Leicester City lifted the FA Cup by defeating Chelsea 1-0 at the iconic Wembley Stadium on Saturday. As Leicester City players passionately celebrated their historic win, owner Khun Top joined in the celebrations on the pitch as he embraced the players and coaching staff after the monumental achievement.&nbsp;

The cameras often focused on Khun Top during the course of the FA Cup final as the Leicester City owner continues to attend matches of his club. Notably, Khun Top took over the&nbsp;reigns&nbsp;of Leicester City following the tragic death of his father in a helicopter crash outside the stadium.&nbsp;

Khun fist pumped the players, and joined in the team huddle after taking a moment to remember his father – Khun Vichai.&nbsp;

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Leicester City are such a beautiful club 💙 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CHELEI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CHELEI</a> <a href="https://t.co/WxxnRgfhmr">pic.twitter.com/WxxnRgfhmr</a>
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One of the Wembley stands had carried a huge banner of the later owner while Leicester City manager Brendan Rodgers explained how the team was playing in&nbsp;Vichai’s&nbsp;memory and wanted to make him proud by lifting another trophy.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/what-dreams-are-made-of-schmeichel-hails-leicester-history-makers-385377" hreflang="en">'What dreams are made of': Schmeichel hails Leicester history makers</a>

Khun Top was also seen hugging goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel and was in the team huddle when Jamie Vardy announced his own ‘party’ as the club won its first-ever FA Cup in 137 years.&nbsp;

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Youri&nbsp;Teilemans&nbsp;scored an absolute screamer from 30 yards to hand Leicester City a 1-0 lead, which ended up as the match-winning goal as well.&nbsp;

As Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand said on BT Sport, while Khun Top hugged Rodgers like a brother: “In a time where the relationships between owners, players and fans are so fractured, to see what we’re seeing here is so refreshing.&nbsp;

“I don’t think there is a club more connected from top to bottom as what we see with this club.”&nbsp;

“There will be some big clubs out there, and some I played for who will be jealous and envious of these owners,” added former Chelsea and Liverpool midfielder Joe Cole.&nbsp;

“You can be absent owners, but this is what you want, this is what football is about, the collaboration between everyone at the club.&nbsp;

Leicester City lifted the FA Cup by defeating Chelsea 1-0 at the iconic Wembley Stadium on Saturday. As Leicester City players passionately celebrated their historic win, owner Khun Top joined in the celebrations on the pitch as he embraced the players and coaching staff after the monumental achievement.

Leicester City lifted the FA Cup by defeating Chelsea 1-0 at the iconic Wembley Stadium on Saturday. As Leicester City players passionately celebrated their historic win, owner Khun Top joined in the celebrations on the pitch as he embraced the players and coaching staff after the monumental achievement. The cameras often focused on Khun Top during the course of the FA Cup final as the Leicester City owner continues to attend matches of his club. Notably, Khun Top took over the reigns of Leicester City following the tragic death of his father in a helicopter crash outside the stadium. Khun fist pumped the players, and joined in the team huddle after taking a moment to remember his father – Khun Vichai. Leicester City are such a beautiful club 💙 #CHELEI pic.twitter.com/WxxnRgfhmr — RouteOneFootball (@Route1futbol) May 15, 2021 × One of the Wembley stands had carried a huge banner of the later owner while Leicester City manager Brendan Rodgers explained how the team was playing in Vichai’s memory and wanted to make him proud by lifting another trophy. ALSO READ: 'What dreams are made of': Schmeichel hails Leicester history makers Khun Top was also seen hugging goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel and was in the team huddle when Jamie Vardy announced his own ‘party’ as the club won its first-ever FA Cup in 137 years. This is absolutely brilliant to watch. Leicester City’s culture is brilliant. 👍🏻🤝 pic.twitter.com/QYFYU184L4 — FutbolBible (@FutbolBible) May 15, 2021 × Youri Teilemans scored an absolute screamer from 30 yards to hand Leicester City a 1-0 lead, which ended up as the match-winning goal as well. As Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand said on BT Sport, while Khun Top hugged Rodgers like a brother: “In a time where the relationships between owners, players and fans are so fractured, to see what we’re seeing here is so refreshing. “I don’t think there is a club more connected from top to bottom as what we see with this club.” “There will be some big clubs out there, and some I played for who will be jealous and envious of these owners,” added former Chelsea and Liverpool midfielder Joe Cole. “You can be absent owners, but this is what you want, this is what football is about, the collaboration between everyone at the club.

Leicester City owner win hearts with passionate celebrations with players, staff - Watch

Robert Lewandowski, dubbed a "machine" by his wife, has added the Bundesliga record for most goals in a season to the long list of major honours and achievements he has claimed in his illustrious career.

Gerd Mueller's mark of 40 goals in a campaign, set in the 1971/72 season, had withstood the test of time until Lewandowski converted a first-half penalty for Bayern Munich at Freiburg on Saturday.

While Mueller set his record over 34 league games, Lewandowski has scored his 40 goals in 28 matches, due to a knee injury last month and squad rotation.

Lewandowski has scored five Bundesliga hat-tricks this term, including a four-goal haul in a 4-3 win over Hertha Berlin in October.

"I have to be honest, I am astonished. I thought Mueller's record would last for forever," Bayern chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge said last weekend, after Lewandowski's treble against Borussia Moenchengladbach.

With 276 goals in 349 games for Bayern and Borussia Dortmund, Lewandowski is already the second-most successful striker in Bundesliga history after Mueller, who scored 365 in 427 matches.

Lewandowski was crowned FIFA's best male player last December, edging out superstars Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.

Lewandowski's 55 goals in all competitions in 2019/20 were key to Bayern winning the treble, as the Poland striker was the first player to be top-scorer in the Champions League, Bundesliga and German Cup competitions in a single season.

He was recognised by FIFA after proving himself in the knock-out stage of the Champions League last term.

But Lewandowski was sidelined by a knee injury for Bayern's quarter-final exit to Paris Saint-Germain last month, as the French giants avenged their 2020 final defeat in Lisbon.

He is set to be the Bundesliga's top-scorer the sixth time in eight seasons, but Lewandowski was yet to inspire Bayern to European glory until last year.

His four goals for Borussia Dortmund in the 2013 semi-final first leg against Real Madrid helped his former club into the final, but they were beaten by Bayern at Wembley.

In Lewandowski's first five years at the Bavarian giants, Bayern failed to reach the showpiece match.

But he was crucial to Bayern's run last term.

He scored and set up Serge Gnabry's two goals in Bayern's 3-0 last-16 first-leg win at Chelsea.

When the return leg was played nearly six months later, Lewandowski had a hand in all four goals -- scoring twice and creating two more -- in the 4-1 win at the Allianz Arena.

He followed that up by scoring in the historic 8-2 quarter-final rout of Messi's Barcelona and netted again in the 3-0 semi-final win over Lyon.

He finished as the tournament's top-scorer with 15 goals, two short of Ronaldo's record for a single season.

His five Champions League goals this term saw him pass Real Madrid legend Raul to leave him on 73 Champions League goals, short of only Messi, on 120, and Ronaldo, who has scored 134 times.

<h2>- From raw talent to superstar -</h2>

Lewandowski was spotted as a raw 21-year-old playing for Polish club Lech Poznan, where he scored 41 goals in 82 games, and joined Dortmund in 2010.

He made his breakthrough under Jurgen Klopp, helping Dortmund win back-to-back Bundesliga titles in 2010/11 and 2011/12.

He scored a hat-trick in a 5-2 drubbing of Bayern in the 2012 German Cup final, but left for Dortmund's rivals two years later, having scored 103 goals for the club.

Lewandowski has now scored 293 times in 328 games for Bayern in all competitions.

He is known for his disciplined approach to nutrition and training, resulting in his honed physique.

"My husband is a machine," said wife Anna, a former Polish karate international who serves as his personal trainer.

Lewandowski is rarely injured and former Bayern captain Oliver Kahn sees him as "an absolute model of professionalism, a condition for staying at the highest level for a very long time".

Robert Lewandowski, dubbed a "machine" by his wife, has added the Bundesliga record for most goals in a season to the long list of major honours and achievements he has claimed in his illustrious career.

Robert Lewandowski, dubbed a "machine" by his wife, has added the Bundesliga record for most goals in a season to the long list of major honours and achievements he has claimed in his illustrious career. Gerd Mueller's mark of 40 goals in a campaign, set in the 1971/72 season, had withstood the test of time until Lewandowski converted a first-half penalty for Bayern Munich at Freiburg on Saturday. While Mueller set his record over 34 league games, Lewandowski has scored his 40 goals in 28 matches, due to a knee injury last month and squad rotation. Lewandowski has scored five Bundesliga hat-tricks this term, including a four-goal haul in a 4-3 win over Hertha Berlin in October. "I have to be honest, I am astonished. I thought Mueller's record would last for forever," Bayern chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge said last weekend, after Lewandowski's treble against Borussia Moenchengladbach. With 276 goals in 349 games for Bayern and Borussia Dortmund, Lewandowski is already the second-most successful striker in Bundesliga history after Mueller, who scored 365 in 427 matches. Lewandowski was crowned FIFA's best male player last December, edging out superstars Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. Lewandowski's 55 goals in all competitions in 2019/20 were key to Bayern winning the treble, as the Poland striker was the first player to be top-scorer in the Champions League, Bundesliga and German Cup competitions in a single season. He was recognised by FIFA after proving himself in the knock-out stage of the Champions League last term. But Lewandowski was sidelined by a knee injury for Bayern's quarter-final exit to Paris Saint-Germain last month, as the French giants avenged their 2020 final defeat in Lisbon. He is set to be the Bundesliga's top-scorer the sixth time in eight seasons, but Lewandowski was yet to inspire Bayern to European glory until last year. His four goals for Borussia Dortmund in the 2013 semi-final first leg against Real Madrid helped his former club into the final, but they were beaten by Bayern at Wembley. In Lewandowski's first five years at the Bavarian giants, Bayern failed to reach the showpiece match. But he was crucial to Bayern's run last term. He scored and set up Serge Gnabry's two goals in Bayern's 3-0 last-16 first-leg win at Chelsea. When the return leg was played nearly six months later, Lewandowski had a hand in all four goals -- scoring twice and creating two more -- in the 4-1 win at the Allianz Arena. He followed that up by scoring in the historic 8-2 quarter-final rout of Messi's Barcelona and netted again in the 3-0 semi-final win over Lyon. He finished as the tournament's top-scorer with 15 goals, two short of Ronaldo's record for a single season. His five Champions League goals this term saw him pass Real Madrid legend Raul to leave him on 73 Champions League goals, short of only Messi, on 120, and Ronaldo, who has scored 134 times. - From raw talent to superstar - Lewandowski was spotted as a raw 21-year-old playing for Polish club Lech Poznan, where he scored 41 goals in 82 games, and joined Dortmund in 2010. He made his breakthrough under Jurgen Klopp, helping Dortmund win back-to-back Bundesliga titles in 2010/11 and 2011/12. He scored a hat-trick in a 5-2 drubbing of Bayern in the 2012 German Cup final, but left for Dortmund's rivals two years later, having scored 103 goals for the club. Lewandowski has now scored 293 times in 328 games for Bayern in all competitions. He is known for his disciplined approach to nutrition and training, resulting in his honed physique. "My husband is a machine," said wife Anna, a former Polish karate international who serves as his personal trainer. Lewandowski is rarely injured and former Bayern captain Oliver Kahn sees him as "an absolute model of professionalism, a condition for staying at the highest level for a very long time".

'Machine' Lewandowski adds new record to impressive list of achievements

Kasper Schmeichel described leading Leicester to the club's first ever FA Cup as a dream come true after he played a huge role in beating Chelsea 1-0 on Saturday.

Youri Tielemans's stunning strike just after the hour mark separated the sides in front of the largest sports attendance in England since the coronavirus pandemic hit, with 22,000 fans at Wembley.

But Schmeichel had to rescue his side late on with brilliant saves from Ben Chilwell and Mason Mount.

"I've dreamt about this since I was child," said Schmeichel, whose father Peter Schmeichel won three FA Cups with Manchester United.

"We have talked about wanting to win trophies. The performance today, the grit and determination, I'm so proud of everybody, everybody contributed to get to the final. Everyone has played and been sensational."

Even when Schmeichel was eventually beaten, Chilwell's late equaliser against his former club was ruled out for offside after a VAR review.

"Thank you VAR! What an amazing technology," said Tielemans.

"What a moment, I'm really happy. I can't think of a better goal than this. I've scored a few but it was a really nice goal to score in the final of the FA Cup."

Leicester manager Brendan Rodgers dedicated the victory to the club's chairman Aiyawatt 'Top' Srivaddhanaprabha.

"It is an amazing feeling. I was not aware before I came into Leicester that they had never won the FA Cup, they had lost in four finals previously," Rodgers said.

"To be able to give that to the supporters, to Top and his family, it is such a special occasion.

"It was a monumental performance, and what a day for everyone involved with Leicester."

Celebrating his first major trophy in England football after his successful spell at Celtic, Rodgers added: "It's the FA Cup so it's truly special. It means so much to us, so proud, but happier for everyone else.

"The success of this team and club is getting to positions like this and competing, the so-called bigger clubs are expected to win.

"But our success is competing and, if we can perform like today, we can go and win."

Kasper Schmeichel described leading Leicester to the club's first ever FA Cup as a dream come true after he played a huge role in beating Chelsea 1-0 on Saturday.

Kasper Schmeichel described leading Leicester to the club's first ever FA Cup as a dream come true after he played a huge role in beating Chelsea 1-0 on Saturday. Youri Tielemans's stunning strike just after the hour mark separated the sides in front of the largest sports attendance in England since the coronavirus pandemic hit, with 22,000 fans at Wembley. But Schmeichel had to rescue his side late on with brilliant saves from Ben Chilwell and Mason Mount. "I've dreamt about this since I was child," said Schmeichel, whose father Peter Schmeichel won three FA Cups with Manchester United. "We have talked about wanting to win trophies. The performance today, the grit and determination, I'm so proud of everybody, everybody contributed to get to the final. Everyone has played and been sensational." Even when Schmeichel was eventually beaten, Chilwell's late equaliser against his former club was ruled out for offside after a VAR review. "Thank you VAR! What an amazing technology," said Tielemans. "What a moment, I'm really happy. I can't think of a better goal than this. I've scored a few but it was a really nice goal to score in the final of the FA Cup." Leicester manager Brendan Rodgers dedicated the victory to the club's chairman Aiyawatt 'Top' Srivaddhanaprabha. "It is an amazing feeling. I was not aware before I came into Leicester that they had never won the FA Cup, they had lost in four finals previously," Rodgers said. "To be able to give that to the supporters, to Top and his family, it is such a special occasion. "It was a monumental performance, and what a day for everyone involved with Leicester." Celebrating his first major trophy in England football after his successful spell at Celtic, Rodgers added: "It's the FA Cup so it's truly special. It means so much to us, so proud, but happier for everyone else. "The success of this team and club is getting to positions like this and competing, the so-called bigger clubs are expected to win. "But our success is competing and, if we can perform like today, we can go and win."

'What dreams are made of': Schmeichel hails Leicester history makers

World number one Novak Djokovic on Saturday battled past Italian Lorenzo Sonego to set up a clash with nine-time winner Rafael Nadal for the sixth time in the Italian Open final.

Defending champion Djokovic won through 6-3, 6-7 (5/7), 6-2 in 2hr 44min against the 33rd-ranked Italian after second seed Nadal earlier swept past American Reilly Opelka 6-4, 6-4.

Djokovic had earlier survived a three-set battle with Greece's Stefanos Tsitsipas in their rain-delayed quarter-finals.

The five-time Rome winner had been trailing 6-4, 2-1 when the tie was halted overnight.

But he came back to win through 4-6, 7-5, 7-5 after 3hr 16min.

Djokovic and Nadal, who will be facing each other for the 57th time, last played in the 2020 French Open final which the Spaniard won.

The pair have won 14 of the last 16 Rome titles between them while Nadal leads their head-to-head in finals in the Italian capital 3-2.

Djokovic had two match points in the 12th game of the second set of his semi-final before Sonego forced a third set to the delight of the home crowd in the Foro Italico.

The Serb saved three break points in the first game of the third set, coming back from 0-40 before powering towards his 11th Rome final

"I think I bounced back very well after the second set and 0-40, maybe if he started with a break up in the third it would be different," said Djokovic.

"I've only myself to blame for not closing the match in the second set, I could have and should have.

"First of all I need to recover. I don't have much time but hopefully I'll have fresh legs necessary to have against Rafa."

