Alexander Zverev pledged to bounce back from his bitterly disappointing loss in the final of the US Open on Sunday to capture a Grand Slam one day.

The 23-year-old German went two sets and a break up in his first Grand Slam final before losing in five sets to Austria's Dominic Thiem.

"I was super close to being a Grand Slam champion. I was a few games away, maybe a few points away," a dejected Zverev told reporters.

"For me what upset me the most is not the third set, it's the fifth set," when he was serving for the championship at 5-3.

"I had a lot of chances in the fifth set and didn't use them," he added.

The second seeded Thiem beat the fifth seed Zverev 2-6, 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 7-6 (8/6) in 4hr 2min.

It was the first time in the US Open's Open era history that a player had recovered from losing the opening two sets to win the title.

It was also the first time the final had been settled by a tie-break.

Zverev said it hurt to lose in the manner he did.

"Obviously being two sets to love and a break up in a Grand Slam final then losing is not easy," he told reporters.

Zverev's debut appearance in the last-two of a tennis major came after he reached the semi-finals of the Australian Open earlier this year.

Zverev said the rawness of the Flushing Meadows defeat meant it was too soon to say whether he had taken any positives from going a step further.

"That question is probably two, three days too early to ask right now," he said.

But the German, who came into the tournament ranked seventh in the world, added that he was sure he would capture a tennis major in the future.

"I'm 23 years old. I don't think it's my last chance. I do believe that I will be a Grand Slam champion at some point," he said.

Alexander Zverev pledged to bounce back from his bitterly disappointing loss in the final of the US Open on Sunday to capture a Grand Slam one day. The 23-year-old German went two sets and a break up in his first Grand Slam final before losing in five sets to Austria's Dominic Thiem.

Alexander Zverev pledged to bounce back from his bitterly disappointing loss in the final of the US Open on Sunday to capture a Grand Slam one day. The 23-year-old German went two sets and a break up in his first Grand Slam final before losing in five sets to Austria's Dominic Thiem. "I was super close to being a Grand Slam champion. I was a few games away, maybe a few points away," a dejected Zverev told reporters. "For me what upset me the most is not the third set, it's the fifth set," when he was serving for the championship at 5-3. "I had a lot of chances in the fifth set and didn't use them," he added. The second seeded Thiem beat the fifth seed Zverev 2-6, 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 7-6 (8/6) in 4hr 2min. It was the first time in the US Open's Open era history that a player had recovered from losing the opening two sets to win the title. It was also the first time the final had been settled by a tie-break. Zverev said it hurt to lose in the manner he did. "Obviously being two sets to love and a break up in a Grand Slam final then losing is not easy," he told reporters. Zverev's debut appearance in the last-two of a tennis major came after he reached the semi-finals of the Australian Open earlier this year. Zverev said the rawness of the Flushing Meadows defeat meant it was too soon to say whether he had taken any positives from going a step further. "That question is probably two, three days too early to ask right now," he said. But the German, who came into the tournament ranked seventh in the world, added that he was sure he would capture a tennis major in the future. "I'm 23 years old. I don't think it's my last chance. I do believe that I will be a Grand Slam champion at some point," he said.

'I will be a Grand Slam champion,' says Zverev after US Open loss

Bangladesh's forthcoming Test series in Sri Lanka was thrown into doubt Monday after its cricket chief rejected the coronavirus restrictions imposed by the hosts.

The three Tests in October-November were meant to mark the two nations' return to international cricket after a months-long lockdown halted professional sports worldwide.

But Bangladesh Cricket Board president Nazmul Hassan said Sri Lanka's conditions, which include 14 days of isolation for players after arrival -- during which practising would be forbidden -- were unacceptable.

"The proposal we received is... not even close to what we agreed upon," Hassan told reporters in Dhaka.

"Under these conditions, it is not possible for us to play the Test championship... This is not even close to what is being followed in some other parts of the world where cricket is being played during this time."

Sri Lanka has a compulsory 14-day quarantine at a government-nominated facility, which includes some hotels, for everyone entering the country.

Hassan said players had been unable to train together&nbsp;after all sporting activities in Bangladesh were suspended in March to stem the spread of the virus.

Training resumed in July, but only one player and a trainer are allowed inside Dhaka's main stadium at a time as a precaution.

"Our players have not been in training for seven months. If we can't train... then it's not possible to play a Test," he added.&nbsp;

Sri Lanka's Sports Minister Namal Rajapaksa told his country's cricket board to work with the health department to try and find a way around the strict quarantine procedures.

"Given the significance of #cricket in the region, I have asked @OfficialSLC to consult the covid task force and reconsider the @BCBtigers matter, Rajapaksa tweeted.

There was no immediate comment from the Sri Lankan board.

Hassan's comments came a week after opening batsman Saif Hasan tested positive for Covid-19 ahead of a planned training camp before their scheduled departure for Sri Lanka.

Bangladesh's forthcoming Test series in Sri Lanka was thrown into doubt Monday after its cricket chief rejected the coronavirus restrictions imposed by the hosts.

Bangladesh's forthcoming Test series in Sri Lanka was thrown into doubt Monday after its cricket chief rejected the coronavirus restrictions imposed by the hosts. The three Tests in October-November were meant to mark the two nations' return to international cricket after a months-long lockdown halted professional sports worldwide. But Bangladesh Cricket Board president Nazmul Hassan said Sri Lanka's conditions, which include 14 days of isolation for players after arrival -- during which practising would be forbidden -- were unacceptable. "The proposal we received is... not even close to what we agreed upon," Hassan told reporters in Dhaka. "Under these conditions, it is not possible for us to play the Test championship... This is not even close to what is being followed in some other parts of the world where cricket is being played during this time." Sri Lanka has a compulsory 14-day quarantine at a government-nominated facility, which includes some hotels, for everyone entering the country. Hassan said players had been unable to train together after all sporting activities in Bangladesh were suspended in March to stem the spread of the virus. Training resumed in July, but only one player and a trainer are allowed inside Dhaka's main stadium at a time as a precaution. "Our players have not been in training for seven months. If we can't train... then it's not possible to play a Test," he added. Sri Lanka's Sports Minister Namal Rajapaksa told his country's cricket board to work with the health department to try and find a way around the strict quarantine procedures. "Given the significance of #cricket in the region, I have asked @OfficialSLC to consult the covid task force and reconsider the @BCBtigers matter, Rajapaksa tweeted. There was no immediate comment from the Sri Lankan board. Hassan's comments came a week after opening batsman Saif Hasan tested positive for Covid-19 ahead of a planned training camp before their scheduled departure for Sri Lanka.

Bangladesh Test series in Sri Lanka in doubt over virus restrictions

Piyush Chawla will be seen playing for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a> and the veteran leg-spinner is excited to team-up with MS Dhoni after many years. In IPL 2020 auctions, CSK shelled out a heavy INR 6.75 crore on Chawla and it would be interesting to see how he fares after spending successful years with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).

CSK have one of the strongest spin attacks among all the franchises and their bowling attack could help them reach the playoffs again. Chawla, who has fallen down the pecking order when it comes to international cricket but continues to be a force in IPL 2020.&nbsp;

“If a captain is believing in you, what more do you want?” Chawla told Firstpost.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/star-studded-commentary-panel-for-ipl-2020-announced-no-place-for-sanjay-manjrekar-heres-full-list-327478" hreflang="en">Star-studded commentary panel for IPL 2020 announced, no place for Sanjay Manjrekar - here's full list</a>

“Definitely (excited about the reunion with Dhoni). Koi bhi leg spinner ko chahiye ke unko accha captain mile (Any leg spinner would want a good captain). I am getting Dhoni bhai, world’s best captain, aur kya chahiye (what more do you want)?”

Chawla picked up 62 wickets off 70 matches for KKR in his six-year stay with the two-time IPL winners. Chawla is of the view that Dhoni gives freedom to the bowler and is always ready to help a player out.&nbsp;

“It’s always the same with Dhoni bhai as well. He gives freedom to the bowler, whatever you feel, go with it,” he said. “He is always helping you out. And when he feels, this kind of thing might happen, then he gives suggestions to the bowler that let’s do this.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-hope-to-carry-domestic-form-into-ipl-2020-says-kings-xi-punjabs-mandeep-singh-327464" hreflang="en">Exclusive: Hope to carry domestic form into IPL 2020, says Kings XI Punjab's Mandeep Singh</a>

Whenever he thought that the bowler would need something in the game, he would advise from behind the wickets. So that is a very big help.”

The Indian Premier League is set to kick-start from September 19 with the final scheduled for November 10 in the UAE. 
&nbsp;

Piyush Chawla will be seen playing for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 and the veteran leg-spinner is excited to team-up with MS Dhoni after many years.

Piyush Chawla will be seen playing for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 and the veteran leg-spinner is excited to team-up with MS Dhoni after many years. In IPL 2020 auctions, CSK shelled out a heavy INR 6.75 crore on Chawla and it would be interesting to see how he fares after spending successful years with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). CSK have one of the strongest spin attacks among all the franchises and their bowling attack could help them reach the playoffs again. Chawla, who has fallen down the pecking order when it comes to international cricket but continues to be a force in IPL 2020. “If a captain is believing in you, what more do you want?” Chawla told Firstpost. ALSO READ: Star-studded commentary panel for IPL 2020 announced, no place for Sanjay Manjrekar - here's full list “Definitely (excited about the reunion with Dhoni). Koi bhi leg spinner ko chahiye ke unko accha captain mile (Any leg spinner would want a good captain). I am getting Dhoni bhai, world’s best captain, aur kya chahiye (what more do you want)?” Chawla picked up 62 wickets off 70 matches for KKR in his six-year stay with the two-time IPL winners. Chawla is of the view that Dhoni gives freedom to the bowler and is always ready to help a player out. “It’s always the same with Dhoni bhai as well. He gives freedom to the bowler, whatever you feel, go with it,” he said. “He is always helping you out. And when he feels, this kind of thing might happen, then he gives suggestions to the bowler that let’s do this. ALSO READ: Exclusive: Hope to carry domestic form into IPL 2020, says Kings XI Punjab's Mandeep Singh Whenever he thought that the bowler would need something in the game, he would advise from behind the wickets. So that is a very big help.” The Indian Premier League is set to kick-start from September 19 with the final scheduled for November 10 in the UAE.

I am getting Dhoni bhai: Piyush Chawla ecstatic to pair up with 'world's best captain' in IPL 2020

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a> is now days away and there is still no clarity on whether the England and Australian players arriving from the United Kingdom to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for the lucrative T20 tournament will have to undergo quarantine before joining their respective teams.&nbsp;

Kings XI Punjab CEO Satish Menon on Monday said that there is no clarity on smooth transfer of players from one bio-secure bubble to another.&nbsp;

While KKR CEO Venky Mysore last week said that England and Australian players involved with the Kolkata outfit will be available from the first match, KXIP boss isn’t too sure about the quarantine phase.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-hope-to-carry-domestic-form-into-ipl-2020-says-kings-xi-punjabs-mandeep-singh-327464" hreflang="en">Exclusive: Hope to carry domestic form into IPL 2020, says Kings XI Punjab's Mandeep Singh</a>

"Nobody has any clarity on that yet. The BCCI is supposed to come back on whether the quarantine can be reduced as they are coming from a bubble to [another] bubble. We don't have any clarity as yet," Menon was quoted as saying.

Kings XI Punjab will have Glenn Maxwell and Chris Jordan, involved in the ongoing series between England and Australia, join the squad after completion of the ODI series on Wednesday. KXIP play the first match against Delhi Capitals in Dubai on September 20.&nbsp;

"From what I hear from the bubble, things are exactly as it was planned. We have been following the SoP that has been laid out by the BCCI and authorities," said the CEO.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/brad-hogg-excludes-dhoni-de-villiers-and-gayle-from-his-ipl-2020-xi-explains-why-327459" hreflang="en">Brad Hogg excludes Dhoni, de Villiers and Gayle from his IPL 2020 XI; explains why</a>

Apart from Abu Dhabi, there is no mandatory quarantine period unless a person tests positive for COVID-19. KXIP will be vying to lift their first-ever IPL trophy and Menon is optimistic that they will break the drought this time.

"We are hopeful of winning the title this year. The format is one where anything can happen on a given day, so we will have to see how it goes." 
&nbsp;

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 is now days away and there is still no clarity on whether the England and Australian players arriving from the United Kingdom to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for the lucrative T20 tournament will have to undergo quarantine before joining their respective teams.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 is now days away and there is still no clarity on whether the England and Australian players arriving from the United Kingdom to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for the lucrative T20 tournament will have to undergo quarantine before joining their respective teams. Kings XI Punjab CEO Satish Menon on Monday said that there is no clarity on smooth transfer of players from one bio-secure bubble to another. While KKR CEO Venky Mysore last week said that England and Australian players involved with the Kolkata outfit will be available from the first match, KXIP boss isn’t too sure about the quarantine phase. ALSO READ: Exclusive: Hope to carry domestic form into IPL 2020, says Kings XI Punjab's Mandeep Singh "Nobody has any clarity on that yet. The BCCI is supposed to come back on whether the quarantine can be reduced as they are coming from a bubble to [another] bubble. We don't have any clarity as yet," Menon was quoted as saying. Kings XI Punjab will have Glenn Maxwell and Chris Jordan, involved in the ongoing series between England and Australia, join the squad after completion of the ODI series on Wednesday. KXIP play the first match against Delhi Capitals in Dubai on September 20. "From what I hear from the bubble, things are exactly as it was planned. We have been following the SoP that has been laid out by the BCCI and authorities," said the CEO. ALSO READ: Brad Hogg excludes Dhoni, de Villiers and Gayle from his IPL 2020 XI; explains why Apart from Abu Dhabi, there is no mandatory quarantine period unless a person tests positive for COVID-19. KXIP will be vying to lift their first-ever IPL trophy and Menon is optimistic that they will break the drought this time. "We are hopeful of winning the title this year. The format is one where anything can happen on a given day, so we will have to see how it goes."

No clarity on England, Australia players' quarantine period: KXIP CEO

A spinner who relishes challenges, Australia's Adam Zampa wants to forge a partnership with India's Yuzvendra Chahal during the upcoming IPL, where he hopes to master the art of death bowling while playing for the Royal Challengers Bangalore.

Zampa and Chahal are both wrist spinners but the Australian is eager to pick the brain of his IPL teammate when it comes to death bowling.

Zampa is keen to learn the skill since he was part of skipper Aaron Finch's unsuccessful death bowling plan in the T20 series against England recently.

"I really enjoy bowling at the death, I love those pressure overs especially when the game is on the line," said Zampa, who played two seasons for the now-defunct IPL franchise Rising Pune Supergiants.

"They needed 18 to win off the last two overs (in the second T20) and I told Finchy I should bowl it. It obviously didn't go to plan but I'm not going to change my attitude after one game.

"I've got a really good opportunity in the IPL bowling with Chahal at RCB and I might get the opportunity to bowl those overs just because of the way the team is structured," he was quoted as saying by cricket.Com.Au website.

He might not have been successful in the recent matches, but Zampa enjoyed considerable success bowling at death in the Big Bash League for Melbourne Stars.

But his real challenge will be to find a place in the RCB playing eleven. He would face competition from Washington Sundar and Pawan Negi, besides England all-rounder Moeen Ali.

But he seems unpeturbed.

"I really enjoy bowling with another leg-spinner so it's going to be a really good opportunity to bowl with Chahal," said Zampa.

"We have similar traits but can learn a little bit from each other as well."

A spinner who relishes challenges, Australia's Adam Zampa wants to forge a partnership with India's Yuzvendra Chahal during the upcoming IPL, where he hopes to master the art of death bowling while playing for the Royal Challengers Bangalore.

