South Africa have recalled fast bowler Lungi Ngidi to their one-day international squad for the five-match home series against Sri Lanka, restoring their first-choice fast bowling line-up ahead the World Cup in England.

Ngidi made a successful return to provincial cricket this month after injuring his knee in November and along with Kagiso Rabada and Dale Steyn, is an important element of the side as South Africa seek to win a first World Cup trophy.

"His recent form for the Titans in the (domestic) One-Day Cup has been most impressive and he is clearly match fit for international cricket again," Cricket South Africa selection convener Linda Zondi said in a statement on Sunday.

There is also a first call-up for fast bowler Anrich Nortje, who is also back from injury.

"We want to see what he can offer the Proteas after his highly impressive form in the Mzansi Super League. Outright pace is not something that you can coach, and he looks another exciting addition to our pace arsenal," Zondi added.

South Africa have rested experienced opener Hashim Amla, while all-rounder JP Duminy has still not returned from a shoulder injury sustained in October.

The first ODI against Sri Lanka will be played in Johannesburg on March 3, with the series to conclude in Cape Town on March 16.

South Africa open their World Cup campaign against hosts England at the Oval on May 30.

Squad: Faf du Plessis (captain), Quinton de Kock, Reeza Hendricks, David Miller, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje, Andile Phehlukwayo, Dwaine Pretorius, Kagiso Rabada, Tabraiz Shamsi, Dale Steyn, Imran Tahir, Rassie van der Dussen.

South Africa have recalled fast bowler Lungi Ngidi to their one-day international squad for the five-match home series against Sri Lanka, restoring their first-choice fast bowling line-up ahead the World Cup in England.

South Africa have recalled fast bowler Lungi Ngidi to their one-day international squad for the five-match home series against Sri Lanka, restoring their first-choice fast bowling line-up ahead the World Cup in England. Ngidi made a successful return to provincial cricket this month after injuring his knee in November and along with Kagiso Rabada and Dale Steyn, is an important element of the side as South Africa seek to win a first World Cup trophy. "His recent form for the Titans in the (domestic) One-Day Cup has been most impressive and he is clearly match fit for international cricket again," Cricket South Africa selection convener Linda Zondi said in a statement on Sunday. There is also a first call-up for fast bowler Anrich Nortje, who is also back from injury. "We want to see what he can offer the Proteas after his highly impressive form in the Mzansi Super League. Outright pace is not something that you can coach, and he looks another exciting addition to our pace arsenal," Zondi added. South Africa have rested experienced opener Hashim Amla, while all-rounder JP Duminy has still not returned from a shoulder injury sustained in October. The first ODI against Sri Lanka will be played in Johannesburg on March 3, with the series to conclude in Cape Town on March 16. South Africa open their World Cup campaign against hosts England at the Oval on May 30. Squad: Faf du Plessis (captain), Quinton de Kock, Reeza Hendricks, David Miller, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje, Andile Phehlukwayo, Dwaine Pretorius, Kagiso Rabada, Tabraiz Shamsi, Dale Steyn, Imran Tahir, Rassie van der Dussen.

South Africa recall fit again Lungi Ngidi for Sri Lanka ODI series

VVS Laxman picks his four teams for World Cup 2019 semi finals

Alastair Cook believes England can end decades of World Cup disappointment with a triumph on home soil this year.

England have never won the men's World Cup, but with 100 days to go until the start of the latest edition, a team captained by Eoin Morgan are top of the 50-over world rankings.

Former England skipper Cook, who retired from international cricket last year as the country's highest Test run-scorer and most-capped player, said there were several reasons why Morgan's men could go one better than the England teams that lost in the 1979, 1987 and 1992 finals.

"They’re a very settled side, they’ve got 15 players pretty much nailed on for that squad," Cook told AFP at a World Cup event in London's Trafalgar Square on Tuesday.&nbsp;

"Everyone knows their role, they're very comfortable in their role, they've got a lot of strength in depth, they seem to have a lot of options covered and they're an exciting team to watch.&nbsp;

"They are a brilliant one-day side.”

Cook never played in a World Cup, with the left-handed opening batsman dramatically dropped from the squad that then failed to beat a fellow Test nation while suffering a group-stage exit at the 2015 edition in Australia and New Zealand.

But Cook said a change of attitude lay behind England's rise up the one-day rankings since that dismal display.

"Probably over the years we've really concentrated on Test cricket as a nation. Over the last three or four years we've really given the one-day cricket its due," he said.

'Sky's the limit'

It was a point emphasised by former England spinner Graeme Swann, who said: "I just think England are picking the right team these days.&nbsp;

"They're picking one-day specialists and the sky's the limit.&nbsp;

"When they bat, people like Jason Roy, Jonny Bairstow, they think that (scoring) 400 is feasible rather than an impossible dream. I think England have finally picked a very aggressive team as well, with Eoin Morgan, who's a brilliant captain.

"They've got a team that is putting them in firm contention to win this World Cup," insisted Swann, who added "I never thought we (England) would win it deep down when I was there."

Swann was a member of the only England men's side to have won a major global trophy -- the 2010 World Twenty20 in the Caribbean -- and sees parallels between that team and Morgan's men. &nbsp;

"The only world trophy I thought we had a genuine chance of winning was the World Twenty20 in the West Indies that we did, &nbsp;because we were ahead of the curve there.

"We picked a team of specialists, people like Craig Kieswetter, Michael Lumb -- and I think that's what England have finally started doing in the one-day game as well."

'Never write off India'

But Swann warned that England would face several tough opponents in their quest for World Cup glory.

"You can never write off India, they are an exceptional one-day team, Virat Kohli is a brilliant captain, brilliant player."

As for champions Australia, England's oldest rivals and five-times World Cup-winners, Swann said: "The Aussies are like Germany in the football -- you can never write them off at a World Cup."

Swann though said he was particularly looking forward to watching Pakistan, who won the 2017 Champions Trophy one-day tournament in Britain.

"They are so mercurial, you never know what you are going to get. When they are on fire, they are absolutely explosive and when they're not, they're awful."

Alastair Cook believes England can end decades of World Cup disappointment with a triumph on home soil this year. England have never won the men's World Cup, but with 100 days to go until the start of the latest edition, a team captained by Eoin Morgan are top of the 50-over world rankings.

Alastair Cook believes England can end decades of World Cup disappointment with a triumph on home soil this year. England have never won the men's World Cup, but with 100 days to go until the start of the latest edition, a team captained by Eoin Morgan are top of the 50-over world rankings. Former England skipper Cook, who retired from international cricket last year as the country's highest Test run-scorer and most-capped player, said there were several reasons why Morgan's men could go one better than the England teams that lost in the 1979, 1987 and 1992 finals. "They’re a very settled side, they’ve got 15 players pretty much nailed on for that squad," Cook told AFP at a World Cup event in London's Trafalgar Square on Tuesday. "Everyone knows their role, they're very comfortable in their role, they've got a lot of strength in depth, they seem to have a lot of options covered and they're an exciting team to watch. "They are a brilliant one-day side.” Cook never played in a World Cup, with the left-handed opening batsman dramatically dropped from the squad that then failed to beat a fellow Test nation while suffering a group-stage exit at the 2015 edition in Australia and New Zealand. But Cook said a change of attitude lay behind England's rise up the one-day rankings since that dismal display. "Probably over the years we've really concentrated on Test cricket as a nation. Over the last three or four years we've really given the one-day cricket its due," he said. 'Sky's the limit' It was a point emphasised by former England spinner Graeme Swann, who said: "I just think England are picking the right team these days. "They're picking one-day specialists and the sky's the limit. "When they bat, people like Jason Roy, Jonny Bairstow, they think that (scoring) 400 is feasible rather than an impossible dream. I think England have finally picked a very aggressive team as well, with Eoin Morgan, who's a brilliant captain. "They've got a team that is putting them in firm contention to win this World Cup," insisted Swann, who added "I never thought we (England) would win it deep down when I was there." Swann was a member of the only England men's side to have won a major global trophy -- the 2010 World Twenty20 in the Caribbean -- and sees parallels between that team and Morgan's men. "The only world trophy I thought we had a genuine chance of winning was the World Twenty20 in the West Indies that we did, because we were ahead of the curve there. "We picked a team of specialists, people like Craig Kieswetter, Michael Lumb -- and I think that's what England have finally started doing in the one-day game as well." 'Never write off India' But Swann warned that England would face several tough opponents in their quest for World Cup glory. "You can never write off India, they are an exceptional one-day team, Virat Kohli is a brilliant captain, brilliant player." As for champions Australia, England's oldest rivals and five-times World Cup-winners, Swann said: "The Aussies are like Germany in the football -- you can never write them off at a World Cup." Swann though said he was particularly looking forward to watching Pakistan, who won the 2017 Champions Trophy one-day tournament in Britain. "They are so mercurial, you never know what you are going to get. When they are on fire, they are absolutely explosive and when they're not, they're awful."

Alastair Cook confident England can end World Cup drought

England all-rounder Moeen Ali differs with coach Trevor Bayliss and believes turning up the stump microphones could curb sledging in cricket.

West Indies fast bowler Shannon Gabriel was banned for four one-day internationals on Wednesday after found guilty of 'personal abuse' aimed at England skipper Joe Root in the St Lucia test.

It follows a similar four-match ban on Sarfraz Ahmed after stump microphones caught the Pakistan captain's on-field rant at South Africa all-rounder Andile Phehlukwayo during a one-dayer in Durban last month.

"It's time for people to behave themselves," Moeen said before flying to West Indies for the five-match ODI series beginning at Bridgetown on Wednesday.

"Turn the stump mics up. Why turn them down? So people can swear? There is no reason to get personal.

"... it's the way society is: things come out of people's mouths. You're not going to get away with it now. You have to be careful."

The 31-year-old's view contrasts that of Bayliss who advocates turning down the microphones to protect players.

"I've said it once before, no I'm not in favour of it and I'm not going to change my mind," Bayliss said before Gabriel's ban was announced.

"I think (stump mics) should be down. I know there are people who think the opposite and think it is good for the game but sometimes in the heat of battle things are said, when guys given a bit of time to sit down and think about it would give themselves a bit of a kick up the backside."

Moeen, who in his autobiography claimed being called 'Osama' by an unidentified Australia player during the 2015 Ashes series, said turning up the microphones could also catch harmless, entertaining banter between players.

"Imagine all the legendary old stories, if we had them recorded," Moeen said.

"We can do the same now. It doesn't have to be swearing. Keep it funny. We want people to be attracted to the game. There's brilliant ways to sledge."

England all-rounder Moeen Ali differs with coach Trevor Bayliss and believes turning up the stump microphones could curb sledging in cricket. West Indies fast bowler Shannon Gabriel was banned for four one-day internationals on Wednesday after found guilty of 'personal abuse' aimed at England skipper Joe Root in the St Lucia test.

England all-rounder Moeen Ali differs with coach Trevor Bayliss and believes turning up the stump microphones could curb sledging in cricket. West Indies fast bowler Shannon Gabriel was banned for four one-day internationals on Wednesday after found guilty of 'personal abuse' aimed at England skipper Joe Root in the St Lucia test. It follows a similar four-match ban on Sarfraz Ahmed after stump microphones caught the Pakistan captain's on-field rant at South Africa all-rounder Andile Phehlukwayo during a one-dayer in Durban last month. "It's time for people to behave themselves," Moeen said before flying to West Indies for the five-match ODI series beginning at Bridgetown on Wednesday. "Turn the stump mics up. Why turn them down? So people can swear? There is no reason to get personal. "... it's the way society is: things come out of people's mouths. You're not going to get away with it now. You have to be careful." The 31-year-old's view contrasts that of Bayliss who advocates turning down the microphones to protect players. "I've said it once before, no I'm not in favour of it and I'm not going to change my mind," Bayliss said before Gabriel's ban was announced. "I think (stump mics) should be down. I know there are people who think the opposite and think it is good for the game but sometimes in the heat of battle things are said, when guys given a bit of time to sit down and think about it would give themselves a bit of a kick up the backside." Moeen, who in his autobiography claimed being called 'Osama' by an unidentified Australia player during the 2015 Ashes series, said turning up the microphones could also catch harmless, entertaining banter between players. "Imagine all the legendary old stories, if we had them recorded," Moeen said. "We can do the same now. It doesn't have to be swearing. Keep it funny. We want people to be attracted to the game. There's brilliant ways to sledge."

Turn up stump mics to curb sledging, says England all-rounder Moeen Ali

West Indies fast bowler Shannon Gabriel has been charged for a language used during the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/england-beat-west-indies-by-232-runs-in-final-test-197090">third Test against England</a> on Monday, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has said.

Gabriel's comment to Joe Root was not audible to television viewers but according to British broadcaster Sky Sports the England captain was heard replying to the bowler: "Don't use it as an insult. There's nothing wrong with being gay".

Umpires Rod Tucker and Kumar Dharmasena spoke to Gabriel afterwards and he was charged with breaching Article 2.13 of the ICC's Code of Conduct on Tuesday.

"The charge, which was laid by match umpires, will now be dealt with by Match Referee Jeff Crowe," the governing body said in a statement on Tuesday. "Until the proceedings have concluded, the ICC will not comment further."

Article 2.13 addresses personal, insulting, obscene or offensive language directed at other players or match officials.

Root declined to elaborate on the specifics of the verbal altercation and was asked again about the incident on Tuesday, after England had won the final Test in St. Lucia, though West Indies claimed the series 2-1.

"As a player you feel you have responsibilities to uphold on the field and I stand by what I did," said the England captain, according to the Guardian.

"The ICC have got to handle things and I am not in a position to comment but throughout the series it has been played in the right manner between the two sides.

"West Indies have played some fantastic cricket, they are a good bunch of guys and it would be a shame if it tarnishes it."

UK&nbsp;Sports Minister Mims Davies was among those who praised Root for his stance.

"What a Leader, Ambassador and HUGE RESPECT for doing the absolute right thing to properly call this out!" Davies said on her Twitter account.

"He is completely right as there simply is NO place in any sport, at any level for discrimination, intolerance and prejudice."

Former England cricketer Nasser Hussain said Root's reaction would help cement his legacy.

"For me his twelve words as a role model will be in the end more important than a Test hundred or possible victory," Hussain tweeted.

West Indies fast bowler Shannon Gabriel has been charged for a language used during the third Test against England on Monday, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has said.

West Indies fast bowler Shannon Gabriel has been charged for a language used during the third Test against England on Monday, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has said. Gabriel's comment to Joe Root was not audible to television viewers but according to British broadcaster Sky Sports the England captain was heard replying to the bowler: "Don't use it as an insult. There's nothing wrong with being gay". Umpires Rod Tucker and Kumar Dharmasena spoke to Gabriel afterwards and he was charged with breaching Article 2.13 of the ICC's Code of Conduct on Tuesday. "The charge, which was laid by match umpires, will now be dealt with by Match Referee Jeff Crowe," the governing body said in a statement on Tuesday. "Until the proceedings have concluded, the ICC will not comment further." Article 2.13 addresses personal, insulting, obscene or offensive language directed at other players or match officials. Root declined to elaborate on the specifics of the verbal altercation and was asked again about the incident on Tuesday, after England had won the final Test in St. Lucia, though West Indies claimed the series 2-1. "As a player you feel you have responsibilities to uphold on the field and I stand by what I did," said the England captain, according to the Guardian. "The ICC have got to handle things and I am not in a position to comment but throughout the series it has been played in the right manner between the two sides. "West Indies have played some fantastic cricket, they are a good bunch of guys and it would be a shame if it tarnishes it." UK Sports Minister Mims Davies was among those who praised Root for his stance. "What a Leader, Ambassador and HUGE RESPECT for doing the absolute right thing to properly call this out!" Davies said on her Twitter account. "He is completely right as there simply is NO place in any sport, at any level for discrimination, intolerance and prejudice." Former England cricketer Nasser Hussain said Root's reaction would help cement his legacy. "For me his twelve words as a role model will be in the end more important than a Test hundred or possible victory," Hussain tweeted.

