Australia coach Justin Langer gave under-fire skipper Tim Paine his "100 percent" support and blasted criticism of Steve Smith as "absolute rubbish" Wednesday after a backlash against their behaviour in the drawn third Test against India in Sydney.

Paine's captaincy has been questioned after he launched an ugly verbal tirade at India's Ravi Ashwin and Smith was accused of foul play after appearing to scuff up batsman Rishabh Pant's guard at the crease during a tense final day.

But an indignant Langer was having none of it.&nbsp;

"Do I have faith in Tim Paine? You have no idea how much faith I have in Tim Paine," he said on a Zoom call.

"He didn't have his best day, no doubt about that, but after three years he has hardly put a hair out of place.

"He has been outstanding as the Australian captain in everything he does. He had a frustrating day and we have got to cut him some slack, surely."

Wicketkeeper Paine, guilty of dropping three catches on the final day, has apologised and admitted frustration got the better of him when he tried to unsettle Ashwin, who held out for more than three hours for an unbeaten 39 as the tourists salvaged a draw.

Stump microphones picked up Paine making a series of barbs, including calling Ashwin a "dickhead".&nbsp;

Paine had already been fined for dissent after an expletive-laden rant at umpire Paul Wilson on day two, with the incidents undermining Langer's drive to revamp the team's toxic culture after the "Sandpaper-gate" ball-tampering scandal in 2018.

While backing Paine to continue as captain "for some time yet", Langer also acknowledged criticism would come if anyone deviated from the high standards the team now set themselves.

"When you set a standard as high as he does, and we do, we understand we get criticised when you fall below that. It's not what we are about," he said.

"But Tim is an outstanding leader and will continue to be for some time to come yet. He has my 100 percent support."

<h2>- 'A bit quirky' -</h2>

Footage of Smith, who was Australia's captain during the sandpaper scandal and banned for year, suggested he deliberately interfered with Pant's batting guard -- a mark made at the crease to know where your feet are in relation to the wicket behind you.

The number four is renowned for his quirks, including shadow-batting while fielding, and strongly denied doing anything wrong.

"As for Steve Smith, I literally cannot believe some of the rubbish I've read -- absolute load of rubbish," said Langer.&nbsp;

He took particular aim at England greats Michael Vaughan and Darren Gough, personally phoning them after they criticised Smith.

"I've actually spoken to Darren Gough about it and rang him last night," he told sports radio station SEN.

"I spoke to Michael Vaughan as well, I thought he was out of line actually.&nbsp;

"You get it from (some of the critics), but I don't expect it from (someone like Vaughan)."

He added that Smith was well known for his offbeat habits.

"Anyone who suggests for one millisecond he was trying to do something untoward, they're way out of line," he said.

"On that wicket, that was that flat, and it was like concrete, you'd need 15-inch spikes to make an indent on the crease and he went nowhere near the crease.

"So seriously, I thought that was absolutely ludicrous."

The fourth and final Test gets under way on Friday in Brisbane, with the series locked at 1-1.

Australia coach Justin Langer gave under-fire skipper Tim Paine his "100 percent" support and blasted criticism of Steve Smith as "absolute rubbish" Wednesday after a backlash against their behaviour in the drawn third Test against India in Sydney.

Australia coach Justin Langer gave under-fire skipper Tim Paine his "100 percent" support and blasted criticism of Steve Smith as "absolute rubbish" Wednesday after a backlash against their behaviour in the drawn third Test against India in Sydney. Paine's captaincy has been questioned after he launched an ugly verbal tirade at India's Ravi Ashwin and Smith was accused of foul play after appearing to scuff up batsman Rishabh Pant's guard at the crease during a tense final day. But an indignant Langer was having none of it. "Do I have faith in Tim Paine? You have no idea how much faith I have in Tim Paine," he said on a Zoom call. "He didn't have his best day, no doubt about that, but after three years he has hardly put a hair out of place. "He has been outstanding as the Australian captain in everything he does. He had a frustrating day and we have got to cut him some slack, surely." Wicketkeeper Paine, guilty of dropping three catches on the final day, has apologised and admitted frustration got the better of him when he tried to unsettle Ashwin, who held out for more than three hours for an unbeaten 39 as the tourists salvaged a draw. Stump microphones picked up Paine making a series of barbs, including calling Ashwin a "dickhead". Paine had already been fined for dissent after an expletive-laden rant at umpire Paul Wilson on day two, with the incidents undermining Langer's drive to revamp the team's toxic culture after the "Sandpaper-gate" ball-tampering scandal in 2018. While backing Paine to continue as captain "for some time yet", Langer also acknowledged criticism would come if anyone deviated from the high standards the team now set themselves. "When you set a standard as high as he does, and we do, we understand we get criticised when you fall below that. It's not what we are about," he said. "But Tim is an outstanding leader and will continue to be for some time to come yet. He has my 100 percent support." - 'A bit quirky' - Footage of Smith, who was Australia's captain during the sandpaper scandal and banned for year, suggested he deliberately interfered with Pant's batting guard -- a mark made at the crease to know where your feet are in relation to the wicket behind you. The number four is renowned for his quirks, including shadow-batting while fielding, and strongly denied doing anything wrong. "As for Steve Smith, I literally cannot believe some of the rubbish I've read -- absolute load of rubbish," said Langer. He took particular aim at England greats Michael Vaughan and Darren Gough, personally phoning them after they criticised Smith. "I've actually spoken to Darren Gough about it and rang him last night," he told sports radio station SEN. "I spoke to Michael Vaughan as well, I thought he was out of line actually. "You get it from (some of the critics), but I don't expect it from (someone like Vaughan)." He added that Smith was well known for his offbeat habits. "Anyone who suggests for one millisecond he was trying to do something untoward, they're way out of line," he said. "On that wicket, that was that flat, and it was like concrete, you'd need 15-inch spikes to make an indent on the crease and he went nowhere near the crease. "So seriously, I thought that was absolutely ludicrous." The fourth and final Test gets under way on Friday in Brisbane, with the series locked at 1-1.

'Absolute rubbish' - Langer goes into bat for Paine, Smith

Dark clouds and the threat of rain caused doubts for England captain Joe Root in choosing his side for the opening Test in Sri Lanka starting on Thursday.

The southern coastal city of Galle has seen several days of wet weather and more is predicted for the first of the two Tests, leaving the tourists wondering whether to use more pace on the usually spin friendly wicket.

"We have to consider conditions again, we've had quite a lot of rain over the last 24 hours, so we'll have another look at the wicket and make sure we're really clear on the XI we want to go into the game with," Root told reporters on Wednesday.

England are resuming a Sri Lankan tour that was aborted in March as the coronavirus pandemic fallout spread.

Root, who led England to a 3-0 sweep in Sri Lanka in 2018, said his batsmen should be ready to adapt on spin-friendly South Asian tracks as they look to repeat their success.&nbsp;

"That's one of the big challenges of coming and playing in Sri Lanka, and in the sub-continent, is that the rhythm of the game is so different to playing in English conditions," he said.

"There is a lot more spin, a lot more double spin and that's part and parcel of playing in this part of the world.

"Last time we felt like whoever adapted quickest and grabbed those big moments in the game won. And hopefully we can repeat that this time around."

<h2>- 'Reverse swing, hostile spell' -</h2>

However the star batsman said seamers could become a weapon in the wet conditions.

"Throughout the winter we will definitely try and exploit that as a tactic in these conditions, whether it is reverse swing or a slightly more hostile spell of bowling," said Root.

"I do think with the weather around that we have had – we have had quite a lot of rain and there is a lot of moisture around – so seam might play a bigger part."

James Anderson, Stuart Broad, Olly Stone and Mark Wood lead the visitors' pace choices for the first Test.

Chris Woakes is unlikely to play after being in isolation because of his close contact with Moeen Ali who tested positive for Covid-19 and is still under quarantine.

There are six spinners in the England party -- Dom Bess, Jack Leach and Moeen in the main squad, supplemented by reserves Mason Crane, Matt Parkinson and Amar Virdi.

Sri Lanka skipper Dimuth Karunaratne praised the opposition spinners but believes the hosts have learnt from their past mistakes.

"We never underestimate their bowlers," said Karunaratne.

"We know how the conditions are and have a few plans against them. We play our normal, fearless game. We have learnt a lot from the previous series and we will not do that mistake again."

Karunaratne also held back his team for the game but said Angelo Mathews and Dinesh Chandimal will play.

Dark clouds and the threat of rain caused doubts for England captain Joe Root in choosing his side for the opening Test in Sri Lanka starting on Thursday. The southern coastal city of Galle has seen several days of wet weather and more is predicted for the first of the two Tests, leaving the tourists wondering whether to use more pace on the usually spin friendly wicket.

Dark clouds and the threat of rain caused doubts for England captain Joe Root in choosing his side for the opening Test in Sri Lanka starting on Thursday. The southern coastal city of Galle has seen several days of wet weather and more is predicted for the first of the two Tests, leaving the tourists wondering whether to use more pace on the usually spin friendly wicket. "We have to consider conditions again, we've had quite a lot of rain over the last 24 hours, so we'll have another look at the wicket and make sure we're really clear on the XI we want to go into the game with," Root told reporters on Wednesday. England are resuming a Sri Lankan tour that was aborted in March as the coronavirus pandemic fallout spread. Root, who led England to a 3-0 sweep in Sri Lanka in 2018, said his batsmen should be ready to adapt on spin-friendly South Asian tracks as they look to repeat their success. "That's one of the big challenges of coming and playing in Sri Lanka, and in the sub-continent, is that the rhythm of the game is so different to playing in English conditions," he said. "There is a lot more spin, a lot more double spin and that's part and parcel of playing in this part of the world. "Last time we felt like whoever adapted quickest and grabbed those big moments in the game won. And hopefully we can repeat that this time around." - 'Reverse swing, hostile spell' - However the star batsman said seamers could become a weapon in the wet conditions. "Throughout the winter we will definitely try and exploit that as a tactic in these conditions, whether it is reverse swing or a slightly more hostile spell of bowling," said Root. "I do think with the weather around that we have had – we have had quite a lot of rain and there is a lot of moisture around – so seam might play a bigger part." James Anderson, Stuart Broad, Olly Stone and Mark Wood lead the visitors' pace choices for the first Test. Chris Woakes is unlikely to play after being in isolation because of his close contact with Moeen Ali who tested positive for Covid-19 and is still under quarantine. There are six spinners in the England party -- Dom Bess, Jack Leach and Moeen in the main squad, supplemented by reserves Mason Crane, Matt Parkinson and Amar Virdi. Sri Lanka skipper Dimuth Karunaratne praised the opposition spinners but believes the hosts have learnt from their past mistakes. "We never underestimate their bowlers," said Karunaratne. "We know how the conditions are and have a few plans against them. We play our normal, fearless game. We have learnt a lot from the previous series and we will not do that mistake again." Karunaratne also held back his team for the game but said Angelo Mathews and Dinesh Chandimal will play.

Galle rain keeps England's Root guessing on Sri Lanka selection

Two men's skiing World Cup slaloms this weekend which were moved to Kitzbuehel earlier this week were on Wednesday switched to Flachau after a suspected cluster of the UK coronavirus variant emerged in the Austrian Tyrol.

"For safety reasons, we don't want the races...to take place in Kitzbuehel this weekend," the Tyrol regional governor Guenther Platter told a press conference.

The races were originally scheduled for Wengen, but after racing at the Swiss resort was cancelled on Monday because of a rise in virus cases in the area, Kitzbuehel agreed to take two of its three races, a pair of slaloms this weekend.

The races will now be held in Flachau, in the neighbouring state of Salzburg.

Platter said these were being cancelled after the discovery of a suspected cluster of 17 cases of the more infectious variant of the coronavirus which originated in the UK.

Platter said the decision had been taken "so as not to leave ourselves open to the accusation that we weren't being careful".

Kitzbuehel is also playing host to two downhill races followed by a Super-G on the famous Streif piste down the Hahnenkamm mountain the following weekend, and Platter indicated that for the moment those would still be going ahead.

"If there are no major problems, next week's Hahnenkamm races can take place", added Platter.&nbsp;

The latest cancellation comes less than a month before the winter World Championships in Cortina d'Ampezzo (Italy, February 8-21).&nbsp;

After last season was cut short by the pandemic, this season is being skied without crowds.&nbsp;

France's Alexis Pinturault leads the 2020-21 World Cup overall standings.

Two men's skiing World Cup slaloms this weekend which were moved to Kitzbuehel earlier this week were on Wednesday switched to Flachau after a suspected cluster of the UK coronavirus variant emerged in the Austrian Tyrol.

Two men's skiing World Cup slaloms this weekend which were moved to Kitzbuehel earlier this week were on Wednesday switched to Flachau after a suspected cluster of the UK coronavirus variant emerged in the Austrian Tyrol. "For safety reasons, we don't want the races...to take place in Kitzbuehel this weekend," the Tyrol regional governor Guenther Platter told a press conference. The races were originally scheduled for Wengen, but after racing at the Swiss resort was cancelled on Monday because of a rise in virus cases in the area, Kitzbuehel agreed to take two of its three races, a pair of slaloms this weekend. The races will now be held in Flachau, in the neighbouring state of Salzburg. Platter said these were being cancelled after the discovery of a suspected cluster of 17 cases of the more infectious variant of the coronavirus which originated in the UK. Platter said the decision had been taken "so as not to leave ourselves open to the accusation that we weren't being careful". Kitzbuehel is also playing host to two downhill races followed by a Super-G on the famous Streif piste down the Hahnenkamm mountain the following weekend, and Platter indicated that for the moment those would still be going ahead. "If there are no major problems, next week's Hahnenkamm races can take place", added Platter. The latest cancellation comes less than a month before the winter World Championships in Cortina d'Ampezzo (Italy, February 8-21). After last season was cut short by the pandemic, this season is being skied without crowds. France's Alexis Pinturault leads the 2020-21 World Cup overall standings.

Ski World Cup races in Austria halted over Covid-19

Former England captain Michael Vaughan and former Australian batsman Mark Waugh on Wednesday&nbsp;got involved in a war of words&nbsp;over the controversy surrounding Steve Smith. There was massive outrage on social media platforms after Smith was seen scuffing up Rishabh&nbsp;Pant’s&nbsp;batting guard during&nbsp;Day 4 of the Sydney Test. While it was not blatant cheating, Smith was heavily&nbsp;criticised&nbsp;by the fans.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Vaughan posted a photograph which mentioned the rules of games&nbsp;when it comes to altering the condition of the pitch. However, Waugh was quick to reply to Vaughan.&nbsp;

“The Steve Smith incident has caused great debate ... I saw it as a silly thing for him to be doing but&nbsp;i&nbsp;didn’t have it as cheating ...the laws are above ... #OnOn ... What do we all think ??,” Vaughan tweeted.&nbsp;&nbsp;

To which Waugh replied:&nbsp;"You've lost your marbles&nbsp;Vaughney. I'd be more worried about deliberate time wasting in the modern game.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hanuma-vihari-shuts-down-mp-babul-supriyo-as-ashwin-goes-roflmax-356451" hreflang="en">Hanuma Vihari shuts down MP Babul Supriyo as Ashwin goes 'ROFLMAX'</a>

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You’ve lost your marbles Vaughney. I’d be more worried about deliberate time wasting in the modern game.🤷‍♂️
— Mark Waugh (@juniorwaugh349) <a href="https://twitter.com/juniorwaugh349/status/1349177518704656385?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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However, Vaughan was quick to hit back&nbsp;as he wrote that he would be keeping a close eye on whether Smith repeats the same in Brisbane.&nbsp;

Replying to Waugh, Vaughan said: "Are you struggling to read Junior ... as I have clearly stated it was silly &amp; not cheating but the laws are the laws ... btw let's see if he continues to do it in Brisbane if he does it all the time."&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/disgrace-fans-slam-steve-smith-tim-paine-matthew-wade-for-wayward-antics-in-sydney-test-355990" hreflang="en">'Disgrace': Fans slam Steve Smith, Tim Paine, Matthew Wade for wayward antics in Sydney Test</a>

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Are you struggling to read Junior ... as I have clearly stated it was silly &amp; not cheating but the laws are the laws ... btw let’s see if he continues to do it in Brisbane if he does it all the time :.. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OnOn?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OnOn</a> <a href="https://t.co/JoYunJn8X2">https://t.co/JoYunJn8X2</a>
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelVaughan/status/1349269844307415041?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, Smith said he was shocked and disappointed to see the outrage over the video of him scuffing up the batting crease as he said it was something he does during matches.&nbsp;

"I have been quite shocked and disappointed by the reaction to this. It's something I do in games to&nbsp;visualise&nbsp;where we are bowling, how the batter is playing our bowlers and then out of habit I always mark&nbsp;centre," Smith told the Daily Telegraph, as reported by Fox Sports.&nbsp;

Former England captain Michael Vaughan and former Australian batsman Mark Waugh on Wednesday got involved in a war of words over the controversy surrounding Steve Smith.

Former England captain Michael Vaughan and former Australian batsman Mark Waugh on Wednesday got involved in a war of words over the controversy surrounding Steve Smith. There was massive outrage on social media platforms after Smith was seen scuffing up Rishabh Pant’s batting guard during Day 4 of the Sydney Test. While it was not blatant cheating, Smith was heavily criticised by the fans. Vaughan posted a photograph which mentioned the rules of games when it comes to altering the condition of the pitch. However, Waugh was quick to reply to Vaughan. “The Steve Smith incident has caused great debate ... I saw it as a silly thing for him to be doing but i didn’t have it as cheating ...the laws are above ... #OnOn ... What do we all think ??,” Vaughan tweeted. To which Waugh replied: "You've lost your marbles Vaughney. I'd be more worried about deliberate time wasting in the modern game.” ALSO READ: Hanuma Vihari shuts down MP Babul Supriyo as Ashwin goes 'ROFLMAX' You’ve lost your marbles Vaughney. I’d be more worried about deliberate time wasting in the modern game.🤷‍♂️ — Mark Waugh (@juniorwaugh349) January 13, 2021 × However, Vaughan was quick to hit back as he wrote that he would be keeping a close eye on whether Smith repeats the same in Brisbane. Replying to Waugh, Vaughan said: "Are you struggling to read Junior ... as I have clearly stated it was silly & not cheating but the laws are the laws ... btw let's see if he continues to do it in Brisbane if he does it all the time." ALSO READ: 'Disgrace': Fans slam Steve Smith, Tim Paine, Matthew Wade for wayward antics in Sydney Test Are you struggling to read Junior ... as I have clearly stated it was silly & not cheating but the laws are the laws ... btw let’s see if he continues to do it in Brisbane if he does it all the time :.. #OnOn https://t.co/JoYunJn8X2 — Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) January 13, 2021 × Earlier, Smith said he was shocked and disappointed to see the outrage over the video of him scuffing up the batting crease as he said it was something he does during matches. "I have been quite shocked and disappointed by the reaction to this. It's something I do in games to visualise where we are bowling, how the batter is playing our bowlers and then out of habit I always mark centre," Smith told the Daily Telegraph, as reported by Fox Sports.

Michael Vaughan, Mark Waugh involved in war of words over Steve Smith controversy

Josh Hazlewood has said that Australia’s impeccable record in Brisbane gives a slight edge to the hosts in the fourth and final Test against India, scheduled to start from January 15 at The Gabba. Hazlewood, ahead of the series decider, said that Aussies grow an extra leg when playing in Brisbane while adding that all Australians love playing there.&nbsp;

India, after making sensational comebacks in Melbourne and Sydney, will look to break Australia’s unbeaten run in Brisbane with the hosts yet to lose a match in the venue since 1988. Australia have played 31 matches in Brisbane since 1988 and have won 24 while drawing seven. &nbsp;

"All Australians love playing up there. We probably grow a leg given the record we've got. We know touring sides don't like to play there, so that puts us a bit ahead before a ball is bowled. I guess we thrive on that. It's an awesome place to play. Very much an Australian venue, I've always enjoyed playing there," Hazlewood told AAP.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-australias-josh-hazlewood-opens-up-on-england-and-india-series-ipl-2020-injuries-and-more-316469" hreflang="en">EXCLUSIVE: Australia's Josh Hazlewood opens up on England and India series, IPL 2020, injuries and more</a>

While Australia have almost their full-strength side, India, on the contrary, are a depleted, injury-plagued squad. While the likes of Ravindra Jadeja, Hanuma Vihari are out with injuries, there are doubts over Jasprit Bumrah, Mayank Agarwal and Ravichandran Ashwin, which may force the visitors to field an inexperienced playing XI.&nbsp;

If Bumrah doesn’t start then India will have a pace attack, which will be led by two-Test old Mohammed Siraj. On Australia’s fatigue and workload, Hazlewood was confident that the pace troika can pull through the final Test.

