International cricket returned with a bang! Test cricket returned with its nerve-wracking sessions and battle between the willow and the red cherry. Before the first Test between England and the West Indies commenced at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton, there were whispers how it would pan out. Will players be fully up for it, will not playing cricket for 117 days take a toll on the players? And every question was thrown out of the window as both England and West Indies produced cricket of the highest quality upon the return of international cricket.

The West Indies led by the ever-dependable Jason Holder clinched a fairly comfortable four-wicket win in Southampton while taking a 1-0 lead in the series. While the word comfortable may sound like a cake-walk, it wasn’t the case at all. The game felt like a pendulum as the dong moved to and fro between the two sides with each passing session.&nbsp;

<img alt="ENG vs WI 1st Test" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3676f325-c533-4397-b4be-d3daf98c92b1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1UT9P1_0.jpg" />

Day 1 started with a game of hide&nbsp;and seek with the rain gods as the world witnessed little action on the first day. After a delayed start, England’s Test skipper for the match, Ben Stokes opted to bat first under overseas condition, on a pitch which certainly had some sort of moisture due to persistent rain in the build-up to the match. The move to bat first raised a few eyebrows.&nbsp;

<img alt="ENG vs WI 1st Test" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="66409bb2-a364-4f31-b5e1-085b48f4529d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1UV91P.jpg" />

The red ball, on which saliva can’t be used due to the ban imposed by the ICC to curb the spread of coronavirus, was handed over to Kemar Roach and Shannon Gabriel. But before the first ball of the match was bowled, all the players and staff took a knee in support for the Black Lives Matter movement.&nbsp;Ten balls into the game, Dom Sibley’s stumps were dislodged by a peach by Gabriel. The ball moved a bit but to some extent, it was a rusty judgement by the English opener. Rory Burns and Joe Denly took charge in the middle and saw off a splendid spell of bowling by Roach and Gabriel.&nbsp;

However, it was Gabriel again who produced magic to send the ball through the gates of Denly, reminding the Englishman of his IPL debut for KKR. Burns was next to follow and it was Gabriel again who did the damage.&nbsp;

<img alt="ENG vs WI 1st Test" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0d00f713-3693-4c58-98d4-de81bed1751c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1UV9PE.jpg" />

Following the initial spell by Gabriel and Roach, it was time for ‘Captain West Indies’ to stand up and produce what he has been doing for the last few years. Even though Holder is not someone who would terrorise batsmen with his pace, he showed what damage testing line and length can do. Holder made the ball talk and there were three edges straight to the keeper Shane Dowrich as Ben Stokes (43), Ollie Pope (12) and Jos Buttler (35) were sent packing by the number one all-rounder in Test cricket.&nbsp;

Dom Bess kept the scoreboard ticking with a handy 31 not-out but the Holder and Gabriel were too hot to handle for the English lower-order as the hosts were bundled out for 204. Holder with six, Gabriel with four, shared all the wickets among themselves.&nbsp;

<img alt="ENG vs WI 1st Test" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c780aae9-5634-4505-ae22-b6d8d13f986f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1UW3JK.jpg" />

For the West Indies, openers Kraigg Brathwaite and John Campbell saw off the initial spell by James Anderson and Jofra Archer before taking the field on a bright sunny day on Day 3. A superb 65 by Brathwaite laid the platform for the visitors despite Campbell (28) and Shai Hope (16) departing without scoring much. Shamarh Brooks (39) showed glimpses of his highly-rated talent but it was Roston Chase’s 47 off 142 which built the&nbsp;road for the West Indies win. Dowrich with his gritty 61 threw some confidence and a lead of over 100 runs.&nbsp;

It was a lacklustre performance by the English bowlers in the first innings. While Jimmy Anderson looked like a lone warrior, swinging the ball away or even bringing it back with a break of the wrist, Jofra Archer and Mark Wood with speeds of over 90 mph looked like a mere shadow of themselves. Their barrage of bouncers was firmly dealt by before Stokes took it upon himself to do the damage. The end result? Four wickets for the number two ranked Test all-rounder in the world. Credit to Dom Bess, who toiled hard in his 19 overs to pick up two crucial wickets of Hope and Blackwood. The West Indies ended up posting 318 runs on the board.&nbsp;

<img alt="ENG vs WI 1st Test" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2a8be025-6311-4e42-84ff-d52ff0a21cc2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1UY6ZC.jpg" />

With the sun out and a relatively drier and flatter track, Rory Burns and Dom Sibley stitched a 72-run opening stand before the former was sent packing Roston Chase, visitors’ only spin option. Sibley went on to score a half-century before falling prey to Gabriel. Joe Denly and Zak Crawley tried putting a partnership but the former was again subjected to a soft dismissal, falling for his own mishaps, again and again.&nbsp;

<img alt="ENG vs WI 1st Test" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4bfc65ec-6dec-4fa1-8893-a7f84545285a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1V03TP.jpg" />

Stokes came up with a counter-attacking mood and scored a quick-fire 46 off 79 but&nbsp;Alzarri Joseph, after going wicket-less in the first innings, found the bullseye by dismissing Stokes and Crawley. Gabriel came back to life again and wreaked havoc while sending the lower and lower-middle order back to pavilion. Another impressive performance by the veteran and a fifer to his name. England were bundled out for 313 as the West Indies were given a target of 200 runs.&nbsp;

<img alt="ENG vs WI 1st Test" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bda5b095-e796-4e14-b4d5-2a05210204a0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1V08O7.jpg" />

There was scrutiny towards Jofra Archer for being lazy in the first innings and many could sense he would come alive in the second innings, and that is what exactly happened. John Campbell was retired-hurt and Brathwaite was walking back to the hut in no time after the West Indies started their chase.

<img alt="ENG vs WI 1st Test" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3e155a85-85c6-42eb-961d-e56f9ddffbc3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1V22MS_0.jpg" />

Mark Wood too clocked up his intensity and got rid of Shai Hope as the visitors saw them reeling at 27-3. Brooks again fall victim to Archer’s class and bagged a five-ball duck.&nbsp;

<img alt="ENG vs WI 1st Test" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ab4dbf4e-31e6-421d-8c85-69bb1c8a6d58" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1V25AV_1.jpg" />

As England bowlers dominated the first 15 overs, everyone started to come at the edge of their seats anticipating a West Indies collapse. However, Chase and Blackwood had other plans. While Chase scored a gritty 37, Blackwood was the man of the hour for the West Indies as he scored 95. Dowrich chipped in with 20. Campbell came back to bat again and stitched winning partnership with skipper Holder to hand the West Indies an all-important win.

<img alt="ENG vs WI 1st Test" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="730f1743-dcb8-4323-ba6c-dfd35db954ae" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1V2520.jpg" />

A forgettable start for Stokes as a captain. And for Holder, he continues to cement his own legacy in the history books.&nbsp;

The first Test post-pandemic goes to the West Indies as visitors take a 1-0 in the series. Man of the match, Shannon Gabriel. 
&nbsp;

International cricket returned with a bang! Test cricket returned with its nerve-wracking sessions and battle between the willow and the red cherry. Before the first Test between England and the West Indies commenced at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton, there were whispers how it would pan out.

International cricket returned with a bang! Test cricket returned with its nerve-wracking sessions and battle between the willow and the red cherry. Before the first Test between England and the West Indies commenced at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton, there were whispers how it would pan out. Will players be fully up for it, will not playing cricket for 117 days take a toll on the players? And every question was thrown out of the window as both England and West Indies produced cricket of the highest quality upon the return of international cricket. The West Indies led by the ever-dependable Jason Holder clinched a fairly comfortable four-wicket win in Southampton while taking a 1-0 lead in the series. While the word comfortable may sound like a cake-walk, it wasn’t the case at all. The game felt like a pendulum as the dong moved to and fro between the two sides with each passing session. Day 1 started with a game of hide and seek with the rain gods as the world witnessed little action on the first day. After a delayed start, England’s Test skipper for the match, Ben Stokes opted to bat first under overseas condition, on a pitch which certainly had some sort of moisture due to persistent rain in the build-up to the match. The move to bat first raised a few eyebrows. The red ball, on which saliva can’t be used due to the ban imposed by the ICC to curb the spread of coronavirus, was handed over to Kemar Roach and Shannon Gabriel. But before the first ball of the match was bowled, all the players and staff took a knee in support for the Black Lives Matter movement. Ten balls into the game, Dom Sibley’s stumps were dislodged by a peach by Gabriel. The ball moved a bit but to some extent, it was a rusty judgement by the English opener. Rory Burns and Joe Denly took charge in the middle and saw off a splendid spell of bowling by Roach and Gabriel. However, it was Gabriel again who produced magic to send the ball through the gates of Denly, reminding the Englishman of his IPL debut for KKR. Burns was next to follow and it was Gabriel again who did the damage. Following the initial spell by Gabriel and Roach, it was time for ‘Captain West Indies’ to stand up and produce what he has been doing for the last few years. Even though Holder is not someone who would terrorise batsmen with his pace, he showed what damage testing line and length can do. Holder made the ball talk and there were three edges straight to the keeper Shane Dowrich as Ben Stokes (43), Ollie Pope (12) and Jos Buttler (35) were sent packing by the number one all-rounder in Test cricket. Dom Bess kept the scoreboard ticking with a handy 31 not-out but the Holder and Gabriel were too hot to handle for the English lower-order as the hosts were bundled out for 204. Holder with six, Gabriel with four, shared all the wickets among themselves. For the West Indies, openers Kraigg Brathwaite and John Campbell saw off the initial spell by James Anderson and Jofra Archer before taking the field on a bright sunny day on Day 3. A superb 65 by Brathwaite laid the platform for the visitors despite Campbell (28) and Shai Hope (16) departing without scoring much. Shamarh Brooks (39) showed glimpses of his highly-rated talent but it was Roston Chase’s 47 off 142 which built the road for the West Indies win. Dowrich with his gritty 61 threw some confidence and a lead of over 100 runs. It was a lacklustre performance by the English bowlers in the first innings. While Jimmy Anderson looked like a lone warrior, swinging the ball away or even bringing it back with a break of the wrist, Jofra Archer and Mark Wood with speeds of over 90 mph looked like a mere shadow of themselves. Their barrage of bouncers was firmly dealt by before Stokes took it upon himself to do the damage. The end result? Four wickets for the number two ranked Test all-rounder in the world. Credit to Dom Bess, who toiled hard in his 19 overs to pick up two crucial wickets of Hope and Blackwood. The West Indies ended up posting 318 runs on the board. With the sun out and a relatively drier and flatter track, Rory Burns and Dom Sibley stitched a 72-run opening stand before the former was sent packing Roston Chase, visitors’ only spin option. Sibley went on to score a half-century before falling prey to Gabriel. Joe Denly and Zak Crawley tried putting a partnership but the former was again subjected to a soft dismissal, falling for his own mishaps, again and again. Stokes came up with a counter-attacking mood and scored a quick-fire 46 off 79 but Alzarri Joseph, after going wicket-less in the first innings, found the bullseye by dismissing Stokes and Crawley. Gabriel came back to life again and wreaked havoc while sending the lower and lower-middle order back to pavilion. Another impressive performance by the veteran and a fifer to his name. England were bundled out for 313 as the West Indies were given a target of 200 runs. There was scrutiny towards Jofra Archer for being lazy in the first innings and many could sense he would come alive in the second innings, and that is what exactly happened. John Campbell was retired-hurt and Brathwaite was walking back to the hut in no time after the West Indies started their chase. Mark Wood too clocked up his intensity and got rid of Shai Hope as the visitors saw them reeling at 27-3. Brooks again fall victim to Archer’s class and bagged a five-ball duck. As England bowlers dominated the first 15 overs, everyone started to come at the edge of their seats anticipating a West Indies collapse. However, Chase and Blackwood had other plans. While Chase scored a gritty 37, Blackwood was the man of the hour for the West Indies as he scored 95. Dowrich chipped in with 20. Campbell came back to bat again and stitched winning partnership with skipper Holder to hand the West Indies an all-important win. A forgettable start for Stokes as a captain. And for Holder, he continues to cement his own legacy in the history books. The first Test post-pandemic goes to the West Indies as visitors take a 1-0 in the series. Man of the match, Shannon Gabriel.

England vs West Indies 1st Test: Blackwood, Gabriel steal show as visitors take 1-0 lead in series

Tottenham Hotspur defender Serge Aurier's younger brother Christopher Aurier&nbsp;was killed in a shooting in Toulouse, France on Monday, as per reports in what comes as a huge shock for the footballing world. As per reports, the gunman fled from the scene and investigation has started on the horrific incident that took place in the early hours of Monday morning.&nbsp;

The 26-year-old was injured in the abdomen when emergency services arrived on the scene at 5:00 am local time but succumbed to the injuries in hospital, the fire service said as per AFP.

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We are with you, <a href="https://twitter.com/Serge_aurier?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Serge_Aurier</a> 💙 <a href="https://t.co/jI0vHHqfy5">pic.twitter.com/jI0vHHqfy5</a>
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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>

The victim of the shooting incident, Christopher plays football in French fifth-division team Toulouse Rodeo while his brother is a renowned superstar who plays for Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur. Serge Aurier earlier used to play for Paris Saint-Germain before switching for the North London club.

Christopher came through the ranks at Lens like his elder brother Serge, an Ivorian international and former PSG full-back, but failed to break through at the highest level.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-win-appeal-at-cas-as-champions-league-ban-is-lifted-312955" hreflang="en">Manchester City win appeal at CAS as Champions League ban is lifted</a>

It is unclear whether Serge will travel to Toulouse or whether he will participate in the remaining Premier League matches for Tottenham Hotspur.

Tottenham Hotspur defender Serge Aurier's younger brother Christopher Aurier was killed in a shooting in Toulouse, France on Monday, as per reports in what comes as a huge shock for the footballing world.

Tottenham Hotspur defender Serge Aurier's younger brother Christopher Aurier was killed in a shooting in Toulouse, France on Monday, as per reports in what comes as a huge shock for the footballing world. As per reports, the gunman fled from the scene and investigation has started on the horrific incident that took place in the early hours of Monday morning. The 26-year-old was injured in the abdomen when emergency services arrived on the scene at 5:00 am local time but succumbed to the injuries in hospital, the fire service said as per AFP. We are with you, @Serge_Aurier 💙 pic.twitter.com/jI0vHHqfy5 — Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) July 13, 2020 × ALSO READ: Factbox - Manchester City's European ban overturned by CAS The victim of the shooting incident, Christopher plays football in French fifth-division team Toulouse Rodeo while his brother is a renowned superstar who plays for Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur. Serge Aurier earlier used to play for Paris Saint-Germain before switching for the North London club. Christopher came through the ranks at Lens like his elder brother Serge, an Ivorian international and former PSG full-back, but failed to break through at the highest level. ALSO READ: Manchester City win appeal at CAS as Champions League ban is lifted It is unclear whether Serge will travel to Toulouse or whether he will participate in the remaining Premier League matches for Tottenham Hotspur.

Tottenham Hotspur defender Serge Aurier's brother shot dead in Toulouse

Manchester City on Monday won their appeal at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in their case against UEFA relating to a two-year ban on participating in the UEFA Champions League. Man City are set to play in the Champions League next season.

Earlier, Man City were handed a two-year ban from participating in European competitions as the UEFA Club Financial Control Body (CFCB) found the Blues guilty of contravening UEFA's Club Licensing and Financial Fair Play (FFP) Regulations. The club had filed an appeal at the CAS and the verdict came out on Monday. UEFA had also ordered Man City to pay a fine of 30 million euros beside their two-year ban.&nbsp;

Manchester City, from day one, had pleaded guilty in the case which started from hacked e-mails obtained by Football Leaks and published by Der Spiegel. UEFA had started their investigation based on the allegations by 'certain publications' and found the club guilty.&nbsp;

However, the club will breathe a sigh of relief as they are now free to participate in the Europe's elite competition. However, Man City will have to pay a fine of 10 million euros&nbsp;for&nbsp;contravening&nbsp;Article 56 of the Club Licensing and Financial Fair Play Regulations.

Statement from the Man City: "Whilst Manchester City and its legal advisors are yet to review the full ruling by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), the Club welcomes the implications of today’s ruling as a validation of the Club’s position and the body of evidence that it was able to present. The Club wishes to thank the panel members for their diligence and the due process that they administered."

Statement from UEFA:&nbsp;"UEFA takes note of decision to reduce sanction imposed on Man City. Notes panel found that there was insufficient conclusive evidence to uphold all of CFCB’s conclusions in this specific case + many of alleged breaches were time-barred due to the 5 year time period.

"Over the last few years, Financial Fair Play has played a significant role in protecting clubs and helping them become financially sustainable and UEFA and ECA remain committed to its principles."

ALSO READ:&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" hreflang="en">England vs West Indies 1st Test: Blackwood, Gabriel steal show as visitors take 1-0 lead in series</a>

<h2>Full statement from CAS on Man City vs UEFA:</h2>

"The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has issued its decision in the arbitration procedure between Manchester City Football Club and the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA).

"The case concerns an appeal filed by Manchester City FC (MCFC) against the decision of the Adjudicatory Chamber of the UEFA Club Financial Control Body (CFCB) dated 14 February 2020 in which it was deemed to have contravened UEFA’s Club Licensing and Financial Fair Play Regulations and sanctioned with exclusion from participation in UEFA club competitions in the next two seasons and ordered to pay a fine of EUR 30 million.

"The Panel of arbitrators in charge of the matter, composed of Mr Rui Botica Santos (Portugal), President, Prof. Ulrich Haas (Germany) and Mr Andrew McDougall QC (France), conducted a hearing with the parties, their legal representatives, witnesses and experts on 8, 9 and 10 June 2020.

"Following the hearing, the CAS Panel deliberated and concluded that the decision issued on 
14 February 2020 by the Adjudicatory Chamber of the CFCB should be set aside and replaced by the 
following:

a.) MCFC has contravened Article 56 of the Club Licensing and Financial Fair Play Regulations. 
b.) MCFC shall pay a fine of EUR 10,000,000 to the UEFA, within 30 days as from the date of 
issuance of the arbitral award.

"The CAS award emphasized that most of the alleged breaches reported by the Adjudicatory Chamber of the CFCB were either not established or time-barred. As the charges with respect to any dishonest concealment of equity funding were clearly more significant violations than obstructing the CFCB’s investigations, it was not appropriate to impose a ban on participating in UEFA’s club competitions for MCFC’s failure to cooperate with the CFCB’s investigations alone.

"However, considering i) the financial resources of MCFC; ii) the importance of the cooperation of clubs in investigations conducted by the CFCB, because of its limited investigative means; and iii) MCFC’s disregard of such principle and its obstruction of the investigations, the CAS Panel found that a significant fine should be imposed on MCFC and considered it appropriate to reduce UEFA’s initial fine by 2/3, i.e. to the amount of EUR 10 million.

"The final award with reasons will be published on the CAS website in a few days."

Manchester City on Monday won their appeal at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in their case against UEFA relating to a two-year ban on participating in the UEFA Champions League.

