Real Madrid and Germany midfielder Toni Kroos has sharply criticised 2022 World Cup host nation Qatar in the wake of several European teams protesting about conditions in the Emirate state.

"I think the awarding of the World Cup to Qatar was not a good thing for several reasons," said Kroos in his podcast 'Einfach mal Luppen' (Just lob it), which he co-hosts with his brother Felix.

"The first reason is the conditions of the workers... then the fact that homosexuality is penalised and punished in Qatar... and also that it is not a football country," added the 31-year-old midfielder.

"Many Qatari workers, but also foreigners, work without a break, in temperatures that can reach 50 degrees (Celsius).

"They sometimes suffer from a lack of food or drinking water, which is madness in those temperatures.

"They have no medical coverage and there is a certain amount of violence against these workers.

"These are points which are completely unacceptable."

Kroos comments came after the Netherlands, Germany, Belgium and Norway all protested by wearing T-shirts with messages such as "Human Rights" or "Football supports change" before World Cup qualifiers over the last week.

Several players confirmed the protests were aimed at Qatar.

Qatar has faced criticisms for its treatment of migrant workers, many of whom are involved in preparations for the 2022 World Cup, with campaigners accusing employers of exploitation and forcing labourers to work in dangerous conditions.&nbsp;

Qatari authorities insist they have done more than any country in the region to improve worker welfare.

Kroos, who helped Germany win the 2014 World Cup, explained why he is against a boycott of the 2022 finals and said footballers should use their platform to call for change in Qatar.

"The visibility of the World Cup may draw even more attention to these problems" and "a boycott would probably not change much about the situation for the workers there", Kroos added.

The Madrid playmaker has been sidelined for Germany's three qualifiers over the last week with a groin injury.

Real Madrid and Germany midfielder Toni Kroos has sharply criticised 2022 World Cup host nation Qatar in the wake of several European teams protesting about conditions in the Emirate state.

Real Madrid and Germany midfielder Toni Kroos has sharply criticised 2022 World Cup host nation Qatar in the wake of several European teams protesting about conditions in the Emirate state. "I think the awarding of the World Cup to Qatar was not a good thing for several reasons," said Kroos in his podcast 'Einfach mal Luppen' (Just lob it), which he co-hosts with his brother Felix. "The first reason is the conditions of the workers... then the fact that homosexuality is penalised and punished in Qatar... and also that it is not a football country," added the 31-year-old midfielder. "Many Qatari workers, but also foreigners, work without a break, in temperatures that can reach 50 degrees (Celsius). "They sometimes suffer from a lack of food or drinking water, which is madness in those temperatures. "They have no medical coverage and there is a certain amount of violence against these workers. "These are points which are completely unacceptable." Kroos comments came after the Netherlands, Germany, Belgium and Norway all protested by wearing T-shirts with messages such as "Human Rights" or "Football supports change" before World Cup qualifiers over the last week. Several players confirmed the protests were aimed at Qatar. Qatar has faced criticisms for its treatment of migrant workers, many of whom are involved in preparations for the 2022 World Cup, with campaigners accusing employers of exploitation and forcing labourers to work in dangerous conditions. Qatari authorities insist they have done more than any country in the region to improve worker welfare. Kroos, who helped Germany win the 2014 World Cup, explained why he is against a boycott of the 2022 finals and said footballers should use their platform to call for change in Qatar. "The visibility of the World Cup may draw even more attention to these problems" and "a boycott would probably not change much about the situation for the workers there", Kroos added. The Madrid playmaker has been sidelined for Germany's three qualifiers over the last week with a groin injury.

Germany's Kroos slams World Cup hosts Qatar amid protests

Harbhajan Singh is set to be back on the cricket field with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, scheduled to start on April 9. Harbhajan, who didn't play IPL 2020 due to personal reasons, was signed by KKR during the auction and all eyes will be on the World Cup-winning off-spinner in the lucrative T20 tournament.&nbsp;

Harbhajan, who hasn't played professional cricket since the final of IPL 2019, received backing from KKR captain Eoin Morgan as he said that he adds plenty of experience and value to the team.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Now, Harbhajan has said that many have asked why he is still playing at the age of 40 but added he is not here to prove anything to anyone but for his own satisfaction.&nbsp;

"A lot of people think 'Bhai yeh&nbsp;kyun&nbsp;khel&nbsp;raha&nbsp;hain?' Arrey bhai ye&nbsp;unki&nbsp;soch&nbsp;hai, meri&nbsp;naahi. Meri&nbsp;soch&nbsp;hai&nbsp;ki&nbsp;main&nbsp;abhi&nbsp;khel&nbsp;sakta&nbsp;hoon,&nbsp;toh&nbsp;main&nbsp;khelunga&nbsp;(People think 'why is he playing' but that's your opinion. From where I see myself, I want to play and I will play)," Harbhajan told&nbsp;PTI in an interview.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-punjab-kings-more-balanced-squad-than-last-season-wasim-jaffer-to-wion-374488" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Punjab Kings more balanced squad than last season - Wasim Jaffer to WION</a>

"I have got nothing to prove to anyone. My intention is to play well, enjoy my stint out there in the middle and playing cricket still gives me that satisfaction.&nbsp;

"I have set a standard for myself and if I don't meet that, I don't need anyone else but I will blame myself. I need to ask myself, did I put in the optimum effort that was required," he said just before moving into the team bubble."&nbsp;

Harbhajan will join the likes of Sunil Narine, Varun Chakravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav among others in the spin-heavy KKR outfit. The 40-year-old sounded confident ahead of IPL 2021 as he said with experience under his belt, he knows what to do in what conditions.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-am-lucky-that-i-will-be-playing-under-mahi-bhai-cheteshwar-pujara-ahead-of-ipl-2021-374456" hreflang="en">'I am lucky that I will be playing under Mahi bhai': Cheteshwar Pujara ahead of IPL 2021</a>

"These questions are asked because I haven't played a lot of cricket of late so teams are a bit defensive at auction and they don't want to bid for me," Harbhajan said.&nbsp;

"But let me remind you all that when I did well for CSK in the 2019 IPL, I hadn't played any domestic cricket. I came to the camp, prepared and went into the match. At my level and experience, I know what needs to be done.&nbsp;

"I don't need to play domestic cricket for Punjab and stop a young talent from flourishing. That boy needs that chance more than me," he added.&nbsp;

Kolkata knight Riders will&nbsp;start&nbsp;their&nbsp;IPL 2021&nbsp;campaign against Sunrisers Hyderabad in Chennai on April 11&nbsp;

Harbhajan Singh is set to be back on the cricket field with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, scheduled to start on April 9.

Harbhajan Singh is set to be back on the cricket field with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, scheduled to start on April 9. Harbhajan, who didn't play IPL 2020 due to personal reasons, was signed by KKR during the auction and all eyes will be on the World Cup-winning off-spinner in the lucrative T20 tournament. Harbhajan, who hasn't played professional cricket since the final of IPL 2019, received backing from KKR captain Eoin Morgan as he said that he adds plenty of experience and value to the team. Now, Harbhajan has said that many have asked why he is still playing at the age of 40 but added he is not here to prove anything to anyone but for his own satisfaction. "A lot of people think 'Bhai yeh kyun khel raha hain?' Arrey bhai ye unki soch hai, meri naahi. Meri soch hai ki main abhi khel sakta hoon, toh main khelunga (People think 'why is he playing' but that's your opinion. From where I see myself, I want to play and I will play)," Harbhajan told PTI in an interview. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Punjab Kings more balanced squad than last season - Wasim Jaffer to WION "I have got nothing to prove to anyone. My intention is to play well, enjoy my stint out there in the middle and playing cricket still gives me that satisfaction. "I have set a standard for myself and if I don't meet that, I don't need anyone else but I will blame myself. I need to ask myself, did I put in the optimum effort that was required," he said just before moving into the team bubble." Harbhajan will join the likes of Sunil Narine, Varun Chakravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav among others in the spin-heavy KKR outfit. The 40-year-old sounded confident ahead of IPL 2021 as he said with experience under his belt, he knows what to do in what conditions. ALSO READ: 'I am lucky that I will be playing under Mahi bhai': Cheteshwar Pujara ahead of IPL 2021 "These questions are asked because I haven't played a lot of cricket of late so teams are a bit defensive at auction and they don't want to bid for me," Harbhajan said. "But let me remind you all that when I did well for CSK in the 2019 IPL, I hadn't played any domestic cricket. I came to the camp, prepared and went into the match. At my level and experience, I know what needs to be done. "I don't need to play domestic cricket for Punjab and stop a young talent from flourishing. That boy needs that chance more than me," he added. Kolkata knight Riders will start their IPL 2021 campaign against Sunrisers Hyderabad in Chennai on April 11

I have set a standard for myself: Harbhajan Singh answers critics ahead of KKR stint in IPL 2021

Former India captain Mohammad Azharuddin has said that Rishabh Pant might become a front-runner for the Team India captaincy role in the future after the youngster was named the Delhi Capitals captain for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Pant will step in as the captain of DC in IPL 2021&nbsp;in the absence of injured Shreyas Iyer, who was ruled out of the tournament due to a left shoulder injury.&nbsp;

"Rishabh Pant has had such fabulous few months, establishing himself in all formats. It won't come as a surprise if the selectors see him as a front-runner for Indian captaincy in near future. His attacking cricket will stand India in good stead in times to come," Azharuddin, who played 334 ODIs and 99 Tests, for India&nbsp;tweeted.&nbsp;

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Rishabh Pant has had such fabulous few months,establishing himself in all formats. It won’t come as a surprise if the selectors see him as a front-runner fr Indian captaincy in near future.His attacking cricket will stand India in good stead in times to come.<a href="https://twitter.com/RishabhPant17?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RishabhPant17</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCI</a>
— Mohammed Azharuddin (@azharflicks) <a href="https://twitter.com/azharflicks/status/1377140377119956993?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 31, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Delhi Capitals coach and former Australia skipper Ricky Ponting also said that captaincy will make Pant a better player.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kkr-captain-eoin-morgan-provides-update-on-his-split-webbing-injury-ahead-of-ipl-2021-374545" hreflang="en">KKR captain Eoin Morgan provides update on his split webbing injury ahead of IPL 2021</a>

"Unfortunate that Shreyas will miss the tournament, but looking forward to seeing&nbsp;@RishabhPant17&nbsp;grab his opportunity. It's well deserved for his recent performances and he's coming in with a lot of confidence. I'm convinced captaincy will make him an even better player," Ponting tweeted.&nbsp;

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Unfortunate that Shreyas will miss the tournament, but looking forward to seeing <a href="https://twitter.com/RishabhPant17?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RishabhPant17</a> grab his opportunity. It's well deserved for his recent performances and he's coming in with a lot of confidence. I'm convinced captaincy will make him an even better player. <a href="https://t.co/tVqMnLt1Er">https://t.co/tVqMnLt1Er</a>
— Ricky Ponting AO (@RickyPonting) <a href="https://twitter.com/RickyPonting/status/1377110642922954758?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 31, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sunrisers-hyderabad-sign-jason-roy-as-mitchell-marsh-pulls-out-of-ipl-2021-374521" hreflang="en">Sunrisers Hyderabad sign Jason Roy as Mitchell Marsh pulls out of IPL 2021</a>

On his new role, Pant in a statement said, "Delhi is where I grew up, and where my IPL journey began six years ago. To lead this team one day is a dream I've always&nbsp;harboured. And today, as that dream comes true, I feel humbled. I am truly grateful, especially to our team owners, who considered me capable enough for this role. With an amazing coaching staff, and a plethora of accomplished seniors around me, I can't wait to give my absolute best for Delhi Capitals."&nbsp;&nbsp;

Delhi Capitals will begin their IPL 2021 campaign against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on April 10&nbsp;

Former India captain Mohammad Azharuddin has said that Rishabh Pant might become a front-runner for the Team India captaincy role in the future after the youngster was named the Delhi Capitals captain for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021.

Former India captain Mohammad Azharuddin has said that Rishabh Pant might become a front-runner for the Team India captaincy role in the future after the youngster was named the Delhi Capitals captain for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. Pant will step in as the captain of DC in IPL 2021 in the absence of injured Shreyas Iyer, who was ruled out of the tournament due to a left shoulder injury. "Rishabh Pant has had such fabulous few months, establishing himself in all formats. It won't come as a surprise if the selectors see him as a front-runner for Indian captaincy in near future. His attacking cricket will stand India in good stead in times to come," Azharuddin, who played 334 ODIs and 99 Tests, for India tweeted. Rishabh Pant has had such fabulous few months,establishing himself in all formats. It won’t come as a surprise if the selectors see him as a front-runner fr Indian captaincy in near future.His attacking cricket will stand India in good stead in times to come.@RishabhPant17 @BCCI — Mohammed Azharuddin (@azharflicks) March 31, 2021 × Delhi Capitals coach and former Australia skipper Ricky Ponting also said that captaincy will make Pant a better player. ALSO READ: KKR captain Eoin Morgan provides update on his split webbing injury ahead of IPL 2021 "Unfortunate that Shreyas will miss the tournament, but looking forward to seeing @RishabhPant17 grab his opportunity. It's well deserved for his recent performances and he's coming in with a lot of confidence. I'm convinced captaincy will make him an even better player," Ponting tweeted. Unfortunate that Shreyas will miss the tournament, but looking forward to seeing @RishabhPant17 grab his opportunity. It's well deserved for his recent performances and he's coming in with a lot of confidence. I'm convinced captaincy will make him an even better player. https://t.co/tVqMnLt1Er — Ricky Ponting AO (@RickyPonting) March 31, 2021 × ALSO READ: Sunrisers Hyderabad sign Jason Roy as Mitchell Marsh pulls out of IPL 2021 On his new role, Pant in a statement said, "Delhi is where I grew up, and where my IPL journey began six years ago. To lead this team one day is a dream I've always harboured. And today, as that dream comes true, I feel humbled. I am truly grateful, especially to our team owners, who considered me capable enough for this role. With an amazing coaching staff, and a plethora of accomplished seniors around me, I can't wait to give my absolute best for Delhi Capitals." Delhi Capitals will begin their IPL 2021 campaign against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on April 10

Won't be surprised if selectors see Rishabh Pant as front-runner for India captaincy: Azharuddin

Ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) captain&nbsp;Eoin Morgan gave an update on his fitness as he said the gap between the ODI series between India-England and IPL gave him the best time to recover. Morgan, England's limited-overs skipper, missed the final two ODIs against India&nbsp;after sustaining a split webbing between his thumb and index finger in the series opener.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Morgan's injury required four stitches and KKR fans were in worry whether the talismanic&nbsp;leader will miss a few games early in IPL 2021 due to the injury.&nbsp;However, Morgan has said that he is feeling a lot better now and is looking forward to his progress in the coming days. The southpaw added that doctors would be removing the stitches on Thursday.&nbsp;

"Yeah, I feel a lot better than I did a week ago. The plan moving forward is to remove the stitches tomorrow and progress with my batting in the coming days and fielding on the back of that. Given the time frame I have available, it's looking very good," said Morgan during a virtual press conference on Wednesday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sunrisers-hyderabad-sign-jason-roy-as-mitchell-marsh-pulls-out-of-ipl-2021-374521" hreflang="en">Sunrisers Hyderabad sign Jason Roy as Mitchell Marsh pulls out of IPL 2021</a>

There plenty of debates surrounding KKR's batting order and team composition during IPL 2020 where the Kolkata outfit narrowly missed out on the playoffs. Morgan is of the view that KKR have plenty of versatility that&nbsp;gives them the opportunity to shuffle things around. However, he admitted that they need to make the right call during matches.&nbsp;

"We are all due to get together quite soon towards the end of the week in which we will discuss our plans and thoughts and actually talk about our strengths as a squad and team. Last year, we saw the versatility within our middle order and the flexibility to promote myself, DK, or Sunil. If we play well, there will be a lot of teams that will not enjoy playing against us. We need to make the right call in when to play the best hand and that is one thing we learnt from the last year."&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-punjab-kings-more-balanced-squad-than-last-season-wasim-jaffer-to-wion-374488" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Punjab Kings more balanced squad than last season - Wasim Jaffer to WION</a>

"The IPL is the biggest tournament in the world which has the biggest of players. A competitive campaign or successful campaign is the battle with the injuries or illness along the way. Whether you like it or not, it does happen throughout a season. Planning needs to be put across to strengthen your team across all areas. We did that in this auction and we are hoping to best position ourselves to have a versatile team when it comes to selection," he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;

IPL will begin on April 9 with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Mumbai Indians locking horns&nbsp;in the tournament opener. KKR will play their first game on April 11 against SunRisers Hyderabad.&nbsp;

Ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) captain Eoin Morgan gave an update on his fitness as he said the gap between the ODI series between India-England and IPL gave him the best time to recover.

Ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) captain Eoin Morgan gave an update on his fitness as he said the gap between the ODI series between India-England and IPL gave him the best time to recover. Morgan, England's limited-overs skipper, missed the final two ODIs against India after sustaining a split webbing between his thumb and index finger in the series opener. Morgan's injury required four stitches and KKR fans were in worry whether the talismanic leader will miss a few games early in IPL 2021 due to the injury. However, Morgan has said that he is feeling a lot better now and is looking forward to his progress in the coming days. The southpaw added that doctors would be removing the stitches on Thursday. "Yeah, I feel a lot better than I did a week ago. The plan moving forward is to remove the stitches tomorrow and progress with my batting in the coming days and fielding on the back of that. Given the time frame I have available, it's looking very good," said Morgan during a virtual press conference on Wednesday. ALSO READ: Sunrisers Hyderabad sign Jason Roy as Mitchell Marsh pulls out of IPL 2021 There plenty of debates surrounding KKR's batting order and team composition during IPL 2020 where the Kolkata outfit narrowly missed out on the playoffs. Morgan is of the view that KKR have plenty of versatility that gives them the opportunity to shuffle things around. However, he admitted that they need to make the right call during matches. "We are all due to get together quite soon towards the end of the week in which we will discuss our plans and thoughts and actually talk about our strengths as a squad and team. Last year, we saw the versatility within our middle order and the flexibility to promote myself, DK, or Sunil. If we play well, there will be a lot of teams that will not enjoy playing against us. We need to make the right call in when to play the best hand and that is one thing we learnt from the last year." ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Punjab Kings more balanced squad than last season - Wasim Jaffer to WION "The IPL is the biggest tournament in the world which has the biggest of players. A competitive campaign or successful campaign is the battle with the injuries or illness along the way. Whether you like it or not, it does happen throughout a season. Planning needs to be put across to strengthen your team across all areas. We did that in this auction and we are hoping to best position ourselves to have a versatile team when it comes to selection," he added. IPL will begin on April 9 with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Mumbai Indians locking horns in the tournament opener. KKR will play their first game on April 11 against SunRisers Hyderabad.

KKR captain Eoin Morgan provides update on his split webbing injury ahead of IPL 2021

Sunrisers Hyderabad all-rounder&nbsp;Mitchell Marsh has pulled out of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. WION has learned from sources close to the development that Marsh&nbsp;didn't want to spend time inside a strict bio-secure bubble.&nbsp;The Aussie informed the Sunrisers Hyderabad about his decision a few days ago.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Yes, Mitchell Marsh has pulled out," confirmed a source close to SRH camp to WION.

Later on the day, Sunrisers Hyderabad announced England opener Jason Roy as Marsh's replacement.

Marsh would have had to undergo a seven-day isolation period while being inside the&nbsp;stringent&nbsp;bio-secure environment for the almost two-month-long tournament.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-punjab-kings-more-balanced-squad-than-last-season-wasim-jaffer-to-wion-374488" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Punjab Kings more balanced squad than last season - Wasim Jaffer to WION</a>

The Australian all-rounder missed the IPL 2020 after twisting his angle in SRH's first match of the tournament last season. While Marsh was ruled out of IPL 2020, West Indies all-rounder Jason Holder had replaced him in the SRH squad. Marsh was&nbsp;signed up by SRH for INR 2 crore.&nbsp;

Marsh was part of the Australian squad in the recently concluded T20I series&nbsp;but couldn’t get a game under his belt. Since then, he has been playing for Victoria in the Sheffield Shield.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Marsh, who made his Indian Premier League debut in 2010 has played a total of 21 IPL games. His replacement, Jason Roy made his IPL debut in 2017 playing for Gujarat Lions and&nbsp;later featured for Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) in the 2018 IPL edition. He has played a total of 8 matches and scored 179 runs with one half-century to his name. &nbsp;

The Australian contingent of IPL 2021 players is set to depart for India on April 1 with the likes of Pat Cummins, David Warner&nbsp;among others joining their respective squads on April 2.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-am-lucky-that-i-will-be-playing-under-mahi-bhai-cheteshwar-pujara-ahead-of-ipl-2021-374456" hreflang="en">'I am lucky that I will be playing under Mahi bhai': Cheteshwar Pujara ahead of IPL 2021</a>

IPL 2021 is set to begin on April 9 with defending champions Mumbai Indians taking on Royal Challengers Bangalore in Chennai.

