Pep Guardiola says his Manchester City squad are "on fire" in training as they look to get back to winning ways against Southampton on Wednesday.

The Premier League leaders' record 21-game winning streak in all competitions was ended by Manchester United in Sunday's derby at the Etihad Stadium.

Asked on Tuesday about the mood in the camp since the weekend, the City manager said his players were determined to return to winning ways.

"A mix of disappointment and sadness but, at the same time, the second day a bit better and today completely on fire to try to do a good game tomorrow," he said.

"It's a normal process when you lose the games. The reaction is common."

City, seeking to win their third Premier League title in four seasons, are 11 points clear of United with 10 games to go but Guardiola said there was still work to do.

"When the option is open everything can happen in football," he said. "Nobody thought we could win 21 in a row. Anything can happen. United can do it.

"We have 10 games left and we have to win six or seven games to be champions mathematically. We're going to try to win the first one tomorrow."

Guardiola routinely makes changes and Phil Foden and Sergio Aguero could be in contention for starting roles at the Etihad on Wednesday.

He said: "Maybe, I will decide tomorrow. I have an idea in general of the guys who will play but I have a few doubts."

Asked if these were injury doubts, Guardiola said: "No, everybody is OK."

Pep Guardiola says his Manchester City squad are "on fire" in training as they look to get back to winning ways against Southampton on Wednesday. The Premier League leaders' record 21-game winning streak in all competitions was ended by Manchester United in Sunday's derby at the Etihad Stadium.

Pep Guardiola says his Manchester City squad are "on fire" in training as they look to get back to winning ways against Southampton on Wednesday. The Premier League leaders' record 21-game winning streak in all competitions was ended by Manchester United in Sunday's derby at the Etihad Stadium. Asked on Tuesday about the mood in the camp since the weekend, the City manager said his players were determined to return to winning ways. "A mix of disappointment and sadness but, at the same time, the second day a bit better and today completely on fire to try to do a good game tomorrow," he said. "It's a normal process when you lose the games. The reaction is common." City, seeking to win their third Premier League title in four seasons, are 11 points clear of United with 10 games to go but Guardiola said there was still work to do. "When the option is open everything can happen in football," he said. "Nobody thought we could win 21 in a row. Anything can happen. United can do it. "We have 10 games left and we have to win six or seven games to be champions mathematically. We're going to try to win the first one tomorrow." Guardiola routinely makes changes and Phil Foden and Sergio Aguero could be in contention for starting roles at the Etihad on Wednesday. He said: "Maybe, I will decide tomorrow. I have an idea in general of the guys who will play but I have a few doubts." Asked if these were injury doubts, Guardiola said: "No, everybody is OK."

Man City 'on fire' in training after derby defeat, says Guardiola

In an exclusive interview with WION, Mumbai City FC striker and former Premier League player, Adam le Fondre, talked about a range of things: from experience in the Indian Super League (ISL), mental wellbeing inside bio-secure bubble, comparison of ISL with other football leagues, the impact of City Football Group (CFG), Sergio Lobera and more.

Exclusive: Mumbai City FC's Adam le Fondre on ISL, impact of CFG on Indian football and more!

Young Indian opener Shubman Gill had an underwhelming home Test series against England where he managed just a single half-century in four matches. While Gill had a superb series against Australia, England bowlers troubled the youngsters. However, former Indian cricketer Deep Dasgupta is unfazed&nbsp;by Gill's dip in form.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Dasgupta has backed Gill to figure out what areas the England bowlers targeted him while adding a youngster has to make adjustments to counter certain kinds of deliveries in international cricket.&nbsp;

The former Indian&nbsp;glovesman&nbsp;backed Gill to find his form back ahead of the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship final, scheduled to be played at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton from June 18-22.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-turned-to-rahul-dravid-and-asked-sam-billings-recalls-watching-rishabh-pant-for-first-time-369165" hreflang="en">'I turned to Rahul Dravid and asked...' Sam Billings recalls watching Rishabh Pant for first time</a>

"I think Shubman Gill will figure it out. In Australia, in the first series, he started getting out to Pat Cummins against away-going deliveries. He started coming across to counter the swing. In the England series, the English seamers bowled in-swing and he has been in trouble, facing inswingers. He has got out LBW, bowled to the balls coming in. As a youngster, you have made adjustments to counter certain kinds of deliveries. Those adjustments have worked against you in a different series," Dasgupta said in a Q&amp;A session on Sports Today.&nbsp;

"These are all part of the learning curve for someone as young as Shubman Gill. I am sure he has learnt his lessons. I am sure he will be back, scoring runs at the WTC final. He should be ready. There is a lot of cricket he will play before the&nbsp;WTC,&nbsp;he will play the IPL and hopefully score runs in the IPL” he added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-venues-could-host-icc-t20-world-cup-matches-report-369147" hreflang="en">IPL 2021 venues could host ICC T20 World Cup matches: Report</a>

"I am sure he will be back. These are part of a cricketer's life, ups and downs. He should be fine, he will learn from his mistakes,” concluded the 43-year-old cricketer-turned-commentator.&nbsp;

While there are no more Test matches before the WTC final, Gill will look to score runs in plenty during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 where he will be in action for Kolkata Knight Riders.&nbsp;

Young Indian opener Shubman Gill had an underwhelming home Test series against England where he managed just a single half-century in four matches. While Gill had a superb series against Australia, England bowlers troubled the youngsters.

Young Indian opener Shubman Gill had an underwhelming home Test series against England where he managed just a single half-century in four matches. While Gill had a superb series against Australia, England bowlers troubled the youngsters. However, former Indian cricketer Deep Dasgupta is unfazed by Gill's dip in form. Dasgupta has backed Gill to figure out what areas the England bowlers targeted him while adding a youngster has to make adjustments to counter certain kinds of deliveries in international cricket. The former Indian glovesman backed Gill to find his form back ahead of the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship final, scheduled to be played at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton from June 18-22. ALSO READ: 'I turned to Rahul Dravid and asked...' Sam Billings recalls watching Rishabh Pant for first time "I think Shubman Gill will figure it out. In Australia, in the first series, he started getting out to Pat Cummins against away-going deliveries. He started coming across to counter the swing. In the England series, the English seamers bowled in-swing and he has been in trouble, facing inswingers. He has got out LBW, bowled to the balls coming in. As a youngster, you have made adjustments to counter certain kinds of deliveries. Those adjustments have worked against you in a different series," Dasgupta said in a Q&A session on Sports Today. "These are all part of the learning curve for someone as young as Shubman Gill. I am sure he has learnt his lessons. I am sure he will be back, scoring runs at the WTC final. He should be ready. There is a lot of cricket he will play before the WTC, he will play the IPL and hopefully score runs in the IPL” he added. ALSO READ: IPL 2021 venues could host ICC T20 World Cup matches: Report "I am sure he will be back. These are part of a cricketer's life, ups and downs. He should be fine, he will learn from his mistakes,” concluded the 43-year-old cricketer-turned-commentator. While there are no more Test matches before the WTC final, Gill will look to score runs in plenty during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 where he will be in action for Kolkata Knight Riders.

He will learn from mistakes: Deep Dasgupta backs Shubman Gill to comeback strong

Australia&nbsp;head coach Justin Langer has expressed his disappointment over the slow-over rate against India in the Boxing Day Test, which ultimately cost the Aussies a spot in the final of the ICC World Test Championship.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Four points were docked from Australia's points tally in the WTC after Tim Paine's side were two overs short of the required rate of 15 overs per hour.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The four-point deduction meant that Australia ended up third in the ICC World Test Championship table with 69.2 percentage points while India finished first with 72 percentage points and New Zealand finishing second with 70 percentage points.&nbsp;

Langer said that Australia's team manager Gavin Dovey was on leave and hence, the team was unaware of the slow-over rate in the match.&nbsp;

"This might be the silliest thing I've ever said, but our manager Gavin Dovey ... he'd been away, he'd gone home for Christmas to be with his family," Langer told SEN.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"It wasn't until after the game that we&nbsp;realised&nbsp;our over rate was down. Now, that's really slack on our behalf.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-turned-to-rahul-dravid-and-asked-sam-billings-recalls-watching-rishabh-pant-for-first-time-369165" hreflang="en">'I turned to Rahul Dravid and asked...' Sam Billings recalls watching Rishabh Pant for first time</a>

"I remember we were in the team room afterwards and I spoke to&nbsp;Painey&nbsp;(skipper Tim Paine) and Dene Hills, our analyst, about it. I was a bit grumpy about it and I thought 'imagine if this cost us the World Test Championship.&nbsp;

"And I mentioned it to the players afterwards that two overs down could cost us the World Test Championship. And so, we have to get better at that and make sure it doesn't happen in Sydney and Brisbane.&nbsp;

"It was relevant at the time and it certainly became incredibly significant over the weekend."&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-venues-could-host-icc-t20-world-cup-matches-report-369147" hreflang="en">IPL 2021 venues could host ICC T20 World Cup matches: Report</a>

Langer is of the view that Australia should be more accountable and take responsibility for the crucial slow-over rate breach at the MCG as it was something that was within their control.&nbsp;

"How often do you get docked points in Test cricket these days? Rarely," he said.&nbsp;

"And we had that in our control, that's an attitudinal thing.&nbsp;

"At the time, we probably thought it's not that big a deal the players get fined but that cost us the World Test Championship (Final) after what had been two really good years for Australian cricket where we were ranked No.1 again.&nbsp;

"It's very disappointing, but the lesson is the things that we can control, we have to control. And we can't relax for a second in Test cricket," Langer added.&nbsp;

The ICC rules state that teams are docked two points and fined 20 per cent of their match fee for every over they stay behind the rate. Australia&nbsp;were&nbsp;docked four points and fined 40 per cent of their match fee as they were behind by two overs.&nbsp;

Australia head coach Justin Langer has expressed his disappointment over the slow-over rate against India in the Boxing Day Test, which ultimately cost the Aussies a spot in the final of the ICC World Test Championship.

Australia head coach Justin Langer has expressed his disappointment over the slow-over rate against India in the Boxing Day Test, which ultimately cost the Aussies a spot in the final of the ICC World Test Championship. Four points were docked from Australia's points tally in the WTC after Tim Paine's side were two overs short of the required rate of 15 overs per hour. The four-point deduction meant that Australia ended up third in the ICC World Test Championship table with 69.2 percentage points while India finished first with 72 percentage points and New Zealand finishing second with 70 percentage points. Langer said that Australia's team manager Gavin Dovey was on leave and hence, the team was unaware of the slow-over rate in the match. "This might be the silliest thing I've ever said, but our manager Gavin Dovey ... he'd been away, he'd gone home for Christmas to be with his family," Langer told SEN. "It wasn't until after the game that we realised our over rate was down. Now, that's really slack on our behalf. ALSO READ: 'I turned to Rahul Dravid and asked...' Sam Billings recalls watching Rishabh Pant for first time "I remember we were in the team room afterwards and I spoke to Painey (skipper Tim Paine) and Dene Hills, our analyst, about it. I was a bit grumpy about it and I thought 'imagine if this cost us the World Test Championship. "And I mentioned it to the players afterwards that two overs down could cost us the World Test Championship. And so, we have to get better at that and make sure it doesn't happen in Sydney and Brisbane. "It was relevant at the time and it certainly became incredibly significant over the weekend." ALSO READ: IPL 2021 venues could host ICC T20 World Cup matches: Report Langer is of the view that Australia should be more accountable and take responsibility for the crucial slow-over rate breach at the MCG as it was something that was within their control. "How often do you get docked points in Test cricket these days? Rarely," he said. "And we had that in our control, that's an attitudinal thing. "At the time, we probably thought it's not that big a deal the players get fined but that cost us the World Test Championship (Final) after what had been two really good years for Australian cricket where we were ranked No.1 again. "It's very disappointing, but the lesson is the things that we can control, we have to control. And we can't relax for a second in Test cricket," Langer added. The ICC rules state that teams are docked two points and fined 20 per cent of their match fee for every over they stay behind the rate. Australia were docked four points and fined 40 per cent of their match fee as they were behind by two overs.

'Very disappointing': Justin Langer rues missing WTC final berth due to major error against India

England wicketkeeper-batsman Sam Billings has recalled the first time he saw Rishabh Pant in the nets&nbsp;during his time with Delhi Daredevils – now Delhi Capitals. Billings spent two seasons with the Delhi franchise before being signed up by Chennai Super Kings.&nbsp;

During the auction of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, Billings was roped in by Delhi Capitals for his base price of INR 2 crore.&nbsp;Ahead of IPL 2021, the England international recalled when he spotted Pant at the nets.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Billings said after watching Pant smacking the likes of Kagiso&nbsp;Rabada, Chris Morris and Nathan Coulter-Nile at the nets, he turned straight to Rahul Dravid, who was the mentor of the franchise at that time,&nbsp;to ask about the youngster while terming the southpaw as "unbelievable”.&nbsp;&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ind-vs-eng-rishabh-pants-magnificent-century-against-jimmy-anderson-and-co-368226" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG: Rishabh Pant's magnificent century against Jimmy Anderson and Co.</a>

“With Pant, I played with him for 2 years when I was in Delhi. I turned to Rahul Dravid and asked 'who is this kid?' He was smacking Nathan Coulter-Nile, Chris Morris,&nbsp;Rabada&nbsp;everywhere in the open net. I was just thinking 'this is unbelievable!' and that year he lit up,” Billings told&nbsp;ESPNCricinfo.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Billings will be back with Delhi Capitals and the&nbsp;glovesman&nbsp;is looking forward to playing with Pant again.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“It's been great to see him evolve as a cricketer and to be in the same team as him again would be great,”&nbsp;Billings said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-venues-could-host-icc-t20-world-cup-matches-report-369147" hreflang="en">IPL 2021 venues could host ICC T20 World Cup matches: Report</a>

Meanwhile, Pant has seen a massive turnaround in his career. After warming the Team India bench for around a year, across formats, and finding him down in the pecking order, the swashbuckling southpaw&nbsp;played match-winning knocks against Australia and England.&nbsp;

While India defeated Australia 2-1 in the four-Test series, the Virat Kohli-led side hammered England 3-1 in the home series to top the ICC World Test Championship standings.&nbsp;

India will lock horns with New Zealand in the final of ICC WTC, scheduled to be played from June 18-22 at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton.&nbsp;&nbsp;

England wicketkeeper-batsman Sam Billings has recalled the first time he saw Rishabh Pant in the nets during his time with Delhi Daredevils – now Delhi Capitals.

England wicketkeeper-batsman Sam Billings has recalled the first time he saw Rishabh Pant in the nets during his time with Delhi Daredevils – now Delhi Capitals. Billings spent two seasons with the Delhi franchise before being signed up by Chennai Super Kings. During the auction of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, Billings was roped in by Delhi Capitals for his base price of INR 2 crore. Ahead of IPL 2021, the England international recalled when he spotted Pant at the nets. Billings said after watching Pant smacking the likes of Kagiso Rabada, Chris Morris and Nathan Coulter-Nile at the nets, he turned straight to Rahul Dravid, who was the mentor of the franchise at that time, to ask about the youngster while terming the southpaw as "unbelievable”. IN PICS | IND vs ENG: Rishabh Pant's magnificent century against Jimmy Anderson and Co. “With Pant, I played with him for 2 years when I was in Delhi. I turned to Rahul Dravid and asked 'who is this kid?' He was smacking Nathan Coulter-Nile, Chris Morris, Rabada everywhere in the open net. I was just thinking 'this is unbelievable!' and that year he lit up,” Billings told ESPNCricinfo. Billings will be back with Delhi Capitals and the glovesman is looking forward to playing with Pant again. “It's been great to see him evolve as a cricketer and to be in the same team as him again would be great,” Billings said. ALSO READ: IPL 2021 venues could host ICC T20 World Cup matches: Report Meanwhile, Pant has seen a massive turnaround in his career. After warming the Team India bench for around a year, across formats, and finding him down in the pecking order, the swashbuckling southpaw played match-winning knocks against Australia and England. While India defeated Australia 2-1 in the four-Test series, the Virat Kohli-led side hammered England 3-1 in the home series to top the ICC World Test Championship standings. India will lock horns with New Zealand in the final of ICC WTC, scheduled to be played from June 18-22 at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton.

'I turned to Rahul Dravid and asked...' Sam Billings recalls watching Rishabh Pant for first time

The venues of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 could end up hosting the ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled to be played in India in October-November.&nbsp;&nbsp;

With cities of Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata gearing up to host the much-anticipated IPL 2021, a report in 'The New Indian Express’ has said that the six venues&nbsp;are likely to host ICC's marquee event later in the year.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The report adds that the BCCI wanted eight venues for T20 World Cup but with COVID-19 complications still in the country, the Indian board is likely to limit the venues to six.&nbsp;

TRENDING:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-jhulan-goswamis-spirit-of-cricket-moment-with-south-africas-nadine-de-klerk-369110" hreflang="en">WATCH: Jhulan Goswami's 'Spirit of Cricket' moment with South Africa's Nadine de Klerk</a>

Generally, venues are revealed around six months ahead of an ICC event but given the COVID-19 pandemic, the venues for the 2021 edition of the T20 World Cup are likely to be announced late.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Both IPL and T20 World Cup are multi-team tournaments and offer logistical challenges for&nbsp;organisers. While IPL is&nbsp;an&nbsp;eight-team tournament, T20 World Cup will have as many as 16 teams.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Initially, the BCCI had the likes of&nbsp;Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Chennai, Delhi, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Mohali and&nbsp;Dharamsala.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-schedule-team-wise-full-fixture-list-date-time-and-venues-368637" hreflang="en">IPL 2021 Schedule: Team-wise full fixture list, date, time and venues</a>

“Moving from one city to the other for one match will come with a huge risk. If the venue count is down, it will help us in delivering a smooth tournament. If need be, a similar schedule like IPL where matches are restricted to not more than two cities at a given point of time will be considered. We have to be as flexible as possible,” a BCCI official told the&nbsp;daily.&nbsp;

WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/worlds-largest-cricket-stadium-in-ahmedabad-hosts-india-vs-england-pink-ball-test-365985" hreflang="en">World's largest cricket stadium in Ahmedabad</a>

The BCCI is looking to host the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup in Chennai and Bengaluru with the final likely to be hosted by Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;

The venues of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 could end up hosting the ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled to be played in India in October-November. With cities of Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata gearing up to host the much-anticipated IPL 2021, a report in 'The New Indian Express’ has said that the six venues are likely to host ICC's marquee event later in the year.

