Barcelona cranked up the pressure on Sunday's Madrid derby by beating Osasuna 2-0 on Saturday night to edge two points behind leaders Atletico Madrid in La Liga.&nbsp;

Lionel Messi set up both goals in Pamplona as Jordi Alba hammered home in the first half before the 18-year-old Ilaix Moriba came off the bench to curl in an impressive shot late in the second.&nbsp;

"Thankfully Leo gave me the pass and I don't know how I cut in and shot with my left foot, I'm just glad it went in," Ilaix said. "I will never forget it, I will take that goal to my grave."

Ilaix's strike was his first goal in La Liga and another breakthrough moment for a Barca youngster, 24 hours before the club hopes a brighter future can begin under a new president.&nbsp;

Before the winner of the elections -- contested by Joan Laporta, Victor Font and Toni Freixa -- is confirmed on Sunday night, Atletico will face Real Madrid at the Wanda Metropolitano, where Barcelona will surely be hoping for anything other than a home win.&nbsp;

A few weeks ago, Ronald Koeman's side looked too far adrift in the title race but 10 victories out of 11 have shot them back into contention, even if Atletico remain in the driving seat with two games in hand.&nbsp;

"Any result is good for us," said Koeman.

After coming from two goals down to beat Sevilla after extra-time in the semi-final of the Copa del Rey on Wednesday, Barcelona now have one trophy, and perhaps even a domestic double, in their sights.&nbsp;

Their success in recent months has owed much to a talented crop of youngsters, with Ilaix -- a dynamic but technically gifted midfielder -- the latest to emerge.

"Every time he comes into the team he gives the team something extra," said Koeman. "Because of his personality, his energy, most of all he's good with the ball, and physically he's a strong boy. He's gaining ground and showing he can be more with the first team."

Barca faced some nervy moments early on as Jonathan Calleri tried an ambitious lob from distance before Ruben Garcia's curler from the edge of the area required an athletic save from Marc-Andre ter Stegen.&nbsp;

Messi shot wide and then set up the opener, drifting in from the right and spotting the scuttling Alba racing in behind on the opposite side. Messi clipped a pass through three Osasuna defenders for Alba to collect and he lashed it high and in from the angle.&nbsp;

Garcia deserved an equaliser soon after for his first touch alone, a sumptuous cushioning of a long ball forward, but Ter Stegen was again there to deny the finish.&nbsp;

There was more control about the second half but Barcelona needed a second to make it comfortable and substitute Ilaix seized his moment, shaping to shoot with his right before coolly rolling onto his left and whipping his shot into the corner.&nbsp;

While Barcelona sustained momentum from their midweek victory in the cup, Sevilla failed to bounce back, instead sinking to another loss away at Elche earlier on Saturday.

Raul Guti and Guido Carrillo sealed a crucial 2-1 win for Elche, with Luuk de Jong adding a late consolation for Sevilla, who have now lost three consecutive matches in eight days.

They sit six points ahead of Real Sociedad in fifth. Elche climb to 17th, two points above the bottom three.

Barcelona cranked up the pressure on Sunday's Madrid derby by beating Osasuna 2-0 on Saturday night to edge two points behind leaders Atletico Madrid in La Liga.

Barcelona cranked up the pressure on Sunday's Madrid derby by beating Osasuna 2-0 on Saturday night to edge two points behind leaders Atletico Madrid in La Liga. Lionel Messi set up both goals in Pamplona as Jordi Alba hammered home in the first half before the 18-year-old Ilaix Moriba came off the bench to curl in an impressive shot late in the second. "Thankfully Leo gave me the pass and I don't know how I cut in and shot with my left foot, I'm just glad it went in," Ilaix said. "I will never forget it, I will take that goal to my grave." Ilaix's strike was his first goal in La Liga and another breakthrough moment for a Barca youngster, 24 hours before the club hopes a brighter future can begin under a new president. Before the winner of the elections -- contested by Joan Laporta, Victor Font and Toni Freixa -- is confirmed on Sunday night, Atletico will face Real Madrid at the Wanda Metropolitano, where Barcelona will surely be hoping for anything other than a home win. A few weeks ago, Ronald Koeman's side looked too far adrift in the title race but 10 victories out of 11 have shot them back into contention, even if Atletico remain in the driving seat with two games in hand. "Any result is good for us," said Koeman. After coming from two goals down to beat Sevilla after extra-time in the semi-final of the Copa del Rey on Wednesday, Barcelona now have one trophy, and perhaps even a domestic double, in their sights. Their success in recent months has owed much to a talented crop of youngsters, with Ilaix -- a dynamic but technically gifted midfielder -- the latest to emerge. "Every time he comes into the team he gives the team something extra," said Koeman. "Because of his personality, his energy, most of all he's good with the ball, and physically he's a strong boy. He's gaining ground and showing he can be more with the first team." Barca faced some nervy moments early on as Jonathan Calleri tried an ambitious lob from distance before Ruben Garcia's curler from the edge of the area required an athletic save from Marc-Andre ter Stegen. Messi shot wide and then set up the opener, drifting in from the right and spotting the scuttling Alba racing in behind on the opposite side. Messi clipped a pass through three Osasuna defenders for Alba to collect and he lashed it high and in from the angle. Garcia deserved an equaliser soon after for his first touch alone, a sumptuous cushioning of a long ball forward, but Ter Stegen was again there to deny the finish. There was more control about the second half but Barcelona needed a second to make it comfortable and substitute Ilaix seized his moment, shaping to shoot with his right before coolly rolling onto his left and whipping his shot into the corner. While Barcelona sustained momentum from their midweek victory in the cup, Sevilla failed to bounce back, instead sinking to another loss away at Elche earlier on Saturday. Raul Guti and Guido Carrillo sealed a crucial 2-1 win for Elche, with Luuk de Jong adding a late consolation for Sevilla, who have now lost three consecutive matches in eight days. They sit six points ahead of Real Sociedad in fifth. Elche climb to 17th, two points above the bottom three.

Barcelona raise the stakes in Madrid derby after Osasuna win

NBA commissioner Adam Silver says the league won't require players to be vaccinated against Covid-19, but if progress continues against the virus the league can play a normal schedule in "relatively full" arenas next season.

"Roughly half of our teams have fans in their arenas right now and if vaccines continue on the pace they are, and they continue to be as effective as they have been against the virus and its variants, we're hopeful that we'll have relatively full arenas next season as well," Silver said Saturday in a virtual press conference on the eve of the All-Star Game in Atlanta, Georgia.

Silver said there are no plans for any overseas exhibition or regular-season games in the upcoming campaign, but he remains confident teams will be able to play a full 82-game schedule starting next October and ending in June.

"I'm fairly optimistic, at this point, that we will be able to start on time," Silver said.

The commissioner said he believed it was a "personal decision" whether to be vaccinated "that players need to make just like everyone in our communities needs to make."

He said the league and players association were working together to provide players with information on vaccines "and also encouraging them to seek out information on their own" from personal physicians or other advisers.

Silver said that, to his knowledge, no NBA players had yet been vaccinated, although some coaches and other staff who qualified to be innoculated because of age or other reasons had been.

Even so, Silver said, the league's coronavirus protocols including mask-wearing, social distancing and rigorous contact tracing and quarantining, had allowed the season to proceed with only "a relatively small percentage of games" having to be postponed.

The coronavirus pandemic shut down the NBA in March of 2020, the league eventually cancelling 171 games before resuming in a quarantine bubble in Orlando, Florida.

After the Los Angeles Lakers captured the title in September, the new season tipped off on December 22 with each team scheduled to play 72 games.

Silver said the financial hit had been and continues to be "significant" and was being borne by both owners and players.

"Last season and this season has required a significant investment on the part of the team owners," Silver said. "They accept that. Players will end up taking a reduction in salary this season because they are partners with the league and teams on revenue.

"League executives, team executives have all taken haircuts on their salary," he said.

"But I think when we all step back, we all feel very fortunate to be working under these circumstances and my sense is the players feel the same way."

And despite his optimism, Silver sounded a cautionary note when discussing progress made in containing coronavirus.

"One thing we've all come to understand over the last year is that the virus is firmly in charge," Silver said.

NBA commissioner Adam Silver says the league won't require players to be vaccinated against Covid-19, but if progress continues against the virus the league can play a normal schedule in "relatively full" arenas next season.

NBA commissioner Adam Silver says the league won't require players to be vaccinated against Covid-19, but if progress continues against the virus the league can play a normal schedule in "relatively full" arenas next season. "Roughly half of our teams have fans in their arenas right now and if vaccines continue on the pace they are, and they continue to be as effective as they have been against the virus and its variants, we're hopeful that we'll have relatively full arenas next season as well," Silver said Saturday in a virtual press conference on the eve of the All-Star Game in Atlanta, Georgia. Silver said there are no plans for any overseas exhibition or regular-season games in the upcoming campaign, but he remains confident teams will be able to play a full 82-game schedule starting next October and ending in June. "I'm fairly optimistic, at this point, that we will be able to start on time," Silver said. The commissioner said he believed it was a "personal decision" whether to be vaccinated "that players need to make just like everyone in our communities needs to make." He said the league and players association were working together to provide players with information on vaccines "and also encouraging them to seek out information on their own" from personal physicians or other advisers. Silver said that, to his knowledge, no NBA players had yet been vaccinated, although some coaches and other staff who qualified to be innoculated because of age or other reasons had been. Even so, Silver said, the league's coronavirus protocols including mask-wearing, social distancing and rigorous contact tracing and quarantining, had allowed the season to proceed with only "a relatively small percentage of games" having to be postponed. The coronavirus pandemic shut down the NBA in March of 2020, the league eventually cancelling 171 games before resuming in a quarantine bubble in Orlando, Florida. After the Los Angeles Lakers captured the title in September, the new season tipped off on December 22 with each team scheduled to play 72 games. Silver said the financial hit had been and continues to be "significant" and was being borne by both owners and players. "Last season and this season has required a significant investment on the part of the team owners," Silver said. "They accept that. Players will end up taking a reduction in salary this season because they are partners with the league and teams on revenue. "League executives, team executives have all taken haircuts on their salary," he said. "But I think when we all step back, we all feel very fortunate to be working under these circumstances and my sense is the players feel the same way." And despite his optimism, Silver sounded a cautionary note when discussing progress made in containing coronavirus. "One thing we've all come to understand over the last year is that the virus is firmly in charge," Silver said.

No Covid vaccine mandate for NBA players: commissioner

A century opening stand by Martin Guptill and Devon Conway saw New Zealand clinch their Twenty20 series against Australia in Wellington on Sunday after the tourists faltered in the face of an experimental spin attack.

Set a target of 143 for victory in the fifth and final match, New Zealand claimed victory by seven wickets and took the series 3-2 with an emphatic 27 balls to spare.

After being comprehensively outplayed in games three and four when batting second, New Zealand captain Kane Williamson knew he had to be innovative to win the series after he lost the toss and was told to bowl first.

He put an emphasis on spin with his slow bowlers sending down 12 overs, the most for New Zealand in a Twenty20 match, and they took four of the eight wickets.

"We just wanted to put out a much-improved performance from the last two and it was great that we could show some signs of improvement," Williamson said.

"Clearly, the slower bowlers on that wicket were a little bit trickier."

Of the spin brigade, Ish Sodhi finished with 3-24 off his four overs, Hong Kong-born Mark Chapman, bowling for the first time for New Zealand, took 1-9 off two and Mitchell Santner conceded only 21 runs from his four.

Guptill, who had been out of form going into the series, silenced his critics with a masterful 71, including seven fours and four sixes, while Conway contributed 36 with the pair putting on 106 for the first wicket.

New Zealand stumbled slightly when Kane Williamson went first ball but a Guptill single denied Riley Meredith the hat-trick.

Glenn Phillips blasted New Zealand home with five fours and two sixes to be unbeaten on 34.

Although a Covid-19 outbreak in Auckland forced the last three matches to be played on the same wicket in Wellington in the space of five days, Australian captain Aaron Finch said it was his side's batting and not a worn pitch that cost the tourists.

"We probably weren't aggressive enough with the bat, myself led that at the top," he said.

"We didnt get enough runs, we kept losing wickets at regular intervals. I thought (the pitch) played pretty well and Mitch Santner bowled beautifully with the new ball and didn't allow us to get away to a flyer."

Matthew Wade&nbsp;top scored for the tourists with 44 while Finch contributed 36 and Marcus Stoinis made 24.

A century opening stand by Martin Guptill and Devon Conway saw New Zealand clinch their Twenty20 series against Australia in Wellington on Sunday after the tourists faltered in the face of an experimental spin attack.

A century opening stand by Martin Guptill and Devon Conway saw New Zealand clinch their Twenty20 series against Australia in Wellington on Sunday after the tourists faltered in the face of an experimental spin attack. Set a target of 143 for victory in the fifth and final match, New Zealand claimed victory by seven wickets and took the series 3-2 with an emphatic 27 balls to spare. After being comprehensively outplayed in games three and four when batting second, New Zealand captain Kane Williamson knew he had to be innovative to win the series after he lost the toss and was told to bowl first. He put an emphasis on spin with his slow bowlers sending down 12 overs, the most for New Zealand in a Twenty20 match, and they took four of the eight wickets. "We just wanted to put out a much-improved performance from the last two and it was great that we could show some signs of improvement," Williamson said. "Clearly, the slower bowlers on that wicket were a little bit trickier." Of the spin brigade, Ish Sodhi finished with 3-24 off his four overs, Hong Kong-born Mark Chapman, bowling for the first time for New Zealand, took 1-9 off two and Mitchell Santner conceded only 21 runs from his four. Guptill, who had been out of form going into the series, silenced his critics with a masterful 71, including seven fours and four sixes, while Conway contributed 36 with the pair putting on 106 for the first wicket. New Zealand stumbled slightly when Kane Williamson went first ball but a Guptill single denied Riley Meredith the hat-trick. Glenn Phillips blasted New Zealand home with five fours and two sixes to be unbeaten on 34. Although a Covid-19 outbreak in Auckland forced the last three matches to be played on the same wicket in Wellington in the space of five days, Australian captain Aaron Finch said it was his side's batting and not a worn pitch that cost the tourists. "We probably weren't aggressive enough with the bat, myself led that at the top," he said. "We didnt get enough runs, we kept losing wickets at regular intervals. I thought (the pitch) played pretty well and Mitch Santner bowled beautifully with the new ball and didn't allow us to get away to a flyer." Matthew Wade top scored for the tourists with 44 while Finch contributed 36 and Marcus Stoinis made 24.

Hot Guptill leads New Zealand to T20 series win against Australia

Former England captain Michael Vaughan has lauded India as the "best team in the world” following Virat Kohli and Co's emphatic 3-1 Test series win over England. India defeated England by an innings and 25 runs in the fourth and final Test in Ahmedabad to seal the series win as they qualify for the final of ICC World Test Championship.&nbsp;

Vaughan, who had&nbsp;criticised&nbsp;the pitches on offer in the four-Test series, richly praised India for their showing in the series as he said if India can beat England in England, they will be hailed as the team of this era.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

“India, for me, are pound for pound the best team in the world. If you look at 2021, they won in Australia, they've beaten England 3-1... there's a T20 World Cup in India and they will be the&nbsp;favourites&nbsp;to win that as well,” Vaughan said on radio for BBC 5 Live Sport.&nbsp;&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>

“They've also got the challenge to come to England in a few months’ time for 5 Test matches. If they beat England, who are tough to beat in home conditions with the ball moving around... if India come here and beat England, and I wouldn't bet against them with that they've got on the talent.&nbsp;

“If they beat England in England then I think they are the team of this era. They've got enough. They've got the pace, the skill, the spinners and they've obviously got Virat Kohli. They are a tremendous team,” he added.&nbsp;

India&nbsp;are&nbsp;scheduled to tour England for a five-Test series later in the year and will hope to start the second cycle of ICC WTC with a statement.&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>

Meanwhile, India, after defeating England, completed their 13th&nbsp;Test win under Kohli's captaincy at home after spinners Ravichandran Ashwin and&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;Patel spun a web to bundle England for 135 runs. Ashwin and&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;ended the series with combined 59 wickets with Ashwin scalping 32 and&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;27.&nbsp;

India will face New Zealand in the final of WTC, scheduled for June 18-22 in England.&nbsp;

Former England captain Michael Vaughan has lauded India as the "best team in the world” following Virat Kohli and Co's emphatic 3-1 Test series win over England.

Former England captain Michael Vaughan has lauded India as the "best team in the world” following Virat Kohli and Co's emphatic 3-1 Test series win over England. India defeated England by an innings and 25 runs in the fourth and final Test in Ahmedabad to seal the series win as they qualify for the final of ICC World Test Championship. Vaughan, who had criticised the pitches on offer in the four-Test series, richly praised India for their showing in the series as he said if India can beat England in England, they will be hailed as the team of this era. “India, for me, are pound for pound the best team in the world. If you look at 2021, they won in Australia, they've beaten England 3-1... there's a T20 World Cup in India and they will be the favourites to win that as well,” Vaughan said on radio for BBC 5 Live Sport. ALSO READ: IPL 2021 Schedule: Team-wise full fixture list, date, time and venues “They've also got the challenge to come to England in a few months’ time for 5 Test matches. If they beat England, who are tough to beat in home conditions with the ball moving around... if India come here and beat England, and I wouldn't bet against them with that they've got on the talent. “If they beat England in England then I think they are the team of this era. They've got enough. They've got the pace, the skill, the spinners and they've obviously got Virat Kohli. They are a tremendous team,” he added. India are scheduled to tour England for a five-Test series later in the year and will hope to start the second cycle of ICC WTC with a statement. ALSO READ: Had to dig deep to find water: Ravi Shastri on road to World Test Championship final Meanwhile, India, after defeating England, completed their 13th Test win under Kohli's captaincy at home after spinners Ravichandran Ashwin and Axar Patel spun a web to bundle England for 135 runs. Ashwin and Axar ended the series with combined 59 wickets with Ashwin scalping 32 and Axar 27. India will face New Zealand in the final of WTC, scheduled for June 18-22 in England.

India the best team in the world, says former England captain Michael Vaughan

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief and former BCCI president Sharad Pawar on Sunday revealed how&nbsp;Sachin&nbsp;Tendulkar's suggestion led to Mahendra Singh Dhoni become the captain of the Indian cricket team.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While addressing a public meeting, Pawar revealed how Rahul Dravid wanted to quit captaincy in 2007 but for that, a new candidate was needed. Pawar asked Tendulkar to take the charge from Dravid but the Master Blaster refused before suggesting MS Dhoni's name for captaincy.&nbsp;Pawar served as the BCCI president for a period of three years from 2005 to 2008.&nbsp;

"I remember India had gone to England in 2007. At that time, Rahul Dravid was the captain. I was there in England then and Dravid came to meet me. He told me how he no longer wanted to lead India. He told me how the captaincy was affecting his batting. He told me that he should be relieved from the captaincy. I then asked&nbsp;Sachin&nbsp;Tendulkar to lead the side, but he refused the role," said Pawar during a public meeting.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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"I told&nbsp;Sachin&nbsp;that if both of you and Dravid do not want to lead the side, how will we go about things? Then&nbsp;Sachin&nbsp;told me that we have one more player in the country who could lead the side and his name is none other than MS Dhoni. After that, we gave the leadership to Dhoni," he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Under Dravid's captaincy in 2007, India&nbsp;were&nbsp;knocked out from the World Cup in the group stage. In the same year, Dhoni was named the captain of India's T20 side that went on to lift the T20 World Cup. Dhoni went on to lead the country in both ODIs and Tests, winning all the major ICC Trophies&nbsp;and becoming the only captain to date to have won all ICC trophies.&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>

In 2014, Dhoni announced his retirement from Test cricket after playing 90 Test matches. In 2020, Dhoni called it quits from international cricket marking an end to a trophy-laden 16-year-long career. He continues to play in the IPL.&nbsp;

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief and former BCCI president Sharad Pawar on Sunday revealed how Sachin Tendulkar's suggestion led to Mahendra Singh Dhoni become the captain of the Indian cricket team.