&nbsp;

Sunrisers Hyderabad all-rounder Mitchell Marsh has pulled out of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. WION has learned from sources close to the development that Marsh didn't want to spend time inside a strict bio-secure bubble.

Sunrisers Hyderabad all-rounder Mitchell Marsh has pulled out of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. WION has learned from sources close to the development that Marsh didn't want to spend time inside a strict bio-secure bubble. The Aussie informed the Sunrisers Hyderabad about his decision a few days ago. "Yes, Mitchell Marsh has pulled out," confirmed a source close to SRH camp to WION. Later on the day, Sunrisers Hyderabad announced England opener Jason Roy as Marsh's replacement. Marsh would have had to undergo a seven-day isolation period while being inside the stringent bio-secure environment for the almost two-month-long tournament. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Punjab Kings more balanced squad than last season - Wasim Jaffer to WION The Australian all-rounder missed the IPL 2020 after twisting his angle in SRH's first match of the tournament last season. While Marsh was ruled out of IPL 2020, West Indies all-rounder Jason Holder had replaced him in the SRH squad. Marsh was signed up by SRH for INR 2 crore. Marsh was part of the Australian squad in the recently concluded T20I series but couldn’t get a game under his belt. Since then, he has been playing for Victoria in the Sheffield Shield. Marsh, who made his Indian Premier League debut in 2010 has played a total of 21 IPL games. His replacement, Jason Roy made his IPL debut in 2017 playing for Gujarat Lions and later featured for Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) in the 2018 IPL edition. He has played a total of 8 matches and scored 179 runs with one half-century to his name. The Australian contingent of IPL 2021 players is set to depart for India on April 1 with the likes of Pat Cummins, David Warner among others joining their respective squads on April 2. ALSO READ: 'I am lucky that I will be playing under Mahi bhai': Cheteshwar Pujara ahead of IPL 2021 IPL 2021 is set to begin on April 9 with defending champions Mumbai Indians taking on Royal Challengers Bangalore in Chennai.

Sunrisers Hyderabad sign Jason Roy as Mitchell Marsh pulls out of IPL 2021

England pacer Jofra Archer on Monday underwent successful surgery on his right hand. A fragment of glass was removed from his middle finger on his right hand during the surgery.&nbsp;

Archer will not start two weeks of rehabilitation and the consultant will review the England pacer before he gets back to training.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A further update on his elbow injury – unrelated to his finger injury – will be provided once he has returned to bowling&nbsp;to access the effectiveness of his recent injection.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-punjab-kings-more-balanced-squad-than-last-season-wasim-jaffer-to-wion-374488" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Punjab Kings more balanced squad than last season - Wasim Jaffer to WION</a>

Archer suffered a cut to his hand while cleaning a fish tank at his home in January shortly before flying to India for the Test series. The pacer's injury was managed by ECB's medical team during the tour.&nbsp;&nbsp;

However, it is yet unclear whether Archer will be able to take any part in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. While it is confirmed that Archer will miss a couple of weeks of action due to the surgery, he could be back for the later phase of IPL 2021 given how his recovery&nbsp;goes. A call on his availability will be taken later by the ECB.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-waited-for-this-opportunity-shahrukh-khan-aims-to-make-it-big-for-punjab-kings-in-ipl-2021-374299" hreflang="en">Exclusive: 'Waited for this opportunity' - Shahrukh Khan aims to make it big for Punjab Kings in IPL 2021</a>

Archer is a crucial member of the Rajasthan Royals (RR) squad and his absence comes as a huge blow to the franchise, who would be looking to lift the coveted trophy for the first time since 2008.&nbsp;&nbsp;

With a busy summer approaching England, the team would want to have Archer fully fit for the T20 World Cup and the Ashes.&nbsp;

England pacer Jofra Archer on Monday underwent successful surgery on his right hand. A fragment of glass was removed from his middle finger on his right hand during the surgery.

England pacer Jofra Archer on Monday underwent successful surgery on his right hand. A fragment of glass was removed from his middle finger on his right hand during the surgery. Archer will not start two weeks of rehabilitation and the consultant will review the England pacer before he gets back to training. A further update on his elbow injury – unrelated to his finger injury – will be provided once he has returned to bowling to access the effectiveness of his recent injection. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Punjab Kings more balanced squad than last season - Wasim Jaffer to WION Archer suffered a cut to his hand while cleaning a fish tank at his home in January shortly before flying to India for the Test series. The pacer's injury was managed by ECB's medical team during the tour. However, it is yet unclear whether Archer will be able to take any part in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. While it is confirmed that Archer will miss a couple of weeks of action due to the surgery, he could be back for the later phase of IPL 2021 given how his recovery goes. A call on his availability will be taken later by the ECB. ALSO READ: Exclusive: 'Waited for this opportunity' - Shahrukh Khan aims to make it big for Punjab Kings in IPL 2021 Archer is a crucial member of the Rajasthan Royals (RR) squad and his absence comes as a huge blow to the franchise, who would be looking to lift the coveted trophy for the first time since 2008. With a busy summer approaching England, the team would want to have Archer fully fit for the T20 World Cup and the Ashes.

England provide injury update on Jofra Archer ahead of IPL 2021

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 is set to commence from April 9 with eight teams gearing up to battle it out for the coveted trophy. Punjab Kings are one of the outfits&nbsp;who are yet to win IPL but would be raring to go and end the trophy drought.&nbsp;

A revamped Punjab Kings, with a refreshed brand presence, would be itching to do well in the 14th&nbsp;edition of the IPL after years of disappointments and heartbreaks. Punjab Kings batting coach and one of the legendary names in Indian cricket, Wasim Jaffer, in interaction&nbsp;with WION,&nbsp;talked about the new additions in the squad, the talk around tactics and 'match-ups', and workload management.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Since the introduction of T20 cricket, the term ‘match-up’ has been used far more than it was used before. The shortest format of the game and arguably the most&nbsp;challenging for players when it comes to making instant impact and decisions.&nbsp;While some pundits have, in past, said that teams and players sometimes dwell too much on tactical decisions and match-ups, Jaffer is of the view that it is one of the crucial aspects of the shortest format of the game.&nbsp;

<img alt="Wasim Jaffer Punjab Kings" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c37bd5ea-c005-4277-9b26-afeeda43ae46" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/1P9fjbYEBd.jpg" />

“It has become important because it is such as short format. If a batsman is facing trouble against one particular type of bowler, then you would want to exploit that weakness. The batsmen don't have too much time to settle down so those match-ups really matter in the shortest format. If it’s the longer format say 50 overs then the batsmen have a little bit of breathing space. So, in T20 format it matters a lot,” Jaffer told WION.&nbsp;

“Don't get me wrong. you need to have variety. If an off-spinner is bowling then it does look like that the right-hand batsman will take him on. The ball going away from you will obviously be difficult to hit. That's why as soon as a left-hander comes you bring a right-arm off-spinner. When two left-handers are batting, you don't see a captain opting for two left-arm spinners. It is something captains fear that he might go for runs. But at the same time, some quality bowlers will bowl in every situation. Bowlers like Harbhajan Singh, Ravichandran Ashwin, Washington Sundar&nbsp;who have got quality and variety will always survive. But as I said, in the shorter format you don't have the breathing space to settle down and that goes for a bowler as well so that is where match-ups become important,” Jaffer, who is also the highest run-scorer&nbsp;in Ranji Trophy history, explained.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-waited-for-this-opportunity-shahrukh-khan-aims-to-make-it-big-for-punjab-kings-in-ipl-2021-374299" hreflang="en">Exclusive: 'Waited for this opportunity' - Shahrukh Khan aims to make it big for Punjab Kings in IPL 2021</a>

Punjab Kings captain KL Rahul roared back to form for Team India in the recently concluded ODI series against England. However, he faced criticism during the T20I series where he struggled to get it going with the willow with terms such as 'poor form’ and 'rough patch' being thrown around by fans and experts.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I think those terms are bound to come your way in today's world. Such is this sport. But with so many matches being played, the quicker players lose form, the quicker they can get back to the rhythm. Recently, KL Rahul was going through a dry run in the T20I series but he got the ODI series to gain his confidence back. I think it is natural that players won't be able to perform in every match and it is important to not lose focus when you are not scoring big runs or getting wickets,” Jaffer said.&nbsp;

<img alt="Jaffer Punjab" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5c41249f-1962-4017-8344-705360a235a1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/XFxNUPcvQw.jpg" />

In the IPL 2021 auction, Punjab Kings went with the biggest purse and ended up signing some big-name players such as Dawid Malan,&nbsp;Jhye&nbsp;Richardson, Fabian Allen among others. With a static core, Punjab bolstered their squad by adding match-winners and it would be interesting to see how they fare&nbsp;in the tournament. Jaffer is excited by the new additions and looking forward to working with them during the season.&nbsp;

List of players bought by Punjab Kings: Dawid Malan (INR 1.5 crore),&nbsp;Jhye&nbsp;Richardson (INR 14 crore), Riley Meredith (INR 8 crore), Moises Henriques (INR 4.2 crore), Jalaj Saxena (INR 30 lakh), Shahrukh Khan (INR 5.25 crore), Utkarsh Singh (INR 20 lakh), Saurabh Kumar (INR 20 lakh)&nbsp;

“It has got much more balance as compared to last season. We were lacking bowlers who would back Mohammed Shami. We had Chris Jordan but we needed somebody who can bowl at 145kph&nbsp;in the death overs, where we leaked a lot of runs before. With their additions, it is going to be a bit different this season. Both of them,&nbsp;Jhye&nbsp;and Meredith have got pace. Dawid Malan is the number one T20I batsman. Fabian Allen is another guy who can make a lot of impact down the order and with the ball. So yes, the additions are looking good. ” Jaffer said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/very-humbling-experience-dawid-malan-sam-billings-on-interaction-with-blind-cricketers-in-india-369777" hreflang="en">Very humbling experience: Dawid Malan, Sam Billings on interaction with blind cricketers in India</a>

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And the hustle begins... 🏃‍♂️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SaddaPunjab?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SaddaPunjab</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PunjabKings?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PunjabKings</a> <a href="https://t.co/TV0JcrX8N2">pic.twitter.com/TV0JcrX8N2</a>
— Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/PunjabKingsIPL/status/1375814732037283851?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 27, 2021</a></blockquote>
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With the ICC World Test Championship final and T20 World Cup around the corner, players would want to keep themselves fresh for the showpiece events. With Punjab Kings having key players from the Indian team in their set-up, all eyes would be on them as to how they manage the workload&nbsp;of vital players. Jaffer said that Punjab Kings looked after workload management of key players last season and are looking to do the same this season in a bid to avoid burnout.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“We have always looked after our players. Anil bhai (Anil Kumble),&nbsp;Andrew (Andrew&nbsp;Leipus)&nbsp;and the medical staff&nbsp;are there to look after the workload management aspect of the game.&nbsp;We don't our players to suffer from burnout. And even last season, we took care of the workload of our players.&nbsp;It is important to keep the players fresh to get the best out of them,” Jaffer&nbsp;concluded.&nbsp;

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 is set to commence from April 9 with eight teams gearing up to battle it out for the coveted trophy. Punjab Kings are one of the outfits who are yet to win IPL but would be raring to go and end the trophy drought.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 is set to commence from April 9 with eight teams gearing up to battle it out for the coveted trophy. Punjab Kings are one of the outfits who are yet to win IPL but would be raring to go and end the trophy drought. A revamped Punjab Kings, with a refreshed brand presence, would be itching to do well in the 14th edition of the IPL after years of disappointments and heartbreaks. Punjab Kings batting coach and one of the legendary names in Indian cricket, Wasim Jaffer, in interaction with WION, talked about the new additions in the squad, the talk around tactics and 'match-ups', and workload management. Since the introduction of T20 cricket, the term ‘match-up’ has been used far more than it was used before. The shortest format of the game and arguably the most challenging for players when it comes to making instant impact and decisions. While some pundits have, in past, said that teams and players sometimes dwell too much on tactical decisions and match-ups, Jaffer is of the view that it is one of the crucial aspects of the shortest format of the game. “It has become important because it is such as short format. If a batsman is facing trouble against one particular type of bowler, then you would want to exploit that weakness. The batsmen don't have too much time to settle down so those match-ups really matter in the shortest format. If it’s the longer format say 50 overs then the batsmen have a little bit of breathing space. So, in T20 format it matters a lot,” Jaffer told WION. “Don't get me wrong. you need to have variety. If an off-spinner is bowling then it does look like that the right-hand batsman will take him on. The ball going away from you will obviously be difficult to hit. That's why as soon as a left-hander comes you bring a right-arm off-spinner. When two left-handers are batting, you don't see a captain opting for two left-arm spinners. It is something captains fear that he might go for runs. But at the same time, some quality bowlers will bowl in every situation. Bowlers like Harbhajan Singh, Ravichandran Ashwin, Washington Sundar who have got quality and variety will always survive. But as I said, in the shorter format you don't have the breathing space to settle down and that goes for a bowler as well so that is where match-ups become important,” Jaffer, who is also the highest run-scorer in Ranji Trophy history, explained. ALSO READ: Exclusive: 'Waited for this opportunity' - Shahrukh Khan aims to make it big for Punjab Kings in IPL 2021 Punjab Kings captain KL Rahul roared back to form for Team India in the recently concluded ODI series against England. However, he faced criticism during the T20I series where he struggled to get it going with the willow with terms such as 'poor form’ and 'rough patch' being thrown around by fans and experts. “I think those terms are bound to come your way in today's world. Such is this sport. But with so many matches being played, the quicker players lose form, the quicker they can get back to the rhythm. Recently, KL Rahul was going through a dry run in the T20I series but he got the ODI series to gain his confidence back. I think it is natural that players won't be able to perform in every match and it is important to not lose focus when you are not scoring big runs or getting wickets,” Jaffer said. In the IPL 2021 auction, Punjab Kings went with the biggest purse and ended up signing some big-name players such as Dawid Malan, Jhye Richardson, Fabian Allen among others. With a static core, Punjab bolstered their squad by adding match-winners and it would be interesting to see how they fare in the tournament. Jaffer is excited by the new additions and looking forward to working with them during the season. List of players bought by Punjab Kings: Dawid Malan (INR 1.5 crore), Jhye Richardson (INR 14 crore), Riley Meredith (INR 8 crore), Moises Henriques (INR 4.2 crore), Jalaj Saxena (INR 30 lakh), Shahrukh Khan (INR 5.25 crore), Utkarsh Singh (INR 20 lakh), Saurabh Kumar (INR 20 lakh) “It has got much more balance as compared to last season. We were lacking bowlers who would back Mohammed Shami. We had Chris Jordan but we needed somebody who can bowl at 145kph in the death overs, where we leaked a lot of runs before. With their additions, it is going to be a bit different this season. Both of them, Jhye and Meredith have got pace. Dawid Malan is the number one T20I batsman. Fabian Allen is another guy who can make a lot of impact down the order and with the ball. So yes, the additions are looking good. ” Jaffer said. ALSO READ: Very humbling experience: Dawid Malan, Sam Billings on interaction with blind cricketers in India And the hustle begins... 🏃‍♂️#SaddaPunjab #PunjabKings pic.twitter.com/TV0JcrX8N2 — Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) March 27, 2021 × With the ICC World Test Championship final and T20 World Cup around the corner, players would want to keep themselves fresh for the showpiece events. With Punjab Kings having key players from the Indian team in their set-up, all eyes would be on them as to how they manage the workload of vital players. Jaffer said that Punjab Kings looked after workload management of key players last season and are looking to do the same this season in a bid to avoid burnout. “We have always looked after our players. Anil bhai (Anil Kumble), Andrew (Andrew Leipus) and the medical staff are there to look after the workload management aspect of the game. We don't our players to suffer from burnout. And even last season, we took care of the workload of our players. It is important to keep the players fresh to get the best out of them,” Jaffer concluded.

IPL 2021: Punjab Kings more balanced squad than last season - Wasim Jaffer to WION

New Zealand batsman Devon Conway has attained a career-best fourth position in the ICC Men’s T20I Player Rankings, thanks to his match-winning knock in the series opener against Bangladesh in Hamilton on Sunday.

The left-hander, who has been keeping wickets in the series, smashed a superb 92 not out off 52 balls as New Zealand posted a massive 210 for three and won that match by 66 runs. He has advanced five positions and finds himself in the top five after only 13 matches, on the back of consistent performances against the West Indies, Pakistan, and Australia since his debut in November 2020.

Glenn Philips, who has unbeaten knocks of 24 and 58 to show and won the player of the match award in the second T20I in Napier as New Zealand took a winning 2-0 lead in the three-match series, has also attained a career-best status. He has moved up 32 places to 26th in the weekly update to the men’s rankings, carried out on Wednesdays.

Fast bowler Tim Southee has advanced two places to seventh, only one shy of his career-best sixth position attained in February this year, after taking three wickets in the first two matches. Lockie Ferguson has moved up 16 places to 42nd in what is another piece of good news for New Zealand, with the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup to be held later this year in India.

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A sizzling 52-ball 92* in the first T20I against Bangladesh has helped Devon Conway continue his rise up the rankings! 
 
He's now No.4 in the <a href="https://twitter.com/MRFWorldwide?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MRFWorldwide</a> ICC Rankings for Men's T20I batting! 🌟 <a href="https://t.co/G66FWmuFX0">pic.twitter.com/G66FWmuFX0</a>
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For Bangladesh, 21-year-old left-handed opener Mohammad Naim has progressed 13 places to reach 28th position after scoring 27 and 38 while Soumya Sarkar has moved up five places to 41st after notching a half-century in Napier.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-am-lucky-that-i-will-be-playing-under-mahi-bhai-cheteshwar-pujara-ahead-of-ipl-2021-374456" hreflang="en">'I am lucky that I will be playing under Mahi bhai': Cheteshwar Pujara ahead of IPL 2021</a>

There are quite a few changes in the&nbsp;ICC Men’s ODI Player Rankings that considered performances from the last match of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Super League series between New Zealand and Bangladesh and the last two of the series between India and England.

England all-rounder Ben Stokes has advanced four places to 24th scoring 99 off 52 balls in the second ODI and is up to second among all-rounders, while Jonny Bairstow has retained seventh place after touching a career-high 796 rating points with his player of the match effort of 124 in the same match. Moeen Ali is up nine places to 46th among bowlers.&nbsp;

For India, Lokesh Rahul has moved up from 31st to 27th, all-rounder Hardik Pandya has achieved a career-best 42nd position among batsmen after scores of 35 and 64, and Rishabh Pant has entered the top 100.

Seam bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who took three for 42 in the final match, has gained nine slots to reach the 11th position, which is his best since being 10th in September 2017. Shardul Thakur’s haul of four for 67 in the same match sees him force his way up to 80th from 93rd.

Bangladesh’s Mahmudullah is up seven places to joint-40th among batsmen after an unbeaten 76 while for New Zealand, Matt Henry has moved up five slots to a career-best third position among bowlers after a haul of four for 27. Jimmy Neesham has gained 16 places to reach 62nd among bowlers.

In the ICC Men’s Test Player Rankings, Sri Lanka’s Niroshan Dickwella and West Indies’ Nkrumah Bonner have gained big after the drawn opening match of their two-Test series.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-will-be-a-talismanic-leader-suresh-raina-on-rishabh-pant-leading-delhi-capitals-374423" hreflang="en">IPL 2021- 'Will be a talismanic leader': Suresh Raina on Rishabh Pant leading Delhi Capitals</a>

Dickwella, who notched his 17th Test half-century – a record for a player without a century – has gained 10 places to reach a career-best 29th position. Bonner’s maiden Test century, in only his third match, has lifted him into the top 50 for the first time.

