The UEFA Men’s Player of the Year 2020 award was awarded to Bayern Munich striker Robert Lewandowski as he raked up more points than other top players in contention for the award. The Poland international pipped the likes of Kevin de Bruyne and Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer for the coveted award.

But how many points did the likes of Lewandowski, Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi and other top 10 contenders for the UEFA Player of the Year award get?

Lewandowski enjoyed a scintillating season where the lethal forward not only outscored everyone but also bagged as many as five titles with Bayern Munich – Bundesliga, DFB Poka, UEFA Champions League, UEFA Super Cup and DFB Super Cup – to wrap up a trophy-laden season.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-champions-league-2020-21-draw-man-united-psg-get-group-of-death-lewandowski-wins-player-of-the-year-331807" hreflang="en">UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Draw: Man United, PSG get Group of Death; Lewandowski wins Player of the Year</a>

The 31-year-old Bayern Munich striker was followed by Man City midfielder Kevin de Bruyne, who won the UEFA Midfielder of the Year award and teammate Manuel Neuer.&nbsp;

While Lewandowski got 477 voting points, second-placed de Bruyne could get only 90 points while Neuer had 66 points to his name.

<h2>UEFA Men's Player of the Year Vote Count:</h2>

<ol>
	<li>Robert Lewandowski (Bayern Munich) – 477 points</li>
	<li>Kevin de Bruyne (Man City) – 90 points</li>
	<li>Manuel Neuer (Bayern Munich) – 66 points</li>
	<li>Lionel Messi (Barcelona) – 53 points</li>
	<li>Neymar (PSG) – 53 points</li>
	<li>Thomas Muller (Bayern Munich) – 41 points&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Kylian Mbappe (PSG) – 39 points</li>
	<li>Thiago Alcantara (Bayern Munich/Liverpool) – 27 points</li>
	<li>Joshua Kimmich (Bayern Munich) – 26 points</li>
	<li>Cristiano Ronaldo (Juventus) – 25 points</li>
</ol>

Talking about Messi and Ronaldo, the former ended up trophyless with Barcelona but had some great stats when it comes to goals and assists. Whereas Ronaldo won the Serie A with Juventus and had a prolific season in front of the goal.&nbsp;

However, Lewandowski was the top scorer in every competition in played as he netted a whopping 55 goals in all competitions. 
&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The UEFA Men’s Player of the Year 2020 award was awarded to Bayern Munich striker Robert Lewandowski as he raked up more points than other top players in contention for the award.

The UEFA Men’s Player of the Year 2020 award was awarded to Bayern Munich striker Robert Lewandowski as he raked up more points than other top players in contention for the award. The Poland international pipped the likes of Kevin de Bruyne and Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer for the coveted award. But how many points did the likes of Lewandowski, Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi and other top 10 contenders for the UEFA Player of the Year award get? Lewandowski enjoyed a scintillating season where the lethal forward not only outscored everyone but also bagged as many as five titles with Bayern Munich – Bundesliga, DFB Poka, UEFA Champions League, UEFA Super Cup and DFB Super Cup – to wrap up a trophy-laden season. ALSO READ: UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Draw: Man United, PSG get Group of Death; Lewandowski wins Player of the Year The 31-year-old Bayern Munich striker was followed by Man City midfielder Kevin de Bruyne, who won the UEFA Midfielder of the Year award and teammate Manuel Neuer. While Lewandowski got 477 voting points, second-placed de Bruyne could get only 90 points while Neuer had 66 points to his name. UEFA Men's Player of the Year Vote Count: Robert Lewandowski (Bayern Munich) – 477 points Kevin de Bruyne (Man City) – 90 points Manuel Neuer (Bayern Munich) – 66 points Lionel Messi (Barcelona) – 53 points Neymar (PSG) – 53 points Thomas Muller (Bayern Munich) – 41 points Kylian Mbappe (PSG) – 39 points Thiago Alcantara (Bayern Munich/Liverpool) – 27 points Joshua Kimmich (Bayern Munich) – 26 points Cristiano Ronaldo (Juventus) – 25 points Talking about Messi and Ronaldo, the former ended up trophyless with Barcelona but had some great stats when it comes to goals and assists. Whereas Ronaldo won the Serie A with Juventus and had a prolific season in front of the goal. However, Lewandowski was the top scorer in every competition in played as he netted a whopping 55 goals in all competitions.

UEFA Player of the Year 2020: How many points did Lewandowski, Messi, Ronaldo acquire?

Australia have retained top positions in the MRF Tyres ICC Women’s Team Rankings for both ODIs and T20Is while India have overtaken New Zealand to grab third position in the T20I table, after the annual rankings update carried out on Friday.

In other noteworthy changes in the latest update, which expunges results from the 2016-17 season, weights the 2017-18 and 2018-19 seasons at 50% and the 2019-20 matches at 100%, South Africa have overtaken New Zealand to fourth place and Bangladesh have leapfrogged Sri Lanka to eighth in the ODI table.

Record lead for Australia in ODIs:&nbsp;Six-time ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup champions and winners of both editions of the ICC Women’s Championship, Australia’s stellar display during the rating period saw them win 20 of 21 ODIs, increasing their tally by eight points to 160.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2020-action-in-pictures-as-grand-festival-of-cricket-starts-in-uae-328877" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Action in pictures as 'grand festival' of cricket starts in UAE</a>

Their massive lead of 39 points over second-placed India is the largest by any team (men or women) in any form of the game. It comes on the back of 3-0 series wins over India, Pakistan, New Zealand, England, West Indies, Sri Lanka and an earlier 2-1 win over England at the start of the ICC Women’s Championship, only a few months after England had won the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup in 2017.

India (121) and England (119) have lost four points each while clinging on to their second and third positions, respectively, while South Africa (107) enjoy a 13-point lead over New Zealand (94), with the West Indies (85), Pakistan (77), Bangladesh (61) and Sri Lanka (47) following in that order.

India’s gain only change in top 15 of T20Is list:&nbsp;The women’s T20I rankings table sees Australia and England retain the top two positions, their points tally remaining 291 and 280, respectively. India, who made the final of this year’s ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, have overtaken New Zealand, in what is the only change in the top 15 of the 56-team list.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-csk-vs-srh-preview-stats-and-probable-xi-331924">IPL 2020, CSK vs SRH: Preview, stats, and probable XI</a>

The biggest improvement in rankings has been registered by Brazil, who are up 11 places to 27th, after a gain of 15 rating points, while the biggest ranking fall has been for Malaysia, who are down from 31st to 38th. Samoa (up two places to 16th), Indonesia (up two places to 20th) and the United States of America (up four places to 31st) are among other teams to have made notable progress.

Three teams have lost their place on the rankings table. Denmark and Belgium have not played any matches since October 2017 while Qatar have played fewer than the required six during the period.

MRF Tyres ICC Women’s ODI Team Rankings (as of 2 October 2020, following the annual update):

<table>
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>
			Rank
			</td>
			<td>
			Team
			</td>
			<td>
			Points
			</td>
			<td>
			Change
			</td>
			<td>
			Rank Change
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>
			1
			</td>
			<td>
			Australia
			</td>
			<td>
			160
			</td>
			<td>
			(+8)
			</td>
			<td>
			0
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>
			2
			</td>
			<td>
			India
			</td>
			<td>
			121
			</td>
			<td>
			(-4)
			</td>
			<td>
			0
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>
			3
			</td>
			<td>
			England
			</td>
			<td>
			119
			</td>
			<td>
			(-4)
			</td>
			<td>
			0
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>
			4
			</td>
			<td>
			South Africa&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
			</td>
			<td>
			107
			</td>
			<td>
			(+6)
			</td>
			<td>
			+1
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>
			5
			</td>
			<td>
			New Zealand
			</td>
			<td>
			94
			</td>
			<td>
			(-9)
			</td>
			<td>
			-1
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>
			6
			</td>
			<td>
			West Indies
			</td>
			<td>
			85
			</td>
			<td>
			(+3)
			</td>
			<td>
			0
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>
			7
			</td>
			<td>
			Pakistan
			</td>
			<td>
			77
			</td>
			<td>
			(+4)
			</td>
			<td>
			0
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>
			8
			</td>
			<td>
			Bangladesh
			</td>
			<td>
			61
			</td>
			<td>
			(+7)
			</td>
			<td>
			+

			1
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>
			9
			</td>
			<td>
			Sri Lanka
			</td>
			<td>
			47
			</td>
			<td>
			(-8)
			</td>
			<td>
			-1
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>
			10
			</td>
			<td>
			Ireland
			</td>
			<td>
			13
			</td>
			<td>
			(-5)
			</td>
			<td>
			0
			</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

MRF Tyres ICC Women’s T20I Team Rankings (as of 2 October 2020, following the annual update):

<table>
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>
			Rank
			</td>
			<td>
			Team
			</td>
			<td>
			Points
			</td>
			<td>
			Change
			</td>
			<td>
			Rank Change
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>
			1
			</td>
			<td>
			Australia
			</td>
			<td>
			291
			</td>
			<td>
			0
			</td>
			<td>
			0
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>
			2
			</td>
			<td>
			England
			</td>
			<td>
			280
			</td>
			<td>
			0
			</td>
			<td>
			0
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>
			3
			</td>
			<td>
			India
			</td>
			<td>
			270
			</td>
			<td>
			5
			</td>
			<td>
			1
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>
			4
			</td>
			<td>
			NewZealand
			</td>
			<td>
			269
			</td>
			<td>
			-2
			</td>
			<td>
			-1
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>
			5
			</td>
			<td>
			SouthAfrica
			</td>
			<td>
			249
			</td>
			<td>
			3
			</td>
			<td>
			0
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>
			6
			</td>
			<td>
			WestIndies
			</td>
			<td>
			236
			</td>
			<td>
			-7
			</td>
			<td>
			0
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>
			7
			</td>
			<td>
			Pakistan
			</td>
			<td>
			230
			</td>
			<td>
			1
			</td>
			<td>
			0
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>
			8
			</td>
			<td>
			SriLanka
			</td>
			<td>
			202
			</td>
			<td>
			1
			</td>
			<td>
			0
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>
			9
			</td>
			<td>
			Bangladesh
			</td>
			<td>
			192
			</td>
			<td>
			0
			</td>
			<td>
			0
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>
			10
			</td>
			<td>
			Ireland
			</td>
			<td>
			168
			</td>
			<td>
			3
			</td>
			<td>
			0
			</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

Australia have retained top positions in the MRF Tyres ICC Women’s Team Rankings for both ODIs and T20Is while India have overtaken New Zealand to grab third position in the T20I table, after the annual rankings update carried out on Friday.

Australia have retained top positions in the MRF Tyres ICC Women’s Team Rankings for both ODIs and T20Is while India have overtaken New Zealand to grab third position in the T20I table, after the annual rankings update carried out on Friday. In other noteworthy changes in the latest update, which expunges results from the 2016-17 season, weights the 2017-18 and 2018-19 seasons at 50% and the 2019-20 matches at 100%, South Africa have overtaken New Zealand to fourth place and Bangladesh have leapfrogged Sri Lanka to eighth in the ODI table. Record lead for Australia in ODIs: Six-time ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup champions and winners of both editions of the ICC Women’s Championship, Australia’s stellar display during the rating period saw them win 20 of 21 ODIs, increasing their tally by eight points to 160. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Action in pictures as 'grand festival' of cricket starts in UAE Their massive lead of 39 points over second-placed India is the largest by any team (men or women) in any form of the game. It comes on the back of 3-0 series wins over India, Pakistan, New Zealand, England, West Indies, Sri Lanka and an earlier 2-1 win over England at the start of the ICC Women’s Championship, only a few months after England had won the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup in 2017. India (121) and England (119) have lost four points each while clinging on to their second and third positions, respectively, while South Africa (107) enjoy a 13-point lead over New Zealand (94), with the West Indies (85), Pakistan (77), Bangladesh (61) and Sri Lanka (47) following in that order. India’s gain only change in top 15 of T20Is list: The women’s T20I rankings table sees Australia and England retain the top two positions, their points tally remaining 291 and 280, respectively. India, who made the final of this year’s ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, have overtaken New Zealand, in what is the only change in the top 15 of the 56-team list. ALSO READ: IPL 2020, CSK vs SRH: Preview, stats, and probable XI The biggest improvement in rankings has been registered by Brazil, who are up 11 places to 27th, after a gain of 15 rating points, while the biggest ranking fall has been for Malaysia, who are down from 31st to 38th. Samoa (up two places to 16th), Indonesia (up two places to 20th) and the United States of America (up four places to 31st) are among other teams to have made notable progress. Three teams have lost their place on the rankings table. Denmark and Belgium have not played any matches since October 2017 while Qatar have played fewer than the required six during the period. MRF Tyres ICC Women’s ODI Team Rankings (as of 2 October 2020, following the annual update): Rank Team Points Change Rank Change 1 Australia 160 (+8) 0 2 India 121 (-4) 0 3 England 119 (-4) 0 4 South Africa 107 (+6) +1 5 New Zealand 94 (-9) -1 6 West Indies 85 (+3) 0 7 Pakistan 77 (+4) 0 8 Bangladesh 61 (+7) + 1 9 Sri Lanka 47 (-8) -1 10 Ireland 13 (-5) 0 MRF Tyres ICC Women’s T20I Team Rankings (as of 2 October 2020, following the annual update): Rank Team Points Change Rank Change 1 Australia 291 0 0 2 England 280 0 0 3 India 270 5 1 4 NewZealand 269 -2 -1 5 SouthAfrica 249 3 0 6 WestIndies 236 -7 0 7 Pakistan 230 1 0 8 SriLanka 202 1 0 9 Bangladesh 192 0 0 10 Ireland 168 3 0

Australia Women remain No.1 in ODIs, T20Is after annual update

Tottenham boss Jose Mourinho took a swipe at Gareth Southgate on Thursday as he called the England manager 'Gary' and questioned his plans for Harry Kane.

Mourinho does not think Tottenham striker Kane should be involved in all three of England's forthcoming friendly against Wales and Nations League fixtures with Belgium and Denmark.

After a gruelling run of fixtures for Tottenham, which continued with a 7-2 win over Maccabi Haifa in the Europa League on Thursday, Mourinho fears Kane could be in danger of burnout.

Southgate recently said Mourinho must look after Kane in April and May with the European Championships around the corner.

With tongue in cheek, Southgate also pointed out that Mourinho had only namechecked England assistant coach Steve Holland as a friend in his comments.

Kane showed why both men want him to play every minute of every game with a hat-trick and an assist in the romp over Maccabi Haifa which booked Tottenham's place in the group stages.

But Mourinho used his interviews after the game to get the final word in, although he made a slip by calling the England boss 'Gary'.

"What I can promise to my friend Steve Holland and for Gary (sic) not to be jealous. For my friend Gary, I can promise that until the end of the season I don't play Harry Kane one minute of any friendly match," Mourinho said.

"His match was a fundamental match for us. A match that means a few million pounds and means that we are in a group phase of a competition that we have ambitions."

Tottenham boss Jose Mourinho took a swipe at Gareth Southgate on Thursday as he called the England manager 'Gary' and questioned his plans for Harry Kane. Mourinho does not think Tottenham striker Kane should be involved in all three of England's forthcoming friendly against Wales and Nations League fixtures with Belgium and Denmark.

Tottenham boss Jose Mourinho took a swipe at Gareth Southgate on Thursday as he called the England manager 'Gary' and questioned his plans for Harry Kane. Mourinho does not think Tottenham striker Kane should be involved in all three of England's forthcoming friendly against Wales and Nations League fixtures with Belgium and Denmark. After a gruelling run of fixtures for Tottenham, which continued with a 7-2 win over Maccabi Haifa in the Europa League on Thursday, Mourinho fears Kane could be in danger of burnout. Southgate recently said Mourinho must look after Kane in April and May with the European Championships around the corner. With tongue in cheek, Southgate also pointed out that Mourinho had only namechecked England assistant coach Steve Holland as a friend in his comments. Kane showed why both men want him to play every minute of every game with a hat-trick and an assist in the romp over Maccabi Haifa which booked Tottenham's place in the group stages. But Mourinho used his interviews after the game to get the final word in, although he made a slip by calling the England boss 'Gary'. "What I can promise to my friend Steve Holland and for Gary (sic) not to be jealous. For my friend Gary, I can promise that until the end of the season I don't play Harry Kane one minute of any friendly match," Mourinho said. "His match was a fundamental match for us. A match that means a few million pounds and means that we are in a group phase of a competition that we have ambitions."

Mourinho takes swipe at 'Gary' Southgate

Honda said Friday it will withdraw from Formula One at the end of the 2021 season as part of the car industry's move away from internal combustion engines.

The Red Bull and Alpha Tauri teams use power units made by the Japanese manufacturer.

Honda said it was pursuing "carbon neutrality by 2050" using "future power-unit and energy technologies, including fuel-cell vehicle and battery technologies".

Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner said: "The shifting focus within the automotive industry has led to Honda's decision to re-deploy their resources and we understand and respect the reasoning behind this.

"Their decision presents obvious challenges for us as a team but we have been here before and with our strength in depth we are well prepared and equipped to respond effectively, as we have proven in the past."

Honda returned to Formula One in 2015 but struggled for three years working with McLaren.

The company transferred its attention to Red Bull's junior team Toro Rosso for 2018 and then Red Bull for 2019, and have won a total of five races over the last two years.

Honda said Friday it will withdraw from Formula One at the end of the 2021 season as part of the car industry's move away from internal combustion engines. The Red Bull and Alpha Tauri teams use power units made by the Japanese manufacturer.

Honda said Friday it will withdraw from Formula One at the end of the 2021 season as part of the car industry's move away from internal combustion engines. The Red Bull and Alpha Tauri teams use power units made by the Japanese manufacturer. Honda said it was pursuing "carbon neutrality by 2050" using "future power-unit and energy technologies, including fuel-cell vehicle and battery technologies". Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner said: "The shifting focus within the automotive industry has led to Honda's decision to re-deploy their resources and we understand and respect the reasoning behind this. "Their decision presents obvious challenges for us as a team but we have been here before and with our strength in depth we are well prepared and equipped to respond effectively, as we have proven in the past." Honda returned to Formula One in 2015 but struggled for three years working with McLaren. The company transferred its attention to Red Bull's junior team Toro Rosso for 2018 and then Red Bull for 2019, and have won a total of five races over the last two years.