Manchester City on Monday won their appeal at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in their case against UEFA relating to a two-year ban on participating in the UEFA Champions League. Man City are set to play in the Champions League next season. Earlier, Man City were handed a two-year ban from participating in European competitions as the UEFA Club Financial Control Body (CFCB) found the Blues guilty of contravening UEFA's Club Licensing and Financial Fair Play (FFP) Regulations. The club had filed an appeal at the CAS and the verdict came out on Monday. UEFA had also ordered Man City to pay a fine of 30 million euros beside their two-year ban. Manchester City, from day one, had pleaded guilty in the case which started from hacked e-mails obtained by Football Leaks and published by Der Spiegel. UEFA had started their investigation based on the allegations by 'certain publications' and found the club guilty. However, the club will breathe a sigh of relief as they are now free to participate in the Europe's elite competition. However, Man City will have to pay a fine of 10 million euros for contravening Article 56 of the Club Licensing and Financial Fair Play Regulations. Statement from the Man City: "Whilst Manchester City and its legal advisors are yet to review the full ruling by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), the Club welcomes the implications of today’s ruling as a validation of the Club’s position and the body of evidence that it was able to present. The Club wishes to thank the panel members for their diligence and the due process that they administered." Statement from UEFA: "UEFA takes note of decision to reduce sanction imposed on Man City. Notes panel found that there was insufficient conclusive evidence to uphold all of CFCB’s conclusions in this specific case + many of alleged breaches were time-barred due to the 5 year time period. "Over the last few years, Financial Fair Play has played a significant role in protecting clubs and helping them become financially sustainable and UEFA and ECA remain committed to its principles." ALSO READ: England vs West Indies 1st Test: Blackwood, Gabriel steal show as visitors take 1-0 lead in series Full statement from CAS on Man City vs UEFA: "The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has issued its decision in the arbitration procedure between Manchester City Football Club and the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA). "The case concerns an appeal filed by Manchester City FC (MCFC) against the decision of the Adjudicatory Chamber of the UEFA Club Financial Control Body (CFCB) dated 14 February 2020 in which it was deemed to have contravened UEFA’s Club Licensing and Financial Fair Play Regulations and sanctioned with exclusion from participation in UEFA club competitions in the next two seasons and ordered to pay a fine of EUR 30 million. "The Panel of arbitrators in charge of the matter, composed of Mr Rui Botica Santos (Portugal), President, Prof. Ulrich Haas (Germany) and Mr Andrew McDougall QC (France), conducted a hearing with the parties, their legal representatives, witnesses and experts on 8, 9 and 10 June 2020. "Following the hearing, the CAS Panel deliberated and concluded that the decision issued on 14 February 2020 by the Adjudicatory Chamber of the CFCB should be set aside and replaced by the following: a.) MCFC has contravened Article 56 of the Club Licensing and Financial Fair Play Regulations. b.) MCFC shall pay a fine of EUR 10,000,000 to the UEFA, within 30 days as from the date of issuance of the arbitral award. "The CAS award emphasized that most of the alleged breaches reported by the Adjudicatory Chamber of the CFCB were either not established or time-barred. As the charges with respect to any dishonest concealment of equity funding were clearly more significant violations than obstructing the CFCB’s investigations, it was not appropriate to impose a ban on participating in UEFA’s club competitions for MCFC’s failure to cooperate with the CFCB’s investigations alone. "However, considering i) the financial resources of MCFC; ii) the importance of the cooperation of clubs in investigations conducted by the CFCB, because of its limited investigative means; and iii) MCFC’s disregard of such principle and its obstruction of the investigations, the CAS Panel found that a significant fine should be imposed on MCFC and considered it appropriate to reduce UEFA’s initial fine by 2/3, i.e. to the amount of EUR 10 million. "The final award with reasons will be published on the CAS website in a few days."

Manchester City win appeal at CAS as Champions League ban is lifted

Factbox on Premier League club Manchester City’s two-year UEFA ban from European soccer which was was overturned by the Court of Arbitration of Sport (CAS) on Monday.

* In February, Manchester City were banned from European competition for the next two seasons and fined 30 million euros ($33.95 million) by European Soccer’s governing body UEFA after an investigation into alleged breaches of its Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules.

* FFP rules, introduced in 2011, are designed to prevent clubs receiving unlimited funds through inflated sponsorship deals with organisations related to owners.

Clubs that breach rules can be barred from European competition but negotiated settlements are more common.

* UEFA opened an investigation into City in March 2019 after the publication of ‘Football Leaks’ documents led to allegations that the club’s Abu Dhabi owners inflated sponsorship agreements to comply with the FFP requirements.

* The leaked documents included club emails which referred to money being “routed” through sponsors. Reuters was unable to verify if such payments were made.

* As well as questioning the nature of the documents, City were unhappy at the way in which UEFA’s Club Financial Control Body (CFCB) conducted the investigation.

* The CFCB said when City were banned that the club broke rules by “overstating sponsorship revenue in its accounts and in the break-even information submitted to UEFA between 2012 and 2016”.

It added the club had “failed to cooperate in the investigation”.

* City denied any wrongdoing, adding they had not received a fair hearing and appealed to sport’s highest court.

* CAS said on Monday after overturning the ban that City would be fined 10 million euros for failing to cooperate with UEFA.

($1 = 0.8835 euros)

Factbox on Premier League club Manchester City’s two-year UEFA ban from European soccer which was was overturned by the Court of Arbitration of Sport (CAS) on Monday.

Factbox on Premier League club Manchester City’s two-year UEFA ban from European soccer which was was overturned by the Court of Arbitration of Sport (CAS) on Monday. * In February, Manchester City were banned from European competition for the next two seasons and fined 30 million euros ($33.95 million) by European Soccer’s governing body UEFA after an investigation into alleged breaches of its Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules. * FFP rules, introduced in 2011, are designed to prevent clubs receiving unlimited funds through inflated sponsorship deals with organisations related to owners. Clubs that breach rules can be barred from European competition but negotiated settlements are more common. * UEFA opened an investigation into City in March 2019 after the publication of ‘Football Leaks’ documents led to allegations that the club’s Abu Dhabi owners inflated sponsorship agreements to comply with the FFP requirements. * The leaked documents included club emails which referred to money being “routed” through sponsors. Reuters was unable to verify if such payments were made. * As well as questioning the nature of the documents, City were unhappy at the way in which UEFA’s Club Financial Control Body (CFCB) conducted the investigation. * The CFCB said when City were banned that the club broke rules by “overstating sponsorship revenue in its accounts and in the break-even information submitted to UEFA between 2012 and 2016”. It added the club had “failed to cooperate in the investigation”. * City denied any wrongdoing, adding they had not received a fair hearing and appealed to sport’s highest court. * CAS said on Monday after overturning the ban that City would be fined 10 million euros for failing to cooperate with UEFA. ($1 = 0.8835 euros)

Factbox - Manchester City's European ban overturned by CAS

International cricket returned from lockdown in style as the West Indies beat England by four wickets in the first Test at Southampton.

AFP Sport looks at five key points from a match that took place against the backdrop of the coronavirus pandemic.

<h2>Holder heroics</h2>

West Indies captain Jason Holder led from the front by taking a Test-best 6-42 in England's lowly first-innings 204 and the world's top-ranked all-rounder twice dismissed home counterpart Ben Stokes in this match as well.

He also showed plenty of tactical skill in the way he deployed his bowlers and had Stokes caught by the finer of two gully fielders he had cleverly deployed for the England talisman to spark a collapse that saw the hosts lose five wickets for 30 runs on Saturday.

<h2>Buttler's bad service</h2>

England wicketkeeper Jos Buttler's run of low scores in Test cricket continued with innings of 35 and nine at Southampton.

He was recalled to the Test side in one of Ed Smith's first acts as national selector in the hope he could transfer his one-day batting form into the five-day game.

But Buttler is now averaging a mediocre 21.38 from his last 11 Tests and the World Cup-winner also dropped Jermaine Blackwood on 20 before the West Indies batsman made a match-clinching 95 on Sunday.

England have Ben Foakes in their squad, with the Surrey wicketkeeper -- arguably a better gloveman than Buttler -- boasting a Test batting average of 41.30.&nbsp;

Foakes has also made one Test hundred in five matches compared to Buttler's one in 42.

<h2>Denly debate</h2>

The 33-year-old is in the England side as a specialist batsman but his dismissal for 29 on the fourth day means he has gone eight Test innings without reaching 40.

One of either Denly or Zak Crawley, who made 76 on Saturday, is set to make way when captain Joe Root returns for the second Test.

And it increasingly looks like Denly will be dropped with his innings on Saturday, which ended when he tamely chipped off-spinner Roston Chase to short midwicket, another example of an infuriating habit of throwing his wicket away after a sound start.&nbsp;

<h2>No crowds but plenty of passion</h2>

Spectators are barred from this three-match series as a health measure to combat COVID-19.

That had raised fears players might not be able to replicate their usual levels of intensity &nbsp;but there was no lack of effort or skill, even though England stand-in skipper Ben Stokes admitted the atmosphere was "strange". &nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2>Umpires need to get their eye in</h2>

This was an awkward match for English officials Richard Illingworth and Richard Kettleborough after the International Cricket Council relaxed rules on home umpires standing in Tests because of virus restrictions.

At one stage the pair saw five successive decisions overturned on review in favour of the West Indies.

The ICC have given teams an additional review each innings of this series to compensate for the lack of neutral officials and this Test was a reminder that umpires, just as much as players, need match time before entering the international arena.

International cricket returned from lockdown in style as the West Indies beat England by four wickets in the first Test at Southampton. AFP Sport looks at five key points from a match that took place against the backdrop of the coronavirus pandemic.

International cricket returned from lockdown in style as the West Indies beat England by four wickets in the first Test at Southampton. AFP Sport looks at five key points from a match that took place against the backdrop of the coronavirus pandemic. Holder heroics West Indies captain Jason Holder led from the front by taking a Test-best 6-42 in England's lowly first-innings 204 and the world's top-ranked all-rounder twice dismissed home counterpart Ben Stokes in this match as well. He also showed plenty of tactical skill in the way he deployed his bowlers and had Stokes caught by the finer of two gully fielders he had cleverly deployed for the England talisman to spark a collapse that saw the hosts lose five wickets for 30 runs on Saturday. Buttler's bad service England wicketkeeper Jos Buttler's run of low scores in Test cricket continued with innings of 35 and nine at Southampton. He was recalled to the Test side in one of Ed Smith's first acts as national selector in the hope he could transfer his one-day batting form into the five-day game. But Buttler is now averaging a mediocre 21.38 from his last 11 Tests and the World Cup-winner also dropped Jermaine Blackwood on 20 before the West Indies batsman made a match-clinching 95 on Sunday. England have Ben Foakes in their squad, with the Surrey wicketkeeper -- arguably a better gloveman than Buttler -- boasting a Test batting average of 41.30. Foakes has also made one Test hundred in five matches compared to Buttler's one in 42. Denly debate The 33-year-old is in the England side as a specialist batsman but his dismissal for 29 on the fourth day means he has gone eight Test innings without reaching 40. One of either Denly or Zak Crawley, who made 76 on Saturday, is set to make way when captain Joe Root returns for the second Test. And it increasingly looks like Denly will be dropped with his innings on Saturday, which ended when he tamely chipped off-spinner Roston Chase to short midwicket, another example of an infuriating habit of throwing his wicket away after a sound start. No crowds but plenty of passion Spectators are barred from this three-match series as a health measure to combat COVID-19. That had raised fears players might not be able to replicate their usual levels of intensity but there was no lack of effort or skill, even though England stand-in skipper Ben Stokes admitted the atmosphere was "strange". Umpires need to get their eye in This was an awkward match for English officials Richard Illingworth and Richard Kettleborough after the International Cricket Council relaxed rules on home umpires standing in Tests because of virus restrictions. At one stage the pair saw five successive decisions overturned on review in favour of the West Indies. The ICC have given teams an additional review each innings of this series to compensate for the lack of neutral officials and this Test was a reminder that umpires, just as much as players, need match time before entering the international arena.

England vs West Indies: Five things we learned from the first Test

Batting great Sachin Tendulkar has renewed demands for cricket rules to give greater weight to TV playbacks over umpires in making LBW decisions.

Tendulkar, a long-standing critic of the decision review system (DRS), returned to the fray after multiple LBW calls in the West Indies' victory over England in the first Test.

If a ball-tracking playback shows that less than 50 percent of a ball would hit the stumps then the umpire has the discretion to reject a leg-before-wicket appeal.

If an umpire rules a batsman not out and the fielding side calls for a review, 50 per cent of the ball must be hitting the stumps for the third umpire to overturn the on-field call.

Tendulkar feels this is unfair and wants the International Cricket Council to rethink the system.

"One thing I don't agree with, with the ICC, is the DRS they've been using for quite some time," Tendulkar said in an online conversation with West Indies legend Brian Lara.

The former India captain said the playback should trump the umpire no matter how much of the ball would hit the wickets.

"The only reason they (the batsman or the bowler) have gone upstairs is because they are unhappy with the on-field decision," said Tendulkar.

"So when the decision goes to the third umpire, let the technology take over; just like in tennis -- it's either in or out, there's nothing in between."

Former India off-spinner Harbhajan Singh backed Tendulkar's position, saying&nbsp;on Twitter it was "1,000 percent correct".

India was the last Test nation to embrace DRS, in 2016. It was rumoured that Tendulkar had led opposition to the technology until his retirement in 2013.

Batting great Sachin Tendulkar has renewed demands for cricket rules to give greater weight to TV playbacks over umpires in making LBW decisions. Tendulkar, a long-standing critic of the decision review system (DRS), returned to the fray after multiple LBW calls in the West Indies' victory over England in the first Test.

Batting great Sachin Tendulkar has renewed demands for cricket rules to give greater weight to TV playbacks over umpires in making LBW decisions. Tendulkar, a long-standing critic of the decision review system (DRS), returned to the fray after multiple LBW calls in the West Indies' victory over England in the first Test. If a ball-tracking playback shows that less than 50 percent of a ball would hit the stumps then the umpire has the discretion to reject a leg-before-wicket appeal. If an umpire rules a batsman not out and the fielding side calls for a review, 50 per cent of the ball must be hitting the stumps for the third umpire to overturn the on-field call. Tendulkar feels this is unfair and wants the International Cricket Council to rethink the system. "One thing I don't agree with, with the ICC, is the DRS they've been using for quite some time," Tendulkar said in an online conversation with West Indies legend Brian Lara. The former India captain said the playback should trump the umpire no matter how much of the ball would hit the wickets. "The only reason they (the batsman or the bowler) have gone upstairs is because they are unhappy with the on-field decision," said Tendulkar. "So when the decision goes to the third umpire, let the technology take over; just like in tennis -- it's either in or out, there's nothing in between." Former India off-spinner Harbhajan Singh backed Tendulkar's position, saying on Twitter it was "1,000 percent correct". India was the last Test nation to embrace DRS, in 2016. It was rumoured that Tendulkar had led opposition to the technology until his retirement in 2013.

Tendulkar slams loopholes in umpire referral system

Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton, the sport’s only Black driver, raised a clenched fist on the podium on Sunday after taking his first victory of the season at Austria’s Red Bull Ring.

The Briton, a six-times world champion who is now six wins short of equalling Ferrari great Michael Schumacher’s all-time record of 91, has been outspoken in support of anti-racism campaigners and for equal opportunities.

The Mercedes driver had earlier taken a knee on the starting grid with some of the other drivers while wearing a T-shirt with ‘Black Lives Matter’ on the front. The world television feed quickly cut away to a Red Bull stunt parachutist, however.

The race itself was run without spectators due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Hamilton, 35, also has Black Lives Matter written on his race helmet.

“We stand together and fight,” he said after posting on Instagram a picture of himself making the gesture on the Spielberg podium after collecting the 85th winner’s trophy of his F1 career.

“The team today took the knee which was just amazing to see that together we can learn, be open minded and conscious of what’s going on in the world.”

Hamilton had also clenched a fist while standing on his racing car, this season painted black rather than the usual silver.

Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton, the sport’s only Black driver, raised a clenched fist on the podium on Sunday after taking his first victory of the season at Austria’s Red Bull Ring.

Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton, the sport’s only Black driver, raised a clenched fist on the podium on Sunday after taking his first victory of the season at Austria’s Red Bull Ring. The Briton, a six-times world champion who is now six wins short of equalling Ferrari great Michael Schumacher’s all-time record of 91, has been outspoken in support of anti-racism campaigners and for equal opportunities. The Mercedes driver had earlier taken a knee on the starting grid with some of the other drivers while wearing a T-shirt with ‘Black Lives Matter’ on the front. The world television feed quickly cut away to a Red Bull stunt parachutist, however. The race itself was run without spectators due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Hamilton, 35, also has Black Lives Matter written on his race helmet. “We stand together and fight,” he said after posting on Instagram a picture of himself making the gesture on the Spielberg podium after collecting the 85th winner’s trophy of his F1 career. “The team today took the knee which was just amazing to see that together we can learn, be open minded and conscious of what’s going on in the world.” Hamilton had also clenched a fist while standing on his racing car, this season painted black rather than the usual silver.

Lewis Hamilton raises a fist after his first win of the season

Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike, often floated as a future Japanese premier, said on Monday the Olympics must go ahead next year as a symbol of world unity in overcoming the novel coronavirus, even as her city grapples with stubborn spikes in cases.

Japan has not seen an explosive coronavirus outbreak as suffered in some other places but a recent increase in cases in Tokyo, which accounts for more than a third of its more than 20,000 total, has fanned worries about a second wave of infections.

The 2020 Olympics were scheduled to start this month but were postponed because of the coronavirus. Koike has pledged to win public support for the Games, although a media survey showed a majority think they should be cancelled or postponed again.

“I want to host them as a symbol of the world coming together to overcome this tough situation and of strengthened bonds among humankind,” Koike told Reuters in an online interview.

She declined to specify a deadline for deciding if the Games could go ahead.

A media-savvy former television announcer who speaks English and Arabic, Koike is to many a paradox: a global thinker with a nationalist tinge; a political outsider who advanced with help from old-boy mentors, and a risk-taker who shied away from the big gamble of running for parliament in 2017 as head of her upstart “Party of Hope”.

The party floundered after Prime Minister Shinzo Abe called a snap election.

Instead, Koike stayed on as Tokyo governor and has won plaudits for her straight-talking handling of the COVID-19 outbreak in contrast to what critics called Abe’s clumsy response.

She was re-elected by a landslide last week, reigniting talk she has a shot at becoming Japan’s first woman prime minister.

On Monday, she sought to brush such speculation aside.

“I’m happy that people have hopes for me but I received support for a second term as governor,” she said.

“I want to protect the lives and health of the people of Tokyo by addressing the immediate issue of policies for the coronavirus. That is my greatest mission.”

<h2>POLITICAL MACHINE?</h2>

Tokyo’s jump in COVID-19 cases comes as Abe’s government prepares to launch a campaign to promote domestic tourism, but that has raised concern about spreading the virus outside the capital.

Koike said it was important both to contain the virus and revive the slumping economy.