Oshada Fernando (up 10 places to 72nd), Joshua da Silva (up four places to 77th), and Lahiru Thirmanne (up 14 places to 78th) are other Sri Lanka players to move up the list for batsmen while Suranga Lakmal (up five places to a career-best 22nd), Lasith Embuldeniya (up three places to 38th), Vishwa Fernando (up five places to 47th) and Dushmantha Chameera (up three places to 86th) have advanced among bowlers. 
&nbsp; 
For the West Indies, all-rounder Jason Holder has moved up three places to eighth among bowlers after a haul of five for 27 in Sri Lanka’s first innings while Kemar Roach is up from 14th to 12th. Kyle Mayers has moved up 12 places to 53rd among batsmen.

New Zealand batsman Devon Conway has attained a career-best fourth position in the ICC Men’s T20I Player Rankings, thanks to his match-winning knock in the series opener against Bangladesh in Hamilton on Sunday.

New Zealand batsman Devon Conway has attained a career-best fourth position in the ICC Men’s T20I Player Rankings, thanks to his match-winning knock in the series opener against Bangladesh in Hamilton on Sunday. The left-hander, who has been keeping wickets in the series, smashed a superb 92 not out off 52 balls as New Zealand posted a massive 210 for three and won that match by 66 runs. He has advanced five positions and finds himself in the top five after only 13 matches, on the back of consistent performances against the West Indies, Pakistan, and Australia since his debut in November 2020. Glenn Philips, who has unbeaten knocks of 24 and 58 to show and won the player of the match award in the second T20I in Napier as New Zealand took a winning 2-0 lead in the three-match series, has also attained a career-best status. He has moved up 32 places to 26th in the weekly update to the men’s rankings, carried out on Wednesdays. Fast bowler Tim Southee has advanced two places to seventh, only one shy of his career-best sixth position attained in February this year, after taking three wickets in the first two matches. Lockie Ferguson has moved up 16 places to 42nd in what is another piece of good news for New Zealand, with the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup to be held later this year in India. A sizzling 52-ball 92* in the first T20I against Bangladesh has helped Devon Conway continue his rise up the rankings! He's now No.4 in the @MRFWorldwide ICC Rankings for Men's T20I batting! 🌟 pic.twitter.com/G66FWmuFX0 — ICC (@ICC) March 31, 2021 × For Bangladesh, 21-year-old left-handed opener Mohammad Naim has progressed 13 places to reach 28th position after scoring 27 and 38 while Soumya Sarkar has moved up five places to 41st after notching a half-century in Napier. ALSO READ: 'I am lucky that I will be playing under Mahi bhai': Cheteshwar Pujara ahead of IPL 2021 There are quite a few changes in the ICC Men’s ODI Player Rankings that considered performances from the last match of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Super League series between New Zealand and Bangladesh and the last two of the series between India and England. England all-rounder Ben Stokes has advanced four places to 24th scoring 99 off 52 balls in the second ODI and is up to second among all-rounders, while Jonny Bairstow has retained seventh place after touching a career-high 796 rating points with his player of the match effort of 124 in the same match. Moeen Ali is up nine places to 46th among bowlers. For India, Lokesh Rahul has moved up from 31st to 27th, all-rounder Hardik Pandya has achieved a career-best 42nd position among batsmen after scores of 35 and 64, and Rishabh Pant has entered the top 100. Seam bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who took three for 42 in the final match, has gained nine slots to reach the 11th position, which is his best since being 10th in September 2017. Shardul Thakur’s haul of four for 67 in the same match sees him force his way up to 80th from 93rd. Bangladesh’s Mahmudullah is up seven places to joint-40th among batsmen after an unbeaten 76 while for New Zealand, Matt Henry has moved up five slots to a career-best third position among bowlers after a haul of four for 27. Jimmy Neesham has gained 16 places to reach 62nd among bowlers. In the ICC Men’s Test Player Rankings, Sri Lanka’s Niroshan Dickwella and West Indies’ Nkrumah Bonner have gained big after the drawn opening match of their two-Test series. ALSO READ: IPL 2021- 'Will be a talismanic leader': Suresh Raina on Rishabh Pant leading Delhi Capitals Dickwella, who notched his 17th Test half-century – a record for a player without a century – has gained 10 places to reach a career-best 29th position. Bonner’s maiden Test century, in only his third match, has lifted him into the top 50 for the first time. Oshada Fernando (up 10 places to 72nd), Joshua da Silva (up four places to 77th), and Lahiru Thirmanne (up 14 places to 78th) are other Sri Lanka players to move up the list for batsmen while Suranga Lakmal (up five places to a career-best 22nd), Lasith Embuldeniya (up three places to 38th), Vishwa Fernando (up five places to 47th) and Dushmantha Chameera (up three places to 86th) have advanced among bowlers. For the West Indies, all-rounder Jason Holder has moved up three places to eighth among bowlers after a haul of five for 27 in Sri Lanka’s first innings while Kemar Roach is up from 14th to 12th. Kyle Mayers has moved up 12 places to 53rd among batsmen.

ICC Men's T20I Rankings: Devon Conway attains career-best fourth place as Kohli, Rahul slip

An official announcement on planned radical changes to the format of the UEFA Champions League from 2024 onwards is set to be made on April 19, European football's governing body said on Tuesday.

Last week European Leagues, a body representing the interests of clubs and leagues in 30 countries across the continent, said UEFA would make a decision on the expected changes at a meeting this Wednesday.

UEFA confirmed it will discuss plans at this week's meeting of its executive committee but will wait for the next one before finalising the changes.

"The future of club competitions post-2024 will be one of the topics discussed," UEFA said in a statement.

"However, any official decision in this respect will only be made at the next UEFA executive committee meeting on April 19, in order to finalise ongoing discussions."

The April 19 meeting is also set to see UEFA confirm how it will organise the delayed Euro 2020, which is due to go ahead in 12 cities spread across the continent but could be modified depending on what venues allow spectators to attend games during the Covid-19 pandemic.

However, the Champions League changes -- which are expected to be radical -- will dominate discussions.

The changes are expected to increase the number of clubs involved in the group stage from the current 32 to 36.

The existing group-stage format, consisting of eight groups of four teams, will be completely shaken up.

In its place, UEFA is expected to introduce a single pool and a format known as the 'Swiss system', which will see teams playing 10 games instead of the current six.

No team will face anyone else more than once in a system more commonly used in chess.

The teams finishing in the top eight positions of the single pool will advance to the last 16, with the bottom 12 eliminated.

Meanwhile, the sides finishing between ninth and 24th place will go on to play two-legged play-off ties to decide the final eight slots in the knockout phase.

The knock-out stages will then proceed in the same manner as now, but the changes will mean a large increase in the number of matches played, with a team reaching the final playing a minimum of 17 matches compared to 13 in the present format.

The consequences are a huge increase in the overall number of games played, from 125 to 225, with the total number of group-stage matches jumping from 96 to 180.

An official announcement on planned radical changes to the format of the UEFA Champions League from 2024 onwards is set to be made on April 19, European football's governing body said on Tuesday.

An official announcement on planned radical changes to the format of the UEFA Champions League from 2024 onwards is set to be made on April 19, European football's governing body said on Tuesday. Last week European Leagues, a body representing the interests of clubs and leagues in 30 countries across the continent, said UEFA would make a decision on the expected changes at a meeting this Wednesday. UEFA confirmed it will discuss plans at this week's meeting of its executive committee but will wait for the next one before finalising the changes. "The future of club competitions post-2024 will be one of the topics discussed," UEFA said in a statement. "However, any official decision in this respect will only be made at the next UEFA executive committee meeting on April 19, in order to finalise ongoing discussions." The April 19 meeting is also set to see UEFA confirm how it will organise the delayed Euro 2020, which is due to go ahead in 12 cities spread across the continent but could be modified depending on what venues allow spectators to attend games during the Covid-19 pandemic. However, the Champions League changes -- which are expected to be radical -- will dominate discussions. The changes are expected to increase the number of clubs involved in the group stage from the current 32 to 36. The existing group-stage format, consisting of eight groups of four teams, will be completely shaken up. In its place, UEFA is expected to introduce a single pool and a format known as the 'Swiss system', which will see teams playing 10 games instead of the current six. No team will face anyone else more than once in a system more commonly used in chess. The teams finishing in the top eight positions of the single pool will advance to the last 16, with the bottom 12 eliminated. Meanwhile, the sides finishing between ninth and 24th place will go on to play two-legged play-off ties to decide the final eight slots in the knockout phase. The knock-out stages will then proceed in the same manner as now, but the changes will mean a large increase in the number of matches played, with a team reaching the final playing a minimum of 17 matches compared to 13 in the present format. The consequences are a huge increase in the overall number of games played, from 125 to 225, with the total number of group-stage matches jumping from 96 to 180.

UEFA set to approve new Champions League format at April meeting

Real Madrid star Karim Benzema's trial for "complicity in attempted blackmail" over a sex tape involving former France team-mate Mathieu Valbuena will be held in October, a court official told AFP on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Benzema will be tried in Versailles from October 20-22, the court said.

The 33-year-old striker faces up to five years in prison and a 75,000-euro fine in the case in which four other men are being prosecuted for attempted blackmail.&nbsp;

Benzema made 81 international appearances but has not been selected for his country since the affair came to light in 2015. He has scored 22 goals for Real Madrid this season and is the third top scorer in La Liga with 17.

The October 20 start of the trial coincides with one of the dates UEFA has provisionally set for the third round of matches in next season's Champions League group stage.&nbsp;

He is accused of involvement in a plot to extort money from Valbuena by threatening to make the video public.

Valbuena, who was selected 52 times for France, received a call from a blackmailer who threatened to release the video, and contacted the police.

The case centres on a conversation between the two men in Clairefontaine, the France team's training centre, in October 2015.&nbsp;

Benzema told Valbuena that he could "introduce someone he trusted" to Valbuena, according to the latter, to help him "manage" the possible publication of this compromising video.&nbsp;

"Be careful Math, they're big, big thugs," Benzema reportedly said.

It was a way of "helping" his teammate, Benzema later explained.

Valbuena said he had "the impression of being taken for a fool".&nbsp;

It will be up to the courts to determine whether this exchange was friendly advice or criminal pressure.&nbsp;

Benzema has described the trial as a "farce" in an Instagram post. Real refused to comment on the decision to go to trial.

The footballer has argued during the long investigation into the accusations that a police officer used dishonest methods to draw him into the affair.

The former Liverpool and France forward Djibril Cisse, who had spoken to Valbuena about the sex tape in May 2015, was initially targeted by prosecutors but they decided in January to take no further action against him.

When Benzema was referred to the Versailles criminal court in January, his lawyer Sylvain Cormier said the &nbsp;decision "was as absurd as it was predictable".

Valbuena's lawyer,&nbsp;Paul-Albert Iweins, said it was "the logical next step in an investigation that has perfectly established the participation of different people".&nbsp;

Real Madrid star Karim Benzema's trial for "complicity in attempted blackmail" over a sex tape involving former France team-mate Mathieu Valbuena will be held in October, a court official told AFP on Tuesday.

Real Madrid star Karim Benzema's trial for "complicity in attempted blackmail" over a sex tape involving former France team-mate Mathieu Valbuena will be held in October, a court official told AFP on Tuesday. Benzema will be tried in Versailles from October 20-22, the court said. The 33-year-old striker faces up to five years in prison and a 75,000-euro fine in the case in which four other men are being prosecuted for attempted blackmail. Benzema made 81 international appearances but has not been selected for his country since the affair came to light in 2015. He has scored 22 goals for Real Madrid this season and is the third top scorer in La Liga with 17. The October 20 start of the trial coincides with one of the dates UEFA has provisionally set for the third round of matches in next season's Champions League group stage. He is accused of involvement in a plot to extort money from Valbuena by threatening to make the video public. Valbuena, who was selected 52 times for France, received a call from a blackmailer who threatened to release the video, and contacted the police. The case centres on a conversation between the two men in Clairefontaine, the France team's training centre, in October 2015. Benzema told Valbuena that he could "introduce someone he trusted" to Valbuena, according to the latter, to help him "manage" the possible publication of this compromising video. "Be careful Math, they're big, big thugs," Benzema reportedly said. It was a way of "helping" his teammate, Benzema later explained. Valbuena said he had "the impression of being taken for a fool". It will be up to the courts to determine whether this exchange was friendly advice or criminal pressure. Benzema has described the trial as a "farce" in an Instagram post. Real refused to comment on the decision to go to trial. The footballer has argued during the long investigation into the accusations that a police officer used dishonest methods to draw him into the affair. The former Liverpool and France forward Djibril Cisse, who had spoken to Valbuena about the sex tape in May 2015, was initially targeted by prosecutors but they decided in January to take no further action against him. When Benzema was referred to the Versailles criminal court in January, his lawyer Sylvain Cormier said the decision "was as absurd as it was predictable". Valbuena's lawyer, Paul-Albert Iweins, said it was "the logical next step in an investigation that has perfectly established the participation of different people".

October date set for Benzema's trial in sex tape case

Delhi Capitals on Tuesday announced Rishabh Pant as the captain for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 season while ruling out Shreyas Iyer for the entire tournament due to shoulder injury. After being appointed the captain of Delhi Capitals, Rishabh Pant said that&nbsp;he always dreamt about leading Delhi and the dream has now come true.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Pant, who made his IPL debut in 2016, has come a long way. From being a hard-hitting batsman to become a match-winner for DC and Team India, the youngster has exponentially grown as a player over the years. In the 2018 edition of IPL, Pant hammered an impressive&nbsp;684 runs before being named the vice-captain of Delhi Capitals in IPL 2020.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Pant said that with a top coaching staff and a plethora of experienced players around him, he can't wait to give his best for Delhi Capitals in IPL 2021.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/delhi-capitals-name-rishabh-pant-as-captain-for-ipl-2021-374326" hreflang="en">Delhi Capitals name Rishabh Pant as captain for IPL 2021</a>

"Delhi is where I grew up, and where my IPL journey began six years ago. To lead this team one day is a dream I've always&nbsp;harboured. And today, as that dream comes true, I feel humbled. I am truly grateful, especially to our team owners, who considered me capable enough for this role. With an amazing coaching staff, and a plethora of accomplished seniors around me, I can't wait to give my absolute best for Delhi Capitals,” Pant said after being appointed DC captain for IPL 2021.&nbsp;

Whereas Delhi Capitals Head Coach Ricky Ponting said that this is a tremendous opportunity for Pant while adding successful series against Australia and England will give him the confidence to succeed in the new role.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-waited-for-this-opportunity-shahrukh-khan-aims-to-make-it-big-for-punjab-kings-in-ipl-2021-374299" hreflang="en">Exclusive: 'Waited for this opportunity' - Shahrukh Khan aims to make it big for Punjab Kings in IPL 2021</a>

Ricky Ponting said, “The previous two seasons under Shreyas’ leadership have been incredible, and the results speak for themselves. This is a tremendous opportunity for young Rishabh, who is coming off successful stints against Australia and England which will no doubt give him the confidence needed to take on a new role that comes with a lot more responsibility. The coaching group is excited to work with him, and we can’t wait for the season to get started.”&nbsp;

Rishabh&nbsp;Pant's&nbsp;first match as Delhi Capitals captain will be against MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings on April 10.&nbsp;

Delhi Capitals on Tuesday announced Rishabh Pant as the captain for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 season while ruling out Shreyas Iyer for the entire tournament due to shoulder injury.

Delhi Capitals on Tuesday announced Rishabh Pant as the captain for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 season while ruling out Shreyas Iyer for the entire tournament due to shoulder injury. After being appointed the captain of Delhi Capitals, Rishabh Pant said that he always dreamt about leading Delhi and the dream has now come true. Pant, who made his IPL debut in 2016, has come a long way. From being a hard-hitting batsman to become a match-winner for DC and Team India, the youngster has exponentially grown as a player over the years. In the 2018 edition of IPL, Pant hammered an impressive 684 runs before being named the vice-captain of Delhi Capitals in IPL 2020. Pant said that with a top coaching staff and a plethora of experienced players around him, he can't wait to give his best for Delhi Capitals in IPL 2021. ALSO READ: Delhi Capitals name Rishabh Pant as captain for IPL 2021 "Delhi is where I grew up, and where my IPL journey began six years ago. To lead this team one day is a dream I've always harboured. And today, as that dream comes true, I feel humbled. I am truly grateful, especially to our team owners, who considered me capable enough for this role. With an amazing coaching staff, and a plethora of accomplished seniors around me, I can't wait to give my absolute best for Delhi Capitals,” Pant said after being appointed DC captain for IPL 2021. Whereas Delhi Capitals Head Coach Ricky Ponting said that this is a tremendous opportunity for Pant while adding successful series against Australia and England will give him the confidence to succeed in the new role. ALSO READ: Exclusive: 'Waited for this opportunity' - Shahrukh Khan aims to make it big for Punjab Kings in IPL 2021 Ricky Ponting said, “The previous two seasons under Shreyas’ leadership have been incredible, and the results speak for themselves. This is a tremendous opportunity for young Rishabh, who is coming off successful stints against Australia and England which will no doubt give him the confidence needed to take on a new role that comes with a lot more responsibility. The coaching group is excited to work with him, and we can’t wait for the season to get started.” Rishabh Pant's first match as Delhi Capitals captain will be against MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings on April 10.

'To lead this team one day...': Rishabh Pant reacts as Delhi Capitals announce him as captain for IPL 2021

Delhi Capitals on Tuesday announced Rishabh Pant as captain for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, scheduled to start on April 9. Pant will take the leadership duties from Shreyas Iyer, who will miss the 14th edition of the T20 tournament due to left shoulder injury.

“I would like to wish Shreyas a speedy recovery,” said DC Chairman &amp; Co-owner Mr Kiran Kumar Grandhi on the occasion, “Under Shreyas’ captaincy, our team reached newer heights, and he is going to be missed immensely. In his absence, the franchise has collectively picked Rishabh to lead the team this year. While it has come under unfortunate circumstances, it is a tremendous opportunity for him to grow further. I wish him all the best in his new role.”

“There is no doubt that Shreyas Iyer’s leadership and batting will be missed this year, and we hope to see him back on the field soon,” said team co-owner Mr Parth Jindal, “Delhi Capitals as a team plays a passionate and fearless brand of cricket, and Rishabh Pant embodies that best. The Delhi team has played an important role in his growth as a cricketer, just like he has played an equally important role in the growth of the Delhi team. I wish Rishabh and the team good luck.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-waited-for-this-opportunity-shahrukh-khan-aims-to-make-it-big-for-punjab-kings-in-ipl-2021-374299" hreflang="en">Exclusive: 'Waited for this opportunity' - Shahrukh Khan aims to make it big for Punjab Kings in IPL 2021</a>

Speaking on the latest development, Shreyas Iyer said, “When I sustained the shoulder injury, and Delhi Capitals needed a leader for this edition of the IPL, I had no doubt that Rishabh would be the best man for the job. He has all my good wishes to make amazing things happen with our absolutely incredible team. I’m going to miss the team tremendously, and will be cheering for them throughout.”

On his new role, Rishabh Pant said, "Delhi is where I grew up, and where my IPL journey began six years ago. To lead this team one day is a dream I've always harboured. And today, as that dream comes true, I feel humbled. I am truly grateful, especially to our team owners, who considered me capable enough for this role. With an amazing coaching staff, and a plethora of accomplished seniors around me, I can't wait to give my absolute best for Delhi Capitals."

Meanwhile, Delhi Capitals Head Coach Ricky Ponting said, “The previous two seasons under Shreyas’ leadership have been incredible, and the results speak for themselves. This is a tremendous opportunity for young Rishabh, who is coming off successful stints against Australia and England which will no doubt give him the confidence needed to take on a new role that comes with a lot more responsibility. The coaching group is excited to work with him, and we can’t wait for the season to get started.”

This will be Rishabh Pant’s debut as IPL captain. The 23-year-old wicketkeeper-batsman has captained Delhi’s state team in the past.

Delhi Capitals on Tuesday announced Rishabh Pant as captain for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, scheduled to start on April 9. Pant will take the leadership duties from Shreyas Iyer, who will miss the 14th edition of the T20 tournament due to left shoulder injury.

