The players auction for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 is all set to be held on February 18 in Chennai. The official Twitter handle of Indian Premier League on Wednesday&nbsp;confirmed that the mini-auction will be held on February 18 while also confirming the venue of the event.&nbsp;&nbsp;

With IPL 2021 retention deadline day bringing plenty of action in regards to franchises retaining and releasing their respective players, the IPL 2021 mini-auction is expected to provide&nbsp;thrilling action as teams look to bolster their squads ahead of the much-awaited 14th&nbsp;season of IPL. The IPL 2021 trading window is set to end on February 4.&nbsp;

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🚨ALERT🚨: IPL 2021 Player Auction on 18th February🗓️ 
 
Venue 📍: Chennai 
 
How excited are you for this year's Player Auction? 😎👍 
 
Set your reminder folks 🕰️ <a href="https://t.co/xCnUDdGJCa">pic.twitter.com/xCnUDdGJCa</a>
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1354337574735597568?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2021</a></blockquote>
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However, the BCCI is still undecided on whether the IPL 2021 will be held in India or not. But the priority for the Indian board remains that the lucrative T20 tournament happens in India.&nbsp;&nbsp;

IPL 2020 was taken abroad, to the United Arab Emirates, in September-November due to the COVID-19 pandemic as the BCCI successfully pulled off the multi-team tournament without a hitch.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-australia-confirms-indian-players-racially-abused-at-the-scg-359597" hreflang="en">Cricket Australia confirms Indian players racially abused at the SCG</a>

Smooth conduct of India's full-fledged home series against England, scheduled to start from February 5, should pave the way for the cash-rich tournament to be held at home.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Meanwhile, elite players like Steve Smith, Glenn Maxwell, Chris Morris among others were released from their respective franchise on the IPL 2021 retention deadline.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Mumbai Indians won the IPL 2020 after a splendid show in the UAE as the Rohit Sharma-led outfit lifted a record fifth IPL trophy.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-england-cricket-team-arrives-in-chennai-for-test-series-versus-india-359613" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG: England cricket team arrives in Chennai for Test series versus India</a>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{4c81c94e-6116-42f2-8275-77ae3f3f3ac6}{89}" paraid="1245299158" >Retained players list of all IPL 2021 franchise:&nbsp;</h2>

List of retained players by Royal Challengers Bangalore: Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers,&nbsp;Yuzvendra&nbsp;Chahal, Devdutt&nbsp;Padikkal, Josh Philippe, Mohammad Siraj, Washington Sundar, Navdeep Saini, Shahbaz Ahmed, Pavan Deshpande, Adam Zampa, Kane Richardson&nbsp;

List of retained players by Chennai Super Kings: N Jagadeesan, R Gaikwad, KM Asif, R Jadeja, MS Dhoni, J&nbsp;Hazlewood, K Sharma, A Rayudu, S Raina, I Tahir, D Chahar,&nbsp;Faf&nbsp;du Plessis, S Thakur, M Santner, D Bravo, L Ngidi, S Curran, S Kishore.&nbsp;

List of retained players by Kings XI Punjab: KL Rahul, Gayle, Pooran, Shami, Jordan, Mandeep, Mayank, Bishnoi,&nbsp;Prabhsimran, Hooda, Sarfaraz, Arshdeep, M Ashwin, Arshdeep, Porel, Harpreet&nbsp;

List of retained players by Sunrisers Hyderabad: David Warner (c), Abhishek Sharma, Basil Thampi, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jonny Bairstow, Kane Williamson, Manish Pandey, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Sandeep Sharma, Shahbaz Nadeem,&nbsp;Shreevats&nbsp;Goswami, Siddarth Kaul, Khaleel Ahmed, T Natarajan, Vijay Shankar, Wriddhiman Saha, Abdul Samad, Mitchell Marsh, Priyam Garg, Virat Singh&nbsp;

List of retained players by Kolkata Knight Riders: Dinesh Karthik, Nitish Rana, Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, Eoin Morgan, Rahul Tripathi, Sunil Narine, Andre Russell, Pat Cummins, Varun Chakravarthy, Lockie Ferguson, Kuldeep Yadav, Kamlesh&nbsp;Nagarkoti, Shivam Mavi, Prasidh Krishna, Harry Gurney, Sandeep Warrier.&nbsp;

List of retained players by Rajasthan Royals: Robin Uthappa, Mahipal&nbsp;Lomror, Manan Vohra, Riyan Parag, Mayank&nbsp;Markande, Shreyas Gopal, Varun Aaron, Jaydev Unadkat, Kartik Tyagi, Akash Singh, Rahul&nbsp;Tewatia, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sanju Samson, Anuj Rawat, David Miller, Jofra Archer, Andrew Tye, Ben Stokes, Tom Curran, Jos Buttler.&nbsp;

List of retained players by Mumbai Indians: Rohit Sharma (c), Suryakumar Yadav,&nbsp;Anmolpreet&nbsp;Singh, Saurabh Tiwary, Dhawal Kulkarni, Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah, Rahul Chahar, Hardik Pandya, Jayant Yadav, Krunal Pandya, Anukul Roy, Ishan Kishan, Aditya Tare, Chris Lynn, Trent Boult, Kieron Pollard, Quinton de Kock.&nbsp;

List of retained players by Delhi Capitals: Shreyas Iyer, Ajinkya Rahane, Shikhar Dhawan, Prithvi Shaw, Rishabh Pant, Shimron Hetmyer,&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;Patel,&nbsp;Stoinis, Lalit Yadav, Chris&nbsp;Woakes, Pravin Dubey, Amit Mishra, Kagiso&nbsp;Rabada, Ishant Sharma, R. Ashwin, Avesh Khan, Anrich Nortje.&nbsp;

The players auction for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 is all set to be held on February 18 in Chennai. The official Twitter handle of Indian Premier League on Wednesday confirmed that the mini-auction will be held on February 18 while also confirming the venue of the event.

The players auction for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 is all set to be held on February 18 in Chennai. The official Twitter handle of Indian Premier League on Wednesday confirmed that the mini-auction will be held on February 18 while also confirming the venue of the event. With IPL 2021 retention deadline day bringing plenty of action in regards to franchises retaining and releasing their respective players, the IPL 2021 mini-auction is expected to provide thrilling action as teams look to bolster their squads ahead of the much-awaited 14th season of IPL. The IPL 2021 trading window is set to end on February 4. 🚨ALERT🚨: IPL 2021 Player Auction on 18th February🗓️ Venue 📍: Chennai How excited are you for this year's Player Auction? 😎👍 Set your reminder folks 🕰️ pic.twitter.com/xCnUDdGJCa — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) January 27, 2021 × However, the BCCI is still undecided on whether the IPL 2021 will be held in India or not. But the priority for the Indian board remains that the lucrative T20 tournament happens in India. IPL 2020 was taken abroad, to the United Arab Emirates, in September-November due to the COVID-19 pandemic as the BCCI successfully pulled off the multi-team tournament without a hitch. ALSO READ: Cricket Australia confirms Indian players racially abused at the SCG Smooth conduct of India's full-fledged home series against England, scheduled to start from February 5, should pave the way for the cash-rich tournament to be held at home. Meanwhile, elite players like Steve Smith, Glenn Maxwell, Chris Morris among others were released from their respective franchise on the IPL 2021 retention deadline. Mumbai Indians won the IPL 2020 after a splendid show in the UAE as the Rohit Sharma-led outfit lifted a record fifth IPL trophy. ALSO READ: IND vs ENG: England cricket team arrives in Chennai for Test series versus India Retained players list of all IPL 2021 franchise: List of retained players by Royal Challengers Bangalore: Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, Yuzvendra Chahal, Devdutt Padikkal, Josh Philippe, Mohammad Siraj, Washington Sundar, Navdeep Saini, Shahbaz Ahmed, Pavan Deshpande, Adam Zampa, Kane Richardson List of retained players by Chennai Super Kings: N Jagadeesan, R Gaikwad, KM Asif, R Jadeja, MS Dhoni, J Hazlewood, K Sharma, A Rayudu, S Raina, I Tahir, D Chahar, Faf du Plessis, S Thakur, M Santner, D Bravo, L Ngidi, S Curran, S Kishore. List of retained players by Kings XI Punjab: KL Rahul, Gayle, Pooran, Shami, Jordan, Mandeep, Mayank, Bishnoi, Prabhsimran, Hooda, Sarfaraz, Arshdeep, M Ashwin, Arshdeep, Porel, Harpreet List of retained players by Sunrisers Hyderabad: David Warner (c), Abhishek Sharma, Basil Thampi, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jonny Bairstow, Kane Williamson, Manish Pandey, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Sandeep Sharma, Shahbaz Nadeem, Shreevats Goswami, Siddarth Kaul, Khaleel Ahmed, T Natarajan, Vijay Shankar, Wriddhiman Saha, Abdul Samad, Mitchell Marsh, Priyam Garg, Virat Singh List of retained players by Kolkata Knight Riders: Dinesh Karthik, Nitish Rana, Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, Eoin Morgan, Rahul Tripathi, Sunil Narine, Andre Russell, Pat Cummins, Varun Chakravarthy, Lockie Ferguson, Kuldeep Yadav, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, Shivam Mavi, Prasidh Krishna, Harry Gurney, Sandeep Warrier. List of retained players by Rajasthan Royals: Robin Uthappa, Mahipal Lomror, Manan Vohra, Riyan Parag, Mayank Markande, Shreyas Gopal, Varun Aaron, Jaydev Unadkat, Kartik Tyagi, Akash Singh, Rahul Tewatia, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sanju Samson, Anuj Rawat, David Miller, Jofra Archer, Andrew Tye, Ben Stokes, Tom Curran, Jos Buttler. List of retained players by Mumbai Indians: Rohit Sharma (c), Suryakumar Yadav, Anmolpreet Singh, Saurabh Tiwary, Dhawal Kulkarni, Jasprit Bumrah, Rahul Chahar, Hardik Pandya, Jayant Yadav, Krunal Pandya, Anukul Roy, Ishan Kishan, Aditya Tare, Chris Lynn, Trent Boult, Kieron Pollard, Quinton de Kock. List of retained players by Delhi Capitals: Shreyas Iyer, Ajinkya Rahane, Shikhar Dhawan, Prithvi Shaw, Rishabh Pant, Shimron Hetmyer, Axar Patel, Stoinis, Lalit Yadav, Chris Woakes, Pravin Dubey, Amit Mishra, Kagiso Rabada, Ishant Sharma, R. Ashwin, Avesh Khan, Anrich Nortje.

IPL 2021 auction to be held on February 18 in Chennai

Members of the England cricket team including captain Joe Root on Wednesday landed in Chennai, India for the impending four-Test series with the first two matches scheduled to be played in the capital of Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;The England team flew in from Sri Lanka at around 10:30 am and headed to the hotel where the members of the two teams will be staying as part of the bio-secure bubble.&nbsp;

The England team are heading into the highly-anticipated series after an incredible 2-0 win over Sri Lanka where skipper Root slammed two massive tons. Star all-rounder Ben Stokes and pacer Jofra Archer had already arrived in Chennai on Sunday and are already in quarantine.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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📍 Chennai, India<a href="https://twitter.com/root66?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@root66</a> and the team have arrived in India ahead of our four-match Test series 🇮🇳🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 <a href="https://t.co/GT06p9Ru4u">pic.twitter.com/GT06p9Ru4u</a>
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/englandcricket/status/1354332131103825923?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2021</a></blockquote>
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While a few Indian players including the likes of Test vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane, Rohit Sharma arrived in the southern city on Tuesday, others such as Cheteshwar Pujara, Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah&nbsp;and Rishabh Pant reached Chennai on Wednesday morning. Indian skipper Virat Kohli is set to arrive in the city later on Wednesday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-australia-confirms-indian-players-racially-abused-at-the-scg-359597" hreflang="en">Cricket Australia confirms Indian players racially abused at the SCG</a>

Both India and England will be staying at the Hotel Leela Palace in a bio-secure bubble as part of the quarantine protocols and will undergo testing for COVID-19. The players will be in quarantine for six days and are scheduled to start&nbsp;practising&nbsp;from February 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Tamil Nadu: England Cricket team and staff arrive at Chennai Airport. The first Test of the four-match series between India and England will begin on 5th February at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> <a href="https://t.co/NpWLJPIcnn">pic.twitter.com/NpWLJPIcnn</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1354321398227849219?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The first Test is due to be played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium from February 5 with the second scheduled from February 14.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-introduces-player-of-the-month-awards-siraj-ashwin-root-in-contention-among-others-359603" hreflang="en">ICC introduces Player of the Month awards; Siraj, Ashwin, Root in contention among others</a>

It will be a homecoming of Test matches in Chennai after the city last hosted the longest format of the game in December 2016 against England. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the first two matches of the Test series will be played behind closed doors and call&nbsp;over crowds&nbsp;on remaining matches&nbsp;will be taken at a later stage by the BCCI.&nbsp;

Members of the England cricket team including captain Joe Root on Wednesday landed in Chennai, India for the impending four-Test series with the first two matches scheduled to be played in the capital of Tamil Nadu.

Members of the England cricket team including captain Joe Root on Wednesday landed in Chennai, India for the impending four-Test series with the first two matches scheduled to be played in the capital of Tamil Nadu. The England team flew in from Sri Lanka at around 10:30 am and headed to the hotel where the members of the two teams will be staying as part of the bio-secure bubble. The England team are heading into the highly-anticipated series after an incredible 2-0 win over Sri Lanka where skipper Root slammed two massive tons. Star all-rounder Ben Stokes and pacer Jofra Archer had already arrived in Chennai on Sunday and are already in quarantine. 📍 Chennai, India@root66 and the team have arrived in India ahead of our four-match Test series 🇮🇳🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 pic.twitter.com/GT06p9Ru4u — England Cricket (@englandcricket) January 27, 2021 × While a few Indian players including the likes of Test vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane, Rohit Sharma arrived in the southern city on Tuesday, others such as Cheteshwar Pujara, Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant reached Chennai on Wednesday morning. Indian skipper Virat Kohli is set to arrive in the city later on Wednesday. ALSO READ: Cricket Australia confirms Indian players racially abused at the SCG Both India and England will be staying at the Hotel Leela Palace in a bio-secure bubble as part of the quarantine protocols and will undergo testing for COVID-19. The players will be in quarantine for six days and are scheduled to start practising from February 2. Tamil Nadu: England Cricket team and staff arrive at Chennai Airport. The first Test of the four-match series between India and England will begin on 5th February at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. #INDvENG pic.twitter.com/NpWLJPIcnn — ANI (@ANI) January 27, 2021 × The first Test is due to be played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium from February 5 with the second scheduled from February 14. ALSO READ: ICC introduces Player of the Month awards; Siraj, Ashwin, Root in contention among others It will be a homecoming of Test matches in Chennai after the city last hosted the longest format of the game in December 2016 against England. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the first two matches of the Test series will be played behind closed doors and call over crowds on remaining matches will be taken at a later stage by the BCCI.

IND vs ENG: England cricket team arrives in Chennai for Test series versus India

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Wednesday announced the introduction of the ICC Player of the Month awards which will recognise and celebrate the best performances of both male and female cricketers across all forms of international cricket throughout the year.

An independent ICC Voting Academy comprising former players, broadcasters, and journalists from around the world, will team up with fans to vote for the ICC Men’s Player of the Month and ICC Women’s Player of the Month.

Fans have been treated to some sensational cricketing performances during the month of January making the inaugural player of the month awards a highly competitive affair. From performances from youngsters such as Mohammed Siraj (IND), Washington Sundar (IND), T. Natarajan (IND), Rishabh Pant (IND), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (AFG) to established players such as Ravichandran Ashwin (IND), Joe Root (ENG), Steve Smith (AUS), Marizanne Kapp (SA), Nadine de Klerk (SA), Nida Dar (PAK), there will be no shortage of candidates for the month of January.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-australia-confirms-indian-players-racially-abused-at-the-scg-359597" hreflang="en">Cricket Australia confirms Indian players racially abused at the SCG</a>

Geoff Allardice, ICC General Manager – Cricket&nbsp;said: “The ICC Player of the Month is a great way to connect with fans of the sport and celebrate performances of their favourite players through the year. It gives us all an opportunity to acknowledge world-class performances on the field by male and female cricketers and they have been in abundance throughout January.”

<h2>The nomination and voting process:</h2>

The three nominees for each of the categories will be determined by the ICC Awards Nominations Committee based on on-field performances and overall achievements during the period of that month (the first to the last day of each calendar month.)

This shortlist is then voted for by the independent ICC Voting Academy and fans around the world. The ICC Voting Academy comprising prominent members of the cricket family including senior journalists, former players, and broadcasters.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/icc-announces-decade-awards-from-kohli-smith-to-perry-heres-complete-list-of-winners-352996" hreflang="en">ICC announces Decade Awards: From Kohli, Smith to Perry - Here's complete list of winners</a>

The Voting Academy will submit their votes by email and will retain a 90% share of the vote. Subsequently, on the 1st day of each month, fans registered with the ICC will be able to submit votes via the ICC website and will have a 10% share of the vote. Winners will be announced every second Monday of the month on the ICC’s digital channels.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Wednesday announced the introduction of the ICC Player of the Month awards which will recognise and celebrate the best performances of both male and female cricketers across all forms of international cricket throughout the year.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Wednesday announced the introduction of the ICC Player of the Month awards which will recognise and celebrate the best performances of both male and female cricketers across all forms of international cricket throughout the year. An independent ICC Voting Academy comprising former players, broadcasters, and journalists from around the world, will team up with fans to vote for the ICC Men’s Player of the Month and ICC Women’s Player of the Month. Fans have been treated to some sensational cricketing performances during the month of January making the inaugural player of the month awards a highly competitive affair. From performances from youngsters such as Mohammed Siraj (IND), Washington Sundar (IND), T. Natarajan (IND), Rishabh Pant (IND), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (AFG) to established players such as Ravichandran Ashwin (IND), Joe Root (ENG), Steve Smith (AUS), Marizanne Kapp (SA), Nadine de Klerk (SA), Nida Dar (PAK), there will be no shortage of candidates for the month of January. ALSO READ: Cricket Australia confirms Indian players racially abused at the SCG Geoff Allardice, ICC General Manager – Cricket said: “The ICC Player of the Month is a great way to connect with fans of the sport and celebrate performances of their favourite players through the year. It gives us all an opportunity to acknowledge world-class performances on the field by male and female cricketers and they have been in abundance throughout January.” The nomination and voting process: The three nominees for each of the categories will be determined by the ICC Awards Nominations Committee based on on-field performances and overall achievements during the period of that month (the first to the last day of each calendar month.) This shortlist is then voted for by the independent ICC Voting Academy and fans around the world. The ICC Voting Academy comprising prominent members of the cricket family including senior journalists, former players, and broadcasters. ALSO READ: ICC announces Decade Awards: From Kohli, Smith to Perry - Here's complete list of winners The Voting Academy will submit their votes by email and will retain a 90% share of the vote. Subsequently, on the 1st day of each month, fans registered with the ICC will be able to submit votes via the ICC website and will have a 10% share of the vote. Winners will be announced every second Monday of the month on the ICC’s digital channels.