Honda to withdraw from Formula One at end of 2021 season

Mumbai Indians on Thursday defeated Kings XI Punjab at the Sheikh Abu Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi with the KL Rahul-led Punjab falling short of 48 runs in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a>. Mumbai Indians dominated the proceedings after Kieron Pollard and Hardik Pandya gave them the perfect finish with the willow in the first innings.&nbsp;

Courtesy a cracking half-century by Rohit Sharma and blistering knocks by Pollard (47* off 20) and Hardik (30* off 11), Mumbai Indians posted a mammoth 191-4 in 20 overs. Skipper Rohit went on to smash 70 off 45 after having a difficult start to his innings. However, Rohit, Pollard and Hardik took down the KXIP bowling unit to pile on the runs in the latter half of the first innings.&nbsp;

Chasing 192, Kings XI Punjab were off to a shaky start as they lost in-form Mayank Agarwal for 25 whereas Karun Nair, at no. 3, scored a three-ball duck to mount more pressure on the batters. KL Rahul soon followed suit after an uncanny 19-ball 17. While Nicholas Pooran launched two huge sixes and a couple of boundaries in his 27-ball 44 but it was too little too late for the Punjab outfit.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-robin-uthappa-seen-applying-saliva-on-ball-match-vs-kkr-331697" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Robin Uthappa seen applying saliva on ball match vs KKR</a>&nbsp;

Glenn Maxwell mostly struggled in his stay at the crease as he scored 18-ball 11 with Sarfaraz Khan and Jimmy Neesham also failing with the bat.

With the thumping win, Mumbai Indians get back to winning ways after losing two out of their three matches played so far and the Rohit Sharma-led MI would be hoping to carry forward the momentum in IPL 2020.&nbsp;

For Kings XI Punjab, they have now lost three matches in IPL 2020 after going down against Delhi Capitals in Super Over and against Rajasthan Royals in what was a record-chase in IPL.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-csk-ceo-gives-update-on-ambati-rayudu-and-dwayne-bravos-fitness-331418" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: CSK CEO gives update on Ambati Rayudu and Dwayne Bravo's fitness</a>

Mumbai Indians next play Sunrisers Hyderabad in Sharjah on Sunday whereas Kings XI Punjab face Chennai Super Kings in Dubai on the same day.&nbsp;

Mumbai Indians on Thursday defeated Kings XI Punjab at the Sheikh Abu Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi with the KL Rahul-led Punjab falling short of 48 runs in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020.

Mumbai Indians on Thursday defeated Kings XI Punjab at the Sheikh Abu Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi with the KL Rahul-led Punjab falling short of 48 runs in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020. Mumbai Indians dominated the proceedings after Kieron Pollard and Hardik Pandya gave them the perfect finish with the willow in the first innings. Courtesy a cracking half-century by Rohit Sharma and blistering knocks by Pollard (47* off 20) and Hardik (30* off 11), Mumbai Indians posted a mammoth 191-4 in 20 overs. Skipper Rohit went on to smash 70 off 45 after having a difficult start to his innings. However, Rohit, Pollard and Hardik took down the KXIP bowling unit to pile on the runs in the latter half of the first innings. Chasing 192, Kings XI Punjab were off to a shaky start as they lost in-form Mayank Agarwal for 25 whereas Karun Nair, at no. 3, scored a three-ball duck to mount more pressure on the batters. KL Rahul soon followed suit after an uncanny 19-ball 17. While Nicholas Pooran launched two huge sixes and a couple of boundaries in his 27-ball 44 but it was too little too late for the Punjab outfit. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Robin Uthappa seen applying saliva on ball match vs KKR Glenn Maxwell mostly struggled in his stay at the crease as he scored 18-ball 11 with Sarfaraz Khan and Jimmy Neesham also failing with the bat. With the thumping win, Mumbai Indians get back to winning ways after losing two out of their three matches played so far and the Rohit Sharma-led MI would be hoping to carry forward the momentum in IPL 2020. For Kings XI Punjab, they have now lost three matches in IPL 2020 after going down against Delhi Capitals in Super Over and against Rajasthan Royals in what was a record-chase in IPL. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: CSK CEO gives update on Ambati Rayudu and Dwayne Bravo's fitness Mumbai Indians next play Sunrisers Hyderabad in Sharjah on Sunday whereas Kings XI Punjab face Chennai Super Kings in Dubai on the same day.

IPL 2020: Mumbai Indians back to winning ways, defeat Kings XI Punjab by 48 runs

The draw for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/uefa-champions-league">UEFA Champions League 2020-21</a> was held on Thursday in Nyon, Switzerland as top teams from Europe found out their fate for the upcoming edition of UCL.

Apart from the Champions League 2020-21 draw, the UEFA awards were also announced as players were named the UEFA Defender, Midfielder, Forward and Player of the Year for the previous season.&nbsp;

Defending champions Bayern Munich were drawn in Group A as they will face the likes of Atletico Madrid, FC Salzburg and FC Lokomotiv Moscow.

However, the Group of Death was handed to Group H, where the likes of Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester United, RB Leipzig and Istanbul Baseksehir.

<h2>UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Draw in Full:</h2>

Group A: Bayern Munich, Atletico Madrid, FC Salzburg, FC Lokomotic Moscow

Group B: Real Madrid, Shakhtar Donestk, Inter Milan, Borussia Monchengladbach

Group C: FC Porto, Manchester City, Olympiacos FC, Olympique Marseille

Group D: Liverpool FC, Ajax, Atalanta,&nbsp;Midtyjlland

Group E: Sevilla FC, Chelsea FC, FC Krasnodar, Stade Rennes

Group F: FC Zenit St Petersburg, Borussia Dortmund, SS Lazio, Club Brugge

Group G: Juventus, FC Barcelona, FC Dynamo Kyiv, Ferencvarosi

Group H: Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester United, RB Leipzig, Istanbul Basaksehir

<h2>UEFA Awards in Full:</h2>

UEFA Goalkeeper of the Year: Manuel Neur

UEFA Defender of the Year: Joshua Kimmich

UEFA Midfielder of the Year: Kevin de Bruyne

UEFA Forward of the Year: Robert Lewandowski

Men's Coach of the Year: Hansi Flick

UEFA Player of the Year: Robert Lewandowski

&nbsp;

The draw for the UEFA Champions League 2020-21 was held on Thursday in Nyon, Switzerland as top teams from Europe found out their fate for the upcoming edition of UCL.

The draw for the UEFA Champions League 2020-21 was held on Thursday in Nyon, Switzerland as top teams from Europe found out their fate for the upcoming edition of UCL. Apart from the Champions League 2020-21 draw, the UEFA awards were also announced as players were named the UEFA Defender, Midfielder, Forward and Player of the Year for the previous season. Defending champions Bayern Munich were drawn in Group A as they will face the likes of Atletico Madrid, FC Salzburg and FC Lokomotiv Moscow. However, the Group of Death was handed to Group H, where the likes of Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester United, RB Leipzig and Istanbul Baseksehir. UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Draw in Full: Group A: Bayern Munich, Atletico Madrid, FC Salzburg, FC Lokomotic Moscow Group B: Real Madrid, Shakhtar Donestk, Inter Milan, Borussia Monchengladbach Group C: FC Porto, Manchester City, Olympiacos FC, Olympique Marseille Group D: Liverpool FC, Ajax, Atalanta, Midtyjlland Group E: Sevilla FC, Chelsea FC, FC Krasnodar, Stade Rennes Group F: FC Zenit St Petersburg, Borussia Dortmund, SS Lazio, Club Brugge Group G: Juventus, FC Barcelona, FC Dynamo Kyiv, Ferencvarosi Group H: Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester United, RB Leipzig, Istanbul Basaksehir UEFA Awards in Full: UEFA Goalkeeper of the Year: Manuel Neur UEFA Defender of the Year: Joshua Kimmich UEFA Midfielder of the Year: Kevin de Bruyne UEFA Forward of the Year: Robert Lewandowski Men's Coach of the Year: Hansi Flick UEFA Player of the Year: Robert Lewandowski

UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Draw: Man United, PSG get Group of Death; Lewandowski wins Player of the Year

Barcelona on Thursday confirmed the signing of Sergino Dest from Ajax with the 19-year-old USMNT international joining the Catalan club after a splendid Eredivisie 2019-20 season. Dest led Ajax to first place in Eredivisie 2019-20 before the Dutch top-flight league was declared null and void due to COVID-19 pandemic.

Barcelona locked horns with reigning German and European champions Bayern Munich but the Catalan club was successful in signing the young starlet. Earlier, it was reported that Bayern Munich had an agreement with Ajax for the signing of Dest but Barcelona were clever with their officials bid of €21 million (£19m/$25m) – higher than that of Bayern Munich – and agreed personal terms with Dest quickly.&nbsp;

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🇺🇸 The American Dream in Barcelona. 
🔵🔴 <a href="https://twitter.com/sergino_dest?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sergino_dest</a>, welcome to Barça! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DE2TCuler?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DE2TCuler</a> <a href="https://t.co/gq6avTiHq8">pic.twitter.com/gq6avTiHq8</a>
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/1311639933900206085?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2020</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-asking-for-changes-to-footballs-handball-law-331692" hreflang="en">Premier League asking for changes to football's handball law</a>

A statement from the Liga giants on their official website read: “FC Barcelona and Ajax have reached an agreement for the transfer of Sergiño Dest. The cost of the operation is 21 million euros plus a further five million in variables.

“The player will sign a contract for the next five seasons, through to the end of the 2024/25 season, with a buyout clause set at 400 million euros.

“Sergiño Dest combines many excellent qualities needed in a full back: attacking when called for, solid defensively, unruffled in possession and creative with it.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/madrid-miss-hazard-as-vinicius-sneaks-win-over-valladolid-331689" hreflang="en">Madrid miss Hazard as Vinicius sneaks win over Valladolid</a>

“The defender has the ability to take players on and his pace is a virtue going forward and defending. Those qualities will be on display from now on in a Barca shirt, a challenge for a fearless young full-back.”

Dest will look to make the right-back spot his own following the departure of Nelson Semedo to Wolves. 
&nbsp;

Barcelona on Thursday confirmed the signing of Sergino Dest from Ajax with the 19-year-old USMNT international joining the Catalan club after a splendid Eredivisie 2019-20 season.

Barcelona on Thursday confirmed the signing of Sergino Dest from Ajax with the 19-year-old USMNT international joining the Catalan club after a splendid Eredivisie 2019-20 season. Dest led Ajax to first place in Eredivisie 2019-20 before the Dutch top-flight league was declared null and void due to COVID-19 pandemic. Barcelona locked horns with reigning German and European champions Bayern Munich but the Catalan club was successful in signing the young starlet. Earlier, it was reported that Bayern Munich had an agreement with Ajax for the signing of Dest but Barcelona were clever with their officials bid of €21 million (£19m/$25m) – higher than that of Bayern Munich – and agreed personal terms with Dest quickly. 🇺🇸 The American Dream in Barcelona. 🔵🔴 @sergino_dest, welcome to Barça! #DE2TCuler pic.twitter.com/gq6avTiHq8 — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) October 1, 2020 × ALSO READ: Premier League asking for changes to football's handball law A statement from the Liga giants on their official website read: “FC Barcelona and Ajax have reached an agreement for the transfer of Sergiño Dest. The cost of the operation is 21 million euros plus a further five million in variables. “The player will sign a contract for the next five seasons, through to the end of the 2024/25 season, with a buyout clause set at 400 million euros. “Sergiño Dest combines many excellent qualities needed in a full back: attacking when called for, solid defensively, unruffled in possession and creative with it. ALSO READ: Madrid miss Hazard as Vinicius sneaks win over Valladolid “The defender has the ability to take players on and his pace is a virtue going forward and defending. Those qualities will be on display from now on in a Barca shirt, a challenge for a fearless young full-back.” Dest will look to make the right-back spot his own following the departure of Nelson Semedo to Wolves.

Barcelona sign USMNT full-back Sergino Dest from Ajax

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/uefa-champions-league">UEFA Champions League 2020-21 draw</a> is set to be held at Nyon, Switzerland on Thursday with top clubs from all across the Europe set to find their fate for the group stage. UEFA Champions League (IPL) 2020 fixtures are scheduled to kick-start from October 20.&nbsp;

Defending champions Bayern Munich, along with La Liga winners Real Madrid, Europa League winners Sevilla, Serie A winners Juventus and Premier League champions Liverpool along with Ligue 1 holders Paris Saint-Germain are placed in the Pot 1. Notably, teams in the same pot can’t be drawn in the same group.&nbsp;

Whereas the likes of Atletico Madrid, Manchester City, Manchester United, Shakhtar Donetsk, Borussia Dortmund and Chelsea are placed in the Pot 2.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-asking-for-changes-to-footballs-handball-law-331692" hreflang="en">Premier League asking for changes to football's handball law</a>

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🔹 Group stage draw | 17:00 CET 🔹 
 
Who are the top 3 teams to avoid!? 🧐<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCLdraw?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCLdraw</a> <a href="https://t.co/WPlbPRXyye">pic.twitter.com/WPlbPRXyye</a>
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChampionsLeague/status/1311621559304454144?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Here are the details of UCL 2020/21 pots:</h2>

<h2>Pot 1</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Bayern Munich</li>
	<li>Sevilla</li>
	<li>Real Madrid</li>
	<li>Liverpool</li>
	<li>Juventus</li>
	<li>Paris Saint-Germain</li>
	<li>Zenit</li>
	<li>Porto</li>
</ul>

Pot&nbsp;2

<ul>
	<li>Barcelona</li>
	<li>Atlético Madrid</li>
	<li>Manchester City</li>
	<li>Manchester United</li>
	<li>Shakhtar Donetsk</li>
	<li>Borussia Dortmund</li>
	<li>Chelsea</li>
	<li>Ajax</li>
</ul>

Pot 3

<ul>
	<li>Dynamo Kyiv</li>
	<li>RB Leipzig</li>
	<li>Red Bull Salzburg</li>
	<li>Inter</li>
	<li>Olympiacos</li>
	<li>Lazio</li>
	<li>Krasnodar</li>
	<li>Atalanta</li>
</ul>

Pot 4

<ul>
	<li>Lokomotiv Moscow</li>
	<li>Marseille</li>
	<li>Club Brugge</li>
	<li>Mönchengladbach</li>
	<li>İstanbul Başakşehir</li>
	<li>Rennes</li>
	<li>Ferencvaros</li>
	<li>FC Midtjylland</li>
</ul>

<h2>When will the UEFA Champions League Draw take place?</h2>

The UEFA Champions League Draw will start from 8.30 PM (IST) onwards.

<h2>Where will be the UEFA Champions League Draw held?</h2>

The UEFA Champions League Draw will be held at Nyon, Switzerland.

<h2>Where can the UEFA Champions League Draw be watched online?</h2>

The UEFA Champions League Draw will be streamed live via UEFA’s official website, Jio TV and Airtel TV.

<h2>Which channel will telecast the UEFA Champions League Draw on TV?</h2>

The UEFA Champions League Group Stage Draw will be aired live on the Sony Ten 2/HD. 
&nbsp;

The UEFA Champions League 2020-21 draw is set to be held at Nyon, Switzerland on Thursday with top clubs from all across the Europe set to find their fate for the group stage.

The UEFA Champions League 2020-21 draw is set to be held at Nyon, Switzerland on Thursday with top clubs from all across the Europe set to find their fate for the group stage. UEFA Champions League (IPL) 2020 fixtures are scheduled to kick-start from October 20. Defending champions Bayern Munich, along with La Liga winners Real Madrid, Europa League winners Sevilla, Serie A winners Juventus and Premier League champions Liverpool along with Ligue 1 holders Paris Saint-Germain are placed in the Pot 1. Notably, teams in the same pot can’t be drawn in the same group. Whereas the likes of Atletico Madrid, Manchester City, Manchester United, Shakhtar Donetsk, Borussia Dortmund and Chelsea are placed in the Pot 2. ALSO READ: Premier League asking for changes to football's handball law 🔹 Group stage draw | 17:00 CET 🔹 Who are the top 3 teams to avoid!? 🧐#UCLdraw pic.twitter.com/WPlbPRXyye — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) October 1, 2020 × Here are the details of UCL 2020/21 pots: Pot 1 Bayern Munich Sevilla Real Madrid Liverpool Juventus Paris Saint-Germain Zenit Porto Pot 2 Barcelona Atlético Madrid Manchester City Manchester United Shakhtar Donetsk Borussia Dortmund Chelsea Ajax Pot 3 Dynamo Kyiv RB Leipzig Red Bull Salzburg Inter Olympiacos Lazio Krasnodar Atalanta Pot 4 Lokomotiv Moscow Marseille Club Brugge Mönchengladbach İstanbul Başakşehir Rennes Ferencvaros FC Midtjylland When will the UEFA Champions League Draw take place? The UEFA Champions League Draw will start from 8.30 PM (IST) onwards. Where will be the UEFA Champions League Draw held? The UEFA Champions League Draw will be held at Nyon, Switzerland. Where can the UEFA Champions League Draw be watched online? The UEFA Champions League Draw will be streamed live via UEFA’s official website, Jio TV and Airtel TV. Which channel will telecast the UEFA Champions League Draw on TV? The UEFA Champions League Group Stage Draw will be aired live on the Sony Ten 2/HD.

UEFA Champions League Draw: Live streaming, telecast, pots, timings and more

Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) will take on Mumbai Indians (MI) on Thursday at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi with the action continuing in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020. Both KXIP and MI are coming on the back of crushing defeats in their previous encounters and would look to get back to winning ways when they take the field on Thursday.

