The coronavirus has turned sport on its head and nowhere more so than in tennis, where the often-controversial Nick Kyrgios has been anointed as "St. Nick" for his moral leadership during the pandemic.

Best known for his flamboyant persona and spectacular on-court tantrums, Kyrgios has long been a provocative and polarising figure as he racked up a string of fines and bans.

But the combustible Australian has shown a different side in recent weeks as he took Novak Djokovic and other top players to task for their "stupidity" and risky behaviour.

It followed the world number one's decision to press ahead with an exhibition tournament in the Balkans, where social distancing was minimal. Djokovic, Grigor Dimitrov, Borna Coric and Viktor Troicki all tested positive for COVID-19.

"Don't @ me for anything I've done that has been 'irresponsible' or classified as 'stupidity' - this takes the cake," Kyrgios tweeted.

Kyrgios also lashed "selfish" Alexander Zverev after he was spotted partying despite vowing to self-isolate following Djokovic's Adria Tour, while questioning Dominic Thiem's intellect after the Austrian hit out at his criticism.

The exchanges follow Kyrgios's admirable, and often emotional, efforts to drum up support for victims of the devastating bushfires that ripped through Australia this year, earning him new respect.

Often lamented in the media as a loud mouth and wasted talent, Sydney's Daily Telegraph is now calling 40th-ranked Kyrgios the "voice of reason".

"Crazy events are happening every day in sport but the wackiest of all is Nick Kyrgios becoming a COVID crusader and the clear-thinking conscience of a twisted tennis world," it wrote recently. "St Nick. Moral guardian. Who'd a thunk it?"

Tennis great John Newcombe&nbsp;also praised him for calling out players flouting COVID-19 protocols, but suggested he should do so less publicly.

"I know when we were playing, if you had a problem you took it to the person. You didn't make it public. But it's a different world, I guess," he told reporters.

<h2>- 'Cringeworthy' -</h2>

The "new Nick" is not to everyone's liking, with some on social media suggesting he was using the pandemic to raise his profile and re-ignite feuds with players he doesn't get on with.

"He's trying to be relevant off the court cuz everyone knows he can't ever deliver on the court," said one user, while another suggested: "He's using the virus as an excuse to do what he's always done which is criticise other players on social media."

That criticism includes Djokovic, after last year Kyrgios said of the Serb: "I just feel like he has a sick obsession with wanting to be liked."

"This whole celebration thing (blowing kisses to the crowd) that he does after matches, it's like so cringeworthy," he added.

Kyrgios also has history with Zverev, whom he enraged in January by provocatively performing push-ups when the German was serving double faults during the ATP Cup.

While Kyrgios, 25, will always have his knockers, he also has a big fanbase with 1.4 million Instagram followers and hundreds of thousands on Twitter.

As Serena Williams' coach Patrick Mouratoglou noted this week: "He (Kyrgios) is one of the only guys beside the top three who fills up the stadiums."

"He is provocative and he exaggerates but that's how he is and that's why he is an interesting character and a lot of people like him," he added.

The Sydney Morning Herald suggested Kyrgios' COVID-19 criticisms were "part of an image-rebuild" that started with his bushfire fundraising after a series of on-court scandals last year.

"He has endorsements with Nike, Yonex and Beats headphones. Now that he is the world ambassador against tennis dickheads, he puts himself even more firmly into the hands of corporate image-makers," it wrote.

The coronavirus has turned sport on its head and nowhere more so than in tennis, where the often-controversial Nick Kyrgios has been anointed as "St. Nick" for his moral leadership during the pandemic.

The coronavirus has turned sport on its head and nowhere more so than in tennis, where the often-controversial Nick Kyrgios has been anointed as "St. Nick" for his moral leadership during the pandemic. Best known for his flamboyant persona and spectacular on-court tantrums, Kyrgios has long been a provocative and polarising figure as he racked up a string of fines and bans. But the combustible Australian has shown a different side in recent weeks as he took Novak Djokovic and other top players to task for their "stupidity" and risky behaviour. It followed the world number one's decision to press ahead with an exhibition tournament in the Balkans, where social distancing was minimal. Djokovic, Grigor Dimitrov, Borna Coric and Viktor Troicki all tested positive for COVID-19. "Don't @ me for anything I've done that has been 'irresponsible' or classified as 'stupidity' - this takes the cake," Kyrgios tweeted. Kyrgios also lashed "selfish" Alexander Zverev after he was spotted partying despite vowing to self-isolate following Djokovic's Adria Tour, while questioning Dominic Thiem's intellect after the Austrian hit out at his criticism. The exchanges follow Kyrgios's admirable, and often emotional, efforts to drum up support for victims of the devastating bushfires that ripped through Australia this year, earning him new respect. Often lamented in the media as a loud mouth and wasted talent, Sydney's Daily Telegraph is now calling 40th-ranked Kyrgios the "voice of reason". "Crazy events are happening every day in sport but the wackiest of all is Nick Kyrgios becoming a COVID crusader and the clear-thinking conscience of a twisted tennis world," it wrote recently. "St Nick. Moral guardian. Who'd a thunk it?" Tennis great John Newcombe also praised him for calling out players flouting COVID-19 protocols, but suggested he should do so less publicly. "I know when we were playing, if you had a problem you took it to the person. You didn't make it public. But it's a different world, I guess," he told reporters. - 'Cringeworthy' - The "new Nick" is not to everyone's liking, with some on social media suggesting he was using the pandemic to raise his profile and re-ignite feuds with players he doesn't get on with. "He's trying to be relevant off the court cuz everyone knows he can't ever deliver on the court," said one user, while another suggested: "He's using the virus as an excuse to do what he's always done which is criticise other players on social media." That criticism includes Djokovic, after last year Kyrgios said of the Serb: "I just feel like he has a sick obsession with wanting to be liked." "This whole celebration thing (blowing kisses to the crowd) that he does after matches, it's like so cringeworthy," he added. Kyrgios also has history with Zverev, whom he enraged in January by provocatively performing push-ups when the German was serving double faults during the ATP Cup. While Kyrgios, 25, will always have his knockers, he also has a big fanbase with 1.4 million Instagram followers and hundreds of thousands on Twitter. As Serena Williams' coach Patrick Mouratoglou noted this week: "He (Kyrgios) is one of the only guys beside the top three who fills up the stadiums." "He is provocative and he exaggerates but that's how he is and that's why he is an interesting character and a lot of people like him," he added. The Sydney Morning Herald suggested Kyrgios' COVID-19 criticisms were "part of an image-rebuild" that started with his bushfire fundraising after a series of on-court scandals last year. "He has endorsements with Nike, Yonex and Beats headphones. Now that he is the world ambassador against tennis dickheads, he puts himself even more firmly into the hands of corporate image-makers," it wrote.

'St. Nick' - how combustible Kyrgios became 'voice of reason'

"All lives don't matter until black lives matter," former South Africa captain and star batsman Faf du Plessis said on Friday, lending support to the fight against racism that has gripped the world with renewed vigour after African-American George Floyd's death.

Offering his views on the 'Black Lives Matter' movement, which found support in the ongoing England-West Indies Test series where players from both sides took a knee in the opening match, du Plessis said time has come to fight racism head on.

"In the last couple of months I have realised that we must choose our battles. We are surrounded by many injustices in our country that require urgent attention and action to fix them," the 36-year-old du Plessis posted on instagram.

Floyd became a symbol of the anti-racism movement after he was killed at the hands of a white police officer in Minneapolis, triggering widespread protests across the US and the world.

"So I've remained silent, with the intent to listen, but not respond. Slowing down my point of view, but quicker to hear the pain of someone else. I surrender my opinions and take the knee as an intercessor.

"I acknowledge that South Africa is still hugely divided by racism and it is my personal responsibility to do my best to emphasize, hear the stories, learn and then be part of the solution with my thoughts, words and actions," du Plessis added.

This is in stark contrast to his past stance of rejecting talk of racism. He had said that "we don't see colour" when asked about Temba Bavuma's axing earlier this year.

"I have gotten it wrong before. Good intentions were failed by a lack of perspective when I said on a platform that - I don't see colour. In my ignorance I silenced the struggles of others by placing my own view on it," du Plessis said.

"A race problem is a human race problem, if one part of the body hurts ,we all stop, we empathize, we get perspective, we learn and then we tend to the hurting part of the body."

His teammate and pacer Lungi Ngidi has stated that the team will discuss a way to support the BLM movement when it has a chance at a group discussion. The players have restarted training after a prolonged break caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Du Plessis said the BLM movement has his full support.

"So I am saying that all lives don't matter UNTIL black lives matter. I'm speaking up now, because if I wait to be perfect, I never will. I want to leave a legacy of empathy," he said.

"The work needs to continue for the change to come and whether we agree or disagree, conversation is the vehicle for change," he added.

"All lives don't matter until black lives matter," former South Africa captain and star batsman Faf du Plessis said on Friday, lending support to the fight against racism that has gripped the world with renewed vigour after African-American George Floyd's death.

"All lives don't matter until black lives matter," former South Africa captain and star batsman Faf du Plessis said on Friday, lending support to the fight against racism that has gripped the world with renewed vigour after African-American George Floyd's death. Offering his views on the 'Black Lives Matter' movement, which found support in the ongoing England-West Indies Test series where players from both sides took a knee in the opening match, du Plessis said time has come to fight racism head on. "In the last couple of months I have realised that we must choose our battles. We are surrounded by many injustices in our country that require urgent attention and action to fix them," the 36-year-old du Plessis posted on instagram. Floyd became a symbol of the anti-racism movement after he was killed at the hands of a white police officer in Minneapolis, triggering widespread protests across the US and the world. "So I've remained silent, with the intent to listen, but not respond. Slowing down my point of view, but quicker to hear the pain of someone else. I surrender my opinions and take the knee as an intercessor. "I acknowledge that South Africa is still hugely divided by racism and it is my personal responsibility to do my best to emphasize, hear the stories, learn and then be part of the solution with my thoughts, words and actions," du Plessis added. This is in stark contrast to his past stance of rejecting talk of racism. He had said that "we don't see colour" when asked about Temba Bavuma's axing earlier this year. "I have gotten it wrong before. Good intentions were failed by a lack of perspective when I said on a platform that - I don't see colour. In my ignorance I silenced the struggles of others by placing my own view on it," du Plessis said. "A race problem is a human race problem, if one part of the body hurts ,we all stop, we empathize, we get perspective, we learn and then we tend to the hurting part of the body." His teammate and pacer Lungi Ngidi has stated that the team will discuss a way to support the BLM movement when it has a chance at a group discussion. The players have restarted training after a prolonged break caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Du Plessis said the BLM movement has his full support. "So I am saying that all lives don't matter UNTIL black lives matter. I'm speaking up now, because if I wait to be perfect, I never will. I want to leave a legacy of empathy," he said. "The work needs to continue for the change to come and whether we agree or disagree, conversation is the vehicle for change," he added.

All lives don't matter until black lives matter: Faf Du Plessis

English speedster <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-wi-jofra-archer-dropped-from-2nd-test-for-breaching-teams-bio-secure-protocols-313649">Jofra Archer’s breach of bio-secure protocols </a>could have led to a “disaster” and ended up costing the England and Wales Cricket Board tens of millions of pounds, ECB director of cricket Ashley Giles has said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-wi-jofra-archer-dropped-from-2nd-test-for-breaching-teams-bio-secure-protocols-313649">Archer was dropped by England from the second Test against the West Indies</a> after he was found to have breached the protocols. The ECB announced the decision only hours before the start of the second Test at the Old Trafford in Manchester on Thursday.&nbsp;

While ECB didn’t clarify the nature of the violation but as per media reports, the Barbados-born 25-year-old had exited the bio-secure bubble to go to his flat in Brighton following the series opener in Southampton.&nbsp;

<h2>This could have been a disaster: Giles</h2>

“This could have been a disaster. The ripple effect this could have had through the whole summer could have cost us tens of millions of pounds,” Giles said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-have-no-sympathy-at-all-michael-holding-lashes-out-at-jofra-archer-questions-ecbs-bio-secure-protocols-313783" hreflang="en">'I have no sympathy at all' - Michael Holding lashes out at Jofra Archer, questions ECB's 'bio-secure' protocols</a>

“The potential knock-on effect I don’t think he could have understood. He’s a young man, young men make mistakes. He has to learn from them.”

Archer, who has since apologized for his mistake, has started a five-day isolation period and will have two COVID-19 tests. England coach Chris Silverwood is of the view that the player would receive plenty of support. &nbsp;

“He knows he has done that and we will support him the best we can,” Silverwood said.

“He’s got five days stuck in a hotel room, so we’ve got to make sure he’s alright from a well-being point of view, that we look after him.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-uae-keeping-itself-ready-in-case-the-call-comes-from-bcci-313951" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: UAE keeping itself ready in case the call comes from BCCI</a>

In the absence of Archer, England opted to field the troika of Stuart Broad, Chris Woakes and Sam Curran with Ben Stokes being the fourth seamer in the team.&nbsp;

England were invited to bat first and the hosts enjoyed a superb day on the field on Day 1 as they ended up posting 207/3 with Dom Sibley and Stokes at the crease. 
&nbsp;

English speedster Jofra Archer’s breach of bio-secure protocols could have led to a “disaster” and ended up costing the England and Wales Cricket Board tens of millions of pounds, ECB director of cricket Ashley Giles has said.

English speedster Jofra Archer’s breach of bio-secure protocols could have led to a “disaster” and ended up costing the England and Wales Cricket Board tens of millions of pounds, ECB director of cricket Ashley Giles has said. Archer was dropped by England from the second Test against the West Indies after he was found to have breached the protocols. The ECB announced the decision only hours before the start of the second Test at the Old Trafford in Manchester on Thursday. While ECB didn’t clarify the nature of the violation but as per media reports, the Barbados-born 25-year-old had exited the bio-secure bubble to go to his flat in Brighton following the series opener in Southampton. This could have been a disaster: Giles “This could have been a disaster. The ripple effect this could have had through the whole summer could have cost us tens of millions of pounds,” Giles said. ALSO READ: 'I have no sympathy at all' - Michael Holding lashes out at Jofra Archer, questions ECB's 'bio-secure' protocols “The potential knock-on effect I don’t think he could have understood. He’s a young man, young men make mistakes. He has to learn from them.” Archer, who has since apologized for his mistake, has started a five-day isolation period and will have two COVID-19 tests. England coach Chris Silverwood is of the view that the player would receive plenty of support. “He knows he has done that and we will support him the best we can,” Silverwood said. “He’s got five days stuck in a hotel room, so we’ve got to make sure he’s alright from a well-being point of view, that we look after him.” ALSO READ: IPL 2020: UAE keeping itself ready in case the call comes from BCCI In the absence of Archer, England opted to field the troika of Stuart Broad, Chris Woakes and Sam Curran with Ben Stokes being the fourth seamer in the team. England were invited to bat first and the hosts enjoyed a superb day on the field on Day 1 as they ended up posting 207/3 with Dom Sibley and Stokes at the crease.

Jofra Archer's breach could have cost ECB millions, says Ashley Giles

As speculations continue to grow that the currently suspended <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">Indian Premier league (IPL) 2020</a> could be held in the UAE due to rising caseload of COVID-19 in India, Dubai Sports City’s Head of Cricket and Events Salman Hanif has said that they are keeping the stadiums and facilities ready in case the BCCI takes the call to move the cash-rich tournament abroad.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">IPL</a> is looking at the September-early November window and with the T20 World Cup 2020 likely to be postponed, the BCCI might look to shift the 13th edition of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">IP</a>L to the UAE.

Speaking to ‘Gulf News’ Hanif said that the Dubai Sports City, which included the Dubai International Stadium and the ICC Academy, is ready a potential venue for the glitzy T20 league.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-apex-council-meeting-on-friday-ipl-2020-revamped-ftp-domestic-calendar-on-11-point-agenda-313706" hreflang="en">BCCI Apex Council meeting on Friday: IPL 2020, revamped FTP, domestic calendar on 11-point agenda</a>

“The stadium has nine wickets on the top in case a large number of matches have to be accommodated within a smaller time-frame. We will not be scheduling any matches there to keep the wickets fresh,” said Hanif.

While case count in India has crossed the 10 lakh-mark, including over 25,000 deaths, the UAE has recorded more than 50,000 cases with over 300 deaths.&nbsp;

BCCI president Sourav Ganguly has already said that the board is keen to conduct the IPL even if has to be moved abroad. And if the IPL manages to book the September-November window for itself, the eight franchises would want their players to land in the UAE a bit early in a bid to earn time for practice.&nbsp;

“The practice facilities are never going to be a problem as we have hosted multi-team events before. In the ICC complex alone, there are 38 wickets – spread over the two Oval grounds, the simulated turf wickets as well as the state-of-the-art indoor facilities in case they want to beat the heat,” Hanif said. 
&nbsp;

As speculations continue to grow that the currently suspended Indian Premier league (IPL) 2020 could be held in the UAE due to rising caseload of COVID-19 in India, Dubai Sports City’s Head of Cricket and Events Salman Hanif has said that they are keeping the stadiums and facilities ready in case the BCCI takes the call to move the cash-rich tournament abroad.

As speculations continue to grow that the currently suspended Indian Premier league (IPL) 2020 could be held in the UAE due to rising caseload of COVID-19 in India, Dubai Sports City’s Head of Cricket and Events Salman Hanif has said that they are keeping the stadiums and facilities ready in case the BCCI takes the call to move the cash-rich tournament abroad. The IPL is looking at the September-early November window and with the T20 World Cup 2020 likely to be postponed, the BCCI might look to shift the 13th edition of IPL to the UAE. Speaking to ‘Gulf News’ Hanif said that the Dubai Sports City, which included the Dubai International Stadium and the ICC Academy, is ready a potential venue for the glitzy T20 league. ALSO READ: BCCI Apex Council meeting on Friday: IPL 2020, revamped FTP, domestic calendar on 11-point agenda “The stadium has nine wickets on the top in case a large number of matches have to be accommodated within a smaller time-frame. We will not be scheduling any matches there to keep the wickets fresh,” said Hanif. While case count in India has crossed the 10 lakh-mark, including over 25,000 deaths, the UAE has recorded more than 50,000 cases with over 300 deaths. BCCI president Sourav Ganguly has already said that the board is keen to conduct the IPL even if has to be moved abroad. And if the IPL manages to book the September-November window for itself, the eight franchises would want their players to land in the UAE a bit early in a bid to earn time for practice. “The practice facilities are never going to be a problem as we have hosted multi-team events before. In the ICC complex alone, there are 38 wickets – spread over the two Oval grounds, the simulated turf wickets as well as the state-of-the-art indoor facilities in case they want to beat the heat,” Hanif said.

IPL 2020: UAE keeping itself ready in case the call comes from BCCI

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly on Wednesday went into home quarantine after his elder brother and Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) joint secretary Snehasish Ganguly tested positive for coronavirus.&nbsp;

Snehasis, a former Bengal first-class player, has been admitted to the Belle Vue hospital in Kolkata after his COVID-19 report came positive. &nbsp;As per a CAB official, Snehashish was suffering from fever for the last few days and as per health protocols, Sourav will have to maintain home quarantine for a stipulated period.

“He was suffering from fever for the last few days and his test report came positive today. He’s been admitted to Belle Vue Hospital,” a CAB official told PTI.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-wi-2nd-test-england-captain-root-returns-as-west-indies-eye-series-win-313635" hreflang="en">ENG vs WI 2nd Test: England captain Root returns as West Indies eye series win</a>

“The reports arrived late in the evening. As per health protocols, even Sourav will have to be in home quarantine for a stipulated period,” a source close to the BCCI President added.

