India captain Virat Kohli on Thursday said the ongoing farmers' protest against new agriculture laws has come up for discussion in his team meeting where everyone has "expressed what they had to".

Kohli, speaking online to the media ahead of the first Test against England here, did not divulge the details of the "brief" conversation on the matter. "Like any issue present in the country, we do talk about it and everyone had expressed what they had to," Kohli said when asked about the agitation that has been going on for over two months.

"That's about it. We briefly spoke about it in the team meeting and we carried on discussing the team and game plans," he added.

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On Wednesday, Kohli was among a host of Indian cricket stars, including the iconic Sachin Tendulkar who urged for unity in the country after some international celebrities like US pop star Rihanna called attention to the plight of the agitating farmers on social media.

"Let us all stay united in this hour of disagreements. Farmers are an integral part of our country and I'm sure an amicable solution will be found between all parties to bring about peace and move forward together," he had tweeted. India and England will lock horns in a four-match Test series starting Friday.

Thousands of farmers, mostly from Punjab, Haryana and western Uttar Pradesh, have been camping at Delhi's borders for over two months demanding that the three new farm laws be repealed. Farmer groups have alleged that these laws, which allow farmers to sell their produce directly to a buyer, will end the traditional mandi system and the guarantee of a Minimum Support Price for their crops. The government has rejected these apprehensions as misplaced.

India captain Virat Kohli on Thursday said the ongoing farmers' protest against new agriculture laws has come up for discussion in his team meeting where everyone has "expressed what they had to".

India captain Virat Kohli on Thursday said the ongoing farmers' protest against new agriculture laws has come up for discussion in his team meeting where everyone has "expressed what they had to". Kohli, speaking online to the media ahead of the first Test against England here, did not divulge the details of the "brief" conversation on the matter. "Like any issue present in the country, we do talk about it and everyone had expressed what they had to," Kohli said when asked about the agitation that has been going on for over two months. "That's about it. We briefly spoke about it in the team meeting and we carried on discussing the team and game plans," he added. ALSO READ: Rishabh Pant to start in first Test against England, confirms Virat Kohli On Wednesday, Kohli was among a host of Indian cricket stars, including the iconic Sachin Tendulkar who urged for unity in the country after some international celebrities like US pop star Rihanna called attention to the plight of the agitating farmers on social media. "Let us all stay united in this hour of disagreements. Farmers are an integral part of our country and I'm sure an amicable solution will be found between all parties to bring about peace and move forward together," he had tweeted. India and England will lock horns in a four-match Test series starting Friday. Thousands of farmers, mostly from Punjab, Haryana and western Uttar Pradesh, have been camping at Delhi's borders for over two months demanding that the three new farm laws be repealed. Farmer groups have alleged that these laws, which allow farmers to sell their produce directly to a buyer, will end the traditional mandi system and the guarantee of a Minimum Support Price for their crops. The government has rejected these apprehensions as misplaced.

We briefly discussed it in team meeting: Virat Kohli on farmers' protest

Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Thursday confirmed that Rishabh Pant will start the first Test against England as the wicket-keeper of the side.&nbsp;India&nbsp;have&nbsp;over the past couple of&nbsp;home&nbsp;seasons have preferred&nbsp;Wriddhiman Saha over Pant as the specialist wicket-keeper&nbsp;due to the former being one of the finest with the gloves.&nbsp;

However,&nbsp;Pant's&nbsp;recent exploits and heroic knocks against Australia&nbsp;have helped the southpaw regain his place in the playing XI when it comes to home Test matches. Interestingly,&nbsp;Pant's&nbsp;last home Test was back in 2018, against the West Indies.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kohli, lauding&nbsp;Pant's&nbsp;impact against Australia, said that the 23-year-old is in a good headspace and they want to continue with him. The Indian skipper added that the entire&nbsp;Indian team is happy to see Pant flourish.&nbsp;

Pant was India's highest run-scorer in the recently concluded series against Australia despite missing the Adelaide Test. The southpaw accumulated 274 runs in five innings at an average of&nbsp;68.50.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/3-spinners-and-2-pacers-team-indias-predicted-playing-xi-vs-england-for-1st-test-361313" hreflang="en">3 spinners and 2 pacers? Team India's predicted playing XI vs England for 1st Test</a>

"Yes, Rishabh (Pant) will start tomorrow. He had a massive impact in Australia and is in a good headspace and we want to continue with him. He's come along nicely after the IPL and he's worked hard in his fitness and his game. We were very happy to see him flourish,” said Kohli in the pre-match press conference on the eve of the first Test against India in Chennai.&nbsp;

Kohli will be back leading the team after missing the last three Tests against Australia to be with his wife on the birth of their first child. Ajinkya Rahane, in Kohli's absence, led the Indian team impeccably well&nbsp;as India won the series 2-1.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Rahane has always lauded Kohli for his leadership qualities and on&nbsp;Wednesday, said that he is happy taking a back seat as Kohli is back leading the team. Praising Rahane for his splendid leadership qualities which he showed in the series against Australia, Kohli said that&nbsp;everyone in the team only wants India to win.&nbsp;

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"The fact that Jinks (Rahane) mentioned what he did because the relationship between us and the whole team is one of trust: we only want India to win. He fulfilled his role with flying&nbsp;colours&nbsp;in Australia," Kohli said.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Indian team will have an optional practice session before the match starts on Friday in Chennai.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India last lost a home Test series back in 2012 – against England – and will look to continue their domination on home soil.&nbsp;

Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Thursday confirmed that Rishabh Pant will start the first Test against England as the wicket-keeper of the side. India have over the past couple of home seasons have preferred Wriddhiman Saha over Pant as the specialist wicket-keeper due to the former being one of the finest with the gloves.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Thursday confirmed that Rishabh Pant will start the first Test against England as the wicket-keeper of the side. India have over the past couple of home seasons have preferred Wriddhiman Saha over Pant as the specialist wicket-keeper due to the former being one of the finest with the gloves. However, Pant's recent exploits and heroic knocks against Australia have helped the southpaw regain his place in the playing XI when it comes to home Test matches. Interestingly, Pant's last home Test was back in 2018, against the West Indies. Kohli, lauding Pant's impact against Australia, said that the 23-year-old is in a good headspace and they want to continue with him. The Indian skipper added that the entire Indian team is happy to see Pant flourish. Pant was India's highest run-scorer in the recently concluded series against Australia despite missing the Adelaide Test. The southpaw accumulated 274 runs in five innings at an average of 68.50. ALSO READ: 3 spinners and 2 pacers? Team India's predicted playing XI vs England for 1st Test "Yes, Rishabh (Pant) will start tomorrow. He had a massive impact in Australia and is in a good headspace and we want to continue with him. He's come along nicely after the IPL and he's worked hard in his fitness and his game. We were very happy to see him flourish,” said Kohli in the pre-match press conference on the eve of the first Test against India in Chennai. Kohli will be back leading the team after missing the last three Tests against Australia to be with his wife on the birth of their first child. Ajinkya Rahane, in Kohli's absence, led the Indian team impeccably well as India won the series 2-1. Rahane has always lauded Kohli for his leadership qualities and on Wednesday, said that he is happy taking a back seat as Kohli is back leading the team. Praising Rahane for his splendid leadership qualities which he showed in the series against Australia, Kohli said that everyone in the team only wants India to win. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli tops celebrity brand valuation study for fourth consecutive year "The fact that Jinks (Rahane) mentioned what he did because the relationship between us and the whole team is one of trust: we only want India to win. He fulfilled his role with flying colours in Australia," Kohli said. Meanwhile, the Indian team will have an optional practice session before the match starts on Friday in Chennai. India last lost a home Test series back in 2012 – against England – and will look to continue their domination on home soil.

Rishabh Pant to start in first Test against England, confirms Virat Kohli

India and England are set to kick-start the four-Test series with the opener scheduled to be played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai from Friday. Both India and England are&nbsp;heading into the series on the back of a series wins against Australia and Sri Lanka respectively. While the series promises to be a cracking contest with both England and India boasting some world-class players, fans are eagerly waiting to witness the clash of giants.&nbsp;

India have almost a fully-fit squad with a couple of players missing the Test series due to injuries suffered in the tour of Australia. The likes of Hanuma Vihari, Ravindra Jadeja and Mohammed Shami are missing but the hosts still boast a strong squad which might&nbsp;lead to selection headaches in the Indian camp.&nbsp;

While the batting order looks almost set with the likes of Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane, all eyes will be on the bowling combination of the Indian attack as the match will be played in Chennai, which has assisted spinners&nbsp;over the years.&nbsp;

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However, with two back-to-back Test matches scheduled and a debutant curator V Ramesh Kumar taking charge of the proceedings, the MA Chidambaram Stadium could&nbsp;play equal field for both pacers and spinners early on. But India&nbsp;are&nbsp;likely to go with three spinners given England's recent struggle against spin bowling.&nbsp;

India last lost a home Test series back in the year 2012 – against England – and has since lost only one Test match, in 2016, on home soil. Given India's sheer domination at home, the Virat Kohli-led outfit starts as heavy&nbsp;favourites&nbsp;to not only win the first Test but also to win the series.&nbsp;

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India predicted playing XI:&nbsp;Rohit&nbsp;Sharma,&nbsp;Shubman&nbsp;Gill, Cheteshwar&nbsp;Pujara, Virat&nbsp;Kohli,&nbsp;Ajinkya Rahane, Rishabh Pant, Ravichandran Ashwin, Washington Sundar/Axar&nbsp;Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah, Ishant Sharma&nbsp;

India and England are set to kick-start the four-Test series with the opener scheduled to be played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai from Friday. Both India and England are heading into the series on the back of a series wins against Australia and Sri Lanka respectively.

India and England are set to kick-start the four-Test series with the opener scheduled to be played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai from Friday. Both India and England are heading into the series on the back of a series wins against Australia and Sri Lanka respectively. While the series promises to be a cracking contest with both England and India boasting some world-class players, fans are eagerly waiting to witness the clash of giants. India have almost a fully-fit squad with a couple of players missing the Test series due to injuries suffered in the tour of Australia. The likes of Hanuma Vihari, Ravindra Jadeja and Mohammed Shami are missing but the hosts still boast a strong squad which might lead to selection headaches in the Indian camp. While the batting order looks almost set with the likes of Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane, all eyes will be on the bowling combination of the Indian attack as the match will be played in Chennai, which has assisted spinners over the years. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli tops celebrity brand valuation study for fourth consecutive year However, with two back-to-back Test matches scheduled and a debutant curator V Ramesh Kumar taking charge of the proceedings, the MA Chidambaram Stadium could play equal field for both pacers and spinners early on. But India are likely to go with three spinners given England's recent struggle against spin bowling. India last lost a home Test series back in the year 2012 – against England – and has since lost only one Test match, in 2016, on home soil. Given India's sheer domination at home, the Virat Kohli-led outfit starts as heavy favourites to not only win the first Test but also to win the series. ALSO READ: England's Zak Crawley ruled out of first two Tests vs India India predicted playing XI: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, Rishabh Pant, Ravichandran Ashwin, Washington Sundar/Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma

3 spinners and 2 pacers? Team India's predicted playing XI vs England for 1st Test

Tokyo Olympics boss Yoshiro Mori, whose sexist remarks and refusal to resign have sparked outrage in Japan, is a former prime minister known for embarrassing gaffes who led one of the country's least popular governments ever.

From continuing a game of golf after a deadly marine accident off Japan's coast to publicly sneering at the performance of a popular Japanese figure skater, the 83-year-old is no stranger to public missteps.

On Thursday he apologised for saying women "have difficulty" speaking concisely, but then dug a deeper hole when he insisted he had heard complaints that women speak at length.

Mori served as prime minister for just one year between April 2000 and 2001, a short term marked by controversy.

Soon after taking office he declared Japan "a country of gods centred around the emperor" -- a highly controversial statement seen as potentially violating the constitution, which separates religion and politics.

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As prime minister, Mori started with an approval rating of around 30 percent that slid downwards during his term, partly due to his repeated gaffes.

During an election campaign, he said he hoped swing voters who might not support his ruling Liberal Democratic Party would "sleep in on polling day".

His comments backfired and were seen as contributing to a decline in the number of seats won by the party in the lower house.

And towards the end of his term he was widely criticised for continuing a golf game after being informed of the accidental sinking of a Japanese ship by a US submarine.

Since retiring from politics in 2012, Mori has been heavily involved in promoting sports in Japan and played a key role in bringing Asia's first Rugby World Cup to the country in 2019.

An avid rugby fan and amateur player himself, he served as chairman of the Japan Rugby Football Union for 10 years until his term expired in 2015.

He subsequently served as honorary chairman of the organisation but quit just months before the Rugby World Cup, citing health problems.

<h2>- Cancer survivor -</h2>

Mori has spoken publicly about his battle with cancer, even citing his health struggles as reason to be hopeful about the Games going ahead following their postponement in 2020.

"We have no choice but to have hope. I myself suffered cancer... But I was saved by a new drug," he said then.

"I am here, allowed to live... Let us hope for these things."

His remarks have not always been so tactful, and he drew fire during the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics for pouring scorn on Japanese figure-skating heroine Mao Asada following a disastrous routine in Russia.

"That girl, she always falls over whenever it's important," Mori sniped amid widespread disappointment after Asada slipped on her trademark jump to end in lowly 16th position.

Media, fans and fellow athletes hit out at Mori after he said the out-of-form skater should have withdrawn from the team competition.

"She slipped over just like that. We knew Japan couldn't win" the national team competition, he said.

"She wouldn't have had to embarrass herself."

More recently, he raised eyebrows in 2020 when insisting he would work to stay free of coronavirus -- but without wearing a mask.

The comments were slammed as out-of-touch, and Mori subsequently began wearing one.

And on Tuesday, he caused an upset by declaring the delayed Games would go ahead this year "however the coronavirus (pandemic) evolves."

His remarks came with 80 percent of Japanese opposed to holding the Games this year and parts of the country under a virus emergency.

Tokyo Olympics boss Yoshiro Mori, whose sexist remarks and refusal to resign have sparked outrage in Japan, is a former prime minister known for embarrassing gaffes who led one of the country's least popular governments ever.

Tokyo Olympics boss Yoshiro Mori, whose sexist remarks and refusal to resign have sparked outrage in Japan, is a former prime minister known for embarrassing gaffes who led one of the country's least popular governments ever. From continuing a game of golf after a deadly marine accident off Japan's coast to publicly sneering at the performance of a popular Japanese figure skater, the 83-year-old is no stranger to public missteps. On Thursday he apologised for saying women "have difficulty" speaking concisely, but then dug a deeper hole when he insisted he had heard complaints that women speak at length. Mori served as prime minister for just one year between April 2000 and 2001, a short term marked by controversy. Soon after taking office he declared Japan "a country of gods centred around the emperor" -- a highly controversial statement seen as potentially violating the constitution, which separates religion and politics. ALSO READ: Tokyo 2020 boss faces resignation calls over sexist remarks As prime minister, Mori started with an approval rating of around 30 percent that slid downwards during his term, partly due to his repeated gaffes. During an election campaign, he said he hoped swing voters who might not support his ruling Liberal Democratic Party would "sleep in on polling day". His comments backfired and were seen as contributing to a decline in the number of seats won by the party in the lower house. And towards the end of his term he was widely criticised for continuing a golf game after being informed of the accidental sinking of a Japanese ship by a US submarine. Since retiring from politics in 2012, Mori has been heavily involved in promoting sports in Japan and played a key role in bringing Asia's first Rugby World Cup to the country in 2019. An avid rugby fan and amateur player himself, he served as chairman of the Japan Rugby Football Union for 10 years until his term expired in 2015. He subsequently served as honorary chairman of the organisation but quit just months before the Rugby World Cup, citing health problems. - Cancer survivor - Mori has spoken publicly about his battle with cancer, even citing his health struggles as reason to be hopeful about the Games going ahead following their postponement in 2020. "We have no choice but to have hope. I myself suffered cancer... But I was saved by a new drug," he said then. "I am here, allowed to live... Let us hope for these things." His remarks have not always been so tactful, and he drew fire during the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics for pouring scorn on Japanese figure-skating heroine Mao Asada following a disastrous routine in Russia. "That girl, she always falls over whenever it's important," Mori sniped amid widespread disappointment after Asada slipped on her trademark jump to end in lowly 16th position. Media, fans and fellow athletes hit out at Mori after he said the out-of-form skater should have withdrawn from the team competition. "She slipped over just like that. We knew Japan couldn't win" the national team competition, he said. "She wouldn't have had to embarrass herself." More recently, he raised eyebrows in 2020 when insisting he would work to stay free of coronavirus -- but without wearing a mask. The comments were slammed as out-of-touch, and Mori subsequently began wearing one. And on Tuesday, he caused an upset by declaring the delayed Games would go ahead this year "however the coronavirus (pandemic) evolves." His remarks came with 80 percent of Japanese opposed to holding the Games this year and parts of the country under a virus emergency.

Yoshiro Mori: Gaffe-prone Tokyo 2020 chief and former Japan PM

The captain of the Indian cricket team, Virat Kohli has been ranked the most valuable celebrity for the fourth year on the bounce. Kohli's brand valuation remained at&nbsp;$237.7 million despite the&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;pandemic, according to the Celebrity Brand Valuation Study 2020 released by Duff &amp; Phelps.&nbsp;

While the top 10 list is dominated by Bollywood stars, Kohli remains atop the standings and clear of others in the list.&nbsp;

Managing director of Duff &amp; Phelps said that while established celebrities continue to dominate the rankings, millennials with massive social media presence have left a mark in the rankings.&nbsp;

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“While established celebrities continue to dominate our rankings, notable millennials with a strong social media presence continue to climb the ladder. Ayushmann&nbsp;Khurrana, Tiger Shroff and Rohit Sharma all jumped a few spots to grab the No. 6, No. 15 and No. 17 spots, respectively. Further, Kartik Aaryan debuts on our list at No. 20. These rising millennial celebrities were in greater demand during the pandemic owing to their popularity among the youth,” said Aviral Jain, Managing Director, Duff &amp; Phelps.&nbsp;

Duff &amp; Phelps conducted a recent survey and released key findings from the sixth edition&nbsp;of its Celebrity Brand Valuation Study 2020: “Embracing the New Normal.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

The report ranks India's most powerful celebrity brands based on brand value. It is taken from endorsement portfolio and social media presence. With the year 2020 hit by COVID-19, the study examined the impact of the pandemic on both brand value rankings and endorsement space.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/farmers-are-integral-part-of-our-country-virat-kohli-ajinkya-rahane-urge-indians-to-stay-united-361166" hreflang="en">'Farmers are integral part of our country': Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane urge Indians to stay united</a>

According to the study, there is a reduction in marketing and advertising budget due to the pandemic. The lockdown also impacted the endorsement done by the top 20 celebrities in the year 2020. The number of endorsements declined by a noteworthy 3.5 per cent to 357&nbsp;in 2020.&nbsp;“Overall the brand value of the top 20 celebrities in 2020 saw a dip by about 5 per cent compared to 2020 due to pandemic and stood at about $1 billion,” the Duff &amp; Phelps study pointed out.&nbsp;

The film industry was hit the hardest during the pandemic but for the sporting world, the Indian Premier League (IPL) was a major event that ensured the rise of sports celebrities, according to the report.&nbsp;

The captain of the Indian cricket team, Virat Kohli has been ranked the most valuable celebrity for the fourth year on the bounce. Kohli's brand valuation remained at $237.

