Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic will set their sights on more Grand Slam history at Roland Garros as the French Open embraces a new and eerily empty era of night time tennis.

A 14th title in Paris for Nadal would take him to a record-setting 21st major, surpassing the mark he shares with Roger Federer who has already written off his hopes of adding to his lone success in the French capital back in 2009.

Djokovic, the champion in 2016, can move to 19 Grand Slam titles with victory.

That would make the world number one the first man in over half a century to win all four majors on multiple occasions.

Nadal arrives in Paris buoyed by having defeated Djokovic in the Rome Masters final in what was the pair's 57th meeting.

It was Nadal's 10th title in the Italian capital.

Not that he was reading too much into the statistics as far as Roland Garros is concerned.

"I think I can work on a couple of things that I can do a little bit better," he insisted.

<h2>- 'Work right way' -</h2>

"I just need to keep going. I know what I need to work on and I'm going to do it. Work, relax mentally, and work the right way."

At last year's delayed Roland Garros, Nadal swept past Djokovic in straight sets in the final.

It was Nadal's 100th win at the tournament against just two losses since his 2005 title-winning debut.

Giving Djokovic hope, however, is the knowledge that he was responsible for one of those losses, in the 2015 quarter-finals.

He is also a four-time runner-up although three of those defeats in the championship match came against the Spaniard.

Only two men have previously managed to win all four of the Slams on more than one occasion -- Roy Emerson and Rod Laver of Australia.

Laver's achievement came back in 1969.

"I think I have a good chance to go all the way in Paris, but of course it's a long shot," said Djokovic who captured the season's first Grand Slam title in Australia for a ninth time in February.

Federer, with his 40th birthday fast approaching, remains the sentimental favourite but his priority will be an assault on Wimbledon where he has been champion eight times.

<h2>- Chasing pack -</h2>

"I'm not so sure in the last 50 years of the French Open, somebody just rocks up at nearly 40 years old, being out for a year and a half, and wins everything straight," said Federer after losing his only clay court match this year in Geneva last week.

Of the chasing pack, two-time runner-up Dominic Thiem is low on form and confidence.

A run to the Madrid semi-finals was followed by a straight sets defeat to Cameron Norrie in his Lyon opener.

World number two Daniil Medvedev has yet to win a match at Roland Garros in four attempts.

In Rome, he fell at the first hurdle and half-jokingly pleaded with the referee to disqualify him such is his dislike for clay.

World number five Stefanos Tsitsipas is the most likely man to upset the odds of Nadal and Djokovic again making the final.

The 22-year-old Greek won the prestigious Monte Carlo clay court title in April, had match point before losing the Barcelona final to Nadal and then lifted the Lyon trophy.

He has beaten Nadal on clay in Madrid in 2019 and stretched Djokovic to five sets at the 2020 French Open semi-finals.

This year's Roland Garros will be the second taking place under the shadow of the coronavirus.

Just over 5,000 fans a day will be allowed on site until June 9 when that figure rises to 13,000.

For the first time this year, there will be nine evening sessions at the tournament.

However, a Covid-19 curfew from 9pm means that eight of those sessions will be played out inside an empty Court Philippe Chatrier.

Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic will set their sights on more Grand Slam history at Roland Garros as the French Open embraces a new and eerily empty era of night time tennis.

Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic will set their sights on more Grand Slam history at Roland Garros as the French Open embraces a new and eerily empty era of night time tennis. A 14th title in Paris for Nadal would take him to a record-setting 21st major, surpassing the mark he shares with Roger Federer who has already written off his hopes of adding to his lone success in the French capital back in 2009. Djokovic, the champion in 2016, can move to 19 Grand Slam titles with victory. That would make the world number one the first man in over half a century to win all four majors on multiple occasions. Nadal arrives in Paris buoyed by having defeated Djokovic in the Rome Masters final in what was the pair's 57th meeting. It was Nadal's 10th title in the Italian capital. Not that he was reading too much into the statistics as far as Roland Garros is concerned. "I think I can work on a couple of things that I can do a little bit better," he insisted. - 'Work right way' - "I just need to keep going. I know what I need to work on and I'm going to do it. Work, relax mentally, and work the right way." At last year's delayed Roland Garros, Nadal swept past Djokovic in straight sets in the final. It was Nadal's 100th win at the tournament against just two losses since his 2005 title-winning debut. Giving Djokovic hope, however, is the knowledge that he was responsible for one of those losses, in the 2015 quarter-finals. He is also a four-time runner-up although three of those defeats in the championship match came against the Spaniard. Only two men have previously managed to win all four of the Slams on more than one occasion -- Roy Emerson and Rod Laver of Australia. Laver's achievement came back in 1969. "I think I have a good chance to go all the way in Paris, but of course it's a long shot," said Djokovic who captured the season's first Grand Slam title in Australia for a ninth time in February. Federer, with his 40th birthday fast approaching, remains the sentimental favourite but his priority will be an assault on Wimbledon where he has been champion eight times. - Chasing pack - "I'm not so sure in the last 50 years of the French Open, somebody just rocks up at nearly 40 years old, being out for a year and a half, and wins everything straight," said Federer after losing his only clay court match this year in Geneva last week. Of the chasing pack, two-time runner-up Dominic Thiem is low on form and confidence. A run to the Madrid semi-finals was followed by a straight sets defeat to Cameron Norrie in his Lyon opener. World number two Daniil Medvedev has yet to win a match at Roland Garros in four attempts. In Rome, he fell at the first hurdle and half-jokingly pleaded with the referee to disqualify him such is his dislike for clay. World number five Stefanos Tsitsipas is the most likely man to upset the odds of Nadal and Djokovic again making the final. The 22-year-old Greek won the prestigious Monte Carlo clay court title in April, had match point before losing the Barcelona final to Nadal and then lifted the Lyon trophy. He has beaten Nadal on clay in Madrid in 2019 and stretched Djokovic to five sets at the 2020 French Open semi-finals. This year's Roland Garros will be the second taking place under the shadow of the coronavirus. Just over 5,000 fans a day will be allowed on site until June 9 when that figure rises to 13,000. For the first time this year, there will be nine evening sessions at the tournament. However, a Covid-19 curfew from 9pm means that eight of those sessions will be played out inside an empty Court Philippe Chatrier.

Tennis: Nadal, Djokovic eye history as Roland Garros embraces quiet night in

Real Madrid's Karim Benzema said he's targeting a trophy with France after he was recalled to their provisional Euro 2020 squad following a controversial, six-year international exile.

The prolific star, sidelined by Les Bleus since 2015 over his alleged role in a blackmail plot, missed out on France's 2018 World Cup win and their run to the Euro 2016 final on home soil.

Benzema, 33, told L'Equipe he was "proud" of his call-up, which followed talks with France coach Didier Deschamps earlier this month.

"I want to win a trophy with the French team," he said, adding that he hoped to "bring a little bit extra" to the World Cup-winners.

Benzema, who has 27 goals in 81 international appearances, was last week named as this season's best French foreign-based player by the country's players' association.

He top-scored for Real Madrid with 29 goals this term, passing 20 league goals in all three seasons since Cristiano Ronaldo left for Juventus in 2018.

Benzema has repeatedly criticised Deschamps and the French Football Federation for being dropped, citing racism as a factor in his axing from the Euro 2016 squad.

But he said those differences were in the past after his conversation with the coach.

"We said many things. Things that we needed to say for a long time. It was a good explanation, with important words," Benzema said.

He added: "I'm not coming to the French team to overshadow anyone or to take anyone's place. ... I am here to bring what I know."

France kick off their Euro 2020 campaign against three-time winners Germany in Munich on June 15, and also face Hungary and holders Portugal in Group F.

Real Madrid's Karim Benzema said he's targeting a trophy with France after he was recalled to their provisional Euro 2020 squad following a controversial, six-year international exile.

Real Madrid's Karim Benzema said he's targeting a trophy with France after he was recalled to their provisional Euro 2020 squad following a controversial, six-year international exile. The prolific star, sidelined by Les Bleus since 2015 over his alleged role in a blackmail plot, missed out on France's 2018 World Cup win and their run to the Euro 2016 final on home soil. Benzema, 33, told L'Equipe he was "proud" of his call-up, which followed talks with France coach Didier Deschamps earlier this month. "I want to win a trophy with the French team," he said, adding that he hoped to "bring a little bit extra" to the World Cup-winners. Benzema, who has 27 goals in 81 international appearances, was last week named as this season's best French foreign-based player by the country's players' association. He top-scored for Real Madrid with 29 goals this term, passing 20 league goals in all three seasons since Cristiano Ronaldo left for Juventus in 2018. Benzema has repeatedly criticised Deschamps and the French Football Federation for being dropped, citing racism as a factor in his axing from the Euro 2016 squad. But he said those differences were in the past after his conversation with the coach. "We said many things. Things that we needed to say for a long time. It was a good explanation, with important words," Benzema said. He added: "I'm not coming to the French team to overshadow anyone or to take anyone's place. ... I am here to bring what I know." France kick off their Euro 2020 campaign against three-time winners Germany in Munich on June 15, and also face Hungary and holders Portugal in Group F.

Football: 'I want a trophy' - Benzema eyes silverware after long France exile

Gareth Southgate on Tuesday announced a provisional 33-member squad for Euro 2020 as the England manager&nbsp;bought time to finalise the 26-man squad for the finals which start on June 11.<o:p></o:p>

Uncapped defenders Ben Godfrey and Ben White were named in the provisional England squad while the likes of Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Eric Dier and Danny Ings missed out on a call-up.<o:p></o:p>

The England boss will hope to avoid further injuries, with 12 of the squad members involved in the European finals this week. While Manchester United take on Villarreal in the final of the Europa League, Manchester City and Chelsea lock horns in an all-English Champions League final on Saturday.<o:p></o:p>

Harry Maguire, Jordan Henderson found their place in the squad along with Kalvin Phillips and Trent Alexander-Arnold following speculations that the Liverpool right-back might miss out on the final squad despite return to form in the final weeks of the season.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-cristiano-ronaldo-says-achieved-his-goal-at-juventus-387256" hreflang="en">Football: Cristiano Ronaldo says achieved his goal at Juventus</a>

<o:p></o:p>

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Ahead of naming his final <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EURO2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EURO2020</a> squad next week, Gareth Southgate has selected 33 players to join up with the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ThreeLions?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ThreeLions</a> from this weekend as our preparations for this summer's tournament get under way.
— England (@England) <a href="https://twitter.com/England/status/1397160519316897793?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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England face Austria on June 2 and Romania four days later in pre-tournament friendlies at Middlesbrough's Riverside Stadium.<o:p></o:p>

The Three Lions begin their Euro 2020 campaign against Croatia on June 13 before facing Scotland and the Czech Republic in Group D.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-hansi-flick-named-new-germany-head-coach-to-succeed-joachim-loew-after-euro-2020-387259" hreflang="en">Football: Hansi Flick named new Germany head coach, to succeed Joachim Loew after Euro 2020</a><o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Provisional England squad for Euro 2020:<o:p></o:p></h2>

Goalkeepers: Jordan Pickford (Everton), Dean Henderson (Manchester United), Sam Johnstone (West Brom), Aaron Ramsdale (Sheffield United)<o:p></o:p>

Defenders: Luke Shaw, Harry Maguire (Manchester United), Ben Chilwell, Reece James (Chelsea), John Stones, Kyle Walker (Manchester City), Tyrone Mings (Aston Villa), Conor Coady (Wolves) Kieran Trippier (Atletico Madrid/ESP), Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool), Ben Godfrey (Everton), Ben White (Brighton)<o:p></o:p>

Midfielders: Declan Rice, Jesse Lingard (West Ham), Jordan Henderson (Liverpool), Kalvin Phillips (Leeds), Mason Mount (Chelsea), Jude Bellingham (Borussia Dortmund/GER), James Ward-Prowse (Southampton)<o:p></o:p>

Forwards: Phil Foden, Raheem Sterling (Manchester City), Jack Grealish (Aston Villa), Harry Kane (Tottenham), Marcus Rashford, Mason Greenwood (Manchester United), Jadon Sancho (Borussia Dortmund/GER), Dominic Calvert-Lewin (Everton), Bukayo Saka (Arsenal), Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa)<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

Gareth Southgate on Tuesday announced a provisional 33-member squad for Euro 2020 as the England manager bought time to finalise the 26-man squad for the finals which start on June 11.

Gareth Southgate on Tuesday announced a provisional 33-member squad for Euro 2020 as the England manager bought time to finalise the 26-man squad for the finals which start on June 11. Uncapped defenders Ben Godfrey and Ben White were named in the provisional England squad while the likes of Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Eric Dier and Danny Ings missed out on a call-up. The England boss will hope to avoid further injuries, with 12 of the squad members involved in the European finals this week. While Manchester United take on Villarreal in the final of the Europa League, Manchester City and Chelsea lock horns in an all-English Champions League final on Saturday. Harry Maguire, Jordan Henderson found their place in the squad along with Kalvin Phillips and Trent Alexander-Arnold following speculations that the Liverpool right-back might miss out on the final squad despite return to form in the final weeks of the season. ALSO READ: Football: Cristiano Ronaldo says achieved his goal at Juventus Ahead of naming his final #EURO2020 squad next week, Gareth Southgate has selected 33 players to join up with the #ThreeLions from this weekend as our preparations for this summer's tournament get under way. — England (@England) May 25, 2021 × England face Austria on June 2 and Romania four days later in pre-tournament friendlies at Middlesbrough's Riverside Stadium. The Three Lions begin their Euro 2020 campaign against Croatia on June 13 before facing Scotland and the Czech Republic in Group D. ALSO READ: Football: Hansi Flick named new Germany head coach, to succeed Joachim Loew after Euro 2020 Provisional England squad for Euro 2020: Goalkeepers: Jordan Pickford (Everton), Dean Henderson (Manchester United), Sam Johnstone (West Brom), Aaron Ramsdale (Sheffield United) Defenders: Luke Shaw, Harry Maguire (Manchester United), Ben Chilwell, Reece James (Chelsea), John Stones, Kyle Walker (Manchester City), Tyrone Mings (Aston Villa), Conor Coady (Wolves) Kieran Trippier (Atletico Madrid/ESP), Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool), Ben Godfrey (Everton), Ben White (Brighton) Midfielders: Declan Rice, Jesse Lingard (West Ham), Jordan Henderson (Liverpool), Kalvin Phillips (Leeds), Mason Mount (Chelsea), Jude Bellingham (Borussia Dortmund/GER), James Ward-Prowse (Southampton) Forwards: Phil Foden, Raheem Sterling (Manchester City), Jack Grealish (Aston Villa), Harry Kane (Tottenham), Marcus Rashford, Mason Greenwood (Manchester United), Jadon Sancho (Borussia Dortmund/GER), Dominic Calvert-Lewin (Everton), Bukayo Saka (Arsenal), Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa)

Football: Trent Alexander-Arnold included as England announced provisional squad for Euro 2020

UEFA on Tuesday announced that up to 16,500 spectators will be allowed to attend the UEFA Champions League final between Manchester City and Chelsea on Sunday in Porto. The ticket sales for the match opened on Tuesday.<o:p></o:p>

The figure allowed by the Portuguese authorities stands at one-third of the capacity of the Estadio do Dragao, which took over the hosting after Istanbul was ruled out due to COVID-19 issues.<o:p></o:p>

UEFA has already allocated as many as 6,000 tickets to each Chelsea and Man City. <o:p></o:p>

To this will be added the traditional invitations, as well as "1,700 tickets reserved for the general public" which "will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis".<o:p></o:p>

Tickets for the UCL final cost from 70 euros to 600 euros -- against a range of 40 to 130 euros for Wednesday's Europa League final in Gdansk between Manchester United and Villareal.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-luke-shaw-wants-manchester-united-to-strengthen-the-squad-in-the-transfer-window-387314" hreflang="en">Football: Luke Shaw wants Manchester United to strengthen the squad in the transfer window</a><o:p></o:p>

Spectators will “require proof of a negative Covid-19 test" to enter the stadium. Fans coming from abroad "will have to comply with border entry restrictions and requirements that will be in force". <o:p></o:p>

With Portugal being on the green list of British government, players or fans won’t have to quarantine upon returning home.<o:p></o:p>

However, the UK, as a host, was ruled out due to entry restrictions and quarantine protocols for the media, officials, and guests – which was deemed as unpractical.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-cristiano-ronaldo-says-achieved-his-goal-at-juventus-387256" hreflang="en">Football: Cristiano Ronaldo says achieved his goal at Juventus</a><o:p></o:p>

Portugal also hosted the "Final 8" in 2020 which allowed the Champions League to finish in the pandemic.<o:p></o:p>

UEFA on Tuesday announced that up to 16,500 spectators will be allowed to attend the UEFA Champions League final between Manchester City and Chelsea on Sunday in Porto.

UEFA on Tuesday announced that up to 16,500 spectators will be allowed to attend the UEFA Champions League final between Manchester City and Chelsea on Sunday in Porto. The ticket sales for the match opened on Tuesday. The figure allowed by the Portuguese authorities stands at one-third of the capacity of the Estadio do Dragao, which took over the hosting after Istanbul was ruled out due to COVID-19 issues. UEFA has already allocated as many as 6,000 tickets to each Chelsea and Man City. To this will be added the traditional invitations, as well as "1,700 tickets reserved for the general public" which "will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis". Tickets for the UCL final cost from 70 euros to 600 euros -- against a range of 40 to 130 euros for Wednesday's Europa League final in Gdansk between Manchester United and Villareal. ALSO READ: Football: Luke Shaw wants Manchester United to strengthen the squad in the transfer window Spectators will “require proof of a negative Covid-19 test" to enter the stadium. Fans coming from abroad "will have to comply with border entry restrictions and requirements that will be in force". With Portugal being on the green list of British government, players or fans won’t have to quarantine upon returning home. However, the UK, as a host, was ruled out due to entry restrictions and quarantine protocols for the media, officials, and guests – which was deemed as unpractical. ALSO READ: Football: Cristiano Ronaldo says achieved his goal at Juventus Portugal also hosted the "Final 8" in 2020 which allowed the Champions League to finish in the pandemic.