A spinner who relishes challenges, Australia's Adam Zampa wants to forge a partnership with India's Yuzvendra Chahal during the upcoming IPL, where he hopes to master the art of death bowling while playing for the Royal Challengers Bangalore. Zampa and Chahal are both wrist spinners but the Australian is eager to pick the brain of his IPL teammate when it comes to death bowling. Zampa is keen to learn the skill since he was part of skipper Aaron Finch's unsuccessful death bowling plan in the T20 series against England recently. "I really enjoy bowling at the death, I love those pressure overs especially when the game is on the line," said Zampa, who played two seasons for the now-defunct IPL franchise Rising Pune Supergiants. "They needed 18 to win off the last two overs (in the second T20) and I told Finchy I should bowl it. It obviously didn't go to plan but I'm not going to change my attitude after one game. "I've got a really good opportunity in the IPL bowling with Chahal at RCB and I might get the opportunity to bowl those overs just because of the way the team is structured," he was quoted as saying by cricket.Com.Au website. He might not have been successful in the recent matches, but Zampa enjoyed considerable success bowling at death in the Big Bash League for Melbourne Stars. But his real challenge will be to find a place in the RCB playing eleven. He would face competition from Washington Sundar and Pawan Negi, besides England all-rounder Moeen Ali. But he seems unpeturbed. "I really enjoy bowling with another leg-spinner so it's going to be a really good opportunity to bowl with Chahal," said Zampa. "We have similar traits but can learn a little bit from each other as well."

Adam Zampa wants to master death bowling skill during IPL 2020

The list for the commentary panel has been announced for the impending Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, set to start from September 19 in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The likes of Sunil Gavaskar, Ian Bishop, Harsha Bhogle are set to return in the commentary box for the lucrative T20 tournament but a big name will be missing from the action as Sanjay Manjrekar hasn’t been recalled for commentary duties for IPL 2020.&nbsp;

Host broadcasters Star Sports has named a separate panel for Hindi and other languages but Manjrekar’s name was missing from every list. The star-studded commentary panel for IPL 2020 also includes the likes of Mark Nicholas, JP Duminy, Lisa Sthalekar and Anjum Chopra.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-hope-to-carry-domestic-form-into-ipl-2020-says-kings-xi-punjabs-mandeep-singh-327464">Exclusive: Hope to carry domestic form into IPL 2020 - Mandeep Singh</a>

Whereas Brett Lee, Dean Jones, Brain Lara, Graeme Swann and Scott Styris will feature in the Dugout show for IPL 2020.&nbsp; 
Former Team India chief selectors Kris Srikkanth and MSK Prasad will be seen commentating in Tamil and Telugu languages respectively. Sanjay Bangar is part of the Hindi commentary list.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/brad-hogg-excludes-dhoni-de-villiers-and-gayle-from-his-ipl-2020-xi-explains-why-327459" hreflang="en">Hogg excludes Dhoni, de Villiers and Gayle from his IPL 2020 XI; explains why</a>

Former India chief selectors Kris Srikkanth and MSK Prasad will be commentating in Tamil and Telugu, respectively. Former India assistant coach Sanjay Bangar is part of the Hindi commentary team.

English commentary panel for IPL 2020: English commentators for IPL 2020:&nbsp;Ian Bishop, Simon Doull, Sangakkara, Harsha Bhogle, Sunil Gavaskar, Rohan Gavaskar, Deep Dasgupta, L Sivaramakrishnan, Anjum Chopra, Murali Kartik, Mark Nicholas, Pietersen, Duminy, Lisa Sthalaker, Darren Ganga, Pommie Mbangwa, Micheal Slater,Danny Morrison

Commentators for Star Sports Select dugout for IPL 2020: Dean Jones, Scott Styris, Brain Lara, Brett Lee Graeme Swann

Telugu commentators for IPL 2020:&nbsp;M Anand Sri Krishna, Neha Matcha, Kaushik Nallan Chakravarthy, Ashish Reddy Ammana, Venkatapathi Raju, Venugopalarao Yalaka, MSK Prasad, and Kalyan Krishna Doddapaneni.

Tamil commentators for IPL 2020: Muthuraman R, Radhakrishnan Sreenivasan, Bhavna Balakrishnan, K V Sathyanarayanan, RJ Balaji, Abhinav Mukund, S Ramesh, S Badrinath, Hemang Badani, and Krishnamachari Srikkanth. 
&nbsp;

The list for the commentary panel has been announced for the impending Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, set to start from September 19 in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The list for the commentary panel has been announced for the impending Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, set to start from September 19 in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The likes of Sunil Gavaskar, Ian Bishop, Harsha Bhogle are set to return in the commentary box for the lucrative T20 tournament but a big name will be missing from the action as Sanjay Manjrekar hasn’t been recalled for commentary duties for IPL 2020. Host broadcasters Star Sports has named a separate panel for Hindi and other languages but Manjrekar’s name was missing from every list. The star-studded commentary panel for IPL 2020 also includes the likes of Mark Nicholas, JP Duminy, Lisa Sthalekar and Anjum Chopra. ALSO READ: Exclusive: Hope to carry domestic form into IPL 2020 - Mandeep Singh Whereas Brett Lee, Dean Jones, Brain Lara, Graeme Swann and Scott Styris will feature in the Dugout show for IPL 2020. Former Team India chief selectors Kris Srikkanth and MSK Prasad will be seen commentating in Tamil and Telugu languages respectively. Sanjay Bangar is part of the Hindi commentary list. ALSO READ: Hogg excludes Dhoni, de Villiers and Gayle from his IPL 2020 XI; explains why Former India chief selectors Kris Srikkanth and MSK Prasad will be commentating in Tamil and Telugu, respectively. Former India assistant coach Sanjay Bangar is part of the Hindi commentary team. English commentary panel for IPL 2020: English commentators for IPL 2020: Ian Bishop, Simon Doull, Sangakkara, Harsha Bhogle, Sunil Gavaskar, Rohan Gavaskar, Deep Dasgupta, L Sivaramakrishnan, Anjum Chopra, Murali Kartik, Mark Nicholas, Pietersen, Duminy, Lisa Sthalaker, Darren Ganga, Pommie Mbangwa, Micheal Slater,Danny Morrison Commentators for Star Sports Select dugout for IPL 2020: Dean Jones, Scott Styris, Brain Lara, Brett Lee Graeme Swann Telugu commentators for IPL 2020: M Anand Sri Krishna, Neha Matcha, Kaushik Nallan Chakravarthy, Ashish Reddy Ammana, Venkatapathi Raju, Venugopalarao Yalaka, MSK Prasad, and Kalyan Krishna Doddapaneni. Tamil commentators for IPL 2020: Muthuraman R, Radhakrishnan Sreenivasan, Bhavna Balakrishnan, K V Sathyanarayanan, RJ Balaji, Abhinav Mukund, S Ramesh, S Badrinath, Hemang Badani, and Krishnamachari Srikkanth.

Star-studded commentary panel for IPL 2020 announced, no place for Sanjay Manjrekar - here's full list

Kings XI Punjab did some shrewd business during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 auction and will look to end the title drought under the captaincy of KL Rahul and guidance of head coach Anil Kumble. While the overseas contingent of KXIP looks terrific, the Punjab outfit also have some terrific talent when it comes to domestic players.&nbsp;

Captain of Punjab in Ranji Trophy, Mandeep Singh will be hoping to make a solid mark in the 13th edition of IPL, which is set to commence from September 19 in the United Arab Emirates.&nbsp;Mandeep is coming on the back of a tremendous domestic campaign with 696 runs in just 8 matches at a staggering average of 69.60 including the highest score of 204 not-out in Ranji Trophy 2019-20; and 270 runs in 11 matches at an average of 38.57 and strike-rate of 145.94 in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.

The 28-year-old has the ability to play as a floater for Kings XI Punjab in IPL 2020 and help the team win their first-ever IPL trophy.&nbsp;

Mandeep Singh, who is also looking to break into the Indian team again, in an exclusive interview with WION’s Subhayan Chakraborty talked about IPL 2020, Anil Kumble-led Kings XI Punjab coaching staff, KL Rahul, his stint with Royal Challengers Bangalore, Virat Kohli, his ambitions to play Test cricket and much more.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-salutes-kings-xi-punjab-and-ipl-dream-with-sheldon-cottrell-319471" hreflang="en">Exclusive - Salutes, Kings XI Punjab and IPL dream with Sheldon Cottrell</a>

Subhayan Chakraborty: You are coming on the back of a great domestic season; how much are you looking forward to making a mark in this edition of IPL?

Mandeep Singh: I am really looking forward to it (IPL). In domestic cricket, the last couple of seasons have been good for me, especially in the last season. We played in some tough wickets and scoring in almost every match was really satisfying. I was thinking of playing for Rest of India and India A but that didn’t happen and honestly, it’s not under my control. Now I have only one focus, to do well in whichever tournament I am playing and score runs. Hopefully, I can get back in the scheme of things. IPL is a big tournament and if you do well in IPL, you do get recognized. So very much looking forward to it.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CE8tU3dBW_Q/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">The iconic Sharjah cricket stadium✨ @kxipofficial #ipl2020</a>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mandeeps12/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Mandeep Singh</a> (@mandeeps12) on <time datetime="2020-09-10T08:01:33+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Sep 10, 2020 at 1:01am PDT</time>
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Subhayan: How are you spending your time inside the bubble? Any activities you guys are doing to remain mentally fresh?

Mandeep: First six days were a bit different. We were confined to our rooms and didn’t meet each other. Everyone has their own gadgets. I am not a web-series guy but I did watch a few during quarantine. Now, we have a space, we have our own swimming pools, beach, we have a big team room where we have some games and can spend time with each other. A lot of time goes into practice so we are getting used to the routine. We have good chemistry in the team and I am really enjoying the vibe.&nbsp;

<img alt="Mandeep Singh" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8663fffc-e133-4392-97bc-977e283e560d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/EASnnES0JA.jpg" />

Subhayan: Anil Kumble, Wasim Jaffer and Jonty Rhodes - how has been the experience so far training under them? Have you had a word with Wasim Jaffer in terms of your batting?

Mandeep: I am really enjoying the time here. We really have easy-going team and that goes with the coaching group as well. No one is really strict and there’s freedom to express yourself. Anil sir (Anil Kumble) told me in the start to not take much pressure and just try and get into the rhythm and acclimatize to the weather. So we slowly started to push after first six-seven days – the training sessions started to get longer, fielding sessions became intense.

Obviously, with Jonty Rhodes, it’s completely different. He improves a player with smaller details which we usually miss or didn’t know before. He’s 51 but his energy is terrific and the way he is conducting our fielding sessions, hopefully we will be the best team on the field. Wasim bhai (Wasim Jaffer) doesn’t speak much about technicalities unless he feels something is going really wrong. I have told him to interrupt me if he sees something wrong in my technique as my ultimate dream is to play Test cricket for India.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-ipl-2020-excited-to-play-for-kings-xi-punjab-and-under-kl-rahul-ishan-porel-320231" hreflang="en">Exclusive - Excited to play for Kings XI Punjab and under KL Rahul: Ishan Porel</a>

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Did you ‘catch’ that? 😮<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SaddaPunjab?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SaddaPunjab</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Dream11IPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Dream11IPL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/JontyRhodes8?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JontyRhodes8</a> <a href="https://t.co/VmrCnQtgBZ">pic.twitter.com/VmrCnQtgBZ</a>
— Kings XI Punjab (@lionsdenkxip) <a href="https://twitter.com/lionsdenkxip/status/1305348042522943488?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 14, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Subhayan: You are seen as someone who can bat at any given position, be it top order or lower-middle order (finisher), but what is your preferred position to bat especially in the T20 format?

Mandeep: My preferred position has always been in the top-order. But teams have tried me in the lower-middle order wherein I played a couple of good knocks. Ultimately, it depends on your preparation. I feel a good player can play in any given position. In my opinion, if there is clarity on the role and preparation is good then there shouldn’t be any trouble be it in the top order or lower down the order.

<img alt="Mandeep Singh" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="75c7e82f-e4ca-4a3d-8abf-62a676c17eb2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/RNW9g9b6oz.jpg" />

Subhayan: You and KL Rahul know each other for a long time now. How do you see Rahul as a captain and can you share some of his traits as skipper?

Mandeep: KL Rahul will be a great captain for sure. I remember our time in National Cricket Academy (NCA), he used to be the captain of one team with me leading the other side. I was a bit aggressive, obviously coming from Punjab, but Rahul was really calm even then. The way he has improved and matured his game have incredible. And I am sure that calmness will reflect in our journey in the IPL. Even now, he doesn’t speak much but he has been talking about roles and situations with almost everyone.&nbsp;

Even the credit behind our great team atmosphere has to go to Rahul and Anil sir. They all are relaxed and I feel a team’s best potential can only come out strongly if everyone is relaxed and calm about the matches.&nbsp;

Subhayan: How has your stint with RCB helped you in developing your game?

Mandeep: I was really lucky to have played for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Obviously, I came to know about the role of top-class fitness during my stint with RCB. When I saw Virat Kohli train like he does, with proper intensity, I was like if the world’s no. one batsman can train like this then why can’t I. The way Team India players are looking after their body and fitness, the credit has to go to Virat for the way he transformed the culture. He is a leader and if a leader is like him then other automatically follow. And I have learned a lot about technicalities of batting from AB de Villiers. If you watch players like Virat and AB in the nets everyday, you learn a lot of things. But it was my fitness which improved leaps and bounds during my stay with RCB.

<img alt="Mandeep Singh" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e06f3697-1fbf-41d0-8395-528936c9c14e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/eu4xq1sVL4.jpg" />

Subhayan: Do you feel a great IPL can bring your name back into the contention for the Indian team. What are your ambitions when it comes to international cricket?

Mandeep: Test cricket will obviously come after performances in domestic cricket. If you score runs in IPL, Ranji Trophy, Syed Mushtaq Ali or whatever tournament you are playing, if you are consistent then you will be back in the scheme of things. I had a good domestic campaign and I firmly feel if I do well in IPL this season and next season then I will be again looked at. But honestly, I don’t think much about selection and my complete focus is on to win matches for Kings XI Punjab now.&nbsp;

Subhayan: But don’t you feel this IPL can be on the low-scoring side given there are only three stadiums and under extreme heat…

Mandeep: Well, we haven’t seen any of the pitches so far. We are training in the ICC Academy. But in my opinion, we might see some big scores early in the tournament but gradually, as the pitches go slower, we will see more low-scoring matches. The issue here in UAE is, it is extremely hot and apart from Sharjah, the other two stadiums are pretty big, so players will also need optimum fitness to get past the entire tournament. If wickets are slow and grounds are bigger then we might see low-scoring matches, perhaps in the second half of the tournament.&nbsp;

<img alt="Mandeep Singh" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bd778353-47ba-4a1c-bdfe-4c79cc9f72e1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/oSGLu4Ra77.jpg" />

&nbsp;

Subhayan: Do you think injuries can be a concern in this IPL?

Mandeep: Injuries can play a major role in this edition. I guess every team is suffering from minute niggles as players are coming after five, six months and it is hot here as well. But definitely, injuries can play a huge role because match intensity is on a different level. But yes, as we are going to take the field after so long, injury will be a factor on the back of every team’s mind.

Subhayan: What will be your message to the fans?

Mandeep: Keep supporting Kings XI Punjab like you always do. I feel we have a really balanced squad and on paper, it is looking really good. Hopefully, we will be able to produce that quality of cricket in matches and help Punjab win the IPL trophy. 
&nbsp;

Kings XI Punjab did some shrewd business during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 auction and will look to end the title drought under the captaincy of KL Rahul and guidance of head coach Anil Kumble.