ICC introduces Player of the Month awards; Siraj, Ashwin, Root in contention among others

Tottenham left it late to see off Championship strugglers Wycombe 4-1 with three goals in the final four minutes to reach the FA Cup fifth round on Monday.

Jose Mourinho took the chance to leave Harry Kane, Son Heung-min and Tanguy Ndombele on the bench with Spurs facing a brutal schedule across four competitions in the coming months.

But all three were needed in the second-half to get past a Wycombe side that have won just three times in 23 games in the second-tier Championship this season.

"The attitude was very good. The players I brought from the bench come with the intention of bringing something to the team, so overall I think it was a good squad performance and a good result," Mourinho told BT Sport.

Gareth Bale was given a rare start in his second spell at Spurs by Mourinho, but the on-loan Real Madrid winger missed three big chances early on to give the visitors the lead.

Instead, Tottenham were forced to come from behind when Fred Onyedinma swept home at the far post on 25 minutes.

Japhet Tanganga and Moussa Sissoko struck the crossbar as chances continued to come and go for Mourinho's men until Bale made amends for his earlier misses by equalising in first-half stoppage time.

Tottenham host Liverpool in the Premier League on Thursday, but Mourinho held nothing in reserve as he tries to end the club's 13-year wait for a trophy by sending on Kane, Son and Ndombele after the break.

An extra 30 minutes were the last thing Spurs needed and they finally made the breakthrough when Harry Winks curled home from the edge of the area after Kane had been denied by Ryan Allsop.

Ndombele has been a player transformed in recent weeks after a difficult first season in England following his move from Lyon for Tottenham's club record fee.

The Frenchman tapped home Son's pass to make it 3-1 and then showed stunning footwork to bamboozle the Wycombe defence and fire in at the near post in stoppage time.

"He's very creative. He's one of these players that can break the balance." added Mourinho on Ndombele starting to deliver on his 60 million euros ($73 million, £53 million) price tag. "On top of that, if he can score a goal for us that's even better."

Spurs will face Everton away in the last 16 next month.

Tottenham left it late to see off Championship strugglers Wycombe 4-1 with three goals in the final four minutes to reach the FA Cup fifth round on Monday. Jose Mourinho took the chance to leave Harry Kane, Son Heung-min and Tanguy Ndombele on the bench with Spurs facing a brutal schedule across four competitions in the coming months.

Tottenham left it late to see off Championship strugglers Wycombe 4-1 with three goals in the final four minutes to reach the FA Cup fifth round on Monday. Jose Mourinho took the chance to leave Harry Kane, Son Heung-min and Tanguy Ndombele on the bench with Spurs facing a brutal schedule across four competitions in the coming months. But all three were needed in the second-half to get past a Wycombe side that have won just three times in 23 games in the second-tier Championship this season. "The attitude was very good. The players I brought from the bench come with the intention of bringing something to the team, so overall I think it was a good squad performance and a good result," Mourinho told BT Sport. Gareth Bale was given a rare start in his second spell at Spurs by Mourinho, but the on-loan Real Madrid winger missed three big chances early on to give the visitors the lead. Instead, Tottenham were forced to come from behind when Fred Onyedinma swept home at the far post on 25 minutes. Japhet Tanganga and Moussa Sissoko struck the crossbar as chances continued to come and go for Mourinho's men until Bale made amends for his earlier misses by equalising in first-half stoppage time. Tottenham host Liverpool in the Premier League on Thursday, but Mourinho held nothing in reserve as he tries to end the club's 13-year wait for a trophy by sending on Kane, Son and Ndombele after the break. An extra 30 minutes were the last thing Spurs needed and they finally made the breakthrough when Harry Winks curled home from the edge of the area after Kane had been denied by Ryan Allsop. Ndombele has been a player transformed in recent weeks after a difficult first season in England following his move from Lyon for Tottenham's club record fee. The Frenchman tapped home Son's pass to make it 3-1 and then showed stunning footwork to bamboozle the Wycombe defence and fire in at the near post in stoppage time. "He's very creative. He's one of these players that can break the balance." added Mourinho on Ndombele starting to deliver on his 60 million euros ($73 million, £53 million) price tag. "On top of that, if he can score a goal for us that's even better." Spurs will face Everton away in the last 16 next month.

Late show sees Spurs past Wycombe and into FA Cup fifth round

James Harden believes the best is yet to come after producing a late burst of scoring to lead the Brooklyn Nets to a 98-85 victory over the Miami Heat on Monday.

Harden -- who joined the Nets in a blockbuster trade from Houston earlier this month -- produced a dazzling burst of fourth-quarter scoring as Brooklyn finally overpowered an under-strength Miami team.

The 2018 NBA Most Valuable Player poured on 16 of his 20 points in the final period to lead the Brooklyn scoring alongside Kevin Durant, who also had 20.

Harden and Durant's contributions in the fourth quarter proved decisive, with the duo making a succession of three-pointers as Brooklyn reeled off 15 unanswered points.

Kyrie Irving had 16 points, while Joe Harris finished with 12 and DeAndre Jordan 11. The victory improved the Nets' season record to 11-8 in the Eastern Conference.

But it was Harden who caught the eye with his game-changing late cameo that swung the contest in Brooklyn's favor.

"I was in a role for eight years (in Houston) where I was controlling the ball, dominating the ball," Harden said. "Now it's a different experience for me but it's still great.

"It's still basketball at the end of the day. It's fun. Once we get a rhythm and flow it will be a lot easier for us.

<h2>- 'One of the greatest' -</h2>

Nets coach Steve Nash showered praise on Brooklyn's star new recruit.

"He was great," Nash said of Harden. "We're starting to see a glimpse of the things he can do scoring the ball.

"He's one of the greatest offensive players to ever play the game. He's so effective manipulating the defense that he's a positive even when he's not scoring."

Brooklyn are also starting to see the best of Durant, who delivered another consistent performance in the latest chapter in his return after a year-long injury absence. Durant has now scored 20 points or more in 14 straight games.

"Man, I feel good," Durant said. "Mentally I feel like I'm still catching up to the speed of the game, but physically I feel solid.

"I just try to come out there and produce, and rely on the work that I put in."

Elsewhere on Monday, LeBron James conjured another virtuoso performance for the Los Angeles Lakers in a 115-108 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers in Ohio.

James finished with 46 points, eight rebounds and six assists to subdue his former club.

"It always feels great to get a win, especially in the purple and gold," James said afterwards.

"I'm just trying to build my game where I can beat them at all facets, from the perimeter, from the mid-range, from the low posts.

"Just trying to be dominant where I can keep the defense off-balance and I was able to do that tonight."

<h2>- 'Pretty awesome' -</h2>

Lakers coach Frank Vogel was left marveling at another ageless performance from the 36-year-old James.

"Pretty awesome just to see that he can still turn it up like that," Vogel said. "Obviously, he wanted to win against his former team here. One of those nights for the ages from him."

Anthony Davis finished with 17 points for the Lakers, while Dennis Schroder and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope had 10 points apiece.

The win nudged the Lakers back into first place in the Western Conference standings, with 14 wins and four defeats. The Los Angeles Clippers, who play in Atlanta on Tuesday, are second on 13-4.

Elsewhere on Monday, the lowly Detroit Pistons upset the Eastern Conference-leading Philadelphia 76ers 119-104 with the help of a 28-point haul from Delon Wright.

The Pistons, bottom of the East on 4-13, romped to a blowout win with Jerami Grant also adding 25 points.

In Dallas, meanwhile, Denver Nuggets guard Jamal Murray was ejected after appearing to hit the Mavericks' Tim Hardaway Jr in the groin in an off-the-ball incident in the third quarter. The Nuggets went on to win 117-113.

James Harden believes the best is yet to come after producing a late burst of scoring to lead the Brooklyn Nets to a 98-85 victory over the Miami Heat on Monday.

James Harden believes the best is yet to come after producing a late burst of scoring to lead the Brooklyn Nets to a 98-85 victory over the Miami Heat on Monday. Harden -- who joined the Nets in a blockbuster trade from Houston earlier this month -- produced a dazzling burst of fourth-quarter scoring as Brooklyn finally overpowered an under-strength Miami team. The 2018 NBA Most Valuable Player poured on 16 of his 20 points in the final period to lead the Brooklyn scoring alongside Kevin Durant, who also had 20. Harden and Durant's contributions in the fourth quarter proved decisive, with the duo making a succession of three-pointers as Brooklyn reeled off 15 unanswered points. Kyrie Irving had 16 points, while Joe Harris finished with 12 and DeAndre Jordan 11. The victory improved the Nets' season record to 11-8 in the Eastern Conference. But it was Harden who caught the eye with his game-changing late cameo that swung the contest in Brooklyn's favor. "I was in a role for eight years (in Houston) where I was controlling the ball, dominating the ball," Harden said. "Now it's a different experience for me but it's still great. "It's still basketball at the end of the day. It's fun. Once we get a rhythm and flow it will be a lot easier for us. - 'One of the greatest' - Nets coach Steve Nash showered praise on Brooklyn's star new recruit. "He was great," Nash said of Harden. "We're starting to see a glimpse of the things he can do scoring the ball. "He's one of the greatest offensive players to ever play the game. He's so effective manipulating the defense that he's a positive even when he's not scoring." Brooklyn are also starting to see the best of Durant, who delivered another consistent performance in the latest chapter in his return after a year-long injury absence. Durant has now scored 20 points or more in 14 straight games. "Man, I feel good," Durant said. "Mentally I feel like I'm still catching up to the speed of the game, but physically I feel solid. "I just try to come out there and produce, and rely on the work that I put in." Elsewhere on Monday, LeBron James conjured another virtuoso performance for the Los Angeles Lakers in a 115-108 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers in Ohio. James finished with 46 points, eight rebounds and six assists to subdue his former club. "It always feels great to get a win, especially in the purple and gold," James said afterwards. "I'm just trying to build my game where I can beat them at all facets, from the perimeter, from the mid-range, from the low posts. "Just trying to be dominant where I can keep the defense off-balance and I was able to do that tonight." - 'Pretty awesome' - Lakers coach Frank Vogel was left marveling at another ageless performance from the 36-year-old James. "Pretty awesome just to see that he can still turn it up like that," Vogel said. "Obviously, he wanted to win against his former team here. One of those nights for the ages from him." Anthony Davis finished with 17 points for the Lakers, while Dennis Schroder and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope had 10 points apiece. The win nudged the Lakers back into first place in the Western Conference standings, with 14 wins and four defeats. The Los Angeles Clippers, who play in Atlanta on Tuesday, are second on 13-4. Elsewhere on Monday, the lowly Detroit Pistons upset the Eastern Conference-leading Philadelphia 76ers 119-104 with the help of a 28-point haul from Delon Wright. The Pistons, bottom of the East on 4-13, romped to a blowout win with Jerami Grant also adding 25 points. In Dallas, meanwhile, Denver Nuggets guard Jamal Murray was ejected after appearing to hit the Mavericks' Tim Hardaway Jr in the groin in an off-the-ball incident in the third quarter. The Nuggets went on to win 117-113.

Harden leads Nets over Heat, LeBron sparks Lakers

The world's ongoing coronavirus crisis and plunging public support in Japan have raised fears that the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, postponed last year and now due to start in July, may be cancelled.

As Japanese and International Olympic Committee officials insist the Games will go ahead, here are the major questions surrounding cancellation:

<h2>- What are officials saying? -</h2>

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga said Friday he was "determined" to hold the Games this July, while a government spokesman dismissed a report claiming officials see cancellation as inevitable.

International Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach said last week there was "no reason whatsoever" for the event not to go ahead, but also admitted it may involve fewer fans, or even be held behind closed doors.

Decisions on whether to allow overseas fans, and how full venues will be, are set to be taken in the coming months.

<h2>- What do athletes think? -</h2>

Athlete pressure was seen as a driving force behind last year's postponement, with the Australian and Canadian Olympic committees pulling their teams out days before the decision was made.

This time, Australia, Canada and the United States have come out in support of the Games, and&nbsp;Greek pole vault champion Katerina Stefanidi -- who led calls for last year's postponement -- has said she would prefer it to be held with no fans than not at all.

Top US gymnast Simone Biles said the decision had to be based on "what's safe for the world", but added she was "hoping the Olympics can be put on, even if it means we're in a bubble".

But Japanese gymnastics star Kohei Uchimura sounded a note of caution, saying the event "can't be held if the athletes and the people don't feel the same way".

<h2>- What would cancellation cost? -</h2>

Tokyo 2020's latest budget was revealed as 1.64 trillion yen ($15.8 billion) in December -- up 294 billion yen ($2.8 billion) because of costs linked to the delay and virus countermeasures.

There are suggestions the final price-tag may be significantly higher, possibly making the event the most expensive Summer Olympics in history.

Calculating the cost of cancellation is complicated, especially as running the Games only accounts for about 0.1 percent of Japan's GDP.

Tomoaki Iwai, a political science professor at Nihon University, said cancellation could have a "tremendous economic impact" at a time when coronavirus is already a major headwind.

"The tourism sector and related businesses would see huge damage," he told AFP.

But other analysts argue tourism and spending linked to the Games is not that significant, meaning a cancellation would not necessarily involve massive losses.

<h2>- How would Japan's government react? -</h2>

Suga, who has only been in office since September, has seen his approval ratings nosedive over his handling of the coronavirus.&nbsp;

The greater Tokyo region and several other parts of the country are under a state of emergency until February 7, but the government has been accused of waiting too long to impose the measure and of mixed messaging.

Polls show around 80 percent of the public oppose holding the Games this year, so a cancellation might not be all bad news for Suga politically.

"It would strike me that the political risks of holding the Games and having them result in a new outbreak are greater than admitting that the risks are too great and working with the IOC to find some alternative plan that is more suitable," said Tobias Harris, a Japan analyst at Teneo Intelligence.

<h2>- What would it mean for Olympic sports? -</h2>

The IOC has vast reserves that have allowed it to cope with postponement, but experts say cancellation would have disastrous consequences for individual sports.

Many national and international sporting federations would find themselves in financial danger, with some relying on IOC payouts to survive.

Athletes who have trained for years to appear on the Olympic stage would find their hopes dashed, with many unsure whether they'll be able to qualify for the next Games, Paris 2024.

Cancellation would also deal a blow to the Olympics' image in an era when fewer cities have been coming forward to host the costly Games.

The world's ongoing coronavirus crisis and plunging public support in Japan have raised fears that the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, postponed last year and now due to start in July, may be cancelled.

The world's ongoing coronavirus crisis and plunging public support in Japan have raised fears that the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, postponed last year and now due to start in July, may be cancelled. As Japanese and International Olympic Committee officials insist the Games will go ahead, here are the major questions surrounding cancellation: - What are officials saying? - Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga said Friday he was "determined" to hold the Games this July, while a government spokesman dismissed a report claiming officials see cancellation as inevitable. International Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach said last week there was "no reason whatsoever" for the event not to go ahead, but also admitted it may involve fewer fans, or even be held behind closed doors. Decisions on whether to allow overseas fans, and how full venues will be, are set to be taken in the coming months. - What do athletes think? - Athlete pressure was seen as a driving force behind last year's postponement, with the Australian and Canadian Olympic committees pulling their teams out days before the decision was made. This time, Australia, Canada and the United States have come out in support of the Games, and Greek pole vault champion Katerina Stefanidi -- who led calls for last year's postponement -- has said she would prefer it to be held with no fans than not at all. Top US gymnast Simone Biles said the decision had to be based on "what's safe for the world", but added she was "hoping the Olympics can be put on, even if it means we're in a bubble". But Japanese gymnastics star Kohei Uchimura sounded a note of caution, saying the event "can't be held if the athletes and the people don't feel the same way". - What would cancellation cost? - Tokyo 2020's latest budget was revealed as 1.64 trillion yen ($15.8 billion) in December -- up 294 billion yen ($2.8 billion) because of costs linked to the delay and virus countermeasures. There are suggestions the final price-tag may be significantly higher, possibly making the event the most expensive Summer Olympics in history. Calculating the cost of cancellation is complicated, especially as running the Games only accounts for about 0.1 percent of Japan's GDP. Tomoaki Iwai, a political science professor at Nihon University, said cancellation could have a "tremendous economic impact" at a time when coronavirus is already a major headwind. "The tourism sector and related businesses would see huge damage," he told AFP. But other analysts argue tourism and spending linked to the Games is not that significant, meaning a cancellation would not necessarily involve massive losses. - How would Japan's government react? - Suga, who has only been in office since September, has seen his approval ratings nosedive over his handling of the coronavirus. The greater Tokyo region and several other parts of the country are under a state of emergency until February 7, but the government has been accused of waiting too long to impose the measure and of mixed messaging. Polls show around 80 percent of the public oppose holding the Games this year, so a cancellation might not be all bad news for Suga politically. "It would strike me that the political risks of holding the Games and having them result in a new outbreak are greater than admitting that the risks are too great and working with the IOC to find some alternative plan that is more suitable," said Tobias Harris, a Japan analyst at Teneo Intelligence. - What would it mean for Olympic sports? - The IOC has vast reserves that have allowed it to cope with postponement, but experts say cancellation would have disastrous consequences for individual sports. Many national and international sporting federations would find themselves in financial danger, with some relying on IOC payouts to survive. Athletes who have trained for years to appear on the Olympic stage would find their hopes dashed, with many unsure whether they'll be able to qualify for the next Games, Paris 2024. Cancellation would also deal a blow to the Olympics' image in an era when fewer cities have been coming forward to host the costly Games.

Will they, won't they? Key questions for troubled Tokyo Olympics

Japan's government said Tuesday it still planned to recruit 10,000 medical personnel for the virus-delayed Olympics, despite the heavy strain on the healthcare system caused by a third wave of infections.

Opposition politicians grilled the government over the plans in parliament, as medical associations raised the alarm about dwindling capacity.

Japan's government and Olympic officials have insisted the Games will open as scheduled this July, despite rising infections at home and abroad, and sinking domestic support.

And in parliament on Tuesday, Olympic Minister Seiko Hashimoto said the government was still committed to a plan to secure thousands of medical staff for the Games.

