Borussia Dortmund striker Youssoufa Moukoko, aged 16 years and 18 days, became the youngest player in Champions League history on Tuesday when he came off the bench in a 2-1 victory away to Zenit Saint Petersburg.

Cameroon-born Moukoko, who made his European debut as a 58th-minute substitute in Russia, broke the previous record of Celestine Babayaro, who was 16 years and 87 days when he played for Anderlecht in November 1994.

Dortmund, who had already qualified for the last 16, equalised within minutes of Moukoko's introduction, with Lukasz Piszczek cancelling out Sebastian Driussi's first-half goal.

Axel Witsel's low shot from the edge of the area on 78 minutes won the game for Dortmund as they secured top spot ahead of Lazio in Group F.

"It was an ugly win that was more about our mentality than our quality, but you have to win games like this too," Dortmund captain Marco Reus told DAZN.

"With all the injuries on top of that too, a win like tonight and finishing top of the group feels good."

Moukoko, who has already played for Germany Under-20s, broke a record for the second time in three weeks, having become the Bundesliga's youngest player on November 21, the day after his 16th birthday.

He has been promoted to Dortmund's senior squad after smashing scoring records in German youth football, having initially moved to Hamburg, his father's home city, from Cameroon in 2014.

Borussia Dortmund striker Youssoufa Moukoko, aged 16 years and 18 days, became the youngest player in Champions League history on Tuesday when he came off the bench in a 2-1 victory away to Zenit Saint Petersburg.

Borussia Dortmund striker Youssoufa Moukoko, aged 16 years and 18 days, became the youngest player in Champions League history on Tuesday when he came off the bench in a 2-1 victory away to Zenit Saint Petersburg. Cameroon-born Moukoko, who made his European debut as a 58th-minute substitute in Russia, broke the previous record of Celestine Babayaro, who was 16 years and 87 days when he played for Anderlecht in November 1994. Dortmund, who had already qualified for the last 16, equalised within minutes of Moukoko's introduction, with Lukasz Piszczek cancelling out Sebastian Driussi's first-half goal. Axel Witsel's low shot from the edge of the area on 78 minutes won the game for Dortmund as they secured top spot ahead of Lazio in Group F. "It was an ugly win that was more about our mentality than our quality, but you have to win games like this too," Dortmund captain Marco Reus told DAZN. "With all the injuries on top of that too, a win like tonight and finishing top of the group feels good." Moukoko, who has already played for Germany Under-20s, broke a record for the second time in three weeks, having become the Bundesliga's youngest player on November 21, the day after his 16th birthday. He has been promoted to Dortmund's senior squad after smashing scoring records in German youth football, having initially moved to Hamburg, his father's home city, from Cameroon in 2014.

Moukoko, 16, becomes youngest Champions League player in Dortmund win

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer admitted his side struggled to cope with conceding two early goals as they crashed out of the Champions League on Tuesday with a 3-2 defeat at RB Leipzig who reached the last 16.

Leipzig were 3-0 up mid-way through the second half thanks to goals by Manchester City loanee Angelino, Amadou Haidara and Justin Kluivert at the Red Bull Arena.

United pulled back goals in the final ten minutes as Bruno Fernandes converted a penalty and replacement Paul Pogba scored with a deflected header, but Leipzig held on.

"We didn't front up until they scored the second goal," said Man Utd manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

"We knew they would come at us and put crosses into the box, but we conceded two early goals and never got going."

The German club's victory avenged their 5-0 drubbing by United at Old Trafford in October.

"The boys fought hard, they are machines," said delighted Leipzig coach Julian Nagelsmann.

Leipzig needed just two minutes to take the lead after Angelino's stunning opener.

"It feels very good. We made it difficult until the last minute, but at the end of the day we stayed strong," the Spanish fullback said.

"I'm so happy that we got the win."

Solskjaer made five changes from the side which won 3-1 at West Ham at the weekend, including Luke Shaw at left-back for his 150th appearance after recovering from a hamstring injury.

Pogba, whose agent has said the midfielder is "unhappy" at Old Trafford, started on the bench, but his late header gave United hope in Germany.

The hosts took the lead with just two minutes gone as Marcel Sabitzer's cross-field pass was met by left-back Angelino and his left-foot strike flew past David de Gea.

The United goalkeeper was beaten again on 13 minutes when Haidara finished a move he started by volleying home.

It could have been 3-0 moments later when Emil Forsberg ahot wide from close range with the goal at his mercy.

A speculative Mason Greenwood header and a half-chance by Marcus Rushford were all United produced in the opening half hour.

Leipzig had a goal disallowed when Ibrahima Konate headed onto the post and Willi Orban tapped home only to ruled offside by VAR.

United tightened their defence in the second half with Donny van de Beek replacing left winger Alex Telles, while Pogba came on for the final half hour.

United threatened as Fernandes fired wide and then hit the post, just before more poor defending allowed the hosts to grab their third goal.

Leipzig coach Julian Nagelsmann boosted his attack by bringing on forwards Yussuf Poulsen and Kluivert, who snapped up a Sabitzer cross and chipped De Gea with 69 minutes gone.&nbsp;

There was drama in the closing stages after Konate brought Greenwood down and Fernandes converted the penalty on 80 minutes.

Pogba then met a Fernandes deep corner unmarked at the far post and his header deflected off Konate to make it 3-2 on 82 minutes, but Leipzig held on in the tense closing exchanges.

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer admitted his side struggled to cope with conceding two early goals as they crashed out of the Champions League on Tuesday with a 3-2 defeat at RB Leipzig who reached the last 16.

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer admitted his side struggled to cope with conceding two early goals as they crashed out of the Champions League on Tuesday with a 3-2 defeat at RB Leipzig who reached the last 16. Leipzig were 3-0 up mid-way through the second half thanks to goals by Manchester City loanee Angelino, Amadou Haidara and Justin Kluivert at the Red Bull Arena. United pulled back goals in the final ten minutes as Bruno Fernandes converted a penalty and replacement Paul Pogba scored with a deflected header, but Leipzig held on. "We didn't front up until they scored the second goal," said Man Utd manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. "We knew they would come at us and put crosses into the box, but we conceded two early goals and never got going." The German club's victory avenged their 5-0 drubbing by United at Old Trafford in October. "The boys fought hard, they are machines," said delighted Leipzig coach Julian Nagelsmann. Leipzig needed just two minutes to take the lead after Angelino's stunning opener. "It feels very good. We made it difficult until the last minute, but at the end of the day we stayed strong," the Spanish fullback said. "I'm so happy that we got the win." Solskjaer made five changes from the side which won 3-1 at West Ham at the weekend, including Luke Shaw at left-back for his 150th appearance after recovering from a hamstring injury. Pogba, whose agent has said the midfielder is "unhappy" at Old Trafford, started on the bench, but his late header gave United hope in Germany. The hosts took the lead with just two minutes gone as Marcel Sabitzer's cross-field pass was met by left-back Angelino and his left-foot strike flew past David de Gea. The United goalkeeper was beaten again on 13 minutes when Haidara finished a move he started by volleying home. It could have been 3-0 moments later when Emil Forsberg ahot wide from close range with the goal at his mercy. A speculative Mason Greenwood header and a half-chance by Marcus Rushford were all United produced in the opening half hour. Leipzig had a goal disallowed when Ibrahima Konate headed onto the post and Willi Orban tapped home only to ruled offside by VAR. United tightened their defence in the second half with Donny van de Beek replacing left winger Alex Telles, while Pogba came on for the final half hour. United threatened as Fernandes fired wide and then hit the post, just before more poor defending allowed the hosts to grab their third goal. Leipzig coach Julian Nagelsmann boosted his attack by bringing on forwards Yussuf Poulsen and Kluivert, who snapped up a Sabitzer cross and chipped De Gea with 69 minutes gone. There was drama in the closing stages after Konate brought Greenwood down and Fernandes converted the penalty on 80 minutes. Pogba then met a Fernandes deep corner unmarked at the far post and his header deflected off Konate to make it 3-2 on 82 minutes, but Leipzig held on in the tense closing exchanges.

Man Utd stumble out of Champions League with loss in Leipzig

Cristiano Ronaldo struck twice from the penalty spot to win his battle with rival Lionel Messi and guide Juventus to a 3-0 win over Barcelona on Tuesday, earning the Italians top spot in Champions League Group G.

The former Real Madrid striker and his Argentina counterpart traded Ballon d'Or wins for a decade between 2008-2017 and were figureheads for the duelling Spanish giants, but there was only one winner at the Camp Nou as they met for the first time since Ronaldo's departure for Juve in 2018.

Andrea Pirlo's Juventus lost 2-0 at home against Barcelona in October without Ronaldo, sidelined with Covid-19, but were greatly improved and earned the first Champions League away win against Barcelona since Bayern Munich triumphed in 2013.

Both sides, tied on 15 points, were assured of qualification before kick-off, but Juve's three-goal victory handed them a superior head-to-head record.

"When you have this desire to sacrifice yourself and an infallible sniper, like Ronaldo, you are sure you can win these matches," Bonucci told Sky Sport Italia.

"As we showed in the derby (win over Torino), if we play with this desire, we bring home the results we want. The next step is to do this in all our games."

Ronald Koeman, reeling from Barcelona's 2-1 defeat by promoted minnows Cadiz on Saturday in La Liga, reacted by making four changes but the hosts started badly.

It only took 13 minutes for Ronaldo to break the deadlock, slotting home from the penalty spot after the referee deemed Ronald Araujo's challenge on him a foul.

Juventus did not relent and their pressure led to a second goal, US midfielder Weston McKennie volleying home Juan Cuadrado's sweetly clipped cross in the 20th minute.

The Catalans and their captain Messi finally woke from their slumber, as the attacker had one effort blocked by Matthijs de Ligt and another saved by veteran goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon, while Pjanic lashed over the bar.

Ronaldo notched his second from the penalty spot in the 52nd minute after Clement Lenglet handled clumsily in the area, as the hosts imploded.

Antoine Griezmann, who was invisible in the first half, grazed the crossbar with a looping header from a Messi free kick, and Buffon beat out another effort, with De Ligt's pressure enough to stop Martin Braithwaite converting the rebound.

Leonardo Bonucci had a fourth goal ruled out for offside after he tapped in Ronaldo's effort from close range, with Messi trying in vain at the other end to answer Ronaldo, but he found the 42-year-old Buffon in his way time and time again.

Griezmann was critical of his own side after they fell to their first home Champions League group stage defeat since 2009.

"We were not good enough, they over-ran us in the first half, we lacked everything," he told Movistar.&nbsp;

"A lack of attitude, desire, wanting to run, defending, attacking, everything was bad."

Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen was also unhappy.

"There are two things, one thing is individual mistakes, and the other is how the team defends, these are different things," he said.

"Right now teams can score against us in any given moment. This is very tough, we need to come out of this, and work very hard."

Cristiano Ronaldo struck twice from the penalty spot to win his battle with rival Lionel Messi and guide Juventus to a 3-0 win over Barcelona on Tuesday, earning the Italians top spot in Champions League Group G.

Cristiano Ronaldo struck twice from the penalty spot to win his battle with rival Lionel Messi and guide Juventus to a 3-0 win over Barcelona on Tuesday, earning the Italians top spot in Champions League Group G. The former Real Madrid striker and his Argentina counterpart traded Ballon d'Or wins for a decade between 2008-2017 and were figureheads for the duelling Spanish giants, but there was only one winner at the Camp Nou as they met for the first time since Ronaldo's departure for Juve in 2018. Andrea Pirlo's Juventus lost 2-0 at home against Barcelona in October without Ronaldo, sidelined with Covid-19, but were greatly improved and earned the first Champions League away win against Barcelona since Bayern Munich triumphed in 2013. Both sides, tied on 15 points, were assured of qualification before kick-off, but Juve's three-goal victory handed them a superior head-to-head record. "When you have this desire to sacrifice yourself and an infallible sniper, like Ronaldo, you are sure you can win these matches," Bonucci told Sky Sport Italia. "As we showed in the derby (win over Torino), if we play with this desire, we bring home the results we want. The next step is to do this in all our games." Ronald Koeman, reeling from Barcelona's 2-1 defeat by promoted minnows Cadiz on Saturday in La Liga, reacted by making four changes but the hosts started badly. It only took 13 minutes for Ronaldo to break the deadlock, slotting home from the penalty spot after the referee deemed Ronald Araujo's challenge on him a foul. Juventus did not relent and their pressure led to a second goal, US midfielder Weston McKennie volleying home Juan Cuadrado's sweetly clipped cross in the 20th minute. The Catalans and their captain Messi finally woke from their slumber, as the attacker had one effort blocked by Matthijs de Ligt and another saved by veteran goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon, while Pjanic lashed over the bar. Ronaldo notched his second from the penalty spot in the 52nd minute after Clement Lenglet handled clumsily in the area, as the hosts imploded. Antoine Griezmann, who was invisible in the first half, grazed the crossbar with a looping header from a Messi free kick, and Buffon beat out another effort, with De Ligt's pressure enough to stop Martin Braithwaite converting the rebound. Leonardo Bonucci had a fourth goal ruled out for offside after he tapped in Ronaldo's effort from close range, with Messi trying in vain at the other end to answer Ronaldo, but he found the 42-year-old Buffon in his way time and time again. Griezmann was critical of his own side after they fell to their first home Champions League group stage defeat since 2009. "We were not good enough, they over-ran us in the first half, we lacked everything," he told Movistar. "A lack of attitude, desire, wanting to run, defending, attacking, everything was bad." Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen was also unhappy. "There are two things, one thing is individual mistakes, and the other is how the team defends, these are different things," he said. "Right now teams can score against us in any given moment. This is very tough, we need to come out of this, and work very hard."

Ronaldo scores twice as Juve crush Messi's troubled Barcelona

Paris Saint-Germain and Istanbul Basaksehir staged an unprecedented joint walk-out over alleged racism by a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/uefa-champions-league">Champions League</a> match official on Tuesday, prompting UEFA to suspend the game and launch an investigation.

Both teams left the pitch after a lengthy touchline row which erupted when the Romanian fourth official, Sebastian Coltescu, appeared to describe Basaksehir assistant coach Pierre Webo, the former Cameroon international, as "black", or "negru" in Romanian.

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Demba Ba responding to what was said by the fourth official in PSG vs Basaksehir <a href="https://t.co/mFGJgSW1X4">pic.twitter.com/mFGJgSW1X4</a>
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&nbsp;

The group game in Paris, which was goalless at the time, was suspended and will resume where it left off, in the 14th minute, on Wednesday, with a different set of match officials.

Many athletes have taken a strong stand against racism since Black Lives Matter protests flared around the world over the death of George Floyd during his arrest in Minneapolis in May.

PSG striker Kylian Mbappe tweeted, "Say no to racism", while team-mate Neymar posted, "Black Lives Matter". Both players were prominent in the heated discussions on the touchline.

Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who is understood to be close to Basaksehir's owners, tweeted that he "strongly condemn(s) the racist remarks", while Romanian-born French sports minister Roxanna Maracineanu praised the players' "historic decision".

Basaksehir midfielder Giuliano told Brazilian media: "(The comment) was very clear, many people heard, including our coach. It was disgraceful.

"As a team and a group, we decided to protest because that is unacceptable. Racism has to end."

The row blew up after Webo was shown a red card. Television microphones in the empty Parc des Princes stadium then picked up a furious Webo repeatedly asking why a racist term had been used to describe him.

In the exchange in question between the all-Romanian officiating team, Coltescu said: "The black one over there. This is not possible. Go and identify him. That guy, the black one."

Basaksehir's Senegal international striker Demba Ba, among the substitutes for the away side, could be heard remonstrating with the official, saying in English: "When you mention a white guy, you never say 'this white guy', you just say 'this guy', so why when you mention a black guy do you say 'this black guy?'"

<h2>- 'No to racism' -&nbsp;</h2>

UEFA promised a "thorough investigation" into the incident and confirmed the match would restart at 1755 GMT on Wednesday.

European football's governing body said it had "decided on an exceptional basis to have the remaining minutes of the match played (Wednesday) with a new team of match officials".

UEFA's regulations for the Champions League stipulate that, normally, any team refusing to play must forfeit the game and also faces a fine of 250,000 euros ($303,000).

Danny Makkelie of the Netherlands was named as the referee for the remainder of the game, with the other officials from the Netherlands and Poland. They replace Romanian referee Ovidiu Hategan, his two assistants and Coltescu.

The president of the Turkish champions said his side refused to restart the game as long as the fourth official was still involved.

"The fourth official used the word 'negro' in front of everybody. If the fourth official is removed from the pitch, then we will restart," Goksel Gumusdag told Turkish television channel TRT Spor.

Basaksehir responded to the incidents by tweeting "NO TO RACISM #Respect", along with a photo of UEFA's anti-racism logo.

The message was retweeted by PSG, who later tweeted their support on their English-language feed.

"All forms of racism go against the values held by Paris Saint-Germain, the club's Chairman, staff and players," the French champions said.

Despite the interruption of the match, played behind closed doors because of the coronavirus pandemic, PSG qualified for the last 16 from Group H after RB Leipzig beat Manchester United 3-2 in Germany.