"It's probably the freshest we have felt while turning up to Sydney at this time of year, for a very long time," Hazlewood said.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Back to back is fine ... even if we bowl 40-plus overs here, we'll be OK for Brisbane."&nbsp;

Josh Hazlewood has said that Australia’s impeccable record in Brisbane gives a slight edge to the hosts in the fourth and final Test against India, scheduled to start from January 15 at The Gabba.

Josh Hazlewood has said that Australia’s impeccable record in Brisbane gives a slight edge to the hosts in the fourth and final Test against India, scheduled to start from January 15 at The Gabba. Hazlewood, ahead of the series decider, said that Aussies grow an extra leg when playing in Brisbane while adding that all Australians love playing there. India, after making sensational comebacks in Melbourne and Sydney, will look to break Australia’s unbeaten run in Brisbane with the hosts yet to lose a match in the venue since 1988. Australia have played 31 matches in Brisbane since 1988 and have won 24 while drawing seven. "All Australians love playing up there. We probably grow a leg given the record we've got. We know touring sides don't like to play there, so that puts us a bit ahead before a ball is bowled. I guess we thrive on that. It's an awesome place to play. Very much an Australian venue, I've always enjoyed playing there," Hazlewood told AAP. ALSO READ: EXCLUSIVE: Australia's Josh Hazlewood opens up on England and India series, IPL 2020, injuries and more While Australia have almost their full-strength side, India, on the contrary, are a depleted, injury-plagued squad. While the likes of Ravindra Jadeja, Hanuma Vihari are out with injuries, there are doubts over Jasprit Bumrah, Mayank Agarwal and Ravichandran Ashwin, which may force the visitors to field an inexperienced playing XI. If Bumrah doesn’t start then India will have a pace attack, which will be led by two-Test old Mohammed Siraj. On Australia’s fatigue and workload, Hazlewood was confident that the pace troika can pull through the final Test. "It's probably the freshest we have felt while turning up to Sydney at this time of year, for a very long time," Hazlewood said. "Back to back is fine ... even if we bowl 40-plus overs here, we'll be OK for Brisbane."

Brisbane record gives Australia edge over India: Josh Hazlewood

Saina Nehwal on Wednesday defeated Malaysia's Kisona Sevaduray 21-15, 21-15 in the first round of Thailand Open. Saina, with the thumping win, advances to the second round of the tournament. The win shows Saina's incredible mental toughness as she came back roaring after all the hiccups she faced on Tuesday relating to her COVID-19 test report.

Saina dominated the match from the word go to quickly take an 11-5 lead at the first break. She went on to wrap the first set 21-15. The Olympic gold-medallist maintained the intensity in the second set and quickly took an 11-5 lead. While Selvaduray tried to come back, Saina wrapped up the second set 21-15 to race into the second round of Thailand Open by winning the match in straight sets.

Saina's thumping win over Selvaduray comes a day after she was reported to have tested positive for the dreaded coronavirus. However, it was a false positive test as her antibody IgG was positive as well.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/saina-nehwal-hs-prannoy-cleared-to-play-in-thailand-open-356296" hreflang="en">Saina Nehwal, HS Prannoy cleared to play in Thailand Open</a>

"BWF and Badminton Association of Thailand can confirm three of the four players who tested positive for COVID-19 earlier today at the Asian Leg of the HSBC BWF World Tour have been cleared to take their place in the draw.

“They are confirmed as Saina Nehwal (India), HS Prannoy (India), and Jones Ralfy Jansen (Germany). The fourth player, Adham Hatem Elgamal from Egypt, has been withdrawn," the BWF said in a statement.

"Nehwal, Prannoy and Jansen tested positive on the PCR test but their antibody IgG was positive. A positive antibody test means a person has been infected with the COVID-19 virus at some point in the past. It does not mean they are currently infected.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hanuma-vihari-shuts-down-mp-babul-supriyo-as-ashwin-goes-roflmax-356451" hreflang="en">Hanuma Vihari shuts down MP Babul Supriyo as Ashwin goes 'ROFLMAX'</a>

“The trio all contracted COVID-19 in late 2020. The committee was satisfied that they are not infected and do not pose a danger to the tournament," it added.

Earlier on Wednesday, former world number one Kidambi Srikanth advanced to the second round of Thailand Open after winning against Indian opponent Sourabh Verma in straight sets. Srikanth won the first set 21-12 and the second set 21-11 to wrap up the match in just 31 minutes.

Whereas the men's doubles pair of Chirag Shetty and Satwiksairaj Rankireddy bounced back in their opener against South Korea's Kim Gi Jung and Lee Young Dae 19-21, 21-16, 21-14. While N Sikki Reddy and Sumeeth Reddy B lost their match to Chung Man Tang and Yong Suet Tse, ace shuttler Parupalli Kashyap crashed out of the tournament after retiring hurt in the third set against Jason Anthony.

Saina Nehwal on Wednesday defeated Malaysia's Kisona Sevaduray 21-15, 21-15 in the first round of Thailand Open. Saina, with the thumping win, advances to the second round of the tournament.

Saina Nehwal on Wednesday defeated Malaysia's Kisona Sevaduray 21-15, 21-15 in the first round of Thailand Open. Saina, with the thumping win, advances to the second round of the tournament. The win shows Saina's incredible mental toughness as she came back roaring after all the hiccups she faced on Tuesday relating to her COVID-19 test report. Saina dominated the match from the word go to quickly take an 11-5 lead at the first break. She went on to wrap the first set 21-15. The Olympic gold-medallist maintained the intensity in the second set and quickly took an 11-5 lead. While Selvaduray tried to come back, Saina wrapped up the second set 21-15 to race into the second round of Thailand Open by winning the match in straight sets. Saina's thumping win over Selvaduray comes a day after she was reported to have tested positive for the dreaded coronavirus. However, it was a false positive test as her antibody IgG was positive as well. ALSO READ: Saina Nehwal, HS Prannoy cleared to play in Thailand Open "BWF and Badminton Association of Thailand can confirm three of the four players who tested positive for COVID-19 earlier today at the Asian Leg of the HSBC BWF World Tour have been cleared to take their place in the draw. “They are confirmed as Saina Nehwal (India), HS Prannoy (India), and Jones Ralfy Jansen (Germany). The fourth player, Adham Hatem Elgamal from Egypt, has been withdrawn," the BWF said in a statement. "Nehwal, Prannoy and Jansen tested positive on the PCR test but their antibody IgG was positive. A positive antibody test means a person has been infected with the COVID-19 virus at some point in the past. It does not mean they are currently infected. ALSO READ: Hanuma Vihari shuts down MP Babul Supriyo as Ashwin goes 'ROFLMAX' “The trio all contracted COVID-19 in late 2020. The committee was satisfied that they are not infected and do not pose a danger to the tournament," it added. Earlier on Wednesday, former world number one Kidambi Srikanth advanced to the second round of Thailand Open after winning against Indian opponent Sourabh Verma in straight sets. Srikanth won the first set 21-12 and the second set 21-11 to wrap up the match in just 31 minutes. Whereas the men's doubles pair of Chirag Shetty and Satwiksairaj Rankireddy bounced back in their opener against South Korea's Kim Gi Jung and Lee Young Dae 19-21, 21-16, 21-14. While N Sikki Reddy and Sumeeth Reddy B lost their match to Chung Man Tang and Yong Suet Tse, ace shuttler Parupalli Kashyap crashed out of the tournament after retiring hurt in the third set against Jason Anthony.

Thailand Open: Saina Nehwal defeats Kisona Selvaduray to race into second round

The LaLiga 2020-21 season has been full of surprises. While both the giants Real Madrid and Barcelona started the league on a sluggish note before picking up pace, the likes of Atletico Madrid, Real Sociedad, Villareal, Sevilla among others have flourished to leave the football fans hooked to their screens. &nbsp;

While it hasn’t been the easiest of the season when it comes to organising or even playing matches behind closed doors amid the COVID-19 pandemic, LaLiga has come out on top to produce some great football.&nbsp;

Former Real Madrid midfielder and La Liga ambassador, Fernando Hierro on Wednesday admitted that it has been a complicated season when it comes to playing or watching football as he said, as a footballer, it was always about the electric atmosphere in the Spanish club or during European competitions. The former Spanish international further lauded the quality of the Spanish top-flight as he said that the quality of players and clubs this season have made the LaLiga more exciting to watch as a fan of the game.&nbsp;

When asked for his perspective as a former player about how he looks at the table, which is pretty tight in the middle and bottom, Hierro said he has been left surprised to see Valencia (16th) sitting so low in the table while adding that the competition in the league has grown. As a former Valladolid player, Hierro wished his former club hit form soon.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/messi-on-form-a-new-american-star-and-bayern-beaten-talking-points-from-around-europe-356099" hreflang="en">Messi on form, a new American star and Bayern beaten: Talking points from around Europe</a>

“I am surprised. Valencia have got great players. There are teams bottom of the table who are changing coaches. Huesca, Osasuna, Alaves...Valladolid, I played there for two years with Ronaldo as the chairman. The teams are pretty equal and I think we will have to wait for the end of the season to know who the relegated teams are, it is that tight. La Liga has been very competitive this season. I am very surprised Valencia are so low in the table,” Fernando Hierro, LaLiga ambassador and a legend of the game said answered WION’s query during a media interaction.&nbsp;

“I was lucky to have watched the last Madrid derby between Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid as a LaLiga ambassador. It is difficult for the fans and local clubs to play matches in front of empty stands. It's very complicated. You know it is a special year with lots of matches lined up and this season, the teams are quite equal. What's important is for the players is to not get injured and COVID-19 has affected a lot. It is a difficult year for players, trainers and all involved in the football industry. I think LaLiga and the clubs are putting a lot of efforts to make sure the season goes without any major problems,” the former Spanish international further said. &nbsp;

<img alt="Fernando Hierro" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c74b98fb-1799-42e6-85c8-776d142b1cdd" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Hierro1.JPG" />

Hierro further heaped praise on Real Sociedad, who have touched new heights under the management of Alguacil Imanol and new signing David Silva. &nbsp;

“Real Sociedad have surprised me the most because there are many lively players. I like Sevilla a lot too. Villareal started off well. Real Madrid and Barcelona are always there. Of course, they started a bit low and it is difficult with all the competitions in Champions League and Super Cup. Villareal is another team. Atletico Madrid are consistent and that is why they are four points clear in the top of the table,” the former Real Madrid midfielder with 601 appearances for Los Merengues said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/lionel-messi-gerd-muller-pele-players-with-most-goals-scored-for-one-club-351886" hreflang="en">Lionel Messi, Gerd Müller, Pele: Players with most goals scored for one club</a>

However, with the January transfer window going on and summer transfer window approaching, the biggest question among the football fans remain whether Lionel Messi will sign a new contract with Barcelona or not. Even the future of Real Madrid defender Sergio Ramos is hanging in balance. When asked if Messi and Ramos’ departure will have an impact on LaLiga, Hierro cited the examples of Neymar and Cristiano Ronaldo as he said the structure and competitive nature of the league make LaLiga a worldwide spectacle. &nbsp;

“Messi came in as a young Argentian player. But clubs go through a lot of rebuilding. Barcelona are going to have presidential elections now and I think, Messi's next move will depend on who the next Barcelona president is and club's project. It is a special case of Messi and even Sergio Ramos for that instance. They represent two of the best clubs in the world. The likes of Neymar and Cristiano Ronaldo left as well but the structure and competitive nature of La Liga are above individual players. The El Clasicos, derbies - it is a worldwide spectacle more than just individuals. But having said that, I would want both Messi and Ramos to continue in LaLiga,” Hierro said.&nbsp;

With game week 19 of LaLiga set to start from January 19, fans can watch all matches of LaLiga on Facebook Watch as the second phase of the league awaits.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;

The LaLiga 2020-21 season has been full of surprises. While both the giants Real Madrid and Barcelona started the league on a sluggish note before picking up pace, the likes of Atletico Madrid, Real Sociedad, Villareal, Sevilla among others have flourished to leave the football fans hooked to their screens.

The LaLiga 2020-21 season has been full of surprises. While both the giants Real Madrid and Barcelona started the league on a sluggish note before picking up pace, the likes of Atletico Madrid, Real Sociedad, Villareal, Sevilla among others have flourished to leave the football fans hooked to their screens. While it hasn’t been the easiest of the season when it comes to organising or even playing matches behind closed doors amid the COVID-19 pandemic, LaLiga has come out on top to produce some great football. Former Real Madrid midfielder and La Liga ambassador, Fernando Hierro on Wednesday admitted that it has been a complicated season when it comes to playing or watching football as he said, as a footballer, it was always about the electric atmosphere in the Spanish club or during European competitions. The former Spanish international further lauded the quality of the Spanish top-flight as he said that the quality of players and clubs this season have made the LaLiga more exciting to watch as a fan of the game. When asked for his perspective as a former player about how he looks at the table, which is pretty tight in the middle and bottom, Hierro said he has been left surprised to see Valencia (16th) sitting so low in the table while adding that the competition in the league has grown. As a former Valladolid player, Hierro wished his former club hit form soon. ALSO READ: Messi on form, a new American star and Bayern beaten: Talking points from around Europe “I am surprised. Valencia have got great players. There are teams bottom of the table who are changing coaches. Huesca, Osasuna, Alaves...Valladolid, I played there for two years with Ronaldo as the chairman. The teams are pretty equal and I think we will have to wait for the end of the season to know who the relegated teams are, it is that tight. La Liga has been very competitive this season. I am very surprised Valencia are so low in the table,” Fernando Hierro, LaLiga ambassador and a legend of the game said answered WION’s query during a media interaction. “I was lucky to have watched the last Madrid derby between Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid as a LaLiga ambassador. It is difficult for the fans and local clubs to play matches in front of empty stands. It's very complicated. You know it is a special year with lots of matches lined up and this season, the teams are quite equal. What's important is for the players is to not get injured and COVID-19 has affected a lot. It is a difficult year for players, trainers and all involved in the football industry. I think LaLiga and the clubs are putting a lot of efforts to make sure the season goes without any major problems,” the former Spanish international further said. Hierro further heaped praise on Real Sociedad, who have touched new heights under the management of Alguacil Imanol and new signing David Silva. “Real Sociedad have surprised me the most because there are many lively players. I like Sevilla a lot too. Villareal started off well. Real Madrid and Barcelona are always there. Of course, they started a bit low and it is difficult with all the competitions in Champions League and Super Cup. Villareal is another team. Atletico Madrid are consistent and that is why they are four points clear in the top of the table,” the former Real Madrid midfielder with 601 appearances for Los Merengues said. ALSO READ: Lionel Messi, Gerd Müller, Pele: Players with most goals scored for one club However, with the January transfer window going on and summer transfer window approaching, the biggest question among the football fans remain whether Lionel Messi will sign a new contract with Barcelona or not. Even the future of Real Madrid defender Sergio Ramos is hanging in balance. When asked if Messi and Ramos’ departure will have an impact on LaLiga, Hierro cited the examples of Neymar and Cristiano Ronaldo as he said the structure and competitive nature of the league make LaLiga a worldwide spectacle. “Messi came in as a young Argentian player. But clubs go through a lot of rebuilding. Barcelona are going to have presidential elections now and I think, Messi's next move will depend on who the next Barcelona president is and club's project. It is a special case of Messi and even Sergio Ramos for that instance. They represent two of the best clubs in the world. The likes of Neymar and Cristiano Ronaldo left as well but the structure and competitive nature of La Liga are above individual players. The El Clasicos, derbies - it is a worldwide spectacle more than just individuals. But having said that, I would want both Messi and Ramos to continue in LaLiga,” Hierro said. With game week 19 of LaLiga set to start from January 19, fans can watch all matches of LaLiga on Facebook Watch as the second phase of the league awaits.

'LaLiga is beyond individuals': Fernando Hierro on Lionel Messi and Sergio Ramos contract situation

Indian cricketer Hanuma Vihari on Wednesday shut&nbsp;down Member of Parliament Babul Supriyo after an absurd tweet by the playback singer. Supriyo, after India’s drawn Test in Sydney, had blamed Vihari for not sealing India’s win and forcing it for a draw after a slow knock.&nbsp;Importantly, Supriyo even&nbsp;misspelt&nbsp;Vihari’s name as ‘Hanuma Bihari’ which infuriated the fans further.&nbsp;&nbsp;

After the Sydney Test when the entire world was hailing the efforts of Vihari and Ashwin, Babul Supriyo’s tweet took the fans by shock.&nbsp;

While Supriyo was central to major criticism by the fans, Hanuma Vihari on Wednesday took to Twitter to shut Supriyo with an impactful reply.&nbsp;Vihari’s reply went viral in a jiffy as fans lauded the Indian batsman and the hero of Sydney Test for shutting Supriyo.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Playing 109 balls to score 7 !That is atrocious to say the&nbsp;least•Hanuma&nbsp;Bihari has not only killed any Chance for India to achieve a historic win but has also murdered&nbsp;Cricket..&nbsp;not keeping win an option, even if remotely, is criminal. PS: I know that I know nothing&nbsp;abt&nbsp;cricket,” Supriyo had tweeted after the drawn Sydney Test.&nbsp;

To which the Indian batsman replied to simply correct the spelling of his name: "*Hanuma Vihari".

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-intervention-helps-team-india-get-swimming-pool-gym-housekeeping-staff-access-in-brisbane-356423" hreflang="en">BCCI intervention helps Team India get swimming pool, gym, housekeeping staff access in Brisbane</a>

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*Hanuma Vihari
— Hanuma vihari (@Hanumavihari) <a href="https://twitter.com/Hanumavihari/status/1349285961994182662?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Another hero of Sydney Test, Ravichandran Ashwin also posted a screenshot of the conversation and enjoyed the cracking reply by the Indian batsman.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-3rd-test-bruised-and-broken-but-sydney-was-conquered-356068" hreflang="en">Bruised and broken but Sydney was 'conquered'</a>

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ROFLMAX!! 😂😂😂 <a href="https://t.co/gIHpngYg3E">pic.twitter.com/gIHpngYg3E</a>
— Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99/status/1349305502312763392?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Fans enjoyed Vihari's response as most of them said it was the greatest reply of the new year.