Snehasish shifted to their ancestral house in Behala, West Bengal, where Sourav is based after his wife and in-laws at his Mominpur residence tested positive for COVID-19.

However, the former India skipper was unavailable to comment on the development.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-southampton-test-erased-swing-doubts-says-ball-maker-313470" hreflang="en">Cricket: Southampton test erased swing doubts, says ball-maker</a>

Earlier, Sourav, in an interview, had said that his brother visits their factory every day and is at more risk to contract the dreaded virus. He also admitted that more than half of his eight-month tenure as the BCCI president has passed while working from home due to country-wide lockdown restriction and quarantine protocols.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, there are reports surfacing that the BCCI is looking at a training camp for all the contracted players in Dubai as preparations for Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 picks up pace. A final call on the T20 World Cup 2020 is expected to come out on July 17 after the ICC Board meeting. 
&nbsp;

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly on Wednesday went into home quarantine after his elder brother and Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) joint secretary Snehasish Ganguly tested positive for coronavirus.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly on Wednesday went into home quarantine after his elder brother and Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) joint secretary Snehasish Ganguly tested positive for coronavirus. Snehasis, a former Bengal first-class player, has been admitted to the Belle Vue hospital in Kolkata after his COVID-19 report came positive. As per a CAB official, Snehashish was suffering from fever for the last few days and as per health protocols, Sourav will have to maintain home quarantine for a stipulated period. “He was suffering from fever for the last few days and his test report came positive today. He’s been admitted to Belle Vue Hospital,” a CAB official told PTI. ALSO READ: ENG vs WI 2nd Test: England captain Root returns as West Indies eye series win “The reports arrived late in the evening. As per health protocols, even Sourav will have to be in home quarantine for a stipulated period,” a source close to the BCCI President added. Snehasish shifted to their ancestral house in Behala, West Bengal, where Sourav is based after his wife and in-laws at his Mominpur residence tested positive for COVID-19. However, the former India skipper was unavailable to comment on the development. ALSO READ: Cricket: Southampton test erased swing doubts, says ball-maker Earlier, Sourav, in an interview, had said that his brother visits their factory every day and is at more risk to contract the dreaded virus. He also admitted that more than half of his eight-month tenure as the BCCI president has passed while working from home due to country-wide lockdown restriction and quarantine protocols. Meanwhile, there are reports surfacing that the BCCI is looking at a training camp for all the contracted players in Dubai as preparations for Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 picks up pace. A final call on the T20 World Cup 2020 is expected to come out on July 17 after the ICC Board meeting.

Sourav Ganguly under home quarantine after elder brother Snehasis tests positive for COVID-19

Arsenal capitalised on shocking errors from Liverpool’s Virgil van Dijk and Alisson to beat the champions 2-1 at The Emirates on Wednesday and end their hopes of a record points tally for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> season.

The loss means Liverpool, on 93 points, can now only stretch that tally to 99, one short of Manchester City’s record. Arsenal’s first win against Liverpool since April 2015 lifts them one place to ninth in the table on 53 points.

The visitors created all the early pressure and opened the scoring in the 20th minute when Sadio Mane lashed in his 17th goal of the season from close range.

Yet the home side, playing without their leading scorer Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, were handed a free pass back into the game 12 minutes later when Van Dijk made a back pass straight into the path of Arsenal striker Alexandre Lacazette.

The Frenchman calmly rounded defender Fabinho and keeper Alisson and fired into an empty net.

A second moment of calamitous work at the back from Liverpool then gifted the lead to Arsenal before the break, when Alisson attempted a chipped ball out to Robertson that Lacazette ran onto and pulled back to Reiss Nelson.

The 20-year-old turned and shaped his shot beyond the diving keeper into the bottom left corner.

“Twice, a massive lack of concentration... These two moments killed the game for us,” said Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp, whose side suffered only their third league defeat of the season.

“Arsenal had no real chances... You cannot win football games when you concede goals like this.”

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta had left Aubameyang on the bench, most likely with one eye on Saturday’s FA Cup semi-final against Manchester City, which may now be the Gunners’ best chance of securing European football next season.

Yet as Liverpool poured forward after the break and created numerous chances, the best of which from Salah was palmed over the bar at the last second by keeper Emiliano Martinez, Arteta responded.

He shored up his side with a triple substitution, bringing off both his goalscorers and Lucas Torreira and replacing them with Aubameyang, Dani Ceballos and Joe Willock.

Klopp then took off Firmino and brought on Takumi Minamino, who had an almost immediate shout for a penalty after coming into contact with Kieran Tierney in front of the Arsenal goal.

The visitors kept up the pressure but despite at times driving almost the entire Arsenal team back into their own penalty area, they were unable to find a way through.

“In terms of energy and happiness in the dressing room before the (FA Cup) semi-final, it’s a good medicine,” Arteta said.

“To beat this team you have to have moments in the game when you take your chances, defend and have a bit of luck.”

Arsenal capitalised on shocking errors from Liverpool’s Virgil van Dijk and Alisson to beat the champions 2-1 at The Emirates on Wednesday and end their hopes of a record points tally for the Premier League season.

Arsenal capitalised on shocking errors from Liverpool’s Virgil van Dijk and Alisson to beat the champions 2-1 at The Emirates on Wednesday and end their hopes of a record points tally for the Premier League season. The loss means Liverpool, on 93 points, can now only stretch that tally to 99, one short of Manchester City’s record. Arsenal’s first win against Liverpool since April 2015 lifts them one place to ninth in the table on 53 points. The visitors created all the early pressure and opened the scoring in the 20th minute when Sadio Mane lashed in his 17th goal of the season from close range. Yet the home side, playing without their leading scorer Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, were handed a free pass back into the game 12 minutes later when Van Dijk made a back pass straight into the path of Arsenal striker Alexandre Lacazette. The Frenchman calmly rounded defender Fabinho and keeper Alisson and fired into an empty net. A second moment of calamitous work at the back from Liverpool then gifted the lead to Arsenal before the break, when Alisson attempted a chipped ball out to Robertson that Lacazette ran onto and pulled back to Reiss Nelson. The 20-year-old turned and shaped his shot beyond the diving keeper into the bottom left corner. “Twice, a massive lack of concentration... These two moments killed the game for us,” said Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp, whose side suffered only their third league defeat of the season. “Arsenal had no real chances... You cannot win football games when you concede goals like this.” Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta had left Aubameyang on the bench, most likely with one eye on Saturday’s FA Cup semi-final against Manchester City, which may now be the Gunners’ best chance of securing European football next season. Yet as Liverpool poured forward after the break and created numerous chances, the best of which from Salah was palmed over the bar at the last second by keeper Emiliano Martinez, Arteta responded. He shored up his side with a triple substitution, bringing off both his goalscorers and Lucas Torreira and replacing them with Aubameyang, Dani Ceballos and Joe Willock. Klopp then took off Firmino and brought on Takumi Minamino, who had an almost immediate shout for a penalty after coming into contact with Kieran Tierney in front of the Arsenal goal. The visitors kept up the pressure but despite at times driving almost the entire Arsenal team back into their own penalty area, they were unable to find a way through. “In terms of energy and happiness in the dressing room before the (FA Cup) semi-final, it’s a good medicine,” Arteta said. “To beat this team you have to have moments in the game when you take your chances, defend and have a bit of luck.”

Premier League: Arsenal beat Liverpool 2-1 to end hopes of record points haul

Four days after one of his most consummate and memorable triumphs, Lewis Hamilton returns to one of his favourite circuits this weekend with more than another Formula One record in his sights.

As he prepares for the Hungarian Grand Prix at the tight and twisty Hungaroring circuit, 25 kilometres north of Budapest, the six-time world champion will draw on his experience and his momentum as he pursues twin goals of a seventh drivers' title and making lasting progress in the global anti-racism campaign for equality, diversity and justice.

Hamilton has enjoyed seven previous victories in Hungary and on Sunday can draw level with Michael Schumacher's landmark of claiming eight at the same Grand Prix.

Schumacher reeled off eight triumphs at the French Grand Prix, at Magny Cours, between 1994 and 2006, a feat that Hamilton hopes to emulate.

"Whenever I am reminded of the records that Michael had, it's just still mind-blowing to me," said Hamilton when he looked ahead to the Budapest weekend following his victory at the Styrian Grand Prix last Sunday.&nbsp;

"I've always loved it, Hungary.

"Budapest and Montreal you'd probably say have been my strongest so I'm excited to go back -- it is a track where the Red Bulls usually do well so it's not going to be easy."

Red Bull's Max Verstappen seeks to end Mercedes' winning start to the COVID-19 delayed season and prevent the champion team completing a season-opening hat-trick.

The Dutchman came home third behind Hamilton and his Mercedes team-mate Valtteri Bottas, who won the season-opener at the Red Bull Ring, on Sunday and admitted he did not have the outright speed to match them.

His team boss Christian Horner, however, believes Red Bull can close that gap at the slower Hungaroring, but Verstappen is less certain.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"I don't know," he said. "But, for sure, I hope it's going to be better."

<h2>- Ferrari under fire -</h2>

Behind Red Bull's expected bid to catch Mercedes, there could be a closely-fought scrap as under-performing and under-pressure Ferrari seeking some solace after a bruising weekend last time out.

The Italian team's involvement lasted only three corners at the Red Bull Ring before their drivers collided, leaving them as red-faced as their cars.

Four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel, linked with a switch to Aston Martin-Racing Point next season after being told this is his last year at Ferrari, retained his dignity as Charles Leclerc accepted the blame and apologised immediately.

"At least I don't have to wait long to be back in the car so let's hope Hungary is better for us," said Vettel, humbled by events that have left team chief Mattia Binotto under fierce criticism in Italy.

Binotto said Ferrari were losing a second a lap to Mercedes in Austria, an admission that exasperated the team's fans and the Italian media.

Former Ferrari boss Ross Brawn, who oversaw Schumacher's five titles with Ferrari, observed: "They aren't going to turn it around overnight and there's a long road ahead. They need to find out if there is a fundamental problem with the car –- and they need to find out fast –- because clearly they are some way off the pace."

As at the previous two weekends, the race will be run behind closed doors and under very strict protocols with the Hungarian government insisting all involved, but notably those from outside the European Union, must stay in their hotels except when going to the circuit or the airport.

"These restrictions apply from the moment you enter Hungary," said Mercedes boss Toto Wolff.

"We are going to enter late as nobody wants to be stuck in a hotel room from Monday to Thursday before we go to the track –- and so we will maintain our bubble in Austria.

"And we are making no differences for nationalities. We are trying to be at the forefront in Formula One's fight for equality and no discrimination, so the last thing we would do is give anyone privileges."

Four days after one of his most consummate and memorable triumphs, Lewis Hamilton returns to one of his favourite circuits this weekend with more than another Formula One record in his sights.

Four days after one of his most consummate and memorable triumphs, Lewis Hamilton returns to one of his favourite circuits this weekend with more than another Formula One record in his sights. As he prepares for the Hungarian Grand Prix at the tight and twisty Hungaroring circuit, 25 kilometres north of Budapest, the six-time world champion will draw on his experience and his momentum as he pursues twin goals of a seventh drivers' title and making lasting progress in the global anti-racism campaign for equality, diversity and justice. Hamilton has enjoyed seven previous victories in Hungary and on Sunday can draw level with Michael Schumacher's landmark of claiming eight at the same Grand Prix. Schumacher reeled off eight triumphs at the French Grand Prix, at Magny Cours, between 1994 and 2006, a feat that Hamilton hopes to emulate. "Whenever I am reminded of the records that Michael had, it's just still mind-blowing to me," said Hamilton when he looked ahead to the Budapest weekend following his victory at the Styrian Grand Prix last Sunday. "I've always loved it, Hungary. "Budapest and Montreal you'd probably say have been my strongest so I'm excited to go back -- it is a track where the Red Bulls usually do well so it's not going to be easy." Red Bull's Max Verstappen seeks to end Mercedes' winning start to the COVID-19 delayed season and prevent the champion team completing a season-opening hat-trick. The Dutchman came home third behind Hamilton and his Mercedes team-mate Valtteri Bottas, who won the season-opener at the Red Bull Ring, on Sunday and admitted he did not have the outright speed to match them. His team boss Christian Horner, however, believes Red Bull can close that gap at the slower Hungaroring, but Verstappen is less certain. "I don't know," he said. "But, for sure, I hope it's going to be better." - Ferrari under fire - Behind Red Bull's expected bid to catch Mercedes, there could be a closely-fought scrap as under-performing and under-pressure Ferrari seeking some solace after a bruising weekend last time out. The Italian team's involvement lasted only three corners at the Red Bull Ring before their drivers collided, leaving them as red-faced as their cars. Four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel, linked with a switch to Aston Martin-Racing Point next season after being told this is his last year at Ferrari, retained his dignity as Charles Leclerc accepted the blame and apologised immediately. "At least I don't have to wait long to be back in the car so let's hope Hungary is better for us," said Vettel, humbled by events that have left team chief Mattia Binotto under fierce criticism in Italy. Binotto said Ferrari were losing a second a lap to Mercedes in Austria, an admission that exasperated the team's fans and the Italian media. Former Ferrari boss Ross Brawn, who oversaw Schumacher's five titles with Ferrari, observed: "They aren't going to turn it around overnight and there's a long road ahead. They need to find out if there is a fundamental problem with the car –- and they need to find out fast –- because clearly they are some way off the pace." As at the previous two weekends, the race will be run behind closed doors and under very strict protocols with the Hungarian government insisting all involved, but notably those from outside the European Union, must stay in their hotels except when going to the circuit or the airport. "These restrictions apply from the moment you enter Hungary," said Mercedes boss Toto Wolff. "We are going to enter late as nobody wants to be stuck in a hotel room from Monday to Thursday before we go to the track –- and so we will maintain our bubble in Austria. "And we are making no differences for nationalities. We are trying to be at the forefront in Formula One's fight for equality and no discrimination, so the last thing we would do is give anyone privileges."

Hamilton wants racing records, racial justice ahead of Hungarian GP

West Indies have had a splendid start to the three-match Test series against England as the visitors took a 1-0 lead by defeating the hosts at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton. While the performance by Shannon Gabriel, Jason Holder, Kemar Roach and Alzarri Joseph was praised by everyone, another young speedster is waiting to burst into the international scene – Chemar Holder.&nbsp;

Chemar first made his mark in the 2016 Under-19 World Cup where he put up inspiring performances in the semi-final and final to help Windies bag the coveted trophy. Since then, he has been mighty impressive in the domestic circuit where the 22-year-old has picked up a staggering 76 wickets in just 19 matches at an average of 24.23. Chemar made his debut for West Indies A in 2018 and has been knocking on the door to grab his Test cap for the West Indies.&nbsp;

In an exclusive interview with WION, Chemar Holder opened up on the ongoing England vs West Indies Test series, his sensational rise through the ranks, Jason Holder’s leadership, love for his idol Sir Curtly Ambrose and much more.&nbsp;

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Here are the excerpts:&nbsp;

Subhayan Chakraborty: Hello Chemar, thanks for joining. A big win in the first Test and the West Indies are heading into the second Test with a 1-0 lead. How is the feeling in the camp?

Chemar Holder:&nbsp;Thanks for having me. It is a very good feeling. We have really worked hard since we came here in the UK and even before that and now we are eagerly looking forward to the other two Test matches.&nbsp;

SC: Chemar, the performance by the West Indies pacers, especially by Shannon Gabriel and Jason Holder, really stood out. So as a youngster, how was it like to witness the experienced guys go about their business from the stands?

Chemar Holder: Well, watching them in person is really mind-blowing and exciting I would say. I have seen the struggles and hard work these guys go through and put in. When they come off in the break, seeing the efforts they are putting and knowing every time they bowl they will give everything for the team. So it is good to see and learn from them.

<img alt="Chemar Holder" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="41b4b007-aa99-45ef-a6a7-baf6ec07b033" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/EdCtYb9XsAIRRHU.jpg" />

SC: A lot of praise coming towards Jason Holder as well. He is the no. one all-rounder and now the number two bowler in Test cricket and has led the team phenomenally well. So how is to have a leader like Jason around? 
Chemar Holder: It is very good to have a person like Jason in the team. I know Jason personally and he is a real hard worker. He is always looking to improve when we play the game of cricket. It is good to have him around. Anything I want to know, he will tell me. We sit down together, we have discussions and he helps me with everything I need.&nbsp;

SC: Chemar, I will now come to your career so far. You have really impressed in the domestic circuit. But there are lot of youngsters who lose their way in trying to attempt too many things at a young age in today’s T20 world. How do you go about your bowling, what is your main focus?

Chemar Holder: I always try and train to the best of my ability. I make sure my rhythm is right, my wrist position and work on where to improve at the nets and move on like that in each and every training session. Also, I try to be patience whenever it comes to the longer format. I try not to get too excited or try too many tricks which could hamper the flow of my bowling.&nbsp;

SC: I believe you have a family background in cricket. Can you tell us something more about it? And what would be the feeling for your family if you go onto make your Test debut for the West Indies in this series?

Chemar Holder: I call it my management team, which is my family. You know, my uncles backed me to play cricket when I was 13 and also my mum, dad and my entire family, they are backing me right now and I know they are happy. When I got the call for this tour and when I told them, they were really happy. We sat and discussed about few things related to the tour. And if I get a chance to make my debut, I know all of them would be watching and smiling.&nbsp;

<img alt="Chemar Holder" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b21a28db-9756-4824-a5ac-38192bf4d3d7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_Hkg10254841.jpg" />

SC: Outside your family, who has been your idol while growing up? West Indies cricket has produced so many legendary fast bowlers, who was your pick when you were a kid?

Chemar Holder: Sir Curtly Ambrose!&nbsp;

SC: Is your nickname Ambi derived from there...&nbsp;

Chemar Holder: Few of the guys call me Ambi due to my love for Sir Curtly Ambrose and also due to my hairstyle and bowling action.

SC: You mentioned your bowling action...There have been comparisons between you and Jofra Archer. How do you take comparison at such a young age?

Chemar Holder: No not at all, I don’t think about that. Everybody is different. I am focusing on what I have to do and I am sure he is doing what he has to do. So no comparisons at all.&nbsp;

<img alt="Chemar Holder" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b8424fbc-9943-44a8-a8e1-b99c65359b1e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/d4e0ebb1be942865ec91562b5a279980.jpg" />

SC: Chemar, a lot of talks surrounding the saliva ban as well. You guys have been practicing without the saliva for around a month now. How has been the experience? Is there any difference?

Chemar Holder: Yes, there is a big difference!&nbsp;You know, there would be some spots in the ball which you need to polish. But we cannot put the saliva to keep the ball nice and shiny on one side. But there have been no such problems so far and we have been trying to polish it by rubbing it and using the sweat, given we continue to get it as England get sometimes cold. But bowling without using saliva has been going very good so far.&nbsp;

SC: So Chemar, you are now sharing the dressing room with the experienced players like Shannon Gabriel, Kemar Roach or for that matter Jason Holder. So have you been picking their brains?

Chemar Holder: I have had some one on one sessions with them. I ask a few questions and they even come to me and we talk about cricket or anything else. So it is good to have experienced guys around me who can help me grow as a cricketer.

<img alt="Chemar Holder" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5bb52361-5673-4331-80c1-5ee2b127a067" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/skysports-chemar-holder-west-indies_5023298.jpg" />

SC: What would be your message to the fans, who have been unable to come to the stadium and are watching from their home?