The venues of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 could end up hosting the ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled to be played in India in October-November. With cities of Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata gearing up to host the much-anticipated IPL 2021, a report in 'The New Indian Express’ has said that the six venues are likely to host ICC's marquee event later in the year. The report adds that the BCCI wanted eight venues for T20 World Cup but with COVID-19 complications still in the country, the Indian board is likely to limit the venues to six. TRENDING: WATCH: Jhulan Goswami's 'Spirit of Cricket' moment with South Africa's Nadine de Klerk Generally, venues are revealed around six months ahead of an ICC event but given the COVID-19 pandemic, the venues for the 2021 edition of the T20 World Cup are likely to be announced late. Both IPL and T20 World Cup are multi-team tournaments and offer logistical challenges for organisers. While IPL is an eight-team tournament, T20 World Cup will have as many as 16 teams. Initially, the BCCI had the likes of Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Chennai, Delhi, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Mohali and Dharamsala. ALSO READ: IPL 2021 Schedule: Team-wise full fixture list, date, time and venues “Moving from one city to the other for one match will come with a huge risk. If the venue count is down, it will help us in delivering a smooth tournament. If need be, a similar schedule like IPL where matches are restricted to not more than two cities at a given point of time will be considered. We have to be as flexible as possible,” a BCCI official told the daily. WATCH: World's largest cricket stadium in Ahmedabad The BCCI is looking to host the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup in Chennai and Bengaluru with the final likely to be hosted by Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

IPL 2021 venues could host ICC T20 World Cup matches: Report

Germany's World Cup-winning head coach Joachim Loew will step down after the European championships this July, the German FA confirmed Tuesday.

In a statement, Loew said he was "full of pride and enormous gratitude" after nearly 15 years as national coach and that he was "motivated" for his swansong at the European championships from June 11-July 11.

The 61-year-old has been in charge of Germany since 2006 and lifted the 2014 World Cup in Brazil at the height of his tenure.

However, he has been heavily criticised since Germany exited the group stages at the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

Germany's World Cup-winning head coach Joachim Loew will step down after the European championships this July, the German FA confirmed Tuesday. In a statement, Loew said he was "full of pride and enormous gratitude" after nearly 15 years as national coach and that he was "motivated" for his swansong at the European championships from June 11-July 11.

Germany's World Cup-winning head coach Joachim Loew will step down after the European championships this July, the German FA confirmed Tuesday. In a statement, Loew said he was "full of pride and enormous gratitude" after nearly 15 years as national coach and that he was "motivated" for his swansong at the European championships from June 11-July 11. The 61-year-old has been in charge of Germany since 2006 and lifted the 2014 World Cup in Brazil at the height of his tenure. However, he has been heavily criticised since Germany exited the group stages at the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

Germany coach Loew to step down after this year's Euro

Batswoman Smriti&nbsp;Mandhana&nbsp;on Tuesday guided India Women to a thumping nine-wicket win against South Africa Women with a power-packed&nbsp;80-run unbeaten knock off 64 deliveries laced with 10 boundaries and three sixes&nbsp;in Lucknow. With another WODI half-century to her name,&nbsp;Mandhana&nbsp;became the first player (women or men) to score 50+ runs in ten consecutive ODI chases.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Interestingly,&nbsp;Mandhana&nbsp;has registered 50+ runs in every WODI chases starting from 2018&nbsp;where the swashbuckling batswoman smashed 67 runs off 53 deliveries against Australia Woman in&nbsp;Vadodara.&nbsp;

Since then,&nbsp;Mandhana&nbsp;has scored 52, 86, 53*, 73*, 105, 90*, 63, 74 and 80* to become the first player ever to&nbsp;register the iconic record to her name.&nbsp;&nbsp;

After a disappointing start to the WODI series against South Africa, where the southpaw&nbsp;departed&nbsp;for 14 off 20&nbsp;as India went on to lose&nbsp;the first match by 8 wickets. However, she was back at her best in the second match as she hammered 80 off 64&nbsp;to take India to a thumping win.&nbsp;&nbsp;

TRENDING:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-jhulan-goswamis-spirit-of-cricket-moment-with-south-africas-nadine-de-klerk-369110" hreflang="en">WATCH: Jhulan Goswami's 'Spirit of Cricket' moment with South Africa's Nadine de Klerk</a>

South Africa Women, batting first, were restricted to 157 runs in 41 overs as veteran pacer&nbsp;Jhulan&nbsp;Goswami wreaked havoc with the ball by picking four wickets. Rajeshwari Gayakwad ended up with three scalps while Mansi Joshi bagged two wickets.&nbsp;&nbsp;

For the visitors, Lada Goodall scored 49 while skipper Sune Luss managed 36.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India Women lost opener Jemimah Rodrigues for 9 but&nbsp;Mandhana&nbsp;along with Punam Raut (62* off 89) took the hosts over the winning line.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dad-will-definitely-washington-sundar-reacts-to-wasim-jaffers-tweet-on-ishant-siraj-369093" hreflang="en">'Dad will definitely...': Washington Sundar reacts to Wasim Jaffer's tweet on Ishant, Siraj</a>

Goswami revealed that there wasn't much discussion about the match after India's defeat to South Africa in the first WODI as the veteran said that they wanted to focus on the basics.&nbsp;

“We didn't discuss the defeat much. We wanted to focus on the basics and get back to shape as quickly as possible. We worked on the basics and it showed on the field,” said&nbsp;Jhulan&nbsp;Goswami&nbsp;

Batswoman Smriti Mandhana on Tuesday guided India Women to a thumping nine-wicket win against South Africa Women with a power-packed 80-run unbeaten knock off 64 deliveries laced with 10 boundaries and three sixes in Lucknow.

Batswoman Smriti Mandhana on Tuesday guided India Women to a thumping nine-wicket win against South Africa Women with a power-packed 80-run unbeaten knock off 64 deliveries laced with 10 boundaries and three sixes in Lucknow. With another WODI half-century to her name, Mandhana became the first player (women or men) to score 50+ runs in ten consecutive ODI chases. Interestingly, Mandhana has registered 50+ runs in every WODI chases starting from 2018 where the swashbuckling batswoman smashed 67 runs off 53 deliveries against Australia Woman in Vadodara. Since then, Mandhana has scored 52, 86, 53*, 73*, 105, 90*, 63, 74 and 80* to become the first player ever to register the iconic record to her name. After a disappointing start to the WODI series against South Africa, where the southpaw departed for 14 off 20 as India went on to lose the first match by 8 wickets. However, she was back at her best in the second match as she hammered 80 off 64 to take India to a thumping win. TRENDING: WATCH: Jhulan Goswami's 'Spirit of Cricket' moment with South Africa's Nadine de Klerk South Africa Women, batting first, were restricted to 157 runs in 41 overs as veteran pacer Jhulan Goswami wreaked havoc with the ball by picking four wickets. Rajeshwari Gayakwad ended up with three scalps while Mansi Joshi bagged two wickets. For the visitors, Lada Goodall scored 49 while skipper Sune Luss managed 36. India Women lost opener Jemimah Rodrigues for 9 but Mandhana along with Punam Raut (62* off 89) took the hosts over the winning line. ALSO READ: 'Dad will definitely...': Washington Sundar reacts to Wasim Jaffer's tweet on Ishant, Siraj Goswami revealed that there wasn't much discussion about the match after India's defeat to South Africa in the first WODI as the veteran said that they wanted to focus on the basics. “We didn't discuss the defeat much. We wanted to focus on the basics and get back to shape as quickly as possible. We worked on the basics and it showed on the field,” said Jhulan Goswami

Smriti Mandhana becomes first-ever player to score 50+ in 10 consecutive ODI chases

Ace England all-rounder Ben Stokes has revealed that he along with some of his teammates suffered sudden weight loss during the fourth Test against India in Ahmedabad after stomach bug hit the visitors just before the match.&nbsp;

England suffered a crushing defeat by an innings and 25 runs in the final Test to concede the series 1-3. Stokes further revealed that he lost 5 kgs in a week while Dom Sibley lost four and James Anderson lost 3 among others.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Players are totally committed to England and I think that was&nbsp;emphasised&nbsp;last week when a few of us went down with illness that made operating in 41-degree heat particularly taxing," Stokes told UK's 'Daily Mirror'.&nbsp;

"I lost 5kg in a week, Dom Sibley 4kg and Jimmy Anderson 3kg among others. Jack Leach was ducking off the field in between bowling spells and spending more time than is ideal in the toilet."&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravichandran-ashwin-tammy-beaumont-named-icc-player-of-the-month-for-february-369099" hreflang="en">Ravichandran Ashwin, Tammy Beaumont named ICC Player of the Month for February</a>

Powered by Rishabh Pant and Washington Sundar's knock of 101 and 96 respectively, India posted 365 runs in the first innings before dismissing England for 135 to win the match.&nbsp;

"This is in no way an excuse, because everyone was ready to play, and India and Rishabh Pant especially produced a terrific performance, but I take off my hat to the effort that was put in by players who gave everything they had to try and win for England," Stokes said.&nbsp;

The Joe Root-led outfit were subjected to widespread criticism following the thrashing in the Test series. Stokes is of the view that only the opinions of the captain, coaches and your team-mates should matter as they try to make the team&nbsp;and player as good&nbsp;as possible.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-forget-joe-root-scored-a-double-hundred-kevin-pietersen-defends-england-skipper-369053" hreflang="en">'Don’t forget, Joe Root scored a double hundred': Kevin Pietersen defends England skipper</a>

"Pundits have a job to do and that's fine. But their responsibility isn't to make us better players and a better team. That is our job and that is what we have to focus on," said Stokes.&nbsp;

"The opinions that really matter are those of your captain, your coaches and your team-mates who are trying to make the team and you as a player as good as you can be."&nbsp;

"For a lot of guys this was their first tour of India and it has been a steep learning curve, but that is part and parcel of being a cricketer at this level. The next test is how you react to those moments.&nbsp;I wouldn't want any player, especially a young lad like Ollie Pope, Zak Crawley or Dom Sibley, leaving this tour and thinking they are not good enough to be here. They most definitely are."&nbsp;

"I have been through times like this in my career and your confidence can take a knock from a tour like this ...you have to use the disappointment in the best way you can to motivate you to improve."&nbsp;

England and India will next lock horns in a five-T20I series starting from March 12 in Ahmedabad before playing a three-ODI series to conclude the&nbsp;gruelling&nbsp;tour of India.&nbsp;

Ace England all-rounder Ben Stokes has revealed that he along with some of his teammates suffered sudden weight loss during the fourth Test against India in Ahmedabad after stomach bug hit the visitors just before the match.

Ace England all-rounder Ben Stokes has revealed that he along with some of his teammates suffered sudden weight loss during the fourth Test against India in Ahmedabad after stomach bug hit the visitors just before the match. England suffered a crushing defeat by an innings and 25 runs in the final Test to concede the series 1-3. Stokes further revealed that he lost 5 kgs in a week while Dom Sibley lost four and James Anderson lost 3 among others. "Players are totally committed to England and I think that was emphasised last week when a few of us went down with illness that made operating in 41-degree heat particularly taxing," Stokes told UK's 'Daily Mirror'. "I lost 5kg in a week, Dom Sibley 4kg and Jimmy Anderson 3kg among others. Jack Leach was ducking off the field in between bowling spells and spending more time than is ideal in the toilet." ALSO READ: Ravichandran Ashwin, Tammy Beaumont named ICC Player of the Month for February Powered by Rishabh Pant and Washington Sundar's knock of 101 and 96 respectively, India posted 365 runs in the first innings before dismissing England for 135 to win the match. "This is in no way an excuse, because everyone was ready to play, and India and Rishabh Pant especially produced a terrific performance, but I take off my hat to the effort that was put in by players who gave everything they had to try and win for England," Stokes said. The Joe Root-led outfit were subjected to widespread criticism following the thrashing in the Test series. Stokes is of the view that only the opinions of the captain, coaches and your team-mates should matter as they try to make the team and player as good as possible. ALSO READ: 'Don’t forget, Joe Root scored a double hundred': Kevin Pietersen defends England skipper "Pundits have a job to do and that's fine. But their responsibility isn't to make us better players and a better team. That is our job and that is what we have to focus on," said Stokes. "The opinions that really matter are those of your captain, your coaches and your team-mates who are trying to make the team and you as a player as good as you can be." "For a lot of guys this was their first tour of India and it has been a steep learning curve, but that is part and parcel of being a cricketer at this level. The next test is how you react to those moments. I wouldn't want any player, especially a young lad like Ollie Pope, Zak Crawley or Dom Sibley, leaving this tour and thinking they are not good enough to be here. They most definitely are." "I have been through times like this in my career and your confidence can take a knock from a tour like this ...you have to use the disappointment in the best way you can to motivate you to improve." England and India will next lock horns in a five-T20I series starting from March 12 in Ahmedabad before playing a three-ODI series to conclude the gruelling tour of India.

I lost 5 kg in a week, James Anderson lost 3 kg: Ben Stokes reveals 'dramatic weight loss' during India Tests

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday announced the winners of the ICC Player of the Month Awards for February which recognise and celebrate the best performances from both male and female cricketers across all forms of international cricket each month.

India’s&nbsp;Ravichandran Ashwin&nbsp;won the&nbsp;ICC Men’s Player of the Month for February 2021, for his impressive performance against England as part of India’s successful Test series victory. In the 3 Tests he played, he scored a 106 in the second innings of India’s second Test victory over England at Chennai and took his 400th Test wicket in the third Test victory at Ahmedabad. Scoring a total of 176 runs across these games and taking 24 wickets, Ashwin was the unanimous choice to win in the men’s category for February and garnered the most votes in the fan vote.

England’s&nbsp;Tammy Beaumont&nbsp;played 3 ODIs in February against New Zealand where she passed fifty in each of these, totalling 231 runs. Beaumont was overwhelmingly named the&nbsp;ICC Women’s Player of the Month for February 2021.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sourav-ganguly-hails-rishabh-pant-as-game-changer-like-ms-dhoni-yuvraj-singh-369020" hreflang="en">Sourav Ganguly hails Rishabh Pant as game-changer like MS Dhoni, Yuvraj Singh</a>

Commenting on Ashwin’s performance in February,&nbsp;Ian Bishop representing the ICC Voting Academy&nbsp;said:&nbsp;“Ashwin’s consistent wicket-taking, even in helpful conditions have helped to put his team ahead in a very important series. His century in the second Test was as critical as it came when England were trying to claw their way back into the match. That knock ensured that India shut the door on the opposition.”

Commenting on Beaumont’s performance in February,&nbsp;Ian Bishop&nbsp;added:&nbsp;“Three half centuries of which two were in helping her team win the match was outstanding from Beaumont. Particular emphasis on the fact that two of the knocks were unbeaten innings, and coming inevitably, on two occasions whilst having lost her opening partner early on, she had to see things through for her team, which was incredible.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dad-will-definitely-washington-sundar-reacts-to-wasim-jaffers-tweet-369093" hreflang="en">'Dad will definitely...': Washington Sundar reacts to Wasim Jaffer's tweet</a>

Fans can continue to vote every month for their favourite male and female cricketers across all formats of international cricket as part of the ICC Player of the Month initiative by registering their vote on the ICC&nbsp;website.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday announced the winners of the ICC Player of the Month Awards for February which recognise and celebrate the best performances from both male and female cricketers across all forms of international cricket each month.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday announced the winners of the ICC Player of the Month Awards for February which recognise and celebrate the best performances from both male and female cricketers across all forms of international cricket each month. India’s Ravichandran Ashwin won the ICC Men’s Player of the Month for February 2021, for his impressive performance against England as part of India’s successful Test series victory. In the 3 Tests he played, he scored a 106 in the second innings of India’s second Test victory over England at Chennai and took his 400th Test wicket in the third Test victory at Ahmedabad. Scoring a total of 176 runs across these games and taking 24 wickets, Ashwin was the unanimous choice to win in the men’s category for February and garnered the most votes in the fan vote. England’s Tammy Beaumont played 3 ODIs in February against New Zealand where she passed fifty in each of these, totalling 231 runs. Beaumont was overwhelmingly named the ICC Women’s Player of the Month for February 2021. ALSO READ: Sourav Ganguly hails Rishabh Pant as game-changer like MS Dhoni, Yuvraj Singh Commenting on Ashwin’s performance in February, Ian Bishop representing the ICC Voting Academy said: “Ashwin’s consistent wicket-taking, even in helpful conditions have helped to put his team ahead in a very important series. His century in the second Test was as critical as it came when England were trying to claw their way back into the match. That knock ensured that India shut the door on the opposition.” Commenting on Beaumont’s performance in February, Ian Bishop added: “Three half centuries of which two were in helping her team win the match was outstanding from Beaumont. Particular emphasis on the fact that two of the knocks were unbeaten innings, and coming inevitably, on two occasions whilst having lost her opening partner early on, she had to see things through for her team, which was incredible.” ALSO READ: 'Dad will definitely...': Washington Sundar reacts to Wasim Jaffer's tweet Fans can continue to vote every month for their favourite male and female cricketers across all formats of international cricket as part of the ICC Player of the Month initiative by registering their vote on the ICC website.

