India's Nikhat Zareen on Thursday stunned reigning world champion&nbsp;Paltceva&nbsp;Ekaterina to storm into the quarter-finals of the women's 51 kg event at the Bosphorus Boxing tournament in Istanbul.&nbsp;Zareen out-punched Ekaterina 5-0 on the second day of the tournament as she registered a thumping win over the Russian pugilist.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Nikhat Zareen will next lock horns with two-time world champion&nbsp;Kyzaibay&nbsp;Nazym&nbsp;of Kazakhstan in the quarter-finals of the Bosphorus Boxing tournament.&nbsp;

Apart from Zareen, 2013 Asian champion Shiva Thapa, Parveen and Sonia Lather also registered wins in their respective categories to advance to the quarter-finals.

While Thapa defeated Kazakhstan's&nbsp;Smagulov&nbsp;Baghtiyov&nbsp;3-2 in the men's 63kg event, world championship silver&nbsp;medallist&nbsp;Lather (57kg) and Lather (60kg) got the better of local&nbsp;favourites&nbsp;Surmeneli&nbsp;Tugcenaz&nbsp;and&nbsp;Ozyol&nbsp;Esra 5-0 in their respective women's second-round matches.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cousin-of-phogat-sisters-commits-suicide-after-losing-championship-final-by-1-point-371359" hreflang="en">Cousin of Phogat sisters commits suicide after losing championship final by 1 point</a>

However, the likes of&nbsp;Duryodhah&nbsp;Negi (69 kg), Brijesh Yadav (81kg) and Krishan Sharma (+91kg) lost their preliminary round bouts.&nbsp;

The third day will witness six Indian boxers fighting it out in their respective quarterfinal bouts.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Lather, Zareen, Parveen and Jyoti (69kg) will be seen in action in the women’s category while Thapa and Solanki will present the Indian challenge in the men’s competition.&nbsp;

(With PTI Inputs)&nbsp;

India's Nikhat Zareen on Thursday stunned reigning world champion Paltceva Ekaterina to storm into the quarter-finals of the women's 51 kg event at the Bosphorus Boxing tournament in Istanbul.

India's Nikhat Zareen on Thursday stunned reigning world champion Paltceva Ekaterina to storm into the quarter-finals of the women's 51 kg event at the Bosphorus Boxing tournament in Istanbul. Zareen out-punched Ekaterina 5-0 on the second day of the tournament as she registered a thumping win over the Russian pugilist. Nikhat Zareen will next lock horns with two-time world champion Kyzaibay Nazym of Kazakhstan in the quarter-finals of the Bosphorus Boxing tournament. Apart from Zareen, 2013 Asian champion Shiva Thapa, Parveen and Sonia Lather also registered wins in their respective categories to advance to the quarter-finals. While Thapa defeated Kazakhstan's Smagulov Baghtiyov 3-2 in the men's 63kg event, world championship silver medallist Lather (57kg) and Lather (60kg) got the better of local favourites Surmeneli Tugcenaz and Ozyol Esra 5-0 in their respective women's second-round matches. ALSO READ: Cousin of Phogat sisters commits suicide after losing championship final by 1 point However, the likes of Duryodhah Negi (69 kg), Brijesh Yadav (81kg) and Krishan Sharma (+91kg) lost their preliminary round bouts. The third day will witness six Indian boxers fighting it out in their respective quarterfinal bouts. Lather, Zareen, Parveen and Jyoti (69kg) will be seen in action in the women’s category while Thapa and Solanki will present the Indian challenge in the men’s competition. (With PTI Inputs)

India's Nikhat Zareen stuns world champion Paltceva Ekaterina, storms into QF of Bosphorus event

Former Indian batsman VVS Laxman has weighed his opinion on KL Rahul's poor run of form in the ongoing five-match T20I series between India and England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;Rahul has registered scores of 1 and a couple of ducks in the ongoing series in what has been&nbsp;disappointing outings for the elegant batsman.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While Indian skipper Virat Kohli and batting coach Vikram&nbsp;Rathour&nbsp;have publicly backed Rahul despite his torrid run of form, Laxman has said that the self-confidence and rhythm are lacking in Rahul's batting as he has not played much international cricket. However, he said that Rahul will not be happy with the way he was dismissed in the three T20Is against England while pointing out&nbsp;where the technical flaws stood in his batting.&nbsp;

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>

“He [Rahul] will have to play because he has not played much international cricket. He is not a regular member in Test matches now. But KL Rahul will be disappointed the way he got out in all three innings,”&nbsp;Laxman told Star Sports.&nbsp;

“If we talk or think about KL Rahul's batting, he is a technically correct batsman. He has scored centuries in Test cricket as well but the way both his feet are on the crease and the bat away from the body because of which a gap is seen between bat and pad,” added Laxman.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/englands-buttler-hails-pioneer-morgan-after-100th-t20-371227" hreflang="en">England's Buttler hails 'pioneer' Morgan after 100th T20</a>

Laxman further said that with Rahul's confidence level low, it would be a massive setback for the batsman if the team leaves him out of the playing XI at this point.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“So somewhere or the other I feel the self-confidence and rhythm that is generally seen in KL Rahul's batting is not seen at all. His confidence level is low, so if you leave him out at this point, it will be a big setback for him,” concluded Laxman.&nbsp;

India and England will lock horns for the fourth T20I on Thursday at the same venue.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Former Indian batsman VVS Laxman has weighed his opinion on KL Rahul's poor run of form in the ongoing five-match T20I series between India and England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Former Indian batsman VVS Laxman has weighed his opinion on KL Rahul's poor run of form in the ongoing five-match T20I series between India and England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Rahul has registered scores of 1 and a couple of ducks in the ongoing series in what has been disappointing outings for the elegant batsman. While Indian skipper Virat Kohli and batting coach Vikram Rathour have publicly backed Rahul despite his torrid run of form, Laxman has said that the self-confidence and rhythm are lacking in Rahul's batting as he has not played much international cricket. However, he said that Rahul will not be happy with the way he was dismissed in the three T20Is against England while pointing out where the technical flaws stood in his batting. ALSO READ: Exclusive: England favourites to win T20 World Cup but don't rule out India - Ryan Sidebottom “He [Rahul] will have to play because he has not played much international cricket. He is not a regular member in Test matches now. But KL Rahul will be disappointed the way he got out in all three innings,” Laxman told Star Sports. “If we talk or think about KL Rahul's batting, he is a technically correct batsman. He has scored centuries in Test cricket as well but the way both his feet are on the crease and the bat away from the body because of which a gap is seen between bat and pad,” added Laxman. ALSO READ: England's Buttler hails 'pioneer' Morgan after 100th T20 Laxman further said that with Rahul's confidence level low, it would be a massive setback for the batsman if the team leaves him out of the playing XI at this point. “So somewhere or the other I feel the self-confidence and rhythm that is generally seen in KL Rahul's batting is not seen at all. His confidence level is low, so if you leave him out at this point, it will be a big setback for him,” concluded Laxman. India and England will lock horns for the fourth T20I on Thursday at the same venue.

'KL Rahul will be disappointed...': VVS Laxman explains flaws in batsman's technique

The cousin of Phogat sisters&nbsp;– Geeta and Babita – has allegedly committed suicide in Haryana's&nbsp;Charkhi&nbsp;Dadri district after she suffered a defeat in the final bout of the tournament, police said on Thursday. The 17-year-old took the extreme step&nbsp;on the night of March 15, they said.&nbsp;

A native of Rajasthan's Jaipur village, she was staying with her uncle and&nbsp;Dronacharya&nbsp;awardee Mahavir Singh Phogat in&nbsp;Charkhi&nbsp;Dadri's&nbsp;Balali&nbsp;village under&nbsp;Jhojhu&nbsp;Kalan police station for the past four years, the Station House Officer (SHO) Dilbag Singh said.&nbsp;

The youngster hanged herself from a ceiling fan at her uncle's house on March 15. She was upset over her defeat to a rival by just one point in the final bout of a championship, he said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-ceremonies-chief-quits-over-pig-insult-to-female-comedian-371336" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics ceremonies chief quits over pig insult to female comedian</a>

The wrestling championship was played in Rajasthan's Bharatpur from March 12 to 14. She was learning the craft of wrestling and&nbsp;practising&nbsp;at the Mahavir Phogat Sports Academy in&nbsp;Charkhi&nbsp;Dadri. Wrestling star Geeta&nbsp;Phogat&nbsp;described the 17-year-old as her maternal sister and a "talented wrestler”.&nbsp;

Geeta took to social media platform Twitter as she wrote that it is a very sad moment for her family while adding that she doesn't know why the youngster took such a step as victory and defeat are part of an athlete's life. She urged others not to&nbsp;take such a step.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

NOTE:&nbsp;We have refrained from naming the suicide victim as she was a minor.&nbsp;

If you or someone you know wants help for mental&nbsp;well-being, don't hesitate to talk to a professional. Aasra (Mumbai) 022-27546669, 98204 66726, Sneha (Chennai) 044-24640050,&nbsp;Sumaitri&nbsp;(Delhi) 011-23389090,&nbsp;Cooj&nbsp;(Goa) 0832- 2252525, Jeevan (Jamshedpur) 065-76453841,&nbsp;Pratheeksha&nbsp;(Kochi) 048-42448830, Maithri (Kochi) 0484-2540530, Roshni (Hyderabad) 040-66202000, Lifeline 033-64643267 (Kolkata),&nbsp;Parivarthan&nbsp;(Bangalore) +91 76766 02602&nbsp;

WION is not associated with any of these&nbsp;organisations&nbsp;and does not make any recommendations&nbsp;

The cousin of Phogat sisters – Geeta and Babita – has allegedly committed suicide in Haryana's Charkhi Dadri district after she suffered a defeat in the final bout of the tournament, police said on Thursday.

The cousin of Phogat sisters – Geeta and Babita – has allegedly committed suicide in Haryana's Charkhi Dadri district after she suffered a defeat in the final bout of the tournament, police said on Thursday. The 17-year-old took the extreme step on the night of March 15, they said. A native of Rajasthan's Jaipur village, she was staying with her uncle and Dronacharya awardee Mahavir Singh Phogat in Charkhi Dadri's Balali village under Jhojhu Kalan police station for the past four years, the Station House Officer (SHO) Dilbag Singh said. The youngster hanged herself from a ceiling fan at her uncle's house on March 15. She was upset over her defeat to a rival by just one point in the final bout of a championship, he said. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics ceremonies chief quits over pig insult to female comedian The wrestling championship was played in Rajasthan's Bharatpur from March 12 to 14. She was learning the craft of wrestling and practising at the Mahavir Phogat Sports Academy in Charkhi Dadri. Wrestling star Geeta Phogat described the 17-year-old as her maternal sister and a "talented wrestler”. Geeta took to social media platform Twitter as she wrote that it is a very sad moment for her family while adding that she doesn't know why the youngster took such a step as victory and defeat are part of an athlete's life. She urged others not to take such a step. NOTE: We have refrained from naming the suicide victim as she was a minor. If you or someone you know wants help for mental well-being, don't hesitate to talk to a professional. Aasra (Mumbai) 022-27546669, 98204 66726, Sneha (Chennai) 044-24640050, Sumaitri (Delhi) 011-23389090, Cooj (Goa) 0832- 2252525, Jeevan (Jamshedpur) 065-76453841, Pratheeksha (Kochi) 048-42448830, Maithri (Kochi) 0484-2540530, Roshni (Hyderabad) 040-66202000, Lifeline 033-64643267 (Kolkata), Parivarthan (Bangalore) +91 76766 02602 WION is not associated with any of these organisations and does not make any recommendations

Cousin of Phogat sisters commits suicide after losing championship final by 1 point

Holders Bayern Munich cruised into the Champions League quarter-finals as a 2-1 win over Lazio in Wednesday's last-16 second leg sealed a 6-2 aggregate victory.

Robert Lewandowski converted a penalty before a deft chip from his second-half replacement Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting doubled the advantage on the night.

Lazio grabbed a consolation when Marco Parolo was left unmarked to head in a late free-kick from close range.

"The win is very important to us. It's in our DNA that we want to win every game," Bayern midfielder Joshua Kimmich told Sky.

"We played confidently, even if it wasn't a brilliant performance and it was annoying to concede a goal."

Their passage into the last eight takes Bayern past Barcelona's tally of 18 Champions League quarter-final appearances since the competition was rebranded from the European Cup.

Snow fell during the game at the Allianz Arena, but Bayern made light work of the wintry conditions.

They extended their unbeaten run in the Champions League to 19 games over two years.

"We needed a good performance and we bow out of the competition with a positive game," Lazio coach Simone Inzaghi told Sky.

"Some teams are unplayable: Bayern are one of them."

With his side trailing 4-1 from the first leg, Inzaghi opted to rest top-scorer Ciro Immobile, with the 1.94m-tall Vedat Muriqi starting up front.

Bayern had captain and Germany goalkeeper Manuel Neuer sidelined by a cold as understudy Alexander Nuebel made only his third start of the season.

Bayern were awarded a penalty on 31 minutes when Muriqi brought Leon Goretzka down in the area.

After a VAR review, Lewandowski smashed in the resulting spot-kick.

It was the Poland star's 39th goal in all competitions this season and fifth in the Champions League.

Lewandowski hit the post with Lazio goalkeeper Pepe Reina beaten on 67 minutes.

It was one of his last involvements as he and Thomas Mueller made way for Choupo-Moting and 18-year-old Jamal Musiala.

Less than two minutes later, David Alaba slid a pass through for Choupo-Moting to sprint onto and flick a shot over Reina.

Bayern were guilty of sloppy defending eight minutes from the final whistle when Andreas Pereira's free-kick was headed home by Muriqi's replacement Parolo.

Serge Gnabry fired wide late on as Bayern kept Lazio under pressure.

Lazio defender Francesco Acerbi said the Italians played better than in their heavy first-leg defeat, but admitted that "Bayern are probably the best in the world".

Holders Bayern Munich cruised into the Champions League quarter-finals as a 2-1 win over Lazio in Wednesday's last-16 second leg sealed a 6-2 aggregate victory. Robert Lewandowski converted a penalty before a deft chip from his second-half replacement Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting doubled the advantage on the night.

Holders Bayern Munich cruised into the Champions League quarter-finals as a 2-1 win over Lazio in Wednesday's last-16 second leg sealed a 6-2 aggregate victory. Robert Lewandowski converted a penalty before a deft chip from his second-half replacement Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting doubled the advantage on the night. Lazio grabbed a consolation when Marco Parolo was left unmarked to head in a late free-kick from close range. "The win is very important to us. It's in our DNA that we want to win every game," Bayern midfielder Joshua Kimmich told Sky. "We played confidently, even if it wasn't a brilliant performance and it was annoying to concede a goal." Their passage into the last eight takes Bayern past Barcelona's tally of 18 Champions League quarter-final appearances since the competition was rebranded from the European Cup. Snow fell during the game at the Allianz Arena, but Bayern made light work of the wintry conditions. They extended their unbeaten run in the Champions League to 19 games over two years. "We needed a good performance and we bow out of the competition with a positive game," Lazio coach Simone Inzaghi told Sky. "Some teams are unplayable: Bayern are one of them." With his side trailing 4-1 from the first leg, Inzaghi opted to rest top-scorer Ciro Immobile, with the 1.94m-tall Vedat Muriqi starting up front. Bayern had captain and Germany goalkeeper Manuel Neuer sidelined by a cold as understudy Alexander Nuebel made only his third start of the season. Bayern were awarded a penalty on 31 minutes when Muriqi brought Leon Goretzka down in the area. After a VAR review, Lewandowski smashed in the resulting spot-kick. It was the Poland star's 39th goal in all competitions this season and fifth in the Champions League. Lewandowski hit the post with Lazio goalkeeper Pepe Reina beaten on 67 minutes. It was one of his last involvements as he and Thomas Mueller made way for Choupo-Moting and 18-year-old Jamal Musiala. Less than two minutes later, David Alaba slid a pass through for Choupo-Moting to sprint onto and flick a shot over Reina. Bayern were guilty of sloppy defending eight minutes from the final whistle when Andreas Pereira's free-kick was headed home by Muriqi's replacement Parolo. Serge Gnabry fired wide late on as Bayern kept Lazio under pressure. Lazio defender Francesco Acerbi said the Italians played better than in their heavy first-leg defeat, but admitted that "Bayern are probably the best in the world".

Bayern down Lazio to stroll into Champions League quarter-finals

Thomas Tuchel said "super hungry" Chelsea have their sights set on reaching the Champions League final after Hakim Ziyech ended his goal drought to inspire a 2-0 win against Atletico Madrid in the last-16 second leg on Wednesday.

Morocco forward Ziyech grabbed his first goal since October to put the hosts ahead in the first half at Stamford Bridge.

Emerson came off the bench to score the late goal that sealed a comfortable 3-0 aggregate victory over the lacklustre La Liga leaders.

Adding to Atletico's misery, Stefan Savic was sent off in the closing stages for elbowing Antonio Rudiger in the stomach.

While Chelsea were the superior side for long periods, Atletico could justifiably claim they should have had penalty for Cesar Azpilicueta's challenge on Yannick Carrasco when the score was still 0-0.

Tuchel admitted it could have been a penalty, saying: "Azpi got a bit frightened because his ball was short, I was a bit frightened as well."

But Atletico boss Diego Simeone added: "We are not looking for excuses. We were beaten by a better team. We tried to press them up the field, but couldn't attack the way we like."

That was the only major scare for Chelsea as they extended their unbeaten run to 13 matches since Tuchel replaced the sacked Frank Lampard in January.

Tuchel boasts the longest ever unbeaten start by a Chelsea boss after moving past Luiz Felipe Scolari.

Revitalised by Tuchel, Chelsea have conceded just two goals in his brief reign and are on a run of six consecutive clean sheets in all competitions.

"A very good performance, unbelievable effort. I could feel we totally wanted it," Tuchel said.

"We enjoyed the battle. The guys were totally on and sharp. We were super hungry to go through."

Leading Chelsea into the last eight for the first time since 2014 is another feather in Tuchel's cap as the German eyes a return to the Champions League final following his defeat with Paris Saint-Germain against Bayern Munich last season.

"They play with a special bond. Fixtures and results like this give you a certain edge to achieve special things. I'm pretty sure no-one wants to play against us," Tuchel said.

"Quarter-final means there's only four games (until the final). It's a big step and feels excellent."

Chelsea, Champions League winners for the only time in 2012, had been eliminated in the first knockout stage in their last four appearances.

But they never looked in danger of losing the 1-0 lead given to them by Olivier Giroud's overhead kick in the first leg in Bucharest.

<h2>- Azpilicueta escape -</h2>

Crucially, Azpilicueta escaped without punishment when the defender's under-hit back-pass allowed Carrasco to nip ahead of him in the penalty area.

Azpilicueta responded with a panicked tug that sent Carrasco tumbling but Atletico's penalty appeal was controversially rejected by referee Daniele Orsato, with VAR bizarrely opting not to intervene.

Simeone's anger only increased as Chelsea made the most of their good fortune to take the lead in the 34th minute.

Timo Werner now has just two goals in his last 27 appearances for Chelsea.

But Tuchel backed Werner to come good this week and the Germany forward repaid his manager's faith with a strong performance capped by the key contribution to Ziyech's opener.

Breaking at pace after Werner blocked Kieran Trippier's cross, Kai Havertz fed his team-mate on the left flank.

Werner accelerated away from the out-of-position Atletico defence before clipping a perfectly-weighted pass into Ziyech's path.

Unmarked 10 yards from goal, Ziyech finished Chelsea's thrust with a clinical strike.

Savic's frustration boiled over in the 81st minute as he was dismissed for a needless elbow that drew a theatrical fall from Rudiger.