However, PSG will need to win the game in order to finish on top of the group above Leipzig.

Paris Saint-Germain and Istanbul Basaksehir staged an unprecedented joint walk-out over alleged racism by a Champions League match official on Tuesday, prompting UEFA to suspend the game and launch an investigation.

Paris Saint-Germain and Istanbul Basaksehir staged an unprecedented joint walk-out over alleged racism by a Champions League match official on Tuesday, prompting UEFA to suspend the game and launch an investigation. Both teams left the pitch after a lengthy touchline row which erupted when the Romanian fourth official, Sebastian Coltescu, appeared to describe Basaksehir assistant coach Pierre Webo, the former Cameroon international, as "black", or "negru" in Romanian. Demba Ba responding to what was said by the fourth official in PSG vs Basaksehir pic.twitter.com/mFGJgSW1X4 — FIFA 21 News (@FUT21News) December 8, 2020 × The group game in Paris, which was goalless at the time, was suspended and will resume where it left off, in the 14th minute, on Wednesday, with a different set of match officials. Many athletes have taken a strong stand against racism since Black Lives Matter protests flared around the world over the death of George Floyd during his arrest in Minneapolis in May. PSG striker Kylian Mbappe tweeted, "Say no to racism", while team-mate Neymar posted, "Black Lives Matter". Both players were prominent in the heated discussions on the touchline. Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who is understood to be close to Basaksehir's owners, tweeted that he "strongly condemn(s) the racist remarks", while Romanian-born French sports minister Roxanna Maracineanu praised the players' "historic decision". Basaksehir midfielder Giuliano told Brazilian media: "(The comment) was very clear, many people heard, including our coach. It was disgraceful. "As a team and a group, we decided to protest because that is unacceptable. Racism has to end." The row blew up after Webo was shown a red card. Television microphones in the empty Parc des Princes stadium then picked up a furious Webo repeatedly asking why a racist term had been used to describe him. In the exchange in question between the all-Romanian officiating team, Coltescu said: "The black one over there. This is not possible. Go and identify him. That guy, the black one." Basaksehir's Senegal international striker Demba Ba, among the substitutes for the away side, could be heard remonstrating with the official, saying in English: "When you mention a white guy, you never say 'this white guy', you just say 'this guy', so why when you mention a black guy do you say 'this black guy?'" - 'No to racism' - UEFA promised a "thorough investigation" into the incident and confirmed the match would restart at 1755 GMT on Wednesday. European football's governing body said it had "decided on an exceptional basis to have the remaining minutes of the match played (Wednesday) with a new team of match officials". UEFA's regulations for the Champions League stipulate that, normally, any team refusing to play must forfeit the game and also faces a fine of 250,000 euros ($303,000). Danny Makkelie of the Netherlands was named as the referee for the remainder of the game, with the other officials from the Netherlands and Poland. They replace Romanian referee Ovidiu Hategan, his two assistants and Coltescu. The president of the Turkish champions said his side refused to restart the game as long as the fourth official was still involved. "The fourth official used the word 'negro' in front of everybody. If the fourth official is removed from the pitch, then we will restart," Goksel Gumusdag told Turkish television channel TRT Spor. Basaksehir responded to the incidents by tweeting "NO TO RACISM #Respect", along with a photo of UEFA's anti-racism logo. The message was retweeted by PSG, who later tweeted their support on their English-language feed. "All forms of racism go against the values held by Paris Saint-Germain, the club's Chairman, staff and players," the French champions said. Despite the interruption of the match, played behind closed doors because of the coronavirus pandemic, PSG qualified for the last 16 from Group H after RB Leipzig beat Manchester United 3-2 in Germany. However, PSG will need to win the game in order to finish on top of the group above Leipzig.

PSG, Basaksehir stage Champions League walk-out over official's alleged racism

From LeBron James to Hamilton: Sporting icons condemn US police for the death of George Floyd

The schedule for England Test tour of Sri Lanka has been confirmed. England will play two Test matches behind closed doors at the Galle International Cricket Stadium from January 2021.

The England and Wales Cricket Board and Sri Lanka Cricket have agreed to biosecurity and travel plans for what is a rearranged tour following the postponement in March due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The first Test will commence on 14-18 January with the second Test on 22-26 January.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-hints-at-skipping-pink-ball-warm-up-match-against-australia-a-348609" hreflang="en">Virat Kohli hints at skipping pink-ball warm-up match against Australia A</a>

The touring party will depart on a chartered flight on 2 January and will be subject to quarantine in Hambantota. During this period, the team will be able to train and prepare for five days from 5-9 January at the Mahinda Rajapaksa International Cricket Stadium.

The two-match Test series forms part of the ICC World Test Championship. This will be England’s penultimate series in the inaugural tournament, and they hope to conclude their campaign against India in February, subject to confirmation of the India tour schedule.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/suresh-raina-to-return-for-ipl-202021-and-syed-mushtaq-ali-348610" hreflang="en">Suresh Raina to return for IPL 2020/21 and Syed Mushtaq Ali</a>

<h2 data-ogsc="rgb(85, 85, 85)">England tour of Sri Lanka: Complete Schedule</h2>

Saturday 2 January:&nbsp;Touring party departs from London to Hambantota

Tuesday 5-9 January:&nbsp;Training and preparation at Mahinda Rajapaksa International Cricket Stadium, Hambantota

Thursday 14-18 January:&nbsp;1st Test match – Sri Lanka v England, Galle International Cricket Stadium, Galle

Friday 22-26 January:&nbsp;2nd Test match – Sri Lanka v England, Galle International Cricket Stadium, Galle

Wednesday 27 January:&nbsp;Touring party departs Sri Lanka

The schedule for England Test tour of Sri Lanka has been confirmed. England will play two Test matches behind closed doors at the Galle International Cricket Stadium from January 2021.

The schedule for England Test tour of Sri Lanka has been confirmed. England will play two Test matches behind closed doors at the Galle International Cricket Stadium from January 2021. The England and Wales Cricket Board and Sri Lanka Cricket have agreed to biosecurity and travel plans for what is a rearranged tour following the postponement in March due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The first Test will commence on 14-18 January with the second Test on 22-26 January. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli hints at skipping pink-ball warm-up match against Australia A The touring party will depart on a chartered flight on 2 January and will be subject to quarantine in Hambantota. During this period, the team will be able to train and prepare for five days from 5-9 January at the Mahinda Rajapaksa International Cricket Stadium. The two-match Test series forms part of the ICC World Test Championship. This will be England’s penultimate series in the inaugural tournament, and they hope to conclude their campaign against India in February, subject to confirmation of the India tour schedule. ALSO READ: Suresh Raina to return for IPL 2020/21 and Syed Mushtaq Ali England tour of Sri Lanka: Complete Schedule Saturday 2 January: Touring party departs from London to Hambantota Tuesday 5-9 January: Training and preparation at Mahinda Rajapaksa International Cricket Stadium, Hambantota Thursday 14-18 January: 1st Test match – Sri Lanka v England, Galle International Cricket Stadium, Galle Friday 22-26 January: 2nd Test match – Sri Lanka v England, Galle International Cricket Stadium, Galle Wednesday 27 January: Touring party departs Sri Lanka

​England's Test tour of Sri Lanka confirmed; here's complete schedule

The action in India’s tour of Australia 2020-21 will now move to the four-match Test series after the successful completion of the ODI and T20I series. The much-awaited Border-Gavaskar Trophy is set to commence from December 17 with the pink-ball Test. Preparations for the much-awaited day-night Test is already running in full flow and the Indian team is scheduled to play a practice match against Australia A, under the lights with the pink ball.&nbsp;

However, India A might be without Virat Kohli in the pink-ball warm-up match with the Indian skipper expected to rest. Kohli has been playing continuous cricket since the IPL 2020 began and didn’t miss a single match in the white-ball matches against Australia.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-bosses-sourav-ganguly-jay-shah-to-continue-as-supreme-court-lists-next-hearing-in-january-348601" hreflang="en">BCCI bosses Sourav Ganguly, Jay Shah to continue as Supreme Court lists next hearing in January</a>

India are expected to field players from the Test squad, who were also part of the limited-overs series but Kohli has hinted he might not be a part of the match.

After the completion of the third T20I, Kohli said he would only take part in the match if his body allows doing so. He said that playing for a specific part of the match is not his thing and will only play the full game if the physios give him clearance.&nbsp;

"I will wake up tomorrow and see if I can play the tour match. Playing it on and off is not my thing and I like to play the full game. I will talk to our physio and then decide on my participation," he said on Tuesday (December 8).

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-overshadows-coronavirus-tops-list-of-most-trending-search-on-google-india-in-2020-348595" hreflang="en">IPL overshadows coronavirus, tops list of most trending search on Google India in 2020</a>

Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami are confirmed to participate in the pink-ball warm-up match against Australia A after getting adequate rest in the white-ball encounters. If Kohli misses out, then Ajinkya Rahane is expected to continue to lead the side.&nbsp;

The second first-class match between India A and Australia A will kick off on December 11. The match will be played at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

The action in India’s tour of Australia 2020-21 will now move to the four-match Test series after the successful completion of the ODI and T20I series. The much-awaited Border-Gavaskar Trophy is set to commence from December 17 with the pink-ball Test.

The action in India’s tour of Australia 2020-21 will now move to the four-match Test series after the successful completion of the ODI and T20I series. The much-awaited Border-Gavaskar Trophy is set to commence from December 17 with the pink-ball Test. Preparations for the much-awaited day-night Test is already running in full flow and the Indian team is scheduled to play a practice match against Australia A, under the lights with the pink ball. However, India A might be without Virat Kohli in the pink-ball warm-up match with the Indian skipper expected to rest. Kohli has been playing continuous cricket since the IPL 2020 began and didn’t miss a single match in the white-ball matches against Australia. ALSO READ: BCCI bosses Sourav Ganguly, Jay Shah to continue as Supreme Court lists next hearing in January India are expected to field players from the Test squad, who were also part of the limited-overs series but Kohli has hinted he might not be a part of the match. After the completion of the third T20I, Kohli said he would only take part in the match if his body allows doing so. He said that playing for a specific part of the match is not his thing and will only play the full game if the physios give him clearance. "I will wake up tomorrow and see if I can play the tour match. Playing it on and off is not my thing and I like to play the full game. I will talk to our physio and then decide on my participation," he said on Tuesday (December 8). ALSO READ: IPL overshadows coronavirus, tops list of most trending search on Google India in 2020 Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami are confirmed to participate in the pink-ball warm-up match against Australia A after getting adequate rest in the white-ball encounters. If Kohli misses out, then Ajinkya Rahane is expected to continue to lead the side. The second first-class match between India A and Australia A will kick off on December 11. The match will be played at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

Virat Kohli hints at skipping pink-ball warm-up match against Australia A

The Supreme Court on Wednesday disposed of a "substantial number" of interlocutory applications, filed by state cricket associations, in the cricket reforms case. But a ruling on continuation of BCCI president Sourav Ganguly, secretary Jay Shah, and joint secretary Jayesh George, whose terms have got over, was deferred to the next year.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has filed an application in the top court, seeking crucial amendments to the Supreme Court-approved constitution, framed by the SC-appointed Lodha Committee.

The court on Wednesday asked the case to be listed in the third week of January.

"A substantial number of applications were disposed by the court today. A large number of cases that were related to funds have become infructuous while the court said that in the state cricket associations where the amicus curiae (Narasimha) had successfully mediated and helped their hold elections, like Karnataka, were also disposed of," Narasimha told IANS after the hearing.

"Only some cases remains, and the court asked these to be listed in the third week of January. The BCCI application seeking amendments to its constitution was not taken up today," he said.

It means that Ganguly, Shah, and George would continue in the chair in 2021, despite their terms having got over the past few months. Interestingly, the BCCI will be having its Annual General Body Meeting (AGM) on December 24, and Ganguly would chair that meeting, with Shah and George in attendance.

The new BCCI constitution makes it mandatory for its office-bearers -- president, vice-president, secretary, joint secretary, and treasurer -- to go into a three-year cooling-off period after being in the chair for six consecutive years, either in the BCCI or its affiliate state associations, or a combination of both.

The person can return for another term of three years after the cooling-off period (a person can be an office-bearer in the BCCI for a maximum of nine years and another nine years in a state association). And this is one of the seven crucial rules, on which the edifice of the new constitution is erected, and which the BCCI wants amended, and that would allow the present office-bearers to continue in the chair.

After being elected BCCI president on October 23 last year, Ganguly had only 278 days to remain as the BCCI chief as his previous tenure at the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) was added to his BCCI term (he had joined the CAB as a joint secretary on July 2014). So, his BCCI term effectively ended on July 26, 2020.

Secretary Shah, according to reports published in mainline newspapers in 2013, took over as joint secretary of the Gujarat Cricket Association (GCA) on September 8, 2013, though he was a GCA executive before that. And he has been associated with the GCA since. So, his tenure, too, has got over some time ago.

George has been a secretary, joint-secretary, and treasurer of the Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) for five years and has completed one year as BCCI joint secretary. In September last year, at the time of KCA elections, he was quoted in newspapers as saying: "I was an office-bearer from June 21, 2013, to July 7, 2018. I still have 11 months to complete the six-year term."

He took a break between July 7, 2018, and September 14, 2019. On September 15, 2019, he became KCA president, a post he relinquished when he became BCCI joint secretary on October 23, 2019. That means he has completed six years continuously as a cricket administrator, excluding the break. Accordingly, he should have gone into cooling off period on September 14.

All three officials are, however, staying put as they are awaiting Supreme Court's directions on their application that seeks to affect seven amendments to the new BCCI constitution that the apex court has approved. Essentially, their bid is to get rid of Rule 45, which makes it mandatory for the BCCI to get all amendments approved by the Supreme Court, amended.

If this single rule is amended, the spirit and soul of the reforms would die an instant death. And the crores of rupees that BCCI has spent on litigation and the seven-and-a-half years that Supreme Court has devoted to this case would go down the drain. If the amendment takes place, the beneficiary would not only be Ganguly, Shah, and George, but all other present and future office-bearers, both at the BCCI and its affiliated state cricket associations.

The Supreme Court on Wednesday disposed of a "substantial number" of interlocutory applications, filed by state cricket associations, in the cricket reforms case.

The Supreme Court on Wednesday disposed of a "substantial number" of interlocutory applications, filed by state cricket associations, in the cricket reforms case. But a ruling on continuation of BCCI president Sourav Ganguly, secretary Jay Shah, and joint secretary Jayesh George, whose terms have got over, was deferred to the next year. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has filed an application in the top court, seeking crucial amendments to the Supreme Court-approved constitution, framed by the SC-appointed Lodha Committee. The court on Wednesday asked the case to be listed in the third week of January. "A substantial number of applications were disposed by the court today. A large number of cases that were related to funds have become infructuous while the court said that in the state cricket associations where the amicus curiae (Narasimha) had successfully mediated and helped their hold elections, like Karnataka, were also disposed of," Narasimha told IANS after the hearing. "Only some cases remains, and the court asked these to be listed in the third week of January. The BCCI application seeking amendments to its constitution was not taken up today," he said. It means that Ganguly, Shah, and George would continue in the chair in 2021, despite their terms having got over the past few months. Interestingly, the BCCI will be having its Annual General Body Meeting (AGM) on December 24, and Ganguly would chair that meeting, with Shah and George in attendance. The new BCCI constitution makes it mandatory for its office-bearers -- president, vice-president, secretary, joint secretary, and treasurer -- to go into a three-year cooling-off period after being in the chair for six consecutive years, either in the BCCI or its affiliate state associations, or a combination of both. The person can return for another term of three years after the cooling-off period (a person can be an office-bearer in the BCCI for a maximum of nine years and another nine years in a state association). And this is one of the seven crucial rules, on which the edifice of the new constitution is erected, and which the BCCI wants amended, and that would allow the present office-bearers to continue in the chair. After being elected BCCI president on October 23 last year, Ganguly had only 278 days to remain as the BCCI chief as his previous tenure at the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) was added to his BCCI term (he had joined the CAB as a joint secretary on July 2014). So, his BCCI term effectively ended on July 26, 2020. Secretary Shah, according to reports published in mainline newspapers in 2013, took over as joint secretary of the Gujarat Cricket Association (GCA) on September 8, 2013, though he was a GCA executive before that. And he has been associated with the GCA since. So, his tenure, too, has got over some time ago. George has been a secretary, joint-secretary, and treasurer of the Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) for five years and has completed one year as BCCI joint secretary. In September last year, at the time of KCA elections, he was quoted in newspapers as saying: "I was an office-bearer from June 21, 2013, to July 7, 2018. I still have 11 months to complete the six-year term." He took a break between July 7, 2018, and September 14, 2019. On September 15, 2019, he became KCA president, a post he relinquished when he became BCCI joint secretary on October 23, 2019. That means he has completed six years continuously as a cricket administrator, excluding the break. Accordingly, he should have gone into cooling off period on September 14. All three officials are, however, staying put as they are awaiting Supreme Court's directions on their application that seeks to affect seven amendments to the new BCCI constitution that the apex court has approved. Essentially, their bid is to get rid of Rule 45, which makes it mandatory for the BCCI to get all amendments approved by the Supreme Court, amended. If this single rule is amended, the spirit and soul of the reforms would die an instant death. And the crores of rupees that BCCI has spent on litigation and the seven-and-a-half years that Supreme Court has devoted to this case would go down the drain. If the amendment takes place, the beneficiary would not only be Ganguly, Shah, and George, but all other present and future office-bearers, both at the BCCI and its affiliated state cricket associations.