Djokovic and Nadal have won 14 of the last 16 Rome titles between them with Djokovic leading their overall head-to-head 29-27.

Nadal is looking to equal Djokovic's record of 36 ATP Masters 1000 titles in his 12th Rome final.&nbsp;

World number one Novak Djokovic on Saturday battled past Italian Lorenzo Sonego to set up a clash with nine-time winner Rafael Nadal for the sixth time in the Italian Open final.

World number one Novak Djokovic on Saturday battled past Italian Lorenzo Sonego to set up a clash with nine-time winner Rafael Nadal for the sixth time in the Italian Open final. Defending champion Djokovic won through 6-3, 6-7 (5/7), 6-2 in 2hr 44min against the 33rd-ranked Italian after second seed Nadal earlier swept past American Reilly Opelka 6-4, 6-4. Djokovic had earlier survived a three-set battle with Greece's Stefanos Tsitsipas in their rain-delayed quarter-finals. The five-time Rome winner had been trailing 6-4, 2-1 when the tie was halted overnight. But he came back to win through 4-6, 7-5, 7-5 after 3hr 16min. Djokovic and Nadal, who will be facing each other for the 57th time, last played in the 2020 French Open final which the Spaniard won. The pair have won 14 of the last 16 Rome titles between them while Nadal leads their head-to-head in finals in the Italian capital 3-2. Djokovic had two match points in the 12th game of the second set of his semi-final before Sonego forced a third set to the delight of the home crowd in the Foro Italico. The Serb saved three break points in the first game of the third set, coming back from 0-40 before powering towards his 11th Rome final "I think I bounced back very well after the second set and 0-40, maybe if he started with a break up in the third it would be different," said Djokovic. "I've only myself to blame for not closing the match in the second set, I could have and should have. "First of all I need to recover. I don't have much time but hopefully I'll have fresh legs necessary to have against Rafa." Djokovic and Nadal have won 14 of the last 16 Rome titles between them with Djokovic leading their overall head-to-head 29-27. Nadal is looking to equal Djokovic's record of 36 ATP Masters 1000 titles in his 12th Rome final.

Djokovic and Nadal set-up sixth Italian Open final duel and 57th career clash

ICC World Test Championship finalists India and New Zealand remain the top two teams in the ICC Men’s Test Team Rankings after the annual update carried out on Thursday. With the latest update, India end&nbsp;as the number 1 Test side in the annual ranking for the 5th consecutive year: 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2021.

India have gained one rating point for an aggregate of 121 and New Zealand are only one point behind after gaining two points in Thursday’s update, which eliminates results from 2017-18.

India’s 2-1 win over Australia and 3-1 win over England over the past year and New Zealand’s 2-0 series wins over the West Indies and Pakistan have helped them keep ahead of the pack.

The latest update, which rates all matches played since May 2020 at 100 per cent and those of the previous two years at 50 per cent, sees England overtake Australia to third position as England’s 4-0 defeat to Australia in 2017-18 has dropped from the rankings.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rahul-dravid-picked-australian-brains-to-build-indias-solid-domestic-structure-greg-chappell-384565" hreflang="en">Rahul Dravid picked 'Australian brains' to build India's solid domestic structure: Greg Chappell</a>

Pakistan have gained three points but remain in fifth position while the West Indies, who beat Bangladesh 2-0 and drew 0-0 with Sri Lanka in series played this year, have moved from eighth to sixth, their best position since 2013.

South Africa are in seventh position, equaling their lowest in Test ranking history, while Sri Lanka are next on the list. Bangladesh have lost five points but remain in ninth position while Zimbabwe have gained eight points but are still nine points behind Bangladesh.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/look-at-ishan-suryakumar-and-krunal-mohammad-amir-hits-out-at-pcb-selectors-384559" hreflang="en">'Look at Ishan, Suryakumar and Krunal': Mohammad Amir hits out at PCB selectors</a>

<h2>ICC Test Team Rankings (as of May 13, 2021, following the annual update):</h2>

Rank &nbsp; &nbsp;Team &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Points

1 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;India &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 121 (+1)

2 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;New Zealand &nbsp; &nbsp; 120 (+2)

3 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;England &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 109 (+3) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

4 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Australia &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 108 (-5)

5 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Pakistan &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 94 (+3)

6 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;West Indies &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 84 (+3)

7 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;South Africa &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 80 (-9)

8 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Sri Lanka &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 78 (-5)

9 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Bangladesh &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 46 (-5)

10 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Zimbabwe &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;35 (+8)

ICC World Test Championship finalists India and New Zealand remain the top two teams in the ICC Men’s Test Team Rankings after the annual update carried out on Thursday.

ICC World Test Championship finalists India and New Zealand remain the top two teams in the ICC Men’s Test Team Rankings after the annual update carried out on Thursday. With the latest update, India end as the number 1 Test side in the annual ranking for the 5th consecutive year: 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2021. India have gained one rating point for an aggregate of 121 and New Zealand are only one point behind after gaining two points in Thursday’s update, which eliminates results from 2017-18. India’s 2-1 win over Australia and 3-1 win over England over the past year and New Zealand’s 2-0 series wins over the West Indies and Pakistan have helped them keep ahead of the pack. The latest update, which rates all matches played since May 2020 at 100 per cent and those of the previous two years at 50 per cent, sees England overtake Australia to third position as England’s 4-0 defeat to Australia in 2017-18 has dropped from the rankings. ALSO READ: Rahul Dravid picked 'Australian brains' to build India's solid domestic structure: Greg Chappell Pakistan have gained three points but remain in fifth position while the West Indies, who beat Bangladesh 2-0 and drew 0-0 with Sri Lanka in series played this year, have moved from eighth to sixth, their best position since 2013. South Africa are in seventh position, equaling their lowest in Test ranking history, while Sri Lanka are next on the list. Bangladesh have lost five points but remain in ninth position while Zimbabwe have gained eight points but are still nine points behind Bangladesh. ALSO READ: 'Look at Ishan, Suryakumar and Krunal': Mohammad Amir hits out at PCB selectors ICC Test Team Rankings (as of May 13, 2021, following the annual update): Rank Team Points 1 India 121 (+1) 2 New Zealand 120 (+2) 3 England 109 (+3) 4 Australia 108 (-5) 5 Pakistan 94 (+3) 6 West Indies 84 (+3) 7 South Africa 80 (-9) 8 Sri Lanka 78 (-5) 9 Bangladesh 46 (-5) 10 Zimbabwe 35 (+8)

Domination continues! India remain atop of ICC Men’s Test team rankings

Atletico Madrid held their nerve to beat Real Sociedad 2-1 on Wednesday and move within touching distance of winning La Liga.&nbsp;

Yannick Carrasco and Angel Correa made a dominant first half count for Atletico, who retreated in the second and were left hanging on after Igor Zubeldia blasted in for La Real with seven minutes left.&nbsp;

When the final whistle blew, Diego Simeone jogged up the tunnel at the Wanda Metropolitano, punching the air as he went, fully aware how important this result could prove.&nbsp;

"We were excellent in the first half but the suffering was unnecessary when we had so many chances," Simeone said.

Outside, Atleti fans had gathered to cheer and sing throughout a nervy contest and when victory was confirmed, fireworks filled the sky.&nbsp;

"We thank all those who are outside tonight and all those who can't come because of everything that is happening," said Atletico captain Koke. "We could hear them outside when we needed them in the last 10 minutes."

Victory puts Atletico four points clear of Barcelona in the table and five ahead of Real Madrid, with Zinedine Zidane's side playing their game in hand away at Granada on Thursday.&nbsp;

It also raises the possibility of Atletico winning the title in the penultimate round on Sunday when they play at home to Osasuna.&nbsp;

Another victory this weekend would knock Barca out of the race regardless of what the Catalans do against Celta Vigo while Real Madrid would also concede if they had not taken six points from Granada and Sunday's trip to Athletic Bilbao.&nbsp;

Sevilla, in fourth, had earlier edged past Valencia 1-0 but they can no longer overtake Atleti, given their six-point deficit and a losing head-to-head record with the leaders.&nbsp;

Youssef En-Nesyri scored his 26th goal of the season at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan.

The four-horse race is reduced to three and after weeks of various twists and turns, Atletico suddenly appear to have a route to the trophy.&nbsp;

In terms of the table at least, this game against fifth-placed Real Sociedad was their toughest remaining fixture, although Real Valladolid could well be fighting for survival on the final day.&nbsp;

After Granada and Athletic Bilbao, Real Madrid finish against Villarreal, who will have the Europa League final three days later. Barcelona face Celta before ending away at Eibar, who could also be battling relegation.&nbsp;

Atletico were brilliant for the first half an hour and could have scored two or three times in the first 10 minutes, Luis Suarez blasting over and Marcos Llorente spurning a chance when sent clear.&nbsp;

Carrasco showed more precision when Llorente curled in a superb cross to the back post, the winger controlling with the outside of his right foot and poking in the opener.&nbsp;

Suarez teed up the second, bustling through midfield and slipping in Correa, who drove the ball inside the far corner to put Atletico in charge.&nbsp;

But they failed to add a third in the second half, Suarez and Carrasco both guilty of wasting chances, and Real Sociedad were revived in the final 30 minutes.&nbsp;

Portu drew an excellent save from Jan Oblak and then struck the post before finally, Zubeldia smashed in when a corner landed at his feet, six yards out. Atletico survived a nail-biting finish.

Atletico Madrid held their nerve to beat Real Sociedad 2-1 on Wednesday and move within touching distance of winning La Liga. Yannick Carrasco and Angel Correa made a dominant first half count for Atletico, who retreated in the second and were left hanging on after Igor Zubeldia blasted in for La Real with seven minutes left.

Atletico Madrid held their nerve to beat Real Sociedad 2-1 on Wednesday and move within touching distance of winning La Liga. Yannick Carrasco and Angel Correa made a dominant first half count for Atletico, who retreated in the second and were left hanging on after Igor Zubeldia blasted in for La Real with seven minutes left. When the final whistle blew, Diego Simeone jogged up the tunnel at the Wanda Metropolitano, punching the air as he went, fully aware how important this result could prove. "We were excellent in the first half but the suffering was unnecessary when we had so many chances," Simeone said. Outside, Atleti fans had gathered to cheer and sing throughout a nervy contest and when victory was confirmed, fireworks filled the sky. "We thank all those who are outside tonight and all those who can't come because of everything that is happening," said Atletico captain Koke. "We could hear them outside when we needed them in the last 10 minutes." Victory puts Atletico four points clear of Barcelona in the table and five ahead of Real Madrid, with Zinedine Zidane's side playing their game in hand away at Granada on Thursday. It also raises the possibility of Atletico winning the title in the penultimate round on Sunday when they play at home to Osasuna. Another victory this weekend would knock Barca out of the race regardless of what the Catalans do against Celta Vigo while Real Madrid would also concede if they had not taken six points from Granada and Sunday's trip to Athletic Bilbao. Sevilla, in fourth, had earlier edged past Valencia 1-0 but they can no longer overtake Atleti, given their six-point deficit and a losing head-to-head record with the leaders. Youssef En-Nesyri scored his 26th goal of the season at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan. The four-horse race is reduced to three and after weeks of various twists and turns, Atletico suddenly appear to have a route to the trophy. In terms of the table at least, this game against fifth-placed Real Sociedad was their toughest remaining fixture, although Real Valladolid could well be fighting for survival on the final day. After Granada and Athletic Bilbao, Real Madrid finish against Villarreal, who will have the Europa League final three days later. Barcelona face Celta before ending away at Eibar, who could also be battling relegation. Atletico were brilliant for the first half an hour and could have scored two or three times in the first 10 minutes, Luis Suarez blasting over and Marcos Llorente spurning a chance when sent clear. Carrasco showed more precision when Llorente curled in a superb cross to the back post, the winger controlling with the outside of his right foot and poking in the opener. Suarez teed up the second, bustling through midfield and slipping in Correa, who drove the ball inside the far corner to put Atletico in charge. But they failed to add a third in the second half, Suarez and Carrasco both guilty of wasting chances, and Real Sociedad were revived in the final 30 minutes. Portu drew an excellent save from Jan Oblak and then struck the post before finally, Zubeldia smashed in when a corner landed at his feet, six yards out. Atletico survived a nail-biting finish.

Atletico edge closer to La Liga title after Real Sociedad win

Rafael Nadal opened his attempt to win a 10th Italian Open title on Wednesday with a straight sets victory over teenager Jannik Sinner to advance to the third round.

The 20-time Grand Slam winner won through 7-5, 6-4 in two-hours 10-minutes to bring his record to 16-1 in his opening matches in the Foro Italico.

His 18th-ranked Italian opponent had dug deep to try and pull off an upset, saving six set points in the first set in which he had been twice a break up.

Sinner was again a break up in the second before Nadal powered back for 4-4 seeing off the 19-year-old on his fourth match point.

"After Madrid it was important to start with a positive feeling," said Nadal, who was beaten in the last eight at both previous Masters events, in Monte Carlo and Madrid.&nbsp;

"Today was a tough match. I think I did a lot of things well. I made mistakes too but combined these with positive things too."

Nadal, 34, next plays Canadian Denis Shapovalov, the 13th seed, for a place in the quarter-final.

Top seed Novak Djokovic and second seed Nadal have accounted for 14 of the past 16 titles at Foro Italico.

"It's a lesson that's tough to accept," said Sinner, who also lost to Nadal in the quarter-final Roland Garros last year.

The teenager had been hoping to benefit from the presence of the home crowd in later rounds with a 25 percent capacity allowed from Thursday.

"It's tough to accept I'm already out.

"If I'd won today there would have been a bit of a crowd tomorrow and I love to play on front of the crowd. I'm disappointed and sad."

<h2>- Medvedev clay woes continue -</h2>

Russian third seed Daniil Medvedev, who replaced Nadal this week as world number two, fell 6-2, 6-4 to 27th-ranked compatriot Aslan Karatsev in round two.

Medvedev also exited early in Madrid last week after pulling out of Monte Carlo after testing positive for Covid-19.

Karatsev, who won his first ATP title in Dubai in March, next plays American Reilly Opelka, ranked 47th, in the third round.

Austrian fourth seed Dominic Thiem rallied from a set down to battle past Hungary's Marton Fucsovics into the third round.

US Open champion Thiem, a semi-finalist in Madrid last week, won 3-6, 7-6 (7/5), 6-0 in 2hr 33min against 44th-ranked Fucsovics in the clay-court tournament which acts as a warm-up for the French Open.

Thiem, twice a runner-up at Roland Garros, will next play Italian Lorenzo Sonego who beat wildcard Gianluca Mager 6-4, 6-4.

"It was tough the whole match. I was struggling with the timing a little bit," said Thiem.&nbsp;

"I was fighting a lot with myself but kept fighting from the first to the last point. That paid off today, and I'm super happy about it."

Sixth seed Alexander Zverev of Germany, the 2017 Rome winner, eased past Bolivian Hugo Dellien 6-2, 6-2 to set up a third round meeting with Japan's Kei Nishikori.

Greek fifth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas advanced to a third round meeting with Italian ninth seed Matteo Berrettini.

Rafael Nadal opened his attempt to win a 10th Italian Open title on Wednesday with a straight sets victory over teenager Jannik Sinner to advance to the third round.

