Pakistan's Fakhar Zaman has moved up seven places to No.12 in the ICC Men’s ODI Player Rankings for batsmen.

Pakistan’s Fakhar Zaman played an ODI knock for the ages against South Africa in Johannesburg last week Sunday, where he scored 193 runs in 155 balls before being run out in the last over: breaking the record for the highest score in an ODI innings when batting second. His performance catapulted him up to 7 places to the 12th in the ICC Men’s ODI Player Rankings for batsmen.&nbsp;

From the South African camp, Rassie van der Dussen’s innings of 123 not out and 60 in the first two ODIs against Pakistan helped him up to a career-best 22nd place. South African captain Temba Bavuma’s 92 in the second match against Pakistan also has helped him to a career-best 88th place with the bat.&nbsp;

In bowlers, South African Anrich Nortje started the series against Pakistan with figures of 4-51 and 3-63 to move to a career-best 73rd place with 427 points. His compatriot, Haris Rauf took five wickets in the first two ODIs to gain 71 places to 143rd with the ball.&nbsp;

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South Africa's <a href="https://twitter.com/KagisoRabada25?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KagisoRabada25</a> enters the top five in the latest <a href="https://twitter.com/MRFWorldwide?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MRFWorldwide</a> ICC Men's ODI Player Rankings for bowling. 
 
Full list: <a href="https://t.co/sipiRJgcGu">https://t.co/sipiRJgcGu</a> <a href="https://t.co/cMJgeoYFDS">pic.twitter.com/cMJgeoYFDS</a>
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In the T20I format of the game, Kiwi debutant Finn Allen smashed a 71 from 29 balls in the rain-affected third match against Bangladesh to move into the world’s top 100 of the ICC Men’s T20I Player Rankings for batsmen. His teammate, Tim Southee remains the top-ranked seamer in sixth place, up to a career-best 669 points after taking 3-15 in the final match against Bangladesh.&nbsp;

Gerhard Erasmus led Namibia to a 3-0 series victory over Uganda and his unbeaten 62 in the first match helped him up to 66th place, his country’s top-ranked batsman. His team-mate Craig Williams struck 81 in the final match which helped him gain 33 places to 147.

Riazat Ali Shah totalled 56 runs in the series, and is Uganda’s highest ranked batsman in 135th place, with a career-best 269 points. Bernard Scholtz remains Namibia’s highest-ranked bowler in 51st place, after taking four wickets in the series in the T20I format with the ball.&nbsp;

In the&nbsp;ICC Men’s Test Player Rankings, Kraigg Brathwaite was the major mover with the bat up 21 places to 43rd. &nbsp;He is at his highest points tally since August 2019. Oshada Fernando’s second innings unbeaten 66 helped him gain 11 places to 61. Jason Holder held on to top place in the all-rounder rankings owing to his innings of 30 and 71 not out plus 2-39 against Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

Pakistan's Fakhar Zaman has moved up seven places to No.12 in the ICC Men’s ODI Player Rankings for batsmen. Pakistan’s Fakhar Zaman played an ODI knock for the ages against South Africa in Johannesburg last week Sunday, where he scored 193 runs in 155 balls before being run out in the last over: breaking the record for the highest score in an ODI innings when batting second.

Pakistan's Fakhar Zaman has moved up seven places to No.12 in the ICC Men’s ODI Player Rankings for batsmen. Pakistan’s Fakhar Zaman played an ODI knock for the ages against South Africa in Johannesburg last week Sunday, where he scored 193 runs in 155 balls before being run out in the last over: breaking the record for the highest score in an ODI innings when batting second. His performance catapulted him up to 7 places to the 12th in the ICC Men’s ODI Player Rankings for batsmen. From the South African camp, Rassie van der Dussen’s innings of 123 not out and 60 in the first two ODIs against Pakistan helped him up to a career-best 22nd place. South African captain Temba Bavuma’s 92 in the second match against Pakistan also has helped him to a career-best 88th place with the bat. In bowlers, South African Anrich Nortje started the series against Pakistan with figures of 4-51 and 3-63 to move to a career-best 73rd place with 427 points. His compatriot, Haris Rauf took five wickets in the first two ODIs to gain 71 places to 143rd with the ball. South Africa's @KagisoRabada25 enters the top five in the latest @MRFWorldwide ICC Men's ODI Player Rankings for bowling. Full list: https://t.co/sipiRJgcGu pic.twitter.com/cMJgeoYFDS — ICC (@ICC) April 7, 2021 × In the T20I format of the game, Kiwi debutant Finn Allen smashed a 71 from 29 balls in the rain-affected third match against Bangladesh to move into the world’s top 100 of the ICC Men’s T20I Player Rankings for batsmen. His teammate, Tim Southee remains the top-ranked seamer in sixth place, up to a career-best 669 points after taking 3-15 in the final match against Bangladesh. Gerhard Erasmus led Namibia to a 3-0 series victory over Uganda and his unbeaten 62 in the first match helped him up to 66th place, his country’s top-ranked batsman. His team-mate Craig Williams struck 81 in the final match which helped him gain 33 places to 147. Riazat Ali Shah totalled 56 runs in the series, and is Uganda’s highest ranked batsman in 135th place, with a career-best 269 points. Bernard Scholtz remains Namibia’s highest-ranked bowler in 51st place, after taking four wickets in the series in the T20I format with the ball. In the ICC Men’s Test Player Rankings, Kraigg Brathwaite was the major mover with the bat up 21 places to 43rd. He is at his highest points tally since August 2019. Oshada Fernando’s second innings unbeaten 66 helped him gain 11 places to 61. Jason Holder held on to top place in the all-rounder rankings owing to his innings of 30 and 71 not out plus 2-39 against Sri Lanka.

Fakhar Zaman's incredible knock helps him climb up the ICC ODI Player Rankings

FIFA on Wednesday banned the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) with immediate effect due to “undue third-party interference”. Until the suspension is lifted, Pakistan’s national and club teams would not be eligible to take part in international competitions, the world governing body announced on Wednesday.

The election of Faisal Saleh Hayat as the federation’s president in 2015 and following allegations of vote-rigging led to a halt in the sport in Pakistan.

To resolve the matter, a high court-appointed administrator took charge of the Pakistan Football Federation but that was in violation of FIFA statutes regarding political interference.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/foden-hands-man-city-late-advantage-against-dortmund-375838" hreflang="en">Foden hands Man City late advantage against Dortmund</a>

"The Bureau [of the Fifa Council] took this decision as a result of the fact that the PFF offices and its accounts remain in control of a court-appointed administrator, which constitutes a violation of the PFF obligations to manage its affairs independently and without influence from any third parties in accordance with the FIFA Statutes," Fifa said in a statement.

"The suspension will be lifted once the PFF offices and access to the PFF accounts are returned to the PFF."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/vinicius-double-puts-real-madrid-on-top-against-liverpool-375835" hreflang="en">Vinicius double puts Real Madrid on top against Liverpool</a>

Moreover, with the FIFA ban, none of the PFF”s members or officials can benefit from developmental grants or training courses from FIFA or Asian Football Confederation (AFC).

Pakistan’s men national team hasn’t played a match since 2015 with their FIFA rank being at an all-time low of 200. Notably, there is no professional league in the country.

Hayat is set to appeal the verdict in Lahore High Court next Tuesday in a bid to re-take charge of the PFF.

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FIFA on Wednesday banned the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) with immediate effect due to “undue third-party interference”. Until the suspension is lifted, Pakistan’s national and club teams would not be eligible to take part in international competitions, the world governing body announced on Wednesday.

FIFA on Wednesday banned the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) with immediate effect due to “undue third-party interference”. Until the suspension is lifted, Pakistan’s national and club teams would not be eligible to take part in international competitions, the world governing body announced on Wednesday. The election of Faisal Saleh Hayat as the federation’s president in 2015 and following allegations of vote-rigging led to a halt in the sport in Pakistan. To resolve the matter, a high court-appointed administrator took charge of the Pakistan Football Federation but that was in violation of FIFA statutes regarding political interference. ALSO READ: Foden hands Man City late advantage against Dortmund "The Bureau [of the Fifa Council] took this decision as a result of the fact that the PFF offices and its accounts remain in control of a court-appointed administrator, which constitutes a violation of the PFF obligations to manage its affairs independently and without influence from any third parties in accordance with the FIFA Statutes," Fifa said in a statement. "The suspension will be lifted once the PFF offices and access to the PFF accounts are returned to the PFF." ALSO READ: Vinicius double puts Real Madrid on top against Liverpool Moreover, with the FIFA ban, none of the PFF”s members or officials can benefit from developmental grants or training courses from FIFA or Asian Football Confederation (AFC). Pakistan’s men national team hasn’t played a match since 2015 with their FIFA rank being at an all-time low of 200. Notably, there is no professional league in the country. Hayat is set to appeal the verdict in Lahore High Court next Tuesday in a bid to re-take charge of the PFF.

FIFA bans Pakistan Football Federation with immediate effect over 'third-party interference'

Tiger Woods is in "decent spirits" at home recovering from serious leg injuries in a February car crash but his absence from the Masters is keenly felt by friendly rivals.

Four-time major winner Rory McIlroy and second-ranked Justin Thomas, both expected to contend starting Thursday at Augusta National, visted Woods at his South Florida home since he went there from the hospital last month.

"I went over and saw him a couple times last week," Thomas said Tuesday. "Try to go over a couple times during the week whenever I'm home and see him.

"We texted Friday morning, and he said it's kind of starting to set in. He's bummed he's not here playing practice rounds with us, and we hate it, too."

Woods, a 15-time major winner and five-time Masters champion, would have been at Tuesday's Masters Champions Dinner -- hosted by top-ranked defending champion Dustin Johnson -- if he were not at home recovering.

"I'll miss running up @DJohnsonPGA's bill at the Champions Dinner tonight," Woods tweeted Tuesday evening. "It's still one of my favorite nights of the year."

Woods, 45, suffered a shattered lower right leg and ankle in the one-car crash near Los Angeles. He underwent hours of surgery to repair the damage, a rod inserted into his tibia with screws and pins used to stabilize the joint.

McIlroy, who talks of Woods making a comeback to play again, visited last month and saw Woods in much better condition than he expected after seeing photos of the car wreckage.

"It was good to see him in decent spirits," McIlroy said. "When you hear of these things and you look at the car and you see the crash, it's like, you think he's going to be in a hospital bed for six months. But he was actually doing better than that.

"I know he'd love to be here and I'm sure he's going to put everything he has into trying to be ready to play here next year."

McIlroy said PGA players who live nearby such as Brooks Koepka, Dustin Johnson and Thomas "all have a responsibility to try to keep his spirits up and keep him going and try to get him back out here."

Woods, whose 82 US PGA titles are level with Sam Snead for the all-time win record, won the 2019 Masters for his first major title in 11 years to complete an astonishing comeback after multiple back surgeries.

Returning from a shattered right leg might be an even more astounding feat.

"Hopefully, if his recovery goes well, who knows, he could be back in 12 months' time," McIlroy said.

"He's always missed when he doesn't play in these big events and that doesn't change this week, whether it's to do with his back or his leg or whatever it is.

"I know he's at home and he's fully focused on the recovery process, and I feel like he's mentally strong enough to get through that.

"And once he does, broken bones heal, and he's just got to take it step by step."

<h2>- 'He has been good' -</h2>

McIlroy was stunned to learn that Woods has no clue where many of his trophies are for non-major triumphs.

"I was driving home thinking how easy that must have felt for him to win all the others," McIlroy said. "That's all I could think about on the way home. And I was glad he was OK too."

Thomas watched basketball with Woods.

"He has been good. It has been good just to go hang out with him," Thomas said. "We're fortunate with the basketball to just hang out and watch sports like we would any normal time."

Thomas would have been a practice partner for Woods this week along with Fred Couples. Now he hopes to do what he can to help when he's home.

"Dude, I'll do anything you want," Thomas said. "If you need me to help out with your kids, I can do that. &nbsp;I'm here for you and I'll help out however I can."

Tiger Woods is in "decent spirits" at home recovering from serious leg injuries in a February car crash but his absence from the Masters is keenly felt by friendly rivals.

Tiger Woods is in "decent spirits" at home recovering from serious leg injuries in a February car crash but his absence from the Masters is keenly felt by friendly rivals. Four-time major winner Rory McIlroy and second-ranked Justin Thomas, both expected to contend starting Thursday at Augusta National, visted Woods at his South Florida home since he went there from the hospital last month. "I went over and saw him a couple times last week," Thomas said Tuesday. "Try to go over a couple times during the week whenever I'm home and see him. "We texted Friday morning, and he said it's kind of starting to set in. He's bummed he's not here playing practice rounds with us, and we hate it, too." Woods, a 15-time major winner and five-time Masters champion, would have been at Tuesday's Masters Champions Dinner -- hosted by top-ranked defending champion Dustin Johnson -- if he were not at home recovering. "I'll miss running up @DJohnsonPGA's bill at the Champions Dinner tonight," Woods tweeted Tuesday evening. "It's still one of my favorite nights of the year." Woods, 45, suffered a shattered lower right leg and ankle in the one-car crash near Los Angeles. He underwent hours of surgery to repair the damage, a rod inserted into his tibia with screws and pins used to stabilize the joint. McIlroy, who talks of Woods making a comeback to play again, visited last month and saw Woods in much better condition than he expected after seeing photos of the car wreckage. "It was good to see him in decent spirits," McIlroy said. "When you hear of these things and you look at the car and you see the crash, it's like, you think he's going to be in a hospital bed for six months. But he was actually doing better than that. "I know he'd love to be here and I'm sure he's going to put everything he has into trying to be ready to play here next year." McIlroy said PGA players who live nearby such as Brooks Koepka, Dustin Johnson and Thomas "all have a responsibility to try to keep his spirits up and keep him going and try to get him back out here." Woods, whose 82 US PGA titles are level with Sam Snead for the all-time win record, won the 2019 Masters for his first major title in 11 years to complete an astonishing comeback after multiple back surgeries. Returning from a shattered right leg might be an even more astounding feat. "Hopefully, if his recovery goes well, who knows, he could be back in 12 months' time," McIlroy said. "He's always missed when he doesn't play in these big events and that doesn't change this week, whether it's to do with his back or his leg or whatever it is. "I know he's at home and he's fully focused on the recovery process, and I feel like he's mentally strong enough to get through that. "And once he does, broken bones heal, and he's just got to take it step by step." - 'He has been good' - McIlroy was stunned to learn that Woods has no clue where many of his trophies are for non-major triumphs. "I was driving home thinking how easy that must have felt for him to win all the others," McIlroy said. "That's all I could think about on the way home. And I was glad he was OK too." Thomas watched basketball with Woods. "He has been good. It has been good just to go hang out with him," Thomas said. "We're fortunate with the basketball to just hang out and watch sports like we would any normal time." Thomas would have been a practice partner for Woods this week along with Fred Couples. Now he hopes to do what he can to help when he's home. "Dude, I'll do anything you want," Thomas said. "If you need me to help out with your kids, I can do that. I'm here for you and I'll help out however I can."

Injured Tiger Woods doing well but keenly missed at Masters

The president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Sourav Ganguly has said triggered a controversy by saying England, Australia and West Indies players “give up” on mental health while adding Indian players are better at handling it.&nbsp;

The former Indian captain’s comments created a social media storm as he said that Indians are more tolerant than overseas players while citing Australia’s refusal to tour South Africa. Many players have highlighted the importance of mental well-being including Indian captain Virat Kohli, who said players were “cooked” in bio-secure bubbles.&nbsp;

Kohli said last month that players were being "cooked" in bio-secure bubbles while England's policy of rotating and resting tour squad members has been criticised by pundits but defended by players.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/anil-kumble-to-wion-selection-headache-a-good-thing-for-punjab-kings-375722" hreflang="en">Anil Kumble to WION: Selection headache a good thing for Punjab Kings</a>

Ganguly’s comments come just before the start of the Indian Premier League which will see players spending eight weeks in a bio-secure environment.&nbsp;

"I feel we Indians are a bit more tolerant than overseas (cricketers)", Ganguly told a promotional event late Tuesday, while acknowledging the pressures all players endure.

"I've played with a lot of Englishmen, Australians, West Indians, they just give up on mental health," he added.&nbsp;

"In the last six to seven months, with so much cricket going on in the bio-bubble, it's so tough.

"Just going from the hotel room to the ground... it's an absolutely different life."

While talking about the postponement of Australia’s tour of South Africa in March, Ganguly said that while there is a COVID-19 scare, people have to train themselves mentally to overcome the challenges.&nbsp;

"Look at the Australian team, they were supposed to go to South Africa for a Test series after India played there. They refused to go there."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-2-key-foreign-players-to-miss-delhi-capitals-opening-match-vs-chennai-super-kings-375665" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: 2 key foreign players to miss Delhi Capitals' opening match vs Chennai Super Kings</a>

He added: "And always there's this scare of COVID. 'Hope it's not me the next time'. You have to stay positive, you have to train yourself mentally. All of us have to train ourselves mentally so that only good will happen. It boils down to training."&nbsp;

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<h2>Here's how netizens reacted to Sourav Ganguly's comments on mental health:</h2>

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Sourav Ganguly needs to be spoken to for his comment on mental health. Has he not read about the suicides? It’s irresponsible coming from a board that needs to lead by example, especially when cricketers are now constantly battling mental fatigue in between several bio bubbles.
— Arjun (@ArjunNamboo) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArjunNamboo/status/1379695025525649410?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/SGanguly99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SGanguly99</a> - please read before you make any more comments anywhere about mental health. <a href="https://t.co/xrA1LKDmFk">https://t.co/xrA1LKDmFk</a>
— Srinivas R (@srini_r_twit) <a href="https://twitter.com/srini_r_twit/status/1379605723940724742?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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🚨 Long thread 🚨 
 
Recently in an interaction, Ganguly Sir talked a bit about Mental Health and bio bubbles. While we are aware of what he said, here is a thread of thoughts on the impact of what he said according to my understanding.
— Urvi Shah (@unikurvi) <a href="https://twitter.com/unikurvi/status/1379481814226542595?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Pretty poor from Sourav Ganguly, pretty much the epitome of a countryman from a very divided nation though that he can take such an abject view of mental health. "Tolerance" plays no part and I would remind him several Indian players were reprimanded on the Aus tour for bubble
— Thomas Roper (@tomroper87) <a href="https://twitter.com/tomroper87/status/1379507422436466690?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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Quite a comment from Sourav Ganguly: “I feel we Indians are a bit more tolerant than overseas (cricketers). I’ve played with a lot of Englishmen, Australians, West Indians. They just give up on mental health.”
— Lawrence Booth (@the_topspin) <a href="https://twitter.com/the_topspin/status/1379502149852336128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The IPL, to be held in six cities without spectators, will take place against the backdrop of a new surge in cases in India from April 9.

The president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Sourav Ganguly has said triggered a controversy by saying England, Australia and West Indies players “give up” on mental health while adding Indian players are better at handling it.

The president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Sourav Ganguly has said triggered a controversy by saying England, Australia and West Indies players “give up” on mental health while adding Indian players are better at handling it. The former Indian captain’s comments created a social media storm as he said that Indians are more tolerant than overseas players while citing Australia’s refusal to tour South Africa. Many players have highlighted the importance of mental well-being including Indian captain Virat Kohli, who said players were “cooked” in bio-secure bubbles. Kohli said last month that players were being "cooked" in bio-secure bubbles while England's policy of rotating and resting tour squad members has been criticised by pundits but defended by players. ALSO READ: Anil Kumble to WION: Selection headache a good thing for Punjab Kings Ganguly’s comments come just before the start of the Indian Premier League which will see players spending eight weeks in a bio-secure environment. "I feel we Indians are a bit more tolerant than overseas (cricketers)", Ganguly told a promotional event late Tuesday, while acknowledging the pressures all players endure. "I've played with a lot of Englishmen, Australians, West Indians, they just give up on mental health," he added. "In the last six to seven months, with so much cricket going on in the bio-bubble, it's so tough. "Just going from the hotel room to the ground... it's an absolutely different life." While talking about the postponement of Australia’s tour of South Africa in March, Ganguly said that while there is a COVID-19 scare, people have to train themselves mentally to overcome the challenges. "Look at the Australian team, they were supposed to go to South Africa for a Test series after India played there. They refused to go there." ALSO READ: IPL 2021: 2 key foreign players to miss Delhi Capitals' opening match vs Chennai Super Kings He added: "And always there's this scare of COVID. 'Hope it's not me the next time'. You have to stay positive, you have to train yourself mentally. All of us have to train ourselves mentally so that only good will happen. It boils down to training." × Here's how netizens reacted to Sourav Ganguly's comments on mental health: Sourav Ganguly needs to be spoken to for his comment on mental health. Has he not read about the suicides? It’s irresponsible coming from a board that needs to lead by example, especially when cricketers are now constantly battling mental fatigue in between several bio bubbles. — Arjun (@ArjunNamboo) April 7, 2021 × @SGanguly99 - please read before you make any more comments anywhere about mental health. https://t.co/xrA1LKDmFk — Srinivas R (@srini_r_twit) April 7, 2021 × 🚨 Long thread 🚨 Recently in an interaction, Ganguly Sir talked a bit about Mental Health and bio bubbles. While we are aware of what he said, here is a thread of thoughts on the impact of what he said according to my understanding. — Urvi Shah (@unikurvi) April 6, 2021 × Pretty poor from Sourav Ganguly, pretty much the epitome of a countryman from a very divided nation though that he can take such an abject view of mental health. "Tolerance" plays no part and I would remind him several Indian players were reprimanded on the Aus tour for bubble — Thomas Roper (@tomroper87) April 6, 2021 × Quite a comment from Sourav Ganguly: “I feel we Indians are a bit more tolerant than overseas (cricketers). I’ve played with a lot of Englishmen, Australians, West Indians. They just give up on mental health.” — Lawrence Booth (@the_topspin) April 6, 2021 × The IPL, to be held in six cities without spectators, will take place against the backdrop of a new surge in cases in India from April 9.

