Twenty-five years after England's dramatic Euro 96 campaign revived the nation's love affair with football, Gareth Southgate's side aim to emulate the golden summer when football came home.

England manager Southgate leads his team into their opening match of the European Championship against Croatia at Wembley on Sunday.

It should be a memorable occasion as England play on home turf at a major tournament for the first time since Euro 96.

For Southgate, England's role as one of several hosts of the delayed Euro 2020 offers a chance for redemption after his penalty miss condemned the country to Euro 96 semi-final heartache against Germany.

If England can create the same wave of national enthusiasm that Terry Venables' team surfed 25 years ago, Southgate will have a chance of winning a first major title for the country since the 1966 World Cup.

English football was undergoing a long-awaited rebirth by the time Euro 96 arrived, recovering from a dark period in which its image was badly damaged by hooligan gangs who clashed in decaying stadiums.&nbsp;

The Premier League had been established four years earlier, with&nbsp;Britpop bands Blur and Oasis and even future prime minister Tony Blair jumping on the bandwagon to broaden the game's appeal.

Capturing the optimistic "Cool Britannia" mood, comedians David Baddiel and Frank Skinner teamed up with The Lightning Seeds to write England's Euro 96 anthem "Three Lions".

With its "Football's Coming Home" chorus, the song became the soundtrack to England's summer.

Yet, while there were unforgettable days ahead, England started Euro 96 in disarray.

Celebrating Paul Gascoigne's birthday during a pre-tournament trip to Hong Kong, England players found themselves on the front pages after a drunken evening at the China Jump bar.

The debauchery peaked in the "dentist's chair" -- a drinking game in which the footballers sat with their mouths open as tequila and vodka were poured in.

Gascoigne and other players were also involved in a heated dispute that led to televisions being damaged on a Cathay Pacific flight back to London.

Rather than read the riot act as tabloid headlines screamed "Disgracefool", Venables fostered a seige mentality among his squad.

<h2>- 'We had a lot of fun' -</h2>

Venables' ploy nearly backfired when England were held to a 1-1 draw against Switzerland in their opening game at Wembley.

But England's tournament turned in the grudge match against Scotland, an opponent who&nbsp;lie in wait for Southgate's men in their Euro 2020 group.

Alan Shearer headed England into the lead and David Seaman saved Gary McAllister's penalty before Gascoigne repaid Venables' faith with a sublime goal that showcased his maverick genius.

Gascoigne celebrated by lying on the ground while Teddy Sheringham squirted a water bottle into his open mouth in a nod to their "dentist's chair" antics.

"Gazza saw the dentist's chair in the middle of this bar. From that moment it turns into chaos," former England midfielder Jamie Redknapp recalled.

"One of the great nights. And Gazza's like 'I'm going to score against Scotland and when I do, I'm going to do the dentist chair'.

"Apart from Bobby Moore lifting the World Cup, that's the best picture I've seen of anyone in an England shirt."

England produced one of their greatest performances to crush the Netherlands 4-1 in their final group game.

But after surviving a tense shootout to beat Spain in the last eight, England's infamous penalty demons resurfaced when they faced Germany in a pulsating semi-final.

Stefan Kuntz cancelled out Shearer's opener and, after Gascoigne was inches away from an extra-time winner, it was Southgate who played the villain with his shoot-out miss.&nbsp;

Southgate wept on Venables' shoulder, while Germany went on to beat the Czech Republic in the final.

Despite the painful denouement, Euro 96 remains an iconic moment in English football, one that Southgate would love to recreate with his team over the next month.

"It was not only that we reached the semi-finals, it was that we had a lot of fun along the way, and I think the whole country did too," Shearer said.

Twenty-five years after England's dramatic Euro 96 campaign revived the nation's love affair with football, Gareth Southgate's side aim to emulate the golden summer when football came home.

Twenty-five years after England's dramatic Euro 96 campaign revived the nation's love affair with football, Gareth Southgate's side aim to emulate the golden summer when football came home. England manager Southgate leads his team into their opening match of the European Championship against Croatia at Wembley on Sunday. It should be a memorable occasion as England play on home turf at a major tournament for the first time since Euro 96. For Southgate, England's role as one of several hosts of the delayed Euro 2020 offers a chance for redemption after his penalty miss condemned the country to Euro 96 semi-final heartache against Germany. If England can create the same wave of national enthusiasm that Terry Venables' team surfed 25 years ago, Southgate will have a chance of winning a first major title for the country since the 1966 World Cup. English football was undergoing a long-awaited rebirth by the time Euro 96 arrived, recovering from a dark period in which its image was badly damaged by hooligan gangs who clashed in decaying stadiums. The Premier League had been established four years earlier, with Britpop bands Blur and Oasis and even future prime minister Tony Blair jumping on the bandwagon to broaden the game's appeal. Capturing the optimistic "Cool Britannia" mood, comedians David Baddiel and Frank Skinner teamed up with The Lightning Seeds to write England's Euro 96 anthem "Three Lions". With its "Football's Coming Home" chorus, the song became the soundtrack to England's summer. Yet, while there were unforgettable days ahead, England started Euro 96 in disarray. Celebrating Paul Gascoigne's birthday during a pre-tournament trip to Hong Kong, England players found themselves on the front pages after a drunken evening at the China Jump bar. The debauchery peaked in the "dentist's chair" -- a drinking game in which the footballers sat with their mouths open as tequila and vodka were poured in. Gascoigne and other players were also involved in a heated dispute that led to televisions being damaged on a Cathay Pacific flight back to London. Rather than read the riot act as tabloid headlines screamed "Disgracefool", Venables fostered a seige mentality among his squad. - 'We had a lot of fun' - Venables' ploy nearly backfired when England were held to a 1-1 draw against Switzerland in their opening game at Wembley. But England's tournament turned in the grudge match against Scotland, an opponent who lie in wait for Southgate's men in their Euro 2020 group. Alan Shearer headed England into the lead and David Seaman saved Gary McAllister's penalty before Gascoigne repaid Venables' faith with a sublime goal that showcased his maverick genius. Gascoigne celebrated by lying on the ground while Teddy Sheringham squirted a water bottle into his open mouth in a nod to their "dentist's chair" antics. "Gazza saw the dentist's chair in the middle of this bar. From that moment it turns into chaos," former England midfielder Jamie Redknapp recalled. "One of the great nights. And Gazza's like 'I'm going to score against Scotland and when I do, I'm going to do the dentist chair'. "Apart from Bobby Moore lifting the World Cup, that's the best picture I've seen of anyone in an England shirt." England produced one of their greatest performances to crush the Netherlands 4-1 in their final group game. But after surviving a tense shootout to beat Spain in the last eight, England's infamous penalty demons resurfaced when they faced Germany in a pulsating semi-final. Stefan Kuntz cancelled out Shearer's opener and, after Gascoigne was inches away from an extra-time winner, it was Southgate who played the villain with his shoot-out miss. Southgate wept on Venables' shoulder, while Germany went on to beat the Czech Republic in the final. Despite the painful denouement, Euro 96 remains an iconic moment in English football, one that Southgate would love to recreate with his team over the next month. "It was not only that we reached the semi-finals, it was that we had a lot of fun along the way, and I think the whole country did too," Shearer said.

'Football's Coming Home': England aim to emulate spirit of Euro 96

India's Sunil Chhetri said Wednesday comparisons with Lionel Messi are misplaced after overtaking him in number of goals, and added he remains a huge fan of the Argentine star.

Chhetri surpassed Messi's tally of 72 international goals in India's 2-0 win over Bangladesh on Monday to stand behind top-ranked Cristiano Ronaldo (103) among active players.

"The fact is there is no comparison whatsoever (with Messi)," Chhetri, who has scored 74 international goals, said from Doha.

"When anyone sees those (top goal scorer) chart, be happy for five seconds as an Indian and that's about it. Forget about me and Messi because the whole world, including me, is a fan of Messi."

Chhetri, 36, scored all two goals in India's victory in the qualifying match for the 2022 FIFA World Cup and 2023 AFC Asian Cup.

With 73 strikes Ali Mabkhout, of the United Arab Emirates, is also above Messi -- a six-time Ballon d'Or winner widely regarded as the greatest player of the modern era.

India, who are ranked 105th in the FIFA team rankings, are already out of the race to qualify for the World Cup but can make it to the Asian Cup in China.

India's Sunil Chhetri said Wednesday comparisons with Lionel Messi are misplaced after overtaking him in number of goals, and added he remains a huge fan of the Argentine star.

India's Sunil Chhetri said Wednesday comparisons with Lionel Messi are misplaced after overtaking him in number of goals, and added he remains a huge fan of the Argentine star. Chhetri surpassed Messi's tally of 72 international goals in India's 2-0 win over Bangladesh on Monday to stand behind top-ranked Cristiano Ronaldo (103) among active players. "The fact is there is no comparison whatsoever (with Messi)," Chhetri, who has scored 74 international goals, said from Doha. "When anyone sees those (top goal scorer) chart, be happy for five seconds as an Indian and that's about it. Forget about me and Messi because the whole world, including me, is a fan of Messi." Chhetri, 36, scored all two goals in India's victory in the qualifying match for the 2022 FIFA World Cup and 2023 AFC Asian Cup. With 73 strikes Ali Mabkhout, of the United Arab Emirates, is also above Messi -- a six-time Ballon d'Or winner widely regarded as the greatest player of the modern era. India, who are ranked 105th in the FIFA team rankings, are already out of the race to qualify for the World Cup but can make it to the Asian Cup in China.

Football: India's Sunil Chhetri says no comparisons with Lionel Messi

Spain have set up a "parallel" squad of 17 reserves for Euro 2020 who may have to play if the Covid-19 infections among its players spread, team management said on Wednesday.&nbsp;

In a decision announced just hours after Spain defender Diego Llorente became the second player to test positive for Covid-19,&nbsp;the Spanish football federation (RFEF) announced in a statement posted on its website that it was setting up a "parallel bubble".

The RFEF said it had called in 11 players to join six backups who were already acting as cover for the coronavirus-hit first-choice squad.&nbsp;

Captain Sergio Busquets tested positive on Sunday, just a week before Spain open their Euro campaign on Monday, playing Sweden in Group E in the southern city of Seville.&nbsp;

Sweden's Euro 2020 squad has also been hit by infections, with two players, star forward Dejan Kulusevski and midfielder Mattias Svanberg, testing positive, its federation said Tuesday.

Since Busquests tested positive, Spain's entire Euro squad has been in isolation.&nbsp;

The 11 newcomers were part of an Under-21 team that thumped Lithuania 4-0 on Tuesday evening in Spain's final warm-up match ahead of the Euro.

"The coaching staff of Spain's national team have decided 11 internationals initially called up for the match against Lithuania will remain part of the senior national team," it said.&nbsp;

"This group of internationals will join their teammates... within a parallel bubble, created in anticipation of the possible consequences that could result from the positives of Sergio Busquets and Diego Llorente."

The players are Alvaro Fernandez, Oscar Mingueza, Marc Cucurella, Bryan Gil, Juan Miranda, Gonzalo Villar, Alejandro Pozo, Brahim Diaz, Martin Zubimendi, Yeremy Pino and Javi Puado.&nbsp;

They join six players already drafted in by coach Luis Enrique as insurance against any more positives among his squad: Rodrigo Moreno, Pablo Fornals, Carlos Soler, Brais Mendez, Raul Albiol and Kepa Arrizabalaga.&nbsp;

The 17 reserves in their separate bubble will have no contact with the main Euro 2020 squad.&nbsp;

Players on the first-choice squad were all to be vaccinated against Covid-19 later on Wednesday, the Spanish sports ministry said.

Spain are also scheduled to play Poland and Slovakia in Group E, with all their group stage matches at the Cartuja stadium in Seville.

&nbsp;

Spain backup squad

Alvaro Fernandez (Huesca), Oscar Mingueza (Barcelona), Marc Cucurella (Getafe), Bryan Gil (Eibar), Juan Miranda (Betis), Gonzalo Villar (Roma/ITA), Alejandro Pozo (Eibar), Brahim Diaz (AC Milan/ITA), Martin Zubimendi (Real Sociedad), Yeremy Pino (Villarreal), Javi Puado (Espanyol), Rodrigo Moreno (Leeds/ENG), Pablo Fornals (West Ham/ENG), Carlos Soler (Valencia), Brais Mendez (Celta Vigo), Raul Albiol (Villarreal), Kepa Arrizabalaga (Chelsea/ENG)

Spain have set up a "parallel" squad of 17 reserves for Euro 2020 who may have to play if the Covid-19 infections among its players spread, team management said on Wednesday.

Spain have set up a "parallel" squad of 17 reserves for Euro 2020 who may have to play if the Covid-19 infections among its players spread, team management said on Wednesday. In a decision announced just hours after Spain defender Diego Llorente became the second player to test positive for Covid-19, the Spanish football federation (RFEF) announced in a statement posted on its website that it was setting up a "parallel bubble". The RFEF said it had called in 11 players to join six backups who were already acting as cover for the coronavirus-hit first-choice squad. Captain Sergio Busquets tested positive on Sunday, just a week before Spain open their Euro campaign on Monday, playing Sweden in Group E in the southern city of Seville. Sweden's Euro 2020 squad has also been hit by infections, with two players, star forward Dejan Kulusevski and midfielder Mattias Svanberg, testing positive, its federation said Tuesday. Since Busquests tested positive, Spain's entire Euro squad has been in isolation. The 11 newcomers were part of an Under-21 team that thumped Lithuania 4-0 on Tuesday evening in Spain's final warm-up match ahead of the Euro. "The coaching staff of Spain's national team have decided 11 internationals initially called up for the match against Lithuania will remain part of the senior national team," it said. "This group of internationals will join their teammates... within a parallel bubble, created in anticipation of the possible consequences that could result from the positives of Sergio Busquets and Diego Llorente." The players are Alvaro Fernandez, Oscar Mingueza, Marc Cucurella, Bryan Gil, Juan Miranda, Gonzalo Villar, Alejandro Pozo, Brahim Diaz, Martin Zubimendi, Yeremy Pino and Javi Puado. They join six players already drafted in by coach Luis Enrique as insurance against any more positives among his squad: Rodrigo Moreno, Pablo Fornals, Carlos Soler, Brais Mendez, Raul Albiol and Kepa Arrizabalaga. The 17 reserves in their separate bubble will have no contact with the main Euro 2020 squad. Players on the first-choice squad were all to be vaccinated against Covid-19 later on Wednesday, the Spanish sports ministry said. Spain are also scheduled to play Poland and Slovakia in Group E, with all their group stage matches at the Cartuja stadium in Seville. Spain backup squad Alvaro Fernandez (Huesca), Oscar Mingueza (Barcelona), Marc Cucurella (Getafe), Bryan Gil (Eibar), Juan Miranda (Betis), Gonzalo Villar (Roma/ITA), Alejandro Pozo (Eibar), Brahim Diaz (AC Milan/ITA), Martin Zubimendi (Real Sociedad), Yeremy Pino (Villarreal), Javi Puado (Espanyol), Rodrigo Moreno (Leeds/ENG), Pablo Fornals (West Ham/ENG), Carlos Soler (Valencia), Brais Mendez (Celta Vigo), Raul Albiol (Villarreal), Kepa Arrizabalaga (Chelsea/ENG)

Football: Spain sets up 'parallel' Euro 2020 team over virus worries

Maria Sakkari stunned defending champion Iga Swiatek to become the first Greek woman to reach a Grand Slam semi-final at the French Open on Wednesday as Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal closed in on another blockbuster clash.

World number 18 Sakkari triumphed 6-4, 6-4 over Polish eighth seed Swiatek and will face 33rd-ranked Barbora Krejcikova of the Czech Republic for a place in the final.

Thursday's other semi-final sees Russian 31st seed Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova tackle unseeded Tamara Zidansek of Slovenia.

For the first time in the Open era, the French Open semi-finals will feature four women who have never previously got this far at the Slams.

"I am speechless. It is a dream coming true. It's a very nice feeling and I could not have done it without my team and their support," said the 25-year-old Sakkari.

"We have a long way to go but we made a huge step today."

Swiatek had gone into the match on the back of 22 consecutive sets won at the French Open but her challenge was hobbled by a right thigh injury which needed taping during a medical timeout early in the second set.

Her defeat means that Justine Henin remains the last player to defend the women's title in Paris in 2007.

Greece will have two players in the semi-finals this year after Stefanos Tsitsipas made it to the last four on Tuesday.

Krejcikova knocked out American 17-year-old Coco Gauff 7-6 (8/6), 6-3 after saving five set points in the opener and then needing six match points to finish the job.

Gauff, the 24th seed and the youngest quarter-finalist at a major in 15 years, was undone by seven double faults and 41 unforced errors.

"I never really imagined I'd be standing here one day on this court, especially in singles, and being able to win," said Krejcikova, who had been so paralysed by fear before her last 16 victory over Sloane Stephens that she locked herself in a stadium office and wept.

Krejcikova, now on a 10-match winning streak, is having a busy week. She is also in the semi-finals of the women's doubles.

<h2>- Djokovic, Nadal on collision course&nbsp;</h2>

Later Wednesday, world number one Djokovic, the 2016 champion, and an 18-time Grand Slam title winner, faces Italian ninth seed Matteo Berrettini.

Victory would put the Serb into the semi-finals in Paris for the 11th time and only two wins away from becoming only the third man in history to win all four majors twice.

Djokovic had to dig deep against another Italian to guarantee his passage to a 15th quarter-final in Paris.

He was given a huge scare when 19-year-old Lorenzo Musetti raced into a two sets lead before running out of steam and quitting in the fifth.