Rafael Nadal opened his attempt to win a 10th Italian Open title on Wednesday with a straight sets victory over teenager Jannik Sinner to advance to the third round. The 20-time Grand Slam winner won through 7-5, 6-4 in two-hours 10-minutes to bring his record to 16-1 in his opening matches in the Foro Italico. His 18th-ranked Italian opponent had dug deep to try and pull off an upset, saving six set points in the first set in which he had been twice a break up. Sinner was again a break up in the second before Nadal powered back for 4-4 seeing off the 19-year-old on his fourth match point. "After Madrid it was important to start with a positive feeling," said Nadal, who was beaten in the last eight at both previous Masters events, in Monte Carlo and Madrid. "Today was a tough match. I think I did a lot of things well. I made mistakes too but combined these with positive things too." Nadal, 34, next plays Canadian Denis Shapovalov, the 13th seed, for a place in the quarter-final. Top seed Novak Djokovic and second seed Nadal have accounted for 14 of the past 16 titles at Foro Italico. "It's a lesson that's tough to accept," said Sinner, who also lost to Nadal in the quarter-final Roland Garros last year. The teenager had been hoping to benefit from the presence of the home crowd in later rounds with a 25 percent capacity allowed from Thursday. "It's tough to accept I'm already out. "If I'd won today there would have been a bit of a crowd tomorrow and I love to play on front of the crowd. I'm disappointed and sad." - Medvedev clay woes continue - Russian third seed Daniil Medvedev, who replaced Nadal this week as world number two, fell 6-2, 6-4 to 27th-ranked compatriot Aslan Karatsev in round two. Medvedev also exited early in Madrid last week after pulling out of Monte Carlo after testing positive for Covid-19. Karatsev, who won his first ATP title in Dubai in March, next plays American Reilly Opelka, ranked 47th, in the third round. Austrian fourth seed Dominic Thiem rallied from a set down to battle past Hungary's Marton Fucsovics into the third round. US Open champion Thiem, a semi-finalist in Madrid last week, won 3-6, 7-6 (7/5), 6-0 in 2hr 33min against 44th-ranked Fucsovics in the clay-court tournament which acts as a warm-up for the French Open. Thiem, twice a runner-up at Roland Garros, will next play Italian Lorenzo Sonego who beat wildcard Gianluca Mager 6-4, 6-4. "It was tough the whole match. I was struggling with the timing a little bit," said Thiem. "I was fighting a lot with myself but kept fighting from the first to the last point. That paid off today, and I'm super happy about it." Sixth seed Alexander Zverev of Germany, the 2017 Rome winner, eased past Bolivian Hugo Dellien 6-2, 6-2 to set up a third round meeting with Japan's Kei Nishikori. Greek fifth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas advanced to a third round meeting with Italian ninth seed Matteo Berrettini.

Nadal off to winning start in 10th Italian Open title bid

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has played down talk of a summer spending spree in a bid to revive the Anfield club's fortunes.

The German boss believes it will be a relatively quiet transfer window despite speculation linking Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappe and Jadon Sancho with big-money moves.&nbsp;

But, with clubs across Europe still counting the cost of the coronavirus pandemic on their finances as a result of having to play behind closed doors, the continent's leading teams have a lot less spending money than in previous years.&nbsp;

Liverpool's finances could be stretched even further if the Merseysiders fail to qualify for the Champions League, with Klopp adamant he will not spend heavily after his side ceded the Premier League title to Manchester City.

Klopp believes many teams won't move into the transfer window until after Euro 2022, saying: "The market will be really strange.&nbsp;

"I hear about really big money moves... is Kylian Mbappe going? Haaland? Sancho? I don't see that happening a lot this summer because the football world is still not in the same place it was before.

"We will see how the market will develop but for sure it won't be an early market."

<h2>- 'Beat the best team in the world' -</h2>

Klopp, pointing out Liverpool had won the Champions League and Premier League during his time at Anfield, said: "I never look at other clubs and think 'They can do this, so we can't do that'.

"I am not interested in being the coach of the best team in the world, I am interested in being the coach of the team who can beat the best team in the world."

And he said a fully-fit Liverpool squad could still challenge City, Chelsea and Thursday's opponents Manchester United, with Reds boss looking forward to seeing Virgil Van Dijk, Joe Gomez and Joel Matip, as well as captain Jordan Henderson, returning to pre-season training.

"Getting the (injured) players back makes us better, definitely. These are our first transfers," he said.

Meanwhile Klopp said it was a "crime" to make United play three games in five days.

United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer made 10 changes ahead of his side's 2-1 home defeat by Leicester on Tuesday, which confirmed Manchester City as champions.

But the result also gave the Foxes, now in third, a nine-point advantage over deposed champions Liverpool, who are scrambling to qualify for next season's Champions League.

Liverpool, who have two games in hand over Leicester, are seven points adrift of fourth-placed Chelsea, having played a game fewer.

United's congested schedule came about following the postponement of their clash with Liverpool earlier this month as a result of protests at Old Trafford against US owners the Glazers.

"To play Sunday-Tuesday-Thursday is a crime," said Klopp. "It is. But it is not the fault of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and the players."

He added: "If we don't qualify for the Champions League it is not the fault of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and his team selection or the Premier League, it is our fault."

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has played down talk of a summer spending spree in a bid to revive the Anfield club's fortunes. The German boss believes it will be a relatively quiet transfer window despite speculation linking Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappe and Jadon Sancho with big-money moves.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has played down talk of a summer spending spree in a bid to revive the Anfield club's fortunes. The German boss believes it will be a relatively quiet transfer window despite speculation linking Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappe and Jadon Sancho with big-money moves. But, with clubs across Europe still counting the cost of the coronavirus pandemic on their finances as a result of having to play behind closed doors, the continent's leading teams have a lot less spending money than in previous years. Liverpool's finances could be stretched even further if the Merseysiders fail to qualify for the Champions League, with Klopp adamant he will not spend heavily after his side ceded the Premier League title to Manchester City. Klopp believes many teams won't move into the transfer window until after Euro 2022, saying: "The market will be really strange. "I hear about really big money moves... is Kylian Mbappe going? Haaland? Sancho? I don't see that happening a lot this summer because the football world is still not in the same place it was before. "We will see how the market will develop but for sure it won't be an early market." - 'Beat the best team in the world' - Klopp, pointing out Liverpool had won the Champions League and Premier League during his time at Anfield, said: "I never look at other clubs and think 'They can do this, so we can't do that'. "I am not interested in being the coach of the best team in the world, I am interested in being the coach of the team who can beat the best team in the world." And he said a fully-fit Liverpool squad could still challenge City, Chelsea and Thursday's opponents Manchester United, with Reds boss looking forward to seeing Virgil Van Dijk, Joe Gomez and Joel Matip, as well as captain Jordan Henderson, returning to pre-season training. "Getting the (injured) players back makes us better, definitely. These are our first transfers," he said. Meanwhile Klopp said it was a "crime" to make United play three games in five days. United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer made 10 changes ahead of his side's 2-1 home defeat by Leicester on Tuesday, which confirmed Manchester City as champions. But the result also gave the Foxes, now in third, a nine-point advantage over deposed champions Liverpool, who are scrambling to qualify for next season's Champions League. Liverpool, who have two games in hand over Leicester, are seven points adrift of fourth-placed Chelsea, having played a game fewer. United's congested schedule came about following the postponement of their clash with Liverpool earlier this month as a result of protests at Old Trafford against US owners the Glazers. "To play Sunday-Tuesday-Thursday is a crime," said Klopp. "It is. But it is not the fault of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and the players." He added: "If we don't qualify for the Champions League it is not the fault of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and his team selection or the Premier League, it is our fault."

Klopp wary of Liverpool summer spending spree

Thomas Tuchel said Chelsea face a "big fight" to finish in the Premier League's top four after their damaging 1-0 defeat against Arsenal on Wednesday.

Tuchel's side missed a chance to climb above Leicester into third place as Emile Smith Rowe bagged the first half winner at Stamford Bridge.

Smith Rowe punished a wayward back-pass from Jorginho to leave Tuchel anticipating a tense finish in the race to qualify for next season's Champions League.

Fourth placed Chelsea are six points ahead of fifth placed West Ham, who have a game in hand, and seven in front of sixth placed Liverpool, who have two games in hand.

Chelsea have two league matches remaining against Leicester and Aston Villa and Tuchel said: "It was always a big fight, it never felt like a relief.

"If anybody felt it like this today, maybe, it's the last lesson to learn.

"It's still in our hands. It is another chance missed. We have had some good results, so we have to cope now with a loss."

Tuchel conceded he was to blame for Chelsea's first defeat in eight games in all competitions after he made seven changes from Saturday's win at Manchester City.

"Maybe I gave some signals to the team with changes that Saturday is on my mind," Tuchel said in reference this weekend's FA Cup final against Leicester.

"Even if it's one per cent or five per cent, this is not how we approach things, because you get punished. It's hard to swallow, hard to accept, but there's no other way."

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta admitted the Gunners' first Stamford Bridge win in a decade was much-needed after a difficult period.

Arteta has been under-fire during a troubled campaign, but he insisted his side have not given up hope of qualifying for Europe next term.

They could make the new Europa Conference League and have an outside chance of reaching the Europa League.

"Nothing is broken inside. I don't know how they want to try from the outside. They (the media) try to put things on me that I never said," Arteta said.

"I said if I don't get 120 percent off each player it's my fault and responsibility. It wasn't like this in the press. I'm so annoyed by that.

"They can try but they're not going to break it. The players showed how much they mean it, how much spirit and attitude there is in the group, and how much they care about it.

"It was a big message. Europe is still mathematically possible, so we have to keep giving ourselves the last chance while it's possible."

Thomas Tuchel said Chelsea face a "big fight" to finish in the Premier League's top four after their damaging 1-0 defeat against Arsenal on Wednesday. Tuchel's side missed a chance to climb above Leicester into third place as Emile Smith Rowe bagged the first half winner at Stamford Bridge.

Thomas Tuchel said Chelsea face a "big fight" to finish in the Premier League's top four after their damaging 1-0 defeat against Arsenal on Wednesday. Tuchel's side missed a chance to climb above Leicester into third place as Emile Smith Rowe bagged the first half winner at Stamford Bridge. Smith Rowe punished a wayward back-pass from Jorginho to leave Tuchel anticipating a tense finish in the race to qualify for next season's Champions League. Fourth placed Chelsea are six points ahead of fifth placed West Ham, who have a game in hand, and seven in front of sixth placed Liverpool, who have two games in hand. Chelsea have two league matches remaining against Leicester and Aston Villa and Tuchel said: "It was always a big fight, it never felt like a relief. "If anybody felt it like this today, maybe, it's the last lesson to learn. "It's still in our hands. It is another chance missed. We have had some good results, so we have to cope now with a loss." Tuchel conceded he was to blame for Chelsea's first defeat in eight games in all competitions after he made seven changes from Saturday's win at Manchester City. "Maybe I gave some signals to the team with changes that Saturday is on my mind," Tuchel said in reference this weekend's FA Cup final against Leicester. "Even if it's one per cent or five per cent, this is not how we approach things, because you get punished. It's hard to swallow, hard to accept, but there's no other way." Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta admitted the Gunners' first Stamford Bridge win in a decade was much-needed after a difficult period. Arteta has been under-fire during a troubled campaign, but he insisted his side have not given up hope of qualifying for Europe next term. They could make the new Europa Conference League and have an outside chance of reaching the Europa League. "Nothing is broken inside. I don't know how they want to try from the outside. They (the media) try to put things on me that I never said," Arteta said. "I said if I don't get 120 percent off each player it's my fault and responsibility. It wasn't like this in the press. I'm so annoyed by that. "They can try but they're not going to break it. The players showed how much they mean it, how much spirit and attitude there is in the group, and how much they care about it. "It was a big message. Europe is still mathematically possible, so we have to keep giving ourselves the last chance while it's possible."

Tuchel ready for 'big fight' as Chelsea suffer top four blow

Pep Guardiola has paid tribute to Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp for inspiring him to become a better manager following Manchester City's Premier League title success.

City were crowned champions for the third time in four seasons on Tuesday when Manchester United lost to Leicester, succeeding Klopp's Liverpool.

Klopp described Guardiola as the best manager in the world at a press conference on Wednesday and the Catalan was full of compliments in return.

"Jurgen, of course, was an inspiration for me," said Guardiola. "He made me, through his teams at Dortmund and Liverpool, a better manager. He made me think a lot about games and opponents. Thank you so much."

Guardiola revealed he and his players celebrated with pizza at an impromptu party at their training complex after defeat for second-placed United.

"It was so nice," he said. "The unexpected parties are the nicest ones.

"We came here in our bubble. We drank a bit, we danced, we hugged a lot, we remembered how good it was. Then at 11:30 15 pizzas arrived and that was the best moment of the night."

City's success this season, which also includes their run to the Champions League final and a League Cup triumph, has come after Guardiola signed a new contract in November.

The Spaniard, who arrived at the club in 2016, had been in the final year of his previous deal but he said he wanted to repay the faith shown in him by chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak.

He said: "I cannot forget my first season here, when we didn't win anything, the behaviour of my chairman. And after the big disappointment against Lyon last season (defeat in the Champions League quarter-finals), the support I had from my chairman.

"That's why he is part of our success and it's dedicated to him, for supporting me, like I support my backroom staff and the players.

"Now we have two weeks ahead of us to prepare for the dream come true of playing in the final of the Champions League."

Pep Guardiola has paid tribute to Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp for inspiring him to become a better manager following Manchester City's Premier League title success.

Pep Guardiola has paid tribute to Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp for inspiring him to become a better manager following Manchester City's Premier League title success. City were crowned champions for the third time in four seasons on Tuesday when Manchester United lost to Leicester, succeeding Klopp's Liverpool. Klopp described Guardiola as the best manager in the world at a press conference on Wednesday and the Catalan was full of compliments in return. "Jurgen, of course, was an inspiration for me," said Guardiola. "He made me, through his teams at Dortmund and Liverpool, a better manager. He made me think a lot about games and opponents. Thank you so much." Guardiola revealed he and his players celebrated with pizza at an impromptu party at their training complex after defeat for second-placed United. "It was so nice," he said. "The unexpected parties are the nicest ones. "We came here in our bubble. We drank a bit, we danced, we hugged a lot, we remembered how good it was. Then at 11:30 15 pizzas arrived and that was the best moment of the night." City's success this season, which also includes their run to the Champions League final and a League Cup triumph, has come after Guardiola signed a new contract in November. The Spaniard, who arrived at the club in 2016, had been in the final year of his previous deal but he said he wanted to repay the faith shown in him by chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak. He said: "I cannot forget my first season here, when we didn't win anything, the behaviour of my chairman. And after the big disappointment against Lyon last season (defeat in the Champions League quarter-finals), the support I had from my chairman. "That's why he is part of our success and it's dedicated to him, for supporting me, like I support my backroom staff and the players. "Now we have two weeks ahead of us to prepare for the dream come true of playing in the final of the Champions League."

Guardiola hails 'inspirational' Klopp as he savours Premier League triumph

Ahead of the much-awaited England tour, where Team India will not only play the final of the ICC World Test Championship but also a five-match Test series against England, the Indian players have been asked to enter the bio-secure bubble on May 19 in Mumbai. <o:p></o:p>

The Indian players, part of the three-and-a-half-month-long tour to the UK, have been asked to regroup in Mumbai on May 19 and enter a 10-day quarantine period. <o:p></o:p>

“Yes, those travelling to England are entering the bio-bubble on May 19 after regrouping in Mumbai. After completing the hard quarantine (confined to hotel rooms) in Mumbai, the team will depart for the UK on June 2,” a source close to the Indian team told WION. <o:p></o:p>

The BCCI wanted to complete a quarantine period to avoid any positive COVID-19 cases in the United Kingdom. The Indian board is also in talks with the England Cricket Board (ECB) to reduce the 10-day soft quarantine (training allowed) as it will be a bubble-to-bubble movement. However, it remains to be seen whether there will be any concession in this regard for the Indian contingent.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/official-ramesh-powar-appointed-head-coach-of-indian-womens-cricket-team-384783" hreflang="en">Official: Ramesh Powar appointed head coach of Indian women’s cricket team</a><o:p></o:p>

Earlier, the BCCI had announced a 24-member squad including four standby players for the long season in the UK, which is scheduled to conclude on September 14 following the grueling five-match Test series against Joe Root-led England.<o:p></o:p>

Out of those 24, KL Rahul and Wriddhiman Saha would have to undergo a fitness test while Prasidh Krishna, who tested positive for COVID-19 a few days back, will have to return negative to be eligible to travel.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/they-werent-going-to-gabba-australia-skipper-tim-paine-says-team-india-good-at-creating-sideshows-384723" hreflang="en">'They weren't going to Gabba': Australia skipper Tim Paine says Team India good at 'creating sideshows'</a>

Whereas the squad for the Indian women's team is likely to be announced on Friday. India women play three WODIs as many T20Is and one-off Test against England starting June 16.

<h2 class="MsoNormal">India Squad for WTC final vs New Zealand, and five-match Test Series vs England<o:p></o:p></h2>

India’s squad: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (Captain), Ajinkya Rahane (vice-captain), Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), R. Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohd. Shami, Md. Siraj, Shardul Thakur, Umesh Yadav, KL Rahul (subject to fitness clearance), Wriddhiman Saha (wicket-keeper; subject to fitness clearance).<o:p></o:p>

Standby players: Abhimanyu Easwaran, Prasidh Krishna, Avesh Khan, Arzan Nagwaswalla<o:p></o:p>

Ahead of the much-awaited England tour, where Team India will not only play the final of the ICC World Test Championship but also a five-match Test series against England, the Indian players have been asked to enter the bio-secure bubble on May 19 in Mumbai.