Kings XI Punjab did some shrewd business during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 auction and will look to end the title drought under the captaincy of KL Rahul and guidance of head coach Anil Kumble. While the overseas contingent of KXIP looks terrific, the Punjab outfit also have some terrific talent when it comes to domestic players. Captain of Punjab in Ranji Trophy, Mandeep Singh will be hoping to make a solid mark in the 13th edition of IPL, which is set to commence from September 19 in the United Arab Emirates. Mandeep is coming on the back of a tremendous domestic campaign with 696 runs in just 8 matches at a staggering average of 69.60 including the highest score of 204 not-out in Ranji Trophy 2019-20; and 270 runs in 11 matches at an average of 38.57 and strike-rate of 145.94 in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. The 28-year-old has the ability to play as a floater for Kings XI Punjab in IPL 2020 and help the team win their first-ever IPL trophy. Mandeep Singh, who is also looking to break into the Indian team again, in an exclusive interview with WION’s Subhayan Chakraborty talked about IPL 2020, Anil Kumble-led Kings XI Punjab coaching staff, KL Rahul, his stint with Royal Challengers Bangalore, Virat Kohli, his ambitions to play Test cricket and much more. ALSO READ: Exclusive - Salutes, Kings XI Punjab and IPL dream with Sheldon Cottrell Subhayan Chakraborty: You are coming on the back of a great domestic season; how much are you looking forward to making a mark in this edition of IPL? Mandeep Singh: I am really looking forward to it (IPL). In domestic cricket, the last couple of seasons have been good for me, especially in the last season. We played in some tough wickets and scoring in almost every match was really satisfying. I was thinking of playing for Rest of India and India A but that didn’t happen and honestly, it’s not under my control. Now I have only one focus, to do well in whichever tournament I am playing and score runs. Hopefully, I can get back in the scheme of things. IPL is a big tournament and if you do well in IPL, you do get recognized. So very much looking forward to it. View this post on Instagram The iconic Sharjah cricket stadium✨ @kxipofficial #ipl2020 A post shared by Mandeep Singh (@mandeeps12) on Sep 10, 2020 at 1:01am PDT × Subhayan: How are you spending your time inside the bubble? Any activities you guys are doing to remain mentally fresh? Mandeep: First six days were a bit different. We were confined to our rooms and didn’t meet each other. Everyone has their own gadgets. I am not a web-series guy but I did watch a few during quarantine. Now, we have a space, we have our own swimming pools, beach, we have a big team room where we have some games and can spend time with each other. A lot of time goes into practice so we are getting used to the routine. We have good chemistry in the team and I am really enjoying the vibe. Subhayan: Anil Kumble, Wasim Jaffer and Jonty Rhodes - how has been the experience so far training under them? Have you had a word with Wasim Jaffer in terms of your batting? Mandeep: I am really enjoying the time here. We really have easy-going team and that goes with the coaching group as well. No one is really strict and there’s freedom to express yourself. Anil sir (Anil Kumble) told me in the start to not take much pressure and just try and get into the rhythm and acclimatize to the weather. So we slowly started to push after first six-seven days – the training sessions started to get longer, fielding sessions became intense. Obviously, with Jonty Rhodes, it’s completely different. He improves a player with smaller details which we usually miss or didn’t know before. He’s 51 but his energy is terrific and the way he is conducting our fielding sessions, hopefully we will be the best team on the field. Wasim bhai (Wasim Jaffer) doesn’t speak much about technicalities unless he feels something is going really wrong. I have told him to interrupt me if he sees something wrong in my technique as my ultimate dream is to play Test cricket for India. ALSO READ: Exclusive - Excited to play for Kings XI Punjab and under KL Rahul: Ishan Porel Did you ‘catch’ that? 😮#SaddaPunjab #Dream11IPL @JontyRhodes8 pic.twitter.com/VmrCnQtgBZ — Kings XI Punjab (@lionsdenkxip) September 14, 2020 × Subhayan: You are seen as someone who can bat at any given position, be it top order or lower-middle order (finisher), but what is your preferred position to bat especially in the T20 format? Mandeep: My preferred position has always been in the top-order. But teams have tried me in the lower-middle order wherein I played a couple of good knocks. Ultimately, it depends on your preparation. I feel a good player can play in any given position. In my opinion, if there is clarity on the role and preparation is good then there shouldn’t be any trouble be it in the top order or lower down the order. Subhayan: You and KL Rahul know each other for a long time now. How do you see Rahul as a captain and can you share some of his traits as skipper? Mandeep: KL Rahul will be a great captain for sure. I remember our time in National Cricket Academy (NCA), he used to be the captain of one team with me leading the other side. I was a bit aggressive, obviously coming from Punjab, but Rahul was really calm even then. The way he has improved and matured his game have incredible. And I am sure that calmness will reflect in our journey in the IPL. Even now, he doesn’t speak much but he has been talking about roles and situations with almost everyone. Even the credit behind our great team atmosphere has to go to Rahul and Anil sir. They all are relaxed and I feel a team’s best potential can only come out strongly if everyone is relaxed and calm about the matches. Subhayan: How has your stint with RCB helped you in developing your game? Mandeep: I was really lucky to have played for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Obviously, I came to know about the role of top-class fitness during my stint with RCB. When I saw Virat Kohli train like he does, with proper intensity, I was like if the world’s no. one batsman can train like this then why can’t I. The way Team India players are looking after their body and fitness, the credit has to go to Virat for the way he transformed the culture. He is a leader and if a leader is like him then other automatically follow. And I have learned a lot about technicalities of batting from AB de Villiers. If you watch players like Virat and AB in the nets everyday, you learn a lot of things. But it was my fitness which improved leaps and bounds during my stay with RCB. Subhayan: Do you feel a great IPL can bring your name back into the contention for the Indian team. What are your ambitions when it comes to international cricket? Mandeep: Test cricket will obviously come after performances in domestic cricket. If you score runs in IPL, Ranji Trophy, Syed Mushtaq Ali or whatever tournament you are playing, if you are consistent then you will be back in the scheme of things. I had a good domestic campaign and I firmly feel if I do well in IPL this season and next season then I will be again looked at. But honestly, I don’t think much about selection and my complete focus is on to win matches for Kings XI Punjab now. Subhayan: But don’t you feel this IPL can be on the low-scoring side given there are only three stadiums and under extreme heat… Mandeep: Well, we haven’t seen any of the pitches so far. We are training in the ICC Academy. But in my opinion, we might see some big scores early in the tournament but gradually, as the pitches go slower, we will see more low-scoring matches. The issue here in UAE is, it is extremely hot and apart from Sharjah, the other two stadiums are pretty big, so players will also need optimum fitness to get past the entire tournament. If wickets are slow and grounds are bigger then we might see low-scoring matches, perhaps in the second half of the tournament. Subhayan: Do you think injuries can be a concern in this IPL? Mandeep: Injuries can play a major role in this edition. I guess every team is suffering from minute niggles as players are coming after five, six months and it is hot here as well. But definitely, injuries can play a huge role because match intensity is on a different level. But yes, as we are going to take the field after so long, injury will be a factor on the back of every team’s mind. Subhayan: What will be your message to the fans? Mandeep: Keep supporting Kings XI Punjab like you always do. I feel we have a really balanced squad and on paper, it is looking really good. Hopefully, we will be able to produce that quality of cricket in matches and help Punjab win the IPL trophy.

Exclusive: Hope to carry domestic form into IPL 2020, says Kings XI Punjab's Mandeep Singh

From 2 sets down to Grand Slam winner: Dominic Thiem's insane comeback in US Open 2020 men's final

United Arab Emirates (UAE) players Amir Hayat and Ashfaq Ahmed have been charged with five counts of breaching cricket’s anti-corruption rules and provisionally suspended with immediate effect.

The Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) had suspended Ashfaq during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Qualifier in October last year but no formal charges had been laid so far.

Both Amir and Ashfaq have been charged with the following breaches of the ICC Anti-Corruption Code:

Article 2.1.3&nbsp;– Seeking, accepting, offering or agreeing to accept any bribe or other Reward to: (a) fix or to contrive in any way or otherwise to influence improperly the result, progress, conduct or any other aspect of any International Match; or (b) ensure for Betting or other corrupt purposes the occurrence of a particular incident in an International Match.

Article 2.4.2&nbsp;– failing to disclose to the ACU (without unnecessary delay) the receipt of any gift, payment, hospitality or other benefit, (a) that the Participant knew or should have known was given to him/her to procure (directly or indirectly) any breach of the Anti-Corruption Code, or (b) that was made or given in circumstances that could bring the Participant or the sport of cricket into disrepute.

Article 2.4.3&nbsp;– failing to disclose to the ACU (without unnecessary delay) all gifts (whether monetary or otherwise), hospitality and/or other non-contractual benefits offered to a Participant that have a value of US$750 or more, whether or not the circumstances set out in Article 2.4.2 are present, save that there shall be no obligation to disclose any (i) personal gifts, hospitality and/or other non-contractual benefits offered by or on behalf of any close friend or relative of the Participant, (ii) any food or beverage gifts or (iii) cricket hospitality gifts in connection with Matches the Participant is participating in.

Article 2.4.4&nbsp;– failing to disclose to the ACU (without unnecessary delay) full details of any approaches or invitations received by the Participant to engage in Corrupt Conduct under the Anti-Corruption Code.

Article 2.4.5&nbsp;– failing to disclose to the ACU full details of any facts or matters that came to his attention that may evidence Corrupt Conduct under the Code by another Participant.

The players have 14 days from 13 September to respond to the charges. The ICC will not make any further comment in respect of these charges at this stage.

United Arab Emirates (UAE) players Amir Hayat and Ashfaq Ahmed have been charged with five counts of breaching cricket’s anti-corruption rules and provisionally suspended with immediate effect.

United Arab Emirates (UAE) players Amir Hayat and Ashfaq Ahmed have been charged with five counts of breaching cricket’s anti-corruption rules and provisionally suspended with immediate effect. The Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) had suspended Ashfaq during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Qualifier in October last year but no formal charges had been laid so far. Both Amir and Ashfaq have been charged with the following breaches of the ICC Anti-Corruption Code: Article 2.1.3 – Seeking, accepting, offering or agreeing to accept any bribe or other Reward to: (a) fix or to contrive in any way or otherwise to influence improperly the result, progress, conduct or any other aspect of any International Match; or (b) ensure for Betting or other corrupt purposes the occurrence of a particular incident in an International Match. Article 2.4.2 – failing to disclose to the ACU (without unnecessary delay) the receipt of any gift, payment, hospitality or other benefit, (a) that the Participant knew or should have known was given to him/her to procure (directly or indirectly) any breach of the Anti-Corruption Code, or (b) that was made or given in circumstances that could bring the Participant or the sport of cricket into disrepute. Article 2.4.3 – failing to disclose to the ACU (without unnecessary delay) all gifts (whether monetary or otherwise), hospitality and/or other non-contractual benefits offered to a Participant that have a value of US$750 or more, whether or not the circumstances set out in Article 2.4.2 are present, save that there shall be no obligation to disclose any (i) personal gifts, hospitality and/or other non-contractual benefits offered by or on behalf of any close friend or relative of the Participant, (ii) any food or beverage gifts or (iii) cricket hospitality gifts in connection with Matches the Participant is participating in. Article 2.4.4 – failing to disclose to the ACU (without unnecessary delay) full details of any approaches or invitations received by the Participant to engage in Corrupt Conduct under the Anti-Corruption Code. Article 2.4.5 – failing to disclose to the ACU full details of any facts or matters that came to his attention that may evidence Corrupt Conduct under the Code by another Participant. The players have 14 days from 13 September to respond to the charges. The ICC will not make any further comment in respect of these charges at this stage.

Two UAE players Amir Hayat, Ashfaq Ahmed charged under ICC anti-corruption code

With as many as five players sent off following a mass brawl in Ligue 1 match between arch-rivals Paris Saint-Germain and Olymique Marseille, Brazilian megastar Neymar claimed that he had been victim of racism on Sunday.&nbsp;

Neymar, who was one of the players to be sent off, took to social media platform Twitter to post a series of furious tweets as the PSG forward appeared to accuse Alvaro Gonzales of calling him a “monkey” after he was shown a red card in injury time for slapping Marseille defender on the back of the head.&nbsp;

"Look at the racism. That's why I hit him," Neymar, who was returning from coronavirus quarantine, said as he left the pitch. Gonzalez went on to deny making a racist comment.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-will-be-a-grand-slam-champion-says-zverev-after-us-open-loss-327374" hreflang="en">'I will be a Grand Slam champion,' says Zverev after US Open loss</a>

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Neymar was talking about racism ‼️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PSGOM?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PSGOM</a> 
 
<a href="https://t.co/AJnzuoSB9F">pic.twitter.com/AJnzuoSB9F</a>
— SnapGoal (@SnapGoal) <a href="https://twitter.com/SnapGoal/status/1305254831079251972?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"The only regret I have is not hitting this idiot in the face," Neymar, the world's most expensive player, tweeted after the game.

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Único arrependimento que tenho é por não ter dado na cara desse babaca
— Neymar Jr (@neymarjr) <a href="https://twitter.com/neymarjr/status/1305262756459876358?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Neymar was dismissed by the referee after a VAR check whereas his teammates Layvin Kurzawa and Leando Pareder were also sent off. For Marseille, Dario Benedetto and defender Jorfan Amavi were given the marching orders by the referee.

Neymar, on Twitter, questioned the referees that if they can see his aggression then why can’t they pull up the guy who called him monkey.&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/pride-pain-and-a-schumacher-ferrari-celebrate-1000th-grand-prix-race-327266" hreflang="en">Pride, pain and a Schumacher: Ferrari celebrate 1,000th Grand Prix race</a>

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We stand by you Neymar ❤️ <a href="https://t.co/FWdDB9dAEh">pic.twitter.com/FWdDB9dAEh</a>
— Sakanelli🐐|Free Aouar💉 (@AFC_Sakanelli) <a href="https://twitter.com/AFC_Sakanelli/status/1305282918806294528?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

"It's easy for VAR to show my 'aggression'. 'Now I'd like to them to show the image of the racist who called me a 'MONKEY SON OF A B***H. I'd really like that!" Neymar tweeted.

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VAR pegar a minha “agressão” é mole ... agora eu quero ver pegar a imagem do racista me chamando de “MONO HIJO DE PUTA” (macaco filha da puta)... isso eu quero ver! 
E aí? CARRETILHA vc me pune.. CASCUDO sou expulso... e eles? E aí ?
— Neymar Jr (@neymarjr) <a href="https://twitter.com/neymarjr/status/1305275338390466561?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ancelotti-confident-new-look-everton-can-shake-up-top-six-after-spurs-win-327379" hreflang="en">Ancelotti confident new-look Everton can shake up top six after Spurs win</a>

PSG coach Thomas Tuchel said that Neymar told him about the racist insult but added that he didn’t hear anything on the pitch. While Marseille coach Andre-Villas Boas said there’s no place for racism and they will have another look at the incident.&nbsp;

Neymar "told me it was a racist insult, but I didn't hear anything on the pitch", PSG coach Thomas Tuchel said.

"There is no place for racism in football but I don't think that was the case," Marseille coach Andre Villas-Boas told Telefoot. "We'll have to look at it."

According to Telefoot, Gonzalez responded “what racism?” when asked about the incident.&nbsp;

"There's no place for racism," the Spaniard wrote, adding: "Sometimes you have to learn to lose and take it on the field."

PSG lost the match by 1-0 after a goal from Florian Thauvin in the 31st minute of the match.

With as many as five players sent off following a mass brawl in Ligue 1 match between arch-rivals Paris Saint-Germain and Olymique Marseille, Brazilian megastar Neymar claimed that he had been victim of racism on Sunday.