"Berrettini has a big serve, big forehand. Two big weapons. He's in form," said Djokovic who defeated the Italian in their only previous meeting at the 2019 ATP Tour finals.

Djokovic will be into a 40th Grand Slam semi-final if he succeeds where Nadal could be waiting.

Berrettini has been solid on clay this year, finishing runner-up in Belgrade and Madrid but the highest-ranked player he has faced in Paris is world number 91 Kwon Soon-woo, his third round opponent.

He arrives fresher than Djokovic have been given a walkover into the last eight when Roger Federer withdrew from the tournament.

Nadal, who is bidding to capture a 14th Roland Garros and record-setting 21st major, is on a run of 35 consecutive winning sets at the French Open.

The reigning champion meets Argentine 10th seed Diego Schwartzman.

Nadal boasts a 10-1 record over Schwartzman, including a straight sets win in the semi-finals of last year's delayed French Open.

A victory for Nadal would put him into the last four at a Slam for the 35th time.

Meanwhile, the latest easing of Covid-19 restrictions in France from Wednesday and a later curfew from 11pm means a rise in the number of spectators at Roland Garros.

The final evening session of the tournament will have spectators for the first time with 5,000 fans able to watch the Djokovic-Berrettini quarter-final.&nbsp;

Maria Sakkari stunned defending champion Iga Swiatek to become the first Greek woman to reach a Grand Slam semi-final at the French Open on Wednesday as Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal closed in on another blockbuster clash.

Maria Sakkari stunned defending champion Iga Swiatek to become the first Greek woman to reach a Grand Slam semi-final at the French Open on Wednesday as Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal closed in on another blockbuster clash. World number 18 Sakkari triumphed 6-4, 6-4 over Polish eighth seed Swiatek and will face 33rd-ranked Barbora Krejcikova of the Czech Republic for a place in the final. Thursday's other semi-final sees Russian 31st seed Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova tackle unseeded Tamara Zidansek of Slovenia. For the first time in the Open era, the French Open semi-finals will feature four women who have never previously got this far at the Slams. "I am speechless. It is a dream coming true. It's a very nice feeling and I could not have done it without my team and their support," said the 25-year-old Sakkari. "We have a long way to go but we made a huge step today." Swiatek had gone into the match on the back of 22 consecutive sets won at the French Open but her challenge was hobbled by a right thigh injury which needed taping during a medical timeout early in the second set. Her defeat means that Justine Henin remains the last player to defend the women's title in Paris in 2007. Greece will have two players in the semi-finals this year after Stefanos Tsitsipas made it to the last four on Tuesday. Krejcikova knocked out American 17-year-old Coco Gauff 7-6 (8/6), 6-3 after saving five set points in the opener and then needing six match points to finish the job. Gauff, the 24th seed and the youngest quarter-finalist at a major in 15 years, was undone by seven double faults and 41 unforced errors. "I never really imagined I'd be standing here one day on this court, especially in singles, and being able to win," said Krejcikova, who had been so paralysed by fear before her last 16 victory over Sloane Stephens that she locked herself in a stadium office and wept. Krejcikova, now on a 10-match winning streak, is having a busy week. She is also in the semi-finals of the women's doubles. - Djokovic, Nadal on collision course Later Wednesday, world number one Djokovic, the 2016 champion, and an 18-time Grand Slam title winner, faces Italian ninth seed Matteo Berrettini. Victory would put the Serb into the semi-finals in Paris for the 11th time and only two wins away from becoming only the third man in history to win all four majors twice. Djokovic had to dig deep against another Italian to guarantee his passage to a 15th quarter-final in Paris. He was given a huge scare when 19-year-old Lorenzo Musetti raced into a two sets lead before running out of steam and quitting in the fifth. "Berrettini has a big serve, big forehand. Two big weapons. He's in form," said Djokovic who defeated the Italian in their only previous meeting at the 2019 ATP Tour finals. Djokovic will be into a 40th Grand Slam semi-final if he succeeds where Nadal could be waiting. Berrettini has been solid on clay this year, finishing runner-up in Belgrade and Madrid but the highest-ranked player he has faced in Paris is world number 91 Kwon Soon-woo, his third round opponent. He arrives fresher than Djokovic have been given a walkover into the last eight when Roger Federer withdrew from the tournament. Nadal, who is bidding to capture a 14th Roland Garros and record-setting 21st major, is on a run of 35 consecutive winning sets at the French Open. The reigning champion meets Argentine 10th seed Diego Schwartzman. Nadal boasts a 10-1 record over Schwartzman, including a straight sets win in the semi-finals of last year's delayed French Open. A victory for Nadal would put him into the last four at a Slam for the 35th time. Meanwhile, the latest easing of Covid-19 restrictions in France from Wednesday and a later curfew from 11pm means a rise in the number of spectators at Roland Garros. The final evening session of the tournament will have spectators for the first time with 5,000 fans able to watch the Djokovic-Berrettini quarter-final.

Tennis: Sakkari, Krejcikova into French Open last four as Djokovic, Nadal eye blockbuster

The Premier League on Wednesday agreed to a settlement with the ‘Big Six’ of the English top-flight on their involvement in the controversial European Super League. Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester United, Manchester City, Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur have agreed to pay a combined £22million for their involvement in the breakaway league.&nbsp;

Former England international Gary Neville has now branded the settlement between Premier League and the six clubs as an “embarrassment”. Notably, the six Premier League clubs had announced themselves as founding members of the ESL but quickly withdrew amid fan protests and opposition from the Premier League, UEFA, FIFA and British Government.

Neville took to social media platform Twitter to announce his disappointment at the sanctions as he wrote: “An absolute embarrassment!”

The Premier League conducted a probe into the foundation of ESL with its chief executive Richard Masters saying that the investigation would be conducted “efficiently, justly and appropriately”.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-lazio-hint-at-sarri-appointment-with-cigarette-emoji-390409" hreflang="en">Football: Lazio hint at Sarri appointment with cigarette emoji</a>

The fine paid by the six Premier League clubs will go to the development of children’s football and the grassroots game. Additionally, the clubs had earlier agreed to forego five per cent of any UEFA competition revenue for one season.&nbsp;

However, the nine clubs, who withdrew from ESL, face fines of £87 million each from UEFA in case of any future breakaway attempt.&nbsp; 
Meanwhile, three clubs who are still part of ESL are Real Madrid, Barcelona and Juventus, and a disciplinary proceeding have been opened against them by UEFA.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-25-and-a-half-cups-jose-mourinho-takes-a-dig-at-his-former-club-390408" hreflang="en">Football- '25 and a half cups': Jose Mourinho takes a dig at his former club</a>

Malcolm Clarke, the chair of the Football Supporters’ Association, said: “Whatever punishment the Premier League’s in-house process decides upon, it cannot guarantee that clubs won’t try similar again in the decades ahead.

The Premier League on Wednesday agreed to a settlement with the ‘Big Six’ of the English top-flight on their involvement in the controversial European Super League.

The Premier League on Wednesday agreed to a settlement with the ‘Big Six’ of the English top-flight on their involvement in the controversial European Super League. Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester United, Manchester City, Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur have agreed to pay a combined £22million for their involvement in the breakaway league. Former England international Gary Neville has now branded the settlement between Premier League and the six clubs as an “embarrassment”. Notably, the six Premier League clubs had announced themselves as founding members of the ESL but quickly withdrew amid fan protests and opposition from the Premier League, UEFA, FIFA and British Government. Neville took to social media platform Twitter to announce his disappointment at the sanctions as he wrote: “An absolute embarrassment!” The Premier League conducted a probe into the foundation of ESL with its chief executive Richard Masters saying that the investigation would be conducted “efficiently, justly and appropriately”. ALSO READ: Football: Lazio hint at Sarri appointment with cigarette emoji The fine paid by the six Premier League clubs will go to the development of children’s football and the grassroots game. Additionally, the clubs had earlier agreed to forego five per cent of any UEFA competition revenue for one season. However, the nine clubs, who withdrew from ESL, face fines of £87 million each from UEFA in case of any future breakaway attempt. Meanwhile, three clubs who are still part of ESL are Real Madrid, Barcelona and Juventus, and a disciplinary proceeding have been opened against them by UEFA. ALSO READ: Football- '25 and a half cups': Jose Mourinho takes a dig at his former club Malcolm Clarke, the chair of the Football Supporters’ Association, said: “Whatever punishment the Premier League’s in-house process decides upon, it cannot guarantee that clubs won’t try similar again in the decades ahead.

Football: 'Embarrassment' - Gary Neville unhappy with Premier League, 'Big Six' settlement over Super League

The six English clubs that signed for the controversial European Super League have reached a financial settlement with the Premier League. Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City would pay a combined £22 million ($31 million) for the initial involvement in the ESL.<o:p></o:p>

The six Premier League clubs had announced themselves as founder members of Super League in April but the project came tumbling down after widespread protest by the fans.<o:p></o:p>

On Wednesday, Sky News reported that an agreement has been reached between the six clubs and Premier League with clubs facing a £25 million fine and 30-point deduction if there are further attempts to break away.<o:p></o:p>

Reportedly, the money from the six clubs will go to grassroots and community projects.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-fans-booing-players-taking-a-knee-shows-racism-still-a-problem-henderson-390272" hreflang="en">Football: Fans booing players taking a knee shows racism still a problem: Henderson</a><o:p></o:p>

The Premier League conducted an investigation into Super League’s foundation with its chief executive Richard Masters saying, last month, that the probe will be conducted "efficiently, justly and appropriately".<o:p></o:p>

Earlier in May, UEFA had announced sanctions, including financial punishments, against nine of the 12 clubs behind the Super League. The nine clubs agreed to forego five per cent of their revenue from UEFA competitions for one season and pay a 15-million-euro ($18 million) donation to support grassroots' and youth football in Europe.<o:p></o:p>

However, three clubs -- Barcelona, Real Madrid and Juventus -- did not sign the declaration and are still of the view that Super League exists and will be conducted when the time is right.<o:p></o:p>

The six English clubs that signed for the controversial European Super League have reached a financial settlement with the Premier League. Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City would pay a combined £22 million ($31 million) for the initial involvement in the ESL.

The six English clubs that signed for the controversial European Super League have reached a financial settlement with the Premier League. Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City would pay a combined £22 million ($31 million) for the initial involvement in the ESL. The six Premier League clubs had announced themselves as founder members of Super League in April but the project came tumbling down after widespread protest by the fans. On Wednesday, Sky News reported that an agreement has been reached between the six clubs and Premier League with clubs facing a £25 million fine and 30-point deduction if there are further attempts to break away. Reportedly, the money from the six clubs will go to grassroots and community projects. ALSO READ: Football: Fans booing players taking a knee shows racism still a problem: Henderson The Premier League conducted an investigation into Super League’s foundation with its chief executive Richard Masters saying, last month, that the probe will be conducted "efficiently, justly and appropriately". Earlier in May, UEFA had announced sanctions, including financial punishments, against nine of the 12 clubs behind the Super League. The nine clubs agreed to forego five per cent of their revenue from UEFA competitions for one season and pay a 15-million-euro ($18 million) donation to support grassroots' and youth football in Europe. However, three clubs -- Barcelona, Real Madrid and Juventus -- did not sign the declaration and are still of the view that Super League exists and will be conducted when the time is right.

Football: Premier League's six clubs reach settlement over Super League - Report

The postponed season of Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2021 resumes on Wednesday with Lahore Qalandars taking on Islamabad United in the first match of the resumed season. <o:p></o:p>

Lahore Qalandars, Islamabad United, Karachi Kings and Peshawar Zalmi are all locked at six points each. However, Kinds and Zalmi have both played one match more than the others. The resumed PSL 2021 will be played in Abu Dhabi.<o:p></o:p>

While many star names have pulled out of PSL 2021 due to the COVID-19 situation and bio-bubble fatigue, many stars including Usman Khawaja, Faf du Plessis, Martin Guptill, Rashid Khan, Shimron Hetmyer among others will feature in the T20 tournament.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-rankings-grand-entry-for-devon-conway-in-mens-test-player-list-390324" hreflang="en">ICC Rankings: Grand entry for Devon Conway in Men's Test Player list</a>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Which channel will telecast live matches of PSL 2021 in India?<o:p></o:p></h2>

Sony Pictures Sports Network (Sony Liv) will telecast PSL 2021 matches in India.<o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">PSL 2021 in Abu Dhabi - Full Schedule:<o:p></o:p></h2>

June 9, Wednesday<o:p></o:p>

Lahore Qalandars vs Islamabad United at 9:30 PM<o:p></o:p>

June 10, Thursday<o:p></o:p>

Multan Sultans vs Karachi Kings at 6:30 PM<o:p></o:p>

Peshawar Zalmi vs Lahore Qalandars at 11:30 PM<o:p></o:p>

June 11, Friday<o:p></o:p>

Islamabad United v Quetta Gladiators at 9:30 PM<o:p></o:p>

June 12, Saturday<o:p></o:p>

Quetta Gladiators v Peshawar Zalmi at 9:30 PM<o:p></o:p>

June 13, Sunday<o:p></o:p>

Islamabad United vs Lahore Qalandars at 6:30 PM<o:p></o:p>

Multan Sultans vs Peshawar Zalmi at 11:30 PM<o:p></o:p>

June 14, Monday<o:p></o:p>

Islamabad United vs Karachi Kings at 9:30 PM<o:p></o:p>

June 15, Tuesday<o:p></o:p>

Quetta Gladiators vs Lahore Qalandars at 6:30 PM<o:p></o:p>

Peshawar Zalmi vs Karachi Kings at 11:30 PM<o:p></o:p>

June 16, Wednesday<o:p></o:p>

Multan Sultans vs Quetta Gladiators at 9:30 PM<o:p></o:p>

June 17, Thursday<o:p></o:p>

Islamabad United vs Peshawar Zalmi at 6:30 PM<o:p></o:p>

Karachi Kings vs Lahore Qalandars at 11:30 PM<o:p></o:p>

June 18, Friday<o:p></o:p>

Multan Sultans vs Lahore Qalandars at 9:30 PM<o:p></o:p>

June 19, Saturday<o:p></o:p>

Quetta Gladiators vs Karachi Kings at 6:30 PM<o:p></o:p>

Multan Sultans vs Islamabad United at 11:30 PM<o:p></o:p>

June 21, Monday<o:p></o:p>

Qualifier (1 vs 2) at 6:30 PM<o:p></o:p>

Eliminator 1 (3 vs 4) at 11:30 PM<o:p></o:p>

June 22, Tuesday<o:p></o:p>

Eliminator 2 (loser of Qualifier vs winner of Eliminator 1) at 9:30 PM<o:p></o:p>

June 24, Thursday<o:p></o:p>

Final (winner of Qualifier vs winner of Eliminator 2) at 9:30 PM<o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">PSL 2021 – Complete squad list:<o:p></o:p></h2>

Islamabad United: Shadab Khan (c), Ahmed Saifi Abdullah, Ali Khan, Akif Javed, Asif Ali, Brandon King, Colin Munro, Fawad Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Hasan Ali, Hussain Talat, Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Mohammad Akhlaq, Musa Khan, Rohail Nazir, Umar Amin, Usman Khawaja, Zafar Gohar and Zeeshan Zameer<o:p></o:p>

Karachi Kings: Imad Wasim (c), Abbas Afridi, Amir Yamin, Arshad Iqbal, Babar Azam, Chadwick Walton, Danish Aziz, Martin Guptill, Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Ilyas, Mohammad Haris, Thisara Perera, Najeebullah Zadran, Noor Ahmed, Qasim Akram, Sharjeel Khan, Waqas Maqsood and Zeeshan Malik<o:p></o:p>

Lahore Qalandars: Sohail Akhtar (c), Ahmed Danyal, Ben Dunk, Callum Ferguson, Dilbar Hussain, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, James Faulkner, Maaz Khan, Mohammad Faizan, Mohammad Hafeez, Rashid Khan, Salman Ali Agha, Seekuge Prasana, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Sultan Ahmed, Tim David, Zaid Alam and Zeeshan Ashraf<o:p></o:p>

Multan Sultans: Mohammad Rizwan (c), Asif Afridi, Hammad Azam, Imran Tahir, Imran Khan Snr, Johnson Charles, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Umar, Blessing Muzarabani, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Rilee Rossouw, Shahnawaz Dhani, Shan Masood, Shimron Hetmyer (partially available), Sohaib Maqsood, Sohaibullah, Sohail Khan, Sohail Tanvir, Usman Qadir and Muhammad Waseem<o:p></o:p>

Peshawar Zalmi: Wahab Riaz (c), Abrar Ahmed, Amad Butt, Bismillah Khan, David Miller (partially available), Fabian Allen (partially available), Fidel Edwards (partially available), Haider Ali, Hazratullah Zazai, Imam-ul-Haq, Kamran Akmal, Mohammad Amir Khan, Mohammad Irfan Snr, Mohammad Imran Jnr, Mohammad Imran Randhawa, Rovman Powell, Sherfane Rutherford, Shoaib Malik, Umaid Asif and Waqar Salamkheil<o:p></o:p>

Quetta Gladiators: Sarfaraz Ahmed (c), Abdul Nasir, Andre Russell (partially available), Arish Ali Khan, Azam Khan, Cameron Delport, Faf du Plessis, Hassan Khan, Jack Wildermuth, Jake Weatherald, Khurram Shehzad, Mohammad Hasnain, Mohammad Nawaz, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Usman Khan, Usman Shinwari, Zahid Mahmood and Zahir Khan<o:p></o:p>

The postponed season of Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2021 resumes on Wednesday with Lahore Qalandars taking on Islamabad United in the first match of the resumed season.