Chemar Holder: I would just ask him to keep watching, you know. &nbsp;We know that they are watching from all over the world and tuning into their TVs even though they are not present here. Also, stay safe, remain focus on following the protocols and soon you all be able to come to the stadiums and watch live cricket.&nbsp;

West Indies have had a splendid start to the three-match Test series against England as the visitors took a 1-0 lead by defeating the hosts at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton.

West Indies have had a splendid start to the three-match Test series against England as the visitors took a 1-0 lead by defeating the hosts at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton. While the performance by Shannon Gabriel, Jason Holder, Kemar Roach and Alzarri Joseph was praised by everyone, another young speedster is waiting to burst into the international scene – Chemar Holder. Chemar first made his mark in the 2016 Under-19 World Cup where he put up inspiring performances in the semi-final and final to help Windies bag the coveted trophy. Since then, he has been mighty impressive in the domestic circuit where the 22-year-old has picked up a staggering 76 wickets in just 19 matches at an average of 24.23. Chemar made his debut for West Indies A in 2018 and has been knocking on the door to grab his Test cap for the West Indies. In an exclusive interview with WION, Chemar Holder opened up on the ongoing England vs West Indies Test series, his sensational rise through the ranks, Jason Holder’s leadership, love for his idol Sir Curtly Ambrose and much more. × Here are the excerpts: Subhayan Chakraborty: Hello Chemar, thanks for joining. A big win in the first Test and the West Indies are heading into the second Test with a 1-0 lead. How is the feeling in the camp? Chemar Holder: Thanks for having me. It is a very good feeling. We have really worked hard since we came here in the UK and even before that and now we are eagerly looking forward to the other two Test matches. SC: Chemar, the performance by the West Indies pacers, especially by Shannon Gabriel and Jason Holder, really stood out. So as a youngster, how was it like to witness the experienced guys go about their business from the stands? Chemar Holder: Well, watching them in person is really mind-blowing and exciting I would say. I have seen the struggles and hard work these guys go through and put in. When they come off in the break, seeing the efforts they are putting and knowing every time they bowl they will give everything for the team. So it is good to see and learn from them. SC: A lot of praise coming towards Jason Holder as well. He is the no. one all-rounder and now the number two bowler in Test cricket and has led the team phenomenally well. So how is to have a leader like Jason around? Chemar Holder: It is very good to have a person like Jason in the team. I know Jason personally and he is a real hard worker. He is always looking to improve when we play the game of cricket. It is good to have him around. Anything I want to know, he will tell me. We sit down together, we have discussions and he helps me with everything I need. SC: Chemar, I will now come to your career so far. You have really impressed in the domestic circuit. But there are lot of youngsters who lose their way in trying to attempt too many things at a young age in today’s T20 world. How do you go about your bowling, what is your main focus? Chemar Holder: I always try and train to the best of my ability. I make sure my rhythm is right, my wrist position and work on where to improve at the nets and move on like that in each and every training session. Also, I try to be patience whenever it comes to the longer format. I try not to get too excited or try too many tricks which could hamper the flow of my bowling. SC: I believe you have a family background in cricket. Can you tell us something more about it? And what would be the feeling for your family if you go onto make your Test debut for the West Indies in this series? Chemar Holder: I call it my management team, which is my family. You know, my uncles backed me to play cricket when I was 13 and also my mum, dad and my entire family, they are backing me right now and I know they are happy. When I got the call for this tour and when I told them, they were really happy. We sat and discussed about few things related to the tour. And if I get a chance to make my debut, I know all of them would be watching and smiling. SC: Outside your family, who has been your idol while growing up? West Indies cricket has produced so many legendary fast bowlers, who was your pick when you were a kid? Chemar Holder: Sir Curtly Ambrose! SC: Is your nickname Ambi derived from there... Chemar Holder: Few of the guys call me Ambi due to my love for Sir Curtly Ambrose and also due to my hairstyle and bowling action. SC: You mentioned your bowling action...There have been comparisons between you and Jofra Archer. How do you take comparison at such a young age? Chemar Holder: No not at all, I don’t think about that. Everybody is different. I am focusing on what I have to do and I am sure he is doing what he has to do. So no comparisons at all. SC: Chemar, a lot of talks surrounding the saliva ban as well. You guys have been practicing without the saliva for around a month now. How has been the experience? Is there any difference? Chemar Holder: Yes, there is a big difference! You know, there would be some spots in the ball which you need to polish. But we cannot put the saliva to keep the ball nice and shiny on one side. But there have been no such problems so far and we have been trying to polish it by rubbing it and using the sweat, given we continue to get it as England get sometimes cold. But bowling without using saliva has been going very good so far. SC: So Chemar, you are now sharing the dressing room with the experienced players like Shannon Gabriel, Kemar Roach or for that matter Jason Holder. So have you been picking their brains? Chemar Holder: I have had some one on one sessions with them. I ask a few questions and they even come to me and we talk about cricket or anything else. So it is good to have experienced guys around me who can help me grow as a cricketer. SC: What would be your message to the fans, who have been unable to come to the stadium and are watching from their home? Chemar Holder: I would just ask him to keep watching, you know. We know that they are watching from all over the world and tuning into their TVs even though they are not present here. Also, stay safe, remain focus on following the protocols and soon you all be able to come to the stadiums and watch live cricket.

Interview: Chemar Holder opens up about his splendid rise, Jason Holder's leadership and more

England pacer Jofra Archer was excluded from the squad just ahead of the second Test as he was f<a href="ENG vs WI: Jofra Archer dropped from 2nd Test for breaching team’s bio-secure protocols">ound guilty of breaching bio-secure protocols set by the England Cricket Board (ECB)</a>. Archer reportedly visited his home on his way from Southampton to Manchester before the second Test, which commenced on Thursday at the Old Trafford.&nbsp;

Former West Indies pacer Michael Holding has now slammed Archer for breaking the protocols while questioning ECB’s stance of allowing the players to travel to stadiums by their own cars rather than a team coach/bus.&nbsp;

Archer has now been asked to self-isolate and the English speedster will undergo two COVID-19 tests and if the reports come out negative then only he will be allowed to join the squad and be available for selection for the third Test.&nbsp;

Holding lambasted Archer for breaching team’s bio-secure protocols while adding he has no sympathy with Archer for his actions.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/in-a-covid-twist-pak-spinner-kashif-bhatti-rejoins-squad-after-testing-negative-313753" hreflang="en">In a COVID twist, Pak spinner Kashif Bhatti rejoins squad after testing negative</a>

"I have no sympathy at all. I don't understand why people can't just do what is required," Holding said on Sky Sports.

"Talking about sacrifices - Nelson Mandela spent 27 years in a little cell and he did nothing wrong - that is a sacrifice," he added.

Holding also questioned the England Cricket Board for their 'illogical' bio-secure protocols.&nbsp;

"I just want to ask a few questions of the ECB and these protocols, though. I understand that protocols should be put in place but they should be a little bit more logical," Holding said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-pak-can-pakistan-defeat-england-in-the-test-series-ramiz-raja-gives-his-take-313738" hreflang="en">Can Pakistan defeat England in the Test series? Ramiz Raja gives his take</a>

"Why aren't the England team travelling on a bus? If they have already passed the Covid test and everyone is together, they have six matches and are moving from one venue to another, why aren't they just all on a bus? Why are they allowed to travel by car? People need to just think a bit," he added.

England headed into the second Test trailing by 1-0 and the Joe Root-led side would be looking to get back to winning ways and equalize the series. 
&nbsp;

England pacer Jofra Archer was excluded from the squad just ahead of the second Test as he was found guilty of breaching bio-secure protocols set by the England Cricket Board (ECB).

England pacer Jofra Archer was excluded from the squad just ahead of the second Test as he was found guilty of breaching bio-secure protocols set by the England Cricket Board (ECB). Archer reportedly visited his home on his way from Southampton to Manchester before the second Test, which commenced on Thursday at the Old Trafford. Former West Indies pacer Michael Holding has now slammed Archer for breaking the protocols while questioning ECB’s stance of allowing the players to travel to stadiums by their own cars rather than a team coach/bus. Archer has now been asked to self-isolate and the English speedster will undergo two COVID-19 tests and if the reports come out negative then only he will be allowed to join the squad and be available for selection for the third Test. Holding lambasted Archer for breaching team’s bio-secure protocols while adding he has no sympathy with Archer for his actions. ALSO READ: In a COVID twist, Pak spinner Kashif Bhatti rejoins squad after testing negative "I have no sympathy at all. I don't understand why people can't just do what is required," Holding said on Sky Sports. "Talking about sacrifices - Nelson Mandela spent 27 years in a little cell and he did nothing wrong - that is a sacrifice," he added. Holding also questioned the England Cricket Board for their 'illogical' bio-secure protocols. "I just want to ask a few questions of the ECB and these protocols, though. I understand that protocols should be put in place but they should be a little bit more logical," Holding said. ALSO READ: Can Pakistan defeat England in the Test series? Ramiz Raja gives his take "Why aren't the England team travelling on a bus? If they have already passed the Covid test and everyone is together, they have six matches and are moving from one venue to another, why aren't they just all on a bus? Why are they allowed to travel by car? People need to just think a bit," he added. England headed into the second Test trailing by 1-0 and the Joe Root-led side would be looking to get back to winning ways and equalize the series.

'I have no sympathy at all' - Michael Holding lashes out at Jofra Archer, questions ECB's 'bio-secure' protocols

Former Pakistan captain Ramiz Raja is of the view that the Azhar Ali-led side is capable of defeating in England and will feel confident of their chances after witnessing the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-vs-west-indies-1st-test-blackwood-gabriel-steal-show-as-visitors-take-1-0-lead-in-series-312816">West Indies run past the hosts in the first Test</a> of the ongoing three-match Test series.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-vs-west-indies-1st-test-blackwood-gabriel-steal-show-as-visitors-take-1-0-lead-in-series-312816">Jason Holder and Co defeated England by four wickets</a> while taking a 1-0 lead in the series. Raja said that England lack depth in the batting line-up and can be easily put under pressure by good performance with the ball.&nbsp;

"Pakistan will feel confident after watching the West Indies' performance (in the first Test). They will be feeling this England team can be defeated. Their batting doesn't seem strong, however, the return of Joe Root will definitely help them," Ramiz said during a fan interaction on his YouTube channel 'Ramiz Speaks'.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-apex-council-meeting-on-friday-ipl-2020-revamped-ftp-domestic-calendar-on-11-point-agenda-313706" hreflang="en">BCCI Apex Council meeting on Friday: IPL 2020, revamped FTP, domestic calendar on 11-point agenda</a>

"But I still feel this England batting line-up is capable of making mistakes. They have a world-class all-rounder in Ben Stokes in their ranks but rest can be put under pressure."

Pakistan are slated to play England in a series of three Tests and as many T20Is following the West Indies series. While the matches will be continued to play behind closed doors, Raja reckons that absence of local English crowed will be an added advantage for Pakistan.&nbsp;

"There won't be any home crowd advantage for them. During crunch moments, support for the home team is very important. Pakistan now knows that if they play sensibly in England they can beat them," Raja said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-southampton-test-erased-swing-doubts-says-ball-maker-313470" hreflang="en">Cricket: Southampton test erased swing doubts, says ball-maker</a>

The first Test between England and Pakistan is slated to start in Manchester from August 5 whereas the final two matches are to be played in Southampton from August 13 and 21 respectively.

The three T20Is will be played at the Old Trafford in Manchester on August 28, 30 and September 1 respectively.&nbsp;

Former Pakistan captain Ramiz Raja is of the view that the Azhar Ali-led side is capable of defeating in England and will feel confident of their chances after witnessing the West Indies run past the hosts in the first Test of the ongoing three-match Test series.

Former Pakistan captain Ramiz Raja is of the view that the Azhar Ali-led side is capable of defeating in England and will feel confident of their chances after witnessing the West Indies run past the hosts in the first Test of the ongoing three-match Test series. Jason Holder and Co defeated England by four wickets while taking a 1-0 lead in the series. Raja said that England lack depth in the batting line-up and can be easily put under pressure by good performance with the ball. "Pakistan will feel confident after watching the West Indies' performance (in the first Test). They will be feeling this England team can be defeated. Their batting doesn't seem strong, however, the return of Joe Root will definitely help them," Ramiz said during a fan interaction on his YouTube channel 'Ramiz Speaks'. ALSO READ: BCCI Apex Council meeting on Friday: IPL 2020, revamped FTP, domestic calendar on 11-point agenda "But I still feel this England batting line-up is capable of making mistakes. They have a world-class all-rounder in Ben Stokes in their ranks but rest can be put under pressure." Pakistan are slated to play England in a series of three Tests and as many T20Is following the West Indies series. While the matches will be continued to play behind closed doors, Raja reckons that absence of local English crowed will be an added advantage for Pakistan. "There won't be any home crowd advantage for them. During crunch moments, support for the home team is very important. Pakistan now knows that if they play sensibly in England they can beat them," Raja said. ALSO READ: Cricket: Southampton test erased swing doubts, says ball-maker The first Test between England and Pakistan is slated to start in Manchester from August 5 whereas the final two matches are to be played in Southampton from August 13 and 21 respectively. The three T20Is will be played at the Old Trafford in Manchester on August 28, 30 and September 1 respectively.

Can Pakistan defeat England in the Test series? Ramiz Raja gives his take

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a> will be the topmost agenda of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Apex Council, which is set to meet virtually on Friday. The rising cases of COVID-19 has left the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">IPL</a> hanging in balance but the BCCI is optimistic of conducting the tournament, either in India or abroad.

As per a report in PTI, the 11-point agenda will surround the domestic cricket season, which is likely to see a truncated version considering the rising COVID-19 caseload in the country. Another major point that will be discussed is the rejigging of the Future Tours and Programme (FTP) of the men’s cricket team with three series (against Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe and England) already cancelled. &nbsp;

While the BCCI has zeroed in on a September to early November window for IPL, the Council will discuss the roadmap for the tournament, which currently stands indefinitely postponed amid the uncertainty surrounding the dreaded virus.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealand-offering-to-host-ipl-2020-is-speculation-nzc-spokesperson-311880" hreflang="en">New Zealand offering to host IPL 2020 is speculation: NZC spokesperson</a>

"Obviously, all options need to be explored. First option is India but you don't how the situation will be. Obviously, there is UAE and Sri Lanka but taking out the IPL will increase the overheads. I think the president also recently said that," a senior BCCI official told PTI on condition of anonymity.

"I don't think we are still in a position to fix venues in a situation which is so fluid. But the plans and the tentative window needs to be ready so that once ICC makes a formal announcement of T20 World Cup (scheduled for October-November) cancellation next week, we can proceed," the official said.

Tax exemption for ICC events also in agenda. With ICC Board Meeting scheduled next Monday, the issue of getting tax exemption certificate from the government in order to host the 2021 T20 World Cup is also high on agenda.

The tax exemption for the ICC events has been a bone of contention and BCCI has been given time till December to get the necessary clearances from the central government. As far as India's FTP is concerned, the agenda states that the September white-ball series versus England could be rescheduled in February following the Test series.In case BCCI wants to squeeze in the white ball games, it could well mean that the five-Test series would be curtailed to include six white ball games (3 ODIs and 3 T20Is).

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-wi-jofra-archer-dropped-from-2nd-test-for-breaching-teams-bio-secure-protocols-313649" hreflang="en">ENG vs WI: Jofra Archer dropped from 2nd Test for breaching team’s bio-secure protocols</a>

The postponed white ball tours of Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe also needs to be rescheduled.

One of the biggest headache for BCCI is country's domestic structure which includes, senior men, U-23 men, junior boys (U-19 and U-16), senior women, U-23 women and U-19 girls, constituting thousands of matches across formats.&nbsp;

"Obviously, the Ranji Trophy schedule needs to be tweaked. We need to discuss whether we can have Vijay Hazare, Duleep Trophy, Syed Mushtaq Ali in one go."May be we have to let go one of the tournaments as considerable time would be lost. We have to fit in the junior domestic events," said the official.

Another major issue will be apparel sponsorship as the Nike deal has come to an end. It is expected that BCCI will follow the process of inviting tenders from potential bidders.

Some of the other issues include discussions on Rahul Johri's replacement for CEO's post, grants and subsidies to North Eastern states, NCA operations, recruitment of BCCI staff and administrative mess in Bihar Cricket Association.

<h2>Agenda for Friday</h2>

1) IPL- Way forward

2) Domestic cricket schedules

3) FTP- Rescheduling of the England home series for February, 2021

4) Tax exemption certificates mandatory for hosting the T20 World Cup in India

5) NCA facility in Bengaluru

6) Extension of contract for BCCI &amp; IPL digital platforms

7) Bihar Cricket Association's administrative mess

8) Appointment of new staff in the BCCI

9) Procedure to appoint new CEO after Rahul Johri's resignation

10) Payments to NE states

11) Discussion on Tender for Apparel Partnership.

(With inputs from PTI) 
&nbsp;

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 will be the topmost agenda of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Apex Council, which is set to meet virtually on Friday.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 will be the topmost agenda of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Apex Council, which is set to meet virtually on Friday. The rising cases of COVID-19 has left the IPL hanging in balance but the BCCI is optimistic of conducting the tournament, either in India or abroad. As per a report in PTI, the 11-point agenda will surround the domestic cricket season, which is likely to see a truncated version considering the rising COVID-19 caseload in the country. Another major point that will be discussed is the rejigging of the Future Tours and Programme (FTP) of the men’s cricket team with three series (against Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe and England) already cancelled. While the BCCI has zeroed in on a September to early November window for IPL, the Council will discuss the roadmap for the tournament, which currently stands indefinitely postponed amid the uncertainty surrounding the dreaded virus. ALSO READ: New Zealand offering to host IPL 2020 is speculation: NZC spokesperson "Obviously, all options need to be explored. First option is India but you don't how the situation will be. Obviously, there is UAE and Sri Lanka but taking out the IPL will increase the overheads. I think the president also recently said that," a senior BCCI official told PTI on condition of anonymity. "I don't think we are still in a position to fix venues in a situation which is so fluid. But the plans and the tentative window needs to be ready so that once ICC makes a formal announcement of T20 World Cup (scheduled for October-November) cancellation next week, we can proceed," the official said. Tax exemption for ICC events also in agenda. With ICC Board Meeting scheduled next Monday, the issue of getting tax exemption certificate from the government in order to host the 2021 T20 World Cup is also high on agenda. The tax exemption for the ICC events has been a bone of contention and BCCI has been given time till December to get the necessary clearances from the central government. As far as India's FTP is concerned, the agenda states that the September white-ball series versus England could be rescheduled in February following the Test series.In case BCCI wants to squeeze in the white ball games, it could well mean that the five-Test series would be curtailed to include six white ball games (3 ODIs and 3 T20Is). ALSO READ: ENG vs WI: Jofra Archer dropped from 2nd Test for breaching team’s bio-secure protocols The postponed white ball tours of Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe also needs to be rescheduled. One of the biggest headache for BCCI is country's domestic structure which includes, senior men, U-23 men, junior boys (U-19 and U-16), senior women, U-23 women and U-19 girls, constituting thousands of matches across formats. "Obviously, the Ranji Trophy schedule needs to be tweaked. We need to discuss whether we can have Vijay Hazare, Duleep Trophy, Syed Mushtaq Ali in one go."May be we have to let go one of the tournaments as considerable time would be lost. We have to fit in the junior domestic events," said the official. Another major issue will be apparel sponsorship as the Nike deal has come to an end. It is expected that BCCI will follow the process of inviting tenders from potential bidders. Some of the other issues include discussions on Rahul Johri's replacement for CEO's post, grants and subsidies to North Eastern states, NCA operations, recruitment of BCCI staff and administrative mess in Bihar Cricket Association. Agenda for Friday 1) IPL- Way forward 2) Domestic cricket schedules 3) FTP- Rescheduling of the England home series for February, 2021 4) Tax exemption certificates mandatory for hosting the T20 World Cup in India 5) NCA facility in Bengaluru 6) Extension of contract for BCCI & IPL digital platforms 7) Bihar Cricket Association's administrative mess 8) Appointment of new staff in the BCCI 9) Procedure to appoint new CEO after Rahul Johri's resignation 10) Payments to NE states 11) Discussion on Tender for Apparel Partnership. (With inputs from PTI)

BCCI Apex Council meeting on Friday: IPL 2020, revamped FTP, domestic calendar on 11-point agenda

Porto clinched their 29th Portuguese Primeira Liga title on Wednesday with two games to spare after a 2-0 win over Sporting Lisbon.