With as many as five players sent off following a mass brawl in Ligue 1 match between arch-rivals Paris Saint-Germain and Olymique Marseille, Brazilian megastar Neymar claimed that he had been victim of racism on Sunday. Neymar, who was one of the players to be sent off, took to social media platform Twitter to post a series of furious tweets as the PSG forward appeared to accuse Alvaro Gonzales of calling him a “monkey” after he was shown a red card in injury time for slapping Marseille defender on the back of the head. "Look at the racism. That's why I hit him," Neymar, who was returning from coronavirus quarantine, said as he left the pitch. Gonzalez went on to deny making a racist comment. ALSO READ: 'I will be a Grand Slam champion,' says Zverev after US Open loss Neymar was talking about racism ‼️#PSGOM pic.twitter.com/AJnzuoSB9F — SnapGoal (@SnapGoal) September 13, 2020 × "The only regret I have is not hitting this idiot in the face," Neymar, the world's most expensive player, tweeted after the game. Único arrependimento que tenho é por não ter dado na cara desse babaca — Neymar Jr (@neymarjr) September 13, 2020 × Neymar was dismissed by the referee after a VAR check whereas his teammates Layvin Kurzawa and Leando Pareder were also sent off. For Marseille, Dario Benedetto and defender Jorfan Amavi were given the marching orders by the referee. Neymar, on Twitter, questioned the referees that if they can see his aggression then why can’t they pull up the guy who called him monkey. IN PICS | Pride, pain and a Schumacher: Ferrari celebrate 1,000th Grand Prix race We stand by you Neymar ❤️ pic.twitter.com/FWdDB9dAEh — Sakanelli🐐|Free Aouar💉 (@AFC_Sakanelli) September 13, 2020 × "It's easy for VAR to show my 'aggression'. 'Now I'd like to them to show the image of the racist who called me a 'MONKEY SON OF A B***H. I'd really like that!" Neymar tweeted. VAR pegar a minha “agressão” é mole ... agora eu quero ver pegar a imagem do racista me chamando de “MONO HIJO DE PUTA” (macaco filha da puta)... isso eu quero ver! E aí? CARRETILHA vc me pune.. CASCUDO sou expulso... e eles? E aí ? — Neymar Jr (@neymarjr) September 13, 2020 × ALSO READ: Ancelotti confident new-look Everton can shake up top six after Spurs win PSG coach Thomas Tuchel said that Neymar told him about the racist insult but added that he didn’t hear anything on the pitch. While Marseille coach Andre-Villas Boas said there’s no place for racism and they will have another look at the incident. Neymar "told me it was a racist insult, but I didn't hear anything on the pitch", PSG coach Thomas Tuchel said. "There is no place for racism in football but I don't think that was the case," Marseille coach Andre Villas-Boas told Telefoot. "We'll have to look at it." According to Telefoot, Gonzalez responded “what racism?” when asked about the incident. "There's no place for racism," the Spaniard wrote, adding: "Sometimes you have to learn to lose and take it on the field." PSG lost the match by 1-0 after a goal from Florian Thauvin in the 31st minute of the match.

'The only regret I have...' - Neymar alleges racism after Alvaro Gonzalez bust-up in PSG vs Marseille

Mate Pavic of Croatia and Brazilian veteran Bruno Soares won the US Open men's doubles final in straight sets on Thursday.

The unseeded pair defeated eighth seeds Croatian Nikola Mektic and the Netherlands' Wesley Koolhof 7-5, 6-3, in 1 hr 31 min inside Arthur Ashe Stadium.

It marked a third Grand Slam men's doubles title for the 38-year-old Soares and a second at Flushing Meadows after his victory with Britain's Jamie Murray in 2016.

"It means a lot," said Soares. "I'm extremely happy. It's been a tough year for everyone.

"I'm really glad for the work that everyone put into this event to give us the opportunity to get back on the court.

"It's a very positive way to come back for us - happy days. Hopefully we get back to normal soon but very grateful for everything," he added.

For the 27-year-old Pavic, it is a second Grand Slam men's doubles title after victory at the Australian Open in 2018.

"We had tough matches," said Pavic.

"We were a break down serving for the match after the opening set of the second round," he added, referring to their hard-fought 6-7, 7-6 (7/5), 6-4 victory over Americans Jack Sock and Jackson Withrow.

"So we got through tough moments throughout the week. Very happy to be here lifting the title," he added.

Soares and Pavic have also enjoyed success in mixed doubles in recent years.

Soares won the US Open mixed doubles in 2012 and 2014. He also triumphed at the Australian Open mixed in 2016.

Pavic lifted the mixed at Flushing Meadows in 2016 and at the Australian Open in 2018.

The mixed&nbsp;doubles event was canceled at this year's US Open due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Mate Pavic of Croatia and Brazilian veteran Bruno Soares won the US Open men's doubles final in straight sets on Thursday. The unseeded pair defeated eighth seeds Croatian Nikola Mektic and the Netherlands' Wesley Koolhof 7-5, 6-3, in 1 hr 31 min inside Arthur Ashe Stadium.

Mate Pavic of Croatia and Brazilian veteran Bruno Soares won the US Open men's doubles final in straight sets on Thursday. The unseeded pair defeated eighth seeds Croatian Nikola Mektic and the Netherlands' Wesley Koolhof 7-5, 6-3, in 1 hr 31 min inside Arthur Ashe Stadium. It marked a third Grand Slam men's doubles title for the 38-year-old Soares and a second at Flushing Meadows after his victory with Britain's Jamie Murray in 2016. "It means a lot," said Soares. "I'm extremely happy. It's been a tough year for everyone. "I'm really glad for the work that everyone put into this event to give us the opportunity to get back on the court. "It's a very positive way to come back for us - happy days. Hopefully we get back to normal soon but very grateful for everything," he added. For the 27-year-old Pavic, it is a second Grand Slam men's doubles title after victory at the Australian Open in 2018. "We had tough matches," said Pavic. "We were a break down serving for the match after the opening set of the second round," he added, referring to their hard-fought 6-7, 7-6 (7/5), 6-4 victory over Americans Jack Sock and Jackson Withrow. "So we got through tough moments throughout the week. Very happy to be here lifting the title," he added. Soares and Pavic have also enjoyed success in mixed doubles in recent years. Soares won the US Open mixed doubles in 2012 and 2014. He also triumphed at the Australian Open mixed in 2016. Pavic lifted the mixed at Flushing Meadows in 2016 and at the Australian Open in 2018. The mixed doubles event was canceled at this year's US Open due to the coronavirus pandemic.

'Happy days' - Pavic, Soares lift US Open men's doubles trophy

Jurgen Klopp has warned Liverpool's title rivals that splashing out on new signings is no guarantee of success as the Premier League champions start their new campaign against Leeds on Saturday.

Klopp's side are back in action just seven weeks after Jordan Henderson lifted the trophy to mark the culmination of Liverpool's first title-winning campaign for 30 years.

As they powered to the title in record-setting style, Liverpool looked so untouchable that an era of sustained dominance seems eminently possible.

They won 32 of their 38 games to finish 18 points clear of second-placed Manchester City and 33 ahead of both third-placed Manchester United and fourth-placed Chelsea.

But for City, United and Chelsea, the brief break since last season has given Liverpool's title challengers a much-needed chance to improve their firepower by splashing out in the transfer window.

Chelsea have been the biggest spenders as Frank Lampard invested around £200 million ($257 million) on Timo Werner, Kai Havertz, Hakim Ziyech and Ben Chilwell, with Thiago Silva arriving on a free transfer and goalkeeper Edouard Mendy reportedly set to join from Rennes as well.

Forced to surrender the title he had won for the previous two seasons, City boss Pep Guardiola has responded by signing Dutch international Nathan Ake from Bournemouth to finally plug the hole in the heart of his defence left by Vincent Kompany's departure in 2019.

City have also signed promising Spanish winger Ferran Torres from Valencia as Guardiola looks to revitalise a team that seemed weary towards the end of a frustrating season that petered out with their limp Champions League quarter-final defeat against Lyon.

Across Manchester at Old Trafford, United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has a vibrant young team that finished strongly after the January arrival of Bruno Fernandes.

A full season for Portugal playmaker Fernandes, combined with Solskjaer's swoop for Ajax midfielder Donny van de Beek, should allow United to narrow the gap to Liverpool.

<h2>- 'Different kind of club' -</h2>

In contrast, Liverpool have adopted a cautious approach given the financial fall-out from the coronavirus -- stadiums will remain shuttered until at least October and probably longer.

Promoted Leeds, led by enigmatic boss Marcelo Bielsa on their return to the top-flight after a 16-year absence, provide intriguing opponents to measure if Liverpool's thirst for silverware has been quenched by their recent success.

Klopp's only addition to date is Greece left-back Kostas Tsimikas, but the Reds boss believes the continuity in Liverpool's squad will serve them well while their overhauled rivals try to gel.

"For some clubs it seems less important how uncertain the future is: those owned by countries, owned by oligarchs, that's the truth. We're a different kind of club," Klopp told the BBC.

"We cannot just change it overnight and say, 'so now we want to behave like Chelsea'.&nbsp;

"Now they are signing a lot of players. That can be an advantage of course but that means they have to fit together pretty quickly as well.

"It's about working together on the training ground. That will probably be an advantage for us."

Having exchanged angry words with Klopp and his coaching staff during Chelsea's defeat at Liverpool late last season, Lampard will have taken note of the latest jibe from Anfield.

But Lampard acknowledges Chelsea's lavish spending has put him under pressure to deliver a sustained title challenge after his promising first season in charge ended with an FA Cup final defeat against Arsenal.

"I know expectations will be there. I won't hide away from that," Lampard said. "I'm not going to lie, we have brought in a high level of player that we feel will improve our squad.&nbsp;

"At the same time, I also know what it takes to win the Premier League. We won't jump too far ahead of ourselves."

City and United will have to wait a week longer to play their first games of the season after being granted extra rest due to their involvement in the latter stages of European competitions last season.

Fixtures (1400 GMT unless stated):

Saturday

Fulham v Arsenal (1130), Crystal Palace v Southampton, Liverpool v Leeds (1630), West Ham v Newcastle (1900)

Sunday

West Brom v Leicester (1300), Tottenham v Everton (1530)

Monday

Sheffield United v Wolves (1700), Brighton v Chelsea (1915)

Jurgen Klopp has warned Liverpool's title rivals that splashing out on new signings is no guarantee of success as the Premier League champions start their new campaign against Leeds on Saturday.

Jurgen Klopp has warned Liverpool's title rivals that splashing out on new signings is no guarantee of success as the Premier League champions start their new campaign against Leeds on Saturday. Klopp's side are back in action just seven weeks after Jordan Henderson lifted the trophy to mark the culmination of Liverpool's first title-winning campaign for 30 years. As they powered to the title in record-setting style, Liverpool looked so untouchable that an era of sustained dominance seems eminently possible. They won 32 of their 38 games to finish 18 points clear of second-placed Manchester City and 33 ahead of both third-placed Manchester United and fourth-placed Chelsea. But for City, United and Chelsea, the brief break since last season has given Liverpool's title challengers a much-needed chance to improve their firepower by splashing out in the transfer window. Chelsea have been the biggest spenders as Frank Lampard invested around £200 million ($257 million) on Timo Werner, Kai Havertz, Hakim Ziyech and Ben Chilwell, with Thiago Silva arriving on a free transfer and goalkeeper Edouard Mendy reportedly set to join from Rennes as well. Forced to surrender the title he had won for the previous two seasons, City boss Pep Guardiola has responded by signing Dutch international Nathan Ake from Bournemouth to finally plug the hole in the heart of his defence left by Vincent Kompany's departure in 2019. City have also signed promising Spanish winger Ferran Torres from Valencia as Guardiola looks to revitalise a team that seemed weary towards the end of a frustrating season that petered out with their limp Champions League quarter-final defeat against Lyon. Across Manchester at Old Trafford, United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has a vibrant young team that finished strongly after the January arrival of Bruno Fernandes. A full season for Portugal playmaker Fernandes, combined with Solskjaer's swoop for Ajax midfielder Donny van de Beek, should allow United to narrow the gap to Liverpool. - 'Different kind of club' - In contrast, Liverpool have adopted a cautious approach given the financial fall-out from the coronavirus -- stadiums will remain shuttered until at least October and probably longer. Promoted Leeds, led by enigmatic boss Marcelo Bielsa on their return to the top-flight after a 16-year absence, provide intriguing opponents to measure if Liverpool's thirst for silverware has been quenched by their recent success. Klopp's only addition to date is Greece left-back Kostas Tsimikas, but the Reds boss believes the continuity in Liverpool's squad will serve them well while their overhauled rivals try to gel. "For some clubs it seems less important how uncertain the future is: those owned by countries, owned by oligarchs, that's the truth. We're a different kind of club," Klopp told the BBC. "We cannot just change it overnight and say, 'so now we want to behave like Chelsea'. "Now they are signing a lot of players. That can be an advantage of course but that means they have to fit together pretty quickly as well. "It's about working together on the training ground. That will probably be an advantage for us." Having exchanged angry words with Klopp and his coaching staff during Chelsea's defeat at Liverpool late last season, Lampard will have taken note of the latest jibe from Anfield. But Lampard acknowledges Chelsea's lavish spending has put him under pressure to deliver a sustained title challenge after his promising first season in charge ended with an FA Cup final defeat against Arsenal. "I know expectations will be there. I won't hide away from that," Lampard said. "I'm not going to lie, we have brought in a high level of player that we feel will improve our squad. "At the same time, I also know what it takes to win the Premier League. We won't jump too far ahead of ourselves." City and United will have to wait a week longer to play their first games of the season after being granted extra rest due to their involvement in the latter stages of European competitions last season. Fixtures (1400 GMT unless stated): Saturday Fulham v Arsenal (1130), Crystal Palace v Southampton, Liverpool v Leeds (1630), West Ham v Newcastle (1900) Sunday West Brom v Leicester (1300), Tottenham v Everton (1530) Monday Sheffield United v Wolves (1700), Brighton v Chelsea (1915)

Klopp shrugs off rivals' spending as Premier League kicks off

After 16 years in exile, Leeds United are counting down the hours until their return to Premier League action, with their enigmatic manager Marcelo Bielsa guaranteed to steal the limelight.

Leeds face a baptism of fire when they visit Premier League champions Liverpool on Saturday for their first top-flight match since 2004.

But the prospect of pitting his wits against Reds boss Jurgen Klopp is unlikely to fluster Bielsa, who has cult hero status at Elland Road after masterminding Leeds' return to the Premier League in his second season in charge.

The 65-year-old Argentine, nicknamed 'El Loco' for his madcap antics, has awoken the sleeping giants with a unique style of management that defies convention.

Ignoring the perks of his lucrative profession, Bielsa lives in a small flat above a sweet shop, holds his staff meetings in a coffee shop and is often seen in his local supermarket.

Bielsa, who sits on an upturned bucket while watching matches, announced his arrival at Leeds' training ground by ordering his squad to pick up their litter.

He once told them to deliberately concede a goal after they scored when an Aston Villa player was injured, and became embroiled in an infamous spying scandal after dispatching an assistant to secretly watch Derby training.

But alongside his eccentricities, the former Marseille and Athletic Bilbao coach has charisma and focus that inspire devotion from his players and staff.

Bielsa's belief in using video analysis of games was ground-breaking at the time he introduced it and is now standard at all top clubs, while his ability to develop young players is also admired by his peers.

Leeds midfielder Kalvin Phillips is the perfect example of how Bielsa's alchemy can work wonders.

Phillips was miscast as a box-to-box workhorse before Bielsa's arrival.

Bielsa felt Phillips' skill-set was better suited to a holding role and the 24-year-old -- dubbed the "Yorkshire Pirlo" by Leeds fans -- has improved so quickly that he won his first England cap on Tuesday after playing a key role in his club's promotion.

"He videos every minute of every training session, the warm-ups, the tactical stuff, and will just tell us what we need to do in specific moments," said Phillips, who is the first Leeds player to be picked by England since 2004.