Delhi Capitals on Tuesday announced Rishabh Pant as captain for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, scheduled to start on April 9. Pant will take the leadership duties from Shreyas Iyer, who will miss the 14th edition of the T20 tournament due to left shoulder injury. “I would like to wish Shreyas a speedy recovery,” said DC Chairman & Co-owner Mr Kiran Kumar Grandhi on the occasion, “Under Shreyas’ captaincy, our team reached newer heights, and he is going to be missed immensely. In his absence, the franchise has collectively picked Rishabh to lead the team this year. While it has come under unfortunate circumstances, it is a tremendous opportunity for him to grow further. I wish him all the best in his new role.” “There is no doubt that Shreyas Iyer’s leadership and batting will be missed this year, and we hope to see him back on the field soon,” said team co-owner Mr Parth Jindal, “Delhi Capitals as a team plays a passionate and fearless brand of cricket, and Rishabh Pant embodies that best. The Delhi team has played an important role in his growth as a cricketer, just like he has played an equally important role in the growth of the Delhi team. I wish Rishabh and the team good luck.” ALSO READ: Exclusive: 'Waited for this opportunity' - Shahrukh Khan aims to make it big for Punjab Kings in IPL 2021 Speaking on the latest development, Shreyas Iyer said, “When I sustained the shoulder injury, and Delhi Capitals needed a leader for this edition of the IPL, I had no doubt that Rishabh would be the best man for the job. He has all my good wishes to make amazing things happen with our absolutely incredible team. I’m going to miss the team tremendously, and will be cheering for them throughout.” On his new role, Rishabh Pant said, "Delhi is where I grew up, and where my IPL journey began six years ago. To lead this team one day is a dream I've always harboured. And today, as that dream comes true, I feel humbled. I am truly grateful, especially to our team owners, who considered me capable enough for this role. With an amazing coaching staff, and a plethora of accomplished seniors around me, I can't wait to give my absolute best for Delhi Capitals." Meanwhile, Delhi Capitals Head Coach Ricky Ponting said, “The previous two seasons under Shreyas’ leadership have been incredible, and the results speak for themselves. This is a tremendous opportunity for young Rishabh, who is coming off successful stints against Australia and England which will no doubt give him the confidence needed to take on a new role that comes with a lot more responsibility. The coaching group is excited to work with him, and we can’t wait for the season to get started.” This will be Rishabh Pant’s debut as IPL captain. The 23-year-old wicketkeeper-batsman has captained Delhi’s state team in the past.

Delhi Capitals name Rishabh Pant as captain for IPL 2021

With cases rising in the India Legends team, who participated in the recently concluded Road Safety World Series, all the players from the Sri Lanka Legends team have been directed to undergo self-quarantine till next Saturday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The likes of Sanath Jayasuriya, Tillakaratne Dilshan, Rangana Herath among other prominent names from Sri Lankan cricket had participated in the Road Safety World Series which was played in front of a packed crowd in Raipur.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While other tournaments and series are mostly being played behind closed doors, Road Safety World Series persisted with having fans inside the stadiums. The move has backfired as four India Legends players have returned positive for COVID-19.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-waited-for-this-opportunity-shahrukh-khan-aims-to-make-it-big-for-punjab-kings-in-ipl-2021-374299" hreflang="en">Exclusive: 'Waited for this opportunity' - Shahrukh Khan aims to make it big for Punjab Kings in IPL 2021</a>

India Legends captain&nbsp;Sachin&nbsp;Tendulkar, Irfan Pathan, Yusuf Pathan, S Badrinath have so far tested positive for coronavirus after participating in the Road Safety World Series.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Given the rise in cases within the India Legends team, Sri Lanka Legends have been instructed by the health officials to self-quarantine till next Saturday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/baffling-bangladesh-witness-dls-target-blunder-in-2nd-t20i-vs-new-zealand-374279" hreflang="en">Baffling! Bangladesh witness DLS target blunder in 2nd T20I vs New Zealand</a>

Sri Lanka Legends had locked horns with India Legends in the final of the Road Safety World Series in which the Tendulkar-led outfit ended up being victorious.&nbsp;&nbsp;

At the end of the Sri Lanka Legends’ quarantine phase, the players will be subject to RT-PCR tests again.&nbsp;

With cases rising in the India Legends team, who participated in the recently concluded Road Safety World Series, all the players from the Sri Lanka Legends team have been directed to undergo self-quarantine till next Saturday.

With cases rising in the India Legends team, who participated in the recently concluded Road Safety World Series, all the players from the Sri Lanka Legends team have been directed to undergo self-quarantine till next Saturday. The likes of Sanath Jayasuriya, Tillakaratne Dilshan, Rangana Herath among other prominent names from Sri Lankan cricket had participated in the Road Safety World Series which was played in front of a packed crowd in Raipur. While other tournaments and series are mostly being played behind closed doors, Road Safety World Series persisted with having fans inside the stadiums. The move has backfired as four India Legends players have returned positive for COVID-19. ALSO READ: Exclusive: 'Waited for this opportunity' - Shahrukh Khan aims to make it big for Punjab Kings in IPL 2021 India Legends captain Sachin Tendulkar, Irfan Pathan, Yusuf Pathan, S Badrinath have so far tested positive for coronavirus after participating in the Road Safety World Series. Given the rise in cases within the India Legends team, Sri Lanka Legends have been instructed by the health officials to self-quarantine till next Saturday. ALSO READ: Baffling! Bangladesh witness DLS target blunder in 2nd T20I vs New Zealand Sri Lanka Legends had locked horns with India Legends in the final of the Road Safety World Series in which the Tendulkar-led outfit ended up being victorious. At the end of the Sri Lanka Legends’ quarantine phase, the players will be subject to RT-PCR tests again.

Sri Lanka Legends under self-quarantine after 4 India Legends players test positive for COVID-19

The long wait to be part of the Indian Premier League (IPL) ended for Tamil Nadu's Shahrukh Khan in the auction ahead of the 14th&nbsp;edition of the tournament when&nbsp;Punjab Kings signed the all-rounder for a whopping INR 5.25 crore. After missing out from the lucrative tournament in the previous season, Shahrukh, standing at 6’ 4'',&nbsp;took his game a&nbsp;notch&nbsp;higher and&nbsp;made a mark as one of the meanest finishers in the Indian domestic set-up.&nbsp;&nbsp;

After impressing in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and Vijay Hazare Trophy, Shahrukh Khan has set his on the Indian Premier League (IPL) where he will be seen donning the Punjab Kings jersey.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Really excited and looking forward to IPL. I have waited for this opportunity to come and now it is time to work hard and help Punjab Kings win matches. I can't wait to share the dressing room and the field with some of the biggest names in world cricket and I am sure I will learn a lot from everyone involved in the team,” Shahrukh Khan told WION in an exclusive interview.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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How can a video featuring Shahrukh Khan not be a HIT⁉️ 😍<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2020</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SaddaPunjab?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SaddaPunjab</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PunjabKings?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PunjabKings</a> <a href="https://t.co/ApRKAFRyiw">pic.twitter.com/ApRKAFRyiw</a>
— Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/PunjabKingsIPL/status/1376493149158182912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 29, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The auction table was set abuzz when Shahrukh's name popped up in the domestic all-rounder's list. The name, resembling Bollywood megastar and Kolkata Knight Riders owner Shah Rukh Khan was one of the factors&nbsp;to garner eyeballs. But those who kept a close eye on the matches in the Indian domestic circuit knew a storm was about to hit the auction in Chennai.&nbsp;

When Shahrukh's name was up in the auction, he was with his Tamil Nadu teammates on the bus for Vijay Hazare Trophy training.&nbsp;Delhi Capitals and Royal Challengers Bangalore were relentless in putting up their paddle up to INR 3.40 crore. After that, enter Punjab Kings who got the hard-hitting all-rounder in their squad after outbidding RCB.

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When you get a certain "Shahrukh Khan" in your side 😉😉 <a href="https://twitter.com/PunjabKingsIPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PunjabKingsIPL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Vivo_India?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Vivo_India</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPLAuction?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPLAuction</a> <a href="https://t.co/z4te9w2EIZ">pic.twitter.com/z4te9w2EIZ</a>
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1362371926514049027?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
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“We were in the team bus and everyone there was very excited when my name popped up in the auction. But honestly, I couldn't enjoy it much as my phone was ringing without a break. We were preparing for the Vijay Hazare Trophy as well so the focus was mainly on it. But yes, it was a very happy and proud moment for me,” Shahrukh recalled.&nbsp;

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Turn up the volume and listen to the team's happiness for our bright ⭐<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPLAuction?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPLAuction</a> <a href="https://t.co/wkDfFbqGGP">pic.twitter.com/wkDfFbqGGP</a>
— DK (@DineshKarthik) <a href="https://twitter.com/DineshKarthik/status/1362405593491804161?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
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In the 2019-20 domestic season, Shahrukh Khan was given the role of a finisher by Tamil Nadu. The hunky all-rounder feels it is a role that changed his career graph. But how tough was it to get into the finisher mode?&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/to-officiate-in-t20-world-cup-and-ashes-is-my-next-target-nitin-menon-to-wion-369471" hreflang="en">To officiate in T20 World Cup and Ashes is my next target: Nitin Menon to WION</a>

“I had opened the innings in Tamil Nadu Premier League and for Tamil Nadu as well because we didn't have an opener in our team and I did well. But I feel my physique, power and&nbsp;strength suit the role of a finisher more.&nbsp;I have worked hard to get into the finisher mode and still learning to master the craft. My game has developed more from&nbsp;the time I was given the role of a finisher. I enjoy the role and to win matches for my team thrills me,” the 25-year-old said.&nbsp;

“I have worked hard to get new strokes in my book. To play wide&nbsp;yorkers, hitting length deliveries, to play out of your skin. These are something you need to have as a modern-day batsman. It is not easy at all and requires plenty of hard work and patience,” he added.&nbsp;

Before the cricketing world could witness what Shahrukh Khan – the finisher – could do down the order with the willow, there were blood, sweat and tears to reach the place. While Tamil Nadu captain Dinesh Karthik and assistant coach&nbsp;R Prasanna ensured Shahrukh leaves no stone unturned to learn his new role in the team, it was&nbsp;Azhariah&nbsp;Prabhakar who&nbsp;kept the youngster on track since he was 15 years old.&nbsp;

<img alt="Shahrukh Khan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="19b8bb1c-48e4-4ec5-9e09-cb1961b30667" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/1612420944_shahrukh-khan.jpg" />

"I have been training under&nbsp;Azhariah&nbsp;Prabhakar since I was 15. I can talk to him about anything, he is like a guardian to me. He has been with me in every failure and success, and I can say I wouldn't have been here without him. He made sure I never diverted from my target.&nbsp;

“R Prasanna and I have had hours of discussions around my game. He made me the fearless cricketer I am at the moment.&nbsp;And Dinesh Karthik is like a father-figure to everyone in the Tamil Nadu squad. He has guided me in every situation and turned me into a finisher.&nbsp;One of the most important aspects he taught me was how to use the crease when you are in that hitting-mode. He gave me the confidence and trust to finish matches. I can't thank Dinesh enough for what he has done for me,” the all-rounder explained.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-punjab-kings-squad-built-keeping-every-challenge-in-mind-ceo-satish-menon-to-wion-367171" hreflang="en">Exclusive: Punjab Kings squad built keeping every challenge in mind: CEO Satish Menon to WION</a>

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Congratulations to Tamil Nadu boys Shahrukh Khan, Hari Nishanth &amp; Siddharth Manimaran! 
 
Will be great to see these young guns setting the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2021</a> on 🔥... hopefully not against KKR 😜<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPLAuction?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPLAuction</a> <a href="https://t.co/hbbQIkXa1G">pic.twitter.com/hbbQIkXa1G</a>
— DK (@DineshKarthik) <a href="https://twitter.com/DineshKarthik/status/1362439213518516225?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Shahrukh's off-spin has also caught the eyes of many cricket fans and pundits. In the world of T20 cricket, it is a bonus to have a player with multiple skill-sets.&nbsp;While he is not a polished bowler yet, Sharukh is keen to learn more about bowling from Punjab Kings’&nbsp;Director&nbsp;of Cricket Operations Anil Kumble.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I was bowling medium pace when at Red Bull Campus Cricket but then switched to off-spin. Bowling is something I really want to improve as I gain experience at the top level. I feel it is important to have good skills in all three departments of the game. Anil sir (Anil Kumble) has told me that we will work on my bowling and I am looking forward to picking his brain and learn as much as I can,” Shahrukh said.&nbsp;

With quarantine over and Punjab Kings taking the field for practice and preparations for IPL 2021, Shahrukh Khan is excited about playing under the leadership of KL Rahul as he said the calm&nbsp;demeanour of the Punjab Kings skipper impresses him the most. He is also looking forward to sharing the dressing room and field with some of the biggest names in world cricket.&nbsp;

“The squad looks great. KL Rahul comes across as a very calm and composed guy and that is something I really like about him when I watch him play. He was superb as a captain last season in how he handled different situations. Punjab Kings have some big-name players and I am looking forward to learning from them. Being with them will definitely help me to improve my game,” Shahrukh said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-england-favourites-to-win-t20-world-cup-but-dont-rule-out-india-ryan-sidebottom-370657" hreflang="en">Exclusive: England favourites to win T20 World Cup but don't rule out India - Ryan Sidebottom</a>

When asked what is his favourite format of the game, Shahrukh quipped: "Currently, I am enjoying T20 cricket but Test cricket has always been my favourite."

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IPL 20201 commences from April 9 with Punjab Kings playing their season opener against Rajasthan Royals on April 12 in Chennai.&nbsp;

The long wait to be part of the Indian Premier League (IPL) ended for Tamil Nadu's Shahrukh Khan in the auction ahead of the 14th edition of the tournament when Punjab Kings signed the all-rounder for a whopping INR 5.

The long wait to be part of the Indian Premier League (IPL) ended for Tamil Nadu's Shahrukh Khan in the auction ahead of the 14th edition of the tournament when Punjab Kings signed the all-rounder for a whopping INR 5.25 crore. After missing out from the lucrative tournament in the previous season, Shahrukh, standing at 6’ 4'', took his game a notch higher and made a mark as one of the meanest finishers in the Indian domestic set-up. After impressing in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and Vijay Hazare Trophy, Shahrukh Khan has set his on the Indian Premier League (IPL) where he will be seen donning the Punjab Kings jersey. “Really excited and looking forward to IPL. I have waited for this opportunity to come and now it is time to work hard and help Punjab Kings win matches. I can't wait to share the dressing room and the field with some of the biggest names in world cricket and I am sure I will learn a lot from everyone involved in the team,” Shahrukh Khan told WION in an exclusive interview. How can a video featuring Shahrukh Khan not be a HIT⁉️ 😍#IPL2020 #SaddaPunjab #PunjabKings pic.twitter.com/ApRKAFRyiw — Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) March 29, 2021 × The auction table was set abuzz when Shahrukh's name popped up in the domestic all-rounder's list. The name, resembling Bollywood megastar and Kolkata Knight Riders owner Shah Rukh Khan was one of the factors to garner eyeballs. But those who kept a close eye on the matches in the Indian domestic circuit knew a storm was about to hit the auction in Chennai. When Shahrukh's name was up in the auction, he was with his Tamil Nadu teammates on the bus for Vijay Hazare Trophy training. Delhi Capitals and Royal Challengers Bangalore were relentless in putting up their paddle up to INR 3.40 crore. After that, enter Punjab Kings who got the hard-hitting all-rounder in their squad after outbidding RCB. When you get a certain "Shahrukh Khan" in your side 😉😉 @PunjabKingsIPL @Vivo_India #IPLAuction pic.twitter.com/z4te9w2EIZ — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) February 18, 2021 × “We were in the team bus and everyone there was very excited when my name popped up in the auction. But honestly, I couldn't enjoy it much as my phone was ringing without a break. We were preparing for the Vijay Hazare Trophy as well so the focus was mainly on it. But yes, it was a very happy and proud moment for me,” Shahrukh recalled. Turn up the volume and listen to the team's happiness for our bright ⭐#IPLAuction pic.twitter.com/wkDfFbqGGP — DK (@DineshKarthik) February 18, 2021 × In the 2019-20 domestic season, Shahrukh Khan was given the role of a finisher by Tamil Nadu. The hunky all-rounder feels it is a role that changed his career graph. But how tough was it to get into the finisher mode? ALSO READ: To officiate in T20 World Cup and Ashes is my next target: Nitin Menon to WION “I had opened the innings in Tamil Nadu Premier League and for Tamil Nadu as well because we didn't have an opener in our team and I did well. But I feel my physique, power and strength suit the role of a finisher more. I have worked hard to get into the finisher mode and still learning to master the craft. My game has developed more from the time I was given the role of a finisher. I enjoy the role and to win matches for my team thrills me,” the 25-year-old said. “I have worked hard to get new strokes in my book. To play wide yorkers, hitting length deliveries, to play out of your skin. These are something you need to have as a modern-day batsman. It is not easy at all and requires plenty of hard work and patience,” he added. Before the cricketing world could witness what Shahrukh Khan – the finisher – could do down the order with the willow, there were blood, sweat and tears to reach the place. While Tamil Nadu captain Dinesh Karthik and assistant coach R Prasanna ensured Shahrukh leaves no stone unturned to learn his new role in the team, it was Azhariah Prabhakar who kept the youngster on track since he was 15 years old. "I have been training under Azhariah Prabhakar since I was 15. I can talk to him about anything, he is like a guardian to me. He has been with me in every failure and success, and I can say I wouldn't have been here without him. He made sure I never diverted from my target. “R Prasanna and I have had hours of discussions around my game. He made me the fearless cricketer I am at the moment. And Dinesh Karthik is like a father-figure to everyone in the Tamil Nadu squad. He has guided me in every situation and turned me into a finisher. One of the most important aspects he taught me was how to use the crease when you are in that hitting-mode. He gave me the confidence and trust to finish matches. I can't thank Dinesh enough for what he has done for me,” the all-rounder explained. ALSO READ: Exclusive: Punjab Kings squad built keeping every challenge in mind: CEO Satish Menon to WION Congratulations to Tamil Nadu boys Shahrukh Khan, Hari Nishanth & Siddharth Manimaran! Will be great to see these young guns setting the #IPL2021 on 🔥... hopefully not against KKR 😜#IPLAuction pic.twitter.com/hbbQIkXa1G — DK (@DineshKarthik) February 18, 2021 × Shahrukh's off-spin has also caught the eyes of many cricket fans and pundits. In the world of T20 cricket, it is a bonus to have a player with multiple skill-sets. While he is not a polished bowler yet, Sharukh is keen to learn more about bowling from Punjab Kings’ Director of Cricket Operations Anil Kumble. “I was bowling medium pace when at Red Bull Campus Cricket but then switched to off-spin. Bowling is something I really want to improve as I gain experience at the top level. I feel it is important to have good skills in all three departments of the game. Anil sir (Anil Kumble) has told me that we will work on my bowling and I am looking forward to picking his brain and learn as much as I can,” Shahrukh said. With quarantine over and Punjab Kings taking the field for practice and preparations for IPL 2021, Shahrukh Khan is excited about playing under the leadership of KL Rahul as he said the calm demeanour of the Punjab Kings skipper impresses him the most. He is also looking forward to sharing the dressing room and field with some of the biggest names in world cricket. “The squad looks great. KL Rahul comes across as a very calm and composed guy and that is something I really like about him when I watch him play. He was superb as a captain last season in how he handled different situations. Punjab Kings have some big-name players and I am looking forward to learning from them. Being with them will definitely help me to improve my game,” Shahrukh said. ALSO READ: Exclusive: England favourites to win T20 World Cup but don't rule out India - Ryan Sidebottom When asked what is his favourite format of the game, Shahrukh quipped: "Currently, I am enjoying T20 cricket but Test cricket has always been my favourite." View this post on Instagram A post shared by sharukhKhan🏏 (@shahrukhkhan.35) × IPL 20201 commences from April 9 with Punjab Kings playing their season opener against Rajasthan Royals on April 12 in Chennai.

Exclusive: 'Waited for this opportunity' - Shahrukh Khan aims to make it big for Punjab Kings in IPL 2021

Sergio Aguero's departure from Manchester City looks set to kick-start a "derby" between City and Manchester United for the signature of Europe's hottest striking talent - Borussia Dortmund's Erling Haaland.

City announced on Monday that their all-time top scorer Aguero would leave the club at the end of the season, leaving manager Pep Guardiola, who has only one other central striker in Gabriel Jesus, badly in need of a top-quality striker.

The 20-year-old Haaland, widely reported to be City's number one choice, was close to joining local rivals Manchester United last January before moving to Dortmund.

United remain firmly interested in signing the prolific forward who worked under their Norwegian manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer as an emerging talent with Molde.

Haaland's goalscoring record is extraordinary: Since joining Dortmund from RB Salzburg he has scored 49 goals in 49 games in all competitions. At the highest level, in the Champions League, Haaland has scored 12 goals in eight games.

The blond-haired striker made his mark with eight goals in six Champions League games with Salzburg along with 29 in 27 appearances in the Austrian league.