“At present, a tough situation continues but ... by taking a proper response in Tokyo, I want to advance both the prevention of infections and social and economic activity,” she said.

Tokyo accounts for about 20% of Japan’s economy.

Koike, who clashed with Abe’s administration over the timing of a state of emergency, and over which businesses to target for shutdowns, said she wanted greater clarity on local governments’ authority during the crisis.

A veteran member of parliament before defying Abe’s Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) to make her 2016 bid for governor, Koike also wants to make the metropolis a global financial centre by luring foreign talent.

Still, speculation persists that she could yet aim for Japan’s top job.

She has already broken several glass ceilings: first female governor of Tokyo, Japan’s first female defence minister and the first woman to run for LDP president.

But creating a new political machine to vault her to the top would be tough, political analysts said.

“Does she have what it takes to be prime minister? Absolutely. But she doesn’t have the political machine that can make it happen,” said a source who has advised Koike for years.

A return to the LDP fold would also face obstacles, given that mutual antagonism runs deep.

Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike, often floated as a future Japanese premier, said on Monday the Olympics must go ahead next year as a symbol of world unity in overcoming the novel coronavirus, even as her city grapples with stubborn spikes in cases.

Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike, often floated as a future Japanese premier, said on Monday the Olympics must go ahead next year as a symbol of world unity in overcoming the novel coronavirus, even as her city grapples with stubborn spikes in cases. Japan has not seen an explosive coronavirus outbreak as suffered in some other places but a recent increase in cases in Tokyo, which accounts for more than a third of its more than 20,000 total, has fanned worries about a second wave of infections. The 2020 Olympics were scheduled to start this month but were postponed because of the coronavirus. Koike has pledged to win public support for the Games, although a media survey showed a majority think they should be cancelled or postponed again. “I want to host them as a symbol of the world coming together to overcome this tough situation and of strengthened bonds among humankind,” Koike told Reuters in an online interview. She declined to specify a deadline for deciding if the Games could go ahead. A media-savvy former television announcer who speaks English and Arabic, Koike is to many a paradox: a global thinker with a nationalist tinge; a political outsider who advanced with help from old-boy mentors, and a risk-taker who shied away from the big gamble of running for parliament in 2017 as head of her upstart “Party of Hope”. The party floundered after Prime Minister Shinzo Abe called a snap election. Instead, Koike stayed on as Tokyo governor and has won plaudits for her straight-talking handling of the COVID-19 outbreak in contrast to what critics called Abe’s clumsy response. She was re-elected by a landslide last week, reigniting talk she has a shot at becoming Japan’s first woman prime minister. On Monday, she sought to brush such speculation aside. “I’m happy that people have hopes for me but I received support for a second term as governor,” she said. “I want to protect the lives and health of the people of Tokyo by addressing the immediate issue of policies for the coronavirus. That is my greatest mission.” POLITICAL MACHINE? Tokyo’s jump in COVID-19 cases comes as Abe’s government prepares to launch a campaign to promote domestic tourism, but that has raised concern about spreading the virus outside the capital. Koike said it was important both to contain the virus and revive the slumping economy. “At present, a tough situation continues but ... by taking a proper response in Tokyo, I want to advance both the prevention of infections and social and economic activity,” she said. Tokyo accounts for about 20% of Japan’s economy. Koike, who clashed with Abe’s administration over the timing of a state of emergency, and over which businesses to target for shutdowns, said she wanted greater clarity on local governments’ authority during the crisis. A veteran member of parliament before defying Abe’s Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) to make her 2016 bid for governor, Koike also wants to make the metropolis a global financial centre by luring foreign talent. Still, speculation persists that she could yet aim for Japan’s top job. She has already broken several glass ceilings: first female governor of Tokyo, Japan’s first female defence minister and the first woman to run for LDP president. But creating a new political machine to vault her to the top would be tough, political analysts said. “Does she have what it takes to be prime minister? Absolutely. But she doesn’t have the political machine that can make it happen,” said a source who has advised Koike for years. A return to the LDP fold would also face obstacles, given that mutual antagonism runs deep.

Olympics must go ahead next year as symbol of overcoming COVID-19, Tokyo governor says

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-Amitabh-Bachchan-tests-positive-for-coronavirus-admitted-to-hospital-312610">Amitabh Bachchan has tested positive for coronavirus</a> and has been admitted to Mumbai’s Nanavati hospital. Big B took to social media platform Twitter to confirm the news and gave a health update to his fans and followers.&nbsp;

Amitabh said that after being tested positive for COVID-19, he has been shifted to hospital. He further said that his family and staff working have undergone tests while the results are awaited. The Bollywood superstar further requested everyone who have been in close proximity to him to get themselves tested for the dreaded virus.&nbsp;

Amitabh tweeted: “I have tested CoviD positive .. shifted to Hospital .. hospital informing authorities .. family and staff undergone tests , results awaited ..All that have been in close proximity to me in the last 10 days are requested to please get themselves tested!”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-Amitabh-Bachchan-tests-positive-for-coronavirus-admitted-to-hospital-312610" hreflang="en">Amitabh Bachchan tests positive for coronavirus, admitted to hospital</a>

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T 3590 -I have tested CoviD positive .. shifted to Hospital .. hospital informing authorities .. family and staff undergone tests , results awaited .. 
All that have been in close proximity to me in the last 10 days are requested to please get themselves tested !
— Amitabh Bachchan (@SrBachchan) <a href="https://twitter.com/SrBachchan/status/1282002456063295490?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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While social media went into a sudden shock, wishes started to follow for the beloved actor. Not only people from the film industry, but sportspersons and politicians also took to the social media platform to wish him a speedy recovery. Such is the love for Big B that former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar also prayed for his good health. From Sachin Tendulkar to&nbsp;Suresh Raina, sportspersons took to Twitter to wish him good health and quick recovery.&nbsp;

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Take care Amit ji. 
 
Praying for your good health and quick recovery. 🙏🏼 <a href="https://t.co/KRwPQ9RQZT">https://t.co/KRwPQ9RQZT</a>
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1282014511298342912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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Get well soon Sir 🕉🙏🙏
— Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRaina/status/1282003425039982592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Get well soon Amit ji. Prayers for a speedy recovery from all your fans across the border.
— Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) <a href="https://twitter.com/shoaib100mph/status/1282009575617699840?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Get well soon, sir. Thoughts, prayers and good wishes.
— Aakash Chopra (@cricketaakash) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketaakash/status/1282006119486038016?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Get well soon sir 🙏
— R P Singh रुद्र प्रताप सिंह (@rpsingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/rpsingh/status/1282007272357388289?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Get well soon sir! Praying for your speedy recovery. 🙏
— Washington Sundar (@Sundarwashi5) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sundarwashi5/status/1282012199314059264?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

&nbsp; 
Big B was last seen in the movie Gulabo Sitabo also starring Ayushamann Khurrana

Amitabh Bachchan has tested positive for coronavirus and has been admitted to Mumbai’s Nanavati hospital. Big B took to social media platform Twitter to confirm the news and gave a health update to his fans and followers.

Amitabh Bachchan has tested positive for coronavirus and has been admitted to Mumbai’s Nanavati hospital. Big B took to social media platform Twitter to confirm the news and gave a health update to his fans and followers. Amitabh said that after being tested positive for COVID-19, he has been shifted to hospital. He further said that his family and staff working have undergone tests while the results are awaited. The Bollywood superstar further requested everyone who have been in close proximity to him to get themselves tested for the dreaded virus. Amitabh tweeted: “I have tested CoviD positive .. shifted to Hospital .. hospital informing authorities .. family and staff undergone tests , results awaited ..All that have been in close proximity to me in the last 10 days are requested to please get themselves tested!” ALSO READ: Amitabh Bachchan tests positive for coronavirus, admitted to hospital T 3590 -I have tested CoviD positive .. shifted to Hospital .. hospital informing authorities .. family and staff undergone tests , results awaited .. All that have been in close proximity to me in the last 10 days are requested to please get themselves tested ! — Amitabh Bachchan (@SrBachchan) July 11, 2020 × While social media went into a sudden shock, wishes started to follow for the beloved actor. Not only people from the film industry, but sportspersons and politicians also took to the social media platform to wish him a speedy recovery. Such is the love for Big B that former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar also prayed for his good health. From Sachin Tendulkar to Suresh Raina, sportspersons took to Twitter to wish him good health and quick recovery. Take care Amit ji. Praying for your good health and quick recovery. 🙏🏼 https://t.co/KRwPQ9RQZT — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) July 11, 2020 × Get well soon Sir 🕉🙏🙏 — Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) July 11, 2020 × Get well soon Amit ji. Prayers for a speedy recovery from all your fans across the border. — Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) July 11, 2020 × Get well soon, sir. Thoughts, prayers and good wishes. — Aakash Chopra (@cricketaakash) July 11, 2020 × Get well soon sir 🙏 — R P Singh रुद्र प्रताप सिंह (@rpsingh) July 11, 2020 × Get well soon sir! Praying for your speedy recovery. 🙏 — Washington Sundar (@Sundarwashi5) July 11, 2020 × Big B was last seen in the movie Gulabo Sitabo also starring Ayushamann Khurrana

From Tendulkar to Raina, sports fraternity wishes Amitabh Bachchan speedy recovery as Big B tests positive for COVID-19

Liverpool were handed a setback by Burnley as the newly-crowned <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> champions ended up drawing 1-1 while Norwich were&nbsp;relegated after Michail Antonio fired four goals to provide West Ham a thumping win on Saturday.

Liverpool are chasing the 100 points record set by Manchester City in 2018 but the champions were held by Burnley for the first time this season at the Anfield.

The Reds now have 93 points to their name and need to win all their remaining three matches against Arsenal, Chelsea and Newcastle United to break City’s record. The Jurgen Klopp’s men would tie the record if they win two and draw one.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-contacts-20-clubs-over-need-for-distancing-during-matches-312541" hreflang="en">Premier League contacts 20 clubs over need for distancing during matches</a>

"For moments it was Liverpool against (Nick) Pope. We did everything right and he made saves but we should have scored more, that's on us," Klopp said.

"We didn't close the game and they took their moment. We were angry with the referee but we have to criticise ourselves first for not finishing the game.

"The team do it right 99 per cent of the time but I will never stop criticising them."

Liverpool took the lead with Andrew Robertson’s powerful header but the visitors equalized in the 69th minute. 
Whereas at the Carrow Road, seventh successive defeat for Norwich meant they have now been relegated to Championship.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-skipper-henderson-ruled-out-for-season-says-klopp-312360" hreflang="en">Liverpool skipper Henderson ruled out for season, says Klopp</a>

The Canaries have set an unwanted record with a fifth Premier League relegation after going down on four previous occasions in 1995, 2005, 2014 and 2016.

"We wanted to beat the odds again but when the dust settles the outcome is more or less what was expected. It doesn't take anything away from the fact that we are disappointed," Farke said.

"From the first day after promotion our chances to survive were perhaps 5 percent so in 19 out of 20 cases you will go down. If you have luck and no injuries then you have a chance.

"When we are 100 percent we are competitive but when it's 96 or 97 percent then it sometimes looks like men against boys. That's what I expected."

West Ham's second win in four games was a huge lift to their hopes of staying up.

Liverpool were handed a setback by Burnley as the newly-crowned Premier League champions ended up drawing 1-1 while Norwich were relegated after Michail Antonio fired four goals to provide West Ham a thumping win on Saturday.

Liverpool were handed a setback by Burnley as the newly-crowned Premier League champions ended up drawing 1-1 while Norwich were relegated after Michail Antonio fired four goals to provide West Ham a thumping win on Saturday. Liverpool are chasing the 100 points record set by Manchester City in 2018 but the champions were held by Burnley for the first time this season at the Anfield. The Reds now have 93 points to their name and need to win all their remaining three matches against Arsenal, Chelsea and Newcastle United to break City’s record. The Jurgen Klopp’s men would tie the record if they win two and draw one. ALSO READ: Premier League contacts 20 clubs over need for distancing during matches "For moments it was Liverpool against (Nick) Pope. We did everything right and he made saves but we should have scored more, that's on us," Klopp said. "We didn't close the game and they took their moment. We were angry with the referee but we have to criticise ourselves first for not finishing the game. "The team do it right 99 per cent of the time but I will never stop criticising them." Liverpool took the lead with Andrew Robertson’s powerful header but the visitors equalized in the 69th minute. Whereas at the Carrow Road, seventh successive defeat for Norwich meant they have now been relegated to Championship. ALSO READ: Liverpool skipper Henderson ruled out for season, says Klopp The Canaries have set an unwanted record with a fifth Premier League relegation after going down on four previous occasions in 1995, 2005, 2014 and 2016. "We wanted to beat the odds again but when the dust settles the outcome is more or less what was expected. It doesn't take anything away from the fact that we are disappointed," Farke said. "From the first day after promotion our chances to survive were perhaps 5 percent so in 19 out of 20 cases you will go down. If you have luck and no injuries then you have a chance. "When we are 100 percent we are competitive but when it's 96 or 97 percent then it sometimes looks like men against boys. That's what I expected." West Ham's second win in four games was a huge lift to their hopes of staying up.

Premier League: Liverpool held at Anfield by Burnley, Norwich relegated

International cricket has come back to life with the three-match Test series between England and the West Indies. The cricket-starved fans who were direly waiting to witness some live action from the past three months have also seen some light after a tough phase due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