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Tweet of 2021.
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) <a href="https://twitter.com/CricCrazyJohns/status/1349290553129668611?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://t.co/yzebfJNSZq">pic.twitter.com/yzebfJNSZq</a>
— Sarang Bhalerao (@bhaleraosarang) <a href="https://twitter.com/bhaleraosarang/status/1349310550316994565?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://t.co/iX26WLJrSQ">pic.twitter.com/iX26WLJrSQ</a>
— Vinesh Prabhu (@vlp1994) <a href="https://twitter.com/vlp1994/status/1349289201120866304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Killed him in 1 tweet.
— Abhinandan Nahata (@cricketgyani_an) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketgyani_an/status/1349288875298934784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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KING!
— Silly Point (@FarziCricketer) <a href="https://twitter.com/FarziCricketer/status/1349288397123190784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://t.co/l607PsWMzX">pic.twitter.com/l607PsWMzX</a>
— Kaushik (@iamnowayfunny) <a href="https://twitter.com/iamnowayfunny/status/1349288887424745472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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King Hanuma 💙💙🔥 <a href="https://t.co/K6u0o7D6Hu">pic.twitter.com/K6u0o7D6Hu</a>
— Circuit 🏏 Expert (@Being_circuit) <a href="https://twitter.com/Being_circuit/status/1349289815775215618?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The Indian cricket team, in the third Test against Australia in Sydney, achieved what has been hailed as one of the greatest draws in the history of Test cricket. With an injury-ravaged squad, the Indian team&nbsp;batted for 131 overs to save the Sydney Test. While the likes of&nbsp;Cheteshwar&nbsp;Pujara and Rishabh Pant started the great escape, Hanuma Vihari and Ravichandran Ashwin were the&nbsp;orchestrators for the visitors.&nbsp;

Vihari, who suffered a grade 2 tear in his hamstring, batted for around 3 hours and helped India save the Sydney Test from an almost impossible situation. To his plight,&nbsp;Vihari was even unable to walk properly when he was&nbsp;stitching&nbsp;the heroic partnership with Ashwin.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Even Ashwin had a back spasm and was even unable to tie his shoelaces or even sit properly during Day 5 of the Sydney Test. But the duo, despite being hit several times on their body by the world-class Australian bowling attack, continued to bat for the sake of their country and team.&nbsp;

Due to Ashwin and Vihari’s enormous effort, India drew the Sydney Test and kept the series alive at 1-1.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India and Australia will now lock horns in the fourth and final Test, scheduled to start from January 15, at The Gabba in Brisbane.&nbsp;

Indian cricketer Hanuma Vihari on Wednesday shut down Member of Parliament Babul Supriyo after an absurd tweet by the playback singer. Supriyo, after India’s drawn Test in Sydney, had blamed Vihari for not sealing India’s win and forcing it for a draw after a slow knock.

Indian cricketer Hanuma Vihari on Wednesday shut down Member of Parliament Babul Supriyo after an absurd tweet by the playback singer. Supriyo, after India’s drawn Test in Sydney, had blamed Vihari for not sealing India’s win and forcing it for a draw after a slow knock. Importantly, Supriyo even misspelt Vihari’s name as ‘Hanuma Bihari’ which infuriated the fans further. After the Sydney Test when the entire world was hailing the efforts of Vihari and Ashwin, Babul Supriyo’s tweet took the fans by shock. While Supriyo was central to major criticism by the fans, Hanuma Vihari on Wednesday took to Twitter to shut Supriyo with an impactful reply. Vihari’s reply went viral in a jiffy as fans lauded the Indian batsman and the hero of Sydney Test for shutting Supriyo. “Playing 109 balls to score 7 !That is atrocious to say the least•Hanuma Bihari has not only killed any Chance for India to achieve a historic win but has also murdered Cricket.. not keeping win an option, even if remotely, is criminal. PS: I know that I know nothing abt cricket,” Supriyo had tweeted after the drawn Sydney Test. To which the Indian batsman replied to simply correct the spelling of his name: "*Hanuma Vihari". ALSO READ: BCCI intervention helps Team India get swimming pool, gym, housekeeping staff access in Brisbane *Hanuma Vihari — Hanuma vihari (@Hanumavihari) January 13, 2021 × Another hero of Sydney Test, Ravichandran Ashwin also posted a screenshot of the conversation and enjoyed the cracking reply by the Indian batsman. ALSO READ: Bruised and broken but Sydney was 'conquered' ROFLMAX!! 😂😂😂 pic.twitter.com/gIHpngYg3E — Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) January 13, 2021 × Fans enjoyed Vihari's response as most of them said it was the greatest reply of the new year. Tweet of 2021. — Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) January 13, 2021 × pic.twitter.com/yzebfJNSZq — Sarang Bhalerao (@bhaleraosarang) January 13, 2021 × pic.twitter.com/iX26WLJrSQ — Vinesh Prabhu (@vlp1994) January 13, 2021 × Killed him in 1 tweet. — Abhinandan Nahata (@cricketgyani_an) January 13, 2021 × KING! — Silly Point (@FarziCricketer) January 13, 2021 × pic.twitter.com/l607PsWMzX — Kaushik (@iamnowayfunny) January 13, 2021 × King Hanuma 💙💙🔥 pic.twitter.com/K6u0o7D6Hu — Circuit 🏏 Expert (@Being_circuit) January 13, 2021 × The Indian cricket team, in the third Test against Australia in Sydney, achieved what has been hailed as one of the greatest draws in the history of Test cricket. With an injury-ravaged squad, the Indian team batted for 131 overs to save the Sydney Test. While the likes of Cheteshwar Pujara and Rishabh Pant started the great escape, Hanuma Vihari and Ravichandran Ashwin were the orchestrators for the visitors. Vihari, who suffered a grade 2 tear in his hamstring, batted for around 3 hours and helped India save the Sydney Test from an almost impossible situation. To his plight, Vihari was even unable to walk properly when he was stitching the heroic partnership with Ashwin. Even Ashwin had a back spasm and was even unable to tie his shoelaces or even sit properly during Day 5 of the Sydney Test. But the duo, despite being hit several times on their body by the world-class Australian bowling attack, continued to bat for the sake of their country and team. Due to Ashwin and Vihari’s enormous effort, India drew the Sydney Test and kept the series alive at 1-1. India and Australia will now lock horns in the fourth and final Test, scheduled to start from January 15, at The Gabba in Brisbane.

Hanuma Vihari shuts down MP Babul Supriyo as Ashwin goes 'ROFLMAX'

It has been a&nbsp;gruelling&nbsp;tour of Australia for the Indian cricket team and it got worse when the visitors faced difficult quarantine hurdles upon their arrival in Brisbane as they were not given access to the gym, swimming pool and the lift.&nbsp;The development forced the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)&nbsp;to intervene. Now, the situation has been resolved as the Indian team has been provided access to the gym, swimming pool and the lift whereas room service is also expected to be available before the end of the day.&nbsp;

The Indian team was even not provided room service in the Brisbane hotel which forced them to clean their own toilets and make their own beds. After playing through pain in the Sydney Test, the Indian team needs to have proper rest and facilities available to recover as they are an already depleted squad due to&nbsp;injury and can’t afford any other.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/varun-aaron-hospitalised-for-laryngitis-pulls-out-of-syed-mushtaq-ali-t20-356414" hreflang="en">Varun Aaron hospitalised for laryngitis, pulls out of Syed Mushtaq Ali T20</a>

According to India Today, the BCCI president and secretary Jay Shah got it touch with the Cricket Australia officials in a bid to make the basic facilities available for the visitors. According to the report,&nbsp;the BCCI had a word with captain Ajinkya Rahane and head coach Ravi Shastri to get first-hand information.&nbsp;

With just a couple of days to go for the fourth and final Test in Brisbane, the Indian cricket team is looking to make as much recovery as possible after battling it out for five days in Brisbane. The visitors may field a few inexperienced players with most of the senior players injured.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/absolute-rubbish-langer-goes-into-bat-for-paine-smith-356397" hreflang="en">'Absolute rubbish' - Langer goes into bat for Paine, Smith</a>

Ravindra Jadeja has been ruled out of the series while Hanuma Vihari it out as well. Ravichandran Ashwin is a doubt as is the case with&nbsp;Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah&nbsp;and Mayank Agarwal. Shardul Thakur, Washington Sundar and T Natarajan are in the fray to play in the Brisbane Test against Australia,&nbsp;&nbsp;

The fourth Test between India and Australia starts from January 15 at the Gabba in Brisbane.&nbsp;

It has been a gruelling tour of Australia for the Indian cricket team and it got worse when the visitors faced difficult quarantine hurdles upon their arrival in Brisbane as they were not given access to the gym, swimming pool and the lift.

It has been a gruelling tour of Australia for the Indian cricket team and it got worse when the visitors faced difficult quarantine hurdles upon their arrival in Brisbane as they were not given access to the gym, swimming pool and the lift. The development forced the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to intervene. Now, the situation has been resolved as the Indian team has been provided access to the gym, swimming pool and the lift whereas room service is also expected to be available before the end of the day. The Indian team was even not provided room service in the Brisbane hotel which forced them to clean their own toilets and make their own beds. After playing through pain in the Sydney Test, the Indian team needs to have proper rest and facilities available to recover as they are an already depleted squad due to injury and can’t afford any other. ALSO READ: Varun Aaron hospitalised for laryngitis, pulls out of Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 According to India Today, the BCCI president and secretary Jay Shah got it touch with the Cricket Australia officials in a bid to make the basic facilities available for the visitors. According to the report, the BCCI had a word with captain Ajinkya Rahane and head coach Ravi Shastri to get first-hand information. With just a couple of days to go for the fourth and final Test in Brisbane, the Indian cricket team is looking to make as much recovery as possible after battling it out for five days in Brisbane. The visitors may field a few inexperienced players with most of the senior players injured. ALSO READ: 'Absolute rubbish' - Langer goes into bat for Paine, Smith Ravindra Jadeja has been ruled out of the series while Hanuma Vihari it out as well. Ravichandran Ashwin is a doubt as is the case with Jasprit Bumrah and Mayank Agarwal. Shardul Thakur, Washington Sundar and T Natarajan are in the fray to play in the Brisbane Test against Australia, The fourth Test between India and Australia starts from January 15 at the Gabba in Brisbane.

BCCI intervention helps Team India get swimming pool, gym, housekeeping staff access in Brisbane

Indian pacer Varun Aaron has been&nbsp;hospitalised&nbsp;as he is suffering from&nbsp;laryngitis&nbsp;-&nbsp;an inflammation of throat from overuse, irritation or infection. Aaron, who played the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 for Rajasthan Royals,&nbsp;was&nbsp;part of the Jharkhand squad in the ongoing Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 but has now pulled out of the tournament due to laryngitis.&nbsp;The Indian speedster is currently hospitalized but is stable and is on his way to recovery.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Aaron played in Jharkhand’s Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 opener against Dinesh Karthik-led Tamil Nadu and bowled three overs in the match. However,&nbsp;Aaron went on to miss Jharkhand’s second match against Bengal in the domestic T20 tournament due to the infection.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Varun Aaron is currently&nbsp;hospitalised&nbsp;after suffering from laryngitis. He is being looked well by the doctors and is stable. Due to the development, Varun will not be able to play in the tournament and has pulled out,” a source&nbsp;privy to&nbsp;the development told WION.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jasprit-bumrah-doubtful-for-brisbane-test-as-injury-worries-grow-for-team-india-356228" hreflang="en">Jasprit Bumrah doubtful for Brisbane Test as injury worries grow for Team India</a>

Aaron was also part of Rajasthan Royals squad in IPL 2020 in the UAE and played three matches in the 13th&nbsp;edition of the tournament. While he failed to scalp a wicket, the pacer looked impressive in two of the matches – against Delhi Capitals and Kolkata Knight Riders – where he conceded 25 and 22 runs respectively.&nbsp;&nbsp;

As preparations for IPL 2021 begin, the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 is being looked as the preparatory step for the cash-rich tournament. The infection will be a huge blow for Aaron, who was looking to impress franchises ahead of IPL 2021 mini-auction.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-captain-tim-paine-apologises-for-sledging-against-ashwin-in-sydney-test-356168" hreflang="en">Australian captain Tim Paine apologises for sledging against Ashwin in Sydney Test</a>

Meanwhile, Jharkhand are currently sitting bottom of the Elite Group B after losing both their matches. And Aaron’s illness will only give more headaches&nbsp;to the camp.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Varun Aaron has played nine Tests as many ODIs for Team India while representing IPL franchises like Kings XI Punjab, Kolkata Knight Riders, Royal Challengers Bangalore and Rajasthan Royals.

Indian pacer Varun Aaron has been hospitalised as he is suffering from laryngitis - an inflammation of throat from overuse, irritation or infection. Aaron, who played the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 for Rajasthan Royals, was part of the Jharkhand squad in the ongoing Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 but has now pulled out of the tournament due to laryngitis.

Indian pacer Varun Aaron has been hospitalised as he is suffering from laryngitis - an inflammation of throat from overuse, irritation or infection. Aaron, who played the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 for Rajasthan Royals, was part of the Jharkhand squad in the ongoing Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 but has now pulled out of the tournament due to laryngitis. The Indian speedster is currently hospitalized but is stable and is on his way to recovery. Aaron played in Jharkhand’s Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 opener against Dinesh Karthik-led Tamil Nadu and bowled three overs in the match. However, Aaron went on to miss Jharkhand’s second match against Bengal in the domestic T20 tournament due to the infection. “Varun Aaron is currently hospitalised after suffering from laryngitis. He is being looked well by the doctors and is stable. Due to the development, Varun will not be able to play in the tournament and has pulled out,” a source privy to the development told WION. ALSO READ: Jasprit Bumrah doubtful for Brisbane Test as injury worries grow for Team India Aaron was also part of Rajasthan Royals squad in IPL 2020 in the UAE and played three matches in the 13th edition of the tournament. While he failed to scalp a wicket, the pacer looked impressive in two of the matches – against Delhi Capitals and Kolkata Knight Riders – where he conceded 25 and 22 runs respectively. As preparations for IPL 2021 begin, the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 is being looked as the preparatory step for the cash-rich tournament. The infection will be a huge blow for Aaron, who was looking to impress franchises ahead of IPL 2021 mini-auction. ALSO READ: Australian captain Tim Paine apologises for sledging against Ashwin in Sydney Test Meanwhile, Jharkhand are currently sitting bottom of the Elite Group B after losing both their matches. And Aaron’s illness will only give more headaches to the camp. Varun Aaron has played nine Tests as many ODIs for Team India while representing IPL franchises like Kings XI Punjab, Kolkata Knight Riders, Royal Challengers Bangalore and Rajasthan Royals.

Varun Aaron hospitalised for laryngitis, pulls out of Syed Mushtaq Ali T20

New Zealand captain Kane Williamson’s epic 238 in the second Test against Pakistan in Christchurch has helped him reach the best ever-rating points by a New Zealand player while consolidating his position at the top of the list of batsmen in the ICC Men's Test Players Rankings.

Williamson, named player of the series after leading his side to an innings and 176 runs win and a 2-0 victory in the two-Test series, has reached 919 rating points, bettering his own mark of 915 in December 2018. ICC Cricket Hall of Famer Richard Hadlee is the only other player from New Zealand to go past the 900-point mark, reaching a career-high 909 rating points in bowling in December 1985.

In the latest rankings update that includes the second Test between South Africa and Sri Lanka in Johannesburg and the third Test between Australia and India in Sydney, Steve Smith has leapfrogged Virat Kohli to second position after scores of 131 and 81 while Dean Elgar has moved to 13th&nbsp;position with knocks of 127 and 31 not out.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-captain-tim-paine-apologises-for-sledging-against-ashwin-in-sydney-test-356168" hreflang="en">Australian captain Tim Paine apologises for sledging against Ashwin in Sydney Test</a>

In other movement for New Zealand players, Henry Nicholls has gained three places to reach ninth among batsmen after his knock of 157 while fast bowler Kyle Jamieson’s match haul of 11-117 has lifted him seven places to a career-best 21st&nbsp;place. With 36 Test wickets so far, Jamieson is also fifth among all-rounders after only six Tests.

Azhar Ali’s knocks of 93 and 37 have helped him advance him seven places to 18th&nbsp;position and his compatriot Mohammad Rizwan’s first-innings half-century has helped him gain 10 places to reach 37th&nbsp;position.

The drawn Sydney Test saw Marun Labuschagne consolidate the fourth position with a career-best 866 rating points after scores of 91 and 73 while fast bowler Josh Hazlewood has gained three places to reach fifth position with four wickets in the match.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-3rd-test-bruised-and-broken-but-sydney-was-conquered-356068" hreflang="en">Bruised and broken but Sydney was 'conquered'</a>

For India, Cheteshwar Pujara’s knocks of 50 and 77 have taken him from eighth to 10th&nbsp;position and Rishabh Pant’s scores of 36 and 97 have helped him gain 19 places to reach 26th&nbsp;position. Hanuma Vihari and Ravichandran Ashwin too have gained after their fighting knocks, as has Shubman Gill.

The Centurion Test saw Anrich Nortje (up 10 places to 38th), Wiaan Mulder (up 22 places to 45th), Lutho Sipamla (up 23 places to 47th) and Lungi Ngidi (up seven places to 49th) make huge gains among bowlers while for Sri Lanka, captain Dimuth Karunaratne (up two places to 15th) and Kusal Perera (up four places to 56th) have moved up in the list of batsmen.

New Zealand captain Kane Williamson’s epic 238 in the second Test against Pakistan in Christchurch has helped him reach the best ever-rating points by a New Zealand player while consolidating his position at the top of the list of batsmen in the ICC Men's Test Players Rankings.

New Zealand captain Kane Williamson’s epic 238 in the second Test against Pakistan in Christchurch has helped him reach the best ever-rating points by a New Zealand player while consolidating his position at the top of the list of batsmen in the ICC Men's Test Players Rankings. Williamson, named player of the series after leading his side to an innings and 176 runs win and a 2-0 victory in the two-Test series, has reached 919 rating points, bettering his own mark of 915 in December 2018. ICC Cricket Hall of Famer Richard Hadlee is the only other player from New Zealand to go past the 900-point mark, reaching a career-high 909 rating points in bowling in December 1985. In the latest rankings update that includes the second Test between South Africa and Sri Lanka in Johannesburg and the third Test between Australia and India in Sydney, Steve Smith has leapfrogged Virat Kohli to second position after scores of 131 and 81 while Dean Elgar has moved to 13th position with knocks of 127 and 31 not out. ALSO READ: Australian captain Tim Paine apologises for sledging against Ashwin in Sydney Test In other movement for New Zealand players, Henry Nicholls has gained three places to reach ninth among batsmen after his knock of 157 while fast bowler Kyle Jamieson’s match haul of 11-117 has lifted him seven places to a career-best 21st place. With 36 Test wickets so far, Jamieson is also fifth among all-rounders after only six Tests. Azhar Ali’s knocks of 93 and 37 have helped him advance him seven places to 18th position and his compatriot Mohammad Rizwan’s first-innings half-century has helped him gain 10 places to reach 37th position. The drawn Sydney Test saw Marun Labuschagne consolidate the fourth position with a career-best 866 rating points after scores of 91 and 73 while fast bowler Josh Hazlewood has gained three places to reach fifth position with four wickets in the match. ALSO READ: Bruised and broken but Sydney was 'conquered' For India, Cheteshwar Pujara’s knocks of 50 and 77 have taken him from eighth to 10th position and Rishabh Pant’s scores of 36 and 97 have helped him gain 19 places to reach 26th position. Hanuma Vihari and Ravichandran Ashwin too have gained after their fighting knocks, as has Shubman Gill. The Centurion Test saw Anrich Nortje (up 10 places to 38th), Wiaan Mulder (up 22 places to 45th), Lutho Sipamla (up 23 places to 47th) and Lungi Ngidi (up seven places to 49th) make huge gains among bowlers while for Sri Lanka, captain Dimuth Karunaratne (up two places to 15th) and Kusal Perera (up four places to 56th) have moved up in the list of batsmen.

Kane Williamson sets new Test rankings high for a New Zealand player

Manchester United will face Liverpool in the blockbuster tie of the FA Cup fourth round, while League Two Cheltenham host Manchester City.

Liverpool and United will clash for two consecutive weekends with the top two also facing off in the Premier League on Sunday.

National League North side Chorley's reward for their victory over a depleted Derby was a home tie with Premier League Wolves.

Chorley manager Jamie Vermiglio told BBC Sport: "That's what we really wanted, Premier League opposition, great.

"And there's a bit of history because in 1986, Chorley played against Wolves at home and beat them 3-0, so we just need to do that again."

Should Chorley pull off another upset, they could face holders Arsenal in the fifth round.

League Two Crawley, who thrashed Leeds 3-0 in the third round, travel to Bournemouth.

The fourth round ties will be played across the weekend of January 22 to 25 with the fifth round taking place between February 9 to 11.