"He's just amazing and relentless at what he does. He's obsessed with making the players the best that he can. I think he's done that with me in the two years."

Yet for a manager hailed by Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola as the best coach in the world, Bielsa has found major trophies hard to come by.

Just three Argentine league titles and an Olympic gold medal, while in charge of Argentina in 2004, were all he had amassed before Leeds won the second-tier Championship.

Leeds' collapse when promotion was within reach in 2019 raised renewed questions about his notoriously demanding training regime, but the critics have been silenced by last season's masterful ascent to the top tier.

While Bielsa claims he does not want to be judged by the "tyranny of trophies", his time in the Premier League could serve as a rebuttal to those who say he does not deserve to be ranked alongside Klopp, Guardiola and Jose Mourinho.

After the dark days of administration and a spell in the third tier since they were last in the Premier League, Leeds are desperate to make a big impact on their return to the top-flight.

Leeds fans last celebrated the English title in 1992, two decades after the trophy-laden Don Revie era, and Bielsa's next challenge is to make his side a force to be reckoned with again.

"People have been intrigued by Bielsa, they want him in the Premier League," former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher told the Daily Mail.

"There's the mystique, everything about him is quirky. Even the spying stuff, I loved it. The fact he'd go to that extreme to win a game.&nbsp;

"You want different characters in the Premier League and he's certainly that."

After 16 years in exile, Leeds United are counting down the hours until their return to Premier League action, with their enigmatic manager Marcelo Bielsa guaranteed to steal the limelight.

After 16 years in exile, Leeds United are counting down the hours until their return to Premier League action, with their enigmatic manager Marcelo Bielsa guaranteed to steal the limelight. Leeds face a baptism of fire when they visit Premier League champions Liverpool on Saturday for their first top-flight match since 2004. But the prospect of pitting his wits against Reds boss Jurgen Klopp is unlikely to fluster Bielsa, who has cult hero status at Elland Road after masterminding Leeds' return to the Premier League in his second season in charge. The 65-year-old Argentine, nicknamed 'El Loco' for his madcap antics, has awoken the sleeping giants with a unique style of management that defies convention. Ignoring the perks of his lucrative profession, Bielsa lives in a small flat above a sweet shop, holds his staff meetings in a coffee shop and is often seen in his local supermarket. Bielsa, who sits on an upturned bucket while watching matches, announced his arrival at Leeds' training ground by ordering his squad to pick up their litter. He once told them to deliberately concede a goal after they scored when an Aston Villa player was injured, and became embroiled in an infamous spying scandal after dispatching an assistant to secretly watch Derby training. But alongside his eccentricities, the former Marseille and Athletic Bilbao coach has charisma and focus that inspire devotion from his players and staff. Bielsa's belief in using video analysis of games was ground-breaking at the time he introduced it and is now standard at all top clubs, while his ability to develop young players is also admired by his peers. Leeds midfielder Kalvin Phillips is the perfect example of how Bielsa's alchemy can work wonders. Phillips was miscast as a box-to-box workhorse before Bielsa's arrival. Bielsa felt Phillips' skill-set was better suited to a holding role and the 24-year-old -- dubbed the "Yorkshire Pirlo" by Leeds fans -- has improved so quickly that he won his first England cap on Tuesday after playing a key role in his club's promotion. "He videos every minute of every training session, the warm-ups, the tactical stuff, and will just tell us what we need to do in specific moments," said Phillips, who is the first Leeds player to be picked by England since 2004. "He's just amazing and relentless at what he does. He's obsessed with making the players the best that he can. I think he's done that with me in the two years." Yet for a manager hailed by Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola as the best coach in the world, Bielsa has found major trophies hard to come by. Just three Argentine league titles and an Olympic gold medal, while in charge of Argentina in 2004, were all he had amassed before Leeds won the second-tier Championship. Leeds' collapse when promotion was within reach in 2019 raised renewed questions about his notoriously demanding training regime, but the critics have been silenced by last season's masterful ascent to the top tier. While Bielsa claims he does not want to be judged by the "tyranny of trophies", his time in the Premier League could serve as a rebuttal to those who say he does not deserve to be ranked alongside Klopp, Guardiola and Jose Mourinho. After the dark days of administration and a spell in the third tier since they were last in the Premier League, Leeds are desperate to make a big impact on their return to the top-flight. Leeds fans last celebrated the English title in 1992, two decades after the trophy-laden Don Revie era, and Bielsa's next challenge is to make his side a force to be reckoned with again. "People have been intrigued by Bielsa, they want him in the Premier League," former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher told the Daily Mail. "There's the mystique, everything about him is quirky. Even the spying stuff, I loved it. The fact he'd go to that extreme to win a game. "You want different characters in the Premier League and he's certainly that."

Bielsa in spotlight as Leeds return to Premier League

South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC) has asked Cricket South Africa's board to step aside as it investigates "many instances of maladministration and malpractice" in the crisis-ridden organisation.

SASCOC's action, which means that there is no one to run daily affairs of CSA, is another setback to the board which is in the middle of administrative chaos and facing allegations of corruption and racial discrimination.

ESPNcricinfo reported that SASCOC took the decision unanimously at a board meeting on Tuesday alleging "many instances of maladministration and malpractice at CSA which "has brought cricket into disrepute".

CSA' former CEO Thabang Monroe was fired last month following the findings of a forensic report that revealed "acts of serious misconduct".

Acting CEO Jacques Faul and president Chris Nenzani resigned last month with Kugandrie Govender replacing Faul. 
Country's elite players have also criticised CSA for postponing its AGM scheduled for September 5.

CSA also faces action from the International Cricket Council as SASCOC's action could also be seen as government interference.

In a statement, CSA objected to SASCOC's decision to suspend the board.

"CSA, including its Members' Council, does not agree with the resolution taken by SASCOC and has not had the opportunity to engage with SASCOC on various issues raised in the communication.

"In addition, CSA is taking legal advice regarding the basis on which SASCOC has sought to intervene in the business affairs of CSA. CSA does, however, commit to engaging further with SASCOC to understand its position and to find common ground with it in the best interests of cricket," said CSA.

South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC) has asked Cricket South Africa's board to step aside as it investigates "many instances of maladministration and malpractice" in the crisis-ridden organisation.

South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC) has asked Cricket South Africa's board to step aside as it investigates "many instances of maladministration and malpractice" in the crisis-ridden organisation. SASCOC's action, which means that there is no one to run daily affairs of CSA, is another setback to the board which is in the middle of administrative chaos and facing allegations of corruption and racial discrimination. ESPNcricinfo reported that SASCOC took the decision unanimously at a board meeting on Tuesday alleging "many instances of maladministration and malpractice at CSA which "has brought cricket into disrepute". CSA' former CEO Thabang Monroe was fired last month following the findings of a forensic report that revealed "acts of serious misconduct". Acting CEO Jacques Faul and president Chris Nenzani resigned last month with Kugandrie Govender replacing Faul. Country's elite players have also criticised CSA for postponing its AGM scheduled for September 5. CSA also faces action from the International Cricket Council as SASCOC's action could also be seen as government interference. In a statement, CSA objected to SASCOC's decision to suspend the board. "CSA, including its Members' Council, does not agree with the resolution taken by SASCOC and has not had the opportunity to engage with SASCOC on various issues raised in the communication. "In addition, CSA is taking legal advice regarding the basis on which SASCOC has sought to intervene in the business affairs of CSA. CSA does, however, commit to engaging further with SASCOC to understand its position and to find common ground with it in the best interests of cricket," said CSA.

South Africa's Olympic body takes control of CSA, asks its board to step aside pending investigation

Fourth seed Naomi Osaka defeated 28th seed Jennifer Brady in a high quality three-setter to reach the US Open final on Thursday, crediting her run to a carefree attitude post-lockdown.&nbsp;

The Japanese 2018 US Open champion overcame the 25-year-old American 7-6 (7/1), 3-6, 6-3 in 2hr 8min under the roof of Arthur Ashe Stadium.

Osaka, 22, will play either Serena Williams or Victoria Azarenka in Saturday's final.&nbsp;

"I just felt like I was sticking it out, it felt like we were trading serves," Osaka said of the semi-final tussle.

"I think I tried to adjust a little bit on her serve in the third set so maybe that helped," she added.

Brady, 25, had not dropped a set during her run to her first Grand Slam semi-final.&nbsp;

And the world number 41 went toe-to-toe with Osaka until the first set tie-break.&nbsp;

The players traded six held service games each before Osaka the world number nine took control of the tie-break.&nbsp;

At 2-1, Osaka won five points in a row, which included two unforced errors by Brady.

In set two the first seven games were held before Brady broke Osaka's serve to take a 5-3 lead.&nbsp;

She then successfully held to take the match to a deciding third set as the duo traded big serves with powerful forehand groundstrokes.

The breakthrough in the deciding set came game when Osaka broke Brady's serve in a fourth game that included a lucky net cord point for the Japanese.

Osaka then held her own to go 4-1 in front with the help of another net cord point.

Brady refused to go quietly though, forcing Osaka to hold twice to ensure the win and a second US Open final in three years.

"I kind of consider New York my second home. I really love the atmosphere," Osaka said.

"Even though sadly there's no people here, I really feel like this court really suits me well," she added.

Osaka has now won her last ten matches.

"I just felt like I wanted to come out of quarantine being positive and not really caring if I win or lose," she said.

Osaka, of Haitian and Japanese heritage, walked onto the court wearing a facemask emblazoned with the name of Philando Castile, a black man who was shot dead by a police officer during a traffic stop in Minnesota in 2016.&nbsp;

The 2019 Australian Open champion is wearing different masks honoring victims of racial injustice and police brutality throughout the tournament.&nbsp;

She has already donned face coverings bearing the names of Breonna Taylor, Elijah McClain, Ahmaud Arbery, Trayvon Martin and George Floyd.

Fourth seed Naomi Osaka defeated 28th seed Jennifer Brady in a high quality three-setter to reach the US Open final on Thursday, crediting her run to a carefree attitude post-lockdown.

Fourth seed Naomi Osaka defeated 28th seed Jennifer Brady in a high quality three-setter to reach the US Open final on Thursday, crediting her run to a carefree attitude post-lockdown. The Japanese 2018 US Open champion overcame the 25-year-old American 7-6 (7/1), 3-6, 6-3 in 2hr 8min under the roof of Arthur Ashe Stadium. Osaka, 22, will play either Serena Williams or Victoria Azarenka in Saturday's final. "I just felt like I was sticking it out, it felt like we were trading serves," Osaka said of the semi-final tussle. "I think I tried to adjust a little bit on her serve in the third set so maybe that helped," she added. Brady, 25, had not dropped a set during her run to her first Grand Slam semi-final. And the world number 41 went toe-to-toe with Osaka until the first set tie-break. The players traded six held service games each before Osaka the world number nine took control of the tie-break. At 2-1, Osaka won five points in a row, which included two unforced errors by Brady. In set two the first seven games were held before Brady broke Osaka's serve to take a 5-3 lead. She then successfully held to take the match to a deciding third set as the duo traded big serves with powerful forehand groundstrokes. The breakthrough in the deciding set came game when Osaka broke Brady's serve in a fourth game that included a lucky net cord point for the Japanese. Osaka then held her own to go 4-1 in front with the help of another net cord point. Brady refused to go quietly though, forcing Osaka to hold twice to ensure the win and a second US Open final in three years. "I kind of consider New York my second home. I really love the atmosphere," Osaka said. "Even though sadly there's no people here, I really feel like this court really suits me well," she added. Osaka has now won her last ten matches. "I just felt like I wanted to come out of quarantine being positive and not really caring if I win or lose," she said. Osaka, of Haitian and Japanese heritage, walked onto the court wearing a facemask emblazoned with the name of Philando Castile, a black man who was shot dead by a police officer during a traffic stop in Minnesota in 2016. The 2019 Australian Open champion is wearing different masks honoring victims of racial injustice and police brutality throughout the tournament. She has already donned face coverings bearing the names of Breonna Taylor, Elijah McClain, Ahmaud Arbery, Trayvon Martin and George Floyd.

'Positive' Osaka beats Brady to reach US Open final

Lendl Simmons and Darren Bravo ensured Trinbago Knight Riders completed the first perfect season in franchise T20 history with an unbroken partnership of 138 off 88 balls, the highest of Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2020 and the highest ever in a final. The St Lucia Zouks put up what seemed a competitive total, but ultimately a loss of 7/39 off the last 32 balls of their innings cost them dearly against this history-making Knight Riders squad.

Rakheem Cornwall swept Akeal Hosein for four but was lucky to edge over DJ Bravo at slip. Knight Riders captain Kieron Pollard gave the second over to Ali Khan, and Ali responded by flattening Cornwall’s middle stump. Andre Fletcher clipped fine for four, the Zouks thus closing the second over at 16/1.

Mark Deyal slog-swept Hosein for two fours, and Fletcher was aggressive against Sikandar Raza, taking him over cover and long-on for Hero Maximums then cutting for four. Khary Pierre went for just five, but Fletcher twice smoked Ali through cover for four and the Zouks motored to 60/1 off the Powerplay.

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2020-updated-squad-list-of-all-the-franchises-retained-and-bought-players-326654" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Updated squad list of all the franchises; retained and bought players</a>

Deyal lofted Pierre over cover for four and launched Pollard for six, but struggled to combat Fawad Ahmed’s googly and edged to DJ Bravo at slip. Hosein returned with a tight over, and at halfway the Knight Riders had slowed the Zouks to 79/2. 
 
Roston Chase clipped through midwicket for four early in Fawad’s second over, which went for 10, but Fletcher’s assault ended as he aimed Pollard down the ground but found only Darren Bravo at long-off. Najibullah Zadran slashed his first ball for four, and the over went for seven to leave the Zouks in need of a partnership at 79/3 off 12 overs. 
 
While Chase slog-swept the last ball of Pierre’s over for a Hero Maximum, he and Mohammad Nabi fell within four balls, the former chipping a Pollard cutter to deep-mid on and the latter clubbing Fawad to long-off. Zouks captain Daren Sammy smashed his second ball for a Hero Maximum, and after 15 overs the Zouks were 123/5. 
 
Despite a Najibullah four, Ali’s return over went for just six, and Sammy should have fallen to Hosein but Ali badly misjudged the catch. Najibullah flicked Hosein for a delightful Hero Maximum over cover, but Hosein recovered to dismiss Sammy LBW. After 17 overs, the Zouks were 138/6.

DJ Bravo was unable to bowl, and so Pollard had to step up at the death and did so admirably, picking up two wickets with his off-cutter. First Javelle Glenn looped to backward point, then Najibullah failed to clear Raza at deep backward square off another cutter. Kesrick Williams was run out, Ali Khan bowled Zahir Khan with a perfect yorker, and the Knight Riders had bowled the Zouks out for a decent rather than dominant total.

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2020-from-raina-to-malinga-top-players-who-have-pulled-out-of-the-tournament-326040" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: From Raina to Malinga - Top players who have pulled out of the tournament</a>

Simmons pulled Scott Kuggeleijn for four first ball of the chase, becoming CPL’s all-time leading run-scorer in doing so. Webster swept Nabi for four but then top-edged off Chase, Williams taking a fine catch. After three overs, the Knight Riders were 14/1. 
 
Tim Seifert got off the mark with a four off Kuggeleijn, but fell edging behind next ball. Darren Bravo too got off the mark with a boundary, a glorious lofted Hero Maximum over long-on off Chase, and Simmons took fours straight, fine down the leg side and backward of point off Williams’ first over to close the Powerplay with the Knight Riders 40/2. 
 
Chase and Nabi put the pressure on, going for just five between them, and Simmons and Bravo both struggled against Zahir. When Simmons did take on the big shot though he nailed it over the fence, and at halfway the Knight Riders were 59/2 and needed 96 more to win. 
 
