<p>England forward Harry Kane suffered a worrying ankle injury ahead of next week's League Cup final after scoring twice in Tottenham Hotspur's 2-2 draw away to Everton in the Premier League on Friday.</p>

<p>Gylfi Sigurdsson also grabbed two goals for Everton in a result that did little for either side's European hopes.</p>

<p>Kane, expected to lead England's attack in this year's coronavirus delayed European Championships, went off in stoppage time towards the end of the match after rolling his ankle when challenged in the box at an Everton corner.</p>

<p>"It is too early to say something," Tottenham manager Jose Mourinho told Sky Sports when asked afterwards about Kane's injury.</p>

<p>"For him to leave the pitch with a few minutes to go is obviously because he felt something.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Let me be optimistic and believe that he has time to recover. Let's see.</p>

<p>"It's obvious he's a very important player for us. I cannot say much or speculate."</p>

<p>Kane's 20th league goal of the season put Spurs ahead in the 27th minute at Goodison Park only for Sigurdsson to equalise soon afterwards from the penalty spot.</p>

<p>It was the reverse story in the second half, Sigurdsson getting his second in the 62nd minute before Kane levelled six minutes later.</p>

<p>Spurs remain seventh, five points off the top four having played one game more than West Ham.</p>

<p>Mourinho said of Kane's double: "It was great finishing.</p>

<p>"Two beautiful goals but not a surprise for the ones who see him do it every day in training."</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Mourinho had little time for Paul Pogba's recent criticism of his management style when he was in charge of Manchester United.</p>

<p>Pogba accused Mourinho of "going against players" and making them feel like "they don't exist any more."</p>

<p>But Mourinho, who made France midfielder Pogba the world's most expensive player when he brought him to Old Trafford in 2016, insisted Friday: "I would like to say that I couldn't care less what he says. I am not interested at all."</p>

<h2>- 'Keep fighting' -</h2>

<p>Everton were left a place and one point further back than Tottenham, but do have a game in hand on Mourinho's side.</p>

<p>"It was probably the best we played at home this season," said Everton manager Carlo Ancelotti.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We were unlucky. We did easy mistakes and when you do mistakes against Harry Kane you are condemned.</p>

<p>"We have more difficulties to reach Europe but we have to keep fighting. We still have (the) possibility, playing like tonight."</p>

<p>After an uninspiring opening, Spurs broke the deadlock with their first effort on target.</p>

<p>Everton's Michael Keane missed Tanguy Ndombele's cross and in the process allowed Kane to control the ball and shoot into the bottom corner past England team-mate Jordan Pickford.</p>

<p>This was Kane's 20th goal of the Premier League season -- the fifth time in his career he had achieved the feat.</p>

<p>Only Alan Shearer (seven) and Sergio Agüero (six) have done so in more Premier League seasons.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But the Londoners' lead lasted barely four minutes, with Everton equalising after Sergio Reguilon charged into James Rodriguez and Sigurdsson beat Hugo Lloris from the penalty spot.</p>

<p>Lloris kept the game all square come half-time, however, by denying both Rodriguez and Richarlison with fine saves.</p>

<p>Spurs then squandered several chances to regain the lead and they were punished for their wastefulness when Iceland's Sigurdsson fired into the far corner following a pull-back from Seamus Coleman.</p>

<p>But Kane had his second goal when he pounced from close range after Everton's Mason Holgate and Keane collided in the Merseysiders' box.</p>


England forward Harry Kane suffered a worrying ankle injury ahead of next week's League Cup final after scoring twice in Tottenham Hotspur's 2-2 draw away to Everton in the Premier League on Friday.

England forward Harry Kane suffered a worrying ankle injury ahead of next week's League Cup final after scoring twice in Tottenham Hotspur's 2-2 draw away to Everton in the Premier League on Friday. Gylfi Sigurdsson also grabbed two goals for Everton in a result that did little for either side's European hopes. Kane, expected to lead England's attack in this year's coronavirus delayed European Championships, went off in stoppage time towards the end of the match after rolling his ankle when challenged in the box at an Everton corner. "It is too early to say something," Tottenham manager Jose Mourinho told Sky Sports when asked afterwards about Kane's injury. "For him to leave the pitch with a few minutes to go is obviously because he felt something. "Let me be optimistic and believe that he has time to recover. Let's see. "It's obvious he's a very important player for us. I cannot say much or speculate." Kane's 20th league goal of the season put Spurs ahead in the 27th minute at Goodison Park only for Sigurdsson to equalise soon afterwards from the penalty spot. It was the reverse story in the second half, Sigurdsson getting his second in the 62nd minute before Kane levelled six minutes later. Spurs remain seventh, five points off the top four having played one game more than West Ham. Mourinho said of Kane's double: "It was great finishing. "Two beautiful goals but not a surprise for the ones who see him do it every day in training." Meanwhile, Mourinho had little time for Paul Pogba's recent criticism of his management style when he was in charge of Manchester United. Pogba accused Mourinho of "going against players" and making them feel like "they don't exist any more." But Mourinho, who made France midfielder Pogba the world's most expensive player when he brought him to Old Trafford in 2016, insisted Friday: "I would like to say that I couldn't care less what he says. I am not interested at all." - 'Keep fighting' - Everton were left a place and one point further back than Tottenham, but do have a game in hand on Mourinho's side. "It was probably the best we played at home this season," said Everton manager Carlo Ancelotti. "We were unlucky. We did easy mistakes and when you do mistakes against Harry Kane you are condemned. "We have more difficulties to reach Europe but we have to keep fighting. We still have (the) possibility, playing like tonight." After an uninspiring opening, Spurs broke the deadlock with their first effort on target. Everton's Michael Keane missed Tanguy Ndombele's cross and in the process allowed Kane to control the ball and shoot into the bottom corner past England team-mate Jordan Pickford. This was Kane's 20th goal of the Premier League season -- the fifth time in his career he had achieved the feat. Only Alan Shearer (seven) and Sergio Agüero (six) have done so in more Premier League seasons. But the Londoners' lead lasted barely four minutes, with Everton equalising after Sergio Reguilon charged into James Rodriguez and Sigurdsson beat Hugo Lloris from the penalty spot. Lloris kept the game all square come half-time, however, by denying both Rodriguez and Richarlison with fine saves. Spurs then squandered several chances to regain the lead and they were punished for their wastefulness when Iceland's Sigurdsson fired into the far corner following a pull-back from Seamus Coleman. But Kane had his second goal when he pounced from close range after Everton's Mason Holgate and Keane collided in the Merseysiders' box.

Ankle injury clouds Kane double as Spurs draw with Everton

Punjab Kings' Shahrukh Khan talks about his knock against Chennai Super Kings, learnings from IPL, his role as finisher, conversations with Chris Gayle, Nicholas Pooran among others.

IPL: Conversations with Gayle, Pooran helping me grow: Shahrukh Khan

Chennai Super Kings head coach Stephen Fleming talks about the match against Punjab Kings, MS Dhoni and his 200 appearances for CSK, Deepak Chahar's performance and more.

Heartbeat of CSK: Stephen Fleming's special praise for MS Dhoni after 200th appearance

<p class="MsoNormal">Indian batsman Hanuma Vihari is currently plying his trade for County club Warwickshire as a short-term cover for Pieter Malan. While Vihari was one of the heroes for India in the Test series against Australia, he ended up tearing his hamstring and was ruled out of the series against England as well. Vihari went unsold in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 auction but was roped in by Warwickshire.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Vihari, who has been preparing for India’s upcoming tour of England, took a blinder of a catch at mid-wicket to dismiss Steven Mullaney for 31. While Mullaney pulled a shorter delivery towards the cow corner, Vihari was alert at the edge of the 30-yard-circle and jumped to complete the one-handed stunner.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravindra-jadeja-considered-for-grade-a-contract-didnt-get-approval-reports-378172" hreflang="en">Ravindra Jadeja considered for Grade A+ contract, didn't get approval: Reports</a></strong></p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Watch the stunning catch by Hanuma Vihari here:</h2>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">𝗩𝗜𝗛𝗔𝗥𝗜!<br />
<br />
WHAT A CATCH. 🙌<br />
<br />
Match Centre 🖥 <a href="https://t.co/0efkMHnNAw">https://t.co/0efkMHnNAw</a><br />
<br />
🐻<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YouBears?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YouBears</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NOTvWAR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NOTvWAR</a> <a href="https://t.co/N2y9LC101Y">pic.twitter.com/N2y9LC101Y</a></p>
— Warwickshire CCC 🏏 (@WarwickshireCCC) <a href="https://twitter.com/WarwickshireCCC/status/1382690841232343041?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Indian batsman is part of a strong Warwickshire squad featuring the likes of Dom Sibley, Olly Stone and former England all-rounder Tim Bresnan. Vihari, with the bat, was dismissed for a 23-ball duck but made contributions in the field.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-selects-9-venues-for-icc-t20-world-cup-2021-in-india-reports-378114" hreflang="en">BCCI selects 9 venues for ICC T20 World Cup 2021 in India: Reports</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Vihari has been one of the key players for Team India in away conditions. While the batsman is yet to play a home Test match, Vihari has played a pivotal role in India’s tours of Australia and West Indies. After impressing in two tours of Australia, a lot of eyeballs would be on Vihari when India later tour England for the five-match Test series.</p>

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Indian batsman Hanuma Vihari is currently plying his trade for County club Warwickshire as a short-term cover for Pieter Malan. While Vihari was one of the heroes for India in the Test series against Australia, he ended up tearing his hamstring and was ruled out of the series against England as well.

Indian batsman Hanuma Vihari is currently plying his trade for County club Warwickshire as a short-term cover for Pieter Malan. While Vihari was one of the heroes for India in the Test series against Australia, he ended up tearing his hamstring and was ruled out of the series against England as well. Vihari went unsold in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 auction but was roped in by Warwickshire. Vihari, who has been preparing for India’s upcoming tour of England, took a blinder of a catch at mid-wicket to dismiss Steven Mullaney for 31. While Mullaney pulled a shorter delivery towards the cow corner, Vihari was alert at the edge of the 30-yard-circle and jumped to complete the one-handed stunner. ALSO READ: Ravindra Jadeja considered for Grade A+ contract, didn't get approval: Reports Watch the stunning catch by Hanuma Vihari here: 𝗩𝗜𝗛𝗔𝗥𝗜! WHAT A CATCH. 🙌 Match Centre 🖥 https://t.co/0efkMHnNAw 🐻#YouBears | #NOTvWAR pic.twitter.com/N2y9LC101Y — Warwickshire CCC 🏏 (@WarwickshireCCC) April 15, 2021 × The Indian batsman is part of a strong Warwickshire squad featuring the likes of Dom Sibley, Olly Stone and former England all-rounder Tim Bresnan. Vihari, with the bat, was dismissed for a 23-ball duck but made contributions in the field. ALSO READ: BCCI selects 9 venues for ICC T20 World Cup 2021 in India: Reports Vihari has been one of the key players for Team India in away conditions. While the batsman is yet to play a home Test match, Vihari has played a pivotal role in India’s tours of Australia and West Indies. After impressing in two tours of Australia, a lot of eyeballs would be on Vihari when India later tour England for the five-match Test series. ×

Watch: India's Hanuma Vihari takes stunning catch for Warwickshire in County Championship

<p>The 25-member Women’s Hockey Core probable group for the Tokyo Olympic Games will return to SAI, Bengaluru for the National Coaching Camp after a 10-day break.&nbsp;The group will report on 18 April and undergo mandatory quarantine before commencing their preparations for the Tokyo Olympic Games.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p data-ogsb="white">In January, the Indian Women’s Team toured Argentina where they played seven matches between their junior team, B team and the senior squad ranked no.2 in the world. This was the team’s first tour in 12 months. In February, the team travelled to Dusseldorf, Germany where they played four matches against their senior side.&nbsp;</p>

<p data-ogsb="white"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-to-field-teams-for-2028-los-angeles-olympics-womens-team-to-play-in-2022-cwg-378111" hreflang="en">BCCI to field teams for 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, women's team to play in 2022 CWG</a></strong></p>

<p data-ogsb="white">“These exposure tours would not have been possible if not for the efforts of Hockey India and SAI. Getting these matches were absolutely important for us to analyse the level we are at and the work required to improve in specific areas ahead of the Olympic Games in July. In the upcoming camp too, we will be focusing on these areas and also keeping up with our fitness will be a priority,” stated Chief Coach Sjoerd Marijne.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p data-ogsb="white">The 25-member probable list includes goalkeepers Savita, Rajani Etimarpu&nbsp;and Bichu Devi Kharibam.&nbsp;</p>

<p data-ogsb="white"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/biden-backs-japan-pm-on-holding-safe-and-secure-olympic-games-378108" hreflang="en">Biden backs Japan PM on holding 'safe and secure' Olympic Games</a></strong></p>

<p data-ogsb="white">The defenders selected for the national camp includes Deep Grace Ekka, Reena Khokhar, Salima Tete, Manpreet Kaur, Gurjit Kaur and Nisha. Nikki Pradhan, Monika, Neha, Lilima Minz, Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam and Namita Toppo are the midfielders called up for the national camp while forwards Rani, Lalremsiami, Vandana Katariya, Navjot Kaur, Navneet Kaur, Rajwinder Kaur, Jyoti, Sharmila Devi, Udita, Rashmita Minz will also report for the camp.&nbsp;</p>


The 25-member Women’s Hockey Core probable group for the Tokyo Olympic Games will return to SAI, Bengaluru for the National Coaching Camp after a 10-day break. The group will report on 18 April and undergo mandatory quarantine before commencing their preparations for the Tokyo Olympic Games.

The 25-member Women’s Hockey Core probable group for the Tokyo Olympic Games will return to SAI, Bengaluru for the National Coaching Camp after a 10-day break. The group will report on 18 April and undergo mandatory quarantine before commencing their preparations for the Tokyo Olympic Games. In January, the Indian Women’s Team toured Argentina where they played seven matches between their junior team, B team and the senior squad ranked no.2 in the world. This was the team’s first tour in 12 months. In February, the team travelled to Dusseldorf, Germany where they played four matches against their senior side. ALSO READ: BCCI to field teams for 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, women's team to play in 2022 CWG “These exposure tours would not have been possible if not for the efforts of Hockey India and SAI. Getting these matches were absolutely important for us to analyse the level we are at and the work required to improve in specific areas ahead of the Olympic Games in July. In the upcoming camp too, we will be focusing on these areas and also keeping up with our fitness will be a priority,” stated Chief Coach Sjoerd Marijne. The 25-member probable list includes goalkeepers Savita, Rajani Etimarpu and Bichu Devi Kharibam. ALSO READ: Biden backs Japan PM on holding 'safe and secure' Olympic Games The defenders selected for the national camp includes Deep Grace Ekka, Reena Khokhar, Salima Tete, Manpreet Kaur, Gurjit Kaur and Nisha. Nikki Pradhan, Monika, Neha, Lilima Minz, Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam and Namita Toppo are the midfielders called up for the national camp while forwards Rani, Lalremsiami, Vandana Katariya, Navjot Kaur, Navneet Kaur, Rajwinder Kaur, Jyoti, Sharmila Devi, Udita, Rashmita Minz will also report for the camp.