<h2>FA Cup fourth round draw:</h2>

Manchester United v Liverpool

Cheltenham v Manchester City

Bournemouth v Crawley

Swansea v Nottingham Forest

Southampton or Shrewsbury v Arsenal

Barnsley v Norwich

Chorley v Wolves

Millwall v Bristol City

Brighton v Blackpool

Wycombe v Tottenham

Fulham v Burnley

Sheffield United v Plymouth

Chelsea v Luton

Stockport or West Ham v Doncaster

Brentford v Leicester

Everton v Sheffield Wednesday

<h2>Fifth round draw:</h2>

Manchester United or Liverpool v Stockport/West Ham/Doncaster

Fulham or Burnley v Bournemouth or Crawley

Sheffied United or Plymouth v Millwall or Bristol City

Chorley or Wolves v Southampton/Shrewsbury/Arsenal

Barnsley or Norwich v Chelsea or Luton

Everton or Sheffield Wednesday v Wycombe or Tottenham

Swansea or Nottingham Forest v Cheltenham or Manchester City

Brentford or Leicester v Brighton or Blackpool

Manchester United will face Liverpool in the blockbuster tie of the FA Cup fourth round, while League Two Cheltenham host Manchester City. Liverpool and United will clash for two consecutive weekends with the top two also facing off in the Premier League on Sunday.

Manchester United will face Liverpool in the blockbuster tie of the FA Cup fourth round, while League Two Cheltenham host Manchester City. Liverpool and United will clash for two consecutive weekends with the top two also facing off in the Premier League on Sunday. National League North side Chorley's reward for their victory over a depleted Derby was a home tie with Premier League Wolves. Chorley manager Jamie Vermiglio told BBC Sport: "That's what we really wanted, Premier League opposition, great. "And there's a bit of history because in 1986, Chorley played against Wolves at home and beat them 3-0, so we just need to do that again." Should Chorley pull off another upset, they could face holders Arsenal in the fifth round. League Two Crawley, who thrashed Leeds 3-0 in the third round, travel to Bournemouth. The fourth round ties will be played across the weekend of January 22 to 25 with the fifth round taking place between February 9 to 11. FA Cup fourth round draw: Manchester United v Liverpool Cheltenham v Manchester City Bournemouth v Crawley Swansea v Nottingham Forest Southampton or Shrewsbury v Arsenal Barnsley v Norwich Chorley v Wolves Millwall v Bristol City Brighton v Blackpool Wycombe v Tottenham Fulham v Burnley Sheffield United v Plymouth Chelsea v Luton Stockport or West Ham v Doncaster Brentford v Leicester Everton v Sheffield Wednesday Fifth round draw: Manchester United or Liverpool v Stockport/West Ham/Doncaster Fulham or Burnley v Bournemouth or Crawley Sheffied United or Plymouth v Millwall or Bristol City Chorley or Wolves v Southampton/Shrewsbury/Arsenal Barnsley or Norwich v Chelsea or Luton Everton or Sheffield Wednesday v Wycombe or Tottenham Swansea or Nottingham Forest v Cheltenham or Manchester City Brentford or Leicester v Brighton or Blackpool

Man Utd to face Liverpool in FA Cup 4th round

Two more NBA games were postponed by the league on Monday due to Covid-19 and contract tracing issues, bringing the total to four in the virus-shortened 2020-21 season.

The New Orleans Pelicans game at Dallas on Monday and the Boston Celtics game Tuesday at Chicago were both delayed over unspecified health and safety protocol issues.

The league also said it would meet with the National Basketball Players Association on Monday about possible modifications in the joint safety protocols.

There has been concern expressed by coaches about the health and safety of players being forced into playing unusually high numbers of minutes due to depleted rosters being forced to take the court.

The latest postponements will mark three consecutive days of lost games for the NBA after Miami's matchup on Sunday against the Celtics in Boston was called off because the Heat were unable to field a minimum eight players due to Covid-19 issues.

The Celtics had been reduced to the minimum eight players by virus issues with seven players missing due to the virus or contact tracing.

The Heat were still scheduled to play on Tuesday night in Philadelphia, where the 76ers had only a minimum eight available players, just seven of them healthy, for a home loss Saturday to Denver.

The South Florida Sun-Sentinel reported that the Heat's available players would travel from Boston to Philadelphia while players deemed at risk through contact tracing would be flown to Florida to quarantine.

The first NBA game to be postponed this season due to Covid-19 issues was on December 23 between Oklahoma City at Houston.

Dallas has three players listed as out due to the NBA Covid-19 protocols -- Jalen Brunson, Josh Richardson and Dorian Finney-Smith -- and Maxi Kleber listed as questionable for the same reason.

Scott Tomlin, the Mavericks' vice president of basketball communications, told the Dallas Morning News that the team would have had at least eight players available on Monday, but the league chose to postpone the contest "to ensure the health and safety of players, coaches and other personnel" as contact tracing continues.

NBA commissioner Adam Silver said before the season started on December 22 that the league, which completed the disrupted 2019-20 season in a quarantine bubble in Orlando, Florida, expected disruptions as it forged ahead in teams' home markets with coronavirus still surging.

"We do anticipate there will be bumps in the road along the way," Silver said in December, adding that's why the schedule for only the first half of the season had been released.

"We know it's possible we may have to reschedule games along the way," he said.

Philadelphia coach Doc Rivers said Saturday he trusted the procedures the league had put in place to limit spread of Covid-19, but he said losing so many players to contact tracing posed a danger to those remaining with increased minutes on the floor, wear and tear and the push to perhaps play through injury.

"That's long-term health with the accumulation of games," he said. "So I'm actually more concerned about that than I am actually about Covid."

Two more NBA games were postponed by the league on Monday due to Covid-19 and contract tracing issues, bringing the total to four in the virus-shortened 2020-21 season.

Two more NBA games were postponed by the league on Monday due to Covid-19 and contract tracing issues, bringing the total to four in the virus-shortened 2020-21 season. The New Orleans Pelicans game at Dallas on Monday and the Boston Celtics game Tuesday at Chicago were both delayed over unspecified health and safety protocol issues. The league also said it would meet with the National Basketball Players Association on Monday about possible modifications in the joint safety protocols. There has been concern expressed by coaches about the health and safety of players being forced into playing unusually high numbers of minutes due to depleted rosters being forced to take the court. The latest postponements will mark three consecutive days of lost games for the NBA after Miami's matchup on Sunday against the Celtics in Boston was called off because the Heat were unable to field a minimum eight players due to Covid-19 issues. The Celtics had been reduced to the minimum eight players by virus issues with seven players missing due to the virus or contact tracing. The Heat were still scheduled to play on Tuesday night in Philadelphia, where the 76ers had only a minimum eight available players, just seven of them healthy, for a home loss Saturday to Denver. The South Florida Sun-Sentinel reported that the Heat's available players would travel from Boston to Philadelphia while players deemed at risk through contact tracing would be flown to Florida to quarantine. The first NBA game to be postponed this season due to Covid-19 issues was on December 23 between Oklahoma City at Houston. Dallas has three players listed as out due to the NBA Covid-19 protocols -- Jalen Brunson, Josh Richardson and Dorian Finney-Smith -- and Maxi Kleber listed as questionable for the same reason. Scott Tomlin, the Mavericks' vice president of basketball communications, told the Dallas Morning News that the team would have had at least eight players available on Monday, but the league chose to postpone the contest "to ensure the health and safety of players, coaches and other personnel" as contact tracing continues. NBA commissioner Adam Silver said before the season started on December 22 that the league, which completed the disrupted 2019-20 season in a quarantine bubble in Orlando, Florida, expected disruptions as it forged ahead in teams' home markets with coronavirus still surging. "We do anticipate there will be bumps in the road along the way," Silver said in December, adding that's why the schedule for only the first half of the season had been released. "We know it's possible we may have to reschedule games along the way," he said. Philadelphia coach Doc Rivers said Saturday he trusted the procedures the league had put in place to limit spread of Covid-19, but he said losing so many players to contact tracing posed a danger to those remaining with increased minutes on the floor, wear and tear and the push to perhaps play through injury. "That's long-term health with the accumulation of games," he said. "So I'm actually more concerned about that than I am actually about Covid."

NBA postpones games at Dallas and Chicago due to Covid-19

Tokyo Olympics organisers played down a poll showing plunging support for the Games on Tuesday and said a report claiming cancellation could be discussed next month was "fake news".&nbsp;

The comments, less than 200 days before the postponed Games start in July, come with greater Tokyo under a state of emergency over a spike in coronavirus cases and with countries around the world battling outbreaks.

In a New Year's address to staff, Tokyo 2020 CEO Toshiro Muto put a positive spin on a Kyodo news poll published Sunday showing 45 percent want the 2020 Games delayed again, with 35 percent favouring outright cancellation.

"The number of people calling for it to be cancelled has only risen by about five percent," Muto said.

"The number of people calling for it to be postponed has risen a lot, but that means those people still want it to be held," he added.

"Of course, for it to be held, we have to guarantee that we hold a safe Games with anti-virus measures. If you think of it in those terms, I firmly believe people will get more and more behind it."

British rowing great Matthew Pinsent has called for the Games to be cancelled and Tokyo to host the event in 2024 instead, replacing Paris.

Muto also dismissed as "fake news" a Japanese media report claiming the International Olympic Committee and Tokyo 2020 organisers would debate the fate of the Games in February.

"When these types of reports surface, some people might feel anxious about them," said Muto.

"I want to say that we are not thinking that way at all, and that these reports are wrong."

Tokyo Olympics organisers played down a poll showing plunging support for the Games on Tuesday and said a report claiming cancellation could be discussed next month was "fake news".

Tokyo Olympics organisers played down a poll showing plunging support for the Games on Tuesday and said a report claiming cancellation could be discussed next month was "fake news". The comments, less than 200 days before the postponed Games start in July, come with greater Tokyo under a state of emergency over a spike in coronavirus cases and with countries around the world battling outbreaks. In a New Year's address to staff, Tokyo 2020 CEO Toshiro Muto put a positive spin on a Kyodo news poll published Sunday showing 45 percent want the 2020 Games delayed again, with 35 percent favouring outright cancellation. "The number of people calling for it to be cancelled has only risen by about five percent," Muto said. "The number of people calling for it to be postponed has risen a lot, but that means those people still want it to be held," he added. "Of course, for it to be held, we have to guarantee that we hold a safe Games with anti-virus measures. If you think of it in those terms, I firmly believe people will get more and more behind it." British rowing great Matthew Pinsent has called for the Games to be cancelled and Tokyo to host the event in 2024 instead, replacing Paris. Muto also dismissed as "fake news" a Japanese media report claiming the International Olympic Committee and Tokyo 2020 organisers would debate the fate of the Games in February. "When these types of reports surface, some people might feel anxious about them," said Muto. "I want to say that we are not thinking that way at all, and that these reports are wrong."

Tokyo Olympics organisers say cancellation report 'fake news'

Tennis' top stars face the threat of sanctions if they breach stringent Covid-19 protocols when they arrive this week for an Australian Open deemed by its top boss as needing a "small miracle" to go off without a hitch.

The calendar's first Grand Slam normally starts in the third week of January but planning for this year's tournament has been a logistical nightmare for beleaguered organisers.&nbsp;

Tennis Australia initially wanted players arriving in Melbourne by mid-December.

But restrictions on international arrivals to the state of Victoria pushed back the tournament start date to February 8, with a series of WTA and ATP events being played at Melbourne the week before to ensure players are up to speed.

Melbourne was the epicentre of Australia's largest second wave outbreak of coronavirus, which prompted strict lockdown measures for four months.&nbsp;

This grim backdrop fuelled tense negotiations between government officials, organisers and players to iron out an agreeable health security protocol for the Australian Open.

The sticking point had been over allowing players to practise during the compulsory 14-day quarantine period but eventually authorities gave the green light and granted daily five-hour blocks for training and treatment.

Players, however, face stricter measures compared to last year's US and French Opens held in cities stricken by the virus and will be required to spend 19 hours daily during quarantine confined to their hotel rooms.

Defending Australian Open champion Sofia Kenin admitted it was "not the most ideal situation". "It is what it is. The rules are quite harsh, but it's for&nbsp;everyone," she said.

There is also the threat of sanctions, including hefty fines, spending additional time in quarantine or deportation, if the rules are broken.

Ukrainian world number five Elina Svitolina hired a mental coach in an effort to cope with the stress and uncertainty.

"I think during the difficult time right now, mentally it's very important to stay strong, to stay fresh," she said.

<h2>- 'Just crazy' -</h2>

Six-time Australian Open champion Roger Federer's decision to withdraw -- breaking his record streak of 21 straight singles appearances in Melbourne -- affects the pulling power of the tournament, which was left reeling after suggestions he skipped because of the quarantine rules.

The 39-year-old had two rounds of knee surgery last year and has not played since his semi-final defeat to Novak Djokovic at the Australian Open 12 months ago.

"The problem is that Mirka (Federer's wife) and their children couldn't leave the room," Tennis Australia's head of player liaisons Andre Sa told Brazilian media.&nbsp;

"They would have to stay 14 days in the room. The exception is only for players."

Just days ahead of players arriving organisers were forced into a scramble to find more accommodation after a luxury Melbourne hotel due to host them pulled out.

In a late twist, it was revealed Saturday that a contingent of up to 50 -– including top stars Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, Serena Williams and Naomi Osaka -– would quarantine instead in Adelaide with an exhibition tournament held there prior to the Australian Open.

It led to world number 72 Jeremy Chardy accusing organisers of preferential treatment.

Australian Open chief Craig Tiley&nbsp;admitted there would be "some benefits" for players amid the smaller cohort in Adelaide but said "the conditions of training will be the same".

Tiley said the toll on organisers had been immense with a 1,270-strong contingent on 80 charter flights, bankrolled by Tennis Australia, journeying to Melbourne and Adelaide this week.

"It's just crazy, we've never seen anything like it," he told the Tennis Channel.

"Logistically, to pull something like this off will be a small miracle but we are giving it a good go."

Even though Melbourne recently experienced a small new outbreak of the virus, Tiley expected crowd capacity at the Grand Slam to be around 50-75 percent, exceeding the biggest audience for a tennis tournament since the pandemic started.

"We are doing the best we can to deliver an Australian Open to as close as it was in 2020," he said. "Hopefully there will be normalcy to it."&nbsp;

Tennis' top stars face the threat of sanctions if they breach stringent Covid-19 protocols when they arrive this week for an Australian Open deemed by its top boss as needing a "small miracle" to go off without a hitch.

Tennis' top stars face the threat of sanctions if they breach stringent Covid-19 protocols when they arrive this week for an Australian Open deemed by its top boss as needing a "small miracle" to go off without a hitch. The calendar's first Grand Slam normally starts in the third week of January but planning for this year's tournament has been a logistical nightmare for beleaguered organisers. Tennis Australia initially wanted players arriving in Melbourne by mid-December. But restrictions on international arrivals to the state of Victoria pushed back the tournament start date to February 8, with a series of WTA and ATP events being played at Melbourne the week before to ensure players are up to speed. Melbourne was the epicentre of Australia's largest second wave outbreak of coronavirus, which prompted strict lockdown measures for four months. This grim backdrop fuelled tense negotiations between government officials, organisers and players to iron out an agreeable health security protocol for the Australian Open. The sticking point had been over allowing players to practise during the compulsory 14-day quarantine period but eventually authorities gave the green light and granted daily five-hour blocks for training and treatment. Players, however, face stricter measures compared to last year's US and French Opens held in cities stricken by the virus and will be required to spend 19 hours daily during quarantine confined to their hotel rooms. Defending Australian Open champion Sofia Kenin admitted it was "not the most ideal situation". "It is what it is. The rules are quite harsh, but it's for everyone," she said. There is also the threat of sanctions, including hefty fines, spending additional time in quarantine or deportation, if the rules are broken. Ukrainian world number five Elina Svitolina hired a mental coach in an effort to cope with the stress and uncertainty. "I think during the difficult time right now, mentally it's very important to stay strong, to stay fresh," she said. - 'Just crazy' - Six-time Australian Open champion Roger Federer's decision to withdraw -- breaking his record streak of 21 straight singles appearances in Melbourne -- affects the pulling power of the tournament, which was left reeling after suggestions he skipped because of the quarantine rules. The 39-year-old had two rounds of knee surgery last year and has not played since his semi-final defeat to Novak Djokovic at the Australian Open 12 months ago. "The problem is that Mirka (Federer's wife) and their children couldn't leave the room," Tennis Australia's head of player liaisons Andre Sa told Brazilian media. "They would have to stay 14 days in the room. The exception is only for players." Just days ahead of players arriving organisers were forced into a scramble to find more accommodation after a luxury Melbourne hotel due to host them pulled out. In a late twist, it was revealed Saturday that a contingent of up to 50 -– including top stars Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, Serena Williams and Naomi Osaka -– would quarantine instead in Adelaide with an exhibition tournament held there prior to the Australian Open. It led to world number 72 Jeremy Chardy accusing organisers of preferential treatment. Australian Open chief Craig Tiley admitted there would be "some benefits" for players amid the smaller cohort in Adelaide but said "the conditions of training will be the same". Tiley said the toll on organisers had been immense with a 1,270-strong contingent on 80 charter flights, bankrolled by Tennis Australia, journeying to Melbourne and Adelaide this week. "It's just crazy, we've never seen anything like it," he told the Tennis Channel. "Logistically, to pull something like this off will be a small miracle but we are giving it a good go." Even though Melbourne recently experienced a small new outbreak of the virus, Tiley expected crowd capacity at the Grand Slam to be around 50-75 percent, exceeding the biggest audience for a tennis tournament since the pandemic started. "We are doing the best we can to deliver an Australian Open to as close as it was in 2020," he said. "Hopefully there will be normalcy to it."

Strict quarantine awaits world's top tennis stars in Australia

Formula One's Australian and Chinese Grands Prix joined the list of events cancelled or postponed on Tuesday as the coronavirus pandemic hit the world of sport once more.

AFP Sport looks at the events impacted by Covid-19 months before the already re-scheduled Olympic Games and European football championships are due to take place:

<h2>Formula One</h2>

-- The season-opening Melbourne Grand Prix was delayed from March to November on Tuesday but no new date was given for Shanghai. The record, 23-race campaign will now begin in Bahrain on March 28, a week later than the originally scheduled start.

<h2>Rugby Union</h2>

-- On Monday, the European Champions and Challenge Cups were put on hold after the French government said the Covid-19 variant in Britain made it too risky for Top 14 sides to face clubs from the United Kingdom. There are now concerns about the Six Nations tournament, which is scheduled to start on February 6.

<h2>Premier League</h2>

-- Five matches in English football's top division have been postponed in the last two months due to coronavirus outbreaks among squads.

The Premier League said on Monday 36 players and staff tested positive for coronavirus over the past week, a slight fall from the record number of 40 cases in the previous seven days.

Last week, Newcastle coach Steve Bruce -- who has experienced with an coronavirus outbreak in his squad -- became the first Premier League boss to question the morality of football continuing if players and staff are being put at risk.

<h2>Tennis</h2>

-- Preparations for the Australian Open in Melbourne have been badly disrupted by the coronavirus outbreak, with the tournament's start date pushed back three weeks to February 8.

Players face the threat of sanctions including hefty fines, spending additional time in quarantine or deportation, if they breach stringent Covid-19 protocols when they arrive this week for the year's first Grand Slam.

<h2>NBA/NFL/NHL</h2>

-- The 2020-21 season is only three weeks old but the NBA has already experienced dozens of cases among squads and coaching staffs and matches have been postponed. The last season was completed by gathering together all the teams still in contention in a 'bubble' in Florida. This season teams are playing in their own arenas.

-- The NFL season has reached the playoffs after a regular season punctuated by the closure of training facilities at some franchises and a raft of positive tests for Covid-19.&nbsp;

-- The NHL season has been reduced from 82 games per franchise to 56 and is scheduled to run until May 8 in home arenas with playoffs to follow into July, bringing hope of returning to a normal October start for the 2021-22 season. All seven Canadian outfits are in their own division with new eight-team breakdowns in three US-only divisions.

