Virat Kohli's Royal Challengers Bangalore are set to lock horns with David Warner's Sunrisers Hyderabad in the third match of Indian Premier League at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Monday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-sunrisers-hyderabad-vs-royal-challengers-bangalore-preview-stats-players-to-watchout-for-329134" hreflang="en">IPL 2020- Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Royal Challengers Bangalore: Preview, stats, players to watchout for</a>

Talking about the head-to-head stats, SRH and RCB have faced each other 15 times in the IPL so far and the Hyderabad-based team currently leads the head-to-head 8-6. One match was abandoned due to rain.&nbsp;

Both the teams will heavily rely on their bowlers this season as it is not easy scoring in Dubai International Stadium and a score of around 160-170 is expected from the match. The team batting second have found it very difficult to chase the scores on this ground in recent years.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<h2>Where will the IPL 2020 match between&nbsp;Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) vs&nbsp;Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) take place?</h2>

The IPL 2020 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) vs&nbsp;Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) will take place at Dubai International Stadium in Dubai.

<h2>What time will the IPL 2020 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) vs&nbsp;Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) begin?</h2>

The IPL 2020 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) vs&nbsp;Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) begins at 7:30 PM IST on Monday (September 21).

<h2>How to watch live IPL 2020 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) vs&nbsp;Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH)?</h2>

The IPL 2020 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) vs&nbsp;Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) 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 Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) vs&nbsp;Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) match online?</h2>

The online live streaming of the IPL 2020 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) vs&nbsp;Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) will be available at Hotstar. You can also latest updates of the IPL 2020 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) vs&nbsp;Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) match at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl">WION</a>.

Virat Kohli's Royal Challengers Bangalore are set to lock horns with David Warner's Sunrisers Hyderabad in the third match of Indian Premier League at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Monday.

Virat Kohli's Royal Challengers Bangalore are set to lock horns with David Warner's Sunrisers Hyderabad in the third match of Indian Premier League at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Monday. Also read: IPL 2020- Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Royal Challengers Bangalore: Preview, stats, players to watchout for Talking about the head-to-head stats, SRH and RCB have faced each other 15 times in the IPL so far and the Hyderabad-based team currently leads the head-to-head 8-6. One match was abandoned due to rain. Both the teams will heavily rely on their bowlers this season as it is not easy scoring in Dubai International Stadium and a score of around 160-170 is expected from the match. The team batting second have found it very difficult to chase the scores on this ground in recent years. Where will the IPL 2020 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) vs Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) take place? The IPL 2020 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) vs Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) will take place at Dubai International Stadium in Dubai. What time will the IPL 2020 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) vs Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) begin? The IPL 2020 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) vs Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) begins at 7:30 PM IST on Monday (September 21). How to watch live IPL 2020 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) vs Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH)? The IPL 2020 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) vs Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) 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 Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) vs Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) match online? The online live streaming of the IPL 2020 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) vs Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) will be available at Hotstar. You can also latest updates of the IPL 2020 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) vs Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) match at WION.

SRH vs RCB, IPL 2020 Live Streaming: When and where to watch Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Royal Challengers Bangalore?

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer blamed a lack of preparation time for Manchester United's dreadful start to the Premier League season as Wilfried Zaha scored twice against his former club to hand Crystal Palace a 3-1 win at Old Trafford on Saturday.

United ended the 2019/20 season little over a month ago due to their run to the Europa League semi-finals and had just two weeks pre-season training together.

"You can see we are short (of match fitness) and they deserved the points. They were sharper than us in the challenges," said Solskjaer.

"You can't be too surprised we are not at our best yet because this is the first game we've played since the middle of August. We have had a very short and strange pre-season. We need to improve and we need to improve quickly."

United finished last season on a 14-match unbeaten run in the Premier League to secure a third-place finish and raise hopes of mounting a title challenge to rivals Liverpool and Manchester City this season.

But on this evidence they need far more than the solitary signing of Donny Van de Beek, who scored on his debut, to compete at the top of the table.

Solskjaer, though, refused to use a lack of new signings as an excuse for such a slow start.

"If you look at the players we have on the pitch and on the bench today, we need to look within first and know we have to perform better," he added.&nbsp;

"We are always looking to improve if there is something out there available at the right price. But we can all look ourselves in the mirror today instead."

Palace have now won their first two games of a Premier League season for the first time and on their last two visits to United.

"When we had the ball I thought we looked very dangerous and threatening so I don't think it was a big surprise that we scored three," said Palace boss Roy Hodgson.

Solskjaer kept faith with David De Gea in goal ahead of Dean Henderson, who has returned to Old Trafford from an impressive loan spell at Sheffield United.

But the Spanish international was beaten after just seven minutes as the United defence was carved open by Jeffrey Schlupp's run and cross from the left and Andros Townsend ghosted in ahead of Luke Shaw to convert at the far post.

Zaha failed to make the grade in two seasons at United, but with Alex Ferguson, the man who signed him in 2013, in attendance, he showed why remains in such high demand.

The Ivorian's first goal of the afternoon was ruled out by the offside flag early in the second-half from another promising Palace counter-attack.

But from Palace's next break they got their reward as Ayew's shot struck Victor Lindelof on the arm and, after reviewing the pitchside monitor, referee Martin Atkinson pointed to the penalty spot.

De Gea saved Ayew's first penalty, but after another interruption from VAR, the spot-kick was retaken for De Gea being millimetres off his line when the ball was struck.

Zaha took over the responsibility and this time crashed the ball home for his second goal of the season.

Van de Beek came off the bench to replace the ineffective Paul Pogba and showed his goalscoring instinct from midfield by latching onto a loose ball inside the area to halve United's arrears 10 minutes from time.

But just five minutes later the game was killed as a contest when Zaha shrugged off Lindelof with ease before blasting low and hard past De Gea.

"When you come here you need to show you are going to play on the front foot and not just defend and let them do what they want on the ball," added Hodgson. "We started in the right way and finished in the right way."

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer blamed a lack of preparation time for Manchester United's dreadful start to the Premier League season as Wilfried Zaha scored twice against his former club to hand Crystal Palace a 3-1 win at Old Trafford on Saturday.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer blamed a lack of preparation time for Manchester United's dreadful start to the Premier League season as Wilfried Zaha scored twice against his former club to hand Crystal Palace a 3-1 win at Old Trafford on Saturday. United ended the 2019/20 season little over a month ago due to their run to the Europa League semi-finals and had just two weeks pre-season training together. "You can see we are short (of match fitness) and they deserved the points. They were sharper than us in the challenges," said Solskjaer. "You can't be too surprised we are not at our best yet because this is the first game we've played since the middle of August. We have had a very short and strange pre-season. We need to improve and we need to improve quickly." United finished last season on a 14-match unbeaten run in the Premier League to secure a third-place finish and raise hopes of mounting a title challenge to rivals Liverpool and Manchester City this season. But on this evidence they need far more than the solitary signing of Donny Van de Beek, who scored on his debut, to compete at the top of the table. Solskjaer, though, refused to use a lack of new signings as an excuse for such a slow start. "If you look at the players we have on the pitch and on the bench today, we need to look within first and know we have to perform better," he added. "We are always looking to improve if there is something out there available at the right price. But we can all look ourselves in the mirror today instead." Palace have now won their first two games of a Premier League season for the first time and on their last two visits to United. "When we had the ball I thought we looked very dangerous and threatening so I don't think it was a big surprise that we scored three," said Palace boss Roy Hodgson. Solskjaer kept faith with David De Gea in goal ahead of Dean Henderson, who has returned to Old Trafford from an impressive loan spell at Sheffield United. But the Spanish international was beaten after just seven minutes as the United defence was carved open by Jeffrey Schlupp's run and cross from the left and Andros Townsend ghosted in ahead of Luke Shaw to convert at the far post. Zaha failed to make the grade in two seasons at United, but with Alex Ferguson, the man who signed him in 2013, in attendance, he showed why remains in such high demand. The Ivorian's first goal of the afternoon was ruled out by the offside flag early in the second-half from another promising Palace counter-attack. But from Palace's next break they got their reward as Ayew's shot struck Victor Lindelof on the arm and, after reviewing the pitchside monitor, referee Martin Atkinson pointed to the penalty spot. De Gea saved Ayew's first penalty, but after another interruption from VAR, the spot-kick was retaken for De Gea being millimetres off his line when the ball was struck. Zaha took over the responsibility and this time crashed the ball home for his second goal of the season. Van de Beek came off the bench to replace the ineffective Paul Pogba and showed his goalscoring instinct from midfield by latching onto a loose ball inside the area to halve United's arrears 10 minutes from time. But just five minutes later the game was killed as a contest when Zaha shrugged off Lindelof with ease before blasting low and hard past De Gea. "When you come here you need to show you are going to play on the front foot and not just defend and let them do what they want on the ball," added Hodgson. "We started in the right way and finished in the right way."

Zaha double hands Man Utd dreadful Premier League start

Mikel Arteta praised Arsenal's mental strength to strike late through Eddie Nketiah and beat West Ham 2-1 despite an underwhelming performance at the Emirates.

The Gunners move level with Everton and Crystal Palace on maximum points at the top of the table after two games, but were far from the standards they have set under Arteta.

After Michail Antonio cancelled out Alexandre Lacazette's opener for the hosts, West Ham enjoyed the majority of the chances.

Antonio saw a second-half header come back off the bar, but Arsenal were ruthless with their chance to win the game as Dani Ceballos timed his run perfectly in behind the West Ham defence to square for Nketiah, who had the simple task of rolling into an empty net.

"I am really happy with the three points and it's a time to analyse properly because we have a lot of issues," said Arteta.

"What I like is the approach the boys had in the last 25 minutes where I could see they were a bit down and then they lift it and probably a few months ago we would have drawn or lost that game and today we win it.

"In the end you have to find a way because there will be games like this through the season."

After winning the FA Cup and Community Shield and starting their season with a flourish by winning 3-0 at Fulham on the opening weekend, Arsenal were expected to swot aside a West Ham team that were easily beaten by Newcastle a week ago.

But David Moyes's men deserved something to show for their performance and felt hard done by with some decisions that went against them.

After a relatively trouble free first weekend of the season for VAR reviews, the inconsistent application of what constitutes handball reared its head on Saturday.

Manchester United's Victor Lindelof was penalised for handling inside the box during his side's 3-1 home defeat to Crystal Palace, but West Ham were not awarded a penalty for what seemed a much more obvious handball from Gabriel Magalhaes early on.

"I definitely think we should have had a penalty," said Moyes. "But we don't know the rules, really, do we?"

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang committed his future to Arsenal earlier this week by signing a new three-year contract and the Gunners' prolific goalscorer was the creator for the opening goal as he just managed to stay onside from Bukayo Saka's pass before crossing for Lacazette to power a header home.

That was the only clear opening the hosts created before half-time and West Ham levelled just before the break when Antonio outmuscled Rob Holding to turn home Ryan Fredericks's inviting cross.

Antonio was a constant menace to the Arsenal defence and came close twice more in the second period.

Gabriel just did enough to take the sting out of his first effort for Bernd Leno to save on the line before Antonio powered a header back off the crossbar.

And West Ham were made to rue those missed chances as Arsenal were clinical with their only clear sight of goal in the second-half.

"Not to be rewarded with some points tonight is really hard on us," added Moyes. "For us just to turn off in the last five minutes, it's criminal."

Ceballos and Nketiah were involved in a spat during the warm-up at Craven Cottage last weekend, but showed they were back on the same wavelength as the Spanish midfielder unselfishly squared for the England under-21 international.

"We made up pretty quickly," said Nketiah. "That's what happens in life and it was nice for him to make the assist for me today, so it's all love.

Mikel Arteta praised Arsenal's mental strength to strike late through Eddie Nketiah and beat West Ham 2-1 despite an underwhelming performance at the Emirates. The Gunners move level with Everton and Crystal Palace on maximum points at the top of the table after two games, but were far from the standards they have set under Arteta.

Mikel Arteta praised Arsenal's mental strength to strike late through Eddie Nketiah and beat West Ham 2-1 despite an underwhelming performance at the Emirates. The Gunners move level with Everton and Crystal Palace on maximum points at the top of the table after two games, but were far from the standards they have set under Arteta. After Michail Antonio cancelled out Alexandre Lacazette's opener for the hosts, West Ham enjoyed the majority of the chances. Antonio saw a second-half header come back off the bar, but Arsenal were ruthless with their chance to win the game as Dani Ceballos timed his run perfectly in behind the West Ham defence to square for Nketiah, who had the simple task of rolling into an empty net. "I am really happy with the three points and it's a time to analyse properly because we have a lot of issues," said Arteta. "What I like is the approach the boys had in the last 25 minutes where I could see they were a bit down and then they lift it and probably a few months ago we would have drawn or lost that game and today we win it. "In the end you have to find a way because there will be games like this through the season." After winning the FA Cup and Community Shield and starting their season with a flourish by winning 3-0 at Fulham on the opening weekend, Arsenal were expected to swot aside a West Ham team that were easily beaten by Newcastle a week ago. But David Moyes's men deserved something to show for their performance and felt hard done by with some decisions that went against them. After a relatively trouble free first weekend of the season for VAR reviews, the inconsistent application of what constitutes handball reared its head on Saturday. Manchester United's Victor Lindelof was penalised for handling inside the box during his side's 3-1 home defeat to Crystal Palace, but West Ham were not awarded a penalty for what seemed a much more obvious handball from Gabriel Magalhaes early on. "I definitely think we should have had a penalty," said Moyes. "But we don't know the rules, really, do we?" Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang committed his future to Arsenal earlier this week by signing a new three-year contract and the Gunners' prolific goalscorer was the creator for the opening goal as he just managed to stay onside from Bukayo Saka's pass before crossing for Lacazette to power a header home. That was the only clear opening the hosts created before half-time and West Ham levelled just before the break when Antonio outmuscled Rob Holding to turn home Ryan Fredericks's inviting cross. Antonio was a constant menace to the Arsenal defence and came close twice more in the second period. Gabriel just did enough to take the sting out of his first effort for Bernd Leno to save on the line before Antonio powered a header back off the crossbar. And West Ham were made to rue those missed chances as Arsenal were clinical with their only clear sight of goal in the second-half. "Not to be rewarded with some points tonight is really hard on us," added Moyes. "For us just to turn off in the last five minutes, it's criminal." Ceballos and Nketiah were involved in a spat during the warm-up at Craven Cottage last weekend, but showed they were back on the same wavelength as the Spanish midfielder unselfishly squared for the England under-21 international. "We made up pretty quickly," said Nketiah. "That's what happens in life and it was nice for him to make the assist for me today, so it's all love.

Arsenal strike late to beat wasteful West Ham

Rafael Nadal warned he knew how to fix his errors before his French Open title defence after crashing in the quarter-finals of the Rome Masters on Saturday, the final warm-up before Roland Garros.

The nine-time Rome winner slumped 6-2, 7-5 on a humid night in the Italian capital to Argentine Diego Schwartzman, a player the second seed had beaten in all nine of their previous clashes.

It was Nadal's last chance to tune-up before his bid for a 13th French Open, and record-equalling 20th Grand Slam to match Roger Federer in just over a week.

"It's a completely special and unpredictable year," said the 34-year-old.

"I'll probably go back home and then let's see what's going on. I did my job here.&nbsp;

"I fought until the end. But losing that many serves, you can't expect to win a match.

"Something that I have to fix. I know how to do it.&nbsp;

"I'm going to keep working and keep practising with the right attitude and try to give me a chance to be ready.

"I did a couple of things well and other things bad. And that's it. At least I played three matches."

The two-time defending champion was making his comeback after a long coronavirus-enforced break having skipped the US Open.

Nadal beat fellow Spaniard Pablo Carreno Busta, a US Open semi-finalist, 6-1, 6-1 in his first match this week followed by Serb Dusan Lajovic 6-1, 6-3.

But Schwartzman pulled out a stunning performance to leave Nadal with no answer.

"After such a long time without competing, I played good two matches, and now today I played a bad one against a good opponent," said Nadal.

"It was not my night, at all," he said.&nbsp;

"Then we have to think internally why, how I can fix it."

Schwartzman, with just three career titles to Nadal's 85, said he had come close a few times to beating the Spaniard.

"I think four or five times I was close enough to feel like maybe if I play my best tennis I'm going to have chances," said the world number 15.&nbsp;

"Also, he was coming back this tournament after seven months, more or less, eight months.&nbsp;

"And I was thinking, OK, tennis, sometimes it's really crazy and I was not playing good, but today maybe I have the chance."

Rafael Nadal warned he knew how to fix his errors before his French Open title defence after crashing in the quarter-finals of the Rome Masters on Saturday, the final warm-up before Roland Garros.

Rafael Nadal warned he knew how to fix his errors before his French Open title defence after crashing in the quarter-finals of the Rome Masters on Saturday, the final warm-up before Roland Garros. The nine-time Rome winner slumped 6-2, 7-5 on a humid night in the Italian capital to Argentine Diego Schwartzman, a player the second seed had beaten in all nine of their previous clashes. It was Nadal's last chance to tune-up before his bid for a 13th French Open, and record-equalling 20th Grand Slam to match Roger Federer in just over a week. "It's a completely special and unpredictable year," said the 34-year-old. "I'll probably go back home and then let's see what's going on. I did my job here. "I fought until the end. But losing that many serves, you can't expect to win a match. "Something that I have to fix. I know how to do it. "I'm going to keep working and keep practising with the right attitude and try to give me a chance to be ready. "I did a couple of things well and other things bad. And that's it. At least I played three matches." The two-time defending champion was making his comeback after a long coronavirus-enforced break having skipped the US Open. Nadal beat fellow Spaniard Pablo Carreno Busta, a US Open semi-finalist, 6-1, 6-1 in his first match this week followed by Serb Dusan Lajovic 6-1, 6-3. But Schwartzman pulled out a stunning performance to leave Nadal with no answer. "After such a long time without competing, I played good two matches, and now today I played a bad one against a good opponent," said Nadal. "It was not my night, at all," he said. "Then we have to think internally why, how I can fix it." Schwartzman, with just three career titles to Nadal's 85, said he had come close a few times to beating the Spaniard. "I think four or five times I was close enough to feel like maybe if I play my best tennis I'm going to have chances," said the world number 15. "Also, he was coming back this tournament after seven months, more or less, eight months. "And I was thinking, OK, tennis, sometimes it's really crazy and I was not playing good, but today maybe I have the chance."

'I know how to fix it:' Nadal stunned in Rome before French Open title defence

Pep Guardiola faces a stern test of his managerial philosophy as the Manchester City boss aims to overhaul Premier League champions Liverpool this season.

After an extra week of rest due to their involvement in the latter stages of last season's Champions League, Guardiola's side start their Premier League campaign with a tricky trip to Wolves on Monday.

It is exactly the kind of fixture that proved fatal to City's hopes of retaining the title last season.

They were beaten twice by Wolves, eventually losing nine league games and finishing a massive 18 points behind Liverpool.

Guardiola knows City cannot afford so many unexpected stumbles this season if they are to end Liverpool's reign.