Indian women’s hockey core group returns to national camp

<p>The JSW and GMR co-owned franchise Delhi Capitals, who went down fighting against Rajasthan Royals on Thursday, will be looking to bounce back when they take on Punjab Kings in their third encounter of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 at the&nbsp;Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Sunday.</p>

<p>While speaking about taking on the Punjab Kings, Delhi Capitals' fast bowler&nbsp;Anrich Nortje expressed that the Delhi franchise cannot underestimate any team in the IPL 2021, "There's no team that's got a bad team so every side is really competitive, and it can come off for anyone on any day. We are definitely not going to underestimate anyone and hopefully, we can bring our A-game."</p>

<p>When asked about the make-up of the Delhi Capitals squad, the South African said, "We are unfortunately missing Shreyas (Iyer), but we definitely have a great combination of players. We have got a great bowling line-up as well. It's just about picking the right team on the right wicket and conditions. We definitely have a lot of options in our bowling line-up, which is really nice to have and hopefully we can make the best of the conditions and the different players that we have got."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">📽️ | <a href="https://twitter.com/RickyPonting?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RickyPonting</a>'s Dressing Room speech after <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RRvDC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RRvDC</a> 👉🏻 Leave it to the Boss to lift up the spirits of the DC boys with all the positives from an absolute thriller 💙<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YehHaiNayiDilli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YehHaiNayiDilli</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2021</a> <a href="https://t.co/JRAkkSssE7">pic.twitter.com/JRAkkSssE7</a></p>
— Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiCapitals/status/1383359707927121922?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-host-broadcaster-enjoy-blockbuster-viewership-for-opening-match-fails-to-break-ipl-2020-record-378133" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Host broadcaster enjoy blockbuster viewership for opening match, fails to break IPL 2020 record</a></strong></p>

<p>Nortje had to spend an extended period of time in quarantine due to a false-positive result for COVID-19. However, the fast bowler re-joined the camp on 16 April 2021 after testing negative thrice.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Ten days in the room was quite a lot for me. It was nice to get out, run around and bowl a bit. I really enjoyed it and hopefully, I can build it up from here on," signed off&nbsp;Nortje&nbsp;</p>

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The JSW and GMR co-owned franchise Delhi Capitals, who went down fighting against Rajasthan Royals on Thursday, will be looking to bounce back when they take on Punjab Kings in their third encounter of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Sunday.

The JSW and GMR co-owned franchise Delhi Capitals, who went down fighting against Rajasthan Royals on Thursday, will be looking to bounce back when they take on Punjab Kings in their third encounter of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Sunday. While speaking about taking on the Punjab Kings, Delhi Capitals' fast bowler Anrich Nortje expressed that the Delhi franchise cannot underestimate any team in the IPL 2021, "There's no team that's got a bad team so every side is really competitive, and it can come off for anyone on any day. We are definitely not going to underestimate anyone and hopefully, we can bring our A-game." When asked about the make-up of the Delhi Capitals squad, the South African said, "We are unfortunately missing Shreyas (Iyer), but we definitely have a great combination of players. We have got a great bowling line-up as well. It's just about picking the right team on the right wicket and conditions. We definitely have a lot of options in our bowling line-up, which is really nice to have and hopefully we can make the best of the conditions and the different players that we have got." 📽️ | @RickyPonting's Dressing Room speech after #RRvDC 👉🏻 Leave it to the Boss to lift up the spirits of the DC boys with all the positives from an absolute thriller 💙#YehHaiNayiDilli #IPL2021 pic.twitter.com/JRAkkSssE7 — Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) April 17, 2021 × ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Host broadcaster enjoy blockbuster viewership for opening match, fails to break IPL 2020 record Nortje had to spend an extended period of time in quarantine due to a false-positive result for COVID-19. However, the fast bowler re-joined the camp on 16 April 2021 after testing negative thrice. "Ten days in the room was quite a lot for me. It was nice to get out, run around and bowl a bit. I really enjoyed it and hopefully, I can build it up from here on," signed off Nortje ×

IPL 2021: Hoping to bring our A-game against Punjab Kings, says Anrich Nortje

<p class="MsoNormal">The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) recently announced the annual contract list for its players. While the list welcomed some new faces in the likes of Shubman Gill and Mohammad Siraj, others like Hardik Pandya received a promotion. However, ace all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja retained his Grade A contract and wasn’t named in the A+ category, which included the likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Jasprit Bumrah. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">A+ category has an annual income of INR 7 crore whereas Grade A guarantees an annual salary of INR 5 crore. According to reports, there were talks of Jadeja being included in A+ category but the BCCI went against the proposal and kept the Saurashtra all-rounder in Grade A.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">According to Cricbuzz, the BCCI insiders have revealed that Jadeja was considered for the Grade A+ category. However, the report didn’t reveal why Jadeja wasn’t handed a promotion.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-such-a-great-talent-brian-lara-on-rcbs-devdutt-padikkal-378158" hreflang="en">IPL 2021- 'Such a great talent': Brian Lara on RCB's Devdutt Padikkal</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">One of the reasons could be that Jadeja has missed plenty of international cricket due to injuries. While he missed a part of India’s tour of Australia, the all-rounder was completely ruled out of the home series against England.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Former Team India chief selector, MSK Prasad opined on the matter as he said the southpaw is a genuine contender for ICC Rankings and he can’t see any reason why he wasn’t included in A+ Grade. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/heartbeat-flemings-special-praise-for-ms-dhoni-after-200th-csk-appearance-in-ipl-378124" hreflang="en">'Heartbeat': Fleming's special praise for MS Dhoni after 200th CSK appearance in IPL</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“Jadeja is a genuine A+ candidate. Those who play all formats and have good ICC rankings are included in the list. I cannot see any reason why he was not considered for A + Grade,” Prasad told Cricbuzz.<o:p></o:p></p>


The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) recently announced the annual contract list for its players. While the list welcomed some new faces in the likes of Shubman Gill and Mohammad Siraj, others like Hardik Pandya received a promotion.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) recently announced the annual contract list for its players. While the list welcomed some new faces in the likes of Shubman Gill and Mohammad Siraj, others like Hardik Pandya received a promotion. However, ace all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja retained his Grade A contract and wasn’t named in the A+ category, which included the likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Jasprit Bumrah. A+ category has an annual income of INR 7 crore whereas Grade A guarantees an annual salary of INR 5 crore. According to reports, there were talks of Jadeja being included in A+ category but the BCCI went against the proposal and kept the Saurashtra all-rounder in Grade A. According to Cricbuzz, the BCCI insiders have revealed that Jadeja was considered for the Grade A+ category. However, the report didn’t reveal why Jadeja wasn’t handed a promotion. ALSO READ: IPL 2021- 'Such a great talent': Brian Lara on RCB's Devdutt Padikkal One of the reasons could be that Jadeja has missed plenty of international cricket due to injuries. While he missed a part of India’s tour of Australia, the all-rounder was completely ruled out of the home series against England. Former Team India chief selector, MSK Prasad opined on the matter as he said the southpaw is a genuine contender for ICC Rankings and he can’t see any reason why he wasn’t included in A+ Grade. ALSO READ: 'Heartbeat': Fleming's special praise for MS Dhoni after 200th CSK appearance in IPL “Jadeja is a genuine A+ candidate. Those who play all formats and have good ICC rankings are included in the list. I cannot see any reason why he was not considered for A + Grade,” Prasad told Cricbuzz.

Ravindra Jadeja considered for Grade A+ contract, didn't get approval: Reports

<p class="MsoNormal">Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) are all set to take on Mumbai Indians (MI) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 match at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Saturday. While MI have lost and won one match each, SRH suffered defeat in their IPL 2021 opener.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">SRH would be desperate to win the contest and open their account in the IPL 2021 season. However, Mumbai Indians would be looking to continue their winning momentum against SRH. The defending champions outclassed Kolkata Knight Riders in what was a brilliant last five-over tactical masterclass by MI.</p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal"><o:p>SRH vs MI, head-to-head stats:</o:p></h2>

<p class="MsoNormal">Talking about head-to-head stats between SRH and MI matches, the Rohit Sharma-led outfit has won 19 matches as compared to Sunrisers Hyderabad’ 10 in 29 matches between the two sides. Given Mumbai’s dominance in IPL, the stat doesn’t come as surprise. The David Warner-led side would be looking to break the pattern and get one over MI on Saturday.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-host-broadcaster-enjoy-blockbuster-viewership-for-opening-match-fails-to-break-ipl-2020-record-378133" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Host broadcaster enjoy blockbuster viewership for opening match, fails to break IPL 2020 record</a></strong></p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal"><o:p>SRH vs MI - Chennai pitch report and weather forecast</o:p></h2>

<p class="MsoNormal">Chennai has offered slow and sticky tracks so far in IPL 2021 and both teams would be wary of the conditions. While pacers have picked up more wickets in Chennai in IPL 2021, spinners and slower deliveries have dominated the proceedings the most. A score of 170 could be a winning total. There are no chances of rain.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/heartbeat-flemings-special-praise-for-ms-dhoni-after-200th-csk-appearance-in-ipl-378124" hreflang="en">'Heartbeat': Fleming's special praise for MS Dhoni after 200th CSK appearance in IPL</a></p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal"><o:p>SRH vs MI: Approaching milestones</o:p></h2>

<p class="MsoNormal">Moreover, a few players are approaching landmarks and could take the center stage by storm:<o:p></o:p></p>

<ul>
	<li class="MsoNormal">David Warner is one half-century away from completing 50 half-centuries in IPL and if he achieves the feat against MI then he would be the first player to do so.<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Warner needs five sixes to complete 200 sixes in IPL.<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Kieron Pollard needs two sixes to complete 200 sixes in IPL.<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Manish Pandey needs two sixes to complete 100 sixes in IPL.<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Krunal Pandya and Shahbaz Nadeen need two wickets each to complete 500 wickets in IPL.</li>
</ul>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>

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Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) are all set to take on Mumbai Indians (MI) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 match at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Saturday.

Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) are all set to take on Mumbai Indians (MI) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 match at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Saturday. While MI have lost and won one match each, SRH suffered defeat in their IPL 2021 opener. SRH would be desperate to win the contest and open their account in the IPL 2021 season. However, Mumbai Indians would be looking to continue their winning momentum against SRH. The defending champions outclassed Kolkata Knight Riders in what was a brilliant last five-over tactical masterclass by MI. SRH vs MI, head-to-head stats: Talking about head-to-head stats between SRH and MI matches, the Rohit Sharma-led outfit has won 19 matches as compared to Sunrisers Hyderabad’ 10 in 29 matches between the two sides. Given Mumbai’s dominance in IPL, the stat doesn’t come as surprise. The David Warner-led side would be looking to break the pattern and get one over MI on Saturday. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Host broadcaster enjoy blockbuster viewership for opening match, fails to break IPL 2020 record SRH vs MI - Chennai pitch report and weather forecast Chennai has offered slow and sticky tracks so far in IPL 2021 and both teams would be wary of the conditions. While pacers have picked up more wickets in Chennai in IPL 2021, spinners and slower deliveries have dominated the proceedings the most. A score of 170 could be a winning total. There are no chances of rain. ALSO READ: 'Heartbeat': Fleming's special praise for MS Dhoni after 200th CSK appearance in IPL SRH vs MI: Approaching milestones Moreover, a few players are approaching landmarks and could take the center stage by storm: David Warner is one half-century away from completing 50 half-centuries in IPL and if he achieves the feat against MI then he would be the first player to do so. Warner needs five sixes to complete 200 sixes in IPL. Kieron Pollard needs two sixes to complete 200 sixes in IPL. Manish Pandey needs two sixes to complete 100 sixes in IPL. Krunal Pandya and Shahbaz Nadeen need two wickets each to complete 500 wickets in IPL. ×

MI vs SRH, IPL 2021: Head-to-head stats, Chennai pitch report, weather forecast - All you need to know

<p class="MsoNormal">The opening match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 fell short of the kind of viewership IPL 2020 season opener received, according to the latest BARC (Broadcast Audience Research Council) data. Nonetheless, it was a blockbuster opening match-day for the host broadcasters, Star India, in IPL 2021. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The IPL 2021 opener between defending champions Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bangalore, played on April 9, touched 9.7 billion minutes of consumption on Star India channels. The broadcaster further reached 323 million total impressions for the opening match of IPL 2021. However, the IPL 2020 match between Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians had a record impression of 11.2 billion viewing minutes.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/heartbeat-flemings-special-praise-for-ms-dhoni-after-200th-csk-appearance-in-ipl-378124" hreflang="en">'Heartbeat': Fleming's special praise for MS Dhoni after 200th CSK appearance in IPL</a></strong><o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“The match between Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bangalore received a tremendous response, bigger than opening matches of all other IPL editions held previously other than Dream11 IPL 2020,” said Star India in a statement.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">According to BARC, IPL 2020 opening match was viewed by a humongous 158 million viewers, 21 per cent higher than 131 million viewers recorded in IPL 2019 opener.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">On OTT platform Disney + Hotstar, IPL 2021 opener peaked at 6.7 million whereas, in IPL 2020, it was 8.4 million.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-i-was-gonna-run-back-chris-morris-talks-about-sanju-samson-denying-single-against-punjab-kings-377966" hreflang="en">IPL 2021- 'I was gonna run back': Chris Morris talks about Sanju Samson denying single against Punjab Kings</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">In 2019, 18 million viewers watched IPL final concurrently on digital platforms whereas last year, when the matches were held behind closed doors, the viewership ranged between four to six million on Disney+ Hotstar.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes">&nbsp;</span>Meanwhile, the 15-21 age group has been the strongest base of viewership.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>

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The opening match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 fell short of the kind of viewership IPL 2020 season opener received, according to the latest BARC (Broadcast Audience Research Council) data.

The opening match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 fell short of the kind of viewership IPL 2020 season opener received, according to the latest BARC (Broadcast Audience Research Council) data. Nonetheless, it was a blockbuster opening match-day for the host broadcasters, Star India, in IPL 2021. The IPL 2021 opener between defending champions Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bangalore, played on April 9, touched 9.7 billion minutes of consumption on Star India channels. The broadcaster further reached 323 million total impressions for the opening match of IPL 2021. However, the IPL 2020 match between Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians had a record impression of 11.2 billion viewing minutes. ALSO READ: 'Heartbeat': Fleming's special praise for MS Dhoni after 200th CSK appearance in IPL “The match between Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bangalore received a tremendous response, bigger than opening matches of all other IPL editions held previously other than Dream11 IPL 2020,” said Star India in a statement. According to BARC, IPL 2020 opening match was viewed by a humongous 158 million viewers, 21 per cent higher than 131 million viewers recorded in IPL 2019 opener. On OTT platform Disney + Hotstar, IPL 2021 opener peaked at 6.7 million whereas, in IPL 2020, it was 8.4 million. ALSO READ: IPL 2021- 'I was gonna run back': Chris Morris talks about Sanju Samson denying single against Punjab Kings In 2019, 18 million viewers watched IPL final concurrently on digital platforms whereas last year, when the matches were held behind closed doors, the viewership ranged between four to six million on Disney+ Hotstar. Meanwhile, the 15-21 age group has been the strongest base of viewership. ×

IPL 2021: Host broadcaster enjoy blockbuster viewership for opening match, fails to break IPL 2020 record

<p>Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Tuesday suffered a crushing defeat to Mumbai Indians (MI) in the Indian Premier League at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Mumbai as the Eoin Morgan-led team lost by 10 runs after cruising through the chase for 18 overs. KKR all-rounder Andre Russell reacted to the heartbreaking defeat while also backing owner and Bollywood megastar Shah Rukh Khan’s tweet apologising to the fans.</p>

<p>KKR were superb with the ball as they restricted MI to 152, courtesy Andre Russell’s five-wicket-haul. Chasing 153, openers Shubman Gill and Nitish Rana stitched a 72-run stand as KKR looked comfortable with the modest chase. However, no other batsman&nbsp;managed to get to double digits as KKR slumped to a 10-run defeat.</p>

<p>Shah Rukh Khan took to Twitter to express his disappointment over the defeat and apologized to KKR fans for a poor outing with the bat.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2021-kolkata-knight-riders-choke-as-mumbai-indians-continue-dominance-377373" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Kolkata Knight Riders choke as Mumbai Indians continue dominance</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Disappointing performance. to say the least <a href="https://twitter.com/KKRiders?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KKRiders</a> apologies to all the fans!</p>
— Shah Rukh Khan (@iamsrk) <a href="https://twitter.com/iamsrk/status/1382028536949600259?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>While Russell was fantastic with the ball, he failed to get into the groove with the bat and witnessed KKR go down to MI once again.</p>

<p>“Yeah, I support that Tweet but at the end of the day,&nbsp;the game of cricket… you are not sure until it’s over. I think we are still confident, we still played some good cricket and I am proud of the boys. You know, we are definitely disappointed but it’s not the end of the world, it’s only the second game and we are going to learn from it,” Russell said in the post-match press conference.</p>

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<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ben-stokes-ruled-out-of-ipl-2021-with-a-finger-injury-377361" hreflang="en">Ben Stokes ruled out of IPL 2021 with a finger injury</a></strong></p>

<p>“I just think it’s a game of cricket. I have played hundreds of T20 games and I have seen games where teams cruise in on the driver’s seat and then suddenly lose a few wickets, and that’s what happened tonight. So, we definitely have to learn from this. We will look to make sure that who’s in, stays in and once we learn from all these mistakes we will definitely do better. I have trust and confidence in the boys,” he added.</p>

<p>KKR will next be in action against Royal Challengers Bangalore on April 18 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>


Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Tuesday suffered a crushing defeat to Mumbai Indians (MI) in the Indian Premier League at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Mumbai as the Eoin Morgan-led team lost by 10 runs after cruising through the chase for 18 overs.