Last year he was available for just 20 million euros based on a buyout clause in his deal with Salzburg, and given Solskjaer's relationship with Haaland, United were confident of signing the continent's most exciting goalscorer at a bargain price.

But Haaland's agent Mino Raiola, who is also Paul Pogba's representative, has had a turbulent relationship with the Old Trafford hierarchy, whom he has publicly criticised.

The forward opted to join Dortmund, but Raiola suggested on Tuesday that may have been a mistake.

"With Haaland, everybody was wrong. He did things much quicker than everybody imagined," the Dutch-Italian agent told The Athletic website.

"Haaland is in front of his own development. He is ahead of his own schedule. Maybe I was too careful when I said, 'Oh no, let's move to Dortmund instead of I-don't-know-where'," he said.

"I'm 100% convinced and everybody's convinced — (he) can move to any club, wherever he wants, already on this level. And he could have done that last year," he said.

United recently promoted John Murtough to be their Football Director, effectively heading the club's transfer strategy, and he will quickly be under pressure to deliver some major upgrades for Solskjaer ahead of next season.

United have struggled to land high-profile targets in recent years, and as well as missing out on Haaland, failed to reach agreement with Dortmund on England winger Jadon Sancho last year.

City have a much better record in signing their top targets, and adding to the mix, Haaland's father Alf-Inge also played for the club.

United and City each have the resources to make the right offer to both Dortmund and the player, but it would be no surprise if other top European clubs were to join the race in what could become a record-breaking deal.

Sergio Aguero's departure from Manchester City looks set to kick-start a "derby" between City and Manchester United for the signature of Europe's hottest striking talent - Borussia Dortmund's Erling Haaland.

Sergio Aguero's departure from Manchester City looks set to kick-start a "derby" between City and Manchester United for the signature of Europe's hottest striking talent - Borussia Dortmund's Erling Haaland. City announced on Monday that their all-time top scorer Aguero would leave the club at the end of the season, leaving manager Pep Guardiola, who has only one other central striker in Gabriel Jesus, badly in need of a top-quality striker. The 20-year-old Haaland, widely reported to be City's number one choice, was close to joining local rivals Manchester United last January before moving to Dortmund. United remain firmly interested in signing the prolific forward who worked under their Norwegian manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer as an emerging talent with Molde. Haaland's goalscoring record is extraordinary: Since joining Dortmund from RB Salzburg he has scored 49 goals in 49 games in all competitions. At the highest level, in the Champions League, Haaland has scored 12 goals in eight games. The blond-haired striker made his mark with eight goals in six Champions League games with Salzburg along with 29 in 27 appearances in the Austrian league. Last year he was available for just 20 million euros based on a buyout clause in his deal with Salzburg, and given Solskjaer's relationship with Haaland, United were confident of signing the continent's most exciting goalscorer at a bargain price. But Haaland's agent Mino Raiola, who is also Paul Pogba's representative, has had a turbulent relationship with the Old Trafford hierarchy, whom he has publicly criticised. The forward opted to join Dortmund, but Raiola suggested on Tuesday that may have been a mistake. "With Haaland, everybody was wrong. He did things much quicker than everybody imagined," the Dutch-Italian agent told The Athletic website. "Haaland is in front of his own development. He is ahead of his own schedule. Maybe I was too careful when I said, 'Oh no, let's move to Dortmund instead of I-don't-know-where'," he said. "I'm 100% convinced and everybody's convinced — (he) can move to any club, wherever he wants, already on this level. And he could have done that last year," he said. United recently promoted John Murtough to be their Football Director, effectively heading the club's transfer strategy, and he will quickly be under pressure to deliver some major upgrades for Solskjaer ahead of next season. United have struggled to land high-profile targets in recent years, and as well as missing out on Haaland, failed to reach agreement with Dortmund on England winger Jadon Sancho last year. City have a much better record in signing their top targets, and adding to the mix, Haaland's father Alf-Inge also played for the club. United and City each have the resources to make the right offer to both Dortmund and the player, but it would be no surprise if other top European clubs were to join the race in what could become a record-breaking deal.

Aguero's City exit kick-starts Manchester race to sign Haaland

The second T20I between New Zealand and Bangladesh at the Napier Park in Napier became the talk of the town for a bizarre incident on Tuesday.&nbsp;New Zealand, batting first, posted 173 runs on board in17.5 overs in what has been a rain-affected match between the two sides. However, in what can be called a strange incident, Bangladesh started their chase without knowing the official target.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The cricketing world was left baffled as Bangladesh openers Liton Das and Mohammad Naim started the second innings without an official target announced by the match referee. It was only during the second over of the Bangladesh chase when the visiting dressing room saw some movement.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Before the start of the second over, Bangladesh&nbsp;were&nbsp;of the view that they were chasing 148 runs from 16 overs after the target was revised in accordance with the DLS method. However, Bangladesh coach Russell Domingo was seen&nbsp;rushing to the match referee's room to check what the confusion was all about.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-position-available-justin-langer-reacts-to-steve-smiths-captaincy-comments-374268" hreflang="en">'No position available': Justin Langer reacts to Steve Smith's 'captaincy' comments</a>

After 1.3 overs, the match witnessed a delay after the confusion was conveyed to the on-field umpires. The players were seen having drinks during the break while officials including match referee Jeff Crowe in the box were involved in a discussion.&nbsp;

Bangladesh&nbsp;were&nbsp;then handed a revised target of 170 but many on social media said that: according to DLS 4.0 version, the revised target should have been 171.&nbsp;&nbsp;

New Zealand all-rounder James Neesham was also taken aback by the incident:&nbsp;How is it possible to start a run chase without knowing what you’re chasing? Crazy stuff. #NZvBAN

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How is it possible to start a run chase without knowing what you’re chasing? Crazy stuff. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NZvBAN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NZvBAN</a>
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The play continued as Bangladesh batsmen got on with their chase.&nbsp;

However, during the 14th&nbsp;over of the chase, the target was again revised back to 171, bringing more confusion into the scene.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/braithwaite-defies-sri-lanka-bowling-in-second-test-374239" hreflang="en">Braithwaite defies Sri Lanka bowling in second Test</a>

New Zealand went on to win the match by 28 runs (DLS) method after Bangladesh could manage just 142/7 in 16 overs.&nbsp;

“There was some confusion, and the DLS kept changing, but that can happen in the game. First ten overs we were on track but we didn't finish well enough. I think Naim and Soumya gave us momentum, but Phillips and Sodhi were extremely good and we couldn't capitalize on their overs, and if we capitalize on those chances, we can go on to win. Taskin took a brilliant catch, and that gave us a lot of confidence, but it's important to finish well in the T20 format. Our top order has been great, and hopefully we take that positive into the next game,” said Bangladesh captain&nbsp;Mahmudullah&nbsp;after the end of the match.&nbsp;

Umpires: Chris Brown (NZL), Chris Gaffaney (NZL)&nbsp;

TV Umpire: Wayne Knights (NZL)

Match Referee: Jeff Crowe (NZL)

The second T20I between New Zealand and Bangladesh at the Napier Park in Napier became the talk of the town for a bizarre incident on Tuesday. New Zealand, batting first, posted 173 runs on board in17.

The second T20I between New Zealand and Bangladesh at the Napier Park in Napier became the talk of the town for a bizarre incident on Tuesday. New Zealand, batting first, posted 173 runs on board in17.5 overs in what has been a rain-affected match between the two sides. However, in what can be called a strange incident, Bangladesh started their chase without knowing the official target. The cricketing world was left baffled as Bangladesh openers Liton Das and Mohammad Naim started the second innings without an official target announced by the match referee. It was only during the second over of the Bangladesh chase when the visiting dressing room saw some movement. Before the start of the second over, Bangladesh were of the view that they were chasing 148 runs from 16 overs after the target was revised in accordance with the DLS method. However, Bangladesh coach Russell Domingo was seen rushing to the match referee's room to check what the confusion was all about. ALSO READ: 'No position available': Justin Langer reacts to Steve Smith's 'captaincy' comments After 1.3 overs, the match witnessed a delay after the confusion was conveyed to the on-field umpires. The players were seen having drinks during the break while officials including match referee Jeff Crowe in the box were involved in a discussion. Bangladesh were then handed a revised target of 170 but many on social media said that: according to DLS 4.0 version, the revised target should have been 171. New Zealand all-rounder James Neesham was also taken aback by the incident: How is it possible to start a run chase without knowing what you’re chasing? Crazy stuff. #NZvBAN How is it possible to start a run chase without knowing what you’re chasing? Crazy stuff. #NZvBAN — Jimmy Neesham (@JimmyNeesh) March 30, 2021 × The play continued as Bangladesh batsmen got on with their chase. However, during the 14th over of the chase, the target was again revised back to 171, bringing more confusion into the scene. ALSO READ: Braithwaite defies Sri Lanka bowling in second Test New Zealand went on to win the match by 28 runs (DLS) method after Bangladesh could manage just 142/7 in 16 overs. “There was some confusion, and the DLS kept changing, but that can happen in the game. First ten overs we were on track but we didn't finish well enough. I think Naim and Soumya gave us momentum, but Phillips and Sodhi were extremely good and we couldn't capitalize on their overs, and if we capitalize on those chances, we can go on to win. Taskin took a brilliant catch, and that gave us a lot of confidence, but it's important to finish well in the T20 format. Our top order has been great, and hopefully we take that positive into the next game,” said Bangladesh captain Mahmudullah after the end of the match. Umpires: Chris Brown (NZL), Chris Gaffaney (NZL) TV Umpire: Wayne Knights (NZL) Match Referee: Jeff Crowe (NZL)

Baffling! Bangladesh witness DLS target blunder in 2nd T20I vs New Zealand

Head coach Justin Langer has reacted to Steve Smith's statement on being open to captaining the Australia cricket team if the opportunity arises in the future. Hours after Smith said he would be keen to lead Australia again, Langer has said that&nbsp;the team has two very good captains in Tim Pain (Tests) and Aaron Finch (limited-overs).&nbsp;

"We have two very good captains and two important competitions coming up -- an Ashes and a T20 World Cup. Our future looks good," Langer told the ABC, as reported by Fox Sports.&nbsp;

"Despite the media chatter there is no captaincy position available," he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;

On Monday, Smith opened up about his willingness to lead Australia. He was removed from the captaincy role following the&nbsp;infamous&nbsp;Sandpaper Gate saga in the Cape Town Test against South Africa in March 2018.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-thisara-perera-smashes-6-sixes-becomes-first-sri-lankan-to-achieve-the-iconic-feat-374099" hreflang="en">Watch: Thisara Perera smashes 6 sixes, becomes first Sri Lankan to achieve the iconic feat</a>

"I've certainly had a lot of time to think about it and I guess now I've got to a point where if the opportunity did come up again, I would be keen," Smith had told News Corp.&nbsp;

"If it was what Cricket Australia wanted and it was what was best for the team at the time, it's certainly something I would be interested in now, that's for sure," he added.&nbsp;

Smith along with David Warner was banned from international cricket by Cricket Australia for a year while Cameron Bancroft was given a nine-month suspension.&nbsp;

"Time keeps moving forward, and I've learnt so much the last few years about myself and grown as a human being. I feel as though I'd be in a better place if the opportunity did come up. If it doesn't, that's fine as well and I'd support whoever is in charge the same way I've supported Tim and&nbsp;Finchy. I haven't always felt like I wanted to do it again. That's only come in the last little bit," said Smith.&nbsp;&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2021-who-will-captain-delhi-capitals-in-absence-of-shreyas-iyer-check-the-list-of-options-372866" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Who will captain Delhi Capitals in absence of Shreyas Iyer? Check the list of options</a>

However, there has been pressure on Paine since Australia's home series defeat against India and there have been calls to replace the Test captain.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Smith will be seen playing in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 starting April 9 for Delhi Capitals.&nbsp;

Head coach Justin Langer has reacted to Steve Smith's statement on being open to captaining the Australia cricket team if the opportunity arises in the future. Hours after Smith said he would be keen to lead Australia again, Langer has said that the team has two very good captains in Tim Pain (Tests) and Aaron Finch (limited-overs).

Head coach Justin Langer has reacted to Steve Smith's statement on being open to captaining the Australia cricket team if the opportunity arises in the future. Hours after Smith said he would be keen to lead Australia again, Langer has said that the team has two very good captains in Tim Pain (Tests) and Aaron Finch (limited-overs). "We have two very good captains and two important competitions coming up -- an Ashes and a T20 World Cup. Our future looks good," Langer told the ABC, as reported by Fox Sports. "Despite the media chatter there is no captaincy position available," he added. On Monday, Smith opened up about his willingness to lead Australia. He was removed from the captaincy role following the infamous Sandpaper Gate saga in the Cape Town Test against South Africa in March 2018. ALSO READ: Watch: Thisara Perera smashes 6 sixes, becomes first Sri Lankan to achieve the iconic feat "I've certainly had a lot of time to think about it and I guess now I've got to a point where if the opportunity did come up again, I would be keen," Smith had told News Corp. "If it was what Cricket Australia wanted and it was what was best for the team at the time, it's certainly something I would be interested in now, that's for sure," he added. Smith along with David Warner was banned from international cricket by Cricket Australia for a year while Cameron Bancroft was given a nine-month suspension. "Time keeps moving forward, and I've learnt so much the last few years about myself and grown as a human being. I feel as though I'd be in a better place if the opportunity did come up. If it doesn't, that's fine as well and I'd support whoever is in charge the same way I've supported Tim and Finchy. I haven't always felt like I wanted to do it again. That's only come in the last little bit," said Smith. IN PICS | IPL 2021: Who will captain Delhi Capitals in absence of Shreyas Iyer? Check the list of options However, there has been pressure on Paine since Australia's home series defeat against India and there have been calls to replace the Test captain. Smith will be seen playing in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 starting April 9 for Delhi Capitals.

'No position available': Justin Langer reacts to Steve Smith's 'captaincy' comments

India opener Shafali Verma’s blistering 30-ball 60 in the final match of the home series against South Africa has helped garner 26 rating points and consolidate her position at the top of the ICC Women’s T20I Player Rankings.

Verma, who had regained the top position among batters last week, is now on 776 rating points and enjoys a 35-point lead over Australia’s Beth Mooney. Verma’s opening partner Smriti Mandhana, with whom she was associated in a decisive 96-run stand, has gained one spot and is sixth after her unbeaten 48 off 28 deliveries.

Left-arm spinner Rajeshwari Gayakwad’s match-winning haul of three for nine has lifted her 12 places to a career-best 13th position among bowlers and seam bowler Arundhati Reddy has gained 15 places to reach 56th position in the latest weekly update to the women’s rankings, carried out on Tuesdays and based on performances in matches completed till Monday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mumbai-indians-will-be-hard-to-beat-in-ipl-2021-says-sunil-gavaskar-374248" hreflang="en">Mumbai Indians will be hard to beat in IPL 2021, says Sunil Gavaskar</a>

For South Africa, who won the series 2-1, captain Sune Luus has gained one slot to reach 37th among batters after her knock of 28 while fast bowler Tumi Sekhukhune is in 42nd position after gaining seven slots. All-rounder Nadine de Klerk has advanced two slots to catch up with compatriot Moseline Daniels at joint-66th place.

In Tuesday’s update, which also considered performances in the first match between New Zealand and Australia in Hamilton on Sunday, Australia all-rounder Ashleigh Gardner’s unbeaten 73 has helped her gain five places to reach a career-best 11th position.

Leg-spinner Georgia Wareham has risen back to a career best-matching 10th position after gaining two slots while Nicola Carey has moved up from 60th to 57th in what is another notable gain for Australia’s bowlers after their six-wicket victory.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-thisara-perera-smashes-6-sixes-becomes-first-sri-lankan-to-achieve-the-iconic-feat-374099" hreflang="en">Watch: Thisara Perera smashes 6 sixes, becomes first Sri Lankan to achieve the iconic feat</a>

For New Zealand, former captain Amy Satterthwaite’s knock of 40 has helped her gain one slot and reach 27th position. All-rounder Amelia Kerr has moved up 10 slots to 71st among batters and Maddy Green is up three places to 87th. Rosemary Mair (up seven places to 46th) and Jess Kerr (up 38 places to 92nd) have advanced among bowlers.

India opener Shafali Verma’s blistering 30-ball 60 in the final match of the home series against South Africa has helped garner 26 rating points and consolidate her position at the top of the ICC Women’s T20I Player Rankings.

India opener Shafali Verma’s blistering 30-ball 60 in the final match of the home series against South Africa has helped garner 26 rating points and consolidate her position at the top of the ICC Women’s T20I Player Rankings. Verma, who had regained the top position among batters last week, is now on 776 rating points and enjoys a 35-point lead over Australia’s Beth Mooney. Verma’s opening partner Smriti Mandhana, with whom she was associated in a decisive 96-run stand, has gained one spot and is sixth after her unbeaten 48 off 28 deliveries. Left-arm spinner Rajeshwari Gayakwad’s match-winning haul of three for nine has lifted her 12 places to a career-best 13th position among bowlers and seam bowler Arundhati Reddy has gained 15 places to reach 56th position in the latest weekly update to the women’s rankings, carried out on Tuesdays and based on performances in matches completed till Monday. ALSO READ: Mumbai Indians will be hard to beat in IPL 2021, says Sunil Gavaskar For South Africa, who won the series 2-1, captain Sune Luus has gained one slot to reach 37th among batters after her knock of 28 while fast bowler Tumi Sekhukhune is in 42nd position after gaining seven slots. All-rounder Nadine de Klerk has advanced two slots to catch up with compatriot Moseline Daniels at joint-66th place. In Tuesday’s update, which also considered performances in the first match between New Zealand and Australia in Hamilton on Sunday, Australia all-rounder Ashleigh Gardner’s unbeaten 73 has helped her gain five places to reach a career-best 11th position. Leg-spinner Georgia Wareham has risen back to a career best-matching 10th position after gaining two slots while Nicola Carey has moved up from 60th to 57th in what is another notable gain for Australia’s bowlers after their six-wicket victory. ALSO READ: Watch: Thisara Perera smashes 6 sixes, becomes first Sri Lankan to achieve the iconic feat For New Zealand, former captain Amy Satterthwaite’s knock of 40 has helped her gain one slot and reach 27th position. All-rounder Amelia Kerr has moved up 10 slots to 71st among batters and Maddy Green is up three places to 87th. Rosemary Mair (up seven places to 46th) and Jess Kerr (up 38 places to 92nd) have advanced among bowlers.

Shafali Verma consolidates position at top in ICC Women's T20I Player Rankings

Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar has backed Mumbai Indians to make a hat-trick of Indian Premier League (IPL) title wins in the upcoming 14th&nbsp;edition of the T20 tournament, scheduled to start from April 9. Gavaskar&nbsp;pointed out that the Mumbai Indians players have been in a rich run of form in the build-up to the IPL 2021 while adding the five-time champions would be a hard team to beat.&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma will look to become the first skipper in IPL history to pull off a hat-trick of IPL trophy wins after lifting the coveted trophy in 2019 and 2020.&nbsp;

The likes of Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan and Pandya brothers were in their element during the recently concluded T20I and ODI series against England.&nbsp;

"I think Mumbai Indians will be hard to beat. We have seen their players coming to form. Ishan Kishan and Suryakumar Yadav, the way they batted. Mumbai Indian players who took part in this T20I series and ODI series have shown they are in good form," Gavaskar told Star Sports.

TRENDING:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-thisara-perera-smashes-6-sixes-becomes-first-sri-lankan-to-achieve-the-iconic-feat-374099" hreflang="en">Watch: Thisara Perera smashes 6 sixes, becomes first Sri Lankan to achieve the iconic feat</a>

"The way Hardik Pandya has come to the party not just for Mumbai Indians, it was important for Indian cricket to see him bowl 9 overs. It means he is ready to play 9 overs. It (the World Test Championship final) is going to be in June, there is still time for that but the way he has come back is very good for Mumbai and Indian cricket," Gavaskar added.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, all of the Mumbai Indians players who were involved in the India-England series have joined the franchise and have started gearing up for the lucrative T20 tournament.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-virat-kohli-to-join-royal-challengers-bangalore-squad-in-chennai-on-april-1-374120" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Virat Kohli to join Royal Challengers Bangalore squad in Chennai on April 1</a>

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 commences from April 9 with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) locking horns with Mumbai Indians (MI) in the season opener.&nbsp;

Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar has backed Mumbai Indians to make a hat-trick of Indian Premier League (IPL) title wins in the upcoming 14th edition of the T20 tournament, scheduled to start from April 9.

Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar has backed Mumbai Indians to make a hat-trick of Indian Premier League (IPL) title wins in the upcoming 14th edition of the T20 tournament, scheduled to start from April 9. Gavaskar pointed out that the Mumbai Indians players have been in a rich run of form in the build-up to the IPL 2021 while adding the five-time champions would be a hard team to beat. Rohit Sharma will look to become the first skipper in IPL history to pull off a hat-trick of IPL trophy wins after lifting the coveted trophy in 2019 and 2020. The likes of Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan and Pandya brothers were in their element during the recently concluded T20I and ODI series against England. "I think Mumbai Indians will be hard to beat. We have seen their players coming to form. Ishan Kishan and Suryakumar Yadav, the way they batted. Mumbai Indian players who took part in this T20I series and ODI series have shown they are in good form," Gavaskar told Star Sports. TRENDING: Watch: Thisara Perera smashes 6 sixes, becomes first Sri Lankan to achieve the iconic feat "The way Hardik Pandya has come to the party not just for Mumbai Indians, it was important for Indian cricket to see him bowl 9 overs. It means he is ready to play 9 overs. It (the World Test Championship final) is going to be in June, there is still time for that but the way he has come back is very good for Mumbai and Indian cricket," Gavaskar added. Meanwhile, all of the Mumbai Indians players who were involved in the India-England series have joined the franchise and have started gearing up for the lucrative T20 tournament. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Virat Kohli to join Royal Challengers Bangalore squad in Chennai on April 1 The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 commences from April 9 with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) locking horns with Mumbai Indians (MI) in the season opener.

Mumbai Indians will be hard to beat in IPL 2021, says Sunil Gavaskar

Denmark on Sunday joined Norway and other European national teams in a growing movement protesting against the treatment of migrant workers involved in building venues for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

Danish players wore jerseys with the slogan "Football supports CHANGE" as they lined up for a photograph before their World Cup qualifier against Moldova, with the Danish Football Union saying the shirts would be put up for sale and the money given to migrant workers in the Gulf state.

Players from Germany and the Netherlands have also protested in recent days as the European qualifying campaign begins for the 2022 tournament, the hosting of which was controversially awarded a decade ago to Qatar.

Norway players, including superstar striker Erling Braut Haaland, donned t-shirts with the slogan 'Human rights, on and off the pitch' prior to their game in Gibraltar on Wednesday.

Germany players then undertook a similar action before taking on Iceland the next day, lining up in T-shirts which spelled the message 'Human Rights'.

"We have the World Cup coming up and there will be discussions about it... we wanted to show we are not ignoring that," said Bayern Munich midfielder Leon Goretzka.

"We have a large reach -- and we can use it to set an example for the values we want to stand for."

The Dutch team joined in prior to kick-off in their game against Latvia in Amsterdam on Saturday and the movement raises the question of whether players, or national federations, would be prepared to actually boycott the World Cup.

Several Norwegian clubs had already spoken out in favour of a boycott before their national team's action. The Norwegian Football Federation is expected to debate the issue at a special congress in June.

<h2>- Could there be a boycott? -</h2>

"It is 10 years too late for a boycott. We should have thought about that at the time" the World Cup was awarded to Qatar in 2010, admitted Bayern and Germany midfielder Joshua Kimmich.

Indeed Belgium coach Roberto Martinez believes a boycott "is not the solution. That would just be turning our backs on the problem".

Qatar has faced criticism for its treatment of migrant workers, many of whom are involved in preparations for the World Cup, with campaigners accusing employers of exploitation and forcing labourers to work in dangerous conditions.

However, Qatari authorities insist they have done more than any country in the region to improve worker welfare and say they have "always been transparent about the health and safety of workers".

"Since construction began in 2014, there have been three work-related fatalities and 35 non-work-related deaths," a spokesman for Qatar's Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy claimed in a statement.

Organisers insist a first World Cup in the Arab world has already brought "significant benefits to workers" including improved accommodation facilities and a&nbsp;guarantee to reimburse more than $30 million in illegal recruitment fees to&nbsp;workers.

<h2>- 'Extremely positive' -</h2>

There are contradictions within the protests themselves, with several German internationals playing club football for Bayern, who have a sponsorship deal with Qatar Airways and have regularly visited the country on training camps.

It would be awkward to say the least for any Paris Saint-Germain player to be involved in the various national team protests given the French champions are owned by Qatar.

The movement could nevertheless become especially awkward for FIFA if it continues to spread, although world football's governing body says it will not stop protests.

"FIFA believes in the freedom of speech, and in the power of football as a force for good. No disciplinary proceedings in relation to this matter will be opened by FIFA," it told AFP.

Meanwhile the stance taken by the Norwegians and others has been praised by advocates on the rights of migrant workers in the Gulf.

"It's very commendable of these teams to take a stance and I think they're doing it in a way that's respectful and positive," said Nicholas McGeehan, a researcher at labour rights campaign group Fair Square.

"I think anyone who genuinely cares about the game and the issues these players are raising would agree that what's happening is extremely positive."

Denmark on Sunday joined Norway and other European national teams in a growing movement protesting against the treatment of migrant workers involved in building venues for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

Denmark on Sunday joined Norway and other European national teams in a growing movement protesting against the treatment of migrant workers involved in building venues for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Danish players wore jerseys with the slogan "Football supports CHANGE" as they lined up for a photograph before their World Cup qualifier against Moldova, with the Danish Football Union saying the shirts would be put up for sale and the money given to migrant workers in the Gulf state. Players from Germany and the Netherlands have also protested in recent days as the European qualifying campaign begins for the 2022 tournament, the hosting of which was controversially awarded a decade ago to Qatar. Norway players, including superstar striker Erling Braut Haaland, donned t-shirts with the slogan 'Human rights, on and off the pitch' prior to their game in Gibraltar on Wednesday. Germany players then undertook a similar action before taking on Iceland the next day, lining up in T-shirts which spelled the message 'Human Rights'. "We have the World Cup coming up and there will be discussions about it... we wanted to show we are not ignoring that," said Bayern Munich midfielder Leon Goretzka. "We have a large reach -- and we can use it to set an example for the values we want to stand for." The Dutch team joined in prior to kick-off in their game against Latvia in Amsterdam on Saturday and the movement raises the question of whether players, or national federations, would be prepared to actually boycott the World Cup. Several Norwegian clubs had already spoken out in favour of a boycott before their national team's action. The Norwegian Football Federation is expected to debate the issue at a special congress in June. - Could there be a boycott? - "It is 10 years too late for a boycott. We should have thought about that at the time" the World Cup was awarded to Qatar in 2010, admitted Bayern and Germany midfielder Joshua Kimmich. Indeed Belgium coach Roberto Martinez believes a boycott "is not the solution. That would just be turning our backs on the problem". Qatar has faced criticism for its treatment of migrant workers, many of whom are involved in preparations for the World Cup, with campaigners accusing employers of exploitation and forcing labourers to work in dangerous conditions. However, Qatari authorities insist they have done more than any country in the region to improve worker welfare and say they have "always been transparent about the health and safety of workers". "Since construction began in 2014, there have been three work-related fatalities and 35 non-work-related deaths," a spokesman for Qatar's Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy claimed in a statement. Organisers insist a first World Cup in the Arab world has already brought "significant benefits to workers" including improved accommodation facilities and a guarantee to reimburse more than $30 million in illegal recruitment fees to workers. - 'Extremely positive' - There are contradictions within the protests themselves, with several German internationals playing club football for Bayern, who have a sponsorship deal with Qatar Airways and have regularly visited the country on training camps. It would be awkward to say the least for any Paris Saint-Germain player to be involved in the various national team protests given the French champions are owned by Qatar. The movement could nevertheless become especially awkward for FIFA if it continues to spread, although world football's governing body says it will not stop protests. "FIFA believes in the freedom of speech, and in the power of football as a force for good. No disciplinary proceedings in relation to this matter will be opened by FIFA," it told AFP. Meanwhile the stance taken by the Norwegians and others has been praised by advocates on the rights of migrant workers in the Gulf. "It's very commendable of these teams to take a stance and I think they're doing it in a way that's respectful and positive," said Nicholas McGeehan, a researcher at labour rights campaign group Fair Square. "I think anyone who genuinely cares about the game and the issues these players are raising would agree that what's happening is extremely positive."

Qatar human rights protests spread across World Cup qualifiers

The 2021 NBA Draft will be staged on July 29, one week after a possible seventh game of the NBA Finals, with the lottery for the top pick set for June 22.

The league announced key dates on Monday for the annual allocation of rights for top NBA newcomers in a season forced later than usual into the year by the Covid-19 pandemic.

No details were revealed about the locations for the events or that of the NBA Draft Combine, a workout session for players in front of team scouts planned from June 21-27.

The combine features five-on-five contests as well as strength and agility testing.

Teams who fail to qualify for the playoffs will be involved in a weighted lottery for the top pick on June 22, a month after the start of the NBA playoffs.

The deadline for players to make an early entry application for the NBA Draft is May 30 while the deadline to withdraw such an application is July 19.

js/iwd

The 2021 NBA Draft will be staged on July 29, one week after a possible seventh game of the NBA Finals, with the lottery for the top pick set for June 22. The league announced key dates on Monday for the annual allocation of rights for top NBA newcomers in a season forced later than usual into the year by the Covid-19 pandemic.

The 2021 NBA Draft will be staged on July 29, one week after a possible seventh game of the NBA Finals, with the lottery for the top pick set for June 22. The league announced key dates on Monday for the annual allocation of rights for top NBA newcomers in a season forced later than usual into the year by the Covid-19 pandemic. No details were revealed about the locations for the events or that of the NBA Draft Combine, a workout session for players in front of team scouts planned from June 21-27. The combine features five-on-five contests as well as strength and agility testing. Teams who fail to qualify for the playoffs will be involved in a weighted lottery for the top pick on June 22, a month after the start of the NBA playoffs. The deadline for players to make an early entry application for the NBA Draft is May 30 while the deadline to withdraw such an application is July 19. js/iwd

NBA Draft set for July 29 with lottery for top pick June 22

Kraigg Brathwaite has been at his most obdurate in compiling an unbeaten 61 with the West Indies struggling to cope with the wiles of Suranga Lakmal and the rest of the Sri Lankan bowling attack in reaching 171 for five at tea on the opening day of the second and final Test against Sri Lanka at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua on Monday.

Brathwaite's gritty defiance over four hours at the crease has contrasted sharply with the attacking play of Kyle Mayers, who counter-attacked in the morning session but fell in the first over after lunch to Vishwa Fernando for 49.

Lakmal had claimed the early honours for Sri Lanka with two early wickets and added the scalp of the struggling Jermaine Blackwood in the afternoon session to have figures of three for 53 at the interval.

Dhananjaya de Silva then dismissed Jason Holder for 30 just before tea, the former captain taken at slip driving at the first delivery from the spinner to terminate a 51-run fifth wicket partnership with his skipper.

Fresh from career-best Test innings figures of five for 47 a week earlier at the same venue, Lakmal wasted no time in justifying the decision by his captain, Dimuth Karunaratne, to put the West Indies in when he removed John Campbell and Nkrumah Bonner in quick succession.

Campbell fell to a straightforward catch by wicketkeeper Niroshan Dickwella while Bonner, who held out against the visitors for seven hours in compiling an unbeaten century to ensure a draw in the first Test, fell without scoring, playing on to the cunning fast-medium bowler.

Mayers responded in his usual attacking style, dominating a third-wicket partnership of 71 with Brathwaite.&nbsp;

His penchant for attack brought him eight boundaries off 58 deliveries but he continued to live dangerously, edging through or just short of the slip cordon as the Sri Lankan pacers continued to offer the left-hander the opportunity to exercise his expansive off-drives in the hope of eventually offering a catch to the waiting fielders.

His luck ran out in the third ball after lunch with Dickwella coming up with the catch behind the stumps.

Both teams are unchanged from the first Test where the tourists rallied from a 102-run first innings deficit to seize the initiative, only for the home side to bat through the final day to comfortably ensure the stalemate.

Sri Lanka are seeking a first-ever Test series triumph in the Caribbean while the West Indies are keen to follow up their series success in Bangladesh in February with a home triumph ahead of a lengthy international break to accommodate the Indian Premier League.

Kraigg Brathwaite has been at his most obdurate in compiling an unbeaten 61 with the West Indies struggling to cope with the wiles of Suranga Lakmal and the rest of the Sri Lankan bowling attack in reaching 171 for five at tea on the opening day of the second and final Test against Sri Lanka at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua on Monday.

Kraigg Brathwaite has been at his most obdurate in compiling an unbeaten 61 with the West Indies struggling to cope with the wiles of Suranga Lakmal and the rest of the Sri Lankan bowling attack in reaching 171 for five at tea on the opening day of the second and final Test against Sri Lanka at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua on Monday. Brathwaite's gritty defiance over four hours at the crease has contrasted sharply with the attacking play of Kyle Mayers, who counter-attacked in the morning session but fell in the first over after lunch to Vishwa Fernando for 49. Lakmal had claimed the early honours for Sri Lanka with two early wickets and added the scalp of the struggling Jermaine Blackwood in the afternoon session to have figures of three for 53 at the interval. Dhananjaya de Silva then dismissed Jason Holder for 30 just before tea, the former captain taken at slip driving at the first delivery from the spinner to terminate a 51-run fifth wicket partnership with his skipper. Fresh from career-best Test innings figures of five for 47 a week earlier at the same venue, Lakmal wasted no time in justifying the decision by his captain, Dimuth Karunaratne, to put the West Indies in when he removed John Campbell and Nkrumah Bonner in quick succession. Campbell fell to a straightforward catch by wicketkeeper Niroshan Dickwella while Bonner, who held out against the visitors for seven hours in compiling an unbeaten century to ensure a draw in the first Test, fell without scoring, playing on to the cunning fast-medium bowler. Mayers responded in his usual attacking style, dominating a third-wicket partnership of 71 with Brathwaite. His penchant for attack brought him eight boundaries off 58 deliveries but he continued to live dangerously, edging through or just short of the slip cordon as the Sri Lankan pacers continued to offer the left-hander the opportunity to exercise his expansive off-drives in the hope of eventually offering a catch to the waiting fielders. His luck ran out in the third ball after lunch with Dickwella coming up with the catch behind the stumps. Both teams are unchanged from the first Test where the tourists rallied from a 102-run first innings deficit to seize the initiative, only for the home side to bat through the final day to comfortably ensure the stalemate. Sri Lanka are seeking a first-ever Test series triumph in the Caribbean while the West Indies are keen to follow up their series success in Bangladesh in February with a home triumph ahead of a lengthy international break to accommodate the Indian Premier League.

Braithwaite defies Sri Lanka bowling in second Test

Argentina striker Sergio Aguero said on Monday he was "proud" of his time at Manchester City after announcing his departure when his contract runs out this July.

Aguero joined City from Atletico Madrid in 2011 and has 257 goals in 384 games since, making him their record goal-scorer.

He scored the dramatic winning goal as they edged local rivals Manchester United to the 2012 Premier League.

"When a cycle comes to an end, many sensations arise," he posted on social media.

"A huge sense of satisfaction and pride remains in me for having played with Manchester City for a whole ten seasons - unusual for a professional player this day and age.

"I will continue to give it my utmost for the rest of the season to win more titles and bring more joy to the fans," he added.

In a club statement, City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak said he would reserve any farewell speeches until Aguero leaves, but revealed he had commissioned a statue of the striker.

"Sergio's contribution to Manchester City over the last 10 years cannot be overstated," Al Mubarak said.

"This is not yet the moment for farewell words and speeches. There is still much to achieve," he said with City in the running for their first ever Champions League and hot favourites to win the Premier League.

"In the meantime, it gives me great pleasure to announce that we will be commissioning an artist to create a statue of Sergio to live at the Etihad Stadium," he added.

Newspaper Manchester Evening News said City were planning a farewell party for Aguero after their final game of the Premier League season against Everton May 23.

The 32-year-old contracted Covid-19 in January after a season already ravaged by injury and he has played 14 games for City this term, scoring three times.

Aguero missed the end of last season and the start of the current campaign after undergoing knee surgery last June.&nbsp;

Since then he has had another lay-off after suffering a hamstring injury in October.

City coach Pep Guardiola said last week he may not be able to give Sergio Aguero much time on the pitch before his contract expires.

Argentina striker Sergio Aguero said on Monday he was "proud" of his time at Manchester City after announcing his departure when his contract runs out this July.

Argentina striker Sergio Aguero said on Monday he was "proud" of his time at Manchester City after announcing his departure when his contract runs out this July. Aguero joined City from Atletico Madrid in 2011 and has 257 goals in 384 games since, making him their record goal-scorer. He scored the dramatic winning goal as they edged local rivals Manchester United to the 2012 Premier League. "When a cycle comes to an end, many sensations arise," he posted on social media. "A huge sense of satisfaction and pride remains in me for having played with Manchester City for a whole ten seasons - unusual for a professional player this day and age. "I will continue to give it my utmost for the rest of the season to win more titles and bring more joy to the fans," he added. In a club statement, City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak said he would reserve any farewell speeches until Aguero leaves, but revealed he had commissioned a statue of the striker. "Sergio's contribution to Manchester City over the last 10 years cannot be overstated," Al Mubarak said. "This is not yet the moment for farewell words and speeches. There is still much to achieve," he said with City in the running for their first ever Champions League and hot favourites to win the Premier League. "In the meantime, it gives me great pleasure to announce that we will be commissioning an artist to create a statue of Sergio to live at the Etihad Stadium," he added. Newspaper Manchester Evening News said City were planning a farewell party for Aguero after their final game of the Premier League season against Everton May 23. The 32-year-old contracted Covid-19 in January after a season already ravaged by injury and he has played 14 games for City this term, scoring three times. Aguero missed the end of last season and the start of the current campaign after undergoing knee surgery last June. Since then he has had another lay-off after suffering a hamstring injury in October. City coach Pep Guardiola said last week he may not be able to give Sergio Aguero much time on the pitch before his contract expires.

'Proud' Aguero to leave Man City

Reigning US and Australian Open champion Naomi Osaka advanced to the Miami Open quarter-finals on Monday, stretching her win streak to 23 matches by defeating Belgian 16th seed Elise Mertens 6-3, 6-3.

The second-ranked Japanese star will next face Greek 23rd seed Maria Sakkari, who outlasted US 29th seed Jessica Pegula 6-4, 2-6, 7-6 (8/6) at the WTA and ATP Masters Series event.

"I started off really well and then for some reason I became a little sluggish. My speed didn't really feel the same," Osaka said.

"I thought it was really mental from then on. In the end, it was who fought the hardest."

Four-time Grand Slam champion Osaka broke at love for a 2-0 lead and broke again for a 5-1 edge but Mertens broke Osaka at love in the seventh game and denied four set points for Osaka to hold in an eighth game that lasted almost 10 minutes.

Osaka, seeking her first Miami crown, saved a break point with her third ace and finally finished off the first set on her seventh chance with a service winner.

In the second set, Osaka needed her fifth chance of the third game to break Mertens, only for the Belgian to quickly break back to 2-2 and hold to 3-2 before requiring treatment for a right shoulder injury.

Osaka won the last four games after that, breaking at love in the seventh game, holding at love in the eighth and breaking again to end matters after 88 minutes when Mertens netted a forehand.

Top-ranked defending champion Ashleigh Barty battled into the quarter-finals by outlasting former world number one Victoria Azarenka 6-1, 1-6, 6-2.

Australia's Barty broke five times, the last when Azarenka netted a forehand volley to end matters after one hour and 52 minutes at Hard Rock Stadium.

Barty, who had to save a match point on the way to a three-set victory over Kristina Kucova in the second round, plays Tuesday against seventh seed Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus, who downed Czech 19th seed Marketa Vondrousova 6-1, 6-2.

"I'm just excited I get to be in another quarter-final of a big event," Barty said.

"I still feel like there's a lot better tennis left out there for me. I still don't feel like I'm playing my very best just yet, but I'm fighting through and I'm finding ways to win, which is great."

The 2019 French Open winner dominated the first set but Azarenka broke for a 2-0 lead in the second, then fought back from 0-40 down to hold for 3-0 on the way to forcing a third set.

After an early exchange of breaks, &nbsp;Azarenka denied Barty on two break chances in the fourth game but the 24-year-old Queenslander broke in the sixth game and again on the last point.