Ravichandran Ashwin, Tammy Beaumont named ICC Player of the Month for February

Milan Skriniar scored the only goal as Inter Milan moved back six points clear in Serie A with a 1-0 win over Atalanta on Monday.

Inter extended their winning streak to seven league games as they push for a first title since 2010.

Antonio Conte's side are ahead of second-placed AC Milan, who beat Hellas Verona 2-0 on Sunday, with champions Juventus 10 points off top spot, with a game in hand, after a 3-1 win over Lazio.

Skriniar found a way through after 54 minutes sending in off fellow defender Alessandro Bastoni after a corner resulted in a scramble on front of goal in the San Siro.

"Knowing that the closest direct pursuers had won it's inevitable that there was pressure, these are three important points," said Conte.

Atalanta are fifth, outside the Champions League berths, and 13 points off top spot with 12 games left to play this season.

"We put in a great performance and lost on a corner," lamented coach Gian Piero Gasperini whose side are one point off fourth-placed Roma.

"Against Inter and Juventus we always lack that little detail we don't yet have, but we are close."&nbsp;

In a clash between the two biggest scoring teams in Serie A the defenders decided the tie with Atalanta's Berat Djimsiti giving little space to the Inter attackers.

Romelu Lukaku and Lautaro Martinez lead the Inter attack, the best in the Italian top-flight with 63 goals.

Atalanta are second best with 60, with forward Duvan Zapata starting up front, being replaced by fellow Colombian Luis Muriel for the final 20 minutes.

Chances were few in the first half.

Atalanta goalkeeper Marco Sportiello used his head to clear for a corner off a Cristian Romero cross after quarter of an hour.

Inter goalkeeper Samir Handanovic denied a Zapata header six minutes before the break and Marcelo Brozovic was cleared off the line just after.

Josip Ilicic replaced Ruslan Malinovskyi after the break for Atalanta with Conte sending on Christian Eriksen in place of Arturo Vidal.

And the Dane's corner which resulted in the goal, Skriniar's third in the league this season.

Inter threated a second just after but Romero slid in to deny a Lukaku finish just before the hour.

"One goal but we missed sensational opportunities," said Conte.

"It was a very tactical match."

Atalanta broke their four-match winning run in Serie A as they remain in the running in the Champions League and the Italian Cup final.

Inter are without European commitments with nothing left to target but the league and are next at relegation-threatened Torino.

Atalanta play at home against promoted Spezia before their Champions League last 16, second leg visit to Real Madrid.

Milan Skriniar scored the only goal as Inter Milan moved back six points clear in Serie A with a 1-0 win over Atalanta on Monday. Inter extended their winning streak to seven league games as they push for a first title since 2010.

Milan Skriniar scored the only goal as Inter Milan moved back six points clear in Serie A with a 1-0 win over Atalanta on Monday. Inter extended their winning streak to seven league games as they push for a first title since 2010. Antonio Conte's side are ahead of second-placed AC Milan, who beat Hellas Verona 2-0 on Sunday, with champions Juventus 10 points off top spot, with a game in hand, after a 3-1 win over Lazio. Skriniar found a way through after 54 minutes sending in off fellow defender Alessandro Bastoni after a corner resulted in a scramble on front of goal in the San Siro. "Knowing that the closest direct pursuers had won it's inevitable that there was pressure, these are three important points," said Conte. Atalanta are fifth, outside the Champions League berths, and 13 points off top spot with 12 games left to play this season. "We put in a great performance and lost on a corner," lamented coach Gian Piero Gasperini whose side are one point off fourth-placed Roma. "Against Inter and Juventus we always lack that little detail we don't yet have, but we are close." In a clash between the two biggest scoring teams in Serie A the defenders decided the tie with Atalanta's Berat Djimsiti giving little space to the Inter attackers. Romelu Lukaku and Lautaro Martinez lead the Inter attack, the best in the Italian top-flight with 63 goals. Atalanta are second best with 60, with forward Duvan Zapata starting up front, being replaced by fellow Colombian Luis Muriel for the final 20 minutes. Chances were few in the first half. Atalanta goalkeeper Marco Sportiello used his head to clear for a corner off a Cristian Romero cross after quarter of an hour. Inter goalkeeper Samir Handanovic denied a Zapata header six minutes before the break and Marcelo Brozovic was cleared off the line just after. Josip Ilicic replaced Ruslan Malinovskyi after the break for Atalanta with Conte sending on Christian Eriksen in place of Arturo Vidal. And the Dane's corner which resulted in the goal, Skriniar's third in the league this season. Inter threated a second just after but Romero slid in to deny a Lukaku finish just before the hour. "One goal but we missed sensational opportunities," said Conte. "It was a very tactical match." Atalanta broke their four-match winning run in Serie A as they remain in the running in the Champions League and the Italian Cup final. Inter are without European commitments with nothing left to target but the league and are next at relegation-threatened Torino. Atalanta play at home against promoted Spezia before their Champions League last 16, second leg visit to Real Madrid.

Skriniar sends Inter back six points clear in Serie A

As Lionel Messi comes to Paris this week with Barcelona in the Champions League, the inevitable temptation is to think ahead to next season and wonder if the Argentine might be a regular fixture in the French capital.

That remains the nightmare scenario for Barcelona fans, even if their new president Joan Laporta announced following his election victory on Sunday that he was "convinced he wants to stay".

Barcelona, like Real Madrid, fear the threat to their status at the top of the European game posed by Qatar-owned PSG and Abu Dhabi-owned Manchester City.

On the evidence of the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie, PSG have bypassed Barca. Their 4-1 win at the Camp Nou means it would take a stunning turnaround in Wednesday's return to stop them reaching the quarter-finals.

A move to one of Spain's giants was long seen as the pinnacle for any player, but times have changed, as proven by Neymar's transfer to Paris for a world record 222 million euros ($264m at the time) in 2017.

PSG and City are probably the only likely destinations for Messi should he leave. But could a switch to Paris really happen?

<h2>- 'Reserved a seat just in case' -</h2>

"Great players like Messi will always be on PSG's list," insisted the French champions' sporting director Leonardo in a January interview with France Football magazine.

"We are sat at the big table with all those who are keeping a close eye on it. Well, we are not sat down yet, but we have reserved a seat just in case."

Neymar would be delighted to team up with the Argentine again. "It's what I most want," he told ESPN in December.

PSG would not need to pay a transfer fee, and Messi -- who turns 34 in June -- would be joining a club surely better placed in the short term to win the Champions League.

He would also be teaming up with a coach in Mauricio Pochettino who is a fellow Argentine.

Indeed, Pochettino was born in Murphy in the province of Santa Fe, just 150 kilometres from Messi's home city, Rosario. Both started playing at Newell's Old Boys.

"I have to be careful not to talk about players who are at other clubs," Pochettino said of Messi in an interview with AFP last week.

"In any case it is an easy answer. Great players can play for any team."

Yet Messi does not represent the future. Kylian Mbappe, scorer of a hat-trick in the first leg, does. He is 22, the age Messi was when he won his first Ballon d'Or.

<h2>- New contracts for Mbappe and Neymar? -</h2>

PSG's energy and finances need to be focused on the future of Mbappe and the 29-year-old Neymar.

Both are out of contract at the end of next season. Leonardo recently said a new deal for the Brazilian was "on the right track".

Meanwhile Mbappe has admitted he is still mulling over what to do next.

"I am very happy here. I have always been very happy," he declared recently. "But I want to think about what I want to do in the coming years, where I want to be."

According to documents released in 2018 by Football Leaks, Neymar's existing after-tax salary is 30 million euros ($35.8m) a year while Mbappe's was due to rise to 11 million euros this year. It is safe to assume neither will be taking a wage reduction to stay.

Meanwhile, in January El Mundo published details of Messi's current contract, which it said is worth up to 555 million euros over four years.

PSG are rich but are far from immune to the economic crisis hitting football due to the pandemic and also the collapse of France's domestic television deal.

The latest Deloitte Football Money League put their revenue last season at 540.6 million euros, a drop of almost 100 million on the previous season. According to L'Equipe, PSG expect to lose 204 million euros this season.

Money may have once proven no obstacle for PSG, but the current climate means signing Messi could be beyond even them.

A place in the quarter-finals of the Champions League, at Messi's expense, should not be.

As Lionel Messi comes to Paris this week with Barcelona in the Champions League, the inevitable temptation is to think ahead to next season and wonder if the Argentine might be a regular fixture in the French capital.

As Lionel Messi comes to Paris this week with Barcelona in the Champions League, the inevitable temptation is to think ahead to next season and wonder if the Argentine might be a regular fixture in the French capital. That remains the nightmare scenario for Barcelona fans, even if their new president Joan Laporta announced following his election victory on Sunday that he was "convinced he wants to stay". Barcelona, like Real Madrid, fear the threat to their status at the top of the European game posed by Qatar-owned PSG and Abu Dhabi-owned Manchester City. On the evidence of the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie, PSG have bypassed Barca. Their 4-1 win at the Camp Nou means it would take a stunning turnaround in Wednesday's return to stop them reaching the quarter-finals. A move to one of Spain's giants was long seen as the pinnacle for any player, but times have changed, as proven by Neymar's transfer to Paris for a world record 222 million euros ($264m at the time) in 2017. PSG and City are probably the only likely destinations for Messi should he leave. But could a switch to Paris really happen? - 'Reserved a seat just in case' - "Great players like Messi will always be on PSG's list," insisted the French champions' sporting director Leonardo in a January interview with France Football magazine. "We are sat at the big table with all those who are keeping a close eye on it. Well, we are not sat down yet, but we have reserved a seat just in case." Neymar would be delighted to team up with the Argentine again. "It's what I most want," he told ESPN in December. PSG would not need to pay a transfer fee, and Messi -- who turns 34 in June -- would be joining a club surely better placed in the short term to win the Champions League. He would also be teaming up with a coach in Mauricio Pochettino who is a fellow Argentine. Indeed, Pochettino was born in Murphy in the province of Santa Fe, just 150 kilometres from Messi's home city, Rosario. Both started playing at Newell's Old Boys. "I have to be careful not to talk about players who are at other clubs," Pochettino said of Messi in an interview with AFP last week. "In any case it is an easy answer. Great players can play for any team." Yet Messi does not represent the future. Kylian Mbappe, scorer of a hat-trick in the first leg, does. He is 22, the age Messi was when he won his first Ballon d'Or. - New contracts for Mbappe and Neymar? - PSG's energy and finances need to be focused on the future of Mbappe and the 29-year-old Neymar. Both are out of contract at the end of next season. Leonardo recently said a new deal for the Brazilian was "on the right track". Meanwhile Mbappe has admitted he is still mulling over what to do next. "I am very happy here. I have always been very happy," he declared recently. "But I want to think about what I want to do in the coming years, where I want to be." According to documents released in 2018 by Football Leaks, Neymar's existing after-tax salary is 30 million euros ($35.8m) a year while Mbappe's was due to rise to 11 million euros this year. It is safe to assume neither will be taking a wage reduction to stay. Meanwhile, in January El Mundo published details of Messi's current contract, which it said is worth up to 555 million euros over four years. PSG are rich but are far from immune to the economic crisis hitting football due to the pandemic and also the collapse of France's domestic television deal. The latest Deloitte Football Money League put their revenue last season at 540.6 million euros, a drop of almost 100 million on the previous season. According to L'Equipe, PSG expect to lose 204 million euros this season. Money may have once proven no obstacle for PSG, but the current climate means signing Messi could be beyond even them. A place in the quarter-finals of the Champions League, at Messi's expense, should not be.

Messi to Paris: Barcelona's nightmare, and PSG's unattainable dream?

A match official in the December Champions League game between Paris Saint-Germain and Istanbul Basaksehir that was suspended after allegations of racism has been banned for the rest of the season for "inappropriate behaviour", UEFA announced on Monday.

Sebastian Coltescu, from Romania, was banned from carrying out "any referee's function until the end of the 2020/21 season, i.e. until 30 June 2021" for "inappropriate behaviour" but was not found to have breached UEFA articles covering racism and other discriminatory conduct.

The game was stopped, and then finished a day later, after a touchline argument erupted over accusations Coltescu, who was the fourth official, had described Basaksehir's Cameroonian assistant coach Pierre Webo as "black", or "negru" in Romanian.

A match official in the December Champions League game between Paris Saint-Germain and Istanbul Basaksehir that was suspended after allegations of racism has been banned for the rest of the season for "inappropriate behaviour", UEFA announced on Monday.

A match official in the December Champions League game between Paris Saint-Germain and Istanbul Basaksehir that was suspended after allegations of racism has been banned for the rest of the season for "inappropriate behaviour", UEFA announced on Monday. Sebastian Coltescu, from Romania, was banned from carrying out "any referee's function until the end of the 2020/21 season, i.e. until 30 June 2021" for "inappropriate behaviour" but was not found to have breached UEFA articles covering racism and other discriminatory conduct. The game was stopped, and then finished a day later, after a touchline argument erupted over accusations Coltescu, who was the fourth official, had described Basaksehir's Cameroonian assistant coach Pierre Webo as "black", or "negru" in Romanian.

Official in suspended PSG-Basaksehir game banned for rest of season - UEFA

In what comes as a huge boost for Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises, England players are set to skip the first Test&nbsp;against New Zealand to participate in the 14th&nbsp;edition of the lucrative T20 tournament, which will be held in India from April 9 to May 30.&nbsp;&nbsp;

With T20 World Cups and ODI World Cups approaching, the ECB has given the option of picking between the Test series and IPL. The England players, if their team go till the final of IPL 2021, will at least miss the first Test match against New Zealand, scheduled to start from June 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;

England head coach Chris Silverwood confirmed the development as he said the players will be staying for the entire IPL 2021.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-schedule-team-wise-full-fixture-list-date-time-and-venues-368637" hreflang="en">IPL 2021 Schedule: Team-wise full fixture list, date, time and venues</a>

"We haven't looked at selection or anything like that for the Tests yet, but, for me, playing for your country is a big thing. It's difficult to change anything so they'll be staying for the whole IPL as it stands, yes. Listen, we'll be looking at the Test series and working our way back to see what sort of preparation we need and we haven't done that at this time. It's something we will be doing,” Silverwood said during a virtual press conference.&nbsp;

The round-robin phase of IPL 2021 will end on May 23 with the playoffs and final taking place from May 25 to 30.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/had-to-dig-deep-to-find-water-ravi-shastri-on-road-to-world-test-championship-final-368614" hreflang="en">Had to dig deep to find water: Ravi Shastri on road to World Test Championship final</a>

England's players in IPL (List includes players who aren't part of the Test team): Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler, Jofra Archer, Liam Livingstone (all Rajasthan Royals), Sam Curran, Moeen Ali (both Chennai Super Kings), Chris Jordan, Dawid Malan (both Punjab Kings), Chris&nbsp;Woakes, Sam Billings, Tom Curran (all Delhi Capitals), Eoin Morgan (Kolkata Knight Riders), Jonny Bairstow (Sunrisers Hyderabad).&nbsp;

In what comes as a huge boost for Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises, England players are set to skip the first Test against New Zealand to participate in the 14th edition of the lucrative T20 tournament, which will be held in India from April 9 to May 30.

In what comes as a huge boost for Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises, England players are set to skip the first Test against New Zealand to participate in the 14th edition of the lucrative T20 tournament, which will be held in India from April 9 to May 30. With T20 World Cups and ODI World Cups approaching, the ECB has given the option of picking between the Test series and IPL. The England players, if their team go till the final of IPL 2021, will at least miss the first Test match against New Zealand, scheduled to start from June 2. England head coach Chris Silverwood confirmed the development as he said the players will be staying for the entire IPL 2021. ALSO READ: IPL 2021 Schedule: Team-wise full fixture list, date, time and venues "We haven't looked at selection or anything like that for the Tests yet, but, for me, playing for your country is a big thing. It's difficult to change anything so they'll be staying for the whole IPL as it stands, yes. Listen, we'll be looking at the Test series and working our way back to see what sort of preparation we need and we haven't done that at this time. It's something we will be doing,” Silverwood said during a virtual press conference. The round-robin phase of IPL 2021 will end on May 23 with the playoffs and final taking place from May 25 to 30. ALSO READ: Had to dig deep to find water: Ravi Shastri on road to World Test Championship final England's players in IPL (List includes players who aren't part of the Test team): Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler, Jofra Archer, Liam Livingstone (all Rajasthan Royals), Sam Curran, Moeen Ali (both Chennai Super Kings), Chris Jordan, Dawid Malan (both Punjab Kings), Chris Woakes, Sam Billings, Tom Curran (all Delhi Capitals), Eoin Morgan (Kolkata Knight Riders), Jonny Bairstow (Sunrisers Hyderabad).

Huge boost for IPL 2021 franchises as England players set to skip New Zealand Test

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp hopes a change of competition will give his side a break from their wretched Premier League form that has put their chances of a top-four finish in jeopardy.

A sixth successive home league defeat, the latest to struggling Fulham on Sunday, left the Reds well adrift of Champions League qualification, having played more matches than the teams immediately above them.

On Wednesday they will play in Budapest again -- the "home" second leg of their Champions League last-16 tie against RB Leipzig, holding a 2-0 lead.

Not playing at Anfield, due to coronavirus travel restrictions, could be a relief to Klopp following his team's dismal run.