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Tuesday suffered a crushing defeat to Mumbai Indians (MI) in the Indian Premier League at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Mumbai as the Eoin Morgan-led team lost by 10 runs after cruising through the chase for 18 overs. KKR all-rounder Andre Russell reacted to the heartbreaking defeat while also backing owner and Bollywood megastar Shah Rukh Khan’s tweet apologising to the fans. KKR were superb with the ball as they restricted MI to 152, courtesy Andre Russell’s five-wicket-haul. Chasing 153, openers Shubman Gill and Nitish Rana stitched a 72-run stand as KKR looked comfortable with the modest chase. However, no other batsman managed to get to double digits as KKR slumped to a 10-run defeat. Shah Rukh Khan took to Twitter to express his disappointment over the defeat and apologized to KKR fans for a poor outing with the bat. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Kolkata Knight Riders choke as Mumbai Indians continue dominance Disappointing performance. to say the least @KKRiders apologies to all the fans! — Shah Rukh Khan (@iamsrk) April 13, 2021 × While Russell was fantastic with the ball, he failed to get into the groove with the bat and witnessed KKR go down to MI once again. “Yeah, I support that Tweet but at the end of the day, the game of cricket… you are not sure until it’s over. I think we are still confident, we still played some good cricket and I am proud of the boys. You know, we are definitely disappointed but it’s not the end of the world, it’s only the second game and we are going to learn from it,” Russell said in the post-match press conference. × ALSO READ: Ben Stokes ruled out of IPL 2021 with a finger injury “I just think it’s a game of cricket. I have played hundreds of T20 games and I have seen games where teams cruise in on the driver’s seat and then suddenly lose a few wickets, and that’s what happened tonight. So, we definitely have to learn from this. We will look to make sure that who’s in, stays in and once we learn from all these mistakes we will definitely do better. I have trust and confidence in the boys,” he added. KKR will next be in action against Royal Challengers Bangalore on April 18 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

Not the end of world: Andre Russell reacts to Shah Rukh Khan's apology tweet after MI defeat

<p class="MsoNormal">Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) ended up choking in the final five overs of the match against Mumbai Indians (MI) on Tuesday at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai to suffer a crushing 10-run defeat in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. Former Indian opener Virender Sehwag, after the defeat, questioned experienced campaigners Andre Russell and Dinesh Karthik’s approach in the chase in what he termed as a “shameful” defeat for KKR.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Despite needing just 31 runs off the last 30 deliveries with six wickets in hand, KKR ended up losing the match by 10 runs and failed to finish the match despite dominating for 35 overs. Two of the famed finishers in the game, Russell and Karthik, got stuck in the middle and their failure to hit boundaries and rotate the strike led to a heartbreaking defeat.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">While Russell scored 9 off 15 balls, Karthik was unbeaten on 8 off 11 balls. Sehwag opined that both Russell and Karthik wanted to stay there till the final ball but failed to finish the match.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-the-end-of-world-andre-russell-reacts-to-shah-rukh-khans-apology-tweet-after-mi-defeat-377454" hreflang="en">Not the end of world: Andre Russell reacts to Shah Rukh Khan's apology tweet after MI defeat</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“Eoin Morgan had given a statement that they will play that way (with positive intent) after the first game but it didn't look like that when Andre Russell and Dinesh Karthik came in to bat. The way Russell and Karthik batted, it felt like they planned to take the game till the end and win it. But that didn’t happen. The batters who came before them – be it Shakib Al Hasan, Eoin Morgan, Shubman Gill or Nitish Rana – all of them played with positive intent,” Sehwag said on Cricbuzz.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Sehwag further said that either Rana or Gill should have finished the game for KKR.</p>

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<p>"Either Rana or Gill should have batted till the end. They had seen what had happened in the MI innings, despite getting off to a good start they could only manage 152," he said.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The likes of Rahul Chahar, Krunal Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah and Trent Boult executed the plans to perfection and managed to restrict KKR to just 20 runs in last five overs to win the match for MI.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/brian-lara-gives-his-verdict-on-sanju-samsons-decision-to-refuse-morris-a-single-vs-pbks-377322" hreflang="en">Brian Lara gives his verdict on Sanju Samson's decision to refuse Morris a single vs PBKS</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Sehwag further took a jibe at KKR and said the Morgan-led outfit defined how to lose a game from a winning position while labeling it a “shameful defeat”.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“Kolkata Knight Riders just lost the game which was almost won at one stage. When Russell came into bat, KKR needed 30 runs in 27-odd balls. Dinesh Karthik batted till the end but couldn’t win the game. That’s a shameful defeat,” he said.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“The runs per ball difference wasn’t much except for the last couple of overs. We saw how to lose a game that is almost won. You hardly get any game where you are chasing 152 and you need to score 36-odd runs in 6 overs with 6-7 wickets in hand. In such scenarios, teams prefer to end the game quickly to improve their net run rate. But KKR failed to do that and hampered their net-run rate,” he added.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">KKR will next face Royal Challengers Bangalore on Sunday in Chennai.<o:p></o:p></p>


Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) ended up choking in the final five overs of the match against Mumbai Indians (MI) on Tuesday at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai to suffer a crushing 10-run defeat in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021.

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) ended up choking in the final five overs of the match against Mumbai Indians (MI) on Tuesday at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai to suffer a crushing 10-run defeat in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. Former Indian opener Virender Sehwag, after the defeat, questioned experienced campaigners Andre Russell and Dinesh Karthik’s approach in the chase in what he termed as a “shameful” defeat for KKR. Despite needing just 31 runs off the last 30 deliveries with six wickets in hand, KKR ended up losing the match by 10 runs and failed to finish the match despite dominating for 35 overs. Two of the famed finishers in the game, Russell and Karthik, got stuck in the middle and their failure to hit boundaries and rotate the strike led to a heartbreaking defeat. While Russell scored 9 off 15 balls, Karthik was unbeaten on 8 off 11 balls. Sehwag opined that both Russell and Karthik wanted to stay there till the final ball but failed to finish the match. ALSO READ: Not the end of world: Andre Russell reacts to Shah Rukh Khan's apology tweet after MI defeat “Eoin Morgan had given a statement that they will play that way (with positive intent) after the first game but it didn't look like that when Andre Russell and Dinesh Karthik came in to bat. The way Russell and Karthik batted, it felt like they planned to take the game till the end and win it. But that didn’t happen. The batters who came before them – be it Shakib Al Hasan, Eoin Morgan, Shubman Gill or Nitish Rana – all of them played with positive intent,” Sehwag said on Cricbuzz. Sehwag further said that either Rana or Gill should have finished the game for KKR. × "Either Rana or Gill should have batted till the end. They had seen what had happened in the MI innings, despite getting off to a good start they could only manage 152," he said. The likes of Rahul Chahar, Krunal Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah and Trent Boult executed the plans to perfection and managed to restrict KKR to just 20 runs in last five overs to win the match for MI. ALSO READ: Brian Lara gives his verdict on Sanju Samson's decision to refuse Morris a single vs PBKS Sehwag further took a jibe at KKR and said the Morgan-led outfit defined how to lose a game from a winning position while labeling it a “shameful defeat”. “Kolkata Knight Riders just lost the game which was almost won at one stage. When Russell came into bat, KKR needed 30 runs in 27-odd balls. Dinesh Karthik batted till the end but couldn’t win the game. That’s a shameful defeat,” he said. “The runs per ball difference wasn’t much except for the last couple of overs. We saw how to lose a game that is almost won. You hardly get any game where you are chasing 152 and you need to score 36-odd runs in 6 overs with 6-7 wickets in hand. In such scenarios, teams prefer to end the game quickly to improve their net run rate. But KKR failed to do that and hampered their net-run rate,” he added. KKR will next face Royal Challengers Bangalore on Sunday in Chennai.

'Shameful defeat': Sehwag questions Andre Russell and Dinesh Karthik's intent after KKR collapse

<p>Holding the postponed Tokyo Olympics this summer will be "really difficult" given a spike in coronavirus infections across Japan, the head of the Tokyo Medical Association has warned.</p>

<p>Haruo Ozaki sounded the alarm as rising daily cases prompt new virus restrictions in Tokyo and elsewhere in Japan.</p>

<p>"If infections spread further, in reality it would be difficult to hold the Olympics in its regular form with athletes coming from various countries, even if the Games are held with no spectators," the Sports Hochi daily quoted him as saying at a Tuesday press conference.</p>

<p>On his Facebook page Wednesday, Ozaki said the report reflected his concerns, even though recent successes by Japanese swimmer Rikako Ikee and golfer Hideki Matsuyama had been inspiring.</p>

<p>"I couldn't hold back my tears watching Ikee and Matsuyama's great performances. I want to watch their great performances at the Olympics too," he wrote.</p>

<p>"But, from my position as the head of medical workers, I have to say that holding the Games is really difficult."</p>

<p>Ozaki called on organisers to "show concrete measures on how they can prevent the spread of infection at home and abroad."</p>

<p>"Then we would like to sincerely study if such a plan is realistic," he wrote.</p>

<p>The comments come as Tokyo marks 100 days until the virus-postponed 2020 Olympics open on July 23.</p>

<p>The rise in Covid-19 cases in Japan and abroad is fuelling concerns about whether the Games can, or should, go ahead.</p>

<p>New virus restrictions have been put in place in several parts of Japan, including Tokyo and Osaka.</p>

<p>The measures are significantly looser than lockdowns seen in other parts of the world, but they have forced the Olympic torch relay off public roads in Osaka.</p>

<p>Instead, the flame is being carried along a closed course inside a park with the public kept away.</p>

<p>Olympic organisers have released a series of virus rulebooks they say will keep the Games safe.</p>

<p>They will bar overseas spectators, limit the movement of athletes and require regular virus testing.</p>

<p>But vaccination will not be required and quarantine rules will be waived for Olympic participants.</p>

<p>Polls show a majority of people in Japan want the Games postponed or cancelled.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Support for holding the event this summer has risen since a winter surge in infections, but still hovers below 30 percent.</p>


Holding the postponed Tokyo Olympics this summer will be "really difficult" given a spike in coronavirus infections across Japan, the head of the Tokyo Medical Association has warned.

Holding the postponed Tokyo Olympics this summer will be "really difficult" given a spike in coronavirus infections across Japan, the head of the Tokyo Medical Association has warned. Haruo Ozaki sounded the alarm as rising daily cases prompt new virus restrictions in Tokyo and elsewhere in Japan. "If infections spread further, in reality it would be difficult to hold the Olympics in its regular form with athletes coming from various countries, even if the Games are held with no spectators," the Sports Hochi daily quoted him as saying at a Tuesday press conference. On his Facebook page Wednesday, Ozaki said the report reflected his concerns, even though recent successes by Japanese swimmer Rikako Ikee and golfer Hideki Matsuyama had been inspiring. "I couldn't hold back my tears watching Ikee and Matsuyama's great performances. I want to watch their great performances at the Olympics too," he wrote. "But, from my position as the head of medical workers, I have to say that holding the Games is really difficult." Ozaki called on organisers to "show concrete measures on how they can prevent the spread of infection at home and abroad." "Then we would like to sincerely study if such a plan is realistic," he wrote. The comments come as Tokyo marks 100 days until the virus-postponed 2020 Olympics open on July 23. The rise in Covid-19 cases in Japan and abroad is fuelling concerns about whether the Games can, or should, go ahead. New virus restrictions have been put in place in several parts of Japan, including Tokyo and Osaka. The measures are significantly looser than lockdowns seen in other parts of the world, but they have forced the Olympic torch relay off public roads in Osaka. Instead, the flame is being carried along a closed course inside a park with the public kept away. Olympic organisers have released a series of virus rulebooks they say will keep the Games safe. They will bar overseas spectators, limit the movement of athletes and require regular virus testing. But vaccination will not be required and quarantine rules will be waived for Olympic participants. Polls show a majority of people in Japan want the Games postponed or cancelled. Support for holding the event this summer has risen since a winter surge in infections, but still hovers below 30 percent.

Olympics 'difficult' after virus spikes, Japan medical group warns

<p>Stefanos Tsitsipas made a winning start to the Monte Carlo Masters on Tuesday after the world number five cruised past Aslan Karatsev 6-3, 6-4 and into the last 16.</p>

<p>Greek Tsitsipas, who had been given a bye into the second round, took just one hour and 24 minutes to beat 29th-ranked Russian Karatsev.</p>

<p>The 22-year-old exploited a whopping 32 unforced errors from Karatsev to set up a clash with either Australian John Millman or Chile's Cristian Garin.</p>

<p>Novak Djokovic meanwhile will face Jannik Sinner in his second round match after the up-and-coming Italian saw off Spain's Albert Ramos-Vinolas in straight sets 6-3, 6-4.</p>

<p>Teenager Sinner has risen to 22nd in the world rankings after reaching the final of the Miami Open earlier this month.</p>

<p>"I will definitely have a game plan," Sinner said of what will be his first meeting with Djokovic.</p>

<p>"I know who is on the other side. Obviously it's a tough match I think from my side, because I don't know him that well. I have seen him a lot on TV, watching matches. But when you play against him in a match, it's different. I'm looking forward to that match."</p>

<p>Sinner, one of five Italians to reach the second round Tuesday in Monte Carlo, is 15-5 this year but is competing in the main draw of a Masters 1000 event for just the fourth time.</p>

<p>"It's a good test for my side to see where I am, especially where I can improve," he added. "I know where I can improve, but this kind of match can give me a lot. I just try to go there with the right mentality like in every match."</p>

<p>Earlier on Tuesday, Daniil Medvedev pulled out of the tournament after testing positive for Covid-19.</p>

<p>World number two Medvedev tested positive on Monday having practised with Rafael Nadal the day before.</p>

<p>Organisers, contacted by AFP, declined to comment on whether third seed Nadal risked being identified as a 'close contact' of Medvedev and forced to quarantine.</p>

<p>Nadal is seeded to meet Djokovic in the final as he chases a 12th triumph in Monte Carlo, a key clay court tournament in the run up to the French Open.</p>


Stefanos Tsitsipas made a winning start to the Monte Carlo Masters on Tuesday after the world number five cruised past Aslan Karatsev 6-3, 6-4 and into the last 16.