Windies' Shannon Gabriel charged for language used in England Test

England wrapped up a comprehensive 232-run victory over West Indies in the third Test in St Lucia on Tuesday after home batsman Roston Chase made a century but got little help.

Number five Chase scored an unbeaten 102 for his fifth Test ton, after England pace bowler James Anderson ripped through the home side's top order with three quick wickets.

Although West Indies had already won the series with victories in the first two Tests, England's win in the finale will provide a pick-me-up as they eye a home Ashes series against Australia starting in August.

"This week should be a real confidence booster going into a very exciting summer of cricket," England captain Joe Root said at the victory presentation.

Chasing an unlikely target of 485 runs for victory on day four, West Indies made 252 in their second innings.

Chase brought up his century with his team already nine wickets down when he cut part-timer spinner Joe Denly for four.

He was aided by an entertaining 34 by tailender Alzarri Joseph, who slogged three sixes, but pickings were otherwise slim for the hosts, who crumbled again after scoring only 154 in their first knock.

"We still have a lot of improvement to make but lots of positives came out of the series," said West Indies captain Jason Holder, who was suspended for the match due to his team's slow over-rate in the second Test.

NO ANSWER

West Indies' top order had no answer to Anderson's movement off the seam, with John Campbell (golden duck), Kraigg Brathwaite (eight) and Darren Bravo (duck), all caught in the slip-gully cordon.

Mark Wood, who picked up five wickets in the first innings, continued his outstanding match when he had Shai Hope (14) caught at cover off a leading edge just before lunch. Wood was later named Player of the Match.

"He bowled fantastically well, a huge amount of pace," Root said. "It's great to see him come back into the side and put in such a strong performance... and now prove how good a player he is."

Anderson finished with 3-27, while spinner Moeen Ali had 3-99 as England won with more than a day to spare.

Denly also did his part, delivering an excellent throw from the outfield to run out Shimron Hetmyer for 19.

Earlier, Root declared his team's second innings immediately upon his dismissal for 122, with the visitors 361 for five. Ben Stokes was unbeaten on 48.

England batted for only 5.2 overs, adding a quick 36 runs to their overnight total.

England wrapped up a comprehensive 232-run victory over West Indies in the third Test in St Lucia on Tuesday after home batsman Roston Chase made a century but got little help.

England wrapped up a comprehensive 232-run victory over West Indies in the third Test in St Lucia on Tuesday after home batsman Roston Chase made a century but got little help. Number five Chase scored an unbeaten 102 for his fifth Test ton, after England pace bowler James Anderson ripped through the home side's top order with three quick wickets. Although West Indies had already won the series with victories in the first two Tests, England's win in the finale will provide a pick-me-up as they eye a home Ashes series against Australia starting in August. "This week should be a real confidence booster going into a very exciting summer of cricket," England captain Joe Root said at the victory presentation. Chasing an unlikely target of 485 runs for victory on day four, West Indies made 252 in their second innings. Chase brought up his century with his team already nine wickets down when he cut part-timer spinner Joe Denly for four. He was aided by an entertaining 34 by tailender Alzarri Joseph, who slogged three sixes, but pickings were otherwise slim for the hosts, who crumbled again after scoring only 154 in their first knock. "We still have a lot of improvement to make but lots of positives came out of the series," said West Indies captain Jason Holder, who was suspended for the match due to his team's slow over-rate in the second Test. NO ANSWER West Indies' top order had no answer to Anderson's movement off the seam, with John Campbell (golden duck), Kraigg Brathwaite (eight) and Darren Bravo (duck), all caught in the slip-gully cordon. Mark Wood, who picked up five wickets in the first innings, continued his outstanding match when he had Shai Hope (14) caught at cover off a leading edge just before lunch. Wood was later named Player of the Match. "He bowled fantastically well, a huge amount of pace," Root said. "It's great to see him come back into the side and put in such a strong performance... and now prove how good a player he is." Anderson finished with 3-27, while spinner Moeen Ali had 3-99 as England won with more than a day to spare. Denly also did his part, delivering an excellent throw from the outfield to run out Shimron Hetmyer for 19. Earlier, Root declared his team's second innings immediately upon his dismissal for 122, with the visitors 361 for five. Ben Stokes was unbeaten on 48. England batted for only 5.2 overs, adding a quick 36 runs to their overnight total.

England beat West Indies by 232 runs in final Test

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/nantes-hold-emotional-tribute-to-emiliano-sala-before-match-196465">Argentine footballer Emiliano Sala</a> died of "head and trunk injuries", an inquest in England heard Monday as it began to examine his death in a plane crash in the sea.

Sala, 28, had signed for English Premier League side Cardiff City and was flying to his new team from his old club Nantes in France when his plane went missing over the Channel on January 21.

The wreckage was located on the seabed. <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/body-found-in-wreckage-of-footballer-salas-plane-investigators-195090">The striker's body was recovered</a> but pilot David Ibbotson is still missing. The plane remains under the sea.

In a brief hearing in Bournemouth on the south coast, an inquest into Sala's death was opened, and adjourned until November 6 pending further inquiries.

The post-mortem presented at the hearing gave Sala's cause of death as "head and trunk injuries".

Sala was formally identified by fingerprints.

In English law, inquests are held to examine sudden or unexplained deaths.

They set out to determine the identity of the deceased, the place and time of death as well as how the deceased came by their death, but they do not apportion blame.

'You shouldn't give up'&nbsp;

Senior coroner's officer Ian Parry told the hearing that the plane "was located on the seabed in international waters.

"Following a closer examination of the site a body, later identified as Mr Sala, was found and recovered.

"To date the pilot, Mr Ibbotson, has not been found.

"Police, the Air Accidents Investigation Branch and the Civil Aviation Authority are continuing with their inquiries," he said.

A fundraising campaign to restart the search for Ibbotson is already more than halfway to its £300,000 ($385,000, 340,000 euro) target.

"If you've got hope then you shouldn't give up," his daughter Danielle told ITV television.

"He wouldn't stop searching for me."

Nantes gave a final rousing send off to Sala with a series of moving gestures in their Ligue 1 match against Nimes on Sunday.

Known as the Canaries due to their yellow kit, Nantes played in a one-off full black outfit with Sala's name on the back of each shirt.

Tickets for the game were sold at a symbolic nine euros ($10) in memory of the player's shirt number, which they have also withdrawn.

Before Saturday's Premier League match between Southampton and visitors Cardiff, a minute's silence was observed.

Argentine footballer Emiliano Sala died of "head and trunk injuries", an inquest in England heard Monday as it began to examine his death in a plane crash in the sea.

Argentine footballer Emiliano Sala died of "head and trunk injuries", an inquest in England heard Monday as it began to examine his death in a plane crash in the sea. Sala, 28, had signed for English Premier League side Cardiff City and was flying to his new team from his old club Nantes in France when his plane went missing over the Channel on January 21. The wreckage was located on the seabed. The striker's body was recovered but pilot David Ibbotson is still missing. The plane remains under the sea. In a brief hearing in Bournemouth on the south coast, an inquest into Sala's death was opened, and adjourned until November 6 pending further inquiries. The post-mortem presented at the hearing gave Sala's cause of death as "head and trunk injuries". Sala was formally identified by fingerprints. In English law, inquests are held to examine sudden or unexplained deaths. They set out to determine the identity of the deceased, the place and time of death as well as how the deceased came by their death, but they do not apportion blame. 'You shouldn't give up' Senior coroner's officer Ian Parry told the hearing that the plane "was located on the seabed in international waters. "Following a closer examination of the site a body, later identified as Mr Sala, was found and recovered. "To date the pilot, Mr Ibbotson, has not been found. "Police, the Air Accidents Investigation Branch and the Civil Aviation Authority are continuing with their inquiries," he said. A fundraising campaign to restart the search for Ibbotson is already more than halfway to its £300,000 ($385,000, 340,000 euro) target. "If you've got hope then you shouldn't give up," his daughter Danielle told ITV television. "He wouldn't stop searching for me." Nantes gave a final rousing send off to Sala with a series of moving gestures in their Ligue 1 match against Nimes on Sunday. Known as the Canaries due to their yellow kit, Nantes played in a one-off full black outfit with Sala's name on the back of each shirt. Tickets for the game were sold at a symbolic nine euros ($10) in memory of the player's shirt number, which they have also withdrawn. Before Saturday's Premier League match between Southampton and visitors Cardiff, a minute's silence was observed.

Footballer Emiliano Sala killed by head, trunk injuries: Inquest

Gordon Banks, the goalkeeper in England's 1966 World Cup-winning team, has died at the age of 81, his former club Stoke City said on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Banks won 73 caps for England between 1963 and 1972 and made nearly 200 appearances for Stoke before his playing career was brought to an end due to a car crash that cost him the sight in one eye.&nbsp;

He was widely regarded as one of the greatest goalkeepers to have played the game and will perhaps be best remembered for the diving stop he made to deny Brazil's Pele at the 1970 World Cup, which later became known as the "save of the century".&nbsp;

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We’re deeply saddened to hear that Gordon Banks, our <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorldCup</a>-winning goalkeeper, has passed away. 
 
Our thoughts are with Gordon’s friends, family and supporters at this difficult time. <a href="https://t.co/nbzncYBCFA">pic.twitter.com/nbzncYBCFA</a>
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"An all-time great for England, moments from his remarkable World Cup-winning career will continue to linger long in the memory."<a href="https://t.co/HGCrWnmkqX">https://t.co/HGCrWnmkqX</a>
— England (@England) <a href="https://twitter.com/England/status/1095268699202879488?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"It is with great sadness that we announce that Gordon passed away peacefully overnight," Banks' family said in a statement posted on Stoke's official website.&nbsp;

"We are devastated to lose him but we have so many happy memories and could not have been more proud of him."&nbsp;

Banks began his career at Chesterfield in 1958 and moved to Leicester City the following year. He won his first England cap in 1963, four years before he joined Stoke.&nbsp;

Gordon Banks, the goalkeeper in England's 1966 World Cup-winning team, has died at the age of 81, his former club Stoke City said on Tuesday. Banks won 73 caps for England between 1963 and 1972 and made nearly 200 appearances for Stoke before his playing career was brought to an end due to a car crash that cost him the sight in one eye.

Gordon Banks, the goalkeeper in England's 1966 World Cup-winning team, has died at the age of 81, his former club Stoke City said on Tuesday. Banks won 73 caps for England between 1963 and 1972 and made nearly 200 appearances for Stoke before his playing career was brought to an end due to a car crash that cost him the sight in one eye. He was widely regarded as one of the greatest goalkeepers to have played the game and will perhaps be best remembered for the diving stop he made to deny Brazil's Pele at the 1970 World Cup, which later became known as the "save of the century". We’re deeply saddened to hear that Gordon Banks, our #WorldCup-winning goalkeeper, has passed away. Our thoughts are with Gordon’s friends, family and supporters at this difficult time. pic.twitter.com/nbzncYBCFA — England (@England) February 12, 2019 × "An all-time great for England, moments from his remarkable World Cup-winning career will continue to linger long in the memory."https://t.co/HGCrWnmkqX — England (@England) February 12, 2019 × "It is with great sadness that we announce that Gordon passed away peacefully overnight," Banks' family said in a statement posted on Stoke's official website. "We are devastated to lose him but we have so many happy memories and could not have been more proud of him." Banks began his career at Chesterfield in 1958 and moved to Leicester City the following year. He won his first England cap in 1963, four years before he joined Stoke.

England's World Cup-winning keeper Gordon Banks dies at 81

Former England captain David Beckham will become the first Major League Soccer player honoured with a statue, which will be unveiled outside LA Galaxy's stadium prior to their season opener on March 2, the team said on Friday.

In 2007, the former Manchester United and Real Madrid midfielder became the first big European name to join the MLS, where he won back-to-back championships in 2011 and 2012 during his six years and 98 appearances with the Galaxy.

Beckham's MLS stint helped give the American league credibility and paved the way for other top European players to make the leap in subsequent years.

The 43-year-old is currently the owner of expansion side Inter Miami CF, which is set to join the MLS in 2020.

Former England captain David Beckham will become the first Major League Soccer player honoured with a statue, which will be unveiled outside LA Galaxy's stadium prior to their season opener on March 2, the team said on Friday.

Former England captain David Beckham will become the first Major League Soccer player honoured with a statue, which will be unveiled outside LA Galaxy's stadium prior to their season opener on March 2, the team said on Friday. In 2007, the former Manchester United and Real Madrid midfielder became the first big European name to join the MLS, where he won back-to-back championships in 2011 and 2012 during his six years and 98 appearances with the Galaxy. Beckham's MLS stint helped give the American league credibility and paved the way for other top European players to make the leap in subsequent years. The 43-year-old is currently the owner of expansion side Inter Miami CF, which is set to join the MLS in 2020.

David Beckham to be honoured with statue in LA

England have recalled misfiring opener Keaton Jennings and dropped wicketkeeper Ben Foakes for the third and final Test against the West Indies, which starts in St Lucia on Saturday with the hosts already 2-0 up.

Jennings, who averages 25.86 from his 16 Tests, was dropped for the second Test in Antigua for Joe Denly, who retains his place along with fellow opener Rory Burns.

Foakes, who was unable to don the wicketkeeper's gloves in the 10-wicket Antigua defeat through injury, was passed fit but overlooked - with Jonny Bairstow back behind the stumps.

The selectors have named a 12-man squad with Sam Curran or the recalled Mark Wood set to miss out if Ben Stokes, as expected, is fit to play after recovering from a heel injury.

England have had a torrid series, being bowled out for 77 in the first innings of the first Test in Barbados and being blown away in three days in the second in Antigua.

"There is plenty to play for in this game especially off the back of our two previous performances,” said captain Joe Root. "There is an Ashes around the corner and it is an opportunity for those guys to show how good they are and put their hand up and put in some proper performances.

"I think a lot of it comes down to a mental approach individually with the bat and I think that clarity coming into this game is really important."

England squad for the third Test against West Indies:

Moeen Ali, James Anderson, Jonny Bairstow (wicketkeeper), Stuart Broad, Rory Burns, Jos Buttler, Sam Curran, Joe Denly, Keaton Jennings, Joe Root (captain), Ben Stokes, Mark Wood.

England have recalled misfiring opener Keaton Jennings and dropped wicketkeeper Ben Foakes for the third and final Test against the West Indies, which starts in St Lucia on Saturday with the hosts already 2-0 up.