With Chelsea's injured defender Thiago Silva roaring on Emerson from the stands, the left-back blasted home from Christian Pulisic's pass in stoppage-time, sparking a wild celebration that encapsulated the feel-good factor fuelling the Blues at present.

Thomas Tuchel said "super hungry" Chelsea have their sights set on reaching the Champions League final after Hakim Ziyech ended his goal drought to inspire a 2-0 win against Atletico Madrid in the last-16 second leg on Wednesday.

Thomas Tuchel said "super hungry" Chelsea have their sights set on reaching the Champions League final after Hakim Ziyech ended his goal drought to inspire a 2-0 win against Atletico Madrid in the last-16 second leg on Wednesday. Morocco forward Ziyech grabbed his first goal since October to put the hosts ahead in the first half at Stamford Bridge. Emerson came off the bench to score the late goal that sealed a comfortable 3-0 aggregate victory over the lacklustre La Liga leaders. Adding to Atletico's misery, Stefan Savic was sent off in the closing stages for elbowing Antonio Rudiger in the stomach. While Chelsea were the superior side for long periods, Atletico could justifiably claim they should have had penalty for Cesar Azpilicueta's challenge on Yannick Carrasco when the score was still 0-0. Tuchel admitted it could have been a penalty, saying: "Azpi got a bit frightened because his ball was short, I was a bit frightened as well." But Atletico boss Diego Simeone added: "We are not looking for excuses. We were beaten by a better team. We tried to press them up the field, but couldn't attack the way we like." That was the only major scare for Chelsea as they extended their unbeaten run to 13 matches since Tuchel replaced the sacked Frank Lampard in January. Tuchel boasts the longest ever unbeaten start by a Chelsea boss after moving past Luiz Felipe Scolari. Revitalised by Tuchel, Chelsea have conceded just two goals in his brief reign and are on a run of six consecutive clean sheets in all competitions. "A very good performance, unbelievable effort. I could feel we totally wanted it," Tuchel said. "We enjoyed the battle. The guys were totally on and sharp. We were super hungry to go through." Leading Chelsea into the last eight for the first time since 2014 is another feather in Tuchel's cap as the German eyes a return to the Champions League final following his defeat with Paris Saint-Germain against Bayern Munich last season. "They play with a special bond. Fixtures and results like this give you a certain edge to achieve special things. I'm pretty sure no-one wants to play against us," Tuchel said. "Quarter-final means there's only four games (until the final). It's a big step and feels excellent." Chelsea, Champions League winners for the only time in 2012, had been eliminated in the first knockout stage in their last four appearances. But they never looked in danger of losing the 1-0 lead given to them by Olivier Giroud's overhead kick in the first leg in Bucharest. - Azpilicueta escape - Crucially, Azpilicueta escaped without punishment when the defender's under-hit back-pass allowed Carrasco to nip ahead of him in the penalty area. Azpilicueta responded with a panicked tug that sent Carrasco tumbling but Atletico's penalty appeal was controversially rejected by referee Daniele Orsato, with VAR bizarrely opting not to intervene. Simeone's anger only increased as Chelsea made the most of their good fortune to take the lead in the 34th minute. Timo Werner now has just two goals in his last 27 appearances for Chelsea. But Tuchel backed Werner to come good this week and the Germany forward repaid his manager's faith with a strong performance capped by the key contribution to Ziyech's opener. Breaking at pace after Werner blocked Kieran Trippier's cross, Kai Havertz fed his team-mate on the left flank. Werner accelerated away from the out-of-position Atletico defence before clipping a perfectly-weighted pass into Ziyech's path. Unmarked 10 yards from goal, Ziyech finished Chelsea's thrust with a clinical strike. Savic's frustration boiled over in the 81st minute as he was dismissed for a needless elbow that drew a theatrical fall from Rudiger. With Chelsea's injured defender Thiago Silva roaring on Emerson from the stands, the left-back blasted home from Christian Pulisic's pass in stoppage-time, sparking a wild celebration that encapsulated the feel-good factor fuelling the Blues at present.

Chelsea cruise into Champions League quarters as Ziyech sinks Atletico

The creative director for Tokyo's Olympic ceremonies resigned on Thursday for suggesting a female comedian appear as a pig, just weeks after the Games' chief stepped down over insulting remarks about women.

Hiroshi Sasaki announced his decision after a report on Wednesday revealed his proposal that Naomi Watanabe, a popular celebrity and plus-size model, appear as an "Olympig" wearing pig ears at the opening ceremony.

It is just the latest headache for the coronavirus-delayed Games, which are struggling for public support mid-pandemic and were left reeling by former chief Yoshiro Mori's sexist comments last month.

In a statement released early Thursday, Sasaki apologised to Watanabe and said he understood his suggestion was inappropriate.

"My idea would be a huge insult to Ms. Naomi Watanabe. This can't be taken back," he said.

"I regret this from the bottom of my heart, and I deeply apologise to her and everyone who felt discomfort over this," he added.

Watanabe, in a statement issued through her agency, said she was "surprised" by the remarks

"I'm happy with my body shape," she added, calling for a world where "individuals can respect" each other.

Tokyo Olympic chief Seiko Hashimoto, who replaced Mori last month, told reporters she was "shocked" by Sasaki's remarks.

"To joke about appearance is very, very inappropriate," Hashimoto said, adding she would work to find a replacement for Sasaki quickly.

The scandal erupted on Wednesday evening, when a local magazine reported that Sasaki suggested to colleagues last year that Watanabe could dress up as an "Olympig".

The proposal, made in a group chat, was immediately rejected by Sasaki's colleagues, who told him it was inappropriate.

<h2>- 'Should never have happened' -</h2>

Sasaki was initially appointed to take charge of the Paralympics opening and closing ceremonies, but became creative director for the Olympic extravaganzas in December.

Watanabe is a feted celebrity in Japan, and is known to international fans in part thanks to an appearance on the makeover show "Queer Eye".

The comedian and model, who fronts campaigns for products from clothing to skincare, has more than nine million followers on Instagram.

She is one of the few prominent plus-size figures among Japan's celebrities, and has faced insults in the past.&nbsp;

The incident comes at a sensitive time for the Games after the firestorm that erupted when former Tokyo 2020 chief Mori said women speak too much in meetings.

Mori eventually stepped down, with former Olympic minister Hashimoto appointed his successor, but the scandal was damaging for organisers, who have now moved to improve the gender balance on their board.

Hashimoto said she had spoken to the International Olympic Committee after the story broke yesterday and that they were "quite concerned".

"This kind of problem should never have happened," she added.

Japan's government also weighed in on the row, with deputy spokesman Naoki Okada calling Sasaki's suggestion "completely inappropriate".

It is the latest in a series of public-relations setbacks for the Olympics, including a plagiarism row over the Games' original logo and anger over a $2 billion design for the main stadium, which was later scaled back.

In 2019, the head of Japan's Olympic committee, Tsunekazu Takeda, stepped down after he was charged by French magistrates probing $2.3 million in payments made before and after Tokyo secured hosting rights.

Organisers are facing public scepticism over holding the Games this year, and are widely expected to announce next week that overseas spectators will be barred, with limits on domestic fans still to be decided.

But organisers insist the Games can still go ahead, and have released a series of rulebooks they say will ensure virus safety.

The Olympic torch relay is due to kick off on March 25, though spectators are barred from the launch ceremony and first leg, with those lining the route elsewhere banned from cheering and crowding, and required to wear masks.

The creative director for Tokyo's Olympic ceremonies resigned on Thursday for suggesting a female comedian appear as a pig, just weeks after the Games' chief stepped down over insulting remarks about women.

The creative director for Tokyo's Olympic ceremonies resigned on Thursday for suggesting a female comedian appear as a pig, just weeks after the Games' chief stepped down over insulting remarks about women. Hiroshi Sasaki announced his decision after a report on Wednesday revealed his proposal that Naomi Watanabe, a popular celebrity and plus-size model, appear as an "Olympig" wearing pig ears at the opening ceremony. It is just the latest headache for the coronavirus-delayed Games, which are struggling for public support mid-pandemic and were left reeling by former chief Yoshiro Mori's sexist comments last month. In a statement released early Thursday, Sasaki apologised to Watanabe and said he understood his suggestion was inappropriate. "My idea would be a huge insult to Ms. Naomi Watanabe. This can't be taken back," he said. "I regret this from the bottom of my heart, and I deeply apologise to her and everyone who felt discomfort over this," he added. Watanabe, in a statement issued through her agency, said she was "surprised" by the remarks "I'm happy with my body shape," she added, calling for a world where "individuals can respect" each other. Tokyo Olympic chief Seiko Hashimoto, who replaced Mori last month, told reporters she was "shocked" by Sasaki's remarks. "To joke about appearance is very, very inappropriate," Hashimoto said, adding she would work to find a replacement for Sasaki quickly. The scandal erupted on Wednesday evening, when a local magazine reported that Sasaki suggested to colleagues last year that Watanabe could dress up as an "Olympig". The proposal, made in a group chat, was immediately rejected by Sasaki's colleagues, who told him it was inappropriate. - 'Should never have happened' - Sasaki was initially appointed to take charge of the Paralympics opening and closing ceremonies, but became creative director for the Olympic extravaganzas in December. Watanabe is a feted celebrity in Japan, and is known to international fans in part thanks to an appearance on the makeover show "Queer Eye". The comedian and model, who fronts campaigns for products from clothing to skincare, has more than nine million followers on Instagram. She is one of the few prominent plus-size figures among Japan's celebrities, and has faced insults in the past. The incident comes at a sensitive time for the Games after the firestorm that erupted when former Tokyo 2020 chief Mori said women speak too much in meetings. Mori eventually stepped down, with former Olympic minister Hashimoto appointed his successor, but the scandal was damaging for organisers, who have now moved to improve the gender balance on their board. Hashimoto said she had spoken to the International Olympic Committee after the story broke yesterday and that they were "quite concerned". "This kind of problem should never have happened," she added. Japan's government also weighed in on the row, with deputy spokesman Naoki Okada calling Sasaki's suggestion "completely inappropriate". It is the latest in a series of public-relations setbacks for the Olympics, including a plagiarism row over the Games' original logo and anger over a $2 billion design for the main stadium, which was later scaled back. In 2019, the head of Japan's Olympic committee, Tsunekazu Takeda, stepped down after he was charged by French magistrates probing $2.3 million in payments made before and after Tokyo secured hosting rights. Organisers are facing public scepticism over holding the Games this year, and are widely expected to announce next week that overseas spectators will be barred, with limits on domestic fans still to be decided. But organisers insist the Games can still go ahead, and have released a series of rulebooks they say will ensure virus safety. The Olympic torch relay is due to kick off on March 25, though spectators are barred from the launch ceremony and first leg, with those lining the route elsewhere banned from cheering and crowding, and required to wear masks.

Tokyo Olympics ceremonies chief quits over pig insult to female comedian

Tottenham boss Jose Mourinho has cast doubt over whether Son Heung-min will be released to play for South Korea against Japan next week.

Son has been named in South Korea's squad for the friendly match on March 25 despite limping off during Sunday's north London derby defeat to Arsenal with a hamstring injury.

The forward is ruled out of Spurs' Europa League last-16 second-leg tie with Dinamo Zagreb on Thursday. The London side are 2-0 up after the first leg.&nbsp;

Mourinho said if Son missed Sunday's game against Aston Villa he could not be expected to play for his country in Yokohama.

"If a player is injured it doesn't matter if it's a friendly or official match," Mourinho said.

"If we get to next week and he is injured and we can prove that to the Korean association then what can they do?

"If a player cannot play for the club he cannot play for the country."

Winning the Europa League is the most likely route for Spurs to qualify for next season's Champions League and Mourinho said Harry Kane would play on Thursday despite upcoming England commitments.

England face San Marino, Albania and Poland in World Cup qualifiers in the upcoming international break and Mourinho is keen that his star man does not to feature in all three.

"If we could choose we wouldn't like the players to play three matches, but it's not in our hands. It's in the hands of their national team managers," said Mourinho.

"There is nothing we can say. If one of you ask me 'is he going to play tomorrow or is he going to rest?' I answer already that he's going to play. The game is open, it's an important game for us so he plays tomorrow."

Tottenham boss Jose Mourinho has cast doubt over whether Son Heung-min will be released to play for South Korea against Japan next week. Son has been named in South Korea's squad for the friendly match on March 25 despite limping off during Sunday's north London derby defeat to Arsenal with a hamstring injury.

Tottenham boss Jose Mourinho has cast doubt over whether Son Heung-min will be released to play for South Korea against Japan next week. Son has been named in South Korea's squad for the friendly match on March 25 despite limping off during Sunday's north London derby defeat to Arsenal with a hamstring injury. The forward is ruled out of Spurs' Europa League last-16 second-leg tie with Dinamo Zagreb on Thursday. The London side are 2-0 up after the first leg. Mourinho said if Son missed Sunday's game against Aston Villa he could not be expected to play for his country in Yokohama. "If a player is injured it doesn't matter if it's a friendly or official match," Mourinho said. "If we get to next week and he is injured and we can prove that to the Korean association then what can they do? "If a player cannot play for the club he cannot play for the country." Winning the Europa League is the most likely route for Spurs to qualify for next season's Champions League and Mourinho said Harry Kane would play on Thursday despite upcoming England commitments. England face San Marino, Albania and Poland in World Cup qualifiers in the upcoming international break and Mourinho is keen that his star man does not to feature in all three. "If we could choose we wouldn't like the players to play three matches, but it's not in our hands. It's in the hands of their national team managers," said Mourinho. "There is nothing we can say. If one of you ask me 'is he going to play tomorrow or is he going to rest?' I answer already that he's going to play. The game is open, it's an important game for us so he plays tomorrow."

Mourinho warns Son may not be released for South Korea duty

Match-winner Jos Buttler praised England captain Eoin Morgan as a "pioneer" after his landmark 100th Twenty20 appearance in Tuesday's victory over India.

Buttler, whose unbeaten 83 eclipsed India skipper Virat Kohli's swashbuckling 77, said Morgan was an inspiration to up-and-coming England cricketers.

Morgan, 34, has revamped England's approach to limited-overs cricket, highlighted by their 2019 ODI World Cup win -- four years after they failed to get out of their pool in 2015.

"He's been a pioneer for English white-ball cricketers -– he was a pioneer as a player to start with and certainly as a captain and leader," Buttler said.

"He has always been someone who has been ahead of the curve."

Dublin-born Morgan became the first England men's player to play 100 T20 internationals in the eight-wicket win, which put the tourists 2-1 up in the five-match series.

Morgan has "taken England's white-ball cricket to places it's never been before and he's done it in a quite incredible way", Buttler said.

"He's a selfless guy but it's no mean achievement to reach 100 caps."

Morgan, who will lead England at the T20 World Cup in India later this year, said receiving the 100th cap from his "great friend" Buttler was an emotional moment.

"It nearly brought me to tears to be honest," Morgan said of Buttler's short address to the team.

"Playing in 100 games is a proud moment for me but the words that he said really did warm my heart and I am very grateful," said the captain.

Buttler, 30, admitted he sometimes felt under pressure to retain his opening spot, a position he has held since 2018.

"I don't know if it will ever end, people seem to quite enjoy talking about it. I certainly feel the pressure of that sometimes," he said.

"We have lots of guys who would love to bat in that opening position. For most people it's probably the best place to bat in the game.

"But I know I've got the full backing of Morgs to go and do it, which gives me a lot of confidence.

"I know Morgs is keen for me to open in this team and I do it with his backing."

Match-winner Jos Buttler praised England captain Eoin Morgan as a "pioneer" after his landmark 100th Twenty20 appearance in Tuesday's victory over India. Buttler, whose unbeaten 83 eclipsed India skipper Virat Kohli's swashbuckling 77, said Morgan was an inspiration to up-and-coming England cricketers.

Match-winner Jos Buttler praised England captain Eoin Morgan as a "pioneer" after his landmark 100th Twenty20 appearance in Tuesday's victory over India. Buttler, whose unbeaten 83 eclipsed India skipper Virat Kohli's swashbuckling 77, said Morgan was an inspiration to up-and-coming England cricketers. Morgan, 34, has revamped England's approach to limited-overs cricket, highlighted by their 2019 ODI World Cup win -- four years after they failed to get out of their pool in 2015. "He's been a pioneer for English white-ball cricketers -– he was a pioneer as a player to start with and certainly as a captain and leader," Buttler said. "He has always been someone who has been ahead of the curve." Dublin-born Morgan became the first England men's player to play 100 T20 internationals in the eight-wicket win, which put the tourists 2-1 up in the five-match series. Morgan has "taken England's white-ball cricket to places it's never been before and he's done it in a quite incredible way", Buttler said. "He's a selfless guy but it's no mean achievement to reach 100 caps." Morgan, who will lead England at the T20 World Cup in India later this year, said receiving the 100th cap from his "great friend" Buttler was an emotional moment. "It nearly brought me to tears to be honest," Morgan said of Buttler's short address to the team. "Playing in 100 games is a proud moment for me but the words that he said really did warm my heart and I am very grateful," said the captain. Buttler, 30, admitted he sometimes felt under pressure to retain his opening spot, a position he has held since 2018. "I don't know if it will ever end, people seem to quite enjoy talking about it. I certainly feel the pressure of that sometimes," he said. "We have lots of guys who would love to bat in that opening position. For most people it's probably the best place to bat in the game. "But I know I've got the full backing of Morgs to go and do it, which gives me a lot of confidence. "I know Morgs is keen for me to open in this team and I do it with his backing."

England's Buttler hails 'pioneer' Morgan after 100th T20

The Football Association (FA) has been found guilty of inexcusable “institutional failings" in delaying the implementation of measures to safeguard children between 1995 and 2000 by an independent review of historical sexual abuse.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The review said high-profile convictions – including one for serial abuser Barry Bennell in the United States in 1995 – should have been the point of change, however, it took another five years for the FA to lay out necessary processes in place.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"The FA acted far too slowly to introduce appropriate and sufficient child protection measures, and to ensure that safeguarding was taken sufficiently seriously by those involved in the game," the report said.&nbsp;

"These are significant institutional failings for which there is no excuse. During this period, the FA did not do enough to keep children safe."&nbsp;

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&nbsp;Bennell, in February 2018, was sentenced to 31 years in jail for 50 cases of child abuse against 12 boys aged between eight to 15 for the period of 1979 and 1991.&nbsp;Judge Clement Goldstone described Bennell as "the devil incarnate". He was sentenced to a further four years&nbsp;in 2020.&nbsp;

The independent review, led by barrister Clive Sheldon, also took a look at how the FA and individuals at clubs with links to suspected or convicted abusers dealt with the reports of abuse.&nbsp;

It stated that, in some cases, "clubs acted too slowly, or inappropriately" in response to such reports.&nbsp;The review said it had identified 240 suspects and 692 survivors from the data passed to it in August 2020.&nbsp;The review makes 13 recommendations for the FA to improve safeguarding.&nbsp;

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"Understanding and acknowledging the appalling abuse suffered by young players in the period covered by the review is important for its own sake," said Sheldon.&nbsp;

"Survivors deserve to be listened to, and their suffering deserves to be properly&nbsp;recognised.&nbsp;

"As well as&nbsp;recognising&nbsp;and facing up to what happened in the past, it is also important that this terrible history is not repeated, and that everything possible is done now to safeguard the current and future generations of young players.&nbsp;

"I hope that this report will make some contribution towards that."&nbsp;

The Football Association (FA) has been found guilty of inexcusable “institutional failings" in delaying the implementation of measures to safeguard children between 1995 and 2000 by an independent review of historical sexual abuse.