"We are trying to secure necessary medical staff of around 10,000, on the premise of asking doctors and nurses that each of them work about five days during the Games period," she said.

Games organisers are still discussing the exact medical provisions needed and how to "deal with Covid-19 infections" at the delayed event, she told parliament.

Just six months before the huge international event is due to begin, Tokyo and other areas are under a state of emergency to tackle a record spike in Covid-19 cases.

Japan has been hit less hard than many other countries, with about 5,000 virus deaths overall, but doctors have warned medical facilities are at risk of collapse -- especially if the Olympics triggers fresh outbreaks.

The worsened global virus situation has renewed doubts over the postponed 2020 Olympics, set to start in July, and polls indicate plunging public support in Japan.

In December, organisers announced safety measures including regular testing for athletes and an "infection control centre" to deal with positive cases.

But the Japan Medical Association's president raised the alarm last week over the possibility of overseas visitors coming for the Games.

Toshio Nakagawa said that, under current conditions, it would be "impossible" to admit to hospital any foreign visitor who caught coronavirus at the Games.

Around 11,000 athletes from some 200 countries are expected to take part in the Games, but a decision on spectators is not expected before spring.

The International Olympic Committee has said it will encourage all athletes to be vaccinated, and on Monday, the president of the French National Olympic Committee warned unvaccinated athletes would face "extremely difficult" conditions in Japan, including a 14-day quarantine.

Vaccinations are not set to start in Japan until late February at the earliest.

Japan's government said Tuesday it still planned to recruit 10,000 medical personnel for the virus-delayed Olympics, despite the heavy strain on the healthcare system caused by a third wave of infections.

Japan's government said Tuesday it still planned to recruit 10,000 medical personnel for the virus-delayed Olympics, despite the heavy strain on the healthcare system caused by a third wave of infections. Opposition politicians grilled the government over the plans in parliament, as medical associations raised the alarm about dwindling capacity. Japan's government and Olympic officials have insisted the Games will open as scheduled this July, despite rising infections at home and abroad, and sinking domestic support. And in parliament on Tuesday, Olympic Minister Seiko Hashimoto said the government was still committed to a plan to secure thousands of medical staff for the Games. "We are trying to secure necessary medical staff of around 10,000, on the premise of asking doctors and nurses that each of them work about five days during the Games period," she said. Games organisers are still discussing the exact medical provisions needed and how to "deal with Covid-19 infections" at the delayed event, she told parliament. Just six months before the huge international event is due to begin, Tokyo and other areas are under a state of emergency to tackle a record spike in Covid-19 cases. Japan has been hit less hard than many other countries, with about 5,000 virus deaths overall, but doctors have warned medical facilities are at risk of collapse -- especially if the Olympics triggers fresh outbreaks. The worsened global virus situation has renewed doubts over the postponed 2020 Olympics, set to start in July, and polls indicate plunging public support in Japan. In December, organisers announced safety measures including regular testing for athletes and an "infection control centre" to deal with positive cases. But the Japan Medical Association's president raised the alarm last week over the possibility of overseas visitors coming for the Games. Toshio Nakagawa said that, under current conditions, it would be "impossible" to admit to hospital any foreign visitor who caught coronavirus at the Games. Around 11,000 athletes from some 200 countries are expected to take part in the Games, but a decision on spectators is not expected before spring. The International Olympic Committee has said it will encourage all athletes to be vaccinated, and on Monday, the president of the French National Olympic Committee warned unvaccinated athletes would face "extremely difficult" conditions in Japan, including a 14-day quarantine. Vaccinations are not set to start in Japan until late February at the earliest.

Tokyo seeks 10,000 medical staff for Olympics despite virus surge

Tennis great Margaret Court insisted Tuesday she would not give back a high-profile Australian honour after a backlash over her views on the LGBTQ community, claiming she "loves" gay and transgender people.

The 78-year-old, the all-time record holder for Grand Slam titles who is now a church pastor, was elevated to a Companion of the Order of Australia on the country's national day Tuesday.

But news of the award -- Australia's highest honour -- saw Victoria state Premier Daniel Andrews slam her "disgraceful" and "hurtful" opinions.

And respected broadcaster Kerry O'Brien rejected his Australia Day gong in protest at the "insensitive" decision to honour Court, while LGBTQ advocate Dr Clara Tuck Meng Soo said she would hand back the medal she received in 2016.

Court has attracted controversy over her stance on sexuality and support of gay conversion therapy, drawing condemnation for saying "tennis is full of lesbians" and describing transgender children as "the work of the devil".

She enraged fellow tennis greats including Billie Jean King and Martina Navratilova when she announced a boycott of national airline Qantas for its CEO's support of same-sex marriage, which Australia introduced in 2017.

"No," Court said, when asked on Melbourne radio station 3AW if she would return the award.

"Because I loved representing my nation. When I got my AO (Officer of the Order of Australia) it was for my community outreach area, where we put out 75 tonnes of food a week.

"This was for my tennis and I think it was a long time coming and I'm very honoured... We did nothing but play for our nation."

Court, one of only five players to win all four Majors in the same year, refused to be drawn on Andrews' stance, while claiming her previous comments had been misrepresented by the media.

"I don't hate anybody, I love people and I love gay people and transgender people. We get them into our community services, we never turn anybody away," she said.

"I can be bullied, I've been bullied a lot in the last few years and I don't mind, that's all right.

"But if I say anything, then I'm a bigot and I'm everything else and I don't like that and I think the press has caused a lot of that."

Court's record of 24 Grand Slam singles titles has stood since 1973. Serena Williams, one behind on 23, will make her latest attempt to equal Court at next month's Australian Open.

Court said she would not be heading to Melbourne Park this year, where one of the show courts is named after her.

"No, I wasn't invited," she said. "With coronavirus, we've been so busy with our community work. I haven't even thought about it."

Tennis great Margaret Court insisted Tuesday she would not give back a high-profile Australian honour after a backlash over her views on the LGBTQ community, claiming she "loves" gay and transgender people.

Tennis great Margaret Court insisted Tuesday she would not give back a high-profile Australian honour after a backlash over her views on the LGBTQ community, claiming she "loves" gay and transgender people. The 78-year-old, the all-time record holder for Grand Slam titles who is now a church pastor, was elevated to a Companion of the Order of Australia on the country's national day Tuesday. But news of the award -- Australia's highest honour -- saw Victoria state Premier Daniel Andrews slam her "disgraceful" and "hurtful" opinions. And respected broadcaster Kerry O'Brien rejected his Australia Day gong in protest at the "insensitive" decision to honour Court, while LGBTQ advocate Dr Clara Tuck Meng Soo said she would hand back the medal she received in 2016. Court has attracted controversy over her stance on sexuality and support of gay conversion therapy, drawing condemnation for saying "tennis is full of lesbians" and describing transgender children as "the work of the devil". She enraged fellow tennis greats including Billie Jean King and Martina Navratilova when she announced a boycott of national airline Qantas for its CEO's support of same-sex marriage, which Australia introduced in 2017. "No," Court said, when asked on Melbourne radio station 3AW if she would return the award. "Because I loved representing my nation. When I got my AO (Officer of the Order of Australia) it was for my community outreach area, where we put out 75 tonnes of food a week. "This was for my tennis and I think it was a long time coming and I'm very honoured... We did nothing but play for our nation." Court, one of only five players to win all four Majors in the same year, refused to be drawn on Andrews' stance, while claiming her previous comments had been misrepresented by the media. "I don't hate anybody, I love people and I love gay people and transgender people. We get them into our community services, we never turn anybody away," she said. "I can be bullied, I've been bullied a lot in the last few years and I don't mind, that's all right. "But if I say anything, then I'm a bigot and I'm everything else and I don't like that and I think the press has caused a lot of that." Court's record of 24 Grand Slam singles titles has stood since 1973. Serena Williams, one behind on 23, will make her latest attempt to equal Court at next month's Australian Open. Court said she would not be heading to Melbourne Park this year, where one of the show courts is named after her. "No, I wasn't invited," she said. "With coronavirus, we've been so busy with our community work. I haven't even thought about it."

Tennis great Court vows to keep Aussie award despite backlash

Fast bowler Kagiso Rabada took two wickets for just eight runs as he led a South African fightback against Pakistan in their first Test in Karachi Tuesday.

Pakistan were in trouble at 33 for four at the close of play, having bowled out the visitors for 220 -- their second-lowest total in the country.

Fourteen wickets fell on the brownish National Stadium pitch, which had been expected to take spin from day one.&nbsp;

South Africa were well placed at 108-2 soon after lunch, but lost their last eight wickets for just 112 runs -- barely managing to overhaul their lowest total in Pakistan, the 214 made at Faisalabad in 1997.&nbsp;

Spinners Yasir Shah (3-54), debutant Nauman Ali (2-38) and pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi (2-49) did the damage.

But then Rabada paid back the hosts with interest, bowling Abid Ali (four) in his third over and then getting debutant Imran Butt (nine) caught at leg-slip off a rising delivery.

He now has 199 wickets from 44 Tests.

Babar Azam, leading Pakistan for the first time in a Test, fell lbw to spinner Keshav Maharaj for seven before night watchman Shaheen was bowled by Anrich Nortje without scoring.&nbsp;

At the close, Azhar Ali and Fawad Alam were unbeaten on five each - with Pakistan trailing by 187 runs with six wickets intact.

Earlier, opener Dean Elgar top-scored for South Africa with 58, while George Linde (35) and Rabada (21 not out) were other notable contributors.

While lamenting his side's poor batting, Elgar said South Africa now had the upper hand.

"I would not have said that after our batting, but then we fought back by taking wickets," he said.

"Knowing that this pitch will get tougher, and knowing that we have good spinners, I am confident that we can get further ahead."

Elgar struck his 16th Test half-century -- laced with nine boundaries -- before he edged Nauman into the hands of Azam at slip.

Elgar and Faf du Plessis (23) had steadied the innings during their 45-run stand for the third wicket after Aiden Markram (13) and Rassie van der Dussen (17) were dismissed in the first session.

Both sides entered the Test with two spinners and three pace bowlers.

The two-match series marks the first tour by South Africa to Pakistan in 14 years, a positive step for the revival of international cricket in the host country.

A deadly attack on Sri Lanka's team in 2009 froze international tours to Pakistan before their gradual resumption in recent years.

Fast bowler Kagiso Rabada took two wickets for just eight runs as he led a South African fightback against Pakistan in their first Test in Karachi Tuesday. Pakistan were in trouble at 33 for four at the close of play, having bowled out the visitors for 220 -- their second-lowest total in the country.

Fast bowler Kagiso Rabada took two wickets for just eight runs as he led a South African fightback against Pakistan in their first Test in Karachi Tuesday. Pakistan were in trouble at 33 for four at the close of play, having bowled out the visitors for 220 -- their second-lowest total in the country. Fourteen wickets fell on the brownish National Stadium pitch, which had been expected to take spin from day one. South Africa were well placed at 108-2 soon after lunch, but lost their last eight wickets for just 112 runs -- barely managing to overhaul their lowest total in Pakistan, the 214 made at Faisalabad in 1997. Spinners Yasir Shah (3-54), debutant Nauman Ali (2-38) and pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi (2-49) did the damage. But then Rabada paid back the hosts with interest, bowling Abid Ali (four) in his third over and then getting debutant Imran Butt (nine) caught at leg-slip off a rising delivery. He now has 199 wickets from 44 Tests. Babar Azam, leading Pakistan for the first time in a Test, fell lbw to spinner Keshav Maharaj for seven before night watchman Shaheen was bowled by Anrich Nortje without scoring. At the close, Azhar Ali and Fawad Alam were unbeaten on five each - with Pakistan trailing by 187 runs with six wickets intact. Earlier, opener Dean Elgar top-scored for South Africa with 58, while George Linde (35) and Rabada (21 not out) were other notable contributors. While lamenting his side's poor batting, Elgar said South Africa now had the upper hand. "I would not have said that after our batting, but then we fought back by taking wickets," he said. "Knowing that this pitch will get tougher, and knowing that we have good spinners, I am confident that we can get further ahead." Elgar struck his 16th Test half-century -- laced with nine boundaries -- before he edged Nauman into the hands of Azam at slip. Elgar and Faf du Plessis (23) had steadied the innings during their 45-run stand for the third wicket after Aiden Markram (13) and Rassie van der Dussen (17) were dismissed in the first session. Both sides entered the Test with two spinners and three pace bowlers. The two-match series marks the first tour by South Africa to Pakistan in 14 years, a positive step for the revival of international cricket in the host country. A deadly attack on Sri Lanka's team in 2009 froze international tours to Pakistan before their gradual resumption in recent years.

Pakistan in trouble as Rabada leads South Africa fightback

Barcelona have topped the Deloitte Football Money League after the financial performances of the highest revenue-generating clubs were charted for the 2019-20 season. While Barca sit atop the&nbsp;list, the likes of Real Madrid and Bayern Munich complete the top three.&nbsp;

For the first time since 2013, Manchester United dropped out of the top three of the Deloitte Football Money League while Liverpool's on-pitch success helped them be in the top five for the first time since 2001-02 season.&nbsp;

Manchester City continue to remain in the sixth spot with Premier League clubs Tottenham Hotspur (9), Arsenal (11) and Everton (17) also placed in the top 20.&nbsp;

Given the hardships amid COVID-19 pandemic, the top 20 clubs witnessed a revenue decline of 12 per cent as compared to the 2018-19 season. The sharp decline comes due to a drop in broadcast revenue and fall in matchday revenue.&nbsp;

<img alt="Deloitte" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4521844f-90a0-4723-93ee-2bb615100f16" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/deloitte-uk-dfml21-info-slide1.jpg" />

Tim Bridge, director of Deloitte Sports Business Group, said that the "digital model" helped Liverpool sit on the fifth spot besides their Premier League success.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/europes-top-clubs-face-two-billion-euro-coronavirus-hit-report-359468" hreflang="en">Europe's top clubs face two billion euro coronavirus hit - report</a>

"The on-pitch success is a massive factor," Bridge&nbsp;told Sky Sports. "Building on winning the Champions League and then taking the Premier League crown for the first time has had a significant impact. They have moved significantly towards a more digital model, and have been doing for a number of years.&nbsp;

"That has benefitted them in comparison to others during the pandemic because they are able to engage with their fans in a&nbsp;way others&nbsp;probably had to pay catch-up."&nbsp;

While Liverpool played both their UEFA Champions League Round of 16 matches in one financial year, Manchester City were forced to play the fixtures in two financial years due to COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

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<div style="margin-bottom:5px"><a href="//www.slideshare.net/deloitteuk/testing-times-football-money-league-241824944" target="_blank" title="Testing Times: Football Money League">Testing Times: Football Money League</a> from <a href="https://www.slideshare.net/deloitteuk" target="_blank">Deloitte UK</a></div>
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"But with those placings, take a little bit of care because with the timings of the fixtures they were able to generate more revenue ahead of Manchester City," said Bridge.&nbsp;

"Had timings been a little bit different, those rankings may have been different."&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-they-wont-they-key-questions-for-troubled-tokyo-olympics-359408" hreflang="en">Will they, won't they? Key questions for troubled Tokyo Olympics</a>

Whereas Manchester United had largest year-on-year decline among the top 20 clubs in the Deloitte Football Money League. Bridge&nbsp;emphasised&nbsp;that the sharp drop comes due to their lack of Champions League football.&nbsp;

Bridge said: "The reason for the decrease is predominantly driven by the pandemic, as you can imagine Manchester United with a huge fanbase generate significant amounts of revenue every time they play at Old Trafford.&nbsp;

"They are going to be impacted in a more significant way than many other clubs. Of course, last year they didn't have Champions League football either, so the revenue differential from competing in the Europa League compared to the Champions League had a significant impact on the numbers.&nbsp;

"But caution is needed. With Bayern Munich moving ahead of them, they were able to complete their domestic season in the timeframe, so the numbers for Bayern represent a full year of domestic football, whereas for United they are curtailed."&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Barcelona have topped the Deloitte Football Money League after the financial performances of the highest revenue-generating clubs were charted for the 2019-20 season.

Barcelona have topped the Deloitte Football Money League after the financial performances of the highest revenue-generating clubs were charted for the 2019-20 season. While Barca sit atop the list, the likes of Real Madrid and Bayern Munich complete the top three. For the first time since 2013, Manchester United dropped out of the top three of the Deloitte Football Money League while Liverpool's on-pitch success helped them be in the top five for the first time since 2001-02 season. Manchester City continue to remain in the sixth spot with Premier League clubs Tottenham Hotspur (9), Arsenal (11) and Everton (17) also placed in the top 20. Given the hardships amid COVID-19 pandemic, the top 20 clubs witnessed a revenue decline of 12 per cent as compared to the 2018-19 season. The sharp decline comes due to a drop in broadcast revenue and fall in matchday revenue. Tim Bridge, director of Deloitte Sports Business Group, said that the "digital model" helped Liverpool sit on the fifth spot besides their Premier League success. ALSO READ: Europe's top clubs face two billion euro coronavirus hit - report "The on-pitch success is a massive factor," Bridge told Sky Sports. "Building on winning the Champions League and then taking the Premier League crown for the first time has had a significant impact. They have moved significantly towards a more digital model, and have been doing for a number of years. "That has benefitted them in comparison to others during the pandemic because they are able to engage with their fans in a way others probably had to pay catch-up." While Liverpool played both their UEFA Champions League Round of 16 matches in one financial year, Manchester City were forced to play the fixtures in two financial years due to COVID-19 pandemic. Testing Times: Football Money League from Deloitte UK × "But with those placings, take a little bit of care because with the timings of the fixtures they were able to generate more revenue ahead of Manchester City," said Bridge. "Had timings been a little bit different, those rankings may have been different." ALSO READ: Will they, won't they? Key questions for troubled Tokyo Olympics Whereas Manchester United had largest year-on-year decline among the top 20 clubs in the Deloitte Football Money League. Bridge emphasised that the sharp drop comes due to their lack of Champions League football. Bridge said: "The reason for the decrease is predominantly driven by the pandemic, as you can imagine Manchester United with a huge fanbase generate significant amounts of revenue every time they play at Old Trafford. "They are going to be impacted in a more significant way than many other clubs. Of course, last year they didn't have Champions League football either, so the revenue differential from competing in the Europa League compared to the Champions League had a significant impact on the numbers. "But caution is needed. With Bayern Munich moving ahead of them, they were able to complete their domestic season in the timeframe, so the numbers for Bayern represent a full year of domestic football, whereas for United they are curtailed."

