Australia's star all-rounder Ellyse Perry on Sunday said seeing wicketkeeper-batter Alyssa Healy go about her brilliant knock of 170 was just amazing to watch.

Healy smashed 170 off 138 balls, including 26 fours against England in the final at Hagley Oval to set up Australia's 71-run win and clinch their seventh World Cup trophy. 
 
"They are unique (the other WC wins) but today was just wonderful. For Midge (Healy) to do what she did was amazing to watch. We had a wonderful crowd in and it has been a fantastic tournament for the game. The teams that have played have competed so hard, there have been some amazing contests and for Australia to finish the way we did was just awesome," said Perry after the match.

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Perry was a huge doubt for the title clash as she sat out of Australia's last two matches against Bangladesh and semi-final against West Indies due to back spasms. But Perry was fit in time to replace fellow all-rounder Annabel Sutherland in the playing eleven for the final. Perry was quick in expressing her gratitude to the medical professionals with the team to get her fit in time for the final. 
 
"It was pretty close in the end (on making the final). Huge amount of gratitude to our medical staff over the last 10 days to help me get there. Equally a hard one as someone had to miss out and Annabel is a great mate of mine and disappointed that she was the one. From a personal perspective, it was wonderful to be involved."

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Though Perry hit some boundaries in the end to take Australia past the 350-mark, she didn't get to bowl due to managing her return from the back spasms. She didn't mind it but signed off by saying that the shift in mental attitude from the 2017 ODI World Cup semi-final exit changed Australia for the good. 
 
"I did mark my run-up when we got to the ground but I definitely wasn't needed. I guess just the shift in the attitude to take the game on all the time and to deal with pressure along the way. Just that mentality is the huge shift from the 2017 World Cup has been impressive."

Australia's star all-rounder Ellyse Perry on Sunday said seeing wicketkeeper-batter Alyssa Healy go about her brilliant knock of 170 was just amazing to watch. Healy smashed 170 off 138 balls, including 26 fours against England in the final at Hagley Oval to set up Australia's 71-run win and clinch their seventh World Cup trophy.

Australia's star all-rounder Ellyse Perry on Sunday said seeing wicketkeeper-batter Alyssa Healy go about her brilliant knock of 170 was just amazing to watch. Healy smashed 170 off 138 balls, including 26 fours against England in the final at Hagley Oval to set up Australia's 71-run win and clinch their seventh World Cup trophy. "They are unique (the other WC wins) but today was just wonderful. For Midge (Healy) to do what she did was amazing to watch. We had a wonderful crowd in and it has been a fantastic tournament for the game. The teams that have played have competed so hard, there have been some amazing contests and for Australia to finish the way we did was just awesome," said Perry after the match. ALSO READ: Alyssa Healy's sensational ton helps Australia thrash New Zealand to lift record 7th Women's World Cup trophy Perry was a huge doubt for the title clash as she sat out of Australia's last two matches against Bangladesh and semi-final against West Indies due to back spasms. But Perry was fit in time to replace fellow all-rounder Annabel Sutherland in the playing eleven for the final. Perry was quick in expressing her gratitude to the medical professionals with the team to get her fit in time for the final. "It was pretty close in the end (on making the final). Huge amount of gratitude to our medical staff over the last 10 days to help me get there. Equally a hard one as someone had to miss out and Annabel is a great mate of mine and disappointed that she was the one. From a personal perspective, it was wonderful to be involved." ALSO READ: Alyssa Healy breaks Adam Gilchrist's record with a stunning knock against England in Women's WC final Though Perry hit some boundaries in the end to take Australia past the 350-mark, she didn't get to bowl due to managing her return from the back spasms. She didn't mind it but signed off by saying that the shift in mental attitude from the 2017 ODI World Cup semi-final exit changed Australia for the good. "I did mark my run-up when we got to the ground but I definitely wasn't needed. I guess just the shift in the attitude to take the game on all the time and to deal with pressure along the way. Just that mentality is the huge shift from the 2017 World Cup has been impressive."

Amazing to watch what she did: Ellyse Perry lauds Alyssa Healy after her ton powers AUS to 7th World Cup title

Poland's Iga Swiatek will take over the world number one ranking in style as she kept her remarkable winning run intact with a 6-4 6-0 win over Japan's Naomi Osaka in the Miami Open final on Saturday.

The Polish second seed, who will take over the world number one ranking next week, did not drop a set in Miami and has now won 17 consecutive matches dating back to her championship run at the Qatar Open in February.

With the victory, the 20-year-old Swiatek becomes only the fourth woman to win the Indian Wells and Miami tournaments back-to-back, a feat known as the "Sunshine Double" given the tournaments'&nbsp;respective locations in California and Florida.

"These weeks were so intense I didn't really know if I would able to keep up with the streak that I have," said Swiatek, who also became the first woman to win the opening three WTA 1000 tournaments in a season.

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"It's amazing for me that I could show mental toughness because my whole life I thought I could do more and sometimes I was losing and I didn't even know why.

"This season I feel like everything clicked so it's great and I am really happy."

The two players wasted no time getting into the heat of the battle as the match began with a wild seven-deuce opening game during which four-time Grand Slam champion Osaka saved two break points and fired down four aces to hold serve.

The match remained on serve until Swiatek broke Osaka when she ripped a brilliant crosscourt backhand winner to go ahead 3-2 and then went on to close out the first set without facing a break point despite serving under 40%.

The former French Open champion raised her level in the second where she broke Osaka three times to race out to a 5-0 lead and never looked back as she sealed the 79-minute match on her first championship point when Osaka sent a forehand wide.

Swiatek is the first women to complete the "Sunshine Double" since Victoria Azarenka in 2016. Kim Clijsters (2005) and Steffi Graf (1994, 1996) are the other women to accomplish the feat.

Osaka arrived in Florida following a second-round loss at Indian Wells where she was reduced to tears after being heckled during the match but she proved resilient as she would only drop one set en route to the Miami final.

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In the final, Osaka did well to hold serve in a tricky 10-minute game to start the match and while she was not able to do much against a determined Swiatek after that she still held her head high.

"I haven't been in this position for a little minute," said the 24-year-old Osaka, who took a break from the sport last year to prioritise her mental health.

"I know this isn't the outcome that you guys wanted but I am having a lot of fun out here so I hope that I can keep working hard and get more opportunities to be in a situation like this again."

Swiatek will take over the top ranking from Ash Barty, who stunned the sporting world last month when she announced her retirement from tennis aged 25.

Poland's Iga Swiatek will take over the world number one ranking in style as she kept her remarkable winning run intact with a 6-4 6-0 win over Japan's Naomi Osaka in the Miami Open final on Saturday.

Poland's Iga Swiatek will take over the world number one ranking in style as she kept her remarkable winning run intact with a 6-4 6-0 win over Japan's Naomi Osaka in the Miami Open final on Saturday. The Polish second seed, who will take over the world number one ranking next week, did not drop a set in Miami and has now won 17 consecutive matches dating back to her championship run at the Qatar Open in February. With the victory, the 20-year-old Swiatek becomes only the fourth woman to win the Indian Wells and Miami tournaments back-to-back, a feat known as the "Sunshine Double" given the tournaments' respective locations in California and Florida. "These weeks were so intense I didn't really know if I would able to keep up with the streak that I have," said Swiatek, who also became the first woman to win the opening three WTA 1000 tournaments in a season. ALSO READ: Australian tennis player Nick Kyrgios fined $35,000 for Miami Open violations "It's amazing for me that I could show mental toughness because my whole life I thought I could do more and sometimes I was losing and I didn't even know why. "This season I feel like everything clicked so it's great and I am really happy." The two players wasted no time getting into the heat of the battle as the match began with a wild seven-deuce opening game during which four-time Grand Slam champion Osaka saved two break points and fired down four aces to hold serve. The match remained on serve until Swiatek broke Osaka when she ripped a brilliant crosscourt backhand winner to go ahead 3-2 and then went on to close out the first set without facing a break point despite serving under 40%. The former French Open champion raised her level in the second where she broke Osaka three times to race out to a 5-0 lead and never looked back as she sealed the 79-minute match on her first championship point when Osaka sent a forehand wide. Swiatek is the first women to complete the "Sunshine Double" since Victoria Azarenka in 2016. Kim Clijsters (2005) and Steffi Graf (1994, 1996) are the other women to accomplish the feat. Osaka arrived in Florida following a second-round loss at Indian Wells where she was reduced to tears after being heckled during the match but she proved resilient as she would only drop one set en route to the Miami final. ALSO READ: Miami Open: Iga Swiatek runs down Petra Kvitova to enter semis, Casper Ruud stuns Alexander Zverev In the final, Osaka did well to hold serve in a tricky 10-minute game to start the match and while she was not able to do much against a determined Swiatek after that she still held her head high. "I haven't been in this position for a little minute," said the 24-year-old Osaka, who took a break from the sport last year to prioritise her mental health. "I know this isn't the outcome that you guys wanted but I am having a lot of fun out here so I hope that I can keep working hard and get more opportunities to be in a situation like this again." Swiatek will take over the top ranking from Ash Barty, who stunned the sporting world last month when she announced her retirement from tennis aged 25.

Miami Open: Poland's Iga Swiatek beats Naomi Osaka to clinch title, replaces Ash Barty as world no.1

Spanish teenager Carlos Alcaraz continued his sensational play on Friday to beat defending champion Hubert Hurkacz 7-6(5) 7-6(2) and set up a Miami Open final against Casper Ruud, who ended the dream run of Francisco Cerundolo with a 6-4 6-1 win earlier.

For the second night Alcaraz electrified the fans at Hard Rock Stadium with his feisty and fearless play and the 18-year-old will now look to become the tournament's youngest-ever champion on Sunday against world number eight Ruud.

"I will try to play like it's the first round to mask the nerves," said Alcaraz, who beat Ruud in straight sets in their only previous meeting in Marbella, Spain, last year.

"I think I'm going to enjoy it and it will be a great final."

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In the first set, Alcaraz erased a breakpoint while trailing 3-4 with one of his trademark drop shots and later blasted an exquisite backhand passing shot to send the first set to a tiebreak.

In the breaker, Alcaraz rallied from a 5-3 deficit and won it when Hurkacz's volley found the net, leading the hard-hitting Pole to the throw his racket to the court in frustration.

Alcaraz saved two break points at 5-5 in the second set with help from a flurry of unforced errors by Hurkacz and in the second breaker, delivered yet another perfectly executed drop shot to set up match point.

He sealed the win when Hurkacz's stab volley went into the net to the delight of the crowd on a hot and humid night under the lights in Florida.

Alcaraz will face Ruud in the final after the Norwegian beat Cerundolo in their semi-final during the day.

Ruud converted a late breakpoint to capture the opening set after nerves appeared to come into play for world number 103 Cerundolo, who was featured in his first Masters 1000 tournament main draw.

Ruud, who like the Argentine is 23, fended off four break points early in the second set and broke Cerundolo with a drop shot for a 3-1 lead he would not relinquish.

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Ruud thumped his sixth ace on match point to reach his first final at a Masters 1000 event.

"It was quite a tough match even though the scoreline said two straight sets," said Ruud, who was known as a clay court specialist before excelling on hard courts this year.

"It was a physical match. The conditions here were very, very humid today. I was lucky I was able to pull through and didn't need to play a third set."

Despite the loss, the tournament was a breakthrough for Cerundolo, who is projected to rise to world number 51 when new rankings are released next week.

Spanish teenager Carlos Alcaraz continued his sensational play on Friday to beat defending champion Hubert Hurkacz 7-6(5) 7-6(2) and set up a Miami Open final against Casper Ruud, who ended the dream run of Francisco Cerundolo with a 6-4 6-1 win earlier.

Spanish teenager Carlos Alcaraz continued his sensational play on Friday to beat defending champion Hubert Hurkacz 7-6(5) 7-6(2) and set up a Miami Open final against Casper Ruud, who ended the dream run of Francisco Cerundolo with a 6-4 6-1 win earlier. For the second night Alcaraz electrified the fans at Hard Rock Stadium with his feisty and fearless play and the 18-year-old will now look to become the tournament's youngest-ever champion on Sunday against world number eight Ruud. "I will try to play like it's the first round to mask the nerves," said Alcaraz, who beat Ruud in straight sets in their only previous meeting in Marbella, Spain, last year. "I think I'm going to enjoy it and it will be a great final." ALSO READ: Australian tennis player Nick Kyrgios fined $35,000 for Miami Open violations In the first set, Alcaraz erased a breakpoint while trailing 3-4 with one of his trademark drop shots and later blasted an exquisite backhand passing shot to send the first set to a tiebreak. In the breaker, Alcaraz rallied from a 5-3 deficit and won it when Hurkacz's volley found the net, leading the hard-hitting Pole to the throw his racket to the court in frustration. Alcaraz saved two break points at 5-5 in the second set with help from a flurry of unforced errors by Hurkacz and in the second breaker, delivered yet another perfectly executed drop shot to set up match point. He sealed the win when Hurkacz's stab volley went into the net to the delight of the crowd on a hot and humid night under the lights in Florida. Alcaraz will face Ruud in the final after the Norwegian beat Cerundolo in their semi-final during the day. Ruud converted a late breakpoint to capture the opening set after nerves appeared to come into play for world number 103 Cerundolo, who was featured in his first Masters 1000 tournament main draw. Ruud, who like the Argentine is 23, fended off four break points early in the second set and broke Cerundolo with a drop shot for a 3-1 lead he would not relinquish. ALSO READ: Miami Open: Iga Swiatek runs down Petra Kvitova to enter semis, Casper Ruud stuns Alexander Zverev Ruud thumped his sixth ace on match point to reach his first final at a Masters 1000 event. "It was quite a tough match even though the scoreline said two straight sets," said Ruud, who was known as a clay court specialist before excelling on hard courts this year. "It was a physical match. The conditions here were very, very humid today. I was lucky I was able to pull through and didn't need to play a third set." Despite the loss, the tournament was a breakthrough for Cerundolo, who is projected to rise to world number 51 when new rankings are released next week.

Miami Open: Spanish teenager Carlos Alcaraz defeats defending champion Hubert Hurkacz, to face Ruud in final

As Australia and England prepare to clash in the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup final at the Hagley Oval on Sunday, it's indeed an irony that despite having won 10 of the previous 11 World Cups between them, the two sides will face off in the title round for the first time in 34 years. 
 
Australia have won six World Cups, while England have bagged four, and the two teams have a lot at stake, given that the Meg Lanning-led side would be in search of a record-extending seventh title, while England will look to defend their crown they won in 2017 at Lord's, defeating India. 
 
Australia have lost only one World Cup final. Back in 2000, at the Bert Sutcliffe Oval in Lincoln, hosts New Zealand defeated Australia by just four runs in one of the closest final encounters the tournament has ever seen. 
 
That year, England recorded their worst-ever World Cup finish of fifth before fighting back to take the trophy from Australia in 2009. That same year, England also claimed their first, and only, T20 World Cup as well as an Ashes victory.

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It is something that Australia are hoping to match 13 years later, as they already hold the T20 trophy having secured that on home soil in 2020 before the Ashes were sealed with two games to spare in February, but the one-day World Cup evades them. 
 