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief and former BCCI president Sharad Pawar on Sunday revealed how Sachin Tendulkar's suggestion led to Mahendra Singh Dhoni become the captain of the Indian cricket team. While addressing a public meeting, Pawar revealed how Rahul Dravid wanted to quit captaincy in 2007 but for that, a new candidate was needed. Pawar asked Tendulkar to take the charge from Dravid but the Master Blaster refused before suggesting MS Dhoni's name for captaincy. Pawar served as the BCCI president for a period of three years from 2005 to 2008. "I remember India had gone to England in 2007. At that time, Rahul Dravid was the captain. I was there in England then and Dravid came to meet me. He told me how he no longer wanted to lead India. He told me how the captaincy was affecting his batting. He told me that he should be relieved from the captaincy. I then asked Sachin Tendulkar to lead the side, but he refused the role," said Pawar during a public meeting. ALSO READ: IPL 2021 Schedule: Team-wise full fixture list, date, time and venues "I told Sachin that if both of you and Dravid do not want to lead the side, how will we go about things? Then Sachin told me that we have one more player in the country who could lead the side and his name is none other than MS Dhoni. After that, we gave the leadership to Dhoni," he added. Under Dravid's captaincy in 2007, India were knocked out from the World Cup in the group stage. In the same year, Dhoni was named the captain of India's T20 side that went on to lift the T20 World Cup. Dhoni went on to lead the country in both ODIs and Tests, winning all the major ICC Trophies and becoming the only captain to date to have won all ICC trophies. ALSO READ: It's banter!: Ravi Shastri reacts to viral memes around him on social media In 2014, Dhoni announced his retirement from Test cricket after playing 90 Test matches. In 2020, Dhoni called it quits from international cricket marking an end to a trophy-laden 16-year-long career. He continues to play in the IPL.

Ex-BCCI president reveals how Sachin Tendulkar suggested MS Dhoni's name to lead Team India

Polling opened on Sunday morning for a presidential election at crisis-hit Barcelona, where the winner will face the challenge of rebuilding the club's finances and squad.

Voting started at 09.00 local time (0800 GMT) in an election reshaped by the coronavirus pandemic.

The three candidates are former president Joan Laporta, the favourite according to the Catalan press, Toni Freixa and Victor Font.

They are running to replace Josep Maria Bartomeu, who resigned in October and was briefly taken in for questioning following police raids on the club on Monday into the 'Barcagate' scandal which revolves around allegations that Barcelona carried out a defamation campaign against current and former players critical of club leadership.&nbsp;

"These are the most important elections in the history of Barca," Laporta told the club web site after voting.

Barcelona is in crisis on and off the field.&nbsp;

In October, it announced losses of announced losses of 97 million euros ($114 million) for last season and debts that had more than doubled to 488 million euros. Star player Lionel Messi is out of contract in the summer. In the Champions League, Barcelona travel to Paris on Wednesday trailing Paris Saint-Germain &nbsp;4-1 after a humiliating first-leg home loss. Form in La Liga has improved and on Saturday Barcelona climbed to second, two points behind leaders Atletico Madrid, who have two games in hand.&nbsp;

In previous elections, members have cast their votes in person at the club's Nou Camp headquarters, but because of Covid-19 members have also been allowed to apply for postal votes.

The club said that of the 110,920 members, 22,811 had applied to vote remotely.

Polling stations have also been set up in Girona, Tarragona, Tortosa and Lleida in Catalonia and in Andorra but the club said that 78,987 members had indicated they would vote, as they always have, at the Camp Nou.

Even though it began to rain in Barcelona shortly after the polls opened, the club reported on their web site at 09.45 that "the large influx of members to the stadium continues." The club posted a photo of queueing supporters wearing masks and rubbing gel on their hands.

"Members should have no doubt about coming to vote," said &nbsp;Carles Tusquets, head of the interim management committee that has run the club since Bartomeu resigned on October 27.&nbsp;

The polling will continue until 21.00 local time and the result is expected before midnight. &nbsp;

Polling opened on Sunday morning for a presidential election at crisis-hit Barcelona, where the winner will face the challenge of rebuilding the club's finances and squad.

Polling opened on Sunday morning for a presidential election at crisis-hit Barcelona, where the winner will face the challenge of rebuilding the club's finances and squad. Voting started at 09.00 local time (0800 GMT) in an election reshaped by the coronavirus pandemic. The three candidates are former president Joan Laporta, the favourite according to the Catalan press, Toni Freixa and Victor Font. They are running to replace Josep Maria Bartomeu, who resigned in October and was briefly taken in for questioning following police raids on the club on Monday into the 'Barcagate' scandal which revolves around allegations that Barcelona carried out a defamation campaign against current and former players critical of club leadership. "These are the most important elections in the history of Barca," Laporta told the club web site after voting. Barcelona is in crisis on and off the field. In October, it announced losses of announced losses of 97 million euros ($114 million) for last season and debts that had more than doubled to 488 million euros. Star player Lionel Messi is out of contract in the summer. In the Champions League, Barcelona travel to Paris on Wednesday trailing Paris Saint-Germain 4-1 after a humiliating first-leg home loss. Form in La Liga has improved and on Saturday Barcelona climbed to second, two points behind leaders Atletico Madrid, who have two games in hand. In previous elections, members have cast their votes in person at the club's Nou Camp headquarters, but because of Covid-19 members have also been allowed to apply for postal votes. The club said that of the 110,920 members, 22,811 had applied to vote remotely. Polling stations have also been set up in Girona, Tarragona, Tortosa and Lleida in Catalonia and in Andorra but the club said that 78,987 members had indicated they would vote, as they always have, at the Camp Nou. Even though it began to rain in Barcelona shortly after the polls opened, the club reported on their web site at 09.45 that "the large influx of members to the stadium continues." The club posted a photo of queueing supporters wearing masks and rubbing gel on their hands. "Members should have no doubt about coming to vote," said Carles Tusquets, head of the interim management committee that has run the club since Bartomeu resigned on October 27. The polling will continue until 21.00 local time and the result is expected before midnight.

Polls open for presidential election at troubled Barcelona

Indian head coach Ravi Shastri on Sunday said that his team had to dig deep in a bid to qualify for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final due to the rules getting changed between into the tournament due to the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Owing to the COVID-19 disruption, the qualification scenario in ICC WTC was changed midway. The change stated that teams with better percentage points in the WTC points table will qualify and not the teams with the most&nbsp;number of points. India finished atop the WTC standings with 72.2 percentage points followed by New Zealand who have 70 percentage points as the two&nbsp;teams&nbsp;set-up a mouthwatering clash in the final of WTC.&nbsp;

"I am not worried about the next WTC&nbsp;cycle,&nbsp;I am thinking of the first cycle. If you ask me about the problems in the first cycle, please do not shift the goalpost. I am sitting at home during Covid-19, right in the month of October-November. You have got more points than any other team in the world. 360 at that time, suddenly, a week later without playing any cricket, there is a rule that comes stating that the points would be decided on the percentage system and go from number one to three. Fine, that's because of countries not wanting to travel, all acceptable and fine,” said Shastri during a virtual press conference on Sunday.&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>

"I want to understand the logic behind this, what is the way forward for me? I have to go to Australia, sitting comfortably at the top spot, leading by 60-70 points. They say you have to go to&nbsp;Australia,&nbsp;you have to beat Australia. How many teams in the last ten years can say with guarantee that we will beat Australia? The reason I am saying this, you are sitting at the top of the table, percentage system, you have to go to Australia and beat Australia. If you do not beat Australia, you come back home and beat England 4-0, you get close to 500 points and you still do not qualify. We have had to dig&nbsp;deep,&nbsp;we have had to go down every hole that is needed to find water. Do not ask me about the next cycle, first, let's finish this cycle," he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Plenty of youngsters got their hands on the Indian Test cap with the likes of Washington Sundar, T Natarajan,&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;Patel bagging their debuts in the longest format of the game, starting from the series against&nbsp;Australia.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-schedule-announced-narendra-modi-stadium-to-host-playoffs-and-final-check-full-fixtures-368587" hreflang="en">IPL 2021 schedule announced: Narendra Modi Stadium to host playoffs and final - check full fixtures</a>

Speaking about the big squads that were picked because of Covid-19 and quarantine protocols, Shastri said: "This is the most positive thing to come out of this bubble because of the bubble, you had to go with large squads. Because of the bubbles and quarantine rules, you had to go with 25-30 players. As a result, you had to dig deep and pick your best 30 players and as luck would have it, we had no choice to play every member. You found out who is good and who is not. It is a good headache to have and it is something that has worked well. If you said Natarajan would play a Test match, you would have said no way. Even Washington Sundar, you would have said no way. These are things you would not imagine but circumstances make it happen. I am glad the youngsters who got the opportunity cracked it open."&nbsp;

The final of ICC WTC is slated to be held on June 18-22 in England.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Indian head coach Ravi Shastri on Sunday said that his team had to dig deep in a bid to qualify for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final due to the rules getting changed between into the tournament due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Indian head coach Ravi Shastri on Sunday said that his team had to dig deep in a bid to qualify for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final due to the rules getting changed between into the tournament due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Owing to the COVID-19 disruption, the qualification scenario in ICC WTC was changed midway. The change stated that teams with better percentage points in the WTC points table will qualify and not the teams with the most number of points. India finished atop the WTC standings with 72.2 percentage points followed by New Zealand who have 70 percentage points as the two teams set-up a mouthwatering clash in the final of WTC. "I am not worried about the next WTC cycle, I am thinking of the first cycle. If you ask me about the problems in the first cycle, please do not shift the goalpost. I am sitting at home during Covid-19, right in the month of October-November. You have got more points than any other team in the world. 360 at that time, suddenly, a week later without playing any cricket, there is a rule that comes stating that the points would be decided on the percentage system and go from number one to three. Fine, that's because of countries not wanting to travel, all acceptable and fine,” said Shastri during a virtual press conference on Sunday. ALSO READ: It's banter!: Ravi Shastri reacts to viral memes around him on social media "I want to understand the logic behind this, what is the way forward for me? I have to go to Australia, sitting comfortably at the top spot, leading by 60-70 points. They say you have to go to Australia, you have to beat Australia. How many teams in the last ten years can say with guarantee that we will beat Australia? The reason I am saying this, you are sitting at the top of the table, percentage system, you have to go to Australia and beat Australia. If you do not beat Australia, you come back home and beat England 4-0, you get close to 500 points and you still do not qualify. We have had to dig deep, we have had to go down every hole that is needed to find water. Do not ask me about the next cycle, first, let's finish this cycle," he added. Plenty of youngsters got their hands on the Indian Test cap with the likes of Washington Sundar, T Natarajan, Axar Patel bagging their debuts in the longest format of the game, starting from the series against Australia. ALSO READ: IPL 2021 schedule announced: Narendra Modi Stadium to host playoffs and final - check full fixtures Speaking about the big squads that were picked because of Covid-19 and quarantine protocols, Shastri said: "This is the most positive thing to come out of this bubble because of the bubble, you had to go with large squads. Because of the bubbles and quarantine rules, you had to go with 25-30 players. As a result, you had to dig deep and pick your best 30 players and as luck would have it, we had no choice to play every member. You found out who is good and who is not. It is a good headache to have and it is something that has worked well. If you said Natarajan would play a Test match, you would have said no way. Even Washington Sundar, you would have said no way. These are things you would not imagine but circumstances make it happen. I am glad the youngsters who got the opportunity cracked it open." The final of ICC WTC is slated to be held on June 18-22 in England.

Had to dig deep to find water: Ravi Shastri on road to World Test Championship final

Ravi Shastri on Sunday addressed a press conference following India's 3-1 Test series win over England as Virat Kohli and Co qualify for the final of ICC World Test Championship.&nbsp;The head coach of the Indian cricket team was asked how he deals with viral memes on the internet and criticism offered by social media users.&nbsp;&nbsp;

For viral meme-creators, Shastri's flamboyant personality has been a go-to subject. From making memes on Shastri's love for a drink to even hammering him when India&nbsp;lose&nbsp;a match, memes on Shastri are all over the social media whenever Team India plays a match.&nbsp;

Giving his opinion on memes and criticism, Shastri said it's pure banter and he never takes it seriously. The former Indian all-rounder said&nbsp;that if people are laughing at his expense, then he's fine with it&nbsp;while adding who seriously cares whether he is having lemonade or honey water.&nbsp;&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>

Talking about the critics, Shastri made it clear that it will be always based around performances as he said that if you do well then fans will praise you and if you don't, then criticism will always be there.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"It's banter, it's at my expense, I'll have a laugh. I'll have lemonade or&nbsp;honey,&nbsp;you have a laugh at my expense. You have fun, enjoy. Have a drink on my name,” Shastri told reporters in a virtual press-conference on Sunday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&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>

The Indian team, with the 3-1 Test series in against England, qualified for the WTC final where they will take on New Zealand. Shastri said he is mighty proud of his team that too while staying inside bio-bubbles for so long.&nbsp;

"I cannot say how proud of I am of my Indian cricket team. To qualify for the ICC World Test Championship after everything they went through is incredible. This team takes pride in winning. This team doesn't mind losing as long as it throws its punches."&nbsp;

Ravi Shastri on Sunday addressed a press conference following India's 3-1 Test series win over England as Virat Kohli and Co qualify for the final of ICC World Test Championship.

Ravi Shastri on Sunday addressed a press conference following India's 3-1 Test series win over England as Virat Kohli and Co qualify for the final of ICC World Test Championship. The head coach of the Indian cricket team was asked how he deals with viral memes on the internet and criticism offered by social media users. For viral meme-creators, Shastri's flamboyant personality has been a go-to subject. From making memes on Shastri's love for a drink to even hammering him when India lose a match, memes on Shastri are all over the social media whenever Team India plays a match. Giving his opinion on memes and criticism, Shastri said it's pure banter and he never takes it seriously. The former Indian all-rounder said that if people are laughing at his expense, then he's fine with it while adding who seriously cares whether he is having lemonade or honey water. ALSO READ: India vs New Zealand: Southampton leads race to host ICC World Test Championship final Talking about the critics, Shastri made it clear that it will be always based around performances as he said that if you do well then fans will praise you and if you don't, then criticism will always be there. "It's banter, it's at my expense, I'll have a laugh. I'll have lemonade or honey, you have a laugh at my expense. You have fun, enjoy. Have a drink on my name,” Shastri told reporters in a virtual press-conference on Sunday. ALSO READ: IND vs ENG: Rishabh Pant's magnificent century against Jimmy Anderson and Co. The Indian team, with the 3-1 Test series in against England, qualified for the WTC final where they will take on New Zealand. Shastri said he is mighty proud of his team that too while staying inside bio-bubbles for so long. "I cannot say how proud of I am of my Indian cricket team. To qualify for the ICC World Test Championship after everything they went through is incredible. This team takes pride in winning. This team doesn't mind losing as long as it throws its punches."

It's banter!: Ravi Shastri reacts to viral memes around him on social media

India and England are set to lock horns for the fourth and final Test at the world’s largest cricket stadium – Narendra Modi Stadium – in Ahmedabad from March 4.&nbsp;The series, thus far, has been centred around the talks on pitches more than the actual cricket happening on the ground.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While England started a series with a thumping 227-run win in Chennai, a victory that prompted some of the former England cricketers to jump the gun and predict a series win for England; India came back roaring into the series with wins in the second and third Test by 317 runs and 10 wickets respectively.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Heading into the series finale, India&nbsp;lead&nbsp;the series 2-1 and a draw or win would be enough for Virat Kohli and Co to seal a spot in the final of ICC World Test Championship, slated to be played from June 10-14 June in England.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India’s Test deputy Ajinkya Rahane on Tuesday suggested&nbsp;that the pitch for the fourth Test would be similar to what both the teams faced in the second and third&nbsp;Test. Even England spinner Jack Leach suggested that there is more talk about the pitch outside the dressing room than inside it while adding players are completely focusing on the match.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Training ✅<a href="https://twitter.com/Paytm?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Paytm</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> <a href="https://t.co/G7GCV1EA8U">pic.twitter.com/G7GCV1EA8U</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1366328986800848900?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 1, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/4th-test-india-pushing-conditions-to-extremities-ball-will-turn-from-ball-one-ben-foakes-366877" hreflang="en">4th Test: India pushing conditions to extremities, ball will turn from ball one - Ben Foakes</a>

"Wicket will be similar to the third Test match and also the second Test in Chennai. Spinning track," Rahane told reporters ahead of the Test starting Thursday.

"I don't really have too much to say about the pitch, I think we got outplayed in those conditions and for me I am always looking to learn and get better and see every challenge as a way of improving,"&nbsp;Leach&nbsp;told reporters.

"I think their spinners bowled really, really well and I don't think we should take anything away from them by saying bad things about the wicket."

The performances of the batsmen have been on the disappointing side with only Rohit Sharma being the standalone batsman who looked like a threat in challenging conditions. While Joe Root started the series on a splendid note with the bat on a flat deck in Chennai, he has been limited to celebrating five-fers&nbsp;with the ball.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> Boys working hard for the 4th Test<a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCI</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GCA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GCA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GujaratCricketAssociation?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GujaratCricketAssociation</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Testcricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Testcricket</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cricket</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/practicesession?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#practicesession</a> <a href="https://t.co/tTtOSxVfzT">pic.twitter.com/tTtOSxVfzT</a>
— Gujarat Cricket Association (Official) (@GCAMotera) <a href="https://twitter.com/GCAMotera/status/1366659573134712832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/poor-pitch-in-ahmedabad-or-abysmal-batting-performance-366843" hreflang="en">Poor pitch in Ahmedabad or abysmal batting performance?</a>

The Narendra Modi Stadium is set to host the series finale after hosting its first-ever Test match since being rebuilt. The largest cricket stadium in the world witnessed the pink-ball Test that lasted just 842 deliveries – the shortest Test match since 1935.&nbsp;While fans and broadcasters have every right to be disappointed about watching a match that last five sessions, the pink-ball Test exposed the flawed technique of England batters.&nbsp;&nbsp;

When it comes to team selection, Team India, in the absence of Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah, is likely to bring Umesh Yadav into the playing XI with Kuldeep Yadav expected to get a green signal ahead of Washington Sundar. For England, Jack Leach is expected to replace one of the pacers and either of Mark Wood or Olly Stone could be in the fray to bring some fresh blood for the visitors.&nbsp;&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-signed-bats-to-historic-photos-inside-the-hall-of-fame-zone-narendra-modi-stadium-365726" hreflang="en">From signed bats to historic photos: Inside the 'Hall of Fame' zone Narendra Modi Stadium</a>

With another rank-turner expected in Ahmedabad, cricket lovers can expect spinners to continue their domination in the series.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India and England are set to lock horns for the fourth and final Test at the world’s largest cricket stadium – Narendra Modi Stadium – in Ahmedabad from March 4.