Stefanos Tsitsipas made a winning start to the Monte Carlo Masters on Tuesday after the world number five cruised past Aslan Karatsev 6-3, 6-4 and into the last 16. Greek Tsitsipas, who had been given a bye into the second round, took just one hour and 24 minutes to beat 29th-ranked Russian Karatsev. The 22-year-old exploited a whopping 32 unforced errors from Karatsev to set up a clash with either Australian John Millman or Chile's Cristian Garin. Novak Djokovic meanwhile will face Jannik Sinner in his second round match after the up-and-coming Italian saw off Spain's Albert Ramos-Vinolas in straight sets 6-3, 6-4. Teenager Sinner has risen to 22nd in the world rankings after reaching the final of the Miami Open earlier this month. "I will definitely have a game plan," Sinner said of what will be his first meeting with Djokovic. "I know who is on the other side. Obviously it's a tough match I think from my side, because I don't know him that well. I have seen him a lot on TV, watching matches. But when you play against him in a match, it's different. I'm looking forward to that match." Sinner, one of five Italians to reach the second round Tuesday in Monte Carlo, is 15-5 this year but is competing in the main draw of a Masters 1000 event for just the fourth time. "It's a good test for my side to see where I am, especially where I can improve," he added. "I know where I can improve, but this kind of match can give me a lot. I just try to go there with the right mentality like in every match." Earlier on Tuesday, Daniil Medvedev pulled out of the tournament after testing positive for Covid-19. World number two Medvedev tested positive on Monday having practised with Rafael Nadal the day before. Organisers, contacted by AFP, declined to comment on whether third seed Nadal risked being identified as a 'close contact' of Medvedev and forced to quarantine. Nadal is seeded to meet Djokovic in the final as he chases a 12th triumph in Monte Carlo, a key clay court tournament in the run up to the French Open.

Tsitsipas strolls into Monte Carlo last 16, Djokovic to face rising star Sinner

<p>Bayern Munich captain Manuel Neuer said his team paid for missing several chances in the first leg after the German side's Champions League title defence ended with a loss on away goals to Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday.</p>

<p>Despite a 1-0 quarter-final second-leg victory at the Parc des Princes, Bayern were dumped out of Europe after a 3-3 aggregate draw.</p>

<p>"It wasn't tonight that saw us knocked out," Neuer said. "The 1-0 win here was deserved but it was the result in Munich (3-2 loss) which wasn't good. We were in a bad position at kick-off."</p>

<p>Bayern dominated for long periods over the tie, especially in the first leg when they had 31 attempts at the PSG goal but could only convert two of them without injured top-scorer Robert Lewandowski and winger Serge Gnabry.</p>

<p>"It was annoying to have missed so many chances in the first leg," added Neuer.</p>

<p>"Was Lewandowski missed? We missed all the players who weren't there tonight. Against a classy team like PSG, it's difficult.</p>

<p>"But the players who were on the pitch gave it their all."</p>

<p>Hansi Flick's Bayern will now turn their attentions to winning a ninth straight Bundesliga title, with the Bavarian giants sitting five points clear of second-placed RB Leipzig in the table.</p>

<p>"We have a good chance of winning the Bundesliga, at the end it will still be a positive season," insisted Neuer.</p>


Bayern Munich captain Manuel Neuer said his team paid for missing several chances in the first leg after the German side's Champions League title defence ended with a loss on away goals to Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday.

Bayern Munich captain Manuel Neuer said his team paid for missing several chances in the first leg after the German side's Champions League title defence ended with a loss on away goals to Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday. Despite a 1-0 quarter-final second-leg victory at the Parc des Princes, Bayern were dumped out of Europe after a 3-3 aggregate draw. "It wasn't tonight that saw us knocked out," Neuer said. "The 1-0 win here was deserved but it was the result in Munich (3-2 loss) which wasn't good. We were in a bad position at kick-off." Bayern dominated for long periods over the tie, especially in the first leg when they had 31 attempts at the PSG goal but could only convert two of them without injured top-scorer Robert Lewandowski and winger Serge Gnabry. "It was annoying to have missed so many chances in the first leg," added Neuer. "Was Lewandowski missed? We missed all the players who weren't there tonight. Against a classy team like PSG, it's difficult. "But the players who were on the pitch gave it their all." Hansi Flick's Bayern will now turn their attentions to winning a ninth straight Bundesliga title, with the Bavarian giants sitting five points clear of second-placed RB Leipzig in the table. "We have a good chance of winning the Bundesliga, at the end it will still be a positive season," insisted Neuer.

Neuer blames first-leg loss for Bayern's Champions League exit

<p>Paris Saint-Germain's relationship with the Champions League over the last decade has been fraught with disappointment and littered with spectacular defeats, but an aggregate victory against holders Bayern Munich is the most significant of the Qatar era as they aim to finally get their hands on the trophy.</p>

<p>Against the team that Mauricio Pochettino kept insisting was the best in Europe, PSG exacted revenge for their 1-0 defeat in last season's final in Lisbon.</p>

<p>It was not achieved without suffering, as they followed their smash-and-grab 3-2 win in the first leg in the Munich snow last week with a 1-0 defeat in Tuesday's return, Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting scoring Bayern's goal against his old side.</p>

<p>But while in previous years PSG might have collapsed under the pressure, this time they held on to win their quarter-final tie on away goals and set up a semi-final against Manchester City or Borussia Dortmund.</p>

<p>Following the Qatar Sports Investments takeover of 2011, PSG spent a long time struggling to make an impact in Champions League knockout ties.</p>

<p>They threw away first-leg leads to lose on away goals to Chelsea in the 2014 quarter-finals and to Manchester United in the last 16 in 2019.</p>

<p>There was the humiliation of the "remontada" against Barcelona in 2017 too, when a 4-0 first-leg lead in the last 16 was obliterated in a 6-1 second-leg loss.</p>

<p>This time they held on, despite captain Marquinhos and playmaker Marco Verratti both missing the second leg, and despite Neymar missing a host of chances in the first half.</p>

<p>"This club has been growing every day, year on year," said Presnel Kimpembe, the skipper against Bayern whose late handball was responsible for their dramatic exit against United two years ago.</p>

<h2>- 'No excuse' for Neymar, Mbappe to leave -</h2>

<p>The success against the holders comes after they eliminated Barcelona in the last 16, winning 4-1 at the Camp Nou in the first leg.</p>

<p>That was also a case of exacting revenge, with the Catalans having beaten the French side in the knockout rounds three times in the previous decade.</p>

<p>In both of those ties PSG have shown a resilience that has been lacking before, and they have beaten two of the great traditional powerhouses of European football en route to the last four, having also beaten Manchester United away in the group phase.</p>

<p>"We have deserved to win these two ties, but I don't think that makes us favourites now," said coach Pochettino, and yet there is a significance to the teams they have knocked out.</p>

<p>Last year their run to the final, as impressive as it was, featured wins over Dortmund, Atalanta and RB Leipzig, none of whom were seen as contenders to win the trophy. The latter two victories came in one-off ties in the 'Final Eight' in Lisbon.</p>

<p>PSG's European run this season comes just as their hegemony at home is under threat -- after seven Ligue 1 titles in eight years, they are currently three points behind leaders Lille with six games remaining.</p>

<p>Nevertheless, the Champions League is really all that matters, and it is success in Europe's elite club competition that can convince superstar duo Kylian Mbappe and Neymar to sign contract extensions.</p>

<p>The two most expensive signings in football history when they arrived in Paris in 2017, Neymar and Mbappe are both out of contract at the end of next season. It remains Barcelona's dream to bring Neymar back, while Mbappe has long been linked to Real Madrid.</p>

<p>"Kylian and Neymar have no excuse for wanting to leave because we have everything in place here to win the Champions League," beaming PSG president Nasser al-Khelaifi told RMC Sport.</p>

<p>"We are a top team now, with all respect for the other teams out there."</p>


Paris Saint-Germain's relationship with the Champions League over the last decade has been fraught with disappointment and littered with spectacular defeats, but an aggregate victory against holders Bayern Munich is the most significant of the Qatar era as they aim to finally get their hands on the trophy.

Paris Saint-Germain's relationship with the Champions League over the last decade has been fraught with disappointment and littered with spectacular defeats, but an aggregate victory against holders Bayern Munich is the most significant of the Qatar era as they aim to finally get their hands on the trophy. Against the team that Mauricio Pochettino kept insisting was the best in Europe, PSG exacted revenge for their 1-0 defeat in last season's final in Lisbon. It was not achieved without suffering, as they followed their smash-and-grab 3-2 win in the first leg in the Munich snow last week with a 1-0 defeat in Tuesday's return, Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting scoring Bayern's goal against his old side. But while in previous years PSG might have collapsed under the pressure, this time they held on to win their quarter-final tie on away goals and set up a semi-final against Manchester City or Borussia Dortmund. Following the Qatar Sports Investments takeover of 2011, PSG spent a long time struggling to make an impact in Champions League knockout ties. They threw away first-leg leads to lose on away goals to Chelsea in the 2014 quarter-finals and to Manchester United in the last 16 in 2019. There was the humiliation of the "remontada" against Barcelona in 2017 too, when a 4-0 first-leg lead in the last 16 was obliterated in a 6-1 second-leg loss. This time they held on, despite captain Marquinhos and playmaker Marco Verratti both missing the second leg, and despite Neymar missing a host of chances in the first half. "This club has been growing every day, year on year," said Presnel Kimpembe, the skipper against Bayern whose late handball was responsible for their dramatic exit against United two years ago. - 'No excuse' for Neymar, Mbappe to leave - The success against the holders comes after they eliminated Barcelona in the last 16, winning 4-1 at the Camp Nou in the first leg. That was also a case of exacting revenge, with the Catalans having beaten the French side in the knockout rounds three times in the previous decade. In both of those ties PSG have shown a resilience that has been lacking before, and they have beaten two of the great traditional powerhouses of European football en route to the last four, having also beaten Manchester United away in the group phase. "We have deserved to win these two ties, but I don't think that makes us favourites now," said coach Pochettino, and yet there is a significance to the teams they have knocked out. Last year their run to the final, as impressive as it was, featured wins over Dortmund, Atalanta and RB Leipzig, none of whom were seen as contenders to win the trophy. The latter two victories came in one-off ties in the 'Final Eight' in Lisbon. PSG's European run this season comes just as their hegemony at home is under threat -- after seven Ligue 1 titles in eight years, they are currently three points behind leaders Lille with six games remaining. Nevertheless, the Champions League is really all that matters, and it is success in Europe's elite club competition that can convince superstar duo Kylian Mbappe and Neymar to sign contract extensions. The two most expensive signings in football history when they arrived in Paris in 2017, Neymar and Mbappe are both out of contract at the end of next season. It remains Barcelona's dream to bring Neymar back, while Mbappe has long been linked to Real Madrid. "Kylian and Neymar have no excuse for wanting to leave because we have everything in place here to win the Champions League," beaming PSG president Nasser al-Khelaifi told RMC Sport. "We are a top team now, with all respect for the other teams out there."

PSG show their mettle with biggest Champions League scalp

<p>Novak Djokovic swept past promising Italian teenager Jannik Sinner in two sets in Monte Carlo on Wednesday on the Serbian world number one's first appearance since claiming the Australian Open in February.</p>

<p>Sinner, 19, shot to prominence by making it into this month's Miami Open final.</p>

<p>The world number 22 had seen off Spain's Albert Ramos-Vinolas in straight sets 6-3, 6-4 at this Masters 1000 event to book his first ever date with Djokovic.</p>

<p>But it proved a one-sided contest at the Monte Carlo Country Club, with Djokovic sweeping into the next round 6-4, 6-2 in one hour and 34 minutes.</p>

<p>The 18-time Grand Slam champion will next face either Briton Daniel Evans or Hubert Hurkacz, Sinner's Miami conqueror, for a place in the quarter-finals.</p>

<p>The man he is seeded to meet in the final, Rafael Nadal, takes his first steps towards what he hopes will be a 12th title in the Principality against Federico Delbonis.</p>

<p>Nadal was in action three days after practising with Daniil Medvedev, the Russian second seed who was forced to withdraw after testing positive for Covid-19 on Monday.</p>


Novak Djokovic swept past promising Italian teenager Jannik Sinner in two sets in Monte Carlo on Wednesday on the Serbian world number one's first appearance since claiming the Australian Open in February.

Novak Djokovic swept past promising Italian teenager Jannik Sinner in two sets in Monte Carlo on Wednesday on the Serbian world number one's first appearance since claiming the Australian Open in February. Sinner, 19, shot to prominence by making it into this month's Miami Open final. The world number 22 had seen off Spain's Albert Ramos-Vinolas in straight sets 6-3, 6-4 at this Masters 1000 event to book his first ever date with Djokovic. But it proved a one-sided contest at the Monte Carlo Country Club, with Djokovic sweeping into the next round 6-4, 6-2 in one hour and 34 minutes. The 18-time Grand Slam champion will next face either Briton Daniel Evans or Hubert Hurkacz, Sinner's Miami conqueror, for a place in the quarter-finals. The man he is seeded to meet in the final, Rafael Nadal, takes his first steps towards what he hopes will be a 12th title in the Principality against Federico Delbonis. Nadal was in action three days after practising with Daniil Medvedev, the Russian second seed who was forced to withdraw after testing positive for Covid-19 on Monday.

Djokovic silences Sinner on Monte Carlo return

<p class="MsoNormal">Delhi Capitals, who defeated Chennai Super Kings by seven wickets in their first match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, will be looking to build on their fabulous start when they take on the Rajasthan Royals in their second encounter of the season at the Wankhede Stadium on Thursday. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Delhi Capitals' all-rounder Chris Woakes expressed that all the players in the Delhi set-up are eager to show their mettle in the upcoming matches, "It's great to get off to a good start. Winning the first game gives a lot of confidence to the team. Everyone's eager to get going. But it's just one performance and there are a lot of games ahead in the IPL. We have to play against some good teams, so we won't getting ahead of ourselves. However, everyone in the group is confident and looking forward to the next few games."</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/heath-streak-banned-for-8-years-what-icc-acu-found-in-its-investigation-of-case-377541" hreflang="en">Heath Streak banned for 8 years: What ICC ACU found in its investigation of case</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">While speaking about taking on the Rajasthan Royals in their next game, Woakes said that the JSW and GMR co-owned franchise have picked on a few things from the Royals' thrilling match against Punjab Kings, "It was a good game to watch as a neutral. It was a really good chase by Rajasthan, but unfortunately, they came up a little bit short, however, Sanju Samson played an incredible innings. We watched the game and picked up on a few things that we would like to do against them. But every IPL game is a new game, new day, probably a new surface and whichever team adapts better on the day will probably win the game."</p>

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<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/even-i-fail-to-read-your-deliveries-how-rohit-sharma-motivated-rahul-chahar-vs-kkr-377534" hreflang="en">Even I fail to read your deliveries: How Rohit Sharma motivated Rahul Chahar vs KKR</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Woakes added that he feels for Rajasthan Royals' star all-rounder Ben Stokes, who has been unfortunately ruled out of the IPL 2021 due to a finger injury.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"You want the world's best players playing in the tournament and Ben has done that in the IPL for a few years so it's a shame for him to miss out on the rest of the tournament. I feel for him as a friend as well. But I am sure that he'll come back stronger," signed off Woakes.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes">&nbsp; </span><o:p></o:p></p>


Delhi Capitals, who defeated Chennai Super Kings by seven wickets in their first match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, will be looking to build on their fabulous start when they take on the Rajasthan Royals in their second encounter of the season at the Wankhede Stadium on Thursday.

Delhi Capitals, who defeated Chennai Super Kings by seven wickets in their first match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, will be looking to build on their fabulous start when they take on the Rajasthan Royals in their second encounter of the season at the Wankhede Stadium on Thursday. Delhi Capitals' all-rounder Chris Woakes expressed that all the players in the Delhi set-up are eager to show their mettle in the upcoming matches, "It's great to get off to a good start. Winning the first game gives a lot of confidence to the team. Everyone's eager to get going. But it's just one performance and there are a lot of games ahead in the IPL. We have to play against some good teams, so we won't getting ahead of ourselves. However, everyone in the group is confident and looking forward to the next few games." ALSO READ: Heath Streak banned for 8 years: What ICC ACU found in its investigation of case While speaking about taking on the Rajasthan Royals in their next game, Woakes said that the JSW and GMR co-owned franchise have picked on a few things from the Royals' thrilling match against Punjab Kings, "It was a good game to watch as a neutral. It was a really good chase by Rajasthan, but unfortunately, they came up a little bit short, however, Sanju Samson played an incredible innings. We watched the game and picked up on a few things that we would like to do against them. But every IPL game is a new game, new day, probably a new surface and whichever team adapts better on the day will probably win the game." × ALSO READ: Even I fail to read your deliveries: How Rohit Sharma motivated Rahul Chahar vs KKR Woakes added that he feels for Rajasthan Royals' star all-rounder Ben Stokes, who has been unfortunately ruled out of the IPL 2021 due to a finger injury. "You want the world's best players playing in the tournament and Ben has done that in the IPL for a few years so it's a shame for him to miss out on the rest of the tournament. I feel for him as a friend as well. But I am sure that he'll come back stronger," signed off Woakes.