International cricket has come back to life with the three-match Test series between England and the West Indies. The cricket-starved fans who were direly waiting to witness some live action from the past three months have also seen some light after a tough phase due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As cricket resumed with a new look, fans inside the stadiums were a major missing as empty seats glared at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton. England became the first country to host international cricket after the prolonged break but The Barmy Army, who has become synonymous to England cricket over the years, was nowhere to be seen filling the seats and creating iconic atmosphere with their chants and flags, given the restrictions and health guidelines in place. As The Barmy Army has been emphasizing on their social media platforms that they may not be there in person but they are there in spirit while continuing to support the hosts from whatever available options on social media. Over their 25-year-long rich history, The Barmy Army has witnessed some unforgettable moments. The group has faced everything. Be it Ashes wins, World Cup wins, many tough defeats, The Barmy Army has witnessed it all. However, one thing they continue to do, since the Ashes 1994-95, is get back behind the team whenever they take the field to represent England. And that sums up their passion for the game and their love for the England cricket team. While no artificial sound can replace the atmosphere that The Barmy Army creates, the new rules are such that matches have to be played behind closed doors, adhering to the government guidelines due to the pandemic. In an exclusive interview with WION, Chris Millard – Managing Director for The Barmy Army and Adam Cannings talked about how the fan group is coping with matches being played behind closed doors, the future for cricket fans, their iconic chants, how the group has grown in stature over the years, meeting Virat Kohli for The Barmy Army awards, and much more. × Here are the excerpts: Subhayan Chakraborty: Welcome to WION, Chris and Adam. How are you guys doing? Chris Millard: We are good! We are alright. We are sat at home, working from home, not being able be in the ground and watching cricket but we are enjoying as much as we can. It’s great that we are seeing some Test cricket again and be good as we can be. SC: International cricket has resumed from England but no supporters are allowed inside the stadiums. It must be a strange feeling for you all…So how are you all coping with it? Adam Canning: It is a strange feeling. Ideally, we would at the ground, getting behind the lads. We had sold a lot of tickets this summer and there was a lot of excitement around English cricket after a great summer last year. England are world champions, did well in South Africa, and there is a lot of excitement around. So very strange situation returning into Test cricket this summer with no fans in the ground. But we are doing all we can, to keep fans engaged on our digital channels across social media. We are in touch with the ECB and Sky to make sure there is something from the crowd in the action. SC: Chris, there have been talks about the scattered crowd being allowed in the near future. Will you be able to produce the sort of atmosphere that The Barmy Army is famous for? What’s the feeling in the camp? Chris Millard: It is still very early stages in the UK. We are making sure that safety is the priority. Everyone has worked so hard at the ECB to get the game on and I think we are still a few months away from getting fans back inside the stadiums, at least in the UK, might be different elsewhere. We are more concerned for the everyone’s safety for now and when the time is right for us to get back into the stadium then we will look into whether or not we can generate atmosphere. Maybe two-three seats apart from each other and I am sure that won’t be a problem. We can make atmosphere wherever we go whether it is two people or two thousand people, we are the experts of creating atmosphere and very knowledgeable about how that might go even if there are restrictions in place but safety first at this minute. We are nowhere looking at being back in the stadium for the foreseeable future I think. SC: Cricket has come back with a host of changes in the rules. Be it ban on the usage of saliva or COVID substitutions but still the fans are being missed. Artificial crowd sound is being pumped in but it can never replicate the live atmosphere. So what’s your take on the artificial noise? Adam Canning: Obviously it is not the same without the fans and supporters. Even if you go into our social media platforms, we get comments from so many fans, not just English fans but Indians, Pakistanis saying that watching cricket is not the same without being able to listen to The Barmy Army chants in the background. Our guys have been following the team all around the world and they are missing being there. And we have listened to the players in interviews that we have done in the summer in our podcasts and they have admitted that The Barmy Army pushes their performance by 5 to 10 per cent. So don’t think it is the same for them as well without us being in the ground. Big session this... Dig in lads 🏏🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 pic.twitter.com/jOEKmcSOUw — England's Barmy Army (@TheBarmyArmy) July 11, 2020 × SC: So Chris, The Barmy Army recently completed its 25 years in what has been a roller-coaster ride. So how did it all start? Chris Millard: While I wasn’t in the official starting tour back in the day. It started with the three founders, David Peacock, Paul Burnham and Gareth Evans back in 1994/95 in Australia. The first tour they ever went on and the name came from a bunch of England fans getting badly sunburnt and singing songs all day and being there every day of the Test match when the team would get absolutely thrashed, which is typically very British. I know Indian fans don’t like to see their team lose and often leave the ground, same with the Australian fans are exactly the same. But the English fans are very patriotic and even stay when the team is playing rubbish. The Australian press branded them The Army Army – they were Barmy because of being together in the sun and getting burned while watching England team lose and they were Army because they were so many of them. So it got the ground from there and 25 years later now we are a company with 10 staff and we run a travel company that helps fans get to overseas. We do a lot of good stuff on social media as well. It is a bigger organization now with a professional outfit but we have a very humble root from 94/95. SC: Another important aspect of The Barmy Army is the love they have received from players. Starting from Mike Atherton to now Joe Root, love has always flown in for the group. So does it motivate you to improve with every series or tour? Chris Millard: Yes, for sure! It is very inspiring. But our main goal is to optimize the cricket team in an active not passive manner. Everyone who signs up to be a Barmy Army member is all on that journey to create the best possible atmosphere possible for the England team and another thing which we do is try and help the England team take a wicket. Once that happens, I think that’s job done. We have been chatting with a lot of players and they can’t really put into words how much admiration they have for The Barmy Army for what it has given to cricket in all these years. It is really nice to hear when they go on record and say how our support helps and enhance their performance sometimes and give them the lift they needed. And I am sure they are missing it right now. SC: So are the chants prepared in advance or it is all spontaneous? Adam Canning: It is a mix of both really. There are fans who travel all around the world with the team and there are times when they are thinking of a new song or tunes in between a series. But the magic happens when we get in the ground and have talks with musicians a night before or in the build-up to the series. So yes, some of them are pre-prepared and some of them are on the spot like the Mitchell Johnson chant – “he bowls to left, he bowls to the right…” – so it depends on the match situation as well. But we have quite a few creative people in the group and even people on social media send us songs all the time and there are many who don’t want to watch cricket and just listen to our songs. So a lot of variety is there on the table. SC: Chris, I will come to you for this question. You have a special connection with Joe Root. Can you tell something more about it? Chris Millard: We have been childhood friends, we have grown up together. Played cricket, football and every other sport together. We have been good friends and it is quite unique that he is the captain of England and I run The Barmy Army. He has had a helping hand in making sure that the company that tours around the world watching cricket. And it is so great to be able to tour around the world, watching a fantastic sportsman and a fantastic captain and when he is your mate then it makes your job a real dream. Honestly, we try and separate the working style when he is in the ground and doing nets, I don’t go over to him like a best mate, so there has to be respect for the England captain. But outside the working environment, we are really good mates and it is so nice to have that relationship. SC: So coming back to The Barmy Army, did you ever think it will reach the stature it has attained today? Adam Canning: Well, even our co-founders have told us that they never imagined what it has reached today. We have been a beast really. It is a global brand – The Barmy Army – everyone in the world has heard of The Barmy Army. You go to New York and mention the Barmy Army, people would have heard about it. It is unimaginable the growth we have achieved over the years. We have seen a huge growth in our digital channels, we run a really successful podcast. But supporting England and watching cricket all around the world is our absolute priority. For me growing as a fan for the last 10-15 years and now working for The Barmy Army, it is a dream. SC: But with the travel restrictions in place due to pandemic or even if it opens up a bit. Do you guys think it will be a challenge to support England and its cricket as it used to do? You will have to evolve with time…what’s your take on that? Chris Millard: Everyone has to evolve, isn’t it? The landscape is always changing. There have been so many developments in the business world, sport, music industry. People are adapting to survive and we are no different. We will be adapting we conduct our business but also how we support the England team while making sure we adhere to the guidelines set by the ECB and government. One thing I keep banging the drum is about the safety of all our members and of the entire cricket community. And we are ready to do everything for that be it support the team from the ground or away from it on the social media. SC: Another important part of your group is The Barmy Army awards. Virat Kohli has been a recipient of it. So how was it like to meet him in person and hand over the award? Chris Millard: It was our membership secretary who met Virat and he was very welcoming. He has won it two years in a row – overseas player of the year – and he was extremely welcoming to receive the award. So only good things to say about Virat. I know he is very fond of The Barmy Army, he has gone on record to say how much he loves The Barmy Army chants and how much good it does for the England team. A good bloke in my book. SC: Coming back to chants, in the Ashes 2010-11 where The Barmy Army literally rattled up Mitchell Johnson. But then he came back pretty strong in the 2013-14 Ashes. So what’s your take on the chants when opposition player gets motivated by it or get better mentally? Adam Canning: It is an interesting point. Like you mentioned earlier about the preparation behind the chants. A lot goes behind the scenes as to which player reacts how. So there’s a bit of study that goes behind. David Warner, for example, always fails when he comes to England with Stuart Broad getting LBWs and caught behinds within 10 minutes into the play. So we know we can get stuck into David Warner, he doesn’t react too well to it. Whereas Steve Smith, who got a bit of stick in the opening Test, grew into it and people started to say ‘leave him alone’. The more stick and banter we give it to him, the better he seems to bat. So we passed the Ashes as he didn’t exist and he was a bit of freak honestly. So yes, we definitely think about it in-depth. SC: I will go back to Ashes 2019 as you touched upon it. The Barmy Army came up with posters and banners about sandpaper. So is it all banter or something serious goes in the background? Adam Canning: Well, it is banter for sure. But we make sure we never cross the line and keep the principles of cricket in mind to enhance the atmosphere of Test cricket. So we try and create an atmosphere that people enjoy. We are a self-policing organization and we have got a strong group of people who ensure that we never cross the line. It is always banter and light-hearted, and we make sure it is never personal or abuse. Chris Millard: And what Adam said about self-policing, we operate on a code of conduct. If you are to signup as The Barmy Army member, you are a student of the game and adhere to all the rules we have put out to make sure we never cross the line. England fans in football have got a bad reputation for overseas support and we never want to be tarnish our reputation, so we have to be strict and honest with people to keep everyone in check. SC: As you spoke about self-policing, we have been seeing the support for the Black Lives Matter movement. Michael Holding, Ebony Rainford-Brent, Nasser Hussain, Mike Atherton and everyone have been brutally honest about racial discrimination on live television. So how do guys stop or react if a fan crosses the line? Chris Millard: It is a really good point. We are always looking at diversification, we are England fans and typical English fans have certain stereotype and we are looking to address that. But there are cricket fans from all different backgrounds and cultures and no matter who you are, which background, which religion, which culture you belong to, you are welcome as just as long as you are England cricket fans because that’s what we are. And we are going to make sure that we are inclusive to all the communities that we are blessed to have in the UK. And we are looking to address certain policies and make sure we are inclusive to everyone. I think a lot of sports businesses are looking at the same. "They keep on telling me there's nothing called white privilege. Give me break."#BlackLivesMatter pic.twitter.com/YYPD060MEV — Wisden (@WisdenCricket) July 8, 2020 × SC: So how is The Barmy Army looking at the future? Will the support be the same? Chris Millard: We will have more fans! If we are allowed to, then we will take more supporters and if we can then we will take more fans as people are really missing cricket and the England team. We came on the back of a really successful tour of South Africa where we took our own chartered plane from Heathrow to Cape Town, so that is an example of what we can do. So I really think if the India tour goes ahead or the Ashes, then it will be the biggest one ever. SC: What will be your message to the fans all around the world, who are missing being inside stadiums? Adam Canning: We are on the same boat. Sometimes people take things for granted and realise its role in your life later. People of The Barmy Army and the supporters are hopeful that we will get back to the stadium soon and support Test cricket at home or one of our future tours. We have a massive year lined up as long as COVID allows us to. We are going to go to Amsterdam for a tour and as Chris said hopefully we will be able to go for the Ashes. So it will be worth a wait. Chris Millard: I pretty much agree with Adam on that. Sit tight, we will be back before you know it. We will be back bigger and better, The Barmy Army. We are doing everything we can to enhance your experience in the UK or overseas. Stay safe, we will get through these difficult times.

Interview: 'We will be back bigger and better' - The Barmy Army

With the resumption of international cricket with the three-match England vs West Indies series, England captain for the first Test, Ben Stokes, dropped veteran Stuart Broad to give a massive selection surprise at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton.

England went with the troika of James Anderson, Jofra Archer while Mark Wood made the cut in the playing XI. However, both Archer and Wood were as the former went wicket-less while Wood picked up just a solitary wicket.&nbsp;

After Archer went wicket-less, former West Indies pacer Tino Best took to social media platform Twitter to criticise the Barbadian-born English speedster but Archer was quick to respond to the former pacer and took a dig at the 38-year-old.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/famed-india-cricket-stadium-to-be-used-for-coronavirus-quarantine-312546" hreflang="en">Famed India cricket stadium to be used for coronavirus quarantine</a>

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With all this knowledge how are you not a coach yet ? <a href="https://t.co/AU0m4LdgVU">https://t.co/AU0m4LdgVU</a>
— Jofra Archer (@JofraArcher) <a href="https://twitter.com/JofraArcher/status/1281691991139594241?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Don’t address me personally Young man , the fact remains your bowling toothpaste and u haven’t bowled Quickly since ASHES , now go sleep and get some rest for WI to beat ya ball in the second innings bye 👋🏾 Jorfa 🙏🏾 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SleepTight?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SleepTight</a>
— Tino95 (@tinobest) <a href="https://twitter.com/tinobest/status/1281703741327052800?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-contacts-20-clubs-over-need-for-distancing-during-matches-312541" hreflang="en">Premier League contacts 20 clubs over need for distancing during matches</a>

Broad, who was England’s highest wicket-taker in the last two Test series, ended up being frustrated and angry over his exclusion.&nbsp;

“I’m not a particularly emotional person but I’ve found the last couple of days quite tough.To say I’m disappointed would be an understatement - you get disappointed if you drop your phone and break your screen,” Broad said in the Sky Sports Player Zone.

“I’ve been frustrated, angry and gutted because it’s quite a hard decision to understand. I’ve probably bowled the best I’ve ever bowled in the last couple of years. I felt like it was my shirt, having been in the team through the Ashes and going to South Africa and winning there,” he said.

Archer, who has been mighty impressive across formats for England, has been subjected to criticism following a couple of inconsistent innings and was targeted after he went wicket-less in the first innings of the Southampton Test against the Windies.

Meanwhile, England have started the second innings strong and the opening pair of Dom Sibley and Rory Burns have stitched a 70-run partnership on Day 4 at the Rose Bowl. However, they still trail by 50 runs.

With the resumption of international cricket with the three-match England vs West Indies series, England captain for the first Test, Ben Stokes, dropped veteran Stuart Broad to give a massive selection surprise at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton.

With the resumption of international cricket with the three-match England vs West Indies series, England captain for the first Test, Ben Stokes, dropped veteran Stuart Broad to give a massive selection surprise at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton. England went with the troika of James Anderson, Jofra Archer while Mark Wood made the cut in the playing XI. However, both Archer and Wood were as the former went wicket-less while Wood picked up just a solitary wicket. After Archer went wicket-less, former West Indies pacer Tino Best took to social media platform Twitter to criticise the Barbadian-born English speedster but Archer was quick to respond to the former pacer and took a dig at the 38-year-old. ALSO READ: Famed India cricket stadium to be used for coronavirus quarantine With all this knowledge how are you not a coach yet ? https://t.co/AU0m4LdgVU — Jofra Archer (@JofraArcher) July 10, 2020 × Don’t address me personally Young man , the fact remains your bowling toothpaste and u haven’t bowled Quickly since ASHES , now go sleep and get some rest for WI to beat ya ball in the second innings bye 👋🏾 Jorfa 🙏🏾 #SleepTight — Tino95 (@tinobest) July 10, 2020 × ALSO READ: Premier League contacts 20 clubs over need for distancing during matches Broad, who was England’s highest wicket-taker in the last two Test series, ended up being frustrated and angry over his exclusion. “I’m not a particularly emotional person but I’ve found the last couple of days quite tough.To say I’m disappointed would be an understatement - you get disappointed if you drop your phone and break your screen,” Broad said in the Sky Sports Player Zone. “I’ve been frustrated, angry and gutted because it’s quite a hard decision to understand. I’ve probably bowled the best I’ve ever bowled in the last couple of years. I felt like it was my shirt, having been in the team through the Ashes and going to South Africa and winning there,” he said. Archer, who has been mighty impressive across formats for England, has been subjected to criticism following a couple of inconsistent innings and was targeted after he went wicket-less in the first innings of the Southampton Test against the Windies. Meanwhile, England have started the second innings strong and the opening pair of Dom Sibley and Rory Burns have stitched a 70-run partnership on Day 4 at the Rose Bowl. However, they still trail by 50 runs.

'How are you not a coach...' - Jofra Archer gets involved in online spat with ex-Windies pacer Tino Best

Real Madrid took another step towards their first La Liga title in three years by beating free-falling Alaves 2-0 at home on Friday, overcoming a number of high-profile absences to secure their eighth consecutive victory.

Real were missing three of their first-choice defenders as captain Sergio Ramos and Dani Carvajal were suspended and Marcelo was injured but they again showed their defensive solidity and recorded a fifth consecutive clean sheet.

Zinedine Zidane’s side got off to a comfortable start as Karim Benzema converted from the spot in the 11th minute after Ferland Mendy was judged to have been fouled by Ximo Navarro just as he entered the area.

It was the third game in a row in which Real had broken the deadlock thanks to a penalty and they sealed the win when Benzema turned provider and allowed Marco Asensio to tap into an empty net early in the second half.

Real moved on to 80 points, restoring their four-point lead over second-placed Barcelona with three games remaining.

Alaves meanwhile fell to a sixth consecutive defeat which left them in 17th place, hovering three points and one position above the relegation zone.

It was their first match under new coach Juan Ramon Lopez Muniz after Asier Garitano was dismissed and they made a bold start as former Real forward Joselu headed against the crossbar in the opening minute and Raphael Varane was forced to clear a shot on the rebound from Lucas Perez off the line.

The struggling visitors still managed to cause plenty of problems for Real’s makeshift defence after going behind, with Scottish winger Oliver Burke forcing Thibaut Courtois into a good save and later teeing up Joselu, whose shot ballooned over the bar.

Real’s second goal was initially ruled offside but awarded following a VAR review.

VAR also worked in their favour for the penalty, following a week in which Barca’s president and coach raged against how the technology has been used recently.

“The noise about VAR does not bother us, we can only control the attitude we continue to show on the pitch,” said Real defender Varane.

“We are focused on our objective and we have three finals left. It was vital to win and it was important to keep another clean sheet and that gives us a lot of confidence.”

Real Madrid took another step towards their first La Liga title in three years by beating free-falling Alaves 2-0 at home on Friday, overcoming a number of high-profile absences to secure their eighth consecutive victory.

Real Madrid took another step towards their first La Liga title in three years by beating free-falling Alaves 2-0 at home on Friday, overcoming a number of high-profile absences to secure their eighth consecutive victory. Real were missing three of their first-choice defenders as captain Sergio Ramos and Dani Carvajal were suspended and Marcelo was injured but they again showed their defensive solidity and recorded a fifth consecutive clean sheet. Zinedine Zidane’s side got off to a comfortable start as Karim Benzema converted from the spot in the 11th minute after Ferland Mendy was judged to have been fouled by Ximo Navarro just as he entered the area. It was the third game in a row in which Real had broken the deadlock thanks to a penalty and they sealed the win when Benzema turned provider and allowed Marco Asensio to tap into an empty net early in the second half. Real moved on to 80 points, restoring their four-point lead over second-placed Barcelona with three games remaining. Alaves meanwhile fell to a sixth consecutive defeat which left them in 17th place, hovering three points and one position above the relegation zone. It was their first match under new coach Juan Ramon Lopez Muniz after Asier Garitano was dismissed and they made a bold start as former Real forward Joselu headed against the crossbar in the opening minute and Raphael Varane was forced to clear a shot on the rebound from Lucas Perez off the line. The struggling visitors still managed to cause plenty of problems for Real’s makeshift defence after going behind, with Scottish winger Oliver Burke forcing Thibaut Courtois into a good save and later teeing up Joselu, whose shot ballooned over the bar. Real’s second goal was initially ruled offside but awarded following a VAR review. VAR also worked in their favour for the penalty, following a week in which Barca’s president and coach raged against how the technology has been used recently. “The noise about VAR does not bother us, we can only control the attitude we continue to show on the pitch,” said Real defender Varane. “We are focused on our objective and we have three finals left. It was vital to win and it was important to keep another clean sheet and that gives us a lot of confidence.”

Relentless Real can almost touch title after eighth win in a row

Kolkata's legendary Eden Gardens&nbsp;cricket stadium is to be used as a quarantine centre for Indian police who have the coronavirus, officials said Saturday.

With the city's hospitals under growing pressure, hundreds of beds are to be set up in the 80,000 capacity stadium that was used for the 1987 World Cup final.

Nearly 550 Kolkata police have tested positive for the coronavirus and two have died.

"It is our duty to help and support the administration in this hour of crisis. The quarantine facility will be used for police personnel who are COVID-19 warriors," said Cricket Association of Bengal president Avishek Dalmiya.

The beds will be put in galleries around the seating and not on the pitch that was last used by India for a day-night Test against Bangladesh last November.

"Such areas would be thoroughly segregated as a safety measure," added Dalmiya.

The stadium is also used by the Kolkata Knight Riders Indian Premier League side but this year's tournament has been repeatedly postponed because of the pandemic.

India's nationwide coronavirus toll rose Saturday to 820,916 cases with 22,193 deaths

Kolkata's legendary Eden Gardens cricket stadium is to be used as a quarantine centre for Indian police who have the coronavirus, officials said Saturday. With the city's hospitals under growing pressure, hundreds of beds are to be set up in the 80,000 capacity stadium that was used for the 1987 World Cup final.

Kolkata's legendary Eden Gardens cricket stadium is to be used as a quarantine centre for Indian police who have the coronavirus, officials said Saturday. With the city's hospitals under growing pressure, hundreds of beds are to be set up in the 80,000 capacity stadium that was used for the 1987 World Cup final. Nearly 550 Kolkata police have tested positive for the coronavirus and two have died. "It is our duty to help and support the administration in this hour of crisis. The quarantine facility will be used for police personnel who are COVID-19 warriors," said Cricket Association of Bengal president Avishek Dalmiya. The beds will be put in galleries around the seating and not on the pitch that was last used by India for a day-night Test against Bangladesh last November. "Such areas would be thoroughly segregated as a safety measure," added Dalmiya. The stadium is also used by the Kolkata Knight Riders Indian Premier League side but this year's tournament has been repeatedly postponed because of the pandemic. India's nationwide coronavirus toll rose Saturday to 820,916 cases with 22,193 deaths

Famed India cricket stadium to be used for coronavirus quarantine

Jack Charlton, a soccer World Cup winner with England who became the darling of Ireland after leading their national team to unprecedented success as manager, has died aged 85.

A family statement said the former Leeds United defender died peacefully on Friday at his home in Northumberland, northern England.

“We cannot express how proud we are of the extraordinary life he led and the pleasure he brought to so many people in different countries and from all walks of life,” the statement read.

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Rest in peace Jack <a href="https://t.co/Z6iIuIAzIE">pic.twitter.com/Z6iIuIAzIE</a>
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&nbsp;

“He was a thoroughly honest, kind, funny and genuine man who always had time for people. His loss will leave a huge hole in all our lives but we are thankful for a lifetime of happy memories.”

Charlton led Ireland to their first major finals at the 1988 European Championship and also took them to the World Cup quarter-finals in 1990.

Irish Prime Minister Michael Martin was among the first to tweet his reaction.

“So saddened to hear of the passing of Jack Charlton who brought such honesty and joy to the football world. He personified a golden era in Irish football - the Italia 90 campaign being one of pure joy for the nation. He gave us magical memories. Thank you Jack,” he said.

Jack Charlton, a soccer World Cup winner with England who became the darling of Ireland after leading their national team to unprecedented success as manager, has died aged 85.

Jack Charlton, a soccer World Cup winner with England who became the darling of Ireland after leading their national team to unprecedented success as manager, has died aged 85. A family statement said the former Leeds United defender died peacefully on Friday at his home in Northumberland, northern England. “We cannot express how proud we are of the extraordinary life he led and the pleasure he brought to so many people in different countries and from all walks of life,” the statement read. Rest in peace Jack pic.twitter.com/Z6iIuIAzIE — Leeds United (@LUFC) July 11, 2020 × “He was a thoroughly honest, kind, funny and genuine man who always had time for people. His loss will leave a huge hole in all our lives but we are thankful for a lifetime of happy memories.” Charlton led Ireland to their first major finals at the 1988 European Championship and also took them to the World Cup quarter-finals in 1990. Irish Prime Minister Michael Martin was among the first to tweet his reaction. “So saddened to hear of the passing of Jack Charlton who brought such honesty and joy to the football world. He personified a golden era in Irish football - the Italia 90 campaign being one of pure joy for the nation. He gave us magical memories. Thank you Jack,” he said.