The captain of the Indian cricket team, Virat Kohli has been ranked the most valuable celebrity for the fourth year on the bounce. Kohli's brand valuation remained at $237.7 million despite the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the Celebrity Brand Valuation Study 2020 released by Duff & Phelps. While the top 10 list is dominated by Bollywood stars, Kohli remains atop the standings and clear of others in the list. Managing director of Duff & Phelps said that while established celebrities continue to dominate the rankings, millennials with massive social media presence have left a mark in the rankings. ALSO READ: ICC announces Decade Awards: From Kohli, Smith to Perry - Here's complete list of winners “While established celebrities continue to dominate our rankings, notable millennials with a strong social media presence continue to climb the ladder. Ayushmann Khurrana, Tiger Shroff and Rohit Sharma all jumped a few spots to grab the No. 6, No. 15 and No. 17 spots, respectively. Further, Kartik Aaryan debuts on our list at No. 20. These rising millennial celebrities were in greater demand during the pandemic owing to their popularity among the youth,” said Aviral Jain, Managing Director, Duff & Phelps. Duff & Phelps conducted a recent survey and released key findings from the sixth edition of its Celebrity Brand Valuation Study 2020: “Embracing the New Normal.” The report ranks India's most powerful celebrity brands based on brand value. It is taken from endorsement portfolio and social media presence. With the year 2020 hit by COVID-19, the study examined the impact of the pandemic on both brand value rankings and endorsement space. ALSO READ: 'Farmers are integral part of our country': Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane urge Indians to stay united According to the study, there is a reduction in marketing and advertising budget due to the pandemic. The lockdown also impacted the endorsement done by the top 20 celebrities in the year 2020. The number of endorsements declined by a noteworthy 3.5 per cent to 357 in 2020. “Overall the brand value of the top 20 celebrities in 2020 saw a dip by about 5 per cent compared to 2020 due to pandemic and stood at about $1 billion,” the Duff & Phelps study pointed out. The film industry was hit the hardest during the pandemic but for the sporting world, the Indian Premier League (IPL) was a major event that ensured the rise of sports celebrities, according to the report.

Virat Kohli tops celebrity brand valuation study for fourth consecutive year

Patrick Mahomes has been virtually unstoppable since becoming the starting quarterback of the Kansas City Chiefs three seasons ago, but said the reigning Super Bowl champions are far from satisfied.

Mahomes, who is 44-9 as a starter, took home Super Bowl MVP honors last year after leading his team to a gutsy, come-from-behind win to end the franchise’s 50-year title drought.

Now he says the team is hungry for more.

“The thing I’m most proud is that no one has become satisfied,” Mahomes told reporters on Wednesday ahead of Sunday’s showdown against the Buccaneers in Tampa.

“No one has become happy with winning one Super Bowl championship,” he said. “Everybody is trying to make themselves better every single day and not trying to take a day for granted. You don’t have that in every single organization or every single locker room.

“It comes with the culture (general manager) Brett Veach and coach (Andy) Reid have instilled in us, and that’s to get better 1% every single day. That’s why we’re in this game and have a chance for another Super Bowl championship.”

Mahomes will be going against veteran quarterback Tom Brady, who is making his 10th Super Bowl appearance and gunning for a record-extending seventh ring.

Patrick Mahomes has been virtually unstoppable since becoming the starting quarterback of the Kansas City Chiefs three seasons ago, but said the reigning Super Bowl champions are far from satisfied.

Patrick Mahomes has been virtually unstoppable since becoming the starting quarterback of the Kansas City Chiefs three seasons ago, but said the reigning Super Bowl champions are far from satisfied. Mahomes, who is 44-9 as a starter, took home Super Bowl MVP honors last year after leading his team to a gutsy, come-from-behind win to end the franchise’s 50-year title drought. Now he says the team is hungry for more. “The thing I’m most proud is that no one has become satisfied,” Mahomes told reporters on Wednesday ahead of Sunday’s showdown against the Buccaneers in Tampa. “No one has become happy with winning one Super Bowl championship,” he said. “Everybody is trying to make themselves better every single day and not trying to take a day for granted. You don’t have that in every single organization or every single locker room. “It comes with the culture (general manager) Brett Veach and coach (Andy) Reid have instilled in us, and that’s to get better 1% every single day. That’s why we’re in this game and have a chance for another Super Bowl championship.” Mahomes will be going against veteran quarterback Tom Brady, who is making his 10th Super Bowl appearance and gunning for a record-extending seventh ring.

NFL: Chiefs not satisfied with one Super Bowl, says Mahomes

Bayern Munich are the overwhelming favourites to cap a remarkable last year as they head to Qatar for the delayed FIFA Club World Cup, taking place later than scheduled because of the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic which overshadows the tournament.

Bayern qualified after their triumph in last season's UEFA Champions League, the crowning moment of a 2020 which also saw Hansi Flick's team win the Bundesliga, German Cup, UEFA Super Cup and German Super Cup.

Now they are hoping to become the eighth consecutive European winner of the Club World Cup, a run that started when Bayern themselves lifted the trophy in Morocco in 2013.

If they do so they can -- albeit with the caveat that this competition is being played in a different calendar year -- match the achievement of Pep Guardiola's Barcelona, who won six trophies in 2009.

"That would probably be the icing on the cake, but it's obviously going to be a challenge," said Flick.

"It's always the case at Bayern Munich that you want to have the most successful season possible and after the treble, you're obviously looking at the FIFA Club World Cup."

Bayern have named all the big guns, from Manuel Neuer to Thomas Mueller and Robert Lewandowski, in their squad ahead of their entrance in the semi-final next Monday against either African champions Al Ahly or host nation representative Al Duhail.

<h2>- Final against Palmeiras? -</h2>

The expectation is that they will go through to the February 11 final and likely face Palmeiras, with the Brazilians fresh from winning the Copa Libertadores last weekend.

Palmeiras play their semi-final on Sunday against either Tigres of Mexico, the CONCACAF Champions League winner, or Ulsan Hyundai of South Korea, who are back in Qatar after winning the Asian Champions League there in December.

Tigres and Ulsan Hyundai kick the tournament off on Thursday when they meet at the Ahmad Bin Ali stadium in Al Rayyan, on the outskirts of Doha.

<h2>- Muted atmosphere, but fans allowed in -</h2>

The mood in Doha is muted compared to the last Club World Cup in December 2019, which saw thousands of supporters of Liverpool and Brazilian giants Flamengo descend on the normally staid city.

This time, the tournament kicks off with Qatar seeing a spike in coronavirus cases and hospital admissions, and local authorities have taken a swathe of measures including banning travelling fans from outside the country.

New cases over the last week jumped by a third compared to the week before, according to official data, while hospital admissions due to Covid-19 are up 85 percent in the past month, according to the country's Ministry of Public Health.

As of Monday, 249 people had died from the virus while the overall case load has topped 151,000 in a country with a population of under three million.

<h2>- Obligatory testing -</h2>

However&nbsp;Abdulwahab al-Musleh, sports affairs adviser to Qatar's health ministry, claimed ahead of the tournament that fans faced a negligible risk of contracting the virus because of the requirement for them to present a negative test ahead of each match.

That comes after the experience of the domestic Emir of Qatar Cup final in December, where all 20,000 fans who attended the half-capacity match were required to present a negative test.

And so while sporting events across much of the world are currently going ahead behind closed doors, a limited number of spectators will be allowed inside Club World Cup games.

Spectator numbers are capped at 30 percent of capacity at each of the two 40,000-seat venues. Social distancing, mask wearing and use of Qatar's contact tracing app will be mandatory.

Meanwhile, following a cluster of cases in the Saudi Al-Hilal team during the AFC Champions League late last year, Musleh said "several measures to prevent that recurring" had been taken.

The pandemic has already directly impacted the tournament though as Oceania champions Auckland City withdrew due to quarantine measures required by the New Zealand authorities.

Despite the spectre of coronavirus, the tournament remains a useful test event for FIFA and organisers ahead of the fast-approaching 2022 World Cup in the country.

Bayern Munich are the overwhelming favourites to cap a remarkable last year as they head to Qatar for the delayed FIFA Club World Cup, taking place later than scheduled because of the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic which overshadows the tournament.

Bayern Munich are the overwhelming favourites to cap a remarkable last year as they head to Qatar for the delayed FIFA Club World Cup, taking place later than scheduled because of the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic which overshadows the tournament. Bayern qualified after their triumph in last season's UEFA Champions League, the crowning moment of a 2020 which also saw Hansi Flick's team win the Bundesliga, German Cup, UEFA Super Cup and German Super Cup. Now they are hoping to become the eighth consecutive European winner of the Club World Cup, a run that started when Bayern themselves lifted the trophy in Morocco in 2013. If they do so they can -- albeit with the caveat that this competition is being played in a different calendar year -- match the achievement of Pep Guardiola's Barcelona, who won six trophies in 2009. "That would probably be the icing on the cake, but it's obviously going to be a challenge," said Flick. "It's always the case at Bayern Munich that you want to have the most successful season possible and after the treble, you're obviously looking at the FIFA Club World Cup." Bayern have named all the big guns, from Manuel Neuer to Thomas Mueller and Robert Lewandowski, in their squad ahead of their entrance in the semi-final next Monday against either African champions Al Ahly or host nation representative Al Duhail. - Final against Palmeiras? - The expectation is that they will go through to the February 11 final and likely face Palmeiras, with the Brazilians fresh from winning the Copa Libertadores last weekend. Palmeiras play their semi-final on Sunday against either Tigres of Mexico, the CONCACAF Champions League winner, or Ulsan Hyundai of South Korea, who are back in Qatar after winning the Asian Champions League there in December. Tigres and Ulsan Hyundai kick the tournament off on Thursday when they meet at the Ahmad Bin Ali stadium in Al Rayyan, on the outskirts of Doha. - Muted atmosphere, but fans allowed in - The mood in Doha is muted compared to the last Club World Cup in December 2019, which saw thousands of supporters of Liverpool and Brazilian giants Flamengo descend on the normally staid city. This time, the tournament kicks off with Qatar seeing a spike in coronavirus cases and hospital admissions, and local authorities have taken a swathe of measures including banning travelling fans from outside the country. New cases over the last week jumped by a third compared to the week before, according to official data, while hospital admissions due to Covid-19 are up 85 percent in the past month, according to the country's Ministry of Public Health. As of Monday, 249 people had died from the virus while the overall case load has topped 151,000 in a country with a population of under three million. - Obligatory testing - However Abdulwahab al-Musleh, sports affairs adviser to Qatar's health ministry, claimed ahead of the tournament that fans faced a negligible risk of contracting the virus because of the requirement for them to present a negative test ahead of each match. That comes after the experience of the domestic Emir of Qatar Cup final in December, where all 20,000 fans who attended the half-capacity match were required to present a negative test. And so while sporting events across much of the world are currently going ahead behind closed doors, a limited number of spectators will be allowed inside Club World Cup games. Spectator numbers are capped at 30 percent of capacity at each of the two 40,000-seat venues. Social distancing, mask wearing and use of Qatar's contact tracing app will be mandatory. Meanwhile, following a cluster of cases in the Saudi Al-Hilal team during the AFC Champions League late last year, Musleh said "several measures to prevent that recurring" had been taken. The pandemic has already directly impacted the tournament though as Oceania champions Auckland City withdrew due to quarantine measures required by the New Zealand authorities. Despite the spectre of coronavirus, the tournament remains a useful test event for FIFA and organisers ahead of the fast-approaching 2022 World Cup in the country.

Covid tests for fans, limited crowds and Bayern favourites - Club World Cup kicks off in Qatar

Alexander Zverev rallied from a set down to beat dangerous Canadian Denis Shapovalov and open his season with a fighting victory in the ATP Cup, while in-form Matteo Berrettini steered Italy into the semi-finals on Wednesday.

The seventh-ranked German had to dig deep for his 6-7 (5/7), 6-3, 7-6 (7/4) win to seal the tie, but gained valuable court time ahead of another crack at a first Grand Slam trophy at the Australian Open starting next week.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Zverev, who fell agonisingly short in the US Open final last year to Dominic Thiem, said having his brother Mischa as team captain had helped him.

"All the players enjoy having him as captain, he's been fantastic in training as well. It's just great to have him here," he said.

Germany's Jan-Lennard Struff upset Milos Raonic 7-6 (7/4), 7-6 (7/2) in the opening match and Canada are now out after a second narrow loss for Shapovalov, who pushed Novak Djokovic hard in their Group A clash on Tuesday.

Djokovic's defending champions beat Canada 2-1 in their opener on Tuesday and will play Germany on Thursday for a place in the semis.

<h2>- Berrettini delivers -</h2>

Italy became the first nation into the last four by beating France to follow their opening win against Austria in Group C.

Fabio Fognini won just five games in his ATP Cup opener on Tuesday against Denis Novak, but bounced back to battle past Benoit Paire 6-1, 7-6 (7/2) and give Italy a 1-0 lead.

Berrettini, tipped by Djokovic as among the new generation capable of winning a Grand Slam, clinched the tie with a comfortable 6-4, 6-2 victory over Gael Monfils, ranked a place below him at 11.

"I was ready for any score. I kept going," said Berrettini, who recovered from going down an early break in the first set. "I thought about my weapons and that's how I won the match.

"It's a great team, great guys. We are enjoying on court, but off court as well," he added. "I think when you're playing for your country, for your team, it's something special."

Russia, the only nation playing with two top 10 stars in Daniil Medvedev and Andrey Rublev, could also make the semis if they beat Kei Nishikori's Japan in their evening clash in Group D.

Hosts Australia, who lost to Rafael Nadal's Spain in their opening Group B tie, face a Greek team spearheaded by Stefanos Tsitsipas on Wednesday evening.

Serbia overcame Spain in the final of the inaugural and hugely popular tournament last year in Sydney -- launched as a rival to the Davis Cup.

It has been slimmed down from 24 teams to 12 this year due to the coronavirus over five days at Melbourne Park with $7.5 million at stake, rather than the multi-city format employed in 2020.

Alexander Zverev rallied from a set down to beat dangerous Canadian Denis Shapovalov and open his season with a fighting victory in the ATP Cup, while in-form Matteo Berrettini steered Italy into the semi-finals on Wednesday.

Alexander Zverev rallied from a set down to beat dangerous Canadian Denis Shapovalov and open his season with a fighting victory in the ATP Cup, while in-form Matteo Berrettini steered Italy into the semi-finals on Wednesday. The seventh-ranked German had to dig deep for his 6-7 (5/7), 6-3, 7-6 (7/4) win to seal the tie, but gained valuable court time ahead of another crack at a first Grand Slam trophy at the Australian Open starting next week. Zverev, who fell agonisingly short in the US Open final last year to Dominic Thiem, said having his brother Mischa as team captain had helped him. "All the players enjoy having him as captain, he's been fantastic in training as well. It's just great to have him here," he said. Germany's Jan-Lennard Struff upset Milos Raonic 7-6 (7/4), 7-6 (7/2) in the opening match and Canada are now out after a second narrow loss for Shapovalov, who pushed Novak Djokovic hard in their Group A clash on Tuesday. Djokovic's defending champions beat Canada 2-1 in their opener on Tuesday and will play Germany on Thursday for a place in the semis. - Berrettini delivers - Italy became the first nation into the last four by beating France to follow their opening win against Austria in Group C. Fabio Fognini won just five games in his ATP Cup opener on Tuesday against Denis Novak, but bounced back to battle past Benoit Paire 6-1, 7-6 (7/2) and give Italy a 1-0 lead. Berrettini, tipped by Djokovic as among the new generation capable of winning a Grand Slam, clinched the tie with a comfortable 6-4, 6-2 victory over Gael Monfils, ranked a place below him at 11. "I was ready for any score. I kept going," said Berrettini, who recovered from going down an early break in the first set. "I thought about my weapons and that's how I won the match. "It's a great team, great guys. We are enjoying on court, but off court as well," he added. "I think when you're playing for your country, for your team, it's something special." Russia, the only nation playing with two top 10 stars in Daniil Medvedev and Andrey Rublev, could also make the semis if they beat Kei Nishikori's Japan in their evening clash in Group D. Hosts Australia, who lost to Rafael Nadal's Spain in their opening Group B tie, face a Greek team spearheaded by Stefanos Tsitsipas on Wednesday evening. Serbia overcame Spain in the final of the inaugural and hugely popular tournament last year in Sydney -- launched as a rival to the Davis Cup. It has been slimmed down from 24 teams to 12 this year due to the coronavirus over five days at Melbourne Park with $7.5 million at stake, rather than the multi-city format employed in 2020.

Zverev battles to ATP Cup win over Shapovalov, Italy reach semis

Paceman Jofra Archer said Tuesday that "body management" will be crucial during a busy year of cricket for England as he returns after a break for the Test clash in India.

England, who have at least 17 Tests including the Ashes scheduled in 2021, begin their four-match India series in Chennai on Friday.

The 25-year-old Archer, along with Ben Stokes, was rested for the Sri Lanka tour as Joe Root's England swept the two-Test series 2-0 last month.

"It's going to be a long long year," Archer told reporters after a training session in Chennai.

"We've got a few series coming up. I think body management is going to be essential if I want to play everything, almost everything."

The Barbados-born bowler joined his teammates including coach Chris Silverwood and Jos Buttler in lauding the England and Wales Cricket board for their rest-and-rotate policy during the coronavirus pandemic.

