Zimbabwe are hosting Pakistan for the third T20I of the series at the Harare Stadium on Sunday. The three-match T20I series has been a cracking affair with it being firmly locked at 1-1 ahead of the decider between Zimbabwe and Pakistan.<o:p></o:p>

While Pakistan managed to cross the winning line in the first T20I, Zimbabwe made a stunning comeback to register their first-ever T20I win over Pakistan to equalise the series 1-1.<o:p></o:p>

Pakistan have made a couple of changes to their playing XI after the disastrous outing in the second T20I and the Babar Azam-led outfit would be looking to save the blushes and win the series on Sunday. Pakistan, after winning the toss, would be batting first in what promises to be another thrilling contest.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ramiz-raja-and-shoaib-malik-lash-out-at-babar-azam-led-pakistan-after-zimbabwe-debacle-379872" hreflang="en">Ramiz Raja and Shoaib Malik lash out at Babar Azam-led Pakistan after Zimbabwe debacle</a>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Here's all you need to know about the Zimbabwe vs Pakistan 3rd T20I match:<o:p></o:p></h2>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">When and what time will Zimbabwe vs Pakistan 3rd T20I match begin?<o:p></o:p></h2>

Zimbabwe vs Pakistan 3rd T20I match will begin at 2:30 PM IST on Sunday (25th April). <o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Which channel will telecast Zimbabwe vs Pakistan 3rd T20I in India?<o:p></o:p></h2>

Zimbabwe vs Pakistan 3rd T20I match will not be telecasted on a TV channel in India.<o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">How to watch the live streaming of the Zimbabwe vs Pakistan 3rd T20I match in India?<o:p></o:p></h2>

Zimbabwe vs Pakistan 3rd T20I match can be streamed on FanCode in India.

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Zimbabwe vs Pakistan, 3rd T20I: Playing XIs</h2>

Zimbabwe&nbsp;(Playing XI): Tarisai Musakanda, Wesley Madhevere, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Brendan Taylor, Sean Williams(c), Ryan Burl, Regis Chakabva(w), Luke Jongwe, Wellington Masakadza, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava

Pakistan&nbsp;(Playing XI): Mohammad Rizwan(w), Babar Azam(c), Sharjeel Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Mohammad Hafeez, Sarfaraz Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Hasan Ali, Usman Qadir, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Hasnain 
&nbsp;

<o:p></o:p>

Zimbabwe are hosting Pakistan for the third T20I of the series at the Harare Stadium on Sunday. The three-match T20I series has been a cracking affair with it being firmly locked at 1-1 ahead of the decider between Zimbabwe and Pakistan.

Zimbabwe are hosting Pakistan for the third T20I of the series at the Harare Stadium on Sunday. The three-match T20I series has been a cracking affair with it being firmly locked at 1-1 ahead of the decider between Zimbabwe and Pakistan. While Pakistan managed to cross the winning line in the first T20I, Zimbabwe made a stunning comeback to register their first-ever T20I win over Pakistan to equalise the series 1-1. Pakistan have made a couple of changes to their playing XI after the disastrous outing in the second T20I and the Babar Azam-led outfit would be looking to save the blushes and win the series on Sunday. Pakistan, after winning the toss, would be batting first in what promises to be another thrilling contest. ALSO READ: Ramiz Raja and Shoaib Malik lash out at Babar Azam-led Pakistan after Zimbabwe debacle Here's all you need to know about the Zimbabwe vs Pakistan 3rd T20I match: When and what time will Zimbabwe vs Pakistan 3rd T20I match begin? Zimbabwe vs Pakistan 3rd T20I match will begin at 2:30 PM IST on Sunday (25th April). Which channel will telecast Zimbabwe vs Pakistan 3rd T20I in India? Zimbabwe vs Pakistan 3rd T20I match will not be telecasted on a TV channel in India. How to watch the live streaming of the Zimbabwe vs Pakistan 3rd T20I match in India? Zimbabwe vs Pakistan 3rd T20I match can be streamed on FanCode in India. Zimbabwe vs Pakistan, 3rd T20I: Playing XIs Zimbabwe (Playing XI): Tarisai Musakanda, Wesley Madhevere, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Brendan Taylor, Sean Williams(c), Ryan Burl, Regis Chakabva(w), Luke Jongwe, Wellington Masakadza, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava Pakistan (Playing XI): Mohammad Rizwan(w), Babar Azam(c), Sharjeel Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Mohammad Hafeez, Sarfaraz Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Hasan Ali, Usman Qadir, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Hasnain

Zimbabwe vs Pakistan 3rd T20I Live Streaming: When and where to watch ZIM vs PAK online?

In what will be a top-of-the-table clash in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, Chennai Super Kings will take on Royal Challengers Bangalore at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Sunday. Both RCB and CSK have had a superlative start to their IPL 2021 campaigns and will look to continue their winning run in the T20 tournament. <o:p></o:p>

While RCB are unbeaten in IPL 2021 so far, CSK have lost just one game out of their four matches so far in the lucrative T20 tournament. <o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">CSK vs RCB Weather Forecast IPL 2021</h2>

There is no chance of rain gods interrupting the match with a clear sky expected during the course of the match. The temperature will hover around 33 degrees Celcius in what will be a hot afternoon in Mumbai.<o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">CSK vs RCB IPL2021 Live Streaming Details<o:p></o:p></h2>

TV Broadcast: Star Sports Network. <o:p></o:p>

Online Live Streaming: Disney+ Hotstar.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-are-feeling-hurt-for-everyone-morris-says-players-want-to-keep-people-happy-amid-pandemic-380056" hreflang="en">'We are feeling hurt for everyone,' Morris says players want to keep people happy amid pandemic</a>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">CSK vs RCB Pitch Report<o:p></o:p></h2>

Wankhede Stadium’s pitch is known to support the batters. However, with time, the track has slowed down a bit. Nonetheless, the team batting first would be looking to post a total north to 180. With the match being a day game, dew will not come into play and it would be interesting how teams approach their respective innings in Mumbai.<o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">CSK vs RCB Head to Head:<o:p></o:p></h2>

Overall Matches – 27, Won by CSK – 17, Won by RCB – 9, NR – 1.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-maxwell-to-dhawan-five-players-who-have-rocked-ipl-2021-so-far-379570" hreflang="en">From Maxwell to Dhawan: Five players who have rocked IPL 2021 so far</a>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">CSK vs RCB Probable Playing XIs:<o:p></o:p></h2>

CSK – Ruturaj Gaikwad, Faf du Plessis, Moeen Ali, Suresh Raina, Ambati Rayudu, MS Dhoni, Sam Curran, Ravindra Jadeja, Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, Lungi Ngidi.<o:p></o:p>

RCB – Devdutt Padikkal, Virat Kohli, Shahbaz Ahmed, Glenn Maxwell, AB de Villiers, Washington Sundar, Kyle Jamieson, Daniel Sams/Kane Richardson, Harshal Patel, Mohammed Siraj, Yuzvendra Chahal.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

In what will be a top-of-the-table clash in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, Chennai Super Kings will take on Royal Challengers Bangalore at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Sunday.

In what will be a top-of-the-table clash in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, Chennai Super Kings will take on Royal Challengers Bangalore at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Sunday. Both RCB and CSK have had a superlative start to their IPL 2021 campaigns and will look to continue their winning run in the T20 tournament. While RCB are unbeaten in IPL 2021 so far, CSK have lost just one game out of their four matches so far in the lucrative T20 tournament. CSK vs RCB Weather Forecast IPL 2021 There is no chance of rain gods interrupting the match with a clear sky expected during the course of the match. The temperature will hover around 33 degrees Celcius in what will be a hot afternoon in Mumbai. CSK vs RCB IPL2021 Live Streaming Details TV Broadcast: Star Sports Network. Online Live Streaming: Disney+ Hotstar. ALSO READ: 'We are feeling hurt for everyone,' Morris says players want to keep people happy amid pandemic CSK vs RCB Pitch Report Wankhede Stadium’s pitch is known to support the batters. However, with time, the track has slowed down a bit. Nonetheless, the team batting first would be looking to post a total north to 180. With the match being a day game, dew will not come into play and it would be interesting how teams approach their respective innings in Mumbai. CSK vs RCB Head to Head: Overall Matches – 27, Won by CSK – 17, Won by RCB – 9, NR – 1. ALSO READ: From Maxwell to Dhawan: Five players who have rocked IPL 2021 so far CSK vs RCB Probable Playing XIs: CSK – Ruturaj Gaikwad, Faf du Plessis, Moeen Ali, Suresh Raina, Ambati Rayudu, MS Dhoni, Sam Curran, Ravindra Jadeja, Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, Lungi Ngidi. RCB – Devdutt Padikkal, Virat Kohli, Shahbaz Ahmed, Glenn Maxwell, AB de Villiers, Washington Sundar, Kyle Jamieson, Daniel Sams/Kane Richardson, Harshal Patel, Mohammed Siraj, Yuzvendra Chahal.

CSK vs RCB, IPL 2021: Wankhede Stadium pitch report, likely playing XIs, Mumbai weather forecast - All you need to know

England all-rounder Ben Stokes has lashed out at the slow and sticky nature of the pitch in the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai with the venue producing low-scoring matches in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. Stokes, who was ruled out of IPL 2021 due to a finger injury, hoped that teams don’t end up fighting for low scores on “trash” pitches.<o:p></o:p>

Stokes is of the view that a T20 match should produce a minimum score of 160-170 and added that teams shouldn’t regularly scrap for 130-140 scores due to the slow nature of pitches. <o:p></o:p>

"Hope the wickets don't get worse as the IPL gets deeper into the tournament..160/170 minimum not scraping to 130/140 cause the wickets are trash," Stokes tweeted after Mumbai Indians posted 131 for 6 against Punjab Kings.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-rr-vs-kkr-preview-rajasthan-royals-and-kolkata-knight-riders-fight-for-a-turnaround-379711" hreflang="en">IPL 2021, RR vs KKR Preview: - Rajasthan Royals and Kolkata Knight Riders fight for a turnaround</a>

<o:p></o:p>

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Hope the wickets don’t get worse as the <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IPL</a> gets deeper into the tournament..160/170 minimum not scraping to 130/140 cause the wickets are trash..
— Ben Stokes (@benstokes38) <a href="https://twitter.com/benstokes38/status/1385637614938730501?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Chennai had hosted nine IPL 2021 matches till Friday and teams, batting first, have surpassed the 170-run mark only twice in the T20 tournament. Only Royal Challengers Bangalore and Kolkata Knight Riders have managed to do score in IPL 2021.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-maxwell-to-dhawan-five-players-who-have-rocked-ipl-2021-so-far-379570" hreflang="en">From Maxwell to Dhawan: Five players who have rocked IPL 2021 so far</a>

Scores of 145-150 have turned out to be competitive total to win the match for teams batting first. <o:p></o:p>

Chennai will host its last IPL game of the season on Sunday when Delhi Capitals take on SunRisers Hyderabad before the caravan shifts to Ahmedabad and New Delhi.<o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, RCB lead the IPL 2021 points table with four out of four wins while three-time winners CSK are second with three wins and a defeat to their name. Delhi Capitals have also won three matches and sit third in the table.<o:p></o:p>

England all-rounder Ben Stokes has lashed out at the slow and sticky nature of the pitch in the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai with the venue producing low-scoring matches in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021.

England all-rounder Ben Stokes has lashed out at the slow and sticky nature of the pitch in the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai with the venue producing low-scoring matches in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. Stokes, who was ruled out of IPL 2021 due to a finger injury, hoped that teams don’t end up fighting for low scores on “trash” pitches. Stokes is of the view that a T20 match should produce a minimum score of 160-170 and added that teams shouldn’t regularly scrap for 130-140 scores due to the slow nature of pitches. "Hope the wickets don't get worse as the IPL gets deeper into the tournament..160/170 minimum not scraping to 130/140 cause the wickets are trash," Stokes tweeted after Mumbai Indians posted 131 for 6 against Punjab Kings. ALSO READ: IPL 2021, RR vs KKR Preview: - Rajasthan Royals and Kolkata Knight Riders fight for a turnaround Hope the wickets don’t get worse as the @IPL gets deeper into the tournament..160/170 minimum not scraping to 130/140 cause the wickets are trash.. — Ben Stokes (@benstokes38) April 23, 2021 × Chennai had hosted nine IPL 2021 matches till Friday and teams, batting first, have surpassed the 170-run mark only twice in the T20 tournament. Only Royal Challengers Bangalore and Kolkata Knight Riders have managed to do score in IPL 2021. ALSO READ: From Maxwell to Dhawan: Five players who have rocked IPL 2021 so far Scores of 145-150 have turned out to be competitive total to win the match for teams batting first. Chennai will host its last IPL game of the season on Sunday when Delhi Capitals take on SunRisers Hyderabad before the caravan shifts to Ahmedabad and New Delhi. Meanwhile, RCB lead the IPL 2021 points table with four out of four wins while three-time winners CSK are second with three wins and a defeat to their name. Delhi Capitals have also won three matches and sit third in the table.

Wickets are trash: Ben Stokes slams slow Chennai pitch after another low-scoring match in IPL 2021

The bottom-placed teams in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021&nbsp;- Kolkata Knight Riders and Rajasthan Royals - take on one another in what will be their last game at the Wankhede Stadium Mumbai. The two sides will hope to benefit as much as possible from the batting-friendly pitch prior to moving to the nearly more slow surfaces of Ahmedabad and Delhi.&nbsp;

On great batting wickets like in Mumbai, Rajasthan Royals neglected to misuse the conditions and take advantage of their batting-weighty unit. The Knights haven't had the option to place in a total execution at this point, moving from Chennai to Mumbai.

The two teams will frantically be searching for success after a helpless beginning to their mission. Both RR and KKR have won only one of their four matches, with RR falling off a whipping by RCB, while KKR persevered through a nearby loss against CSK.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-maxwell-to-dhawan-five-players-who-have-rocked-ipl-2021-so-far-379570" hreflang="en">From Maxwell to Dhawan: Five players who have rocked IPL 2021 so far</a>

<h2>Rajasthan Royals vs Kolkata Knight Riders: Head-to-Head stats</h2>

Since the time of RR's re-visitation of IPL in 2018, KKR have&nbsp;ruled the apparatuses against them, winning six of the seven matches between the two teams. By and large, the sides have played 22 games against one another with KKR, the usurper as of late.

<h2>Rajasthan Royals.</h2>

It might provoke RR to roll out a couple of improvements for the KKR clash, with one of them being leaving out Manan Vohra. The opener has scored only 42 runs in his four matches for the Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2021. The debut IPL champions could surely think about supplanting him with Yashasvi Jaiswal, as it would likewise give them left and right-hand batting blend at the top of the order.&nbsp;

David Miller, Sanju Samson, and Jos Buttler need to venture up and convey with the bat. RR additionally need&nbsp;to get a strike bowler like Andrew Tye into their XI, as they have battled to get wickets.&nbsp;

Rajasthan Royals have a benefit over KKR, as they've played four of their games at the Wankhede. Be that as it may, Buttler ought to guarantee Rajasthan Royals don't lose an excessive number of wickets in the powerplay, while Chris Morris should assist get some early wickets with the ball.

Probable XI:&nbsp;Jos Buttler, Yashasvi Jaiswal/Manan Vohra, Sanju Samson (c &amp; wk), Shivam Dube, David Miller, Riyan Parag, Rahul Tewatia, Chris Morris, Shreyas Gopal, Chetan Sakariya, Mustafizur Rahman

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rajasthan-royals-pacer-jofra-archer-ruled-out-of-ipl-2021-confirms-ecb-379543" hreflang="en">Rajasthan Royals pacer Jofra Archer ruled out of IPL 2021, confirms ECB</a>

<h2>Kolkata Knight Riders</h2>

Kolkata Knight Riders, then again, don't have workforce issues yet would be anxious to assemble a team performance against Rajasthan Royals. Their top-order has flamed out subsequent to beginning the competition on a high, and Eoin Morgan will trust Nitish Rana&nbsp;and Co. can give them a strong beginning tonight.&nbsp;

The captain himself is enduring an onslaught, having failed to fire this season. Eoin Morgan personally has a decent record against Rajasthan Royals. He has gone past fifty in four of his last five innings against the Rajasthan Royals, and it very well may be simply the ideal game for the southpaw to play himself back into the structure.&nbsp;

They do, nonetheless, have a ton of expanding openings in their program. Their pacers were extremely incapable against CSK, so acquiring somebody like Lockie Ferguson may not be an ill-conceived notion. Shubman Gill likewise needs to venture up and convey at the top.

Probable XI:&nbsp;Nitish Rana, Shubman Gill, Rahul Tripathi, Eoin Morgan (c), Dinesh Karthik (wk), Sunil Narine, Andre Russell, Pat Cummins, Kamlesh Nagarkoti/Shivam Mavi, Varun Chakravarthy, Prasidh Krishna.

With a win instrumental in restoring their individual missions, the two teams will hope to battle it fervently in this match, which implies a cracking challenge could result at the Wankhede.

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The bottom-placed teams in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 - Kolkata Knight Riders and Rajasthan Royals - take on one another in what will be their last game at the Wankhede Stadium Mumbai.

