As Ravichandran Ashwin completed his fifth Test century in the ongoing second Test between India and England at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, non-striker Mohammed Siraj celebrated&nbsp;by jumping and fist-pumping on air as the video of his celebration went viral on social media platforms.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Siraj ground out 12 deliveries before Ashwin got to his fifth Test century in what were some nervy moments for not only Ashwin but also for the entire crowd at&nbsp;Chepauk.&nbsp;The Indian pacer had to face the likes of Moeen Ali and Jack Leach on a turning track on Day 3 of the ongoing Chennai Test but ground out the balls to survive.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ashwin took a while to get to his century but Siraj made sure to not lose his wickets as it would have denied Ashwin a well-deserved century on a challenging track. However, Ashwin got to his century after a mistimed shot as a thick edge beat the slips to race towards the boundary rope towards the third-man region.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While Indian players and staff gave a rousing ovation to Ashwin from the dressing room, it was Siraj's celebration that caught the eyes of netizens.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravichandran-ashwin-is-one-of-the-greatest-stats-prove-it-363775" hreflang="en">Ravichandran Ashwin is one of the greatest - stats prove it!</a>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{51ffcb26-8df0-4871-aad1-496073a1f491}{248}" paraid="2006917155" >Here's how social media reacted to Mohammed Siraj's celebration after Ashwin's century in Chennai:</h2>

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The way Siraj celebrated the hundred of Ashwin makes him so special. <a href="https://t.co/hYJcEda89y">pic.twitter.com/hYJcEda89y</a>
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) <a href="https://twitter.com/CricCrazyJohns/status/1361253763923668993?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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A moment to cherish forever! <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashwinravi99</a> gets his Test💯 in Chennai and Md. Siraj erupts in joy. The dressing room stands up to applaud.🙌🏾 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Paytm?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@paytm</a> <a href="https://t.co/ykrBhsiTbl">pic.twitter.com/ykrBhsiTbl</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1361260111902072832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Oh man look at Siraj ❤ 
 
This team is ❤❤❤❤ <a href="https://t.co/LpucU4kwhJ">pic.twitter.com/LpucU4kwhJ</a>
— jd (@j_dhillon7) <a href="https://twitter.com/j_dhillon7/status/1361253947172745218?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Siraj's reaction to Ashwin's hundred is wonderful ❤ 
 
Maybe his teammates do like him after all.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> <a href="https://t.co/BS9MGFG37C">pic.twitter.com/BS9MGFG37C</a>
— Wisden (@WisdenCricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/WisdenCricket/status/1361260791681470473?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/thats-how-you-bat-on-dustbowl-twitter-explodes-after-kohli-ashwin-register-50s-on-beach-chennai-pitch-363725" hreflang="en">'That's how you bat on dustbowl': Twitter explodes after Kohli, Ashwin register 50s on 'beach' Chennai pitch</a>

With his century on Monday, Ashwin surpassed the likes of Gary Sobers, Jacques Kallis, Shakib Al Hasan and Mushtaq Mohammad to achieve a fifer and a century.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While Sobers, Kallis, Shakib, Mushtaq all had achieved the unique double of a fifer and a century in Test cricket twice,&nbsp;Ashwin with his century and heroic effort with the ball in the second Test against England in Chennai, has now completed the feat thrice. Only Ian Botham had achieved the landmark five times in his Test career.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, England need 482 runs to win the second Test in Chennai but with the conditions&nbsp;favouring&nbsp;Indian bowlers, a series&nbsp;equaliser&nbsp;is on the cards.&nbsp;&nbsp;

As Ravichandran Ashwin completed his fifth Test century in the ongoing second Test between India and England at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, non-striker Mohammed Siraj celebrated by jumping and fist-pumping on air as the video of his celebration went viral on social media platforms.

As Ravichandran Ashwin completed his fifth Test century in the ongoing second Test between India and England at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, non-striker Mohammed Siraj celebrated by jumping and fist-pumping on air as the video of his celebration went viral on social media platforms. Siraj ground out 12 deliveries before Ashwin got to his fifth Test century in what were some nervy moments for not only Ashwin but also for the entire crowd at Chepauk. The Indian pacer had to face the likes of Moeen Ali and Jack Leach on a turning track on Day 3 of the ongoing Chennai Test but ground out the balls to survive. Ashwin took a while to get to his century but Siraj made sure to not lose his wickets as it would have denied Ashwin a well-deserved century on a challenging track. However, Ashwin got to his century after a mistimed shot as a thick edge beat the slips to race towards the boundary rope towards the third-man region. While Indian players and staff gave a rousing ovation to Ashwin from the dressing room, it was Siraj's celebration that caught the eyes of netizens. ALSO READ: Ravichandran Ashwin is one of the greatest - stats prove it! Here's how social media reacted to Mohammed Siraj's celebration after Ashwin's century in Chennai: The way Siraj celebrated the hundred of Ashwin makes him so special. pic.twitter.com/hYJcEda89y — Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) February 15, 2021 × A moment to cherish forever! @ashwinravi99 gets his Test💯 in Chennai and Md. Siraj erupts in joy. The dressing room stands up to applaud.🙌🏾 #TeamIndia #INDvENG @paytm pic.twitter.com/ykrBhsiTbl — BCCI (@BCCI) February 15, 2021 × Oh man look at Siraj ❤ This team is ❤❤❤❤ pic.twitter.com/LpucU4kwhJ — jd (@j_dhillon7) February 15, 2021 × Siraj's reaction to Ashwin's hundred is wonderful ❤ Maybe his teammates do like him after all.#INDvAUS pic.twitter.com/BS9MGFG37C — Wisden (@WisdenCricket) February 15, 2021 × ALSO READ: 'That's how you bat on dustbowl': Twitter explodes after Kohli, Ashwin register 50s on 'beach' Chennai pitch With his century on Monday, Ashwin surpassed the likes of Gary Sobers, Jacques Kallis, Shakib Al Hasan and Mushtaq Mohammad to achieve a fifer and a century. While Sobers, Kallis, Shakib, Mushtaq all had achieved the unique double of a fifer and a century in Test cricket twice, Ashwin with his century and heroic effort with the ball in the second Test against England in Chennai, has now completed the feat thrice. Only Ian Botham had achieved the landmark five times in his Test career. Meanwhile, England need 482 runs to win the second Test in Chennai but with the conditions favouring Indian bowlers, a series equaliser is on the cards.

Watch: Mohammed Siraj's celebration wins hearts as R Ashwin completes his 5th Test century

Pakistan Prime Minister and former captain of the Pakistan cricket team, Imran Khan has lauded the Indian cricket team as he said that India's turnaround to become world beaters is due to the improvement in basic cricket structure.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Imran Khan further said that it takes time for a structure to come to become fruitful and added that he is confident that Pakistan cricket team will flourish in future as well.&nbsp;Imran said that Pakistan had always been a good side but couldn't dominate for long due to poor cricket structure.&nbsp;

"Look at India today, they are becoming a top team in the world because they improved their structure although we have more talent," Imran said, talking to the media in Islamabad.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fleeting-view-prime-minister-narendra-modi-cheers-for-team-india-from-the-skies-363552" hreflang="en">'Fleeting view': Prime Minister Narendra Modi cheers for Team India from the skies</a>

"It takes time for a structure to work and polish talent but I am confident our team will become world beaters," he added.&nbsp;

The Pakistan PM then said that while he is not able to take time out to watch live cricket matches&nbsp;due to his busy schedule, he is looking forward to witness Pakistan cricket team improve their performances on the field gradually.&nbsp;

"Honestly speaking I am not able to spare time for cricket and have not even watched the matches but now that our basic cricket structure has been changed things will improve gradually," he said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/different-challenges-gambhir-names-2-key-england-batsmen-india-should-watchout-for-363514" hreflang="en">'Different challenges': Gambhir names 2 key England batsmen India should watchout for</a>

Imran&nbsp;had led Pakistan to its only World Cup triumph in the year 1992 and is regarded as one of the finest all-rounders and captains to have played the gentlemen's sport.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/fired-tear-gas-on-employees-to-test-it-as-it-had-been-unused-for-a-long-time-pakistan-minister-363748">Fired tear gas on employees to 'test' it, was unused for long: Pak minister</a>

After winning the elections in 2018, Imran roped in Ehsan Mani, former ICC president, to lead the Pakistan Cricket Board. Since then, the Pakistan cricketing structure has witnessed a bit of revamping with the country also&nbsp;hosting international teams for bilateral series alongside the Pakistan Super League.

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Pakistan Prime Minister and former captain of the Pakistan cricket team, Imran Khan has lauded the Indian cricket team as he said that India's turnaround to become world beaters is due to the improvement in basic cricket structure.

Pakistan Prime Minister and former captain of the Pakistan cricket team, Imran Khan has lauded the Indian cricket team as he said that India's turnaround to become world beaters is due to the improvement in basic cricket structure. Imran Khan further said that it takes time for a structure to come to become fruitful and added that he is confident that Pakistan cricket team will flourish in future as well. Imran said that Pakistan had always been a good side but couldn't dominate for long due to poor cricket structure. "Look at India today, they are becoming a top team in the world because they improved their structure although we have more talent," Imran said, talking to the media in Islamabad. ALSO READ: 'Fleeting view': Prime Minister Narendra Modi cheers for Team India from the skies "It takes time for a structure to work and polish talent but I am confident our team will become world beaters," he added. The Pakistan PM then said that while he is not able to take time out to watch live cricket matches due to his busy schedule, he is looking forward to witness Pakistan cricket team improve their performances on the field gradually. "Honestly speaking I am not able to spare time for cricket and have not even watched the matches but now that our basic cricket structure has been changed things will improve gradually," he said. ALSO READ: 'Different challenges': Gambhir names 2 key England batsmen India should watchout for Imran had led Pakistan to its only World Cup triumph in the year 1992 and is regarded as one of the finest all-rounders and captains to have played the gentlemen's sport. Also Read | Fired tear gas on employees to 'test' it, was unused for long: Pak minister After winning the elections in 2018, Imran roped in Ehsan Mani, former ICC president, to lead the Pakistan Cricket Board. Since then, the Pakistan cricketing structure has witnessed a bit of revamping with the country also hosting international teams for bilateral series alongside the Pakistan Super League.

Pakistan PM Imran Khan gives thumbs up to 'top team' India

Indian batsman KL Rahul on Monday gained a spot to reach the second position in the latest ICC Men's T20I Player Rankings while South African spinner Tabraiz Shamsi jumped to a career-best second position among bowlers.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Pakistan wicketkeeper-batsman Mohammad Rizwan, after his heroics against South Africa, toppled many to race to the 42nd&nbsp;place as he helped his side win the three-match T20I series 2-1. Shamsi, who&nbsp;was the highest wicket-taker in the T20I series against Pakistan including a four-wicket-haul in the series finale, overtook the likes of Adam Zampa, Adil Rashid and Mujeeb&nbsp;Ur Rahman to get within three points of top-ranked Rashid Khan.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/when-ball-starts-to-turn-sunil-gavaskar-hammers-critics-for-slamming-chennai-pitch-in-2nd-test-363703" hreflang="en">'When ball starts to turn...': Sunil Gavaskar hammers critics for slamming Chennai pitch in 2nd Test</a>

Whereas Rizwan, who ended up as the highest run-scorer with 197 runs including a 104 not-out, lifted him 116 slots to career-best 42 position. He was also the player of the series.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Pakistan's Haider Ali moved 13 spots to 137 position&nbsp;whereas Shaheen Shah Afridi is now ranked 11th&nbsp;in the T20I Player Ranking for bowlers. Whereas Usman Qadir has been ranked 92.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravi-ashwin-overtakes-harbhajan-singh-in-elite-list-after-dismissing-ben-stokes-363543" hreflang="en">Ravi Ashwin overtakes Harbhajan Singh in elite list after dismissing Ben Stokes</a>

South Africa's&nbsp;Reeza&nbsp;Hendricks helped him move to 17 while David Miller gained seven places to mote to 22nd&nbsp;position in the rankings.&nbsp;&nbsp;

However, there are no changes in the ICC Men's Team Rankings in the series with Pakistan remaining in the fourth position despite gaining one point. South Africa, on the other hand, have lost one point and remain fifth in the standings.&nbsp;

Indian batsman KL Rahul on Monday gained a spot to reach the second position in the latest ICC Men's T20I Player Rankings while South African spinner Tabraiz Shamsi jumped to a career-best second position among bowlers.

Indian batsman KL Rahul on Monday gained a spot to reach the second position in the latest ICC Men's T20I Player Rankings while South African spinner Tabraiz Shamsi jumped to a career-best second position among bowlers. Pakistan wicketkeeper-batsman Mohammad Rizwan, after his heroics against South Africa, toppled many to race to the 42nd place as he helped his side win the three-match T20I series 2-1. Shamsi, who was the highest wicket-taker in the T20I series against Pakistan including a four-wicket-haul in the series finale, overtook the likes of Adam Zampa, Adil Rashid and Mujeeb Ur Rahman to get within three points of top-ranked Rashid Khan. ALSO READ: 'When ball starts to turn...': Sunil Gavaskar hammers critics for slamming Chennai pitch in 2nd Test Whereas Rizwan, who ended up as the highest run-scorer with 197 runs including a 104 not-out, lifted him 116 slots to career-best 42 position. He was also the player of the series. Pakistan's Haider Ali moved 13 spots to 137 position whereas Shaheen Shah Afridi is now ranked 11th in the T20I Player Ranking for bowlers. Whereas Usman Qadir has been ranked 92. ALSO READ: Ravi Ashwin overtakes Harbhajan Singh in elite list after dismissing Ben Stokes South Africa's Reeza Hendricks helped him move to 17 while David Miller gained seven places to mote to 22nd position in the rankings. However, there are no changes in the ICC Men's Team Rankings in the series with Pakistan remaining in the fourth position despite gaining one point. South Africa, on the other hand, have lost one point and remain fifth in the standings.

ICC T20I Rankings: KL Rahul jumps to 2nd spot; Shamsi, Rizwan achieve career-best position

Indian skipper Virat Kohli and Ravichandran Ashwin on Monday produced batting masterclass on a 'beach' Chennai pitch as the duo scored&nbsp;a half-century each to extend India's lead in the second innings to over 350 runs.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While England batsmen were outplayed by the Indian bowlers on Day 2, Ashwin and Kohli showed the visitors how to bat on a 'rank turner' as the duo tackled the English spin duo of Jack Leach and Moeen Ali with ease.&nbsp;&nbsp;

With former England cricketers such as Michael Vaughan and Matt Prior&nbsp;criticising&nbsp;the Chennai pitch on Day 2 of the match after England were bowled out for a paltry 134,&nbsp;the Indian batters, especially Kohli and Ashwin produced batting of the highest caliber to register their respective half-century.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/when-ball-starts-to-turn-sunil-gavaskar-hammers-critics-for-slamming-chennai-pitch-in-2nd-test-363703" hreflang="en">'When ball starts to turn...': Sunil Gavaskar hammers critics for slamming Chennai pitch in 2nd Test</a>

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He may not get a 100 but this <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> innings has been an masterclass on this pitch ... its already 100 balls of batting that all coaches should show players on how to play on a Beach ... <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsENG</a>
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelVaughan/status/1361208244258103302?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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It’s entertaining cricket as things are happening all the time but let’s be honest this Pitch is a shocker .. Not making any excuses as India have been better but this isn’t a Test Match 5 day prepared Pitch ... <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a>
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelVaughan/status/1360843448639778818?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Twitterati celebrated half-centuries of Kohli and Ashwin as India look on verge of winning the second Test to&nbsp;equalise&nbsp;the series 1-1.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-pm-imran-khan-gives-thumbs-up-to-top-team-india-363684" hreflang="en">Pakistan PM Imran Khan gives thumbs up to 'top team' India</a>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{a4c37608-d81b-4dc3-a8c5-da75ccfa279b}{26}" paraid="1977482560" >Here's how Twitterati reacted to the half-century by Kohli and Ashwin</h2>

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He’s the greatest batter in the game of cricket playing right now - <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a>! 
 
England didn’t pick their best team so can’t complain. 
 
Missing Jimmy, BIG TIME!
— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) <a href="https://twitter.com/KP24/status/1361210956991369216?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Sometimes in Test Cricket a 50 you make in challenging conditions and situation will be more satisfying than a 200 you make on a flat pitch. I am sure this is one such innings for <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> A master class on how to play on a turning track. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsENG</a> <a href="https://t.co/8NYs7fTMAk">pic.twitter.com/8NYs7fTMAk</a>
— VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) <a href="https://twitter.com/VVSLaxman281/status/1361213759889416196?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Fifty in second innings in first Test. 
Fifty in second innings in second Test. 
 