While KXIP lost to RR in what was a record chase by the latter, MI were defeated by RCB in Super Over thriller. Both the teams have some world-class names at their helm and would hope that the big guns fire all cylinders.&nbsp;

Given the longer boundaries in Abu Dhabi, a score of 170 is being looked as competitive.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-kxip-vs-mi-preview-battle-of-superstar-laden-teams-in-abu-dhabi-331721" hreflang="en">IPL 2020, KXIP vs MI Preview: Battle of superstar-laden teams in Abu Dhabi</a>

<h2>Where will the IPL 2020 match between Kings XI Punjab vs Mumbai Indians take place?</h2>

The IPL 2020 match between Kings XI Punjab vs Mumbai Indians will take place at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi.

<h2>What time will the IPL 2020 match between Kings XI Punjab vs Mumbai Indians begin?</h2>

The IPL 2020 match between Kings XI Punjab vs Mumbai Indians at 7:30 PM IST on Thursday (October 1).

<h2>How to watch live IPL 2020 match between Kings XI Punjab vs Mumbai Indians begin?</h2>

The IPL 2020 match between Kings XI Punjab vs Mumbai Indians will be aired live on Star Sports channels. Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 3 and Star Sports 3 HD.

<h2>How to watch IPL 2020 match between Kings XI Punjab vs Mumbai Indians match online?</h2>

The online live streaming of the IPL 2020 match between Kings XI Punjab vs Mumbai Indians will be available at Hotstar. You can also latest updates of the IPL 2020 match between Kings XI Punjab vs Mumbai Indians match at WION. 
&nbsp;

Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) will take on Mumbai Indians (MI) on Thursday at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi with the action continuing in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020.

Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) will take on Mumbai Indians (MI) on Thursday at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi with the action continuing in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020. Both KXIP and MI are coming on the back of crushing defeats in their previous encounters and would look to get back to winning ways when they take the field on Thursday. While KXIP lost to RR in what was a record chase by the latter, MI were defeated by RCB in Super Over thriller. Both the teams have some world-class names at their helm and would hope that the big guns fire all cylinders. Given the longer boundaries in Abu Dhabi, a score of 170 is being looked as competitive. ALSO READ: IPL 2020, KXIP vs MI Preview: Battle of superstar-laden teams in Abu Dhabi Where will the IPL 2020 match between Kings XI Punjab vs Mumbai Indians take place? The IPL 2020 match between Kings XI Punjab vs Mumbai Indians will take place at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi. What time will the IPL 2020 match between Kings XI Punjab vs Mumbai Indians begin? The IPL 2020 match between Kings XI Punjab vs Mumbai Indians at 7:30 PM IST on Thursday (October 1). How to watch live IPL 2020 match between Kings XI Punjab vs Mumbai Indians begin? The IPL 2020 match between Kings XI Punjab vs Mumbai Indians will be aired live on Star Sports channels. Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 3 and Star Sports 3 HD. How to watch IPL 2020 match between Kings XI Punjab vs Mumbai Indians match online? The online live streaming of the IPL 2020 match between Kings XI Punjab vs Mumbai Indians will be available at Hotstar. You can also latest updates of the IPL 2020 match between Kings XI Punjab vs Mumbai Indians match at WION.

KXIP vs MI, IPL 2020 Live Streaming: When and where to watch Kings XI Punjab and Mumbai Indians?

Kings XI Punjab take on defending champions Mumbai Indians at the Sheikh Abu Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi in what promises to be a thrilling contest in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a> on Thursday. Both KXIP and MI are coming into the match on the back of crushing defeats and would be looking to get back to winning ways.&nbsp;

While KXIP lost their previous encounter against Rajasthan Royals, Mumbai Indians were defeated by Royal Challengers Bangalore in Super Over. However, both team possess some world-class names in their squad and could turn the tournament if they get going.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-kxip-will-have-to-bring-their-a-game-against-mumbai-indians-says-anil-kumble-331713" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: KXIP will have to bring their 'A' game against Mumbai Indians, says Anil Kumble</a>

<h2>KXIP vs MI: Head-to-head stats</h2>

Talking about head-to-head stats between KXIP and MI, the latter have won 13 matches in comparison to Punjab’s 11 wins in last 24 encounters. In the last five matches, Mumbai Indians have edged out Kings XI Punjab in three games while the remaining two have been won by the latter.

Statistic wise, KL Rahul is just 14 runs away from reaching 500 IPL runs against Mumbai Indians. And for Rohit Sharma, the Hitman needs two runs to complete 5000 IPL runs.

Mumbai Indians are expected to go with the same playing XI but Kings XI Punjab might bring in Mujeeb-ur-Rehman in place of Sheldon Cottrell which might open a spot for a domestic pacer to partner Mohammed Shami.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-robin-uthappa-seen-applying-saliva-on-ball-match-vs-kkr-331697" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Robin Uthappa seen applying saliva on ball match vs KKR</a>

A score of 170 is looked as a competitive total for the team batting first in Abu Dhabi.

<h2>KXIP vs MI: Squads:</h2>

Kings XI Punjab Squad: Lokesh Rahul(w/c), Mayank Agarwal, Glenn Maxwell, Nicholas Pooran, Karun Nair, James Neesham, Sarfaraz Khan, Murugan Ashwin, Mohammed Shami, Sheldon Cottrell, Ravi Bishnoi, Chris Gayle, Mandeep Singh, Chris Jordan, Krishnappa Gowtham, Deepak Hooda, Hardus Viljoen, Jagadeesha Suchith, Ishan Porel, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Tajinder Singh, Darshan Nalkande, Arshdeep Singh, Simran Singh, Harpreet Brar

Mumbai Indians Squad: Rohit Sharma(c), Quinton de Kock(w), Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Kieron Pollard, Krunal Pandya, James Pattinson, Rahul Chahar, Trent Boult, Jasprit Bumrah, Chris Lynn, Saurabh Tiwary, Dhawal Kulkarni, Mitchell McClenaghan, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Sherfane Rutherford, Jayant Yadav, Aditya Tare, Anmolpreet Singh, Anukul Roy, Mohsin Khan, Digvijay Deshmukh, Prince Balwant Rai

Kings XI Punjab take on defending champions Mumbai Indians at the Sheikh Abu Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi in what promises to be a thrilling contest in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 on Thursday.

Kings XI Punjab take on defending champions Mumbai Indians at the Sheikh Abu Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi in what promises to be a thrilling contest in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 on Thursday. Both KXIP and MI are coming into the match on the back of crushing defeats and would be looking to get back to winning ways. While KXIP lost their previous encounter against Rajasthan Royals, Mumbai Indians were defeated by Royal Challengers Bangalore in Super Over. However, both team possess some world-class names in their squad and could turn the tournament if they get going. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: KXIP will have to bring their 'A' game against Mumbai Indians, says Anil Kumble KXIP vs MI: Head-to-head stats Talking about head-to-head stats between KXIP and MI, the latter have won 13 matches in comparison to Punjab’s 11 wins in last 24 encounters. In the last five matches, Mumbai Indians have edged out Kings XI Punjab in three games while the remaining two have been won by the latter. Statistic wise, KL Rahul is just 14 runs away from reaching 500 IPL runs against Mumbai Indians. And for Rohit Sharma, the Hitman needs two runs to complete 5000 IPL runs. Mumbai Indians are expected to go with the same playing XI but Kings XI Punjab might bring in Mujeeb-ur-Rehman in place of Sheldon Cottrell which might open a spot for a domestic pacer to partner Mohammed Shami. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Robin Uthappa seen applying saliva on ball match vs KKR A score of 170 is looked as a competitive total for the team batting first in Abu Dhabi. KXIP vs MI: Squads: Kings XI Punjab Squad: Lokesh Rahul(w/c), Mayank Agarwal, Glenn Maxwell, Nicholas Pooran, Karun Nair, James Neesham, Sarfaraz Khan, Murugan Ashwin, Mohammed Shami, Sheldon Cottrell, Ravi Bishnoi, Chris Gayle, Mandeep Singh, Chris Jordan, Krishnappa Gowtham, Deepak Hooda, Hardus Viljoen, Jagadeesha Suchith, Ishan Porel, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Tajinder Singh, Darshan Nalkande, Arshdeep Singh, Simran Singh, Harpreet Brar Mumbai Indians Squad: Rohit Sharma(c), Quinton de Kock(w), Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Kieron Pollard, Krunal Pandya, James Pattinson, Rahul Chahar, Trent Boult, Jasprit Bumrah, Chris Lynn, Saurabh Tiwary, Dhawal Kulkarni, Mitchell McClenaghan, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Sherfane Rutherford, Jayant Yadav, Aditya Tare, Anmolpreet Singh, Anukul Roy, Mohsin Khan, Digvijay Deshmukh, Prince Balwant Rai

IPL 2020, KXIP vs MI Preview: Battle of superstar-laden teams in Abu Dhabi

Mumbai Indians take on Kings XI Punjab at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Thursday as the action in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a> continues. Ahead of the much-awaited match between KXIP and MI, Kings XI Punjab head coach Anil Kumble has said that they will have to bring their “A” game against the defending champions.

Kumble, talking about KXIP’s match against MI, said that Abu Dhabi is a new venue for the Punjab outfit while praising Mumbai Indians for being a “very settled team”. The former Indian skipper lavished praise on KXIP squad as he said that they have been consistent in the last three games and want to carry forward the momentum against MI.

"We need to assess the conditions, we are entering Abu Dhabi which is a new venue for us. Having said that, Mumbai is a very strong team, we know that. They are a very settled team, they have been playing the same XI, almost the same XI for the last couple of years," said Kumble in a video posted on the official Twitter handle of KXIP.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-robin-uthappa-seen-applying-saliva-on-ball-match-vs-kkr-331697">IPL 2020: Robin Uthappa seen applying saliva on ball match vs KKR</a>

"We know their strengths and we will have to bring our 'A' game against them. I am really happy with our last three games for the way we have been consistent, so looking forward to that kind of effort again in Abu Dhabi," he added.

KXIP have lost two while winning one of their three matches so far in IPL 2020. While KXIP lost to DC in the nail-biting Super Over, Rajasthan Royals chased down a mammoth 224 with three balls to spare.

Accessing the conditions in Abu Dhabi, Kumble opined that it will be different from Sharjah and the team will need to adapt to the conditions quickly.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-kolkata-knight-riders-end-rajasthan-royals-unbeaten-run-win-by-37-runs-331569" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Kolkata Knight Riders end Rajasthan Royal's unbeaten run</a>

"It's new ground, the boundaries are bigger so it is not going to be easy to hit sixes like how it was in Sharjah. But having said that, we will have to assess conditions and adapt," said Kumble.

Meanwhile, MI have also won just one match in the IPL 2020 so far. Currently, Punjab and Mumbai are placed at the fifth and sixth positions in the IPL standings. 
&nbsp;

Mumbai Indians take on Kings XI Punjab at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Thursday as the action in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 continues. Ahead of the much-awaited match between KXIP and MI, Kings XI Punjab head coach Anil Kumble has said that they will have to bring their “A” game against the defending champions.

Mumbai Indians take on Kings XI Punjab at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Thursday as the action in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 continues. Ahead of the much-awaited match between KXIP and MI, Kings XI Punjab head coach Anil Kumble has said that they will have to bring their “A” game against the defending champions. Kumble, talking about KXIP’s match against MI, said that Abu Dhabi is a new venue for the Punjab outfit while praising Mumbai Indians for being a “very settled team”. The former Indian skipper lavished praise on KXIP squad as he said that they have been consistent in the last three games and want to carry forward the momentum against MI. "We need to assess the conditions, we are entering Abu Dhabi which is a new venue for us. Having said that, Mumbai is a very strong team, we know that. They are a very settled team, they have been playing the same XI, almost the same XI for the last couple of years," said Kumble in a video posted on the official Twitter handle of KXIP. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Robin Uthappa seen applying saliva on ball match vs KKR "We know their strengths and we will have to bring our 'A' game against them. I am really happy with our last three games for the way we have been consistent, so looking forward to that kind of effort again in Abu Dhabi," he added. KXIP have lost two while winning one of their three matches so far in IPL 2020. While KXIP lost to DC in the nail-biting Super Over, Rajasthan Royals chased down a mammoth 224 with three balls to spare. Accessing the conditions in Abu Dhabi, Kumble opined that it will be different from Sharjah and the team will need to adapt to the conditions quickly. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Kolkata Knight Riders end Rajasthan Royal's unbeaten run "It's new ground, the boundaries are bigger so it is not going to be easy to hit sixes like how it was in Sharjah. But having said that, we will have to assess conditions and adapt," said Kumble. Meanwhile, MI have also won just one match in the IPL 2020 so far. Currently, Punjab and Mumbai are placed at the fifth and sixth positions in the IPL standings.

IPL 2020: KXIP will have to bring their 'A' game against Mumbai Indians, says Anil Kumble

Veteran Indian and Rajasthan Royals batsman Robin Uthappa was spotted applying saliva on the ball in what comes as a violation of the ICC COVID-19 protocol during <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a> match against Kolkata Knight Riders on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Kolkata Knight Riders were invited to bat first after Steve Smith won the toss. Early in the innings, Sunil Narine skied a ball towards Robin Uthappa as the RR fielder, placed at mid-on, dropped the catch and then was seen applying saliva on the ball. The video of the incident, which took place in the fifth delivery of the third over, has gone viral on social media. It could be a natural human error but should have been reported to the umpires so that the ball could be sanitized properly before the resumption of play.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-kolkata-knight-riders-end-rajasthan-royals-unbeaten-run-win-by-37-runs-331569" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Kolkata Knight Riders end Rajasthan Royal's unbeaten run, win by 37 runs</a>

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Robin Uthappa just used saliva on the cricket ball. Is it not banned by <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ICC</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RRvKKR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RRvKKR</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2020</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/bhogleharsha?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@bhogleharsha</a> <a href="https://t.co/EWilsl9Z01">pic.twitter.com/EWilsl9Z01</a>
— बेरोज़गार (@ItsRaviMaurya) <a href="https://twitter.com/ItsRaviMaurya/status/1311308712670195713?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The IPL has not issued any official statement on the incident so far. Even Shivam Dube has been spotted applying saliva on the ball in one of the Royal Challengers Bangalore matches but no statement came from the IPL regarding that.

The ICC had banned the usage of saliva to shine the ball amid the COVID-19 pandemic in June 2020.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/simon-doull-backs-kkr-star-shubman-gill-to-lead-an-ipl-side-in-two-years-331464" hreflang="en">Simon Doull backs KKR star Shubman Gill to lead an IPL side in two years</a>

"If a player does apply saliva to the ball, the umpires will manage the situation with some leniency during an initial period of adjustment for the players, but subsequent instances will result in the team receiving a warning," it had stated in its Standard Operating Procedure for the game.

"A team can be issued up to two warnings per innings but repeated use of saliva on the ball will result in a 5-run penalty to the batting side. Whenever saliva is applied to the ball, the umpires will be instructed to clean the ball before play recommenced," the ICC notification read.

Meanwhile, Kolkata Knight Riders defeated Rajasthan Royals by 37 runs to clinch their second victory on the bounce. This was RR’s first defeat in IPL 2020. 
&nbsp;

Veteran Indian and Rajasthan Royals batsman Robin Uthappa was spotted applying saliva on the ball in what comes as a violation of the ICC COVID-19 protocol during Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 match against Kolkata Knight Riders on Wednesday.

Veteran Indian and Rajasthan Royals batsman Robin Uthappa was spotted applying saliva on the ball in what comes as a violation of the ICC COVID-19 protocol during Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 match against Kolkata Knight Riders on Wednesday. Kolkata Knight Riders were invited to bat first after Steve Smith won the toss. Early in the innings, Sunil Narine skied a ball towards Robin Uthappa as the RR fielder, placed at mid-on, dropped the catch and then was seen applying saliva on the ball. The video of the incident, which took place in the fifth delivery of the third over, has gone viral on social media. It could be a natural human error but should have been reported to the umpires so that the ball could be sanitized properly before the resumption of play. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Kolkata Knight Riders end Rajasthan Royal's unbeaten run, win by 37 runs Robin Uthappa just used saliva on the cricket ball. Is it not banned by @ICC#RRvKKR#IPL2020 @bhogleharsha pic.twitter.com/EWilsl9Z01 — बेरोज़गार (@ItsRaviMaurya) September 30, 2020 × The IPL has not issued any official statement on the incident so far. Even Shivam Dube has been spotted applying saliva on the ball in one of the Royal Challengers Bangalore matches but no statement came from the IPL regarding that. The ICC had banned the usage of saliva to shine the ball amid the COVID-19 pandemic in June 2020. ALSO READ: Simon Doull backs KKR star Shubman Gill to lead an IPL side in two years "If a player does apply saliva to the ball, the umpires will manage the situation with some leniency during an initial period of adjustment for the players, but subsequent instances will result in the team receiving a warning," it had stated in its Standard Operating Procedure for the game. "A team can be issued up to two warnings per innings but repeated use of saliva on the ball will result in a 5-run penalty to the batting side. Whenever saliva is applied to the ball, the umpires will be instructed to clean the ball before play recommenced," the ICC notification read. Meanwhile, Kolkata Knight Riders defeated Rajasthan Royals by 37 runs to clinch their second victory on the bounce. This was RR’s first defeat in IPL 2020.

IPL 2020: Robin Uthappa seen applying saliva on ball match vs KKR

The Premier League is asking football's lawmakers to allow more flexibility and leniency for referees assessing handballs after being told by players and managers that the current regulations are too harsh.

England's top division has fielded complaints after a number of incidents in the opening rounds of the season, including that Eric Dier should not have conceded a penalty for Tottenham against Newcastle on Sunday when a ball came off his outstretched, raised arm.

Despite facing away from the ball, Dier was penalized because his arm was adjudged to be in an unnatural position after jumping to challenge Andy Carroll for the ball.

The penalty,&nbsp;&nbsp;awarded after a VAR review,&nbsp;allowed Callum Wilson to score and secure a 1-1 draw for Newcastle in stoppage time at Tottenham.

"You cannot jump without your hands," Dier told the BBC.