The postponed season of Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2021 resumes on Wednesday with Lahore Qalandars taking on Islamabad United in the first match of the resumed season. Lahore Qalandars, Islamabad United, Karachi Kings and Peshawar Zalmi are all locked at six points each. However, Kinds and Zalmi have both played one match more than the others. The resumed PSL 2021 will be played in Abu Dhabi. While many star names have pulled out of PSL 2021 due to the COVID-19 situation and bio-bubble fatigue, many stars including Usman Khawaja, Faf du Plessis, Martin Guptill, Rashid Khan, Shimron Hetmyer among others will feature in the T20 tournament. ALSO READ: ICC Rankings: Grand entry for Devon Conway in Men's Test Player list Which channel will telecast live matches of PSL 2021 in India? Sony Pictures Sports Network (Sony Liv) will telecast PSL 2021 matches in India. PSL 2021 in Abu Dhabi - Full Schedule: June 9, Wednesday Lahore Qalandars vs Islamabad United at 9:30 PM June 10, Thursday Multan Sultans vs Karachi Kings at 6:30 PM Peshawar Zalmi vs Lahore Qalandars at 11:30 PM June 11, Friday Islamabad United v Quetta Gladiators at 9:30 PM June 12, Saturday Quetta Gladiators v Peshawar Zalmi at 9:30 PM June 13, Sunday Islamabad United vs Lahore Qalandars at 6:30 PM Multan Sultans vs Peshawar Zalmi at 11:30 PM June 14, Monday Islamabad United vs Karachi Kings at 9:30 PM June 15, Tuesday Quetta Gladiators vs Lahore Qalandars at 6:30 PM Peshawar Zalmi vs Karachi Kings at 11:30 PM June 16, Wednesday Multan Sultans vs Quetta Gladiators at 9:30 PM June 17, Thursday Islamabad United vs Peshawar Zalmi at 6:30 PM Karachi Kings vs Lahore Qalandars at 11:30 PM June 18, Friday Multan Sultans vs Lahore Qalandars at 9:30 PM June 19, Saturday Quetta Gladiators vs Karachi Kings at 6:30 PM Multan Sultans vs Islamabad United at 11:30 PM June 21, Monday Qualifier (1 vs 2) at 6:30 PM Eliminator 1 (3 vs 4) at 11:30 PM June 22, Tuesday Eliminator 2 (loser of Qualifier vs winner of Eliminator 1) at 9:30 PM June 24, Thursday Final (winner of Qualifier vs winner of Eliminator 2) at 9:30 PM PSL 2021 – Complete squad list: Islamabad United: Shadab Khan (c), Ahmed Saifi Abdullah, Ali Khan, Akif Javed, Asif Ali, Brandon King, Colin Munro, Fawad Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Hasan Ali, Hussain Talat, Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Mohammad Akhlaq, Musa Khan, Rohail Nazir, Umar Amin, Usman Khawaja, Zafar Gohar and Zeeshan Zameer Karachi Kings: Imad Wasim (c), Abbas Afridi, Amir Yamin, Arshad Iqbal, Babar Azam, Chadwick Walton, Danish Aziz, Martin Guptill, Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Ilyas, Mohammad Haris, Thisara Perera, Najeebullah Zadran, Noor Ahmed, Qasim Akram, Sharjeel Khan, Waqas Maqsood and Zeeshan Malik Lahore Qalandars: Sohail Akhtar (c), Ahmed Danyal, Ben Dunk, Callum Ferguson, Dilbar Hussain, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, James Faulkner, Maaz Khan, Mohammad Faizan, Mohammad Hafeez, Rashid Khan, Salman Ali Agha, Seekuge Prasana, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Sultan Ahmed, Tim David, Zaid Alam and Zeeshan Ashraf Multan Sultans: Mohammad Rizwan (c), Asif Afridi, Hammad Azam, Imran Tahir, Imran Khan Snr, Johnson Charles, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Umar, Blessing Muzarabani, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Rilee Rossouw, Shahnawaz Dhani, Shan Masood, Shimron Hetmyer (partially available), Sohaib Maqsood, Sohaibullah, Sohail Khan, Sohail Tanvir, Usman Qadir and Muhammad Waseem Peshawar Zalmi: Wahab Riaz (c), Abrar Ahmed, Amad Butt, Bismillah Khan, David Miller (partially available), Fabian Allen (partially available), Fidel Edwards (partially available), Haider Ali, Hazratullah Zazai, Imam-ul-Haq, Kamran Akmal, Mohammad Amir Khan, Mohammad Irfan Snr, Mohammad Imran Jnr, Mohammad Imran Randhawa, Rovman Powell, Sherfane Rutherford, Shoaib Malik, Umaid Asif and Waqar Salamkheil Quetta Gladiators: Sarfaraz Ahmed (c), Abdul Nasir, Andre Russell (partially available), Arish Ali Khan, Azam Khan, Cameron Delport, Faf du Plessis, Hassan Khan, Jack Wildermuth, Jake Weatherald, Khurram Shehzad, Mohammad Hasnain, Mohammad Nawaz, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Usman Khan, Usman Shinwari, Zahid Mahmood and Zahir Khan

Pakistan Super League 2021: Complete schedule, match timings, full squad list and live streaming details

New Zealand captain Kane Williamson will miss the second Test against England at the Edgbaston in Birmingham, starting Thursday, due to a left elbow injury. <o:p></o:p>

With the final of World Test Championship (WTC) approaching, against India, Williamson has decided to rest his left elbow. The New Zealand skipper has been managing the left-elbow injury since missing matches in March with head coach Gary Stead saying that the irritated left elbow is still troubling the Black Caps talisman. <o:p></o:p>

Tom Latham will lead New Zealand in Williamson’s absence while Will Young has been confirmed in the playing XI for the second Test against England.<o:p></o:p>

Furthermore, Williamson has had an injection in his elbow to get relieved from the pain. However, the latest setback puts a massive question mark on his fitness ahead of the much-awaited WTC final. New Zealand, meanwhile, are confident that Williamson will be ready for the summit clash against India, starting June 18 in Southampton.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-new-zealand-set-to-rest-their-star-pacers-for-wtc-finals-390367" hreflang="en">Cricket: New Zealand set to rest their star pacers for WTC Finals</a><o:p></o:p>

“It’s not an easy decision for Kane to have to miss a Test, but we think it’s the right one,” Stead said.<o:p></o:p>

“He’s had an injection in his elbow to relieve the irritation he’s been experiencing when he bats and a period of rest and rehabilitation will help maximise his recovery.<o:p></o:p>

“The decision has been made very much with the ICC World Test Championship Final at Southampton in mind and we are confident he will be ready for that match starting on June 18.”<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

New Zealand captain Kane Williamson will miss the second Test against England at the Edgbaston in Birmingham, starting Thursday, due to a left elbow injury. With the final of World Test Championship (WTC) approaching, against India, Williamson has decided to rest his left elbow.

New Zealand captain Kane Williamson will miss the second Test against England at the Edgbaston in Birmingham, starting Thursday, due to a left elbow injury. With the final of World Test Championship (WTC) approaching, against India, Williamson has decided to rest his left elbow. The New Zealand skipper has been managing the left-elbow injury since missing matches in March with head coach Gary Stead saying that the irritated left elbow is still troubling the Black Caps talisman. Tom Latham will lead New Zealand in Williamson’s absence while Will Young has been confirmed in the playing XI for the second Test against England. Furthermore, Williamson has had an injection in his elbow to get relieved from the pain. However, the latest setback puts a massive question mark on his fitness ahead of the much-awaited WTC final. New Zealand, meanwhile, are confident that Williamson will be ready for the summit clash against India, starting June 18 in Southampton. ALSO READ: Cricket: New Zealand set to rest their star pacers for WTC Finals “It’s not an easy decision for Kane to have to miss a Test, but we think it’s the right one,” Stead said. “He’s had an injection in his elbow to relieve the irritation he’s been experiencing when he bats and a period of rest and rehabilitation will help maximise his recovery. “The decision has been made very much with the ICC World Test Championship Final at Southampton in mind and we are confident he will be ready for that match starting on June 18.”

Cricket: Kane Williamson ruled out of 2nd Test vs England due to elbow injury, Tom Latham to lead New Zealand

England Women on Wednesday announced a 17-strong squad for the Test match against India, starting June 16. There is a first international call-up for Central Sparks seamer Emily Arlott, fresh off a hat-trick in the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy at the weekend, while South East Stars captain Tash Farrant is also included.

It’s expected the squad will be trimmed ahead of the Test match to allow non-selected players to play in the next round of the RHF Trophy.

It has also been confirmed that Nat Sciver will become vice-captain across all forms of international cricket.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-ecb-to-take-appropriate-action-as-several-offensive-tweets-by-england-players-resurface-390321" hreflang="en">Cricket: ECB to take 'appropriate action' as several offensive tweets by England players resurface</a>

<h2>England Women squad for one-off Test versus India Women:</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Heather Knight (Western Storm, cap)</li>
	<li>Emily Arlott (Central Sparks)</li>
	<li>Tammy Beaumont (Lightning)</li>
	<li>Katherine Brunt (Northern Diamonds)</li>
	<li>Kate Cross (Thunder)</li>
	<li>Freya Davies (South East Stars)</li>
	<li>Sophia Dunkley (South East Stars)</li>
	<li>Sophie Ecclestone (Thunder)</li>
	<li>Georgia Elwiss (Southern Vipers)</li>
	<li>Tash Farrant (South East Stars)</li>
	<li>Sarah Glenn (Central Sparks)</li>
	<li>Amy Jones (Central Sparks)</li>
	<li>Nat Sciver (Northern Diamonds, vice cap)</li>
	<li>Anya Shrubsole (Western Storm)</li>
	<li>Mady Villiers (Sunrisers)</li>
	<li>Fran Wilson (Sunrisers)</li>
	<li>Lauren Winfield-Hill (Northern Diamonds)</li>
</ul>

Head Coach Lisa Keightley said: “It’s been hard to pick a squad given the balance of needing cover in a COVID world while wanting to give players as much chance as possible to play cricket.

“We want players to have opportunities out in the middle so we’re looking to reduce our numbers slightly ahead of the Test to give the non-selected players that chance.

“I’m really excited by the summer ahead. We’ve been working really hard across the last 10 weeks, India are a strong side and it’s the beginning of a two-year journey for us that takes in two ICC World Cups, an Ashes and the Commonwealth Games.”&nbsp;

England Women on Wednesday announced a 17-strong squad for the Test match against India, starting June 16. There is a first international call-up for Central Sparks seamer Emily Arlott, fresh off a hat-trick in the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy at the weekend, while South East Stars captain Tash Farrant is also included.

England Women on Wednesday announced a 17-strong squad for the Test match against India, starting June 16. There is a first international call-up for Central Sparks seamer Emily Arlott, fresh off a hat-trick in the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy at the weekend, while South East Stars captain Tash Farrant is also included. It’s expected the squad will be trimmed ahead of the Test match to allow non-selected players to play in the next round of the RHF Trophy. It has also been confirmed that Nat Sciver will become vice-captain across all forms of international cricket. ALSO READ: Cricket: ECB to take 'appropriate action' as several offensive tweets by England players resurface England Women squad for one-off Test versus India Women: Heather Knight (Western Storm, cap) Emily Arlott (Central Sparks) Tammy Beaumont (Lightning) Katherine Brunt (Northern Diamonds) Kate Cross (Thunder) Freya Davies (South East Stars) Sophia Dunkley (South East Stars) Sophie Ecclestone (Thunder) Georgia Elwiss (Southern Vipers) Tash Farrant (South East Stars) Sarah Glenn (Central Sparks) Amy Jones (Central Sparks) Nat Sciver (Northern Diamonds, vice cap) Anya Shrubsole (Western Storm) Mady Villiers (Sunrisers) Fran Wilson (Sunrisers) Lauren Winfield-Hill (Northern Diamonds) Head Coach Lisa Keightley said: “It’s been hard to pick a squad given the balance of needing cover in a COVID world while wanting to give players as much chance as possible to play cricket. “We want players to have opportunities out in the middle so we’re looking to reduce our numbers slightly ahead of the Test to give the non-selected players that chance. “I’m really excited by the summer ahead. We’ve been working really hard across the last 10 weeks, India are a strong side and it’s the beginning of a two-year journey for us that takes in two ICC World Cups, an Ashes and the Commonwealth Games.”

Cricket: England Women announce squad for one-off Test vs India Women

Opener Devon Conway has entered the ICC Men’s Test Player Rankings in 77th position with a record 447 rating points, the highest for a New Zealand batsman on debut and the third-highest ever on debut.<o:p></o:p>

The 29-year-old left-hander, who scored 200 and 23 in the drawn first Test against England at Lord’s, entered the list at two points less than RE Foster of England and one less than Kyle Mayers of the West Indies.<o:p></o:p>

Foster had slammed 287 on debut against Australia in Sydney in 1903 for the record of 449 rating points while Mayers had scored 40 and 210 not out in the first Test against Bangladesh in Chittagong in February this year to log 448 points. <o:p></o:p>

Conway, who is currently ranked fourth in T20Is and 121st in ODIs, has bettered the New Zealand mark of 440 rating points on Test debut by Lou Vincent against Australia at Perth in 2001.<o:p></o:p>

Fast bowler Tim Southee is another one to make it big in the latest update to the men’s weekly rankings, his second six-wicket haul at Lord’s pushing him to a career-best third position while achieving the third-best rating points by a New Zealand bowler. He has gone up to 838 points, with only Richard Hadlee (909) and Neil Wagner (859) having achieved higher bowling points.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-ecb-to-take-appropriate-action-as-several-offensive-tweets-by-england-players-resurface-390321" hreflang="en">Cricket: ECB to take 'appropriate action' as several offensive tweets by England players resurface</a><o:p></o:p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Tim Southee’s seven wickets in the first Test against England has pushed him to No.3 in the <a href="https://twitter.com/MRFWorldwide?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MRFWorldwide</a> ICC Test Rankings for bowling 📈 <a href="https://t.co/9nd2ekGiPS">pic.twitter.com/9nd2ekGiPS</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1402541916919631872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Among the England players, Rory Burns has moved up 21 places to 22nd position after his century in the first innings while Ollie Pope (up seven places to 52nd) and Dom Sibley (up 17 places to 55th) have also advanced among batsmen. <o:p></o:p>

Mark Wood, who finished with four wickets in the match, has progressed from 48th to 42nd position and captain Joe Root is up to 82nd among bowlers. Debutant Ollie Robinson has entered the batting list in 91st position and the bowling list in 69th place.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-we-were-all-bloody-indians-to-them-since-ipl-they-are-licking-our-boots-farokh-engineer-reacts-to-englands-racism-row-390309" hreflang="en">Cricket: 'We were all bloody Indians to them, since IPL they are licking our boots' - Farokh Engineer reacts to England's racism row</a><o:p></o:p>

In the ICC Men’s ODI Player Rankings, Max O’Dowd of the Netherlands has moved up 42 places to 107th position after scoring 95 runs in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Super League series against Ireland. Henry Tector of Ireland is up 58 slots to 128th position with 88 runs. In the bowling list, Simi Singh (up 16 places to 51st) and Craig Young (up 24 places to 82nd) are the main gainers.<o:p></o:p>

The three-match series, which the Netherlands won 2-1, saw both teams move level at 20 points in the CWC Super League Standings powered by MRF Tyres. They are currently ranked ninth and 10th in the list led by Bangladesh with 50 points.<o:p></o:p>

Opener Devon Conway has entered the ICC Men’s Test Player Rankings in 77th position with a record 447 rating points, the highest for a New Zealand batsman on debut and the third-highest ever on debut.

Opener Devon Conway has entered the ICC Men’s Test Player Rankings in 77th position with a record 447 rating points, the highest for a New Zealand batsman on debut and the third-highest ever on debut. The 29-year-old left-hander, who scored 200 and 23 in the drawn first Test against England at Lord’s, entered the list at two points less than RE Foster of England and one less than Kyle Mayers of the West Indies. Foster had slammed 287 on debut against Australia in Sydney in 1903 for the record of 449 rating points while Mayers had scored 40 and 210 not out in the first Test against Bangladesh in Chittagong in February this year to log 448 points. Conway, who is currently ranked fourth in T20Is and 121st in ODIs, has bettered the New Zealand mark of 440 rating points on Test debut by Lou Vincent against Australia at Perth in 2001. Fast bowler Tim Southee is another one to make it big in the latest update to the men’s weekly rankings, his second six-wicket haul at Lord’s pushing him to a career-best third position while achieving the third-best rating points by a New Zealand bowler. He has gone up to 838 points, with only Richard Hadlee (909) and Neil Wagner (859) having achieved higher bowling points. ALSO READ: Cricket: ECB to take 'appropriate action' as several offensive tweets by England players resurface Tim Southee’s seven wickets in the first Test against England has pushed him to No.3 in the @MRFWorldwide ICC Test Rankings for bowling 📈 pic.twitter.com/9nd2ekGiPS — ICC (@ICC) June 9, 2021 × Among the England players, Rory Burns has moved up 21 places to 22nd position after his century in the first innings while Ollie Pope (up seven places to 52nd) and Dom Sibley (up 17 places to 55th) have also advanced among batsmen. Mark Wood, who finished with four wickets in the match, has progressed from 48th to 42nd position and captain Joe Root is up to 82nd among bowlers. Debutant Ollie Robinson has entered the batting list in 91st position and the bowling list in 69th place. ALSO READ: Cricket: 'We were all bloody Indians to them, since IPL they are licking our boots' - Farokh Engineer reacts to England's racism row In the ICC Men’s ODI Player Rankings, Max O’Dowd of the Netherlands has moved up 42 places to 107th position after scoring 95 runs in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Super League series against Ireland. Henry Tector of Ireland is up 58 slots to 128th position with 88 runs. In the bowling list, Simi Singh (up 16 places to 51st) and Craig Young (up 24 places to 82nd) are the main gainers. The three-match series, which the Netherlands won 2-1, saw both teams move level at 20 points in the CWC Super League Standings powered by MRF Tyres. They are currently ranked ninth and 10th in the list led by Bangladesh with 50 points.