Football: 16,500 spectators allowed in Porto for UEFA Champions League final

Mohammad Amir, Shoaib Malik and Sandeep Lamichhane will be playing at the 2021 Caribbean Premier League which takes place in St Kitts and Nevis in August and September. <o:p></o:p>

The Barbados Tridents have secured the services of Pakistani left-arm seamer Mohammad Amir. With 220 T20 wickets to his name, 59 of them coming in international matches, Amir has a huge amount of experience and a track record of success across the globe.<o:p></o:p>

Shoaib Malik returns to the Guyana Amazon Warriors. Malik was central to the success of the Amazon Warriors in 2019 when they won 11 consecutive matches. Malik has played 417 T20 matches and won 12 trophies in the format. <o:p></o:p>

Sandeep Lamichhane joins the Trinbago Knight Riders for the 2021 season. He has played at the CPL for the last three seasons, impressing with St Kitts &amp; Nevis Patriots, Barbados Tridents and Jamaica Tallawahs. The leg-spinner has become a regular in T20 tournaments around the globe and will add potency to the Knight Riders attack.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-ipl-2021-expected-to-resume-on-september-19-20-in-the-uae-report-387307" hreflang="en">Cricket: IPL 2021 expected to resume on September 19-20 in the UAE - Report</a><o:p></o:p>

The complete squads for CPL 2021 will be revealed on the draft show which will be broadcast on Friday 28 May at 9am ECT | 2pm GMT | 6:30pm IST. <o:p></o:p>

First started in 2013, the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) is a franchise-based T20 format cricket tournament that combines two of the most compelling aspects of Caribbean life – dramatic cricket and a vibrant Carnival atmosphere.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-mayank-agarwal-began-doubting-himself-after-playing-xi-snub-says-childhood-coach-387263" hreflang="en">Cricket: Mayank Agarwal began 'doubting' himself after playing XI snub, says childhood coach</a>

Trinbago Knight Riders are the current Hero CPL champions and the other competing teams are Barbados Tridents, Guyana Amazon Warriors, St. Kitts &amp; Nevis Patriots, St. Lucia Zouks and Jamaica Tallawahs. The 2021 tournament gets underway in St Kitts &amp; Nevis in August and September.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

Mohammad Amir, Shoaib Malik and Sandeep Lamichhane will be playing at the 2021 Caribbean Premier League which takes place in St Kitts and Nevis in August and September.

Mohammad Amir, Shoaib Malik and Sandeep Lamichhane will be playing at the 2021 Caribbean Premier League which takes place in St Kitts and Nevis in August and September. The Barbados Tridents have secured the services of Pakistani left-arm seamer Mohammad Amir. With 220 T20 wickets to his name, 59 of them coming in international matches, Amir has a huge amount of experience and a track record of success across the globe. Shoaib Malik returns to the Guyana Amazon Warriors. Malik was central to the success of the Amazon Warriors in 2019 when they won 11 consecutive matches. Malik has played 417 T20 matches and won 12 trophies in the format. Sandeep Lamichhane joins the Trinbago Knight Riders for the 2021 season. He has played at the CPL for the last three seasons, impressing with St Kitts & Nevis Patriots, Barbados Tridents and Jamaica Tallawahs. The leg-spinner has become a regular in T20 tournaments around the globe and will add potency to the Knight Riders attack. ALSO READ: Cricket: IPL 2021 expected to resume on September 19-20 in the UAE - Report The complete squads for CPL 2021 will be revealed on the draft show which will be broadcast on Friday 28 May at 9am ECT | 2pm GMT | 6:30pm IST. First started in 2013, the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) is a franchise-based T20 format cricket tournament that combines two of the most compelling aspects of Caribbean life – dramatic cricket and a vibrant Carnival atmosphere. ALSO READ: Cricket: Mayank Agarwal began 'doubting' himself after playing XI snub, says childhood coach Trinbago Knight Riders are the current Hero CPL champions and the other competing teams are Barbados Tridents, Guyana Amazon Warriors, St. Kitts & Nevis Patriots, St. Lucia Zouks and Jamaica Tallawahs. The 2021 tournament gets underway in St Kitts & Nevis in August and September.

Cricket: Amir, Malik and Lamichhane sign for Caribbean Premier League 2021

The postponed Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 is expected to resume mid-September in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) with the final likely to be played on October 10. The IPL 2021 was indefinitely postponed after multiple COVID-19 cases emerged across a few teams inside the bio-secure bubble. <o:p></o:p>

According to Sports Today, the IPL 2021 is likely to be resumed in September with the BCCI holding talks with various stakeholders and various national cricket boards. <o:p></o:p>

However, there will be no change in the itinerary of the five-Test series between India and England, which is scheduled to end on September 14. The players are expected to fly to the UAE immediately after the conclusion of India-England and they are unlikely to undergo hard quarantine upon landing in the UAE with a bubble-to-bubble switch on cards.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-team-india-undergoing-quarantine-in-two-groups-ahead-of-england-tour-387235" hreflang="en">Cricket: Team India undergoing quarantine in two groups ahead of England tour</a><o:p></o:p>

Furthermore, there will be negotiations with the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2021 to end the tournament slightly earlier for the players to be available for the remainder of IPL 2021. Reportedly, the Trinbago Knight Riders will help the BCCI with the re-scheduling of CPL 2021. &nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

The reportage in Sports Today stated that the BCCI is looking for 10 double-headers, seven single-day matches and four play-off matches in a bid to complete the remainder of IPL 2021 in the UAE.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-who-will-win-india-vs-new-zealand-world-test-championship-final-richard-hadlee-gives-his-take-387240" hreflang="en">Cricket: Who will win India vs New Zealand, World Test Championship Final? Richard Hadlee gives his take</a><o:p></o:p>

Notably, IPL 2020 was held in the UAE without major problems as franchises competed in the tournament played across three venues. Mumbai Indians came victorious in the tournament to lift their fifth IPL trophy.<o:p></o:p><o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

The postponed Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 is expected to resume mid-September in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) with the final likely to be played on October 10.

The postponed Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 is expected to resume mid-September in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) with the final likely to be played on October 10. The IPL 2021 was indefinitely postponed after multiple COVID-19 cases emerged across a few teams inside the bio-secure bubble. According to Sports Today, the IPL 2021 is likely to be resumed in September with the BCCI holding talks with various stakeholders and various national cricket boards. However, there will be no change in the itinerary of the five-Test series between India and England, which is scheduled to end on September 14. The players are expected to fly to the UAE immediately after the conclusion of India-England and they are unlikely to undergo hard quarantine upon landing in the UAE with a bubble-to-bubble switch on cards. ALSO READ: Cricket: Team India undergoing quarantine in two groups ahead of England tour Furthermore, there will be negotiations with the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2021 to end the tournament slightly earlier for the players to be available for the remainder of IPL 2021. Reportedly, the Trinbago Knight Riders will help the BCCI with the re-scheduling of CPL 2021. The reportage in Sports Today stated that the BCCI is looking for 10 double-headers, seven single-day matches and four play-off matches in a bid to complete the remainder of IPL 2021 in the UAE. ALSO READ: Cricket: Who will win India vs New Zealand, World Test Championship Final? Richard Hadlee gives his take Notably, IPL 2020 was held in the UAE without major problems as franchises competed in the tournament played across three venues. Mumbai Indians came victorious in the tournament to lift their fifth IPL trophy.

Cricket: IPL 2021 expected to resume on September 19-20 in the UAE - Report

Outgoing Bayern Munich manager Hansi Flick will succeed his former boss Joachim Loew in the Germany squad after the Euro 2020, the German FA (DFB) announced on Tuesday.<o:p></o:p>

Flick expressed his delight in penning the contract as he said he is “very happy” to become the head coach of the Germany football team. Flick was an assistant to current head coach Loew at Euro 2008 and 2012 while also being a part of the Germany camp that won the FIFA World Cup 2014 in Brazil. The outgoing Bayern Munich manager has signed a three-year deal through to 2024.<o:p></o:p>

"It's all gone surprisingly quickly, but I am very happy to be Germany coach from the autumn," said Flick, 56, after signing a three-year contract to succeed Loew, who will leave the job after 15 years in charge later this year.<o:p></o:p>

The 56-year-old guided Bayern Munich to six major titles during his tenure at the Allianz Arena. Notably, Loew will be stepping down from the national team post after the conclusion of Euro 2020 – bringing an end to his 15-year-stay with the Die Mannschaft.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-pep-guardiola-wins-lma-manager-of-the-year-387233" hreflang="en">Football: Pep Guardiola wins LMA Manager of the Year</a><o:p></o:p>

"I'm really looking forward to it because I can see the great quality of the players, especially the young players in Germany. That's is why we have every reason to approach the upcoming tournaments with optimism, for example, the European Championship at home in 2024.<o:p></o:p>

"In addition, I know from experience of working with [DFB National Teams and Academy director] Oliver Bierhoff that I have a strong, trustworthy partner by my side and who will behind the scenes so that the team, we trainers and staff can get started without a long start-up time,” Flick added.<o:p></o:p>

Flick went on to pass on his best wishes to Loew and his team for the European championship, set to commence in June as he said that the German boss deserved a big end to his career as national coach.

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"I am also looking forward to contributing my ideas and ideas beyond the national team to the academy and the other national teams. <o:p></o:p>

"The important thing now is not what will happen in September - I will contact you in detail in August - but the upcoming European Championship, for which I wish Jogi Löw, Marcus Sorg, Andy Köpke and the team the greatest possible success. <o:p></o:p>

"Jogi Löw has more than deserved a big end to his career as national coach."<o:p></o:p>

Outgoing Bayern Munich manager Hansi Flick will succeed his former boss Joachim Loew in the Germany squad after the Euro 2020, the German FA (DFB) announced on Tuesday.

Outgoing Bayern Munich manager Hansi Flick will succeed his former boss Joachim Loew in the Germany squad after the Euro 2020, the German FA (DFB) announced on Tuesday. Flick expressed his delight in penning the contract as he said he is “very happy” to become the head coach of the Germany football team. Flick was an assistant to current head coach Loew at Euro 2008 and 2012 while also being a part of the Germany camp that won the FIFA World Cup 2014 in Brazil. The outgoing Bayern Munich manager has signed a three-year deal through to 2024. "It's all gone surprisingly quickly, but I am very happy to be Germany coach from the autumn," said Flick, 56, after signing a three-year contract to succeed Loew, who will leave the job after 15 years in charge later this year. The 56-year-old guided Bayern Munich to six major titles during his tenure at the Allianz Arena. Notably, Loew will be stepping down from the national team post after the conclusion of Euro 2020 – bringing an end to his 15-year-stay with the Die Mannschaft. ALSO READ: Football: Pep Guardiola wins LMA Manager of the Year "I'm really looking forward to it because I can see the great quality of the players, especially the young players in Germany. That's is why we have every reason to approach the upcoming tournaments with optimism, for example, the European Championship at home in 2024. "In addition, I know from experience of working with [DFB National Teams and Academy director] Oliver Bierhoff that I have a strong, trustworthy partner by my side and who will behind the scenes so that the team, we trainers and staff can get started without a long start-up time,” Flick added. Flick went on to pass on his best wishes to Loew and his team for the European championship, set to commence in June as he said that the German boss deserved a big end to his career as national coach. ALSO READ: Football: 'I want a trophy' - Benzema eyes silverware after long France exile "I am also looking forward to contributing my ideas and ideas beyond the national team to the academy and the other national teams. "The important thing now is not what will happen in September - I will contact you in detail in August - but the upcoming European Championship, for which I wish Jogi Löw, Marcus Sorg, Andy Köpke and the team the greatest possible success. "Jogi Löw has more than deserved a big end to his career as national coach."

Football: Hansi Flick named new Germany head coach, to succeed Joachim Loew after Euro 2020

Cricketing legend Richard Hadlee has given his take on the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship Final between New Zealand and India as he said that he is looking forward to the clash between two of the best bowling and batting sides in the sport.<o:p></o:p>

The Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson led India and New Zealand, respectively, finished first and second on the ICC WTC points table. The two sides will now take each other on in the summit clash, at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton from June 18 to 22. <o:p></o:p>

Hadlee is of the view that while cooler conditions could favour the Black Caps, the match will be decided by which side adapts to the tricky conditions the best and quickest. However, the Kiwi legend said that it is too difficult to predict a winner at this stage. <o:p></o:p>

"It all comes down as to who is better prepared and who adapts better to the English conditions the quickest," he said. "The weather may also play a part and if it is cold that will favour New Zealand. The Duke ball will suit both team’s fast bowlers especially the genuine swing bowlers and the Kiwis are well served in that department with Southee, Boult and Jamieson. If the ball seams around off the pitch, batsmen in both teams will be challenged.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-ipl-postponement-to-help-india-prepare-better-for-wtc-final-reckons-ross-taylor-387216" hreflang="en">Cricket: IPL postponement to help India prepare better for WTC final, reckons Ross Taylor</a><o:p></o:p>

"Both teams have high-class batsmen so it will be an interesting game to watch. It is too difficult to call a winner at this stage."<o:p></o:p>

New Zealand suffered back-to-back defeats in the last two ICC World Cup Finals but Hadlee is confident that they won’t head into the match under any sort of pressure. <o:p></o:p>

"We have a proud record in 50 over World Cups. Yes, those near misses were frustrating and disappointing but we were so close to winning in 2019 at Lord’s. I would go as far as to say there were no winners and losers on that day – it was just by a technicality that England won!

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-the-world-stops-a-little-bit-tim-seifert-recalls-covid-19-ordeal-in-india-during-ipl-2021-387209" hreflang="en">Cricket: 'The world stops a little bit': Tim Seifert recalls COVID-19 ordeal in India during IPL 2021</a>

<o:p></o:p>

"The Test Championship is a one-off game. Yes, it is a final, but I don’t think either team will be too fazed about it. It is a neutral ground with no home team advantage," he said.<o:p></o:p>

&nbsp;"The Test Championship is a one-off game. Yes, it is a final, but I don’t think either team will be too fazed about it. It is a neutral ground with no home team advantage.<o:p></o:p>

"It is something to look forward to. Both teams deserve to be contesting the final because of their consistent playing performances over a set period of time."<o:p></o:p>

Cricketing legend Richard Hadlee has given his take on the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship Final between New Zealand and India as he said that he is looking forward to the clash between two of the best bowling and batting sides in the sport.

Cricketing legend Richard Hadlee has given his take on the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship Final between New Zealand and India as he said that he is looking forward to the clash between two of the best bowling and batting sides in the sport. The Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson led India and New Zealand, respectively, finished first and second on the ICC WTC points table. The two sides will now take each other on in the summit clash, at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton from June 18 to 22. Hadlee is of the view that while cooler conditions could favour the Black Caps, the match will be decided by which side adapts to the tricky conditions the best and quickest. However, the Kiwi legend said that it is too difficult to predict a winner at this stage. "It all comes down as to who is better prepared and who adapts better to the English conditions the quickest," he said. "The weather may also play a part and if it is cold that will favour New Zealand. The Duke ball will suit both team’s fast bowlers especially the genuine swing bowlers and the Kiwis are well served in that department with Southee, Boult and Jamieson. If the ball seams around off the pitch, batsmen in both teams will be challenged. ALSO READ: Cricket: IPL postponement to help India prepare better for WTC final, reckons Ross Taylor "Both teams have high-class batsmen so it will be an interesting game to watch. It is too difficult to call a winner at this stage." New Zealand suffered back-to-back defeats in the last two ICC World Cup Finals but Hadlee is confident that they won’t head into the match under any sort of pressure. "We have a proud record in 50 over World Cups. Yes, those near misses were frustrating and disappointing but we were so close to winning in 2019 at Lord’s. I would go as far as to say there were no winners and losers on that day – it was just by a technicality that England won! ALSO READ: Cricket: 'The world stops a little bit': Tim Seifert recalls COVID-19 ordeal in India during IPL 2021 "The Test Championship is a one-off game. Yes, it is a final, but I don’t think either team will be too fazed about it. It is a neutral ground with no home team advantage," he said. "The Test Championship is a one-off game. Yes, it is a final, but I don’t think either team will be too fazed about it. It is a neutral ground with no home team advantage. "It is something to look forward to. Both teams deserve to be contesting the final because of their consistent playing performances over a set period of time."

Cricket: Who will win India vs New Zealand, World Test Championship Final? Richard Hadlee gives his take

Pep Guardiola has been named Manager of the Year by the League Manager’s Association. Adapting to the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, Guardiola guided Manchester City to a third Premier League title in four seasons and a fourth consecutive League Cup.

On Saturday, Guardiola and his players will compete in a first Champions League final in the Club’s history. Voted for by fellow managers, it is the second time the City boss has been awarded the prize, having previously done so in recognition of the 2017/18 Centurions season.

Pep Guardiola: “I am delighted to win this award for the second time, but an award like this is only possible if a manager is surrounded by top professionals. “My players have been fantastic – their dedication and professionalism never waver, even in a season that has been the most challenging we have ever faced.

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“And my staff are also deserving of the highest praise. I am so lucky to have a team of people who give everything they have every single day to make sure Manchester City are the best we can be. “This award is dedicated to and shared with them.”

Director of Football Txiki Begiristain added: “Pep deserves this award, absolutely. To win the Premier League and Carabao Cup, as well as reach the final Champions League final, in the most trying season we’ve ever seen, says everything about his quality as a manager.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/champions-manchester-city-fans-take-to-streets-after-premier-league-win-384449" hreflang="en">'CHAMPIONS': Manchester City fans take to streets after Premier League win</a>

“He has shown an outstanding ability to constantly innovate. With the challenges presented by COVID-19, he’s had to adapt to a new way of working. He’s done it brilliantly and our results say everything you need to know. “And it isn’t just the results - the way we have played has been fantastic. The style of football is exactly what we want from a Manchester City team.”

Pep Guardiola has been named Manager of the Year by the League Manager’s Association. Adapting to the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, Guardiola guided Manchester City to a third Premier League title in four seasons and a fourth consecutive League Cup.

Pep Guardiola has been named Manager of the Year by the League Manager’s Association. Adapting to the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, Guardiola guided Manchester City to a third Premier League title in four seasons and a fourth consecutive League Cup. On Saturday, Guardiola and his players will compete in a first Champions League final in the Club’s history. Voted for by fellow managers, it is the second time the City boss has been awarded the prize, having previously done so in recognition of the 2017/18 Centurions season. Pep Guardiola: “I am delighted to win this award for the second time, but an award like this is only possible if a manager is surrounded by top professionals. “My players have been fantastic – their dedication and professionalism never waver, even in a season that has been the most challenging we have ever faced. ALSO READ: Football: From Manchester to Montevideo - City Football Group targets global domination “And my staff are also deserving of the highest praise. I am so lucky to have a team of people who give everything they have every single day to make sure Manchester City are the best we can be. “This award is dedicated to and shared with them.” Director of Football Txiki Begiristain added: “Pep deserves this award, absolutely. To win the Premier League and Carabao Cup, as well as reach the final Champions League final, in the most trying season we’ve ever seen, says everything about his quality as a manager. ALSO READ: 'CHAMPIONS': Manchester City fans take to streets after Premier League win “He has shown an outstanding ability to constantly innovate. With the challenges presented by COVID-19, he’s had to adapt to a new way of working. He’s done it brilliantly and our results say everything you need to know. “And it isn’t just the results - the way we have played has been fantastic. The style of football is exactly what we want from a Manchester City team.”

Football: Pep Guardiola wins LMA Manager of the Year

The United States warned its citizens Monday not to travel to Olympic host Japan, citing the growing risk of the Covid-19 pandemic in the Asian nation just two months before the Games begin.

But the US Olympic and Paralympic Committee said it was still "confident" that American athletes will be able to participate this summer in Tokyo.

The warning came in a travel advisory issued by the State Department as Japan, which has been criticized for its slow inoculation rate, opened its first mass vaccination centers in a push ahead of the Olympics, which were postponed last year due to the pandemic.

The decision was based primarily on government health advice, as well as "secondary factors such as  commercial flight availability,  restrictions on US citizen entry, and impediments to obtaining Covid test results within three calendar days," the advisory said. 