"Anyone that's criticising it never spent time in the bubble. One golfer left after four days. We have been in here for almost a year now," he said.

"At the end of the day humans are social people and sometimes it gets hard, especially if you've not had a great game or if you are not feeling good but then in cricket there is no escape."

He added: "I think the ECB has made it really great to give people (time off), myself I had six weeks away.

"I think Jos (Buttler) is done after this game and for a little bit Sam's (Curran) gone. So they are making a priority, everyone gets time away, so that we can come back refreshed and ready to go."

Archer, who has become a key part of England's pace attack since making his debut in 2019, said he is ready to be in the team bubble for a few months ahead.&nbsp;

"I don't mind to be honest because I know that I would get time away so I'm just going to follow the job at hand now," said Archer.

"And if it gets too overbearing then there is no shame in saying that. But I think right now I am good to go until at least July."

Archer has claimed 38 wickets in 11 Tests and 37 scalps in 24 limited-overs matches for the national team.

Paceman Jofra Archer said Tuesday that "body management" will be crucial during a busy year of cricket for England as he returns after a break for the Test clash in India.

Paceman Jofra Archer said Tuesday that "body management" will be crucial during a busy year of cricket for England as he returns after a break for the Test clash in India. England, who have at least 17 Tests including the Ashes scheduled in 2021, begin their four-match India series in Chennai on Friday. The 25-year-old Archer, along with Ben Stokes, was rested for the Sri Lanka tour as Joe Root's England swept the two-Test series 2-0 last month. "It's going to be a long long year," Archer told reporters after a training session in Chennai. "We've got a few series coming up. I think body management is going to be essential if I want to play everything, almost everything." The Barbados-born bowler joined his teammates including coach Chris Silverwood and Jos Buttler in lauding the England and Wales Cricket board for their rest-and-rotate policy during the coronavirus pandemic. "Anyone that's criticising it never spent time in the bubble. One golfer left after four days. We have been in here for almost a year now," he said. "At the end of the day humans are social people and sometimes it gets hard, especially if you've not had a great game or if you are not feeling good but then in cricket there is no escape." He added: "I think the ECB has made it really great to give people (time off), myself I had six weeks away. "I think Jos (Buttler) is done after this game and for a little bit Sam's (Curran) gone. So they are making a priority, everyone gets time away, so that we can come back refreshed and ready to go." Archer, who has become a key part of England's pace attack since making his debut in 2019, said he is ready to be in the team bubble for a few months ahead. "I don't mind to be honest because I know that I would get time away so I'm just going to follow the job at hand now," said Archer. "And if it gets too overbearing then there is no shame in saying that. But I think right now I am good to go until at least July." Archer has claimed 38 wickets in 11 Tests and 37 scalps in 24 limited-overs matches for the national team.

Archer says 'body management' key in busy England calender

Manchester United thrashed Southampton 9-0 on Tuesday to equal the biggest win in Premier League history.

Goals from Marcus Rashford, Anthony Martial (2), Scott McTominay, Bruno Fernandes, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Edinson Cavani, Daniel James and a Jan Bednarek own goal comprised United's scoring spree.

Here, AFP Sport looks at the other three occasions a team has scored nine goals in the Premier League era:

<h2>Southampton 0 Leicester 9 (2019)</h2>

Remarkably, Southampton's humiliation at Old Trafford wasn't the first time they had endured a nine-goal thumping in Ralph Hasenhuttl's reign as manager.

Leicester put them to the sword in ruthless fashion after Southampton had defender Ryan Bertrand sent off for a studs-up challenge on Ayoze Perez in the build-up to the opening goal.

Ben Chilwell got that goal in the 10th minute and Perez went on to complete a hat-trick.

Jamie Vardy got a hat-trick, while Youri Tielemans and James Maddison also hit the back of the net in the biggest away win in English top-flight history.

<h2>Tottenham 9 Wigan 1 (2009)</h2>

Tottenham striker Jermain Defoe scored five times in the second half, notching what was then the Premier League's second-quickest hat-trick in seven minutes.

At that time, Defoe became only the third player to score five goals in a single Premier League match after Alan Shearer and Andy Cole.

Aaron Lennon, Peter Crouch, David Bentley and Niko Kranjcar were also on target as hapless Wigan were ripped to shreds at White Hart Lane.

<h2>Manchester United 9 Ipswich 0 (1995)</h2>

Andy Cole sparked United's biggest league victory in 103 years as he scored five times at Old Trafford.

United scored six in the second half, with Mark Hughes on target twice.

Paul Ince and Roy Keane also netted for Alex Ferguson's team against an Ipswich side who finished bottom at the end of the season.

Despite that ruthless display, United were pipped to the title by Blackburn.

Manchester United thrashed Southampton 9-0 on Tuesday to equal the biggest win in Premier League history. Goals from Marcus Rashford, Anthony Martial (2), Scott McTominay, Bruno Fernandes, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Edinson Cavani, Daniel James and a Jan Bednarek own goal comprised United's scoring spree.

Manchester United thrashed Southampton 9-0 on Tuesday to equal the biggest win in Premier League history. Goals from Marcus Rashford, Anthony Martial (2), Scott McTominay, Bruno Fernandes, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Edinson Cavani, Daniel James and a Jan Bednarek own goal comprised United's scoring spree. Here, AFP Sport looks at the other three occasions a team has scored nine goals in the Premier League era: Southampton 0 Leicester 9 (2019) Remarkably, Southampton's humiliation at Old Trafford wasn't the first time they had endured a nine-goal thumping in Ralph Hasenhuttl's reign as manager. Leicester put them to the sword in ruthless fashion after Southampton had defender Ryan Bertrand sent off for a studs-up challenge on Ayoze Perez in the build-up to the opening goal. Ben Chilwell got that goal in the 10th minute and Perez went on to complete a hat-trick. Jamie Vardy got a hat-trick, while Youri Tielemans and James Maddison also hit the back of the net in the biggest away win in English top-flight history. Tottenham 9 Wigan 1 (2009) Tottenham striker Jermain Defoe scored five times in the second half, notching what was then the Premier League's second-quickest hat-trick in seven minutes. At that time, Defoe became only the third player to score five goals in a single Premier League match after Alan Shearer and Andy Cole. Aaron Lennon, Peter Crouch, David Bentley and Niko Kranjcar were also on target as hapless Wigan were ripped to shreds at White Hart Lane. Manchester United 9 Ipswich 0 (1995) Andy Cole sparked United's biggest league victory in 103 years as he scored five times at Old Trafford. United scored six in the second half, with Mark Hughes on target twice. Paul Ince and Roy Keane also netted for Alex Ferguson's team against an Ipswich side who finished bottom at the end of the season. Despite that ruthless display, United were pipped to the title by Blackburn.

The Premier League's nine-goal demolitions

Manchester United matched the Premier League record&nbsp;win with a 9-0 demolition of nine-man Southampton on Tuesday to move level on points with Manchester City at the top of the table.

It is the second consecutive campaign Saints have suffered a 9-0 thrashing after Leicester last season at St Mary's equalled the record set by United against Ipswich in 1995.

The visitors were punished for Alexandre Jankewitz's second-minute red card&nbsp;on his Premier League debut.

Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Marcus Rashford, Edinson Cavani and Jan Bednarek's own goal made it 4-0 before half-time.

Anthony Martial came off the bench to score twice in the second half, while Scott McTominay, Bruno Fernandes and Daniel James also netted either side of Bednarek's late dismissal.

City have two games in hand on United to reassert their advantage in the title race, the first of which comes at Burnley on Wednesday.

But United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer evoked memories of the 2011/12 title race that City snatched on goal difference from their local rivals as the reason why his side had to show no mercy.

"We know better than anyone what goal difference can do to you because we have lost the league on goal difference," said the Norwegian.

Solskjaer had called on his forward players to be more clinical after a number of missed chances cost United in a shock 2-1 defeat to Sheffield United and 0-0 draw at Arsenal over the past week.

Rashford, Martial and Fernandes had all seen goals dry up in 2021, but Solskjaer is hoping they will now have the perfect confidence boost heading into the second half of the season.

"We've been waiting for them to show the magic and it was a night for them to go and enjoy it," he added. "We've not had many times where we could just enjoy the second half."

<h2>- Southampton 'helpless' -</h2>

Ralph Hasenhuttl survived the 9-0 thrashing by Leicester to turn his time in charge of Southampton around.

But after a bright start to the season, the Saints have lost four consecutive leagues games to slip to 12th.

Southampton were already decimated by an injury crisis that led to Jankewitz getting his chance before the 19-year-old lunged into McTominay after just 79 seconds.

"He punished the guys who were on the pitch. They were helpless after he is sent off," said Hasenhuttl.

"You know the 90 minutes can be very long against a team of this quality. The result is there and we have to live with the result again.

"It doesn't reflect what we did this season so far. It's hard to explain. We have to live with this again."

Wan-Bissaka opened the floodgates on 18 minutes when he scored just his second goal for the club by meeting Luke Shaw's cross at the back post.

Rashford then converted Mason Greenwood's cross and it was from his driven low ball across the box that Bednarek turned into his own net.

Cavani powered home a header from another Shaw cross before the Uruguayan thought he had won a penalty.

A VAR review gave Southampton a rare let-off as instead a free-kick on the edge of the box was awarded.

However, Hasenhuttl's men were denied themselves after the break when Che Adams had a consolation strike ruled out for a marginal offside.

The goals at the other end kept on coming as Martial ended his eight-game goal drought with a thumping finish from Fernandes's through ball.

McTominay then drilled home a low effort from long range.

A nightmare night for the visitors continued when Bednarek was harshly sent off after another lengthy VAR review for clipping Martial as he bore down on goal.

Fernandes coolly converted the resulting penalty to end his own five-game goalless run in the league.

Martial then controlled and finished Wan-Bissaka's cross before James inflicted the final blow in stoppage time by flicking home Fernandes's header.

Manchester United matched the Premier League record win with a 9-0 demolition of nine-man Southampton on Tuesday to move level on points with Manchester City at the top of the table.

Manchester United matched the Premier League record win with a 9-0 demolition of nine-man Southampton on Tuesday to move level on points with Manchester City at the top of the table. It is the second consecutive campaign Saints have suffered a 9-0 thrashing after Leicester last season at St Mary's equalled the record set by United against Ipswich in 1995. The visitors were punished for Alexandre Jankewitz's second-minute red card on his Premier League debut. Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Marcus Rashford, Edinson Cavani and Jan Bednarek's own goal made it 4-0 before half-time. Anthony Martial came off the bench to score twice in the second half, while Scott McTominay, Bruno Fernandes and Daniel James also netted either side of Bednarek's late dismissal. City have two games in hand on United to reassert their advantage in the title race, the first of which comes at Burnley on Wednesday. But United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer evoked memories of the 2011/12 title race that City snatched on goal difference from their local rivals as the reason why his side had to show no mercy. "We know better than anyone what goal difference can do to you because we have lost the league on goal difference," said the Norwegian. Solskjaer had called on his forward players to be more clinical after a number of missed chances cost United in a shock 2-1 defeat to Sheffield United and 0-0 draw at Arsenal over the past week. Rashford, Martial and Fernandes had all seen goals dry up in 2021, but Solskjaer is hoping they will now have the perfect confidence boost heading into the second half of the season. "We've been waiting for them to show the magic and it was a night for them to go and enjoy it," he added. "We've not had many times where we could just enjoy the second half." - Southampton 'helpless' - Ralph Hasenhuttl survived the 9-0 thrashing by Leicester to turn his time in charge of Southampton around. But after a bright start to the season, the Saints have lost four consecutive leagues games to slip to 12th. Southampton were already decimated by an injury crisis that led to Jankewitz getting his chance before the 19-year-old lunged into McTominay after just 79 seconds. "He punished the guys who were on the pitch. They were helpless after he is sent off," said Hasenhuttl. "You know the 90 minutes can be very long against a team of this quality. The result is there and we have to live with the result again. "It doesn't reflect what we did this season so far. It's hard to explain. We have to live with this again." Wan-Bissaka opened the floodgates on 18 minutes when he scored just his second goal for the club by meeting Luke Shaw's cross at the back post. Rashford then converted Mason Greenwood's cross and it was from his driven low ball across the box that Bednarek turned into his own net. Cavani powered home a header from another Shaw cross before the Uruguayan thought he had won a penalty. A VAR review gave Southampton a rare let-off as instead a free-kick on the edge of the box was awarded. However, Hasenhuttl's men were denied themselves after the break when Che Adams had a consolation strike ruled out for a marginal offside. The goals at the other end kept on coming as Martial ended his eight-game goal drought with a thumping finish from Fernandes's through ball. McTominay then drilled home a low effort from long range. A nightmare night for the visitors continued when Bednarek was harshly sent off after another lengthy VAR review for clipping Martial as he bore down on goal. Fernandes coolly converted the resulting penalty to end his own five-game goalless run in the league. Martial then controlled and finished Wan-Bissaka's cross before James inflicted the final blow in stoppage time by flicking home Fernandes's header.

Merciless Man Utd equal record in 9-0 thrashing of Southampton

Team India's Test vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane on Wednesday congratulated New Zealand for becoming the first team to qualify for the final of ICC World Test Championship, to be held on June 18-22 in England. Rahane while lauding New Zealand asserted that India shouldn't get complacent thinking about the&nbsp;WTC final and added that focus of the Indian team remains on the impending England series.&nbsp;

“It&nbsp;(WTC final)&nbsp;is still four months away. We are focused on the England series,” Rahane said at a virtual media interaction&nbsp;on Wednesday ahead of India's first Test against England at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.&nbsp;&nbsp;

After the postponement of the Test series between South Africa and Australia, New Zealand became the first team to qualify for the&nbsp;inaugural&nbsp;edition of the ICC World Test Championship. While Australia and England are still in contention to feature in the summit clash, India's domination at home means the Virat Kohli-led outfit stands&nbsp;favourite&nbsp;to&nbsp;qualify&nbsp;for the final.&nbsp;

“New Zealand has been doing well and deserve to be there [in the final]. We know every&nbsp;series,&nbsp;every game is important in this WTC.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/joe-root-eyes-illustrious-records-in-chennai-test-against-india-361081" hreflang="en">Joe Root eyes illustrious records in Chennai Test against India</a>

“The series win in Australia was special but that's in the past. We are taking it one match at a time. We respect the England team. They did well in Sri Lanka, so we have to back our strengths and play good cricket as a unit."&nbsp;

Rahane's captaincy was one of the biggest talking points from India's historic success against Australia as the 32-year-old led the Indian side to perfection. However, Virat Kohli is now back with the squad and has taken over the charge as the leader&nbsp;of the ship.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"He (Kohli) had to return home from Australia for personal reasons. That's why I became the skipper. I am really happy that he is back with us," Rahane said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“My job is to help Virat. A captain has too many things on his mind. As vice-captain, you have to&nbsp;visualise&nbsp;a situation, think about what can happen in the game, and if the captain asks you for suggestions, you should be ready. My job is quite easy. I take a backseat as vice-captain."&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/winning-test-series-in-india-bigger-than-ashes-opines-matt-prior-361030" hreflang="en">Winning Test series in India 'bigger' than Ashes, opines Matt Prior</a>

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💬 My job becomes easy when <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> is around: <a href="https://twitter.com/ajinkyarahane88?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ajinkyarahane88</a> 
 
🗣️🗣️ Vice-captain Rahane on his camaraderie with Captain Virat Kohli &amp; driving <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> forward 🤜🏻🤛🏻 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> <a href="https://t.co/AW2cNYJ7RP">pic.twitter.com/AW2cNYJ7RP</a>
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When asked about team combination for the Chennai Test at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, Rahane said they will take a call after the practice session on the eve of the match.&nbsp;

&nbsp;“We will take a call on the Playing XI after our practice session tomorrow.”&nbsp;

Team India's Test vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane on Wednesday congratulated New Zealand for becoming the first team to qualify for the final of ICC World Test Championship, to be held on June 18-22 in England.

Team India's Test vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane on Wednesday congratulated New Zealand for becoming the first team to qualify for the final of ICC World Test Championship, to be held on June 18-22 in England. Rahane while lauding New Zealand asserted that India shouldn't get complacent thinking about the WTC final and added that focus of the Indian team remains on the impending England series. “It (WTC final) is still four months away. We are focused on the England series,” Rahane said at a virtual media interaction on Wednesday ahead of India's first Test against England at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. After the postponement of the Test series between South Africa and Australia, New Zealand became the first team to qualify for the inaugural edition of the ICC World Test Championship. While Australia and England are still in contention to feature in the summit clash, India's domination at home means the Virat Kohli-led outfit stands favourite to qualify for the final. “New Zealand has been doing well and deserve to be there [in the final]. We know every series, every game is important in this WTC. ALSO READ: Joe Root eyes illustrious records in Chennai Test against India “The series win in Australia was special but that's in the past. We are taking it one match at a time. We respect the England team. They did well in Sri Lanka, so we have to back our strengths and play good cricket as a unit." Rahane's captaincy was one of the biggest talking points from India's historic success against Australia as the 32-year-old led the Indian side to perfection. However, Virat Kohli is now back with the squad and has taken over the charge as the leader of the ship. "He (Kohli) had to return home from Australia for personal reasons. That's why I became the skipper. I am really happy that he is back with us," Rahane said. “My job is to help Virat. A captain has too many things on his mind. As vice-captain, you have to visualise a situation, think about what can happen in the game, and if the captain asks you for suggestions, you should be ready. My job is quite easy. I take a backseat as vice-captain." ALSO READ: Winning Test series in India 'bigger' than Ashes, opines Matt Prior 💬 My job becomes easy when @imVkohli is around: @ajinkyarahane88 🗣️🗣️ Vice-captain Rahane on his camaraderie with Captain Virat Kohli & driving #TeamIndia forward 🤜🏻🤛🏻 #INDvENG pic.twitter.com/AW2cNYJ7RP — BCCI (@BCCI) February 3, 2021 × When asked about team combination for the Chennai Test at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, Rahane said they will take a call after the practice session on the eve of the match. “We will take a call on the Playing XI after our practice session tomorrow.”