England have recalled misfiring opener Keaton Jennings and dropped wicketkeeper Ben Foakes for the third and final Test against the West Indies, which starts in St Lucia on Saturday with the hosts already 2-0 up. Jennings, who averages 25.86 from his 16 Tests, was dropped for the second Test in Antigua for Joe Denly, who retains his place along with fellow opener Rory Burns. Foakes, who was unable to don the wicketkeeper's gloves in the 10-wicket Antigua defeat through injury, was passed fit but overlooked - with Jonny Bairstow back behind the stumps. The selectors have named a 12-man squad with Sam Curran or the recalled Mark Wood set to miss out if Ben Stokes, as expected, is fit to play after recovering from a heel injury. England have had a torrid series, being bowled out for 77 in the first innings of the first Test in Barbados and being blown away in three days in the second in Antigua. "There is plenty to play for in this game especially off the back of our two previous performances,” said captain Joe Root. "There is an Ashes around the corner and it is an opportunity for those guys to show how good they are and put their hand up and put in some proper performances. "I think a lot of it comes down to a mental approach individually with the bat and I think that clarity coming into this game is really important." England squad for the third Test against West Indies: Moeen Ali, James Anderson, Jonny Bairstow (wicketkeeper), Stuart Broad, Rory Burns, Jos Buttler, Sam Curran, Joe Denly, Keaton Jennings, Joe Root (captain), Ben Stokes, Mark Wood.

England vs West Indies, 3rd Test: England recall opener Keaton Jennings

British Prime Minister Theresa May will seek to renegotiate the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/eu-has-a-brexit-message-for-pm-may-irish-backstop-is-our-red-line-193501">EU divorce deal</a>, her spokesman said Tuesday, ahead of crunch <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/british-mps-to-vote-today-on-taking-control-of-brexit-from-government-193557">votes in parliament</a> that could reset the course for Brexit.

With exactly two months to go until Britain is scheduled to leave the European Union on March 29, May is going to attempt to change the agreement she herself negotiated -- even though Brussels has insisted it will not re-open it.

"We have to have a deal which can carry the support of parliament and that's going to require some changes to the withdrawal agreement," May's spokesman said, as Downing Street tried to seize the initiative back from MPs.

The draft divorce deal was overwhelmingly rejected by lawmakers on January 15 and deeply divided MPs have been coming up with their own ideas to take a different path.

After May opens a day of debate, MPs are set to vote from 1900 GMT on measures that could include preventing a no-deal Brexit, delaying Brexit, changing the negotiated deal and even seizing control of the entire process.

May's spokesman said she backed a proposed measure that called for the removal of a controversial Irish border "backstop" arrangement written into the divorce deal.

Brexit hardliners from May's Conservative Party are set against the deal due to the backstop, which could see Britain indefinitely tied to EU trade rules in order to keep open the border with the Republic of Ireland.

The proposed measure put forward for Tuesday's votes calls for the backstop to be replaced with "alternative arrangements to avoid a hard border" on the island of Ireland.

The amendment would make clear that the Commons wishes to leave the EU with a deal, confirms the commitment to avoiding border checks and "gives us scope for a new discussion with the EU about how best we achieve that", said May's spokesman.

She told her cabinet that "to win the support of the House of Commons, legal changes to the backstop will be required", he said.

'Groundhog Day'

Confidence in London about being able to change the agreement is met with disbelief in Brussels.

Sabine Weyand, deputy to EU Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier, said: "There's no negotiation between the EU and the UK. That negotiation is finished.

"It does feel like Groundhog Day."

She said Britain risked crashing out of the EU without a deal "by accident" because London cannot decide what it wants.

A source in French President Emmanuel Macron's office said Tuesday: "The withdrawal agreement and the backstop are not renegotiable."

And Ireland's Europe minister Helen McEntee called for "realism" from London as "there can be no change to the backstop".

No-deal risk&nbsp;

Tuesday's votes are the latest twist in the turmoil that the Brexit vote has unleashed in one of the world's top economies.

Increasing numbers of government ministers have warned they will not accept the prospect of Britain leaving without a deal on March 29, immediately severing all ties with its largest trading partner and threatening economic chaos.

British stocks jumped Tuesday and the pound was firmer ahead of the votes.

London's benchmark FTSE 100 index was 1.3 per cent higher in midday deals, while the pound held recently won ground versus the dollar.

One of the amendments which could be voted on Tuesday would open the door for the House of Commons to bring in legislation preventing Britain leaving the EU without a deal by forcing May to delay Brexit for nine months if her deal is not approved before February 26.

It would also give MPs the ability to extend the deadline indefinitely.

The main opposition Labour Party is throwing its weight behind the amendment.

British Prime Minister Theresa May will seek to renegotiate the EU divorce deal, her spokesman said Tuesday, ahead of crunch votes in parliament that could reset the course for Brexit.

British Prime Minister Theresa May will seek to renegotiate the EU divorce deal, her spokesman said Tuesday, ahead of crunch votes in parliament that could reset the course for Brexit. With exactly two months to go until Britain is scheduled to leave the European Union on March 29, May is going to attempt to change the agreement she herself negotiated -- even though Brussels has insisted it will not re-open it. "We have to have a deal which can carry the support of parliament and that's going to require some changes to the withdrawal agreement," May's spokesman said, as Downing Street tried to seize the initiative back from MPs. The draft divorce deal was overwhelmingly rejected by lawmakers on January 15 and deeply divided MPs have been coming up with their own ideas to take a different path. After May opens a day of debate, MPs are set to vote from 1900 GMT on measures that could include preventing a no-deal Brexit, delaying Brexit, changing the negotiated deal and even seizing control of the entire process. May's spokesman said she backed a proposed measure that called for the removal of a controversial Irish border "backstop" arrangement written into the divorce deal. Brexit hardliners from May's Conservative Party are set against the deal due to the backstop, which could see Britain indefinitely tied to EU trade rules in order to keep open the border with the Republic of Ireland. The proposed measure put forward for Tuesday's votes calls for the backstop to be replaced with "alternative arrangements to avoid a hard border" on the island of Ireland. The amendment would make clear that the Commons wishes to leave the EU with a deal, confirms the commitment to avoiding border checks and "gives us scope for a new discussion with the EU about how best we achieve that", said May's spokesman. She told her cabinet that "to win the support of the House of Commons, legal changes to the backstop will be required", he said. 'Groundhog Day' Confidence in London about being able to change the agreement is met with disbelief in Brussels. Sabine Weyand, deputy to EU Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier, said: "There's no negotiation between the EU and the UK. That negotiation is finished. "It does feel like Groundhog Day." She said Britain risked crashing out of the EU without a deal "by accident" because London cannot decide what it wants. A source in French President Emmanuel Macron's office said Tuesday: "The withdrawal agreement and the backstop are not renegotiable." And Ireland's Europe minister Helen McEntee called for "realism" from London as "there can be no change to the backstop". No-deal risk Tuesday's votes are the latest twist in the turmoil that the Brexit vote has unleashed in one of the world's top economies. Increasing numbers of government ministers have warned they will not accept the prospect of Britain leaving without a deal on March 29, immediately severing all ties with its largest trading partner and threatening economic chaos. British stocks jumped Tuesday and the pound was firmer ahead of the votes. London's benchmark FTSE 100 index was 1.3 per cent higher in midday deals, while the pound held recently won ground versus the dollar. One of the amendments which could be voted on Tuesday would open the door for the House of Commons to bring in legislation preventing Britain leaving the EU without a deal by forcing May to delay Brexit for nine months if her deal is not approved before February 26. It would also give MPs the ability to extend the deadline indefinitely. The main opposition Labour Party is throwing its weight behind the amendment.

UK PM May seeks to reopen Brexit deal

The International Cricket Council has urged Sri Lanka's scandal-ridden sporting community to come forward with information about corruption before an amnesty expires or risk expulsion from the game.

Sri Lankan cricket has been mired in corruption allegations in recent years, including claims of match-fixing ahead of an international Test against England last year, and the sport's world governing body is in the middle of a major inquiry into the island nation.

The ICC said it had received a "positive response" after granting a 15-day amnesty this month for players, coaches or anyone else linked to the sport to come clean, free of the threat of punishment.

Council anti-corruption chief Alex Marshall said new cases had come to light and urged others to come forward before the amnesty expires on Thursday.

"In the final few days, I would request the cricket fraternity to come forward and share any other information concerning corrupt conduct or approaches in the strictest of confidence," he said in a statement issued late Monday.

Those who refuse to share information with ICC investigators could face five-year bans if caught.

The ICC considers Sri Lanka the world's most corrupt cricketing nation and the sport's governance riddled with graft "from top to bottom", Sri Lankan sports minister Harin Fernando said last month.

The crisis-ridden Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) governing body is expected to hold elections in February after a nine-month delay from the end of president Thilanga Sumathipala's term last May.

Sumathipala has been accused of violating ICC rules by holding office despite alleged links to gambling. He denies the charges.

In November, former Sri Lankan fast bowler Dilhara Lokuhettige was suspended for corruption linked to a limited-over league in 2017.

Lokuhettige was the third Sri Lankan player charged for violating the ICC's anti-corruption code, following charges levelled against former captain and ex-chief selector

Sanath Jayasuriya, and former paceman Nuwan Zoysa.

Jayasuriya was charged with failing to cooperate with a match-fixing probe and concealing information. Zoysa was suspended over match-fixing accusations.&nbsp;

The International Cricket Council has urged Sri Lanka's scandal-ridden sporting community to come forward with information about corruption before an amnesty expires or risk expulsion from the game.

The International Cricket Council has urged Sri Lanka's scandal-ridden sporting community to come forward with information about corruption before an amnesty expires or risk expulsion from the game. Sri Lankan cricket has been mired in corruption allegations in recent years, including claims of match-fixing ahead of an international Test against England last year, and the sport's world governing body is in the middle of a major inquiry into the island nation. The ICC said it had received a "positive response" after granting a 15-day amnesty this month for players, coaches or anyone else linked to the sport to come clean, free of the threat of punishment. Council anti-corruption chief Alex Marshall said new cases had come to light and urged others to come forward before the amnesty expires on Thursday. "In the final few days, I would request the cricket fraternity to come forward and share any other information concerning corrupt conduct or approaches in the strictest of confidence," he said in a statement issued late Monday. Those who refuse to share information with ICC investigators could face five-year bans if caught. The ICC considers Sri Lanka the world's most corrupt cricketing nation and the sport's governance riddled with graft "from top to bottom", Sri Lankan sports minister Harin Fernando said last month. The crisis-ridden Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) governing body is expected to hold elections in February after a nine-month delay from the end of president Thilanga Sumathipala's term last May. Sumathipala has been accused of violating ICC rules by holding office despite alleged links to gambling. He denies the charges. In November, former Sri Lankan fast bowler Dilhara Lokuhettige was suspended for corruption linked to a limited-over league in 2017. Lokuhettige was the third Sri Lankan player charged for violating the ICC's anti-corruption code, following charges levelled against former captain and ex-chief selector Sanath Jayasuriya, and former paceman Nuwan Zoysa. Jayasuriya was charged with failing to cooperate with a match-fixing probe and concealing information. Zoysa was suspended over match-fixing accusations.

ICC urges Sri Lanka to come clean on corruption

Part-time off-spinner Roston Chase took eight wickets as West Indies crushed England by 381 runs in the first test in Barbados on Saturday.

Chase seized his chance to shine in the absence of any specialist spinner in the team, picking up a test-best eight for 60 at Kensington Oval in Bridgetown.

West Indies, rank underdogs in the three-match series, bowled out England for 246 in the second innings after dismissing them for 77 in the first.

They won with more than a day to spare in what can only be termed a shambolic display by the visitors, who were coming off a summer series win over number one ranked India.

The England top-order all got starts in the second innings but only opener Rory Burns (84) turned it into a big score.

"Bitterly disappointed," England captain Joe Root said in an on-field interview.

"We're a far better side than we've played this week and we've got to keep remembering how well we have played of late."

Statisticians reached for the record books to put the result into historic perspective, revealing only two occasions when the Windies won by bigger margins by runs.

They defeated England by 425 runs in Manchester in 1976 and dusted Australia by 408 runs in Adelaide in 1980.

"It's difficult to explain and hard to take," Root added.

"We didn't underestimate them. It just showed how difficult it is to win away from home."

Chase's extraordinary figures - better than Shane Warne's test best of eight for 71 - were achieved even though he did not exact prodigious turn. He got just enough, however, to keep the batsmen on edge.

Chase came into the match with a profligate test bowling average of over 40. He flighted the ball well but was aided by some poor shots by the batsmen.

Despite Chase's heroics, West Indies captain Jason Holder was named man of the match after his unbeaten second innings knock of 202.

"Really good test match for me personally. To come back the way I've come back I'm really pleased," Holder, who missed the recent tour of Bangladesh due to a shoulder injury, said.

"I've put in a lot of hard work over the last couple of months trying to get myself back to full fitness. I've had a lot (of emotion) bottled up for a long time."

He also heaped praise on Chase.

"He bowled extremely well today. He got the ball in a really good area."

Holder warned that the result, though welcome, was only one match.

"We've still got a long way to go. One test match doesn't make a summer. We've been in this position before, so lots of hard work to be done."

The second test starts on Thursday in North Sound on the island of Antigua.

"We ticked a few boxes in this test match but it's a matter of turning up in Antigua and doing the same," Holder said.

Part-time off-spinner Roston Chase took eight wickets as West Indies crushed England by 381 runs in the first test in Barbados on Saturday. Chase seized his chance to shine in the absence of any specialist spinner in the team, picking up a test-best eight for 60 at Kensington Oval in Bridgetown.

Part-time off-spinner Roston Chase took eight wickets as West Indies crushed England by 381 runs in the first test in Barbados on Saturday. Chase seized his chance to shine in the absence of any specialist spinner in the team, picking up a test-best eight for 60 at Kensington Oval in Bridgetown. West Indies, rank underdogs in the three-match series, bowled out England for 246 in the second innings after dismissing them for 77 in the first. They won with more than a day to spare in what can only be termed a shambolic display by the visitors, who were coming off a summer series win over number one ranked India. The England top-order all got starts in the second innings but only opener Rory Burns (84) turned it into a big score. "Bitterly disappointed," England captain Joe Root said in an on-field interview. "We're a far better side than we've played this week and we've got to keep remembering how well we have played of late." Statisticians reached for the record books to put the result into historic perspective, revealing only two occasions when the Windies won by bigger margins by runs. They defeated England by 425 runs in Manchester in 1976 and dusted Australia by 408 runs in Adelaide in 1980. "It's difficult to explain and hard to take," Root added. "We didn't underestimate them. It just showed how difficult it is to win away from home." Chase's extraordinary figures - better than Shane Warne's test best of eight for 71 - were achieved even though he did not exact prodigious turn. He got just enough, however, to keep the batsmen on edge. Chase came into the match with a profligate test bowling average of over 40. He flighted the ball well but was aided by some poor shots by the batsmen. Despite Chase's heroics, West Indies captain Jason Holder was named man of the match after his unbeaten second innings knock of 202. "Really good test match for me personally. To come back the way I've come back I'm really pleased," Holder, who missed the recent tour of Bangladesh due to a shoulder injury, said. "I've put in a lot of hard work over the last couple of months trying to get myself back to full fitness. I've had a lot (of emotion) bottled up for a long time." He also heaped praise on Chase. "He bowled extremely well today. He got the ball in a really good area." Holder warned that the result, though welcome, was only one match. "We've still got a long way to go. One test match doesn't make a summer. We've been in this position before, so lots of hard work to be done." The second test starts on Thursday in North Sound on the island of Antigua. "We ticked a few boxes in this test match but it's a matter of turning up in Antigua and doing the same," Holder said.