Australian vice-captain Rachael Haynes already has a winner's medal from 2013, and she is well on her way to a competition record -- the opening batter sits on 429 runs for the tournament, 27 behind Debbie Hockley of New Zealand`s all-time best set in 1997. 
 
That is not the only record that could be broken in the final. England cricketer Sophie Ecclestone has the chance to surpass Australian Lyn Fullston, whose haul of 23 wickets in 1982 remains the mark to beat. 
 
Ecclestone sits on 20 wickets having taken her maiden international five-wicket haul in the semifinal against South Africa ending on 6/36, the best figures by an England bowler in a World Cup. 
 
The left-arm spinner is emblematic of England`s journey in the World Cup, where she and her team didn't quite make an impact at the start but have peaked at exactly the right time. The 22-year-old started with her worst-ever figures in ODIs with none for 77 against Australia in the group stage, while England were on the verge of elimination after losing three games. 
 
Defeats to Australia, West Indies and South Africa saw England down and out, leaving the defending champions reeling, but wins against India, New Zealand, Pakistan and Bangladesh helped them book their place in the knockouts and set up a rematch of the 2017 semifinal with South Africa. 
 
England saw off the Proteas with ease to keep their hopes of a fifth title alive, and Ecclestone praised captain Heather Knight's leadership as she guided her side back from the brink.

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"Obviously we didn't start off great, I think the three from three losses wasn't great but to come back the way we have. I think Heather's a big part of this group and what we've achieved, so hopefully we can go out there on Sunday and do it for Heather," said Ecclestone. 
 
Knight has the chance to make history as the first England captain to guide her side to back-to-back titles, that day at Lord's in 2017 is still fresh in their minds. However, Australia's memories of five years ago are morale shattering. 
 
Meg Lanning's side was knocked out of the semifinal by the batting brilliance from India's Harmanpreet Kaur. And for fast bowler Megan Schutt, that result has led Australia to make a massive overhaul in terms of tactics. 
 
"That was a very long time ago. We're a very different team and when I see photos from the 11 that were on that field, it's almost a 180 flip. What that brought was a form of professionalism and accountability that we didn't have back then and now we have plans A through to F and that was the kick up the butt that we needed. As much as we can talk about that being a failure and whatnot, that actually created a really good dynasty for us and it`s nice five years later to finally be in a final," said Schutt.

As Australia and England prepare to clash in the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup final at the Hagley Oval on Sunday, it's indeed an irony that despite having won 10 of the previous 11 World Cups between them, the two sides will face off in the title round for the first time in 34 years.

As Australia and England prepare to clash in the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup final at the Hagley Oval on Sunday, it's indeed an irony that despite having won 10 of the previous 11 World Cups between them, the two sides will face off in the title round for the first time in 34 years. Australia have won six World Cups, while England have bagged four, and the two teams have a lot at stake, given that the Meg Lanning-led side would be in search of a record-extending seventh title, while England will look to defend their crown they won in 2017 at Lord's, defeating India. Australia have lost only one World Cup final. Back in 2000, at the Bert Sutcliffe Oval in Lincoln, hosts New Zealand defeated Australia by just four runs in one of the closest final encounters the tournament has ever seen. That year, England recorded their worst-ever World Cup finish of fifth before fighting back to take the trophy from Australia in 2009. That same year, England also claimed their first, and only, T20 World Cup as well as an Ashes victory. ALSO READ: India PM Narendra Modi extends best wishes to Team Australia for ICC Women's World Cup final It is something that Australia are hoping to match 13 years later, as they already hold the T20 trophy having secured that on home soil in 2020 before the Ashes were sealed with two games to spare in February, but the one-day World Cup evades them. Australian vice-captain Rachael Haynes already has a winner's medal from 2013, and she is well on her way to a competition record -- the opening batter sits on 429 runs for the tournament, 27 behind Debbie Hockley of New Zealand`s all-time best set in 1997. That is not the only record that could be broken in the final. England cricketer Sophie Ecclestone has the chance to surpass Australian Lyn Fullston, whose haul of 23 wickets in 1982 remains the mark to beat. Ecclestone sits on 20 wickets having taken her maiden international five-wicket haul in the semifinal against South Africa ending on 6/36, the best figures by an England bowler in a World Cup. The left-arm spinner is emblematic of England`s journey in the World Cup, where she and her team didn't quite make an impact at the start but have peaked at exactly the right time. The 22-year-old started with her worst-ever figures in ODIs with none for 77 against Australia in the group stage, while England were on the verge of elimination after losing three games. Defeats to Australia, West Indies and South Africa saw England down and out, leaving the defending champions reeling, but wins against India, New Zealand, Pakistan and Bangladesh helped them book their place in the knockouts and set up a rematch of the 2017 semifinal with South Africa. England saw off the Proteas with ease to keep their hopes of a fifth title alive, and Ecclestone praised captain Heather Knight's leadership as she guided her side back from the brink. ALSO READ: Yuvraj Singh recalls India's 2011 World Cup triumph: This was dream of billion Indians being fulfilled "Obviously we didn't start off great, I think the three from three losses wasn't great but to come back the way we have. I think Heather's a big part of this group and what we've achieved, so hopefully we can go out there on Sunday and do it for Heather," said Ecclestone. Knight has the chance to make history as the first England captain to guide her side to back-to-back titles, that day at Lord's in 2017 is still fresh in their minds. However, Australia's memories of five years ago are morale shattering. Meg Lanning's side was knocked out of the semifinal by the batting brilliance from India's Harmanpreet Kaur. And for fast bowler Megan Schutt, that result has led Australia to make a massive overhaul in terms of tactics. "That was a very long time ago. We're a very different team and when I see photos from the 11 that were on that field, it's almost a 180 flip. What that brought was a form of professionalism and accountability that we didn't have back then and now we have plans A through to F and that was the kick up the butt that we needed. As much as we can talk about that being a failure and whatnot, that actually created a really good dynasty for us and it`s nice five years later to finally be in a final," said Schutt.

Women's WC Final: England look for title defence as undefeated Australia gears up for seventh championship

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday extended good wishes to Team Australia, who will be playing in the final of the ongoing ICC Women's ODI World Cup.

PM Modi's statement came during the signing of a massive historic trade deal with Australia aiming to boost economic ties between the two countries.

"I would like to congratulate and wish all the best to Australia's women's team, who will be playing the final of ICC Women's ODI World Cup tomorrow," PM Modi said.

Despite having won 10 of the previous 11 World Cups between them, England and Australia will face off in an ICC Women's Cricket World Cup final for the first time in 34 years.

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The Hagley Oval in Christchurch will play host to the showpiece event of the 2022 tournament as Australia go in search of a record-extending seventh title, while England look to defend their crown.

The two sides started their campaigns together almost a month ago in Hamilton and will end them together, one holding the trophy, the other looking on.

Australia have lost only one World Cup final but it was not too far away from the setting for Sunday's finale.

Back in 2000, just down the road from Christchurch at the Bert Sutcliffe Oval in Lincoln, Australia lost the closest final the tournament has ever seen, defeated by New Zealand by just four runs.

That year, England recorded their worst-ever World Cup finish of fifth before fighting back to take the trophy from Australia in 2009.

In doing so, they would go on to have a remarkable year also claiming their first, and only, T20 World Cup as well as an Ashes victory.

It is something that Australia are hoping to match 13 years later, they already hold the T20 trophy having secured that on home soil in 2020 before the Ashes were wrapped up with two games to spare in February, but the one-day World Cup evades them.

Vice-captain Rachael Haynes already has a winner's medal from 2013, and she is well on her way to a competition record, the opening batter sits on 429 runs for the tournament, 27 behind Debbie Hockley of New Zealand's all-time best set in 1997.

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That is not the only record that could be broken on Sunday, Sophie Ecclestone has the chance to surpass Australian Lyn Fullston, whose haul of 23 wickets in 1982 remains the mark to beat.

Ecclestone sits on 20 wickets having taken her maiden international five-wicket haul in the semi-final against South Africa ending on six for 36, the best figures by an England bowler in a World Cup as the 2022 edition continues to be bigger and better than anything we have seen before.

The left-arm spinner is emblematic of England's journey throughout the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 2022 in that she is peaking at exactly the right time.

The 22-year-old started with her worst-ever figures in ODI cricket with no wicket for 77 against the same opponents she will face on Sunday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday extended good wishes to Team Australia, who will be playing in the final of the ongoing ICC Women's ODI World Cup. PM Modi's statement came during the signing of a massive historic trade deal with Australia aiming to boost economic ties between the two countries.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday extended good wishes to Team Australia, who will be playing in the final of the ongoing ICC Women's ODI World Cup. PM Modi's statement came during the signing of a massive historic trade deal with Australia aiming to boost economic ties between the two countries. "I would like to congratulate and wish all the best to Australia's women's team, who will be playing the final of ICC Women's ODI World Cup tomorrow," PM Modi said. Despite having won 10 of the previous 11 World Cups between them, England and Australia will face off in an ICC Women's Cricket World Cup final for the first time in 34 years. ALSO READ: WATCH: Commentators in splits as Babar Azam celebrates century while still on 99 in 2nd ODI vs Australia The Hagley Oval in Christchurch will play host to the showpiece event of the 2022 tournament as Australia go in search of a record-extending seventh title, while England look to defend their crown. The two sides started their campaigns together almost a month ago in Hamilton and will end them together, one holding the trophy, the other looking on. Australia have lost only one World Cup final but it was not too far away from the setting for Sunday's finale. Back in 2000, just down the road from Christchurch at the Bert Sutcliffe Oval in Lincoln, Australia lost the closest final the tournament has ever seen, defeated by New Zealand by just four runs. That year, England recorded their worst-ever World Cup finish of fifth before fighting back to take the trophy from Australia in 2009. In doing so, they would go on to have a remarkable year also claiming their first, and only, T20 World Cup as well as an Ashes victory. It is something that Australia are hoping to match 13 years later, they already hold the T20 trophy having secured that on home soil in 2020 before the Ashes were wrapped up with two games to spare in February, but the one-day World Cup evades them. Vice-captain Rachael Haynes already has a winner's medal from 2013, and she is well on her way to a competition record, the opening batter sits on 429 runs for the tournament, 27 behind Debbie Hockley of New Zealand's all-time best set in 1997. ALSO READ: MI vs RR, IPL 2022 prediction today: Who will win Mumbai Indians vs Rajasthan Royals match That is not the only record that could be broken on Sunday, Sophie Ecclestone has the chance to surpass Australian Lyn Fullston, whose haul of 23 wickets in 1982 remains the mark to beat. Ecclestone sits on 20 wickets having taken her maiden international five-wicket haul in the semi-final against South Africa ending on six for 36, the best figures by an England bowler in a World Cup as the 2022 edition continues to be bigger and better than anything we have seen before. The left-arm spinner is emblematic of England's journey throughout the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 2022 in that she is peaking at exactly the right time. The 22-year-old started with her worst-ever figures in ODI cricket with no wicket for 77 against the same opponents she will face on Sunday.

India PM Narendra Modi extends best wishes to Team Australia for ICC Women's World Cup final

Danni Wyatt scored her second one-day international century and Sophie Ecclestone took six wickets as champions England crushed South Africa by 137 runs on Thursday to set up a mouthwatering Women's World Cup final against heavyweights Australia.

Wyatt, dropped five times, punished South Africa with 129 off 125 balls to help England build an imposing 293 for eight at Christchurch's Hagley Oval. 
South Africa had won the toss and elected to field.

Ecclestone, the world's top-ranked spinner, celebrated a personal best 6-36 as South Africa collapsed to be all out for 156.

"Really pleased, that was a really complete performance from the girls today, something we’ve been searching for," England captain Heather Knight said.

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"I think we’ll go in as underdogs (against Australia) for sure but we’re all equal at the start of the game."

Having started the tournament with three straight defeats, England have rebounded with five wins.

Thursday's victory was their most complete performance of the tournament, with Sophia Dunkley chipping in 60 in a 116-run partnership with Wyatt for the fifth wicket.

The English may need to lift their game again, however, to beat undefeated Australia at the same venue on Sunday.

Meg Lanning's side thrashed West Indies in the other semi-final and have a chip on their shoulder after being knocked out of the 2017 semi-finals.

Australia are unlikely to reproduce South Africa's ragged fielding display, which saw Wyatt dropped on 22, 36, 77, 116 and 117 before she was finally caught by a scrambling Lizelle Lee after hitting Masabata Klaas to short third man.

By that time, England were well on the way to setting South Africa a would-be world record chase.

Seamer Anya Shrubsole, the hero of the 2017 World Cup final, quickly put South Africa on the back foot with a fine spell of swing bowling to remove Lee for two and the dangerous Laura Wolvaardt for a caught-and-bowled duck.

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Kate Cross and Charlie Dean took a wicket each to leave South Africa teetering at 67 for four before Ecclestone grabbed the remaining wickets to wrap up the match early.

Australia and England have won all of the 50-over World Cups barring New Zealand's sole triumph in 2000 on home soil.

Three-times semi-finalists South Africa missed out on a maiden final again but captain Sune Luus said her team had a "great World Cup".

"Don't think we had our best fielding performance (today)," she said.

"I just think we needed to be clinical today and we weren’t."

Danni Wyatt scored her second one-day international century and Sophie Ecclestone took six wickets as champions England crushed South Africa by 137 runs on Thursday to set up a mouthwatering Women's World Cup final against heavyweights Australia.

Danni Wyatt scored her second one-day international century and Sophie Ecclestone took six wickets as champions England crushed South Africa by 137 runs on Thursday to set up a mouthwatering Women's World Cup final against heavyweights Australia. Wyatt, dropped five times, punished South Africa with 129 off 125 balls to help England build an imposing 293 for eight at Christchurch's Hagley Oval. South Africa had won the toss and elected to field. Ecclestone, the world's top-ranked spinner, celebrated a personal best 6-36 as South Africa collapsed to be all out for 156. "Really pleased, that was a really complete performance from the girls today, something we’ve been searching for," England captain Heather Knight said. ALSO READ: CSK vs LSG, IPL 2022 prediction today: Who will win Chennai Super Kings vs Lucknow Super Giants match? "I think we’ll go in as underdogs (against Australia) for sure but we’re all equal at the start of the game." Having started the tournament with three straight defeats, England have rebounded with five wins. Thursday's victory was their most complete performance of the tournament, with Sophia Dunkley chipping in 60 in a 116-run partnership with Wyatt for the fifth wicket. The English may need to lift their game again, however, to beat undefeated Australia at the same venue on Sunday. Meg Lanning's side thrashed West Indies in the other semi-final and have a chip on their shoulder after being knocked out of the 2017 semi-finals. Australia are unlikely to reproduce South Africa's ragged fielding display, which saw Wyatt dropped on 22, 36, 77, 116 and 117 before she was finally caught by a scrambling Lizelle Lee after hitting Masabata Klaas to short third man. By that time, England were well on the way to setting South Africa a would-be world record chase. Seamer Anya Shrubsole, the hero of the 2017 World Cup final, quickly put South Africa on the back foot with a fine spell of swing bowling to remove Lee for two and the dangerous Laura Wolvaardt for a caught-and-bowled duck. ALSO READ: Universe Boss' show not over yet! Chris Gayle kicks off preparations for IPL 2023 - see pic Kate Cross and Charlie Dean took a wicket each to leave South Africa teetering at 67 for four before Ecclestone grabbed the remaining wickets to wrap up the match early. Australia and England have won all of the 50-over World Cups barring New Zealand's sole triumph in 2000 on home soil. Three-times semi-finalists South Africa missed out on a maiden final again but captain Sune Luus said her team had a "great World Cup". "Don't think we had our best fielding performance (today)," she said. "I just think we needed to be clinical today and we weren’t."

