
Ghulam was out for 54 in bizarre fashion, charging down the pitch to Paterson and top-edging a slog to long leg.
But former Pakistan batsman Ramiz Raja, commenting on the match for SuperSport television, defended Ghulam and the rest of the batsmen.
"I like the way Pakistan took up the challenge because these are alien conditions for Pakistan," said Raja.
"Ghulam had energy, attitude and a game plan. Forget about the last shot, until then he knew what to do on this surface. He showed good strong body language and he was not afraid to eyeball the South Africans."
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.

Corbin Bosch, the son of a Test fast bowler, took a wicket with his first ball in Test cricket and finished with four for 63 as Pakistan were bowled out for 211. 

Debutant fast bowler Corbin Bosch said South Africa reaped the rewards for "holding our nerve" against aggressive Pakistan batting on the first day of the first Test against South Africa at SuperSport Park on Thursday. Bosch, the son of a Test fast bowler, took a wicket with his first ball in Test cricket and finished with four for 63 as Pakistan were bowled out for 211. Dane Paterson, enjoying a late-career surge at the age of 35, took five for 61 – his second five-wicket haul in successive Tests. Pakistan opening bowler Khurram Shahzad struck twice and Mohammad Abbas claimed a late wicket as South Africa reached 82 for three at close. Pakistan's approach made for frenetic cricket after Bosch broke a cautious opening stand of 36 when he had Pakistan captain Shan Masood caught at first slip for 17. Opening partner Saim Ayub (14) and Babar Azam (4) followed in quick succession, but Pakistan opted for attack rather than a defensive rebuild. Pakistan coach Aaqib Javed said in a pre-match television interview that he didn't expect a significant difference in approach from his players after they beat South Africa 3-0 in a one-day series, which ended on Sunday. ALSO READ | BBL 2024-25, Live Streaming: When & where to watch Adelaide Strikers vs Hobart Hurricanes live on laptop, TV Not backing down Javed reasoned that positive stroke play was required to score runs on a seam-friendly pitch. It seemed the majority of Pakistan's batsmen were still in aggressive one-day mode. Both Paterson and Bosch benefitted from batsmen playing poor strokes. "When we saw them really coming at us we just said, be patient," said Bosch. "There was enough in the wicket that if you held your area there was always a ball that was going to get them out." "It was (about) holding our nerve and not backing down," added Bosch. Saud Shakeel hit three boundaries off his first five balls after the loss of Azam before gloving a catch to wicketkeeper Kyle Verreynne to be out for 14 off six balls. Kamran Ghulam was undeterred, racing to a 52-ball half-century and sharing a rapid 81-run fifth-wicket stand with Mohammad Rizwan (27). Ghulam went for his shots, sometimes to the frustration of the South African bowlers, and his feisty effort included an exchange of words with Kagiso Rabada – South Africa's most impressive bowler despite not taking a wicket – and Verreynne. Ghulam was out for 54 in bizarre fashion, charging down the pitch to Paterson and top-edging a slog to long leg. But former Pakistan batsman Ramiz Raja, commenting on the match for SuperSport television, defended Ghulam and the rest of the batsmen. "I like the way Pakistan took up the challenge because these are alien conditions for Pakistan," said Raja. "Ghulam had energy, attitude and a game plan. Forget about the last shot, until then he knew what to do on this surface. He showed good strong body language and he was not afraid to eyeball the South Africans." 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.

SA vs PAK: Dane Paterson, Corbin Bosch give South Africa edge over Pakistan in first Test