India and England are set to lock horns for the fourth and final Test at the world’s largest cricket stadium – Narendra Modi Stadium – in Ahmedabad from March 4. The series, thus far, has been centred around the talks on pitches more than the actual cricket happening on the ground. While England started a series with a thumping 227-run win in Chennai, a victory that prompted some of the former England cricketers to jump the gun and predict a series win for England; India came back roaring into the series with wins in the second and third Test by 317 runs and 10 wickets respectively. Heading into the series finale, India lead the series 2-1 and a draw or win would be enough for Virat Kohli and Co to seal a spot in the final of ICC World Test Championship, slated to be played from June 10-14 June in England. India’s Test deputy Ajinkya Rahane on Tuesday suggested that the pitch for the fourth Test would be similar to what both the teams faced in the second and third Test. Even England spinner Jack Leach suggested that there is more talk about the pitch outside the dressing room than inside it while adding players are completely focusing on the match. Training ✅@Paytm #INDvENG pic.twitter.com/G7GCV1EA8U — BCCI (@BCCI) March 1, 2021 × ALSO READ: 4th Test: India pushing conditions to extremities, ball will turn from ball one - Ben Foakes "Wicket will be similar to the third Test match and also the second Test in Chennai. Spinning track," Rahane told reporters ahead of the Test starting Thursday. "I don't really have too much to say about the pitch, I think we got outplayed in those conditions and for me I am always looking to learn and get better and see every challenge as a way of improving," Leach told reporters. "I think their spinners bowled really, really well and I don't think we should take anything away from them by saying bad things about the wicket." The performances of the batsmen have been on the disappointing side with only Rohit Sharma being the standalone batsman who looked like a threat in challenging conditions. While Joe Root started the series on a splendid note with the bat on a flat deck in Chennai, he has been limited to celebrating five-fers with the ball. #TeamIndia Boys working hard for the 4th Test@BCCI#GCA #GujaratCricketAssociation #INDvENG #Testcricket #Cricket #practicesession pic.twitter.com/tTtOSxVfzT — Gujarat Cricket Association (Official) (@GCAMotera) March 2, 2021 × ALSO READ: Poor pitch in Ahmedabad or abysmal batting performance? The Narendra Modi Stadium is set to host the series finale after hosting its first-ever Test match since being rebuilt. The largest cricket stadium in the world witnessed the pink-ball Test that lasted just 842 deliveries – the shortest Test match since 1935. While fans and broadcasters have every right to be disappointed about watching a match that last five sessions, the pink-ball Test exposed the flawed technique of England batters. When it comes to team selection, Team India, in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah, is likely to bring Umesh Yadav into the playing XI with Kuldeep Yadav expected to get a green signal ahead of Washington Sundar. For England, Jack Leach is expected to replace one of the pacers and either of Mark Wood or Olly Stone could be in the fray to bring some fresh blood for the visitors. IN PICS | From signed bats to historic photos: Inside the 'Hall of Fame' zone Narendra Modi Stadium With another rank-turner expected in Ahmedabad, cricket lovers can expect spinners to continue their domination in the series.

4th Test Preview: India-England gear up for Ahmedabad showdown with WTC final on line

Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah&nbsp;is set to get&nbsp;married and had asked for some days off, following which the ace Indian pacer was relieved from India’s squad citing ‘personal reasons.’&nbsp;&nbsp;

According to ANI,&nbsp;Bumrah&nbsp;is getting married and hence, asked the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to give him some days off to prepare for the same.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Speaking to ANI, sources in the BCCI in the know of developments have confirmed that the pacer is set to get married soon and has taken a leave to prepare for the same. "He informed the BCCI that he is getting married and has taken the leave to help in preparations for the big day," the source said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-gave-us-platform-to-express-ajinkya-rahane-on-dale-steyns-comments-of-psl-being-more-rewarding-than-ipl-367430" hreflang="en">IPL gave us platform to express: Ajinkya Rahane on Dale Steyn's comments of PSL being more rewarding than IPL</a>

The 27-year-old pacer played two of the three Tests in the ongoing four-match series against England and scalped four wickets in what was his first home Test series since making his debut for India.&nbsp;Bumrah&nbsp;was wicket-less in the third Test in his home ground in Ahmedabad as spinners&nbsp;wreaked havoc&nbsp;with the pink-ball.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Bumrah&nbsp;has been rested for the upcoming five-match T20I series against England in a bid to complete workload management.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/poor-pitch-in-ahmedabad-or-abysmal-batting-performance-366843" hreflang="en">Poor pitch in Ahmedabad or abysmal batting performance?</a>

Meanwhile, India&nbsp;are&nbsp;already 2-1 in the four-Test series against England and with a draw or win in the last match, the Virat Kohli-led side would qualify for the final of ICC World Test Championship, scheduled to be played at Lord’s later this year. New Zealand have already qualified for the summit clash of WTC.&nbsp;

Jasprit Bumrah is set to get married and had asked for some days off, following which the ace Indian pacer was relieved from India’s squad citing ‘personal reasons.

Jasprit Bumrah is set to get married and had asked for some days off, following which the ace Indian pacer was relieved from India’s squad citing ‘personal reasons.’ According to ANI, Bumrah is getting married and hence, asked the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to give him some days off to prepare for the same. Speaking to ANI, sources in the BCCI in the know of developments have confirmed that the pacer is set to get married soon and has taken a leave to prepare for the same. "He informed the BCCI that he is getting married and has taken the leave to help in preparations for the big day," the source said. ALSO READ: IPL gave us platform to express: Ajinkya Rahane on Dale Steyn's comments of PSL being more rewarding than IPL The 27-year-old pacer played two of the three Tests in the ongoing four-match series against England and scalped four wickets in what was his first home Test series since making his debut for India. Bumrah was wicket-less in the third Test in his home ground in Ahmedabad as spinners wreaked havoc with the pink-ball. Bumrah has been rested for the upcoming five-match T20I series against England in a bid to complete workload management. ALSO READ: Poor pitch in Ahmedabad or abysmal batting performance? Meanwhile, India are already 2-1 in the four-Test series against England and with a draw or win in the last match, the Virat Kohli-led side would qualify for the final of ICC World Test Championship, scheduled to be played at Lord’s later this year. New Zealand have already qualified for the summit clash of WTC.

Ace Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah has taken leave to prepare for marriage

The pitch for the fourth and final Test match between India and England, to be played at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad from March 4, will be similar to the strips of the second and third Test that were played in Chennai and Ahmedabad respectively, Team India vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane said on Tuesday.&nbsp;

India thrashed England in the third Test, which finished within two days, to take a lead of 2-1 in the four-Test series.&nbsp;There&nbsp;has&nbsp;been massive criticism on the pitch for the third Test, which India won by a 10-wicket&nbsp;margin, as both the teams return to the same venue – Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;

"Wicket will be similar to the third Test match and also the second Test in Chennai. Spinning track," Rahane told reporters ahead of the Test starting Thursday.&nbsp;

Axar&nbsp;Patel and Ravichandran Ashwin ran the show as England were bundled out for 112 and 81 in the pink-ball Test that lasted for just 842 deliveries – the shortest Test since 1935.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-gave-us-platform-to-express-ajinkya-rahane-on-dale-steyns-comments-of-psl-being-more-rewarding-than-ipl-367430" hreflang="en">IPL gave us platform to express: Ajinkya Rahane on Dale Steyn's comments of PSL being more rewarding than IPL</a>

Former England players like Michael Vaughan, Andrew Strauss, Alastair Cook and Monty Panesar among others lashed out at the pitch while demanding answers from the ICC.&nbsp;

"Talk happening outside is not at all affecting the Indian team," said Rahane. "We are concentrating on what we have to do. When we&nbsp;tour&nbsp;we never complain about the pitch."?&nbsp;

The&nbsp;10-wicket defeat was England’s successive loss as they crashed out of the race for the World Test Championship final. However, Rahane said India would not be complacent.&nbsp;

"We respect England... They are a very good team, balanced team," he said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-have-written-to-bcci-punjab-kings-ness-wadia-after-mohali-not-picked-among-potential-venues-367423" hreflang="en">'We have written to BCCI': Punjab Kings' Ness Wadia after Mohali not picked among potential venues</a>

"We are not taking them lightly. It's another Test match and we want to go out there and give our best. Equally, England would want to give their best and look to win."&nbsp;

India&nbsp;need&nbsp;a win or a draw to book a clash with New Zealand in the inaugural World Test Championship final and Rahane said they will go for an outright victory.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The pitch for the fourth and final Test match between India and England, to be played at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad from March 4, will be similar to the strips of the second and third Test that were played in Chennai and Ahmedabad respectively, Team India vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane said on Tuesday.

The pitch for the fourth and final Test match between India and England, to be played at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad from March 4, will be similar to the strips of the second and third Test that were played in Chennai and Ahmedabad respectively, Team India vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane said on Tuesday. India thrashed England in the third Test, which finished within two days, to take a lead of 2-1 in the four-Test series. There has been massive criticism on the pitch for the third Test, which India won by a 10-wicket margin, as both the teams return to the same venue – Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. "Wicket will be similar to the third Test match and also the second Test in Chennai. Spinning track," Rahane told reporters ahead of the Test starting Thursday. Axar Patel and Ravichandran Ashwin ran the show as England were bundled out for 112 and 81 in the pink-ball Test that lasted for just 842 deliveries – the shortest Test since 1935. ALSO READ: IPL gave us platform to express: Ajinkya Rahane on Dale Steyn's comments of PSL being more rewarding than IPL Former England players like Michael Vaughan, Andrew Strauss, Alastair Cook and Monty Panesar among others lashed out at the pitch while demanding answers from the ICC. "Talk happening outside is not at all affecting the Indian team," said Rahane. "We are concentrating on what we have to do. When we tour we never complain about the pitch."? The 10-wicket defeat was England’s successive loss as they crashed out of the race for the World Test Championship final. However, Rahane said India would not be complacent. "We respect England... They are a very good team, balanced team," he said. ALSO READ: 'We have written to BCCI': Punjab Kings' Ness Wadia after Mohali not picked among potential venues "We are not taking them lightly. It's another Test match and we want to go out there and give our best. Equally, England would want to give their best and look to win." India need a win or a draw to book a clash with New Zealand in the inaugural World Test Championship final and Rahane said they will go for an outright victory.

IND vs ENG 4th Test: Pitch would be similar to second and third match, says Ajinkya Rahane

The Mercedes Formula One team despite seven successive constructors titles possesses the "same fire, hunger and passion" says team principal Toto Wolff as when he arrived in 2013.

The 49-year-old Austrian's remarks came as the team launched its car for the 2021 season, one which they hope will culminate in Lewis Hamilton winning a record eighth drivers' title.

The Mercedes-AMG F1 W12 E Performance builds on the solid base of its predecessor but includes considerable aerodynamic changes alongside improvements to areas as such as the suspension, cooling system and Power Unit.

It will be seen on the track for the first time in pre-season testing in Bahrain on March 12.

Bahrain kicks off the season with their Grand Prix on March 28.

Wolff says the dominance of Mercedes is not damaging to the sport as there are plenty of 'sub plots' surrounding other drivers such as Jos Verstappen.

However, he says Mercedes are not going to be caught napping by lowering their standards for their drive remains as strong as ever.

"Every year we reset our focus and define the right objectives," said&nbsp;Wolff in a Mercedes statement to mark the launch of the new car.

"That may sound simple but it's damn hard and is probably why there are no sports teams out there with seven consecutive titles.

"So many things can happen and it's very natural to get used to success, and therefore not fight as hard for it.

"But this team has not shown any of that."

<h2>- 'Very long journey' -</h2>

Wolff said Hamilton and Finnish team-mate Valtteri Bottas as well as the rest of the staff always have new challenges which keeps them motivated.

"I see the same fire, hunger and passion now as I did the first time I walked through the doors in 2013," he said.

"Every season presents a new challenge and therefore, a new goal for us to achieve.

"2021 brings changes to the regulations, which could impact our competitiveness, plus the cost cap and working on the major rule changes of 2022.

"These challenges excite us."

One of Hamilton's crusades has been to promote and develop more diversity in the sport.

As a result the black base livery remains for a second season "to underline the team's commitment to improving diversity and inclusion within the team and our sport".

Wolff said the team had set itself targets to back up its words with actions.

"We've set ourselves the goal of at least 25 percent of all new starters coming from under-represented groups for the next five years," he said.

"The latest step is a joint foundation that we will create together with Lewis to improve all aspects of diversity in motorsport.

"All of these measures are encouraging, but we know that real change takes time and we're at the start of a very long journey.

"So, this topic will very much remain in our focus for years to come as we build on the foundations we've laid over the past few months."

The Mercedes Formula One team despite seven successive constructors titles possesses the "same fire, hunger and passion" says team principal Toto Wolff as when he arrived in 2013.

The Mercedes Formula One team despite seven successive constructors titles possesses the "same fire, hunger and passion" says team principal Toto Wolff as when he arrived in 2013. The 49-year-old Austrian's remarks came as the team launched its car for the 2021 season, one which they hope will culminate in Lewis Hamilton winning a record eighth drivers' title. The Mercedes-AMG F1 W12 E Performance builds on the solid base of its predecessor but includes considerable aerodynamic changes alongside improvements to areas as such as the suspension, cooling system and Power Unit. It will be seen on the track for the first time in pre-season testing in Bahrain on March 12. Bahrain kicks off the season with their Grand Prix on March 28. Wolff says the dominance of Mercedes is not damaging to the sport as there are plenty of 'sub plots' surrounding other drivers such as Jos Verstappen. However, he says Mercedes are not going to be caught napping by lowering their standards for their drive remains as strong as ever. "Every year we reset our focus and define the right objectives," said Wolff in a Mercedes statement to mark the launch of the new car. "That may sound simple but it's damn hard and is probably why there are no sports teams out there with seven consecutive titles. "So many things can happen and it's very natural to get used to success, and therefore not fight as hard for it. "But this team has not shown any of that." - 'Very long journey' - Wolff said Hamilton and Finnish team-mate Valtteri Bottas as well as the rest of the staff always have new challenges which keeps them motivated. "I see the same fire, hunger and passion now as I did the first time I walked through the doors in 2013," he said. "Every season presents a new challenge and therefore, a new goal for us to achieve. "2021 brings changes to the regulations, which could impact our competitiveness, plus the cost cap and working on the major rule changes of 2022. "These challenges excite us." One of Hamilton's crusades has been to promote and develop more diversity in the sport. As a result the black base livery remains for a second season "to underline the team's commitment to improving diversity and inclusion within the team and our sport". Wolff said the team had set itself targets to back up its words with actions. "We've set ourselves the goal of at least 25 percent of all new starters coming from under-represented groups for the next five years," he said. "The latest step is a joint foundation that we will create together with Lewis to improve all aspects of diversity in motorsport. "All of these measures are encouraging, but we know that real change takes time and we're at the start of a very long journey. "So, this topic will very much remain in our focus for years to come as we build on the foundations we've laid over the past few months."

Wolff says Mercedes still fired up for success

Former Barcelona president&nbsp;Josep&nbsp;Maria Bartomeu and his former advisor Jaume Masferrer were released after appearing before a judge&nbsp;investigating 2020’s ‘Barcagate’ scandal, a Spanish court said on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Both Bartomeu and Masferrer were arrested on Monday and&nbsp;"exercised their right not to speak". The judge ordered a conditional release as the investigation continues, the Barcelona court said in a statement.&nbsp;

The court added that the judge had sought to question them as part of the ‘Barcagate’ scandal investigation, which was opened&nbsp;in May 2020, into the suspected crime of business corruption and false administration.&nbsp;

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Whereas two other club official – Barca’s current chief executive Oscar Grau and head of legal services Roma Gomez Ponti were released on Monday. Notably, the series of arrest and the operation comes less than a week before Barcelona presidential elections are&nbsp;to be held.&nbsp;

The ‘Barcagate’ scandal includes allegations that the Catalan club made payments to a company named I3 Ventures in a bid to boost the image of the club on social media platforms. A part of the campaign included&nbsp;criticising&nbsp;the likes of Lionel Messi, Xavi and Pep Guardiola among other notable personalities associated with the club.&nbsp;Messi&nbsp;had&nbsp;described the controversy as "strange" in an interview with Catalan newspaper Mundo Deportivo.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fc-barcelona-release-statement-after-josep-bartomeus-arrest-over-barcagate-scandal-367314" hreflang="en">FC Barcelona release statement after Josep Bartomeu's arrest over 'Barcagate' scandal</a>

Bartomeu maintained the company had been hired only to monitor posts on social media&nbsp;before resigning in October 2020. Bartomeu’s successor at the club is due to be elected on Sunday with three candidates – Joan Laporta, Toni&nbsp;Freixa&nbsp;and Victor Font – involved in the elections.&nbsp;

Former Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu and his former advisor Jaume Masferrer were released after appearing before a judge investigating 2020’s ‘Barcagate’ scandal, a Spanish court said on Tuesday.

Former Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu and his former advisor Jaume Masferrer were released after appearing before a judge investigating 2020’s ‘Barcagate’ scandal, a Spanish court said on Tuesday. Both Bartomeu and Masferrer were arrested on Monday and "exercised their right not to speak". The judge ordered a conditional release as the investigation continues, the Barcelona court said in a statement. The court added that the judge had sought to question them as part of the ‘Barcagate’ scandal investigation, which was opened in May 2020, into the suspected crime of business corruption and false administration. ALSO READ: Argentines bring legend Diego Maradona back to life with mosaics Whereas two other club official – Barca’s current chief executive Oscar Grau and head of legal services Roma Gomez Ponti were released on Monday. Notably, the series of arrest and the operation comes less than a week before Barcelona presidential elections are to be held. The ‘Barcagate’ scandal includes allegations that the Catalan club made payments to a company named I3 Ventures in a bid to boost the image of the club on social media platforms. A part of the campaign included criticising the likes of Lionel Messi, Xavi and Pep Guardiola among other notable personalities associated with the club. Messi had described the controversy as "strange" in an interview with Catalan newspaper Mundo Deportivo. ALSO READ: FC Barcelona release statement after Josep Bartomeu's arrest over 'Barcagate' scandal Bartomeu maintained the company had been hired only to monitor posts on social media before resigning in October 2020. Bartomeu’s successor at the club is due to be elected on Sunday with three candidates – Joan Laporta, Toni Freixa and Victor Font – involved in the elections.

Ex-Barcelona president Josep Bartomeu released after appearing before judge

Dale Steyn on Tuesday created a huge uproar on social media after he said that the Pakistan Super League (PSL) is more rewarding than the Indian Premier League (IPL). The South Africa speedster said that the IPL is&nbsp;less rewarding for the cricketers than other franchise leagues around the world due to too much emphasis on the money involved in the IPL while adding that&nbsp;“cricket gets forgotten” as a result.&nbsp;Indian batsman and vice-captain of the Test team, Ajinkya Rahane has now responded to Steyn’s comments on PSL being more rewarding than the IPL.&nbsp;

Rahane, who addressed a press conference on Tuesday ahead of the fourth Test between India and England, said that the Indian Premier League (IPL) gave not only Indian players and platform to express themselves but also to the overseas players.&nbsp;While Rahane didn’t&nbsp;indulge&nbsp;in Steyn’s comments much, his&nbsp;succinct&nbsp;reply suggested how IPL has changed the way T20 cricket is looked at around the world.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“We are here to talk about the Test match. We are not here to talk about PSL or Sri Lankan Premier League. IPL gave us the platform to express ourselves. To a lot of Indians and overseas players. I am not sure about what Dale Steyn said and we are here to talk about the Test match,” Rahane responded when asked about his opinion on the Proteas pacer’s comments.&nbsp;

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Speaking to Express Tribune, Steyn, who had decided to withdraw his name from IPL 2021 said,&nbsp;“I wanted some time off. I found that playing in these other leagues was slightly more rewarding as a player.”&nbsp;

“I think when you go to IPL, there are such big squads and so many big names and so much emphasis on maybe the amount of money players earn and everything like that, so sometimes, somewhere down the line, cricket gets forgotten,” he added.&nbsp;

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Steyn has been a part of IPL franchises like Deccan Chargers, SunRisers Hyderabad, Gujarat Lions and Royal&nbsp;Challengers&nbsp;Bangalore in the past.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

“When you come to like a PSL or the Sri Lankan Premier League, for that matter, there is an importance on the cricket. I have only been here for a couple of days and I have had people in and out of my room, just wanting to know about where I have played and how I went about it. Whereas, when I go to something like the IPL that gets forgotten and the main topic is how much money did you go for in this IPL?” said Steyn.&nbsp;

Steyn didn’t play much in IPL 2020 due to his poor performances with the ball. In three matches, Steyn scalped just one wicket at an average of 133 and strike-rate of 11.40.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Rahane will be in action when India take the field for the fourth and final Test against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad from March 4.