ICC Rankings: Grand entry for Devon Conway in Men's Test Player list

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has confirmed that it is investigating “a number of historical social media posts by other individuals” within the England cricket team set-up. The development comes after ECB was made aware of the controversial tweets by some big-name players in the England team. <o:p></o:p>

Pacer Ollie Robinson was suspended from international cricket by ECB, hence ruling him out of the second Test against New Zealand at Edgbaston, after historical racist and sexist tweets resurfaced during his Test debut at Lord’s.<o:p></o:p>

An ECB spokesperson said: "Since we were alerted to offensive tweets last week, a number of historical social media posts by other individuals have been questioned publicly as well.<o:p></o:p>

"There is no place for discrimination in our sport, and we are committed to taking relevant and appropriate action where required.<o:p></o:p>

"Given the concerns which have been raised are clearly now broader than a single case, the ECB Board will discuss how we deal with issues over historical social media material in a timely and appropriate manner.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-we-were-all-bloody-indians-to-them-since-ipl-they-are-licking-our-boots-farokh-engineer-reacts-to-englands-racism-row-390309" hreflang="en">Cricket: 'We were all bloody Indians to them, since IPL they are licking our boots' - Farokh Engineer reacts to England's racism row</a><o:p></o:p>

"Each case will be considered on an individual basis, looking at all the facts. We will assess cases with the ECB Board before making further statements."<o:p></o:p>

Whereas, veteran England pacer James Anderson has said that the English squad has unanimously accepted Robinson’s apology for posting offensive tweets, dating back to 2012-13.<o:p></o:p>

"The language and things talked about are obviously not acceptable," said Anderson.<o:p></o:p>

"He stood up in front of the group and apologised, and you could see how sincere he was and how upset he was.<o:p></o:p>

"As a group, we appreciate that he's a different person now. He has done a lot of maturing and growing since then and he's got the full support of the team."<o:p></o:p>

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has confirmed that it is investigating “a number of historical social media posts by other individuals” within the England cricket team set-up.

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has confirmed that it is investigating “a number of historical social media posts by other individuals” within the England cricket team set-up. The development comes after ECB was made aware of the controversial tweets by some big-name players in the England team. Pacer Ollie Robinson was suspended from international cricket by ECB, hence ruling him out of the second Test against New Zealand at Edgbaston, after historical racist and sexist tweets resurfaced during his Test debut at Lord’s. An ECB spokesperson said: "Since we were alerted to offensive tweets last week, a number of historical social media posts by other individuals have been questioned publicly as well. "There is no place for discrimination in our sport, and we are committed to taking relevant and appropriate action where required. "Given the concerns which have been raised are clearly now broader than a single case, the ECB Board will discuss how we deal with issues over historical social media material in a timely and appropriate manner. ALSO READ: Cricket: 'We were all bloody Indians to them, since IPL they are licking our boots' - Farokh Engineer reacts to England's racism row "Each case will be considered on an individual basis, looking at all the facts. We will assess cases with the ECB Board before making further statements." Whereas, veteran England pacer James Anderson has said that the English squad has unanimously accepted Robinson’s apology for posting offensive tweets, dating back to 2012-13. "The language and things talked about are obviously not acceptable," said Anderson. "He stood up in front of the group and apologised, and you could see how sincere he was and how upset he was. "As a group, we appreciate that he's a different person now. He has done a lot of maturing and growing since then and he's got the full support of the team."

Cricket: ECB to take 'appropriate action' as several offensive tweets by England players resurface

Former India wicket-keeper Farokh Engineer has expressed his shock after England PM Boris Johnson disagreed with Ollie Robinson’s suspension from international cricket by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) over racist and sexist historical tweets. Engineer further revealed how he faced racism during his time with Lancashire in County cricket as he said that it is due to the lucrative Indian Premier League (IPL) that many overseas cricketers have mellowed down their tone towards Indians. <o:p></o:p>

“I am reading in the papers about Boris Johnson. I think it is absolute rubbish for a prime minister to lend his name to such a statement. Punish the fellow (Robinson). I think the ECB has done absolutely the right thing by suspending him. He has committed an error of judgement, he should pay for it. It will be a deterrent,” Engineer told The Indian Express.<o:p></o:p>

The 27-year-old English pacer Ollie Robinson had made racist and sexist remarks on Twitter when he was 18-year-old. While many have supported Robinson’s heartfelt apology during the Day 1 of the first Test between England and New Zealand when the controversial tweets resurfaced again on the social media platform, Engineer said that 18 is an age at which an individual is responsible. <o:p></o:p>

Engineer further revealed that he was also subjected to racist remarks when he first came to play County cricket with Lancashire back in the day.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-too-hard-on-him-michael-holding-reacts-to-ecb-suspending-ollie-robinson-390268" hreflang="en">Cricket: 'Too hard on him': Michael Holding reacts to ECB suspending Ollie Robinson</a><o:p></o:p>

“It is a real shame when you say he was a youngster who was 18 (when he tweeted). It is an age at which an individual is responsible. If they (cricketers) can get away with it, then things would be worse. People will make all sorts of comments against us (Asians). It has to be nipped in the bud. To talk about Asians like that in such a context or make other comments reflects on the upbringing,” Engineer, who played 46 Tests for India, says.<o:p></o:p>

“I am not saying ban them for life, but certainly give them a hefty fine where it hurts their wallet and suspend them from Test cricket for a series or from First-Class cricket for a while. Be strict about it.”<o:p></o:p>

“When I first came into county cricket, there were question marks like ‘he is from India?’ I did face it (racist comments) once or twice when I joined Lancashire. Nothing very personal, but just because I was from India. It had to do with making fun of my accent. I think my English is better than most Englishmen really, so soon they realised that you don’t mess around with Farokh Engineer. They got the message. I gave it back to them straightaway. Not only that, I proved myself with my bat and gloves as well. I was simply proud I put India on the map as an ambassador for the country.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-icc-announces-match-officials-for-wtc-final-richard-illingworth-michael-gough-named-on-field-umpires-390182" hreflang="en">Cricket: ICC announces match officials for WTC final; Richard Illingworth, Michael Gough named on-field umpires</a><o:p></o:p>

Engineer, in a recent podcast with Cyrus Broacha, had mentioned how Boycott was often heard saying ‘bloody Indians’. But the former India international said that the IPL has made foreign players cosy up to the Indians just because it pays life-changing amount to them. <o:p></o:p>

“Boycott’s comment… well it was a common thing. I don’t want to make an issue about only Boycott. The others, even if they didn’t say it, they thought of it. He was not the only one, there were a few others, including Australians as well.”<o:p></o:p>

“We were all ‘bloody Indians’ to them till a few years ago. Now once the IPL started, they are all licking our backsides. It amazes me that just because of the money, they are licking our boots now. But people like me know what their true colours were initially. Now they suddenly changed their tunes. India is a good country to go for a few months and do some television work, if not play and make money.”<o:p></o:p>

Former India wicket-keeper Farokh Engineer has expressed his shock after England PM Boris Johnson disagreed with Ollie Robinson’s suspension from international cricket by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) over racist and sexist historical tweets.

Former India wicket-keeper Farokh Engineer has expressed his shock after England PM Boris Johnson disagreed with Ollie Robinson’s suspension from international cricket by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) over racist and sexist historical tweets. Engineer further revealed how he faced racism during his time with Lancashire in County cricket as he said that it is due to the lucrative Indian Premier League (IPL) that many overseas cricketers have mellowed down their tone towards Indians. “I am reading in the papers about Boris Johnson. I think it is absolute rubbish for a prime minister to lend his name to such a statement. Punish the fellow (Robinson). I think the ECB has done absolutely the right thing by suspending him. He has committed an error of judgement, he should pay for it. It will be a deterrent,” Engineer told The Indian Express. The 27-year-old English pacer Ollie Robinson had made racist and sexist remarks on Twitter when he was 18-year-old. While many have supported Robinson’s heartfelt apology during the Day 1 of the first Test between England and New Zealand when the controversial tweets resurfaced again on the social media platform, Engineer said that 18 is an age at which an individual is responsible. Engineer further revealed that he was also subjected to racist remarks when he first came to play County cricket with Lancashire back in the day. ALSO READ: Cricket: 'Too hard on him': Michael Holding reacts to ECB suspending Ollie Robinson “It is a real shame when you say he was a youngster who was 18 (when he tweeted). It is an age at which an individual is responsible. If they (cricketers) can get away with it, then things would be worse. People will make all sorts of comments against us (Asians). It has to be nipped in the bud. To talk about Asians like that in such a context or make other comments reflects on the upbringing,” Engineer, who played 46 Tests for India, says. “I am not saying ban them for life, but certainly give them a hefty fine where it hurts their wallet and suspend them from Test cricket for a series or from First-Class cricket for a while. Be strict about it.” “When I first came into county cricket, there were question marks like ‘he is from India?’ I did face it (racist comments) once or twice when I joined Lancashire. Nothing very personal, but just because I was from India. It had to do with making fun of my accent. I think my English is better than most Englishmen really, so soon they realised that you don’t mess around with Farokh Engineer. They got the message. I gave it back to them straightaway. Not only that, I proved myself with my bat and gloves as well. I was simply proud I put India on the map as an ambassador for the country.” ALSO READ: Cricket: ICC announces match officials for WTC final; Richard Illingworth, Michael Gough named on-field umpires Engineer, in a recent podcast with Cyrus Broacha, had mentioned how Boycott was often heard saying ‘bloody Indians’. But the former India international said that the IPL has made foreign players cosy up to the Indians just because it pays life-changing amount to them. “Boycott’s comment… well it was a common thing. I don’t want to make an issue about only Boycott. The others, even if they didn’t say it, they thought of it. He was not the only one, there were a few others, including Australians as well.” “We were all ‘bloody Indians’ to them till a few years ago. Now once the IPL started, they are all licking our backsides. It amazes me that just because of the money, they are licking our boots now. But people like me know what their true colours were initially. Now they suddenly changed their tunes. India is a good country to go for a few months and do some television work, if not play and make money.”

Cricket: 'We were all bloody Indians to them, since IPL they are licking our boots' - Farokh Engineer reacts to England's racism row

Russian health authorities said Tuesday that coronavirus cases in Saint Petersburg were on the rise with days to go before the city co-hosts the postponed Euro 2020 football championship.&nbsp;

Authorities in Russia's second city have set up additional hospital beds while assuring the spike in cases was due to a "cyclical" phenomenon.&nbsp;

For the past month, the city recorded an average of 700 cases a day,&nbsp;but the number of daily infections has exceeded 800 for the last two weeks, according to a government tally.&nbsp;

The Health Committee of Russia's second city said Tuesday that coronavirus cases were "on the rise".

"The past week has shown that we recorded an increase in Covid-19 infections," the city's governor Alexander Beglov said in a radio interview on Monday.&nbsp;

"It is connected to the cyclical nature of the activity of the virus," he said, adding that his team was taking "all the necessary measures".&nbsp;

Also on Tuesday, local authorities said that a hospital for veterans with some 876 beds will be converted to a coronavirus ward. It will open its doors to patients by the end of the week.&nbsp;

In late May, another temporary hospital for coronavirus patients was reopened in Saint Petersburg after being shut since February.

The former imperial capital will host seven Euro matches -- including a quarter-final -- in June and July after the tournament was postponed for a year due to the pandemic.

Earlier in June, the city hosted the Saint Petersburg International Economic Forum, which despite being smaller than in previous years brought together thousands of participants.

By number of virus cases, Saint Petersburg is the second-most affected city in Russia, surpassed only by the capital Moscow.

Russia imposed a strict lockdown when the pandemic first swept across the country last spring, but authorities lifted most virus measures within several months, opting to protect the struggling economy.

They also pinned hopes on Russia's coronavirus vaccine, Sputnik V, which was registered in August.

But while Russia's domestic vaccination campaign started in early December ahead of most countries, the country has struggled to innoculate its citizens.

Russian health authorities said Tuesday that coronavirus cases in Saint Petersburg were on the rise with days to go before the city co-hosts the postponed Euro 2020 football championship.

Russian health authorities said Tuesday that coronavirus cases in Saint Petersburg were on the rise with days to go before the city co-hosts the postponed Euro 2020 football championship. Authorities in Russia's second city have set up additional hospital beds while assuring the spike in cases was due to a "cyclical" phenomenon. For the past month, the city recorded an average of 700 cases a day, but the number of daily infections has exceeded 800 for the last two weeks, according to a government tally. The Health Committee of Russia's second city said Tuesday that coronavirus cases were "on the rise". "The past week has shown that we recorded an increase in Covid-19 infections," the city's governor Alexander Beglov said in a radio interview on Monday. "It is connected to the cyclical nature of the activity of the virus," he said, adding that his team was taking "all the necessary measures". Also on Tuesday, local authorities said that a hospital for veterans with some 876 beds will be converted to a coronavirus ward. It will open its doors to patients by the end of the week. In late May, another temporary hospital for coronavirus patients was reopened in Saint Petersburg after being shut since February. The former imperial capital will host seven Euro matches -- including a quarter-final -- in June and July after the tournament was postponed for a year due to the pandemic. Earlier in June, the city hosted the Saint Petersburg International Economic Forum, which despite being smaller than in previous years brought together thousands of participants. By number of virus cases, Saint Petersburg is the second-most affected city in Russia, surpassed only by the capital Moscow. Russia imposed a strict lockdown when the pandemic first swept across the country last spring, but authorities lifted most virus measures within several months, opting to protect the struggling economy. They also pinned hopes on Russia's coronavirus vaccine, Sputnik V, which was registered in August. But while Russia's domestic vaccination campaign started in early December ahead of most countries, the country has struggled to innoculate its citizens.

Football: Virus cases spike in Russian Euro host city

Gareth Southgate says his England players are "role models" as a row simmered over the team's decision to take the knee at Euro 2020 to highlight the issue of racial injustice.

Southgate's side were booed by a section of the crowd at Middlesbrough's Riverside Stadium when they made the gesture before friendlies against Austria and Romania last week, though the jeers were drowned out by applause.

Premier League players have been going down on one knee before kick-off since George Floyd, who was black, was killed by a white police officer in the United States last year.

With fans now allowed back in stadiums in England after the easing of coronavirus lockdown restrictions, some politicians have voiced their opposition to the gesture.

The debate over the issue has provided an unwelcome distraction in the build-up to England's opening game against Croatia on June 13.

All three of England's group matches will take place at Wembley in front of crowds of 22,000 as part of a pilot scheme for the return of supporters.

Southgate, who had previously confirmed his side would continue taking the knee at the delayed European Championship, said the team had an important role to play.

"Our players&nbsp;are&nbsp;role models," the England boss wrote in the Players' Tribune. "And, beyond the confines of the pitch, we must recognise the impact they can have on society.

"We must give them the confidence to stand up for their teammates and the things that matter to them as people. I have never believed that we should just&nbsp;stick to football."

He added: "It's their duty to continue to interact with the public on matters such as equality, inclusivity and racial injustice, while using the power of their voices to help put debates on the table, raise awareness and educate."

Southgate tried to heal a potentially divisive rift among England's support and the players.

"There's something I tell our players before every England game, and the reason that I repeat it is because I really believe it with all my heart," he said.

"I tell them that when you go out there, in this shirt, you have the opportunity to produce moments that people will remember forever.

"You are a part of an experience that lasts in the collective consciousness of our country."

Gareth Southgate says his England players are "role models" as a row simmered over the team's decision to take the knee at Euro 2020 to highlight the issue of racial injustice.

Gareth Southgate says his England players are "role models" as a row simmered over the team's decision to take the knee at Euro 2020 to highlight the issue of racial injustice. Southgate's side were booed by a section of the crowd at Middlesbrough's Riverside Stadium when they made the gesture before friendlies against Austria and Romania last week, though the jeers were drowned out by applause. Premier League players have been going down on one knee before kick-off since George Floyd, who was black, was killed by a white police officer in the United States last year. With fans now allowed back in stadiums in England after the easing of coronavirus lockdown restrictions, some politicians have voiced their opposition to the gesture. The debate over the issue has provided an unwelcome distraction in the build-up to England's opening game against Croatia on June 13. All three of England's group matches will take place at Wembley in front of crowds of 22,000 as part of a pilot scheme for the return of supporters. Southgate, who had previously confirmed his side would continue taking the knee at the delayed European Championship, said the team had an important role to play. "Our players are role models," the England boss wrote in the Players' Tribune. "And, beyond the confines of the pitch, we must recognise the impact they can have on society. "We must give them the confidence to stand up for their teammates and the things that matter to them as people. I have never believed that we should just stick to football." He added: "It's their duty to continue to interact with the public on matters such as equality, inclusivity and racial injustice, while using the power of their voices to help put debates on the table, raise awareness and educate." Southgate tried to heal a potentially divisive rift among England's support and the players. "There's something I tell our players before every England game, and the reason that I repeat it is because I really believe it with all my heart," he said. "I tell them that when you go out there, in this shirt, you have the opportunity to produce moments that people will remember forever. "You are a part of an experience that lasts in the collective consciousness of our country."