"First two sets probably had some pretty big momentum swings," Barty said. "But I think the third set was a real tussle."

Ukraine's fifth-seeded Elina Svitolina rallied to defeat Czech ninth seed Petra Kvitova 2-6, 7-5, 7-5.

"I'm really happy with how I bounced back from being a set down," Svitolina said. "I'm happy with how I'm playing and handling the pressure. I had to bring my best game to win."

Svitolina's quarter-final foe will be Latvia's 57th-ranked Anastasija Sevastova, who eliminated Croatia's 338th-ranked Ana Konjuh 6-1, 7-5.

<h2>- Tsitsipas, Rublev win -</h2>

On the men's side,&nbsp;Greek second seed Stefanos Tsitsipas defeated Japanese 28th seed Kei Nishikori 6-3, 3-6, 6-1 after an hour and 56 minutes to reach the last 16.

Tsitsipas will next face Italian 24th seed Lorenzo Sonego, who dispatched Colombian Daniel Galan 7-6 (8/6), 6-3.

Russian fourth seed Andrey Rublev routed Hungarian 29th seed Marton Fucsovics 6-2, 6-1, to reach the fourth round.

"I've played some great tennis last couple of months," Rublev said. "We'll see if I can keep going."

The 23-year-old from Moscow will next face Croatia's 32-year-old Marin Cilic, the world number 45 who beat Italy's 19-year-old Lorenzo Musetti 6-3, 6-4.

"Very pleased," Cilic said. "Just have to battle it out with these youngsters. I've got to keep the heads high for the veterans on the tour."

Reigning US and Australian Open champion Naomi Osaka advanced to the Miami Open quarter-finals on Monday, stretching her win streak to 23 matches by defeating Belgian 16th seed Elise Mertens 6-3, 6-3.

Reigning US and Australian Open champion Naomi Osaka advanced to the Miami Open quarter-finals on Monday, stretching her win streak to 23 matches by defeating Belgian 16th seed Elise Mertens 6-3, 6-3. The second-ranked Japanese star will next face Greek 23rd seed Maria Sakkari, who outlasted US 29th seed Jessica Pegula 6-4, 2-6, 7-6 (8/6) at the WTA and ATP Masters Series event. "I started off really well and then for some reason I became a little sluggish. My speed didn't really feel the same," Osaka said. "I thought it was really mental from then on. In the end, it was who fought the hardest." Four-time Grand Slam champion Osaka broke at love for a 2-0 lead and broke again for a 5-1 edge but Mertens broke Osaka at love in the seventh game and denied four set points for Osaka to hold in an eighth game that lasted almost 10 minutes. Osaka, seeking her first Miami crown, saved a break point with her third ace and finally finished off the first set on her seventh chance with a service winner. In the second set, Osaka needed her fifth chance of the third game to break Mertens, only for the Belgian to quickly break back to 2-2 and hold to 3-2 before requiring treatment for a right shoulder injury. Osaka won the last four games after that, breaking at love in the seventh game, holding at love in the eighth and breaking again to end matters after 88 minutes when Mertens netted a forehand. Top-ranked defending champion Ashleigh Barty battled into the quarter-finals by outlasting former world number one Victoria Azarenka 6-1, 1-6, 6-2. Australia's Barty broke five times, the last when Azarenka netted a forehand volley to end matters after one hour and 52 minutes at Hard Rock Stadium. Barty, who had to save a match point on the way to a three-set victory over Kristina Kucova in the second round, plays Tuesday against seventh seed Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus, who downed Czech 19th seed Marketa Vondrousova 6-1, 6-2. "I'm just excited I get to be in another quarter-final of a big event," Barty said. "I still feel like there's a lot better tennis left out there for me. I still don't feel like I'm playing my very best just yet, but I'm fighting through and I'm finding ways to win, which is great." The 2019 French Open winner dominated the first set but Azarenka broke for a 2-0 lead in the second, then fought back from 0-40 down to hold for 3-0 on the way to forcing a third set. After an early exchange of breaks, Azarenka denied Barty on two break chances in the fourth game but the 24-year-old Queenslander broke in the sixth game and again on the last point. "First two sets probably had some pretty big momentum swings," Barty said. "But I think the third set was a real tussle." Ukraine's fifth-seeded Elina Svitolina rallied to defeat Czech ninth seed Petra Kvitova 2-6, 7-5, 7-5. "I'm really happy with how I bounced back from being a set down," Svitolina said. "I'm happy with how I'm playing and handling the pressure. I had to bring my best game to win." Svitolina's quarter-final foe will be Latvia's 57th-ranked Anastasija Sevastova, who eliminated Croatia's 338th-ranked Ana Konjuh 6-1, 7-5. - Tsitsipas, Rublev win - On the men's side, Greek second seed Stefanos Tsitsipas defeated Japanese 28th seed Kei Nishikori 6-3, 3-6, 6-1 after an hour and 56 minutes to reach the last 16. Tsitsipas will next face Italian 24th seed Lorenzo Sonego, who dispatched Colombian Daniel Galan 7-6 (8/6), 6-3. Russian fourth seed Andrey Rublev routed Hungarian 29th seed Marton Fucsovics 6-2, 6-1, to reach the fourth round. "I've played some great tennis last couple of months," Rublev said. "We'll see if I can keep going." The 23-year-old from Moscow will next face Croatia's 32-year-old Marin Cilic, the world number 45 who beat Italy's 19-year-old Lorenzo Musetti 6-3, 6-4. "Very pleased," Cilic said. "Just have to battle it out with these youngsters. I've got to keep the heads high for the veterans on the tour."

Osaka advances while Barty ousts Azarenka at Miami Open

Consecutive Test, Twenty20 and One-Day series defeats would be enough for most cricket nations to ring the changes, but not England, according to team stalwart Jos Buttler.

India captain Virat Kohli said after claiming the ODIs with a seven-run win in a tense decider on Sunday that it had been "sweet" to beat old rivals England in every contest on the three-month tour.

Kohli predicted "exciting times" ahead for his side who are now expected to depose England as the world's top one-day side in the ICC rankings before they host the Twenty20 World Cup this year.

The Tests, won 3-1, saw India showcase a devastating new spinner in Axar Patel, while Prasidh Krishna was unleashed as a new pace threat in the ODIs.

Buttler, who stood in for injured captain Eoin Morgan, said however that England's rivals should not read too much into the defeats.

"We have been a brilliant side for a long period of time now."

Buttler and Morgan believe that exposing new players to India's bedevilling sun-baked pitches will benefit England at the T20 tournament in October and again in 2023 when they defend their 50-over World Cup title in India.

The unbeaten 95 by number eight Sam Curran and two aggressive innings by one-day debutant Liam Livingstone caught the eye of England's management.

"Any time we expand the player pool, that creates competition, that creates better performances and that creates the upward trajectory we are always after," said Buttler.

The England wicketkeeper-batsman said Curran had been put in a unique position coming in so low in the order and nearly securing an unlikely win.

"Many guys are never really exposed to that situation in their whole career so he will take great learning from that," said Buttler.

"He is still only 22 and the scope of where he can take his game to is massive so we are all very excited for him."

Livingstone also impressed with his unbeaten 27 in England's emphatic six-wicket win on Thursday followed by his 36 on Sunday.

"Liam coming in and playing in those two games the way he has, it shows that we are doing things right," said Buttler.

"Liam is obviously a very attacking, aggressive batsman and we want him to play in exactly that fashion when he comes in," he added.

"It is brilliant to see someone like Liam come in and play straight away in the fashion that we would like people to play in.

"That shows that we are doing things right, the message is getting through to people and we will continue to play in that way."

England may not have won a series in India but Buttler said: "We are in a really good place as a side."

Consecutive Test, Twenty20 and One-Day series defeats would be enough for most cricket nations to ring the changes, but not England, according to team stalwart Jos Buttler.

Consecutive Test, Twenty20 and One-Day series defeats would be enough for most cricket nations to ring the changes, but not England, according to team stalwart Jos Buttler. India captain Virat Kohli said after claiming the ODIs with a seven-run win in a tense decider on Sunday that it had been "sweet" to beat old rivals England in every contest on the three-month tour. Kohli predicted "exciting times" ahead for his side who are now expected to depose England as the world's top one-day side in the ICC rankings before they host the Twenty20 World Cup this year. The Tests, won 3-1, saw India showcase a devastating new spinner in Axar Patel, while Prasidh Krishna was unleashed as a new pace threat in the ODIs. Buttler, who stood in for injured captain Eoin Morgan, said however that England's rivals should not read too much into the defeats. "We have been a brilliant side for a long period of time now." Buttler and Morgan believe that exposing new players to India's bedevilling sun-baked pitches will benefit England at the T20 tournament in October and again in 2023 when they defend their 50-over World Cup title in India. The unbeaten 95 by number eight Sam Curran and two aggressive innings by one-day debutant Liam Livingstone caught the eye of England's management. "Any time we expand the player pool, that creates competition, that creates better performances and that creates the upward trajectory we are always after," said Buttler. The England wicketkeeper-batsman said Curran had been put in a unique position coming in so low in the order and nearly securing an unlikely win. "Many guys are never really exposed to that situation in their whole career so he will take great learning from that," said Buttler. "He is still only 22 and the scope of where he can take his game to is massive so we are all very excited for him." Livingstone also impressed with his unbeaten 27 in England's emphatic six-wicket win on Thursday followed by his 36 on Sunday. "Liam coming in and playing in those two games the way he has, it shows that we are doing things right," said Buttler. "Liam is obviously a very attacking, aggressive batsman and we want him to play in exactly that fashion when he comes in," he added. "It is brilliant to see someone like Liam come in and play straight away in the fashion that we would like people to play in. "That shows that we are doing things right, the message is getting through to people and we will continue to play in that way." England may not have won a series in India but Buttler said: "We are in a really good place as a side."

England will not panic despite India tour defeats: Buttler

Mercedes team chief Toto Wolff said "track limits won the race for us" on Sunday after Lewis Hamilton claimed a sensational season-opening victory at the Bahrain Grand Prix.

Wolff praised his team for their strategy to help set up a sublime triumphant drive from the defending seven-time world champion – but gave credit to a set of white lines at Turn Four.

It was there, with three laps remaining, that Max Verstappen ran beyond track limits as he passed Hamilton to take the lead, but on the instructions of the race director had to hand back the place immediately. &nbsp;

Hamilton held the lead and did not give Verstappen another chance as the pair provided a thrilling finale with the champion winning by seven-tenths of a second.

"Max made a tiny mistake there and he had to give the position back," said Wolff. "We were told suddenly during the race that track limits were imposed – and that is what won us the race today.

Hamilton agreed.

"If he (Verstappen) hadn't made a mistake he would have won the race," said the winner. "I had to really keep my head and mind set in the car and to make no mistakes."

"What a difficult race that was," added Hamilton. "Max was all over me right at the end, but I just about managed to hold him off. It was one of the hardest races I have had in a while."&nbsp;

"It was such a great fight, but this is not the end for them. They will hit back with a vengeance in the next race."

Wolff said Red Bull looked strong.

"For the first race, I think these guys are a tiny bit ahead of us.

"It was a great battle of strategies," Wolff said.

"We took a very bold move pitting so early with Lewis and we gained a position, but then we thought we are doing the same again to prevent the under-cut."

<h2>- 'I love the challenge' -</h2>

Hamilton also praised Mercedes for team strategy.&nbsp;

"Stopping early, we knew was going to be difficult, but we had to cover Max. They've had an amazing performance all weekend, so it was going to take something pretty special here."

Hamilton said he was relishing the prospect of a close battle with Verstappen all&nbsp;season.

"I definitely am. Each year they're talking about when you think you've hit your peak.

"I think timing is everything and it is going to take everything and more for us to put in performances like this, but we love the challenge. I love the challenge. I still love what I do.

"It was so hard in the car today, but what a great event and this is a really good start for us. Through testing we thought we were going to be six to eight tenths behind, so the work that has gone on this week has been spectacular.

"We came into this race on the back foot, knowing it would be a tough start, but everyone worked hard to maximise what we had. It was heads down for everyone. I am so proud of everybody.

Hamilton's first win this season increased his career record total to 96 wins – 75 of them with Mercedes. He also passed Michael Schumacher's record of laps led in a race and recorded the 300th win by a British driver.

Mercedes team chief Toto Wolff said "track limits won the race for us" on Sunday after Lewis Hamilton claimed a sensational season-opening victory at the Bahrain Grand Prix.

Mercedes team chief Toto Wolff said "track limits won the race for us" on Sunday after Lewis Hamilton claimed a sensational season-opening victory at the Bahrain Grand Prix. Wolff praised his team for their strategy to help set up a sublime triumphant drive from the defending seven-time world champion – but gave credit to a set of white lines at Turn Four. It was there, with three laps remaining, that Max Verstappen ran beyond track limits as he passed Hamilton to take the lead, but on the instructions of the race director had to hand back the place immediately. Hamilton held the lead and did not give Verstappen another chance as the pair provided a thrilling finale with the champion winning by seven-tenths of a second. "Max made a tiny mistake there and he had to give the position back," said Wolff. "We were told suddenly during the race that track limits were imposed – and that is what won us the race today. Hamilton agreed. "If he (Verstappen) hadn't made a mistake he would have won the race," said the winner. "I had to really keep my head and mind set in the car and to make no mistakes." "What a difficult race that was," added Hamilton. "Max was all over me right at the end, but I just about managed to hold him off. It was one of the hardest races I have had in a while." "It was such a great fight, but this is not the end for them. They will hit back with a vengeance in the next race." Wolff said Red Bull looked strong. "For the first race, I think these guys are a tiny bit ahead of us. "It was a great battle of strategies," Wolff said. "We took a very bold move pitting so early with Lewis and we gained a position, but then we thought we are doing the same again to prevent the under-cut." - 'I love the challenge' - Hamilton also praised Mercedes for team strategy. "Stopping early, we knew was going to be difficult, but we had to cover Max. They've had an amazing performance all weekend, so it was going to take something pretty special here." Hamilton said he was relishing the prospect of a close battle with Verstappen all season. "I definitely am. Each year they're talking about when you think you've hit your peak. "I think timing is everything and it is going to take everything and more for us to put in performances like this, but we love the challenge. I love the challenge. I still love what I do. "It was so hard in the car today, but what a great event and this is a really good start for us. Through testing we thought we were going to be six to eight tenths behind, so the work that has gone on this week has been spectacular. "We came into this race on the back foot, knowing it would be a tough start, but everyone worked hard to maximise what we had. It was heads down for everyone. I am so proud of everybody. Hamilton's first win this season increased his career record total to 96 wins – 75 of them with Mercedes. He also passed Michael Schumacher's record of laps led in a race and recorded the 300th win by a British driver.

White lines saved Hamilton, says Mercedes boss

Top-seeded Daniil Medvedev hobbled into the fourth round of the Miami Open on Sunday, defying crippling leg cramps to beat Australian Alexei Popyrin 7-6 (7/3), 6-7 (7/9), 6-4.

World number two Medvedev, increasingly hampered as the third set wore on in the heat and humidity of South Florida, nevertheless mustered the only service break of the third set on the way to a dramatic victory over 86th-ranked Popyrin in the ATP Masters and WTA hardcourt tournament.

"It's probably one of the sweetest victories in my career, because I was cramping like hell in the third set," Medvedev said.

"It was really painful," Medvedev said. "A few moments during rallies, I felt like my legs were not following me any more. The only thing I was thinking about was not to fall down because if I fell down, I don't think I'd be able to get up.

"There were moments where I just wanted to lie down and say, 'OK, it's over,' but I couldn't accept that."

Medvedev had appeared to be cruising to the finish line when he seized a 5-2 lead in the second set.

Popyrin held serve for 5-3, but since Medvedev hadn't faced a break point in the match another hold seemed a mere formality.

Instead, Medvedev was broken to love in a game that featured a double fault and three superb forehand winners from Popyrin -- including a stinging cross-court return on break point.

Popyrin promptly fell to 0-40 in the next game but an ace, a service winner and a forehand long from Medvedev erased three match points.

Medvedev saved two set points in the tiebreak before Popyrin, who won his first ATP title at Singapore in February, leveled the match with a forehand winner on his third set point.

The Russian, runner-up to Novak Djokovic at the Australian Open in February, will next face unseeded American Frances Tiafoe, who beat 16th-seeded Dusan Lajovic of Serbia 1-6, 7-5, 6-3.

John Isner, the 2018 champion and 2019 runner-up, booked a fourth-round spot with a 7-6 (7/5), 7-6 (7/5) victory over 11th-seeded Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime.

The match was a near-carbon copy of Isner's two-tiebreak win over Auger-Aliassime in the 2019 semi-finals. The US veteran, 35, next faces another familiar foe in Roberto Bautista Agut.

The seventh-seeded Spaniard beat Germany's Jan-Lennard Struff 4-6, 6-3, 6-2 to book a chance to avenge his 2019 quarter-final Miami loss to Isner.

<h2>- Osaka gets walkover -</h2>

Italian teenager Jannik Sinner out-lasted 14th-seeded Karen Khachanov 4-6, 7-6 (7/2), 6-4, in a physically taxing 2hr 50min battle.

"I'm very happy that I won today this tough match," said Sinner, who booked a last-16 meeting with Finland's Emil Ruusuvuori.

Ruusuvuori, who toppled third-seeded Alexander Zverev in the second round, beat Sweden's Mikael Ymer &nbsp;4-6, 6-1, 7-5.

In the women's draw, second-seeded Naomi Osaka reached the fourth round for the first time, without lifting a racquet, when scheduled opponent Nina Stojanovic withdrew with a right thigh injury.

The US and Australian Open champion, who could overtake number one Ashleigh Barty in the rankings with a title victory if the Australian fails to reach the final, next faces 16th-seeded Belgian Elise Mertens, who defeated Anett Kontaveit of Estonia 6-2, 0-6, 6-2.

Spain's Garbine Muguruza, a two-time Grand Slam winner who ended a two-year title drought in Dubai this month, dropped the first set on the way to a 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 victory over Anna Kalinskaya.

She will face eighth-seeded Canadian Bianca Andreescu, a 7-6 (7/4), 6-7 (2/7), 6-4 winner over American Amanda Anisimova.

Fourth-seeded American Sofia Kenin was eliminated by 27th seed Ons Jabeur of Tunisia 6-4, 4-6, 6-4.

Top-seeded Daniil Medvedev hobbled into the fourth round of the Miami Open on Sunday, defying crippling leg cramps to beat Australian Alexei Popyrin 7-6 (7/3), 6-7 (7/9), 6-4.

Top-seeded Daniil Medvedev hobbled into the fourth round of the Miami Open on Sunday, defying crippling leg cramps to beat Australian Alexei Popyrin 7-6 (7/3), 6-7 (7/9), 6-4. World number two Medvedev, increasingly hampered as the third set wore on in the heat and humidity of South Florida, nevertheless mustered the only service break of the third set on the way to a dramatic victory over 86th-ranked Popyrin in the ATP Masters and WTA hardcourt tournament. "It's probably one of the sweetest victories in my career, because I was cramping like hell in the third set," Medvedev said. "It was really painful," Medvedev said. "A few moments during rallies, I felt like my legs were not following me any more. The only thing I was thinking about was not to fall down because if I fell down, I don't think I'd be able to get up. "There were moments where I just wanted to lie down and say, 'OK, it's over,' but I couldn't accept that." Medvedev had appeared to be cruising to the finish line when he seized a 5-2 lead in the second set. Popyrin held serve for 5-3, but since Medvedev hadn't faced a break point in the match another hold seemed a mere formality. Instead, Medvedev was broken to love in a game that featured a double fault and three superb forehand winners from Popyrin -- including a stinging cross-court return on break point. Popyrin promptly fell to 0-40 in the next game but an ace, a service winner and a forehand long from Medvedev erased three match points. Medvedev saved two set points in the tiebreak before Popyrin, who won his first ATP title at Singapore in February, leveled the match with a forehand winner on his third set point. The Russian, runner-up to Novak Djokovic at the Australian Open in February, will next face unseeded American Frances Tiafoe, who beat 16th-seeded Dusan Lajovic of Serbia 1-6, 7-5, 6-3. John Isner, the 2018 champion and 2019 runner-up, booked a fourth-round spot with a 7-6 (7/5), 7-6 (7/5) victory over 11th-seeded Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime. The match was a near-carbon copy of Isner's two-tiebreak win over Auger-Aliassime in the 2019 semi-finals. The US veteran, 35, next faces another familiar foe in Roberto Bautista Agut. The seventh-seeded Spaniard beat Germany's Jan-Lennard Struff 4-6, 6-3, 6-2 to book a chance to avenge his 2019 quarter-final Miami loss to Isner. - Osaka gets walkover - Italian teenager Jannik Sinner out-lasted 14th-seeded Karen Khachanov 4-6, 7-6 (7/2), 6-4, in a physically taxing 2hr 50min battle. "I'm very happy that I won today this tough match," said Sinner, who booked a last-16 meeting with Finland's Emil Ruusuvuori. Ruusuvuori, who toppled third-seeded Alexander Zverev in the second round, beat Sweden's Mikael Ymer 4-6, 6-1, 7-5. In the women's draw, second-seeded Naomi Osaka reached the fourth round for the first time, without lifting a racquet, when scheduled opponent Nina Stojanovic withdrew with a right thigh injury. The US and Australian Open champion, who could overtake number one Ashleigh Barty in the rankings with a title victory if the Australian fails to reach the final, next faces 16th-seeded Belgian Elise Mertens, who defeated Anett Kontaveit of Estonia 6-2, 0-6, 6-2. Spain's Garbine Muguruza, a two-time Grand Slam winner who ended a two-year title drought in Dubai this month, dropped the first set on the way to a 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 victory over Anna Kalinskaya. She will face eighth-seeded Canadian Bianca Andreescu, a 7-6 (7/4), 6-7 (2/7), 6-4 winner over American Amanda Anisimova. Fourth-seeded American Sofia Kenin was eliminated by 27th seed Ons Jabeur of Tunisia 6-4, 4-6, 6-4.