Overseas players 'give up on mental health,' Sourav Ganguly says Indians more tolerant in bubble life

Ousmane Dembele volleyed in a 90th-minute winner against Real Valladolid on Monday to fire Barcelona to within a point of Atletico Madrid ahead of next weekend's Clasico in La Liga.&nbsp;

Barca looked set for a damaging stalemate at Camp Nou after Atletico's defeat by Sevilla on Saturday but Valladolid had Oscar Plano harshly sent off with 12 minutes left and Dembele snatched a 1-0 victory.&nbsp;

His strike could prove a crucial moment in the Spanish title race, with Barca now breathing down Atletico's necks ahead of Saturday's meeting with Real Madrid, who are three points off the top.&nbsp;

If Ronald Koeman's men win at Valdebebas, they will claim first place for 24 hours at least, before a depleted and deflated Atletico play away at Real Betis on Sunday.&nbsp;

They will have to play better after being frustrated by a determined Valladolid side, with Lionel Messi delivering some firm words to his team-mates in the tunnel at half-time.&nbsp;

"We have to step it up a gear, we have to play with more rhythm," Messi said. "If not it's going to get complicated for us."&nbsp;

It might have been more complicated had Plano not been shown a red card in the 78th minute, his hack on Dembele from behind giving Barca a crucial advantage for the final stages.&nbsp;

"We struggled in the first half, to create scoring opportunities in attack, and also at the back, our pressing was not very good," said Koeman. "I saw a Barca that was a little slow, tired, we did not have control of the game.

"In the second half we have improved. We have shown that without playing well, we are capable of winning games."

Victory makes it six in a row for them in La Liga, another win - particularly after an unconvincing performance - enhancing the sense that momentum now lies with Atletico's rivals.

Defeat also compounded what Valladolid coach Sergio admitted on Sunday had already been a "sh**ty week" after five of his players tested positive for Covid-19, leaving him without 12 players, with six others injured and one more suspended.&nbsp;

To mark Messi breaking Xavi Hernandez's appearance record for the club, he was presented with a framed shirt before kick-off, which he accepted with his family on the pitch. Messi passed Xavi's previous record of 767 appearances last month, with this his 769th.&nbsp;

Valladolid were not just able to compete in the first half, they were probably the better side and could have led when Kenan Kodro's early header struck the bar.&nbsp;

Dembele broke through and dragged back for Messi, whose shot was blocked, while Pedri's long-range effort fizzed through and came back off the post.&nbsp;

But Barcelona were flat, their passing predictable and there was concern in Messi's voice when he told his team-mates to find a different gear in the second half.&nbsp;

Valladolid were almost undone by a Messi through ball for Dembele, who held his run but could not finish before the leaping Antoine Griezmann headed the rebound wide.&nbsp;

Barcelona looked more dangerous on the break than in possession and they were lucky to escape a penalty when Oscar Plano poked the ball onto the outstetched hand of Jordi Alba.&nbsp;

Koeman made three changes shortly after, Martin Braithwaite, Francisco Trincao and Ronald Araujo replacing Griezmann, Sergio Busquets and Oscar Mingueza.&nbsp;

But Barca's biggest boost came 12 minutes from the end, when Plano was sent off for chasing Dembele back and tripping the Frenchman from behind. A yellow card seemed the more obvious decision.

Trincao went close and the winner came in the last minute as Frenkie de Jong's cross was flicked to the back post by Ronald Aruajo. Dembele was free and lashed into the corner.&nbsp;

Ousmane Dembele volleyed in a 90th-minute winner against Real Valladolid on Monday to fire Barcelona to within a point of Atletico Madrid ahead of next weekend's Clasico in La Liga.

Ousmane Dembele volleyed in a 90th-minute winner against Real Valladolid on Monday to fire Barcelona to within a point of Atletico Madrid ahead of next weekend's Clasico in La Liga. Barca looked set for a damaging stalemate at Camp Nou after Atletico's defeat by Sevilla on Saturday but Valladolid had Oscar Plano harshly sent off with 12 minutes left and Dembele snatched a 1-0 victory. His strike could prove a crucial moment in the Spanish title race, with Barca now breathing down Atletico's necks ahead of Saturday's meeting with Real Madrid, who are three points off the top. If Ronald Koeman's men win at Valdebebas, they will claim first place for 24 hours at least, before a depleted and deflated Atletico play away at Real Betis on Sunday. They will have to play better after being frustrated by a determined Valladolid side, with Lionel Messi delivering some firm words to his team-mates in the tunnel at half-time. "We have to step it up a gear, we have to play with more rhythm," Messi said. "If not it's going to get complicated for us." It might have been more complicated had Plano not been shown a red card in the 78th minute, his hack on Dembele from behind giving Barca a crucial advantage for the final stages. "We struggled in the first half, to create scoring opportunities in attack, and also at the back, our pressing was not very good," said Koeman. "I saw a Barca that was a little slow, tired, we did not have control of the game. "In the second half we have improved. We have shown that without playing well, we are capable of winning games." Victory makes it six in a row for them in La Liga, another win - particularly after an unconvincing performance - enhancing the sense that momentum now lies with Atletico's rivals. Defeat also compounded what Valladolid coach Sergio admitted on Sunday had already been a "sh**ty week" after five of his players tested positive for Covid-19, leaving him without 12 players, with six others injured and one more suspended. To mark Messi breaking Xavi Hernandez's appearance record for the club, he was presented with a framed shirt before kick-off, which he accepted with his family on the pitch. Messi passed Xavi's previous record of 767 appearances last month, with this his 769th. Valladolid were not just able to compete in the first half, they were probably the better side and could have led when Kenan Kodro's early header struck the bar. Dembele broke through and dragged back for Messi, whose shot was blocked, while Pedri's long-range effort fizzed through and came back off the post. But Barcelona were flat, their passing predictable and there was concern in Messi's voice when he told his team-mates to find a different gear in the second half. Valladolid were almost undone by a Messi through ball for Dembele, who held his run but could not finish before the leaping Antoine Griezmann headed the rebound wide. Barcelona looked more dangerous on the break than in possession and they were lucky to escape a penalty when Oscar Plano poked the ball onto the outstetched hand of Jordi Alba. Koeman made three changes shortly after, Martin Braithwaite, Francisco Trincao and Ronald Araujo replacing Griezmann, Sergio Busquets and Oscar Mingueza. But Barca's biggest boost came 12 minutes from the end, when Plano was sent off for chasing Dembele back and tripping the Frenchman from behind. A yellow card seemed the more obvious decision. Trincao went close and the winner came in the last minute as Frenkie de Jong's cross was flicked to the back post by Ronald Aruajo. Dembele was free and lashed into the corner.

Barca edge closer to Atletico after late Dembele winner against Valladolid

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said he is not seeking revenge on Real Madrid for defeat in the 2018 Champions League final despite his anger at Sergio Ramos for the challenge which ended Mohamed Salah's match that night in Kiev.

Salah, who scored 44 goals in a remarkable debut campaign with Liverpool in 2017/18, suffered a dislocated shoulder after being hauled to the ground by Ramos midway through the first-half.

Madrid went onto win a third consecutive European Cup thanks to two errors from Liverpool goalkeeper Loris Karius and a wonderful overhead kick from Gareth Bale.

The sides meet for the first time since that clash on Tuesday for the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final in the Spanish capital.

"I said at the time, if you asked me in a press conference a week or month later, if I would invite Sergio Ramos to my 60th birthday? I would have said no," said Klopp.

"I said I didn't like what happened that night. It was for us a strange night, but it was long ago.

"We cannot get that feeling back or that anger or whatever so I don't even try. What I try is to prepare my team for tomorrow to show we are a good football team."

Liverpool bounced back in style to win the Champions League in 2019 before ending a 30-year wait to be crowned English champions last season.

But the Reds have struggled to match those standards this season in an injury-ravaged campaign.

Klopp's men face a battle just to qualify for next season's Champions League via a top-four finish in the Premier League.

"It was a different time, we were in a different place. Since then a lot of things happened. We feel good in our situation but we know we face a difficult opponent," added Klopp on how both sides have evolved over the past three years.

"I heard from the outside, already everybody says Real Madrid is the favourite. Great, they are used to the role and we have no problem being the challenger."

Real's victory in Kiev was the final match of Zinedine Zidane's first spell in charge of the Spanish giants.

The Frenchman returned for his second stint in 2019, but despite winning La Liga in his first full season back in charge last year, finds himself under pressure once more with Madrid involved in a tight three-way battle for the Spanish title with rivals Barcelona and Atletico Madrid.

Klopp was asked if he would ever fancy swapping Merseyside for Madrid, but said he is more interested in the Mallorcan sun if he ever moved to Spain.

"When we came out the plane today I already regret that we don't live here because the weather is so much better here," he said.&nbsp;

"My Spanish is really bad. You would not enjoy having me in Spain and I speak always this broken Spanish. All the clubs here have great managers. Real Mallorca would be nice, to live at least."

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said he is not seeking revenge on Real Madrid for defeat in the 2018 Champions League final despite his anger at Sergio Ramos for the challenge which ended Mohamed Salah's match that night in Kiev.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said he is not seeking revenge on Real Madrid for defeat in the 2018 Champions League final despite his anger at Sergio Ramos for the challenge which ended Mohamed Salah's match that night in Kiev. Salah, who scored 44 goals in a remarkable debut campaign with Liverpool in 2017/18, suffered a dislocated shoulder after being hauled to the ground by Ramos midway through the first-half. Madrid went onto win a third consecutive European Cup thanks to two errors from Liverpool goalkeeper Loris Karius and a wonderful overhead kick from Gareth Bale. The sides meet for the first time since that clash on Tuesday for the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final in the Spanish capital. "I said at the time, if you asked me in a press conference a week or month later, if I would invite Sergio Ramos to my 60th birthday? I would have said no," said Klopp. "I said I didn't like what happened that night. It was for us a strange night, but it was long ago. "We cannot get that feeling back or that anger or whatever so I don't even try. What I try is to prepare my team for tomorrow to show we are a good football team." Liverpool bounced back in style to win the Champions League in 2019 before ending a 30-year wait to be crowned English champions last season. But the Reds have struggled to match those standards this season in an injury-ravaged campaign. Klopp's men face a battle just to qualify for next season's Champions League via a top-four finish in the Premier League. "It was a different time, we were in a different place. Since then a lot of things happened. We feel good in our situation but we know we face a difficult opponent," added Klopp on how both sides have evolved over the past three years. "I heard from the outside, already everybody says Real Madrid is the favourite. Great, they are used to the role and we have no problem being the challenger." Real's victory in Kiev was the final match of Zinedine Zidane's first spell in charge of the Spanish giants. The Frenchman returned for his second stint in 2019, but despite winning La Liga in his first full season back in charge last year, finds himself under pressure once more with Madrid involved in a tight three-way battle for the Spanish title with rivals Barcelona and Atletico Madrid. Klopp was asked if he would ever fancy swapping Merseyside for Madrid, but said he is more interested in the Mallorcan sun if he ever moved to Spain. "When we came out the plane today I already regret that we don't live here because the weather is so much better here," he said. "My Spanish is really bad. You would not enjoy having me in Spain and I speak always this broken Spanish. All the clubs here have great managers. Real Mallorca would be nice, to live at least."

Klopp not on Real Madrid revenge mission

Jesse Lingard inspired West Ham to a thrilling 3-2 win at Wolves to move fourth in the Premier League on Monday, as Everton's hopes of a top-four finish were dented in a 1-1 draw against Crystal Palace.

Lingard's stunning form since joining the Hammers on loan from Manchester United in January saw him earn a recall by England manager Gareth Southgate last month.

The midfielder further bolstered his case for inclusion in Southgate's squad for Euro 2020 as he ran from inside his own half to slot home his sixth goal in eight West Ham appearances after just six minutes.

Lingard then turned creator for his side's other two goals as the visitors surged into a 3-0 lead inside 38 minutes.

His cute flick when penned in at the corner flag teed up Arthur Masuaku to cross for Pablo Fornals to double the Hammers' lead.

Lingard then surged beyond four weak Wolves challenges to free Jarrod Bowen, who fired in at Rui Patricio's near post.

"He's playing terrifically well," said West Ham boss David Moyes. "Tonight he looked like a real top player."

West Ham move a point ahead of Chelsea in a tight battle for a place in the Champions League next season.

Tottenham and Liverpool are just three points behind Moyes's men with eight games to play.

"We have to take it on. I'm hearing people talking about West Ham with a chance of playing in the Champions League," added Moyes.

"Nobody would have envisaged that last season. All those big teams up there going for fourth, we are going to try to compete with them all the way to the end."

West Ham let a three-goal lead slip in their last outing as Arsenal battled back to draw 3-3 at the London Stadium two weeks ago and they nearly made the same mistake.

Leander Dendoncker kickstarted the Wolves fightback with a towering header from Adama Traore's cross just before half-time.

Substitute Fabio Silva then found the far corner 22 minutes from time to set up a grandstand finish.

This time the Hammers held out, but their top-four challenge could be impacted by a couple of significant injuries.

Declan Rice missed his first Premier League game of the season with a knee injury that is expected to keep the England midfielder out for a month and Michail Antonio limped off in the first-half with a hamstring problem.

<h2>- Profligate Everton punished -</h2>

Everton missed the chance to also move within three points of four, with a game in hand to come, as Michy Batshuayi's 86th minute equaliser salvaged a point for the Eagles at Goodison Park.

The Toffees were made to rue a string of missed chances either side of James Rodriguez's opener.

“The reason was we were not able to kill the game when we had the opportunity,” said Everton boss Carlo Ancelotti.

"When you deserve to win, you have to win. We have to be more focused to avoid these kinds of situations.”

Rodriguez broke the deadlock 11 minutes into the second-half when he fired home Seamus Coleman's cut-back for his 100th goal in European football.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Richarlison were denied by Vicente Guaita with the chance to seal the points.

And that proved costly as Everton ultimately dropped points for the seventh time in eight home games.

Batshuayi had only been on the pitch two minutes when he latched onto Jeffrey Schlupp's through ball to fire low beyond Robin Olsen.

Palace remain in 12th, but look safe for another season in the top flight as they edge 11 points clear of the relegation zone.

Jesse Lingard inspired West Ham to a thrilling 3-2 win at Wolves to move fourth in the Premier League on Monday, as Everton's hopes of a top-four finish were dented in a 1-1 draw against Crystal Palace.

Jesse Lingard inspired West Ham to a thrilling 3-2 win at Wolves to move fourth in the Premier League on Monday, as Everton's hopes of a top-four finish were dented in a 1-1 draw against Crystal Palace. Lingard's stunning form since joining the Hammers on loan from Manchester United in January saw him earn a recall by England manager Gareth Southgate last month. The midfielder further bolstered his case for inclusion in Southgate's squad for Euro 2020 as he ran from inside his own half to slot home his sixth goal in eight West Ham appearances after just six minutes. Lingard then turned creator for his side's other two goals as the visitors surged into a 3-0 lead inside 38 minutes. His cute flick when penned in at the corner flag teed up Arthur Masuaku to cross for Pablo Fornals to double the Hammers' lead. Lingard then surged beyond four weak Wolves challenges to free Jarrod Bowen, who fired in at Rui Patricio's near post. "He's playing terrifically well," said West Ham boss David Moyes. "Tonight he looked like a real top player." West Ham move a point ahead of Chelsea in a tight battle for a place in the Champions League next season. Tottenham and Liverpool are just three points behind Moyes's men with eight games to play. "We have to take it on. I'm hearing people talking about West Ham with a chance of playing in the Champions League," added Moyes. "Nobody would have envisaged that last season. All those big teams up there going for fourth, we are going to try to compete with them all the way to the end." West Ham let a three-goal lead slip in their last outing as Arsenal battled back to draw 3-3 at the London Stadium two weeks ago and they nearly made the same mistake. Leander Dendoncker kickstarted the Wolves fightback with a towering header from Adama Traore's cross just before half-time. Substitute Fabio Silva then found the far corner 22 minutes from time to set up a grandstand finish. This time the Hammers held out, but their top-four challenge could be impacted by a couple of significant injuries. Declan Rice missed his first Premier League game of the season with a knee injury that is expected to keep the England midfielder out for a month and Michail Antonio limped off in the first-half with a hamstring problem. - Profligate Everton punished - Everton missed the chance to also move within three points of four, with a game in hand to come, as Michy Batshuayi's 86th minute equaliser salvaged a point for the Eagles at Goodison Park. The Toffees were made to rue a string of missed chances either side of James Rodriguez's opener. “The reason was we were not able to kill the game when we had the opportunity,” said Everton boss Carlo Ancelotti. "When you deserve to win, you have to win. We have to be more focused to avoid these kinds of situations.” Rodriguez broke the deadlock 11 minutes into the second-half when he fired home Seamus Coleman's cut-back for his 100th goal in European football. Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Richarlison were denied by Vicente Guaita with the chance to seal the points. And that proved costly as Everton ultimately dropped points for the seventh time in eight home games. Batshuayi had only been on the pitch two minutes when he latched onto Jeffrey Schlupp's through ball to fire low beyond Robin Olsen. Palace remain in 12th, but look safe for another season in the top flight as they edge 11 points clear of the relegation zone.

Lingard lifts West Ham into fourth, Everton held by Palace

Paris Saint-Germain are seeking revenge for their defeat in last season's final when they renew acquaintances with Bayern Munich in the Champions League last eight this week, but the French giants appear to have gone backwards since then despite the arrival of Mauricio Pochettino as coach.

News of Robert Lewandowski's absence for the quarter-final first leg at the Allianz Arena on Wednesday has understandably been met with some delight in Paris, especially with Neymar recovering fitness following his latest lay-off.

Nevertheless, PSG did not need Neymar when they delivered their signature performance of the campaign so far to beat Barcelona 4-1 away in the last round.

Marco Verratti did play then, and the Italian playmaker's absence in Munich following a positive Covid-19 test could be a major problem for Pochettino.

The Argentine, a former PSG captain, was appointed by the Qatar-owned club in January with the difficult brief of doing better than his sacked predecessor, Thomas Tuchel.

Under Tuchel, the Parisians won every domestic trophy in France last season before reaching the Champions League final for the first time.

In some ways there is more pressure on PSG now than there was for that 1-0 loss to Bayern in Lisbon last August.

Getting to the final of Europe's elite club competition was a big step forwards, but going out in the quarter-finals now would be a major setback for PSG and Pochettino, especially as they are trailing in Ligue 1.

The former Tottenham Hotspur coach told AFP in an interview last month that he would need time to make his mark at the Parc des Princes and that he would be unable to make the changes he wants until the next pre-season.

The 49-year-old, who oversaw a 7-2 home defeat by Bayern in one of his last games with Spurs, sought to emphasise the point last weekend, telling Le Parisien: "You can judge me from next season."

In the meantime, he added: "If we win the Champions League, or the French Cup, or Ligue 1, our influence will have been minimal. As will be the case if we win nothing. It will mainly be down to the players."

Of the team that started last season's final, only captain Thiago Silva has departed, while Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting, who came off the bench, has since switched to the Bayern ranks.

Yet he was replaced by Moise Kean, and the Italian international is an upgrade having contributed 15 goals, including three in the Champions League.

Meanwhile, left-back Juan Bernat has missed almost the entire season due to injury, and PSG have problems in both full-back positions.

<h2>- 'Highs and lows' -</h2>

What Pochettino really needs is for Neymar to rediscover his best form and for Kylian Mbappe to deliver -- PSG's best performances under Pochettino have come with Mbappe starring, from his hat-trick in Barcelona to a double in a 4-2 win in Lyon.

However Mbappe has sometimes flattered to deceive and performances have regularly been disappointing, under Tuchel and Pochettino.

They have lost 10 times this season, including three defeats in their last six league games.

Saturday's 1-0 home loss to title rivals Lille -- in which Neymar was sent off -- left them three points behind the Ligue 1 leaders with seven matches remaining.

Never mind potentially missing out on winning the French title, PSG could miss out on Champions League qualification altogether by failing to finish in the top three in Ligue 1.

That would be embarrassing for a club of the standing of PSG, who lost 3-1 on their last visit to Bayern for a group-stage match under Unai Emery in 2017.

"We have had lots of highs and lows, so we need to be more consistent like in previous seasons," captain Marquinhos told Canal Plus after the Lille game.

"We can still achieve great things so we need to focus on the positives and look at what we can improve. The next game is one of our biggest of the season."

Paris Saint-Germain are seeking revenge for their defeat in last season's final when they renew acquaintances with Bayern Munich in the Champions League last eight this week, but the French giants appear to have gone backwards since then despite the arrival of Mauricio Pochettino as coach.