Sergio Conceicao's men went into the match needing only a point to secure the league due to their superior head-to-head record over second-placed Benfica.

The victory ensured they won the championship in style, moving eight points clear of last season's champions Benfica who have won a record 37 titles.

Porto only led Benfica by one point when the campaign resumed following the coronavirus lockdown last month, but their old rivals have faltered and coach Bruno Lage was replaced as coach with their title defence in tatters.

The home side got off to a nervy start at the Estadio do Dragao, as Sporting forward Andraz Sporar saw a goal ruled out by VAR for offside in the very first minute.

Midfielder Danilo Pereira scored just his second league goal this term in the 64th minute though, allowing Porto to cruise through the rest of the game.

Mali striker Moussa Marega added a second in injury-time, his 11th of the triumphant campaign.

Porto, Benfica and Sporting have won the Portuguese league title every year bar two between them since the inaugural season in 1934-35.

But Benfica had been dominant in recent years, with this only Porto's second championship since 2013 after also taking the spoils in the 2017-18 season.

Sporting, who sit a distant third this term, have not lifted the trophy since 2002.

Porto clinched their 29th Portuguese Primeira Liga title on Wednesday with two games to spare after a 2-0 win over Sporting Lisbon. Sergio Conceicao's men went into the match needing only a point to secure the league due to their superior head-to-head record over second-placed Benfica.

Porto clinched their 29th Portuguese Primeira Liga title on Wednesday with two games to spare after a 2-0 win over Sporting Lisbon. Sergio Conceicao's men went into the match needing only a point to secure the league due to their superior head-to-head record over second-placed Benfica. The victory ensured they won the championship in style, moving eight points clear of last season's champions Benfica who have won a record 37 titles. Porto only led Benfica by one point when the campaign resumed following the coronavirus lockdown last month, but their old rivals have faltered and coach Bruno Lage was replaced as coach with their title defence in tatters. The home side got off to a nervy start at the Estadio do Dragao, as Sporting forward Andraz Sporar saw a goal ruled out by VAR for offside in the very first minute. Midfielder Danilo Pereira scored just his second league goal this term in the 64th minute though, allowing Porto to cruise through the rest of the game. Mali striker Moussa Marega added a second in injury-time, his 11th of the triumphant campaign. Porto, Benfica and Sporting have won the Portuguese league title every year bar two between them since the inaugural season in 1934-35. But Benfica had been dominant in recent years, with this only Porto's second championship since 2013 after also taking the spoils in the 2017-18 season. Sporting, who sit a distant third this term, have not lifted the trophy since 2002.

Porto secure 29th Portuguese league title

Top-order batsman Marnus Labuschagne reckons Australia now has a "stable" batting lineup and as a result, the upcoming Test series against India would be a great spectacle for everyone involved.The last time India toured Australia during the 2018-19 season, the Virat Kohli-led side registered their first Test series win on the Aussie soil.

However, the powerhouse Australian duo -- David Warner and Steve Smith -- were missing in action because of a year-long ban for the ball-tampering scandal. Australia and India are slated to take on each other in a four-match Test series this year, beginning from December 4 in Brisbane.

In a telephonic interview with ANI, the 26-year-old from Queensland opened up about the upcoming India-Australia series, the new ICC guidelines, and his bond with teammate Steve Smith.Labuschagne said that India probably has one of the "best bowling attacks in the world" at the moment, however, with the likes of Smith and Warner back in the team, Australia would be in a much more stable position.

"I cannot wait for the series against India. The series will be between the number one and number two ranked sides in the World Test Championship. Having Steve Smith and David Warner is a massive win for us, one batsman averages in the 60s while the second one averages in the high forties. That will add massive balance to our side," the right-handed-batsman spoke to ANI in a telephonic interview.

"I also think that we are playing better cricket now, our batting lineup is more stable now, guys understand their role, it would be a great challenge facing India`s bowling attack. India has one of the best bowling attacks in the world, if not the best," added the batsman.

When asked who would be the most challenging Indian bowler to bat against, Labuschagne replied, "Jasprit Bumrah with the extra pace adds a bit of value to the Indian attack, he can swing the ball both ways, he is right up there in the rankings. It would be exciting to see two great pace attacks take on each other. We would be required to be at our best to defeat India."The second Test of the series, scheduled for later this year, at Adelaide would be a day-night Test.

When quizzed about whether Australia would have an advantage over their guests, Labuschagne believes otherwise. "I don`t think Australia would have a clear advantage in the day-night Test, we have played more pink-ball Tests. The way the game is right now, people are used to adapting so I really don`t think we would have an outright advantage," he said.

The 26-year-old made his Test debut in 2018, but he couldn`t register his presence right away. However, he made a comeback in the national squad in the second Ashes Test at Lord`s in 2019. Interestingly, he was called in as a concussion substitute for Smith.

"Steve and I are great mates and, I have learnt a lot from him. We talk quite a bit about batting. Just by watching him play and go about his work, I have managed to pick up a few things," Labuschagne added.

The right-handed batsman registered 1,104 runs at an impressive average of 64.94 in 2019. The stellar run continued to the succeeding year, 2020, when he played an innings of 215, his highest Test score, against New Zealand in Sydney. However, that was only Test match the Aussie could play as the world sports, along with cricket, had come to a halt due to the global pandemic.

The young batsman has made the world sit up and notice his talent in Tests and One Day Internationals, although, he longs to explore the shortest format of the game. Due to the pandemic, Indian Premier League (IPL), one of the most popular T20 cricket leagues, has also been postponed indefinitely due to the contagious virus.

"IPL is the best T20 competition in the world, and if there is an opportunity to play in the IPL, I would definitely want to go over there and challenge myself against the best players in the world," the Aussie said.

However, his sole focus is to play for his country as and when needed. He is currently ranked at the number three position in the ICC Test batsmen rankings, only behind Steve Smith and Virat Kohli.The country has somewhat managed to curb the coronavirus, and Labuschagne said that players in Queensland have also returned to full-fledged training with their state sides.

"Lockdown has been good. It has been a good opportunity to work on different parts of your game. It has also been a good opportunity to work on the fitness aspect as well. We have fully resumed our training in Queensland. I did not take much of a break as I really enjoy batting, I was playing a bit of cricket in the backyard so there is not much rustiness," he added.

Australia had last played an international match in March against New Zealand, however, after the first ODI, the remaining two matches were postponed due to the pandemic.But many parts of the world are recovering from the havoc created by the virus, and hence several world sports are returning back on the field.

In the first cricketing encounter since the pandemic arrived, West Indies and England on July 8 kicked off the Test series in Southampton. However, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has made some modifications in the sport, regarding the use of saliva in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic.

Speaking about the same, Labuschagne said, "I really enjoyed watching the first Test between England and West Indies. I am a big fan of watching cricket, it was a great test between bat and ball, it seemed as if the ball did not swing as much over there, bowlers were not able to shine the ball with saliva so I am unsure whether that had an effect of it."The Aussie admits that it would be "tough" to maintain the ball with no saliva policy in different conditions.

"I definitely think not using saliva will have an effect, it is tough to maintain the ball with just sweat in tougher conditions. There needs to be a fair contest between bat and ball, there has to be something which can help shine the ball to maintain an even contest between bat and ball, I am not saying use illegal substance but you can try out something which can help the ball stay in even condition," he added.

Earlier today, Cricket Australia announced a 26-member probable list if the series against England goes ahead. Both CA and ECB are currently working on a situation to go ahead with the limited-overs series in September this year.

Top-order batsman Marnus Labuschagne reckons Australia now has a "stable" batting lineup and as a result, the upcoming Test series against India would be a great spectacle for everyone involved.

Top-order batsman Marnus Labuschagne reckons Australia now has a "stable" batting lineup and as a result, the upcoming Test series against India would be a great spectacle for everyone involved.The last time India toured Australia during the 2018-19 season, the Virat Kohli-led side registered their first Test series win on the Aussie soil. However, the powerhouse Australian duo -- David Warner and Steve Smith -- were missing in action because of a year-long ban for the ball-tampering scandal. Australia and India are slated to take on each other in a four-match Test series this year, beginning from December 4 in Brisbane. In a telephonic interview with ANI, the 26-year-old from Queensland opened up about the upcoming India-Australia series, the new ICC guidelines, and his bond with teammate Steve Smith.Labuschagne said that India probably has one of the "best bowling attacks in the world" at the moment, however, with the likes of Smith and Warner back in the team, Australia would be in a much more stable position. "I cannot wait for the series against India. The series will be between the number one and number two ranked sides in the World Test Championship. Having Steve Smith and David Warner is a massive win for us, one batsman averages in the 60s while the second one averages in the high forties. That will add massive balance to our side," the right-handed-batsman spoke to ANI in a telephonic interview. "I also think that we are playing better cricket now, our batting lineup is more stable now, guys understand their role, it would be a great challenge facing India`s bowling attack. India has one of the best bowling attacks in the world, if not the best," added the batsman. When asked who would be the most challenging Indian bowler to bat against, Labuschagne replied, "Jasprit Bumrah with the extra pace adds a bit of value to the Indian attack, he can swing the ball both ways, he is right up there in the rankings. It would be exciting to see two great pace attacks take on each other. We would be required to be at our best to defeat India."The second Test of the series, scheduled for later this year, at Adelaide would be a day-night Test. When quizzed about whether Australia would have an advantage over their guests, Labuschagne believes otherwise. "I don`t think Australia would have a clear advantage in the day-night Test, we have played more pink-ball Tests. The way the game is right now, people are used to adapting so I really don`t think we would have an outright advantage," he said. The 26-year-old made his Test debut in 2018, but he couldn`t register his presence right away. However, he made a comeback in the national squad in the second Ashes Test at Lord`s in 2019. Interestingly, he was called in as a concussion substitute for Smith. "Steve and I are great mates and, I have learnt a lot from him. We talk quite a bit about batting. Just by watching him play and go about his work, I have managed to pick up a few things," Labuschagne added. The right-handed batsman registered 1,104 runs at an impressive average of 64.94 in 2019. The stellar run continued to the succeeding year, 2020, when he played an innings of 215, his highest Test score, against New Zealand in Sydney. However, that was only Test match the Aussie could play as the world sports, along with cricket, had come to a halt due to the global pandemic. The young batsman has made the world sit up and notice his talent in Tests and One Day Internationals, although, he longs to explore the shortest format of the game. Due to the pandemic, Indian Premier League (IPL), one of the most popular T20 cricket leagues, has also been postponed indefinitely due to the contagious virus. "IPL is the best T20 competition in the world, and if there is an opportunity to play in the IPL, I would definitely want to go over there and challenge myself against the best players in the world," the Aussie said. However, his sole focus is to play for his country as and when needed. He is currently ranked at the number three position in the ICC Test batsmen rankings, only behind Steve Smith and Virat Kohli.The country has somewhat managed to curb the coronavirus, and Labuschagne said that players in Queensland have also returned to full-fledged training with their state sides. "Lockdown has been good. It has been a good opportunity to work on different parts of your game. It has also been a good opportunity to work on the fitness aspect as well. We have fully resumed our training in Queensland. I did not take much of a break as I really enjoy batting, I was playing a bit of cricket in the backyard so there is not much rustiness," he added. Australia had last played an international match in March against New Zealand, however, after the first ODI, the remaining two matches were postponed due to the pandemic.But many parts of the world are recovering from the havoc created by the virus, and hence several world sports are returning back on the field. In the first cricketing encounter since the pandemic arrived, West Indies and England on July 8 kicked off the Test series in Southampton. However, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has made some modifications in the sport, regarding the use of saliva in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic. Speaking about the same, Labuschagne said, "I really enjoyed watching the first Test between England and West Indies. I am a big fan of watching cricket, it was a great test between bat and ball, it seemed as if the ball did not swing as much over there, bowlers were not able to shine the ball with saliva so I am unsure whether that had an effect of it."The Aussie admits that it would be "tough" to maintain the ball with no saliva policy in different conditions. "I definitely think not using saliva will have an effect, it is tough to maintain the ball with just sweat in tougher conditions. There needs to be a fair contest between bat and ball, there has to be something which can help shine the ball to maintain an even contest between bat and ball, I am not saying use illegal substance but you can try out something which can help the ball stay in even condition," he added. Earlier today, Cricket Australia announced a 26-member probable list if the series against England goes ahead. Both CA and ECB are currently working on a situation to go ahead with the limited-overs series in September this year.

Australia's batting lineup more stable now, series against India would be challenging: Marnus Labuschagne

As international cricket continues to come back to life, Australia are ready to visit England for a limited-overs series involving ODIs and T20Is. England are currently hosting the West Indies and will follow it with an ODI series against Ireland and three-match Test and T20I series against Pakistan after which Australia could tour England for the series.

While the details of the limited-overs series hasn’t been finalised yet, Australia have announced a 26-man preliminary squad for the series with the likes of Usman Khawaja, Marcus Stoinis, Glenn Maxwell and Travis Head being the most notable returnees in the squad.

Australia are slated to play England in September which would mark the return of the Kangaroos in the international circuit after a prolonged break due to COVID-19 pandemic.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-wi-jofra-archer-dropped-from-2nd-test-for-breaching-teams-bio-secure-protocols-313649" hreflang="en">ENG vs WI: Jofra Archer dropped from 2nd Test for breaching team’s bio-secure protocols</a>

While the final squad for the series will be announced after closely monitoring the rhythm and form of the announced 26-man group, all eyes will be on Khawaja, Maxwell, Stoinis and Andrew Tye.&nbsp;

The performances in the Big Bash Leagie (BBL) haven’t gone unnoticed as well with the likes of Josh Philippe and Daniel Sams included in the preliminary squad. However, there was no place for the likes of Peter Handscomb, Nathan&nbsp; Coulter-Nile and Shaun Marsh in the 26-man squad.

<h2>Australia Preliminary Squad for England limited-overs series:</h2>

Sean Abbott, Ashton Agar, Alex Carey, Pat Cummins, Aaron Finch, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Ben McDermott, Riley Meredith, Michael Neser, Josh Philippe, Daniel Sams, D’Arcy Short, Kane Richardson, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, Andrew Tye, Matthew Wade, David Warner, Adam Zampa

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sourav-ganguly-under-home-quarantine-after-elder-brother-snehasis-tests-positive-for-covid-19-313642" hreflang="en">Sourav Ganguly under home quarantine after elder brother Snehasis tests positive for COVID-19</a>

Cricket Australia’s National Selector, Trevor Hohns, revealed that the 26-man list has been named keeping all contingencies in mind considering players wouldn't be able to join the team mid-series in case injuries or other issues take place.

“This preliminary list covers the contingencies of playing One-Day Internationals and T20 Internationals in bio-secure hubs with the likely prospect of not being able to bring in replacements should the tour proceed.&nbsp;

“The preliminary list includes several exciting young players who have recently excelled at state level and in the BBL. These emerging players are those we would like to develop further as we believe they have a bright future in Australian cricket.&nbsp;

“The preliminary list also has a view towards the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup and in the longer term the 2023 ICC World Cup.”&nbsp;

As international cricket continues to come back to life, Australia are ready to visit England for a limited-overs series involving ODIs and T20Is. England are currently hosting the West Indies and will follow it with an ODI series against Ireland and three-match Test and T20I series against Pakistan after which Australia could tour England for the series.

As international cricket continues to come back to life, Australia are ready to visit England for a limited-overs series involving ODIs and T20Is. England are currently hosting the West Indies and will follow it with an ODI series against Ireland and three-match Test and T20I series against Pakistan after which Australia could tour England for the series. While the details of the limited-overs series hasn’t been finalised yet, Australia have announced a 26-man preliminary squad for the series with the likes of Usman Khawaja, Marcus Stoinis, Glenn Maxwell and Travis Head being the most notable returnees in the squad. Australia are slated to play England in September which would mark the return of the Kangaroos in the international circuit after a prolonged break due to COVID-19 pandemic. ALSO READ: ENG vs WI: Jofra Archer dropped from 2nd Test for breaching team’s bio-secure protocols While the final squad for the series will be announced after closely monitoring the rhythm and form of the announced 26-man group, all eyes will be on Khawaja, Maxwell, Stoinis and Andrew Tye. The performances in the Big Bash Leagie (BBL) haven’t gone unnoticed as well with the likes of Josh Philippe and Daniel Sams included in the preliminary squad. However, there was no place for the likes of Peter Handscomb, Nathan Coulter-Nile and Shaun Marsh in the 26-man squad. Australia Preliminary Squad for England limited-overs series: Sean Abbott, Ashton Agar, Alex Carey, Pat Cummins, Aaron Finch, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Ben McDermott, Riley Meredith, Michael Neser, Josh Philippe, Daniel Sams, D’Arcy Short, Kane Richardson, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, Andrew Tye, Matthew Wade, David Warner, Adam Zampa ALSO READ: Sourav Ganguly under home quarantine after elder brother Snehasis tests positive for COVID-19 Cricket Australia’s National Selector, Trevor Hohns, revealed that the 26-man list has been named keeping all contingencies in mind considering players wouldn't be able to join the team mid-series in case injuries or other issues take place. “This preliminary list covers the contingencies of playing One-Day Internationals and T20 Internationals in bio-secure hubs with the likely prospect of not being able to bring in replacements should the tour proceed. “The preliminary list includes several exciting young players who have recently excelled at state level and in the BBL. These emerging players are those we would like to develop further as we believe they have a bright future in Australian cricket. “The preliminary list also has a view towards the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup and in the longer term the 2023 ICC World Cup.”

Stoinis, Khawaja return as Australia announce 26-man squad for England series

Banning fans from the Tokyo Olympics is "clearly something we don't want", International Olympic Committee chief Thomas Bach said, adding that "multiple scenarios" were under consideration for the rescheduled Games.

Bach said safety was the top concern for organisers of the Tokyo Olympics, which were due to start next week but have been postponed for a year over the COVID-19 pandemic.

But he clearly signalled his reluctance to hold the Games at empty stadiums, now a common sight in sport as other competitions make a tentative return from virus-enforced shutdowns.

"Olympic Games behind closed doors is clearly something we do not want," the IOC president told reporters in a video call.

"So we are working for a solution of the Olympic Games which, on one hand, is safeguarding the health of all the participants and, on the other hand, is also reflecting the Olympic spirit."

Bach and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe have both warned that it would be hard to postpone the Games beyond 2021, raising the nightmare scenario of the first Olympics to be cancelled in peace time.

"The first priority is about the safety of all participants of the Olympic Games," said Bach.

"For this reason, we are working now on multiple scenarios of the organisation of the Games with regard to the health situation of which we do not know how it will be in one year from now."