Sammy brought himself on and bowled five good deliveries, but Bravo smashed the sixth for a Hero Maximum, and Simmons pulled Williams for a six then cut him for four, becoming Hero CPL 2020’s leading run-scorer and bringing up his 50 off just 31 balls. Bravo though continued to struggle against Chase, who closed out a superb spell.

After 13 overs, Bravo was just 23 off 32 balls, and the Knight Riders needed almost 10 an over, but he eased both of those equations somewhat with two Hero Maximums off Glenn. Williams’s third over went for nine thanks to two wides and a loose short ball, and the Knight Riders entered the last five overs needing 45 with eight wickets still in hand. 
 
Kuggeleijn managed to go for just four off the 16th despite starting with a wide, but Simmons targeted Zahir, taking him for four off the first and six off the second. Bravo added two big Hero Maximums, the second bringing up his 50 off 45 balls. Suddenly, the Knight Riders needed just 18. 
 
Simmons was not going to hang around now, walloping Kuggeleijn for a Hero Maximum over midwicket then clubbing him over cover and slicing him through third man for two fours. The winning runs came off an inside edge, but there was now no denying the Knight Riders’ domination of Hero CPL 2020.

All season, the Knight Riders had absorbed the loss of key personnel - Colin Munro fractured his hand, Ali Khan missed games, Narine had kidney stones removed and was unable to play the final with a knee injury. But perhaps the 12th and final win is the greatest measure of how great a squad Pollard and Brendon McCullum have built - victory was achieved two wickets down, with 11 balls to spare, without DJ Bravo bowling or Pollard batting. The Knight Riders had come together in the bubble, and emerged from it to achieve something truly monumental.

Lendl Simmons and Darren Bravo ensured Trinbago Knight Riders completed the first perfect season in franchise T20 history with an unbroken partnership of 138 off 88 balls, the highest of Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2020 and the highest ever in a final.

Lendl Simmons and Darren Bravo ensured Trinbago Knight Riders completed the first perfect season in franchise T20 history with an unbroken partnership of 138 off 88 balls, the highest of Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2020 and the highest ever in a final. The St Lucia Zouks put up what seemed a competitive total, but ultimately a loss of 7/39 off the last 32 balls of their innings cost them dearly against this history-making Knight Riders squad. Rakheem Cornwall swept Akeal Hosein for four but was lucky to edge over DJ Bravo at slip. Knight Riders captain Kieron Pollard gave the second over to Ali Khan, and Ali responded by flattening Cornwall’s middle stump. Andre Fletcher clipped fine for four, the Zouks thus closing the second over at 16/1. Mark Deyal slog-swept Hosein for two fours, and Fletcher was aggressive against Sikandar Raza, taking him over cover and long-on for Hero Maximums then cutting for four. Khary Pierre went for just five, but Fletcher twice smoked Ali through cover for four and the Zouks motored to 60/1 off the Powerplay. IN PICS | IPL 2020: Updated squad list of all the franchises; retained and bought players Deyal lofted Pierre over cover for four and launched Pollard for six, but struggled to combat Fawad Ahmed’s googly and edged to DJ Bravo at slip. Hosein returned with a tight over, and at halfway the Knight Riders had slowed the Zouks to 79/2. Roston Chase clipped through midwicket for four early in Fawad’s second over, which went for 10, but Fletcher’s assault ended as he aimed Pollard down the ground but found only Darren Bravo at long-off. Najibullah Zadran slashed his first ball for four, and the over went for seven to leave the Zouks in need of a partnership at 79/3 off 12 overs. While Chase slog-swept the last ball of Pierre’s over for a Hero Maximum, he and Mohammad Nabi fell within four balls, the former chipping a Pollard cutter to deep-mid on and the latter clubbing Fawad to long-off. Zouks captain Daren Sammy smashed his second ball for a Hero Maximum, and after 15 overs the Zouks were 123/5. Despite a Najibullah four, Ali’s return over went for just six, and Sammy should have fallen to Hosein but Ali badly misjudged the catch. Najibullah flicked Hosein for a delightful Hero Maximum over cover, but Hosein recovered to dismiss Sammy LBW. After 17 overs, the Zouks were 138/6. DJ Bravo was unable to bowl, and so Pollard had to step up at the death and did so admirably, picking up two wickets with his off-cutter. First Javelle Glenn looped to backward point, then Najibullah failed to clear Raza at deep backward square off another cutter. Kesrick Williams was run out, Ali Khan bowled Zahir Khan with a perfect yorker, and the Knight Riders had bowled the Zouks out for a decent rather than dominant total. IN PICS | IPL 2020: From Raina to Malinga - Top players who have pulled out of the tournament Simmons pulled Scott Kuggeleijn for four first ball of the chase, becoming CPL’s all-time leading run-scorer in doing so. Webster swept Nabi for four but then top-edged off Chase, Williams taking a fine catch. After three overs, the Knight Riders were 14/1. Tim Seifert got off the mark with a four off Kuggeleijn, but fell edging behind next ball. Darren Bravo too got off the mark with a boundary, a glorious lofted Hero Maximum over long-on off Chase, and Simmons took fours straight, fine down the leg side and backward of point off Williams’ first over to close the Powerplay with the Knight Riders 40/2. Chase and Nabi put the pressure on, going for just five between them, and Simmons and Bravo both struggled against Zahir. When Simmons did take on the big shot though he nailed it over the fence, and at halfway the Knight Riders were 59/2 and needed 96 more to win. Sammy brought himself on and bowled five good deliveries, but Bravo smashed the sixth for a Hero Maximum, and Simmons pulled Williams for a six then cut him for four, becoming Hero CPL 2020’s leading run-scorer and bringing up his 50 off just 31 balls. Bravo though continued to struggle against Chase, who closed out a superb spell. After 13 overs, Bravo was just 23 off 32 balls, and the Knight Riders needed almost 10 an over, but he eased both of those equations somewhat with two Hero Maximums off Glenn. Williams’s third over went for nine thanks to two wides and a loose short ball, and the Knight Riders entered the last five overs needing 45 with eight wickets still in hand. Kuggeleijn managed to go for just four off the 16th despite starting with a wide, but Simmons targeted Zahir, taking him for four off the first and six off the second. Bravo added two big Hero Maximums, the second bringing up his 50 off 45 balls. Suddenly, the Knight Riders needed just 18. Simmons was not going to hang around now, walloping Kuggeleijn for a Hero Maximum over midwicket then clubbing him over cover and slicing him through third man for two fours. The winning runs came off an inside edge, but there was now no denying the Knight Riders’ domination of Hero CPL 2020. All season, the Knight Riders had absorbed the loss of key personnel - Colin Munro fractured his hand, Ali Khan missed games, Narine had kidney stones removed and was unable to play the final with a knee injury. But perhaps the 12th and final win is the greatest measure of how great a squad Pollard and Brendon McCullum have built - victory was achieved two wickets down, with 11 balls to spare, without DJ Bravo bowling or Pollard batting. The Knight Riders had come together in the bubble, and emerged from it to achieve something truly monumental.

Perfect Trinbago Knight Riders power to CPL 2020 title

Jose Mourinho is confident Tottenham will have a new striker before the end of the transfer window as he aims to build a squad capable of dealing with a brutal early-season schedule.

Spurs face having to play two midweek matches for two consecutive weeks later this month should they progress in the Europa League qualifying rounds and the League Cup.

"Yes I want, I need a striker but I want to make it clear, the club knows that I need a striker and they also want a striker," Mourinho said on Friday.

"Are we going to get one? I believe so. For the balance of the squad, the team needs it. Especially after the gift we had from the EFL (English Football League) and UEFA.&nbsp;

"We had an amazing gift that gives me after 20 years of football a unique experience of playing Sunday-Tuesday-Thursday-Sunday for two consecutive weeks."

Mourinho has already added Joe Hart, Matt Doherty and Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg to his squad but does not believe the presence of Harry Kane should discourage other strikers from joining Tottenham.

"I know we have one of the best strikers in the world, I know we have the best in England but I don't like the word 'back-up'," he added, speaking about problems in attracting a striker willing to be a reserve to the English captain.

<h2>- 'Best striker' Kane -</h2>

"A striker can play with Harry Kane -- a striker that comes here is not to be just feeling that he is in that back-up situation.&nbsp;

"So, yes we have the best striker in the country, but we want a striker who can give us more than we have and that is to play, and why not play with Harry?"

After hosting Everton to begin their Premier League campaign on Sunday, Spurs face the first of potentially three Europa League qualifiers with a trip to Bulgarian side Lokomotiv Plovdiv.

Should Mourinho's men progress they will play Leyton Orient or Plymouth Argyle in the third round of the League Cup on September 22 and then have another long Europa League trip to Romania or Macedonia two days later.

Win both ties and Tottenham will have to do the same again a week later.

One of Mourinho's main aims when he was appointed was to end Tottenham's 12-year trophy drought and he blasted the scheduling that puts their chances in two cup competitions at risk.

"It's not human. It is a big risk in terms of our ambitions first of all," he said.

"If we decide that one of these competitions is not important for us we go against the nature of the club, we go against our own nature, we go against our own ambitions, our rights to try and fight for the competition.

"Which professionals, who are the people, who are the illuminated who make these decisions?

"I would like to know who makes a team play Sunday-Tuesday-Thursday-Sunday-Tuesday-Thursday-Sunday. Do they want us to play with the youth team in the Carabao (League) Cup? That's my question."

Jose Mourinho is confident Tottenham will have a new striker before the end of the transfer window as he aims to build a squad capable of dealing with a brutal early-season schedule.

Jose Mourinho is confident Tottenham will have a new striker before the end of the transfer window as he aims to build a squad capable of dealing with a brutal early-season schedule. Spurs face having to play two midweek matches for two consecutive weeks later this month should they progress in the Europa League qualifying rounds and the League Cup. "Yes I want, I need a striker but I want to make it clear, the club knows that I need a striker and they also want a striker," Mourinho said on Friday. "Are we going to get one? I believe so. For the balance of the squad, the team needs it. Especially after the gift we had from the EFL (English Football League) and UEFA. "We had an amazing gift that gives me after 20 years of football a unique experience of playing Sunday-Tuesday-Thursday-Sunday for two consecutive weeks." Mourinho has already added Joe Hart, Matt Doherty and Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg to his squad but does not believe the presence of Harry Kane should discourage other strikers from joining Tottenham. "I know we have one of the best strikers in the world, I know we have the best in England but I don't like the word 'back-up'," he added, speaking about problems in attracting a striker willing to be a reserve to the English captain. - 'Best striker' Kane - "A striker can play with Harry Kane -- a striker that comes here is not to be just feeling that he is in that back-up situation. "So, yes we have the best striker in the country, but we want a striker who can give us more than we have and that is to play, and why not play with Harry?" After hosting Everton to begin their Premier League campaign on Sunday, Spurs face the first of potentially three Europa League qualifiers with a trip to Bulgarian side Lokomotiv Plovdiv. Should Mourinho's men progress they will play Leyton Orient or Plymouth Argyle in the third round of the League Cup on September 22 and then have another long Europa League trip to Romania or Macedonia two days later. Win both ties and Tottenham will have to do the same again a week later. One of Mourinho's main aims when he was appointed was to end Tottenham's 12-year trophy drought and he blasted the scheduling that puts their chances in two cup competitions at risk. "It's not human. It is a big risk in terms of our ambitions first of all," he said. "If we decide that one of these competitions is not important for us we go against the nature of the club, we go against our own nature, we go against our own ambitions, our rights to try and fight for the competition. "Which professionals, who are the people, who are the illuminated who make these decisions? "I would like to know who makes a team play Sunday-Tuesday-Thursday-Sunday-Tuesday-Thursday-Sunday. Do they want us to play with the youth team in the Carabao (League) Cup? That's my question."

Mourinho confident of landing new Spurs striker for 'non-human' schedule

Australia star batsman Steve Smith is set to undergo a fresh concussion test before the second one-day international against England after being ruled out of Friday's opener at Old Trafford in bizarre fashion.

Smith was sidelined from the first of a three-match series after being hit on the head batting in the nets, from a delivery by one of Australia's fast bowlers, but rather a throw-down from a member of the coaching staff.

An Australia team spokesman said Smith was being rested as a precaution despite passing a concussion assessment and would have another such test on Saturday ahead of Sunday's second ODI.

"Steve Smith got a knock on the head yesterday (Thursday) in practice so it's a precautionary measure to leave him out," Australia captain Aaron Finch told Sky Sports at the toss. "(Marcus) Stoinis will bat at three."

Smith was dramatically felled by a 92 mph bouncer from England fast bowler Jofra Archer during last year's drawn second Test at Lord's, paving the way for Marnus Labuschagne to become international cricket's first concussion substitute.

Despite missing the third Test at Headingley, Smith still scored 774 runs, including three hundreds, at an average of over 110 during a five-match series that ended all square at 2-2.

In the 31-year-old former captain Smith's absence, Australia slumped to 123-5 inside 24 overs on Friday after losing the toss.

Stoinis was well caught by diving wicketkeeper Jos Buttler off fast bowler Mark Wood for 43, featuring six fours. Then both Labuschagne (21) and Alex Carey (10) fell to leg-spinner Adil Rashid in what was Australia's first one-day international against England since an eight-wicket defeat by the eventual champions in last year's World Cup semi-final at Edgbaston.

Australia star batsman Steve Smith is set to undergo a fresh concussion test before the second one-day international against England after being ruled out of Friday's opener at Old Trafford in bizarre fashion.

Australia star batsman Steve Smith is set to undergo a fresh concussion test before the second one-day international against England after being ruled out of Friday's opener at Old Trafford in bizarre fashion. Smith was sidelined from the first of a three-match series after being hit on the head batting in the nets, from a delivery by one of Australia's fast bowlers, but rather a throw-down from a member of the coaching staff. An Australia team spokesman said Smith was being rested as a precaution despite passing a concussion assessment and would have another such test on Saturday ahead of Sunday's second ODI. "Steve Smith got a knock on the head yesterday (Thursday) in practice so it's a precautionary measure to leave him out," Australia captain Aaron Finch told Sky Sports at the toss. "(Marcus) Stoinis will bat at three." Smith was dramatically felled by a 92 mph bouncer from England fast bowler Jofra Archer during last year's drawn second Test at Lord's, paving the way for Marnus Labuschagne to become international cricket's first concussion substitute. Despite missing the third Test at Headingley, Smith still scored 774 runs, including three hundreds, at an average of over 110 during a five-match series that ended all square at 2-2. In the 31-year-old former captain Smith's absence, Australia slumped to 123-5 inside 24 overs on Friday after losing the toss. Stoinis was well caught by diving wicketkeeper Jos Buttler off fast bowler Mark Wood for 43, featuring six fours. Then both Labuschagne (21) and Alex Carey (10) fell to leg-spinner Adil Rashid in what was Australia's first one-day international against England since an eight-wicket defeat by the eventual champions in last year's World Cup semi-final at Edgbaston.

Australia's Smith to have new concussion test ahead of 2nd England ODI

Suresh Raina opting out of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 has left a huge void in the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) as the three-time IPL winners will be without their leading run-scorer and second in tournament history. While there have been speculations over who would replace Raina or whether the southpaw would return back to the Super Kings back, former New Zealand all-rounder Scott Styris has said he would put Ambati Rayudu at number three spot in the CSK batting line-up.&nbsp;

Styris opined that CSK have a lot of options in their overseas players or even someone like Ruturaj Gaikwad or Ravindra Jadeja but added he would personally put Rayudu at number three in the CSK batting line-up.

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2020-from-raina-to-malinga-top-players-who-have-pulled-out-of-the-tournament-326040" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: From Raina to Malinga - Top players who have pulled out of the tournament</a>

“Yeah, tough one, isn’t it, a player of that class, a player who has been so good for so long. To suddenly finds those runs, even in the field and the odd over as well with the ball, is going to be a big task. I know that the CSK squad is deep, they’ve got a lot of options at the top, but I also believe that as much as the pressure is now on to find that No. 3, it’s just probably the most challenging time that I can look for any way for CSK,” said Styris on Star Sports’ Cricket Connected.