The Football Association (FA) has been found guilty of inexcusable “institutional failings" in delaying the implementation of measures to safeguard children between 1995 and 2000 by an independent review of historical sexual abuse. The review said high-profile convictions – including one for serial abuser Barry Bennell in the United States in 1995 – should have been the point of change, however, it took another five years for the FA to lay out necessary processes in place. "The FA acted far too slowly to introduce appropriate and sufficient child protection measures, and to ensure that safeguarding was taken sufficiently seriously by those involved in the game," the report said. "These are significant institutional failings for which there is no excuse. During this period, the FA did not do enough to keep children safe." ALSO READ: Man City cruise into Champions League quarter-finals Bennell, in February 2018, was sentenced to 31 years in jail for 50 cases of child abuse against 12 boys aged between eight to 15 for the period of 1979 and 1991. Judge Clement Goldstone described Bennell as "the devil incarnate". He was sentenced to a further four years in 2020. The independent review, led by barrister Clive Sheldon, also took a look at how the FA and individuals at clubs with links to suspected or convicted abusers dealt with the reports of abuse. It stated that, in some cases, "clubs acted too slowly, or inappropriately" in response to such reports. The review said it had identified 240 suspects and 692 survivors from the data passed to it in August 2020. The review makes 13 recommendations for the FA to improve safeguarding. ALSO READ: Real Madrid's old guard see off Atalanta to reach Champions League last eight "Understanding and acknowledging the appalling abuse suffered by young players in the period covered by the review is important for its own sake," said Sheldon. "Survivors deserve to be listened to, and their suffering deserves to be properly recognised. "As well as recognising and facing up to what happened in the past, it is also important that this terrible history is not repeated, and that everything possible is done now to safeguard the current and future generations of young players. "I hope that this report will make some contribution towards that."

Football child sex abuse report finds FA guilty of 'significant institutional failings'

England speedster Mark Wood on Wednesday said that Jofra Archer's ability to build pressure on the opposition leads to&nbsp;dismissals during matches.&nbsp;Wood was the wrecker-in-chief for England as the pacer scalped the wickets of KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma and Shreyas Iyer as England registered a thumping eight-wicket in to take a 2-1 lead in the five-T20I series, being played at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Jofra starts a lot of the times because he keeps the pressure on, it forces the teams to take risks against the other bowlers. He keeps it tight, when I started well and I got the wicket, they had a new batsman and we could get a few dot balls in to build pressure. It is just about bowling in tandem and keeping the pressure on for each other. Just trying to make sure that we did not give anything loose," said Wood during a virtual press&nbsp;conference.&nbsp;

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Wood kept his bowling tight in the first three overs in the third T20I but Indian skipper Virat Kohli was all class during the death overs and made light work in Wood's fourth and final over.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kohli used&nbsp;the crease&nbsp;to perfection&nbsp;as&nbsp;he went deep inside the crease to hit a pull shot off Wood that went ten rows into the stands.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"We have a plan as a group. Chris Jordon is an experienced bowler. We decide on the ball we are going to bowl and then you try to execute that. The plan was good but the execution was wrong. On a couple of balls, I felt I executed what I wanted to bowl, but Kohli just played good shots and good players are allowed to do that. The first six he hit off me, was a hell of a shot," said&nbsp;Wood.&nbsp;

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"If&nbsp;you allow good players to get in, he got in and he took his time and he caught up with it in the end. He is a fantastic player, but we were pleased with the score we kept them too. I will take the battering in the end for the early wickets which I got," he&nbsp;added.&nbsp;

India&nbsp;and England will now lock horns in the fourth T20I of the five-match series on Thursday at the Narendra Modi Stadium.&nbsp;

England speedster Mark Wood on Wednesday said that Jofra Archer's ability to build pressure on the opposition leads to dismissals during matches. Wood was the wrecker-in-chief for England as the pacer scalped the wickets of KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma and Shreyas Iyer as England registered a thumping eight-wicket in to take a 2-1 lead in the five-T20I series, being played at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

England speedster Mark Wood on Wednesday said that Jofra Archer's ability to build pressure on the opposition leads to dismissals during matches. Wood was the wrecker-in-chief for England as the pacer scalped the wickets of KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma and Shreyas Iyer as England registered a thumping eight-wicket in to take a 2-1 lead in the five-T20I series, being played at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. "Jofra starts a lot of the times because he keeps the pressure on, it forces the teams to take risks against the other bowlers. He keeps it tight, when I started well and I got the wicket, they had a new batsman and we could get a few dot balls in to build pressure. It is just about bowling in tandem and keeping the pressure on for each other. Just trying to make sure that we did not give anything loose," said Wood during a virtual press conference. ALSO READ: Exclusive: England favourites to win T20 World Cup but don't rule out India - Ryan Sidebottom Wood kept his bowling tight in the first three overs in the third T20I but Indian skipper Virat Kohli was all class during the death overs and made light work in Wood's fourth and final over. Kohli used the crease to perfection as he went deep inside the crease to hit a pull shot off Wood that went ten rows into the stands. "We have a plan as a group. Chris Jordon is an experienced bowler. We decide on the ball we are going to bowl and then you try to execute that. The plan was good but the execution was wrong. On a couple of balls, I felt I executed what I wanted to bowl, but Kohli just played good shots and good players are allowed to do that. The first six he hit off me, was a hell of a shot," said Wood. ALSO READ: Resign or become Sarfaraz 2.0: Shoaib Akhtar to Babar Azam after fallout with selectors "If you allow good players to get in, he got in and he took his time and he caught up with it in the end. He is a fantastic player, but we were pleased with the score we kept them too. I will take the battering in the end for the early wickets which I got," he added. India and England will now lock horns in the fourth T20I of the five-match series on Thursday at the Narendra Modi Stadium.

Jofra Archer keeps pressure on, forces teams to attack other bowlers: Mark Wood

India Women on&nbsp;Wednesday&nbsp;lost the fifth ODI against South Africa Women by five wickets at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow. The Mithali Raj-led outfit, with the crushing defeat, conceded the series 4-1, in what has been a tough outing for the team after a gap of almost a year.&nbsp;

While there were debates on selectorial issues ahead of the series as the Indian Women's team didn't pick the likes of Shikha Pandey,&nbsp;Shafali&nbsp;Verma,&nbsp;Taniya Bhatia among a few others, the&nbsp;women's team didn't live up to the expectations and were dominated and outplayed by the South Africa Women's team led by Sune Luus.&nbsp;

After the conclusion of the fifth ODI, the head coach of the Indian women's team WV Raman said that it wasn't easy to take the field for an ODI series after 15 months while adding the players lacked the mental stamina and physical fitness to put pressure&nbsp;on the visitors. However, the former India all-rounder added that he is sure the girls would&nbsp;realise&nbsp;what went wrong for them in the series and bounce back stronger.&nbsp;&nbsp;

When asked about the selection of the ODI squad, Raman said it would be fair if he talks to the players directly.&nbsp;

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“As far as selectorial issues are concerned, I think it is only fair that I talk to them if required and I talk to them directly,” Raman told reporters in a virtual press conference after the end of fifth ODI in Lucknow.&nbsp;

“And what transpired in this series is very simple: the girls lacked the game time, and they're obviously short in terms of mental stamina and the cricketing fitness. By that I mean it's not easy to come back after 15 months &amp; play a one-day series and retain the focus and intensity required to put the opposition under pressure.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“So, these things do happen, it happens to the best of players and best of teams. I am sure that the girls would&nbsp;realise&nbsp;what was not really happening and work on it. I have seen them do that in the past and I am sure they will do it in the future as well,” he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Batting first, India Women could manage just 188 runs on the board. Skipper Mithali Raj was the lone warrior with the willow as the veteran scored 79 runs off 104 as wickets tumbled at the other end.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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For South Africa, Nadine de Klerk starred with the ball as she picked up three in her 10-over quota.&nbsp;

Chasing 189, South Africa Women lost openers Sune Luus and Laura&nbsp;Woolvaardt&nbsp;early before Lara Goodall was sent packing for 1. Reeling at 27/3, Mignon du Preez and Anne Bosch held the ground and scored 57 and 58 respectively to put the visitors on the charge. After their dismissal,&nbsp;Marizanne&nbsp;Kapp (36*) and Nadine de Klerk (19*) took them over the winning line.&nbsp;

For India, Rajeshwari Gayakwad was the standout bowler as she picked up 3 wickets in 10 overs while conceding just 13 runs.&nbsp;

India and South Africa will next lock horns in a three-match T20I series, starting from March 20 at the same venue.&nbsp;

India Women on Wednesday lost the fifth ODI against South Africa Women by five wickets at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow.

India Women on Wednesday lost the fifth ODI against South Africa Women by five wickets at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow. The Mithali Raj-led outfit, with the crushing defeat, conceded the series 4-1, in what has been a tough outing for the team after a gap of almost a year. While there were debates on selectorial issues ahead of the series as the Indian Women's team didn't pick the likes of Shikha Pandey, Shafali Verma, Taniya Bhatia among a few others, the women's team didn't live up to the expectations and were dominated and outplayed by the South Africa Women's team led by Sune Luus. After the conclusion of the fifth ODI, the head coach of the Indian women's team WV Raman said that it wasn't easy to take the field for an ODI series after 15 months while adding the players lacked the mental stamina and physical fitness to put pressure on the visitors. However, the former India all-rounder added that he is sure the girls would realise what went wrong for them in the series and bounce back stronger. When asked about the selection of the ODI squad, Raman said it would be fair if he talks to the players directly. ALSO READ: Pakistan optimistic about hosting India in Asia Cup 2023: PCB Chairman Ehsan Mani “As far as selectorial issues are concerned, I think it is only fair that I talk to them if required and I talk to them directly,” Raman told reporters in a virtual press conference after the end of fifth ODI in Lucknow. “And what transpired in this series is very simple: the girls lacked the game time, and they're obviously short in terms of mental stamina and the cricketing fitness. By that I mean it's not easy to come back after 15 months & play a one-day series and retain the focus and intensity required to put the opposition under pressure. “So, these things do happen, it happens to the best of players and best of teams. I am sure that the girls would realise what was not really happening and work on it. I have seen them do that in the past and I am sure they will do it in the future as well,” he added. Batting first, India Women could manage just 188 runs on the board. Skipper Mithali Raj was the lone warrior with the willow as the veteran scored 79 runs off 104 as wickets tumbled at the other end. ALSO READ: Mithali Raj becomes first player in women's cricket to score 7000 ODI runs For South Africa, Nadine de Klerk starred with the ball as she picked up three in her 10-over quota. Chasing 189, South Africa Women lost openers Sune Luus and Laura Woolvaardt early before Lara Goodall was sent packing for 1. Reeling at 27/3, Mignon du Preez and Anne Bosch held the ground and scored 57 and 58 respectively to put the visitors on the charge. After their dismissal, Marizanne Kapp (36*) and Nadine de Klerk (19*) took them over the winning line. For India, Rajeshwari Gayakwad was the standout bowler as she picked up 3 wickets in 10 overs while conceding just 13 runs. India and South Africa will next lock horns in a three-match T20I series, starting from March 20 at the same venue.

Not easy to come back after 15 months: WV Raman reflects on India's 4-1 series defeat to South Africa

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Ehsan Mani on Tuesday said that he is optimistic that Pakistan will&nbsp;host&nbsp;the Asia Cup in the year 2023.&nbsp;The PCB chief further said that he hopes&nbsp;the political situation between India and Pakistan would improve by then so that the country can host the Indian cricket team for the tournament in what will be a "big breakthrough for Pakistan cricket" as labelled&nbsp;by him.&nbsp;

“Pakistan has to host the Asia Cup in 2023,”&nbsp;Mani told&nbsp;GeoSuper&nbsp;in an interview.&nbsp;

“India's participation in the tournament will be a big breakthrough for Pakistan cricket. I hope that the political situation would improve by then.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

The PCB chief added that due to some recent developments, the relationship between the two countries has started to improve. However, Mani further said that the Asia Cup 2021 is unlikely to be held as Pakistan doesn't have the time for it due to PSL 6 matches and India will be playing the ICC&nbsp;World Test Championship final against New Zealand with a tour of England immediately scheduled after that.&nbsp;

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“There was a small window in June in which we are going to play the rest of the Pakistan Super League matches,” he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“The Indian team will play the final of the Test Championship against New Zealand. They have to go to England two weeks ago and stay in quarantine so the Indian team is also busy.”&nbsp;

Mani said he hasn't officially received any information on the reports of India sending its ‘B’ team for the Asia Cup but added that there&nbsp;is “no question” of having an Asia Cup this year and that Sri Lanka will host the event in 2022 instead.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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The PCB chairman said that it is crucial for all the teams to participate in the Asia Cup so that the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) earns reasonably well during tough times while adding that proceeds from the tournament will also help the associate countries to promote cricket there.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Ehsan Mani on Tuesday said that he is optimistic that Pakistan will host the Asia Cup in the year 2023. The PCB chief further said that he hopes the political situation between India and Pakistan would improve by then so that the country can host the Indian cricket team for the tournament in what will be a "big breakthrough for Pakistan cricket" as labelled by him.

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Ehsan Mani on Tuesday said that he is optimistic that Pakistan will host the Asia Cup in the year 2023. The PCB chief further said that he hopes the political situation between India and Pakistan would improve by then so that the country can host the Indian cricket team for the tournament in what will be a "big breakthrough for Pakistan cricket" as labelled by him. “Pakistan has to host the Asia Cup in 2023,” Mani told GeoSuper in an interview. “India's participation in the tournament will be a big breakthrough for Pakistan cricket. I hope that the political situation would improve by then.” The PCB chief added that due to some recent developments, the relationship between the two countries has started to improve. However, Mani further said that the Asia Cup 2021 is unlikely to be held as Pakistan doesn't have the time for it due to PSL 6 matches and India will be playing the ICC World Test Championship final against New Zealand with a tour of England immediately scheduled after that. ALSO READ: ICC Men's T20I Rankings: Virat Kohli, Jos Buttler witness sharp rise after sparkling performances “There was a small window in June in which we are going to play the rest of the Pakistan Super League matches,” he said. “The Indian team will play the final of the Test Championship against New Zealand. They have to go to England two weeks ago and stay in quarantine so the Indian team is also busy.” Mani said he hasn't officially received any information on the reports of India sending its ‘B’ team for the Asia Cup but added that there is “no question” of having an Asia Cup this year and that Sri Lanka will host the event in 2022 instead. ALSO READ: What Rishabh Pant did against Anderson, Archer is outrageous, say Dilshan and Maharoof The PCB chairman said that it is crucial for all the teams to participate in the Asia Cup so that the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) earns reasonably well during tough times while adding that proceeds from the tournament will also help the associate countries to promote cricket there.

Pakistan optimistic about hosting India in Asia Cup 2023: PCB Chairman Ehsan Mani

The Boston Red Sox have gained a global sports star as a partial team owner. LeBron James has bought a minor stake in the MLB franchise at the same time that the team’s longtime ownership group received a $750 million infusion from a private-equity firm.

It was not clear how much James invested in the Fenway Sports Group, which owns the Red Sox and Liverpool Football Club, an English Premier League soccer team.

The investment from the private-equity firm, RedBird Capital Partners, places the value of Fenway Sports Group at around $8 billion, including its debt. In addition to the sports teams, FSG owns Fenway Park, Roush Fenway Racing, the NESN regional sports network and Fenway Sports Management, a marketing company.

James, 36, a member of the Los Angeles Lakers who is in his 18th NBA season, has a long history with FSG. He originally partnered with Fenway Sports Management in 2011, allowing it to represent his global marketing rights, and as part of that deal took a small ownership stake in Liverpool FC. But by investing in FSG itself, James added the Red Sox and other FSG companies to his portfolio.

Maverick Carter, James’ longtime friend and business partner, also invested in FSG. The deal will make the pair the first Black partners in Fenway Sports Group.

The investments, which still requires approval from Major League Baseball, were confirmed by two people with knowledge of them, who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak to the news media before a public announcement from FSG. The Boston Globe first reported the investments from RedBird and James.

James, an Ohio native, has described himself as a lifelong New York Yankees fan, and he created a stir during the 2007 baseball playoffs when he wore a Yankees hat to an American League playoff game in Cleveland. He then actively rooted for Cleveland in the 2016 World Series, just months after leading the Cavaliers to the city’s first major sports championship in 52 years.

Expanding his role with FSG is one of James’ many ventures off the basketball court, which include his More Than a Vote group, which aims to fight voter suppression; his work with Carter at SpringHill Entertainment, a production company; and starring in, as well as producing, the movie “Space Jam: A New Legacy,” scheduled to be released this summer.

Though James has the highest profile among the new investors, RedBird’s involvement is likely to have more effect on FSG’s operations.

RedBird Capital Partners is led by Gerry Cardinale, who helped the Yankees and the Dallas Cowboys form Legends Hospitality when he previously worked at Goldman Sachs. RedBird recently joined the Yankees, Amazon and others in buying the YES Network from The Walt Disney Co. RedBird also recently purchased an 85% stake in Toulouse Football Club, which plays in France’s second soccer division.

FSG has more than 20 investors, who are all called partners, but it is led by John Henry, Tom Werner and Michael Gordon. RedBird’s stake in FSG will be around 11%, making it the third-largest investor, surpassing Gordon’s stake, according to one of the people with knowledge of the deal.

Henry and Werner paid $660 million for the Red Sox in 2002 and about $476 million for Liverpool in 2010. Both teams won long-awaited championships under FSG and would almost certainly be worth multiple billions individually if they were sold. RedBird’s investment will allow FSG’s current partners to cash out some of those gains without relinquishing control of the franchises. According to The Boston Globe, more than $600 million will go to FSG partners.

Whatever money is left could be invested in a number of ways, including upgrading the current teams’ rosters.

After winning their last World Series title in 2018, the Red Sox substantially slashed their payroll, notably trading star outfielder Mookie Betts to the Los Angeles Dodgers, who later signed Betts to one of the largest contracts in the sport’s history. Liverpool has won the Champions League and Premier League in recent seasons but has also been reluctant to spend on roster depth, a decision that has caused a crisis this season after a rash of season-ending injuries to important players.

The Boston Red Sox have gained a global sports star as a partial team owner. LeBron James has bought a minor stake in the MLB franchise at the same time that the team’s longtime ownership group received a $750 million infusion from a private-equity firm.