But the Spaniard himself might need to look in the mirror as he contemplates the reasons for City's steep decline.

His inability to fix City's defensive problems and constant tinkering with his midfield and attack seemed to spread confusion and frustration among his squad.

Only Kevin De Bruyne enjoyed a transcendent season for City and the Belgian midfield maestro could not carry his team all alone.

Guardiola's positional switches destabilised City again in their shock Champions League quarter-final loss to Lyon in August.

Throw in Arsenal's FA Cup semi-final win over City, in which Gunners boss Mikel Arteta out-witted his former mentor, and it is easy to see why some are questioning Guardiola's ability to take his team back to the top.

City have the quality in their squad to beat anyone -- as they showed in a 4-0 rout of Liverpool last season -- but does Guardiola have the hunger and ability to make it happen on a consistent basis?

&nbsp;

<h2>- 'No complaints' -</h2>

&nbsp;

Luring Lionel Messi from Barcelona would have boosted to City's title prospects, but the Argentine superstar was eventually forced to end his attempt to reunite with former boss Guardiola.

Instead, City have brought in Dutch defender Nathan Ake and Spanish winger Ferran Torres, while Napoli centre-back Kalidou Koulibaly reportedly remains a target.

Guardiola insists he will not complain if those are his only new signings, despite the heavy spending of title rivals Chelsea and Liverpool's swoop for Bayern Munich star Thiago Alcantara.

"Since day one, since I arrived here, I've been more than satisfied with the team and the club does everything to do their best, not just for me, but for the team," Guardiola said.

"What is going to happen is going to happen. If we have to stay with the players (we have) I'll be happy, or if we have to move someone (on) - because sometimes it is the player that decides to leave.

"I've never before, or in the future will I complain. I'm lucky to have these players and be in this club."

City's failure to replace Vincent Kompany last year proved hugely detrimental and his absence was compounded by a long-term injury to Aymeric Laporte.&nbsp;

City's title defence faltered early on and they were never able to produce a strong challenge to Liverpool.

With Laporte an unlikely starter at Molineux, having only returned to training on Friday following a positive Covid-19 test earlier this month, former Bournemouth defender Ake seems certain to make his debut, while Torres is also in contention.

"So far really, it is really good. What we have to do, all the players and staff, and all the people close, is to help them to settle as quickly as possible," Guardiola said.

"And the most important thing is they are two nice people and it's good to have them with us."

City's record goalscorer Sergio Aguero is still recovering from the knee surgery that has sidelined him since June and could be two months away from a return.

Pep Guardiola faces a stern test of his managerial philosophy as the Manchester City boss aims to overhaul Premier League champions Liverpool this season. After an extra week of rest due to their involvement in the latter stages of last season's Champions League, Guardiola's side start their Premier League campaign with a tricky trip to Wolves on Monday.

Pep Guardiola faces a stern test of his managerial philosophy as the Manchester City boss aims to overhaul Premier League champions Liverpool this season. After an extra week of rest due to their involvement in the latter stages of last season's Champions League, Guardiola's side start their Premier League campaign with a tricky trip to Wolves on Monday. It is exactly the kind of fixture that proved fatal to City's hopes of retaining the title last season. They were beaten twice by Wolves, eventually losing nine league games and finishing a massive 18 points behind Liverpool. Guardiola knows City cannot afford so many unexpected stumbles this season if they are to end Liverpool's reign. But the Spaniard himself might need to look in the mirror as he contemplates the reasons for City's steep decline. His inability to fix City's defensive problems and constant tinkering with his midfield and attack seemed to spread confusion and frustration among his squad. Only Kevin De Bruyne enjoyed a transcendent season for City and the Belgian midfield maestro could not carry his team all alone. Guardiola's positional switches destabilised City again in their shock Champions League quarter-final loss to Lyon in August. Throw in Arsenal's FA Cup semi-final win over City, in which Gunners boss Mikel Arteta out-witted his former mentor, and it is easy to see why some are questioning Guardiola's ability to take his team back to the top. City have the quality in their squad to beat anyone -- as they showed in a 4-0 rout of Liverpool last season -- but does Guardiola have the hunger and ability to make it happen on a consistent basis? - 'No complaints' - Luring Lionel Messi from Barcelona would have boosted to City's title prospects, but the Argentine superstar was eventually forced to end his attempt to reunite with former boss Guardiola. Instead, City have brought in Dutch defender Nathan Ake and Spanish winger Ferran Torres, while Napoli centre-back Kalidou Koulibaly reportedly remains a target. Guardiola insists he will not complain if those are his only new signings, despite the heavy spending of title rivals Chelsea and Liverpool's swoop for Bayern Munich star Thiago Alcantara. "Since day one, since I arrived here, I've been more than satisfied with the team and the club does everything to do their best, not just for me, but for the team," Guardiola said. "What is going to happen is going to happen. If we have to stay with the players (we have) I'll be happy, or if we have to move someone (on) - because sometimes it is the player that decides to leave. "I've never before, or in the future will I complain. I'm lucky to have these players and be in this club." City's failure to replace Vincent Kompany last year proved hugely detrimental and his absence was compounded by a long-term injury to Aymeric Laporte. City's title defence faltered early on and they were never able to produce a strong challenge to Liverpool. With Laporte an unlikely starter at Molineux, having only returned to training on Friday following a positive Covid-19 test earlier this month, former Bournemouth defender Ake seems certain to make his debut, while Torres is also in contention. "So far really, it is really good. What we have to do, all the players and staff, and all the people close, is to help them to settle as quickly as possible," Guardiola said. "And the most important thing is they are two nice people and it's good to have them with us." City's record goalscorer Sergio Aguero is still recovering from the knee surgery that has sidelined him since June and could be two months away from a return.

Guardiola must rise to challenge as Man City chase Liverpool

Leading cricketers from Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings have been slammed for their "healthy waistlines" during the opening match of the Indian Premier League in Abu Dhabi.

Some players were returning to professional cricket for the first time in six months after global sport was put on hold amid the spread of the coronavirus pandemic.

The virus-delayed Twenty20 tournament was postponed and then moved to the United Arab Emirates, with India's cricket-crazy fans&nbsp;watching Chennai outplay Mumbai on Saturday on their televisions and mobile phones.

Many expressed surprise at seeing top players including Mumbai skipper Rohit Sharma, batsman Saurabh Tiwary and Chennai spinner Piyush Chawla sporting a post-lockdown paunch.

"I have never played more than gully cricket but I am pretty shocked to see some players in the #IPL2020 looking so unfit," former India field hockey captain Viren Rasquinha wrote on Twitter.

"I can't think of another physical sport where players at the highest level could cope with these fitness levels."

Veteran commentator Harsha Bhogle tweeted that there were a "couple of healthy waistlines today".

Social media users joked that the cash-rich IPL was now the "India Paunch League".

"Indian Paunch League (IPL) looking at all the bulging waistlines..looks like a veterans series match..," one user tweeted.

Meanwhile Chennai skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni stood out with his bulging biceps on his return to the cricket field after more than a year on the sidelines.

The veteran wicketkeeper-batsman, who retired from international cricket last month, last played for India in their semi-final loss to New Zealand in the 2019 World Cup.

Fans swooned at their idol's body, with one user tweeting: "Dhoni looks WWE ready".

Leading cricketers from Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings have been slammed for their "healthy waistlines" during the opening match of the Indian Premier League in Abu Dhabi.

Leading cricketers from Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings have been slammed for their "healthy waistlines" during the opening match of the Indian Premier League in Abu Dhabi. Some players were returning to professional cricket for the first time in six months after global sport was put on hold amid the spread of the coronavirus pandemic. The virus-delayed Twenty20 tournament was postponed and then moved to the United Arab Emirates, with India's cricket-crazy fans watching Chennai outplay Mumbai on Saturday on their televisions and mobile phones. Many expressed surprise at seeing top players including Mumbai skipper Rohit Sharma, batsman Saurabh Tiwary and Chennai spinner Piyush Chawla sporting a post-lockdown paunch. "I have never played more than gully cricket but I am pretty shocked to see some players in the #IPL2020 looking so unfit," former India field hockey captain Viren Rasquinha wrote on Twitter. "I can't think of another physical sport where players at the highest level could cope with these fitness levels." Veteran commentator Harsha Bhogle tweeted that there were a "couple of healthy waistlines today". Social media users joked that the cash-rich IPL was now the "India Paunch League". "Indian Paunch League (IPL) looking at all the bulging waistlines..looks like a veterans series match..," one user tweeted. Meanwhile Chennai skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni stood out with his bulging biceps on his return to the cricket field after more than a year on the sidelines. The veteran wicketkeeper-batsman, who retired from international cricket last month, last played for India in their semi-final loss to New Zealand in the 2019 World Cup. Fans swooned at their idol's body, with one user tweeting: "Dhoni looks WWE ready".

'Indian Paunch League': Stars pilloried for 'healthy waistlines' in IPL opener

The season opener of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a> between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and defending champions Mumbai Indians (MI) at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Saturday was nothing short of a thriller. Ambati Rayudu made a sensational comeback to professional cricket as he smashed a match-winning 71 to help CSK bag their first win of the tournament.

Harbhajan Singh, who opted out of IPL 2020 due to personal reasons, has said that it was “injustice” that Rayudu was dropped from the Indian squad for the ICC World Cup 2019 while adding sometimes selectors need to keep aside age and look at the talent and form.&nbsp;

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While Faf du Plessis and Sam Curran played crucial knocks for CSK, it was Rayudu who stood tall despite struggling a bit after coming on early to bat.&nbsp;

Harbhajan told Sports Tak, "It will be less however much you appreciate Rayudu. I feel there was an injustice done to him when the World Cup team was picked. He should have been definitely there on that team. But he has shown again in this match, how much ability he has and that age is on one side and talent is also something that needs to be looked at."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-jos-buttler-to-miss-rajasthan-royals-season-opener-vs-csk-328900" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Jos Buttler to miss Rajasthan Royals' season opener vs CSK</a>

Harbhajan further praised the CSK bowling attack, especially Piyush Chawla, who restricted scoring by MI after the Rohit Sharma-led side went off to a flyer. "I would like to praise the bowling attack, the manner in which all the bowlers have bowled, especially Piyush Chawla, who conceded so few runs and took the big wicket of Rohit Sharma and restricted a big team like Mumbai Indians to a score of 162 runs.

CSK will next take on Rajasthan Royals at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium in Sharjah on Tuesday. 
&nbsp;

The season opener of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and defending champions Mumbai Indians (MI) at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Saturday was nothing short of a thriller.

The season opener of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and defending champions Mumbai Indians (MI) at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Saturday was nothing short of a thriller. Ambati Rayudu made a sensational comeback to professional cricket as he smashed a match-winning 71 to help CSK bag their first win of the tournament. Harbhajan Singh, who opted out of IPL 2020 due to personal reasons, has said that it was “injustice” that Rayudu was dropped from the Indian squad for the ICC World Cup 2019 while adding sometimes selectors need to keep aside age and look at the talent and form. Trending: IPL 2020: Action in pictures as 'grand festival' of cricket starts in UAE While Faf du Plessis and Sam Curran played crucial knocks for CSK, it was Rayudu who stood tall despite struggling a bit after coming on early to bat. Harbhajan told Sports Tak, "It will be less however much you appreciate Rayudu. I feel there was an injustice done to him when the World Cup team was picked. He should have been definitely there on that team. But he has shown again in this match, how much ability he has and that age is on one side and talent is also something that needs to be looked at." ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Jos Buttler to miss Rajasthan Royals' season opener vs CSK Harbhajan further praised the CSK bowling attack, especially Piyush Chawla, who restricted scoring by MI after the Rohit Sharma-led side went off to a flyer. "I would like to praise the bowling attack, the manner in which all the bowlers have bowled, especially Piyush Chawla, who conceded so few runs and took the big wicket of Rohit Sharma and restricted a big team like Mumbai Indians to a score of 162 runs. CSK will next take on Rajasthan Royals at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium in Sharjah on Tuesday.

Ambati Rayudu not being in World Cup squad was 'injustice', says Harbhajan Singh

Delhi Capitals (DC) will take on Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on Sunday as the action in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a> continues in full flow. Both DC and KXIP are exciting sides on paper which makes the encounter extremely promising.&nbsp;

Both DC and KXIP have had numerous nail-biters in IPL history and fans will hope they produce another thriller on Sunday.

While DC boast some big names like Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant, Shikhar Dhawan, Kagiso Rabada, Ravichandran Ashwin in the squad, KXIP have the likes of KL Rahul, Chris Gayle, Glenn Maxwell, Mohammed Shami, Chris Jordan among others.&nbsp;

The pitch will be not easy to bat on in Dubai and a score of around 160-170 is expected from the match between DC and KXIP.

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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/delhi-capitals-vs-kings-xi-punjab-preview-iyer-vs-rahul-in-dubai-as-exciting-sides-clash-328884">Delhi Capitals vs Kings XI Punjab Preview: Iyer vs Rahul in Dubai</a>

<h2>Where will the IPL 2020 match between Delhi Capitals (DC) vs Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) take place?</h2>

The IPL 2020 match between Delhi Capitals (DC) vs Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) will take place at Dubai International Stadium in Dubai.

<h2>What time will the IPL 2020 match between Delhi Capitals (DC) vs Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) begin?</h2>

The IPL 2020 match between Delhi Capitals (DC) vs Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) begins at 7:30 PM IST on Sunday (September 20).

<h2>How to watch live IPL 2020 match between Delhi Capitals (DC) vs Kings XI Punjab (KXIP)?</h2>

The IPL 2020 match between Delhi Capitals (DC) vs Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) 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 Delhi Capitals (DC) vs Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) match online?</h2>

The online live streaming of the IPL 2020 match between Delhi Capitals (DC) vs Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) will be available at Hotstar. You can also latest updates of the IPL 2020 match between Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings match at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl">WION</a>. 
&nbsp;

Delhi Capitals (DC) will take on Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on Sunday as the action in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 continues in full flow.

Delhi Capitals (DC) will take on Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on Sunday as the action in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 continues in full flow. Both DC and KXIP are exciting sides on paper which makes the encounter extremely promising. Both DC and KXIP have had numerous nail-biters in IPL history and fans will hope they produce another thriller on Sunday. While DC boast some big names like Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant, Shikhar Dhawan, Kagiso Rabada, Ravichandran Ashwin in the squad, KXIP have the likes of KL Rahul, Chris Gayle, Glenn Maxwell, Mohammed Shami, Chris Jordan among others. The pitch will be not easy to bat on in Dubai and a score of around 160-170 is expected from the match between DC and KXIP. IN PICS | IPL 2020: Action in pictures as 'grand festival' of cricket starts in UAE ALSO READ: Delhi Capitals vs Kings XI Punjab Preview: Iyer vs Rahul in Dubai Where will the IPL 2020 match between Delhi Capitals (DC) vs Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) take place? The IPL 2020 match between Delhi Capitals (DC) vs Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) will take place at Dubai International Stadium in Dubai. What time will the IPL 2020 match between Delhi Capitals (DC) vs Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) begin? The IPL 2020 match between Delhi Capitals (DC) vs Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) begins at 7:30 PM IST on Sunday (September 20). How to watch live IPL 2020 match between Delhi Capitals (DC) vs Kings XI Punjab (KXIP)? The IPL 2020 match between Delhi Capitals (DC) vs Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) 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 Delhi Capitals (DC) vs Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) match online? The online live streaming of the IPL 2020 match between Delhi Capitals (DC) vs Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) will be available at Hotstar. You can also latest updates of the IPL 2020 match between Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings match at WION.

DC vs KXIP, IPL 2020 Live Streaming: When and where to watch Delhi Capitals vs Kings XI Punjab?

Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) skipper, ahead of their opening clash against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a> said that he hopes young recruits go on to make a mark in the tournament while adding gaining early momentum would be key for their IPL 2020 journey.

SRH open their IPL 2020 campaign against Virat Kohli-led RCB on Monday and the Aussie southpaw said that his team should look to go out there &nbsp;

The Sunrisers open their campaign in the 13th IPL with a game against the Virat Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore on Monday, and Warner’s message to his team is to go out and play freely without worrying too much about the result.

“We will try our best for that and if it doesn’t happen, will re-work our strategies and hope to go the distance in the IPL,” Warner said during a virtual media interaction, adding: “Every team has a perfect mix of world-class overseas players and quality Indian players. Ours is a pretty good balanced side in all departments. The boys have to just go out there and have fun, not take it too seriously. Like if you get angry you will tend to repeat the mistakes.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-jos-buttler-to-miss-rajasthan-royals-season-opener-vs-csk-328900" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Jos Buttler to miss Rajasthan Royals' season opener vs CSK</a>

“Yes, it is good to have a lot of youngsters in the middle-order. They bring a lot of enthusiasm and show the right kind of attitude, too. I have been hearing some very good reports about it on social media and hope they translate their talent into performances.”

Warner was delighted to have the presence of experienced players like Kane Williamson, Jonny Bairstow in the squad.

“We have plenty of experience with the likes of Kane, (Jonny) Bairstow, Vijay Shankar to name a few. We got a job on our hand for sure,” he said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-abdul-samad-is-an-exciting-talent-can-help-srh-this-season-rashid-khan-328861" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Abdul Samad is an exciting talent, can help SRH this season - Rashid Khan</a>

Speaking about his opening partner Bairstow, Warner said: “We know when to take those calculated risks and it is time to go this year again.” Asked if the spinners would play a big role, Warner said it depended on the kind of wickets on offer at the three venues of Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah.

“Some of them might be flat, some might offer swing in the first session and some might assist the spinner in the second half of the games. We have three good spinning all-rounders in the team. So, let us wait and see how they shape up,” he said.

(With PTI inputs) 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) skipper, ahead of their opening clash against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 said that he hopes young recruits go on to make a mark in the tournament while adding gaining early momentum would be key for their IPL 2020 journey.

Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) skipper, ahead of their opening clash against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 said that he hopes young recruits go on to make a mark in the tournament while adding gaining early momentum would be key for their IPL 2020 journey. SRH open their IPL 2020 campaign against Virat Kohli-led RCB on Monday and the Aussie southpaw said that his team should look to go out there The Sunrisers open their campaign in the 13th IPL with a game against the Virat Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore on Monday, and Warner’s message to his team is to go out and play freely without worrying too much about the result. “We will try our best for that and if it doesn’t happen, will re-work our strategies and hope to go the distance in the IPL,” Warner said during a virtual media interaction, adding: “Every team has a perfect mix of world-class overseas players and quality Indian players. Ours is a pretty good balanced side in all departments. The boys have to just go out there and have fun, not take it too seriously. Like if you get angry you will tend to repeat the mistakes.” ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Jos Buttler to miss Rajasthan Royals' season opener vs CSK “Yes, it is good to have a lot of youngsters in the middle-order. They bring a lot of enthusiasm and show the right kind of attitude, too. I have been hearing some very good reports about it on social media and hope they translate their talent into performances.” Warner was delighted to have the presence of experienced players like Kane Williamson, Jonny Bairstow in the squad. “We have plenty of experience with the likes of Kane, (Jonny) Bairstow, Vijay Shankar to name a few. We got a job on our hand for sure,” he said. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Abdul Samad is an exciting talent, can help SRH this season - Rashid Khan Speaking about his opening partner Bairstow, Warner said: “We know when to take those calculated risks and it is time to go this year again.” Asked if the spinners would play a big role, Warner said it depended on the kind of wickets on offer at the three venues of Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah. “Some of them might be flat, some might offer swing in the first session and some might assist the spinner in the second half of the games. We have three good spinning all-rounders in the team. So, let us wait and see how they shape up,” he said. (With PTI inputs)

IPL 2020: SRH captain David Warner pinning his hopes on 'exciting' youngsters

In what comes as a massive blow to Rajasthan Royals (RR), English wicketkeeper-batsman Jos Buttler will miss RR’s opening clash against Chennai Super Kings in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a>. Buttler travelled separately with his family to the UAE and as a result he will have to undergo the mandatory six-day quarantine period before he is allowed to play a match.

Buttler confirmed the development on Sunday during Rajasthan Royals’ Instagram live session. The swashbuckling batsman had missed most of England’s limited-overs matches against Australia due to family commitments.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/delhi-capitals-vs-kings-xi-punjab-preview-iyer-vs-rahul-in-dubai-as-exciting-sides-clash-328884" hreflang="en">Delhi Capitals vs Kings XI Punjab Preview: Iyer vs Rahul in Dubai as exciting sides clash</a>

While the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has slashed the quarantine period to 36 hours as England and Australian players had travelled from one bio-secure bubble in the UK to another in the UAE. However, as Buttler travelled separately, he will have to undergo the six-day quarantine period.

Meanwhile, Buttler was hopeful that English all-rounder Ben Stokes will be able to join the Rajasthan Royals squad at some point in time during the course of IPL 2020. Stokes missed the majority of English summer as he wanted to be with his family in New Zealand, and hasn’t provided any update on whether he will play in the IPL 2020. He is yet to join the RR squad in UAE.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-abdul-samad-is-an-exciting-talent-can-help-srh-this-season-rashid-khan-328861" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Abdul Samad is an exciting talent, can help SRH this season - Rashid Khan</a>

In the recently concluded T20I series against Australia, Buttler played two matches and scored 44 and 77 helping England seal the series. In 33 matches where Buttler has played after his first stint with RR, the Englishman has scored over 1000 runs at a blistering strike-rate of 125.

In what comes as a massive blow to Rajasthan Royals (RR), English wicketkeeper-batsman Jos Buttler will miss RR’s opening clash against Chennai Super Kings in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020.

In what comes as a massive blow to Rajasthan Royals (RR), English wicketkeeper-batsman Jos Buttler will miss RR’s opening clash against Chennai Super Kings in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020. Buttler travelled separately with his family to the UAE and as a result he will have to undergo the mandatory six-day quarantine period before he is allowed to play a match. Buttler confirmed the development on Sunday during Rajasthan Royals’ Instagram live session. The swashbuckling batsman had missed most of England’s limited-overs matches against Australia due to family commitments. ALSO READ: Delhi Capitals vs Kings XI Punjab Preview: Iyer vs Rahul in Dubai as exciting sides clash While the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has slashed the quarantine period to 36 hours as England and Australian players had travelled from one bio-secure bubble in the UK to another in the UAE. However, as Buttler travelled separately, he will have to undergo the six-day quarantine period. Meanwhile, Buttler was hopeful that English all-rounder Ben Stokes will be able to join the Rajasthan Royals squad at some point in time during the course of IPL 2020. Stokes missed the majority of English summer as he wanted to be with his family in New Zealand, and hasn’t provided any update on whether he will play in the IPL 2020. He is yet to join the RR squad in UAE. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Abdul Samad is an exciting talent, can help SRH this season - Rashid Khan In the recently concluded T20I series against Australia, Buttler played two matches and scored 44 and 77 helping England seal the series. In 33 matches where Buttler has played after his first stint with RR, the Englishman has scored over 1000 runs at a blistering strike-rate of 125.

IPL 2020: Jos Buttler to miss Rajasthan Royals' season opener vs CSK

Delhi Capitals (DC) are all set to lock horns against Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on Sunday as two exciting sides face each other with an aim to start their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a>&nbsp;campaign with a win. Both DC and KXIP have some match-winners in their ranks with superb blend of overseas and domestic talents.

Many experts and pundits have had both DC and KXIP in their top four team prediction and the encounter promises to be a thriller in Dubai. &nbsp;

In head-to-head clashes, Kings XI Punjab have a slight advantage over the Delhi outfit with 14 wins to their name in comparison to DC’s 10. In IPL 2019, it was all equal as both the teams won a match each but it was DC who finished in the playoffs spot.&nbsp;

IN PICS:&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>

While DC have the likes of Shikhar Dhawan, Prithvi Shaw, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant in their ranks when it comes to batting, KXIP boast the likes of KL Rahul, Chris Gayle, Mayank Agarwal, Glenn Maxwell and Nicholas Pooran.&nbsp;

The bowling department also looks better than last season for both the franchises, with DC having the likes of Ravichandran Ashwin, Kagiso Rabada, Amit Mishra among others. Whereas, KXIP have Mohammed Shami, Chris Jordan, Sheldon Cottrell, Ravi Bishnoi in their squad among many others.&nbsp;

Interestingly, both DC and KXIP have had much better success when chasing and given the dew factor, the captain winning the toss will opt to bowl first.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-ishant-sharma-picks-up-injury-before-dcs-opener-vs-kxip-328830">IPL 2020: Ishant Sharma picks up injury before DC's opener vs KXIP</a>

It is not easy scoring in Dubai International Stadium and a score of around 160-170 is expected from the match.

<h2>Expected Playing XI</h2>

Delhi Capitals: Shikhar Dhawan, Prithvi Shaw, Shreyas Iyer (c), Rishabh Pant (wk), Shimron Hetmeyer, Axar Patel, Marcus Stoinis, R Ashwin, Kagiso Rabada, Amit Mishra, Daniel Sams

Kings XI Punjab: KL Rahul (c&amp;wk), Chris Gayle, Mayank Agarwal, Nicholas Pooran, Glenn Maxwell, Mandeep Singh, Krishanappa Gowtham, Chris Jordan, Ravi Bishnoi, Mohammad Shami, Ishan Porel 
&nbsp;

Delhi Capitals (DC) are all set to lock horns against Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on Sunday as two exciting sides face each other with an aim to start their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 campaign with a win.

Delhi Capitals (DC) are all set to lock horns against Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on Sunday as two exciting sides face each other with an aim to start their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 campaign with a win. Both DC and KXIP have some match-winners in their ranks with superb blend of overseas and domestic talents. Many experts and pundits have had both DC and KXIP in their top four team prediction and the encounter promises to be a thriller in Dubai. In head-to-head clashes, Kings XI Punjab have a slight advantage over the Delhi outfit with 14 wins to their name in comparison to DC’s 10. In IPL 2019, it was all equal as both the teams won a match each but it was DC who finished in the playoffs spot. IN PICS: IPL 2020: Action in pictures as 'grand festival' of cricket starts in UAE While DC have the likes of Shikhar Dhawan, Prithvi Shaw, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant in their ranks when it comes to batting, KXIP boast the likes of KL Rahul, Chris Gayle, Mayank Agarwal, Glenn Maxwell and Nicholas Pooran. The bowling department also looks better than last season for both the franchises, with DC having the likes of Ravichandran Ashwin, Kagiso Rabada, Amit Mishra among others. Whereas, KXIP have Mohammed Shami, Chris Jordan, Sheldon Cottrell, Ravi Bishnoi in their squad among many others. Interestingly, both DC and KXIP have had much better success when chasing and given the dew factor, the captain winning the toss will opt to bowl first. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Ishant Sharma picks up injury before DC's opener vs KXIP It is not easy scoring in Dubai International Stadium and a score of around 160-170 is expected from the match. Expected Playing XI Delhi Capitals: Shikhar Dhawan, Prithvi Shaw, Shreyas Iyer (c), Rishabh Pant (wk), Shimron Hetmeyer, Axar Patel, Marcus Stoinis, R Ashwin, Kagiso Rabada, Amit Mishra, Daniel Sams Kings XI Punjab: KL Rahul (c&wk), Chris Gayle, Mayank Agarwal, Nicholas Pooran, Glenn Maxwell, Mandeep Singh, Krishanappa Gowtham, Chris Jordan, Ravi Bishnoi, Mohammad Shami, Ishan Porel

Delhi Capitals vs Kings XI Punjab Preview: Iyer vs Rahul in Dubai as exciting sides clash

Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) are all set to begin their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a> campaign against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on Monday. Both SRH and RCB are looking really solid on paper with the match promising to be a cracking contest between two top sides.

Ahead of their season opener against RCB, Afghanistan spin maestro and one of the crucial players for SRH, Rashid Khan said having someone like Mohammad Nabi in the team helps him execute plans better on the field while adding his experience adds extra value to the SRH side. Rashid further heaped praise on youngster Abdul Samad for his ability to hit the ball far.

Rashid was of high praise for Nabi as the 22-year-old said that the Afghanistan veteran’s inputs, on and off the field, are always valuable and he respects him for being a top cricketer and a true guide.&nbsp;

<img alt="Rashid Khan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="35e81866-a0fb-4643-bb0c-131d45f6be17" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ad97c67a-1495-47b3-88ca-6b3c2ff655a7.jpg" />

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-trivia-top-records-of-thala-ms-dhoni-in-the-tournament-328205" hreflang="en">IPL trivia: Top records of 'Thala' MS Dhoni in the tournament</a>

“Mohammad Nabi brings extra value to the our (SRH) side. He has played cricket for the last 16-17 years and having that experience on board is always helpful. Even when he is not playing, he keeps on giving his inputs from the sidelines which has helped me and the team in numerous occasions,” Rashid told reporters in a media interaction on his birthday on Sunday.&nbsp;

When asked what is his initial impression of youngster Abdul Samad, who is coming after a sensation domestic season for Jammu &amp; Kashmir, Rashid said that he is a quality talent who can hit the ball far while praising his fitness and the shape he is in before their IPL 2020 season opener against RCB.&nbsp;

Samad scored a whopping 592 runs including 36 sixes he hit - the most by anyone in the season – that eventually led to J&amp;K making it to the quarter-finals of the Ranji Trophy

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sunil-gavaskar-names-his-srh-playing-xi-for-ipl-2020-excludes-williamson-328657" hreflang="en">Sunil Gavaskar names his SRH playing XI for IPL 2020; excludes Williamson</a>

“I saw Abdul Samad in our practice game yesterday and he was hitting the ball really long. He is a very strong guy and can clear the rope easily. I haven’t seen much of him yet but every player and coaching staff is very impressed by what he has done in training so far,” Rashid said.

On his battle with RCB skipper Virat Kohli, the 22-year-old said: "I think whenever you are bowling to anyone, you are under pressure. Virat is a world-class player in all three formats, I love it when somebody like him is batting against me, it is the best competition and you want it as a bowler, I will enjoy bowling to him, it will be a proud moment bowling to him. As a bowler, I will try to bowl the best deliveries."

Rashid Khan was one of the standout bowlers for SRH, like always, in IPL 2019 and went on to pick up 15 wickets for the Hyderabad-based outfit. 
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Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) are all set to begin their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 campaign against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on Monday.

Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) are all set to begin their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 campaign against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on Monday. Both SRH and RCB are looking really solid on paper with the match promising to be a cracking contest between two top sides. Ahead of their season opener against RCB, Afghanistan spin maestro and one of the crucial players for SRH, Rashid Khan said having someone like Mohammad Nabi in the team helps him execute plans better on the field while adding his experience adds extra value to the SRH side. Rashid further heaped praise on youngster Abdul Samad for his ability to hit the ball far. Rashid was of high praise for Nabi as the 22-year-old said that the Afghanistan veteran’s inputs, on and off the field, are always valuable and he respects him for being a top cricketer and a true guide. ALSO READ: IPL trivia: Top records of 'Thala' MS Dhoni in the tournament “Mohammad Nabi brings extra value to the our (SRH) side. He has played cricket for the last 16-17 years and having that experience on board is always helpful. Even when he is not playing, he keeps on giving his inputs from the sidelines which has helped me and the team in numerous occasions,” Rashid told reporters in a media interaction on his birthday on Sunday. When asked what is his initial impression of youngster Abdul Samad, who is coming after a sensation domestic season for Jammu & Kashmir, Rashid said that he is a quality talent who can hit the ball far while praising his fitness and the shape he is in before their IPL 2020 season opener against RCB. Samad scored a whopping 592 runs including 36 sixes he hit - the most by anyone in the season – that eventually led to J&K making it to the quarter-finals of the Ranji Trophy ALSO READ: Sunil Gavaskar names his SRH playing XI for IPL 2020; excludes Williamson “I saw Abdul Samad in our practice game yesterday and he was hitting the ball really long. He is a very strong guy and can clear the rope easily. I haven’t seen much of him yet but every player and coaching staff is very impressed by what he has done in training so far,” Rashid said. On his battle with RCB skipper Virat Kohli, the 22-year-old said: "I think whenever you are bowling to anyone, you are under pressure. Virat is a world-class player in all three formats, I love it when somebody like him is batting against me, it is the best competition and you want it as a bowler, I will enjoy bowling to him, it will be a proud moment bowling to him. As a bowler, I will try to bowl the best deliveries." Rashid Khan was one of the standout bowlers for SRH, like always, in IPL 2019 and went on to pick up 15 wickets for the Hyderabad-based outfit.

IPL 2020: Abdul Samad is an exciting talent, can help SRH this season - Rashid Khan

Chennai Super Kings head coach Stephen Fleming has confirmed that their star all-rounder Dwayne Bravo will miss another couple of matches of the 13th IPL.

Despite missing the seasoned West Indian who is recovering from an injury, three-times winners CSK began their campaign on a positive note, beating arch-rivals Mumbai Indians by five wickets here on Saturday.

"Dwayne Bravo is out for a couple of games," Fleming said in the post-match press conference. 
Bravo picked a niggle during the recently-concluded Caribbean Premier League and didn't bowl in the final due to a knee injury.

Playing in place of Bravo, English all-rounder Sam Curran smashed 18 off six balls to help CSK cross the finish line after Ambati Rayudu and Faf du Plessis' scored brisk half-centuries.

In his quota of four overs, Curran returned impressive figures of 1/28 while picking up the wicket of the dangerous looking Quinton de Kock, and then played a cameo with the bat.

"Curran's performance was terrific," Fleming said.

The head coach also heaped praise on Rayudu, who played a match-winning knock, making a 48-ball 71 and along with du Plessis, who scored an unbeaten 58, helped Chennai chase down a target of 163 with four balls to spare.

"Rayudu has been nothing short of fantastic. He has been pretty emotional and played a great knock," Fleming said.

The former New Zealand captain further said that the pitch was "difficult" to score and that the team is looking for ways to find the right balance.

While addressing his team's post-match press conference, Mumbai Indians pacer James Pattinson said that they were looking to bowl first.

"We were looking to bowl first, with the temperature being high at night time the ground does get a bit wet. So, there is an advantage in bowling first. Both the teams were looking to bowl first," Pattinson said.

"There's little bit of wetness around the grass. It skidded on a little bit. It was a good wicket overall," the Australian added.

Speaking about Kieron Pollard's batting position, Pattinson said that he expects the West Indian to bat higher up in the order in the future.

Pollard batted at number six against CSK.

"I think between him (Pollard) and the two Pandya brothers, it's just going to float at number 5, 6 and 7 depending on the situation of the game. I'm sure he'll bat higher at some stage, depending on the situation in the game," said Pattinson.

The bowler also talked about the absence of crowd in the IPL.

"You just have to make your own noise out there. It's obviously hard when you don't have fans cheering behind you, especially the Mumbai Indians fans who are great.

"So, yeah it's different, it's different times, we're just grateful to be playing cricket," said Pattinson.

Chennai Super Kings head coach Stephen Fleming has confirmed that their star all-rounder Dwayne Bravo will miss another couple of matches of the 13th IPL. Despite missing the seasoned West Indian who is recovering from an injury, three-times winners CSK began their campaign on a positive note, beating arch-rivals Mumbai Indians by five wickets here on Saturday.

Chennai Super Kings head coach Stephen Fleming has confirmed that their star all-rounder Dwayne Bravo will miss another couple of matches of the 13th IPL. Despite missing the seasoned West Indian who is recovering from an injury, three-times winners CSK began their campaign on a positive note, beating arch-rivals Mumbai Indians by five wickets here on Saturday. "Dwayne Bravo is out for a couple of games," Fleming said in the post-match press conference. Bravo picked a niggle during the recently-concluded Caribbean Premier League and didn't bowl in the final due to a knee injury. Playing in place of Bravo, English all-rounder Sam Curran smashed 18 off six balls to help CSK cross the finish line after Ambati Rayudu and Faf du Plessis' scored brisk half-centuries. In his quota of four overs, Curran returned impressive figures of 1/28 while picking up the wicket of the dangerous looking Quinton de Kock, and then played a cameo with the bat. "Curran's performance was terrific," Fleming said. The head coach also heaped praise on Rayudu, who played a match-winning knock, making a 48-ball 71 and along with du Plessis, who scored an unbeaten 58, helped Chennai chase down a target of 163 with four balls to spare. "Rayudu has been nothing short of fantastic. He has been pretty emotional and played a great knock," Fleming said. The former New Zealand captain further said that the pitch was "difficult" to score and that the team is looking for ways to find the right balance. While addressing his team's post-match press conference, Mumbai Indians pacer James Pattinson said that they were looking to bowl first. "We were looking to bowl first, with the temperature being high at night time the ground does get a bit wet. So, there is an advantage in bowling first. Both the teams were looking to bowl first," Pattinson said. "There's little bit of wetness around the grass. It skidded on a little bit. It was a good wicket overall," the Australian added. Speaking about Kieron Pollard's batting position, Pattinson said that he expects the West Indian to bat higher up in the order in the future. Pollard batted at number six against CSK. "I think between him (Pollard) and the two Pandya brothers, it's just going to float at number 5, 6 and 7 depending on the situation of the game. I'm sure he'll bat higher at some stage, depending on the situation in the game," said Pattinson. The bowler also talked about the absence of crowd in the IPL. "You just have to make your own noise out there. It's obviously hard when you don't have fans cheering behind you, especially the Mumbai Indians fans who are great. "So, yeah it's different, it's different times, we're just grateful to be playing cricket," said Pattinson.

Bravo to miss another couple of games, says CSK coach Fleming

Delhi Capitals (DC) have been dealt with a massive blow as veteran pacer Ishant Sharma has reportedly injured himself in the training just ahead of their opening <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a> encounter against Kings XI Punjab at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai. And it is likely that Ishant may have to spend a longer time in the sidelines.&nbsp;

According to Cricbuzz report, Ishant has injured his back during a training session ahead of DC’s match against KXIP in Dubai. Ishant had only returned in February to play the Test series against New Zealand after recovering from an ankle injury before ending up hurting the same ankle again.