The bottom-placed teams in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 - Kolkata Knight Riders and Rajasthan Royals - take on one another in what will be their last game at the Wankhede Stadium Mumbai. The two sides will hope to benefit as much as possible from the batting-friendly pitch prior to moving to the nearly more slow surfaces of Ahmedabad and Delhi. On great batting wickets like in Mumbai, Rajasthan Royals neglected to misuse the conditions and take advantage of their batting-weighty unit. The Knights haven't had the option to place in a total execution at this point, moving from Chennai to Mumbai. The two teams will frantically be searching for success after a helpless beginning to their mission. Both RR and KKR have won only one of their four matches, with RR falling off a whipping by RCB, while KKR persevered through a nearby loss against CSK. ALSO READ: From Maxwell to Dhawan: Five players who have rocked IPL 2021 so far Rajasthan Royals vs Kolkata Knight Riders: Head-to-Head stats Since the time of RR's re-visitation of IPL in 2018, KKR have ruled the apparatuses against them, winning six of the seven matches between the two teams. By and large, the sides have played 22 games against one another with KKR, the usurper as of late. Rajasthan Royals. It might provoke RR to roll out a couple of improvements for the KKR clash, with one of them being leaving out Manan Vohra. The opener has scored only 42 runs in his four matches for the Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2021. The debut IPL champions could surely think about supplanting him with Yashasvi Jaiswal, as it would likewise give them left and right-hand batting blend at the top of the order. David Miller, Sanju Samson, and Jos Buttler need to venture up and convey with the bat. RR additionally need to get a strike bowler like Andrew Tye into their XI, as they have battled to get wickets. Rajasthan Royals have a benefit over KKR, as they've played four of their games at the Wankhede. Be that as it may, Buttler ought to guarantee Rajasthan Royals don't lose an excessive number of wickets in the powerplay, while Chris Morris should assist get some early wickets with the ball. Probable XI: Jos Buttler, Yashasvi Jaiswal/Manan Vohra, Sanju Samson (c & wk), Shivam Dube, David Miller, Riyan Parag, Rahul Tewatia, Chris Morris, Shreyas Gopal, Chetan Sakariya, Mustafizur Rahman ALSO READ: Rajasthan Royals pacer Jofra Archer ruled out of IPL 2021, confirms ECB Kolkata Knight Riders Kolkata Knight Riders, then again, don't have workforce issues yet would be anxious to assemble a team performance against Rajasthan Royals. Their top-order has flamed out subsequent to beginning the competition on a high, and Eoin Morgan will trust Nitish Rana and Co. can give them a strong beginning tonight. The captain himself is enduring an onslaught, having failed to fire this season. Eoin Morgan personally has a decent record against Rajasthan Royals. He has gone past fifty in four of his last five innings against the Rajasthan Royals, and it very well may be simply the ideal game for the southpaw to play himself back into the structure. They do, nonetheless, have a ton of expanding openings in their program. Their pacers were extremely incapable against CSK, so acquiring somebody like Lockie Ferguson may not be an ill-conceived notion. Shubman Gill likewise needs to venture up and convey at the top. Probable XI: Nitish Rana, Shubman Gill, Rahul Tripathi, Eoin Morgan (c), Dinesh Karthik (wk), Sunil Narine, Andre Russell, Pat Cummins, Kamlesh Nagarkoti/Shivam Mavi, Varun Chakravarthy, Prasidh Krishna. With a win instrumental in restoring their individual missions, the two teams will hope to battle it fervently in this match, which implies a cracking challenge could result at the Wankhede. ×

IPL 2021, RR vs KKR Preview: - Rajasthan Royals and Kolkata Knight Riders fight for a turnaround

Former Manchester United superstar Ryan Giggs has been charged with assault against two women, police and prosecutors said on Friday. Giggs has been charged with causing bodily harm to woman in her 30s and common assault of a woman in her 20s and as well as one count of controlling behavior between 2017 and 2020.<o:p></o:p>

Giggs, who was the manager of the Wales national football team until Friday, is set to lose his job with the Football Association of Wales saying that it would replace him with Robert Page for the upcoming Euro 2020, set to be played later this year.<o:p></o:p>

In November 2020, Giggs missed a number of Wales match after allegations of assault but denied them at the time. <o:p></o:p>

Giggs is due to appear at Manchester and Salford Magistrates’ Court on April 28, the Crown Prosecution Service said in its statement.<o:p></o:p>

Giggs said he would plead not guilty to the charges against him.<o:p></o:p>

“I have full respect for the due process of law and understand the seriousness of the allegations," Giggs said in a statement. “I will plead not guilty in court and look forward to clearing my name."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-drops-euro-hosts-dublin-bilbao-mulls-super-league-reprisals-379663" hreflang="en">UEFA drops Euro hosts Dublin, Bilbao, mulls Super League reprisals</a>

Whereas Greater Manchester Police, in a separate statement, said that both counts of assault relate to November 1, 2020 when police were dialed to reports of disturbance and a woman in her 30s was treated for injuries at the scene. <o:p></o:p>

The Football Association of Wales said it would convene a meeting to discuss the impact of the developments on the national team.<o:p></o:p>

“The FAW will not be making any further comment at this current time," it said in a statement.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/man-city-spurs-clash-in-league-cup-final-after-super-league-debacle-379657" hreflang="en">Man City, Spurs clash in League Cup final after Super League debacle</a>

Giggs made 963 appearances over 23 years for Manchester United as a player, a club record, winning a haul of honours including 13 Premier League winner’s medals and two UEFA Champions League winner’s medals.<o:p></o:p>

He represented Wales as a player 64 times between 1991 and 2007 and took over as national coach in 2018.&nbsp;He is also co-owner of League Two side Salford City.

(With Reuters inputs)

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<o:p></o:p>

Former Manchester United superstar Ryan Giggs has been charged with assault against two women, police and prosecutors said on Friday. Giggs has been charged with causing bodily harm to woman in her 30s and common assault of a woman in her 20s and as well as one count of controlling behavior between 2017 and 2020.

Former Manchester United superstar Ryan Giggs has been charged with assault against two women, police and prosecutors said on Friday. Giggs has been charged with causing bodily harm to woman in her 30s and common assault of a woman in her 20s and as well as one count of controlling behavior between 2017 and 2020. Giggs, who was the manager of the Wales national football team until Friday, is set to lose his job with the Football Association of Wales saying that it would replace him with Robert Page for the upcoming Euro 2020, set to be played later this year. In November 2020, Giggs missed a number of Wales match after allegations of assault but denied them at the time. Giggs is due to appear at Manchester and Salford Magistrates’ Court on April 28, the Crown Prosecution Service said in its statement. Giggs said he would plead not guilty to the charges against him. “I have full respect for the due process of law and understand the seriousness of the allegations," Giggs said in a statement. “I will plead not guilty in court and look forward to clearing my name." ALSO READ: UEFA drops Euro hosts Dublin, Bilbao, mulls Super League reprisals Whereas Greater Manchester Police, in a separate statement, said that both counts of assault relate to November 1, 2020 when police were dialed to reports of disturbance and a woman in her 30s was treated for injuries at the scene. The Football Association of Wales said it would convene a meeting to discuss the impact of the developments on the national team. “The FAW will not be making any further comment at this current time," it said in a statement. ALSO READ: Man City, Spurs clash in League Cup final after Super League debacle Giggs made 963 appearances over 23 years for Manchester United as a player, a club record, winning a haul of honours including 13 Premier League winner’s medals and two UEFA Champions League winner’s medals. He represented Wales as a player 64 times between 1991 and 2007 and took over as national coach in 2018. He is also co-owner of League Two side Salford City. (With Reuters inputs) ×

Former Manchester United superstar Ryan Giggs charged with assault against two women

Tiger Woods posted a photo of himself on crutches on Friday and said his rehab is "coming along" two months after the golf great suffered severe leg injuries when his car careened off a road near Los Angeles and crashed.

The photo on the Instagram account of the 45-year-old American showed him smiling on a golf course with a black and white dog.

"My course is coming along faster than I am," he said, adding a smiling face emoji.

"But it's nice to have a faithful rehab partner, man's best friend."

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Woods sustained compound fractures of his tibia and fibula in his right leg in the early morning crash, which required emergency surgery. He also suffered injuries to his foot and ankle.

Authorities have said that excessive speed was the primary cause of the accident. Woods was not charged with any crime for the one-car wreck.

The injuries have raised concerns over whether Woods will return to competitive golf, with any comeback further complicated by his long history of knee and back problems.

Orthopedic surgeons interviewed by Reuters after the accident said that while the road to recovery will not be an easy one, it is possible for Woods to return to the sport in about a year.

Woods is tied with Sam Snead on the all-time list for wins on the PGA Tour with 82.

The Florida resident also has 15 major championships to his name, his most recent coming at the Masters in 2019, and needs three more to match the record held by Jack Nicklaus.

Tiger Woods posted a photo of himself on crutches on Friday and said his rehab is "coming along" two months after the golf great suffered severe leg injuries when his car careened off a road near Los Angeles and crashed.

Tiger Woods posted a photo of himself on crutches on Friday and said his rehab is "coming along" two months after the golf great suffered severe leg injuries when his car careened off a road near Los Angeles and crashed. The photo on the Instagram account of the 45-year-old American showed him smiling on a golf course with a black and white dog. "My course is coming along faster than I am," he said, adding a smiling face emoji. "But it's nice to have a faithful rehab partner, man's best friend." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tiger Woods (@tigerwoods) × Woods sustained compound fractures of his tibia and fibula in his right leg in the early morning crash, which required emergency surgery. He also suffered injuries to his foot and ankle. Authorities have said that excessive speed was the primary cause of the accident. Woods was not charged with any crime for the one-car wreck. The injuries have raised concerns over whether Woods will return to competitive golf, with any comeback further complicated by his long history of knee and back problems. Orthopedic surgeons interviewed by Reuters after the accident said that while the road to recovery will not be an easy one, it is possible for Woods to return to the sport in about a year. Woods is tied with Sam Snead on the all-time list for wins on the PGA Tour with 82. The Florida resident also has 15 major championships to his name, his most recent coming at the Masters in 2019, and needs three more to match the record held by Jack Nicklaus.

Tiger Woods posts photo of himself on crutches, says rehab is 'coming along'

World number one Novak Djokovic said Friday he hoped it would not become compulsory for players to be vaccinated against coronavirus and insisted any decision he makes on whether or not to take the vaccine will remain private.

"I am still a supporter of freedom of choice," Djokovic said after reaching the semi-finals of the ATP tournament in Belgrade.

It was in the Serbian capital last summer where Djokovic, as well as a number of other players, tested positive for Covid-19 after organising a controversial exhibition event.

On whether or not he will be vaccinated to guarantee entry to tournaments, 33-year-old Djokovic refused to commit himself.

"I will keep my decision to myself, I think it's a private, intimate thing. I do not want to be labelled as someone who is for or against vaccination," added Djokovic who has expressed his reservations in the past.

"I hope it does not become compulsory."

On court, Djokovic stayed on course for a third Belgrade title with a comfortable 6-1, 6-3 quarter-final win over compatriot Miomir Kecmanovic.

Djokovic, the 2009 and 2011 champion at the event which is played at a venue which carries his name, will face Russia's Aslan Karatsev&nbsp;for a place in the final.

In their first meeting, Djokovic broke his 21-year-old opponent's first service game and repeated the feat for a 5-1 lead in the opener.

His only blip was when he was broken as he served for the match at 5-2 in the second set.

However, it was a brief respite for world number 47 Kecmanovic who handed back the break in the next game allowing the top seed to complete a 75-minute win.

"I think personally I'm feeling very well on court, moving well, hitting the ball well and, of course, enjoying the home court advantage," Djokovic said.&nbsp;

"So I'm really excited to go out in the semi-finals on the court again tomorrow."

Djokovic, who captured an 18th Grand Slam title in Australia in February, opened his clay court campaign in Monaco last week where he suffered a surprise last-16 loss to Britain's Dan Evans.

On Saturday, he will face Russian third seed Karatsev who put out Gianluca Mager of Italy 6-3, 6-4.

Djokovic ended Karatsev's stunning run at the Australian Open in the semi-finals in February where the Russian, then ranked at 114, came through qualifying.

Japan's world number 126 Taro Daniel also booked a last-four place on Friday by beating Argentina's Federico Delbonis 4-6, 6-1, 7-5.

Daniel is the first lucky loser to reach an ATP semi-final this year.

On Saturday, he tackles 10th-ranked Matteo Berrettini, the Italian second seed who knocked out Serb fifth seed Filip Krajinovic 6-4, 6-4.

Daniel has never beaten a top-10 player in four previous attempts.

World number one Novak Djokovic said Friday he hoped it would not become compulsory for players to be vaccinated against coronavirus and insisted any decision he makes on whether or not to take the vaccine will remain private.

World number one Novak Djokovic said Friday he hoped it would not become compulsory for players to be vaccinated against coronavirus and insisted any decision he makes on whether or not to take the vaccine will remain private. "I am still a supporter of freedom of choice," Djokovic said after reaching the semi-finals of the ATP tournament in Belgrade. It was in the Serbian capital last summer where Djokovic, as well as a number of other players, tested positive for Covid-19 after organising a controversial exhibition event. On whether or not he will be vaccinated to guarantee entry to tournaments, 33-year-old Djokovic refused to commit himself. "I will keep my decision to myself, I think it's a private, intimate thing. I do not want to be labelled as someone who is for or against vaccination," added Djokovic who has expressed his reservations in the past. "I hope it does not become compulsory." On court, Djokovic stayed on course for a third Belgrade title with a comfortable 6-1, 6-3 quarter-final win over compatriot Miomir Kecmanovic. Djokovic, the 2009 and 2011 champion at the event which is played at a venue which carries his name, will face Russia's Aslan Karatsev for a place in the final. In their first meeting, Djokovic broke his 21-year-old opponent's first service game and repeated the feat for a 5-1 lead in the opener. His only blip was when he was broken as he served for the match at 5-2 in the second set. However, it was a brief respite for world number 47 Kecmanovic who handed back the break in the next game allowing the top seed to complete a 75-minute win. "I think personally I'm feeling very well on court, moving well, hitting the ball well and, of course, enjoying the home court advantage," Djokovic said. "So I'm really excited to go out in the semi-finals on the court again tomorrow." Djokovic, who captured an 18th Grand Slam title in Australia in February, opened his clay court campaign in Monaco last week where he suffered a surprise last-16 loss to Britain's Dan Evans. On Saturday, he will face Russian third seed Karatsev who put out Gianluca Mager of Italy 6-3, 6-4. Djokovic ended Karatsev's stunning run at the Australian Open in the semi-finals in February where the Russian, then ranked at 114, came through qualifying. Japan's world number 126 Taro Daniel also booked a last-four place on Friday by beating Argentina's Federico Delbonis 4-6, 6-1, 7-5. Daniel is the first lucky loser to reach an ATP semi-final this year. On Saturday, he tackles 10th-ranked Matteo Berrettini, the Italian second seed who knocked out Serb fifth seed Filip Krajinovic 6-4, 6-4. Daniel has never beaten a top-10 player in four previous attempts.

Djokovic hopes COVID-19 vaccination will not be compulsory

UEFA on Friday dropped Dublin and Bilbao as Euro 2020 hosts over a failure to guarantee fans' attendance and held fire over any reprisals it might mete out to the 12 clubs involved in the failed Super League project.

The four matches destined for Dublin will now be held in St Petersburg and London while Seville steps in to replace Bilbao, UEFA announced.

Munich was confirmed as a venue at the eleventh hour, the German city joining Budapest, Baku, Amsterdam, Bucharest, Glasgow, Copenhagen and Rome.

Held over from 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic, the European Championship will now be held in 11 different countries from June 11-July 11.

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin welcomed being able to "guarantee a safe and festive environment" with fans "at every match".

Dublin and Bilbao lost out after the Irish government and Basque region officials were unable to assure UEFA of fans despite the pandemic.

"We just think June is too soon," Irish Deputy Prime Minister Leo Varadkar had said on Wednesday.

Dublin's three group matches go to St Petersburg, with Wembley the new venue for its round of 16 game.

Seville gets Bilbao's three matches and round of 16 tie after its regional authority pledged the Estadio La Cartuja could be filled to 30 percent capacity.

UEFA said it had forced the switch "simply to allow fans to attend the games after a year of not being able to watch live football in stadiums".

Budapest, St Petersburg, Baku, Amsterdam, Bucharest, Glasgow, Copenhagen, Rome and London had all promised crowds at between 25 percent and 100 percent of capacity in the run up to UEFA's deadline this month.

Munich, venue for world champions France against Germany on June 15, got the go-ahead for their four matches after confirmation from local authorities they would be able "to welcome a minimum of 14,500 spectators", UEFA's statement confirmed.

However, Munich mayor Dieter Reiter said: "There have been no promises of any kind to guarantee spectators."

While there will be disappointment in Dublin and Bilbao for missing out, UEFA expressed its "appreciation and gratitude" to the two cities, saying "both are considered as good venues to host future UEFA events".

"While today is a disappointing day for football fans in the city and country, public safety must always come first," said Owen Keegan, chief executive of Dublin City Council.

One man who will definitely miss the Euros is Wales manager Ryan Giggs who faces a court appearance after being charged with assaulting two women.

The Football Association of Wales said caretaker boss Robert Page, who has overseen matches since November, would remain in charge for Euro 2020.

<h2>- Super League 'options' -</h2>

Also on UEFA's agenda at Friday's virtual meeting was the matter of punishment, if any, for the so-called 'dirty dozen' architects of the doomed Super League designed to supplant the Champions League.

European football's governing body said it had examined its "options" without announcing any sanctions.

"The UEFA executive committee has been informed of the latest developments in relation to the 'Super League', in particular regarding the options available to UEFA and the measures it plans to take," said UEFA.

In the space of 48 hours this week beginning on Sunday evening, UEFA, aided by fans and politicians, quelled a mutiny by the English, Spanish and Italian clubs who presumed to form their own quasi-closed tournament.

Nine clubs, including all six in England, subsequently withdrew and even if Juventus, Barcelona and Real Madrid, whose president Florentino Perez led the attempted secession, are still refusing formally to capitulate, their proposal no longer appears credible.&nbsp;

US investment bank JPMorgan, which agreed to financially back the breakaway Super League, said Friday it had "clearly misjudged" the failed project's impact.

Among the many punishments being considered by UEFA would have been the possible exclusion of Manchester City, Chelsea and Real Madrid, all of whom signed up for the Super League, from the Champions League semi-finals which begin next week.

Such a drastic measure appeared to have been ruled out by Ceferin who told Slovenian television Pop TV on Wednesday: "There is relatively little chance that next week's matches will not be played... If we cancelled the matches, television stations would have compensation demands."

It remains to be seen what the "consequences" promised Wednesday by Ceferin to the dissident clubs and their leaders will look like, the UEFA boss not having specified whether they would be judicial, disciplinary or sporting.&nbsp;

UEFA on Friday dropped Dublin and Bilbao as Euro 2020 hosts over a failure to guarantee fans' attendance and held fire over any reprisals it might mete out to the 12 clubs involved in the failed Super League project.