"If we can go through, which is not guaranteed, then that could give confidence," said the German manager. &nbsp;

"Then we have Wolves, which is a tough one, and then we have a couple of weeks off because of the international break and all these kind of things.

"We have to use that time, we have to hope all the boys who go to their national teams come back healthy, like always.

"Then I think there are another nine or 10 games to go, sounds like 27 or 30 points, so a lot to go for and we will try."

Diogo Jota and Fabinho are both likely to start against Leipzig after returning from lengthy injury spells but Klopp does not believe his side will be able to recover the swagger they had over the past two seasons until everyone is fit again.

Captain Jordan Henderson should play again this season after groin surgery but centre-backs Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez and Joel Matip have been ruled out of the remainder of the current campaign.

"For being the successful team again, for being the team we can be in the best possible way, of course we have to be complete," said Klopp, who led Liverpool to their first English top-flight title for 30 years last season.

James Milner, captaining the side in the absence of Henderson, said Liverpool, who were top of the table at Christmas, were letting their fans down.

"It definitely hurts," he told Sky Sports. "When you're playing for a club with the history of Liverpool, the history we've created as a group of players, the standards we've set, we're not hitting them at this moment in time and it's not good enough.

"It's disappointing and hard when you're letting the club down and letting the fans down.

"It's for us to keep pushing and dig ourselves out of the mess."

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp hopes a change of competition will give his side a break from their wretched Premier League form that has put their chances of a top-four finish in jeopardy.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp hopes a change of competition will give his side a break from their wretched Premier League form that has put their chances of a top-four finish in jeopardy. A sixth successive home league defeat, the latest to struggling Fulham on Sunday, left the Reds well adrift of Champions League qualification, having played more matches than the teams immediately above them. On Wednesday they will play in Budapest again -- the "home" second leg of their Champions League last-16 tie against RB Leipzig, holding a 2-0 lead. Not playing at Anfield, due to coronavirus travel restrictions, could be a relief to Klopp following his team's dismal run. "If we can go through, which is not guaranteed, then that could give confidence," said the German manager. "Then we have Wolves, which is a tough one, and then we have a couple of weeks off because of the international break and all these kind of things. "We have to use that time, we have to hope all the boys who go to their national teams come back healthy, like always. "Then I think there are another nine or 10 games to go, sounds like 27 or 30 points, so a lot to go for and we will try." Diogo Jota and Fabinho are both likely to start against Leipzig after returning from lengthy injury spells but Klopp does not believe his side will be able to recover the swagger they had over the past two seasons until everyone is fit again. Captain Jordan Henderson should play again this season after groin surgery but centre-backs Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez and Joel Matip have been ruled out of the remainder of the current campaign. "For being the successful team again, for being the team we can be in the best possible way, of course we have to be complete," said Klopp, who led Liverpool to their first English top-flight title for 30 years last season. James Milner, captaining the side in the absence of Henderson, said Liverpool, who were top of the table at Christmas, were letting their fans down. "It definitely hurts," he told Sky Sports. "When you're playing for a club with the history of Liverpool, the history we've created as a group of players, the standards we've set, we're not hitting them at this moment in time and it's not good enough. "It's disappointing and hard when you're letting the club down and letting the fans down. "It's for us to keep pushing and dig ourselves out of the mess."

Klopp hopes for Champions League respite for struggling Liverpool

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president on Monday heaped praise on Rahul Dravid for nurturing young talents and looking after second-string players who have performed brilliantly for Team India&nbsp;after coming through the ranks.&nbsp;&nbsp;

After leading Team India during their respective playing careers, both Ganguly and Dravid have now become the face of Indian cricket but in different roles. While Ganguly is the president of the Indian cricket board, Dravid is in charge of the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru.&nbsp;Dravid has taken the role of grooming young talents with the likes of Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, Mohammed Siraj, Washington Sundar, Prithvi Shaw among many others representing Team India.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Talking about Dravid's contribution to Indian cricket, the BCCI chief lauded ‘the wall’ for nurturing young talents.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-how-do-india-and-new-zealand-fare-at-ageas-bowl-in-southampton-a-look-at-key-stats-368918" hreflang="en">WTC Final: How do India and New Zealand fare at Ageas Bowl in Southampton? A look at key stats</a>

“I always say that Rahul Dravid has done a great job at the NCA (in Bangalore) as he looks after the&nbsp;second-string&nbsp;players. Mohammed Siraj, you know I see a lot of talent in him, Shardul Thakur every time they have got opportunities they have just stood up," Ganguly told India Today.&nbsp;

India's bench strength was tested during their Test series against Australia and England when many of the key players picked up injuries. While senior players were down and out due to injuries,&nbsp;players&nbsp;like Siraj, Washington, Pant, Natarajan and&nbsp;Shardul Thakur stood up in their absence. India won the four-Test series against Australia 2-1, the Virat Kohli-led side dominated England to bag the series 3-1.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-southampton-to-host-icc-world-test-championship-final-confirms-sourav-ganguly-368899" hreflang="en">IND vs NZ: Southampton to host ICC World Test Championship final, confirms Sourav Ganguly</a>

“We spoke about&nbsp;Bumrah&nbsp;for all of last year, but India wins without him as well. In Australia, the last Test match, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Siraj, no Ishant Sharma in the squad, and you beat Australia in Australia. That's remarkable,” Ganguly added.&nbsp;

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president on Monday heaped praise on Rahul Dravid for nurturing young talents and looking after second-string players who have performed brilliantly for Team India after coming through the ranks.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president on Monday heaped praise on Rahul Dravid for nurturing young talents and looking after second-string players who have performed brilliantly for Team India after coming through the ranks. After leading Team India during their respective playing careers, both Ganguly and Dravid have now become the face of Indian cricket but in different roles. While Ganguly is the president of the Indian cricket board, Dravid is in charge of the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru. Dravid has taken the role of grooming young talents with the likes of Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, Mohammed Siraj, Washington Sundar, Prithvi Shaw among many others representing Team India. Talking about Dravid's contribution to Indian cricket, the BCCI chief lauded ‘the wall’ for nurturing young talents. ALSO READ: WTC Final: How do India and New Zealand fare at Ageas Bowl in Southampton? A look at key stats “I always say that Rahul Dravid has done a great job at the NCA (in Bangalore) as he looks after the second-string players. Mohammed Siraj, you know I see a lot of talent in him, Shardul Thakur every time they have got opportunities they have just stood up," Ganguly told India Today. India's bench strength was tested during their Test series against Australia and England when many of the key players picked up injuries. While senior players were down and out due to injuries, players like Siraj, Washington, Pant, Natarajan and Shardul Thakur stood up in their absence. India won the four-Test series against Australia 2-1, the Virat Kohli-led side dominated England to bag the series 3-1. ALSO READ: IND vs NZ: Southampton to host ICC World Test Championship final, confirms Sourav Ganguly “We spoke about Bumrah for all of last year, but India wins without him as well. In Australia, the last Test match, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Siraj, no Ishant Sharma in the squad, and you beat Australia in Australia. That's remarkable,” Ganguly added.

'I always say...': Sourav Ganguly lauds Rahul Dravid for doing 'great job' at National Cricket Academy

The BCCI president on Monday confirmed that the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final between India and New Zealand will be hosted by the Ageas Bowl in Southampton. The summit clash is scheduled to be held between June 18-22.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"I'm looking forward to attending the World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand in Southampton," Ganguly said on India Today.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Yeah, it is in Southampton. It was decided long time ago. Due to COVID and they [in Southampton] have the hotel absolutely close. When England resumed play after COVID, they had a lot of matches in Southampton due to the same reason."&nbsp;

The Ageas Bowl in Southampton boasts a five-star hotel attached to the stadium and provides plenty of logistical and operational convenience in times of bio-secure bubbles. Southampton had hosted matches between England and West Indies, and Pakistan.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{1d9237ff-db60-45cd-a64d-d45b7e8af72b}{99}" paraid="1731037771" >How do India and New Zealand fare at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton: A look at key stats</h2>

So how do India and New Zealand fare at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton? With the venue of the ICC World Test Championship all but officially confirmed, let us take a look at some of the key stats from both India and New Zealand at the&nbsp;Ageas&nbsp;Bowl.&nbsp;

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{c3a5f360-ebf4-450f-b4a0-7a53adf28872}{144}" paraid="91912517" >Only 6 Tests hosted by Ageas Bowl</h2>

The Ageas Bowl has hosted just six Test matches thus far with India playing two of them. However, India don't have a great record at the venue with MS-Dhoni led India suffering a 266-run hammering back in 2014. The match was dominated by the likes of Gary Ballance and Ian Bell who registered centuries. whereas James Anderson ended with seven wickets in the match including a five-for.&nbsp;

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{1d9237ff-db60-45cd-a64d-d45b7e8af72b}{153}" paraid="1862149208" >Virat Kohli leads run-scoring charts for India at the Ageas Bowl</h2>

In 2018, when Virat Kohli-led India played in Southampton, the visitors suffered a 60-run defeat. While India started the match on the front foot, even taking a first-innings lead, poor performance with the bat in the second innings helped England win the Test match. Cheteshwar Pujara had registered a gritty century in the first innings but no one apart from Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane managed to tackle the English bowlers in the second innings. Moeen Ali was the standout bowler for England as he ended up with a total of nine wickets in the match.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-southampton-to-host-icc-world-test-championship-final-confirms-sourav-ganguly-368899" hreflang="en">IND vs NZ: Southampton to host ICC World Test Championship final, confirms Sourav Ganguly</a>

Talking about individual performances,&nbsp;the matches at Ageas Bowl have been dominated by both batsmen and bowlers. While pacers enjoy early assistance, spinners have come into play in the third and fourth innings of the matches played in Southampton.&nbsp;

England's Zak Crawley has scored the most&nbsp;number of runs at the Ageas Bowl with 406 runs (in 4 innings) under his belt. For India, Virat Kohli has registered&nbsp;most&nbsp;number of runs at the venue with 171 runs in 4 innings at an average of 42.75. Ajinkya Rahane is next on the list with 168 runs in 4 innings at an average of 56 followed by Cheteshwar Pujara with 163 runs at an average of 54.33.&nbsp;

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{835b1c6d-31dd-4c84-8710-1f8f13dfa93c}{83}" paraid="730857699" >Mohammed Shami leads wicket-taking charts for India at the Ageas Bowl</h2>

In terms of bowling performances, James Anderson is the leading wicket-taker at the&nbsp;venue&nbsp;with 26 scalps in just six matches. For India, Mohammed Shami leads the list with 7 wickets in 2 matches followed by Ravindra Jadeja (5), Ishant Sharma (4), Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah&nbsp;(4) and Bhuvneshwar Kumar (4).&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-likely-to-send-second-string-india-squad-for-asia-cup-2021-report-368887" hreflang="en">BCCI likely to send second-string India squad for Asia Cup 2021: Report</a>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{835b1c6d-31dd-4c84-8710-1f8f13dfa93c}{95}" paraid="1047667743" >New Zealand yet to play a Test in Southampton</h2>

New Zealand haven't played at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton when it comes to the longest format of the game but the Black Caps have been in action in limited-overs cricket.&nbsp;

In ODIs, New Zealand have played three matches at the venue with two wins and a no-result. In 2013, New Zealand defeated England by 86 runs and three wickets respectively to bag their twin wins in Southampton.&nbsp;

The ICC World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton on June 18-22 promises to be a cracker of a contest.&nbsp;

The BCCI president on Monday confirmed that the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final between India and New Zealand will be hosted by the Ageas Bowl in Southampton.

The BCCI president on Monday confirmed that the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final between India and New Zealand will be hosted by the Ageas Bowl in Southampton. The summit clash is scheduled to be held between June 18-22. "I'm looking forward to attending the World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand in Southampton," Ganguly said on India Today. "Yeah, it is in Southampton. It was decided long time ago. Due to COVID and they [in Southampton] have the hotel absolutely close. When England resumed play after COVID, they had a lot of matches in Southampton due to the same reason." The Ageas Bowl in Southampton boasts a five-star hotel attached to the stadium and provides plenty of logistical and operational convenience in times of bio-secure bubbles. Southampton had hosted matches between England and West Indies, and Pakistan. How do India and New Zealand fare at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton: A look at key stats So how do India and New Zealand fare at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton? With the venue of the ICC World Test Championship all but officially confirmed, let us take a look at some of the key stats from both India and New Zealand at the Ageas Bowl. Only 6 Tests hosted by Ageas Bowl The Ageas Bowl has hosted just six Test matches thus far with India playing two of them. However, India don't have a great record at the venue with MS-Dhoni led India suffering a 266-run hammering back in 2014. The match was dominated by the likes of Gary Ballance and Ian Bell who registered centuries. whereas James Anderson ended with seven wickets in the match including a five-for. Virat Kohli leads run-scoring charts for India at the Ageas Bowl In 2018, when Virat Kohli-led India played in Southampton, the visitors suffered a 60-run defeat. While India started the match on the front foot, even taking a first-innings lead, poor performance with the bat in the second innings helped England win the Test match. Cheteshwar Pujara had registered a gritty century in the first innings but no one apart from Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane managed to tackle the English bowlers in the second innings. Moeen Ali was the standout bowler for England as he ended up with a total of nine wickets in the match. ALSO READ: IND vs NZ: Southampton to host ICC World Test Championship final, confirms Sourav Ganguly Talking about individual performances, the matches at Ageas Bowl have been dominated by both batsmen and bowlers. While pacers enjoy early assistance, spinners have come into play in the third and fourth innings of the matches played in Southampton. England's Zak Crawley has scored the most number of runs at the Ageas Bowl with 406 runs (in 4 innings) under his belt. For India, Virat Kohli has registered most number of runs at the venue with 171 runs in 4 innings at an average of 42.75. Ajinkya Rahane is next on the list with 168 runs in 4 innings at an average of 56 followed by Cheteshwar Pujara with 163 runs at an average of 54.33. Mohammed Shami leads wicket-taking charts for India at the Ageas Bowl In terms of bowling performances, James Anderson is the leading wicket-taker at the venue with 26 scalps in just six matches. For India, Mohammed Shami leads the list with 7 wickets in 2 matches followed by Ravindra Jadeja (5), Ishant Sharma (4), Jasprit Bumrah (4) and Bhuvneshwar Kumar (4). ALSO READ: BCCI likely to send second-string India squad for Asia Cup 2021: Report New Zealand yet to play a Test in Southampton New Zealand haven't played at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton when it comes to the longest format of the game but the Black Caps have been in action in limited-overs cricket. In ODIs, New Zealand have played three matches at the venue with two wins and a no-result. In 2013, New Zealand defeated England by 86 runs and three wickets respectively to bag their twin wins in Southampton. The ICC World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton on June 18-22 promises to be a cracker of a contest.

WTC Final: How do India and New Zealand fare at Ageas Bowl in Southampton? A look at key stats

The ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final between India and New Zealand is all set to be hosted by the Ageas Bowl in Southampton from June 18-22, confirmed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly.&nbsp;

There were reports that the final of the World Test Championship was shifted from the iconic Lord's as originally planned with Ganguly now revealing Southampton will be hosting the inaugural final of WTC between India and New Zealand. However, there has been no confirmation in regards to the venue by the ICC.&nbsp;

"I'm looking forward to attending the World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand in Southampton," Ganguly said on India Today.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Yeah, it is in Southampton. It was decided a long time ago. Due to COVID and they [in Southampton] have the hotel absolutely close. When England resumed play after COVID, they had a lot of matches in Southampton due to the same reason."&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-likely-to-send-second-string-india-squad-for-asia-cup-2021-report-368887" hreflang="en">BCCI likely to send second-string India squad for Asia Cup 2021: Report</a>

India and New Zealand qualified for the summit clash after coming first and second in the WTC standings respectively. While India ended with the maximum percentage points, New Zealand came second to set-up the mouth-watering clash.&nbsp;The Ageas Bowl in Southampton boasts a five-star hotel attached to the stadium and provides plenty of logistical and operational convenience in times of bio-secure bubbles. Southampton had hosted matches between England and West Indies, and Pakistan.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ganguly lauded the players for their mental strength given they had to spend around six months in bio-secure bubbles starting from the IPL 2020. The former Indian skipper hoped that India defeat New Zealand in the final while congratulating Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane and everyone involved in the squad.&nbsp;

Ganguly was asked about whether the World Test Championship comes together with the 50-over World Cup to which the BCCI president said:&nbsp;“Every trophy has its own value. The 50-over World Cup is an amazing spectacle. It (WTC) was a bit complicated this time because of the pandemic. We will see when every team has played an equal number of games.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/on-international-womens-day-icc-announces-expansion-of-womens-game-368867" hreflang="en">On International Women's Day, ICC announces expansion of women's game</a>

“Massive achievements given what the players have gone through. Right from the IPL in September to early March and they are not finished yet. A good 6 months in bio-bubbles and what they have achieved is fantastic,” Ganguly said.&nbsp;

“Looking forward to the WTC final and I hope we get past New Zealand. Congratulate Rahane, Kohli, everyone involved. The way Pant won India the Brisbane game was excellent,” he added.&nbsp;

The ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final between India and New Zealand is all set to be hosted by the Ageas Bowl in Southampton from June 18-22, confirmed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly.

The ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final between India and New Zealand is all set to be hosted by the Ageas Bowl in Southampton from June 18-22, confirmed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly. There were reports that the final of the World Test Championship was shifted from the iconic Lord's as originally planned with Ganguly now revealing Southampton will be hosting the inaugural final of WTC between India and New Zealand. However, there has been no confirmation in regards to the venue by the ICC. "I'm looking forward to attending the World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand in Southampton," Ganguly said on India Today. "Yeah, it is in Southampton. It was decided a long time ago. Due to COVID and they [in Southampton] have the hotel absolutely close. When England resumed play after COVID, they had a lot of matches in Southampton due to the same reason." ALSO READ: BCCI likely to send second-string India squad for Asia Cup 2021: Report India and New Zealand qualified for the summit clash after coming first and second in the WTC standings respectively. While India ended with the maximum percentage points, New Zealand came second to set-up the mouth-watering clash. The Ageas Bowl in Southampton boasts a five-star hotel attached to the stadium and provides plenty of logistical and operational convenience in times of bio-secure bubbles. Southampton had hosted matches between England and West Indies, and Pakistan. Ganguly lauded the players for their mental strength given they had to spend around six months in bio-secure bubbles starting from the IPL 2020. The former Indian skipper hoped that India defeat New Zealand in the final while congratulating Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane and everyone involved in the squad. Ganguly was asked about whether the World Test Championship comes together with the 50-over World Cup to which the BCCI president said: “Every trophy has its own value. The 50-over World Cup is an amazing spectacle. It (WTC) was a bit complicated this time because of the pandemic. We will see when every team has played an equal number of games.” ALSO READ: On International Women's Day, ICC announces expansion of women's game “Massive achievements given what the players have gone through. Right from the IPL in September to early March and they are not finished yet. A good 6 months in bio-bubbles and what they have achieved is fantastic,” Ganguly said. “Looking forward to the WTC final and I hope we get past New Zealand. Congratulate Rahane, Kohli, everyone involved. The way Pant won India the Brisbane game was excellent,” he added.

IND vs NZ: Southampton to host ICC World Test Championship final, confirms Sourav Ganguly

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to send a second-string team to Sri Lanka if Asia Cup 2021 takes place as per the schedule. With India participating in the final of the ICC World Test Championship scheduled for June 18-22, the first-team players will be engaged&nbsp;in preparations for the summit clash against New Zealand.

According to a report in TOI,&nbsp;the Indian team is set to send a second-string side to participate in the Asia Cup 2021 due to the hectic schedule.&nbsp;Furthermore, India&nbsp;are&nbsp;scheduled to tour England for a five-match Test series and the players are likely to stay back in the United Kingdom to continue their preparations for the much-awaited series after the WTC final.&nbsp;

India and New Zealand&nbsp;are set to lock horns in&nbsp;the final from June 18 to 22 while Asia Cup&nbsp;2021&nbsp;is likely to begin in the last week of the same month.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/on-international-womens-day-icc-announces-expansion-of-womens-game-368867" hreflang="en">On International Women's Day, ICC announces expansion of women's game</a>

“There’s no other choice. We can’t risk the preparation for the series in England. And cricketers can’t twice undergo quarantine. If the Asia Cup happens, India will have no option but to send a second-string squad,” sources told&nbsp;TOI.&nbsp;

A second-string Indian side suggests that the Men in Blue will be without the likes of Virat Kohli, Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant among others.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/psl-6-botch-franchise-owners-set-to-submit-list-of-grievances-to-pcb-chairman-368856" hreflang="en">PSL 6 botch: Franchise owners set to submit list of grievances to PCB chairman</a>

India would be eyeing a hat-trick of Asia Cup wins having won the last two editions of the tournament.&nbsp;Also,&nbsp;India&nbsp;are the most successful team in the history of&nbsp;Asia Cup&nbsp;with seven titles to their name.&nbsp;

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to send a second-string team to Sri Lanka if Asia Cup 2021 takes place as per the schedule. With India participating in the final of the ICC World Test Championship scheduled for June 18-22, the first-team players will be engaged in preparations for the summit clash against New Zealand.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to send a second-string team to Sri Lanka if Asia Cup 2021 takes place as per the schedule. With India participating in the final of the ICC World Test Championship scheduled for June 18-22, the first-team players will be engaged in preparations for the summit clash against New Zealand. According to a report in TOI, the Indian team is set to send a second-string side to participate in the Asia Cup 2021 due to the hectic schedule. Furthermore, India are scheduled to tour England for a five-match Test series and the players are likely to stay back in the United Kingdom to continue their preparations for the much-awaited series after the WTC final. India and New Zealand are set to lock horns in the final from June 18 to 22 while Asia Cup 2021 is likely to begin in the last week of the same month. ALSO READ: On International Women's Day, ICC announces expansion of women's game “There’s no other choice. We can’t risk the preparation for the series in England. And cricketers can’t twice undergo quarantine. If the Asia Cup happens, India will have no option but to send a second-string squad,” sources told TOI. A second-string Indian side suggests that the Men in Blue will be without the likes of Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant among others. ALSO READ: PSL 6 botch: Franchise owners set to submit list of grievances to PCB chairman India would be eyeing a hat-trick of Asia Cup wins having won the last two editions of the tournament. Also, India are the most successful team in the history of Asia Cup with seven titles to their name.

BCCI likely to send second-string India squad for Asia Cup 2021: Report

A South Korean Olympic short-track speed skating champion banned from the national team for sexual harassment has taken Chinese citizenship and will skate for the hosts at next year's Beijing Winter Games, reports said.

It will be the second consecutive home Winter Olympics for Lim Hyo-jun, after he won 1500m gold and 500m bronze at the 2018 Winter Games in Pyeongchang, South Korea.

But last year the 24-year-old was convicted of sexual harassment after he pulled down another male athlete's trousers in front of teammates at the national training centre.

The verdict was overturned on appeal, but the case is now before the South's Supreme Court for a final decision.

The Korea Skating Union suspended Lim for a year in August 2019, and while the penalty has been put on hold during the legal process, if the court finds against him it would rule him out of the Beijing Games.

Lim decided instead to become a naturalised Chinese citizen and skate for China, according to South Korean media reports.

He left for China on Friday after receiving his new passport, South Korean broadcaster MBC said, and was expected to join Beijing's national team after fulfilling his coronavirus quarantine requirements.

Lim made his decision on the basis of what was best for his career, according to his agency Brion.

"As the legal battle dragged on, it has become difficult for Lim to represent South Korea and try to win his second straight Olympic gold medal in Beijing," Yonhap reported, citing a statement from the agency.

He had not been able to train in the South for the past two years, it said, adding: "He just wanted to find ways to put his skates back on."

Lim is not the first South Korean skating star to change his allegiance.

In 2011, Ahn Hyun-soo -- who won three golds at the 2006 Winter Games -- was fast-tracked to Russian citizenship and competed at Sochi as Russian athlete Victor Ahn, after he suffered injury problems and fell out with South Korean skating officials.

South Korea is a regional sporting power and regularly finishes in the top 10 in the medals tables at the summer and winter Olympics.

But in an already intensely competitive society, winning is virtually everything in its sports community -- and physical and verbal abuse are rife.

The nation's short-track speed skating community in particular has faced several serious abuse scandals in recent years.

In January, a former national speed skating coach was sentenced to over a decade in prison for sexually assaulting double Olympic gold medallist Shim Suk-hee.&nbsp;

A South Korean Olympic short-track speed skating champion banned from the national team for sexual harassment has taken Chinese citizenship and will skate for the hosts at next year's Beijing Winter Games, reports said.

A South Korean Olympic short-track speed skating champion banned from the national team for sexual harassment has taken Chinese citizenship and will skate for the hosts at next year's Beijing Winter Games, reports said. It will be the second consecutive home Winter Olympics for Lim Hyo-jun, after he won 1500m gold and 500m bronze at the 2018 Winter Games in Pyeongchang, South Korea. But last year the 24-year-old was convicted of sexual harassment after he pulled down another male athlete's trousers in front of teammates at the national training centre. The verdict was overturned on appeal, but the case is now before the South's Supreme Court for a final decision. The Korea Skating Union suspended Lim for a year in August 2019, and while the penalty has been put on hold during the legal process, if the court finds against him it would rule him out of the Beijing Games. Lim decided instead to become a naturalised Chinese citizen and skate for China, according to South Korean media reports. He left for China on Friday after receiving his new passport, South Korean broadcaster MBC said, and was expected to join Beijing's national team after fulfilling his coronavirus quarantine requirements. Lim made his decision on the basis of what was best for his career, according to his agency Brion. "As the legal battle dragged on, it has become difficult for Lim to represent South Korea and try to win his second straight Olympic gold medal in Beijing," Yonhap reported, citing a statement from the agency. He had not been able to train in the South for the past two years, it said, adding: "He just wanted to find ways to put his skates back on." Lim is not the first South Korean skating star to change his allegiance. In 2011, Ahn Hyun-soo -- who won three golds at the 2006 Winter Games -- was fast-tracked to Russian citizenship and competed at Sochi as Russian athlete Victor Ahn, after he suffered injury problems and fell out with South Korean skating officials. South Korea is a regional sporting power and regularly finishes in the top 10 in the medals tables at the summer and winter Olympics. But in an already intensely competitive society, winning is virtually everything in its sports community -- and physical and verbal abuse are rife. The nation's short-track speed skating community in particular has faced several serious abuse scandals in recent years. In January, a former national speed skating coach was sentenced to over a decade in prison for sexually assaulting double Olympic gold medallist Shim Suk-hee.

S. Korean Olympic champ banned for harassment to skate for China: reports

On International Women’s Day, a year after the resounding success of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2020, the International Cricket Council (ICC) announced the expansion of women’s cricket events post the 2023 cycle.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

More teams will compete in both the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup and the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup from 2026 onwards as part of the ICC’s long-term commitment to growing the game globally and in a sustainable fashion.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The revised formats will give more teams the chance to compete on the global stage and importantly provides Members with a window to grow the game domestically and to challenge internationally as the changes take place.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/denying-ms-dhoni-to-play-his-potential-last-ipl-in-chennai-franchises-left-unhappy-over-scheduling-368834" hreflang="en">Denying MS Dhoni to play his potential last IPL in Chennai: Franchises left unhappy over scheduling</a>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{e6611ecf-52c7-4386-aed1-8c0cef1db2b3}{34}" paraid="312895998" >The revised structure will be as follows:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

<ul>
	<li>ICC Women's World Cup 2025 - 8 teams, 31 matches</li>
	<li>ICC Women's World Cup 2029 - 10 teams, 48 matches</li>
	<li>ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2024 - 10 teams, 23 matches</li>
	<li>ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 - 12 teams, 33 matches</li>
	<li>ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2028 - 12 teams, 33 matches</li>
	<li>ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2030 - 12 teams, 33 matches</li>
	<li>ICC Women's T20 Champions Cup 2027 - 6 teams, 16 matches</li>
	<li>ICC Women's T20 Champions Cup 2031 - 6 teams, 16 matches</li>
</ul>

Manu Sawhney, ICC Chief Executive said, “We have a clear focus and commitment to an ambitious long-term growth plan for the women’s game. We have been building momentum around the women’s game for the last four years investing in global broadcast coverage and marketing to drive fan engagement.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/havent-come-across-player-like-him-in-cricket-inzamam-ul-haq-lauds-rishabh-pant-368744" hreflang="en">'Haven't come across player like him in cricket': Inzamam-Ul-Haq lauds Rishabh Pant</a>

“The results speak for themselves with the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2020 attracting record numbers, 1.1 billion video views, making it the most watched women’s cricket event of all time and having 86,174 fans attending the final at the MCG, a record attendance for a women’s cricket event.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“This decision to expand our women’s events builds on these foundations and allows us to give more member countries greater opportunities to compete on a global stage. This means that more teams will also get the opportunity to compete in the qualification pathways for the respective ICC events over the coming years. I am sure these initiatives will go a long way in helping us achieve our strategic goal of continuing to build strength and depth in the women’s game.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

On International Women’s Day, a year after the resounding success of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2020, the International Cricket Council (ICC) announced the expansion of women’s cricket events post the 2023 cycle.

On International Women’s Day, a year after the resounding success of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2020, the International Cricket Council (ICC) announced the expansion of women’s cricket events post the 2023 cycle. More teams will compete in both the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup and the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup from 2026 onwards as part of the ICC’s long-term commitment to growing the game globally and in a sustainable fashion. The revised formats will give more teams the chance to compete on the global stage and importantly provides Members with a window to grow the game domestically and to challenge internationally as the changes take place. ALSO READ: Denying MS Dhoni to play his potential last IPL in Chennai: Franchises left unhappy over scheduling The revised structure will be as follows: ICC Women's World Cup 2025 - 8 teams, 31 matches ICC Women's World Cup 2029 - 10 teams, 48 matches ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2024 - 10 teams, 23 matches ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 - 12 teams, 33 matches ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2028 - 12 teams, 33 matches ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2030 - 12 teams, 33 matches ICC Women's T20 Champions Cup 2027 - 6 teams, 16 matches ICC Women's T20 Champions Cup 2031 - 6 teams, 16 matches Manu Sawhney, ICC Chief Executive said, “We have a clear focus and commitment to an ambitious long-term growth plan for the women’s game. We have been building momentum around the women’s game for the last four years investing in global broadcast coverage and marketing to drive fan engagement. ALSO READ: 'Haven't come across player like him in cricket': Inzamam-Ul-Haq lauds Rishabh Pant “The results speak for themselves with the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2020 attracting record numbers, 1.1 billion video views, making it the most watched women’s cricket event of all time and having 86,174 fans attending the final at the MCG, a record attendance for a women’s cricket event. “This decision to expand our women’s events builds on these foundations and allows us to give more member countries greater opportunities to compete on a global stage. This means that more teams will also get the opportunity to compete in the qualification pathways for the respective ICC events over the coming years. I am sure these initiatives will go a long way in helping us achieve our strategic goal of continuing to build strength and depth in the women’s game.”

On International Women's Day, ICC announces expansion of women's game

After the postponement of Pakistan Super League (PSL) 6, franchise owners are set to present a list of&nbsp;grievances to Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Ehsan Mani on Monday during a virtual meeting.&nbsp;

According to reports, PSL 6 franchise owners are expected to seek a refund&nbsp;of their submitted fees if the tournament cannot be completed in future. While PCB has assured that they will look to find&nbsp;time to complete the postponed PSL 6, the packed calendar makes things tricky for the&nbsp;organisers.&nbsp;

The PSL franchise owners have been left upset and disappointed by the approach of PCB CEO Wasim Khan, who reportedly was pushed on the back foot during a meeting as he shared the responsibility of mismanagement&nbsp;with a wide range of shareholders during the tournament.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/denying-ms-dhoni-to-play-his-potential-last-ipl-in-chennai-franchises-left-unhappy-over-scheduling-368834" hreflang="en">Denying MS Dhoni to play his potential last IPL in Chennai: Franchises left unhappy over scheduling</a>

Whereas, the PCB has also formed a two-member fact-finding committee panel that has also left the owners unhappy. While the panel has been asked to&nbsp;investigate&nbsp;the breaches in the Standard Operating&nbsp;Protocol&nbsp;(SOPs)&nbsp;following the postponement of PSL 6, the owners have been left fuming as they were not taken into consideration while&nbsp;finalising&nbsp;the move.&nbsp;

The franchise owners are also&nbsp;extremely&nbsp;concerned about financial losses. Notably, most foreign players have been paid 70 per cent of their fees despite featuring in four or five matches. Meanwhile, it is not yet clear whether any amount will be&nbsp;retrieved&nbsp;from the&nbsp;players who are not willing to participate in the tournament further.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shahid-afridis-daughter-to-get-engaged-with-this-pakistan-pacer-reports-368765" hreflang="en">Shahid Afridi's daughter to get engaged with this Pakistan pacer: Reports</a>

Earlier, former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar had slammed the PCB for its “incompetence” as he said the latest incident has destroyed the PSL brand.&nbsp;

"PSL brand got destroyed again just because of the incompetence. And the&nbsp;one's&nbsp;who do not even know how to write a prescription or see X-rays are PCB's doctors. I have witnessed this when I used to play, they (PCB doctors) did not know how to see X-rays. Nothing has changed so far," Akhtar said in his YouTube channel.

After the postponement of Pakistan Super League (PSL) 6, franchise owners are set to present a list of grievances to Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Ehsan Mani on Monday during a virtual meeting.

After the postponement of Pakistan Super League (PSL) 6, franchise owners are set to present a list of grievances to Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Ehsan Mani on Monday during a virtual meeting. According to reports, PSL 6 franchise owners are expected to seek a refund of their submitted fees if the tournament cannot be completed in future. While PCB has assured that they will look to find time to complete the postponed PSL 6, the packed calendar makes things tricky for the organisers. The PSL franchise owners have been left upset and disappointed by the approach of PCB CEO Wasim Khan, who reportedly was pushed on the back foot during a meeting as he shared the responsibility of mismanagement with a wide range of shareholders during the tournament. ALSO READ: Denying MS Dhoni to play his potential last IPL in Chennai: Franchises left unhappy over scheduling Whereas, the PCB has also formed a two-member fact-finding committee panel that has also left the owners unhappy. While the panel has been asked to investigate the breaches in the Standard Operating Protocol (SOPs) following the postponement of PSL 6, the owners have been left fuming as they were not taken into consideration while finalising the move. The franchise owners are also extremely concerned about financial losses. Notably, most foreign players have been paid 70 per cent of their fees despite featuring in four or five matches. Meanwhile, it is not yet clear whether any amount will be retrieved from the players who are not willing to participate in the tournament further. ALSO READ: Shahid Afridi's daughter to get engaged with this Pakistan pacer: Reports Earlier, former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar had slammed the PCB for its “incompetence” as he said the latest incident has destroyed the PSL brand. "PSL brand got destroyed again just because of the incompetence. And the one's who do not even know how to write a prescription or see X-rays are PCB's doctors. I have witnessed this when I used to play, they (PCB doctors) did not know how to see X-rays. Nothing has changed so far," Akhtar said in his YouTube channel.