Delhi Capitals, in Ishant’s absence, would look to use either of Harshal Patel, Mohit Sharma or Avesh Khan to spearhead the pace attack with Kagiso Rabada.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dhoni-praises-chennai-dads-army-after-ipl-win-over-mumbai-328817">Dhoni praises Chennai 'Dads Army' after IPL win over Mumbai</a>

DC might go ahead with Marcus Stoinis or Keemo Paul along with Rabada and Shimron Hetmyer in the playing XI as the presence of Amit Mishra and Ravichandran Ashwin allow them to tweak their line-up. The presence of Axar Patel is an added advantage.

Nonetheless, Ishant missing the first match of the season will be a huge blow for Delhi Capitals and it would be interesting to see how Shreyas Iyer copes with the pressure.&nbsp;

Talking about the bio-secure bubble and the challenges it brings, Iyer on Saturday said:

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-trivia-top-5-batsmen-with-highest-individual-scores-327544" hreflang="en">IPL trivia: Top 5 batsmen with highest individual scores!</a>

“It’ unusual for all of us and it is a challenge. Being in the bio-secure bubble is very different. But we are trying hard to follow the rules and do activities keep ourselves entertained. We will be later briefed today on what are the dos and don’ts for celebration on the field. Among all this, we will certainly miss all the excitement and adrenaline that fans bring to the match inside the stadium,” Iyer told reporters in a virtual press conference. 
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Delhi Capitals (DC) have been dealt with a massive blow as veteran pacer Ishant Sharma has reportedly injured himself in the training just ahead of their opening Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 encounter against Kings XI Punjab at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai.

Delhi Capitals (DC) have been dealt with a massive blow as veteran pacer Ishant Sharma has reportedly injured himself in the training just ahead of their opening Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 encounter against Kings XI Punjab at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai. And it is likely that Ishant may have to spend a longer time in the sidelines. According to Cricbuzz report, Ishant has injured his back during a training session ahead of DC’s match against KXIP in Dubai. Ishant had only returned in February to play the Test series against New Zealand after recovering from an ankle injury before ending up hurting the same ankle again. Delhi Capitals, in Ishant’s absence, would look to use either of Harshal Patel, Mohit Sharma or Avesh Khan to spearhead the pace attack with Kagiso Rabada. ALSO READ: Dhoni praises Chennai 'Dads Army' after IPL win over Mumbai DC might go ahead with Marcus Stoinis or Keemo Paul along with Rabada and Shimron Hetmyer in the playing XI as the presence of Amit Mishra and Ravichandran Ashwin allow them to tweak their line-up. The presence of Axar Patel is an added advantage. Nonetheless, Ishant missing the first match of the season will be a huge blow for Delhi Capitals and it would be interesting to see how Shreyas Iyer copes with the pressure. Talking about the bio-secure bubble and the challenges it brings, Iyer on Saturday said: ALSO READ: IPL trivia: Top 5 batsmen with highest individual scores! “It’ unusual for all of us and it is a challenge. Being in the bio-secure bubble is very different. But we are trying hard to follow the rules and do activities keep ourselves entertained. We will be later briefed today on what are the dos and don’ts for celebration on the field. Among all this, we will certainly miss all the excitement and adrenaline that fans bring to the match inside the stadium,” Iyer told reporters in a virtual press conference.

IPL 2020: Ishant Sharma picks up injury before DC's opener vs KXIP

Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who retired from international cricket last month, is in top shape and ready to lead the Chennai Super Kings in the 13th edition of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl">Indian Premier League</a> on Saturday, head coach Stephen Fleming has said.

The 39-year-old former skipper drew curtains on an illustrious, trophy-laden career for the national team, having not played for India since their semi-final exit at the 50-overs World Cup in July last year.

Due to his long break, there were concerns over Dhoni’s readiness for the IPL, which will be played in the United Arab Emirates due to the worsening COVID-19 pandemic in India.

"It has been no different," former New Zealand captain Fleming said in an interview on the team's website.&nbsp;"He's very fit and mentally he's been very engaged and determined.

“In some ways the break can work for the experienced and older players that we have. MS is fresh and ready to go.”

The IPL kicks off on Saturday with a repeat of last year’s final, which the Mumbai Indians won by one run against the Chennai outfit.

Three-time winners CSK did not have an ideal pre-season when many people from their touring party tested positive for the novel coronavirus upon arriving in the UAE, but Fleming felt the squad had dealt with the challenge well.

Adjusting to the conditions in the Emirates also means the 2020 edition of the popular Twenty20 tournament will be tactically “very different” and Fleming is banking on the wealth of experience in his side to adapt.

Apart from Dhoni, the Chennai side also boast experienced campaigners like Australian Shane Watson, Dwayne Bravo of West Indies and Pakistan-born South African Imran Tahir.

“We’ve got experienced players, and experienced players identify key times and that’s why they’ve done so well in their careers, that they can turn games, absorb pressure or just sum out the situation,” Fleming said.

“That’s what experience is about and that’s why we value it so highly.”

Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who retired from international cricket last month, is in top shape and ready to lead the Chennai Super Kings in the 13th edition of the Indian Premier League on Saturday, head coach Stephen Fleming has said.

Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who retired from international cricket last month, is in top shape and ready to lead the Chennai Super Kings in the 13th edition of the Indian Premier League on Saturday, head coach Stephen Fleming has said. The 39-year-old former skipper drew curtains on an illustrious, trophy-laden career for the national team, having not played for India since their semi-final exit at the 50-overs World Cup in July last year. Due to his long break, there were concerns over Dhoni’s readiness for the IPL, which will be played in the United Arab Emirates due to the worsening COVID-19 pandemic in India. "It has been no different," former New Zealand captain Fleming said in an interview on the team's website. "He's very fit and mentally he's been very engaged and determined. “In some ways the break can work for the experienced and older players that we have. MS is fresh and ready to go.” The IPL kicks off on Saturday with a repeat of last year’s final, which the Mumbai Indians won by one run against the Chennai outfit. Three-time winners CSK did not have an ideal pre-season when many people from their touring party tested positive for the novel coronavirus upon arriving in the UAE, but Fleming felt the squad had dealt with the challenge well. Adjusting to the conditions in the Emirates also means the 2020 edition of the popular Twenty20 tournament will be tactically “very different” and Fleming is banking on the wealth of experience in his side to adapt. Apart from Dhoni, the Chennai side also boast experienced campaigners like Australian Shane Watson, Dwayne Bravo of West Indies and Pakistan-born South African Imran Tahir. “We’ve got experienced players, and experienced players identify key times and that’s why they’ve done so well in their careers, that they can turn games, absorb pressure or just sum out the situation,” Fleming said. “That’s what experience is about and that’s why we value it so highly.”

'Fit and Fresh' Dhoni ready to lead Chennai in IPL 2020

Rafael Nadal swept aside Serb Dusan Lajovic to reach the Italian Open quarter-finals on Friday as he warms up on clay before bidding to match the all-time Grand Slam record in Roland Garros.

The world number two has returned this week in Rome after a six-month coronavirus-enforced break before attempting to match Roger Federer's all-time record of 20 Grand Slam titles in Paris.

The 12-time French Open winner insisted he was not obsessed with matching Federer, absent until 2021 with a knee injury.

"For me it's not an obsession at all," Nadal, 34, told journalists after brushing aside 25th-ranked Lajovic 6-1, 6-3.

Lajovic had valiantly but vainly launched a fightback after trailing 4-0 in the second set to the Spaniard.

"I always say the same. I did all my career my way, and that's what I'm going to keep doing," he continued.

"I can't be all the time thinking about what Roger had or what Novak (Djokovic) or what the other... I know that you put a lot of attention on all of this.&nbsp;

"Of course I would love to finish my career with 25 (Grand Slams) but that's something that probably will not happen," he smiled.&nbsp;

"I'm going to keep fighting to produce chances, and then when I finish my career, let's see. I just want to keep enjoying tennis.&nbsp;

"And that's it. If I am playing well, I know I normally have my chances. If not, it's going to be impossible. That's it."

Nadal declared himself pleased with how his return was going after easing past fellow Spaniard Pablo Carreno Busta 6-1, 6-1 in his first match earlier in the week.

"I played two good solid matches," he said.&nbsp;

"I played at, I think, a very positive level of tennis. Of course it needs to keep improving.&nbsp;

"I need to keep working in a couple of things that things are not coming automatic.&nbsp;

"But I can't ask for more. Have been another great evening for me against another good opponent.&nbsp;

"Much better, not what I expected."

Nadal next meets Argentine eighth seed Diego Schwartzman, a player he has beaten in all nine of their previous meetings.

Nadal won his first Rome title back in 2005, and is bidding for a third consecutive crown on clay in the Italian capital and 10th in total.

Before this week he had not played since winning in Acapulco in February, opting to skip the US hard court tour.&nbsp;

Rafael Nadal swept aside Serb Dusan Lajovic to reach the Italian Open quarter-finals on Friday as he warms up on clay before bidding to match the all-time Grand Slam record in Roland Garros.

Rafael Nadal swept aside Serb Dusan Lajovic to reach the Italian Open quarter-finals on Friday as he warms up on clay before bidding to match the all-time Grand Slam record in Roland Garros. The world number two has returned this week in Rome after a six-month coronavirus-enforced break before attempting to match Roger Federer's all-time record of 20 Grand Slam titles in Paris. The 12-time French Open winner insisted he was not obsessed with matching Federer, absent until 2021 with a knee injury. "For me it's not an obsession at all," Nadal, 34, told journalists after brushing aside 25th-ranked Lajovic 6-1, 6-3. Lajovic had valiantly but vainly launched a fightback after trailing 4-0 in the second set to the Spaniard. "I always say the same. I did all my career my way, and that's what I'm going to keep doing," he continued. "I can't be all the time thinking about what Roger had or what Novak (Djokovic) or what the other... I know that you put a lot of attention on all of this. "Of course I would love to finish my career with 25 (Grand Slams) but that's something that probably will not happen," he smiled. "I'm going to keep fighting to produce chances, and then when I finish my career, let's see. I just want to keep enjoying tennis. "And that's it. If I am playing well, I know I normally have my chances. If not, it's going to be impossible. That's it." Nadal declared himself pleased with how his return was going after easing past fellow Spaniard Pablo Carreno Busta 6-1, 6-1 in his first match earlier in the week. "I played two good solid matches," he said. "I played at, I think, a very positive level of tennis. Of course it needs to keep improving. "I need to keep working in a couple of things that things are not coming automatic. "But I can't ask for more. Have been another great evening for me against another good opponent. "Much better, not what I expected." Nadal next meets Argentine eighth seed Diego Schwartzman, a player he has beaten in all nine of their previous meetings. Nadal won his first Rome title back in 2005, and is bidding for a third consecutive crown on clay in the Italian capital and 10th in total. Before this week he had not played since winning in Acapulco in February, opting to skip the US hard court tour.

Nadal sweeps into Rome quarter-finals

Leroy Sane said all-conquering Bayern Munich crave even more silverware after the Germany winger scored on his debut in Friday's historic 8-0 thrashing of Schalke in the opening game of the new Bundesliga season.

"We're still hungry, even though we won the treble last season," said Sane after creating two goals for Serge Gnabry, who claimed a hat-trick in the goalfest at the Allianz Arena.

"Winning our first game at home 8-0 is obviously super.

"It felt really, really good finally to be able to play with the lads," said Sane, who spent most of last season sidelined at former club Manchester City after tearing knee ligaments at the very start of last season.

"It's been a very good day with lots of goals."

Just 26 days after winning the Champions League final, Bayern picked up where they left off last season with their 22nd-straight win.

"It is amazing how the team has built on the performance of the past season," said Bayern board member and former club captain Oliver Kahn.

The jaw-dropping result is the highest win in an opening game of a new Bundesliga season - five weeks to the day after Bayern's 8-2 thrashing of Barcelona in the quarter-finals of the Champions League.

Leon Goretzka, Thomas Mueller and Robert Lewandowksi also netted, while England junior international Jamal Musiala, 17, became the youngest Bayern goal-scorer in the Bundesliga when he came on late.&nbsp;

Bayern had to brush off setbacks in the days leading up to kick-off.

On Thursday, the Mayor of Munich scuppered plans to allow 7,500 fans into the Allianz Arena, due to rising new cases of the coronavirus in the Bavarian capital, hours after Bayern confirmed the sale of Thiago Alcantara to Liverpool.

Before kick-off, David Alaba, who is stalling over signing a contract extension with a year left to go, dropped out with a leg injury.

<h2>- Normal service resumed -</h2>

However, Bayern picked up where they left off 26 days after winning the Champions League final in Lisbon.&nbsp;

Cash-strapped Schalke continued their miserable finish to last season as David Wagner's side have now gone 17 games without a win.

Gnabry opened the scoring with just four minutes gone with a great piece of finishing which gave Schalke goalkeeper Ralf Faehrmann no chance.

Burly central midfielder Goretzka grabbed the second against his former club when he hit the bottom corner from the edge of the box on 19 minutes.

Lewandowski, the Bundesliga's top scorer last season with 34 goals, opened his account for 2020/21 with half an hour gone.

He netted a penalty after being brought down in the area by Schalke defender Ozan Kabak, who has been linked to a move to Liverpool.

Incredibly, Lewandowski has now scored in each of his last 10 games against Schalke, dating back to April 2016, including a hat-trick in last August's 3-0 win over the Royal Blues in Gelsenkirchen.&nbsp;

It was 3-0 at half-time, but Gnabry grabbed his second two minutes after the break when he fired into an empty net after a sprint by Sane pulled Faehrmann out of position.

The pair combined again when Sane chested the ball down after getting in behind the defence and rolled the ball off to the waiting Gnabry to claim his hat-trick just before the hour mark.

Mueller added the sixth on 69 minutes after Lewandowski had again cut Schalke's defence to shreds.

The records were sent tumbling as Sane marked his debut with the seventh on 71 minutes when he sprinted onto Joshua Kimmich's superb pass and fired home with Lewandowski unmarked outside him.

Musiala, who only turned 17 in February, became the club's youngest scorer in the Bundesliga when he darted in from the left wing to add the eighth on 81 minutes.&nbsp;

Leroy Sane said all-conquering Bayern Munich crave even more silverware after the Germany winger scored on his debut in Friday's historic 8-0 thrashing of Schalke in the opening game of the new Bundesliga season.

Leroy Sane said all-conquering Bayern Munich crave even more silverware after the Germany winger scored on his debut in Friday's historic 8-0 thrashing of Schalke in the opening game of the new Bundesliga season. "We're still hungry, even though we won the treble last season," said Sane after creating two goals for Serge Gnabry, who claimed a hat-trick in the goalfest at the Allianz Arena. "Winning our first game at home 8-0 is obviously super. "It felt really, really good finally to be able to play with the lads," said Sane, who spent most of last season sidelined at former club Manchester City after tearing knee ligaments at the very start of last season. "It's been a very good day with lots of goals." Just 26 days after winning the Champions League final, Bayern picked up where they left off last season with their 22nd-straight win. "It is amazing how the team has built on the performance of the past season," said Bayern board member and former club captain Oliver Kahn. The jaw-dropping result is the highest win in an opening game of a new Bundesliga season - five weeks to the day after Bayern's 8-2 thrashing of Barcelona in the quarter-finals of the Champions League. Leon Goretzka, Thomas Mueller and Robert Lewandowksi also netted, while England junior international Jamal Musiala, 17, became the youngest Bayern goal-scorer in the Bundesliga when he came on late. Bayern had to brush off setbacks in the days leading up to kick-off. On Thursday, the Mayor of Munich scuppered plans to allow 7,500 fans into the Allianz Arena, due to rising new cases of the coronavirus in the Bavarian capital, hours after Bayern confirmed the sale of Thiago Alcantara to Liverpool. Before kick-off, David Alaba, who is stalling over signing a contract extension with a year left to go, dropped out with a leg injury. - Normal service resumed - However, Bayern picked up where they left off 26 days after winning the Champions League final in Lisbon. Cash-strapped Schalke continued their miserable finish to last season as David Wagner's side have now gone 17 games without a win. Gnabry opened the scoring with just four minutes gone with a great piece of finishing which gave Schalke goalkeeper Ralf Faehrmann no chance. Burly central midfielder Goretzka grabbed the second against his former club when he hit the bottom corner from the edge of the box on 19 minutes. Lewandowski, the Bundesliga's top scorer last season with 34 goals, opened his account for 2020/21 with half an hour gone. He netted a penalty after being brought down in the area by Schalke defender Ozan Kabak, who has been linked to a move to Liverpool. Incredibly, Lewandowski has now scored in each of his last 10 games against Schalke, dating back to April 2016, including a hat-trick in last August's 3-0 win over the Royal Blues in Gelsenkirchen. It was 3-0 at half-time, but Gnabry grabbed his second two minutes after the break when he fired into an empty net after a sprint by Sane pulled Faehrmann out of position. The pair combined again when Sane chested the ball down after getting in behind the defence and rolled the ball off to the waiting Gnabry to claim his hat-trick just before the hour mark. Mueller added the sixth on 69 minutes after Lewandowski had again cut Schalke's defence to shreds. The records were sent tumbling as Sane marked his debut with the seventh on 71 minutes when he sprinted onto Joshua Kimmich's superb pass and fired home with Lewandowski unmarked outside him. Musiala, who only turned 17 in February, became the club's youngest scorer in the Bundesliga when he darted in from the left wing to add the eighth on 81 minutes.

Gnabry hits hat-trick as 'hungry' Bayern run riot in historic Bundesliga opener

With <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a> kickstarting from Satursday, former Australian skipper and now the head coach of Delhi Capitals said that there would be less pressure on players of performing as the matches will be played behind closed doors in front of empty stands.&nbsp;

Defending champions Mumbai Indians take on Chennai Super Kings in the season opener in Abu Dhabi, whereas Kings XI Punjab will lock horns with Kings XI Punjab on Sunday. Ahead of their match against KXIP, the DC head coach said that less atmosphere and noise create lesser pressure on players.&nbsp;

"The fact that there is no crowds on the ground, I actually think that probably puts less pressure on the players," Ponting said in a virtual pre-season press conference from Dubai.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/third-year-of-ricky-ponting-with-dc-so-he-should-deliver-this-time-gautam-gambhir-328669" hreflang="en">Third year of Ricky Ponting with DC so he should deliver this time: Gautam Gambhir</a>

"The less noise and everything there probably creates less pressure," he said.

"Playing in front of an empty stadium will be different ... but once we start I think it is going to be about our group creating their own atmosphere and own energy on the ground and not expecting the crowds actually in the stadium to lift us up and anything like that."