BCCI bosses Sourav Ganguly, Jay Shah to continue as Supreme Court lists next hearing in January

The ‘<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">Indian Premier League</a>’ (IPL) became the most searched query on Google in India for the year 2020 – the same year in which ‘coronavirus’ or ‘COVID-19’ wreaked havoc and disrupted the lifestyle of almost the entire world.

Cricket, which was suspended for months like many other sports due to the deadly virus, came as a relief for a cricket-crazy country like India and with IPL 2020 in the UAE becoming the first multi-team tournament to be held post-lockdown, the term ‘Indian Premier League’ broke records as it became the most searched query on Google in India.&nbsp;

Google India on Wednesday announced that Indian Premier League beat the massively trending searches as coronavirus or COVID-19 for the top trending query for the entire year. The news of the postponement of IPL 2020 also played a major role in topping the query list on Google.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-wicketkeeper-parthiv-patel-retires-from-all-forms-of-cricket-348528" hreflang="en">Indian wicketkeeper Parthiv Patel retires from all forms of cricket</a>

IPL, which became the most searched sport and news event, was followed by the likes of coronavirus, US elections results, Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sammann Nidhi (PM Kisan Scheme), Bihar election results and Delhi election results in the overall top trending query on the search engine giants Google.

In the year 2019, the top-most trending query on Google Search was ‘ICC Cricket World Cup’ – which was won by England for the first time ever.

With IPL 2020 shifted to the UAE and matches played behind closed doors, the viewership figures also increased a record-breaking 28 per cent as compared to IPL 2019.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-left-fuming-as-umpires-deny-india-a-drs-opportunity-due-to-early-replay-348355" hreflang="en">Virat Kohli left fuming as umpires deny India a DRS opportunity due to 'early' replay</a>

Following the IPL, UEFA Champion League, English Premier League, French Open and La Liga were among the most searched sporting events on Google in India as the nation continues to show why it is regarded as one of the biggest markets for the sporting world. 
&nbsp;

The ‘Indian Premier League’ (IPL) became the most searched query on Google in India for the year 2020 – the same year in which ‘coronavirus’ or ‘COVID-19’ wreaked havoc and disrupted the lifestyle of almost the entire world.

The ‘Indian Premier League’ (IPL) became the most searched query on Google in India for the year 2020 – the same year in which ‘coronavirus’ or ‘COVID-19’ wreaked havoc and disrupted the lifestyle of almost the entire world. Cricket, which was suspended for months like many other sports due to the deadly virus, came as a relief for a cricket-crazy country like India and with IPL 2020 in the UAE becoming the first multi-team tournament to be held post-lockdown, the term ‘Indian Premier League’ broke records as it became the most searched query on Google in India. Google India on Wednesday announced that Indian Premier League beat the massively trending searches as coronavirus or COVID-19 for the top trending query for the entire year. The news of the postponement of IPL 2020 also played a major role in topping the query list on Google. ALSO READ: Indian wicketkeeper Parthiv Patel retires from all forms of cricket IPL, which became the most searched sport and news event, was followed by the likes of coronavirus, US elections results, Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sammann Nidhi (PM Kisan Scheme), Bihar election results and Delhi election results in the overall top trending query on the search engine giants Google. In the year 2019, the top-most trending query on Google Search was ‘ICC Cricket World Cup’ – which was won by England for the first time ever. With IPL 2020 shifted to the UAE and matches played behind closed doors, the viewership figures also increased a record-breaking 28 per cent as compared to IPL 2019. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli left fuming as umpires deny India a DRS opportunity due to 'early' replay Following the IPL, UEFA Champion League, English Premier League, French Open and La Liga were among the most searched sporting events on Google in India as the nation continues to show why it is regarded as one of the biggest markets for the sporting world.

IPL overshadows coronavirus, tops list of most trending search on Google India in 2020

The Instagram account of the fourth official in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/uefa-champions-league">UEFA Champions League</a> match between Paris Saint-Germain and Istanbul Basaksehir has been apparently hacked as his profile picture was replaced by an image of Istanbul Basaksehir’s assistant manager Pierre Webo, whom Coltescu allegedly identified using the Romanian word for black.

As per reports, the hackers, who appeared to be Turkish, further changed Coltescu’s bio to include a “No To Racism” hashtag.&nbsp;

<img alt="Ref" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="896d14ae-f6c7-49cc-bb7b-8e126375fe39" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/36628434-9033883-The_Instagram_account_of_the_Romanian_fourth_official_Sebastian_-a-26_1607502603593.jpg" />

Coltescu’s alleged use of racism language triggered both Basaksehir and PSG walking off the pitch as a sign of protest at the Parc des Princes.

TRENDING |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-from-demba-bas-reaction-to-fourth-officials-explanation-how-psg-vs-istanbul-basaksehir-racism-row-unfurled-348514" hreflang="en">Watch - From Demba Ba's reaction to fourth official's explanation: How PSG vs Istanbul Basaksehir racism row unfurled</a>

With the match paused at 24 minutes, the remaining 76 minutes of the Group H match between PSG and Istanbul Basaksehir has been rescheduled for Wednesday evening with a different set of UEFA refereeing team appointed for the encounter.

Webo vocally protested a decision on the touchline during the first half of the match.

As the referee came over, footage appeared to show Coltescu identifying Webo by saying: 'The black one over there. Go and check who he is. The black one over there, it's not possible to act like that'.

It is being reported that Coltescu said&nbsp;a Romanian word for black. Webo overheard the match official in an empty stadium and immediately accused Coltescu of racism and was shown a straight red card.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/psg-basaksehir-stage-champions-league-walk-out-over-officials-alleged-racism-348492" hreflang="en">PSG, Basaksehir stage Champions League walk-out over official's alleged racism</a>

Former Chelsea forward Demba Ba, on the substitute bench for Istanbul Basaksehir, questioned Webo why he had used the discriminatory word to identify Webo.

He said: 'You never say "this white guy", you say "this guy", so why when you're mentioning him... listen to me... why when you mention a black guy, why do you say "this black guy."'

Players and staff of both Basaksehir and PSG were pretty vocal about the incident and left the pitch after around 10 minutes of discussion with the main referee Ovidiu Hategan.

TV footage also showed PSG's French defender Presnel Kimpembe saying: 'Is he serious? We are heading in. We're heading in. That's it, we're heading in.' Basaksehir coach Okan Buruk was heard saying ‘you are racist’ to Coltescu.

After a long wait, the match was called off on Tuesday and will resume from the same point on Wednesday.

Istanbul Basaksehir took to Twitter: 'Our players have taken a decision NOT TO go back on the pitch after our Assistant Coach Pierre Webo has been exposed to racist behaviour by the 4th Official.'

The incident has led to staunch criticism of racial acts in the world of football with former England international Rio Ferdinand saying “football is at the tipping point” and higher authorities should take some strong action if they want to put an end to discrimination. 
&nbsp;

The Instagram account of the fourth official in the UEFA Champions League match between Paris Saint-Germain and Istanbul Basaksehir has been apparently hacked as his profile picture was replaced by an image of Istanbul Basaksehir’s assistant manager Pierre Webo, whom Coltescu allegedly identified using the Romanian word for black.

The Instagram account of the fourth official in the UEFA Champions League match between Paris Saint-Germain and Istanbul Basaksehir has been apparently hacked as his profile picture was replaced by an image of Istanbul Basaksehir’s assistant manager Pierre Webo, whom Coltescu allegedly identified using the Romanian word for black. As per reports, the hackers, who appeared to be Turkish, further changed Coltescu’s bio to include a “No To Racism” hashtag. Coltescu’s alleged use of racism language triggered both Basaksehir and PSG walking off the pitch as a sign of protest at the Parc des Princes. TRENDING | Watch - From Demba Ba's reaction to fourth official's explanation: How PSG vs Istanbul Basaksehir racism row unfurled With the match paused at 24 minutes, the remaining 76 minutes of the Group H match between PSG and Istanbul Basaksehir has been rescheduled for Wednesday evening with a different set of UEFA refereeing team appointed for the encounter. Webo vocally protested a decision on the touchline during the first half of the match. As the referee came over, footage appeared to show Coltescu identifying Webo by saying: 'The black one over there. Go and check who he is. The black one over there, it's not possible to act like that'. It is being reported that Coltescu said a Romanian word for black. Webo overheard the match official in an empty stadium and immediately accused Coltescu of racism and was shown a straight red card. ALSO READ: PSG, Basaksehir stage Champions League walk-out over official's alleged racism Former Chelsea forward Demba Ba, on the substitute bench for Istanbul Basaksehir, questioned Webo why he had used the discriminatory word to identify Webo. He said: 'You never say "this white guy", you say "this guy", so why when you're mentioning him... listen to me... why when you mention a black guy, why do you say "this black guy."' Players and staff of both Basaksehir and PSG were pretty vocal about the incident and left the pitch after around 10 minutes of discussion with the main referee Ovidiu Hategan. TV footage also showed PSG's French defender Presnel Kimpembe saying: 'Is he serious? We are heading in. We're heading in. That's it, we're heading in.' Basaksehir coach Okan Buruk was heard saying ‘you are racist’ to Coltescu. After a long wait, the match was called off on Tuesday and will resume from the same point on Wednesday. Istanbul Basaksehir took to Twitter: 'Our players have taken a decision NOT TO go back on the pitch after our Assistant Coach Pierre Webo has been exposed to racist behaviour by the 4th Official.' The incident has led to staunch criticism of racial acts in the world of football with former England international Rio Ferdinand saying “football is at the tipping point” and higher authorities should take some strong action if they want to put an end to discrimination.

PSG vs Istanbul Basaksehir: Romanian fourth official Sebastian Coltescu's Instagram hacked after racism row

India's Parthiv Patel, who was the youngest Test wicketkeeper when he made his debut against England in 2002, on Wednesday retired from all cricket.

Overshadowed for much of his career by Mahendra Singh Dhoni, Patel, who was 17 years and 153 days on his international debut, played his 25th and last Test for India in 2018.

"Today, I announce retirement from all forms of cricket and as I bring down curtains on this 18-year-old cricketing journey, I feel heavier with gratitude for many," the 35-year-old said in a statement.

He added that India's management had "showed generous amount of confidence and faith in a 17-year-old boy to play for India".

Patel made his debut under Sourav Ganguly, current president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India. He had a batting average of over 31, including six half-centuries, in his stop-start career.

The diminutive Patel also played 38 one-day internationals and two Twenty20 matches for the national team.

He had a prolific career in India's domestic championships, scoring more than 11,000 runs and appearing for Mumbai Indians, Chennai Super Kings and Royal Challengers Bangalore among six teams in the Indian Premier League.

India's Parthiv Patel, who was the youngest Test wicketkeeper when he made his debut against England in 2002, on Wednesday retired from all cricket. Overshadowed for much of his career by Mahendra Singh Dhoni, Patel, who was 17 years and 153 days on his international debut, played his 25th and last Test for India in 2018.

India's Parthiv Patel, who was the youngest Test wicketkeeper when he made his debut against England in 2002, on Wednesday retired from all cricket. Overshadowed for much of his career by Mahendra Singh Dhoni, Patel, who was 17 years and 153 days on his international debut, played his 25th and last Test for India in 2018. "Today, I announce retirement from all forms of cricket and as I bring down curtains on this 18-year-old cricketing journey, I feel heavier with gratitude for many," the 35-year-old said in a statement. He added that India's management had "showed generous amount of confidence and faith in a 17-year-old boy to play for India". Patel made his debut under Sourav Ganguly, current president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India. He had a batting average of over 31, including six half-centuries, in his stop-start career. The diminutive Patel also played 38 one-day internationals and two Twenty20 matches for the national team. He had a prolific career in India's domestic championships, scoring more than 11,000 runs and appearing for Mumbai Indians, Chennai Super Kings and Royal Challengers Bangalore among six teams in the Indian Premier League.

Indian wicketkeeper Parthiv Patel retires from all forms of cricket

In what comes as a massive blow to Australian cricket team, star opening batsman David Warner has been ruled out of the first Test against India, starting December 17 in Adelaide, but will try and return for the Boxing Day Test.

Warner suffered a strained adductor muscle that forced him to walk out of Australia’s second ODI against India in November following a stunning knock of 83.&nbsp;

"I feel I have made great progress in a short amount of time and it's best for me to stay here in Sydney to continue working on getting back to full fitness," the 34-year-old said in a statement.

"The injury feels a lot better, but I need to be able to satisfy in my own mind and to my team-mates that it is 100 percent ready for Test match conditions.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-left-fuming-as-umpires-deny-india-a-drs-opportunity-due-to-early-replay-348355" hreflang="en">Virat Kohli left fuming as umpires deny India a DRS opportunity due to 'early' replay</a>

"That includes running between the wickets and being agile in the field. Right now I feel I am short of being able to play at peak fitness and another 10 days will make a difference."

The pink-ball Test will commence in Adelaide on December 17, which will be the first encounter in the four-match Border-Gavaskar trophy.

While it is still not clear who will replace Warner in Adelaide but Cameron Green has made a strong statement by smashing a century for Australia A against a strong India A attack -- featuring Ravichandran Ashwin, Umesh Yadav and Mohammed Siraj.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/3rd-t20i-australia-take-consolation-win-as-india-clinch-series-2-1-348367" hreflang="en">3rd T20I: Australia take consolation win as India clinch series 2-1</a>

Whereas openers Will Pucovski and Joe Burns – who were in-line to pair up for the opening Test flopped in the warm-up game with the former leaving the field with concussion symptoms after a bouncer by Kartik Tyagi struck his helmet.

"Joe Burns, Cameron Green, Sean Abbott and Mitchell Swepson will derive great benefit from playing high-quality opposition against the pink ball in the final tour match," Australia selector Trevor Hohns said.

Coach Justin Langer expressed confidence Warner would be back for the second Test: "If there is one guy you know will go well above and beyond that's Dave," he said.&nbsp;

"He has done an incredible job to get to where he is today and we hope to have a fully fit David Warner at his absolute best in Melbourne."

In what comes as a massive blow to Australian cricket team, star opening batsman David Warner has been ruled out of the first Test against India, starting December 17 in Adelaide, but will try and return for the Boxing Day Test.

In what comes as a massive blow to Australian cricket team, star opening batsman David Warner has been ruled out of the first Test against India, starting December 17 in Adelaide, but will try and return for the Boxing Day Test. Warner suffered a strained adductor muscle that forced him to walk out of Australia’s second ODI against India in November following a stunning knock of 83. "I feel I have made great progress in a short amount of time and it's best for me to stay here in Sydney to continue working on getting back to full fitness," the 34-year-old said in a statement. "The injury feels a lot better, but I need to be able to satisfy in my own mind and to my team-mates that it is 100 percent ready for Test match conditions. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli left fuming as umpires deny India a DRS opportunity due to 'early' replay "That includes running between the wickets and being agile in the field. Right now I feel I am short of being able to play at peak fitness and another 10 days will make a difference." The pink-ball Test will commence in Adelaide on December 17, which will be the first encounter in the four-match Border-Gavaskar trophy. While it is still not clear who will replace Warner in Adelaide but Cameron Green has made a strong statement by smashing a century for Australia A against a strong India A attack -- featuring Ravichandran Ashwin, Umesh Yadav and Mohammed Siraj. ALSO READ: 3rd T20I: Australia take consolation win as India clinch series 2-1 Whereas openers Will Pucovski and Joe Burns – who were in-line to pair up for the opening Test flopped in the warm-up game with the former leaving the field with concussion symptoms after a bouncer by Kartik Tyagi struck his helmet. "Joe Burns, Cameron Green, Sean Abbott and Mitchell Swepson will derive great benefit from playing high-quality opposition against the pink ball in the final tour match," Australia selector Trevor Hohns said. Coach Justin Langer expressed confidence Warner would be back for the second Test: "If there is one guy you know will go well above and beyond that's Dave," he said. "He has done an incredible job to get to where he is today and we hope to have a fully fit David Warner at his absolute best in Melbourne."

David Warner ruled out of Day-Night Test vs India, likely to be fit for Boxing Day Test

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/uefa-champions-league">UEFA Champions League</a> witnessed an unprecedented incident as players from Paris Saint-Germain and Istanbul Basaksehir walked off the pitch amid allegations of racism by fourth officials on Tuesday.

The entire row erupted after Istanbul Basaksehir assistant coach Pierre Webo – a former Cameroon international – was shown a red card during a fierce face-off on the touchline with staff from the Turkish club appearing to accuse the officials of using a racist term.