"You cannot defend without using your arms to balance and move so it is what it is."

Premier League referees, though, have to abide by the laws of the game formulated by the International Football Association Board. There is, however, English influence on the panel that first met in the 19th century. The home nations in the United Kingdom -- England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales -- have half of the votes and world governing body FIFA has the other four.

A clarification to the handball law in 2019 stated that hands or arms cannot make a players' "body unnaturally bigger".

The Premier League's Professional Game Match Officials body hopes the Laws of the Game could be updated and will ask IFAB for greater latitude.

Six of the 20 penalties awarded in the opening three rounds of the season have been for handball.

The Premier League has already responded to criticism by encouraging referees to soften their interpretation of handballs while still working within the spirit of the Laws of the Game.

According to a presentation shared within the Premier League, referees have now been told to consider the expected position of the arm,&nbsp;rather than just being outside the body line,&nbsp;when determining whether a handball should be penalised.

"Where the arms are clearly used for balance and/or protection," the presentation slide states, "it is less likely to be penalized."

That is also the case "where it is clear the player does not have the ability to react" and when the arm does not clearly block a direct shot.

The Premier League's interpretation of the law should also see players not penalized if:&nbsp;the "ball travels from close proximity where the player has a limited opportunity to respond." -&nbsp;the "player falls and the hand/arm is between the body and the ground to support the body, but not extended laterally or vertically away from the body."

Based on the Premier League's revised guidance for referees to interpret the laws, Victor Lindelof would not have conceded a penalty for Manchester United in a loss to Crystal Palace this month because his arm was in a natural running position.

The Premier League is asking football's lawmakers to allow more flexibility and leniency for referees assessing handballs after being told by players and managers that the current regulations are too harsh.

The Premier League is asking football's lawmakers to allow more flexibility and leniency for referees assessing handballs after being told by players and managers that the current regulations are too harsh. England's top division has fielded complaints after a number of incidents in the opening rounds of the season, including that Eric Dier should not have conceded a penalty for Tottenham against Newcastle on Sunday when a ball came off his outstretched, raised arm. Despite facing away from the ball, Dier was penalized because his arm was adjudged to be in an unnatural position after jumping to challenge Andy Carroll for the ball. The penalty, awarded after a VAR review, allowed Callum Wilson to score and secure a 1-1 draw for Newcastle in stoppage time at Tottenham. "You cannot jump without your hands," Dier told the BBC. "You cannot defend without using your arms to balance and move so it is what it is." Premier League referees, though, have to abide by the laws of the game formulated by the International Football Association Board. There is, however, English influence on the panel that first met in the 19th century. The home nations in the United Kingdom -- England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales -- have half of the votes and world governing body FIFA has the other four. A clarification to the handball law in 2019 stated that hands or arms cannot make a players' "body unnaturally bigger". The Premier League's Professional Game Match Officials body hopes the Laws of the Game could be updated and will ask IFAB for greater latitude. Six of the 20 penalties awarded in the opening three rounds of the season have been for handball. The Premier League has already responded to criticism by encouraging referees to soften their interpretation of handballs while still working within the spirit of the Laws of the Game. According to a presentation shared within the Premier League, referees have now been told to consider the expected position of the arm, rather than just being outside the body line, when determining whether a handball should be penalised. "Where the arms are clearly used for balance and/or protection," the presentation slide states, "it is less likely to be penalized." That is also the case "where it is clear the player does not have the ability to react" and when the arm does not clearly block a direct shot. The Premier League's interpretation of the law should also see players not penalized if: the "ball travels from close proximity where the player has a limited opportunity to respond." - the "player falls and the hand/arm is between the body and the ground to support the body, but not extended laterally or vertically away from the body." Based on the Premier League's revised guidance for referees to interpret the laws, Victor Lindelof would not have conceded a penalty for Manchester United in a loss to Crystal Palace this month because his arm was in a natural running position.

Premier League asking for changes to football's handball law

Bayern Munich claimed their fifth title of the year on Wednesday as a late Joshua Kimmich goal sealed their 3-2 win over Borussia Dortmund to land the German Super Cup.&nbsp;

Hosts Bayern built a 2-0 lead with first-half goals by Corentin Tolisso and Thomas Mueller, only for Erling Braut Haaland to equalise early in the second half after Julian Brandt pulled a Dortmund goal back just before the break.

However, Kimmich settled the matter through sheer determination behind closed doors at the Allianz Arena.

His initial shot was saved by Dortmund goalkeeper Marwin Hitz but the rebound clipped Kimmich's boot and looped in for the winning goal eight minutes from time.

"Joshua is a classy player. The way he chipped that ball in," said Bayern captain Manuel Neuer in admiration.

Having had their record 23-match winning streak ended by a shock defeat at Hoffenheim on Sunday, Bayern bounced back with Kimmich leading the charge.

"As long as I have known him (Kimmich), his mentality is very special.&nbsp;He is well on his way to being one of those players who shape this club," Bayern head coach Hansi Flick told broadcaster ZDF.

Bayern have already won an eighth-straight Bundesliga title, the German Cup, Champions League and the UEFA Super Cup this year.

This is the fourth time in five years they have won the showcase match.

<h2>- Sancho missing -</h2>

Dortmund goalkeeper Roman Buerki and England winger Jadon Sancho missed the flight to Munich with "a respiratory infection", the club said, but both tested negative on Monday for Covid-19.

Flick made five changes from the side which lost 4-1 at Hoffenheim.

Leroy Sane was sidelined by a knee injury, Leon Goretzka rested and Segre Gnabry started on the bench.

Canadian left-back Alphonso Davies moved up to the wing and Tolisso started in central midfield.

The Frenchman gave Bayern the lead when Robert Lewandowski put in a short cross from the right wing and Tolisso side-footed home on 18 minutes.

Mueller grabbed Bayern's second when he headed home after Davies floated in a cross on 32 minutes.

Brandt put Dortmund back in the game five minutes before the break when Benjamin Pavard's loose pass was snapped up by Marco Reus and Brandt finished the move.

It was 2-1 at the break, but Dortmund defender Thomas Meunier fired a golden chance over the bar early in the second half with just Manuel Neuer to beat.

Dortmund drew level when central midfielder Thomas Delaney slid a great pass into Haaland, who showed ice cool finishing to fire past Neuer on 55 minutes.

It was the 20-year-old's 19th goal in 22 games for Dortmund.

With time running out, Kimmich robbed Delaney of possession near the halfway line and sprinted clear with Lewandowski in support.

The pair exchanged passes and although Hitz saved the inital shot, the rebound looped over his head into the Dortmund goal after clipping Kimmich's boot.

The Super Cup was the final game for Bundesliga referee Bibiana Steinhaus, 41, the first female to officiate in one of Europe's top leagues, before retirement.&nbsp;

Bayern Munich claimed their fifth title of the year on Wednesday as a late Joshua Kimmich goal sealed their 3-2 win over Borussia Dortmund to land the German Super Cup.

Bayern Munich claimed their fifth title of the year on Wednesday as a late Joshua Kimmich goal sealed their 3-2 win over Borussia Dortmund to land the German Super Cup. Hosts Bayern built a 2-0 lead with first-half goals by Corentin Tolisso and Thomas Mueller, only for Erling Braut Haaland to equalise early in the second half after Julian Brandt pulled a Dortmund goal back just before the break. However, Kimmich settled the matter through sheer determination behind closed doors at the Allianz Arena. His initial shot was saved by Dortmund goalkeeper Marwin Hitz but the rebound clipped Kimmich's boot and looped in for the winning goal eight minutes from time. "Joshua is a classy player. The way he chipped that ball in," said Bayern captain Manuel Neuer in admiration. Having had their record 23-match winning streak ended by a shock defeat at Hoffenheim on Sunday, Bayern bounced back with Kimmich leading the charge. "As long as I have known him (Kimmich), his mentality is very special. He is well on his way to being one of those players who shape this club," Bayern head coach Hansi Flick told broadcaster ZDF. Bayern have already won an eighth-straight Bundesliga title, the German Cup, Champions League and the UEFA Super Cup this year. This is the fourth time in five years they have won the showcase match. - Sancho missing - Dortmund goalkeeper Roman Buerki and England winger Jadon Sancho missed the flight to Munich with "a respiratory infection", the club said, but both tested negative on Monday for Covid-19. Flick made five changes from the side which lost 4-1 at Hoffenheim. Leroy Sane was sidelined by a knee injury, Leon Goretzka rested and Segre Gnabry started on the bench. Canadian left-back Alphonso Davies moved up to the wing and Tolisso started in central midfield. The Frenchman gave Bayern the lead when Robert Lewandowski put in a short cross from the right wing and Tolisso side-footed home on 18 minutes. Mueller grabbed Bayern's second when he headed home after Davies floated in a cross on 32 minutes. Brandt put Dortmund back in the game five minutes before the break when Benjamin Pavard's loose pass was snapped up by Marco Reus and Brandt finished the move. It was 2-1 at the break, but Dortmund defender Thomas Meunier fired a golden chance over the bar early in the second half with just Manuel Neuer to beat. Dortmund drew level when central midfielder Thomas Delaney slid a great pass into Haaland, who showed ice cool finishing to fire past Neuer on 55 minutes. It was the 20-year-old's 19th goal in 22 games for Dortmund. With time running out, Kimmich robbed Delaney of possession near the halfway line and sprinted clear with Lewandowski in support. The pair exchanged passes and although Hitz saved the inital shot, the rebound looped over his head into the Dortmund goal after clipping Kimmich's boot. The Super Cup was the final game for Bundesliga referee Bibiana Steinhaus, 41, the first female to officiate in one of Europe's top leagues, before retirement.

Bayern win German Super Cup to lift fifth title in 2020

Pep Guardiola admitted it was vital to keep a clean-sheet as League Cup holders Manchester City got back on track with a 3-0 win against Burnley, while Manchester United joined their rivals in the quarter-finals after beating Brighton 3-0 on Wednesday.

Guardiola's side suffered their heaviest home Premier League loss under the Spaniard on Sunday when Leicester handed them a humiliating 5-2 defeat.

A brace from Raheem Sterling at Turf Moor ensured they washed away some of that bitter taste from that defeat and Spanish forward Ferran Torres, a close-season signing from Valencia, added City's third goal with his first for the club.

"It was important we didn't concede and the team was good in general," Guardiola said.

"When you lose a game the most important thing is the next one. Firstly, because if you lose in this competition, you're out.

"We are still far away from our best because we're not training much. We have a lot of players out, six because of Covid and four injuries.

"But step by step when we have all the squad we will get better. We are in the quarter-finals of this competition again so it's good."

City have won the League Cup four times in the last five seasons and they remain on course to retain the trophy.

Guardiola's men would have won by an even bigger scoreline but for a fine display from Burnley keeper Bailey Peacock-Farrell.

Sterling and Kevin De Bruyne both started in a strong City side that also included Riyad Mahrez and a debut for 18-year-old midfielder Cole Palmer.

Sterling made the breakthrough 10 minutes before the interval with a powerful strike from Benjamin Mendy's cross.

The City forward doubled his tally on 49 minutes, finishing off a good move involving De Bruyne and Torres.

City put the result beyond doubt in the 65th minute when Sterling failed to control a Mahrez pass and the ball ran through for the 20-year-old Torres to slam past Peacock-Farrell.

<h2>- 'Never surprised' -</h2>

At the Amex Stadium, Manchester United inflicted more misery on Brighton four days after beating them 3-2 in a dramatic Premier League game.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side needed a 100th minute Bruno Fernandes penalty to see off Albion on that occasion and conceding an equaliser moments early.

There was less drama this time as United made 10 changes and Brighton nine, with Solskjaer's stand-ins proving far superior.

United, who last won the League Cup in 2017, took the lead in the 44th minute when Scott McTominay headed home from Juan Mata's free-kick.

United doubled their advantage in the 73rd minute, with Donny Van De Beek finding Spanish midfielder Mata, who showed slotted home his 50th goal for the club.

Paul Pogba came off the bench to score seven minutes later when his free-kick curled in via a deflection off Brighton's Joel Veltman.

"A great performance by Juan Mata. He was the one who got on the ball and calmed us down. He was composed. He more or less creates the first goal himself. I am never surprised when he plays like this," Solskjaer said.

"We needed the first 20-25 minutes to get our confidence and get on the ball. We have worked on set pieces. You keep a clean sheet and this is important for a back four."

Dominic Calvert-Lewin hit a hat-trick as Everton thrashed West Ham 4-1, but the win was overshadowed by injuries to the Toffees' Brazilian stars Richarlison and Allan.

Calvert-Lewin put Everton ahead with his sixth goal of the season after 11 minutes after Goodison Park.

Carlo Ancelotti's side, who have won six consecutive matches in all competitions this season, were pegged back by Robert Snodgrass's 46th minute equaliser.

Richarlison restored Everton's lead 10 minutes later before Calvert-Lewin bagged his second treble already this season with goals in the 78th and 84th minute.

Newcastle survived a scare from fourth tier Newport before reaching the last eight with a 5-4 penalty shoot-out win after their 1-1 draw.

Pep Guardiola admitted it was vital to keep a clean-sheet as League Cup holders Manchester City got back on track with a 3-0 win against Burnley, while Manchester United joined their rivals in the quarter-finals after beating Brighton 3-0 on Wednesday.

Pep Guardiola admitted it was vital to keep a clean-sheet as League Cup holders Manchester City got back on track with a 3-0 win against Burnley, while Manchester United joined their rivals in the quarter-finals after beating Brighton 3-0 on Wednesday. Guardiola's side suffered their heaviest home Premier League loss under the Spaniard on Sunday when Leicester handed them a humiliating 5-2 defeat. A brace from Raheem Sterling at Turf Moor ensured they washed away some of that bitter taste from that defeat and Spanish forward Ferran Torres, a close-season signing from Valencia, added City's third goal with his first for the club. "It was important we didn't concede and the team was good in general," Guardiola said. "When you lose a game the most important thing is the next one. Firstly, because if you lose in this competition, you're out. "We are still far away from our best because we're not training much. We have a lot of players out, six because of Covid and four injuries. "But step by step when we have all the squad we will get better. We are in the quarter-finals of this competition again so it's good." City have won the League Cup four times in the last five seasons and they remain on course to retain the trophy. Guardiola's men would have won by an even bigger scoreline but for a fine display from Burnley keeper Bailey Peacock-Farrell. Sterling and Kevin De Bruyne both started in a strong City side that also included Riyad Mahrez and a debut for 18-year-old midfielder Cole Palmer. Sterling made the breakthrough 10 minutes before the interval with a powerful strike from Benjamin Mendy's cross. The City forward doubled his tally on 49 minutes, finishing off a good move involving De Bruyne and Torres. City put the result beyond doubt in the 65th minute when Sterling failed to control a Mahrez pass and the ball ran through for the 20-year-old Torres to slam past Peacock-Farrell. - 'Never surprised' - At the Amex Stadium, Manchester United inflicted more misery on Brighton four days after beating them 3-2 in a dramatic Premier League game. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side needed a 100th minute Bruno Fernandes penalty to see off Albion on that occasion and conceding an equaliser moments early. There was less drama this time as United made 10 changes and Brighton nine, with Solskjaer's stand-ins proving far superior. United, who last won the League Cup in 2017, took the lead in the 44th minute when Scott McTominay headed home from Juan Mata's free-kick. United doubled their advantage in the 73rd minute, with Donny Van De Beek finding Spanish midfielder Mata, who showed slotted home his 50th goal for the club. Paul Pogba came off the bench to score seven minutes later when his free-kick curled in via a deflection off Brighton's Joel Veltman. "A great performance by Juan Mata. He was the one who got on the ball and calmed us down. He was composed. He more or less creates the first goal himself. I am never surprised when he plays like this," Solskjaer said. "We needed the first 20-25 minutes to get our confidence and get on the ball. We have worked on set pieces. You keep a clean sheet and this is important for a back four." Dominic Calvert-Lewin hit a hat-trick as Everton thrashed West Ham 4-1, but the win was overshadowed by injuries to the Toffees' Brazilian stars Richarlison and Allan. Calvert-Lewin put Everton ahead with his sixth goal of the season after 11 minutes after Goodison Park. Carlo Ancelotti's side, who have won six consecutive matches in all competitions this season, were pegged back by Robert Snodgrass's 46th minute equaliser. Richarlison restored Everton's lead 10 minutes later before Calvert-Lewin bagged his second treble already this season with goals in the 78th and 84th minute. Newcastle survived a scare from fourth tier Newport before reaching the last eight with a 5-4 penalty shoot-out win after their 1-1 draw.

Man City, Man Utd ease into League Cup quarter-finals

Real Madrid missed the creativity of the injured Eden Hazard as only a fortuitous goal from substitute Vinicius Junior earned them a 1-0 victory over Real Valladolid in La Liga on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Vinicius capitalised on some chaotic defending in the Valladolid penalty area after coming on for Luka Jovic, Madrid's misfiring striker who was committed but ultimately fruitless again in front of goal.&nbsp;

"We know we have to improve and we are going to," said Zinedine Zidane.

Jovic could yet be allowed to leave before the end of the transfer window on Monday and he must have looked on enviously as a simple chance fell to Vinicius to give Madrid their second win of the season.&nbsp;

But the lack of goals only served to highlight the absence of Hazard, who had been due to make his first appearance of the season only to pull out of the squad earlier on Wednesday with a muscle injury in his right leg.&nbsp;

Hazard sat out Madrid's opening two games, with Zidane adamant the Belgium midfielder needed to be fully fit and completely pain free from the troublesome ankle problem he struggled with last term.&nbsp;

Yet a separate injury means Hazard is now expected to be out for at least another two weeks, leaving Madrid to cope without their 100 million euros ($117 million) signing, just as they had to for prolonged periods during his opening year.&nbsp;

"It's a little thing," said Zidane. "I don't know if it will be days or weeks but it isn't much."

With Gareth Bale and James Rodriguez gone, the attacking onus will fall on the likes of Vinicius, even if Zidane preferred to start with the Brazilian on the bench and give Jovic another chance to impress alongside Karim Benzema.