Barcelona top Deloitte Football Money League, Manchester United witness biggest drop

Ajinkya Rahane has been lauded for his leadership abilities following India's historic triumph against Australia but the Indian middle-order batsman made it clear that&nbsp;Virat Kohli is the undisputed leader of the Indian team while adding he is happy to fill in when required.&nbsp;

Rahane, who led the Indian team in the final three Tests against Australia, will be back being the deputy to Kohli during India's four-match Test series against England, starting on February 5.&nbsp;

"Nothing changes. Virat was and will always be the captain of the Test team and I am his deputy. When he was absent it was my duty to lead the side and my responsibility to give my best for Team India's success," Rahane, who was on his way to Chennai, told PTI in an exclusive interview.&nbsp;

For the Indian Test vice-captain, the priority is to have the ability to perform the captaincy role to perfection when needed.

"It's&nbsp;not the matter of merely being a captain. How you perform the&nbsp;captain's&nbsp;role is&nbsp;what's&nbsp;more important. So&nbsp;far,&nbsp;I have been successful. Hopefully, in future also, I will try to give&nbsp;these kinds of results&nbsp;for my team," said the man, who has led his country to four wins in five Tests.&nbsp;

Rahane, while reflecting on his relationship with Kohli, said they have always shared a good bonding with each other as he said their relationship has been based on transparency and mutual respect.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/joe-root-can-break-sachin-tendulkars-all-time-record-feels-geoffrey-boycott-359452" hreflang="en">Joe Root can break Sachin Tendulkar's all-time record, feels Geoffrey Boycott</a>

"Virat and I have always shared a good bonding with each other. He has time and again praised my batting. Both of us played memorable knocks for our team in India and overseas conditions. It only helped that Virat comes at No.4 and myself at No.5. We have had a lot of partnerships," the 32-year-old said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"We have always backed each&nbsp;other's&nbsp;game. When we are at the crease, we discuss threadbare about&nbsp;opposition's&nbsp;bowling. We caution each other whenever one of us plays a rash shot."&nbsp;

And how does&nbsp;Rahane&nbsp;find Kohli as a captain?&nbsp;

"Virat is a sharp captain. He takes good on-field decisions. Whenever the spinners are in operation, he is banking on me and he believes that taking those catches at slips off (Ravichandran) Ashwin and (Ravindra) Jadeja is one of my core competence areas.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bizarre-start-of-afghanistan-vs-ireland-3rd-odi-delayed-due-to-highway-closure-359433" hreflang="en">Bizarre! Start of Afghanistan vs Ireland 3rd ODI delayed due to highway closure</a>

"Virat expects a lot from me and I try and ensure not to let him down," said Rahane, who is 13&nbsp;short&nbsp;of a milestone of 100 catches in Test matches as an outfielder.&nbsp;

While fans and pundits heaped praise on Rahane – the leader – the elegant middle-order batsman downplayed his role by saying that he believes a captain is as good as his team. He further said that the complete credit of India's victory Down Under goes to the players.&nbsp;

"With regards to leadership, I can only say that it varies from person to person. A captain is as good as his team. When you win a match or a series,&nbsp;it's&nbsp;always a collective effort and not because of singular&nbsp;man's&nbsp;contribution.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"It's&nbsp;your teammates only, who make you a good leader. The complete credit of this series win belongs to my team," concluded the reticent cricketer.&nbsp;

(With PTI inputs)&nbsp;

Ajinkya Rahane has been lauded for his leadership abilities following India's historic triumph against Australia but the Indian middle-order batsman made it clear that Virat Kohli is the undisputed leader of the Indian team while adding he is happy to fill in when required.

Ajinkya Rahane has been lauded for his leadership abilities following India's historic triumph against Australia but the Indian middle-order batsman made it clear that Virat Kohli is the undisputed leader of the Indian team while adding he is happy to fill in when required. Rahane, who led the Indian team in the final three Tests against Australia, will be back being the deputy to Kohli during India's four-match Test series against England, starting on February 5. "Nothing changes. Virat was and will always be the captain of the Test team and I am his deputy. When he was absent it was my duty to lead the side and my responsibility to give my best for Team India's success," Rahane, who was on his way to Chennai, told PTI in an exclusive interview. For the Indian Test vice-captain, the priority is to have the ability to perform the captaincy role to perfection when needed. "It's not the matter of merely being a captain. How you perform the captain's role is what's more important. So far, I have been successful. Hopefully, in future also, I will try to give these kinds of results for my team," said the man, who has led his country to four wins in five Tests. Rahane, while reflecting on his relationship with Kohli, said they have always shared a good bonding with each other as he said their relationship has been based on transparency and mutual respect. ALSO READ:Joe Root can break Sachin Tendulkar's all-time record, feels Geoffrey Boycott "Virat and I have always shared a good bonding with each other. He has time and again praised my batting. Both of us played memorable knocks for our team in India and overseas conditions. It only helped that Virat comes at No.4 and myself at No.5. We have had a lot of partnerships," the 32-year-old said. "We have always backed each other's game. When we are at the crease, we discuss threadbare about opposition's bowling. We caution each other whenever one of us plays a rash shot." And how does Rahane find Kohli as a captain? "Virat is a sharp captain. He takes good on-field decisions. Whenever the spinners are in operation, he is banking on me and he believes that taking those catches at slips off (Ravichandran) Ashwin and (Ravindra) Jadeja is one of my core competence areas. ALSO READ: Bizarre! Start of Afghanistan vs Ireland 3rd ODI delayed due to highway closure "Virat expects a lot from me and I try and ensure not to let him down," said Rahane, who is 13 short of a milestone of 100 catches in Test matches as an outfielder. While fans and pundits heaped praise on Rahane – the leader – the elegant middle-order batsman downplayed his role by saying that he believes a captain is as good as his team. He further said that the complete credit of India's victory Down Under goes to the players. "With regards to leadership, I can only say that it varies from person to person. A captain is as good as his team. When you win a match or a series, it's always a collective effort and not because of singular man's contribution. "It's your teammates only, who make you a good leader. The complete credit of this series win belongs to my team," concluded the reticent cricketer. (With PTI inputs)

Ajinkya Rahane reacts to captaincy debate ahead of England series

Florida's chief financial officer on Monday offered to host the Olympic Games in the state amid speculations that the current hosts Japan may back out.&nbsp;

Jimmy Patronis sent a letter to IOC head Thomas Bach in a bid&nbsp;"to encourage you to consider relocating the 2021 Olympics from Tokyo, Japan to the United States of America, and more specifically to Florida."&nbsp;

"With media reports of leaders in Japan 'privately' concluding that they are too concerned about the pandemic for the 2021 Olympics to take place, there is still time to deploy a site selection team to Florida," he said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-they-wont-they-key-questions-for-troubled-tokyo-olympics-359408" hreflang="en">Will they, won't they? Key questions for troubled Tokyo Olympics</a>

The letter gave the examples of the strength of state's vaccination roll-out, economic re-opening and sports events it has hosted amid the pandemic while stating the theme parks including Disney World&nbsp;are open for business. The letter was signed by Patronis and posted online.&nbsp;

However, Florida has struggled massively in the COVID-19 pandemic with over 25,000&nbsp;recorded in the state. The US death toll continues to near the 4,20,000 mark.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Whatever precautions are required let's figure it out and get it done," Patronis said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-seeks-10000-medical-staff-for-olympics-despite-virus-surge-359406" hreflang="en">Tokyo seeks 10,000 medical staff for Olympics despite virus surge</a>

&nbsp;On Friday, parties responsible for&nbsp;organising&nbsp;the Tokyo Games, originally scheduled for 2019 but delayed by a year due to the pandemic – said they would be going ahead with the scheduled dates of July 23 until August 8.&nbsp;

"I am determined to realize a safe and secure Tokyo Games as proof that mankind will have overcome the virus," said Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga.&nbsp;

Florida's chief financial officer on Monday offered to host the Olympic Games in the state amid speculations that the current hosts Japan may back out. Jimmy Patronis sent a letter to IOC head Thomas Bach in a bid "to encourage you to consider relocating the 2021 Olympics from Tokyo, Japan to the United States of America, and more specifically to Florida.

Florida's chief financial officer on Monday offered to host the Olympic Games in the state amid speculations that the current hosts Japan may back out. Jimmy Patronis sent a letter to IOC head Thomas Bach in a bid "to encourage you to consider relocating the 2021 Olympics from Tokyo, Japan to the United States of America, and more specifically to Florida." "With media reports of leaders in Japan 'privately' concluding that they are too concerned about the pandemic for the 2021 Olympics to take place, there is still time to deploy a site selection team to Florida," he said. ALSO READ: Will they, won't they? Key questions for troubled Tokyo Olympics The letter gave the examples of the strength of state's vaccination roll-out, economic re-opening and sports events it has hosted amid the pandemic while stating the theme parks including Disney World are open for business. The letter was signed by Patronis and posted online. However, Florida has struggled massively in the COVID-19 pandemic with over 25,000 recorded in the state. The US death toll continues to near the 4,20,000 mark. "Whatever precautions are required let's figure it out and get it done," Patronis said. ALSO READ: Tokyo seeks 10,000 medical staff for Olympics despite virus surge On Friday, parties responsible for organising the Tokyo Games, originally scheduled for 2019 but delayed by a year due to the pandemic – said they would be going ahead with the scheduled dates of July 23 until August 8. "I am determined to realize a safe and secure Tokyo Games as proof that mankind will have overcome the virus," said Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga.

Florida offers to host Olympics if Tokyo backs out

England cricket legend Geoffery Boycott has banked on Joe Root to surpass former India batsman&nbsp;Sachin&nbsp;Tendulkar's all-time record of scoring most runs in Test cricket. Boycott&nbsp;feels Root has all the potential to play Test cricket for a long time while also surpassing the runs scored by Tendulkar in the longest format of the game.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Boycott's comments come after Root incredibly led England to a 2-0 Test series win against Sri Lanka while scoring an impressive 426 runs in four innings at an average of 106.50 including scores of 228 and 186. Root also became England's fourth-highest Test run-scorer.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The former England batsman Boycott feel that Root has the ability to represent England for 200 Tests and can go on to score more than 15,921 runs - Tendulkar's record in Test&nbsp;cricket.&nbsp;

"Forget just scoring more Test runs for England than David Gower, Kevin Pietersen and myself. Joe Root has the potential to play 200 Tests and score more runs than even&nbsp;Sachin&nbsp;Tendulkar," Boycott wrote in a column for The Telegraph.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bizarre-start-of-afghanistan-vs-ireland-3rd-odi-delayed-due-to-highway-closure-359433" hreflang="en">Bizarre! Start of Afghanistan vs Ireland 3rd ODI delayed due to highway closure</a>

"Root is only 30. He has played 99 Tests and scored 8249 runs already. As long as he does not suffer serious injury there is no reason why he cannot beat Tendulkar’s all-time record of 15,921," Boycott added.&nbsp;

Root has already surpassed the likes of Kevin Pietersen and David Gower in the list of England's top run-scorers in Test cricket. Root&nbsp;is now behind Alastair Cook (12472), Graham Gooch (8900), and Alec Stewart (8463).&nbsp;He&nbsp;currently has 8249 runs to his name in 99 Tests at an average of 49.39 and is 26th on the list of highest Test run-getters of all-time.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/how-are-virat-kohli-ajinkya-rahane-different-as-captains-r-ashwin-gives-his-take-359178" hreflang="en">How are Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane different as captains? R Ashwin gives his take</a>

"His contemporaries, such as Virat Kohli, Steve Smith and Kane Williamson, are wonderful players as well who could also score that many runs. We should enjoy Root and only judge him alongside those guys, not great names of the past because every player is a product of their environment," wrote Boycott.&nbsp;

The England Test skipper will be seen next in action when England take on India in a full-fledged series starting from February 5. England and India will play four Tests, five T20Is and three ODIs.&nbsp;

England cricket legend Geoffery Boycott has banked on Joe Root to surpass former India batsman Sachin Tendulkar's all-time record of scoring most runs in Test cricket.

England cricket legend Geoffery Boycott has banked on Joe Root to surpass former India batsman Sachin Tendulkar's all-time record of scoring most runs in Test cricket. Boycott feels Root has all the potential to play Test cricket for a long time while also surpassing the runs scored by Tendulkar in the longest format of the game. Boycott's comments come after Root incredibly led England to a 2-0 Test series win against Sri Lanka while scoring an impressive 426 runs in four innings at an average of 106.50 including scores of 228 and 186. Root also became England's fourth-highest Test run-scorer. The former England batsman Boycott feel that Root has the ability to represent England for 200 Tests and can go on to score more than 15,921 runs - Tendulkar's record in Test cricket. "Forget just scoring more Test runs for England than David Gower, Kevin Pietersen and myself. Joe Root has the potential to play 200 Tests and score more runs than even Sachin Tendulkar," Boycott wrote in a column for The Telegraph. ALSO READ: Bizarre! Start of Afghanistan vs Ireland 3rd ODI delayed due to highway closure "Root is only 30. He has played 99 Tests and scored 8249 runs already. As long as he does not suffer serious injury there is no reason why he cannot beat Tendulkar’s all-time record of 15,921," Boycott added. Root has already surpassed the likes of Kevin Pietersen and David Gower in the list of England's top run-scorers in Test cricket. Root is now behind Alastair Cook (12472), Graham Gooch (8900), and Alec Stewart (8463). He currently has 8249 runs to his name in 99 Tests at an average of 49.39 and is 26th on the list of highest Test run-getters of all-time. ALSO READ: How are Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane different as captains? R Ashwin gives his take "His contemporaries, such as Virat Kohli, Steve Smith and Kane Williamson, are wonderful players as well who could also score that many runs. We should enjoy Root and only judge him alongside those guys, not great names of the past because every player is a product of their environment," wrote Boycott. The England Test skipper will be seen next in action when England take on India in a full-fledged series starting from February 5. England and India will play four Tests, five T20Is and three ODIs.

Joe Root can break Sachin Tendulkar's all-time record, feels Geoffrey Boycott

Reigning world champion PV Sindhu has been handed a tough draw at Thailand's World Tour Finals on Tuesday as the Indian star was pitted against world number one Tai Tzu-ying&nbsp;and home&nbsp;favourite&nbsp;Ratchanok&nbsp;Intanon.&nbsp;

Olympic silver&nbsp;medalist Sindhu was grouped against former world champion&nbsp;Ratchanok&nbsp;and Tai along with Thailand's&nbsp;Ponrpawee&nbsp;Chochuwong&nbsp;for the round-robin stage of the tournament in Bangkok, which is being played&nbsp;inside a bio-secure bubble.&nbsp;

The delayed 2020 season finale, scheduled to start from Wednesday, is the third behind-closed-doors event in three weeks in the Thai capital as badminton resumed after months owing to the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/florida-offers-to-host-olympics-if-tokyo-backs-out-359423" hreflang="en">Florida offers to host Olympics if Tokyo backs out</a>

Whereas Spanish top-seed&nbsp;Carolina&nbsp;Marin, who is also looking to bag a hat-trick of wins in Bangkok, is set to take on South Korean teen sensation An&nbsp;Se-young, Canada's Michelle Li and Russia's Evgeniya&nbsp;Kosetskaya&nbsp;in Group A.&nbsp;

In the men's singles event, Denmark's Viktor Axelsen, unbeaten over the past fortnight, will take on Taiwan's world number two Chou Tien-Chen, Malaysia's Lee&nbsp;Zii&nbsp;Jia and Indonesia's Anthony&nbsp;Ginting.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-they-wont-they-key-questions-for-troubled-tokyo-olympics-359408" hreflang="en">Will they, won't they? Key questions for troubled Tokyo Olympics</a>

Men's champions Kento Momota had tested positive for the dreaded virus just before the tournament started, forcing him to withdraw along with the entire Japanese team. While China's team including women's title-holder Chen Yufei were unable to travel due to the country's strict COVID-19 rules.&nbsp;

Despite the bio-secure bubble and strict protocols, four people inside the Bangkok ''bubble'' have tested positive for coronavirus including two players who were forced to withdraw from the marquee event.&nbsp;

Reigning world champion PV Sindhu has been handed a tough draw at Thailand's World Tour Finals on Tuesday as the Indian star was pitted against world number one Tai Tzu-ying and home favourite Ratchanok Intanon.

Reigning world champion PV Sindhu has been handed a tough draw at Thailand's World Tour Finals on Tuesday as the Indian star was pitted against world number one Tai Tzu-ying and home favourite Ratchanok Intanon. Olympic silver medalist Sindhu was grouped against former world champion Ratchanok and Tai along with Thailand's Ponrpawee Chochuwong for the round-robin stage of the tournament in Bangkok, which is being played inside a bio-secure bubble. The delayed 2020 season finale, scheduled to start from Wednesday, is the third behind-closed-doors event in three weeks in the Thai capital as badminton resumed after months owing to the COVID-19 pandemic. ALSO READ: Florida offers to host Olympics if Tokyo backs out Whereas Spanish top-seed Carolina Marin, who is also looking to bag a hat-trick of wins in Bangkok, is set to take on South Korean teen sensation An Se-young, Canada's Michelle Li and Russia's Evgeniya Kosetskaya in Group A. In the men's singles event, Denmark's Viktor Axelsen, unbeaten over the past fortnight, will take on Taiwan's world number two Chou Tien-Chen, Malaysia's Lee Zii Jia and Indonesia's Anthony Ginting. ALSO READ: Will they, won't they? Key questions for troubled Tokyo Olympics Men's champions Kento Momota had tested positive for the dreaded virus just before the tournament started, forcing him to withdraw along with the entire Japanese team. While China's team including women's title-holder Chen Yufei were unable to travel due to the country's strict COVID-19 rules. Despite the bio-secure bubble and strict protocols, four people inside the Bangkok ''bubble'' have tested positive for coronavirus including two players who were forced to withdraw from the marquee event.