Football: Southgate's England players are 'role models' as kneeling row simmers

A lot has been said and written since England pacer Ollie Robinson was suspended by the ECB from international cricket for his controversial historical tweets. Veteran England pacer James Anderson has now opined on the whole matter as he said that the England team has unanimously accepted Robinson’s heartfelt apology during the first Test against New Zealand, which was also his debut Test for England. <o:p></o:p>

Robinson’s Test debut, where he picked a match-haul of seven wickets, was marred by controversy as his racist and sexist tweets from nine years ago resurfaced on social media platform Twitter. Robinson was further suspended from international cricket by ECB for his offensive tweets dating back to 2012-13, for which he tendered a heartfelt apology. <o:p></o:p>

“No, I think it’s been accepted.&nbsp;He stood up in front of the group and apologised and you could see how sincere he was and upset he was, and I think as a group we appreciate that he is a different person now. He’s done a lot of maturing and growing since then, and he’s got the full support of the team,” Anderson told reporters.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-boris-johnson-criticises-suspension-of-england-paceman-robinson-over-racist-tweets-389998" hreflang="en">Cricket: Boris Johnson criticises suspension of England paceman Robinson over racist tweets</a>

The UK’s political class including Prime Minister Boris Johnson also weighed in on the matter while urging the ECB to reconsider the decision of suspending the pacer for something he did as a teenager. <o:p></o:p>

When asked about the impact of Robinson’s suspension on the team, the veteran said: “Well yeah, I think it’s a you know it is a difficult time. I think as players we’re trying to learn from this really. We realise that it’s important to try and get educated around these issues, which we’re continuing to do with the ECB and the PCA (Professional Cricketers’ Association) we’ve already been doing workshops before this series to try and help improve ourselves as people basically, to try and make sure that this sort of thing doesn’t happen.”<o:p></o:p>

At the close of Day 1 at Lord’s, the 27-year-old Robinson apologised on camera as he said he was going through a difficult patch in his life when he posted those tweets as an 18-year-old.<o:p></o:p>

“I want to make it clear that I’m not racist and I’m not sexist,” Robinson had said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-england-team-fined-40-per-cent-match-fee-for-slow-over-rate-in-1st-test-vs-new-zealand-389996" hreflang="en">Cricket: England team fined 40 per cent match fee for slow over-rate in 1st Test vs New Zealand</a><o:p></o:p>

“I deeply regret my actions, and I am ashamed of making such remarks. I was thoughtless and irresponsible, and regardless of my state of mind at the time, my actions were inexcusable.<o:p></o:p>

Since that period, I have matured as a person and fully regret the tweets.” <o:p></o:p>

However, due to the suspension, Robinson will not be available for the second Test against New Zealand which begins at Edgbaston on Thursday.<o:p></o:p>

A lot has been said and written since England pacer Ollie Robinson was suspended by the ECB from international cricket for his controversial historical tweets. Veteran England pacer James Anderson has now opined on the whole matter as he said that the England team has unanimously accepted Robinson’s heartfelt apology during the first Test against New Zealand, which was also his debut Test for England.

A lot has been said and written since England pacer Ollie Robinson was suspended by the ECB from international cricket for his controversial historical tweets. Veteran England pacer James Anderson has now opined on the whole matter as he said that the England team has unanimously accepted Robinson’s heartfelt apology during the first Test against New Zealand, which was also his debut Test for England. Robinson’s Test debut, where he picked a match-haul of seven wickets, was marred by controversy as his racist and sexist tweets from nine years ago resurfaced on social media platform Twitter. Robinson was further suspended from international cricket by ECB for his offensive tweets dating back to 2012-13, for which he tendered a heartfelt apology. “No, I think it’s been accepted. He stood up in front of the group and apologised and you could see how sincere he was and upset he was, and I think as a group we appreciate that he is a different person now. He’s done a lot of maturing and growing since then, and he’s got the full support of the team,” Anderson told reporters. ALSO READ: Cricket: Boris Johnson criticises suspension of England paceman Robinson over racist tweets The UK’s political class including Prime Minister Boris Johnson also weighed in on the matter while urging the ECB to reconsider the decision of suspending the pacer for something he did as a teenager. When asked about the impact of Robinson’s suspension on the team, the veteran said: “Well yeah, I think it’s a you know it is a difficult time. I think as players we’re trying to learn from this really. We realise that it’s important to try and get educated around these issues, which we’re continuing to do with the ECB and the PCA (Professional Cricketers’ Association) we’ve already been doing workshops before this series to try and help improve ourselves as people basically, to try and make sure that this sort of thing doesn’t happen.” At the close of Day 1 at Lord’s, the 27-year-old Robinson apologised on camera as he said he was going through a difficult patch in his life when he posted those tweets as an 18-year-old. “I want to make it clear that I’m not racist and I’m not sexist,” Robinson had said. ALSO READ: Cricket: England team fined 40 per cent match fee for slow over-rate in 1st Test vs New Zealand “I deeply regret my actions, and I am ashamed of making such remarks. I was thoughtless and irresponsible, and regardless of my state of mind at the time, my actions were inexcusable. Since that period, I have matured as a person and fully regret the tweets.” However, due to the suspension, Robinson will not be available for the second Test against New Zealand which begins at Edgbaston on Thursday.

Cricket: Ollie Robinson got full support of England team, says James Anderson

The world of cricket has witnessed the quality of Rishabh Pant over the years. Even when he was going through a rough patch of form, the fans believed that the youngster would bounce back stronger and he did. Pant was one of the key players for India in their historic tour of Australia and continued his good run of form in the home series against England. <o:p></o:p>

Pant, who has become the talk of the town due to his on-field heroics, however, did receive some flak when he was going through a torrid run of form. But he has answered his critics and heads into the WTC final and five-Test series against England as India’s number one wicket-keeper.<o:p></o:p>

Former Indian chief selector MSK Prasad has heaped praise on the 23-year-old as he highlighted his development into one of the most feared batters in the world.<o:p></o:p>

“That’s what we talk about succession. When we picked this guy (Pant), there was a lot of controversy. People said that he can’t bat in Test cricket and can’t keep in challenging wickets. So, what has happened today? See, how he kept wickets against England at home. And the way he batted in challenging batting conditions like England and Australia. The role of the selector is to identify the potential. Many people never believed that Pant would be so good,” Prasad told Cricket.com.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-icc-announces-match-officials-for-wtc-final-richard-illingworth-michael-gough-named-on-field-umpires-390182" hreflang="en">Cricket: ICC announces match officials for WTC final; Richard Illingworth, Michael Gough named on-field umpires</a><o:p></o:p>

Prasad further explained why Wriddhiman Saha was initially put ahead of Rishabh Pant as the first-choice wicket-keeper in the Indian team. er has convinced the team management with his performance that he should be backed.<o:p></o:p>

“Initially, when we picked Pant in the squad, Saha was the best keeper in the country purely because of his keeping skills. Later, we all accepted the fact that Pant will keep wickets in away series because your keeping skills are not tested much and batting skills become more important. With the stellar performances in Australia, Pant has convinced the team management that he needs to be backed even at home and immediately the way he kept wickets against England this year was there for all to see,” Prasad said.<o:p></o:p>

Pant will be next seen in India’s WTC final assignment against New Zealand, starting June 18, before taking the field for the five-Test series against England, staring August 4.<o:p></o:p>

The world of cricket has witnessed the quality of Rishabh Pant over the years. Even when he was going through a rough patch of form, the fans believed that the youngster would bounce back stronger and he did.

The world of cricket has witnessed the quality of Rishabh Pant over the years. Even when he was going through a rough patch of form, the fans believed that the youngster would bounce back stronger and he did. Pant was one of the key players for India in their historic tour of Australia and continued his good run of form in the home series against England. Pant, who has become the talk of the town due to his on-field heroics, however, did receive some flak when he was going through a torrid run of form. But he has answered his critics and heads into the WTC final and five-Test series against England as India’s number one wicket-keeper. Former Indian chief selector MSK Prasad has heaped praise on the 23-year-old as he highlighted his development into one of the most feared batters in the world. “That’s what we talk about succession. When we picked this guy (Pant), there was a lot of controversy. People said that he can’t bat in Test cricket and can’t keep in challenging wickets. So, what has happened today? See, how he kept wickets against England at home. And the way he batted in challenging batting conditions like England and Australia. The role of the selector is to identify the potential. Many people never believed that Pant would be so good,” Prasad told Cricket.com. ALSO READ: Cricket: ICC announces match officials for WTC final; Richard Illingworth, Michael Gough named on-field umpires Prasad further explained why Wriddhiman Saha was initially put ahead of Rishabh Pant as the first-choice wicket-keeper in the Indian team. er has convinced the team management with his performance that he should be backed. “Initially, when we picked Pant in the squad, Saha was the best keeper in the country purely because of his keeping skills. Later, we all accepted the fact that Pant will keep wickets in away series because your keeping skills are not tested much and batting skills become more important. With the stellar performances in Australia, Pant has convinced the team management that he needs to be backed even at home and immediately the way he kept wickets against England this year was there for all to see,” Prasad said. Pant will be next seen in India’s WTC final assignment against New Zealand, starting June 18, before taking the field for the five-Test series against England, staring August 4.

Cricket: 'People said he can’t bat in Test cricket' - MSK Prasad on Rishabh Pant’s development in international cricket

Foreign journalists covering the Tokyo Olympics will be tracked by GPS, the Games president Seiko Hashimoto said on Tuesday. The media could have their passes cancelled if they break the COVID-19 protocols in place for the much-awaited Tokyo Games.<o:p></o:p>

Tokyo Olympics organisers are working to reassure the public that the quadrennial even can be safely held under stringent coronavirus rules. Notably, the 2020 Games open in just over six weeks and the local public has been skeptical about the event amid the COVID-19 situation in the city.<o:p></o:p>

Around 6,000 reporters are likely to visit Japan for the 2020 Olympics and must provide a detailed list of areas they are planning to visit in their first two weeks in Japan, such as sports venues and hotels.<o:p></o:p>

Tokyo 2020 chief said that the tracking technology would be used to ensure that the media only visit the places they are supposed to. <o:p></o:p>

"To make sure that people don't go to places other than the places where they are registered to go, we will use GPS to strictly manage their behaviour," Hashimoto said before a Tokyo 2020 executive board meeting.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-merciless-rafael-nadal-marches-into-the-quarter-finals-390087" hreflang="en">French Open: Merciless Rafael Nadal marches into the quarter-finals</a><o:p></o:p>

The overseas media will be urged to stay in designated hotels rather than private lodgings. Interestingly, the number of hotels are set to be reduced from the originally planned 350 to around 150 as the Games organisers continue to keep visitors under close supervision.<o:p></o:p>

Even athletes will also face strict restrictions on their movement besides being tested regularly for the dreaded virus. Overseas fans have already been banned from attending the mega event and a call on domestic spectators will be taken later in June.<o:p></o:p>

While Japan has seen a smaller COVID-19 outbreak than many countries, the vaccine roll-out in the country has been pretty slow with around 3.5 per cent of the population completely vaccinated thus far.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

Foreign journalists covering the Tokyo Olympics will be tracked by GPS, the Games president Seiko Hashimoto said on Tuesday. The media could have their passes cancelled if they break the COVID-19 protocols in place for the much-awaited Tokyo Games.

Foreign journalists covering the Tokyo Olympics will be tracked by GPS, the Games president Seiko Hashimoto said on Tuesday. The media could have their passes cancelled if they break the COVID-19 protocols in place for the much-awaited Tokyo Games. Tokyo Olympics organisers are working to reassure the public that the quadrennial even can be safely held under stringent coronavirus rules. Notably, the 2020 Games open in just over six weeks and the local public has been skeptical about the event amid the COVID-19 situation in the city. Around 6,000 reporters are likely to visit Japan for the 2020 Olympics and must provide a detailed list of areas they are planning to visit in their first two weeks in Japan, such as sports venues and hotels. Tokyo 2020 chief said that the tracking technology would be used to ensure that the media only visit the places they are supposed to. "To make sure that people don't go to places other than the places where they are registered to go, we will use GPS to strictly manage their behaviour," Hashimoto said before a Tokyo 2020 executive board meeting. ALSO READ: French Open: Merciless Rafael Nadal marches into the quarter-finals The overseas media will be urged to stay in designated hotels rather than private lodgings. Interestingly, the number of hotels are set to be reduced from the originally planned 350 to around 150 as the Games organisers continue to keep visitors under close supervision. Even athletes will also face strict restrictions on their movement besides being tested regularly for the dreaded virus. Overseas fans have already been banned from attending the mega event and a call on domestic spectators will be taken later in June. While Japan has seen a smaller COVID-19 outbreak than many countries, the vaccine roll-out in the country has been pretty slow with around 3.5 per cent of the population completely vaccinated thus far.

Tokyo Olympics: Overseas reporters' movement to be tracked by GPS as Japan gears up for Games

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday announced the list of match officials for the inaugural ICC World Test Championship final, scheduled to be played between India and New Zealand at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton from June 18-22.<o:p></o:p>

Chris Broad of the ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees has been named as the match referee for the much-awaited game between India and New Zealand whereas Richard Illingworth and Michael Gough of the ICC Elite Panel of Umpires have been named the on-field officials for the WTC final.<o:p></o:p>

Whereas, Richard Kettleborough, also a member of the elite panel, will be the third umpire for the game. Alex Wharf of the ICC International Panel of Umpires will be the fourth official. <o:p></o:p>

"We are pleased to announce an experienced team of match officials for the final of the World Test Championship," said ICC Senior Manager -- Umpires and Referees, Adrian Griffith.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-top-5-run-scorers-in-world-test-championship-cycle-2019-2021-390168" hreflang="en">Cricket: Top 5 run-scorers in World Test Championship cycle 2019-2021</a>

"It has not been an easy time with the pandemic, but we are fortunate to have a group of officials at the top of their field who have been consistent over the years in this momentous fixture. We wish them all the very best," he added. <o:p></o:p>

The New Zealand team, after the second Test against England, will shift from ECB’s bio-secure environment to the WTC final bubble on June 15 and will undergo regular testing for COVID-19, prior and post-arrival to Southampton. <o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, India are inside the bio-secure bubble at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton. <o:p></o:p>

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday announced the list of match officials for the inaugural ICC World Test Championship final, scheduled to be played between India and New Zealand at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton from June 18-22.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday announced the list of match officials for the inaugural ICC World Test Championship final, scheduled to be played between India and New Zealand at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton from June 18-22. Chris Broad of the ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees has been named as the match referee for the much-awaited game between India and New Zealand whereas Richard Illingworth and Michael Gough of the ICC Elite Panel of Umpires have been named the on-field officials for the WTC final. Whereas, Richard Kettleborough, also a member of the elite panel, will be the third umpire for the game. Alex Wharf of the ICC International Panel of Umpires will be the fourth official. "We are pleased to announce an experienced team of match officials for the final of the World Test Championship," said ICC Senior Manager -- Umpires and Referees, Adrian Griffith. ALSO READ: Cricket: Top 5 run-scorers in World Test Championship cycle 2019-2021 "It has not been an easy time with the pandemic, but we are fortunate to have a group of officials at the top of their field who have been consistent over the years in this momentous fixture. We wish them all the very best," he added. The New Zealand team, after the second Test against England, will shift from ECB’s bio-secure environment to the WTC final bubble on June 15 and will undergo regular testing for COVID-19, prior and post-arrival to Southampton. Meanwhile, India are inside the bio-secure bubble at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton.

Cricket: ICC announces match officials for WTC final; Richard Illingworth, Michael Gough named on-field umpires

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Tuesday announced the England Women Central Contracts for 2021-22 season.<o:p></o:p>

Seventeen contracts have been awarded, with Sophia Dunkley receiving her first Central Contract.<o:p></o:p>&nbsp;The contracts run from May 1, 2021 to October 31, 2022 in order to align with the professional contracts at the eight Regional teams.

The England women team will now aim to do well against the upcoming home series against India where they will even play a one-off Test besides the limited-overs series.&nbsp;

<h2 class="MsoNormal">England Women Central Contracts list:</h2>

<ul>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Tammy Beaumont (Lightning)<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Katherine Brunt (Northern Diamonds)<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Kate Cross (Thunder)<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Freya Davies (South East Stars)<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Sophia Dunkley (South East Stars)<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Sophie Ecclestone (Thunder)<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Georgia Elwiss (Southern Vipers)<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Sarah Glenn (Central Sparks)<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Katie George (Western Storm)<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Heather Knight (Western Storm)<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Amy Jones (Central Sparks)<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Nat Sciver (Northern Diamonds)<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Anya Shrubsole (Western Storm)<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Mady Villiers (Sunrisers)<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Fran Wilson (Sunrisers)<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Lauren Winfield-Hill (Northern Diamonds)<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Danni Wyatt (Southern Vipers)<o:p></o:p></li>
</ul>

Jonathan Finch, Director of England Women’s Cricket, said: “We’re pleased to confirm a strong group of Centrally Contracted England Women’s cricketers ahead of a really exciting two years for Lisa, Heather and the team.<o:p></o:p>

“The Central Contracts, along with the roll out of professional women’s domestic contracts, provide a fantastic opportunity to develop a larger pool of players pushing for selection and help strive for success on the field for England Women.<o:p></o:p>

“We’ve continued to work closely with the England Women’s Player Partnership (EWPP) and the PCA to establish a comprehensive and objective process that underpins the awarding of Central Contracts. We will keep working in collaboration for the benefit of the players as we continue to grow and develop the professional women’s game.”<o:p></o:p>

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Tuesday announced the England Women Central Contracts for 2021-22 season. Seventeen contracts have been awarded, with Sophia Dunkley receiving her first Central Contract.