Just two percent of Japan's population of 125 million has been fully vaccinated so far.

The government aims to finish inoculating the over-65s by late July, when the Olympics begin, but ministers say the Games do not figure in their rollout schedule, and no date has been announced for other age groups.

In Tokyo, government spokesman Katsunobu Kato said the US advisory would not affect the Olympics.

"It is our understanding that there is no change to the US position to support Japan's effort to hold the Olympic and Paralympic Games," he told a regular briefing.

He said Japan had been briefed that the advisory would not impact the US Olympic team and noted the measure was not a ban.

The US Olympic and Paralympic Committee also played down the impact of the travel advisory.

"We feel confident that the current mitigation practices in place for athletes and staff... coupled with the testing before travel, on arrival in Japan, and during Games time, will allow for safe participation of Team USA athletes this summer," it said in a statement.

A State Department spokesman said Washington understands "the careful considerations that the Japanese government and the International Olympic Committee are weighing as they prepare for the Tokyo Olympics this summer."

"President Biden proudly supports the US athletes who have trained for these Games and will be competing in the best traditions of the Olympic spirit," he said.

Japan has seen a relatively small coronavirus outbreak, with around 12,000 deaths overall, but a recent surge in infections has put hospitals under strain.

Tokyo, Osaka and eight other regions are under a state of emergency curbing commercial activity until the end of May, with reports saying the measures could be extended.

Public opinion is largely opposed to holding the Olympics this summer but organizers say the event can be held safely.

The majority of athletes and others staying in the Olympic village will be vaccinated before they enter Japan, but inoculation is not required to participate.

The United States warned its citizens Monday not to travel to Olympic host Japan, citing the growing risk of the Covid-19 pandemic in the Asian nation just two months before the Games begin.

The United States warned its citizens Monday not to travel to Olympic host Japan, citing the growing risk of the Covid-19 pandemic in the Asian nation just two months before the Games begin. But the US Olympic and Paralympic Committee said it was still "confident" that American athletes will be able to participate this summer in Tokyo. The warning came in a travel advisory issued by the State Department as Japan, which has been criticized for its slow inoculation rate, opened its first mass vaccination centers in a push ahead of the Olympics, which were postponed last year due to the pandemic. The decision was based primarily on government health advice, as well as "secondary factors such as  commercial flight availability,  restrictions on US citizen entry, and impediments to obtaining Covid test results within three calendar days," the advisory said.  Just two percent of Japan's population of 125 million has been fully vaccinated so far. The government aims to finish inoculating the over-65s by late July, when the Olympics begin, but ministers say the Games do not figure in their rollout schedule, and no date has been announced for other age groups. In Tokyo, government spokesman Katsunobu Kato said the US advisory would not affect the Olympics. "It is our understanding that there is no change to the US position to support Japan's effort to hold the Olympic and Paralympic Games," he told a regular briefing. He said Japan had been briefed that the advisory would not impact the US Olympic team and noted the measure was not a ban. The US Olympic and Paralympic Committee also played down the impact of the travel advisory. "We feel confident that the current mitigation practices in place for athletes and staff... coupled with the testing before travel, on arrival in Japan, and during Games time, will allow for safe participation of Team USA athletes this summer," it said in a statement. A State Department spokesman said Washington understands "the careful considerations that the Japanese government and the International Olympic Committee are weighing as they prepare for the Tokyo Olympics this summer." "President Biden proudly supports the US athletes who have trained for these Games and will be competing in the best traditions of the Olympic spirit," he said. Japan has seen a relatively small coronavirus outbreak, with around 12,000 deaths overall, but a recent surge in infections has put hospitals under strain. Tokyo, Osaka and eight other regions are under a state of emergency curbing commercial activity until the end of May, with reports saying the measures could be extended. Public opinion is largely opposed to holding the Olympics this summer but organizers say the event can be held safely. The majority of athletes and others staying in the Olympic village will be vaccinated before they enter Japan, but inoculation is not required to participate.

Citing Covid risk, US warns against travel to Olympic host Japan

Liverpool and Chelsea seized the final two Champions League places in a dramatic end to the Premier League season on Sunday, leaving Leicester heartbroken for the second consecutive campaign.

With Manchester City already guaranteed a third title in four years and Manchester United certain to finish second, the focus was on the battle for the remaining two places in the top four.

Heading into the 38th and last round of fixtures, just one point separated Chelsea in third place from Leicester in fifth.

Two Sadio Mane goals gave Liverpool a 2-0 win at home to Crystal Palace, while Thomas Tuchel's Chelsea were indebted to a late Leicester collapse against Tottenham at the King Power Stadium.

Chelsea lost 2-1 at Aston Villa but were saved by the 4-2 defeat for Brendan Rodgers' FA Cup winners.

Liverpool had to celebrate the club's first league triumph for 30 years in an empty stadium last season and their Premier League title defence was blown off course by a series of injuries to key players.

But they avoided the financial hit of missing out on Europe's top club competition by finding their form in the final months of the season, winning eight of their last 10 games to finish third.

"Outstanding, best I could've dreamt of -- we wanted this feeling, this game, this atmosphere," Jurgen Klopp told the BBC after the win in front of 10,000 fans.

"Finishing the season in third is incredible, I can't believe it -- credit to the boys. I can't believe how it worked out in the last few weeks, incredible."

Chelsea were on the brink of missing out on a top-four finish, trailing at Villa Park as goals from Bertrand Traore and Anwar El Ghazi put the home side 2-0 up.

Ben Chilwell pulled a goal back, but in the end Chelsea were saved by the Leicester result to finish fourth, meaning they can now focus on next weekend's Champions League final against Manchester City knowing they are in the competition next season.

Tuchel admitted Chelsea had been "lucky" to qualify.

"We had enough chances," he said. "We did not score, conceded two cheap goals and it was a defeat in the end. We are lucky to escape today."

<h2>- Leicester pain -</h2>

Leicester were left to dwell on another agonising near-miss, just a week after winning the FA Cup for the first time in their history.&nbsp;

The Foxes, forced to settle for a Europa League spot, also missed out on the top four on the final day of last season when they were beaten by Manchester United.

Leicester ended with more days in the Premier League's top four than any other side this season, adding to their sense of frustration.

They appeared to be on the brink of a stunning end to their campaign as two Jamie Vardy penalties saw them lead 2-1 with 16 minutes to go, but a Kasper Schmeichel own goal and two late Gareth Bale strikes completed a turnaround for Spurs.

Harry Kane was also on the scoresheet in potentially his final match for Spurs to win his third Golden Boot award.&nbsp;

The England captain finished one ahead of Liverpool's Mohamed Salah on 23 goals and also picked up the prize for most assists in the season with 14.

"It's hugely disappointing for us," said Rodgers. "We fought so hard all season. I always said you're judged after 38 games and unfortunately we couldn't quite make it."

West Ham secured a Europa League spot by beating Southampton 3-0 while Fulham, West Brom and Sheffield United had already been relegated.

Tottenham finished seventh to take a Europa Conference League spot.

<h2>- Aguero signs off in style -</h2>

Sergio Aguero scored two goals on his final home appearance for Manchester City in their 5-0 romp against Everton after coming on as a second-half substitute.

Pep Guardiola's side, who finished 12 points ahead of Manchester United, celebrated with the Premier League trophy after the match.

The club also paid tribute to Aguero, whose 184 Premier League goals are the most by any player for a single club.

"When I came here the first title for me was the most important, for the club and for me, then Man City started to win more titles so I'm so happy because it's not easy to be 10 years at one club, for me it's an honour," he told Sky Sports.

Liverpool and Chelsea seized the final two Champions League places in a dramatic end to the Premier League season on Sunday, leaving Leicester heartbroken for the second consecutive campaign.

Liverpool and Chelsea seized the final two Champions League places in a dramatic end to the Premier League season on Sunday, leaving Leicester heartbroken for the second consecutive campaign. With Manchester City already guaranteed a third title in four years and Manchester United certain to finish second, the focus was on the battle for the remaining two places in the top four. Heading into the 38th and last round of fixtures, just one point separated Chelsea in third place from Leicester in fifth. Two Sadio Mane goals gave Liverpool a 2-0 win at home to Crystal Palace, while Thomas Tuchel's Chelsea were indebted to a late Leicester collapse against Tottenham at the King Power Stadium. Chelsea lost 2-1 at Aston Villa but were saved by the 4-2 defeat for Brendan Rodgers' FA Cup winners. Liverpool had to celebrate the club's first league triumph for 30 years in an empty stadium last season and their Premier League title defence was blown off course by a series of injuries to key players. But they avoided the financial hit of missing out on Europe's top club competition by finding their form in the final months of the season, winning eight of their last 10 games to finish third. "Outstanding, best I could've dreamt of -- we wanted this feeling, this game, this atmosphere," Jurgen Klopp told the BBC after the win in front of 10,000 fans. "Finishing the season in third is incredible, I can't believe it -- credit to the boys. I can't believe how it worked out in the last few weeks, incredible." Chelsea were on the brink of missing out on a top-four finish, trailing at Villa Park as goals from Bertrand Traore and Anwar El Ghazi put the home side 2-0 up. Ben Chilwell pulled a goal back, but in the end Chelsea were saved by the Leicester result to finish fourth, meaning they can now focus on next weekend's Champions League final against Manchester City knowing they are in the competition next season. Tuchel admitted Chelsea had been "lucky" to qualify. "We had enough chances," he said. "We did not score, conceded two cheap goals and it was a defeat in the end. We are lucky to escape today." - Leicester pain - Leicester were left to dwell on another agonising near-miss, just a week after winning the FA Cup for the first time in their history. The Foxes, forced to settle for a Europa League spot, also missed out on the top four on the final day of last season when they were beaten by Manchester United. Leicester ended with more days in the Premier League's top four than any other side this season, adding to their sense of frustration. They appeared to be on the brink of a stunning end to their campaign as two Jamie Vardy penalties saw them lead 2-1 with 16 minutes to go, but a Kasper Schmeichel own goal and two late Gareth Bale strikes completed a turnaround for Spurs. Harry Kane was also on the scoresheet in potentially his final match for Spurs to win his third Golden Boot award. The England captain finished one ahead of Liverpool's Mohamed Salah on 23 goals and also picked up the prize for most assists in the season with 14. "It's hugely disappointing for us," said Rodgers. "We fought so hard all season. I always said you're judged after 38 games and unfortunately we couldn't quite make it." West Ham secured a Europa League spot by beating Southampton 3-0 while Fulham, West Brom and Sheffield United had already been relegated. Tottenham finished seventh to take a Europa Conference League spot. - Aguero signs off in style - Sergio Aguero scored two goals on his final home appearance for Manchester City in their 5-0 romp against Everton after coming on as a second-half substitute. Pep Guardiola's side, who finished 12 points ahead of Manchester United, celebrated with the Premier League trophy after the match. The club also paid tribute to Aguero, whose 184 Premier League goals are the most by any player for a single club. "When I came here the first title for me was the most important, for the club and for me, then Man City started to win more titles so I'm so happy because it's not easy to be 10 years at one club, for me it's an honour," he told Sky Sports.

Football: Liverpool and Chelsea seal Champions League places in last-day drama

In the final analysis it is tempting to put the outcome of the French title race down to Paris Saint-Germain's shortcomings, but nothing should be taken away from Lille's remarkable achievement in winning Ligue 1 for the first time in a decade.

PSG, despite boasting the two most expensive signings ever in Neymar and Kylian Mbappe, did suffer eight defeats, their most in a single campaign since 2010-11.

Yet somebody still needed to take advantage of the Qatar-owned club's slip-ups and Lille did that emphatically. They also took four points off PSG, including beating them in Paris.

"We have only lost three games. Maybe PSG have not been as good but Lille have been great," said winger Jonathan Bamba.

<h2>- The architects -</h2>

Lille's success is partly down to circumstance, and partly down to two inspirational figures.

The coach, Christophe Galtier, took over a sinking ship from Marcelo Bielsa midway through the 2017-18 season.

Lille just avoided relegation and then finished second to PSG in his first full season. They were fourth when last season was ended early because of the coronavirus pandemic, and now they are champions.

Galtier's success is all the more remarkable given that the club has regularly sold its best players.

In 2018 midfielder Yves Bissouma was sold to Brighton. In 2019 they sold star forward Nicolas Pepe to Arsenal for 80 million euros ($97m), Rafael Leao to AC Milan and midfielder Thiago Mendes to Lyon.

Last year top scorer Victor Osimhen left for Napoli for 70 million euros, while Brazilian centre-back Gabriel joined Arsenal for 30 million.

Yet Galtier has brilliantly incorporated replacements and hugely enhanced a reputation that was already glowing following his record in eight years at Saint-Etienne.

But the one-time Portsmouth assistant manager's success would not have been possible without Luis Campos, the Portuguese super-scout who built the Monaco team that denied PSG the title in 2017.

He was also the genius behind the scenes at Lille, the man who made it possible for them to sell Pepe and Mendes in 2019 and replace them with Osimhen and Renato Sanches.

Last year he replaced Gabriel with young Dutch defender Sven Botman while replacing Osimhen with Canadian striker Jonathan David and signing veteran Turkish striker Burak Yilmaz.&nbsp;

'King Burak' has been an absolute superstar.

Fittingly, both men were on target in Sunday's title-clinching 2-1 win at Angers.

Campos, though, left Monaco a year before their title triumph and his relationship with Lille ended midway through this season too.

After 2017, that Monaco team was gradually broken up. When the title celebrations among Lille supporters die down, they might worry for the future too.

Their current team was only not pillaged even more last summer because of the financial impact on Europe's leading clubs of the pandemic.

This time Lille will lose more players, goalkeeper Mike Maignan and midfielder Boubakary Soumare probably among them, but Campos will not be there to sign replacements.

<h2>- New owners, new direction? -</h2>

Galtier's achievements are even more remarkable given Lille went through considerable off-field turmoil in the winter.

It was not just Campos who left but also the club's owner, Luxembourgish-Spanish businessman Gerard Lopez, who under financial pressure sold Lille in December to a subsidiary of the Merlyn Partners investment fund.

"What has allowed Lille to be in the spotlight today is simple," Galtier told sports daily L'Equipe in November.

"The president found funds to invest in players spotted by a man of incredible competence."

Now they have both gone and Galtier may not be there next season either. He has a year left on his contract but may feel he can take Lille no further. He has been linked with French rivals Lyon and Nice.

Lille now have a new president in ex-PSG sporting director Olivier Letang, but French football is still reeling from the collapse of a record domestic broadcast deal with Mediapro late last year.

In any case Lille's budget is smaller than that of Lyon, Marseille and Monaco as well as PSG.

The Parisians will almost certainly be back next year but Lille, champions for the fourth time in their history, will be able to say the success was fun while it lasted.

In the final analysis it is tempting to put the outcome of the French title race down to Paris Saint-Germain's shortcomings, but nothing should be taken away from Lille's remarkable achievement in winning Ligue 1 for the first time in a decade.

In the final analysis it is tempting to put the outcome of the French title race down to Paris Saint-Germain's shortcomings, but nothing should be taken away from Lille's remarkable achievement in winning Ligue 1 for the first time in a decade. PSG, despite boasting the two most expensive signings ever in Neymar and Kylian Mbappe, did suffer eight defeats, their most in a single campaign since 2010-11. Yet somebody still needed to take advantage of the Qatar-owned club's slip-ups and Lille did that emphatically. They also took four points off PSG, including beating them in Paris. "We have only lost three games. Maybe PSG have not been as good but Lille have been great," said winger Jonathan Bamba. - The architects - Lille's success is partly down to circumstance, and partly down to two inspirational figures. The coach, Christophe Galtier, took over a sinking ship from Marcelo Bielsa midway through the 2017-18 season. Lille just avoided relegation and then finished second to PSG in his first full season. They were fourth when last season was ended early because of the coronavirus pandemic, and now they are champions. Galtier's success is all the more remarkable given that the club has regularly sold its best players. In 2018 midfielder Yves Bissouma was sold to Brighton. In 2019 they sold star forward Nicolas Pepe to Arsenal for 80 million euros ($97m), Rafael Leao to AC Milan and midfielder Thiago Mendes to Lyon. Last year top scorer Victor Osimhen left for Napoli for 70 million euros, while Brazilian centre-back Gabriel joined Arsenal for 30 million. Yet Galtier has brilliantly incorporated replacements and hugely enhanced a reputation that was already glowing following his record in eight years at Saint-Etienne. But the one-time Portsmouth assistant manager's success would not have been possible without Luis Campos, the Portuguese super-scout who built the Monaco team that denied PSG the title in 2017. He was also the genius behind the scenes at Lille, the man who made it possible for them to sell Pepe and Mendes in 2019 and replace them with Osimhen and Renato Sanches. Last year he replaced Gabriel with young Dutch defender Sven Botman while replacing Osimhen with Canadian striker Jonathan David and signing veteran Turkish striker Burak Yilmaz. 'King Burak' has been an absolute superstar. Fittingly, both men were on target in Sunday's title-clinching 2-1 win at Angers. Campos, though, left Monaco a year before their title triumph and his relationship with Lille ended midway through this season too. After 2017, that Monaco team was gradually broken up. When the title celebrations among Lille supporters die down, they might worry for the future too. Their current team was only not pillaged even more last summer because of the financial impact on Europe's leading clubs of the pandemic. This time Lille will lose more players, goalkeeper Mike Maignan and midfielder Boubakary Soumare probably among them, but Campos will not be there to sign replacements. - New owners, new direction? - Galtier's achievements are even more remarkable given Lille went through considerable off-field turmoil in the winter. It was not just Campos who left but also the club's owner, Luxembourgish-Spanish businessman Gerard Lopez, who under financial pressure sold Lille in December to a subsidiary of the Merlyn Partners investment fund. "What has allowed Lille to be in the spotlight today is simple," Galtier told sports daily L'Equipe in November. "The president found funds to invest in players spotted by a man of incredible competence." Now they have both gone and Galtier may not be there next season either. He has a year left on his contract but may feel he can take Lille no further. He has been linked with French rivals Lyon and Nice. Lille now have a new president in ex-PSG sporting director Olivier Letang, but French football is still reeling from the collapse of a record domestic broadcast deal with Mediapro late last year. In any case Lille's budget is smaller than that of Lyon, Marseille and Monaco as well as PSG. The Parisians will almost certainly be back next year but Lille, champions for the fourth time in their history, will be able to say the success was fun while it lasted.

Football: Lille enjoy French title win but maintaining success may be impossible

Juventus qualified for the Champions League on the final day of the season on Sunday with a 4-1 win at Bologna and were joined by AC Milan who beat Atalanta 2-0.

Napoli had to settle for a Europa League spot, finishing fifth, one point behind Juventus, after a 1-1 draw at home against Hellas Verona.

A pair of Franck Kessie penalities at the end of either half ensured AC Milan finished the season second -- 12 points behind city rivals Inter Milan -- and return to the Champions League for the first time since the 2013-2014 season.

"We deserved the Champions League as well as second place," said Milan coach Stefano Pioli whose side had missed the chance to seal their berth last weekend against Cagliari.

"We went through the whole championship at the top, unfortunately we had thrown away the match point last Sunday.