Dale Steyn on Tuesday created a huge uproar on social media after he said that the Pakistan Super League (PSL) is more rewarding than the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Dale Steyn on Tuesday created a huge uproar on social media after he said that the Pakistan Super League (PSL) is more rewarding than the Indian Premier League (IPL). The South Africa speedster said that the IPL is less rewarding for the cricketers than other franchise leagues around the world due to too much emphasis on the money involved in the IPL while adding that “cricket gets forgotten” as a result. Indian batsman and vice-captain of the Test team, Ajinkya Rahane has now responded to Steyn’s comments on PSL being more rewarding than the IPL. Rahane, who addressed a press conference on Tuesday ahead of the fourth Test between India and England, said that the Indian Premier League (IPL) gave not only Indian players and platform to express themselves but also to the overseas players. While Rahane didn’t indulge in Steyn’s comments much, his succinct reply suggested how IPL has changed the way T20 cricket is looked at around the world. “We are here to talk about the Test match. We are not here to talk about PSL or Sri Lankan Premier League. IPL gave us the platform to express ourselves. To a lot of Indians and overseas players. I am not sure about what Dale Steyn said and we are here to talk about the Test match,” Rahane responded when asked about his opinion on the Proteas pacer’s comments. ALSO READ: Multi-millionaire Morris wants to follow in dad’s footsteps Speaking to Express Tribune, Steyn, who had decided to withdraw his name from IPL 2021 said, “I wanted some time off. I found that playing in these other leagues was slightly more rewarding as a player.” “I think when you go to IPL, there are such big squads and so many big names and so much emphasis on maybe the amount of money players earn and everything like that, so sometimes, somewhere down the line, cricket gets forgotten,” he added. ALSO READ: From MS Dhoni to Clive Lloyd: Records that Virat Kohli could achieve in the fourth Test Steyn has been a part of IPL franchises like Deccan Chargers, SunRisers Hyderabad, Gujarat Lions and Royal Challengers Bangalore in the past. “When you come to like a PSL or the Sri Lankan Premier League, for that matter, there is an importance on the cricket. I have only been here for a couple of days and I have had people in and out of my room, just wanting to know about where I have played and how I went about it. Whereas, when I go to something like the IPL that gets forgotten and the main topic is how much money did you go for in this IPL?” said Steyn. Steyn didn’t play much in IPL 2020 due to his poor performances with the ball. In three matches, Steyn scalped just one wicket at an average of 133 and strike-rate of 11.40. Meanwhile, Rahane will be in action when India take the field for the fourth and final Test against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad from March 4.

IPL gave us platform to express: Ajinkya Rahane on Dale Steyn's comments of PSL being more rewarding than IPL

Everton boosted their bid to earn a top-four finish in the Premier League as Richarlison sealed a 1-0 win against struggling Southampton on Monday.

Carlo Ancelotti's side won for the first time in six home league games thanks to Richarlison's early goal.

Everton's last success at Goodison Park had come against Arsenal just before Christmas, but ending a run of three consecutive home league defeats lifted them to within two points of fourth-placed West Ham.

The seventh-placed Toffees have a game in hand on West Ham, as well as Liverpool and Chelsea, who occupy the places directly above them.

Fresh from beating Liverpool 2-0 to secure their first victory over their Merseyside rivals at Anfield since 1999, Everton are firmly in contention to qualify for the Champions League via a top-four finish.

"It's been a very good week. I really appreciate the teamwork. We were focused defensively and good combinations in front. The performance was good and we deserved to win," Ancelotti said.

"To fight for European places we need to improve the home run. This performance can help us.

"It will be a dream to be in the top four at the end of the season. We are quite close."

After leading the top flight in November for the first time since 1988, Southampton have gone into a dramatic decline that leaves them just seven points above the relegation zone.

Southampton are without a win in their last nine league games, losing eight times since their last victory against Liverpool in December.

Saints boss Ralph Hasenhuttl said: "Thirty points are not enough to stay in the league. We need points.

"In the final third there was a lack of punch. That makes it difficult to win."

With Brazilian midfielder Allan making his first appearance since December after a hamstring injury, Everton were far more tenacious.

Southampton goalkeeper Fraser Forster returned for just his second league appearance this season after Hasenhuttl dropped Alex McCarthy.

But Forster was soon picking the ball out of the net as Richarlison gave Everton the lead in the ninth minute.

Jordan Pickford's long kick was flicked on by Dominic Calvert-Lewin to Gylfi Sigurdsson and Richarlison raced onto the midfielder's deft pass, rounded Forster and slotted into the empty net.

It was Richarlison's third goal in his last three games and his 11th of the season.

Michael Keane thought he had doubled Everton's advantage in the 25th minute, but the defender's header was disallowed by VAR after Mason Holgate was caught offside as he provided the assist.

Keane was a constant threat in the air and the England centre-back headed just wide from Sigurdsson's free-kick.

Rising to meet James Ward-Prowse's corner with a thumping header, Southampton's Mohammed Salisu went close to equalising against the run of play.

That triggered a late spell of Southampton pressure and Moussa Djenepo fired just wide before Jannik Vestergaard's close-range effort forced a superb save from Pickford.

Everton boosted their bid to earn a top-four finish in the Premier League as Richarlison sealed a 1-0 win against struggling Southampton on Monday. Carlo Ancelotti's side won for the first time in six home league games thanks to Richarlison's early goal.

Everton boosted their bid to earn a top-four finish in the Premier League as Richarlison sealed a 1-0 win against struggling Southampton on Monday. Carlo Ancelotti's side won for the first time in six home league games thanks to Richarlison's early goal. Everton's last success at Goodison Park had come against Arsenal just before Christmas, but ending a run of three consecutive home league defeats lifted them to within two points of fourth-placed West Ham. The seventh-placed Toffees have a game in hand on West Ham, as well as Liverpool and Chelsea, who occupy the places directly above them. Fresh from beating Liverpool 2-0 to secure their first victory over their Merseyside rivals at Anfield since 1999, Everton are firmly in contention to qualify for the Champions League via a top-four finish. "It's been a very good week. I really appreciate the teamwork. We were focused defensively and good combinations in front. The performance was good and we deserved to win," Ancelotti said. "To fight for European places we need to improve the home run. This performance can help us. "It will be a dream to be in the top four at the end of the season. We are quite close." After leading the top flight in November for the first time since 1988, Southampton have gone into a dramatic decline that leaves them just seven points above the relegation zone. Southampton are without a win in their last nine league games, losing eight times since their last victory against Liverpool in December. Saints boss Ralph Hasenhuttl said: "Thirty points are not enough to stay in the league. We need points. "In the final third there was a lack of punch. That makes it difficult to win." With Brazilian midfielder Allan making his first appearance since December after a hamstring injury, Everton were far more tenacious. Southampton goalkeeper Fraser Forster returned for just his second league appearance this season after Hasenhuttl dropped Alex McCarthy. But Forster was soon picking the ball out of the net as Richarlison gave Everton the lead in the ninth minute. Jordan Pickford's long kick was flicked on by Dominic Calvert-Lewin to Gylfi Sigurdsson and Richarlison raced onto the midfielder's deft pass, rounded Forster and slotted into the empty net. It was Richarlison's third goal in his last three games and his 11th of the season. Michael Keane thought he had doubled Everton's advantage in the 25th minute, but the defender's header was disallowed by VAR after Mason Holgate was caught offside as he provided the assist. Keane was a constant threat in the air and the England centre-back headed just wide from Sigurdsson's free-kick. Rising to meet James Ward-Prowse's corner with a thumping header, Southampton's Mohammed Salisu went close to equalising against the run of play. That triggered a late spell of Southampton pressure and Moussa Djenepo fired just wide before Jannik Vestergaard's close-range effort forced a superb save from Pickford.

Richarlison strikes to boost Everton's top-four bid

Liverpool said Tuesday they are "deeply saddened" by the death of former great Ian St John aged 82 after a long illness.

The Scotland international forward was a pivotal player in the first great Reds side built by Bill Shankly that won two league titles in 1964 and 1966.

St John won a place in Liverpool fans' hearts forever with one of the most iconic goals in their history as he netted the winner in extra time to secure their first ever FA Cup triumph against Leeds in 1965.

St John scored 118 goals in 425 appearances for Liverpool between 1961 and 1971.

He made an immediate impact after being bought from Motherwell for a then club-record fee of £37,500 in securing promotion to the First Division in the 1961/62 campaign.

Shankly described the arrival of St John and Ron Yeats years later as the "turning point" for the club.

"Liverpool Football Club is deeply saddened by the passing of Reds legend Ian St John, aged 82," read a Liverpool statement.

St John, who scored nine goals in 21 appearances for Scotland from 1959-65, went on to manage Motherwell and Portsmouth after retiring as a player.

He then formed a popular partnership with former England star Jimmy Greaves on television in their 'Saint and Greavsie' programme.

"It is with a heavy heart that we have to inform you that after a long illness we have lost a husband, father and grandfather," read a statement form the St John family.

“He passed away peacefully with his family at his bedside.

"We would like to thank all the staff at Arrowe Park Hospital for their hard work and dedication during these very difficult times.

“The family would be grateful for privacy at this extremely sad time."

St John -- who was one of six children and worked for a while in a steelworks like his father Alex who had died when he was six-years-old -- had suffered from bladder cancer in 2014.

Motherwell, for whom he scored 80 goals in 113 league games, also issued a statement.

"We are deeply saddened by the passing of Ian St John. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time."

Former Liverpool and England defender Jamie Carragher who like St John has gone to become a respected pundit tweeted his own tribute.

"RIP Ian St John.

"Another Liverpool Legend sadly passes away. One of the players along with Bill Shankly who made this club what it is today.

"I'll remember him most on the best football show on tv, The Saint &amp; Greavsie. X"

Liverpool said Tuesday they are "deeply saddened" by the death of former great Ian St John aged 82 after a long illness. The Scotland international forward was a pivotal player in the first great Reds side built by Bill Shankly that won two league titles in 1964 and 1966.

Liverpool said Tuesday they are "deeply saddened" by the death of former great Ian St John aged 82 after a long illness. The Scotland international forward was a pivotal player in the first great Reds side built by Bill Shankly that won two league titles in 1964 and 1966. St John won a place in Liverpool fans' hearts forever with one of the most iconic goals in their history as he netted the winner in extra time to secure their first ever FA Cup triumph against Leeds in 1965. St John scored 118 goals in 425 appearances for Liverpool between 1961 and 1971. He made an immediate impact after being bought from Motherwell for a then club-record fee of £37,500 in securing promotion to the First Division in the 1961/62 campaign. Shankly described the arrival of St John and Ron Yeats years later as the "turning point" for the club. "Liverpool Football Club is deeply saddened by the passing of Reds legend Ian St John, aged 82," read a Liverpool statement. St John, who scored nine goals in 21 appearances for Scotland from 1959-65, went on to manage Motherwell and Portsmouth after retiring as a player. He then formed a popular partnership with former England star Jimmy Greaves on television in their 'Saint and Greavsie' programme. "It is with a heavy heart that we have to inform you that after a long illness we have lost a husband, father and grandfather," read a statement form the St John family. “He passed away peacefully with his family at his bedside. "We would like to thank all the staff at Arrowe Park Hospital for their hard work and dedication during these very difficult times. “The family would be grateful for privacy at this extremely sad time." St John -- who was one of six children and worked for a while in a steelworks like his father Alex who had died when he was six-years-old -- had suffered from bladder cancer in 2014. Motherwell, for whom he scored 80 goals in 113 league games, also issued a statement. "We are deeply saddened by the passing of Ian St John. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time." Former Liverpool and England defender Jamie Carragher who like St John has gone to become a respected pundit tweeted his own tribute. "RIP Ian St John. "Another Liverpool Legend sadly passes away. One of the players along with Bill Shankly who made this club what it is today. "I'll remember him most on the best football show on tv, The Saint & Greavsie. X"

Former Liverpool great St John dies aged 82

England is ready to host extra matches for this year's European football championships, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said in an interview published on Tuesday.

Johnson told The Sun that his government's ambitions went further in a joint United Kingdom and Ireland candidacy to host the 2030 World Cup.

The Euros are set to be played in 12 cities across the continent from June 11, after being postponed last year as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.

The tabloid said ministers are holding talks with European football's governing body UEFA about hosting more games due to rising cases across the continent and the slow roll out of vaccines.

Britain has been one of the nations hardest-hit by the virus but has already vaccinated 20 million people with at least one dose and plans to finish the whole population by the end of July.&nbsp;

Johnson's spokesman last week dismissed talk about England hosting the whole tournament but Johnson indicated the country could take on more than just the semi-finals and final at Wembley.

"Any other matches they want hosted, we are certainly on for that!" he said. We are hosting the Euros. We are hosting the semis and the final.

"If there's, you know, if they want any other matches that they want hosted, we're certainly on for that but at the moment that's where we are with UEFA."

The Sun said finance minister Finance Rishi Sunak will announce in his Budget on Wednesday funds of £2.8 million ($3.9 million) to promote the UK and Ireland's bid for the 2030 World Cup.

England has hosted the tournament once before in 1966 -- the only time they have won the trophy -- and lost out for the hosting of the 2006 edition to Germany and the 2018 finals to Russia.

"We are very, very keen to bring football home in 2030," said Johnson. "I do think it's the right place.

"It's the home of football, it's the right time. It will be an absolutely wonderful thing for the country."

An Irish government spokesman confirmed they were keen to be part of a joint bid, and an assessment would be made.

"We look forward to further extensive engagement and collaboration as we seek to refine our hosting proposals in the coming months," said prime minister Micheal Martin's spokesman.

England is ready to host extra matches for this year's European football championships, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said in an interview published on Tuesday.

England is ready to host extra matches for this year's European football championships, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said in an interview published on Tuesday. Johnson told The Sun that his government's ambitions went further in a joint United Kingdom and Ireland candidacy to host the 2030 World Cup. The Euros are set to be played in 12 cities across the continent from June 11, after being postponed last year as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. The tabloid said ministers are holding talks with European football's governing body UEFA about hosting more games due to rising cases across the continent and the slow roll out of vaccines. Britain has been one of the nations hardest-hit by the virus but has already vaccinated 20 million people with at least one dose and plans to finish the whole population by the end of July. Johnson's spokesman last week dismissed talk about England hosting the whole tournament but Johnson indicated the country could take on more than just the semi-finals and final at Wembley. "Any other matches they want hosted, we are certainly on for that!" he said. We are hosting the Euros. We are hosting the semis and the final. "If there's, you know, if they want any other matches that they want hosted, we're certainly on for that but at the moment that's where we are with UEFA." The Sun said finance minister Finance Rishi Sunak will announce in his Budget on Wednesday funds of £2.8 million ($3.9 million) to promote the UK and Ireland's bid for the 2030 World Cup. England has hosted the tournament once before in 1966 -- the only time they have won the trophy -- and lost out for the hosting of the 2006 edition to Germany and the 2018 finals to Russia. "We are very, very keen to bring football home in 2030," said Johnson. "I do think it's the right place. "It's the home of football, it's the right time. It will be an absolutely wonderful thing for the country." An Irish government spokesman confirmed they were keen to be part of a joint bid, and an assessment would be made. "We look forward to further extensive engagement and collaboration as we seek to refine our hosting proposals in the coming months," said prime minister Micheal Martin's spokesman.

England ready to host more Euro 2020 games: Johnson

Cricket multi-millionaire Chris Morris has said that&nbsp;he wants to follow in his father's footsteps by playing for the South African province that dad Willie represented for 12 seasons.

Morris, 33, will play for the Rajasthan Royals in the 2021 Indian Premier League after the franchise bought him for US$2.2-million, an IPL auction record.&nbsp;

His projected fee will take him past $8-million in earnings from the IPL alone.

It is a different cricketing world from that in which Willie Morris played for what was then known as Northern Transvaal between 1979/80 and 1991/92.

Willie played in an era when cricket in South Africa was taking its first tentative steps towards professionalism.&nbsp;

"Cricketers still needed to have full-time jobs and would go to net practice after a long day in the office," said Chris.

Northern Transvaal had an unusual payment scheme, according to Lee Barnard, who captained Willie Morris for part of his career.&nbsp;

"Batsmen only got paid if they scored at least 25 runs. More guys got out between 21 and 24 than in the whole history of cricket. Bowlers had to meet targets. One player had such a poor season that he couldn’t even pay his laundry bills."

Chris Morris said that cricket had been his life because of his father.&nbsp;

"I always say I was born with a bat in my hand. He would come back from a long day at work and still have the energy to throw balls at me."

South Africa will be scrapping its current franchise system next season and will return to an interprovincial set-up similar to that in which Willie Morris played.&nbsp;

<h2>- IPL 'big surprise' -</h2>

The only big difference is that the province is now known as Northerns, with the name Transvaal having been dropped after the end of apartheid in South Africa.

"I’m quite excited for the new 15-province thing," said Chris.&nbsp;

"If I get the opportunity to play at Centurion for Northerns and follow in Willie’s footsteps that will be quite cool."

Morris said his IPL record signing "came as a very big surprise".&nbsp;

After being released by Royal Challengers Bangalore last year, he wasn't even sure that another franchise would want his brand of aggressive batting, fast bowling and agile fielding.

"I don't think anyone in the cricket fraternity thought cricket would ever pay this well. In the past cricket couldn't set you up for the rest of your life.&nbsp;

"It's the way business is going, the way sport is going, especially in the pandemic.

"I think a lot of people are looking for sport as a way to escape. Sportsmen have a responsibility to provide as much entertainment as we can."

Morris said he looked forward to returning to the Royals, a team he played for 2015. He said earning a big fee would not change his approach to playing.

"The auction is out of our control," he said.&nbsp;

"It's an absolute lottery. At the end of the day I've got to do what I have been doing over the last couple of years.&nbsp;

"There will be a little bit of added pressure, that's natural. But I'm fortunate enough to have been part of this franchise before and I know what I'm getting into.”

The tall all-rounder has also played T20 cricket in Australia’s Big Bash League, South Africa’s Mzansi Super League and for two English counties. Surprisingly, though, his appearances for South Africa in international cricket have been sporadic.

He said during a press conference in Durban, where he is playing in a domestic T20 tournament, that there had been no contact with his home country’s selectors since he was picked as a late replacement for the 2019 Cricket World Cup.

And he remains reticent about whether he would be available to play for South Africa in the T20 World Cup in India later this year.&nbsp;

"That's a difficult question," he said. "If that conversation comes, it comes."

Cricket multi-millionaire Chris Morris has said that he wants to follow in his father's footsteps by playing for the South African province that dad Willie represented for 12 seasons.