However, Delhi Capitals captain Shreyas Iyer said the team would miss the roar of the home crowd and general fans in the stadiums.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sunil-gavaskar-names-his-srh-playing-xi-for-ipl-2020-excludes-williamson-328657" hreflang="en">Sunil Gavaskar names his SRH playing XI for IPL 2020; excludes Williamson</a>

"Fans obviously when they are in the stands they give us that boost and the adrenaline subsequently. So we obviously we would be missing them out there in the stadium," said Iyer.

"The cheer, the roar and the support that we used to get would be missing."

All eight IPL franchises have been living inside bio-secure bubbles, as per the SOPs handed over by the BCCI.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, DC will look to perform better than the last season where they finished third in the IPL 2019 table.

With Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 kickstarting from Satursday, former Australian skipper and now the head coach of Delhi Capitals said that there would be less pressure on players of performing as the matches will be played behind closed doors in front of empty stands.

With Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 kickstarting from Satursday, former Australian skipper and now the head coach of Delhi Capitals said that there would be less pressure on players of performing as the matches will be played behind closed doors in front of empty stands. Defending champions Mumbai Indians take on Chennai Super Kings in the season opener in Abu Dhabi, whereas Kings XI Punjab will lock horns with Kings XI Punjab on Sunday. Ahead of their match against KXIP, the DC head coach said that less atmosphere and noise create lesser pressure on players. "The fact that there is no crowds on the ground, I actually think that probably puts less pressure on the players," Ponting said in a virtual pre-season press conference from Dubai. ALSO READ: Third year of Ricky Ponting with DC so he should deliver this time: Gautam Gambhir "The less noise and everything there probably creates less pressure," he said. "Playing in front of an empty stadium will be different ... but once we start I think it is going to be about our group creating their own atmosphere and own energy on the ground and not expecting the crowds actually in the stadium to lift us up and anything like that." However, Delhi Capitals captain Shreyas Iyer said the team would miss the roar of the home crowd and general fans in the stadiums. ALSO READ: Sunil Gavaskar names his SRH playing XI for IPL 2020; excludes Williamson "Fans obviously when they are in the stands they give us that boost and the adrenaline subsequently. So we obviously we would be missing them out there in the stadium," said Iyer. "The cheer, the roar and the support that we used to get would be missing." All eight IPL franchises have been living inside bio-secure bubbles, as per the SOPs handed over by the BCCI. Meanwhile, DC will look to perform better than the last season where they finished third in the IPL 2019 table.

Less pressure on players at closed-door IPL 2020, reckons Delhi Capitals' Ricky Ponting

MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are set to face defending champions Mumbai Indians at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Saturday. CSK vs MI is arguably the biggest match of IPL given it is also considered as ‘El Clasico’ of cricket and the match promises to be an instant blockbuster considering the star-studded line-ups both the teams boast.&nbsp;

MI defeated CSK in the final of IPL 2019 by just one run and that heart-crushing defeat will somewhere be in the CSK players.&nbsp;

The pitch of the Sheikh Zayed Stadium generally stays on the slower side but given this is the first match of IPL 2020, the track would be fresh and plenty of runs are expected in the season opener.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-ms-dhoni-on-the-verge-of-surpassing-suresh-rainas-record-328624" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: MS Dhoni on the verge of surpassing Suresh Raina's record</a>

TRENING:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-csk-fans-gear-up-for-ipl-2020-as-ms-dhoni-co-return-328623" hreflang="en">Watch: CSK fans gear up for IPL 2020 as MS Dhoni &amp; Co. return</a>

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/monty-panesar-predicts-winners-of-ipl-2020-picks-favourites-for-orange-and-purple-cap-328594" hreflang="en">Monty Panesar predicts winners of IPL 2020, picks favourites for Orange and Purple cap</a>

<h2>Where will the IPL 2020 match between Mumbai Indian vs Chennai Super Kings take place?</h2>

The IPL 2020 match between Mumbai Indian vs Chennai Super Kings will take place at Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi in the UAE.

<h2>What time will the IPL 2020 match between Mumbai Indian vs Chennai Super Kings begin?</h2>

The IPL 2020 match between Mumbai Indian vs Chennai Super Kings begins at 7:30 PM IST on Saturday (September 19th).

<h2>How to watch live IPL 2020 match between Mumbai Indian vs Chennai Super Kings?</h2>

The IPL 2020 match between Mumbai Indian vs Chennai Super Kings 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 MI vs CSK match online?</h2>

The online live streaming of the IPL 2020 match between MI vs CSK will be available at Hotstar. You can also latest updates of the IPL 2020 match between Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings match at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl">WION</a>.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are set to face defending champions Mumbai Indians at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Saturday. CSK vs MI is arguably the biggest match of IPL given it is also considered as ‘El Clasico’ of cricket and the match promises to be an instant blockbuster considering the star-studded line-ups both the teams boast.

MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are set to face defending champions Mumbai Indians at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Saturday. CSK vs MI is arguably the biggest match of IPL given it is also considered as ‘El Clasico’ of cricket and the match promises to be an instant blockbuster considering the star-studded line-ups both the teams boast. MI defeated CSK in the final of IPL 2019 by just one run and that heart-crushing defeat will somewhere be in the CSK players. The pitch of the Sheikh Zayed Stadium generally stays on the slower side but given this is the first match of IPL 2020, the track would be fresh and plenty of runs are expected in the season opener. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: MS Dhoni on the verge of surpassing Suresh Raina's record TRENING: Watch: CSK fans gear up for IPL 2020 as MS Dhoni & Co. return ALSO READ: Monty Panesar predicts winners of IPL 2020, picks favourites for Orange and Purple cap Where will the IPL 2020 match between Mumbai Indian vs Chennai Super Kings take place? The IPL 2020 match between Mumbai Indian vs Chennai Super Kings will take place at Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi in the UAE. What time will the IPL 2020 match between Mumbai Indian vs Chennai Super Kings begin? The IPL 2020 match between Mumbai Indian vs Chennai Super Kings begins at 7:30 PM IST on Saturday (September 19th). How to watch live IPL 2020 match between Mumbai Indian vs Chennai Super Kings? The IPL 2020 match between Mumbai Indian vs Chennai Super Kings 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 MI vs CSK match online? The online live streaming of the IPL 2020 match between MI vs CSK will be available at Hotstar. You can also latest updates of the IPL 2020 match between Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings match at WION.

MI vs CSK, IPL 2020 Live Streaming: When and where to watch Mumbai Indians vs Chennai Super Kings?

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are all set to lock horns with Mumbai Indians (MI) in the season opener of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a> at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Saturday. With the return of IPL, cricketing world will once again witness the legend of MS Dhoni take the field again. Dhoni is also on the verge of breaking a record held by Suresh Raina, who will miss IPL 2020 due to ‘personal reasons’. <o:p></o:p>

Dhoni, who has numerous records under his belt, is set to become the most-capped player in IPL and is just four appearances away from surpassing the record held by Raina in IPL. ‘Thala’ has led CSK in 10 seasons in IPL while winning three titles with the Yellow Army.

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-trivia-top-records-of-thala-ms-dhoni-in-the-tournament-328205" hreflang="en">IPL trivia: Top records of 'Thala' MS Dhoni in the tournament</a>

Raina is currently the most-capped player in IPL history with 193 appearances to his name while representing Chennai Super Kings and Gujarat Lions. Whereas Dhoni has 190 appearances in IPL while playing for CSK and Rising Pune Supergiant.<o:p></o:p>

Dhoni, who is highly likely to start every game in IPL 2020, will easily surpass the record held by Raina in their match against Sunrisers Hyderabad.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mi-vs-csk-ipl-2020-preview-ms-dhoni-returns-but-will-it-be-sufficient-in-front-of-defending-champions-328609" hreflang="en">MI vs CSK, IPL 2020 Preview: MS Dhoni returns but will it be sufficient in front of defending champions?</a>

Apart from the record mentioned, Dhoni has most number of wins – 104 – as captain in IPL and is also the most successful wicket-keeper in the tournament with as many as 132 dismissals besides captaining his sides in 174 matches in IPL. <o:p></o:p>

With the bat, Dhoni has been a menacing force with as many as 209 sixes to his name – most by an Indian batsman. Only Chris Gayle (326) and AB de Villiers (212) are ahead of him in the list. <o:p></o:p>

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are all set to lock horns with Mumbai Indians (MI) in the season opener of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Saturday.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are all set to lock horns with Mumbai Indians (MI) in the season opener of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Saturday. With the return of IPL, cricketing world will once again witness the legend of MS Dhoni take the field again. Dhoni is also on the verge of breaking a record held by Suresh Raina, who will miss IPL 2020 due to ‘personal reasons’. Dhoni, who has numerous records under his belt, is set to become the most-capped player in IPL and is just four appearances away from surpassing the record held by Raina in IPL. ‘Thala’ has led CSK in 10 seasons in IPL while winning three titles with the Yellow Army. IN PICS | IPL trivia: Top records of 'Thala' MS Dhoni in the tournament Raina is currently the most-capped player in IPL history with 193 appearances to his name while representing Chennai Super Kings and Gujarat Lions. Whereas Dhoni has 190 appearances in IPL while playing for CSK and Rising Pune Supergiant. Dhoni, who is highly likely to start every game in IPL 2020, will easily surpass the record held by Raina in their match against Sunrisers Hyderabad. ALSO READ: MI vs CSK, IPL 2020 Preview: MS Dhoni returns but will it be sufficient in front of defending champions? Apart from the record mentioned, Dhoni has most number of wins – 104 – as captain in IPL and is also the most successful wicket-keeper in the tournament with as many as 132 dismissals besides captaining his sides in 174 matches in IPL. With the bat, Dhoni has been a menacing force with as many as 209 sixes to his name – most by an Indian batsman. Only Chris Gayle (326) and AB de Villiers (212) are ahead of him in the list.

IPL 2020: MS Dhoni on the verge of surpassing Suresh Raina's record

The biggest T20 tournament in the world is back as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a> is all set to commence from today with defending champions Mumbai Indians (MI) taking on MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi.&nbsp;

Two of the most successful teams – MI and CSK - in IPL will lock horns against each other in a bid to start the IPL 2020 campaign in a winning style. While Mumbai Indians have had an advantage in the head-to-head encounters, with the Rohit Sharma-led outfit winning 17 as comparison to CSK’s 11 win.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fit-and-fresh-dhoni-ready-to-lead-chennai-in-ipl-2020-328585">'Fit and Fresh' Dhoni ready to lead Chennai in IPL</a>

All eyes will be on MS Dhoni as ‘Thala’ is set to mark his return to the cricket field after playing his last match in the ICC World Cup 2019 semi-final against New Zealand. Dhoni has led CSK to three IPL titles and remains one of the best captain of all-time in cricketing history. However, he hasn’t played any sort of professional cricket for over a year and that might play a major role in today’s match as it could take some time before he gets back to match-rhythm and his usual attacking flow.&nbsp;

Same goes for Shane Watson, Murali Vijay, Piyush Chawla and other players of the CSK squad who haven't played that much of cricket in the past 12 months. And that could take some time for CSK to return to their usual mojo.&nbsp;

Both teams are looking terrific on paper. However, CSK will be missing the services of Suresh Raina and Harbhajan Singh whereas Mumbai Indians will be without Lasith Malinga, which can put pressure on other players.&nbsp;

The match will be played at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi, where the average first innings score in T20s is 137 with the highest being 225. Teams bowling first have had a slight advantage when it comes to winning matches.

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-trivia-top-records-of-thala-ms-dhoni-in-the-tournament-328205" hreflang="en">IPL trivia: Top records of 'Thala' MS Dhoni in the tournament</a>

Mumbai Indians will look forward to the form of Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav and Pandya brothers along with Jasprit Bumrah as they form the core of the team. However, all eyes will be on Kieron Pollard given his sensational form in the recently concluded team.

<h2>Predicted Chennai Super Kings Playing XI –</h2>

S Watson, Faf Du Plessis, A Rayudu, K Jadhav, MS Dhoni (C &amp; WK), R Jadeja, D Bravo, D Chahar, P Chawla, I Tahir, L Ngidi

<h2>Predicted Mumbai Indians Playing XI –</h2>

R Sharma (C), Q De Kock (WK), I Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Krunal Pandya, K Pollard, H Pandya, Nathan Coulter-Nile, R Chahar, T Boult, J Bumrah&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The biggest T20 tournament in the world is back as Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 is all set to commence from today with defending champions Mumbai Indians (MI) taking on MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi.

The biggest T20 tournament in the world is back as Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 is all set to commence from today with defending champions Mumbai Indians (MI) taking on MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi. Two of the most successful teams – MI and CSK - in IPL will lock horns against each other in a bid to start the IPL 2020 campaign in a winning style. While Mumbai Indians have had an advantage in the head-to-head encounters, with the Rohit Sharma-led outfit winning 17 as comparison to CSK’s 11 win. ALSO READ: 'Fit and Fresh' Dhoni ready to lead Chennai in IPL All eyes will be on MS Dhoni as ‘Thala’ is set to mark his return to the cricket field after playing his last match in the ICC World Cup 2019 semi-final against New Zealand. Dhoni has led CSK to three IPL titles and remains one of the best captain of all-time in cricketing history. However, he hasn’t played any sort of professional cricket for over a year and that might play a major role in today’s match as it could take some time before he gets back to match-rhythm and his usual attacking flow. Same goes for Shane Watson, Murali Vijay, Piyush Chawla and other players of the CSK squad who haven't played that much of cricket in the past 12 months. And that could take some time for CSK to return to their usual mojo. Both teams are looking terrific on paper. However, CSK will be missing the services of Suresh Raina and Harbhajan Singh whereas Mumbai Indians will be without Lasith Malinga, which can put pressure on other players. The match will be played at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi, where the average first innings score in T20s is 137 with the highest being 225. Teams bowling first have had a slight advantage when it comes to winning matches. IN PICS | IPL trivia: Top records of 'Thala' MS Dhoni in the tournament Mumbai Indians will look forward to the form of Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav and Pandya brothers along with Jasprit Bumrah as they form the core of the team. However, all eyes will be on Kieron Pollard given his sensational form in the recently concluded team. Predicted Chennai Super Kings Playing XI – S Watson, Faf Du Plessis, A Rayudu, K Jadhav, MS Dhoni (C & WK), R Jadeja, D Bravo, D Chahar, P Chawla, I Tahir, L Ngidi Predicted Mumbai Indians Playing XI – R Sharma (C), Q De Kock (WK), I Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Krunal Pandya, K Pollard, H Pandya, Nathan Coulter-Nile, R Chahar, T Boult, J Bumrah

MI vs CSK, IPL 2020 Preview: MS Dhoni returns but will it be sufficient in front of defending champions?

Earlier this year, as the COVID-19 pandemic gripped the world, countless&nbsp;frontline&nbsp;workers risked their lives for the sake of others, with their selfless efforts. As a small token of gratitude, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL)</a> franchise Delhi Capitals, through its digital initiative "Salaam Dilli", recognised the contribution of some frontline workers from Delhi NCR.

Inspired and humbled by the efforts of these courageous citizens, the Delhi Capitals official match jersey will bear the "Thank You COVID Warriors" message for the entire duration of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">IPL 2020</a>.

On Thursday, members of the Delhi Capitals squad, including CEO Mr. Dhiraj Malhotra, Assistant Coach Mohammad Kaif, and senior players Ishant Sharma and Amit Mishra, interacted with these COVID heroes through a virtual meet. On the occasion, the participants also unboxed a surprise delivery package, which comprised a letter of gratitude and personalised jerseys on behalf of the Delhi Capitals team.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-trivia-top-records-of-thala-ms-dhoni-in-the-tournament-328205" hreflang="en">IPL trivia: Top records of 'Thala' MS Dhoni in the tournament</a>

Under the 'Salaam Dilli' initiative, Delhi Capitals featured the following COVID warriors from the city:

<ul>
	<li>Ms. Manika Bhadwar: Fed underprivileged people through her own kitchen&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Ms. Pomilla Gupta: Ran a kitchen for stray dogs during the lockdown&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Mr. Sourav Das &amp; Mrs. Laxmi Das - Distributed home-made masks for free, installed mask vending machines in public places&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Dr. Atul Gogia - Stood at the frontline to treat COVID patients&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Ms. Niharika Dwivedi - Donated personal savings to buy air tickets for a family of migrant workers&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Mr. Amit Phogat &amp; Mr. Ravinder Dharwal - Delhi Police constables who donated, and ran a plasma donation network&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Here's what members of the Delhi Capitals squad had to say during the interaction:

WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-exclusive-australias-josh-hazlewood-on-ipl-2020-csk-and-ms-dhoni-and-india-series-316501" hreflang="en">WION Exclusive: Australia's Josh Hazlewood on IPL 2020, CSK and MS Dhoni and India series</a>

Ishant Sharma&nbsp;"Throughout the pandemic, frontline workers have dedicated themselves to protecting&nbsp;our population. To all the sanitation workers, doctors, security forces, blood donors, social workers, drivers, and their respective families - this small token of thanks from our team is testament of your service towards humanity."

Amit Mishra&nbsp;"It is heartening to see youngsters like Nikarika working and supporting people during these difficult times. Words are not enough to thank these COVID warriors. A big Salaam from all of us for you. As our world continues to battle and survive this pandemic, it’s efforts like yours that will continue to inspire, and make a difference."

Dhiraj Malhotra&nbsp;"At Delhi Capitals, we believe there’s no work greater than service to others. And to serve others amidst a global pandemic, and to take on the responsibility of keeping countless lives safe, is tremendous, to say the least. We’d like to take this opportunity to thank you all from the bottom of our hearts, for your unparalleled service in these tough times going beyond the call of duty."

Mohammad Kaif&nbsp;"It takes real selflessness, humility and desire to be able to put others first in this battle for survival. Therefore, I would like to express my huge gratitude to all of you for making the world a better place. I want to salute you, the real warriors, on behalf of the DC family."&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Earlier this year, as the COVID-19 pandemic gripped the world, countless frontline workers risked their lives for the sake of others, with their selfless efforts.