“Couple of options they could go with, the two overseas players at the top and bring in the youngster Gaikwad as well or they may decide to have a pitch-hitter. I know that Simon Doull, my fellow New Zealander is guesstimated that Mitchell Santner could go to the top. May be even someone like Jadeja too, who we have seen in Indian colours, has been so good, so they need to find that No. 3. Personally, I’d put Rayudu in there to take that spot,” added Styris.'

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-dawid-malan-to-replace-suresh-raina-csk-ceo-clears-the-air-326804" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Dawid Malan to replace Suresh Raina? CSK CEO clears the air</a>

Meanwhile, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) CEO Kasi Viswanathan has dismissed the rumours of England batsman Dawid Malan replacing Raina as he said that CSK’s overseas quota is full.&nbsp;

CSK will open their campaign on match day one against defending champions Mumbai Indians on September 19.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Suresh Raina opting out of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 has left a huge void in the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) as the three-time IPL winners will be without their leading run-scorer and second in tournament history.

Suresh Raina opting out of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 has left a huge void in the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) as the three-time IPL winners will be without their leading run-scorer and second in tournament history. While there have been speculations over who would replace Raina or whether the southpaw would return back to the Super Kings back, former New Zealand all-rounder Scott Styris has said he would put Ambati Rayudu at number three spot in the CSK batting line-up. Styris opined that CSK have a lot of options in their overseas players or even someone like Ruturaj Gaikwad or Ravindra Jadeja but added he would personally put Rayudu at number three in the CSK batting line-up. IN PICS | IPL 2020: From Raina to Malinga - Top players who have pulled out of the tournament “Yeah, tough one, isn’t it, a player of that class, a player who has been so good for so long. To suddenly finds those runs, even in the field and the odd over as well with the ball, is going to be a big task. I know that the CSK squad is deep, they’ve got a lot of options at the top, but I also believe that as much as the pressure is now on to find that No. 3, it’s just probably the most challenging time that I can look for any way for CSK,” said Styris on Star Sports’ Cricket Connected. “Couple of options they could go with, the two overseas players at the top and bring in the youngster Gaikwad as well or they may decide to have a pitch-hitter. I know that Simon Doull, my fellow New Zealander is guesstimated that Mitchell Santner could go to the top. May be even someone like Jadeja too, who we have seen in Indian colours, has been so good, so they need to find that No. 3. Personally, I’d put Rayudu in there to take that spot,” added Styris.' ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Dawid Malan to replace Suresh Raina? CSK CEO clears the air Meanwhile, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) CEO Kasi Viswanathan has dismissed the rumours of England batsman Dawid Malan replacing Raina as he said that CSK’s overseas quota is full. CSK will open their campaign on match day one against defending champions Mumbai Indians on September 19.

IPL 13: Who should replace Suresh Raina in CSK playing XI? Scott Styris opines

With <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a> approaching fast, pundits and former cricketers have started predicting their favourites and what to expect from the lucrative T20 tournament. Former Pakistan skipper Ramiz Raja has said that conditions in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will make life tough for ‘big hitters’ such as Hardik Pandya, Kieron Pollard, Chris Lynn and others.

Raja is of the view that teams who have a strong spin department will do well, keeping the slowish pitches in the UAE while adding fast bowlers will depend a lot on their variations rather than express pace.&nbsp;

“I think the teams who have a good spin department will do well, that is the first thing,” Raja said on the YouTube show Cric Cast.

“The big-hitters will struggle. Like Lynn, Pollard or Pandya brothers, Hardik Pandya probably although he plays spin well. But I feel that the team selection in this IPL will be slightly different. Fast bowling will be difficult, you will see a lot of variations.”

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>

Interestingly, Kieron Pollard has been extremely successful in the recently concluded Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2020 where he led from the front and helped Trinbago Knight Riders lift the trophy. He was terrific with both bat and ball. However, the former Pakistani captain seems unimpressed with the showing and has come to a verdict that big hitters will struggle during the course of IPL 2020.

Raja further opined that lack of fans in the stand and staying inside bio-bubble for nearly two months will take a toll on players’ performance in IPL 2020.&nbsp;

“And behind closed doors, what will be the impact, because you will have to almost remain like a prisoner in a bio-secure environment and put up your best performance. So it becomes a difficult task. Because IPL without the buzz of the crowd is incomplete,” Raja said.

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2020-updated-squad-list-of-all-the-franchises-retained-and-bought-players-326654" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Updated squad list of all franchises; retained and bought players</a>

&nbsp;“So big teams will be playing away from their homes where they had a lot of advantage, for e.g. Kolkata Knight Riders had an advantage of playing at the Eden Gardens where the crowd support helps them in crunch moments. Similarly, RCB plays in Bangalore, who get an advantage there. So, it will be interesting to see how they adjust themselves in neutral territory.”

IPL 2020 starts from September 19 with the final scheduled on November 10 in the UAE. 
&nbsp;

With Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 approaching fast, pundits and former cricketers have started predicting their favourites and what to expect from the lucrative T20 tournament.

With Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 approaching fast, pundits and former cricketers have started predicting their favourites and what to expect from the lucrative T20 tournament. Former Pakistan skipper Ramiz Raja has said that conditions in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will make life tough for ‘big hitters’ such as Hardik Pandya, Kieron Pollard, Chris Lynn and others. Raja is of the view that teams who have a strong spin department will do well, keeping the slowish pitches in the UAE while adding fast bowlers will depend a lot on their variations rather than express pace. “I think the teams who have a good spin department will do well, that is the first thing,” Raja said on the YouTube show Cric Cast. “The big-hitters will struggle. Like Lynn, Pollard or Pandya brothers, Hardik Pandya probably although he plays spin well. But I feel that the team selection in this IPL will be slightly different. Fast bowling will be difficult, you will see a lot of variations.” IN PICS | IPL 2020: Predicting MVPs from each franchise Interestingly, Kieron Pollard has been extremely successful in the recently concluded Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2020 where he led from the front and helped Trinbago Knight Riders lift the trophy. He was terrific with both bat and ball. However, the former Pakistani captain seems unimpressed with the showing and has come to a verdict that big hitters will struggle during the course of IPL 2020. Raja further opined that lack of fans in the stand and staying inside bio-bubble for nearly two months will take a toll on players’ performance in IPL 2020. “And behind closed doors, what will be the impact, because you will have to almost remain like a prisoner in a bio-secure environment and put up your best performance. So it becomes a difficult task. Because IPL without the buzz of the crowd is incomplete,” Raja said. IN PICS | IPL 2020: Updated squad list of all franchises; retained and bought players “So big teams will be playing away from their homes where they had a lot of advantage, for e.g. Kolkata Knight Riders had an advantage of playing at the Eden Gardens where the crowd support helps them in crunch moments. Similarly, RCB plays in Bangalore, who get an advantage there. So, it will be interesting to see how they adjust themselves in neutral territory.” IPL 2020 starts from September 19 with the final scheduled on November 10 in the UAE.

IPL 2020: Ramiz Raja feels Hardik Pandya, Kieron Pollard and other 'big-hitters' will struggle

Jofra Archer on Friday bowled an absolute cracker of a delivery to dismiss Australian opener David Warner as England and Australia locked horns in the first of the three-match ODI series at Emirates Old Trafford in Manchester.&nbsp;

Warner started his innings on a cautious note but it wasn’t long before Archer produced a jaffa! The length delivery by the English speedster moved late to catch Warner off the guard as the ball went onto hit the top of the off-stump.&nbsp;

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>

<h2>Watch: Jofra Archer dismisses David Warner with an absolute jaffa!&nbsp;</h2>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Oh, Jof 😍 
 
Scorecard &amp; Clips: <a href="https://t.co/FTTwAkwEXU">https://t.co/FTTwAkwEXU</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGvAUS</a> <a href="https://t.co/i733oSWOrQ">pic.twitter.com/i733oSWOrQ</a>
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/englandcricket/status/1304393758017032192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, England will be looking to continue their winning run and take forward the charge in the ODI series after defeating Australia 2-1 in the T20I series. Whereas Australia would be hoping for a much inspired performance after losing out in the shortest format of the game.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-england-australia-players-to-be-available-for-kkr-from-first-match-says-ceo-venky-mysore-326871" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: England, Australia players to be available for KKR from first match, says CEO Venky Mysore</a>

Steve Smith missed out from the Australian playing XI after copping a blow on his head during training. He was left out as a precautionary move. For England, Jason Roy and Chris Woakes came into the XI as exciting young talent Tom Banton missed out. Marnus Labuschagne also came into the Australian playing XI.

<h2>Here's what the captain said during the toss:</h2>

Aaron Finch - 'We might have actually batted first, looks like a good wicket. Steve Smith misses out, he got a knock on his head while practising yesterday. Marcus Stoinis will bat at three. These games are a chance to improve, a chance to keep winning, we have played some good ODI cricket over the last season. We're confident of moving in the right direction. Plenty of world-class players on show, should be a good series.'

Eoin Morgan - 'Looks like a good wicket, could be a bit tacky, hopefully, we will restrict them to a low score. Nice to have the senior players from the World Cup group back. The wind shouldn't be a factor, we just need to play our game. They are a difficult side to beat, we should be at our best to beat them.' 
&nbsp;

Jofra Archer on Friday bowled an absolute cracker of a delivery to dismiss Australian opener David Warner as England and Australia locked horns in the first of the three-match ODI series at Emirates Old Trafford in Manchester.

Jofra Archer on Friday bowled an absolute cracker of a delivery to dismiss Australian opener David Warner as England and Australia locked horns in the first of the three-match ODI series at Emirates Old Trafford in Manchester. Warner started his innings on a cautious note but it wasn’t long before Archer produced a jaffa! The length delivery by the English speedster moved late to catch Warner off the guard as the ball went onto hit the top of the off-stump. IN PICS | IPL 2020: Predicting MVPs from each franchise Watch: Jofra Archer dismisses David Warner with an absolute jaffa! Oh, Jof 😍 Scorecard & Clips: https://t.co/FTTwAkwEXU#ENGvAUS pic.twitter.com/i733oSWOrQ — England Cricket (@englandcricket) September 11, 2020 × Meanwhile, England will be looking to continue their winning run and take forward the charge in the ODI series after defeating Australia 2-1 in the T20I series. Whereas Australia would be hoping for a much inspired performance after losing out in the shortest format of the game. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: England, Australia players to be available for KKR from first match, says CEO Venky Mysore Steve Smith missed out from the Australian playing XI after copping a blow on his head during training. He was left out as a precautionary move. For England, Jason Roy and Chris Woakes came into the XI as exciting young talent Tom Banton missed out. Marnus Labuschagne also came into the Australian playing XI. Here's what the captain said during the toss: Aaron Finch - 'We might have actually batted first, looks like a good wicket. Steve Smith misses out, he got a knock on his head while practising yesterday. Marcus Stoinis will bat at three. These games are a chance to improve, a chance to keep winning, we have played some good ODI cricket over the last season. We're confident of moving in the right direction. Plenty of world-class players on show, should be a good series.' Eoin Morgan - 'Looks like a good wicket, could be a bit tacky, hopefully, we will restrict them to a low score. Nice to have the senior players from the World Cup group back. The wind shouldn't be a factor, we just need to play our game. They are a difficult side to beat, we should be at our best to beat them.'

Watch: Jofra Archer dismisses David Warner with an absolute jaffa! 

England and Australian players will be available for selection for Kolkata Knight Riders’ (KKR) first match in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a>, franchise CEO Venky Mysore has said.&nbsp;

KKR start their IPL 2020 campaign on September 23 and England and Australian players are set to arrive in the UAE on September 17 and even if they undergo six-day quarantine period as per BCCI SOP, they will be available to participate in KKR’s season opener.&nbsp;

The English and Australian players are set to be flown into the UAE on a chartered flight and as per many, it won’t be breach of the bio-secure bubble.&nbsp;

"While they are still negotiating with the authorities, we are reconciled to the fact that we may have to quarantine our three players," ESPNcricinfo quoted Mysore as saying.

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>

"They arrive on September 17, but our first game is on September 23, by which time they would've finished their [concessional six-day] quarantine. So it's worked out well, and it's good for the tournament," he added.

KKR have three players in their squad who are participating in the ongoing England vs Australia limited-overs series – Eoin Morgan, Tom Banton and Pat Cummins.&nbsp;

"What we did was put a plan together and shared it with the medical team at the IPL. We told them, 'they're in a bio-secure bubble in the UK," Mysore said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-dawid-malan-to-replace-suresh-raina-csk-ceo-clears-the-air-326804" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Dawid Malan to replace Suresh Raina? CSK CEO clears the air</a>

"What if we brought them on a sanitised charter flight and we took care of all the elements of immigration, testing, contactless stuff and everything to allow them to come right into a bubble here?' To give credit to IPL, they took it very constructively and they have a written Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for that, which says if you're coming from a bubble to another bubble, you don't need the mandatory quarantine period," he added.

Indian Premier League 2020 is set to commence from September 19 with the final scheduled for November 10 in the UAE. 
&nbsp;

England and Australian players will be available for selection for Kolkata Knight Riders’ (KKR) first match in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, franchise CEO Venky Mysore has said.

England and Australian players will be available for selection for Kolkata Knight Riders’ (KKR) first match in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, franchise CEO Venky Mysore has said. KKR start their IPL 2020 campaign on September 23 and England and Australian players are set to arrive in the UAE on September 17 and even if they undergo six-day quarantine period as per BCCI SOP, they will be available to participate in KKR’s season opener. The English and Australian players are set to be flown into the UAE on a chartered flight and as per many, it won’t be breach of the bio-secure bubble. "While they are still negotiating with the authorities, we are reconciled to the fact that we may have to quarantine our three players," ESPNcricinfo quoted Mysore as saying. IN PICS | IPL 2020: Predicting MVPs from each franchise "They arrive on September 17, but our first game is on September 23, by which time they would've finished their [concessional six-day] quarantine. So it's worked out well, and it's good for the tournament," he added. KKR have three players in their squad who are participating in the ongoing England vs Australia limited-overs series – Eoin Morgan, Tom Banton and Pat Cummins. "What we did was put a plan together and shared it with the medical team at the IPL. We told them, 'they're in a bio-secure bubble in the UK," Mysore said. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Dawid Malan to replace Suresh Raina? CSK CEO clears the air "What if we brought them on a sanitised charter flight and we took care of all the elements of immigration, testing, contactless stuff and everything to allow them to come right into a bubble here?' To give credit to IPL, they took it very constructively and they have a written Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for that, which says if you're coming from a bubble to another bubble, you don't need the mandatory quarantine period," he added. Indian Premier League 2020 is set to commence from September 19 with the final scheduled for November 10 in the UAE.

IPL 2020: England, Australia players to be available for KKR from first match, says CEO Venky Mysore

IPL 2020: Predicting MVPs from each franchise

England and Australia are set to kickstart the three-match ODI series with the opener to be played on Friday at the Emirates Old Trafford in Manchester. England won the T20I series 2-1 after winning the first two matches but it was Australia who claimed the top spot in ICC T20I Rankings after clinching the final match of the series.

Two best white-ball sides going against each other in the ODI series is expected to be nothing short of a feast for cricket fans. While Australian captain Aaron Finch was clear that England are the ‘benchmark’ when it comes to limited-overs cricket, the swashbuckling batsman would know how dangerous his side is when everyone is on song.