Paris Saint-Germain are seeking revenge for their defeat in last season's final when they renew acquaintances with Bayern Munich in the Champions League last eight this week, but the French giants appear to have gone backwards since then despite the arrival of Mauricio Pochettino as coach. News of Robert Lewandowski's absence for the quarter-final first leg at the Allianz Arena on Wednesday has understandably been met with some delight in Paris, especially with Neymar recovering fitness following his latest lay-off. Nevertheless, PSG did not need Neymar when they delivered their signature performance of the campaign so far to beat Barcelona 4-1 away in the last round. Marco Verratti did play then, and the Italian playmaker's absence in Munich following a positive Covid-19 test could be a major problem for Pochettino. The Argentine, a former PSG captain, was appointed by the Qatar-owned club in January with the difficult brief of doing better than his sacked predecessor, Thomas Tuchel. Under Tuchel, the Parisians won every domestic trophy in France last season before reaching the Champions League final for the first time. In some ways there is more pressure on PSG now than there was for that 1-0 loss to Bayern in Lisbon last August. Getting to the final of Europe's elite club competition was a big step forwards, but going out in the quarter-finals now would be a major setback for PSG and Pochettino, especially as they are trailing in Ligue 1. The former Tottenham Hotspur coach told AFP in an interview last month that he would need time to make his mark at the Parc des Princes and that he would be unable to make the changes he wants until the next pre-season. The 49-year-old, who oversaw a 7-2 home defeat by Bayern in one of his last games with Spurs, sought to emphasise the point last weekend, telling Le Parisien: "You can judge me from next season." In the meantime, he added: "If we win the Champions League, or the French Cup, or Ligue 1, our influence will have been minimal. As will be the case if we win nothing. It will mainly be down to the players." Of the team that started last season's final, only captain Thiago Silva has departed, while Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting, who came off the bench, has since switched to the Bayern ranks. Yet he was replaced by Moise Kean, and the Italian international is an upgrade having contributed 15 goals, including three in the Champions League. Meanwhile, left-back Juan Bernat has missed almost the entire season due to injury, and PSG have problems in both full-back positions. - 'Highs and lows' - What Pochettino really needs is for Neymar to rediscover his best form and for Kylian Mbappe to deliver -- PSG's best performances under Pochettino have come with Mbappe starring, from his hat-trick in Barcelona to a double in a 4-2 win in Lyon. However Mbappe has sometimes flattered to deceive and performances have regularly been disappointing, under Tuchel and Pochettino. They have lost 10 times this season, including three defeats in their last six league games. Saturday's 1-0 home loss to title rivals Lille -- in which Neymar was sent off -- left them three points behind the Ligue 1 leaders with seven matches remaining. Never mind potentially missing out on winning the French title, PSG could miss out on Champions League qualification altogether by failing to finish in the top three in Ligue 1. That would be embarrassing for a club of the standing of PSG, who lost 3-1 on their last visit to Bayern for a group-stage match under Unai Emery in 2017. "We have had lots of highs and lows, so we need to be more consistent like in previous seasons," captain Marquinhos told Canal Plus after the Lille game. "We can still achieve great things so we need to focus on the positives and look at what we can improve. The next game is one of our biggest of the season."

Can PSG avenge Champions League final loss against Bayern?

North Korea will not attend this year's Tokyo Olympics because of the coronavirus pandemic, Pyongyang's sports ministry said, blowing the final whistle on Seoul's hopes of using the Games to restart talks with its nuclear-armed neighbour.

The isolated North's participation in the last Winter Games, hosted by the South in Pyeongchang, was a key catalyst in the diplomatic rapprochement of 2018.

Leader Kim Jong Un's sister Kim Yo Jong attended as his envoy in a blaze of publicity, and the South's President Moon Jae-in seized the opportunity to broker talks between Pyongyang and Washington that led to a series of high-profile meetings between Kim and then US president Donald Trump.

But Pyongyang's announcement puts an end to Seoul's hopes of using the postponed Tokyo Games, due to begin in July, to kick off a reset in the now deadlocked talks process.

North Korea's&nbsp;Olympic Committee "decided not to participate in the 32nd Olympic Games in order to protect players from the world public health crisis caused by Covid-19", said the Sports in the DPR Korea website, run by the sports ministry in Pyongyang.

But analysts said other factors may have been at play.

The announcement -- dated Monday -- reported a meeting of the national Olympic committee on March 25.

The North's official KCNA news agency had previously carried a dispatch on the committee meeting, without mentioning the Olympic decision.

Pyongyang is more isolated than ever after imposing a strict border closure more than a year ago in an effort to protect itself from the virus that first emerged in neighbouring China and went on to sweep the world.

The North insists it has had no coronavirus cases, although experts doubt the assertion, but the lockdown has exacerbated the economic pain from multiple international sanctions over its banned weapons programmes.&nbsp;

The new US administration of Joe Biden is in the final stages of a review of North Korea policy, with officials widely expected to support a resumption of lower-level talks rather than high-stakes, high-drama summits.

On the campaign trail Biden characterised Kim as a "thug" and has sharply criticised Trump's meetings, saying he legitimised one of the world's most ruthless leaders, but has also said he is open to diplomacy.

Biden has also warned North Korea of consequences for violations of UN Security Council resolutions after Pyongyang recently tested what US officials judged to be ballistic missiles.

<h2>- 'Shameless distortion' -</h2>

Inter-Korean relations are also at a standstill, with the North repeatedly saying it has no interest in talking to Seoul, and last year blowing up a liaison office on its side of the border.

Even so Moon in his Independence Day speech on March 1 said: "This year's Tokyo Olympics could be an opportunity for dialogues between South Korea and Japan, the North and the South, North Korea and Japan, and North Korea and the US."

The day commemorates mass protests that took place in 1919 across the Korean peninsula against Tokyo's colonial rule.

Seoul's unification ministry said it was "sorry that the Covid situation" had prevented the Games from serving as "an opportunity to advance peace on the Korean peninsula".

Japan's chief government spokesman&nbsp;Katsunobu Kato said it was monitoring the reports and authorities were seeking to improve the environment, "including infection countermeasures, so that many countries and regions can participate in the Tokyo Games".

Analysts said the virus may not be the only reason behind Pyongyang's decision.&nbsp;

"Pyongyang seems to be protesting against Japan's policies on North Korea, as sensitive issues such as human rights and sanctions have been raised by Tokyo, along with the US," Yang Moo-jin, a professor at the University of North Korean Studies in Seoul, told AFP.

The North regularly excoriates Olympic host nation Japan over its brutal 20th-century annexation, with KCNA carrying a report Sunday condemning new Japanese history textbooks as "persistent and shameless distortion of history".

Tokyo regularly demands resolution of the issue of Japanese citizens kidnapped by the North, although Pyongyang insists it has returned all those it seized who are still alive.

North Korea will not attend this year's Tokyo Olympics because of the coronavirus pandemic, Pyongyang's sports ministry said, blowing the final whistle on Seoul's hopes of using the Games to restart talks with its nuclear-armed neighbour.

North Korea will not attend this year's Tokyo Olympics because of the coronavirus pandemic, Pyongyang's sports ministry said, blowing the final whistle on Seoul's hopes of using the Games to restart talks with its nuclear-armed neighbour. The isolated North's participation in the last Winter Games, hosted by the South in Pyeongchang, was a key catalyst in the diplomatic rapprochement of 2018. Leader Kim Jong Un's sister Kim Yo Jong attended as his envoy in a blaze of publicity, and the South's President Moon Jae-in seized the opportunity to broker talks between Pyongyang and Washington that led to a series of high-profile meetings between Kim and then US president Donald Trump. But Pyongyang's announcement puts an end to Seoul's hopes of using the postponed Tokyo Games, due to begin in July, to kick off a reset in the now deadlocked talks process. North Korea's Olympic Committee "decided not to participate in the 32nd Olympic Games in order to protect players from the world public health crisis caused by Covid-19", said the Sports in the DPR Korea website, run by the sports ministry in Pyongyang. But analysts said other factors may have been at play. The announcement -- dated Monday -- reported a meeting of the national Olympic committee on March 25. The North's official KCNA news agency had previously carried a dispatch on the committee meeting, without mentioning the Olympic decision. Pyongyang is more isolated than ever after imposing a strict border closure more than a year ago in an effort to protect itself from the virus that first emerged in neighbouring China and went on to sweep the world. The North insists it has had no coronavirus cases, although experts doubt the assertion, but the lockdown has exacerbated the economic pain from multiple international sanctions over its banned weapons programmes. The new US administration of Joe Biden is in the final stages of a review of North Korea policy, with officials widely expected to support a resumption of lower-level talks rather than high-stakes, high-drama summits. On the campaign trail Biden characterised Kim as a "thug" and has sharply criticised Trump's meetings, saying he legitimised one of the world's most ruthless leaders, but has also said he is open to diplomacy. Biden has also warned North Korea of consequences for violations of UN Security Council resolutions after Pyongyang recently tested what US officials judged to be ballistic missiles. - 'Shameless distortion' - Inter-Korean relations are also at a standstill, with the North repeatedly saying it has no interest in talking to Seoul, and last year blowing up a liaison office on its side of the border. Even so Moon in his Independence Day speech on March 1 said: "This year's Tokyo Olympics could be an opportunity for dialogues between South Korea and Japan, the North and the South, North Korea and Japan, and North Korea and the US." The day commemorates mass protests that took place in 1919 across the Korean peninsula against Tokyo's colonial rule. Seoul's unification ministry said it was "sorry that the Covid situation" had prevented the Games from serving as "an opportunity to advance peace on the Korean peninsula". Japan's chief government spokesman Katsunobu Kato said it was monitoring the reports and authorities were seeking to improve the environment, "including infection countermeasures, so that many countries and regions can participate in the Tokyo Games". Analysts said the virus may not be the only reason behind Pyongyang's decision. "Pyongyang seems to be protesting against Japan's policies on North Korea, as sensitive issues such as human rights and sanctions have been raised by Tokyo, along with the US," Yang Moo-jin, a professor at the University of North Korean Studies in Seoul, told AFP. The North regularly excoriates Olympic host nation Japan over its brutal 20th-century annexation, with KCNA carrying a report Sunday condemning new Japanese history textbooks as "persistent and shameless distortion of history". Tokyo regularly demands resolution of the issue of Japanese citizens kidnapped by the North, although Pyongyang insists it has returned all those it seized who are still alive.

N. Korea says will not go to Olympics over Covid fears

A Tokyo Olympics water polo test event has been cancelled because sport officials cannot enter Japan due to coronavirus restrictions, reports said Tuesday.

The event is only the latest victim of virus restrictions, which have forced the cancellation or postponement of a series of Olympic qualifiers and tests.

The two-day water polo event was supposed to open on Saturday, but has been scrapped because of Japan's strict travel regulations, which bar virtually all foreign nationals from entering the country, local media reported.

The restrictions mean time-keepers and record-keepers who were due to travel to Japan cannot take part in the event, although Kyodo news agency said it may be rescheduled to a later date.

Tokyo Olympics organisers declined to comment.

Test events for the virus-delayed Games resumed last weekend for the first time since the pandemic began, with a wheelchair rugby event held at Tokyo's Yoyogi National Stadium.

But there are doubts over whether the remaining 17 test events can be held as scheduled.

Last week, the International Swimming Federation (FINA) said it was considering moving its Olympic qualifiers from Japan.

Those events include the Diving World Cup scheduled for this month and the Artistic Swimming qualifier scheduled for May.

FINA's competition calendar already lists both events, along with the May 29-30 Olympic marathon swim qualifier in Japan's Fukuoka, as cancelled.

The governing body reportedly told member nations last week that it had received "worrying" information about the organiser's proposed Covid-19 countermeasures.

On Monday, the Japan Triathlon Union also announced that a triathlon World Cup event due to be held in Osaka in May has been cancelled because of virus restrictions.

The competition was not an Olympic test event but helps decide which athletes will qualify for the Games, and was meant to feature 130 triathletes from 30 different countries.

A Tokyo Olympics water polo test event has been cancelled because sport officials cannot enter Japan due to coronavirus restrictions, reports said Tuesday. The event is only the latest victim of virus restrictions, which have forced the cancellation or postponement of a series of Olympic qualifiers and tests.

A Tokyo Olympics water polo test event has been cancelled because sport officials cannot enter Japan due to coronavirus restrictions, reports said Tuesday. The event is only the latest victim of virus restrictions, which have forced the cancellation or postponement of a series of Olympic qualifiers and tests. The two-day water polo event was supposed to open on Saturday, but has been scrapped because of Japan's strict travel regulations, which bar virtually all foreign nationals from entering the country, local media reported. The restrictions mean time-keepers and record-keepers who were due to travel to Japan cannot take part in the event, although Kyodo news agency said it may be rescheduled to a later date. Tokyo Olympics organisers declined to comment. Test events for the virus-delayed Games resumed last weekend for the first time since the pandemic began, with a wheelchair rugby event held at Tokyo's Yoyogi National Stadium. But there are doubts over whether the remaining 17 test events can be held as scheduled. Last week, the International Swimming Federation (FINA) said it was considering moving its Olympic qualifiers from Japan. Those events include the Diving World Cup scheduled for this month and the Artistic Swimming qualifier scheduled for May. FINA's competition calendar already lists both events, along with the May 29-30 Olympic marathon swim qualifier in Japan's Fukuoka, as cancelled. The governing body reportedly told member nations last week that it had received "worrying" information about the organiser's proposed Covid-19 countermeasures. On Monday, the Japan Triathlon Union also announced that a triathlon World Cup event due to be held in Osaka in May has been cancelled because of virus restrictions. The competition was not an Olympic test event but helps decide which athletes will qualify for the Games, and was meant to feature 130 triathletes from 30 different countries.

Tokyo Olympics test event cancelled over virus: reports

Delhi Capitals head coach Ricky Ponting was left surprised by how DC snapped up Steve Smith on the cheap for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. While Ponting hinted that Smith is not a definite starter in the DC playing XI, he said that the Australian batsman will have added motivation given he was released by Rajasthan Royals and mega-auction is approaching next season. &nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

Ponting revealed that Smith’s name wasn’t discussed during the auction strategy as they thought the Aussie would be too expensive for them. However, IPL 2021 auction left the former Aussie skipper surprised. <o:p></o:p>

"I'm not really sure how we got him so cheap," Ponting told cricket.com.au this week ahead of the 2021 tournament, which starts on Friday.<o:p></o:p>

"It was quite clear that a lot of other teams had more money than us going into the auction. A lot of other teams released more players, so they got a lot of their salary cap back.<o:p></o:p>

"So going into the auction, we hadn't really spoken a lot about Smithy. His name did come up in some of the strategy stuff, but … we just thought 'we're getting outbid', simple as that. So we hadn't put that much time into it.<o:p></o:p>

"I was on the phone at home actually watching the auction live and talking to our owners as it was all happening. And that one bid came from us, and it was one bid and bang! Sold to Delhi Capitals.<o:p></o:p>

"It was actually quite remarkable how it turned out because that sort of class doesn't come around all the time and that sort of experience doesn't come around all the time."<o:p></o:p>

While Smith will bring extensive experience along with him, he sees himself in a battle to start for DC in IPL 2021. With only four overseas players allowed, the likes of Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje and Marcus Stonis have done enough to find their names on the team sheet. Smith will have to battle the likes of Shimron Hetmyer, Sam Billings, Chris Woakes and Tom Curran for the fourth overseas squad in the playing XI.<o:p></o:p>

"I think the fact that he's been released from the franchise that he's been at for a long time will make him a bit hungry as well this year," he said.<o:p></o:p>

"So, if he gets an opportunity with us – I think it will be in the top three somewhere – if he gets an opportunity, I'm sure he'll have a great year for us.<o:p></o:p>

"I caught up with him (recently), he's very, very keen to go out there and perform well.<o:p></o:p>

"Obviously the other side of that is there's a big auction again next year, so if he happens to have a really good IPL this year, then I'm sure that that price is going to go up for the coming season.<o:p></o:p>

"(It's) great to have him as a part of our squad. As I said – even if he doesn't play, for instance, to have someone like that around with his sort of knowledge on the game and the T20 game, will be great for our group. I can't wait to work with him again.<o:p></o:p>

"When you get a chance to play in a competition like that, which is as strong as it is, it can't hurt you, that's for sure. You can take so much from it because you're playing against the best players in the world for eight weeks in a row."<o:p></o:p>

DC will start their IPL 2021 campaign against Chennai Super Kings at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on April 10.<o:p></o:p>

Delhi Capitals head coach Ricky Ponting was left surprised by how DC snapped up Steve Smith on the cheap for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. While Ponting hinted that Smith is not a definite starter in the DC playing XI, he said that the Australian batsman will have added motivation given he was released by Rajasthan Royals and mega-auction is approaching next season.

Delhi Capitals head coach Ricky Ponting was left surprised by how DC snapped up Steve Smith on the cheap for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. While Ponting hinted that Smith is not a definite starter in the DC playing XI, he said that the Australian batsman will have added motivation given he was released by Rajasthan Royals and mega-auction is approaching next season. Ponting revealed that Smith’s name wasn’t discussed during the auction strategy as they thought the Aussie would be too expensive for them. However, IPL 2021 auction left the former Aussie skipper surprised. "I'm not really sure how we got him so cheap," Ponting told cricket.com.au this week ahead of the 2021 tournament, which starts on Friday. "It was quite clear that a lot of other teams had more money than us going into the auction. A lot of other teams released more players, so they got a lot of their salary cap back. "So going into the auction, we hadn't really spoken a lot about Smithy. His name did come up in some of the strategy stuff, but … we just thought 'we're getting outbid', simple as that. So we hadn't put that much time into it. "I was on the phone at home actually watching the auction live and talking to our owners as it was all happening. And that one bid came from us, and it was one bid and bang! Sold to Delhi Capitals. "It was actually quite remarkable how it turned out because that sort of class doesn't come around all the time and that sort of experience doesn't come around all the time." While Smith will bring extensive experience along with him, he sees himself in a battle to start for DC in IPL 2021. With only four overseas players allowed, the likes of Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje and Marcus Stonis have done enough to find their names on the team sheet. Smith will have to battle the likes of Shimron Hetmyer, Sam Billings, Chris Woakes and Tom Curran for the fourth overseas squad in the playing XI. "I think the fact that he's been released from the franchise that he's been at for a long time will make him a bit hungry as well this year," he said. "So, if he gets an opportunity with us – I think it will be in the top three somewhere – if he gets an opportunity, I'm sure he'll have a great year for us. "I caught up with him (recently), he's very, very keen to go out there and perform well. "Obviously the other side of that is there's a big auction again next year, so if he happens to have a really good IPL this year, then I'm sure that that price is going to go up for the coming season. "(It's) great to have him as a part of our squad. As I said – even if he doesn't play, for instance, to have someone like that around with his sort of knowledge on the game and the T20 game, will be great for our group. I can't wait to work with him again. "When you get a chance to play in a competition like that, which is as strong as it is, it can't hurt you, that's for sure. You can take so much from it because you're playing against the best players in the world for eight weeks in a row." DC will start their IPL 2021 campaign against Chennai Super Kings at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on April 10.

Getting released by RR will make Steve Smith hungry for IPL 2021: Delhi Capitals' Ricky Ponting

Mumbai Indians scout and wicket-keeping consultant Kiran More on Tuesday tested positive for COVID-19. According to a statement by Mumbai Indians, the former India wicket-keeper is currently asymptomatic and has been isolated.

The franchise has followed all the health guidelines by the BCCI and the MI medical team will continue to monitor More's health.

"Mumbai Indians’ scout and wicket keeping consultant Mr. Kiran More has tested positive for Covid-19," Mumbai Indians said in a statement.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/residents-near-wankhede-stadium-appeal-maharashtra-cm-to-shift-ipl-2021-venue-375675" hreflang="en">Residents near Wankhede Stadium appeal Maharashtra CM to shift IPL 2021 venue</a>

"Mr. More is currently asymptomatic and has been isolated. Mumbai Indians and Kiran More have followed all the BCCI health guidelines. The MI medical team will continue to monitor Mr. More’s health and abide by the BCCI protocols. (2/3)

"We would like to remind our fans to be safe and follow COVID-19 appropriate behaviours in these difficult times," the five-time IPL winning franchise added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-2-key-foreign-players-to-miss-delhi-capitals-opening-match-vs-chennai-super-kings-375665" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: 2 key foreign players to miss Delhi Capitals' opening match vs Chennai Super Kings</a>

Earlier, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) batsman Devdutt Padikkal and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) batsman Nitish Rana had tested positive but their reports have since come negative. Even some of the groundstaff at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai have also tested positive.

Mumbai Indians are currently based in Chennai for their IPL 2021 matches.

Mumbai Indians scout and wicket-keeping consultant Kiran More on Tuesday tested positive for COVID-19. According to a statement by Mumbai Indians, the former India wicket-keeper is currently asymptomatic and has been isolated.

Mumbai Indians scout and wicket-keeping consultant Kiran More on Tuesday tested positive for COVID-19. According to a statement by Mumbai Indians, the former India wicket-keeper is currently asymptomatic and has been isolated. The franchise has followed all the health guidelines by the BCCI and the MI medical team will continue to monitor More's health. "Mumbai Indians’ scout and wicket keeping consultant Mr. Kiran More has tested positive for Covid-19," Mumbai Indians said in a statement. ALSO READ: Residents near Wankhede Stadium appeal Maharashtra CM to shift IPL 2021 venue "Mr. More is currently asymptomatic and has been isolated. Mumbai Indians and Kiran More have followed all the BCCI health guidelines. The MI medical team will continue to monitor Mr. More’s health and abide by the BCCI protocols. (2/3) "We would like to remind our fans to be safe and follow COVID-19 appropriate behaviours in these difficult times," the five-time IPL winning franchise added. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: 2 key foreign players to miss Delhi Capitals' opening match vs Chennai Super Kings Earlier, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) batsman Devdutt Padikkal and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) batsman Nitish Rana had tested positive but their reports have since come negative. Even some of the groundstaff at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai have also tested positive. Mumbai Indians are currently based in Chennai for their IPL 2021 matches.

IPL 2021: Mumbai Indians' Kiran More tests positive for COVID-19

The ICC on Tuesday celebrated the power of cricket on communities across the world this International Day of Sport for Development and Peace in announcing the regional winners of the ICC Development Awards 2020 in what has been an incredibly challenging year for the members.

Across four categories, 20 regional winners from 17 countries whose inspiring stories represent how cricket continued to be a driving force for change and a sport for all – even in an unprecedented year. From Peru to Malaysia, Namibia to Italy, Kuwait to Nepal, ICC Associate Members continued their work to grow the game: empowering individuals and reaching out to new communities through innovation, determination and with great passion. There are numerous incredible examples of how cricket assisted the COVID-19 relief effort in countries across the world.

The regional winners identified below will be put forward as the ICC Development Awards global nominees, with four winners to be announced via the ICC channels on 20 April.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/residents-near-wankhede-stadium-appeal-maharashtra-cm-to-shift-ipl-2021-venue-375675" hreflang="en">Residents near Wankhede Stadium appeal Maharashtra CM to shift IPL 2021 venue</a>

<h2>ICC Development Initiative of the Year</h2>

Namibia, Argentina, Nepal, Vanuatu and Italy are the regional winners in the Development Initiative of the Year category, showcasing how cricket is becoming accessible to more people than ever before. Watch the video here.