The Boston Red Sox have gained a global sports star as a partial team owner. LeBron James has bought a minor stake in the MLB franchise at the same time that the team’s longtime ownership group received a $750 million infusion from a private-equity firm. It was not clear how much James invested in the Fenway Sports Group, which owns the Red Sox and Liverpool Football Club, an English Premier League soccer team. The investment from the private-equity firm, RedBird Capital Partners, places the value of Fenway Sports Group at around $8 billion, including its debt. In addition to the sports teams, FSG owns Fenway Park, Roush Fenway Racing, the NESN regional sports network and Fenway Sports Management, a marketing company. James, 36, a member of the Los Angeles Lakers who is in his 18th NBA season, has a long history with FSG. He originally partnered with Fenway Sports Management in 2011, allowing it to represent his global marketing rights, and as part of that deal took a small ownership stake in Liverpool FC. But by investing in FSG itself, James added the Red Sox and other FSG companies to his portfolio. Maverick Carter, James’ longtime friend and business partner, also invested in FSG. The deal will make the pair the first Black partners in Fenway Sports Group. The investments, which still requires approval from Major League Baseball, were confirmed by two people with knowledge of them, who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak to the news media before a public announcement from FSG. The Boston Globe first reported the investments from RedBird and James. James, an Ohio native, has described himself as a lifelong New York Yankees fan, and he created a stir during the 2007 baseball playoffs when he wore a Yankees hat to an American League playoff game in Cleveland. He then actively rooted for Cleveland in the 2016 World Series, just months after leading the Cavaliers to the city’s first major sports championship in 52 years. Expanding his role with FSG is one of James’ many ventures off the basketball court, which include his More Than a Vote group, which aims to fight voter suppression; his work with Carter at SpringHill Entertainment, a production company; and starring in, as well as producing, the movie “Space Jam: A New Legacy,” scheduled to be released this summer. Though James has the highest profile among the new investors, RedBird’s involvement is likely to have more effect on FSG’s operations. RedBird Capital Partners is led by Gerry Cardinale, who helped the Yankees and the Dallas Cowboys form Legends Hospitality when he previously worked at Goldman Sachs. RedBird recently joined the Yankees, Amazon and others in buying the YES Network from The Walt Disney Co. RedBird also recently purchased an 85% stake in Toulouse Football Club, which plays in France’s second soccer division. FSG has more than 20 investors, who are all called partners, but it is led by John Henry, Tom Werner and Michael Gordon. RedBird’s stake in FSG will be around 11%, making it the third-largest investor, surpassing Gordon’s stake, according to one of the people with knowledge of the deal. Henry and Werner paid $660 million for the Red Sox in 2002 and about $476 million for Liverpool in 2010. Both teams won long-awaited championships under FSG and would almost certainly be worth multiple billions individually if they were sold. RedBird’s investment will allow FSG’s current partners to cash out some of those gains without relinquishing control of the franchises. According to The Boston Globe, more than $600 million will go to FSG partners. Whatever money is left could be invested in a number of ways, including upgrading the current teams’ rosters. After winning their last World Series title in 2018, the Red Sox substantially slashed their payroll, notably trading star outfielder Mookie Betts to the Los Angeles Dodgers, who later signed Betts to one of the largest contracts in the sport’s history. Liverpool has won the Champions League and Premier League in recent seasons but has also been reluctant to spend on roster depth, a decision that has caused a crisis this season after a rash of season-ending injuries to important players.

LeBron James is becoming a Red Sox owner

Former India opener Gautam Gambhir has not minced his words as he questioned Team India's decision to leave out Suryakumar Yadav from the playing XI in the third T20I against England on Tuesday. The Eoin Morgan-led side won the match by eight wickets to take a 2-1 lead in the series with&nbsp;most of the Indian batsmen failing to make a mark in the crucial game.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Suryakumar was left out as vice-captain Rohit Sharma, who was rested for the first two T20Is, came back to the playing XI. However, Gambhir has been left frustrated by the constant chopping and changing and wants the team to back the Mumbai Indians batsman.&nbsp;

"It amazes me, seven months before the World Cup he starts preparing for World Cup, and probably after the World Cup he will start preparing for the next World Cup. It really doesn`t matter, the kind of form you are in matters,"&nbsp;ESPNcricinfo&nbsp;quoted Gambhir was as saying.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Imagine if there is an injury issue, what have you seen of Suryakumar Yadav, what have you seen of Suryakumar Yadav in international cricket. I hope nobody gets injured but if there is an injury case and somebody needs to bat at number 4 and number 5," he further said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-mens-t20i-rankings-virat-kohli-jos-buttler-witness-sharp-rise-after-sparkling-performances-371091" hreflang="en">ICC Men's T20I Rankings: Virat Kohli, Jos Buttler witness sharp rise after sparkling performances</a>

"For example, there has to be a replacement for Shreyas Iyer, who are you going to go for. So at least look at someone whom you have got into the setup. Probably give him that opportunity in three or four games and see where he stands," Gambhir added.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The former opener further said that India&nbsp;create&nbsp;their own problems by juggling the playing XI a lot while adding that dropping players constantly will only increase their problems.&nbsp;

"We&nbsp;create a problem for our own self because we juggle a lot. In every game, there is some change or the other. Look at what England has done in this third T20I, they have not changed their batting order.&nbsp;So&nbsp;if you create problems for yourself, you would keep talking about problems of plenty," said&nbsp;Gambhir.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/what-rishabh-pant-did-against-anderson-archer-is-outrageous-say-dilshan-and-maharoof-370926" hreflang="en">What Rishabh Pant did against Anderson, Archer is outrageous, say Dilshan and Maharoof</a>

"India will never be short of talent, there will always be players coming through because we have got such a great structure, we have got such a great franchise cricket a tournament like IPL. But when you keep juggling players, keep dropping players you will create problems for yourself," he added.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Kohli played a blistering knock of unbeaten 77 to help India reach 156/6 in 20 overs. However, Jos Buttler masterclass helped England chase the target with eight wickets in hands with the England&nbsp;glovesman&nbsp;remaining unbeaten on 83 and Jonny Bairstow on 40.&nbsp;

Both&nbsp;India and England&nbsp;will meet in the fourth T20I on Thursday which will be played at the same venue.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Former India opener Gautam Gambhir has not minced his words as he questioned Team India's decision to leave out Suryakumar Yadav from the playing XI in the third T20I against England on Tuesday.

Former India opener Gautam Gambhir has not minced his words as he questioned Team India's decision to leave out Suryakumar Yadav from the playing XI in the third T20I against England on Tuesday. The Eoin Morgan-led side won the match by eight wickets to take a 2-1 lead in the series with most of the Indian batsmen failing to make a mark in the crucial game. Suryakumar was left out as vice-captain Rohit Sharma, who was rested for the first two T20Is, came back to the playing XI. However, Gambhir has been left frustrated by the constant chopping and changing and wants the team to back the Mumbai Indians batsman. "It amazes me, seven months before the World Cup he starts preparing for World Cup, and probably after the World Cup he will start preparing for the next World Cup. It really doesn`t matter, the kind of form you are in matters," ESPNcricinfo quoted Gambhir was as saying. "Imagine if there is an injury issue, what have you seen of Suryakumar Yadav, what have you seen of Suryakumar Yadav in international cricket. I hope nobody gets injured but if there is an injury case and somebody needs to bat at number 4 and number 5," he further said. ALSO READ: ICC Men's T20I Rankings: Virat Kohli, Jos Buttler witness sharp rise after sparkling performances "For example, there has to be a replacement for Shreyas Iyer, who are you going to go for. So at least look at someone whom you have got into the setup. Probably give him that opportunity in three or four games and see where he stands," Gambhir added. The former opener further said that India create their own problems by juggling the playing XI a lot while adding that dropping players constantly will only increase their problems. "We create a problem for our own self because we juggle a lot. In every game, there is some change or the other. Look at what England has done in this third T20I, they have not changed their batting order. So if you create problems for yourself, you would keep talking about problems of plenty," said Gambhir. ALSO READ: What Rishabh Pant did against Anderson, Archer is outrageous, say Dilshan and Maharoof "India will never be short of talent, there will always be players coming through because we have got such a great structure, we have got such a great franchise cricket a tournament like IPL. But when you keep juggling players, keep dropping players you will create problems for yourself," he added. Meanwhile, Kohli played a blistering knock of unbeaten 77 to help India reach 156/6 in 20 overs. However, Jos Buttler masterclass helped England chase the target with eight wickets in hands with the England glovesman remaining unbeaten on 83 and Jonny Bairstow on 40. Both India and England will meet in the fourth T20I on Thursday which will be played at the same venue.

'When you keep juggling players...': Gautam Gambhir lashes out at Virat Kohli for dropping Suryakumar Yadav

India captain Virat Kohli has moved back into the top five and England’s Jos Buttler has re-entered the top 20 of the ICC Men’s T20I Player Rankings after blistering performances in their ongoing five-match series in Ahmedabad which England lead 2-1.

Kohli, a formerly top-ranked batsman in the format and currently number one in ODIs, has gained one slot and a massive 47 rating points after unbeaten knocks of 73 and 77 in the second and third matches while Buttler’s match-winning 83 not out in the third match has helped him advance five places to 19th position, just two shy of his career-best 17th position attained in October 2018.

There were also some other fine performances in the series between the top two sides of the&nbsp;ICC Men’s T20I Team Rankings, providing them with a good opportunity to prepare for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup later this year in India.

Jonny Bairstow, who chipped in with 40 runs and was associated in an unbroken 77-run stand with Buttler in the eight-wicket win on Tuesday, has moved up two slots to 14th position in the list led by his compatriot Dawid Malan. Jason Roy has advanced four slots to 24th with scores of 49 and 46 in the first two matches.

Fast bowlers Jofra Archer (up 43 places to 34th) and Mark Wood (up 59 places to 39th), as well as left-arm seam bowler Sam Curran (up 41 places to 74th) have gained in the weekly update for men, carried out on Wednesdays.

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Back-to-back fifties in the ongoing <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> series have helped Virat Kohli reclaim the No.5 spot in the <a href="https://twitter.com/MRFWorldwide?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MRFWorldwide</a> ICC T20I Player Rankings 👀 
 
Full list: <a href="https://t.co/iM96Oe6eu6">https://t.co/iM96Oe6eu6</a> <a href="https://t.co/JkxEyZGTLr">pic.twitter.com/JkxEyZGTLr</a>
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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>

For India, Shreyas Iyer (up 32 places to 31st) and Rishabh Pant (up 30 places to 80th) have gained among batsmen while all-rounder Washington Sundar (up two places to 11th) and seam bowlers Shardul Thakur (up 14 places to 27th) and Bhuvneshwar Kumar (up seven places to 45th) have moved up the list for bowlers.

In the&nbsp;ICC Men’s ODI Player Rankings, wicketkeeper-batsman Shai Hope’s player of the series effort against Sri Lanka, in which he had scores of 110, 84 and 64, have helped him gain five slots and reach joint-seventh position, three off his career best fourth position attained in May 2019.

Nicholas Pooran (up one place to 32nd), Evin Lewis (up 10 places to 44th) and Darren Bravo (up eight places to 99th) are the other West Indies players to move up in the batting list after their team won the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Super League series 3-0. Fast bowler Alzarri Joseph’s four wickets see him advance seven places to a career-best 27th position.

For Sri Lanka, Danushka Gunathilaka has gained 20 slots to reach 51st position after scoring 187 runs in the series while PWH de Silva (up from 94th to 66th) and Lakshan Sandakan (up from 124th to 99th) are among those to move up the bowlers’ list.

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Shai Hope was the highest run-scorer in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WIvSL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WIvSL</a> ODIs with 258 runs at 86.00 👏 
 
His brilliant performance has helped him break into the top 10 of the <a href="https://twitter.com/MRFWorldwide?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MRFWorldwide</a> ICC ODI Player Rankings. 
 
Full list: <a href="https://t.co/9XBRp67hlj">https://t.co/9XBRp67hlj</a> <a href="https://t.co/7VTCuse11v">pic.twitter.com/7VTCuse11v</a>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-rates-ahmedabad-pitch-for-two-day-test-match-average-370728" hreflang="en">ICC rates Ahmedabad pitch for two-day test match 'average'</a>

In the ICC Men’s Test Player Rankings, Hashmatullah Shahidi has entered the top 100 after notching up Afghanistan’s first Test double century, which helped his team beat Zimbabwe by six wickets to level the two-match series 1-1. He has rocketed 47 places to 90th position.

Captain Asghar Afghan, who scored 164 and shared in a fourth-wicket partnership of 307 with Hashmatullah, has moved up to a career-best 65th place while leg-spinner Rashid Khan’s toil of bowling nearly 100 overs not only earned him returns of four for 138 and seven for 137 but also a reward of nine places to reach 32nd position in the rankings.

Zimbabwe captain Sean Williams is up to a career-best 24th place after scoring 151 while following-on, his tally of 621 rating points the highest for his country since Brendan Taylor in 2014. Donald Tiripano’s knock of 95 in the second innings has helped him progress 22 places to 123rd in the charts.

India captain Virat Kohli has moved back into the top five and England’s Jos Buttler has re-entered the top 20 of the ICC Men’s T20I Player Rankings after blistering performances in their ongoing five-match series in Ahmedabad which England lead 2-1.

India captain Virat Kohli has moved back into the top five and England’s Jos Buttler has re-entered the top 20 of the ICC Men’s T20I Player Rankings after blistering performances in their ongoing five-match series in Ahmedabad which England lead 2-1. Kohli, a formerly top-ranked batsman in the format and currently number one in ODIs, has gained one slot and a massive 47 rating points after unbeaten knocks of 73 and 77 in the second and third matches while Buttler’s match-winning 83 not out in the third match has helped him advance five places to 19th position, just two shy of his career-best 17th position attained in October 2018. There were also some other fine performances in the series between the top two sides of the ICC Men’s T20I Team Rankings, providing them with a good opportunity to prepare for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup later this year in India. Jonny Bairstow, who chipped in with 40 runs and was associated in an unbroken 77-run stand with Buttler in the eight-wicket win on Tuesday, has moved up two slots to 14th position in the list led by his compatriot Dawid Malan. Jason Roy has advanced four slots to 24th with scores of 49 and 46 in the first two matches. Fast bowlers Jofra Archer (up 43 places to 34th) and Mark Wood (up 59 places to 39th), as well as left-arm seam bowler Sam Curran (up 41 places to 74th) have gained in the weekly update for men, carried out on Wednesdays. Back-to-back fifties in the ongoing #INDvENG series have helped Virat Kohli reclaim the No.5 spot in the @MRFWorldwide ICC T20I Player Rankings 👀 Full list: https://t.co/iM96Oe6eu6 pic.twitter.com/JkxEyZGTLr — ICC (@ICC) March 17, 2021 × ALSO READ: Exclusive: England favourites to win T20 World Cup but don't rule out India - Ryan Sidebottom For India, Shreyas Iyer (up 32 places to 31st) and Rishabh Pant (up 30 places to 80th) have gained among batsmen while all-rounder Washington Sundar (up two places to 11th) and seam bowlers Shardul Thakur (up 14 places to 27th) and Bhuvneshwar Kumar (up seven places to 45th) have moved up the list for bowlers. In the ICC Men’s ODI Player Rankings, wicketkeeper-batsman Shai Hope’s player of the series effort against Sri Lanka, in which he had scores of 110, 84 and 64, have helped him gain five slots and reach joint-seventh position, three off his career best fourth position attained in May 2019. Nicholas Pooran (up one place to 32nd), Evin Lewis (up 10 places to 44th) and Darren Bravo (up eight places to 99th) are the other West Indies players to move up in the batting list after their team won the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Super League series 3-0. Fast bowler Alzarri Joseph’s four wickets see him advance seven places to a career-best 27th position. For Sri Lanka, Danushka Gunathilaka has gained 20 slots to reach 51st position after scoring 187 runs in the series while PWH de Silva (up from 94th to 66th) and Lakshan Sandakan (up from 124th to 99th) are among those to move up the bowlers’ list. Shai Hope was the highest run-scorer in the #WIvSL ODIs with 258 runs at 86.00 👏 His brilliant performance has helped him break into the top 10 of the @MRFWorldwide ICC ODI Player Rankings. Full list: https://t.co/9XBRp67hlj pic.twitter.com/7VTCuse11v — ICC (@ICC) March 17, 2021 × ALSO READ: ICC rates Ahmedabad pitch for two-day test match 'average' In the ICC Men’s Test Player Rankings, Hashmatullah Shahidi has entered the top 100 after notching up Afghanistan’s first Test double century, which helped his team beat Zimbabwe by six wickets to level the two-match series 1-1. He has rocketed 47 places to 90th position. Captain Asghar Afghan, who scored 164 and shared in a fourth-wicket partnership of 307 with Hashmatullah, has moved up to a career-best 65th place while leg-spinner Rashid Khan’s toil of bowling nearly 100 overs not only earned him returns of four for 138 and seven for 137 but also a reward of nine places to reach 32nd position in the rankings. Zimbabwe captain Sean Williams is up to a career-best 24th place after scoring 151 while following-on, his tally of 621 rating points the highest for his country since Brendan Taylor in 2014. Donald Tiripano’s knock of 95 in the second innings has helped him progress 22 places to 123rd in the charts.

ICC Men's T20I Rankings: Virat Kohli, Jos Buttler witness sharp rise after sparkling performances

Tiger Woods said Tuesday he has left hospital and is recovering at home after being seriously injured in a car crash in Los Angeles last month.

In a statement released on social media, the golf superstar thanked hospital staff who cared for him following his single vehicle car accident on February 23.

"Happy to report that I am back home and continuing my recovery," Woods said. "I am so grateful for the outpouring of support and encouragement that I have received over the past few weeks."

"Thank you to the incredible surgeons, doctors, nurses and staff at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center and Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. You have all taken such great care of me and I cannot thank you enough," he added. "I will be recovering at home and working on getting stronger every day."

Woods suffered serious injuries when his car flew off the road and flipped several times during last month's accident.

The 45-year-old 15-time major champion later underwent hours of surgery to repair his shattered lower right leg and ankle, which included the insertion of a rod into his tibia and the use of screws and pins to stabilise the joint.

<h2>- 'Purely an accident' -</h2>

Woods faces a lengthy recovery from his injuries, which included open fractures affecting his right leg, raising questions over his future playing career which has also included 82 tour victories.

Woods was already recovering from his fifth back surgery -- and hoping he would be able to prepare for a run at the Masters in April -- when the crash occurred.

Investigators in Los Angeles have said Woods does not face charges of reckless driving over the crash, describing it as "purely an accident" and adding there was no evidence of impairment.

Last month's accident was the latest dramatic chapter of Woods career, which saw him dominate the golf world for more than a decade before a 2009 sex scandal sent his game into freefall.

He later divorced from his Swedish wife Elin Nordegren after a cascade of women came forward to say they had affairs with the golfer.

In May 2017, he was arrested near his home in Florida for being asleep at the wheel of his car in a traffic lane. Woods said he had taken prescription drugs and pleaded guilty to reckless driving.

A series of operations on his back left many wondering whether Woods could ever return to the top of his sport, but he completed a fairytale comeback with victory at the 2019 Masters to clinch his 15th major title, three shy of the record of 18 held by Jack Nicklaus.

Tiger Woods said Tuesday he has left hospital and is recovering at home after being seriously injured in a car crash in Los Angeles last month. In a statement released on social media, the golf superstar thanked hospital staff who cared for him following his single vehicle car accident on February 23.

Tiger Woods said Tuesday he has left hospital and is recovering at home after being seriously injured in a car crash in Los Angeles last month. In a statement released on social media, the golf superstar thanked hospital staff who cared for him following his single vehicle car accident on February 23. "Happy to report that I am back home and continuing my recovery," Woods said. "I am so grateful for the outpouring of support and encouragement that I have received over the past few weeks." "Thank you to the incredible surgeons, doctors, nurses and staff at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center and Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. You have all taken such great care of me and I cannot thank you enough," he added. "I will be recovering at home and working on getting stronger every day." Woods suffered serious injuries when his car flew off the road and flipped several times during last month's accident. The 45-year-old 15-time major champion later underwent hours of surgery to repair his shattered lower right leg and ankle, which included the insertion of a rod into his tibia and the use of screws and pins to stabilise the joint. - 'Purely an accident' - Woods faces a lengthy recovery from his injuries, which included open fractures affecting his right leg, raising questions over his future playing career which has also included 82 tour victories. Woods was already recovering from his fifth back surgery -- and hoping he would be able to prepare for a run at the Masters in April -- when the crash occurred. Investigators in Los Angeles have said Woods does not face charges of reckless driving over the crash, describing it as "purely an accident" and adding there was no evidence of impairment. Last month's accident was the latest dramatic chapter of Woods career, which saw him dominate the golf world for more than a decade before a 2009 sex scandal sent his game into freefall. He later divorced from his Swedish wife Elin Nordegren after a cascade of women came forward to say they had affairs with the golfer. In May 2017, he was arrested near his home in Florida for being asleep at the wheel of his car in a traffic lane. Woods said he had taken prescription drugs and pleaded guilty to reckless driving. A series of operations on his back left many wondering whether Woods could ever return to the top of his sport, but he completed a fairytale comeback with victory at the 2019 Masters to clinch his 15th major title, three shy of the record of 18 held by Jack Nicklaus.