UEFA on Friday dropped Dublin and Bilbao as Euro 2020 hosts over a failure to guarantee fans' attendance and held fire over any reprisals it might mete out to the 12 clubs involved in the failed Super League project. The four matches destined for Dublin will now be held in St Petersburg and London while Seville steps in to replace Bilbao, UEFA announced. Munich was confirmed as a venue at the eleventh hour, the German city joining Budapest, Baku, Amsterdam, Bucharest, Glasgow, Copenhagen and Rome. Held over from 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic, the European Championship will now be held in 11 different countries from June 11-July 11. UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin welcomed being able to "guarantee a safe and festive environment" with fans "at every match". Dublin and Bilbao lost out after the Irish government and Basque region officials were unable to assure UEFA of fans despite the pandemic. "We just think June is too soon," Irish Deputy Prime Minister Leo Varadkar had said on Wednesday. Dublin's three group matches go to St Petersburg, with Wembley the new venue for its round of 16 game. Seville gets Bilbao's three matches and round of 16 tie after its regional authority pledged the Estadio La Cartuja could be filled to 30 percent capacity. UEFA said it had forced the switch "simply to allow fans to attend the games after a year of not being able to watch live football in stadiums". Budapest, St Petersburg, Baku, Amsterdam, Bucharest, Glasgow, Copenhagen, Rome and London had all promised crowds at between 25 percent and 100 percent of capacity in the run up to UEFA's deadline this month. Munich, venue for world champions France against Germany on June 15, got the go-ahead for their four matches after confirmation from local authorities they would be able "to welcome a minimum of 14,500 spectators", UEFA's statement confirmed. However, Munich mayor Dieter Reiter said: "There have been no promises of any kind to guarantee spectators." While there will be disappointment in Dublin and Bilbao for missing out, UEFA expressed its "appreciation and gratitude" to the two cities, saying "both are considered as good venues to host future UEFA events". "While today is a disappointing day for football fans in the city and country, public safety must always come first," said Owen Keegan, chief executive of Dublin City Council. One man who will definitely miss the Euros is Wales manager Ryan Giggs who faces a court appearance after being charged with assaulting two women. The Football Association of Wales said caretaker boss Robert Page, who has overseen matches since November, would remain in charge for Euro 2020. - Super League 'options' - Also on UEFA's agenda at Friday's virtual meeting was the matter of punishment, if any, for the so-called 'dirty dozen' architects of the doomed Super League designed to supplant the Champions League. European football's governing body said it had examined its "options" without announcing any sanctions. "The UEFA executive committee has been informed of the latest developments in relation to the 'Super League', in particular regarding the options available to UEFA and the measures it plans to take," said UEFA. In the space of 48 hours this week beginning on Sunday evening, UEFA, aided by fans and politicians, quelled a mutiny by the English, Spanish and Italian clubs who presumed to form their own quasi-closed tournament. Nine clubs, including all six in England, subsequently withdrew and even if Juventus, Barcelona and Real Madrid, whose president Florentino Perez led the attempted secession, are still refusing formally to capitulate, their proposal no longer appears credible. US investment bank JPMorgan, which agreed to financially back the breakaway Super League, said Friday it had "clearly misjudged" the failed project's impact. Among the many punishments being considered by UEFA would have been the possible exclusion of Manchester City, Chelsea and Real Madrid, all of whom signed up for the Super League, from the Champions League semi-finals which begin next week. Such a drastic measure appeared to have been ruled out by Ceferin who told Slovenian television Pop TV on Wednesday: "There is relatively little chance that next week's matches will not be played... If we cancelled the matches, television stations would have compensation demands." It remains to be seen what the "consequences" promised Wednesday by Ceferin to the dissident clubs and their leaders will look like, the UEFA boss not having specified whether they would be judicial, disciplinary or sporting.

UEFA drops Euro hosts Dublin, Bilbao, mulls Super League reprisals

Schalke 04 said Friday they have asked for police protection at training next week after angry fans attacked the team bus following the club's relegation from the Bundesliga.&nbsp;

A large group of furious supporters pelted the team bus with eggs and confronted players on their return to Gelsenkirchen early Wednesday after defeat at Bielefeld saw Schalke relegated after 30 years in Germany's top flight.

The team has won just two of their 30 games this season.

Some players were reportedly followed to their homes and threatened in the wake of Tuesday's loss - their 21st league defeat of 2020/21.

At least one player's car is said to have been badly damaged before police intervened.

Schalke have no game this weekend, but sports director Peter Knaebel has asked for police help when training resumes Monday.

In a statement Friday, Schalke said they have "already initiated measures to ensure the safety and security of the players and staff".

Knaebel also told Bild that he "can live with it" if any player refuses to play their last four remaining games.

The Schalke boss blames himself for not taking steps to protect the team on their return from Bielefeld.

"People were in danger, things got damaged. We were lucky that nothing worse happened to our people," Knaebel told German daily Bild.

"I apologise to the players and staff."

In a statement, the club said it will not tolerate instances where the "health and safety of its employees are threatened or endangered."

"A line was crossed on Wednesday morning, and these events have deeply shaken the club.

"Violence is never justified, neither in sport, nor in society."&nbsp;

Schalke 04 said Friday they have asked for police protection at training next week after angry fans attacked the team bus following the club's relegation from the Bundesliga.

Schalke 04 said Friday they have asked for police protection at training next week after angry fans attacked the team bus following the club's relegation from the Bundesliga. A large group of furious supporters pelted the team bus with eggs and confronted players on their return to Gelsenkirchen early Wednesday after defeat at Bielefeld saw Schalke relegated after 30 years in Germany's top flight. The team has won just two of their 30 games this season. Some players were reportedly followed to their homes and threatened in the wake of Tuesday's loss - their 21st league defeat of 2020/21. At least one player's car is said to have been badly damaged before police intervened. Schalke have no game this weekend, but sports director Peter Knaebel has asked for police help when training resumes Monday. In a statement Friday, Schalke said they have "already initiated measures to ensure the safety and security of the players and staff". Knaebel also told Bild that he "can live with it" if any player refuses to play their last four remaining games. The Schalke boss blames himself for not taking steps to protect the team on their return from Bielefeld. "People were in danger, things got damaged. We were lucky that nothing worse happened to our people," Knaebel told German daily Bild. "I apologise to the players and staff." In a statement, the club said it will not tolerate instances where the "health and safety of its employees are threatened or endangered." "A line was crossed on Wednesday morning, and these events have deeply shaken the club. "Violence is never justified, neither in sport, nor in society."

Relegated Schalke seek police protection from angry fans

An own-goal from Arsenal goalkeeper Bernd Leno handed Everton a 1-0 Premier League win on Friday as around 2,000 fans protested against Gunners owner Stan Kroenke outside the Emirates Stadium.

With both sides chasing places in Europe next season, it was Carlo Ancelotti's side who came out on top with a first win in seven games.

German keeper Leno turned a Richarlison cross into his own goal in the 76th minute to give the Toffees victory.

Arsenal supporters had gathered outside the ground demanding Kroenke stand down after the club's attempt to join the doomed Super League project.

The result left Everton in eighth place, three points off the Champions League places after their first league win at Arsenal since 1996.

Arsenal are ninth, nine points off the top four.

"It was really important to stay attached to the top of the table," Ancelotti told the BBC.

"The performance was good. It's all good news tonight and this gives us confidence for the next games. Finally I can say we are back."

The game produced few chances.

Everton's Gylfi Sigurdsson saw a 30-yard free-kick come back off the crossbar.

Arsenal were furious when a second-half penalty, awarded for a foul by Richarlison on Dani Ceballos, was overturned by VAR for an offside in the build-up.

"The penalty is clear, those decisions have been made after, I don't know how or who by, we cannot see their faces to explain it," said Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta.

"I can see the images 20 times and I don't get it."

An own-goal from Arsenal goalkeeper Bernd Leno handed Everton a 1-0 Premier League win on Friday as around 2,000 fans protested against Gunners owner Stan Kroenke outside the Emirates Stadium.

An own-goal from Arsenal goalkeeper Bernd Leno handed Everton a 1-0 Premier League win on Friday as around 2,000 fans protested against Gunners owner Stan Kroenke outside the Emirates Stadium. With both sides chasing places in Europe next season, it was Carlo Ancelotti's side who came out on top with a first win in seven games. German keeper Leno turned a Richarlison cross into his own goal in the 76th minute to give the Toffees victory. Arsenal supporters had gathered outside the ground demanding Kroenke stand down after the club's attempt to join the doomed Super League project. The result left Everton in eighth place, three points off the Champions League places after their first league win at Arsenal since 1996. Arsenal are ninth, nine points off the top four. "It was really important to stay attached to the top of the table," Ancelotti told the BBC. "The performance was good. It's all good news tonight and this gives us confidence for the next games. Finally I can say we are back." The game produced few chances. Everton's Gylfi Sigurdsson saw a 30-yard free-kick come back off the crossbar. Arsenal were furious when a second-half penalty, awarded for a foul by Richarlison on Dani Ceballos, was overturned by VAR for an offside in the build-up. "The penalty is clear, those decisions have been made after, I don't know how or who by, we cannot see their faces to explain it," said Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta. "I can see the images 20 times and I don't get it."

Everton victory compounds Arsenal misery as fans protest

Treble-chasing Manchester City face a Tottenham side desperate to end their trophy drought in the League Cup final as two members of the failed European Super League clash at Wembley on Sunday.

Just seven days after the bombshell revelation that City and Tottenham were among 12 clubs plotting the breakaway Super League, they will contest the first major silverware of the English season.

Alarmed by the furious public backlash against the Super League, City's Abu Dhabi-based owners were the first to lose their nerve when they pulled out on Tuesday.

City's exit sparked a chain reaction that saw Tottenham withdraw along with fellow Premier League teams Liverpool, Chelsea, Manchester United and Arsenal.

The tournament was dead in the water only 48 hours after its launch.

But amid grovelling apologies from owners, supporters remain furious at the cynical betrayal and there have been calls for sanctions against the six Premier League teams.

Against that explosive backdrop, it is ironic the League Cup will be the focus of attention for two of the Super League founders this weekend.

If the competition -- effectively a closed-shop replacement for the Champions League -- had gone ahead, it was said the increased midweek fixture list could have killed off the League Cup.

Given both clubs would gladly have turned their backs on the League Cup forever, it would be no surprise if there are protesters and dissenting voices among the 8,000 fans allowed into Wembley this weekend.

But for City manager Pep Guardiola and Tottenham caretaker boss Ryan Mason the goal in the build-up to the final has been keeping their players focused on the pitch rather than letting the Super League furore distract them.

After beating Aston Villa 2-1 on Wednesday, City need eight points from their last five league games to win the English title for a third time in four seasons.

On Wednesday, they take on&nbsp;Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League semi-final first leg.

"We deserve to be there. The final every team wants to win and we will travel to London to do a good game and win the title," Guardiola said.

"The Aston Villa game showed we were ready and we'll be ready on Sunday."

<h2>- Wounded Spurs -</h2>

There was good news for Guardiola on Friday when Belgium midfielder Kevin De Bruyne, injured in last weekend's quadruple-ending FA Cup semi-final defeat against Chelsea, and Argentina striker Sergio Aguero, sidelined by a muscle problem, were both declared fit after returning to training.

Tottenham arrive at Wembley wounded by a week that saw Jose Mourinho sacked on Monday, just days after Harry Kane suffered the latest in a long line of ankle injures.

Kane missed Tottenham's 2-1 win over Southampton in the first match of the post-Mourinho era on Wednesday and is not certain to return after failing to train on Friday.

Mourinho's dismissal was triggered by his failure to mount a top-four challenge, while his strained relations with several senior players including Gareth Bale proved debilitating.

"Maybe just to be on the front foot a bit more," Bale said pointedly when asked what might change after Mourinho's exit.

"We want to attack. We're a big team with big players."

At just 29, Mason's unexpected promotion from his role in Tottenham's youth academy makes him the youngest manager in Premier League history.

The former Tottenham midfielder only went into coaching after his playing career was prematurely ended when he suffered a fractured skull playing for Hull in 2017.

Now Mason has a chance to lead the club he supported as a boy to their first trophy since the 2008 League Cup.

At a time when a cabal of greedy owners risked alienating their core audience with the cold-hearted Super League plan, the sight of Mason with his hands on the League Cup trophy would reinforce football's redemptive powers.

Treble-chasing Manchester City face a Tottenham side desperate to end their trophy drought in the League Cup final as two members of the failed European Super League clash at Wembley on Sunday.

Treble-chasing Manchester City face a Tottenham side desperate to end their trophy drought in the League Cup final as two members of the failed European Super League clash at Wembley on Sunday. Just seven days after the bombshell revelation that City and Tottenham were among 12 clubs plotting the breakaway Super League, they will contest the first major silverware of the English season. Alarmed by the furious public backlash against the Super League, City's Abu Dhabi-based owners were the first to lose their nerve when they pulled out on Tuesday. City's exit sparked a chain reaction that saw Tottenham withdraw along with fellow Premier League teams Liverpool, Chelsea, Manchester United and Arsenal. The tournament was dead in the water only 48 hours after its launch. But amid grovelling apologies from owners, supporters remain furious at the cynical betrayal and there have been calls for sanctions against the six Premier League teams. Against that explosive backdrop, it is ironic the League Cup will be the focus of attention for two of the Super League founders this weekend. If the competition -- effectively a closed-shop replacement for the Champions League -- had gone ahead, it was said the increased midweek fixture list could have killed off the League Cup. Given both clubs would gladly have turned their backs on the League Cup forever, it would be no surprise if there are protesters and dissenting voices among the 8,000 fans allowed into Wembley this weekend. But for City manager Pep Guardiola and Tottenham caretaker boss Ryan Mason the goal in the build-up to the final has been keeping their players focused on the pitch rather than letting the Super League furore distract them. After beating Aston Villa 2-1 on Wednesday, City need eight points from their last five league games to win the English title for a third time in four seasons. On Wednesday, they take on Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League semi-final first leg. "We deserve to be there. The final every team wants to win and we will travel to London to do a good game and win the title," Guardiola said. "The Aston Villa game showed we were ready and we'll be ready on Sunday." - Wounded Spurs - There was good news for Guardiola on Friday when Belgium midfielder Kevin De Bruyne, injured in last weekend's quadruple-ending FA Cup semi-final defeat against Chelsea, and Argentina striker Sergio Aguero, sidelined by a muscle problem, were both declared fit after returning to training. Tottenham arrive at Wembley wounded by a week that saw Jose Mourinho sacked on Monday, just days after Harry Kane suffered the latest in a long line of ankle injures. Kane missed Tottenham's 2-1 win over Southampton in the first match of the post-Mourinho era on Wednesday and is not certain to return after failing to train on Friday. Mourinho's dismissal was triggered by his failure to mount a top-four challenge, while his strained relations with several senior players including Gareth Bale proved debilitating. "Maybe just to be on the front foot a bit more," Bale said pointedly when asked what might change after Mourinho's exit. "We want to attack. We're a big team with big players." At just 29, Mason's unexpected promotion from his role in Tottenham's youth academy makes him the youngest manager in Premier League history. The former Tottenham midfielder only went into coaching after his playing career was prematurely ended when he suffered a fractured skull playing for Hull in 2017. Now Mason has a chance to lead the club he supported as a boy to their first trophy since the 2008 League Cup. At a time when a cabal of greedy owners risked alienating their core audience with the cold-hearted Super League plan, the sight of Mason with his hands on the League Cup trophy would reinforce football's redemptive powers.

Man City, Spurs clash in League Cup final after Super League debacle

"Soccernomics" economist Stefan Szymanski says the "pent-up demand" underpinning the concept of a European Super League will not disappear, despite the launch in Britain of a wholesale review into the running of English football.

The 12 elite European clubs pushing the much-vilified concept fell afoul of an arrogant failure to consult and their "mad idea" of making it a US-style closed league without demotion, the British academic told AFP in an interview.

But UEFA, the governing body of football in Europe, must still reckon with pressure to see the continent's greatest clubs play each other more regularly and help deal with the financial mess caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

Szymanski, who teaches sports management at the University of Michigan, has been publishing research into the economics of football for decades, including in the best-selling book "Soccernomics" (2009), co-authored with journalist Simon Kuper.

Szymanski believes that some ideas informing the British review -- such as the German model of fan ownership at clubs -- are a legal and business minefield, and that mandating fan representation on club boards is a more likely route in future.

"(Prime Minister) Boris Johnson is an unmitigated populist, so he's going to go with whatever he thinks is going to buy him popularity. And it just might be that instituting something like that (the German model) might be a good idea," he said.&nbsp;

<h2>- Backlash from fans -</h2>

But any talk of driving out the mostly foreign tycoons who run England's top six clubs risks capital flight, and longer-term consequences for which politicians are ill-prepared, according to Szymanski.&nbsp;

"If I was advising Johnson, one thing I'd say is 'You know what? You buy yourself a lot of short-term popularity by using the law to mandate the German system, but also remember, the next time something goes wrong, it's all on you'.

"Because you have taken over football, you've said that you're in charge, so if there's any problem in the future, people are going to look for you to sort it out."

The Super League proposals involving Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United and Tottenham were the catalyst for the government finally launching its much-delayed review.

The breakaway European Super League plan, which also involved six top clubs from Italy and Spain, collapsed this week after a furious backlash from fans.

The UK government will examine wider questions about the way the sport is run, looking at examples such as the collapse of lower-league Bury, which went into administration last year.

<h2>- Fit and proper? -</h2>

The review will consider creating a new independent regulator for football, and changing the "fit and proper person test" for owners, which came back into contention last year when a Saudi-backed consortium tried to buy Newcastle United.

More widely, UEFA has confirmed the Champions League will be expanded from 2024, but the controversy unleashed by this week's abortive breakaway leaves the 12 clubs grappling with an unprecedented united front from fans and demands for reprisals.

Szymanski said the business case for a revamped European competition is strong, given the continent's biggest clubs are already global brands but are struggling to recover from the pandemic and recoup a greater share of broadcast revenues.

"If they had just said that access to this league would be on something similar to the basis of access to the Champions League, there is nothing anybody could have done about it," said&nbsp;Szymanski.

"And actually it probably wouldn't have been a bad thing... there is pent-up demand to see the best players play against each other."

The proposed league had brought out "a lot of anti-Americanism", Szymanski said, with fans fearful of a radical overhaul of the pyramid system of promotion and relegation that underpins football in Europe.

"Now, whereas when you talk about creating more games among the big clubs in Europe, that's not really about the system, that's just about sport, and therefore I think the commercial logic of creating more of these games is not going to go away."

"Soccernomics" economist Stefan Szymanski says the "pent-up demand" underpinning the concept of a European Super League will not disappear, despite the launch in Britain of a wholesale review into the running of English football.