Tokyo governor Yuriko Koike last month told AFP she would make a "120 percent effort" for the Games to go ahead, pledging the Olympics would be safe despite the pandemic.

On Wednesday Tokyo moved its coronavirus alert to red, the highest level, after a resurgence of cases in Japan's capital.

Banning fans from the Tokyo Olympics is "clearly something we don't want", International Olympic Committee chief Thomas Bach said, adding that "multiple scenarios" were under consideration for the rescheduled Games.

Banning fans from the Tokyo Olympics is "clearly something we don't want", International Olympic Committee chief Thomas Bach said, adding that "multiple scenarios" were under consideration for the rescheduled Games. Bach said safety was the top concern for organisers of the Tokyo Olympics, which were due to start next week but have been postponed for a year over the COVID-19 pandemic. But he clearly signalled his reluctance to hold the Games at empty stadiums, now a common sight in sport as other competitions make a tentative return from virus-enforced shutdowns. "Olympic Games behind closed doors is clearly something we do not want," the IOC president told reporters in a video call. "So we are working for a solution of the Olympic Games which, on one hand, is safeguarding the health of all the participants and, on the other hand, is also reflecting the Olympic spirit." Bach and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe have both warned that it would be hard to postpone the Games beyond 2021, raising the nightmare scenario of the first Olympics to be cancelled in peace time. "The first priority is about the safety of all participants of the Olympic Games," said Bach. "For this reason, we are working now on multiple scenarios of the organisation of the Games with regard to the health situation of which we do not know how it will be in one year from now." Tokyo governor Yuriko Koike last month told AFP she would make a "120 percent effort" for the Games to go ahead, pledging the Olympics would be safe despite the pandemic. On Wednesday Tokyo moved its coronavirus alert to red, the highest level, after a resurgence of cases in Japan's capital.

Olympics boss reluctant to hold Tokyo Games behind closed doors

England will hope the return of captain Joe Root proves inspirational in the second Test against the West Indies at Old Trafford starting Thursday.

Star batsman Root missed England's four-wicket defeat at Southampton in international cricket's return from lockdown last week after attending the birth of his second child.

He has now rejoined the squad, with the West Indies needing just one win from the two remaining Tests at Old Trafford to clinch a first series win in England for 32 years.

Although all three fixtures are being played behind closed doors because of the coronavirus outbreak, Root, returning to lead England after all-rounder Ben Stokes took temporary charge, will be in a familiar position.

England have now lost the opening match of a series for the eighth time in 10 campaigns.

Most recently in South Africa they recovered from a heavy defeat in the first Test to win that series 3-1.

"It's quite frustrating," said Root of England's slow starts on Wednesday.

"The pleasing thing is there's been times when that's been the case and we've still come out and won the series. That's the challenge now."

Joe Denly has made way for Root after he was twice out cheaply at Southampton to leave him with a modest average of 29.53 from 15 Tests.

"Joe is someone who has done a fantastic job for us over a period of time and he'll be as frustrated as anyone that he's not been able to covert those opportunities," added Root.

Meanwhile, England are set to recall Stuart Broad after he missed a first home Test in eight years when left out at Southampton -- a move that prompted the veteran seamer to describe himself as "gutted and angry".

Broad is second only to James Anderson in England's all-time list of Test wicket-takers.

But he won't be alongside his longtime new-ball colleague, with Anderson rested along with Durham fast bowler Mark Wood, who also played the opening Test.

Chris Woakes could come into the side in Wood's absence.

England have added left-armer Sam Curran and the uncapped Ollie Robinson to a pace attack still featuring Jofra Archer as they make good on a promise to rotate their quicks amid a gruelling schedule of six Tests in seven weeks, including three against Pakistan.

<h2>- 'Think outside the box' -</h2>

"With Stuart and Jimmy, trying to maximise their careers is really important to make sure they are playing for as long as possible," said Root.

"If that has to be slightly different to how it has been over the last few years then we might have to think outside the box and not play them in every game or not play them together all the time."

Wicketkeeper Jos Buttler has been retained despite dropping Jermaine Blackwood early in the West Indies batsman's match-clinching innings of 95 at Southampton and averaging just 23.22 in Tests since the start of 2019.

But Root, encouraged by Buttler's first-innings 35, said his fellow World Cup-winner was close to cracking Test cricket.

"It's just a matter of time before we see some of those special innings we've seen in white-ball cricket," he insisted.

West Indies are now on the brink of their first away Test series win against major opposition since 1994/95.

But captain Jason Holder, the world's top-ranked Test all-rounder, said there was no danger of his side getting carried away.

"Winning the first Test match is just one piece of the puzzle," explained Holder, who took a Test-best 6-42 last week.&nbsp;

"We've got two other games to play and we don't get ahead of ourselves."

England will hope the return of captain Joe Root proves inspirational in the second Test against the West Indies at Old Trafford starting Thursday. Star batsman Root missed England's four-wicket defeat at Southampton in international cricket's return from lockdown last week after attending the birth of his second child.

England will hope the return of captain Joe Root proves inspirational in the second Test against the West Indies at Old Trafford starting Thursday. Star batsman Root missed England's four-wicket defeat at Southampton in international cricket's return from lockdown last week after attending the birth of his second child. He has now rejoined the squad, with the West Indies needing just one win from the two remaining Tests at Old Trafford to clinch a first series win in England for 32 years. Although all three fixtures are being played behind closed doors because of the coronavirus outbreak, Root, returning to lead England after all-rounder Ben Stokes took temporary charge, will be in a familiar position. England have now lost the opening match of a series for the eighth time in 10 campaigns. Most recently in South Africa they recovered from a heavy defeat in the first Test to win that series 3-1. "It's quite frustrating," said Root of England's slow starts on Wednesday. "The pleasing thing is there's been times when that's been the case and we've still come out and won the series. That's the challenge now." Joe Denly has made way for Root after he was twice out cheaply at Southampton to leave him with a modest average of 29.53 from 15 Tests. "Joe is someone who has done a fantastic job for us over a period of time and he'll be as frustrated as anyone that he's not been able to covert those opportunities," added Root. Meanwhile, England are set to recall Stuart Broad after he missed a first home Test in eight years when left out at Southampton -- a move that prompted the veteran seamer to describe himself as "gutted and angry". Broad is second only to James Anderson in England's all-time list of Test wicket-takers. But he won't be alongside his longtime new-ball colleague, with Anderson rested along with Durham fast bowler Mark Wood, who also played the opening Test. Chris Woakes could come into the side in Wood's absence. England have added left-armer Sam Curran and the uncapped Ollie Robinson to a pace attack still featuring Jofra Archer as they make good on a promise to rotate their quicks amid a gruelling schedule of six Tests in seven weeks, including three against Pakistan. - 'Think outside the box' - "With Stuart and Jimmy, trying to maximise their careers is really important to make sure they are playing for as long as possible," said Root. "If that has to be slightly different to how it has been over the last few years then we might have to think outside the box and not play them in every game or not play them together all the time." Wicketkeeper Jos Buttler has been retained despite dropping Jermaine Blackwood early in the West Indies batsman's match-clinching innings of 95 at Southampton and averaging just 23.22 in Tests since the start of 2019. But Root, encouraged by Buttler's first-innings 35, said his fellow World Cup-winner was close to cracking Test cricket. "It's just a matter of time before we see some of those special innings we've seen in white-ball cricket," he insisted. West Indies are now on the brink of their first away Test series win against major opposition since 1994/95. But captain Jason Holder, the world's top-ranked Test all-rounder, said there was no danger of his side getting carried away. "Winning the first Test match is just one piece of the puzzle," explained Holder, who took a Test-best 6-42 last week. "We've got two other games to play and we don't get ahead of ourselves."

ENG vs WI 2nd Test: England captain Root returns as West Indies eye series win

Wycombe Wanderers forward Adebayo Akinfewa received a congratulatory message from Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp after his side clinched promotion to the Championship after defeating Oxford United 2-1 in the League One playoff final at the iconic Wembley Stadium on Monday.

It was the first time in the history that Wycombe Wanderers secured a place in the English second-division as the players celebrated the success in joy. Akinfewa in particular looked ecstatic after Wycombe’s promotion to Championship as he recalled his hardship dating back to four years when he was unemployed.

"Look, look, let me calm down. First and foremost, I want to thank God, because today he made the impossible possible," he said in his post-match interview with Sky Sports.

"Four years ago I stood in front of you and I was technically unemployed.

"Let me tell you something, the only person that can hit me up on WhatsApp this time is Klopp, so we can celebrate together. You get me? Oi!"

<h2>Akinfewa's post-match interview:</h2>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Sports. I mean, just the absolute best. <a href="https://t.co/bKZ4I80QL6">pic.twitter.com/bKZ4I80QL6</a>
— Todd Lisenbee (@ToddOnFranchise) <a href="https://twitter.com/ToddOnFranchise/status/1282796237427703811?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The bulky striker went onto praise each and every teammate and support staff of Wycombe Wanderers as he urged everyone not to give up in difficult of circumstances. However, the 38-year-old joked, in his post-match interview, that

Klopp, who guided <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../liverpool-win-english-premier-league-title-after- 30-year-wait-308668">Liverpool to a historic Premier League title</a> this season, could “hit me up on WhatsApp” to celebrate their success together.&nbsp;

“Hello big man, congratulations,” Klopp says in a video posted by Akinfenwa on Twitter.

“I’m pretty sure your whole life at least a Championship player and now finally, you are there. Well done. Great, great victory. Even in these strange times, I hope you celebrate appropriately.”

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Are u crazyyyyyyy the man, the myth, the legend sent me a Watsapp. Today can’t get any better. Thank you Klopp <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YNWA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YNWA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Beast20?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Beast20</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BeastMode?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BeastMode</a> we did it <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/champHereWeCome?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#champHereWeCome</a> 💪🏿🙏🏿💙 <a href="https://t.co/9RgiKZkYt2">pic.twitter.com/9RgiKZkYt2</a>
— daRealAAkinfenwa (@daRealAkinfenwa) <a href="https://twitter.com/daRealAkinfenwa/status/1282817315864797188?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Last week, Akinfewa said that he was subjected to racial abuse during the play-off semi-final match against Fleetwood Town, sparking an investigation by the Football Association. However, he didn’t discuss the incident after Wycombe secured a place in the Champions. He said he will speak about it.

"There's a time for me to speak on that, and I will speak on it," he added. "Life in football is all about opinions. Someone gave their opinion on me, and that was their opinion.

"I hope my story shows that the only opinion that matters is the opinion you have about yourself.

"I was lucky and blessed to find a manager and players who believed in me, so we are here today, and I'll say it for the people in the back: Wycombe's in the Championship.

"Wait, wait, I'll say it one more time: Wycombe is in the Champio- Wait! The people in the back didn't hear me! Wycombe is in the Championship!" 
&nbsp;

Wycombe Wanderers forward Adebayo Akinfewa received a congratulatory message from Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp after his side clinched promotion to the Championship after defeating Oxford United 2-1 in the League One playoff final at the iconic Wembley Stadium on Monday.

Wycombe Wanderers forward Adebayo Akinfewa received a congratulatory message from Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp after his side clinched promotion to the Championship after defeating Oxford United 2-1 in the League One playoff final at the iconic Wembley Stadium on Monday. It was the first time in the history that Wycombe Wanderers secured a place in the English second-division as the players celebrated the success in joy. Akinfewa in particular looked ecstatic after Wycombe’s promotion to Championship as he recalled his hardship dating back to four years when he was unemployed. "Look, look, let me calm down. First and foremost, I want to thank God, because today he made the impossible possible," he said in his post-match interview with Sky Sports. "Four years ago I stood in front of you and I was technically unemployed. "Let me tell you something, the only person that can hit me up on WhatsApp this time is Klopp, so we can celebrate together. You get me? Oi!" Akinfewa's post-match interview: Sports. I mean, just the absolute best. pic.twitter.com/bKZ4I80QL6 — Todd Lisenbee (@ToddOnFranchise) July 13, 2020 × The bulky striker went onto praise each and every teammate and support staff of Wycombe Wanderers as he urged everyone not to give up in difficult of circumstances. However, the 38-year-old joked, in his post-match interview, that Klopp, who guided Liverpool to a historic Premier League title this season, could “hit me up on WhatsApp” to celebrate their success together. “Hello big man, congratulations,” Klopp says in a video posted by Akinfenwa on Twitter. “I’m pretty sure your whole life at least a Championship player and now finally, you are there. Well done. Great, great victory. Even in these strange times, I hope you celebrate appropriately.” Are u crazyyyyyyy the man, the myth, the legend sent me a Watsapp. Today can’t get any better. Thank you Klopp #YNWA #Beast20 #BeastMode we did it #champHereWeCome 💪🏿🙏🏿💙 pic.twitter.com/9RgiKZkYt2 — daRealAAkinfenwa (@daRealAkinfenwa) July 13, 2020 × Last week, Akinfewa said that he was subjected to racial abuse during the play-off semi-final match against Fleetwood Town, sparking an investigation by the Football Association. However, he didn’t discuss the incident after Wycombe secured a place in the Champions. He said he will speak about it. "There's a time for me to speak on that, and I will speak on it," he added. "Life in football is all about opinions. Someone gave their opinion on me, and that was their opinion. "I hope my story shows that the only opinion that matters is the opinion you have about yourself. "I was lucky and blessed to find a manager and players who believed in me, so we are here today, and I'll say it for the people in the back: Wycombe's in the Championship. "Wait, wait, I'll say it one more time: Wycombe is in the Champio- Wait! The people in the back didn't hear me! Wycombe is in the Championship!"

Watch: Klopp sends congratulatory message to Wycombe's Akinfewa after emotional speech

Real Madrid endured their toughest test at Granada on Monday since La Liga restarted but showed real determination to grind out a 2-1 win and record their ninth consecutive victory as they moved within touching distance of reclaiming the title.

Early goals from Ferland Mendy and Karim Benzema were enough to restore a four-point lead over Barcelona and Real will clinch their first league title since 2017 with a win over Villarreal on Thursday or at Leganes on the final day of the season.

“It’s true that we’re one step closer but we have to keep going, there are still more points to play for and we’re going to try and win every game left as that was always our objective,” said captain Sergio Ramos.

“I really hope we can celebrate winning this league title, our results speak for themselves.”

Zinedine Zidane’s Real side got off to a flying start when French defender Mendy skipped into the box practically unopposed and rifled the ball into the net from the tightest of angles in the 10th minute, scoring his first goal for the club.

Real’s top scorer Benzema doubled the advantage with a cool finish six minutes later to net his 19th goal of the season but 10th placed Granada, who still had slim hopes of European qualification, refused to lie down.

Real’s in-form goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois made the first of two fine saves by tipping away a shot from defender Domingos Duarte before the break and Venezuelan forward Darwin Machis pulled one back early in the second half.

It was the first goal Real had conceded in six matches but Granada threatened to equalise as Machis missed the target on the volley while Courtois showed superb reflexes to deny forward Antonin late on.

Ramos was then the hero as he cleared a Ramon Azeez shot off the line seconds later and the leaders had to withstand a goalmouth scramble in added time.

Zidane celebrated wildly when the full-time whistle came and praised his side for coping with Granada’s late onslaught.

“I let out a shout because I was happy and because in football you have to suffer,” said the Frenchman, who is closing in on his second La Liga title in under four years as Real coach along with three Champions League crowns.

“I shouted out loud because the three points were very important and I wanted to tell my players that they had played a superb game. To win this league you have to suffer a little bit and we dug in as a team. You have to be proud of this team.”

Real Madrid endured their toughest test at Granada on Monday since La Liga restarted but showed real determination to grind out a 2-1 win and record their ninth consecutive victory as they moved within touching distance of reclaiming the title.

Real Madrid endured their toughest test at Granada on Monday since La Liga restarted but showed real determination to grind out a 2-1 win and record their ninth consecutive victory as they moved within touching distance of reclaiming the title. Early goals from Ferland Mendy and Karim Benzema were enough to restore a four-point lead over Barcelona and Real will clinch their first league title since 2017 with a win over Villarreal on Thursday or at Leganes on the final day of the season. “It’s true that we’re one step closer but we have to keep going, there are still more points to play for and we’re going to try and win every game left as that was always our objective,” said captain Sergio Ramos. “I really hope we can celebrate winning this league title, our results speak for themselves.” Zinedine Zidane’s Real side got off to a flying start when French defender Mendy skipped into the box practically unopposed and rifled the ball into the net from the tightest of angles in the 10th minute, scoring his first goal for the club. Real’s top scorer Benzema doubled the advantage with a cool finish six minutes later to net his 19th goal of the season but 10th placed Granada, who still had slim hopes of European qualification, refused to lie down. Real’s in-form goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois made the first of two fine saves by tipping away a shot from defender Domingos Duarte before the break and Venezuelan forward Darwin Machis pulled one back early in the second half. It was the first goal Real had conceded in six matches but Granada threatened to equalise as Machis missed the target on the volley while Courtois showed superb reflexes to deny forward Antonin late on. Ramos was then the hero as he cleared a Ramon Azeez shot off the line seconds later and the leaders had to withstand a goalmouth scramble in added time. Zidane celebrated wildly when the full-time whistle came and praised his side for coping with Granada’s late onslaught. “I let out a shout because I was happy and because in football you have to suffer,” said the Frenchman, who is closing in on his second La Liga title in under four years as Real coach along with three Champions League crowns. “I shouted out loud because the three points were very important and I wanted to tell my players that they had played a superb game. To win this league you have to suffer a little bit and we dug in as a team. You have to be proud of this team.”

Real Madrid dig deep to beat Granada and move closer to title

A couple of comebacks and the continued emergence of a bright young star feature in AFP Sport's golf talking points for this week.

<h2>- Woods in top company -</h2>

When Tiger Woods returns to competitive golf for the first time in five months at Jack Nicklaus's Memorial Tournament on Thursday, he will do so in exalted company.

Woods will tee off alongside&nbsp;world number one Rory McIlroy&nbsp;and Brooks Koepka in an eye-catching threeball for the first two rounds at Muirfield Village in Ohio.&nbsp;

Woods needs a sixth victory at the event he last won in 2012 to become the most successful golfer in PGA Tour history, having tied Sam Snead's record 82 wins at October's Zozo Championship in Japan.

The 15-time major winner last played competitively at the Genesis Invitational in February, finishing 68th.&nbsp;

Without Woods since the tour's return from COVID-19 lockdown, the buzz has been all about Bryson DeChambeau and Collin Morikawa, winners of the last two events, and they will go out together alongside defending champion Patrick Cantlay on Thursday.

Big-hitting DeChambeau, the 2018 Memorial champion, is favourite with the bookmakers at 10-1. Woods is priced at a tempting-looking 25-1.&nbsp;

The bookies should note that the last time Woods returned from an enforced layoff, at the Zozo after a 10-week break for arthroscopic knee surgery, he won.

<h2>- Miguel keeps rolling -</h2>

He might be nearer to 60 than 50 but Miguel Angel Jimenez&nbsp;proved he was still one to watch when the European Tour made a low-key return last week.

At the Austrian Open, an event shared with the second-tier Challenge Tour, the 56-year-old rolled back the years to shoot his lowest score since the 2018 Italian Open, a seven-under-par 65 in the second round.

It put the Spaniard into the lead and he finished tied eighth to record his first top 10 since the 2017 Hong Kong Open.

Jimenez has already set the record for the oldest winner on the European Tour three times and he threatened it again at the Diamond Country Club near Vienna, an event won by Scotland's Marc Warren.&nbsp;

Jimenez won the 2012 Hong Kong Open at the age of 48 years, 307 days, before successfully defending it a year later when 49 years and 337 days old.