Picked up a few things from Sanju Samson's knock: DC's Chris Woakes looking forward to face RR

<p>Former Zimbabwe captain Heath Streak has been banned from all cricket for eight years after he accepted five charges of breaching the ICC Anti-Corruption Code. Streak was charged as a participant under the Code by virtue of his status as the coach of Zimbabwe from 2016 to 2018 and as the coach of various domestic teams.</p>

<h2>The charges are as follows:</h2>

<p>2.3.2 – disclosing inside information under both the ICC Code and various domestic Codes, in circumstances where he knew or should have known that such information may be used for betting purposes. In particular, he disclosed inside information in relation to matches in the 2018 Tri-Series involving Zimbabwe, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, the Zimbabwe v Afghanistan series in 2018, the IPL 2018 and the APL 2018.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/babar-azam-dethrones-virat-kohli-as-no-1-odi-batsman-in-icc-rankings-377486" hreflang="en">Babar Azam dethrones Virat Kohli as no. 1 ODI batsman in ICC Rankings</a></strong></p>

<p>2.3.3 – directly or indirectly soliciting, inducing, enticing, persuading, encouraging or intentionally facilitating any participant to breach the Code. In particular, he facilitated or attempted to facilitate the introduction of four different players, including a national captain, to someone he knew, or should have known, may have wanted to approach them to provide inside information for betting purposes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>2.4.2 – Failing to disclose the receipt of any gift, payment, hospitality or other benefits that the participant knew or should have known was given to them to procure a breach of the Code or that was made or given in circumstances that could bring the participant or the sport of cricket into disrepute.&nbsp;</p>

<p>2.4.4 - Failing to disclose to the ACU full details of any approaches or invitations received to engage in corrupt conduct under the Code including in relation to international matches, matches in the 2017 BPL, the 2018 Pakistan Super League, the 2018 IPL and the 2018 APL.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Article 2.4.7 – obstructing or delaying an investigation, including concealing, tampering with or destroying any documentation or other information that may be relevant to that investigation and/or that may be evidence of or may lead to the discovery of evidence of corrupt conduct under the ICC Anti-Corruption Code.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-delhi-capitals-pacer-anrich-nortje-tests-positive-for-covid-19-377494" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Delhi Capitals pacer Anrich Nortje tests positive for COVID-19</a></strong></p>

<p>Under the provisions of the Code, Streak chose to admit the charges and agreed the sanction with the ICC in lieu of an Anti-Corruption Tribunal hearing. He will be free to resume his involvement in the game on 28 March 2029.</p>

<p>Alex Marshall, ICC General Manager – Integrity Unit, said: “Heath Streak is an experienced former international cricketer and national team coach, who had participated in numerous anti-corruption education sessions and was fully aware of his responsibilities under the Code.</p>

<p>“As a former captain and coach, he held a position of trust and owed a duty to uphold the integrity of the game. He breached the Code on several occasions, including facilitating the approach of four other players. At times, he also sought to obstruct and delay our investigation.</p>

<p>“The offences did not affect the outcomes of any relevant matches and Mr Streak has agreed to assist the ICC anti-corruption education programme for which we are grateful. He has also expressed his remorse and contrition and entered this agreed sanction decision to avoid the need for a full disciplinary process. The sanction reflects this cooperation.”</p>


Former Zimbabwe captain Heath Streak has been banned from all cricket for eight years after he accepted five charges of breaching the ICC Anti-Corruption Code. Streak was charged as a participant under the Code by virtue of his status as the coach of Zimbabwe from 2016 to 2018 and as the coach of various domestic teams.

Former Zimbabwe captain Heath Streak has been banned from all cricket for eight years after he accepted five charges of breaching the ICC Anti-Corruption Code. Streak was charged as a participant under the Code by virtue of his status as the coach of Zimbabwe from 2016 to 2018 and as the coach of various domestic teams. The charges are as follows: 2.3.2 – disclosing inside information under both the ICC Code and various domestic Codes, in circumstances where he knew or should have known that such information may be used for betting purposes. In particular, he disclosed inside information in relation to matches in the 2018 Tri-Series involving Zimbabwe, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, the Zimbabwe v Afghanistan series in 2018, the IPL 2018 and the APL 2018. ALSO READ: Babar Azam dethrones Virat Kohli as no. 1 ODI batsman in ICC Rankings 2.3.3 – directly or indirectly soliciting, inducing, enticing, persuading, encouraging or intentionally facilitating any participant to breach the Code. In particular, he facilitated or attempted to facilitate the introduction of four different players, including a national captain, to someone he knew, or should have known, may have wanted to approach them to provide inside information for betting purposes. 2.4.2 – Failing to disclose the receipt of any gift, payment, hospitality or other benefits that the participant knew or should have known was given to them to procure a breach of the Code or that was made or given in circumstances that could bring the participant or the sport of cricket into disrepute. 2.4.4 - Failing to disclose to the ACU full details of any approaches or invitations received to engage in corrupt conduct under the Code including in relation to international matches, matches in the 2017 BPL, the 2018 Pakistan Super League, the 2018 IPL and the 2018 APL. Article 2.4.7 – obstructing or delaying an investigation, including concealing, tampering with or destroying any documentation or other information that may be relevant to that investigation and/or that may be evidence of or may lead to the discovery of evidence of corrupt conduct under the ICC Anti-Corruption Code. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Delhi Capitals pacer Anrich Nortje tests positive for COVID-19 Under the provisions of the Code, Streak chose to admit the charges and agreed the sanction with the ICC in lieu of an Anti-Corruption Tribunal hearing. He will be free to resume his involvement in the game on 28 March 2029. Alex Marshall, ICC General Manager – Integrity Unit, said: “Heath Streak is an experienced former international cricketer and national team coach, who had participated in numerous anti-corruption education sessions and was fully aware of his responsibilities under the Code. “As a former captain and coach, he held a position of trust and owed a duty to uphold the integrity of the game. He breached the Code on several occasions, including facilitating the approach of four other players. At times, he also sought to obstruct and delay our investigation. “The offences did not affect the outcomes of any relevant matches and Mr Streak has agreed to assist the ICC anti-corruption education programme for which we are grateful. He has also expressed his remorse and contrition and entered this agreed sanction decision to avoid the need for a full disciplinary process. The sanction reflects this cooperation.”

Former Zimbabwe captain Heath Streak banned for eight years under ICC Anti-Corruption Code

<p>The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Wednesday (April 14) suspended former Zimbabwe captain Heath Streak from cricket for a period of eight years after accepting five charges of breaching the ICC Anti-Corruption Code. The legendary Zimbabwean pacer was charged under the Code of the virtue of his status as the coach of the Zimbabwe national team from 2016 to 2018 and as coach of various domestic teams.</p>

<p>Heath accepted disclosing information under both ICC Code and various domestic Codes. In particular, he disclosed inside information in relation to matches in the 2018 Tri-Series involving Zimbabwe, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, the Zimbabwe v Afghanistan series in 2018, the IPL 2018 and the APL 2018.</p>

<p>But what information was gathered during the entire investigation process involving Heath Streak? ICC provided a redacted document of information obtained through its investigation, ultimately leading to an eight-year ban for Streak.</p>

<ol>
	<li>In September 2017, Mr Streak began a WhatsApp conversation with an Indian gentleman, Mr X, at Mr X's instigation, who said he was interested in organizing a league in Zimbabwe and who asked Mr Streak if he would be interested as he could earn some good money from it.</li>
	<li>During these discussions, Mr X made it clear to Mr Streak that he was involved in betting on cricket, and also requested details of Mr Streak's bank account outside Zimbabwe, which Mr Streak provided. Mr Streak also made it clear in these discussions that he wanted to establish a T20 League in Zimbabwe and was passionate about furthering cricket in Zimbabwe.</li>
	<li>These conversations took place via personal email addresses and phones and not official ones, at both Mr Streak and Mr X's request.</li>
</ol>

<p>During the course of these conversations, which lasted for a period of more than 15 months, Mr X asked Mr Streak to provide him with various information in relation to tournaments and matches he was involved with.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/zimbabawes-former-cricket-captain-heath-streak-banned-for-eight-years-under-icc-anti-corruption-code-377514" hreflang="en">Zimbabwe's former cricket captain Heath Streak banned for eight years under ICC Anti-Corruption Code</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>In particular:</strong></p>

<ul>
	<li>In relation to the 2017 edition of the Bangladesh Premier League, (the "BPL"), Mr X asked Mr Streak to provide him with any links, namely team captains, or owners or players, in the BPL, saying they could earn good money as a result which they could invest in a T20 event in Zimbabwe. It appeared that Mr X wanted Mr Streak to provide him with contacts of players, team owners etc. who Mr X could then approach for Inside Information, such as which team would win a match, in upcoming matches.</li>
	<li>Mr Streak provided Mr X with the contact details of three players in the BPL (including the details of a national captain), in circumstances where he knew or should have known that Mr X may use these details to contact these players and request Inside Information from them for him to use for betting purposes. Further, in respect of two of these players, Mr Streak actually contacted the players to effectively vouch for Mr X.</li>
	<li>Mr X asked for player references for the Pakistan Super League 2018.</li>
	<li>In relation to the 2018 edition of the Afghanistan Premier League (the "APL"), Mr Streak facilitated the introduction of Mr X to one player and attempted to facilitate the introduction of Mr X to another player.</li>
	<li>Mr X also requested, and Mr Streak provided, Inside Information relating to matches in the APL.</li>
</ul>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/babar-azam-dethrones-virat-kohli-as-no-1-odi-batsman-in-icc-rankings-377486" hreflang="en">Babar Azam dethrones Virat Kohli as no. 1 ODI batsman in ICC Rankings</a></strong></p>

<ol>
	<li>Mr Streak has accepted that passing on this information to Mr X amounted to Corrupt Conduct under the Code.</li>
	<li>Mr Streak has also admitted accepting 2 bitcoins from Mr X (subsequently converted into USD 35,000 in cash). Mr Streak has accepted that, despite his obligation to do so, he failed to disclose receipt of this payment to the ICC ACU or any relevant Designated Anti-Corruption Official.</li>
	<li>Mr Streak has also accepted that, despite his obligation to do so, he failed to report any of the approaches he received from Mr X to engage in Corrupt Conduct to the ICC ACU or any relevant Designated Anti-Corruption Official.</li>
	<li>During the APL, Mr X gifted Mr Streak with a new iPhone for his wife, a gift which Mr Streak has accepted he did not disclose to the ICC ACU or the Designated Anti-Corruption Official.</li>
	<li>In December 2018, Mr Streak was advised by the ACU that he was to attend an interview with the ACU in January. During this call, Mr Streak was given notice that he would be required to present any phones and SIM cards that he had used in 2018 at the interview.</li>
	<li>Prior to his interview with the ACU, Mr Streak engaged in a series of WhatsApp messages with Mr X, knowing that Mr X himself had recently been interviewed by the ACU. These WhatsApp conversations between Mr X and Mr Streak related to what Mr X had told the ACU in his interviews. In these conversations, Mr Streak has admitted that he and Mr X effectively discussed what Mr Streak should say in the interviews to ensure that they both told the same story (a story which on occasions was not true) and consequently he has admitted that his conduct in so doing could be construed as misleading or obstructing the ACU's investigation. Mr Streak also sought clarification from Mr X over the interview process and what Mr X had told the ACU on certain matters.</li>
	<li>Additionally, following this conversation, Mr Streak has admitted that, at the instruction of Mr X, he deleted these messages from his phone before he attended the ACU interview, as well as deleting Mr X's phone number from his phone. In so doing, Mr Streak accepts that his conduct in this regard was wrong.<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
</ol>


The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Wednesday (April 14) suspended former Zimbabwe captain Heath Streak from cricket for a period of eight years after accepting five charges of breaching the ICC Anti-Corruption Code.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Wednesday (April 14) suspended former Zimbabwe captain Heath Streak from cricket for a period of eight years after accepting five charges of breaching the ICC Anti-Corruption Code. The legendary Zimbabwean pacer was charged under the Code of the virtue of his status as the coach of the Zimbabwe national team from 2016 to 2018 and as coach of various domestic teams. Heath accepted disclosing information under both ICC Code and various domestic Codes. In particular, he disclosed inside information in relation to matches in the 2018 Tri-Series involving Zimbabwe, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, the Zimbabwe v Afghanistan series in 2018, the IPL 2018 and the APL 2018. But what information was gathered during the entire investigation process involving Heath Streak? ICC provided a redacted document of information obtained through its investigation, ultimately leading to an eight-year ban for Streak. In September 2017, Mr Streak began a WhatsApp conversation with an Indian gentleman, Mr X, at Mr X's instigation, who said he was interested in organizing a league in Zimbabwe and who asked Mr Streak if he would be interested as he could earn some good money from it. During these discussions, Mr X made it clear to Mr Streak that he was involved in betting on cricket, and also requested details of Mr Streak's bank account outside Zimbabwe, which Mr Streak provided. Mr Streak also made it clear in these discussions that he wanted to establish a T20 League in Zimbabwe and was passionate about furthering cricket in Zimbabwe. These conversations took place via personal email addresses and phones and not official ones, at both Mr Streak and Mr X's request. During the course of these conversations, which lasted for a period of more than 15 months, Mr X asked Mr Streak to provide him with various information in relation to tournaments and matches he was involved with. ALSO READ: Zimbabwe's former cricket captain Heath Streak banned for eight years under ICC Anti-Corruption Code In particular: In relation to the 2017 edition of the Bangladesh Premier League, (the "BPL"), Mr X asked Mr Streak to provide him with any links, namely team captains, or owners or players, in the BPL, saying they could earn good money as a result which they could invest in a T20 event in Zimbabwe. It appeared that Mr X wanted Mr Streak to provide him with contacts of players, team owners etc. who Mr X could then approach for Inside Information, such as which team would win a match, in upcoming matches. Mr Streak provided Mr X with the contact details of three players in the BPL (including the details of a national captain), in circumstances where he knew or should have known that Mr X may use these details to contact these players and request Inside Information from them for him to use for betting purposes. Further, in respect of two of these players, Mr Streak actually contacted the players to effectively vouch for Mr X. Mr X asked for player references for the Pakistan Super League 2018. In relation to the 2018 edition of the Afghanistan Premier League (the "APL"), Mr Streak facilitated the introduction of Mr X to one player and attempted to facilitate the introduction of Mr X to another player. Mr X also requested, and Mr Streak provided, Inside Information relating to matches in the APL. ALSO READ: Babar Azam dethrones Virat Kohli as no. 1 ODI batsman in ICC Rankings Mr Streak has accepted that passing on this information to Mr X amounted to Corrupt Conduct under the Code. Mr Streak has also admitted accepting 2 bitcoins from Mr X (subsequently converted into USD 35,000 in cash). Mr Streak has accepted that, despite his obligation to do so, he failed to disclose receipt of this payment to the ICC ACU or any relevant Designated Anti-Corruption Official. Mr Streak has also accepted that, despite his obligation to do so, he failed to report any of the approaches he received from Mr X to engage in Corrupt Conduct to the ICC ACU or any relevant Designated Anti-Corruption Official. During the APL, Mr X gifted Mr Streak with a new iPhone for his wife, a gift which Mr Streak has accepted he did not disclose to the ICC ACU or the Designated Anti-Corruption Official. In December 2018, Mr Streak was advised by the ACU that he was to attend an interview with the ACU in January. During this call, Mr Streak was given notice that he would be required to present any phones and SIM cards that he had used in 2018 at the interview. Prior to his interview with the ACU, Mr Streak engaged in a series of WhatsApp messages with Mr X, knowing that Mr X himself had recently been interviewed by the ACU. These WhatsApp conversations between Mr X and Mr Streak related to what Mr X had told the ACU in his interviews. In these conversations, Mr Streak has admitted that he and Mr X effectively discussed what Mr Streak should say in the interviews to ensure that they both told the same story (a story which on occasions was not true) and consequently he has admitted that his conduct in so doing could be construed as misleading or obstructing the ACU's investigation. Mr Streak also sought clarification from Mr X over the interview process and what Mr X had told the ACU on certain matters. Additionally, following this conversation, Mr Streak has admitted that, at the instruction of Mr X, he deleted these messages from his phone before he attended the ACU interview, as well as deleting Mr X's phone number from his phone. In so doing, Mr Streak accepts that his conduct in this regard was wrong.