Women's World Cup: England thrash South Africa by 137 runs to set up summit clash against Australia

A brilliant century from Alyssa Healy and an outstanding cameo from Rachael Haynes helped Australia defeat West Indies in the semi-finals by 158-run in the ongoing ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 2022 here at the Basin Reserve on Wednesday.

Healy smashed 129 from 107 balls and Haynes scored 85 from 100 deliveries putting on 216 runs for the opening wicket to help Australia amass 305/3 in a rain-curtailed match, which was reduced to 45 overs.

Chasing 306, skipper Stafanie Taylor (48) played a lone hand for West Indies, while Deandra Dottin and Hayley Matthews scored 34 runs each at the top of the order.

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But they received little support from others as Australia cruised home.

Experienced spinner Jess Jonassen bowled well to claim two wickets and five others picked up one scalp each, while Beth Mooney took the catch of the tournament to go with her unbeaten 43 with the bat.

Earlier, Healy and Haynes put on 216 runs for the opening wicket at an excellent clip as Australia amassed a huge score after being sent into bat first.

It was a scintillating partnership from Healy and Haynes, as the duo dined out on some poor West Indies bowling to put on the third-highest opening stand in Australia's WODI history.

Shamilia Connell finally got the breakthrough when she had Healy caught in the deep in the 33rd over.

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West Indies seamer Chinelle Henry also picked up Ash Gardner, promoted up the order to number three, in the same over to help reduce Australia to 236/3.

But Beth Mooney 43* and Meg Lanning 26* took the score past 300 and left West Indies with a mountain that was too difficult to climb as Australia moved through to the title decider with ease.

Brief score: Australia 305/3 (Alyssa Healy 129, Rachael Haynes 85; Chinelle Henry 2/51) vs West Indies 148/10 (Stafanie Taylor 48, Hayley Matthews 34; Jess Jonassen 2/14).

A brilliant century from Alyssa Healy and an outstanding cameo from Rachael Haynes helped Australia defeat West Indies in the semi-finals by 158-run in the ongoing ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 2022 here at the Basin Reserve on Wednesday.

A brilliant century from Alyssa Healy and an outstanding cameo from Rachael Haynes helped Australia defeat West Indies in the semi-finals by 158-run in the ongoing ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 2022 here at the Basin Reserve on Wednesday. Healy smashed 129 from 107 balls and Haynes scored 85 from 100 deliveries putting on 216 runs for the opening wicket to help Australia amass 305/3 in a rain-curtailed match, which was reduced to 45 overs. Chasing 306, skipper Stafanie Taylor (48) played a lone hand for West Indies, while Deandra Dottin and Hayley Matthews scored 34 runs each at the top of the order. ALSO READ: ICC planning to bring parity in prize money for men's and women's events, says CEO Geoff Allardice But they received little support from others as Australia cruised home. Experienced spinner Jess Jonassen bowled well to claim two wickets and five others picked up one scalp each, while Beth Mooney took the catch of the tournament to go with her unbeaten 43 with the bat. Earlier, Healy and Haynes put on 216 runs for the opening wicket at an excellent clip as Australia amassed a huge score after being sent into bat first. It was a scintillating partnership from Healy and Haynes, as the duo dined out on some poor West Indies bowling to put on the third-highest opening stand in Australia's WODI history. Shamilia Connell finally got the breakthrough when she had Healy caught in the deep in the 33rd over. ALSO READ: Women's ODI Rankings: Laura Wolvaardt become No.1 batter after World Cup heroics, Mithali Raj rises to 6th West Indies seamer Chinelle Henry also picked up Ash Gardner, promoted up the order to number three, in the same over to help reduce Australia to 236/3. But Beth Mooney 43* and Meg Lanning 26* took the score past 300 and left West Indies with a mountain that was too difficult to climb as Australia moved through to the title decider with ease. Brief score: Australia 305/3 (Alyssa Healy 129, Rachael Haynes 85; Chinelle Henry 2/51) vs West Indies 148/10 (Stafanie Taylor 48, Hayley Matthews 34; Jess Jonassen 2/14).

Women's World Cup: Healy, Haynes star as dominant Australia thrash West Indies by 157 runs to enter final

India's ace shuttler PV Sindhu on Saturday entered the women's singles final of the Swiss Open 2022 at St. Jakobshalle here.

Playing at court 1, Sindhu defeated Thailand's Supanida Katethong 21-18, 15-21, 21-19, in the semi-final match that lasted for 79 minutes.

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Apart from Sindhu, shuttler HS Prannoy also made his place in the finals of the tournament after winning against Indonesia's Anthony Sinisuka Ginting 21-19, 19-21, 21-18 in the match that lasted for 72 minutes.

Later in the day, shuttler Kidmabi Srikanth will face Indonesia's Jonatan Christie in another men's singles semi-final clash.

India's ace shuttler PV Sindhu on Saturday entered the women's singles final of the Swiss Open 2022 at St. Jakobshalle here. Playing at court 1, Sindhu defeated Thailand's Supanida Katethong 21-18, 15-21, 21-19, in the semi-final match that lasted for 79 minutes.

India's ace shuttler PV Sindhu on Saturday entered the women's singles final of the Swiss Open 2022 at St. Jakobshalle here. Playing at court 1, Sindhu defeated Thailand's Supanida Katethong 21-18, 15-21, 21-19, in the semi-final match that lasted for 79 minutes. ALSO READ: Swiss Open: Kidambi Srikanth beats Denmark's Anders Antonsen to enter men's singles semi-final Apart from Sindhu, shuttler HS Prannoy also made his place in the finals of the tournament after winning against Indonesia's Anthony Sinisuka Ginting 21-19, 19-21, 21-18 in the match that lasted for 72 minutes. Later in the day, shuttler Kidmabi Srikanth will face Indonesia's Jonatan Christie in another men's singles semi-final clash.

Swiss Open: Double Olympic medallist PV Sindhu defeats Supanida Katethong to enter women's singles final

Continuing his impressive run, India's H S Prannoy stormed into the men's singles final at the Swiss Open Super 300 badminton tournament with a hard-fought win over Indonesia's world number 5 Anthony Sinisuka Ginting here on Saturday.

The 29-year-old eked out a 21-19 19-21 21-18 win over Ginting in a thrilling semifinal that lasted an hour and 11 minutes.

It was Prannoy's first final in five years, having won the US Open in 2017.

He will take on either compatriot Kidambi Srikanth or Indonesia's Jonatan Christie in the summit clash on Sunday.

A former top 10 player, Prannoy came into the match with a 1-1 head-to-head count against Ginting, who is currently ranked 21 places higher than him at world no. 5.

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The Indian looked in good touch as he grabbed the initiative early and held a 6-3 lead which was quickly erased by Ginting to move to a 12-19 advantage at one stage.

A five-point burst gave Prannoy a slender two-point lead and he maintained it till 18-16 before a net error and a service fault helped his rival to level par.

Ginting, however, went to net twice himself to hand over Prannoy a game point and the Indian sealed it with a precise return on his rival's front court.

After a tight battle in the second game, it was Ginting who grabbed a three-point lead at the interval following a couple of errors from the Indian at the net and front court.

Prannoy tried to send his rival to the corners with his diagonal shots but Ginting responded with a body return. The duo tried to go close to the lines and force errors on one another.

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The Indian fought his way back to 18-19 but a judgement error at the backline gave one game point to Ginting, who squandered one with a net error before Prannoy smashed out to allow his rival to make a comeback.

In the decider, Prannoy took a 8-5 lead and went into the break with a three-point advantage after Ginting's backhand return went to net.

The Indian increased his lead to 14-8 but he stumbled to a series of errors to allow Ginting make it 15-19.

Prannoy unleashed a smash to grab four match points. He squandered two before entering the finals with another precise return.

Continuing his impressive run, India's H S Prannoy stormed into the men's singles final at the Swiss Open Super 300 badminton tournament with a hard-fought win over Indonesia's world number 5 Anthony Sinisuka Ginting here on Saturday.

Continuing his impressive run, India's H S Prannoy stormed into the men's singles final at the Swiss Open Super 300 badminton tournament with a hard-fought win over Indonesia's world number 5 Anthony Sinisuka Ginting here on Saturday. The 29-year-old eked out a 21-19 19-21 21-18 win over Ginting in a thrilling semifinal that lasted an hour and 11 minutes. It was Prannoy's first final in five years, having won the US Open in 2017. He will take on either compatriot Kidambi Srikanth or Indonesia's Jonatan Christie in the summit clash on Sunday. A former top 10 player, Prannoy came into the match with a 1-1 head-to-head count against Ginting, who is currently ranked 21 places higher than him at world no. 5. ALSO READ: Iga Swiatek set to become Poland's first World No. 1 in tennis history after win against Golubic in Miami Open The Indian looked in good touch as he grabbed the initiative early and held a 6-3 lead which was quickly erased by Ginting to move to a 12-19 advantage at one stage. A five-point burst gave Prannoy a slender two-point lead and he maintained it till 18-16 before a net error and a service fault helped his rival to level par. Ginting, however, went to net twice himself to hand over Prannoy a game point and the Indian sealed it with a precise return on his rival's front court. After a tight battle in the second game, it was Ginting who grabbed a three-point lead at the interval following a couple of errors from the Indian at the net and front court. Prannoy tried to send his rival to the corners with his diagonal shots but Ginting responded with a body return. The duo tried to go close to the lines and force errors on one another. ALSO READ: BWF imposes three-month ban to four Chinese men's doubles players for 'failing to use best efforts to win' The Indian fought his way back to 18-19 but a judgement error at the backline gave one game point to Ginting, who squandered one with a net error before Prannoy smashed out to allow his rival to make a comeback. In the decider, Prannoy took a 8-5 lead and went into the break with a three-point advantage after Ginting's backhand return went to net. The Indian increased his lead to 14-8 but he stumbled to a series of errors to allow Ginting make it 15-19. Prannoy unleashed a smash to grab four match points. He squandered two before entering the finals with another precise return.

Swiss Open: H S Prannoy beats Indonesia's Anthony Sinisuka Ginting to enter men's singles final

As teams are being rushed to the site where a China Eastern Airlines plane crashed in China's Guangxi region, several videos have emerged on social media showing the final minutes of the plane crash.

According to officials, the passenger jet carrying 132 people crashed onto a mountainside shortly after losing contact with air traffic control.

It is being said that the plane dropped thousands of metres in just three minutes. The flight-tracking ended at 2.22 pm at an altitude of 3,225 feet.

The footage showed thick black fumes of smoke billowing out of the mountain soon after the plane raced vertically towards the ground in the moments before the crash.

According to reports, the plane crashed in Teng county near Wuzhou and caused a mountain fire. Rescue workers have found no signs of any survivors.

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Final seconds of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MU5735?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MU5735</a> <a href="https://t.co/gCoMX1iMDL">pic.twitter.com/gCoMX1iMDL</a>
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A villager was quoted by AFP as saying that the plane had "completely fallen apart" and he had seen nearby forest areas destroyed by a fire.

President Xi Jinping said that he was 'shocked' by the incident and immediately ordered an investigation into the cause.

"We are shocked to learn of the China Eastern MU5735 accident," state broadcaster CCTV reported Xi saying, while he also called for "all efforts" towards the rescue and to find out the "cause of the accident as soon as possible".

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The plane, flight number MU5735 from Kunming to Guangzhou, is believed to be a&nbsp;Boeing 737-89P, which is not part of the MAX series that has reported numerous technical faults in recent years.

(With inputs from agencies)

As teams are being rushed to the site where a China Eastern Airlines plane crashed in China's Guangxi region, several videos have emerged on social media showing the final minutes of the plane crash.

As teams are being rushed to the site where a China Eastern Airlines plane crashed in China's Guangxi region, several videos have emerged on social media showing the final minutes of the plane crash. According to officials, the passenger jet carrying 132 people crashed onto a mountainside shortly after losing contact with air traffic control. It is being said that the plane dropped thousands of metres in just three minutes. The flight-tracking ended at 2.22 pm at an altitude of 3,225 feet. The footage showed thick black fumes of smoke billowing out of the mountain soon after the plane raced vertically towards the ground in the moments before the crash. According to reports, the plane crashed in Teng county near Wuzhou and caused a mountain fire. Rescue workers have found no signs of any survivors. Final seconds of #MU5735 pic.twitter.com/gCoMX1iMDL — ChinaAviationReview (@ChinaAvReview) March 21, 2022 × A villager was quoted by AFP as saying that the plane had "completely fallen apart" and he had seen nearby forest areas destroyed by a fire. President Xi Jinping said that he was 'shocked' by the incident and immediately ordered an investigation into the cause. "We are shocked to learn of the China Eastern MU5735 accident," state broadcaster CCTV reported Xi saying, while he also called for "all efforts" towards the rescue and to find out the "cause of the accident as soon as possible". Dash cam footage pic.twitter.com/w8iOzHblXE — ChinaAviationReview (@ChinaAvReview) March 21, 2022 × The plane, flight number MU5735 from Kunming to Guangzhou, is believed to be a Boeing 737-89P, which is not part of the MAX series that has reported numerous technical faults in recent years. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Final moments of China plane caught on camera just before crash

World No.4 Rafael Nadal's unbeaten streak of 20 matches in the year 2022 came to an end as the 21-time grand slam champion lost to local lad Taylor Fritz 3-6 6-7 (5-7) in the final here at the Indian Wells.

The 35-year-old Spaniard looked a pale shadow of his own self as he was quickly 0-4 down before leaving the court for treatment.

After the treatment, he looked much better but could not save the opening set as the Californian lad pocketed it 6-3 to go one set-up.

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In the second set, the reigning Australian Open champion had two break points at 5-5 but the American Taylor Fritz fought his way back to make win the tie-breaker as well as the match in straight sets.

In this match, Nadal made 34 unforced errors as compared to 22 from Fritz.

Taylor Fritz becomes the first American to win at Indian Wells since Andre Agassi in 2001.

Fritz was also the first American to reach the final of the event since John Isner in 2012.

World No.4 Rafael Nadal's unbeaten streak of 20 matches in the year 2022 came to an end as the 21-time grand slam champion lost to local lad Taylor Fritz 3-6 6-7 (5-7) in the final here at the Indian Wells.