During lockdown, Cricket Namibia created professional development opportunities for its workforce, players, and coaches to foster excellence. Seven admin staff completed 27 academic courses, including in project management, marketing, risk management and leadership. Coach education programmes were also a high priority, with 281 coaches completing courses at various levels.

Cricket Argentina designed 17 free courses in Spanish to develop 257 more coaches, umpires and scorers in 2020. Coaches who were a part of the programme went on to establish three new clubs. The course material was made available to the rest of the region, and seven other Spanish-speaking countries benefitted from the initiative to help engage people in their local language.

With COVID-19 restrictions lifted and cricket returning to Nepal, around 2000 women and 1900 men featured in local tournaments in the country, providing the opportunity to engage new sponsors and broadcasters during the national events.

Vanuatu Cricket livestreamed the Women’s T20 Grand Finals for the first time ever amassing 350,000 views. The exposure led the national team to visit COVID-19 impacted development programmes to engage and attract more women to participate with the set-up of four brand new teams.

The CricketMania campaign delivered by Cricket Italy to promote the sport has become a game-changer for the sport in the country, bringing cricket to a much wider range of 11-18 year olds through schools, clubs and sport body networks than before. The recognition created by the campaign resulted in cricket being included in the National School Games list, enabling Cricket Italy to reach 8797 secondary schools and 8868 high schools.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-2-key-foreign-players-to-miss-delhi-capitals-opening-match-vs-chennai-super-kings-375665" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: 2 key foreign players to miss Delhi Capitals' opening match vs Chennai Super Kings</a>

<h2>100% Cricket Female Cricket Initiative of the Year</h2>

The 100% Cricket Female Cricket Initiative regional winners recognise five engaging programmes for girls and women, with an emphasis on inclusivity and empowerment. Watch the video here.

Cricket Brazil awarded 14 professional central contracts to the women’s national team, becoming the first Associate Member to fully contract the women’s team before the men’s, raising the status of the game in Brazil and benefitting 2000 girls who play regularly.

The Danish Cricket Federation identified that if they wanted to bring more young women into cricket, they had to speak to them in their language, and listen to what they wanted. They therefore partnered with young female micro-influencers on Instagram to connect with new audiences. The energy and passion they brought into the social media campaign was carried over into online digital coaching sessions for new recruits and revitalised the ecosystem where 50 women attended the first kick-off cricket session.

In Nigeria, the Girls Aspire initiative uses cricket as a tool for girls’ empowerment and socio-cultural change. Ijeoma Okigbo, a journalist, took what she had learnt from an ‘introduction to cricket’ course to a school in Gauraka, Niger State, and coached junior girls from underprivileged backgrounds. The 50 girls, who have gained confidence and respect, have become part of a cricket community.

Samoa International Cricket Association’s Healthy Nanas programme is an initiative delivered in partnership with the Australian Government as part of the Team Up project. It offers women and girls a platform to participate in sport and ensure a healthy lifestyle, while also serving as a safe space to network and discuss issues in their personal lives and community – be it domestic violence, finance or health.

In Malaysia, players were ambassadors for #GirlsForGoals and #Cricket4WomensAid, where they supported online fundraising for survivors of domestic abuse and spoke of how sports had transformed their lives. The Cricket Adiwira entry-level programme provided the opportunity for women and girls to play, setting themselves the target of 128 students playing in each of the 269 participating schools, with at least half of them female.

WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ipl-2021-fascinating-stats-from-tournament-history-375646" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Fascinating stats from tournament history</a>

<h2>Cricket 4 Good Social Impact Initiative of the Year</h2>

Bhutan, Uganda, Indonesia, Italy and Peru have been recognized for their outstanding work in using cricket as a vehicle for social change or development within communities from all corners of the world. Watch the video here.

In 15 of Bhutan’s cricket communities, players, coordinators, coaches, and office staff volunteered at hospitals, quarantine facilities and call centers preparing meals, delivering food and patrolling to ensure people followed protocols to assist with the COVID-19 response effort.

The Uganda Cricket Association helped those within their network most impacted by COVID-19 including 100 school teachers to provide them food and financial assistance whilst they were unable to work due to the ongoing lockdown.

Cricket Indonesia’s goal was to promote the healthy messages set out by the Government and ensure that cricket was positioned as a leader in Indonesian society. This was delivered through a webinar series, social media engagement, videos of how to play cricket at home and the distribution of free masks in the office’s local community.

Cricket Italy partnered with Treedom to help offset 11,000kg CO2 emissions produced by the Member’s operations by formally planting 200 trees in Cameroon.

Peru aimed to inspire movement and connection, whilst promoting the well-being of young people during lockdown. What began as a WhatsApp group for children aged 4-14 to exercise at home, expanded to Zoom classes and an online summer academy for older students, as well as a teacher training course.

<h2>ICC Digital Fan Engagement of the Year</h2>

Promotion of cricket activities in emerging nations and engaging fans is incredibly important to grow the sport and five worthy regional winners are being celebrated for their innovative work in 2020. Watch the video here.

Vanuatu Cricket, with a following of only 12,000 on their Facebook Page utilized their digital platforms to reach over 16 million people through livestreaming of the Vanuatu T10 Blast and The Women’s T20 Grand Final. The results of this initiative meant more people were able to engage with Associate cricket, capitalising on the opportunity presented by COVID-19’s impact on the availability of live sport.

The fun and engaging #TrainAtHome digital campaign focused on the best of the United States’ national team players and support staff bringing simple, effective cricket skills-based drills to the homes of fans to encourage them to keep active whilst staying safe during lockdown, resulting in 1.2 million Twitter impressions.

The Fairway Super Series aimed at providing competition for promising junior cricketers ahead of national squad selection, replicated a modern T20 franchise event with Jersey Cricket Board delivering an online draft and match highlights to help the promotion of the event. Highlights of the four-team event reached a wide audience and raised the visibility of the teams’ charitable partners.

Cricket Namibia delivered a two-month campaign in celebration of being crowned an ICC Development Award winner in 2019, consisting of social media posts and radio messages. It reached over 300,000 people, grew fan engagement for the men’s national team and Cricket Namibia‘s brand.

Finally, Kuwait engaged one of the Middle East’s top digital media companies via a sponsorship programme where Kuwait Cricket’s social media channels are professionally managed with a comprehensive engagement programme of daily posts and updates to help create heroes within the cricket community.

ICC General Manager – Development, William Glenwright said: “The ICC Development Awards are a recognition of the work that provides people and communities the opportunity to engage with our incredible sport, with 20 brilliant programmes in 2020 celebrated.

“During a year where so many lives and communities were impacted in different ways - and on the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace - it is inspiring to share, the stories of the regional winners that helped people to feel connected with and participate in physical activity during a time where traditional cricket activity was so heavily restricted.

“We are extremely proud of what the Members achieved in 2020.Their innovative approach to delivering cricket and their unrelenting commitment to growing a sport for all, focusing on inspiring more women and girls in particular to get involved at all levels is something they should all be proud of. I look forward to seeing which four entries will be crowned global winners on 20 April.”

The ICC on Tuesday celebrated the power of cricket on communities across the world this International Day of Sport for Development and Peace in announcing the regional winners of the ICC Development Awards 2020 in what has been an incredibly challenging year for the members.

The ICC on Tuesday celebrated the power of cricket on communities across the world this International Day of Sport for Development and Peace in announcing the regional winners of the ICC Development Awards 2020 in what has been an incredibly challenging year for the members. Across four categories, 20 regional winners from 17 countries whose inspiring stories represent how cricket continued to be a driving force for change and a sport for all – even in an unprecedented year. From Peru to Malaysia, Namibia to Italy, Kuwait to Nepal, ICC Associate Members continued their work to grow the game: empowering individuals and reaching out to new communities through innovation, determination and with great passion. There are numerous incredible examples of how cricket assisted the COVID-19 relief effort in countries across the world. The regional winners identified below will be put forward as the ICC Development Awards global nominees, with four winners to be announced via the ICC channels on 20 April. ALSO READ: Residents near Wankhede Stadium appeal Maharashtra CM to shift IPL 2021 venue ICC Development Initiative of the Year Namibia, Argentina, Nepal, Vanuatu and Italy are the regional winners in the Development Initiative of the Year category, showcasing how cricket is becoming accessible to more people than ever before. Watch the video here. During lockdown, Cricket Namibia created professional development opportunities for its workforce, players, and coaches to foster excellence. Seven admin staff completed 27 academic courses, including in project management, marketing, risk management and leadership. Coach education programmes were also a high priority, with 281 coaches completing courses at various levels. Cricket Argentina designed 17 free courses in Spanish to develop 257 more coaches, umpires and scorers in 2020. Coaches who were a part of the programme went on to establish three new clubs. The course material was made available to the rest of the region, and seven other Spanish-speaking countries benefitted from the initiative to help engage people in their local language. With COVID-19 restrictions lifted and cricket returning to Nepal, around 2000 women and 1900 men featured in local tournaments in the country, providing the opportunity to engage new sponsors and broadcasters during the national events. Vanuatu Cricket livestreamed the Women’s T20 Grand Finals for the first time ever amassing 350,000 views. The exposure led the national team to visit COVID-19 impacted development programmes to engage and attract more women to participate with the set-up of four brand new teams. The CricketMania campaign delivered by Cricket Italy to promote the sport has become a game-changer for the sport in the country, bringing cricket to a much wider range of 11-18 year olds through schools, clubs and sport body networks than before. The recognition created by the campaign resulted in cricket being included in the National School Games list, enabling Cricket Italy to reach 8797 secondary schools and 8868 high schools. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: 2 key foreign players to miss Delhi Capitals' opening match vs Chennai Super Kings 100% Cricket Female Cricket Initiative of the Year The 100% Cricket Female Cricket Initiative regional winners recognise five engaging programmes for girls and women, with an emphasis on inclusivity and empowerment. Watch the video here. Cricket Brazil awarded 14 professional central contracts to the women’s national team, becoming the first Associate Member to fully contract the women’s team before the men’s, raising the status of the game in Brazil and benefitting 2000 girls who play regularly. The Danish Cricket Federation identified that if they wanted to bring more young women into cricket, they had to speak to them in their language, and listen to what they wanted. They therefore partnered with young female micro-influencers on Instagram to connect with new audiences. The energy and passion they brought into the social media campaign was carried over into online digital coaching sessions for new recruits and revitalised the ecosystem where 50 women attended the first kick-off cricket session. In Nigeria, the Girls Aspire initiative uses cricket as a tool for girls’ empowerment and socio-cultural change. Ijeoma Okigbo, a journalist, took what she had learnt from an ‘introduction to cricket’ course to a school in Gauraka, Niger State, and coached junior girls from underprivileged backgrounds. The 50 girls, who have gained confidence and respect, have become part of a cricket community. Samoa International Cricket Association’s Healthy Nanas programme is an initiative delivered in partnership with the Australian Government as part of the Team Up project. It offers women and girls a platform to participate in sport and ensure a healthy lifestyle, while also serving as a safe space to network and discuss issues in their personal lives and community – be it domestic violence, finance or health. In Malaysia, players were ambassadors for #GirlsForGoals and #Cricket4WomensAid, where they supported online fundraising for survivors of domestic abuse and spoke of how sports had transformed their lives. The Cricket Adiwira entry-level programme provided the opportunity for women and girls to play, setting themselves the target of 128 students playing in each of the 269 participating schools, with at least half of them female. WATCH: IPL 2021: Fascinating stats from tournament history Cricket 4 Good Social Impact Initiative of the Year Bhutan, Uganda, Indonesia, Italy and Peru have been recognized for their outstanding work in using cricket as a vehicle for social change or development within communities from all corners of the world. Watch the video here. In 15 of Bhutan’s cricket communities, players, coordinators, coaches, and office staff volunteered at hospitals, quarantine facilities and call centers preparing meals, delivering food and patrolling to ensure people followed protocols to assist with the COVID-19 response effort. The Uganda Cricket Association helped those within their network most impacted by COVID-19 including 100 school teachers to provide them food and financial assistance whilst they were unable to work due to the ongoing lockdown. Cricket Indonesia’s goal was to promote the healthy messages set out by the Government and ensure that cricket was positioned as a leader in Indonesian society. This was delivered through a webinar series, social media engagement, videos of how to play cricket at home and the distribution of free masks in the office’s local community. Cricket Italy partnered with Treedom to help offset 11,000kg CO2 emissions produced by the Member’s operations by formally planting 200 trees in Cameroon. Peru aimed to inspire movement and connection, whilst promoting the well-being of young people during lockdown. What began as a WhatsApp group for children aged 4-14 to exercise at home, expanded to Zoom classes and an online summer academy for older students, as well as a teacher training course. ICC Digital Fan Engagement of the Year Promotion of cricket activities in emerging nations and engaging fans is incredibly important to grow the sport and five worthy regional winners are being celebrated for their innovative work in 2020. Watch the video here. Vanuatu Cricket, with a following of only 12,000 on their Facebook Page utilized their digital platforms to reach over 16 million people through livestreaming of the Vanuatu T10 Blast and The Women’s T20 Grand Final. The results of this initiative meant more people were able to engage with Associate cricket, capitalising on the opportunity presented by COVID-19’s impact on the availability of live sport. The fun and engaging #TrainAtHome digital campaign focused on the best of the United States’ national team players and support staff bringing simple, effective cricket skills-based drills to the homes of fans to encourage them to keep active whilst staying safe during lockdown, resulting in 1.2 million Twitter impressions. The Fairway Super Series aimed at providing competition for promising junior cricketers ahead of national squad selection, replicated a modern T20 franchise event with Jersey Cricket Board delivering an online draft and match highlights to help the promotion of the event. Highlights of the four-team event reached a wide audience and raised the visibility of the teams’ charitable partners. Cricket Namibia delivered a two-month campaign in celebration of being crowned an ICC Development Award winner in 2019, consisting of social media posts and radio messages. It reached over 300,000 people, grew fan engagement for the men’s national team and Cricket Namibia‘s brand. Finally, Kuwait engaged one of the Middle East’s top digital media companies via a sponsorship programme where Kuwait Cricket’s social media channels are professionally managed with a comprehensive engagement programme of daily posts and updates to help create heroes within the cricket community. ICC General Manager – Development, William Glenwright said: “The ICC Development Awards are a recognition of the work that provides people and communities the opportunity to engage with our incredible sport, with 20 brilliant programmes in 2020 celebrated. “During a year where so many lives and communities were impacted in different ways - and on the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace - it is inspiring to share, the stories of the regional winners that helped people to feel connected with and participate in physical activity during a time where traditional cricket activity was so heavily restricted. “We are extremely proud of what the Members achieved in 2020.Their innovative approach to delivering cricket and their unrelenting commitment to growing a sport for all, focusing on inspiring more women and girls in particular to get involved at all levels is something they should all be proud of. I look forward to seeing which four entries will be crowned global winners on 20 April.”

ICC celebrates the positive impact of cricket on communities during an unprecedented 2020

With the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai set to host 10 matches of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, starting April 9, local residents near Marine Drive have urged Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray to change the venue amid a sharp rise in COVID-19 cases in the state including the capital Mumbai – the worst affected city.&nbsp;

In a letter to CM Thackerey, a local resident from D Road – just across the Wankhede Stadium – have urged the authorities to shift IPL 2021 matches from the iconic venue as it is located in a residential area.

On Monday, a large number of people were seen standing outside a team hotel near Nariman Point in a bid to catch a glimpse of their favourite cricketers. And the local residents are fearing that incidents like this could help the dreaded virus to spread.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-2-key-foreign-players-to-miss-delhi-capitals-opening-match-vs-chennai-super-kings-375665" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: 2 key foreign players to miss Delhi Capitals' opening match vs Chennai Super Kings</a>

Notably, DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai isn’t hosting any IPL 2021 matches with the iconic Wankhede Stadium being the host of all 10 games in the city.

Ashit Shroff, a resident of D-Road across Wankhede Stadium, who is also a member of the Marine Drive Residents' Association, has raised concern on behalf of all the residents regarding their health amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

The resident, in his letter which has been duly received by the Maharashtra government on e-mail, said that loud noises and strong lighting affect the senior citizens living in the area while also saying that matches are bound to create parking issues for the D-Road residents. &nbsp;

He added, "On one hand, the city is deeply affected by COVID-19, and the state government is compelled to restrict religious and social activities like marriages, deaths, etc and contrary to this in these difficult times an IPL Cricket match of such a magnitude lasting over several days is permitted."

"We urge change in the location of IPL match to DY Patil stadium or any other venue which is in a non-residential area," he appealed.

WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ipl-2021-fascinating-stats-from-tournament-history-375646" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Fascinating stats from tournament history</a>

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In the letter, the residents have raised the concern of fans gathering outside the stadium and hotels to see the cricketers passing in their busses.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Maharashtra government on Sunday issued a guideline for the fresh restrictions amid the surge in COVID-19 cases in the state including night curfew from 8pm to 7am on weekdays under their ‘Break the Chain’ initiative.&nbsp;

However, the authorities have cleared the deck for IPL franchises to practice post 8pm given all the bio-bubble protocols are followed strictly.

Mumbai is due to host 10 IPL 2021 matches at the Wankhede Stadium and nine of them are to start at 7:30 pm. The first game at the Wankhede is due on April 10 between Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals.

With the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai set to host 10 matches of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, starting April 9, local residents near Marine Drive have urged Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray to change the venue amid a sharp rise in COVID-19 cases in the state including the capital Mumbai – the worst affected city.

With the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai set to host 10 matches of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, starting April 9, local residents near Marine Drive have urged Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray to change the venue amid a sharp rise in COVID-19 cases in the state including the capital Mumbai – the worst affected city. In a letter to CM Thackerey, a local resident from D Road – just across the Wankhede Stadium – have urged the authorities to shift IPL 2021 matches from the iconic venue as it is located in a residential area. On Monday, a large number of people were seen standing outside a team hotel near Nariman Point in a bid to catch a glimpse of their favourite cricketers. And the local residents are fearing that incidents like this could help the dreaded virus to spread. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: 2 key foreign players to miss Delhi Capitals' opening match vs Chennai Super Kings Notably, DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai isn’t hosting any IPL 2021 matches with the iconic Wankhede Stadium being the host of all 10 games in the city. Ashit Shroff, a resident of D-Road across Wankhede Stadium, who is also a member of the Marine Drive Residents' Association, has raised concern on behalf of all the residents regarding their health amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The resident, in his letter which has been duly received by the Maharashtra government on e-mail, said that loud noises and strong lighting affect the senior citizens living in the area while also saying that matches are bound to create parking issues for the D-Road residents. He added, "On one hand, the city is deeply affected by COVID-19, and the state government is compelled to restrict religious and social activities like marriages, deaths, etc and contrary to this in these difficult times an IPL Cricket match of such a magnitude lasting over several days is permitted." "We urge change in the location of IPL match to DY Patil stadium or any other venue which is in a non-residential area," he appealed. WATCH: IPL 2021: Fascinating stats from tournament history @CMOMaharashtra pic.twitter.com/L0i4HxClCk — ASHIT SHROFF (@ashroff17) April 2, 2021 × In the letter, the residents have raised the concern of fans gathering outside the stadium and hotels to see the cricketers passing in their busses. Meanwhile, the Maharashtra government on Sunday issued a guideline for the fresh restrictions amid the surge in COVID-19 cases in the state including night curfew from 8pm to 7am on weekdays under their ‘Break the Chain’ initiative. However, the authorities have cleared the deck for IPL franchises to practice post 8pm given all the bio-bubble protocols are followed strictly. Mumbai is due to host 10 IPL 2021 matches at the Wankhede Stadium and nine of them are to start at 7:30 pm. The first game at the Wankhede is due on April 10 between Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals.

Residents near Wankhede Stadium appeal Maharashtra CM to shift IPL 2021 venue

In what comes as a huge blow to Delhi Capitals, the pace duo of Kagiso Rabada and Anrich Nortje are set to miss DC’s opening fixture of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 against Chennai Super Kings at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on April 10.<o:p></o:p>

Rabada and Nortje arrived in Mumbai on Tuesday and will now undergo a week of quarantine before joining the squad for the lucrative T20 tournament. The South African pace duo was retained by Delhi Capitals following a terrific show in IPL 2020 in the UAE, where they ended up as runner’s up.<o:p></o:p>

"Delhi Capitals' fast bowlers Kagiso Rabada and Anrich Nortje arrived at the team hotel in Mumbai on Tuesday," the franchise said in a statement.

Watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ipl-2021-fascinating-stats-from-tournament-history-375646" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Fascinating stats from tournament history</a><o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

"Rabada and Nortje will be in quarantine for one week," it added.<o:p></o:p>

The South African players, who are part of IPL 2021 and participated in the ongoing three-match ODI series against Pakistan, left on Monday to join their respective IPL franchises. As a result, they will miss the final ODI between South Africa and Pakistan. <o:p></o:p>

Earlier, DC appointed youngster Rishabh Pant as the skipper of their side for IPL 2021 after Shreyas Iyer was ruled out of the tournament due to a shoulder injury.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/maharashtra-government-clears-deck-for-ipl-allows-franchises-to-practice-after-8pm-at-wankhede-stadium-375542" hreflang="en">Maharashtra government clears deck for IPL, allows franchises to practice after 8pm at Wankhede Stadium</a>

DC would be looking to take another step in IPL and bag their maiden IPL trophy as the cricketing world gear up for the mega festival, starting from April 9.<o:p></o:p>

In what comes as a huge blow to Delhi Capitals, the pace duo of Kagiso Rabada and Anrich Nortje are set to miss DC’s opening fixture of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 against Chennai Super Kings at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on April 10.