Heath Streak banned for 8 years: What ICC ACU found in its investigation of case

<p class="MsoNormal">Mumbai Indians leg-spinner Rahul Chahar was the pick of the bowler for his side in the 10-run thrilling win over Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by taking four wickets in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 match at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Friday.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">KKR, after restricting Mumbai Indians to 152, were looking comfortable in their chase with openers Shubman Gill and Nitish Rana stitching a 72-run stand. However, Chahar turned the game by sending the likes of Gill, Rana, Rahul Tripathi and Eoin Morgan back to the dugout in quick succession. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">MI worked the window of opportunity well as KKR choked in the final five overs despite Andre Russell and Dinesh Karthik being there on the crease. Chahar was named the Man of the Match for his spell.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">After the win, Chahar revealed the words of motivation by skipper Rohit Sharma when he came into the bowl in a crunch situation. Rohit motivated the leg-spinner by saying that even he fails to read his variations and asked him to focus and hit the right lengths.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-delhi-capitals-pacer-anrich-nortje-tests-positive-for-covid-19-377494" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Delhi Capitals pacer Anrich Nortje tests positive for COVID-19</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“Rohit told me that ‘bowl with the confidence and sometimes even I fail to read your ball so how would they. Stay focused and hit the right lengths’. I knew that spinner is going to be a game-changer in this match. I had the confidence that I can do that,” Rahul Chahar said in the post-match press conference.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“I enjoyed Rahul Tripathi’s wicket most as that ball turned well. As a leg-spinner, you want that kind of turn and it was exactly like that,” he added.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shameful-defeat-sehwag-questions-andre-russell-and-dinesh-karthiks-intent-after-kkr-collapse-377468" hreflang="en">Shameful defeat': Sehwag questions Andre Russell and Dinesh Karthik's intent after KKR collapse</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Chahar further said that he along with Krunal Pandya will play a vital role for Mumbai Indians in spin-friendly pitches in India.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“We both bowled well. Krunal did not give many runs in his spell. In the last match it was not like this but this time there was help from the wicket for spinners. We will play the main role if we get these kinds of wickets."<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">When asked about the pressure of bowling against big-name international stars, he said, “I was bowling to Indian players in the nets so there was no such pressure in bowling against international stars. This is my fourth year in MI and in the nets also I bowl to Pollard, Hardik who are among the best hitters in the world.”</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>

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<p>Mumbai Indians will be next seen in action against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Saturday in Chennai.<o:p></o:p></p>


Mumbai Indians leg-spinner Rahul Chahar was the pick of the bowler for his side in the 10-run thrilling win over Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by taking four wickets in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 match at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Friday.

Mumbai Indians leg-spinner Rahul Chahar was the pick of the bowler for his side in the 10-run thrilling win over Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by taking four wickets in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 match at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Friday. KKR, after restricting Mumbai Indians to 152, were looking comfortable in their chase with openers Shubman Gill and Nitish Rana stitching a 72-run stand. However, Chahar turned the game by sending the likes of Gill, Rana, Rahul Tripathi and Eoin Morgan back to the dugout in quick succession. MI worked the window of opportunity well as KKR choked in the final five overs despite Andre Russell and Dinesh Karthik being there on the crease. Chahar was named the Man of the Match for his spell. After the win, Chahar revealed the words of motivation by skipper Rohit Sharma when he came into the bowl in a crunch situation. Rohit motivated the leg-spinner by saying that even he fails to read his variations and asked him to focus and hit the right lengths. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Delhi Capitals pacer Anrich Nortje tests positive for COVID-19 “Rohit told me that ‘bowl with the confidence and sometimes even I fail to read your ball so how would they. Stay focused and hit the right lengths’. I knew that spinner is going to be a game-changer in this match. I had the confidence that I can do that,” Rahul Chahar said in the post-match press conference. “I enjoyed Rahul Tripathi’s wicket most as that ball turned well. As a leg-spinner, you want that kind of turn and it was exactly like that,” he added. ALSO READ: Shameful defeat': Sehwag questions Andre Russell and Dinesh Karthik's intent after KKR collapse Chahar further said that he along with Krunal Pandya will play a vital role for Mumbai Indians in spin-friendly pitches in India. “We both bowled well. Krunal did not give many runs in his spell. In the last match it was not like this but this time there was help from the wicket for spinners. We will play the main role if we get these kinds of wickets." When asked about the pressure of bowling against big-name international stars, he said, “I was bowling to Indian players in the nets so there was no such pressure in bowling against international stars. This is my fourth year in MI and in the nets also I bowl to Pollard, Hardik who are among the best hitters in the world.” × Mumbai Indians will be next seen in action against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Saturday in Chennai.

Even I fail to read your deliveries: How Rohit Sharma motivated Rahul Chahar vs KKR

<p class="MsoNormal">Sunrisers Hyderabad are set to lock horns with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Wednesday. While SRH suffered a defeat in their IPL 2021 opener, RCB defeated defending champions Mumbai Indians to commence their campaign.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">RCB are likely to bolster their batting order by involving opener Devdutt Padikkal, who was rested in the opener due to precautionary measure. Both SRH and RCB have balanced side on paper and it would be interesting to see how they use the slow and dry conditions in Chennai on Wednesday. However, there are chances of rain during the SRH and RCB match on Wednesday.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-delhi-capitals-pacer-anrich-nortje-tests-positive-for-covid-19-377494" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Delhi Capitals pacer Anrich Nortje tests positive for COVID-19</a></strong></p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal"><o:p>SRH vs RCB, IPL 2021: MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai - Pitch report</o:p></h2>

<p class="MsoNormal">The Chennai pitch has been assisting spinners in IPL 2021. While pacers have taken more wickets in Chennai, spinners have dominated the matches more. The last couple of matches have witnessed chasing become difficult in the death overs and it is likely that teams will start to bat first sooner rather than later.</p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal"><o:p>SRH vs RCB, IPL 2021: Chennai weather forecast - Rain to play spoilsport?</o:p></h2>

<p class="MsoNormal">Cloudy weather is expected during the course of SRH vs RCB match on Wednesday. According to Accuweather, the temperature is expected to be around 30 degree Celcius. There are chances of rain interruption during the match.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/babar-azam-dethrones-virat-kohli-as-no-1-odi-batsman-in-icc-rankings-377486" hreflang="en">Babar Azam dethrones Virat Kohli as no. 1 ODI batsman in ICC Rankings</a></strong></p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal"><o:p>SRH vs RCB, IPL 2021: Head-to-head stats</o:p></h2>

<p class="MsoNormal">SRH and RCB have played each other 17 times in IPL history. SRH lead the Bengaluru outfit by 10-7 in what has been a tightly fought battle between two good teams. In IPL 2020, both sides won a match against each other. However, SRH pipped RCB in the Eliminator of IPL 2020.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>

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Sunrisers Hyderabad are set to lock horns with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Wednesday.

Sunrisers Hyderabad are set to lock horns with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Wednesday. While SRH suffered a defeat in their IPL 2021 opener, RCB defeated defending champions Mumbai Indians to commence their campaign. RCB are likely to bolster their batting order by involving opener Devdutt Padikkal, who was rested in the opener due to precautionary measure. Both SRH and RCB have balanced side on paper and it would be interesting to see how they use the slow and dry conditions in Chennai on Wednesday. However, there are chances of rain during the SRH and RCB match on Wednesday. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Delhi Capitals pacer Anrich Nortje tests positive for COVID-19 SRH vs RCB, IPL 2021: MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai - Pitch report The Chennai pitch has been assisting spinners in IPL 2021. While pacers have taken more wickets in Chennai, spinners have dominated the matches more. The last couple of matches have witnessed chasing become difficult in the death overs and it is likely that teams will start to bat first sooner rather than later. SRH vs RCB, IPL 2021: Chennai weather forecast - Rain to play spoilsport? Cloudy weather is expected during the course of SRH vs RCB match on Wednesday. According to Accuweather, the temperature is expected to be around 30 degree Celcius. There are chances of rain interruption during the match. ALSO READ: Babar Azam dethrones Virat Kohli as no. 1 ODI batsman in ICC Rankings SRH vs RCB, IPL 2021: Head-to-head stats SRH and RCB have played each other 17 times in IPL history. SRH lead the Bengaluru outfit by 10-7 in what has been a tightly fought battle between two good teams. In IPL 2020, both sides won a match against each other. However, SRH pipped RCB in the Eliminator of IPL 2020. ×

SRH vs RCB, IPL 2021 - Rain to play spoilsport?: Chepauk Stadium pitch report, Chennai weather forecast - All you need to know

<p class="MsoNormal">Delhi Capitals and South Africa pacer Anrich Nortje has tested positive for COVID-19 ahead of DC’s second Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 match against Rajasthan Royals at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Nortje and Kagiso Rabada arrived in India on April 6 and were undergoing a mandatory seven-day quarantine. While Nortje came in with a negative report, he tested positive while undergoing quarantine.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Speaking to ANI, sources in the know of developments said that the pacer tested positive while undergoing quarantine. "He came in with a negative report, but has unfortunately tested positive now while undergoing quarantine," the source said.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shameful-defeat-sehwag-questions-andre-russell-and-dinesh-karthiks-intent-after-kkr-collapse-377468" hreflang="en">'Shameful defeat': Sehwag questions Andre Russell and Dinesh Karthik's intent after KKR collapse</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The BCCI SOP states that a member of the squad, who tests positive for the dreaded virus, must isolate in the designated area outside the bio-secure environment for a minimum of 10 days from the first day of symptoms or collection of the sample. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Nortje participated in the ODI series against Pakistan. After playing the first two ODIs, the Proteas pacer started his journey to IPL 2021.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Delhi Capitals now have been dealt with a triple blow in IPL 2021. While regular skipper Shreyas Iyer was ruled out before the tournament started with a shoulder injury, all-rounder Axar Patel tested positive for COVID-19 followed by Nortje's positive report for the virus.&nbsp;</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">(With ANI inputs)</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>

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Delhi Capitals and South Africa pacer Anrich Nortje has tested positive for COVID-19 ahead of DC’s second Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 match against Rajasthan Royals at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.

Delhi Capitals and South Africa pacer Anrich Nortje has tested positive for COVID-19 ahead of DC’s second Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 match against Rajasthan Royals at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Nortje and Kagiso Rabada arrived in India on April 6 and were undergoing a mandatory seven-day quarantine. While Nortje came in with a negative report, he tested positive while undergoing quarantine. Speaking to ANI, sources in the know of developments said that the pacer tested positive while undergoing quarantine. "He came in with a negative report, but has unfortunately tested positive now while undergoing quarantine," the source said. ALSO READ: 'Shameful defeat': Sehwag questions Andre Russell and Dinesh Karthik's intent after KKR collapse The BCCI SOP states that a member of the squad, who tests positive for the dreaded virus, must isolate in the designated area outside the bio-secure environment for a minimum of 10 days from the first day of symptoms or collection of the sample. Nortje participated in the ODI series against Pakistan. After playing the first two ODIs, the Proteas pacer started his journey to IPL 2021. Delhi Capitals now have been dealt with a triple blow in IPL 2021. While regular skipper Shreyas Iyer was ruled out before the tournament started with a shoulder injury, all-rounder Axar Patel tested positive for COVID-19 followed by Nortje's positive report for the virus. (With ANI inputs) ×

IPL 2021: Delhi Capitals pacer Anrich Nortje tests positive for COVID-19

<p>Pakistan skipper Babar Azam on Wednesday became the number one batsman in One-Day International (ODI) cricket, according to the latest ICC ODI Players Rankings update.</p>

<p>Babar replaces Indian captain Virat Kohli at the top of the table with as many as 865 points. Kohli sits second in the latest ICC ODI Rankings with 857 points followed by Rohit Sharma, who has 825 points to his name.</p>

<p>Kohli was the number one ranked ODI batsman from August 2017 to April 2021, counting to 1,258 days.</p>

<p>By ending Kohli’s 1,258 day-supremacy, Babar has emulated compatriots Zaheer Abbas (1983-84), Javed Miandad (1988-89), and Mohammad Yousuf (2003) as the number one ODI batsman. In Tests, Babar has attained the best of the fifth position and is currently ranked sixth while in T20Is he is third but has been number one in the past.</p>

<p>Babar, who was the second-highest run-score in Pakistan’s recently concluded three-match ODI series against South Africa with 228 runs and the highest score of 103, has now dethroned Kohli to sit atop the ICC ODI Rankings.</p>

<p>Babar made his debut against Zimbabwe in 2015 and has amassed 3808 runs in 78 ODI innings at a splendid average of 56.83. The elegant right-handed batsman has 13 centuries and 17 half-centuries under his belt.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/list-of-five-major-records-rcb-captain-virat-kohli-can-break-in-ipl-2021-375916">List of records Virat Kohli can break in IPL 2021</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A good update for 🇵🇰<br />
<br />
Fakhar Zaman, following a brilliant series against South Africa, has surged five places to No.8 in the latest <a href="https://twitter.com/MRFWorldwide?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MRFWorldwide</a> ICC men’s ODI rankings for batsmen 👏 <a href="https://t.co/HheS38uijO">pic.twitter.com/HheS38uijO</a></p>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1382252708015443971?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Left-handed opener Fakhar Zaman is another Pakistan batsman to move up the ODI batting charts, gaining five slots to reach a career-best seventh position after his knock of 101 while left-arm fast bowler Shaheen Afridi (up four places to a career-best 11th&nbsp;place) and left-arm spinner Mohammad Nawaz (up 29 places to 96th) have progressed thanks to their three-wicket hauls in the match.</p>

<p>For South Africa, all-rounder Andile Phehlukwayo has gained 11 slots to reach 83rd&nbsp;position after notching a half-century while captain Temba Bavuma has progressed from 88th&nbsp;to 86th&nbsp;place.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-the-end-of-world-andre-russell-reacts-to-shah-rukh-khans-apology-tweet-after-mi-defeat-377454" hreflang="en">Not the end of world: Andre Russell reacts to Shah Rukh Khan's apology tweet after MI defeat</a></strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>


Pakistan skipper Babar Azam on Wednesday became the number one batsman in One-Day International (ODI) cricket, according to the latest ICC ODI Players Rankings update.