Not content with that, he won the 2014 Open de Espana for his 21st title at 50 years, 133 days.

The European Tour remains in Austria this week before moving to Britain for the first of six full-field events starting with the British Masters in Newcastle.

<h2>- Collin's a cut above -</h2>

Collin Morikawa only turned pro 13 months ago, but he won for the first time on the US PGA Tour at the Barracuda Championship just eight weeks later and has been so consistent that he now has more wins than missed cuts.

His second tournament victory came at the Workday Charity Open at Muirfield on Sunday where he won a nail-biting playoff against Justin Thomas on the third extra hole.&nbsp;

His reward is a huge jump in the world rankings from 29th to 13th, one place above Tiger Woods, and he is firmly in the Ryder Cup picture for the next edition at Whistling Straits, now shifted to September 2021.

Morikawa's only missed cut came two weeks earlier at the Travelers Championship, and a fortnight before that he had the crushing disappointment of seeing a two-foot putt lip out to lose a playoff to Daniel Berger at the Charles Schwab Challenge.

But he recovered in the best possible fashion with his second win and it is noteworthy that the 23-year-old's&nbsp;streak of 22 straight weekends played to start his professional career is second only to, you've guessed it, Woods.

<h2>- World's top 20 -</h2>

New Official World Golf Rankings updated July 13, 2020:&nbsp;

1. Rory McIlroy (NIR) 8.75&nbsp;

2. Jon Rahm (ESP) 7.85&nbsp;

3. Justin Thomas (USA) 7.67 (+2)&nbsp;

4. Dustin Johnson (USA) 7.49&nbsp;(-1)

5. Webb Simpson (USA) 7.13&nbsp;(-1)

6. Brooks Koepka (USA) 6.73&nbsp;

7. Bryson DeChambeau (USA) 6.24&nbsp;

8. Patrick Reed (USA) 5.85&nbsp;(+1)

9. Adam Scott (AUS) 5.84&nbsp;(+1)

10. Patrick Cantlay (USA) 5.84&nbsp;(-2)

11. Xander Schauffele (USA) 5.45&nbsp;

12. Tommy Fleetwood (ENG) 5.12&nbsp;

13. Collin Morikawa (USA) 4.96&nbsp;(+16)

14. Tiger Woods (USA) 4.86

15. Tyrrell Hatton (ENG) 4.81&nbsp;

16. Justin Rose (ENG) 4.76&nbsp;(-3)

17. Marc Leishman (AUS) 4.48&nbsp;(-1)

18. Gary Woodland (USA) 4.31 (+1)&nbsp;

19. Tony Finau (USA) 4.29&nbsp;(-2)

20. Matt Kuchar (USA) 4.25 (-2)

A couple of comebacks and the continued emergence of a bright young star feature in AFP Sport's golf talking points for this week. - Woods in top company - When Tiger Woods returns to competitive golf for the first time in five months at Jack Nicklaus's Memorial Tournament on Thursday, he will do so in exalted company.

A couple of comebacks and the continued emergence of a bright young star feature in AFP Sport's golf talking points for this week. - Woods in top company - When Tiger Woods returns to competitive golf for the first time in five months at Jack Nicklaus's Memorial Tournament on Thursday, he will do so in exalted company. Woods will tee off alongside world number one Rory McIlroy and Brooks Koepka in an eye-catching threeball for the first two rounds at Muirfield Village in Ohio. Woods needs a sixth victory at the event he last won in 2012 to become the most successful golfer in PGA Tour history, having tied Sam Snead's record 82 wins at October's Zozo Championship in Japan. The 15-time major winner last played competitively at the Genesis Invitational in February, finishing 68th. Without Woods since the tour's return from COVID-19 lockdown, the buzz has been all about Bryson DeChambeau and Collin Morikawa, winners of the last two events, and they will go out together alongside defending champion Patrick Cantlay on Thursday. Big-hitting DeChambeau, the 2018 Memorial champion, is favourite with the bookmakers at 10-1. Woods is priced at a tempting-looking 25-1. The bookies should note that the last time Woods returned from an enforced layoff, at the Zozo after a 10-week break for arthroscopic knee surgery, he won. - Miguel keeps rolling - He might be nearer to 60 than 50 but Miguel Angel Jimenez proved he was still one to watch when the European Tour made a low-key return last week. At the Austrian Open, an event shared with the second-tier Challenge Tour, the 56-year-old rolled back the years to shoot his lowest score since the 2018 Italian Open, a seven-under-par 65 in the second round. It put the Spaniard into the lead and he finished tied eighth to record his first top 10 since the 2017 Hong Kong Open. Jimenez has already set the record for the oldest winner on the European Tour three times and he threatened it again at the Diamond Country Club near Vienna, an event won by Scotland's Marc Warren. Jimenez won the 2012 Hong Kong Open at the age of 48 years, 307 days, before successfully defending it a year later when 49 years and 337 days old. Not content with that, he won the 2014 Open de Espana for his 21st title at 50 years, 133 days. The European Tour remains in Austria this week before moving to Britain for the first of six full-field events starting with the British Masters in Newcastle. - Collin's a cut above - Collin Morikawa only turned pro 13 months ago, but he won for the first time on the US PGA Tour at the Barracuda Championship just eight weeks later and has been so consistent that he now has more wins than missed cuts. His second tournament victory came at the Workday Charity Open at Muirfield on Sunday where he won a nail-biting playoff against Justin Thomas on the third extra hole. His reward is a huge jump in the world rankings from 29th to 13th, one place above Tiger Woods, and he is firmly in the Ryder Cup picture for the next edition at Whistling Straits, now shifted to September 2021. Morikawa's only missed cut came two weeks earlier at the Travelers Championship, and a fortnight before that he had the crushing disappointment of seeing a two-foot putt lip out to lose a playoff to Daniel Berger at the Charles Schwab Challenge. But he recovered in the best possible fashion with his second win and it is noteworthy that the 23-year-old's streak of 22 straight weekends played to start his professional career is second only to, you've guessed it, Woods. - World's top 20 - New Official World Golf Rankings updated July 13, 2020: 1. Rory McIlroy (NIR) 8.75 2. Jon Rahm (ESP) 7.85 3. Justin Thomas (USA) 7.67 (+2) 4. Dustin Johnson (USA) 7.49 (-1) 5. Webb Simpson (USA) 7.13 (-1) 6. Brooks Koepka (USA) 6.73 7. Bryson DeChambeau (USA) 6.24 8. Patrick Reed (USA) 5.85 (+1) 9. Adam Scott (AUS) 5.84 (+1) 10. Patrick Cantlay (USA) 5.84 (-2) 11. Xander Schauffele (USA) 5.45 12. Tommy Fleetwood (ENG) 5.12 13. Collin Morikawa (USA) 4.96 (+16) 14. Tiger Woods (USA) 4.86 15. Tyrrell Hatton (ENG) 4.81 16. Justin Rose (ENG) 4.76 (-3) 17. Marc Leishman (AUS) 4.48 (-1) 18. Gary Woodland (USA) 4.31 (+1) 19. Tony Finau (USA) 4.29 (-2) 20. Matt Kuchar (USA) 4.25 (-2)

Tiger back, Miguel for the ages, Morikawa power: golf talking points

Manchester United’s Champions League qualification hopes suffered a blow after an equaliser deep in stoppage time from Michael Obafemi earned Southampton a 2-2 draw in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> at Old Trafford on Monday.

United, unbeaten in 18 games in all competitions, were poised to move up to third after Anthony Martial’s 23rd minute strike had put them 2-1 ahead. They had fallen behind to an early Stuart Armstrong goal before Marcus Rashford equalised.

But on the day that second-placed Manchester City’s two-year ban from European football was overturned on appeal, meaning only the top four will qualify for the Champions League as usual, United’s late lapse left them fifth on 59 points.

Leicester City are fourth, ahead of United on goal difference, with Chelsea third on 60 points. City and title winners Liverpool have already secured Champions League places for next season.

Southampton took a shock lead in the 12th minute when Paul Pogba was robbed by Danny Ings just outside the area and Nathan Redmond’s cross found Armstrong at the back post where the Scottish midfielder slotted home.

Rashford then had the ball in the net, converting a low cross from Luke Shaw, but it was ruled out for offside although the United striker did not have to wait long to level.

Pogba played the ball in to Martial who held off two Saints defenders before poking the ball to Rashford and the striker made no mistake with a left-foot finish in the 20th minute.

Three minutes later United had the lead, Bruno Fernandes fed Martial on the left and the French international cut inside and smashed the ball home.

However, the home side never got a real grip on the game in midfield against a Southampton side that moved the ball well and constantly pressed.

United had to finish the game with 10 men after Brandon Williams went off injured, with manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer having no substitute opportunities, and they failed to hold on to the three points when Obafemi turned in a poorly defended corner at the back post.

James Ward-Prowse’s in-swinger was flicked on by Jan Bednarek and Obafemi got in front of Victor Lindelof to find the decisive touch.

“The second half was a bit of a slog, we were not good enough on the ball. We brought pressure on to ourselves but we felt we did enough to win the game,” said United captain Harry Maguire.

“We have improved on defending set plays. We had a terrible record at the start of the season but have been really good on them. Can’t get let him get a header in when we have four men around the goal so have to look at it.

“We are disappointed a the moment but we dust ourselves down tomorrow,” he added.

Manchester United’s Champions League qualification hopes suffered a blow after an equaliser deep in stoppage time from Michael Obafemi earned Southampton a 2-2 draw in the Premier League at Old Trafford on Monday.

Manchester United’s Champions League qualification hopes suffered a blow after an equaliser deep in stoppage time from Michael Obafemi earned Southampton a 2-2 draw in the Premier League at Old Trafford on Monday. United, unbeaten in 18 games in all competitions, were poised to move up to third after Anthony Martial’s 23rd minute strike had put them 2-1 ahead. They had fallen behind to an early Stuart Armstrong goal before Marcus Rashford equalised. But on the day that second-placed Manchester City’s two-year ban from European football was overturned on appeal, meaning only the top four will qualify for the Champions League as usual, United’s late lapse left them fifth on 59 points. Leicester City are fourth, ahead of United on goal difference, with Chelsea third on 60 points. City and title winners Liverpool have already secured Champions League places for next season. Southampton took a shock lead in the 12th minute when Paul Pogba was robbed by Danny Ings just outside the area and Nathan Redmond’s cross found Armstrong at the back post where the Scottish midfielder slotted home. Rashford then had the ball in the net, converting a low cross from Luke Shaw, but it was ruled out for offside although the United striker did not have to wait long to level. Pogba played the ball in to Martial who held off two Saints defenders before poking the ball to Rashford and the striker made no mistake with a left-foot finish in the 20th minute. Three minutes later United had the lead, Bruno Fernandes fed Martial on the left and the French international cut inside and smashed the ball home. However, the home side never got a real grip on the game in midfield against a Southampton side that moved the ball well and constantly pressed. United had to finish the game with 10 men after Brandon Williams went off injured, with manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer having no substitute opportunities, and they failed to hold on to the three points when Obafemi turned in a poorly defended corner at the back post. James Ward-Prowse’s in-swinger was flicked on by Jan Bednarek and Obafemi got in front of Victor Lindelof to find the decisive touch. “The second half was a bit of a slog, we were not good enough on the ball. We brought pressure on to ourselves but we felt we did enough to win the game,” said United captain Harry Maguire. “We have improved on defending set plays. We had a terrible record at the start of the season but have been really good on them. Can’t get let him get a header in when we have four men around the goal so have to look at it. “We are disappointed a the moment but we dust ourselves down tomorrow,” he added.

Premier League: United stay fifth after Saints grab last-gasp leveller

England limited-overs skipper Eoin Morgan has said he felt really lucky not to be removed as captain after the 2015 World Cup fiasco. In 2015, England was knocked out of the 50-over World Cup in the group stages with the side failing to make it to the knockouts. But the Three Lions came back stronger and sealed an emphatic triumph in the 2019 edition of the showpiece tournament.

Morgan, who was speaking at an ICC podcast titled ‘CWC Rewind’ with Ian Bishop and Nasser Hussain and the English captain talked about the 2015 World Cup.

"The most significant appointment following the 2015 World Cup was the appointment of Andrew Strauss as the Director of Cricket. He actually had seen first hand what had happened during the World Cup, he recognised the need for significant change within the group," Morgan said during the interaction.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/disappointed-for-getting-out-before-west-indies-could-cross-the-line-blackwood-313284" hreflang="en">Disappointed for getting out before West Indies could cross the line: Blackwood</a>

"For a guy to come in such a prominent role and to make changes in such a fast manner was very significant. I was kept on as skipper of the side and I do feel lucky to be retained as the skipper of the side, Trevor Bayliss was appointed as the coach and we started playing an aggressive brand of cricket and that was very exciting for all of us," he added.

During the interaction, Morgan also said the relationship with coach Trevor Bayliss was exceptional and it enabled the side to perform well. "I thought the relationship with Bayliss worked really well before he was appointed as the coach of England, we had spent some time with Kolkata Knight Riders, building the relationship with him did not take long," Morgan said. "Once we worked out what the goal was, it was about putting the strategy in place, Bayliss was ready to take the backseat," he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-likely-to-discuss-fate-of-t20-world-cup-2020-in-next-board-meeting-313230" hreflang="en">ICC likely to discuss fate of T20 World Cup 2020 in next board meeting</a>

After the 2015 World Cup, England changed their approach in the white-ball format and went on to become a very aggressive side in the format. The management of the side chose white-ball specialists and this all proved fruitful as the side won the 2019 World Cup.

During the interaction with Morgan and Bishop, Nasser Hussain credited Morgan and coach Trevor Bayliss for keeping the mindset of the side clear and for not letting anyone doubt their approach. The Eoin Morgan-led side defeated New Zealand in the finals of the 2019 World Cup on the basis of the boundary-countback rule.

(With inputs from ANI) 
&nbsp;

England limited-overs skipper Eoin Morgan has said he felt really lucky not to be removed as captain after the 2015 World Cup fiasco. In 2015, England was knocked out of the 50-over World Cup in the group stages with the side failing to make it to the knockouts.

England limited-overs skipper Eoin Morgan has said he felt really lucky not to be removed as captain after the 2015 World Cup fiasco. In 2015, England was knocked out of the 50-over World Cup in the group stages with the side failing to make it to the knockouts. But the Three Lions came back stronger and sealed an emphatic triumph in the 2019 edition of the showpiece tournament. Morgan, who was speaking at an ICC podcast titled ‘CWC Rewind’ with Ian Bishop and Nasser Hussain and the English captain talked about the 2015 World Cup. "The most significant appointment following the 2015 World Cup was the appointment of Andrew Strauss as the Director of Cricket. He actually had seen first hand what had happened during the World Cup, he recognised the need for significant change within the group," Morgan said during the interaction. ALSO READ: Disappointed for getting out before West Indies could cross the line: Blackwood "For a guy to come in such a prominent role and to make changes in such a fast manner was very significant. I was kept on as skipper of the side and I do feel lucky to be retained as the skipper of the side, Trevor Bayliss was appointed as the coach and we started playing an aggressive brand of cricket and that was very exciting for all of us," he added. During the interaction, Morgan also said the relationship with coach Trevor Bayliss was exceptional and it enabled the side to perform well. "I thought the relationship with Bayliss worked really well before he was appointed as the coach of England, we had spent some time with Kolkata Knight Riders, building the relationship with him did not take long," Morgan said. "Once we worked out what the goal was, it was about putting the strategy in place, Bayliss was ready to take the backseat," he added. ALSO READ: ICC likely to discuss fate of T20 World Cup 2020 in next board meeting After the 2015 World Cup, England changed their approach in the white-ball format and went on to become a very aggressive side in the format. The management of the side chose white-ball specialists and this all proved fruitful as the side won the 2019 World Cup. During the interaction with Morgan and Bishop, Nasser Hussain credited Morgan and coach Trevor Bayliss for keeping the mindset of the side clear and for not letting anyone doubt their approach. The Eoin Morgan-led side defeated New Zealand in the finals of the 2019 World Cup on the basis of the boundary-countback rule. (With inputs from ANI)

Felt lucky to be retained as captain after 2015 World Cup: Eoin Morgan

Jermaine Blackwood was the man of the hour for the <a href="England vs West Indies 1st Test: Blackwood, Gabriel steal show as visitors take 1-0 lead in series">West Indies in the recently concluded first Test against England</a> as the Windies batter scored a match-winning 95 in the second innings but was left disappointed after he was dismissed before the visitors could cross the winning line.&nbsp;

Blackwood said that he wasn’t thinking about the century but was more determined to take his team over the winning line. But an ill-timed lofted stroke, when he was at 95, allowed the ball to travel straight to the hands of James Anderson at mid-off. However, the Windies were still able to secure the historic win as they took a 1-0 lead in the three-match Test series.

The 28-year-old has always been successful against England, averaging over 50 with his only Test century also registered against England in Antigua in 2015.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-vs-west-indies-five-things-we-learned-from-the-first-test-312971" hreflang="en">England vs West Indies: Five things we learned from the first Test</a>

"I was very disappointed in myself when I got out at that stage of the game," Blackwood, who had scored 187 runs with a top score of 79 not out during his last tour of England, told the Jamaica Observer.

"It was very emotional for me when I got out, not because I got out, it was because I didn't take my team across the line. I wasn't thinking about the hundred, I was just thinking about winning the game for my team."

The right-handed batsman, who has scored 1469 runs in 29 Tests for England so far, acknowledged the confidence shown by his captain Jason Holder and coach Phil Simmons.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tendulkar-slams-loopholes-in-umpire-referral-system-312969" hreflang="en">Tendulkar slams loopholes in umpire referral system</a>

Coming to bat with West Indies tottering at 27-3, Blackwood rode his luck and guided his team closer to the target before a moment's lapse of concentration saw him hit straight to Jimmy Anderson at mid-off in the 61st over.

"When you know that the captain has all confidence in you it just makes you feel good. I know Jason from way back from my Under-15 days, so he knows what I'm capable of doing," he said.

"At no point in time when I was going to bat in the second innings I felt pressure. Just before I went out to bat, the coach (Phil Simmons) and the captain both told me just to play my natural game, but just be selective."

The second Test begins at Old Trafford on Thursday.

(With inputs from PTI) 
&nbsp;

Jermaine Blackwood was the man of the hour for the West Indies in the recently concluded first Test against England as the Windies batter scored a match-winning 95 in the second innings but was left disappointed after he was dismissed before the visitors could cross the winning line.

Jermaine Blackwood was the man of the hour for the West Indies in the recently concluded first Test against England as the Windies batter scored a match-winning 95 in the second innings but was left disappointed after he was dismissed before the visitors could cross the winning line. Blackwood said that he wasn’t thinking about the century but was more determined to take his team over the winning line. But an ill-timed lofted stroke, when he was at 95, allowed the ball to travel straight to the hands of James Anderson at mid-off. However, the Windies were still able to secure the historic win as they took a 1-0 lead in the three-match Test series. The 28-year-old has always been successful against England, averaging over 50 with his only Test century also registered against England in Antigua in 2015. ALSO READ: England vs West Indies: Five things we learned from the first Test "I was very disappointed in myself when I got out at that stage of the game," Blackwood, who had scored 187 runs with a top score of 79 not out during his last tour of England, told the Jamaica Observer. "It was very emotional for me when I got out, not because I got out, it was because I didn't take my team across the line. I wasn't thinking about the hundred, I was just thinking about winning the game for my team." The right-handed batsman, who has scored 1469 runs in 29 Tests for England so far, acknowledged the confidence shown by his captain Jason Holder and coach Phil Simmons. ALSO READ: Tendulkar slams loopholes in umpire referral system Coming to bat with West Indies tottering at 27-3, Blackwood rode his luck and guided his team closer to the target before a moment's lapse of concentration saw him hit straight to Jimmy Anderson at mid-off in the 61st over. "When you know that the captain has all confidence in you it just makes you feel good. I know Jason from way back from my Under-15 days, so he knows what I'm capable of doing," he said. "At no point in time when I was going to bat in the second innings I felt pressure. Just before I went out to bat, the coach (Phil Simmons) and the captain both told me just to play my natural game, but just be selective." The second Test begins at Old Trafford on Thursday. (With inputs from PTI)

Disappointed for getting out before West Indies could cross the line: Blackwood

NBA star Russell Westbrook revealed Monday he has tested positive for COVID-19 as the league gears up for its return in Florida later this month.