"I'm really excited, happy, I have to thank the club because they made us work in a spectacular way."

Atalanta had already ensured a third consecutive season of Champions League football but missed out on a first second-place Serie A finish days after losing out in the Coppa Italia final to Juventus.

Cristiano Ronaldo was left on the bench by Juventus coach Andrea Pirlo who opted for an attacking line-up of Paulo Dybala and Alvaro Morata flanked by Federico Chiesa and Dejan Kulusevski.

"It was a shared choice, Ronaldo was tired after the fatigue on Wednesday," said Pirlo.&nbsp;

"He made himself available to the team but I chose to have another player named Morata play, who is not the latest arrival. I have a quality team, with many choices available."

A Morata brace along with goals from Chiesa and Adrien Rabiot prevented Juventus missing out on the elite European competition for the first time since 2012.

In Naples, Amir Rrahmani scored for Napoli after an hour against his former club, which would have been enough to secure a berth at the top table but Davide Faraoni pulled one back for the visitors nine minutes.

Gennaro Gattuso's side were denied a return to elite European action after also missing out last season.

In a tense game in Bergamo, Milan held on despite playing without injured star striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

Kessie proved solid in front of goal taking the first penalty three minutes before the break and the second deep into injury time.

Lazio join Napoli in the Europa League despite a 2-0 loss at Sassuolo with Roma finishing seventh after coming from two goals down to hold Spezia 2-2.

In Bologna, Italy forward Chiesa, who scored the Coppa Italia winner midweek, finishing off a Kulusevski cross into the box from close range after six minutes for his 15th goal in all competitions this season.

Dybala set up Morata to nod in the second before the half-hour mark with Rabiot adding a third before the break at the Stadio Dall'Ara.

Morata got the second just after the interval latching onto a ball Juve goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny blasted up the pitch.

The Spaniard controlled the ball and raced forward to finish off.

Riccardo Orsolini pulled a goal back for Bologna past Juve's third-choice goalkeeper Carlo Pinsoglio who got his first outing this season coming on for Szczesny for the final quarter of an hour.

Earlier Inter Milan were presented with their first trophy in 11 years after a 5-1 win over Udinese in their final game in the San Siro.

Antonio Conte's side had sealed their 19th 'Scudetto' with four games to spare and were able to play their final game of the season with 1,000 celebrating supporters.

Outside more than 4,000 had gathered from early in the morning with fireworks and flares, greeting the team bus with chants and cheers.

Ashley Young struck after eight minutes with Christian Eriksen, Lautaro Martinez, Ivan Perisic and Romelu Lukaku also all on target.

Juventus qualified for the Champions League on the final day of the season on Sunday with a 4-1 win at Bologna and were joined by AC Milan who beat Atalanta 2-0.

Juventus qualified for the Champions League on the final day of the season on Sunday with a 4-1 win at Bologna and were joined by AC Milan who beat Atalanta 2-0. Napoli had to settle for a Europa League spot, finishing fifth, one point behind Juventus, after a 1-1 draw at home against Hellas Verona. A pair of Franck Kessie penalities at the end of either half ensured AC Milan finished the season second -- 12 points behind city rivals Inter Milan -- and return to the Champions League for the first time since the 2013-2014 season. "We deserved the Champions League as well as second place," said Milan coach Stefano Pioli whose side had missed the chance to seal their berth last weekend against Cagliari. "We went through the whole championship at the top, unfortunately we had thrown away the match point last Sunday. "I'm really excited, happy, I have to thank the club because they made us work in a spectacular way." Atalanta had already ensured a third consecutive season of Champions League football but missed out on a first second-place Serie A finish days after losing out in the Coppa Italia final to Juventus. Cristiano Ronaldo was left on the bench by Juventus coach Andrea Pirlo who opted for an attacking line-up of Paulo Dybala and Alvaro Morata flanked by Federico Chiesa and Dejan Kulusevski. "It was a shared choice, Ronaldo was tired after the fatigue on Wednesday," said Pirlo. "He made himself available to the team but I chose to have another player named Morata play, who is not the latest arrival. I have a quality team, with many choices available." A Morata brace along with goals from Chiesa and Adrien Rabiot prevented Juventus missing out on the elite European competition for the first time since 2012. In Naples, Amir Rrahmani scored for Napoli after an hour against his former club, which would have been enough to secure a berth at the top table but Davide Faraoni pulled one back for the visitors nine minutes. Gennaro Gattuso's side were denied a return to elite European action after also missing out last season. In a tense game in Bergamo, Milan held on despite playing without injured star striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic. Kessie proved solid in front of goal taking the first penalty three minutes before the break and the second deep into injury time. Lazio join Napoli in the Europa League despite a 2-0 loss at Sassuolo with Roma finishing seventh after coming from two goals down to hold Spezia 2-2. In Bologna, Italy forward Chiesa, who scored the Coppa Italia winner midweek, finishing off a Kulusevski cross into the box from close range after six minutes for his 15th goal in all competitions this season. Dybala set up Morata to nod in the second before the half-hour mark with Rabiot adding a third before the break at the Stadio Dall'Ara. Morata got the second just after the interval latching onto a ball Juve goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny blasted up the pitch. The Spaniard controlled the ball and raced forward to finish off. Riccardo Orsolini pulled a goal back for Bologna past Juve's third-choice goalkeeper Carlo Pinsoglio who got his first outing this season coming on for Szczesny for the final quarter of an hour. Earlier Inter Milan were presented with their first trophy in 11 years after a 5-1 win over Udinese in their final game in the San Siro. Antonio Conte's side had sealed their 19th 'Scudetto' with four games to spare and were able to play their final game of the season with 1,000 celebrating supporters. Outside more than 4,000 had gathered from early in the morning with fireworks and flares, greeting the team bus with chants and cheers. Ashley Young struck after eight minutes with Christian Eriksen, Lautaro Martinez, Ivan Perisic and Romelu Lukaku also all on target.

Football: Juventus and AC Milan qualify for Champions League, Napoli miss out

Phil Mickelson became the oldest major winner in golf history Sunday, the 50-year-old left-hander capturing the PGA Championship by two strokes at Kiawah Island for his sixth major title.

The age-defying American took the $2.1 million (1.7 million euro) top prize with a stunning shotmaking display on the windy Ocean Course.

Mickelson delivered a win for the ages by firing a final-round one-over par 73 to finish 72 holes on 6-under par 282 with four-time major winner Brooks Koepka and South African Louis Oosthuizen second on 284.

A surreal scene at the 18th hole saw spectators surround the green and chanting "Lefty" as he two-putted for par to complete a record-breaking victory for the ages.

Phil Mickelson became the oldest major winner in golf history Sunday, the 50-year-old left-hander capturing the PGA Championship by two strokes at Kiawah Island for his sixth major title.

Phil Mickelson became the oldest major winner in golf history Sunday, the 50-year-old left-hander capturing the PGA Championship by two strokes at Kiawah Island for his sixth major title. The age-defying American took the $2.1 million (1.7 million euro) top prize with a stunning shotmaking display on the windy Ocean Course. Mickelson delivered a win for the ages by firing a final-round one-over par 73 to finish 72 holes on 6-under par 282 with four-time major winner Brooks Koepka and South African Louis Oosthuizen second on 284. A surreal scene at the 18th hole saw spectators surround the green and chanting "Lefty" as he two-putted for par to complete a record-breaking victory for the ages.

Golf: Mickelson becomes oldest major winner at 50 with epic PGA win

Sergio Aguero said goodbye to the Etihad Stadium for one final time on Sunday as he featured in his very last home game for Manchester City. A decade after joining from Atletico Madrid, Aguero’s contribution to Manchester City was celebrated in fitting style as fans returned to the stadium for the first time in 15 months. <o:p></o:p>

Coming off the bench to a rousing reception, Aguero scored twice to break the Premier League record for most goals scored by any player for one club. <o:p></o:p>

With Everton players and staff providing the guard of honour to Aguero and his fellow title-winning teammates before kick-off, the legendary striker received a standing ovation from 10,000 adoring City supporters as he entered the fray for the final time, before the focus shifted to a first-ever Champions League final next weekend. <o:p></o:p>

Earlier this week, the club unveiled a Sergio-inspired mosaic that will mark his outstanding contribution to Manchester City during his 10-year spell, beside a training pitch dedicated to the Argentinean.

<o:p></o:p>

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Walking-off with King Kun one last time 💙 
 
🔷 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ManCity?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ManCity</a> | <a href="https://t.co/axa0klD5re">https://t.co/axa0klD5re</a> <a href="https://t.co/oHr73viWYM">pic.twitter.com/oHr73viWYM</a>
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The club had previously revealed that a statue of the City striker has been commissioned to stand alongside those of fellow legends Vincent Kompany and David Silva.

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>

Aguero sealed his place in the history books at the end of his very first season, when his unforgettable last-gasp winner against Queens Park Rangers clinched the most dramatic title win in Premier League history. His contribution, however, would extend far beyond that extraordinary moment. <o:p></o:p>

15 pieces of domestic silverware would follow during a decade in which Aguero also became the Club’s all-time leading goal-scorer. <o:p></o:p>

A Champions League final awaits next weekend, as the 32-year-old looks to crown his stay with European glory.

<o:p><img alt="Aguero" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fb5ba869-5074-4cf4-bcce-9c8f33439eb2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_9AM2WM.jpg" /></o:p>

A 2014 World Cup finalist, Aguero leaves City with five Premier League medals to his name and as the highest-scoring foreign player ever to feature in the league. His remarkable consistency is reflected by having been named Premier League Player of the Month more than any other player since the inception of the competition [7].

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-manchester-city-win-hat-trick-of-premier-league-titles-386911" hreflang="en">Football: Manchester City win hat-trick of Premier League titles</a><o:p></o:p>

His haul of honours also includes an FA Cup, secured as part of the historic domestic treble winning season of 2018- 19 and six League Cup titles that make him the joint most decorated player in that competition’s history. <o:p></o:p>

Manchester City chairman, Khaldoon Al Mubarak said: “Sergio will leave nothing short of an indelible mark on Manchester City Football Club. “His rare blend of exceptional talent and understated humility have not only secured him a place in the history books of English football, but in the hearts of every Manchester City supporter across the world.

“His statue will immortalise that legacy forever and pay tribute to a decade in which very few players across world football had as integral an impact as he had here.”<o:p></o:p>

Sergio Aguero said goodbye to the Etihad Stadium for one final time on Sunday as he featured in his very last home game for Manchester City. A decade after joining from Atletico Madrid, Aguero’s contribution to Manchester City was celebrated in fitting style as fans returned to the stadium for the first time in 15 months.

Sergio Aguero said goodbye to the Etihad Stadium for one final time on Sunday as he featured in his very last home game for Manchester City. A decade after joining from Atletico Madrid, Aguero’s contribution to Manchester City was celebrated in fitting style as fans returned to the stadium for the first time in 15 months. Coming off the bench to a rousing reception, Aguero scored twice to break the Premier League record for most goals scored by any player for one club. With Everton players and staff providing the guard of honour to Aguero and his fellow title-winning teammates before kick-off, the legendary striker received a standing ovation from 10,000 adoring City supporters as he entered the fray for the final time, before the focus shifted to a first-ever Champions League final next weekend. Earlier this week, the club unveiled a Sergio-inspired mosaic that will mark his outstanding contribution to Manchester City during his 10-year spell, beside a training pitch dedicated to the Argentinean. Walking-off with King Kun one last time 💙 🔷 #ManCity | https://t.co/axa0klD5re pic.twitter.com/oHr73viWYM — Manchester City (@ManCity) May 23, 2021 × The club had previously revealed that a statue of the City striker has been commissioned to stand alongside those of fellow legends Vincent Kompany and David Silva. ALSO READ: Football: From Messi to Lewandowski: Single season top-scorers in Europe's five main leagues Aguero sealed his place in the history books at the end of his very first season, when his unforgettable last-gasp winner against Queens Park Rangers clinched the most dramatic title win in Premier League history. His contribution, however, would extend far beyond that extraordinary moment. 15 pieces of domestic silverware would follow during a decade in which Aguero also became the Club’s all-time leading goal-scorer. A Champions League final awaits next weekend, as the 32-year-old looks to crown his stay with European glory. A 2014 World Cup finalist, Aguero leaves City with five Premier League medals to his name and as the highest-scoring foreign player ever to feature in the league. His remarkable consistency is reflected by having been named Premier League Player of the Month more than any other player since the inception of the competition [7]. ALSO READ: Football: Manchester City win hat-trick of Premier League titles His haul of honours also includes an FA Cup, secured as part of the historic domestic treble winning season of 2018- 19 and six League Cup titles that make him the joint most decorated player in that competition’s history. Manchester City chairman, Khaldoon Al Mubarak said: “Sergio will leave nothing short of an indelible mark on Manchester City Football Club. “His rare blend of exceptional talent and understated humility have not only secured him a place in the history books of English football, but in the hearts of every Manchester City supporter across the world. “His statue will immortalise that legacy forever and pay tribute to a decade in which very few players across world football had as integral an impact as he had here.”

Football: Record-breaking Sergio Aguero bids farewell to Etihad Stadium in style

Legendary Indian athlete Milkha Singh has been admitted to a hospital in Mohali on Monday after his oxygen level dipped after testing positive for COVID-19. His son and golf icon Jeev Milkha Singh has confirmed the development while adding that his father’s condition is stable.<o:p></o:p>

The 91-year-old Commonwealth Games gold-medallist had tested positive for COVID-19 on May 20. He was shifted to Fortis Hospital on Monday as a precautionary measure.<o:p></o:p>

Milkha Singh was also suffering from dehydration, possibly due to diarrhea and vomiting.<o:p></o:p>

"He has been hospitalised. He was weak and not eating since yesterday, so we had to hospitalise him. Though his parameters seemed alright, we thought it is safer to have him admitted where he would be under supervision of senior doctors," Jeev Milkha Singh told PTI.<o:p></o:p>

"He is under good care of doctors there. He is a strong man, always positive and will recover soon," added the ace golfer, who reached India on Saturday from Dubai after his father tested positive last week.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ahead-of-olympics-japans-osaka-buckles-under-coronavirus-fourth-wave-387130" hreflang="en">Ahead of Olympics, Japan's Osaka buckles under coronavirus fourth wave</a><o:p></o:p>

In 2020, Milkha Singh and his 49-year-old son Jeev had donated INR 200,000 to help India combat the dreaded coronavirus pandemic.<o:p></o:p>

Hailed as ‘The Flying Sikh’, Milkha Singh has carved many memorable moments in his career despite failing to win an Olympic medal. His iconic 400-metre race at the 1960 Olympics in Rome, where he became the first Indian male athlete to reach the summit clash of an Olympic event, is still cherished by many and all.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics-softbank-ceo-slams-games-as-japan-races-to-catch-up-on-vaccinations-387042" hreflang="en">Olympics: SoftBank CEO slams Games as Japan races to catch up on vaccinations</a><o:p></o:p>

Milkha started as one of the favourites and led that race but eventually missed out on a podium finish after trailing by 0.1 seconds. Despite finishing fourth, he set a new national record that was untouched for almost 40 years. He was also the first athlete to win a Commonwealth Games gold medal for India in the 1958 British Empire and Commonwealth Games.<o:p></o:p>

Legendary Indian athlete Milkha Singh has been admitted to a hospital in Mohali on Monday after his oxygen level dipped after testing positive for COVID-19. His son and golf icon Jeev Milkha Singh has confirmed the development while adding that his father’s condition is stable.

Legendary Indian athlete Milkha Singh has been admitted to a hospital in Mohali on Monday after his oxygen level dipped after testing positive for COVID-19. His son and golf icon Jeev Milkha Singh has confirmed the development while adding that his father’s condition is stable. The 91-year-old Commonwealth Games gold-medallist had tested positive for COVID-19 on May 20. He was shifted to Fortis Hospital on Monday as a precautionary measure. Milkha Singh was also suffering from dehydration, possibly due to diarrhea and vomiting. "He has been hospitalised. He was weak and not eating since yesterday, so we had to hospitalise him. Though his parameters seemed alright, we thought it is safer to have him admitted where he would be under supervision of senior doctors," Jeev Milkha Singh told PTI. "He is under good care of doctors there. He is a strong man, always positive and will recover soon," added the ace golfer, who reached India on Saturday from Dubai after his father tested positive last week. ALSO READ: Ahead of Olympics, Japan's Osaka buckles under coronavirus fourth wave In 2020, Milkha Singh and his 49-year-old son Jeev had donated INR 200,000 to help India combat the dreaded coronavirus pandemic. Hailed as ‘The Flying Sikh’, Milkha Singh has carved many memorable moments in his career despite failing to win an Olympic medal. His iconic 400-metre race at the 1960 Olympics in Rome, where he became the first Indian male athlete to reach the summit clash of an Olympic event, is still cherished by many and all. ALSO READ: Olympics: SoftBank CEO slams Games as Japan races to catch up on vaccinations Milkha started as one of the favourites and led that race but eventually missed out on a podium finish after trailing by 0.1 seconds. Despite finishing fourth, he set a new national record that was untouched for almost 40 years. He was also the first athlete to win a Commonwealth Games gold medal for India in the 1958 British Empire and Commonwealth Games.

COVID-19 positive Milkha Singh hospitalised after drop in oxygen level

Sergio Ramos has opened up about his omission from Spain’s Euro 2020 squad as head coach Luis Enrique left the iconic defender out of the contingent. Ramos will be missing his first major international tournament since Euro 2004 with not a single Real Madrid player making it into the La Roja squad.<o:p></o:p>

Ramos was the most notable absentee in Spain’s Euro 2020 squad as Enrique named his final 24-member squad for the tournament, starting May 24. In Ramos’ absence, Sergio Busquets will take over the captaincy duty for Spain.<o:p></o:p>

Ramos witnessed an injury-plagued 2020-21 season at Real Madrid with the Los Blancos failing to win a single trophy in the year. Ramos played just 21 matches across all competitions and has started just two since undergoing surgery in January.<o:p></o:p>

While Ramos expressed his disappointment in missing out from the Spain squad but added that he is now focusing on regaining his full fitness and be ready for the next season.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-sergio-ramos-left-out-as-spain-announce-squad-for-euro-2020-387075" hreflang="en">Football: Sergio Ramos left out as Spain announce squad for Euro 2020</a>

<o:p></o:p>

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Después de unos meses jodidos y una temporada atípica y distinta a lo que he vivido en toda mi carrera, también se une la Eurocopa. 
 