ENGvsWI: Part-time spinner Roston Chase stars as Windies beat England

England's fast bowler Stuart Broad was forced to change his room the night before first Test match of a three-match series between England and West Indies kicked off at Kensington Oval.&nbsp;

Not only that, BBC's cricket commentator Jonathan Agnew claimed that a few of English players slept on mattresses in the corridor of their team hotel.&nbsp;

Broad, who was left out of the side for the first Test, revealed&nbsp;the real reason for the unwanted disruptions.&nbsp;

The pacer was forced to move rooms after an attack of bed-bugs in the team hotel.&nbsp;

"I was getting eaten alive, managed to move rooms, no more bites. No disruptions, Nothing more to the story, not that this is a worthwhile story..." Broad responded to ESPNcricinfo on Twitter.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
I was getting eaten alive, managed to move rooms, no more bites. No disruptions. Nothing more to the story, not that this is a worthwhile story...
— Stuart Broad (@StuartBroad8) <a href="https://twitter.com/StuartBroad8/status/1088196351723257865?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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😂😂. A change of room has done the trick! Bite free this morning! 🙌🏻
— Stuart Broad (@StuartBroad8) <a href="https://twitter.com/StuartBroad8/status/1088195369467609088?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Denying Agnew's claims, an ECB statement said, "It is correct that Stuart has moved rooms at the hotel."

"But it is nonsense to suggest that some players have been sleeping on mattresses outside their rooms. This is not true," the statement further added.&nbsp;

England picked up four late wickets with the second new ball to turn the first Test against West Indies in their favour, leaving the hosts reeling at 264 for eight at stumps on the first day in Barbados on Wednesday.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
James Anderson's three late wickets - and one for Stokes - have brought England roaring back into the contest, and West Indies have slipped from 240/4 to 264/8 at stumps. 
 
Hetmyer is 56 not out. Can he drag West Indies to 300 tomorrow?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WIvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WIvENG</a> SCORE ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/wcA4kPouAm">https://t.co/wcA4kPouAm</a> <a href="https://t.co/k8bEmli0UG">pic.twitter.com/k8bEmli0UG</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1088184989139853319?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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England seek to get their campaign for a first Test series triumph in the Caribbean since 2004 off to a winning start.&nbsp;

England's fast bowler Stuart Broad was forced to change his room the night before first Test match of a three-match series between England and West Indies kicked off at Kensington Oval.

England's fast bowler Stuart Broad was forced to change his room the night before first Test match of a three-match series between England and West Indies kicked off at Kensington Oval. Not only that, BBC's cricket commentator Jonathan Agnew claimed that a few of English players slept on mattresses in the corridor of their team hotel. Broad, who was left out of the side for the first Test, revealed the real reason for the unwanted disruptions. The pacer was forced to move rooms after an attack of bed-bugs in the team hotel. "I was getting eaten alive, managed to move rooms, no more bites. No disruptions, Nothing more to the story, not that this is a worthwhile story..." Broad responded to ESPNcricinfo on Twitter. I was getting eaten alive, managed to move rooms, no more bites. No disruptions. Nothing more to the story, not that this is a worthwhile story... — Stuart Broad (@StuartBroad8) January 23, 2019 × 😂😂. A change of room has done the trick! Bite free this morning! 🙌🏻 — Stuart Broad (@StuartBroad8) January 23, 2019 × Denying Agnew's claims, an ECB statement said, "It is correct that Stuart has moved rooms at the hotel." "But it is nonsense to suggest that some players have been sleeping on mattresses outside their rooms. This is not true," the statement further added. England picked up four late wickets with the second new ball to turn the first Test against West Indies in their favour, leaving the hosts reeling at 264 for eight at stumps on the first day in Barbados on Wednesday. James Anderson's three late wickets - and one for Stokes - have brought England roaring back into the contest, and West Indies have slipped from 240/4 to 264/8 at stumps. Hetmyer is 56 not out. Can he drag West Indies to 300 tomorrow?#WIvENG SCORE ➡️ https://t.co/wcA4kPouAm pic.twitter.com/k8bEmli0UG — ICC (@ICC) January 23, 2019 × England seek to get their campaign for a first Test series triumph in the Caribbean since 2004 off to a winning start.

'Was getting eaten alive': Stuart Broad forced to change room ahead of 1st Test

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/is-there-a-way-back-for-jose-mourinho-185682">Former Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho</a> says he has turned down three job offers since being sacked by the Old Trafford club last month, adding he was happy to bide his time before taking on his next challenge.

Speaking in his role as a pundit for broadcaster beIN Sports during the Asian Cup on Saturday, the Portuguese also said rival Premier League managers Pep Guardiola at Manchester City and Liverpool's Juergen Klopp were supported more by their clubs.

"I am happy with these three weeks, I am happy with this experience and I am going to have other experiences that normally I cannot have," Mourinho said.

"But I know me, and I know by the end of March I will be struggling with my happiness.

"I will analyse things, I don't like to speak about it. But I've refused already three options because I didn't feel that it is what I want, so I'm going to be calm in this aspect.

"The more time I have, the better I can prepare. The next must be something that makes me happy with a challenge."

At United, Mourinho was left frustrated in the close season transfer window when Liverpool, in particular, strengthened markedly and City added to a squad already deep in quality.

"In Liverpool, I think how many players were in Liverpool before Juergen arrived? No Alisson (Becker), no (Virgil) Van Dijk, no (Andrew) Robertson, no (Mohamed) Salah, no (Roberto) Firmino, no (Sadio) Mane, no Fabinho, no (Georginio) Wijnaldum, no (Naby) Keita, so this is work in depth," he said.

"In the case of Manchester City. In the first season, Guardiola was not a champion, it was really difficult and people were expecting a winning Manchester City.

"They were coming already from winning period, champions with (Roberto) Mancini and (Manuel) Pellegrini. Some of the players were already championed twice, (Sergio) Aguero and (Vincent) Kompany, and in the first to the second season Pep made great decisions, but great decisions that were supported.

"For example, he didn't want (Pablo) Zabaleta or (Bacary) Sagna, two right backs, and he didn't want (Aleksander) Kolarov or (Gael) Clichy. In the same summer, he sold four fullbacks and got four fullbacks. He got (Kyle) Walker, Danilo, (Benjamin) Mendy and another. He was supported."

Mourinho said he did not know if he would work again in England but said wherever he goes next he wants to prepare thoroughly, as he did when he went to Inter Milan following his first stint with Chelsea.

"My arrival at Inter was perfect," he said. "I left Chelsea in November and at the end of February, I signed my contract at Inter. From February until June I was preparing myself for that job. In that four months I learned the language, studied the club and the opponents and the league.

"The time I'm without a job in football I prepare for the next one."

'I am happy with these three weeks, I am happy with this experience and I am going to have other experiences that normally I cannot have,' Mourinho said.

Former Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho says he has turned down three job offers since being sacked by the Old Trafford club last month, adding he was happy to bide his time before taking on his next challenge. Speaking in his role as a pundit for broadcaster beIN Sports during the Asian Cup on Saturday, the Portuguese also said rival Premier League managers Pep Guardiola at Manchester City and Liverpool's Juergen Klopp were supported more by their clubs. "I am happy with these three weeks, I am happy with this experience and I am going to have other experiences that normally I cannot have," Mourinho said. "But I know me, and I know by the end of March I will be struggling with my happiness. "I will analyse things, I don't like to speak about it. But I've refused already three options because I didn't feel that it is what I want, so I'm going to be calm in this aspect. "The more time I have, the better I can prepare. The next must be something that makes me happy with a challenge." At United, Mourinho was left frustrated in the close season transfer window when Liverpool, in particular, strengthened markedly and City added to a squad already deep in quality. "In Liverpool, I think how many players were in Liverpool before Juergen arrived? No Alisson (Becker), no (Virgil) Van Dijk, no (Andrew) Robertson, no (Mohamed) Salah, no (Roberto) Firmino, no (Sadio) Mane, no Fabinho, no (Georginio) Wijnaldum, no (Naby) Keita, so this is work in depth," he said. "In the case of Manchester City. In the first season, Guardiola was not a champion, it was really difficult and people were expecting a winning Manchester City. "They were coming already from winning period, champions with (Roberto) Mancini and (Manuel) Pellegrini. Some of the players were already championed twice, (Sergio) Aguero and (Vincent) Kompany, and in the first to the second season Pep made great decisions, but great decisions that were supported. "For example, he didn't want (Pablo) Zabaleta or (Bacary) Sagna, two right backs, and he didn't want (Aleksander) Kolarov or (Gael) Clichy. In the same summer, he sold four fullbacks and got four fullbacks. He got (Kyle) Walker, Danilo, (Benjamin) Mendy and another. He was supported." Mourinho said he did not know if he would work again in England but said wherever he goes next he wants to prepare thoroughly, as he did when he went to Inter Milan following his first stint with Chelsea. "My arrival at Inter was perfect," he said. "I left Chelsea in November and at the end of February, I signed my contract at Inter. From February until June I was preparing myself for that job. In that four months I learned the language, studied the club and the opponents and the league. "The time I'm without a job in football I prepare for the next one."

Soccer: Jose Mourinho says already turned down three job offers

British lawmakers have outlawed the practice of "upskirting" -- secretly taking pictures up women's skirts -- following an 18-month campaign by a victim.

Those found guilty face up to two years in jail, leading campaigner Gina Martin to praise the bill as "politics and society at its best".

Upskirting is the invasive act of taking a photograph underneath a person’s skirt without their permission.

Members of the upper House of Lords on Tuesday gave the bill the final seal of approval, and it now only requires the formality of Royal Assent.

Prime Minister Theresa May personally backed the legislation, saying the&nbsp;practice left victims "feeling degraded and distressed".

The bill was briefly held up last year when a single MP blocked it by shouting "Object!" during a parliamentary vote.

Christopher Chope, a member of May's Conservative Party, claimed he was objecting to the manner in which the bill was introduced, but was met with cries of "shame" from MPs.

Martin tweeted that she was "over the moon" about the vote, adding "I AM EXHAUSTED AND SO HAPPY!".

From Liverpool in northwest England, Martin was attending a music festival in London's Hyde Park when a man rubbed against her while his friend lurked nearby.

"Five minutes later, I saw that his friend... Was watching a picture taken very close to a woman's crotch," she told AFP earlier.

"I knew it was me immediately." Martin grabbed the phone and showed the image to police officers, but "they said 'we can't really help you'." She then decided to campaign to make it illegal, collecting more than 100,000 signatures of support in an online petition.&nbsp;

British lawmakers have outlawed the practice of "upskirting" -- secretly taking pictures up women's skirts -- following an 18-month campaign by a victim. Those found guilty face up to two years in jail, leading campaigner Gina Martin to praise the bill as "politics and society at its best".

British lawmakers have outlawed the practice of "upskirting" -- secretly taking pictures up women's skirts -- following an 18-month campaign by a victim. Those found guilty face up to two years in jail, leading campaigner Gina Martin to praise the bill as "politics and society at its best". Upskirting is the invasive act of taking a photograph underneath a person’s skirt without their permission. Members of the upper House of Lords on Tuesday gave the bill the final seal of approval, and it now only requires the formality of Royal Assent. Prime Minister Theresa May personally backed the legislation, saying the practice left victims "feeling degraded and distressed". The bill was briefly held up last year when a single MP blocked it by shouting "Object!" during a parliamentary vote. Christopher Chope, a member of May's Conservative Party, claimed he was objecting to the manner in which the bill was introduced, but was met with cries of "shame" from MPs. Martin tweeted that she was "over the moon" about the vote, adding "I AM EXHAUSTED AND SO HAPPY!". From Liverpool in northwest England, Martin was attending a music festival in London's Hyde Park when a man rubbed against her while his friend lurked nearby. "Five minutes later, I saw that his friend... Was watching a picture taken very close to a woman's crotch," she told AFP earlier. "I knew it was me immediately." Martin grabbed the phone and showed the image to police officers, but "they said 'we can't really help you'." She then decided to campaign to make it illegal, collecting more than 100,000 signatures of support in an online petition.

'Upskirting' becomes illegal across the UK

In the Brexit-voting town of Redcar in northeastern England, residents voiced dismay at the political infighting that threatens to delay Britain's departure from the EU and called on politicians to "make this work for the country".&nbsp;

"I think they're behaving like children," said one resident, Mark Blakey, a day after British MPs voted overwhelmingly against a Brexit deal agreed with Brussels in a humiliating blow for <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/uk-parliament-votes-down-pm-mays-eu-brexit-deal-by-230-votes-190586">Prime Minister Theresa May</a>.

The result leaves Britain with no plan and in turmoil just 73 days before its scheduled divorce date.

"There's a lot of political infighting, a lot of people trying to go for the top job and for their own self-serving benefits rather than thinking right," said Blakey.

"They need to, quite frankly, grow up, see what the situation is and come together with a proper plan across the parties," said Blakey.

"What we need to do is make this work for the country."

Opposition dilemma&nbsp;

Redcar, a once-prosperous industrial seaside town that has fallen on hard times, voted by 66 per cent in favour of leaving the European Union in the shock 2016 referendum.

It also traditionally votes Labour, illustrating the dilemma faced by the main opposition party, which also has many anti-Brexit supporters who want a second referendum.

Redcar's story is one of economic decline from its heyday.

It used to have a small tourism economy that died out with the 1960s and the advent of cheap foreign travel.

After Britain joined the European common market in 1973, its fishing fleet was next; and its skyline-dominating steelworks was mothballed by its Thai owners in 2015.

For many in Redcar, the Brexit vote was a protest and a hope that radical change could reverse the town's fortunes.

Local resident Kevin Steveson said he hoped that Britain would still be leaving the European Union "but obviously there are one or two things that they've got to sort out".

"I think too many people are taking it to a party political stance. I think Theresa May is doing a not bad job. I hope she wins a vote of no-confidence today," he said.

'Let's get back to normal'&nbsp;

On the beach, local farmer Ivan Crane said he was "worried" about export markets and prices for cattle and grain.

Crane said he had voted to stay in the European Union in 2016 but now wanted Brexit to be implemented.

Asked if he wanted a second referendum, Crane said: "No, I think what's to be will be. I think it sucks it and see."

With a population of 36,000, Redcar sits on the River Tees estuary and originally boomed as a seaside resort from the 1850s.

Archive photographs in the museum show a jolly world of bandstands, swimming baths, promenades and piers, entertainers, rollercoasters and small fishing boats.

The Yorkshire town's historic clock tower centrepiece is dedicated to King Edward VII, who liked to visit.

Its steelworks were emblematic of Britain's industrial might and produced steel for the Sydney Harbour Bridge among other 20th-century landmarks around the world.