World Tour Finals: PV Sindhu handed a tough draw, to face Tai and Intanon

The start of the third ODI between Afghanistan and Ireland at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday witnessed a delay due to bizarre circumstances with fog affecting transportation in Abu Dhabi.&nbsp;Cricket world has witnessed matches being halted due to interruption by bees, sun interruptions, smog halting proceedings but Tuesday's incident of fog resulting in highway closure, which directly affected the match being delayed tops the chart.&nbsp;

The toss was scheduled for 9:30 am local time originally but was delayed by an hour and 15 minutes as the teams couldn't reach the venue on time as the fog in certain areas of Abu Dhabi caused a highway closure. The move affected the transportation which caused problems for both the teams as they failed to reach the stadium on time, resulting in the delayed start.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Afghanistan Cricket Board tweeted: "The start of play for the third ODI of #KardanUniversityCup is delayed due to fog in certain areas of Abu Dhabi affecting the transportation in the city."&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/security-covid-19-restrictions-make-pakistans-tour-tough-says-south-africas-mark-boucher-359418" hreflang="en">Security, COVID-19 restrictions make Pakistan's tour tough, says South Africa's Mark Boucher</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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The start of play for the third ODI of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KardanUniversityCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KardanUniversityCup</a> is delayed due to fog in certain areas of Abu Dhabi affecting the transportation in the city.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AFGvIRE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AFGvIRE</a>
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Meanwhile, Afghanistan have already won the series by coming out victorious in the first two matches of the three-ODI series, by 16 runs and seven wickets respectively.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-they-wont-they-key-questions-for-troubled-tokyo-olympics-359408" hreflang="en">Will they, won't they? Key questions for troubled Tokyo Olympics</a>

After both the teams reached the stadium, the match was started. Ireland won the toss and opted to bowl first. Openers Javed Ahmadi and&nbsp;Rahmanullah&nbsp;Gurbaz gave Afghanistan a steady start but Craig Young dismissed both the openers soon while also scalping the wicket of Rahmat Shah. Soon after, Andy&nbsp;McBrine&nbsp;dismissed&nbsp;Hashmatullah&nbsp;Shahidi to put pressure on Afghanistan.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The start of the third ODI between Afghanistan and Ireland at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday witnessed a delay due to bizarre circumstances with fog affecting transportation in Abu Dhabi.

The start of the third ODI between Afghanistan and Ireland at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday witnessed a delay due to bizarre circumstances with fog affecting transportation in Abu Dhabi. Cricket world has witnessed matches being halted due to interruption by bees, sun interruptions, smog halting proceedings but Tuesday's incident of fog resulting in highway closure, which directly affected the match being delayed tops the chart. The toss was scheduled for 9:30 am local time originally but was delayed by an hour and 15 minutes as the teams couldn't reach the venue on time as the fog in certain areas of Abu Dhabi caused a highway closure. The move affected the transportation which caused problems for both the teams as they failed to reach the stadium on time, resulting in the delayed start. Afghanistan Cricket Board tweeted: "The start of play for the third ODI of #KardanUniversityCup is delayed due to fog in certain areas of Abu Dhabi affecting the transportation in the city." ALSO READ: Security, COVID-19 restrictions make Pakistan's tour tough, says South Africa's Mark Boucher The start of play for the third ODI of #KardanUniversityCup is delayed due to fog in certain areas of Abu Dhabi affecting the transportation in the city.#AFGvIRE — Afghanistan Cricket Board (@ACBofficials) January 26, 2021 × Meanwhile, Afghanistan have already won the series by coming out victorious in the first two matches of the three-ODI series, by 16 runs and seven wickets respectively. ALSO READ: Will they, won't they? Key questions for troubled Tokyo Olympics After both the teams reached the stadium, the match was started. Ireland won the toss and opted to bowl first. Openers Javed Ahmadi and Rahmanullah Gurbaz gave Afghanistan a steady start but Craig Young dismissed both the openers soon while also scalping the wicket of Rahmat Shah. Soon after, Andy McBrine dismissed Hashmatullah Shahidi to put pressure on Afghanistan.

Bizarre! Start of Afghanistan vs Ireland 3rd ODI delayed due to highway closure

Pakistan and South Africa are locking horns in the first Test of the two-match series at the National Stadium in Karachi with the Proteas visiting the country for the first time in 14 years, after international cricket in Pakistan was suspended due to terror attacks on the Sri Lankan side in 2009.&nbsp;

While South Africa are batting first in the first Test against Pakistan, head coach Mark Boucher said that coronavirus restrictions and strict security protocols will make the tour challenging for South Africa.&nbsp;

While Pakistan have hosted several limited-overs series in the previous six years, Test cricket resumed in the country in late 2019.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/can-england-upset-team-india-in-test-series-mahela-jayawardene-opines-359264" hreflang="en">Can England upset Team India in Test series? Mahela Jayawardene opines</a>

"It is challenging from a management perspective – especially when you are in a place like Pakistan where you can't get outside," Boucher told a virtual press conference.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A massive security detail made up of police and paramilitary personnel is guarding the team at their hotel and the stadium, forcing the squad to spend a lot of time in their rooms.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Personally, I don't think it's sustainable from a financial and just a headspace point of view for players, for staff, for management," Boucher said of the coronavirus restrictions.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-world-test-championship-final-postponed-new-dates-revealed-359240" hreflang="en">ICC World Test Championship final postponed, new dates revealed!</a>

"I think it's been necessary to get the game of cricket up and running. I think everyone understands that. But it doesn't make it easier."&nbsp;

Boucher, as a player, had toured Pakistan in 1997, 2003 and 2007 and ended up with a world record 555 dismissals as a wicket-keeper in 147 Tests.&nbsp;

Notably, most of the Proteas elite players will be back home after the completion of the Test series in Rawalpindi in a bid to prepare for the upcoming series against Australia whereas a second-string side will play the&nbsp;three-match&nbsp;T20I series against Pakistan starting from February 11 in Lahore.&nbsp;

Pakistan and South Africa are locking horns in the first Test of the two-match series at the National Stadium in Karachi with the Proteas visiting the country for the first time in 14 years, after international cricket in Pakistan was suspended due to terror attacks on the Sri Lankan side in 2009.

Pakistan and South Africa are locking horns in the first Test of the two-match series at the National Stadium in Karachi with the Proteas visiting the country for the first time in 14 years, after international cricket in Pakistan was suspended due to terror attacks on the Sri Lankan side in 2009. While South Africa are batting first in the first Test against Pakistan, head coach Mark Boucher said that coronavirus restrictions and strict security protocols will make the tour challenging for South Africa. While Pakistan have hosted several limited-overs series in the previous six years, Test cricket resumed in the country in late 2019. ALSO READ: Can England upset Team India in Test series? Mahela Jayawardene opines "It is challenging from a management perspective – especially when you are in a place like Pakistan where you can't get outside," Boucher told a virtual press conference. A massive security detail made up of police and paramilitary personnel is guarding the team at their hotel and the stadium, forcing the squad to spend a lot of time in their rooms. "Personally, I don't think it's sustainable from a financial and just a headspace point of view for players, for staff, for management," Boucher said of the coronavirus restrictions. ALSO READ: ICC World Test Championship final postponed, new dates revealed! "I think it's been necessary to get the game of cricket up and running. I think everyone understands that. But it doesn't make it easier." Boucher, as a player, had toured Pakistan in 1997, 2003 and 2007 and ended up with a world record 555 dismissals as a wicket-keeper in 147 Tests. Notably, most of the Proteas elite players will be back home after the completion of the Test series in Rawalpindi in a bid to prepare for the upcoming series against Australia whereas a second-string side will play the three-match T20I series against Pakistan starting from February 11 in Lahore.

Security, COVID-19 restrictions make Pakistan's tour tough, says South Africa's Mark Boucher

Tom Brady and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers made NFL history on Sunday to set up a dream home&nbsp;Super&nbsp;Bowl&nbsp;against Patrick Mahomes and the defending champion Kansas City Chiefs.

Brady, the 43-year-old widely regarded as the greatest quarterback in the history of the sport, led the Buccaneers to a 31-26 upset of the top-seeded Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field.

It means the Buccaneers will become the first team in NFL history to play in a&nbsp;Super&nbsp;Bowl&nbsp;at their own arena, with the February 7 showpiece taking place at the Raymond James Stadium in Tampa.

Brady threw for three touchdowns and 280 yards as he punched his ticket to an incredible 10th&nbsp;Super&nbsp;Bowl&nbsp;appearance, 19 years after his playing in his first championship game with the New England Patriots in 2002.

"It's been a long process for the whole team, and today was just a great team effort," Brady said afterwards.

The victory represented a stunning vindication of Brady's decision to leave the Patriots in March last year after a glittering two-decade career in New England that yielded six&nbsp;Super&nbsp;Bowl&nbsp;wins.

"It's been a great journey thus far," Brady said. "We put the work in. I just made a decision. I've loved coming to work every day with this group of guys. I'm just so proud of this whole team."

Brady had helped the Bucs race into a 28-10 lead early in the second half after touchdowns from Mike Evans, Leonard Fournette, Scotty Miller and Cameron Brate as the Packers offense failed to fire.

<h2>- 'This one stings' -</h2>

Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers -- bidding to reach a second&nbsp;Super&nbsp;Bowl&nbsp;-- then led a stirring second half fightback with touchdowns from Robert Tonyan and Davante Adams that got the score to 28-23.

But the Packers' challenge fizzled after they controversially opted to kick a field goal late in the fourth quarter instead of going for a potentially game-tying touchdown.

"This one definitely stings and is going to for a long time, especially the way it played out and the chances we had," a downcast Rodgers said.

"The finality of it all, kind of hits you like a ton of bricks. It's a gutting feeling in your stomach."

Packers head coach Matt LaFleur later defended the decision to kick a field goal, saying he felt the Green Bay defense could win the ball back.

"The way our defense was playing it felt like it was the right decision," LaFleur said. "It just didn't work out."

<h2>- Chiefs romp -</h2>

While the Buccaneers-Packers game went to the wire, there was no such drama in Kansas City, where the Chiefs outclassed the Buffalo Bills 38-24 to reach the&nbsp;Super&nbsp;Bowl&nbsp;for a second straight year.

"It was just trusting each other," Chiefs quarterback Mahomes said.

"The thing about this team is that we trust each other, and every time we go on the field we give it everything we have.&nbsp;

"But the job's not finished -- we're going to Tampa and we're going to try and run it back.

"We've just got to go to Tampa and be ourselves. I trust my guys over anybody."&nbsp;

The Bills started brightly with a field goal and a touchdown from Dawson Knox to take a 9-0 lead.

But once the Chiefs' offense cranked into life, there was only going to be one winner, with Mahomes showing no ill-effects from the concussion that knocked him out of last week's divisional round win over Cleveland.

The Chiefs rattled off 21 unanswered points with touchdowns from Mecole Hardman, Darrel Williams and Clyde Edwards-Helaire to take a 21-12 lead at half-time.

Mahomes produced a cheeky underarm flipped pass to tight end Travis Kelce in the third quarter to help make it 31-15.

Kelce then added his second touchdown of the game midway through the fourth quarter to make it 38-15.

The Bills rallied with a touchdown from Isaiah McKenzie to cut the Chiefs lead to 38-21 and then recovered an onside kick to raise hopes of an improbable comeback.

The Bills challenge wilted though in an indisciplined finale as the Chiefs closed out a deserved victory.

Tom Brady and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers made NFL history on Sunday to set up a dream home Super Bowl against Patrick Mahomes and the defending champion Kansas City Chiefs.

Tom Brady and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers made NFL history on Sunday to set up a dream home Super Bowl against Patrick Mahomes and the defending champion Kansas City Chiefs. Brady, the 43-year-old widely regarded as the greatest quarterback in the history of the sport, led the Buccaneers to a 31-26 upset of the top-seeded Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. It means the Buccaneers will become the first team in NFL history to play in a Super Bowl at their own arena, with the February 7 showpiece taking place at the Raymond James Stadium in Tampa. Brady threw for three touchdowns and 280 yards as he punched his ticket to an incredible 10th Super Bowl appearance, 19 years after his playing in his first championship game with the New England Patriots in 2002. "It's been a long process for the whole team, and today was just a great team effort," Brady said afterwards. The victory represented a stunning vindication of Brady's decision to leave the Patriots in March last year after a glittering two-decade career in New England that yielded six Super Bowl wins. "It's been a great journey thus far," Brady said. "We put the work in. I just made a decision. I've loved coming to work every day with this group of guys. I'm just so proud of this whole team." Brady had helped the Bucs race into a 28-10 lead early in the second half after touchdowns from Mike Evans, Leonard Fournette, Scotty Miller and Cameron Brate as the Packers offense failed to fire. - 'This one stings' - Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers -- bidding to reach a second Super Bowl -- then led a stirring second half fightback with touchdowns from Robert Tonyan and Davante Adams that got the score to 28-23. But the Packers' challenge fizzled after they controversially opted to kick a field goal late in the fourth quarter instead of going for a potentially game-tying touchdown. "This one definitely stings and is going to for a long time, especially the way it played out and the chances we had," a downcast Rodgers said. "The finality of it all, kind of hits you like a ton of bricks. It's a gutting feeling in your stomach." Packers head coach Matt LaFleur later defended the decision to kick a field goal, saying he felt the Green Bay defense could win the ball back. "The way our defense was playing it felt like it was the right decision," LaFleur said. "It just didn't work out." - Chiefs romp - While the Buccaneers-Packers game went to the wire, there was no such drama in Kansas City, where the Chiefs outclassed the Buffalo Bills 38-24 to reach the Super Bowl for a second straight year. "It was just trusting each other," Chiefs quarterback Mahomes said. "The thing about this team is that we trust each other, and every time we go on the field we give it everything we have. "But the job's not finished -- we're going to Tampa and we're going to try and run it back. "We've just got to go to Tampa and be ourselves. I trust my guys over anybody." The Bills started brightly with a field goal and a touchdown from Dawson Knox to take a 9-0 lead. But once the Chiefs' offense cranked into life, there was only going to be one winner, with Mahomes showing no ill-effects from the concussion that knocked him out of last week's divisional round win over Cleveland. The Chiefs rattled off 21 unanswered points with touchdowns from Mecole Hardman, Darrel Williams and Clyde Edwards-Helaire to take a 21-12 lead at half-time. Mahomes produced a cheeky underarm flipped pass to tight end Travis Kelce in the third quarter to help make it 31-15. Kelce then added his second touchdown of the game midway through the fourth quarter to make it 38-15. The Bills rallied with a touchdown from Isaiah McKenzie to cut the Chiefs lead to 38-21 and then recovered an onside kick to raise hopes of an improbable comeback. The Bills challenge wilted though in an indisciplined finale as the Chiefs closed out a deserved victory.

Brady, Mahomes set up dream Super Bowl as Bucs, Chiefs advance

Eden Hazard scored one goal and set up another as Real Madrid thrashed Alaves 4-1 on Saturday to ease the pressure on their coach Zinedine Zidane, who was absent after testing positive for Covid-19.&nbsp;

Zidane's position has come under scrutiny again after Wednesday's defeat by third-tier side Alcoyano in the Copa del Rey but Madrid responded at Mendizorroza without their coach, or their captain Sergio Ramos, who was out with a knee injury.

Goals from Casemiro, Karim Benzema and Hazard put Madrid three up at half-time and while Alaves briefly threatened a fightback when Joselu headed in, Benzema added a second to put the result beyond doubt.

The victory is only Real Madrid's second in six matches and leaves them four points behind Atletico Madrid, who have two games in hand and play Valencia at home on Sunday.&nbsp;

"The goals are good for the confidence, for everyone," said Benzema. "It's been a tough week for us because we always have to win, always have to be on the up. There's always pressure. Today it went well, not just for me, for everyone."

Zidane was confirmed to have tested positive on Friday, leaving his assistant David Bettoni to take charge in the dug-out, although Bettoni was pictured on the telephone in the second half.&nbsp;

"He was very happy with the attitude of the team," said Bettoni when asked what Zidane had told him after the game. "He told me to congratulate the players, as he would have done if he was with us."

Bettoni took off Hazard as Alaves were gaining belief early in the second period but the Belgian enjoyed a positive outing overall that Zidane will hope is the start of a revival.&nbsp;

The 29-year-old has had a nightmare year and a half in Spain, with this only his third goal in La Liga and his first in the league away from home since joining from Chelsea for 100 million euros.&nbsp;

"We have to have more patience, it's true that at Real Madrid patience is difficult," said Bettoni. "I think the best version of Hazard has been seen a little today and that every game we'll see it a bit more."

Benzema was the chief beneficiary as Madrid forgot their recent woes in attack.&nbsp;

There were strong performances too from Toni Kroos, Casemiro and Luka Modric in midfield, the latter providing a handful of supreme passes, one of which led to Benzema's second and Madrid's fourth.&nbsp;

Madrid's first half was probably their best of the season, prompted by an early goal from Casemiro to boost confidence, the Brazilian heading Kroos' corner inside the post.&nbsp;

Hazard scuffed a chance wide but was involved in the second as he tried to flick Lucas Vazquez's pass into Benzema but feathering it was enough, with Benzema given space to fire into the top left-hand corner.&nbsp;

Hazard made it three four minutes later. Kroos looked up and as Alaves pushed out, Hazard surged in behind, the ball looping over for him to control and finish past Fernando Pachecho.&nbsp;

Alaves pushed hard after half-time and were given hope when Joselu headed in from Lucas Perez's free-kick. Yet the comeback was short-lived as Benzema raced onto another curling Modric pass out to the left, nipped inside and stroked into the far corner.

Earlier, Youssef En-Nesyri scored his second hat-trick in four games as Sevilla dispatched Cadiz 3-0 to move up to third.

The Moroccan striker's treble takes him level with Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez at the top of the league's scoring charts with 11 goals and makes it seven for him in the last four matches.

Cadiz, meanwhile, slip to ninth, below Real Betis, who came from behind to salvage a 2-2 draw at Real Sociedad by scoring twice in the last five minutes.

Real Sociedad drop to sixth, three points adrift of Barca in fourth. Betis climb to eighth.&nbsp;

Eden Hazard scored one goal and set up another as Real Madrid thrashed Alaves 4-1 on Saturday to ease the pressure on their coach Zinedine Zidane, who was absent after testing positive for Covid-19.