World No.4 Rafael Nadal's unbeaten streak of 20 matches in the year 2022 came to an end as the 21-time grand slam champion lost to local lad Taylor Fritz 3-6 6-7 (5-7) in the final here at the Indian Wells. The 35-year-old Spaniard looked a pale shadow of his own self as he was quickly 0-4 down before leaving the court for treatment. After the treatment, he looked much better but could not save the opening set as the Californian lad pocketed it 6-3 to go one set-up. ALSO READ: Indian Wells: USA's Jack Sock, John Isner win men's doubles crown, claim their second title together In the second set, the reigning Australian Open champion had two break points at 5-5 but the American Taylor Fritz fought his way back to make win the tie-breaker as well as the match in straight sets. In this match, Nadal made 34 unforced errors as compared to 22 from Fritz. Taylor Fritz becomes the first American to win at Indian Wells since Andre Agassi in 2001. Fritz was also the first American to reach the final of the event since John Isner in 2012.

Indian Wells: Taylor Fritz ends Rafael Nadal's 20-match unbeaten streak in 2022 to secure men's singles title

Goalkeeper Laxmikant Kattimani made three stunning saves as Hyderabad FC clinched their maiden Indian Super League title after defeating Kerala Blasters in penalty shoot-out in the summit clash here on Sunday.

Hyderabad beat Kerala 3-1 in the shoot-out after the match ended 1-1 in the regulation and extra time.

For Hyderabad, Joao Victor, Khassa Camara and Halicharan Narzary scored while only Ayush Adhikari found the target in the shoot-out as Kerala suffered heart-break for the third time in the finals.

It was Kattimani's day as his heroics helped Kerala prevailed in the shoot-out. He saved the spot kicks from Mark Leskovic, Nishu Kumar and Jeakson Singh.

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As soon as Narzary's spot kick sent Kerala goalkeeper Prabhsukhan Gill the wrong way, the Hyderabad dug out and supporters at the stands erupted with joy while it was heartbreak for the passionate Kerala fans as spectators returned to the stadium to watch an ISL match after two years.

Earlier in the match, 22-year-old Rahul KP's goal in the 68th minute put Kerala ahead, but Sahil Tavora equalised for Sahil Tavora with a stunning volley in the 88th minute.

There was not much to differentiate between the two teams till Rahul broke the deadlock in the 68th minute with a stunning right-footed shot from outside the box.

Rahul came charging towards the goal and struck a blinder of a shot, to which rival custodian Kattimani only got a hand before hitting the net.

Kerala must have thought they would lift their maiden ISL title but Tavora broke their hearts as he struck with a breath-taking right-footed volley from the edge of the box with just two minutes left for the final whistle.

The two sides failed to produce a winner in the extra-time as the game went to penalty shoot-out.

Hyderabad midfielder Souvik Chakrabarti had a shot early in the match but Kerala goalie Prabhsukhan Singh Gill was upto the task to deal with it.

In the 14th minute, Harmanjot Khabra whipped a cross for striker Jorge Diaz, who was free inside the box, but the Argentine could not connect it.

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In the 23rd minute, Lalthathanga Khawlhring got the ball on the left-flank, skipped past Chakrabarti and passed it to Alvaro Vazquez, but the Hyderabad defenders did it well to not let the ball sneak behind the backline.

Kerala skipper Luna attempted a dipping shot from outside the box in the 30th minute but rival custodian Laximikanth Kattimani collected it with ease.

Hyderabad had a chance to score when Javier Sivero, who replaced Joel Chianese, headed on target from a free-kick, but Gill made a wonderful save before Thounaojam Jeakson cleared the ball for the corner even as both the sides were locked 0-0 at half-time.

After the change of ends, Hyderabad started on the front foot and had a couple of chances in quick succession.

Goalkeeper Laxmikant Kattimani made three stunning saves as Hyderabad FC clinched their maiden Indian Super League title after defeating Kerala Blasters in penalty shoot-out in the summit clash here on Sunday.

Goalkeeper Laxmikant Kattimani made three stunning saves as Hyderabad FC clinched their maiden Indian Super League title after defeating Kerala Blasters in penalty shoot-out in the summit clash here on Sunday. Hyderabad beat Kerala 3-1 in the shoot-out after the match ended 1-1 in the regulation and extra time. For Hyderabad, Joao Victor, Khassa Camara and Halicharan Narzary scored while only Ayush Adhikari found the target in the shoot-out as Kerala suffered heart-break for the third time in the finals. It was Kattimani's day as his heroics helped Kerala prevailed in the shoot-out. He saved the spot kicks from Mark Leskovic, Nishu Kumar and Jeakson Singh. ALSO READ: El Clasico: Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang scores twice as Barcelona hammer Real Madrid 4-0 in La Liga As soon as Narzary's spot kick sent Kerala goalkeeper Prabhsukhan Gill the wrong way, the Hyderabad dug out and supporters at the stands erupted with joy while it was heartbreak for the passionate Kerala fans as spectators returned to the stadium to watch an ISL match after two years. Earlier in the match, 22-year-old Rahul KP's goal in the 68th minute put Kerala ahead, but Sahil Tavora equalised for Sahil Tavora with a stunning volley in the 88th minute. There was not much to differentiate between the two teams till Rahul broke the deadlock in the 68th minute with a stunning right-footed shot from outside the box. Rahul came charging towards the goal and struck a blinder of a shot, to which rival custodian Kattimani only got a hand before hitting the net. Kerala must have thought they would lift their maiden ISL title but Tavora broke their hearts as he struck with a breath-taking right-footed volley from the edge of the box with just two minutes left for the final whistle. The two sides failed to produce a winner in the extra-time as the game went to penalty shoot-out. Hyderabad midfielder Souvik Chakrabarti had a shot early in the match but Kerala goalie Prabhsukhan Singh Gill was upto the task to deal with it. In the 14th minute, Harmanjot Khabra whipped a cross for striker Jorge Diaz, who was free inside the box, but the Argentine could not connect it. ALSO READ: League 1: Wissam Ben Yedder's brace helps Monaco thrash Paris St Germain 3-0 In the 23rd minute, Lalthathanga Khawlhring got the ball on the left-flank, skipped past Chakrabarti and passed it to Alvaro Vazquez, but the Hyderabad defenders did it well to not let the ball sneak behind the backline. Kerala skipper Luna attempted a dipping shot from outside the box in the 30th minute but rival custodian Laximikanth Kattimani collected it with ease. Hyderabad had a chance to score when Javier Sivero, who replaced Joel Chianese, headed on target from a free-kick, but Gill made a wonderful save before Thounaojam Jeakson cleared the ball for the corner even as both the sides were locked 0-0 at half-time. After the change of ends, Hyderabad started on the front foot and had a couple of chances in quick succession.

ISL final 2022: Hyderabad FC hold nerve to clinch maiden title, beat Kerala Blasters on penalty shoot-out

World number four Iga Swiatek reached her first Indian Wells final on Friday after overpowering former champion Simona Halep 7-6(6) 6-4 in just under two hours.

Swiatek, the 2020 French Open champion, prevailed in a topsy-turvy first set, saving two set points and hitting 19 winners to Halep's five to close out the opener.

Halep swung the momentum back in her favour in the second set but was unable to fight past the 20-year-old Swiatek, who rallied from 4-2 down before winning 16 of the final 21 points to seal the semi-final result.

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After being pushed to three sets in her first three matches this week, Swiatek picked up her second straight-sets win in a row, following up her 6-1 6-0 dismissal of Madison Keys with victory over Halep.

The win means Swiatek has reached her second straight final, and extended her winning streak to 10 matches, having claimed the WTA 1000 title in Doha last month.

"It is insane, honestly," Swiatek said. "At the beginning of the tournament, I wouldn't even think of it, especially after winning in Doha... It's really over my expectations so I'm really happy.

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"In my previous matches against Simona, I always felt like I had nothing to lose because I was always not the favourite, but this one, I felt like my ranking is higher and obviously I've been playing well.

"It was stressful for sure but I wanted to fight until the end and be mentally stronger because Simona is a really strong player, mentally. She's not giving up so I wanted to do that better. I'm pretty proud that I did that."

Swiatek will face either sixth seed Maria Sakkari or reigning Indian Wells champion Paula Badosa, who will play their semi-final later on Friday.

World number four Iga Swiatek reached her first Indian Wells final on Friday after overpowering former champion Simona Halep 7-6(6) 6-4 in just under two hours. Swiatek, the 2020 French Open champion, prevailed in a topsy-turvy first set, saving two set points and hitting 19 winners to Halep's five to close out the opener.

World number four Iga Swiatek reached her first Indian Wells final on Friday after overpowering former champion Simona Halep 7-6(6) 6-4 in just under two hours. Swiatek, the 2020 French Open champion, prevailed in a topsy-turvy first set, saving two set points and hitting 19 winners to Halep's five to close out the opener. Halep swung the momentum back in her favour in the second set but was unable to fight past the 20-year-old Swiatek, who rallied from 4-2 down before winning 16 of the final 21 points to seal the semi-final result. ALSO READ: All England Open: Lakshya Sen and doubles pair of Gayatri Gopichand and Treesa Jolly advance to semis After being pushed to three sets in her first three matches this week, Swiatek picked up her second straight-sets win in a row, following up her 6-1 6-0 dismissal of Madison Keys with victory over Halep. The win means Swiatek has reached her second straight final, and extended her winning streak to 10 matches, having claimed the WTA 1000 title in Doha last month. "It is insane, honestly," Swiatek said. "At the beginning of the tournament, I wouldn't even think of it, especially after winning in Doha... It's really over my expectations so I'm really happy. ALSO READ: Roman Abramovich handed Chelsea director control of firm on day of Ukraine invasion "In my previous matches against Simona, I always felt like I had nothing to lose because I was always not the favourite, but this one, I felt like my ranking is higher and obviously I've been playing well. "It was stressful for sure but I wanted to fight until the end and be mentally stronger because Simona is a really strong player, mentally. She's not giving up so I wanted to do that better. I'm pretty proud that I did that." Swiatek will face either sixth seed Maria Sakkari or reigning Indian Wells champion Paula Badosa, who will play their semi-final later on Friday.

Indian Wells: World No. 4 Iga Swiatek beats Simona Halep to book final berth

The Indian Super League will have a new winner after Kerala Blasters go up against a resurgent Hyderabad FC in the final here on Sunday.

While it would be Hyderabad's maiden final appearance, Kerala Blasters will be competing in the final for the third time.

In 2014 and 2016, Kerala Blasters had made it to the finals, but on both occasions, they had lost to erstwhile ATK, and thus their dream of winning the coveted ISL Trophy remained unfulfilled.

Hyderabad FC qualified after a 3-2 win on aggregate over ATK Mohun Bagan despite losing the second leg of the semi-final 0-1. Hyderabad had won the first leg 3-1 through goals from Bartholomew Ogbeche, Yasir Mohammad, and Javier Siverio.

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On the other hand, Kerala Blasters FC entered the ISL final for the first time since 2016 after playing out a 1-1 draw with Jamshedpur FC and pipped the League Shield winners 2-1 on aggregate over double leg semi-finals. In the first leg, Sahal Abdul Samad scored the only goal in a 1-0 win for Kerala.

For Hyderabad, a lot would depend on how their star striker Bartholomew Ogbeche fares against the Kerala defence.

The 37-year-old Nigerian forward, who is the season's leading goal-scorer with 18 goals to his name from 19 matches, and is the highest goal-scorer in ISL history with 53 goals.

However, Ogbeche would need support from other strikers Javier Siverio, who has netted seven times this season and Joel Chianese (4 goals). 
Also the role of midfielder Joao Victor, the captain, who has five goals to his name would also be crucial.

Victor could serve as a key link between strikers and defence and with his prowess can turn the game on its head.

Hyderabad also possess an array of good mid-fielders including Aniket Jadhav, experienced Halicharan Narzary, Souvik Chakrabarti and they will have to play to perfection.

Hyderabad custodian Laxmikant Kattimani would be aiming to keep a clean-sheet.

Hyderabad also have 46 goals this season, the highest for any team, 10 more than their opponents Kerala Blasters and thus going into the final, they could have a slight upper hand.

Meanwhile, for Kerala their top goalscorer this season has been their star striker Jorge Pereyra Diaz (8 goals). And for them, the 31-year-old Argentine will have to be at his best and need to fire on all cylinders.

Also, Diaz coupled with Alvaro Vazquez form a lethal pair and the Hyderabad defence would indeed be vary of them.

In what comes as a major blow, Kerala are certain to miss the services of mid-fielder Sahal Abdul Samad through a thigh injury.

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A lot will depend on mid-field duo Lalthathanga Khawlhring and Ayush Adhikari, ably supported by Marko Leskovic and defensive partner Hormipam Ruivah, fresh off a national team call-up.

Also, this would be the first occasion since the outbreak of COVID-19, the fans would be in the stands cheering for favorite teams and a 100 per cent crowd has been allowed, so a ?sea of yellow' is expected to turn up at the venue.

Also, Indian football legend IM Vijayan, chief national coach Igor Stimac would be in attendance for the summit clash.

Match starts at 7.30 PM IST.

The Indian Super League will have a new winner after Kerala Blasters go up against a resurgent Hyderabad FC in the final here on Sunday. While it would be Hyderabad's maiden final appearance, Kerala Blasters will be competing in the final for the third time.

The Indian Super League will have a new winner after Kerala Blasters go up against a resurgent Hyderabad FC in the final here on Sunday. While it would be Hyderabad's maiden final appearance, Kerala Blasters will be competing in the final for the third time. In 2014 and 2016, Kerala Blasters had made it to the finals, but on both occasions, they had lost to erstwhile ATK, and thus their dream of winning the coveted ISL Trophy remained unfulfilled. Hyderabad FC qualified after a 3-2 win on aggregate over ATK Mohun Bagan despite losing the second leg of the semi-final 0-1. Hyderabad had won the first leg 3-1 through goals from Bartholomew Ogbeche, Yasir Mohammad, and Javier Siverio. ALSO READ: End of Roman Abramovich era! Three bids submitted for Chelsea as deadline passes On the other hand, Kerala Blasters FC entered the ISL final for the first time since 2016 after playing out a 1-1 draw with Jamshedpur FC and pipped the League Shield winners 2-1 on aggregate over double leg semi-finals. In the first leg, Sahal Abdul Samad scored the only goal in a 1-0 win for Kerala. For Hyderabad, a lot would depend on how their star striker Bartholomew Ogbeche fares against the Kerala defence. The 37-year-old Nigerian forward, who is the season's leading goal-scorer with 18 goals to his name from 19 matches, and is the highest goal-scorer in ISL history with 53 goals. However, Ogbeche would need support from other strikers Javier Siverio, who has netted seven times this season and Joel Chianese (4 goals). Also the role of midfielder Joao Victor, the captain, who has five goals to his name would also be crucial. Victor could serve as a key link between strikers and defence and with his prowess can turn the game on its head. Hyderabad also possess an array of good mid-fielders including Aniket Jadhav, experienced Halicharan Narzary, Souvik Chakrabarti and they will have to play to perfection. Hyderabad custodian Laxmikant Kattimani would be aiming to keep a clean-sheet. Hyderabad also have 46 goals this season, the highest for any team, 10 more than their opponents Kerala Blasters and thus going into the final, they could have a slight upper hand. Meanwhile, for Kerala their top goalscorer this season has been their star striker Jorge Pereyra Diaz (8 goals). And for them, the 31-year-old Argentine will have to be at his best and need to fire on all cylinders. Also, Diaz coupled with Alvaro Vazquez form a lethal pair and the Hyderabad defence would indeed be vary of them. In what comes as a major blow, Kerala are certain to miss the services of mid-fielder Sahal Abdul Samad through a thigh injury. ALSO READ: CAS upholds FIFA Council's decision to suspend all Russian teams and clubs A lot will depend on mid-field duo Lalthathanga Khawlhring and Ayush Adhikari, ably supported by Marko Leskovic and defensive partner Hormipam Ruivah, fresh off a national team call-up. Also, this would be the first occasion since the outbreak of COVID-19, the fans would be in the stands cheering for favorite teams and a 100 per cent crowd has been allowed, so a ?sea of yellow' is expected to turn up at the venue. Also, Indian football legend IM Vijayan, chief national coach Igor Stimac would be in attendance for the summit clash. Match starts at 7.30 PM IST.