Both was tough pitch to bat on and best of the best stands tall for India - Virat Kohli.
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) <a href="https://twitter.com/CricCrazyJohns/status/1361210930525179907?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Kohli is majestic. This is a masterclass in how to bat on a ploughed field. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a>
— Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) <a href="https://twitter.com/piersmorgan/status/1361207061128839168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Appreciation tweet for Ash Anna
— A (@_shortarmjab_) <a href="https://twitter.com/_shortarmjab_/status/1361211855209852931?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Ash Anna giving English team their own medicine ' sweep and reverse sweep ' . <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsENG</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pitch?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pitch</a> <a href="https://t.co/13XNXRw50B">pic.twitter.com/13XNXRw50B</a>
— Kushal Gowda (@Kushalg77328189) <a href="https://twitter.com/Kushalg77328189/status/1361197641594408962?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Ash anna showing england batsman how to bat on turners rather than crying <a href="https://t.co/Od7in2K9xw">pic.twitter.com/Od7in2K9xw</a>
— Siddarth (@Adelaide__141) <a href="https://twitter.com/Adelaide__141/status/1361216705171656706?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Not only did Kohli and Ashwin shut critics of the Chennai pitch with their&nbsp;quality batting display, former Indian skipper Sunil Gavaskar also lashed out at the critics for&nbsp;unnecessary&nbsp;slamming the quality of the strip in Chennai.&nbsp;

"We saw how Rohit Sharma getting 150, and yesterday he was getting close to ball and batting. This criticism (on pitch) is pretty warranted," Gavaskar said on Star Sports.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Some of them are saying that - but you have a seaming pitch in England. Australia&nbsp;get&nbsp;dismissed for 46 - the ball keeps seeming all throughout. No one talks about that. It's always about Indian pitches, and when the ball starts to turn, people pose a problem," he added.&nbsp;

With Kohli and Ashwin still batting, the Indian duo would be looking to convert their 50+ scores to a century to make this Test even more special, moreover in front of the fans.&nbsp;

Indian skipper Virat Kohli and Ravichandran Ashwin on Monday produced batting masterclass on a 'beach' Chennai pitch as the duo scored a half-century each to extend India's lead in the second innings to over 350 runs.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli and Ravichandran Ashwin on Monday produced batting masterclass on a 'beach' Chennai pitch as the duo scored a half-century each to extend India's lead in the second innings to over 350 runs. While England batsmen were outplayed by the Indian bowlers on Day 2, Ashwin and Kohli showed the visitors how to bat on a 'rank turner' as the duo tackled the English spin duo of Jack Leach and Moeen Ali with ease. With former England cricketers such as Michael Vaughan and Matt Prior criticising the Chennai pitch on Day 2 of the match after England were bowled out for a paltry 134, the Indian batters, especially Kohli and Ashwin produced batting of the highest caliber to register their respective half-century. ALSO READ: 'When ball starts to turn...': Sunil Gavaskar hammers critics for slamming Chennai pitch in 2nd Test He may not get a 100 but this @imVkohli innings has been an masterclass on this pitch ... its already 100 balls of batting that all coaches should show players on how to play on a Beach ... #INDvsENG — Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) February 15, 2021 × It’s entertaining cricket as things are happening all the time but let’s be honest this Pitch is a shocker .. Not making any excuses as India have been better but this isn’t a Test Match 5 day prepared Pitch ... #INDvENG — Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) February 14, 2021 × Twitterati celebrated half-centuries of Kohli and Ashwin as India look on verge of winning the second Test to equalise the series 1-1. ALSO READ: Pakistan PM Imran Khan gives thumbs up to 'top team' India Here's how Twitterati reacted to the half-century by Kohli and Ashwin He’s the greatest batter in the game of cricket playing right now - @imVkohli! England didn’t pick their best team so can’t complain. Missing Jimmy, BIG TIME! — Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) February 15, 2021 × Sometimes in Test Cricket a 50 you make in challenging conditions and situation will be more satisfying than a 200 you make on a flat pitch. I am sure this is one such innings for @imVkohli A master class on how to play on a turning track. #INDvsENG pic.twitter.com/8NYs7fTMAk — VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) February 15, 2021 × Fifty in second innings in first Test. Fifty in second innings in second Test. Both was tough pitch to bat on and best of the best stands tall for India - Virat Kohli. — Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) February 15, 2021 × Kohli is majestic. This is a masterclass in how to bat on a ploughed field. #INDvENG — Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) February 15, 2021 × Appreciation tweet for Ash Anna — A (@_shortarmjab_) February 15, 2021 × Ash Anna giving English team their own medicine ' sweep and reverse sweep ' . #INDvsENG #Pitch pic.twitter.com/13XNXRw50B — Kushal Gowda (@Kushalg77328189) February 15, 2021 × Ash anna showing england batsman how to bat on turners rather than crying pic.twitter.com/Od7in2K9xw — Siddarth (@Adelaide__141) February 15, 2021 × Not only did Kohli and Ashwin shut critics of the Chennai pitch with their quality batting display, former Indian skipper Sunil Gavaskar also lashed out at the critics for unnecessary slamming the quality of the strip in Chennai. "We saw how Rohit Sharma getting 150, and yesterday he was getting close to ball and batting. This criticism (on pitch) is pretty warranted," Gavaskar said on Star Sports. "Some of them are saying that - but you have a seaming pitch in England. Australia get dismissed for 46 - the ball keeps seeming all throughout. No one talks about that. It's always about Indian pitches, and when the ball starts to turn, people pose a problem," he added. With Kohli and Ashwin still batting, the Indian duo would be looking to convert their 50+ scores to a century to make this Test even more special, moreover in front of the fans.

'That's how you bat on dustbowl': Twitter explodes after Kohli, Ashwin register 50s on 'beach' Chennai pitch

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday confirmed that all-rounder&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;Patel is available for selection for the second Test against India, to be played from February 13.&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;has recovered completely after complaining of pain in his left knee, which ruled him out of the first Test.&nbsp;&nbsp;

As a result, spinners Shahbaz Nadeem and Rahul Chahar have been drafted back to the group of standby players. Nadeem was central to widespread criticism following a lacklustre show with the ball in the opening Test against England, where he managed to pick just four wickets while conceding more than 200 runs&nbsp;in both the innings.&nbsp;

The group of standby players include wicket-keeper KS Bharat, batsmen Abhimanyu Easwaran and Priyank Panchal, and spinners Shahbaz Nadeem and Rahul Chahar.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jofra-archer-ruled-out-of-second-test-vs-india-due-to-elbow-injury-362996" hreflang="en">Jofra Archer ruled out of second Test vs India due to elbow injury</a>

<h2 lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{7b3a1ec1-46c7-448e-91d5-afcef05101c7}{196}" paraid="1408327764" xml:lang="EN-GB">BCCI statement on&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;Patel:&nbsp;</h2>

"Axar&nbsp;Patel has recovered completely and is now available for selection for the 2nd Paytm Test in Chennai against England to be played from Saturday, 13th&nbsp;February. The all-rounder had complained of pain in his left knee and was ruled out of the first Test.&nbsp;The All-India Senior Selection Committee have now withdrawn Shahbaz Nadeem and Rahul Chahar from the main squad and added the duo back to the group of standby players."&nbsp;

India Test squad:&nbsp;Virat Kohli (Captain), Rohit Sharma, Mayank Agarwal, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane (Vice-Captain), KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Wriddhiman Saha (wicket-keeper), R Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav,&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;Patel, Washington Sundar, Ishant Sharma, Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah, Md. Siraj, Shardul Thakur&nbsp;

Standby players:&nbsp;K S Bharat, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Shahbaz Nadeem, Rahul Chahar, Priyank Panchal&nbsp;

Net Bowlers:&nbsp;Ankit Rajpoot, Avesh Khan, Sandeep Warrier, Krishnappa Gowtham, Saurabh Kumar&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday confirmed that all-rounder Axar Patel is available for selection for the second Test against India, to be played from February 13.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday confirmed that all-rounder Axar Patel is available for selection for the second Test against India, to be played from February 13. Axar has recovered completely after complaining of pain in his left knee, which ruled him out of the first Test. As a result, spinners Shahbaz Nadeem and Rahul Chahar have been drafted back to the group of standby players. Nadeem was central to widespread criticism following a lacklustre show with the ball in the opening Test against England, where he managed to pick just four wickets while conceding more than 200 runs in both the innings. The group of standby players include wicket-keeper KS Bharat, batsmen Abhimanyu Easwaran and Priyank Panchal, and spinners Shahbaz Nadeem and Rahul Chahar. ALSO READ: Jofra Archer ruled out of second Test vs India due to elbow injury BCCI statement on Axar Patel: "Axar Patel has recovered completely and is now available for selection for the 2nd Paytm Test in Chennai against England to be played from Saturday, 13th February. The all-rounder had complained of pain in his left knee and was ruled out of the first Test. The All-India Senior Selection Committee have now withdrawn Shahbaz Nadeem and Rahul Chahar from the main squad and added the duo back to the group of standby players." India Test squad: Virat Kohli (Captain), Rohit Sharma, Mayank Agarwal, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane (Vice-Captain), KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Wriddhiman Saha (wicket-keeper), R Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Ishant Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Md. Siraj, Shardul Thakur Standby players: K S Bharat, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Shahbaz Nadeem, Rahul Chahar, Priyank Panchal Net Bowlers: Ankit Rajpoot, Avesh Khan, Sandeep Warrier, Krishnappa Gowtham, Saurabh Kumar

Axar Patel fit for second Test vs England; Shahbaz Nadeem, Rahul Chahar drafted back to standby list

England pacer Jofra Archer will miss the second Test against India, scheduled to be played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai&nbsp;from February 13. Archer will miss the much-awaited second Test owning to a discomfort in his right elbow.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Archer has been treated with an injection in his right elbow with the England team hoping that the treatment will allow his condition to settle down quickly while allowing the speedster to return to action in time for the third Test in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;

While it is yet to be seen who replaces Archer in the playing XI, pacer Olly Stone could be in contention if England decide to rest veteran pacer James Anderson from the playing XI. Off-spin all-rounder Moeen Ali is also in contention to be in the playing XI. However, it is expected that Anderson and Stuart Broad will pair up for the second Test against India following Archer's injury.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistans-mohammad-rizwan-joins-brendon-mccullum-in-unique-list-after-maiden-t20i-century-362993" hreflang="en">Pakistan's Mohammad Rizwan joins Brendon McCullum in unique list after maiden T20I century</a>

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) in a statement said: "Jofra Archer will miss the second Test against India in Chennai starting on Saturday after having an injection in his right elbow.&nbsp;

"The injection follows discomfort the fast bowler experienced during the 227-run win in the first Test at the same venue.&nbsp;The issue is not related to any previous injury and it is hoped the treatment will allow the condition to settle down quickly, allowing the player to return to action in time for the third Test in Ahmedabad."&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/worst-surface-ive-seen-jofra-archer-on-day-5-pitch-in-first-test-against-india-362921" hreflang="en">'Worst surface I've seen': Jofra Archer on Day 5 pitch in first Test against India</a>

Meanwhile, England are guaranteed to make another change in the line-up with wicket-keeper Ben Foakes replacing Jos Buttler in the playing XI. Buttler was relieved of his duties following the first Test against India, which England won by 227 runs. He will return for the five-match T20I series against the Men in Blue after&nbsp;being named in the squad on Thursday.&nbsp;

England pacer Jofra Archer will miss the second Test against India, scheduled to be played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai from February 13. Archer will miss the much-awaited second Test owning to a discomfort in his right elbow.

England pacer Jofra Archer will miss the second Test against India, scheduled to be played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai from February 13. Archer will miss the much-awaited second Test owning to a discomfort in his right elbow. Archer has been treated with an injection in his right elbow with the England team hoping that the treatment will allow his condition to settle down quickly while allowing the speedster to return to action in time for the third Test in Ahmedabad. While it is yet to be seen who replaces Archer in the playing XI, pacer Olly Stone could be in contention if England decide to rest veteran pacer James Anderson from the playing XI. Off-spin all-rounder Moeen Ali is also in contention to be in the playing XI. However, it is expected that Anderson and Stuart Broad will pair up for the second Test against India following Archer's injury. ALSO READ: Pakistan's Mohammad Rizwan joins Brendon McCullum in unique list after maiden T20I century The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) in a statement said: "Jofra Archer will miss the second Test against India in Chennai starting on Saturday after having an injection in his right elbow. "The injection follows discomfort the fast bowler experienced during the 227-run win in the first Test at the same venue. The issue is not related to any previous injury and it is hoped the treatment will allow the condition to settle down quickly, allowing the player to return to action in time for the third Test in Ahmedabad." ALSO READ: 'Worst surface I've seen': Jofra Archer on Day 5 pitch in first Test against India Meanwhile, England are guaranteed to make another change in the line-up with wicket-keeper Ben Foakes replacing Jos Buttler in the playing XI. Buttler was relieved of his duties following the first Test against India, which England won by 227 runs. He will return for the five-match T20I series against the Men in Blue after being named in the squad on Thursday.

Jofra Archer ruled out of second Test vs India due to elbow injury

Pakistan wicketkeeper-batsman&nbsp;Mohammad Rizwan joined former New Zealand skipper Brendon McCullum in an exclusive list of&nbsp;glovesmen&nbsp;to have scored a century in all three formats of cricket -&nbsp;Test, ODI and T20I.&nbsp;

Rizwan smashed an unbeaten&nbsp;104 runs off just 64 deliveries laced with six boundaries and seven sixes to help Pakistan post 169 runs on the scoreboard in the first T20I against South Africa at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Rizwan scored his maiden Test ton, against South Africa, in the recently concluded two-match Test series, which Pakistan won 2-0. The Pakistan wicket-keeper batsman has two ODI centuries – both against Australia in the year 2019,&nbsp;&nbsp;

Before Rizwan, McCullum was the only wicketkeeper-batsman to have scored&nbsp;at least&nbsp;a century across formats.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-announce-squad-for-t20i-series-against-india-as-jos-buttler-dawid-malan-return-362923" hreflang="en">England announce squad for T20I series against India as Jos Buttler, Dawid Malan return</a>

Rizwan started his knock at a&nbsp;slow rate, scoring run a ball, before upping the ante in the second half of the innings as he smashed the Proteas bowlers all over the park at the Gaddafi Stadium. He was received by his teammates in the dressing room amid standing ovation as he took&nbsp;Pakistan to a competitive total.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2 lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{b5610589-4d2f-4bf3-8a5f-f9c39a85da6f}{180}" paraid="1384806614" xml:lang="EN-GB">Mohammed Rizwan's innings breakdown:&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

First 30 Balls - 101.1&nbsp;&nbsp;

After 30 Balls - 192.3&nbsp;&nbsp;

S/R in all T20s&nbsp;&nbsp;

First 30 Balls - 110.9&nbsp;&nbsp;

After 30 Balls - 161.9

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/anil-kumble-and-irfan-pathan-back-wasim-jaffer-over-communal-bias-controversy-362885" hreflang="en">Anil Kumble and Irfan Pathan back Wasim Jaffer over communal bias controversy</a>&nbsp;

Rizwan, with his blistering knock, became the first Pakistan batsman to hammer seven sixes in an innings while also becoming the second Pakistan batsman, after Ahmed Shehzad, to score a ton in T20Is.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Pakistan wicketkeeper-batsman Mohammad Rizwan joined former New Zealand skipper Brendon McCullum in an exclusive list of glovesmen to have scored a century in all three formats of cricket - Test, ODI and T20I.

Pakistan wicketkeeper-batsman Mohammad Rizwan joined former New Zealand skipper Brendon McCullum in an exclusive list of glovesmen to have scored a century in all three formats of cricket - Test, ODI and T20I. Rizwan smashed an unbeaten 104 runs off just 64 deliveries laced with six boundaries and seven sixes to help Pakistan post 169 runs on the scoreboard in the first T20I against South Africa at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. Rizwan scored his maiden Test ton, against South Africa, in the recently concluded two-match Test series, which Pakistan won 2-0. The Pakistan wicket-keeper batsman has two ODI centuries – both against Australia in the year 2019, Before Rizwan, McCullum was the only wicketkeeper-batsman to have scored at least a century across formats. ALSO READ: England announce squad for T20I series against India as Jos Buttler, Dawid Malan return Rizwan started his knock at a slow rate, scoring run a ball, before upping the ante in the second half of the innings as he smashed the Proteas bowlers all over the park at the Gaddafi Stadium. He was received by his teammates in the dressing room amid standing ovation as he took Pakistan to a competitive total. Mohammed Rizwan's innings breakdown: First 30 Balls - 101.1 After 30 Balls - 192.3 S/R in all T20s First 30 Balls - 110.9 After 30 Balls - 161.9 ALSO READ: Anil Kumble and Irfan Pathan back Wasim Jaffer over communal bias controversy Rizwan, with his blistering knock, became the first Pakistan batsman to hammer seven sixes in an innings while also becoming the second Pakistan batsman, after Ahmed Shehzad, to score a ton in T20Is.