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✊🏻✊🏿 NO TO RACISM | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Respect?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Respect</a> <a href="https://t.co/Ic1BzfANoi">pic.twitter.com/Ic1BzfANoi</a>
— İstanbul Başakşehir (@ibfk2014) <a href="https://twitter.com/ibfk2014/status/1336407284029730818?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The moment Istanbul Basaksehir's Demba Ba reports the racist abuse by the fourth official at Paris Saint-Germain<a href="https://t.co/RlLAmtQUUF">pic.twitter.com/RlLAmtQUUF</a>
— Rob Harris (@RobHarris) <a href="https://twitter.com/RobHarris/status/1336413648558972930?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/psg-basaksehir-stage-champions-league-walk-out-over-officials-alleged-racism-348492" hreflang="en">PSG, Basaksehir stage Champions League walk-out over official's alleged racism</a>

Television microphones picked up an agitated Webo continuously asking why the racist term was used to describe him. Star striker Demba Ba was also seen giving furious wordings to the referee.&nbsp;

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PSG vs Istanbul Basaksehir has been suspended following an alleged racist incident involving the 4th official towards Istanbul's assistant manager. <a href="https://t.co/mLIkZiPK7u">pic.twitter.com/mLIkZiPK7u</a>
— Champions League on CBS Sports (@UCLonCBSSports) <a href="https://twitter.com/UCLonCBSSports/status/1336409907570982916?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Even Paris Saint-Germain stars Kylian Mbappe and Neymar were seen having a chat with the match officials as the duo looked stunned by the usage of words by the fourth referee.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/man-utd-stumble-out-of-champions-league-with-loss-in-leipzig-348496" hreflang="en">Man Utd stumble out of Champions League with loss in Leipzig</a>

While many footballing stars across the world chipped in with their support on social media platforms, Turkish President Recent Tayyip Erdogan said he “strongly” condemned the incident. UEFA announced that it would open a ‘thorough investigation’ on the incident.

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Temsilcimiz Başakşehir’in teknik ekibinden Pierre Webo'ya karşı sarf edilen ırkçı sözleri şiddetle kınıyor, UEFA tarafından gereken adımların atılacağına inanıyorum. 
 
Sporda ve hayatın tüm alanlarında ırkçılığa ve ayrımcılığa kayıtsız şartsız karşıyız. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Notoracism?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Notoracism</a>
— Recep Tayyip Erdoğan (@RTErdogan) <a href="https://twitter.com/RTErdogan/status/1336421579438350338?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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This response from İstanbul Başakşehir is exactly how teams should handle racist incidents. 
 
Leave the pitch. Don’t stand for it. The fourth official accused has now been replaced by the VAR official in their game against PSG. <a href="https://t.co/Qzpm8qBFR4">pic.twitter.com/Qzpm8qBFR4</a>
— LDN (@LDNFootbalI) <a href="https://twitter.com/LDNFootbalI/status/1336413829153120256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

UEFA has been working strongly to kill racial discrimination from the sport and has strict sanctions against those found guilty of discrimination. “Say No To Racism” has been a go-to slogan in UEFA competitions for many years now.&nbsp;

While the fourth official was spotted agreeing that he used the racist term to describe Webo, there was someone, who was not spotted on the camera, saying there could have been a language issue as the fourth official was a Romanian.

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This is the 4th official attempting to explain what he said in the Paris St Germain match versus Istanbul Basaksehir <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PSGIBFK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PSGIBFK</a> <a href="https://t.co/NX6Geh17Gy">pic.twitter.com/NX6Geh17Gy</a>
— Brett Cullen (@iambrettcullen) <a href="https://twitter.com/iambrettcullen/status/1336417588574892034?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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However, such incidents are a complete disgrace to the sport loved by billions around the world. &nbsp; 
In a statement, UEFA confirmed the game would, "on an exceptional basis", restart from where it was stopped on Wednesday at 1755 GMT, "with a new team of match officials".

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LOUD &amp; CLEAR ✊🏾 <a href="https://t.co/0VQVplti4D">https://t.co/0VQVplti4D</a>
— Raheem Sterling (@sterling7) <a href="https://twitter.com/sterling7/status/1336424855181332480?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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✊🏻✊🏿 <a href="https://t.co/4G873kjKUk">pic.twitter.com/4G873kjKUk</a>
— Aymeric Laporte (@Laporte) <a href="https://twitter.com/Laporte/status/1336432042297466880?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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✊🏻✊🏼✊🏽✊🏾✊🏿
— Richarlison Andrade (@richarlison97) <a href="https://twitter.com/richarlison97/status/1336412392377487361?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

PSG, who advanced following United's loss, will claim top spot with a victory.

The UEFA Champions League witnessed an unprecedented incident as players from Paris Saint-Germain and Istanbul Basaksehir walked off the pitch amid allegations of racism by fourth officials on Tuesday.

The UEFA Champions League witnessed an unprecedented incident as players from Paris Saint-Germain and Istanbul Basaksehir walked off the pitch amid allegations of racism by fourth officials on Tuesday. The entire row erupted after Istanbul Basaksehir assistant coach Pierre Webo – a former Cameroon international – was shown a red card during a fierce face-off on the touchline with staff from the Turkish club appearing to accuse the officials of using a racist term. ✊🏻✊🏿 NO TO RACISM | #Respect pic.twitter.com/Ic1BzfANoi — İstanbul Başakşehir (@ibfk2014) December 8, 2020 × The moment Istanbul Basaksehir's Demba Ba reports the racist abuse by the fourth official at Paris Saint-Germainpic.twitter.com/RlLAmtQUUF — Rob Harris (@RobHarris) December 8, 2020 × ALSO READ: PSG, Basaksehir stage Champions League walk-out over official's alleged racism Television microphones picked up an agitated Webo continuously asking why the racist term was used to describe him. Star striker Demba Ba was also seen giving furious wordings to the referee. PSG vs Istanbul Basaksehir has been suspended following an alleged racist incident involving the 4th official towards Istanbul's assistant manager. pic.twitter.com/mLIkZiPK7u — Champions League on CBS Sports (@UCLonCBSSports) December 8, 2020 × Even Paris Saint-Germain stars Kylian Mbappe and Neymar were seen having a chat with the match officials as the duo looked stunned by the usage of words by the fourth referee. ALSO READ: Man Utd stumble out of Champions League with loss in Leipzig While many footballing stars across the world chipped in with their support on social media platforms, Turkish President Recent Tayyip Erdogan said he “strongly” condemned the incident. UEFA announced that it would open a ‘thorough investigation’ on the incident. Temsilcimiz Başakşehir’in teknik ekibinden Pierre Webo'ya karşı sarf edilen ırkçı sözleri şiddetle kınıyor, UEFA tarafından gereken adımların atılacağına inanıyorum. Sporda ve hayatın tüm alanlarında ırkçılığa ve ayrımcılığa kayıtsız şartsız karşıyız. #Notoracism — Recep Tayyip Erdoğan (@RTErdogan) December 8, 2020 × This response from İstanbul Başakşehir is exactly how teams should handle racist incidents. Leave the pitch. Don’t stand for it. The fourth official accused has now been replaced by the VAR official in their game against PSG. pic.twitter.com/Qzpm8qBFR4 — LDN (@LDNFootbalI) December 8, 2020 × UEFA has been working strongly to kill racial discrimination from the sport and has strict sanctions against those found guilty of discrimination. “Say No To Racism” has been a go-to slogan in UEFA competitions for many years now. While the fourth official was spotted agreeing that he used the racist term to describe Webo, there was someone, who was not spotted on the camera, saying there could have been a language issue as the fourth official was a Romanian. This is the 4th official attempting to explain what he said in the Paris St Germain match versus Istanbul Basaksehir #PSGIBFK pic.twitter.com/NX6Geh17Gy — Brett Cullen (@iambrettcullen) December 8, 2020 × However, such incidents are a complete disgrace to the sport loved by billions around the world. In a statement, UEFA confirmed the game would, "on an exceptional basis", restart from where it was stopped on Wednesday at 1755 GMT, "with a new team of match officials". LOUD & CLEAR ✊🏾 https://t.co/0VQVplti4D — Raheem Sterling (@sterling7) December 8, 2020 × ✊🏻✊🏿 pic.twitter.com/4G873kjKUk — Aymeric Laporte (@Laporte) December 8, 2020 × ✊🏻✊🏼✊🏽✊🏾✊🏿 — Richarlison Andrade (@richarlison97) December 8, 2020 × PSG, who advanced following United's loss, will claim top spot with a victory.

Watch - From Demba Ba's reaction to fourth official's explanation: How PSG vs Istanbul Basaksehir racism row unfurled

Life has come a full circle for Kevin Durant. The last time he played in the NBA was in Game 5 of the 2018-19 NBA Finals as a member of the Golden State Warriors. Fast forward 18 months and the 32-year old is back from the Achilles’ tendon injury and will face the Warriors on the opening night of the 2020-21 season wearing the Brooklyn Nets’ jersey.

The two-time NBA champion said he has tried to be the best version of himself while returning to much-awaited on-court action. “Every drill that I’ve done, I’ve been going as hard as I could,” said Durant. “I’ve been in the league for 14 years. Even if I didn’t have an Achilles’, I probably wouldn’t be 100 percent. So the wear and tear over time, I guess, but I feel solid.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/psg-basaksehir-stage-champions-league-walk-out-over-officials-alleged-racism-348492" hreflang="en">PSG, Basaksehir stage Champions League walk-out over official's alleged racism</a>

Achilles tendon injuries can be exhausting to come back from, but Durant didn’t let the long road back to recovery get to him. “It actually wasn’t that frustrating, to be honest. I enjoyed having a lot of ‘me time’ away from you all and the NBA life in general,” said Durant while speaking to reporters.

Before the injury stopped him in tracks, Durant was one of the most feared basketball players in the world winning two titles with the Warriors and the Finals MVP in both the championship runs. A few years before getting his championship rings, Durant had already established his credentials winning the League MVP in 2014 playing for Oklahoma City Thunder.

When asked if he was back to his MVP form, he shrugged off the question saying he was feeling good playing the sport and not thinking about the awards at the moment. But Durant admitted he would find it difficult to be judicious coming at the back of a long injury layoff. “I enjoy playing an if and when Coach tries to pull me out early unexpectedly, of course, I’m going to push back, but I know they have my best interest,” the Nets superstar said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ronaldo-scores-twice-as-juve-crush-messis-troubled-barcelona-348494" hreflang="en">Ronaldo scores twice as Juve crush Messi's troubled Barcelona</a>

Durant will form one of NBA’s blockbuster pairing with his friend Kyrie Irving that will look to dominate the Eastern Conference. “We both respect each other’s’ game, we know each other’s game inside out. We know what championship level basketball looks like,” he said.

But what if the duo became a trio with James Harden’s speculated move to Brooklyn. Durant wasn’t bothered. “Whatever happens, we have to be prepared for everything,” said Durant. When further probed on his role in getting the Houston Rockets cornerstone to his team, Durant said these are all made up stories. “I heard all the noise and James potentially wanted to come to the Nets. Nothing is set in stone till it is set in stone,” Durant concluded.

Life has come a full circle for Kevin Durant. The last time he played in the NBA was in Game 5 of the 2018-19 NBA Finals as a member of the Golden State Warriors.

Life has come a full circle for Kevin Durant. The last time he played in the NBA was in Game 5 of the 2018-19 NBA Finals as a member of the Golden State Warriors. Fast forward 18 months and the 32-year old is back from the Achilles’ tendon injury and will face the Warriors on the opening night of the 2020-21 season wearing the Brooklyn Nets’ jersey. The two-time NBA champion said he has tried to be the best version of himself while returning to much-awaited on-court action. “Every drill that I’ve done, I’ve been going as hard as I could,” said Durant. “I’ve been in the league for 14 years. Even if I didn’t have an Achilles’, I probably wouldn’t be 100 percent. So the wear and tear over time, I guess, but I feel solid.” ALSO READ: PSG, Basaksehir stage Champions League walk-out over official's alleged racism Achilles tendon injuries can be exhausting to come back from, but Durant didn’t let the long road back to recovery get to him. “It actually wasn’t that frustrating, to be honest. I enjoyed having a lot of ‘me time’ away from you all and the NBA life in general,” said Durant while speaking to reporters. Before the injury stopped him in tracks, Durant was one of the most feared basketball players in the world winning two titles with the Warriors and the Finals MVP in both the championship runs. A few years before getting his championship rings, Durant had already established his credentials winning the League MVP in 2014 playing for Oklahoma City Thunder. When asked if he was back to his MVP form, he shrugged off the question saying he was feeling good playing the sport and not thinking about the awards at the moment. But Durant admitted he would find it difficult to be judicious coming at the back of a long injury layoff. “I enjoy playing an if and when Coach tries to pull me out early unexpectedly, of course, I’m going to push back, but I know they have my best interest,” the Nets superstar said. ALSO READ: Ronaldo scores twice as Juve crush Messi's troubled Barcelona Durant will form one of NBA’s blockbuster pairing with his friend Kyrie Irving that will look to dominate the Eastern Conference. “We both respect each other’s’ game, we know each other’s game inside out. We know what championship level basketball looks like,” he said. But what if the duo became a trio with James Harden’s speculated move to Brooklyn. Durant wasn’t bothered. “Whatever happens, we have to be prepared for everything,” said Durant. When further probed on his role in getting the Houston Rockets cornerstone to his team, Durant said these are all made up stories. “I heard all the noise and James potentially wanted to come to the Nets. Nothing is set in stone till it is set in stone,” Durant concluded.

Life comes a full circle for Kevin Durant

"I've been through a lot, obviously starting out with my mom,” said Minnesota Timberwolves star Karl-Anthony Towns as he enters his sixth NBA season with a heavy heart. Towns’ mother, Jacqueline Towns, passed away in April due to COVID-19 related complications. On Friday, the 25-year-old revealed that six other family members have died due to COVID-19.

"Last night I got a call that I lost my uncle," Towns said. "I feel like I've been hardened a little bit by life and humbled."

Towns said his main priority is to keep his family safe. His father, Karl-Anthony Towns Sr., also tested positive for the coronavirus but recovered.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-washington-wizards-russell-westbrook-clears-the-air-talks-legacy-348098" hreflang="en">NBA: Washington Wizards' Russell Westbrook clears the air, talks legacy</a>

"I've seen a lot of coffins in the last seven months, eight months," Towns said. "But I have a lot of people who have -- in my family and my mom's family -- who have gotten Covid. I'm the one looking for answers still, trying to find how to keep them healthy. It's just a lot of responsibility on me to keep my family well informed and to make all the moves necessary to keep them alive."

However, Towns said basketball won’t be anything like a therapy for him as he plays to put a smile on the faces of his family members while adding it’s going to be a hard season for him to play after seven deaths in his family due to the virus.

"I play this game more because I just loved watching my family members seeing me play a game I was very successful and good at. It always brought me a smile when I saw my mom at the baseline and in the stands and stuff and having a good time watching me play," Towns said. "So it's going to be hard to play. It's going to be difficult to say this is therapy. I don't think this will ever be therapy for me again. But it gives me a chance to relive good memories I had."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/floyd-mayweather-to-take-on-youtuber-logan-paul-in-exhibition-bout-348104" hreflang="en">Floyd Mayweather to take on YouTuber Logan Paul in exhibition bout</a>

On March 15, Towns announced that he would donate $100,000 to the Mayo Clinic with hope that this fight with virus can be won quickly by increasing testing capabilities. He wrote on Instagram: "My hope is that we can fight this virus quicker and more efficiently by increasing the testing capabilities and availability and Mayo Clinic's overall Covid-19 response."

Minnesota Timberwolves will open the 2020-21 NBA season against the Detroit Pistons on December 23 at Target Center in Minneapolis. 
&nbsp;

"I've been through a lot, obviously starting out with my mom,” said Minnesota Timberwolves star Karl-Anthony Towns as he enters his sixth NBA season with a heavy heart.

"I've been through a lot, obviously starting out with my mom,” said Minnesota Timberwolves star Karl-Anthony Towns as he enters his sixth NBA season with a heavy heart. Towns’ mother, Jacqueline Towns, passed away in April due to COVID-19 related complications. On Friday, the 25-year-old revealed that six other family members have died due to COVID-19. "Last night I got a call that I lost my uncle," Towns said. "I feel like I've been hardened a little bit by life and humbled." Towns said his main priority is to keep his family safe. His father, Karl-Anthony Towns Sr., also tested positive for the coronavirus but recovered. ALSO READ: NBA: Washington Wizards' Russell Westbrook clears the air, talks legacy "I've seen a lot of coffins in the last seven months, eight months," Towns said. "But I have a lot of people who have -- in my family and my mom's family -- who have gotten Covid. I'm the one looking for answers still, trying to find how to keep them healthy. It's just a lot of responsibility on me to keep my family well informed and to make all the moves necessary to keep them alive." However, Towns said basketball won’t be anything like a therapy for him as he plays to put a smile on the faces of his family members while adding it’s going to be a hard season for him to play after seven deaths in his family due to the virus. "I play this game more because I just loved watching my family members seeing me play a game I was very successful and good at. It always brought me a smile when I saw my mom at the baseline and in the stands and stuff and having a good time watching me play," Towns said. "So it's going to be hard to play. It's going to be difficult to say this is therapy. I don't think this will ever be therapy for me again. But it gives me a chance to relive good memories I had." ALSO READ: Floyd Mayweather to take on YouTuber Logan Paul in exhibition bout On March 15, Towns announced that he would donate $100,000 to the Mayo Clinic with hope that this fight with virus can be won quickly by increasing testing capabilities. He wrote on Instagram: "My hope is that we can fight this virus quicker and more efficiently by increasing the testing capabilities and availability and Mayo Clinic's overall Covid-19 response." Minnesota Timberwolves will open the 2020-21 NBA season against the Detroit Pistons on December 23 at Target Center in Minneapolis.