Ahead of the much-awaited England tour, where Team India will not only play the final of the ICC World Test Championship but also a five-match Test series against England, the Indian players have been asked to enter the bio-secure bubble on May 19 in Mumbai. The Indian players, part of the three-and-a-half-month-long tour to the UK, have been asked to regroup in Mumbai on May 19 and enter a 10-day quarantine period. “Yes, those travelling to England are entering the bio-bubble on May 19 after regrouping in Mumbai. After completing the hard quarantine (confined to hotel rooms) in Mumbai, the team will depart for the UK on June 2,” a source close to the Indian team told WION. The BCCI wanted to complete a quarantine period to avoid any positive COVID-19 cases in the United Kingdom. The Indian board is also in talks with the England Cricket Board (ECB) to reduce the 10-day soft quarantine (training allowed) as it will be a bubble-to-bubble movement. However, it remains to be seen whether there will be any concession in this regard for the Indian contingent. ALSO READ: Official: Ramesh Powar appointed head coach of Indian women’s cricket team Earlier, the BCCI had announced a 24-member squad including four standby players for the long season in the UK, which is scheduled to conclude on September 14 following the grueling five-match Test series against Joe Root-led England. Out of those 24, KL Rahul and Wriddhiman Saha would have to undergo a fitness test while Prasidh Krishna, who tested positive for COVID-19 a few days back, will have to return negative to be eligible to travel. ALSO READ: 'They weren't going to Gabba': Australia skipper Tim Paine says Team India good at 'creating sideshows' Whereas the squad for the Indian women's team is likely to be announced on Friday. India women play three WODIs as many T20Is and one-off Test against England starting June 16. India Squad for WTC final vs New Zealand, and five-match Test Series vs England India’s squad: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (Captain), Ajinkya Rahane (vice-captain), Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), R. Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohd. Shami, Md. Siraj, Shardul Thakur, Umesh Yadav, KL Rahul (subject to fitness clearance), Wriddhiman Saha (wicket-keeper; subject to fitness clearance). Standby players: Abhimanyu Easwaran, Prasidh Krishna, Avesh Khan, Arzan Nagwaswalla

Team India to enter bio-bubble on May 19 in Mumbai ahead of England tour

Cristiano Ronaldo could be involved in a massively surprising return to his boyhood club Sporting Lisbon this summer after his mother Dolores Aveiro insisted that she will try to convince the Portuguese stalwart to return to where he started his career.<o:p></o:p>

While Ronaldo currently leads the goalscoring charts in Serie A, Juventus could finish the season outside the top four, which will end their hopes of playing UEFA Champions League next season. However, Juventus as a club has still not pulled out of the controversial European Super League and the matter is expected to be dragged for weeks. <o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, Ronaldo also completed 100 goals for Juventus as he became the fastest player in Serie A to achieve the milestone and the only player to score a century of goals in three major European leagues. <o:p></o:p>

Ronaldo started his senior career at Sporting and won the Portuguese title for the first time since 2002.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/official-ramesh-powar-appointed-head-coach-of-indian-womens-cricket-team-384783" hreflang="en">Official: Ramesh Powar appointed head coach of Indian women’s cricket team</a><o:p></o:p>

Ronaldo’s mother, an avid Sporting fan, cleared the air by saying she will try and convince Ronaldo to join the Portuguese club. <o:p></o:p>

"I'll talk to him (Cristiano) to bring him back," she said from her balcony as she spoke to Sporting fans that had taken to the streets to celebrate.<o:p></o:p>

"Next year, he will play in Alvalade (Sporting's stadium).".&nbsp;

&nbsp;ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-could-be-difficult-rajasthan-royals-ben-stokes-on-playing-in-remainder-of-ipl-2021-384755" hreflang="en">'It could be difficult': Rajasthan Royals' Ben Stokes on playing in remainder of IPL 2021</a>

Ronaldo, 36, has one year left in his current contract at Juventus. However, the former Real Madrid forward is linked with a departure this summer with former club Manchester United being touted as one of the destinations.<o:p></o:p>

Cristiano Ronaldo could be involved in a massively surprising return to his boyhood club Sporting Lisbon this summer after his mother Dolores Aveiro insisted that she will try to convince the Portuguese stalwart to return to where he started his career.

Cristiano Ronaldo could be involved in a massively surprising return to his boyhood club Sporting Lisbon this summer after his mother Dolores Aveiro insisted that she will try to convince the Portuguese stalwart to return to where he started his career. While Ronaldo currently leads the goalscoring charts in Serie A, Juventus could finish the season outside the top four, which will end their hopes of playing UEFA Champions League next season. However, Juventus as a club has still not pulled out of the controversial European Super League and the matter is expected to be dragged for weeks. Meanwhile, Ronaldo also completed 100 goals for Juventus as he became the fastest player in Serie A to achieve the milestone and the only player to score a century of goals in three major European leagues. Ronaldo started his senior career at Sporting and won the Portuguese title for the first time since 2002. ALSO READ: Official: Ramesh Powar appointed head coach of Indian women’s cricket team Ronaldo’s mother, an avid Sporting fan, cleared the air by saying she will try and convince Ronaldo to join the Portuguese club. "I'll talk to him (Cristiano) to bring him back," she said from her balcony as she spoke to Sporting fans that had taken to the streets to celebrate. "Next year, he will play in Alvalade (Sporting's stadium).". ALSO READ: 'It could be difficult': Rajasthan Royals' Ben Stokes on playing in remainder of IPL 2021 Ronaldo, 36, has one year left in his current contract at Juventus. However, the former Real Madrid forward is linked with a departure this summer with former club Manchester United being touted as one of the destinations.

Cristiano Ronaldo to sign for Sporting Lisbon? Juve star's mother fuels transfer speculation

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday announced the appointment of Ramesh Powar as the head coach of the Indian women’s cricket team. The BCCI had advertised for the post and received over 35 applications.<o:p></o:p>

The three-member Cricket Advisory Committee comprising Sulakshana Naik, Madan Lal and Rudra Pratap Singh interviewed the applicants and unanimously agreed on Powar’s candidature.<o:p></o:p>

A former international, Powar played 2 Tests and 31 ODIs for India. Post his playing career, he took up cricket coaching and is an ECB Level 2 certified coach and has also attended BCCI-NCA Level 2 coaching course. <o:p></o:p>

A former coach of the Indian Women’s Team from July-November 2018, it was under him that India qualified for the semi-final of the ICC T20 Women’s World Cup in 2018 and also won 14 T20 matches in a row.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/they-werent-going-to-gabba-australia-skipper-tim-paine-says-team-india-good-at-creating-sideshows-384723" hreflang="en">'They weren't going to Gabba': Australia skipper Tim Paine says Team India good at 'creating sideshows'</a><o:p></o:p>

He recently coached the Mumbai senior team that won the Vijay Hazare Trophy and has worked at the National Cricket Academy as a Bowling Coach.<o:p></o:p>

Powar’s last term as the head coach of the Indian women’s team was cut short after a spat with ODI skipper Mithali Raj. However, it would be interesting to see how both Powar and Mithali continue in the 50-over circuit.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/domination-continues-india-remain-atop-of-icc-mens-test-team-rankings-384711" hreflang="en">Domination continues! India remain atop of ICC Men’s Test team rankings</a><o:p></o:p>

Powar succeeds WV Raman, who guided the team to the final of ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in 2020. <o:p></o:p>

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday announced the appointment of Ramesh Powar as the head coach of the Indian women’s cricket team. The BCCI had advertised for the post and received over 35 applications.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday announced the appointment of Ramesh Powar as the head coach of the Indian women’s cricket team. The BCCI had advertised for the post and received over 35 applications. The three-member Cricket Advisory Committee comprising Sulakshana Naik, Madan Lal and Rudra Pratap Singh interviewed the applicants and unanimously agreed on Powar’s candidature. A former international, Powar played 2 Tests and 31 ODIs for India. Post his playing career, he took up cricket coaching and is an ECB Level 2 certified coach and has also attended BCCI-NCA Level 2 coaching course. A former coach of the Indian Women’s Team from July-November 2018, it was under him that India qualified for the semi-final of the ICC T20 Women’s World Cup in 2018 and also won 14 T20 matches in a row. ALSO READ: 'They weren't going to Gabba': Australia skipper Tim Paine says Team India good at 'creating sideshows' He recently coached the Mumbai senior team that won the Vijay Hazare Trophy and has worked at the National Cricket Academy as a Bowling Coach. Powar’s last term as the head coach of the Indian women’s team was cut short after a spat with ODI skipper Mithali Raj. However, it would be interesting to see how both Powar and Mithali continue in the 50-over circuit. ALSO READ: Domination continues! India remain atop of ICC Men’s Test team rankings Powar succeeds WV Raman, who guided the team to the final of ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in 2020.

Official: Ramesh Powar appointed head coach of Indian women’s cricket team

The much-anticipated Champions League final between Manchester City and Chelsea has been shifted from Istanbul, Turkey, to Porto in Portugal, UEFA announced on Thursday.<o:p></o:p>

The most awaited UCL final on May 29 has been shifted to allow English spectators to attend the match with the travel between the UK and Turkey suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic.<o:p></o:p>

UEFA has further announced that up to 6,000 spectators each from Chelsea and Man City will be allowed to attend the Champions League final. <o:p></o:p>

"We accept that the decision of the British Government to place Turkey on the red list for travel was taken in good faith and in the best interests of protecting its citizens from the spread of the virus but it also presented us with a major challenge in staging a final featuring two English teams," UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin said in a statement.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atletico-edge-closer-to-la-liga-title-after-real-sociedad-win-384709" hreflang="en">Atletico edge closer to La Liga title after Real Sociedad win</a><o:p></o:p>

"After the year that fans have endured, it is not right that they don't have the chance to watch their teams in the biggest game of the season," he added.<o:p></o:p>

There were reports that the UCL final would be played at London’s iconic Wembley Stadium but the move fell out due to certain allowances including&nbsp;quarantine-free visits by media and other authorities. <o:p></o:p>

"The difficulties of moving the final are great and the FA and the authorities made every effort to try to stage the match in England and I would like to thank them for their work in trying to make it happen," Ceferin said.

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><o:p></o:p>

UEFA added that COVID-19 protocols in the UK made it difficult for the match to be held in the English capital. <o:p></o:p>

"UEFA discussed moving the match to England but, despite exhaustive efforts on the part of the Football Association and the authorities, it was not possible to achieve the necessary exemptions from UK quarantine arrangements," it said.<o:p></o:p>

The much-anticipated Champions League final between Manchester City and Chelsea has been shifted from Istanbul, Turkey, to Porto in Portugal, UEFA announced on Thursday.

The much-anticipated Champions League final between Manchester City and Chelsea has been shifted from Istanbul, Turkey, to Porto in Portugal, UEFA announced on Thursday. The most awaited UCL final on May 29 has been shifted to allow English spectators to attend the match with the travel between the UK and Turkey suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic. UEFA has further announced that up to 6,000 spectators each from Chelsea and Man City will be allowed to attend the Champions League final. "We accept that the decision of the British Government to place Turkey on the red list for travel was taken in good faith and in the best interests of protecting its citizens from the spread of the virus but it also presented us with a major challenge in staging a final featuring two English teams," UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin said in a statement. ALSO READ: Atletico edge closer to La Liga title after Real Sociedad win "After the year that fans have endured, it is not right that they don't have the chance to watch their teams in the biggest game of the season," he added. There were reports that the UCL final would be played at London’s iconic Wembley Stadium but the move fell out due to certain allowances including quarantine-free visits by media and other authorities. "The difficulties of moving the final are great and the FA and the authorities made every effort to try to stage the match in England and I would like to thank them for their work in trying to make it happen," Ceferin said. ALSO READ: 'CHAMPIONS': Manchester City fans take to streets after Premier League win UEFA added that COVID-19 protocols in the UK made it difficult for the match to be held in the English capital. "UEFA discussed moving the match to England but, despite exhaustive efforts on the part of the Football Association and the authorities, it was not possible to achieve the necessary exemptions from UK quarantine arrangements," it said.

Man City vs Chelsea: UEFA Champions League final moved to Porto from Istanbul

Ace all-rounder Ben Stokes has admitted that it will be difficult for him and his fellow England teammates to participate in the remainder of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 if and when it resumes while citing the international calendar.<o:p></o:p>

IPL 2021 was indefinitely postponed last week after COVID-19 cases emerged in the bio-bubble of multiple franchises. <o:p></o:p>

Stokes suffered a fractured finger during Rajasthan Royals’ opening match against Punjab Kings and was ruled out of the tournament. But fans hoped the premier England all-rounder will return if the postponed T20 tournament resumes later in the year. <o:p></o:p>

"We don't know if or when the tournament will be rearranged, but as the ECB have said it could be difficult for the England boys to have a free gap," Stokes wrote in his column for 'Daily Mirror'.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/took-it-with-class-srh-assistant-coach-brad-haddin-opens-up-on-david-warner-captaincy-snub-384742" hreflang="en">'Took it with class': SRH assistant coach Brad Haddin opens up on David Warner captaincy snub</a><o:p></o:p>

"After this year though, I do look forward to playing a full part again at some point in the future," Stokes wrote.<o:p></o:p>

Stokes sustained a setback after fracturing his finger and opted to undergo surgery after initial skepticism. Without giving a particular date on his return, Stokes said he should be back playing in seven to nine weeks. <o:p></o:p>

"I can't put a date on when I'll be back playing again, but as long as things progress as well as they have then I should hope it will be well before the three months that was first feared and more like seven, eight, or nine weeks.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/they-werent-going-to-gabba-australia-skipper-tim-paine-says-team-india-good-at-creating-sideshows-384723" hreflang="en">'They weren't going to Gabba': Australia skipper Tim Paine says Team India good at 'creating sideshows'</a><o:p></o:p>

"You can never know for sure how long these things will take because it is not just about the technical side of healing and getting the bone strong, there is the big issue of having confidence in it to play professional sport."<o:p></o:p>

"It was tough to say goodbye to the guys at the Rajasthan Royals earlier than I wanted, but the subsequent suspension of the tournament means that everyone is now back early with their families as India tries to get through such a difficult time."<o:p></o:p>

Stokes is touted to play a major role for England in the upcoming T20 World Cup after starring in the ICC World Cup 2019 where he was awarded the player of the tournament. <o:p></o:p>

Ace all-rounder Ben Stokes has admitted that it will be difficult for him and his fellow England teammates to participate in the remainder of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 if and when it resumes while citing the international calendar.

Ace all-rounder Ben Stokes has admitted that it will be difficult for him and his fellow England teammates to participate in the remainder of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 if and when it resumes while citing the international calendar. IPL 2021 was indefinitely postponed last week after COVID-19 cases emerged in the bio-bubble of multiple franchises. Stokes suffered a fractured finger during Rajasthan Royals’ opening match against Punjab Kings and was ruled out of the tournament. But fans hoped the premier England all-rounder will return if the postponed T20 tournament resumes later in the year. "We don't know if or when the tournament will be rearranged, but as the ECB have said it could be difficult for the England boys to have a free gap," Stokes wrote in his column for 'Daily Mirror'. ALSO READ: 'Took it with class': SRH assistant coach Brad Haddin opens up on David Warner captaincy snub "After this year though, I do look forward to playing a full part again at some point in the future," Stokes wrote. Stokes sustained a setback after fracturing his finger and opted to undergo surgery after initial skepticism. Without giving a particular date on his return, Stokes said he should be back playing in seven to nine weeks. "I can't put a date on when I'll be back playing again, but as long as things progress as well as they have then I should hope it will be well before the three months that was first feared and more like seven, eight, or nine weeks. ALSO READ: 'They weren't going to Gabba': Australia skipper Tim Paine says Team India good at 'creating sideshows' "You can never know for sure how long these things will take because it is not just about the technical side of healing and getting the bone strong, there is the big issue of having confidence in it to play professional sport." "It was tough to say goodbye to the guys at the Rajasthan Royals earlier than I wanted, but the subsequent suspension of the tournament means that everyone is now back early with their families as India tries to get through such a difficult time." Stokes is touted to play a major role for England in the upcoming T20 World Cup after starring in the ICC World Cup 2019 where he was awarded the player of the tournament.