Cricket multi-millionaire Chris Morris has said that he wants to follow in his father's footsteps by playing for the South African province that dad Willie represented for 12 seasons. Morris, 33, will play for the Rajasthan Royals in the 2021 Indian Premier League after the franchise bought him for US$2.2-million, an IPL auction record. His projected fee will take him past $8-million in earnings from the IPL alone. It is a different cricketing world from that in which Willie Morris played for what was then known as Northern Transvaal between 1979/80 and 1991/92. Willie played in an era when cricket in South Africa was taking its first tentative steps towards professionalism. "Cricketers still needed to have full-time jobs and would go to net practice after a long day in the office," said Chris. Northern Transvaal had an unusual payment scheme, according to Lee Barnard, who captained Willie Morris for part of his career. "Batsmen only got paid if they scored at least 25 runs. More guys got out between 21 and 24 than in the whole history of cricket. Bowlers had to meet targets. One player had such a poor season that he couldn’t even pay his laundry bills." Chris Morris said that cricket had been his life because of his father. "I always say I was born with a bat in my hand. He would come back from a long day at work and still have the energy to throw balls at me." South Africa will be scrapping its current franchise system next season and will return to an interprovincial set-up similar to that in which Willie Morris played. - IPL 'big surprise' - The only big difference is that the province is now known as Northerns, with the name Transvaal having been dropped after the end of apartheid in South Africa. "I’m quite excited for the new 15-province thing," said Chris. "If I get the opportunity to play at Centurion for Northerns and follow in Willie’s footsteps that will be quite cool." Morris said his IPL record signing "came as a very big surprise". After being released by Royal Challengers Bangalore last year, he wasn't even sure that another franchise would want his brand of aggressive batting, fast bowling and agile fielding. "I don't think anyone in the cricket fraternity thought cricket would ever pay this well. In the past cricket couldn't set you up for the rest of your life. "It's the way business is going, the way sport is going, especially in the pandemic. "I think a lot of people are looking for sport as a way to escape. Sportsmen have a responsibility to provide as much entertainment as we can." Morris said he looked forward to returning to the Royals, a team he played for 2015. He said earning a big fee would not change his approach to playing. "The auction is out of our control," he said. "It's an absolute lottery. At the end of the day I've got to do what I have been doing over the last couple of years. "There will be a little bit of added pressure, that's natural. But I'm fortunate enough to have been part of this franchise before and I know what I'm getting into.” The tall all-rounder has also played T20 cricket in Australia’s Big Bash League, South Africa’s Mzansi Super League and for two English counties. Surprisingly, though, his appearances for South Africa in international cricket have been sporadic. He said during a press conference in Durban, where he is playing in a domestic T20 tournament, that there had been no contact with his home country’s selectors since he was picked as a late replacement for the 2019 Cricket World Cup. And he remains reticent about whether he would be available to play for South Africa in the T20 World Cup in India later this year. "That's a difficult question," he said. "If that conversation comes, it comes."

Multi-millionaire Morris wants to follow in dad’s footsteps

Pep Guardiola says Manchester City have no time to soak up the plaudits during their record-breaking run as the Premier League leaders chase an unprecedented quadruple.

City have set a record for an English top-flight team after reeling off 20 successive victories in all competitions.

It is the third-best winning streak among teams in Europe's leading five leagues, behind only Bayern Munich's 23 in a row in 2020 and Real Madrid's 22 successive victories in 2014.

City are 12 points clear at the top of the Premier League, face a League Cup final date with Tottenham and remain in contention to win the Champions League and FA Cup.

But City boss Guardiola has no intention of letting his players get distracted by the praise with a frantic schedule ahead of them.

"We don't have time," Guardiola said ahead of Tuesday's Premier League clash with Wolves. "There are many games, every three days a game, so we have to rest and think of the next one.

"We are delighted with what we have done so far, we cannot deny it. If no team has done it before it means how difficult it is.

"But, at the end, what counts in the world is if you lift the trophies or not. Still we cannot sit down on the sofa and say how good everything is."

West Ham manager David Moyes described City as the best side in Europe after the London club were beaten 2-1 at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday.

But Guardiola insisted that accolade was premature.

"The best team in Europe is Bayern Munich because they won everything, they are the best. In England the champions are Liverpool, they are the best," Guardiola said.

"The crown, if you want to take it, you have to win. In February, March no one is champion."

Guardiola, whose side are chasing a third English title in four seasons, said there were still a lot of points still to play for.

"There are tough opponents," said the Catalan. "When you have 10 points left, or 12 or 15, it is another issue but, with 36, it is many.

"We know how important this week is, with Wolves, (Manchester) United and Southampton before travelling to Fulham, these three games at home.

"If we are able to do what we want to do we will make an incredible step but we have to do many things still."

Pep Guardiola says Manchester City have no time to soak up the plaudits during their record-breaking run as the Premier League leaders chase an unprecedented quadruple.

Pep Guardiola says Manchester City have no time to soak up the plaudits during their record-breaking run as the Premier League leaders chase an unprecedented quadruple. City have set a record for an English top-flight team after reeling off 20 successive victories in all competitions. It is the third-best winning streak among teams in Europe's leading five leagues, behind only Bayern Munich's 23 in a row in 2020 and Real Madrid's 22 successive victories in 2014. City are 12 points clear at the top of the Premier League, face a League Cup final date with Tottenham and remain in contention to win the Champions League and FA Cup. But City boss Guardiola has no intention of letting his players get distracted by the praise with a frantic schedule ahead of them. "We don't have time," Guardiola said ahead of Tuesday's Premier League clash with Wolves. "There are many games, every three days a game, so we have to rest and think of the next one. "We are delighted with what we have done so far, we cannot deny it. If no team has done it before it means how difficult it is. "But, at the end, what counts in the world is if you lift the trophies or not. Still we cannot sit down on the sofa and say how good everything is." West Ham manager David Moyes described City as the best side in Europe after the London club were beaten 2-1 at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday. But Guardiola insisted that accolade was premature. "The best team in Europe is Bayern Munich because they won everything, they are the best. In England the champions are Liverpool, they are the best," Guardiola said. "The crown, if you want to take it, you have to win. In February, March no one is champion." Guardiola, whose side are chasing a third English title in four seasons, said there were still a lot of points still to play for. "There are tough opponents," said the Catalan. "When you have 10 points left, or 12 or 15, it is another issue but, with 36, it is many. "We know how important this week is, with Wolves, (Manchester) United and Southampton before travelling to Fulham, these three games at home. "If we are able to do what we want to do we will make an incredible step but we have to do many things still."

Guardiola says record-breaking Man City won't rest on their laurels

The first week of the&nbsp;DC (Delhi Capitals) Junior League 2021, which began at the&nbsp;Bal Bhavan International School, Dwarka on 21st February 2021, saw numerous talented U-14 players steal the show in the competition. From a double century to six sixes in an over, the 40-over tournament has seen it all.

Telefunken CC's&nbsp;Shaurya Seth blazed his way to 221 runs off 124 balls against Push CCE on his 13th birthday to help his team set a total of 455/2, which is the highest team total of the competition so far. Seth, who smashed 30 fours and 4 sixes in his innings, was ably supported by&nbsp;Kunal Sangwan (101* off 69 balls). The Telefunken CC side defeated Push CCE by a whopping 360 runs.

After the high of a double century by Seth,&nbsp;LB Shastri CC's Captain&nbsp;Arnav Bugga struck six sixes in an over during his innings of 155 runs (off 65 balls) against Harry CA. The Skipper, who cracked 18 fours and 11 sixes in his innings, led his team to a 276-run victory over the Harry CA side.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashwin-root-and-mayers-in-contention-for-icc-player-of-the-month-for-february-367383" hreflang="en">Ashwin, Root and Mayers in contention for ICC Player of the Month for February</a>

The 16-team tournament is being organized to provide a platform for both, boys and girls from the U-14 level, to showcase their talent. Three teams have fielded mixed teams in the competition with&nbsp;Simran Chauhan,&nbsp;Saachi and&nbsp;Minakshi playing for&nbsp;Sports Cube, Push CC and&nbsp;Telefunken CC respectively.

A total of 16 matches have been played in the&nbsp;DC Junior League 2021 so far and Sonnet, Telefunken CC, Baba Haridas CA and Wonders CC have already qualified for the quarter-finals.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/empowering-india-against-the-pandemic-ravi-shastri-receives-first-jab-of-covid-19-vaccine-367365" hreflang="en">'Empowering India against the pandemic': Ravi Shastri receives first jab of COVID-19 vaccine</a>

"The purpose of this league was to give children the much-needed competitive exposure which they had missed in the last one year. Over 240 kids between 10-13 years of age have been playing their hearts out and expressing their hunger for the game," said&nbsp;Jagrit Anand, Head of DC Academies, on the competition.&nbsp;"The tournament has already seen some great records with a 13-year-old boy scoring a double century and another one hitting 6 sixes in an over. There's a lot more to come in the next week of the competition."

The&nbsp;DC Junior League 2021&nbsp;is being held across three venues in Delhi NCR from 21 February to 06 March 2021.

The first week of the DC (Delhi Capitals) Junior League 2021, which began at the Bal Bhavan International School, Dwarka on 21st February 2021, saw numerous talented U-14 players steal the show in the competition.

The first week of the DC (Delhi Capitals) Junior League 2021, which began at the Bal Bhavan International School, Dwarka on 21st February 2021, saw numerous talented U-14 players steal the show in the competition. From a double century to six sixes in an over, the 40-over tournament has seen it all. Telefunken CC's Shaurya Seth blazed his way to 221 runs off 124 balls against Push CCE on his 13th birthday to help his team set a total of 455/2, which is the highest team total of the competition so far. Seth, who smashed 30 fours and 4 sixes in his innings, was ably supported by Kunal Sangwan (101* off 69 balls). The Telefunken CC side defeated Push CCE by a whopping 360 runs. After the high of a double century by Seth, LB Shastri CC's Captain Arnav Bugga struck six sixes in an over during his innings of 155 runs (off 65 balls) against Harry CA. The Skipper, who cracked 18 fours and 11 sixes in his innings, led his team to a 276-run victory over the Harry CA side. ALSO READ: Ashwin, Root and Mayers in contention for ICC Player of the Month for February The 16-team tournament is being organized to provide a platform for both, boys and girls from the U-14 level, to showcase their talent. Three teams have fielded mixed teams in the competition with Simran Chauhan, Saachi and Minakshi playing for Sports Cube, Push CC and Telefunken CC respectively. A total of 16 matches have been played in the DC Junior League 2021 so far and Sonnet, Telefunken CC, Baba Haridas CA and Wonders CC have already qualified for the quarter-finals. ALSO READ: 'Empowering India against the pandemic': Ravi Shastri receives first jab of COVID-19 vaccine "The purpose of this league was to give children the much-needed competitive exposure which they had missed in the last one year. Over 240 kids between 10-13 years of age have been playing their hearts out and expressing their hunger for the game," said Jagrit Anand, Head of DC Academies, on the competition. "The tournament has already seen some great records with a 13-year-old boy scoring a double century and another one hitting 6 sixes in an over. There's a lot more to come in the next week of the competition." The DC Junior League 2021 is being held across three venues in Delhi NCR from 21 February to 06 March 2021.

Double century, six sixes in an over: Top Highlights from week one of ‘DC Junior League 2021’

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday announced the nominees for the ICC Player of the Month Awards for the month of February to recognise the best performances from both male and female cricketers across all forms of international cricket.&nbsp;Fans have been treated to some fantastic cricket the last few months and can now vote on ICC's official website&nbsp;for their favourite ICC Player of the Month (February).

About the ICC Men’s Player of the Month February Nominees:&nbsp;

Ravichandran Ashwin played 3 tests against England as part of India’s ongoing series against them. In these Tests, 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 with taking a total of 24 wickets, Ashwin is the deserving candidate to be nominated in the Men’s category for Feb. England Test captain Joe Root makes it to the list of nominations again this month for his outstanding performance with the bat and the ball. He scored a total of 333 runs and took 6 wickets overall in the 3 Tests that he played against India.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/empowering-india-against-the-pandemic-ravi-shastri-receives-first-jab-of-covid-19-vaccine-367365" hreflang="en">'Empowering India against the pandemic': Ravi Shastri receives first jab of COVID-19 vaccine</a>

In the first Test against India, Root scored a 218 to lead England to victory. From the West Indies, Test debutant Kyle Mayers played 2 Tests against Bangladesh and scored a match-winning 210 to help the West Indies successfully chase 395 and win the first Test against Bangladesh. This performance alone is deserving of this nomination.&nbsp;

About ICC Women’s Player of the Month February Nominees:&nbsp;

Tammy Beaumont’s unbeaten 72 helped England to a comfortable seven-wicket win against New Zealand. She played 3 ODIs and passed fifty in each of these against New Zealand, totalling 231 runs.

Brooke Halliday of New Zealand also played 3 ODIs against England and scored a total of 110 runs and took a total of 2 wickets in these games. Brooke also went on to become just the fourth woman to score half-centuries in each of her first two ODI matches.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-becomes-first-indian-celebrity-to-have-100-million-followers-on-instagram-367305" hreflang="en">Virat Kohli becomes first Indian celebrity to have 100 million followers on Instagram</a>

England’s Nat Sciver went on to take 5 wickets and score a total of 96 runs in the 3 ODIs she played against New Zealand. Nat was the leading wicket-taker in the ODI series between New Zealand and England, and added an innings of 63 in the second match that they won.&nbsp;

The ICC Player of the Month voting process:&nbsp;

The three nominees for each of the categories are shortlisted based on on-field performances and overall achievements during the period of that month (the first to the last day of each calendar month).&nbsp;This shortlist is then voted on by the independent ICC Voting Academy&nbsp;and fans around the world.

The ICC Voting Academy comprising prominent members of the cricket family including senior journalists, former players, and broadcasters and some members of the ICC Hall of Fame.&nbsp;

The Voting Academy will submit their votes by email and will retain a 90% share of the vote. Additionally, fans registered with the ICC will be able to vote via the ICC website once the shortlisted players are announced and will have a 10% share of the vote. Winners will be announced every second Monday of the month on the ICC’s digital channels.&nbsp;

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

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday announced the nominees for the ICC Player of the Month Awards for the month of February to recognise the best performances from both male and female cricketers across all forms of international cricket. Fans have been treated to some fantastic cricket the last few months and can now vote on ICC's official website for their favourite ICC Player of the Month (February). About the ICC Men’s Player of the Month February Nominees: Ravichandran Ashwin played 3 tests against England as part of India’s ongoing series against them. In these Tests, 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 with taking a total of 24 wickets, Ashwin is the deserving candidate to be nominated in the Men’s category for Feb. England Test captain Joe Root makes it to the list of nominations again this month for his outstanding performance with the bat and the ball. He scored a total of 333 runs and took 6 wickets overall in the 3 Tests that he played against India. ALSO READ: 'Empowering India against the pandemic': Ravi Shastri receives first jab of COVID-19 vaccine In the first Test against India, Root scored a 218 to lead England to victory. From the West Indies, Test debutant Kyle Mayers played 2 Tests against Bangladesh and scored a match-winning 210 to help the West Indies successfully chase 395 and win the first Test against Bangladesh. This performance alone is deserving of this nomination. About ICC Women’s Player of the Month February Nominees: Tammy Beaumont’s unbeaten 72 helped England to a comfortable seven-wicket win against New Zealand. She played 3 ODIs and passed fifty in each of these against New Zealand, totalling 231 runs. Brooke Halliday of New Zealand also played 3 ODIs against England and scored a total of 110 runs and took a total of 2 wickets in these games. Brooke also went on to become just the fourth woman to score half-centuries in each of her first two ODI matches. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli becomes first Indian celebrity to have 100 million followers on Instagram England’s Nat Sciver went on to take 5 wickets and score a total of 96 runs in the 3 ODIs she played against New Zealand. Nat was the leading wicket-taker in the ODI series between New Zealand and England, and added an innings of 63 in the second match that they won. The ICC Player of the Month voting process: The three nominees for each of the categories are shortlisted based on on-field performances and overall achievements during the period of that month (the first to the last day of each calendar month). This shortlist is then voted on by the independent ICC Voting Academy and fans around the world. The ICC Voting Academy comprising prominent members of the cricket family including senior journalists, former players, and broadcasters and some members of the ICC Hall of Fame. The Voting Academy will submit their votes by email and will retain a 90% share of the vote. Additionally, fans registered with the ICC will be able to vote via the ICC website once the shortlisted players are announced and will have a 10% share of the vote. Winners will be announced every second Monday of the month on the ICC’s digital channels.

Ashwin, Root and Mayers in contention for ICC Player of the Month for February

Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell is looking forward to playing alongside Virat Kohli in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, terming the Indian skipper “the pinnacle of the game” for his sheer dominance across formats. Maxwell was signed by Royal Challengers Bangalore for a whopping INR 14.25 crore despite a&nbsp;below-average outing in IPL 2020 with Kings XI Punjab, now Punjab Kings.&nbsp;

Maxwell said the RCB stint is going to be next level as the Aussie heaped praise on Kohli for his ability to adapt to different formats and deal with the pressure of being the captain of the Indian team and the best player.&nbsp;

"It's (RCB stint) going to be next level," Maxwell told Australian Associated Press (AAP).&nbsp;&nbsp;

IN PICS:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-signed-bats-to-historic-photos-inside-the-hall-of-fame-zone-narendra-modi-stadium-365726" hreflang="en">From signed bats to historic photos: Inside the 'Hall of Fame' zone Narendra Modi Stadium</a>

"He's (Kohli) been the pinnacle of the game for a while as a multi-format player from Tests all the way to T20s. He's been able to adapt his game, dominate for a long period of time and deal with the Indian pressure of being their captain and their best player," Maxwell added.&nbsp;

IPL 2021 is likely to commence in the second week of April and Maxwell is hoping to grasp leadership qualities from Kohli.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"I'm looking forward to watching him go about his work, not just in games but in training, and hopefully tapping into some of the leadership stuff and try and learn off him."&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/4th-test-india-pushing-conditions-to-extremities-ball-will-turn-from-ball-one-ben-foakes-366877" hreflang="en">4th Test: India pushing conditions to extremities, ball will turn from ball one - Ben Foakes</a>

"He's been a solid backer of my stance," Maxwell said.&nbsp;

"In a way, he probably understood a lot of the things that I was going through. A lot of expectation and pressure, which I'm sure he can relate to."&nbsp;

Recently, Kohli opened up his battle with depression during India’s tour of England in 2014 while lauding Maxwell’s decision to take a break from the game.&nbsp;

Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell is looking forward to playing alongside Virat Kohli in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, terming the Indian skipper “the pinnacle of the game” for his sheer dominance across formats.

Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell is looking forward to playing alongside Virat Kohli in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, terming the Indian skipper “the pinnacle of the game” for his sheer dominance across formats. Maxwell was signed by Royal Challengers Bangalore for a whopping INR 14.25 crore despite a below-average outing in IPL 2020 with Kings XI Punjab, now Punjab Kings. Maxwell said the RCB stint is going to be next level as the Aussie heaped praise on Kohli for his ability to adapt to different formats and deal with the pressure of being the captain of the Indian team and the best player. "It's (RCB stint) going to be next level," Maxwell told Australian Associated Press (AAP). IN PICS: From signed bats to historic photos: Inside the 'Hall of Fame' zone Narendra Modi Stadium "He's (Kohli) been the pinnacle of the game for a while as a multi-format player from Tests all the way to T20s. He's been able to adapt his game, dominate for a long period of time and deal with the Indian pressure of being their captain and their best player," Maxwell added. IPL 2021 is likely to commence in the second week of April and Maxwell is hoping to grasp leadership qualities from Kohli. "I'm looking forward to watching him go about his work, not just in games but in training, and hopefully tapping into some of the leadership stuff and try and learn off him." ALSO READ: 4th Test: India pushing conditions to extremities, ball will turn from ball one - Ben Foakes "He's been a solid backer of my stance," Maxwell said. "In a way, he probably understood a lot of the things that I was going through. A lot of expectation and pressure, which I'm sure he can relate to." Recently, Kohli opened up his battle with depression during India’s tour of England in 2014 while lauding Maxwell’s decision to take a break from the game.