Now its high street resembles many in provincial England: a mixture of cafes, betting shops, England flag-bedecked pubs showing football, tattoo parlours and charity shops.

The uncertainty hanging over Britain is a concern to residents like Kathy, who said it was time for MPs to "make their minds up and just get on with it".

"I think they should make a decision, stick to it, do it and let the world get back to normal," she said.

In the Brexit-voting town of Redcar in northeastern England, residents voiced dismay at the political infighting that threatens to delay Britain's departure from the EU and called on politicians to "make this work for the country".

In the Brexit-voting town of Redcar in northeastern England, residents voiced dismay at the political infighting that threatens to delay Britain's departure from the EU and called on politicians to "make this work for the country". "I think they're behaving like children," said one resident, Mark Blakey, a day after British MPs voted overwhelmingly against a Brexit deal agreed with Brussels in a humiliating blow for Prime Minister Theresa May. The result leaves Britain with no plan and in turmoil just 73 days before its scheduled divorce date. "There's a lot of political infighting, a lot of people trying to go for the top job and for their own self-serving benefits rather than thinking right," said Blakey. "They need to, quite frankly, grow up, see what the situation is and come together with a proper plan across the parties," said Blakey. "What we need to do is make this work for the country." Opposition dilemma Redcar, a once-prosperous industrial seaside town that has fallen on hard times, voted by 66 per cent in favour of leaving the European Union in the shock 2016 referendum. It also traditionally votes Labour, illustrating the dilemma faced by the main opposition party, which also has many anti-Brexit supporters who want a second referendum. Redcar's story is one of economic decline from its heyday. It used to have a small tourism economy that died out with the 1960s and the advent of cheap foreign travel. After Britain joined the European common market in 1973, its fishing fleet was next; and its skyline-dominating steelworks was mothballed by its Thai owners in 2015. For many in Redcar, the Brexit vote was a protest and a hope that radical change could reverse the town's fortunes. Local resident Kevin Steveson said he hoped that Britain would still be leaving the European Union "but obviously there are one or two things that they've got to sort out". "I think too many people are taking it to a party political stance. I think Theresa May is doing a not bad job. I hope she wins a vote of no-confidence today," he said. 'Let's get back to normal' On the beach, local farmer Ivan Crane said he was "worried" about export markets and prices for cattle and grain. Crane said he had voted to stay in the European Union in 2016 but now wanted Brexit to be implemented. Asked if he wanted a second referendum, Crane said: "No, I think what's to be will be. I think it sucks it and see." With a population of 36,000, Redcar sits on the River Tees estuary and originally boomed as a seaside resort from the 1850s. Archive photographs in the museum show a jolly world of bandstands, swimming baths, promenades and piers, entertainers, rollercoasters and small fishing boats. The Yorkshire town's historic clock tower centrepiece is dedicated to King Edward VII, who liked to visit. Its steelworks were emblematic of Britain's industrial might and produced steel for the Sydney Harbour Bridge among other 20th-century landmarks around the world. Now its high street resembles many in provincial England: a mixture of cafes, betting shops, England flag-bedecked pubs showing football, tattoo parlours and charity shops. The uncertainty hanging over Britain is a concern to residents like Kathy, who said it was time for MPs to "make their minds up and just get on with it". "I think they should make a decision, stick to it, do it and let the world get back to normal," she said.

Brexit-voting town urges British MPs to grow up

FIFA ranking at the end of the year 2018

The British government could tell citizens to change their diets if importing food from the European Union becomes difficult under a no-deal Brexit, a report said Friday.

London has begun planning what to do about food supplies if Britain leaves the EU without an agreement with Brussels, The Times said, citing plans revealed to the newspaper.

Perishable goods, such as vegetables from the Netherlands or fruit from Spain, could be held up at the border if tough checks are imposed or the EU limits trade, said the report.

It said the government had identified giant hangars around the country that could be used to stockpile food.

However, officials do not think there would be a general food shortage, according to the report.

Some companies have begun taking matters into their own hands.

The Zizzi and ASK restaurant chains will be switching from Italian to British mozzarella suppliers.

The brands' parent company Azzurri said it had taken the decision due to fears that a no-deal Brexit would disrupt food supplies into Britain.

The new Welsh milk mozzarella has already been introduced by ASK and will be on the Zizzi menu next year.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/how-brexit-saga-unfolded-in-2018-184980">How Brexit saga unfolded in 2018</a>

Meanwhile, businesses including Premier Foods, Quorn, and London's plush Fortnum and Mason emporium have said they will stockpile some products in case of delays at the border.

The British government and Brussels have struck a withdrawal agreement that would prevent a no-deal Brexit.

However, it currently lacks majority support in the British parliament, being opposed by both Brexiteer lawmakers and pro-EU MPs alike.

The government has stepped up its no-deal planning.

Prime Minister Theresa May has said the vote on the deal will take place the week of January 14.

Britain is due to leave the EU on March 29.

The British government could tell citizens to change their diets if importing food from the European Union becomes difficult under a no-deal Brexit, a report said Friday.

The British government could tell citizens to change their diets if importing food from the European Union becomes difficult under a no-deal Brexit, a report said Friday. London has begun planning what to do about food supplies if Britain leaves the EU without an agreement with Brussels, The Times said, citing plans revealed to the newspaper. Perishable goods, such as vegetables from the Netherlands or fruit from Spain, could be held up at the border if tough checks are imposed or the EU limits trade, said the report. It said the government had identified giant hangars around the country that could be used to stockpile food. However, officials do not think there would be a general food shortage, according to the report. Some companies have begun taking matters into their own hands. The Zizzi and ASK restaurant chains will be switching from Italian to British mozzarella suppliers. The brands' parent company Azzurri said it had taken the decision due to fears that a no-deal Brexit would disrupt food supplies into Britain. The new Welsh milk mozzarella has already been introduced by ASK and will be on the Zizzi menu next year. Also read: How Brexit saga unfolded in 2018 Meanwhile, businesses including Premier Foods, Quorn, and London's plush Fortnum and Mason emporium have said they will stockpile some products in case of delays at the border. The British government and Brussels have struck a withdrawal agreement that would prevent a no-deal Brexit. However, it currently lacks majority support in the British parliament, being opposed by both Brexiteer lawmakers and pro-EU MPs alike. The government has stepped up its no-deal planning. Prime Minister Theresa May has said the vote on the deal will take place the week of January 14. Britain is due to leave the EU on March 29.

Britons could face diet change under hard Brexit: Report

Olympic silver medallist Belgium created history by making their maiden appearance in the men's hockey World Cup summit clash, thrashing England 6-0 in a lopsided first semi-final here Saturday.

Alexander Hendrickx (45th, 50th minutes) converted two penalty corners, while Tom Boon (8th), Simon Gougnard (19th), Cedric Charlier (42nd) and Sebastien Dockier (53rd) were the other goal scorers for the world number three at the Kalinga Stadium.

Prior to this, the Red Lions' best performance in the World Cup was a fifth-place finish in the last edition of the tournament at The Hague, Netherlands in 2014.

The Belgium players, who wore black armbands to pay respect to their teammate Gougnard whose father passed away before the match, dominated possession in the first two quarters and created a couple of promising chances, two of which resulted in goals.

It didn't take long for Belgium to take the lead as Boon deflected in Florent van Aubel's measured cross from the left in the eighth minute.

Just seconds from the end of first quarter, Boon again came close but his deflection from a long ball hit the post.

Belgium doubled their lead in the 19th minute through Gougnard, who scored from a rebound after Hendrickx's flick from their first penalty corner was saved by England captain and goalkeeper George Pinner.

The Red Lions missed a sitter three minutes from half-time when an unmarked Dockier pushed wide Van Aubel's pass, with only Pinner to beat.

Just a minute after the change of ends, England secured their first penalty corner, but the world number seven failed to capitalise on the opportunity.

Belgium extended their lead in the 42nd minute through Charlier, who scored with a fierce shot from a close range.

Minutes later, England earned another penalty corner but Belgium goalkeeper Vincent Vanasch was up to the task and thwarted the danger with a fine save.

Seconds from the end of the third quarter, Belgium made it 4-0 when Hendrickx found the back of the English net from his team's second penalty corner.

Belgium continued to toy with the English defence and pumped in two more goals in the fourth and final quarter to make the last-four contest a thoroughly one-sided affair.

Another penalty corner resulted in another goal through Hendrickx, in the 50th minute, before Dockier scored from a field effort three minutes later to complete the rout.

Towards the end of the match, England secured two more penalty corners but lack of execution let them down, as they rounded off a disappointing outing.&nbsp;

Olympic silver medallist Belgium created history by making their maiden appearance in the men's hockey World Cup summit clash, thrashing England 6-0 in a lopsided first semi-final here Saturday.

Olympic silver medallist Belgium created history by making their maiden appearance in the men's hockey World Cup summit clash, thrashing England 6-0 in a lopsided first semi-final here Saturday. Alexander Hendrickx (45th, 50th minutes) converted two penalty corners, while Tom Boon (8th), Simon Gougnard (19th), Cedric Charlier (42nd) and Sebastien Dockier (53rd) were the other goal scorers for the world number three at the Kalinga Stadium. Prior to this, the Red Lions' best performance in the World Cup was a fifth-place finish in the last edition of the tournament at The Hague, Netherlands in 2014. The Belgium players, who wore black armbands to pay respect to their teammate Gougnard whose father passed away before the match, dominated possession in the first two quarters and created a couple of promising chances, two of which resulted in goals. It didn't take long for Belgium to take the lead as Boon deflected in Florent van Aubel's measured cross from the left in the eighth minute. Just seconds from the end of first quarter, Boon again came close but his deflection from a long ball hit the post. Belgium doubled their lead in the 19th minute through Gougnard, who scored from a rebound after Hendrickx's flick from their first penalty corner was saved by England captain and goalkeeper George Pinner. The Red Lions missed a sitter three minutes from half-time when an unmarked Dockier pushed wide Van Aubel's pass, with only Pinner to beat. Just a minute after the change of ends, England secured their first penalty corner, but the world number seven failed to capitalise on the opportunity. Belgium extended their lead in the 42nd minute through Charlier, who scored with a fierce shot from a close range. Minutes later, England earned another penalty corner but Belgium goalkeeper Vincent Vanasch was up to the task and thwarted the danger with a fine save. Seconds from the end of the third quarter, Belgium made it 4-0 when Hendrickx found the back of the English net from his team's second penalty corner. Belgium continued to toy with the English defence and pumped in two more goals in the fourth and final quarter to make the last-four contest a thoroughly one-sided affair. Another penalty corner resulted in another goal through Hendrickx, in the 50th minute, before Dockier scored from a field effort three minutes later to complete the rout. Towards the end of the match, England secured two more penalty corners but lack of execution let them down, as they rounded off a disappointing outing.

Belgium maul England 6-0 to make maiden Hockey WC final

A rare history awaits two-time defending champions Australia as they chase a record hat-trick of titles, taking on the Netherlands in the semi-finals of the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/hockey-world-cup">men's hockey World Cup</a> at the Kalinga Stadium here on Saturday.&nbsp;

The world number one Australia is second only to four-time champions Pakistan, having won the world title thrice before, which includes back-to-back gold medals in the last two editions of the tournament in 2010 and 2014.&nbsp;

Come Saturday, the Kookaburras will be chasing their third consecutive world crown. But it would be easier said than done as in world no.4 Netherlands a tough contest awaits Australia.&nbsp;

The Dutch, who have won the title thrice before - the last time being in 1998, too would be desperate to break their 20-year-old jinx.&nbsp;

The Netherlands would be high on confidence especially after their hard-fought 2-1 win over home favourites India in the quarter-finals on Thursday.&nbsp;

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Amazing Australia takes on the formidable Netherlands in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OdishaHockeyWorldCup2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OdishaHockeyWorldCup2018</a> Semi-Final 2! Gear up for a nail-biting phenomenon on 15th December, 6:30 PM tonight! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Odisha2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Odisha2018</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HWC2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HWC2018</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KalingaStadium?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KalingaStadium</a> &nbsp; 
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Going by form and world ranking, it is expected to be an edge of the seat thriller between the two teams, who prefer to play a totally contrasting style of hockey.&nbsp;

While attacking hockey is the backbone of Australia, the Dutch mostly prefer to play waiting for the game with a compact defence and relying more on counters to surprise their opponents.&nbsp;

There is hardly anything to differentiate between the two sides going by recent head-to-head record.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Since 2013, Australia and Netherlands have played each other 11 times with the Kookaburras winning five and losing four while two ended in draws.&nbsp;

The Australians made a slow start but grew in confidence as the tournament progressed.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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After a hard-fought 2-1 win over Ireland in their opener, Australia stepped on the gas and registered convincing wins over England (3-0), China (11-0) and France (3-0).&nbsp;

The Dutch, on the other hand, started with a bang and mauled Malaysia 7-0 before losing 1-4 to Germany.&nbsp;

They defeated Pakistan 5-1 in their last pool match before beating Canada 5-0 in the cross-overs and eking out a close 2-1 win over India in the quarter-finals.&nbsp;

The Australia-Netherlands match has all the makings of a classic. In 2014 at The Hague, Australia came out on top against Netherlands 6-1 in front of home crowd to lift their second consecutive World Cup.&nbsp;

And Saturday's encounter will provide the Dutch an opportunity to avenge their loss four years ago.&nbsp;

But in the last four years since they met in the final of 2014, much has changed.&nbsp;

The likes of Jamie Dwyer, Mark Knowles and Glenn Turner have retired but the Kookaburras have rebuilt brilliantly under coach Colin Batch since the disappointment of Rio Olympics and have returned to the top of the world rankings.&nbsp;

The Dutch, on the other hand, are unquestionably much tougher under Max Caldas now than they were four years ago.&nbsp;

Australia's Daniel Beale too agreed that it would be a tough, exciting battle on Saturday for a place in Sunday's summit clash.&nbsp;

"We are into the crucial stage of the tournament. We got to watch last night's match between Holland and India. So we have learnt a lot from that. We are expecting a very tough match tomorrow," he said.&nbsp;

"We have very proud history. There is no special formula. We work hard, we train hard. We are fiercely competitive. Every tournament we go we go to win."&nbsp;

Beale said what happened four years ago will hardly have any impact in Saturday's must-win game.&nbsp;

"In 2014 Australia had great success in the final but that was a long time ago and this group has changed immensely. So we are looking to create a bit of history," Beale said.&nbsp;

"Holland are a very tough team. They have quality players. Billy (Bakker), (Robert) Kemperman, (Valentin) Verga. We wil do our homework and try to nullify them."&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Olympic silver medallist Belgium too would be looking to create history by making their maiden World Cup final appearance when they take on England in the first semi-final earlier in the day.

A rare history awaits two-time defending champions Australia as they chase a record hat-trick of titles, taking on the Netherlands in the semi-finals of the men's hockey World Cup at the Kalinga Stadium here on Saturday.