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Tuesday announced the England Women Central Contracts for 2021-22 season. Seventeen contracts have been awarded, with Sophia Dunkley receiving her first Central Contract. The contracts run from May 1, 2021 to October 31, 2022 in order to align with the professional contracts at the eight Regional teams. The England women team will now aim to do well against the upcoming home series against India where they will even play a one-off Test besides the limited-overs series. England Women Central Contracts list: Tammy Beaumont (Lightning) Katherine Brunt (Northern Diamonds) Kate Cross (Thunder) Freya Davies (South East Stars) Sophia Dunkley (South East Stars) Sophie Ecclestone (Thunder) Georgia Elwiss (Southern Vipers) Sarah Glenn (Central Sparks) Katie George (Western Storm) Heather Knight (Western Storm) Amy Jones (Central Sparks) Nat Sciver (Northern Diamonds) Anya Shrubsole (Western Storm) Mady Villiers (Sunrisers) Fran Wilson (Sunrisers) Lauren Winfield-Hill (Northern Diamonds) Danni Wyatt (Southern Vipers) Jonathan Finch, Director of England Women’s Cricket, said: “We’re pleased to confirm a strong group of Centrally Contracted England Women’s cricketers ahead of a really exciting two years for Lisa, Heather and the team. “The Central Contracts, along with the roll out of professional women’s domestic contracts, provide a fantastic opportunity to develop a larger pool of players pushing for selection and help strive for success on the field for England Women. “We’ve continued to work closely with the England Women’s Player Partnership (EWPP) and the PCA to establish a comprehensive and objective process that underpins the awarding of Central Contracts. We will keep working in collaboration for the benefit of the players as we continue to grow and develop the professional women’s game.”

Cricket: ECB announces England Women's central contract list

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday announced the nominees for May’s ICC Player of the Month Awards to recognise the best performances from both male and female cricketers across all forms of international cricket.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <o:p></o:p>

ICC Men’s Player of the Month Nominees for May: Hasan Ali (PAK), Praveen Jayawickrama (SL), Mushfiqur Rahim (BAN)<o:p></o:p>

ICC Women’s Player of the Month Nominees for May: Kathryn Bryce (SCO), Gaby Lewis (IRE), Leah Paul (IRE)<o:p></o:p>

In the month of May, Hasan Ali of Pakistan played two Tests against Zimbabwe where he took a total of 14 wickets. <o:p></o:p>

From Sri Lanka’s camp, debutant Praveen Jayawickrama played one Test against Bangladesh, where he took a total of 11 wickets at 16.11. He bowled Sri Lanka to victory in the second Test against Bangladesh with the best match figures by any Sri Lankan bowler on Test debut. <o:p></o:p>

Mushfiqur Rahim of Bangladesh played one Test and three ODIs against Sri Lanka. He helped Bangladesh win their first ODI series against Sri Lanka by scoring 125 in the second ODI.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-whenever-virat-kohli-hasnt-played-big-knock-he-has-stepped-up-msk-prasad-backs-ajinkya-rahane-in-india-xi-390120" hreflang="en">Cricket: 'Whenever Virat Kohli hasn’t played big knock, he has stepped up': MSK Prasad backs Ajinkya Rahane in India XI</a><o:p></o:p>

All-rounder Kathryn Bryce is the first player from Scotland, male, or female, to make it to the top 10 of the batting or bowling lists in the ICC Player Rankings released recently. She played four T20Is against Ireland where she scored 96 runs and took 5 wickets with an economy rate of 4.76. <o:p></o:p>

Gaby Lewis from Ireland also played four T20Is against Scotland where she scored 116 runs at 29.00 with a strike rate of 116.00. She became the leading run-scorer in the series between Ireland and Scotland, with innings of 47 in the second match and 49 in the fourth. <o:p></o:p>

Her compatriot Leah Paul took 9 wickets at 4.44 with an economy rate of 4.44 against Scotland and became the leading wicket-taker in the T20I series between Ireland and Scotland.<o:p></o:p>

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday announced the nominees for May’s ICC Player of the Month Awards to recognise the best performances from both male and female cricketers across all forms of international cricket.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday announced the nominees for May’s ICC Player of the Month Awards to recognise the best performances from both male and female cricketers across all forms of international cricket. ICC Men’s Player of the Month Nominees for May: Hasan Ali (PAK), Praveen Jayawickrama (SL), Mushfiqur Rahim (BAN) ICC Women’s Player of the Month Nominees for May: Kathryn Bryce (SCO), Gaby Lewis (IRE), Leah Paul (IRE) In the month of May, Hasan Ali of Pakistan played two Tests against Zimbabwe where he took a total of 14 wickets. From Sri Lanka’s camp, debutant Praveen Jayawickrama played one Test against Bangladesh, where he took a total of 11 wickets at 16.11. He bowled Sri Lanka to victory in the second Test against Bangladesh with the best match figures by any Sri Lankan bowler on Test debut. Mushfiqur Rahim of Bangladesh played one Test and three ODIs against Sri Lanka. He helped Bangladesh win their first ODI series against Sri Lanka by scoring 125 in the second ODI. ALSO READ: Cricket: 'Whenever Virat Kohli hasn’t played big knock, he has stepped up': MSK Prasad backs Ajinkya Rahane in India XI All-rounder Kathryn Bryce is the first player from Scotland, male, or female, to make it to the top 10 of the batting or bowling lists in the ICC Player Rankings released recently. She played four T20Is against Ireland where she scored 96 runs and took 5 wickets with an economy rate of 4.76. Gaby Lewis from Ireland also played four T20Is against Scotland where she scored 116 runs at 29.00 with a strike rate of 116.00. She became the leading run-scorer in the series between Ireland and Scotland, with innings of 47 in the second match and 49 in the fourth. Her compatriot Leah Paul took 9 wickets at 4.44 with an economy rate of 4.44 against Scotland and became the leading wicket-taker in the T20I series between Ireland and Scotland.

Cricket: ICC announces player of the month nominations for May

Indian football team’s captain Sunil Chhetri on Monday surpassed Argentina’s Lionel Messi to become the second-highest active international goal-scorer as the Indian talisman struck his 74th goal against Bangladesh in the joint preliminary qualifying round for the 2022 FIFA World Cup and 2023 AFC Asian Cup. <o:p></o:p>

The veteran Indian forward helped India register their first win in six years in World Cup qualifiers as he bagged a brace against Bangladesh to help India win 2-0. Chhetri now stands behind Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo (103) in the list of active international goal-scorer.<o:p></o:p>

Chhetri leads the Barcelona ace by two goals and sits a spot above UAE’s Ali Mabkhout, who is third in the list with 73 goals under his belt. While Messi had scored his 72nd international goal for Argentina in a World Cup qualifier against Chile, Mabkhout netted a goal against Malaysia.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/football-from-messi-to-lewandowski-single-season-top-scorers-in-europes-five-main-leagues-386876" hreflang="en">Football: From Messi to Lewandowski: Single season top-scorers in Europe's five main leagues</a><o:p></o:p>

Chhetri scored the first goal with a thumping header against Bangladesh at the Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium on Monday and then sealed India’s win by sending the ball to the top corner in added time. <o:p></o:p>

This was India’s first win in World Cup qualifiers away from home in 20 years. India are now sitting third in Group E with six points in the game. However, they are out of qualification contention for 2022 FIFA World Cup, but they will try qualify for the Asian Cup in China.<o:p></o:p>

The Indian skipper is additionally a goal away from entering world football’s all-time top 10 goal-scorer. <o:p></o:p>

Indian football team’s captain Sunil Chhetri on Monday surpassed Argentina’s Lionel Messi to become the second-highest active international goal-scorer as the Indian talisman struck his 74th goal against Bangladesh in the joint preliminary qualifying round for the 2022 FIFA World Cup and 2023 AFC Asian Cup.

Indian football team’s captain Sunil Chhetri on Monday surpassed Argentina’s Lionel Messi to become the second-highest active international goal-scorer as the Indian talisman struck his 74th goal against Bangladesh in the joint preliminary qualifying round for the 2022 FIFA World Cup and 2023 AFC Asian Cup. The veteran Indian forward helped India register their first win in six years in World Cup qualifiers as he bagged a brace against Bangladesh to help India win 2-0. Chhetri now stands behind Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo (103) in the list of active international goal-scorer. Chhetri leads the Barcelona ace by two goals and sits a spot above UAE’s Ali Mabkhout, who is third in the list with 73 goals under his belt. While Messi had scored his 72nd international goal for Argentina in a World Cup qualifier against Chile, Mabkhout netted a goal against Malaysia. ALSO READ: Football: From Messi to Lewandowski: Single season top-scorers in Europe's five main leagues Chhetri scored the first goal with a thumping header against Bangladesh at the Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium on Monday and then sealed India’s win by sending the ball to the top corner in added time. This was India’s first win in World Cup qualifiers away from home in 20 years. India are now sitting third in Group E with six points in the game. However, they are out of qualification contention for 2022 FIFA World Cup, but they will try qualify for the Asian Cup in China. The Indian skipper is additionally a goal away from entering world football’s all-time top 10 goal-scorer.

Football: India's Sunil Chhetri surpasses Lionel Messi in major record, stands one goal away from historic feat

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

There have been many debates around Ajinkya Rahane and what he brings to the Indian Test team. Rahane led India to a historic series win against Australia and even played a couple of crucial knocks in the series. However, many have questioned his long-term place in the playing XI. <o:p></o:p>

Opining on the matter, former India chief selector, MSK Prasad has backed the veteran while saying he has always stepped up when players like Virat Kohli and others have failed as the former India chief selector explained Rahane’s importance in the team. <o:p></o:p>

"I think he is too good a player to start with. Of course, he has gone through lots of ups and downs (of late) but whenever the team has been in trouble, he rises to the occasion. He has that potential. The graph is a little up and down but I don’t foresee any drastic decision being taken by team management. He will come back strongly. He is a wonderful team-man and everybody likes him a lot. Whenever Virat hasn’t played a big innings, this man has stepped up. We must not forget how he delivered as a captain and a player in Australia when many seniors were absent," Prasad told cricket.com.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-england-team-fined-40-per-cent-match-fee-for-slow-over-rate-in-1st-test-vs-new-zealand-389996" hreflang="en">Cricket: England team fined 40 per cent match fee for slow over-rate in 1st Test vs New Zealand</a>

"He is a proven player and his overseas record is far superior to many of the Indian players and maybe at home he has struggled a bit. We should not be putting unnecessary pressure on him," Prasad added.<o:p></o:p>

Prasad added that players like Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara are “true soldiers” of the team. <o:p></o:p>

"Again, we should not be putting unnecessary pressure on him. Someone like Rahane or Cheteshwar Pujara because they are true soldiers who have served Indian cricket wonderfully well for several years in the longer format. We should in fact back them.<o:p></o:p>

"Such talents should never be sidelined as they are proven match-winners and complete players. Rahane is like a suicidal troop. He can go anywhere to bat for the team," he signed off.<o:p></o:p>

Rahane will be seen in the World Test Championship final against New Zealand, followed by the five-Test series against England as India gear up for a vital couple of months ahead.<o:p></o:p>

There have been many debates around Ajinkya Rahane and what he brings to the Indian Test team. Rahane led India to a historic series win against Australia and even played a couple of crucial knocks in the series.

There have been many debates around Ajinkya Rahane and what he brings to the Indian Test team. Rahane led India to a historic series win against Australia and even played a couple of crucial knocks in the series. However, many have questioned his long-term place in the playing XI. Opining on the matter, former India chief selector, MSK Prasad has backed the veteran while saying he has always stepped up when players like Virat Kohli and others have failed as the former India chief selector explained Rahane’s importance in the team. "I think he is too good a player to start with. Of course, he has gone through lots of ups and downs (of late) but whenever the team has been in trouble, he rises to the occasion. He has that potential. The graph is a little up and down but I don’t foresee any drastic decision being taken by team management. He will come back strongly. He is a wonderful team-man and everybody likes him a lot. Whenever Virat hasn’t played a big innings, this man has stepped up. We must not forget how he delivered as a captain and a player in Australia when many seniors were absent," Prasad told cricket.com. ALSO READ: Cricket: England team fined 40 per cent match fee for slow over-rate in 1st Test vs New Zealand "He is a proven player and his overseas record is far superior to many of the Indian players and maybe at home he has struggled a bit. We should not be putting unnecessary pressure on him," Prasad added. Prasad added that players like Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara are “true soldiers” of the team. "Again, we should not be putting unnecessary pressure on him. Someone like Rahane or Cheteshwar Pujara because they are true soldiers who have served Indian cricket wonderfully well for several years in the longer format. We should in fact back them. "Such talents should never be sidelined as they are proven match-winners and complete players. Rahane is like a suicidal troop. He can go anywhere to bat for the team," he signed off. Rahane will be seen in the World Test Championship final against New Zealand, followed by the five-Test series against England as India gear up for a vital couple of months ahead.

Cricket: 'Whenever Virat Kohli hasn’t played big knock, he has stepped up': MSK Prasad backs Ajinkya Rahane in India XI

Ahead of the start of Euro 2020 on Friday, AFP Sport selects six of the continent's brightest young stars to watch at the month-long tournament:

<h2>- Phil Foden -</h2>

The player of the tournament when England won the Under-17 World Cup in India in 2017, Foden is now set to be unleashed on a full international competition for the first time at the age of 21. He is coming off a superb season at Manchester City in which he starred in Pep Guardiola's Premier League title-winning side, regularly cutting in from the left flank and contributing 16 goals in all competitions.

Foden, who likes to spend his free time fishing with his father, made his full England debut last September and scored his first goals against Iceland in the Nations League in November.

<h2>- Pedri -</h2>

Following in the footsteps of the likes of Juan Carlos Valeron, David Silva and Pedro Rodriguez before him, Pedri is the latest star to emerge from the Canary Islands and break into the Spain set-up.

The slight 18-year-old midfielder with the silky touch, who comes from Tenerife, joined Barcelona last year from Las Palmas. Growing up he modelled himself on Andres Iniesta and he wasted little time establishing himself at the Camp Nou, playing in all but one game in La Liga for Barca in the season just finished. He made his Spain debut in a World Cup qualifier against Greece in March.

<h2>- Jamal Musiala -</h2>

The 18-year-old Bayern Munich and Germany midfielder was born in Stuttgart but could have been lining up for England at the Euro. His father is British-Nigerian and he moved to England with his family aged seven. He has represented both Germany and England at youth level too. "I have a heart for Germany and a heart for England," he told The Athletic earlier this year.

However, he left the Chelsea academy set-up to join Bayern in 2019 and committed his international future to Germany in February, just before signing a new five-year deal at his club. Shortly after that he was given his full Germany debut in a World Cup qualifier against Iceland.

<h2>- Matthijs de Ligt -</h2>

Centre-back De Ligt is still just 21 but his importance to the Netherlands cannot be understated, especially with Virgil van Dijk ruled out of the Euro. That explains the concern for his fitness when he appeared to suffer a groin injury in training at the weekend.

Dutch coach Frank de Boer needs De Ligt, who captained Ajax in the Champions League aged just 19, starring in the side that got to the semi-finals of that competition in 2019 before being sold to Juventus in a world-record deal for a defender, the fee an initial 75 million euros ($84.2m).&nbsp;

A symbol of the new Dutch generation after the Oranje missed both Euro 2016 and the 2018 World Cup, De Ligt made his full international debut as a 17-year-old.&nbsp;

<h2>- Jeremy Doku -</h2>

The Belgian squad is full of established stars these days, but amid concern for the fitness of Kevin De Bruyne and the form of Eden Hazard, Doku could have a notable role to play for Roberto Martinez's side.&nbsp;

The winger who only recently turned 19 broke through at Anderlecht and made his full Belgium debut last September, just before Rennes paid a club record 26 million euros ($31.6m) to sign him. Doku needed time to adapt to his new surroundings but finished the season strongly in France and can be a threat on either flank.

<h2>- Joao Felix -</h2>

Felix, 21, became one of the five most expensive players in history when still a teenager after Atletico Madrid agreed to pay 126 million euros ($142m) to sign him from Benfica in 2019.

Capable of playing on either flank or through the middle in attack, Felix broke through at Benfica and is fresh from helping Atletico win La Liga. He is also a symbol of the new Portuguese generation that will support Cristiano Ronaldo at this Euro as Fernando Santos' team defend the title they won in France in 2016.

Ahead of the start of Euro 2020 on Friday, AFP Sport selects six of the continent's brightest young stars to watch at the month-long tournament: - Phil Foden - The player of the tournament when England won the Under-17 World Cup in India in 2017, Foden is now set to be unleashed on a full international competition for the first time at the age of 21.