Tiger Woods says recovering at home after crash

Pep Guardiola told his Manchester City players to forget their previous Champions League failures after cruising into the quarter-finals with a 2-0 win over Borussia Moenchengladbach on Tuesday that sealed a 4-0 aggregate victory.

The Champions League is the one trophy that has remained elusive to Guardiola during his five years in Manchester with City failing to ever get beyond the last eight under the Catalan.

But the runaway Premier League leaders will get the chance to break that barrier next month as they showed why they are the bookies' favourites for the competition with another classy performance in Budapest, which hosted both legs of the tie due to coronavirus restrictions on travel between England and Germany.

Early goals from Kevin De Bruyne and Ilkay Gundogan killed off any hope of a fightback from the Germans as City recorded a 24th win in their last 25 games in all competitions.

"What happened in the past is the past," said Guardiola, who won the Champions League twice as coach of Barcelona but has been unable to replicate that success with Bayern Munich or City.

"In the quarter-finals one bad game, (a few) bad minutes can punish you.

"Now it is the best teams in Europe. The quality every time is higher and hopefully we can maintain this mood."

De Bruyne and Gundogan were two of a host of first-team regulars left out by Guardiola for Saturday's 3-0 win at Fulham and City looked refreshed in a fast start.

De Bruyne blasted in the opener from outside the box off the underside of the bar on 12 minutes.

Six minutes later a flowing move from back to front saw Phil Foden release Gundogan in behind the Gladbach defence to score his 15th goal of the season.

"The start obviously helps a lot," said De Bruyne. "We were patient in the beginning and then scoring the two goals gives us a bit of a cover knowing they need to come out a little bit more. I think we controlled the game."

Gladbach have now lost all seven games since manager Marco Rose announced he will be leaving the club at the end of the season to join Borussia Dortmund.

<h2>- Rock solid City -</h2>

Defensive frailties have been the cause of City's previous Champions League exits under Guardiola.

They conceded six goals to Monaco over two legs in 2017, five to Liverpool a year later, four to Tottenham in 2019, and suffered a shock 3-1 defeat to Lyon last season in a one-off tie in Lisbon.

However, the signing of Ruben Dias has transformed Guardiola's men into the complete team this season as they remain on course for an unprecedented quadruple of Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup and League Cup.

City have now kept seven consecutive Champions League clean sheets.

"We cannot deny Ruben and John (Stones) make an incredible step forward for the team," added Guardiola.

"But we need everyone. Everyone runs a lot, the important thing is to understand we defend with the ball."

With no key players missing through injury, the wealth of options Guardiola has to choose from is another reason this could finally be City's year for a major breakthrough in Europe.

Fernandinho, Oleksandr Zinchenko, Aymeric Laporte, Sergio Aguero and Raheem Sterling were all introduced off the bench in the second half to give Dias, Joao Cancelo, Gundogan, Rodrigo and Bernardo Silva an early night ahead of Saturday's trip to Everton in the FA Cup quarter-finals.

By then, City will know their next Champions League opponents. On this form, they are the side to avoid in Friday's quarter-final draw.

Pep Guardiola told his Manchester City players to forget their previous Champions League failures after cruising into the quarter-finals with a 2-0 win over Borussia Moenchengladbach on Tuesday that sealed a 4-0 aggregate victory.

Pep Guardiola told his Manchester City players to forget their previous Champions League failures after cruising into the quarter-finals with a 2-0 win over Borussia Moenchengladbach on Tuesday that sealed a 4-0 aggregate victory. The Champions League is the one trophy that has remained elusive to Guardiola during his five years in Manchester with City failing to ever get beyond the last eight under the Catalan. But the runaway Premier League leaders will get the chance to break that barrier next month as they showed why they are the bookies' favourites for the competition with another classy performance in Budapest, which hosted both legs of the tie due to coronavirus restrictions on travel between England and Germany. Early goals from Kevin De Bruyne and Ilkay Gundogan killed off any hope of a fightback from the Germans as City recorded a 24th win in their last 25 games in all competitions. "What happened in the past is the past," said Guardiola, who won the Champions League twice as coach of Barcelona but has been unable to replicate that success with Bayern Munich or City. "In the quarter-finals one bad game, (a few) bad minutes can punish you. "Now it is the best teams in Europe. The quality every time is higher and hopefully we can maintain this mood." De Bruyne and Gundogan were two of a host of first-team regulars left out by Guardiola for Saturday's 3-0 win at Fulham and City looked refreshed in a fast start. De Bruyne blasted in the opener from outside the box off the underside of the bar on 12 minutes. Six minutes later a flowing move from back to front saw Phil Foden release Gundogan in behind the Gladbach defence to score his 15th goal of the season. "The start obviously helps a lot," said De Bruyne. "We were patient in the beginning and then scoring the two goals gives us a bit of a cover knowing they need to come out a little bit more. I think we controlled the game." Gladbach have now lost all seven games since manager Marco Rose announced he will be leaving the club at the end of the season to join Borussia Dortmund. - Rock solid City - Defensive frailties have been the cause of City's previous Champions League exits under Guardiola. They conceded six goals to Monaco over two legs in 2017, five to Liverpool a year later, four to Tottenham in 2019, and suffered a shock 3-1 defeat to Lyon last season in a one-off tie in Lisbon. However, the signing of Ruben Dias has transformed Guardiola's men into the complete team this season as they remain on course for an unprecedented quadruple of Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup and League Cup. City have now kept seven consecutive Champions League clean sheets. "We cannot deny Ruben and John (Stones) make an incredible step forward for the team," added Guardiola. "But we need everyone. Everyone runs a lot, the important thing is to understand we defend with the ball." With no key players missing through injury, the wealth of options Guardiola has to choose from is another reason this could finally be City's year for a major breakthrough in Europe. Fernandinho, Oleksandr Zinchenko, Aymeric Laporte, Sergio Aguero and Raheem Sterling were all introduced off the bench in the second half to give Dias, Joao Cancelo, Gundogan, Rodrigo and Bernardo Silva an early night ahead of Saturday's trip to Everton in the FA Cup quarter-finals. By then, City will know their next Champions League opponents. On this form, they are the side to avoid in Friday's quarter-final draw.

Man City cruise into Champions League quarter-finals

Real Madrid avoided another early Champions League exit on Tuesday by beating Atalanta 3-1 to win the tie 4-1 on aggregate and reach the quarter-finals for the first time in three years.&nbsp;

Sergio Ramos marked his return from injury by converting a penalty after Karim Benzema continued his scoring streak by capitalising on a glaring error from Atlanta goalkeeper Marco Sportiello.&nbsp;

Sportiello's scuffed clearance in the first half resulted in Benzema being given an easy finish at the Alfredo di Stefano stadium and after an electric start, Atalanta never really recovered.&nbsp;

Luis Muriel pulled one back for the visitors late on but any hopes of a comeback were quickly dashed as substitute Marco Asensio fired in a third for Madrid.&nbsp;

Zinedine Zidane's side will be in Friday's draw for the last eight and with their old guard fit and firing again, they will be hopeful of exceeding what are now dampened expectations of La Liga's reigning champions.&nbsp;

"We showed tonight how much hunger there still is in this team," said Luka Modric. "We can go far. How far let's see but today was an important step."

Ramos played just over an hour in his second appearance since recovering from a knee injury while Benzema's goal was his eighth in as many games and 70th in the Champions League, making him only the fifth player to reach that number.&nbsp;

The 35-year-old Modric and Toni Kroos were dominant in the absence of the suspended Casemiro.&nbsp;

"I feel 27!" joked Modric. "The years on your passport don't matter, it's about what you do on the pitch."

How Madrid's veterans would fare against more polished opposition remains to be seen, after they came up short against Manchester City last year and Ajax the year before that, both in the last 16.

<h2>- Madrid punish Atalanta errors -</h2>

They will be unlikely to benefit from the same generosity Atalanta afforded them across the two legs.

Remo Freuler's red card and a late goal spoiled the Italians' night in Bergamo and it was individual errors from Sportiello and then Rafael Toloi for the penalty that let them down again here.

"We started strong and we were succeeding with our pressing," said Muriel. "It's a shame because from our two mistakes came the two goals that cut our legs from under us."

Atalanta tore into Madrid early on, with the intensity of their press giving their opponents no time to settle and Robin Gosens could have scored, only to fail to connect with Muriel's cross.

The early storm weathered, Madrid found their feet as Kroos began to dictate from deep and the tireless Modric popped passes around Atalanta's midfield.&nbsp;

The lively Vinicius Junior took too long after a neat one-two with Benzema, who then showed the youngster how it should be done.&nbsp;

Sportiello's clearance was tamed by Modric, whose second touch pushed the ball into the box before a third cut the ball back to Benzema, who had an open net.&nbsp;

The goal killed Atalanta's belief and Vinicius almost added a second after half-time, only to prod wide after a surging run to the edge of Atalanta's six-yard box.&nbsp;

But the warning was not heeded and Vinicius raced past Toloi, whose dangling leg made enough contact to concede the penalty, which Ramos whipped into the corner.

Ramos signalled to the bench that his work was done and he departed shortly after, before Benzema headed Lucas Vazquez's cross at Sportiello and the rebound against the post.

Muriel gave Atalanta hope by curling in a superb free-kick with eight minutes left but in an instant it was gone again, as Asensio drove in a third.

Real Madrid avoided another early Champions League exit on Tuesday by beating Atalanta 3-1 to win the tie 4-1 on aggregate and reach the quarter-finals for the first time in three years.

Real Madrid avoided another early Champions League exit on Tuesday by beating Atalanta 3-1 to win the tie 4-1 on aggregate and reach the quarter-finals for the first time in three years. Sergio Ramos marked his return from injury by converting a penalty after Karim Benzema continued his scoring streak by capitalising on a glaring error from Atlanta goalkeeper Marco Sportiello. Sportiello's scuffed clearance in the first half resulted in Benzema being given an easy finish at the Alfredo di Stefano stadium and after an electric start, Atalanta never really recovered. Luis Muriel pulled one back for the visitors late on but any hopes of a comeback were quickly dashed as substitute Marco Asensio fired in a third for Madrid. Zinedine Zidane's side will be in Friday's draw for the last eight and with their old guard fit and firing again, they will be hopeful of exceeding what are now dampened expectations of La Liga's reigning champions. "We showed tonight how much hunger there still is in this team," said Luka Modric. "We can go far. How far let's see but today was an important step." Ramos played just over an hour in his second appearance since recovering from a knee injury while Benzema's goal was his eighth in as many games and 70th in the Champions League, making him only the fifth player to reach that number. The 35-year-old Modric and Toni Kroos were dominant in the absence of the suspended Casemiro. "I feel 27!" joked Modric. "The years on your passport don't matter, it's about what you do on the pitch." How Madrid's veterans would fare against more polished opposition remains to be seen, after they came up short against Manchester City last year and Ajax the year before that, both in the last 16. - Madrid punish Atalanta errors - They will be unlikely to benefit from the same generosity Atalanta afforded them across the two legs. Remo Freuler's red card and a late goal spoiled the Italians' night in Bergamo and it was individual errors from Sportiello and then Rafael Toloi for the penalty that let them down again here. "We started strong and we were succeeding with our pressing," said Muriel. "It's a shame because from our two mistakes came the two goals that cut our legs from under us." Atalanta tore into Madrid early on, with the intensity of their press giving their opponents no time to settle and Robin Gosens could have scored, only to fail to connect with Muriel's cross. The early storm weathered, Madrid found their feet as Kroos began to dictate from deep and the tireless Modric popped passes around Atalanta's midfield. The lively Vinicius Junior took too long after a neat one-two with Benzema, who then showed the youngster how it should be done. Sportiello's clearance was tamed by Modric, whose second touch pushed the ball into the box before a third cut the ball back to Benzema, who had an open net. The goal killed Atalanta's belief and Vinicius almost added a second after half-time, only to prod wide after a surging run to the edge of Atalanta's six-yard box. But the warning was not heeded and Vinicius raced past Toloi, whose dangling leg made enough contact to concede the penalty, which Ramos whipped into the corner. Ramos signalled to the bench that his work was done and he departed shortly after, before Benzema headed Lucas Vazquez's cross at Sportiello and the rebound against the post. Muriel gave Atalanta hope by curling in a superb free-kick with eight minutes left but in an instant it was gone again, as Asensio drove in a third.

Real Madrid's old guard see off Atalanta to reach Champions League last eight

The start of badminton's prestigious All England Open Championships&nbsp;was delayed for several hours after a number of positive and "inconclusive" Covid-19 test results, officials said.

The Super 1000 tournament, featuring the return to the circuit of Japan's world number one Kento Momota after he was injured in a fatal car crash last year,&nbsp;will start at 2pm (1400 GMT) on Wednesday rather than 9am.

"The Badminton World Federation and Badminton England can confirm that a significant number of Covid-19 tests conducted for participating teams at the All England Championships were deemed 'inconclusive' and as a result, the samples will be rerun," said a BWF statement.

"BWF can also confirm a small number of positive tests were recorded and in agreement with Public Health England, these cases will be retested. These cases will continue to self-isolate while they are being retested."

Officials said they would "continue to implement all testing protocols required by the UK Government and Public Health England to ensure the health and safety of all participants".

The All England Open was the final event on the BWF calendar to be played last year before the sport shut down because of the coronavirus pandemic.

International competition resumed in Denmark in October, but was suspended again until January when three tournaments, including the World Tour Finals, were staged in a biosecure "bubble" in Thailand.

World champion Momota will be playing his first international tournament since fracturing his eye socket in the crash&nbsp;that killed his driver following victory in the Malaysia Masters in January 2020.

The 26-year-old is facing a battle to regain form and fitness ahead of this year's rescheduled Tokyo Olympics after being off the tour for more than a year.&nbsp;

He missed out on a comeback in Thailand after testing positive for Covid-19, which led to the Japan squad pulling out of the Bangkok events.

With the event not counting towards Olympic qualification, players from China, South Korea and Taiwan had already opted not to travel because of virus restrictions, while women's Olympic champion Carolina Marin of Spain has withdrawn because of an injury.

The start of badminton's prestigious All England Open Championships was delayed for several hours after a number of positive and "inconclusive" Covid-19 test results, officials said.

The start of badminton's prestigious All England Open Championships was delayed for several hours after a number of positive and "inconclusive" Covid-19 test results, officials said. The Super 1000 tournament, featuring the return to the circuit of Japan's world number one Kento Momota after he was injured in a fatal car crash last year, will start at 2pm (1400 GMT) on Wednesday rather than 9am. "The Badminton World Federation and Badminton England can confirm that a significant number of Covid-19 tests conducted for participating teams at the All England Championships were deemed 'inconclusive' and as a result, the samples will be rerun," said a BWF statement. "BWF can also confirm a small number of positive tests were recorded and in agreement with Public Health England, these cases will be retested. These cases will continue to self-isolate while they are being retested." Officials said they would "continue to implement all testing protocols required by the UK Government and Public Health England to ensure the health and safety of all participants". The All England Open was the final event on the BWF calendar to be played last year before the sport shut down because of the coronavirus pandemic. International competition resumed in Denmark in October, but was suspended again until January when three tournaments, including the World Tour Finals, were staged in a biosecure "bubble" in Thailand. World champion Momota will be playing his first international tournament since fracturing his eye socket in the crash that killed his driver following victory in the Malaysia Masters in January 2020. The 26-year-old is facing a battle to regain form and fitness ahead of this year's rescheduled Tokyo Olympics after being off the tour for more than a year. He missed out on a comeback in Thailand after testing positive for Covid-19, which led to the Japan squad pulling out of the Bangkok events. With the event not counting towards Olympic qualification, players from China, South Korea and Taiwan had already opted not to travel because of virus restrictions, while women's Olympic champion Carolina Marin of Spain has withdrawn because of an injury.

Badminton's All England event delayed after positive Covid tests

Virat Kohli on Tuesday produced batting of the highest&nbsp;calibre&nbsp;as he hammered an unbeaten 77 off 46 deliveries&nbsp;to help India post a competitive target of 156-6 in 20 overs in the third T20I against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. With the cracking half-century, Kohli&nbsp;equalled&nbsp;New Zealand captain Kane Williamson's record&nbsp;of scoring&nbsp;the&nbsp;most&nbsp;number of half-centuries by a captain in T20I&nbsp;cricket.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Both Kohli and Williamson now have 11 fifties as captain of their respective sides in the shortest format of the game. In total, Kohli has now scored 27 T20I half-centuries.&nbsp;&nbsp;

After a tricky start, where India lost a few quick wickets up front in the third T20I, Kohli brought his A-game on the field as he recorded his second T20I half-century on the bounce.&nbsp;Notably, Kohli hit 49 runs in his last 17 balls in what can be called as breathtaking knock by the Indian skipper.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/what-rishabh-pant-did-against-anderson-archer-is-outrageous-say-dilshan-and-maharoof-370926" hreflang="en">What Rishabh Pant did against Anderson, Archer is outrageous, say Dilshan and Maharoof</a>

Kohli now has been part of 10 instances of scoring two consecutive 50+ scores in T20Is. The likes of Chris Gayle, Martin Guptill and Brendon McCullum have scored&nbsp;back-to-back&nbsp;half-centuries in T20Is only six times.&nbsp;

It was also the first time since T20 World Cup in 2016 that Kohli smashed back-to-back half-centuries in T20Is. The Indian skipper had scored 73not-out&nbsp;off&nbsp;49&nbsp;deliveries&nbsp;in the&nbsp;second T20I against England which India won by seven wickets.&nbsp;

India&nbsp;were&nbsp;reeling at 87 for 5 at the end of the 15th over but they ended up with 156&nbsp;on the scoreboard courtesy the master knock by Kohli.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-blessed-to-have-2-players-like-ms-dhoni-in-rishabh-pant-and-ishan-kishan-says-saba-karim-370885" hreflang="en">India blessed to have 2 players like MS Dhoni in Rishabh Pant and Ishan Kishan, says Saba Karim</a>

“We want to work on setting targets as well, in preparation for the future. England is going to come out hard, and we have to bring our A-game. Crowds are important, but we have to be professional and go out and give it our best in whatever conditions we have been given,” Kohli said at the toss.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Virat Kohli on Tuesday produced batting of the highest calibre as he hammered an unbeaten 77 off 46 deliveries to help India post a competitive target of 156-6 in 20 overs in the third T20I against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Virat Kohli on Tuesday produced batting of the highest calibre as he hammered an unbeaten 77 off 46 deliveries to help India post a competitive target of 156-6 in 20 overs in the third T20I against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. With the cracking half-century, Kohli equalled New Zealand captain Kane Williamson's record of scoring the most number of half-centuries by a captain in T20I cricket. Both Kohli and Williamson now have 11 fifties as captain of their respective sides in the shortest format of the game. In total, Kohli has now scored 27 T20I half-centuries. After a tricky start, where India lost a few quick wickets up front in the third T20I, Kohli brought his A-game on the field as he recorded his second T20I half-century on the bounce. Notably, Kohli hit 49 runs in his last 17 balls in what can be called as breathtaking knock by the Indian skipper. ALSO READ: What Rishabh Pant did against Anderson, Archer is outrageous, say Dilshan and Maharoof Kohli now has been part of 10 instances of scoring two consecutive 50+ scores in T20Is. The likes of Chris Gayle, Martin Guptill and Brendon McCullum have scored back-to-back half-centuries in T20Is only six times. It was also the first time since T20 World Cup in 2016 that Kohli smashed back-to-back half-centuries in T20Is. The Indian skipper had scored 73not-out off 49 deliveries in the second T20I against England which India won by seven wickets. India were reeling at 87 for 5 at the end of the 15th over but they ended up with 156 on the scoreboard courtesy the master knock by Kohli. ALSO READ: India blessed to have 2 players like MS Dhoni in Rishabh Pant and Ishan Kishan, says Saba Karim “We want to work on setting targets as well, in preparation for the future. England is going to come out hard, and we have to bring our A-game. Crowds are important, but we have to be professional and go out and give it our best in whatever conditions we have been given,” Kohli said at the toss.