'I've seen a lot of coffins': NBA star Karl-Anthony Towns says he lost 7 family members to COVID-19

Danny Ings returned from injury to score a controversial winner from the penalty spot as Southampton came from behind to beat Brighton 2-1 on Monday and climb to fifth in the Premier League.

Brighton took the lead from the spot, with Pascal Gross sending goalkeeper Alex McCarthy the wrong way after James Ward-Prowse handled the ball in the area.

Ralph Hasenhuttl's men found an equaliser just before half-time, when Jan Vestergaard produced a towering header from a Ward-Prowse corner.

Then, with nine minutes remaining, substitute Ings fired home after Southampton were awarded a spot-kick, with Brighton players claiming the foul took place outside the area.

Hasenhuttl was delighted to see his team grind out a win while not at their best.

"I didn't see the first penalty," he said. "For the second one, that is why we have VAR, especially when it is about decisions if it is in or not then you need this.&nbsp;

"I think it was clear inside the box. It is not nice to get a penalty against you but the decision from what I have seen was relatively clear."

Brighton started the match brightly in front of 2,000 supporters -- back in the stadium for the first time in nine months after the easing of coronavirus restrictions.

They took the lead in the 26th minute when referee David Coote pointed to the spot after a Danny Welbeck cross hit the raised arms of Ward-Prowse and Gross converted.

Brighton looked to get forward at every opportunity while Southampton struggled to get going but Saints were level just before the break.&nbsp;

Ward-Prowse continued his impressive record from set-pieces, crossing the ball from a corner for Vestergaard to head past powerfully past Mat Ryan.

Ings, who had been out of action for five weeks, was brought on at the start of the second half.

With 13 minutes to go, Kyle Walker-Peters was brought down by Solly March. The referee initially awarded a free-kick before a lengthy VAR intervention changed the decision to a penalty.

Ings made no mistake and his side held on for the victory, which lifts Southampton to 20 points, one behind fourth-placed Leicester. Brighton stay 16th on 10 points.

Disappointed Brighton boss Graham Potter said the first challenge appeared to take place outside the box.&nbsp;

"I don't know if there was a second but that's what the referee seemed to think," he told Sky Sports.

"I thought it was quite an even game so I'm disappointed with the result. If it's factual and the offence is inside and they've proved that's the case, then that's what it's there for and it's what you have to accept."

Danny Ings returned from injury to score a controversial winner from the penalty spot as Southampton came from behind to beat Brighton 2-1 on Monday and climb to fifth in the Premier League.

Danny Ings returned from injury to score a controversial winner from the penalty spot as Southampton came from behind to beat Brighton 2-1 on Monday and climb to fifth in the Premier League. Brighton took the lead from the spot, with Pascal Gross sending goalkeeper Alex McCarthy the wrong way after James Ward-Prowse handled the ball in the area. Ralph Hasenhuttl's men found an equaliser just before half-time, when Jan Vestergaard produced a towering header from a Ward-Prowse corner. Then, with nine minutes remaining, substitute Ings fired home after Southampton were awarded a spot-kick, with Brighton players claiming the foul took place outside the area. Hasenhuttl was delighted to see his team grind out a win while not at their best. "I didn't see the first penalty," he said. "For the second one, that is why we have VAR, especially when it is about decisions if it is in or not then you need this. "I think it was clear inside the box. It is not nice to get a penalty against you but the decision from what I have seen was relatively clear." Brighton started the match brightly in front of 2,000 supporters -- back in the stadium for the first time in nine months after the easing of coronavirus restrictions. They took the lead in the 26th minute when referee David Coote pointed to the spot after a Danny Welbeck cross hit the raised arms of Ward-Prowse and Gross converted. Brighton looked to get forward at every opportunity while Southampton struggled to get going but Saints were level just before the break. Ward-Prowse continued his impressive record from set-pieces, crossing the ball from a corner for Vestergaard to head past powerfully past Mat Ryan. Ings, who had been out of action for five weeks, was brought on at the start of the second half. With 13 minutes to go, Kyle Walker-Peters was brought down by Solly March. The referee initially awarded a free-kick before a lengthy VAR intervention changed the decision to a penalty. Ings made no mistake and his side held on for the victory, which lifts Southampton to 20 points, one behind fourth-placed Leicester. Brighton stay 16th on 10 points. Disappointed Brighton boss Graham Potter said the first challenge appeared to take place outside the box. "I don't know if there was a second but that's what the referee seemed to think," he told Sky Sports. "I thought it was quite an even game so I'm disappointed with the result. If it's factual and the offence is inside and they've proved that's the case, then that's what it's there for and it's what you have to accept."

Danny Ings scores controversial VAR penalty as Southampton climb to fifth in Premier League

Breakdancing was one of four new sports along with skateboarding, surfing and sport climbing to get the Olympic green light on Monday for inclusion at the 2024 Paris Games.

The four sports were included as the International Olympic Committee (IOC) executive board met to confirm the Paris 2024 programme.

Skateboarding, sport climbing and surfing have already been added to the programme for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, which will take place in 2021 after being postponed by a year because of the coronavirus pandemic.

The introduction of breaking was "one of the results of the Olympic Agenda 2020", Bach said. "We had a clear priority to introduce sports (that are) particularly popular among the younger generation and taking into consideration the urbanisation of sport."

Breakdancing, which grew up alongside hip hop in the South Bronx of New York in the 1970s and is officially known in sport terms as "breaking", appeared at the 2018 Youth Olympics in Buenos Aires, in the form of head-to-head "battles".

Russia's Sergei Chernyshev, competing under the nickname Bumblebee, won the first breakdancing gold medal for boys in that event, while Japan's Ramu Kawai won the girls' title.

"Today is a historic occasion not only for b-boys and b-girls but for all dancers around the world," said Shawn Tay, president of the World Dance Sport Federation (WDSF).

"The WDSF could not be prouder to have breaking included at Paris 2024... It was a true team effort to get to this moment and we will redouble our efforts in the lead-up to the Olympic Games to make sure the breaking competition at Paris 2024 will be unforgettable."

<h2>- Paris podiums down to 329 -</h2>

Federations of sports that already have Olympic status were left disappointed in their bid to increase events within their sports as IOC president Thomas Bach said that none of the proposed 41 events would be included in Paris.

While some sports substituted in some events within their existing event numbers, Bach said medal events had actually gone down from 339 to 329.

He said the athletes' quota for Paris had been fixed at 10,500, including those participating in the four new sports.

That represents a decrease of 600 from Tokyo Games, while gender equality would be attained for the first time in Olympic history in Paris.

The question of gender equality led to the demise of the men's 50km race walk, which first appeared at the 1932 Olympics.&nbsp;

IOC sports director Kit McConnell said the event would be replaced by a "mixed gender event".

There was a decision to "reach gender equality by removing the men's 50km race walk", rather than introducing a women's version, McConnell said, adding that the men and women's 20km race walks would remain.

The replacement event will not, however, be a mixed cross-country, which World Athletics had been pushing hard for.

"The event had to fit into an existing Olympic venue," McConnell said, explaining that a potential re-fit of the equestrian or mountain-bike venues to accommodate a cross-country was shown to be "too expensive and complex".

Breakdancing was one of four new sports along with skateboarding, surfing and sport climbing to get the Olympic green light on Monday for inclusion at the 2024 Paris Games.

Breakdancing was one of four new sports along with skateboarding, surfing and sport climbing to get the Olympic green light on Monday for inclusion at the 2024 Paris Games. The four sports were included as the International Olympic Committee (IOC) executive board met to confirm the Paris 2024 programme. Skateboarding, sport climbing and surfing have already been added to the programme for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, which will take place in 2021 after being postponed by a year because of the coronavirus pandemic. The introduction of breaking was "one of the results of the Olympic Agenda 2020", Bach said. "We had a clear priority to introduce sports (that are) particularly popular among the younger generation and taking into consideration the urbanisation of sport." Breakdancing, which grew up alongside hip hop in the South Bronx of New York in the 1970s and is officially known in sport terms as "breaking", appeared at the 2018 Youth Olympics in Buenos Aires, in the form of head-to-head "battles". Russia's Sergei Chernyshev, competing under the nickname Bumblebee, won the first breakdancing gold medal for boys in that event, while Japan's Ramu Kawai won the girls' title. "Today is a historic occasion not only for b-boys and b-girls but for all dancers around the world," said Shawn Tay, president of the World Dance Sport Federation (WDSF). "The WDSF could not be prouder to have breaking included at Paris 2024... It was a true team effort to get to this moment and we will redouble our efforts in the lead-up to the Olympic Games to make sure the breaking competition at Paris 2024 will be unforgettable." - Paris podiums down to 329 - Federations of sports that already have Olympic status were left disappointed in their bid to increase events within their sports as IOC president Thomas Bach said that none of the proposed 41 events would be included in Paris. While some sports substituted in some events within their existing event numbers, Bach said medal events had actually gone down from 339 to 329. He said the athletes' quota for Paris had been fixed at 10,500, including those participating in the four new sports. That represents a decrease of 600 from Tokyo Games, while gender equality would be attained for the first time in Olympic history in Paris. The question of gender equality led to the demise of the men's 50km race walk, which first appeared at the 1932 Olympics. IOC sports director Kit McConnell said the event would be replaced by a "mixed gender event". There was a decision to "reach gender equality by removing the men's 50km race walk", rather than introducing a women's version, McConnell said, adding that the men and women's 20km race walks would remain. The replacement event will not, however, be a mixed cross-country, which World Athletics had been pushing hard for. "The event had to fit into an existing Olympic venue," McConnell said, explaining that a potential re-fit of the equestrian or mountain-bike venues to accommodate a cross-country was shown to be "too expensive and complex".

Breakdancing gets Olympic green light for Paris 2024

The Football Association announced on Monday that it is investigating following the booing of players taking a knee at two English Football League games at the weekend.

A number of fans at the match in the second-tier Championship between Millwall and Derby and at Colchester's League Two home clash with Grimsby booed the players' anti-racism gesture before kick-off.

"The FA can confirm that investigations are under way into crowd-related incidents at both The Den and JobServe Community Stadium on Saturday 5 December 2020," English football's governing body said in a statement.

The booing from Millwall fans led interim Derby boss Wayne Rooney to condemn their "disgraceful and mindless behaviour".

And Colchester owner Robbie Cowling, whose side play in the fourth tier, has told supporters who want to boo players taking a knee they are not welcome at the club.

"Those taking the knee, and supporting the taking of the knee, not only show their willingness to support the drive to eradicate racial oppression but force it to be a talking point even when it's uncomfortable," he said.

The Professional Footballers' Association described the booing as "a sad indictment of the lack of understanding and empathy for the players' fight against racism and discrimination".

It urged London-based Millwall to "act swiftly to identify the section of the crowd who booed the players".

Players from Millwall and Queens Park Rangers will stand arm-in-arm with each other in a show of solidarity for football’s fight against discrimination ahead of kick-off at The Den on Tuesday

The two teams will hold a banner to show their collective commitment towards ongoing efforts to rid the game of racism.

"Millwall believe that this gesture, which the club hopes to repeat with other visiting teams in the coming weeks and months, will help to unify people throughout society in the battle to root out all forms of discrimination," the club said in a statement.

The Football Association announced on Monday that it is investigating following the booing of players taking a knee at two English Football League games at the weekend.

The Football Association announced on Monday that it is investigating following the booing of players taking a knee at two English Football League games at the weekend. A number of fans at the match in the second-tier Championship between Millwall and Derby and at Colchester's League Two home clash with Grimsby booed the players' anti-racism gesture before kick-off. "The FA can confirm that investigations are under way into crowd-related incidents at both The Den and JobServe Community Stadium on Saturday 5 December 2020," English football's governing body said in a statement. The booing from Millwall fans led interim Derby boss Wayne Rooney to condemn their "disgraceful and mindless behaviour". And Colchester owner Robbie Cowling, whose side play in the fourth tier, has told supporters who want to boo players taking a knee they are not welcome at the club. "Those taking the knee, and supporting the taking of the knee, not only show their willingness to support the drive to eradicate racial oppression but force it to be a talking point even when it's uncomfortable," he said. The Professional Footballers' Association described the booing as "a sad indictment of the lack of understanding and empathy for the players' fight against racism and discrimination". It urged London-based Millwall to "act swiftly to identify the section of the crowd who booed the players". Players from Millwall and Queens Park Rangers will stand arm-in-arm with each other in a show of solidarity for football’s fight against discrimination ahead of kick-off at The Den on Tuesday The two teams will hold a banner to show their collective commitment towards ongoing efforts to rid the game of racism. "Millwall believe that this gesture, which the club hopes to repeat with other visiting teams in the coming weeks and months, will help to unify people throughout society in the battle to root out all forms of discrimination," the club said in a statement.

English FA probes booing of players taking a knee

Real Madrid value success in the Champions League above all else, but the 13-time champions head into Wednesday's game against Borussia Moenchengladbach with their qualification hopes hanging by a thread.

Should they suffer a humiliating group stage exit, ending their remarkable run as the only team to ever avoid elimination at this phase, coach Zinedine Zidane’s future will be at risk.

A win for either side in the Spanish capital will guarantee them passage through to the last 16 from Group B.&nbsp;

If Madrid draw and Shakhtar win or draw with Inter Milan in the other group match, the Spanish giants will be out.

Reports in the Spanish capital have linked Madrid with former Tottenham coach Mauricio Pochettino, currently without a club, should they part ways with Zidane, while Real Madrid Castilla coach Raul Gonzalez, a prolific striker for the club in the past, has been touted as a 'plan B’.

The Frenchman’s predecessor Santiago Solari was sacked after the humiliating last-16 exit against Ajax in the Champions League in 2019, paving the way for him to return just 10 months after his sudden departure.

Last season’s elimination at the same phase by Manchester City was mitigated by the team’s strong domestic performance, as they ground their way to the Spanish title, but another early failure in Europe may prove to be the final straw for trigger-happy president Florentino Perez.

"Zizou is a magnificent coach, a good friend and will do everything possible to have Madrid in the best position possible,” said former Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas, defending the coach against the mounting speculation over his future.&nbsp;

"You cannot live in the past, but he has earned the right to lead Madrid."

<h2>- Ramos returns -</h2>

However, despite his success during two stints in charge, winning three Champions League trophies, two La Liga titles and two Club World Cups among other silverware, and his fine history as a player, a defeat could make Zidane Madrid’s eighth managerial casualty in 10 years.&nbsp;

He is at least boosted by the return of captain Sergio Ramos and right back Dani Carvajal. The Spanish duo are important parts of Madrid’s defence.

Ramos in particular is essential, with Madrid having lost eight of their last 10 European games in which the 35-year-old has not played, including the Ajax and Manchester City eliminations.

Zidane got a boost after a narrow 1-0 victory over Sevilla on Saturday, Real's first Liga win since October.

"The last few days have been very tough but this team has a lot of character and loves challenges,” Zidane said.

"Today's win is very important for what is coming next. We know when we don’t play well we will be criticised but we have to focus on the positives and keep trying to find consistency."

Madrid almost fell to defeat in Germany in October but last-gasp goals from Karim Benzema and Casemiro helped them earn a 2-2 draw after Marcus Thuram’s double put Gladbach ahead.

A pair of wins against Antonio Conte’s underwhelming Inter Milan got Madrid back on track but a dismal 2-0 away defeat by Shakhtar Donetsk at the start of December left Zidane desperately needing a victory this week.

Madrid then host league leaders Atletico Madrid in a derby clash on Saturday, another crucial match in a week which could define the Spanish champions' season, and their coach's future.

After the Shakhtar defeat Zidane insisted he had no intention of resigning, but if the team stumble against Marco Rose’s Gladbach, that decision may be taken out of his hands.

Real Madrid value success in the Champions League above all else, but the 13-time champions head into Wednesday's game against Borussia Moenchengladbach with their qualification hopes hanging by a thread.