'It could be difficult': Rajasthan Royals' Ben Stokes on playing in remainder of IPL 2021

Sunrisers Hyderabad assistant coach Brad Haddin has opened up about the management’s decision to replace David Warner as the captain of the team during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. Haddin revealed that Warner responded to the demotion with ‘class’ and just got back with his job as nothing happened.<o:p></o:p>

Warner was not only removed from the captaincy role but was even dropped from the playing XI, a move that shocked the cricket fraternity considering Warner has been among the most consistent players in the history of IPL. <o:p></o:p>

Haddin said the way Warner would have come back in contention to start in the next few days while adding the southpaw is one of the best in the world in the shortest format of the game. <o:p></o:p>

While SRH was lying at the bottom of the IPL 2021 table, the SRH management decided to shake things up in a bid to get back to winning run.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/they-werent-going-to-gabba-australia-skipper-tim-paine-says-team-india-good-at-creating-sideshows-384723" hreflang="en">'They weren't going to Gabba': Australia skipper Tim Paine says Team India good at 'creating sideshows'</a><o:p></o:p>

“He took it with class. It was a bit of a shock to everyone. Management decided to go in a different direction to try to spark something within the team. We weren’t playing to the standard we needed to. With Davey, the way he handled it was all class. He just got on back with the job,” Haddin (while being asked about Warner’s reaction) was quoted as saying by Fox Cricket.<o:p></o:p>

“I dare say he would have come back in contention in the next few games. He is one of the best in the world in that form of the game. You only had to look at the way he reacted when he came onto the bench. He was around everyone, running the drinks out. He was still really vocal in the meetings. He handled a difficult situation with a lot of class,” Haddin added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/domination-continues-india-remain-atop-of-icc-mens-test-team-rankings-384711" hreflang="en">Domination continues! India remain atop of ICC Men’s Test team rankings</a>

<o:p></o:p>

While it is unclear whether Warner would return back to SRH if and when the IPL 2021 resumes later this year, the Hyderabad franchise would be itching to clinch a few wins to keep their playoff hopes alive.<o:p></o:p>

Sunrisers Hyderabad assistant coach Brad Haddin has opened up about the management’s decision to replace David Warner as the captain of the team during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021.

Sunrisers Hyderabad assistant coach Brad Haddin has opened up about the management’s decision to replace David Warner as the captain of the team during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. Haddin revealed that Warner responded to the demotion with ‘class’ and just got back with his job as nothing happened. Warner was not only removed from the captaincy role but was even dropped from the playing XI, a move that shocked the cricket fraternity considering Warner has been among the most consistent players in the history of IPL. Haddin said the way Warner would have come back in contention to start in the next few days while adding the southpaw is one of the best in the world in the shortest format of the game. While SRH was lying at the bottom of the IPL 2021 table, the SRH management decided to shake things up in a bid to get back to winning run. ALSO READ: 'They weren't going to Gabba': Australia skipper Tim Paine says Team India good at 'creating sideshows' “He took it with class. It was a bit of a shock to everyone. Management decided to go in a different direction to try to spark something within the team. We weren’t playing to the standard we needed to. With Davey, the way he handled it was all class. He just got on back with the job,” Haddin (while being asked about Warner’s reaction) was quoted as saying by Fox Cricket. “I dare say he would have come back in contention in the next few games. He is one of the best in the world in that form of the game. You only had to look at the way he reacted when he came onto the bench. He was around everyone, running the drinks out. He was still really vocal in the meetings. He handled a difficult situation with a lot of class,” Haddin added. ALSO READ: Domination continues! India remain atop of ICC Men’s Test team rankings While it is unclear whether Warner would return back to SRH if and when the IPL 2021 resumes later this year, the Hyderabad franchise would be itching to clinch a few wins to keep their playoff hopes alive.

'Took it with class': SRH assistant coach Brad Haddin opens up on David Warner captaincy snub

Australia Test captain Tim Paine has taken a sly dig at India as he said that the Men in Blue are good at distracting opponents with things that “do not matter”. Paine’s comments come in the backdrop of India’s historic Test series win against Australia as they became the first team to defeat Australia in Australia on a back-to-back occasion in the longest format of the game.<o:p></o:p>

Ahead of the final Test of the series, reports emerged that the Indian team was unwilling to travel to Brisbane in relation to the COVID-19 situation in the city and bio-secure bubble protocols and reportedly insisted the final Test to be played in Sydney – the host of the third Test. <o:p></o:p>

However, India went to Brisbane and went on to win the Test and the series. Paine said the distractions created by the Indian team played a role in Australia losing focus ahead of the series decider.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/domination-continues-india-remain-atop-of-icc-mens-test-team-rankings-384711" hreflang="en">Domination continues! India remain atop of ICC Men’s Test team rankings</a><o:p></o:p>

"Part of the challenge of playing against India is they're very good at niggling you and trying to distract you with stuff that doesn't really matter and there were times in that series where we fell for that," Paine told news.com.au.<o:p></o:p>

"The classic example was when they said they weren't going to the Gabba so we didn't know where we were going. They're very good at creating these sideshows and we took our eye off the ball."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rahul-dravid-picked-australian-brains-to-build-indias-solid-domestic-structure-greg-chappell-384565" hreflang="en">ahul Dravid picked 'Australian brains' to build India's solid domestic structure: Greg Chappell</a>

While India’s previous tour of Australia was epic in many ways, the 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar trophy win was sweeter for the players and fans given the number of injuries in the first-team. With the likes of Virat Kohli unavailable and many key players like Mohammed Shami, Ravindra Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah among others injured, India put a commendable show to seal a Test series for ages.<o:p></o:p>

Australia Test captain Tim Paine has taken a sly dig at India as he said that the Men in Blue are good at distracting opponents with things that “do not matter”.

Australia Test captain Tim Paine has taken a sly dig at India as he said that the Men in Blue are good at distracting opponents with things that “do not matter”. Paine’s comments come in the backdrop of India’s historic Test series win against Australia as they became the first team to defeat Australia in Australia on a back-to-back occasion in the longest format of the game. Ahead of the final Test of the series, reports emerged that the Indian team was unwilling to travel to Brisbane in relation to the COVID-19 situation in the city and bio-secure bubble protocols and reportedly insisted the final Test to be played in Sydney – the host of the third Test. However, India went to Brisbane and went on to win the Test and the series. Paine said the distractions created by the Indian team played a role in Australia losing focus ahead of the series decider. ALSO READ: Domination continues! India remain atop of ICC Men’s Test team rankings "Part of the challenge of playing against India is they're very good at niggling you and trying to distract you with stuff that doesn't really matter and there were times in that series where we fell for that," Paine told news.com.au. "The classic example was when they said they weren't going to the Gabba so we didn't know where we were going. They're very good at creating these sideshows and we took our eye off the ball." ALSO READ: ahul Dravid picked 'Australian brains' to build India's solid domestic structure: Greg Chappell While India’s previous tour of Australia was epic in many ways, the 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar trophy win was sweeter for the players and fans given the number of injuries in the first-team. With the likes of Virat Kohli unavailable and many key players like Mohammed Shami, Ravindra Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah among others injured, India put a commendable show to seal a Test series for ages.

'They weren't going to Gabba': Australia skipper Tim Paine says Team India good at 'creating sideshows'

A protestor disguised as a journalist gatecrashed the International Olympic Committee (IOC) virtual press conference on Wednesday as he unfurled a banner while shouting profanities and repeating anti-Olympic messages.<o:p></o:p>

The man was given the opportunity to ask the last question of the press conference after the remote meeting of the IOC Executive Board. He straightaway raised a banner to the camera, which red “No Olympics in Tokyo” and went on to repeat "no Olympics anywhere" and "f*** the Olympics".<o:p></o:p>

"No Olympics anywhere," the man said.<o:p></o:p>

"No Olympics anywhere, f*** the Olympics, we don’t want the Olympics anywhere. <o:p></o:p>

"No Olympics in LA, No Olympics in Tokyo."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ioc-confident-of-successful-tokyo-olympics-despite-widespread-opposition-384601" hreflang="en">IOC confident of successful Tokyo Olympics despite widespread opposition</a><o:p></o:p>

The protestor was cut by IOC’s Presidential spokesperson Mark Adams and the organization later deleted the video of the incident in the press briefing.<o:p></o:p>

Tokyo 2020 was the main focus of the meeting as Adams insisted the quadrennial event will go ahead as scheduled despite the state of emergency in Japan due to the rising cases of COVID-19 and dismal public support to host the event in the capital.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hesitant-nadal-joins-chorus-of-concern-about-olympics-384362" hreflang="en">Hesitant Nadal joins chorus of concern about Olympics</a><o:p></o:p>

Tokyo 2020 president Seiko Hashimoto said: "There is slander on social media directed toward athletes and individuals, creating a lot of anxiety for them and it pains my heart. They should not criticise the athletes, they should criticise me the president of the organising committee."<o:p></o:p>

"I personally can't stand that the criticism and calls to cancel or boycott the Olympics are being aimed at the athletes themselves. The athletes should be able to attend the Games with confidence but they're not able to voice that. So we need to ensure we have the proper measures in place to make the Olympics comfortable for athletes,” she added.<o:p></o:p>

A protestor disguised as a journalist gatecrashed the International Olympic Committee (IOC) virtual press conference on Wednesday as he unfurled a banner while shouting profanities and repeating anti-Olympic messages.

A protestor disguised as a journalist gatecrashed the International Olympic Committee (IOC) virtual press conference on Wednesday as he unfurled a banner while shouting profanities and repeating anti-Olympic messages. The man was given the opportunity to ask the last question of the press conference after the remote meeting of the IOC Executive Board. He straightaway raised a banner to the camera, which red “No Olympics in Tokyo” and went on to repeat "no Olympics anywhere" and "f*** the Olympics". "No Olympics anywhere," the man said. "No Olympics anywhere, f*** the Olympics, we don’t want the Olympics anywhere. "No Olympics in LA, No Olympics in Tokyo." ALSO READ: IOC confident of successful Tokyo Olympics despite widespread opposition The protestor was cut by IOC’s Presidential spokesperson Mark Adams and the organization later deleted the video of the incident in the press briefing. Tokyo 2020 was the main focus of the meeting as Adams insisted the quadrennial event will go ahead as scheduled despite the state of emergency in Japan due to the rising cases of COVID-19 and dismal public support to host the event in the capital. ALSO READ: Hesitant Nadal joins chorus of concern about Olympics Tokyo 2020 president Seiko Hashimoto said: "There is slander on social media directed toward athletes and individuals, creating a lot of anxiety for them and it pains my heart. They should not criticise the athletes, they should criticise me the president of the organising committee." "I personally can't stand that the criticism and calls to cancel or boycott the Olympics are being aimed at the athletes themselves. The athletes should be able to attend the Games with confidence but they're not able to voice that. So we need to ensure we have the proper measures in place to make the Olympics comfortable for athletes,” she added.

Protestor gatecrashes IOC's virtual press conference, unfurls anti-Olympic banner

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) on Wednesday said it backed Japanese measures to curb the spread of COVID-19 as was confident that the Tokyo Olympics would be a ‘historic’ event despite widespread public opposition.<o:p></o:p>

The Games commence on July 23 but the host country is still grappling with the dreaded virus. Several polls show that majority of the Japanese population wants the quadrennial event cancelled or postponed again. <o:p></o:p>

"We are now very much in an implementation phase with 78 days to go and fully concentrated on delivering the Games," IOC spokesman Mark Adams told during a virtual press conference.<o:p></o:p>

"When the Games happen and the Japanese people are proud hosts of an event that will be a historic moment, I think I am very confident we will see public opinion hugely in favour of the Games."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-neeraj-chopra-says-virus-restrictions-hit-olympic-hopes-384555" hreflang="en">India's Neeraj Chopra says virus restrictions hit Olympic hopes</a><o:p></o:p>

The virtual press conference, however, was ended abruptly after a protester, signed up as a journalist, asked a question before unfurling a banner that read “No to Olympics” and shouted profanities and “No Olympics anywhere” before being kicked out.<o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, Japan has extended a state of emergency in Tokyo and three other areas until the end of May as cases continue to rise. Even IOC president Thomas Bach’s visit to the country was postponed.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hesitant-nadal-joins-chorus-of-concern-about-olympics-384362" hreflang="en">Hesitant Nadal joins chorus of concern about Olympics</a><o:p></o:p>

An opinion survey conducted from May 7-9 by the Yomiuri Shimbun daily showed 59% of respondents wanted the Games cancelled as opposed to 39% who said they should be held. "Postponement" was not offered as an option.<o:p></o:p>

Another poll conducted at the weekend by TBS News found 65% wanted the Games cancelled or postponed again. More than 300,000 people have signed a petition to cancel the Games since it was launched about five days ago.<o:p></o:p>

"In terms of Japan and Tokyo we understand the caution," Adams said. "We are fully in solidarity with them. People are very cautious. We have to fully trust Japanese authorities."<o:p></o:p>

"There will be ups and downs (in public opinion).We have to take account of public opinion on a longer-term. As thing stand now we are moving full ahead. We continue to plan for full Games. That's the way it has to be for us."<o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from agencies)<o:p></o:p>

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) on Wednesday said it backed Japanese measures to curb the spread of COVID-19 as was confident that the Tokyo Olympics would be a ‘historic’ event despite widespread public opposition.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) on Wednesday said it backed Japanese measures to curb the spread of COVID-19 as was confident that the Tokyo Olympics would be a ‘historic’ event despite widespread public opposition. The Games commence on July 23 but the host country is still grappling with the dreaded virus. Several polls show that majority of the Japanese population wants the quadrennial event cancelled or postponed again. "We are now very much in an implementation phase with 78 days to go and fully concentrated on delivering the Games," IOC spokesman Mark Adams told during a virtual press conference. "When the Games happen and the Japanese people are proud hosts of an event that will be a historic moment, I think I am very confident we will see public opinion hugely in favour of the Games." ALSO READ: India's Neeraj Chopra says virus restrictions hit Olympic hopes The virtual press conference, however, was ended abruptly after a protester, signed up as a journalist, asked a question before unfurling a banner that read “No to Olympics” and shouted profanities and “No Olympics anywhere” before being kicked out. Meanwhile, Japan has extended a state of emergency in Tokyo and three other areas until the end of May as cases continue to rise. Even IOC president Thomas Bach’s visit to the country was postponed. ALSO READ: Hesitant Nadal joins chorus of concern about Olympics An opinion survey conducted from May 7-9 by the Yomiuri Shimbun daily showed 59% of respondents wanted the Games cancelled as opposed to 39% who said they should be held. "Postponement" was not offered as an option. Another poll conducted at the weekend by TBS News found 65% wanted the Games cancelled or postponed again. More than 300,000 people have signed a petition to cancel the Games since it was launched about five days ago. "In terms of Japan and Tokyo we understand the caution," Adams said. "We are fully in solidarity with them. People are very cautious. We have to fully trust Japanese authorities." "There will be ups and downs (in public opinion).We have to take account of public opinion on a longer-term. As thing stand now we are moving full ahead. We continue to plan for full Games. That's the way it has to be for us." (With inputs from agencies)

IOC confident of successful Tokyo Olympics despite widespread opposition

Bayern Munich’s future CEO and former Germany goalkeeper, Oliver Kahn has ruled out a potential summer transfer for Borussia Dortmund hot-shot Erling Haaland. Kahn said that Bayern Munich spending over 100 million Euros for a player is “unimaginable” at this time.<o:p></o:p>

Haaland has established himself as one of the hottest properties in world football and many top European clubs are linked with a move to sign the Norwegian forward. Bayern Munich are one of the clubs touted to sign Haaland in the summer but Kahn has claimed that they won’t be able to match the transfer fees given the turbulent financial climate of the footballing world.<o:p></o:p>

"Sorry, whoever spoke about that didn't understand the situation," the Bayern director, who will succeed Karl-Heinz Rummenigge as CEO later this year, told Bild.<o:p></o:p>

"A package that costs - as we heard - over €100m is unimaginable for FC Bayern at the moment."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-trust-the-authorities-jurgen-klopp-on-safety-concerns-over-man-utd-fixture-384575" hreflang="en">We trust the authorities': Jurgen Klopp on safety concerns over Man Utd fixture</a><o:p></o:p>

The former Germany and Bayern Munich goalkeeper went on to emphasise that the German giants can reply to Robert Lewandowski for the main share of goals for the foreseeable future. Lewandowski has smashed 46 goals across all competitions this season after winning the UEFA Player of the Year award last term.<o:p></o:p>

"Robert still has a two-year contract here. His performances cannot be questioned. He's scored 39 goals [in the Bundesliga] so far!<o:p></o:p>

"Just for that, we don't have to think about Haaland today. Robert can keep this level for a few more years."