Houston Rockets star Westbrook, the 2017 Most Valuable Player and one of the biggest names in the NBA, said in a statement he was feeling well and was in isolation.

"I tested positive for COVID-19 prior to my team's departure to Orlando," Westbrook said on Twitter.&nbsp;

"I'm currently feeling well, quarantined and looking forward to rejoining my teammates when I am cleared. Thank you all for the well wishes and continued support," the 31-year-old added.

"Please take this virus seriously. Be safe. Mask up!"

Westbrook was one of several Rockets players who did not travel to Orlando, where the NBA will resume its season on July 30 after a four-month shutdown due to the coronavirus pandemic.

As well as Westbrook, fellow superstar James Harden and Cameroon international Luc Mbah a Moute also did not travel, although the team has not given a reason for their absence.

Rockets coach Mike D'Antoni on Sunday said Westbrook, Harden and Mbah a Moute were "working in their own home base."

"We're still expecting them in a few days," D'Antoni said. "You never know, but we think we'll get them back in here by the middle of the week.

D'Antoni would not comment on why the players had not travelled with the team.

"These are things that people are dealing with," he said. "We're not going to get into why not. They're on their way."

Westbrook is one of several NBA players to have tested positive for COVID-19, joining a list which includes Brooklyn's Kevin Durant, Boston's Marcus Smart and Utah Jazz duo Rudy Gobert and Donovan Mitchell.

NBA star Russell Westbrook revealed Monday he has tested positive for COVID-19 as the league gears up for its return in Florida later this month. Houston Rockets star Westbrook, the 2017 Most Valuable Player and one of the biggest names in the NBA, said in a statement he was feeling well and was in isolation.

NBA star Russell Westbrook revealed Monday he has tested positive for COVID-19 as the league gears up for its return in Florida later this month. Houston Rockets star Westbrook, the 2017 Most Valuable Player and one of the biggest names in the NBA, said in a statement he was feeling well and was in isolation. "I tested positive for COVID-19 prior to my team's departure to Orlando," Westbrook said on Twitter. "I'm currently feeling well, quarantined and looking forward to rejoining my teammates when I am cleared. Thank you all for the well wishes and continued support," the 31-year-old added. "Please take this virus seriously. Be safe. Mask up!" Westbrook was one of several Rockets players who did not travel to Orlando, where the NBA will resume its season on July 30 after a four-month shutdown due to the coronavirus pandemic. As well as Westbrook, fellow superstar James Harden and Cameroon international Luc Mbah a Moute also did not travel, although the team has not given a reason for their absence. Rockets coach Mike D'Antoni on Sunday said Westbrook, Harden and Mbah a Moute were "working in their own home base." "We're still expecting them in a few days," D'Antoni said. "You never know, but we think we'll get them back in here by the middle of the week. D'Antoni would not comment on why the players had not travelled with the team. "These are things that people are dealing with," he said. "We're not going to get into why not. They're on their way." Westbrook is one of several NBA players to have tested positive for COVID-19, joining a list which includes Brooklyn's Kevin Durant, Boston's Marcus Smart and Utah Jazz duo Rudy Gobert and Donovan Mitchell.

NBA star Westbrook tests positive for COVID-19

Germany will host Turkey and the Czech Republic in international friendlies this autumn as part of their Nations League preparations, the German FA confirmed Monday.

Germany plan to host Turkey in Cologne on October 7 and the Czech Republic in Leipzig on November 11 followed by Nations League games against either Spain, Ukraine or Switzerland.

On Friday, the German FA confirmed they will host Spain in Cologne on September 3, then face the Swiss away three days later, both in the Nations League.

The home friendly against Turkey on October 7 starts a run of three internationals in six days before Nations League matches away to Ukraine and home to Switzerland.

Likewise, the friendly against the Czechs on November 11 comes before back-to-back Nations League matches at home to Ukraine, then away to Spain.

"We would like to use the international matches in the autumn to give our young team some matches," said Germany head coach Joachim Loew.

"With a view to next year's European Championship we want to grow together and these games will give us important insights for the team's development."

Matches in Germany are currently played behind closed doors due to the coronavirus pandemic but Loew added that he "hopes" fans will be allowed to watch his team in stadiums again this autumn.

Germany have yet to play an international in 2020 after friendlies against Spain, Italy and Switzerland were called off due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

Germany will host Turkey and the Czech Republic in international friendlies this autumn as part of their Nations League preparations, the German FA confirmed Monday.

Germany will host Turkey and the Czech Republic in international friendlies this autumn as part of their Nations League preparations, the German FA confirmed Monday. Germany plan to host Turkey in Cologne on October 7 and the Czech Republic in Leipzig on November 11 followed by Nations League games against either Spain, Ukraine or Switzerland. On Friday, the German FA confirmed they will host Spain in Cologne on September 3, then face the Swiss away three days later, both in the Nations League. The home friendly against Turkey on October 7 starts a run of three internationals in six days before Nations League matches away to Ukraine and home to Switzerland. Likewise, the friendly against the Czechs on November 11 comes before back-to-back Nations League matches at home to Ukraine, then away to Spain. "We would like to use the international matches in the autumn to give our young team some matches," said Germany head coach Joachim Loew. "With a view to next year's European Championship we want to grow together and these games will give us important insights for the team's development." Matches in Germany are currently played behind closed doors due to the coronavirus pandemic but Loew added that he "hopes" fans will be allowed to watch his team in stadiums again this autumn. Germany have yet to play an international in 2020 after friendlies against Spain, Italy and Switzerland were called off due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

Germany confirm home friendlies against Turkey, Czech Republic

With <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-win-appeal-at-cas-as-champions-league-ban-is-lifted-312955">Manchester City’s two-year ban on European competitions being lifted by the Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS)</a>, reactions have started to flood in. While <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-a-good-day-for-football-jurgen-klopp-reacts-to-cas-verdict-on-man-city-vs-uefa-case-313242">Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said that it was not a good day for football</a>, Pep Guardiola’s long-term rival and current Tottenham Hotspur manager Jose Mourinho has also given his take on the matter.&nbsp;

Mourinho said that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-win-appeal-at-cas-as-champions-league-ban-is-lifted-312955">decision by CAS</a> is ‘disgraceful’ while stating if Man City are not guilty then they shouldn’t be punished with a 10 million euros fine. It seems like Mourinho didn’t read the entire statement by CAS as it clearly mentioned that “Manchester City didn’t disguise equity funding as sponsorship contributions” but did fail to cooperate with the UEFA authorities in relation to the investigation and hence, the Blues were fined 10 million euros.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-a-good-day-for-football-jurgen-klopp-reacts-to-cas-verdict-on-man-city-vs-uefa-case-313242" hreflang="en">Not a good day for football: Jurgen Klopp reacts to CAS verdict on Man City vs UEFA case</a>

“In the case it's a disgraceful decision because if City are not guilty of it then you are not punished with 10m. If you're not guilty you shouldn't have a fine. If they are guilty the decision is also a disgrace and you should be banned from the competition. I don't know if Manchester City are guilty or not but either way it's a disgraceful decision,” Mourinho said in the pre-match press conference on Tuesday ahead of Spurs’ <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> match against Newcastle United.

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😂 Try to watch this with a straight face, you can’t... 
 
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Another tragic news that came in Tottenham Hotspur’s way was the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tottenham-hotspur-defender-serge-auriers-brother-shot-dead-in-toulouse-312978">killing of Serge Aurier’s younger brother Christopher Aurier</a> as the latter was shot to death in Toulouse on Monday. Mourinho while reacting to the news said that it is a tragic moment for the Aurier family while adding the club is going to respect whatever decision Serge takes in terms of being available for the match against Newcastle.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-united-stay-fifth-after-saints-grab-last-gasp-leveller-313176" hreflang="en">Premier League: United stay fifth after Saints grab last-gasp leveller</a>

“At the moment just myself and others in the club spoke to him just to support him in a tragic moment for him and his family. His way of reacting, every person is a different feeling. So we are going to respect 100 per cent&nbsp;Serge's decisions and no pressure from us. This afternoon after training we'll have a better idea of how he is feeling. Everybody reacts in a different way. Similar feelings and pain but people react in a different way,” Mourinho said.

With Manchester City’s two-year ban on European competitions being lifted by the Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS), reactions have started to flood in. While Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said that it was not a good day for football, Pep Guardiola’s long-term rival and current Tottenham Hotspur manager Jose Mourinho has also given his take on the matter.

With Manchester City’s two-year ban on European competitions being lifted by the Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS), reactions have started to flood in. While Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said that it was not a good day for football, Pep Guardiola’s long-term rival and current Tottenham Hotspur manager Jose Mourinho has also given his take on the matter. Mourinho said that the decision by CAS is ‘disgraceful’ while stating if Man City are not guilty then they shouldn’t be punished with a 10 million euros fine. It seems like Mourinho didn’t read the entire statement by CAS as it clearly mentioned that “Manchester City didn’t disguise equity funding as sponsorship contributions” but did fail to cooperate with the UEFA authorities in relation to the investigation and hence, the Blues were fined 10 million euros. ALSO READ: Not a good day for football: Jurgen Klopp reacts to CAS verdict on Man City vs UEFA case “In the case it's a disgraceful decision because if City are not guilty of it then you are not punished with 10m. If you're not guilty you shouldn't have a fine. If they are guilty the decision is also a disgrace and you should be banned from the competition. I don't know if Manchester City are guilty or not but either way it's a disgraceful decision,” Mourinho said in the pre-match press conference on Tuesday ahead of Spurs’ Premier League match against Newcastle United. 😂 Try to watch this with a straight face, you can’t... [via @footballdaily]pic.twitter.com/ksAp2F0KsP — Man City Xtra (@City_Xtra) July 14, 2020 × Another tragic news that came in Tottenham Hotspur’s way was the killing of Serge Aurier’s younger brother Christopher Aurier as the latter was shot to death in Toulouse on Monday. Mourinho while reacting to the news said that it is a tragic moment for the Aurier family while adding the club is going to respect whatever decision Serge takes in terms of being available for the match against Newcastle. ALSO READ: Premier League: United stay fifth after Saints grab last-gasp leveller “At the moment just myself and others in the club spoke to him just to support him in a tragic moment for him and his family. His way of reacting, every person is a different feeling. So we are going to respect 100 per cent Serge's decisions and no pressure from us. This afternoon after training we'll have a better idea of how he is feeling. Everybody reacts in a different way. Similar feelings and pain but people react in a different way,” Mourinho said.

'It's a disgraceful decision' - Jose Mourinho gives his take on CAS verdict on Man City's European ban

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has reacted to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-win-appeal-at-cas-as-champions-league-ban-is-lifted-312955">Manchester City’s win against UEFA at the Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS)</a> as their two-season European competition ban was lifted. Klopp said that while he was happy that Man City will be playing in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/uefa-champions-league">UEFA Champions League</a> but added that it was not a good day for football.

“I'm happy that City are in the Champions League... otherwise they'd have 12 games less and then they wouldn't need to rest players in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a>!” Klopp said in the pre-match press conference ahead of the match against Arsenal in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a>.

Klopp’s comments come after CAS found that Man City didn’t disguise equity funding as sponsorship contributions but fined the Blues a 10 million euros for failing to cooperate with the UEFA authorities.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-klopp-sends-congratulatory-message-to-wycombes-akinfewa-after-emotional-speech-313184" hreflang="en">Watch: Klopp sends congratulatory message to Wycombe's Akinfewa after emotional speech</a>

The CAS ruling meant that Man City had adhered to all the rules in relation to the FFP but despite that, the Liverpool manager said it was not a good day for football while adding FFP was created to protect teams and competitions.&nbsp;

There were question marks on FFP put out by certain media outlets and journalists after the decision on CAS but Klopp is of the view that FFP should stay as it gives an outline to what clubs can do and what they can’t.&nbsp;

<h2>'Yesterday was not a good day for football': Jurgen Klopp on CAS judgement on Man City vs UEFA</h2>

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/factbox-manchester-citys-european-ban-overturned-by-cas-312972" hreflang="en">Factbox - Manchester City's European ban overturned by CAS</a>

“But yesterday was not a good day for football. FFP is a good idea. It's there to protect teams and competition. I really hope FFP stays, because it gives kind of borders, which is good for football. (Without it) it would create kind of a world super league,” Klopp added.

“If the richest clubs and countries can do what they want then that makes football difficult,” he further said.

Liverpool are set to take on Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal in the Premier League as the newly-crowned champions are eyeing to smash the 100-point record set by Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has reacted to Manchester City’s win against UEFA at the Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS) as their two-season European competition ban was lifted.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has reacted to Manchester City’s win against UEFA at the Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS) as their two-season European competition ban was lifted. Klopp said that while he was happy that Man City will be playing in UEFA Champions League but added that it was not a good day for football. “I'm happy that City are in the Champions League... otherwise they'd have 12 games less and then they wouldn't need to rest players in the Premier League!” Klopp said in the pre-match press conference ahead of the match against Arsenal in the Premier League. Klopp’s comments come after CAS found that Man City didn’t disguise equity funding as sponsorship contributions but fined the Blues a 10 million euros for failing to cooperate with the UEFA authorities. Watch: Klopp sends congratulatory message to Wycombe's Akinfewa after emotional speech The CAS ruling meant that Man City had adhered to all the rules in relation to the FFP but despite that, the Liverpool manager said it was not a good day for football while adding FFP was created to protect teams and competitions. There were question marks on FFP put out by certain media outlets and journalists after the decision on CAS but Klopp is of the view that FFP should stay as it gives an outline to what clubs can do and what they can’t. 'Yesterday was not a good day for football': Jurgen Klopp on CAS judgement on Man City vs UEFA ALSO READ: Factbox - Manchester City's European ban overturned by CAS “But yesterday was not a good day for football. FFP is a good idea. It's there to protect teams and competition. I really hope FFP stays, because it gives kind of borders, which is good for football. (Without it) it would create kind of a world super league,” Klopp added. “If the richest clubs and countries can do what they want then that makes football difficult,” he further said. Liverpool are set to take on Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal in the Premier League as the newly-crowned champions are eyeing to smash the 100-point record set by Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City.

Not a good day for football: Jurgen Klopp reacts to CAS verdict on Man City vs UEFA case

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is likely to discuss the fate of the T20 World Cup 2020, scheduled to be held in Australia in October-November, in its next Board meeting. However, the date for the next ICC Board meeting is yet to be decided.&nbsp;

There are major chances that the ICC Board meeting takes place over the next week or so but there is no confirmed date for the same.&nbsp;

"As of now no date is decided, but it will be there over the next one week or so but date not confirmed," ICC sources told ANI.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-are-still-unsure-few-franchises-losing-hope-of-ipl-2020-312380" hreflang="en">'We are still unsure': Few franchises 'losing hope' of IPL 2020</a>

When asked about the agenda such as announcement on the postponement of T20 World Cup and ICC elections, the source added that no details have been issues but chances are likely that T20 World Cup will be discussed in the meeting.

Earlier in the month, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../shashank-manohar-quits-as-icc-chairman-imran -khawaja-named-interim-head-309930">ICC chairman Shashank Manohar had stepped down</a> after two, two-year tenures.

<h2>"As of now no details have been issued"</h2>

“As of now no details have been issued but there are chances that T20 WC will be discussed,” the source added. 
The T20 World Cup 2020 is scheduled to be played in Australia from October 18 to November 19 but is likely to be postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealand-offering-to-host-ipl-2020-is-speculation-nzc-spokesperson-311880" hreflang="en">New Zealand offering to host IPL 2020 is speculation: NZC spokesperson</a>

Meanwhile, the postponement of the T20 World Cup will open a window for the much-talked-about <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a> with the BCCI keen on conducting the cash-rich tournament be it in India or overseas. The UAE and Sri Lanka have already come forward in a bid to host the IPL 2020 and it will be interesting to see which option the BCCI picks. &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is likely to discuss the fate of the T20 World Cup 2020, scheduled to be held in Australia in October-November, in its next Board meeting.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is likely to discuss the fate of the T20 World Cup 2020, scheduled to be held in Australia in October-November, in its next Board meeting. However, the date for the next ICC Board meeting is yet to be decided. There are major chances that the ICC Board meeting takes place over the next week or so but there is no confirmed date for the same. "As of now no date is decided, but it will be there over the next one week or so but date not confirmed," ICC sources told ANI. ALSO READ: 'We are still unsure': Few franchises 'losing hope' of IPL 2020 When asked about the agenda such as announcement on the postponement of T20 World Cup and ICC elections, the source added that no details have been issues but chances are likely that T20 World Cup will be discussed in the meeting. Earlier in the month, ICC chairman Shashank Manohar had stepped down after two, two-year tenures. "As of now no details have been issued" “As of now no details have been issued but there are chances that T20 WC will be discussed,” the source added. The T20 World Cup 2020 is scheduled to be played in Australia from October 18 to November 19 but is likely to be postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. ALSO READ: New Zealand offering to host IPL 2020 is speculation: NZC spokesperson Meanwhile, the postponement of the T20 World Cup will open a window for the much-talked-about Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 with the BCCI keen on conducting the cash-rich tournament be it in India or overseas. The UAE and Sri Lanka have already come forward in a bid to host the IPL 2020 and it will be interesting to see which option the BCCI picks.

ICC likely to discuss fate of T20 World Cup 2020 in next board meeting

England are set keep faith with Jos Buttler despite defeat to West Indies in the first Test of a three-match series, but time may be up for Joe Denly.

Captain Joe Root is set to return for the second Test starting on Thursday at Old Trafford after missing the four-wicket defeat in Southampton to attend the birth of his second child.

The England selectors have big decisions to make after again losing the game with the bat rather than the ball despite the controversial omission of Stuart Broad.

An under-par 204 in the first innings and the loss of five wickets for 30 runs on the fourth evening set the platform for the tourists to take first blood.

Denly and Buttler were involved in both passages and find themselves increasingly under pressure for their places -- the former being squeezed by Root's return and Zak Crawley's fine 76 on Saturday, the latter from Surrey gloveman Ben Foakes.

England head coach Chris Silverwood, though, has only offered strong reassurance to one of the duo.

Buttler has a Test average of just 23.22 since the start of 2019 and now only one hundred in 75 innings.

"I'm not gonna go down that road yet of putting Jos under pressure, because I don't think it's going to help him," said Silverwood. "First and foremost we want to give Jos the best opportunity to succeed.

"But I'm sure he is asking the same questions. He looked brilliant coming into this game, in practice and everything and he looked very good in the first innings. He just needs to go and make those big scores now doesn't he? He knows that as well.

"From our point of view it's just making sure that he feels confident in the environment he's in."