Virat Kohli joins Kane Williamson in elite list after achieving iconic landmark in T20I cricket

The T20 format has helped the game of cricket evolve over the years. From the days when players used to be conservative about their shot-selection to youngsters playing fearless and glitzy shots, cricket has come a long way since the introduction of T20 cricket.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Former Sri Lankan batsman Tillakaratne Dilshan was the first player to play the scoop shot&nbsp;- over the wicket-keeper, against Australia in 2009 World T20 -&nbsp;which later became famous by the name of ‘Dilscoop’. Since then, the world of cricket&nbsp;has seen a plethora of&nbsp;innovative shots with the latest being Rishabh&nbsp;Pant's&nbsp;masterclass against England pacers James Anderson and Jofra Archer.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The inventor of ‘Dilscoop’ - Dilshan – has lauded the fearless approach of Rishabh Pant and other youngsters as they continue to innovate and&nbsp;entertain the crowd with their batting while also helping their respective teams win matches across formats.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Pant, who unleashed the reverse-swat, first against veteran pacer James Anderson in the fourth Test in Ahmedabad, left everyone flabbergasted by his sheer audacity to attempt the stroke against England's leading wicket-taker. But that was not&nbsp;enough, the youngster played a similar stroke against Jofra Archer&nbsp;when the England pacer was bowling at close to 150kph to leave everyone awestruck.&nbsp;

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Okay.. this isn’t just regular stuff Rishabh Pant!! Crazy shots on repeat <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> <a href="https://t.co/obPaBPsD6Y">pic.twitter.com/obPaBPsD6Y</a>
— Sawera Pasha (@sawerapasha) <a href="https://twitter.com/sawerapasha/status/1370403613147860993?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2021</a></blockquote>
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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>

Dilshan said he is extremely delighted to see youngsters&nbsp;showing confidence in their ability and are not taken aback by the pace or class of the bowler.&nbsp;

“I think it's really good. Since the introduction of T20 cricket, few youngsters do different things on the field. For example, I tried to invent&nbsp;Dilscoop&nbsp;now people have tried to play the reverse sweeps, switch hits, paddles, etc. I think it is really a good thing that they are challenging themselves. I feel if any good cricketer can take that challenge, that's really good for the game to advance. It can go a long way. We can see not only in T20s or one-dayers&nbsp;but now even&nbsp;in&nbsp;Test cricket young cricketers try to take some chances by playing reverse sweeps and reverse paddles,” Dilshan answered to a WION query during a media interaction.&nbsp;

“It is&nbsp;really good&nbsp;that&nbsp;they have the confidence to do&nbsp;these kinds of things. They have confidence that's why they are doing it. The best thing is&nbsp;to&nbsp;enjoy it when you are trying different things and not think much about failures. The crowd wants to see different things from newcomers. I'm really happy that young cricketers are trying innovative things. I'm really happy,” Dilshan, who scored 10,290 ODI runs for Sri Lanka, added.&nbsp;

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No big deal - just a 144km/h ball from Mitchell Starc being ramped over the keeper's head for six! A bit of wizardry from Tillakaratne Dilshan, who turns 44 today <a href="https://t.co/KnmOxWz2kd">pic.twitter.com/KnmOxWz2kd</a>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1316313295528239105?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2020</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-blessed-to-have-2-players-like-ms-dhoni-in-rishabh-pant-and-ishan-kishan-says-saba-karim-370885" hreflang="en">India blessed to have 2 players like MS Dhoni in Rishabh Pant and Ishan Kishan, says Saba Karim</a>

But as a bowler, how do you deal with such players and strokes? Former Sri Lanka seamer&nbsp;Farveez&nbsp;Maharoof&nbsp;weighs his opinion as he said that the key is to follow batsmen till the last moment and adjust your deliveries accordingly. Maharoof went on to heap praise on Rishabh Pant as the former Sri Lankan&nbsp;international&nbsp;labelled Rishabh&nbsp;Pant's&nbsp;shots as ''outrageous''.&nbsp;

“I personally think that for any bowler, bowling to guys like Rishabh Pant or what Dilshan did in those days, is very difficult.&nbsp;What&nbsp;Rishabh just did recently is just outrageous.&nbsp;You know,&nbsp;bowlers bowling&nbsp;at&nbsp;around 150kph&nbsp;and having the guts to do that, it is unbelievable,” Maharoof answered a WION query.

“So&nbsp;basically,&nbsp;as a bowler,&nbsp;when I bowl at even this age, I&nbsp;follow&nbsp;the batsman till the last moment.&nbsp;So,&nbsp;if I see a batsman moving around in the crease, that is the easiest time to bowl into a batsman because you know what exactly is going to do. But what happens with these switch-hits, reverse paddle,&nbsp;Dilscoop, is it's at the last moment.&nbsp;So,&nbsp;the bowler has to release then the player plays his stroke.&nbsp;So that's where the fine line comes in.&nbsp;It's also a matter of having experience playing T20 cricket because we all know that bowlers are under the pump when it comes to T20 cricket. So, firstly&nbsp;you got to do the basics properly. And then think of you know how to tackle the especially guys like Dilshan and Rishabh, who play outrageous strokes,” the former Sri Lankan seamer explained.&nbsp;&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>

Dilshan and Maharoof are in India to participate in the Road Safety World Series and are representing Sri Lanka Legends. The tournament features some of the biggest names in world cricket with the likes of&nbsp;Sachin&nbsp;Tendulkar, Kevin Pietersen, Brian Lara among many others gracing the cricket field.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Furthermore, Zee5&nbsp;HiPi; a new Indian short-video platform, recently announced its association with the Sri Lanka Legends team. As a part of the partnership, the Sri Lanka Legends team will be sporting the&nbsp;HiPi&nbsp;logo on the leading side of their helmets and caps.&nbsp;The players will be performing various hashtag challenges in order to engage with the audience. The challenges will be related to cricket &amp; fitness and will be curated in a way that is easy to perform and fun to participate in.&nbsp;

“The association gives good exposure to the cricket team as well. And it's a good innovation overall because it gives us a platform where we can discuss things, and answer questions from the fans. There are a few things in the audience's mind or the fans have questions which the media persons ask us and through this association, we&nbsp;would be&nbsp;able to satisfy them&nbsp;and their queries,”&nbsp;Sri Lanka&nbsp;Legends&nbsp;CEO Yash Sardesai&nbsp;said.&nbsp;

The T20 format has helped the game of cricket evolve over the years. From the days when players used to be conservative about their shot-selection to youngsters playing fearless and glitzy shots, cricket has come a long way since the introduction of T20 cricket.

The T20 format has helped the game of cricket evolve over the years. From the days when players used to be conservative about their shot-selection to youngsters playing fearless and glitzy shots, cricket has come a long way since the introduction of T20 cricket. Former Sri Lankan batsman Tillakaratne Dilshan was the first player to play the scoop shot - over the wicket-keeper, against Australia in 2009 World T20 - which later became famous by the name of ‘Dilscoop’. Since then, the world of cricket has seen a plethora of innovative shots with the latest being Rishabh Pant's masterclass against England pacers James Anderson and Jofra Archer. The inventor of ‘Dilscoop’ - Dilshan – has lauded the fearless approach of Rishabh Pant and other youngsters as they continue to innovate and entertain the crowd with their batting while also helping their respective teams win matches across formats. Pant, who unleashed the reverse-swat, first against veteran pacer James Anderson in the fourth Test in Ahmedabad, left everyone flabbergasted by his sheer audacity to attempt the stroke against England's leading wicket-taker. But that was not enough, the youngster played a similar stroke against Jofra Archer when the England pacer was bowling at close to 150kph to leave everyone awestruck. Okay.. this isn’t just regular stuff Rishabh Pant!! Crazy shots on repeat #INDvENG pic.twitter.com/obPaBPsD6Y — Sawera Pasha (@sawerapasha) March 12, 2021 × ALSO READ: Exclusive: England favourites to win T20 World Cup but don't rule out India - Ryan Sidebottom Dilshan said he is extremely delighted to see youngsters showing confidence in their ability and are not taken aback by the pace or class of the bowler. “I think it's really good. Since the introduction of T20 cricket, few youngsters do different things on the field. For example, I tried to invent Dilscoop now people have tried to play the reverse sweeps, switch hits, paddles, etc. I think it is really a good thing that they are challenging themselves. I feel if any good cricketer can take that challenge, that's really good for the game to advance. It can go a long way. We can see not only in T20s or one-dayers but now even in Test cricket young cricketers try to take some chances by playing reverse sweeps and reverse paddles,” Dilshan answered to a WION query during a media interaction. “It is really good that they have the confidence to do these kinds of things. They have confidence that's why they are doing it. The best thing is to enjoy it when you are trying different things and not think much about failures. The crowd wants to see different things from newcomers. I'm really happy that young cricketers are trying innovative things. I'm really happy,” Dilshan, who scored 10,290 ODI runs for Sri Lanka, added. No big deal - just a 144km/h ball from Mitchell Starc being ramped over the keeper's head for six! A bit of wizardry from Tillakaratne Dilshan, who turns 44 today pic.twitter.com/KnmOxWz2kd — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) October 14, 2020 × ALSO READ: India blessed to have 2 players like MS Dhoni in Rishabh Pant and Ishan Kishan, says Saba Karim But as a bowler, how do you deal with such players and strokes? Former Sri Lanka seamer Farveez Maharoof weighs his opinion as he said that the key is to follow batsmen till the last moment and adjust your deliveries accordingly. Maharoof went on to heap praise on Rishabh Pant as the former Sri Lankan international labelled Rishabh Pant's shots as ''outrageous''. “I personally think that for any bowler, bowling to guys like Rishabh Pant or what Dilshan did in those days, is very difficult. What Rishabh just did recently is just outrageous. You know, bowlers bowling at around 150kph and having the guts to do that, it is unbelievable,” Maharoof answered a WION query. “So basically, as a bowler, when I bowl at even this age, I follow the batsman till the last moment. So, if I see a batsman moving around in the crease, that is the easiest time to bowl into a batsman because you know what exactly is going to do. But what happens with these switch-hits, reverse paddle, Dilscoop, is it's at the last moment. So, the bowler has to release then the player plays his stroke. So that's where the fine line comes in. It's also a matter of having experience playing T20 cricket because we all know that bowlers are under the pump when it comes to T20 cricket. So, firstly you got to do the basics properly. And then think of you know how to tackle the especially guys like Dilshan and Rishabh, who play outrageous strokes,” the former Sri Lankan seamer explained. ALSO READ: To officiate in T20 World Cup and Ashes is my next target: Nitin Menon to WION Dilshan and Maharoof are in India to participate in the Road Safety World Series and are representing Sri Lanka Legends. The tournament features some of the biggest names in world cricket with the likes of Sachin Tendulkar, Kevin Pietersen, Brian Lara among many others gracing the cricket field. Furthermore, Zee5 HiPi; a new Indian short-video platform, recently announced its association with the Sri Lanka Legends team. As a part of the partnership, the Sri Lanka Legends team will be sporting the HiPi logo on the leading side of their helmets and caps. The players will be performing various hashtag challenges in order to engage with the audience. The challenges will be related to cricket & fitness and will be curated in a way that is easy to perform and fun to participate in. “The association gives good exposure to the cricket team as well. And it's a good innovation overall because it gives us a platform where we can discuss things, and answer questions from the fans. There are a few things in the audience's mind or the fans have questions which the media persons ask us and through this association, we would be able to satisfy them and their queries,” Sri Lanka Legends CEO Yash Sardesai said.

What Rishabh Pant did against Anderson, Archer is outrageous, say Dilshan and Maharoof

India and England are set to play the third T20I of the five-match series at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Friday. The series is firmly poised at 1-1 after the end of the first two matches and&nbsp;both teams will look to take a lead in the series.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India, after losing the series opener, bounced back strong courtesy fine half-centuries from debutant Ishan Kishan and skipper Virat Kohli. However, with the match set to be played on a black-soil pitch, spinners are likely to come into play.&nbsp;&nbsp;

It would be interesting to see whether Indian opener Rohit Sharma gets a chance to feature in the match after being rested in the first two T20Is. KL Rahul getting dismissed for 1 and 0 is a concern for the Men in Blue but they are likely to give Rahul another match.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Whereas for England, Moeen Ali might play the game with one of the seamers expected to be rested for the match.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-blessed-to-have-2-players-like-ms-dhoni-in-rishabh-pant-and-ishan-kishan-says-saba-karim-370885" hreflang="en">India blessed to have 2 players like MS Dhoni in Rishabh Pant and Ishan Kishan, says Saba Karim</a>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{a65f8b1a-e6e3-4d21-bf02-ffc1a729f8a4}{228}" paraid="1839484160" >All you need to know about India vs England&nbsp;3rd&nbsp;T20I match in Ahmedabad:&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{4e568db8-6253-4e15-b3fe-b56bc2d5facc}{77}" paraid="478378134" >When and where will India vs England&nbsp;3rd&nbsp;T20I be played?&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

The third T20I of the five-match series between India and England will be played on March 16&nbsp;at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. The match will be played behind closed doors.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{4e568db8-6253-4e15-b3fe-b56bc2d5facc}{98}" paraid="1315718492" >What time will the third T20I match between India and England begin?&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

The&nbsp;third&nbsp;T20I between India and England will start at 7.00 PM IST. The toss will take place at 06:30 PM IST.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{4e568db8-6253-4e15-b3fe-b56bc2d5facc}{119}" paraid="510271428" >Which TV channels will telecast the third T20I match between India and England live?&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

The&nbsp;third&nbsp;T20I match between India and England will broadcast on Star Sports network.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{4e568db8-6253-4e15-b3fe-b56bc2d5facc}{140}" paraid="500078720" >How can I watch the live streaming of the third T20I match between India and England?&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

The&nbsp;third&nbsp;T20I match between India and England will be live-streamed on Disney +&nbsp;Hotstar&nbsp;app. &nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{4e568db8-6253-4e15-b3fe-b56bc2d5facc}{161}" paraid="444141641" >India vs England, T20I series -&nbsp;Full Squads:&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

India: Virat Kohli (Captain), Rohit Sharma (vice-captain), KL Rahul, Shikhar Dhawan, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik, Rishabh Pant (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk),&nbsp;Yuzvendra&nbsp;Chahal, Varun Chakravarthy,&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;Patel, Washington Sundar, Rahul&nbsp;Tewatia, T Natarajan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Deepak Chahar, Navdeep Saini, Shardul Thakur&nbsp;&nbsp;

England: Eoin Morgan (captain), Moeen Ali, Jofra Archer, Jonathan Bairstow, Sam Billings, Jos Buttler, Sam Curran, Tom Curran, Chris Jordan, Liam Livingstone, Dawid Malan, Adil Rashid, Jason Roy, Ben Stokes, Reece Topley, Mark Wood&nbsp;

&nbsp;

India and England are set to play the third T20I of the five-match series at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Friday. The series is firmly poised at 1-1 after the end of the first two matches and both teams will look to take a lead in the series.

India and England are set to play the third T20I of the five-match series at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Friday. The series is firmly poised at 1-1 after the end of the first two matches and both teams will look to take a lead in the series. India, after losing the series opener, bounced back strong courtesy fine half-centuries from debutant Ishan Kishan and skipper Virat Kohli. However, with the match set to be played on a black-soil pitch, spinners are likely to come into play. It would be interesting to see whether Indian opener Rohit Sharma gets a chance to feature in the match after being rested in the first two T20Is. KL Rahul getting dismissed for 1 and 0 is a concern for the Men in Blue but they are likely to give Rahul another match. Whereas for England, Moeen Ali might play the game with one of the seamers expected to be rested for the match. ALSO READ: India blessed to have 2 players like MS Dhoni in Rishabh Pant and Ishan Kishan, says Saba Karim All you need to know about India vs England 3rd T20I match in Ahmedabad: When and where will India vs England 3rd T20I be played? The third T20I of the five-match series between India and England will be played on March 16 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. The match will be played behind closed doors. What time will the third T20I match between India and England begin? The third T20I between India and England will start at 7.00 PM IST. The toss will take place at 06:30 PM IST. Which TV channels will telecast the third T20I match between India and England live? The third T20I match between India and England will broadcast on Star Sports network. How can I watch the live streaming of the third T20I match between India and England? The third T20I match between India and England will be live-streamed on Disney + Hotstar app. India vs England, T20I series - Full Squads: India: Virat Kohli (Captain), Rohit Sharma (vice-captain), KL Rahul, Shikhar Dhawan, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik, Rishabh Pant (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), Yuzvendra Chahal, Varun Chakravarthy, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Rahul Tewatia, T Natarajan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Deepak Chahar, Navdeep Saini, Shardul Thakur England: Eoin Morgan (captain), Moeen Ali, Jofra Archer, Jonathan Bairstow, Sam Billings, Jos Buttler, Sam Curran, Tom Curran, Chris Jordan, Liam Livingstone, Dawid Malan, Adil Rashid, Jason Roy, Ben Stokes, Reece Topley, Mark Wood

India vs England 3rd T20I Live Streaming: How and where to watch IND vs ENG match online?

United Arab Emirates (UAE) players Mohammad Naveed and Shaiman Anwar Butt have been banned from all cricket for eight years each after the ICC Anti-Corruption Tribunal found them guilty of breaching the ICC Anti-Corruption Code.

The bans are backdated to 16 October 2019, when they were provisionally suspended for attempting to corrupt matches of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Qualifier 2019 in the UAE.

Following a full hearing and presentation of written and oral argument, the Tribunal found both Naveed and Shaiman guilty of:

Article 2.1.1 – for being party to an agreement or effort to fix or contrive or otherwise influence improperly the result, progress, conduct or other aspect(s) of a match or matches at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Qualifier 2019.

Article 2.4.4 - Failing to disclose to the ACU full details of any approaches or invitations received to engage in corrupt conduct under the Code at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Qualifier 2019.

Naveed was also found guilty of breaching the following two counts of the Emirates Cricket Board Anti-Corruption Code for Participants of the T10 League 2019:

Article 2.1.1 – for being party to an agreement or effort to fix or contrive or otherwise influence improperly the result, progress, conduct or other aspect(s) of a match or matches at the T10 League 2019.

Article 2.4.4 - Failing to disclose to the ACU full details of any approaches or invitations received to engage in corrupt conduct under the Code at the T10 League 2019.&nbsp;

Alex Marshall, ICC General Manager – Integrity Unit, said: “Mohammad Naveed and Shaiman Anwar represented their adopted country, the UAE at the highest level in cricket.&nbsp;

“Naveed was the captain and leading wicket taker. Anwar was the opening bat. Both had long international careers and were well versed in the threat from match-fixers. That they both chose to engage with this corrupt activity was a cynical betrayal of their positions, their teammates, and all supporters of UAE cricket.&nbsp;

“I am pleased that the independent Tribunal has imposed significant bans from all forms of cricket and this should serve as a warning to any cricketer who considers taking the wrong path.” 
&nbsp;

United Arab Emirates (UAE) players Mohammad Naveed and Shaiman Anwar Butt have been banned from all cricket for eight years each after the ICC Anti-Corruption Tribunal found them guilty of breaching the ICC Anti-Corruption Code.