Former England World Cup winner Jack Charlton dies at 85

With just over a year to go until the Tokyo Olympics, medical experts say the event could pose a grave health risk to the Japanese public, predicting that few people will have coronavirus antibodies and that vaccines will not be widely available.

Olympic organisers and the Japanese and Tokyo metropolitan governments are scrambling for steps to prevent the pandemic from derailing the event. But they say concrete plans are unlikely to shape up before the end of this year.

The global death toll from COVID-19, the respiratory illness caused by the new coronavirus, reached half a million late last month, and cases topped 10 million.

Although Tokyo on Thursday confirmed 224 new infections, a record high for a single day, Japan has largely avoided the disastrous effects seen in other countries.

That has scientists and medical experts concerned about how things might look next summer, a year after the Tokyo Games were postponed.

In interviews with a dozen infectious diseases experts, a common theme emerged: the Olympics would increase the risk of an outbreak.

“Infection will flare up if we push ahead with the Olympics and hold them. There is no doubt about it,” said Daiichi Morii, a doctor at Osaka University Hospital’s infection control team.

“The virus is barely under control as we are putting a halt on the inflow of people from overseas,” Morii added. “With events like the Olympics, the virus will come in for sure and the number of infections will shoot up inevitably.”

Japan’s success in containing the virus is part of the reason. A recent government survey showed only 0.1% of Tokyo residents have coronavirus antibodies. That is much lower than 14% in the state of New York in April, and 7% in Stockholm.

“Very few are infected in Japan and pretty much everyone is susceptible,” said Katsunori Yanagihara, professor in Nagasaki University’s school of tropical medicine and global health.

Antibodies help fight off infections, and scientists say having antibodies for the coronavirus might provide protection against re-infection. &nbsp;&nbsp;

There are more than 100 potential vaccines in development, but experts say none will likely be available in enough quantity in time for the Olympics, which involves about 200 countries.

“Even if a vaccine has been developed by then, it’s near impossible for it to go around the world,” said Atsuo Hamada, a professor at Tokyo Medical University Hospital.

A Tokyo voter survey by the Asahi Shimbun daily late last month showed that 59 percent of those polled believe the Olympics should be cancelled or postponed again, underscoring the public’s nagging worries about the pandemic.

In a bid to address such concerns, Yoshiro Mori, head of the Tokyo Olympic organising committee, on Monday told the capital’s governor, Yuriko Koike, that he planned to set up a task force with the central and metropolitan governments by September.

In the meeting, they discussed infection screening for foreign visitors and limiting crowd sizes, public broadcaster NHK reported.

Japan has had only about 20,000 cases and 980 deaths. Researchers have cited various factors for those low numbers, from the nation’s robust healthcare system to infrequent hugging and handshaking. But they say there is no clear single reason for the country’s success.

Norio Sugaya, a member of the World Health Organization’s influenza panel, said people in Japan should not feel secure just because of the relatively small scale of infections and deaths there so far.

“Talks about how Japan has ridden out the first wave successfully. Talks about ‘Japan miracle’. Those make me very worried,” Sugaya said. “It’s terrifying if there are people out there who believe Japan is invincible.”

With just over a year to go until the Tokyo Olympics, medical experts say the event could pose a grave health risk to the Japanese public, predicting that few people will have coronavirus antibodies and that vaccines will not be widely available.

With just over a year to go until the Tokyo Olympics, medical experts say the event could pose a grave health risk to the Japanese public, predicting that few people will have coronavirus antibodies and that vaccines will not be widely available. Olympic organisers and the Japanese and Tokyo metropolitan governments are scrambling for steps to prevent the pandemic from derailing the event. But they say concrete plans are unlikely to shape up before the end of this year. The global death toll from COVID-19, the respiratory illness caused by the new coronavirus, reached half a million late last month, and cases topped 10 million. Although Tokyo on Thursday confirmed 224 new infections, a record high for a single day, Japan has largely avoided the disastrous effects seen in other countries. That has scientists and medical experts concerned about how things might look next summer, a year after the Tokyo Games were postponed. In interviews with a dozen infectious diseases experts, a common theme emerged: the Olympics would increase the risk of an outbreak. “Infection will flare up if we push ahead with the Olympics and hold them. There is no doubt about it,” said Daiichi Morii, a doctor at Osaka University Hospital’s infection control team. “The virus is barely under control as we are putting a halt on the inflow of people from overseas,” Morii added. “With events like the Olympics, the virus will come in for sure and the number of infections will shoot up inevitably.” Japan’s success in containing the virus is part of the reason. A recent government survey showed only 0.1% of Tokyo residents have coronavirus antibodies. That is much lower than 14% in the state of New York in April, and 7% in Stockholm. “Very few are infected in Japan and pretty much everyone is susceptible,” said Katsunori Yanagihara, professor in Nagasaki University’s school of tropical medicine and global health. Antibodies help fight off infections, and scientists say having antibodies for the coronavirus might provide protection against re-infection. There are more than 100 potential vaccines in development, but experts say none will likely be available in enough quantity in time for the Olympics, which involves about 200 countries. “Even if a vaccine has been developed by then, it’s near impossible for it to go around the world,” said Atsuo Hamada, a professor at Tokyo Medical University Hospital. A Tokyo voter survey by the Asahi Shimbun daily late last month showed that 59 percent of those polled believe the Olympics should be cancelled or postponed again, underscoring the public’s nagging worries about the pandemic. In a bid to address such concerns, Yoshiro Mori, head of the Tokyo Olympic organising committee, on Monday told the capital’s governor, Yuriko Koike, that he planned to set up a task force with the central and metropolitan governments by September. In the meeting, they discussed infection screening for foreign visitors and limiting crowd sizes, public broadcaster NHK reported. Japan has had only about 20,000 cases and 980 deaths. Researchers have cited various factors for those low numbers, from the nation’s robust healthcare system to infrequent hugging and handshaking. But they say there is no clear single reason for the country’s success. Norio Sugaya, a member of the World Health Organization’s influenza panel, said people in Japan should not feel secure just because of the relatively small scale of infections and deaths there so far. “Talks about how Japan has ridden out the first wave successfully. Talks about ‘Japan miracle’. Those make me very worried,” Sugaya said. “It’s terrifying if there are people out there who believe Japan is invincible.”

With one year to go, experts warn of high-risk Tokyo Olympics amid pandemic

Manchester United were given a controversial helping hand by VAR in their 3-0 win at Aston Villa, while Tottenham suffered fresh frustration at the hands of the review system in their 0-0 draw at Bournemouth on Thursday.

United were far too strong for lowly Villa, but their opening goal came from a dubious penalty that left the hosts fuming.

In the 27th minute, United midfielder Bruno Fernandes spun into Ezri Konsa before tumbling in the area despite little evidence of a foul by the Villa defender.

The penalty stood after a VAR review and Fernandes slotted home his eighth goal since joining from Sporting Lisbon in January.

"It all changed on the penalty decision. Fernandes' first touch is on the ball, his second touch is on Konsa's shin," Villa manager Dean Smith said.

"I can understand (referee) Jon (Moss) getting it wrong but if that goes to VAR I don't know what they are looking at. It's a disgraceful decision."

United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer disagreed: "I think it's a penalty. The boy sticks out his leg, Fernandes does a fantastic 'Zidane turn' and he lands on him."

United doubled their lead in first half stoppage-time when 18-year-old Mason Greenwood scored his fourth goal in three games with a fierce finish.

Paul Pogba got the third in the 58th minute, the France midfielder bagging his first goal of an injury-hit season with a low curler from 18 yards.

Fifth placed United move to within one point of fourth placed Leicester in the race to qualify for the Champions League.

United, unbeaten in their last 17 games in all competitions, are the first team in Premier League history to win four consecutive matches by a margin of three or more goals.

Second bottom Villa are four points from safety and haven't won in six games since the restart.

There was more VAR controversy at Dean Court, with Tottenham left in danger of missing out on European competition for the first time since the 2009-10 season.

Jose Mourinho's side were off-key for long periods, but could feel hard done by after Josh King's push on Harry Kane in the penalty area went unpushed despite a VAR review in the first half.

Just a week after Tottenham were the victims of a harsh VAR decision in their loss at Sheffield United, Mourinho felt they were the victims of another bad mistake by the replay official.

"The same referee who did the VAR decision against Sheffield United, Michael Oliver. Opinions matter, It's not only mine. Everybody knows that's a penalty and when I say everybody, I mean everybody," Mourinho said.

"Normally at minute five we would be winning 1-0 against a team in trouble, I think the game would be completely different.

"The game had the most important moment. You know when, you know who. Like Sheffield, the man of the match was not one of the players."

Just a year after reaching the Champions League final, Tottenham sit in ninth place in the Premier League, 10 points off the top four and far from certain to make next season's Europa League.

Third bottom Bournemouth thought they had won it in stoppage-time, but Callum Wilson's overhead kick clearly hit King's hand on its way past Hugo Lloris and their celebrations were curtailed by VAR.

Eddie Howe's men, without a win in nine matches, are three points from safety with just four games left to avoid relegation.

At Goodison Park, Southampton held Everton to a 1-1 draw as Danny Ings boosted his bid for the Premier League's Golden Boot.

Southampton's James Ward-Prowse won a penalty in the 28th minute when he was tripped by Andre Gomes, but the midfielder blazed his spot-kick against the crossbar.

Three minutes after that blunder, Ings put Southampton ahead, rounding Jordan Pickford to claim his 19th league goal of the season, three behind the top-flight's current leading scorer Jamie Vardy.

Richarlison equalised in the 43rd minute with a clinical finish from Lucas Digne's superb long pass for his 14th goal of the season.

Manchester United were given a controversial helping hand by VAR in their 3-0 win at Aston Villa, while Tottenham suffered fresh frustration at the hands of the review system in their 0-0 draw at Bournemouth on Thursday.

Manchester United were given a controversial helping hand by VAR in their 3-0 win at Aston Villa, while Tottenham suffered fresh frustration at the hands of the review system in their 0-0 draw at Bournemouth on Thursday. United were far too strong for lowly Villa, but their opening goal came from a dubious penalty that left the hosts fuming. In the 27th minute, United midfielder Bruno Fernandes spun into Ezri Konsa before tumbling in the area despite little evidence of a foul by the Villa defender. The penalty stood after a VAR review and Fernandes slotted home his eighth goal since joining from Sporting Lisbon in January. "It all changed on the penalty decision. Fernandes' first touch is on the ball, his second touch is on Konsa's shin," Villa manager Dean Smith said. "I can understand (referee) Jon (Moss) getting it wrong but if that goes to VAR I don't know what they are looking at. It's a disgraceful decision." United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer disagreed: "I think it's a penalty. The boy sticks out his leg, Fernandes does a fantastic 'Zidane turn' and he lands on him." United doubled their lead in first half stoppage-time when 18-year-old Mason Greenwood scored his fourth goal in three games with a fierce finish. Paul Pogba got the third in the 58th minute, the France midfielder bagging his first goal of an injury-hit season with a low curler from 18 yards. Fifth placed United move to within one point of fourth placed Leicester in the race to qualify for the Champions League. United, unbeaten in their last 17 games in all competitions, are the first team in Premier League history to win four consecutive matches by a margin of three or more goals. Second bottom Villa are four points from safety and haven't won in six games since the restart. There was more VAR controversy at Dean Court, with Tottenham left in danger of missing out on European competition for the first time since the 2009-10 season. Jose Mourinho's side were off-key for long periods, but could feel hard done by after Josh King's push on Harry Kane in the penalty area went unpushed despite a VAR review in the first half. Just a week after Tottenham were the victims of a harsh VAR decision in their loss at Sheffield United, Mourinho felt they were the victims of another bad mistake by the replay official. "The same referee who did the VAR decision against Sheffield United, Michael Oliver. Opinions matter, It's not only mine. Everybody knows that's a penalty and when I say everybody, I mean everybody," Mourinho said. "Normally at minute five we would be winning 1-0 against a team in trouble, I think the game would be completely different. "The game had the most important moment. You know when, you know who. Like Sheffield, the man of the match was not one of the players." Just a year after reaching the Champions League final, Tottenham sit in ninth place in the Premier League, 10 points off the top four and far from certain to make next season's Europa League. Third bottom Bournemouth thought they had won it in stoppage-time, but Callum Wilson's overhead kick clearly hit King's hand on its way past Hugo Lloris and their celebrations were curtailed by VAR. Eddie Howe's men, without a win in nine matches, are three points from safety with just four games left to avoid relegation. At Goodison Park, Southampton held Everton to a 1-1 draw as Danny Ings boosted his bid for the Premier League's Golden Boot. Southampton's James Ward-Prowse won a penalty in the 28th minute when he was tripped by Andre Gomes, but the midfielder blazed his spot-kick against the crossbar. Three minutes after that blunder, Ings put Southampton ahead, rounding Jordan Pickford to claim his 19th league goal of the season, three behind the top-flight's current leading scorer Jamie Vardy. Richarlison equalised in the 43rd minute with a clinical finish from Lucas Digne's superb long pass for his 14th goal of the season.

VAR in the dock as Man Utd down Villa, Spurs frustrated

West Indies captain Jason Holder said "my Test is far from over" after he rocked England with a career-best six-wicket haul on the second day of the series opener at Southampton on Thursday.

Holder, the world's top-ranked all-rounder, took 6-42 as England were dismissed for 204 to surpass his previous Test-best of 6-59 against Bangladesh at Kingston two years ago.

It was the sixth time in his last 10 Tests that the towering paceman had taken five or more wickets in an innings, with Thursday's return including the prize scalp of rival all-rounder and stand-in England captain Ben Stokes.

West Indies have not won a Test series in England since 1988 but they hold the Wisden Trophy after a 2-1 success in the Caribbean last year -- when Holder made an unbeaten double century in an opening win at his Barbados home ground.

"I have done a good job so far but my Test is far from over," Holder told reporters after bad light forced an early close with West Indies 57-1, a deficit of 147 runs.&nbsp;

"I have a massive contribution to make with the bat," the 28-year-old added.

Holder had been struggling with an ankle injury in the lead-up to the series -- the first Test campaign since lockdown -- but still troubled England with his accuracy and late movement.&nbsp;

<h2>- 'Big wicket' -</h2>

He also led from the front.

West Indies had twice dropped Stokes, second in the Test all-rounder rankings, before Holder had him caught behind for 43, the top score of the innings, to end a stand of 67 with Jos Buttler (35).

"It was a big wicket to get," said Holder. "We put down two chances and he was looking to make us pay.&nbsp;

"His partnership with Jos was starting to blossom into something that could really hurt us.&nbsp;

"But I was getting just enough movement to keep him at bay, keep him playing and eventually got the edge."

Holder added he had a particular reason for wanting to do well in England this time.

"I really wanted to get on the honours board at Lord's," Holder said.&nbsp;

"We were scheduled to play there but then due to COVID they shuffled it around," he added of a series where the bio-secure grounds of the Ageas Bowl and Old Trafford, the venue for the last two Tests, are being used instead.

"One of the things I have always strived to do is to score a hundred in England and get a five-wicket haul. I've ticked one box, now it's time to knuckle down and get a hundred."

England opted to leave out veteran paceman Stuart Broad and deploy fast bowlers Jofra Archer and Mark Wood together for the first time in a Test.

But although both Archer and Wood topped speeds of 90 mph, it was James Anderson -- England's all-time most successful Test bowler -- who took the lone wicket of John Campbell.&nbsp;

"I think they are on top," said Wood of the West Indies.&nbsp;

"They have done really well today, bowled really well, showed us the way to go."&nbsp;

But Wood said the fact West Indies fast bowler Shannon Gabriel took 4-62 meant he didn't have to cut his pace.

"Gabriel got four wickets and he bowls quick, so that doesn't mean me and Jofra need to bowl slower."

West Indies captain Jason Holder said "my Test is far from over" after he rocked England with a career-best six-wicket haul on the second day of the series opener at Southampton on Thursday.

West Indies captain Jason Holder said "my Test is far from over" after he rocked England with a career-best six-wicket haul on the second day of the series opener at Southampton on Thursday. Holder, the world's top-ranked all-rounder, took 6-42 as England were dismissed for 204 to surpass his previous Test-best of 6-59 against Bangladesh at Kingston two years ago. It was the sixth time in his last 10 Tests that the towering paceman had taken five or more wickets in an innings, with Thursday's return including the prize scalp of rival all-rounder and stand-in England captain Ben Stokes. West Indies have not won a Test series in England since 1988 but they hold the Wisden Trophy after a 2-1 success in the Caribbean last year -- when Holder made an unbeaten double century in an opening win at his Barbados home ground. "I have done a good job so far but my Test is far from over," Holder told reporters after bad light forced an early close with West Indies 57-1, a deficit of 147 runs. "I have a massive contribution to make with the bat," the 28-year-old added. Holder had been struggling with an ankle injury in the lead-up to the series -- the first Test campaign since lockdown -- but still troubled England with his accuracy and late movement. - 'Big wicket' - He also led from the front. West Indies had twice dropped Stokes, second in the Test all-rounder rankings, before Holder had him caught behind for 43, the top score of the innings, to end a stand of 67 with Jos Buttler (35). "It was a big wicket to get," said Holder. "We put down two chances and he was looking to make us pay. "His partnership with Jos was starting to blossom into something that could really hurt us. "But I was getting just enough movement to keep him at bay, keep him playing and eventually got the edge." Holder added he had a particular reason for wanting to do well in England this time. "I really wanted to get on the honours board at Lord's," Holder said. "We were scheduled to play there but then due to COVID they shuffled it around," he added of a series where the bio-secure grounds of the Ageas Bowl and Old Trafford, the venue for the last two Tests, are being used instead. "One of the things I have always strived to do is to score a hundred in England and get a five-wicket haul. I've ticked one box, now it's time to knuckle down and get a hundred." England opted to leave out veteran paceman Stuart Broad and deploy fast bowlers Jofra Archer and Mark Wood together for the first time in a Test. But although both Archer and Wood topped speeds of 90 mph, it was James Anderson -- England's all-time most successful Test bowler -- who took the lone wicket of John Campbell. "I think they are on top," said Wood of the West Indies. "They have done really well today, bowled really well, showed us the way to go." But Wood said the fact West Indies fast bowler Shannon Gabriel took 4-62 meant he didn't have to cut his pace. "Gabriel got four wickets and he bowls quick, so that doesn't mean me and Jofra need to bowl slower."

Windies skipper Holder says he has more to do after six-wicket England haul

American Noha Lyles looked to have shattered the 200m world record set by Jamaican great Usain Bolt as he seems to have completed the track in just 18.90 seconds in the Inspiration Games before it was revealed that he only ran 185m.