Earlier this year, as the COVID-19 pandemic gripped the world, countless frontline workers risked their lives for the sake of others, with their selfless efforts. As a small token of gratitude, Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Delhi Capitals, through its digital initiative "Salaam Dilli", recognised the contribution of some frontline workers from Delhi NCR. Inspired and humbled by the efforts of these courageous citizens, the Delhi Capitals official match jersey will bear the "Thank You COVID Warriors" message for the entire duration of IPL 2020. On Thursday, members of the Delhi Capitals squad, including CEO Mr. Dhiraj Malhotra, Assistant Coach Mohammad Kaif, and senior players Ishant Sharma and Amit Mishra, interacted with these COVID heroes through a virtual meet. On the occasion, the participants also unboxed a surprise delivery package, which comprised a letter of gratitude and personalised jerseys on behalf of the Delhi Capitals team. ALSO READ: IPL trivia: Top records of 'Thala' MS Dhoni in the tournament Under the 'Salaam Dilli' initiative, Delhi Capitals featured the following COVID warriors from the city: Ms. Manika Bhadwar: Fed underprivileged people through her own kitchen Ms. Pomilla Gupta: Ran a kitchen for stray dogs during the lockdown Mr. Sourav Das & Mrs. Laxmi Das - Distributed home-made masks for free, installed mask vending machines in public places Dr. Atul Gogia - Stood at the frontline to treat COVID patients Ms. Niharika Dwivedi - Donated personal savings to buy air tickets for a family of migrant workers Mr. Amit Phogat & Mr. Ravinder Dharwal - Delhi Police constables who donated, and ran a plasma donation network Here's what members of the Delhi Capitals squad had to say during the interaction: WATCH: WION Exclusive: Australia's Josh Hazlewood on IPL 2020, CSK and MS Dhoni and India series Ishant Sharma "Throughout the pandemic, frontline workers have dedicated themselves to protecting our population. To all the sanitation workers, doctors, security forces, blood donors, social workers, drivers, and their respective families - this small token of thanks from our team is testament of your service towards humanity." Amit Mishra "It is heartening to see youngsters like Nikarika working and supporting people during these difficult times. Words are not enough to thank these COVID warriors. A big Salaam from all of us for you. As our world continues to battle and survive this pandemic, it’s efforts like yours that will continue to inspire, and make a difference." Dhiraj Malhotra "At Delhi Capitals, we believe there’s no work greater than service to others. And to serve others amidst a global pandemic, and to take on the responsibility of keeping countless lives safe, is tremendous, to say the least. We’d like to take this opportunity to thank you all from the bottom of our hearts, for your unparalleled service in these tough times going beyond the call of duty." Mohammad Kaif "It takes real selflessness, humility and desire to be able to put others first in this battle for survival. Therefore, I would like to express my huge gratitude to all of you for making the world a better place. I want to salute you, the real warriors, on behalf of the DC family."

IPL 2020: Delhi Capitals salute COVID Warriors from the national capital

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl-2020">Indian Premier League</a> starts on Saturday, five months late and shifted to the United Arab Emirates because of the coronavirus pandemic.

AFP Sport highlights five players to watch in the 53-day Twenty20 extravaganza.

<h2>- Virat Kohli (Royal Challengers Bangalore) -</h2>

Captain Kohli will be key to Royal Challengers Bangalore's hopes in the 13th edition of the tournament.&nbsp;

The star batsman hasn't been at his best in the T20 tournament, save the 2016 edition when he scored 640 runs in 16 matches to guide Bangalore to a runner-up finish.

But with 'King Kohli' backed by big guns including South Africa's AB de Villiers and&nbsp;Aaron Finch of Australia, Bangalore will be optimistic about doing better than last year, when they finished with the wooden spoon.

<h2>- David Warner (Sunrisers Hyderabad) -</h2>

Back as captain of Sunrisers Hyderabad two years after being replaced over a cheating scandal, Warner is aiming for the top.

The explosive opener smashed 692 runs from 12 matches last year after being barred from the 2018 edition over the 'Sandpapergate' affair during a Test against South Africa.&nbsp;

But Warner's leadership and exploits with the bat helped Hyderabad clinch the 2016 title, and he is looking for a repeat of that in the UAE.&nbsp;

"I am sure I will be doing my very, very best to try and lift the IPL trophy coming this year," he said, after being reinstated as Hyderabad skipper.

<h2>- Jos Buttler (Rajasthan Royals) -</h2>

Buttler has formed the backbone of England's one-day batting since their World Cup triumph last year and is a key player of his IPL team, the Rajasthan Royals.

The wicketkeeper-batsman recently hit his T20 international best of 77 not out against Australia in what seemed a perfect tune-up for the IPL.&nbsp;

Buttler, who has a strike rate of over 150 in the IPL, plays alongside fellow countrymen Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer for the inaugural champions, who will be hoping to do better than last year when they finished seventh.

<h2>- Andre Russell (Kolkata Knight Riders) -</h2>

A West Indian power-hitter who has single-handedly won games for Kolkata Knight Riders, Russell is any bowler's nightmare.&nbsp;

The all-rounder was the IPL's Most Valuable Player last year, with 11 wickets and 510 runs for Kolkata.&nbsp;

The two-time champions are considering promoting the middle-order batsman to the number three position and get the maximum out of his attacking play.

"If he comes in at number three and bats 60 balls, he might even score a double-hundred. Anything can happen with 'Dre' Russ. He is almost the heartbeat of the team," said KKR team mentor David Hussey.

<h2>- Rashid Khan (Sunrisers Hyderabad) -</h2>

The Afghanistan spin sensation passed 300 T20 wickets during the recently concluded Caribbean Premier League.&nbsp;

Rashid, 21, has plied his trade in T20 leagues across the globe but it was his exploits for the IPL's Hyderabad team that grabbed the most attention.&nbsp;

The world's top-ranked T20 bowler has claimed 55 wickets in 46 IPL games and is handy as a lower-order batsman.

According to his Hyderabad team-mate Bhuvneshwar Kumar, having Rashid is "is always a delight for any team".

The Indian Premier League starts on Saturday, five months late and shifted to the United Arab Emirates because of the coronavirus pandemic. AFP Sport highlights five players to watch in the 53-day Twenty20 extravaganza.

The Indian Premier League starts on Saturday, five months late and shifted to the United Arab Emirates because of the coronavirus pandemic. AFP Sport highlights five players to watch in the 53-day Twenty20 extravaganza. - Virat Kohli (Royal Challengers Bangalore) - Captain Kohli will be key to Royal Challengers Bangalore's hopes in the 13th edition of the tournament. The star batsman hasn't been at his best in the T20 tournament, save the 2016 edition when he scored 640 runs in 16 matches to guide Bangalore to a runner-up finish. But with 'King Kohli' backed by big guns including South Africa's AB de Villiers and Aaron Finch of Australia, Bangalore will be optimistic about doing better than last year, when they finished with the wooden spoon. - David Warner (Sunrisers Hyderabad) - Back as captain of Sunrisers Hyderabad two years after being replaced over a cheating scandal, Warner is aiming for the top. The explosive opener smashed 692 runs from 12 matches last year after being barred from the 2018 edition over the 'Sandpapergate' affair during a Test against South Africa. But Warner's leadership and exploits with the bat helped Hyderabad clinch the 2016 title, and he is looking for a repeat of that in the UAE. "I am sure I will be doing my very, very best to try and lift the IPL trophy coming this year," he said, after being reinstated as Hyderabad skipper. - Jos Buttler (Rajasthan Royals) - Buttler has formed the backbone of England's one-day batting since their World Cup triumph last year and is a key player of his IPL team, the Rajasthan Royals. The wicketkeeper-batsman recently hit his T20 international best of 77 not out against Australia in what seemed a perfect tune-up for the IPL. Buttler, who has a strike rate of over 150 in the IPL, plays alongside fellow countrymen Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer for the inaugural champions, who will be hoping to do better than last year when they finished seventh. - Andre Russell (Kolkata Knight Riders) - A West Indian power-hitter who has single-handedly won games for Kolkata Knight Riders, Russell is any bowler's nightmare. The all-rounder was the IPL's Most Valuable Player last year, with 11 wickets and 510 runs for Kolkata. The two-time champions are considering promoting the middle-order batsman to the number three position and get the maximum out of his attacking play. "If he comes in at number three and bats 60 balls, he might even score a double-hundred. Anything can happen with 'Dre' Russ. He is almost the heartbeat of the team," said KKR team mentor David Hussey. - Rashid Khan (Sunrisers Hyderabad) - The Afghanistan spin sensation passed 300 T20 wickets during the recently concluded Caribbean Premier League. Rashid, 21, has plied his trade in T20 leagues across the globe but it was his exploits for the IPL's Hyderabad team that grabbed the most attention. The world's top-ranked T20 bowler has claimed 55 wickets in 46 IPL games and is handy as a lower-order batsman. According to his Hyderabad team-mate Bhuvneshwar Kumar, having Rashid is "is always a delight for any team".

From King Kohli to Afghan spin wizard: five to watch in IPL 2020

Liverpool face an early test of their Premier League title defence against Chelsea this weekend as Manchester City and Manchester United launch their quest to be champions.

Arsenal, Everton and Leicester hope to build on encouraging opening wins while Jose Mourinho needs a morale-boosting victory for Tottenham.

AFP Sport looks at some of the main talking points ahead of the action.

<h2>Will big-spending Chelsea make Liverpool pay?</h2>

Chelsea's meeting with Liverpool at Stamford Bridge on Sunday has added edge after a feisty exchange between the managers over transfer spending.&nbsp;

The London club finished 33 points behind the champions last season but have splashed out around £200 million ($259 million) on new players.

By contrast, Liverpool have been relatively quiet, adding just Greece left-back Kostas Tsimikas so far, with Spain midfielder Thiago Alcantara likely to follow.

Jurgen Klopp pointedly said Liverpool could not spend in the same way as clubs owned by "countries" and "oligarchs" such as City and Chelsea during the coronavirus pandemic.

But Frank Lampard, who also became embroiled in a spat with Liverpool's bench in July, pointed out the Anfield side had spent big in previous seasons as they built their title-winning side.

Liverpool will be keen to cut out the defensive errors they committed in a 4-3 win against newly-promoted Leeds, but Mohamed Salah looked in fine early season form as he scored a hat-trick on the opening weekend.

Chelsea were also unconvincing winners against Brighton in their opening match, but Timo Werner, who chose to join the Blues despite interest from Liverpool, did impress in winning a penalty against the Seagulls.

<h2>Manchester City's tough task</h2>

Manchester City are the bookmakers' favourites to land a third Premier League trophy in four seasons but face a tough opener against Wolves.

City boss Pep Guardiola has shored up his defence by signing Netherlands international Nathan Ake and has added to his rich attacking options, landing Ferran Torres from Valencia.

City scored 102 goals last season as they finished second, but lost nine matches as they surrendered their crown to Liverpool.

Both Manchester clubs are starting a week later than other sides due to their European commitments last season.

Guardiola will be painfully aware that his team must be more consistent this campaign and he cannot afford to let Klopp's men open up an early lead.

But he will feel nervous as he travels to face Wolves, who beat City twice last season, after a disrupted pre-season.

City duo Aymeric Laporte and Riyad Mahrez tested positive for coronavirus earlier this month, while Phil Foden was sent home by England after breaking coronavirus protocols while on international duty.

<h2>Can Man Utd progress?</h2>

The challenge facing Ole Gunnar Solskjaer ahead of a match against Crystal Palace is how to improve on last season's third-place finish.

Midfielder Bruno Fernandes was the catalyst as United put together a long unbeaten run, with a front three of Anthony Martial, Marcus Rashford and Mason Greenwood providing the firepower.

But United have been relatively quiet in the transfer window, so far adding just midfielder Donny van de Beek from Ajax, despite persistent speculation linking them with Borussia Dortmund's Jadon Sancho.

"When we signed Bruno Fernandes, we knew we needed that kind of player -- now we've signed Donny and he's a type of player I felt we needed in the squad," said Solskjaer.

<h2>Arsenal's feel-good factor</h2>

Arsenal are buoyant after launching their season with a 3-0 win at newly promoted Fulham and tying down captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang for three more years.

Mikel Arteta's men, who host West Ham on Saturday, finished down in eighth place last season but ended their campaign on a high, winning the FA Cup for a record 14th time.

They followed that up by beating Liverpool on penalties in the season-opening Community Shield before the announcement on Aubameyang this week that fans had craved.

"I want to become an Arsenal legend just like Thierry (Henry), Wrighty (Ian Wright), (Tony) Adams and (Dennis) Bergkamp," he said.

Fixtures

Saturday

Everton v West Brom (1130 GMT), Leeds v Fulham (1400), Manchester United v Crystal Palace (1630), Arsenal v West Ham (1900)

Sunday

Southampton v Tottenham (1100), Newcastle v Brighton (1300), Chelsea v Liverpool (1530), Leicester v Burnley (1800)

Monday

Aston Villa v Sheffield United (1700), Wolves v Manchester City (1915)

Liverpool face an early test of their Premier League title defence against Chelsea this weekend as Manchester City and Manchester United launch their quest to be champions.

Liverpool face an early test of their Premier League title defence against Chelsea this weekend as Manchester City and Manchester United launch their quest to be champions. Arsenal, Everton and Leicester hope to build on encouraging opening wins while Jose Mourinho needs a morale-boosting victory for Tottenham. AFP Sport looks at some of the main talking points ahead of the action. Will big-spending Chelsea make Liverpool pay? Chelsea's meeting with Liverpool at Stamford Bridge on Sunday has added edge after a feisty exchange between the managers over transfer spending. The London club finished 33 points behind the champions last season but have splashed out around £200 million ($259 million) on new players. By contrast, Liverpool have been relatively quiet, adding just Greece left-back Kostas Tsimikas so far, with Spain midfielder Thiago Alcantara likely to follow. Jurgen Klopp pointedly said Liverpool could not spend in the same way as clubs owned by "countries" and "oligarchs" such as City and Chelsea during the coronavirus pandemic. But Frank Lampard, who also became embroiled in a spat with Liverpool's bench in July, pointed out the Anfield side had spent big in previous seasons as they built their title-winning side. Liverpool will be keen to cut out the defensive errors they committed in a 4-3 win against newly-promoted Leeds, but Mohamed Salah looked in fine early season form as he scored a hat-trick on the opening weekend. Chelsea were also unconvincing winners against Brighton in their opening match, but Timo Werner, who chose to join the Blues despite interest from Liverpool, did impress in winning a penalty against the Seagulls. Manchester City's tough task Manchester City are the bookmakers' favourites to land a third Premier League trophy in four seasons but face a tough opener against Wolves. City boss Pep Guardiola has shored up his defence by signing Netherlands international Nathan Ake and has added to his rich attacking options, landing Ferran Torres from Valencia. City scored 102 goals last season as they finished second, but lost nine matches as they surrendered their crown to Liverpool. Both Manchester clubs are starting a week later than other sides due to their European commitments last season. Guardiola will be painfully aware that his team must be more consistent this campaign and he cannot afford to let Klopp's men open up an early lead. But he will feel nervous as he travels to face Wolves, who beat City twice last season, after a disrupted pre-season. City duo Aymeric Laporte and Riyad Mahrez tested positive for coronavirus earlier this month, while Phil Foden was sent home by England after breaking coronavirus protocols while on international duty. Can Man Utd progress? The challenge facing Ole Gunnar Solskjaer ahead of a match against Crystal Palace is how to improve on last season's third-place finish. Midfielder Bruno Fernandes was the catalyst as United put together a long unbeaten run, with a front three of Anthony Martial, Marcus Rashford and Mason Greenwood providing the firepower. But United have been relatively quiet in the transfer window, so far adding just midfielder Donny van de Beek from Ajax, despite persistent speculation linking them with Borussia Dortmund's Jadon Sancho. "When we signed Bruno Fernandes, we knew we needed that kind of player -- now we've signed Donny and he's a type of player I felt we needed in the squad," said Solskjaer. Arsenal's feel-good factor Arsenal are buoyant after launching their season with a 3-0 win at newly promoted Fulham and tying down captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang for three more years. Mikel Arteta's men, who host West Ham on Saturday, finished down in eighth place last season but ended their campaign on a high, winning the FA Cup for a record 14th time. They followed that up by beating Liverpool on penalties in the season-opening Community Shield before the announcement on Aubameyang this week that fans had craved. "I want to become an Arsenal legend just like Thierry (Henry), Wrighty (Ian Wright), (Tony) Adams and (Dennis) Bergkamp," he said. Fixtures Saturday Everton v West Brom (1130 GMT), Leeds v Fulham (1400), Manchester United v Crystal Palace (1630), Arsenal v West Ham (1900) Sunday Southampton v Tottenham (1100), Newcastle v Brighton (1300), Chelsea v Liverpool (1530), Leicester v Burnley (1800) Monday Aston Villa v Sheffield United (1700), Wolves v Manchester City (1915)

Liverpool face Chelsea test as Manchester clubs enter fray

Premier League clubs on Thursday urged the government to stick to its proposal to allow a partial return of fans to stadiums from October 1.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said last week ministers would review the target date for a return of crowds following a spike in coronavirus cases.

Pilot events are currently restricted to 1,000 spectators.

The English top-flight was forced to finish last season behind closed doors and the new campaign has also started in empty stadiums.

The Premier League and its clubs emphasised their commitment to safety after meeting on Thursday.

"Safety remains the number-one priority and clubs reiterated their commitment to ensuring Premier League stadiums will be among the safest public places,&nbsp;through the effective use of a wide range of mitigation measures," the Premier League said in a statement.

"Clubs will adopt a range of common standards, which will help deliver bio-secure, safe environments for fans across the league."

Top-flight clubs stated the loss of matchday revenues was having a "significant impact" across the league and throughout the football pyramid.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Taking into account the high safety standards which will be set by the Premier League in conjunction with the relevant public authorities, the league and clubs urge government to remain committed to&nbsp;the 1 October&nbsp;date for the controlled return of fans to sporting venues," the statement said.

Seven English Football League matches are set to be played in front of crowds of up to 1,000 this weekend, in the second, third and fourth tiers.

The government granted the EFL permission to use selected fixtures as pilot events to reintroduce spectators to venues on a socially distanced basis.

Premier League clubs on Thursday urged the government to stick to its proposal to allow a partial return of fans to stadiums from October 1. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said last week ministers would review the target date for a return of crowds following a spike in coronavirus cases.

Premier League clubs on Thursday urged the government to stick to its proposal to allow a partial return of fans to stadiums from October 1. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said last week ministers would review the target date for a return of crowds following a spike in coronavirus cases. Pilot events are currently restricted to 1,000 spectators. The English top-flight was forced to finish last season behind closed doors and the new campaign has also started in empty stadiums. The Premier League and its clubs emphasised their commitment to safety after meeting on Thursday. "Safety remains the number-one priority and clubs reiterated their commitment to ensuring Premier League stadiums will be among the safest public places, through the effective use of a wide range of mitigation measures," the Premier League said in a statement. "Clubs will adopt a range of common standards, which will help deliver bio-secure, safe environments for fans across the league." Top-flight clubs stated the loss of matchday revenues was having a "significant impact" across the league and throughout the football pyramid. "Taking into account the high safety standards which will be set by the Premier League in conjunction with the relevant public authorities, the league and clubs urge government to remain committed to the 1 October date for the controlled return of fans to sporting venues," the statement said. Seven English Football League matches are set to be played in front of crowds of up to 1,000 this weekend, in the second, third and fourth tiers. The government granted the EFL permission to use selected fixtures as pilot events to reintroduce spectators to venues on a socially distanced basis.

Premier League urges government to stick to October date for fans' return

Naomi Osaka, who captured her third Grand Slam title at the US Open on September 12, pulled out of the upcoming French Open with a hamstring injury on Thursday.

"Unfortunately I won't be able to play the French Open this year," Osaka said in posts on Instagram and Twitter. "My hamstring is still sore so I won't have enough time to prepare for the clay - these two tournaments came too close to each other for me this year."