<h2>Worries surround the Olympics</h2>

-- On Tuesday, Tokyo 2020 CEO Toshiro Muto dismissed a Japanese media report claiming the International Olympic Committee and Tokyo 2020 organisers would debate the fate of the Games in February as "fake news". The Games, already pushed back a year, are due to start on&nbsp;July 23.

<h2>Skiing</h2>

-- The prestigious World Cup event at Wengen in Switzerland, scheduled for this weekend, was called off due to increasing Covid-19 cases in the local area.

Formula One's Australian and Chinese Grands Prix joined the list of events cancelled or postponed on Tuesday as the coronavirus pandemic hit the world of sport once more.

Formula One's Australian and Chinese Grands Prix joined the list of events cancelled or postponed on Tuesday as the coronavirus pandemic hit the world of sport once more. AFP Sport looks at the events impacted by Covid-19 months before the already re-scheduled Olympic Games and European football championships are due to take place: Formula One -- The season-opening Melbourne Grand Prix was delayed from March to November on Tuesday but no new date was given for Shanghai. The record, 23-race campaign will now begin in Bahrain on March 28, a week later than the originally scheduled start. Rugby Union -- On Monday, the European Champions and Challenge Cups were put on hold after the French government said the Covid-19 variant in Britain made it too risky for Top 14 sides to face clubs from the United Kingdom. There are now concerns about the Six Nations tournament, which is scheduled to start on February 6. Premier League -- Five matches in English football's top division have been postponed in the last two months due to coronavirus outbreaks among squads. The Premier League said on Monday 36 players and staff tested positive for coronavirus over the past week, a slight fall from the record number of 40 cases in the previous seven days. Last week, Newcastle coach Steve Bruce -- who has experienced with an coronavirus outbreak in his squad -- became the first Premier League boss to question the morality of football continuing if players and staff are being put at risk. Tennis -- Preparations for the Australian Open in Melbourne have been badly disrupted by the coronavirus outbreak, with the tournament's start date pushed back three weeks to February 8. Players face the threat of sanctions including hefty fines, spending additional time in quarantine or deportation, if they breach stringent Covid-19 protocols when they arrive this week for the year's first Grand Slam. NBA/NFL/NHL -- The 2020-21 season is only three weeks old but the NBA has already experienced dozens of cases among squads and coaching staffs and matches have been postponed. The last season was completed by gathering together all the teams still in contention in a 'bubble' in Florida. This season teams are playing in their own arenas. -- The NFL season has reached the playoffs after a regular season punctuated by the closure of training facilities at some franchises and a raft of positive tests for Covid-19. -- The NHL season has been reduced from 82 games per franchise to 56 and is scheduled to run until May 8 in home arenas with playoffs to follow into July, bringing hope of returning to a normal October start for the 2021-22 season. All seven Canadian outfits are in their own division with new eight-team breakdowns in three US-only divisions. Worries surround the Olympics -- On Tuesday, Tokyo 2020 CEO Toshiro Muto dismissed a Japanese media report claiming the International Olympic Committee and Tokyo 2020 organisers would debate the fate of the Games in February as "fake news". The Games, already pushed back a year, are due to start on July 23. Skiing -- The prestigious World Cup event at Wengen in Switzerland, scheduled for this weekend, was called off due to increasing Covid-19 cases in the local area.

How Covid-19 has hit global sport again

Tottenham boss Jose Mourinho says Fulham have little reason to complain about being told to play a Premier League game at short notice as his opposite number Scott Parker called the scheduling "scandalous".

Spurs had been due to play Aston Villa on Wednesday, but a coronavirus outbreak at the Midlands club forced a postponement on Monday.

The Premier League acted quickly to put Spurs' match with the Cottagers into the vacant slot after the original fixture was postponed with three hours' notice on December 30 due to a Covid-19 outbreak in Parker's squad.

The Fulham boss criticised the decision, with their game against Chelsea scheduled for Friday also put back 24 hours.

But Mourinho, who had feared a crippling fixture pile-up for Tottenham, offered little sympathy given the short notice of the original game's postponement.

Asked whether Fulham had a right to be upset, Mourinho said on Tuesday: "Are you serious? They had 48 hours to prepare for this game. You think so? I had the news I was not going to play them two hours before the game started."

"The biggest impact is to have matches postponed," he added. "That is the biggest impact.&nbsp;

"The changing of the order of the matches, the impact is minimal because in the end you have to play 19 matches at home and away, you have to play two matches against every team.

"So if it's to help the Premier League to go and to end properly, I think it is a solution we all have to accept as a positive solution."

Parker, who played under Mourinho when the Portuguese was in charge at Chelsea, was furious with the decision.

"I am normally the last one to moan or whine," he said. "To confirm a Premier League game at 09:30 on Monday morning is scandalous."

Parker, whose side are third from bottom of the table, said league chiefs had no idea what it took to prepare for a particular opponent.

"It's not about the fixture," he said. "I accept we have to play but it's the notice. The people making these decisions don't understand."

Tottenham boss Jose Mourinho says Fulham have little reason to complain about being told to play a Premier League game at short notice as his opposite number Scott Parker called the scheduling "scandalous".

Tottenham boss Jose Mourinho says Fulham have little reason to complain about being told to play a Premier League game at short notice as his opposite number Scott Parker called the scheduling "scandalous". Spurs had been due to play Aston Villa on Wednesday, but a coronavirus outbreak at the Midlands club forced a postponement on Monday. The Premier League acted quickly to put Spurs' match with the Cottagers into the vacant slot after the original fixture was postponed with three hours' notice on December 30 due to a Covid-19 outbreak in Parker's squad. The Fulham boss criticised the decision, with their game against Chelsea scheduled for Friday also put back 24 hours. But Mourinho, who had feared a crippling fixture pile-up for Tottenham, offered little sympathy given the short notice of the original game's postponement. Asked whether Fulham had a right to be upset, Mourinho said on Tuesday: "Are you serious? They had 48 hours to prepare for this game. You think so? I had the news I was not going to play them two hours before the game started." "The biggest impact is to have matches postponed," he added. "That is the biggest impact. "The changing of the order of the matches, the impact is minimal because in the end you have to play 19 matches at home and away, you have to play two matches against every team. "So if it's to help the Premier League to go and to end properly, I think it is a solution we all have to accept as a positive solution." Parker, who played under Mourinho when the Portuguese was in charge at Chelsea, was furious with the decision. "I am normally the last one to moan or whine," he said. "To confirm a Premier League game at 09:30 on Monday morning is scandalous." Parker, whose side are third from bottom of the table, said league chiefs had no idea what it took to prepare for a particular opponent. "It's not about the fixture," he said. "I accept we have to play but it's the notice. The people making these decisions don't understand."

Mourinho has no sympathy for Fulham over fixture switch

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola on Tuesday heaped praise on Bernardo Silva as he said the Portuguese winger/attacking midfielder can play in any position, even holding midfielder, while lauding his intelligence and game-awareness.&nbsp;

Bernardo, after a tough 2019-20 season, has shown glimpses of his previous self, where fans and pundits lauded him as one of the finest midfielders in the world. More than glimpses, it has been Bernardo’s consistency and&nbsp;versatility that has allowed Man City to perfectly execute their game-plan in many matches of the ongoing 2020-21 season.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ahead of Man City’s <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> match against Brighton and Hove Albion on Wednesday, Guardiola said Bernardo understands each position perfectly.&nbsp;

“Bernardo Silva&nbsp;is so intelligent.&nbsp;He can play everywhere, even holding midfielder. He understands the game perfectly. He understands each position he has to play,” Guardiola said in the pre-match press conference.&nbsp;

Bernardo returned with a brace in Man City’s FA Cup match against Birmingham including a thumping left-footed volley which left Guardiola mighty impressed. The Portuguese has been working hard and has already played in various positions including right wing, left wing, forward and in different parts of midfield.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I am incredibly delighted with the two goals because he is fighting to score,” Guardiola added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/man-utd-to-face-liverpool-in-fa-cup-4th-round-356201" hreflang="en">Man Utd to face Liverpool in FA Cup 4th round</a>

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🗣 𝑷𝑬𝑷 𝑻𝑨𝑳𝑲 🗣 
 
A word from the boss... 
 
💬 <a href="https://twitter.com/marathonbet?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@marathonbet</a> 
🔷 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ManCity?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ManCity</a> | <a href="https://t.co/axa0klUGiM">https://t.co/axa0klUGiM</a> <a href="https://t.co/JjzN2X8ifK">pic.twitter.com/JjzN2X8ifK</a>
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Analysing&nbsp;Man City’s next opponent, Brighton, Guardiola said that the club is a delight to watch and a joy to&nbsp;analyse. He revealed that he has already warned the Man City players to be at a high standard if they want to beat Brighton.&nbsp;

“Brighton&nbsp;are a joy to watch. A joy to&nbsp;analyse.&nbsp;I said to the players today, we have to be at a high standard to beat them. Forget the results we had in the past - they are better in all departments. They create more than they conceded,” Guardiola said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tottenham-to-play-fulham-instead-of-villa-after-virus-issues-356100" hreflang="en">Tottenham to play Fulham instead of Villa after virus issues</a>

Man&nbsp;City will take on Brighton and Hove Albion on Wednesday with the&nbsp;Cityzens&nbsp;looking to climb the Premier League points table with their matches in hand.&nbsp;

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola on Tuesday heaped praise on Bernardo Silva as he said the Portuguese winger/attacking midfielder can play in any position, even holding midfielder, while lauding his intelligence and game-awareness.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola on Tuesday heaped praise on Bernardo Silva as he said the Portuguese winger/attacking midfielder can play in any position, even holding midfielder, while lauding his intelligence and game-awareness. Bernardo, after a tough 2019-20 season, has shown glimpses of his previous self, where fans and pundits lauded him as one of the finest midfielders in the world. More than glimpses, it has been Bernardo’s consistency and versatility that has allowed Man City to perfectly execute their game-plan in many matches of the ongoing 2020-21 season. Ahead of Man City’s Premier League match against Brighton and Hove Albion on Wednesday, Guardiola said Bernardo understands each position perfectly. “Bernardo Silva is so intelligent. He can play everywhere, even holding midfielder. He understands the game perfectly. He understands each position he has to play,” Guardiola said in the pre-match press conference. Bernardo returned with a brace in Man City’s FA Cup match against Birmingham including a thumping left-footed volley which left Guardiola mighty impressed. The Portuguese has been working hard and has already played in various positions including right wing, left wing, forward and in different parts of midfield. “I am incredibly delighted with the two goals because he is fighting to score,” Guardiola added. ALSO READ: Man Utd to face Liverpool in FA Cup 4th round 🗣 𝑷𝑬𝑷 𝑻𝑨𝑳𝑲 🗣 A word from the boss... 💬 @marathonbet 🔷 #ManCity | https://t.co/axa0klUGiM pic.twitter.com/JjzN2X8ifK — Manchester City (@ManCity) January 12, 2021 × Analysing Man City’s next opponent, Brighton, Guardiola said that the club is a delight to watch and a joy to analyse. He revealed that he has already warned the Man City players to be at a high standard if they want to beat Brighton. “Brighton are a joy to watch. A joy to analyse. I said to the players today, we have to be at a high standard to beat them. Forget the results we had in the past - they are better in all departments. They create more than they conceded,” Guardiola said. ALSO READ: Tottenham to play Fulham instead of Villa after virus issues Man City will take on Brighton and Hove Albion on Wednesday with the Cityzens looking to climb the Premier League points table with their matches in hand.

'He understands the game perfectly': Bernardo Silva delights Pep Guardiola

Indian shuttlers Saina Nehwal, HS Prannoy and Parupalli Kashyap on Tuesday withdrew from Thailand Open after Nehwal and Prannoy tested positive for COVID-19. Whereas Kashyap is under quarantine due to close proximity with a player, Badminton Association of India (BAI) has said.

Ace Indian shuttlers Saina Nehwal and HS Prannoy were forced to give walkovers from the much-awaited Thailand Open in Bangkok after the duo tested positive for the dreaded coronavirus. &nbsp;

Saina, after testing positive for COVID-19, gave a walkover ahead of her match on Tuesday in what was supposed to be her first match since the outbreak of coronavirus before pulling out of the tournament along with Prannoy and Kashyap. Saina had played her last match in the All England Open in March 2020. &nbsp;

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NEWS UPDATE: 
Badminton Association of India is in constant touch with @bwf, players, team management and organizers. <a href="https://twitter.com/himantabiswa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@himantabiswa</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AJAYKUM78068675?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AJAYKUM78068675</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/badminton?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#badminton</a> <a href="https://t.co/CBilGCpmO4">pic.twitter.com/CBilGCpmO4</a>
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Saina took to social media platform Twitter to raise concerns surrounding the rules as she said she didn’t receive her test report yesterday while adding she was asked to head to the hospital just before the warm-up. The Olympic medallist further said that, according to rules, that report should have come within five hours of the test.&nbsp;

“I still didn’t receive the covid test report from yesterday it’s very confusing and today just before the warm up for the match they tell me to got to hospital in bangkok ... saying that I m positive ..according to rules the report should come in 5 hours.. @bwfmedia,” Saina tweeted on Tuesday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-postpones-games-at-dallas-and-chicago-due-to-covid-19-356198" hreflang="en">NBA postpones games at Dallas and Chicago due to Covid-19</a>

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I still didn’t receive the covid test report from yesterday it’s very confusing and today just before the warm up for the match they tell me to got to hospital in bangkok ... saying that I m positive ..according to rules the report should come in 5 hours.. <a href="https://twitter.com/bwfmedia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@bwfmedia</a> <a href="https://t.co/ETkWiNVHnP">https://t.co/ETkWiNVHnP</a>
— Saina Nehwal (@NSaina) <a href="https://twitter.com/NSaina/status/1348887027018731521?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Both Saina and Prannoy have been put in isolation in a hospital for at least 10 days. Notably, this is the second time Saina has tested positive for coronavirus having recovered from it only a few weeks ago.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-organisers-say-cancellation-report-fake-news-356195" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics organisers say cancellation report 'fake news'</a>

Recently, Saina had raised concerns about the fitness of the athletes after trainers and physios were restricted from meeting the players during the Thailand tour. Indian shuttlers are currently in Bangkok for Thailand Open 2021 as preparations for the rescheduled Tokyo Olympics after a gap of almost one year.&nbsp;

Besides Saina and Prannoy, the Indian contingent in Bangkok for the Thailand Open includes the likes of PV Sindhu, Kidambi Srikkanth and Sai Praneeth alongside men’s doubles pair of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty and doubles players Ashwini Ponappa and N Sikki Reddy. Parupalli Kashyap, Sameer Verma, Dhruv Kapila and Manu Attari are also in the team.&nbsp;

UPDATE: Both Saina Nehwal and HS Prannoy have been cleared to play in the Thailand Open after the latest test results. Read the full story here:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/saina-nehwal-hs-prannoy-cleared-to-play-in-thailand-open-356296" hreflang="en">Saina Nehwal, HS Prannoy cleared to play in Thailand Open</a>

Indian shuttlers Saina Nehwal, HS Prannoy and Parupalli Kashyap on Tuesday withdrew from Thailand Open after Nehwal and Prannoy tested positive for COVID-19. Whereas Kashyap is under quarantine due to close proximity with a player, Badminton Association of India (BAI) has said.

Indian shuttlers Saina Nehwal, HS Prannoy and Parupalli Kashyap on Tuesday withdrew from Thailand Open after Nehwal and Prannoy tested positive for COVID-19. Whereas Kashyap is under quarantine due to close proximity with a player, Badminton Association of India (BAI) has said. Ace Indian shuttlers Saina Nehwal and HS Prannoy were forced to give walkovers from the much-awaited Thailand Open in Bangkok after the duo tested positive for the dreaded coronavirus. Saina, after testing positive for COVID-19, gave a walkover ahead of her match on Tuesday in what was supposed to be her first match since the outbreak of coronavirus before pulling out of the tournament along with Prannoy and Kashyap. Saina had played her last match in the All England Open in March 2020. NEWS UPDATE: Badminton Association of India is in constant touch with @bwf, players, team management and organizers. @himantabiswa @AJAYKUM78068675 #badminton pic.twitter.com/CBilGCpmO4 — BAI Media (@BAI_Media) January 12, 2021 × Saina took to social media platform Twitter to raise concerns surrounding the rules as she said she didn’t receive her test report yesterday while adding she was asked to head to the hospital just before the warm-up. The Olympic medallist further said that, according to rules, that report should have come within five hours of the test. “I still didn’t receive the covid test report from yesterday it’s very confusing and today just before the warm up for the match they tell me to got to hospital in bangkok ... saying that I m positive ..according to rules the report should come in 5 hours.. @bwfmedia,” Saina tweeted on Tuesday. ALSO READ: NBA postpones games at Dallas and Chicago due to Covid-19 I still didn’t receive the covid test report from yesterday it’s very confusing and today just before the warm up for the match they tell me to got to hospital in bangkok ... saying that I m positive ..according to rules the report should come in 5 hours.. @bwfmedia https://t.co/ETkWiNVHnP — Saina Nehwal (@NSaina) January 12, 2021 × Both Saina and Prannoy have been put in isolation in a hospital for at least 10 days. Notably, this is the second time Saina has tested positive for coronavirus having recovered from it only a few weeks ago. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics organisers say cancellation report 'fake news' Recently, Saina had raised concerns about the fitness of the athletes after trainers and physios were restricted from meeting the players during the Thailand tour. Indian shuttlers are currently in Bangkok for Thailand Open 2021 as preparations for the rescheduled Tokyo Olympics after a gap of almost one year. Besides Saina and Prannoy, the Indian contingent in Bangkok for the Thailand Open includes the likes of PV Sindhu, Kidambi Srikkanth and Sai Praneeth alongside men’s doubles pair of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty and doubles players Ashwini Ponappa and N Sikki Reddy. Parupalli Kashyap, Sameer Verma, Dhruv Kapila and Manu Attari are also in the team. UPDATE: Both Saina Nehwal and HS Prannoy have been cleared to play in the Thailand Open after the latest test results. Read the full story here: Saina Nehwal, HS Prannoy cleared to play in Thailand Open

Saina Nehwal, HS Prannoy, Parupalli Kashyap withdraw for Thailand Open after testing positive for COVID-19

Badminton World Federation (BWF) and Badminton Association of Thailand (BAT) on Tuesday confirmed that three of the four players who tested positive for COVID-19 have been cleared to participate in the Thailand Open. The list includes Indian shuttlers Saina Nehwal and HS Prannoy along with Germany’s Ralfy Jansen.&nbsp;

Nehwal and Prannoy were taken to the hospital to adhere to the safety protocols. Kashyap Parupalli was also asked to self-quarantine. &nbsp;

The four players took an antibody blood test to further confirmation. While Nehwal, Prannoy and Hansen tested positive on the PCR test, their antibody IgG was positive. &nbsp;

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🚨 BREAKING 🚨<a href="https://twitter.com/NSaina?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NSaina</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PRANNOYHSPRI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PRANNOYHSPRI</a> and Jones Ralfy Jansen have been cleared to resume their place in the YONEX Thailand Open. They tested positive on the PCR test but their antibody IgG was positive. Read more 👇<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HSBCbadminton?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HSBCbadminton</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BWFWorldTour?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BWFWorldTour</a><a href="https://t.co/Rc8rt3uWLR">https://t.co/Rc8rt3uWLR</a>
— BWF (@bwfmedia) <a href="https://twitter.com/bwfmedia/status/1348988571273682953?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/thailand-open-indias-kidambi-srikanth-left-with-bloodied-nose-after-swab-collection-expresses-frustration-356248" hreflang="en">Thailand Open: India's Kidambi Srikanth left with bloodied nose after swab collection, expresses frustration</a>

A positive antibody test means a person has been infected with the COVID-19 virus at some point in the past. It does not mean they are currently infected. The trio all contracted COVID-19 in late 2020. The committee was satisfied that they are not infected and do not pose a danger to the tournament.&nbsp;

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Shuttlers <a href="https://twitter.com/NSaina?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NSaina</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/PRANNOYHSPRI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PRANNOYHSPRI</a> have tested negative in the final test and have been given green flag to participate in the tournament. Timely intervention of BAI ensured with all support from BWF and other stakeholders have made this possible. 
 