Lyles’ 18.90 seconds would have broken the 19.19-second mark of world record holder Usain Bolt, who set the benchmark in 2009.

Lyles’ personal best is 19.50 seconds and as he was running into a strong headwind, the time clocked was immediately challenged.&nbsp;

"That cannot be right!" said BBC commentator Steve Cram while adding, "Even he has got his hands in the air wondering what is going on!"

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/three-covid-positive-players-tee-off-together-at-pga-event-312066" hreflang="en">Three COVID-positive players tee off together at PGA event</a>

But in what came as a shocking announced after around five minutes later, Cram revealed that world champions Lyles, who was running on his own in Florida, started from the wrong lane while running 15m less than his rivals at other tracks.&nbsp;

Lyles, 22, tweeted afterwards: "You can't be playing with my emotions like this...."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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You can’t be playing with my emotions like this.... 
got me in the wrong lane smh 🤦🏾‍♂️
— Noah Lyles (@LylesNoah) <a href="https://twitter.com/LylesNoah/status/1281307826825068546?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 9, 2020</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/real-madrids-vinicius-jr-to-retake-covid-19-test-after-error-zinedine-zidane-312057" hreflang="en">Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr to retake COVID-19 test after error: Zinedine Zidane</a>

Lyles ran in socks featuring character Sonic the Hedgehog at the event.

The ill-fated ending to one of the event’s headline races comes as a massive disappointment and embarrassment to Inspiration Games organisers, who looked upon television and timing technology to make major international athletics event possible despite restrictions due to COVID-19 pandemic.

In what was a first, athletes competed from different venues around the world with starting guns being fired simultaneously while the athletes’ efforts were shown alongside each other in a split-screen broadcast.

Lyles, who bagged the 200m world title in Doha in the year 2019, reached the bend in Florida way ahead of his opponents Christophe Lemaitre and Churandy Martina, who were competing from Switzerland and the Netherlands respectively.

He steamed past the line but his ‘winning time’ was revealed to have been helped by an error in the placement of his starting blocks, giving him a 15m headstart.

Lyles’ younger brother and fellow athlete Josephus were the first two who reacted immediately with disbelief.

As a result of the mistake, Lyles was removed from the race results and Lemaitre was handed the win instead. Winners of each event at the meeting received a $10,000 (£7,930) prize.

The globe-spanning competition, pitching Europe against North America and the rest of the world, was the brainwave of organisers of the Zurich Diamond League, cancelled because of the coronavirus pandemic.

American Noha Lyles looked to have shattered the 200m world record set by Jamaican great Usain Bolt as he seems to have completed the track in just 18.90 seconds in the Inspiration Games before it was revealed that he only ran 185m.

American Noha Lyles looked to have shattered the 200m world record set by Jamaican great Usain Bolt as he seems to have completed the track in just 18.90 seconds in the Inspiration Games before it was revealed that he only ran 185m. Lyles’ 18.90 seconds would have broken the 19.19-second mark of world record holder Usain Bolt, who set the benchmark in 2009. Lyles’ personal best is 19.50 seconds and as he was running into a strong headwind, the time clocked was immediately challenged. "That cannot be right!" said BBC commentator Steve Cram while adding, "Even he has got his hands in the air wondering what is going on!" ALSO READ: Three COVID-positive players tee off together at PGA event But in what came as a shocking announced after around five minutes later, Cram revealed that world champions Lyles, who was running on his own in Florida, started from the wrong lane while running 15m less than his rivals at other tracks. Lyles, 22, tweeted afterwards: "You can't be playing with my emotions like this...." You can’t be playing with my emotions like this.... got me in the wrong lane smh 🤦🏾‍♂️ — Noah Lyles (@LylesNoah) July 9, 2020 × ALSO READ: Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr to retake COVID-19 test after error: Zinedine Zidane Lyles ran in socks featuring character Sonic the Hedgehog at the event. The ill-fated ending to one of the event’s headline races comes as a massive disappointment and embarrassment to Inspiration Games organisers, who looked upon television and timing technology to make major international athletics event possible despite restrictions due to COVID-19 pandemic. In what was a first, athletes competed from different venues around the world with starting guns being fired simultaneously while the athletes’ efforts were shown alongside each other in a split-screen broadcast. Lyles, who bagged the 200m world title in Doha in the year 2019, reached the bend in Florida way ahead of his opponents Christophe Lemaitre and Churandy Martina, who were competing from Switzerland and the Netherlands respectively. He steamed past the line but his ‘winning time’ was revealed to have been helped by an error in the placement of his starting blocks, giving him a 15m headstart. Lyles’ younger brother and fellow athlete Josephus were the first two who reacted immediately with disbelief. As a result of the mistake, Lyles was removed from the race results and Lemaitre was handed the win instead. Winners of each event at the meeting received a $10,000 (£7,930) prize. The globe-spanning competition, pitching Europe against North America and the rest of the world, was the brainwave of organisers of the Zurich Diamond League, cancelled because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Noah Lyles' 200m 'world record' taken away as he ran just 185m

Formula One’s governing body has warned Ferrari about the risks of breaching the sport’s COVID-19 protocol and protective ‘bubble’.

Ferrari drivers Charles Leclerc and Sebastian Vettel have been seen mixing with people outside their individual team groups.

Leclerc returned to his Monaco home after finishing second in last Sunday’s Austrian Grand Prix while Vettel was shown on television talking to Red Bull bosses, without face masks, in the Red Bull Ring paddock.

“Ferrari have been issued with a reminder and warned that any further breaches of the COVID-19 code could be referred to the stewards,” said an FIA spokesman.

He added that the warning was about respecting the group system and need for social distancing rather than Leclerc’s travel movements.

The FIA’s COVID-19 code states that any time spent outside the closed venue “must be spent with other members of the same group, keeping interaction with persons outside that group to a minimum.”

Mercedes driver Valtteri Bottas, who won last Sunday, also went home to Monaco after the opening race but the Finn remained within his ‘bubble’ by seeing only those within his existing group — his girlfriend and trainer.

Some team bosses also left the Red Bull ring, including McLaren’s Zak Brown.

“Zak had to fly back for business reasons but he was following all the necessary measures which are in place in terms of social distancing and isolating himself... I don’t see any safety risk,” said McLaren principal Andreas Seidl.

Racing Point principal Otmar Szafnauer told reporters he was worried that some people might not be sticking to the rules.

“I think the FIA should look further and make sure that everybody is doing it,” he added.

“We all have to stay vigilant because... if there is an outbreak here and we have to miss races, that would be disastrous.”

Formula One said 4,566 COVID-19 tests conducted on the drivers, teams and personnel between July 3-9 had all been negative.

Formula One’s governing body has warned Ferrari about the risks of breaching the sport’s COVID-19 protocol and protective ‘bubble’. Ferrari drivers Charles Leclerc and Sebastian Vettel have been seen mixing with people outside their individual team groups.

Formula One’s governing body has warned Ferrari about the risks of breaching the sport’s COVID-19 protocol and protective ‘bubble’. Ferrari drivers Charles Leclerc and Sebastian Vettel have been seen mixing with people outside their individual team groups. Leclerc returned to his Monaco home after finishing second in last Sunday’s Austrian Grand Prix while Vettel was shown on television talking to Red Bull bosses, without face masks, in the Red Bull Ring paddock. “Ferrari have been issued with a reminder and warned that any further breaches of the COVID-19 code could be referred to the stewards,” said an FIA spokesman. He added that the warning was about respecting the group system and need for social distancing rather than Leclerc’s travel movements. The FIA’s COVID-19 code states that any time spent outside the closed venue “must be spent with other members of the same group, keeping interaction with persons outside that group to a minimum.” Mercedes driver Valtteri Bottas, who won last Sunday, also went home to Monaco after the opening race but the Finn remained within his ‘bubble’ by seeing only those within his existing group — his girlfriend and trainer. Some team bosses also left the Red Bull ring, including McLaren’s Zak Brown. “Zak had to fly back for business reasons but he was following all the necessary measures which are in place in terms of social distancing and isolating himself... I don’t see any safety risk,” said McLaren principal Andreas Seidl. Racing Point principal Otmar Szafnauer told reporters he was worried that some people might not be sticking to the rules. “I think the FIA should look further and make sure that everybody is doing it,” he added. “We all have to stay vigilant because... if there is an outbreak here and we have to miss races, that would be disastrous.” Formula One said 4,566 COVID-19 tests conducted on the drivers, teams and personnel between July 3-9 had all been negative.

Ferrari warned over COVID-19 protocol breach

While international cricket has resumed with the three-match Test series between England and West Indies, there is still unclarity surrounding the much-talked-about <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a>. While the Asia Cup 2020 has been officially postponed, the T20 World Cup is on the verge of postponement amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Hence, the question remains what happens to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">IPL</a>.&nbsp;

As per a report, some of the franchises are growing frustrated due to lack of clarity while losing hope for a full-fledged season of IPL 2020. And many of them, as per the report, feels that IPL 2020 has now started to look impossible. 
One of the IPL franchise CEO mulled over the lack of clarity as he said that it has started to hurt the interest of franchises, players and the sponsors.&nbsp;

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<h2>We are still unsure about IPL season this year: CEO of one IPL franchise</h2>

“We are still unsure about IPL season this year. Our foreign players have been sending messages for clarity on the season but like everyone else, at this stage, we don’t have any answers. BCCI has been updating us, but with each passing day we are losing hope now on IPL 2020.”, said Chief Executive Officer of one of the IPL franchise to InsideSport.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/windies-skipper-holder-says-he-has-more-to-do-after-six-wicket-england-haul-312194" hreflang="en">Windies skipper Holder says he has more to do after six-wicket England haul</a>

Another major issue for the franchises are the reduction in commercial incomes and that has led to some of the sponsors becoming jittery. One of the officials from a Southern India-based franchise said that one of their jersey sponsors have moved out and due to the uncertainty, they can’t approach other sponsors.&nbsp;

“Sponsors are really jittery at this stage, they have now started losing patience. They also want to negotiate on the previous deals. One of our Jersey sponsors also has moved out. We cannot go to the market and speak to the new sponsor as the IPL window is yet to be finalized. We want IPL 2020 to happen but it’s not looking too good at this stage”, said one of the top official representing Southern India based IPL franchise.

While the speculation is rife that the BCCI is looking at the September-November window for the IPL, the venues and fixtures are officially yet to be decided. 
&nbsp;

While international cricket has resumed with the three-match Test series between England and West Indies, there is still unclarity surrounding the much-talked-about Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020.

While international cricket has resumed with the three-match Test series between England and West Indies, there is still unclarity surrounding the much-talked-about Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020. While the Asia Cup 2020 has been officially postponed, the T20 World Cup is on the verge of postponement amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Hence, the question remains what happens to the IPL. As per a report, some of the franchises are growing frustrated due to lack of clarity while losing hope for a full-fledged season of IPL 2020. And many of them, as per the report, feels that IPL 2020 has now started to look impossible. One of the IPL franchise CEO mulled over the lack of clarity as he said that it has started to hurt the interest of franchises, players and the sponsors. ALSO READ: 'Gutted' Broad sought future reassurance after Southampton snub We are still unsure about IPL season this year: CEO of one IPL franchise “We are still unsure about IPL season this year. Our foreign players have been sending messages for clarity on the season but like everyone else, at this stage, we don’t have any answers. BCCI has been updating us, but with each passing day we are losing hope now on IPL 2020.”, said Chief Executive Officer of one of the IPL franchise to InsideSport. ALSO READ: Windies skipper Holder says he has more to do after six-wicket England haul Another major issue for the franchises are the reduction in commercial incomes and that has led to some of the sponsors becoming jittery. One of the officials from a Southern India-based franchise said that one of their jersey sponsors have moved out and due to the uncertainty, they can’t approach other sponsors. “Sponsors are really jittery at this stage, they have now started losing patience. They also want to negotiate on the previous deals. One of our Jersey sponsors also has moved out. We cannot go to the market and speak to the new sponsor as the IPL window is yet to be finalized. We want IPL 2020 to happen but it’s not looking too good at this stage”, said one of the top official representing Southern India based IPL franchise. While the speculation is rife that the BCCI is looking at the September-November window for the IPL, the venues and fixtures are officially yet to be decided.

'We are still unsure': Few franchises 'losing hope' of IPL 2020

Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson has been ruled out of the rest of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> champions’ campaign after the midfielder sustained a knee injury in their midweek win at Brighton &amp; Hove Albion, manager Juergen Klopp said on Friday.

Klopp was forced to withdraw Henderson 10 minutes from fulltime in the 3-1 win after a collision with Yves Bissouma but the German said the 30-year-old does not require surgery.

“It is the best possible of the bad news. He does not need surgery,” Klopp told reporters in a virtual news conference. “He will not play again this season. I’m pretty positive he will be with us for the new season, he is a quick healer.

“We all felt for him, awful moment. We knew immediately. Hendo is an animal he fights for everything. He deals well with pain but in this moment, he knew something had happened. It was a complete mood killer.

“The boys were happy with the result but then the boys realised Hendo was hurt. No surgery needed is the good news. He will lift the trophy, he deserves to lift the trophy.”

Liverpool, who are on 92 points with four games remaining, are on course to break Manchester City’s record haul of 100 points and face Burnley on Saturday.

Liverpool winger Mohamed Salah is in the running for the Golden Boot for the league’s top scorer again after winning the award last season, but the Egyptian is three goals behind Leicester City striker Jamie Vardy who has 22.

Klopp hailed Salah’s heroics after he was involved in all three goals at Brighton but dismissed talk of Liverpool’s players deliberately passing the ball for him to score and catch up with Vardy.

“I saw the replays back and Bobby (Roberto Firmino) was not in the best position for the shot and Mo was in a better place,” Klopp said. “I don’t think he did it for the Golden Boot. You cannot have that mindset, we all help.

“They all want to score goals, Bobby wants to score goals. That’s the mindset that we need.”

Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson has been ruled out of the rest of the Premier League champions’ campaign after the midfielder sustained a knee injury in their midweek win at Brighton & Hove Albion, manager Juergen Klopp said on Friday.

Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson has been ruled out of the rest of the Premier League champions’ campaign after the midfielder sustained a knee injury in their midweek win at Brighton & Hove Albion, manager Juergen Klopp said on Friday. Klopp was forced to withdraw Henderson 10 minutes from fulltime in the 3-1 win after a collision with Yves Bissouma but the German said the 30-year-old does not require surgery. “It is the best possible of the bad news. He does not need surgery,” Klopp told reporters in a virtual news conference. “He will not play again this season. I’m pretty positive he will be with us for the new season, he is a quick healer. “We all felt for him, awful moment. We knew immediately. Hendo is an animal he fights for everything. He deals well with pain but in this moment, he knew something had happened. It was a complete mood killer. “The boys were happy with the result but then the boys realised Hendo was hurt. No surgery needed is the good news. He will lift the trophy, he deserves to lift the trophy.” Liverpool, who are on 92 points with four games remaining, are on course to break Manchester City’s record haul of 100 points and face Burnley on Saturday. Liverpool winger Mohamed Salah is in the running for the Golden Boot for the league’s top scorer again after winning the award last season, but the Egyptian is three goals behind Leicester City striker Jamie Vardy who has 22. Klopp hailed Salah’s heroics after he was involved in all three goals at Brighton but dismissed talk of Liverpool’s players deliberately passing the ball for him to score and catch up with Vardy. “I saw the replays back and Bobby (Roberto Firmino) was not in the best position for the shot and Mo was in a better place,” Klopp said. “I don’t think he did it for the Golden Boot. You cannot have that mindset, we all help. “They all want to score goals, Bobby wants to score goals. That’s the mindset that we need.”

Liverpool skipper Henderson ruled out for season, says Klopp

An “angry and gutted” Stuart Broad sought reassurance about his England future after being dropped for the ongoing series opener against West Indies, the 34-year-old quick said on Friday.

England’s decision to go with James Anderson, Jofra Archer and Mark Wood for the first test in Southampton snapped Broad’s run of 51 consecutive home tests.

“I’m not a particularly emotional person but I’ve found the last couple of days quite tough,” the right-arm paceman told Sky Sports.

“To say I’m disappointed would be an understatement: you get disappointed if you drop your phone and break your screen.

“I’ve been frustrated, angry and gutted - because it’s quite a hard decision to understand.

“I’ve probably bowled the best I’ve ever bowled in the last couple of years. I felt like it was my shirt having been in the team through the Ashes and going to South Africa and winning there.”

Broad said stand-in skipper Ben Stokes had explained his omission for the first match of the three-test series against West Indies.

“Stokesy told me just that they’re going with extra pace in these conditions,” said Broad.

“I wanted clarifications on the future going forward and I was given pretty positive feedback going forward.

“I spoke to (national selector) Ed Smith last night and he said he’s involved in picking the 13 and this was picked purely for this pitch.”

Broad acknowledged competition was intense for a place in the pace department.

“We’re in quite a unique position this summer: very rarely do you get all your bowlers fit like we’ve got at the minute and all your bowlers ready to go,” he said.

“I don’t think I’ve got anything to prove - England know what I can do, the selectors know what I can do - and when I get that opportunity again you can bet I’ll be on the money.”

An “angry and gutted” Stuart Broad sought reassurance about his England future after being dropped for the ongoing series opener against West Indies, the 34-year-old quick said on Friday.

An “angry and gutted” Stuart Broad sought reassurance about his England future after being dropped for the ongoing series opener against West Indies, the 34-year-old quick said on Friday. England’s decision to go with James Anderson, Jofra Archer and Mark Wood for the first test in Southampton snapped Broad’s run of 51 consecutive home tests. “I’m not a particularly emotional person but I’ve found the last couple of days quite tough,” the right-arm paceman told Sky Sports. “To say I’m disappointed would be an understatement: you get disappointed if you drop your phone and break your screen. “I’ve been frustrated, angry and gutted - because it’s quite a hard decision to understand. “I’ve probably bowled the best I’ve ever bowled in the last couple of years. I felt like it was my shirt having been in the team through the Ashes and going to South Africa and winning there.” Broad said stand-in skipper Ben Stokes had explained his omission for the first match of the three-test series against West Indies. “Stokesy told me just that they’re going with extra pace in these conditions,” said Broad. “I wanted clarifications on the future going forward and I was given pretty positive feedback going forward. “I spoke to (national selector) Ed Smith last night and he said he’s involved in picking the 13 and this was picked purely for this pitch.” Broad acknowledged competition was intense for a place in the pace department. “We’re in quite a unique position this summer: very rarely do you get all your bowlers fit like we’ve got at the minute and all your bowlers ready to go,” he said. “I don’t think I’ve got anything to prove - England know what I can do, the selectors know what I can do - and when I get that opportunity again you can bet I’ll be on the money.”

'Gutted' Broad sought future reassurance after Southampton snub

Daniel Ricciardo limped away in pain on Friday after crashing his Renault heavily during second free practice for this weekend's Styrian Grand Prix.

The 30-year-old Australian lost control of his car at Turn Nine and bumped backwards into the barriers, destroying much of the rear of his vehicle.

After a lengthy delay, the McLaren-bound driver hauled himself out of the cockpit and, limping heavily, walked out across the gravel trap.