New Zealand deserve to be in WTC final, India focused on England series: Ajinkya Rahane

Tokyo Olympics 2020 boss Yoshiro Mori has sparked a sexism row after it was reported on Wednesday that he said&nbsp;"board of directors meetings with many women may take a lot of time"&nbsp;because they "have difficulty" in speaking concisely.&nbsp;

Mori is widely known for his public gaffes and the 83-year-old former prime minister told the members of the Japanese Olympic Committee (JOC) that&nbsp;"meetings with women take a lot of time", according to the Asahi Shimbun daily.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"When you increase the number of female executive members, if their speaking time isn't restricted to a certain extent, they have difficulty finishing, which is annoying," he said, as some members of the council reportedly laughed.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Japan heavily trails on promoting gender equality with the country ranking 121 out of 153 nations&nbsp;surveyed&nbsp;in the 2020 global gender gap report by the World Economic Forum.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics-will-happen-however-coronavirus-evolves-tokyo-2020-chief-360819" hreflang="en">Olympics will happen 'however coronavirus evolves': Tokyo 2020 chief</a>

Interestingly, the JOC in 2020 decided to aim for more than 40 per cent of female members at the board. However, as of November, there were just five women among the board's 24 members.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"We have about seven women at the&nbsp;organising&nbsp;committee but everyone understands their place," Mori added at the Wednesday meeting, which was open to the media, the Asahi said.&nbsp;

Tokyo 2020 didn't respond to a request for a comment on the controversial remarks by Mori, reported AFP.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/isl-club-odisha-fc-sack-head-coach-stuart-baxter-after-shocking-rape-analogy-360818" hreflang="en">ISL club Odisha FC sack head coach Stuart Baxter after shocking rape analogy</a>

"Women are competitive," Mori reportedly added. "When one person raises a hand, others think they need to speak up as well. That's why everyone speaks."&nbsp;

Mori's controversial sexism remarks come with increased scrutiny on&nbsp;organisers&nbsp;with the authority insisting that the pandemic-postponed Tokyo Olympics can go ahead despite surging virus cases in the country and in parts of the world.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, Mori said the Games would go ahead "however the coronavirus (pandemic) evolves".&nbsp;&nbsp;

In December, the Japanese government delayed an almost two-decades-old&nbsp;target&nbsp;to have at least 30 per cent of leadership positions occupied by women by the end of 2020.&nbsp;

(With AFP inputs)&nbsp;

Tokyo Olympics 2020 boss Yoshiro Mori has sparked a sexism row after it was reported on Wednesday that he said "board of directors meetings with many women may take a lot of time" because they "have difficulty" in speaking concisely.

Tokyo Olympics 2020 boss Yoshiro Mori has sparked a sexism row after it was reported on Wednesday that he said "board of directors meetings with many women may take a lot of time" because they "have difficulty" in speaking concisely. Mori is widely known for his public gaffes and the 83-year-old former prime minister told the members of the Japanese Olympic Committee (JOC) that "meetings with women take a lot of time", according to the Asahi Shimbun daily. "When you increase the number of female executive members, if their speaking time isn't restricted to a certain extent, they have difficulty finishing, which is annoying," he said, as some members of the council reportedly laughed. Japan heavily trails on promoting gender equality with the country ranking 121 out of 153 nations surveyed in the 2020 global gender gap report by the World Economic Forum. ALSO READ: Olympics will happen 'however coronavirus evolves': Tokyo 2020 chief Interestingly, the JOC in 2020 decided to aim for more than 40 per cent of female members at the board. However, as of November, there were just five women among the board's 24 members. "We have about seven women at the organising committee but everyone understands their place," Mori added at the Wednesday meeting, which was open to the media, the Asahi said. Tokyo 2020 didn't respond to a request for a comment on the controversial remarks by Mori, reported AFP. ALSO READ: ISL club Odisha FC sack head coach Stuart Baxter after shocking rape analogy "Women are competitive," Mori reportedly added. "When one person raises a hand, others think they need to speak up as well. That's why everyone speaks." Mori's controversial sexism remarks come with increased scrutiny on organisers with the authority insisting that the pandemic-postponed Tokyo Olympics can go ahead despite surging virus cases in the country and in parts of the world. On Tuesday, Mori said the Games would go ahead "however the coronavirus (pandemic) evolves". In December, the Japanese government delayed an almost two-decades-old target to have at least 30 per cent of leadership positions occupied by women by the end of 2020. (With AFP inputs)

Tokyo Olympics 2020 chief sparks controversy with sexist remarks: Report

England Test captain Joe Root will be eyeing two illustrious records when he takes the field against India in the first Test at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on February 5.&nbsp;Root was in splendid form during England's recent 2-0 Test series win over Sri Lanka where the English skipper amassed 426 runs in 2 Tests.&nbsp;

Root is all set to play his 100th&nbsp;Test match, which will put him in an elite list of England cricketers with over 100 Test appearances.&nbsp;And Root's 100th&nbsp;Test will also provide an opportunity for him to surpass his former captain Alastair Cook for a unique batting record against India.&nbsp;

Root, thus far, has 49 Test half-centuries under his belt, putting him second on the list of most half-centuries scored by an English batsman in the longest format of the game. Cook leads the chart with as many as 57 Test fifties.&nbsp;Hence, a single fifty by Root in the Chennai Test against India will&nbsp;make him only the second English batsman to post 50 half-centuries in Test cricket.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/huge-worry-for-the-game-michael-vaughan-expresses-concerns-over-sa-vs-aus-series-postponement-361056" hreflang="en">'Huge worry for the game': Michael Vaughan expresses concerns over SA vs AUS series postponement</a>

The 30-year-old is eyeing another landmark in Test cricket as the England captain is just one fifty away from scoring most half-centuries against India in the impending series. If Root scores a half-century in the Chennai Test, he will overtake Cook's record of scoring most half-centuries by an English batsman against India. Both Root and Cook are tied at nine half-centuries against India.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/winning-test-series-in-india-bigger-than-ashes-opines-matt-prior-361030" hreflang="en">Winning Test series in India 'bigger' than Ashes, opines Matt Prior</a>

Meanwhile,&nbsp;batsman Ollie Pope has been added to the England Test squad for the tour of India.&nbsp;Pope has fully recovered from a left shoulder injury sustained in August 2020 against Pakistan. The England medical team are satisfied that he is available for selection.&nbsp;The 23-year-old has&nbsp;practised&nbsp;with the full squad over the past two days.&nbsp;&nbsp;

England Test captain Joe Root will be eyeing two illustrious records when he takes the field against India in the first Test at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on February 5.

England Test captain Joe Root will be eyeing two illustrious records when he takes the field against India in the first Test at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on February 5. Root was in splendid form during England's recent 2-0 Test series win over Sri Lanka where the English skipper amassed 426 runs in 2 Tests. Root is all set to play his 100th Test match, which will put him in an elite list of England cricketers with over 100 Test appearances. And Root's 100th Test will also provide an opportunity for him to surpass his former captain Alastair Cook for a unique batting record against India. Root, thus far, has 49 Test half-centuries under his belt, putting him second on the list of most half-centuries scored by an English batsman in the longest format of the game. Cook leads the chart with as many as 57 Test fifties. Hence, a single fifty by Root in the Chennai Test against India will make him only the second English batsman to post 50 half-centuries in Test cricket. ALSO READ: 'Huge worry for the game': Michael Vaughan expresses concerns over SA vs AUS series postponement The 30-year-old is eyeing another landmark in Test cricket as the England captain is just one fifty away from scoring most half-centuries against India in the impending series. If Root scores a half-century in the Chennai Test, he will overtake Cook's record of scoring most half-centuries by an English batsman against India. Both Root and Cook are tied at nine half-centuries against India. ALSO READ: Winning Test series in India 'bigger' than Ashes, opines Matt Prior Meanwhile, batsman Ollie Pope has been added to the England Test squad for the tour of India. Pope has fully recovered from a left shoulder injury sustained in August 2020 against Pakistan. The England medical team are satisfied that he is available for selection. The 23-year-old has practised with the full squad over the past two days.

Joe Root eyes illustrious records in Chennai Test against India

Former England captain Michael Vaughan has expressed his concerns over Australia's decision to postpone their tour of South Africa as he called the decision a "huge worry" for cricket.&nbsp;

Cricket Australia on Tuesday called off the tour citing COVID-19 risk for the visitors. Cricket South Africa, in response, posted a strong-worded&nbsp;statement as they called the decision "regrettable".&nbsp;&nbsp;

Questioning the decision of Cricket Australia to postpone the South Africa series, Vaughan asked whether they would have done the same had it been a tour of India. The former England skipper added that the 'Big 3' of India, England and Australia&nbsp;should do everything to help other cricket boards in a bid to overcome the financial loss suffered during the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;"The Aussies pulling out of the tour of SA is a huge worry for the game ... Would they have pulled out of a tour to India is the question&nbsp;?? !!&nbsp;It's so important in these times that the big 3 do everything they can to help out those without the financial clout ... #JustSaying," Vaughan tweeted.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/winning-test-series-in-india-bigger-than-ashes-opines-matt-prior-361030" hreflang="en">Winning Test series in India 'bigger' than Ashes, opines Matt Prior</a>

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The Aussies pulling out of the tour of SA is a huge worry for the game ... Would they have pulled out of a tour to India is the question ?? !! It’s so important in these times that the big 3 do everything they can to help out those without the financial clout ... <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JustSaying?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JustSaying</a>
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With the series between Australia and South Africa postponed, the ICC on Tuesday confirmed that New Zealand have now become the first team to qualify for the finals of the&nbsp;ICC&nbsp;World Test Championship (WTC).&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/archer-says-body-management-key-in-busy-england-calender-361017" hreflang="en">Archer says 'body management' key in busy England calender</a>

As things stand, India, Australia and England are the other three teams in contention to make it to the final of World Test Championship, scheduled to be held from June 18-22.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While Vaughan has expressed his disappointment over Cricket Australia's decision to postpone the tour, similar sentiments were shared by the cricket fans on social media platforms.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Former England captain Michael Vaughan has expressed his concerns over Australia's decision to postpone their tour of South Africa as he called the decision a "huge worry" for cricket.

Former England captain Michael Vaughan has expressed his concerns over Australia's decision to postpone their tour of South Africa as he called the decision a "huge worry" for cricket. Cricket Australia on Tuesday called off the tour citing COVID-19 risk for the visitors. Cricket South Africa, in response, posted a strong-worded statement as they called the decision "regrettable". Questioning the decision of Cricket Australia to postpone the South Africa series, Vaughan asked whether they would have done the same had it been a tour of India. The former England skipper added that the 'Big 3' of India, England and Australia should do everything to help other cricket boards in a bid to overcome the financial loss suffered during the coronavirus pandemic. "The Aussies pulling out of the tour of SA is a huge worry for the game ... Would they have pulled out of a tour to India is the question ?? !! It's so important in these times that the big 3 do everything they can to help out those without the financial clout ... #JustSaying," Vaughan tweeted. ALSO READ: Winning Test series in India 'bigger' than Ashes, opines Matt Prior The Aussies pulling out of the tour of SA is a huge worry for the game ... Would they have pulled out of a tour to India is the question ?? !! It’s so important in these times that the big 3 do everything they can to help out those without the financial clout ... #JustSaying — Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) February 3, 2021 × With the series between Australia and South Africa postponed, the ICC on Tuesday confirmed that New Zealand have now become the first team to qualify for the finals of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC). ALSO READ: Archer says 'body management' key in busy England calender As things stand, India, Australia and England are the other three teams in contention to make it to the final of World Test Championship, scheduled to be held from June 18-22. While Vaughan has expressed his disappointment over Cricket Australia's decision to postpone the tour, similar sentiments were shared by the cricket fans on social media platforms.

'Huge worry for the game': Michael Vaughan expresses concerns over SA vs AUS series postponement

After a recent dip in form, India's&nbsp;chinaman&nbsp;bowler Kuldeep Yadav has failed to start matches for India on a consistent basis with the likes of Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja taking the charge of the spin attack. Kuldeep, who was in the Indian squad&nbsp;in the recently concluded Test series against Australia, failed to bag a game in the longest format of the game. Kuldeep has now revealed what he learned from the like of Ashwin and Aussie spinner Nathan Lyon during India's recent&nbsp;tour of Australia.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The 26-year-old got the opportunity to pick the brains of Lyon and Ashwin – two of the best spinners in the world. Kuldeep opened up about his interactions with the spin duo&nbsp;as he said that while Lyon talked more about following simple drills, Ashwin was more technical and focused on what tweaks he can make in his bowling. Kuldeep, who is in strong contention to be back in the Indian Test XI against England, also revealed how Ashwin helped him laying out plans for England skipper Joe Root – who was in sensational form in their&nbsp;series against Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

"I did speak quite a lot to Nathan Lyon. I asked him about his routines. He told me he maintains simple drills, what his skills are, how he runs the fingers over the ball while spinning, which is his strength. He asked me to follow my routines, find the spot where I should be pitching and enjoy my bowling with a smile.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/winning-test-series-in-india-bigger-than-ashes-opines-matt-prior-361030" hreflang="en">Winning Test series in India 'bigger' than Ashes, opines Matt Prior</a>

"He (Ashwin) has given me quite a few ideas. He said at times I should quicken my rhythm, try bowling straighter, make slight tactical changes. He has a lot of knowledge not just about bowling but also game plans. During the Australia tour we spoke about plans for the England series - if Joe Root is batting, which fielders should be close, what areas to bowl. When he did not play in&nbsp;Brisbane&nbsp;I had good discussions with him," Kuldeep Yadav told&nbsp;ESPNcricinfo.&nbsp;

Kuldeep also said that he should have played more matches in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 and the&nbsp;chinaman&nbsp;bowler added that he was bowling well and was in a good&nbsp;rhythm.&nbsp;

"Personally&nbsp;I felt the 2020 IPL did not go well for me. I should have played more matches. I felt I was in pretty good rhythm, I was bowling well, but just that I did not get many overs. So, perhaps, if I got more opportunities then it would have been good. I am not saying that was the lowest, to be honest.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/archer-says-body-management-key-in-busy-england-calender-361017" hreflang="en">Archer says 'body management' key in busy England calender</a>

"Even in 2019, I did not have a good IPL. Until you fail, you can't handle the pressure. Now I feel I understand things better - I have seen failure in my life now, so even if I don't perform, it will not be new. In cricket, you can't perform at all times, but if you carry on doing the hard work, you create better chances to become successful," Kuldeep Yadav said.&nbsp;

Kuldeep last played Test for India in the year 2019 - against Australia in Sydney - where he ended up with five wickets.&nbsp;&nbsp;

After a recent dip in form, India's chinaman bowler Kuldeep Yadav has failed to start matches for India on a consistent basis with the likes of Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja taking the charge of the spin attack.

After a recent dip in form, India's chinaman bowler Kuldeep Yadav has failed to start matches for India on a consistent basis with the likes of Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja taking the charge of the spin attack. Kuldeep, who was in the Indian squad in the recently concluded Test series against Australia, failed to bag a game in the longest format of the game. Kuldeep has now revealed what he learned from the like of Ashwin and Aussie spinner Nathan Lyon during India's recent tour of Australia. The 26-year-old got the opportunity to pick the brains of Lyon and Ashwin – two of the best spinners in the world. Kuldeep opened up about his interactions with the spin duo as he said that while Lyon talked more about following simple drills, Ashwin was more technical and focused on what tweaks he can make in his bowling. Kuldeep, who is in strong contention to be back in the Indian Test XI against England, also revealed how Ashwin helped him laying out plans for England skipper Joe Root – who was in sensational form in their series against Sri Lanka. "I did speak quite a lot to Nathan Lyon. I asked him about his routines. He told me he maintains simple drills, what his skills are, how he runs the fingers over the ball while spinning, which is his strength. He asked me to follow my routines, find the spot where I should be pitching and enjoy my bowling with a smile. ALSO READ: Winning Test series in India 'bigger' than Ashes, opines Matt Prior "He (Ashwin) has given me quite a few ideas. He said at times I should quicken my rhythm, try bowling straighter, make slight tactical changes. He has a lot of knowledge not just about bowling but also game plans. During the Australia tour we spoke about plans for the England series - if Joe Root is batting, which fielders should be close, what areas to bowl. When he did not play in Brisbane I had good discussions with him," Kuldeep Yadav told ESPNcricinfo. Kuldeep also said that he should have played more matches in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 and the chinaman bowler added that he was bowling well and was in a good rhythm. "Personally I felt the 2020 IPL did not go well for me. I should have played more matches. I felt I was in pretty good rhythm, I was bowling well, but just that I did not get many overs. So, perhaps, if I got more opportunities then it would have been good. I am not saying that was the lowest, to be honest. ALSO READ: Archer says 'body management' key in busy England calender "Even in 2019, I did not have a good IPL. Until you fail, you can't handle the pressure. Now I feel I understand things better - I have seen failure in my life now, so even if I don't perform, it will not be new. In cricket, you can't perform at all times, but if you carry on doing the hard work, you create better chances to become successful," Kuldeep Yadav said. Kuldeep last played Test for India in the year 2019 - against Australia in Sydney - where he ended up with five wickets.

Kuldeep Yadav reveals lessons from Ashwin and Nathan Lyon

Former England wicket-keeper batsman Matt Prior has said that winning a Test series in India is a "bigger and tougher" task than winning the Ashes&nbsp;on Australian soil. The Ashes is arguably the greatest cricket rivalry – between England and Australia – but with India cementing their place as one of the&nbsp;greatest teams on home soil, there is a momentum shift in the cricketing world.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"It's certainly right up there. The Ashes gets all the publicity and everything that goes with it but India is an equally tough - if not tougher - place to go and win a series. It might even pip it for me: we won in Australia [in 2010-11] for the first time in 25 years but we won in India for the first time in 28,” Prior told&nbsp;ESPNCricinfo.&nbsp;

Prior has played a few Test matches against India and was part of the historic England squad that scripted history in 2012 by defeating India in the Test series&nbsp;– a feat achieved by the English team after a staggering 28 years.&nbsp;It remains India's last home Test series defeat.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Prior recalled playing Test matches on Indian soil as he said that getting a result in India is mentally and physically draining and being successful there is a "very proud moment" in his career.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/archer-says-body-management-key-in-busy-england-calender-361017" hreflang="en">Archer says 'body management' key in busy England calendar</a>

"I remember coming in, taking my kit off, and before I knew it, I was asleep. I was just so drained from the whole experience. That's why you do it, and that's what made it such a good victory (in 2012). It is so mentally and physically draining to get a result out there (in India). To go there and be successful is a real privilege [so] it was a very proud moment in all of our careers,” he added.&nbsp;

Prior, regarded as one of the finest English&nbsp;glovesman&nbsp;to have played the game, touched upon the technical challenges that come while playing in India. The 38-year-old said that on&nbsp;Indian conditions, batsmen, bowlers, wicket-keepers and even fielders have to change their game-pan in a bid to challenge the dominating Indian side.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/stance-taken-by-ca-is-regrettable-cricket-south-africa-reacts-to-australia-series-postponement-360897" hreflang="en">'Stance taken by CA is regrettable...': Cricket South Africa reacts to Australia series postponement</a>

"Playing Test cricket in India is about attrition. From a wicket-keeping perspective, in the first over of the day, with Jimmy Anderson bowling in the high-80s [mph/140kph], I was standing literally four yards back.&nbsp;

“For players who have grown up in England, you're used to the ball swinging and seaming, and leaving on length and in the channel, but your whole game-plan has to change, whether that's for batsmen, bowlers, wicketkeepers, or even fielders,” he explained.&nbsp;

India's four-Test series against England commences from February 5 and will be followed by five T20Is and three ODIs.&nbsp;

Former England wicket-keeper batsman Matt Prior has said that winning a Test series in India is a "bigger and tougher" task than winning the Ashes on Australian soil.