A rare history awaits two-time defending champions Australia as they chase a record hat-trick of titles, taking on the Netherlands in the semi-finals of the men's hockey World Cup at the Kalinga Stadium here on Saturday. The world number one Australia is second only to four-time champions Pakistan, having won the world title thrice before, which includes back-to-back gold medals in the last two editions of the tournament in 2010 and 2014. Come Saturday, the Kookaburras will be chasing their third consecutive world crown. But it would be easier said than done as in world no.4 Netherlands a tough contest awaits Australia. The Dutch, who have won the title thrice before - the last time being in 1998, too would be desperate to break their 20-year-old jinx. The Netherlands would be high on confidence especially after their hard-fought 2-1 win over home favourites India in the quarter-finals on Thursday. Amazing Australia takes on the formidable Netherlands in the #OdishaHockeyWorldCup2018 Semi-Final 2! Gear up for a nail-biting phenomenon on 15th December, 6:30 PM tonight! #Odisha2018 #HWC2018 #KalingaStadium Visit: https://t.co/YQG4YTcYvs for the latest info! pic.twitter.com/CXHJZwsFuK — Hockey World Cup 2018 - Host Partner (@sports_odisha) December 14, 2018 × Going by form and world ranking, it is expected to be an edge of the seat thriller between the two teams, who prefer to play a totally contrasting style of hockey. While attacking hockey is the backbone of Australia, the Dutch mostly prefer to play waiting for the game with a compact defence and relying more on counters to surprise their opponents. There is hardly anything to differentiate between the two sides going by recent head-to-head record. Since 2013, Australia and Netherlands have played each other 11 times with the Kookaburras winning five and losing four while two ended in draws. The Australians made a slow start but grew in confidence as the tournament progressed. The #OdishaHockeyWorldCup2018 Semi-Final 1 between England and Belgium promises an adrenaline rush like no other! Tune in tomorrow for an incredible game of hockey! #Odisha2018 #HWC2018 #KalingaStadium Visit https://t.co/YQG4YTcYvs for exclusive highlights.#HWC2018 #Odisha2018 pic.twitter.com/e31wWRfjwN — Hockey World Cup 2018 - Host Partner (@sports_odisha) December 14, 2018 × After a hard-fought 2-1 win over Ireland in their opener, Australia stepped on the gas and registered convincing wins over England (3-0), China (11-0) and France (3-0). The Dutch, on the other hand, started with a bang and mauled Malaysia 7-0 before losing 1-4 to Germany. They defeated Pakistan 5-1 in their last pool match before beating Canada 5-0 in the cross-overs and eking out a close 2-1 win over India in the quarter-finals. The Australia-Netherlands match has all the makings of a classic. In 2014 at The Hague, Australia came out on top against Netherlands 6-1 in front of home crowd to lift their second consecutive World Cup. And Saturday's encounter will provide the Dutch an opportunity to avenge their loss four years ago. But in the last four years since they met in the final of 2014, much has changed. The likes of Jamie Dwyer, Mark Knowles and Glenn Turner have retired but the Kookaburras have rebuilt brilliantly under coach Colin Batch since the disappointment of Rio Olympics and have returned to the top of the world rankings. The Dutch, on the other hand, are unquestionably much tougher under Max Caldas now than they were four years ago. Australia's Daniel Beale too agreed that it would be a tough, exciting battle on Saturday for a place in Sunday's summit clash. "We are into the crucial stage of the tournament. We got to watch last night's match between Holland and India. So we have learnt a lot from that. We are expecting a very tough match tomorrow," he said. "We have very proud history. There is no special formula. We work hard, we train hard. We are fiercely competitive. Every tournament we go we go to win." Beale said what happened four years ago will hardly have any impact in Saturday's must-win game. "In 2014 Australia had great success in the final but that was a long time ago and this group has changed immensely. So we are looking to create a bit of history," Beale said. "Holland are a very tough team. They have quality players. Billy (Bakker), (Robert) Kemperman, (Valentin) Verga. We wil do our homework and try to nullify them." Meanwhile, Olympic silver medallist Belgium too would be looking to create history by making their maiden World Cup final appearance when they take on England in the first semi-final earlier in the day.

Hockey World Cup 2018, Semi-final: Australia vs Netherlands, Belgium vs England

England stunned Olympic champions Argentina 3-2 to book their place in the semi-finals of the 14th men's Hockey World Cup here on Wednesday.

England, who conceded the lead in the 17th minute, staged a superb come back to make their third successive semi-final appearance in the history of the tournament.

England scored three field goals through Barry Middleton (27th minute), Will Calnan (45th) and Harry Martin (49th), while Gonzalo Peillat (17th, 48th) struck both the goals for the losers at the Kalinga Stadium.

Argentina, the bronze medallist in 2014, had themselves to blame for the defeat as they missed chances galore and got into panic mode after conceding the third goal.

Both Argentina and England were levelled 1-1 till 45th minutes but three goals in the last quarter changed the whole scenario.

Will Calnan made it 2-1 for England before Peillat drew parity in the 48th minute.

But a minute later Martin shocked the Los Leones with a field strike to hand England the decisive lead.

Earlier, realising that slow pace is not helping them, England raised their tempo and that paid dividends as they earned their first penalty corner in the 11th minute.

Luke Taylor's effort from the resultant set-piece earned them another penalty corner immediately but Argentina defended stoutly to keep their rivals at bay.

Argentina secured its first penalty corner in the 17th minute and drag-flick expert Peillat scored with a powerful flick to take the lead.

While Argentina players were celebrating, England almost equalised with a brisk counter-attack only for David Condon to miss a sitter.

Thereafter, the Los Leones surprisingly adopted a defensive approach and that worked in England's favour.

Mark Gleghorne's fine run down from the right flank and his subsequent cross was cleared by England defenders which laid in front of an unmarked

Middleton, who slotted home with a powerful shot past goalkeeper Juan Vivaldi to level the scores.

Buoyed by the equaliser, England went on the offensive but failed to get past Argentina's crowded defence.

Argentina, on the other hand, adopted a wait and watch policy to launch counter-attacks.

But it was not to be as England striker Zachary Wallace made an impressive run into the Argentine circle and was brought down inside, which earned the Los Leones back-to-back penalty corners but they wasted both.

In the last quarter, Argentina equalised through Peillat's penalty corner conversion before Martin struck a minute later with a field strike to hand England the unexpected winner.

England will take on the winner of the match between Germany and Belgium in the semi-finals on Saturday.

England stunned Olympic champions Argentina 3-2 to book their place in the semi-finals of the 14th men's Hockey World Cup here on Wednesday. England, who conceded the lead in the 17th minute, staged a superb come back to make their third successive semi-final appearance in the history of the tournament.

England stunned Olympic champions Argentina 3-2 to book their place in the semi-finals of the 14th men's Hockey World Cup here on Wednesday. England, who conceded the lead in the 17th minute, staged a superb come back to make their third successive semi-final appearance in the history of the tournament. England scored three field goals through Barry Middleton (27th minute), Will Calnan (45th) and Harry Martin (49th), while Gonzalo Peillat (17th, 48th) struck both the goals for the losers at the Kalinga Stadium. Argentina, the bronze medallist in 2014, had themselves to blame for the defeat as they missed chances galore and got into panic mode after conceding the third goal. Both Argentina and England were levelled 1-1 till 45th minutes but three goals in the last quarter changed the whole scenario. Will Calnan made it 2-1 for England before Peillat drew parity in the 48th minute. But a minute later Martin shocked the Los Leones with a field strike to hand England the decisive lead. Earlier, realising that slow pace is not helping them, England raised their tempo and that paid dividends as they earned their first penalty corner in the 11th minute. Luke Taylor's effort from the resultant set-piece earned them another penalty corner immediately but Argentina defended stoutly to keep their rivals at bay. Argentina secured its first penalty corner in the 17th minute and drag-flick expert Peillat scored with a powerful flick to take the lead. While Argentina players were celebrating, England almost equalised with a brisk counter-attack only for David Condon to miss a sitter. Thereafter, the Los Leones surprisingly adopted a defensive approach and that worked in England's favour. Mark Gleghorne's fine run down from the right flank and his subsequent cross was cleared by England defenders which laid in front of an unmarked Middleton, who slotted home with a powerful shot past goalkeeper Juan Vivaldi to level the scores. Buoyed by the equaliser, England went on the offensive but failed to get past Argentina's crowded defence. Argentina, on the other hand, adopted a wait and watch policy to launch counter-attacks. But it was not to be as England striker Zachary Wallace made an impressive run into the Argentine circle and was brought down inside, which earned the Los Leones back-to-back penalty corners but they wasted both. In the last quarter, Argentina equalised through Peillat's penalty corner conversion before Martin struck a minute later with a field strike to hand England the unexpected winner. England will take on the winner of the match between Germany and Belgium in the semi-finals on Saturday.

England beat Argentina 3-2 to move into Hockey World Cup semi-finals

By Andy Price

Finally, after two tortuous years of negotiations, it looked like the UK’s elected representatives were about to vote on Prime Minister Theresa May’s Brexit deal. Then, despite vowing to go ahead, May decided to postpone the vote the day before. She had faced almost certain defeat and now says she will speak to EU leaders to find a new way forward.

Technically and legally May was within her rights to back out of the vote. However, the political optics are another thing altogether. This is a government, remember, found in contempt of Parliament for withholding information from MPs. Pulling such an important vote out of self-interest does not look good. Doing so a day before the vote is not politic, as Speaker John Bercow pointed out after her statement. Just how much of the normal running order of UK politics is the prime minister ready to jettison?

It seems that May now intends to go back to Brussels and seek concessions around the Irish backstop – a sticking point that riled Brexiteers and Remainers MPs alike – in order to make the vote winnable at a later date. But the question here must be: what concessions? Is she going to ask that the UK as whole to stay in the customs union and maybe even the single market, which is the only real way the Irish border (and the backstop) problem disappears?

Not a chance: this would anger the Brexiteers in her party even more (if that is possible). Rather, the concession she is after is to somehow make the backstop more palatable to the people she has been appealing to from the beginning: the hard Brexiteers. That might be something like agreeing that the backstop becomes a temporary arrangement, somehow.

Corbyn’s alternative?

How will opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn react to this delay? Is he going to try and stick to the line that he wants a general election, promising that if – and it is a big “if” – he won that election he would go back and renegotiate with the EU?

If so, then his fate looks as bleak as May’s. What is it that he imagines he can offer that will provide enough fuel to power the EU27 to reopen the negotiations they have just taken so long to close? And remember, they are not just reopening negotiations with the UK, but among themselves too: they have to reach a unified position before they can agree a position with the UK. The idea that they will be able to reopen talks and get negotiations finished before the end of March is quite frankly ludicrous.

Apart, maybe, from one scenario: that a Labour government would offer to stay in the customs union, in the single market, accept freedom of movement and the jurisdiction of the European Court of Justice. That may be motivation enough for the EU – but it is essentially staying in the EU in anything else but name (and decision-making power).

Parliamentary power 
 
Whatever happens next, one thing is clear: the heads of the UK’s two main parties are no closer to solving this problem from their positions of leadership. It is to other MPs, then, that voters should turn. Only the House of Commons, acting as a collective body, can steer the nation through this political mess.

We should remember that despite all the cries of betrayal from the Brexiteers, this House of Commons as a collective entity was constituted by the people in a vote that superseded the referendum: the snap election of 2017. The MPs that sit in this parliament are the representatives the people chose to enact Brexit in 2017.

And key here is that this house of Commons is hung – there is no outright majority. A clearer display of where the country is at you could not find. As a reflection of that very vote, this house has found it very difficult to agree on anything as the negotiations on Brexit have progressed.

This, then, is the state of the House of Commons as we head into Christmas. And the reality is, everything the government and the opposition have tried so far in terms of Brexit has so far failed. MPs need to find a way to coalesce around a different way forward. There needs to be a proposal, plan or motion that will attract the magic number of 314 MPs needed for a majority in order that a way out can be enacted.

Crucially, we know that if such a plan were to emerge, it would not be a hard Brexit or May’s deal – that much has been proven in the run-up to the originally planned vote. Whatever the proposal would be, we should remind ourselves and others that this will be the will of the people expressed via British constitutional means.

Whatever the focus on the role of the PM and other individual politicians in another crazy week, let’s try to remember that the collective sense of the country’s elective representatives is the key player here. Let’s hope it shows up.

(Andy Price is Head of Politics, Sheffield Hallam University)

(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/brexit-vote-postponed-what-parliament-must-do-now-to-fix-theresa-mays-mess-108518">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

 
&nbsp;

By Andy Price Finally, after two tortuous years of negotiations, it looked like the UK’s elected representatives were about to vote on Prime Minister Theresa May’s Brexit deal.

By Andy Price Finally, after two tortuous years of negotiations, it looked like the UK’s elected representatives were about to vote on Prime Minister Theresa May’s Brexit deal. Then, despite vowing to go ahead, May decided to postpone the vote the day before. She had faced almost certain defeat and now says she will speak to EU leaders to find a new way forward. Technically and legally May was within her rights to back out of the vote. However, the political optics are another thing altogether. This is a government, remember, found in contempt of Parliament for withholding information from MPs. Pulling such an important vote out of self-interest does not look good. Doing so a day before the vote is not politic, as Speaker John Bercow pointed out after her statement. Just how much of the normal running order of UK politics is the prime minister ready to jettison? It seems that May now intends to go back to Brussels and seek concessions around the Irish backstop – a sticking point that riled Brexiteers and Remainers MPs alike – in order to make the vote winnable at a later date. But the question here must be: what concessions? Is she going to ask that the UK as whole to stay in the customs union and maybe even the single market, which is the only real way the Irish border (and the backstop) problem disappears? Not a chance: this would anger the Brexiteers in her party even more (if that is possible). Rather, the concession she is after is to somehow make the backstop more palatable to the people she has been appealing to from the beginning: the hard Brexiteers. That might be something like agreeing that the backstop becomes a temporary arrangement, somehow. Corbyn’s alternative? How will opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn react to this delay? Is he going to try and stick to the line that he wants a general election, promising that if – and it is a big “if” – he won that election he would go back and renegotiate with the EU? If so, then his fate looks as bleak as May’s. What is it that he imagines he can offer that will provide enough fuel to power the EU27 to reopen the negotiations they have just taken so long to close? And remember, they are not just reopening negotiations with the UK, but among themselves too: they have to reach a unified position before they can agree a position with the UK. The idea that they will be able to reopen talks and get negotiations finished before the end of March is quite frankly ludicrous. Apart, maybe, from one scenario: that a Labour government would offer to stay in the customs union, in the single market, accept freedom of movement and the jurisdiction of the European Court of Justice. That may be motivation enough for the EU – but it is essentially staying in the EU in anything else but name (and decision-making power). Parliamentary power Whatever happens next, one thing is clear: the heads of the UK’s two main parties are no closer to solving this problem from their positions of leadership. It is to other MPs, then, that voters should turn. Only the House of Commons, acting as a collective body, can steer the nation through this political mess. We should remember that despite all the cries of betrayal from the Brexiteers, this House of Commons as a collective entity was constituted by the people in a vote that superseded the referendum: the snap election of 2017. The MPs that sit in this parliament are the representatives the people chose to enact Brexit in 2017. And key here is that this house of Commons is hung – there is no outright majority. A clearer display of where the country is at you could not find. As a reflection of that very vote, this house has found it very difficult to agree on anything as the negotiations on Brexit have progressed. This, then, is the state of the House of Commons as we head into Christmas. And the reality is, everything the government and the opposition have tried so far in terms of Brexit has so far failed. MPs need to find a way to coalesce around a different way forward. There needs to be a proposal, plan or motion that will attract the magic number of 314 MPs needed for a majority in order that a way out can be enacted. Crucially, we know that if such a plan were to emerge, it would not be a hard Brexit or May’s deal – that much has been proven in the run-up to the originally planned vote. Whatever the proposal would be, we should remind ourselves and others that this will be the will of the people expressed via British constitutional means. Whatever the focus on the role of the PM and other individual politicians in another crazy week, let’s try to remember that the collective sense of the country’s elective representatives is the key player here. Let’s hope it shows up. (Andy Price is Head of Politics, Sheffield Hallam University) (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Brexit vote postponed: What Parliament must do now to fix Theresa May’s mess

England defeated New Zealand 2-0 in the first crossover of the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/hockey-world-cup">Men's Hockey World Cup 2018</a> on Monday at Odisha's Kalinga Stadium.