"Soccernomics" economist Stefan Szymanski says the "pent-up demand" underpinning the concept of a European Super League will not disappear, despite the launch in Britain of a wholesale review into the running of English football. The 12 elite European clubs pushing the much-vilified concept fell afoul of an arrogant failure to consult and their "mad idea" of making it a US-style closed league without demotion, the British academic told AFP in an interview. But UEFA, the governing body of football in Europe, must still reckon with pressure to see the continent's greatest clubs play each other more regularly and help deal with the financial mess caused by the coronavirus pandemic. Szymanski, who teaches sports management at the University of Michigan, has been publishing research into the economics of football for decades, including in the best-selling book "Soccernomics" (2009), co-authored with journalist Simon Kuper. Szymanski believes that some ideas informing the British review -- such as the German model of fan ownership at clubs -- are a legal and business minefield, and that mandating fan representation on club boards is a more likely route in future. "(Prime Minister) Boris Johnson is an unmitigated populist, so he's going to go with whatever he thinks is going to buy him popularity. And it just might be that instituting something like that (the German model) might be a good idea," he said. - Backlash from fans - But any talk of driving out the mostly foreign tycoons who run England's top six clubs risks capital flight, and longer-term consequences for which politicians are ill-prepared, according to Szymanski. "If I was advising Johnson, one thing I'd say is 'You know what? You buy yourself a lot of short-term popularity by using the law to mandate the German system, but also remember, the next time something goes wrong, it's all on you'. "Because you have taken over football, you've said that you're in charge, so if there's any problem in the future, people are going to look for you to sort it out." The Super League proposals involving Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United and Tottenham were the catalyst for the government finally launching its much-delayed review. The breakaway European Super League plan, which also involved six top clubs from Italy and Spain, collapsed this week after a furious backlash from fans. The UK government will examine wider questions about the way the sport is run, looking at examples such as the collapse of lower-league Bury, which went into administration last year. - Fit and proper? - The review will consider creating a new independent regulator for football, and changing the "fit and proper person test" for owners, which came back into contention last year when a Saudi-backed consortium tried to buy Newcastle United. More widely, UEFA has confirmed the Champions League will be expanded from 2024, but the controversy unleashed by this week's abortive breakaway leaves the 12 clubs grappling with an unprecedented united front from fans and demands for reprisals. Szymanski said the business case for a revamped European competition is strong, given the continent's biggest clubs are already global brands but are struggling to recover from the pandemic and recoup a greater share of broadcast revenues. "If they had just said that access to this league would be on something similar to the basis of access to the Champions League, there is nothing anybody could have done about it," said Szymanski. "And actually it probably wouldn't have been a bad thing... there is pent-up demand to see the best players play against each other." The proposed league had brought out "a lot of anti-Americanism", Szymanski said, with fans fearful of a radical overhaul of the pyramid system of promotion and relegation that underpins football in Europe. "Now, whereas when you talk about creating more games among the big clubs in Europe, that's not really about the system, that's just about sport, and therefore I think the commercial logic of creating more of these games is not going to go away."

Commercial logic remains for new European league: 'Soccernomics' author

The Delhi Capitals, who defeated Mumbai Indians by six wickets in their last match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, will be looking to build on their momentum when they take on&nbsp;Sunrisers Hyderabad in their next game in Chennai at the&nbsp;MA Chidambaram Stadium on Sunday, 25 April 2021.&nbsp;The Delhi Capitals Assistant Coach Mohammad Kaif spoke about the key factor for the side's next game, "The way we play Rashid Khan is going to be the key for us on this pitch."

Kaif added that batting on the pitch in Chennai has been difficult, but the experienced JSW and GMR co-owned franchise's&nbsp;batting line-up is certainly up for the challenge.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/starts-like-a-million-dollar-baby-but-goes-down-rapidly-samsons-form-leaves-gambhir-frustrated-379849" hreflang="en">'Starts like a million-dollar baby but goes down rapidly': Samson's form leaves Gambhir frustrated</a>

"Batting has been tough on this pitch (in Chennai), but we have got an experienced batting line-up. Shikhar has been batting really well and Smith batted well in the last game. Amit Mishra bowled beautifully in the last game, and we have Ravichandran Ashwin as well. Marcus Stoinis bowled well with the new ball in the last match and the way Rishabh has been leading the side, especially on a turning track, has been a great sign."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-kieron-pollard-leaves-crease-before-ball-being-bowled-sparks-debate-379821" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Kieron Pollard leaves crease before ball being bowled; sparks debate</a>

When asked about all-rounder Axar Patel's return to the Delhi Capitals squad, Kaif said, "With Axar Patel returning to the squad, the balance of the Delhi Capitals squad is now perfect. He has been a key member of this franchise. He played a major role in the team finishing as runner-up last season and it will be no different this year. Axar, Mishra and Ashwin playing together will be a dream spin bowling attack for us."

The Delhi Capitals, who defeated Mumbai Indians by six wickets in their last match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, will be looking to build on their momentum when they take on Sunrisers Hyderabad in their next game in Chennai at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Sunday, 25 April 2021.

The Delhi Capitals, who defeated Mumbai Indians by six wickets in their last match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, will be looking to build on their momentum when they take on Sunrisers Hyderabad in their next game in Chennai at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Sunday, 25 April 2021. The Delhi Capitals Assistant Coach Mohammad Kaif spoke about the key factor for the side's next game, "The way we play Rashid Khan is going to be the key for us on this pitch." Kaif added that batting on the pitch in Chennai has been difficult, but the experienced JSW and GMR co-owned franchise's batting line-up is certainly up for the challenge. ALSO READ: 'Starts like a million-dollar baby but goes down rapidly': Samson's form leaves Gambhir frustrated "Batting has been tough on this pitch (in Chennai), but we have got an experienced batting line-up. Shikhar has been batting really well and Smith batted well in the last game. Amit Mishra bowled beautifully in the last game, and we have Ravichandran Ashwin as well. Marcus Stoinis bowled well with the new ball in the last match and the way Rishabh has been leading the side, especially on a turning track, has been a great sign." ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Kieron Pollard leaves crease before ball being bowled; sparks debate When asked about all-rounder Axar Patel's return to the Delhi Capitals squad, Kaif said, "With Axar Patel returning to the squad, the balance of the Delhi Capitals squad is now perfect. He has been a key member of this franchise. He played a major role in the team finishing as runner-up last season and it will be no different this year. Axar, Mishra and Ashwin playing together will be a dream spin bowling attack for us."

Playing well against Rashid Khan is going to be key for DC vs SRH, says Mohammad Kaif

The match between Chennai Super Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 has been one of the most thrilling contests in the 14th edition of the tournament. While CSK put a mammoth 220 runs on the scoreboard, KKR almost chased it down despite being 31/5 at one point. <o:p></o:p>

KKR, after a top-order collapse, showed immense grit and determination to take the match close with the likes of Andre Russell, Dinesh Karthik and Pat Cummins playing some mind-boggling strokes all over the park. However, Cummins failed to take KKR over the winning line as the two-time IPL winners fell short of the total by a whisker.<o:p></o:p>

When KKR were reeling at 31/5, Russell brought out the beast in him and whacked the CSK bowlers all over the park. At the time when it was looking as Russell would do the unthinkable and help KKR chase down the massive total, a soft dismissal sent the West Indies all-rounder packing. <o:p></o:p>

Russell was seen sitting on the staircase just outside the dressing room and was all emotional about his dismissal. The all-rounder has now revealed what was going through his mind following that dismissal in the CSK match.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/starts-like-a-million-dollar-baby-but-goes-down-rapidly-samsons-form-leaves-gambhir-frustrated-379849" hreflang="en">'Starts like a million-dollar baby but goes down rapidly': Samson's form leaves Gambhir frustrated</a>

“Well, I was very emotional and I didn’t know how to go to the changing room and face all my teammates after leaving a ball and getting out bowled like that,” Russell told KKR.in.<o:p></o:p>

“You know, the job is not complete, and I wanted to take the team over the line. So I think the emotions got the best of me but staying strong,” he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-kieron-pollard-leaves-crease-before-ball-being-bowled-sparks-debate-379821" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Kieron Pollard leaves crease before ball being bowled; sparks debate</a>

“Once I’m there, you know everything is possible. Yeah, I’ve done it before a lot of times. So fans can know that listen, no doubt even when it’s 100 runs in 20 balls, there’s always a possibility of 20 sixes; who knows?” Russell said.<o:p></o:p>

KKR will take on RR on Saturday in Mumbai as the action in IPL 2021 continues.<o:p></o:p>

The match between Chennai Super Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 has been one of the most thrilling contests in the 14th edition of the tournament.

The match between Chennai Super Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 has been one of the most thrilling contests in the 14th edition of the tournament. While CSK put a mammoth 220 runs on the scoreboard, KKR almost chased it down despite being 31/5 at one point. KKR, after a top-order collapse, showed immense grit and determination to take the match close with the likes of Andre Russell, Dinesh Karthik and Pat Cummins playing some mind-boggling strokes all over the park. However, Cummins failed to take KKR over the winning line as the two-time IPL winners fell short of the total by a whisker. When KKR were reeling at 31/5, Russell brought out the beast in him and whacked the CSK bowlers all over the park. At the time when it was looking as Russell would do the unthinkable and help KKR chase down the massive total, a soft dismissal sent the West Indies all-rounder packing. Russell was seen sitting on the staircase just outside the dressing room and was all emotional about his dismissal. The all-rounder has now revealed what was going through his mind following that dismissal in the CSK match. ALSO READ: 'Starts like a million-dollar baby but goes down rapidly': Samson's form leaves Gambhir frustrated “Well, I was very emotional and I didn’t know how to go to the changing room and face all my teammates after leaving a ball and getting out bowled like that,” Russell told KKR.in. “You know, the job is not complete, and I wanted to take the team over the line. So I think the emotions got the best of me but staying strong,” he added. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Kieron Pollard leaves crease before ball being bowled; sparks debate “Once I’m there, you know everything is possible. Yeah, I’ve done it before a lot of times. So fans can know that listen, no doubt even when it’s 100 runs in 20 balls, there’s always a possibility of 20 sixes; who knows?” Russell said. KKR will take on RR on Saturday in Mumbai as the action in IPL 2021 continues.

Didn't know how to face my teammates: Andre Russell on staircase moment after dismissal vs CSK

26th June 1999 - A day that got carved in the history of Indian cricket as 17-year-old Mithali Raj strode out to bat for the first time.&nbsp;

The adolescent sensation with the sheer coarseness and assurance to perform well for the country, prearranged her way into the record books by scoring an all-around aggregated hundred on debut.&nbsp;

In a male-dominated sport, it is the ascent of Mithali Raj as a youthful adolescent batting wonder to perhaps the best player to have donned the Indian national jersey. She has been one of the flag-bearer of the Indian Women’s cricket team and her influence on the other Women cricketers has been immense.

In a career spanning more than two decades, Mithali Raj has been at the cutting edge of the Indian batting unit and has without any assistance carried the responsibility of scoring runs for the team.

Mithali Raj on Saturday said that the 2022 50-over World Cup in New Zealand will be her ‘swansong’ following 23 renowned years in worldwide cricket.

"It's been 21 years of international cricket and I know 2022 is my swansong, The World Cup," Mithali Raj said during the virtual launch of the book 1971: The Beginning of India's Cricketing Greatness.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/starts-like-a-million-dollar-baby-but-goes-down-rapidly-samsons-form-leaves-gambhir-frustrated-379849" hreflang="en">'Starts like a million-dollar baby but goes down rapidly': Samson's form leaves Gambhir frustrated</a>

"The last year is equal to the 20 years of my international cricket," she added.

"The importance of being in a very good emotional and mental set-up, knowing that there will be very few tours before the World Cup." Indian women are set to play four bilateral series -- away tours in England, Australia, and New Zealand and a home series against West Indies sandwiched in between.

"Every tour is important for me as a batter as to how I am going to get the team to regroup and build a team for the World Cup," she said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-maxwell-to-dhawan-five-players-who-have-rocked-ipl-2021-so-far-379570" hreflang="en">From Maxwell to Dhawan: Five players who have rocked IPL 2021 so far</a>

"Yes, I am very optimistic looking at the girls and in the manner, they have been working with whatever facilities they have in these times and focus and enthusiasm that a series is coming up."

She admitted that fast bowling is one territory that the team needs to enhance and fabricate a pool viewing in the future as Jhulan Goswami additionally hits the business end of her profession.

"I would want the girls to glare back at the opposition instead of looking down. I feel body language is a very important aspect. Look at Virat Kohli, he stares at opposition and the rest of the team does that,"&nbsp;said Mithali Raj. 
&nbsp;

26th June 1999 - A day that got carved in the history of Indian cricket as 17-year-old Mithali Raj strode out to bat for the first time. The adolescent sensation with the sheer coarseness and assurance to perform well for the country, prearranged her way into the record books by scoring an all-around aggregated hundred on debut.

26th June 1999 - A day that got carved in the history of Indian cricket as 17-year-old Mithali Raj strode out to bat for the first time. The adolescent sensation with the sheer coarseness and assurance to perform well for the country, prearranged her way into the record books by scoring an all-around aggregated hundred on debut. In a male-dominated sport, it is the ascent of Mithali Raj as a youthful adolescent batting wonder to perhaps the best player to have donned the Indian national jersey. She has been one of the flag-bearer of the Indian Women’s cricket team and her influence on the other Women cricketers has been immense. In a career spanning more than two decades, Mithali Raj has been at the cutting edge of the Indian batting unit and has without any assistance carried the responsibility of scoring runs for the team. Mithali Raj on Saturday said that the 2022 50-over World Cup in New Zealand will be her ‘swansong’ following 23 renowned years in worldwide cricket. "It's been 21 years of international cricket and I know 2022 is my swansong, The World Cup," Mithali Raj said during the virtual launch of the book 1971: The Beginning of India's Cricketing Greatness. ALSO READ: 'Starts like a million-dollar baby but goes down rapidly': Samson's form leaves Gambhir frustrated "The last year is equal to the 20 years of my international cricket," she added. "The importance of being in a very good emotional and mental set-up, knowing that there will be very few tours before the World Cup." Indian women are set to play four bilateral series -- away tours in England, Australia, and New Zealand and a home series against West Indies sandwiched in between. "Every tour is important for me as a batter as to how I am going to get the team to regroup and build a team for the World Cup," she said. ALSO READ: From Maxwell to Dhawan: Five players who have rocked IPL 2021 so far "Yes, I am very optimistic looking at the girls and in the manner, they have been working with whatever facilities they have in these times and focus and enthusiasm that a series is coming up." She admitted that fast bowling is one territory that the team needs to enhance and fabricate a pool viewing in the future as Jhulan Goswami additionally hits the business end of her profession. "I would want the girls to glare back at the opposition instead of looking down. I feel body language is a very important aspect. Look at Virat Kohli, he stares at opposition and the rest of the team does that," said Mithali Raj.

Mithali Raj: 'I know 2022 World Cup is my swansong'

Sanju Samson started the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 with a breathtaking century against Punjab Kings but the form of Rajasthan Royals captain has since fizzled off completely. With RR struggling to win in the T20 tournament, Samson has looked completely out of form with the bat.

Former Indian cricketer-turned-politician, Gautam Gambhir has expressed his frustration on Samson’s inconsistency as he said that the batsman “starts like a million-dollar baby” but slides down rapidly.<o:p></o:p>

Notably, Gambhir has been one of the biggest admirers of Samson and has publicly backed him to perform well in the biggest of stages. However, Samson’s lack of consistency has left Gambhir irked.<o:p></o:p>

“Sanju Samson starts like a million-dollar baby, who looks like he’s going to take the IPL on fire by scoring 800-900 runs but then suddenly he starts going down rapidly,” Gambhir told ESPNcricinfo.<o:p></o:p>

Samson started IPL 2021 with a 119-run knock against PBKS but has faltered off with 4, 1 and 21 in the tournament.<o:p></o:p>

“He needs to contribute. I’ve spoken earlier as well that the graph can’t be so up and down. There needs to be some balance maintained. You’ve scored a hundred, but you still have to keep contributing. Look at AB de Villiers, look at Virat Kohli. They’ll get a hundred and then they’ll get a 40.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-kieron-pollard-leaves-crease-before-ball-being-bowled-sparks-debate-379821" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Kieron Pollard leaves crease before ball being bowled; sparks debate</a>

“If you see Sanju Samson. There is a hundred and then nothing. He’ll probably get another hundred but that is not how quality or world-class players do. I’m not saying he’s gonna get a 100 every second game but you need contributions. He needs to be tighter. I want to see that responsibility taken by him,” Gambhir added.<o:p></o:p>

While Rajasthan Royals missing the likes of Jofra Archer, Ben Stokes and Liam Livingstone has come as a huge blow to Samson and his team but Gambhir is of the view that it is the perfect opportunity for the Kerala batsman to mature and shine with the willow.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-maxwell-to-dhawan-five-players-who-have-rocked-ipl-2021-so-far-379570" hreflang="en">From Maxwell to Dhawan: Five players who have rocked IPL 2021 so far</a>

“In the absence of Jofra Archer and Ben Stokes, it’s a golden opportunity for him to get mature. He’s at that stage of his career where it could go either way. He’s not a permanent member of the Indian side. He has been given the responsibility to lead RR so it either matures him or he goes the other way,” Gambhir said.<o:p></o:p>

RR take on KKR at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Saturday.<o:p></o:p>

Sanju Samson started the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 with a breathtaking century against Punjab Kings but the form of Rajasthan Royals captain has since fizzled off completely.

Sanju Samson started the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 with a breathtaking century against Punjab Kings but the form of Rajasthan Royals captain has since fizzled off completely. With RR struggling to win in the T20 tournament, Samson has looked completely out of form with the bat. Former Indian cricketer-turned-politician, Gautam Gambhir has expressed his frustration on Samson’s inconsistency as he said that the batsman “starts like a million-dollar baby” but slides down rapidly. Notably, Gambhir has been one of the biggest admirers of Samson and has publicly backed him to perform well in the biggest of stages. However, Samson’s lack of consistency has left Gambhir irked. “Sanju Samson starts like a million-dollar baby, who looks like he’s going to take the IPL on fire by scoring 800-900 runs but then suddenly he starts going down rapidly,” Gambhir told ESPNcricinfo. Samson started IPL 2021 with a 119-run knock against PBKS but has faltered off with 4, 1 and 21 in the tournament. “He needs to contribute. I’ve spoken earlier as well that the graph can’t be so up and down. There needs to be some balance maintained. You’ve scored a hundred, but you still have to keep contributing. Look at AB de Villiers, look at Virat Kohli. They’ll get a hundred and then they’ll get a 40. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Kieron Pollard leaves crease before ball being bowled; sparks debate “If you see Sanju Samson. There is a hundred and then nothing. He’ll probably get another hundred but that is not how quality or world-class players do. I’m not saying he’s gonna get a 100 every second game but you need contributions. He needs to be tighter. I want to see that responsibility taken by him,” Gambhir added. While Rajasthan Royals missing the likes of Jofra Archer, Ben Stokes and Liam Livingstone has come as a huge blow to Samson and his team but Gambhir is of the view that it is the perfect opportunity for the Kerala batsman to mature and shine with the willow. ALSO READ: From Maxwell to Dhawan: Five players who have rocked IPL 2021 so far “In the absence of Jofra Archer and Ben Stokes, it’s a golden opportunity for him to get mature. He’s at that stage of his career where it could go either way. He’s not a permanent member of the Indian side. He has been given the responsibility to lead RR so it either matures him or he goes the other way,” Gambhir said. RR take on KKR at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Saturday.