Top-seeded Medvedev toils into Miami Open fourth round

The Germany football team came up with a cryptic message on Sunday in their latest protest aimed at 2022 World Cup hosts Qatar.

The Germans joined Denmark, Norway and the Netherlands in a growing movement in support of workers involved in building World Cup venues in the Gulf state.

Human rights groups have been heavily critical of the treatment of migrant workers, claims Qatar disputes.

Before their 1-0 win over Romania in Bucharest on Sunday, the German team briefly reversed their shirts prior to kick-off with the numbers facing forwards.

The subtle gesture was intended to draw attention to the United Nations' 30-point declaration of Human Rights.

The German FA account posted "We are 30!" over a picture of the team on Twitter with each players' number referring to one of the articles.

"We all stand for fair play, not only on the pitch but also off it," said Germany captain Manuel Neuer.

"We stand for these 30 human rights articles, for diversity and against discrimination.

"That's what we wanted to show.

"The idea came from the team again, as it did before the match against Iceland," added Neuer.

Last Thursday, the German team wore T-shirts which spelt out "Human Rights" before their 3-0 win over Iceland in their opening qualifier.

The German Football Association (DFB) has supported the national team's protests.

"Every single sign is powerful and effective," said DFB president Fritz Keller in a statement on their website.

"But of course we must and will continue to raise our voices.

"We play for people and not for governments."

However, Keller implied the German FA is against boycotting the 2022 finals.

"We are in contact with... experts from non-governmental organisations," he added.

"Amnesty International advises against a boycott and rather demands dialogue with those involved, setting clear signals - as the national team did" by wearing the T-shirts which spelt "Human Rights".&nbsp;

Germany midfielder Joshua Kimmich has said talk of a boycott is "10 years too late".

"We should have thought about it at the time," he added, referring to the World Cup finals being awarded to Qatar back in 2010.

Elsewhere, Danish players wore shirts with "Football supports CHANGE" before their qualifier against Moldova on Sunday.

Norway also wore t-shirts stating "Human rights, on and off the pitch" prior to recent games against Gibraltar and Turkey.

The Dutch team also wore T-shirts with the message "Football supports CHANGE" before their 1-0 win over Latvia in Amsterdam on Saturday.

The Germany football team came up with a cryptic message on Sunday in their latest protest aimed at 2022 World Cup hosts Qatar. The Germans joined Denmark, Norway and the Netherlands in a growing movement in support of workers involved in building World Cup venues in the Gulf state.

The Germany football team came up with a cryptic message on Sunday in their latest protest aimed at 2022 World Cup hosts Qatar. The Germans joined Denmark, Norway and the Netherlands in a growing movement in support of workers involved in building World Cup venues in the Gulf state. Human rights groups have been heavily critical of the treatment of migrant workers, claims Qatar disputes. Before their 1-0 win over Romania in Bucharest on Sunday, the German team briefly reversed their shirts prior to kick-off with the numbers facing forwards. The subtle gesture was intended to draw attention to the United Nations' 30-point declaration of Human Rights. The German FA account posted "We are 30!" over a picture of the team on Twitter with each players' number referring to one of the articles. "We all stand for fair play, not only on the pitch but also off it," said Germany captain Manuel Neuer. "We stand for these 30 human rights articles, for diversity and against discrimination. "That's what we wanted to show. "The idea came from the team again, as it did before the match against Iceland," added Neuer. Last Thursday, the German team wore T-shirts which spelt out "Human Rights" before their 3-0 win over Iceland in their opening qualifier. The German Football Association (DFB) has supported the national team's protests. "Every single sign is powerful and effective," said DFB president Fritz Keller in a statement on their website. "But of course we must and will continue to raise our voices. "We play for people and not for governments." However, Keller implied the German FA is against boycotting the 2022 finals. "We are in contact with... experts from non-governmental organisations," he added. "Amnesty International advises against a boycott and rather demands dialogue with those involved, setting clear signals - as the national team did" by wearing the T-shirts which spelt "Human Rights". Germany midfielder Joshua Kimmich has said talk of a boycott is "10 years too late". "We should have thought about it at the time," he added, referring to the World Cup finals being awarded to Qatar back in 2010. Elsewhere, Danish players wore shirts with "Football supports CHANGE" before their qualifier against Moldova on Sunday. Norway also wore t-shirts stating "Human rights, on and off the pitch" prior to recent games against Gibraltar and Turkey. The Dutch team also wore T-shirts with the message "Football supports CHANGE" before their 1-0 win over Latvia in Amsterdam on Saturday.

Germany again protest for human rights with cryptic message

India beat England by seven runs on Sunday to clinch the one-day international series 2-1 despite a courageous unbeaten 95 from Sam Curran.

England, who had already lost the Test and Twenty20 series, bowled out India for 329 with 10 balls to spare in Pune.

England looked on the ropes at 200 for seven, but Curran equalled the highest ODI score by a batsman coming in at number eight or lower.

England sent out the order that Curran was to be given the strike as much as possible for the closing overs as they hoped for an unlikely win.

But, needing 14 to win off the final six balls, Curran came up against a disciplined effort from T. Natarajan who gave away just one boundary.

Stand-in skipper Jos Buttler said England, who were without injured captain Eoin Morgan, were indebted to Curran's "unbelievable" innings.

Indian seamers Shardul Thakur&nbsp;and Bhuvneshwar Kumar shared seven wickets between them as England finished on 322 for nine.

England's top order failed to build partnerships. Kumar sent back openers Jason Roy, for 14, and Jonny Bairstow, for one, in the first three overs.

Ben Stokes, who survived a dropped catch by Hardik Pandya on 15, fell to Natarajan for 35 and Thakur trapped Buttler lbw for 15.

Dawid Malan and Liam Livingstone put on 50 for the fifth wicket but Thakur had Livingstone caught and bowled for 36.

"We're disappointed, we came here and we wanted to win, but there have been great learnings throughout the whole process," said Buttler, who praised Curran as one of the new generation making their mark in the England side.

"Sam keeps showing what a match-winner he is. He is still only 22 and the scope of where he can take his game to is massive so we are all very excited for him."

Curran put on 57 for the eighth wicket with Adil Rashid, who was superbly caught by Virat Kohli in the covers, and then 60 for the ninth wicket with Mark Wood, who made 14 before being run out in the final over.

The left-hander, who was dropped on 22 and 87, hit nine fours and three sixes in his 83-ball knock.

<h2>- Positive India attack with bat -</h2>

India started strongly with a 103-run opening stand between Rohit Sharma, who scored 37, and Shikhar Dhawan, who hit 67, before Rashid's leg-spin removed both.

Moeen Ali rattled the stumps of Kohli, playing his 200th international as captain, but who has struggled against spin at times during England's tour of India.

The home side were then indebted to Rishabh Pant (78) and Hardik Pandya (64) who put on 99 for the fifth wicket.

Left-hander Pant swatted a six off Rashid to bring up his second successive half-century.

Thakur hit 30 off 21 balls but India lost their final four wickets for eight runs as Wood claimed three wickets, including two in one over.

Kohli said he was "surprised" that Thakur was not named man-of-the-match instead of Curran after his four wickets and 30 runs.

"And Bhuvi (Kumar) another contender for man-of-the-series. These guys were the difference in the middle overs and powerplay."

England's Jonny Bairstow was named man-of-the-series for his 219 runs in three matches including a match-winning 124 in England's chase of 337 in the second ODI.

Kohli's India outplayed England in the four Tests 3-1 and then edged out the tourists 3-2 in the Twenty20 series.

India beat England by seven runs on Sunday to clinch the one-day international series 2-1 despite a courageous unbeaten 95 from Sam Curran. England, who had already lost the Test and Twenty20 series, bowled out India for 329 with 10 balls to spare in Pune.

India beat England by seven runs on Sunday to clinch the one-day international series 2-1 despite a courageous unbeaten 95 from Sam Curran. England, who had already lost the Test and Twenty20 series, bowled out India for 329 with 10 balls to spare in Pune. England looked on the ropes at 200 for seven, but Curran equalled the highest ODI score by a batsman coming in at number eight or lower. England sent out the order that Curran was to be given the strike as much as possible for the closing overs as they hoped for an unlikely win. But, needing 14 to win off the final six balls, Curran came up against a disciplined effort from T. Natarajan who gave away just one boundary. Stand-in skipper Jos Buttler said England, who were without injured captain Eoin Morgan, were indebted to Curran's "unbelievable" innings. Indian seamers Shardul Thakur and Bhuvneshwar Kumar shared seven wickets between them as England finished on 322 for nine. England's top order failed to build partnerships. Kumar sent back openers Jason Roy, for 14, and Jonny Bairstow, for one, in the first three overs. Ben Stokes, who survived a dropped catch by Hardik Pandya on 15, fell to Natarajan for 35 and Thakur trapped Buttler lbw for 15. Dawid Malan and Liam Livingstone put on 50 for the fifth wicket but Thakur had Livingstone caught and bowled for 36. "We're disappointed, we came here and we wanted to win, but there have been great learnings throughout the whole process," said Buttler, who praised Curran as one of the new generation making their mark in the England side. "Sam keeps showing what a match-winner he is. He is still only 22 and the scope of where he can take his game to is massive so we are all very excited for him." Curran put on 57 for the eighth wicket with Adil Rashid, who was superbly caught by Virat Kohli in the covers, and then 60 for the ninth wicket with Mark Wood, who made 14 before being run out in the final over. The left-hander, who was dropped on 22 and 87, hit nine fours and three sixes in his 83-ball knock. - Positive India attack with bat - India started strongly with a 103-run opening stand between Rohit Sharma, who scored 37, and Shikhar Dhawan, who hit 67, before Rashid's leg-spin removed both. Moeen Ali rattled the stumps of Kohli, playing his 200th international as captain, but who has struggled against spin at times during England's tour of India. The home side were then indebted to Rishabh Pant (78) and Hardik Pandya (64) who put on 99 for the fifth wicket. Left-hander Pant swatted a six off Rashid to bring up his second successive half-century. Thakur hit 30 off 21 balls but India lost their final four wickets for eight runs as Wood claimed three wickets, including two in one over. Kohli said he was "surprised" that Thakur was not named man-of-the-match instead of Curran after his four wickets and 30 runs. "And Bhuvi (Kumar) another contender for man-of-the-series. These guys were the difference in the middle overs and powerplay." England's Jonny Bairstow was named man-of-the-series for his 219 runs in three matches including a match-winning 124 in England's chase of 337 in the second ODI. Kohli's India outplayed England in the four Tests 3-1 and then edged out the tourists 3-2 in the Twenty20 series.

India edge England in ODI decider despite Curran heroics

UEFA has said the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic meant plans to use VAR in the European 2022 World Cup qualifiers had to be abandoned after a weekend in which Cristiano Ronaldo's anger at being denied a late winner for Portugal against Serbia highlighted the lack of technology to help officials.

"In 2019, UEFA had proposed to FIFA the implementation of VAR in the current World Cup qualifiers. The impact of the pandemic on operational and logistical capabilities led UEFA to delay the implementation of VAR in the Europa League group phase as well as to withdraw the proposal to implement VAR in the 2022 European qualifiers," UEFA said in a statement.

Video assistant referees are now set to come into the Europa League group stage as of next season.

"VAR was also not in use in the UEFA Nations League group stage in the autumn of 2020 and has therefore to-date never been used in UEFA national team qualifying group stage matches," European football's governing body added.

It follows several moments of controversy since the start of qualifying last week for the Qatar World Cup, with the Ronaldo flashpoint casting a light on the lack of any goal-line technology (GLT).

Ronaldo thought he had scored a stoppage-time winner for Portugal in Belgrade as footage appeared to show the ball had crossed the line before Serbia defender Stefan Mitrovic could clear.

The Portugal captain was booked for protesting by Dutch referee Danny Makkelie as play was waved on and the game finished in a 2-2 draw. Ronaldo threw away his captain's armband in disgust at full-time.

"I always give and will give everything for my country, that will never change. But there are difficult times to deal with, especially when we feel that an entire nation is being harmed," Ronaldo later posted on Instagram.

Portuguese sports daily A Bola on Monday published an interview with Makkelie in which the official said he had apologised to coach Fernando Santos and the Portugal team.

Elsewhere Spain defender Inigo Martinez claimed that a penalty given against his side in a 1-1 draw with Greece would not have been awarded had video assistant referees been available, while Republic of Ireland manager Stephen Kenny felt they were denied a spot-kick in their defeat by Serbia.

"How can there not be VAR? There is for some matches and not for others. I don't understand how. There's nothing we can do about that now," Kenny told Irish broadcaster RTE.

VAR and goal-line technology are used in leading European leagues as well as the UEFA Champions League.

FIFA introduced GLT at the 2014 World Cup and VAR in 2018 in Russia, and its regulations for the 2022 qualifiers do make it possible for video assistant referees and goal-line technology to be introduced.

European World Cup qualifying action continues this week with matches on Tuesday and Wednesday.

UEFA has said the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic meant plans to use VAR in the European 2022 World Cup qualifiers had to be abandoned after a weekend in which Cristiano Ronaldo's anger at being denied a late winner for Portugal against Serbia highlighted the lack of technology to help officials.

UEFA has said the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic meant plans to use VAR in the European 2022 World Cup qualifiers had to be abandoned after a weekend in which Cristiano Ronaldo's anger at being denied a late winner for Portugal against Serbia highlighted the lack of technology to help officials. "In 2019, UEFA had proposed to FIFA the implementation of VAR in the current World Cup qualifiers. The impact of the pandemic on operational and logistical capabilities led UEFA to delay the implementation of VAR in the Europa League group phase as well as to withdraw the proposal to implement VAR in the 2022 European qualifiers," UEFA said in a statement. Video assistant referees are now set to come into the Europa League group stage as of next season. "VAR was also not in use in the UEFA Nations League group stage in the autumn of 2020 and has therefore to-date never been used in UEFA national team qualifying group stage matches," European football's governing body added. It follows several moments of controversy since the start of qualifying last week for the Qatar World Cup, with the Ronaldo flashpoint casting a light on the lack of any goal-line technology (GLT). Ronaldo thought he had scored a stoppage-time winner for Portugal in Belgrade as footage appeared to show the ball had crossed the line before Serbia defender Stefan Mitrovic could clear. The Portugal captain was booked for protesting by Dutch referee Danny Makkelie as play was waved on and the game finished in a 2-2 draw. Ronaldo threw away his captain's armband in disgust at full-time. "I always give and will give everything for my country, that will never change. But there are difficult times to deal with, especially when we feel that an entire nation is being harmed," Ronaldo later posted on Instagram. Portuguese sports daily A Bola on Monday published an interview with Makkelie in which the official said he had apologised to coach Fernando Santos and the Portugal team. Elsewhere Spain defender Inigo Martinez claimed that a penalty given against his side in a 1-1 draw with Greece would not have been awarded had video assistant referees been available, while Republic of Ireland manager Stephen Kenny felt they were denied a spot-kick in their defeat by Serbia. "How can there not be VAR? There is for some matches and not for others. I don't understand how. There's nothing we can do about that now," Kenny told Irish broadcaster RTE. VAR and goal-line technology are used in leading European leagues as well as the UEFA Champions League. FIFA introduced GLT at the 2014 World Cup and VAR in 2018 in Russia, and its regulations for the 2022 qualifiers do make it possible for video assistant referees and goal-line technology to be introduced. European World Cup qualifying action continues this week with matches on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Pandemic blamed for lack of VAR in World Cup qualifiers after Ronaldo fury

Wales star Gareth Bale said he would be willing to join a boycott of social media to tackle online abuse after former Arsenal and France striker Thierry Henry disabled his accounts.

Henry quit social media at the weekend, saying he would stay away until platforms did more to tackle "toxic" racism and harassment.

Two of Bale's Wales team-mates, Ben Cabango and Rabbi Matondo, were racially abused on Instagram following Saturday's 1-0 friendly win over Mexico -- the latest footballers to be attacked online.

Matondo criticised Instagram for not reacting quickly enough, saying if he had posted images of the match they would have been removed.

Facebook, which owns Instagram, later removed a number of accounts that were used for the racial abuse.

Bale, speaking on Monday, on the eve of Wales's 2022 World Cup qualifier against the Czech Republic, said only&nbsp;a mass boycott would have an impact.

"If everyone did it at once, not just one or two people, I would," said the 31-year-old forward.&nbsp;

"If it was a campaign where a lot of influential people in sport and other forms of life on social media (acted) to make a statement then I think it could help.

"If that was the case I'm all for that."

Henry, who had 2.3 million followers on Twitter and 2.7 million on Instagram, told broadcaster ITV that he would return to social media when it was "safe".

"People are getting racially abused but, when you see the statement (he made), I talk also about bullying, harassment that can cause mental issues, people commit suicide because of it," said the 1998 World Cup winner.

"It's very difficult to eradicate everything but can it be safer? We all know that it is a great tool but a lot of people are using it as a weapon.

"Why? Because they can hide behind fake accounts."

Instagram took action in relation to 6.6 million elements of hate speech between October and December last year.

Twitter has said it will cooperate with authorities to erase racial abuse and hate-filled posts but would stop short of banning anonymous accounts

Wales star Gareth Bale said he would be willing to join a boycott of social media to tackle online abuse after former Arsenal and France striker Thierry Henry disabled his accounts.

Wales star Gareth Bale said he would be willing to join a boycott of social media to tackle online abuse after former Arsenal and France striker Thierry Henry disabled his accounts. Henry quit social media at the weekend, saying he would stay away until platforms did more to tackle "toxic" racism and harassment. Two of Bale's Wales team-mates, Ben Cabango and Rabbi Matondo, were racially abused on Instagram following Saturday's 1-0 friendly win over Mexico -- the latest footballers to be attacked online. Matondo criticised Instagram for not reacting quickly enough, saying if he had posted images of the match they would have been removed. Facebook, which owns Instagram, later removed a number of accounts that were used for the racial abuse. Bale, speaking on Monday, on the eve of Wales's 2022 World Cup qualifier against the Czech Republic, said only a mass boycott would have an impact. "If everyone did it at once, not just one or two people, I would," said the 31-year-old forward. "If it was a campaign where a lot of influential people in sport and other forms of life on social media (acted) to make a statement then I think it could help. "If that was the case I'm all for that." Henry, who had 2.3 million followers on Twitter and 2.7 million on Instagram, told broadcaster ITV that he would return to social media when it was "safe". "People are getting racially abused but, when you see the statement (he made), I talk also about bullying, harassment that can cause mental issues, people commit suicide because of it," said the 1998 World Cup winner. "It's very difficult to eradicate everything but can it be safer? We all know that it is a great tool but a lot of people are using it as a weapon. "Why? Because they can hide behind fake accounts." Instagram took action in relation to 6.6 million elements of hate speech between October and December last year. Twitter has said it will cooperate with authorities to erase racial abuse and hate-filled posts but would stop short of banning anonymous accounts

Bale willing to boycott social media over abuse of footballers

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