There looks certain to be change higher up the order, though, with Denly's knocks of 18 and 29 doing little to show that he can haul his performances up to the required standard for a long-term Test number three.

At just 22, Crawley is 12 years Denley's junior and by producing England's top score of the match in tense circumstances in the second innings he appeared to make an irresistible grab for the shirt.

"We're all desperate to see Joe do really well. We can see he's trying hard, he's training hard and he's a great bloke, hence why we all went to see him do well," said Silverwood.

"But obviously he's under pressure a little bit, yes. Zak is improving constantly. I think he certainly showed maturity and the innings he played was very good.

"We have some young players in that side that seem to have good heads on their shoulders, and he's one of them. That's what we are looking for."

England are set keep faith with Jos Buttler despite defeat to West Indies in the first Test of a three-match series, but time may be up for Joe Denly. Captain Joe Root is set to return for the second Test starting on Thursday at Old Trafford after missing the four-wicket defeat in Southampton to attend the birth of his second child.

England are set keep faith with Jos Buttler despite defeat to West Indies in the first Test of a three-match series, but time may be up for Joe Denly. Captain Joe Root is set to return for the second Test starting on Thursday at Old Trafford after missing the four-wicket defeat in Southampton to attend the birth of his second child. The England selectors have big decisions to make after again losing the game with the bat rather than the ball despite the controversial omission of Stuart Broad. An under-par 204 in the first innings and the loss of five wickets for 30 runs on the fourth evening set the platform for the tourists to take first blood. Denly and Buttler were involved in both passages and find themselves increasingly under pressure for their places -- the former being squeezed by Root's return and Zak Crawley's fine 76 on Saturday, the latter from Surrey gloveman Ben Foakes. England head coach Chris Silverwood, though, has only offered strong reassurance to one of the duo. Buttler has a Test average of just 23.22 since the start of 2019 and now only one hundred in 75 innings. "I'm not gonna go down that road yet of putting Jos under pressure, because I don't think it's going to help him," said Silverwood. "First and foremost we want to give Jos the best opportunity to succeed. "But I'm sure he is asking the same questions. He looked brilliant coming into this game, in practice and everything and he looked very good in the first innings. He just needs to go and make those big scores now doesn't he? He knows that as well. "From our point of view it's just making sure that he feels confident in the environment he's in." There looks certain to be change higher up the order, though, with Denly's knocks of 18 and 29 doing little to show that he can haul his performances up to the required standard for a long-term Test number three. At just 22, Crawley is 12 years Denley's junior and by producing England's top score of the match in tense circumstances in the second innings he appeared to make an irresistible grab for the shirt. "We're all desperate to see Joe do really well. We can see he's trying hard, he's training hard and he's a great bloke, hence why we all went to see him do well," said Silverwood. "But obviously he's under pressure a little bit, yes. Zak is improving constantly. I think he certainly showed maturity and the innings he played was very good. "We have some young players in that side that seem to have good heads on their shoulders, and he's one of them. That's what we are looking for."

ENG vs WI 2nd Test: England to back Buttler, but Denly in the firing line

Manchester City have become the dominant force in English football over the past decade but are still waiting for the final piece in the Abu Dhabi project jigsaw -- the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/uefa-champions-league">Champions League</a> title.

Backed by Sheikh Mansour's immense wealth, inspired by Pep Guardiola's managerial genius and boasting a cast of superstars, the club have greedily scooped up 11 major trophies in nine years.

Yet the prize that has eluded them is the Champions League, which the owners crave above all else.

<a href="Manchester City win appeal at CAS as Champions League ban is lifted">Monday's ruling from the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS)</a>, lifting a two-season UEFA ban from European competition, will give Guardiola's men a huge lift for this season and next as they chase elusive European glory.

They can now prepare for the second leg of their last-16 tie at home against Real Madrid, leading 2-1, safe in the knowledge that they will be back at Europe's top table next season.

City's great fear was if CAS upheld UEFA's ban, imposed in February, players would look to elsewhere and Guardiola himself could even lose interest.

Now they can not only retain their best players, but look to recruit more talent in a bid to take back the Premier League title from Liverpool.

"From a footballing perspective, it is good to know that Pep Guardiola may now extend his contract as City manager beyond next season, continuing to raise coaching standards in this country," said the Times.

"It is a joy to know that Kevin De Bruyne, the finest midfield player in the world on present form, may stay on, enchanting audiences with his extraordinary passing style."

City have already lifted the League Cup this season and are well-placed in the FA Cup.

But they know that to be considered a member of the established European elite, they must win the Champions League.

<h2>- Corporate giant -</h2>

The club's transformation from Premier League also-rans into a European force over the past 12 years has been remarkable.

For so many years they were the perennially underachieving neighbours of mighty Manchester United.

But under Mansour and chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak, the struggling club have become a global footballing behemoth.

When Mansour and his Abu Dhabi United Group purchased City from Thailand's Thaksin Shinawatra for £210 million ($265 million) on September 1, 2008, they arrived to find a club languishing in United's shadow after finishing 32 points behind the champions the previous season.

City's inferiority complex was well-founded after decades of failure. When United won an unprecedented treble of Champions League, Premier League and FA Cup in 1998/99, City were languishing in the third tier.

It is a different story at the Etihad now after four Premier League titles in the past nine seasons as well as a wealth of cup success.

The squad is brimful of international talent, led by global stars such as Kevin De Bruyne, Raheem Sterling and Sergio Aguero, with Guardiola demanding the highest standards.

"People forget that 10 years ago it was unthinkable that City would get to this place," one former senior City executive told Britain's Daily Mail newspaper in 2018 -- a decade after the takeover.

"Building the club that Guardiola took over meant building a world-class team. Players had either never heard of us or weren't interested in us."

Mansour's first signing for City was Robinho, a Brazilian forward then regarded as one of the world's most promising youngsters.

That set the tone for the decade to come as Mansour kept spending until the silverware finally rolled in, starting with the club's first FA Cup for 42 years in 2011.&nbsp;

Then in a landmark moment, Roberto Mancini's side stole the Premier League title from United's grasp in 2012 thanks to&nbsp;Aguero's last-gasp winner against QPR.

Ferguson retired in 2013, sparking a decline at Old Trafford and paving the way for the club he derided as the "noisy neighbours" to fill the power vacuum in spectacular style.

The changes have not just been on the field, with huge investment also made in the state-of-the-art City Football Academy, while Mansour's City Football Group now have nine clubs in their global empire.

City are among the favourites to lift the Champions League this season -- a success that would now taste all the sweeter.

Manchester City have become the dominant force in English football over the past decade but are still waiting for the final piece in the Abu Dhabi project jigsaw -- the Champions League title.

Manchester City have become the dominant force in English football over the past decade but are still waiting for the final piece in the Abu Dhabi project jigsaw -- the Champions League title. Backed by Sheikh Mansour's immense wealth, inspired by Pep Guardiola's managerial genius and boasting a cast of superstars, the club have greedily scooped up 11 major trophies in nine years. Yet the prize that has eluded them is the Champions League, which the owners crave above all else. Monday's ruling from the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), lifting a two-season UEFA ban from European competition, will give Guardiola's men a huge lift for this season and next as they chase elusive European glory. They can now prepare for the second leg of their last-16 tie at home against Real Madrid, leading 2-1, safe in the knowledge that they will be back at Europe's top table next season. City's great fear was if CAS upheld UEFA's ban, imposed in February, players would look to elsewhere and Guardiola himself could even lose interest. Now they can not only retain their best players, but look to recruit more talent in a bid to take back the Premier League title from Liverpool. "From a footballing perspective, it is good to know that Pep Guardiola may now extend his contract as City manager beyond next season, continuing to raise coaching standards in this country," said the Times. "It is a joy to know that Kevin De Bruyne, the finest midfield player in the world on present form, may stay on, enchanting audiences with his extraordinary passing style." City have already lifted the League Cup this season and are well-placed in the FA Cup. But they know that to be considered a member of the established European elite, they must win the Champions League. - Corporate giant - The club's transformation from Premier League also-rans into a European force over the past 12 years has been remarkable. For so many years they were the perennially underachieving neighbours of mighty Manchester United. But under Mansour and chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak, the struggling club have become a global footballing behemoth. When Mansour and his Abu Dhabi United Group purchased City from Thailand's Thaksin Shinawatra for £210 million ($265 million) on September 1, 2008, they arrived to find a club languishing in United's shadow after finishing 32 points behind the champions the previous season. City's inferiority complex was well-founded after decades of failure. When United won an unprecedented treble of Champions League, Premier League and FA Cup in 1998/99, City were languishing in the third tier. It is a different story at the Etihad now after four Premier League titles in the past nine seasons as well as a wealth of cup success. The squad is brimful of international talent, led by global stars such as Kevin De Bruyne, Raheem Sterling and Sergio Aguero, with Guardiola demanding the highest standards. "People forget that 10 years ago it was unthinkable that City would get to this place," one former senior City executive told Britain's Daily Mail newspaper in 2018 -- a decade after the takeover. "Building the club that Guardiola took over meant building a world-class team. Players had either never heard of us or weren't interested in us." Mansour's first signing for City was Robinho, a Brazilian forward then regarded as one of the world's most promising youngsters. That set the tone for the decade to come as Mansour kept spending until the silverware finally rolled in, starting with the club's first FA Cup for 42 years in 2011. Then in a landmark moment, Roberto Mancini's side stole the Premier League title from United's grasp in 2012 thanks to Aguero's last-gasp winner against QPR. Ferguson retired in 2013, sparking a decline at Old Trafford and paving the way for the club he derided as the "noisy neighbours" to fill the power vacuum in spectacular style. The changes have not just been on the field, with huge investment also made in the state-of-the-art City Football Academy, while Mansour's City Football Group now have nine clubs in their global empire. City are among the favourites to lift the Champions League this season -- a success that would now taste all the sweeter.

CAS ruling protects Champions League dream for Man City's Abu Dhabi owners

With international cricket opening up, all eyes are on India as to when cricketing action will kick-start in the country. While the situation in the country is still grim with COVID-19 cases rising every day, fans are hopeful that live-action will commence soon. However, the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) hands are tied as they can’t finalise any decision relating to the resumption of cricket in India without the approval of the central government and respective state governments.&nbsp;

The BCCI is keen to start cricket action, at least practice sessions, by the next month or so but would require approvals from central and state governments. And the Indian board is still expecting a topsy-turvy season with a lot of tweaks given the quarantine rules and other health guidelines amid the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-india-matches-are-pcb-chairman-ehsan-mani-opines-on-indo-pak-bilateral-cricket-series-313192" hreflang="en">'Pakistan-India matches are...' - PCB Chairman Ehsan Mani opines on Indo-Pak bilateral cricket series</a>

"Please remember, without the central government and respective state government approvals, the BCCI cannot do anything," TOI quoted a source as saying in a report.

<h2>Changes in proposed schedule likely</h2>

"The present (interim) schedule for Australia tour was released by Cricket Australia (CA) with the first Test to begin on December 3. Also, to note is a three-match T20 series that was scheduled ahead of the Tests, to be followed by a three-match ODI series," added the source.

Cricket Australia (CA) had earlier announced the schedule of India’s tour. However, with the T20 World Cup set to be postponed, there could be quite a few changes in the schedule of India’s tour of Australia The start of the Test series could very well be pushed by a week.&nbsp;

"One of those two - either T20s or ODIs - will have to be cancelled. Most likely the T20s because the format was put in place keeping the T20 World Cup in Australia in mind. Now, that' not happening, and IPL is. The start of the Test series will also be pushed by a week," say those in the know.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-vs-west-indies-five-things-we-learned-from-the-first-test-312971" hreflang="en">England vs West Indies: Five things we learned from the first Test</a>

The BCCI president Sourav Ganguly sounded confident about India’s tour of Australia but asked for a ‘shorter quarantine’ window in order to allow players to train soon after reaching the country. However, CA is yet to respond to the request.&nbsp;

Forthcoming England’s tour of India where both the countries were scheduled to play five Tests could be reduced to three followed by T20Is and ODIs. &nbsp;

"The president talked about a shortened quarantine. What he may have meant was that players will go through two separate Corona tests before leaving for Australia and two tests after landing there and if all are negative, health authorities are indicating that two weeks of lockdown won't be necessarily mandatory. Teams can start practice," say sources.

"Changes will be made to that schedule too. England are likely to play three Tests in India instead of five, followed by five T20s and five ODIs. That will also help compensate the host broadcaster who lost the India-South Africa series in March due to Covid," sources added.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the fate of the ICC T20 World Cup is set to be announced on July 15. 
&nbsp;

With international cricket opening up, all eyes are on India as to when cricketing action will kick-start in the country. While the situation in the country is still grim with COVID-19 cases rising every day, fans are hopeful that live-action will commence soon.

With international cricket opening up, all eyes are on India as to when cricketing action will kick-start in the country. While the situation in the country is still grim with COVID-19 cases rising every day, fans are hopeful that live-action will commence soon. However, the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) hands are tied as they can’t finalise any decision relating to the resumption of cricket in India without the approval of the central government and respective state governments. The BCCI is keen to start cricket action, at least practice sessions, by the next month or so but would require approvals from central and state governments. And the Indian board is still expecting a topsy-turvy season with a lot of tweaks given the quarantine rules and other health guidelines amid the COVID-19 pandemic. ALSO READ: 'Pakistan-India matches are...' - PCB Chairman Ehsan Mani opines on Indo-Pak bilateral cricket series "Please remember, without the central government and respective state government approvals, the BCCI cannot do anything," TOI quoted a source as saying in a report. Changes in proposed schedule likely "The present (interim) schedule for Australia tour was released by Cricket Australia (CA) with the first Test to begin on December 3. Also, to note is a three-match T20 series that was scheduled ahead of the Tests, to be followed by a three-match ODI series," added the source. Cricket Australia (CA) had earlier announced the schedule of India’s tour. However, with the T20 World Cup set to be postponed, there could be quite a few changes in the schedule of India’s tour of Australia The start of the Test series could very well be pushed by a week. "One of those two - either T20s or ODIs - will have to be cancelled. Most likely the T20s because the format was put in place keeping the T20 World Cup in Australia in mind. Now, that' not happening, and IPL is. The start of the Test series will also be pushed by a week," say those in the know. ALSO READ: England vs West Indies: Five things we learned from the first Test The BCCI president Sourav Ganguly sounded confident about India’s tour of Australia but asked for a ‘shorter quarantine’ window in order to allow players to train soon after reaching the country. However, CA is yet to respond to the request. Forthcoming England’s tour of India where both the countries were scheduled to play five Tests could be reduced to three followed by T20Is and ODIs. "The president talked about a shortened quarantine. What he may have meant was that players will go through two separate Corona tests before leaving for Australia and two tests after landing there and if all are negative, health authorities are indicating that two weeks of lockdown won't be necessarily mandatory. Teams can start practice," say sources. "Changes will be made to that schedule too. England are likely to play three Tests in India instead of five, followed by five T20s and five ODIs. That will also help compensate the host broadcaster who lost the India-South Africa series in March due to Covid," sources added. Meanwhile, the fate of the ICC T20 World Cup is set to be announced on July 15.

'BCCI can't do anything without government approvals' - India's 2021-21 cricket schedule hangs in balance

A bilateral series between India and Pakistan could be helpful for international cricket, Chairman of Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) said while reflecting on the current health of international cricket. However, Mani said that the PCB doesn’t take India-Pakistan bilateral series into account while planning their schedule.

Notably, India and Pakistan have not held any bilateral series due to sour diplomatic relationship but both the arch-rivals continue to lock horns in International Cricket Council (ICC) and Asian Cricket Council (ACC) events. The last time both the team met was in the ICC World Cup 2019, where the Men in Blue continued their winning run against Pakistan in 50-over World Cup.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-vs-west-indies-five-things-we-learned-from-the-first-test-312971" hreflang="en">England vs West Indies: Five things we learned from the first Test</a>

<h2>Pakistan-India matches are the most-watched cricket matches in the world: Ehsan Mani</h2>

"Pakistan-India matches are the most-watched cricket matches in the world[...] It is good for the health of global cricket that we play against each other, however, in our planning we do not take into account any bilateral series against India," Mani told Cricbuzz.

Recently, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../official-asia-cup-2020-postponed-sri-lanka-to- host-tournament-in-2021-311999">Asia Cup 2020 became the latest victim of the coronavirus pandemic as the event was postponed to 2021</a>. Notably, Pakistan and Sri Lanka have swapped hosting rights, which allows the latter to host the event in 2021 with Pakistan taking the baton in 2022.

Mani is of the view that the financial impact of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../official-asia-cup-2020-postponed-sri-lanka-to- host-tournament-in-2021-311999">postponement of Asia Cup</a> on Pakistan is minimal while adding Sri Lanka was given the hosting rights as they would be in “a better position” as compared to other countries due to COVID-19.&nbsp;

"The financial impact on Pakistan is minimal; the importance of the Asia Cup is that it generates funds for the development of the emerging cricket nations in Asia. There is [a] complete consensus within ACC on the timing of the Asia Cup," Mani said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-are-still-unsure-few-franchises-losing-hope-of-ipl-2020-312380" hreflang="en">'We are still unsure': Few franchises 'losing hope' of IPL 2020</a>

Talking about PCB's relations with BCCI, he said that the PCB has "issues" with the latter but "I do not have a fear that some countries will put their interests ahead of what is good for the game as a whole."

"We all owe a duty of care to the global game and the well-being of world cricket and not put our short term interests before it," Mani added. 
&nbsp;

A bilateral series between India and Pakistan could be helpful for international cricket, Chairman of Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) said while reflecting on the current health of international cricket.

A bilateral series between India and Pakistan could be helpful for international cricket, Chairman of Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) said while reflecting on the current health of international cricket. However, Mani said that the PCB doesn’t take India-Pakistan bilateral series into account while planning their schedule. Notably, India and Pakistan have not held any bilateral series due to sour diplomatic relationship but both the arch-rivals continue to lock horns in International Cricket Council (ICC) and Asian Cricket Council (ACC) events. The last time both the team met was in the ICC World Cup 2019, where the Men in Blue continued their winning run against Pakistan in 50-over World Cup. ALSO READ: England vs West Indies: Five things we learned from the first Test Pakistan-India matches are the most-watched cricket matches in the world: Ehsan Mani "Pakistan-India matches are the most-watched cricket matches in the world[...] It is good for the health of global cricket that we play against each other, however, in our planning we do not take into account any bilateral series against India," Mani told Cricbuzz. Recently, the Asia Cup 2020 became the latest victim of the coronavirus pandemic as the event was postponed to 2021. Notably, Pakistan and Sri Lanka have swapped hosting rights, which allows the latter to host the event in 2021 with Pakistan taking the baton in 2022. Mani is of the view that the financial impact of postponement of Asia Cup on Pakistan is minimal while adding Sri Lanka was given the hosting rights as they would be in “a better position” as compared to other countries due to COVID-19. "The financial impact on Pakistan is minimal; the importance of the Asia Cup is that it generates funds for the development of the emerging cricket nations in Asia. There is [a] complete consensus within ACC on the timing of the Asia Cup," Mani said. ALSO READ: 'We are still unsure': Few franchises 'losing hope' of IPL 2020 Talking about PCB's relations with BCCI, he said that the PCB has "issues" with the latter but "I do not have a fear that some countries will put their interests ahead of what is good for the game as a whole." "We all owe a duty of care to the global game and the well-being of world cricket and not put our short term interests before it," Mani added.

'Pakistan-India matches are...' - PCB Chairman Ehsan Mani opines on Indo-Pak bilateral cricket series

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