Detailed statement below👇 <a href="https://t.co/tMzB3BmvRm">pic.twitter.com/tMzB3BmvRm</a>
— BAI Media (@BAI_Media) <a href="https://twitter.com/BAI_Media/status/1348993249273237507?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Whereas Egypt’s Elgamal was withdrawn from Thailand Open after his antibody IgG was negative. Elgamal had not contracted the virus before.&nbsp;

Elgamal, a mixed doubles player, will now be taken to hospital for further observation and tests and will remain in isolation for a minimum 10 days at the hospital.&nbsp;

Nehwal and Parupalli’s singles matches – declared a walkover earlier today – will be rescheduled for tomorrow. Badminton Association of India, after talks with top BWF officials, ensured that no walkovers will be handed if the tests returned negative.

Furthermore, the Badminton Association of India has put in efforts after Kidambi Srikanth started bleeding after swab collection. Doctors were sent immediately to address the issue.&nbsp;

Badminton World Federation (BWF) and Badminton Association of Thailand (BAT) on Tuesday confirmed that three of the four players who tested positive for COVID-19 have been cleared to participate in the Thailand Open.

Badminton World Federation (BWF) and Badminton Association of Thailand (BAT) on Tuesday confirmed that three of the four players who tested positive for COVID-19 have been cleared to participate in the Thailand Open. The list includes Indian shuttlers Saina Nehwal and HS Prannoy along with Germany’s Ralfy Jansen. Nehwal and Prannoy were taken to the hospital to adhere to the safety protocols. Kashyap Parupalli was also asked to self-quarantine. The four players took an antibody blood test to further confirmation. While Nehwal, Prannoy and Hansen tested positive on the PCR test, their antibody IgG was positive. 🚨 BREAKING 🚨@NSaina @PRANNOYHSPRI and Jones Ralfy Jansen have been cleared to resume their place in the YONEX Thailand Open. They tested positive on the PCR test but their antibody IgG was positive. Read more 👇#HSBCbadminton #BWFWorldTourhttps://t.co/Rc8rt3uWLR — BWF (@bwfmedia) January 12, 2021 × ALSO READ: Thailand Open: India's Kidambi Srikanth left with bloodied nose after swab collection, expresses frustration A positive antibody test means a person has been infected with the COVID-19 virus at some point in the past. It does not mean they are currently infected. The trio all contracted COVID-19 in late 2020. The committee was satisfied that they are not infected and do not pose a danger to the tournament. Shuttlers @NSaina and @PRANNOYHSPRI have tested negative in the final test and have been given green flag to participate in the tournament. Timely intervention of BAI ensured with all support from BWF and other stakeholders have made this possible. Detailed statement below👇 pic.twitter.com/tMzB3BmvRm — BAI Media (@BAI_Media) January 12, 2021 × Whereas Egypt’s Elgamal was withdrawn from Thailand Open after his antibody IgG was negative. Elgamal had not contracted the virus before. Elgamal, a mixed doubles player, will now be taken to hospital for further observation and tests and will remain in isolation for a minimum 10 days at the hospital. Nehwal and Parupalli’s singles matches – declared a walkover earlier today – will be rescheduled for tomorrow. Badminton Association of India, after talks with top BWF officials, ensured that no walkovers will be handed if the tests returned negative. Furthermore, the Badminton Association of India has put in efforts after Kidambi Srikanth started bleeding after swab collection. Doctors were sent immediately to address the issue.

Saina Nehwal, HS Prannoy cleared to play in Thailand Open

Formula One’s Australian Grand Prix has been postponed to November while China’s race has been put on hold indefinitely as COVID-19 forced the 2021 calendar shuffle on Tuesday. While the Australian GP, usually the season-opener, was delayed from March to November, no new date has been given for the Chinese GP, which is normally held in April.&nbsp;

The latest development means a second consecutive season of F1 has been disrupted by the dreaded virus, which was delayed and cut short into 17 races last year.&nbsp;

Formula One 2021 will now commence in Bahrain on March 28, a week later than the originally scheduled start in&nbsp;Melbourne.&nbsp;

"The&nbsp;global pandemic has not yet allowed life to return to normal, but we showed in 2020 that we can race safely as the first international sport to return," F1 president Stefano&nbsp;Domenicali&nbsp;said in a statement.&nbsp;

Many of the F1 teams are based in England where COVID-19 cases are surging due to a more infectious new variant, further complicating the matter.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-hamilton-to-ronaldo-athletes-who-tested-positive-for-covid-19-in-2020-352776" hreflang="en">From Hamilton to Ronaldo: Athletes who tested positive for COVID-19 in 2020</a>

Domenicali&nbsp;said that talks were still underway about the Chinese Grand Prix. However, an F1 statement stated that the Shanghai race would be conducted&nbsp;"later in the season if possible", citing travel restrictions.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Obviously, the virus situation remains fluid, but we have the experience from last season with all our partners and promoters to adapt accordingly and safely in 2021,"&nbsp;Domenicali&nbsp;said.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Formula One&nbsp;organisers&nbsp;said that they expect crowds to return for the 2021 F1 season after the previous season was held behind closed doors in 2020.&nbsp;

Italy’s Imola race is now back on the calendar as it takes the Chinese slot on April 18 with the location of a race scheduled for May 2 is yet to be announced.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/thailand-open-indias-kidambi-srikanth-left-with-bloodied-nose-after-swab-collection-expresses-frustration-356248" hreflang="en">Thailand Open: India's Kidambi Srikanth left with bloodied nose after swab collection, expresses frustration</a>

The Australian Grand Prix will be held on November 21, soon after the races in the United States, Mexico and Brazil and will be followed by Saudi Arabia and season showdown in Abu Dhabi.&nbsp;

The Australian GP was called off in 2020, hours before the first practice session of the year as one McLaren team member tested positive for coronavirus. The pandemic resulted in&nbsp;organisers&nbsp;reducing the 2020 season to just 17 events from the usual 22 races.&nbsp;

"As the third-last race of the season, this provides the opportunity to safely host what could be the championship-decider in Melbourne in the lead-in to summer," said Australian Grand Prix chairman Paul Little.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"We'd like to thank our loyal motorsport fans and employees for their understanding in these challenging times."&nbsp;

Australia have been successful in&nbsp;suppressing&nbsp;the virus and has held major sporting events including India’s ongoing cricket tour and next month’s Australian Open. However, the travel restrictions remain a major hurdle for the athletes.&nbsp;

Formula One’s Australian Grand Prix has been postponed to November while China’s race has been put on hold indefinitely as COVID-19 forced the 2021 calendar shuffle on Tuesday.

Formula One’s Australian Grand Prix has been postponed to November while China’s race has been put on hold indefinitely as COVID-19 forced the 2021 calendar shuffle on Tuesday. While the Australian GP, usually the season-opener, was delayed from March to November, no new date has been given for the Chinese GP, which is normally held in April. The latest development means a second consecutive season of F1 has been disrupted by the dreaded virus, which was delayed and cut short into 17 races last year. Formula One 2021 will now commence in Bahrain on March 28, a week later than the originally scheduled start in Melbourne. "The global pandemic has not yet allowed life to return to normal, but we showed in 2020 that we can race safely as the first international sport to return," F1 president Stefano Domenicali said in a statement. Many of the F1 teams are based in England where COVID-19 cases are surging due to a more infectious new variant, further complicating the matter. ALSO READ: From Hamilton to Ronaldo: Athletes who tested positive for COVID-19 in 2020 Domenicali said that talks were still underway about the Chinese Grand Prix. However, an F1 statement stated that the Shanghai race would be conducted "later in the season if possible", citing travel restrictions. "Obviously, the virus situation remains fluid, but we have the experience from last season with all our partners and promoters to adapt accordingly and safely in 2021," Domenicali said. Formula One organisers said that they expect crowds to return for the 2021 F1 season after the previous season was held behind closed doors in 2020. Italy’s Imola race is now back on the calendar as it takes the Chinese slot on April 18 with the location of a race scheduled for May 2 is yet to be announced. ALSO READ: Thailand Open: India's Kidambi Srikanth left with bloodied nose after swab collection, expresses frustration The Australian Grand Prix will be held on November 21, soon after the races in the United States, Mexico and Brazil and will be followed by Saudi Arabia and season showdown in Abu Dhabi. The Australian GP was called off in 2020, hours before the first practice session of the year as one McLaren team member tested positive for coronavirus. The pandemic resulted in organisers reducing the 2020 season to just 17 events from the usual 22 races. "As the third-last race of the season, this provides the opportunity to safely host what could be the championship-decider in Melbourne in the lead-in to summer," said Australian Grand Prix chairman Paul Little. "We'd like to thank our loyal motorsport fans and employees for their understanding in these challenging times." Australia have been successful in suppressing the virus and has held major sporting events including India’s ongoing cricket tour and next month’s Australian Open. However, the travel restrictions remain a major hurdle for the athletes.

Formula One: Australian GP shifted to November, Chinese GP put on hold indefinitely

COVID-19 tests have become a norm for athletes participating in various tournaments around the world. From football, cricket, tennis and other major sport, players and staff have been regularly tested, even twice in some cases, to avoid the spread of the dreaded virus in between a tournament or series. While there have been cases where athletes have expressed their frustration over swab collection, Indian badminton star Kidambi Srikanth took to social media platform Twitter to show some photographs where his nose was left bleeding after the test.&nbsp;

Srikanth, who is in Bangkok for the ongoing Thailand Open, posted three photographs on Twitter on Tuesday as he expressed his anger over the swab collection. The photographs showed his bloodied nose and blood-soaked tissues. &nbsp;

Srikanth in his post wrote that players take care of themselves for matches and don’t participate to shed blood like this referring to the bloodied nose. He added that since landing in Thailand, he gave four tests for coronavirus and none of them was pleasant.&nbsp;

“We take care of ourselves for the match not to come and shed blood for THIS . However , I gave 4 tests after I have arrived and I can’t say any of them have been pleasant . Unacceptable,” Srikanth wrote. &nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/thailand-open-pv-sindhu-sai-praneeth-knocked-out-in-1st-round-356232" hreflang="en">Thailand Open: PV Sindhu, Sai Praneeth knocked out in 1st round</a>

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We take care of ourselves for the match not to come and shed blood for THIS . However , I gave 4 tests after I have arrived and I can’t say any of them have been pleasant . 
Unacceptable <a href="https://t.co/ir56ji8Yjw">pic.twitter.com/ir56ji8Yjw</a>
— Kidambi Srikanth (@srikidambi) <a href="https://twitter.com/srikidambi/status/1348920319554121728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2021</a></blockquote>
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A bit of blood during swab test is common but Srikanth’s nose was bleeding heavily, which irked the Indian shuttler. &nbsp;

As fans expressed their anger after seeing Kidambi’s bloodied nose, Parupalli Kashyap also reacted by posting an angry emoji. &nbsp;

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😠😠😠
— Parupalli Kashyap (@parupallik) <a href="https://twitter.com/parupallik/status/1348928250223857665?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Srikanth has been drawn with Sourabh Verma in the first round of Thailand Open with the match scheduled to be played on Wednesday. &nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/saina-nehwal-hs-prannoy-parupalli-kashyap-withdraw-for-thailand-open-after-testing-positive-for-covid-19-356209" hreflang="en">Saina Nehwal, HS Prannoy, Parupalli Kashyap withdraw for Thailand Open after testing positive for COVID-19</a>

<h2>Here's how fans reacted:&nbsp;</h2>

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Never seen this happen to other sports person all of them get tested but not like this <a href="https://twitter.com/bwfmedia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@bwfmedia</a>
— Sharah (@bsksara) <a href="https://twitter.com/bsksara/status/1348921508920324099?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2021</a></blockquote>
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this is so unacceptable... please take care
— Jaaee28 (@jaimuk28) <a href="https://twitter.com/jaimuk28/status/1348921290225172480?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2021</a></blockquote>
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How can athletes and their fans feel secure if they aren't taken care of properly? <a href="https://twitter.com/bwfmedia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@bwfmedia</a> please improve. We don't want to see such sights ever again 😑 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YonexThailandOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YonexThailandOpen</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ThailandOpen2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ThailandOpen2021</a>
— s a n g i t a. 💙 (@sangitahermione) <a href="https://twitter.com/sangitahermione/status/1348929090313601025?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2021</a></blockquote>
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This is terrible. This can't happen.
— N Jagannath Das_TT (@dassport_TT) <a href="https://twitter.com/dassport_TT/status/1348921265252286465?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2021</a></blockquote>
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You are very precious for us. Please do not risk your lives for the game. Please come back home and stay safe. It might be very tough on you, but please dump these tourneys for some more time. We love you and pray for you <a href="https://twitter.com/NSaina?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NSaina</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/parupallik?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@parupallik</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Pvsindhu1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Pvsindhu1</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/sikkireddy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sikkireddy</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/P9Ashwini?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@P9Ashwini</a>
— King of Hearts 💕 💞 (@rajrebba1) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajrebba1/status/1348933141134643200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

&nbsp;While for the rest of the Indian squad, the Thailand Open will be the first event in almost 10 months, Srikanth had participated in the Denmark Super 750 in October. &nbsp;

Talking to Olympic channel he said, "I would like to be physically fit and do well in all the tournaments that I play. The New Year resolution that I managed to hold onto was to get physically better. I think I managed to work on my physical fitness and get better."&nbsp;

Srikanth’s maiden BWF Grand Prix title came at the Thailand Open in 2013.&nbsp;

Earlier on Tuesday, the likes of Saina Nehwal, HS Prannoy and Parupalli Kashyap pulled out of the Thailand Open. While Saina and Prannoy tested positive for COVID-19, Kashyap came in close proximity with a positive player.&nbsp;

COVID-19 tests have become a norm for athletes participating in various tournaments around the world. From football, cricket, tennis and other major sport, players and staff have been regularly tested, even twice in some cases, to avoid the spread of the dreaded virus in between a tournament or series.

COVID-19 tests have become a norm for athletes participating in various tournaments around the world. From football, cricket, tennis and other major sport, players and staff have been regularly tested, even twice in some cases, to avoid the spread of the dreaded virus in between a tournament or series. While there have been cases where athletes have expressed their frustration over swab collection, Indian badminton star Kidambi Srikanth took to social media platform Twitter to show some photographs where his nose was left bleeding after the test. Srikanth, who is in Bangkok for the ongoing Thailand Open, posted three photographs on Twitter on Tuesday as he expressed his anger over the swab collection. The photographs showed his bloodied nose and blood-soaked tissues. Srikanth in his post wrote that players take care of themselves for matches and don’t participate to shed blood like this referring to the bloodied nose. He added that since landing in Thailand, he gave four tests for coronavirus and none of them was pleasant. “We take care of ourselves for the match not to come and shed blood for THIS . However , I gave 4 tests after I have arrived and I can’t say any of them have been pleasant . Unacceptable,” Srikanth wrote. ALSO READ: Thailand Open: PV Sindhu, Sai Praneeth knocked out in 1st round We take care of ourselves for the match not to come and shed blood for THIS . However , I gave 4 tests after I have arrived and I can’t say any of them have been pleasant . Unacceptable pic.twitter.com/ir56ji8Yjw — Kidambi Srikanth (@srikidambi) January 12, 2021 × A bit of blood during swab test is common but Srikanth’s nose was bleeding heavily, which irked the Indian shuttler. As fans expressed their anger after seeing Kidambi’s bloodied nose, Parupalli Kashyap also reacted by posting an angry emoji. 😠😠😠 — Parupalli Kashyap (@parupallik) January 12, 2021 × Srikanth has been drawn with Sourabh Verma in the first round of Thailand Open with the match scheduled to be played on Wednesday. ALSO READ: Saina Nehwal, HS Prannoy, Parupalli Kashyap withdraw for Thailand Open after testing positive for COVID-19 Here's how fans reacted: Never seen this happen to other sports person all of them get tested but not like this @bwfmedia — Sharah (@bsksara) January 12, 2021 × this is so unacceptable... please take care — Jaaee28 (@jaimuk28) January 12, 2021 × How can athletes and their fans feel secure if they aren't taken care of properly? @bwfmedia please improve. We don't want to see such sights ever again 😑 #YonexThailandOpen #ThailandOpen2021 — s a n g i t a. 💙 (@sangitahermione) January 12, 2021 × This is terrible. This can't happen. — N Jagannath Das_TT (@dassport_TT) January 12, 2021 × You are very precious for us. Please do not risk your lives for the game. Please come back home and stay safe. It might be very tough on you, but please dump these tourneys for some more time. We love you and pray for you @NSaina @parupallik @Pvsindhu1 @sikkireddy @P9Ashwini — King of Hearts 💕 💞 (@rajrebba1) January 12, 2021 × While for the rest of the Indian squad, the Thailand Open will be the first event in almost 10 months, Srikanth had participated in the Denmark Super 750 in October. Talking to Olympic channel he said, "I would like to be physically fit and do well in all the tournaments that I play. The New Year resolution that I managed to hold onto was to get physically better. I think I managed to work on my physical fitness and get better." Srikanth’s maiden BWF Grand Prix title came at the Thailand Open in 2013. Earlier on Tuesday, the likes of Saina Nehwal, HS Prannoy and Parupalli Kashyap pulled out of the Thailand Open. While Saina and Prannoy tested positive for COVID-19, Kashyap came in close proximity with a positive player.

Thailand Open: India's Kidambi Srikanth left with bloodied nose after swab collection, expresses frustration

India’s PV Sindhu has been knocked out of the Thailand Open 2021 after losing her opening match against Denmark’s Mia Blichfeldt 21-16, 24-26, 13-21 on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Sindhu failed to convert two match points as she loses to Mia Blichfeldt in the opening round of the Thailand Open in what was a disastrous start for the Olympic gold-medalist.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Furthermore, B Sai Praneeth was also knocked out from&nbsp;Thailand&nbsp;Open after going down to&nbsp;Kantaphon&nbsp;Wangcharoen&nbsp;16-21, 10-21.&nbsp;&nbsp;

However, Ashwini&nbsp;Ponappa-Satwiksairaj&nbsp;Rankireddy&nbsp;advanced to the second round of mixed doubles after a stunning win over Indonesian duo of Hafiz Faizal and Gloria Emanuelle Widjaja. The Indian pair won the match 21-11, 27-29, 21-16.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-hamilton-to-ronaldo-athletes-who-tested-positive-for-covid-19-in-2020-352776" hreflang="en">From Hamilton to Ronaldo: Athletes who tested positive for COVID-19 in 2020</a>

Sindhu started the match well and won the first match with intensity while making Blichfeldt run hard. The Dane did sweat it out throughout the game but failed to get the momentum going. With Sindhu comfortably leading the second game, Blichfeldt stretched the game to 15-15, which made the Indian shuttler frustrated.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Nervousness crept it and was visible in Sindhu’s game as she tried hard to get her smashes but kept on hitting the nets. She also looked a bit fatigued.&nbsp;

Blichfeldt tightened up the screw in the third and final match as Sindhu kept on losing her legs. She missed some routine smashes and overhit a few&nbsp;as Blichfeldt closed on for a massive win against the world number seven.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/saina-nehwal-hs-prannoy-parupalli-kashyap-withdraw-for-thailand-open-after-testing-positive-for-covid-19-356209" hreflang="en">Saina Nehwal, HS Prannoy, Parupalli Kashyap withdraw for Thailand Open after testing positive for COVID-19</a>

Meanwhile, India’s Saina&nbsp;Nehwal, HS Prannoy and&nbsp;Parupalli&nbsp;Kashyap withdrew from the Thailand Open on&nbsp;Tuesday&nbsp;after testing positive for COVID-19 ahead of their opening match of Thailand Open. Both&nbsp;Nehwal&nbsp;and Kashyap were forced to give walkovers and have been admitted in a hospital for regulatory quarantine for 10 days.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India’s PV Sindhu has been knocked out of the Thailand Open 2021 after losing her opening match against Denmark’s Mia Blichfeldt 21-16, 24-26, 13-21 on Tuesday. Sindhu failed to convert two match points as she loses to Mia Blichfeldt in the opening round of the Thailand Open in what was a disastrous start for the Olympic gold-medalist.