"We lacked a bit of rhythm, we needed to the move the ball faster," added Thibaut Courtois.&nbsp;

"If you don't move the ball fast, it's easy for them to defend. In the second half we were better."

Jovic, who has scored only two goals since joining from Frankfurt for 60 million euros in July 2019, could not be faulted for a lack of effort and was arguably Madrid's busiest attacking player in the first half.

But two good chances went begging and Zidane finally brought on Vinicius just before the hour.&nbsp;

Seven points from nine continues a solid start for the reigning champions, with Barcelona due to play away at Celta Vigo on Thursday.

Earlier, Atletico Madrid followed up their 6-1 thrashing of Granada on Saturday with a much less spectacular goalless draw away at Huesca.&nbsp;

Valladolid are still without a victory after four games, having only managed draws at home to Real Sociedad and Celta Vigo.

Jovic was involved early for Madrid, his driving run down the left giving Marcelo a sight of goal, before a speedy counter-attack ended with Fede Valverde sliding the ball across, but he fired over.&nbsp;

Jovic lashed into the side-netting after some good work by Luka Modric and then saw a header saved early in the second half, with Casemiro smashing the rebound against the crossbar.&nbsp;

With the game in the balance, Valladolid sniffed an opportunity. Waldo Rubio dragged wide from close range and then Shon Weissman raced forward and forced Courtois into a smart save.&nbsp;

But as the visitors were gaining in confidence, Madrid struck, Vinicius taking advantage of a string of defensive errors, the last committed by Bruno, his attempted clearance falling to the feet of the 20-year-old, who made no mistake.&nbsp;

Raul Garcia and Waldo went close to an equaliser before Modric hit the post late on.

Real Madrid missed the creativity of the injured Eden Hazard as only a fortuitous goal from substitute Vinicius Junior earned them a 1-0 victory over Real Valladolid in La Liga on Wednesday.

Real Madrid missed the creativity of the injured Eden Hazard as only a fortuitous goal from substitute Vinicius Junior earned them a 1-0 victory over Real Valladolid in La Liga on Wednesday. Vinicius capitalised on some chaotic defending in the Valladolid penalty area after coming on for Luka Jovic, Madrid's misfiring striker who was committed but ultimately fruitless again in front of goal. "We know we have to improve and we are going to," said Zinedine Zidane. Jovic could yet be allowed to leave before the end of the transfer window on Monday and he must have looked on enviously as a simple chance fell to Vinicius to give Madrid their second win of the season. But the lack of goals only served to highlight the absence of Hazard, who had been due to make his first appearance of the season only to pull out of the squad earlier on Wednesday with a muscle injury in his right leg. Hazard sat out Madrid's opening two games, with Zidane adamant the Belgium midfielder needed to be fully fit and completely pain free from the troublesome ankle problem he struggled with last term. Yet a separate injury means Hazard is now expected to be out for at least another two weeks, leaving Madrid to cope without their 100 million euros ($117 million) signing, just as they had to for prolonged periods during his opening year. "It's a little thing," said Zidane. "I don't know if it will be days or weeks but it isn't much." With Gareth Bale and James Rodriguez gone, the attacking onus will fall on the likes of Vinicius, even if Zidane preferred to start with the Brazilian on the bench and give Jovic another chance to impress alongside Karim Benzema. "We lacked a bit of rhythm, we needed to the move the ball faster," added Thibaut Courtois. "If you don't move the ball fast, it's easy for them to defend. In the second half we were better." Jovic, who has scored only two goals since joining from Frankfurt for 60 million euros in July 2019, could not be faulted for a lack of effort and was arguably Madrid's busiest attacking player in the first half. But two good chances went begging and Zidane finally brought on Vinicius just before the hour. Seven points from nine continues a solid start for the reigning champions, with Barcelona due to play away at Celta Vigo on Thursday. Earlier, Atletico Madrid followed up their 6-1 thrashing of Granada on Saturday with a much less spectacular goalless draw away at Huesca. Valladolid are still without a victory after four games, having only managed draws at home to Real Sociedad and Celta Vigo. Jovic was involved early for Madrid, his driving run down the left giving Marcelo a sight of goal, before a speedy counter-attack ended with Fede Valverde sliding the ball across, but he fired over. Jovic lashed into the side-netting after some good work by Luka Modric and then saw a header saved early in the second half, with Casemiro smashing the rebound against the crossbar. With the game in the balance, Valladolid sniffed an opportunity. Waldo Rubio dragged wide from close range and then Shon Weissman raced forward and forced Courtois into a smart save. But as the visitors were gaining in confidence, Madrid struck, Vinicius taking advantage of a string of defensive errors, the last committed by Bruno, his attempted clearance falling to the feet of the 20-year-old, who made no mistake. Raul Garcia and Waldo went close to an equaliser before Modric hit the post late on.

Madrid miss Hazard as Vinicius sneaks win over Valladolid

LeBron James, seeking a fourth NBA title in his 10th Finals appearance, has no trouble keeping his Los Angeles Lakers' dominant victory in game one of the 2020 title series in perspective.

The Lakers shook off a slow start to lead the Miami Heat by as many as 32 points on the way to a 116-98 victory in Orlando, Florida, but James insisted it was no time to celebrate.

"The best teacher in life is experience," James said. "I've experienced moments in my career where you have all the momentum in the world and you felt like you had the game under control, and one play here or one play there could change the course of a series or change the course of a game."

James is still rankled by the memory of game two of the 2011 NBA Finals, when he played alongside Dwyane Wade for the Heat against the Dallas Mavericks.

"D-Wade hits a three right by their bench," James recalled. "I believe it put us up either 13 or 17.

"From that moment on, Dallas went on a hell of a run and finished it off with a Dirk Nowitzki left-hand layup to steal that game.

"That burns me to this day," James said, adding that's why he was already looking forward to seeing where the Lakers can improve before game two against the Heat on Friday.

"I'm extremely amped up about watching the film with our ballclub tomorrow," he said. "I'm going to watch some tonight obviously by myself, but I'm looking forward to getting together as a group tomorrow."

While the championship series stage is nothing new to James -- or the 16-time champion Lakers franchise -- it's a first for star teammate Anthony Davis.

Davis scored 34 points in an impressive Finals debut, but he, too, said the Lakers should have started and finished the game better.

The underdog heat jumped to a 13-point lead midway through the first quarter. And even after injuries to Goran Dragic and Bam Adebayo they were able to narrow the final margin with a solid fourth-quarter performance.

"We have to be able to come out a little bit more aggressive and come out with a little more sense of urgency, and that's on the starters, especially me and Bron," Davis said. "But it feels good to get the first game.

"We're not satisfied. We don't like how we ended the game. That wasn't a championship mentality, and you know, we have to be better in that regard.

"We'll take the win, but we'll watch film and try to take advantage, as well."

LeBron James, seeking a fourth NBA title in his 10th Finals appearance, has no trouble keeping his Los Angeles Lakers' dominant victory in game one of the 2020 title series in perspective.

LeBron James, seeking a fourth NBA title in his 10th Finals appearance, has no trouble keeping his Los Angeles Lakers' dominant victory in game one of the 2020 title series in perspective. The Lakers shook off a slow start to lead the Miami Heat by as many as 32 points on the way to a 116-98 victory in Orlando, Florida, but James insisted it was no time to celebrate. "The best teacher in life is experience," James said. "I've experienced moments in my career where you have all the momentum in the world and you felt like you had the game under control, and one play here or one play there could change the course of a series or change the course of a game." James is still rankled by the memory of game two of the 2011 NBA Finals, when he played alongside Dwyane Wade for the Heat against the Dallas Mavericks. "D-Wade hits a three right by their bench," James recalled. "I believe it put us up either 13 or 17. "From that moment on, Dallas went on a hell of a run and finished it off with a Dirk Nowitzki left-hand layup to steal that game. "That burns me to this day," James said, adding that's why he was already looking forward to seeing where the Lakers can improve before game two against the Heat on Friday. "I'm extremely amped up about watching the film with our ballclub tomorrow," he said. "I'm going to watch some tonight obviously by myself, but I'm looking forward to getting together as a group tomorrow." While the championship series stage is nothing new to James -- or the 16-time champion Lakers franchise -- it's a first for star teammate Anthony Davis. Davis scored 34 points in an impressive Finals debut, but he, too, said the Lakers should have started and finished the game better. The underdog heat jumped to a 13-point lead midway through the first quarter. And even after injuries to Goran Dragic and Bam Adebayo they were able to narrow the final margin with a solid fourth-quarter performance. "We have to be able to come out a little bit more aggressive and come out with a little more sense of urgency, and that's on the starters, especially me and Bron," Davis said. "But it feels good to get the first game. "We're not satisfied. We don't like how we ended the game. That wasn't a championship mentality, and you know, we have to be better in that regard. "We'll take the win, but we'll watch film and try to take advantage, as well."

James keeps eye on ultimate prize as Lakers win NBA Finals opener

Kolkata Knight Riders on Wednesday defeated Rajasthan Royals at the Dubai International Stadium with the latter losing their first match in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020. KKR bowlers stole the show with a lethal effort as they restricted RR for 137/9 to help the Dinesh Karthik-led outfit seal a comfortable 37-run win in Dubai.

While KKR posted 174/6 in 20 overs courtesy a fine knock by Shubman Gill (47) and unbeaten 34 off 23 from Eoin Morgan, RR faltered under pressure as they lost quick wickets early on and failed to recuperate from the early dismissals.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/simon-doull-backs-kkr-star-shubman-gill-to-lead-an-ipl-side-in-two-years-331464" hreflang="en">Simon Doull backs KKR star Shubman Gill to lead an IPL side in two years</a>

Opting to field first, RR got rid of misfiring Sunil Narine early on before Nitish Rana (22) stitched a mini-partnership with Sunil Narine. However, with Jofra Archer bowling a peach of a spell, KKR lost skipper Dinesh Karthik (1) and Andre Russell (24), pressure was on the Kolkata outfit at one point in time. However, Morgan, Cummins (12) and Kamlesh Nagarkoti (8*) took KKR to 174-run total.&nbsp;

Chasing 175, RR lost Steve Smith (3) early on before Shivam Mavi got rid of in-form Sanju Samson (8). Robin Uthappa (2), Riyan Parag (1) followed them in quick succession. While Rahul Tewatia (14) and Tom Curran stitched a partnership down the order, it was too little too late for the Rajasthan franchise.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-csk-ceo-gives-update-on-ambati-rayudu-and-dwayne-bravos-fitness-331418" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: CSK CEO gives update on Ambati Rayudu and Dwayne Bravo's fitness</a>

This was RR’s first defeat in IPL 2020 with KKR continuing their winning run after suffering defeat in their season opener.&nbsp;

KKR next face Delhi Capitals in Sharjah on Saturday with RR playing Mumbai Indians next on Tuesday in Abu Dhabi.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Kolkata Knight Riders on Wednesday defeated Rajasthan Royals at the Dubai International Stadium with the latter losing their first match in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020.

Kolkata Knight Riders on Wednesday defeated Rajasthan Royals at the Dubai International Stadium with the latter losing their first match in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020. KKR bowlers stole the show with a lethal effort as they restricted RR for 137/9 to help the Dinesh Karthik-led outfit seal a comfortable 37-run win in Dubai. While KKR posted 174/6 in 20 overs courtesy a fine knock by Shubman Gill (47) and unbeaten 34 off 23 from Eoin Morgan, RR faltered under pressure as they lost quick wickets early on and failed to recuperate from the early dismissals. ALSO READ: Simon Doull backs KKR star Shubman Gill to lead an IPL side in two years Opting to field first, RR got rid of misfiring Sunil Narine early on before Nitish Rana (22) stitched a mini-partnership with Sunil Narine. However, with Jofra Archer bowling a peach of a spell, KKR lost skipper Dinesh Karthik (1) and Andre Russell (24), pressure was on the Kolkata outfit at one point in time. However, Morgan, Cummins (12) and Kamlesh Nagarkoti (8*) took KKR to 174-run total. Chasing 175, RR lost Steve Smith (3) early on before Shivam Mavi got rid of in-form Sanju Samson (8). Robin Uthappa (2), Riyan Parag (1) followed them in quick succession. While Rahul Tewatia (14) and Tom Curran stitched a partnership down the order, it was too little too late for the Rajasthan franchise. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: CSK CEO gives update on Ambati Rayudu and Dwayne Bravo's fitness This was RR’s first defeat in IPL 2020 with KKR continuing their winning run after suffering defeat in their season opener. KKR next face Delhi Capitals in Sharjah on Saturday with RR playing Mumbai Indians next on Tuesday in Abu Dhabi.

IPL 2020: Kolkata Knight Riders end Rajasthan Royal's unbeaten run, win by 37 runs

Former New Zealand cricketer-turned-commentator Simon Doull has lavished high praise on Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) youngster Shubman Gill following his sensational knock against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). Doull, who is currently commentating in the ongoing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a>, has predicted that Gill will soon become the captain of an IPL franchise.

Gill, who is hailed as the one of the best young batsmen in India, has already proved his batting ability in the IPL and the youngster was praised for showing maturity and class at a tender age of 21. The youngster from Punjab hammered an unbeaten 70 off 62 against SRH where he faced the likes of Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi with ease.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-rr-vs-kkr-preview-can-dk-and-co-stop-high-flying-rajasthan-royals-331422">IPL 2020, RR vs KKR Preview: Can DK and Co. stop high-flying Rajasthan Royals?</a>

“It was a perfect score for Shubman to get into this tournament. He didn’t score much in the first match. He needed a score to get started and when you are chasing only 143, you could play your natural game. It will hold him in good stead moving forward. In the match against SRH, he timed the innings superbly. He needed to be there and show the maturity that he can bat through and win for his team,” Doull told Cricbuzz.

Doull is of the view that Gill must spend time with the likes of Eoin Morgan, Dinesh Karthik and Brendon McCullum to grasp captaincy skills and tricks.

“I think Eoin Morgan had the best ally on the other end in Shubman. So, the experience and calm nature of Morgan was supported well by the youthful exuberance of Shubman. He kept his head in place and I think it was a very very fine innings," he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-13-if-samson-has-consistent-season-he-will-represent-india-feels-warne-331459" hreflang="en">IPL 13: If Samson has consistent season he will represent India, feels Warne</a>

"I won’t be surprised if we see him leading an IPL side two years down the line at the ripe age of 22-23. I think he should spend a lot of time with Dinesh Karthik and Eoin Morgan and pick their brains. He also has Brendon McCullum, one of the most innovative captains in the last 7-9 years. I think he can learn a lot if he is around these guys," said the former New Zealand cricketer.

KKR will be in action against RR on Wednesday at the Dubai International Stadium. 
&nbsp;

Former New Zealand cricketer-turned-commentator Simon Doull has lavished high praise on Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) youngster Shubman Gill following his sensational knock against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH).

Former New Zealand cricketer-turned-commentator Simon Doull has lavished high praise on Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) youngster Shubman Gill following his sensational knock against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). Doull, who is currently commentating in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, has predicted that Gill will soon become the captain of an IPL franchise. Gill, who is hailed as the one of the best young batsmen in India, has already proved his batting ability in the IPL and the youngster was praised for showing maturity and class at a tender age of 21. The youngster from Punjab hammered an unbeaten 70 off 62 against SRH where he faced the likes of Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi with ease. ALSO READ: IPL 2020, RR vs KKR Preview: Can DK and Co. stop high-flying Rajasthan Royals? “It was a perfect score for Shubman to get into this tournament. He didn’t score much in the first match. He needed a score to get started and when you are chasing only 143, you could play your natural game. It will hold him in good stead moving forward. In the match against SRH, he timed the innings superbly. He needed to be there and show the maturity that he can bat through and win for his team,” Doull told Cricbuzz. Doull is of the view that Gill must spend time with the likes of Eoin Morgan, Dinesh Karthik and Brendon McCullum to grasp captaincy skills and tricks. “I think Eoin Morgan had the best ally on the other end in Shubman. So, the experience and calm nature of Morgan was supported well by the youthful exuberance of Shubman. He kept his head in place and I think it was a very very fine innings," he added. ALSO READ: IPL 13: If Samson has consistent season he will represent India, feels Warne "I won’t be surprised if we see him leading an IPL side two years down the line at the ripe age of 22-23. I think he should spend a lot of time with Dinesh Karthik and Eoin Morgan and pick their brains. He also has Brendon McCullum, one of the most innovative captains in the last 7-9 years. I think he can learn a lot if he is around these guys," said the former New Zealand cricketer. KKR will be in action against RR on Wednesday at the Dubai International Stadium.

Simon Doull backs KKR star Shubman Gill to lead an IPL side in two years

Rajasthan Royals` mentor Shane Warne believes that if Sanju Samson has a consistent Indian Premier League (IPL) this year, then he will definitely play for India in all formats of the game.Samson has played two matches in this year`s IPL so far and has managed to score 159 runs.

In the first match against Chennai Super Kings, the right-handed batsman scored 74 runs while in the second game he scored 85 runs while chasing a target of 224.

In an interaction with ANI, Warne opened up about his expectations from the Royals` campaign this year and he also gave an insight as to how his role as a mentor will be different in IPL 2020.

Talking about Samson, Warne said: "Sanju Samson, I mean I have been saying it for a long time now, Sanju should be playing all forms of the game for India. He is such a quality player, he`s shown that class again in the first game and I hope he has a consistent tournament this year. If he has a consistent tournament this year I think you`ll see him representing India in all forms of the game."

"He`s just such a talented player, I`ve seen a lot of talented cricketers in my time but watching Samson bat, in the nets being around him, speaking to him over the years and now watching him evolve I mean he is something else. He is a very special talent and I hope he hits the international stage very soon," added the 51-year-old.

Warne has been involved with the Royals since the inception of the IPL and he also led the Rajasthan Royals to the title win in the inaugural season. The former Australian spinner was exceptional in grooming youngsters like Ravindra Jadeja and many Indian cricketers like Mohammad Kaif, Yusuf Pathan have talked about the leadership skills of Warne.