'Starts like a million-dollar baby but goes down rapidly': Samson's form leaves Gambhir frustrated

Mumbai City FC on Saturday&nbsp;announced&nbsp;that Vignesh Dakshinamurthy has agreed to a fresh four-year contract extension that will keep him at the club until May 2025. 
 
After a breakthrough campaign with the Islanders, the 23-year-old winger-turned-full back has been seen as one of the most promising Indian talents to emerge from Sergio Lobera's Mumbai City FC.&nbsp;Vignesh, who was one of the key figures in the Islanders’ defence, helped Mumbai City FC win the double, clinching the League Winners Shield and the club’s maiden ISL title. 
 
Having featured at the U-23 level for India as an Islander, Vignesh turned out for the reigning ISL champions on 22 occasions in the 2020-21 campaign and scored an outstanding goal against Hyderabad FC, his first for the club. Having committed his future to Mumbai City FC, Vignesh is expected to be a key part of the Islanders’ ISL title defence as well as the club’s maiden AFC Champions League campaign in 2021-22.

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&nbsp; 
Vignesh Dakshinamurthy said:&nbsp;“It’s a great moment for me and my family. I’ve been at Mumbai City FC for three years now and it’s a special feeling committing my next few years to a club that has shown faith and supported me throughout. I take a lot of pride in the fact that I could be a part of a historic season, winning our first trophies for Mumbai City. The vision of the club, the head coach Sergio Lobera and the determination of our group, despite the tough circumstances we’re currently living in, is the reason why we won and why we are a big family.” 
&nbsp; 
“Like I said before, working with a guiding force like Sergio Lobera has been a gift for me. The coach trusted me and my abilities, sometimes more than I did myself, and that’s why I could give my best. I want to continue to give my best to this club and it’s fans and I look forward to sharing more incredible success with the Islanders’ family for a long time to come.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-drops-euro-hosts-dublin-bilbao-mulls-super-league-reprisals-379663" hreflang="en">UEFA drops Euro hosts Dublin, Bilbao, mulls Super League reprisals</a> 
&nbsp; 
Head Coach, Sergio Lobera said:&nbsp;“Vignesh is a young, hardworking boy, and an excellent professional who is eager to improve each and every day. He showed tremendous character throughout the season and he was ready to step in whenever the team needed him. I strongly believe that Vignesh has a bright future ahead of him and I am happy that he will be with us at Mumbai City for the foreseeable future.”

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Mumbai City FC on Saturday announced that Vignesh Dakshinamurthy has agreed to a fresh four-year contract extension that will keep him at the club until May 2025.

Mumbai City FC on Saturday announced that Vignesh Dakshinamurthy has agreed to a fresh four-year contract extension that will keep him at the club until May 2025. After a breakthrough campaign with the Islanders, the 23-year-old winger-turned-full back has been seen as one of the most promising Indian talents to emerge from Sergio Lobera's Mumbai City FC. Vignesh, who was one of the key figures in the Islanders’ defence, helped Mumbai City FC win the double, clinching the League Winners Shield and the club’s maiden ISL title. Having featured at the U-23 level for India as an Islander, Vignesh turned out for the reigning ISL champions on 22 occasions in the 2020-21 campaign and scored an outstanding goal against Hyderabad FC, his first for the club. Having committed his future to Mumbai City FC, Vignesh is expected to be a key part of the Islanders’ ISL title defence as well as the club’s maiden AFC Champions League campaign in 2021-22. ALSO READ: Former Manchester United superstar Ryan Giggs charged with assault against two women Vignesh Dakshinamurthy said: “It’s a great moment for me and my family. I’ve been at Mumbai City FC for three years now and it’s a special feeling committing my next few years to a club that has shown faith and supported me throughout. I take a lot of pride in the fact that I could be a part of a historic season, winning our first trophies for Mumbai City. The vision of the club, the head coach Sergio Lobera and the determination of our group, despite the tough circumstances we’re currently living in, is the reason why we won and why we are a big family.” “Like I said before, working with a guiding force like Sergio Lobera has been a gift for me. The coach trusted me and my abilities, sometimes more than I did myself, and that’s why I could give my best. I want to continue to give my best to this club and it’s fans and I look forward to sharing more incredible success with the Islanders’ family for a long time to come.” ALSO READ: UEFA drops Euro hosts Dublin, Bilbao, mulls Super League reprisals Head Coach, Sergio Lobera said: “Vignesh is a young, hardworking boy, and an excellent professional who is eager to improve each and every day. He showed tremendous character throughout the season and he was ready to step in whenever the team needed him. I strongly believe that Vignesh has a bright future ahead of him and I am happy that he will be with us at Mumbai City for the foreseeable future.” ×

ISL: Mumbai City FC agree contract extension with Vignesh until 2025

Rajasthan Royals and Kolkata Knight will lock horns at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Saturday with the action continuing in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. Knight Riders started their IPL 2021 campaign with a bang but has since failed to seal victories despite coming close a couple of times. Rajasthan Royals, on the other hand, won their sole match in IPL 2021 against Delhi Capitals while losing the other three.<o:p></o:p>

RR and KKR have produced some great encounters over the years but since 2018, KKR have dominated the head-to-head battle. In 23 matches, KKR have been victorious 12 times whereas Rajasthan have managed to won 10 games. &nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

Both RR and KKR desperately need a win to chase the pack ahead. Failure to win today could mean there is a long tournament waiting for the losing side as they will lie bottom of the table.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wickets-are-trash-ben-stokes-slams-slow-chennai-pitch-after-another-low-scoring-match-in-ipl-2021-379737" hreflang="en">Wickets are trash: Ben Stokes slams slow Chennai pitch after another low-scoring match in IPL 2021</a>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">RR vs KKR, IPL 2021: Live Streaming Details<o:p></o:p></h2>

TV Broadcast: Star Sports Network <o:p></o:p>

Venue: Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai <o:p></o:p>

Time in IST: 7.30 PM <o:p></o:p>

Online Live Streaming: Disney+ Hotstar

<h2 class="MsoNormal">RR vs KKR, IPL 2021: Wankhede Stadium pitch report</h2>

Wankhede Stadium has been a batsmen paradise. However, the pacers have been enjoying a bit of assistance at the Wankhede early on. With dew expected to play a major role, the team winning the toss should opt to bowl first and score in excess of 180. Anything less than 180 could turn out to be an easy chase.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-suryakumar-yadav-reveals-why-ishan-kishan-batted-above-him-against-punjab-kings-379748" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Suryakumar Yadav reveals why Ishan Kishan batted above him against Punjab Kings</a>

<h2 class="MsoNormal"><o:p>RR vs KKR, IPL 2021: Mumbai weather forecast</o:p></h2>

The weather in Mumbai would be perfect for cricket on Saturday. While there are no chances of rain in Mumbai on Saturday, the temperature is expected to hover around 33 degrees Celsius. <o:p></o:p>

Rajasthan Royals and Kolkata Knight will lock horns at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Saturday with the action continuing in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021.

Rajasthan Royals and Kolkata Knight will lock horns at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Saturday with the action continuing in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. Knight Riders started their IPL 2021 campaign with a bang but has since failed to seal victories despite coming close a couple of times. Rajasthan Royals, on the other hand, won their sole match in IPL 2021 against Delhi Capitals while losing the other three. RR and KKR have produced some great encounters over the years but since 2018, KKR have dominated the head-to-head battle. In 23 matches, KKR have been victorious 12 times whereas Rajasthan have managed to won 10 games. Both RR and KKR desperately need a win to chase the pack ahead. Failure to win today could mean there is a long tournament waiting for the losing side as they will lie bottom of the table. ALSO READ: Wickets are trash: Ben Stokes slams slow Chennai pitch after another low-scoring match in IPL 2021 RR vs KKR, IPL 2021: Live Streaming Details TV Broadcast: Star Sports Network Venue: Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai Time in IST: 7.30 PM Online Live Streaming: Disney+ Hotstar RR vs KKR, IPL 2021: Wankhede Stadium pitch report Wankhede Stadium has been a batsmen paradise. However, the pacers have been enjoying a bit of assistance at the Wankhede early on. With dew expected to play a major role, the team winning the toss should opt to bowl first and score in excess of 180. Anything less than 180 could turn out to be an easy chase. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Suryakumar Yadav reveals why Ishan Kishan batted above him against Punjab Kings RR vs KKR, IPL 2021: Mumbai weather forecast The weather in Mumbai would be perfect for cricket on Saturday. While there are no chances of rain in Mumbai on Saturday, the temperature is expected to hover around 33 degrees Celsius.

IPL 2021, RR vs KKR: Wankhede Stadium pitch report, Mumbai weather forecast and more

Ajit Agarkar has vigorously censured the pitches utilized in Chennai for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. The former India pacer marked the wicket for Friday's match between Mumbai Indians and Punjab Kings as 'ordinary' since it didn't uphold the lively scoring of runs.&nbsp;

Mumbai Indians' renowned batting line-up could set up only 131 runs against Punjab Kings. Accordingly, the Punjab Kings batted forcefully and chased the total with nine wickets to spare.&nbsp;

In spite of the fact that the Chennai pitch has likewise seen more than 200 runs scored in an innings this season, the wickets have typically been languid and turn agreeable, making it hard for most batsmen to hit through the line.&nbsp;

Ajit Agarkar conceded that it is hard to keep up high-scoring pitches in the midst of Chennai's warmth and IPL 2021's firmly stuffed schedule.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chris-gayle-is-probably-the-best-t20-player-ever-pommie-mbangwa-379751" hreflang="en">Chris Gayle is probably the best T20 player ever: Pommie Mbangwa</a>

"You've got to sympathize with the groundsmen because the games are coming thick and fast but we have consistently seen these sort of pitches which have progressively gotten worse. This is in a way understandable because of the heat in Chennai and the very little time to prepare the wickets. But today was a tough pitch. I mean, it was a pretty ordinary wicket," Ajit Agarkar told ESPNCricinfo.

He also added that the pitches utilised IPL 2021 ought to, at any rate, see scores of 150-160 being made by the teams batting first.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-maxwell-to-dhawan-five-players-who-have-rocked-ipl-2021-so-far-379570" hreflang="en">From Maxwell to Dhawan: Five players who have rocked IPL 2021 so far</a>

"Anything other than 130 that they [Punjab Kings] had to get, they would have had to take some chances a little bit earlier and that's where teams chasing can get into trouble. I have no problem in seeing difficult pitches, you know being a former bowler, but you want to see pitches where you can get 150-160 with teams being able to chase that. If you get 160 on this pitch, I don't think a team will be able to chase that no matter what," added Ajit Agarkar. 
&nbsp;

Ajit Agarkar has vigorously censured the pitches utilized in Chennai for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. The former India pacer marked the wicket for Friday's match between Mumbai Indians and Punjab Kings as 'ordinary' since it didn't uphold the lively scoring of runs.

Ajit Agarkar has vigorously censured the pitches utilized in Chennai for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. The former India pacer marked the wicket for Friday's match between Mumbai Indians and Punjab Kings as 'ordinary' since it didn't uphold the lively scoring of runs. Mumbai Indians' renowned batting line-up could set up only 131 runs against Punjab Kings. Accordingly, the Punjab Kings batted forcefully and chased the total with nine wickets to spare. In spite of the fact that the Chennai pitch has likewise seen more than 200 runs scored in an innings this season, the wickets have typically been languid and turn agreeable, making it hard for most batsmen to hit through the line. Ajit Agarkar conceded that it is hard to keep up high-scoring pitches in the midst of Chennai's warmth and IPL 2021's firmly stuffed schedule. ALSO READ: Chris Gayle is probably the best T20 player ever: Pommie Mbangwa "You've got to sympathize with the groundsmen because the games are coming thick and fast but we have consistently seen these sort of pitches which have progressively gotten worse. This is in a way understandable because of the heat in Chennai and the very little time to prepare the wickets. But today was a tough pitch. I mean, it was a pretty ordinary wicket," Ajit Agarkar told ESPNCricinfo. He also added that the pitches utilised IPL 2021 ought to, at any rate, see scores of 150-160 being made by the teams batting first. ALSO READ: From Maxwell to Dhawan: Five players who have rocked IPL 2021 so far "Anything other than 130 that they [Punjab Kings] had to get, they would have had to take some chances a little bit earlier and that's where teams chasing can get into trouble. I have no problem in seeing difficult pitches, you know being a former bowler, but you want to see pitches where you can get 150-160 with teams being able to chase that. If you get 160 on this pitch, I don't think a team will be able to chase that no matter what," added Ajit Agarkar.

IPL 2021: Ajit Agarkar criticises Chennai pitch used in Mumbai Indians vs Punjab Kings match

Tributes are paid to those whom we love, worship, and regard. They have impacted our lives colossally and involve an extraordinary spot in our hearts. Their character is the one we as a whole long for and in their aura everybody stands hypnotized. The name of the personality we are talking about doesn't just recommend a player yet a 'Demigod' of Indian cricket. His name shook adversaries and energised allies.

His name rose from the dusty roads of Mumbai to each side of the reality where the game is played. The sport of cricket felt fortunate as it was graced by him. His name is Sachin Ramesh Tendulkar. He is a legend and ostensibly one of the best batsmen&nbsp;the world has at any point seen, however, what contacts our heart is that he is the most delightful individual you will at any point run over.

The symbol of the game, a good example to various ages of cricketers and a human second to none, Sachin Tendulkar, one of the best ever, turned 48 today. It has been over a long time since he retired from the game, however, he keeps on holding a unique spot in the hearts of every one of those Indians who were advantaged to see him bat through the 1990s and 2000s. Immensely regarded in the cricketing circles for the manner in which he held himself in at the highest point of his game for a near a quarter of a century.
<img alt="Artist Abhishek Nandkishor creates a paper mosaic of former Indian cricket player Sachin Tendulkar on the eve of his birthday in Mumbai on April 23, 2021." data-caption="Artist Abhishek Nandkishor creates a paper mosaic of former Indian cricket player Sachin Tendulkar on the eve of his birthday in Mumbai on April 23, 2021. (Photo: AFP)" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f5624ac2-6f83-4eef-ad79-168edb604bca" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_98L867.jpg" />
From the time he came into this cricketing world he was not just a player, but also an emotion for many. He has not been someone who just broke records and created new ones, but also set an image that is literally worshiped by the devotees. From that point, Sachin began to acquire notoriety as a wonder. Like each prodigy is presented with immense assumptions and expectations, Sachin was the same. He followed through on individuals' expectations and defended his ability. Be that as it may, this isn't the solitary justification of his high stature.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="Anil Kumble to WION: Selection headache a good thing for Punjab Kings">Anil Kumble to WION: Selection headache a good thing for Punjab Kings</a>

His longevity in the game, consistency, and&nbsp;ability to contribute match-winning knocks were the other prime reasons.&nbsp;The enthusiasm he had for cricket appeared in his exhibitions. Regardless of whether be it his tennis elbow injury or his dad's misfortune, nothing halted him. His name is equivalent to pride and greatness. He committed his 24 years of life, presumably his whole life to the 22 yards and is a paragon in the field of cricket especially when it comes to commitment, hard work, and passion for the sport.

<img alt="Sachin Tendulkar superfan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b3c50712-d779-4c59-807a-8ce1d4ac1844" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_Del6263288.jpg" />

Sachin Tendulkar didn't just play cricket, he lived cricket. Indeed, even achievement didn't have a cost for Sachin. His opponents regarded him as a 'God', yet he took himself to be a player who served the game with his entire heart.

He may be a man of 5.5 feet but his deeds have made him a giant of immeasurable magnitude. His name unites the people of all religions and castes. His name is is enough to arouse a sense of patriotism.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/vvs-laxman-to-wion-delhi-capitals-captaincy-will-help-rishabh-pant-reach-his-potential-376136">VVS Laxman to WION: Delhi Capitals captaincy will help Rishabh Pant reach his potential</a>

Dear Sachin Tendulkar, you were&nbsp;and will stay the justification a grin on the essences&nbsp;of cricket fans. Wish you a Happy Birthday!

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Thank you everyone for your warm wishes. It's made my day special. I am very grateful indeed. 
 
Take care and stay safe. <a href="https://t.co/SwWYPNU73q">pic.twitter.com/SwWYPNU73q</a>
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1385862342609625089?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Tributes are paid to those whom we love, worship, and regard. They have impacted our lives colossally and involve an extraordinary spot in our hearts. Their character is the one we as a whole long for and in their aura everybody stands hypnotized.

Tributes are paid to those whom we love, worship, and regard. They have impacted our lives colossally and involve an extraordinary spot in our hearts. Their character is the one we as a whole long for and in their aura everybody stands hypnotized. The name of the personality we are talking about doesn't just recommend a player yet a 'Demigod' of Indian cricket. His name shook adversaries and energised allies. His name rose from the dusty roads of Mumbai to each side of the reality where the game is played. The sport of cricket felt fortunate as it was graced by him. His name is Sachin Ramesh Tendulkar. He is a legend and ostensibly one of the best batsmen the world has at any point seen, however, what contacts our heart is that he is the most delightful individual you will at any point run over. The symbol of the game, a good example to various ages of cricketers and a human second to none, Sachin Tendulkar, one of the best ever, turned 48 today. It has been over a long time since he retired from the game, however, he keeps on holding a unique spot in the hearts of every one of those Indians who were advantaged to see him bat through the 1990s and 2000s. Immensely regarded in the cricketing circles for the manner in which he held himself in at the highest point of his game for a near a quarter of a century. From the time he came into this cricketing world he was not just a player, but also an emotion for many. He has not been someone who just broke records and created new ones, but also set an image that is literally worshiped by the devotees. From that point, Sachin began to acquire notoriety as a wonder. Like each prodigy is presented with immense assumptions and expectations, Sachin was the same. He followed through on individuals' expectations and defended his ability. Be that as it may, this isn't the solitary justification of his high stature. ALSO READ: Anil Kumble to WION: Selection headache a good thing for Punjab Kings His longevity in the game, consistency, and ability to contribute match-winning knocks were the other prime reasons. The enthusiasm he had for cricket appeared in his exhibitions. Regardless of whether be it his tennis elbow injury or his dad's misfortune, nothing halted him. His name is equivalent to pride and greatness. He committed his 24 years of life, presumably his whole life to the 22 yards and is a paragon in the field of cricket especially when it comes to commitment, hard work, and passion for the sport. Sachin Tendulkar didn't just play cricket, he lived cricket. Indeed, even achievement didn't have a cost for Sachin. His opponents regarded him as a 'God', yet he took himself to be a player who served the game with his entire heart. He may be a man of 5.5 feet but his deeds have made him a giant of immeasurable magnitude. His name unites the people of all religions and castes. His name is is enough to arouse a sense of patriotism. ALSO READ: VVS Laxman to WION: Delhi Capitals captaincy will help Rishabh Pant reach his potential Dear Sachin Tendulkar, you were and will stay the justification a grin on the essences of cricket fans. Wish you a Happy Birthday! Thank you everyone for your warm wishes. It's made my day special. I am very grateful indeed. Take care and stay safe. pic.twitter.com/SwWYPNU73q — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) April 24, 2021 ×

Happy birthday, Sachin Tendulkar - the 'demigod' of Indian cricket

The Mumbai Indians caused a stir when they sent Ishan Kishan over an in-form Suryakumar Yadav against the Punjab Kings.