Eden Hazard scored one goal and set up another as Real Madrid thrashed Alaves 4-1 on Saturday to ease the pressure on their coach Zinedine Zidane, who was absent after testing positive for Covid-19. Zidane's position has come under scrutiny again after Wednesday's defeat by third-tier side Alcoyano in the Copa del Rey but Madrid responded at Mendizorroza without their coach, or their captain Sergio Ramos, who was out with a knee injury. Goals from Casemiro, Karim Benzema and Hazard put Madrid three up at half-time and while Alaves briefly threatened a fightback when Joselu headed in, Benzema added a second to put the result beyond doubt. The victory is only Real Madrid's second in six matches and leaves them four points behind Atletico Madrid, who have two games in hand and play Valencia at home on Sunday. "The goals are good for the confidence, for everyone," said Benzema. "It's been a tough week for us because we always have to win, always have to be on the up. There's always pressure. Today it went well, not just for me, for everyone." Zidane was confirmed to have tested positive on Friday, leaving his assistant David Bettoni to take charge in the dug-out, although Bettoni was pictured on the telephone in the second half. "He was very happy with the attitude of the team," said Bettoni when asked what Zidane had told him after the game. "He told me to congratulate the players, as he would have done if he was with us." Bettoni took off Hazard as Alaves were gaining belief early in the second period but the Belgian enjoyed a positive outing overall that Zidane will hope is the start of a revival. The 29-year-old has had a nightmare year and a half in Spain, with this only his third goal in La Liga and his first in the league away from home since joining from Chelsea for 100 million euros. "We have to have more patience, it's true that at Real Madrid patience is difficult," said Bettoni. "I think the best version of Hazard has been seen a little today and that every game we'll see it a bit more." Benzema was the chief beneficiary as Madrid forgot their recent woes in attack. There were strong performances too from Toni Kroos, Casemiro and Luka Modric in midfield, the latter providing a handful of supreme passes, one of which led to Benzema's second and Madrid's fourth. Madrid's first half was probably their best of the season, prompted by an early goal from Casemiro to boost confidence, the Brazilian heading Kroos' corner inside the post. Hazard scuffed a chance wide but was involved in the second as he tried to flick Lucas Vazquez's pass into Benzema but feathering it was enough, with Benzema given space to fire into the top left-hand corner. Hazard made it three four minutes later. Kroos looked up and as Alaves pushed out, Hazard surged in behind, the ball looping over for him to control and finish past Fernando Pachecho. Alaves pushed hard after half-time and were given hope when Joselu headed in from Lucas Perez's free-kick. Yet the comeback was short-lived as Benzema raced onto another curling Modric pass out to the left, nipped inside and stroked into the far corner. Earlier, Youssef En-Nesyri scored his second hat-trick in four games as Sevilla dispatched Cadiz 3-0 to move up to third. The Moroccan striker's treble takes him level with Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez at the top of the league's scoring charts with 11 goals and makes it seven for him in the last four matches. Cadiz, meanwhile, slip to ninth, below Real Betis, who came from behind to salvage a 2-2 draw at Real Sociedad by scoring twice in the last five minutes. Real Sociedad drop to sixth, three points adrift of Barca in fourth. Betis climb to eighth.

Hazard leads Real Madrid to Alaves rout to relieve pressure on Zidane

Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer set a new Bundesliga record with the 197th clean sheet of his career in the German top flight as the league leaders thrashed Schalke on Sunday.

The 34-year-old, voted FIFA's best goalkeeper of 2020, bettered the previous record set by former Bayern and Germany goalkeeper Oliver Kahn.

Kahn needed 557 Bundesliga matches, for Bayern and Karlsruher, to reach the old mark, which current Germany 'keeper Neuer has usurped after 423 league games for the Bavarians and former club Schalke.

On Sunday, Neuer pulled off saves to deny Mark Uth and Suat Serdar in Gelsenkirchen.

Neuer said he hopes Schalke avoid relegation having come through their academy before joining Bayern in 2011.&nbsp;

"I hope Schalke stay in the league and manage to turn the tide," Neuer told Sky, after brushing off questions about his record.

"They had one or two chances and we didn't defend as well as we could have done."

The 4-0 victory, which saw Thomas Mueller score twice, sent Bayern seven points clear of second-placed RB Leipzig in the table.

Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer set a new Bundesliga record with the 197th clean sheet of his career in the German top flight as the league leaders thrashed Schalke on Sunday.

Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer set a new Bundesliga record with the 197th clean sheet of his career in the German top flight as the league leaders thrashed Schalke on Sunday. The 34-year-old, voted FIFA's best goalkeeper of 2020, bettered the previous record set by former Bayern and Germany goalkeeper Oliver Kahn. Kahn needed 557 Bundesliga matches, for Bayern and Karlsruher, to reach the old mark, which current Germany 'keeper Neuer has usurped after 423 league games for the Bavarians and former club Schalke. On Sunday, Neuer pulled off saves to deny Mark Uth and Suat Serdar in Gelsenkirchen. Neuer said he hopes Schalke avoid relegation having come through their academy before joining Bayern in 2011. "I hope Schalke stay in the league and manage to turn the tide," Neuer told Sky, after brushing off questions about his record. "They had one or two chances and we didn't defend as well as we could have done." The 4-0 victory, which saw Thomas Mueller score twice, sent Bayern seven points clear of second-placed RB Leipzig in the table.

Neuer sets new Bundesliga record for most clean sheets

Bruno Fernandes' superb free-kick sent troubled Liverpool crashing out of the FA Cup as Manchester United beat their bitter rivals 3-2 in the fourth round, while Tammy Abraham's hat-trick eased the pressure on Chelsea manager Frank Lampard in a win over Luton on Sunday.

Fernandes struck with 12 minutes left at Old Trafford to cap a thrilling clash that left Liverpool searching for answers after another painful defeat.

Jurgen Klopp's side took the lead through Mohamed Salah's first-half goal, but Mason Greenwood equalised before the interval.

Marcus Rashford put United in front after the break and, although Salah equalised, Portugal midfielder Fernandes came off the bench to fire his free-kick past Alisson Becker.

After slumping to fourth in the Premier League following Thursday's shock 1-0 defeat against Burnley -- their first league loss at Anfield since 2017 -- Liverpool have to lick their wounds again.

The English champions, who trail leaders United by six points, have won only one of their last seven games in all competitions and that lone success came against Aston Villa's youth team in the FA Cup third round.

Liverpool struck in the 18th minute when Roberto Firmino threaded a pass to Salah, who lifted his shot over Dean Henderson.

United levelled in the 26th minute when Rashford sent Greenwood clear for a low strike past Alisson Becker.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's men netted again in the 48th minute as a mistake from Liverpool's young defender Rhys Williams allowed Greenwood to race clear and score.

Firmino's cross was converted by Salah for Liverpool's 58th-minute equaliser, but Fernandes won it with his sublime set-piece after Fabinho fouled Edinson Cavani.

United will host West Ham in the fifth round as their momentum continues to build.

"You know when you go a goal down the reaction of everyone was really good. We played some really good stuff, good goals. We have to defend well against them and we managed to react well," Solskjaer said.

Liverpool have never got past the fifth round in Klopp's reign, but that will be the least of his concerns as he tries to spark a revival from his spluttering team.

"There was a lot of&nbsp;good things and some mistakes around the goals. If you want to win here you have to be absolutely top and we were not," Klopp said.

<h2>- Relief for Lampard -</h2>

Lampard has been under the spotlight, but there was some relief for the Blues boss as Abraham's finishing helped seal a 3-1 victory against Luton.

The England striker struck twice in the opening 17 minutes, first firing into the far corner before heading home from close range for his 10th goal of the season.

However, it was not all plain sailing for Lampard's men as goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga was at fault for another sloppy goal, while Timo Werner's lack of confidence will not have been helped by missing a penalty.

Jordan Clark's low shot crept past Kepa's woeful attempted save to give Luton a lifeline and the world's most expensive 'keeper had to make a much more difficult stop to deny Harry Cornick an equaliser in the second half.

A brilliant team move finally killed the tie off 16 minutes from time as substitute Callum Hudson-Odoi crossed for Abraham to tap home from point-blank range.

Werner had a chance to score just his second goal in 16 games when he was tripped by Clark, but his dreadful spell continued as his tame penalty was saved by Simon Sluga.

A trip to Barnsley in the fifth round awaits early next month in what is likely to be Chelsea's best chance of a trophy this season.

Leicester and Everton were also successful over Championship opposition to maintain their fine form.

The Foxes came from behind to beat Brentford 3-1 to set up a home tie against Brighton.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin struck on his return from injury as Everton saw off Sheffield Wednesday 3-0. Carlo Ancelotti's men will face the winners of Tottenham's trip to Wycombe on Monday.

Burnley beat Fulham 3-0 at Craven Cottage and play Bournemouth or Crawley in the last 16.

Bruno Fernandes' superb free-kick sent troubled Liverpool crashing out of the FA Cup as Manchester United beat their bitter rivals 3-2 in the fourth round, while Tammy Abraham's hat-trick eased the pressure on Chelsea manager Frank Lampard in a win over Luton on Sunday.

Bruno Fernandes' superb free-kick sent troubled Liverpool crashing out of the FA Cup as Manchester United beat their bitter rivals 3-2 in the fourth round, while Tammy Abraham's hat-trick eased the pressure on Chelsea manager Frank Lampard in a win over Luton on Sunday. Fernandes struck with 12 minutes left at Old Trafford to cap a thrilling clash that left Liverpool searching for answers after another painful defeat. Jurgen Klopp's side took the lead through Mohamed Salah's first-half goal, but Mason Greenwood equalised before the interval. Marcus Rashford put United in front after the break and, although Salah equalised, Portugal midfielder Fernandes came off the bench to fire his free-kick past Alisson Becker. After slumping to fourth in the Premier League following Thursday's shock 1-0 defeat against Burnley -- their first league loss at Anfield since 2017 -- Liverpool have to lick their wounds again. The English champions, who trail leaders United by six points, have won only one of their last seven games in all competitions and that lone success came against Aston Villa's youth team in the FA Cup third round. Liverpool struck in the 18th minute when Roberto Firmino threaded a pass to Salah, who lifted his shot over Dean Henderson. United levelled in the 26th minute when Rashford sent Greenwood clear for a low strike past Alisson Becker. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's men netted again in the 48th minute as a mistake from Liverpool's young defender Rhys Williams allowed Greenwood to race clear and score. Firmino's cross was converted by Salah for Liverpool's 58th-minute equaliser, but Fernandes won it with his sublime set-piece after Fabinho fouled Edinson Cavani. United will host West Ham in the fifth round as their momentum continues to build. "You know when you go a goal down the reaction of everyone was really good. We played some really good stuff, good goals. We have to defend well against them and we managed to react well," Solskjaer said. Liverpool have never got past the fifth round in Klopp's reign, but that will be the least of his concerns as he tries to spark a revival from his spluttering team. "There was a lot of good things and some mistakes around the goals. If you want to win here you have to be absolutely top and we were not," Klopp said. - Relief for Lampard - Lampard has been under the spotlight, but there was some relief for the Blues boss as Abraham's finishing helped seal a 3-1 victory against Luton. The England striker struck twice in the opening 17 minutes, first firing into the far corner before heading home from close range for his 10th goal of the season. However, it was not all plain sailing for Lampard's men as goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga was at fault for another sloppy goal, while Timo Werner's lack of confidence will not have been helped by missing a penalty. Jordan Clark's low shot crept past Kepa's woeful attempted save to give Luton a lifeline and the world's most expensive 'keeper had to make a much more difficult stop to deny Harry Cornick an equaliser in the second half. A brilliant team move finally killed the tie off 16 minutes from time as substitute Callum Hudson-Odoi crossed for Abraham to tap home from point-blank range. Werner had a chance to score just his second goal in 16 games when he was tripped by Clark, but his dreadful spell continued as his tame penalty was saved by Simon Sluga. A trip to Barnsley in the fifth round awaits early next month in what is likely to be Chelsea's best chance of a trophy this season. Leicester and Everton were also successful over Championship opposition to maintain their fine form. The Foxes came from behind to beat Brentford 3-1 to set up a home tie against Brighton. Dominic Calvert-Lewin struck on his return from injury as Everton saw off Sheffield Wednesday 3-0. Carlo Ancelotti's men will face the winners of Tottenham's trip to Wycombe on Monday. Burnley beat Fulham 3-0 at Craven Cottage and play Bournemouth or Crawley in the last 16.

Fernandes gem knocks Liverpool out of FA Cup, Chelsea ease pressure on Lampard

England spinners Jack Leach and Dom Bess wreaked havoc with three wickets each as Sri Lanka slipped to 67 for six in their second innings at lunch on day four of the final Test on Monday.

Sri Lanka lead by 104 runs after they bowled out England for 344, 37 short of the hosts' first innings total of 381. Debutant Ramesh Mendis, on 11, and Dilruwan Perera, on one, were batting in Galle.

Sri Lankan left-arm spinner Lasith Embuldeniya claimed seven wickets to end England's first innings after the tourists resumed on 339 for nine.

Leach&nbsp;soon made his left-arm spin count as he got Kusal Perera trapped lbw for 14, and off-spinner Bess sent back Oshada Fernando for three.

First-innings centurion Angelo Mathews was then bowled by Bess for five and Chandimal fell to Leach, with James Anderson taking a superb running catch.

Sri Lanka were in disarray on 66 for six and could have been seven if skipper Joe Root would have held on to a tough chance at slip off Bess right on lunch.

Earlier Dilruwan trapped overnight batsman Leach lbw for one on just the 11th ball of the day after England resumed on 339 for nine in Galle.

Leach took a single and number 11 Anderson hit a boundary off Embuldeniya, who returned career-best figures of 7-137 in just his ninth Test, to add five runs to the overnight score.

Root scored 186 -- after his double century in the first Test -- to steer England's first-innings response.

Riding on Root's 228, England won the opening Test to lead the resumed series, which started last March but was postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

England spinners Jack Leach and Dom Bess wreaked havoc with three wickets each as Sri Lanka slipped to 67 for six in their second innings at lunch on day four of the final Test on Monday.

England spinners Jack Leach and Dom Bess wreaked havoc with three wickets each as Sri Lanka slipped to 67 for six in their second innings at lunch on day four of the final Test on Monday. Sri Lanka lead by 104 runs after they bowled out England for 344, 37 short of the hosts' first innings total of 381. Debutant Ramesh Mendis, on 11, and Dilruwan Perera, on one, were batting in Galle. Sri Lankan left-arm spinner Lasith Embuldeniya claimed seven wickets to end England's first innings after the tourists resumed on 339 for nine. Leach soon made his left-arm spin count as he got Kusal Perera trapped lbw for 14, and off-spinner Bess sent back Oshada Fernando for three. First-innings centurion Angelo Mathews was then bowled by Bess for five and Chandimal fell to Leach, with James Anderson taking a superb running catch. Sri Lanka were in disarray on 66 for six and could have been seven if skipper Joe Root would have held on to a tough chance at slip off Bess right on lunch. Earlier Dilruwan trapped overnight batsman Leach lbw for one on just the 11th ball of the day after England resumed on 339 for nine in Galle. Leach took a single and number 11 Anderson hit a boundary off Embuldeniya, who returned career-best figures of 7-137 in just his ninth Test, to add five runs to the overnight score. Root scored 186 -- after his double century in the first Test -- to steer England's first-innings response. Riding on Root's 228, England won the opening Test to lead the resumed series, which started last March but was postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Leach, Bess rattle Sri Lanka with six wickets

Former England international Gary Neville has said that "expectations" cost Frank Lampard his job after Chelsea spent lavishly on new players in the summer transfer window. Chelsea on Monday sacked Lampard as the manager of the club after a string of poor results in the Premier League.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Lampard was sacked by Chelsea, where he became a football legend as a player, 18 months into his role as manager. While Lampard did exceedingly well by taking Chelsea into a top-four finish last season, heavy spending in the summer window blended with recent series of dismal performances resulted in his sacking.&nbsp;

The Blues have won just one in their five Premier League matches and are currently lying ninth in the table.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Frank has had a short amount of time with a new set of players. He was given a period under a transfer embargo, it shielded him, he did a great job in that period but the minute they spent the money they did, it was always going to bring more expectation and we know what happens at Chelsea when expectation comes,” Neville told Sky Sports News.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-chelsea-sack-manager-frank-lampard-359223" hreflang="en">Premier League: Chelsea sack manager Frank Lampard</a>

“When you have one of the biggest budgets in the league and biggest spend, expectation comes with it and at Chelsea, their approach to managers has been consistent and Frank knew that when he got the job.&nbsp;

“Frank won't want people to feel sorry for him, he'll have an understanding that he went into a club that has always been like this with managers. The results and inconsistent form&nbsp;has&nbsp;cost him. As a club legend we maybe all thought he'd get a bit more time.”&nbsp;

However, Neville said that it wasn't a mistake on Lampard's part to accept the job offer by Chelsea as the former English defender wished he would go on to build a great managerial career in future.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Thomas Tuchel, who was recently sacked by Paris Saint-Germain, is&nbsp;favourite&nbsp;to take over the charge at Stamford Bridge. Neville warned that Tuchel will be exposed to the same expectations by the Chelsea board similar to what happened to Lampard.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-messi-to-ramos-football-stars-who-run-out-of-contracts-in-2021-356962" hreflang="en">From Messi to Ramos: Football stars who run out of contracts in 2021</a>

“I don't believe it was too early, he had no choice,” Neville added. “It's OK everyone saying pick and choose, maybe he wasn't right, there was no way you turn it down if you're Frank Lampard. He's a better manager today than he was 17 months&nbsp;ago,&nbsp;I hope he's able to go and build a brilliant managerial career.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I sit here with no feeling of sorry for Frank, or that he's done anything other than a good job. It's Chelsea... Frank has been exposed to Chelsea releasing managers every 12 to 18 months if things don't go as they want.&nbsp;

“I don't have any great deal of worry for Frank's career. Tuchel will be exposed to the exact same rules as Frank and we'll be saying the same about him in 18 months, two years.”&nbsp;

Former England international Gary Neville has said that "expectations" cost Frank Lampard his job after Chelsea spent lavishly on new players in the summer transfer window.

Former England international Gary Neville has said that "expectations" cost Frank Lampard his job after Chelsea spent lavishly on new players in the summer transfer window. Chelsea on Monday sacked Lampard as the manager of the club after a string of poor results in the Premier League. Lampard was sacked by Chelsea, where he became a football legend as a player, 18 months into his role as manager. While Lampard did exceedingly well by taking Chelsea into a top-four finish last season, heavy spending in the summer window blended with recent series of dismal performances resulted in his sacking. The Blues have won just one in their five Premier League matches and are currently lying ninth in the table. “Frank has had a short amount of time with a new set of players. He was given a period under a transfer embargo, it shielded him, he did a great job in that period but the minute they spent the money they did, it was always going to bring more expectation and we know what happens at Chelsea when expectation comes,” Neville told Sky Sports News. ALSO READ: Premier League: Chelsea sack manager Frank Lampard “When you have one of the biggest budgets in the league and biggest spend, expectation comes with it and at Chelsea, their approach to managers has been consistent and Frank knew that when he got the job. “Frank won't want people to feel sorry for him, he'll have an understanding that he went into a club that has always been like this with managers. The results and inconsistent form has cost him. As a club legend we maybe all thought he'd get a bit more time.” However, Neville said that it wasn't a mistake on Lampard's part to accept the job offer by Chelsea as the former English defender wished he would go on to build a great managerial career in future. Thomas Tuchel, who was recently sacked by Paris Saint-Germain, is favourite to take over the charge at Stamford Bridge. Neville warned that Tuchel will be exposed to the same expectations by the Chelsea board similar to what happened to Lampard. ALSO READ: From Messi to Ramos: Football stars who run out of contracts in 2021 “I don't believe it was too early, he had no choice,” Neville added. “It's OK everyone saying pick and choose, maybe he wasn't right, there was no way you turn it down if you're Frank Lampard. He's a better manager today than he was 17 months ago, I hope he's able to go and build a brilliant managerial career. “I sit here with no feeling of sorry for Frank, or that he's done anything other than a good job. It's Chelsea... Frank has been exposed to Chelsea releasing managers every 12 to 18 months if things don't go as they want. “I don't have any great deal of worry for Frank's career. Tuchel will be exposed to the exact same rules as Frank and we'll be saying the same about him in 18 months, two years.”