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Earlier this month, Haaland’s agent Mino Raiola said: "What we know as of today is that Dortmund spoke extremely solemnly to us and said: 'We are not selling him'.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p><o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

“Today, the official stance of Dortmund is this. But I've got another view, I think that if a good opportunity comes up and everyone would be happy, we'll put it on the table.”<o:p></o:p>

Bayern Munich’s future CEO and former Germany goalkeeper, Oliver Kahn has ruled out a potential summer transfer for Borussia Dortmund hot-shot Erling Haaland. Kahn said that Bayern Munich spending over 100 million Euros for a player is “unimaginable” at this time.

Bayern Munich’s future CEO and former Germany goalkeeper, Oliver Kahn has ruled out a potential summer transfer for Borussia Dortmund hot-shot Erling Haaland. Kahn said that Bayern Munich spending over 100 million Euros for a player is “unimaginable” at this time. Haaland has established himself as one of the hottest properties in world football and many top European clubs are linked with a move to sign the Norwegian forward. Bayern Munich are one of the clubs touted to sign Haaland in the summer but Kahn has claimed that they won’t be able to match the transfer fees given the turbulent financial climate of the footballing world. "Sorry, whoever spoke about that didn't understand the situation," the Bayern director, who will succeed Karl-Heinz Rummenigge as CEO later this year, told Bild. "A package that costs - as we heard - over €100m is unimaginable for FC Bayern at the moment." ALSO READ: We trust the authorities': Jurgen Klopp on safety concerns over Man Utd fixture The former Germany and Bayern Munich goalkeeper went on to emphasise that the German giants can reply to Robert Lewandowski for the main share of goals for the foreseeable future. Lewandowski has smashed 46 goals across all competitions this season after winning the UEFA Player of the Year award last term. "Robert still has a two-year contract here. His performances cannot be questioned. He's scored 39 goals [in the Bundesliga] so far! "Just for that, we don't have to think about Haaland today. Robert can keep this level for a few more years." ALSO READ: Van Dijk to skip Euro 2020 with Netherlands to focus on Liverpool return Earlier this month, Haaland’s agent Mino Raiola said: "What we know as of today is that Dortmund spoke extremely solemnly to us and said: 'We are not selling him'. “Today, the official stance of Dortmund is this. But I've got another view, I think that if a good opportunity comes up and everyone would be happy, we'll put it on the table.”

'€100 million is unimaginable': Oliver Kahn rules out Bayern Munich in race to sign Haaland

Former Australia captain Greg Chappell has said that Rahul Dravid picked the Aussie brains to build a solid domestic structure in India while recognising how India and England have surpassed Australia in terms of providing a platform for young talent.<o:p></o:p>

Chappell further said that Australia have now lost their position as the best in identifying talent and nurturing them for the biggest of stages. &nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

"I am seeing a bunch of young players with great potential who are in limbo. That's unacceptable. We cannot afford to lose one player. India have got their act together and that's largely because (India's academy chief and former Test captain) Rahul Dravid has picked our brains, seen what we're doing and replicated it in India and with their much larger population base," cricket.com.au quoted Chappell as saying.<o:p></o:p>

"I think we've already lost our position as the best at identifying talent and bringing it through. I think England are doing it better than us now and India are doing it better than us," he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/look-at-ishan-suryakumar-and-krunal-mohammad-amir-hits-out-at-pcb-selectors-384559" hreflang="en">'Look at Ishan, Suryakumar and Krunal': Mohammad Amir hits out at PCB selectors</a><o:p></o:p>

Chappell further cited how India defeated Australia earlier in the year despite having numerous first-team players injured. The former Aussie skipper, who also coached the Indian team in the mid-2000s, further said that the players coming from India A set-up are hardened international cricketers who have played in all sorts of conditions. <o:p></o:p>

"When you look at the Indian team that played in the Brisbane Test that had three or four fresh players, and everyone said, 'This is India's second XI' - those guys had played (extensively) for India A," said Chappell.<o:p></o:p>

"And in all sorts of different conditions, not just in India. So when they get picked, they're not tyros at all, they're quite hardened international cricketers. We picked Will Pucovski out of Shield cricket. Will has hardly had a game outside Australia. That's the difference," he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/siraj-has-overtaken-all-these-guys-msk-prasad-impressed-by-indian-pacer-384531" hreflang="en">'Siraj has overtaken all these guys': MSK Prasad impressed by Indian pacer</a><o:p></o:p>

Chappell further said a draft system could be a way of ensuring young players continue to get regular games.<o:p></o:p>

"We can't afford for the bigger states to warehouse kids just because they might need them at some stage. I think that's dangerous. If we were designing a structure from scratch now, we wouldn't design it the way we have got it. I think New South Wales could possibly have a second team," said Chappell.<o:p></o:p>

"We need to disperse the talent a little bit more evenly, rather than having good talent sitting on the sidelines in Victoria and New South Wales when they could be playing really well," he added.<o:p></o:p>

Former Australia captain Greg Chappell has said that Rahul Dravid picked the Aussie brains to build a solid domestic structure in India while recognising how India and England have surpassed Australia in terms of providing a platform for young talent.

Former Australia captain Greg Chappell has said that Rahul Dravid picked the Aussie brains to build a solid domestic structure in India while recognising how India and England have surpassed Australia in terms of providing a platform for young talent. Chappell further said that Australia have now lost their position as the best in identifying talent and nurturing them for the biggest of stages. "I am seeing a bunch of young players with great potential who are in limbo. That's unacceptable. We cannot afford to lose one player. India have got their act together and that's largely because (India's academy chief and former Test captain) Rahul Dravid has picked our brains, seen what we're doing and replicated it in India and with their much larger population base," cricket.com.au quoted Chappell as saying. "I think we've already lost our position as the best at identifying talent and bringing it through. I think England are doing it better than us now and India are doing it better than us," he added. ALSO READ: 'Look at Ishan, Suryakumar and Krunal': Mohammad Amir hits out at PCB selectors Chappell further cited how India defeated Australia earlier in the year despite having numerous first-team players injured. The former Aussie skipper, who also coached the Indian team in the mid-2000s, further said that the players coming from India A set-up are hardened international cricketers who have played in all sorts of conditions. "When you look at the Indian team that played in the Brisbane Test that had three or four fresh players, and everyone said, 'This is India's second XI' - those guys had played (extensively) for India A," said Chappell. "And in all sorts of different conditions, not just in India. So when they get picked, they're not tyros at all, they're quite hardened international cricketers. We picked Will Pucovski out of Shield cricket. Will has hardly had a game outside Australia. That's the difference," he added. ALSO READ: 'Siraj has overtaken all these guys': MSK Prasad impressed by Indian pacer Chappell further said a draft system could be a way of ensuring young players continue to get regular games. "We can't afford for the bigger states to warehouse kids just because they might need them at some stage. I think that's dangerous. If we were designing a structure from scratch now, we wouldn't design it the way we have got it. I think New South Wales could possibly have a second team," said Chappell. "We need to disperse the talent a little bit more evenly, rather than having good talent sitting on the sidelines in Victoria and New South Wales when they could be playing really well," he added.

Rahul Dravid picked 'Australian brains' to build India's solid domestic structure: Greg Chappell

India's javelin star Neeraj Chopra said Wednesday that the lack of international competition because of coronavirus restrictions has badly hampered preparations for his first Olympic Games.

Chopra, a farmer's son from a village outside of Delhi, became a track and field star after winning the javelin gold at the Commonwealth Games and Asian Games in 2018.

Having qualified for the Tokyo Olympics last year, he recorded a personal best of 88.07m in the Indian Grand Prix in March.

But an elbow injury in 2019 and then the pandemic have robbed him of the chance to get closer to the world's best.

"I need to compete in international tournaments," the 23-year-old told a virtual press conference.

"If we cannot take part in competitions then what is the use of training. To rise to the Olympic level, you need international exposure."

Germany's Johannes Vetter leads the current javelin rankings with a personal best of 97.76m.

"I am close to breaching the 90-metre mark and can do it if I get competition," said Chopra.&nbsp;

"The present group of seven or eight javelin throwers across the globe is the best in history with everyone recording over 90m.

"It is my first Olympics, like many others, so your confidence must be high. And we will get this confidence through these events."

Chopra and the rest of India's best athletes missed a recent trip to Turkey for training and competition due to a 14-day quarantine.

Doubts have been expressed about the viability of the Tokyo Games because of a pandemic surge in Asia, but Chopra said athletes have to keep their focus.

"We have to stay positive to prepare for the Olympics amid this negative atmosphere where there is a raging pandemic and so many people are dying," said Chopra, who received a first dose of a vaccine two weeks ago.

"We just have to keep preparing as athletes despite the uncertainty surrounding the Olympics."

India has been hit by a devastating new coronavirus wave in recent weeks, recording over 250,000 deaths as hospitals battle shortages of medical oxygen and beds.

Chopra said he has shut out news broadcasts to focus on his Olympic preparation.

"I have stopped listening to any kind of news on the mobile or TV as everywhere there are stories of Covid positive cases and deaths," he said from his room at the National Institute of Sports in Patiala.

"It plays on the mind, as even while talking to family members the talk is about deaths of distant relatives. So we are trying to stay away from this and maintain our focus."

India's javelin star Neeraj Chopra said Wednesday that the lack of international competition because of coronavirus restrictions has badly hampered preparations for his first Olympic Games.

India's javelin star Neeraj Chopra said Wednesday that the lack of international competition because of coronavirus restrictions has badly hampered preparations for his first Olympic Games. Chopra, a farmer's son from a village outside of Delhi, became a track and field star after winning the javelin gold at the Commonwealth Games and Asian Games in 2018. Having qualified for the Tokyo Olympics last year, he recorded a personal best of 88.07m in the Indian Grand Prix in March. But an elbow injury in 2019 and then the pandemic have robbed him of the chance to get closer to the world's best. "I need to compete in international tournaments," the 23-year-old told a virtual press conference. "If we cannot take part in competitions then what is the use of training. To rise to the Olympic level, you need international exposure." Germany's Johannes Vetter leads the current javelin rankings with a personal best of 97.76m. "I am close to breaching the 90-metre mark and can do it if I get competition," said Chopra. "The present group of seven or eight javelin throwers across the globe is the best in history with everyone recording over 90m. "It is my first Olympics, like many others, so your confidence must be high. And we will get this confidence through these events." Chopra and the rest of India's best athletes missed a recent trip to Turkey for training and competition due to a 14-day quarantine. Doubts have been expressed about the viability of the Tokyo Games because of a pandemic surge in Asia, but Chopra said athletes have to keep their focus. "We have to stay positive to prepare for the Olympics amid this negative atmosphere where there is a raging pandemic and so many people are dying," said Chopra, who received a first dose of a vaccine two weeks ago. "We just have to keep preparing as athletes despite the uncertainty surrounding the Olympics." India has been hit by a devastating new coronavirus wave in recent weeks, recording over 250,000 deaths as hospitals battle shortages of medical oxygen and beds. Chopra said he has shut out news broadcasts to focus on his Olympic preparation. "I have stopped listening to any kind of news on the mobile or TV as everywhere there are stories of Covid positive cases and deaths," he said from his room at the National Institute of Sports in Patiala. "It plays on the mind, as even while talking to family members the talk is about deaths of distant relatives. So we are trying to stay away from this and maintain our focus."

India's Neeraj Chopra says virus restrictions hit Olympic hopes

Ace Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk has ruled himself out of the Euro 2020 to be fit for the start of the Premier League season 2021-22. The development comes as a huge blow to the Netherlands squad, who will now miss the center-back for the marquee tournament, scheduled later in the year.<o:p></o:p>

Van Dijk, the skipper of the Netherlands, has been out of action for seven months after undergoing surgery on a ruptured cruciate ligament in his right knee.<o:p></o:p>

The Dutch brute admitted to being in a “bad place” at the start of his recovery process but added he is now more positive about returning to light running. <o:p></o:p>

"I've just progressed nicely," he told Liverpool's website. "In this latest stage for myself, I have come to a decision that I had to make -- would I be involved in the Euros, yes or no?

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"With everything that is going on, I feel physically it is the right decision that I've decided not to go to the Euros and to go into my last phase of rehab during the off-season.<o:p></o:p>

"So the full focus will be on pre-season with the club and that's a realistic goal, so I am looking forward to that."<o:p></o:p>

Van Dijk further said he was “gutted” to be missing the delayed Euro 2020, which starts in June, but was at peace with the call. <o:p></o:p>

"The surgeon is very happy with everything that is going on and, as I said, the good thing is I've not really had a setback so far and hopefully that will not happen," he added.

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Notably, Van Dijk would be 31 before he can make his major tournament debut in the international circuit. <o:p></o:p>

"I think this decision has definitely been the right one, in my opinion, to give my body and my knee a little bit more extra time to get ready for hopefully a big, big 18 months at least with the club but also with my country because we're trying to go to the next tournament after this as well and that starts in September," he said.<o:p></o:p>

He added: "Obviously I want to be back out there, I want to be helping my team-mates, helping my country in this case and I obviously want to help the club, but I think it's the right thing to do to stay a little bit more patient and work even harder during the off-season and get ready."<o:p></o:p>

Ace Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk has ruled himself out of the Euro 2020 to be fit for the start of the Premier League season 2021-22. The development comes as a huge blow to the Netherlands squad, who will now miss the center-back for the marquee tournament, scheduled later in the year.

Ace Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk has ruled himself out of the Euro 2020 to be fit for the start of the Premier League season 2021-22. The development comes as a huge blow to the Netherlands squad, who will now miss the center-back for the marquee tournament, scheduled later in the year. Van Dijk, the skipper of the Netherlands, has been out of action for seven months after undergoing surgery on a ruptured cruciate ligament in his right knee. The Dutch brute admitted to being in a “bad place” at the start of his recovery process but added he is now more positive about returning to light running. "I've just progressed nicely," he told Liverpool's website. "In this latest stage for myself, I have come to a decision that I had to make -- would I be involved in the Euros, yes or no? ALSO READ: UEFA conducts disciplinary investigation against remaining clubs in European Super League "With everything that is going on, I feel physically it is the right decision that I've decided not to go to the Euros and to go into my last phase of rehab during the off-season. "So the full focus will be on pre-season with the club and that's a realistic goal, so I am looking forward to that." Van Dijk further said he was “gutted” to be missing the delayed Euro 2020, which starts in June, but was at peace with the call. "The surgeon is very happy with everything that is going on and, as I said, the good thing is I've not really had a setback so far and hopefully that will not happen," he added. ALSO READ: 'CHAMPIONS': Manchester City fans take to streets after Premier League win Notably, Van Dijk would be 31 before he can make his major tournament debut in the international circuit. "I think this decision has definitely been the right one, in my opinion, to give my body and my knee a little bit more extra time to get ready for hopefully a big, big 18 months at least with the club but also with my country because we're trying to go to the next tournament after this as well and that starts in September," he said. He added: "Obviously I want to be back out there, I want to be helping my team-mates, helping my country in this case and I obviously want to help the club, but I think it's the right thing to do to stay a little bit more patient and work even harder during the off-season and get ready."

Van Dijk to skip Euro 2020 with Netherlands to focus on Liverpool return

Sunrisers Hyderabad and India wicket-keeper Wriddhiman Saha has opened up on his fight against COVID-19 after getting infected with the dreaded virus during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. Saha tested positive for COVID-19 after two Kolkata Knight Riders returned positive – the same day IPL 2021 was postponed indefinitely.<o:p></o:p>

Saha said that he was tested twice after feeling tired and complaining of cold but both the reports came negative. He underwent another test after getting a fever and the report returned positive. <o:p></o:p>

“I felt tired after finishing the practice on the first day of May. I felt cold. Cold &amp; mild cough. I informed the team doctor that day. Arrangements were made for me to stay in seclusion without any risk,” Saha told Anandbazar Patrika.<o:p></o:p>

“Covid test was taken on the same day. The next day the report came negative. The second day I was also tested. The result was negative. Yet I was not allowed to leave the seclusion. Because by then fever had started coming. After the test on the third day, the result was positive,” Saha added.

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The veteran cricketer further revealed that he felt scared along with his family given the present situation surrounding the virus in India.<o:p></o:p>

“I was certainly scared,” Saha said. “A virus that has brought the Earth to a standstill, after being infected by it, I was bound to feel scared. Everyone in the family was very worried. We reassured them through video calls that there is no reason to be afraid. I am being taken care of enough.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/revealed-how-much-australian-players-will-earn-if-they-dont-return-for-ipl-2021-384487" hreflang="en">Revealed: How much Australian players will earn if they don't return for IPL 2021</a>

Saha further revealed that he is on the road to recovery and is improving with each passing day.<o:p></o:p>

“There is no more discomfort in the body. The fever is not coming. Colds and coughs have also decreased. It goes without saying that there is no pain in the body. I don’t understand if there is fatigue at all. As long as I don’t start practicing, it is not possible to understand. I want to tell the supporters, don’t worry. I’m almost healthy,” Saha said.<o:p></o:p>

Saha has been named in the India squad for the World Test Championship final and England series pending a fitness test.<o:p></o:p>

Sunrisers Hyderabad and India wicket-keeper Wriddhiman Saha has opened up on his fight against COVID-19 after getting infected with the dreaded virus during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021.