The French Open is due to start on September 27 at Roland Garros, rescheduled from earlier in the year because of the coronavirus pandemic.

On Sunday, Osaka rallied from a set down to beat Victoria Azarenka 1-6, 6-3, 6-3 in the US Open women's final, adding a third major trophy after her victories at the 2018 US Open and 2019 Australian Open triumphs.

The 22-year-old was the first woman to win the US Open singles final from a set down since 1994, and the victory moved her to third in the WTA rankings.

She also became the first Asian player to win three Grand Slams, overtaking China's Li Na on two.

Osaka had gone into the US Open at Flushing Meadows with fitness concerns.

She pulled out of the WTA final of the Western &amp; Southern Open -- also held this year at Flushing Meadows -- with a left hamstring injury just two days before the start of the Grand Slam in New York.

She said she pulled the muscle in her semi-final victory.

Osaka played her US Open matches with her left thigh heavily strapped, but showed no sign the injury hindered her.

The US Open, normally the final Grand Slam in a season, was just the second major to be played in 2020 after the Australian Open in January.

The COVID-19 pandemic brought tennis to a halt along with the rest of global sport, with Wimbledon cancelled completely and Roland Garros moved from its usual May start to September 27-October 11.

Unlike the US Open, organizers at Roland Garros will admit fans, although it was announced Thursday that the number of spectators will be limited to 5,000 per day.

Organizers had originally hoped to accommodate 20,000 spectators per day.

Defending women's champion Ashleigh Barty of Australia announced earlier this month that she would not defend her title because she feared participation still carried health risks and because she had not been able to train properly with her coach because of the state border closures in Australia.

Naomi Osaka, who captured her third Grand Slam title at the US Open on September 12, pulled out of the upcoming French Open with a hamstring injury on Thursday. "Unfortunately I won't be able to play the French Open this year," Osaka said in posts on Instagram and Twitter.

Naomi Osaka, who captured her third Grand Slam title at the US Open on September 12, pulled out of the upcoming French Open with a hamstring injury on Thursday. "Unfortunately I won't be able to play the French Open this year," Osaka said in posts on Instagram and Twitter. "My hamstring is still sore so I won't have enough time to prepare for the clay - these two tournaments came too close to each other for me this year." The French Open is due to start on September 27 at Roland Garros, rescheduled from earlier in the year because of the coronavirus pandemic. On Sunday, Osaka rallied from a set down to beat Victoria Azarenka 1-6, 6-3, 6-3 in the US Open women's final, adding a third major trophy after her victories at the 2018 US Open and 2019 Australian Open triumphs. The 22-year-old was the first woman to win the US Open singles final from a set down since 1994, and the victory moved her to third in the WTA rankings. She also became the first Asian player to win three Grand Slams, overtaking China's Li Na on two. Osaka had gone into the US Open at Flushing Meadows with fitness concerns. She pulled out of the WTA final of the Western & Southern Open -- also held this year at Flushing Meadows -- with a left hamstring injury just two days before the start of the Grand Slam in New York. She said she pulled the muscle in her semi-final victory. Osaka played her US Open matches with her left thigh heavily strapped, but showed no sign the injury hindered her. The US Open, normally the final Grand Slam in a season, was just the second major to be played in 2020 after the Australian Open in January. The COVID-19 pandemic brought tennis to a halt along with the rest of global sport, with Wimbledon cancelled completely and Roland Garros moved from its usual May start to September 27-October 11. Unlike the US Open, organizers at Roland Garros will admit fans, although it was announced Thursday that the number of spectators will be limited to 5,000 per day. Organizers had originally hoped to accommodate 20,000 spectators per day. Defending women's champion Ashleigh Barty of Australia announced earlier this month that she would not defend her title because she feared participation still carried health risks and because she had not been able to train properly with her coach because of the state border closures in Australia.

US Open champion Osaka withdraws from French Open with injury

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> club Liverpool on Friday announced the signing of Spanish midfielder Thiago Alcantara from Bayern Munich for a reported fee of £20 million ($26 million) on Friday.

Thiago agreed upon a “long-term contract” with the Premier League champions after ending his seven-year stay with German giants Bayern Munich. Thiago comes with a massive reputation of being one of the top midfielders and was in excellent form in the 2019-20 season where he helped Bayern Munich lift the treble of UEFA Champions League, Bundesliga trophy and German Cup.

"I think it's an amazing feeling. I was waiting for this moment for a long time and I am very happy to be here," Thiago told Liverpool's website.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-sergio-aguero-and-aymeric-laporte-unavailable-against-wolves-confirms-pep-guardiola-328450" hreflang="en">Premier League: Sergio Aguero and Aymeric Laporte unavailable against Wolves, confirms Pep Guardiola</a>

“When the years are passing, you are trying to win as much as you can – and when you win, you want to win more. I think this club describes what I am as well; I want to achieve all of the goals, win as many trophies as possible.

“It also [has] this kind of family [feeling] that I need because we [like to] have a very close relationship with the club and I think I will feel this, I will have this feeling, with this club as well.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-face-chelsea-test-as-manchester-clubs-enter-fray-328329" hreflang="en">Liverpool face Chelsea test as Manchester clubs enter fray</a>

Thiago moves to Anfield fresh from helping Bayern clinch a prestigious treble as they won the Bundesliga, German cup and Champions League in 2019-20, during which he featured 40 times.

Premier League club Liverpool on Friday announced the signing of Spanish midfielder Thiago Alcantara from Bayern Munich for a reported fee of £20 million ($26 million) on Friday.

Premier League club Liverpool on Friday announced the signing of Spanish midfielder Thiago Alcantara from Bayern Munich for a reported fee of £20 million ($26 million) on Friday. Thiago agreed upon a “long-term contract” with the Premier League champions after ending his seven-year stay with German giants Bayern Munich. Thiago comes with a massive reputation of being one of the top midfielders and was in excellent form in the 2019-20 season where he helped Bayern Munich lift the treble of UEFA Champions League, Bundesliga trophy and German Cup. "I think it's an amazing feeling. I was waiting for this moment for a long time and I am very happy to be here," Thiago told Liverpool's website. ALSO READ: Premier League: Sergio Aguero and Aymeric Laporte unavailable against Wolves, confirms Pep Guardiola “When the years are passing, you are trying to win as much as you can – and when you win, you want to win more. I think this club describes what I am as well; I want to achieve all of the goals, win as many trophies as possible. “It also [has] this kind of family [feeling] that I need because we [like to] have a very close relationship with the club and I think I will feel this, I will have this feeling, with this club as well.” ALSO READ: Liverpool face Chelsea test as Manchester clubs enter fray Thiago moves to Anfield fresh from helping Bayern clinch a prestigious treble as they won the Bundesliga, German cup and Champions League in 2019-20, during which he featured 40 times.

Liverpool sign Thiago Alcantara from Bayern Munich

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 season opener between defending champions Mumbai Indians and three-time winners Chennai Super Kings is less than 24 hours away. After over a&nbsp;year, MS Dhoni will be taking to the field in the match against Mumbai Indians and fans are already looking forward to witnessing former Indian skipper back in action again.

#WelcomeBackDhoni started to trend on social media platform Twitter as fans posted stats, photos, videos of Dhoni with more than 50,000 tweets. There has been lot of talks surrounding Dhoni’s comeback on field, more so ever after he announced his retirement from international cricket on August 15. While fans may not witness ‘Thala’ in action from stadiums, they will be tuning in on their televisions to catch a glimpse of the wicket-keeper batsman.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-trivia-top-records-of-thala-ms-dhoni-in-the-tournament-328205" hreflang="en">IPL trivia: Top records of 'Thala' MS Dhoni in the tournament</a>

<h2>Here's how #WelcomeBackDhoni trended on Twitter:</h2>

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Let’s look forward to dashing Dhoni’s dhamaka in Dubai!🤩🥳<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WelcomeBackDhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WelcomeBackDhoni</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChennaiIPL</a> <a href="https://t.co/pawSK02ZyP">pic.twitter.com/pawSK02ZyP</a>
— Whistle Podu Army ® - CSK Fan Club (@CSKFansOfficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/CSKFansOfficial/status/1306950487929806848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Most runs in last 4 overs 
Most runs in the last over 
Most wins as Captain 
Most dismissals as Keeper 
Most runs as Captain 
Most MOM as Captain 
Most not outs as Batsman 
Most sixes by an Indian 
Most MOM by an Indian 
Highest average by Indian player<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WelcomeBackDhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WelcomeBackDhoni</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MSDhoni</a>
— DHONIsm™ ❤️ (@DHONIism) <a href="https://twitter.com/DHONIism/status/1306949868686987264?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Done and dusted with the blues 
 
Need to do it again with the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Yellove?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Yellove</a> 🔥<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WelcomeBackDhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WelcomeBackDhoni</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MSDhoni</a> <a href="https://t.co/gUYOJHzhxj">pic.twitter.com/gUYOJHzhxj</a>
— DHONIsm™ ❤️ (@DHONIism) <a href="https://twitter.com/DHONIism/status/1306957487967531008?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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19:29 - MSD Retired !! 
 
19:30 - MSD will be coming back !! 
 
Destiny 🤞💥<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WelcomeBackDhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WelcomeBackDhoni</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChennaiIPL</a>
— DHONI Army TN™ (@DhoniArmyTN) <a href="https://twitter.com/DhoniArmyTN/status/1306949805445271552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Here is the Special Design to Welcome our beloved IDOL <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MSDhoni</a>. 💛<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WelcomeBackDhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WelcomeBackDhoni</a> 🦁🔥<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2020</a> • Design <a href="https://twitter.com/lingamalagar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@lingamalagar</a>..!! <a href="https://t.co/J72CcG16kQ">pic.twitter.com/J72CcG16kQ</a>
— DHONIsm™ ❤️ (@DHONIism) <a href="https://twitter.com/DHONIism/status/1306951639341826050?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Captain Cool, Well Said !!👌🦁💛<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WelcomeBackDhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WelcomeBackDhoni</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChennaiIPL</a> <a href="https://t.co/9Ds4aAWopO">pic.twitter.com/9Ds4aAWopO</a>
— CSK Fans Army™ (@CSKFansArmy) <a href="https://twitter.com/CSKFansArmy/status/1306959179660156940?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WelcomeBackDhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WelcomeBackDhoni</a> 🔥 
 
Art Artist <a href="https://t.co/CnkcXEo8xR">pic.twitter.com/CnkcXEo8xR</a>
— DHONI Tamil FC™ (@DhoniTamilFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/DhoniTamilFC/status/1306949986601414656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Helicopter Flying in the UAE !!🚁💥<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WelcomeBackDhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WelcomeBackDhoni</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CSK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CSK</a> <a href="https://t.co/6GvCZYscjA">pic.twitter.com/6GvCZYscjA</a>
— CSK Fans Army™ (@CSKFansArmy) <a href="https://twitter.com/CSKFansArmy/status/1306950150305116160?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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All We Need is Your Presence to Cherish &amp; Smile to Rejoice 🤗💛<a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MSDhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MSDhoni</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WelcomeBackDhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WelcomeBackDhoni</a> <a href="https://t.co/LGd9nnTQns">pic.twitter.com/LGd9nnTQns</a>
— Sharukh MSD™🦁 (@StanMSD) <a href="https://twitter.com/StanMSD/status/1306948840843436032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-hardik-pandya-jokingly-trolls-ms-dhoni-abd-reminds-him-not-to-mess-with-thala-328343" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Hardik Pandya Jokingly trolls MS Dhoni, ABD; reminds him not to mess with ‘Thala’</a>

CSK head coach Stephen Fleming, ahead of the match against Mumbai Indians, heaped praise on Dhoni as he said: “It has been no different. He’s very fit and mentally he’s been very engaged and determined. In some ways the break can work for the experienced and older players that we have. MS is fresh and ready to go,” Fleming told CSK’s official website.

Also termed as ‘El Clasico’ cricket, CSK vs MI will be the perfect season opener for IPL 2020. Talking about the match, Fleming said, the encounter always adds extra excitement and pressure.&nbsp;

“The first game is always full of anxiety, nerves and excitement, and CSK-MI has added extra excitement and pressure and we enjoy that. We’ve earned the right to play the first game by playing well last year, and given the way the final finished last year, it’s nice to have another crack at MI. They are a very good side and it gives you a good gauge as to how the pre-season has gone and the areas that need improvement. You get a good idea after the first game as to where your team is sitting,” Fleming said.

CSK will be without the likes of Suresh Raina and Harbhajan Singh who opted out of IPL 2020 citing personal reasons. 
&nbsp;

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 season opener between defending champions Mumbai Indians and three-time winners Chennai Super Kings is less than 24 hours away.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 season opener between defending champions Mumbai Indians and three-time winners Chennai Super Kings is less than 24 hours away. After over a year, MS Dhoni will be taking to the field in the match against Mumbai Indians and fans are already looking forward to witnessing former Indian skipper back in action again. #WelcomeBackDhoni started to trend on social media platform Twitter as fans posted stats, photos, videos of Dhoni with more than 50,000 tweets. There has been lot of talks surrounding Dhoni’s comeback on field, more so ever after he announced his retirement from international cricket on August 15. While fans may not witness ‘Thala’ in action from stadiums, they will be tuning in on their televisions to catch a glimpse of the wicket-keeper batsman. ALSO READ: IPL trivia: Top records of 'Thala' MS Dhoni in the tournament Here's how #WelcomeBackDhoni trended on Twitter: Let’s look forward to dashing Dhoni’s dhamaka in Dubai!🤩🥳#WelcomeBackDhoni @ChennaiIPL pic.twitter.com/pawSK02ZyP — Whistle Podu Army ® - CSK Fan Club (@CSKFansOfficial) September 18, 2020 × Most runs in last 4 overs Most runs in the last over Most wins as Captain Most dismissals as Keeper Most runs as Captain Most MOM as Captain Most not outs as Batsman Most sixes by an Indian Most MOM by an Indian Highest average by Indian player#WelcomeBackDhoni | @MSDhoni — DHONIsm™ ❤️ (@DHONIism) September 18, 2020 × Done and dusted with the blues Need to do it again with the #Yellove 🔥#WelcomeBackDhoni | @MSDhoni pic.twitter.com/gUYOJHzhxj — DHONIsm™ ❤️ (@DHONIism) September 18, 2020 × 19:29 - MSD Retired !! 19:30 - MSD will be coming back !! Destiny 🤞💥#WelcomeBackDhoni | @ChennaiIPL — DHONI Army TN™ (@DhoniArmyTN) September 18, 2020 × Here is the Special Design to Welcome our beloved IDOL @MSDhoni. 💛#WelcomeBackDhoni 🦁🔥#IPL2020 • Design @lingamalagar..!! pic.twitter.com/J72CcG16kQ — DHONIsm™ ❤️ (@DHONIism) September 18, 2020 × Captain Cool, Well Said !!👌🦁💛#WelcomeBackDhoni | @ChennaiIPL pic.twitter.com/9Ds4aAWopO — CSK Fans Army™ (@CSKFansArmy) September 18, 2020 × #WelcomeBackDhoni 🔥 Art Artist pic.twitter.com/CnkcXEo8xR — DHONI Tamil FC™ (@DhoniTamilFC) September 18, 2020 × Helicopter Flying in the UAE !!🚁💥#WelcomeBackDhoni | #CSK pic.twitter.com/6GvCZYscjA — CSK Fans Army™ (@CSKFansArmy) September 18, 2020 × All We Need is Your Presence to Cherish & Smile to Rejoice 🤗💛@msdhoni #MSDhoni #WelcomeBackDhoni pic.twitter.com/LGd9nnTQns — Sharukh MSD™🦁 (@StanMSD) September 18, 2020 × ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Hardik Pandya Jokingly trolls MS Dhoni, ABD; reminds him not to mess with ‘Thala’ CSK head coach Stephen Fleming, ahead of the match against Mumbai Indians, heaped praise on Dhoni as he said: “It has been no different. He’s very fit and mentally he’s been very engaged and determined. In some ways the break can work for the experienced and older players that we have. MS is fresh and ready to go,” Fleming told CSK’s official website. Also termed as ‘El Clasico’ cricket, CSK vs MI will be the perfect season opener for IPL 2020. Talking about the match, Fleming said, the encounter always adds extra excitement and pressure. “The first game is always full of anxiety, nerves and excitement, and CSK-MI has added extra excitement and pressure and we enjoy that. We’ve earned the right to play the first game by playing well last year, and given the way the final finished last year, it’s nice to have another crack at MI. They are a very good side and it gives you a good gauge as to how the pre-season has gone and the areas that need improvement. You get a good idea after the first game as to where your team is sitting,” Fleming said. CSK will be without the likes of Suresh Raina and Harbhajan Singh who opted out of IPL 2020 citing personal reasons.

IPL 2020: Ahead of MI vs CSK opener, #WelcomeBackDhoni trends on Twitter

Pep Guardiola on Friday confirmed that Sergio Aguero will miss Manchester City’s first <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League 2020-21</a> match against Wolves on Monday as he is yet to fully train and isn’t completely match-fit. However, the Spaniard said that Riyad Mahrez, who had tested positive for the coronavirus, will be available for the season opener after testing negative.&nbsp;

Talking about Wolves, Pep said that they are always a strong side and it will be a difficult game for the Blues.&nbsp;

"Wolves were always strong, even when they were in the Championship. It was always a difficult game but it will not be any more difficult as against Leicester or Leeds away. We know exactly how tough the Premier League is,” Pep said in pre-match press conference.

As Aymeric Laporte won’t be available for Man City on Monday, chances are high that new signing Nathan Ake might be handed his club debut.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-face-chelsea-test-as-manchester-clubs-enter-fray-328329" hreflang="en">Liverpool face Chelsea test as Manchester clubs enter fray</a>

"We bought Nathan Ake as a centre-back, but sometimes he can help us as a full-back. Maybe if we get injuries, he can play there." 
When asked about the transfer of highly-linked player Kalidou Kouilbaly or any other incoming transfers, Pep said he never speaks about other players in front of the media. "No. I don’t talk in the media about the transfer window,” Pep replied to WION’s query during the press conference.&nbsp;

"What’s going to happen is going to happen. If we stay with the players we have we'll be happy. Never before and never in the future am I going to complain. I'm lucky to have these players and to be at this club,” he added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-urges-government-to-stick-to-october-date-for-fans-return-328328" hreflang="en">Premier League urges government to stick to October date for fans' return</a>

In his last year of the current contract, Pep said he is content with the club from the day he arrived in Manchester while adding he knows the club will do the best for everyone including the player and manager.&nbsp;

"Since day one, when I arrived here I’m more than satisfied with what I had in the team. I know the club do absolutely everything to do their best, not just for me, but for all of us…” Pep concluded.

Man City are set to face Wolves in their first Premier League 2020-21 match on Monday and will looking to pose a better challenge for the title than the last season.