Former England wicket-keeper batsman Matt Prior has said that winning a Test series in India is a "bigger and tougher" task than winning the Ashes on Australian soil. The Ashes is arguably the greatest cricket rivalry – between England and Australia – but with India cementing their place as one of the greatest teams on home soil, there is a momentum shift in the cricketing world. "It's certainly right up there. The Ashes gets all the publicity and everything that goes with it but India is an equally tough - if not tougher - place to go and win a series. It might even pip it for me: we won in Australia [in 2010-11] for the first time in 25 years but we won in India for the first time in 28,” Prior told ESPNCricinfo. Prior has played a few Test matches against India and was part of the historic England squad that scripted history in 2012 by defeating India in the Test series – a feat achieved by the English team after a staggering 28 years. It remains India's last home Test series defeat. Prior recalled playing Test matches on Indian soil as he said that getting a result in India is mentally and physically draining and being successful there is a "very proud moment" in his career. ALSO READ: Archer says 'body management' key in busy England calendar "I remember coming in, taking my kit off, and before I knew it, I was asleep. I was just so drained from the whole experience. That's why you do it, and that's what made it such a good victory (in 2012). It is so mentally and physically draining to get a result out there (in India). To go there and be successful is a real privilege [so] it was a very proud moment in all of our careers,” he added. Prior, regarded as one of the finest English glovesman to have played the game, touched upon the technical challenges that come while playing in India. The 38-year-old said that on Indian conditions, batsmen, bowlers, wicket-keepers and even fielders have to change their game-pan in a bid to challenge the dominating Indian side. ALSO READ: 'Stance taken by CA is regrettable...': Cricket South Africa reacts to Australia series postponement "Playing Test cricket in India is about attrition. From a wicket-keeping perspective, in the first over of the day, with Jimmy Anderson bowling in the high-80s [mph/140kph], I was standing literally four yards back. “For players who have grown up in England, you're used to the ball swinging and seaming, and leaving on length and in the channel, but your whole game-plan has to change, whether that's for batsmen, bowlers, wicketkeepers, or even fielders,” he explained. India's four-Test series against England commences from February 5 and will be followed by five T20Is and three ODIs.

Winning Test series in India 'bigger' than Ashes, opines Matt Prior

Liverpool finally bolstered their defensive options by signing Schalke's Ozan Kabak and Preston's Ben Davies before the Premier League transfer window slammed shut on Monday.

Meanwhile Premier League champions' Japanese attacking midfielder Takumi Minamino left for Southampton on loan until the end of the season in one of the few moves between Premier League clubs on a quiet deadline day.

The January window is regarded as a sellers' market and often a time for stop-gap measures but Liverpool were forced to act.

The champions are missing all of their senior central defenders, with Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez and Joel Matip out of action.&nbsp;

Fabinho, who had impressed at centre-back after moving from his usual midfield position, recently joined the injured list while captain Jordan Henderson, who usually plays in midfield, has been forced to deputise at the back.

Japanese international Minamino departed Anfield for Southampton in a surprise move allowed to be completed after the window shut because the Saints had submitted the necessary paperwork in time.

"I am very pleased to welcome Takumi to our squad for the rest of this season," Southampton manager Ralph Hasenhuttl said in club statement issued two hours after the 2300 GMT deadline.

"He will help provide another good attacking option, and is importantly the right profile of player for us.&nbsp;

"This will give us some additional depth in our squad at an important time."

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp had been suggesting for several weeks that a replacement centre-back would be a major lift for his team.

Klopp got his wish at last as the Reds brought in two defenders in the final hours of the transfer window.

Kabak joined on loan until the end of the season, subject to international clearance.

The Premier League champions have paid an initial £1 million ($1.37 million) loan fee with the option to buy for £18 million at the end of the season.

The 20-year-old arrives after two years in the Bundesliga, where he played for Stuttgart before joining Schalke in July 2019.

He previously gained Champions League experience at Galatasaray and has won seven caps for Turkey.

Davies, 25, signed for an initial fee believed to be £500,000, plus future add-ons.

Klopp conceded signing a relatively unknown player from the second tier was a move forced by financial restraints of the pandemic and Liverpool's injury woes.

"It's probably clear that in a normal transfer window, without any issues, we would not look at Preston if there's a player for us," he said.

"But since we saw him and since our situation got clearer and clearer -– the problems we had –- when we saw him we got really excited about it and thought, 'Wow.' We see the quality and we see the potential."

Davies made 145 appearances for Preston, scoring two goals, since his debut in 2013.

<h2>- Low-spending window -</h2>

"Obviously it came as a bit of a surprise when it first came out but once you start to get your head around it, the opportunity that is in front of me is incredible," Davies said.

"I've never actually been to Anfield and I haven't had a look around yet."

Major moves involving "Big Six" Premier League clubs were few and far between in the January window.

Top-flight clubs, who splashed the cash in the summer transfer window, are reeling from the financial fallout as a result of the Covid-19 crisis and are coming to terms with new Brexit rules that make it tougher to recruit young players from Europe.

The last time less than £100 million was spent in the January transfer window was 2012.

Arsenal allowed Shkodran Mustafi to leave, with the German defender signing a short-term contract at Schalke.

Gedson Fernandes ended his disappointing spell at Tottenham, with the midfielder's loan from Benfica cancelled so he could join Galatasaray.

Relegation-threatened West Bromwich Albion signed Turkey midfielder Okay&nbsp;Yokuslu on loan from Celta Vigo until the end of the season.

West Brom also agreed a deal with Arsenal to take the versatile Ainsley Maitland-Niles on loan until the end of this term.

Ecuador international Moises Caicedo joined Brighton from Independiente del Valle for a fee of around £4 million.

Newcastle signed Arsenal midfielder Joe Willock on loan for the rest of the season, while Magpies' right-back DeAndre Yedlin joined Galatasaray in a permanent deal.

Fulham landed former Sunderland forward Josh Maja on loan from French side Bordeaux.

Everton were hoping to sign Bournemouth striker Josh King in a late deal.

Liverpool finally bolstered their defensive options by signing Schalke's Ozan Kabak and Preston's Ben Davies before the Premier League transfer window slammed shut on Monday.

Liverpool finally bolstered their defensive options by signing Schalke's Ozan Kabak and Preston's Ben Davies before the Premier League transfer window slammed shut on Monday. Meanwhile Premier League champions' Japanese attacking midfielder Takumi Minamino left for Southampton on loan until the end of the season in one of the few moves between Premier League clubs on a quiet deadline day. The January window is regarded as a sellers' market and often a time for stop-gap measures but Liverpool were forced to act. The champions are missing all of their senior central defenders, with Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez and Joel Matip out of action. Fabinho, who had impressed at centre-back after moving from his usual midfield position, recently joined the injured list while captain Jordan Henderson, who usually plays in midfield, has been forced to deputise at the back. Japanese international Minamino departed Anfield for Southampton in a surprise move allowed to be completed after the window shut because the Saints had submitted the necessary paperwork in time. "I am very pleased to welcome Takumi to our squad for the rest of this season," Southampton manager Ralph Hasenhuttl said in club statement issued two hours after the 2300 GMT deadline. "He will help provide another good attacking option, and is importantly the right profile of player for us. "This will give us some additional depth in our squad at an important time." Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp had been suggesting for several weeks that a replacement centre-back would be a major lift for his team. Klopp got his wish at last as the Reds brought in two defenders in the final hours of the transfer window. Kabak joined on loan until the end of the season, subject to international clearance. The Premier League champions have paid an initial £1 million ($1.37 million) loan fee with the option to buy for £18 million at the end of the season. The 20-year-old arrives after two years in the Bundesliga, where he played for Stuttgart before joining Schalke in July 2019. He previously gained Champions League experience at Galatasaray and has won seven caps for Turkey. Davies, 25, signed for an initial fee believed to be £500,000, plus future add-ons. Klopp conceded signing a relatively unknown player from the second tier was a move forced by financial restraints of the pandemic and Liverpool's injury woes. "It's probably clear that in a normal transfer window, without any issues, we would not look at Preston if there's a player for us," he said. "But since we saw him and since our situation got clearer and clearer -– the problems we had –- when we saw him we got really excited about it and thought, 'Wow.' We see the quality and we see the potential." Davies made 145 appearances for Preston, scoring two goals, since his debut in 2013. - Low-spending window - "Obviously it came as a bit of a surprise when it first came out but once you start to get your head around it, the opportunity that is in front of me is incredible," Davies said. "I've never actually been to Anfield and I haven't had a look around yet." Major moves involving "Big Six" Premier League clubs were few and far between in the January window. Top-flight clubs, who splashed the cash in the summer transfer window, are reeling from the financial fallout as a result of the Covid-19 crisis and are coming to terms with new Brexit rules that make it tougher to recruit young players from Europe. The last time less than £100 million was spent in the January transfer window was 2012. Arsenal allowed Shkodran Mustafi to leave, with the German defender signing a short-term contract at Schalke. Gedson Fernandes ended his disappointing spell at Tottenham, with the midfielder's loan from Benfica cancelled so he could join Galatasaray. Relegation-threatened West Bromwich Albion signed Turkey midfielder Okay Yokuslu on loan from Celta Vigo until the end of the season. West Brom also agreed a deal with Arsenal to take the versatile Ainsley Maitland-Niles on loan until the end of this term. Ecuador international Moises Caicedo joined Brighton from Independiente del Valle for a fee of around £4 million. Newcastle signed Arsenal midfielder Joe Willock on loan for the rest of the season, while Magpies' right-back DeAndre Yedlin joined Galatasaray in a permanent deal. Fulham landed former Sunderland forward Josh Maja on loan from French side Bordeaux. Everton were hoping to sign Bournemouth striker Josh King in a late deal.

Liverpool bolster defence, Minamino off to Saints as window shuts

The final countdown to the Super Bowl got off to a low-key start on Monday with a virtual opening night media event, as the spectre of Covid-19 hovered over the US sporting showpiece.

With just six days until the Tampa Bay Buccaneers attempt to dethrone the Kansas City Chiefs in the NFL's championship game, players from both sides were adjusting to a new normal as a week of media activities got under way.

The Super Bowl's "opening night" is usually played out in a crowded arena made up of fans and thousands of media against a backdrop of rock music and pyrotechnics as the teams are introduced.

Safety issues surrounding Covid-19 however made the traditional circus-like kick-off a non-starter this year, leaving the likes of Tom Brady and Patrick Mahomes to instead conduct press interviews via Zoom.

Buccaneers quarterback Brady, who is preparing for his 10th Super Bowl, would normally expect to find himself in the centre of a scrum of dozens of cameras and journalists.

Instead he addressed media in front of a lone camera at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers team facility.

"Crazy media day. I'm sitting here in an empty room," Brady remarked. "It's very different from the other nine experiences."

Chiefs counterpart Mahomes was similarly bemused by the contrast in surroundings, a year after being the centre of attention in Kansas City's Super Bowl victory over the San Francisco 49ers.

<h2>- 'Very different' -</h2>

"From last year to this year, very different," said Mahomes.

In another departure from tradition, when participating teams arrive in the host Super Bowl city several days ahead of the game, the Chiefs are remaining in Kansas City until the weekend, when they will decamp for Florida.

The Buccaneers and the 43-year-old Brady -- who will become the oldest player to play in a Super Bowl on Sunday when he chases his record seventh championship -- have the advantage of playing at home.

The Bucs won the right to become the first ever team to play a home Super Bowl after upsetting the Green Bay Packers in the NFC Championship game at Lambeau Field last month.

"It's all very unique," Brady said Monday. "I'm happy in my own bed, happy I'm eating good stuff at home, don't have to travel, pack my clothes and all the other crap. There's some real positives to take from it," he said.

The slimmed-down feel to this year's Super Bowl will be in evidence across the week, with fewer parties and smaller, ticketed fan events which will be staged outdoors and tightly controlled.

Some US corporate titans meanwhile have opted to skip the television advertising bonanza that accompanies the Super Bowl, with the likes of Budweiser and Coca-Cola deciding to remain on the sidelines.

"This commitment is an investment in a future where we can all get back together safely over a beer," Budweiser said in a statement.

<h2>- Capacity slashed -</h2>

Capacity for Sunday's game meanwhile has been slashed by around two thirds, with only 22,000 seats being filled.

Some 7,500 of those tickets have been given to vaccinated US healthcare workers, while only 14,500 tickets went on sale to the public via a lottery. A further 2,000 seats will be filled in VIP suites.

The United States continues to battle against Covid-19, which has infected 26.3 million Americans and left 443,000 dead.

While the NFL managed to complete its season with relatively few hitches, the threat of coronavirus lurked over Monday's media activities as the Chiefs confirmed that two players -- receiver Demarcus Robinson and center Daniel Kilgore -- have been placed on the Covid-19 reserve list.

Robinson and backup Kilgore were placed in isolation after coming into contact with someone who had tested positive and must now record five consecutive days of negative tests to avoid missing the Super Bowl.

"The problem is you're fighting the invisible man," Chiefs coach Andy Reid said. "It's germs, and they're hard to see. It just gets you when least expected, and we're seeing that in everything. It's an unfortunate thing."

The final countdown to the Super Bowl got off to a low-key start on Monday with a virtual opening night media event, as the spectre of Covid-19 hovered over the US sporting showpiece.

The final countdown to the Super Bowl got off to a low-key start on Monday with a virtual opening night media event, as the spectre of Covid-19 hovered over the US sporting showpiece. With just six days until the Tampa Bay Buccaneers attempt to dethrone the Kansas City Chiefs in the NFL's championship game, players from both sides were adjusting to a new normal as a week of media activities got under way. The Super Bowl's "opening night" is usually played out in a crowded arena made up of fans and thousands of media against a backdrop of rock music and pyrotechnics as the teams are introduced. Safety issues surrounding Covid-19 however made the traditional circus-like kick-off a non-starter this year, leaving the likes of Tom Brady and Patrick Mahomes to instead conduct press interviews via Zoom. Buccaneers quarterback Brady, who is preparing for his 10th Super Bowl, would normally expect to find himself in the centre of a scrum of dozens of cameras and journalists. Instead he addressed media in front of a lone camera at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers team facility. "Crazy media day. I'm sitting here in an empty room," Brady remarked. "It's very different from the other nine experiences." Chiefs counterpart Mahomes was similarly bemused by the contrast in surroundings, a year after being the centre of attention in Kansas City's Super Bowl victory over the San Francisco 49ers. - 'Very different' - "From last year to this year, very different," said Mahomes. In another departure from tradition, when participating teams arrive in the host Super Bowl city several days ahead of the game, the Chiefs are remaining in Kansas City until the weekend, when they will decamp for Florida. The Buccaneers and the 43-year-old Brady -- who will become the oldest player to play in a Super Bowl on Sunday when he chases his record seventh championship -- have the advantage of playing at home. The Bucs won the right to become the first ever team to play a home Super Bowl after upsetting the Green Bay Packers in the NFC Championship game at Lambeau Field last month. "It's all very unique," Brady said Monday. "I'm happy in my own bed, happy I'm eating good stuff at home, don't have to travel, pack my clothes and all the other crap. There's some real positives to take from it," he said. The slimmed-down feel to this year's Super Bowl will be in evidence across the week, with fewer parties and smaller, ticketed fan events which will be staged outdoors and tightly controlled. Some US corporate titans meanwhile have opted to skip the television advertising bonanza that accompanies the Super Bowl, with the likes of Budweiser and Coca-Cola deciding to remain on the sidelines. "This commitment is an investment in a future where we can all get back together safely over a beer," Budweiser said in a statement. - Capacity slashed - Capacity for Sunday's game meanwhile has been slashed by around two thirds, with only 22,000 seats being filled. Some 7,500 of those tickets have been given to vaccinated US healthcare workers, while only 14,500 tickets went on sale to the public via a lottery. A further 2,000 seats will be filled in VIP suites. The United States continues to battle against Covid-19, which has infected 26.3 million Americans and left 443,000 dead. While the NFL managed to complete its season with relatively few hitches, the threat of coronavirus lurked over Monday's media activities as the Chiefs confirmed that two players -- receiver Demarcus Robinson and center Daniel Kilgore -- have been placed on the Covid-19 reserve list. Robinson and backup Kilgore were placed in isolation after coming into contact with someone who had tested positive and must now record five consecutive days of negative tests to avoid missing the Super Bowl. "The problem is you're fighting the invisible man," Chiefs coach Andy Reid said. "It's germs, and they're hard to see. It just gets you when least expected, and we're seeing that in everything. It's an unfortunate thing."

Slimmed-down Super Bowl week kicks off as virus threat remains

Australian Open champion Novak Djokovic got his season off to a perfect start with a battling win over hot-shot Denis Shapovalov in the ATP Cup Tuesday, but world number three Dominic Thiem crashed to defeat.

The Serbian world number one, who will be chasing a ninth Australian Open crown when the first Grand Slam of the year begins on Monday, was pushed hard before coming through 7-5, 7-5 against the Canadian on Rod Laver Arena&nbsp;

Djokovic showed no signs of being hindered by a nasty blister on his racquet hand that troubled him at an Adelaide exhibition last week and returned 30 minutes later alongside Filip Frajinovic to play the decisive doubles rubber.

The pair beat Shapovalov and Milos Raonic 7-5, 7-6 (7/4)&nbsp;as defending champions Serbia took the tie against Canada 2-1 in Group A.