India’s PV Sindhu has been knocked out of the Thailand Open 2021 after losing her opening match against Denmark’s Mia Blichfeldt 21-16, 24-26, 13-21 on Tuesday. Sindhu failed to convert two match points as she loses to Mia Blichfeldt in the opening round of the Thailand Open in what was a disastrous start for the Olympic gold-medalist. Furthermore, B Sai Praneeth was also knocked out from Thailand Open after going down to Kantaphon Wangcharoen 16-21, 10-21. However, Ashwini Ponappa-Satwiksairaj Rankireddy advanced to the second round of mixed doubles after a stunning win over Indonesian duo of Hafiz Faizal and Gloria Emanuelle Widjaja. The Indian pair won the match 21-11, 27-29, 21-16. ALSO READ: From Hamilton to Ronaldo: Athletes who tested positive for COVID-19 in 2020 Sindhu started the match well and won the first match with intensity while making Blichfeldt run hard. The Dane did sweat it out throughout the game but failed to get the momentum going. With Sindhu comfortably leading the second game, Blichfeldt stretched the game to 15-15, which made the Indian shuttler frustrated. Nervousness crept it and was visible in Sindhu’s game as she tried hard to get her smashes but kept on hitting the nets. She also looked a bit fatigued. Blichfeldt tightened up the screw in the third and final match as Sindhu kept on losing her legs. She missed some routine smashes and overhit a few as Blichfeldt closed on for a massive win against the world number seven. ALSO READ: Saina Nehwal, HS Prannoy, Parupalli Kashyap withdraw for Thailand Open after testing positive for COVID-19 Meanwhile, India’s Saina Nehwal, HS Prannoy and Parupalli Kashyap withdrew from the Thailand Open on Tuesday after testing positive for COVID-19 ahead of their opening match of Thailand Open. Both Nehwal and Kashyap were forced to give walkovers and have been admitted in a hospital for regulatory quarantine for 10 days.

Thailand Open: PV Sindhu, Sai Praneeth knocked out in 1st round

In what comes as a huge blow to the injury-plagued Indian cricket team, ace speedster&nbsp;Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah&nbsp;is doubtful for the fourth Test against Australia, scheduled to start from January 15, due to an&nbsp;abdominal&nbsp;strain.&nbsp;

Even Mayank Agarwal, tipped to be Hanuma Vihari’s replacement in the playing XI for the Brisbane Test,&nbsp;was hit on the hands and there are chances that it could result in a hairline fracture. If confirmed, then Mayank will be ruled out of the Brisbane Test.&nbsp;

Ravichandran Ashwin, who battled back spasm, has aggravated the strain after battling for three hours on Day 5 to save the Sydney Test.&nbsp;

Bumrah&nbsp;sustained the abdominal strain during the third Test in Sydney but continued to bowl to keep India in the game. Reportedly,&nbsp;Bumrah’s&nbsp;scan reports have shown a strain and Indian team management doesn’t want him to aggravate the injury with home series against England&nbsp;lined up.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-3rd-test-bruised-and-broken-but-sydney-was-conquered-356068" hreflang="en">Bruised and broken but Sydney was 'conquered'</a>

The Indian team is relieved to know that&nbsp;Bumrah&nbsp;hasn’t suffered a tear but are in fear that the Indian pacer&nbsp;might break down in the middle of Brisbane Test if he is given the nod to play.&nbsp;

If&nbsp;Bumrah&nbsp;doesn’t start, then two-Test old Mohammed Siraj will lead the Indian bowling attack which is likely to feature Navdeep Saini, Shardul Thakur and T Natarajan in Brisbane Test.&nbsp;

With injured KL Rahul out and Hanuma Vihari suffering a grade 2 hamstring tear, there are no middle-order batsmen left in the reserves.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-captain-tim-paine-apologises-for-sledging-against-ashwin-in-sydney-test-356168" hreflang="en">Australian captain Tim Paine apologises for sledging against Ashwin in Sydney Test</a>

The two available batsmen are Prithvi Shaw and Mayank Agarwal. If Agarwal’s scans reveal that it is a bruise and not a fracture then&nbsp;it could well be Prithvi Shaw batting at number three followed by&nbsp;Cheteshwar&nbsp;Pujara,&nbsp;Ajhinkya&nbsp;Rahane and Agarwal himself at number six.&nbsp;

With series locked at 1-1, India and&nbsp;Australia&nbsp;will take the field at the Gabba in Brisbane for the decider on January 15.&nbsp;

In what comes as a huge blow to the injury-plagued Indian cricket team, ace speedster Jasprit Bumrah is doubtful for the fourth Test against Australia, scheduled to start from January 15, due to an abdominal strain.

In what comes as a huge blow to the injury-plagued Indian cricket team, ace speedster Jasprit Bumrah is doubtful for the fourth Test against Australia, scheduled to start from January 15, due to an abdominal strain. Even Mayank Agarwal, tipped to be Hanuma Vihari’s replacement in the playing XI for the Brisbane Test, was hit on the hands and there are chances that it could result in a hairline fracture. If confirmed, then Mayank will be ruled out of the Brisbane Test. Ravichandran Ashwin, who battled back spasm, has aggravated the strain after battling for three hours on Day 5 to save the Sydney Test. Bumrah sustained the abdominal strain during the third Test in Sydney but continued to bowl to keep India in the game. Reportedly, Bumrah’s scan reports have shown a strain and Indian team management doesn’t want him to aggravate the injury with home series against England lined up. ALSO READ: Bruised and broken but Sydney was 'conquered' The Indian team is relieved to know that Bumrah hasn’t suffered a tear but are in fear that the Indian pacer might break down in the middle of Brisbane Test if he is given the nod to play. If Bumrah doesn’t start, then two-Test old Mohammed Siraj will lead the Indian bowling attack which is likely to feature Navdeep Saini, Shardul Thakur and T Natarajan in Brisbane Test. With injured KL Rahul out and Hanuma Vihari suffering a grade 2 hamstring tear, there are no middle-order batsmen left in the reserves. ALSO READ: Australian captain Tim Paine apologises for sledging against Ashwin in Sydney Test The two available batsmen are Prithvi Shaw and Mayank Agarwal. If Agarwal’s scans reveal that it is a bruise and not a fracture then it could well be Prithvi Shaw batting at number three followed by Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajhinkya Rahane and Agarwal himself at number six. With series locked at 1-1, India and Australia will take the field at the Gabba in Brisbane for the decider on January 15.

Jasprit Bumrah doubtful for Brisbane Test as injury worries grow for Team India

Officials at Fort Bliss, a US Army post in New Mexico and Texas, have moved to court-martial a private first class accused of the sexual assault of a fellow soldier who was found dead on New Year's Eve.

Pfc. Asia Graham was found unresponsive in her barracks on December 31, Fort Bliss said in a press release issued January 2.

Fort Bliss, which is located in El Paso, Texas, has not released the accused soldier's name.

Special agents for the US Army Criminal Investigation Command do not suspect foul play in her death, the release added.

According to a statement released by Lt. Col. Allie Payne, 1st Armored Division and Fort Bliss Public Affairs Officer, Graham initially reported an alleged sexual assault by a fellow soldier at Fort Bliss on June 1.

Graham said the assault occurred in December 2019, according to the statement.&nbsp;

Pfc. Graham was a Human Resource Specialist who joined the US. Army in July 2019 from Cherryville, North Carolina. Fort Bliss was her first duty station, the release said.

Following her report last June, the base command began an investigation and put in place a military protective order, as well as making sure that Graham and the accused soldier were not living in the same building or working in the same areas.

Officials at Fort Bliss, a US Army post in New Mexico and Texas, have moved to court-martial a private first class accused of the sexual assault of a fellow soldier who was found dead on New Year's Eve.

Officials at Fort Bliss, a US Army post in New Mexico and Texas, have moved to court-martial a private first class accused of the sexual assault of a fellow soldier who was found dead on New Year's Eve. Pfc. Asia Graham was found unresponsive in her barracks on December 31, Fort Bliss said in a press release issued January 2. Fort Bliss, which is located in El Paso, Texas, has not released the accused soldier's name. Special agents for the US Army Criminal Investigation Command do not suspect foul play in her death, the release added. According to a statement released by Lt. Col. Allie Payne, 1st Armored Division and Fort Bliss Public Affairs Officer, Graham initially reported an alleged sexual assault by a fellow soldier at Fort Bliss on June 1. Graham said the assault occurred in December 2019, according to the statement. Pfc. Graham was a Human Resource Specialist who joined the US. Army in July 2019 from Cherryville, North Carolina. Fort Bliss was her first duty station, the release said. Following her report last June, the base command began an investigation and put in place a military protective order, as well as making sure that Graham and the accused soldier were not living in the same building or working in the same areas.

Against all odds, injury-plagued Team India seal memorable draw in Sydney

Leeds suffered a humiliating FA Cup exit against Crawley as the League Two side swept to a stunning 3-0 win, while eighth-tier Marine's hopes of causing the competition's greatest shock were crushed in a 5-0 defeat against Tottenham.

After the spiking coronavirus pandemic wreaked havoc with matches across the third round on Friday and Saturday, the FA Cup was back on more familiar ground on Sunday as Leeds became the competition's latest big name to be knocked out by a feisty underdog.

While Marine's romantic adventure was cut short by Carlos Vinicius's hat-trick and Chelsea and Manchester City progressed to the fourth round with ease, Crawley's unexpected success encapsulated the FA Cup's unique charm at a time when football is badly in need of some positive news.

Numerous clubs have been hit by Covid-19 problems as the new variant sweeps across Britain, forcing Aston Villa and Derby to field teams of youth players for third round defeats against Liverpool and non-league Chorley respectively.

Despite calls for the English season to be halted, the FA Cup goes on for now and Crawley relished their chance to steal the spotlight.

Leeds sit 12th in the Premier League after a fine first season back in the top-flight, but boss Marcelo Bielsa paid the price for making seven changes at The People's Pension Stadium.

On a fairytale day for Crawley, it was fitting that Nick Tsaroulla should open the scoring with his first career goal in the 51st minute.

Ashley Nadesan's low shot crept under Kiko Casilla to double Crawley's lead two minutes later and Jordan Tunnicliffe wrapped up the victory after 70 minutes.

"These players have got a lot to prove to the clubs who have released them and we've showed what we can do against a really good side," Crawley boss John Yems said.

Rubbing salt into Leeds' wounds, Crawley handed a debut to former reality television star Mark Wright as a late substitute.

How much Bielsa knew about Wright is in doubt, but he insisted he wasn't surprised by Crawley's display.

"It's not a question of surprise. We knew the characteristics of their players. We had the ball for a long period of time but we couldn't do much with it," Bielsa said.

<h2>- Vibrant Vinicius -</h2>

Marine, of the Northern Premier League Division One North West, were trying to bridge the biggest gap -- 161 places -- between opponents in FA Cup history.

Marine's squad is comprised of teachers, NHS staff, bin men and factory workers, with their tiny stadium in the Merseyside town of Crosby providing a surreal setting for the visit of Jose Mourinho's stars.

Appropriately for a match against a team named after a local pub, virus restrictions meant Tottenham had to change in a stadium function room with a bar.

Marine's ground is lined on one side by houses, so a few lucky locals were able to watch for free as Neil Kengni almost gave Marine the lead when his 30-yard drive cannoned off the bar.

Tottenham, without Harry Kane and Son Heung-min, took control thanks to two close range finishes by Vinicius in six minutes.

Lucas Moura struck with a fine free-kick in the 32nd minute and Vinicius completed his treble five minutes later

Alfie Devine enjoyed a debut to remember when the substitute fired home in the 60th minute, making him Tottenham's youngest ever scorer at 16 years and 163 days.

"The boys were professionals and didn't stop until the game was over. The attitude means a lot for me and also for the competition and to Marine's guys, because they felt we played seriously," Mourinho said.

Chelsea, FA Cup runners-up last season, thrashed League Two team Morecambe 4-0.

Mason Mount marked his 22nd birthday with a 25-yard strike and, after 12 games without a goal, Timo Werner finally got on the scoresheet in the 44th minute.

Callum Hudson-Odoi and Kai Havertz netted in the second half.

Manchester City cruised to a 3-0 win against second tier Birmingham at the Etihad Stadium, with two goals from &nbsp;Bernardo Silva and one from Phil Foden.

Brighton needed penalties to see off League Two Newport County after both sides scored in injury time in a 1-1 draw.

Solly March's opener for the Premier League side was cancelled out by Adam Webster's own goal, but after no further goals in extra-time, Webster made amends with the winning spot-kick.

Leeds suffered a humiliating FA Cup exit against Crawley as the League Two side swept to a stunning 3-0 win, while eighth-tier Marine's hopes of causing the competition's greatest shock were crushed in a 5-0 defeat against Tottenham.

Leeds suffered a humiliating FA Cup exit against Crawley as the League Two side swept to a stunning 3-0 win, while eighth-tier Marine's hopes of causing the competition's greatest shock were crushed in a 5-0 defeat against Tottenham. After the spiking coronavirus pandemic wreaked havoc with matches across the third round on Friday and Saturday, the FA Cup was back on more familiar ground on Sunday as Leeds became the competition's latest big name to be knocked out by a feisty underdog. While Marine's romantic adventure was cut short by Carlos Vinicius's hat-trick and Chelsea and Manchester City progressed to the fourth round with ease, Crawley's unexpected success encapsulated the FA Cup's unique charm at a time when football is badly in need of some positive news. Numerous clubs have been hit by Covid-19 problems as the new variant sweeps across Britain, forcing Aston Villa and Derby to field teams of youth players for third round defeats against Liverpool and non-league Chorley respectively. Despite calls for the English season to be halted, the FA Cup goes on for now and Crawley relished their chance to steal the spotlight. Leeds sit 12th in the Premier League after a fine first season back in the top-flight, but boss Marcelo Bielsa paid the price for making seven changes at The People's Pension Stadium. On a fairytale day for Crawley, it was fitting that Nick Tsaroulla should open the scoring with his first career goal in the 51st minute. Ashley Nadesan's low shot crept under Kiko Casilla to double Crawley's lead two minutes later and Jordan Tunnicliffe wrapped up the victory after 70 minutes. "These players have got a lot to prove to the clubs who have released them and we've showed what we can do against a really good side," Crawley boss John Yems said. Rubbing salt into Leeds' wounds, Crawley handed a debut to former reality television star Mark Wright as a late substitute. How much Bielsa knew about Wright is in doubt, but he insisted he wasn't surprised by Crawley's display. "It's not a question of surprise. We knew the characteristics of their players. We had the ball for a long period of time but we couldn't do much with it," Bielsa said. - Vibrant Vinicius - Marine, of the Northern Premier League Division One North West, were trying to bridge the biggest gap -- 161 places -- between opponents in FA Cup history. Marine's squad is comprised of teachers, NHS staff, bin men and factory workers, with their tiny stadium in the Merseyside town of Crosby providing a surreal setting for the visit of Jose Mourinho's stars. Appropriately for a match against a team named after a local pub, virus restrictions meant Tottenham had to change in a stadium function room with a bar. Marine's ground is lined on one side by houses, so a few lucky locals were able to watch for free as Neil Kengni almost gave Marine the lead when his 30-yard drive cannoned off the bar. Tottenham, without Harry Kane and Son Heung-min, took control thanks to two close range finishes by Vinicius in six minutes. Lucas Moura struck with a fine free-kick in the 32nd minute and Vinicius completed his treble five minutes later Alfie Devine enjoyed a debut to remember when the substitute fired home in the 60th minute, making him Tottenham's youngest ever scorer at 16 years and 163 days. "The boys were professionals and didn't stop until the game was over. The attitude means a lot for me and also for the competition and to Marine's guys, because they felt we played seriously," Mourinho said. Chelsea, FA Cup runners-up last season, thrashed League Two team Morecambe 4-0. Mason Mount marked his 22nd birthday with a 25-yard strike and, after 12 games without a goal, Timo Werner finally got on the scoresheet in the 44th minute. Callum Hudson-Odoi and Kai Havertz netted in the second half. Manchester City cruised to a 3-0 win against second tier Birmingham at the Etihad Stadium, with two goals from Bernardo Silva and one from Phil Foden. Brighton needed penalties to see off League Two Newport County after both sides scored in injury time in a 1-1 draw. Solly March's opener for the Premier League side was cancelled out by Adam Webster's own goal, but after no further goals in extra-time, Webster made amends with the winning spot-kick.

Leeds stunned by fourth-tier Crawley in FA Cup as Spurs crush Marine

Champions Juventus battled to a 3-1 victory over 10-man Sassuolo to close the gap on the top three in Serie A on Sunday.&nbsp;

Andrea Pirlo's side won their third straight league match for the first time this season to move fourth, seven points behind leaders AC Milan with a game in hand.

"It was important to give continuity and win tonight, because otherwise the match played on Wednesday at San Siro was useless," said Juventus coach Andrea Pirlo whose side ended Milan's 27-match unbeaten run midweek.

Sassuolo played the entire second half a man down after Pedro Obiang saw red for a dangerous challenge on Federico Chiesa.

Defender Danilo put Juventus ahead in the 50th minute when he fired home his first goal of the season.

But seven minutes later Sassuolo pulled level with Gregoire Defrel brilliantly finishing off a Hamed Junior Traore through ball.

Substitute Aaron Ramsey gave Juventus the advantage again eight minutes from time when he tapped in a Gianluca Frabotta cross to claim his first goal of the campaign.

Cristiano Ronaldo completed the scoring deep into injury time, rifling in his 15th league goal this term.

"It was a painful match, badly managed after our advantage, but the important thing was winning even if we were a little disorganised," added Pirlo.

It was a bruising clash for the reigning champions, who are chasing their 10th title in a row, as they lost forward Paulo Dybala and Weston McKennie to injury in the first half.

Midfielder McKennie pulled up after 18 minutes with a muscle problem and was replaced by Welsh international Ramsey.

Dybala was substituted three minutes before the break after receiving treatment for a knock to his left knee, with Swede Dejan Kulusevski coming on in his place.

Juve are already without Alex Sandro, Juan Cuadrado and Matthijs de Ligt who tested positive for coronavirus.

There was also a scare for forward Chiesa, who was left screaming in pain and clutching his left ankle following Obiang's tackle.

But Alvaro Morata returned from injury, coming on for the final minutes of the game for his first outing in 2021.

"McKennie had a slight muscular problem yesterday and he felt it again when he lifted his leg for a back-heel kick, but hopefully nothing serious," said Pirlo.&nbsp;

"Dybala has a collateral ligament problem that we will evaluate better in the next few days."

Sassuolo drop to seventh after their third loss in five games.

Juventus play second-placed Inter Milan in the San Siro next weekend in what could be one of the defining clashes of the season.

Champions Juventus battled to a 3-1 victory over 10-man Sassuolo to close the gap on the top three in Serie A on Sunday. Andrea Pirlo's side won their third straight league match for the first time this season to move fourth, seven points behind leaders AC Milan with a game in hand.