ISL to have new winner as Kerala Blasters go up against Hyderabad FC in final

Despite their 0-1 loss to ATK Mohun Bagan in the second leg of the Hero Indian Super League semifinal, Hyderabad FC made history by qualifying for the final with a 3-2 victory on aggregate over two legs at the Athletic Stadium, here on Wednesday.

Roy Krishna scored in the 79th minute to give ATKMB a glimmer of hope and make for an end-to-end last ten minutes but in the end, it was not enough for the finalists of last season as the men in yellow booked a final date with Kerala Blasters at the PJN Stadium in Fatorda on Sunday.

In the first leg, Bartholomew Ogbeche, Yasir Mohammad and Javier Siverio netted for Hyderabad. 
 
Hyderabad head coach Manolo Marquez played the same team that won the first leg 3-1 while Juan Ferrando made a few changes to the ATKMB side from the last game with the ever-dependable centre-back Tiri being a forced one as he picked up an injury in the last game. Kiyan Nassiri -- who scored a memorable hat-trick in the Kolkata derby earlier this season -- got a start.

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ATKMB looked the likelier of the two teams to nod ahead in the opening exchanges, the Mariners needing two goals at least to make a comeback. 
 
Liston Colaco was proving to be a handful for the Hyderabad defenders as he time and again put Nim Dorjee Tamang to the sword with his jinking runs.

Colaco's industry could have paid dividends soon but the local boy curled his effort just wide of target after dribbling past a few Hyderabad shirts inside the box. Colaco then tried to set up Krishna with a similar run and delivery inside the box but Yasir Mohammad did well to keep the Fijian striker at bay. 
 
There was no stopping Colaco as he shimmied past a few defenders post the drinks break and took a swipe at goal only for Laxmikant Kattimani to pull off a stunning save with his outstretched leg.

At the other end, Aniket Jadhav spurned a gilt-edged chance to make it 4-1 on aggregate for Hyderabad from a Yasir ball, nodding a free header from five yards, wide.

The best chance of the half, though, fell to Hugo Boumous who could not stab home from handshaking distance after a pin-point Prabir Das cross set him up perfectly, the French-Moroccan sliding in to get a touch on the ball as well but only dragging his effort wide.

Just before halftime, Joni Kauko shot wide, to sum up ATKMB's half of missed opportunities. 
 
Hyderabad suffered a blow early on in the second half when Sauvik Chakrabarti had to come off due to an injury, Sahil Tavora replacing the midfielder.

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ATKMB kept piling on one attack after another as Hyderabad sat back and defended deep. Ferrando took off Sandesh Jhingan and threw in Manvir Singh, going all out in search of goals.

There were huge appeals for a penalty when Joni Kauko was brought down by Akash Mishra but replays showed he was tackled just outside the box. 
 
The goal came from a likely source for ATKMB as Colaco showed his magic again down the left flank, bursting down that side to cross from the byline at the far post where Krishna was on hand to slam home from close. 
 
ATKMB threw in the towel in the last ten minutes but it proved to be too tall an order for them in the end as they succumbed to a semifinal exit.

Despite their 0-1 loss to ATK Mohun Bagan in the second leg of the Hero Indian Super League semifinal, Hyderabad FC made history by qualifying for the final with a 3-2 victory on aggregate over two legs at the Athletic Stadium, here on Wednesday.

Despite their 0-1 loss to ATK Mohun Bagan in the second leg of the Hero Indian Super League semifinal, Hyderabad FC made history by qualifying for the final with a 3-2 victory on aggregate over two legs at the Athletic Stadium, here on Wednesday. Roy Krishna scored in the 79th minute to give ATKMB a glimmer of hope and make for an end-to-end last ten minutes but in the end, it was not enough for the finalists of last season as the men in yellow booked a final date with Kerala Blasters at the PJN Stadium in Fatorda on Sunday. In the first leg, Bartholomew Ogbeche, Yasir Mohammad and Javier Siverio netted for Hyderabad. Hyderabad head coach Manolo Marquez played the same team that won the first leg 3-1 while Juan Ferrando made a few changes to the ATKMB side from the last game with the ever-dependable centre-back Tiri being a forced one as he picked up an injury in the last game. Kiyan Nassiri -- who scored a memorable hat-trick in the Kolkata derby earlier this season -- got a start. ALSO READ: Champions League: Villarreal knock Juventus out with 3-0 victory to enter quarter-finals ATKMB looked the likelier of the two teams to nod ahead in the opening exchanges, the Mariners needing two goals at least to make a comeback. Liston Colaco was proving to be a handful for the Hyderabad defenders as he time and again put Nim Dorjee Tamang to the sword with his jinking runs. Colaco's industry could have paid dividends soon but the local boy curled his effort just wide of target after dribbling past a few Hyderabad shirts inside the box. Colaco then tried to set up Krishna with a similar run and delivery inside the box but Yasir Mohammad did well to keep the Fijian striker at bay. There was no stopping Colaco as he shimmied past a few defenders post the drinks break and took a swipe at goal only for Laxmikant Kattimani to pull off a stunning save with his outstretched leg. At the other end, Aniket Jadhav spurned a gilt-edged chance to make it 4-1 on aggregate for Hyderabad from a Yasir ball, nodding a free header from five yards, wide. The best chance of the half, though, fell to Hugo Boumous who could not stab home from handshaking distance after a pin-point Prabir Das cross set him up perfectly, the French-Moroccan sliding in to get a touch on the ball as well but only dragging his effort wide. Just before halftime, Joni Kauko shot wide, to sum up ATKMB's half of missed opportunities. Hyderabad suffered a blow early on in the second half when Sauvik Chakrabarti had to come off due to an injury, Sahil Tavora replacing the midfielder. ALSO READ: Real Madrid to donate one million euros to help displaced in Ukraine amid Russia's invasion ATKMB kept piling on one attack after another as Hyderabad sat back and defended deep. Ferrando took off Sandesh Jhingan and threw in Manvir Singh, going all out in search of goals. There were huge appeals for a penalty when Joni Kauko was brought down by Akash Mishra but replays showed he was tackled just outside the box. The goal came from a likely source for ATKMB as Colaco showed his magic again down the left flank, bursting down that side to cross from the byline at the far post where Krishna was on hand to slam home from close. ATKMB threw in the towel in the last ten minutes but it proved to be too tall an order for them in the end as they succumbed to a semifinal exit.

ISL: Hyderabad book final date against Kerala with 3-2 aggregate win over ATK Mohun Bagan

World Championships bronze medallist Lakshya Sen stunned Olympic gold winner Viktor Axelsen in a hard-fought match to enter the final of German Open Super 300 tournament here on Saturday.

The 20-year-old Sen, who had claimed his maiden Super 500 title at the India Open in January, continued his rich vein of form as he sent the world No. 1 and top-seed Axelsen packing with a 21-13 12-21 22-20 win in the semi-final that lasted one hour and 10 minutes.

It was a memorable performance from the world No. 12 Indian as he recorded his first win over his highly-fancied rival who has a 4-0 head-to-head record before Saturday's match.

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In the final on Sunday, Sen will face Thailand's Kunlavut Vitidsarn who beat Lee Zii Jia of Malaysia in the other semi-final.

Sen was ahead throughout the first game that lasted 21 minutes. He did not give the Dane any chance to get ahead of him. Axelsen found it difficult to match Sen's pace in the first game.

Sen opened up with a 4-1 lead and then extended it to 9-4.

But Axelsen narrowed it down to 7-9 before Sen grabbed four consecutive points to make it 13-7.

Sen's attacking game paid dividends as he took five consecutive points to lead 18-10 before clinching the first game with ease. 
 
Axelsen made a comeback in the second game to make it one all and take the match to the decider.

He was trailing 3-8 early on but used his height and reach to good effect to take five consecutive points and level the score at 8-8 before zooming ahead.

From there on, Sen lost way and Axelsen pocketed the second game without any fuss.

The two players left their best for the last as they fought tooth and nail in the dramatic deciding game.

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It turned out to be a battle of nerves as rallies got longer with both fighting for each point. From 2-2, it was 4-4 and then 6-6 before Axelsen zoomed ahead 15-8.

But the young Indian fought his way back in a remarkable fashion to close the gap to 15-17 and then to 17-19. He levelled the score 19-19 and then 20-20 before sealing the match with two consecutive points.

In the quarterfinals, Sen had seen off fellow Indian and former top 10 player HS Prannoy 21-15 21-16.

World Championships bronze medallist Lakshya Sen stunned Olympic gold winner Viktor Axelsen in a hard-fought match to enter the final of German Open Super 300 tournament here on Saturday.

World Championships bronze medallist Lakshya Sen stunned Olympic gold winner Viktor Axelsen in a hard-fought match to enter the final of German Open Super 300 tournament here on Saturday. The 20-year-old Sen, who had claimed his maiden Super 500 title at the India Open in January, continued his rich vein of form as he sent the world No. 1 and top-seed Axelsen packing with a 21-13 12-21 22-20 win in the semi-final that lasted one hour and 10 minutes. It was a memorable performance from the world No. 12 Indian as he recorded his first win over his highly-fancied rival who has a 4-0 head-to-head record before Saturday's match. ALSO READ: Premier League: Cristiano Ronaldo's hat-trick helps Man United secure 3-2 win over Tottenham Hotspur In the final on Sunday, Sen will face Thailand's Kunlavut Vitidsarn who beat Lee Zii Jia of Malaysia in the other semi-final. Sen was ahead throughout the first game that lasted 21 minutes. He did not give the Dane any chance to get ahead of him. Axelsen found it difficult to match Sen's pace in the first game. Sen opened up with a 4-1 lead and then extended it to 9-4. But Axelsen narrowed it down to 7-9 before Sen grabbed four consecutive points to make it 13-7. Sen's attacking game paid dividends as he took five consecutive points to lead 18-10 before clinching the first game with ease. Axelsen made a comeback in the second game to make it one all and take the match to the decider. He was trailing 3-8 early on but used his height and reach to good effect to take five consecutive points and level the score at 8-8 before zooming ahead. From there on, Sen lost way and Axelsen pocketed the second game without any fuss. The two players left their best for the last as they fought tooth and nail in the dramatic deciding game. ALSO READ: Shreyas Iyer joins Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma in elite list with 92-run knock in pink-ball Test vs Sri Lanka It turned out to be a battle of nerves as rallies got longer with both fighting for each point. From 2-2, it was 4-4 and then 6-6 before Axelsen zoomed ahead 15-8. But the young Indian fought his way back in a remarkable fashion to close the gap to 15-17 and then to 17-19. He levelled the score 19-19 and then 20-20 before sealing the match with two consecutive points. In the quarterfinals, Sen had seen off fellow Indian and former top 10 player HS Prannoy 21-15 21-16.

Lakshya Sen stuns Olympic Champion Viktor Axelsen to enter German Open final

Diogo Jota may be available for Liverpool at Wembley but Roberto Firmino will miss the EFL Cup final on Sunday.

Injuries sustained during the 2-0 win over Internazionale at San Siro resulted in the two forwards being absent for the Reds'&nbsp;victories against Norwich City and Leeds United.

Both are making progress in their respective recoveries, though only Jota (ankle) has a chance of being part of Jurgen Klopp's squad to face Chelsea, with Firmino (muscle) further away from fitness."Bobby we have to see in the next two days.

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He is pushing himself really hard but he will not be available for the final, to reach the squad," Pepijn Lijnders told the media on Friday.

"We hope he will be back really soon because you all see and know and feel how important he is for our way of playing, so I am happy that he is pushing himself. Hopefully he is soon back.

"Jota, so far no reaction on the things he did, so the straight-line running, the changes of direction and the ball work he did, so that's a good sign. He isn't ruled out but still it will be a challenge."Lijnders reported no fresh injury concerns ahead of the final, which Caoimhin Kelleher will start.

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Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel, meanwhile, provided a positive bulletin on his squad during his pre-match press conference, with only Ben Chilwell definitely ruled out of Sunday's game.

Diogo Jota may be available for Liverpool at Wembley but Roberto Firmino will miss the EFL Cup final on Sunday. Injuries sustained during the 2-0 win over Internazionale at San Siro resulted in the two forwards being absent for the Reds' victories against Norwich City and Leeds United.

Diogo Jota may be available for Liverpool at Wembley but Roberto Firmino will miss the EFL Cup final on Sunday. Injuries sustained during the 2-0 win over Internazionale at San Siro resulted in the two forwards being absent for the Reds' victories against Norwich City and Leeds United. Both are making progress in their respective recoveries, though only Jota (ankle) has a chance of being part of Jurgen Klopp's squad to face Chelsea, with Firmino (muscle) further away from fitness."Bobby we have to see in the next two days. ALSO READ: Poland will not play World Cup qualifying match against Russia, says Polish FA head Cezary Kulesza He is pushing himself really hard but he will not be available for the final, to reach the squad," Pepijn Lijnders told the media on Friday. "We hope he will be back really soon because you all see and know and feel how important he is for our way of playing, so I am happy that he is pushing himself. Hopefully he is soon back. "Jota, so far no reaction on the things he did, so the straight-line running, the changes of direction and the ball work he did, so that's a good sign. He isn't ruled out but still it will be a challenge."Lijnders reported no fresh injury concerns ahead of the final, which Caoimhin Kelleher will start. ALSO READ: Manchester United withdraws Russian airline Aeroflot's sponsorship amid Ukraine crisis Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel, meanwhile, provided a positive bulletin on his squad during his pre-match press conference, with only Ben Chilwell definitely ruled out of Sunday's game.

Roberto Firmino set to miss EPL final against Chelsea, Diogo Jota's participation hangs in balance

WION's Sports editor Digvijay Singh Deo spoke to India's former national team coach Nandan Bal who is also chairman of selectors for the all India tennis association.

WION's Digvijay Singh Deo speaks to Nandan Bal on women's singles final of Australian Open 2022

As England and Italy squared off in the Euro 2020 final, thousands across the world watched anxiously.

The two teams were on the route to make history.

While England had never won a European Football Championship, Italy had won the title in the 1968 edition.

England's loss came as a shock to&nbsp;many. Off-field, some fans took it too far, hurling racist abuses at players from the team and assaulting their Italian counterparts.

Videos indicate fans tussling with one another, and taking on rival supporters.