After a tough few months and a strange season unlike anything I have experienced in my career comes the Euros. <a href="https://t.co/U8fWjR5et5">pic.twitter.com/U8fWjR5et5</a>
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Ramos took to social media platforms as the veteran defender wrote: "After a few months and a strange season unlike anything I have experienced in my career comes the Euros. "I have fought and worked body and soul every day to be able to reach 100 per cent with Real Madrid and the national team, but things do not always go the way you want.<o:p></o:p>

"It hurts me not to have been able to help my team more and not defend Spain but, in this case, it is better to rest, fully recover well and, next year, return as we have always done.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-sergio-aguero-close-to-barcelona-move-reveals-pep-guardiola-387069" hreflang="en">Football: Sergio Aguero close to Barcelona move, reveals Pep Guardiola</a><o:p></o:p>

"It hurts not to represent your country, but you have to be honest and sincere. A big shout to everyone and #VivaEspana and #HalaMadrid always!"<o:p></o:p>

Earlier, Luis Enrique said that Ramos has been left out due to persistent injury concerns with his club Real Madrid. <o:p></o:p>

"Ramos has not been able to compete this season, he has not been able to train with the group," said the Spain boss. "I called him last night, it was difficult and hard.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>"I clearly see that it’s a complicated decision. I recommended that he be selfish and that he regains his level to play in his club and in the national team."<o:p></o:p>

Sergio Ramos has opened up about his omission from Spain’s Euro 2020 squad as head coach Luis Enrique left the iconic defender out of the contingent. Ramos will be missing his first major international tournament since Euro 2004 with not a single Real Madrid player making it into the La Roja squad.

Sergio Ramos has opened up about his omission from Spain’s Euro 2020 squad as head coach Luis Enrique left the iconic defender out of the contingent. Ramos will be missing his first major international tournament since Euro 2004 with not a single Real Madrid player making it into the La Roja squad. Ramos was the most notable absentee in Spain’s Euro 2020 squad as Enrique named his final 24-member squad for the tournament, starting May 24. In Ramos’ absence, Sergio Busquets will take over the captaincy duty for Spain. Ramos witnessed an injury-plagued 2020-21 season at Real Madrid with the Los Blancos failing to win a single trophy in the year. Ramos played just 21 matches across all competitions and has started just two since undergoing surgery in January. While Ramos expressed his disappointment in missing out from the Spain squad but added that he is now focusing on regaining his full fitness and be ready for the next season. ALSO READ: Football: Sergio Ramos left out as Spain announce squad for Euro 2020 Después de unos meses jodidos y una temporada atípica y distinta a lo que he vivido en toda mi carrera, también se une la Eurocopa. After a tough few months and a strange season unlike anything I have experienced in my career comes the Euros. pic.twitter.com/U8fWjR5et5 — Sergio Ramos (@SergioRamos) May 24, 2021 × Ramos took to social media platforms as the veteran defender wrote: "After a few months and a strange season unlike anything I have experienced in my career comes the Euros. "I have fought and worked body and soul every day to be able to reach 100 per cent with Real Madrid and the national team, but things do not always go the way you want. "It hurts me not to have been able to help my team more and not defend Spain but, in this case, it is better to rest, fully recover well and, next year, return as we have always done. ALSO READ: Football: Sergio Aguero close to Barcelona move, reveals Pep Guardiola "It hurts not to represent your country, but you have to be honest and sincere. A big shout to everyone and #VivaEspana and #HalaMadrid always!" Earlier, Luis Enrique said that Ramos has been left out due to persistent injury concerns with his club Real Madrid. "Ramos has not been able to compete this season, he has not been able to train with the group," said the Spain boss. "I called him last night, it was difficult and hard. "I clearly see that it’s a complicated decision. I recommended that he be selfish and that he regains his level to play in his club and in the national team."

Football: 'It hurts me' - Sergio Ramos opens up about omission from Spain's Euro 2020 squad

Head coach of Spain national football team, Luis Enrique on Monday confirmed the 24-member squad for the upcoming Euro 2020 as he left Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos out of the team.

Ramos, who has won many accolades with Spain including World Cup and Euro, will miss out on the tournament after playing 180 matches for La Roja.

The iconic defender has played every major international tournament for Spain starting from Euro 2004 but the streak comes to an end after his omission from the Spain squad for Euro 2020.

Spain will play in Group E and will play Slovakia, Sweden and Poland at Seville's La Cartuja Olympic stadium with a limited number of spectators allowed to attend the games.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-sergio-aguero-close-to-barcelona-move-reveals-pep-guardiola-387069" hreflang="en">Football: Sergio Aguero close to Barcelona move, reveals Pep Guardiola</a>

Meanwhile, Aymeric Laporte gets his first call-up for Spain since switching allegiance from France. Recently, Laporte got his Spain nationality as he completes his switch from France.

Barcelona midfielder Sergio Busquets was named in the squad and is likely to lead the team in the absence of Ramos. Surprisingly, Iago Aspas misses out despite having a brilliant season in LaLiga.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-andrea-pirlo-explains-cristiano-ronaldo-omission-against-bologna-387029" hreflang="en">Football: Andrea Pirlo explains Cristiano Ronaldo omission against Bologna</a>

<h2>Spain Euro 2020 squad:</h2>

Goalkeepers: Unai Simón, De Gea, Robert Sánchez

Defenders: Gayà, Jordi Alba, Pau Torres, Laporte, Eric García, Diego Llorente, Azpilicueta, Marcos Llorente.

Midfielders: Busquets, Rodri, Pedri, Thiago, Koke, Fabián.

Forwards: Dani Olmo, Oyarzabal, Morata, Gerard Moreno, Ferran Torres, Adama Traore, Pablo Sarabia.

&nbsp;

Head coach of Spain national football team, Luis Enrique on Monday confirmed the 24-member squad for the upcoming Euro 2020 as he left Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos out of the team.

Head coach of Spain national football team, Luis Enrique on Monday confirmed the 24-member squad for the upcoming Euro 2020 as he left Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos out of the team. Ramos, who has won many accolades with Spain including World Cup and Euro, will miss out on the tournament after playing 180 matches for La Roja. The iconic defender has played every major international tournament for Spain starting from Euro 2004 but the streak comes to an end after his omission from the Spain squad for Euro 2020. Spain will play in Group E and will play Slovakia, Sweden and Poland at Seville's La Cartuja Olympic stadium with a limited number of spectators allowed to attend the games. ALSO READ: Football: Sergio Aguero close to Barcelona move, reveals Pep Guardiola Meanwhile, Aymeric Laporte gets his first call-up for Spain since switching allegiance from France. Recently, Laporte got his Spain nationality as he completes his switch from France. Barcelona midfielder Sergio Busquets was named in the squad and is likely to lead the team in the absence of Ramos. Surprisingly, Iago Aspas misses out despite having a brilliant season in LaLiga. ALSO READ: Football: Andrea Pirlo explains Cristiano Ronaldo omission against Bologna Spain Euro 2020 squad: Goalkeepers: Unai Simón, De Gea, Robert Sánchez Defenders: Gayà, Jordi Alba, Pau Torres, Laporte, Eric García, Diego Llorente, Azpilicueta, Marcos Llorente. Midfielders: Busquets, Rodri, Pedri, Thiago, Koke, Fabián. Forwards: Dani Olmo, Oyarzabal, Morata, Gerard Moreno, Ferran Torres, Adama Traore, Pablo Sarabia.

Football: Sergio Ramos left out as Spain announce squad for Euro 2020

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola revealed record-breaking forward Sergio Aguero’s next club as the Spaniard gave a fitting tribute to the Argentine striker following the club’s 5-0 win over Everton at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday.<o:p></o:p>

Aguero is set to head back to La Liga where he shot to fame as a youngster. Aguero is now close to signing for Barcelona, revealed Guardiola on Sunday after Man City lifted yet another Premier League trophy under the former Barca boss.<o:p></o:p>

The Man City manager while endorsing the move said Aguero would provide Barcelona a huge boost in the attacking front and added that he was happy that the Argentine could play "alongside the best player of all time, Messi".<o:p></o:p>

Aguero bid an emotional farewell to Man City on Sunday netting a brace after coming on in the 61st minute of the match.<o:p></o:p>

"Maybe I reveal a secret," Guardiola told BBC. "Maybe he is close to agreeing a deal for the club of my heart - for Barcelona.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-who-will-challenge-for-man-citys-premier-league-crown-next-season-387037" hreflang="en">Football: Who will challenge for Man City's Premier League crown next season?</a>

<o:p></o:p>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
🗣 "He's a special person for us." 💙 
 
Pep Guardiola gets emotional talking about Sergio Aguero leaving Manchester City <a href="https://t.co/LoKM9wMJAR">pic.twitter.com/LoKM9wMJAR</a>
— Football Daily (@footballdaily) <a href="https://twitter.com/footballdaily/status/1396527643923783680?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"He is going to be playing alongside the best player of all time, Messi.<o:p></o:p>

"I'm pretty sure he is going to enjoy. And maybe Barcelona are stronger and stronger with him on the pitch."<o:p></o:p>

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-manchester-city-win-hat-trick-of-premier-league-titles-386911" hreflang="en">Football: Manchester City win hat-trick of Premier League titles</a>

Aguero and Pep agreed that the striker would come in the second of the match in what was his final appearance for Man City at the Etihad Stadium. Aguero has scripted many incredible moments for the Blues in his trophy-laden decade-long stay at the club. <o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, while Aguero gears up to move to Barcelona after his first Champions League final appearance, Man City have been linked with Tottenham Hotspur striker and England captain Harry Kane to bolster their attack for the upcoming season.<o:p></o:p>

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola revealed record-breaking forward Sergio Aguero’s next club as the Spaniard gave a fitting tribute to the Argentine striker following the club’s 5-0 win over Everton at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola revealed record-breaking forward Sergio Aguero’s next club as the Spaniard gave a fitting tribute to the Argentine striker following the club’s 5-0 win over Everton at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday. Aguero is set to head back to La Liga where he shot to fame as a youngster. Aguero is now close to signing for Barcelona, revealed Guardiola on Sunday after Man City lifted yet another Premier League trophy under the former Barca boss. The Man City manager while endorsing the move said Aguero would provide Barcelona a huge boost in the attacking front and added that he was happy that the Argentine could play "alongside the best player of all time, Messi". Aguero bid an emotional farewell to Man City on Sunday netting a brace after coming on in the 61st minute of the match. "Maybe I reveal a secret," Guardiola told BBC. "Maybe he is close to agreeing a deal for the club of my heart - for Barcelona. ALSO READ: Football: Who will challenge for Man City's Premier League crown next season? 🗣 "He's a special person for us." 💙 Pep Guardiola gets emotional talking about Sergio Aguero leaving Manchester City pic.twitter.com/LoKM9wMJAR — Football Daily (@footballdaily) May 23, 2021 × "He is going to be playing alongside the best player of all time, Messi. "I'm pretty sure he is going to enjoy. And maybe Barcelona are stronger and stronger with him on the pitch." ALSO READ: Football: Manchester City win hat-trick of Premier League titles Aguero and Pep agreed that the striker would come in the second of the match in what was his final appearance for Man City at the Etihad Stadium. Aguero has scripted many incredible moments for the Blues in his trophy-laden decade-long stay at the club. Meanwhile, while Aguero gears up to move to Barcelona after his first Champions League final appearance, Man City have been linked with Tottenham Hotspur striker and England captain Harry Kane to bolster their attack for the upcoming season.

Football: Sergio Aguero close to Barcelona move, reveals Pep Guardiola

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Monday announced that it will contribute 10-Litre 2000 Oxygen concentrators to boost India’s efforts in overcoming the COVID-19 pandemic. India has been hit by an unprecedented second wave of the coronavirus with demands for medical equipment and life-saving oxygen witnessing a major spike.&nbsp;

Over the next few months, the Board will distribute the concentrators across India with the hope that critical medical aid and care will be provided to the needy patients and this initiative will reduce the havoc unleashed by the pandemic. &nbsp;

Sourav Ganguly, president, BCCI: “The BCCI acknowledges the stellar role the medical and healthcare community has played and continues to play as we fight this long battle against the virus. They have truly been frontline warriors and have done whatever possible to shield us. The Board has always put health and safety at the top of the chart and remains committed to the cause. The oxygen concentrators will provide immediate relief to those affected and will help in their speedy recovery.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-honestly-disappointed-jaydev-unadkat-opens-up-about-selection-snub-for-england-tour-386996" hreflang="en">Cricket: 'Honestly disappointed': Jaydev Unadkat opens up about selection snub for England tour</a>

Jay Shah, Secretary, BCCI: “We stand shoulder to shoulder in this collective fight against the virus. The BCCI understands the desperate need for medical equipment in this hour of crisis and hopes this effort will help in narrowing the demand-supply gap that has generated across the country. We have all gone through a lot but I am confident that we can stay ahead of the curve now that the vaccination drive is underway. I urge everyone eligible to get vaccinated.”&nbsp;

Arun Singh Dhumal, Treasurer, BCCI: “In times of crisis, the cricketing community has always come forward to lend support. It is heartening to see everyone coming together and doing their bit. The BCCI remains steadfast in its efforts towards social responsibility and will always be working closely with central and state governments to help them in their efforts to curb the spread of the virus. We believe these oxygen concentrators will boost healthcare infrastructure and be vital in providing critical oxygen when levels deplete rapidly.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-assessing-conditions-will-be-key-to-batting-in-england-shubman-gill-387002" hreflang="en">Cricket: 'Assessing conditions will be key to batting in England': Shubman Gill</a>

About oxygen concentrators

An oxygen concentrator is a medical device that operates by drawing air from the environment to deliver continuous, clean and concentrated oxygen to needy patients. Concentrators provide a sustainable and cost-effective source of medical oxygen and are designed for continuous operation. While oxygen cylinders require refilling and need to be transported in cryogenic tankers, concentrators are easily portable and only need a power source to draw in ambient air.&nbsp;

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Monday announced that it will contribute 10-Litre 2000 Oxygen concentrators to boost India’s efforts in overcoming the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Monday announced that it will contribute 10-Litre 2000 Oxygen concentrators to boost India’s efforts in overcoming the COVID-19 pandemic. India has been hit by an unprecedented second wave of the coronavirus with demands for medical equipment and life-saving oxygen witnessing a major spike. Over the next few months, the Board will distribute the concentrators across India with the hope that critical medical aid and care will be provided to the needy patients and this initiative will reduce the havoc unleashed by the pandemic. Sourav Ganguly, president, BCCI: “The BCCI acknowledges the stellar role the medical and healthcare community has played and continues to play as we fight this long battle against the virus. They have truly been frontline warriors and have done whatever possible to shield us. The Board has always put health and safety at the top of the chart and remains committed to the cause. The oxygen concentrators will provide immediate relief to those affected and will help in their speedy recovery.” ALSO READ: Cricket: 'Honestly disappointed': Jaydev Unadkat opens up about selection snub for England tour Jay Shah, Secretary, BCCI: “We stand shoulder to shoulder in this collective fight against the virus. The BCCI understands the desperate need for medical equipment in this hour of crisis and hopes this effort will help in narrowing the demand-supply gap that has generated across the country. We have all gone through a lot but I am confident that we can stay ahead of the curve now that the vaccination drive is underway. I urge everyone eligible to get vaccinated.” Arun Singh Dhumal, Treasurer, BCCI: “In times of crisis, the cricketing community has always come forward to lend support. It is heartening to see everyone coming together and doing their bit. The BCCI remains steadfast in its efforts towards social responsibility and will always be working closely with central and state governments to help them in their efforts to curb the spread of the virus. We believe these oxygen concentrators will boost healthcare infrastructure and be vital in providing critical oxygen when levels deplete rapidly.” ALSO READ: Cricket: 'Assessing conditions will be key to batting in England': Shubman Gill About oxygen concentrators An oxygen concentrator is a medical device that operates by drawing air from the environment to deliver continuous, clean and concentrated oxygen to needy patients. Concentrators provide a sustainable and cost-effective source of medical oxygen and are designed for continuous operation. While oxygen cylinders require refilling and need to be transported in cryogenic tankers, concentrators are easily portable and only need a power source to draw in ambient air.

BCCI to donate 10-litre 2000 oxygen concentrators to help India's battle against COVID-19

Manchester City cruised to their third Premier League title in four seasons, but Pep Guardiola's side are likely to face a tough defence of the crown next season.

Liverpool and Manchester United look capable of pushing the champions, while Chelsea should be in the mix after Thomas Tuchel's impressive impact on the Champions League finalists.

AFP Sport looks at how the four leading title contenders will shape up:

<h2>Manchester City</h2>

After the midway point of the season, City were virtually untouchable as they surged clear with a record 21-game winning streak in all competitions by an English top-flight side.

Revitalised by the addition of Portugese international centre-back Ruben Dias and the emergence of England playmaker Phil Foden, City silenced the critics who questioned Pep Guardiola after the Spaniard suffered the worst start to a season in his managerial career.

Regaining the title from Liverpool, while also winning the League Cup and reaching their first Champions League final, suggests City are in position for a period of sustained dominance.

They have few weaknesses but the close-season departure of Sergio Aguero, the club's record goalscorer, leaves a void that needs filling.

England striker Harry Kane could be top of Guardiola's shopping list after confirming he wants to leave Tottenham, but his mooted £150 million ($213 million) price tag may convince him to look at the younger and cheaper Borussia Dortmund goal machine Erling Haaland.

<h2>Manchester United</h2>

United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer survived some rocky spells to establish his side as genuine title contenders heading into next season.

Solskjaer led United to a second place finish -- 12 points behind City -- and the Norwegian has a chance to win the first trophy of his reign in the Europa League final against Villarreal on Wednesday.

Portugal star Bruno Fernandes has been the catalyst, providing on-field inspiration and dressing room leadership in equal measure, a stark contrast to the gifted but temperamental Paul Pogba.

Marcus Rashford and Mason Greenwood were potent in patches and keeping Edinson Cavani was a wise move, but Kane has also been linked with a move to Old Trafford with Solskjaer needing a world-class striker in his prime to really worry City.

Jadon Sancho and Jack Grealish are also reportedly targets to add extra creativity and goals from the wide areas.

But bigger questions remain in defence with Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof not always convincing at centre-back, while Dean Henderson and David De Gea battle to be number one goalkeeper.

<h2>Liverpool</h2>

Hamstrung by a seemingly endless injury list that deprived them of key leaders Virgil van Dijk and Jordan Henderson for most of the season, Liverpool finished outside the top two for the first time in three years.

Jurgen Klopp's often tetchy demeanour reflected the stress of an arduous campaign as Liverpool failed to build on last season's first English title in 30 years.

But a strong run of eight wins in their last 10 league games earned a third-place finish, providing optimism for next term.

Sadio Mane, Roberto Firmino and Trent Alexander-Arnold must improve on patchy individual campaigns, with Mohamed Salah's future also up for debate after his flirtation with Real Madrid.

While Liverpool have work to do if they are to regain their position as the Premier League's preeminent force, the return of Van Dijk, Henderson and Joe Gomez next season will be a significant boost to their title hopes.

<h2>Chelsea</h2>

When Frank Lampard was sacked in January, Chelsea were languishing in ninth place as a troubled season threatened to spiral out of control.

However, the decision to hire Thomas Tuchel as Lampard's replacement proved inspired and the German has fourth-placed Chelsea nicely positioned to push on next season.

Aided by Mason Mount's superb form, Tuchel has taken Chelsea to the Champions League final for the first time since 2012, with Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid unable to solve the tactical tweaks that made the Blues solid in defence and deadly on the counter-attack.

Having healed the fractures in a squad divided by Lampard's methods, Tuchel has already masterminded two victories over City and one against Liverpool.

To truly turn Chelsea into a force, the former Paris Saint Germain boss must solve the problems posed by the erratic form of expensive signings Timo Werner, Kai Havertz and Hakim Ziyech.