PSL 6 botch: Franchise owners set to submit list of grievances to PCB chairman

The schedule and fixture list of the much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 was released on Sunday. Spread over six cities, IPL 2021 is set to commence from April 9. However, no franchise will have home advantage this term with matches to be held&nbsp;in neutral venues only. The schedule of IPL 2021 and the introduction of neutral venue have left a few franchises unhappy with some of them raising question on why they are being barred from playing in their home venues.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The cities of Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata&nbsp;will host&nbsp;IPL 2021 matches. The reason behind keeping neutral venues was to ensure parity on the field for every franchise while also ensuring no one gets added advantage of brand activation.&nbsp;

It was reported that three franchises were discontent when&nbsp;their&nbsp;venues weren't considered for IPL 2021 and according to a report in&nbsp;Cricbuzz, by addressing the concerns of three teams, who had earlier opposed the six-venue proposal,&nbsp;five other franchises could be less than satisfied with the final&nbsp;schedule.&nbsp;

"You are denying MS Dhoni to play his potential last IPL in Chennai. If there are to be no crowds, what stops CSK to play in Chennai and Mumbai Indians to play in Mumbai," asks one of the franchise officials&nbsp;as quoted by&nbsp;Cricbuzz.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-schedule-team-wise-full-fixture-list-date-time-and-venues-368637" hreflang="en">IPL 2021 Schedule: Team-wise full fixture list, date, time and venues</a>

"Delhi have players like Prithvi Shaw, Ajinkya Rahane and skipper Shreyas Iyer who are from Mumbai and the team plays its first three games at the Wankhede. They will have advantage just as Punjab Kings who have players like KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal, and coach Anil Kumble, and they play five games in Bangalore? Don't they have the advantage of being familiar with the conditions at the&nbsp;Chinnaswamy&nbsp;Stadium? The plan can be counter-productive."&nbsp;

The other&nbsp;concerns&nbsp;raised over the schedule have been on safety standards and logistical hazards. A team will have to fly out at least four times and according to some franchises, that could expose those participating&nbsp;to outsiders.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-banter-ravi-shastri-reacts-to-viral-memes-around-him-on-social-media-368581" hreflang="en">It's banter!: Ravi Shastri reacts to viral memes around him on social media</a>

"Those inside the team bubble are not allowed to meet the owners of their franchise and here by having to fly four times, change hotels and buses, the players will get exposed to outsiders," cautioned a franchise official, adding, "No doubt, we will engage charter flights and private airports but there will always be questions over the sanctity of the bio bubbles."&nbsp;

The report adds that the reason for&nbsp;finalising&nbsp;six venues was to spread out the risk factor amid the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

"It is a safer approach. What if the pandemic situation worsens in Maharashtra? Where do we go then? If now the situation worsens in Mumbai, or any of the other cities, we're prepared to host the tournament elsewhere," says one of those involved with the scheduling of the tournament.&nbsp;

The schedule and fixture list of the much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 was released on Sunday. Spread over six cities, IPL 2021 is set to commence from April 9.

The schedule and fixture list of the much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 was released on Sunday. Spread over six cities, IPL 2021 is set to commence from April 9. However, no franchise will have home advantage this term with matches to be held in neutral venues only. The schedule of IPL 2021 and the introduction of neutral venue have left a few franchises unhappy with some of them raising question on why they are being barred from playing in their home venues. The cities of Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata will host IPL 2021 matches. The reason behind keeping neutral venues was to ensure parity on the field for every franchise while also ensuring no one gets added advantage of brand activation. It was reported that three franchises were discontent when their venues weren't considered for IPL 2021 and according to a report in Cricbuzz, by addressing the concerns of three teams, who had earlier opposed the six-venue proposal, five other franchises could be less than satisfied with the final schedule. "You are denying MS Dhoni to play his potential last IPL in Chennai. If there are to be no crowds, what stops CSK to play in Chennai and Mumbai Indians to play in Mumbai," asks one of the franchise officials as quoted by Cricbuzz. ALSO READ: IPL 2021 Schedule: Team-wise full fixture list, date, time and venues "Delhi have players like Prithvi Shaw, Ajinkya Rahane and skipper Shreyas Iyer who are from Mumbai and the team plays its first three games at the Wankhede. They will have advantage just as Punjab Kings who have players like KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal, and coach Anil Kumble, and they play five games in Bangalore? Don't they have the advantage of being familiar with the conditions at the Chinnaswamy Stadium? The plan can be counter-productive." The other concerns raised over the schedule have been on safety standards and logistical hazards. A team will have to fly out at least four times and according to some franchises, that could expose those participating to outsiders. ALSO READ: It's banter!: Ravi Shastri reacts to viral memes around him on social media "Those inside the team bubble are not allowed to meet the owners of their franchise and here by having to fly four times, change hotels and buses, the players will get exposed to outsiders," cautioned a franchise official, adding, "No doubt, we will engage charter flights and private airports but there will always be questions over the sanctity of the bio bubbles." The report adds that the reason for finalising six venues was to spread out the risk factor amid the COVID-19 pandemic. "It is a safer approach. What if the pandemic situation worsens in Maharashtra? Where do we go then? If now the situation worsens in Mumbai, or any of the other cities, we're prepared to host the tournament elsewhere," says one of those involved with the scheduling of the tournament.

Denying MS Dhoni to play his potential last IPL in Chennai: Franchises left unhappy over scheduling

Joan Laporta returned as Barcelona president on Sunday after winning the club's elections by a landslide, with his central pledge to try to persuade Lionel Messi to stay.&nbsp;

Laporta was last president at Barca between 2003 and 2010, which included overseeing the hugely successful appointment of Pep Guardiola as coach and the iconic treble-winning team of 2008/9.&nbsp;

In total, the club won four La Liga titles and two Champions Leagues during Laporta's seven-year spell in charge.

The 58-year-old will return after holding off competition from Victor Font and Toni Freixa, the other two candidates to gain enough support to make the final stage.&nbsp;

Laporta won 30,184 votes, Font 16,679 and Freixa 4,769 from a total of 55,611 lodged by the club's members.

Amid champagne celebrations shared with his team on Sunday night, Laporta shouted with a grin on his face: "Now let's go to Paris and see if we can make another 'remontada' happen!"&nbsp;

Barcelona face Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday in the Champions League last 16, with a 4-1 deficit to make up from the opening leg.&nbsp;

Longer-term, Laporta's task will be to rebuild a club in crisis, with crippling debts exacerbated by the pandemic, its reputation damaged and Messi considering leaving for free when his contract expires this summer.&nbsp;

He has said he will do everything possible to keep Messi at Camp Nou and campaigned heavily on the idea he was the best-placed candidate to convince the Argentinian, owing to their relationship during his previous time in charge.&nbsp;

In his victory speech, Laporta picked up on Messi showing up to vote earlier in the day. "Seeing Leo, the best player in the world, come to vote with his son is for me a sign of what we have said all along," Laporta said.&nbsp;

<h2>- 'Leo loves Barca' -</h2>

"Leo loves Barca and knows that we are a big family. Hopefully that can help us encourage him to stay."

A change of regime also leaves coach Ronald Koeman's position uncertain, with Laporta insisting the Dutchman "deserves respect" for his work this season while maintaining his future will depend on results.

Koeman's contract runs until 2022.&nbsp;

"I am not worried because I have a contract and when we know who is going to be the president of course we will talk and I want him to show me his way," Koeman said on Friday.&nbsp;

Laporta's main rival for the presidency was Font, who was the early favourite after claiming he would bring former Barcelona midfielder Xavi Hernandez in as coach.&nbsp;

But the team's progress under Koeman and Laporta's superior campaign cast doubt over the promise, with Laporta questioning last week why Xavi had not come out in support of Font publicly.&nbsp;

Xavi may have been keen to keep his options open and the Spaniard caused a stir on Sunday by liking, and then unliking, an Instagram post of Laporta casting his ballot.&nbsp;

Laporta will also have to make decisions on Xavi's other former team-mates still at the club like Gerard Pique, Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, who have contributed so much but whose peak years are now behind them.&nbsp;

<h2>- 'Great family' -</h2>

Perhaps most importantly, his job will be to heal the deep mistrust that has developed between the board of directors and the dressing room, led by Messi and Pique.&nbsp;

"We are a great family," Laporta said. "We have a feeling of belonging to this club and that feeling will make us all go together to face the challenges that lie ahead."

The last president Josep Maria Bartomeu was forced to resign in October after the club's members succeeded in achieving a vote of no confidence against him.&nbsp;

But Bartomeu quit before facing the vote after overseeing a disastrous final year that included Messi attempting to leave, the team being humiliated by Bayern Munich in the Champions League and the club posting gross debts of 1.2 billion euros.&nbsp;

Bartomeu spent the night in prison last Monday after being arrested as part of a police investigation into alleged corruption.&nbsp;

Voters had been due to go to the polls on January 24 but were prevented due to restrictions in relating to the pandemic, meaning the election was postponed.

Ballots on Sunday were held at six different polling stations in Catalonia and Andorra between 9am and 9pm, while just over 22,000 voters were able to vote by post for the first time.&nbsp;

Laporta's victory was confirmed officially by the club at just before midnight.&nbsp;

Joan Laporta returned as Barcelona president on Sunday after winning the club's elections by a landslide, with his central pledge to try to persuade Lionel Messi to stay.

Joan Laporta returned as Barcelona president on Sunday after winning the club's elections by a landslide, with his central pledge to try to persuade Lionel Messi to stay. Laporta was last president at Barca between 2003 and 2010, which included overseeing the hugely successful appointment of Pep Guardiola as coach and the iconic treble-winning team of 2008/9. In total, the club won four La Liga titles and two Champions Leagues during Laporta's seven-year spell in charge. The 58-year-old will return after holding off competition from Victor Font and Toni Freixa, the other two candidates to gain enough support to make the final stage. Laporta won 30,184 votes, Font 16,679 and Freixa 4,769 from a total of 55,611 lodged by the club's members. Amid champagne celebrations shared with his team on Sunday night, Laporta shouted with a grin on his face: "Now let's go to Paris and see if we can make another 'remontada' happen!" Barcelona face Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday in the Champions League last 16, with a 4-1 deficit to make up from the opening leg. Longer-term, Laporta's task will be to rebuild a club in crisis, with crippling debts exacerbated by the pandemic, its reputation damaged and Messi considering leaving for free when his contract expires this summer. He has said he will do everything possible to keep Messi at Camp Nou and campaigned heavily on the idea he was the best-placed candidate to convince the Argentinian, owing to their relationship during his previous time in charge. In his victory speech, Laporta picked up on Messi showing up to vote earlier in the day. "Seeing Leo, the best player in the world, come to vote with his son is for me a sign of what we have said all along," Laporta said. - 'Leo loves Barca' - "Leo loves Barca and knows that we are a big family. Hopefully that can help us encourage him to stay." A change of regime also leaves coach Ronald Koeman's position uncertain, with Laporta insisting the Dutchman "deserves respect" for his work this season while maintaining his future will depend on results. Koeman's contract runs until 2022. "I am not worried because I have a contract and when we know who is going to be the president of course we will talk and I want him to show me his way," Koeman said on Friday. Laporta's main rival for the presidency was Font, who was the early favourite after claiming he would bring former Barcelona midfielder Xavi Hernandez in as coach. But the team's progress under Koeman and Laporta's superior campaign cast doubt over the promise, with Laporta questioning last week why Xavi had not come out in support of Font publicly. Xavi may have been keen to keep his options open and the Spaniard caused a stir on Sunday by liking, and then unliking, an Instagram post of Laporta casting his ballot. Laporta will also have to make decisions on Xavi's other former team-mates still at the club like Gerard Pique, Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, who have contributed so much but whose peak years are now behind them. - 'Great family' - Perhaps most importantly, his job will be to heal the deep mistrust that has developed between the board of directors and the dressing room, led by Messi and Pique. "We are a great family," Laporta said. "We have a feeling of belonging to this club and that feeling will make us all go together to face the challenges that lie ahead." The last president Josep Maria Bartomeu was forced to resign in October after the club's members succeeded in achieving a vote of no confidence against him. But Bartomeu quit before facing the vote after overseeing a disastrous final year that included Messi attempting to leave, the team being humiliated by Bayern Munich in the Champions League and the club posting gross debts of 1.2 billion euros. Bartomeu spent the night in prison last Monday after being arrested as part of a police investigation into alleged corruption. Voters had been due to go to the polls on January 24 but were prevented due to restrictions in relating to the pandemic, meaning the election was postponed. Ballots on Sunday were held at six different polling stations in Catalonia and Andorra between 9am and 9pm, while just over 22,000 voters were able to vote by post for the first time. Laporta's victory was confirmed officially by the club at just before midnight.

Barca given fresh start as Laporta elected new club president

Borussia Dortmund do not expect "crazy things to happen" this summer despite a host of Europe's biggest clubs reported to be queueing up to try and sign striker Erling Braut Haaland.

The Norwegian became the first player to reach 10 Champions League goals in just seven games for a single club when he netted twice in Dortmund's 3-2 win at Sevilla in the last 16, first leg.

The German side, who host Sevilla on Tuesday in the return game, have often relied this season on the 20-year-old Haaland.

There is reportedly a release clause in his contract which applies from the summer of 2022 for around 105 million euros ($125 million).

But Dortmund CEO Hans-Joachim Watzke told Sky this weekend he does not expect "crazy things to happen" in the transfer market after this season.

But if and when Haaland leaves, Dortmund stand to make at least five times the 20 million euros they paid Salzburg for his services in January 2020.

And Watzke did not rule out losing either Haaland or England winger Jadon Sancho if "extraordinary things happen".

Haaland has scored eight goals in just five Champions League appearances this season to take his career tally in the competition to 18 in 13 games for Dortmund and Salzburg.

He netted two early goals at Bayern Munich on Saturday before the club world champions fought back to claim a 4-2 win as Robert Lewandowski scored a hat-trick.

Despite coming off with a cut ankle at the Allianz Arena, Haaland is expected to be fit to face Sevilla.

His record of 29 goals in 28 games this season has unsurprisingly attracted the attention of Europe's top teams.

"Only a maximum of 10 clubs can afford to buy him and give him the platform he wants after his time in Dortmund," Haaland's agent Mino Raiola said recently.

Real Madrid and Chelsea are reportedly at the head of the queue, eager to buy Haaland out of his contract, which expires in June 2024.

<h2>- Benzema replacement? -</h2>

According to German magazine Sport Bild, Haaland admires Real, who are seeking a replacement for Karim Benzema, 33, whose contract expires next year, although the La Liga champions have long been linked with France star Kylian Mbappe.

Manchester City, owned by Sheikh Mansour, have the financial clout to sign Haaland, with their first-choice striker Sergio Aguero out of contract in June, and plagued by injuries this season.

A move to the Etihad Stadium would see the Leeds-born striker follow in the footsteps of his father Alf-Inge Haaland, who played for City from 2000-03.

Even Bayern have expressed interest in Haaland as a potential replacement for Lewandowski.

"Lots and lots of things are possible, you can't rule anything out," Bayern coach Hansi Flick said Saturday when asked about signing Haaland.

"But that is something for the future. He has a long-term contract at Dortmund and a lot of clubs come into play."

German daily Bild echoed Dortmund fans on Sunday by insisting: "Under no circumstances should Haaland be sold this summer, even if a sheikh is waving 100 or 200 million euros.

"Haaland is Dortmund's life insurance policy."

It could be that Haaland is not the only star to leave Dortmund this year, as Sancho has been targeted by Manchester United in previous transfer windows.

Like Haaland, fleet-footed Sancho has a market value of around 100 million euros.

According to Sport1, Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel wants to buy both Haaland and Sancho, having been given a transfer budget of 260 million euros by Blues owner Roman Abramovich.

Clubs are counting the cost of the coronavirus pandemic, but as Watzke points out, the biggest teams have wealthy owners who "find ways and means to pump money into them".

Borussia Dortmund do not expect "crazy things to happen" this summer despite a host of Europe's biggest clubs reported to be queueing up to try and sign striker Erling Braut Haaland.