"I feel like I`ve got a spiritual connection with the Royals. Back in 2008, it was just such a wonderful time, and every now and then you connect and get involved with something that is super special and is magic. The squad we had in 2008 produced some magic and lifetime friendships. I love the Royals and have always been a Royals and grateful for the opportunity to be back working with the Royals in this capacity and I hope it continues. I hope there`s always a role for me here at the Royals because I`m passionate and just love Rajasthan Royals very very much," said Warne.

When asked whether the Royals` squad looks balanced as compared to other seasons in the past, Warne said: "I think the squad looks great, some great young talent, some experienced players, good variety in the bowling attack, power hitters and manipulators of the ball. Some good players of spin and pace, a good combination of left and right-handers. So, I think the squad is there, it`s about them being able to deliver."

"So if we can deliver our skills and I feel it could be the Royals` year this year in 2020. Hopefully, Ben Stokes would play a part this year, he`s a big loss and our thoughts are with him but you know add Ben Stokes to the team that played the other night and it looks a very very good side," he added.

The Steve Smith-led Rajasthan Royals have won their opening two matches of the tournament so far. The side outclassed Chennai Super Kings by 16 runs while the side gained an improbable four-wicket victory over Kings XI Punjab.

Talking about his role as a mentor, Warne said: "My mentor role, it`s a bit different this year. I`ll be sitting in the stands, watching the games, not in the dugout. So, I won`t have anything to do with anything actual in-game. I would be watching just like anybody else and then I`ll be sitting with Andrew McDonald and Steve Smith after each game, see if I saw anything, talk to them and listen to them talk and their ideas and add some of my thoughts."

"So that part and then being around training, motivating the group, helping out individuals in the team, trying to get the best out of them and helping Andrew McDonald and Steve Smith in any which way possible way," Warne signed off.

Rajasthan Royals` mentor Shane Warne believes that if Sanju Samson has a consistent Indian Premier League (IPL) this year, then he will definitely play for India in all formats of the game.

Rajasthan Royals` mentor Shane Warne believes that if Sanju Samson has a consistent Indian Premier League (IPL) this year, then he will definitely play for India in all formats of the game.Samson has played two matches in this year`s IPL so far and has managed to score 159 runs. In the first match against Chennai Super Kings, the right-handed batsman scored 74 runs while in the second game he scored 85 runs while chasing a target of 224. In an interaction with ANI, Warne opened up about his expectations from the Royals` campaign this year and he also gave an insight as to how his role as a mentor will be different in IPL 2020. Talking about Samson, Warne said: "Sanju Samson, I mean I have been saying it for a long time now, Sanju should be playing all forms of the game for India. He is such a quality player, he`s shown that class again in the first game and I hope he has a consistent tournament this year. If he has a consistent tournament this year I think you`ll see him representing India in all forms of the game." "He`s just such a talented player, I`ve seen a lot of talented cricketers in my time but watching Samson bat, in the nets being around him, speaking to him over the years and now watching him evolve I mean he is something else. He is a very special talent and I hope he hits the international stage very soon," added the 51-year-old. Warne has been involved with the Royals since the inception of the IPL and he also led the Rajasthan Royals to the title win in the inaugural season. The former Australian spinner was exceptional in grooming youngsters like Ravindra Jadeja and many Indian cricketers like Mohammad Kaif, Yusuf Pathan have talked about the leadership skills of Warne. "I feel like I`ve got a spiritual connection with the Royals. Back in 2008, it was just such a wonderful time, and every now and then you connect and get involved with something that is super special and is magic. The squad we had in 2008 produced some magic and lifetime friendships. I love the Royals and have always been a Royals and grateful for the opportunity to be back working with the Royals in this capacity and I hope it continues. I hope there`s always a role for me here at the Royals because I`m passionate and just love Rajasthan Royals very very much," said Warne. When asked whether the Royals` squad looks balanced as compared to other seasons in the past, Warne said: "I think the squad looks great, some great young talent, some experienced players, good variety in the bowling attack, power hitters and manipulators of the ball. Some good players of spin and pace, a good combination of left and right-handers. So, I think the squad is there, it`s about them being able to deliver." "So if we can deliver our skills and I feel it could be the Royals` year this year in 2020. Hopefully, Ben Stokes would play a part this year, he`s a big loss and our thoughts are with him but you know add Ben Stokes to the team that played the other night and it looks a very very good side," he added. The Steve Smith-led Rajasthan Royals have won their opening two matches of the tournament so far. The side outclassed Chennai Super Kings by 16 runs while the side gained an improbable four-wicket victory over Kings XI Punjab. Talking about his role as a mentor, Warne said: "My mentor role, it`s a bit different this year. I`ll be sitting in the stands, watching the games, not in the dugout. So, I won`t have anything to do with anything actual in-game. I would be watching just like anybody else and then I`ll be sitting with Andrew McDonald and Steve Smith after each game, see if I saw anything, talk to them and listen to them talk and their ideas and add some of my thoughts." "So that part and then being around training, motivating the group, helping out individuals in the team, trying to get the best out of them and helping Andrew McDonald and Steve Smith in any which way possible way," Warne signed off.

IPL 13: If Samson has consistent season he will represent India, feels Warne

The ongoing French Open 2020 may find itself in controversy with Spanish tennis player Fernando Verdasco set to sue Roland Garros for forcing him out of the Grand Slam tournament. The Roland Garros 2020 is well underway into the second round with the likes of Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic and Dominic Thiem among the top contenders to win the French Open.&nbsp;

However, there were many tennis stars who opted out of the tournament with former world number seven Fernando Verdasco being one of them. Verdasco had tested positive for COVID-19 ahead of the tournament but was reportedly denied a second test and was forced to pull out of the Grand Slam event.&nbsp;

Verdasco has now said that he is willing to sue Roland Garros for not allowing him to play in the showpiece tournament while adding it is not about monetary damage but personal and professional insecurity it caused.

The Spaniard, who was not allowed to take a second COVID-19 tests, took two independent tests which returned negative both the times.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serena-williams-pulls-out-of-roland-garros-due-to-achilles-injury-331427" hreflang="en">Serena Williams pulls out of Roland Garros due to Achilles injury</a>

"Do I want to sue Roland Garros? Yes, obviously. Nobody can believe that a tournament like Roland Garros can do that. It can't be. It is not a thing about money, it is a thing of damage which this does you personally and professionally," he said, per PA Media (h/t Sky Sports).

"I don't know if I'm going to play again this year or not because you lose the desire for everything. They [French Open organisers] do things as they please, without any coherence and without any respect. The rights of the players count for nothing. Then the next day, following when I have been left out of the draw, they change the rules and now you can do a second test—that was the final straw."

Verdasco has been a common name in French Open after playing in the Grand Slam even for the past 17 years. 
&nbsp;

The ongoing French Open 2020 may find itself in controversy with Spanish tennis player Fernando Verdasco set to sue Roland Garros for forcing him out of the Grand Slam tournament.

The ongoing French Open 2020 may find itself in controversy with Spanish tennis player Fernando Verdasco set to sue Roland Garros for forcing him out of the Grand Slam tournament. The Roland Garros 2020 is well underway into the second round with the likes of Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic and Dominic Thiem among the top contenders to win the French Open. However, there were many tennis stars who opted out of the tournament with former world number seven Fernando Verdasco being one of them. Verdasco had tested positive for COVID-19 ahead of the tournament but was reportedly denied a second test and was forced to pull out of the Grand Slam event. Verdasco has now said that he is willing to sue Roland Garros for not allowing him to play in the showpiece tournament while adding it is not about monetary damage but personal and professional insecurity it caused. The Spaniard, who was not allowed to take a second COVID-19 tests, took two independent tests which returned negative both the times. ALSO READ: Serena Williams pulls out of Roland Garros due to Achilles injury "Do I want to sue Roland Garros? Yes, obviously. Nobody can believe that a tournament like Roland Garros can do that. It can't be. It is not a thing about money, it is a thing of damage which this does you personally and professionally," he said, per PA Media (h/t Sky Sports). "I don't know if I'm going to play again this year or not because you lose the desire for everything. They [French Open organisers] do things as they please, without any coherence and without any respect. The rights of the players count for nothing. Then the next day, following when I have been left out of the draw, they change the rules and now you can do a second test—that was the final straw." Verdasco has been a common name in French Open after playing in the Grand Slam even for the past 17 years.

Fernando Verdasco wants to sue Roland Garros after being forced to quit French Open 2020

Manchester City have announced the signing of Ruben Dias. The 23-year-old centre-back joins from Portuguese outfit Benfica, with Nicolas Otamendi moving in the opposite direction. Having undergone a medical in Lisbon prior to completing the deal, Dias arrived in Manchester on Monday.

A product of the Benfica academy, Dias enjoyed individual success at youth level, featuring in the UEFA European Under-19 Championship Team of the Tournament in 2016 and being named Cosme Damião Revelation of the Year the following season.

He went on to win both the Portuguese title and Super Cup during his three seasons in the first team, while also competing in the Champions League.

With 19 senior international caps already to his name, Dias won the inaugural UEFA Nations League in 2019 with his native Portugal. He was named man-of-the-match in the final and also featured in the team of the tournament alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, Virgil Van Dijk and City teammate Bernardo Silva.

Rúben Dias said: “To have the opportunity to join a club like Manchester City is a fantastic opportunity for me and one I couldn’t turn down. Their success speaks for itself. They have been the dominant team in England over the last few years, playing an attacking brand of football which I feel suits my own game.

“It is really exciting to be part of such a talented squad and to play for a world class manager like Pep Guardiola, who has a proven track record of developing young players like myself. “I believe I can improve here, at a club whose ambitions match my own and I will give everything to be successful and win titles.”

Txiki Begiristain added: “Ruben is a player we have admired for some time and we have been impressed with how he has progressed at Benfica. He has developed into a real leader and as a defender, he has all the attributes we are looking for. He is strong in the air, good in one v one situations and technically, he is very good, so we are confident he can thrive in our system.

“He is young but has gained valuable experience at a big European club in Benfica and we’re really pleased we’ve been able to sign him. He is another talented addition to the squad and someone who is only going to get better working under Pep.”

Manchester City have announced the signing of Ruben Dias. The 23-year-old centre-back joins from Portuguese outfit Benfica, with Nicolas Otamendi moving in the opposite direction.

Manchester City have announced the signing of Ruben Dias. The 23-year-old centre-back joins from Portuguese outfit Benfica, with Nicolas Otamendi moving in the opposite direction. Having undergone a medical in Lisbon prior to completing the deal, Dias arrived in Manchester on Monday. A product of the Benfica academy, Dias enjoyed individual success at youth level, featuring in the UEFA European Under-19 Championship Team of the Tournament in 2016 and being named Cosme Damião Revelation of the Year the following season. He went on to win both the Portuguese title and Super Cup during his three seasons in the first team, while also competing in the Champions League. With 19 senior international caps already to his name, Dias won the inaugural UEFA Nations League in 2019 with his native Portugal. He was named man-of-the-match in the final and also featured in the team of the tournament alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, Virgil Van Dijk and City teammate Bernardo Silva. Rúben Dias said: “To have the opportunity to join a club like Manchester City is a fantastic opportunity for me and one I couldn’t turn down. Their success speaks for itself. They have been the dominant team in England over the last few years, playing an attacking brand of football which I feel suits my own game. “It is really exciting to be part of such a talented squad and to play for a world class manager like Pep Guardiola, who has a proven track record of developing young players like myself. “I believe I can improve here, at a club whose ambitions match my own and I will give everything to be successful and win titles.” Txiki Begiristain added: “Ruben is a player we have admired for some time and we have been impressed with how he has progressed at Benfica. He has developed into a real leader and as a defender, he has all the attributes we are looking for. He is strong in the air, good in one v one situations and technically, he is very good, so we are confident he can thrive in our system. “He is young but has gained valuable experience at a big European club in Benfica and we’re really pleased we’ve been able to sign him. He is another talented addition to the squad and someone who is only going to get better working under Pep.”

Ruben Dias signs for Manchester City from SL Benfica

High-flying Rajasthan Royals are set to face Kolkata Knight Riders at the Dubai International Stadium on Wednesday in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a>. Both RR and KKR are heading into the match on the back of a stunning win over KXIP and SRH respectively and would look to continue their winning run.&nbsp;

The head-to-head encounters between RR and KKR are firmly locked at 10-10 wins each with the match promising to be another close contest in IPL 2020. Both RR and KKR almost have their full squad available with no major injury concerns but the Steve Smith-led outfit is still without England all-rounder Ben Stokes.

With the pitch in Dubai drying up a bit, a score of 170 is deemed as competitive and it would be interesting to see what the captain opts for after winning the toss.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-rr-vs-kkr-preview-can-dk-and-co-stop-high-flying-rajasthan-royals-331422" hreflang="en">IPL 2020, RR vs KKR Preview: Can DK and Co. stop high-flying Rajasthan Royals?</a>

<h2>Where will the IPL 2020 match between Rajasthan Royals vs Kolkata Knight Riders take place?</h2>

The IPL 2020 match between Rajasthan Royals vs Kolkata Knight Riders will take place at the Dubai International Stadium.

<h2>What time will the IPL 2020 match between Rajasthan Royals vs Kolkata Knight Riders begin?</h2>

The IPL 2020 match between Rajasthan Royals vs Kolkata Knight Riders at 7:30 PM IST on Wednesday (September 30).

<h2>How to watch live IPL 2020 match between Rajasthan Royals vs Kolkata Knight Riders begin?</h2>

The IPL 2020 match between Rajasthan Royals vs Kolkata Knight Riders will be aired live on Star Sports channels. Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 3 and Star Sports 3 HD.

<h2>How to watch IPL 2020 match between Rajasthan Royals vs Kolkata Knight Riders match online?</h2>

The online live streaming of the IPL 2020 match between Rajasthan Royals vs Kolkata Knight Riders will be available at Hotstar. You can also latest updates of the IPL 2020 match between Rajasthan Royals vs Kolkata Knight Riders match at WION. 
&nbsp;

High-flying Rajasthan Royals are set to face Kolkata Knight Riders at the Dubai International Stadium on Wednesday in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020. Both RR and KKR are heading into the match on the back of a stunning win over KXIP and SRH respectively and would look to continue their winning run.

High-flying Rajasthan Royals are set to face Kolkata Knight Riders at the Dubai International Stadium on Wednesday in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020. Both RR and KKR are heading into the match on the back of a stunning win over KXIP and SRH respectively and would look to continue their winning run. The head-to-head encounters between RR and KKR are firmly locked at 10-10 wins each with the match promising to be another close contest in IPL 2020. Both RR and KKR almost have their full squad available with no major injury concerns but the Steve Smith-led outfit is still without England all-rounder Ben Stokes. With the pitch in Dubai drying up a bit, a score of 170 is deemed as competitive and it would be interesting to see what the captain opts for after winning the toss. ALSO READ: IPL 2020, RR vs KKR Preview: Can DK and Co. stop high-flying Rajasthan Royals? Where will the IPL 2020 match between Rajasthan Royals vs Kolkata Knight Riders take place? The IPL 2020 match between Rajasthan Royals vs Kolkata Knight Riders will take place at the Dubai International Stadium. What time will the IPL 2020 match between Rajasthan Royals vs Kolkata Knight Riders begin? The IPL 2020 match between Rajasthan Royals vs Kolkata Knight Riders at 7:30 PM IST on Wednesday (September 30). How to watch live IPL 2020 match between Rajasthan Royals vs Kolkata Knight Riders begin? The IPL 2020 match between Rajasthan Royals vs Kolkata Knight Riders will be aired live on Star Sports channels. Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 3 and Star Sports 3 HD. How to watch IPL 2020 match between Rajasthan Royals vs Kolkata Knight Riders match online? The online live streaming of the IPL 2020 match between Rajasthan Royals vs Kolkata Knight Riders will be available at Hotstar. You can also latest updates of the IPL 2020 match between Rajasthan Royals vs Kolkata Knight Riders match at WION.

RR vs KKR, IPL 2020 Live Streaming: When and where to watch Rajasthan Royals vs Kolkata Knight Riders?

Serena&nbsp;Williams on Wednesday withdrew from the Roland Garros owing to an Achilles injury. The three-time champion Serena was schedule to take on Bulgaria’s Tsvetana Pironkova in the second-round of French Open but opted out of the Grand Slam due to Achilles injury.

Serena, who has won 23 Grand Slam titles, was looking to equal Margaret Court’s all-time record of 24 but pulled out of the tournament as she said she would need four to six weeks to recover properly. Serena added that she has been struggling to walk.&nbsp;

"I think I need four to six weeks of sitting and doing nothing," Williams told a news conference.

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Serena Williams has withdrawn from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RolandGarros?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RolandGarros</a> with an achilles injury. <a href="https://t.co/u6vGa9JCkX">pic.twitter.com/u6vGa9JCkX</a>
— Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) <a href="https://twitter.com/rolandgarros/status/1311250057786585088?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"I have been struggling to walk so that's a telltale sign that I should try to recover. Achilles is an injury you don't want to play with - I think it was one of the worst, don't want to get to that point, I want it to get better."

Serena suffered the blow during her US Open semi-final defeat to Victoria Azarenka earlier in September. However, she carried on playing tennis and on Monday, defeated fellow American Kristie Ahn 7-6 (7-2) 6-0 in the first round of Roland Garros. But she said she was struggling physically.&nbsp;

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"I always give a hundred per cent... and I take solace in that."<a href="https://twitter.com/serenawilliams?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@serenawilliams</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RolandGarros?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RolandGarros</a> <a href="https://t.co/t9FNt49Prb">pic.twitter.com/t9FNt49Prb</a>
— Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) <a href="https://twitter.com/rolandgarros/status/1311252071400833027?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

"In the second set I felt I needed to walk with a limp," Williams added. "I had to focus on walking straight so I wasn't limping. I tried and always give 100%, I take solace in that.