Manchester City cruised to their third Premier League title in four seasons, but Pep Guardiola's side are likely to face a tough defence of the crown next season.

Manchester City cruised to their third Premier League title in four seasons, but Pep Guardiola's side are likely to face a tough defence of the crown next season. Liverpool and Manchester United look capable of pushing the champions, while Chelsea should be in the mix after Thomas Tuchel's impressive impact on the Champions League finalists. AFP Sport looks at how the four leading title contenders will shape up: Manchester City After the midway point of the season, City were virtually untouchable as they surged clear with a record 21-game winning streak in all competitions by an English top-flight side. Revitalised by the addition of Portugese international centre-back Ruben Dias and the emergence of England playmaker Phil Foden, City silenced the critics who questioned Pep Guardiola after the Spaniard suffered the worst start to a season in his managerial career. Regaining the title from Liverpool, while also winning the League Cup and reaching their first Champions League final, suggests City are in position for a period of sustained dominance. They have few weaknesses but the close-season departure of Sergio Aguero, the club's record goalscorer, leaves a void that needs filling. England striker Harry Kane could be top of Guardiola's shopping list after confirming he wants to leave Tottenham, but his mooted £150 million ($213 million) price tag may convince him to look at the younger and cheaper Borussia Dortmund goal machine Erling Haaland. Manchester United United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer survived some rocky spells to establish his side as genuine title contenders heading into next season. Solskjaer led United to a second place finish -- 12 points behind City -- and the Norwegian has a chance to win the first trophy of his reign in the Europa League final against Villarreal on Wednesday. Portugal star Bruno Fernandes has been the catalyst, providing on-field inspiration and dressing room leadership in equal measure, a stark contrast to the gifted but temperamental Paul Pogba. Marcus Rashford and Mason Greenwood were potent in patches and keeping Edinson Cavani was a wise move, but Kane has also been linked with a move to Old Trafford with Solskjaer needing a world-class striker in his prime to really worry City. Jadon Sancho and Jack Grealish are also reportedly targets to add extra creativity and goals from the wide areas. But bigger questions remain in defence with Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof not always convincing at centre-back, while Dean Henderson and David De Gea battle to be number one goalkeeper. Liverpool Hamstrung by a seemingly endless injury list that deprived them of key leaders Virgil van Dijk and Jordan Henderson for most of the season, Liverpool finished outside the top two for the first time in three years. Jurgen Klopp's often tetchy demeanour reflected the stress of an arduous campaign as Liverpool failed to build on last season's first English title in 30 years. But a strong run of eight wins in their last 10 league games earned a third-place finish, providing optimism for next term. Sadio Mane, Roberto Firmino and Trent Alexander-Arnold must improve on patchy individual campaigns, with Mohamed Salah's future also up for debate after his flirtation with Real Madrid. While Liverpool have work to do if they are to regain their position as the Premier League's preeminent force, the return of Van Dijk, Henderson and Joe Gomez next season will be a significant boost to their title hopes. Chelsea When Frank Lampard was sacked in January, Chelsea were languishing in ninth place as a troubled season threatened to spiral out of control. However, the decision to hire Thomas Tuchel as Lampard's replacement proved inspired and the German has fourth-placed Chelsea nicely positioned to push on next season. Aided by Mason Mount's superb form, Tuchel has taken Chelsea to the Champions League final for the first time since 2012, with Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid unable to solve the tactical tweaks that made the Blues solid in defence and deadly on the counter-attack. Having healed the fractures in a squad divided by Lampard's methods, Tuchel has already masterminded two victories over City and one against Liverpool. To truly turn Chelsea into a force, the former Paris Saint Germain boss must solve the problems posed by the erratic form of expensive signings Timo Werner, Kai Havertz and Hakim Ziyech.

Football: Who will challenge for Man City's Premier League crown next season?

An investigation was underway Monday into the deaths of 21 runners during a mountain ultramarathon in northwest China, as harrowing testimony emerged from survivors who battled to safety through freezing temperatures and bone-chilling winds.

The extreme weather struck a high-altitude section of the 100-kilometre (62-mile) race held in the scenic Yellow River Stone Forest in Gansu province Saturday afternoon.

Provincial authorities have set up an investigation team to look into the cause of the incident, state media reported, as questions swirled over why organisers apparently ignored extreme weather warnings from the city's Early Warning Information Centre in the lead up to the race, which attracted 172 runners.

China's top sports body also vowed to tighten safety rules on holding events across the country.

Survivors gave shocking testimony of events on the rugged mountainside, where unconfirmed meteorological reports to local media said temperatures had plunged to as low as minus 24 degrees Celsius (minus 11 degrees Fahrenheit).

"The wind was too strong and I repeatedly fell over," wrote race participant Zhang Xiaotao in a Weibo post.

"My limbs were frozen stiff and I felt like I was slowly losing control of my body... I wrapped my insulation blanket around me, took out my GPS tracker, pressed the SOS button and lost consciousness."

He said when he came round he discovered a shepherd had carried him to a cave, placed him by the fire and wrapped him in a duvet.

<h2>- 'Foaming at their mouths' -</h2>

Marathon survivor Luo Jing told state broadcaster CCTV she saw runners struggling back down the mountain wearing only T-shirts and shorts.

They "described to us people foaming at their mouths, and urged us to quit the race as soon as possible," she said.

Other survivors said insulation blankets provided by organisers were blown to shreds by strong winds.

One told state media as he battled down the mountain he saw many people lying on the ground, some he believed to be dead.

Gansu province, which includes part of the Gobi desert, is often subject to extreme weather conditions including sandstorms.

Baiyin city, where the race was held, reaches up an elevation of more than 3,300 metres (11,000 feet).

The Gansu Meteorological Bureau had warned of "sudden heavy showers, hail, lightning, sudden gale-force winds" and other adverse weather conditions across the province in a report dated Friday.

Victims included elite Chinese long-distance runners Liang Jing and Huang Guanjun, local media reported.&nbsp;

Liang had won multiple Chinese ultramarathons in recent years while Huang won the men's hearing-impaired marathon at the 2019 National Paralympic Games.

Fury mounted on Chinese social media after the disaster, with many users blaming organisers for poor contingency planning.

More than 84 million viewed the hashtag "Is the Gansu marathon accident natural or man-made?", while 130 million scoured a thread around safety concerns for marathons and cross-county races.

"This is purely a man-made disaster," wrote one.

China's top sports governing body has issued instructions to the country's sports system to improve safety management in sports events.

The previous management model for safety in races "had some problems and deficiencies", the sports administration said in a readout published Monday, and said all organisations would now have to set up detailed contingency plans and a mechanism to halt the event quickly if needed.

An investigation was underway Monday into the deaths of 21 runners during a mountain ultramarathon in northwest China, as harrowing testimony emerged from survivors who battled to safety through freezing temperatures and bone-chilling winds.

An investigation was underway Monday into the deaths of 21 runners during a mountain ultramarathon in northwest China, as harrowing testimony emerged from survivors who battled to safety through freezing temperatures and bone-chilling winds. The extreme weather struck a high-altitude section of the 100-kilometre (62-mile) race held in the scenic Yellow River Stone Forest in Gansu province Saturday afternoon. Provincial authorities have set up an investigation team to look into the cause of the incident, state media reported, as questions swirled over why organisers apparently ignored extreme weather warnings from the city's Early Warning Information Centre in the lead up to the race, which attracted 172 runners. China's top sports body also vowed to tighten safety rules on holding events across the country. Survivors gave shocking testimony of events on the rugged mountainside, where unconfirmed meteorological reports to local media said temperatures had plunged to as low as minus 24 degrees Celsius (minus 11 degrees Fahrenheit). "The wind was too strong and I repeatedly fell over," wrote race participant Zhang Xiaotao in a Weibo post. "My limbs were frozen stiff and I felt like I was slowly losing control of my body... I wrapped my insulation blanket around me, took out my GPS tracker, pressed the SOS button and lost consciousness." He said when he came round he discovered a shepherd had carried him to a cave, placed him by the fire and wrapped him in a duvet. - 'Foaming at their mouths' - Marathon survivor Luo Jing told state broadcaster CCTV she saw runners struggling back down the mountain wearing only T-shirts and shorts. They "described to us people foaming at their mouths, and urged us to quit the race as soon as possible," she said. Other survivors said insulation blankets provided by organisers were blown to shreds by strong winds. One told state media as he battled down the mountain he saw many people lying on the ground, some he believed to be dead. Gansu province, which includes part of the Gobi desert, is often subject to extreme weather conditions including sandstorms. Baiyin city, where the race was held, reaches up an elevation of more than 3,300 metres (11,000 feet). The Gansu Meteorological Bureau had warned of "sudden heavy showers, hail, lightning, sudden gale-force winds" and other adverse weather conditions across the province in a report dated Friday. Victims included elite Chinese long-distance runners Liang Jing and Huang Guanjun, local media reported. Liang had won multiple Chinese ultramarathons in recent years while Huang won the men's hearing-impaired marathon at the 2019 National Paralympic Games. Fury mounted on Chinese social media after the disaster, with many users blaming organisers for poor contingency planning. More than 84 million viewed the hashtag "Is the Gansu marathon accident natural or man-made?", while 130 million scoured a thread around safety concerns for marathons and cross-county races. "This is purely a man-made disaster," wrote one. China's top sports governing body has issued instructions to the country's sports system to improve safety management in sports events. The previous management model for safety in races "had some problems and deficiencies", the sports administration said in a readout published Monday, and said all organisations would now have to set up detailed contingency plans and a mechanism to halt the event quickly if needed.

China probes deaths of 21 runners after freak weather hits ultramarathon

Max Verstappen capitalised on Ferrari pole-sitter Charles Leclerc's cruel last-minute withdrawal to win Sunday's Monaco Grand Prix and go top of the drivers' world championship for the first time.

Carlos Sainz for Ferrari took second with Lando Norris of McLaren completing the podium.

Red Bull's Verstappen displaced Lewis Hamilton at the top of the 2021 standings after the Mercedes world champion finished in seventh.

The Dutch driver pitched up in the Principality trailing Hamilton by 14 points, and leaves it four points ahead.

"It's so special to win. The first time for me on the podium here. It was all about looking after the tyres. I was pretty much in control," said Verstappen after taking the chequered flag waved by tennis superstar Serena Williams.

Hamilton had a low key weekend, qualifying in seventh and finishing in seventh.

His teammate Valtteri Bottas was in contention to pounce on any mistake by Verstappen.

But then his race came to an embarrassing end when a routine pitstop took a disastrous turn as a wheel refused to come off.

The Finn's frustration will have been nothing to the heartache Leclerc suffered just before the start when he reported a gearbox problem on his Ferrari.

For the locally-born Leclerc it was a cruel end to his dream of winning his home grand prix.

<h2>- 'Difficult to take' -</h2>

"In the garage it was very difficult to feel ok, but I guess now I'm getting used to this feeling here unfortunately," said Leclerc.&nbsp;

"I've never finished a race here - this year, I don't start it. It's a difficult one to take and I also feel for the team."

His last minute absence was all the more unexpected as a couple of hours earlier Ferrari had announced repairs had been carried out without a grid penalty after Leclerc's accident in qualifying 24 hours earlier.

For the 23-year-old it was just the latest misfortune at Monaco.

Despite his familiarity with the narrow, unforgiving street circuit his record at his home race remains bleak.

His ill luck at the Mediterranean jewel in F1's crown had already resurfaced on Thursday after gearbox problems ruined his opening practice session.

From then on his fortunes flipped. He topped FP2, then qualified in pole for the first time since Mexico in 2019.

But his crash, which ended qualifying prematurely left him anxiously waiting for the all-clear from the mechanics working on his damaged car.

That came on Sunday morning, only for heartache to follow as he made his way around the circuit to the start when he came on the team radio reporting he had a problem, saying "No, no, no - the gearbox guys".

Back in the pits Ferrari mechanics pounced on the car to see if anything could be done to even allow him to start from the pitlane.

When it became obvious that wasn't possible, a dejected Leclerc emerged from his stricken car's cockpit to head for the grid and the pre-race ceremonies, receiving a consoling hug from Prince Albert II of Monaco.

Leclerc's absence will have come as a bitter disappointment to his supporters in the 7,500 crowd allowed to watch the race from the grandstands as coronavirus restrictions are gradually lifted.

Verstappen inherited pole position which takes on greater significance in Monaco where overtaking opportunities are as rare as a royal flush at Monaco's mythic Casino.

And so it proved with the Red Bull driver becoming the 12th winner from pole in the last 16 editions to enhance his claims as the main obstacle between Hamilton and a record eighth world title.

The F1 circus next heads to the Azerbaijan Grand Prix in Baku in two weeks' time.

Max Verstappen capitalised on Ferrari pole-sitter Charles Leclerc's cruel last-minute withdrawal to win Sunday's Monaco Grand Prix and go top of the drivers' world championship for the first time.

Max Verstappen capitalised on Ferrari pole-sitter Charles Leclerc's cruel last-minute withdrawal to win Sunday's Monaco Grand Prix and go top of the drivers' world championship for the first time. Carlos Sainz for Ferrari took second with Lando Norris of McLaren completing the podium. Red Bull's Verstappen displaced Lewis Hamilton at the top of the 2021 standings after the Mercedes world champion finished in seventh. The Dutch driver pitched up in the Principality trailing Hamilton by 14 points, and leaves it four points ahead. "It's so special to win. The first time for me on the podium here. It was all about looking after the tyres. I was pretty much in control," said Verstappen after taking the chequered flag waved by tennis superstar Serena Williams. Hamilton had a low key weekend, qualifying in seventh and finishing in seventh. His teammate Valtteri Bottas was in contention to pounce on any mistake by Verstappen. But then his race came to an embarrassing end when a routine pitstop took a disastrous turn as a wheel refused to come off. The Finn's frustration will have been nothing to the heartache Leclerc suffered just before the start when he reported a gearbox problem on his Ferrari. For the locally-born Leclerc it was a cruel end to his dream of winning his home grand prix. - 'Difficult to take' - "In the garage it was very difficult to feel ok, but I guess now I'm getting used to this feeling here unfortunately," said Leclerc. "I've never finished a race here - this year, I don't start it. It's a difficult one to take and I also feel for the team." His last minute absence was all the more unexpected as a couple of hours earlier Ferrari had announced repairs had been carried out without a grid penalty after Leclerc's accident in qualifying 24 hours earlier. For the 23-year-old it was just the latest misfortune at Monaco. Despite his familiarity with the narrow, unforgiving street circuit his record at his home race remains bleak. His ill luck at the Mediterranean jewel in F1's crown had already resurfaced on Thursday after gearbox problems ruined his opening practice session. From then on his fortunes flipped. He topped FP2, then qualified in pole for the first time since Mexico in 2019. But his crash, which ended qualifying prematurely left him anxiously waiting for the all-clear from the mechanics working on his damaged car. That came on Sunday morning, only for heartache to follow as he made his way around the circuit to the start when he came on the team radio reporting he had a problem, saying "No, no, no - the gearbox guys". Back in the pits Ferrari mechanics pounced on the car to see if anything could be done to even allow him to start from the pitlane. When it became obvious that wasn't possible, a dejected Leclerc emerged from his stricken car's cockpit to head for the grid and the pre-race ceremonies, receiving a consoling hug from Prince Albert II of Monaco. Leclerc's absence will have come as a bitter disappointment to his supporters in the 7,500 crowd allowed to watch the race from the grandstands as coronavirus restrictions are gradually lifted. Verstappen inherited pole position which takes on greater significance in Monaco where overtaking opportunities are as rare as a royal flush at Monaco's mythic Casino. And so it proved with the Red Bull driver becoming the 12th winner from pole in the last 16 editions to enhance his claims as the main obstacle between Hamilton and a record eighth world title. The F1 circus next heads to the Azerbaijan Grand Prix in Baku in two weeks' time.

F1: Verstappen makes most of Leclerc's Monaco misery to take championship lead

Manchester City’s greatest-ever goal scorer and one of the finest forwards to have graced the English top-flight, Sergio Aguero is set to play his final game for the Blues at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday. The Premier League 2020-21 season comes to a conclusion on Sunday and Manchester City will give a fitting farewell to the Argentine striker by lifting the Premier League trophy in front of 10,000 fans at the Etihad Stadium.<o:p></o:p>

While Aguero would still have one more match left for Man City in the final of UEFA Champions League, the match on Sunday, against Everton, will be his last in the Etihad Stadium as he bids farewell following a trophy-laden decade at the Premier League club.<o:p></o:p>

Aguero has scored a club-record 258 goals since joining from Atletico Madrid in 2011, winning five Premier League titles among other silverware.

<o:p></o:p>

Aguero was presented with a mosaic inspired by his first-ever Manchester City goal against Swansea City in 2011. The mosaic has been installed at the City Football Academy, beside a pitch that will now bear his name, having been dedicated to the Club’s all-time record goal-scorer.

The Argentine was also pictured with all 15 of the trophies he has won during his time here in Manchester, and also at the Northern Quarter where a mural of Sergio’s famous 93:20 moment has been painted.

Ahead of the final home match for Manchester City, Aguero thanked the Cityzens for ever-lasting support as he said the process becomes easier when a player is backed by the fans.

<o:p></o:p>

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Signed by the man himself. ✍️😍 <a href="https://twitter.com/aguerosergiokun?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@aguerosergiokun</a> // <a href="https://twitter.com/ManCity?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ManCity</a> <a href="https://t.co/GpyRUQ7fgO">pic.twitter.com/GpyRUQ7fgO</a>
— City Xtra (@City_Xtra) <a href="https://twitter.com/City_Xtra/status/1396162301204570116?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 22, 2021</a></blockquote>
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“My message to the fans is: ‘Thank you,’” Aguero told Man City’s official website. “Thank you to the City fans for always supporting me.<o:p></o:p>

“When you feel the love from your fans, everything is a lot easier. It’s the same for anyone in any line of work - when someone believes in you, you do better. I owe a lot to the people at this Club because I have the City fans to thank for everything.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-fifa-to-carry-out-study-on-holding-world-cup-every-two-years-386693" hreflang="en">Football: FIFA to carry out study on holding World Cup every two years</a><o:p></o:p>

“I remember being on the pitch and playing badly – games where I have played really badly – but it was incredible to see the fans still got behind me. I remember them shouting my name. I just want to say thank you and hope that they enjoy this moment.<o:p></o:p>

“I have always felt it (appreciation), even from Manchester United fans! I go out to eat and everyone always shows me a lot of respect.<o:p></o:p>

“It makes me really happy because I know that I have given my all for them. I have also met so many fans who are totally crazy about City, with tattoos, and I understand this kind of fanbase for a Club like this one."<o:p></o:p>

The Argentine has had an injury-hit final campaign and has missed the past two games, but manager Guardiola is confident he will be able to receive a rousing farewell from the 10,000 fans who will be at the Etihad this weekend.<o:p></o:p>

Aguero, fourth in the Premier League all-time scorers list with 182 goals, will forever be remembered for his injury-time strike that secured City's first Premier League title in 2012.The Argentine striker – the Club’s all-time record goalscorer – will don the City shirt for the final time at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday, as the Champions welcome Everton in the Premier League’s season finale.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-man-citys-ruben-dias-named-fwa-player-of-the-year-386227" hreflang="en">Football: Man City's Ruben Dias named FWA Player of the Year</a><o:p></o:p>

With 10,000 supporters in attendance at the stadium for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic, fans will be able to bid an emotional farewell to Kun, showing their appreciation for a remarkable career in blue.<o:p></o:p>

Aguero further recalled his best moment for Manchester City and his career – something he would want to relive – as he named the stoppage-time winner against Queens Park Rangers in 2012, which helped Manchester City win the Premier League for the first time in 44 years. <o:p></o:p>

“It is the best memory that I will ever have in my head,” he declared.