And that was just the beginning. As shown in a clip, a person was even tossed into the river in London.

ALS0 READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/euro-2020-england-fans-created-mayhem-on-the-streets-of-london-and-outside-wembley-stadium-397537" hreflang="en">Euro 2020: England fans created mayhem on the streets of London and outside Wembley stadium</a>

While some punched one another, hurled abuses, Twitter posts showed that others have taken to attacking Black players and fans in the city.

While it was not clear from the videos when precisely it was recorded, it showed fans outside an arena entrance, tossing things at the counter and shaking one another.&nbsp;

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So “football fans” are Attacking Black people on the street. Attacking England’s Black players. Attacking Italian fans. And the rates of domestic abuse increase by 38% when their team loses? This is why England football fans have the worst reputation. Mortifying and disgusting.⚽️
— Jameela Jamil 🌈 (@jameelajamil) <a href="https://twitter.com/jameelajamil/status/1414385347199344643?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 12, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Bukayo Saka, Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho have all been subjected to racial abuse following England’s loss in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EURO2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EURO2020</a> final. 
 
If you see racial abuse, report it. We are all in this together. <a href="https://t.co/L1KBf7lXKc">pic.twitter.com/L1KBf7lXKc</a>
— UtdDistrict (@UtdDistrict) <a href="https://twitter.com/UtdDistrict/status/1414362449101348864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 11, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Despite the COVID-19 outbreak, several restrictions seem to have been neglected.

Going by the visuals, masks were a scant item and social distancing was non-existent.

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Tonight's winner will undoubtedly be the Wembley variant <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Covid19UK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Covid19UK</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Euro2020Final?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Euro2020Final</a> <a href="https://t.co/QkrkeRndcQ">pic.twitter.com/QkrkeRndcQ</a>
— Seán MacGobhann (@SeanMacGobhann) <a href="https://twitter.com/SeanMacGobhann/status/1414262550548647939?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 11, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Other than fighting&nbsp;with Italian fans, the English fans additionally flung bigoted, racist abuses online against Black players who missed penalties for England in the European Championship shootout.

Many fans took to Instagram to leave monkey emoticons on posts by Bukayo Saka, Marcus Rashford, and Jadon Sancho after they missed penalties during the game.

Others left abusive remarks on their Instagram posts.&nbsp;

This provoked the English Football Association to give an assertion censuring the language used against the players.&nbsp;

The FA said&nbsp;it was "appalled by the online racism that has been aimed at some of our England players on social media."

"We could not be clearer that anyone behind such disgusting behavior is not welcome in following the team. We will do all we can to support the players affected while urging the toughest punishments possible for anyone responsible," it said in a&nbsp;statement.

As England and Italy squared off in the Euro 2020 final, thousands across the world watched anxiously. The two teams were on the route to make history. While England had never won a European Football Championship, Italy had won the title in the 1968 edition.

As England and Italy squared off in the Euro 2020 final, thousands across the world watched anxiously. The two teams were on the route to make history. While England had never won a European Football Championship, Italy had won the title in the 1968 edition. England's loss came as a shock to many. Off-field, some fans took it too far, hurling racist abuses at players from the team and assaulting their Italian counterparts. Videos indicate fans tussling with one another, and taking on rival supporters. And that was just the beginning. As shown in a clip, a person was even tossed into the river in London. ALS0 READ: Euro 2020: England fans created mayhem on the streets of London and outside Wembley stadium While some punched one another, hurled abuses, Twitter posts showed that others have taken to attacking Black players and fans in the city. While it was not clear from the videos when precisely it was recorded, it showed fans outside an arena entrance, tossing things at the counter and shaking one another. So “football fans” are Attacking Black people on the street. Attacking England’s Black players. Attacking Italian fans. And the rates of domestic abuse increase by 38% when their team loses? This is why England football fans have the worst reputation. Mortifying and disgusting.⚽️ — Jameela Jamil 🌈 (@jameelajamil) July 12, 2021 × Bukayo Saka, Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho have all been subjected to racial abuse following England’s loss in the #EURO2020 final. If you see racial abuse, report it. We are all in this together. pic.twitter.com/L1KBf7lXKc — UtdDistrict (@UtdDistrict) July 11, 2021 × Despite the COVID-19 outbreak, several restrictions seem to have been neglected. Going by the visuals, masks were a scant item and social distancing was non-existent. Tonight's winner will undoubtedly be the Wembley variant #Covid19UK #Euro2020Final pic.twitter.com/QkrkeRndcQ — Seán MacGobhann (@SeanMacGobhann) July 11, 2021 × Other than fighting with Italian fans, the English fans additionally flung bigoted, racist abuses online against Black players who missed penalties for England in the European Championship shootout. Many fans took to Instagram to leave monkey emoticons on posts by Bukayo Saka, Marcus Rashford, and Jadon Sancho after they missed penalties during the game. Others left abusive remarks on their Instagram posts. This provoked the English Football Association to give an assertion censuring the language used against the players. The FA said it was "appalled by the online racism that has been aimed at some of our England players on social media." "We could not be clearer that anyone behind such disgusting behavior is not welcome in following the team. We will do all we can to support the players affected while urging the toughest punishments possible for anyone responsible," it said in a statement.

Euro 2020: Furious English fans hurl racist abuses at players after team lose final

Italy's failure to qualify for the 2018 World Cup caused heads to roll but the team looked rejuvenated under new boss Roberto Mancini. The Azzurri qualified with a perfect record in Group J, winning all 10 matches, scoring 37 goals and conceding only four. They finished the campaign with a 9-1 demolition of Armenia with seven different goal scorers.

<h3>GROUP STAGE</h3>

TURKEY 0-3 ITALY

Turkey were seen as dark horses at the tournament but after a goalless first half, the floodgates opened when an own goal gave Italy the impetus to pile on the pressure.

Ciro Immobile and Lorenzo Insigne also got on the scoresheet while at the back Giorgio Chiellini and Leonardo Bonucci were rarely troubled by Turkey's top scorer Burak Yilmaz.

ITALY 3-0 SWITZERLAND

Italy's strength was in their goals coming from multiple sources but little did Switzerland expect them to come from midfielder Manuel Locatelli who struck twice to add to his previous international tally of one goal.

Immobile scored again late on to give Italy back-to-back 3-0 wins as the Azzurri became the first team to qualify for the knockout stages.

ITALY 1-0 WALES

Mancini made eight changes but still managed to get all three points when midfielder Matteo Pessina scored from a set-piece in the first half in Rome. Italy also kept a clean sheet for an 11th consecutive match.

<h3>LAST 16</h3>

ITALY 2-1 AUSTRIA (AFTER EXTRA TIME)

Underdogs Austria were in the knockout stage for the first time at the Euros and they gave Italy a scare by with an effort that was ruled out by VAR before they forced extra time as the match ended 0-0 after 90 minutes.

However, it gave Mancini the opportunity to test Plan B, which worked to perfection as substitutes Federico Chiesa and Matteo Pessina struck to book Italy's place in the quarter-finals.

<h3>QUARTER-FINAL</h3>

BELGIUM 1-2 ITALY

Belgium's "Golden Generation" presented Italy with a headache but a tense match against the top-ranked side in the world was settled with first-half goals from Nicolo Barella and a sublime curling effort from Lorenzo Insigne.

Romelu Lukaku's penalty halved the lead but Italy held on in the second half. The Azzurri's night was soured, however, when influential left-back Leonardo Spinazzola was taken off on a stretcher with a torn Achilles tendon that ended his tournament.

<h3>SEMI-FINAL</h3>

ITALY 1-1 SPAIN (ITALY WON 4-2 ON PENALTIES)

A resurgent Spain represented Italy's toughest test at the Euros as Luis Enrique's side dominated the midfield battle in a compelling 1-1 draw in which Spain substitute Alvaro Morata cancelled out Federico Chiesa's superb curling shot.

With nothing to separate the sides after 120 minutes, Italy held their nerve in the penalty shootout. Jorginho converted the winning spot-kick with a cool finish as the Azzurri extended their unbeaten run to 33 matches.

Italy's failure to qualify for the 2018 World Cup caused heads to roll but the team looked rejuvenated under new boss Roberto Mancini. The Azzurri qualified with a perfect record in Group J, winning all 10 matches, scoring 37 goals and conceding only four.

Italy's failure to qualify for the 2018 World Cup caused heads to roll but the team looked rejuvenated under new boss Roberto Mancini. The Azzurri qualified with a perfect record in Group J, winning all 10 matches, scoring 37 goals and conceding only four. They finished the campaign with a 9-1 demolition of Armenia with seven different goal scorers. GROUP STAGE TURKEY 0-3 ITALY Turkey were seen as dark horses at the tournament but after a goalless first half, the floodgates opened when an own goal gave Italy the impetus to pile on the pressure. Ciro Immobile and Lorenzo Insigne also got on the scoresheet while at the back Giorgio Chiellini and Leonardo Bonucci were rarely troubled by Turkey's top scorer Burak Yilmaz. ITALY 3-0 SWITZERLAND Italy's strength was in their goals coming from multiple sources but little did Switzerland expect them to come from midfielder Manuel Locatelli who struck twice to add to his previous international tally of one goal. Immobile scored again late on to give Italy back-to-back 3-0 wins as the Azzurri became the first team to qualify for the knockout stages. ITALY 1-0 WALES Mancini made eight changes but still managed to get all three points when midfielder Matteo Pessina scored from a set-piece in the first half in Rome. Italy also kept a clean sheet for an 11th consecutive match. LAST 16 ITALY 2-1 AUSTRIA (AFTER EXTRA TIME) Underdogs Austria were in the knockout stage for the first time at the Euros and they gave Italy a scare by with an effort that was ruled out by VAR before they forced extra time as the match ended 0-0 after 90 minutes. However, it gave Mancini the opportunity to test Plan B, which worked to perfection as substitutes Federico Chiesa and Matteo Pessina struck to book Italy's place in the quarter-finals. QUARTER-FINAL BELGIUM 1-2 ITALY Belgium's "Golden Generation" presented Italy with a headache but a tense match against the top-ranked side in the world was settled with first-half goals from Nicolo Barella and a sublime curling effort from Lorenzo Insigne. Romelu Lukaku's penalty halved the lead but Italy held on in the second half. The Azzurri's night was soured, however, when influential left-back Leonardo Spinazzola was taken off on a stretcher with a torn Achilles tendon that ended his tournament. SEMI-FINAL ITALY 1-1 SPAIN (ITALY WON 4-2 ON PENALTIES) A resurgent Spain represented Italy's toughest test at the Euros as Luis Enrique's side dominated the midfield battle in a compelling 1-1 draw in which Spain substitute Alvaro Morata cancelled out Federico Chiesa's superb curling shot. With nothing to separate the sides after 120 minutes, Italy held their nerve in the penalty shootout. Jorginho converted the winning spot-kick with a cool finish as the Azzurri extended their unbeaten run to 33 matches.

Football: Italy's road to the Euro 2020 final

The following is England's road to the European Championship final where they will face Italy at Wembley on Sunday.

EURO QUALIFYING

England topped qualifying Group A with seven wins out of eight, their only setback being a 2-1 defeat away to the Czech Republic after they beat the second-placed Czechs 5-0 in the reverse fixture at Wembley in the opening round of games.

England’s run in which they scored 37 goals and conceded six also included a 7-0 drubbing of Montenegro at Wembley, a 6-0 away rout of Bulgaria and a 5-3 home win over Kosovo in Southampton.

The Czechs qualified alongside England and were drawn in the same group at the finals also including Croatia and Scotland.

<h3>GROUP STAGE</h3>

ENGLAND 1-0 CROATIA

The Three Lions started their Group D campaign at Wembley by getting revenge on the Croatians for a 2-1 defeat in the 2018 World Cup semi-finals with an industrious performance.

Although they lacked creativity at times, England ground out the win after Raheem Sterling got on the end of a defense-splitting pass from Kalvin Phillips and powered his shot past Croatia goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic in the 57th minute.

A superb defensive display by England denied Croatia any clear-cut chances at the other end.

ENGLAND 0-0 SCOTLAND

England headed into the clash at Wembley as favorites but were unable to break Scotland down and their profligacy in front of goal was nearly punished at the other end when Reece James had to clear a Lyndon Dykes shot off the line.

Scotland’s 20-year old midfielder Billy Gilmour, man of the match after a superb individual performance, tested positive for COVID-19 after the game and as a result England’s Mason Mount and Ben Chilwell, Gilmour’s Chelsea teammates who embraced him at the final whistle, had to self-isolate for a week.

CZECH REPUBLIC 0-1 ENGLAND

Another workmanlike performance at Wembley saw England finish top of the group after an early goal from Sterling gave them their second win of the tournament and made sure they kept did not concede any goals before the knockout stage.

With striker Harry Kane stifled in the group stage, livewire Sterling stepped up again to nod home a teasing 12th-minute cross from Jack Grealish to book a last-16 clash with Germany.

<h3>LAST-16</h3>

ENGLAND 2-0 GERMANY

A mature-looking England celebrated their first knockout stage win over Germany in a major tournament since the 1966 World Cup final after late goals from Sterling and Kane sank the Germans in a raucous atmosphere at Wembley.

After an even first half, England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford kept out a Kai Havertz shot with an acrobatic save and the hosts were on the front foot after Sterling tapped in a Luke Shaw cross in the 75th minute.

Thomas Mueller spurned a golden chance to equalize soon after when he shot wide when through on goal and Kane sealed the win in the 86th with a stooping header from a Grealish cross.

<h3>QUARTER-FINALS</h3>

UKRAINE 0-4 ENGLAND

England stormed into the last four with their most impressive performance of the tournament as the rejuvenated Kane scored twice while Harry Maguire and Jordan Henderson added one each at the Olympic stadium in Rome.

Captain Kane slid in from close range to fire England into a fourth-minute lead and Maguire doubled the advantage in the 46th with a thumping header into the far corner as he got on the end of a Shaw free-kick.

Kane made it 3-0 four minutes later with a simple header after another excellent delivery by Shaw and Henderson completed the rout in the 63rd with his first international goal when he headed home a Mason Mount corner.

<h3>SEMI-FINALS</h3>

ENGLAND 2-1 DENMARK

Having conceded their first goal in the tournament as they returned to Wembley, England fought back to win in extra time after falling behind to a sublime Mikkel Damsgaard free kick in the 30th minute.

The forward hit the top corner with a rasping shot which flew over the wall but England were level nine minutes later when Denmark captain Simon Kjaer could only turn a low Bukayo Saka cross into his own net ahead of the onrushing Sterling.

Kane netted the winner in the 104th minute as he swept in a rebound after goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel parried the striker’s penalty straight into his path, with the spot kick awarded after Sterling went down under a challenge from Joakim Maehle.

The following is England's road to the European Championship final where they will face Italy at Wembley on Sunday. EURO QUALIFYING England topped qualifying Group A with seven wins out of eight, their only setback being a 2-1 defeat away to the Czech Republic after they beat the second-placed Czechs 5-0 in the reverse fixture at Wembley in the opening round of games.