"It was a great opening of the season. Playing Shapo is always a great challenge on hardcourts, he is such a dynamic, explosive player," said Djokovic, who was fired up by playing in front of a smattering of noisy Serbian fans.

"I thought we both played on a pretty high level, so I'm really pleased with the way I started the season.

"This is a great competition," added Djokovic, who won all eight matches he contested en route to the trophy last year.&nbsp;

"We need more competitions where we represent a team, represent our country."&nbsp;

Serbia beat Rafael Nadal's Spain in the final of the inaugural and hugely popular tournament last year in Sydney -- launched as a rival to the Davis Cup.

It has been slimmed down from 24 teams to 12 this year due to the coronavirus with all matches at Melbourne Park over five days with US$7.5 million at stake, rather than the multi-city format employed in 2020.

Spain face a tough opening tie later Tuesday against hosts Australia, with Nadal up against fast-improving Alex de Minaur.

On a cool day, big-serving Raonic got Canada off to a blistering start, crushing Dusan Lajovic 6-3, 6-4 in just 79 minutes to give his team a 1-0 lead, with the former world number three, now ranked 15, dropping just eight points on serve while sending down 11 aces.

It was left to Djokovic to level the tie before clinching the doubles rubber.

The Alexander Zverev-led Germany are also in Group A and play Wednesday.

<h2>- Thiem tumbles -</h2>

While Djokovic tasted victory, US Open champion Thiem, who lost to the Serb in a gripping Australian Open final last year, got his season off to a disappointing start.

He slumped 6-2, 6-4 to Italian world number 10 Matteo Berrettini who never allowed the Austrian to get going with his big-swinging game.

"I'm very happy obviously for myself, but in this competition we're playing for a team, so it's really nice," Berrettini said. "I'm really happy with my performance.

"Playing for your country is something special."

Berrettini was under pressure after Austria took the lead in their Group C clash when 100th-ranked Dennis Novak earned one of the biggest wins of his career, upsetting world number 17 Fabio Fognini 6-3, 6-2.

It sent the tie to a deciding doubles with Thiem returning alongside Novak only to crash again, losing 6-1, 6-4 to Berrettini and Fognini.

Australian Open champion Novak Djokovic got his season off to a perfect start with a battling win over hot-shot Denis Shapovalov in the ATP Cup Tuesday, but world number three Dominic Thiem crashed to defeat.

Australian Open champion Novak Djokovic got his season off to a perfect start with a battling win over hot-shot Denis Shapovalov in the ATP Cup Tuesday, but world number three Dominic Thiem crashed to defeat. The Serbian world number one, who will be chasing a ninth Australian Open crown when the first Grand Slam of the year begins on Monday, was pushed hard before coming through 7-5, 7-5 against the Canadian on Rod Laver Arena Djokovic showed no signs of being hindered by a nasty blister on his racquet hand that troubled him at an Adelaide exhibition last week and returned 30 minutes later alongside Filip Frajinovic to play the decisive doubles rubber. The pair beat Shapovalov and Milos Raonic 7-5, 7-6 (7/4) as defending champions Serbia took the tie against Canada 2-1 in Group A. "It was a great opening of the season. Playing Shapo is always a great challenge on hardcourts, he is such a dynamic, explosive player," said Djokovic, who was fired up by playing in front of a smattering of noisy Serbian fans. "I thought we both played on a pretty high level, so I'm really pleased with the way I started the season. "This is a great competition," added Djokovic, who won all eight matches he contested en route to the trophy last year. "We need more competitions where we represent a team, represent our country." Serbia beat Rafael Nadal's Spain in the final of the inaugural and hugely popular tournament last year in Sydney -- launched as a rival to the Davis Cup. It has been slimmed down from 24 teams to 12 this year due to the coronavirus with all matches at Melbourne Park over five days with US$7.5 million at stake, rather than the multi-city format employed in 2020. Spain face a tough opening tie later Tuesday against hosts Australia, with Nadal up against fast-improving Alex de Minaur. On a cool day, big-serving Raonic got Canada off to a blistering start, crushing Dusan Lajovic 6-3, 6-4 in just 79 minutes to give his team a 1-0 lead, with the former world number three, now ranked 15, dropping just eight points on serve while sending down 11 aces. It was left to Djokovic to level the tie before clinching the doubles rubber. The Alexander Zverev-led Germany are also in Group A and play Wednesday. - Thiem tumbles - While Djokovic tasted victory, US Open champion Thiem, who lost to the Serb in a gripping Australian Open final last year, got his season off to a disappointing start. He slumped 6-2, 6-4 to Italian world number 10 Matteo Berrettini who never allowed the Austrian to get going with his big-swinging game. "I'm very happy obviously for myself, but in this competition we're playing for a team, so it's really nice," Berrettini said. "I'm really happy with my performance. "Playing for your country is something special." Berrettini was under pressure after Austria took the lead in their Group C clash when 100th-ranked Dennis Novak earned one of the biggest wins of his career, upsetting world number 17 Fabio Fognini 6-3, 6-2. It sent the tie to a deciding doubles with Thiem returning alongside Novak only to crash again, losing 6-1, 6-4 to Berrettini and Fognini.

Fired-up Djokovic makes perfect start but Thiem slumps in ATP Cup

Paralympics chief Andrew Parsons is confident the pandemic-delayed Tokyo Games will go ahead this year, and will be "a platform to change to world" -- with or without spectators.

As coronavirus infections surge globally, organisers have said the Games may have to be held behind closed doors or with fewer fans.

But International Paralympic Committee president Parsons told AFP that would be a price worth paying.

"The Paralympic Games are a platform to change the world," he said in an interview, just over 200 days before the opening ceremony on August 24.

"We do understand that the Games will not be the same without spectators, but the impact of the Games is very strong outside the host city and the host nation."

"The impact that the Paralympics have is not only in the two-point-something million people that attend the Games," he added. "We're talking about the four billion people around the world watching the Paralympic Games."

With less than six months to go until Tokyo 2020, there are growing questions about whether the event can be held safely.

But Parsons said he is "very positive" about the Games happening this year, and insisted there is "no scenario" where the Olympics will happen without the Paralympics.

He said everyone involved in organising the Games is "unanimous in the fact that this is not something that is going to happen, where we have the Olympics and not the Paralympics".

"We will have both. There is no scenario where the Olympics will go ahead and the Paralympics will not go ahead," he said.

<h2>- 'We need to protect people' -</h2>

Parsons acknowledged however that qualifying tournaments could be affected, and that some athletes may be left "unhappy".

Only 57 percent of athletes have secured their places in Tokyo so far, with qualification events set to resume in March at the earliest.

"We may have more people unhappy than in previous times," he said. "But again, there's not much we can do to change that. We need to protect people.

"We will not make people compete to get their qualification slot for Tokyo if this is going to put them at risk."

As vaccines roll out around the world, Parsons said they would not be required for participation in the Games, as is the case for Olympic athletes.

But he encouraged athletes to get the jab as "an extra layer of protection".

He said the IPC is working with the International Olympic Committee to make vaccines available to athletes, but warned there are "many issues" in reaching a fair solution.

"Anything that we do in that regard we need to do for all of our members, all of our athletes," he said.

"It can't be something that we do for X country or Z country. That's the challenge -- we need to be absolutely fair with all the different nations."

Some Paralympians may have increased vulnerability, but Parsons said the aim was "to give the best protection we can give to every single athlete" regardless of specific risk factors.

Organisers have already drafted extensive virus countermeasures, and Parsons said he believes the Games can be held safely, pointing to sports events that have been staged around the world during the pandemic.

Athletes are determined to take part, regardless of how many people are in the stands, he added.

"We want them to have the opportunity to compete,"&nbsp;he said.

"Yes, we would be losing some part of the experience, but in balancing things here, we are far more positive about having the Games -- even if it's without spectators or only Japanese -- than not having the Games at all."

Paralympics chief Andrew Parsons is confident the pandemic-delayed Tokyo Games will go ahead this year, and will be "a platform to change to world" -- with or without spectators.

Paralympics chief Andrew Parsons is confident the pandemic-delayed Tokyo Games will go ahead this year, and will be "a platform to change to world" -- with or without spectators. As coronavirus infections surge globally, organisers have said the Games may have to be held behind closed doors or with fewer fans. But International Paralympic Committee president Parsons told AFP that would be a price worth paying. "The Paralympic Games are a platform to change the world," he said in an interview, just over 200 days before the opening ceremony on August 24. "We do understand that the Games will not be the same without spectators, but the impact of the Games is very strong outside the host city and the host nation." "The impact that the Paralympics have is not only in the two-point-something million people that attend the Games," he added. "We're talking about the four billion people around the world watching the Paralympic Games." With less than six months to go until Tokyo 2020, there are growing questions about whether the event can be held safely. But Parsons said he is "very positive" about the Games happening this year, and insisted there is "no scenario" where the Olympics will happen without the Paralympics. He said everyone involved in organising the Games is "unanimous in the fact that this is not something that is going to happen, where we have the Olympics and not the Paralympics". "We will have both. There is no scenario where the Olympics will go ahead and the Paralympics will not go ahead," he said. - 'We need to protect people' - Parsons acknowledged however that qualifying tournaments could be affected, and that some athletes may be left "unhappy". Only 57 percent of athletes have secured their places in Tokyo so far, with qualification events set to resume in March at the earliest. "We may have more people unhappy than in previous times," he said. "But again, there's not much we can do to change that. We need to protect people. "We will not make people compete to get their qualification slot for Tokyo if this is going to put them at risk." As vaccines roll out around the world, Parsons said they would not be required for participation in the Games, as is the case for Olympic athletes. But he encouraged athletes to get the jab as "an extra layer of protection". He said the IPC is working with the International Olympic Committee to make vaccines available to athletes, but warned there are "many issues" in reaching a fair solution. "Anything that we do in that regard we need to do for all of our members, all of our athletes," he said. "It can't be something that we do for X country or Z country. That's the challenge -- we need to be absolutely fair with all the different nations." Some Paralympians may have increased vulnerability, but Parsons said the aim was "to give the best protection we can give to every single athlete" regardless of specific risk factors. Organisers have already drafted extensive virus countermeasures, and Parsons said he believes the Games can be held safely, pointing to sports events that have been staged around the world during the pandemic. Athletes are determined to take part, regardless of how many people are in the stands, he added. "We want them to have the opportunity to compete," he said. "Yes, we would be losing some part of the experience, but in balancing things here, we are far more positive about having the Games -- even if it's without spectators or only Japanese -- than not having the Games at all."

Fan-free Tokyo Paralympics can still have major impact, says IPC chief

New-look Pakistan will look to end a 17-year wait for a series win against South Africa and leapfrog the Proteas in the rankings in the second Test starting on Thursday.

Victory would be poignant for Pakistan, who are hosting their biggest Test series since the deadly 2009 militant attack on Sri Lanka's team halted international tours.

Pakistan, whose lone series win over South Africa was at home in 2003, start as favourites in Rawalpindi after last week's thumping seven-wicket win in Karachi.

They stand to rise two places to fifth in the rankings with a series victory, while defeat would push South Africa down from fifth to sixth.

Debutant Nauman Ali and fellow spinner Yasir Shah were the heroes in Karachi with seven wickets each, along with Fawad Alam whose first-innings century set up the win.

Babar Azam, who captained Pakistan for the first time, said the win was much needed after they went down heavily in both Tests away to New Zealand in December and January.

"This win was very necessary for our group," said Azam. "The last series in New Zealand didn't go very well.&nbsp;

"Yes, these are home conditions but South Africa is a top Test side and beating them was morale-boosting."

He added: "We have been telling the players to be confident. I don't want them to take pressure, learn from mistakes and do your best."

However, Rawalpindi will provide a different challenge for both teams as fast bowlers tend to dominate.

When Pakistan beat Bangladesh there by an innings and 44 runs, 12 months ago, 20 of the 30 wickets went to fast bowlers.

With that in mind, Pakistan are expected to drop Nauman, despite his wickets in Karachi, and give a Test debut to paceman Haris Rauf.

<h2>- 'Not the greatest' record -</h2>

South Africa have long struggled in the subcontinent, with Karachi their eighth defeat in a row in India, Sri Lanka and Pakistan.

They lost their last eight wickets for 112 and 60 in the two innings in Karachi, falling for 220 and 245 all out.

"I know that our record in the subcontinent is not the greatest," said captain Quinton de Kock.&nbsp;

"We have won a couple of series and I have part of some but now we want to find a way to alter that."

Experienced opener Dean Elgar is expected to be fit to play after being hit on the hand in Karachi.

The tourists are likely to drop spinner George Linde to bring in one of their fast-bowling all-rounders, Wiaan Mulder or Dwaine Pretorius.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Teams

Pakistan (from): Babar Azam (capt), Abid Ali, Imran Butt, Azhar Ali, Fawad Alam, Saud Shakeel, Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Rizwan, Sarfraz Ahmed, Nauman Ali, Sajid Khan, Yasir Shah, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Tabish Khan

South Africa (from): Quinton de Kock (capt), Temba Bavuma, Aiden Markram, Faf du Plessis, Dean Elgar, Kagiso Rabada, Dwaine Pretorius, Keshav Maharaj, Lungi Ngidi, Rassie van der Dussen, Anrich Nortje, Wiaan Mulder, Lutho Sipamla, Beuran Hendricks, Kyle Verreynne, Sarel Erwee, Keegan Petersen, Tabraiz Shamsi, George Linde, Daryn Dupavillon, Marco Jansen

New-look Pakistan will look to end a 17-year wait for a series win against South Africa and leapfrog the Proteas in the rankings in the second Test starting on Thursday.

New-look Pakistan will look to end a 17-year wait for a series win against South Africa and leapfrog the Proteas in the rankings in the second Test starting on Thursday. Victory would be poignant for Pakistan, who are hosting their biggest Test series since the deadly 2009 militant attack on Sri Lanka's team halted international tours. Pakistan, whose lone series win over South Africa was at home in 2003, start as favourites in Rawalpindi after last week's thumping seven-wicket win in Karachi. They stand to rise two places to fifth in the rankings with a series victory, while defeat would push South Africa down from fifth to sixth. Debutant Nauman Ali and fellow spinner Yasir Shah were the heroes in Karachi with seven wickets each, along with Fawad Alam whose first-innings century set up the win. Babar Azam, who captained Pakistan for the first time, said the win was much needed after they went down heavily in both Tests away to New Zealand in December and January. "This win was very necessary for our group," said Azam. "The last series in New Zealand didn't go very well. "Yes, these are home conditions but South Africa is a top Test side and beating them was morale-boosting." He added: "We have been telling the players to be confident. I don't want them to take pressure, learn from mistakes and do your best." However, Rawalpindi will provide a different challenge for both teams as fast bowlers tend to dominate. When Pakistan beat Bangladesh there by an innings and 44 runs, 12 months ago, 20 of the 30 wickets went to fast bowlers. With that in mind, Pakistan are expected to drop Nauman, despite his wickets in Karachi, and give a Test debut to paceman Haris Rauf. - 'Not the greatest' record - South Africa have long struggled in the subcontinent, with Karachi their eighth defeat in a row in India, Sri Lanka and Pakistan. They lost their last eight wickets for 112 and 60 in the two innings in Karachi, falling for 220 and 245 all out. "I know that our record in the subcontinent is not the greatest," said captain Quinton de Kock. "We have won a couple of series and I have part of some but now we want to find a way to alter that." Experienced opener Dean Elgar is expected to be fit to play after being hit on the hand in Karachi. The tourists are likely to drop spinner George Linde to bring in one of their fast-bowling all-rounders, Wiaan Mulder or Dwaine Pretorius. Teams Pakistan (from): Babar Azam (capt), Abid Ali, Imran Butt, Azhar Ali, Fawad Alam, Saud Shakeel, Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Rizwan, Sarfraz Ahmed, Nauman Ali, Sajid Khan, Yasir Shah, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Tabish Khan South Africa (from): Quinton de Kock (capt), Temba Bavuma, Aiden Markram, Faf du Plessis, Dean Elgar, Kagiso Rabada, Dwaine Pretorius, Keshav Maharaj, Lungi Ngidi, Rassie van der Dussen, Anrich Nortje, Wiaan Mulder, Lutho Sipamla, Beuran Hendricks, Kyle Verreynne, Sarel Erwee, Keegan Petersen, Tabraiz Shamsi, George Linde, Daryn Dupavillon, Marco Jansen

Pakistan eye first Test series win over South Africa in 17 years

An angry Andre Villas-Boas offered his resignation as coach of Marseille on Tuesday after revealing the Ligue 1 club signed midfielder Olivier Ntcham from Celtic against his wishes on transfer deadline day.

"I want nothing from OM, no money. I just want to leave," Villas-Boas said at a press conference on Tuesday.

Ntcham, a 24-year-old former France Under-21 international, joined on loan from Celtic until the end of the season just before the winter transfer window closed but Villas-Boas said he had not been in favour of the deal and knew nothing about it.

"The transfer window closed with the arrival of a new player on deadline day. It was not a decision that was taken by me. I had nothing to do with the decision," he said.

"I found out this morning when I woke up and looked at the press. I had specifically said no to that player and he was never on our list of targets.

"Because of that I have handed in my resignation to the board."

Villas-Boas, the former Porto, Chelsea and Tottenham manager, had already said last week that he expected to leave when his contract expires at the end of this season, with Marseille on a run of just one win in nine games in all competitions.

Three straight league defeats have seen last season's Ligue 1 runners-up slip to ninth in the table before they face Lens on Wednesday.

Their scheduled match at home to Rennes on Saturday was postponed after several hundred angry fans stormed the club's training ground in a violent protest, leading to 25 arrests.&nbsp;

An angry Andre Villas-Boas offered his resignation as coach of Marseille on Tuesday after revealing the Ligue 1 club signed midfielder Olivier Ntcham from Celtic against his wishes on transfer deadline day.

An angry Andre Villas-Boas offered his resignation as coach of Marseille on Tuesday after revealing the Ligue 1 club signed midfielder Olivier Ntcham from Celtic against his wishes on transfer deadline day. "I want nothing from OM, no money. I just want to leave," Villas-Boas said at a press conference on Tuesday. Ntcham, a 24-year-old former France Under-21 international, joined on loan from Celtic until the end of the season just before the winter transfer window closed but Villas-Boas said he had not been in favour of the deal and knew nothing about it. "The transfer window closed with the arrival of a new player on deadline day. It was not a decision that was taken by me. I had nothing to do with the decision," he said. "I found out this morning when I woke up and looked at the press. I had specifically said no to that player and he was never on our list of targets. "Because of that I have handed in my resignation to the board." Villas-Boas, the former Porto, Chelsea and Tottenham manager, had already said last week that he expected to leave when his contract expires at the end of this season, with Marseille on a run of just one win in nine games in all competitions. Three straight league defeats have seen last season's Ligue 1 runners-up slip to ninth in the table before they face Lens on Wednesday. Their scheduled match at home to Rennes on Saturday was postponed after several hundred angry fans stormed the club's training ground in a violent protest, leading to 25 arrests.