<o:p></o:p>

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🥺 <a href="https://twitter.com/aguerosergiokun?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AgueroSergioKun</a>'s last <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PL</a> game. 
🔝The 𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙖𝙡 𝙙𝙖𝙮 of the 20/21 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PL</a> season. 
🏆 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PL</a> trophy lift at the Etihad Stadium. 
 
🥰 It’s only right... <a href="https://t.co/S85yUL2OcE">pic.twitter.com/S85yUL2OcE</a>
— Man City Report (@cityreport_) <a href="https://twitter.com/cityreport_/status/1396179096426721283?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 22, 2021</a></blockquote>
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“I don’t think it will happen again in another country or in this one. It’s not something that can be repeated. For me, I don’t know if it was the best goal because obviously it was just another goal, but it was the best moment of my life.<o:p></o:p>

“Every time I watch the goal with my friends, or my son shows it to me and I watch with my family, it seems as though it was last year when actually a lot of time has passed but I will always remember this goal like it was yesterday.<o:p></o:p>

“It was just so crazy, so amazing. We won more titles after this one and those celebrations were the same but the celebrations that year were different, very different.<o:p></o:p>

“I remember that night we went with our families and everyone from the Club to party. We were all still in shock. We were saying: ‘This is crazy! We just won the Premier League and in the last minute!’<o:p></o:p>

&nbsp;“I think we celebrated for two days in a row with all of our families and everyone at the Club. It was incredible. Two days of crazy partying but with family, people from the Club and with teammates.<o:p></o:p>

“Every time we saw each other, we would shout: ‘Champions, Champions!’ We were just so happy. It was a unique moment – different to everything else.<o:p></o:p>

“It was a dream. Obviously, in the game, we knew that we could win the league. We could have scored earlier and then you’re counting down the minutes waiting for the celebrations but it is a different kind of celebration when you score at the very end. It was total madness!”<o:p></o:p>

However, with UEFA Champions League final against Chelsea set to be played on May 29 in Porto, Aguero would be itching to have the perfect farewell by lifting the most important trophy in club football. <o:p></o:p>

Manchester City’s greatest-ever goal scorer and one of the finest forwards to have graced the English top-flight, Sergio Aguero is set to play his final game for the Blues at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday.

Manchester City’s greatest-ever goal scorer and one of the finest forwards to have graced the English top-flight, Sergio Aguero is set to play his final game for the Blues at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday. The Premier League 2020-21 season comes to a conclusion on Sunday and Manchester City will give a fitting farewell to the Argentine striker by lifting the Premier League trophy in front of 10,000 fans at the Etihad Stadium. While Aguero would still have one more match left for Man City in the final of UEFA Champions League, the match on Sunday, against Everton, will be his last in the Etihad Stadium as he bids farewell following a trophy-laden decade at the Premier League club. Aguero has scored a club-record 258 goals since joining from Atletico Madrid in 2011, winning five Premier League titles among other silverware. Aguero was presented with a mosaic inspired by his first-ever Manchester City goal against Swansea City in 2011. The mosaic has been installed at the City Football Academy, beside a pitch that will now bear his name, having been dedicated to the Club’s all-time record goal-scorer. The Argentine was also pictured with all 15 of the trophies he has won during his time here in Manchester, and also at the Northern Quarter where a mural of Sergio’s famous 93:20 moment has been painted. Ahead of the final home match for Manchester City, Aguero thanked the Cityzens for ever-lasting support as he said the process becomes easier when a player is backed by the fans. Signed by the man himself. ✍️😍 @aguerosergiokun // @ManCity pic.twitter.com/GpyRUQ7fgO — City Xtra (@City_Xtra) May 22, 2021 × “My message to the fans is: ‘Thank you,’” Aguero told Man City’s official website. “Thank you to the City fans for always supporting me. “When you feel the love from your fans, everything is a lot easier. It’s the same for anyone in any line of work - when someone believes in you, you do better. I owe a lot to the people at this Club because I have the City fans to thank for everything. ALSO READ: Football: FIFA to carry out study on holding World Cup every two years “I remember being on the pitch and playing badly – games where I have played really badly – but it was incredible to see the fans still got behind me. I remember them shouting my name. I just want to say thank you and hope that they enjoy this moment. “I have always felt it (appreciation), even from Manchester United fans! I go out to eat and everyone always shows me a lot of respect. “It makes me really happy because I know that I have given my all for them. I have also met so many fans who are totally crazy about City, with tattoos, and I understand this kind of fanbase for a Club like this one." The Argentine has had an injury-hit final campaign and has missed the past two games, but manager Guardiola is confident he will be able to receive a rousing farewell from the 10,000 fans who will be at the Etihad this weekend. Aguero, fourth in the Premier League all-time scorers list with 182 goals, will forever be remembered for his injury-time strike that secured City's first Premier League title in 2012.The Argentine striker – the Club’s all-time record goalscorer – will don the City shirt for the final time at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday, as the Champions welcome Everton in the Premier League’s season finale. ALSO READ: Football: Man City's Ruben Dias named FWA Player of the Year With 10,000 supporters in attendance at the stadium for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic, fans will be able to bid an emotional farewell to Kun, showing their appreciation for a remarkable career in blue. Aguero further recalled his best moment for Manchester City and his career – something he would want to relive – as he named the stoppage-time winner against Queens Park Rangers in 2012, which helped Manchester City win the Premier League for the first time in 44 years. “It is the best memory that I will ever have in my head,” he declared. 🥺 @AgueroSergioKun's last #PL game. 🔝The 𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙖𝙡 𝙙𝙖𝙮 of the 20/21 #PL season. 🏆 #PL trophy lift at the Etihad Stadium. 🥰 It’s only right... pic.twitter.com/S85yUL2OcE — Man City Report (@cityreport_) May 22, 2021 × “I don’t think it will happen again in another country or in this one. It’s not something that can be repeated. For me, I don’t know if it was the best goal because obviously it was just another goal, but it was the best moment of my life. “Every time I watch the goal with my friends, or my son shows it to me and I watch with my family, it seems as though it was last year when actually a lot of time has passed but I will always remember this goal like it was yesterday. “It was just so crazy, so amazing. We won more titles after this one and those celebrations were the same but the celebrations that year were different, very different. “I remember that night we went with our families and everyone from the Club to party. We were all still in shock. We were saying: ‘This is crazy! We just won the Premier League and in the last minute!’ “I think we celebrated for two days in a row with all of our families and everyone at the Club. It was incredible. Two days of crazy partying but with family, people from the Club and with teammates. “Every time we saw each other, we would shout: ‘Champions, Champions!’ We were just so happy. It was a unique moment – different to everything else. “It was a dream. Obviously, in the game, we knew that we could win the league. We could have scored earlier and then you’re counting down the minutes waiting for the celebrations but it is a different kind of celebration when you score at the very end. It was total madness!” However, with UEFA Champions League final against Chelsea set to be played on May 29 in Porto, Aguero would be itching to have the perfect farewell by lifting the most important trophy in club football.

'Best moment of my life': Sergio Aguero recalls stoppage-time winner vs QPR as he ends decade-long stay at Man City

The Jamaica Tallawahs have announced their retentions for the 2021 Caribbean Premier League which runs from August 28 to September 19 in St Kitts and Nevis. <o:p></o:p>

The Tallawahs have retained West Indies all-rounders Andre Russell and Carlos Brathwaite as well as Rovman Powell and Chadwick Walton. <o:p></o:p>&nbsp;Fidel Edwards returned to the CPL in 2020 and he has been held on to for the 2021 season after impressing with his pace last year. <o:p></o:p>

The Tallawahs are also welcoming back left-arm spinner Verasammy Permaul and their ICC Americas player from last season, Ryan Persaud<o:p></o:p>

The Tallawahs have 10 spots to fill to complete their squad and the new names will be announced in the coming weeks.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-south-africa-unlikely-to-win-t20-world-cup-without-ab-de-villiers-reckons-aakash-chopra-386855" hreflang="en">Cricket: South Africa unlikely to win T20 World Cup without AB de Villiers, reckons Aakash Chopra</a><o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Jamaica Tallawahs retentions for CPL 2021<o:p></o:p></h2>

<ul>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Andre Russell<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Carlos Brathwaite<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Rovman Powell <o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Chadwick Walton<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Fidel Edwards<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Veerasammy Permaul<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Ryan Persaud<o:p></o:p></li>
</ul>

First started in 2013, the Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) is a franchise-based T20 format cricket tournament that combines two of the most compelling aspects of Caribbean life – dramatic cricket and a vibrant Carnival atmosphere.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-women-cricketers-to-receive-t20-world-cup-2020-prize-money-this-week-386929" hreflang="en">Indian women cricketers to receive T20 World Cup 2020 prize money this week</a>

There was a combined broadcast and digital viewership of over 500 million during the 2020 season to make it one of the most-watched leagues in world cricket. Trinbago Knight Riders are the current Hero CPL champions and the other competing teams are Barbados Tridents, Guyana Amazon Warriors, St. Kitts &amp; Nevis Patriots, St. Lucia Zouks and Jamaica Tallawahs. <o:p></o:p>

The 2021 tournament is in St Kitts &amp; Nevis from August 28 to September 19.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p></o:p>

The Jamaica Tallawahs have announced their retentions for the 2021 Caribbean Premier League which runs from August 28 to September 19 in St Kitts and Nevis. The Tallawahs have retained West Indies all-rounders Andre Russell and Carlos Brathwaite as well as Rovman Powell and Chadwick Walton.

The Jamaica Tallawahs have announced their retentions for the 2021 Caribbean Premier League which runs from August 28 to September 19 in St Kitts and Nevis. The Tallawahs have retained West Indies all-rounders Andre Russell and Carlos Brathwaite as well as Rovman Powell and Chadwick Walton. Fidel Edwards returned to the CPL in 2020 and he has been held on to for the 2021 season after impressing with his pace last year. The Tallawahs are also welcoming back left-arm spinner Verasammy Permaul and their ICC Americas player from last season, Ryan Persaud The Tallawahs have 10 spots to fill to complete their squad and the new names will be announced in the coming weeks. ALSO READ: Cricket: South Africa unlikely to win T20 World Cup without AB de Villiers, reckons Aakash Chopra Jamaica Tallawahs retentions for CPL 2021 Andre Russell Carlos Brathwaite Rovman Powell Chadwick Walton Fidel Edwards Veerasammy Permaul Ryan Persaud First started in 2013, the Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) is a franchise-based T20 format cricket tournament that combines two of the most compelling aspects of Caribbean life – dramatic cricket and a vibrant Carnival atmosphere. ALSO READ: Indian women cricketers to receive T20 World Cup 2020 prize money this week There was a combined broadcast and digital viewership of over 500 million during the 2020 season to make it one of the most-watched leagues in world cricket. Trinbago Knight Riders are the current Hero CPL champions and the other competing teams are Barbados Tridents, Guyana Amazon Warriors, St. Kitts & Nevis Patriots, St. Lucia Zouks and Jamaica Tallawahs. The 2021 tournament is in St Kitts & Nevis from August 28 to September 19.

Cricket: Jamaica Tallawahs announce retentions for Caribbean Premier League 2021

Olympic medallist Sushil Kumar and co-accused Ajay Kumar, have been sent to six days in police custody by a Delhi court on Sunday. Sushil Kumar and Ajay Kumar were arrested on Sunday for the alleged murder of a 23-year-old national wrestling champion. <o:p></o:p>

Delhi Police moved a 12-day police remand application of the two accused as it stated that the victims were “beaten like wild animals”. Both Sushil and Ajay were produced before Duty Metropolitan Magistrate Divya Malhotra, where the police moved an application while seeking 12-day custody, according to the Indian Express. <o:p></o:p>

Sushil Kumar had been absconding since May 5, when an FIR was registered against him under several Sections of IPC including Section 302 (murder) at Model Town police station.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/virat-kohli-isnt-the-highest-paid-captain-in-international-cricket-check-full-list-of-skippers-and-salaries-in-2021-386865" hreflang="en">Virat Kohli isn't the highest-paid captain in international cricket! - Check full list of skippers and salaries in 2021</a>

<o:p></o:p>

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An Olympian and a National wrestler, running wanted for a crime of murder, arrested on World Wrestling Day (May 23).. 
 
Accused Sushil Kumar and Ajay arrested after a fortnight’s chase across 6 states/UTs.. 
 
Shall now face the law of the land.. <a href="https://t.co/oLh4qc0R14">pic.twitter.com/oLh4qc0R14</a>
— Special Cell, Delhi Police (@CellDelhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/CellDelhi/status/1396409512454549507?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2021</a></blockquote>
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On May 4, Sagar Dhankhar, a 23-year-old wrestler, was beaten to death following a clash between two groups. <o:p></o:p>

Additional Public Prosecutor Atul Srivastava told the court that both the accused persons and victim were medal-winning wrestlers and “we have rule of law, everyone is equal before it.”

<o:p></o:p>

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | A team of Delhi Police Special Cell arrested Wrestler Sushil Kumar; visuals from Saket Police Station. 
 
(Source: Delhi Police) <a href="https://t.co/tauURqxvC2">pic.twitter.com/tauURqxvC2</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1396343358323236866?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Srivastava added: “The CCTV footage was dismantled. This has to be recovered. The motive behind commission of this offence also has to be seen. They had beaten them like wild animals. The clothes which he was wearing also had to be recovered,” further saying, “objective was to create terror in the entire area also.”<o:p></o:p>

The court was further told that three of the five victims in the case were brought from Model Town and other two from Shalimar Bagh to Chhatrasal Stadium and “they were beaten.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hockey-india-congratulates-narinder-batra-on-being-elected-as-president-of-fih-386871" hreflang="en">Hockey India congratulates Narinder Batra on being elected as president of FIH</a><o:p></o:p>

“There is a one minute video clip where one accused Sushil and co-accused were beating other persons. The five persons were brought by the accused from Model Town and Shalimar Bagh… brought in different cars. He was originally given the job by GOI considering his ability in wrestling. He was officer in charge in Chhatrasal stadium,” the APP told the court.<o:p></o:p>

“We have to unearth the specific role of dozens of persons. He had taken the help of one gang who included a man of criminal antecedents. He (Sushil) had hidden somewhere in Punjab or Haryana. We have to take him there,” the APP told the court.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

Olympic medallist Sushil Kumar and co-accused Ajay Kumar, have been sent to six days in police custody by a Delhi court on Sunday. Sushil Kumar and Ajay Kumar were arrested on Sunday for the alleged murder of a 23-year-old national wrestling champion.

Olympic medallist Sushil Kumar and co-accused Ajay Kumar, have been sent to six days in police custody by a Delhi court on Sunday. Sushil Kumar and Ajay Kumar were arrested on Sunday for the alleged murder of a 23-year-old national wrestling champion. Delhi Police moved a 12-day police remand application of the two accused as it stated that the victims were “beaten like wild animals”. Both Sushil and Ajay were produced before Duty Metropolitan Magistrate Divya Malhotra, where the police moved an application while seeking 12-day custody, according to the Indian Express. Sushil Kumar had been absconding since May 5, when an FIR was registered against him under several Sections of IPC including Section 302 (murder) at Model Town police station. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli isn't the highest-paid captain in international cricket! - Check full list of skippers and salaries in 2021 An Olympian and a National wrestler, running wanted for a crime of murder, arrested on World Wrestling Day (May 23).. Accused Sushil Kumar and Ajay arrested after a fortnight’s chase across 6 states/UTs.. Shall now face the law of the land.. pic.twitter.com/oLh4qc0R14 — Special Cell, Delhi Police (@CellDelhi) May 23, 2021 × On May 4, Sagar Dhankhar, a 23-year-old wrestler, was beaten to death following a clash between two groups. Additional Public Prosecutor Atul Srivastava told the court that both the accused persons and victim were medal-winning wrestlers and “we have rule of law, everyone is equal before it.” #WATCH | A team of Delhi Police Special Cell arrested Wrestler Sushil Kumar; visuals from Saket Police Station. (Source: Delhi Police) pic.twitter.com/tauURqxvC2 — ANI (@ANI) May 23, 2021 × Srivastava added: “The CCTV footage was dismantled. This has to be recovered. The motive behind commission of this offence also has to be seen. They had beaten them like wild animals. The clothes which he was wearing also had to be recovered,” further saying, “objective was to create terror in the entire area also.” The court was further told that three of the five victims in the case were brought from Model Town and other two from Shalimar Bagh to Chhatrasal Stadium and “they were beaten.” ALSO READ: Hockey India congratulates Narinder Batra on being elected as president of FIH “There is a one minute video clip where one accused Sushil and co-accused were beating other persons. The five persons were brought by the accused from Model Town and Shalimar Bagh… brought in different cars. He was originally given the job by GOI considering his ability in wrestling. He was officer in charge in Chhatrasal stadium,” the APP told the court. “We have to unearth the specific role of dozens of persons. He had taken the help of one gang who included a man of criminal antecedents. He (Sushil) had hidden somewhere in Punjab or Haryana. We have to take him there,” the APP told the court.

Wrestler murder case: Olympic medallist Sushil Kumar sent to 6-day police custody

The Indian women cricketers, part of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2020, are set to receive their prize money share from the USD 500,000 by the end of this week. A senior BCCI official on Sunday said the transactions have been processed and the players are expected to receive their share soon. <o:p></o:p>

The development comes after a report in The Telegraph highlighted that BCCI is yet to disburse the runner’s-up prize money of the Women’s T20 World Cup, which was held in February-March in 2020. India Women, led by Harmanpreet Kaur, lost to Australia in the summit clash in front of a capacity crowd at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. <o:p></o:p>

"The members of the Indian women's cricket team will be getting the share of their prize money by the end of this week. The transactions have been processed and I am expecting that they will receive their share very soon," the senior board functionary told PTI.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-women-cricketers-prize-money-from-2020-t20-world-cup-yet-to-be-paid-report-386895" hreflang="en">India women cricketers' prize money from 2020 T20 World Cup yet to be paid: Report</a><o:p></o:p>

Asked about the delay, he said: "We received the prize money amount late last year." The processing of players' payments in BCCI does take around three to four months for all teams (across age groups). <o:p></o:p>

The BCCI headquarters in Mumbai have remained shut due to the COVID-19 pandemic leading to delay in payments across all departments.<o:p></o:p>

"It's not just one payment for women. Whether it's the central contract of the men's team, international match fees, domestic fees of men and women, everything is taking a bit of time because of the prevailing situation," a former BCCI office-bearer, still associated with a state unit, said.