Real Madrid value success in the Champions League above all else, but the 13-time champions head into Wednesday's game against Borussia Moenchengladbach with their qualification hopes hanging by a thread. Should they suffer a humiliating group stage exit, ending their remarkable run as the only team to ever avoid elimination at this phase, coach Zinedine Zidane’s future will be at risk. A win for either side in the Spanish capital will guarantee them passage through to the last 16 from Group B. If Madrid draw and Shakhtar win or draw with Inter Milan in the other group match, the Spanish giants will be out. Reports in the Spanish capital have linked Madrid with former Tottenham coach Mauricio Pochettino, currently without a club, should they part ways with Zidane, while Real Madrid Castilla coach Raul Gonzalez, a prolific striker for the club in the past, has been touted as a 'plan B’. The Frenchman’s predecessor Santiago Solari was sacked after the humiliating last-16 exit against Ajax in the Champions League in 2019, paving the way for him to return just 10 months after his sudden departure. Last season’s elimination at the same phase by Manchester City was mitigated by the team’s strong domestic performance, as they ground their way to the Spanish title, but another early failure in Europe may prove to be the final straw for trigger-happy president Florentino Perez. "Zizou is a magnificent coach, a good friend and will do everything possible to have Madrid in the best position possible,” said former Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas, defending the coach against the mounting speculation over his future. "You cannot live in the past, but he has earned the right to lead Madrid." - Ramos returns - However, despite his success during two stints in charge, winning three Champions League trophies, two La Liga titles and two Club World Cups among other silverware, and his fine history as a player, a defeat could make Zidane Madrid’s eighth managerial casualty in 10 years. He is at least boosted by the return of captain Sergio Ramos and right back Dani Carvajal. The Spanish duo are important parts of Madrid’s defence. Ramos in particular is essential, with Madrid having lost eight of their last 10 European games in which the 35-year-old has not played, including the Ajax and Manchester City eliminations. Zidane got a boost after a narrow 1-0 victory over Sevilla on Saturday, Real's first Liga win since October. "The last few days have been very tough but this team has a lot of character and loves challenges,” Zidane said. "Today's win is very important for what is coming next. We know when we don’t play well we will be criticised but we have to focus on the positives and keep trying to find consistency." Madrid almost fell to defeat in Germany in October but last-gasp goals from Karim Benzema and Casemiro helped them earn a 2-2 draw after Marcus Thuram’s double put Gladbach ahead. A pair of wins against Antonio Conte’s underwhelming Inter Milan got Madrid back on track but a dismal 2-0 away defeat by Shakhtar Donetsk at the start of December left Zidane desperately needing a victory this week. Madrid then host league leaders Atletico Madrid in a derby clash on Saturday, another crucial match in a week which could define the Spanish champions' season, and their coach's future. After the Shakhtar defeat Zidane insisted he had no intention of resigning, but if the team stumble against Marco Rose’s Gladbach, that decision may be taken out of his hands.

Real Madrid and Zidane brace for crucial European night

Barcelona are set to host Juventus at the Camp Nou as action in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/uefa-champions-league">UEFA Champions League 2020-21</a> group stage continues. Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo will face each other for the first time since 2018 when the latter left Real Madrid to make a stunning move to Juventus. Since then, the footballing world has been dreaming to see the two legends take the pitch again together.&nbsp;

Talking about Group G, Barcelona and Juventus both have qualified to the knockout stage with 15 and 12 points respectively with the former topping the group given their first-leg 2-0 win over Juventus – a match which Ronaldo missed after testing positive for the coronavirus.&nbsp;

Despite it being a dead rubber, the eyes of the entire footballing world will be locked on Ronaldo and Messi for the 90 minutes as the iconic duo take the pitch again, resuming a rivalry of more than a decade.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-to-face-cristiano-ronaldo-as-iconic-rivalry-resumes-in-champions-league-348376" hreflang="en">Lionel Messi to face Cristiano Ronaldo as iconic rivalry resumes in Champions League</a>

<h2>When will Barcelona vs Juventus, UEFA Champions League (UCL) begin?</h2>

The Barcelona vs Juventus, UEFA Champions League (UCL) will begin at 1:30 AM IST on December 9.

<h2>Where will Barcelona vs Juventus, UEFA Champions League (UCL) be played?</h2>

The Barcelona vs Juventus, UEFA Champions League (UCL) match will be held at the Camp Nou.

<h2>Which channel will telecast Barcelona vs Juventus, UEFA Champions League (UCL)?</h2>

The Barcelona vs Juventus, UEFA Champions League (UCL) will have a live telecast on Sony Ten 2 and Sony Ten HD.

<h2>How to watch the live streaming of Barcelona vs Juventus, UEFA Champions League (UCL)?</h2>

The live streaming of Barcelona vs Juventus, UEFA Champions League (UCL) will be available on Sony’s streaming platform. &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Barcelona are set to host Juventus at the Camp Nou as action in UEFA Champions League 2020-21 group stage continues. Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo will face each other for the first time since 2018 when the latter left Real Madrid to make a stunning move to Juventus.

Barcelona are set to host Juventus at the Camp Nou as action in UEFA Champions League 2020-21 group stage continues. Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo will face each other for the first time since 2018 when the latter left Real Madrid to make a stunning move to Juventus. Since then, the footballing world has been dreaming to see the two legends take the pitch again together. Talking about Group G, Barcelona and Juventus both have qualified to the knockout stage with 15 and 12 points respectively with the former topping the group given their first-leg 2-0 win over Juventus – a match which Ronaldo missed after testing positive for the coronavirus. Despite it being a dead rubber, the eyes of the entire footballing world will be locked on Ronaldo and Messi for the 90 minutes as the iconic duo take the pitch again, resuming a rivalry of more than a decade. ALSO READ: Lionel Messi to face Cristiano Ronaldo as iconic rivalry resumes in Champions League When will Barcelona vs Juventus, UEFA Champions League (UCL) begin? The Barcelona vs Juventus, UEFA Champions League (UCL) will begin at 1:30 AM IST on December 9. Where will Barcelona vs Juventus, UEFA Champions League (UCL) be played? The Barcelona vs Juventus, UEFA Champions League (UCL) match will be held at the Camp Nou. Which channel will telecast Barcelona vs Juventus, UEFA Champions League (UCL)? The Barcelona vs Juventus, UEFA Champions League (UCL) will have a live telecast on Sony Ten 2 and Sony Ten HD. How to watch the live streaming of Barcelona vs Juventus, UEFA Champions League (UCL)? The live streaming of Barcelona vs Juventus, UEFA Champions League (UCL) will be available on Sony’s streaming platform.

Barcelona vs Juventus, Champions League Live Streaming: When and where to watch BAR vs JUV match?

Pakistan's cricketers complained Monday of being affected "mentally and physically" by New Zealand's strict Covid-19 protocols, which have kept the players holed up in their quarantine hotel for nearly two weeks.&nbsp;

Coach Misbah-ul-Haq said the team was looking forward to exiting managed isolation, with New Zealand Cricket saying the latest virus tests had all come back negative and they should be allowed out on Tuesday.

Since the 50-plus squad of players and officials arrived last month, 10 have tested positive for the coronavirus, forcing New Zealand health authorities to withdraw permission for the team to train in isolation.

Early in their stay, several team members were caught mingling together at their four-star quarantine hotel in Christchurch, in breach of the managed isolation rules.&nbsp;

"Top professional athletes require a certain environment to prepare so that they can perform at the minimum expected levels every time they represent their countries," Misbah said in a statement.&nbsp;

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He said Pakistan "respect and understand" the health and safety regulations, but "there is no denying the fact that the implementation of certain regulations has affected our athletes, both mentally and physically prior to an international series".&nbsp;

All overseas arrivals to New Zealand must spend two weeks in quarantine, with sports teams that return negative tests after three days granted permission to train together in isolation.&nbsp;

On Friday, 10 days after the Pakistan team arrived, New Zealand health officials said "ongoing concerns" about the risk of further infections meant their training ban could not be lifted.

"I want to compliment my players and the management team for their patience, sacrifices and the hardships they have endured to ensure they not only lead the safe resumption of international cricket during the Covid-19 pandemic... but also try to give their best every time they step on the field," Misbah said.&nbsp;

New Zealand Cricket said the negative tests meant the touring party would be allowed to leave isolation on Tuesday, pending health department approval, to prepare for their first Twenty20 match against the Black Caps on December 18.

The New Zealand health ministry refused to confirm the results of the team's latest tests.

 
cf/ns/arb/th

 
© Agence France-Presse

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Pakistan's cricketers complained Monday of being affected "mentally and physically" by New Zealand's strict Covid-19 protocols, which have kept the players holed up in their quarantine hotel for nearly two weeks.

Pakistan's cricketers complained Monday of being affected "mentally and physically" by New Zealand's strict Covid-19 protocols, which have kept the players holed up in their quarantine hotel for nearly two weeks. Coach Misbah-ul-Haq said the team was looking forward to exiting managed isolation, with New Zealand Cricket saying the latest virus tests had all come back negative and they should be allowed out on Tuesday. Since the 50-plus squad of players and officials arrived last month, 10 have tested positive for the coronavirus, forcing New Zealand health authorities to withdraw permission for the team to train in isolation. Early in their stay, several team members were caught mingling together at their four-star quarantine hotel in Christchurch, in breach of the managed isolation rules. "Top professional athletes require a certain environment to prepare so that they can perform at the minimum expected levels every time they represent their countries," Misbah said in a statement. × He said Pakistan "respect and understand" the health and safety regulations, but "there is no denying the fact that the implementation of certain regulations has affected our athletes, both mentally and physically prior to an international series". All overseas arrivals to New Zealand must spend two weeks in quarantine, with sports teams that return negative tests after three days granted permission to train together in isolation. On Friday, 10 days after the Pakistan team arrived, New Zealand health officials said "ongoing concerns" about the risk of further infections meant their training ban could not be lifted. "I want to compliment my players and the management team for their patience, sacrifices and the hardships they have endured to ensure they not only lead the safe resumption of international cricket during the Covid-19 pandemic... but also try to give their best every time they step on the field," Misbah said. New Zealand Cricket said the negative tests meant the touring party would be allowed to leave isolation on Tuesday, pending health department approval, to prepare for their first Twenty20 match against the Black Caps on December 18. The New Zealand health ministry refused to confirm the results of the team's latest tests. cf/ns/arb/th © Agence France-Presse

Pakistan cricketers hit 'mentally, physically' by NZ Covid isolation

The father of England all-rounder Ben Stokes, a former rugby league player and coach, Ged Stokes has died after a battle with brain cancer, his former rugby club Workington Town announced on Tuesday.

Ged Stokes, 65, was diagnosed with illness in January and spent five weeks in hospital seriously ill in Johannesburg earlier this year. &nbsp;

Stokes, 65, had returned home to Christchurch in New Zealand with his wife Deborah, where he was living at the time of his death.&nbsp;

"It is with great sadness that we learn our former player and coach Ged Stokes has passed away,” his former rugby club Workington Town said in a statement.

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Sad news. RIP Ged. <a href="https://t.co/KmEDFuLRUd">pic.twitter.com/KmEDFuLRUd</a>
— Workington Town is wearen a fyas cuvveren (@WorkingtonTown) <a href="https://twitter.com/WorkingtonTown/status/1336280530506182656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-left-fuming-as-umpires-deny-india-a-drs-opportunity-due-to-early-replay-348355" hreflang="en">Virat Kohli left fuming as umpires deny India a DRS opportunity due to 'early' replay</a>

"Ged is written into the rich fabric of Town history and will be greatly missed.

"Our thoughts are with Deb, Ben and James.

"Ged still has many, many friends here in West Cumbria and we send our thoughts to them too."

Ged coached Workington Town’s fellow side Whitehaven and also took charge of Serbia in the international circuit.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-cricketers-to-leave-new-zealand-quarantine-cleared-to-train-for-1st-t20i-348304" hreflang="en">Pakistan cricketers to leave New Zealand quarantine, cleared to train for 1st T20I</a>

Earlier, Ben Stokes had left England’s bio-secure bubble during their series against Pakistan to spend time with his father and family. He also missed the first half of Indian Premier League in the UAE before joining his franchise Rajasthan Royals for the last phase of the tournament.&nbsp;

Prior to jetting off for India, the all-rounder wrote in his Mirror column: "Saying goodbye to my dad, my mum and my brother in Christchurch was tough. It has been a difficult time for us as a family, but we've pulled together and supported each other as best we can.

"And I was able to get on the plane with my parents' love and blessing after we reached the decision, for me to get back playing, as a family with no external influences."

The father of England all-rounder Ben Stokes, a former rugby league player and coach, Ged Stokes has died after a battle with brain cancer, his former rugby club Workington Town announced on Tuesday.

The father of England all-rounder Ben Stokes, a former rugby league player and coach, Ged Stokes has died after a battle with brain cancer, his former rugby club Workington Town announced on Tuesday. Ged Stokes, 65, was diagnosed with illness in January and spent five weeks in hospital seriously ill in Johannesburg earlier this year. Stokes, 65, had returned home to Christchurch in New Zealand with his wife Deborah, where he was living at the time of his death. "It is with great sadness that we learn our former player and coach Ged Stokes has passed away,” his former rugby club Workington Town said in a statement. Sad news. RIP Ged. pic.twitter.com/KmEDFuLRUd — Workington Town is wearen a fyas cuvveren (@WorkingtonTown) December 8, 2020 × ALSO READ: Virat Kohli left fuming as umpires deny India a DRS opportunity due to 'early' replay "Ged is written into the rich fabric of Town history and will be greatly missed. "Our thoughts are with Deb, Ben and James. "Ged still has many, many friends here in West Cumbria and we send our thoughts to them too." Ged coached Workington Town’s fellow side Whitehaven and also took charge of Serbia in the international circuit. ALSO READ: Pakistan cricketers to leave New Zealand quarantine, cleared to train for 1st T20I Earlier, Ben Stokes had left England’s bio-secure bubble during their series against Pakistan to spend time with his father and family. He also missed the first half of Indian Premier League in the UAE before joining his franchise Rajasthan Royals for the last phase of the tournament. Prior to jetting off for India, the all-rounder wrote in his Mirror column: "Saying goodbye to my dad, my mum and my brother in Christchurch was tough. It has been a difficult time for us as a family, but we've pulled together and supported each other as best we can. "And I was able to get on the plane with my parents' love and blessing after we reached the decision, for me to get back playing, as a family with no external influences."

Ben Stokes' father, Ged, dies after brain cancer battle

In what has been one of the most awaited matches in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/uefa-champions-league">UEFA Champions League</a> 2020-21 group stage, Barcelona is set to host Juventus at the Camp Nou on Tuesday with Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo set to face each other for the first time since the latter left Real Madrid in 2018. The iconic duo of Ronaldo and Messi will take on each other for the 36th time in their career – an on-field rivalry which has left the footballing world at the edge of their seats for more than a decade.

While Messi and Ronaldo were to face each other in their first encounter in Turin, Ronaldo was ruled out of the match after testing positive for COVID-19. Messi went on to score a 90th-minute penalty to seal a 2-0 win for the Blaugrana.

Interestingly, Ronaldo, who is the highest-ever score in UCL history, is yet to score against Messi’s Barcelona in the UEFA Champions League whereas Messi has three goals against Ronaldo in the elite tournament.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fans-back-atletico-ac-milan-european-football-talking-points-348179" hreflang="en">Fans back, Atletico, AC Milan: European football talking points</a>

Notably, Messi has been on the losing side only once in five matches played between the duo in Champions League. Overall, Messi and Ronaldo have played 35 times in all competitions (for club and country) with the Barcelona ace leading the race with 16 wins whereas Ronaldo has tasted success 10 times. Messi has 22 goals and 12 assists to his name as compared to Ronaldo’s 19 goals and one assist.

In trophy race, Messi leads Ronaldo with 36-32. Even in the Ballon d’Or race, Messi holds the edge with six golden balls to Ronaldo’s five. However, in the international stage, Ronaldo won the Euro 206 and Nations League final titles for Portugal but Messi has lost four finals with Argentina. Ronaldo has more UCL trophies (five) to Messi’s four.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ronaldo-set-to-renew-stellar-rivalry-in-champions-league-348069" hreflang="en">Ronaldo set to renew stellar rivalry in Champions League</a>

With both the giants of the footballing world set to collide again, all eyes will be set on the duo to determine who has the final laugh in what promises to be an enticing battle.

In what has been one of the most awaited matches in UEFA Champions League 2020-21 group stage, Barcelona is set to host Juventus at the Camp Nou on Tuesday with Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo set to face each other for the first time since the latter left Real Madrid in 2018.

In what has been one of the most awaited matches in UEFA Champions League 2020-21 group stage, Barcelona is set to host Juventus at the Camp Nou on Tuesday with Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo set to face each other for the first time since the latter left Real Madrid in 2018. The iconic duo of Ronaldo and Messi will take on each other for the 36th time in their career – an on-field rivalry which has left the footballing world at the edge of their seats for more than a decade. While Messi and Ronaldo were to face each other in their first encounter in Turin, Ronaldo was ruled out of the match after testing positive for COVID-19. Messi went on to score a 90th-minute penalty to seal a 2-0 win for the Blaugrana. Interestingly, Ronaldo, who is the highest-ever score in UCL history, is yet to score against Messi’s Barcelona in the UEFA Champions League whereas Messi has three goals against Ronaldo in the elite tournament. ALSO READ: Fans back, Atletico, AC Milan: European football talking points Notably, Messi has been on the losing side only once in five matches played between the duo in Champions League. Overall, Messi and Ronaldo have played 35 times in all competitions (for club and country) with the Barcelona ace leading the race with 16 wins whereas Ronaldo has tasted success 10 times. Messi has 22 goals and 12 assists to his name as compared to Ronaldo’s 19 goals and one assist. In trophy race, Messi leads Ronaldo with 36-32. Even in the Ballon d’Or race, Messi holds the edge with six golden balls to Ronaldo’s five. However, in the international stage, Ronaldo won the Euro 206 and Nations League final titles for Portugal but Messi has lost four finals with Argentina. Ronaldo has more UCL trophies (five) to Messi’s four. ALSO READ: Ronaldo set to renew stellar rivalry in Champions League With both the giants of the footballing world set to collide again, all eyes will be set on the duo to determine who has the final laugh in what promises to be an enticing battle.