Borussia Dortmund do not expect "crazy things to happen" this summer despite a host of Europe's biggest clubs reported to be queueing up to try and sign striker Erling Braut Haaland. The Norwegian became the first player to reach 10 Champions League goals in just seven games for a single club when he netted twice in Dortmund's 3-2 win at Sevilla in the last 16, first leg. The German side, who host Sevilla on Tuesday in the return game, have often relied this season on the 20-year-old Haaland. There is reportedly a release clause in his contract which applies from the summer of 2022 for around 105 million euros ($125 million). But Dortmund CEO Hans-Joachim Watzke told Sky this weekend he does not expect "crazy things to happen" in the transfer market after this season. But if and when Haaland leaves, Dortmund stand to make at least five times the 20 million euros they paid Salzburg for his services in January 2020. And Watzke did not rule out losing either Haaland or England winger Jadon Sancho if "extraordinary things happen". Haaland has scored eight goals in just five Champions League appearances this season to take his career tally in the competition to 18 in 13 games for Dortmund and Salzburg. He netted two early goals at Bayern Munich on Saturday before the club world champions fought back to claim a 4-2 win as Robert Lewandowski scored a hat-trick. Despite coming off with a cut ankle at the Allianz Arena, Haaland is expected to be fit to face Sevilla. His record of 29 goals in 28 games this season has unsurprisingly attracted the attention of Europe's top teams. "Only a maximum of 10 clubs can afford to buy him and give him the platform he wants after his time in Dortmund," Haaland's agent Mino Raiola said recently. Real Madrid and Chelsea are reportedly at the head of the queue, eager to buy Haaland out of his contract, which expires in June 2024. - Benzema replacement? - According to German magazine Sport Bild, Haaland admires Real, who are seeking a replacement for Karim Benzema, 33, whose contract expires next year, although the La Liga champions have long been linked with France star Kylian Mbappe. Manchester City, owned by Sheikh Mansour, have the financial clout to sign Haaland, with their first-choice striker Sergio Aguero out of contract in June, and plagued by injuries this season. A move to the Etihad Stadium would see the Leeds-born striker follow in the footsteps of his father Alf-Inge Haaland, who played for City from 2000-03. Even Bayern have expressed interest in Haaland as a potential replacement for Lewandowski. "Lots and lots of things are possible, you can't rule anything out," Bayern coach Hansi Flick said Saturday when asked about signing Haaland. "But that is something for the future. He has a long-term contract at Dortmund and a lot of clubs come into play." German daily Bild echoed Dortmund fans on Sunday by insisting: "Under no circumstances should Haaland be sold this summer, even if a sheikh is waving 100 or 200 million euros. "Haaland is Dortmund's life insurance policy." It could be that Haaland is not the only star to leave Dortmund this year, as Sancho has been targeted by Manchester United in previous transfer windows. Like Haaland, fleet-footed Sancho has a market value of around 100 million euros. According to Sport1, Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel wants to buy both Haaland and Sancho, having been given a transfer budget of 260 million euros by Blues owner Roman Abramovich. Clubs are counting the cost of the coronavirus pandemic, but as Watzke points out, the biggest teams have wealthy owners who "find ways and means to pump money into them".

Can Borussia Dortmund keep hold of Erling Braut Haaland?

Novak Djokovic is all set to set a new landmark in the world of tennis as world number one with the&nbsp;Serbian ace&nbsp;ready to overtake Roger Federer. Djokovic, on Monday, will hold his position as world number one for a staggering 311 weeks – a new milestone in a trophy-laden career.&nbsp;

Djokovic also has Federer and Nadal's record of winning 20 Grand Slam titles in sight after recently lifting his 18th&nbsp;major. The 33-year-old has time on his side with Federer and Nadal already fighting&nbsp;injury-plagued bodies.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Now that I've become the historic No.1, I'm relieved," said Djokovic after sweeping to a ninth Australian Open last month which guaranteed his extended stay at the top.&nbsp;

"Now, I'm going to be able to focus mainly on the Grand Slams."&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-covid-vaccine-mandate-for-nba-players-commissioner-368542" hreflang="en">No Covid vaccine mandate for NBA players: commissioner</a>

Djokovic regained the top rankings from Spanish maestro Nadal in February 2020 and finished the year-end as number one for the sixth time –&nbsp;equalling&nbsp;the record set by legendary Pete Sampras.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Djokovic made his entry to the top 100 in July 2005, weeks after Nadal lifted his first Roland Garros. The Serb was top 50 in June 2006 and top 20 in October 2006 while racing into top 10 by March 2007. He became the world number one at just 24 in July 2011 – the day after winning his first Wimbledon.&nbsp;

Djokovic also became the first man to&nbsp;shatter&nbsp;the $100 million prize money barrier, ending his career with more Slams than Federer and Nadal.&nbsp;Notably, Djokovic has won more Australian Opens than Federer and Nadal.&nbsp;His Wimbledon total stands at five to Federer's eight and Nadal's two.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serb-ace-novak-djokovic-set-to-return-on-court-at-miami-open-368432" hreflang="en">Serb ace Novak Djokovic set to return on court at Miami Open</a>

"Obviously I have in my mind to win more Grand Slam titles and to break records.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Until I retire from the tour, I will be devoting most of my attention and energy to winning the other major titles," Djokovic said.&nbsp;

Novak Djokovic is all set to set a new landmark in the world of tennis as world number one with the Serbian ace ready to overtake Roger Federer. Djokovic, on Monday, will hold his position as world number one for a staggering 311 weeks – a new milestone in a trophy-laden career.

Novak Djokovic is all set to set a new landmark in the world of tennis as world number one with the Serbian ace ready to overtake Roger Federer. Djokovic, on Monday, will hold his position as world number one for a staggering 311 weeks – a new milestone in a trophy-laden career. Djokovic also has Federer and Nadal's record of winning 20 Grand Slam titles in sight after recently lifting his 18th major. The 33-year-old has time on his side with Federer and Nadal already fighting injury-plagued bodies. "Now that I've become the historic No.1, I'm relieved," said Djokovic after sweeping to a ninth Australian Open last month which guaranteed his extended stay at the top. "Now, I'm going to be able to focus mainly on the Grand Slams." ALSO READ: No Covid vaccine mandate for NBA players: commissioner Djokovic regained the top rankings from Spanish maestro Nadal in February 2020 and finished the year-end as number one for the sixth time – equalling the record set by legendary Pete Sampras. Djokovic made his entry to the top 100 in July 2005, weeks after Nadal lifted his first Roland Garros. The Serb was top 50 in June 2006 and top 20 in October 2006 while racing into top 10 by March 2007. He became the world number one at just 24 in July 2011 – the day after winning his first Wimbledon. Djokovic also became the first man to shatter the $100 million prize money barrier, ending his career with more Slams than Federer and Nadal. Notably, Djokovic has won more Australian Opens than Federer and Nadal. His Wimbledon total stands at five to Federer's eight and Nadal's two. ALSO READ: Serb ace Novak Djokovic set to return on court at Miami Open "Obviously I have in my mind to win more Grand Slam titles and to break records. "Until I retire from the tour, I will be devoting most of my attention and energy to winning the other major titles," Djokovic said.

Novak Djokovic set to shatter Roger Federer's world number one record

Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has lavished high praise on Team India following Virat Kohli and Co's 3-1 series win against England as the 'Rawalpindi Express' termed&nbsp;visitors’&nbsp;loss&nbsp;as “embarrassing”.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Akhtar said it would have been better had England focused on their batting and crib less about the pitch. While none of the England members&nbsp;criticised&nbsp;the pitch in public, former England captains such as Michael Vaughan, Andrew Strauss and Alastair Cook were critical of the pitch produced in Chennai and Ahmedabad.&nbsp;

“All in all, it was an embarrassing defeat for the England team, and they have got a reality check in India. But they need to now learn the art of playing spin in the sub-continent well. Not sure, how are they going to lift themselves up from this humiliating defeat and motivate themselves to play better,” Shoaib Akhtar said on his&nbsp;Youtube&nbsp;channel.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-new-zealand-southampton-leads-race-to-host-icc-world-test-championship-final-368557" hreflang="en">India vs New Zealand: Southampton leads race to host ICC World Test Championship final</a>

Akhtar defended the pitches in Ahmedabad as the former Pakistan speedster asked while the visitors struggled, how come India managed to post big totals like 365 on the scoreboard?&nbsp;&nbsp;

“While many might talk about the wickets in the series, but look how India scored 365. They also played on the same wickets, where the England batsmen struggled. If Rishabh Pant and Washington Sundar can score runs, why can’t the English? With utmost ease, India has beaten England in the series, and sealed a spot in the final of the World Test Championship final,” Akhtar added.&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ind-vs-eng-rishabh-pants-magnificent-century-against-jimmy-anderson-and-co-368226" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG: Rishabh Pant's magnificent century against Jimmy Anderson and Co.</a>

Akthar praised&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;Patel highly following his heroics with the ball against England as he said that the 27-year-old might go on to become the quickest to 100 Test wickets.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Not only did he get a suitable wicket to bowl on, but he is an intelligent bowler too. He wouldn’t have given a chance to the English players when the control was in his hands, and that is what he did. If he keeps getting a few series like this, he might just become fastest bowler to 100 wickets. Having said that, England should have played him better,” he added.&nbsp;

India and England will next play five T20Is starting from March 12 before locking horns in a three-match ODI series.&nbsp;

Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has lavished high praise on Team India following Virat Kohli and Co's 3-1 series win against England as the 'Rawalpindi Express' termed visitors’ loss as “embarrassing”.

Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has lavished high praise on Team India following Virat Kohli and Co's 3-1 series win against England as the 'Rawalpindi Express' termed visitors’ loss as “embarrassing”. Akhtar said it would have been better had England focused on their batting and crib less about the pitch. While none of the England members criticised the pitch in public, former England captains such as Michael Vaughan, Andrew Strauss and Alastair Cook were critical of the pitch produced in Chennai and Ahmedabad. “All in all, it was an embarrassing defeat for the England team, and they have got a reality check in India. But they need to now learn the art of playing spin in the sub-continent well. Not sure, how are they going to lift themselves up from this humiliating defeat and motivate themselves to play better,” Shoaib Akhtar said on his Youtube channel. ALSO READ: India vs New Zealand: Southampton leads race to host ICC World Test Championship final Akhtar defended the pitches in Ahmedabad as the former Pakistan speedster asked while the visitors struggled, how come India managed to post big totals like 365 on the scoreboard? “While many might talk about the wickets in the series, but look how India scored 365. They also played on the same wickets, where the England batsmen struggled. If Rishabh Pant and Washington Sundar can score runs, why can’t the English? With utmost ease, India has beaten England in the series, and sealed a spot in the final of the World Test Championship final,” Akhtar added. IN PICS | IND vs ENG: Rishabh Pant's magnificent century against Jimmy Anderson and Co. Akthar praised Axar Patel highly following his heroics with the ball against England as he said that the 27-year-old might go on to become the quickest to 100 Test wickets. “Not only did he get a suitable wicket to bowl on, but he is an intelligent bowler too. He wouldn’t have given a chance to the English players when the control was in his hands, and that is what he did. If he keeps getting a few series like this, he might just become fastest bowler to 100 wickets. Having said that, England should have played him better,” he added. India and England will next play five T20Is starting from March 12 before locking horns in a three-match ODI series.

'Embarrassing': Shoaib Akhtar gives his verdict on England's 3-1 series defeat against India

Leicester moved into second in the Premier League by coming from behind to beat Brighton 2-1 on Saturday, while Arsenal's top-four chances now look forlorn after being held 1-1 by Burnley.

Depleted by a series of injuries to key players, Leicester have looked fatigued in recent weeks and fell behind after 10 minutes when Adam Lallana swept home his first Brighton goal.

The Seagulls have made a habit of dominating games without making it count and once again paid for failing to build on their lead as Lallana struck the woodwork and Neal Maupay had a goal ruled out for offside.

Leicester looked lifeless for the first 45 minutes without James Maddison and Harvey Barnes, but they bounced back after the break for a first win in four games.

"First half we weren't good enough, we didn't press the game well enough and didn't pass it well," said Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers.

"Second half I thought we were brilliant. We stopped them playing, then we showed our quality. By the end we deserved to win."

Youri Tielemans's brilliant pass unlocked the home defence for Kelechi Iheanacho to coolly dink home the equaliser on 62 minutes.

Kasper Schmeichel then denied Lallana again with a fine save before a goalkeeping error at the other end handed Rodgers's men a vital victory.

Robert Sanchez flapped at Marc Albrighton's corner and Daniel Amartey headed into the unguarded net.

Leicester now have a seven-point cushion over fifth-placed Everton as they aim to not make the same mistake as last season when they crashed out of the top four at the business end of the campaign.

A fifth game without a win leaves Brighton still just three points above the relegation zone.

<h2>- 'Anything can happen' -</h2>

Arsenal's best hope of a return to the Champions League for the first time in five years now lies in winning the Europa League after letting two more points slip away at Turf Moor.

Mikel Arteta's men remain in 10th, nine points adrift of the top four and with that gap certain to grow on Sunday when fourth plays fifth as Chelsea take on Everton.

Arsenal could not have asked for a better start as Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang took advantage of some sluggish defending and a slow reaction from England goalkeeper Nick Pope to squeeze home his 14th goal of the season after just six minutes.

Granit Xhaka was stupidly sent off when the sides last met in December in the midst of a run of one win in 10 games that gave Arsenal a mountain to climb to get back in the race for a European place.

The Swiss midfielder had another afternoon to forget as six minutes before half-time he inexplicably fired the ball into the midriff of Chris Wood and the ball ricocheted into the net off the New Zealand striker.

"If you are giving something to the opponent anything can happen," said Arteta. "This is where we have the biggest margin for improvement."

<h2>- Saints sigh of relief -</h2>

Southampton ended a nine-game winless run by beating bottom-of-the-table Sheffield United 2-0 to move 10 points clear of the relegation zone.

Ralph Hasenhuttl's men topped the table in November, but a run of one point from a possible 27 had them looking over their shoulders.

However, the Championship-bound Blades proved the perfect opponents for Southampton as James Ward-Prowse's penalty and Che Adams's first goal in 17 games earned a long-awaited win.

Aston Villa's unexpected challenge for the top four is also faltering after a 0-0 draw with Wolves left them seven points adrift of Chelsea in ninth.

Villa again lacked the creativity of injured captain Jack Grealish as it was Wolves who twice came closest to a winner through their skipper Conor Coady.

Leicester moved into second in the Premier League by coming from behind to beat Brighton 2-1 on Saturday, while Arsenal's top-four chances now look forlorn after being held 1-1 by Burnley.

Leicester moved into second in the Premier League by coming from behind to beat Brighton 2-1 on Saturday, while Arsenal's top-four chances now look forlorn after being held 1-1 by Burnley. Depleted by a series of injuries to key players, Leicester have looked fatigued in recent weeks and fell behind after 10 minutes when Adam Lallana swept home his first Brighton goal. The Seagulls have made a habit of dominating games without making it count and once again paid for failing to build on their lead as Lallana struck the woodwork and Neal Maupay had a goal ruled out for offside. Leicester looked lifeless for the first 45 minutes without James Maddison and Harvey Barnes, but they bounced back after the break for a first win in four games. "First half we weren't good enough, we didn't press the game well enough and didn't pass it well," said Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers. "Second half I thought we were brilliant. We stopped them playing, then we showed our quality. By the end we deserved to win." Youri Tielemans's brilliant pass unlocked the home defence for Kelechi Iheanacho to coolly dink home the equaliser on 62 minutes. Kasper Schmeichel then denied Lallana again with a fine save before a goalkeeping error at the other end handed Rodgers's men a vital victory. Robert Sanchez flapped at Marc Albrighton's corner and Daniel Amartey headed into the unguarded net. Leicester now have a seven-point cushion over fifth-placed Everton as they aim to not make the same mistake as last season when they crashed out of the top four at the business end of the campaign. A fifth game without a win leaves Brighton still just three points above the relegation zone. - 'Anything can happen' - Arsenal's best hope of a return to the Champions League for the first time in five years now lies in winning the Europa League after letting two more points slip away at Turf Moor. Mikel Arteta's men remain in 10th, nine points adrift of the top four and with that gap certain to grow on Sunday when fourth plays fifth as Chelsea take on Everton. Arsenal could not have asked for a better start as Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang took advantage of some sluggish defending and a slow reaction from England goalkeeper Nick Pope to squeeze home his 14th goal of the season after just six minutes. Granit Xhaka was stupidly sent off when the sides last met in December in the midst of a run of one win in 10 games that gave Arsenal a mountain to climb to get back in the race for a European place. The Swiss midfielder had another afternoon to forget as six minutes before half-time he inexplicably fired the ball into the midriff of Chris Wood and the ball ricocheted into the net off the New Zealand striker. "If you are giving something to the opponent anything can happen," said Arteta. "This is where we have the biggest margin for improvement." - Saints sigh of relief - Southampton ended a nine-game winless run by beating bottom-of-the-table Sheffield United 2-0 to move 10 points clear of the relegation zone. Ralph Hasenhuttl's men topped the table in November, but a run of one point from a possible 27 had them looking over their shoulders. However, the Championship-bound Blades proved the perfect opponents for Southampton as James Ward-Prowse's penalty and Che Adams's first goal in 17 games earned a long-awaited win. Aston Villa's unexpected challenge for the top four is also faltering after a 0-0 draw with Wolves left them seven points adrift of Chelsea in ninth. Villa again lacked the creativity of injured captain Jack Grealish as it was Wolves who twice came closest to a winner through their skipper Conor Coady.

Leicester bounce back to go second, Xhaka shocker costs Arsenal

With the finalists of the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship&nbsp;(WTC)&nbsp;decided after India's thumping 3-1 series win over England, the&nbsp;Virat Kohli-led outfit will be facing New Zealand in the summit clash, scheduled to be played from June 18 to 22.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While the International Cricket Council (ICC) on Saturday said that India and New Zealand will be locking horns in the final of the ICC World Test Championship, the venue of the match is yet to be decided. The Lord's was slated to host the WTC final but the iconic ground is reportedly out of the race with Ageas Bowl in Southampton,&nbsp;Edgbaston&nbsp;in Birmingham and&nbsp;Old Trafford in Manchester three&nbsp;grounds battling to host the grand finale, a report in&nbsp;Cricbuzz&nbsp;said that the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has checked the readiness of the Ageas Bowl in Southampton with the stadium&nbsp;front-runner to host the final of ICC World Test Championship.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTC21?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTC21</a> finalists 🙌 <a href="https://t.co/OWBBifgbvx">pic.twitter.com/OWBBifgbvx</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1368161982189305856?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The Ageas Bowl in Southampton boasts a five-star hotel attached to the stadium and provides plenty of logistical and operational convenience in times of bio-secure bubbles. Southampton had hosted matches between England and West Indies, and Pakistan.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

"I can't give much information apart from the fact that there has been discussion about it," confirmed Southampton cricket boss Rod&nbsp;Bransgrove&nbsp;to&nbsp;Cricbuzz&nbsp;about an approach to stage the final at the Ageas Bowl. "I am the chairman of Southampton and I can say we have been asked to stage it and also inquired if Southampton is available. I don't know if anything has been finally decided as yet,"&nbsp;Bransgrove said.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
India 🤜🤛 New Zealand 
 
The inaugural ICC World Test Championship finalists! 
 