He told his team on radio that he was ok as the session was red-flagged to a halt.

On a hot day at the Red Bull Ring, with torrential rain forecast for Saturday, the accident may have ruined his prospects for Sunday's race even if his team can perform all the necessary repairs.

He was collected by the medical car and taken to the circuit medical centre.

Daniel Ricciardo limped away in pain on Friday after crashing his Renault heavily during second free practice for this weekend's Styrian Grand Prix. The 30-year-old Australian lost control of his car at Turn Nine and bumped backwards into the barriers, destroying much of the rear of his vehicle.

Daniel Ricciardo limped away in pain on Friday after crashing his Renault heavily during second free practice for this weekend's Styrian Grand Prix. The 30-year-old Australian lost control of his car at Turn Nine and bumped backwards into the barriers, destroying much of the rear of his vehicle. After a lengthy delay, the McLaren-bound driver hauled himself out of the cockpit and, limping heavily, walked out across the gravel trap. He told his team on radio that he was ok as the session was red-flagged to a halt. On a hot day at the Red Bull Ring, with torrential rain forecast for Saturday, the accident may have ruined his prospects for Sunday's race even if his team can perform all the necessary repairs. He was collected by the medical car and taken to the circuit medical centre.

Ricciardo limps away after big crash in practice

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> has admitted that VAR got penalty decisions wrong in all three matches on Thursday, as frustration mounts over the use of the technology in the English top-flight.

Manchester United were given a controversial helping hand by the video assistant referee in their 3-0 win at Aston Villa, while Tottenham suffered fresh frustration from the review system in their 0-0 draw at Bournemouth.

United midfielder Bruno Fernandes won a spot kick when he spun into Ezri Konsa before tumbling in the area despite little evidence of a foul by the Villa defender.

Jose Mourinho's Spurs were off-key for long periods but could feel hard done by after Josh King's push on Harry Kane in the penalty area went unpunished despite a VAR review.

Southampton's James Ward-Prowse hit the bar after a disputed penalty as the south coast side drew 1-1 with Everton.

The Premier League confirmed to the BBC's Match of the Day programme that United and Southampton should not have been given penalties, but Tottenham should have been awarded one.

Former Everton midfielder Tim Cahill, a Match of the Day pundit, said a former player should work alongside VAR officials.

"I think that would really help them, to understand the movements," the former Australia international said.

"When a player falls to buy a penalty you can feel it. It must need a player there to give advice on what the player is doing.

"They're there to make the big decisions and they can't do it. It's really disappointing."

Mourinho refused to speak about Michael Oliver's appointment as referee for Sunday's match against Arsenal at his pre-match press conference.

Oliver has been the VAR official for Spurs' past two away games. There were controversial decisions in both -- a Harry Kane goal was chalked off for a Lucas Moura handball at Sheffield United and no penalty was award at Bournemouth.

Mourinho believes referees and VAR officials should be made accessible after games to explain their decisions.

"I think you should have access to them, I think you should have access to them to ask directly why," he said.

"It is very important. They are very important in the game, I think so.

"It would stop nothing, make things much more open, much more clear. It would give the ref the chance to say, 'Yes, I made a mistake -- I feel sorry for that', or 'Yes I had incredible performance'."

The Premier League has admitted that VAR got penalty decisions wrong in all three matches on Thursday, as frustration mounts over the use of the technology in the English top-flight.

The Premier League has admitted that VAR got penalty decisions wrong in all three matches on Thursday, as frustration mounts over the use of the technology in the English top-flight. Manchester United were given a controversial helping hand by the video assistant referee in their 3-0 win at Aston Villa, while Tottenham suffered fresh frustration from the review system in their 0-0 draw at Bournemouth. United midfielder Bruno Fernandes won a spot kick when he spun into Ezri Konsa before tumbling in the area despite little evidence of a foul by the Villa defender. Jose Mourinho's Spurs were off-key for long periods but could feel hard done by after Josh King's push on Harry Kane in the penalty area went unpunished despite a VAR review. Southampton's James Ward-Prowse hit the bar after a disputed penalty as the south coast side drew 1-1 with Everton. The Premier League confirmed to the BBC's Match of the Day programme that United and Southampton should not have been given penalties, but Tottenham should have been awarded one. Former Everton midfielder Tim Cahill, a Match of the Day pundit, said a former player should work alongside VAR officials. "I think that would really help them, to understand the movements," the former Australia international said. "When a player falls to buy a penalty you can feel it. It must need a player there to give advice on what the player is doing. "They're there to make the big decisions and they can't do it. It's really disappointing." Mourinho refused to speak about Michael Oliver's appointment as referee for Sunday's match against Arsenal at his pre-match press conference. Oliver has been the VAR official for Spurs' past two away games. There were controversial decisions in both -- a Harry Kane goal was chalked off for a Lucas Moura handball at Sheffield United and no penalty was award at Bournemouth. Mourinho believes referees and VAR officials should be made accessible after games to explain their decisions. "I think you should have access to them, I think you should have access to them to ask directly why," he said. "It is very important. They are very important in the game, I think so. "It would stop nothing, make things much more open, much more clear. It would give the ref the chance to say, 'Yes, I made a mistake -- I feel sorry for that', or 'Yes I had incredible performance'."

Premier League admits VAR blunders

The draw for the final eight of the 2019-20 UEFA Champions League season was made at the UEFA headquarters in Nyon, Switzerland on Friday. In what was a new-looked draw amid COVID-19 pandemic, club representatives joined the draw via video-conference with only a presenter and the draw-maker present at the venue.&nbsp;

In quarter-finals, the winner between Real Madrid vs Manchester City will take on the winner from Juventus vs Lyon. Whereas Red Bull Leipzig will face Atletico Madrid, who defeated holders Liverpool to advance to the QFs.&nbsp;

The winner between Barcelona vs Napoli will lock horns with Bayern Munich or Chelsea with Atalanta taking on Paris Saint-Germain in QF 4.&nbsp;

The quarter-finals of UEFA Champions League will be held on between August 12-15 in Lisbon, Portugal.

<h2>UCL - Quarter-finals</h2>

Real Madrid (ESP) or Manchester City (ENG) v Juventus (ITA) or Lyon (FRA)

RB Leipzig (GER) v Atletico Madrid (ESP)

Barcelona (ESP) or Napoli (ITA) v Bayern Munich (GER) or Chelsea (ENG)

Atalanta (ITA) v Paris Saint-Germain (FRA)

The semi-finals will see the winner of Real Madrid/Man City/Juventus/Lyon take on the winner of Barcelona/Napoli/Bayern Munich/Chelsea.

The semis of UCL will be played on August 18 and 19 in Lisbon with the final scheduled for August 23.

<h2>UCL - Semi-finals</h2>

Real Madrid/Man City/Juventus/Lyon v Barcelona/Napoli/Bayern Munich/Chelsea

RB Leipzig or Atletico Madrid v Atalanta or Paris Saint-Germain

Ties to be played on August 18 and 19 in Lisbon.

Notably, all the matches from quarter-finals onwards will be one-legged ties as UEFA scraps the traditional two-legged ties keeping COVID-19 pandemic in mind. 
&nbsp;

The draw for the final eight of the 2019-20 UEFA Champions League season was made at the UEFA headquarters in Nyon, Switzerland on Friday. In what was a new-looked draw amid COVID-19 pandemic, club representatives joined the draw via video-conference with only a presenter and the draw-maker present at the venue.

The draw for the final eight of the 2019-20 UEFA Champions League season was made at the UEFA headquarters in Nyon, Switzerland on Friday. In what was a new-looked draw amid COVID-19 pandemic, club representatives joined the draw via video-conference with only a presenter and the draw-maker present at the venue. In quarter-finals, the winner between Real Madrid vs Manchester City will take on the winner from Juventus vs Lyon. Whereas Red Bull Leipzig will face Atletico Madrid, who defeated holders Liverpool to advance to the QFs. The winner between Barcelona vs Napoli will lock horns with Bayern Munich or Chelsea with Atalanta taking on Paris Saint-Germain in QF 4. The quarter-finals of UEFA Champions League will be held on between August 12-15 in Lisbon, Portugal. UCL - Quarter-finals Real Madrid (ESP) or Manchester City (ENG) v Juventus (ITA) or Lyon (FRA) RB Leipzig (GER) v Atletico Madrid (ESP) Barcelona (ESP) or Napoli (ITA) v Bayern Munich (GER) or Chelsea (ENG) Atalanta (ITA) v Paris Saint-Germain (FRA) The semi-finals will see the winner of Real Madrid/Man City/Juventus/Lyon take on the winner of Barcelona/Napoli/Bayern Munich/Chelsea. The semis of UCL will be played on August 18 and 19 in Lisbon with the final scheduled for August 23. UCL - Semi-finals Real Madrid/Man City/Juventus/Lyon v Barcelona/Napoli/Bayern Munich/Chelsea RB Leipzig or Atletico Madrid v Atalanta or Paris Saint-Germain Ties to be played on August 18 and 19 in Lisbon. Notably, all the matches from quarter-finals onwards will be one-legged ties as UEFA scraps the traditional two-legged ties keeping COVID-19 pandemic in mind.

UEFA Champions League final eight draw throws up possible Bayern Munich-Barcelona clash

In what can be termed as a historic announced, the Board of Directors of ATK Mohun Bagan Private Limited met on Friday as they unanimously decided to retain the iconic green and maroon jersey which has been engraved in the 131-year legacy of Mohun Bagan.&nbsp;

Albeit with a minor tweak in the logo of Mohun Bagan, ATK’s name has been added as the club looks forward to a new future with culture and tradition is kept intact.&nbsp;

Sanjiv Goenka Principal Owner ATK Mohun Bagan Private Limited said "My pronams to the many legends who have over decades contributed to the great legacy that Mohun Bagan is. I seek their blessings in this new journey. Mohun Bagan has been close to my heart since childhood. I have had the honour to watch the Green and Maroon play some of their best football. We respect legacy and have retained the same jersey which generations down the line have embraced, adored and loved. My dream is to establish ATK Mohun Bagan as a world-class team which earns its place in the international circuit."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-champions-league-draw-for-quarter-final-semi-final-live-streaming-telecast-timing-and-more-312224" hreflang="en">UEFA Champions League draw for quarter-final, semi-final: Live Streaming, Telecast, Timing and more</a>

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The iconic green and maroon colours of Mohun Bagan jersey retained <a href="https://t.co/Vx2hm67FN7">pic.twitter.com/Vx2hm67FN7</a>
— ATK (@ATKFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ATKFC/status/1281502643093860352?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<h2>I salute the coming together of ATK and Mohun Bagan: Sourav Ganguly</h2>

Sourav Ganguly co-owner ATK Mohun Bagan Private Limited said "I salute the coming together of ATK and Mohun Bagan. Together the brand name ATK Mohun Bagan will create history."

ATK Mohun Bagan Private Limited will further invest in building world-class football academy in Bengal in a bid to improve the local players and their talent. It is being done to ensure Bengal becomes the powerhouse of Indian football.

ATK Mohun Bagan football schools will also be launched across the country to educate the youngsters with high-quality football education.&nbsp;

Furthermore, investments will be made to refurbish the existing Mohun Bagan facility so that ISL and AFC home matches are held in the state.&nbsp;

Srinjoy Bose and Mr Debashis Dutta Directors ATK Mohun Bagan Private Limited said "We are indeed delighted that the Board of ATK Mohun Bagan has agreed to keep the colour green and maroon and the ' Pal Tola Nauka ' image as the house colour and the mnemonic of the new avatar of Mohun Bagan. These have been the heartbeat of millions of ardent football followers spread all across the globe. The spirit of sports and camaraderie lives on. We have utmost faith and confidence that this entity under the able guidance of the Board will carry forward the 131 years of Legacy and Heritage which will resonate in the global arena of Football. In one sentence this avtaar will be Glorius past Vibrant future ."

The meeting was attended by Dr. Sanjiv &nbsp;Goenka Principal Owner ATK Mohun Bagan, Mr. Sourav Ganguly Co-owner ATK Mohun Bagan, Mr. Utsav Parekh Co-owner ATK Mohun Bagan, Mr. Srinjoy Bose Director ATK Mohun Bagan, Mr. Debashis Dutta Director ATK Mohun Bagan, Mr. Gautam Ray Director ATK Mohun Bagan and Mr. Sanjeev Mehra Director ATK Mohun Bagan . 
&nbsp;

In what can be termed as a historic announced, the Board of Directors of ATK Mohun Bagan Private Limited met on Friday as they unanimously decided to retain the iconic green and maroon jersey which has been engraved in the 131-year legacy of Mohun Bagan.

In what can be termed as a historic announced, the Board of Directors of ATK Mohun Bagan Private Limited met on Friday as they unanimously decided to retain the iconic green and maroon jersey which has been engraved in the 131-year legacy of Mohun Bagan. Albeit with a minor tweak in the logo of Mohun Bagan, ATK’s name has been added as the club looks forward to a new future with culture and tradition is kept intact. Sanjiv Goenka Principal Owner ATK Mohun Bagan Private Limited said "My pronams to the many legends who have over decades contributed to the great legacy that Mohun Bagan is. I seek their blessings in this new journey. Mohun Bagan has been close to my heart since childhood. I have had the honour to watch the Green and Maroon play some of their best football. We respect legacy and have retained the same jersey which generations down the line have embraced, adored and loved. My dream is to establish ATK Mohun Bagan as a world-class team which earns its place in the international circuit." ALSO READ: UEFA Champions League draw for quarter-final, semi-final: Live Streaming, Telecast, Timing and more The iconic green and maroon colours of Mohun Bagan jersey retained pic.twitter.com/Vx2hm67FN7 — ATK (@ATKFC) July 10, 2020 × I salute the coming together of ATK and Mohun Bagan: Sourav Ganguly Sourav Ganguly co-owner ATK Mohun Bagan Private Limited said "I salute the coming together of ATK and Mohun Bagan. Together the brand name ATK Mohun Bagan will create history." ATK Mohun Bagan Private Limited will further invest in building world-class football academy in Bengal in a bid to improve the local players and their talent. It is being done to ensure Bengal becomes the powerhouse of Indian football. ATK Mohun Bagan football schools will also be launched across the country to educate the youngsters with high-quality football education. Furthermore, investments will be made to refurbish the existing Mohun Bagan facility so that ISL and AFC home matches are held in the state. Srinjoy Bose and Mr Debashis Dutta Directors ATK Mohun Bagan Private Limited said "We are indeed delighted that the Board of ATK Mohun Bagan has agreed to keep the colour green and maroon and the ' Pal Tola Nauka ' image as the house colour and the mnemonic of the new avatar of Mohun Bagan. These have been the heartbeat of millions of ardent football followers spread all across the globe. The spirit of sports and camaraderie lives on. We have utmost faith and confidence that this entity under the able guidance of the Board will carry forward the 131 years of Legacy and Heritage which will resonate in the global arena of Football. In one sentence this avtaar will be Glorius past Vibrant future ." The meeting was attended by Dr. Sanjiv Goenka Principal Owner ATK Mohun Bagan, Mr. Sourav Ganguly Co-owner ATK Mohun Bagan, Mr. Utsav Parekh Co-owner ATK Mohun Bagan, Mr. Srinjoy Bose Director ATK Mohun Bagan, Mr. Debashis Dutta Director ATK Mohun Bagan, Mr. Gautam Ray Director ATK Mohun Bagan and Mr. Sanjeev Mehra Director ATK Mohun Bagan .

Historic announcement for ATK Mohun Bagan as club retains logo, iconic 'Green-Maroon' jersey

As football continues to set benchmarks in Europe after its resumption after a prolonged break due to COVID-19, UEFA Champions League is also gearing up for a restart with the draws for the UCL quarter-finals, semi-finals and final set to take place on Friday at UEFA headquarters in Nyon, Switzerland on Friday July 10.&nbsp;

While UEFA has confirmed that the remaining second legs from the round of 16 will be played at the original venues, the final 8 and the rest of the tournament will be played in Lisbon, Portugal.&nbsp;

The knockouts starting from the Final 8 will be single-leg fixtures as new rules come into play due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The matches will be split between Benfica's Estádio do Sport Lisboa e Benfica (which will host the final) and Sporting CP's Estádio José Alvalade.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/var-in-the-dock-as-man-utd-down-villa-spurs-frustrated-312195" hreflang="en">VAR in the dock as Man Utd down Villa, Spurs frustrated</a>

Four teams in Atalanta (ITA), Atlético (ESP). Leipzig (GER) and Paris Saint-Germain (FRA) have already qualified for the Final 8 while Chelsea (ENG) / Bayern München (GER), Napoli (ITA) / Barcelona (ESP), Real Madrid (ESP) / Manchester City (ENG), Lyon (FRA) / Juventus (ITA) will battle it out in the remaining second leg matches in a bid to enter the Final 8.

ALSO READ: <a href="Noah Lyles' 200m 'world record' taken away as he ran just 185m">Bizarre!&nbsp;Noah Lyles' 200m 'world record' taken away as he ran just 185m</a>

<h2>When and where to watch draws for UEFA Champions League quarter-final, semi-final and final?</h2>

The draws for of UEFA Champions League quarter-final, semi-final and final will be live on Sony Ten 2 and Ten 2 HD. The draws will be start from&nbsp;12:00 CET (3:30 PM IST).

<h2>When and where to watch the live streaming of draws for UEFA Champions League quarter-final, semi-final and final?</h2>

The draws for the UEFA Champions League quarter-final, semi-final and final will be on Sony’s official streaming platform.

<h2>UEFA Champions League: What are the key dates?</h2>

<ul>
	<li>7–8 August: Round of 16 second legs</li>
	<li>12–15 August: Quarter-finals (Lisbon)</li>
	<li>18–19 August: Semi-finals (Lisbon)</li>
	<li>23 August: Final (Estádio do Sport Lisboa e Benfica, Lisbon)</li>
</ul>

 
&nbsp;

As football continues to set benchmarks in Europe after its resumption after a prolonged break due to COVID-19, UEFA Champions League is also gearing up for a restart with the draws for the UCL quarter-finals, semi-finals and final set to take place on Friday at UEFA headquarters in Nyon, Switzerland on Friday July 10.