In what comes as a huge blow to Delhi Capitals, the pace duo of Kagiso Rabada and Anrich Nortje are set to miss DC’s opening fixture of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 against Chennai Super Kings at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on April 10. Rabada and Nortje arrived in Mumbai on Tuesday and will now undergo a week of quarantine before joining the squad for the lucrative T20 tournament. The South African pace duo was retained by Delhi Capitals following a terrific show in IPL 2020 in the UAE, where they ended up as runner’s up. "Delhi Capitals' fast bowlers Kagiso Rabada and Anrich Nortje arrived at the team hotel in Mumbai on Tuesday," the franchise said in a statement. Watch: IPL 2021: Fascinating stats from tournament history "Rabada and Nortje will be in quarantine for one week," it added. The South African players, who are part of IPL 2021 and participated in the ongoing three-match ODI series against Pakistan, left on Monday to join their respective IPL franchises. As a result, they will miss the final ODI between South Africa and Pakistan. Earlier, DC appointed youngster Rishabh Pant as the skipper of their side for IPL 2021 after Shreyas Iyer was ruled out of the tournament due to a shoulder injury. ALSO READ: Maharashtra government clears deck for IPL, allows franchises to practice after 8pm at Wankhede Stadium DC would be looking to take another step in IPL and bag their maiden IPL trophy as the cricketing world gear up for the mega festival, starting from April 9.

IPL 2021: 2 key foreign players to miss Delhi Capitals' opening match vs Chennai Super Kings

Liverpool's last dance with Real Madrid ended in painful defeat, with Mohamed Salah's shoulder dislocated by Sergio Ramos dragging him to the ground and goalkeeper Loris Karius left apologising to his fans.

Yet Karius's two errors, which handed Madrid a 14th European triumph in the 2018 Champions League final, were also the start of a journey for Liverpool.&nbsp;

Karius was ruthlessly cast aside and Alisson Becker signed for a then world record fee for a goalkeeper.&nbsp;

A year later Liverpool were the ones hoisting the Champions League trophy after beating Tottenham Hotspur in Madrid, before an even heavier burden was lifted when they were crowned English champions for the first time in 30 years.

But those highs have been followed by a fall from grace as Liverpool prepare to face Real again in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final in Madrid on Tuesday.

Fortress Anfield has turned into a visitors' dream with fans absent because of the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

After nearly four years without a home league defeat, Liverpool have lost six in a row for the first time in the club's history.&nbsp;

Jurgen Klopp's men are in a scrap just to make it into next season's Champions League via a top-four finish in the Premier League.&nbsp;

Injuries have taken their toll. Captain Jordan Henderson and centre-backs Virgil Van Dijk, Joe Gomez, Joel Matip will all miss both legs of the Real tie and are unlikely to play again this season.&nbsp;

The signings of Thiago Alcantara and Diogo Jota last summer were designed to build from a position of strength, but both have also missed a large part of the campaign through injury.&nbsp;

However, there could yet be a happy ending to a difficult season. Saturday's comprehensive 3-0 win at Arsenal was Liverpool's most complete performance of 2021.&nbsp;

Jota is back fit and firing, scoring six times in his last four games for club and country. Thiago is also starting to find his rhythm, helped by the return of Fabinho to midfield after months of deputising as a makeshift centre-back.

&nbsp;

<h2>- Ramos reunion denied -</h2>

&nbsp;

Real Madrid might have taken more comfort from Liverpool's problems were they not confronting their own period of introspection.

Since winning a third consecutive Champions League three years ago, the team has stalled, a failure to update and refresh seeing them tumble down the European pecking order.&nbsp;

When Madrid and Liverpool were matched last month with Chelsea and Porto in the semi-finals, many thought Chelsea had a kind draw for the quarters, and the semis too.

Madrid have been unfortunate to see their one statement signing since 2018, Eden Hazard, succumb to injury. Hazard could have been the successor to Cristiano Ronaldo and the catalyst for renewal but instead he has become an irrelevance.

If Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane was too loyal to an ageing core, the club were also prevented from forcing change, the coronavirus pandemic slashing revenues and making significant signings impossible.

The rise of Kylian Mbappe and Erling Braut Haaland means Madrid could still make up for lost time in the transfer market this summer.

For now, Zidane will turn again to his tried and trusted for the first leg at Valdebebas, with Luka Modric, Casemiro, Toni Kroos and Karim Benzema all three years older than the last time they played Liverpool, and arguably even more important.&nbsp;

Ramos will be denied a reunion with Salah because of a calf injury.

Madrid will also be buoyed by an upturn in form, the kind of late surge that has seen them deliver when it matters in the Champions League in many years gone by.

But Liverpool are showing signs of a resurgence too, their victory over Arsenal their third in a row and most convincing performance this year.

Crucially, both will believe winning this quarter-final puts them in sight of another European success, that from there they could defy recent trajectories by beating even the loftiest opponents in the competition.

In 2018, Real Madrid and Liverpool knew victory would secure them the trophy. This time they will hope it sparks a resurgence.

Liverpool's last dance with Real Madrid ended in painful defeat, with Mohamed Salah's shoulder dislocated by Sergio Ramos dragging him to the ground and goalkeeper Loris Karius left apologising to his fans.

Liverpool's last dance with Real Madrid ended in painful defeat, with Mohamed Salah's shoulder dislocated by Sergio Ramos dragging him to the ground and goalkeeper Loris Karius left apologising to his fans. Yet Karius's two errors, which handed Madrid a 14th European triumph in the 2018 Champions League final, were also the start of a journey for Liverpool. Karius was ruthlessly cast aside and Alisson Becker signed for a then world record fee for a goalkeeper. A year later Liverpool were the ones hoisting the Champions League trophy after beating Tottenham Hotspur in Madrid, before an even heavier burden was lifted when they were crowned English champions for the first time in 30 years. But those highs have been followed by a fall from grace as Liverpool prepare to face Real again in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final in Madrid on Tuesday. Fortress Anfield has turned into a visitors' dream with fans absent because of the coronavirus pandemic. After nearly four years without a home league defeat, Liverpool have lost six in a row for the first time in the club's history. Jurgen Klopp's men are in a scrap just to make it into next season's Champions League via a top-four finish in the Premier League. Injuries have taken their toll. Captain Jordan Henderson and centre-backs Virgil Van Dijk, Joe Gomez, Joel Matip will all miss both legs of the Real tie and are unlikely to play again this season. The signings of Thiago Alcantara and Diogo Jota last summer were designed to build from a position of strength, but both have also missed a large part of the campaign through injury. However, there could yet be a happy ending to a difficult season. Saturday's comprehensive 3-0 win at Arsenal was Liverpool's most complete performance of 2021. Jota is back fit and firing, scoring six times in his last four games for club and country. Thiago is also starting to find his rhythm, helped by the return of Fabinho to midfield after months of deputising as a makeshift centre-back. - Ramos reunion denied - Real Madrid might have taken more comfort from Liverpool's problems were they not confronting their own period of introspection. Since winning a third consecutive Champions League three years ago, the team has stalled, a failure to update and refresh seeing them tumble down the European pecking order. When Madrid and Liverpool were matched last month with Chelsea and Porto in the semi-finals, many thought Chelsea had a kind draw for the quarters, and the semis too. Madrid have been unfortunate to see their one statement signing since 2018, Eden Hazard, succumb to injury. Hazard could have been the successor to Cristiano Ronaldo and the catalyst for renewal but instead he has become an irrelevance. If Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane was too loyal to an ageing core, the club were also prevented from forcing change, the coronavirus pandemic slashing revenues and making significant signings impossible. The rise of Kylian Mbappe and Erling Braut Haaland means Madrid could still make up for lost time in the transfer market this summer. For now, Zidane will turn again to his tried and trusted for the first leg at Valdebebas, with Luka Modric, Casemiro, Toni Kroos and Karim Benzema all three years older than the last time they played Liverpool, and arguably even more important. Ramos will be denied a reunion with Salah because of a calf injury. Madrid will also be buoyed by an upturn in form, the kind of late surge that has seen them deliver when it matters in the Champions League in many years gone by. But Liverpool are showing signs of a resurgence too, their victory over Arsenal their third in a row and most convincing performance this year. Crucially, both will believe winning this quarter-final puts them in sight of another European success, that from there they could defy recent trajectories by beating even the loftiest opponents in the competition. In 2018, Real Madrid and Liverpool knew victory would secure them the trophy. This time they will hope it sparks a resurgence.

Fallen giants seek revival as Real Madrid, Liverpool battle again

Pakistan opening batsman Fakhar Zaman's astonishing innings of 193 could not prevent South Africa winning the second one-day international by 17 runs in Johannesburg on Sunday.

Pakistan seemed to have no chance when they slumped to 205 for seven in the 38th over in reply to South Africa's 341 for six at the Wanderers Stadium. But Fakhar's assault took them to 324 for nine.

With only his team's bowlers to keep him company, the left-handed Fakhar, who was on 97 when Faheem Ashraf was the seventh man out, went on all-out attack.&nbsp;

In all, he hit 18 fours and ten sixes in a 155-ball innings before being run out in the last over by a direct hit from long-off as he was trying for a second run.

With wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock seemingly gesturing for Aiden Markram to throw to the bowler's end, Fakhar slowed down and was surprised when the ball hit the stumps at the batsman's end when he was a metre or more short, ending his bold counter-attack.

"It was one of the best innings I have seen in my life," said Pakistan captain Babar Azam.

"It was an incredible innings, probably the best I have come across," said South African captain Temba Bavuma. "Everything he tried came off."

Fakhar, who made a ODI double century against Zimbabwe in 2018, was named man of the match.

"I tried my level best," he said.&nbsp;"That's my game.

"The wicket was really good, the boundaries were very short and the run rate was going up. I was just hitting the ball."

Fakhar admitted he was taken by surprise by his dismissal. "I was looking at Haris Rauf because I thought the run-out would be at his end. It was my own fault," he said at the post-match press conference.

&nbsp;

<h2>- Productive partnerships -</h2>

&nbsp;

South Africa's win levelled the three-match series.&nbsp;

The hosts will be without five of their Indian Premier League-contracted players for the deciding match in Centurion on Wednesday.

De Kock, Bavuma, Rassie van der Dussen and David Miller hit half-centuries after South Africa were sent in.

The South African innings was in dramatic contrast to their effort in the first match at Centurion, when they lost four wickets inside the first 15 overs, with Pakistan going on to win by three wickets off the last ball.

Early moisture in the pitch again made batting tricky but South Africa put together a succession of productive partnerships.

De Kock (80) and Aiden Markram (39) put on 55 for the first wicket before Bavuma (92) and De Kock added 114 for the second wicket.

It set a platform for Van der Dussen to hit a blistering 60 off 37 balls as he and Bavuma put on 101 for the third wicket.

Given the freedom to play his shots from the start, in contrast to his century in Centurion when he had to rebuild the innings, Van der Dussen hit six fours and four sixes.

Miller slammed an unbeaten 50 off 27 balls.

Babar, who made a century in the first match, again looked in sublime form as he cruised to 31 off 33 balls after the early loss of Imam-ul-Haq.

But he was undone by the pace of Anrich Nortje, mistiming a pull shot off Nortje's fourth ball.

Nortje followed up with two more quick wickets as Pakistan slipped to 85 for four.

Shadab Khan, Asif Ali and Faheem Ashraf offered brief support but the match looked to be well beyond Pakistan's reach when Faheem was seventh out, with 137 runs still needed.

But that was without reckoning on Fakhar.

Pakistan opening batsman Fakhar Zaman's astonishing innings of 193 could not prevent South Africa winning the second one-day international by 17 runs in Johannesburg on Sunday.

Pakistan opening batsman Fakhar Zaman's astonishing innings of 193 could not prevent South Africa winning the second one-day international by 17 runs in Johannesburg on Sunday. Pakistan seemed to have no chance when they slumped to 205 for seven in the 38th over in reply to South Africa's 341 for six at the Wanderers Stadium. But Fakhar's assault took them to 324 for nine. With only his team's bowlers to keep him company, the left-handed Fakhar, who was on 97 when Faheem Ashraf was the seventh man out, went on all-out attack. In all, he hit 18 fours and ten sixes in a 155-ball innings before being run out in the last over by a direct hit from long-off as he was trying for a second run. With wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock seemingly gesturing for Aiden Markram to throw to the bowler's end, Fakhar slowed down and was surprised when the ball hit the stumps at the batsman's end when he was a metre or more short, ending his bold counter-attack. "It was one of the best innings I have seen in my life," said Pakistan captain Babar Azam. "It was an incredible innings, probably the best I have come across," said South African captain Temba Bavuma. "Everything he tried came off." Fakhar, who made a ODI double century against Zimbabwe in 2018, was named man of the match. "I tried my level best," he said. "That's my game. "The wicket was really good, the boundaries were very short and the run rate was going up. I was just hitting the ball." Fakhar admitted he was taken by surprise by his dismissal. "I was looking at Haris Rauf because I thought the run-out would be at his end. It was my own fault," he said at the post-match press conference. - Productive partnerships - South Africa's win levelled the three-match series. The hosts will be without five of their Indian Premier League-contracted players for the deciding match in Centurion on Wednesday. De Kock, Bavuma, Rassie van der Dussen and David Miller hit half-centuries after South Africa were sent in. The South African innings was in dramatic contrast to their effort in the first match at Centurion, when they lost four wickets inside the first 15 overs, with Pakistan going on to win by three wickets off the last ball. Early moisture in the pitch again made batting tricky but South Africa put together a succession of productive partnerships. De Kock (80) and Aiden Markram (39) put on 55 for the first wicket before Bavuma (92) and De Kock added 114 for the second wicket. It set a platform for Van der Dussen to hit a blistering 60 off 37 balls as he and Bavuma put on 101 for the third wicket. Given the freedom to play his shots from the start, in contrast to his century in Centurion when he had to rebuild the innings, Van der Dussen hit six fours and four sixes. Miller slammed an unbeaten 50 off 27 balls. Babar, who made a century in the first match, again looked in sublime form as he cruised to 31 off 33 balls after the early loss of Imam-ul-Haq. But he was undone by the pace of Anrich Nortje, mistiming a pull shot off Nortje's fourth ball. Nortje followed up with two more quick wickets as Pakistan slipped to 85 for four. Shadab Khan, Asif Ali and Faheem Ashraf offered brief support but the match looked to be well beyond Pakistan's reach when Faheem was seventh out, with 137 runs still needed. But that was without reckoning on Fakhar.

Fakhar's 193 in vain as South Africa beat Pakistan by 17 runs

Fabio Quartararo of Yamaha won the Doha MotoGP on Sunday with French compatriot Johann Zarco of Ducati-Pramac finishing second.

Spanish rookie Jorge Martin, the teammate of Zarco, was third after starting the race on pole position.

It was the first time two French riders had been on the podium in the sport's elite class since 1954 when Pierre Monneret won and Jacques Collot was third on home soil in Reims.

Quartararo joked modestly that he "will enjoy the moment with a nice McDonald's tonight" following his win.

"It is easy to say I've not won a lot of races -- but wow!" he added.

"I came from eighth, the pace and track were totally different from the fourth practice and warm-up.

"I always dreamed to win in Qatar, unfortunately I was not the first (this season)."

Zarco's second-place finish was enough to put him on top of the world championship after two rounds.

He has 40 points with Quartararo in second, just four points behind.

<h2>- 'Happy for both of them' -</h2>

"I was pretty happy that Jorge (Martin) took the pace, after half a race he had the pace -- but I was still able to stay behind him," Zarco said.

"He was so clean in the style. It was this situation in four laps to the end, Fabio came in the right place to overtake Jorge.

"I tried to overtake Fabio but I could not pass him.

"I'm so happy for both of them -- victory of a French rider and podium for a teammate."

Spain's Alex Rins, on a Suzuki, and Yamaha's Maverick Vinales, the winner of the season-opening Qatar MotoGP on the same Losail track last week, filled out the top five.

Vinales had an eventful race after a poor start and his frustration was visible after the chequered flag fell.

Valentino Rossi, the seven-time MotoGP world champion, was 16th on the Yamaha-SRT, after starting in 21st place, the Italian's worst ever qualifying performance.

Italy's Francesco Bagnaia, on a Ducati, defending world champion Joan Mir of Spain on a Suzuki, South Africa's Brad Binder, of KTM, Australia's Jack Miller, on a Ducati, and Spanish Aprilia rider Aleix Espargaro completed the top 10.

Miller had a second ninth-place finish in as many weeks despite a strong showing in free practice, with a bump with Mir dominating his race.

The two exchanged words heatedly for the duration of the subsequent straight.

Martin was visibly delighted with the result, describing it as "a difficult race -- I am a rookie!".

"I think I did a really mature race. The passing was so difficult, if it was another rider (than Zarco) I would have taken him back for sure.

"I'm happy with third position, my first podium finish."

Britain's Sam Lowes won his second Moto2 race in Qatar in as many weeks.

Completing 20 laps in 39 minutes 52.702 seconds, Kalex-rider Lowes pipped Australia's Remy Gardner by 0.190 seconds.

Spain's Raul Fernandez finished third, 3.371 seconds off the pace.

"The wind was there so it was easy to stay behind but when I got to the front it was hard to pull away because of the wind," Lowes said.

Spanish teenager Pedro Acosta defied the odds to win the Moto3 race after starting in the pit lane following a penalty.

It was the 16-year-old KTM rider's first world championship victory, having finished second in the season-opening Qatar Grand Prix last week.

He beat Darryn Binder into second place and leads the South African by nine points in the early riders' standings.

Fabio Quartararo of Yamaha won the Doha MotoGP on Sunday with French compatriot Johann Zarco of Ducati-Pramac finishing second. Spanish rookie Jorge Martin, the teammate of Zarco, was third after starting the race on pole position.

Fabio Quartararo of Yamaha won the Doha MotoGP on Sunday with French compatriot Johann Zarco of Ducati-Pramac finishing second. Spanish rookie Jorge Martin, the teammate of Zarco, was third after starting the race on pole position. It was the first time two French riders had been on the podium in the sport's elite class since 1954 when Pierre Monneret won and Jacques Collot was third on home soil in Reims. Quartararo joked modestly that he "will enjoy the moment with a nice McDonald's tonight" following his win. "It is easy to say I've not won a lot of races -- but wow!" he added. "I came from eighth, the pace and track were totally different from the fourth practice and warm-up. "I always dreamed to win in Qatar, unfortunately I was not the first (this season)." Zarco's second-place finish was enough to put him on top of the world championship after two rounds. He has 40 points with Quartararo in second, just four points behind. - 'Happy for both of them' - "I was pretty happy that Jorge (Martin) took the pace, after half a race he had the pace -- but I was still able to stay behind him," Zarco said. "He was so clean in the style. It was this situation in four laps to the end, Fabio came in the right place to overtake Jorge. "I tried to overtake Fabio but I could not pass him. "I'm so happy for both of them -- victory of a French rider and podium for a teammate." Spain's Alex Rins, on a Suzuki, and Yamaha's Maverick Vinales, the winner of the season-opening Qatar MotoGP on the same Losail track last week, filled out the top five. Vinales had an eventful race after a poor start and his frustration was visible after the chequered flag fell. Valentino Rossi, the seven-time MotoGP world champion, was 16th on the Yamaha-SRT, after starting in 21st place, the Italian's worst ever qualifying performance. Italy's Francesco Bagnaia, on a Ducati, defending world champion Joan Mir of Spain on a Suzuki, South Africa's Brad Binder, of KTM, Australia's Jack Miller, on a Ducati, and Spanish Aprilia rider Aleix Espargaro completed the top 10. Miller had a second ninth-place finish in as many weeks despite a strong showing in free practice, with a bump with Mir dominating his race. The two exchanged words heatedly for the duration of the subsequent straight. Martin was visibly delighted with the result, describing it as "a difficult race -- I am a rookie!". "I think I did a really mature race. The passing was so difficult, if it was another rider (than Zarco) I would have taken him back for sure. "I'm happy with third position, my first podium finish." Britain's Sam Lowes won his second Moto2 race in Qatar in as many weeks. Completing 20 laps in 39 minutes 52.702 seconds, Kalex-rider Lowes pipped Australia's Remy Gardner by 0.190 seconds. Spain's Raul Fernandez finished third, 3.371 seconds off the pace. "The wind was there so it was easy to stay behind but when I got to the front it was hard to pull away because of the wind," Lowes said. Spanish teenager Pedro Acosta defied the odds to win the Moto3 race after starting in the pit lane following a penalty. It was the 16-year-old KTM rider's first world championship victory, having finished second in the season-opening Qatar Grand Prix last week. He beat Darryn Binder into second place and leads the South African by nine points in the early riders' standings.

Off for a Big Mac: Quartararo wins Doha MotoGP, Zarco makes French double

Valencia's players walked off during their La Liga game with Cadiz on Sunday in protest against racist abuse, with coach Javi Gracia later claiming they were told they would be punished if they refused to resume the match.

The fixture was stopped in the 37th minute after Valencia said their player Mouctar Diakhaby was the victim of a racial insult.&nbsp;

Diakhaby had been involved in a heated exchange with Cadiz's Juan Cala before indicating to the referee David Medie Jimenez that he was leaving the field.&nbsp;

The Frenchman's team-mates followed him off and Cadiz also went down the tunnel soon after.

Around 15 minutes later, the Valencia team returned and a further five minutes afterwards, the game restarted, this time without Diakhaby.

Diakhaby was replaced by Hugo Guillamon and watched the second half sitting in the stands.

"In the changing rooms we were told if we didn't return, we would be sanctioned," said Gracia, who would not specify who had made the threat.

"In that moment, we spoke with Diakha, about how he was, and he told us that he wouldn't play but he understood perfectly we had to continue playing to avoid a possible sanction, so we returned."

Valencia defender Jose Gaya also told Spanish television after the game: "He (Diakhaby) told us he was insulted in a racist way. We went back out to play because they told us they could penalise us with three points and something more. He asked us to go back, he's gutted, it was a very ugly insult."