The wait will be unbearable. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTC21?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTC21</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> <a href="https://t.co/X3KcNrUTJ1">pic.twitter.com/X3KcNrUTJ1</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1368148470649876480?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

However, the spokesman for the Marylebone Cricket Club, which runs the Lord's ground, remained non-committal.&nbsp;

"The MCC has been working with the ICC and the ECB in relation to planning for the World Test Championship Final. As yet, no definitive decision has been taken in relation to the location of the final. This will be announced by the ICC in due course," the spokesman for the MCC told&nbsp;Cricbuzz.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The ICC is expected to announce the venue soon and the world body is also expected to reveal playing conditions for the inaugural final of WTC along with a reserve day.&nbsp;

With the finalists of the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship (WTC) decided after India's thumping 3-1 series win over England, the Virat Kohli-led outfit will be facing New Zealand in the summit clash, scheduled to be played from June 18 to 22.

With the finalists of the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship (WTC) decided after India's thumping 3-1 series win over England, the Virat Kohli-led outfit will be facing New Zealand in the summit clash, scheduled to be played from June 18 to 22. While the International Cricket Council (ICC) on Saturday said that India and New Zealand will be locking horns in the final of the ICC World Test Championship, the venue of the match is yet to be decided. The Lord's was slated to host the WTC final but the iconic ground is reportedly out of the race with Ageas Bowl in Southampton, Edgbaston in Birmingham and Old Trafford in Manchester three grounds battling to host the grand finale, a report in Cricbuzz said that the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has checked the readiness of the Ageas Bowl in Southampton with the stadium front-runner to host the final of ICC World Test Championship. The #WTC21 finalists 🙌 pic.twitter.com/OWBBifgbvx — ICC (@ICC) March 6, 2021 × The Ageas Bowl in Southampton boasts a five-star hotel attached to the stadium and provides plenty of logistical and operational convenience in times of bio-secure bubbles. Southampton had hosted matches between England and West Indies, and Pakistan. "I can't give much information apart from the fact that there has been discussion about it," confirmed Southampton cricket boss Rod Bransgrove to Cricbuzz about an approach to stage the final at the Ageas Bowl. "I am the chairman of Southampton and I can say we have been asked to stage it and also inquired if Southampton is available. I don't know if anything has been finally decided as yet," Bransgrove said. India 🤜🤛 New Zealand The inaugural ICC World Test Championship finalists! The wait will be unbearable. #WTC21 | #INDvENG pic.twitter.com/X3KcNrUTJ1 — ICC (@ICC) March 6, 2021 × However, the spokesman for the Marylebone Cricket Club, which runs the Lord's ground, remained non-committal. "The MCC has been working with the ICC and the ECB in relation to planning for the World Test Championship Final. As yet, no definitive decision has been taken in relation to the location of the final. This will be announced by the ICC in due course," the spokesman for the MCC told Cricbuzz. The ICC is expected to announce the venue soon and the world body is also expected to reveal playing conditions for the inaugural final of WTC along with a reserve day.

India vs New Zealand: Southampton leads race to host ICC World Test Championship final

Manchester City have history in their sights as the runaway leaders bid to take a huge step towards the Premier League title in Sunday's showdown with fading challengers Manchester United.

City are 14 points clear of United with 11 games left and victory in the derby would effectively end their second placed rivals' faint hopes of catching them.

Pep Guardiola's side have been so dominant since the end of last year that it is the landmarks they can shatter on the way to a third title in four seasons that now hold the greatest interest.

They are unbeaten in 28 games and will set a new club record if they avoid defeat this weekend.

That could be the first of many milestones to fall for City, who are on an English top-flight record run of 21 successive wins in all competitions.

The only teams from the top five European leagues ever to record longer winning streaks in all competitions are Bayern Munich (23) and Real Madrid (22).

City can edge closer to Bayern's tally if they clinch a 16th successive Premier League victory this weekend, which would also take them to the brink of their own record of 18 consecutive Premier League wins, a mark shared with Liverpool.

Guardiola's team are six wins short of equalling the world record for consecutive victories in all competitions by a top-flight side -- set by Welsh team The New Saints in 2016.

City's incredible run is all the more remarkable given their troubled start to the season.

When they were held to a 0-0 draw at United in December, they were a point behind their rivals in ninth place and the death knell was ringing for their title hopes.

But, aided by some clever tactical tweaks from Guardiola, including the use of full-backs Joao Cancelo and Kyle Walker as auxiliary attackers, they have been perfect since then.

City have not trailed in a league fixture for 19 games despite being without the injured Sergio Aguero and Kevin De Bruyne for long periods.

While United's inconsistencies and the collapse of champions Liverpool have contributed to City's surge to the top, the leaders' supremacy has not been restricted to the league.

<h2>- 'Something special' -</h2>

An unprecedented quadruple is within City's reach, but Guardiola is determined to keep his players from getting complacent.

"To do what we have done in these four years, still winning, these guys have something special like my time at Barcelona and Bayern Munich," he said.

"We are in a really good position. I did not expect to be in this position two or three months ago but we need to be calm."

United have stumbled recently, drawing four of their past five league games, and their title ambitions faded into the south London fog during Wednesday's goalless stalemate at Crystal Palace.

Even so, United are unbeaten in their past 21 away league games and Guardiola is well aware of the threat they could pose.

United are the only side in any of the top five European leagues yet to lose an away league match this season, while Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has won on both of his visits to the Etihad since taking charge in 2019.

"I know how difficult United are," said Guardiola. "More than one year not losing away and they have good results at the Etihad."

Realistically United, who are five points clear of fifth-placed Everton, have to focus on qualifying for the Champions League, either via a top-four finish or winning the Europa League.&nbsp;

"Our focus is just on this one game and not where we're going to end up," Solskjaer said.

"They're ahead of us by a fair distance at the moment, so Sunday is a chance to test ourselves against a very good team."

<h2>Fixtures (GMT)</h2>

Saturday

Burnley v Arsenal (1230), Sheffield United v Southampton (1500), Aston Villa v Wolves (1730), Brighton v Leicester (2000)

Sunday

West Brom v Newcastle (1200), Liverpool v Fulham (1400), Manchester City v Manchester United (1630), Tottenham v Crystal Palace (1915)

Monday

Chelsea v Everton (1800), West Ham v Leeds (2000)

Manchester City have history in their sights as the runaway leaders bid to take a huge step towards the Premier League title in Sunday's showdown with fading challengers Manchester United.

Manchester City have history in their sights as the runaway leaders bid to take a huge step towards the Premier League title in Sunday's showdown with fading challengers Manchester United. City are 14 points clear of United with 11 games left and victory in the derby would effectively end their second placed rivals' faint hopes of catching them. Pep Guardiola's side have been so dominant since the end of last year that it is the landmarks they can shatter on the way to a third title in four seasons that now hold the greatest interest. They are unbeaten in 28 games and will set a new club record if they avoid defeat this weekend. That could be the first of many milestones to fall for City, who are on an English top-flight record run of 21 successive wins in all competitions. The only teams from the top five European leagues ever to record longer winning streaks in all competitions are Bayern Munich (23) and Real Madrid (22). City can edge closer to Bayern's tally if they clinch a 16th successive Premier League victory this weekend, which would also take them to the brink of their own record of 18 consecutive Premier League wins, a mark shared with Liverpool. Guardiola's team are six wins short of equalling the world record for consecutive victories in all competitions by a top-flight side -- set by Welsh team The New Saints in 2016. City's incredible run is all the more remarkable given their troubled start to the season. When they were held to a 0-0 draw at United in December, they were a point behind their rivals in ninth place and the death knell was ringing for their title hopes. But, aided by some clever tactical tweaks from Guardiola, including the use of full-backs Joao Cancelo and Kyle Walker as auxiliary attackers, they have been perfect since then. City have not trailed in a league fixture for 19 games despite being without the injured Sergio Aguero and Kevin De Bruyne for long periods. While United's inconsistencies and the collapse of champions Liverpool have contributed to City's surge to the top, the leaders' supremacy has not been restricted to the league. - 'Something special' - An unprecedented quadruple is within City's reach, but Guardiola is determined to keep his players from getting complacent. "To do what we have done in these four years, still winning, these guys have something special like my time at Barcelona and Bayern Munich," he said. "We are in a really good position. I did not expect to be in this position two or three months ago but we need to be calm." United have stumbled recently, drawing four of their past five league games, and their title ambitions faded into the south London fog during Wednesday's goalless stalemate at Crystal Palace. Even so, United are unbeaten in their past 21 away league games and Guardiola is well aware of the threat they could pose. United are the only side in any of the top five European leagues yet to lose an away league match this season, while Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has won on both of his visits to the Etihad since taking charge in 2019. "I know how difficult United are," said Guardiola. "More than one year not losing away and they have good results at the Etihad." Realistically United, who are five points clear of fifth-placed Everton, have to focus on qualifying for the Champions League, either via a top-four finish or winning the Europa League. "Our focus is just on this one game and not where we're going to end up," Solskjaer said. "They're ahead of us by a fair distance at the moment, so Sunday is a chance to test ourselves against a very good team." Fixtures (GMT) Saturday Burnley v Arsenal (1230), Sheffield United v Southampton (1500), Aston Villa v Wolves (1730), Brighton v Leicester (2000) Sunday West Brom v Newcastle (1200), Liverpool v Fulham (1400), Manchester City v Manchester United (1630), Tottenham v Crystal Palace (1915) Monday Chelsea v Everton (1800), West Ham v Leeds (2000)

Man City face Man Utd test on march towards history

Robert Lewandowski scored a hat-trick to leave him on 31 Bundesliga goals this season and seal Bayern Munich's 4-2 comeback home win over Borussia Dortmund on Saturday in Germany's 'Klassiker'.

Dortmund raced into a 2-0 lead as Erling Braut Haaland netted twice in the first nine minutes behind closed doors at the Allianz Arena.

However Lewandowksi then struck twice, the second from the penalty spot, to haul Bayern level before the break.

Leon Goretzka put Bayern ahead for the first time with two minutes left before Lewandowski completed his hat-trick on 90 minutes.

"The quality is certainly there, that's our DNA," said Thomas Mueller of Bayern's fightback.

The win leaves Bayern two points clear of RB Leipzig at the top of the table.

"We shook ourselves up at 2-0 down and deserved to win because we were the dominant team for (the last) 60 minutes," said Bayern coach Hansi Flick.

Bayern have won the last five meetings between the clubs.

<h2>- 'Not good enough' -</h2>

"We weren't good enough. We started well, but didn't play good enough football. We should have been more brave," said Dortmund midfielder Emre Can.

The match delivered on its billing as the battle of the Bundesliga's star strikers.

Haaland scored with just two minutes gone when his shot clipped the heel of Jerome Boateng.

Bayern were reeling after nine minutes when Thorgan Hazard flicked the ball back inside for Haaland to again smash the ball home.

Dortmund could have been 3-0 up on 25 minutes but Thomas Meunier squandered the chance to shoot.

A minute later, Bayern pulled a goal back when Leroy Sane squared the ball for Lewandowski to score.

Bayern went into the break level when Mahmoud Dahoud brought down Kingsley Coman in the area and Lewandowski converted the penalty.

After a frantic first-half, the tempo dropped in the second as both teams suffered key injuries.&nbsp;

"We started great and ended very badly," admitted Dortmund coach Edin Terzic.

Haaland came off after an hour gone with a cut on the back of his ankle.

With ten minutes left, Boateng had to be helped off in clear discomfort after twisting his knee.

Dortmund were left fuming for what captain Marco Reus claimed was a clear foul on Can late on.

"It was a clear foul - if that had been against Bayern, it would have been given," fumed Marco Reus.

Bayern settled the matter when Goretzka pinged his shot in off the post before Lewandowski completed his hat-trick with an outstanding low drive.

With ten games left, Lewandowski threatens to break Gerd Mueller's all-time record of 40 Bundesliga goals in the 1971/72 season.

<h2>- Leipzig romp -</h2>

Earlier RB Leipzig briefly climbed top of the table with a 3-0 romp at Freiburg thanks to goals by Christopher Nkunku, Alexander Sorloth and Emil Forsberg.&nbsp;

Leipzig impressed in their final tune-up before facing Liverpool in Budapest next Wednesday in the last 16 of the Champions League having lost the first leg 2-0.

Leipzig coach Julian Nagelsmann said goal-scoring left-back Angelino will "probably" miss the Liverpool game with a leg injury. &nbsp;

Third-placed Wolfsburg are now ten points adrift of Bayern having stumbled to a 2-1 defeat at mid-table Hoffenheim whose striker Andrej Kramaric scored the winning goal just before half-time.

Eintracht Frankfurt stay fourth after Filip Kostic equalised for the home team in a 1-1 draw against Stuttgart.&nbsp;

A late goal by Leverkusen striker Patrik Schick sealed their 1-0 win at Moenchengladbach, who drop to 10th as their miserable run continues.

Gladbach have now lost all fives games since it was announced head coach Marco Rose will take charge of Dortmund next season.

The away win eases the pressure on Leverkusen coach Peter Bosz. His fifth-placed side had failed to win any of their five previous games in all competitions.&nbsp;

Dodi Lukebakio converted a late penalty to seal Hertha Berlin's 2-1 home win over Augsburg.

It was Hertha's first victory in 10 games which pulled them up to 14th and away from the relegation fight.

Robert Lewandowski scored a hat-trick to leave him on 31 Bundesliga goals this season and seal Bayern Munich's 4-2 comeback home win over Borussia Dortmund on Saturday in Germany's 'Klassiker'.

Robert Lewandowski scored a hat-trick to leave him on 31 Bundesliga goals this season and seal Bayern Munich's 4-2 comeback home win over Borussia Dortmund on Saturday in Germany's 'Klassiker'. Dortmund raced into a 2-0 lead as Erling Braut Haaland netted twice in the first nine minutes behind closed doors at the Allianz Arena. However Lewandowksi then struck twice, the second from the penalty spot, to haul Bayern level before the break. Leon Goretzka put Bayern ahead for the first time with two minutes left before Lewandowski completed his hat-trick on 90 minutes. "The quality is certainly there, that's our DNA," said Thomas Mueller of Bayern's fightback. The win leaves Bayern two points clear of RB Leipzig at the top of the table. "We shook ourselves up at 2-0 down and deserved to win because we were the dominant team for (the last) 60 minutes," said Bayern coach Hansi Flick. Bayern have won the last five meetings between the clubs. - 'Not good enough' - "We weren't good enough. We started well, but didn't play good enough football. We should have been more brave," said Dortmund midfielder Emre Can. The match delivered on its billing as the battle of the Bundesliga's star strikers. Haaland scored with just two minutes gone when his shot clipped the heel of Jerome Boateng. Bayern were reeling after nine minutes when Thorgan Hazard flicked the ball back inside for Haaland to again smash the ball home. Dortmund could have been 3-0 up on 25 minutes but Thomas Meunier squandered the chance to shoot. A minute later, Bayern pulled a goal back when Leroy Sane squared the ball for Lewandowski to score. Bayern went into the break level when Mahmoud Dahoud brought down Kingsley Coman in the area and Lewandowski converted the penalty. After a frantic first-half, the tempo dropped in the second as both teams suffered key injuries. "We started great and ended very badly," admitted Dortmund coach Edin Terzic. Haaland came off after an hour gone with a cut on the back of his ankle. With ten minutes left, Boateng had to be helped off in clear discomfort after twisting his knee. Dortmund were left fuming for what captain Marco Reus claimed was a clear foul on Can late on. "It was a clear foul - if that had been against Bayern, it would have been given," fumed Marco Reus. Bayern settled the matter when Goretzka pinged his shot in off the post before Lewandowski completed his hat-trick with an outstanding low drive. With ten games left, Lewandowski threatens to break Gerd Mueller's all-time record of 40 Bundesliga goals in the 1971/72 season. - Leipzig romp - Earlier RB Leipzig briefly climbed top of the table with a 3-0 romp at Freiburg thanks to goals by Christopher Nkunku, Alexander Sorloth and Emil Forsberg. Leipzig impressed in their final tune-up before facing Liverpool in Budapest next Wednesday in the last 16 of the Champions League having lost the first leg 2-0. Leipzig coach Julian Nagelsmann said goal-scoring left-back Angelino will "probably" miss the Liverpool game with a leg injury. Third-placed Wolfsburg are now ten points adrift of Bayern having stumbled to a 2-1 defeat at mid-table Hoffenheim whose striker Andrej Kramaric scored the winning goal just before half-time. Eintracht Frankfurt stay fourth after Filip Kostic equalised for the home team in a 1-1 draw against Stuttgart. A late goal by Leverkusen striker Patrik Schick sealed their 1-0 win at Moenchengladbach, who drop to 10th as their miserable run continues. Gladbach have now lost all fives games since it was announced head coach Marco Rose will take charge of Dortmund next season. The away win eases the pressure on Leverkusen coach Peter Bosz. His fifth-placed side had failed to win any of their five previous games in all competitions. Dodi Lukebakio converted a late penalty to seal Hertha Berlin's 2-1 home win over Augsburg. It was Hertha's first victory in 10 games which pulled them up to 14th and away from the relegation fight.

Lewandowski hat-trick tops Haaland double as Bayern beat Dortmund

sports-news

Sports News, News on Sports News, stories on Sports News, articles on Sports News, Sports News stories at Wion, Sports News news, Sports News latest news

sports news