'Tuchel will be exposed to exact same rules': Gary Neville on Frank Lampard's sacking as Chelsea manager

England on Monday defeated Sri Lanka by six wickets in the second Test to win the series 2-0. However, a bigger challenge awaits the Joe Root-led England with their next immediate series being against India starting from February 5.&nbsp;Former Sri Lanka captain Mahela&nbsp;Jayawardene&nbsp;has now given his take on England's chances in the upcoming four-Test series against India.&nbsp;

India have not lost a home Test series since 2012 and the Virat Kohli-led outfit would be looking to continue its winning run following India's&nbsp;historic triumph against Australia in the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2020-21.&nbsp;

Jayawardene&nbsp;has opined that England are "very well prepared" to take on India as he said that having the likes of Ben Stokes, Jofra Archer and spin duo of Dom Bess and Jack Leach will&nbsp;help England pose a challenge against India.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-world-test-championship-final-postponed-new-dates-revealed-359240" hreflang="en">ICC World Test Championship final postponed, new dates revealed!</a>

However, England will be missing Jonny Bairstow and Sam Curran in the first two Tests due to rotation policy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

When asked what are England’s chances of beating India, former Sri Lanka captain&nbsp;Jayawardene&nbsp;told Sky Sports:&nbsp;&nbsp;

"I think that’s going to be a very exciting series and a very good challenge for this group of players. That’s what cricket is all about. You need to go away and win Test series.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Getting Ben Stokes back will be a massive advantage for England because he will bring that experience and be another left-handed batsman in their top-order which can be crucial. ‘It will be a challenge for Rory Burns if he opens. He hasn’t played much cricket lately. I’m disappointed Bairstow is leaving the squad given his experience and the way he batted in this series. He should be in that tour party.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-defeat-sri-lanka-by-six-wickets-in-galle-win-series-2-0-359231" hreflang="en">England defeat Sri Lanka by six wickets in Galle, win series 2-0</a>

"Jofra Archer will bring something to the table with his pace, especially on slower wickets. So I think overall they [England] are very well prepared.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"The two spinners [Dom Bess and Jack Leech] will have learnt a lot here but it will be a bigger challenge in India."&nbsp;

England Test captain Root was named the Player of the Series after scoring a double century and 186 in the two Tests respectively. Even the likes of Bess and Leach impressed while veterans Broad and Anderson continued their good run of form. Notably, England were the last team to defeat India in a series back in 2012.

England on Monday defeated Sri Lanka by six wickets in the second Test to win the series 2-0. However, a bigger challenge awaits the Joe Root-led England with their next immediate series being against India starting from February 5.

England on Monday defeated Sri Lanka by six wickets in the second Test to win the series 2-0. However, a bigger challenge awaits the Joe Root-led England with their next immediate series being against India starting from February 5. Former Sri Lanka captain Mahela Jayawardene has now given his take on England's chances in the upcoming four-Test series against India. India have not lost a home Test series since 2012 and the Virat Kohli-led outfit would be looking to continue its winning run following India's historic triumph against Australia in the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2020-21. Jayawardene has opined that England are "very well prepared" to take on India as he said that having the likes of Ben Stokes, Jofra Archer and spin duo of Dom Bess and Jack Leach will help England pose a challenge against India. ALSO READ: ICC World Test Championship final postponed, new dates revealed! However, England will be missing Jonny Bairstow and Sam Curran in the first two Tests due to rotation policy. When asked what are England’s chances of beating India, former Sri Lanka captain Jayawardene told Sky Sports: "I think that’s going to be a very exciting series and a very good challenge for this group of players. That’s what cricket is all about. You need to go away and win Test series. "Getting Ben Stokes back will be a massive advantage for England because he will bring that experience and be another left-handed batsman in their top-order which can be crucial. ‘It will be a challenge for Rory Burns if he opens. He hasn’t played much cricket lately. I’m disappointed Bairstow is leaving the squad given his experience and the way he batted in this series. He should be in that tour party. ALSO READ: England defeat Sri Lanka by six wickets in Galle, win series 2-0 "Jofra Archer will bring something to the table with his pace, especially on slower wickets. So I think overall they [England] are very well prepared. "The two spinners [Dom Bess and Jack Leech] will have learnt a lot here but it will be a bigger challenge in India." England Test captain Root was named the Player of the Series after scoring a double century and 186 in the two Tests respectively. Even the likes of Bess and Leach impressed while veterans Broad and Anderson continued their good run of form. Notably, England were the last team to defeat India in a series back in 2012.

Can England upset Team India in Test series? Mahela Jayawardene opines

Bangladesh beat the West Indies by 120 runs in the third one-day international in Chittagong Monday to sweep the series 3-0.

Mohammad Saifuddin claimed three wickets as Bangladesh bowled out the West Indies for 177 runs in 44.2 overs.

Earlier, four players hit fifties as Bangladesh made 297-6 in their 50 overs.

The hosts won the first two matches of the series in Dhaka by six and seven wickets respectively

The two teams will play two Test matches in February.&nbsp;

Bangladesh beat the West Indies by 120 runs in the third one-day international in Chittagong Monday to sweep the series 3-0. Mohammad Saifuddin claimed three wickets as Bangladesh bowled out the West Indies for 177 runs in 44.

Bangladesh beat the West Indies by 120 runs in the third one-day international in Chittagong Monday to sweep the series 3-0. Mohammad Saifuddin claimed three wickets as Bangladesh bowled out the West Indies for 177 runs in 44.2 overs. Earlier, four players hit fifties as Bangladesh made 297-6 in their 50 overs. The hosts won the first two matches of the series in Dhaka by six and seven wickets respectively The two teams will play two Test matches in February.

Bangladesh sweep ODI series 3-0 against West Indies

The much-awaited final of the inaugural edition of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) has been shifted to June 18 to June 22 with June 23 booked as a reserve day. The summit clash of the ICC World Test Championship was originally scheduled to be played from June 10-14 at the iconic Lord's Cricket Ground.&nbsp;

According to ANI, the shift from the original scheduled was done keeping in mind the proximity between World Test Championship final and the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 final&nbsp;–&nbsp;dates&nbsp;yet to be officially announced - and the quarantine period that players might have to go through amid the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India and New Zealand continue to sit at the top two spots in the WTC standings respectively with England closing in on third-placed Australia with a 2-0 series win against Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-defeat-sri-lanka-by-six-wickets-in-galle-win-series-2-0-359231" hreflang="en">England defeat Sri Lanka by six wickets in Galle, win series 2-0</a>

India will be playing a home series against England as part of WTC whereas Australia will be taking on South Africa in what will be a must-win series for Tim Paine and Co if they wish to play in the finals of WTC.&nbsp;

In 2019, the ICC changed the point-rating system due to the postponement of many series because of COVID-19 pandemic. The system has been revised to rank teams based on the&nbsp;percentage of win points.&nbsp;

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With a 2-0 series sweep over Sri Lanka, England are now only 0.5% behind Australia in the ICC World Test Championship standings 👀<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTC21?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTC21</a> <a href="https://t.co/ZoliydObpd">pic.twitter.com/ZoliydObpd</a>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/my-career-hit-a-low-after-world-cup-rishabh-pant-reflects-back-on-struggling-phase-359183" hreflang="en">'My career hit a low after World Cup': Rishabh Pant reflects back on struggling phase</a>

On Monday, ECB confirmed that England will face&nbsp;New Zealand&nbsp;in a two-Test series from June 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I think Test Championship, as an ICC tournament, should be right up there. All the other tournaments, for me, start under that. This is going to be the biggest of them all. Every team wants to make it to the final at Lord’s. And we are not any different. We want those points and make sure that we qualify as early as we can, and be in that frame of mind to hopefully win that,”&nbsp;Indian captain Virat Kohli&nbsp;had said&nbsp;heaping praise on Test cricket and ICC WTC.&nbsp;

The much-awaited final of the inaugural edition of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) has been shifted to June 18 to June 22 with June 23 booked as a reserve day.

The much-awaited final of the inaugural edition of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) has been shifted to June 18 to June 22 with June 23 booked as a reserve day. The summit clash of the ICC World Test Championship was originally scheduled to be played from June 10-14 at the iconic Lord's Cricket Ground. According to ANI, the shift from the original scheduled was done keeping in mind the proximity between World Test Championship final and the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 final – dates yet to be officially announced - and the quarantine period that players might have to go through amid the COVID-19 pandemic. India and New Zealand continue to sit at the top two spots in the WTC standings respectively with England closing in on third-placed Australia with a 2-0 series win against Sri Lanka. ALSO READ: England defeat Sri Lanka by six wickets in Galle, win series 2-0 India will be playing a home series against England as part of WTC whereas Australia will be taking on South Africa in what will be a must-win series for Tim Paine and Co if they wish to play in the finals of WTC. In 2019, the ICC changed the point-rating system due to the postponement of many series because of COVID-19 pandemic. The system has been revised to rank teams based on the percentage of win points. With a 2-0 series sweep over Sri Lanka, England are now only 0.5% behind Australia in the ICC World Test Championship standings 👀#WTC21 pic.twitter.com/ZoliydObpd — ICC (@ICC) January 25, 2021 × ALSO READ: 'My career hit a low after World Cup': Rishabh Pant reflects back on struggling phase On Monday, ECB confirmed that England will face New Zealand in a two-Test series from June 2. “I think Test Championship, as an ICC tournament, should be right up there. All the other tournaments, for me, start under that. This is going to be the biggest of them all. Every team wants to make it to the final at Lord’s. And we are not any different. We want those points and make sure that we qualify as early as we can, and be in that frame of mind to hopefully win that,” Indian captain Virat Kohli had said heaping praise on Test cricket and ICC WTC.

ICC World Test Championship final postponed, new dates revealed!

England on Monday defeated Sri Lanka by six wickets at the Galle International Stadium in Galle&nbsp;to win the two-match series 2-0. It was a historic win for the Joe Root-led side as England also become the first team to win six consecutive Test against Sri Lanka in Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

While Sri Lankan spinner Lasith&nbsp;Embuldeniya&nbsp;toiled hard to pick a 10-wicket-haul while also scoring a&nbsp;blistering 40 runs, England were patient enough to keep hitting the odd bad balls for runs as they chased the target with six wickets in hand. English opener Dom Sibley scored a gritty half-century after struggling in the series&nbsp;while skipper Root continued to impress with the bat while ending the series with a 100+ average.&nbsp;

England are now unbeaten on Sri Lankan soil in Test since 2012 and also won both the matches in the series after losing the toss.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/my-career-hit-a-low-after-world-cup-rishabh-pant-reflects-back-on-struggling-phase-359183" hreflang="en">'My career hit a low after World Cup': Rishabh Pant reflects back on struggling phase</a>

Dom Sibley, after the second Test in Galle, said: "It was nice to spend some time at the crease as I was just trying to build a partnership. Watching Joe, the way he has played in this series, it has been incredible. I have changed a couple of things about myself during this series, it takes a lot of courage to do few of these things. Just trying to work it out. Jos (Buttler) plays at a higher tempo and he took the pressure off me (during that partnership). It's a good win. Let's see what happens against India with a lot of guys coming back in. But scoring some runs has obviously taken some pressure off.”&nbsp;

Batting first, Sri Lanka posted 381 in the first innings after a great century by Angelo Matthews. For England, James Anderson was the wrecker-in-chief as the veteran bagged six wickets in the first innings.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-disrespectful-kevin-pietersen-lashes-out-on-englands-possible-xi-against-india-359060" hreflang="en">'It’s disrespectful': Kevin Pietersen lashes out on England's possible XI against India</a>

England, in reply, could manage 344 runs after a masterful 186 by skipper Root and crucial 55-run knock by Buttler. For Sri Lanka, Embuldeniya scalped seven wickets.&nbsp;

Sri Lanka, in the second innings, followed with just 126 runs as Embuldeniya made a mark with the bat by scoring 40 runs off 42 balls laced by six boundaries and one six.&nbsp;

Chasing the target, England lost the likes of Zak Crawley, Jonny Bairstow and Root for modest scores but Sibley and Buttler held their nerves to seal the match and historic series for the visitors.&nbsp;

England will now head to India for a full-fledged series starting from February 5.

England on Monday defeated Sri Lanka by six wickets at the Galle International Stadium in Galle to win the two-match series 2-0. It was a historic win for the Joe Root-led side as England also become the first team to win six consecutive Test against Sri Lanka in Sri Lanka.

England on Monday defeated Sri Lanka by six wickets at the Galle International Stadium in Galle to win the two-match series 2-0. It was a historic win for the Joe Root-led side as England also become the first team to win six consecutive Test against Sri Lanka in Sri Lanka. While Sri Lankan spinner Lasith Embuldeniya toiled hard to pick a 10-wicket-haul while also scoring a blistering 40 runs, England were patient enough to keep hitting the odd bad balls for runs as they chased the target with six wickets in hand. English opener Dom Sibley scored a gritty half-century after struggling in the series while skipper Root continued to impress with the bat while ending the series with a 100+ average. England are now unbeaten on Sri Lankan soil in Test since 2012 and also won both the matches in the series after losing the toss. ALSO READ: 'My career hit a low after World Cup': Rishabh Pant reflects back on struggling phase Dom Sibley, after the second Test in Galle, said: "It was nice to spend some time at the crease as I was just trying to build a partnership. Watching Joe, the way he has played in this series, it has been incredible. I have changed a couple of things about myself during this series, it takes a lot of courage to do few of these things. Just trying to work it out. Jos (Buttler) plays at a higher tempo and he took the pressure off me (during that partnership). It's a good win. Let's see what happens against India with a lot of guys coming back in. But scoring some runs has obviously taken some pressure off.” Batting first, Sri Lanka posted 381 in the first innings after a great century by Angelo Matthews. For England, James Anderson was the wrecker-in-chief as the veteran bagged six wickets in the first innings. ALSO READ: 'It’s disrespectful': Kevin Pietersen lashes out on England's possible XI against India England, in reply, could manage 344 runs after a masterful 186 by skipper Root and crucial 55-run knock by Buttler. For Sri Lanka, Embuldeniya scalped seven wickets. Sri Lanka, in the second innings, followed with just 126 runs as Embuldeniya made a mark with the bat by scoring 40 runs off 42 balls laced by six boundaries and one six. Chasing the target, England lost the likes of Zak Crawley, Jonny Bairstow and Root for modest scores but Sibley and Buttler held their nerves to seal the match and historic series for the visitors. England will now head to India for a full-fledged series starting from February 5.

England defeat Sri Lanka by six wickets in Galle, win series 2-0

Chelsea on Monday officially sacked Frank Lampard as the manager of the club after a string of poor results. While Chelsea won their FA Cup 2020-21 match against Luton Town, the London club has been struggling to win matches consistently. Describing the call as "a very difficult decision", Chelsea thanked Lampard for his contribution as the head coach of the club while adding the recent performances have not met club's expectations.&nbsp;

Lampard, who had helped Chelsea finish fourth in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league?page=1">Premier League</a> 2019-20 season despite having a transfer ban, enjoyed a good start in the ongoing season but the performances have gone downward since December.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Chelsea&nbsp;boss Roman Abramovich said that under the current circumstances, the&nbsp;hierarchy&nbsp;thought it is the best to change managers.&nbsp;

Chelsea went on to sign the likes of Timo Werner, Kai&nbsp;Havertz, Ben Chilwell among others, the club has failed to stitch a series of positive results recently. Chelsea, in the ongoing 2020-21 season, were off to a&nbsp;rollicking&nbsp;start but fell off the radar with players&nbsp;hitting off-form at the wrong time of the season.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{85bf3494-e16c-4655-95ce-623f7a44dc7e}{56}" paraid="999215843" >Full Statement from Chelsea on Frank Lampard's sacking:&nbsp;</h2>

This has been a very difficult decision, and not one that the owner and the Board have taken lightly.&nbsp;

We are grateful to Frank for what he has achieved in his time as Head Coach of the Club. However, recent results and performances have not met the Club’s expectations, leaving the Club mid-table without any clear path to sustained improvement.&nbsp;

There can never be a good time to part ways with a club legend such as Frank, but after lengthy deliberation and consideration, it was decided a change is needed now to give the Club time to improve performances and results this season.&nbsp;

Roman Abramovich said,&nbsp;

“This was a very difficult decision for the Club, not least because I have an excellent personal relationship with Frank and I have the utmost respect for him’.&nbsp;

“He is a man of great integrity and has the highest of work ethics. However, under current circumstances, we believe it is best to change manage

“On behalf of everyone at the Club, the Board and personally, I would like to thank Frank for his work as Head Coach and wish him every success in the future. He is an important icon of this great club and his status here remains undiminished. He will always be warmly welcomed back at Stamford Bridge.”&nbsp;

The Club will be making no further comment until such time as a new Head Coach is appointed.&nbsp;

Chelsea on Monday officially sacked Frank Lampard as the manager of the club after a string of poor results. While Chelsea won their FA Cup 2020-21 match against Luton Town, the London club has been struggling to win matches consistently.

Chelsea on Monday officially sacked Frank Lampard as the manager of the club after a string of poor results. While Chelsea won their FA Cup 2020-21 match against Luton Town, the London club has been struggling to win matches consistently. Describing the call as "a very difficult decision", Chelsea thanked Lampard for his contribution as the head coach of the club while adding the recent performances have not met club's expectations. Lampard, who had helped Chelsea finish fourth in the Premier League 2019-20 season despite having a transfer ban, enjoyed a good start in the ongoing season but the performances have gone downward since December. Chelsea boss Roman Abramovich said that under the current circumstances, the hierarchy thought it is the best to change managers. Chelsea went on to sign the likes of Timo Werner, Kai Havertz, Ben Chilwell among others, the club has failed to stitch a series of positive results recently. Chelsea, in the ongoing 2020-21 season, were off to a rollicking start but fell off the radar with players hitting off-form at the wrong time of the season. Chelsea Football Club has today parted company with Head Coach Frank Lampard. — Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) January 25, 2021 × Full Statement from Chelsea on Frank Lampard's sacking: This has been a very difficult decision, and not one that the owner and the Board have taken lightly. We are grateful to Frank for what he has achieved in his time as Head Coach of the Club. However, recent results and performances have not met the Club’s expectations, leaving the Club mid-table without any clear path to sustained improvement. There can never be a good time to part ways with a club legend such as Frank, but after lengthy deliberation and consideration, it was decided a change is needed now to give the Club time to improve performances and results this season. Roman Abramovich said, “This was a very difficult decision for the Club, not least because I have an excellent personal relationship with Frank and I have the utmost respect for him’. “He is a man of great integrity and has the highest of work ethics. However, under current circumstances, we believe it is best to change manage “On behalf of everyone at the Club, the Board and personally, I would like to thank Frank for his work as Head Coach and wish him every success in the future. He is an important icon of this great club and his status here remains undiminished. He will always be warmly welcomed back at Stamford Bridge.” The Club will be making no further comment until such time as a new Head Coach is appointed.