Lionel Messi to face Cristiano Ronaldo as iconic rivalry resumes in Champions League

Australia on Tuesday defeated India by 12 runs at the Sydney Cricket Ground in what was the third and final T20I match of the series. This was India’s first defeat in 12 T20Is for India with the last loss coming against the West Indies in Trivandrum in December 2019. The 12-run defeat to Australia also became India’s first away defeat in 11 matches since losing to New Zealand in Hamilton in February 2019.

The T20I series also marks the end to the limited-overs affair in India’s gruelling tour of Australia and both the teams will now focus on the four-match Test series, starting December 17.

Batting first, Australia posted 186/5 in 20 overs following a breathtaking 80-run knock off 53 deliveries laced by seven boundaries and two sixes. While captain Aaron Finch departed for a duck, Steve Smith was also sent packing for 24. Both the wickets were taken by Washington Sundar.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-left-fuming-as-umpires-deny-india-a-drs-opportunity-due-to-early-replay-348355" hreflang="en">Virat Kohli left fuming as umpires deny India a DRS opportunity due to 'early' replay</a>

Glenn Maxwell continued his rich run of form as he smashed 54 off 36 including three boundaries and as many sixes as Australia managed to post another formidable total on the board.&nbsp;

The Men in Blue, chasing 187, lost KL Rahul for a duck but Shikhar Dhawan and Virat Kohli stitched a 74-run stand before the southpaw departed for 28. Sanju Samson and Shreyas Iyer both failed to deliver with scores of 10 and 0 respectively.

Hardik Pandya smashed a couple of sixes but couldn’t continue and even Virat Kohli departed for 85 soon after Hardik was dismissed. Shardul Thakur hammered another couple of sixes but it was too little too late for India as they end the T20I series by winning it 2-1.

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“At one stage when Hardik started going, we thought we could pull it off. The middle over phase during our batting cost us the game. A partnership of 30-odd would've made it easier for Hardik. We are finding ways to come back and give the opposition a scare and the series win is a little asterisk for us to finish the 2020 season on a high,” said Kohli after India’s 12-run defeat to Australia.

“I feel the crowd was a factor as well, it's always giving you a dimension of motivation. Our crowd pulls us through sometimes, and Australia's too, and we as players feed off the crowd's energy. We need to take the same competitive attitude into the Tests, and having played here a few times, we can score runs as well. Once it's time to capitalize and score, we need to do that session by session. I'm sure the current side is stronger than last time (Test matches) and I'll see if I can play the tour match,” he added. 
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Australia on Tuesday defeated India by 12 runs at the Sydney Cricket Ground in what was the third and final T20I match of the series. This was India’s first defeat in 12 T20Is for India with the last loss coming against the West Indies in Trivandrum in December 2019.

Australia on Tuesday defeated India by 12 runs at the Sydney Cricket Ground in what was the third and final T20I match of the series. This was India’s first defeat in 12 T20Is for India with the last loss coming against the West Indies in Trivandrum in December 2019. The 12-run defeat to Australia also became India’s first away defeat in 11 matches since losing to New Zealand in Hamilton in February 2019. The T20I series also marks the end to the limited-overs affair in India’s gruelling tour of Australia and both the teams will now focus on the four-match Test series, starting December 17. Batting first, Australia posted 186/5 in 20 overs following a breathtaking 80-run knock off 53 deliveries laced by seven boundaries and two sixes. While captain Aaron Finch departed for a duck, Steve Smith was also sent packing for 24. Both the wickets were taken by Washington Sundar. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli left fuming as umpires deny India a DRS opportunity due to 'early' replay Glenn Maxwell continued his rich run of form as he smashed 54 off 36 including three boundaries and as many sixes as Australia managed to post another formidable total on the board. The Men in Blue, chasing 187, lost KL Rahul for a duck but Shikhar Dhawan and Virat Kohli stitched a 74-run stand before the southpaw departed for 28. Sanju Samson and Shreyas Iyer both failed to deliver with scores of 10 and 0 respectively. Hardik Pandya smashed a couple of sixes but couldn’t continue and even Virat Kohli departed for 85 soon after Hardik was dismissed. Shardul Thakur hammered another couple of sixes but it was too little too late for India as they end the T20I series by winning it 2-1. ALSO READ: IND vs AUS: Ravindra Jadeja likely to miss pink-ball Test “At one stage when Hardik started going, we thought we could pull it off. The middle over phase during our batting cost us the game. A partnership of 30-odd would've made it easier for Hardik. We are finding ways to come back and give the opposition a scare and the series win is a little asterisk for us to finish the 2020 season on a high,” said Kohli after India’s 12-run defeat to Australia. “I feel the crowd was a factor as well, it's always giving you a dimension of motivation. Our crowd pulls us through sometimes, and Australia's too, and we as players feed off the crowd's energy. We need to take the same competitive attitude into the Tests, and having played here a few times, we can score runs as well. Once it's time to capitalize and score, we need to do that session by session. I'm sure the current side is stronger than last time (Test matches) and I'll see if I can play the tour match,” he added.

3rd T20I: Australia take consolation win as India clinch series 2-1

The third T20I between India and Australia witnessed a chaotic and bizarre moment as the Virat Kohli-led Indian team were denied the chance to take the Decision Review System (DRS) which would have dismissed Australian opener Matthew Wade at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) on Tuesday.

The incident happened in the 11th over when Wade failed a flick off a full-length delivery from T Natarajan. The ball went on to hit Wade’s pads but neither Natarajan nor KL Rahul thought about taking a review in a bid to reverse the on-field decision by the umpire.

However, Indian skipper Virat Kohli, fielding near the boundary rope, took the DRS which was accepted by the umpires before they decided to deny it. The reason behind the bizarre call was because India took the DRS only after the replay was shown on the big screen in the SCG.

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Even Wade was heard chirping: "They have referred it? It was shown on the big screen."

While the umpires decided to not allow Indian team to take the DRS, a confused Kohli walked up to them and walked back to his fielding position after a brief chat. Whether the replay was shown on the big screen before the end of 15 seconds is yet to be known.

Wade was caught plumb as the Ball Tracker displayed three reds on the screen and should have walked back to the pavilion had the umpires not deemed India’s review as null and void.

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New Zealand all-rounder James Neesham reacted on the incident and took to social media platform Twitter to write: "That’s gotta be the most mistakes made in a 20 second window in all cricket."

The third T20I between India and Australia witnessed a chaotic and bizarre moment as the Virat Kohli-led Indian team were denied the chance to take the Decision Review System (DRS) which would have dismissed Australian opener Matthew Wade at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) on Tuesday.

The third T20I between India and Australia witnessed a chaotic and bizarre moment as the Virat Kohli-led Indian team were denied the chance to take the Decision Review System (DRS) which would have dismissed Australian opener Matthew Wade at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) on Tuesday. The incident happened in the 11th over when Wade failed a flick off a full-length delivery from T Natarajan. The ball went on to hit Wade’s pads but neither Natarajan nor KL Rahul thought about taking a review in a bid to reverse the on-field decision by the umpire. However, Indian skipper Virat Kohli, fielding near the boundary rope, took the DRS which was accepted by the umpires before they decided to deny it. The reason behind the bizarre call was because India took the DRS only after the replay was shown on the big screen in the SCG. ALSO READ: Pakistan cricketers to leave New Zealand quarantine, cleared to train for 1st T20I Even Wade was heard chirping: "They have referred it? It was shown on the big screen." While the umpires decided to not allow Indian team to take the DRS, a confused Kohli walked up to them and walked back to his fielding position after a brief chat. Whether the replay was shown on the big screen before the end of 15 seconds is yet to be known. Wade was caught plumb as the Ball Tracker displayed three reds on the screen and should have walked back to the pavilion had the umpires not deemed India’s review as null and void. TRENDING: Watch - Sachin Tendulkar enjoys parasailing on vacation New Zealand all-rounder James Neesham reacted on the incident and took to social media platform Twitter to write: "That’s gotta be the most mistakes made in a 20 second window in all cricket."

Virat Kohli left fuming as umpires deny India a DRS opportunity due to 'early' replay

Super-agent Mino Raiola has said that his client Paul Pogba is “unhappy” at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> club Manchester United and exit Old Trafford in the next transfer window hinting that it may be the end of one-time world’s most expensive player as a Red Devil.

Raiola said that the World Cup-winning French midfielder needs a “change of scene” after struggling to establish himself as a definite starter under manager Ole Gunnar Soskjaer.

"Paul's unhappy at Manchester United, he can't express himself any more as he would like to and as we expect of him," Raiola told Italian newspaper Tuttosport.

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"He has to change teams, he needs a change of scene. His contract is up in a year-and-a-half, in the summer of 2022, but I think the best solution for all sides is a transfer in the next window." 
Raiola confirmed that Pogba, who was signed by Manchester United from Juventus for a then world record fee £89 million ($118 million) in 2016, has no intention to extend his contract.&nbsp;

"The club... knows it risks losing him for nothing, as at the moment the player has no intention of extending his contract," Raiola said.

"If anyone doesn't understand, they don't understand anything about football."

Pogba’s presence has been overshadowed since the arrival of midfielder Bruno Fernandes and the Frenchman has repeatedly spoken about his frustrations at club level while on international duty.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-will-do-700-more-then-retire-pep-guardiola-ecstatic-to-touch-iconic-milestone-as-manager-347568" hreflang="en">I will do 700 more, then retire: Pep Guardiola ecstatic to touch iconic milestone as manager</a>

"He is in a situation with his club where he cannot be happy, neither with his playing time, nor with his positioning," France coach Didier Deschamps said last month.

Pogba has many a times expressed his wish to play for Real Madrid one day and moreover if that means playing under French icon Zinedine Zidane.

The former Juventus midfielder’s stunner in Saturday’s 3-1 win against West Ham was his first goal in eight Premier League appearances in the 2020-21 season.

Super-agent Mino Raiola has said that his client Paul Pogba is “unhappy” at the Premier League club Manchester United and exit Old Trafford in the next transfer window hinting that it may be the end of one-time world’s most expensive player as a Red Devil.

Super-agent Mino Raiola has said that his client Paul Pogba is “unhappy” at the Premier League club Manchester United and exit Old Trafford in the next transfer window hinting that it may be the end of one-time world’s most expensive player as a Red Devil. Raiola said that the World Cup-winning French midfielder needs a “change of scene” after struggling to establish himself as a definite starter under manager Ole Gunnar Soskjaer. "Paul's unhappy at Manchester United, he can't express himself any more as he would like to and as we expect of him," Raiola told Italian newspaper Tuttosport. ALSO READ: Danny Ings scores controversial VAR penalty as Southampton climb to fifth in Premier League "He has to change teams, he needs a change of scene. His contract is up in a year-and-a-half, in the summer of 2022, but I think the best solution for all sides is a transfer in the next window." Raiola confirmed that Pogba, who was signed by Manchester United from Juventus for a then world record fee £89 million ($118 million) in 2016, has no intention to extend his contract. "The club... knows it risks losing him for nothing, as at the moment the player has no intention of extending his contract," Raiola said. "If anyone doesn't understand, they don't understand anything about football." Pogba’s presence has been overshadowed since the arrival of midfielder Bruno Fernandes and the Frenchman has repeatedly spoken about his frustrations at club level while on international duty. ALSO READ: I will do 700 more, then retire: Pep Guardiola ecstatic to touch iconic milestone as manager "He is in a situation with his club where he cannot be happy, neither with his playing time, nor with his positioning," France coach Didier Deschamps said last month. Pogba has many a times expressed his wish to play for Real Madrid one day and moreover if that means playing under French icon Zinedine Zidane. The former Juventus midfielder’s stunner in Saturday’s 3-1 win against West Ham was his first goal in eight Premier League appearances in the 2020-21 season.

Paul Pogba 'unhappy' at Manchester United, wants to leave club: Agent Mino Raiola

Pakistan cricketers are set to leave quarantine in Christchurch on Tuesday after testing negative for COVID-19, New Zealand health authorities said. The visiting Pakistani cricket team has a contingent of more than 50 players and officials have been isolated in their hotel for two weeks and were under strict mandatory isolation under New Zealand’s stringent COVID-19 protocols.

Pakistan cricketers have been confined to their rooms and are unable to train for most of that time after 10 coronavirus cases were detected among the group with head coach Misbah-ul-Haq complaining about the ‘mental’ and ‘physical’ impact on his players.

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"Top professional athletes require a certain environment to prepare so that they can perform at the minimum expected levels every time they represent their countries," Misbah said in a statement.&nbsp;

He said Pakistan "respect and understand" the health and safety regulations, but "there is no denying the fact that the implementation of certain regulations has affected our athletes, both mentally and physically prior to an international series"

However, New Zealand health ministry on Tuesday confirmed that all the latest swabs have come back negative and the majority of the group has been cleared to leave the hardcore quarantine.

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"After extensive testing and completion of their time in managed isolation in Christchurch, the Canterbury (district) medical officer of health is satisfied these people pose a very low risk to the community," it said.

The NZ health ministry said one person will be kept in isolation at the Christchurch quarantine hotel to ensure the recovery from the coronavirus was complete.

Pakistan will travel to Queenstown for training ahead of their first T20I of the three-match series against the Black Caps in Auckland on December 18. Both Pakistan and New Zealand will play two Tests after the completion of T20I series in New Zealand.

Pakistan cricketers are set to leave quarantine in Christchurch on Tuesday after testing negative for COVID-19, New Zealand health authorities said. The visiting Pakistani cricket team has a contingent of more than 50 players and officials have been isolated in their hotel for two weeks and were under strict mandatory isolation under New Zealand’s stringent COVID-19 protocols.

Pakistan cricketers are set to leave quarantine in Christchurch on Tuesday after testing negative for COVID-19, New Zealand health authorities said. The visiting Pakistani cricket team has a contingent of more than 50 players and officials have been isolated in their hotel for two weeks and were under strict mandatory isolation under New Zealand’s stringent COVID-19 protocols. Pakistan cricketers have been confined to their rooms and are unable to train for most of that time after 10 coronavirus cases were detected among the group with head coach Misbah-ul-Haq complaining about the ‘mental’ and ‘physical’ impact on his players. TRENDING: Watch - Sachin Tendulkar enjoys parasailing on vacation "Top professional athletes require a certain environment to prepare so that they can perform at the minimum expected levels every time they represent their countries," Misbah said in a statement. He said Pakistan "respect and understand" the health and safety regulations, but "there is no denying the fact that the implementation of certain regulations has affected our athletes, both mentally and physically prior to an international series" However, New Zealand health ministry on Tuesday confirmed that all the latest swabs have come back negative and the majority of the group has been cleared to leave the hardcore quarantine. ALSO READ: Breakdancing gets Olympic green light for Paris 2024 "After extensive testing and completion of their time in managed isolation in Christchurch, the Canterbury (district) medical officer of health is satisfied these people pose a very low risk to the community," it said. The NZ health ministry said one person will be kept in isolation at the Christchurch quarantine hotel to ensure the recovery from the coronavirus was complete. Pakistan will travel to Queenstown for training ahead of their first T20I of the three-match series against the Black Caps in Auckland on December 18. Both Pakistan and New Zealand will play two Tests after the completion of T20I series in New Zealand.

Pakistan cricketers to leave New Zealand quarantine, cleared to train for 1st T20I

Legendary Indian cricketer Sachin Tendulkar is on a vacation with his family as the Master Blaster decided to take a break as life eases after COVID-19 lockdowns. A lover of not only cricket but also of adventure sports, Tendulkar took to social media to share some photos and a video of him parasailing.&nbsp;

Tendulkar used the song ‘Udd Gaye’ by Ritviz in the background to enhance the feel of parasailing for his fans. Tendulkar captioned the post as, "Hum toh Udd Gaye! #parasailing #adventure #watersports".

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<h2>Here is Sachin Tendulkar's parasailing video:</h2>

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CIf10F1g06Z/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Sachin Tendulkar (@sachintendulkar)</a>
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The Instagram post by Tendulkar received love and affection from his fans with many wishing him a happy vacation.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/englands-tour-of-south-africa-called-off-after-covid-19-outbreak-348141" hreflang="en">England's tour of South Africa called off after COVID-19 outbreak</a>

Tendulkar, updating his fans about his mysterious getaway as he recently uploaded a photo with his son, Arjun, who also plays cricket and is a left-arm pace bowler. The father-son duo was seen with stylish sunglasses as the Master Blaster captioned it: "Vacation Vibes".