Pep Guardiola on Friday confirmed that Sergio Aguero will miss Manchester City’s first Premier League 2020-21 match against Wolves on Monday as he is yet to fully train and isn’t completely match-fit.

Pep Guardiola on Friday confirmed that Sergio Aguero will miss Manchester City’s first Premier League 2020-21 match against Wolves on Monday as he is yet to fully train and isn’t completely match-fit. However, the Spaniard said that Riyad Mahrez, who had tested positive for the coronavirus, will be available for the season opener after testing negative. Talking about Wolves, Pep said that they are always a strong side and it will be a difficult game for the Blues. "Wolves were always strong, even when they were in the Championship. It was always a difficult game but it will not be any more difficult as against Leicester or Leeds away. We know exactly how tough the Premier League is,” Pep said in pre-match press conference. As Aymeric Laporte won’t be available for Man City on Monday, chances are high that new signing Nathan Ake might be handed his club debut. ALSO READ: Liverpool face Chelsea test as Manchester clubs enter fray "We bought Nathan Ake as a centre-back, but sometimes he can help us as a full-back. Maybe if we get injuries, he can play there." When asked about the transfer of highly-linked player Kalidou Kouilbaly or any other incoming transfers, Pep said he never speaks about other players in front of the media. "No. I don’t talk in the media about the transfer window,” Pep replied to WION’s query during the press conference. "What’s going to happen is going to happen. If we stay with the players we have we'll be happy. Never before and never in the future am I going to complain. I'm lucky to have these players and to be at this club,” he added. ALSO READ: Premier League urges government to stick to October date for fans' return In his last year of the current contract, Pep said he is content with the club from the day he arrived in Manchester while adding he knows the club will do the best for everyone including the player and manager. "Since day one, when I arrived here I’m more than satisfied with what I had in the team. I know the club do absolutely everything to do their best, not just for me, but for all of us…” Pep concluded. Man City are set to face Wolves in their first Premier League 2020-21 match on Monday and will looking to pose a better challenge for the title than the last season.

Premier League: Sergio Aguero and Aymeric Laporte unavailable against Wolves, confirms Pep Guardiola

With England and Australian players joining in their respective franchises just days ahead of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl-2020">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a>, teams have been handed a massive relief as all the 21 players who arrived to the UAE from the United Kingdom will only have undergo 36 hours of quarantine contrary to the earlier reported six days.&nbsp;

All the franchises having English and Australian players had appealed to the BCCI for reducing quarantine period and the issue has now been sort out with the local authorities in the UAE.

According to PTI, English and Australian players will now have to under 36-hour quarantine period instead of six days which allows the team to have all their players available from the first game itself.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-rcb-release-new-anthem-usage-of-hindi-language-triggers-outrage-on-social-media-328409" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: RCB release new anthem, usage of 'Hindi language' triggers outrage on social media</a>

"Yes, I can confirm that all the English and Australian players have to now undergo 36-hour quarantine instead of six days. The matter has been sorted and most of the teams will now have their big stars available from the first game itself," a senior IPL functionary privy to development told PTI on conditions of anonymity.&nbsp;

The likes of Steve Smith, David Warner, Jofra Archer, Jos Buttler will arrive in the UAE late on Thursday night (UAE time) from the UK and on arrival will undergo RT-PCR test for COVID-19.

"They have undergone one rapid test before boarding (the flight) and will undergo another on arrival. Otherwise, the robust testing protocols will be followed as usual. The rationale behind the move is that all the players are entering from one bio-bubble to another," the veteran BCCI official said. The PTI had earlier reported that one of the senior players, an Australian superstar, had written a letter to BCCI president Ganguly requesting for a three-day quarantine, instead of six.

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2020-predicting-mvps-from-each-franchise-326829" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Predicting MVPs from each franchise</a>

Reportedly, the BCCI had a word with the officials of at least three franchises which have Australian and English players in their squad and the verdict has been satisfactory. "The BCCI did a great job in reducing the quarantine period to 36 hours. This means teams like Chennai Super Kings (Josh Hazlewood and Tom Curran), Rajasthan Royals (Smith, Buttler, Archer) will have all their players available from their first game. Ditto for Kings XI Punjab that has Glenn Maxwell in its roster and Delhi Capitals that has Alex Carry," a franchise official told PTI.

Mumbai Indians are the only franchise not boasting any English or Australian players who were a part of the recently concluded England vs Australia limited-overs series. Whereas Kolkata Knight Riders, who start their campaign on September 23 remain unaffected by the change of rules.&nbsp;

(With PTI inputs)

With England and Australian players joining in their respective franchises just days ahead of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, teams have been handed a massive relief as all the 21 players who arrived to the UAE from the United Kingdom will only have undergo 36 hours of quarantine contrary to the earlier reported six days.

With England and Australian players joining in their respective franchises just days ahead of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, teams have been handed a massive relief as all the 21 players who arrived to the UAE from the United Kingdom will only have undergo 36 hours of quarantine contrary to the earlier reported six days. All the franchises having English and Australian players had appealed to the BCCI for reducing quarantine period and the issue has now been sort out with the local authorities in the UAE. According to PTI, English and Australian players will now have to under 36-hour quarantine period instead of six days which allows the team to have all their players available from the first game itself. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: RCB release new anthem, usage of 'Hindi language' triggers outrage on social media "Yes, I can confirm that all the English and Australian players have to now undergo 36-hour quarantine instead of six days. The matter has been sorted and most of the teams will now have their big stars available from the first game itself," a senior IPL functionary privy to development told PTI on conditions of anonymity. The likes of Steve Smith, David Warner, Jofra Archer, Jos Buttler will arrive in the UAE late on Thursday night (UAE time) from the UK and on arrival will undergo RT-PCR test for COVID-19. "They have undergone one rapid test before boarding (the flight) and will undergo another on arrival. Otherwise, the robust testing protocols will be followed as usual. The rationale behind the move is that all the players are entering from one bio-bubble to another," the veteran BCCI official said. The PTI had earlier reported that one of the senior players, an Australian superstar, had written a letter to BCCI president Ganguly requesting for a three-day quarantine, instead of six. IN PICS | IPL 2020: Predicting MVPs from each franchise Reportedly, the BCCI had a word with the officials of at least three franchises which have Australian and English players in their squad and the verdict has been satisfactory. "The BCCI did a great job in reducing the quarantine period to 36 hours. This means teams like Chennai Super Kings (Josh Hazlewood and Tom Curran), Rajasthan Royals (Smith, Buttler, Archer) will have all their players available from their first game. Ditto for Kings XI Punjab that has Glenn Maxwell in its roster and Delhi Capitals that has Alex Carry," a franchise official told PTI. Mumbai Indians are the only franchise not boasting any English or Australian players who were a part of the recently concluded England vs Australia limited-overs series. Whereas Kolkata Knight Riders, who start their campaign on September 23 remain unaffected by the change of rules. (With PTI inputs)

IPL 2020: Relief for franchises as English and Australian players to undergo just 36-hour of quarantine

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) on Friday released their official anthem for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl-2020">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a>. While there was massive hype ahead of RCB anthem release, outrage was sparked on social media platform Twitter after RCB’s official handle posted the video song featuring the likes of Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, Yuzvendra Chahal among many others.&nbsp;

Fans were left upset over the use of Hindi language in RCB’s anthem as they questioned the franchise over the less usage of Kannada language in the anthem. Even former India cricketer and one of the stalwarts of Karnataka, Dodda Ganesh was left unimpressed with the new RCB anthem.&nbsp;

"The Official RCB Anthem is here! And it's dedicated to the best fans in the world. Time to crank up the volume to the maximum, 12th Man Army," RCB tweeted.

ALSO READ: '<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/my-covid-heroes-royal-challengers-bangalore-to-pay-tribute-to-frontline-warriors-in-ipl-2020-328178" hreflang="en">My Covid Heroes': RCB to pay tribute to frontline warriors in IPL 2020</a>

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The Official RCB Anthem is here! And it’s dedicated to the best fans in the world. Time to crank up the volume to the maximum, 12th Man Army. 🗣🔊<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PlayBold?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PlayBold</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2020</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeAreChallengers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeAreChallengers</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Dream11IPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Dream11IPL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RCBAnthem?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RCBAnthem</a> <a href="https://t.co/zUBMfSM4U5">pic.twitter.com/zUBMfSM4U5</a>
— Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets/status/1306797594073423872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Here's how the fans reacted on RCB's new anthem:</h2>

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No, Shashank. The outrage is a genuine one. Just like how the <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChennaiIPL</a> adds local flavour with Tamil, <a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RCBTweets</a>’ fans asking for a Kannada song, is justified. After all, it is Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Bengaluru’s official language is Kannada. <a href="https://t.co/sF4bVC42Ad">https://t.co/sF4bVC42Ad</a>
— ದೊಡ್ಡ ಗಣೇಶ್ | Dodda Ganesh (@doddaganesha) <a href="https://twitter.com/doddaganesha/status/1306848973622181888?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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The entire state is fighting a battle today to avoid Hindi imposition in the state of Karnataka. 
 
Comes RCB - Which represents the state of Kannada Nadu having a rich cricketing history releasing it's anthem which involves unnecessary use of Hindi. 
 
Embarrassing.
— Harish S Itagi (@HarishSItagi) <a href="https://twitter.com/HarishSItagi/status/1306802970554638336?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Y yis hindi mor than kannada? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Waar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Waar</a> 
Seaparat kannada hadilva nam kannada fans ge 
Paapa uella bejaru<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Waar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Waar</a> 🖖
— Mr. Nags ✌️ (@Thundrous0) <a href="https://twitter.com/Thundrous0/status/1306801677677150208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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With so much of Hindi lyrics in it... I don't feel like supporting it. RCB has fans from all over the country/ world, not Hindi regions only. And majorly from Karnataka, so Kannada would have been used more.
— ವಿಕಾಸ್ ಹೆಗಡೆ | Vikas Hegde (@hegde_vikas) <a href="https://twitter.com/hegde_vikas/status/1306840485458108416?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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This is thousand time better than ur useless anthem... <a href="https://t.co/ePSI1j70x3">pic.twitter.com/ePSI1j70x3</a>
— Unpaired_electron____* (@RockAlways_777) <a href="https://twitter.com/RockAlways_777/status/1306840667503562754?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Disappointed! Where's the local language?? Should have been in English and Kannada... Not Hindi...
— Hameed Pasha حمیدپاشا (@whitecrescent) <a href="https://twitter.com/whitecrescent/status/1306798348830154753?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Don't come up with a Kannada song later on to mend our wounds.. These wounds are more than a decade old and we are fed up of your callous attitude year after year.. 2/2
— ಮಲ್ಲಿಕಾರ್ಜುನ್ ಬಿ (Mallikarjun B) (@arjuna04) <a href="https://twitter.com/arjuna04/status/1306846176390664192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The <a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RCBTweets</a> Tale, 
 
1. They don't promote much of local Karnataka talent in their team. 
 
2. They hardly use Kannada. Take the new anthem for example, they have included few Kannada words so that there won't be any outrage from fans. 
 
Suggestion: Drop Bengaluru from your banner.
— Manjunath S (@NaanuManjunatha) <a href="https://twitter.com/NaanuManjunatha/status/1306868557553295365?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Please remove Hindi or remove Bangalore(bengaluru) from your team's name ,this is hijacking some ones identity <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StopHindiImposition?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StopHindiImposition</a>
— prashanthr (@prashanthrag) <a href="https://twitter.com/prashanthrag/status/1306862349018513409?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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hey - is it royal challengers bengaluru or bareily ? 
let the anthem be in kannada and a bit of english 
 
just because we have lost all tournaments does not mean you can add hindi , dont think we are govt of karnataka to take hindi imposition !!!😡😡😡😡😡
— Free-Spirit (@murthybs) <a href="https://twitter.com/murthybs/status/1306835468638593024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RCBTweets</a> All good now, happy with this Anthem. Now Create another song/anthem that connects with the Bengaluru in its language: Kannada. It’s not a request, its a demand from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RCBians?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RCBians</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/rcb?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#rcb</a> 
 
Hope you will hear to it.
— Ganesh Paradi (@GaneshParadi) <a href="https://twitter.com/GaneshParadi/status/1306837930644652032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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However, a couple of hours later RCB released another anthem in Kannada language which calmed the social media outrage a bit. Local fans were of the view that theme song should have feature more of Kannada language since Royal Challengers Bangalore represent Karnataka.

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-trivia-top-records-of-thala-ms-dhoni-in-the-tournament-328205" hreflang="en">IPL trivia: Top records of 'Thala' MS Dhoni in the tournament</a>

<h2>RCB's new anthem in Kannada language:</h2>

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RCB Anthem ಕನ್ನಡ Rap ft. <a href="https://twitter.com/devdpd07?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@devdpd07</a> 
 
ಏನೇ ಬರಲಿ... ಎಂತೇ ಇರಲಿ... RCB! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PlayBold?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PlayBold</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2020</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%E0%B2%A8%E0%B2%AE%E0%B3%8D%E0%B2%AERCB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ನಮ್ಮRCB</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeAreChallengers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeAreChallengers</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Dream11IPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Dream11IPL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RCBAnthem?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RCBAnthem</a> <a href="https://t.co/cR9KKfWgvd">pic.twitter.com/cR9KKfWgvd</a>
— Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets/status/1306857992017436673?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Apparently, the song featured only four Kannada words which has been looped thrice while the Hindi words dominate the 106-second long video.

Meanwhile, RCB would be gunning to break their IPL title drought when they take to the field in the 13th edition of the lucrative T20 tournament, which is set to be held behind closed doors in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from September 19.&nbsp;

RCB are among the three teams who are yet to lift the IPL trophy with the others being Delhi Capitals and Kings XI Punjab.&nbsp;

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) on Friday released their official anthem for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020. While there was massive hype ahead of RCB anthem release, outrage was sparked on social media platform Twitter after RCB’s official handle posted the video song featuring the likes of Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, Yuzvendra Chahal among many others.

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) on Friday released their official anthem for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020. While there was massive hype ahead of RCB anthem release, outrage was sparked on social media platform Twitter after RCB’s official handle posted the video song featuring the likes of Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, Yuzvendra Chahal among many others. Fans were left upset over the use of Hindi language in RCB’s anthem as they questioned the franchise over the less usage of Kannada language in the anthem. Even former India cricketer and one of the stalwarts of Karnataka, Dodda Ganesh was left unimpressed with the new RCB anthem. "The Official RCB Anthem is here! And it's dedicated to the best fans in the world. Time to crank up the volume to the maximum, 12th Man Army," RCB tweeted. ALSO READ: 'My Covid Heroes': RCB to pay tribute to frontline warriors in IPL 2020 The Official RCB Anthem is here! And it’s dedicated to the best fans in the world. Time to crank up the volume to the maximum, 12th Man Army. 🗣🔊#PlayBold #IPL2020 #WeAreChallengers #Dream11IPL #RCBAnthem pic.twitter.com/zUBMfSM4U5 — Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) September 18, 2020 × Here's how the fans reacted on RCB's new anthem: No, Shashank. The outrage is a genuine one. Just like how the @ChennaiIPL adds local flavour with Tamil, @RCBTweets’ fans asking for a Kannada song, is justified. After all, it is Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Bengaluru’s official language is Kannada. https://t.co/sF4bVC42Ad — ದೊಡ್ಡ ಗಣೇಶ್ | Dodda Ganesh (@doddaganesha) September 18, 2020 × The entire state is fighting a battle today to avoid Hindi imposition in the state of Karnataka. Comes RCB - Which represents the state of Kannada Nadu having a rich cricketing history releasing it's anthem which involves unnecessary use of Hindi. Embarrassing. — Harish S Itagi (@HarishSItagi) September 18, 2020 × Y yis hindi mor than kannada? #Waar Seaparat kannada hadilva nam kannada fans ge Paapa uella bejaru#Waar 🖖 — Mr. Nags ✌️ (@Thundrous0) September 18, 2020 × With so much of Hindi lyrics in it... I don't feel like supporting it. RCB has fans from all over the country/ world, not Hindi regions only. And majorly from Karnataka, so Kannada would have been used more. — ವಿಕಾಸ್ ಹೆಗಡೆ | Vikas Hegde (@hegde_vikas) September 18, 2020 × This is thousand time better than ur useless anthem... pic.twitter.com/ePSI1j70x3 — Unpaired_electron____* (@RockAlways_777) September 18, 2020 × Disappointed! Where's the local language?? Should have been in English and Kannada... Not Hindi... — Hameed Pasha حمیدپاشا (@whitecrescent) September 18, 2020 × Don't come up with a Kannada song later on to mend our wounds.. These wounds are more than a decade old and we are fed up of your callous attitude year after year.. 2/2 — ಮಲ್ಲಿಕಾರ್ಜುನ್ ಬಿ (Mallikarjun B) (@arjuna04) September 18, 2020 × The @RCBTweets Tale, 1. They don't promote much of local Karnataka talent in their team. 2. They hardly use Kannada. Take the new anthem for example, they have included few Kannada words so that there won't be any outrage from fans. Suggestion: Drop Bengaluru from your banner. — Manjunath S (@NaanuManjunatha) September 18, 2020 × Please remove Hindi or remove Bangalore(bengaluru) from your team's name ,this is hijacking some ones identity #StopHindiImposition — prashanthr (@prashanthrag) September 18, 2020 × hey - is it royal challengers bengaluru or bareily ? let the anthem be in kannada and a bit of english just because we have lost all tournaments does not mean you can add hindi , dont think we are govt of karnataka to take hindi imposition !!!😡😡😡😡😡 — Free-Spirit (@murthybs) September 18, 2020 × @RCBTweets All good now, happy with this Anthem. Now Create another song/anthem that connects with the Bengaluru in its language: Kannada. It’s not a request, its a demand from #RCBians #rcb Hope you will hear to it. — Ganesh Paradi (@GaneshParadi) September 18, 2020 × However, a couple of hours later RCB released another anthem in Kannada language which calmed the social media outrage a bit. Local fans were of the view that theme song should have feature more of Kannada language since Royal Challengers Bangalore represent Karnataka. IN PICS | IPL trivia: Top records of 'Thala' MS Dhoni in the tournament RCB's new anthem in Kannada language: RCB Anthem ಕನ್ನಡ Rap ft. @devdpd07 ಏನೇ ಬರಲಿ... ಎಂತೇ ಇರಲಿ... RCB! #PlayBold #IPL2020 #ನಮ್ಮRCB #WeAreChallengers #Dream11IPL #RCBAnthem pic.twitter.com/cR9KKfWgvd — Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) September 18, 2020 × Apparently, the song featured only four Kannada words which has been looped thrice while the Hindi words dominate the 106-second long video. Meanwhile, RCB would be gunning to break their IPL title drought when they take to the field in the 13th edition of the lucrative T20 tournament, which is set to be held behind closed doors in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from September 19. RCB are among the three teams who are yet to lift the IPL trophy with the others being Delhi Capitals and Kings XI Punjab.

IPL 2020: RCB release new anthem, usage of 'Hindi language' triggers outrage on social media

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