Villas-Boas offers to resign as Marseille coach in transfer row

RB Leipzig said Tuesday that they have asked the German authorities to grant Champions League opponents Liverpool an exemption to strict new German coronavirus entry rules.

"On Monday, we requested an exemption for Liverpool's entry into the country," said Leipzig spokesman Till Mueller.&nbsp;

The Bundesliga club are set to host English champions Liverpool in a Champions League last-16 game on February 16, but the match has been thrown into doubt by a partial travel ban which Germany introduced last weekend.&nbsp;

The new rules, slated to last until the day after the game, ban travellers from countries hit by new, more contagious coronavirus variants such as Britain.

Though there are some exceptions for medical workers and others in key professions, an interior ministry spokesperson told AFP on Monday that the new rules contained "no special provision for professional sportspeople".

Yet Mueller said Leipzig were working on a solution to the problem.

"We are of course in discussions with the authorities, with Liverpool and with UEFA," he said, adding that the club had filed an exemption request with the federal police.&nbsp;

"We hope that we receive a quick response because a lot depends on this," he added.

According to German media reports, UEFA's regulations decree that Leipzig must find a way of hosting the match or risk forfeiting it as a 3-0 defeat.

Potential solutions include playing the game at a neutral ground outside of Germany, or switching the home and away legs of the tie.

Yet Leipzig club bosses insisted that they were optimistic that the game would go ahead as planned.

"It is not our aim to play the game in St. Petersburg or elsewhere," club director Oliver Mintzlaff told Bild.&nbsp;

Commercial director Florian Scholz added that the club were "working on the assumption that Liverpool can enter the country".&nbsp;

RB Leipzig said Tuesday that they have asked the German authorities to grant Champions League opponents Liverpool an exemption to strict new German coronavirus entry rules.

RB Leipzig said Tuesday that they have asked the German authorities to grant Champions League opponents Liverpool an exemption to strict new German coronavirus entry rules. "On Monday, we requested an exemption for Liverpool's entry into the country," said Leipzig spokesman Till Mueller. The Bundesliga club are set to host English champions Liverpool in a Champions League last-16 game on February 16, but the match has been thrown into doubt by a partial travel ban which Germany introduced last weekend. The new rules, slated to last until the day after the game, ban travellers from countries hit by new, more contagious coronavirus variants such as Britain. Though there are some exceptions for medical workers and others in key professions, an interior ministry spokesperson told AFP on Monday that the new rules contained "no special provision for professional sportspeople". Yet Mueller said Leipzig were working on a solution to the problem. "We are of course in discussions with the authorities, with Liverpool and with UEFA," he said, adding that the club had filed an exemption request with the federal police. "We hope that we receive a quick response because a lot depends on this," he added. According to German media reports, UEFA's regulations decree that Leipzig must find a way of hosting the match or risk forfeiting it as a 3-0 defeat. Potential solutions include playing the game at a neutral ground outside of Germany, or switching the home and away legs of the tie. Yet Leipzig club bosses insisted that they were optimistic that the game would go ahead as planned. "It is not our aim to play the game in St. Petersburg or elsewhere," club director Oliver Mintzlaff told Bild. Commercial director Florian Scholz added that the club were "working on the assumption that Liverpool can enter the country".

Leipzig seek Liverpool travel exemption for Champions League tie

The postponement of the Test series between South Africa and Australia means New Zealand have become the first team to qualify for the inaugural ICC World Test Championship final to be held in England from June 18 to 22, with June 23 booked as the reserve day.&nbsp;&nbsp;

New Zealand are currently ranked second on the ICC WTC table with a points percentage of 70 per cent, which has secured them a place in the final. They will be joined by either India, England, or Australia with the second spot being determined by the outcome of the India v England four-match Test series due to start on Friday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-world-test-championship-final-qualification-scenario-for-each-team-360861" hreflang="en">ICC World Test Championship final: Qualification scenario for each team</a>

To book their place, India will have to win the series against England by 2-1, 2-0, 3-1, 3-0 or 4-0, margin. For England to qualify and join New Zealand, they will have to win the series against India by 3-1, 3-0 or 4-0 margin. Australia can still qualify for the much-anticipated ICC WTC final if the series between India and England ends up as a drawn series, or if India win the series 1-0 or England win it by 1-0, 2-1 or a 2-1 margin.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, Cricket Australia announced that their tour of South Africa has been postponed amid fears of COVID-19. The postponement also cuts down chances of Australia qualifying to the final of ICC World Test Championship.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-vs-south-africa-test-series-postponed-over-covid-19-threat-360853" hreflang="en">Australia vs South Africa Test series postponed over COVID-19 threat</a>

The likes of Pakistan, South Africa among other Test playing nations barring India, England and Australia are also mathematically out of contention of the ICC WTC final.

The postponement of the Test series between South Africa and Australia means New Zealand have become the first team to qualify for the inaugural ICC World Test Championship final to be held in England from June 18 to 22, with June 23 booked as the reserve day.

The postponement of the Test series between South Africa and Australia means New Zealand have become the first team to qualify for the inaugural ICC World Test Championship final to be held in England from June 18 to 22, with June 23 booked as the reserve day. New Zealand are currently ranked second on the ICC WTC table with a points percentage of 70 per cent, which has secured them a place in the final. They will be joined by either India, England, or Australia with the second spot being determined by the outcome of the India v England four-match Test series due to start on Friday. ALSO READ: ICC World Test Championship final: Qualification scenario for each team To book their place, India will have to win the series against England by 2-1, 2-0, 3-1, 3-0 or 4-0, margin. For England to qualify and join New Zealand, they will have to win the series against India by 3-1, 3-0 or 4-0 margin. Australia can still qualify for the much-anticipated ICC WTC final if the series between India and England ends up as a drawn series, or if India win the series 1-0 or England win it by 1-0, 2-1 or a 2-1 margin. On Tuesday, Cricket Australia announced that their tour of South Africa has been postponed amid fears of COVID-19. The postponement also cuts down chances of Australia qualifying to the final of ICC World Test Championship. ALSO READ: Australia vs South Africa Test series postponed over COVID-19 threat The likes of Pakistan, South Africa among other Test playing nations barring India, England and Australia are also mathematically out of contention of the ICC WTC final.

New Zealand first team to qualify for ICC World Test Championship final

Cricket South Africa (CSA) on Tuesday expressed their disappointment over the postponement of home series against Australia as the cricket board said that Cricket Australia's decision to call off the series&nbsp;CA "is regrettable and will have a serious impact on the sustainability of the less wealthy cricket playing nations.”&nbsp;

Earlier on Tuesday, Cricket Australia announced that their tour of South Africa was postponement amid fears of the second wave and new&nbsp;variant of the coronavirus. While Cricket Australia also expressed their disappointment over the postponement of the much-awaited series in the Rainbow nation, Cricket South Africa's statement clearly shows that the latter has been left disappointed.&nbsp;

Cricket South Africa, in their statement, further revealed that they had invested a significant sum to ensure there is proper planning ahead of the tour while also taking necessary permission from the South African government to provide a safe environment to the Australian contingent.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The board added the now-postponed tour "represents a serious financial loss".&nbsp;

Notably, South Africa recently hosted Sri Lanka and even Pakistan's women team are currently touring the Rainbow nation. South Africa&nbsp;are also continuing with&nbsp;their domestic 'Momentum One-Day Cup'.&nbsp;

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{871bed4f-9824-491b-aa62-1be2c3512719}{81}" paraid="1262339483" >Cricket South Africa's full statement over postponed Australia series:&nbsp;</h2>

Cricket South Africa (CSA) was on Tuesday informed by Cricket Australia (CA) that their tour to the country scheduled to begin later this month will not be going ahead due to Covid-19 fears.&nbsp;

CSA wishes to record its immense disappointment at the news. The safety of players is always paramount and over the past few months, CSA held many detailed discussions with CA regarding Covid-19 protocols. These discussions included assessing and managing the Covid-19 risks and consulting with a range of leading medical experts including the SA Ministerial COVID Advisory Committee. CSA worked hard to meet the changing demands of our Australian counterparts.&nbsp;

CSA is particularly disappointed given that South Africa recently hosted Sri Lanka in a bio-secure environment (BSE) at Centurion, with no breaches of protocol. Currently the Pakistan Women’s team are touring the country in a secure BSE in Durban.&nbsp;

Apart from those two successful BSEs, CSA has continued its domestic Momentum One-Day Cup in a BSE in Potchefstroom and no positive cases have been reported. In addition, it must be noted that President Ramaphosa announced an easing of lockdown restrictions last night in response to the 75% reduction in new Covid-19 infections since the peak of the second wave in December 2020.&nbsp;

“We are extremely disappointed by the decision of CA,” Director of Cricket, Graeme Smith, stated. “CSA has been working tirelessly in recent weeks to ensure that we meet every single expectation of CA.&nbsp;

“This was set to be the longest tour in a BSE comprising a three-match Test series that was scheduled to begin with Australia’s arrival later in the month.&nbsp;So&nbsp;to be informed about the CA decision at the eleventh hour is frustrating.”&nbsp;

CSA’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr Shuaib Manjra, added that there was not much more CSA could have done to appease CA and prepare more appropriately.&nbsp;

“The protocols we had proposed to CA were unprecedented,” he stated. “Firstly, we had agreed that our own Proteas team would enter the BSE 14 days prior to the arrival of the Australian team, thus altering their planning during the current tour of Pakistan.&nbsp;

“Amongst some of the other key arrangements made were that all four areas (two hotels and two venues) had a protocol to implement a strict BSE with no contact with anybody outside this area.&nbsp;

“We subsequently agreed to two separate BSEs and had granted Australia full and exclusive use of the Irene Country Lodge, which we shared with Sri Lanka, with a minimum staff present on site.&nbsp;

“In terms of the arrangements, the Proteas were to move to a separate hotel altogether. Furthermore, all hotel staff, match officials and even bus drivers were to enter the BSE 14 days prior to Australia’s arrival.&nbsp;

“In addition, CSA had also committed to importing an Australian tracking system at great cost to ensure proper tracking of close contacts in the event of a positive test. The touring team was also going to be granted VIP access through the airports, after government intervention to ensure this privilege.&nbsp;

“These are just some of the protocols that CSA was to put in place. We had really gone the extra mile to make sure that the tour would proceed.”&nbsp;

Pholetsi&nbsp;Moseki, CSA Acting Chief Executive Officer said, “It is indeed sad that after all the engagements and effort made to ensure a secure visit by our Australian counterparts, the tour has been derailed. CSA has incurred significant costs related to the planning stages and the cancellation of the tour represents a serious financial loss.&nbsp;

“In this challenging period for cricket and its member countries, we believe the stance taken by CA is regrettable and will have a serious impact on the sustainability of the less wealthy cricket playing nations.”&nbsp;

Cricket South Africa (CSA) on Tuesday expressed their disappointment over the postponement of home series against Australia as the cricket board said that Cricket Australia's decision to call off the series CA "is regrettable and will have a serious impact on the sustainability of the less wealthy cricket playing nations.

Cricket South Africa (CSA) on Tuesday expressed their disappointment over the postponement of home series against Australia as the cricket board said that Cricket Australia's decision to call off the series CA "is regrettable and will have a serious impact on the sustainability of the less wealthy cricket playing nations.” Earlier on Tuesday, Cricket Australia announced that their tour of South Africa was postponement amid fears of the second wave and new variant of the coronavirus. While Cricket Australia also expressed their disappointment over the postponement of the much-awaited series in the Rainbow nation, Cricket South Africa's statement clearly shows that the latter has been left disappointed. Cricket South Africa, in their statement, further revealed that they had invested a significant sum to ensure there is proper planning ahead of the tour while also taking necessary permission from the South African government to provide a safe environment to the Australian contingent. The board added the now-postponed tour "represents a serious financial loss". Notably, South Africa recently hosted Sri Lanka and even Pakistan's women team are currently touring the Rainbow nation. South Africa are also continuing with their domestic 'Momentum One-Day Cup'. Cricket South Africa's full statement over postponed Australia series: Cricket South Africa (CSA) was on Tuesday informed by Cricket Australia (CA) that their tour to the country scheduled to begin later this month will not be going ahead due to Covid-19 fears. CSA wishes to record its immense disappointment at the news. The safety of players is always paramount and over the past few months, CSA held many detailed discussions with CA regarding Covid-19 protocols. These discussions included assessing and managing the Covid-19 risks and consulting with a range of leading medical experts including the SA Ministerial COVID Advisory Committee. CSA worked hard to meet the changing demands of our Australian counterparts. CSA is particularly disappointed given that South Africa recently hosted Sri Lanka in a bio-secure environment (BSE) at Centurion, with no breaches of protocol. Currently the Pakistan Women’s team are touring the country in a secure BSE in Durban. Apart from those two successful BSEs, CSA has continued its domestic Momentum One-Day Cup in a BSE in Potchefstroom and no positive cases have been reported. In addition, it must be noted that President Ramaphosa announced an easing of lockdown restrictions last night in response to the 75% reduction in new Covid-19 infections since the peak of the second wave in December 2020. “We are extremely disappointed by the decision of CA,” Director of Cricket, Graeme Smith, stated. “CSA has been working tirelessly in recent weeks to ensure that we meet every single expectation of CA. “This was set to be the longest tour in a BSE comprising a three-match Test series that was scheduled to begin with Australia’s arrival later in the month. So to be informed about the CA decision at the eleventh hour is frustrating.” CSA’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr Shuaib Manjra, added that there was not much more CSA could have done to appease CA and prepare more appropriately. “The protocols we had proposed to CA were unprecedented,” he stated. “Firstly, we had agreed that our own Proteas team would enter the BSE 14 days prior to the arrival of the Australian team, thus altering their planning during the current tour of Pakistan. “Amongst some of the other key arrangements made were that all four areas (two hotels and two venues) had a protocol to implement a strict BSE with no contact with anybody outside this area. “We subsequently agreed to two separate BSEs and had granted Australia full and exclusive use of the Irene Country Lodge, which we shared with Sri Lanka, with a minimum staff present on site. “In terms of the arrangements, the Proteas were to move to a separate hotel altogether. Furthermore, all hotel staff, match officials and even bus drivers were to enter the BSE 14 days prior to Australia’s arrival. “In addition, CSA had also committed to importing an Australian tracking system at great cost to ensure proper tracking of close contacts in the event of a positive test. The touring team was also going to be granted VIP access through the airports, after government intervention to ensure this privilege. “These are just some of the protocols that CSA was to put in place. We had really gone the extra mile to make sure that the tour would proceed.” Pholetsi Moseki, CSA Acting Chief Executive Officer said, “It is indeed sad that after all the engagements and effort made to ensure a secure visit by our Australian counterparts, the tour has been derailed. CSA has incurred significant costs related to the planning stages and the cancellation of the tour represents a serious financial loss. “In this challenging period for cricket and its member countries, we believe the stance taken by CA is regrettable and will have a serious impact on the sustainability of the less wealthy cricket playing nations.”

'Stance taken by CA is regrettable...': Cricket South Africa reacts to Australia series postponement

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez, 73, has tested positive for Covid-19, the club announced on Tuesday.

The reigning Spanish champions said in a statement Perez "is not presenting any symptoms".&nbsp;

Perez's positive test comes after Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane also tested positive last month.

Zidane was asymptomatic and returned to Madrid's training ground on Tuesday morning following his period of isolation.

Perez is in his second term as Real Madrid president, which began in 2009. He was also in charge of the club between 2000 and 2006.

The club statement read: "Real Madrid confirms that our president Florentino Perez has given a positive result in the COVID-19 tests to which he is subjected periodically, although he is not presenting any symptoms."

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez, 73, has tested positive for Covid-19, the club announced on Tuesday. The reigning Spanish champions said in a statement Perez "is not presenting any symptoms".

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez, 73, has tested positive for Covid-19, the club announced on Tuesday. The reigning Spanish champions said in a statement Perez "is not presenting any symptoms". Perez's positive test comes after Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane also tested positive last month. Zidane was asymptomatic and returned to Madrid's training ground on Tuesday morning following his period of isolation. Perez is in his second term as Real Madrid president, which began in 2009. He was also in charge of the club between 2000 and 2006. The club statement read: "Real Madrid confirms that our president Florentino Perez has given a positive result in the COVID-19 tests to which he is subjected periodically, although he is not presenting any symptoms."

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez tests positive for Covid

The Indian cricket team scripted history by defeating Australia 2-1 in the recently-concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy to complete back-to-back Test series win on Australian soil. While fans are still celebrating the historic win by the Indian team, former Indian cricketer VVS Laxman has revealed that the series win by Team India made him emotional as he shed tears while watching Rishabh Pant and Washington Sundar bat.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India started the tour on a torrid note and lost the Adelaide Test. However, the visitors bounced back in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane to win the series 2-1 despite missing several of their key stars due to&nbsp;unavailability&nbsp;or injuries.&nbsp;

Laxman recalled the iconic Test series win as the batting legend said that he became "very emotional" while watching the last day of the Gabba Test.&nbsp;

"There is no doubt about it. In fact, I became very emotional. I was watching the last day and following it along with my family. When Rishabh and Washington were batting, I got very tense myself because when you’re not playing the game, you’re not in control," Laxman told Sports Today in an exclusive chat.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-world-test-championship-final-qualification-scenario-for-each-team-360861" hreflang="en">ICC World Test Championship final: Qualification scenario for each team</a>

"I just wanted India to beat Australia and win the series, especially after what has happened in Adelaide and what had happened before the Gabba Test match where everyone was talking about Indians are scared of going to Brisbane where Australia hadn’t lost in a long time," he added.&nbsp;

Laxman further revealed that it was the second time he shed tears while watching cricket with the first instance being India's ICC World Cup 2011&nbsp;triumph.&nbsp;

"Twice I cried, once in 2011 when India lifted the World Cup because I always wanted to be part of a World Cup-winning team and I played alongside this group of players who were so close to me and they went on to&nbsp;realise&nbsp;their dream of winning the World Cup," Laxman said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/crowd-allowed-at-50-per-cent-capacity-for-india-vs-england-2nd-test-360809" hreflang="en">Crowd allowed at 50 per cent capacity for India vs England 2nd Test</a>

"And I always wanted to beat Australia in Australia, I was not able to do that as a cricketer. I was so proud that this young Indian did that. Tears came down my eyes. Words cannot express what a wonderful, inspirational achievement not only for cricket but for the entire country," the former India batsman added.&nbsp;

India's next&nbsp;assignment&nbsp;will be a full-fledged home series against England where both the sides will play three Tests, five T20Is and three ODIs, starting from February 5.&nbsp;

The Indian cricket team scripted history by defeating Australia 2-1 in the recently-concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy to complete back-to-back Test series win on Australian soil.