Premier League: Chelsea sack manager Frank Lampard

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> club Chelsea are all set to sack Frank Lampard hours after London club's FA Cup win over Luton Town. Chelsea could make the&nbsp;decision to sack Lampard official as soon as today after the players were asked not to report to the training ground until Monday afternoon ahead of their league game against Wolves, scheduled to be played on Wednesday.&nbsp;

According to the Telegraph, Chelsea will sack Lampard as soon as on Monday with the Blues suffering from a torrid run of form in the English top-flight.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While Chelsea won their FA Cup match against Luton Town 3-1, the Blues have struggled to stitch positive results of late. Chelsea have won just four matches, including the win against Luton Town, in their last 10 games across&nbsp;competition.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/what-has-gone-wrong-in-liverpools-title-defence-357895" hreflang="en">What has gone wrong in Liverpool's title defence?</a>

While Chelsea won their matches&nbsp;against&nbsp;Luton Town, Fulham, Morecambe and West Ham, they have suffered defeats against Leicester City, Manchester City, Arsenal, Wolves, Everton and drew against Aston Villa.&nbsp;

Lampard, a Chelsea legend as a player, was appointed the manager of the club&nbsp;in 2019 on a three-year-deal. While Lampard guided Chelsea to a top-four finish despite being struck by a transfer ban, he was backed heavily by the board as the&nbsp;London club splashed big money to sign high-profile players in the summer transfer window.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Chelsea went on to sign the likes of Timo Werner, Kai&nbsp;Havertz, Ben Chilwell among others, the club has failed to stitch a series of positive results recently. Chelsea, in the ongoing 2020-21 season, were off to a&nbsp;rollicking&nbsp;start but fell off the radar with players&nbsp;hitting off-form at the wrong time of the season.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-vs-burnley-sean-dyche-opens-up-on-jurgen-klopp-tunnel-bust-up-358620" hreflang="en">Liverpool vs Burnley: Sean Dyche opens up on Jurgen Klopp tunnel bust-up</a>

There was a general notion that Lampard was being backed by the Chelsea board as he is a legendary player for the club but it looks like the hierarchy had enough and wants a new manager to take the charge at the Stamford Bridge.&nbsp;

Thomas Tuchel, who was recently sacked by Paris Saint-Germain, is&nbsp;favourite&nbsp;to be appointed the next Chelsea manager.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Premier League club Chelsea are all set to sack Frank Lampard hours after London club's FA Cup win over Luton Town. Chelsea could make the decision to sack Lampard official as soon as today after the players were asked not to report to the training ground until Monday afternoon ahead of their league game against Wolves, scheduled to be played on Wednesday.

Premier League club Chelsea are all set to sack Frank Lampard hours after London club's FA Cup win over Luton Town. Chelsea could make the decision to sack Lampard official as soon as today after the players were asked not to report to the training ground until Monday afternoon ahead of their league game against Wolves, scheduled to be played on Wednesday. According to the Telegraph, Chelsea will sack Lampard as soon as on Monday with the Blues suffering from a torrid run of form in the English top-flight. While Chelsea won their FA Cup match against Luton Town 3-1, the Blues have struggled to stitch positive results of late. Chelsea have won just four matches, including the win against Luton Town, in their last 10 games across competition. ALSO READ: What has gone wrong in Liverpool's title defence? While Chelsea won their matches against Luton Town, Fulham, Morecambe and West Ham, they have suffered defeats against Leicester City, Manchester City, Arsenal, Wolves, Everton and drew against Aston Villa. Lampard, a Chelsea legend as a player, was appointed the manager of the club in 2019 on a three-year-deal. While Lampard guided Chelsea to a top-four finish despite being struck by a transfer ban, he was backed heavily by the board as the London club splashed big money to sign high-profile players in the summer transfer window. Chelsea went on to sign the likes of Timo Werner, Kai Havertz, Ben Chilwell among others, the club has failed to stitch a series of positive results recently. Chelsea, in the ongoing 2020-21 season, were off to a rollicking start but fell off the radar with players hitting off-form at the wrong time of the season. ALSO READ: Liverpool vs Burnley: Sean Dyche opens up on Jurgen Klopp tunnel bust-up There was a general notion that Lampard was being backed by the Chelsea board as he is a legendary player for the club but it looks like the hierarchy had enough and wants a new manager to take the charge at the Stamford Bridge. Thomas Tuchel, who was recently sacked by Paris Saint-Germain, is favourite to be appointed the next Chelsea manager.

Chelsea set to sack Frank Lampard, Thomas Tuchel favourite to takeover

The Bucs survived a second-half resurgence from the Green Bay Packers on Sunday to win the NFC Championship and punch their ticket to the Super Bowl, where they will be the first team to contend for the Lombardi Trophy in their home stadium.

“We’re coming home and we’re coming home to win!” Tampa Bay head coach Bruce Arians announced on-air after the Bucs outlasted the Packers 31-26.

Super Bowl host cities are typically selected years in advance, with team owners voting for their favored bids, and Tampa was named Super Bowl 55’s host in 2017.

The closest an NFL team has come to playing the Super Bowl on their own turf before was 36 years ago, when the San Francisco 49ers defeated the Miami Dolphins 38-16 at Super Bowl XIX inside Stanford University’s Stanford Stadium in California.

With only 22,000 fans allowed inside the 65,618-capacity Raymond James Stadium and the usual bustling Super Bowl party scene largely canceled due to COVID-19, the celebration in Tampa will be comparatively tame.

But city officials and a grateful Bucs fan base on Sunday were already cheering for the possibility of Brady claiming his seventh Super Bowl ring in his new adopted hometown.

“FIRE THE CANNONS! Our @Buccaneers are coming HOME to play in Super Bowl LV!!!” the City of Tampa tweeted after Brady clinched a spot in his 10th Super Bowl, in his first year on the team after a two-decade-long tenure with the New England Patriots.

“What a year for Tampa sports,” wrote Tampa Bay Lightning Captain Steven Stamkos, who brought home the Stanley Cup in September. “@TomBrady is the GOAT for a reason. A Super Bowl championship in Tampa would be a great birthday present for me this year.”

The Bucs survived a second-half resurgence from the Green Bay Packers on Sunday to win the NFC Championship and punch their ticket to the Super Bowl, where they will be the first team to contend for the Lombardi Trophy in their home stadium.

The Bucs survived a second-half resurgence from the Green Bay Packers on Sunday to win the NFC Championship and punch their ticket to the Super Bowl, where they will be the first team to contend for the Lombardi Trophy in their home stadium. “We’re coming home and we’re coming home to win!” Tampa Bay head coach Bruce Arians announced on-air after the Bucs outlasted the Packers 31-26. Super Bowl host cities are typically selected years in advance, with team owners voting for their favored bids, and Tampa was named Super Bowl 55’s host in 2017. The closest an NFL team has come to playing the Super Bowl on their own turf before was 36 years ago, when the San Francisco 49ers defeated the Miami Dolphins 38-16 at Super Bowl XIX inside Stanford University’s Stanford Stadium in California. With only 22,000 fans allowed inside the 65,618-capacity Raymond James Stadium and the usual bustling Super Bowl party scene largely canceled due to COVID-19, the celebration in Tampa will be comparatively tame. But city officials and a grateful Bucs fan base on Sunday were already cheering for the possibility of Brady claiming his seventh Super Bowl ring in his new adopted hometown. “FIRE THE CANNONS! Our @Buccaneers are coming HOME to play in Super Bowl LV!!!” the City of Tampa tweeted after Brady clinched a spot in his 10th Super Bowl, in his first year on the team after a two-decade-long tenure with the New England Patriots. “What a year for Tampa sports,” wrote Tampa Bay Lightning Captain Steven Stamkos, who brought home the Stanley Cup in September. “@TomBrady is the GOAT for a reason. A Super Bowl championship in Tampa would be a great birthday present for me this year.”

No place like home: Bucs first team to vie for Super Bowl prize on home turf

Delhi Bulls, one of Abu Dhabi T10 League’s leading franchises, has launched their team’s jersey for the 4th edition of the exhilarating league. The shortest format of the game is being touted as the next big thing in cricket, and the jersey’s new design exemplifies the rush and fan frenzy evoked by the team’s cricketing talents.

Fans from across the world witnessed captain Dwayne&nbsp;Bravo&nbsp;sporting the new jersey. The event had a one-of-a-kind launch, which involved a live virtual engagement with Bollywood celebrity Sunny Leone, donning the new team graphics. Delhi Bulls recently decided to retain Sunny Leone as the Official Brand Ambassador of the team for 2021 edition as well, as they believe that she continues to ooze confidence and class, and possesses a ‘never say never attitude’, which is in line with the Delhi Bulls team’s core values.

Speaking about the launch, Delhi Bulls’ official brand ambassador,&nbsp;Sunny Leone, said,&nbsp;“I have been eagerly waiting for the 4th edition of the T10 league to commence, and I am delighted and honoured to be associated with Delhi Bulls. I am excited about cheering for the team once again, and I really want us to win the league this time. I wish the team and staff all the success in the upcoming season.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/how-are-virat-kohli-ajinkya-rahane-different-as-captains-r-ashwin-gives-his-take-359178" hreflang="en">How are Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane different as captains? R Ashwin gives his take</a>

The theme of the new jersey represents the new and energised team that has been onboarded, which includes coach Andy Flower and explosive West Indian all-rounder and Delhi Bulls’ new captain Dwayne&nbsp;Bravo. Their combination worked wonders last season, as they led the previous team to victory. After taking over the reins of captaincy from Eoin Morgan, Dwayne and his team will be working their magic for Delhi Bulls this season. An incredible mix of several marquee pacers and hitters have made it to this season’s squad, including T20 biggies like Mohammad Nabi, Evin Lewis, Ravi Bopara, Ali Khan, and Sherfane Rutherford, among others.

Speaking at the jersey launch event, Delhi Bulls’ Owner,&nbsp;Neelesh Bhatnagar, said,&nbsp;“The much-awaited 4th season is finally here, and the team has put in a lot of hard work to make it happen during such trying times. The jersey’s new design is phenomenal, and I just cannot wait to wear it for all the games. Additionally, we are happy to bring Sunny Leone back onboard as our Brand Ambassador, and hope we have an enriching and competitive season that leads us to the cup.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/6-indian-cricketers-got-this-special-gift-from-anand-mahindra-for-their-historic-win-against-australia-358802" hreflang="en">6 Indian cricketers got this special gift from Anand Mahindra for their historic win against Australia</a>

The 2021 edition of the Abu Dhabi T10 League will commence from the 28th of January.

Delhi Bulls, one of Abu Dhabi T10 League’s leading franchises, has launched their team’s jersey for the 4th edition of the exhilarating league. The shortest format of the game is being touted as the next big thing in cricket, and the jersey’s new design exemplifies the rush and fan frenzy evoked by the team’s cricketing talents.

Delhi Bulls, one of Abu Dhabi T10 League’s leading franchises, has launched their team’s jersey for the 4th edition of the exhilarating league. The shortest format of the game is being touted as the next big thing in cricket, and the jersey’s new design exemplifies the rush and fan frenzy evoked by the team’s cricketing talents. Fans from across the world witnessed captain Dwayne Bravo sporting the new jersey. The event had a one-of-a-kind launch, which involved a live virtual engagement with Bollywood celebrity Sunny Leone, donning the new team graphics. Delhi Bulls recently decided to retain Sunny Leone as the Official Brand Ambassador of the team for 2021 edition as well, as they believe that she continues to ooze confidence and class, and possesses a ‘never say never attitude’, which is in line with the Delhi Bulls team’s core values. Speaking about the launch, Delhi Bulls’ official brand ambassador, Sunny Leone, said, “I have been eagerly waiting for the 4th edition of the T10 league to commence, and I am delighted and honoured to be associated with Delhi Bulls. I am excited about cheering for the team once again, and I really want us to win the league this time. I wish the team and staff all the success in the upcoming season.” ALSO READ: How are Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane different as captains? R Ashwin gives his take The theme of the new jersey represents the new and energised team that has been onboarded, which includes coach Andy Flower and explosive West Indian all-rounder and Delhi Bulls’ new captain Dwayne Bravo. Their combination worked wonders last season, as they led the previous team to victory. After taking over the reins of captaincy from Eoin Morgan, Dwayne and his team will be working their magic for Delhi Bulls this season. An incredible mix of several marquee pacers and hitters have made it to this season’s squad, including T20 biggies like Mohammad Nabi, Evin Lewis, Ravi Bopara, Ali Khan, and Sherfane Rutherford, among others. Speaking at the jersey launch event, Delhi Bulls’ Owner, Neelesh Bhatnagar, said, “The much-awaited 4th season is finally here, and the team has put in a lot of hard work to make it happen during such trying times. The jersey’s new design is phenomenal, and I just cannot wait to wear it for all the games. Additionally, we are happy to bring Sunny Leone back onboard as our Brand Ambassador, and hope we have an enriching and competitive season that leads us to the cup.” ALSO READ: 6 Indian cricketers got this special gift from Anand Mahindra for their historic win against Australia The 2021 edition of the Abu Dhabi T10 League will commence from the 28th of January.

Abu Dhabi T10: Delhi Bulls unveil team jersey with captain Dwayne Bravo

Rishabh Pant had gone through a tough&nbsp;last 12 months due to his inconsistent run of form. With MS Dhoni going into a sabbatical after the ICC World Cup 2019, all eyes were on Pant to take the wicket-keeping duties with the additional responsibility of winning matches for India with the willow. However, Pant failed to hit&nbsp;consistent run with both gloves and bat and lost his spot in the playing XI across formats.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Pant was heavily&nbsp;criticised&nbsp;post-lockdown for his lack of fitness and continued to disappoint his fans with the bat.&nbsp;However, the southpaw turned the tables and helped India win the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2020-21&nbsp;by scoring the most runs by an Indian batsman in the series (274).&nbsp;Pant's&nbsp;aggressive approach and ability to hit the ball all around the park helped him dominate the likes of Nathan Lyon and Aussie pacers.&nbsp;

It was due to&nbsp;Pant's&nbsp;smashing 97-run knock that India came close to winning the Sydney Test before drawing it.&nbsp;His 89 not-out then helped India end Australia's 32-year-old unbeaten run at the Gabba in Brisbane as the visitors won the series 2-1.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/how-are-virat-kohli-ajinkya-rahane-different-as-captains-r-ashwin-gives-his-take-359178" hreflang="en">How are Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane different as captains? R Ashwin gives his take</a>

Pant, after returning back to India, reflected back on the phase where he was struggling to hit form.

"The journey from World Cup 2019 to this has been quite good so far. There have been ups and downs, the World Cup was a massive opportunity because it comes once in every 4 years. But I got out in my 30s, I was very disappointed because that was one of the biggest opportunities for me,” Pant told India Today.

"I was not happy that I couldn't win the game for my team. My career hit a low after the WC, but then slowly I started increasing my focus towards the game because there is always scope for improvement in life. I've realised that there is no limit to how much you can improve, that's what I've got to know in these last 2 years."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/get-him-in-there-brad-hogg-on-rishabh-pant-being-included-for-limited-over-series-359037" hreflang="en">'Get him in there': Brad Hogg on Rishabh Pant being included for limited-over series</a>

"I think good things will happen if you keep improving yourself and focus on the things that you want to do," Pant said.

When you're doing well people will write good but when you're not they will&nbsp;criticise&nbsp;you. It's part and parcel of a cricketer's life nowadays.&nbsp;So&nbsp;if you don't focus on the criticism and instead focus on your cricket then that's much&nbsp;better&nbsp;I guess," he added.&nbsp;

Pant will next feature in India's full-fledged home series against England, starting from February 5.&nbsp;

Rishabh Pant had gone through a tough last 12 months due to his inconsistent run of form. With MS Dhoni going into a sabbatical after the ICC World Cup 2019, all eyes were on Pant to take the wicket-keeping duties with the additional responsibility of winning matches for India with the willow.

Rishabh Pant had gone through a tough last 12 months due to his inconsistent run of form. With MS Dhoni going into a sabbatical after the ICC World Cup 2019, all eyes were on Pant to take the wicket-keeping duties with the additional responsibility of winning matches for India with the willow. However, Pant failed to hit consistent run with both gloves and bat and lost his spot in the playing XI across formats. Pant was heavily criticised post-lockdown for his lack of fitness and continued to disappoint his fans with the bat. However, the southpaw turned the tables and helped India win the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2020-21 by scoring the most runs by an Indian batsman in the series (274). Pant's aggressive approach and ability to hit the ball all around the park helped him dominate the likes of Nathan Lyon and Aussie pacers. It was due to Pant's smashing 97-run knock that India came close to winning the Sydney Test before drawing it. His 89 not-out then helped India end Australia's 32-year-old unbeaten run at the Gabba in Brisbane as the visitors won the series 2-1. ALSO READ: How are Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane different as captains? R Ashwin gives his take Pant, after returning back to India, reflected back on the phase where he was struggling to hit form. "The journey from World Cup 2019 to this has been quite good so far. There have been ups and downs, the World Cup was a massive opportunity because it comes once in every 4 years. But I got out in my 30s, I was very disappointed because that was one of the biggest opportunities for me,” Pant told India Today. "I was not happy that I couldn't win the game for my team. My career hit a low after the WC, but then slowly I started increasing my focus towards the game because there is always scope for improvement in life. I've realised that there is no limit to how much you can improve, that's what I've got to know in these last 2 years." ALSO READ: 'Get him in there': Brad Hogg on Rishabh Pant being included for limited-over series "I think good things will happen if you keep improving yourself and focus on the things that you want to do," Pant said. When you're doing well people will write good but when you're not they will criticise you. It's part and parcel of a cricketer's life nowadays. So if you don't focus on the criticism and instead focus on your cricket then that's much better I guess," he added. Pant will next feature in India's full-fledged home series against England, starting from February 5.

'My career hit a low after World Cup': Rishabh Pant reflects back on struggling phase

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