Former India coach Ravi Shastri is in awe of Australian debutant Sam Konstas after he scored 60 runs against the visitors in the Boxing Day Test match on Thursday (Dec 12). Konstas was in full swing as he scored a 52-ball fifty with unorthodox shots against the Indian pace attack of Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep. The Aussies closed the day at 311/6 with four batters scoring fifty or more for the hosts.<o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Shastri in awe of Sam Konstas<o:p></o:p></h2>
&ldquo;For him to go out there with that swag and attempt some outrageous shots&mdash;it was something else. He tore that MCC coaching manual to shreds,&rdquo; Shastri said while speaking to the broadcasters. <o:p></o:p>
According to the former India coach, Konstas used all the possible shots against outside the MCC manual, making him a distinguished batter on Day 1. He came into the side after Nathan McSweeney was dropped in favour of the New South Wales batter. At 19, he has a big future ahead of him, as he is in line to replace the long-term veteran batter David Warner, who retired after the Pakistan series earlier in 2024.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Konstas shines on Day 1<o:p></o:p></h2>
Playing on Day 1 of the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Konstas made headlines with a 52-ball fifty. He was in good form for the hosts, having become the youngest opener for Australia in Test history. On debut, he scored 60 runs before being dismissed. The Aussie top-order was seen in top form, with out-of-form Usman Khawaja (57) and Marnus Labuschagne (72) scoring respective fifties. <o:p></o:p>
Steve Smith (68) is unbeaten for the hosts alongside skipper Pat Cummins (6) as they closed the day at 311/6 in 86 overs.<o:p></o:p>

Playing on Day 1 of the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Konstas made headlines with a 52-ball fifty. He was in good form for the hosts having become the youngest opener for Australia in Test history. 

Former India coach Ravi Shastri is in awe of Australian debutant Sam Konstas after he scored 60 runs against the visitors in the Boxing Day Test match on Thursday (Dec 12). Konstas was in full swing as he scored a 52-ball fifty with unorthodox shots against the Indian pace attack of Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep. The Aussies closed the day at 311/6 with four batters scoring fifty or more for the hosts. Shastri in awe of Sam Konstas “For him to go out there with that swag and attempt some outrageous shots—it was something else. He tore that MCC coaching manual to shreds,” Shastri said while speaking to the broadcasters. According to the former India coach, Konstas used all the possible shots against outside the MCC manual, making him a distinguished batter on Day 1. He came into the side after Nathan McSweeney was dropped in favour of the New South Wales batter. At 19, he has a big future ahead of him, as he is in line to replace the long-term veteran batter David Warner, who retired after the Pakistan series earlier in 2024. Konstas shines on Day 1 Playing on Day 1 of the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Konstas made headlines with a 52-ball fifty. He was in good form for the hosts, having become the youngest opener for Australia in Test history. On debut, he scored 60 runs before being dismissed. The Aussie top-order was seen in top form, with out-of-form Usman Khawaja (57) and Marnus Labuschagne (72) scoring respective fifties. Steve Smith (68) is unbeaten for the hosts alongside skipper Pat Cummins (6) as they closed the day at 311/6 in 86 overs.

BGT 2024/25: Ravi Shastri in awe of Aussie debutant Sam Konstas, says 'he tore that MCC coaching manual'

Erling Haaland had a second-half penalty saved as Manchester City's astonishing slump continued with a 1-1 draw against lowly Everton at the Etihad Stadium.
Winners of the last four Premier League titles, the English champions have won just once in their last 13 games in all competitions.
Bernardo Silva put City in front early on before Iliman Ndiaye salvaged a point for the Toffees.
City climb to sixth but could end the day five points adrift of the top four.
A hard-fought point for the visitors edges Everton five clear of the relegation zone in 15th.
City boss Pep Guardiola conceded ahead of the game that his side are at risk of failing to qualify for the Champions League for the first time in 15 years.
The top four automatically qualify for Europe's premier club competition but fifth is likely to be enough this season due to a strong start by English clubs in European competition.&nbsp;
"The one team that has been in the Champions League for the past years has been Manchester City," said Guardiola. "Now we are at risk, of course we are. Definitely."
Not for the first time in City's miserable few months they failed to build on a promising start.
Josko Gvardiol headed a corner off the post inside the opening three minutes.
Everton had kept five clean sheets in their last six games but were breached after just 14 minutes.
Jeremy Doku fed Silva and his effort across goal deflected off Jarrad Branthwaite and looped beyond the helpless Jordan Pickford.
Silva wasted a glorious chance for the vital second goal when he attempted a tough finish with the outside of his left boot that flew past the post when he had just Pickford to beat.
ALSO READ | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/mcg-test-indias-golden-arm-jasprit-bumah-dismisses-travis-head-for-duck-during-boxing-day-tie-watch-8566717" aria-label="India's golden arm Jasprit Bumah dismisses Travis Head for duck in MCG Test - Watch">India's golden arm Jasprit Bumah dismisses Travis Head for duck in MCG Test - Watch</a>
Guardiola held his head in his hands as that opportunity slipped by and had even more reason to lament moments later.
Manuel Akanji sliced an attempted clearance into the path of Ndiaye, who took one touch to control before unleashing a brilliant finish into the top corner for Everton's first away goal in over two months.
Pickford denied Savinho's low effort and Mateo Kovacic fired just wide as City upped the tempo at the start of the second period.
There was another major swing in momentum just seven minutes after the restart.
Savinho was chopped down inside the area by Vitaliy Mykolenko, who was lucky to avoid a second yellow card.
Haaland had the chance to end his longest goal drought at the Etihad but his spot-kick was that of a striker short in confidence as Pickford dived low to his right to make the save.
The giant Norwegian headed in after Gvardiol nodded the rebound across goal but was clearly offside.
Haaland has scored just once in his last seven matches and not found the net in his last four.
Guardiola said this week the 24-year-old's lean spell alone did not explain City's collapse.
But their dependance on Haaland, who has played the full 90 minutes in every Premier League game this season, is at the heart of his side's struggles.
It should have been even worse for Guardiola's men as Everton spurned a huge chance to snatch all three points deep in stoppage time.
Jack Harrison's shot was blocked after the visitors failed to make the most of a four against two counter-attack.
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.