The Indian cricket team scripted history by defeating Australia 2-1 in the recently-concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy to complete back-to-back Test series win on Australian soil. While fans are still celebrating the historic win by the Indian team, former Indian cricketer VVS Laxman has revealed that the series win by Team India made him emotional as he shed tears while watching Rishabh Pant and Washington Sundar bat. India started the tour on a torrid note and lost the Adelaide Test. However, the visitors bounced back in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane to win the series 2-1 despite missing several of their key stars due to unavailability or injuries. Laxman recalled the iconic Test series win as the batting legend said that he became "very emotional" while watching the last day of the Gabba Test. "There is no doubt about it. In fact, I became very emotional. I was watching the last day and following it along with my family. When Rishabh and Washington were batting, I got very tense myself because when you’re not playing the game, you’re not in control," Laxman told Sports Today in an exclusive chat. ALSO READ: ICC World Test Championship final: Qualification scenario for each team "I just wanted India to beat Australia and win the series, especially after what has happened in Adelaide and what had happened before the Gabba Test match where everyone was talking about Indians are scared of going to Brisbane where Australia hadn’t lost in a long time," he added. Laxman further revealed that it was the second time he shed tears while watching cricket with the first instance being India's ICC World Cup 2011 triumph. "Twice I cried, once in 2011 when India lifted the World Cup because I always wanted to be part of a World Cup-winning team and I played alongside this group of players who were so close to me and they went on to realise their dream of winning the World Cup," Laxman said. ALSO READ: Crowd allowed at 50 per cent capacity for India vs England 2nd Test "And I always wanted to beat Australia in Australia, I was not able to do that as a cricketer. I was so proud that this young Indian did that. Tears came down my eyes. Words cannot express what a wonderful, inspirational achievement not only for cricket but for the entire country," the former India batsman added. India's next assignment will be a full-fledged home series against England where both the sides will play three Tests, five T20Is and three ODIs, starting from February 5.

'Twice I cried...': VVS Laxman reveals emotional ride during India vs Australia Test series

Australia's tour of South Africa has been officially called off on Tuesday with the Tim Paine-led outfit likely to miss the ICC World Test Championship final spot following their 2-1 series defeat against India.&nbsp;

The Aussies further faced points deduction for slow over-rate during Boxing Day Test, which has now come to bite back Australia. Cricket Australia has received medical advice that the team should not tour the Rainbow nation. And on Tuesday, it was confirmed that the three-Test series, due to start on March 3,&nbsp;has been called off.&nbsp;

South Africa is being hit&nbsp;severely&nbsp;by a mutant strain of the coronavirus with the country positivity rate with its testing standing at a staggering 10 per cent.&nbsp;Hence, Cricket Australia decided not to compromise on the safety and well-being of the players and staff.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-world-test-championship-final-qualification-scenario-for-each-team-360861" hreflang="en">ICC World Test Championship final: Qualification scenario for each team</a>

Now, India&nbsp;need&nbsp;to win two Tests and draw one of the other two Tests against England to eliminate Australia.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Today we informed Cricket South Africa that we believe we have no choice but to postpone the forthcoming Qantas Tour of South Africa due to the coronavirus pandemic. Full statement 👇 <a href="https://t.co/mYjqNpkYjp">pic.twitter.com/mYjqNpkYjp</a>
— Cricket Australia (@CricketAus) <a href="https://twitter.com/CricketAus/status/1356538583071420417?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/crowd-allowed-at-50-per-cent-capacity-for-india-vs-england-2nd-test-360809" hreflang="en">Crowd allowed at 50 per cent capacity for India vs England 2nd Test</a>

<h2>Cricket Australia statement:&nbsp;</h2>

“Due to the public health situation in South Africa, which includes a second wave and new variant of the virus, and following extensive due diligence with medical experts, it has become clear that travelling from Australia to South Africa at this current time poses an unacceptable level of health and safety risk to our players, support staff and the community,” said Hockley.&nbsp;

“We acknowledge the significant amount of work by CSA in planning for the tour, during which we made it clear that CA was prepared to take on additional cost and effort to make the series happen.&nbsp;

“This decision has not been made lightly and we are extremely disappointed, especially given the importance of continuing international cricket at this time, our valued relationship with CSA, and our aspirations to compete in the inaugural ICC World Test Championship.&nbsp;

“However, we have been consistent since the start of the pandemic that the health and safety of our people is always our number one priority and unfortunately despite best efforts to agree a biosecurity plan, the risks are simply too great at this time.&nbsp;

“As difficult and disappointing a decision as this is, especially for Justin, Tim and the team, we have a duty of care to our people and their health and safety can’t be compromised.&nbsp;

“We look forward to playing the series against CSA at a date to be confirmed in due course and we send CSA and the people of South Africa our very best wishes for a successful rollout of the COVID-19 vaccine and a return to normality soon.”&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Australia's tour of South Africa has been officially called off on Tuesday with the Tim Paine-led outfit likely to miss the ICC World Test Championship final spot following their 2-1 series defeat against India.

Australia's tour of South Africa has been officially called off on Tuesday with the Tim Paine-led outfit likely to miss the ICC World Test Championship final spot following their 2-1 series defeat against India. The Aussies further faced points deduction for slow over-rate during Boxing Day Test, which has now come to bite back Australia. Cricket Australia has received medical advice that the team should not tour the Rainbow nation. And on Tuesday, it was confirmed that the three-Test series, due to start on March 3, has been called off. South Africa is being hit severely by a mutant strain of the coronavirus with the country positivity rate with its testing standing at a staggering 10 per cent. Hence, Cricket Australia decided not to compromise on the safety and well-being of the players and staff. ALSO READ: ICC World Test Championship final: Qualification scenario for each team Now, India need to win two Tests and draw one of the other two Tests against England to eliminate Australia. Today we informed Cricket South Africa that we believe we have no choice but to postpone the forthcoming Qantas Tour of South Africa due to the coronavirus pandemic. Full statement 👇 pic.twitter.com/mYjqNpkYjp — Cricket Australia (@CricketAus) February 2, 2021 × ALSO READ: Crowd allowed at 50 per cent capacity for India vs England 2nd Test Cricket Australia statement: “Due to the public health situation in South Africa, which includes a second wave and new variant of the virus, and following extensive due diligence with medical experts, it has become clear that travelling from Australia to South Africa at this current time poses an unacceptable level of health and safety risk to our players, support staff and the community,” said Hockley. “We acknowledge the significant amount of work by CSA in planning for the tour, during which we made it clear that CA was prepared to take on additional cost and effort to make the series happen. “This decision has not been made lightly and we are extremely disappointed, especially given the importance of continuing international cricket at this time, our valued relationship with CSA, and our aspirations to compete in the inaugural ICC World Test Championship. “However, we have been consistent since the start of the pandemic that the health and safety of our people is always our number one priority and unfortunately despite best efforts to agree a biosecurity plan, the risks are simply too great at this time. “As difficult and disappointing a decision as this is, especially for Justin, Tim and the team, we have a duty of care to our people and their health and safety can’t be compromised. “We look forward to playing the series against CSA at a date to be confirmed in due course and we send CSA and the people of South Africa our very best wishes for a successful rollout of the COVID-19 vaccine and a return to normality soon.”

Australia vs South Africa Test series postponed over COVID-19 threat

The latest postponement of the Test series between Australia and South Africa have shaken up the ICC World Test Championship scenario. While&nbsp;India and New Zealand are the first and second teams in the ICC WTC standings, Australia had a chance to qualify for the summit clash had their tour of South Africa gone ahead. However, now Australia's chances stand slim given India's impeccable record at home, where they will host England for a four-Test series starting from February 5.&nbsp;

While England can still qualify for the ICC World Test Championship final, New Zealand are all set to feature in the grand finale of the inaugural edition of the competition, reported to be played at the Lord's from June 18-22.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Pakistan and South Africa are already out of the ICC WTC final race.

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{642d846a-2411-432e-8dde-9c375837a222}{72}" paraid="1814531257" >Australia can still qualify for ICC World Test Championship final</h2>

Australia can also qualify for the ICC World Test Championship final if the series between India and England ends up as a draw, India win the series 1-0 or England win it by 2-0, 2-1 margin.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-vs-south-africa-test-series-postponed-over-covid-19-threat-360853" hreflang="en">Australia vs South Africa Test series postponed over COVID-19 threat</a>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{855b7ad7-81e4-40d2-8210-c74dbda3d94d}{226}" paraid="232368081" >What England need to do in order to qualify for ICC WTC?</h2>

For England to qualify, they have to win the series against India by 3-0, 3-1 or 4-0. But given India's great record at home, the odds are firmly stacked against the Joe Root-led outfit.&nbsp;

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{90e445b7-be75-48ac-84e1-024f0f5ef126}{155}" paraid="1037989349" >India hot favourites to qualify</h2>

India, now&nbsp;favourites&nbsp;to qualify to the ICC WTC final, will have to win by at least 2-1 in a bid to feature in the summit clash.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-eye-first-test-series-win-over-south-africa-in-17-years-360794" hreflang="en">Pakistan eye first Test series win over South Africa in 17 years</a>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{18bdcf58-725e-496e-bd34-2afb0beb103d}{47}" paraid="1157906843" >New Zealand - first team to qualify for ICC WTC final</h2>

However, with New Zealand's ICC WTC cycle over, the Kiwis are going to the Lord's to play the final of ICC World Test Championship as they become the first team to qualify for the final of the showpiece event.

<img alt="ICC World Test Championship points table" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b4745058-e7d2-44c7-869d-87a881dc6f5c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ICC.JPG" />

The final of ICC World Test Championship was originally scheduled to be played at the Lord's from June 10 but according to reports, it will now be played between June 18-22 at the same venue with a reserve day booked as well.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The latest postponement of the Test series between Australia and South Africa have shaken up the ICC World Test Championship scenario. While India and New Zealand are the first and second teams in the ICC WTC standings, Australia had a chance to qualify for the summit clash had their tour of South Africa gone ahead.

The latest postponement of the Test series between Australia and South Africa have shaken up the ICC World Test Championship scenario. While India and New Zealand are the first and second teams in the ICC WTC standings, Australia had a chance to qualify for the summit clash had their tour of South Africa gone ahead. However, now Australia's chances stand slim given India's impeccable record at home, where they will host England for a four-Test series starting from February 5. While England can still qualify for the ICC World Test Championship final, New Zealand are all set to feature in the grand finale of the inaugural edition of the competition, reported to be played at the Lord's from June 18-22. Pakistan and South Africa are already out of the ICC WTC final race. Australia can still qualify for ICC World Test Championship final Australia can also qualify for the ICC World Test Championship final if the series between India and England ends up as a draw, India win the series 1-0 or England win it by 2-0, 2-1 margin. ALSO READ: Australia vs South Africa Test series postponed over COVID-19 threat What England need to do in order to qualify for ICC WTC? For England to qualify, they have to win the series against India by 3-0, 3-1 or 4-0. But given India's great record at home, the odds are firmly stacked against the Joe Root-led outfit. India hot favourites to qualify India, now favourites to qualify to the ICC WTC final, will have to win by at least 2-1 in a bid to feature in the summit clash. ALSO READ: Pakistan eye first Test series win over South Africa in 17 years New Zealand - first team to qualify for ICC WTC final However, with New Zealand's ICC WTC cycle over, the Kiwis are going to the Lord's to play the final of ICC World Test Championship as they become the first team to qualify for the final of the showpiece event. The final of ICC World Test Championship was originally scheduled to be played at the Lord's from June 10 but according to reports, it will now be played between June 18-22 at the same venue with a reserve day booked as well.

ICC World Test Championship final: Qualification scenario for each team

Veteran physiotherapist John Gloster opined on Monday about the need for teams and sporting bodies to value mental health and its various aspects. To ensure the holistic wellbeing of players, he recommended personalized attention for each player, going beyond the playing XI. Having been a former physio for the Indian cricket and IPL teams, Gloster acknowledges the changes taking place in the modern game and argued for a feedback-based mechanism to help individual players handle mental health issues. With lockdowns, bio-bubbles, hotel quarantines, and COVID-19-related travel restrictions, these issues got accentuated further, leading to injury and fitness issues.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The 2021 season of the Abu Dhabi T10 League is halfway through its schedule, and one of its leading franchises, the Delhi Bulls, is now among the top 3 performers on the points table. As the newly appointed physio for Delhi Bulls, Gloster says that the coaching staff has adopted a creative approach in producing the right environment. He mentions that identifying the minutest details of a player’s daily schedule could help iron out issues on a case by case basis.

The pandemic has caused angst amongst the sporting fraternity, as they were worried about their livelihood, physical fitness, injuries, family welfare, and several other aspects. Speaking on the sidelines of the T10 League, Delhi Bulls’ Physio,&nbsp;John Gloster, said,&nbsp;“It makes the role of support staff that much more important, as they work on providing players with the physical space, nutritional diet, and personalized engagement to be in good spirits. From picking the right hotel accommodation to helping players relish comfort food, we are going out of our way to keep our players positive.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/crowd-allowed-at-50-per-cent-capacity-for-india-vs-england-2nd-test-360809" hreflang="en">Crowd allowed at 50 per cent capacity for India vs England 2nd Test</a>

Citing accessibility constraints of Indian players to training facilities during the initial periods of the lockdown, he mentioned how picking up simple fitness activity, and hobbies helped them divert their minds away from external pressures. Some of these issues pertain to financial commitments, franchise expectations, and fears over long durations of inactivity. He further emphasized how working with players on developing mental strength, and spending quality time with families, is essential to prepare them for upcoming tournaments and manage a quick reset.

Speaking also about the ongoing tournament, Gloster said,&nbsp;“We pulled off two consecutive wins and fought hard in the third. We are supporting each other through this period, and we are quite confident about performing in the coming games.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-eye-first-test-series-win-over-south-africa-in-17-years-360794" hreflang="en">Pakistan eye first Test series win over South Africa in 17 years</a>

Speaking on Delhi Bulls’ performance and John Gloster’s appointment,&nbsp;Owner&nbsp;of Delhi Bulls,&nbsp;Neelesh Bhatnagar, said, “John was the right pick for the role as he is an experienced professional, with a brilliant record of working with the best teams in the world. The support staff has done a great job during a testing time such as the pandemic, and they’ve got our back for everything. We are impressed with how the team adapted to the situation and secured two emphatic wins, and I am sure we’ll continue with this performance.

The league had been postponed to January this year, following the COVID-19 pandemic and several travel restrictions imposed by various countries. The 4th edition of the Abu Dhabi T10 League is currently underway and is scheduled between the 28th of January and 6th of February.&nbsp;

Veteran physiotherapist John Gloster opined on Monday about the need for teams and sporting bodies to value mental health and its various aspects. To ensure the holistic wellbeing of players, he recommended personalized attention for each player, going beyond the playing XI.

Veteran physiotherapist John Gloster opined on Monday about the need for teams and sporting bodies to value mental health and its various aspects. To ensure the holistic wellbeing of players, he recommended personalized attention for each player, going beyond the playing XI. Having been a former physio for the Indian cricket and IPL teams, Gloster acknowledges the changes taking place in the modern game and argued for a feedback-based mechanism to help individual players handle mental health issues. With lockdowns, bio-bubbles, hotel quarantines, and COVID-19-related travel restrictions, these issues got accentuated further, leading to injury and fitness issues. The 2021 season of the Abu Dhabi T10 League is halfway through its schedule, and one of its leading franchises, the Delhi Bulls, is now among the top 3 performers on the points table. As the newly appointed physio for Delhi Bulls, Gloster says that the coaching staff has adopted a creative approach in producing the right environment. He mentions that identifying the minutest details of a player’s daily schedule could help iron out issues on a case by case basis. The pandemic has caused angst amongst the sporting fraternity, as they were worried about their livelihood, physical fitness, injuries, family welfare, and several other aspects. Speaking on the sidelines of the T10 League, Delhi Bulls’ Physio, John Gloster, said, “It makes the role of support staff that much more important, as they work on providing players with the physical space, nutritional diet, and personalized engagement to be in good spirits. From picking the right hotel accommodation to helping players relish comfort food, we are going out of our way to keep our players positive.” ALSO READ: Crowd allowed at 50 per cent capacity for India vs England 2nd Test Citing accessibility constraints of Indian players to training facilities during the initial periods of the lockdown, he mentioned how picking up simple fitness activity, and hobbies helped them divert their minds away from external pressures. Some of these issues pertain to financial commitments, franchise expectations, and fears over long durations of inactivity. He further emphasized how working with players on developing mental strength, and spending quality time with families, is essential to prepare them for upcoming tournaments and manage a quick reset. Speaking also about the ongoing tournament, Gloster said, “We pulled off two consecutive wins and fought hard in the third. We are supporting each other through this period, and we are quite confident about performing in the coming games.” ALSO READ: Pakistan eye first Test series win over South Africa in 17 years Speaking on Delhi Bulls’ performance and John Gloster’s appointment, Owner of Delhi Bulls, Neelesh Bhatnagar, said, “John was the right pick for the role as he is an experienced professional, with a brilliant record of working with the best teams in the world. The support staff has done a great job during a testing time such as the pandemic, and they’ve got our back for everything. We are impressed with how the team adapted to the situation and secured two emphatic wins, and I am sure we’ll continue with this performance. The league had been postponed to January this year, following the COVID-19 pandemic and several travel restrictions imposed by various countries. The 4th edition of the Abu Dhabi T10 League is currently underway and is scheduled between the 28th of January and 6th of February.

'Building mental strength essential to improve the game during the pandemic': Delhi Bulls Physio John Gloster

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