United Arab Emirates (UAE) players Mohammad Naveed and Shaiman Anwar Butt have been banned from all cricket for eight years each after the ICC Anti-Corruption Tribunal found them guilty of breaching the ICC Anti-Corruption Code. The bans are backdated to 16 October 2019, when they were provisionally suspended for attempting to corrupt matches of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Qualifier 2019 in the UAE. Following a full hearing and presentation of written and oral argument, the Tribunal found both Naveed and Shaiman guilty of: Article 2.1.1 – for being party to an agreement or effort to fix or contrive or otherwise influence improperly the result, progress, conduct or other aspect(s) of a match or matches at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Qualifier 2019. Article 2.4.4 - Failing to disclose to the ACU full details of any approaches or invitations received to engage in corrupt conduct under the Code at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Qualifier 2019. Naveed was also found guilty of breaching the following two counts of the Emirates Cricket Board Anti-Corruption Code for Participants of the T10 League 2019: Article 2.1.1 – for being party to an agreement or effort to fix or contrive or otherwise influence improperly the result, progress, conduct or other aspect(s) of a match or matches at the T10 League 2019. Article 2.4.4 - Failing to disclose to the ACU full details of any approaches or invitations received to engage in corrupt conduct under the Code at the T10 League 2019. Alex Marshall, ICC General Manager – Integrity Unit, said: “Mohammad Naveed and Shaiman Anwar represented their adopted country, the UAE at the highest level in cricket. “Naveed was the captain and leading wicket taker. Anwar was the opening bat. Both had long international careers and were well versed in the threat from match-fixers. That they both chose to engage with this corrupt activity was a cynical betrayal of their positions, their teammates, and all supporters of UAE cricket. “I am pleased that the independent Tribunal has imposed significant bans from all forms of cricket and this should serve as a warning to any cricketer who considers taking the wrong path.”

Naveen, Shaiman banned for 8 years each under ICC Anti-Corruption Code

Former India wicket-keeper Saba Karim has said that the Men in Blue are ''blessed'' to have two talented players in Ishan Kishan and Rishabh Pant who are similar to MS Dhoni.&nbsp;The former&nbsp;glovesman&nbsp;further said that he expects both Pant and Ishan to play for India in all three formats of the game and do well.&nbsp;

Karim has been left impressed by Ishan and&nbsp;Pant’s&nbsp;aggression and also how the two youngsters are playing fearless cricket with calculated risks.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"It seems like that. If the Indian team can get two Dhoni's, there cannot be a bigger thing than that. The fearless and carefree manner in which both these players have played and they know what their roles are and showed amazing aggression and that too with calculated risks,” Karim said during a discussion on India News.&nbsp;

The former cricketer added that Ishan and Pant are match-winners and India are blessed to have the duo in the shortest format of the game.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/r-ashwin-explains-why-he-finds-questions-on-return-to-odis-t20is-as-laughable-370868" hreflang="en">R Ashwin explains why he finds questions on return to ODIs, T20Is as 'laughable'</a>

"Both the batsmen have always attempted to prove themselves as match-winners. Earlier Rishabh Pant proved that and now when Ishan Kishan has been given an opportunity, his mindset has also been similar.&nbsp;

"So&nbsp;I feel India is blessed to have match-winning ability players like Ishan Kishan and Rishabh Pant in the shorter format of the game. I have full confidence that in the future Ishan Kishan and Rishabh Pant will represent India in all three formats," Karim added.&nbsp;

Pant has seen a turnaround in his career. After being sidelined from all formats of the game, the southpaw stormed back into form in the last three months and won games for India against Australia and England. Whereas Ishan became the second Indian, after Ajinkya Rahane, to score&nbsp;a half-century in T20I debut.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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>

Karim reckons Ishan and Pant have a solid foundation after representing India in the Under-19 World Cup in 2016.&nbsp;

“Ishan Kishan and Rishabh Pant have both played the Under-19 World Cup for India in 2016.&nbsp;So&nbsp;their foundation has been extremely solid. They know their responsibilities in international cricket and how they have to prove themselves,” Karim further said&nbsp;

Former India wicket-keeper Saba Karim has said that the Men in Blue are ''blessed'' to have two talented players in Ishan Kishan and Rishabh Pant who are similar to MS Dhoni.

Former India wicket-keeper Saba Karim has said that the Men in Blue are ''blessed'' to have two talented players in Ishan Kishan and Rishabh Pant who are similar to MS Dhoni. The former glovesman further said that he expects both Pant and Ishan to play for India in all three formats of the game and do well. Karim has been left impressed by Ishan and Pant’s aggression and also how the two youngsters are playing fearless cricket with calculated risks. "It seems like that. If the Indian team can get two Dhoni's, there cannot be a bigger thing than that. The fearless and carefree manner in which both these players have played and they know what their roles are and showed amazing aggression and that too with calculated risks,” Karim said during a discussion on India News. The former cricketer added that Ishan and Pant are match-winners and India are blessed to have the duo in the shortest format of the game. ALSO READ: R Ashwin explains why he finds questions on return to ODIs, T20Is as 'laughable' "Both the batsmen have always attempted to prove themselves as match-winners. Earlier Rishabh Pant proved that and now when Ishan Kishan has been given an opportunity, his mindset has also been similar. "So I feel India is blessed to have match-winning ability players like Ishan Kishan and Rishabh Pant in the shorter format of the game. I have full confidence that in the future Ishan Kishan and Rishabh Pant will represent India in all three formats," Karim added. Pant has seen a turnaround in his career. After being sidelined from all formats of the game, the southpaw stormed back into form in the last three months and won games for India against Australia and England. Whereas Ishan became the second Indian, after Ajinkya Rahane, to score a half-century in T20I debut. ALSO READ: Exclusive: England favourites to win T20 World Cup but don't rule out India - Ryan Sidebottom Karim reckons Ishan and Pant have a solid foundation after representing India in the Under-19 World Cup in 2016. “Ishan Kishan and Rishabh Pant have both played the Under-19 World Cup for India in 2016. So their foundation has been extremely solid. They know their responsibilities in international cricket and how they have to prove themselves,” Karim further said

India blessed to have 2 players like MS Dhoni in Rishabh Pant and Ishan Kishan, says Saba Karim

Veteran Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has said that he is ready to give a "game-breaking performance” if called up to Team India's limited-overs squad. The off-spinner who&nbsp;was the pick of the bowlers in Test series against Australia and England find himself out of India's T20I side but Ashwin has&nbsp;said he finds himself at peace with the life he's leading right now.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ashwin was the leading wicket-taker among spinners in Australia as he scalped 12 wickets in three matches. The veteran returned to home soil and picked up 32 wickets in 4 Tests to end up being the leading wicket-taker in the series. However, he was not named in India's T20I squad versus England.&nbsp;Despite not being named in the limited-overs squad, Ashwin finds questions on his return to ODI and T20I cricket "laughable".&nbsp;

"A lot of times people tell these lines on leadership forums that 'you need to compete with yourself. But I have definitely found the balance and learned in life about how I must be competing with myself and be at complete peace when I am doing that," Ashwin told India Today.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/man-threatens-to-kill-himself-if-india-england-t20i-series-is-not-cancelled-amid-covid-19-spike-370850" hreflang="en">Man threatens to kill himself if India-England T20I series is not cancelled amid COVID-19 spike</a>

"Because when some of these questions are asked about my ODI return, T20I return, white-ball dreams, and all these things, I find those questions are really laughable because I am totally at peace and extremely happy with the life I am leading right now," he added.&nbsp;

"That given an opportunity anywhere, I would make a game-breaking performance which I am almost certain about because of the space I find myself in.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-rates-ahmedabad-pitch-for-two-day-test-match-average-370728" hreflang="en">ICC rates Ahmedabad pitch for two-day test match 'average'</a>

"What questions people have to ask, what opinions people have, I am not worried about at all. As of now, every single game I play out there in the park, I want to leave a smile on my face and everybody else's," Ashwin signed off.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the five-match T20I series between India and England hangs in balance with the&nbsp;scoreline&nbsp;1-1 after the end of two matches.&nbsp;

Veteran Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has said that he is ready to give a "game-breaking performance” if called up to Team India's limited-overs squad. The off-spinner who was the pick of the bowlers in Test series against Australia and England find himself out of India's T20I side but Ashwin has said he finds himself at peace with the life he's leading right now.

Veteran Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has said that he is ready to give a "game-breaking performance” if called up to Team India's limited-overs squad. The off-spinner who was the pick of the bowlers in Test series against Australia and England find himself out of India's T20I side but Ashwin has said he finds himself at peace with the life he's leading right now. Ashwin was the leading wicket-taker among spinners in Australia as he scalped 12 wickets in three matches. The veteran returned to home soil and picked up 32 wickets in 4 Tests to end up being the leading wicket-taker in the series. However, he was not named in India's T20I squad versus England. Despite not being named in the limited-overs squad, Ashwin finds questions on his return to ODI and T20I cricket "laughable". "A lot of times people tell these lines on leadership forums that 'you need to compete with yourself. But I have definitely found the balance and learned in life about how I must be competing with myself and be at complete peace when I am doing that," Ashwin told India Today. ALSO READ: Man threatens to kill himself if India-England T20I series is not cancelled amid COVID-19 spike "Because when some of these questions are asked about my ODI return, T20I return, white-ball dreams, and all these things, I find those questions are really laughable because I am totally at peace and extremely happy with the life I am leading right now," he added. "That given an opportunity anywhere, I would make a game-breaking performance which I am almost certain about because of the space I find myself in. ALSO READ: ICC rates Ahmedabad pitch for two-day test match 'average' "What questions people have to ask, what opinions people have, I am not worried about at all. As of now, every single game I play out there in the park, I want to leave a smile on my face and everybody else's," Ashwin signed off. Meanwhile, the five-match T20I series between India and England hangs in balance with the scoreline 1-1 after the end of two matches.

R Ashwin explains why he finds questions on return to ODIs, T20Is as 'laughable'

A probe has been initiated after a person called a police officer, who is part of the security arrangements for the ongoing T20I between India and England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, and threatened to&nbsp;self-immolate&nbsp;if the upcoming matches in the world's largest cricket stadium were not cancelled following the rise of COVID-19 cases in the city.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The five-match T20I series, which started on March 12, has witnessed a crowd of more than 60,000 at the stadium. The stadium had hosted the last two Tests of the four-match series against England with a 50 per cent crowd.&nbsp;&nbsp;

According to reports, an FIR was lodged at Chandkheda police station in Ahmedabad after the call - identified as Pankaj Patel from Gandhinagar, rang up senior police inspector KV Patel of Chandkheda Police Station on March 12 and threatened to immolate himself if the matches continued&nbsp;in the stadium, as per the police.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-england-games-go-behind-closed-doors-because-of-pandemic-370834" hreflang="en">India-England games go behind closed doors because of pandemic</a>

On Saturday, an audio clip of the conversation surfaced on social media in which the caller, is heard asking the police officer&nbsp;whether&nbsp;the COVID-19 related guidelines were&nbsp;being&nbsp;followed inside the stadium by the crowd.&nbsp;

The officer purportedly said that the social-distancing guidelines are not being followed with the caller demanding cancellation of the matches and then went on to threaten to self-immolate while saying that over 75,000 people are attending the matches which can pose a health risk.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Police have booked the accused under IPC sections 502 (2) for trying to promote hatred or ill will between&nbsp;classes, 504 for intentional insult, and 507 for criminal intimidation through anonymous communication.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-rates-ahmedabad-pitch-for-two-day-test-match-average-370728" hreflang="en">ICC rates Ahmedabad pitch for two-day test match 'average'</a>

“The man had called on my cell phone on March 12 and threatened to immolate himself if the matches are held. He also used abusive words for the Gujarat government, the Chief Minister, and the Deputy Chief Minister. When I asked his name, he told me he is Pankaj Patel from Gandhinagar. I immediately called up Gandhinagar police control room and shared his phone number with the officials,” K V Patel stated in the FIR&nbsp;as quoted in media reports.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, it was announced by the BCCI that the remaining matches of the five-match T20I series between India and England will be played behind closed doors.

A probe has been initiated after a person called a police officer, who is part of the security arrangements for the ongoing T20I between India and England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, and threatened to self-immolate if the upcoming matches in the world's largest cricket stadium were not cancelled following the rise of COVID-19 cases in the city.

A probe has been initiated after a person called a police officer, who is part of the security arrangements for the ongoing T20I between India and England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, and threatened to self-immolate if the upcoming matches in the world's largest cricket stadium were not cancelled following the rise of COVID-19 cases in the city. The five-match T20I series, which started on March 12, has witnessed a crowd of more than 60,000 at the stadium. The stadium had hosted the last two Tests of the four-match series against England with a 50 per cent crowd. According to reports, an FIR was lodged at Chandkheda police station in Ahmedabad after the call - identified as Pankaj Patel from Gandhinagar, rang up senior police inspector KV Patel of Chandkheda Police Station on March 12 and threatened to immolate himself if the matches continued in the stadium, as per the police. ALSO READ: India-England games go behind closed doors because of pandemic On Saturday, an audio clip of the conversation surfaced on social media in which the caller, is heard asking the police officer whether the COVID-19 related guidelines were being followed inside the stadium by the crowd. The officer purportedly said that the social-distancing guidelines are not being followed with the caller demanding cancellation of the matches and then went on to threaten to self-immolate while saying that over 75,000 people are attending the matches which can pose a health risk. Police have booked the accused under IPC sections 502 (2) for trying to promote hatred or ill will between classes, 504 for intentional insult, and 507 for criminal intimidation through anonymous communication. ALSO READ: ICC rates Ahmedabad pitch for two-day test match 'average' “The man had called on my cell phone on March 12 and threatened to immolate himself if the matches are held. He also used abusive words for the Gujarat government, the Chief Minister, and the Deputy Chief Minister. When I asked his name, he told me he is Pankaj Patel from Gandhinagar. I immediately called up Gandhinagar police control room and shared his phone number with the officials,” K V Patel stated in the FIR as quoted in media reports. On Tuesday, it was announced by the BCCI that the remaining matches of the five-match T20I series between India and England will be played behind closed doors.

Man threatens to kill himself if India-England T20I series is not cancelled amid COVID-19 spike

South Africa opener Lizelle Lee has shot up seven spots to become the top-ranked batter in the ICC Women’s ODI Player Rankings after a fabulous run in the ongoing five-match series against India in which her side has taken a winning 3-1 lead.

Lee, who displaced Tammy Beaumont within two weeks of the England batter seizing the top spot, had scores of four, 132 not out and 69 in the three matches during the past week after having already moved from 11th to eighth the previous week with an unbeaten 83 in the series opener.&nbsp;

This is the second time that Lee has topped the ODI batting charts, having earlier taken the number one position in June 2018 when she had slammed 117 against England at Hove. Her reign that time only lasted for three days as she was overtaken by Australia’s Ellyse Perry. Lee remains the only South African to top the women’s ODI batting rankings.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/man-threatens-to-kill-himself-if-india-england-t20i-series-is-not-cancelled-amid-covid-19-spike-370850" hreflang="en">Man threatens to kill himself if India-England T20I series is not cancelled amid COVID-19 spike</a>

Laura Goodall, whose career-best 59 not out helped seal the decisive win in Lucknow, has gained 27 places to reach 48th position while off-spinner Nondumiso Shangase has moved up 18 places to 68th among bowlers. Ayabonga Khaka has advanced one place to ninth among bowlers and gained two slots to reach 100th among batters.

For India, Punam Raut has been the biggest gainer, moving up eight places to 18th among batters after scores of 62 not out, 77 and 104 not out. Raut, who has held a career-high ranking of 13th, is fourth in the list among Indian batters after Smriti Mandhana (seventh) Mithali Raj (ninth) and Harmanpreet Kaur (15th). Kaur is up two places among batters and has gained three places to reach 49th position in the bowling list.

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Left-arm spinner Rajeshwari Gayakwad is another one to make notable gains, gaining four slots to reach 18th among bowlers with five wickets in three matches and advancing five places to 71st among batters. Sushma Verma (up three places to 81st among batters) and Mansi Joshi (up five places to 64th among bowlers) have also gained in the latest weekly update.

South Africa opener Lizelle Lee has shot up seven spots to become the top-ranked batter in the ICC Women’s ODI Player Rankings after a fabulous run in the ongoing five-match series against India in which her side has taken a winning 3-1 lead.

South Africa opener Lizelle Lee has shot up seven spots to become the top-ranked batter in the ICC Women’s ODI Player Rankings after a fabulous run in the ongoing five-match series against India in which her side has taken a winning 3-1 lead. Lee, who displaced Tammy Beaumont within two weeks of the England batter seizing the top spot, had scores of four, 132 not out and 69 in the three matches during the past week after having already moved from 11th to eighth the previous week with an unbeaten 83 in the series opener. This is the second time that Lee has topped the ODI batting charts, having earlier taken the number one position in June 2018 when she had slammed 117 against England at Hove. Her reign that time only lasted for three days as she was overtaken by Australia’s Ellyse Perry. Lee remains the only South African to top the women’s ODI batting rankings. ALSO READ: Man threatens to kill himself if India-England T20I series is not cancelled amid COVID-19 spike Laura Goodall, whose career-best 59 not out helped seal the decisive win in Lucknow, has gained 27 places to reach 48th position while off-spinner Nondumiso Shangase has moved up 18 places to 68th among bowlers. Ayabonga Khaka has advanced one place to ninth among bowlers and gained two slots to reach 100th among batters. For India, Punam Raut has been the biggest gainer, moving up eight places to 18th among batters after scores of 62 not out, 77 and 104 not out. Raut, who has held a career-high ranking of 13th, is fourth in the list among Indian batters after Smriti Mandhana (seventh) Mithali Raj (ninth) and Harmanpreet Kaur (15th). Kaur is up two places among batters and has gained three places to reach 49th position in the bowling list. TRENDING: In Pics: Jasprit Bumrah gets bowled over, marries Sanjana Ganesan in Goa Left-arm spinner Rajeshwari Gayakwad is another one to make notable gains, gaining four slots to reach 18th among bowlers with five wickets in three matches and advancing five places to 71st among batters. Sushma Verma (up three places to 81st among batters) and Mansi Joshi (up five places to 64th among bowlers) have also gained in the latest weekly update.

ICC Women's Player Rankings: Lizelle Lee replaces Beaumont as no.1 batter in ODIs

LeBron James bagged his fourth triple-double of the season as the Los Angeles Lakers thrashed the Golden State Warriors 128-97 on Monday.

James finished with 22 points, 10 rebounds and 11 assists as the Lakers dominated almost from start to finish for an impressive win on the road at the Chase Center.

Stephen Curry led the Golden State scoring with 27 points but the much hoped-for duel with All-Star game team-mate James never materialised as the Dubs struggled to contain the Lakers' offense.

Montrezl Harrell had 27 points off the bench to lead the Lakers scoring while Kyle Kuzma finished with 17 points.

The Lakers improved to 26-13 to remain in third place in the Western Conference while the Warriors fell to ninth place with 20-20.&nbsp;

Elsewhere on Monday, Giannis Antetokounmpo reeled off his third straight triple-double as the Milwaukee Bucks extended their winning streak to four games with a 133-122 victory over the Washington Wizards.

Antetokounmpo finished with 31 points, 15 rebounds and 10 assists in another MVP-caliber performance that came two days after his 33-point triple double against the Wizards on Saturday.

"We feel like we've said it a lot after games for a good stretch of time now -- he's been in a good place mentally for a while," Bucks coach Mike Budenholzer said of Antetokounmpo's performance at Washington's Capital One Arena.

"The way he's playing, creating for others, creating for himself. He's just playing great basketball," Budenholzer added.

Khris Middleton added 23 points for Milwaukee while center Brook Lopez finished with 22 as seven Bucks players cracked double figures.

Bradley Beal led Washington's scoring with 37 points after going 13-of-19 from the field&nbsp; with four three-pointers.

Russell Westbrook finished with 23 points and 17 assists while Japan's Rui Hachimura added 22 points for Washington.

Milwaukee improved to 25-14 with the win and remain third in the Eastern Conference behind Brooklyn and leaders Philadelphia.