Ishan Kishan couldn't get moving in the center as he made his way back to the pavilion scoring six runs off 17 deliveries. Then, Suryakumar Yadav sewed up a great 79-run partnership with Rohit Sharma in the wake of coming out to bat at number four.&nbsp;

Answering in the post-match press conference, Suryakumar Yadav clarified the explanation for Ishan Kishan's advancement in the batting order.

"Ishan Kishan's promotion was completely a management's call and we decided collectively that if a left-hander gets out then a left-hander walks in. He and I have been playing a similar role in the past few years. So, I was completely okay with it. We both decided we'll do the same way what everyone decides and we were clear in our plans very much," said Suryakumar Yadav.

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सूर्या दादा चा वादा 🤝<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OneFamily?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OneFamily</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MumbaiIndians?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MumbaiIndians</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MI</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2021</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PBKSvMI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PBKSvMI</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/surya_14kumar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@surya_14kumar</a> <a href="https://t.co/sCTDYekrZn">pic.twitter.com/sCTDYekrZn</a>
— Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) <a href="https://twitter.com/mipaltan/status/1385828348383973377?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wickets-are-trash-ben-stokes-slams-slow-chennai-pitch-after-another-low-scoring-match-in-ipl-2021-379737" hreflang="en">Wickets are trash: Ben Stokes slams slow Chennai pitch after another low-scoring match in IPL 2021</a>

The plan of left-hand-right-hand combination in the middle didn't work for the Mumbai Indians as the Punjab Kings held them down to 26/2 of every seven overs. In spite of Ishan Kishan's disappointment against Punjab, Suryakumar Yadav is idealistic that the adolescent will bob back in the Delhi leg of the league.

"When we reach Delhi, I think things will be completely different" - Suryakumar Yadav

The Mumbai Indians were not at their best in Chennai, with the reigning champions recording just two successes in their five matches at MA Chidambaram Stadium.&nbsp;

In spite of the Punjab Kings pounding Rohit Sharma's side by nine wickets in their most recent experience, Suryakumar Yadav feels MI will be a totally unique side when they take to the field in Delhi one week from now.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-rr-vs-kkr-preview-rajasthan-royals-and-kolkata-knight-riders-fight-for-a-turnaround-379711" hreflang="en">IPL 2021, RR vs KKR Preview: - Rajasthan Royals and Kolkata Knight Riders fight for a turnaround</a>

"Talking about performances, I feel it's all about that confidence what you carry and I feel everyone is hitting the ball really well in the nets. Everyone is really positive in their mindset. It's all about just going out there and expressing themselves. It's just a matter of one game. We don't want to think about what has happened in Chennai. When we reach Delhi, I think things will be completely different, and MI will be a completely different side," Suryakumar Yadav added. 
&nbsp;

The Mumbai Indians caused a stir when they sent Ishan Kishan over an in-form Suryakumar Yadav against the Punjab Kings. Ishan Kishan couldn't get moving in the center as he made his way back to the pavilion scoring six runs off 17 deliveries.

The Mumbai Indians caused a stir when they sent Ishan Kishan over an in-form Suryakumar Yadav against the Punjab Kings. Ishan Kishan couldn't get moving in the center as he made his way back to the pavilion scoring six runs off 17 deliveries. Then, Suryakumar Yadav sewed up a great 79-run partnership with Rohit Sharma in the wake of coming out to bat at number four. Answering in the post-match press conference, Suryakumar Yadav clarified the explanation for Ishan Kishan's advancement in the batting order. "Ishan Kishan's promotion was completely a management's call and we decided collectively that if a left-hander gets out then a left-hander walks in. He and I have been playing a similar role in the past few years. So, I was completely okay with it. We both decided we'll do the same way what everyone decides and we were clear in our plans very much," said Suryakumar Yadav. सूर्या दादा चा वादा 🤝#OneFamily #MumbaiIndians #MI #IPL2021 #PBKSvMI @surya_14kumar pic.twitter.com/sCTDYekrZn — Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) April 24, 2021 × ALSO READ: Wickets are trash: Ben Stokes slams slow Chennai pitch after another low-scoring match in IPL 2021 The plan of left-hand-right-hand combination in the middle didn't work for the Mumbai Indians as the Punjab Kings held them down to 26/2 of every seven overs. In spite of Ishan Kishan's disappointment against Punjab, Suryakumar Yadav is idealistic that the adolescent will bob back in the Delhi leg of the league. "When we reach Delhi, I think things will be completely different" - Suryakumar Yadav The Mumbai Indians were not at their best in Chennai, with the reigning champions recording just two successes in their five matches at MA Chidambaram Stadium. In spite of the Punjab Kings pounding Rohit Sharma's side by nine wickets in their most recent experience, Suryakumar Yadav feels MI will be a totally unique side when they take to the field in Delhi one week from now. ALSO READ: IPL 2021, RR vs KKR Preview: - Rajasthan Royals and Kolkata Knight Riders fight for a turnaround "Talking about performances, I feel it's all about that confidence what you carry and I feel everyone is hitting the ball really well in the nets. Everyone is really positive in their mindset. It's all about just going out there and expressing themselves. It's just a matter of one game. We don't want to think about what has happened in Chennai. When we reach Delhi, I think things will be completely different, and MI will be a completely different side," Suryakumar Yadav added.

IPL 2021: Suryakumar Yadav reveals why Ishan Kishan batted above him against Punjab Kings

Looks like the Punjab Kings figured out the Devil in the Chennai Pitch. KL Rahul called correctly and bravely chose to field and did well to restrict Mumbai Indians to 131/6. On a slow turning pitch, KL Rahul scored a half-century; along with Chris Gayle who scored a breezy 43 off 35 with 2 sixes and 5 fours and they reached the target with 14 balls to spare.

During the mid-innings analysis on Cricbuzz Live, Gautam Bhimani, Shaun Pollock and Pommie Mbangwa felt that the pitch was a very difficult one and Punjab Kings would need to pace out their innings though Mumbai would have done well to score at least 150. Mbangwa said they needed to score at least 35 in the first 6 while Shaun Pollock put the number at 42. Punjab Kings scored 45 in the first 6 and won the match comfortably by 9 wickets.

“You don't buy experience in a supermarket…he is an experienced player, probably the greatest T20 player ever...come this situation he knew exactly what was required by his side and executed. In the beginning, he did not take the ball on or take the boundary riders on..he hit into the gaps. Even when he was going for boundaries, it really was a percentage sort of innings. Because this is a slow surface instead of fighting against it, he seemed to go with it….pressure was all on the bowlers ...it was a masterful innings really good to see an adjustment...respecting the conditions and working according to them," Mbangwa said during Cricbuzz Live.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wickets-are-trash-ben-stokes-slams-slow-chennai-pitch-after-another-low-scoring-match-in-ipl-2021-379737" hreflang="en">Wickets are trash: Ben Stokes slams slow Chennai pitch after another low-scoring match in IPL 2021</a>

“KL Rahul held one end together with his half-century...when it was time to attack, he did that…

Good effort after the brave call.”

Pollock felt it was a tactical win for Punjab. "It was a really good adjustment on their part. It was not his kind of surface. running singles is not his strength but after a point...Chris Gayle negotiated it brilliantly. With all his experience he held his nerve. He didn't panic. That was the impressive part...I must admit the bowlers were brilliant, especially the spinners except for Krunal Pandya….. KL Rahul is a good player of spin….Mumbai tried everything they could. It was a brave call by Rahul to put the team in, on that kind of surface, back it up with the way they bowled and then knock off that score.”

There was a lack of application from Mumbai and Hardik Pandya continued with his poor form for the fifth innings in a row.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-maxwell-to-dhawan-five-players-who-have-rocked-ipl-2021-so-far-379570" hreflang="en">From Maxwell to Dhawan: Five players who have rocked IPL 2021 so far</a>

At the end of the match, RCB stood firmly at the top, unbeaten with 8 points from 4 matches followed by CSK and DC at 6 apiece. Fighting for 4th place are MI and PBKS with 4 points from 5 matches while SRH and KKR are at the bottom with 2 apiece.

Looks like the Punjab Kings figured out the Devil in the Chennai Pitch. KL Rahul called correctly and bravely chose to field and did well to restrict Mumbai Indians to 131/6.

Looks like the Punjab Kings figured out the Devil in the Chennai Pitch. KL Rahul called correctly and bravely chose to field and did well to restrict Mumbai Indians to 131/6. On a slow turning pitch, KL Rahul scored a half-century; along with Chris Gayle who scored a breezy 43 off 35 with 2 sixes and 5 fours and they reached the target with 14 balls to spare. During the mid-innings analysis on Cricbuzz Live, Gautam Bhimani, Shaun Pollock and Pommie Mbangwa felt that the pitch was a very difficult one and Punjab Kings would need to pace out their innings though Mumbai would have done well to score at least 150. Mbangwa said they needed to score at least 35 in the first 6 while Shaun Pollock put the number at 42. Punjab Kings scored 45 in the first 6 and won the match comfortably by 9 wickets. “You don't buy experience in a supermarket…he is an experienced player, probably the greatest T20 player ever...come this situation he knew exactly what was required by his side and executed. In the beginning, he did not take the ball on or take the boundary riders on..he hit into the gaps. Even when he was going for boundaries, it really was a percentage sort of innings. Because this is a slow surface instead of fighting against it, he seemed to go with it….pressure was all on the bowlers ...it was a masterful innings really good to see an adjustment...respecting the conditions and working according to them," Mbangwa said during Cricbuzz Live. ALSO READ: Wickets are trash: Ben Stokes slams slow Chennai pitch after another low-scoring match in IPL 2021 “KL Rahul held one end together with his half-century...when it was time to attack, he did that… Good effort after the brave call.” Pollock felt it was a tactical win for Punjab. "It was a really good adjustment on their part. It was not his kind of surface. running singles is not his strength but after a point...Chris Gayle negotiated it brilliantly. With all his experience he held his nerve. He didn't panic. That was the impressive part...I must admit the bowlers were brilliant, especially the spinners except for Krunal Pandya….. KL Rahul is a good player of spin….Mumbai tried everything they could. It was a brave call by Rahul to put the team in, on that kind of surface, back it up with the way they bowled and then knock off that score.” There was a lack of application from Mumbai and Hardik Pandya continued with his poor form for the fifth innings in a row. ALSO READ: From Maxwell to Dhawan: Five players who have rocked IPL 2021 so far At the end of the match, RCB stood firmly at the top, unbeaten with 8 points from 4 matches followed by CSK and DC at 6 apiece. Fighting for 4th place are MI and PBKS with 4 points from 5 matches while SRH and KKR are at the bottom with 2 apiece.

Chris Gayle is probably the best T20 player ever: Pommie Mbangwa

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Tuesday&nbsp;announced a restructure of its selection system for men's international teams.

As part of the restructure, the role of National Selector, currently held by Ed Smith, who was appointed in spring 2018, will no longer exist, and Smith will leave the ECB at the end April. England have enjoyed success across all formats, including becoming ICC 50-Over World Champions in 2019 and are currently ranked 1st, 1st and 4th across the three formats.

This new structure, developed by Managing Director of England Men's Cricket, Ashley Giles, will give clear accountability to the England Men's Head Coach, Chris Silverwood, who will have overall responsibility for future squad selections from this point.

The Head Coach and the respective red-ball and white-ball Captains, Joe Root and Eoin Morgan, will continue to work together on selecting the final playing eleven.

Supporting this system will be a resource that will provide intelligence from performance analysis, talent ID, scouting, medical and sports science.

There will be further input from the England Men's Performance Director, Mo Bobat and James Taylor, who will see his job title change from England Selector to Head Scout. Coaches aligned to the men's international teams will all feed into this process.

Ashley Giles, Managing Director, England Men's Cricket, said:

"I would like to personally thank Ed for his contribution to the England men's teams over the past three years. Ed's input has helped deliver successes for all our England Teams, and he has worked with commitment and professionalism throughout his time as National Selector. I wish him well in his future endeavours.

"The current process of selecting England teams has been in place for over 120 years. Even though this system has its merits, with advances in technology and a greater information gathering resource at our disposal than ever before, the restructure is in the best interests of helping England men's teams be successful.

"The new structure also makes lines of accountability much clearer, with Chris Silverwood, as Head Coach, taking ultimate responsibility for picking England senior men's squads."

Ed Smith, said:

"It has been a huge privilege to work with great people trying to help England cricket and I am excited about watching England's continued development.

"I've been very lucky to work with James Taylor, and I'm delighted that he will remain part of the new structure. My thanks to the dedicated team of scouts and to all the coaches, data analysts, medics and members of the ECB Pathway, who are available every day of the year at all hours to help England's decision-makers.

"England's two captains, Joe and Eoin, have already completed remarkable achievements in an England shirt. England has two men dedicated to playing cricket in a way that makes the country proud. The role of National Selector has been enjoyable and rewarding, and that is significantly due to my interaction with all of the England players.

"At such a high point for England cricket, I wish Ashley Giles, the coaches and all support staff good fortune over the coming months. I know how hard Ashley and his team work for England cricket. In particular, I'd like to wish Chris Silverwood good luck and every success going forward."

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Tuesday announced a restructure of its selection system for men's international teams. As part of the restructure, the role of National Selector, currently held by Ed Smith, who was appointed in spring 2018, will no longer exist, and Smith will leave the ECB at the end April.

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Tuesday announced a restructure of its selection system for men's international teams. As part of the restructure, the role of National Selector, currently held by Ed Smith, who was appointed in spring 2018, will no longer exist, and Smith will leave the ECB at the end April. England have enjoyed success across all formats, including becoming ICC 50-Over World Champions in 2019 and are currently ranked 1st, 1st and 4th across the three formats. This new structure, developed by Managing Director of England Men's Cricket, Ashley Giles, will give clear accountability to the England Men's Head Coach, Chris Silverwood, who will have overall responsibility for future squad selections from this point. The Head Coach and the respective red-ball and white-ball Captains, Joe Root and Eoin Morgan, will continue to work together on selecting the final playing eleven. Supporting this system will be a resource that will provide intelligence from performance analysis, talent ID, scouting, medical and sports science. There will be further input from the England Men's Performance Director, Mo Bobat and James Taylor, who will see his job title change from England Selector to Head Scout. Coaches aligned to the men's international teams will all feed into this process. Ashley Giles, Managing Director, England Men's Cricket, said: "I would like to personally thank Ed for his contribution to the England men's teams over the past three years. Ed's input has helped deliver successes for all our England Teams, and he has worked with commitment and professionalism throughout his time as National Selector. I wish him well in his future endeavours. "The current process of selecting England teams has been in place for over 120 years. Even though this system has its merits, with advances in technology and a greater information gathering resource at our disposal than ever before, the restructure is in the best interests of helping England men's teams be successful. "The new structure also makes lines of accountability much clearer, with Chris Silverwood, as Head Coach, taking ultimate responsibility for picking England senior men's squads." Ed Smith, said: "It has been a huge privilege to work with great people trying to help England cricket and I am excited about watching England's continued development. "I've been very lucky to work with James Taylor, and I'm delighted that he will remain part of the new structure. My thanks to the dedicated team of scouts and to all the coaches, data analysts, medics and members of the ECB Pathway, who are available every day of the year at all hours to help England's decision-makers. "England's two captains, Joe and Eoin, have already completed remarkable achievements in an England shirt. England has two men dedicated to playing cricket in a way that makes the country proud. The role of National Selector has been enjoyable and rewarding, and that is significantly due to my interaction with all of the England players. "At such a high point for England cricket, I wish Ashley Giles, the coaches and all support staff good fortune over the coming months. I know how hard Ashley and his team work for England cricket. In particular, I'd like to wish Chris Silverwood good luck and every success going forward."

ECB confirms restructuring as head coach Chris Silverwood named selection in-charge

The European Super League said early Wednesday it would consider ways to reshape the group following the departure of all six English clubs.

"Given the current circumstances, we shall reconsider the most appropriate steps to reshape the project," the League said in a statement.

The ESL was designed by the European giants to guarantee revenue from regular matches against one another without the risk of failing to qualify for 15 founder members.

Reaction to the Super League has been scathing, with politicians and football authorities threatening to take legal action against the so-called "dirty dozen", who were told they faced potential bans from domestic and continental competitions.

Only Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, AC Milan, Inter Milan and Juventus are still involved in the project.

Chelsea, Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal, Tottenham and Manchester City had already announced they will not take part in the league.

The European Super League said early Wednesday it would consider ways to reshape the group following the departure of all six English clubs. "Given the current circumstances, we shall reconsider the most appropriate steps to reshape the project," the League said in a statement.

The European Super League said early Wednesday it would consider ways to reshape the group following the departure of all six English clubs. "Given the current circumstances, we shall reconsider the most appropriate steps to reshape the project," the League said in a statement. The ESL was designed by the European giants to guarantee revenue from regular matches against one another without the risk of failing to qualify for 15 founder members. Reaction to the Super League has been scathing, with politicians and football authorities threatening to take legal action against the so-called "dirty dozen", who were told they faced potential bans from domestic and continental competitions. Only Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, AC Milan, Inter Milan and Juventus are still involved in the project. Chelsea, Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal, Tottenham and Manchester City had already announced they will not take part in the league.