Ahead of the start of Euro 2020 on Friday, AFP Sport selects six of the continent's brightest young stars to watch at the month-long tournament: - Phil Foden - The player of the tournament when England won the Under-17 World Cup in India in 2017, Foden is now set to be unleashed on a full international competition for the first time at the age of 21. He is coming off a superb season at Manchester City in which he starred in Pep Guardiola's Premier League title-winning side, regularly cutting in from the left flank and contributing 16 goals in all competitions. Foden, who likes to spend his free time fishing with his father, made his full England debut last September and scored his first goals against Iceland in the Nations League in November. - Pedri - Following in the footsteps of the likes of Juan Carlos Valeron, David Silva and Pedro Rodriguez before him, Pedri is the latest star to emerge from the Canary Islands and break into the Spain set-up. The slight 18-year-old midfielder with the silky touch, who comes from Tenerife, joined Barcelona last year from Las Palmas. Growing up he modelled himself on Andres Iniesta and he wasted little time establishing himself at the Camp Nou, playing in all but one game in La Liga for Barca in the season just finished. He made his Spain debut in a World Cup qualifier against Greece in March. - Jamal Musiala - The 18-year-old Bayern Munich and Germany midfielder was born in Stuttgart but could have been lining up for England at the Euro. His father is British-Nigerian and he moved to England with his family aged seven. He has represented both Germany and England at youth level too. "I have a heart for Germany and a heart for England," he told The Athletic earlier this year. However, he left the Chelsea academy set-up to join Bayern in 2019 and committed his international future to Germany in February, just before signing a new five-year deal at his club. Shortly after that he was given his full Germany debut in a World Cup qualifier against Iceland. - Matthijs de Ligt - Centre-back De Ligt is still just 21 but his importance to the Netherlands cannot be understated, especially with Virgil van Dijk ruled out of the Euro. That explains the concern for his fitness when he appeared to suffer a groin injury in training at the weekend. Dutch coach Frank de Boer needs De Ligt, who captained Ajax in the Champions League aged just 19, starring in the side that got to the semi-finals of that competition in 2019 before being sold to Juventus in a world-record deal for a defender, the fee an initial 75 million euros ($84.2m). A symbol of the new Dutch generation after the Oranje missed both Euro 2016 and the 2018 World Cup, De Ligt made his full international debut as a 17-year-old. - Jeremy Doku - The Belgian squad is full of established stars these days, but amid concern for the fitness of Kevin De Bruyne and the form of Eden Hazard, Doku could have a notable role to play for Roberto Martinez's side. The winger who only recently turned 19 broke through at Anderlecht and made his full Belgium debut last September, just before Rennes paid a club record 26 million euros ($31.6m) to sign him. Doku needed time to adapt to his new surroundings but finished the season strongly in France and can be a threat on either flank. - Joao Felix - Felix, 21, became one of the five most expensive players in history when still a teenager after Atletico Madrid agreed to pay 126 million euros ($142m) to sign him from Benfica in 2019. Capable of playing on either flank or through the middle in attack, Felix broke through at Benfica and is fresh from helping Atletico win La Liga. He is also a symbol of the new Portuguese generation that will support Cristiano Ronaldo at this Euro as Fernando Santos' team defend the title they won in France in 2016.

Football: From Foden to Felix - Six young stars to watch at Euro 2020

Floyd Mayweather predictably dominated YouTube star Logan Paul on Sunday night in an eight-round exhibition fight in Miami before admitting it could have been his final performance.

Mayweather, who weighed in at 155 lbs with his opponent tipping the scales at 189.5 lbs, produced a slick performance much to the delight of the crowd at Hard Rock Stadium in Florida.

Intermittent rain throughout the evening failed to put a damper on the 44-year-old Mayweather’s first performance since beating Japanese kickboxer Tenshin Nasukawa in December 2018.

With the likes of former heavyweight champion Evander Holyfield watching on from ringside, the 26-year-old Paul lasted eight rounds against Mayweather, who barely broke a sweat.

This was declared an exhibition, rather than a licensed bout, which meant there were no judges and the only way to triumph was to stop or knock-out the opponent within the eight three-minute rounds.

Mayweather ended to his boxing career in 2017 with a record of 50-0 after beating UFC star Conor McGregor in Las Vegas.

Paul, who was taking part in his third fight after two encounters against fellow YouTuber KSI, was outclassed by Mayweather who delivered a number of punishing blows to stop his American opponent from making any headway.

Mayweather claimed afterwards this could be his final appearance saying, "I wanted to give people a show and he was fighting to survive.&nbsp;

"This was like a training session, really.&nbsp;Just going the distance was a win for him. He can grapple and was good at holding. When a guy that size is holding you, it’s hard to get him off you. If they are happy with grappling and holding for eight rounds, that’s good for them.&nbsp;

"I had fun, he did too. It was cool. When the money comes, we will see who the winner is.

"Will I make a comeback? Absolutely not. I have retired from the sport of boxing. I probably won’t do an exhibition again either."

Paul, who tried to wear down Mayweather with his extra weight, did well to last eight rounds and enjoyed some moderate success but his opponent's experience and boxing know-how was too much.

"I am going into the Hall of Fame, I have nothing to prove," said Mayweather.

“I hope the fans were pleased. I have been in this sport for so long, I was letting people see I can come out at the age of 44 and bring almost 30,000 to the stadium and bring good pay-per-view numbers.&nbsp;

"I am not going to perform like I was 19, it’s all about growth and aging. I can’t fight like when I fought people like Gatti and people like that. It’s sad Manny Pacquiao is coming out to fight again.&nbsp;

"I could have pressed really hard but it was fun. His whole goal was to survive and that was a win for him. If he’s happy, so be it. In the history books I will always be the greatest.

"If he would have fought more, it wouldn’t have lasted eight rounds."

Paul enjoyed being in the ring with one of the best of all time, even if he was on the wrong end of too many heavy shots.

"He was slower than I thought, father time is catching up with him perhaps," said Paul.

"I knew if it went the distance I won technically but I hit him with a good shot in the first round but surviving against Floyd Mayweather is something and I am happy."

Floyd Mayweather predictably dominated YouTube star Logan Paul on Sunday night in an eight-round exhibition fight in Miami before admitting it could have been his final performance.

Floyd Mayweather predictably dominated YouTube star Logan Paul on Sunday night in an eight-round exhibition fight in Miami before admitting it could have been his final performance. Mayweather, who weighed in at 155 lbs with his opponent tipping the scales at 189.5 lbs, produced a slick performance much to the delight of the crowd at Hard Rock Stadium in Florida. Intermittent rain throughout the evening failed to put a damper on the 44-year-old Mayweather’s first performance since beating Japanese kickboxer Tenshin Nasukawa in December 2018. With the likes of former heavyweight champion Evander Holyfield watching on from ringside, the 26-year-old Paul lasted eight rounds against Mayweather, who barely broke a sweat. This was declared an exhibition, rather than a licensed bout, which meant there were no judges and the only way to triumph was to stop or knock-out the opponent within the eight three-minute rounds. Mayweather ended to his boxing career in 2017 with a record of 50-0 after beating UFC star Conor McGregor in Las Vegas. Paul, who was taking part in his third fight after two encounters against fellow YouTuber KSI, was outclassed by Mayweather who delivered a number of punishing blows to stop his American opponent from making any headway. Mayweather claimed afterwards this could be his final appearance saying, "I wanted to give people a show and he was fighting to survive. "This was like a training session, really. Just going the distance was a win for him. He can grapple and was good at holding. When a guy that size is holding you, it’s hard to get him off you. If they are happy with grappling and holding for eight rounds, that’s good for them. "I had fun, he did too. It was cool. When the money comes, we will see who the winner is. "Will I make a comeback? Absolutely not. I have retired from the sport of boxing. I probably won’t do an exhibition again either." Paul, who tried to wear down Mayweather with his extra weight, did well to last eight rounds and enjoyed some moderate success but his opponent's experience and boxing know-how was too much. "I am going into the Hall of Fame, I have nothing to prove," said Mayweather. “I hope the fans were pleased. I have been in this sport for so long, I was letting people see I can come out at the age of 44 and bring almost 30,000 to the stadium and bring good pay-per-view numbers. "I am not going to perform like I was 19, it’s all about growth and aging. I can’t fight like when I fought people like Gatti and people like that. It’s sad Manny Pacquiao is coming out to fight again. "I could have pressed really hard but it was fun. His whole goal was to survive and that was a win for him. If he’s happy, so be it. In the history books I will always be the greatest. "If he would have fought more, it wouldn’t have lasted eight rounds." Paul enjoyed being in the ring with one of the best of all time, even if he was on the wrong end of too many heavy shots. "He was slower than I thought, father time is catching up with him perhaps," said Paul. "I knew if it went the distance I won technically but I hit him with a good shot in the first round but surviving against Floyd Mayweather is something and I am happy."

Mayweather barely breaks sweat in 'training session' with YouTuber Paul

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson backed comments from his culture and sports secretary on Monday that English cricket's ruling body went "over the top" by suspending paceman Ollie Robinson over historical racist and sexist tweets.

Oliver Dowden on Monday urged the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) to "think again" over the sanction for the 27-year-old.

Robinson -- who impressed with ball and bat in his debut Test against New Zealand, which finished in a draw on Sunday -- has been suspended from all international cricket pending the outcome of an investigation following tweets he posted in 2012 and 2013.

"Ollie Robinson's tweets were offensive and wrong," Dowden said. "They are also a decade old and written by a teenager.

"The teenager is now a man and has rightly apologised. The ECB has gone over the top by suspending him and should think again."

Johnson supported Dowden's position.

"As Oliver Dowden set out, these were comments made more than a decade ago written by someone as a teenager and for which they've rightly apologised," said a spokesman for the prime minister.

The paceman led England's attack with 4-75 in the first innings of the first Test at Lord's and followed up with 3-26 in the second innings while also making a useful 42 with the bat.

Robinson, in a statement issued after play on Wednesday, said he was "embarrassed" and "ashamed" by the posts.

The posts had emerged on the first day of his Test debut.&nbsp;

"I want to make it clear that I'm not racist and I'm not sexist," he added.

Former England captain David Gower also thought the penalty was harsh.

"The ECB should say 'let's learn from this' and make him do the equivalent of community service," Gower told the BBC on Monday.

"He should go out there among county cricketers and spread the word that social media shouldn't be abused."

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson backed comments from his culture and sports secretary on Monday that English cricket's ruling body went "over the top" by suspending paceman Ollie Robinson over historical racist and sexist tweets.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson backed comments from his culture and sports secretary on Monday that English cricket's ruling body went "over the top" by suspending paceman Ollie Robinson over historical racist and sexist tweets. Oliver Dowden on Monday urged the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) to "think again" over the sanction for the 27-year-old. Robinson -- who impressed with ball and bat in his debut Test against New Zealand, which finished in a draw on Sunday -- has been suspended from all international cricket pending the outcome of an investigation following tweets he posted in 2012 and 2013. "Ollie Robinson's tweets were offensive and wrong," Dowden said. "They are also a decade old and written by a teenager. "The teenager is now a man and has rightly apologised. The ECB has gone over the top by suspending him and should think again." Johnson supported Dowden's position. "As Oliver Dowden set out, these were comments made more than a decade ago written by someone as a teenager and for which they've rightly apologised," said a spokesman for the prime minister. The paceman led England's attack with 4-75 in the first innings of the first Test at Lord's and followed up with 3-26 in the second innings while also making a useful 42 with the bat. Robinson, in a statement issued after play on Wednesday, said he was "embarrassed" and "ashamed" by the posts. The posts had emerged on the first day of his Test debut. "I want to make it clear that I'm not racist and I'm not sexist," he added. Former England captain David Gower also thought the penalty was harsh. "The ECB should say 'let's learn from this' and make him do the equivalent of community service," Gower told the BBC on Monday. "He should go out there among county cricketers and spread the word that social media shouldn't be abused."

Cricket: Boris Johnson criticises suspension of England paceman Robinson over racist tweets

The England cricket team have been fined 40 per cent of their match fee for maintaining slow over-rate against New Zealand in the first Test at Lord’s. The ICC announced the development on Monday as it penalised England for producing a slow show at the home of cricket.<o:p></o:p>

ICC match referee Chris Broad imposed the sanction after Joe Root-led England were found two overs short of the target after taking time allowances into consideration. <o:p></o:p>

"In accordance with Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which relates to minimum over-rate offences, players are fined 20 percent of their match fees for every over their side fails to bowl in the allotted time," an ICC release stated.<o:p></o:p>

Root pleaded guilty to the offence and accepted the proposed sanction, so there was no need for a formal hearing.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-sri-lanka-emerges-as-darkhorse-to-host-t20-world-cup-report-389993" hreflang="en">Cricket: Sri Lanka emerges as darkhorse to host T20 World Cup - Report</a><o:p></o:p>

On-field umpires Michael Gough and Richard Kettleborough, third umpire Richard Illingworth and fourth umpire Mike Burns levelled the charge against the home team.<o:p></o:p>

The first match between England and New Zealand ended up in a dull draw and both the teams would be hoping for a result when they take the field at Edgbaston in Birmingham for the second and last Test of the series.<o:p></o:p>

After the two-Test series, New Zealand will gear up for the ICC World Test Championship final against India, starting from June 18 while England will wait for the five-Test series against the Virat Kohli-led outfit in August. <o:p></o:p>

The England cricket team have been fined 40 per cent of their match fee for maintaining slow over-rate against New Zealand in the first Test at Lord’s. The ICC announced the development on Monday as it penalised England for producing a slow show at the home of cricket.

The England cricket team have been fined 40 per cent of their match fee for maintaining slow over-rate against New Zealand in the first Test at Lord’s. The ICC announced the development on Monday as it penalised England for producing a slow show at the home of cricket. ICC match referee Chris Broad imposed the sanction after Joe Root-led England were found two overs short of the target after taking time allowances into consideration. "In accordance with Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which relates to minimum over-rate offences, players are fined 20 percent of their match fees for every over their side fails to bowl in the allotted time," an ICC release stated. Root pleaded guilty to the offence and accepted the proposed sanction, so there was no need for a formal hearing. ALSO READ: Cricket: Sri Lanka emerges as darkhorse to host T20 World Cup - Report On-field umpires Michael Gough and Richard Kettleborough, third umpire Richard Illingworth and fourth umpire Mike Burns levelled the charge against the home team. The first match between England and New Zealand ended up in a dull draw and both the teams would be hoping for a result when they take the field at Edgbaston in Birmingham for the second and last Test of the series. After the two-Test series, New Zealand will gear up for the ICC World Test Championship final against India, starting from June 18 while England will wait for the five-Test series against the Virat Kohli-led outfit in August.

Cricket: England team fined 40 per cent match fee for slow over-rate in 1st Test vs New Zealand

Sri Lanka has emerged as the dark horse to host the ICC T20 World Cup 2021, which is scheduled to be hosted by India. Given the situation around COVID-19 in India, there have been talks between BCCI and the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) in relation to hosting the T20 World Cup 2021. <o:p></o:p>

According to a report in ANI, BCCI officials have been in talks with Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) as well. &nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

"See, there is no denying the fact that BCCI and ECB officials have been having discussions on taking the showpiece event to UAE with an eye on the COVID-19 situation in India. But, what also needs to be kept in mind here is that hosting the IPL would mean quite a few games, not to forget other tournaments or matches that might be held in some of the venues and tired wickets by the time of the World Cup,” a source close to the development told ANI. <o:p></o:p>

"Keeping the playing conditions in mind, there have been some talks with SLC officials and just basic discussions to be honest. Too early to get into the details, but we still have some time before we need to get back to the ICC to inform them on the situation as the BCCI will continue to have the hosting rights even if it is played outside India," the source explained.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-indias-limited-overs-tour-of-sri-lanka-to-start-from-july-13-check-full-schedule-389957" hreflang="en">Cricket: India's limited-overs tour of Sri Lanka to start from July 13 - Check full schedule</a><o:p></o:p>

While UAE has just three venues in Sharjah, Dubai and Abu Dhabi; Sri Lanka will provide more options when it comes to hosting games. The city of Colombo itself has three stadiums. Notably, SLC had also made its intentions clear for hosting IPL 2021 in the September-October window. <o:p></o:p>

"See, these are tough times and with COVID-19 it is an ever-changing situation. So, don't think the host broadcasters would mind backing BCCI if they look at Sri Lanka as an option to host the showpiece event. Keeping options open is not a bad thing," the source said. <o:p></o:p>

"First and foremost, the BCCI needs to submit the tax exemption guarantee by June 15 and things will start rolling one after the other with the Indian board also needing to inform the ICC by June 28 about the position with regards to hosting the event in the country," the source pointed.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-ipl-2021-to-resume-on-september-19-in-uae-final-scheduled-on-october-15-389949" hreflang="en">Cricket: IPL 2021 to resume on September 19 in UAE, final scheduled on October 15</a><o:p></o:p>

Earlier, the ICC had confirmed that the BCCI would retain the hosting rights of T20 World Cup even if the tournament is shifted to another country.<o:p></o:p>

"A final decision on the host country will be taken later this month. The Board also confirmed that the BCCI will remain the hosts of the event regardless of where the event is played," the ICC said in an official release. <o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

Sri Lanka has emerged as the dark horse to host the ICC T20 World Cup 2021, which is scheduled to be hosted by India. Given the situation around COVID-19 in India, there have been talks between BCCI and the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) in relation to hosting the T20 World Cup 2021.

Sri Lanka has emerged as the dark horse to host the ICC T20 World Cup 2021, which is scheduled to be hosted by India. Given the situation around COVID-19 in India, there have been talks between BCCI and the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) in relation to hosting the T20 World Cup 2021. According to a report in ANI, BCCI officials have been in talks with Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) as well. "See, there is no denying the fact that BCCI and ECB officials have been having discussions on taking the showpiece event to UAE with an eye on the COVID-19 situation in India. But, what also needs to be kept in mind here is that hosting the IPL would mean quite a few games, not to forget other tournaments or matches that might be held in some of the venues and tired wickets by the time of the World Cup,” a source close to the development told ANI. "Keeping the playing conditions in mind, there have been some talks with SLC officials and just basic discussions to be honest. Too early to get into the details, but we still have some time before we need to get back to the ICC to inform them on the situation as the BCCI will continue to have the hosting rights even if it is played outside India," the source explained. ALSO READ: Cricket: India's limited-overs tour of Sri Lanka to start from July 13 - Check full schedule While UAE has just three venues in Sharjah, Dubai and Abu Dhabi; Sri Lanka will provide more options when it comes to hosting games. The city of Colombo itself has three stadiums. Notably, SLC had also made its intentions clear for hosting IPL 2021 in the September-October window. "See, these are tough times and with COVID-19 it is an ever-changing situation. So, don't think the host broadcasters would mind backing BCCI if they look at Sri Lanka as an option to host the showpiece event. Keeping options open is not a bad thing," the source said. "First and foremost, the BCCI needs to submit the tax exemption guarantee by June 15 and things will start rolling one after the other with the Indian board also needing to inform the ICC by June 28 about the position with regards to hosting the event in the country," the source pointed. ALSO READ: Cricket: IPL 2021 to resume on September 19 in UAE, final scheduled on October 15 Earlier, the ICC had confirmed that the BCCI would retain the hosting rights of T20 World Cup even if the tournament is shifted to another country. "A final decision on the host country will be taken later this month. The Board also confirmed that the BCCI will remain the hosts of the event regardless of where the event is played," the ICC said in an official release.