"I'm not sure I will play another tournament this year. It is not an acute injury, it is a nagging injury. I ran into bad timing and bad luck really." 
&nbsp;

Serena Williams on Wednesday withdrew from the Roland Garros owing to an Achilles injury. The three-time champion Serena was schedule to take on Bulgaria’s Tsvetana Pironkova in the second-round of French Open but opted out of the Grand Slam due to Achilles injury.

Serena Williams on Wednesday withdrew from the Roland Garros owing to an Achilles injury. The three-time champion Serena was schedule to take on Bulgaria’s Tsvetana Pironkova in the second-round of French Open but opted out of the Grand Slam due to Achilles injury. Serena, who has won 23 Grand Slam titles, was looking to equal Margaret Court’s all-time record of 24 but pulled out of the tournament as she said she would need four to six weeks to recover properly. Serena added that she has been struggling to walk. "I think I need four to six weeks of sitting and doing nothing," Williams told a news conference. Serena Williams has withdrawn from #RolandGarros with an achilles injury. pic.twitter.com/u6vGa9JCkX — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) September 30, 2020 × "I have been struggling to walk so that's a telltale sign that I should try to recover. Achilles is an injury you don't want to play with - I think it was one of the worst, don't want to get to that point, I want it to get better." Serena suffered the blow during her US Open semi-final defeat to Victoria Azarenka earlier in September. However, she carried on playing tennis and on Monday, defeated fellow American Kristie Ahn 7-6 (7-2) 6-0 in the first round of Roland Garros. But she said she was struggling physically. "I always give a hundred per cent... and I take solace in that."@serenawilliams #RolandGarros pic.twitter.com/t9FNt49Prb — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) September 30, 2020 × "In the second set I felt I needed to walk with a limp," Williams added. "I had to focus on walking straight so I wasn't limping. I tried and always give 100%, I take solace in that. "I'm not sure I will play another tournament this year. It is not an acute injury, it is a nagging injury. I ran into bad timing and bad luck really."

Serena Williams pulls out of Roland Garros due to Achilles injury

The ECB on Wednesday&nbsp;confirmed the award of Central Contracts for England Men's Test and White Ball cricket for 2020/21. The selectors have awarded 12 Test Central Contracts and 12 White Ball Central Contracts, as well as four Increment Contracts and three Pace Bowling Development Contracts.

Kent’s Zak Crawley, Surrey’s Ollie Pope and Warwickshire’s Dom Sibley all receive Test Central Contracts for the first time off the back of a 12-month period in which all three scored their maiden Test centuries.

Surrey all-rounder Tom Curran has progressed to a White Ball Central Contract, having been in possession of an Increment Contract for 2019/20.

Kent’s Joe Denly misses out on a White Ball Central Contract, and Jonny Bairstow a Test Central Contract.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serena-williams-pulls-out-of-roland-garros-due-to-achilles-injury-331427" hreflang="en">Serena Williams pulls out of Roland Garros due to Achilles injury</a>

In addition to Test and White Ball central contracts, selectors can award a limited number of Increment Contracts and Pace Bowling Developmental Contracts

Dom Bess, Chris Jordan, Dawid Malan and Jack Leach receive Increment Contracts, with Saqib Mahmood, Olly Stone and Craig Overton retaining their Pace Bowling Development Contracts.

Recipients of Test Central Contracts and White Ball Central Contracts have their salaries paid in full by the ECB.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-csk-ceo-gives-update-on-ambati-rayudu-and-dwayne-bravos-fitness-331418" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: CSK CEO gives update on Ambati Rayudu and Dwayne Bravo's fitness</a>

Under the structure, players in both formats receive a ‘ranking’ based on their performances on the pitch, as well as a number of other factors, including off-field contribution, fielding and fitness. Those rankings then correlate with the level of remuneration.

In light of the impact of COVID-19 on the finances of the game, the Team England Player Partnership, on behalf of the players, and the ECB are currently finalising the levels of player remuneration for the next 12 months. A further statement will be made once these discussions have concluded.

WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ipl-shorts-why-ms-dhonis-csk-are-struggling-in-ipl-2020-monty-panesar-gives-his-take-330744" hreflang="en">IPL Shorts: Why MS Dhoni's CSK are struggling in IPL 2020? Monty Panesar gives his take</a>

The contracts, which cover a 12-month period commencing 1 October 2020, have been awarded to the following players:

Test Central Contracts

James Anderson (Lancashire), Jofra Archer (Sussex), Stuart Broad (Nottinghamshire), Rory Burns (Surrey), Jos Buttler (Lancashire), Zak Crawley (Kent), Sam Curran (Surrey), Ollie Pope (Surrey), Joe Root (Yorkshire), Dom Sibley (Warwickshire), Ben Stokes (Durham), Chris Woakes (Warwickshire).

White Ball Central Contracts

Moeen Ali (Worcestershire), Jofra Archer (Sussex), Jonny Bairstow (Yorkshire), Jos Buttler (Lancashire), Tom Curran (Surrey), Eoin Morgan (Middlesex), Adil Rashid (Yorkshire), Joe Root (Yorkshire), Jason Roy (Surrey), Ben Stokes (Durham), Chris Woakes (Warwickshire), Mark Wood (Durham).

Increment Contracts

Dom Bess (Somerset), Chris Jordan (Sussex), Dawid Malan (Yorkshire), Jack Leach (Somerset)

Pace Bowling Development Contracts

Saqib Mahmood (Lancashire), Craig Overton (Somerset), Olly Stone (Warwickshire)

The ECB on Wednesday confirmed the award of Central Contracts for England Men's Test and White Ball cricket for 2020/21. The selectors have awarded 12 Test Central Contracts and 12 White Ball Central Contracts, as well as four Increment Contracts and three Pace Bowling Development Contracts.

The ECB on Wednesday confirmed the award of Central Contracts for England Men's Test and White Ball cricket for 2020/21. The selectors have awarded 12 Test Central Contracts and 12 White Ball Central Contracts, as well as four Increment Contracts and three Pace Bowling Development Contracts. Kent’s Zak Crawley, Surrey’s Ollie Pope and Warwickshire’s Dom Sibley all receive Test Central Contracts for the first time off the back of a 12-month period in which all three scored their maiden Test centuries. Surrey all-rounder Tom Curran has progressed to a White Ball Central Contract, having been in possession of an Increment Contract for 2019/20. Kent’s Joe Denly misses out on a White Ball Central Contract, and Jonny Bairstow a Test Central Contract. ALSO READ: Serena Williams pulls out of Roland Garros due to Achilles injury In addition to Test and White Ball central contracts, selectors can award a limited number of Increment Contracts and Pace Bowling Developmental Contracts Dom Bess, Chris Jordan, Dawid Malan and Jack Leach receive Increment Contracts, with Saqib Mahmood, Olly Stone and Craig Overton retaining their Pace Bowling Development Contracts. Recipients of Test Central Contracts and White Ball Central Contracts have their salaries paid in full by the ECB. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: CSK CEO gives update on Ambati Rayudu and Dwayne Bravo's fitness Under the structure, players in both formats receive a ‘ranking’ based on their performances on the pitch, as well as a number of other factors, including off-field contribution, fielding and fitness. Those rankings then correlate with the level of remuneration. In light of the impact of COVID-19 on the finances of the game, the Team England Player Partnership, on behalf of the players, and the ECB are currently finalising the levels of player remuneration for the next 12 months. A further statement will be made once these discussions have concluded. WATCH: IPL Shorts: Why MS Dhoni's CSK are struggling in IPL 2020? Monty Panesar gives his take The contracts, which cover a 12-month period commencing 1 October 2020, have been awarded to the following players: Test Central Contracts James Anderson (Lancashire), Jofra Archer (Sussex), Stuart Broad (Nottinghamshire), Rory Burns (Surrey), Jos Buttler (Lancashire), Zak Crawley (Kent), Sam Curran (Surrey), Ollie Pope (Surrey), Joe Root (Yorkshire), Dom Sibley (Warwickshire), Ben Stokes (Durham), Chris Woakes (Warwickshire). White Ball Central Contracts Moeen Ali (Worcestershire), Jofra Archer (Sussex), Jonny Bairstow (Yorkshire), Jos Buttler (Lancashire), Tom Curran (Surrey), Eoin Morgan (Middlesex), Adil Rashid (Yorkshire), Joe Root (Yorkshire), Jason Roy (Surrey), Ben Stokes (Durham), Chris Woakes (Warwickshire), Mark Wood (Durham). Increment Contracts Dom Bess (Somerset), Chris Jordan (Sussex), Dawid Malan (Yorkshire), Jack Leach (Somerset) Pace Bowling Development Contracts Saqib Mahmood (Lancashire), Craig Overton (Somerset), Olly Stone (Warwickshire)

ECB announces England Men’s Central Contracts for 2020/21 season

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are set to face high-flying Rajasthan Royals (RR) at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on Wednesday as the action continues in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a>. Both the teams are heading into the match on the back of thumping wins in their previous matches and would be looking to continue their winning run in Dubai.&nbsp;

While KKR defeated Sunrisers Hyderabad in their previous encounter in IPL 2020, RR chased a record 224 against Kings XI Punjab to script history. Both the teams have hit the right chords in IPL 2020 and it would be interesting to see their approach when they meet each other on Wednesday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/spin-hero-rashid-khan-pays-tribute-to-late-mother-his-biggest-fan-331409" hreflang="en">Spin hero Rashid Khan pays tribute to late mother, his 'biggest fan'</a>

<h2>RR vs KKR - Head-to-head stats:</h2>

Talking about head-to-head stats, both RR and KKR have won 10 matches each in their previous face-offs and the tie is firmly locked. However, in the UAE, RR have a 1-0 advantage over the Kolkata outfit and would look to continue the momentum in Dubai. Both RR and KKR have played two Super Overs as well.

In previous five matches, KKR have outplayed RR four times whereas the latter have won just 1 encounter. The team who have chased in the matches between RR and KKR hold an advantage when it comes to statistics with team batting second winning four of the five matches in the previous clashes.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-kkrs-karthik-picks-3-players-he-will-swap-for-rabada-iyer-and-ashwin-from-dc-330705" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Karthik picks 3 KKR players he will swap for Rabada, Iyer and Ashwin</a>

Shubman Gill shone in KKR’s win over SRH and fans will have plenty of expectations from the young batsman to take the duty forward. Whereas a lot of eyes will be on the power-hitting duo of Eoin Morgan and Andre Russel along with costliest overseas players in IPL history, Pat Cummins.&nbsp;

For RR, Sanju Samson has been the star so far with Steve Smith providing crucial starts while opening the innings. RR fans would hope Jos Buttler fires all cylinders after a disappointing outing against KXIP.&nbsp;

<h2>RR vs KKR - Squads:</h2>

Kolkata Knight Riders Squad: Shubman Gill, Sunil Narine, Nitish Rana, Dinesh Karthik(w/c), Eoin Morgan, Andre Russell, Pat Cummins, Shivam Mavi, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, Sandeep Warrier, Rahul Tripathi, Siddhesh Lad, Nikhil Naik, Chris Green, Prasidh Krishna, Lockie Ferguson, Rinku Singh, Ali Khan, Tom Banton, Manimaran Siddharth

Rajasthan Royals Squad: Jos Buttler(w), Steven Smith(c), Sanju Samson, Rahul Tewatia, Robin Uthappa, Jofra Archer, Riyan Parag, Tom Curran, Shreyas Gopal, Ankit Rajpoot, Jaydev Unadkat, Varun Aaron, David Miller, Aniruddha Joshi, Manan Vohra, Andrew Tye, Shashank Singh, Mahipal Lomror, Oshane Thomas, Mayank Markande, Anuj Rawat, Kartik Tyagi, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Akash Singh 
&nbsp;

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are set to face high-flying Rajasthan Royals (RR) at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on Wednesday as the action continues in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020.

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are set to face high-flying Rajasthan Royals (RR) at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on Wednesday as the action continues in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020. Both the teams are heading into the match on the back of thumping wins in their previous matches and would be looking to continue their winning run in Dubai. While KKR defeated Sunrisers Hyderabad in their previous encounter in IPL 2020, RR chased a record 224 against Kings XI Punjab to script history. Both the teams have hit the right chords in IPL 2020 and it would be interesting to see their approach when they meet each other on Wednesday. ALSO READ: Spin hero Rashid Khan pays tribute to late mother, his 'biggest fan' RR vs KKR - Head-to-head stats: Talking about head-to-head stats, both RR and KKR have won 10 matches each in their previous face-offs and the tie is firmly locked. However, in the UAE, RR have a 1-0 advantage over the Kolkata outfit and would look to continue the momentum in Dubai. Both RR and KKR have played two Super Overs as well. In previous five matches, KKR have outplayed RR four times whereas the latter have won just 1 encounter. The team who have chased in the matches between RR and KKR hold an advantage when it comes to statistics with team batting second winning four of the five matches in the previous clashes. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Karthik picks 3 KKR players he will swap for Rabada, Iyer and Ashwin Shubman Gill shone in KKR’s win over SRH and fans will have plenty of expectations from the young batsman to take the duty forward. Whereas a lot of eyes will be on the power-hitting duo of Eoin Morgan and Andre Russel along with costliest overseas players in IPL history, Pat Cummins. For RR, Sanju Samson has been the star so far with Steve Smith providing crucial starts while opening the innings. RR fans would hope Jos Buttler fires all cylinders after a disappointing outing against KXIP. RR vs KKR - Squads: Kolkata Knight Riders Squad: Shubman Gill, Sunil Narine, Nitish Rana, Dinesh Karthik(w/c), Eoin Morgan, Andre Russell, Pat Cummins, Shivam Mavi, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, Sandeep Warrier, Rahul Tripathi, Siddhesh Lad, Nikhil Naik, Chris Green, Prasidh Krishna, Lockie Ferguson, Rinku Singh, Ali Khan, Tom Banton, Manimaran Siddharth Rajasthan Royals Squad: Jos Buttler(w), Steven Smith(c), Sanju Samson, Rahul Tewatia, Robin Uthappa, Jofra Archer, Riyan Parag, Tom Curran, Shreyas Gopal, Ankit Rajpoot, Jaydev Unadkat, Varun Aaron, David Miller, Aniruddha Joshi, Manan Vohra, Andrew Tye, Shashank Singh, Mahipal Lomror, Oshane Thomas, Mayank Markande, Anuj Rawat, Kartik Tyagi, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Akash Singh

IPL 2020, RR vs KKR Preview: Can DK and Co. stop high-flying Rajasthan Royals?

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have had a torrid start to their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a> campaign with the MS Dhoni-led outfit lying at the bottom of the standings following two defeats and one win in their three matches so far in the T20 tournament, being played in the UAE behind closed doors.

CSK were missing two of their pillars in Ambati Rayudu and Dwayne Bravo due to injuries but there is good news for the Yellow Army fans.&nbsp;

Super Kings CEO Kasi Viswanathan has confirmed that Rayudu and Bravo are fit to take part in CSK’s next IPL 2020 match against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Friday at the Dubai International Stadium.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/best-save-i-have-seen-cricketing-icons-stunned-by-nicholas-poorans-save-330883" hreflang="en">'Best save I have seen': Cricketing icons stunned by Nicholas Pooran's save</a>

Rayudu starred in CSK’s only win in IPL 2020 so far but the franchise has struggled without their key man in the middle order.&nbsp;

“Rayudu has recovered well from a hamstring strain and will play in the next game. He ran and sprinted during training and batted without any discomfort at the nets,” the CSK CEO told Sportstar.

Bravo is another big-name player fit for CSK’s next game against SRH with the West Indies all-rounder already bowling in the nets to gear up for the T20 tournament. However, Sam Curran has excelled in Bravo’s absence and it would be interesting to see whether the Super Kings management drop the English all-rounder for Bravo.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-hardik-pandya-bowl-for-mumbai-indians-in-ipl-2020-zaheer-khan-provides-an-update-330693" hreflang="en">Will Hardik bowl for Mumbai Indians in IPL 2020? Zaheer provides update</a>

“He bowled well at the nets,” said Viswanathan when asked about Bravo. He further said that CSK are working hard to make a strong comeback in the campaign after losing the last two matches. “We have bounced back from adversity in the past. We will do so again.”

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have had a torrid start to their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 campaign with the MS Dhoni-led outfit lying at the bottom of the standings following two defeats and one win in their three matches so far in the T20 tournament, being played in the UAE behind closed doors.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have had a torrid start to their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 campaign with the MS Dhoni-led outfit lying at the bottom of the standings following two defeats and one win in their three matches so far in the T20 tournament, being played in the UAE behind closed doors. CSK were missing two of their pillars in Ambati Rayudu and Dwayne Bravo due to injuries but there is good news for the Yellow Army fans. Super Kings CEO Kasi Viswanathan has confirmed that Rayudu and Bravo are fit to take part in CSK’s next IPL 2020 match against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Friday at the Dubai International Stadium. ALSO READ: 'Best save I have seen': Cricketing icons stunned by Nicholas Pooran's save Rayudu starred in CSK’s only win in IPL 2020 so far but the franchise has struggled without their key man in the middle order. “Rayudu has recovered well from a hamstring strain and will play in the next game. He ran and sprinted during training and batted without any discomfort at the nets,” the CSK CEO told Sportstar. Bravo is another big-name player fit for CSK’s next game against SRH with the West Indies all-rounder already bowling in the nets to gear up for the T20 tournament. However, Sam Curran has excelled in Bravo’s absence and it would be interesting to see whether the Super Kings management drop the English all-rounder for Bravo. ALSO READ: Will Hardik bowl for Mumbai Indians in IPL 2020? Zaheer provides update “He bowled well at the nets,” said Viswanathan when asked about Bravo. He further said that CSK are working hard to make a strong comeback in the campaign after losing the last two matches. “We have bounced back from adversity in the past. We will do so again.”

IPL 2020: CSK CEO gives update on Ambati Rayudu and Dwayne Bravo's fitness

Lionel Messi called for "an end" to arguments at Barcelona as he urged unity at the club he tried to leave before the season.

The Barcelona captain spoke to Barcelona newspaper Sport in an interview published online late on Tuesday.