European Super League will 'reshape' after clubs withdraw: statement

Chelsea moved into the Premier League's top four after a 0-0 draw against Brighton on Tuesday, but the result was completely overshadowed by the club's role in derailing the controversial European Super League.

Just before kick-off at Stamford Bridge, it was widely reported that Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich had decided to withdraw from the controversial breakaway plan.

While there was no official confirmation from the club, the Blues are understood to be preparing documents to formally quit the tournament.

Manchester City became the first team to officially pull out, with Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal and Tottenham also confirming their exits.

Barcelona, Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid, Juventus, AC Milan and Inter Milan are the only remaining members of a Super League that crumbled before a match was ever played.

Against that dramatic backdrop, Chelsea produced a flat performance, although the draw saw Thomas Tuchel's side move into fourth place above West Ham on goal difference.

"We talk of nothing else but Super League before the match. I was affected so I think the players were affected," Tuchel said.&nbsp;

"The situation was not clear. I was informed like you were informed. You have to accept the distraction.

"We tried to create an atmosphere to win the game but could not. We looked mentally tired."

Chelsea visit West Ham on Saturday in a crucial clash in the race to qualify for next season's Champions League.

Just hours before kick-off, it seems Chelsea would not have to worry about qualifying for Europe thanks to their invitation to the closed-door Super League.

But after resounding condemnation from across the political and sporting spectrum, Chelsea are set to walk away.

Abramovich and chairman Bruce Buck reportedly feared staying in the Super League would seriously damage Chelsea's reputation, therefore undermining their anti-semitism campaigning and community work.

While Stamford Bridge remained empty due to the coronavirus pandemic, around 1,000 fans had staged an angry protest before news of the Super League meltdown broke.

The cheers when Chelsea's imminent exit became public knowledge were as loud as any that greeted goals from the Blues when they fans were last allowed into the stadium.

<h2>- 'The fans have won' -</h2>

Chelsea supporter Dan Silver said: "I'm absolutely delighted that common sense has prevailed. The fans being at Stamford Bridge had an impact I believe.

"This is by far the best decision for the future of the beautiful game. No one should ever underestimate football fans again."

Another unnamed supporter shouted: "The fans have won."

Chelsea were believed to have initially agreed to sign up after fearing they would be left behind financially.

But they have back-tracked following furious criticism that culminated in the protest on their own doorstep.

Chelsea fans had unfurled banners reading: "RIP Football 1863 - 2021", "Created by the poor, stolen by the rich", "We want our cold nights in Stoke" and "Roman do the right thing"

Blue smoke bombs were let off and fans staged a sit-down protest in the road while police attempted to control the crowds.&nbsp;

Former Chelsea keeper Petr Cech, now the club's technical advisor, called on demonstrators to clear the roads to allow the team bus to reach the stadium, shouting "give us time" before being drowned out by angry fans.

By the time the players walked onto the pitch, the news had broken that the Super League scheme was in tatters.

"It felt like a monopoly trying to control the competition for profit and not the supporters. It was universal in how everyone got behind the issue. Hopefully we can move forward," Brighton boss Graham Potter said.

Tuchel's concern that his team would lose focus amid the Super League drama proved spot on in a tepid encounter.

It was Brighton who almost snatched the points in the 80th minute when Danny Welbeck's curler smacked off the far post.

Brighton had Ben White sent off for a second booking in stoppage-time, but they held on to move seven points clear of the relegation zone.

Chelsea moved into the Premier League's top four after a 0-0 draw against Brighton on Tuesday, but the result was completely overshadowed by the club's role in derailing the controversial European Super League.

Chelsea moved into the Premier League's top four after a 0-0 draw against Brighton on Tuesday, but the result was completely overshadowed by the club's role in derailing the controversial European Super League. Just before kick-off at Stamford Bridge, it was widely reported that Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich had decided to withdraw from the controversial breakaway plan. While there was no official confirmation from the club, the Blues are understood to be preparing documents to formally quit the tournament. Manchester City became the first team to officially pull out, with Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal and Tottenham also confirming their exits. Barcelona, Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid, Juventus, AC Milan and Inter Milan are the only remaining members of a Super League that crumbled before a match was ever played. Against that dramatic backdrop, Chelsea produced a flat performance, although the draw saw Thomas Tuchel's side move into fourth place above West Ham on goal difference. "We talk of nothing else but Super League before the match. I was affected so I think the players were affected," Tuchel said. "The situation was not clear. I was informed like you were informed. You have to accept the distraction. "We tried to create an atmosphere to win the game but could not. We looked mentally tired." Chelsea visit West Ham on Saturday in a crucial clash in the race to qualify for next season's Champions League. Just hours before kick-off, it seems Chelsea would not have to worry about qualifying for Europe thanks to their invitation to the closed-door Super League. But after resounding condemnation from across the political and sporting spectrum, Chelsea are set to walk away. Abramovich and chairman Bruce Buck reportedly feared staying in the Super League would seriously damage Chelsea's reputation, therefore undermining their anti-semitism campaigning and community work. While Stamford Bridge remained empty due to the coronavirus pandemic, around 1,000 fans had staged an angry protest before news of the Super League meltdown broke. The cheers when Chelsea's imminent exit became public knowledge were as loud as any that greeted goals from the Blues when they fans were last allowed into the stadium. - 'The fans have won' - Chelsea supporter Dan Silver said: "I'm absolutely delighted that common sense has prevailed. The fans being at Stamford Bridge had an impact I believe. "This is by far the best decision for the future of the beautiful game. No one should ever underestimate football fans again." Another unnamed supporter shouted: "The fans have won." Chelsea were believed to have initially agreed to sign up after fearing they would be left behind financially. But they have back-tracked following furious criticism that culminated in the protest on their own doorstep. Chelsea fans had unfurled banners reading: "RIP Football 1863 - 2021", "Created by the poor, stolen by the rich", "We want our cold nights in Stoke" and "Roman do the right thing" Blue smoke bombs were let off and fans staged a sit-down protest in the road while police attempted to control the crowds. Former Chelsea keeper Petr Cech, now the club's technical advisor, called on demonstrators to clear the roads to allow the team bus to reach the stadium, shouting "give us time" before being drowned out by angry fans. By the time the players walked onto the pitch, the news had broken that the Super League scheme was in tatters. "It felt like a monopoly trying to control the competition for profit and not the supporters. It was universal in how everyone got behind the issue. Hopefully we can move forward," Brighton boss Graham Potter said. Tuchel's concern that his team would lose focus amid the Super League drama proved spot on in a tepid encounter. It was Brighton who almost snatched the points in the 80th minute when Danny Welbeck's curler smacked off the far post. Brighton had Ben White sent off for a second booking in stoppage-time, but they held on to move seven points clear of the relegation zone.

Chelsea back in top four, but Super League drama overshadows Brighton draw

The proposed European Super League appeared dead in the water on Wednesday after all six English clubs withdrew following a furious backlash from fans and threats from football authorities.

Manchester City, Manchester United, Liverpool, Chelsea, Tottenham and Arsenal were six of the 12 clubs that signed up to the breakaway competition that guaranteed spots each year and billions of dollars for founding members.

But reaction to the plans has been scathing, with politicians and football chiefs threatening to take legal action against the so-called "dirty dozen", who were told they faced potential bans from domestic and continental competitions.

City were the first to withdraw, followed by United, Liverpool, Arsenal, Tottenham and finally Chelsea -- just 48 hours after the Super League was first announced.

That leaves just six Spanish and Italian sides -- Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, AC Milan, Inter Milan and Juventus -- still involved.

Manchester United announced the departure of executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward, and Arsenal apologised to fans for their "mistake".

"As a result of listening to you and the wider football community over recent days we are withdrawing from the proposed Super League," an Arsenal statement said.

"We made a mistake, and we apologise for it."

The Super League said it would look at ways to rescue the venture, insisting: "The existing system does not work."

"We shall consider the most appropriate steps to reshape the project," a statement said.

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin said he was "delighted" and the English Football Association also welcomed the withdrawals, praising fans for "their influential and unequivocal voice".

Reigning European champions Bayern Munich and French giants Paris Saint-Germain both came out strongly opposed to the breakaway league.

Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson tweeted a statement on behalf of the squad, saying: "We don't like it and we don't want it to happen. This is our collective position."

On a day of intense drama, Manchester United announced that Woodward would step down from his role at the end of 2021.

Earlier, Ceferin, addressing the owners, particularly of the Premier League teams involved, said there was still time for clubs to pull out.

"Some will say it is greed, some complete ignorance of England's football culture," he said. "There's still time to change your mind. Everyone makes mistakes."

FIFA president Gianni Infantino issued a stark warning to the heavyweight clubs who had signed up to the ESL.

"It is our task to protect the European sport model, so if some elect to go their own way then they must live with the consequences of their choices," Infantino said at UEFA's congress in Switzerland.

<h2>- 'RIP football' -</h2>

More than 1,000 fans gathered outside Chelsea's Stamford Bridge stadium to protest against the plan before Tuesday's Premier League match against Brighton, which ended in a 0-0 draw.

Fans held up signs reading: "RIP Football 1863 - 2021", "Created by the poor, stolen by the rich", "We want our cold nights in Stoke" and "Roman do the right thing" -- in reference to Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich.

Speaking after reports emerged that Chelsea were set to pull out, supporter Tom Cunningham said he was "over the moon".

"Greed has not prospered," he said. "We are here, we're the people, multiple fans, standing against disgusting greed and we've triumphed."

British Prime Minster Boris Johnson earlier met Premier League clubs, the FA and fan groups, vowing to do all in his power to kill the ESL plan.

He tweeted, before City's decision was confirmed: "The decision by Chelsea and Manchester City is –- if confirmed –- absolutely the right one and I commend them for it."

The 20-team ESL was designed by the European giants to guarantee revenue from regular matches against one another without the risk of failing to qualify for 15 founder members.

<h2>- 'It's not a sport' -</h2>

However, the plan was fiercely criticised by even their own players and managers for acting as a closed shop.

"It's not a sport when the relation between effort and reward doesn't exist," said Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola.

"It's not a sport when success is already guaranteed, it's not a sport if it doesn't matter if you lose."

The 12 teams had signed up to share in an initial pot of more than 3.5 billion euros ($4.2 billion) -- vastly boosting their revenues, which have been badly hit during the coronavirus pandemic.

Under the proposals, announced late Sunday, five more clubs would have had to qualify annually for the midweek competition, joining the 15 permanent members.

Currently, teams have to qualify for the Champions League each year through their national competitions, and survive a group phase before reaching the high-profile latter stages.

The proposed European Super League appeared dead in the water on Wednesday after all six English clubs withdrew following a furious backlash from fans and threats from football authorities.

The proposed European Super League appeared dead in the water on Wednesday after all six English clubs withdrew following a furious backlash from fans and threats from football authorities. Manchester City, Manchester United, Liverpool, Chelsea, Tottenham and Arsenal were six of the 12 clubs that signed up to the breakaway competition that guaranteed spots each year and billions of dollars for founding members. But reaction to the plans has been scathing, with politicians and football chiefs threatening to take legal action against the so-called "dirty dozen", who were told they faced potential bans from domestic and continental competitions. City were the first to withdraw, followed by United, Liverpool, Arsenal, Tottenham and finally Chelsea -- just 48 hours after the Super League was first announced. That leaves just six Spanish and Italian sides -- Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, AC Milan, Inter Milan and Juventus -- still involved. Manchester United announced the departure of executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward, and Arsenal apologised to fans for their "mistake". "As a result of listening to you and the wider football community over recent days we are withdrawing from the proposed Super League," an Arsenal statement said. "We made a mistake, and we apologise for it." The Super League said it would look at ways to rescue the venture, insisting: "The existing system does not work." "We shall consider the most appropriate steps to reshape the project," a statement said. UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin said he was "delighted" and the English Football Association also welcomed the withdrawals, praising fans for "their influential and unequivocal voice". Reigning European champions Bayern Munich and French giants Paris Saint-Germain both came out strongly opposed to the breakaway league. Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson tweeted a statement on behalf of the squad, saying: "We don't like it and we don't want it to happen. This is our collective position." On a day of intense drama, Manchester United announced that Woodward would step down from his role at the end of 2021. Earlier, Ceferin, addressing the owners, particularly of the Premier League teams involved, said there was still time for clubs to pull out. "Some will say it is greed, some complete ignorance of England's football culture," he said. "There's still time to change your mind. Everyone makes mistakes." FIFA president Gianni Infantino issued a stark warning to the heavyweight clubs who had signed up to the ESL. "It is our task to protect the European sport model, so if some elect to go their own way then they must live with the consequences of their choices," Infantino said at UEFA's congress in Switzerland. - 'RIP football' - More than 1,000 fans gathered outside Chelsea's Stamford Bridge stadium to protest against the plan before Tuesday's Premier League match against Brighton, which ended in a 0-0 draw. Fans held up signs reading: "RIP Football 1863 - 2021", "Created by the poor, stolen by the rich", "We want our cold nights in Stoke" and "Roman do the right thing" -- in reference to Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich. Speaking after reports emerged that Chelsea were set to pull out, supporter Tom Cunningham said he was "over the moon". "Greed has not prospered," he said. "We are here, we're the people, multiple fans, standing against disgusting greed and we've triumphed." British Prime Minster Boris Johnson earlier met Premier League clubs, the FA and fan groups, vowing to do all in his power to kill the ESL plan. He tweeted, before City's decision was confirmed: "The decision by Chelsea and Manchester City is –- if confirmed –- absolutely the right one and I commend them for it." The 20-team ESL was designed by the European giants to guarantee revenue from regular matches against one another without the risk of failing to qualify for 15 founder members. - 'It's not a sport' - However, the plan was fiercely criticised by even their own players and managers for acting as a closed shop. "It's not a sport when the relation between effort and reward doesn't exist," said Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola. "It's not a sport when success is already guaranteed, it's not a sport if it doesn't matter if you lose." The 12 teams had signed up to share in an initial pot of more than 3.5 billion euros ($4.2 billion) -- vastly boosting their revenues, which have been badly hit during the coronavirus pandemic. Under the proposals, announced late Sunday, five more clubs would have had to qualify annually for the midweek competition, joining the 15 permanent members. Currently, teams have to qualify for the Champions League each year through their national competitions, and survive a group phase before reaching the high-profile latter stages.

Super League in ruins as all six English clubs pull out

The United Arab Emirates player Qadeer Ahmed Khan has been banned from all cricket for five years after admitting to breaching six counts of the&nbsp;ICC Anti-Corruption Code&nbsp;for which he was charged in October 2019.

Khan admitted to being in breach of the following provisions under the Code:

Breach of Article 2.4.4&nbsp;– failing to disclose to the ACU full details of any approaches or invitations received to engage in conduct that would amount to Corrupt Conduct under the Code in relation to the Zimbabwe v UAE series in April 2019.

Breach of Article 2.3.2&nbsp;– disclosing Inside Information in August 2019 in circumstances where he knew or should have known that the information might be used for betting purposes.

Breach of Article 2.4.4&nbsp;– failing to disclose to the ACU full details of any approaches or invitations received to engage in conduct that would amount to Corrupt Conduct under the Code in relation to the Netherlands v UAE series in August 2019.

Breach of Article 2.4.5&nbsp;– failing to disclose to the ACU full details of any facts or matters that came to his attention that may evidence Corrupt Conduct under the Code by another Participant.

Breach of Article 2.4.6&nbsp;– failing or refusing to cooperate with an investigation being carried out by the ACU in relation to possible Corrupt Conduct under the Code.&nbsp;

Breach of Article 2.4.7&nbsp;– obstructing or delaying an ACU investigation including by concealing information that may be relevant to that investigation.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-rankings-babar-azam-moves-to-second-spot-in-t20is-virat-kohli-remains-fifth-378992" hreflang="en">ICC Rankings: Babar Azam moves to second spot in T20Is, Virat Kohli remains fifth</a>

Khan’s period of ineligibility has been backdated to October&nbsp;16,&nbsp;2019, when he was provisionally suspended.

Alex Marshall, ICC General Manager – Integrity Unit, said: “Qadeer Khan is an experienced international cricketer who has received anti-corruption training. He should have avoided the people he knew were corrupt and reported any suspicions immediately.

“He has accepted he did wrong and requested an agreed sanction in place of a Tribunal. His five-year period of ineligibility is a reflection of the seriousness of his breaches and the number of charges. He has accepted responsibility for his actions and expressed regret for those he has let down.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kuldeep-yadav-names-two-toughest-batsmen-in-ipl-and-two-legends-of-the-tournament-378858" hreflang="en">Kuldeep Yadav names two toughest batsmen in IPL and two legends of the tournament</a>

<h2>Mehardeep Chhayakar charged with six counts of breaching ICC Anti-Corruption Code</h2>

Meanwhile, also in the UAE, the ICC has charged Mehardeep Chhayakar, who has played domestic cricket in Ajman (UAE) with six counts of breaching the ICC Anti-Corruption Code.

The ICC laid the charges on its own behalf as well as on behalf of Cricket Canada as its Designated Anti-Corruption Official for the purposes of the Global T20 2019.

These charges are supplemental to charges of October 16, 2019:

Breach of Article 2.1.1&nbsp;– Attempting to contrive to fix aspects of the Zimbabwe v UAE series in April 2019, or being party to an effort to try and fix aspects of the Zimbabwe series.

Breach of Article 2.1.4&nbsp;– Seeking to entice, induce and/or solicit a Participant to get involved in an effort to fix aspects of matches in the Zimbabwe v UAE series in April 2019.

Breach of Article 2.1.1&nbsp;– Attempting to contrive to fix aspects of matches in the GT20 in 2019 or being party to an effort to try and fix aspects of matches in the GT20 event.

Breach of Article 2.1.4&nbsp;– Seeking to entice, induce and/or solicit a to get involved in an effort to fix aspects of matches in the GT20 event.

Breach of Article 2.4.6&nbsp;– Failing or refusing to cooperate with an ACU investigation, without compelling justification.

Breach of Article 2.4.7&nbsp;– obstructing an ongoing ACU investigation through a failure to attend an interview or interviews with the ACU.

Chhayakar has 14 days from April 15,&nbsp;2021 to respond to the charges.

The United Arab Emirates player Qadeer Ahmed Khan has been banned from all cricket for five years after admitting to breaching six counts of the ICC Anti-Corruption Code for which he was charged in October 2019.