Champions Juventus battled to a 3-1 victory over 10-man Sassuolo to close the gap on the top three in Serie A on Sunday. Andrea Pirlo's side won their third straight league match for the first time this season to move fourth, seven points behind leaders AC Milan with a game in hand. "It was important to give continuity and win tonight, because otherwise the match played on Wednesday at San Siro was useless," said Juventus coach Andrea Pirlo whose side ended Milan's 27-match unbeaten run midweek. Sassuolo played the entire second half a man down after Pedro Obiang saw red for a dangerous challenge on Federico Chiesa. Defender Danilo put Juventus ahead in the 50th minute when he fired home his first goal of the season. But seven minutes later Sassuolo pulled level with Gregoire Defrel brilliantly finishing off a Hamed Junior Traore through ball. Substitute Aaron Ramsey gave Juventus the advantage again eight minutes from time when he tapped in a Gianluca Frabotta cross to claim his first goal of the campaign. Cristiano Ronaldo completed the scoring deep into injury time, rifling in his 15th league goal this term. "It was a painful match, badly managed after our advantage, but the important thing was winning even if we were a little disorganised," added Pirlo. It was a bruising clash for the reigning champions, who are chasing their 10th title in a row, as they lost forward Paulo Dybala and Weston McKennie to injury in the first half. Midfielder McKennie pulled up after 18 minutes with a muscle problem and was replaced by Welsh international Ramsey. Dybala was substituted three minutes before the break after receiving treatment for a knock to his left knee, with Swede Dejan Kulusevski coming on in his place. Juve are already without Alex Sandro, Juan Cuadrado and Matthijs de Ligt who tested positive for coronavirus. There was also a scare for forward Chiesa, who was left screaming in pain and clutching his left ankle following Obiang's tackle. But Alvaro Morata returned from injury, coming on for the final minutes of the game for his first outing in 2021. "McKennie had a slight muscular problem yesterday and he felt it again when he lifted his leg for a back-heel kick, but hopefully nothing serious," said Pirlo. "Dybala has a collateral ligament problem that we will evaluate better in the next few days." Sassuolo drop to seventh after their third loss in five games. Juventus play second-placed Inter Milan in the San Siro next weekend in what could be one of the defining clashes of the season.

'Painful' as Juve beat 10-man Sassuolo to move fourth in Serie A

The fourth and final Test will go ahead "as planned" in Brisbane this week, Cricket Australia chief Nick Hockley said Monday, after agreement from India who had been insisting they avoid quarantine in the city.

The location was thrown into doubt with India reportedly unhappy about having to undergo another round of isolation and a snap city-wide lockdown after a case of the infectious UK strain of Covid-19 was detected in Brisbane.

But with the stay-at-home orders lifted Monday, Hockley said it was all systems go.

"The fourth Test will be at the Gabba, as planned," he told commercial radio SEN, with play due to start on Friday.

"On the basis of yesterday's discussions we are full steam ahead to play the fourth Test at the Gabba and really looking forward to it."

Hockley said he had spoken to Queensland state health officials and India's cricketing governing body to receive the green light.

"I had a call last night from the BCCI secretary, very late last night, and he confirmed we are good to travel to Brisbane on Tuesday," Hockley said.

"We're extremely grateful for their support," he said of the India side.

Queensland health officials insisted Monday both teams would still be required to spend 14 days in quarantine.

Hockley said Cricket Australia had arranged a charter plane for the players, who will stay in a Brisbane hotel retained "exclusively" for their use.

Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk also confirmed the Test would go ahead, but with restrictions on crowd numbers.

"The Gabba will be filled to&nbsp;half the capacity and masks are&nbsp;mandatory for entering and for&nbsp;leaving and moving around the&nbsp;stadium," she said.

The tour has been hit by several virus-related problems, with spectator numbers severely limited in the current Sydney Test due to an outbreak in the city.

The second Test in Melbourne was named a possible Covid-19 spreading event, and five Indian players were caught apparently breaching the biosecurity bubble by eating at a restaurant in the city.

It has also been marred by allegations Indian players were subjected to racist abuse by some spectators in Sydney.

The series was level at 1-1 going into the final day of the third Test, after India bounced back from their opening loss to beat the hosts in the Boxing Day Test.

The fourth and final Test will go ahead "as planned" in Brisbane this week, Cricket Australia chief Nick Hockley said Monday, after agreement from India who had been insisting they avoid quarantine in the city.

The fourth and final Test will go ahead "as planned" in Brisbane this week, Cricket Australia chief Nick Hockley said Monday, after agreement from India who had been insisting they avoid quarantine in the city. The location was thrown into doubt with India reportedly unhappy about having to undergo another round of isolation and a snap city-wide lockdown after a case of the infectious UK strain of Covid-19 was detected in Brisbane. But with the stay-at-home orders lifted Monday, Hockley said it was all systems go. "The fourth Test will be at the Gabba, as planned," he told commercial radio SEN, with play due to start on Friday. "On the basis of yesterday's discussions we are full steam ahead to play the fourth Test at the Gabba and really looking forward to it." Hockley said he had spoken to Queensland state health officials and India's cricketing governing body to receive the green light. "I had a call last night from the BCCI secretary, very late last night, and he confirmed we are good to travel to Brisbane on Tuesday," Hockley said. "We're extremely grateful for their support," he said of the India side. Queensland health officials insisted Monday both teams would still be required to spend 14 days in quarantine. Hockley said Cricket Australia had arranged a charter plane for the players, who will stay in a Brisbane hotel retained "exclusively" for their use. Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk also confirmed the Test would go ahead, but with restrictions on crowd numbers. "The Gabba will be filled to half the capacity and masks are mandatory for entering and for leaving and moving around the stadium," she said. The tour has been hit by several virus-related problems, with spectator numbers severely limited in the current Sydney Test due to an outbreak in the city. The second Test in Melbourne was named a possible Covid-19 spreading event, and five Indian players were caught apparently breaching the biosecurity bubble by eating at a restaurant in the city. It has also been marred by allegations Indian players were subjected to racist abuse by some spectators in Sydney. The series was level at 1-1 going into the final day of the third Test, after India bounced back from their opening loss to beat the hosts in the Boxing Day Test.

Final Australia-India Test gets go ahead at Brisbane's Gabba

Tottenham Hotspur's match against coronavirus-ravaged Aston Villa has been postponed with Jose Mourinho's men instead set to face Fulham in a rearranged fixture on Wednesday.

Fulham's match against Spurs on December 30 was itself postponed because of a Covid-19 outbreak among Scott Parker's squad.

"Following&nbsp;Aston Villa's request to rearrange the fixture, and due to the number of players and staff who have either tested positive for COVID-19 or have been placed in isolation by the club, the Premier League had no other option than to reschedule the match," the Premier League said in a statement on Monday.

"As a result of this rescheduling, Spurs will now play their home match against&nbsp;Fulham&nbsp;in its place, on Wednesday 13 January at 20:15 GMT."

Mourinho had said it was "completely impossible" for any more of his side's matches to be postponed amid a fixture pile-up with Spurs still involved in four competitions.

However, the solution at least eases Tottenham's backlog with another clash with Fulham also needing to be rescheduled from the weekend they face Manchester City in the League Cup final on April 25.

Fulham's west London derby with Chelsea has been put back from Friday to Saturday, while Villa's next match at home to Everton has also been delayed from Saturday to Sunday, by which point some of their affected players will have fulfilled a 10-day isolation period.

Villa fielded a youth team without any first-team players or coaches for Friday's 4-1 FA Cup third round defeat to Liverpool.

Tottenham Hotspur's match against coronavirus-ravaged Aston Villa has been postponed with Jose Mourinho's men instead set to face Fulham in a rearranged fixture on Wednesday.

Tottenham Hotspur's match against coronavirus-ravaged Aston Villa has been postponed with Jose Mourinho's men instead set to face Fulham in a rearranged fixture on Wednesday. Fulham's match against Spurs on December 30 was itself postponed because of a Covid-19 outbreak among Scott Parker's squad. "Following Aston Villa's request to rearrange the fixture, and due to the number of players and staff who have either tested positive for COVID-19 or have been placed in isolation by the club, the Premier League had no other option than to reschedule the match," the Premier League said in a statement on Monday. "As a result of this rescheduling, Spurs will now play their home match against Fulham in its place, on Wednesday 13 January at 20:15 GMT." Mourinho had said it was "completely impossible" for any more of his side's matches to be postponed amid a fixture pile-up with Spurs still involved in four competitions. However, the solution at least eases Tottenham's backlog with another clash with Fulham also needing to be rescheduled from the weekend they face Manchester City in the League Cup final on April 25. Fulham's west London derby with Chelsea has been put back from Friday to Saturday, while Villa's next match at home to Everton has also been delayed from Saturday to Sunday, by which point some of their affected players will have fulfilled a 10-day isolation period. Villa fielded a youth team without any first-team players or coaches for Friday's 4-1 FA Cup third round defeat to Liverpool.

Tottenham to play Fulham instead of Villa after virus issues

Lionel Messi is bang in form in the new year, Schalke avoided matching the Bundesliga record for the most consecutive games without a win and there was a very rare defeat for Bayern Munich.

AFP Sport rounds up some of the main talking points from across the continent:

<h2>- Messi means business -</h2>

Lionel Messi looks like a man on a mission at the start of 2021 and what could be his final six months as a Barcelona player. On Saturday he scored twice -- including direct from a free-kick, one of his late-career specialities -- in a 4-0 win at Granada. That followed a masterful double and two shots off the post in a 3-2 midweek victory at Athletic Bilbao.&nbsp;

Before that he provided the assist for Frenkie de Jong's winner at Huesca, and Barcelona have won three out of three since the turn of the year, while Messi is now La Liga's top scorer. Maybe it's not too late for Ronald Koeman's side to challenge for the title: they are third, four points behind leaders Atletico Madrid, albeit having played three games more.

<h2>- New Hoppe for Schalke -</h2>

Matthew Hoppe is the latest young American to break through in the Bundesliga and he is already a hero for Schalke supporters. The California-born 19-year-old, who made his debut in November, had never scored a senior goal before netting a hat-trick -- the first ever for an American in the Bundesliga -- in the 4-0 defeat of Hoffenheim that rescued the Royal Blues from equalling an unwanted record.

Their first win since January 17 last year, after 30 games without, prevented them from matching Tasmania Berlin's infamous German top-flight record of 31 games without a victory set in 1965/66. Hoppe has given hope to a whole club, and suddenly Schalke have new cause for optimism as they bid to beat the drop. They are off the bottom, above Mainz, but they remain in the relegation zone.

<h2>- Title race alive as Bayern come unstuck -</h2>

Bayern Munich had begun to look a little less irresistible on a run of eight straight Bundesliga matches in which they had conceded the opening goal. But they had won five and drawn three of those matches. Then on Friday they were 2-0 up away to Borussia Moenchengladbach only to lose 3-2, just their second Bundesliga defeat since losing at the same ground in December 2019.

It is a result that keeps the Bundesliga title race very much alive, although Hansi Flick's team have a winnable run of matches upcoming and they remain top, two points clear of RB Leipzig, who lost 3-1 at home to Borussia Dortmund, for whom Erling Braut Haaland scored twice. Third-placed Bayer Leverkusen are four points off the top after drawing 1-1 with Werder Bremen.

<h2>- Milan unfazed by Juve defeat -</h2>

Three days after a 3-1 home loss to reigning champions Juventus which ended a 27-game unbeaten run in Serie A stretching back to June, AC Milan bounced back to beat Torino 2-0 at San Siro. With second-placed city rivals Inter drawing at Roma, Milan are now three points clear at the top of the table, and remain seven ahead of Juventus, who are fourth but do have a game in hand.

Added good news for Milan came with the return of veteran top scorer Zlatan Ibrahimovic as a late substitute for his first appearance since November 22 after injury. The Swede came on for Rafael Leao, who had earlier scored his third goal in five games. Can Zlatan now fire the Rossoneri to their first Scudetto since 2011?&nbsp;

<h2>- Lyon lead way in France -</h2>

Mauricio Pochettino got his first victory as coach of Paris Saint-Germain, a 3-0 defeat of Brest, but it is Lyon who lead halfway through the Ligue 1 season. They claimed the symbolic title of autumn champions after coming back from 2-0 down to draw 2-2 at Rennes on Saturday with Memphis Depay scoring one fine goal before setting up Jason Denayer's equaliser.

Rudi Garcia's team are unbeaten in 16 games although both PSG and Lille are just a point behind, and there is a very long way to go. Ensuring Depay stays to see out the remainder of his contract rather than leaving this month will be crucial.

Lionel Messi is bang in form in the new year, Schalke avoided matching the Bundesliga record for the most consecutive games without a win and there was a very rare defeat for Bayern Munich.

Lionel Messi is bang in form in the new year, Schalke avoided matching the Bundesliga record for the most consecutive games without a win and there was a very rare defeat for Bayern Munich. AFP Sport rounds up some of the main talking points from across the continent: - Messi means business - Lionel Messi looks like a man on a mission at the start of 2021 and what could be his final six months as a Barcelona player. On Saturday he scored twice -- including direct from a free-kick, one of his late-career specialities -- in a 4-0 win at Granada. That followed a masterful double and two shots off the post in a 3-2 midweek victory at Athletic Bilbao. Before that he provided the assist for Frenkie de Jong's winner at Huesca, and Barcelona have won three out of three since the turn of the year, while Messi is now La Liga's top scorer. Maybe it's not too late for Ronald Koeman's side to challenge for the title: they are third, four points behind leaders Atletico Madrid, albeit having played three games more. - New Hoppe for Schalke - Matthew Hoppe is the latest young American to break through in the Bundesliga and he is already a hero for Schalke supporters. The California-born 19-year-old, who made his debut in November, had never scored a senior goal before netting a hat-trick -- the first ever for an American in the Bundesliga -- in the 4-0 defeat of Hoffenheim that rescued the Royal Blues from equalling an unwanted record. Their first win since January 17 last year, after 30 games without, prevented them from matching Tasmania Berlin's infamous German top-flight record of 31 games without a victory set in 1965/66. Hoppe has given hope to a whole club, and suddenly Schalke have new cause for optimism as they bid to beat the drop. They are off the bottom, above Mainz, but they remain in the relegation zone. - Title race alive as Bayern come unstuck - Bayern Munich had begun to look a little less irresistible on a run of eight straight Bundesliga matches in which they had conceded the opening goal. But they had won five and drawn three of those matches. Then on Friday they were 2-0 up away to Borussia Moenchengladbach only to lose 3-2, just their second Bundesliga defeat since losing at the same ground in December 2019. It is a result that keeps the Bundesliga title race very much alive, although Hansi Flick's team have a winnable run of matches upcoming and they remain top, two points clear of RB Leipzig, who lost 3-1 at home to Borussia Dortmund, for whom Erling Braut Haaland scored twice. Third-placed Bayer Leverkusen are four points off the top after drawing 1-1 with Werder Bremen. - Milan unfazed by Juve defeat - Three days after a 3-1 home loss to reigning champions Juventus which ended a 27-game unbeaten run in Serie A stretching back to June, AC Milan bounced back to beat Torino 2-0 at San Siro. With second-placed city rivals Inter drawing at Roma, Milan are now three points clear at the top of the table, and remain seven ahead of Juventus, who are fourth but do have a game in hand. Added good news for Milan came with the return of veteran top scorer Zlatan Ibrahimovic as a late substitute for his first appearance since November 22 after injury. The Swede came on for Rafael Leao, who had earlier scored his third goal in five games. Can Zlatan now fire the Rossoneri to their first Scudetto since 2011? - Lyon lead way in France - Mauricio Pochettino got his first victory as coach of Paris Saint-Germain, a 3-0 defeat of Brest, but it is Lyon who lead halfway through the Ligue 1 season. They claimed the symbolic title of autumn champions after coming back from 2-0 down to draw 2-2 at Rennes on Saturday with Memphis Depay scoring one fine goal before setting up Jason Denayer's equaliser. Rudi Garcia's team are unbeaten in 16 games although both PSG and Lille are just a point behind, and there is a very long way to go. Ensuring Depay stays to see out the remainder of his contract rather than leaving this month will be crucial.

Messi on form, a new American star and Bayern beaten: Talking points from around Europe

Pep Guardiola says he is baffled by some of the coronavirus rules in the game, admitting he does not understand why certain matches have been postponed while others have gone ahead.

Four Premier League matches have so far been called off, including City's trip to Everton last month, but a different approach appears to have been taken in the FA Cup over the weekend.

Both Aston Villa and Derby fielded sides made up of youth players for their third-round ties after their entire first-team squads were told to isolate.

The Premier League last week called on players to tone down their celebrations in a set of reinforced Covid-19 protocols that also emphasised the need to avoid handshakes and shirt-swapping.

Britain is grappling with its worst outbreak of the disease since it hit the country early last year, though elite sport is allowed to continue.

City's own problems with the virus have continued, with Sergio Aguero forced to miss Sunday's 3-0 victory over Birmingham in the FA Cup third round.

The Argentine has been told to self-isolate after it was discovered he is a close contact of someone who has tested positive for the virus.

<h2>&nbsp;- 'Strange feeling' -&nbsp;</h2>

City have already been without eight other players following positive tests at various stages since Christmas Day.

Guardiola said the club would follow the new protocols but he said it was unrealistic to expect players not to celebrate goals.&nbsp;

"All of us (involved on match days) are tested negative, every two days. I don't know what is going to happen -- but one guy scores a goal, the joy to celebrate it, I don't know if he is going to think 'I cannot hug my mate for two, three seconds'," he said.

"There are teams with four or five cases and played 10 players from the under-23s in the FA Cup. We are four or five, the same situation, and we are here.

"One guy is isolated and the group has to continue. So, I don't know. We follow what the people say at the club, the Premier League. We follow the rules. That is what it is."

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta agreed with his former boss at City that it was tough for footballers to keep emotions in check, following scenes of changing-room celebrations after FA Cup games.

"To control emotions when you are playing at 200 mph is very difficult," he said. "We are asking our players at corners for example to be man-marking people, pushing people around and not fist-bump anyone."

Newcastle manager Steve Bruce last week questioned the morality of continuing to play during the worsening pandemic and Arteta acknowledged the unusual situation.

"Morally, with the situation we have in the country and the situation we have worldwide, to keep doing what we are doing, is a little bit of a strange feeling," he said.

"We know what we can bring to society if we are able to do it in a safe way."

Pep Guardiola says he is baffled by some of the coronavirus rules in the game, admitting he does not understand why certain matches have been postponed while others have gone ahead.

Pep Guardiola says he is baffled by some of the coronavirus rules in the game, admitting he does not understand why certain matches have been postponed while others have gone ahead. Four Premier League matches have so far been called off, including City's trip to Everton last month, but a different approach appears to have been taken in the FA Cup over the weekend. Both Aston Villa and Derby fielded sides made up of youth players for their third-round ties after their entire first-team squads were told to isolate. The Premier League last week called on players to tone down their celebrations in a set of reinforced Covid-19 protocols that also emphasised the need to avoid handshakes and shirt-swapping. Britain is grappling with its worst outbreak of the disease since it hit the country early last year, though elite sport is allowed to continue. City's own problems with the virus have continued, with Sergio Aguero forced to miss Sunday's 3-0 victory over Birmingham in the FA Cup third round. The Argentine has been told to self-isolate after it was discovered he is a close contact of someone who has tested positive for the virus. - 'Strange feeling' - City have already been without eight other players following positive tests at various stages since Christmas Day. Guardiola said the club would follow the new protocols but he said it was unrealistic to expect players not to celebrate goals. "All of us (involved on match days) are tested negative, every two days. I don't know what is going to happen -- but one guy scores a goal, the joy to celebrate it, I don't know if he is going to think 'I cannot hug my mate for two, three seconds'," he said. "There are teams with four or five cases and played 10 players from the under-23s in the FA Cup. We are four or five, the same situation, and we are here. "One guy is isolated and the group has to continue. So, I don't know. We follow what the people say at the club, the Premier League. We follow the rules. That is what it is." Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta agreed with his former boss at City that it was tough for footballers to keep emotions in check, following scenes of changing-room celebrations after FA Cup games. "To control emotions when you are playing at 200 mph is very difficult," he said. "We are asking our players at corners for example to be man-marking people, pushing people around and not fist-bump anyone." Newcastle manager Steve Bruce last week questioned the morality of continuing to play during the worsening pandemic and Arteta acknowledged the unusual situation. "Morally, with the situation we have in the country and the situation we have worldwide, to keep doing what we are doing, is a little bit of a strange feeling," he said. "We know what we can bring to society if we are able to do it in a safe way."

Man City boss Guardiola confused by football's virus rules

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