The following is England's road to the European Championship final where they will face Italy at Wembley on Sunday. EURO QUALIFYING England topped qualifying Group A with seven wins out of eight, their only setback being a 2-1 defeat away to the Czech Republic after they beat the second-placed Czechs 5-0 in the reverse fixture at Wembley in the opening round of games. England’s run in which they scored 37 goals and conceded six also included a 7-0 drubbing of Montenegro at Wembley, a 6-0 away rout of Bulgaria and a 5-3 home win over Kosovo in Southampton. The Czechs qualified alongside England and were drawn in the same group at the finals also including Croatia and Scotland. GROUP STAGE ENGLAND 1-0 CROATIA The Three Lions started their Group D campaign at Wembley by getting revenge on the Croatians for a 2-1 defeat in the 2018 World Cup semi-finals with an industrious performance. Although they lacked creativity at times, England ground out the win after Raheem Sterling got on the end of a defense-splitting pass from Kalvin Phillips and powered his shot past Croatia goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic in the 57th minute. A superb defensive display by England denied Croatia any clear-cut chances at the other end. ENGLAND 0-0 SCOTLAND England headed into the clash at Wembley as favorites but were unable to break Scotland down and their profligacy in front of goal was nearly punished at the other end when Reece James had to clear a Lyndon Dykes shot off the line. Scotland’s 20-year old midfielder Billy Gilmour, man of the match after a superb individual performance, tested positive for COVID-19 after the game and as a result England’s Mason Mount and Ben Chilwell, Gilmour’s Chelsea teammates who embraced him at the final whistle, had to self-isolate for a week. CZECH REPUBLIC 0-1 ENGLAND Another workmanlike performance at Wembley saw England finish top of the group after an early goal from Sterling gave them their second win of the tournament and made sure they kept did not concede any goals before the knockout stage. With striker Harry Kane stifled in the group stage, livewire Sterling stepped up again to nod home a teasing 12th-minute cross from Jack Grealish to book a last-16 clash with Germany. LAST-16 ENGLAND 2-0 GERMANY A mature-looking England celebrated their first knockout stage win over Germany in a major tournament since the 1966 World Cup final after late goals from Sterling and Kane sank the Germans in a raucous atmosphere at Wembley. After an even first half, England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford kept out a Kai Havertz shot with an acrobatic save and the hosts were on the front foot after Sterling tapped in a Luke Shaw cross in the 75th minute. Thomas Mueller spurned a golden chance to equalize soon after when he shot wide when through on goal and Kane sealed the win in the 86th with a stooping header from a Grealish cross. QUARTER-FINALS UKRAINE 0-4 ENGLAND England stormed into the last four with their most impressive performance of the tournament as the rejuvenated Kane scored twice while Harry Maguire and Jordan Henderson added one each at the Olympic stadium in Rome. Captain Kane slid in from close range to fire England into a fourth-minute lead and Maguire doubled the advantage in the 46th with a thumping header into the far corner as he got on the end of a Shaw free-kick. Kane made it 3-0 four minutes later with a simple header after another excellent delivery by Shaw and Henderson completed the rout in the 63rd with his first international goal when he headed home a Mason Mount corner. SEMI-FINALS ENGLAND 2-1 DENMARK Having conceded their first goal in the tournament as they returned to Wembley, England fought back to win in extra time after falling behind to a sublime Mikkel Damsgaard free kick in the 30th minute. The forward hit the top corner with a rasping shot which flew over the wall but England were level nine minutes later when Denmark captain Simon Kjaer could only turn a low Bukayo Saka cross into his own net ahead of the onrushing Sterling. Kane netted the winner in the 104th minute as he swept in a rebound after goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel parried the striker’s penalty straight into his path, with the spot kick awarded after Sterling went down under a challenge from Joakim Maehle.

Football: England's road to the Euro 2020 final

Some former cricketers are criticising the boundary countback rule after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-defeat-new-zealand-to-win-the-cricket-world-cup-2019-title-235973">England beat New Zealand</a> to lift their maiden ICC Men's Cricket World Cup at Lord's on Sunday night.

The final between England and New Zealand was one for the ages as the match did not have a winner after 50-over and super over action.

In the end, England were announced as the winner as they had hit more boundaries, 26, as compared to New Zealand's 17 boundaries in the match.

The rule, however, did not go well among the cricketing fraternity.

Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif in a tweet said it was difficult to digest the regulation. He further said it would have been better to share the trophy than deciding on more boundaries.

"Difficult to digest this more boundary rule. Something like sudden death- continuous super overs till a result is a better solution. Understand, wanting a definite winner but sharing a trophy is better than deciding on more boundaries. Very tough on New Zealand," Kaif said.

Yuvraj Singh, the former India cricketer, said he does not agree with the rule. He congratulated England but also acknowledged the fight displayed by New Zealand.

"I don't agree with that rule ! But rules are rules congratulations to England on finally winning the World Cup, my heart goes out for the kiwis they fought till the end. Great game an epic final!!!!" Yuvraj said.

Former Australia speedster Brett Lee said it was a horrible way to decide the winner. He also urged that the rule should be changed.

"Congratulations to England! Commiserations New Zealand. I've got to say that it's a horrible way to decide the winner. This rule has to change," Lee tweeted.

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Congratulations to England! 
Commiserations New Zealand. 
I’ve got to say that it’s a horrible way to decide the winner. This rule has to change.
— Brett Lee (@BrettLee_58) <a href="https://twitter.com/BrettLee_58/status/1150482278100819969?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Gautam Gambhir, the former India batsman, termed the rule as ridiculous. He further said that the match should have remained as tie and called both England and New Zealand as winners.

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Don't understand how the game of such proportions, the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19Final?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19Final</a>, is finally decided on who scored the most boundaries. A ridiculous rule <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ICC</a>. Should have been a tie. I want to congratulate both <a href="https://twitter.com/BLACKCAPS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BLACKCAPS</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/englandcricket?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@englandcricket</a> on playing out a nail biting Final. Both winners imo.
— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) <a href="https://twitter.com/GautamGambhir/status/1150476241188741120?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"Don't understand how the game of such proportions, the #CWC19Final, is finally decided on who scored the most boundaries. A ridiculous rule @ICC. Should have been a tie. I want to congratulate both @BLACKCAPS &amp; @englandcricket on playing out a nail biting Final. Both winners imo," Gambhir wrote.

After missing out on the World Cup trophy, Kiwi skipper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kane-williamson-says-world-cup-final-defeat-hard-to-swallow-235996">Kane Williamson</a> said the loss against England in the final based on the boundary count was "pretty hard to swallow".

"I never thought I would have to answer this. It's pretty hard to swallow when two teams have worked really hard to reach this point. It's what it is, the rules were there at the start, no one thought it would come down to this. It's a pretty hard loss to swallow.

The rules are there. It is something you don't consider when you go out to play. I didn`t even know what the boundary count was, but we were behind," Williamson said.

Some former cricketers are criticising the boundary countback rule after England beat New Zealand to lift their maiden ICC Men's Cricket World Cup at Lord's on Sunday night.

Some former cricketers are criticising the boundary countback rule after England beat New Zealand to lift their maiden ICC Men's Cricket World Cup at Lord's on Sunday night. The final between England and New Zealand was one for the ages as the match did not have a winner after 50-over and super over action. In the end, England were announced as the winner as they had hit more boundaries, 26, as compared to New Zealand's 17 boundaries in the match. The rule, however, did not go well among the cricketing fraternity. Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif in a tweet said it was difficult to digest the regulation. He further said it would have been better to share the trophy than deciding on more boundaries. "Difficult to digest this more boundary rule. Something like sudden death- continuous super overs till a result is a better solution. Understand, wanting a definite winner but sharing a trophy is better than deciding on more boundaries. Very tough on New Zealand," Kaif said. Yuvraj Singh, the former India cricketer, said he does not agree with the rule. He congratulated England but also acknowledged the fight displayed by New Zealand. "I don't agree with that rule ! But rules are rules congratulations to England on finally winning the World Cup, my heart goes out for the kiwis they fought till the end. Great game an epic final!!!!" Yuvraj said. Former Australia speedster Brett Lee said it was a horrible way to decide the winner. He also urged that the rule should be changed. "Congratulations to England! Commiserations New Zealand. I've got to say that it's a horrible way to decide the winner. This rule has to change," Lee tweeted. Congratulations to England! Commiserations New Zealand. I’ve got to say that it’s a horrible way to decide the winner. This rule has to change. — Brett Lee (@BrettLee_58) July 14, 2019 × Gautam Gambhir, the former India batsman, termed the rule as ridiculous. He further said that the match should have remained as tie and called both England and New Zealand as winners. Don't understand how the game of such proportions, the #CWC19Final, is finally decided on who scored the most boundaries. A ridiculous rule @ICC. Should have been a tie. I want to congratulate both @BLACKCAPS & @englandcricket on playing out a nail biting Final. Both winners imo. — Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) July 14, 2019 × "Don't understand how the game of such proportions, the #CWC19Final, is finally decided on who scored the most boundaries. A ridiculous rule @ICC. Should have been a tie. I want to congratulate both @BLACKCAPS & @englandcricket on playing out a nail biting Final. Both winners imo," Gambhir wrote. After missing out on the World Cup trophy, Kiwi skipper Kane Williamson said the loss against England in the final based on the boundary count was "pretty hard to swallow". "I never thought I would have to answer this. It's pretty hard to swallow when two teams have worked really hard to reach this point. It's what it is, the rules were there at the start, no one thought it would come down to this. It's a pretty hard loss to swallow. The rules are there. It is something you don't consider when you go out to play. I didn`t even know what the boundary count was, but we were behind," Williamson said.

World Cup final: Gautam Gambhir, Brett Lee and others criticise boundary countback rule

Rafael Nadal rued missing out on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/roger-federer-downs-rafael-nadal-to-set-up-novak-djokovic-wimbledon-title-duel-235413">Wimbledon final</a> after losing to great rival Roger Federer and admitted his chances of adding a third title on the grass of the All England Club are receding.

The 33-year-old Spaniard, who remains two off Federer's Grand Slam record title haul of 20, has two Wimbledon crowns to his name.

But he said his game on Friday was never at the level required to repeat his epic win in his first championship victory over Federer 11 years ago.

Nadal, who won his 12th French Open trophy in June, ended up on the wrong end of a 7-6 (7/3), 1-6, 6-3, 6-4 defeat.

It will be Federer who bids for a ninth <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serena-williams-to-face-simona-halep-in-wimbledon-final-235136">Wimbledon </a>title against the four-time champion Novak Djokovic, the third member of the great triumvirate that still dominate the sport.&nbsp;

"I am sad for the loss because for me it was another opportunity," he said.

"But at the same time I created another opportunity to be in another final of a Grand Slam.''

"Just accept that was not my day. I played a great event. I take this in a positive way.''

"At the same time, today is sad because for me I know chances are not forever.''

"Last year I had chances here (he lost in five sets to Djokovic in the semi-final), I had another one, and I was not able to convert to win it one more time here," said Nadal.

'We are not done'&nbsp; 
 
Nadal, who suffered his first loss to Federer in a Grand Slam semi-final after winning on the previous four occasions, said it was a wonderful experience to be part of the great rivalry with fellow 30-somethings Federer and Djokovic.

Indeed - Andy Murray aside on two occasions - no other player apart from them has lifted the Wimbledon trophy since Australian Lleyton Hewitt in 2002.

"We spoke about that one thousand times," said Nadal.

"The same time is great to be part of this rivalry, be in the middle of these three players that achieved that much in this sport in the same era," Nadal said.

If the increasingly harassed 'NextGen' group of players - who speak of the unbearable pressure they feel in trying to break up the trio's dominance -&nbsp;were hoping for a light at the end of the tunnel Nadal offered none.

"It is something that is going to be difficult to see again," he said.

"We are not done, so... Things continue. Just another episode this afternoon.''

"Of course, as I said the other day, we know that every time there are less chances to play against each other in these high-quality matches.''

"Was another chance this afternoon," Nadal said.

Nadal said defeat was tough but graciously congratulated <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/roger-federer-wins-100th-wimbledon-match-sets-up-clash-with-rafael-nadal-in-semi-final-234850">Federer </a>on being the better player on the day.

Nadal said 37-year-old Federer's qualities remain undimmed and constant.

"The same like all my career, no?" he said. "He is always able to do the most difficult things easy.''

"He's able to move inside the court quicker than anyone.''

"He puts pressure on the opponent all the time because he has the ability to take the ball earlier than anybody else.''

"That's probably the most difficult thing to make that happen, and he is able to do it so well," added Nadal.

Rafael Nadal rued missing out on the Wimbledon final after losing to great rival Roger Federer and admitted his chances of adding a third title on the grass of the All England Club are receding.

Rafael Nadal rued missing out on the Wimbledon final after losing to great rival Roger Federer and admitted his chances of adding a third title on the grass of the All England Club are receding. The 33-year-old Spaniard, who remains two off Federer's Grand Slam record title haul of 20, has two Wimbledon crowns to his name. But he said his game on Friday was never at the level required to repeat his epic win in his first championship victory over Federer 11 years ago. Nadal, who won his 12th French Open trophy in June, ended up on the wrong end of a 7-6 (7/3), 1-6, 6-3, 6-4 defeat. It will be Federer who bids for a ninth Wimbledon title against the four-time champion Novak Djokovic, the third member of the great triumvirate that still dominate the sport. "I am sad for the loss because for me it was another opportunity," he said. "But at the same time I created another opportunity to be in another final of a Grand Slam.'' "Just accept that was not my day. I played a great event. I take this in a positive way.'' "At the same time, today is sad because for me I know chances are not forever.'' "Last year I had chances here (he lost in five sets to Djokovic in the semi-final), I had another one, and I was not able to convert to win it one more time here," said Nadal. 'We are not done' Nadal, who suffered his first loss to Federer in a Grand Slam semi-final after winning on the previous four occasions, said it was a wonderful experience to be part of the great rivalry with fellow 30-somethings Federer and Djokovic. Indeed - Andy Murray aside on two occasions - no other player apart from them has lifted the Wimbledon trophy since Australian Lleyton Hewitt in 2002. "We spoke about that one thousand times," said Nadal. "The same time is great to be part of this rivalry, be in the middle of these three players that achieved that much in this sport in the same era," Nadal said. If the increasingly harassed 'NextGen' group of players - who speak of the unbearable pressure they feel in trying to break up the trio's dominance - were hoping for a light at the end of the tunnel Nadal offered none. "It is something that is going to be difficult to see again," he said. "We are not done, so... Things continue. Just another episode this afternoon.'' "Of course, as I said the other day, we know that every time there are less chances to play against each other in these high-quality matches.'' "Was another chance this afternoon," Nadal said. Nadal said defeat was tough but graciously congratulated Federer on being the better player on the day. Nadal said 37-year-old Federer's qualities remain undimmed and constant. "The same like all my career, no?" he said. "He is always able to do the most difficult things easy.'' "He's able to move inside the court quicker than anyone.'' "He puts pressure on the opponent all the time because he has the ability to take the ball earlier than anybody else.'' "That's probably the most difficult thing to make that happen, and he is able to do it so well," added Nadal.