IPL 2021: Glenn Maxwell eager to learn from 'pinnacle of the game' Virat Kohli at RCB

Former India skipper Sunil Gavaskar has defended the pitch at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad as he said that opener Rohit Sharma showed the way to bat on the strip&nbsp;where England lost 20 wickets within two days to trail the four-Test series 2-1.&nbsp;

Rohit was the pick of the batsman for the hosts as the ‘Hitman’ scored 66 and 25 not-out with England’s Zak Crawley being the only other half-centurion in the third Ahmedabad Test.&nbsp;

Former England cricketers Alastair Cook, Andrew Strauss and Michael Vaughan among others&nbsp;criticised&nbsp;the pitch after the visitors lost the match by 10 wickets. However, Gavaskar has said that the Ahmedabad pitch was&nbsp;not "treacherously challenging" and&nbsp;pointed fingers towards the batsmen for their poor technique against spin bowling.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"It was not a pitch where the ball was misbehaving constantly. Nothing was kicking up alarmingly. Neither was there any great invariable bounce that the ball would shoot. Here, the bounce was actually true, almost.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/4th-test-india-pushing-conditions-to-extremities-ball-will-turn-from-ball-one-ben-foakes-366877" hreflang="en">4th Test: India pushing conditions to extremities, ball will turn from ball one - Ben Foakes</a>

"Yes, there was spin but Test match batsmen should be able to handle the turn or the straighter ones. Challenging, but not treacherously challenging. If you look at the dismissals, the batsmen have contributed to their own downfall.&nbsp;

"More than the pitch, it was about the mindset which did them in. Rohit Sharma’s batting in both innings showed you could score runs on this pitch," Gavaskar told Indian Express&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/poor-pitch-in-ahmedabad-or-abysmal-batting-performance-366843" hreflang="en">Poor pitch in Ahmedabad or abysmal batting performance?</a>

The Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad is also set to host the fourth and final Test from March 4 and will go on to stage the five-match T20I series against England as well.&nbsp;

When it comes to the ICC World Test Championship scenario, India need either a win or a draw to secure a berth in the summit clash against New Zealand.&nbsp;

Former India skipper Sunil Gavaskar has defended the pitch at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad as he said that opener Rohit Sharma showed the way to bat on the strip where England lost 20 wickets within two days to trail the four-Test series 2-1.

Former India skipper Sunil Gavaskar has defended the pitch at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad as he said that opener Rohit Sharma showed the way to bat on the strip where England lost 20 wickets within two days to trail the four-Test series 2-1. Rohit was the pick of the batsman for the hosts as the ‘Hitman’ scored 66 and 25 not-out with England’s Zak Crawley being the only other half-centurion in the third Ahmedabad Test. Former England cricketers Alastair Cook, Andrew Strauss and Michael Vaughan among others criticised the pitch after the visitors lost the match by 10 wickets. However, Gavaskar has said that the Ahmedabad pitch was not "treacherously challenging" and pointed fingers towards the batsmen for their poor technique against spin bowling. "It was not a pitch where the ball was misbehaving constantly. Nothing was kicking up alarmingly. Neither was there any great invariable bounce that the ball would shoot. Here, the bounce was actually true, almost. ALSO READ: 4th Test: India pushing conditions to extremities, ball will turn from ball one - Ben Foakes "Yes, there was spin but Test match batsmen should be able to handle the turn or the straighter ones. Challenging, but not treacherously challenging. If you look at the dismissals, the batsmen have contributed to their own downfall. "More than the pitch, it was about the mindset which did them in. Rohit Sharma’s batting in both innings showed you could score runs on this pitch," Gavaskar told Indian Express ALSO READ: Poor pitch in Ahmedabad or abysmal batting performance? The Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad is also set to host the fourth and final Test from March 4 and will go on to stage the five-match T20I series against England as well. When it comes to the ICC World Test Championship scenario, India need either a win or a draw to secure a berth in the summit clash against New Zealand.

'There was spin but...': Sunil Gavaskar opines on the Ahmedabad pitch in IND vs ENG series

Tiger Woods on Sunday thanked his fans and fellow golfers for supporting him as the golf legend continues to recover in&nbsp;hospital following surgery for serious leg injuries&nbsp;received in a horrific car crash.&nbsp;

"It is hard to explain how touching today was when I turned on the tv and saw all the red shirts," the 15-time major champion said in a tweet.&nbsp;

"To every golfer and every fan, you are truly helping me get through this tough time."&nbsp;

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It is hard to explain how touching today was when I turned on the tv and saw all the red shirts. To every golfer and every fan, you are truly helping me get through this tough time.
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Wearing Wood’s signature Sunday&nbsp;colours&nbsp;of red and black, a host of pro golfers at the World Golf Championships Workday Championship in Floria and some at the LPGA Tour event in Orlando paid tributes to the legendary golfer while praying for his&nbsp;quick recovery.&nbsp;

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Former world number one Rory&nbsp;Mcllroy, Tony Finau and Tommy Fleetwood at the WGC and Phil Mickelson at a PGA Tour Champions event were among other players who donned Wood’s iconic&nbsp;colour&nbsp;combination.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"I guess for us it's just a gesture to let him know that we're thinking about him and we're rooting for him," McIlroy said. "Obviously things are looking a little better today than they were on Tuesday, but he's still got&nbsp;aways&nbsp;to go.&nbsp;

"He's got a huge recovery ahead of him. But I think (it's) just for everyone to show their appreciation for what he means to us out here.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/encouraged-but-not-compulsory-ioc-vice-president-on-athletes-being-vaccinated-for-tokyo-2020-366141" hreflang="en">Encouraged but not compulsory: IOC vice president on athletes being vaccinated for Tokyo 2020</a>

"If there was no Tiger Woods, I just think the tour and the game of golf, in general, would be in a worse place.&nbsp;

"He's meant a lot to&nbsp;us,&nbsp;he still does mean a lot to us and I think that was just a little way to show that."&nbsp;

Woods underwent hours of emergency surgery to repair&nbsp;"significant&nbsp;orthopaedic&nbsp;injuries"&nbsp;to his right leg and ankle on Tuesday following his early morning crash in suburban Los Angeles. The 45-year-old was shifted to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles for further treatment on Wednesday. On Friday, a statement on Twitter said Woods is in good spirits after follow-up treatment.&nbsp;

Woods was already recovering from his fifth back surgery -- and hoping he would be able to prepare for a run at the Masters in April -- when the crash occurred.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Tiger Woods on Sunday thanked his fans and fellow golfers for supporting him as the golf legend continues to recover in hospital following surgery for serious leg injuries received in a horrific car crash.

Tiger Woods on Sunday thanked his fans and fellow golfers for supporting him as the golf legend continues to recover in hospital following surgery for serious leg injuries received in a horrific car crash. "It is hard to explain how touching today was when I turned on the tv and saw all the red shirts," the 15-time major champion said in a tweet. "To every golfer and every fan, you are truly helping me get through this tough time." It is hard to explain how touching today was when I turned on the tv and saw all the red shirts. To every golfer and every fan, you are truly helping me get through this tough time. — Tiger Woods (@TigerWoods) March 1, 2021 × Wearing Wood’s signature Sunday colours of red and black, a host of pro golfers at the World Golf Championships Workday Championship in Floria and some at the LPGA Tour event in Orlando paid tributes to the legendary golfer while praying for his quick recovery. ALSO READ: Argentines bring legend Diego Maradona back to life with mosaics Former world number one Rory Mcllroy, Tony Finau and Tommy Fleetwood at the WGC and Phil Mickelson at a PGA Tour Champions event were among other players who donned Wood’s iconic colour combination. "I guess for us it's just a gesture to let him know that we're thinking about him and we're rooting for him," McIlroy said. "Obviously things are looking a little better today than they were on Tuesday, but he's still got aways to go. "He's got a huge recovery ahead of him. But I think (it's) just for everyone to show their appreciation for what he means to us out here. ALSO READ: Encouraged but not compulsory: IOC vice president on athletes being vaccinated for Tokyo 2020 "If there was no Tiger Woods, I just think the tour and the game of golf, in general, would be in a worse place. "He's meant a lot to us, he still does mean a lot to us and I think that was just a little way to show that." Woods underwent hours of emergency surgery to repair "significant orthopaedic injuries" to his right leg and ankle on Tuesday following his early morning crash in suburban Los Angeles. The 45-year-old was shifted to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles for further treatment on Wednesday. On Friday, a statement on Twitter said Woods is in good spirits after follow-up treatment. Woods was already recovering from his fifth back surgery -- and hoping he would be able to prepare for a run at the Masters in April -- when the crash occurred.

'You are truly helping me': Tiger Woods touched by support from fans, fellow golfers

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer believes Manchester United are being negatively influenced by opposition managers referring to their penalty record after being denied a spot-kick in a 0-0 draw at Chelsea on Sunday.

United were furious that referee Stuart Attwell stuck to his original call not to award a penalty for handball by Callum Hudson-Odoi despite being asked to review the incident by VAR in the first-half.

The Red Devils have been awarded 22 penalties in the Premier League since the start of last season, four more than any other club, which led Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp and former Chelsea manager Frank Lampard to question why their sides failed to get the same treatment from officials.

"It's all these outside influences. That's influencing referees," said an unusually irate Solskjaer.&nbsp;

"We've seen there is loads of talk about us getting penalties when there is no doubt about it and today we should've had a penalty, that's clear."

A draw does little for either side's ambitions at the top of the Premier League.

Second-placed United now trail runaway leaders Manchester City by 12 points, while Chelsea remain a point outside the top four in fifth.

United's poor record against traditional top six opponents has prevented them maintaining a title challenge as they have now failed to win in seven league meetings with Chelsea, Arsenal, City, Liverpool and Tottenham.

Five of those games ended 0-0 and Solskjaer admitted his side need to be better with the ball.

"Defensively our attitude, application and pressing was brilliant. With the ball it wasn't good enough," said the Norwegian.

"We didn't create the chances we hoped for. But if you get that penalty and win 1-0 that's a perfect away performance."

Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel remains unbeaten in nine games since replacing the sacked Lampard, but a lack of firepower that has been a problem in the German's short reign so far was in evidence again for the Blues.

Solskjaer had given Mason Greenwood a start ahead of the out-of-sorts Anthony Martial and the young striker was involved in the most noteworthy incident as he and Hudson-Odoi vied for possession inside the Chelsea box.

Hudson-Odoi inadvertently caught the ball with his arm.

However, Tuchel took a very different view of the incident, claiming Greenwood had handled the ball first.

"How can this be an intervention (by VAR)? The player in red plays the ball with the hand and then we are checking for a penalty," he said.

"Why does the referee have to see this? He did everything right. I don't understand why he needs to check it but I'm glad there is no penalty because that would be even worse."

Edouard Mendy did well to save Scott McTominay's low shot early in the second-half and nervously parried Fred's piledriver in stoppage time with United's best efforts.

But it was Chelsea who posed the bigger threat after the break.

Substitute Timo Werner stung David De Gea's palms from long-range before Victor Lindelof's brilliant clearance denied the German international a tap in from Reece James's inviting cross.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer believes Manchester United are being negatively influenced by opposition managers referring to their penalty record after being denied a spot-kick in a 0-0 draw at Chelsea on Sunday.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer believes Manchester United are being negatively influenced by opposition managers referring to their penalty record after being denied a spot-kick in a 0-0 draw at Chelsea on Sunday. United were furious that referee Stuart Attwell stuck to his original call not to award a penalty for handball by Callum Hudson-Odoi despite being asked to review the incident by VAR in the first-half. The Red Devils have been awarded 22 penalties in the Premier League since the start of last season, four more than any other club, which led Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp and former Chelsea manager Frank Lampard to question why their sides failed to get the same treatment from officials. "It's all these outside influences. That's influencing referees," said an unusually irate Solskjaer. "We've seen there is loads of talk about us getting penalties when there is no doubt about it and today we should've had a penalty, that's clear." A draw does little for either side's ambitions at the top of the Premier League. Second-placed United now trail runaway leaders Manchester City by 12 points, while Chelsea remain a point outside the top four in fifth. United's poor record against traditional top six opponents has prevented them maintaining a title challenge as they have now failed to win in seven league meetings with Chelsea, Arsenal, City, Liverpool and Tottenham. Five of those games ended 0-0 and Solskjaer admitted his side need to be better with the ball. "Defensively our attitude, application and pressing was brilliant. With the ball it wasn't good enough," said the Norwegian. "We didn't create the chances we hoped for. But if you get that penalty and win 1-0 that's a perfect away performance." Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel remains unbeaten in nine games since replacing the sacked Lampard, but a lack of firepower that has been a problem in the German's short reign so far was in evidence again for the Blues. Solskjaer had given Mason Greenwood a start ahead of the out-of-sorts Anthony Martial and the young striker was involved in the most noteworthy incident as he and Hudson-Odoi vied for possession inside the Chelsea box. Hudson-Odoi inadvertently caught the ball with his arm. However, Tuchel took a very different view of the incident, claiming Greenwood had handled the ball first. "How can this be an intervention (by VAR)? The player in red plays the ball with the hand and then we are checking for a penalty," he said. "Why does the referee have to see this? He did everything right. I don't understand why he needs to check it but I'm glad there is no penalty because that would be even worse." Edouard Mendy did well to save Scott McTominay's low shot early in the second-half and nervously parried Fred's piledriver in stoppage time with United's best efforts. But it was Chelsea who posed the bigger threat after the break. Substitute Timo Werner stung David De Gea's palms from long-range before Victor Lindelof's brilliant clearance denied the German international a tap in from Reece James's inviting cross.

Solskjaer rages at penalty talk as Man Utd draw another blank at Chelsea

Manchester United were left frustrated by a VAR penalty controversy in their 0-0 draw at Chelsea, while the revitalised Gareth Bale struck twice in Tottenham's 4-0 rout of Burnley on Sunday.

Liverpool took advantage of dropped points for Chelsea to move within two points of the top four by ending a four-game losing streak with a 2-0 win at Sheffield United.

Second-placed United had hoped to close the gap on Manchester City with a victory at Stamford Bridge.

But instead they now sit 12 points behind the Premier League leaders as their title hopes fade following a run of one win from four games.

Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel is unbeaten in nine matches in all competitions since replacing the sacked Frank Lampard, but the stalemate also did little for the Blues top four challenge.

The biggest talking point of a dour clash came in the first-half when United's appeal for a penalty was rejected by referee Stuart Attwell after he consulted the pitchside monitor when Callum Hudson-Odoi appeared to handle in a challenge with Mason Greenwood.

"It was a penalty, 100 percent nailed on. If that's a natural position for a hand to be in when the ball comes in then I must be blind," United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said.

Tuchel disagreed, saying: "How can this be a VAR intervention? I don't understand why the referee has to check it but I'm glad it was no penalty."

<h2>- Bale shines for Spurs -</h2>

After five defeats in their previous six league games, Tottenham eased the pressure on Jose Mourinho with a significant contribution from Bale, who made just his third league start of the season.

The Wales forward's most impressive display since his season-long loan move from Real Madrid gave him four goals in his last four appearances.

Bale took just 68 seconds to score with a clinical close-range finish from Son Heung-min's cross.

The four-time Champions League winner then picked out Harry Kane's run and the England captain's shot deflected off James Tarkowski for his 22nd goal of the season.

Lucas Moura netted with a predatory finish before Bale, who had scored just once in the league all season before Sunday, grabbed his second with a cool strike from Son's 55th-minute pass.

Tottenham are up to eighth, six points behind the top four with a game in hand.

"There is not one single manager in the world that doesn't play Gareth Bale if Gareth Bale is in very good condition," Mourinho said.

"There is not one, but now he is better than ever. It's not just about the two goals he scored, it's fundamentally about his physical performance."

<h2>- Arsenal down Leicester -</h2>

Arsenal delivered a hammer blow to Leicester's faint hopes of winning the title with an impressive 3-1 win.

Mikel Arteta's side fell behind to Youri Tielemans' early goal at the King Power Stadium, but David Luiz equalised and Alexandre Lacazette's penalty gave Arsenal the lead.

Nicolas Pepe's second-half goal sealed the Gunners' second win in their last six league games and their first success at a team in the Premier League's top three since 2015.

Leicester remain in third place and trail City by 13 points with 12 games remaining.

Liverpool cut their gap to Leicester to six points thanks to a much-needed win against the league's bottom side.

The visitors had to wait until the second-half to make the breakthrough as Aaron Ramsdale's inspired performance kept the Blades in the game.

But there was little doubt over the outcome once Curtis Jones opened the scoring before Roberto Fimino's shot deflected in off Kean Bryan for Liverpool's second.

"It was very important (to win) because you can imagine plenty of people have written us off. It is about us to show we are still there," said Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp.

"With all the problems we had, we are still around the exciting places and that's where we want to be."

Third-bottom Fulham are three points from safety after a 0-0 draw at Crystal Palace.

Manchester United were left frustrated by a VAR penalty controversy in their 0-0 draw at Chelsea, while the revitalised Gareth Bale struck twice in Tottenham's 4-0 rout of Burnley on Sunday.

Manchester United were left frustrated by a VAR penalty controversy in their 0-0 draw at Chelsea, while the revitalised Gareth Bale struck twice in Tottenham's 4-0 rout of Burnley on Sunday. Liverpool took advantage of dropped points for Chelsea to move within two points of the top four by ending a four-game losing streak with a 2-0 win at Sheffield United. Second-placed United had hoped to close the gap on Manchester City with a victory at Stamford Bridge. But instead they now sit 12 points behind the Premier League leaders as their title hopes fade following a run of one win from four games. Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel is unbeaten in nine matches in all competitions since replacing the sacked Frank Lampard, but the stalemate also did little for the Blues top four challenge. The biggest talking point of a dour clash came in the first-half when United's appeal for a penalty was rejected by referee Stuart Attwell after he consulted the pitchside monitor when Callum Hudson-Odoi appeared to handle in a challenge with Mason Greenwood. "It was a penalty, 100 percent nailed on. If that's a natural position for a hand to be in when the ball comes in then I must be blind," United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said. Tuchel disagreed, saying: "How can this be a VAR intervention? I don't understand why the referee has to check it but I'm glad it was no penalty." - Bale shines for Spurs - After five defeats in their previous six league games, Tottenham eased the pressure on Jose Mourinho with a significant contribution from Bale, who made just his third league start of the season. The Wales forward's most impressive display since his season-long loan move from Real Madrid gave him four goals in his last four appearances. Bale took just 68 seconds to score with a clinical close-range finish from Son Heung-min's cross. The four-time Champions League winner then picked out Harry Kane's run and the England captain's shot deflected off James Tarkowski for his 22nd goal of the season. Lucas Moura netted with a predatory finish before Bale, who had scored just once in the league all season before Sunday, grabbed his second with a cool strike from Son's 55th-minute pass. Tottenham are up to eighth, six points behind the top four with a game in hand. "There is not one single manager in the world that doesn't play Gareth Bale if Gareth Bale is in very good condition," Mourinho said. "There is not one, but now he is better than ever. It's not just about the two goals he scored, it's fundamentally about his physical performance." - Arsenal down Leicester - Arsenal delivered a hammer blow to Leicester's faint hopes of winning the title with an impressive 3-1 win. Mikel Arteta's side fell behind to Youri Tielemans' early goal at the King Power Stadium, but David Luiz equalised and Alexandre Lacazette's penalty gave Arsenal the lead. Nicolas Pepe's second-half goal sealed the Gunners' second win in their last six league games and their first success at a team in the Premier League's top three since 2015. Leicester remain in third place and trail City by 13 points with 12 games remaining. Liverpool cut their gap to Leicester to six points thanks to a much-needed win against the league's bottom side. The visitors had to wait until the second-half to make the breakthrough as Aaron Ramsdale's inspired performance kept the Blades in the game. But there was little doubt over the outcome once Curtis Jones opened the scoring before Roberto Fimino's shot deflected in off Kean Bryan for Liverpool's second. "It was very important (to win) because you can imagine plenty of people have written us off. It is about us to show we are still there," said Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp. "With all the problems we had, we are still around the exciting places and that's where we want to be." Third-bottom Fulham are three points from safety after a 0-0 draw at Crystal Palace.

Man Utd frustrated by penalty row in Chelsea stalemate, Bale stars for Spurs

Jurgen Klopp believes Liverpool can prove the doubters that have written their season off wrong after snapping a four-game Premier League losing streak to win 2-0 at Sheffield United on Sunday.

The English champions' title defence has been decimated by injuries and they face a battle just to qualify for next season's Champions League via a top-four finish.

Klopp's men remain in sixth, but are now just two points behind fourth-placed West Ham and can leapfrog Chelsea in fifth when the Blues visit Anfield on Thursday.

"Plenty of people have written us off. That's fine," said Klopp. "With all the problems we have had we're still around the exciting places."

Captain Jordan Henderson has been added to Liverpool's long-term injury list, while goalkeeper Alisson Becker was absent after he lost his father to a swimming accident in Brazil this week.