Valencia had earlier indicated it was Diakhaby's decision that the team return to the pitch.&nbsp;

<h2>- 'I believe in my player' -</h2>

The club wrote on social media shortly after the game resumed: "The team have held a meeting and decided to continue the game, in order to fight for the honour of the club, but denounce racism of any kind.&nbsp;

"We offer our complete backing to @Diakhaby_5. The player, who had received a racial insult, requested that his teammates return to the pitch. We support you Mouctar."&nbsp;

Cadiz coach Alvaro Cervera said Cala insisted he had not racially insulted Diakhaby.&nbsp;

"We returned to the changing room, we talked," Cervera said.&nbsp;

"Cala said that at no time did he insult the player. I believe in my player."

La Liga would not comment on the incident after the match.

An official complaint from Valencia or mention of the incident in the referee's report could lead to further investigation and sanctions against Cadiz.

President of the Valencian regional government Ximo Puig wrote on Twitter: "Equality and rejection of racism. That is the most important match. A hug to Diakhaby. This is his house, his land."

The exchange occurred after a tussle between Diakhaby and Cala in Valencia's penalty area.

As Cala ran back to his own half, the pair continued to argue, with Diakhaby suddenly sprinting towards Cala, who was standing close to the halfway line.

Several players rushed over to separate them, with Gabriel Paulista among those shouting at the referee.&nbsp;

Diakhaby was visibly distressed and his reaction earned him a yellow card.&nbsp;

After being escorted away, Diakhaby spoke individually with the referee before walking off, together with Gabriel.&nbsp;

The Cadiz players waited a few minutes longer before also leaving the pitch.

The referee was not close to the argument between Diakhaby and Cala, and Gracia said "there was no record from the referee that this had happened".

Cala was then also substituted at half-time, having earlier scored the opening goal for Cadiz, with Kevin Gameiro equalising for Valencia.&nbsp;

Cala's replacement Marcos Lopez scored a late winner to secure a 2-1 victory for Cadiz.

Last month, Athletic Bilbao's Inaki Williams gave evidence in court as part of an investigation into Espanyol fans racially insulting him during a match in January last year.

In December 2019, a second tier game between Rayo Vallecano and Albacete was suspended after Albacete refused to come out for the second half following chants from Rayo fans calling their striker Roman Zozulya a Nazi.

Valencia's players walked off during their La Liga game with Cadiz on Sunday in protest against racist abuse, with coach Javi Gracia later claiming they were told they would be punished if they refused to resume the match.

Valencia's players walked off during their La Liga game with Cadiz on Sunday in protest against racist abuse, with coach Javi Gracia later claiming they were told they would be punished if they refused to resume the match. The fixture was stopped in the 37th minute after Valencia said their player Mouctar Diakhaby was the victim of a racial insult. Diakhaby had been involved in a heated exchange with Cadiz's Juan Cala before indicating to the referee David Medie Jimenez that he was leaving the field. The Frenchman's team-mates followed him off and Cadiz also went down the tunnel soon after. Around 15 minutes later, the Valencia team returned and a further five minutes afterwards, the game restarted, this time without Diakhaby. Diakhaby was replaced by Hugo Guillamon and watched the second half sitting in the stands. "In the changing rooms we were told if we didn't return, we would be sanctioned," said Gracia, who would not specify who had made the threat. "In that moment, we spoke with Diakha, about how he was, and he told us that he wouldn't play but he understood perfectly we had to continue playing to avoid a possible sanction, so we returned." Valencia defender Jose Gaya also told Spanish television after the game: "He (Diakhaby) told us he was insulted in a racist way. We went back out to play because they told us they could penalise us with three points and something more. He asked us to go back, he's gutted, it was a very ugly insult." Valencia had earlier indicated it was Diakhaby's decision that the team return to the pitch. - 'I believe in my player' - The club wrote on social media shortly after the game resumed: "The team have held a meeting and decided to continue the game, in order to fight for the honour of the club, but denounce racism of any kind. "We offer our complete backing to @Diakhaby_5. The player, who had received a racial insult, requested that his teammates return to the pitch. We support you Mouctar." Cadiz coach Alvaro Cervera said Cala insisted he had not racially insulted Diakhaby. "We returned to the changing room, we talked," Cervera said. "Cala said that at no time did he insult the player. I believe in my player." La Liga would not comment on the incident after the match. An official complaint from Valencia or mention of the incident in the referee's report could lead to further investigation and sanctions against Cadiz. President of the Valencian regional government Ximo Puig wrote on Twitter: "Equality and rejection of racism. That is the most important match. A hug to Diakhaby. This is his house, his land." The exchange occurred after a tussle between Diakhaby and Cala in Valencia's penalty area. As Cala ran back to his own half, the pair continued to argue, with Diakhaby suddenly sprinting towards Cala, who was standing close to the halfway line. Several players rushed over to separate them, with Gabriel Paulista among those shouting at the referee. Diakhaby was visibly distressed and his reaction earned him a yellow card. After being escorted away, Diakhaby spoke individually with the referee before walking off, together with Gabriel. The Cadiz players waited a few minutes longer before also leaving the pitch. The referee was not close to the argument between Diakhaby and Cala, and Gracia said "there was no record from the referee that this had happened". Cala was then also substituted at half-time, having earlier scored the opening goal for Cadiz, with Kevin Gameiro equalising for Valencia. Cala's replacement Marcos Lopez scored a late winner to secure a 2-1 victory for Cadiz. Last month, Athletic Bilbao's Inaki Williams gave evidence in court as part of an investigation into Espanyol fans racially insulting him during a match in January last year. In December 2019, a second tier game between Rayo Vallecano and Albacete was suspended after Albacete refused to come out for the second half following chants from Rayo fans calling their striker Roman Zozulya a Nazi.

Valencia 'threatened with punishment' for walking off in racism protest

Manchester United came from behind to beat Brighton 2-1 on Sunday to cut Manchester City's lead at the top of the Premier League to 14 points, while Tottenham's top-four challenge suffered a setback as Joe Willock's late strike rescued a 2-2 draw for lowly Newcastle.

Not for the first time this season, United needed a second-half fightback after a dismal first 45 minutes to take all three points thanks to goals from Marcus Rashford and Mason Greenwood.

Danny Welbeck deservedly opened the scoring for the Seagulls against his old club before Lewis Dunk hit the crossbar for the visitors.

However, Brighton also repeated the story of their season as they failed to make the most of their dominance before the break.

Rashford slotted home an equaliser on 62 minutes from Bruno Fernandes's pass to reward United's marked improvement.

Fernandes was involved again for the winner as his cross was volleyed back across goal by Paul Pogba and into the path of Greenwood to head home just his second league goal of the season.

United's chances of chasing down City look forlorn with the runaway league leaders needing just 11 points from their remaining seven games to seal a third title in four years.

But victory opened up an 11-point cushion for the Red Devils over fifth-placed Tottenham and Liverpool in their quest to qualify for next season's Champions League.

"It's a long way up (to City), but we want to consolidate second place," said Solskjaer.

<h2>- 'Same coach, different players' -</h2>

Spurs were left to rue letting another lead slip away at St. James' Park.

Jose Mourinho's side were just five minutes away from moving into fourth place thanks to Harry Kane's first-half double.

Joelinton had put Newcastle ahead and Steve Bruce's men were rewarded for a much-improved performance when on-loan Arsenal midfielder Willock smashed in off the underside of the bar five minutes from time.

Tottenham edge ahead of Liverpool on goal difference but are still two points behind fourth-placed Chelsea with eight games left.

"I'm frustrated. We needed to win the match. We created some instability with so many individual defensive mistakes that we made," Mourinho said.

Asked why Tottenham have struggled to hold onto leads when his teams have been so solid defensively in the past, Mourinho replied: "Same coach, different players.

"The Premier League is hard and is high-level football, and when in some actions you don't show that you belong to that high level of football, it's difficult."

Willock's goal could prove invaluable for fourth-bottom Newcastle as they moved three points clear of Fulham, who were beaten 3-1 at Aston Villa.

Fulham looked set to move out of the drop zone when Aleksandar Mitrovic pounced on a loose pass by Tyrone Mings to score his first league goal since September.

Villa had looked devoid of ideas without talisman Jack Grealish due to injury.

But Dean Smith's men suddenly sparked into life to score three times in the final 12 minutes.

Egyptian winger Trezeguet came off the bench to score twice in three minutes to turn the game around.

Ollie Watkins then tapped home from Bertrand Traore's cross to round off the scoring.

<h2>- Saints alive -</h2>

Earlier on Sunday, Southampton took a huge step towards survival by coming from 2-0 down to beat Burnley 3-2.

Chris Wood's penalty and Matej Vydra's strike gave the visitors a dream start inside 28 minutes.

But Ralph Hasenhuttl's side&nbsp;hit back impressively as Stuart Armstrong and Danny Ings scored before half-time.

Nathan Redmond bagged the 66th-minute winner when he volleyed home from Theo Walcott's cross.

"These points were important," Hasenhuttl said. "When you see five goals it's always good for TV, but not so good for the hearts of the managers."

After only their second league win in 13 games, FA Cup semi-finalists Southampton are three points above Burnley, who sit seven points ahead of Fulham.

Manchester United came from behind to beat Brighton 2-1 on Sunday to cut Manchester City's lead at the top of the Premier League to 14 points, while Tottenham's top-four challenge suffered a setback as Joe Willock's late strike rescued a 2-2 draw for lowly Newcastle.

Manchester United came from behind to beat Brighton 2-1 on Sunday to cut Manchester City's lead at the top of the Premier League to 14 points, while Tottenham's top-four challenge suffered a setback as Joe Willock's late strike rescued a 2-2 draw for lowly Newcastle. Not for the first time this season, United needed a second-half fightback after a dismal first 45 minutes to take all three points thanks to goals from Marcus Rashford and Mason Greenwood. Danny Welbeck deservedly opened the scoring for the Seagulls against his old club before Lewis Dunk hit the crossbar for the visitors. However, Brighton also repeated the story of their season as they failed to make the most of their dominance before the break. Rashford slotted home an equaliser on 62 minutes from Bruno Fernandes's pass to reward United's marked improvement. Fernandes was involved again for the winner as his cross was volleyed back across goal by Paul Pogba and into the path of Greenwood to head home just his second league goal of the season. United's chances of chasing down City look forlorn with the runaway league leaders needing just 11 points from their remaining seven games to seal a third title in four years. But victory opened up an 11-point cushion for the Red Devils over fifth-placed Tottenham and Liverpool in their quest to qualify for next season's Champions League. "It's a long way up (to City), but we want to consolidate second place," said Solskjaer. - 'Same coach, different players' - Spurs were left to rue letting another lead slip away at St. James' Park. Jose Mourinho's side were just five minutes away from moving into fourth place thanks to Harry Kane's first-half double. Joelinton had put Newcastle ahead and Steve Bruce's men were rewarded for a much-improved performance when on-loan Arsenal midfielder Willock smashed in off the underside of the bar five minutes from time. Tottenham edge ahead of Liverpool on goal difference but are still two points behind fourth-placed Chelsea with eight games left. "I'm frustrated. We needed to win the match. We created some instability with so many individual defensive mistakes that we made," Mourinho said. Asked why Tottenham have struggled to hold onto leads when his teams have been so solid defensively in the past, Mourinho replied: "Same coach, different players. "The Premier League is hard and is high-level football, and when in some actions you don't show that you belong to that high level of football, it's difficult." Willock's goal could prove invaluable for fourth-bottom Newcastle as they moved three points clear of Fulham, who were beaten 3-1 at Aston Villa. Fulham looked set to move out of the drop zone when Aleksandar Mitrovic pounced on a loose pass by Tyrone Mings to score his first league goal since September. Villa had looked devoid of ideas without talisman Jack Grealish due to injury. But Dean Smith's men suddenly sparked into life to score three times in the final 12 minutes. Egyptian winger Trezeguet came off the bench to score twice in three minutes to turn the game around. Ollie Watkins then tapped home from Bertrand Traore's cross to round off the scoring. - Saints alive - Earlier on Sunday, Southampton took a huge step towards survival by coming from 2-0 down to beat Burnley 3-2. Chris Wood's penalty and Matej Vydra's strike gave the visitors a dream start inside 28 minutes. But Ralph Hasenhuttl's side hit back impressively as Stuart Armstrong and Danny Ings scored before half-time. Nathan Redmond bagged the 66th-minute winner when he volleyed home from Theo Walcott's cross. "These points were important," Hasenhuttl said. "When you see five goals it's always good for TV, but not so good for the hearts of the managers." After only their second league win in 13 games, FA Cup semi-finalists Southampton are three points above Burnley, who sit seven points ahead of Fulham.

Man Utd bounce back to beat Brighton, Spurs held by Newcastle

Pep Guardiola praised "exceptional" Borussia Dortmund striker Erling Haaland as he admitted Manchester City could spend the kind of money required to sign a player of his calibre.

City are one of several top clubs linked with a blockbuster move for Haaland in the close-season.

The 20-year-old Norwegian is the talk of Europe after scoring 33 goals in 32 games this season, while becoming the youngest player to reach 20 career goals in the Champions League.

Already well aware of Haaland's quality, City boss Guardiola has a chance to take a closer look when Dortmund visit the Etihad Stadium for the Champions League quarter-final first leg on Tuesday.

"He's exceptional for his age. The numbers speak for themselves," Guardiola told reporters on Monday.

"He can score right, left, counter attacks, in the box, headers. He's a fantastic striker, everyone knows it.&nbsp;

"He's only 20. To score that many goals at this age, it's not easy to find a player like that.

"A blind guy can realise he's a good striker, it's not necessary to be a manager."

The runaway Premier League leaders will need a new forward next season after announcing their record goalscorer Sergio Aguero is set to leave at the end of this term.

Guardiola recently suggested the financial fallout from the coronavirus pandemic would make it difficult for his team to meet Dortmund's reported £130 million ($180 million) asking price for Haaland.

But Guardiola dropped a hint that a bid for Haaland would not be impossible as he suggested City would eventually break their transfer record -- currently the £62 million they spent on Benfica defender Ruben Dias last year.

"So far, the club has decided not to spend close to £100 million for a player," Guardiola said.

"Maybe in the future it will happen when the club decides it is necessary to improve the team for the next five to 10 years. The organisation has so far decided not to and that is why we haven't. Maybe in the future.

"Spending a lot of money on one player doesn't give you an advantage to win. Football is a team game, everyone makes a contribution. Competitions are not won by one player, it is every player."

<h2>- Painful memories -</h2>

Although Dortmund are struggling in the Bundesliga, Haaland's presence means they could pose a significant threat to City's quadruple bid.

With a third Premier League title in four years a formality for City -- who are in the League Cup final and FA Cup semi-finals -- it is the Champions League that will be their focus in the final weeks of the campaign.

City have never won Europe's elite club competition and Guardiola last tasted Champions League glory when he was Barcelona boss in 2011.

Criticised for failing to win the Champions League without Barca star Lionel Messi, Guardiola has seen City eliminated at the quarter-final stage of the tournament for the last three years.

The Spaniard admitted last season's shock last eight defeat against Lyon in Lisbon was especially tough to take.

"Of course, it remained in my head for weeks and it was painful, I cannot deny," Guardiola said.

"It was the last game of the season, we wanted to go through and we accept we didn't do it well, didn't deserve to go through.

"Going out to Lyon, it was different. We went out, said goodbye and went on our holidays. It was a disappointment but we are here again, with a chance."

The ghosts of those bitter European defeats were on Guardiola's mind as he claimed their fine Premier League form would not be a factor against Dortmund.

"Why should we win the other competitions just because we are leading the Premier League?" he said.

"The only concern is to try to win the game. Win this game and after comes Leeds, and after we go to Dortmund to win that game."

Pep Guardiola praised "exceptional" Borussia Dortmund striker Erling Haaland as he admitted Manchester City could spend the kind of money required to sign a player of his calibre.

Pep Guardiola praised "exceptional" Borussia Dortmund striker Erling Haaland as he admitted Manchester City could spend the kind of money required to sign a player of his calibre. City are one of several top clubs linked with a blockbuster move for Haaland in the close-season. The 20-year-old Norwegian is the talk of Europe after scoring 33 goals in 32 games this season, while becoming the youngest player to reach 20 career goals in the Champions League. Already well aware of Haaland's quality, City boss Guardiola has a chance to take a closer look when Dortmund visit the Etihad Stadium for the Champions League quarter-final first leg on Tuesday. "He's exceptional for his age. The numbers speak for themselves," Guardiola told reporters on Monday. "He can score right, left, counter attacks, in the box, headers. He's a fantastic striker, everyone knows it. "He's only 20. To score that many goals at this age, it's not easy to find a player like that. "A blind guy can realise he's a good striker, it's not necessary to be a manager." The runaway Premier League leaders will need a new forward next season after announcing their record goalscorer Sergio Aguero is set to leave at the end of this term. Guardiola recently suggested the financial fallout from the coronavirus pandemic would make it difficult for his team to meet Dortmund's reported £130 million ($180 million) asking price for Haaland. But Guardiola dropped a hint that a bid for Haaland would not be impossible as he suggested City would eventually break their transfer record -- currently the £62 million they spent on Benfica defender Ruben Dias last year. "So far, the club has decided not to spend close to £100 million for a player," Guardiola said. "Maybe in the future it will happen when the club decides it is necessary to improve the team for the next five to 10 years. The organisation has so far decided not to and that is why we haven't. Maybe in the future. "Spending a lot of money on one player doesn't give you an advantage to win. Football is a team game, everyone makes a contribution. Competitions are not won by one player, it is every player." - Painful memories - Although Dortmund are struggling in the Bundesliga, Haaland's presence means they could pose a significant threat to City's quadruple bid. With a third Premier League title in four years a formality for City -- who are in the League Cup final and FA Cup semi-finals -- it is the Champions League that will be their focus in the final weeks of the campaign. City have never won Europe's elite club competition and Guardiola last tasted Champions League glory when he was Barcelona boss in 2011. Criticised for failing to win the Champions League without Barca star Lionel Messi, Guardiola has seen City eliminated at the quarter-final stage of the tournament for the last three years. The Spaniard admitted last season's shock last eight defeat against Lyon in Lisbon was especially tough to take. "Of course, it remained in my head for weeks and it was painful, I cannot deny," Guardiola said. "It was the last game of the season, we wanted to go through and we accept we didn't do it well, didn't deserve to go through. "Going out to Lyon, it was different. We went out, said goodbye and went on our holidays. It was a disappointment but we are here again, with a chance." The ghosts of those bitter European defeats were on Guardiola's mind as he claimed their fine Premier League form would not be a factor against Dortmund. "Why should we win the other competitions just because we are leading the Premier League?" he said. "The only concern is to try to win the game. Win this game and after comes Leeds, and after we go to Dortmund to win that game."

Guardiola hails 'exceptional' Haaland amid bid talk

Zinedine Zidane believes Real Madrid are being underrated ahead of the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final against Liverpool on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Madrid have endured a patchy season but remain alive in the Champions League and La Liga, with the gap to Atletico Madrid down to three points with nine games left.&nbsp;

And if they can overcome Liverpool, they will have a semi-final to come against either Chelsea or Porto and be within sight of a 14th European triumph.

"I think my team has been underestimated," said Zidane in a press conference on Monday.&nbsp;"I trust my team a lot and I know what it can give. But we can't change what people think. We can only work day by day and while there is still a chance, we never give up.&nbsp;

"We are going to fight for everything. We have had difficult moments this season and now we are better but it doesn't mean anything tomorrow."&nbsp;

Zidane raised the possibility of Eden Hazard being involved in the first leg in Madrid on Tuesday, even though the Belgian has missed the last three weeks with a pelvic injury. Hazard trained at Valdebebas on Monday morning.&nbsp;

"We have talked a lot about this, Hazard has to be calm. The important thing is that he has recovered," said Zidane. "If the player is well, I want him with the team. We are going to do things little by little and we'll see what happens."&nbsp;

Madrid will be without their captain Sergio Ramos, who injured his calf on international duty last month with Spain.&nbsp;

Ramos played a key role as Real Madrid beat Liverpool in the Champions League final in 2018, after his challenge forced Mohamed Salah to be substituted in the first half. &nbsp;

"I know Sergio, he is a teammate, a friend," said Madrid defender Nacho Fernandez. "It's a shame, nobody likes to be injured in moments as important as this and even more so when you know Sergio, who is the captain.&nbsp;

"I'm sure that not just Salah but everyone from Liverpool will want to take revenge and win the game, just like us."&nbsp;

Liverpool bounced back from their defeat in Kiev by winning the Champions League and Premier League over the next two seasons but, like Madrid, they have wavered since, falling behind Bayern Munich and Manchester City.&nbsp;

"We don't think about the past," said Zidane. "It's a big game for them and it's a different game from the final in Kiev. We're preparing for a different game."&nbsp;

"We are at a club where every day, every minute we live with pressure," added Nacho. "We know how to handle it, we try to use it in the best possible way, which is to lift a trophy at the end of the season."&nbsp;

Zinedine Zidane believes Real Madrid are being underrated ahead of the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final against Liverpool on Tuesday. Madrid have endured a patchy season but remain alive in the Champions League and La Liga, with the gap to Atletico Madrid down to three points with nine games left.