<h2>- Tempers flare -</h2>

In other games Monday, James Harden bagged a triple double and Kyrie Irving added 34 points as the Brooklyn Nets rolled to a fifth consecutive victory with a 117-112 win over the New York Knicks.

Harden finished with 21 points, 15 rebounds and 15 assists in a superb individual display at Brooklyn's Barclays Center.

Irving's 34-point display was backed by Jeff Green (20 points) and Joe Harris with 13 points.

The Knicks meanwhile fell just short of a fourth quarter comeback after coming within three points of Brooklyn with 10 seconds remaining having trailed by 18 points earlier in the half.

Knicks forward Julius Randle needed to be restrained by team-mates at the buzzer after a controversial travelling call effectively handed Brooklyn the win.

Randle, who finished with 33 points, 12 rebounds and six assists, angrily slammed over a chair as he headed to the locker room following the loss.

"I was frustrated. We fought so hard to come back and win the game. I was just frustrated," Randle said afterwards, declining to dwell on the incident.&nbsp;

"It's best I don't comment on the situation. There was a lot of frustration behind it for both sides. I'll let it be in the past."

Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau also played down Randle's outburst.

"It's an emotional game, he calmed down right away," Thibodeau said. "Sometimes it goes your way with the whistles, sometimes it doesn't. I thought Julius played a terrific game."

Elsewhere Monday, the Los Angeles Clippers overpowered the Dallas Mavericks 109-99 on the road with Kawhi Leonard leading an all-round offensive effort.&nbsp;

Leonard finished with 22 points on a night when no fewer than seven players reached double figures for the Clippers.&nbsp;

Luka Doncic led the Mavs scoring with 25 points, 10 rebounds and 16 assists while Kristaps Porzingis added 22 points.

LeBron James bagged his fourth triple-double of the season as the Los Angeles Lakers thrashed the Golden State Warriors 128-97 on Monday. James finished with 22 points, 10 rebounds and 11 assists as the Lakers dominated almost from start to finish for an impressive win on the road at the Chase Center.

LeBron James bagged his fourth triple-double of the season as the Los Angeles Lakers thrashed the Golden State Warriors 128-97 on Monday. James finished with 22 points, 10 rebounds and 11 assists as the Lakers dominated almost from start to finish for an impressive win on the road at the Chase Center. Stephen Curry led the Golden State scoring with 27 points but the much hoped-for duel with All-Star game team-mate James never materialised as the Dubs struggled to contain the Lakers' offense. Montrezl Harrell had 27 points off the bench to lead the Lakers scoring while Kyle Kuzma finished with 17 points. The Lakers improved to 26-13 to remain in third place in the Western Conference while the Warriors fell to ninth place with 20-20. Elsewhere on Monday, Giannis Antetokounmpo reeled off his third straight triple-double as the Milwaukee Bucks extended their winning streak to four games with a 133-122 victory over the Washington Wizards. Antetokounmpo finished with 31 points, 15 rebounds and 10 assists in another MVP-caliber performance that came two days after his 33-point triple double against the Wizards on Saturday. "We feel like we've said it a lot after games for a good stretch of time now -- he's been in a good place mentally for a while," Bucks coach Mike Budenholzer said of Antetokounmpo's performance at Washington's Capital One Arena. "The way he's playing, creating for others, creating for himself. He's just playing great basketball," Budenholzer added. Khris Middleton added 23 points for Milwaukee while center Brook Lopez finished with 22 as seven Bucks players cracked double figures. Bradley Beal led Washington's scoring with 37 points after going 13-of-19 from the field with four three-pointers. Russell Westbrook finished with 23 points and 17 assists while Japan's Rui Hachimura added 22 points for Washington. Milwaukee improved to 25-14 with the win and remain third in the Eastern Conference behind Brooklyn and leaders Philadelphia. - Tempers flare - In other games Monday, James Harden bagged a triple double and Kyrie Irving added 34 points as the Brooklyn Nets rolled to a fifth consecutive victory with a 117-112 win over the New York Knicks. Harden finished with 21 points, 15 rebounds and 15 assists in a superb individual display at Brooklyn's Barclays Center. Irving's 34-point display was backed by Jeff Green (20 points) and Joe Harris with 13 points. The Knicks meanwhile fell just short of a fourth quarter comeback after coming within three points of Brooklyn with 10 seconds remaining having trailed by 18 points earlier in the half. Knicks forward Julius Randle needed to be restrained by team-mates at the buzzer after a controversial travelling call effectively handed Brooklyn the win. Randle, who finished with 33 points, 12 rebounds and six assists, angrily slammed over a chair as he headed to the locker room following the loss. "I was frustrated. We fought so hard to come back and win the game. I was just frustrated," Randle said afterwards, declining to dwell on the incident. "It's best I don't comment on the situation. There was a lot of frustration behind it for both sides. I'll let it be in the past." Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau also played down Randle's outburst. "It's an emotional game, he calmed down right away," Thibodeau said. "Sometimes it goes your way with the whistles, sometimes it doesn't. I thought Julius played a terrific game." Elsewhere Monday, the Los Angeles Clippers overpowered the Dallas Mavericks 109-99 on the road with Kawhi Leonard leading an all-round offensive effort. Leonard finished with 22 points on a night when no fewer than seven players reached double figures for the Clippers. Luka Doncic led the Mavs scoring with 25 points, 10 rebounds and 16 assists while Kristaps Porzingis added 22 points.

LeBron leads Lakers rout, triple trio for Giannis in Bucks win

Jurgen Klopp said he had no problem with winning "three dirty points" as Diogo Jota returned to haunt Wolves with the only goal in a 1-0 win at Molineux on Monday.

A wretched run of six successive home league defeats has left Liverpool with an uphill task to qualify for the Champions League next season.

But Klopp's men have now won six of their last seven games away from Anfield.

Victory moved the English champions back up to sixth and within five points of fourth-placed Chelsea.

"It's all about the result," said Klopp. "It was a big fight. We won three dirty points, I am completely fine with that. We need that to get back on track."

A disappointing night for Wolves ended with a bigger concern than just the result as goalkeeper Rui Patricio had to be stretchered off after 15 minutes of treatment for a head injury following a collision with his own player Connor Coady in the closing stages.

However, Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo allayed fears over the Portuguese international's health.

"He's OK. He's conscious, he remembers what happens, he's aware, so they tell me he's OK," said Nuno. "He's going to recover, so it's OK."

Wolves have already been badly affected by a serious head injury this season. Their top scorer for the past two seasons, Raul Jimenez, has been out since fracturing his skull against Arsenal in November.

The absence of Jimenez means Nuno's men have missed Jota even more since he joined the English champions for an initial £41 million ($57 million) in September.

Jota has also been missed by Liverpool for much of the past three months due to a knee injury that halted his flying start to life at Anfield.

But the winger is hopeful his return can inspire a strong end to the season to secure Champions League football either via the Premier League or winning Liverpool's seventh European Cup.

"Hopefully this can be a great start of a run towards the end of the season," said Jota.

<h2>- Alisson escapes -</h2>

Klopp named the same side that bounced back to form with a 2-0 win over RB Leipzig last midweek to reach the quarter-finals of the Champions League.

However, the visitors should have been punished for a slow start as goalkeeper Alisson Becker somehow escaped without conceding a penalty when he crashed into Nelson Semedo after just two minutes.

Sadio Mane missed two big chances at the other end to open the scoring for the visitors, but the Senegalese did have a part to play in the only goal of the game in first-half stoppage time as he exchanged passes with Mohamed Salah before teeing up Jota for a low shot that should have been kept out by Patricio low to his right.

Liverpool's lack of fluency compared to the side that romped to the title last season was even more clear after the break as they were happy to sit on their lead and would have been punished by a more clinical opponent.

Coady headed wide a great chance to score against his former club, while Adama Traore stung the palms of Alisson and Fabio Silva's weak header floated into the grateful Liverpool 'keeper's arms.

But with Jimenez watching on from the stands, even Liverpool's makeshift central defensive pairing of Nat Phillips and Ozan Kabak were not asked serious questions.

Salah had a second goal for Liverpool ruled out for offside five minutes from time. During his attempt to stop the Egyptian, Coady inadvertently caught his goalkeeper.

A lengthy stoppage ensued before the game restarted in the 100th minute and Wolves used a concussion substitute as John Ruddy replaced Patricio.

Despite a nervy finale, Liverpool held out to take advantage of a weekend in which a host of the other contenders for the top four all faltered.

Jurgen Klopp said he had no problem with winning "three dirty points" as Diogo Jota returned to haunt Wolves with the only goal in a 1-0 win at Molineux on Monday.

Jurgen Klopp said he had no problem with winning "three dirty points" as Diogo Jota returned to haunt Wolves with the only goal in a 1-0 win at Molineux on Monday. A wretched run of six successive home league defeats has left Liverpool with an uphill task to qualify for the Champions League next season. But Klopp's men have now won six of their last seven games away from Anfield. Victory moved the English champions back up to sixth and within five points of fourth-placed Chelsea. "It's all about the result," said Klopp. "It was a big fight. We won three dirty points, I am completely fine with that. We need that to get back on track." A disappointing night for Wolves ended with a bigger concern than just the result as goalkeeper Rui Patricio had to be stretchered off after 15 minutes of treatment for a head injury following a collision with his own player Connor Coady in the closing stages. However, Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo allayed fears over the Portuguese international's health. "He's OK. He's conscious, he remembers what happens, he's aware, so they tell me he's OK," said Nuno. "He's going to recover, so it's OK." Wolves have already been badly affected by a serious head injury this season. Their top scorer for the past two seasons, Raul Jimenez, has been out since fracturing his skull against Arsenal in November. The absence of Jimenez means Nuno's men have missed Jota even more since he joined the English champions for an initial £41 million ($57 million) in September. Jota has also been missed by Liverpool for much of the past three months due to a knee injury that halted his flying start to life at Anfield. But the winger is hopeful his return can inspire a strong end to the season to secure Champions League football either via the Premier League or winning Liverpool's seventh European Cup. "Hopefully this can be a great start of a run towards the end of the season," said Jota. - Alisson escapes - Klopp named the same side that bounced back to form with a 2-0 win over RB Leipzig last midweek to reach the quarter-finals of the Champions League. However, the visitors should have been punished for a slow start as goalkeeper Alisson Becker somehow escaped without conceding a penalty when he crashed into Nelson Semedo after just two minutes. Sadio Mane missed two big chances at the other end to open the scoring for the visitors, but the Senegalese did have a part to play in the only goal of the game in first-half stoppage time as he exchanged passes with Mohamed Salah before teeing up Jota for a low shot that should have been kept out by Patricio low to his right. Liverpool's lack of fluency compared to the side that romped to the title last season was even more clear after the break as they were happy to sit on their lead and would have been punished by a more clinical opponent. Coady headed wide a great chance to score against his former club, while Adama Traore stung the palms of Alisson and Fabio Silva's weak header floated into the grateful Liverpool 'keeper's arms. But with Jimenez watching on from the stands, even Liverpool's makeshift central defensive pairing of Nat Phillips and Ozan Kabak were not asked serious questions. Salah had a second goal for Liverpool ruled out for offside five minutes from time. During his attempt to stop the Egyptian, Coady inadvertently caught his goalkeeper. A lengthy stoppage ensued before the game restarted in the 100th minute and Wolves used a concussion substitute as John Ruddy replaced Patricio. Despite a nervy finale, Liverpool held out to take advantage of a weekend in which a host of the other contenders for the top four all faltered.

Klopp happy to win 'dirty' as Jota returns to haunt Wolves

Lionel Messi scored a spectacular double the same night he equalled Xavi Hernandez's appearance record for Barcelona, the Argentinian inspiring his team to a 4-1 win over Huesca on Monday.&nbsp;

Messi tied Xavi's 767 games in all competitions for Barca and marked yet another milestone with a brilliant brace, a curling effort in the first half flying in off the crossbar at Camp Nou before a late shot nestled in the corner.&nbsp;

"He's the most important man in the history of Barca," said coach Ronald Koeman. "Even better that he's still with us."

Antoine Griezmann had earlier followed suit with another impressive shot into the top corner before Huesca pulled one back, Rafa Mir converting a doubtful penalty on the stroke of half-time.&nbsp;

But Messi helped Barca pull away, sending in a cross for Oscar Mingueza to head in and then scoring his second as the Catalans moved to within four points of league leaders Atletico Madrid.

Messi's performance had all the key elements of the 33-year-old's genius. In a game that celebrated his longevity, he showed his class with perhaps his best goal of the season, his creativity with an assist and his consistency, by making it 13 consecutive campaigns that he has reached 20 La Liga goals.&nbsp;

"He's so decisive," said Huesca's Mir. "They play with one man extra."

Huesca stay bottom, four points adrift of safety, while Barcelona continue their own excellent form.

They have now managed 11 wins and a draw from their last 12 matches, putting them within sight of Atletico, who they still have to play at home in May.&nbsp;

Messi should break Xavi's record on Sunday against Real Sociedad and the club toasted his achievement with a video that included tributes from numerous current and former team-mates including Gerard Pique, Sergio Busquets, Luis Suarez, Neymar, Andres Iniesta, Carlos Puyol and Xavi himself.&nbsp;

"You're still breaking records," said Suarez. "I think this one says a lot about you as a player and what you represent for Barcelona."

"We think you're extraordinary, something from another planet," said Neymar.&nbsp;

Koeman played Frenkie de Jong again in the centre of a back three but he was replaced in the second half by Ronald Araujo, whose return from injury should also be a major boost to Barca during the run-in.&nbsp;

Messi rose to the occasion in the 13th minute. He darted back to receive a pass from Busquets and flicked his first touch around the sliding Jorge Pulido. The ball was still spinning when he tapped it forward and whipped a shot that flew off the crossbar and in.&nbsp;

Barcelona were dominant and Jordi Alba thrashed a shot against the crossbar before Griezmann made it two, played into space by Pedri and driving another thundering effort into the same corner Messi had picked out.&nbsp;

De Jong poked a cross onto bar and Huesca were given hope at the end of the half when a scintillating counter-attack was rewarded with a mysterious penalty, Mir failing to connect with Ferreiro's cross but given a spot-kick anyway, seemingly for a late challenge from Marc-Andre ter Stegen. Mir made no mistake.&nbsp;

Yet Barca gave themselves breathing space when Mingueza headed in his first Barcelona goal from a cross by Messi, who had the last word, cutting in from the right and firing into the bottom corner for his 661st.

Lionel Messi scored a spectacular double the same night he equalled Xavi Hernandez's appearance record for Barcelona, the Argentinian inspiring his team to a 4-1 win over Huesca on Monday.

Lionel Messi scored a spectacular double the same night he equalled Xavi Hernandez's appearance record for Barcelona, the Argentinian inspiring his team to a 4-1 win over Huesca on Monday. Messi tied Xavi's 767 games in all competitions for Barca and marked yet another milestone with a brilliant brace, a curling effort in the first half flying in off the crossbar at Camp Nou before a late shot nestled in the corner. "He's the most important man in the history of Barca," said coach Ronald Koeman. "Even better that he's still with us." Antoine Griezmann had earlier followed suit with another impressive shot into the top corner before Huesca pulled one back, Rafa Mir converting a doubtful penalty on the stroke of half-time. But Messi helped Barca pull away, sending in a cross for Oscar Mingueza to head in and then scoring his second as the Catalans moved to within four points of league leaders Atletico Madrid. Messi's performance had all the key elements of the 33-year-old's genius. In a game that celebrated his longevity, he showed his class with perhaps his best goal of the season, his creativity with an assist and his consistency, by making it 13 consecutive campaigns that he has reached 20 La Liga goals. "He's so decisive," said Huesca's Mir. "They play with one man extra." Huesca stay bottom, four points adrift of safety, while Barcelona continue their own excellent form. They have now managed 11 wins and a draw from their last 12 matches, putting them within sight of Atletico, who they still have to play at home in May. Messi should break Xavi's record on Sunday against Real Sociedad and the club toasted his achievement with a video that included tributes from numerous current and former team-mates including Gerard Pique, Sergio Busquets, Luis Suarez, Neymar, Andres Iniesta, Carlos Puyol and Xavi himself. "You're still breaking records," said Suarez. "I think this one says a lot about you as a player and what you represent for Barcelona." "We think you're extraordinary, something from another planet," said Neymar. Koeman played Frenkie de Jong again in the centre of a back three but he was replaced in the second half by Ronald Araujo, whose return from injury should also be a major boost to Barca during the run-in. Messi rose to the occasion in the 13th minute. He darted back to receive a pass from Busquets and flicked his first touch around the sliding Jorge Pulido. The ball was still spinning when he tapped it forward and whipped a shot that flew off the crossbar and in. Barcelona were dominant and Jordi Alba thrashed a shot against the crossbar before Griezmann made it two, played into space by Pedri and driving another thundering effort into the same corner Messi had picked out. De Jong poked a cross onto bar and Huesca were given hope at the end of the half when a scintillating counter-attack was rewarded with a mysterious penalty, Mir failing to connect with Ferreiro's cross but given a spot-kick anyway, seemingly for a late challenge from Marc-Andre ter Stegen. Mir made no mistake. Yet Barca gave themselves breathing space when Mingueza headed in his first Barcelona goal from a cross by Messi, who had the last word, cutting in from the right and firing into the bottom corner for his 661st.

Messi celebrates levelling Xavi record with double against Huesca

Zinedine Zidane opened the door to Cristiano Ronaldo returning to Real Madrid on Monday, admitting a comeback is "possible" for the striker.

Asked by Sky Italia if there is any truth to rumours that Ronaldo could rejoin Madrid, Zidane said: "It's possible, it's possible."

"We know Cristiano," Zidane added. "We know the person he is and everything he's done at Real Madrid. But now he's a Juventus player and you have to have respect both him and the club."

Asked if he would like to coach Ronaldo again, Zidane said: "I did what I had to do with Cristiano. Let's see what will happen in the future."

Reports in Spain have suggested Ronaldo is keen on returning to Real Madrid, where he enjoyed a hugely successful nine years before leaving in 2018 for 100 million euros.

The 36-year-old increased speculation last week with a cryptic post on social media, in which he wrote: "It's true the past belongs in museums (I should say!) but fortunately, football has memory... and so do I!"

Ronaldo's time at Juventus has not been as successful as was hoped. The team sit third in Serie A while defeat by Porto last week meant they went out in the Champions League last 16 for a second consecutive year.

Zinedine Zidane opened the door to Cristiano Ronaldo returning to Real Madrid on Monday, admitting a comeback is "possible" for the striker. Asked by Sky Italia if there is any truth to rumours that Ronaldo could rejoin Madrid, Zidane said: "It's possible, it's possible.

Zinedine Zidane opened the door to Cristiano Ronaldo returning to Real Madrid on Monday, admitting a comeback is "possible" for the striker. Asked by Sky Italia if there is any truth to rumours that Ronaldo could rejoin Madrid, Zidane said: "It's possible, it's possible." "We know Cristiano," Zidane added. "We know the person he is and everything he's done at Real Madrid. But now he's a Juventus player and you have to have respect both him and the club." Asked if he would like to coach Ronaldo again, Zidane said: "I did what I had to do with Cristiano. Let's see what will happen in the future." Reports in Spain have suggested Ronaldo is keen on returning to Real Madrid, where he enjoyed a hugely successful nine years before leaving in 2018 for 100 million euros. The 36-year-old increased speculation last week with a cryptic post on social media, in which he wrote: "It's true the past belongs in museums (I should say!) but fortunately, football has memory... and so do I!" Ronaldo's time at Juventus has not been as successful as was hoped. The team sit third in Serie A while defeat by Porto last week meant they went out in the Champions League last 16 for a second consecutive year.

Zidane says Ronaldo return to Real Madrid 'possible'

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