As football continues to set benchmarks in Europe after its resumption after a prolonged break due to COVID-19, UEFA Champions League is also gearing up for a restart with the draws for the UCL quarter-finals, semi-finals and final set to take place on Friday at UEFA headquarters in Nyon, Switzerland on Friday July 10. While UEFA has confirmed that the remaining second legs from the round of 16 will be played at the original venues, the final 8 and the rest of the tournament will be played in Lisbon, Portugal. The knockouts starting from the Final 8 will be single-leg fixtures as new rules come into play due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The matches will be split between Benfica's Estádio do Sport Lisboa e Benfica (which will host the final) and Sporting CP's Estádio José Alvalade. ALSO READ: VAR in the dock as Man Utd down Villa, Spurs frustrated Four teams in Atalanta (ITA), Atlético (ESP). Leipzig (GER) and Paris Saint-Germain (FRA) have already qualified for the Final 8 while Chelsea (ENG) / Bayern München (GER), Napoli (ITA) / Barcelona (ESP), Real Madrid (ESP) / Manchester City (ENG), Lyon (FRA) / Juventus (ITA) will battle it out in the remaining second leg matches in a bid to enter the Final 8. ALSO READ: Bizarre! Noah Lyles' 200m 'world record' taken away as he ran just 185m When and where to watch draws for UEFA Champions League quarter-final, semi-final and final? The draws for of UEFA Champions League quarter-final, semi-final and final will be live on Sony Ten 2 and Ten 2 HD. The draws will be start from 12:00 CET (3:30 PM IST). When and where to watch the live streaming of draws for UEFA Champions League quarter-final, semi-final and final? The draws for the UEFA Champions League quarter-final, semi-final and final will be on Sony’s official streaming platform. UEFA Champions League: What are the key dates? 7–8 August: Round of 16 second legs 12–15 August: Quarter-finals (Lisbon) 18–19 August: Semi-finals (Lisbon) 23 August: Final (Estádio do Sport Lisboa e Benfica, Lisbon)

UEFA Champions League draw for quarter-final, semi-final: Live Streaming, Telecast, Timing and more

New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has dismissed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealand-offers-to-host-ipl-after-uae-and-sri-lanka-confirms-bcci-official-311116">reports stating</a> that it has offered to host the postponed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL)</a> 2020, terming it as “speculation”. NZC spokesperson Richard Boock said that the board has not expressed any interest to host the IPL nor they have been approached to do so.&nbsp;

The 13th edition of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">IPL</a> was to be held in March but was postponed indefinitely due to COVID-19 pandemic. Boock’s statement comes after a BCCI official said that New Zealand have joined the UAE and Sri Lanka in the race to host IPL 2020 given the money-spinning tournament is shifted abroad due to rising cases of coronavirus in India.

<h2>The report is simply speculation: New Zealand Cricket spokesperson on hosting IPL 2020</h2>

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/interview-i-want-to-leave-a-legacy-and-set-fresh-benchmarks-sreesanth-311099" hreflang="en">Interview | I want to leave a legacy and set fresh benchmarks: Sreesanth</a>

"The report is simply speculation. We have not offered to host the IPL nor have we had an approach to do so," NZC spokesperson Boock was quoted as saying by Radio New Zealand.

The BCCI is eyeing a September-November window to host IPL 2020 in place of the T20 World Cup, which is set to be postponed due to growing cases of the dreaded virus.&nbsp;

It will not be the first time the IPL is taken out of India as the 2009 edition was hosted by South Africa because of general elections in India, whereas the 2014 edition was partially hosted by the UAE.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/questions-will-be-raised-if-ipl-2020-happens-but-t20-world-cup-is-postponed-inzamam-ul-haq-311059" hreflang="en">Questions will be raised if IPL 2020 happens but T20 World Cup is postponed: Inzamam-ul-Haq</a>

As per reports, the T20 World Cup is all set to be postponed when ICC officials meet on Friday (July 10) to discuss the showpiece tournament. The tournament, which was scheduled to be hosted by Australia in October-November, may get pushed back to 2022 as India are to host the 2021 edition with the 50-over World Cup in 2023 also set to be played in India. 
&nbsp;

New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has dismissed reports stating that it has offered to host the postponed Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, terming it as “speculation”. NZC spokesperson Richard Boock said that the board has not expressed any interest to host the IPL nor they have been approached to do so.

New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has dismissed reports stating that it has offered to host the postponed Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, terming it as “speculation”. NZC spokesperson Richard Boock said that the board has not expressed any interest to host the IPL nor they have been approached to do so. The 13th edition of the IPL was to be held in March but was postponed indefinitely due to COVID-19 pandemic. Boock’s statement comes after a BCCI official said that New Zealand have joined the UAE and Sri Lanka in the race to host IPL 2020 given the money-spinning tournament is shifted abroad due to rising cases of coronavirus in India. The report is simply speculation: New Zealand Cricket spokesperson on hosting IPL 2020 ALSO READ: Interview | I want to leave a legacy and set fresh benchmarks: Sreesanth "The report is simply speculation. We have not offered to host the IPL nor have we had an approach to do so," NZC spokesperson Boock was quoted as saying by Radio New Zealand. The BCCI is eyeing a September-November window to host IPL 2020 in place of the T20 World Cup, which is set to be postponed due to growing cases of the dreaded virus. It will not be the first time the IPL is taken out of India as the 2009 edition was hosted by South Africa because of general elections in India, whereas the 2014 edition was partially hosted by the UAE. ALSO READ: Questions will be raised if IPL 2020 happens but T20 World Cup is postponed: Inzamam-ul-Haq As per reports, the T20 World Cup is all set to be postponed when ICC officials meet on Friday (July 10) to discuss the showpiece tournament. The tournament, which was scheduled to be hosted by Australia in October-November, may get pushed back to 2022 as India are to host the 2021 edition with the 50-over World Cup in 2023 also set to be played in India.

New Zealand offering to host IPL 2020 is speculation: NZC spokesperson

Mohamed Salah kept Liverpool on track to set a new <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> points record as the champions won 3-1 at Brighton, while Manchester City bounced back to form with a five-goal rout of Newcastle on Wednesday.

Jurgen Klopp's side are hoping to break the 100-point record established by Manchester City in 2018 and they remain on course after securing their first away win since February.

Liverpool have 92 points and need nine more from their remaining four games against Burnley, Arsenal, Chelsea and Newcastle to clinch the new record.

Asked about the record chase, Klopp said: "It's not important for me. I'm not interested in any of this but I want to win football games.

"For sports people in general it might be important. We are champions and it could be softening but it is not. The boys go with everything."

Liverpool have reached 30 wins in a season faster than any other in English league history and Klopp added: "We now have 92 points and last season we had 97!&nbsp;

"That's unbelievable, I have no idea how we did that."

Salah punished poor defending in the sixth minute, grabbing his 22nd goal of the season and Liverpool's first away from home since February.

Jordan Henderson increased Liverpool's advantage with a curling finish from the edge of the area three minutes later.

Leandro Trossard got one back with a powerful strike in first-half stoppage-time.

But Salah's 76th-minute header from Andrew Robertson's corner ensured Liverpool's five-match winless run on their travels came to an end.

Second-placed City lost for the ninth time in the league this season at Southampton on Sunday.

&nbsp;

<h2>- City back on song -</h2>

&nbsp;

But Pep Guardiola's men have now won all four games at the Etihad since the restart by a combined score of 17-0 after thumping Newcastle 5-0.

Gabriel Jesus was one of the main culprits when it came to missed chances at St Mary's, but the Brazilian needed just 10 minutes to score against Newcastle as he steered David Silva's cross into the far corner.

Kevin De Bruyne then picked out Riyad Mahrez for a simple finish.

There was more than a hint of fortune to City's third as Matt Ritchie's attempted clearance ricocheted off Federico Fernandez into his own net.

Silva's appearances at the Etihad are running out, with the Spaniard ending his 10-year stay in Manchester when City's season finishes in August.

He left another reminder of why he will be so missed with a sumptuous free-kick to make it four.

And Silva turned provider again in stoppage time for Raheem Sterling to round off the scoring.

"His performance today and in the last games, the level he is having is the best of the season," Guardiola said of Silva.

City will find out next week if the club's appeal against a two-season ban from European competition to the Court of Arbitration for Sport has been successful.

But they have almost done the job on the field to qualify for the Champions League for a 10th consecutive season with a 14-point lead over fifth-placed Manchester United, who have five games remaining.

"We played good, the same level as the last games. Today we score the goals we missed the last game," Guardiola said.

Wolves' Champions League aspirations stumbled again in a last-gasp 1-0 defeat at Sheffield United.

Nuno Espirito Santo's men fell to a second straight defeat when John Egan's powerful header won it for the Blades in stoppage-time.

Victory moved United up to seventh, within one point of Wolves, who remain seven points adrift of the top four.

At the bottom of the table, West Ham failed to give themselves more breathing space from the bottom three with a 1-0 home defeat by Burnley.

Jay Rodriguez's header seven minutes before half-time moved the Clarets into the top half of the table.

West Ham remain four points above the relegation zone, but Villa and Bournemouth, who host Manchester United and Tottenham respectively, have the chance to narrow that gap on Thursday.

Mohamed Salah kept Liverpool on track to set a new Premier League points record as the champions won 3-1 at Brighton, while Manchester City bounced back to form with a five-goal rout of Newcastle on Wednesday.

Mohamed Salah kept Liverpool on track to set a new Premier League points record as the champions won 3-1 at Brighton, while Manchester City bounced back to form with a five-goal rout of Newcastle on Wednesday. Jurgen Klopp's side are hoping to break the 100-point record established by Manchester City in 2018 and they remain on course after securing their first away win since February. Liverpool have 92 points and need nine more from their remaining four games against Burnley, Arsenal, Chelsea and Newcastle to clinch the new record. Asked about the record chase, Klopp said: "It's not important for me. I'm not interested in any of this but I want to win football games. "For sports people in general it might be important. We are champions and it could be softening but it is not. The boys go with everything." Liverpool have reached 30 wins in a season faster than any other in English league history and Klopp added: "We now have 92 points and last season we had 97! "That's unbelievable, I have no idea how we did that." Salah punished poor defending in the sixth minute, grabbing his 22nd goal of the season and Liverpool's first away from home since February. Jordan Henderson increased Liverpool's advantage with a curling finish from the edge of the area three minutes later. Leandro Trossard got one back with a powerful strike in first-half stoppage-time. But Salah's 76th-minute header from Andrew Robertson's corner ensured Liverpool's five-match winless run on their travels came to an end. Second-placed City lost for the ninth time in the league this season at Southampton on Sunday. - City back on song - But Pep Guardiola's men have now won all four games at the Etihad since the restart by a combined score of 17-0 after thumping Newcastle 5-0. Gabriel Jesus was one of the main culprits when it came to missed chances at St Mary's, but the Brazilian needed just 10 minutes to score against Newcastle as he steered David Silva's cross into the far corner. Kevin De Bruyne then picked out Riyad Mahrez for a simple finish. There was more than a hint of fortune to City's third as Matt Ritchie's attempted clearance ricocheted off Federico Fernandez into his own net. Silva's appearances at the Etihad are running out, with the Spaniard ending his 10-year stay in Manchester when City's season finishes in August. He left another reminder of why he will be so missed with a sumptuous free-kick to make it four. And Silva turned provider again in stoppage time for Raheem Sterling to round off the scoring. "His performance today and in the last games, the level he is having is the best of the season," Guardiola said of Silva. City will find out next week if the club's appeal against a two-season ban from European competition to the Court of Arbitration for Sport has been successful. But they have almost done the job on the field to qualify for the Champions League for a 10th consecutive season with a 14-point lead over fifth-placed Manchester United, who have five games remaining. "We played good, the same level as the last games. Today we score the goals we missed the last game," Guardiola said. Wolves' Champions League aspirations stumbled again in a last-gasp 1-0 defeat at Sheffield United. Nuno Espirito Santo's men fell to a second straight defeat when John Egan's powerful header won it for the Blades in stoppage-time. Victory moved United up to seventh, within one point of Wolves, who remain seven points adrift of the top four. At the bottom of the table, West Ham failed to give themselves more breathing space from the bottom three with a 1-0 home defeat by Burnley. Jay Rodriguez's header seven minutes before half-time moved the Clarets into the top half of the table. West Ham remain four points above the relegation zone, but Villa and Bournemouth, who host Manchester United and Tottenham respectively, have the chance to narrow that gap on Thursday.

Premier League: Liverpool boost record bid, Man City crush Newcastle

Barcelona kept their faint title hopes alive and doomed Espanyol to relegation on Wednesday as Luis Suarez's goal proved the winner in a pivotal Catalan derby at the top and bottom of La Liga.&nbsp;

A cagey contest at Camp Nou exploded into life for six frantic minutes at the start of the second half as Ansu Fati and Pol Lozano were sent off, leaving each side with 10 men before Suarez struck.&nbsp;

Suarez profitted after another superb contribution from a reinvigorated Antoine Griezmann, his backheel setting up Lionel Messi to shoot, with Suarez turning in the rebound.&nbsp;

This 1-0 victory was a far cry from the sparkling 4-1 win over Villarreal on Sunday but it moves Barca to within a point of Real Madrid, who play their game in hand at home to Alaves on Friday.&nbsp;

Espanyol, rooted to the bottom of the table, will be relegated. They sit 11 points adrift of safety with only three games left to play.

"Life or death" read the front page of Mundo Deportivo on Thursday morning - for Barcelona, who had to win to stay in touch with Madrid, and for Espanyol, given they needed a victory to prolong their survival effort.&nbsp;

Griezmann's combination with Suarez and Messi, coming after his sumptuous chip against Villarreal, sustains the Frenchman's momentum but this was more of a gritty win against an Espanyol team that hit the post at 0-0 and had chances.

With the superior head-to-head and a kind last four fixtures, Real Madrid remain firm favourites.&nbsp;

"We have to win our next three games," said Suarez. "What Madrid do is up to them. If they drop points, fantastic. We just have to be there if they do."&nbsp;

Espanyol needed to win but have not beaten Barcelona in the league since 2009 when Mauricio Pochettino was in charge and Rufete, the team's fourth coach this season, accepted Messi's commiserations at the final whistle with a look of resignation.&nbsp;

The club's supporters this week expressed anger after a "shameful season" under the Chinese Rastar Group, which took majority control in 2016.

&nbsp;

<h2>- 'Ask forgiveness' -</h2>

Only Barcelona, Real Madrid and Athletic Bilbao have spent more seasons in the top flight than Espanyol, who after 26 consecutive campaigns there must now rebuild.&nbsp;

"We ask forgiveness from our fans," said Javi Lopez.&nbsp;

"We know these are tough moments for us but for our fans as well. This season nothing has gone right. It's our fault and we are committed to coming back stronger."&nbsp;

Barcelona had a lot of the ball in the first half but did little with it and in fact Espanyol had the better chances on the counter-attack.&nbsp;

Adri Embarba sped away down the right after honing on goal his finish had to be blocked by the outstretched right leg of Marc-Andre ter Stegen.&nbsp;

Ter Stegen was called upon again before half-time and this time Didac Vila raced clear down the left, his shot rebounding off the goalkeeper and Clement Lenglet before falling back to Vila, who hit the far post.&nbsp;

Quique Setien acted at the break, bringing Fati on and shifting Sergi Roberto to right-back but the 17-year-old lasted only five minutes, a high challenge on Fernando Calero earning in him a straight red card on review.&nbsp;

But any advantage Espanyol had was short-lived because Lozano then flew in high on Gerard Pique, with his studs up, and was also sent off to make it 10 against 10.&nbsp;

With the numbers equal but the spaces bigger, Barcelona could attack with greater freedom and they took the lead three minutes later.&nbsp;

A delightful Griezmann backheel teed up Messi to shoot and the ball spilled out for Suarez to tap in.&nbsp;

Messi almost added a second with a thumping volley at the back post while Espanyol wanted a penalty in injury-time when a shot hit the shoulder of Arturo Vidal. The appeals were rightly waved away.&nbsp;

Villarreal had earlier beaten Getafe 3-1 to reduce the gap behind Sevilla in fourth to three points.

Santi Cazorla scored two penalties for Villarreal to all-but end Getafe's own hopes of Champions League qualification. Sevilla play away at Athletic Bilbao on Thursday.&nbsp;

Barcelona kept their faint title hopes alive and doomed Espanyol to relegation on Wednesday as Luis Suarez's goal proved the winner in a pivotal Catalan derby at the top and bottom of La Liga.

Barcelona kept their faint title hopes alive and doomed Espanyol to relegation on Wednesday as Luis Suarez's goal proved the winner in a pivotal Catalan derby at the top and bottom of La Liga. A cagey contest at Camp Nou exploded into life for six frantic minutes at the start of the second half as Ansu Fati and Pol Lozano were sent off, leaving each side with 10 men before Suarez struck. Suarez profitted after another superb contribution from a reinvigorated Antoine Griezmann, his backheel setting up Lionel Messi to shoot, with Suarez turning in the rebound. This 1-0 victory was a far cry from the sparkling 4-1 win over Villarreal on Sunday but it moves Barca to within a point of Real Madrid, who play their game in hand at home to Alaves on Friday. Espanyol, rooted to the bottom of the table, will be relegated. They sit 11 points adrift of safety with only three games left to play. "Life or death" read the front page of Mundo Deportivo on Thursday morning - for Barcelona, who had to win to stay in touch with Madrid, and for Espanyol, given they needed a victory to prolong their survival effort. Griezmann's combination with Suarez and Messi, coming after his sumptuous chip against Villarreal, sustains the Frenchman's momentum but this was more of a gritty win against an Espanyol team that hit the post at 0-0 and had chances. With the superior head-to-head and a kind last four fixtures, Real Madrid remain firm favourites. "We have to win our next three games," said Suarez. "What Madrid do is up to them. If they drop points, fantastic. We just have to be there if they do." Espanyol needed to win but have not beaten Barcelona in the league since 2009 when Mauricio Pochettino was in charge and Rufete, the team's fourth coach this season, accepted Messi's commiserations at the final whistle with a look of resignation. The club's supporters this week expressed anger after a "shameful season" under the Chinese Rastar Group, which took majority control in 2016. - 'Ask forgiveness' - Only Barcelona, Real Madrid and Athletic Bilbao have spent more seasons in the top flight than Espanyol, who after 26 consecutive campaigns there must now rebuild. "We ask forgiveness from our fans," said Javi Lopez. "We know these are tough moments for us but for our fans as well. This season nothing has gone right. It's our fault and we are committed to coming back stronger." Barcelona had a lot of the ball in the first half but did little with it and in fact Espanyol had the better chances on the counter-attack. Adri Embarba sped away down the right after honing on goal his finish had to be blocked by the outstretched right leg of Marc-Andre ter Stegen. Ter Stegen was called upon again before half-time and this time Didac Vila raced clear down the left, his shot rebounding off the goalkeeper and Clement Lenglet before falling back to Vila, who hit the far post. Quique Setien acted at the break, bringing Fati on and shifting Sergi Roberto to right-back but the 17-year-old lasted only five minutes, a high challenge on Fernando Calero earning in him a straight red card on review. But any advantage Espanyol had was short-lived because Lozano then flew in high on Gerard Pique, with his studs up, and was also sent off to make it 10 against 10. With the numbers equal but the spaces bigger, Barcelona could attack with greater freedom and they took the lead three minutes later. A delightful Griezmann backheel teed up Messi to shoot and the ball spilled out for Suarez to tap in. Messi almost added a second with a thumping volley at the back post while Espanyol wanted a penalty in injury-time when a shot hit the shoulder of Arturo Vidal. The appeals were rightly waved away. Villarreal had earlier beaten Getafe 3-1 to reduce the gap behind Sevilla in fourth to three points. Santi Cazorla scored two penalties for Villarreal to all-but end Getafe's own hopes of Champions League qualification. Sevilla play away at Athletic Bilbao on Thursday.

Barcelona stay in touch with Real Madrid and send down rivals Espanyol

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