Zinedine Zidane believes Real Madrid are being underrated ahead of the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final against Liverpool on Tuesday. Madrid have endured a patchy season but remain alive in the Champions League and La Liga, with the gap to Atletico Madrid down to three points with nine games left. And if they can overcome Liverpool, they will have a semi-final to come against either Chelsea or Porto and be within sight of a 14th European triumph. "I think my team has been underestimated," said Zidane in a press conference on Monday. "I trust my team a lot and I know what it can give. But we can't change what people think. We can only work day by day and while there is still a chance, we never give up. "We are going to fight for everything. We have had difficult moments this season and now we are better but it doesn't mean anything tomorrow." Zidane raised the possibility of Eden Hazard being involved in the first leg in Madrid on Tuesday, even though the Belgian has missed the last three weeks with a pelvic injury. Hazard trained at Valdebebas on Monday morning. "We have talked a lot about this, Hazard has to be calm. The important thing is that he has recovered," said Zidane. "If the player is well, I want him with the team. We are going to do things little by little and we'll see what happens." Madrid will be without their captain Sergio Ramos, who injured his calf on international duty last month with Spain. Ramos played a key role as Real Madrid beat Liverpool in the Champions League final in 2018, after his challenge forced Mohamed Salah to be substituted in the first half. "I know Sergio, he is a teammate, a friend," said Madrid defender Nacho Fernandez. "It's a shame, nobody likes to be injured in moments as important as this and even more so when you know Sergio, who is the captain. "I'm sure that not just Salah but everyone from Liverpool will want to take revenge and win the game, just like us." Liverpool bounced back from their defeat in Kiev by winning the Champions League and Premier League over the next two seasons but, like Madrid, they have wavered since, falling behind Bayern Munich and Manchester City. "We don't think about the past," said Zidane. "It's a big game for them and it's a different game from the final in Kiev. We're preparing for a different game." "We are at a club where every day, every minute we live with pressure," added Nacho. "We know how to handle it, we try to use it in the best possible way, which is to lift a trophy at the end of the season."

Zidane: Nobody should write off Real Madrid

The Maharashtra government on Monday paved the way for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 to take place in the COVID-19-struck Mumbai while allowing teams to practice after 8pm and travel back to their respective hotels during the night curfew that has been imposed to curb the spread of the dreaded virus. <o:p></o:p>

Due to a record surge of COVID-19 cases in Mumbai and Maharashtra, the state government on Sunday announced night curfew&nbsp;from 8pm to 7am on weekdays under their ‘Break the Chain’ initiative. The guidelines are to be implemented from this evening.<o:p></o:p>

However, the state government has exempted IPL teams from their latest announcement while allowing them to practice beyond 8 pm, provided there is "strict adherence to bio-bubble". The IPL 2021 starts in Chennai on April 9.<o:p></o:p>

"Considering the match-timings, teams practicing at the CCI and MCA are scheduled to practice in 2 sessions -- from 4pm to 6.30pm and 7.30pm to 10pm," wrote Srirang Gholap, Under Secretary of the Disaster Management, Relief and Rehabilitation department, in a letter issued to the BCCI.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-super-league-6-bio-secure-bubble-was-compromised-on-several-occasions-pcb-375525" hreflang="en">Pakistan Super League 6 bio-secure bubble was compromised on several occasions: PCB</a>

Mumbai is due to host 10 IPL 2021 matches at the Wankhede Stadium and nine of them are to start at 7:30 pm. The first game at the Wankhede is due on April 10 between Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals.<o:p></o:p>

Mumbai recorded more than 11,000 COVID-19 cases on Sunday.<o:p></o:p>

"...permission has been requested for teams and the IPL staff (to) be allowed to practice inside the grounds after 8pm and they may be allowed free movement from the ground to their respective hotels after the said time.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/im-not-batting-today-ricky-ponting-opens-up-on-prithvi-shaws-refusal-to-train-during-ipl-2020-375517" hreflang="en">'I'm not batting today': Ricky Ponting opens up on Prithvi Shaw's refusal to train during IPL 2020</a>

"Accordingly, permission is being hereby accorded for the said request subject to scrupulous adherence to the bio-bubble," stated the letter, according to PTI.<o:p></o:p>

In a related development and a major relief to the Mumbai Cricket Association, it is learnt that most of the Wankhede's 10 ground-staff members, who had earlier tested positive for the virus, have now tested negative.<o:p></o:p>

(From PTI inputs)<o:p></o:p>

The Maharashtra government on Monday paved the way for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 to take place in the COVID-19-struck Mumbai while allowing teams to practice after 8pm and travel back to their respective hotels during the night curfew that has been imposed to curb the spread of the dreaded virus.

The Maharashtra government on Monday paved the way for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 to take place in the COVID-19-struck Mumbai while allowing teams to practice after 8pm and travel back to their respective hotels during the night curfew that has been imposed to curb the spread of the dreaded virus. Due to a record surge of COVID-19 cases in Mumbai and Maharashtra, the state government on Sunday announced night curfew from 8pm to 7am on weekdays under their ‘Break the Chain’ initiative. The guidelines are to be implemented from this evening. However, the state government has exempted IPL teams from their latest announcement while allowing them to practice beyond 8 pm, provided there is "strict adherence to bio-bubble". The IPL 2021 starts in Chennai on April 9. "Considering the match-timings, teams practicing at the CCI and MCA are scheduled to practice in 2 sessions -- from 4pm to 6.30pm and 7.30pm to 10pm," wrote Srirang Gholap, Under Secretary of the Disaster Management, Relief and Rehabilitation department, in a letter issued to the BCCI. ALSO READ: Pakistan Super League 6 bio-secure bubble was compromised on several occasions: PCB Mumbai is due to host 10 IPL 2021 matches at the Wankhede Stadium and nine of them are to start at 7:30 pm. The first game at the Wankhede is due on April 10 between Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals. Mumbai recorded more than 11,000 COVID-19 cases on Sunday. "...permission has been requested for teams and the IPL staff (to) be allowed to practice inside the grounds after 8pm and they may be allowed free movement from the ground to their respective hotels after the said time. ALSO READ: 'I'm not batting today': Ricky Ponting opens up on Prithvi Shaw's refusal to train during IPL 2020 "Accordingly, permission is being hereby accorded for the said request subject to scrupulous adherence to the bio-bubble," stated the letter, according to PTI. In a related development and a major relief to the Mumbai Cricket Association, it is learnt that most of the Wankhede's 10 ground-staff members, who had earlier tested positive for the virus, have now tested negative. (From PTI inputs)

Maharashtra government clears deck for IPL, allows franchises to practice after 8pm at Wankhede Stadium

An independent fact-finding committee of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has confirmed that the bio-secure bubble for Pakistan Super League (PSL 6) was compromised on several occasions and the protocols were broken during the course of the tournament.<o:p></o:p>

The two-member committee of COVID-19 experts was established by the PCB to investigate the PSL 6 bio-bubble and what went wrong during the T20 tournament.<o:p></o:p>

The final report by Dr Syed Faisal Mahmood and Dr Salma Muhammad Abbas was submitted to the PCB chairman Ehsan Mani on March 31 with the report stating that the PSL 6 bubble was compromised several times.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/leave-qdk-alone-tabraiz-shamsi-jumps-in-de-kocks-defence-after-controversial-fakhar-zaman-run-out-375500" hreflang="en">'Leave QDK alone': Tabraiz Shamsi jumps in de Kock's defence after controversial Fakhar Zaman run-out</a>

The PCB chief is now expected to go through the report and share the details with other PCB board members before a final call is taken on the matter.<o:p></o:p>

However, media reports from Pakistan has said that the findings of the committee didn’t blame any individual but confirmed that the bio-secure bubble was compromised on several occasions in Karachi.<o:p></o:p>

The report also said that the independent committee made recommendations on how the PCB can ensure a safe bio-secure bubble for PSL 6 when the tournament resumes in June.<o:p></o:p>

The PSL 6 was postponed mid-way by the PCB in March following rising in COVID-19 cases. Some of the foreigners and local players along with officials had tested positive for the dreaded coronavirus.<o:p></o:p>

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/what-does-crickets-law-book-say-on-fakhar-zaman-quinton-de-kock-run-out-incident-375466" hreflang="en">What does cricket’s law book say on Fakhar Zaman-Quinton de Kock run-out incident?</a>

Notably, the report said that the experts had called in PCB officials about breaches during the PSL 6 but the authorities didn’t respond in time.<o:p></o:p>

The PCB has said it would take action against those found to be responsible for breaching the protocols.<o:p></o:p>

Dr Sohail Saleem, head of the PCB's medical and sports sciences department, had resigned after the PSL was postponed on March 4.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

An independent fact-finding committee of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has confirmed that the bio-secure bubble for Pakistan Super League (PSL 6) was compromised on several occasions and the protocols were broken during the course of the tournament.

An independent fact-finding committee of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has confirmed that the bio-secure bubble for Pakistan Super League (PSL 6) was compromised on several occasions and the protocols were broken during the course of the tournament. The two-member committee of COVID-19 experts was established by the PCB to investigate the PSL 6 bio-bubble and what went wrong during the T20 tournament. The final report by Dr Syed Faisal Mahmood and Dr Salma Muhammad Abbas was submitted to the PCB chairman Ehsan Mani on March 31 with the report stating that the PSL 6 bubble was compromised several times. ALSO READ: 'Leave QDK alone': Tabraiz Shamsi jumps in de Kock's defence after controversial Fakhar Zaman run-out The PCB chief is now expected to go through the report and share the details with other PCB board members before a final call is taken on the matter. However, media reports from Pakistan has said that the findings of the committee didn’t blame any individual but confirmed that the bio-secure bubble was compromised on several occasions in Karachi. The report also said that the independent committee made recommendations on how the PCB can ensure a safe bio-secure bubble for PSL 6 when the tournament resumes in June. The PSL 6 was postponed mid-way by the PCB in March following rising in COVID-19 cases. Some of the foreigners and local players along with officials had tested positive for the dreaded coronavirus. ALSO READ: What does cricket’s law book say on Fakhar Zaman-Quinton de Kock run-out incident? Notably, the report said that the experts had called in PCB officials about breaches during the PSL 6 but the authorities didn’t respond in time. The PCB has said it would take action against those found to be responsible for breaching the protocols. Dr Sohail Saleem, head of the PCB's medical and sports sciences department, had resigned after the PSL was postponed on March 4.

Pakistan Super League 6 bio-secure bubble was compromised on several occasions: PCB

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly on Sunday provided an update on the schedule of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 amid a spike in COVID-19 cases in India. The IPL 2021 is scheduled to commence on April 9 but with India registering over 1 lakh coronavirus cases, questions were raised whether IPL 2021 would go ahead as per schedule. Ganguly has now cleared the air regarding the doubts.

Ganguly’s comments come after the Maharashtra government announced weekend lockdown to curb the spread of the dreaded COVID-19.&nbsp;

"Everything will go on as per schedule," Ganguly told ANI.&nbsp;

Maharashtra is set to undergo strict weekend lockdown from Friday 8pm to Monday 7 am, said state Cabinet Minister Nawab Malik adding that essential services and basic transportation such as buses, trains and taxis will be allowed. 
Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium is to host 10 IPL 2021 matches from April 10-25 with the first match scheduled to be played on April 10 between Delhi Capitals and three-time winners Chennai Super Kings.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/what-does-crickets-law-book-say-on-fakhar-zaman-quinton-de-kock-run-out-incident-375466" hreflang="en">What does cricket’s law book say on Fakhar Zaman-Quinton de Kock run-out incident?</a>

Four franchises -- Delhi Capitals, Mumbai Indians, Punjab Kings, and Rajasthan Royals have set up their base in Mumbai as of now. Whereas the fifth Mumbai-based franchise Kolkata Knight Riders will move to Chennai after playing their season opener against SunRisers Hyderabad on April 11.

The BCCI is also mulling players’ vaccination ahead of the showpiece T20 tournament. The BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla has said that the board will get in touch with the Health Ministry for players' vaccination.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-rajeev-shukla-confident-that-tournament-will-go-ahead-without-any-problem-375327" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Rajeev Shukla confident that tournament will go ahead 'without any problem'</a>

"In order to cope with this coronavirus rise, I think the only solution is to get vaccinated. BCCI is also thinking on those lines that players should be vaccinated. Nobody knows when coronavirus is going to end and you can't give a deadline that by this time frame, it will not be there so players can play easily. So, I think now will have to think over that. Vaccination should be done for the players also," Shukla told ANI.&nbsp;

IPL 2021 is set to start from April 9 with RCB taking on MI in the season opener in Chennai.

<o:p></o:p>

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly on Sunday provided an update on the schedule of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 amid a spike in COVID-19 cases in India.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly on Sunday provided an update on the schedule of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 amid a spike in COVID-19 cases in India. The IPL 2021 is scheduled to commence on April 9 but with India registering over 1 lakh coronavirus cases, questions were raised whether IPL 2021 would go ahead as per schedule. Ganguly has now cleared the air regarding the doubts. Ganguly’s comments come after the Maharashtra government announced weekend lockdown to curb the spread of the dreaded COVID-19. "Everything will go on as per schedule," Ganguly told ANI. Maharashtra is set to undergo strict weekend lockdown from Friday 8pm to Monday 7 am, said state Cabinet Minister Nawab Malik adding that essential services and basic transportation such as buses, trains and taxis will be allowed. Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium is to host 10 IPL 2021 matches from April 10-25 with the first match scheduled to be played on April 10 between Delhi Capitals and three-time winners Chennai Super Kings. ALSO READ: What does cricket’s law book say on Fakhar Zaman-Quinton de Kock run-out incident? Four franchises -- Delhi Capitals, Mumbai Indians, Punjab Kings, and Rajasthan Royals have set up their base in Mumbai as of now. Whereas the fifth Mumbai-based franchise Kolkata Knight Riders will move to Chennai after playing their season opener against SunRisers Hyderabad on April 11. The BCCI is also mulling players’ vaccination ahead of the showpiece T20 tournament. The BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla has said that the board will get in touch with the Health Ministry for players' vaccination. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Rajeev Shukla confident that tournament will go ahead 'without any problem' "In order to cope with this coronavirus rise, I think the only solution is to get vaccinated. BCCI is also thinking on those lines that players should be vaccinated. Nobody knows when coronavirus is going to end and you can't give a deadline that by this time frame, it will not be there so players can play easily. So, I think now will have to think over that. Vaccination should be done for the players also," Shukla told ANI. IPL 2021 is set to start from April 9 with RCB taking on MI in the season opener in Chennai.

BCCI president Sourav Ganguly provides update on IPL 2021 scheduling amid spike in COVID-19 cases

Delhi Capitals coach and former Australian skipper Ricky Ponting on Monday revealed that Prithvi Shaw refused to bat at nets when he was going through a torrid run of form during Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 in the UAE while hoping that the youngster has changed his training approach ahead of IPL 2021, scheduled to start from April 9.

While Shaw averaged just 17.53 in 13 matches during IPL 2020, the youngster has roared back to form during the Indian domestic season in 2021.&nbsp;

Ponting has said that he tried to help Shaw out with his technical frailties with the bat but added that the youngster didn’t want to bat at nets when he was completely out of form during IPL 2020 as he said he couldn’t really work that theory out.

TRENDING:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-thala-ms-dhoni-unleashes-monstrous-sixes-at-csk-nets-ahead-of-ipl-2021-375510" hreflang="en">Watch: 'Thala' MS Dhoni unleashes monstrous sixes at CSK nets ahead of IPL 2021</a>

"I've tried (taking Shaw under his wing) the last two years and I've really enjoyed working with him," Ponting told cricket.com.au before departing for India. "I've had some really interesting chats with him through last year's IPL, just trying to break him down, trying to find out exactly what was the right way to coach him and how I was going to get the best out of him.

"But he had an interesting theory on his batting last year – when he's not scoring runs, he won't bat, and when he is scoring runs, he wants to keep batting all the time.

"He had four or five games where he made under 10 and I'm telling him, 'We have to go to the nets and work out (what's wrong)', and he looked me in the eye and said, 'No, I'm not batting today'.

"I couldn't really work that out.

"He might have changed. I know he's done a lot of work over the last few months, that theory that he had might have changed, and hopefully it has, because if we can get the best out of him, he could be a superstar player."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-president-sourav-ganguly-provides-update-on-ipl-2021-scheduling-amid-spike-in-covid-19-cases-375485" hreflang="en">BCCI president Sourav Ganguly provides update on IPL 2021 scheduling amid spike in COVID-19 cases</a>

With Delhi Capitals skipper Shreyas Iyer out of IPL 2021 due to shoulder injury, DC would hope that Shaw fires all cylinders with the willow. In the Vijay Hazare Trophy, Shaw hammered a staggering 827 runs including four centuries in eight innings. The change in form came after the Test tour of Australia, where he was dropped after the opening Test. Shaw had admitted that he felt "worthless" and suffered the "saddest day of my life" when he got the news of losing his spot.

"I was going pretty hard at him," said the former Australia captain. "I was basically telling him, 'Mate you've got to get in the nets. Whatever you think you're working on, is not working for you'."

"It's my job as a coach to challenge someone's preparation if they're not getting results. So I challenged him and he stuck to his word and he didn't practice much at all towards the back-end of the tournament, and didn't get many runs towards the back-end of the tournament either."

Shaw’s batting technique was scrutinized by many including the likes of Sachin Tendulkar and Ponting, who believes Shaw has the ability to become a superstar. Ponting further said that he hasn’t seen many more talented players than Shaw in his entire career.

"Maybe (his training habits) have changed for the better, because (his success) won't just be for the Delhi Capitals, I'm sure you'll see him play a lot of cricket for India as well in the coming years," said Ponting.

"He's diminutive … in the (Sachin) Tendulkar sort of mould but hits the ball incredibly powerfully off front and back foot, and plays spin really well.

"If we can get him to take that form that he's just shown into the IPL, it just makes the balance on our Delhi Capital side so good.

"If (the penny) does drop – I'm not sure I've seen many more talented players than him in my whole time of playing the game."

Delhi Capitals coach and former Australian skipper Ricky Ponting on Monday revealed that Prithvi Shaw refused to bat at nets when he was going through a torrid run of form during Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 in the UAE while hoping that the youngster has changed his training approach ahead of IPL 2021, scheduled to start from April 9.

Delhi Capitals coach and former Australian skipper Ricky Ponting on Monday revealed that Prithvi Shaw refused to bat at nets when he was going through a torrid run of form during Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 in the UAE while hoping that the youngster has changed his training approach ahead of IPL 2021, scheduled to start from April 9. While Shaw averaged just 17.53 in 13 matches during IPL 2020, the youngster has roared back to form during the Indian domestic season in 2021. Ponting has said that he tried to help Shaw out with his technical frailties with the bat but added that the youngster didn’t want to bat at nets when he was completely out of form during IPL 2020 as he said he couldn’t really work that theory out. TRENDING: Watch: 'Thala' MS Dhoni unleashes monstrous sixes at CSK nets ahead of IPL 2021 "I've tried (taking Shaw under his wing) the last two years and I've really enjoyed working with him," Ponting told cricket.com.au before departing for India. "I've had some really interesting chats with him through last year's IPL, just trying to break him down, trying to find out exactly what was the right way to coach him and how I was going to get the best out of him. "But he had an interesting theory on his batting last year – when he's not scoring runs, he won't bat, and when he is scoring runs, he wants to keep batting all the time. "He had four or five games where he made under 10 and I'm telling him, 'We have to go to the nets and work out (what's wrong)', and he looked me in the eye and said, 'No, I'm not batting today'. "I couldn't really work that out. "He might have changed. I know he's done a lot of work over the last few months, that theory that he had might have changed, and hopefully it has, because if we can get the best out of him, he could be a superstar player." ALSO READ: BCCI president Sourav Ganguly provides update on IPL 2021 scheduling amid spike in COVID-19 cases With Delhi Capitals skipper Shreyas Iyer out of IPL 2021 due to shoulder injury, DC would hope that Shaw fires all cylinders with the willow. In the Vijay Hazare Trophy, Shaw hammered a staggering 827 runs including four centuries in eight innings. The change in form came after the Test tour of Australia, where he was dropped after the opening Test. Shaw had admitted that he felt "worthless" and suffered the "saddest day of my life" when he got the news of losing his spot. "I was going pretty hard at him," said the former Australia captain. "I was basically telling him, 'Mate you've got to get in the nets. Whatever you think you're working on, is not working for you'." "It's my job as a coach to challenge someone's preparation if they're not getting results. So I challenged him and he stuck to his word and he didn't practice much at all towards the back-end of the tournament, and didn't get many runs towards the back-end of the tournament either." Shaw’s batting technique was scrutinized by many including the likes of Sachin Tendulkar and Ponting, who believes Shaw has the ability to become a superstar. Ponting further said that he hasn’t seen many more talented players than Shaw in his entire career. "Maybe (his training habits) have changed for the better, because (his success) won't just be for the Delhi Capitals, I'm sure you'll see him play a lot of cricket for India as well in the coming years," said Ponting. "He's diminutive … in the (Sachin) Tendulkar sort of mould but hits the ball incredibly powerfully off front and back foot, and plays spin really well. "If we can get him to take that form that he's just shown into the IPL, it just makes the balance on our Delhi Capital side so good. "If (the penny) does drop – I'm not sure I've seen many more talented players than him in my whole time of playing the game."

'I'm not batting today': Ricky Ponting opens up on Prithvi Shaw's refusal to train during IPL 2020

Chennai Super Kings skipper MS Dhoni has been sweating hard ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. While Dhoni started his preparation for the showpiece T20 tournament in the month of March, the former Indian captain has been looking in brilliant touch with the willow ahead of IPL 2021. On Monday, CSK shared a video of Dhoni where the veteran is seen smashing sixes at will. <o:p></o:p>

CSK on Monday shared a video on Instagram where Dhoni was seen hammering sixes all around the park. CSK captioned the video: “Thala Paraak fully loaded! #WhistlePodu #Yellove” <o:p></o:p>

In the video, there was a compilation of Dhoni’s huge sixes with the CSK captain stealing the thunders by appearing in the second half.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-president-sourav-ganguly-provides-update-on-ipl-2021-scheduling-amid-spike-in-covid-19-cases-375485" hreflang="en">BCCI president Sourav Ganguly provides update on IPL 2021 scheduling amid spike in COVID-19 cases</a>

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After a disastrous outing in IPL 2020 in the UAE, Dhoni and co would be itching to put the record straight by once again fighting for the playoffs spot. Even Dhoni had a tough IPL 2020 where he managed just 200 runs in 14 matches. CSK failed to make the playoffs in IPL 2020 – the first time in their history – as they finished second last in the standings with 12 points in 14 matches.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/what-does-crickets-law-book-say-on-fakhar-zaman-quinton-de-kock-run-out-incident-375466" hreflang="en">What does cricket’s law book say on Fakhar Zaman-Quinton de Kock run-out incident?</a>

<o:p></o:p>

Ahead of IPL 2021, CSK made changes to their squad and signed up all-rounders Moeen Ali and Krishnappa Gowtham while also roping in experienced campaigners such as Cheteshwar Pujara and Robin Uthappa.<o:p></o:p>&nbsp;CSK will also witness the return of Suresh Raina – who missed the 13th edition of IPL due to personal reasons.<o:p></o:p>

CSK commence their IPL 2021 campaign against Delhi Capitals on April 10 in Mumbai.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

Chennai Super Kings skipper MS Dhoni has been sweating hard ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. While Dhoni started his preparation for the showpiece T20 tournament in the month of March, the former Indian captain has been looking in brilliant touch with the willow ahead of IPL 2021.