Pakistan's Mohammad Rizwan joins Brendon McCullum in unique list after maiden T20I century

FIFA president Gianni Infantino on Thursday said that he strongly backs an expanded Club World Cup in a bid to boost international competitions between clubs.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"We are focusing on world competition in the Club World Cup, for example, to have not only one club present from each confederation, but more participation because we need to boost club football all over the world,"&nbsp;Infaninto&nbsp;told AFP.&nbsp;

In the year 2021, there are two Club World Cups being held with Qatar currently hosting the ongoing edition that was delayed from&nbsp;COVID-19 hit 2020. The second Club World Cup tournament for the year 2021 is scheduled to be held in Japan in December.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-bosses-demand-twitter-facebook-to-tackle-havens-of-abuse-362973" hreflang="en">Football bosses demand Twitter, Facebook to tackle 'havens of abuse'</a>

A revamped 24-team Club World Cup, including eight clubs from Europe, was due to be held in China this year.&nbsp;However, the deferment of Euro 2020 and Copa America tournaments, the expanded edition of the Club World Cup will not commence until a later date.&nbsp;

An enlarged tournament could help address growing calls for "super leagues" of top regional and global clubs -- leading European clubs are believed to be keen to create a European Super League.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Infantino did not say on Thursday when the new Club World Cup format might begin.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-see-off-swansea-to-rack-up-record-15th-straight-win-362862" hreflang="en">Manchester City see off Swansea to rack up record 15th straight win</a>

"(But) we have already decided that the new Club World Cup will be featuring 24 teams from all different continents," he told AFP.&nbsp;

"We will still have to find the right slot for the new Club World Cup with 24 teams. It's obviously not an easy challenge in this period where everything is congested anyway.&nbsp;

"If we need to wait one year longer then we'll do that."&nbsp;

&nbsp;

FIFA president Gianni Infantino on Thursday said that he strongly backs an expanded Club World Cup in a bid to boost international competitions between clubs. "We are focusing on world competition in the Club World Cup, for example, to have not only one club present from each confederation, but more participation because we need to boost club football all over the world," Infaninto told AFP.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino on Thursday said that he strongly backs an expanded Club World Cup in a bid to boost international competitions between clubs. "We are focusing on world competition in the Club World Cup, for example, to have not only one club present from each confederation, but more participation because we need to boost club football all over the world," Infaninto told AFP. In the year 2021, there are two Club World Cups being held with Qatar currently hosting the ongoing edition that was delayed from COVID-19 hit 2020. The second Club World Cup tournament for the year 2021 is scheduled to be held in Japan in December. ALSO READ: Football bosses demand Twitter, Facebook to tackle 'havens of abuse' A revamped 24-team Club World Cup, including eight clubs from Europe, was due to be held in China this year. However, the deferment of Euro 2020 and Copa America tournaments, the expanded edition of the Club World Cup will not commence until a later date. An enlarged tournament could help address growing calls for "super leagues" of top regional and global clubs -- leading European clubs are believed to be keen to create a European Super League. Infantino did not say on Thursday when the new Club World Cup format might begin. ALSO READ: Manchester City see off Swansea to rack up record 15th straight win "(But) we have already decided that the new Club World Cup will be featuring 24 teams from all different continents," he told AFP. "We will still have to find the right slot for the new Club World Cup with 24 teams. It's obviously not an easy challenge in this period where everything is congested anyway. "If we need to wait one year longer then we'll do that."

FIFA focusing on enlarged Club World Cup, says Gianni Infantino

Football chiefs in England have penned a letter to the bosses of social media giants Twitter and Facebook calling for action to tackle "havens of abuse" after a series of online racist incidents.&nbsp;&nbsp;

An open letter to the platforms’ chief executives Jack Dorsey and Mark Zuckerberg has asked them&nbsp;"for reasons of basic human decency" to address the long-term problem.&nbsp;

Swansea's Yan Dhanda was the latest to face racial abuse on social media platform following his team's defeat against Manchester City in the FA Cup. A number of players including the likes of Anthony Martial, Marcus Rashford, Axel&nbsp;Tuanzebe&nbsp;along with Chelsea's Reece James have been subjected to racial abuse on social media in recent weeks.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"The language used is debasing, often threatening and illegal," said the letter. "It causes distress to the recipients and the vast majority of people who abhor racism, sexism and discrimination of any kind.&nbsp;

"We have had many meetings with your executives over the years but the reality is your platforms remain havens for abuse."&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/coup-de-france-neymar-jr-injured-as-paris-st-germain-reach-round-of-32-362845" hreflang="en">Coup de France: Neymar Jr. injured as Paris St Germain reach round of 32</a>

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A letter to <a href="https://twitter.com/Facebook?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Facebook</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/Twitter?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Twitter</a>: <a href="https://t.co/tH4i1XfufA">https://t.co/tH4i1XfufA</a> 
 
✍️ The FA 
✍️ <a href="https://twitter.com/premierleague?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@premierleague</a> 
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✍️ PGMOL 
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Signatories of the letter include&nbsp;Football Association chief executive Mark Bullingham, Premier League CEO Richard Masters and referees chief Mike Riley.&nbsp;

"Your inaction has created the belief in the minds of the anonymous perpetrators that they are beyond reach," they said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-see-off-swansea-to-rack-up-record-15th-straight-win-362862" hreflang="en">Manchester City see off Swansea to rack up record 15th straight win</a>

The much-talked-about letter calls on the platforms to develop mechanism to tackle, filter and block posts with racist or discriminatory content while taking down offending material. An improvement in verification process to identify the account holders has&nbsp;also been asked&nbsp;by the football chiefs.&nbsp;

Photo-blogging platform Instagram, owned by Facebook, on Wednesday announced new measures in a bid to tackle online abuses.&nbsp;

The letter from football chiefs acknowledged the steps being taken but said "far more is needed to drive change".&nbsp;&nbsp;

Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said tech giants could face hefty fines under new legislation.&nbsp;

"We're introducing a new age of accountability for these (social media) companies through our upcoming Online Safety Bill and this could see huge fines for firms which fail to clearly and transparently protect their users," he said.&nbsp;

(With AFP inputs)&nbsp;

Football chiefs in England have penned a letter to the bosses of social media giants Twitter and Facebook calling for action to tackle "havens of abuse" after a series of online racist incidents.

Football chiefs in England have penned a letter to the bosses of social media giants Twitter and Facebook calling for action to tackle "havens of abuse" after a series of online racist incidents. An open letter to the platforms’ chief executives Jack Dorsey and Mark Zuckerberg has asked them "for reasons of basic human decency" to address the long-term problem. Swansea's Yan Dhanda was the latest to face racial abuse on social media platform following his team's defeat against Manchester City in the FA Cup. A number of players including the likes of Anthony Martial, Marcus Rashford, Axel Tuanzebe along with Chelsea's Reece James have been subjected to racial abuse on social media in recent weeks. "The language used is debasing, often threatening and illegal," said the letter. "It causes distress to the recipients and the vast majority of people who abhor racism, sexism and discrimination of any kind. "We have had many meetings with your executives over the years but the reality is your platforms remain havens for abuse." ALSO READ: Coup de France: Neymar Jr. injured as Paris St Germain reach round of 32 A letter to @Facebook and @Twitter: https://t.co/tH4i1XfufA ✍️ The FA ✍️ @premierleague ✍️ @EFL ✍️ @BarclaysFAWSL ✍️ @FAWomensChamp ✍️ @PFA ✍️ @LMA_Managers ✍️ PGMOL ✍️ @kickitout pic.twitter.com/QcF73DZ5qy — The FA (@FA) February 11, 2021 × Signatories of the letter include Football Association chief executive Mark Bullingham, Premier League CEO Richard Masters and referees chief Mike Riley. "Your inaction has created the belief in the minds of the anonymous perpetrators that they are beyond reach," they said. ALSO READ: Manchester City see off Swansea to rack up record 15th straight win The much-talked-about letter calls on the platforms to develop mechanism to tackle, filter and block posts with racist or discriminatory content while taking down offending material. An improvement in verification process to identify the account holders has also been asked by the football chiefs. Photo-blogging platform Instagram, owned by Facebook, on Wednesday announced new measures in a bid to tackle online abuses. The letter from football chiefs acknowledged the steps being taken but said "far more is needed to drive change". Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said tech giants could face hefty fines under new legislation. "We're introducing a new age of accountability for these (social media) companies through our upcoming Online Safety Bill and this could see huge fines for firms which fail to clearly and transparently protect their users," he said. (With AFP inputs)

Football bosses demand Twitter, Facebook to tackle 'havens of abuse'

Birthday boy Daniil Medvedev added another win to his red-hot streak Thursday as the Russian fourth seed demolished Roberto Carballes Baena to ease into the Australian Open third round.

Medvedev, who turned 25 on Thursday, powered past the Spaniard 6-2, 7-5, 6-1 on John Cain Arena for his 16th straight win dating back to November.

Along the way, the world number four has won the Paris 1000, the ATP Finals in London and the ATP Cup with Russia in the lead-up to the opening Grand Slam of the year.

"Sometimes in tennis, as in other sport, you just have the momentum and feel like you can do a lot of things," he said of his blistering form.&nbsp;

"Once you lose it it's tougher, so I'm just trying to keep it as much as possible.

"So far it has been working and hoping it won't stop for a long time."&nbsp;

He will next play Serbian 28th seed Filip Krajinovic, who eased past Spain's Pablo Andujar in four sets.

Medvedev's sizzling form makes him a serious contender to claim a maiden Grand Slam title and he was in fine touch against Carballes Baena, ranked 99.

He quickly took charge, returning well and dominating at the baseline and net to comfortably take he opening set.

The Russian was pressed harder in the second but that was as good as it got for Carballes Baena, who lost focus and was punished by a man at the top of his game.

Medvedev is bidding not only for a maiden Grand Slam title but to become only the third Russian man to win a major after Yevgeny Kafelnikov and Marat Safin.

He has been knocking on the door for some time, reaching the 2019 US Open final -- where he lost in five sets to Rafael Nadal -- and the last four in New York in 2020.

But he has yet to go beyond the round of 16 at Melbourne Park.

Birthday boy Daniil Medvedev added another win to his red-hot streak Thursday as the Russian fourth seed demolished Roberto Carballes Baena to ease into the Australian Open third round.

Birthday boy Daniil Medvedev added another win to his red-hot streak Thursday as the Russian fourth seed demolished Roberto Carballes Baena to ease into the Australian Open third round. Medvedev, who turned 25 on Thursday, powered past the Spaniard 6-2, 7-5, 6-1 on John Cain Arena for his 16th straight win dating back to November. Along the way, the world number four has won the Paris 1000, the ATP Finals in London and the ATP Cup with Russia in the lead-up to the opening Grand Slam of the year. "Sometimes in tennis, as in other sport, you just have the momentum and feel like you can do a lot of things," he said of his blistering form. "Once you lose it it's tougher, so I'm just trying to keep it as much as possible. "So far it has been working and hoping it won't stop for a long time." He will next play Serbian 28th seed Filip Krajinovic, who eased past Spain's Pablo Andujar in four sets. Medvedev's sizzling form makes him a serious contender to claim a maiden Grand Slam title and he was in fine touch against Carballes Baena, ranked 99. He quickly took charge, returning well and dominating at the baseline and net to comfortably take he opening set. The Russian was pressed harder in the second but that was as good as it got for Carballes Baena, who lost focus and was punished by a man at the top of his game. Medvedev is bidding not only for a maiden Grand Slam title but to become only the third Russian man to win a major after Yevgeny Kafelnikov and Marat Safin. He has been knocking on the door for some time, reaching the 2019 US Open final -- where he lost in five sets to Rafael Nadal -- and the last four in New York in 2020. But he has yet to go beyond the round of 16 at Melbourne Park.

Medvedev celebrates birthday with 16th straight win

The England National Selectors on Thursday named a 16-player squad for the men’s T20I matches in India in March. Jos Buttler returns to the squad after being relieved of his duties for the remainder of the Test series against the Virat Kohli-led side.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The likes of Jofra Archer, Jonny Bairstow, Sam Billings, Sam Curran, Chris Jordan, Ben Stokes all have been named in the England squad while the likes of Jason Roy, Adil Rashid&nbsp;have been included in the team for the shortest format of the game.&nbsp;

The touring party depart on Friday 26 February and will play five IT20s in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/anil-kumble-and-irfan-pathan-back-wasim-jaffer-over-communal-bias-controversy-362885" hreflang="en">Anil Kumble and Irfan Pathan back Wasim Jaffer over communal bias controversy</a>

<h2 lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{9385eea1-e116-4a59-9b6a-afc7bcaaf88c}{246}" paraid="1408838986" xml:lang="EN-GB">England Men’s T20I Squad vs India:&nbsp;</h2>

Eoin Morgan&nbsp;(Middlesex) (captain),&nbsp;Moeen Ali&nbsp;(Worcestershire),&nbsp;Jofra Archer&nbsp;(Sussex),&nbsp;Jonathan Bairstow&nbsp;(Yorkshire),&nbsp;Sam Billings&nbsp;(Kent),&nbsp;Jos Buttler&nbsp;(Lancashire),&nbsp;Sam Curran&nbsp;(Surrey),&nbsp;Tom Curran&nbsp;(Surrey),&nbsp;Chris Jordan&nbsp;(Sussex),&nbsp;Liam Livingstone&nbsp;(Lancashire),&nbsp;Dawid Malan&nbsp;(Yorkshire),&nbsp;Adil Rashid&nbsp;(Yorkshire),&nbsp;Jason Roy&nbsp;(Surrey),&nbsp;Ben Stokes&nbsp;(Durham),&nbsp;Reece Topley&nbsp;(Surrey),&nbsp;Mark Wood&nbsp;(Durham).&nbsp;

Reserves:&nbsp;

Jake Ball&nbsp;(Nottinghamshire),&nbsp;Matt Parkinson&nbsp;(Lancashire).&nbsp;

The squad for the three ODIs that follow the T2I series will be announced in due course.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-former-indian-batting-coach-sanjay-bangar-joins-royal-challengers-bangalore-as-batting-consultant-362869" hreflang="en">IPL: Former Indian batting coach Sanjay Bangar joins Royal Challengers Bangalore as batting consultant</a>

<h2 lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{9417555d-e8f8-4aa1-ba2c-0e84d266cdc2}{182}" paraid="514574826" xml:lang="EN-GB">India vs England, T20I series: Full Schedule</h2>

12 March: 1st T20I India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

14 March: 2nd T20I India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

16 March: 3rd T20I India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

18 March: 4th T20I India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

20 March: 5th T20I India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The England National Selectors on Thursday named a 16-player squad for the men’s T20I matches in India in March. Jos Buttler returns to the squad after being relieved of his duties for the remainder of the Test series against the Virat Kohli-led side.

The England National Selectors on Thursday named a 16-player squad for the men’s T20I matches in India in March. Jos Buttler returns to the squad after being relieved of his duties for the remainder of the Test series against the Virat Kohli-led side. The likes of Jofra Archer, Jonny Bairstow, Sam Billings, Sam Curran, Chris Jordan, Ben Stokes all have been named in the England squad while the likes of Jason Roy, Adil Rashid have been included in the team for the shortest format of the game. The touring party depart on Friday 26 February and will play five IT20s in Ahmedabad. ALSO READ: Anil Kumble and Irfan Pathan back Wasim Jaffer over communal bias controversy England Men’s T20I Squad vs India: Eoin Morgan (Middlesex) (captain), Moeen Ali (Worcestershire), Jofra Archer (Sussex), Jonathan Bairstow (Yorkshire), Sam Billings (Kent), Jos Buttler (Lancashire), Sam Curran (Surrey), Tom Curran (Surrey), Chris Jordan (Sussex), Liam Livingstone (Lancashire), Dawid Malan (Yorkshire), Adil Rashid (Yorkshire), Jason Roy (Surrey), Ben Stokes (Durham), Reece Topley (Surrey), Mark Wood (Durham). Reserves: Jake Ball (Nottinghamshire), Matt Parkinson (Lancashire). The squad for the three ODIs that follow the T2I series will be announced in due course. ALSO READ: IPL: Former Indian batting coach Sanjay Bangar joins Royal Challengers Bangalore as batting consultant India vs England, T20I series: Full Schedule 12 March: 1st T20I India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad 14 March: 2nd T20I India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad 16 March: 3rd T20I India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad 18 March: 4th T20I India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad 20 March: 5th T20I India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad

England announce squad for T20I series against India as Jos Buttler, Dawid Malan return

Pakistan are set to host South Africa in the first T20I of the three-match series at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Thursday.&nbsp;Pakistan would be looking to carry their rich run of form after clean-sweeping South Africa 2-0 in the two-match Test series.&nbsp;&nbsp;

South Africa are set to field an inexperienced side&nbsp;led by Heinrich Klaasen&nbsp;with&nbsp;George Linde, Dwaine Pretorius, Tabraiz Shamsi and&nbsp;Lutho&nbsp;Sipamla&nbsp;the only four players in the T20I squad from the Test series.&nbsp;Pakistan will also miss few of their key names in&nbsp;Mohammad Hafeez, Shadab Khan and Imad Wasim.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Pakistan at home can be a gritty opponent and with South Africa set to name many inexperienced players in the line-up, the hosts are favourites to start the T20I series with a win.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/with-you-indian-legend-anil-kumble-comes-in-support-of-wasim-jaffer-362885" hreflang="en">'With you': Indian legend Anil Kumble comes in support of Wasim Jaffer</a>

"We know we're up against a really strong Pakistan team. We do respect that. At the same time, in T20 cricket if you prep well and you've got a great team, there are opportunities to still lose,” said David Miller ahead of the T20I series opener in Lahore.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2 aria-level="2" lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{8c78531e-bb2f-4331-831e-b5ba786b8991}{13}" paraid="1845462680" role="heading" xml:lang="EN-GB">When and what time will&nbsp;Pakistan vs South Africa 1st&nbsp;T20I begin?&nbsp;</h2>

Pakistan vs South Africa 1st&nbsp;T20I will begin at&nbsp;6:30 PM IST on December 22. The toss will take place at&nbsp;6:00&nbsp;PM IST.&nbsp;

<h2 aria-level="2" lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{8c78531e-bb2f-4331-831e-b5ba786b8991}{44}" paraid="96966392" role="heading" xml:lang="EN-GB">Where will&nbsp;Pakistan vs South Africa 1st&nbsp;T20I take place?&nbsp;</h2>

Pakistan vs South Africa 1st&nbsp;T20I match will be held at the&nbsp;Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.&nbsp;

<h2 aria-level="2" lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{8c78531e-bb2f-4331-831e-b5ba786b8991}{72}" paraid="1812042757" role="heading" xml:lang="EN-GB">Which channel will telecast&nbsp;Pakistan vs South Africa 1st&nbsp;T20I on TV?&nbsp;</h2>

Pakistan vs South Africa 1st&nbsp;T20I will&nbsp;be telecasted on Sony Ten 2 and Sony Ten 2 HD.&nbsp;

<h2 aria-level="2" lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{8c78531e-bb2f-4331-831e-b5ba786b8991}{100}" paraid="545557766" role="heading" xml:lang="EN-GB">How to watch the live streaming of&nbsp;Pakistan vs South Africa 1st&nbsp;T20I?&nbsp;</h2>

The&nbsp;Pakistan vs South Africa 1st&nbsp;T20I&nbsp;match can be live-streamed on the&nbsp;Sony Liv.&nbsp;

Pakistan are set to host South Africa in the first T20I of the three-match series at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Thursday. Pakistan would be looking to carry their rich run of form after clean-sweeping South Africa 2-0 in the two-match Test series.