Pakistan skipper Babar Azam on Wednesday became the number one batsman in One-Day International (ODI) cricket, according to the latest ICC ODI Players Rankings update. Babar replaces Indian captain Virat Kohli at the top of the table with as many as 865 points. Kohli sits second in the latest ICC ODI Rankings with 857 points followed by Rohit Sharma, who has 825 points to his name. Kohli was the number one ranked ODI batsman from August 2017 to April 2021, counting to 1,258 days. By ending Kohli’s 1,258 day-supremacy, Babar has emulated compatriots Zaheer Abbas (1983-84), Javed Miandad (1988-89), and Mohammad Yousuf (2003) as the number one ODI batsman. In Tests, Babar has attained the best of the fifth position and is currently ranked sixth while in T20Is he is third but has been number one in the past. Babar, who was the second-highest run-score in Pakistan’s recently concluded three-match ODI series against South Africa with 228 runs and the highest score of 103, has now dethroned Kohli to sit atop the ICC ODI Rankings. Babar made his debut against Zimbabwe in 2015 and has amassed 3808 runs in 78 ODI innings at a splendid average of 56.83. The elegant right-handed batsman has 13 centuries and 17 half-centuries under his belt. ALSO READ: List of records Virat Kohli can break in IPL 2021 A good update for 🇵🇰 Fakhar Zaman, following a brilliant series against South Africa, has surged five places to No.8 in the latest @MRFWorldwide ICC men’s ODI rankings for batsmen 👏 pic.twitter.com/HheS38uijO — ICC (@ICC) April 14, 2021 × Left-handed opener Fakhar Zaman is another Pakistan batsman to move up the ODI batting charts, gaining five slots to reach a career-best seventh position after his knock of 101 while left-arm fast bowler Shaheen Afridi (up four places to a career-best 11th place) and left-arm spinner Mohammad Nawaz (up 29 places to 96th) have progressed thanks to their three-wicket hauls in the match. For South Africa, all-rounder Andile Phehlukwayo has gained 11 slots to reach 83rd position after notching a half-century while captain Temba Bavuma has progressed from 88th to 86th place. ALSO READ: Not the end of world: Andre Russell reacts to Shah Rukh Khan's apology tweet after MI defeat ×

Babar Azam dethrones Virat Kohli as no. 1 ODI batsman in ICC Rankings

<p>Thomas Tuchel urged his young Chelsea team to embrace their Champions League "adventure" after they reached the semi-finals for the first time since 2014 despite a 1-0 defeat against Porto in Tuesday's quarter-final second leg.</p>

<p>Tuchel's side will play Real Madrid or Liverpool for a place in the final after producing a masterclass in game management to win 2-1 on aggregate in Seville.</p>

<p>Real travel to Anfield on Wednesday looking to protect a 3-1 lead from the first leg.</p>

<p>They could do worse than copy Tuchel's tactics as Chelsea smothered Porto with an intelligent defensive approach until Mehdi Taremi's stunning bicycle kick in the last minute of stoppage time.</p>

<p>That sublime strike was out of character with the rest of Porto's display as they laboured to overturn the 2-0 first-leg deficit.</p>

<p>Chelsea have lost only once in 18 matches since Tuchel replaced the sacked Frank Lampard in January and this was another feather in the German's cap.</p>

<p>Making it to the last four is an even more admirable feat given the lack of Champions League experience among the majority of Tuchel's squad.</p>

<p>Tuchel knows the likes of Mason Mount, Reece James, Kai Havertz, Ben Chilwell and Christian Pulisic are all learning on the job, but he hopes their fearlessness will be invaluable.</p>

<p>"Mason scored his first goal in the competition in the first leg. When Mbappe scores or Salah scores or Benzema scores, it is their 100th goal or their 50th goal in the competition," Tuchel said.</p>

<p>"We arrive with a very young team. They can fight and run and hang in there. We have to take it like an adventure for them. It is a big step.</p>

<p>"You see when Chelsea were last in the semi-finals. We are not used to being there. It's a big achievement."</p>

<p>Tuchel had admitted this week was a make or break period for Chelsea.</p>

<p>They passed the first test and can now focus on Saturday's FA Cup semi-final against Premier League leaders Manchester City at Wembley before returning to the Champions League trail.</p>

<p>"Once you are there you play to reach the final. We need every minute to learn and to grow.&nbsp;You cannot improve without these experiences," Tuchel said.</p>

<p>"We cannot rely on the biggest experience but we can rely on a hard working young group. Hopefully we can stay adventurous to accept the challenge. It will be a big one coming."</p>

<h2>- 'Incredible' Kante -</h2>

<p>Praising France midfielder N'Golo Kante's influential display in his first start since a hamstring injury, Tuchel said: "N'Golo is incredible, he is like one and a half or two players.</p>

<p>"Everyone who sees him for the first time loves him. He wins so many balls and gives everybody confidence."</p>

<p>Tuchel this week said he wouldn't want to fight Antonio Rudiger or Cesar Azpilicueta, such is the ferocious will to win coursing through Chelsea's most vocal players.</p>

<p>Both defenders lived up to Tuchel's billing as they fought tooth and nail to keep Porto at bay in a niggly clash.</p>

<p>Porto manager Sergio Conceicao added: "I'm really frustrated but I'm proud of what we did in both matches.</p>

<p>"Our performance was very good. We were more of a team than Chelsea. We just lacked that bit of efficiency."</p>

<p>Chelsea goalkeeper Edouard Mendy gifted Porto a golden opportunity for a priceless early goal when his miscued pass went straight to Jesus Corona inside the penalty area.</p>

<p>But Corona couldn't keep his composure and Jorginho did enough to ensure the shot flashed wide.</p>

<p>Corona's profligacy let Porto down again when he lashed hurriedly over from 12 yards after Ben Chilwell misjudged Otavio's high ball.</p>

<p>Taremi's eye-catching strike with seconds left came far too late for a dramatic finale, with tempers flaring in a heated exchange involving Rudiger and several Porto players after the final whistle.</p>


Thomas Tuchel urged his young Chelsea team to embrace their Champions League "adventure" after they reached the semi-finals for the first time since 2014 despite a 1-0 defeat against Porto in Tuesday's quarter-final second leg.

Thomas Tuchel urged his young Chelsea team to embrace their Champions League "adventure" after they reached the semi-finals for the first time since 2014 despite a 1-0 defeat against Porto in Tuesday's quarter-final second leg. Tuchel's side will play Real Madrid or Liverpool for a place in the final after producing a masterclass in game management to win 2-1 on aggregate in Seville. Real travel to Anfield on Wednesday looking to protect a 3-1 lead from the first leg. They could do worse than copy Tuchel's tactics as Chelsea smothered Porto with an intelligent defensive approach until Mehdi Taremi's stunning bicycle kick in the last minute of stoppage time. That sublime strike was out of character with the rest of Porto's display as they laboured to overturn the 2-0 first-leg deficit. Chelsea have lost only once in 18 matches since Tuchel replaced the sacked Frank Lampard in January and this was another feather in the German's cap. Making it to the last four is an even more admirable feat given the lack of Champions League experience among the majority of Tuchel's squad. Tuchel knows the likes of Mason Mount, Reece James, Kai Havertz, Ben Chilwell and Christian Pulisic are all learning on the job, but he hopes their fearlessness will be invaluable. "Mason scored his first goal in the competition in the first leg. When Mbappe scores or Salah scores or Benzema scores, it is their 100th goal or their 50th goal in the competition," Tuchel said. "We arrive with a very young team. They can fight and run and hang in there. We have to take it like an adventure for them. It is a big step. "You see when Chelsea were last in the semi-finals. We are not used to being there. It's a big achievement." Tuchel had admitted this week was a make or break period for Chelsea. They passed the first test and can now focus on Saturday's FA Cup semi-final against Premier League leaders Manchester City at Wembley before returning to the Champions League trail. "Once you are there you play to reach the final. We need every minute to learn and to grow. You cannot improve without these experiences," Tuchel said. "We cannot rely on the biggest experience but we can rely on a hard working young group. Hopefully we can stay adventurous to accept the challenge. It will be a big one coming." - 'Incredible' Kante - Praising France midfielder N'Golo Kante's influential display in his first start since a hamstring injury, Tuchel said: "N'Golo is incredible, he is like one and a half or two players. "Everyone who sees him for the first time loves him. He wins so many balls and gives everybody confidence." Tuchel this week said he wouldn't want to fight Antonio Rudiger or Cesar Azpilicueta, such is the ferocious will to win coursing through Chelsea's most vocal players. Both defenders lived up to Tuchel's billing as they fought tooth and nail to keep Porto at bay in a niggly clash. Porto manager Sergio Conceicao added: "I'm really frustrated but I'm proud of what we did in both matches. "Our performance was very good. We were more of a team than Chelsea. We just lacked that bit of efficiency." Chelsea goalkeeper Edouard Mendy gifted Porto a golden opportunity for a priceless early goal when his miscued pass went straight to Jesus Corona inside the penalty area. But Corona couldn't keep his composure and Jorginho did enough to ensure the shot flashed wide. Corona's profligacy let Porto down again when he lashed hurriedly over from 12 yards after Ben Chilwell misjudged Otavio's high ball. Taremi's eye-catching strike with seconds left came far too late for a dramatic finale, with tempers flaring in a heated exchange involving Rudiger and several Porto players after the final whistle.

Chelsea enters Champions League semis for first time since 2014

IPL 2021: Kolkata Knight Riders choke as Mumbai Indians continue dominance

<p class="MsoNormal">Mumbai Indians on Tuesday continued their domination over Kolkata Knight Riders as they defeated the Eoin Morgan-led outfit by 10 runs at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Despite posting just 152 runs on the board, MI successfully defended the target in what was a last-moment crumble by KKR. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">After being invited to bat first, MI were off to a shaky start as they lost opener Quinton de Kock for cheap. Rohit Sharma, too, looked out of his natural rhythm and struggled during his 43-run knock in the middle. While Suryakumar Yadav smashed a blistering half-century, 56 off 36 balls, others struggled against a well-oiled KKR unit which was used to its optimum by skipper Morgan.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ben-stokes-ruled-out-of-ipl-2021-with-a-finger-injury-377361" hreflang="en">Ben Stokes ruled out of IPL 2021 with a finger injury</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Mumbai Indians ended up posting 152/10 after Krunal Pandya’s 15 off 9 at the death. For KKR, Andre Russell ended up with a five-wicket-haul to complete the best bowling figures by a KKR bowler against the Mumbai franchise.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Chasing 153, KKR openers Shubman Gill and Nitish Rana were off to a brisk start as they stitched a 72-run opening stand. However, KKR lost three quick wickets in Gill (33), Rahul Tripathi (5) and skipper Morgan (7) as MI tightened the screws during the middle overs. Nitish Rana was dismissed by Rahul Chahar after a sublime 57-run knock.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kevin-pietersen-names-his-dark-horses-to-win-ipl-2021-377350" hreflang="en">Kevin Pietersen names his 'dark horses' to win IPL 2021</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Dinesh Karthik and Andre Russell struggled to connect the ball as Krunal Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah and Trent Boult helped MI win the match in what can be described as a last-over thriller.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">MI registered their first win of IPL 2021 whereas KKR their first defeat of the T20 tournament. <o:p></o:p></p>


Mumbai Indians on Tuesday continued their domination over Kolkata Knight Riders as they defeated the Eoin Morgan-led outfit by 10 runs at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

Mumbai Indians on Tuesday continued their domination over Kolkata Knight Riders as they defeated the Eoin Morgan-led outfit by 10 runs at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Despite posting just 152 runs on the board, MI successfully defended the target in what was a last-moment crumble by KKR. After being invited to bat first, MI were off to a shaky start as they lost opener Quinton de Kock for cheap. Rohit Sharma, too, looked out of his natural rhythm and struggled during his 43-run knock in the middle. While Suryakumar Yadav smashed a blistering half-century, 56 off 36 balls, others struggled against a well-oiled KKR unit which was used to its optimum by skipper Morgan. ALSO READ: Ben Stokes ruled out of IPL 2021 with a finger injury Mumbai Indians ended up posting 152/10 after Krunal Pandya’s 15 off 9 at the death. For KKR, Andre Russell ended up with a five-wicket-haul to complete the best bowling figures by a KKR bowler against the Mumbai franchise. Chasing 153, KKR openers Shubman Gill and Nitish Rana were off to a brisk start as they stitched a 72-run opening stand. However, KKR lost three quick wickets in Gill (33), Rahul Tripathi (5) and skipper Morgan (7) as MI tightened the screws during the middle overs. Nitish Rana was dismissed by Rahul Chahar after a sublime 57-run knock. ALSO READ: Kevin Pietersen names his 'dark horses' to win IPL 2021 Dinesh Karthik and Andre Russell struggled to connect the ball as Krunal Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah and Trent Boult helped MI win the match in what can be described as a last-over thriller. MI registered their first win of IPL 2021 whereas KKR their first defeat of the T20 tournament.

Mumbai Indians defeat Kolkata Knight Riders in last-over thriller in IPL 2021

<p class="MsoNormal">Rajasthan Royals and England all-rounder Ben Stokes has been ruled out of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 in what has been termed as a finger injury.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Stokes sustained the injury during Rajasthan Royals’ opening match against Punjab Kings on Monday while taking a catch to get the wicket of Chris Gayle. After dropping a catch earlier in the match against PBKS, Stokes ran hard from long-on and dived forward in a bid to complete the catch to dismiss Gayle. However, he immediately felt discomfort in his left hand. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">However, the all-rounder continued to play the match and even came to open the ball but ended up with a three-ball duck. Rajasthan Royals fell five-run short in their 222-run chase.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kevin-pietersen-names-his-dark-horses-to-win-ipl-2021-377350" hreflang="en">Kevin Pietersen names his 'dark horses' to win IPL 2021</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">According to Independent, Stokes will remain in India for a week and talks have started between the ECB and Rajasthan Royals on managing the injury. Stokes will have an X-Ray in India on Thursday to know how much damage he has taken before the ECB take over the planning of the recovery.</p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Official statement by Rajasthan Royals on Ben Stokes:</h2>

<p><em>Rajasthan Royals all-rounder Ben Stokes injured a finger on his left hand while fielding during the team's match against Punjab Kings on 12 April 2021 in Mumbai. Subsequent investigations revealed that he sustained a broken finger, which will unfortunately rule him out of the remainder of the Indian Premier League 2021 season.</em></p>

<p><em>Everyone at Rajasthan Royals absolutely admires Ben for being such a huge asset and a valuable member of the Royals family, both on and off the field, and wishes him a speedy recovery. We are delighted that Ben would like to stay with the group to provide his valued support and inputs off the field. In the meantime, we will be reviewing potential replacement options for the remainder of the season.</em></p>

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<p>ECB would be scratching their heads over the fitness of ace all-rounder before a jam-packed nine months to follow. After playing New Zealand, England will host five Tests against India and will then proceed for the T20 World Cup and the Ashes. Stokes is key to England’s team across formats and the injury will come as a huge blow to the reigning 50-over world champions.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p>&nbsp;</o:p></p>


Rajasthan Royals and England all-rounder Ben Stokes has been ruled out of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 in what has been termed as a finger injury.

Rajasthan Royals and England all-rounder Ben Stokes has been ruled out of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 in what has been termed as a finger injury. Stokes sustained the injury during Rajasthan Royals’ opening match against Punjab Kings on Monday while taking a catch to get the wicket of Chris Gayle. After dropping a catch earlier in the match against PBKS, Stokes ran hard from long-on and dived forward in a bid to complete the catch to dismiss Gayle. However, he immediately felt discomfort in his left hand. However, the all-rounder continued to play the match and even came to open the ball but ended up with a three-ball duck. Rajasthan Royals fell five-run short in their 222-run chase. ALSO READ: Kevin Pietersen names his 'dark horses' to win IPL 2021 According to Independent, Stokes will remain in India for a week and talks have started between the ECB and Rajasthan Royals on managing the injury. Stokes will have an X-Ray in India on Thursday to know how much damage he has taken before the ECB take over the planning of the recovery. Official statement by Rajasthan Royals on Ben Stokes: Rajasthan Royals all-rounder Ben Stokes injured a finger on his left hand while fielding during the team's match against Punjab Kings on 12 April 2021 in Mumbai. Subsequent investigations revealed that he sustained a broken finger, which will unfortunately rule him out of the remainder of the Indian Premier League 2021 season. Everyone at Rajasthan Royals absolutely admires Ben for being such a huge asset and a valuable member of the Royals family, both on and off the field, and wishes him a speedy recovery. We are delighted that Ben would like to stay with the group to provide his valued support and inputs off the field. In the meantime, we will be reviewing potential replacement options for the remainder of the season. × ECB would be scratching their heads over the fitness of ace all-rounder before a jam-packed nine months to follow. After playing New Zealand, England will host five Tests against India and will then proceed for the T20 World Cup and the Ashes. Stokes is key to England’s team across formats and the injury will come as a huge blow to the reigning 50-over world champions.