England will meet Argentina in the first quarter-final which is scheduled to happen on December 12.

England dominated the majority of the game but a big shout out for New Zealand's goalkeeper Richard Joyce as he made several brilliant saves in the game.

Will Calnan scored England's first goal with a perfect-mid-air deflection. Phil Roper pushed the ball from the left corner and set a perfect chance at the goalmouth for Calnan, which he scored without making any mistake.

Liam Sanford was given the player of the match for his tremendous effort in England's victory.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
FT: 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 2-0 🇳🇿 
Into the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HWC2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HWC2018</a> quarter-finals we go! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ThePride?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ThePride</a> 🦁 <a href="https://t.co/ynhazD3xWC">pic.twitter.com/ynhazD3xWC</a>
— England Hockey (@EnglandHockey) <a href="https://twitter.com/EnglandHockey/status/1072109066267385857?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 10, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The move was initiated by Liam Sanford then Phil Roper pushed it and Calnan timed it directly into the goal.

The second goal was scored by Luke Taylor in the concluding minutes of the third quarter.

Taylor scored after a penalty corner rebounded off and he grabbed the opportunity to extend the lead to 2-0.

England defeated New Zealand 2-0 in the first crossover of the Men's Hockey World Cup 2018 on Monday at Odisha's Kalinga Stadium. England will meet Argentina in the first quarter-final which is scheduled to happen on December 12.

England defeated New Zealand 2-0 in the first crossover of the Men's Hockey World Cup 2018 on Monday at Odisha's Kalinga Stadium. England will meet Argentina in the first quarter-final which is scheduled to happen on December 12. England dominated the majority of the game but a big shout out for New Zealand's goalkeeper Richard Joyce as he made several brilliant saves in the game. Will Calnan scored England's first goal with a perfect-mid-air deflection. Phil Roper pushed the ball from the left corner and set a perfect chance at the goalmouth for Calnan, which he scored without making any mistake. Liam Sanford was given the player of the match for his tremendous effort in England's victory. FT: 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 2-0 🇳🇿 Into the #HWC2018 quarter-finals we go! #ThePride 🦁 pic.twitter.com/ynhazD3xWC — England Hockey (@EnglandHockey) December 10, 2018 × The move was initiated by Liam Sanford then Phil Roper pushed it and Calnan timed it directly into the goal. The second goal was scored by Luke Taylor in the concluding minutes of the third quarter. Taylor scored after a penalty corner rebounded off and he grabbed the opportunity to extend the lead to 2-0.

Hockey World Cup: England defeat New Zealand to face Argentina in quarter-final

Brothers Mark and Paul Gleghorne are to hockey what Ed and Dom Joyce are to cricket, with a common Ireland and England connection.

The Gleghorne brothers are the epitome of hockey's sibling rivalry.&nbsp;

While Ed is a more famous name having played cricket for both Ireland and England, Dom represented Ireland in only three One-Day Internationals.&nbsp;

Similarly, in hockey, the more ambitious Mark shifted allegiance to England in 2008 and had to serve a cooling-off period for three years before being eligible to represent his adopted country. Paul, on the other hand, stayed loyal to his native country.&nbsp;

On Friday, one of the brothers - Paul - was left heartbroken after his elder brother Mark scored late for England to sent Ireland packing from the ongoing men's hockey World Cup with a 4-2 result in a must-win final Pool B match.&nbsp;

For Mark, it was business as usual and emotions hardly had any place on the turf.&nbsp;

"It was a bloody tough match. It was an excellent game from both sides. It was end-to-end stuff. A draw would have been fine for both teams but it's very dangerous and so we went for the kill," Mark told PTI when asked about the match.&nbsp;

A draw between England and Ireland would have secured both the teams' place in the cross-overs, leaving China out of the tournament.&nbsp;

Mark is also disappointed that his younger brother is going home early.&nbsp;

"Yeah (I'm disappointed for Paul). Ireland is a very good team but World Cup throws up funny results. I am really disappointed for him," said the 33-year-old striker, who made his debut for England in 2011 after having served a three-year cooling-off period.&nbsp;

"He (Paul) is obviously going to be pretty disappointed. But I want to achieve something here just for myself and my teammates. I have got a responsibility just to play for my team and myself," Mark added.&nbsp;

While Mark has 233 international caps in total (105 with England, 80 for Ireland and rest with Great Britain), Paul's 218 caps are with Ireland.&nbsp;

Hailing from Antrim in Nothern Ireland, the Gleghorne brothers lived hockey from childhood and played the game together for their native club back home. 
But Mark felt Great Britain would give him better opportunities to succeed at Olympics and world level.&nbsp;

Mark was in the scheme of things for the 2012 London Olympics but, as luck would have it, he failed to make the cut because of an injury.

Paul saw his dream come true when Ireland qualified for the 2016 Rio Games for the first time in Olympics' 108-year-old history.&nbsp;

"I came from Northern Ireland so I had the option of changing sides easily. I don't regret my decision (of shifting loyalty)," Mark said.&nbsp;

"We used to play for the same club but now I live in England and he lives in Ireland. We grew up in Antrim and played for Antrim. We are only two years apart so we are pretty close. We share a lot of experiences," he added.

Brothers Mark and Paul Gleghorne are to hockey what Ed and Dom Joyce are to cricket, with a common Ireland and England connection. The Gleghorne brothers are the epitome of hockey's sibling rivalry.

Brothers Mark and Paul Gleghorne are to hockey what Ed and Dom Joyce are to cricket, with a common Ireland and England connection. The Gleghorne brothers are the epitome of hockey's sibling rivalry. While Ed is a more famous name having played cricket for both Ireland and England, Dom represented Ireland in only three One-Day Internationals. Similarly, in hockey, the more ambitious Mark shifted allegiance to England in 2008 and had to serve a cooling-off period for three years before being eligible to represent his adopted country. Paul, on the other hand, stayed loyal to his native country. On Friday, one of the brothers - Paul - was left heartbroken after his elder brother Mark scored late for England to sent Ireland packing from the ongoing men's hockey World Cup with a 4-2 result in a must-win final Pool B match. For Mark, it was business as usual and emotions hardly had any place on the turf. "It was a bloody tough match. It was an excellent game from both sides. It was end-to-end stuff. A draw would have been fine for both teams but it's very dangerous and so we went for the kill," Mark told PTI when asked about the match. A draw between England and Ireland would have secured both the teams' place in the cross-overs, leaving China out of the tournament. Mark is also disappointed that his younger brother is going home early. "Yeah (I'm disappointed for Paul). Ireland is a very good team but World Cup throws up funny results. I am really disappointed for him," said the 33-year-old striker, who made his debut for England in 2011 after having served a three-year cooling-off period. "He (Paul) is obviously going to be pretty disappointed. But I want to achieve something here just for myself and my teammates. I have got a responsibility just to play for my team and myself," Mark added. While Mark has 233 international caps in total (105 with England, 80 for Ireland and rest with Great Britain), Paul's 218 caps are with Ireland. Hailing from Antrim in Nothern Ireland, the Gleghorne brothers lived hockey from childhood and played the game together for their native club back home. But Mark felt Great Britain would give him better opportunities to succeed at Olympics and world level. Mark was in the scheme of things for the 2012 London Olympics but, as luck would have it, he failed to make the cut because of an injury. Paul saw his dream come true when Ireland qualified for the 2016 Rio Games for the first time in Olympics' 108-year-old history. "I came from Northern Ireland so I had the option of changing sides easily. I don't regret my decision (of shifting loyalty)," Mark said. "We used to play for the same club but now I live in England and he lives in Ireland. We grew up in Antrim and played for Antrim. We are only two years apart so we are pretty close. We share a lot of experiences," he added.

If cricket has Joyce brothers, hockey owns Gleghornes

Cricketers Ben Stokes and Alex Hales were fined on Friday for their involvement in a nightclub altercation but were cleared to play for England after match bans were either suspended or declared served.

All-rounder Stokes and batsman Hales had appeared before a two-day disciplinary hearing after the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) charged the pair with bringing the game into disrepute following the September 2017 incident in Bristol.

Stokes was handed an eight-match ban by the disciplinary panel, which accepted that he had already missed that number of games and therefore remained eligible for immediate selection.

The player, who was cleared of affray at Bristol crown court last August, was also fined a total of 30,000 pounds ($38,193.00) with half to be paid to charity.

Hales, who faced no criminal charges, was given a six-match ban from England white ball (one day) matches, of which two had been missed already and the rest were suspended for 12 months -- leaving him also available for selection.

He was fined a total of 17,500 pounds, with 10,000 of that sum also suspended.

The pair, who have both resumed their international careers, had risked anything from a warning to the termination of contract.

Each was charged with two counts of breaching an ECB directive concerning acts "which may be prejudicial to the interests of cricket or which may bring the ECB, the game of cricket or any cricketer or group of cricketers into disrepute."

England take on West Indies in three tests, five one-day internationals and three Twenty20 internationals from January to March.

Stokes had been accused of knocking out Ryan Ali and Ryan Hale in a brawl in Bristol, southwest England, just hours after he had played in a one-day international against the West Indies in September last year.

His lawyer had said in a statement after he was cleared of affray that the case had cost the player the England vice-captaincy as well as his place on an Ashes tour to Australia and other England matches.

"Cricket and family are my life," the 27-year-old Stokes said in a statement on the ECB's website on Friday.

"This incident has been a huge burden for the last 15 months. I am relieved to get back to playing the game that I love without this hanging over me.

"Although the disciplinary process is now over, I have learned lessons that will stay with me for much longer."

Cricketers Ben Stokes and Alex Hales were fined on Friday for their involvement in a nightclub altercation but were cleared to play for England after match bans were either suspended or declared served.

Cricketers Ben Stokes and Alex Hales were fined on Friday for their involvement in a nightclub altercation but were cleared to play for England after match bans were either suspended or declared served. All-rounder Stokes and batsman Hales had appeared before a two-day disciplinary hearing after the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) charged the pair with bringing the game into disrepute following the September 2017 incident in Bristol. Stokes was handed an eight-match ban by the disciplinary panel, which accepted that he had already missed that number of games and therefore remained eligible for immediate selection. The player, who was cleared of affray at Bristol crown court last August, was also fined a total of 30,000 pounds ($38,193.00) with half to be paid to charity. Hales, who faced no criminal charges, was given a six-match ban from England white ball (one day) matches, of which two had been missed already and the rest were suspended for 12 months -- leaving him also available for selection. He was fined a total of 17,500 pounds, with 10,000 of that sum also suspended. The pair, who have both resumed their international careers, had risked anything from a warning to the termination of contract. Each was charged with two counts of breaching an ECB directive concerning acts "which may be prejudicial to the interests of cricket or which may bring the ECB, the game of cricket or any cricketer or group of cricketers into disrepute." England take on West Indies in three tests, five one-day internationals and three Twenty20 internationals from January to March. Stokes had been accused of knocking out Ryan Ali and Ryan Hale in a brawl in Bristol, southwest England, just hours after he had played in a one-day international against the West Indies in September last year. His lawyer had said in a statement after he was cleared of affray that the case had cost the player the England vice-captaincy as well as his place on an Ashes tour to Australia and other England matches. "Cricket and family are my life," the 27-year-old Stokes said in a statement on the ECB's website on Friday. "This incident has been a huge burden for the last 15 months. I am relieved to get back to playing the game that I love without this hanging over me. "Although the disciplinary process is now over, I have learned lessons that will stay with me for much longer."

Ben Stokes and Alex Hales fined but free to play for England

England defeated Ireland 4-2 in a nail-biting game to reach the crossover stage and eliminate their opponents from the ongoing Hockey World Cup in Bhubaneshwar on Friday. 
&nbsp; 
By virtue of this win, the English side finished second in Pool B and will next play New Zealand, fondly known as Black Sticks, in order to set a clash up with Argentina in the quarter-finals.

A draw today would have sent Ireland through, and they twice managed to come from behind to level at 2-2 in the third quarter.

But James Gall restored England's lead and they held on in the final quarter before Mark Gleghorne scored a penalty corner with the last play of the game.

"It's always a tight game against Ireland and they caused us quite a lot of problems," said man-of-the-match Liam Ansell.

"But we knew that if we could take our chances then we would win the game and we did that here.

"We never wanted to draw the game - in these tournaments it's about building momentum from game to game and that's what we're trying to do."

Ireland finished bottom of Pool B, one point behind third-placed China, who drew with England and Ireland in their first two games.

England defeated Ireland 4-2 in a nail-biting game to reach the crossover stage and eliminate their opponents from the ongoing Hockey World Cup in Bhubaneshwar on Friday.

England defeated Ireland 4-2 in a nail-biting game to reach the crossover stage and eliminate their opponents from the ongoing Hockey World Cup in Bhubaneshwar on Friday. By virtue of this win, the English side finished second in Pool B and will next play New Zealand, fondly known as Black Sticks, in order to set a clash up with Argentina in the quarter-finals. A draw today would have sent Ireland through, and they twice managed to come from behind to level at 2-2 in the third quarter. But James Gall restored England's lead and they held on in the final quarter before Mark Gleghorne scored a penalty corner with the last play of the game. "It's always a tight game against Ireland and they caused us quite a lot of problems," said man-of-the-match Liam Ansell. "But we knew that if we could take our chances then we would win the game and we did that here. "We never wanted to draw the game - in these tournaments it's about building momentum from game to game and that's what we're trying to do." Ireland finished bottom of Pool B, one point behind third-placed China, who drew with England and Ireland in their first two games.

Hockey World Cup 2018: England knock out Ireland with 4-2 win

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp has been charged with misconduct for his behaviour in Sunday`s 1-0 Merseyside derby victory over Everton in the Premier League, England's Football Association said on Monday.

The German ran on to the pitch in wild celebration of Divock Origi`s 96th-minute winner at Anfield and later apologised to his Everton counterpart Marco Silva.

Victory took unbeaten Liverpool to 36 points and two points behind leaders Manchester City.

"Klopp has been charged with misconduct relating to his behaviour in the 96th minute of the game between Liverpool and Everton yesterday," the FA said in a statement.

He has until 1800GMT on Thursday to respond to the charge.

Meanwhile, Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge has been granted additional time to respond to charges of misconduct in relation to alleged breaches of its betting rules.

The charge relates to the period of January 2018 and Sturridge had been previously asked to respond on Nov. 20. The FA said on Monday it had extended the 29-year-old England international`s deadline to 1800GMT on Feb. 11 next year.