Pakistan are set to host South Africa in the first T20I of the three-match series at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Thursday. Pakistan would be looking to carry their rich run of form after clean-sweeping South Africa 2-0 in the two-match Test series. South Africa are set to field an inexperienced side led by Heinrich Klaasen with George Linde, Dwaine Pretorius, Tabraiz Shamsi and Lutho Sipamla the only four players in the T20I squad from the Test series. Pakistan will also miss few of their key names in Mohammad Hafeez, Shadab Khan and Imad Wasim. Pakistan at home can be a gritty opponent and with South Africa set to name many inexperienced players in the line-up, the hosts are favourites to start the T20I series with a win. ALSO READ: 'With you': Indian legend Anil Kumble comes in support of Wasim Jaffer "We know we're up against a really strong Pakistan team. We do respect that. At the same time, in T20 cricket if you prep well and you've got a great team, there are opportunities to still lose,” said David Miller ahead of the T20I series opener in Lahore. When and what time will Pakistan vs South Africa 1st T20I begin? Pakistan vs South Africa 1st T20I will begin at 6:30 PM IST on December 22. The toss will take place at 6:00 PM IST. Where will Pakistan vs South Africa 1st T20I take place? Pakistan vs South Africa 1st T20I match will be held at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. Which channel will telecast Pakistan vs South Africa 1st T20I on TV? Pakistan vs South Africa 1st T20I will be telecasted on Sony Ten 2 and Sony Ten 2 HD. How to watch the live streaming of Pakistan vs South Africa 1st T20I? The Pakistan vs South Africa 1st T20I match can be live-streamed on the Sony Liv.

Pakistan vs South Africa 1st T20I, Live Streaming: When and where to watch PAK vs SA in India?

Unnathi Aiyappa set two national records in the Girls&nbsp;U&nbsp;-16 (80m Hurdles/300m) category as Inspire Institute of Sport’s 10-member team bagged a rich haul of medals (7 golds, 1 silver, 1 bronze) at the 36th National Junior Athletics Championships in Guwahati. 
 
Pavana Nagraj (U-16, High Jump) and Yashwanth Kumar (U-20, 110m Hurdles) rewrote the national record books en route to gold medal winning performances.&nbsp;They both were also&nbsp;named the Best Athletes in their respective age groups at the event. 
 
The experienced trio of Jeswin Aldrin (U-20, Long Jump), Praveen Chithravel (U-20, Triple Jump) and Rohit Yadav (U-20, Javelin Throw) also picked up gold medals in their respective events.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tsitsipas-survives-five-set-marathon-to-reach-last-32-in-melbourne-362863" hreflang="en">Tsitsipas survives five-set marathon to reach last 32 in Melbourne</a> 
 
IIS Head Coach for Track &amp; Field Antony Yaich welcomed the opportunity for the athletes to compete after the Covid-19 pandemic had enforced a lengthy break from competition. “This was a very important meet for the group since this was the first time in over a year that they could compete against the best in India,” Yaich said. 
 
“I’m happy because it was a good opening for our athletes and some of the performances were really top level. As they compete more, I’m expecting them all to do better in subsequent meets and improve on their current bests.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-chief-yoshiro-mori-to-resign-japanese-media-reports-362804" hreflang="en">Tokyo 2020 chief Yoshiro Mori to resign? Japanese media reports</a> 
 
Completing IIS’s glowing medal tally in Assam was Darshan Shaktivel, who took home a silver in the U-18 Long Jump and Sharvari Parulekar won bronze in the U-20 Triple Jump event.

<h2 data-ogsc="rgb(32, 32, 32)">RESULTS OF IIS ATHLETES</h2>

<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="604">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">NAME</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">CATEGORY</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">EVENT</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">MEDAL</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">TIME/DISTANCE</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">Pavana Nagraj</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">U-16</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">High Jump</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">Gold</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">1.73m&nbsp;(NR)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td nowrap="nowrap" rowspan="2">Unnathi Aiyappa</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap" rowspan="2">U-16</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">80m Hurdles</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">Gold</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">11.50s (NR)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">300m</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">Gold</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">40.11s&nbsp;(NR)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">Yashwanth Kumar</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">U-20</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">110m Hurdles</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">Gold</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">13.92s&nbsp;(NR)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">Jeswin Aldrin</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">U-20</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">Long Jump</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">Gold</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">7.47m</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">Praveen Chithravel</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">U-20</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">Triple Jump</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">Gold</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">15.82m</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">Rohit Yadav</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">U-20</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">Javelin Throw</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">Gold</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">77.86m</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">Darshan Shaktivel</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">U-18</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">Long Jump</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">Silver</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">7.01m</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">Sharvari Parulekar</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">U-20</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">Triple Jump</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">Bronze</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">12.17m</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

Unnathi Aiyappa set two national records in the Girls U -16 (80m Hurdles/300m) category as Inspire Institute of Sport’s 10-member team bagged a rich haul of medals (7 golds, 1 silver, 1 bronze) at the 36th National Junior Athletics Championships in Guwahati.

Unnathi Aiyappa set two national records in the Girls U -16 (80m Hurdles/300m) category as Inspire Institute of Sport’s 10-member team bagged a rich haul of medals (7 golds, 1 silver, 1 bronze) at the 36th National Junior Athletics Championships in Guwahati. Pavana Nagraj (U-16, High Jump) and Yashwanth Kumar (U-20, 110m Hurdles) rewrote the national record books en route to gold medal winning performances. They both were also named the Best Athletes in their respective age groups at the event. The experienced trio of Jeswin Aldrin (U-20, Long Jump), Praveen Chithravel (U-20, Triple Jump) and Rohit Yadav (U-20, Javelin Throw) also picked up gold medals in their respective events. ALSO READ: Tsitsipas survives five-set marathon to reach last 32 in Melbourne IIS Head Coach for Track & Field Antony Yaich welcomed the opportunity for the athletes to compete after the Covid-19 pandemic had enforced a lengthy break from competition. “This was a very important meet for the group since this was the first time in over a year that they could compete against the best in India,” Yaich said. “I’m happy because it was a good opening for our athletes and some of the performances were really top level. As they compete more, I’m expecting them all to do better in subsequent meets and improve on their current bests.” ALSO READ: Tokyo 2020 chief Yoshiro Mori to resign? Japanese media reports Completing IIS’s glowing medal tally in Assam was Darshan Shaktivel, who took home a silver in the U-18 Long Jump and Sharvari Parulekar won bronze in the U-20 Triple Jump event. RESULTS OF IIS ATHLETES NAME CATEGORY EVENT MEDAL TIME/DISTANCE Pavana Nagraj U-16 High Jump Gold 1.73m (NR) Unnathi Aiyappa U-16 80m Hurdles Gold 11.50s (NR) 300m Gold 40.11s (NR) Yashwanth Kumar U-20 110m Hurdles Gold 13.92s (NR) Jeswin Aldrin U-20 Long Jump Gold 7.47m Praveen Chithravel U-20 Triple Jump Gold 15.82m Rohit Yadav U-20 Javelin Throw Gold 77.86m Darshan Shaktivel U-18 Long Jump Silver 7.01m Sharvari Parulekar U-20 Triple Jump Bronze 12.17m

Inspire Institute of Sport athletes set 4 national records at Junior Nationals

Manchester United and Arsenal's first-leg matches of the UEFA Europa League round of 32 matches have been shifted to Italy as COVID-19 restrictions continue to hit travel across Europe.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While Arsenal will travel to the&nbsp;Stadio&nbsp;Olimpico&nbsp;in Rome to take on Benfica, Manchester United will lock horns with Spain's Real Sociedad in their away leg at Juventus’ Allianz Stadium in Turin.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In a statement, UEFA said that both the matches would take place as originally schedule on February 18.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bizarre-overtly-sexual-photograph-of-england-cricket-team-huddle-blocked-by-facebook-362743" hreflang="en">Bizarre! 'Overtly sexual' photograph of England cricket team huddle blocked by Facebook</a>

Whereas Molde's home match against Hoffenheim was also moved to Villareal's Estadio de la Ceramica.&nbsp;

Manchester United's game was move to the home of Italian champions – Juventus – after Spanish government extended a ban on flights from the UK, Brazil and South Africa to March 2 in a big to curb the spread of new COVID-19 variants.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Arsenal cannot fly to Lisbon as the UK has ruled out that only essential travel to and&nbsp;fro&nbsp;from Portugal is allowed.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/instagram-vows-strong-action-after-racist-abuse-of-premier-league-stars-362719" hreflang="en">Instagram vows strong action after racist abuse of Premier League stars</a>

Spain's decision to extend the travel ban from the UK also forced Chelsea’s visit to Atletico Madrid in the UEFA Champions League to be shifted to Bucharest. The match is scheduled to be played on February 23.&nbsp;

Manchester United and Arsenal's first-leg matches of the UEFA Europa League round of 32 matches have been shifted to Italy as COVID-19 restrictions continue to hit travel across Europe.

Manchester United and Arsenal's first-leg matches of the UEFA Europa League round of 32 matches have been shifted to Italy as COVID-19 restrictions continue to hit travel across Europe. While Arsenal will travel to the Stadio Olimpico in Rome to take on Benfica, Manchester United will lock horns with Spain's Real Sociedad in their away leg at Juventus’ Allianz Stadium in Turin. In a statement, UEFA said that both the matches would take place as originally schedule on February 18. ALSO READ: Bizarre! 'Overtly sexual' photograph of England cricket team huddle blocked by Facebook Whereas Molde's home match against Hoffenheim was also moved to Villareal's Estadio de la Ceramica. Manchester United's game was move to the home of Italian champions – Juventus – after Spanish government extended a ban on flights from the UK, Brazil and South Africa to March 2 in a big to curb the spread of new COVID-19 variants. Meanwhile, Arsenal cannot fly to Lisbon as the UK has ruled out that only essential travel to and fro from Portugal is allowed. ALSO READ: Instagram vows strong action after racist abuse of Premier League stars Spain's decision to extend the travel ban from the UK also forced Chelsea’s visit to Atletico Madrid in the UEFA Champions League to be shifted to Bucharest. The match is scheduled to be played on February 23.

Manchester United, Arsenal Europa League matches moved to Italy

A photograph gallery containing a picture of England cricket team in a huddle among other images was blocked by Facebook for containing "overtly sexual" content.&nbsp;&nbsp;

According to a report in BBC, the owner of the digital photo gallery,&nbsp;Mike Hall has insisted that none of the 400 photographs contained any "risque" content but were taken down by Facebook following his attempt to use them as ads on the social media platform.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Among the other 400 images that were surprisingly taken down by Facebook included a frame of a cow standing on a field, a Hong Kong timeline, a high-rise&nbsp;buidling, firework display. The reason provided by Facebook&nbsp;to ban the images ranged from&nbsp;“promoting weapons” to “overtly sexual” content.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-2nd-test-shahbaz-nadeem-set-to-be-dropped-as-axar-patel-returns-in-nets-362727" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG 2nd Test: Shahbaz Nadeem set to be dropped as Axar Patel returns in nets</a>

Notably, Facebook's ad policies restrict the promotion of "adult" products and services – a rule that the England cricket team bizarrely found itself on the wrong side of.&nbsp;

However, the ads were later restored with Facebook apologising to the photographer as they admitted that the photographs were "restricted in error”.&nbsp;

The image of the England cricket team was taken clicked during the fourth Test against India at Southampton in 2018 - a series remembered for being Alastair Cook's last Test series. The gallery contained images of a team huddle ahead of day's play&nbsp;and slip cordon featuring Root, Cook, Ben Stokes and James Anderson.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

TRENDING:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-like-walking-barefoot-on-hot-desert-shoaib-akhtars-hilariously-trolls-psl-2021-anthem-362658" hreflang="en">WATCH- 'Worst song ever': Shoaib Akhtar hilariously trolls PSL 2021 anthem</a>

“When you’re running a small business, or any business where you’re trying to figure out what’s gone wrong,” Hall&nbsp;told BBC. “You can’t have an arbitrary process with no-one to talk to. When I set up my account with&nbsp;Facebook&nbsp;I had to verify my business with them – but after that, it fell into an abyss.”&nbsp;

A photograph gallery containing a picture of England cricket team in a huddle among other images was blocked by Facebook for containing "overtly sexual" content.

A photograph gallery containing a picture of England cricket team in a huddle among other images was blocked by Facebook for containing "overtly sexual" content. According to a report in BBC, the owner of the digital photo gallery, Mike Hall has insisted that none of the 400 photographs contained any "risque" content but were taken down by Facebook following his attempt to use them as ads on the social media platform. Among the other 400 images that were surprisingly taken down by Facebook included a frame of a cow standing on a field, a Hong Kong timeline, a high-rise buidling, firework display. The reason provided by Facebook to ban the images ranged from “promoting weapons” to “overtly sexual” content. ALSO READ: IND vs ENG 2nd Test: Shahbaz Nadeem set to be dropped as Axar Patel returns in nets Notably, Facebook's ad policies restrict the promotion of "adult" products and services – a rule that the England cricket team bizarrely found itself on the wrong side of. However, the ads were later restored with Facebook apologising to the photographer as they admitted that the photographs were "restricted in error”. The image of the England cricket team was taken clicked during the fourth Test against India at Southampton in 2018 - a series remembered for being Alastair Cook's last Test series. The gallery contained images of a team huddle ahead of day's play and slip cordon featuring Root, Cook, Ben Stokes and James Anderson. TRENDING: WATCH- 'Worst song ever': Shoaib Akhtar hilariously trolls PSL 2021 anthem “When you’re running a small business, or any business where you’re trying to figure out what’s gone wrong,” Hall told BBC. “You can’t have an arbitrary process with no-one to talk to. When I set up my account with Facebook I had to verify my business with them – but after that, it fell into an abyss.”