The United Arab Emirates player Qadeer Ahmed Khan has been banned from all cricket for five years after admitting to breaching six counts of the ICC Anti-Corruption Code for which he was charged in October 2019. Khan admitted to being in breach of the following provisions under the Code: Breach of Article 2.4.4 – failing to disclose to the ACU full details of any approaches or invitations received to engage in conduct that would amount to Corrupt Conduct under the Code in relation to the Zimbabwe v UAE series in April 2019. Breach of Article 2.3.2 – disclosing Inside Information in August 2019 in circumstances where he knew or should have known that the information might be used for betting purposes. Breach of Article 2.4.4 – failing to disclose to the ACU full details of any approaches or invitations received to engage in conduct that would amount to Corrupt Conduct under the Code in relation to the Netherlands v UAE series in August 2019. Breach of Article 2.4.5 – failing to disclose to the ACU full details of any facts or matters that came to his attention that may evidence Corrupt Conduct under the Code by another Participant. Breach of Article 2.4.6 – failing or refusing to cooperate with an investigation being carried out by the ACU in relation to possible Corrupt Conduct under the Code. Breach of Article 2.4.7 – obstructing or delaying an ACU investigation including by concealing information that may be relevant to that investigation. ALSO READ: ICC Rankings: Babar Azam moves to second spot in T20Is, Virat Kohli remains fifth Khan’s period of ineligibility has been backdated to October 16, 2019, when he was provisionally suspended. Alex Marshall, ICC General Manager – Integrity Unit, said: “Qadeer Khan is an experienced international cricketer who has received anti-corruption training. He should have avoided the people he knew were corrupt and reported any suspicions immediately. “He has accepted he did wrong and requested an agreed sanction in place of a Tribunal. His five-year period of ineligibility is a reflection of the seriousness of his breaches and the number of charges. He has accepted responsibility for his actions and expressed regret for those he has let down.” ALSO READ: Kuldeep Yadav names two toughest batsmen in IPL and two legends of the tournament Mehardeep Chhayakar charged with six counts of breaching ICC Anti-Corruption Code Meanwhile, also in the UAE, the ICC has charged Mehardeep Chhayakar, who has played domestic cricket in Ajman (UAE) with six counts of breaching the ICC Anti-Corruption Code. The ICC laid the charges on its own behalf as well as on behalf of Cricket Canada as its Designated Anti-Corruption Official for the purposes of the Global T20 2019. These charges are supplemental to charges of October 16, 2019: Breach of Article 2.1.1 – Attempting to contrive to fix aspects of the Zimbabwe v UAE series in April 2019, or being party to an effort to try and fix aspects of the Zimbabwe series. Breach of Article 2.1.4 – Seeking to entice, induce and/or solicit a Participant to get involved in an effort to fix aspects of matches in the Zimbabwe v UAE series in April 2019. Breach of Article 2.1.1 – Attempting to contrive to fix aspects of matches in the GT20 in 2019 or being party to an effort to try and fix aspects of matches in the GT20 event. Breach of Article 2.1.4 – Seeking to entice, induce and/or solicit a to get involved in an effort to fix aspects of matches in the GT20 event. Breach of Article 2.4.6 – Failing or refusing to cooperate with an ACU investigation, without compelling justification. Breach of Article 2.4.7 – obstructing an ongoing ACU investigation through a failure to attend an interview or interviews with the ACU. Chhayakar has 14 days from April 15, 2021 to respond to the charges.

Qadeer banned for five years under ICC Anti-Corruption Code

Serie A giants Juventus, one of the driving forces behind the breakaway European Super League, on Wednesday said that the project could not go ahead as planned following the withdrawal of the majority of the 12 founding clubs.

"(Juventus) believes that at present there are limited chances that the project be completed in the form originally conceived," the Turin club said in a statement.

Atletico Madrid, Inter and AC Milan had earlier pulled their name out of the European Super League following the footsteps of all English Premier League clubs in what was the final nail in the coffin for the controversial tournament.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/super-league-left-for-dead-as-atletico-madrid-inter-and-ac-milan-pull-out-379022" hreflang="en">Super League left for dead as Atletico Madrid, Inter and AC Milan pull out</a>

The withdrawal by Manchester City, Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur on Tuesday, just 48 hours after the league's unveiling, followed a furious reaction from fans, officials and politicians.

Atletico Madrid, AC Milan Inter announced they were pulling out on Wednesday with just four clubs – Real Madrid, Barcelona, Juventus – remaining in the Super League scheme of things.

The Super League promised guaranteed entry for its 15 founding clubs and billions of dollars in payments. Most of the clubs have huge debts and wage bills, and suffered a sharp drop in revenues during the COVID-19 pandemic.

IN PICS:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-fans-took-on-multi-billionaires-to-take-down-european-super-league-379039" hreflang="en">How fans took on multi-billionaires to take down European Super League</a>

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin and described the English clubs as "back in the fold".

"I said yesterday that it is admirable to admit a mistake and these clubs made a big mistake," Ceferin said in a statement.

Even Juventus president Agnelli had earlier told Reuters that he doesn’t see the tournament going ahead after the withdrawal of Premier League clubs.

Serie A giants Juventus, one of the driving forces behind the breakaway European Super League, on Wednesday said that the project could not go ahead as planned following the withdrawal of the majority of the 12 founding clubs.

Serie A giants Juventus, one of the driving forces behind the breakaway European Super League, on Wednesday said that the project could not go ahead as planned following the withdrawal of the majority of the 12 founding clubs. "(Juventus) believes that at present there are limited chances that the project be completed in the form originally conceived," the Turin club said in a statement. Atletico Madrid, Inter and AC Milan had earlier pulled their name out of the European Super League following the footsteps of all English Premier League clubs in what was the final nail in the coffin for the controversial tournament. ALSO READ: Super League left for dead as Atletico Madrid, Inter and AC Milan pull out The withdrawal by Manchester City, Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur on Tuesday, just 48 hours after the league's unveiling, followed a furious reaction from fans, officials and politicians. Atletico Madrid, AC Milan Inter announced they were pulling out on Wednesday with just four clubs – Real Madrid, Barcelona, Juventus – remaining in the Super League scheme of things. The Super League promised guaranteed entry for its 15 founding clubs and billions of dollars in payments. Most of the clubs have huge debts and wage bills, and suffered a sharp drop in revenues during the COVID-19 pandemic. IN PICS: How fans took on multi-billionaires to take down European Super League UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin and described the English clubs as "back in the fold". "I said yesterday that it is admirable to admit a mistake and these clubs made a big mistake," Ceferin said in a statement. Even Juventus president Agnelli had earlier told Reuters that he doesn’t see the tournament going ahead after the withdrawal of Premier League clubs.

Italian giants Juventus accepts European Super League failure

Atletico Madrid, Inter and AC Milan have followed all six English Premier League clubs in quitting the breakaway European Super League on Wednesday as the latest development gave another hammer blow to a project that prompted worldwide criticism.

The withdrawal by Manchester City, Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur on Tuesday, just 48 hours after the league's unveiling, followed a furious reaction from fans, officials and politicians.

Atletico Madrid, AC Milan Inter announced they were pulling out on Wednesday with just four clubs – Real Madrid, Barcelona, Juventus&nbsp;– remaining in the Super League scheme of things.

"For the club, harmony is essential between all the groups that make up the rojiblanco family, especially our fans," Atletico said in a statement.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/european-super-league-cant-go-ahead-without-premier-league-teams-esl-founder-andrea-agnelli-378998" hreflang="en">European Super League can't go ahead without Premier League teams: ESL founder Andrea Agnelli</a>

“The voice and concerns of supporters throughout the world about the Super League project have been strong and clear, and our Club must remain sensitive and attentive to the opinion of those who love this sport," AC Milan said in a statement.

Even Juventus president and one of the ESL founders, Andrea Agnelli acknowledged it was an impossible task to proceed without the English clubs.

The Super League promised guaranteed entry for its founding clubs and billions of dollars in payments. Most of the clubs have huge debts and wage bills, and suffered a sharp drop in revenues during the coronavirus pandemic.

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin and described the English clubs as "back in the fold".

"I said yesterday that it is admirable to admit a mistake and these clubs made a big mistake," Ceferin said in a statement.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/six-ways-to-say-goodbye-how-english-clubs-announced-super-league-pull-outs-378927" hreflang="en">Six ways to say goodbye: How English clubs announced Super League pull-outs</a>

"But they are back in the fold now and I know they have a lot to offer not just to our competitions but to the whole of the European game.

"The important thing now is that we move on, rebuild the unity that the game enjoyed before this and move forward together."

(With AFP inputs)

Atletico Madrid, Inter and AC Milan have followed all six English Premier League clubs in quitting the breakaway European Super League on Wednesday as the latest development gave another hammer blow to a project that prompted worldwide criticism.

Atletico Madrid, Inter and AC Milan have followed all six English Premier League clubs in quitting the breakaway European Super League on Wednesday as the latest development gave another hammer blow to a project that prompted worldwide criticism. The withdrawal by Manchester City, Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur on Tuesday, just 48 hours after the league's unveiling, followed a furious reaction from fans, officials and politicians. Atletico Madrid, AC Milan Inter announced they were pulling out on Wednesday with just four clubs – Real Madrid, Barcelona, Juventus – remaining in the Super League scheme of things. "For the club, harmony is essential between all the groups that make up the rojiblanco family, especially our fans," Atletico said in a statement. ALSO READ: European Super League can't go ahead without Premier League teams: ESL founder Andrea Agnelli “The voice and concerns of supporters throughout the world about the Super League project have been strong and clear, and our Club must remain sensitive and attentive to the opinion of those who love this sport," AC Milan said in a statement. Even Juventus president and one of the ESL founders, Andrea Agnelli acknowledged it was an impossible task to proceed without the English clubs. The Super League promised guaranteed entry for its founding clubs and billions of dollars in payments. Most of the clubs have huge debts and wage bills, and suffered a sharp drop in revenues during the coronavirus pandemic. UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin and described the English clubs as "back in the fold". "I said yesterday that it is admirable to admit a mistake and these clubs made a big mistake," Ceferin said in a statement. ALSO READ: Six ways to say goodbye: How English clubs announced Super League pull-outs "But they are back in the fold now and I know they have a lot to offer not just to our competitions but to the whole of the European game. "The important thing now is that we move on, rebuild the unity that the game enjoyed before this and move forward together." (With AFP inputs)

Super League left for dead as Atletico Madrid, Inter and AC Milan pull out

Breakaway European Super League founder and Juventus chairman Andrea Agnelli on Wednesday said the much-talked-about&nbsp;league cannot go ahead after six English clubs - Manchester City, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal withdrew late on Tuesday.

Asked whether the project could still happen after the exits, Agnelli told Reuters: "To be frank and honest no, evidently that is not the case."

Twelve of Europe's leading soccer clubs announced a breakaway league on Sunday but after 48 hours of intense criticism and political opposition, the six English clubs pulled out on Tuesday. While the move to quit ESL was welcomed by all, the remaining six teams - Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, Juventus, AC Milan and Inter - have constantly&nbsp;been bashed by the football lovers.&nbsp;

Agnelli said he remained convinced that European football needed change and he had no regrets about the way the breakaway attempt was made.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/super-league-in-ruins-as-all-six-english-clubs-pull-out-378930" hreflang="en">Super League in ruins as all six English clubs pull out</a>

"I remain convinced of the beauty of that project," Agnelli said, stating it would have created the best competition in the world.

"But admittedly ... I mean, I don't think that that project is now still up and running," he said.

Atletico Madrid joined Inter Milan on Wednesday have also pulled&nbsp;out of the project.

The founding members of the league were English clubs Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur, Italy's Juventus, Inter and AC Milan, and Spain's Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico.

Liverpool's principal owner John Henry apologised in a video on the club's website and social media on Wednesday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/six-ways-to-say-goodbye-how-english-clubs-announced-super-league-pull-outs-378927" hreflang="en">Six ways to say goodbye: How English clubs announced Super League pull-outs</a>

"It goes without saying but should be said that the project put forward was never going to stand without the support of the fans," he said.

"I alone am responsible for the unnecessary negativity brought forward over the past couple of days. It's something I won't forget. And shows the power the fans have today and will rightly continue to have."

Having triggered an enormous backlash from players, fans and football authorities, the Super League had said late on Tuesday it would reconsider and look to "reshape" the project, while stopping short of throwing in the towel.

Breakaway European Super League founder and Juventus chairman Andrea Agnelli on Wednesday said the much-talked-about league cannot go ahead after six English clubs - Manchester City, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal withdrew late on Tuesday.

Breakaway European Super League founder and Juventus chairman Andrea Agnelli on Wednesday said the much-talked-about league cannot go ahead after six English clubs - Manchester City, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal withdrew late on Tuesday. Asked whether the project could still happen after the exits, Agnelli told Reuters: "To be frank and honest no, evidently that is not the case." Twelve of Europe's leading soccer clubs announced a breakaway league on Sunday but after 48 hours of intense criticism and political opposition, the six English clubs pulled out on Tuesday. While the move to quit ESL was welcomed by all, the remaining six teams - Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, Juventus, AC Milan and Inter - have constantly been bashed by the football lovers. Agnelli said he remained convinced that European football needed change and he had no regrets about the way the breakaway attempt was made. ALSO READ: Super League in ruins as all six English clubs pull out "I remain convinced of the beauty of that project," Agnelli said, stating it would have created the best competition in the world. "But admittedly ... I mean, I don't think that that project is now still up and running," he said. Atletico Madrid joined Inter Milan on Wednesday have also pulled out of the project. The founding members of the league were English clubs Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur, Italy's Juventus, Inter and AC Milan, and Spain's Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico. Liverpool's principal owner John Henry apologised in a video on the club's website and social media on Wednesday. ALSO READ: Six ways to say goodbye: How English clubs announced Super League pull-outs "It goes without saying but should be said that the project put forward was never going to stand without the support of the fans," he said. "I alone am responsible for the unnecessary negativity brought forward over the past couple of days. It's something I won't forget. And shows the power the fans have today and will rightly continue to have." Having triggered an enormous backlash from players, fans and football authorities, the Super League had said late on Tuesday it would reconsider and look to "reshape" the project, while stopping short of throwing in the towel.

European Super League can't go ahead without Premier League teams: ESL founder Andrea Agnelli

In a candid conversation with Indian women’s cricketer Jemimah Rodrigues, Ravindra Jadeja revealed that he regrets getting out in the 2019 World Cup semi-finals against New Zealand. When asked if he could go back in history and choose to win the WC semis in either 2016 or 2019, Jadeja instantly chose the latter and said,&nbsp;“I was playing well in that particular game. We were almost about to win the game but then I got out! That’s the game I wanted to win for my country.”

Further diving deep in nostalgia, Jadeja also chose his first IPL win when he donned Rajasthan Royals colours under Shane Warne ahead of the championship CSK won, when they made a comeback in 2018.

“I think the first victory is always memorable because that is where my journey started in the IPL and I was part of the team," the ace CSK all-rounder told Rodrigues on Dream11’s Dil Ya Dimaag.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-harbhajan-sreesanth-slap-gate-to-ms-dhonis-anger-top-ipl-controversies-through-the-years-378405" hreflang="en">From Harbhajan-Sreesanth slap gate to MS Dhoni's anger: Top IPL controversies through the years</a>

Known for his sharp bowling skills, Jadeja admitted that he likes batting over bowling in batsmen dominated country like India, he said, “I will go with my batting because India is a country full of batsmen and whoever scores runs is more famous, as the team is known for its batting.”

An ultra-fit athlete, Jadeja stated that he never wants to be run-out. He said,&nbsp;“In Cricket, a run-out means giving away the wicket for free. Since childhood, we have been taught by our coaches to not get run-out. There are other ways a batsman can be dismissed, a run-out is not one”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/very-important-to-follow-protocols-virat-kohli-gives-message-to-india-amid-covid-19-spike-watch-378864" hreflang="en">Very important to follow protocols': Virat Kohli gives message to India amid Covid-19 spike - Watch</a>

Watch the full video of Jemimah Rodrigues in a fun discussion with Ravindra Jadeja:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
.<a href="https://twitter.com/JemiRodrigues?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JemiRodrigues</a> has some tough choices for <a href="https://twitter.com/imjadeja?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imjadeja</a> to pick from in our latest edition of Dil Ya Dimaag. Find out ki woh dil se khelte hai ya dimaag se. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamHaiTohMazaaHai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamHaiTohMazaaHai</a><a href="https://t.co/hq5h5ogXWJ">https://t.co/hq5h5ogXWJ</a>
— Dream11 (@Dream11) <a href="https://twitter.com/Dream11/status/1384755905049153539?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

In a candid conversation with Indian women’s cricketer Jemimah Rodrigues, Ravindra Jadeja revealed that he regrets getting out in the 2019 World Cup semi-finals against New Zealand.

In a candid conversation with Indian women’s cricketer Jemimah Rodrigues, Ravindra Jadeja revealed that he regrets getting out in the 2019 World Cup semi-finals against New Zealand. When asked if he could go back in history and choose to win the WC semis in either 2016 or 2019, Jadeja instantly chose the latter and said, “I was playing well in that particular game. We were almost about to win the game but then I got out! That’s the game I wanted to win for my country.” Further diving deep in nostalgia, Jadeja also chose his first IPL win when he donned Rajasthan Royals colours under Shane Warne ahead of the championship CSK won, when they made a comeback in 2018. “I think the first victory is always memorable because that is where my journey started in the IPL and I was part of the team," the ace CSK all-rounder told Rodrigues on Dream11’s Dil Ya Dimaag. ALSO READ: From Harbhajan-Sreesanth slap gate to MS Dhoni's anger: Top IPL controversies through the years Known for his sharp bowling skills, Jadeja admitted that he likes batting over bowling in batsmen dominated country like India, he said, “I will go with my batting because India is a country full of batsmen and whoever scores runs is more famous, as the team is known for its batting.” An ultra-fit athlete, Jadeja stated that he never wants to be run-out. He said, “In Cricket, a run-out means giving away the wicket for free. Since childhood, we have been taught by our coaches to not get run-out. There are other ways a batsman can be dismissed, a run-out is not one” ALSO READ: Very important to follow protocols': Virat Kohli gives message to India amid Covid-19 spike - Watch Watch the full video of Jemimah Rodrigues in a fun discussion with Ravindra Jadeja: .@JemiRodrigues has some tough choices for @imjadeja to pick from in our latest edition of Dil Ya Dimaag. Find out ki woh dil se khelte hai ya dimaag se. #TeamHaiTohMazaaHaihttps://t.co/hq5h5ogXWJ — Dream11 (@Dream11) April 21, 2021 ×

'I wanted to win for my country': Ravindra Jadeja regrets getting out in the 2019 World Cup semi-finals

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