Ben Stokes ruled out of IPL 2021 with a finger injury

<p class="MsoNormal">Former England batsman Kevin Pietersen has named his ‘dark horses’ to pip hot favourites Mumbai Indians to win the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. Pietersen has said that Punjab Kings can challenge Mumbai Indians for the coveted trophy following a winning start to the T20 tournament.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Interestingly, Punjab are one of the few franchises that are yet to win the IPL trophy while failing to qualify for the playoffs 11 times in 13 attempts. However, Pietersen opined that the addition of Australian pacer Jhye Richardson and the option of having KL Rahul and Chris Gayle at the top make the Punjab franchise ‘dark horses’ to win their maiden IPL trophy.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“Mumbai Indians will always be the favourites because of their pedigree,” Pietersen told Betway.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sourav-ganguly-explains-why-modern-cricketers-like-rishabh-pant-and-hardik-pandya-are-fearless-377341" hreflang="en">Sourav Ganguly explains why modern cricketers like Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya are fearless</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“They have won four of the last six IPLs and come in with some of the best players once again. I’m really interested to see how the Punjab Kings go, though. ‘Last year they lost that one Super Over at the start of the competition and it seemed to set them back, but their form at the end of the season was decent. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“KL Rahul and Chris Gayle are very impressive options at the top and they’ve spent lots of money on the Aussie quick Jhye Richardson. I think they might be the dark horses this year.”<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The IPL is back in India for the 14th edition of the tournament after holding it in the United Arab Emirates last year.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/brian-lara-gives-his-verdict-on-sanju-samsons-decision-to-refuse-morris-a-single-vs-pbks-377322" hreflang="en">Brian Lara gives his verdict on Sanju Samson's decision to refuse Morris a single vs PBKS</a></strong><o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Pietersen added: “For the interest of the viewers and everything associated with the brand, it’s crucial for teams to be playing in their own country.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“The BCCI did brilliantly to get the 2020 IPL on in UAE, but this is where the tournament belongs and it’s brilliant that it’s back. It is a shame that things aren’t quite back to normal yet, though. None of the teams will be playing in their home stadiums and, obviously, there won’t be any fans present at the matches.” <o:p></o:p></p>

<p><span style="font-size:11.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:&quot;Calibri&quot;,sans-serif;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;mso-fareast-theme-font:
minor-latin;mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;mso-bidi-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;mso-ansi-language:EN-US;mso-fareast-language:
EN-US;mso-bidi-language:AR-SA">Pietersen had earlier said that Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) would fail to win the IPL trophy yet again.</span></p>


Former England batsman Kevin Pietersen has named his ‘dark horses’ to pip hot favourites Mumbai Indians to win the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. Pietersen has said that Punjab Kings can challenge Mumbai Indians for the coveted trophy following a winning start to the T20 tournament.

Former England batsman Kevin Pietersen has named his ‘dark horses’ to pip hot favourites Mumbai Indians to win the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. Pietersen has said that Punjab Kings can challenge Mumbai Indians for the coveted trophy following a winning start to the T20 tournament. Interestingly, Punjab are one of the few franchises that are yet to win the IPL trophy while failing to qualify for the playoffs 11 times in 13 attempts. However, Pietersen opined that the addition of Australian pacer Jhye Richardson and the option of having KL Rahul and Chris Gayle at the top make the Punjab franchise ‘dark horses’ to win their maiden IPL trophy. “Mumbai Indians will always be the favourites because of their pedigree,” Pietersen told Betway. ALSO READ: Sourav Ganguly explains why modern cricketers like Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya are fearless “They have won four of the last six IPLs and come in with some of the best players once again. I’m really interested to see how the Punjab Kings go, though. ‘Last year they lost that one Super Over at the start of the competition and it seemed to set them back, but their form at the end of the season was decent. “KL Rahul and Chris Gayle are very impressive options at the top and they’ve spent lots of money on the Aussie quick Jhye Richardson. I think they might be the dark horses this year.” The IPL is back in India for the 14th edition of the tournament after holding it in the United Arab Emirates last year. ALSO READ: Brian Lara gives his verdict on Sanju Samson's decision to refuse Morris a single vs PBKS Pietersen added: “For the interest of the viewers and everything associated with the brand, it’s crucial for teams to be playing in their own country. “The BCCI did brilliantly to get the 2020 IPL on in UAE, but this is where the tournament belongs and it’s brilliant that it’s back. It is a shame that things aren’t quite back to normal yet, though. None of the teams will be playing in their home stadiums and, obviously, there won’t be any fans present at the matches.” Pietersen had earlier said that Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) would fail to win the IPL trophy yet again.

Kevin Pietersen names his 'dark horses' to win IPL 2021

<p>The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly has explained the reason behind India producing fearless cricketers like Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya. The former Indian skipper opined that exposure to different sectors of life has helped the young generation to be “ready” both mentally and skill-wise.</p>

<p>“I think for the modern-day generation exposure has been enormous. It helps them to become fearless because they realise that things are available at their doorsteps. And if they make an effort and are desperate to succeed, they will be successful. So they’re fearless,” the India captain said during a conversation with Hero Vired Founder and CEO Akshay Munjal in a YouTube live show titled ‘You The Future’.</p>

<p>Ganguly went on to name Hardik and Pant while explaining how the current Indian cricket and the youngster have a fearless vibe and look ready at the international arena.</p>

<p>“You look at this current Indian cricket team. The likes of Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya and some of the young fast bowlers who have come at this level, you just see that when they walk out into the International arena, they’re ready. “They’re not just ready skill-wise, but they’re ready mentally also which is very very important,” Ganguly said.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/brian-lara-gives-his-verdict-on-sanju-samsons-decision-to-refuse-morris-a-single-vs-pbks-377322" hreflang="en">Brian Lara gives his verdict on Sanju Samson's decision to refuse Morris a single vs PBKS</a></strong></p>

<p>When asked which thing he misses about international cricket since retiring from the game, Ganguly talked about the pressure to perform and the nerves ahead of match days.</p>

<p>“I miss that nervousness in the morning at 7 o’clock. When I used to wake up and get ready, wearing my track bottoms, shoes to play a Test match…I was under pressure to perform. I knew I cannot afford to fail as if I performed well, by evening 4.30, I’ll be a hero to all the people in the country,” he said recalling his playing days. “So I miss that challenge, miss that pressure, the expectation every morning. I think that is something which every individual should learn to embrace,” Ganguly said, adding that the bit of nervousness actually brings out the best in oneself.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-to-tour-england-with-larger-squad-after-postponement-of-a-tour-377312" hreflang="en">India to tour England with larger squad after postponement of A tour</a></strong></p>

<p>“With everyday you learn, you adapt. It’s the same thing with administration, you adjust, you learn, you share, and most importantly, you require the ability to take decisions because decision-making is important. “It may not be right all the time. But if you have faith, and if you believe that you’re capable of doing things, the majority of your decisions will be right,” he signed off.</p>

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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly has explained the reason behind India producing fearless cricketers like Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly has explained the reason behind India producing fearless cricketers like Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya. The former Indian skipper opined that exposure to different sectors of life has helped the young generation to be “ready” both mentally and skill-wise. “I think for the modern-day generation exposure has been enormous. It helps them to become fearless because they realise that things are available at their doorsteps. And if they make an effort and are desperate to succeed, they will be successful. So they’re fearless,” the India captain said during a conversation with Hero Vired Founder and CEO Akshay Munjal in a YouTube live show titled ‘You The Future’. Ganguly went on to name Hardik and Pant while explaining how the current Indian cricket and the youngster have a fearless vibe and look ready at the international arena. “You look at this current Indian cricket team. The likes of Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya and some of the young fast bowlers who have come at this level, you just see that when they walk out into the International arena, they’re ready. “They’re not just ready skill-wise, but they’re ready mentally also which is very very important,” Ganguly said. ALSO READ: Brian Lara gives his verdict on Sanju Samson's decision to refuse Morris a single vs PBKS When asked which thing he misses about international cricket since retiring from the game, Ganguly talked about the pressure to perform and the nerves ahead of match days. “I miss that nervousness in the morning at 7 o’clock. When I used to wake up and get ready, wearing my track bottoms, shoes to play a Test match…I was under pressure to perform. I knew I cannot afford to fail as if I performed well, by evening 4.30, I’ll be a hero to all the people in the country,” he said recalling his playing days. “So I miss that challenge, miss that pressure, the expectation every morning. I think that is something which every individual should learn to embrace,” Ganguly said, adding that the bit of nervousness actually brings out the best in oneself. ALSO READ: India to tour England with larger squad after postponement of A tour “With everyday you learn, you adapt. It’s the same thing with administration, you adjust, you learn, you share, and most importantly, you require the ability to take decisions because decision-making is important. “It may not be right all the time. But if you have faith, and if you believe that you’re capable of doing things, the majority of your decisions will be right,” he signed off.

Sourav Ganguly explains why modern cricketers like Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya are fearless

<p>Borussia Dortmund are waiting on the fitness of Marco Reus and Mats Hummels for their Champions League quarter-final, home leg against Manchester City on Wednesday with England winger Jadon Sancho definitely ruled out.</p>

<p>Dortmund need to overturn last week's 2-1 first-leg defeat in Manchester when Reus equalised for the Germans before Phil Foden's 90th-minute winner for City.</p>

<p>Reus limped out of Saturday's 3-2 win at Stuttgart, after the attacking midfielder scored for the second match in a row, while centre-back Hummels did not come out for the second half after feeling unwell.</p>

<p>Dortmund coach Edin Terzic said a decision on the pair will be made after seeing how they react in training.</p>

<p>Terzic confirmed the second leg has come too soon for Sancho who is working his way back to fitness from a leg injury.</p>

<p>Dortmund defender Manuel Akanji stressed the importance of Reus to the German club's cause.</p>

<p>"It would be a big loss, he is our captain and played very well recently, scoring two goals," Akanji said Tuesday.</p>

<p>"He knows what it takes to make it through to the next round."</p>

<p>Terzic said Dortmund need "a mix of courage and patience" against City, who are bidding to reach the semi-finals after exiting in the quarters in each of the last four seasons.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rumours persist that Dortmund could lose 20-year-old striker Erling Braut Haaland to a big-money offer this summer.</p>

<p>Dortmund have made it clear they do not want to sell Haaland, who reportedly has a release clause in his contract for 75 million euros ($89 million) from 2022.</p>

<p>"As a coach, it's my job to get the best out of him, not to put a price tag on him," Terzic replied when asked what it would cost to keep Haaland.</p>

<p>"I have to get the best out of the team and want to advance to the next round."</p>


Borussia Dortmund are waiting on the fitness of Marco Reus and Mats Hummels for their Champions League quarter-final, home leg against Manchester City on Wednesday with England winger Jadon Sancho definitely ruled out.

Borussia Dortmund are waiting on the fitness of Marco Reus and Mats Hummels for their Champions League quarter-final, home leg against Manchester City on Wednesday with England winger Jadon Sancho definitely ruled out. Dortmund need to overturn last week's 2-1 first-leg defeat in Manchester when Reus equalised for the Germans before Phil Foden's 90th-minute winner for City. Reus limped out of Saturday's 3-2 win at Stuttgart, after the attacking midfielder scored for the second match in a row, while centre-back Hummels did not come out for the second half after feeling unwell. Dortmund coach Edin Terzic said a decision on the pair will be made after seeing how they react in training. Terzic confirmed the second leg has come too soon for Sancho who is working his way back to fitness from a leg injury. Dortmund defender Manuel Akanji stressed the importance of Reus to the German club's cause. "It would be a big loss, he is our captain and played very well recently, scoring two goals," Akanji said Tuesday. "He knows what it takes to make it through to the next round." Terzic said Dortmund need "a mix of courage and patience" against City, who are bidding to reach the semi-finals after exiting in the quarters in each of the last four seasons. Rumours persist that Dortmund could lose 20-year-old striker Erling Braut Haaland to a big-money offer this summer. Dortmund have made it clear they do not want to sell Haaland, who reportedly has a release clause in his contract for 75 million euros ($89 million) from 2022. "As a coach, it's my job to get the best out of him, not to put a price tag on him," Terzic replied when asked what it would cost to keep Haaland. "I have to get the best out of the team and want to advance to the next round."

Dortmund wait on Reus, Hummels with Sancho to miss City clash

<p class="MsoNormal">Sanju Samson just fell short to take his team Rajasthan Royals over the winning line in what was his captaincy debut in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 match against Punjab Kings at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Monday. In the high-scoring match, Rajasthan Royals lost by four runs while chasing a mammoth 222.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Punjab Kings, batting first, posted 221/6 in 20 overs, courtesy fine knocks by KL Rahul (91) and Deepak Hooda (64). However, Samson took the game close while smashing IPL 2021’s first century and his highest score in the T20 tournament. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">But when Rajasthan Royals needed five off the last two deliveries, Samson denied Chris Morris a single and failed to clear the boundary line. While some have criticised Samson for refusing strike to Morris, others, including the likes of Kumar Sangakkara and Brian Lara, have backed him.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-to-tour-england-with-larger-squad-after-postponement-of-a-tour-377312" hreflang="en">India to tour England with larger squad after postponement of A tour</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Former West Indies captain Lara, while weighing his opinion on the debate, said that the RR skipper took the right call while adding he would not single out Samson for denying a single to Morris.</p>

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<p>"I think it was the right decision. I think if anybody had to hit a boundary, it had to be Sanju Samson. If he had gone back for the 2nd run, there was an opportunity to get him run-out. I think he did the right thing. No doubts about it in my mind. Tremendous innings. I would not point fingers at him for not taking that single in the last over,” Lara told Star Sports.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Rajasthan Royals will next play Delhi Capitals at the Wankhede Stadium on April 15 (Thursday).<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>


Sanju Samson just fell short to take his team Rajasthan Royals over the winning line in what was his captaincy debut in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 match against Punjab Kings at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Monday.

Sanju Samson just fell short to take his team Rajasthan Royals over the winning line in what was his captaincy debut in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 match against Punjab Kings at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Monday. In the high-scoring match, Rajasthan Royals lost by four runs while chasing a mammoth 222. Punjab Kings, batting first, posted 221/6 in 20 overs, courtesy fine knocks by KL Rahul (91) and Deepak Hooda (64). However, Samson took the game close while smashing IPL 2021’s first century and his highest score in the T20 tournament. But when Rajasthan Royals needed five off the last two deliveries, Samson denied Chris Morris a single and failed to clear the boundary line. While some have criticised Samson for refusing strike to Morris, others, including the likes of Kumar Sangakkara and Brian Lara, have backed him. ALSO READ: India to tour England with larger squad after postponement of A tour Former West Indies captain Lara, while weighing his opinion on the debate, said that the RR skipper took the right call while adding he would not single out Samson for denying a single to Morris. × "I think it was the right decision. I think if anybody had to hit a boundary, it had to be Sanju Samson. If he had gone back for the 2nd run, there was an opportunity to get him run-out. I think he did the right thing. No doubts about it in my mind. Tremendous innings. I would not point fingers at him for not taking that single in the last over,” Lara told Star Sports. Rajasthan Royals will next play Delhi Capitals at the Wankhede Stadium on April 15 (Thursday).

Brian Lara gives his verdict on Sanju Samson's decision to refuse Morris a single vs PBKS

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