Bizarre! 'Overtly sexual' photograph of England cricket team huddle blocked by Facebook

Veteran pacer James Anderson has said that he is "not assuming anything" as England look to rest their star bowler for the second Test against India at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, starting from February 13. Anderson could be rested for Stuart Broad, who missed the first Test due to England's&nbsp;rotation policy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The 38-year-old took the match away from India with a splendid spell of reverse-swing where he took three wickets as England won the match by 227 runs to take a 1-0 lead in the four-Test series.&nbsp;

While Anderson looks fit as ever but the paceman could be left out of the second Test, taking out the chance to add to his sensational tally of 611 Test wickets – a record for a fast bowler.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-2nd-test-shahbaz-nadeem-set-to-be-dropped-as-axar-patel-returns-in-nets-362727" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG 2nd Test: Shahbaz Nadeem set to be dropped as Axar Patel returns in nets</a>

England have a jam-packed Test schedule in 2021, culminating in an Ashes series in Australia with the coaching staff carefully managing the workload of their players.&nbsp;

"When a batsman gets in rhythm and form, they want to keep batting and keep that rhythm going, and it's the same for a bowler," said Anderson.&nbsp;

"You want to keep that going if possible, but I'm very aware that we've got four Test matches in quick succession here and there will probably be a need to rest and rotate.&nbsp;So&nbsp;I'm not assuming anything."&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-end-up-breaking-all-records-nasser-hussain-praises-joe-root-after-chennai-test-heroics-362665" hreflang="en">Will end up breaking all records: Nasser Hussain praises Joe Root after Chennai Test heroics</a>

England are set to make at least one change in their playing XI with wicket-keeper Jos Buttler set to be replaced by Ben Foakes.&nbsp;&nbsp;

England coach Chris Silverwood admitted on Wednesday: "It is hard (to leave Anderson out), he is a class act. But you'll have to wait and see.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"I'm not reluctant to change a winning team now if it's the best thing to do for the players, the team and the longevity of it."&nbsp;

The second Test between India and England will start from February 13.&nbsp;

Veteran pacer James Anderson has said that he is "not assuming anything" as England look to rest their star bowler for the second Test against India at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, starting from February 13.

Veteran pacer James Anderson has said that he is "not assuming anything" as England look to rest their star bowler for the second Test against India at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, starting from February 13. Anderson could be rested for Stuart Broad, who missed the first Test due to England's rotation policy. The 38-year-old took the match away from India with a splendid spell of reverse-swing where he took three wickets as England won the match by 227 runs to take a 1-0 lead in the four-Test series. While Anderson looks fit as ever but the paceman could be left out of the second Test, taking out the chance to add to his sensational tally of 611 Test wickets – a record for a fast bowler. ALSO READ: IND vs ENG 2nd Test: Shahbaz Nadeem set to be dropped as Axar Patel returns in nets England have a jam-packed Test schedule in 2021, culminating in an Ashes series in Australia with the coaching staff carefully managing the workload of their players. "When a batsman gets in rhythm and form, they want to keep batting and keep that rhythm going, and it's the same for a bowler," said Anderson. "You want to keep that going if possible, but I'm very aware that we've got four Test matches in quick succession here and there will probably be a need to rest and rotate. So I'm not assuming anything." ALSO READ: Will end up breaking all records: Nasser Hussain praises Joe Root after Chennai Test heroics England are set to make at least one change in their playing XI with wicket-keeper Jos Buttler set to be replaced by Ben Foakes. England coach Chris Silverwood admitted on Wednesday: "It is hard (to leave Anderson out), he is a class act. But you'll have to wait and see. "I'm not reluctant to change a winning team now if it's the best thing to do for the players, the team and the longevity of it." The second Test between India and England will start from February 13.

'I'm very aware...': James Anderson accepts he could be rested for second Test vs India

Left-arm spinner Shahbaz Nadeem is set to be dropped from the Indian playing XI for the second Test against England at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, scheduled to start from February 13. Nadeem was heavily criticised for his performance in the opening Test against England, which India lost by a massive 227-run margin.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Nadeem managed to pick just four wickets in the match while also failing to stop the run-flow from his end.&nbsp;While Nadeem's replacement in the playing XI will only be decided by Friday, according to PTI, all-rounder&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;Patel is set to replace&nbsp;him.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Axar&nbsp;missed the first Test against England due to a knee injury but is now match-fit. He has already started batting at the nets.&nbsp;

"Axar&nbsp;had a minor knee niggle and has already started batting at the nets. He is expected to start bowling during the next couple of days."&nbsp;

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"He was always first choice to play the opening Test but it will depend on skipper Virat Kohli, head coach Ravi Shastri and bowling coach Bharath Arun," a senior BCCI source told PTI on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Indian skipper Virat Kohli expressed his disappointment on Nadeem's performance during the post-match presentation where he said that Nadeem and Washington Sundar failed to maintain the pressure created by the likes of Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah, Ishant Sharma and Ravichandran Ashwin.&nbsp;Sundar, who impressed with the bat, is set to keep his place in the playing XI.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-test-rankings-india-skipper-virat-kohli-slips-to-fifth-spot-as-joe-root-enters-top-3-362638" hreflang="en">ICC Test Rankings: India skipper Virat Kohli slips to fifth spot as Joe Root enters top 3</a>

Meanwhile, the new&nbsp;Chepauk&nbsp;strip could offer turn from Day 1 itself with pressure mounting on rookie curator V Ramesh Kumar and BCCI head of pitches and grounds committee head Taposh Chatterjee after one of the flattest decks that was on offer during the first Test.&nbsp;

The second Test between India and England is set to commence from February 13.&nbsp;

Left-arm spinner Shahbaz Nadeem is set to be dropped from the Indian playing XI for the second Test against England at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, scheduled to start from February 13.

Left-arm spinner Shahbaz Nadeem is set to be dropped from the Indian playing XI for the second Test against England at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, scheduled to start from February 13. Nadeem was heavily criticised for his performance in the opening Test against England, which India lost by a massive 227-run margin. Nadeem managed to pick just four wickets in the match while also failing to stop the run-flow from his end. While Nadeem's replacement in the playing XI will only be decided by Friday, according to PTI, all-rounder Axar Patel is set to replace him. Axar missed the first Test against England due to a knee injury but is now match-fit. He has already started batting at the nets. "Axar had a minor knee niggle and has already started batting at the nets. He is expected to start bowling during the next couple of days." ALSO READ: WATCH- 'Worst song ever': Shoaib Akhtar hilariously trolls PSL 2021 anthem "He was always first choice to play the opening Test but it will depend on skipper Virat Kohli, head coach Ravi Shastri and bowling coach Bharath Arun," a senior BCCI source told PTI on Wednesday. Indian skipper Virat Kohli expressed his disappointment on Nadeem's performance during the post-match presentation where he said that Nadeem and Washington Sundar failed to maintain the pressure created by the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma and Ravichandran Ashwin. Sundar, who impressed with the bat, is set to keep his place in the playing XI. ALSO READ: ICC Test Rankings: India skipper Virat Kohli slips to fifth spot as Joe Root enters top 3 Meanwhile, the new Chepauk strip could offer turn from Day 1 itself with pressure mounting on rookie curator V Ramesh Kumar and BCCI head of pitches and grounds committee head Taposh Chatterjee after one of the flattest decks that was on offer during the first Test. The second Test between India and England is set to commence from February 13.

IND vs ENG 2nd Test: Shahbaz Nadeem set to be dropped as Axar Patel returns in nets

Social media platform Instagram on Wednesday announced new measures in an attempt to tackle online abuses following a series of "horrifying” racist attacks on Premier League footballers. The likes of Anthony Martial, Marcus Rashford, Axel&nbsp;Tuanzebe&nbsp;from Manchester United, as well as Chelsea's Reece James have been subjected to online abuses in recent weeks.&nbsp;

The photo-blogging platform said that it would remove accounts sending abusive messages.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Fadzai&nbsp;Madzingira, content policy manager at Instagram's parent company Facebook, told Britain's Press Association news agency she was "horrified" at the vitriol directed at footballers.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Currently, we will set a specific ban or what we call a block for a set amount of time when someone violates those rules and we extend that time should they continue to do so," she said.&nbsp;

"What we're announcing today is that we're taking tougher measures on people who violate those rules in Instagram direct messaging, so instead of just extending the time, we'll be removing the accounts altogether.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/meant-everything-to-me-jurgen-klopp-pays-emotional-tribute-to-mother-after-her-death-362704" hreflang="en">'Meant everything to me': Jurgen Klopp pays emotional tribute to mother after her death</a>

"That allows us to ensure that we have a lower tolerance for that sort of abuse in direct messaging and we'll be closing those accounts more quickly in Instagram direct messaging than anywhere else on the platform."&nbsp;

&nbsp;The abuse hasn't been limited to private messages as players are witnessing loads of monkey emoticons and racist terms in the comment section of their respective posts.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A number of similar accounts have been used for sending abuses, something&nbsp;Madzingira&nbsp;says Instagram continues to work on. However, she pointed&nbsp;to comment filters that can block specific words, phrases and emojis from appearing.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bayern-munich-ceos-messi-of-africa-praise-for-mohamed-salah-fuels-transfer-speculation-362679" hreflang="en">Bayern Munich CEO's 'Messi of Africa' praise for Mohamed Salah fuels transfer speculation</a>

"I think there is something about the world that we're living in where someone can go from throwing a banana peel at a player on the pitch to suddenly also waking up and opening their accounts and using this online," she said.&nbsp;

"What we're trying to address is the online aspect but there's definitely a broader conversation we need to have about what does racism in sport look like and how do we stop that sort of behaviour?"&nbsp;

Instagram said that it took immediate action on 6.5 million pieces of hate speech, including direct messages between July and September 2020.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Football Association (FA) has called for action from the British government to tackle the issue on&nbsp;priority.&nbsp;

"As a company, we've been really open,"&nbsp;Madzingira&nbsp;said. "We want to have these conversations with governments. We want to be talking about regulation."&nbsp;

(From AFP inputs)&nbsp;

Social media platform Instagram on Wednesday announced new measures in an attempt to tackle online abuses following a series of "horrifying” racist attacks on Premier League footballers.

Social media platform Instagram on Wednesday announced new measures in an attempt to tackle online abuses following a series of "horrifying” racist attacks on Premier League footballers. The likes of Anthony Martial, Marcus Rashford, Axel Tuanzebe from Manchester United, as well as Chelsea's Reece James have been subjected to online abuses in recent weeks. The photo-blogging platform said that it would remove accounts sending abusive messages. Fadzai Madzingira, content policy manager at Instagram's parent company Facebook, told Britain's Press Association news agency she was "horrified" at the vitriol directed at footballers. "Currently, we will set a specific ban or what we call a block for a set amount of time when someone violates those rules and we extend that time should they continue to do so," she said. "What we're announcing today is that we're taking tougher measures on people who violate those rules in Instagram direct messaging, so instead of just extending the time, we'll be removing the accounts altogether. ALSO READ: 'Meant everything to me': Jurgen Klopp pays emotional tribute to mother after her death "That allows us to ensure that we have a lower tolerance for that sort of abuse in direct messaging and we'll be closing those accounts more quickly in Instagram direct messaging than anywhere else on the platform." The abuse hasn't been limited to private messages as players are witnessing loads of monkey emoticons and racist terms in the comment section of their respective posts. A number of similar accounts have been used for sending abuses, something Madzingira says Instagram continues to work on. However, she pointed to comment filters that can block specific words, phrases and emojis from appearing. ALSO READ: Bayern Munich CEO's 'Messi of Africa' praise for Mohamed Salah fuels transfer speculation "I think there is something about the world that we're living in where someone can go from throwing a banana peel at a player on the pitch to suddenly also waking up and opening their accounts and using this online," she said. "What we're trying to address is the online aspect but there's definitely a broader conversation we need to have about what does racism in sport look like and how do we stop that sort of behaviour?" Instagram said that it took immediate action on 6.5 million pieces of hate speech, including direct messages between July and September 2020. The Football Association (FA) has called for action from the British government to tackle the issue on priority. "As a company, we've been really open," Madzingira said. "We want to have these conversations with governments. We want to be talking about regulation." (From AFP inputs)

Instagram vows strong action after racist abuse of Premier League stars

Jurgen Klopp's mother Elisabeth breathed her last at the age of 81 on Wednesday. The Liverpool manager will be unable to attend his mother's funeral due to COVID-19 restrictions on travel in Germany but Klopp paid a heartfelt tribute to his mother after her demise.&nbsp;

Klopp said that "she meant everything" to him and is keen to hold a "wonderful" memorial to celebrate her mother Elisabeth's life when the situation surrounding the coronavirus allows.&nbsp;

But Klopp maintains he is keen to hold a "wonderful, fitting" memorial to celebrate her life when the circumstances allow.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bayern-munich-ceos-messi-of-africa-praise-for-mohamed-salah-fuels-transfer-speculation-362679" hreflang="en">Bayern Munich CEO's 'Messi of Africa' praise for Mohamed Salah fuels transfer speculation</a>

"She meant everything to me. She was a proper mum in the best sense of the word," Klopp told German newspaper&nbsp;Schwarzwaelder&nbsp;Bote.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"As a believer in Christ, I know that she is now in a better place. Owing to these terrible times, I can’t be at the funeral, [but] as soon as circumstances allow, we’ll hold a wonderful, fitting memorial for her.”&nbsp;

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Elisabeth married Klopp's father Norbert in the year 1960. The couple have three children – Stefanie, Isolde and Jurgen. Klopp's father Norbert passed away in 2000 at the age of 66 with&nbsp;the Red manager having earlier revealed that he regrets his father not witnessing his success as a top coach in the footballing world.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atletico-madrid-v-chelsea-champions-league-match-moved-to-bucharest-uefa-362652" hreflang="en">Atletico Madrid v Chelsea Champions League match moved to Bucharest: UEFA</a>

Meanwhile, Liverpool will next face Leicester City at the Kings Power Stadium on February 13 and the Reds would be looking to get back to winning ways as a fitting tribute to Klopp's mother Elisabeth.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Liverpool are going through a two-match losing streak with both the defeats coming at the Anfield - against Manchester City, and Brighton &amp; Hove Albion.&nbsp;

Jurgen Klopp's mother Elisabeth breathed her last at the age of 81 on Wednesday. The Liverpool manager will be unable to attend his mother's funeral due to COVID-19 restrictions on travel in Germany but Klopp paid a heartfelt tribute to his mother after her demise.

Jurgen Klopp's mother Elisabeth breathed her last at the age of 81 on Wednesday. The Liverpool manager will be unable to attend his mother's funeral due to COVID-19 restrictions on travel in Germany but Klopp paid a heartfelt tribute to his mother after her demise. Klopp said that "she meant everything" to him and is keen to hold a "wonderful" memorial to celebrate her mother Elisabeth's life when the situation surrounding the coronavirus allows. But Klopp maintains he is keen to hold a "wonderful, fitting" memorial to celebrate her life when the circumstances allow. ALSO READ: Bayern Munich CEO's 'Messi of Africa' praise for Mohamed Salah fuels transfer speculation "She meant everything to me. She was a proper mum in the best sense of the word," Klopp told German newspaper Schwarzwaelder Bote. "As a believer in Christ, I know that she is now in a better place. Owing to these terrible times, I can’t be at the funeral, [but] as soon as circumstances allow, we’ll hold a wonderful, fitting memorial for her.” You’ll Never Walk Alone, Jürgen ❤️ pic.twitter.com/mjgSmXZWgn — Liverpool FC (@LFC) February 10, 2021 × Elisabeth married Klopp's father Norbert in the year 1960. The couple have three children – Stefanie, Isolde and Jurgen. Klopp's father Norbert passed away in 2000 at the age of 66 with the Red manager having earlier revealed that he regrets his father not witnessing his success as a top coach in the footballing world. ALSO READ: Atletico Madrid v Chelsea Champions League match moved to Bucharest: UEFA Meanwhile, Liverpool will next face Leicester City at the Kings Power Stadium on February 13 and the Reds would be looking to get back to winning ways as a fitting tribute to Klopp's mother Elisabeth. Liverpool are going through a two-match losing streak with both the defeats coming at the Anfield - against Manchester City, and Brighton & Hove Albion.

'Meant everything to me': Jurgen Klopp pays emotional tribute to mother after her death

Atletico Madrid's home match against Chelsea in the Champions League last-16 has been moved from Spain to Bucharest as a result of coronavirus restrictions, UEFA confirmed on Wednesday.

The first-leg tie will be staged at the Arena Nationala in the Romanian capital.

Chelsea said in a statement on their website that the date of the match, February 23, and the kick-off time (2000 GMT) would remain the same.

The second leg is scheduled to take place at Stamford Bridge in London on March 17.

It is the latest European match to be switched to a different venue as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Spanish government on Tuesday extended a ban on arrivals by air from Britain, Brazil and South Africa until March 2 over new variants.

Only legal residents or nationals of Spain and the neighbouring micro-state of Andorra are currently allowed in on flights from those countries.

In changes previously announced, Manchester City's first leg of their Champions League tie against Borussia Moenchengladbach will be played in Budapest while Liverpool's match against RB Leipzig has also been relocated to the Hungarian capital.

The Champions League, Europe's top club competition, was heavily disrupted by the pandemic last season.

It was placed on hold when sport across Europe was halted in March.&nbsp;

UEFA then took the decision to complete the competition as a "Final Eight" tournament in Lisbon in August, without spectators. Bayern Munich beat Paris Saint-Germain 1-0 in the final.

There have also been changes in this season's Europa League as a result of virus rules.

Arsenal and Manchester United have had the first legs of their last-32 matches moved.

The Gunners will take on Benfica in Rome, while United's meeting with Real Sociedad has been switched from San Sebastian to Turin.

Atletico Madrid's home match against Chelsea in the Champions League last-16 has been moved from Spain to Bucharest as a result of coronavirus restrictions, UEFA confirmed on Wednesday.