Chennai Super Kings skipper MS Dhoni has been sweating hard ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. While Dhoni started his preparation for the showpiece T20 tournament in the month of March, the former Indian captain has been looking in brilliant touch with the willow ahead of IPL 2021. On Monday, CSK shared a video of Dhoni where the veteran is seen smashing sixes at will. CSK on Monday shared a video on Instagram where Dhoni was seen hammering sixes all around the park. CSK captioned the video: “Thala Paraak fully loaded! #WhistlePodu #Yellove” In the video, there was a compilation of Dhoni’s huge sixes with the CSK captain stealing the thunders by appearing in the second half. ALSO READ: BCCI president Sourav Ganguly provides update on IPL 2021 scheduling amid spike in COVID-19 cases View this post on Instagram A post shared by Chennai Super Kings (@chennaiipl) × After a disastrous outing in IPL 2020 in the UAE, Dhoni and co would be itching to put the record straight by once again fighting for the playoffs spot. Even Dhoni had a tough IPL 2020 where he managed just 200 runs in 14 matches. CSK failed to make the playoffs in IPL 2020 – the first time in their history – as they finished second last in the standings with 12 points in 14 matches. ALSO READ: What does cricket’s law book say on Fakhar Zaman-Quinton de Kock run-out incident? Ahead of IPL 2021, CSK made changes to their squad and signed up all-rounders Moeen Ali and Krishnappa Gowtham while also roping in experienced campaigners such as Cheteshwar Pujara and Robin Uthappa. CSK will also witness the return of Suresh Raina – who missed the 13th edition of IPL due to personal reasons. CSK commence their IPL 2021 campaign against Delhi Capitals on April 10 in Mumbai.

Watch: 'Thala' MS Dhoni unleashes monstrous sixes at CSK nets ahead of IPL 2021

South Africa spinner Tabraiz Shamsi on Monday jumped to the defence of wicketkeeper-batsman Quinton de Kock following the controversial incident involving Fakhar Zaman during the second ODI between Pakistan and South Africa in Johannesburg. <o:p></o:p>

Shamsi took to Twitter to clarify that de Kock was asking a fielder to back-up the non-striker’s end and the Proteas glovesman was not pointing towards Fakhar.<o:p></o:p>

A direct hit from long-off, by Aiden Markram, ended Zaman’s knock of 193 off 155 deliveries as Pakistan fell 17-run short of South Africa’s 341/6 in 50 overs. While completing the second run, Fakhar reckoned that the throw was directed towards the non-striker’s end and slowed down. <o:p></o:p>

“Just 2 [to] clarify. QDK [Quinton de Kock] was NOT speaking 2 or pointing at the batsman, he was asking a fielder to back up at the non-strikers end,” said Shamsi<o:p></o:p>

“Not Quinnys fault the batman turned around 2 see instead of completing the run safely which he should have done. Stop the hate n [and] leave QDK alone,” he added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-president-sourav-ganguly-provides-update-on-ipl-2021-scheduling-amid-spike-in-covid-19-cases-375485" hreflang="en">BCCI president Sourav Ganguly provides update on IPL 2021 scheduling amid spike in COVID-19 cases</a>

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So it's not funny that the batsman stopped running instead of completing the run? 
 
Lets not take the attention away from a great innings that he played and give him credit for that 
 
The batman's job in that instance was to complete the run that all... 
 
As simple as that :)
— Tabraiz Shamsi (@shamsi90) <a href="https://twitter.com/shamsi90/status/1378999613462548480?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Shamsi also stated that Zaman should have completed the run rather than stopping midway through. The chinaman bowler praised Fakhar for his fantastic knock and gave credit to him for playing the blinder.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/what-does-crickets-law-book-say-on-fakhar-zaman-quinton-de-kock-run-out-incident-375466" hreflang="en">What does cricket’s law book say on Fakhar Zaman-Quinton de Kock run-out incident?</a>

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“So it’s not funny that the batsman stopped running instead of completing the run? Let’s not take the attention away from a great innings that he [Fakhar Zaman] played and give him credit for that. The batman's job in that instance was to complete the run that all...As simple as that :),” he concluded.<o:p></o:p>

With the three-ODI series poised at 1-1, both South Africa and Pakistan would aim to win the series decider on Wednesday in Centurion.<o:p></o:p>

South Africa spinner Tabraiz Shamsi on Monday jumped to the defence of wicketkeeper-batsman Quinton de Kock following the controversial incident involving Fakhar Zaman during the second ODI between Pakistan and South Africa in Johannesburg.

South Africa spinner Tabraiz Shamsi on Monday jumped to the defence of wicketkeeper-batsman Quinton de Kock following the controversial incident involving Fakhar Zaman during the second ODI between Pakistan and South Africa in Johannesburg. Shamsi took to Twitter to clarify that de Kock was asking a fielder to back-up the non-striker’s end and the Proteas glovesman was not pointing towards Fakhar. A direct hit from long-off, by Aiden Markram, ended Zaman’s knock of 193 off 155 deliveries as Pakistan fell 17-run short of South Africa’s 341/6 in 50 overs. While completing the second run, Fakhar reckoned that the throw was directed towards the non-striker’s end and slowed down. “Just 2 [to] clarify. QDK [Quinton de Kock] was NOT speaking 2 or pointing at the batsman, he was asking a fielder to back up at the non-strikers end,” said Shamsi “Not Quinnys fault the batman turned around 2 see instead of completing the run safely which he should have done. Stop the hate n [and] leave QDK alone,” he added. ALSO READ: BCCI president Sourav Ganguly provides update on IPL 2021 scheduling amid spike in COVID-19 cases So it's not funny that the batsman stopped running instead of completing the run? Lets not take the attention away from a great innings that he played and give him credit for that The batman's job in that instance was to complete the run that all... As simple as that :) — Tabraiz Shamsi (@shamsi90) April 5, 2021 × Shamsi also stated that Zaman should have completed the run rather than stopping midway through. The chinaman bowler praised Fakhar for his fantastic knock and gave credit to him for playing the blinder. ALSO READ: What does cricket’s law book say on Fakhar Zaman-Quinton de Kock run-out incident? “So it’s not funny that the batsman stopped running instead of completing the run? Let’s not take the attention away from a great innings that he [Fakhar Zaman] played and give him credit for that. The batman's job in that instance was to complete the run that all...As simple as that :),” he concluded. With the three-ODI series poised at 1-1, both South Africa and Pakistan would aim to win the series decider on Wednesday in Centurion.

'Leave QDK alone': Tabraiz Shamsi jumps in de Kock's defence after controversial Fakhar Zaman run-out

Controversy erupted during the second ODI between South Africa and Pakistan as fans and pundits accused Proteas wicket-keeper Quinton de Kock of breaking the 'spirit of the game' following Fakhar Zaman’s run-out at the score of 193 on Sunday.<o:p></o:p>

Fakhar was playing the knock of his life and almost took Pakistan over the winning line with his sensational knock of 193 runs against South Africa. While wickets kept tumbling at one end, Fakhar kept visitors’ hopes alive as he continued to hammer the Proteas bowlers. <o:p></o:p>

However, the southpaw was sent back to the pavilion after Aiden Markram’s direct hit from long-off. &nbsp;Fakhar slowed down and looked back at the striker’s end only to see the stumps at his end disturbed by a direct hit as he was left disappointed for not taking his team home in the thrilling match.

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de kock with the perfect dummy <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvPAK</a> <a href="https://t.co/wkN8floMMd">pic.twitter.com/wkN8floMMd</a>
— kεz (@realkez) <a href="https://twitter.com/realkez/status/1378742812104142848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 4, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Some of the fans and pundits lashed out at de Kock for breaking the spirit of the game following the run-out. Here's how they reacted:&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fakhars-193-in-vain-as-south-africa-beat-pakistan-by-17-runs-375457" hreflang="en">Fakhar's 193 in vain as South Africa beat Pakistan by 17 runs</a>

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The more I see this the more I dislike the obvious deception. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvPAK</a> <a href="https://t.co/Slx7LwsJv6">https://t.co/Slx7LwsJv6</a>
— Alan Wilkins (@alanwilkins22) <a href="https://twitter.com/alanwilkins22/status/1378765770998509568?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 4, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Question ❓❓❓ 
is De kock allowed to do cheating As per the the rules of <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ICC</a> 
Seriously i don't know but I shocked Please don't do that with gentleman game cricket🙏🏾👎🏾<a href="https://twitter.com/QuinnyDeKock69?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@QuinnyDeKock69</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/FakharZamanLive?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FakharZamanLive</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PakvRSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PakvRSA</a> <a href="https://t.co/gPQ2IxGE3a">pic.twitter.com/gPQ2IxGE3a</a>
— Sherfane Rutherford (@SRutherford50) <a href="https://twitter.com/SRutherford50/status/1378757675933122562?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 4, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Fully convinced that this is against 41.5.1. Wonder what <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ICC</a>’s reaction would have been had this happened in a match involving big three teams. 
 
<a href="https://t.co/L8EpxfODQh">pic.twitter.com/L8EpxfODQh</a>
— Faizan Lakhani (@faizanlakhani) <a href="https://twitter.com/faizanlakhani/status/1378758709308968964?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 4, 2021</a></blockquote>
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With wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock seemingly gesturing for Aiden Markram to throw to the bowler's end, Fakhar slowed down and was surprised when the ball hit the stumps at the batsman's end when he was a metre or more short, ending his bold counter-attack.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p></o:p>

Fakhar admitted he was taken by surprise by his dismissal. "I was looking at Haris Rauf because I thought the run-out would be at his end. It was my own fault," he said at the post-match press conference.<o:p></o:p>

The on-air commentators after the incident questioned how fair was de Kock’s action during the course of the run-out as they asked whether cricket’s law book allowed the incident.

<o:p></o:p>

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-rajeev-shukla-confident-that-tournament-will-go-ahead-without-any-problem-375327" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Rajeev Shukla confident that tournament will go ahead 'without any problem'</a>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">What does cricket’s law book say on Fakhar Zaman-Quinton de Kock run-out incident?<o:p></o:p></h2>

Law 41.5.1 states that "it is unfair for any fielder wilfully to attempt, by word or action, to distract, deceive or obstruct either batsman after the striker has received the ball", meaning Pakistan would have been awarded five penalty runs had the umpires deemed de Kock's actions to be deliberate deception.<o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, with the win, South Africa levelled the three-match series and would be looking to clinch the rubber when they take on Pakistan in the decider on Wednesday in Centurion.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

Controversy erupted during the second ODI between South Africa and Pakistan as fans and pundits accused Proteas wicket-keeper Quinton de Kock of breaking the 'spirit of the game' following Fakhar Zaman’s run-out at the score of 193 on Sunday.

Controversy erupted during the second ODI between South Africa and Pakistan as fans and pundits accused Proteas wicket-keeper Quinton de Kock of breaking the 'spirit of the game' following Fakhar Zaman’s run-out at the score of 193 on Sunday. Fakhar was playing the knock of his life and almost took Pakistan over the winning line with his sensational knock of 193 runs against South Africa. While wickets kept tumbling at one end, Fakhar kept visitors’ hopes alive as he continued to hammer the Proteas bowlers. However, the southpaw was sent back to the pavilion after Aiden Markram’s direct hit from long-off. Fakhar slowed down and looked back at the striker’s end only to see the stumps at his end disturbed by a direct hit as he was left disappointed for not taking his team home in the thrilling match. de kock with the perfect dummy #SAvPAK pic.twitter.com/wkN8floMMd — kεz (@realkez) April 4, 2021 × Some of the fans and pundits lashed out at de Kock for breaking the spirit of the game following the run-out. Here's how they reacted: ALSO READ: Fakhar's 193 in vain as South Africa beat Pakistan by 17 runs The more I see this the more I dislike the obvious deception. #SAvPAK https://t.co/Slx7LwsJv6 — Alan Wilkins (@alanwilkins22) April 4, 2021 × Question ❓❓❓ is De kock allowed to do cheating As per the the rules of @ICC Seriously i don't know but I shocked Please don't do that with gentleman game cricket🙏🏾👎🏾@QuinnyDeKock69 @FakharZamanLive#PakvRSA pic.twitter.com/gPQ2IxGE3a — Sherfane Rutherford (@SRutherford50) April 4, 2021 × Fully convinced that this is against 41.5.1. Wonder what @ICC’s reaction would have been had this happened in a match involving big three teams. pic.twitter.com/L8EpxfODQh — Faizan Lakhani (@faizanlakhani) April 4, 2021 × With wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock seemingly gesturing for Aiden Markram to throw to the bowler's end, Fakhar slowed down and was surprised when the ball hit the stumps at the batsman's end when he was a metre or more short, ending his bold counter-attack. Fakhar admitted he was taken by surprise by his dismissal. "I was looking at Haris Rauf because I thought the run-out would be at his end. It was my own fault," he said at the post-match press conference. The on-air commentators after the incident questioned how fair was de Kock’s action during the course of the run-out as they asked whether cricket’s law book allowed the incident. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Rajeev Shukla confident that tournament will go ahead 'without any problem' What does cricket’s law book say on Fakhar Zaman-Quinton de Kock run-out incident? Law 41.5.1 states that "it is unfair for any fielder wilfully to attempt, by word or action, to distract, deceive or obstruct either batsman after the striker has received the ball", meaning Pakistan would have been awarded five penalty runs had the umpires deemed de Kock's actions to be deliberate deception. Meanwhile, with the win, South Africa levelled the three-match series and would be looking to clinch the rubber when they take on Pakistan in the decider on Wednesday in Centurion.

What does cricket’s law book say on Fakhar Zaman-Quinton de Kock run-out incident?

Sergio Aguero is "irreplaceable in the souls, in the hearts, in the minds of our fans," Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has said of the club's record goalscorer who is to leave at the end of the season.

Aguero joined City from Atletico Madrid in 2011, three years after the club was taken over by Abu Dhabi owners, and will leave after 10 trophy-laden years, with 257 goals in 384 games so far.

Guardiola said 32-year-old Aguero's goals tally could be surpassed one day, but what he means to the club was unique.

"Sergio is irreplaceable," said Guardiola.

"I could say in terms of numbers he can be replaceable, it's not easy when you see more than 360 games played and more than 250 goals, the amount of titles (he has won).

"So it's the legend, the best striker this club has ever had for this century through the years, but is irreplaceable in the souls, in the hearts, in the minds of our fans, of our people, of the players that played alongside him and all the managers who worked with him."

Guardiola said he felt blessed when he took over as manager in 2016 to have such stalwarts as Aguero at the club.

"We were so lucky, the guys who came after him -- me as a manager for example," he said.

"We took over the club and he was one of the guys like Joe Hart, Pablo Zabaleta, Vincent Kompany, David Silva, many players helped this club make a step forward and of course he was one of them."

Guardiola said the Argentinian had been pivotal in helping City become a domestic football superpower after decades of living in city rivals Manchester United's shadow.

Aguero's most memorable moment for City fans will remain a goal scored in the final game of the 2011/12 season.

Manchester United were seconds away from celebrating yet another Premier League title, prolonging the agony of their neighbours, who had not been crowned English champions since 1968.

But Aguero had other ideas, receiving the ball from Mario Balotelli and thundering home a finish to secure a 3-2 victory against QPR and send the Etihad into raptures.

"When he came here the club was in one level, and he helped to put the club in a higher level," Guardiola said.

"Of course the fans always will be grateful."

This season, though, has been a struggle for Aguero.

He had knee surgery in the close season. A hamstring problem complicated his comeback and then he had to sit out a month after a coronavirus infection.

However, with City bidding for a historic quadruple trophy sweep -- Aguero looks all but certain to share in a fifth league title -- Guardiola says the Argentine has time to sign off in style.

"I think he still has interesting goals to score this season," said Guardiola.

Sergio Aguero is "irreplaceable in the souls, in the hearts, in the minds of our fans," Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has said of the club's record goalscorer who is to leave at the end of the season.

Sergio Aguero is "irreplaceable in the souls, in the hearts, in the minds of our fans," Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has said of the club's record goalscorer who is to leave at the end of the season. Aguero joined City from Atletico Madrid in 2011, three years after the club was taken over by Abu Dhabi owners, and will leave after 10 trophy-laden years, with 257 goals in 384 games so far. Guardiola said 32-year-old Aguero's goals tally could be surpassed one day, but what he means to the club was unique. "Sergio is irreplaceable," said Guardiola. "I could say in terms of numbers he can be replaceable, it's not easy when you see more than 360 games played and more than 250 goals, the amount of titles (he has won). "So it's the legend, the best striker this club has ever had for this century through the years, but is irreplaceable in the souls, in the hearts, in the minds of our fans, of our people, of the players that played alongside him and all the managers who worked with him." Guardiola said he felt blessed when he took over as manager in 2016 to have such stalwarts as Aguero at the club. "We were so lucky, the guys who came after him -- me as a manager for example," he said. "We took over the club and he was one of the guys like Joe Hart, Pablo Zabaleta, Vincent Kompany, David Silva, many players helped this club make a step forward and of course he was one of them." Guardiola said the Argentinian had been pivotal in helping City become a domestic football superpower after decades of living in city rivals Manchester United's shadow. Aguero's most memorable moment for City fans will remain a goal scored in the final game of the 2011/12 season. Manchester United were seconds away from celebrating yet another Premier League title, prolonging the agony of their neighbours, who had not been crowned English champions since 1968. But Aguero had other ideas, receiving the ball from Mario Balotelli and thundering home a finish to secure a 3-2 victory against QPR and send the Etihad into raptures. "When he came here the club was in one level, and he helped to put the club in a higher level," Guardiola said. "Of course the fans always will be grateful." This season, though, has been a struggle for Aguero. He had knee surgery in the close season. A hamstring problem complicated his comeback and then he had to sit out a month after a coronavirus infection. However, with City bidding for a historic quadruple trophy sweep -- Aguero looks all but certain to share in a fifth league title -- Guardiola says the Argentine has time to sign off in style. "I think he still has interesting goals to score this season," said Guardiola.

'Irreplaceable' Aguero won hearts and minds of City fans: Guardiola

UEFA announced on Wednesday it had ended its 30-percent spectator limit in stadiums, potentially allowing host nations to choose their own restrictions at this summer's continent-wide European Championship.

The measure had been in place since last year in reaction to the coronavirus pandemic but travelling supporters are still barred from attending.

"Such a cap is no longer needed and... the decision on the number of permitted spectators should fall under the exclusive responsibility of the relevant competent local/national authorities," European football's governing body said.

"In view of the ongoing travel restrictions and in order to enact reasonable and responsible policies to minimize Covid-19 related risks, the Executive Committee decided to confirm the decision of 1 October 2020 insofar that visiting fans are not allowed to attend UEFA competition matches.

"This is valid until prior to the club competition finals taking place in May 2021," it added.

Earlier this month UEFA told AFP it wanted supporters at all games, played across 12 different countries from June 11-July 11.

The tournament has been postponed from last year due to the Covid-19 oubtreak.

"If a city proposes a 'no fans' scenario" the matches due to be held there "could" be switched "to cities able to welcome supporters", the body said on March 17.

Host cities have until April 7 to let UEFA know what their scenarios are in terms of attendance ahead of an executive committee meeting on April 19, on the eve of the federation's annual congress in Montreux, Switzerland.

The multi-venue format, whilst complex, gives organisers flexibility to deal with issues arising from the pandemic.

"If we can no longer do anything in one country there are still 11 others where preparations are already in progress," UEFA's health advisor Daniel Koch told AFP at the start of the month.

UEFA announced on Wednesday it had ended its 30-percent spectator limit in stadiums, potentially allowing host nations to choose their own restrictions at this summer's continent-wide European Championship.

UEFA announced on Wednesday it had ended its 30-percent spectator limit in stadiums, potentially allowing host nations to choose their own restrictions at this summer's continent-wide European Championship. The measure had been in place since last year in reaction to the coronavirus pandemic but travelling supporters are still barred from attending. "Such a cap is no longer needed and... the decision on the number of permitted spectators should fall under the exclusive responsibility of the relevant competent local/national authorities," European football's governing body said. "In view of the ongoing travel restrictions and in order to enact reasonable and responsible policies to minimize Covid-19 related risks, the Executive Committee decided to confirm the decision of 1 October 2020 insofar that visiting fans are not allowed to attend UEFA competition matches. "This is valid until prior to the club competition finals taking place in May 2021," it added. Earlier this month UEFA told AFP it wanted supporters at all games, played across 12 different countries from June 11-July 11. The tournament has been postponed from last year due to the Covid-19 oubtreak. "If a city proposes a 'no fans' scenario" the matches due to be held there "could" be switched "to cities able to welcome supporters", the body said on March 17. Host cities have until April 7 to let UEFA know what their scenarios are in terms of attendance ahead of an executive committee meeting on April 19, on the eve of the federation's annual congress in Montreux, Switzerland. The multi-venue format, whilst complex, gives organisers flexibility to deal with issues arising from the pandemic. "If we can no longer do anything in one country there are still 11 others where preparations are already in progress," UEFA's health advisor Daniel Koch told AFP at the start of the month.

UEFA hands Euro 2020 spectator limit responsibility to host cities

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