<h2>- 'We're still there' -</h2>

But the Championship-bound Blades proved the perfect opponents for Klopp's men to restore some confidence as Curtis Jones's second-half strike and Kean Bryan's own goal got the Reds back to winning ways.

"This was about us showing we're still there," added Klopp.

"We play Chelsea on Thursday, we have to show it again. We have to win football games, we know that. There's no way into the Champions League without results."

With Alisson's understudy Caoimhin Kelleher also absent due to injury, Liverpool's third-choice goalkeeper Adrian started in the Premier League for the first time since conceding nine goals in two games in October to Aston Villa and Everton.

However, the much-maligned Spaniard made an important early save to prevent David McGoldrick giving Sheffield United a shock lead.

Most of the action was taking place down the other end as Aaron Ramsdale brilliantly denied Roberto Firmino, who should have teed up Jones for a tap-in.

The former Bournemouth stopper also did well to block from Mohamed Salah, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Georginio Wijnaldum, while Firmino's lack of confidence showed as he tried to tee up Sadio Mane rather than go for an open goal from a narrow angle.

Liverpool's breakthrough finally came three minutes into the second period when Alexander-Arnold was deemed not to have run the ball out of play before his cross was turned by Firmino into the path of Jones to slot home the opening goal.

The same two players were involved again for the second as this time the Brazilian's shot took a huge deflection off Bryan.

Firmino was denied his first goal in seven games with the goal credited to the defender.

"He had a goal," said Klopp. "For him it counts, if it's not in the stats, I don't care."

Andy Robertson and Salah were guilty of passing up more clear-cut chances that could have given the scoreline the reflection Liverpool's dominance deserved.

Sheffield United are still 15 points adrift of safety at the bottom of the table and manager Chris Wilder admitted his side lacked the quality to challenge even a depleted Liverpool.

"You have to have your best players available and be at the top of your form and unfortunately we are not," said Wilder.

"We had a right go but lacked quality and strength in depth. You need a bit more in this division because it's brutal and it exposes you."

Jurgen Klopp believes Liverpool can prove the doubters that have written their season off wrong after snapping a four-game Premier League losing streak to win 2-0 at Sheffield United on Sunday.

Jurgen Klopp believes Liverpool can prove the doubters that have written their season off wrong after snapping a four-game Premier League losing streak to win 2-0 at Sheffield United on Sunday. The English champions' title defence has been decimated by injuries and they face a battle just to qualify for next season's Champions League via a top-four finish. Klopp's men remain in sixth, but are now just two points behind fourth-placed West Ham and can leapfrog Chelsea in fifth when the Blues visit Anfield on Thursday. "Plenty of people have written us off. That's fine," said Klopp. "With all the problems we have had we're still around the exciting places." Captain Jordan Henderson has been added to Liverpool's long-term injury list, while goalkeeper Alisson Becker was absent after he lost his father to a swimming accident in Brazil this week. - 'We're still there' - But the Championship-bound Blades proved the perfect opponents for Klopp's men to restore some confidence as Curtis Jones's second-half strike and Kean Bryan's own goal got the Reds back to winning ways. "This was about us showing we're still there," added Klopp. "We play Chelsea on Thursday, we have to show it again. We have to win football games, we know that. There's no way into the Champions League without results." With Alisson's understudy Caoimhin Kelleher also absent due to injury, Liverpool's third-choice goalkeeper Adrian started in the Premier League for the first time since conceding nine goals in two games in October to Aston Villa and Everton. However, the much-maligned Spaniard made an important early save to prevent David McGoldrick giving Sheffield United a shock lead. Most of the action was taking place down the other end as Aaron Ramsdale brilliantly denied Roberto Firmino, who should have teed up Jones for a tap-in. The former Bournemouth stopper also did well to block from Mohamed Salah, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Georginio Wijnaldum, while Firmino's lack of confidence showed as he tried to tee up Sadio Mane rather than go for an open goal from a narrow angle. Liverpool's breakthrough finally came three minutes into the second period when Alexander-Arnold was deemed not to have run the ball out of play before his cross was turned by Firmino into the path of Jones to slot home the opening goal. The same two players were involved again for the second as this time the Brazilian's shot took a huge deflection off Bryan. Firmino was denied his first goal in seven games with the goal credited to the defender. "He had a goal," said Klopp. "For him it counts, if it's not in the stats, I don't care." Andy Robertson and Salah were guilty of passing up more clear-cut chances that could have given the scoreline the reflection Liverpool's dominance deserved. Sheffield United are still 15 points adrift of safety at the bottom of the table and manager Chris Wilder admitted his side lacked the quality to challenge even a depleted Liverpool. "You have to have your best players available and be at the top of your form and unfortunately we are not," said Wilder. "We had a right go but lacked quality and strength in depth. You need a bit more in this division because it's brutal and it exposes you."

'Written off' Liverpool still ready to fight - Klopp

Atletico Madrid bounced back from recent poor form with a hard-fought 2-0 win at Villarreal on Sunday that allowed the La Liga pace-setters to extend their lead to five points.

An own goal from Alfonso Pedraza and Joao Felix's powerful strike gave Atletico a precious win after a wobble which had allowed Barcelona and Real Madrid to gain ground in the title race.

Diego Simeone's side had come into the match off the back of a Champions League last 16 defeat to Chelsea and a league run in which they picked up just five points from their previous four matches.

However despite Villarreal coming close on a number of occasions Atletico held on for a win that ensures they keep second-placed Barca at bay and crucially increase the gap between them and rivals Real Madrid to six points ahead of next weekend's local derby.

Madrid can go back to within three points of Atletico when they host Europe-chasing Real Sociedad on Monday night.

"We suffered, and even after the second goal they had good chances. But we come home with a very important victory at this point in the season," said Simeone.

Atletico opened the scoring thanks to Pedraza's odd own goal mid-way through the first half, which came after long VAR check to see if Stefan Savic, who was initially credited with the goal, had strayed offside for Thomas Lemar's cross.

Savic's header was saved by Sergio Asenjo only for the ball to ricochet off Pedraza and into the net as the 24-year-old defender fell over.

Gerard Moreno should have pulled the hosts level when he met a Daniel Parejo cross but couldn't muster a decisive finish and Savic recovered easily to clear the ball off the line.

<h2>- 'I love rebel players' -</h2>

Suarez could have doubled Atleti's lead eight minutes after the break when he pounced on a defensive lapse to let off a powerful shot, only for Asenjo to pull of a superb reaction save to deny the Uruguayan.

However Joao Felix gave the away side the two-goal cushion they needed in the 69th minute, quickly latching onto a poor clearance by Pau Torres to lash home the second from just outside the penalty area.

Felix appeared to direct an angry look at Simeone after scoring, reportedly prompted by a lack of game time.

"I love rebel players, those that have pride. The goal brought something out in him," Simeone said.

"He needed it, and the team needed that goal."

The hosts responded, with Carlos Bacca somehow shooting wide when Moreno laid on a simple finish for the Colombian with 12 minutes remaining.

And teenage substitute Alex Baena was unlucky to finish the match without his first La Liga goal, first clipping the post in the 82nd minute and then forcing a brilliant save form Jan Oblak with a stinging volley.

However they couldn't recover and sit seventh thanks to a run of seven matches without a win.

Earlier Real Betis moved above Villarreal as they maintained their bid for European football next season thanks to Juanmi's late strike which earned them a 1-0 victory at struggling Cadiz.

Spaniard Juanmi rammed home a close range header with six minutes remaining to squeeze Betis past the home side and put them sixth.

Betis are just two points behind Sociedad in the automatic Europa League qualification spot.

Real Valladolid climbed out of the relegation zone despite extending their winless league run to eight in a 1-1 draw at Celta Vigo.

Valladolid were denied a first league win since January 2 by Jeison Murillo's stoppage time header.

In an intense relegation scrap Valladolid are level on 22 points with Alaves and Eibar, Elche are 19th on 21 points and rock-bottom Huesca have 20.

Atletico Madrid bounced back from recent poor form with a hard-fought 2-0 win at Villarreal on Sunday that allowed the La Liga pace-setters to extend their lead to five points.

Atletico Madrid bounced back from recent poor form with a hard-fought 2-0 win at Villarreal on Sunday that allowed the La Liga pace-setters to extend their lead to five points. An own goal from Alfonso Pedraza and Joao Felix's powerful strike gave Atletico a precious win after a wobble which had allowed Barcelona and Real Madrid to gain ground in the title race. Diego Simeone's side had come into the match off the back of a Champions League last 16 defeat to Chelsea and a league run in which they picked up just five points from their previous four matches. However despite Villarreal coming close on a number of occasions Atletico held on for a win that ensures they keep second-placed Barca at bay and crucially increase the gap between them and rivals Real Madrid to six points ahead of next weekend's local derby. Madrid can go back to within three points of Atletico when they host Europe-chasing Real Sociedad on Monday night. "We suffered, and even after the second goal they had good chances. But we come home with a very important victory at this point in the season," said Simeone. Atletico opened the scoring thanks to Pedraza's odd own goal mid-way through the first half, which came after long VAR check to see if Stefan Savic, who was initially credited with the goal, had strayed offside for Thomas Lemar's cross. Savic's header was saved by Sergio Asenjo only for the ball to ricochet off Pedraza and into the net as the 24-year-old defender fell over. Gerard Moreno should have pulled the hosts level when he met a Daniel Parejo cross but couldn't muster a decisive finish and Savic recovered easily to clear the ball off the line. - 'I love rebel players' - Suarez could have doubled Atleti's lead eight minutes after the break when he pounced on a defensive lapse to let off a powerful shot, only for Asenjo to pull of a superb reaction save to deny the Uruguayan. However Joao Felix gave the away side the two-goal cushion they needed in the 69th minute, quickly latching onto a poor clearance by Pau Torres to lash home the second from just outside the penalty area. Felix appeared to direct an angry look at Simeone after scoring, reportedly prompted by a lack of game time. "I love rebel players, those that have pride. The goal brought something out in him," Simeone said. "He needed it, and the team needed that goal." The hosts responded, with Carlos Bacca somehow shooting wide when Moreno laid on a simple finish for the Colombian with 12 minutes remaining. And teenage substitute Alex Baena was unlucky to finish the match without his first La Liga goal, first clipping the post in the 82nd minute and then forcing a brilliant save form Jan Oblak with a stinging volley. However they couldn't recover and sit seventh thanks to a run of seven matches without a win. Earlier Real Betis moved above Villarreal as they maintained their bid for European football next season thanks to Juanmi's late strike which earned them a 1-0 victory at struggling Cadiz. Spaniard Juanmi rammed home a close range header with six minutes remaining to squeeze Betis past the home side and put them sixth. Betis are just two points behind Sociedad in the automatic Europa League qualification spot. Real Valladolid climbed out of the relegation zone despite extending their winless league run to eight in a 1-1 draw at Celta Vigo. Valladolid were denied a first league win since January 2 by Jeison Murillo's stoppage time header. In an intense relegation scrap Valladolid are level on 22 points with Alaves and Eibar, Elche are 19th on 21 points and rock-bottom Huesca have 20.

Atletico hold La Liga rivals at bay with tight Villarreal win

Romelu Lukaku scored after 33 seconds and set up another in Inter Milan's 3-0 win over Genoa on Sunday to keep their title push on track ahead of city rivals AC Milan, who beat Roma 2-1.

Inter remain four points ahead of second-placed Milan, who got back to winning ways in Rome after consecutive league losses including last weekend's derby defeat.

Champions Juventus are a further six points adrift after being held 1-1 at Hellas Verona on Saturday, but have played a game fewer.

Atalanta, equal on points with Juventus, take fourth spot two points ahead of Roma who drop to fifth following the loss to Milan.

Lukaku scored with the first chance at the San Siro, then laid on Matteo Darmian for Inter's second in the 69th minute. Alexis Sanchez came off the bench to add a third with 13 minutes to go.

"We're first in the standings and it's a good feeling," said Lukaku as Inter try to deny Juventus a 10th consecutive league title after finishing runners-up last season.

Antonio Conte's side followed on from last weekend's 3-0 derby win over Milan, notching up a fifth win in a row as they push for a first league title since 2010.

"We're happy because our hard work is paying off," said Conte.

"We know that there are 14 games left. Let's keep our antennas up until the end if we want to do something good."

Lukaku led the way, completing a give-and-go with Lautaro Martinez after good work from Nicolo Barella to fire in from an angle for his 18th Serie A goal of the season, one shy of leading scorer Cristiano Ronaldo.

The 27-year-old has scored six goals in the last five games.

"I'm in a good moment of my career but the important thing is that Inter win," added the former Manchester United player.

"These matches are opportunities for us to give signals to others, but the championship is long."

<h2>- Milan edge Roma -</h2>

Milan won an intense battle with rivals Roma at the Stadio Olimpico in the Italian capital, as Stefano Pioli's side push for a first league title since 2011.

A Franck Kessie penalty gave Milan the lead five minutes before the interval after Federico Fazio fouled Davide Calabria.

Jordan Veretout pulled Roma level five minutes after the break with an arrowed shot, but the away side were soon back in front.

Ante Rebic drilled home the winner eight minutes later after collecting a pass from Alexis Saelemaekers following a poor clearance from Roma goalkeeper Pau Lopez.

Off-form Milan star Zlatan Ibrahimovic had been substituted shortly before Croatia international Rebic scored the decisive goal.

"I told the lads that two games (losses) cannot take away the confidence build up over a year," said Pioli.

"It's an important win at a decisive moment in the season which takes us out of two very strange weeks."

Ibrahimovic watched the end of game with an ice pack on his left thigh before a week in which he will juggle football and show business as one of the star presenters of the San Remo music festival.

Atalanta kept their Champions League push alive with a 2-0 win over Sampdoria with goals in either half from Ruslan Malinovskyi and Robin Gosens.

Napoli's record goalscorer Dries Mertens returned from injury to help the southerners boost their own top four hopes with a 2-0 win over local rivals Benevento that puts them a point behind Roma in sixth.

Mertens started for the first time in over two months and the 33-year-old got his boot to a Faouzi Ghoulam cross after half an hour for his 131st Napoli goal.

Matteo Politano turned in the second in the 66th minute and Gennaro Gattuso's side held on for the points despite Kalidou Koulibaly's sending off 10 minutes from time.

In the relegation battle, Cagliari snapped their 16-match winless run in coach Leonardo Semplici's first match in charge with a 2-0 success over rock-bottom Crotone.

Romelu Lukaku scored after 33 seconds and set up another in Inter Milan's 3-0 win over Genoa on Sunday to keep their title push on track ahead of city rivals AC Milan, who beat Roma 2-1.

Romelu Lukaku scored after 33 seconds and set up another in Inter Milan's 3-0 win over Genoa on Sunday to keep their title push on track ahead of city rivals AC Milan, who beat Roma 2-1. Inter remain four points ahead of second-placed Milan, who got back to winning ways in Rome after consecutive league losses including last weekend's derby defeat. Champions Juventus are a further six points adrift after being held 1-1 at Hellas Verona on Saturday, but have played a game fewer. Atalanta, equal on points with Juventus, take fourth spot two points ahead of Roma who drop to fifth following the loss to Milan. Lukaku scored with the first chance at the San Siro, then laid on Matteo Darmian for Inter's second in the 69th minute. Alexis Sanchez came off the bench to add a third with 13 minutes to go. "We're first in the standings and it's a good feeling," said Lukaku as Inter try to deny Juventus a 10th consecutive league title after finishing runners-up last season. Antonio Conte's side followed on from last weekend's 3-0 derby win over Milan, notching up a fifth win in a row as they push for a first league title since 2010. "We're happy because our hard work is paying off," said Conte. "We know that there are 14 games left. Let's keep our antennas up until the end if we want to do something good." Lukaku led the way, completing a give-and-go with Lautaro Martinez after good work from Nicolo Barella to fire in from an angle for his 18th Serie A goal of the season, one shy of leading scorer Cristiano Ronaldo. The 27-year-old has scored six goals in the last five games. "I'm in a good moment of my career but the important thing is that Inter win," added the former Manchester United player. "These matches are opportunities for us to give signals to others, but the championship is long." - Milan edge Roma - Milan won an intense battle with rivals Roma at the Stadio Olimpico in the Italian capital, as Stefano Pioli's side push for a first league title since 2011. A Franck Kessie penalty gave Milan the lead five minutes before the interval after Federico Fazio fouled Davide Calabria. Jordan Veretout pulled Roma level five minutes after the break with an arrowed shot, but the away side were soon back in front. Ante Rebic drilled home the winner eight minutes later after collecting a pass from Alexis Saelemaekers following a poor clearance from Roma goalkeeper Pau Lopez. Off-form Milan star Zlatan Ibrahimovic had been substituted shortly before Croatia international Rebic scored the decisive goal. "I told the lads that two games (losses) cannot take away the confidence build up over a year," said Pioli. "It's an important win at a decisive moment in the season which takes us out of two very strange weeks." Ibrahimovic watched the end of game with an ice pack on his left thigh before a week in which he will juggle football and show business as one of the star presenters of the San Remo music festival. Atalanta kept their Champions League push alive with a 2-0 win over Sampdoria with goals in either half from Ruslan Malinovskyi and Robin Gosens. Napoli's record goalscorer Dries Mertens returned from injury to help the southerners boost their own top four hopes with a 2-0 win over local rivals Benevento that puts them a point behind Roma in sixth. Mertens started for the first time in over two months and the 33-year-old got his boot to a Faouzi Ghoulam cross after half an hour for his 131st Napoli goal. Matteo Politano turned in the second in the 66th minute and Gennaro Gattuso's side held on for the points despite Kalidou Koulibaly's sending off 10 minutes from time. In the relegation battle, Cagliari snapped their 16-match winless run in coach Leonardo Semplici's first match in charge with a 2-0 success over rock-bottom Crotone.

Lukaku keeps Inter's title push on track as Milan bounce back against Roma

The mini-auction&nbsp;for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, which was held in Chennai on February 18,&nbsp;lived up to the expectations of the fans as an action-packed event enthralled the fans with&nbsp;surprises and excitement.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Punjab franchise went into the mini-auction&nbsp;not only with the biggest purse but&nbsp;with a revamped brand identity&nbsp;as well. A new name and logo to freshen up things&nbsp;as Kings XI Punjab was renamed to Punjab Kings&nbsp;as the franchise commences a new journey in the world of IPL.&nbsp;

With a purse of INR 53.1 crore in the auction, Punjab Kings were expected to sign some big-name players and the franchise lived up to the expectations. Not only did Punjab Kings sign&nbsp;the world’s number one T20I player, but they also signed&nbsp;two&nbsp;of the brightest Australian talents when it comes to the shortest format of the game.&nbsp;On top of that, Punjab Kings roped in&nbsp;a couple of domestic talents who are known for their exploits in T20 cricket.&nbsp;

As the 14th&nbsp;edition of the Indian Premier League approaches after the completion of mini-auction, Punjab Kings CEO, Satish Menon, exclusively spoke to WION’s Subhayan Chakraborty&nbsp;as he discussed the rebranding of the Punjab franchise,&nbsp;the big-name signings in the auction, growth of Punjab Kings since the inaugural edition of IPL, and much more.&nbsp;

<img alt="Punjab Kings" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="65c59ede-2a80-4f4a-b5cf-64e4715bdd30" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/PK.JPG" />

Below are the excerpts:

Subhayan Chakraborty: What made the franchise go ahead with a new logo and name, and what was the idea behind it?&nbsp;

Satish Menon: The new name and logo were in process for some time. It is not something we changed overnight. We felt it was the right time to refresh things up and give fans something new. Initially, our idea&nbsp;was to revamp the Punjab franchise’s branding in 2022 but with new franchises likely to join from next season onwards, we felt this season was the best time to make the most out of it as the new franchises would naturally be promoting themselves when they are launched. We are delighted with the response to the&nbsp;new name and logo from everyone.