Atletico Madrid's home match against Chelsea in the Champions League last-16 has been moved from Spain to Bucharest as a result of coronavirus restrictions, UEFA confirmed on Wednesday. The first-leg tie will be staged at the Arena Nationala in the Romanian capital. Chelsea said in a statement on their website that the date of the match, February 23, and the kick-off time (2000 GMT) would remain the same. The second leg is scheduled to take place at Stamford Bridge in London on March 17. It is the latest European match to be switched to a different venue as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. The Spanish government on Tuesday extended a ban on arrivals by air from Britain, Brazil and South Africa until March 2 over new variants. Only legal residents or nationals of Spain and the neighbouring micro-state of Andorra are currently allowed in on flights from those countries. In changes previously announced, Manchester City's first leg of their Champions League tie against Borussia Moenchengladbach will be played in Budapest while Liverpool's match against RB Leipzig has also been relocated to the Hungarian capital. The Champions League, Europe's top club competition, was heavily disrupted by the pandemic last season. It was placed on hold when sport across Europe was halted in March. UEFA then took the decision to complete the competition as a "Final Eight" tournament in Lisbon in August, without spectators. Bayern Munich beat Paris Saint-Germain 1-0 in the final. There have also been changes in this season's Europa League as a result of virus rules. Arsenal and Manchester United have had the first legs of their last-32 matches moved. The Gunners will take on Benfica in Rome, while United's meeting with Real Sociedad has been switched from San Sebastian to Turin.

Atletico Madrid v Chelsea Champions League match moved to Bucharest: UEFA

Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah has been termed as "the Messi of&nbsp;Africa" by Karl-Heinz Rummenigge as the Bayern Munich CEO fueled transfer speculation by saying that&nbsp;"it would be an honour to have him" at the German club.&nbsp;

Salah, since his move to Liverpool in 2017, has become a prolific threat in front of the goal and is regarded as one of the most popular athletes in Africa.&nbsp;

The Egypt international has been a vital cog in Jurgen Klopp's Premier League and Champions League winning side. Reflecting on Salah's achievements and skills, Rummenigge said that the&nbsp;28-year-old can be compared to the likes of Lionel Messi at Barcelona and Cristiano Ronaldo at Real Madrid.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“In my opinion, Salah is the Messi of Africa and of course he has the skills to play for the best teams in the world,” Rummenigge told ON Time Sports.&nbsp;

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“What he [Salah] has achieved can be compared to what Messi and [Cristiano] Ronaldo did with Barcelona and Real Madrid.”&nbsp;

Salah has been constantly linked with a move away from the Anfield with reports, over the recent months, stating that the Egyptian is unhappy at the Merseyside club. However, with Barcelona and Real Madrid being tipped as the potential destination for Salah, the current financial problems of the clubs could make it difficult for them to sign the Liverpool star.&nbsp;

“At the moment we don’t plan on signing Salah, but certainly it would be an honour to have him,” Rummenigge said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-no-hugs-to-150000-condoms-here-are-the-details-of-athlete-rulebook-for-tokyo-2020-362452" hreflang="en">From no hugs to 150,000 condoms: Here are the details of athlete rulebook for Tokyo 2020</a>

Salah is nearing his 200th&nbsp;goal of his club career and the Liverpool fans would love to see him touch another landmark in the red jersey.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Liverpool&nbsp;are&nbsp;currently struggling in the Premier League with the Reds losing last three home games at the Anfield.&nbsp;They currently sit fourth in the Premier League standings with 40 points, 10 points adrift of league leaders Manchester City.&nbsp;

Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah has been termed as "the Messi of Africa" by Karl-Heinz Rummenigge as the Bayern Munich CEO fueled transfer speculation by saying that "it would be an honour to have him" at the German club.

Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah has been termed as "the Messi of Africa" by Karl-Heinz Rummenigge as the Bayern Munich CEO fueled transfer speculation by saying that "it would be an honour to have him" at the German club. Salah, since his move to Liverpool in 2017, has become a prolific threat in front of the goal and is regarded as one of the most popular athletes in Africa. The Egypt international has been a vital cog in Jurgen Klopp's Premier League and Champions League winning side. Reflecting on Salah's achievements and skills, Rummenigge said that the 28-year-old can be compared to the likes of Lionel Messi at Barcelona and Cristiano Ronaldo at Real Madrid. “In my opinion, Salah is the Messi of Africa and of course he has the skills to play for the best teams in the world,” Rummenigge told ON Time Sports. ALSO READ: Atletico Madrid v Chelsea Champions League match moved to Bucharest: UEFA “What he [Salah] has achieved can be compared to what Messi and [Cristiano] Ronaldo did with Barcelona and Real Madrid.” Salah has been constantly linked with a move away from the Anfield with reports, over the recent months, stating that the Egyptian is unhappy at the Merseyside club. However, with Barcelona and Real Madrid being tipped as the potential destination for Salah, the current financial problems of the clubs could make it difficult for them to sign the Liverpool star. “At the moment we don’t plan on signing Salah, but certainly it would be an honour to have him,” Rummenigge said. ALSO READ: From no hugs to 150,000 condoms: Here are the details of athlete rulebook for Tokyo 2020 Salah is nearing his 200th goal of his club career and the Liverpool fans would love to see him touch another landmark in the red jersey. Meanwhile, Liverpool are currently struggling in the Premier League with the Reds losing last three home games at the Anfield. They currently sit fourth in the Premier League standings with 40 points, 10 points adrift of league leaders Manchester City.

Bayern Munich CEO's 'Messi of Africa' praise for Mohamed Salah fuels transfer speculation

Former England skipper Nasser Hussain has predicted that Joe Root will end up shattering all the Test batting records by country's batsmen while adding the 30-year-old is arguably England's best-ever player of spin bowling.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Root continued his purple patch with the willow as he hammered 218 runs and 40 runs off 32 deliveries in the two innings respectively in the first Test against India as England defeated the hosts&nbsp;by 227 runs in Chennai to complete a historic win.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Root sure is one of England’s greats. He will probably end up breaking all records, he will probably go past Sir Alastair Cook’s 161 Test matches and probably tally of runs as well,” Hussain wrote in his column for Sky Sports.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“He is in great&nbsp;nick, only 30 years old, and if you did a list of all-time England batting greats - the ones I have seen anyway - you’d have to have Root with Cook, Graham Gooch and Kevin Pietersen,” Hussain said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-test-rankings-india-skipper-virat-kohli-slips-to-fifth-spot-as-joe-root-enters-top-3-362638" hreflang="en">ICC Test Rankings: India skipper Virat Kohli slips to fifth spot as Joe Root enters top 3</a>

“I would say he is arguably England’s best-ever player of spin, the way he sweeps spin away is outstanding to watch.”&nbsp;

Hussain further branded&nbsp;England's win against India as “perfect performance" while adding the triumph in Chennai is right up there with all the epic wins in the longest format of the game.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“People were writing England off, saying this series could be 4-0 to India. No one really gave this side much of a chance. India had won in Australia, Virat Kohli was back and India is a very difficult place to go and win in Test match cricket,” he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/when-india-wins-the-toss-he-will-score-250-ashish-nehra-on-virat-kohli-362622" hreflang="en">'When India wins the toss, he will score 250': Ashish Nehra on Virat Kohli</a>

"So, this win for England has to be right up there, especially away from home. They put in the perfect performance. From ball one to the final delivery, it was outstanding.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

England will look to carry the winning momentum when they take the field for the second Test against India at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, scheduled to start from February 13. Whereas India would be itching to set the record straight and bounce back in the series, which England lead by 1-0.&nbsp;

Former England skipper Nasser Hussain has predicted that Joe Root will end up shattering all the Test batting records by country's batsmen while adding the 30-year-old is arguably England's best-ever player of spin bowling.

Former England skipper Nasser Hussain has predicted that Joe Root will end up shattering all the Test batting records by country's batsmen while adding the 30-year-old is arguably England's best-ever player of spin bowling. Root continued his purple patch with the willow as he hammered 218 runs and 40 runs off 32 deliveries in the two innings respectively in the first Test against India as England defeated the hosts by 227 runs in Chennai to complete a historic win. “Root sure is one of England’s greats. He will probably end up breaking all records, he will probably go past Sir Alastair Cook’s 161 Test matches and probably tally of runs as well,” Hussain wrote in his column for Sky Sports. “He is in great nick, only 30 years old, and if you did a list of all-time England batting greats - the ones I have seen anyway - you’d have to have Root with Cook, Graham Gooch and Kevin Pietersen,” Hussain said. ALSO READ: ICC Test Rankings: India skipper Virat Kohli slips to fifth spot as Joe Root enters top 3 “I would say he is arguably England’s best-ever player of spin, the way he sweeps spin away is outstanding to watch.” Hussain further branded England's win against India as “perfect performance" while adding the triumph in Chennai is right up there with all the epic wins in the longest format of the game. “People were writing England off, saying this series could be 4-0 to India. No one really gave this side much of a chance. India had won in Australia, Virat Kohli was back and India is a very difficult place to go and win in Test match cricket,” he said. ALSO READ: 'When India wins the toss, he will score 250': Ashish Nehra on Virat Kohli "So, this win for England has to be right up there, especially away from home. They put in the perfect performance. From ball one to the final delivery, it was outstanding.” England will look to carry the winning momentum when they take the field for the second Test against India at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, scheduled to start from February 13. Whereas India would be itching to set the record straight and bounce back in the series, which England lead by 1-0.

Will end up breaking all records: Nasser Hussain praises Joe Root after Chennai Test heroics

Serena Williams strolled into the third round of the Australian Open on Wednesday but former US Open champion Bianca Andreescu's emotional comeback from 15 months out ended at the hands of Taiwanese veteran Hsieh Su-wei.

Williams, 39, continued her quest to equal Margaret Court's all-time mark of 24 Grand Slams with a 6-3, 6-0 romp past 99th-ranked Serbian Nina Stojanovic in just 69 minutes on Rod Laver Arena.

"l wasn't thinking as much in the second (set), as I was in the first," said Williams, who hit 27 winners in her 101st Australian Open match while again sporting her unique, one-legged catsuit inspired by track legend 'Flo-Jo'.&nbsp;

"I'm here to have fun and it's great to be playing in front of a crowd."&nbsp;

But eighth seed Andreescu, playing her first tournament since October 2019 after a serious knee injury, could never cope with Hsieh's quirky range of shots and lost 6-3, 6-2 in one hour 23 minutes.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"You need to find a way to get through and the crowd helped me fight," said Hsieh after beating the Canadian, who was coming off a draining three-setter against Mihaela Buzarnescu in the first round.&nbsp;

Kvitova, the former Wimbledon champion and Melbourne runner-up in 2019, committed 44 unforced errors in her 6-4, 1-6, 6-1 defeat to Romania's Sorana Cirstea.

But seventh seed Aryna Sabalenka was little troubled in going&nbsp;through 7-6 (7/5), 6-3 against Russia's Daria Kasatkina.

In the men's draw, eighth seed Diego Schwartzmann of Argentina wasted little time in reaching the last 32, brushing aside Frenchman Alexandre Muller 6-2, 6-0, 6-3 in an hour and 32 minutes on 1573 Arena.

<h2>- Djokovic affair -</h2>

Later Novak Djokovic will look to continue his Melbourne Park "love affair" and march towards a record-extending ninth title against young American Frances Tiafoe.

Djokovic demolished France's Jeremy Chardy 6-3, 6-1, 6-2 on Monday as the year's first Grand Slam kicked off three weeks late because of the coronavirus pandemic.

"It is an ongoing love affair between me and this court, the Rod Laver Arena," said Djokovic after his opening win.

US Open champion Naomi Osaka will headline the evening session against France's former world number four Caroline Garcia, with the Japanese star seeking her second Australian Open title in three years.

Germany's volatile US Open finalist Alexander Zverev will close out the night session against America's Maxime Cressy.

The fifth seed is known for a short fuse and it showed on Monday as he smashed a racquet during a 6-7 (8/10), 7-6 (7/5), 6-3, 6-2 win against another Marcos Giron.

The tantrum-prone Nick Kyrgios could also provide fireworks out on his favourite John Cain Arena against France's 29th seed Ugo Humbert.

Austrian third seed and US Open champion Dominic Thiem, last year's runner-up to Djokovic, is the highlight in the afternoon session on Margaret Court Arena against Germany's 70th-ranked Dominik Koepfer.

Women's second seed Simona Halep appeared to have overcome a lower back injury in 6-2, 6-1 romp past wildcard Lizette Cabrera on Monday and faces another Australian, Ajla Tomljanovic, in the night session.

Serena Williams strolled into the third round of the Australian Open on Wednesday but former US Open champion Bianca Andreescu's emotional comeback from 15 months out ended at the hands of Taiwanese veteran Hsieh Su-wei.

Serena Williams strolled into the third round of the Australian Open on Wednesday but former US Open champion Bianca Andreescu's emotional comeback from 15 months out ended at the hands of Taiwanese veteran Hsieh Su-wei. Williams, 39, continued her quest to equal Margaret Court's all-time mark of 24 Grand Slams with a 6-3, 6-0 romp past 99th-ranked Serbian Nina Stojanovic in just 69 minutes on Rod Laver Arena. "l wasn't thinking as much in the second (set), as I was in the first," said Williams, who hit 27 winners in her 101st Australian Open match while again sporting her unique, one-legged catsuit inspired by track legend 'Flo-Jo'. "I'm here to have fun and it's great to be playing in front of a crowd." But eighth seed Andreescu, playing her first tournament since October 2019 after a serious knee injury, could never cope with Hsieh's quirky range of shots and lost 6-3, 6-2 in one hour 23 minutes. "You need to find a way to get through and the crowd helped me fight," said Hsieh after beating the Canadian, who was coming off a draining three-setter against Mihaela Buzarnescu in the first round. Kvitova, the former Wimbledon champion and Melbourne runner-up in 2019, committed 44 unforced errors in her 6-4, 1-6, 6-1 defeat to Romania's Sorana Cirstea. But seventh seed Aryna Sabalenka was little troubled in going through 7-6 (7/5), 6-3 against Russia's Daria Kasatkina. In the men's draw, eighth seed Diego Schwartzmann of Argentina wasted little time in reaching the last 32, brushing aside Frenchman Alexandre Muller 6-2, 6-0, 6-3 in an hour and 32 minutes on 1573 Arena. - Djokovic affair - Later Novak Djokovic will look to continue his Melbourne Park "love affair" and march towards a record-extending ninth title against young American Frances Tiafoe. Djokovic demolished France's Jeremy Chardy 6-3, 6-1, 6-2 on Monday as the year's first Grand Slam kicked off three weeks late because of the coronavirus pandemic. "It is an ongoing love affair between me and this court, the Rod Laver Arena," said Djokovic after his opening win. US Open champion Naomi Osaka will headline the evening session against France's former world number four Caroline Garcia, with the Japanese star seeking her second Australian Open title in three years. Germany's volatile US Open finalist Alexander Zverev will close out the night session against America's Maxime Cressy. The fifth seed is known for a short fuse and it showed on Monday as he smashed a racquet during a 6-7 (8/10), 7-6 (7/5), 6-3, 6-2 win against another Marcos Giron. The tantrum-prone Nick Kyrgios could also provide fireworks out on his favourite John Cain Arena against France's 29th seed Ugo Humbert. Austrian third seed and US Open champion Dominic Thiem, last year's runner-up to Djokovic, is the highlight in the afternoon session on Margaret Court Arena against Germany's 70th-ranked Dominik Koepfer. Women's second seed Simona Halep appeared to have overcome a lower back injury in 6-2, 6-1 romp past wildcard Lizette Cabrera on Monday and faces another Australian, Ajla Tomljanovic, in the night session.