'We are not done,' says Rafael Nadal after loss to Roger Federer at Wimbledon

Ahead of the World Cup <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-face-day-of-destiny-in-world-cup-final-against-new-zealand-235415">final against New Zealand</a>, England's Adil Rashid eulogised skipper Eoin Morgan stating that he has full trust in the decision that Morgan makes.

"Me (Rashid) and him (Morgan) have that communication. We have that trust as well. If he senses a feel, we'll go by it. If I sense a feel, we'll go by it - what plans we want or how we should bowl. It's very easy like that. We're easygoing like that. I trust 100 per cent in the decisions he makes,"&nbsp; Rashid said.

Rashid also stated that Morgan knows his game inside out and has been with him through 'good and not so good times'.

"He knows my game now inside out. Been with him for four years, through good times and not so good times. He knows my strengths, what I'm capable of and vice-versa as well," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/englands-jason-roy-escapes-world-cup-final-ban-after-dissent-fine-235227">England </a>secured their final spot after they thrashed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-outplayed-by-england-in-world-cup-semi-says-aaron-finch-235138">Australia </a>by eight wickets in the semi-final on July 11.

Rashid said that is a good feeling as they can now lift the trophy.

"At the beginning of the tournament, I couldn't believe it. It's been a good journey in the World Cup. The ups, the downs as well. Some interesting times. We've played good cricket the past three games and now to be in a position where we can win it, it's a good feeling," Rashid said.

England will face <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealand-stun-india-by-18-runs-to-reach-world-cup-final-234755">New Zealand</a> in the World Cup final at Lord`s on July 14.

Ahead of the World Cup final against New Zealand, England's Adil Rashid eulogised skipper Eoin Morgan stating that he has full trust in the decision that Morgan makes.

Ahead of the World Cup final against New Zealand, England's Adil Rashid eulogised skipper Eoin Morgan stating that he has full trust in the decision that Morgan makes. "Me (Rashid) and him (Morgan) have that communication. We have that trust as well. If he senses a feel, we'll go by it. If I sense a feel, we'll go by it - what plans we want or how we should bowl. It's very easy like that. We're easygoing like that. I trust 100 per cent in the decisions he makes," Rashid said. Rashid also stated that Morgan knows his game inside out and has been with him through 'good and not so good times'. "He knows my game now inside out. Been with him for four years, through good times and not so good times. He knows my strengths, what I'm capable of and vice-versa as well," he said. England secured their final spot after they thrashed Australia by eight wickets in the semi-final on July 11. Rashid said that is a good feeling as they can now lift the trophy. "At the beginning of the tournament, I couldn't believe it. It's been a good journey in the World Cup. The ups, the downs as well. Some interesting times. We've played good cricket the past three games and now to be in a position where we can win it, it's a good feeling," Rashid said. England will face New Zealand in the World Cup final at Lord`s on July 14.

Eoin Morgan has been with me through 'good and not so good times': England's Adil Rashid

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chris-woakes-hails-incredible-england-after-hosts-power-into-world-cup-final-235139">England </a>batsman Jason Roy has avoided a potential ban for the World Cup final after protesting about his dismissal during Thursday's victory over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-outplayed-by-england-in-world-cup-semi-says-aaron-finch-235138">Australia</a>.

Roy, who had struck a magnificent 85 in 65 balls, was given out caught behind off Pat Cummins, although television replays showed the ball had not touched his bat or glove as he attempted a pull shot.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-thrash-australia-by-eight-wickets-to-reach-world-cup-final-235127">England </a>opener stood his ground and remonstrated with South African umpire Marais Erasmus. England had used their review appeals by that stage of the semi-final.

With Roy having gained one demerit point already in the tournament, he risked a one-match ban, for Sunday's final, if he was handed three points and reached the four-point limit.

But in a statement, the International Cricket Council said he had been given only two points and a fine of 30 per cent of his match fee.

"Roy admitted the offence and accepted the sanction proposed by match referee Ranjan Madugalle and as such, there was no need for a formal hearing," the ICC said.

Roy has formed a formidable opening partnership with Jonny Bairstow, the pair sharing century stands in the last four matches they have started together.

England batsman Jason Roy has avoided a potential ban for the World Cup final after protesting about his dismissal during Thursday's victory over Australia. Roy, who had struck a magnificent 85 in 65 balls, was given out caught behind off Pat Cummins, although television replays showed the ball had not touched his bat or glove as he attempted a pull shot.

England batsman Jason Roy has avoided a potential ban for the World Cup final after protesting about his dismissal during Thursday's victory over Australia. Roy, who had struck a magnificent 85 in 65 balls, was given out caught behind off Pat Cummins, although television replays showed the ball had not touched his bat or glove as he attempted a pull shot. The England opener stood his ground and remonstrated with South African umpire Marais Erasmus. England had used their review appeals by that stage of the semi-final. With Roy having gained one demerit point already in the tournament, he risked a one-match ban, for Sunday's final, if he was handed three points and reached the four-point limit. But in a statement, the International Cricket Council said he had been given only two points and a fine of 30 per cent of his match fee. "Roy admitted the offence and accepted the sanction proposed by match referee Ranjan Madugalle and as such, there was no need for a formal hearing," the ICC said. Roy has formed a formidable opening partnership with Jonny Bairstow, the pair sharing century stands in the last four matches they have started together.

England's Jason Roy escapes World Cup final ban after dissent fine

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp has said Brazilian striker Roberto Firmino should be fit to face Tottenham Hotspur in Saturday's Champions League final in Madrid. Firmino missed Liverpool's memorable semi-final win over Barcelona and the final game of the Premier League season against Wolverhampton Wanderers with a muscle strain but he has responded well to his return to training said, Klopp.

Robert Firmino 'will be fine' for final says Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp

They may not know the rules of Twenty20 cricket, but the cheerleaders who follow the eight Indian Premier League (IPL) teams have become a key part of the success of the world's wealthiest cricket tournament that will stage a new final on Sunday.

Cheerleaders dance to India's craziness in IPL festival

Liverpool produced one of the most stunning comebacks in Champions League history as Divock Origi and Georginio Wijnaldum scored twice to beat Barcelona 4-0 and progress to the final for the second consecutive year 4-3 on aggregate.

Liverpool 'giants' stun Barca to make Champions League final

The 2018 French Open women's singles final is set, world number one Simona Halep will face US Open champion Sloane Stephens on June 9, Friday at Philippe-Chatrier.

Sloane Stephens | #10

Sloane Stephens defeated fellow American Madison Keys 6-4, 6-4 in the semi-finals of French Open.

Stephens, who had never gone past the fourth round in Paris, will meet world number one Simona Halep.

The 25-year-old Stephens will become the first American other than the Williams sisters break into the top five in the WTA rankings.

Simona Halep | #1

Top seed Simona Halep reached her third French Open final.

World number one Simona Halep is eyeing her first Grand Slam title. She has lost three previous Grand Slam finals, including two at Roland Garros in 2014 and 2017.

"I think I played one of my best matches on clay," Halep said. "Every day I play better and that makes me happy."

The 2018 French Open women's singles final is set, world number one Simona Halep will face US Open champion Sloane Stephens

The 2018 French Open women's singles final is set, world number one Simona Halep will face US Open champion Sloane Stephens on June 9, Friday at Philippe-Chatrier. Sloane Stephens | #10 Sloane Stephens defeated fellow American Madison Keys 6-4, 6-4 in the semi-finals of French Open. Stephens, who had never gone past the fourth round in Paris, will meet world number one Simona Halep. The 25-year-old Stephens will become the first American other than the Williams sisters break into the top five in the WTA rankings. Simona Halep | #1 Top seed Simona Halep reached her third French Open final. World number one Simona Halep is eyeing her first Grand Slam title. She has lost three previous Grand Slam finals, including two at Roland Garros in 2014 and 2017. "I think I played one of my best matches on clay," Halep said. "Every day I play better and that makes me happy."

French Open: Sloane Stephens, Simona Halep to meet in women's singles final

Shane Watson played a ruthless knock to steer Chennai to their third IPL title as they defeated Hyderabad by eight wickets at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.

Watson blazed unbeaten 117 off 57 deliveries, making it the highest score ever made in an IPL final, to guide MS Dhoni's side to victory with nine balls to spare.

The Australian shared a second-wicket stand of 117 with Suresh Raina as Chennai comfortably chased down challenging 179.&nbsp

Stunned with Watson's heroics, Twitteratti were in awe of the veteran, hailing him for being Chennai's hero tonight.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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Things that get better with age : 
 
3. Whiskey 
2. Pickles 
1. Shane Watson<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CSKvSRH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CSKvSRH</a>
— SAGAR (@sagarcasm) <a href="https://twitter.com/sagarcasm/status/1000779397085872128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Shane Watson....... Doesn’t matter how Old you are......... <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2018Final?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2018Final</a>
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelVaughan/status/1000785534824968192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
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IPL 2008 gave Shane Watson's international career a second wind. 
 
IPL 2018 has probably given his retirement a second wind. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2018Final?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2018Final</a>
— Saurabh Somani (@saurabh_42) <a href="https://twitter.com/saurabh_42/status/1000783037712367617?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Shane Watson - the only man to twice be IPL man of the tournament, and now a centurion in an IPL final - is one of the greatest T20 cricketers of all time
— Tim (@timwig) <a href="https://twitter.com/timwig/status/1000784471753359360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
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?4th IPL Century For Shane Watson 
?2nd Century This Season 
?4th Player To Score 2 Centuries In An IPL Season 
 
One And Only <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ShaneWatson?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ShaneWatson</a>. ??? 
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2018Final?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2018Final</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SRHvsCSK?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SRHvsCSK</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CSKvsSRH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CSKvsSRH</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CSKvSRH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CSKvSRH</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WhistlePodu?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WhistlePodu</a> <a href="https://t.co/LvnC77nWdV">pic.twitter.com/LvnC77nWdV</a>
— Sir Ravindra Jadeja (@SirJadejaaaa) <a href="https://twitter.com/SirJadejaaaa/status/1000785544891195392?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
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With this century, Watson became the second batsman in IPL history to score a century in a final.

The Australian also shared a second-wicket stand of 117 with Suresh Raina

Shane Watson played a ruthless knock to steer Chennai to their third IPL title as they defeated Hyderabad by eight wickets at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Watson blazed unbeaten 117 off 57 deliveries, making it the highest score ever made in an IPL final, to guide MS Dhoni's side to victory with nine balls to spare. The Australian shared a second-wicket stand of 117 with Suresh Raina as Chennai comfortably chased down challenging 179. Stunned with Watson's heroics, Twitteratti were in awe of the veteran, hailing him for being Chennai's hero tonight. Things that get better with age : 3. Whiskey 2. Pickles 1. Shane Watson#CSKvSRH — SAGAR (@sagarcasm) May 27, 2018 × Shane Watson....... Doesn’t matter how Old you are......... #IPL2018Final — Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) May 27, 2018 × IPL 2008 gave Shane Watson's international career a second wind. IPL 2018 has probably given his retirement a second wind. #IPL2018Final — Saurabh Somani (@saurabh_42) May 27, 2018 × Shane Watson - the only man to twice be IPL man of the tournament, and now a centurion in an IPL final - is one of the greatest T20 cricketers of all time — Tim (@timwig) May 27, 2018 × ?4th IPL Century For Shane Watson ?2nd Century This Season ?4th Player To Score 2 Centuries In An IPL Season One And Only #ShaneWatson. ??? #IPL2018Final #SRHvsCSK #CSKvsSRH #CSKvSRH #WhistlePodu pic.twitter.com/LvnC77nWdV — Sir Ravindra Jadeja (@SirJadejaaaa) May 27, 2018 × With this century, Watson became the second batsman in IPL history to score a century in a final.

Shane Watson's ton helps Chennai lift 3rd IPL title, Twitter goes wild

Zinedine Zidane has told Liverpool his Real Madrid team are hungrier than ever to win the Champions League, despite clinching the title in three of the last four years.&nbsp

Real are gunning for an unprecedented third consecutive success in the competition on Saturday while Liverpool have reached the final for the first time since 2007.&nbsp

"No one can tell us we are less hungry," Zidane said. "I can't speak for our opponents but we want to stress we will always have the same motivation, the same as always, no one can tell us we are less hungry than the rest.&nbsp

"We are Madrid and despite what we have, we always want more, and we will give everything to get even better."

Real's experience at the deep end of the Champions League dwarfs that of this Liverpool team, who do not have a single player to have made it this far before.

Zidane also has his own personal achievements to draw upon, having won the most coveted prize in club football three times as a player and manager combined.

"It's true I lived 18 years as a player inside the changing room, with many coaches, with many players, with just as much ego as me," Zidane said.&nbsp

"I know the changing room and I know the mind of a player and that is an important thing for me, but it is not the only thing.&nbsp

"I am not the best tactician, but I have other things - passion, motivation - and those are worth much more."&nbsp

Some have billed this weekend's showdown as a contest between Cristiano Ronaldo and Mohamed Salah but when asked if he would swap Ronaldo for the Liverpool forward, Zidane simply replied: "No."&nbsp

On Ronaldo's influence on the final, Zidane said: "The most possible. He is the best so it will be the maximum."&nbsp

Zidane would offer no clues as to his starting line-up in Kiev but he did acknowledge the excellent form of Gareth Bale, who has scored five goals in his last four starts.&nbsp

"He is playing very well, he has scored many goals recently," Zidane said. "Not only that but he has been very consistent. He has not played so much, but the last three games he has played he has played well."

Zinedine Zidane has told Liverpool his Real Madrid team are hungrier than ever to win the Champions League

Zinedine Zidane has told Liverpool his Real Madrid team are hungrier than ever to win the Champions League, despite clinching the title in three of the last four years. Real are gunning for an unprecedented third consecutive success in the competition on Saturday while Liverpool have reached the final for the first time since 2007. "No one can tell us we are less hungry," Zidane said. "I can't speak for our opponents but we want to stress we will always have the same motivation, the same as always, no one can tell us we are less hungry than the rest. "We are Madrid and despite what we have, we always want more, and we will give everything to get even better." Real's experience at the deep end of the Champions League dwarfs that of this Liverpool team, who do not have a single player to have made it this far before. Zidane also has his own personal achievements to draw upon, having won the most coveted prize in club football three times as a player and manager combined. "It's true I lived 18 years as a player inside the changing room, with many coaches, with many players, with just as much ego as me," Zidane said. "I know the changing room and I know the mind of a player and that is an important thing for me, but it is not the only thing. "I am not the best tactician, but I have other things - passion, motivation - and those are worth much more." Some have billed this weekend's showdown as a contest between Cristiano Ronaldo and Mohamed Salah but when asked if he would swap Ronaldo for the Liverpool forward, Zidane simply replied: "No." On Ronaldo's influence on the final, Zidane said: "The most possible. He is the best so it will be the maximum." Zidane would offer no clues as to his starting line-up in Kiev but he did acknowledge the excellent form of Gareth Bale, who has scored five goals in his last four starts. "He is playing very well, he has scored many goals recently," Zidane said. "Not only that but he has been very consistent. He has not played so much, but the last three games he has played he has played well."

Real Madrid is desperate to win the Champions League - Zidane

final

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