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He further informed: "Even before the COVID situation worsened, the domestic season would end in March and the complete payments were only cleared by September.<o:p></o:p>

"So, in this case you need to check when did BCCI receive the payments. If they received just after the tournament, then it's a delay but processing does take some time. And to the best of my knowledge, it's the same for both men and women."<o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from agencies)<o:p></o:p>

The Indian women cricketers, part of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2020, are set to receive their prize money share from the USD 500,000 by the end of this week.

The Indian women cricketers, part of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2020, are set to receive their prize money share from the USD 500,000 by the end of this week. A senior BCCI official on Sunday said the transactions have been processed and the players are expected to receive their share soon. The development comes after a report in The Telegraph highlighted that BCCI is yet to disburse the runner’s-up prize money of the Women’s T20 World Cup, which was held in February-March in 2020. India Women, led by Harmanpreet Kaur, lost to Australia in the summit clash in front of a capacity crowd at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. "The members of the Indian women's cricket team will be getting the share of their prize money by the end of this week. The transactions have been processed and I am expecting that they will receive their share very soon," the senior board functionary told PTI. ALSO READ: India women cricketers' prize money from 2020 T20 World Cup yet to be paid: Report Asked about the delay, he said: "We received the prize money amount late last year." The processing of players' payments in BCCI does take around three to four months for all teams (across age groups). The BCCI headquarters in Mumbai have remained shut due to the COVID-19 pandemic leading to delay in payments across all departments. "It's not just one payment for women. Whether it's the central contract of the men's team, international match fees, domestic fees of men and women, everything is taking a bit of time because of the prevailing situation," a former BCCI office-bearer, still associated with a state unit, said. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli isn't the highest-paid captain in international cricket! - Check full list of skippers and salaries in 2021 He further informed: "Even before the COVID situation worsened, the domestic season would end in March and the complete payments were only cleared by September. "So, in this case you need to check when did BCCI receive the payments. If they received just after the tournament, then it's a delay but processing does take some time. And to the best of my knowledge, it's the same for both men and women." (With inputs from agencies)

Indian women cricketers to receive T20 World Cup 2020 prize money this week

Manchester City have become the first club to win a hat-trick of Premier League titles in the same season and the three managers – Pep Guardiola, Enzo Maresca and Carlos Vicens – have been photographed together with their respective trophies.<o:p></o:p>

The first of Man City’s successes was confirmed in April when Maresca’s Elite Development Squad won the Club’s first-ever PL2 title. That was followed up three weeks later when Guardiola’s first team secured the Premier League title for the third time in four years. And on Saturday, Manchester City U18s were crowned 2020/21 U18 Premier League National champions as Vicens’ side sealed the prestigious title with a superb 3-1 victory over Fulham.<o:p></o:p>

It means Manchester City are the first Club to win U18 league titles (both regional and national), the Premier League 2 and the Premier League in the same season.

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Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City will lift the Premier League trophy on Sunday at the Etihad Stadium, where 10,000 fans will be present for the first time in 15 months. The occasion will also mark Sergio Aguero’s last appearance in Manchester City colours at the Etihad Stadium as the Argentine striker – club’s greatest goalscorer - ends a trophy-laden decade-long stay at the club.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-andrea-pirlo-says-his-juventus-future-does-not-depend-on-top-four-finish-386848" hreflang="en">Football: Andrea Pirlo says his Juventus future does not depend on top-four finish</a><o:p></o:p>

Man City’s first team will also eye their first-ever UEFA Champions League trophy next weekend when they take on Chelsea in the final in Porto. <o:p></o:p>

Manchester City have become the first club to win a hat-trick of Premier League titles in the same season and the three managers – Pep Guardiola, Enzo Maresca and Carlos Vicens – have been photographed together with their respective trophies.

Manchester City have become the first club to win a hat-trick of Premier League titles in the same season and the three managers – Pep Guardiola, Enzo Maresca and Carlos Vicens – have been photographed together with their respective trophies. The first of Man City’s successes was confirmed in April when Maresca’s Elite Development Squad won the Club’s first-ever PL2 title. That was followed up three weeks later when Guardiola’s first team secured the Premier League title for the third time in four years. And on Saturday, Manchester City U18s were crowned 2020/21 U18 Premier League National champions as Vicens’ side sealed the prestigious title with a superb 3-1 victory over Fulham. It means Manchester City are the first Club to win U18 league titles (both regional and national), the Premier League 2 and the Premier League in the same season. ALSO READ: 'Best moment of my life': Sergio Aguero recalls stoppage-time winner vs QPR as he ends decade-long stay at Man City Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City will lift the Premier League trophy on Sunday at the Etihad Stadium, where 10,000 fans will be present for the first time in 15 months. The occasion will also mark Sergio Aguero’s last appearance in Manchester City colours at the Etihad Stadium as the Argentine striker – club’s greatest goalscorer - ends a trophy-laden decade-long stay at the club. ALSO READ: Football: Andrea Pirlo says his Juventus future does not depend on top-four finish Man City’s first team will also eye their first-ever UEFA Champions League trophy next weekend when they take on Chelsea in the final in Porto.

Football: Manchester City win hat-trick of Premier League titles

Young Indian batsman Prithvi Shaw had a tremendous rise in international cricket as he smashed his maiden Test ton against the West Indies in his debut match for India in 2018. Shaw went on to suffer an ankle injury during the Australia tour and witnessed a dip in form. The youngster also tested positive for a banned substance and was handed an eight-month ban under anti-doping guidelines. <o:p></o:p>

Shaw opened up about the toughest phase of his career and how he dealt with the poor run of form while also highlighting how the cough syrup episode took place. <o:p></o:p>

“Till New Zealand tour I was in a happy space. Basically, I was feeling okay, and then I did decently in IPL too in 2020. 2018-19 Australia series was something I was really looking forward to. And then suddenly this ankle injury happened. The physios and team management were trying to keep me ready for the third Test, but the recovery progress stopped after a point. I was in a lot of pain, and was really sad. But these sort of things keep happening, and this is what the players and support staff tried to explain me,” Shaw told Cricbuzz.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-women-cricketers-prize-money-from-2020-t20-world-cup-yet-to-be-paid-report-386895" hreflang="en">India women cricketers' prize money from 2020 T20 World Cup yet to be paid: Report</a><o:p></o:p>

Shaw said that he and his father are responsible for the cough syrup fiasco as he accepted that he was wrong in not consulting the team physio before gulping down the cough syrup which his father brought from the market.<o:p></o:p>

“After I came back, I started my treatment, and played the IPL. But then this cough syrup controversy came up. I think dad and I are responsible for it. I remember we were playing the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy in Indore and I was down with cold and cough at that time. So I had gone out for dinner and was coughing a lot. So I spoke to my dad. He asked me to take the cough syrup available in market. What I did wrong was did not consult the physio, which was wrong on my part.<o:p></o:p>

“I took that syrup for two days, and on the third day I had my dope test. So that’s when I was detected positive for a banned substance. That was a really difficult phase for me, and can’t even express in words. I was worried about my image, and what would people think about me. That is when I went for London, to stay away from all this. There too, I didn’t step out of my room much.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/positive-sign-for-indian-cricket-salman-butt-lauds-wriddhiman-sahas-approach-on-rishabh-pant-386898" hreflang="en">'Positive sign for Indian cricket': Salman Butt lauds Wriddhiman Saha's approach on Rishabh Pant</a><o:p></o:p>

Shaw went on to make a comeback in 2021 after going through a tough patch. He emerged the highest run-scorer in the Vijay Hazare Trophy and was the second-highest run-scorer for Delhi Capitals in the postponed Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021.

Young Indian batsman Prithvi Shaw had a tremendous rise in international cricket as he smashed his maiden Test ton against the West Indies in his debut match for India in 2018.

Young Indian batsman Prithvi Shaw had a tremendous rise in international cricket as he smashed his maiden Test ton against the West Indies in his debut match for India in 2018. Shaw went on to suffer an ankle injury during the Australia tour and witnessed a dip in form. The youngster also tested positive for a banned substance and was handed an eight-month ban under anti-doping guidelines. Shaw opened up about the toughest phase of his career and how he dealt with the poor run of form while also highlighting how the cough syrup episode took place. “Till New Zealand tour I was in a happy space. Basically, I was feeling okay, and then I did decently in IPL too in 2020. 2018-19 Australia series was something I was really looking forward to. And then suddenly this ankle injury happened. The physios and team management were trying to keep me ready for the third Test, but the recovery progress stopped after a point. I was in a lot of pain, and was really sad. But these sort of things keep happening, and this is what the players and support staff tried to explain me,” Shaw told Cricbuzz. ALSO READ: India women cricketers' prize money from 2020 T20 World Cup yet to be paid: Report Shaw said that he and his father are responsible for the cough syrup fiasco as he accepted that he was wrong in not consulting the team physio before gulping down the cough syrup which his father brought from the market. “After I came back, I started my treatment, and played the IPL. But then this cough syrup controversy came up. I think dad and I are responsible for it. I remember we were playing the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy in Indore and I was down with cold and cough at that time. So I had gone out for dinner and was coughing a lot. So I spoke to my dad. He asked me to take the cough syrup available in market. What I did wrong was did not consult the physio, which was wrong on my part. “I took that syrup for two days, and on the third day I had my dope test. So that’s when I was detected positive for a banned substance. That was a really difficult phase for me, and can’t even express in words. I was worried about my image, and what would people think about me. That is when I went for London, to stay away from all this. There too, I didn’t step out of my room much.” ALSO READ: 'Positive sign for Indian cricket': Salman Butt lauds Wriddhiman Saha's approach on Rishabh Pant Shaw went on to make a comeback in 2021 after going through a tough patch. He emerged the highest run-scorer in the Vijay Hazare Trophy and was the second-highest run-scorer for Delhi Capitals in the postponed Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021.

Cricket: 'Dad and I responsible for it' - Prithvi Shaw opens up about the eight-month doping ban

Indian women’s cricketers have still not been paid the prize money from the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2020, where the Women in Blue, reached the final 14 months ago. Upon reaching the summit clash, where India Women lost to Australia in a capacity crowd of more than 86,000 at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground, the Indian women’s cricketers should have received a collective amount of $500,000 (£350,000).<o:p></o:p>

According to The Telegraph, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) holds the entire prize-money pot awarded to the Indian cricketers. The CEO of the Federation of International Cricketers’ Associations, Tom Moffat said that they were made aware of the issue in August 2020 and reached out to the International Cricket Council (ICC) and Indian players about the same. <o:p></o:p>

"Prize money is payable to players for their on-field performance in pinnacle events and the late non-payment of money owing to players is unacceptable," Moffat told Telegraph Sport.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-south-africa-unlikely-to-win-t20-world-cup-without-ab-de-villiers-reckons-aakash-chopra-386855" hreflang="en">Cricket: South Africa unlikely to win T20 World Cup without AB de Villiers, reckons Aakash Chopra</a><o:p></o:p>

"We encourage players in India to consider getting organised as part of a players’ association so they, and the game in India, can benefit from collective player representation in the same way that their fellow professionals around the world do."<o:p></o:p>

While the ICC is responsible for paying the prize money within a week of the tournament's end, the prize money is usually directed to the team’s governing bodies, unless the board asks the ICC to pay the players directly.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-its-like-going-full-circle-ajaz-patel-on-playing-the-final-against-india-386831" hreflang="en">WTC Final: 'It's like going full circle': Ajaz Patel on playing the final against India</a><o:p></o:p>

If the prize money is split evenly between 15 players in India’s World Cup squad, the Indian women’s cricketers would have bagged about $33,000 each. <o:p></o:p>

However, the BCCI still hasn’t reacted on the report and a reaction is awaited from their side.<o:p></o:p>

Indian women’s cricketers have still not been paid the prize money from the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2020, where the Women in Blue, reached the final 14 months ago.

Indian women’s cricketers have still not been paid the prize money from the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2020, where the Women in Blue, reached the final 14 months ago. Upon reaching the summit clash, where India Women lost to Australia in a capacity crowd of more than 86,000 at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground, the Indian women’s cricketers should have received a collective amount of $500,000 (£350,000). According to The Telegraph, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) holds the entire prize-money pot awarded to the Indian cricketers. The CEO of the Federation of International Cricketers’ Associations, Tom Moffat said that they were made aware of the issue in August 2020 and reached out to the International Cricket Council (ICC) and Indian players about the same. "Prize money is payable to players for their on-field performance in pinnacle events and the late non-payment of money owing to players is unacceptable," Moffat told Telegraph Sport. ALSO READ: Cricket: South Africa unlikely to win T20 World Cup without AB de Villiers, reckons Aakash Chopra "We encourage players in India to consider getting organised as part of a players’ association so they, and the game in India, can benefit from collective player representation in the same way that their fellow professionals around the world do." While the ICC is responsible for paying the prize money within a week of the tournament's end, the prize money is usually directed to the team’s governing bodies, unless the board asks the ICC to pay the players directly. ALSO READ: WTC Final: 'It's like going full circle': Ajaz Patel on playing the final against India If the prize money is split evenly between 15 players in India’s World Cup squad, the Indian women’s cricketers would have bagged about $33,000 each. However, the BCCI still hasn’t reacted on the report and a reaction is awaited from their side.

India women cricketers' prize money from 2020 T20 World Cup yet to be paid: Report

Hockey India on Saturday congratulated Narinder Dhruv Batra who created yet another historic milestone for Indian sport. He became the first Indian to be elected as president of the International Hockey Federation (FIH) for the second consecutive term at the 47th FIH Congress on Saturday. His victory was basis a largely unanimous decision, Batra secured 63 votes out of 124 to edge past tough opponent in Belgium’s Marc Coudron, the only other candidate for the FIH Presidency at the Congress.

In 2016, Batra who was then an Executive Board Member of FIH as well as the vice-president of the Asian Hockey Federation, became the first Indian to head a global sports governing body when he replaced outgoing FIH President Leandro Negre, for a four-year term. With him being re-elected for the top post, Batra will continue to serve as president of FIH till 2024.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Batra, under his leadership in the first term prioritised the growth of hockey globally also achieved key milestones such as the implementation of the FIH’s global home-and-away league – The FIH Hockey Pro League, launched the FIH Nations Cup, and implemented the FIH Hockey 5s World Cup and Hockey 5s World Tour.

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With over two decades of experience in sports administration, Batra led FIH with professional administrative acumen that delivered efficient governance and also created a transparent system.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In his second term, Batra in his election manifesto committed to continue to work towards increasing the number of hockey playing nations as well as the visibility of hockey. Enhancing financial sustainability, to innovate, and improve the Olympic status of the sport and harmonise the international calendar of events are some of his key agendas paving forward. Batra also endeavours to make hockey more inclusive and use hockey as a catalyst to bring about a positive social change.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In his address through a virtual conference during the FIH Congress, Batra said: “My no. 1 priority is to grow the sport globally and to do that we need to constantly evolve with new formats and events. Provide the right kind of training and infrastructure to create a holistic ecosystem that is sustainable. And while we develop and grow our hockey universe it is also essential to increase our visibility and reach. We need to keep up with an extremely dynamic landscape of mediums to reach and engage better with our fans. And equally so reach new audiences we have found in countries across the American and African sub-continents, among others.”

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As to the challenges he looks to tackle in his second term as president, Batra said, “We need to enhance our financial stability. A well-developed revenue model from media rights holders and commercial partners is the key to achieve sustainable financial growth. I have seen keen interest in further engagement from Indian commercial partners which I will continue to work with closely to channelise into global events and development initiatives.”

Congratulating Batra on this historic feat, Hockey India President Gyanendro Ningombam said, “Dr Narinder Dhruv Batra in his first term led the hockey fraternity into a new era with innovative formats and tournaments that would further enhance the popularity of the sport particularly among the younger generation. He is a man on a mission to globalise hockey and we congratulate him and wish him the very best as he endeavours to achieve new milestones as President of FIH in his second consecutive term. It is a proud moment for India. We will continue to seek his guidance and learn from his experience to further develop the sport in India.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hockey India on Saturday congratulated Narinder Dhruv Batra who created yet another historic milestone for Indian sport. He became the first Indian to be elected as president of the International Hockey Federation (FIH) for the second consecutive term at the 47th FIH Congress on Saturday.

Hockey India on Saturday congratulated Narinder Dhruv Batra who created yet another historic milestone for Indian sport. He became the first Indian to be elected as president of the International Hockey Federation (FIH) for the second consecutive term at the 47th FIH Congress on Saturday. His victory was basis a largely unanimous decision, Batra secured 63 votes out of 124 to edge past tough opponent in Belgium’s Marc Coudron, the only other candidate for the FIH Presidency at the Congress. In 2016, Batra who was then an Executive Board Member of FIH as well as the vice-president of the Asian Hockey Federation, became the first Indian to head a global sports governing body when he replaced outgoing FIH President Leandro Negre, for a four-year term. With him being re-elected for the top post, Batra will continue to serve as president of FIH till 2024. Batra, under his leadership in the first term prioritised the growth of hockey globally also achieved key milestones such as the implementation of the FIH’s global home-and-away league – The FIH Hockey Pro League, launched the FIH Nations Cup, and implemented the FIH Hockey 5s World Cup and Hockey 5s World Tour. ALSO READ: Olympics: Sun Yang's career on the line at appeal hearing With over two decades of experience in sports administration, Batra led FIH with professional administrative acumen that delivered efficient governance and also created a transparent system. In his second term, Batra in his election manifesto committed to continue to work towards increasing the number of hockey playing nations as well as the visibility of hockey. Enhancing financial sustainability, to innovate, and improve the Olympic status of the sport and harmonise the international calendar of events are some of his key agendas paving forward. Batra also endeavours to make hockey more inclusive and use hockey as a catalyst to bring about a positive social change. In his address through a virtual conference during the FIH Congress, Batra said: “My no. 1 priority is to grow the sport globally and to do that we need to constantly evolve with new formats and events. Provide the right kind of training and infrastructure to create a holistic ecosystem that is sustainable. And while we develop and grow our hockey universe it is also essential to increase our visibility and reach. We need to keep up with an extremely dynamic landscape of mediums to reach and engage better with our fans. And equally so reach new audiences we have found in countries across the American and African sub-continents, among others.” ALSO READ: Olympic medalist Sushil Kumar arrested in wrestler murder case: Reports As to the challenges he looks to tackle in his second term as president, Batra said, “We need to enhance our financial stability. A well-developed revenue model from media rights holders and commercial partners is the key to achieve sustainable financial growth. I have seen keen interest in further engagement from Indian commercial partners which I will continue to work with closely to channelise into global events and development initiatives.” Congratulating Batra on this historic feat, Hockey India President Gyanendro Ningombam said, “Dr Narinder Dhruv Batra in his first term led the hockey fraternity into a new era with innovative formats and tournaments that would further enhance the popularity of the sport particularly among the younger generation. He is a man on a mission to globalise hockey and we congratulate him and wish him the very best as he endeavours to achieve new milestones as President of FIH in his second consecutive term. It is a proud moment for India. We will continue to seek his guidance and learn from his experience to further develop the sport in India.”

Hockey India congratulates Narinder Batra on being elected as president of FIH

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