Serena sails on, Andreescu comeback halted as Kvitova falls

James Anderson, in the first Test against India in Chennai, showed why he is hailed as one of the greatest exponents with the red-ball. The England veteran pacer enjoyed a fruitful outing on Day 5 of the first Test, wrapping up the likes of Shubman Gill and Ajinkya Rahane with some cracking display of reverse-swing. <o:p></o:p>

Anderson bowled two back-to-back peaches to dismiss Gill and Rahane in a similar fashion with the ball pitching just outside off-stump at a good length before coming back to take the stumps for a ride. Not only did Anderson’s dual blow allowed England to get a strong grip into the match, it also broke the backbone of the Indian batting unit. <o:p></o:p>

The 38-year-old then came back to get rid of an in-form Rishabh Pant to put England in a match-winning position. The visitors went on to win the match by 227 runs to take a 1-0 lead in the series.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-factor-held-england-back-from-early-declaration-joe-root-362495" hreflang="en">Rishabh Pant factor held England back from early declaration: Joe Root</a>

<h2 class="MsoNormal"><o:p>Here's James Anderson's epic full-over:&nbsp;</o:p></h2>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
0W00W0 
Full over of James Anderson<a href="https://t.co/lWEEReud3T">pic.twitter.com/lWEEReud3T</a>
— Praveen (@iamPra98) <a href="https://twitter.com/iamPra98/status/1359146828759855105?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Must be really cloudy in Chennai <a href="https://t.co/PVhX5SUjHC">pic.twitter.com/PVhX5SUjHC</a>
— Peter Miller (@TheCricketGeek) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheCricketGeek/status/1359026106205155328?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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“The ball was reversing. We knew we had to get the lengths right and I managed to do that. I got a bit of luck with the bounce there. Reverse swing was huge for us. The pitch was obviously slow and deteriorating so movement in the air makes us seamers feel we can get a wicket any ball. I am feeling great. Had a good tour of Sri Lanka and have managed to carry on the form here as well,” Anderson said after the end of the first Test.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-kevin-pietersen-tweets-in-hindi-reminds-fans-of-his-warning-following-chennai-test-362478" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG: Kevin Pietersen tweets in Hindi, reminds fans of his warning following Chennai Test</a>

“Glad to have got the nod for this game, we have a good lot of bowlers here. It was hard graft out there for five days, now need to rest well for three days and come hard again in... well three days (smiles). Root is a great player of spin. Has led us from the front, led by example. Hopefully, he can continue the form and the rest of us can chip in,” the England veteran added.<o:p></o:p>

It remains to be seen whether Anderson gets the nod for the second Test with England’s strong rotation policy coming into the play. It was Stuart Broad who missed out of the match and is expected to come back into the playing XI for the second Test, scheduled to start from February 13 in Chennai.<o:p></o:p>

James Anderson, in the first Test against India in Chennai, showed why he is hailed as one of the greatest exponents with the red-ball. The England veteran pacer enjoyed a fruitful outing on Day 5 of the first Test, wrapping up the likes of Shubman Gill and Ajinkya Rahane with some cracking display of reverse-swing.

James Anderson, in the first Test against India in Chennai, showed why he is hailed as one of the greatest exponents with the red-ball. The England veteran pacer enjoyed a fruitful outing on Day 5 of the first Test, wrapping up the likes of Shubman Gill and Ajinkya Rahane with some cracking display of reverse-swing. Anderson bowled two back-to-back peaches to dismiss Gill and Rahane in a similar fashion with the ball pitching just outside off-stump at a good length before coming back to take the stumps for a ride. Not only did Anderson’s dual blow allowed England to get a strong grip into the match, it also broke the backbone of the Indian batting unit. The 38-year-old then came back to get rid of an in-form Rishabh Pant to put England in a match-winning position. The visitors went on to win the match by 227 runs to take a 1-0 lead in the series. ALSO READ: Rishabh Pant factor held England back from early declaration: Joe Root Here's James Anderson's epic full-over: 0W00W0 Full over of James Andersonpic.twitter.com/lWEEReud3T — Praveen (@iamPra98) February 9, 2021 × Must be really cloudy in Chennai pic.twitter.com/PVhX5SUjHC — Peter Miller (@TheCricketGeek) February 9, 2021 × “The ball was reversing. We knew we had to get the lengths right and I managed to do that. I got a bit of luck with the bounce there. Reverse swing was huge for us. The pitch was obviously slow and deteriorating so movement in the air makes us seamers feel we can get a wicket any ball. I am feeling great. Had a good tour of Sri Lanka and have managed to carry on the form here as well,” Anderson said after the end of the first Test. ALSO READ: IND vs ENG: Kevin Pietersen tweets in Hindi, reminds fans of his warning following Chennai Test “Glad to have got the nod for this game, we have a good lot of bowlers here. It was hard graft out there for five days, now need to rest well for three days and come hard again in... well three days (smiles). Root is a great player of spin. Has led us from the front, led by example. Hopefully, he can continue the form and the rest of us can chip in,” the England veteran added. It remains to be seen whether Anderson gets the nod for the second Test with England’s strong rotation policy coming into the play. It was Stuart Broad who missed out of the match and is expected to come back into the playing XI for the second Test, scheduled to start from February 13 in Chennai.

Watch: James Anderson dismisses Shubman Gill, Ajinkya Rahane with jaffas!

The 2021 Super Bowl was watched by 96.4 million people across all platforms, the host broadcaster said Tuesday, the lowest viewership since 2007 -- despite record-smashing streaming audiences.

The NFL championship match is the most-watched TV event of the year in the United States.

Some 102.3 million people tuned in for last year's Super Bowl. By comparison, the second-most watched event was another American football game which recorded 43 million views.

The most-watched non-sporting event in 2020 was "The Masked Singer," which attracted an audience of 27 million.

Sunday's Super Bowl was billed as a duel between legendary 43-year-old quarterback Tom Brady of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and wunderkind Patrick Mahomes of the Kansas City Chiefs, who led his team to victory last year at age 24.

In the end it was a one-sided affair, with Brady leading Tampa Bay to a 31-9 victory as he collected a record seventh Super Bowl crown.

Friends and family usually get together for the annual showpiece, but coronavirus restrictions may have brought this year's viewing figures down.

The 55th Super Bowl was nonetheless a streaming success, becoming the most live-streamed NFL game ever, CBS said in a statement.

The average audience of 5.7 million watching online at any given minute was up 65 percent on last year's Super Bowl, the broadcaster said.

The NFL allowed several platforms to stream the game, including on CBS's All Access platform, Yahoo Sports, Verizon Media and the Chiefs and Buccaneers' mobile apps.

CBS All Access, the flagship online video service of the ViacomCBS group, experienced technical difficulties at the start of the broadcast before returning to normal, several US media reported.

Technical reliability, particularly of live broadcasts, is becoming a big issue for broadcasters as viewers move away from traditional television to online streaming.

Paramount Plus, the successor to CBS All Access, is due to launch on March 4, with an expanded offering as it tries to compete in a fiercely competitive market.

The 2021 Super Bowl was watched by 96.4 million people across all platforms, the host broadcaster said Tuesday, the lowest viewership since 2007 -- despite record-smashing streaming audiences.

The 2021 Super Bowl was watched by 96.4 million people across all platforms, the host broadcaster said Tuesday, the lowest viewership since 2007 -- despite record-smashing streaming audiences. The NFL championship match is the most-watched TV event of the year in the United States. Some 102.3 million people tuned in for last year's Super Bowl. By comparison, the second-most watched event was another American football game which recorded 43 million views. The most-watched non-sporting event in 2020 was "The Masked Singer," which attracted an audience of 27 million. Sunday's Super Bowl was billed as a duel between legendary 43-year-old quarterback Tom Brady of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and wunderkind Patrick Mahomes of the Kansas City Chiefs, who led his team to victory last year at age 24. In the end it was a one-sided affair, with Brady leading Tampa Bay to a 31-9 victory as he collected a record seventh Super Bowl crown. Friends and family usually get together for the annual showpiece, but coronavirus restrictions may have brought this year's viewing figures down. The 55th Super Bowl was nonetheless a streaming success, becoming the most live-streamed NFL game ever, CBS said in a statement. The average audience of 5.7 million watching online at any given minute was up 65 percent on last year's Super Bowl, the broadcaster said. The NFL allowed several platforms to stream the game, including on CBS's All Access platform, Yahoo Sports, Verizon Media and the Chiefs and Buccaneers' mobile apps. CBS All Access, the flagship online video service of the ViacomCBS group, experienced technical difficulties at the start of the broadcast before returning to normal, several US media reported. Technical reliability, particularly of live broadcasts, is becoming a big issue for broadcasters as viewers move away from traditional television to online streaming. Paramount Plus, the successor to CBS All Access, is due to launch on March 4, with an expanded offering as it tries to compete in a fiercely competitive market.

Super Bowl draws 96.4 million viewers, lowest in 14 years

Rafael Nadal Tuesday said his back is still "not great" despite opening his campaign for a record 21st Grand Slam title with a routine straight-sets win.

The world number two pulled out of the ATP Cup last week with the niggle and said ahead of the Australian Open that he was "suffering".

He motored through his first-round clash against valiant Serb Laslo Djere with little drama, racing to a 6-3, 6-4, 6-1, victory under blue skies on Rod Laver Arena, but admitted he was still struggling.

"My back is not perfect, as I said a couple of days ago," said the Spaniard, whose only appearance this year had been an exhibition against Dominic Thiem in Adelaide 12 days ago, where he first experienced stiffness in his back.

"Every day that I'm able to go through, probably there are more chances to be better. That's the thing now.&nbsp;

"There is always a chance to improve, and that's why I'm here playing and fighting to try to get better and then give myself a chance."

The injury forced him to make changes in his service action against Djere, who didn't have the weapons to trouble the second seed despite Nadal being below par.

"Today it's not great. I needed to change a little bit the motion of my serve," he said.&nbsp;

"I need to go day-to-day and just try to stay positive. I'm trying to do all the things possible to be ready for compete -- that's what I came here for."

It was his first competitive match since the semi-finals of the ATP Finals in London on November 21.

Nadal raced to a 3-0 first-set lead and wrapped it up before a tougher set two as Djere raised his first serve percentage and got himself in the rallies, with Nadal saving three break points.

But the unrelenting Spaniard was never in jeopardy, dominating off his first serve and outlasting the 56th-ranked Serb on the long rallies.

"I wish him all the best for the rest of the season," Nadal said. "Laslo has a great story. I wish him the best of luck."&nbsp;

The 2009 champion, who has a history of back problems, is looking to edge ahead of Roger Federer in career Slam titles, with both men having 20 to their name.

But the king of clay has often laboured in vain on Melbourne's hardcourts, reaching five finals but only having the one title, falling in the quarter-finals last year to Dominic Thiem.

Nadal next plays either Serb veteran Viktor Troicki or qualifier Michael Mmoh and is on course to meet Greek rising star and fifth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas in the quarter-finals.

Rafael Nadal Tuesday said his back is still "not great" despite opening his campaign for a record 21st Grand Slam title with a routine straight-sets win. The world number two pulled out of the ATP Cup last week with the niggle and said ahead of the Australian Open that he was "suffering".

Rafael Nadal Tuesday said his back is still "not great" despite opening his campaign for a record 21st Grand Slam title with a routine straight-sets win. The world number two pulled out of the ATP Cup last week with the niggle and said ahead of the Australian Open that he was "suffering". He motored through his first-round clash against valiant Serb Laslo Djere with little drama, racing to a 6-3, 6-4, 6-1, victory under blue skies on Rod Laver Arena, but admitted he was still struggling. "My back is not perfect, as I said a couple of days ago," said the Spaniard, whose only appearance this year had been an exhibition against Dominic Thiem in Adelaide 12 days ago, where he first experienced stiffness in his back. "Every day that I'm able to go through, probably there are more chances to be better. That's the thing now. "There is always a chance to improve, and that's why I'm here playing and fighting to try to get better and then give myself a chance." The injury forced him to make changes in his service action against Djere, who didn't have the weapons to trouble the second seed despite Nadal being below par. "Today it's not great. I needed to change a little bit the motion of my serve," he said. "I need to go day-to-day and just try to stay positive. I'm trying to do all the things possible to be ready for compete -- that's what I came here for." It was his first competitive match since the semi-finals of the ATP Finals in London on November 21. Nadal raced to a 3-0 first-set lead and wrapped it up before a tougher set two as Djere raised his first serve percentage and got himself in the rallies, with Nadal saving three break points. But the unrelenting Spaniard was never in jeopardy, dominating off his first serve and outlasting the 56th-ranked Serb on the long rallies. "I wish him all the best for the rest of the season," Nadal said. "Laslo has a great story. I wish him the best of luck." The 2009 champion, who has a history of back problems, is looking to edge ahead of Roger Federer in career Slam titles, with both men having 20 to their name. But the king of clay has often laboured in vain on Melbourne's hardcourts, reaching five finals but only having the one title, falling in the quarter-finals last year to Dominic Thiem. Nadal next plays either Serb veteran Viktor Troicki or qualifier Michael Mmoh and is on course to meet Greek rising star and fifth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas in the quarter-finals.

'Not great' - Nadal cruises despite lingering back injury

Sexist comments made by Tokyo 2020 chief Yoshiro Mori were "completely inappropriate", the International Olympic Committee said Tuesday, as the row over his controversial remarks continues to simmer.

The IOC's statement came as Japanese media said organisers were planning to meet this week to discuss their response to the uproar.

Several hundred Olympic volunteers have quit since Mori last week said women speak too much in meetings. He has since apologised but not stepped down, and the IOC last week said it considered the matter closed.

But on Tuesday it released a lengthy statement citing its commitment to gender equality and distancing itself from the remarks made by Mori.

"The recent comments of Tokyo 2020 President Mori were absolutely inappropriate and in contradiction to the IOC's commitments and the reforms of its Olympic Agenda 2020," it said.

It noted Mori had apologised "and later made a number of subsequent comments".

After apologising, Mori appeared to dig himself in deeper, however, explaining he "doesn't speak to women much".

The IOC made no reference to calls for Mori's resignation, noting only that Tokyo's organising committee "also considers his comment to be inappropriate and has reaffirmed its commitment to gender equality".

Japanese media said Tuesday the organising committee could meet as soon Friday to discuss its response as calls grow for Mori to resign.

Since Mori's remarks, nearly 400 Olympic and Paralympic volunteers have quit, according to the committee, which said the number includes withdrawals for all reasons.

A total of 80,000 volunteers from Japan and overseas have been recruited for this summer's virus-postponed Games.

Two people have pulled out of the torch relay and around 4,000 people complained to organisers, said public broadcaster NHK.

The row is the latest headache for organisers already battling public disquiet about the delayed Olympics, with polls showing more than 80 percent of Japanese oppose holding it this summer.

An online campaign calling for action against Mori has attracted more than 140,000 signatures, while tennis superstar Naomi Osaka slammed his comments as "ignorant".

Top government spokesman Katsunobu Kato said Tuesday that organisers should try and convince volunteers to return.

"It is important that the organising committee gives a careful explanation to volunteers," he said, days after a Tokyo 2020 statement reaffirmed a commitment to gender equality and diversity.

But ruling-party heavyweight Toshihiro Nikai reportedly said Monday that volunteers "would change their mind when things calm down" -- sparking further ire online and from other politicians.

"If they really want to quit, we'll need to recruit new ones," he said, according to the Asahi Shimbun newspaper.

Some Olympic sponsors have told organisers they received complaints and boycott threats over Mori's comments, the Mainichi Shimbun daily reported.

"We would like to refrain from 'performing' with president Mori" to promote products, the newspaper quoted one anonymous company official as saying.

Sexist comments made by Tokyo 2020 chief Yoshiro Mori were "completely inappropriate", the International Olympic Committee said Tuesday, as the row over his controversial remarks continues to simmer.

Sexist comments made by Tokyo 2020 chief Yoshiro Mori were "completely inappropriate", the International Olympic Committee said Tuesday, as the row over his controversial remarks continues to simmer. The IOC's statement came as Japanese media said organisers were planning to meet this week to discuss their response to the uproar. Several hundred Olympic volunteers have quit since Mori last week said women speak too much in meetings. He has since apologised but not stepped down, and the IOC last week said it considered the matter closed. But on Tuesday it released a lengthy statement citing its commitment to gender equality and distancing itself from the remarks made by Mori. "The recent comments of Tokyo 2020 President Mori were absolutely inappropriate and in contradiction to the IOC's commitments and the reforms of its Olympic Agenda 2020," it said. It noted Mori had apologised "and later made a number of subsequent comments". After apologising, Mori appeared to dig himself in deeper, however, explaining he "doesn't speak to women much". The IOC made no reference to calls for Mori's resignation, noting only that Tokyo's organising committee "also considers his comment to be inappropriate and has reaffirmed its commitment to gender equality". Japanese media said Tuesday the organising committee could meet as soon Friday to discuss its response as calls grow for Mori to resign. Since Mori's remarks, nearly 400 Olympic and Paralympic volunteers have quit, according to the committee, which said the number includes withdrawals for all reasons. A total of 80,000 volunteers from Japan and overseas have been recruited for this summer's virus-postponed Games. Two people have pulled out of the torch relay and around 4,000 people complained to organisers, said public broadcaster NHK. The row is the latest headache for organisers already battling public disquiet about the delayed Olympics, with polls showing more than 80 percent of Japanese oppose holding it this summer. An online campaign calling for action against Mori has attracted more than 140,000 signatures, while tennis superstar Naomi Osaka slammed his comments as "ignorant". Top government spokesman Katsunobu Kato said Tuesday that organisers should try and convince volunteers to return. "It is important that the organising committee gives a careful explanation to volunteers," he said, days after a Tokyo 2020 statement reaffirmed a commitment to gender equality and diversity. But ruling-party heavyweight Toshihiro Nikai reportedly said Monday that volunteers "would change their mind when things calm down" -- sparking further ire online and from other politicians. "If they really want to quit, we'll need to recruit new ones," he said, according to the Asahi Shimbun newspaper. Some Olympic sponsors have told organisers they received complaints and boycott threats over Mori's comments, the Mainichi Shimbun daily reported. "We would like to refrain from 'performing' with president Mori" to promote products, the newspaper quoted one anonymous company official as saying.

IOC calls 2020 chief's sexist comments 'completely inappropriate'

Premier League referee Mike Dean will not officiate this weekend after he and his family received online death threats following two controversial incidents.