FA rules prohibit players and coaches from betting on any football activity or providing non-public information to any other person that is then used for betting.

Former Manchester City midfielder Joey Barton, who served a 13-month ban for betting offences when he was a Burnley player, had urged the FA to alter their "zero-tolerance" approach to gambling in soccer after Sturridge was charged.

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp has been charged with misconduct for his behaviour in Sunday`s 1-0 Merseyside derby victory over Everton in the Premier League, England's Football Association said on Monday.

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp has been charged with misconduct for his behaviour in Sunday`s 1-0 Merseyside derby victory over Everton in the Premier League, England's Football Association said on Monday. The German ran on to the pitch in wild celebration of Divock Origi`s 96th-minute winner at Anfield and later apologised to his Everton counterpart Marco Silva. Victory took unbeaten Liverpool to 36 points and two points behind leaders Manchester City. "Klopp has been charged with misconduct relating to his behaviour in the 96th minute of the game between Liverpool and Everton yesterday," the FA said in a statement. He has until 1800GMT on Thursday to respond to the charge. Meanwhile, Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge has been granted additional time to respond to charges of misconduct in relation to alleged breaches of its betting rules. The charge relates to the period of January 2018 and Sturridge had been previously asked to respond on Nov. 20. The FA said on Monday it had extended the 29-year-old England international`s deadline to 1800GMT on Feb. 11 next year. FA rules prohibit players and coaches from betting on any football activity or providing non-public information to any other person that is then used for betting. Former Manchester City midfielder Joey Barton, who served a 13-month ban for betting offences when he was a Burnley player, had urged the FA to alter their "zero-tolerance" approach to gambling in soccer after Sturridge was charged.

Liverpool manager Klopp charged with misconduct for derby celebration

England hockey team were stunned in their campaign opener of the 14th edition of hockey World Cup by debutants China on Friday at Odisha's Kalinga Stadium.&nbsp;

The high-octane match became intriguing in the fourth and final quarter which saw multiple ups and down for both the team.

In the first quarter, China's striker Guo Xiaoping hammered team's first goal which was equalised by England's Mark Gleghorne with the help of a penalty corner.

China's men's hockey team's best result in the sport to date is a silver medal finish at the 2006 Doha Asian Games and after the thirling entry in the World cup, the team is definitely in the title race.

After two goalless quarters, England got a breakthrough in the 48th minute as Liam Ansell scored but in a turn of events, China's Talake Du netted the equalizer in a nail-biting finish.

Talake Du was given the player of the match for his crucial contribution to his team.

China's South Korean coach Sang Ryul Kim praised the lion-hearted efforts of his men, saying the result came as a "surprise" to him.&nbsp;

"We came here with no high expectation as we are making our debut. What we wanted was to show fight and we did that today. It was a gritty performance from the boys and it was a good surprise to see us score 2 goals today," Kim said after the match.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/live-hockey-world-cup-2018-england-vs-china-180490">As it happened | England 2-2 China</a>

Unusual as it may sound but China, for all its sporting culture, provinces and gargantuan size, had to pick all its 18 hockey World Cup-bound players from one province.

Very few people know that the country's entire 18-member men's hockey team belongs to just one province -&nbsp;Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. China is made up of 34 provinces.

The modern game started in China in the mid-1970s.

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The Chinese players were eager to take a photo to mark the occasion of their first ever Hockey World Cup match, after the team drew against <a href="https://twitter.com/EnglandHockey?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EnglandHockey</a> in their opening match of the OHMWC Bhubaneswar 2018.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaKaGame?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaKaGame</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HWC2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HWC2018</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DilHockey?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DilHockey</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvCHN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGvCHN</a> <a href="https://t.co/wG6wqjKNY6">pic.twitter.com/wG6wqjKNY6</a>
— Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheHockeyIndia/status/1068524376067198980?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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In the other hard-fought Pool B match, which was between Australia and Ireland, Kookaburras defeated Ireland 2-1.

Next, China will face Ireland on December 4 and England will meet Australia on the same date.

England hockey team were stunned in their campaign opener of the 14th edition of hockey World Cup by debutants China on Friday at Odisha's Kalinga Stadium. The high-octane match became intriguing in the fourth and final quarter which saw multiple ups and down for both the team.

England hockey team were stunned in their campaign opener of the 14th edition of hockey World Cup by debutants China on Friday at Odisha's Kalinga Stadium. The high-octane match became intriguing in the fourth and final quarter which saw multiple ups and down for both the team. In the first quarter, China's striker Guo Xiaoping hammered team's first goal which was equalised by England's Mark Gleghorne with the help of a penalty corner. China's men's hockey team's best result in the sport to date is a silver medal finish at the 2006 Doha Asian Games and after the thirling entry in the World cup, the team is definitely in the title race. After two goalless quarters, England got a breakthrough in the 48th minute as Liam Ansell scored but in a turn of events, China's Talake Du netted the equalizer in a nail-biting finish. Talake Du was given the player of the match for his crucial contribution to his team. China's South Korean coach Sang Ryul Kim praised the lion-hearted efforts of his men, saying the result came as a "surprise" to him. "We came here with no high expectation as we are making our debut. What we wanted was to show fight and we did that today. It was a gritty performance from the boys and it was a good surprise to see us score 2 goals today," Kim said after the match. Also Read: As it happened | England 2-2 China Unusual as it may sound but China, for all its sporting culture, provinces and gargantuan size, had to pick all its 18 hockey World Cup-bound players from one province. Very few people know that the country's entire 18-member men's hockey team belongs to just one province - Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. China is made up of 34 provinces. The modern game started in China in the mid-1970s. The Chinese players were eager to take a photo to mark the occasion of their first ever Hockey World Cup match, after the team drew against @EnglandHockey in their opening match of the OHMWC Bhubaneswar 2018.#IndiaKaGame #HWC2018 #DilHockey #ENGvCHN pic.twitter.com/wG6wqjKNY6 — Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) November 30, 2018 × In the other hard-fought Pool B match, which was between Australia and Ireland, Kookaburras defeated Ireland 2-1. Next, China will face Ireland on December 4 and England will meet Australia on the same date.

Hockey: China hold England in World Cup debut match

England beat Sri Lanka by 42 runs in the third and final Test in Colombo on Monday to complete a 3-0 series sweep.

Chasing an improbable 327 to gain a consolation victory, Sri Lanka were dismissed for 284 at the start of the final session of the fourth day at the Sinhalese Sports Club.

Kusal Mendis (86) and Roshen Silva (65) scored a bulk of the runs for the hosts, who had conceded a 96-run first innings lead and resumed the day on 53-4.

Spin duo of Moeen Ali (4-92) and Jack Leach (4-72) shared eight wickets between them to ensure England became just the third team to win a Test series 3-0 in Sri Lanka.

England beat Sri Lanka by 42 runs in the third and final Test in Colombo on Monday to complete a 3-0 series sweep. Chasing an improbable 327 to gain a consolation victory, Sri Lanka were dismissed for 284 at the start of the final session of the fourth day at the Sinhalese Sports Club.

England beat Sri Lanka by 42 runs in the third and final Test in Colombo on Monday to complete a 3-0 series sweep. Chasing an improbable 327 to gain a consolation victory, Sri Lanka were dismissed for 284 at the start of the final session of the fourth day at the Sinhalese Sports Club. Kusal Mendis (86) and Roshen Silva (65) scored a bulk of the runs for the hosts, who had conceded a 96-run first innings lead and resumed the day on 53-4. Spin duo of Moeen Ali (4-92) and Jack Leach (4-72) shared eight wickets between them to ensure England became just the third team to win a Test series 3-0 in Sri Lanka.

ENG vs SL, 3rd Test: England beat Sri Lanka by 42 runs, win series

As the Brexit negotiations head towards an endgame, there is turmoil all around. British politics is on knife’s edge with the future of Prime Minister Theresa May and in some ways the entire Conservative Party on the line. The Opposition, too, is struggling to put its own house in order and even the European Union is facing disunity within its ranks despite pretensions of a united front.&nbsp;

Last week, an agreement on the withdrawal deal was reached in principle by May and the European Union (EU) which included a £39 billion “divorce bill” and the controversial customs “backstop” which keeps the UK temporarily in the EU customs union so as to prevent the return of manned customs posts at the Irish border. However, the joint political declaration on future relations which is to be confirmed on Sunday is only temporary. It will be the 21-month transition period after Britain leaves the EU on March 29, 2019, that would see the finalisation of the binding agreement. And this has led to challenges from all sides.

May is struggling to finalise a Brexit deal to be agreed at this Sunday’s summit of European leaders even as she is under pressure from her own MPs not to cede any further ground in negotiations. For the time being, her threat is that she has managed to get the best possible deal from the EU and that it’s either this deal or no deal and, therefore, no Brexit that has secured her position. But there is a demand for more clarity on all sides of the British Parliament about the exact terms of UK’s future engagement with the EU if at all the Parliament is to support the deal.&nbsp;

Despite a number of resignations from her cabinet and backroom manoeuvring to topple her from No 10 Downing Street, May looks stronger today than she looked last week and that’s a tribute to her own political skills and quite an accomplishment under the present circumstances. Yet her critics remain unrelenting. One of her strongest detractors, Jacob Rees-Mogg, has made a case that the time has come for May’s detractors to push for a confidence vote in May or face the spectacle of her leading the Tories into the next election. But he has accepted that he doesn’t have the required threshold of 48 letters needed to trigger a contest for Tory leadership. Opinion polls are also underscoring that support for May is growing among the British populace which is looking for a speedy resolution of this crisis. &nbsp;

On the other side, the EU had to complete the text on future ties with the UK on Tuesday but several member states have raised objection, leading to a delay. Countries have highlighted several issues such as UK access to the EU single market, access to UK waters for EU boats as well as Gibraltar. Spain, which is worried about the future status of Gibraltar, has warned it will reject the draft Brexit withdrawal deal without a clarification of the text on future talks on the status of Gibraltar. France has raised concerns about fishing rights and nations as the Netherlands and Denmark, remain concerned about the potential competitive advantage to UK businesses over the European without the UK being tied to strict environmental regulations.

Despite these concerns, Brussels would be hoping that when it would come to the crunch on Sunday, all 27 member nations of the EU would sign up to the Brexit deal so as to avoid a situation where there is a no deal and further uncertainty haunts the region. And in some ways, it is in EU’s interest that the British Prime Minister gets her plan approved by the British Parliament. A domestic political crisis in the UK is not in EU’s interest at this critical juncture. May also wants to demonstrate that she is fighting hard to secure British interests. So in a way, both May and the EU are sailing in the same boat.&nbsp;

As Britain struggles with its future relationship with the EU, its outreach to nations like India has been growing in order to seek out new avenues for economic relationships. British officials have been signalling that Brexit could augur well for trade ties between India and the EU as the two nations would find it easier to conclude a free trade pact without the involvement of the entire panoply of EU member states.&nbsp;

The economic relationship between the UK and India certainly remains a robust one. While the two nations can look forward to a potential FTA, the negotiations can only proceed once the UK has put its own house in order. India will also be looking for concessions on Indian skilled labour accessing UK markets.&nbsp;

The challenge for the UK at the moment is to sort out its own internal deliberations on the future of its trajectory with the EU. New Delhi will assess its own future with the UK in light of the choices London makes with Brussels.

(This article was originally published on DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-brexit-a-challenge-for-uk-an-opportunity-for-india-2688308">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) 
&nbsp;

As the Brexit negotiations head towards an endgame, there is turmoil all around. British politics is on knife’s edge with the future of Prime Minister Theresa May and in some ways the entire Conservative Party on the line.

As the Brexit negotiations head towards an endgame, there is turmoil all around. British politics is on knife’s edge with the future of Prime Minister Theresa May and in some ways the entire Conservative Party on the line. The Opposition, too, is struggling to put its own house in order and even the European Union is facing disunity within its ranks despite pretensions of a united front. Last week, an agreement on the withdrawal deal was reached in principle by May and the European Union (EU) which included a £39 billion “divorce bill” and the controversial customs “backstop” which keeps the UK temporarily in the EU customs union so as to prevent the return of manned customs posts at the Irish border. However, the joint political declaration on future relations which is to be confirmed on Sunday is only temporary. It will be the 21-month transition period after Britain leaves the EU on March 29, 2019, that would see the finalisation of the binding agreement. And this has led to challenges from all sides. May is struggling to finalise a Brexit deal to be agreed at this Sunday’s summit of European leaders even as she is under pressure from her own MPs not to cede any further ground in negotiations. For the time being, her threat is that she has managed to get the best possible deal from the EU and that it’s either this deal or no deal and, therefore, no Brexit that has secured her position. But there is a demand for more clarity on all sides of the British Parliament about the exact terms of UK’s future engagement with the EU if at all the Parliament is to support the deal. Despite a number of resignations from her cabinet and backroom manoeuvring to topple her from No 10 Downing Street, May looks stronger today than she looked last week and that’s a tribute to her own political skills and quite an accomplishment under the present circumstances. Yet her critics remain unrelenting. One of her strongest detractors, Jacob Rees-Mogg, has made a case that the time has come for May’s detractors to push for a confidence vote in May or face the spectacle of her leading the Tories into the next election. But he has accepted that he doesn’t have the required threshold of 48 letters needed to trigger a contest for Tory leadership. Opinion polls are also underscoring that support for May is growing among the British populace which is looking for a speedy resolution of this crisis. On the other side, the EU had to complete the text on future ties with the UK on Tuesday but several member states have raised objection, leading to a delay. Countries have highlighted several issues such as UK access to the EU single market, access to UK waters for EU boats as well as Gibraltar. Spain, which is worried about the future status of Gibraltar, has warned it will reject the draft Brexit withdrawal deal without a clarification of the text on future talks on the status of Gibraltar. France has raised concerns about fishing rights and nations as the Netherlands and Denmark, remain concerned about the potential competitive advantage to UK businesses over the European without the UK being tied to strict environmental regulations. Despite these concerns, Brussels would be hoping that when it would come to the crunch on Sunday, all 27 member nations of the EU would sign up to the Brexit deal so as to avoid a situation where there is a no deal and further uncertainty haunts the region. And in some ways, it is in EU’s interest that the British Prime Minister gets her plan approved by the British Parliament. A domestic political crisis in the UK is not in EU’s interest at this critical juncture. May also wants to demonstrate that she is fighting hard to secure British interests. So in a way, both May and the EU are sailing in the same boat. As Britain struggles with its future relationship with the EU, its outreach to nations like India has been growing in order to seek out new avenues for economic relationships. British officials have been signalling that Brexit could augur well for trade ties between India and the EU as the two nations would find it easier to conclude a free trade pact without the involvement of the entire panoply of EU member states. The economic relationship between the UK and India certainly remains a robust one. While the two nations can look forward to a potential FTA, the negotiations can only proceed once the UK has put its own house in order. India will also be looking for concessions on Indian skilled labour accessing UK markets. The challenge for the UK at the moment is to sort out its own internal deliberations on the future of its trajectory with the EU. New Delhi will assess its own future with the UK in light of the choices London makes with Brussels. (This article was originally published on DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Brexit: A challenge for UK, an opportunity for India

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