Cricket: Sri Lanka emerges as darkhorse to host T20 World Cup - Report

The complete schedule for the much-awaited India’s limited-overs tour of Sri Lanka has been announced. The six-match series where the Men in Blue will take on Sri Lanka in three ODIs and as many T20Is will commence from July 13 with the final match of the tour to be played on July 25.

<o:p>Sony Sports took to social media platform Twitter to announce the schedule of India's tour of Sri Lanka in July.</o:p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Indian waves will crash against the Sri Lankan shore with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JeetneKiZid?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JeetneKiZid</a> 🌊 
🇮🇳 tour of 🇱🇰, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SirfSonyPeDikhega?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SirfSonyPeDikhega</a>! 
 
🗓️ Starting 13th July 
📺 Sony TEN 1, Sony TEN 3, Sony TEN 4, Sony SIX<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SLvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SLvIND</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvSL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvSL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SonySports?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SonySports</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cricket</a> <a href="https://t.co/P3ZeGTjDXl">pic.twitter.com/P3ZeGTjDXl</a>
— Sony Sports (@SonySportsIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/SonySportsIndia/status/1401840439875964928?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

In what promises to be a high-octane series, the Indian team will field a second-string side consisting of white-ball specialists who are not part of India’s ongoing tour of the UK, where the Virat Kohli-led side will play the World Test Championship final and five-match Test series against England. <o:p></o:p>

The Indian squads for the Sri Lanka tour are likely to be announced by the end of June. <o:p></o:p>

The likes of Suryakumar Yadav, Shikhar Dhawan, Ishan Kishan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Deepak Chahar among others are expected to be in the Indian squad whereas a call on Shreyas Iyer will be taken depending on his recovery from shoulder surgery.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-ipl-2021-to-resume-on-september-19-in-uae-final-scheduled-on-october-15-389949" hreflang="en">Cricket: IPL 2021 to resume on September 19 in UAE, final scheduled on October 15</a><o:p></o:p>

The series will provide an opportunity for the Indian team management to get a good look at some of the fringe players in the side ahead of the T20 World Cup. <o:p></o:p>

According to reports, Rahul Dravid is likely to take charge of the Indian team with Ravi Shastri and Co busy with the tour of UK.<o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">India tour of Sri Lanka in July: Full schedule<o:p></o:p></h2>

1st ODI: July 13<o:p></o:p>

2nd ODI: July 16<o:p></o:p>

3rd ODI: July 18<o:p></o:p>

1st T20I: July 21<o:p></o:p>

2nd T20I: July 23<o:p></o:p>

3rd T20I: July 25<o:p></o:p>

The complete schedule for the much-awaited India’s limited-overs tour of Sri Lanka has been announced. The six-match series where the Men in Blue will take on Sri Lanka in three ODIs and as many T20Is will commence from July 13 with the final match of the tour to be played on July 25.

The complete schedule for the much-awaited India’s limited-overs tour of Sri Lanka has been announced. The six-match series where the Men in Blue will take on Sri Lanka in three ODIs and as many T20Is will commence from July 13 with the final match of the tour to be played on July 25. Sony Sports took to social media platform Twitter to announce the schedule of India's tour of Sri Lanka in July. Indian waves will crash against the Sri Lankan shore with #JeetneKiZid 🌊 🇮🇳 tour of 🇱🇰, #SirfSonyPeDikhega! 🗓️ Starting 13th July 📺 Sony TEN 1, Sony TEN 3, Sony TEN 4, Sony SIX#SLvIND #INDvSL #SonySports #Cricket pic.twitter.com/P3ZeGTjDXl — Sony Sports (@SonySportsIndia) June 7, 2021 × In what promises to be a high-octane series, the Indian team will field a second-string side consisting of white-ball specialists who are not part of India’s ongoing tour of the UK, where the Virat Kohli-led side will play the World Test Championship final and five-match Test series against England. The Indian squads for the Sri Lanka tour are likely to be announced by the end of June. The likes of Suryakumar Yadav, Shikhar Dhawan, Ishan Kishan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Deepak Chahar among others are expected to be in the Indian squad whereas a call on Shreyas Iyer will be taken depending on his recovery from shoulder surgery. ALSO READ: Cricket: IPL 2021 to resume on September 19 in UAE, final scheduled on October 15 The series will provide an opportunity for the Indian team management to get a good look at some of the fringe players in the side ahead of the T20 World Cup. According to reports, Rahul Dravid is likely to take charge of the Indian team with Ravi Shastri and Co busy with the tour of UK. India tour of Sri Lanka in July: Full schedule 1st ODI: July 13 2nd ODI: July 16 3rd ODI: July 18 1st T20I: July 21 2nd T20I: July 23 3rd T20I: July 25

Cricket: India's limited-overs tour of Sri Lanka to start from July 13 - Check full schedule

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has locked on the date for the resumption of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, scheduled to be held in the UAE. The first game, after the resumption, will be played on September 19 while the final will be hosted on October 10. <o:p></o:p>

According to ANI, the Indian board is confident of hosting the remainder of IPL 2021 successfully in Dubai, Sharjah and Abu Dhabi while adding that the BCCI has always been keen on a 25-day window to finish the T20 tournament.<o:p></o:p>

"The discussions went really well and with ECB already giving us the oral nod to host the event ahead of the BCCI SGM, it was about closing the deal over the last week. The first game after the season resumes will be held on September 19 while we will have the final on October 15. The BCCI was always keen on a 25-day window to finish the remaining matches," a BCCI official told ANI.<o:p></o:p>

When quizzed about the situation regarding overseas players’ availability for IPL 2021, the official said that the Indian board is hopeful of positive outcomes.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-couldnt-believe-them-joe-root-reacts-to-ollie-robinsons-racist-sexist-historical-tweets-389926" hreflang="en">Cricket: 'Couldn’t believe them' - Joe Root reacts to Ollie Robinson’s racist, sexist historical tweets</a><o:p></o:p>

"The discussions have started and we are keeping fingers crossed that the foreign players will be mostly available. If a couple of them do not manage to turn up, we shall then decide on the future course of action. But keeping fingers crossed for now and hoping to have an action-packed end to the 14th edition in UAE," the official said. <o:p></o:p>

The IPL 2021 franchises are confident that the BCCI will have fruitful discussions with foreign boards in a bid to make players available for the remaining matches. <o:p></o:p>

"What we were made aware after the BCCI SGM is that the board will be speaking to the foreign boards and check on the availability of the foreign cricketers. We are confident that the BCCI will find the best possible solution and honestly it is a matter of the BCCI officials speaking to the respective board officials, so we should wait to hear from the board on this.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-yuvraj-singh-reveals-why-india-will-have-slight-disadvantage-in-wtc-final-vs-new-zealand-389893" hreflang="en">Cricket: Yuvraj Singh reveals why India will have 'slight disadvantage' in WTC Final vs New Zealand</a><o:p></o:p>

"Yes, if we do end up missing some of the foreign stars, that is an area which would need some attention when it comes to picking replacements as the foreign players are also integral to the teams. Team balance can go for a toss, so keeping fingers crossed on that one," the franchise official said.<o:p></o:p>

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has locked on the date for the resumption of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, scheduled to be held in the UAE.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has locked on the date for the resumption of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, scheduled to be held in the UAE. The first game, after the resumption, will be played on September 19 while the final will be hosted on October 10. According to ANI, the Indian board is confident of hosting the remainder of IPL 2021 successfully in Dubai, Sharjah and Abu Dhabi while adding that the BCCI has always been keen on a 25-day window to finish the T20 tournament. "The discussions went really well and with ECB already giving us the oral nod to host the event ahead of the BCCI SGM, it was about closing the deal over the last week. The first game after the season resumes will be held on September 19 while we will have the final on October 15. The BCCI was always keen on a 25-day window to finish the remaining matches," a BCCI official told ANI. When quizzed about the situation regarding overseas players’ availability for IPL 2021, the official said that the Indian board is hopeful of positive outcomes. ALSO READ: Cricket: 'Couldn’t believe them' - Joe Root reacts to Ollie Robinson’s racist, sexist historical tweets "The discussions have started and we are keeping fingers crossed that the foreign players will be mostly available. If a couple of them do not manage to turn up, we shall then decide on the future course of action. But keeping fingers crossed for now and hoping to have an action-packed end to the 14th edition in UAE," the official said. The IPL 2021 franchises are confident that the BCCI will have fruitful discussions with foreign boards in a bid to make players available for the remaining matches. "What we were made aware after the BCCI SGM is that the board will be speaking to the foreign boards and check on the availability of the foreign cricketers. We are confident that the BCCI will find the best possible solution and honestly it is a matter of the BCCI officials speaking to the respective board officials, so we should wait to hear from the board on this. ALSO READ: Cricket: Yuvraj Singh reveals why India will have 'slight disadvantage' in WTC Final vs New Zealand "Yes, if we do end up missing some of the foreign stars, that is an area which would need some attention when it comes to picking replacements as the foreign players are also integral to the teams. Team balance can go for a toss, so keeping fingers crossed on that one," the franchise official said.

Cricket: IPL 2021 to resume on September 19 in UAE, final scheduled on October 15

There has been a lot of debate around the top three or five batsmen in the world. While the names of Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson, Steve Smith continue to be central to the discussions, the rise of Pakistan batsman Babar Azam has brought him into the debate. <o:p></o:p>

Former South Africa opener and now the head coach of Pakistan Super League (PSL) outfit Karachi Kings, Herschelle Gibbs has weighed his opinion on the matter as he said that Babar has the potential to replicate what Virat Kohli has done for India and in franchise cricket.<o:p></o:p>

Gibbs opined that Babar, for him, is in the top three batsmen in the world and has the hunger to become better each day.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-couldnt-believe-them-joe-root-reacts-to-ollie-robinsons-racist-sexist-historical-tweets-389926" hreflang="en">Cricket: 'Couldn’t believe them' - Joe Root reacts to Ollie Robinson’s racist, sexist historical tweets</a>

“For me, he is in the top three batsmen in the world, across formats. He is a fantastic player, he knows his game and is hungry to score runs. It is always a sign that they want to become greater and better. If you look at Virat Kohli, Babar Azam is younger than him. There's nothing stopping Babar Azam from achieving what Kohli has achieved in the next decade or so,” Gibbs told Dawn News. <o:p></o:p>

“He has all the potential to become one of the greats in the world. He has made a fantastic start to his career and has got the technique to play in all conditions. He can become as good as Virat Kohli if not better,” the former South African cricketer added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-yuvraj-singh-reveals-why-india-will-have-slight-disadvantage-in-wtc-final-vs-new-zealand-389893" hreflang="en">Cricket: Yuvraj Singh reveals why India will have 'slight disadvantage' in WTC Final vs New Zealand</a><o:p></o:p>

All eyes will be on Babar when Karachi Kings take the field for PSL 6 in Abu Dhabi in a bid to defend their title. <o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, PSL 2021 is set to resume from June 9 in Abu Dhabi with the final scheduled for June 24. Earlier, the PSL was postponed amid multiple COVID-19 cases within the bio-secure bubble of the tournament. <o:p></o:p>

There has been a lot of debate around the top three or five batsmen in the world. While the names of Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson, Steve Smith continue to be central to the discussions, the rise of Pakistan batsman Babar Azam has brought him into the debate.

There has been a lot of debate around the top three or five batsmen in the world. While the names of Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson, Steve Smith continue to be central to the discussions, the rise of Pakistan batsman Babar Azam has brought him into the debate. Former South Africa opener and now the head coach of Pakistan Super League (PSL) outfit Karachi Kings, Herschelle Gibbs has weighed his opinion on the matter as he said that Babar has the potential to replicate what Virat Kohli has done for India and in franchise cricket. Gibbs opined that Babar, for him, is in the top three batsmen in the world and has the hunger to become better each day. ALSO READ: Cricket: 'Couldn’t believe them' - Joe Root reacts to Ollie Robinson’s racist, sexist historical tweets “For me, he is in the top three batsmen in the world, across formats. He is a fantastic player, he knows his game and is hungry to score runs. It is always a sign that they want to become greater and better. If you look at Virat Kohli, Babar Azam is younger than him. There's nothing stopping Babar Azam from achieving what Kohli has achieved in the next decade or so,” Gibbs told Dawn News. “He has all the potential to become one of the greats in the world. He has made a fantastic start to his career and has got the technique to play in all conditions. He can become as good as Virat Kohli if not better,” the former South African cricketer added. ALSO READ: Cricket: Yuvraj Singh reveals why India will have 'slight disadvantage' in WTC Final vs New Zealand All eyes will be on Babar when Karachi Kings take the field for PSL 6 in Abu Dhabi in a bid to defend their title. Meanwhile, PSL 2021 is set to resume from June 9 in Abu Dhabi with the final scheduled for June 24. Earlier, the PSL was postponed amid multiple COVID-19 cases within the bio-secure bubble of the tournament.

Cricket: 'Can become as good as Virat Kohli' - Herschelle Gibbs gives his take on Babar Azam ahead of PSL resumption

England Test captain Joe Root was straight on point as he labelled Ollie Robinson’s controversial tweets as “not acceptable”. Back in 2012 and 2013, Robinson had come up with a few racist and sexist tweets that went viral during his England debut at Lord’s against New Zealand. <o:p></o:p>

While Robinson came out with a heartfelt apology, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has now decided to suspend the pacer from international cricket, pending investigation. Due to the decision, Robinson won’t be a part of the second Test against New Zealand at the Edgbaston, starting Thursday, and it remains to be seen whether he would be included in the squad for the five-Test series against India. <o:p></o:p>

The English all-rounder will now return to his County club, Sussex. While Root lauded him for a brilliant debut, the England Test skipper added that he couldn’t believe the tweets personally.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-ollie-robinson-suspended-from-international-cricket-over-racist-tweets-389879" hreflang="en">Cricket: Ollie Robinson suspended from international cricket over racist tweets</a>

<o:p></o:p>

“He’s contributed well with the bat, his performance with the ball was excellent. He’s showed high levels of skill and he’s definitely got the game that can be successful in Test cricket,” Root was quoted as saying in the post-match press conference.<o:p></o:p>

“But in regards to the stuff that’s happened off the field, it’s not acceptable within our game. We all know that. He addressed the dressing room straight away. He obviously spoke to you guys and other media outlets straight away, fronted up to it. He showed a lot of remorse from that point onwards. You can see it’s very genuine from how he’s been around the group and the team,” he stated.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-yuvraj-singh-reveals-why-india-will-have-slight-disadvantage-in-wtc-final-vs-new-zealand-389893" hreflang="en">Cricket: Yuvraj Singh reveals why India will have 'slight disadvantage' in WTC Final vs New Zealand</a><o:p></o:p>

“I couldn’t believe them [the tweets], personally. I didn’t really know how to take it on the surface. I think the most important thing is Ollie is part of this dressing room and we had to support him,” Root added.<o:p></o:p>

Root also opined that educating each other and trying to raise awareness among fans should also be paramount.<o:p></o:p>

England Test captain Joe Root was straight on point as he labelled Ollie Robinson’s controversial tweets as “not acceptable”. Back in 2012 and 2013, Robinson had come up with a few racist and sexist tweets that went viral during his England debut at Lord’s against New Zealand.

England Test captain Joe Root was straight on point as he labelled Ollie Robinson’s controversial tweets as “not acceptable”. Back in 2012 and 2013, Robinson had come up with a few racist and sexist tweets that went viral during his England debut at Lord’s against New Zealand. While Robinson came out with a heartfelt apology, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has now decided to suspend the pacer from international cricket, pending investigation. Due to the decision, Robinson won’t be a part of the second Test against New Zealand at the Edgbaston, starting Thursday, and it remains to be seen whether he would be included in the squad for the five-Test series against India. The English all-rounder will now return to his County club, Sussex. While Root lauded him for a brilliant debut, the England Test skipper added that he couldn’t believe the tweets personally. ALSO READ: Cricket: Ollie Robinson suspended from international cricket over racist tweets “He’s contributed well with the bat, his performance with the ball was excellent. He’s showed high levels of skill and he’s definitely got the game that can be successful in Test cricket,” Root was quoted as saying in the post-match press conference. “But in regards to the stuff that’s happened off the field, it’s not acceptable within our game. We all know that. He addressed the dressing room straight away. He obviously spoke to you guys and other media outlets straight away, fronted up to it. He showed a lot of remorse from that point onwards. You can see it’s very genuine from how he’s been around the group and the team,” he stated. ALSO READ: Cricket: Yuvraj Singh reveals why India will have 'slight disadvantage' in WTC Final vs New Zealand “I couldn’t believe them [the tweets], personally. I didn’t really know how to take it on the surface. I think the most important thing is Ollie is part of this dressing room and we had to support him,” Root added. Root also opined that educating each other and trying to raise awareness among fans should also be paramount.

Cricket: 'Couldn’t believe them' - Joe Root reacts to Ollie Robinson’s racist, sexist historical tweets

sports-news

Sports News, News on Sports News, stories on Sports News, articles on Sports News, Sports News stories at Wion, Sports News news, Sports News latest news

sports news