Tendulkar has been quite active with his cricket-related opinions via his social media platforms. But he his non-cricket posts have been pretty vibrant as well and ranges from food to family photographs.

Tendulkar made his India debut against Pakistan in Karachi when he was 16-years-old. He made his ODI debut on December 18, 1989. After fighting for the coveted World Cup trophy for all his career, Tendulkar finally lifted the iconic trophy in ICC World Cup 2011 under MS Dhoni’s leadership.

The Master Blaster ended his career in 2013 as the highest run-scorer in Tests and ODIs.

Legendary Indian cricketer Sachin Tendulkar is on a vacation with his family as the Master Blaster decided to take a break as life eases after COVID-19 lockdowns.

Legendary Indian cricketer Sachin Tendulkar is on a vacation with his family as the Master Blaster decided to take a break as life eases after COVID-19 lockdowns. A lover of not only cricket but also of adventure sports, Tendulkar took to social media to share some photos and a video of him parasailing. Tendulkar used the song ‘Udd Gaye’ by Ritviz in the background to enhance the feel of parasailing for his fans. Tendulkar captioned the post as, "Hum toh Udd Gaye! #parasailing #adventure #watersports". ALSO READ: Cameron Green smashes century but Warner stand-ins fail against India in warm-up Here is Sachin Tendulkar's parasailing video: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sachin Tendulkar (@sachintendulkar) × The Instagram post by Tendulkar received love and affection from his fans with many wishing him a happy vacation. ALSO READ: England's tour of South Africa called off after COVID-19 outbreak Tendulkar, updating his fans about his mysterious getaway as he recently uploaded a photo with his son, Arjun, who also plays cricket and is a left-arm pace bowler. The father-son duo was seen with stylish sunglasses as the Master Blaster captioned it: "Vacation Vibes". Tendulkar has been quite active with his cricket-related opinions via his social media platforms. But he his non-cricket posts have been pretty vibrant as well and ranges from food to family photographs. Tendulkar made his India debut against Pakistan in Karachi when he was 16-years-old. He made his ODI debut on December 18, 1989. After fighting for the coveted World Cup trophy for all his career, Tendulkar finally lifted the iconic trophy in ICC World Cup 2011 under MS Dhoni’s leadership. The Master Blaster ended his career in 2013 as the highest run-scorer in Tests and ODIs.

Watch - Sachin Tendulkar enjoys parasailing on vacation

Manchester United face a herculean task of defeating German club RB Leipzig in their crunch <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/uefa-champions-league">UEFA Champions League</a> match on Tuesday as the Premier League club will be without the servives of Edinson Cavani and Anthony Martial.

Manchester United will qualify if they avoid a defeat against Leipzig but the duo of Cavani and Martial – who helped the Red Devils win 3-1 at West Ham this weekend, will miss out due to ‘minor niggles’.

The Ole Gunnar Solskjaer-managed side lost 3-1 to Paris Saint-Germain last week and pressure will be on the English club when they take the field to face Leipzig.&nbsp;

"David (De Gea) is back in travelling, Luke (Shaw) is travelling," said Solskjaer, who is without Fred through suspension.

"Edinson and Anthony they've only minor niggles but they won't be making the trip." 
Manchester United started the UCL group stage action with an impressive win against PSG followed by a 5-0 hammering of Leipzig at home. However, a defeat to Istanbul Basaksehir threw the group open.

"Knockout games or games like this that mean you can go through or not are big," he said.

"The players are here, they are Man United players, because they have qualities that we've looked for and I'm sure that tomorrow night will prove that's the reason why they're here, they will show it.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ronaldo-set-to-renew-stellar-rivalry-in-champions-league-348069" hreflang="en">Ronaldo set to renew stellar rivalry in Champions League</a>

"I think the character of the group is getting better and better and we're looking forward to the game." 
Manchester United, who last lifted the coveted UCL in 2008, will need to be self-motivated by their away form this season.&nbsp;

"It's something that we want, games like this," said Solskjaer. "It's a tradition for Man United -- we never make it easy for ourselves.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/next-year-we-have-to-do-it-neymar-keen-for-messi-reunion-347119" hreflang="en">'Next year we have to do it': Neymar keen for Messi reunion</a>

"Of course we look at the games, especially the away game against Istanbul (Basaksehir) that we could have got three points, but that's just the way we do things.

"We do make it hard for ourselves. That's been ever since I played and that's a long, long time ago."

Manchester United face a herculean task of defeating German club RB Leipzig in their crunch UEFA Champions League match on Tuesday as the Premier League club will be without the servives of Edinson Cavani and Anthony Martial.

Manchester United face a herculean task of defeating German club RB Leipzig in their crunch UEFA Champions League match on Tuesday as the Premier League club will be without the servives of Edinson Cavani and Anthony Martial. Manchester United will qualify if they avoid a defeat against Leipzig but the duo of Cavani and Martial – who helped the Red Devils win 3-1 at West Ham this weekend, will miss out due to ‘minor niggles’. The Ole Gunnar Solskjaer-managed side lost 3-1 to Paris Saint-Germain last week and pressure will be on the English club when they take the field to face Leipzig. "David (De Gea) is back in travelling, Luke (Shaw) is travelling," said Solskjaer, who is without Fred through suspension. "Edinson and Anthony they've only minor niggles but they won't be making the trip." Manchester United started the UCL group stage action with an impressive win against PSG followed by a 5-0 hammering of Leipzig at home. However, a defeat to Istanbul Basaksehir threw the group open. "Knockout games or games like this that mean you can go through or not are big," he said. "The players are here, they are Man United players, because they have qualities that we've looked for and I'm sure that tomorrow night will prove that's the reason why they're here, they will show it. ALSO READ: Ronaldo set to renew stellar rivalry in Champions League "I think the character of the group is getting better and better and we're looking forward to the game." Manchester United, who last lifted the coveted UCL in 2008, will need to be self-motivated by their away form this season. "It's something that we want, games like this," said Solskjaer. "It's a tradition for Man United -- we never make it easy for ourselves. ALSO READ: 'Next year we have to do it': Neymar keen for Messi reunion "Of course we look at the games, especially the away game against Istanbul (Basaksehir) that we could have got three points, but that's just the way we do things. "We do make it hard for ourselves. That's been ever since I played and that's a long, long time ago."

UCL: Without Cavani and Martial, Manchester United face tricky task against RB Leipzig

The fans returned in England, the top-of-the-table clash in Germany ended in a draw, La Liga has an unfamiliar look and AC Milan are five points clear in Serie A.

AFP looks at five talking points from around the continent this weekend.

<h2>- The sound of a few fans clapping -</h2>

Fans were allowed back into games in the Britain for the first time since March, but only in those regions where the latest coronavirus wave is deemed less serious.

That meant 2,000 fans at the three Premier League games in London and at Liverpool.

"When we came out we all had goosebumps," said Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp.&nbsp;

Tottenham, Liverpool and Chelsea all responded with comfortable victories to remain in that order at the top of the table.&nbsp;

The fans did their best to make a noise. "You'll Never Walk Alone", poignant in the circumstances, rang out at Anfield as Liverpool beat Wolves.&nbsp;

"It was very emotional, after 10 months without that it is a wonderful, wonderful sign," said Klopp. "I never knew it could feel that good."

But there was also a reminder of English football's troubled history with its fan base as masked supporters at second-tier Millwall booed as players took a knee before kick-off.

<h2>- Atletico profit -</h2>

In recent years, Atletico Madrid have been the third contender in a two-team league. Their La Liga title in 2014 marks the only interruption in the Real Madrid-Barcelona duopoly since 2005.

But Atletico moved to the top this weekend after beating Valladolid 2-0 on Saturday and helped by the failings of others.

The immediate victims were Real Sociedad, who started the weekend in first but deprived of injured striker Mikel Oyarzabal could only draw 0-0 at Alaves.

But Atletico are profiting from the inconsistency of Real Madrid, who reversed a series of bad results by eking out a 1-0 win at Sevilla to stay fourth and the Liga meltdown at Barcelona who lost 2-1 at Cadiz and are ninth.

Atletico meanwhile are settling into a menacing groove. They have won seven straight in La Liga and conceded just two goals in 10 league games.

However, coach Diego Simeone is not prepared to talk about titles. "In football we live for what is going to happen in the next week," he said.

<h2>- Rivals keep heat on PSG -</h2>

Five points separate the top six in France, where defending champions Paris Saint-Germain find themselves under increasing pressure from in-form Lyon and Marseille, as well as Lille.&nbsp;

Late goals from Moise Kean and Kylian Mbappe, his 100th for the club, secured a 3-1 win at Montpellier to keep PSG top after they were in danger of going three Ligue 1 games without a victory for the first time since April 2019.&nbsp;

Lyon and Lille will both have the chance to test PSG's mettle later this month while Marseille, despite their woeful Champions League campaign, could supplant their bitter rivals in first place by winning their two games in hand.

<h2>- Do AC Milan dare to dream? -</h2>

AC Milan are doggedly holding onto their five-point lead at the top of Serie A after beating Sampdoria 2-1 on Sunday and their success-starved supporters might finally be starting to dream.

Franck Kessie's penalty just before half-time and Samu Castillejo's goal in the 77th minute were enough for the seven-time European champions to keep local rivals Inter Milan firmly in second place. They didn't even need the absent Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

Milan dominated Italian and European football in the 1990s, winning five Serie A titles in eight years with a sparkling team including Marco van Basten and Ruud Gullit under the ownership of Silvio Berlusconi.

But their last Italian title dates back to 2011.

<h2>- Leverkusen going under the radar -</h2>

Peter Bosz's Bayer Leverkusen have quietly emerged as the closest challengers to Bayern Munich in Germany, despite the sale of Kai Havertz and Kevin Volland.&nbsp;

Leverkusen are one of two unbeaten teams in the Bundesliga, along with Wolfsburg, and made it six wins in seven with Sunday's 3-0 defeat of hapless Schalke, leaving them a point adrift of Bayern.

They have largely relied on the goals of Argentine striker Lucas Alario, although had to make do without their top scorer this weekend due to injury.

Instead, Patrik Schick, the club's headline summer signing, scored his first goal since returning from a spell of his own on the sidelines.

The fans returned in England, the top-of-the-table clash in Germany ended in a draw, La Liga has an unfamiliar look and AC Milan are five points clear in Serie A.

The fans returned in England, the top-of-the-table clash in Germany ended in a draw, La Liga has an unfamiliar look and AC Milan are five points clear in Serie A. AFP looks at five talking points from around the continent this weekend. - The sound of a few fans clapping - Fans were allowed back into games in the Britain for the first time since March, but only in those regions where the latest coronavirus wave is deemed less serious. That meant 2,000 fans at the three Premier League games in London and at Liverpool. "When we came out we all had goosebumps," said Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp. Tottenham, Liverpool and Chelsea all responded with comfortable victories to remain in that order at the top of the table. The fans did their best to make a noise. "You'll Never Walk Alone", poignant in the circumstances, rang out at Anfield as Liverpool beat Wolves. "It was very emotional, after 10 months without that it is a wonderful, wonderful sign," said Klopp. "I never knew it could feel that good." But there was also a reminder of English football's troubled history with its fan base as masked supporters at second-tier Millwall booed as players took a knee before kick-off. - Atletico profit - In recent years, Atletico Madrid have been the third contender in a two-team league. Their La Liga title in 2014 marks the only interruption in the Real Madrid-Barcelona duopoly since 2005. But Atletico moved to the top this weekend after beating Valladolid 2-0 on Saturday and helped by the failings of others. The immediate victims were Real Sociedad, who started the weekend in first but deprived of injured striker Mikel Oyarzabal could only draw 0-0 at Alaves. But Atletico are profiting from the inconsistency of Real Madrid, who reversed a series of bad results by eking out a 1-0 win at Sevilla to stay fourth and the Liga meltdown at Barcelona who lost 2-1 at Cadiz and are ninth. Atletico meanwhile are settling into a menacing groove. They have won seven straight in La Liga and conceded just two goals in 10 league games. However, coach Diego Simeone is not prepared to talk about titles. "In football we live for what is going to happen in the next week," he said. - Rivals keep heat on PSG - Five points separate the top six in France, where defending champions Paris Saint-Germain find themselves under increasing pressure from in-form Lyon and Marseille, as well as Lille. Late goals from Moise Kean and Kylian Mbappe, his 100th for the club, secured a 3-1 win at Montpellier to keep PSG top after they were in danger of going three Ligue 1 games without a victory for the first time since April 2019. Lyon and Lille will both have the chance to test PSG's mettle later this month while Marseille, despite their woeful Champions League campaign, could supplant their bitter rivals in first place by winning their two games in hand. - Do AC Milan dare to dream? - AC Milan are doggedly holding onto their five-point lead at the top of Serie A after beating Sampdoria 2-1 on Sunday and their success-starved supporters might finally be starting to dream. Franck Kessie's penalty just before half-time and Samu Castillejo's goal in the 77th minute were enough for the seven-time European champions to keep local rivals Inter Milan firmly in second place. They didn't even need the absent Zlatan Ibrahimovic. Milan dominated Italian and European football in the 1990s, winning five Serie A titles in eight years with a sparkling team including Marco van Basten and Ruud Gullit under the ownership of Silvio Berlusconi. But their last Italian title dates back to 2011. - Leverkusen going under the radar - Peter Bosz's Bayer Leverkusen have quietly emerged as the closest challengers to Bayern Munich in Germany, despite the sale of Kai Havertz and Kevin Volland. Leverkusen are one of two unbeaten teams in the Bundesliga, along with Wolfsburg, and made it six wins in seven with Sunday's 3-0 defeat of hapless Schalke, leaving them a point adrift of Bayern. They have largely relied on the goals of Argentine striker Lucas Alario, although had to make do without their top scorer this weekend due to injury. Instead, Patrik Schick, the club's headline summer signing, scored his first goal since returning from a spell of his own on the sidelines.

Fans back, Atletico, AC Milan: European football talking points

Valtteri Bottas admitted he was made to look "like a fool" in Sunday's Sakhir Grand Prix when Lewis Hamilton's substitute George Russell outperformed him with a stellar, if unrewarded, drive.

The Mercedes pair finished eighth and ninth, with Bottas ahead, after an action-filled race, but it was Russell who shone as he had a stunning maiden victory taken from him by a bungled pit stop and a late puncture.

Bottas, who started from pole position, lost the lead at the start and struggled to mount a challenge as the young Briton, standing in for Covid-19 victim Hamilton, showed pace and poise at the front for 62 laps.

"If you don't know things, I might have looked like a complete fool, so that's not nice," said Bottas.

"But the people who know, they know how the performance was and how the end result could have been.

"It was a pretty bad race for me and it's easy for people to say that a new guy comes in and he beats the guy who has been in the team a few years -- so it was not ideal.

"I knew that in the first stint, with the medium tyre, that the track position would be important so obviously it was unfortunate to lose that.

"But in the second stint, I was catching him at a pretty decent rate."

Bottas's bid to respond to Russell was undone when they both pitted during a safety car period and Mercedes muddled up their tyres.

"It's hard to explain the feeling when you come to a pit stop and you leave with the same old tyres that you came in with -- and then lose positions," said the Finn.

"Obviously, a big mistake from the team that will be analysed and learned from –- it was a nightmare being on the old tyres that had lost temperature. I was like a sitting duck."

Valtteri Bottas admitted he was made to look "like a fool" in Sunday's Sakhir Grand Prix when Lewis Hamilton's substitute George Russell outperformed him with a stellar, if unrewarded, drive.

Valtteri Bottas admitted he was made to look "like a fool" in Sunday's Sakhir Grand Prix when Lewis Hamilton's substitute George Russell outperformed him with a stellar, if unrewarded, drive. The Mercedes pair finished eighth and ninth, with Bottas ahead, after an action-filled race, but it was Russell who shone as he had a stunning maiden victory taken from him by a bungled pit stop and a late puncture. Bottas, who started from pole position, lost the lead at the start and struggled to mount a challenge as the young Briton, standing in for Covid-19 victim Hamilton, showed pace and poise at the front for 62 laps. "If you don't know things, I might have looked like a complete fool, so that's not nice," said Bottas. "But the people who know, they know how the performance was and how the end result could have been. "It was a pretty bad race for me and it's easy for people to say that a new guy comes in and he beats the guy who has been in the team a few years -- so it was not ideal. "I knew that in the first stint, with the medium tyre, that the track position would be important so obviously it was unfortunate to lose that. "But in the second stint, I was catching him at a pretty decent rate." Bottas's bid to respond to Russell was undone when they both pitted during a safety car period and Mercedes muddled up their tyres. "It's hard to explain the feeling when you come to a pit stop and you leave with the same old tyres that you came in with -- and then lose positions," said the Finn. "Obviously, a big mistake from the team that will be analysed and learned from –- it was a nightmare being on the old tyres that had lost temperature. I was like a sitting duck."

Bottas made to 'look like a fool' by Mercedes stand-in Russell

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