Sunrisers Hyderabad and India wicket-keeper Wriddhiman Saha has opened up on his fight against COVID-19 after getting infected with the dreaded virus during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. Saha tested positive for COVID-19 after two Kolkata Knight Riders returned positive – the same day IPL 2021 was postponed indefinitely. Saha said that he was tested twice after feeling tired and complaining of cold but both the reports came negative. He underwent another test after getting a fever and the report returned positive. “I felt tired after finishing the practice on the first day of May. I felt cold. Cold & mild cough. I informed the team doctor that day. Arrangements were made for me to stay in seclusion without any risk,” Saha told Anandbazar Patrika. “Covid test was taken on the same day. The next day the report came negative. The second day I was also tested. The result was negative. Yet I was not allowed to leave the seclusion. Because by then fever had started coming. After the test on the third day, the result was positive,” Saha added. ALSO READ: If England players stand together, they will play in IPL 2021: Kevin Pietersen The veteran cricketer further revealed that he felt scared along with his family given the present situation surrounding the virus in India. “I was certainly scared,” Saha said. “A virus that has brought the Earth to a standstill, after being infected by it, I was bound to feel scared. Everyone in the family was very worried. We reassured them through video calls that there is no reason to be afraid. I am being taken care of enough.” ALSO READ: Revealed: How much Australian players will earn if they don't return for IPL 2021 Saha further revealed that he is on the road to recovery and is improving with each passing day. “There is no more discomfort in the body. The fever is not coming. Colds and coughs have also decreased. It goes without saying that there is no pain in the body. I don’t understand if there is fatigue at all. As long as I don’t start practicing, it is not possible to understand. I want to tell the supporters, don’t worry. I’m almost healthy,” Saha said. Saha has been named in the India squad for the World Test Championship final and England series pending a fitness test.

'Was certainly scared': Wriddhiman Saha openes up on his battle with COVID-19

There are plenty of talks surrounding the postponed Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 when it comes to the availability of overseas players if the T20 tournament resumes later in the year. While managing director of England men’s team, Ashley Giles had hinted that English players might not be available for the remainder of IPL 2021, former skipper Kevin Pietersen feels England players can play in IPL 2021 if they stand together.<o:p></o:p>

The BCCI and IPL Governing Council in an emergency meeting had unanimously decided to postpone IPL 2021 last week and is now working on finding a window for the remainder of the tournament. While BCCI president Sourav Ganguly has already said that it won’t be possible to conduct IPL 2021 in India this year considering the COVID-19 situation in the country, the likes of Sri Lanka, UAE and England have emerged as potential venues.<o:p></o:p>

Taking to social media platform Kevin Pietersen said that it would be interesting to see how the ECB handle the issue and not allow its best players for IPL 2021 while adding if the players stand together, they will go on to play in the remainder of the tournament.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/revealed-how-much-australian-players-will-earn-if-they-dont-return-for-ipl-2021-384487" hreflang="en">Revealed: How much Australian players will earn if they don't return for IPL 2021</a><o:p></o:p>

"It's going to be v interesting to watch how the ECB handle this issue around not allowing its best players to play IPL if it's rescheduled. When I went up against ENG, I was alone. This time, it's all their best-branded players! If they stand together, they'll play IPL," Pietersen tweeted.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
It’s going to be v interesting to watch how the ECB handle this issue around not allowing it’s best players to play IPL, if it’s rescheduled. 
When I went up against ENG, I was alone. 
This time, it’s all their best branded players! 
If they stand together, they’ll play IPL!
— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) <a href="https://twitter.com/KP24/status/1392395680853991427?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 12, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/what-is-going-on-kuldeep-yadav-talks-about-his-thoughts-after-being-benched-384481" hreflang="en">'What is going on?': Kuldeep Yadav talks about his thoughts after being benched</a>

IPL 2021 was indefinitely postponed after multiple cases of COVID-19 emerged inside the bio-secure bubble. While there has been no reports of breach of the bubble, reports have pointed towards travelling to be one of the potential reasons for players and staff contracting the dreaded virus.<o:p></o:p>

There are plenty of talks surrounding the postponed Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 when it comes to the availability of overseas players if the T20 tournament resumes later in the year.

There are plenty of talks surrounding the postponed Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 when it comes to the availability of overseas players if the T20 tournament resumes later in the year. While managing director of England men’s team, Ashley Giles had hinted that English players might not be available for the remainder of IPL 2021, former skipper Kevin Pietersen feels England players can play in IPL 2021 if they stand together. The BCCI and IPL Governing Council in an emergency meeting had unanimously decided to postpone IPL 2021 last week and is now working on finding a window for the remainder of the tournament. While BCCI president Sourav Ganguly has already said that it won’t be possible to conduct IPL 2021 in India this year considering the COVID-19 situation in the country, the likes of Sri Lanka, UAE and England have emerged as potential venues. Taking to social media platform Kevin Pietersen said that it would be interesting to see how the ECB handle the issue and not allow its best players for IPL 2021 while adding if the players stand together, they will go on to play in the remainder of the tournament. ALSO READ: Revealed: How much Australian players will earn if they don't return for IPL 2021 "It's going to be v interesting to watch how the ECB handle this issue around not allowing its best players to play IPL if it's rescheduled. When I went up against ENG, I was alone. This time, it's all their best-branded players! If they stand together, they'll play IPL," Pietersen tweeted. It’s going to be v interesting to watch how the ECB handle this issue around not allowing it’s best players to play IPL, if it’s rescheduled. When I went up against ENG, I was alone. This time, it’s all their best branded players! If they stand together, they’ll play IPL! — Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) May 12, 2021 × ALSO READ: 'What is going on?': Kuldeep Yadav talks about his thoughts after being benched IPL 2021 was indefinitely postponed after multiple cases of COVID-19 emerged inside the bio-secure bubble. While there has been no reports of breach of the bubble, reports have pointed towards travelling to be one of the potential reasons for players and staff contracting the dreaded virus.

If England players stand together, they will play in IPL 2021: Kevin Pietersen

There are many doubts on how much the Australian players will earn should they decide to not participate in the postponed Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 when it resumes. While the international calendar doesn’t really permit a window for IPL 2021 to resume, the BCCI is working on finding a slot to finish the suspended T20 tournament. <o:p></o:p>

Many big-name players such as David Warner, Pat Cummins, Glenn Maxwell among many others participated in IPL 2021 but it is still not clear whether they would be returning to play the IPL 2021 when it resumes. <o:p></o:p>

According to Fox Sports, Insurance policies taken out by the IPL 2021 should ensure Australian players get close to $18 million in payments with many set to be unavailable if the postponed T20 tournament resumes later in the year.<o:p></o:p>

While the UAE, Sri Lanka and even England have been pipped as potential venues to resume the IPL 2021, there is only one small window – a six-week period before the T20 World Cup – to play the tournament.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-showed-guts-and-character-bcci-chief-sourav-ganguly-lauds-rishabh-pant-384459" hreflang="en">'He showed guts and character': BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly lauds Rishabh Pant</a><o:p></o:p>

England have already announced that they will ask players to prioritise country over IPL and the same is expected from Australia. <o:p></o:p>

Australia are scheduled to tour the West Indies in June and July before locking horns with Sri Lanka at home in the build-up to the T20 World Cup. However, some players like Chris Lynn and Nathan Coulter-Nile could return to play the IPL 2021.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-and-rohits-intensity-in-training-execution-perfect-lesson-abhimanyu-easwaran-384338" hreflang="en">Virat and Rohit's intensity in training, execution perfect lesson: Abhimanyu Easwaran</a>

Andrew Tye, Adam Zampa and Kane Richardson all left the IPL 2021 bubble, foregoing any owed payments.<o:p></o:p>

There are many doubts on how much the Australian players will earn should they decide to not participate in the postponed Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 when it resumes.

There are many doubts on how much the Australian players will earn should they decide to not participate in the postponed Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 when it resumes. While the international calendar doesn’t really permit a window for IPL 2021 to resume, the BCCI is working on finding a slot to finish the suspended T20 tournament. Many big-name players such as David Warner, Pat Cummins, Glenn Maxwell among many others participated in IPL 2021 but it is still not clear whether they would be returning to play the IPL 2021 when it resumes. According to Fox Sports, Insurance policies taken out by the IPL 2021 should ensure Australian players get close to $18 million in payments with many set to be unavailable if the postponed T20 tournament resumes later in the year. While the UAE, Sri Lanka and even England have been pipped as potential venues to resume the IPL 2021, there is only one small window – a six-week period before the T20 World Cup – to play the tournament. ALSO READ: 'He showed guts and character': BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly lauds Rishabh Pant England have already announced that they will ask players to prioritise country over IPL and the same is expected from Australia. Australia are scheduled to tour the West Indies in June and July before locking horns with Sri Lanka at home in the build-up to the T20 World Cup. However, some players like Chris Lynn and Nathan Coulter-Nile could return to play the IPL 2021. ALSO READ: Virat and Rohit's intensity in training, execution perfect lesson: Abhimanyu Easwaran Andrew Tye, Adam Zampa and Kane Richardson all left the IPL 2021 bubble, foregoing any owed payments.

Revealed: How much Australian players will earn if they don't return for IPL 2021

New Zealand wicketkeeper BJ Watling has announced he will retire from all cricket following next month's World Test Championship final against India in England.

The 35-year-old will call time on a career of 73 Tests and 28 one-day internationals following a two-match Test series against England and the inaugural WTC final at Hampshire's Southampton headquarters.

"The time is right," said Watling in a New Zealand cricket statement issued Wednesday.

"It's been a huge honour to represent New Zealand and in particular wear the Test baggy."

South Africa-born Watling, who moved to New Zealand as a 10-year-old, has taken 259 catches and completed eight stumpings in Tests, as well as being an effective batsman with 3,773 runs at an average of over 38, including eight hundreds, in the five-day game.

But Watling, who recently became a father for the second time, said bowing out next month was the correct decision.

"It's the right time," he said. "It's been a huge honour to represent New Zealand and in particular wear the Test baggy (cap).&nbsp;

"Test cricket really is the pinnacle of the game and I've loved every minute of being out there in the whites with the boys.

He added: "Sitting in the changing rooms having a beer with the team after five days' toil is what I'll miss the most."

Watling, looking ahead to the Blackcaps trip to Britain, said: "Although I've had to make this announcement ahead of the tour to England, my focus is very much on the three Tests ahead and preparing to perform in them.

"This tour will be a challenge on a few levels and we know as a team we will need to be at the very top of our game if we want to succeed."

New Zealand wicketkeeper BJ Watling has announced he will retire from all cricket following next month's World Test Championship final against India in England. The 35-year-old will call time on a career of 73 Tests and 28 one-day internationals following a two-match Test series against England and the inaugural WTC final at Hampshire's Southampton headquarters.

New Zealand wicketkeeper BJ Watling has announced he will retire from all cricket following next month's World Test Championship final against India in England. The 35-year-old will call time on a career of 73 Tests and 28 one-day internationals following a two-match Test series against England and the inaugural WTC final at Hampshire's Southampton headquarters. "The time is right," said Watling in a New Zealand cricket statement issued Wednesday. "It's been a huge honour to represent New Zealand and in particular wear the Test baggy." South Africa-born Watling, who moved to New Zealand as a 10-year-old, has taken 259 catches and completed eight stumpings in Tests, as well as being an effective batsman with 3,773 runs at an average of over 38, including eight hundreds, in the five-day game. But Watling, who recently became a father for the second time, said bowing out next month was the correct decision. "It's the right time," he said. "It's been a huge honour to represent New Zealand and in particular wear the Test baggy (cap). "Test cricket really is the pinnacle of the game and I've loved every minute of being out there in the whites with the boys. He added: "Sitting in the changing rooms having a beer with the team after five days' toil is what I'll miss the most." Watling, looking ahead to the Blackcaps trip to Britain, said: "Although I've had to make this announcement ahead of the tour to England, my focus is very much on the three Tests ahead and preparing to perform in them. "This tour will be a challenge on a few levels and we know as a team we will need to be at the very top of our game if we want to succeed."

New Zealand's Watling to retire after India final

World number one&nbsp;Novak Djokovic overcame a "strange" lengthy rain delay to beat&nbsp; American Taylor Fritz 6-3, 7-6 (7/5) to reach the third round of the Italian Open on Tuesday.

Title holder Djokovic waited three hours to finish off the match despite Fritz's efforts in the second set.

"It was a really strange match, to play in the rain, it was difficult," the Serb said.

"It possibly helped me because the play was slower, and he has a good serve. He played really well.

"In these circumstances, you don't know how much time it will go on for. If you have to eat, rest, or not. You have to do what feels best for you," he added.

Djokovic, 33, playing his second tournament since winning his ninth Australian Open in February, will play Cameron Norrie or Alejandro Davidovich for a place in the quarter-finals.

Elsewhere, Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime beat last year's runner up Diego Schwartzman 6-1, 6-3 and will face either Federico Delbonis or David Goffin, who meet early on Wednesday.

Earlier, sixteenth seed Grigor Dimitrov crashed out in the first round when he was beaten in straight sets by Spanish qualifier Alejandro Davidovich Fokina.

The world number 48 saved two set points in the second set as he dismissed the 2014 semi-finalist Dimitrov 6-4, 7-6 (7/2) to win in one hour and 43 minutes.

Tenth seed Roberto Bautista Agut booked his place in the second round with a comfortable 6-3, 6-4 win over American Tommy Paul.

On the women's side, Argentinian Nadia Podoroska, ranked 44 in the world, assured herself of a second round meeting with Serena Williams, playing her first event since the Australian Open, when she came from a set down to beat German Laura Siegemund 2-6, 7-6 (7/3), 6-1.

Madison Keys won the battle of the Americans when she overcame Sloane Stephens 4-6, 6-2, 7-5.

World number one Novak Djokovic overcame a "strange" lengthy rain delay to beat American Taylor Fritz 6-3, 7-6 (7/5) to reach the third round of the Italian Open on Tuesday.

World number one Novak Djokovic overcame a "strange" lengthy rain delay to beat American Taylor Fritz 6-3, 7-6 (7/5) to reach the third round of the Italian Open on Tuesday. Title holder Djokovic waited three hours to finish off the match despite Fritz's efforts in the second set. "It was a really strange match, to play in the rain, it was difficult," the Serb said. "It possibly helped me because the play was slower, and he has a good serve. He played really well. "In these circumstances, you don't know how much time it will go on for. If you have to eat, rest, or not. You have to do what feels best for you," he added. Djokovic, 33, playing his second tournament since winning his ninth Australian Open in February, will play Cameron Norrie or Alejandro Davidovich for a place in the quarter-finals. Elsewhere, Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime beat last year's runner up Diego Schwartzman 6-1, 6-3 and will face either Federico Delbonis or David Goffin, who meet early on Wednesday. Earlier, sixteenth seed Grigor Dimitrov crashed out in the first round when he was beaten in straight sets by Spanish qualifier Alejandro Davidovich Fokina. The world number 48 saved two set points in the second set as he dismissed the 2014 semi-finalist Dimitrov 6-4, 7-6 (7/2) to win in one hour and 43 minutes. Tenth seed Roberto Bautista Agut booked his place in the second round with a comfortable 6-3, 6-4 win over American Tommy Paul. On the women's side, Argentinian Nadia Podoroska, ranked 44 in the world, assured herself of a second round meeting with Serena Williams, playing her first event since the Australian Open, when she came from a set down to beat German Laura Siegemund 2-6, 7-6 (7/3), 6-1. Madison Keys won the battle of the Americans when she overcame Sloane Stephens 4-6, 6-2, 7-5.

Djokovic overcomes 'strange' three-hour rain break to advance in Rome

Lionel Messi scored a brilliant volley but Barcelona's title hopes could be over, with a 3-3 draw away at Levante on Tuesday giving Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid the chance to pull away at the top of La Liga.&nbsp;

Another slip could prove decisive given Atletico will move four points clear of Barca with two games left if they can win away at Real Sociedad on Wednesday. Real Madrid will edge two points ahead of Ronald Koeman's side if they win away on Thursday at Granada.&nbsp;

There are certainly no guarantees in what has been a frenetic and thrilling title race in recent weeks, with all of Spain's four contenders stumbling down the final stretch.&nbsp;

But with only two games left now and potentially two teams to catch, Barcelona's chances of taking the title off Real Madrid this season would appear remote.