The 52-year-old referee sent off West Ham midfielder Tomas Soucek for catching Fulham's Aleksandar Mitrovic with his elbow on Saturday, days after dismissing Southampton defender Jan Bednarek at Old Trafford.

Dean reviewed the incidents on the pitchside monitor after consulting VAR before making his decisions. Both have since been overturned on appeal.

The referee asked to be stood down from the next round of Premier League fixtures and was not included on the match officials list for the forthcoming weekend, though he will be in charge of Wednesday's FA Cup tie between Leicester and Brighton.

Professional Game Match Officials Board managing director and former referee Mike Riley offered Dean the organisation's full support.

Premier League chief executive Richard Masters said the threats to Dean and his family were "inexcusable" and called for more action from social media companies.

Soucek also spoke out against the abuse levelled at Dean, tweeting that decisions "made on the pitch should stay on the pitch".

"There is no place for abuse of any kind," he said. "It is in the past and I'm now focused on the rest of the season."

Premier League managers mobilised in support of Dean, with Sheffield United boss Chris Wilder labelling the abuse "inhumane".

"Mike Dean is an honourable referee and a decent guy, and these guys are doing their best, as the players and coaches are," he said.

"They don't deserve it. It's disgusting, the individuals need nailing and I wish I could nail them in my way, but I won't be allowed to.

"We've all been subjected to the abuse and I think it's cowardly, disgusting and inhumane. It isn't football and it isn't life. No-one should be able to get away with it."

Tottenham manager Jose Mourinho said that criticism of officials like Dean on a professional level was inevitable, but threatening his family was completely unacceptable.

"I think something has to be done. Because one thing is professional life and what we do in our professional lives, and the success we have, the mistakes we make, the frustrations we have," Mourinho said.

"Another thing is to go to the private life and go to the social life. And then, of course, something has to be done."

Premier League referee Mike Dean will not officiate this weekend after he and his family received online death threats following two controversial incidents. The 52-year-old referee sent off West Ham midfielder Tomas Soucek for catching Fulham's Aleksandar Mitrovic with his elbow on Saturday, days after dismissing Southampton defender Jan Bednarek at Old Trafford.

Premier League referee Mike Dean will not officiate this weekend after he and his family received online death threats following two controversial incidents. The 52-year-old referee sent off West Ham midfielder Tomas Soucek for catching Fulham's Aleksandar Mitrovic with his elbow on Saturday, days after dismissing Southampton defender Jan Bednarek at Old Trafford. Dean reviewed the incidents on the pitchside monitor after consulting VAR before making his decisions. Both have since been overturned on appeal. The referee asked to be stood down from the next round of Premier League fixtures and was not included on the match officials list for the forthcoming weekend, though he will be in charge of Wednesday's FA Cup tie between Leicester and Brighton. Professional Game Match Officials Board managing director and former referee Mike Riley offered Dean the organisation's full support. Premier League chief executive Richard Masters said the threats to Dean and his family were "inexcusable" and called for more action from social media companies. Soucek also spoke out against the abuse levelled at Dean, tweeting that decisions "made on the pitch should stay on the pitch". "There is no place for abuse of any kind," he said. "It is in the past and I'm now focused on the rest of the season." Premier League managers mobilised in support of Dean, with Sheffield United boss Chris Wilder labelling the abuse "inhumane". "Mike Dean is an honourable referee and a decent guy, and these guys are doing their best, as the players and coaches are," he said. "They don't deserve it. It's disgusting, the individuals need nailing and I wish I could nail them in my way, but I won't be allowed to. "We've all been subjected to the abuse and I think it's cowardly, disgusting and inhumane. It isn't football and it isn't life. No-one should be able to get away with it." Tottenham manager Jose Mourinho said that criticism of officials like Dean on a professional level was inevitable, but threatening his family was completely unacceptable. "I think something has to be done. Because one thing is professional life and what we do in our professional lives, and the success we have, the mistakes we make, the frustrations we have," Mourinho said. "Another thing is to go to the private life and go to the social life. And then, of course, something has to be done."

Premier League ref misses game after death threats

England faced a lot of criticism for holding on to their declaration on Day 4 of the first Test against India. While the visitors decided to set a target for Team India without declaring early or either enforcing the follow-on.&nbsp;

England went on to set a target of 420 runs for Team India. As the decision to not declare the innings stood right following England’s massive 227-run win against India, Joe Root explained why he decided against declaring the innings early.&nbsp;

Root said that Rishabh Pant’s ability to change the game in one session while adding he didn’t want the England bowlers to be in two minds about the final day of the match.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-kevin-pietersen-tweets-in-hindi-reminds-fans-of-his-warning-following-chennai-test-362478" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG: Kevin Pietersen tweets in Hindi, reminds fans of his warning following Chennai Test</a>

"We could have declared earlier, for sure, we could have. I wanted to make sure that there were only two results possible in this game. I wanted to make sure that we turned up today with the ball still being hard. We wanted to give our bowlers an extra bit of time to be raring to go," Root told reporters at the virtual press conference.

"We wanted to get to 400 and then we wanted to press the accelerator. Actually, it was going to be really important that we had runs on the board as it was a fast outfield," he added.

"Rishabh Pant bats for one session and he can make things quite interesting. I did not want the pressure of having to contain and as well as take wickets. I wanted to make sure that the bowlers were concentrating on the ways of finding the wickets on that surface.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/joe-root-equals-michael-vaughan-as-most-successful-england-captain-in-his-100th-test-362448" hreflang="en">Joe Root equals Michael Vaughan as most successful England captain in his 100th Test</a>

"We were always going to create ten chances, we just had to be disciplined and take the chances that came our way. We could have declared earlier, I am just glad how it has turned out," he further said.

Root capped off his 100th Test match in style with the England skipper scoring a scintillating double century in the first innings to help his side gain advantage going into the second innings. Eventually, England took a 1-0 lead in the series and will look to continue their winning run when they take the field for the second Test starting from February 13 in Chennai. 
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England faced a lot of criticism for holding on to their declaration on Day 4 of the first Test against India. While the visitors decided to set a target for Team India without declaring early or either enforcing the follow-on.

England faced a lot of criticism for holding on to their declaration on Day 4 of the first Test against India. While the visitors decided to set a target for Team India without declaring early or either enforcing the follow-on. England went on to set a target of 420 runs for Team India. As the decision to not declare the innings stood right following England’s massive 227-run win against India, Joe Root explained why he decided against declaring the innings early. Root said that Rishabh Pant’s ability to change the game in one session while adding he didn’t want the England bowlers to be in two minds about the final day of the match. ALSO READ: IND vs ENG: Kevin Pietersen tweets in Hindi, reminds fans of his warning following Chennai Test "We could have declared earlier, for sure, we could have. I wanted to make sure that there were only two results possible in this game. I wanted to make sure that we turned up today with the ball still being hard. We wanted to give our bowlers an extra bit of time to be raring to go," Root told reporters at the virtual press conference. "We wanted to get to 400 and then we wanted to press the accelerator. Actually, it was going to be really important that we had runs on the board as it was a fast outfield," he added. "Rishabh Pant bats for one session and he can make things quite interesting. I did not want the pressure of having to contain and as well as take wickets. I wanted to make sure that the bowlers were concentrating on the ways of finding the wickets on that surface. ALSO READ: Joe Root equals Michael Vaughan as most successful England captain in his 100th Test "We were always going to create ten chances, we just had to be disciplined and take the chances that came our way. We could have declared earlier, I am just glad how it has turned out," he further said. Root capped off his 100th Test match in style with the England skipper scoring a scintillating double century in the first innings to help his side gain advantage going into the second innings. Eventually, England took a 1-0 lead in the series and will look to continue their winning run when they take the field for the second Test starting from February 13 in Chennai.

Rishabh Pant factor held England back from early declaration: Joe Root

The pilot in the January 2020 helicopter crash that killed retired NBA star Kobe Bryant, his daughter and seven others was "legally prohibited" from flying into clouds but did so anyway, the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board's chairman said on Tuesday.

Pilot Ara Zobayan told air traffic controllers that his helicopter was climbing out of heavy clouds when in fact it was descending immediately before slamming into a hillside near the town of Calabasas, the agency said in June. Zobayan's actions have been in focus in the investigation into the crash of the Sikorsky S-76B helicopter outside Los Angeles into hilly terrain.

NTSB Chairman Robert Sumwalt said the pilot was "flying under visual flight orders or VFR which legally prohibited him from penetrating the clouds" but he continued into clouds. The board was meeting to vote on the probable cause of the crash.

The board "will discuss whether the pilot faced pressure to complete the flight. .... What were the expectations of the pilot under the company policy? Did he put pressure on himself and what actions could he have taken to avoid flying into the clouds?" Sumwalt said.

Zobayan was killed in the crash.

The board has said pilots can become confused about an aircraft's attitude and acceleration when they cannot see the sky or landscape around them. Sumwalt said the board "will discuss the phenomenon of spatial disorientation, which is the powerful sensation that confuses pilots who lose visual reference and what types of training can be effective in countering this effect."

The board said previously an examination of the helicopter's engines and rotors found no evidence of "catastrophic mechanical failure."

Bryant, 41, an 18-time National Basketball Association all-star with the Los Angeles Lakers, was traveling with his 13-year-old daughter, Gianna, two other girls and several friends to a youth basketball tournament at the time of the crash. The accident prompted an outpouring of shock and grief from sports fans worldwide.

The pilot in the January 2020 helicopter crash that killed retired NBA star Kobe Bryant, his daughter and seven others was "legally prohibited" from flying into clouds but did so anyway, the U.

The pilot in the January 2020 helicopter crash that killed retired NBA star Kobe Bryant, his daughter and seven others was "legally prohibited" from flying into clouds but did so anyway, the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board's chairman said on Tuesday. Pilot Ara Zobayan told air traffic controllers that his helicopter was climbing out of heavy clouds when in fact it was descending immediately before slamming into a hillside near the town of Calabasas, the agency said in June. Zobayan's actions have been in focus in the investigation into the crash of the Sikorsky S-76B helicopter outside Los Angeles into hilly terrain. NTSB Chairman Robert Sumwalt said the pilot was "flying under visual flight orders or VFR which legally prohibited him from penetrating the clouds" but he continued into clouds. The board was meeting to vote on the probable cause of the crash. The board "will discuss whether the pilot faced pressure to complete the flight. .... What were the expectations of the pilot under the company policy? Did he put pressure on himself and what actions could he have taken to avoid flying into the clouds?" Sumwalt said. Zobayan was killed in the crash. The board has said pilots can become confused about an aircraft's attitude and acceleration when they cannot see the sky or landscape around them. Sumwalt said the board "will discuss the phenomenon of spatial disorientation, which is the powerful sensation that confuses pilots who lose visual reference and what types of training can be effective in countering this effect." The board said previously an examination of the helicopter's engines and rotors found no evidence of "catastrophic mechanical failure." Bryant, 41, an 18-time National Basketball Association all-star with the Los Angeles Lakers, was traveling with his 13-year-old daughter, Gianna, two other girls and several friends to a youth basketball tournament at the time of the crash. The accident prompted an outpouring of shock and grief from sports fans worldwide.

Pilot in fatal Kobe Bryant crash legally prohibited from flying into clouds: NTSB chief

England on Tuesday defeated India by a crushing 227-run margin in the first Test of the four-match series at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. While the match marked an end to India’s 14-match unbeaten streak at home, former England batsman Kevin Pietersen took to social media platform to tweet in the Hindi language to celebrate and remind Indian fans of what he had said before the series started.

Ahead of the series, Pietersen had warned Indian fans not to celebrate the historic Test series triumph against Australia much. At that time, the former England batsman had said that the real team will arrive in India a few weeks later while adding that a lot can change within a span of two weeks.

England dominated the proceedings against India in Chennai to win the Test 227 runs. While skipper Joe Root celebrated his 100th Test with a cracking double century, the likes of Dom Bess and James Anderson rattled the Indian batsmen with their classy bowling display.

“India , yaad hai maine pehele hi chetawani di thi ke itna jasn na manaye jab aapne Australia ko unke ghar pe haraya tha,” tweeted Pietersen. (India, remember when I warned you before to refrain from celebrating too much when you had beaten Australia in their backyard).

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/family-live-streams-india-vs-england-chennai-test-at-wedding-venue-photograph-goes-viral-362460" hreflang="en">Family live-streams India vs England Chennai Test at wedding venue, photograph goes viral</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
India , yaad hai maine pehele hi chetawani di thi ke itna jasn na manaye jab aapne Australia ko unke ghar pe haraya tha 😉
— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) <a href="https://twitter.com/KP24/status/1359059768082579456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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“India - yeh aitihaasik jeet ka jashn manaye kyuki yeh sabhi baadhao ke khilaap hasil hui hai (This is a historic win, you must celebrate because it has been achieved despite all obstacles),” the ex-England captain had tweeted.

“LEKIN, ASLI TEAM toh kuch hafto baad a rahi hai jisse aapko harana hoga apne ghar mein. Satark rahe, 2 saptaah mein bahut adhik jashn manaane se saavadhaan rahen (However, the real challenge comes your way in a few weeks, and you have to beat them at home. Be careful, refrain from celebrating too much in the coming two weeks),” he had written while referring to the England team.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/there-are-no-regrets-whatsoever-on-that-decision-virat-kohli-on-kuldeep-yadavs-omission-from-playing-xi-362444" hreflang="en">'There are no regrets whatsoever on that decision': Virat Kohli on Kuldeep Yadav's omission from playing XI</a>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
India 🇮🇳 - yeh aitihaasik jeet ka jashn manaye kyuki yeh sabhi baadhao ke khilaap hasil hui hai 
 
LEKIN , ASLI TEAM 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 😉 toh kuch hafto baad a rahi hai jisse aapko harana hoga apne ghar mein . 
 
Satark rahe , 2 saptaah mein bahut adhik jashn manaane se saavadhaan rahen 😉
— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) <a href="https://twitter.com/KP24/status/1351501549013504001?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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England will now look to continue their winning run at the same venue in Chennai in the second Test, scheduled to commence from February 13 whereas India will be gunning to bounce back from the setback and level the series.

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England on Tuesday defeated India by a crushing 227-run margin in the first Test of the four-match series at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. While the match marked an end to India’s 14-match unbeaten streak at home, former England batsman Kevin Pietersen took to social media platform to tweet in the Hindi language to celebrate and remind Indian fans of what he had said before the series started.

England on Tuesday defeated India by a crushing 227-run margin in the first Test of the four-match series at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. While the match marked an end to India’s 14-match unbeaten streak at home, former England batsman Kevin Pietersen took to social media platform to tweet in the Hindi language to celebrate and remind Indian fans of what he had said before the series started. Ahead of the series, Pietersen had warned Indian fans not to celebrate the historic Test series triumph against Australia much. At that time, the former England batsman had said that the real team will arrive in India a few weeks later while adding that a lot can change within a span of two weeks. England dominated the proceedings against India in Chennai to win the Test 227 runs. While skipper Joe Root celebrated his 100th Test with a cracking double century, the likes of Dom Bess and James Anderson rattled the Indian batsmen with their classy bowling display. “India , yaad hai maine pehele hi chetawani di thi ke itna jasn na manaye jab aapne Australia ko unke ghar pe haraya tha,” tweeted Pietersen. (India, remember when I warned you before to refrain from celebrating too much when you had beaten Australia in their backyard). ALSO READ: Family live-streams India vs England Chennai Test at wedding venue, photograph goes viral India , yaad hai maine pehele hi chetawani di thi ke itna jasn na manaye jab aapne Australia ko unke ghar pe haraya tha 😉 — Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) February 9, 2021 × “India - yeh aitihaasik jeet ka jashn manaye kyuki yeh sabhi baadhao ke khilaap hasil hui hai (This is a historic win, you must celebrate because it has been achieved despite all obstacles),” the ex-England captain had tweeted. “LEKIN, ASLI TEAM toh kuch hafto baad a rahi hai jisse aapko harana hoga apne ghar mein. Satark rahe, 2 saptaah mein bahut adhik jashn manaane se saavadhaan rahen (However, the real challenge comes your way in a few weeks, and you have to beat them at home. Be careful, refrain from celebrating too much in the coming two weeks),” he had written while referring to the England team. ALSO READ: 'There are no regrets whatsoever on that decision': Virat Kohli on Kuldeep Yadav's omission from playing XI India 🇮🇳 - yeh aitihaasik jeet ka jashn manaye kyuki yeh sabhi baadhao ke khilaap hasil hui hai LEKIN , ASLI TEAM 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 😉 toh kuch hafto baad a rahi hai jisse aapko harana hoga apne ghar mein . Satark rahe , 2 saptaah mein bahut adhik jashn manaane se saavadhaan rahen 😉 — Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) January 19, 2021 × England will now look to continue their winning run at the same venue in Chennai in the second Test, scheduled to commence from February 13 whereas India will be gunning to bounce back from the setback and level the series.

IND vs ENG: Kevin Pietersen tweets in Hindi, reminds fans of his warning following Chennai Test

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