"After so many disagreements, I would like to put an end to it," said Messi.

"We must unite all Barcelona's people and assume that the best is yet to come."

Messi referred to his attempt to force Barcelona to release him from the final year of his contract after the disastrous end to last season left the club without a trophy.

"I take responsibility for my mistakes, that, if they existed, were only to make a better and stronger FC Barcelona," said the Argentine.

"I wanted to send a message to all the club members and to all the fans. If any of them is bothered for a second by something I said or did, they should never doubt that I am always thinking about what is best for the club."

"Adding passion and desire will be the only way to achieve our objectives, always united and pulling in the same direction," said Messi, who last Friday criticised the way Barcelona had let Luis Suarez go saying "the truth is nothing surprises me anymore."

Lionel Messi called for "an end" to arguments at Barcelona as he urged unity at the club he tried to leave before the season. The Barcelona captain spoke to Barcelona newspaper Sport in an interview published online late on Tuesday.

Lionel Messi called for "an end" to arguments at Barcelona as he urged unity at the club he tried to leave before the season. The Barcelona captain spoke to Barcelona newspaper Sport in an interview published online late on Tuesday. "After so many disagreements, I would like to put an end to it," said Messi. "We must unite all Barcelona's people and assume that the best is yet to come." Messi referred to his attempt to force Barcelona to release him from the final year of his contract after the disastrous end to last season left the club without a trophy. "I take responsibility for my mistakes, that, if they existed, were only to make a better and stronger FC Barcelona," said the Argentine. "I wanted to send a message to all the club members and to all the fans. If any of them is bothered for a second by something I said or did, they should never doubt that I am always thinking about what is best for the club." "Adding passion and desire will be the only way to achieve our objectives, always united and pulling in the same direction," said Messi, who last Friday criticised the way Barcelona had let Luis Suarez go saying "the truth is nothing surprises me anymore."

Messi says he wants to 'put an end' to Barcelona feuding

Jose Mourinho believes players are being put in danger by the football authorities after Tottenham beat Chelsea 5-4 on penalties to progress to the quarter-finals of the League Cup after a 1-1 draw.

Mourinho's men were&nbsp;playing the second of four games in eight days in three different competitions.

Eric Dier was the only outfield player retained in the Tottenham team that started Sunday's 1-1 draw in the Premier League against Newcastle and the England defender had to dash from the field for a comfort break in the second-half.

"The number of minutes played is dangerous. What I did today with I Eric Dier today is very dangerous," said Mourinho, suggesting that dehydration could have led to the defender's problem.

"It should be forbidden to play two matches in 48 hours. What Eric Dier did is not human."

Timo Werner's first goal for Chelsea compounded Mourinho's woes in a dominant start from Frank Lampard's men.

But Erik Lamela deservedly levelled for Spurs seven minutes from time and new Chelsea goalkeeper Edouard Mendy was unable to stop Dier, Lamela, Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, Lucas Moura and Harry Kane scoring from the spot.

Tammy Abraham, Cesar Azpilicueta, Jorginho and Emerson also converted their penalties as the first nine of the shootout were successful.

But Mason Mount's effort clipped the post to the delight of the watching Gareth Bale, who could be fit to feature in the last eight with the quarter-finals not till late December.

"Anything can happen on penalties," said Lampard. "You want to stay in these competitions of course but there's lots to like. We dominated the first half but the game changed (in the second-half)."

Mourinho claimed the fixture pile up gave him no choice but to prioritise Thursday's Europa League tie against Maccabi Haifa given the financial incentive on offer for the club.

"I told the players they should only think about this game, but I have to think about three games," added Mourinho, who faces another of his former clubs Manchester United in the Premier League on Sunday.

"I cannot believe in 48 hours we are playing a European game. The boys were absolutely phenomenal."

Lampard made eight changes, but Werner was one of those retained from the 3-3 draw at West Brom on Saturday and he took the opportunity to get his first goal for the club after a big money move from RB Leipzig.

Tottenham debutant Sergio Reguilon was twice at fault in the build up as he gifted possession to Azpilicueta and then dived in trying to block the Spaniard's cross, which allowed the Chelsea captain to pick out Werner at the edge of the box to arrow a shot into the bottom corner.

Lampard had won his previous three meetings against his former manager Mourinho and the tensions between the two flared during the first-half as they exchanged angry words on the touchline.

On the field, Spurs were the better side as Mendy made important saves from Lamela and Reguilon either side of half-time.

Mourinho showed his intent by introducing Kane from the bench with 20 minutes to go.

Moments later the Portuguese was marching down the tunnel after Dier as the defender made a dash to the dressing room before quickly returning.

Chelsea did not make the most of a brief period with an extra man as Callum Hudson-Odoi fired over and Werner's fierce effort was saved by Lloris.

"He wasn't happy but there was nothing I could do about it, nature was calling," said Dier of being pursued by Mourinho. "I heard there was a chance, but thankfully they didn't score."

Chelsea were punished when Lamela slotted home at the far post from Reguilon's cross to send the game to a shootout and ultimately Spurs into the last eight.

Jose Mourinho believes players are being put in danger by the football authorities after Tottenham beat Chelsea 5-4 on penalties to progress to the quarter-finals of the League Cup after a 1-1 draw.

Jose Mourinho believes players are being put in danger by the football authorities after Tottenham beat Chelsea 5-4 on penalties to progress to the quarter-finals of the League Cup after a 1-1 draw. Mourinho's men were playing the second of four games in eight days in three different competitions. Eric Dier was the only outfield player retained in the Tottenham team that started Sunday's 1-1 draw in the Premier League against Newcastle and the England defender had to dash from the field for a comfort break in the second-half. "The number of minutes played is dangerous. What I did today with I Eric Dier today is very dangerous," said Mourinho, suggesting that dehydration could have led to the defender's problem. "It should be forbidden to play two matches in 48 hours. What Eric Dier did is not human." Timo Werner's first goal for Chelsea compounded Mourinho's woes in a dominant start from Frank Lampard's men. But Erik Lamela deservedly levelled for Spurs seven minutes from time and new Chelsea goalkeeper Edouard Mendy was unable to stop Dier, Lamela, Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, Lucas Moura and Harry Kane scoring from the spot. Tammy Abraham, Cesar Azpilicueta, Jorginho and Emerson also converted their penalties as the first nine of the shootout were successful. But Mason Mount's effort clipped the post to the delight of the watching Gareth Bale, who could be fit to feature in the last eight with the quarter-finals not till late December. "Anything can happen on penalties," said Lampard. "You want to stay in these competitions of course but there's lots to like. We dominated the first half but the game changed (in the second-half)." Mourinho claimed the fixture pile up gave him no choice but to prioritise Thursday's Europa League tie against Maccabi Haifa given the financial incentive on offer for the club. "I told the players they should only think about this game, but I have to think about three games," added Mourinho, who faces another of his former clubs Manchester United in the Premier League on Sunday. "I cannot believe in 48 hours we are playing a European game. The boys were absolutely phenomenal." Lampard made eight changes, but Werner was one of those retained from the 3-3 draw at West Brom on Saturday and he took the opportunity to get his first goal for the club after a big money move from RB Leipzig. Tottenham debutant Sergio Reguilon was twice at fault in the build up as he gifted possession to Azpilicueta and then dived in trying to block the Spaniard's cross, which allowed the Chelsea captain to pick out Werner at the edge of the box to arrow a shot into the bottom corner. Lampard had won his previous three meetings against his former manager Mourinho and the tensions between the two flared during the first-half as they exchanged angry words on the touchline. On the field, Spurs were the better side as Mendy made important saves from Lamela and Reguilon either side of half-time. Mourinho showed his intent by introducing Kane from the bench with 20 minutes to go. Moments later the Portuguese was marching down the tunnel after Dier as the defender made a dash to the dressing room before quickly returning. Chelsea did not make the most of a brief period with an extra man as Callum Hudson-Odoi fired over and Werner's fierce effort was saved by Lloris. "He wasn't happy but there was nothing I could do about it, nature was calling," said Dier of being pursued by Mourinho. "I heard there was a chance, but thankfully they didn't score." Chelsea were punished when Lamela slotted home at the far post from Reguilon's cross to send the game to a shootout and ultimately Spurs into the last eight.

Mourinho bemoans 'dangerous' schedule as Spurs see off Chelsea

Rafael Nadal looks to build on a promising start to his quest to match Roger Federer's 20 Grand Slam titles at the French Open on Wednesday while Serena Williams faces a familiar foe in round two of her latest push to equal Margaret Court's all-time mark.

Top seed and women's favourite Simona Halep puts her 15-match winning streak on the line as she targets another run at a second Roland Garros crown in three years.

Nadal needs one more major to pull level with long-time rival Federer and owns an astonishing 94-2 record in Paris going back to his triumph on debut in 2005.

The Spaniard showed little trouble in handling the heavier conditions in his opening win over Egor Gerasimov at a tournament postponed four months by the coronavirus pandemic.

However, the 34-year-old is wary of an untimely slip-up having made serene progress on his return to action in Rome before running aground in the quarter-finals.&nbsp;

"Six months without playing a single tennis match is not easy," said 12-time French Open winner Nadal, who touched down in Paris without a clay title to his name for the first time.

"I said in Rome when I played the first two matches well, I said, 'Okay, don't believe things are going to be like this.'&nbsp;

"I know how difficult are the comebacks. I had to stop playing tennis for more than two months, so situation is difficult. It's normal, some up and downs."

A first-time opponent again awaits Nadal in 236th-ranked American Mackenzie McDonald, whose lone tour win this season came against Yusutaka Uchiyama at Delray Beach in February.

In the women's draw, Williams heads into another encounter with Tsvetana Pironkova after the pair squared off in the last eight of the US Open earlier this month.

&nbsp;

<h2>- Serena braces for 'long match' -</h2>

&nbsp;

Williams came from a set down in New York to beat fellow mother Pironkova, in the Bulgarian's first tournament appearance since the 2017 Wimbledon championships.

"She's playing well, but I am too," said Williams, imploring herself to play with more confidence after a slow start against Kristie Ahn in round one.

"I'm ready to play her. She'll be ready to play me. It will be a long match, she will get a lot of balls back, but so will I. I'll be ready."

Williams, seeded sixth, is still chasing an elusive 24th Slam title, but clay is her least successful surface.

She has not gone beyond the last 16 in Paris since her defeat to Garbine Muguruza in the 2016 final. Her last major came at the 2017 Australian Open while pregnant.

With defending champion Ashleigh Barty skipping the event over Covid-19 concerns, world number two Halep appears well set for a tilt at a third major.

She battles fellow Romanian Irina-Camelia Begu on Court Suzanne Lenglen, having been spared the grim weather by playing under the new retractable roof in her opener.&nbsp;

Halep has won each of her past three tournaments, resuming the interrupted season with titles on clay in Prague and Rome following her victory at Dubai in February.

US Open champion Dominic Thiem plays American qualifier Jack Sock, a former top 10 player, in the second round while 2015 French Open winner Stan Wawrinka takes on Dominik Koepfer following his mauling of Andy Murray.

Elina Svitolina faces Renata Zarazua, Mexico's first representative in the main draw of a Slam in 20 years, with Victoria Azarenka meeting Anna Karolina Schmiedlova.

Sixth seed Alexander Zverev will come up against Pierre-Hugues Herbert in the final match scheduled on Court Philippe Chatrier.

Rafael Nadal looks to build on a promising start to his quest to match Roger Federer's 20 Grand Slam titles at the French Open on Wednesday while Serena Williams faces a familiar foe in round two of her latest push to equal Margaret Court's all-time mark.

Rafael Nadal looks to build on a promising start to his quest to match Roger Federer's 20 Grand Slam titles at the French Open on Wednesday while Serena Williams faces a familiar foe in round two of her latest push to equal Margaret Court's all-time mark. Top seed and women's favourite Simona Halep puts her 15-match winning streak on the line as she targets another run at a second Roland Garros crown in three years. Nadal needs one more major to pull level with long-time rival Federer and owns an astonishing 94-2 record in Paris going back to his triumph on debut in 2005. The Spaniard showed little trouble in handling the heavier conditions in his opening win over Egor Gerasimov at a tournament postponed four months by the coronavirus pandemic. However, the 34-year-old is wary of an untimely slip-up having made serene progress on his return to action in Rome before running aground in the quarter-finals. "Six months without playing a single tennis match is not easy," said 12-time French Open winner Nadal, who touched down in Paris without a clay title to his name for the first time. "I said in Rome when I played the first two matches well, I said, 'Okay, don't believe things are going to be like this.' "I know how difficult are the comebacks. I had to stop playing tennis for more than two months, so situation is difficult. It's normal, some up and downs." A first-time opponent again awaits Nadal in 236th-ranked American Mackenzie McDonald, whose lone tour win this season came against Yusutaka Uchiyama at Delray Beach in February. In the women's draw, Williams heads into another encounter with Tsvetana Pironkova after the pair squared off in the last eight of the US Open earlier this month. - Serena braces for 'long match' - Williams came from a set down in New York to beat fellow mother Pironkova, in the Bulgarian's first tournament appearance since the 2017 Wimbledon championships. "She's playing well, but I am too," said Williams, imploring herself to play with more confidence after a slow start against Kristie Ahn in round one. "I'm ready to play her. She'll be ready to play me. It will be a long match, she will get a lot of balls back, but so will I. I'll be ready." Williams, seeded sixth, is still chasing an elusive 24th Slam title, but clay is her least successful surface. She has not gone beyond the last 16 in Paris since her defeat to Garbine Muguruza in the 2016 final. Her last major came at the 2017 Australian Open while pregnant. With defending champion Ashleigh Barty skipping the event over Covid-19 concerns, world number two Halep appears well set for a tilt at a third major. She battles fellow Romanian Irina-Camelia Begu on Court Suzanne Lenglen, having been spared the grim weather by playing under the new retractable roof in her opener. Halep has won each of her past three tournaments, resuming the interrupted season with titles on clay in Prague and Rome following her victory at Dubai in February. US Open champion Dominic Thiem plays American qualifier Jack Sock, a former top 10 player, in the second round while 2015 French Open winner Stan Wawrinka takes on Dominik Koepfer following his mauling of Andy Murray. Elina Svitolina faces Renata Zarazua, Mexico's first representative in the main draw of a Slam in 20 years, with Victoria Azarenka meeting Anna Karolina Schmiedlova. Sixth seed Alexander Zverev will come up against Pierre-Hugues Herbert in the final match scheduled on Court Philippe Chatrier.

Nadal, Serena on guard at French Open as Halep plays compatriot

An emotional Rashid Khan dedicated his man-of-the-match performance to his mother, who died earlier this year, after he bowled Sunrisers Hyderabad to their first win of the Indian Premier League.

The Afghan leg-spinner took 3-14 from his four overs to restrict Delhi Capitals to 147 for seven in their chase of 163, handing Hyderabad a win by 15 runs in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday.

Khan, who tops the world Twenty20 bowling rankings, said his mother was his "biggest fan".

"Tough one-and-a-half years for me, first my dad expired and then my mom three-four months ago," said the 22-year-old.

"And it took a bit of time for me to come back. My mom was my biggest fan, especially in the IPL and when I was the man of the match, she would always talk to me through the night."

Khan, one of 12 siblings, made his debut for Afghanistan in 2015 and has emerged as a key figure in the war-torn nation's rise as a cricketing force.

The in-demand bowler has travelled the world to take part in leagues including Australia's Big Bash, the Caribbean Premier League and the Pakistan Super League.

Hyderabad skipper David Warner was all praise for the "outstanding" spinner who stood out with an economy rate of 3.50.

"Rash is Rash, he knows what he has to do and the way he came out and delivered tonight was exceptionally great," said Warner.

"He knew he had a big role tonight with young (spinner) Abhishek (Sharma) at the other end. Extra bit of pressure for Rash, (but) he held is nerve and was outstanding."

Warner contributed with a gritty 45 and a 77-run opening stand with England's Jonny Bairstow, who top-scored with 53, in Hyderabad's 162 for four after being put in to bat first.

New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson also played a key role after hitting a 26-ball 41 in his first game of the season for the 2016 IPL champions, who lost their opening two matches in the United Arab Emirates.

An emotional Rashid Khan dedicated his man-of-the-match performance to his mother, who died earlier this year, after he bowled Sunrisers Hyderabad to their first win of the Indian Premier League.

An emotional Rashid Khan dedicated his man-of-the-match performance to his mother, who died earlier this year, after he bowled Sunrisers Hyderabad to their first win of the Indian Premier League. The Afghan leg-spinner took 3-14 from his four overs to restrict Delhi Capitals to 147 for seven in their chase of 163, handing Hyderabad a win by 15 runs in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday. Khan, who tops the world Twenty20 bowling rankings, said his mother was his "biggest fan". "Tough one-and-a-half years for me, first my dad expired and then my mom three-four months ago," said the 22-year-old. "And it took a bit of time for me to come back. My mom was my biggest fan, especially in the IPL and when I was the man of the match, she would always talk to me through the night." Khan, one of 12 siblings, made his debut for Afghanistan in 2015 and has emerged as a key figure in the war-torn nation's rise as a cricketing force. The in-demand bowler has travelled the world to take part in leagues including Australia's Big Bash, the Caribbean Premier League and the Pakistan Super League. Hyderabad skipper David Warner was all praise for the "outstanding" spinner who stood out with an economy rate of 3.50. "Rash is Rash, he knows what he has to do and the way he came out and delivered tonight was exceptionally great," said Warner. "He knew he had a big role tonight with young (spinner) Abhishek (Sharma) at the other end. Extra bit of pressure for Rash, (but) he held is nerve and was outstanding." Warner contributed with a gritty 45 and a 77-run opening stand with England's Jonny Bairstow, who top-scored with 53, in Hyderabad's 162 for four after being put in to bat first. New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson also played a key role after hitting a 26-ball 41 in his first game of the season for the 2016 IPL champions, who lost their opening two matches in the United Arab Emirates.

Spin hero Rashid Khan pays tribute to late mother, his 'biggest fan'

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