"We were always depending on other results but the objective was to win our three games and hope others dropped points," said Koeman. "Now it's very complicated."&nbsp;

Levante sit 14th in the table and had won only one of their previous eight matches but they had also prevailed in three of their last four games at home against Barca, and they turned it on again.&nbsp;

Barcelona led 2-0 from Messi's acrobatic strike and a simple Pedri finish but two goals in two minutes before the hour suddenly had Levante level, Gonzalo Melero and Jose Luis Morales giving Levante hope.&nbsp;

Ousmane Dembele pulled the visitors ahead again but again they squandered the advantage, Sergio Leon diverting in at the near post and this time there was no way back.&nbsp;

"We lowered our intensity from the start of the second half, lost our rhythm," said Koeman. "We weren't defensively attentive and we let Levante back in. There is no other explanation."

"Our chances are slim," added Sergio Busquets. "And that's our fault - our decisions, our concentration - we give away easy goals."

Koeman has made positive strides this season but his team's lapses of concentration and fragility in defence remain.&nbsp;

Questions around the Dutchman's future will grow louder the more the club's title chances fade, his decisions this time to start Dembele at right wing-back and to bring Sergi Roberto into the back three particularly vulnerable to scrutiny.

"Coaches will always be questioned, that isn't going to change but with that second half there will be questions asked and I understand that perfectly," said Koeman.

Barcelona had scored twice in nine minutes to take control, Jordi Alba's cross grazing the head of Miramon on its way to Messi, who adjusted his body and threw his left foot over the ball, volleying it into the bottom corner for his 37th goal of the season.&nbsp;

Messi instigated the second too, freeing the sprinting Dembele down the right, who powered past Oscar Duarte and prodded back just in time for Pedri to finish.&nbsp;

Barca were in charge but Levante always looked a threat on the break and made it pay with two goals in two minutes before the hour.&nbsp;

First, Melero nipped in front of Sergi Roberto to head in and then a sloppy Messi touch allowed Morales to bounce the ball off Roger Marti, before volleying brilliantly into the far corner.&nbsp;

Parity lasted only five minutes, though, as Barcelona came again.&nbsp;

Messi on the turn was able to slide a pass into Antoine Griezmann and while he was challenged, the ball spilled right to Dembele, who took a touch and lashed into the top corner.&nbsp;

Barca were ahead again but they always looked vulnerable and with seven minutes left, Levante struck.&nbsp;

Sergino Dest was put on the floor by Tono down the left and his cross was turned in by Sergio Leon, who beat Gerard Pique at the near post. Barca had no answer.&nbsp;

Lionel Messi scored a brilliant volley but Barcelona's title hopes could be over, with a 3-3 draw away at Levante on Tuesday giving Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid the chance to pull away at the top of La Liga.

Lionel Messi scored a brilliant volley but Barcelona's title hopes could be over, with a 3-3 draw away at Levante on Tuesday giving Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid the chance to pull away at the top of La Liga. Another slip could prove decisive given Atletico will move four points clear of Barca with two games left if they can win away at Real Sociedad on Wednesday. Real Madrid will edge two points ahead of Ronald Koeman's side if they win away on Thursday at Granada. There are certainly no guarantees in what has been a frenetic and thrilling title race in recent weeks, with all of Spain's four contenders stumbling down the final stretch. But with only two games left now and potentially two teams to catch, Barcelona's chances of taking the title off Real Madrid this season would appear remote. "We were always depending on other results but the objective was to win our three games and hope others dropped points," said Koeman. "Now it's very complicated." Levante sit 14th in the table and had won only one of their previous eight matches but they had also prevailed in three of their last four games at home against Barca, and they turned it on again. Barcelona led 2-0 from Messi's acrobatic strike and a simple Pedri finish but two goals in two minutes before the hour suddenly had Levante level, Gonzalo Melero and Jose Luis Morales giving Levante hope. Ousmane Dembele pulled the visitors ahead again but again they squandered the advantage, Sergio Leon diverting in at the near post and this time there was no way back. "We lowered our intensity from the start of the second half, lost our rhythm," said Koeman. "We weren't defensively attentive and we let Levante back in. There is no other explanation." "Our chances are slim," added Sergio Busquets. "And that's our fault - our decisions, our concentration - we give away easy goals." Koeman has made positive strides this season but his team's lapses of concentration and fragility in defence remain. Questions around the Dutchman's future will grow louder the more the club's title chances fade, his decisions this time to start Dembele at right wing-back and to bring Sergi Roberto into the back three particularly vulnerable to scrutiny. "Coaches will always be questioned, that isn't going to change but with that second half there will be questions asked and I understand that perfectly," said Koeman. Barcelona had scored twice in nine minutes to take control, Jordi Alba's cross grazing the head of Miramon on its way to Messi, who adjusted his body and threw his left foot over the ball, volleying it into the bottom corner for his 37th goal of the season. Messi instigated the second too, freeing the sprinting Dembele down the right, who powered past Oscar Duarte and prodded back just in time for Pedri to finish. Barca were in charge but Levante always looked a threat on the break and made it pay with two goals in two minutes before the hour. First, Melero nipped in front of Sergi Roberto to head in and then a sloppy Messi touch allowed Morales to bounce the ball off Roger Marti, before volleying brilliantly into the far corner. Parity lasted only five minutes, though, as Barcelona came again. Messi on the turn was able to slide a pass into Antoine Griezmann and while he was challenged, the ball spilled right to Dembele, who took a touch and lashed into the top corner. Barca were ahead again but they always looked vulnerable and with seven minutes left, Levante struck. Sergino Dest was put on the floor by Tono down the left and his cross was turned in by Sergio Leon, who beat Gerard Pique at the near post. Barca had no answer.

Barca title hopes hanging by a thread after Levante draw

Pep Guardiola's deft introduction of a new generation at Manchester City inspired their latest Premier League title triumph, laying the foundations for a burgeoning dynasty at the Etihad Stadium.

Guardiola's side were crowned English champions for the third time in four seasons after Manchester United were beaten 2-1 by Leicester on Tuesday.

City have sealed the silverware with three games to spare, regaining the trophy they were forced to surrender to Liverpool last season.

Their return to the summit is a tribute to Guardiola's clever reshuffle of a squad that lost several important figures in recent seasons

Vincent Kompany, Yaya Toure and David Silva all left the Etihad Stadium over the last four years after establishing themselves among the most influential players in City history.

Even this season, City's record goalscorer Sergio Aguero has been phased out and will leave in the summer.

But rather than let the departure of the old guard serve as a death knell for City's ambitions, Guardiola has transitioned to a new crop of stars capable of keeping his side on top for years to come.

Ruben Dias, Phil Foden and Joao Cancelo have emerged to play leading roles this season, supplementing core components Kevin De Bruyne, Kyle Walker, Bernardo Silva, Riyad Mahrez and Ederson.

Dias has been the most important addition as the Portugal centre-back proved the perfect replacement for Kompany.

Signed from Benfica in September, the 23-year-old adapted seamlessly to the Premier League, adding physicality and leadership that brought the best out of John Stones at a time when the England defender was in danger of squandering his potential.

England playmaker Foden has long been earmarked as a future star and the 20-year-old is living up to the hype at last after a breakthrough season.

Cancelo's dynamic bursts from right or left back allowed City to out-number opponents in attacking areas, providing Guardiola with a big pay-off for keeping faith with the 26-year-old after an underwhelming first season following his move from Juventus.

Ilkay Gundogan's late flowering at age 30 has been an added bonus for Guardiola as the German midfielder's superb form and glut of goals covered for De Bruyne's various injury problems and a low-key year for Raheem Sterling.

<h2>- Defining moment -</h2>

Most encouragingly for Guardiola, only Walker and Gundogan have hit 30, giving him a group capable of a dynastic reign.

While the changing of the guard is well underway, ironically it was one of City's senior citizens who played a vital part in their revival from an uneven first half of the season.

When City were held to a 1-1 draw by lowly West Bromwich Albion on December 15, Guardiola admitted "I don't like this team, I don't like the way we play."

Days later, the City boss was still brooding and a lethargic training session on New Year's Eve convinced him to call on Brazilian veteran Fernandinho for help.

Fernandinho, 35, has been City's captain this season and Guardiola urged him to tell his team-mates their efforts were not acceptable.

"After that session, Pep came and spoke to me as captain, as the leader of the team. He was blunt. He told me that not everyone was at 100 percent. And, in this team, when you come to train, you do it at 100 percent, or you stay home. There is no negotiation," Fernandinho told the Players' Tribune.

"I arrived at the ground the next morning ahead of training, and I said, 'Tell Pep we'll start training a little later today.' It was an emergency.

"Once we got everyone together, I spoke openly. I spoke as captain. I told them what Pep had told me, that some things are inexcusable. We needed to be shaken."

It was a defining moment as City put Chelsea to the sword in their next match and haven't looked back.

"Our next game was away at Chelsea. Before the match, I thought to myself, 'If these guys don't run here, that's it, I'm done!' I was ready to lose all morale," Fernandinho said.

"But, of course, we won. Thank God, since then we've been on an amazing, record-breaking run."

Ominously for City's title rivals, Fernandinho believes the desire for more success burns as bright as ever in the new generation.

"The most important thing is when you win titles and trophies, you get that hunger to win even more. That's what we have here," he said.

Pep Guardiola's deft introduction of a new generation at Manchester City inspired their latest Premier League title triumph, laying the foundations for a burgeoning dynasty at the Etihad Stadium.

Pep Guardiola's deft introduction of a new generation at Manchester City inspired their latest Premier League title triumph, laying the foundations for a burgeoning dynasty at the Etihad Stadium. Guardiola's side were crowned English champions for the third time in four seasons after Manchester United were beaten 2-1 by Leicester on Tuesday. City have sealed the silverware with three games to spare, regaining the trophy they were forced to surrender to Liverpool last season. Their return to the summit is a tribute to Guardiola's clever reshuffle of a squad that lost several important figures in recent seasons Vincent Kompany, Yaya Toure and David Silva all left the Etihad Stadium over the last four years after establishing themselves among the most influential players in City history. Even this season, City's record goalscorer Sergio Aguero has been phased out and will leave in the summer. But rather than let the departure of the old guard serve as a death knell for City's ambitions, Guardiola has transitioned to a new crop of stars capable of keeping his side on top for years to come. Ruben Dias, Phil Foden and Joao Cancelo have emerged to play leading roles this season, supplementing core components Kevin De Bruyne, Kyle Walker, Bernardo Silva, Riyad Mahrez and Ederson. Dias has been the most important addition as the Portugal centre-back proved the perfect replacement for Kompany. Signed from Benfica in September, the 23-year-old adapted seamlessly to the Premier League, adding physicality and leadership that brought the best out of John Stones at a time when the England defender was in danger of squandering his potential. England playmaker Foden has long been earmarked as a future star and the 20-year-old is living up to the hype at last after a breakthrough season. Cancelo's dynamic bursts from right or left back allowed City to out-number opponents in attacking areas, providing Guardiola with a big pay-off for keeping faith with the 26-year-old after an underwhelming first season following his move from Juventus. Ilkay Gundogan's late flowering at age 30 has been an added bonus for Guardiola as the German midfielder's superb form and glut of goals covered for De Bruyne's various injury problems and a low-key year for Raheem Sterling. - Defining moment - Most encouragingly for Guardiola, only Walker and Gundogan have hit 30, giving him a group capable of a dynastic reign. While the changing of the guard is well underway, ironically it was one of City's senior citizens who played a vital part in their revival from an uneven first half of the season. When City were held to a 1-1 draw by lowly West Bromwich Albion on December 15, Guardiola admitted "I don't like this team, I don't like the way we play." Days later, the City boss was still brooding and a lethargic training session on New Year's Eve convinced him to call on Brazilian veteran Fernandinho for help. Fernandinho, 35, has been City's captain this season and Guardiola urged him to tell his team-mates their efforts were not acceptable. "After that session, Pep came and spoke to me as captain, as the leader of the team. He was blunt. He told me that not everyone was at 100 percent. And, in this team, when you come to train, you do it at 100 percent, or you stay home. There is no negotiation," Fernandinho told the Players' Tribune. "I arrived at the ground the next morning ahead of training, and I said, 'Tell Pep we'll start training a little later today.' It was an emergency. "Once we got everyone together, I spoke openly. I spoke as captain. I told them what Pep had told me, that some things are inexcusable. We needed to be shaken." It was a defining moment as City put Chelsea to the sword in their next match and haven't looked back. "Our next game was away at Chelsea. Before the match, I thought to myself, 'If these guys don't run here, that's it, I'm done!' I was ready to lose all morale," Fernandinho said. "But, of course, we won. Thank God, since then we've been on an amazing, record-breaking run." Ominously for City's title rivals, Fernandinho believes the desire for more success burns as bright as ever in the new generation. "The most important thing is when you win titles and trophies, you get that hunger to win even more. That's what we have here," he said.

Man City's new generation lay foundation for golden era

Two-time Olympic champion Rafael Nadal on Tuesday became the latest top tennis player to admit that he had not yet decided whether he would participate in the Tokyo Games this summer, still giving himself time to decide according to "circumstances".

The 34-year-old Spaniard won gold in the singles in Beijing in 2008, adding another gold in the doubles with Marc Lopez in Rio de Janeiro five years ago.

"In a normal world I would never consider missing the Olympics. There is no doubt about that," he said at a press conference ahead of his opening match at the Italian Open.

"Everybody knows how important the Olympics are for me.

"Under these circumstances, I don't know. Let's see what's going on in the next couple of months. But I need to organise my schedule.&nbsp;

"I don't know yet. Honestly I can't give you a clear answer because I don't know.&nbsp;

"In a normal year, I know my schedule almost 100 percent from January 1 until the end of the season. This year is a little bit different, no?

"We need to be flexible. We need to adapt to the things that are happening. I don't know, I can't give you an accurate answer. Sorry."

Nadal is the latest top tennis star to voice his concerns about the Tokyo Games.&nbsp;

On Monday, Serena Williams said she was undecided about going to the Olympics while Japanese stars Naomi Osaka and Kei Nishikori have both raised concerns about whether Tokyo should be hosting the Games at all.

"I'm an athlete, and of course my immediate thought is that I want to play in the Olympics," Osaka told the BBC.

"But as a human, I would say we're in a pandemic, and if people aren't healthy, and if they're not feeling safe, then it's definitely a really big cause for concern."

The Olympics, postponed from 2020 because of the coronavirus, are due to run from July 23 to August 8.

Two-time Olympic champion Rafael Nadal on Tuesday became the latest top tennis player to admit that he had not yet decided whether he would participate in the Tokyo Games this summer, still giving himself time to decide according to "circumstances".

Two-time Olympic champion Rafael Nadal on Tuesday became the latest top tennis player to admit that he had not yet decided whether he would participate in the Tokyo Games this summer, still giving himself time to decide according to "circumstances". The 34-year-old Spaniard won gold in the singles in Beijing in 2008, adding another gold in the doubles with Marc Lopez in Rio de Janeiro five years ago. "In a normal world I would never consider missing the Olympics. There is no doubt about that," he said at a press conference ahead of his opening match at the Italian Open. "Everybody knows how important the Olympics are for me. "Under these circumstances, I don't know. Let's see what's going on in the next couple of months. But I need to organise my schedule. "I don't know yet. Honestly I can't give you a clear answer because I don't know. "In a normal year, I know my schedule almost 100 percent from January 1 until the end of the season. This year is a little bit different, no? "We need to be flexible. We need to adapt to the things that are happening. I don't know, I can't give you an accurate answer. Sorry." Nadal is the latest top tennis star to voice his concerns about the Tokyo Games. On Monday, Serena Williams said she was undecided about going to the Olympics while Japanese stars Naomi Osaka and Kei Nishikori have both raised concerns about whether Tokyo should be hosting the Games at all. "I'm an athlete, and of course my immediate thought is that I want to play in the Olympics," Osaka told the BBC. "But as a human, I would say we're in a pandemic, and if people aren't healthy, and if they're not feeling safe, then it's definitely a really big cause for concern." The Olympics, postponed from 2020 because of the coronavirus, are due to run from July 23 to August 8.

Hesitant Nadal joins chorus of concern about Olympics

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