Bernardo Silva put Man City in front early on before Iliman Ndiaye salvaged a point for the Toffees. City climb to sixth but could end the day five points adrift of the top four. 

Erling Haaland had a second-half penalty saved as Manchester City's astonishing slump continued with a 1-1 draw against lowly Everton at the Etihad Stadium. Winners of the last four Premier League titles, the English champions have won just once in their last 13 games in all competitions. Bernardo Silva put City in front early on before Iliman Ndiaye salvaged a point for the Toffees. City climb to sixth but could end the day five points adrift of the top four. A hard-fought point for the visitors edges Everton five clear of the relegation zone in 15th. City boss Pep Guardiola conceded ahead of the game that his side are at risk of failing to qualify for the Champions League for the first time in 15 years. The top four automatically qualify for Europe's premier club competition but fifth is likely to be enough this season due to a strong start by English clubs in European competition. "The one team that has been in the Champions League for the past years has been Manchester City," said Guardiola. "Now we are at risk, of course we are. Definitely." Not for the first time in City's miserable few months they failed to build on a promising start. Josko Gvardiol headed a corner off the post inside the opening three minutes. Everton had kept five clean sheets in their last six games but were breached after just 14 minutes. Jeremy Doku fed Silva and his effort across goal deflected off Jarrad Branthwaite and looped beyond the helpless Jordan Pickford. Silva wasted a glorious chance for the vital second goal when he attempted a tough finish with the outside of his left boot that flew past the post when he had just Pickford to beat. ALSO READ | India's golden arm Jasprit Bumah dismisses Travis Head for duck in MCG Test - Watch Guardiola held his head in his hands as that opportunity slipped by and had even more reason to lament moments later. Manuel Akanji sliced an attempted clearance into the path of Ndiaye, who took one touch to control before unleashing a brilliant finish into the top corner for Everton's first away goal in over two months. Pickford denied Savinho's low effort and Mateo Kovacic fired just wide as City upped the tempo at the start of the second period. There was another major swing in momentum just seven minutes after the restart. Savinho was chopped down inside the area by Vitaliy Mykolenko, who was lucky to avoid a second yellow card. Haaland had the chance to end his longest goal drought at the Etihad but his spot-kick was that of a striker short in confidence as Pickford dived low to his right to make the save. The giant Norwegian headed in after Gvardiol nodded the rebound across goal but was clearly offside. Haaland has scored just once in his last seven matches and not found the net in his last four. Guardiola said this week the 24-year-old's lean spell alone did not explain City's collapse. But their dependance on Haaland, who has played the full 90 minutes in every Premier League game this season, is at the heart of his side's struggles. It should have been even worse for Guardiola's men as Everton spurned a huge chance to snatch all three points deep in stoppage time. Jack Harrison's shot was blocked after the visitors failed to make the most of a four against two counter-attack. 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: Man City pay penalty for Erling Haaland miss in Everton draw

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