Punjab Kings is a more evolved brand name along with our new logo. We wanted to focus on the core brand. Having said that, the change in logo and name is not about shifting our focus&nbsp;from our ethos. It is more about celebrating unity as a family. The new logo has modern elements in it.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Nave andaaz hor wakhre josh de naal 🎺 
swagat karo <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PunjabKings?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PunjabKings</a> da 💥👑🤩<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SaddaPunjab?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SaddaPunjab</a> <a href="https://t.co/IVvmsx56Qb">pic.twitter.com/IVvmsx56Qb</a>
— Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/PunjabKingsIPL/status/1362069301117607939?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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SC: How do you look at Punjab Kings’ growth as a franchise in the last decade?&nbsp;&nbsp;

Satish Menon: It has grown massively. When the IPL was introduced to this country and the cricket community, we were entering unknown territory. India is a cricket crazy&nbsp;nation;&nbsp;people love the sport. As a brand, we have seen tremendous growth in terms of the number of followers not only in India but worldwide. The love and passion for our franchise have just grown despite us not winning silverware, which reflects the loyalty of our fanbase.&nbsp;

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“I am pretty sure the new name will bring us good fortune this year!” 💥<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CaptainPunjab?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CaptainPunjab</a>, we are pretty much sure, too! 🥰<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SaddaPunjab?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SaddaPunjab</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PunjabKings?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PunjabKings</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/klrahul11?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@klrahul11</a> <a href="https://t.co/edIJyFNmv1">pic.twitter.com/edIJyFNmv1</a>
— Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/PunjabKingsIPL/status/1362242938353446914?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
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SC: Punjab Kings have played some good cricket over the years but one thing which is missing is silverware. What do you make of the team's failure to win titles despite trying so many team combinations in the past and&nbsp;now?

Satish Menon: Winning and losing are part and parcel of cricket or any other sport. As you said, we have played some good cricket but we have always been looking to improve and take that next step forward. IPL is top quality and there is only one winner.&nbsp;We obviously want to lift the trophy but at the same time, we want our fans and viewers to enjoy good cricket. Punjab as a team has come close to&nbsp;be in the final stages&nbsp;of the tournament or even win the IPL but it is the failure in the last phases that have hurt us as a team. We are confident in our team, players and everyone associated with it and hope to break the deadlock.&nbsp;

SC: Punjab Kings made some big-name buys in&nbsp;Jhye&nbsp;Richardson, Riley Meredith, Moises Henriques, Dawid Malan - How content&nbsp;are&nbsp;you with how the auction went for Punjab?&nbsp;&nbsp;

Satish Menon: Really content. We almost got everyone we wanted. In mini-auctions or auctions, there will be cases where you miss a key target or two but in hindsight, we are really happy with the players we bought during the auction. The players we bought have&nbsp;a good blend of youth and experience. The staff and team management are happy with the outcome of the auction.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Presenting <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SaddaSquad?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SaddaSquad</a> for the season! 🦁👑 
 
Khush ho tussi❓🥰<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SaddaPunjab?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SaddaPunjab</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PunjabKings?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PunjabKings</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPLAuction2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPLAuction2021</a> <a href="https://t.co/9sxgNsq0zu">pic.twitter.com/9sxgNsq0zu</a>
— Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/PunjabKingsIPL/status/1362452243832659968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
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SC: How challenging is it to go into the auction without a confirmed venue for the tournament?&nbsp;

Satish Menon: It is obviously challenging but we can’t complain in today’s world.&nbsp;We are thankful to be able to get a tournament like IPL going. The&nbsp;BCCI and all the franchises gave their best shot for the last edition&nbsp;amid the pandemic&nbsp;and&nbsp;we all&nbsp;are&nbsp;glad to pull it off. Credit to everyone involved.&nbsp;Coming to the auction, we have built our team keeping every challenge in mind. The players will be ready for it so will be everyone associated with Punjab Kings.&nbsp;

SC: What was the thought process behind buying&nbsp;Jhye Richardson for INR 14 crore?&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Satish Menon: Jhye&nbsp;was always on our list. He is one of the finest components with the ball in white-ball cricket.&nbsp;We stretched ourselves for Chris Morris but Rajasthan Royals got&nbsp;hold of him.&nbsp;Jhye’s&nbsp;ability to bowl at any stage of the match gives&nbsp;us the flexibility we were looking for. And obviously, he is a very handy player with the bat as well. We are really excited to witness&nbsp;Jhye&nbsp;in Punjab Kings jersey in IPL.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Say Hi to Jhye! 🙋‍♂️ 
 
Who takes wickets for fun, our newly recruited Richardson! 🥰<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SaddaPunjab?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SaddaPunjab</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PunjabKings?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PunjabKings</a> <a href="https://t.co/Hi7xpHLp8F">pic.twitter.com/Hi7xpHLp8F</a>
— Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/PunjabKingsIPL/status/1362718513425604615?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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SC:&nbsp;Punjab Kings got Dawid Malan for just INR 1.5 crore. Did you expect him to go for just&nbsp;INR 1.5 crore given he is the no. 1 T20I batsman?&nbsp;&nbsp;

Satish Menon: We were actually pretty surprised to get Dawid so early. Maybe the combination of other teams played a role.&nbsp;Sometimes&nbsp;when your name pops up in the auction play a role too.&nbsp;He is a quality player and someone who will give us the quality and solidity in the middle order, which we felt was missing. His numbers speak for&nbsp;himself;&nbsp;he has been&nbsp;a top player when it comes to T20 cricket for a while.&nbsp;We have no doubts about the quality Dawid will bring to Punjab Kings.&nbsp;

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✨ 𝐍𝐨. 𝟏 𝐓𝟐𝟎𝐈 𝐛𝐚𝐭𝐬𝐦𝐚𝐧 - 𝐃𝐚𝐰𝐢𝐝 𝐌𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐧✨ 
 
Can’t wait to watch him smash them 🔥 biggies this <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2021</a> 🍿<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SaddaPunjab?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SaddaPunjab</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PunjabKings?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PunjabKings</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/dmalan29?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@dmalan29</a> <a href="https://t.co/BWh4fzeyTl">pic.twitter.com/BWh4fzeyTl</a>
— Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/PunjabKingsIPL/status/1365534627507527681?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 27, 2021</a></blockquote>
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SC: What are your thoughts on a highly-rated talent in Shahrukh Khan?&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Satish Menon: Shahrukh Khan is a really exciting talent. A player we had a good look at from domestic tournaments. The way he recently played in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy was a glimpse of what he is capable of and we are confident that he is someone who will be there for us for a long. Shahrukh has the ability to finish games and we were looking at someone with similar traits.&nbsp;Really happy to get him.&nbsp;

SC:&nbsp;As a CEO, how involved are you when it comes to locking on players and staff?&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Satish Menon: The maximum work is done by the analysts. We have a good set of analysts who work really hard in shortlisting the names of players.&nbsp;Every area is looked at thoroughly, the traits, qualities, current form, and many such things. We are not that involved in that part but yes, as a CEO my&nbsp;work is to look at what the team management is looking for, what the analysts&nbsp;are working at – this is just for the player shortlisting part before the auction.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<img alt="Punjab Kings" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e45747d8-ff4d-4776-9073-2c098d6ba1da" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/EuhodjkUYAAlDR-_0.jpg" />

SC: BCCI is considering hosting IPL in India with fans. After playing in the UAE, behind closed doors, how big would it be for Punjab Kings and other franchises to host fans again?&nbsp;&nbsp;

Satish Menon: As I said earlier, we&nbsp;can’t complain. If IPL takes place in India and with fans, then we would be more than delighted&nbsp;about it. We missed fans last season but with the safety of everyone the paramount, we want to make sure&nbsp;the tournament is held safely. But if fans are allowed in the&nbsp;stands,&nbsp;then we will make sure that&nbsp;everyone enjoys the games and tournament safely. &nbsp;

The mini-auction for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, which was held in Chennai on February 18, lived up to the expectations of the fans as an action-packed event enthralled the fans with surprises and excitement.

The mini-auction for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, which was held in Chennai on February 18, lived up to the expectations of the fans as an action-packed event enthralled the fans with surprises and excitement. The Punjab franchise went into the mini-auction not only with the biggest purse but with a revamped brand identity as well. A new name and logo to freshen up things as Kings XI Punjab was renamed to Punjab Kings as the franchise commences a new journey in the world of IPL. With a purse of INR 53.1 crore in the auction, Punjab Kings were expected to sign some big-name players and the franchise lived up to the expectations. Not only did Punjab Kings sign the world’s number one T20I player, but they also signed two of the brightest Australian talents when it comes to the shortest format of the game. On top of that, Punjab Kings roped in a couple of domestic talents who are known for their exploits in T20 cricket. As the 14th edition of the Indian Premier League approaches after the completion of mini-auction, Punjab Kings CEO, Satish Menon, exclusively spoke to WION’s Subhayan Chakraborty as he discussed the rebranding of the Punjab franchise, the big-name signings in the auction, growth of Punjab Kings since the inaugural edition of IPL, and much more. Below are the excerpts: Subhayan Chakraborty: What made the franchise go ahead with a new logo and name, and what was the idea behind it? Satish Menon: The new name and logo were in process for some time. It is not something we changed overnight. We felt it was the right time to refresh things up and give fans something new. Initially, our idea was to revamp the Punjab franchise’s branding in 2022 but with new franchises likely to join from next season onwards, we felt this season was the best time to make the most out of it as the new franchises would naturally be promoting themselves when they are launched. We are delighted with the response to the new name and logo from everyone. Punjab Kings is a more evolved brand name along with our new logo. We wanted to focus on the core brand. Having said that, the change in logo and name is not about shifting our focus from our ethos. It is more about celebrating unity as a family. The new logo has modern elements in it. Nave andaaz hor wakhre josh de naal 🎺 swagat karo #PunjabKings da 💥👑🤩#SaddaPunjab pic.twitter.com/IVvmsx56Qb — Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) February 17, 2021 × SC: How do you look at Punjab Kings’ growth as a franchise in the last decade? Satish Menon: It has grown massively. When the IPL was introduced to this country and the cricket community, we were entering unknown territory. India is a cricket crazy nation; people love the sport. As a brand, we have seen tremendous growth in terms of the number of followers not only in India but worldwide. The love and passion for our franchise have just grown despite us not winning silverware, which reflects the loyalty of our fanbase. “I am pretty sure the new name will bring us good fortune this year!” 💥#CaptainPunjab, we are pretty much sure, too! 🥰#SaddaPunjab #PunjabKings @klrahul11 pic.twitter.com/edIJyFNmv1 — Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) February 18, 2021 × SC: Punjab Kings have played some good cricket over the years but one thing which is missing is silverware. What do you make of the team's failure to win titles despite trying so many team combinations in the past and now? Satish Menon: Winning and losing are part and parcel of cricket or any other sport. As you said, we have played some good cricket but we have always been looking to improve and take that next step forward. IPL is top quality and there is only one winner. We obviously want to lift the trophy but at the same time, we want our fans and viewers to enjoy good cricket. Punjab as a team has come close to be in the final stages of the tournament or even win the IPL but it is the failure in the last phases that have hurt us as a team. We are confident in our team, players and everyone associated with it and hope to break the deadlock. SC: Punjab Kings made some big-name buys in Jhye Richardson, Riley Meredith, Moises Henriques, Dawid Malan - How content are you with how the auction went for Punjab? Satish Menon: Really content. We almost got everyone we wanted. In mini-auctions or auctions, there will be cases where you miss a key target or two but in hindsight, we are really happy with the players we bought during the auction. The players we bought have a good blend of youth and experience. The staff and team management are happy with the outcome of the auction. Presenting #SaddaSquad for the season! 🦁👑 Khush ho tussi❓🥰#SaddaPunjab #PunjabKings #IPLAuction2021 pic.twitter.com/9sxgNsq0zu — Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) February 18, 2021 × SC: How challenging is it to go into the auction without a confirmed venue for the tournament? Satish Menon: It is obviously challenging but we can’t complain in today’s world. We are thankful to be able to get a tournament like IPL going. The BCCI and all the franchises gave their best shot for the last edition amid the pandemic and we all are glad to pull it off. Credit to everyone involved. Coming to the auction, we have built our team keeping every challenge in mind. The players will be ready for it so will be everyone associated with Punjab Kings. SC: What was the thought process behind buying Jhye Richardson for INR 14 crore? Satish Menon: Jhye was always on our list. He is one of the finest components with the ball in white-ball cricket. We stretched ourselves for Chris Morris but Rajasthan Royals got hold of him. Jhye’s ability to bowl at any stage of the match gives us the flexibility we were looking for. And obviously, he is a very handy player with the bat as well. We are really excited to witness Jhye in Punjab Kings jersey in IPL. Say Hi to Jhye! 🙋‍♂️ Who takes wickets for fun, our newly recruited Richardson! 🥰#SaddaPunjab #PunjabKings pic.twitter.com/Hi7xpHLp8F — Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) February 19, 2021 × SC: Punjab Kings got Dawid Malan for just INR 1.5 crore. Did you expect him to go for just INR 1.5 crore given he is the no. 1 T20I batsman? Satish Menon: We were actually pretty surprised to get Dawid so early. Maybe the combination of other teams played a role. Sometimes when your name pops up in the auction play a role too. He is a quality player and someone who will give us the quality and solidity in the middle order, which we felt was missing. His numbers speak for himself; he has been a top player when it comes to T20 cricket for a while. We have no doubts about the quality Dawid will bring to Punjab Kings. ✨ 𝐍𝐨. 𝟏 𝐓𝟐𝟎𝐈 𝐛𝐚𝐭𝐬𝐦𝐚𝐧 - 𝐃𝐚𝐰𝐢𝐝 𝐌𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐧✨ Can’t wait to watch him smash them 🔥 biggies this #IPL2021 🍿#SaddaPunjab #PunjabKings @dmalan29 pic.twitter.com/BWh4fzeyTl — Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) February 27, 2021 × SC: What are your thoughts on a highly-rated talent in Shahrukh Khan? Satish Menon: Shahrukh Khan is a really exciting talent. A player we had a good look at from domestic tournaments. The way he recently played in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy was a glimpse of what he is capable of and we are confident that he is someone who will be there for us for a long. Shahrukh has the ability to finish games and we were looking at someone with similar traits. Really happy to get him. SC: As a CEO, how involved are you when it comes to locking on players and staff? Satish Menon: The maximum work is done by the analysts. We have a good set of analysts who work really hard in shortlisting the names of players. Every area is looked at thoroughly, the traits, qualities, current form, and many such things. We are not that involved in that part but yes, as a CEO my work is to look at what the team management is looking for, what the analysts are working at – this is just for the player shortlisting part before the auction. SC: BCCI is considering hosting IPL in India with fans. After playing in the UAE, behind closed doors, how big would it be for Punjab Kings and other franchises to host fans again? Satish Menon: As I said earlier, we can’t complain. If IPL takes place in India and with fans, then we would be more than delighted about it. We missed fans last season but with the safety of everyone the paramount, we want to make sure the tournament is held safely. But if fans are allowed in the stands, then we will make sure that everyone enjoys the games and tournament safely.

Exclusive: Punjab Kings squad built keeping every challenge in mind: CEO Satish Menon to WION

Former Barcelona president Josep Bartomeu, chief executive Oscar Grau and legal head&nbsp;Roman Ponti have been arrested by the police for their role in the much-talked-about BarcaGate scandal, where the Spanish club reportedly hired and overpaid a company to smear some of the club's footballers, including Lionel Messi, and political opponents.

Police on Monday raided the offices of FC Barcelona while carrying several arrests. The massive&nbsp;development comes just six days ahead of Barcelona presidential elections, a Catalan regional police spokesman told AFP.

Spain's Cadena Ser radio reported that one of those arrested was former Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu, who had resigned in October 2020, along with&nbsp;CEO Oscar Grau and the club's head of legal services. However, the police said that the operation was being run by officers from the financial crimes unit.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atletico-hold-la-liga-rivals-at-bay-with-tight-villarreal-win-367029" hreflang="en">Atletico hold La Liga rivals at bay with tight Villarreal win</a>

In 2020, it was claimed that the Spanish giants had paid a whopping sum to a social media company in a bid to carry online criticism of important club figures in what turned out to be a scandalous 'Barcagate'.

Allegedly, the likes of Lionel Messi, Pep Guardiola, Xavi and Gerard Pique were among those targeted by I3 Ventures in a three-year smear campaign'. The reason behind the attacks included Messi's reluctance to pen&nbsp;a new deal at the Camp Nou while iconic defender Pique was attacked for his project to revamp the Davis Cup.

However, Barcelona's then-president Bartomeu had denied the accusations. However, eight Barcelona members decided to launch an official police complaint which resulted in an investigation.&nbsp;

Emili Rousaud, who resigned as Barcelona vice president in March last year,&nbsp;said in an interview with RAC1: "If the auditors tell us the cost of these services is 100,000 euros and we have paid one million, it means someone has had their hand in the till." The club took legal action against him.

Rousaud was among six Barca executives to leave their posts, with a joint letter citing the controversy as a key issue needing to be resolved.

Bartomeu said the company had been hired only to monitor posts on social media and announced an internal audit by&nbsp;PricewaterhouseCoopers, which cleared the club of financial corruption in July.

"Let one thing be clear," Bartomeu said. "To the question: Have we commissioned the monitoring of social networks? The answer is yes.

"To the question: Have we commissioned to discredit people or institutions through social networks? The answer is no and we will take action against all those who accuse us of that."

Former Barcelona president Josep Bartomeu, chief executive Oscar Grau and legal head Roman Ponti have been arrested by the police for their role in the much-talked-about BarcaGate scandal, where the Spanish club reportedly hired and overpaid a company to smear some of the club's footballers, including Lionel Messi, and political opponents.

Former Barcelona president Josep Bartomeu, chief executive Oscar Grau and legal head Roman Ponti have been arrested by the police for their role in the much-talked-about BarcaGate scandal, where the Spanish club reportedly hired and overpaid a company to smear some of the club's footballers, including Lionel Messi, and political opponents. Police on Monday raided the offices of FC Barcelona while carrying several arrests. The massive development comes just six days ahead of Barcelona presidential elections, a Catalan regional police spokesman told AFP. Spain's Cadena Ser radio reported that one of those arrested was former Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu, who had resigned in October 2020, along with CEO Oscar Grau and the club's head of legal services. However, the police said that the operation was being run by officers from the financial crimes unit. ALSO READ: Atletico hold La Liga rivals at bay with tight Villarreal win In 2020, it was claimed that the Spanish giants had paid a whopping sum to a social media company in a bid to carry online criticism of important club figures in what turned out to be a scandalous 'Barcagate'. Allegedly, the likes of Lionel Messi, Pep Guardiola, Xavi and Gerard Pique were among those targeted by I3 Ventures in a three-year smear campaign'. The reason behind the attacks included Messi's reluctance to pen a new deal at the Camp Nou while iconic defender Pique was attacked for his project to revamp the Davis Cup. However, Barcelona's then-president Bartomeu had denied the accusations. However, eight Barcelona members decided to launch an official police complaint which resulted in an investigation. Emili Rousaud, who resigned as Barcelona vice president in March last year, said in an interview with RAC1: "If the auditors tell us the cost of these services is 100,000 euros and we have paid one million, it means someone has had their hand in the till." The club took legal action against him. Rousaud was among six Barca executives to leave their posts, with a joint letter citing the controversy as a key issue needing to be resolved. Bartomeu said the company had been hired only to monitor posts on social media and announced an internal audit by PricewaterhouseCoopers, which cleared the club of financial corruption in July. "Let one thing be clear," Bartomeu said. "To the question: Have we commissioned the monitoring of social networks? The answer is yes. "To the question: Have we commissioned to discredit people or institutions through social networks? The answer is no and we will take action against all those who accuse us of that."

Ex Barcelona president Josep Bartomeu arrested over 'Barcagate' scandal against Lionel Messi & Co

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