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2020-updated-squad-list-of-all-the-franchises-retained-and-bought-players-326654" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Updated squad list of all the franchises; retained and bought players</a>

Not many changes are expected in both the playing XIs with Marnus Labuschagne likely to come into the Australian playing XI whereas the now fit Jason Roy is expected to take up a spot in England XI.&nbsp;

After constant cricket, the Manchester pitch is expected to be on the slower side but the team batting first would definitely look to post a target of more than 300 runs. Spinners are expected to dominate the proceedings.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-champions-england-still-the-benchmark-in-odis-australian-captain-aaron-finch-326679" hreflang="en">World champions England still the benchmark in ODIs: Australian captain Aaron Finch</a>

<h2>When will the England vs Australia 1st ODI begin?</h2>

The England vs Australia 1st ODI will begin at 05:30 PM IST on September 11. The toss will take place at 05:00 PM IST.

<h2>Where will the England vs Australia 1st ODI be played?</h2>

The England vs Australia 1st ODI match will be held at Emirates Old Trafford in Manchester.

<h2>Which channel will telecast the England vs Australia 1st ODI?</h2>

The England vs Australia 1st ODI will have a live telecast on Sony SIX and Sony Six HD in India

<h2>How to watch the live streaming of England vs Australia 1st ODI?</h2>

The live streaming of England vs Australia 1st ODI will be available on Sony’s streaming platform. &nbsp;&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

England and Australia are set to kickstart the three-match ODI series with the opener to be played on Friday at the Emirates Old Trafford in Manchester. England won the T20I series 2-1 after winning the first two matches but it was Australia who claimed the top spot in ICC T20I Rankings after clinching the final match of the series.

England and Australia are set to kickstart the three-match ODI series with the opener to be played on Friday at the Emirates Old Trafford in Manchester. England won the T20I series 2-1 after winning the first two matches but it was Australia who claimed the top spot in ICC T20I Rankings after clinching the final match of the series. Two best white-ball sides going against each other in the ODI series is expected to be nothing short of a feast for cricket fans. While Australian captain Aaron Finch was clear that England are the ‘benchmark’ when it comes to limited-overs cricket, the swashbuckling batsman would know how dangerous his side is when everyone is on song. IN PICS | IPL 2020: Updated squad list of all the franchises; retained and bought players Not many changes are expected in both the playing XIs with Marnus Labuschagne likely to come into the Australian playing XI whereas the now fit Jason Roy is expected to take up a spot in England XI. After constant cricket, the Manchester pitch is expected to be on the slower side but the team batting first would definitely look to post a target of more than 300 runs. Spinners are expected to dominate the proceedings. ALSO READ: World champions England still the benchmark in ODIs: Australian captain Aaron Finch When will the England vs Australia 1st ODI begin? The England vs Australia 1st ODI will begin at 05:30 PM IST on September 11. The toss will take place at 05:00 PM IST. Where will the England vs Australia 1st ODI be played? The England vs Australia 1st ODI match will be held at Emirates Old Trafford in Manchester. Which channel will telecast the England vs Australia 1st ODI? The England vs Australia 1st ODI will have a live telecast on Sony SIX and Sony Six HD in India How to watch the live streaming of England vs Australia 1st ODI? The live streaming of England vs Australia 1st ODI will be available on Sony’s streaming platform.

ENG vs AUS, 1st ODI Live Streaming: When and where to watch England vs Australia match?

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) were dealt a huge blow when the highest run-scorer of the franchise, Suresh Raina opted out of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a> due to ‘personal reasons’. Since then Raina has hinted he wouldn’t mind coming back to the Super Kings camp and take part in IPL 2020 but latest reports suggest CSK are looking at world number one T20I batsman Dawid Malan as a replacement for Raina.&nbsp;

While Malan has witnessed a splendid rise in T20I cricket and has staggering statistics in the shortest format of the game, Super Kings are packed when it comes to foreign players. Chennai Super Kings CEO Kasi Viswanathan on Friday dismissed all the reports of Malan being looked as Raina’s replacement as he said foreign quota is already full in the squad.

When asked if there is any injury issue with any foreign players which could make them opt out of the tournament, the CSK CEO said there aren’t such issues in the squad.

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2020-updated-squad-list-of-all-the-franchises-retained-and-bought-players-326654" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Updated squad list of all the franchises; retained and bought players</a>

"This is news to me as well because our quota of foreign players is already full. So I don't know how we can have another foreigner in the squad," CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan told ANI.

Meanwhile, CSK seamer Deepak Chahar is set to start training from Friday after testing negative for twice and completing his self-isolation period. CSK and the BCCI have given all the clearance to Deepak and he is all set to start training from Friday.

"Deepak has all the necessary clearance from the CSK and BCCI side and will start training from today," he said

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2020-from-raina-to-malinga-top-players-who-have-pulled-out-of-the-tournament-326040" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: From Raina to Malinga - Top players who have pulled out of the tournament</a>

CSK were the last team to start training for IPL 2020 in the UAE as 13 members including two players tested positive for COVID-19. The entire contingent had to quarantine themselves in what was an extended period for them.&nbsp;

The 13th edition of the league will be played from September 19 to November 10, across three venues in the UAE -- Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Dubai. 
<o:p></o:p>

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) were dealt a huge blow when the highest run-scorer of the franchise, Suresh Raina opted out of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 due to ‘personal reasons’.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) were dealt a huge blow when the highest run-scorer of the franchise, Suresh Raina opted out of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 due to ‘personal reasons’. Since then Raina has hinted he wouldn’t mind coming back to the Super Kings camp and take part in IPL 2020 but latest reports suggest CSK are looking at world number one T20I batsman Dawid Malan as a replacement for Raina. While Malan has witnessed a splendid rise in T20I cricket and has staggering statistics in the shortest format of the game, Super Kings are packed when it comes to foreign players. Chennai Super Kings CEO Kasi Viswanathan on Friday dismissed all the reports of Malan being looked as Raina’s replacement as he said foreign quota is already full in the squad. When asked if there is any injury issue with any foreign players which could make them opt out of the tournament, the CSK CEO said there aren’t such issues in the squad. IN PICS | IPL 2020: Updated squad list of all the franchises; retained and bought players "This is news to me as well because our quota of foreign players is already full. So I don't know how we can have another foreigner in the squad," CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan told ANI. Meanwhile, CSK seamer Deepak Chahar is set to start training from Friday after testing negative for twice and completing his self-isolation period. CSK and the BCCI have given all the clearance to Deepak and he is all set to start training from Friday. "Deepak has all the necessary clearance from the CSK and BCCI side and will start training from today," he said IN PICS | IPL 2020: From Raina to Malinga - Top players who have pulled out of the tournament CSK were the last team to start training for IPL 2020 in the UAE as 13 members including two players tested positive for COVID-19. The entire contingent had to quarantine themselves in what was an extended period for them. The 13th edition of the league will be played from September 19 to November 10, across three venues in the UAE -- Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Dubai.

IPL 2020: Dawid Malan to replace Suresh Raina? CSK CEO clears the air

Newcastle United said on Wednesday a Saudi-backed bid to takeover the club has now been rejected by the Premier League.

The investment group, which included the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), PCP Capital Partners and billionaire brothers David and Simon Reuben, said they had withdrawn their bid for the club in July after waiting months for the English top-flight's approval.

A&nbsp;£300 million ($391 million) deal to buy the side from unpopular owner Mike Ashley had been agreed in April.

However, the bid had attracted scrutiny due to the piracy of sports broadcast rights, including Premier League matches, in Saudi and the state's human rights record.

Amanda Staveley of PCP Capital Partners said when the bid was withdrawn that the Premier League wanted the Saudi state to become a director of the club as the PIF was not deemed to be an arm of the government.

"Newcastle United can confirm that the Premier League has rejected a takeover bid made by PCP Capital Partners, the Reuben Brothers and the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia (PIF) based on its Owners and Directors test," Newcastle said in a statement.

"This conclusion has been reached despite the club providing the Premier League with overwhelming evidence and legal opinions that PIF is independent and autonomous of the Saudi Arabian government.

"The club and its owners do not accept that Premier League chief executive Richard Masters and the Premier League have acted appropriately in relation to this matter and will be considering all relevant options available to them."

Masters said in a letter to Newcastle Central MP Chi Onwurah last month that Staveley's consortium had refused the opportunity to take the issue over the status of the PIF to independent arbitration.

Supporters have long campaigned for Ashley to sell the club as they have been disillusioned with his 13-year spell as owner, which has included two relegations from the Premier League.

"Mike Ashley understands fans' frustrations and would like to reassure them that he has been fully committed to ensuring this takeover process reached completion as he felt it was in the best interests of the club," added the Newcastle statement.

"Mike continues to be fully supportive to (manager) Steve Bruce, the players and all the staff and wishes them well for the upcoming season."

Premier League chief executive Richard Masters said on Wednesday it will consider adapting its criteria for potential buyers after the failed takeover.

"We are going to look again at the owners' and directors' test and some of the issues and specifics of it," he told the BBC.

"It's time to have another look at it in light of recent events."

Newcastle begin the new Premier League season away to West Ham on Saturday.

Newcastle United said on Wednesday a Saudi-backed bid to takeover the club has now been rejected by the Premier League. The investment group, which included the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), PCP Capital Partners and billionaire brothers David and Simon Reuben, said they had withdrawn their bid for the club in July after waiting months for the English top-flight's approval.

Newcastle United said on Wednesday a Saudi-backed bid to takeover the club has now been rejected by the Premier League. The investment group, which included the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), PCP Capital Partners and billionaire brothers David and Simon Reuben, said they had withdrawn their bid for the club in July after waiting months for the English top-flight's approval. A £300 million ($391 million) deal to buy the side from unpopular owner Mike Ashley had been agreed in April. However, the bid had attracted scrutiny due to the piracy of sports broadcast rights, including Premier League matches, in Saudi and the state's human rights record. Amanda Staveley of PCP Capital Partners said when the bid was withdrawn that the Premier League wanted the Saudi state to become a director of the club as the PIF was not deemed to be an arm of the government. "Newcastle United can confirm that the Premier League has rejected a takeover bid made by PCP Capital Partners, the Reuben Brothers and the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia (PIF) based on its Owners and Directors test," Newcastle said in a statement. "This conclusion has been reached despite the club providing the Premier League with overwhelming evidence and legal opinions that PIF is independent and autonomous of the Saudi Arabian government. "The club and its owners do not accept that Premier League chief executive Richard Masters and the Premier League have acted appropriately in relation to this matter and will be considering all relevant options available to them." Masters said in a letter to Newcastle Central MP Chi Onwurah last month that Staveley's consortium had refused the opportunity to take the issue over the status of the PIF to independent arbitration. Supporters have long campaigned for Ashley to sell the club as they have been disillusioned with his 13-year spell as owner, which has included two relegations from the Premier League. "Mike Ashley understands fans' frustrations and would like to reassure them that he has been fully committed to ensuring this takeover process reached completion as he felt it was in the best interests of the club," added the Newcastle statement. "Mike continues to be fully supportive to (manager) Steve Bruce, the players and all the staff and wishes them well for the upcoming season." Premier League chief executive Richard Masters said on Wednesday it will consider adapting its criteria for potential buyers after the failed takeover. "We are going to look again at the owners' and directors' test and some of the issues and specifics of it," he told the BBC. "It's time to have another look at it in light of recent events." Newcastle begin the new Premier League season away to West Ham on Saturday.

Saudi-backed takeover of Newcastle rejected by the Premier League

Just five months after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> clubs consulted their players about taking a 30 percent wage cut, the English top-flight is again blowing Europe's other top leagues out the water when it comes to splashing the cash.

A return to the routine spending of tens of millions of pounds on players jars with the bleak forecasts often presented by the clubs themselves as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.

At the height of the pandemic, Liverpool and Tottenham planned to&nbsp;use government money to pay non-playing staff, only to back down in the face of public anger, while Arsenal announced proposals to cut 55 jobs just last month.

If Premier League clubs require a reminder that Covid-19 remains a threat, they need only look to the empty stands that will accompany the start of the new season from Saturday.

Gate receipts may only account for 13 percent of the Premier League's revenue, according to figures from UEFA's latest benchmarking report, but the other major streams of income such as television rights and commercial sponsorships are also not immune to the crisis.

A rebate worth a reported £330 million ($429 million, 363 million euros) was due to domestic and international broadcasters because the 2019/20 season was not completed on time after a three-month stoppage to the campaign.

Last week the Premier League announced its deal with Chinese streaming platform PPTV, understood to be worth about $700 million, had been cancelled, with political tensions between Britain and China potentially making a new contract difficult to negotiate.

European Club Association chairman Andrea Agnelli said on Tuesday that rebates owed to Champions League and Europa League broadcasters totalled 575 million euros, warning football was in "crisis-management" mode.

Agnelli, who is also the chairman of Italian champions Juventus, said the overall value of the transfer market could plummet by up to one third.

<h2>- Big-spending Chelsea -</h2>

Yet no such downturn has been noticeable among Premier League clubs.

Chelsea have led the way with a £200 million rebuild, signing Kai Havertz, Timo Werner, Hakim Ziyech and Ben Chilwell.

Manchester City have spent more than £60 million on two players in Nathan Ake and Ferran Torres who will struggle to start in Pep Guardiola's strongest XI, while Donny van de Beek could end up costing Manchester United&nbsp;around £40 million.&nbsp;

Even more striking are the sums spent by non-Champions League clubs.

Wolves broke their transfer record on a 40-million-euro capture, Portuguese teenager Fabio Silva, who had scored three goals and started one league match for Porto.

After spells together at Real Madrid and Bayern Munich, James Rodriguez and Carlo Ancelotti have been reunited at Everton, who have also signed midfielders Allan and Abdoulaye Doucoure. The outlay for the three players is around £64 million.&nbsp;

Leeds announced their return to the Premier League by signing Spanish international Rodrigo and Germany's Robin Koch.&nbsp;

Newcastle, Crystal Palace and Leicester are also among those to have spent around £20 million on a single signing.

By contrast, even giants across Europe such as Real Madrid, Barcelona and Juventus are selling and seeking to cut wage costs.

The Premier League's lavish spending is due to a number of factors. Chelsea are making up for lost time after a transfer ban last summer, while they are also among the clubs seeking to make the most of a buyer's market.

For others such as Everton, the relaxation of financial fair play rules gives wealthy owners more opportunity to back their clubs.

The Premier League's TV deals worth around £3 billion a season are an even bigger economic advantage at a time when matchday and commercial revenue are shrinking.

But the rebates show how hundreds of millions can be wiped out, with the coronavirus threatening more disruption in the coming season.

Should a lack of caution in the transfer window come back to hurt Premier League clubs, there will be little sympathy shown from across the continent.

Just five months after Premier League clubs consulted their players about taking a 30 percent wage cut, the English top-flight is again blowing Europe's other top leagues out the water when it comes to splashing the cash.

Just five months after Premier League clubs consulted their players about taking a 30 percent wage cut, the English top-flight is again blowing Europe's other top leagues out the water when it comes to splashing the cash. A return to the routine spending of tens of millions of pounds on players jars with the bleak forecasts often presented by the clubs themselves as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. At the height of the pandemic, Liverpool and Tottenham planned to use government money to pay non-playing staff, only to back down in the face of public anger, while Arsenal announced proposals to cut 55 jobs just last month. If Premier League clubs require a reminder that Covid-19 remains a threat, they need only look to the empty stands that will accompany the start of the new season from Saturday. Gate receipts may only account for 13 percent of the Premier League's revenue, according to figures from UEFA's latest benchmarking report, but the other major streams of income such as television rights and commercial sponsorships are also not immune to the crisis. A rebate worth a reported £330 million ($429 million, 363 million euros) was due to domestic and international broadcasters because the 2019/20 season was not completed on time after a three-month stoppage to the campaign. Last week the Premier League announced its deal with Chinese streaming platform PPTV, understood to be worth about $700 million, had been cancelled, with political tensions between Britain and China potentially making a new contract difficult to negotiate. European Club Association chairman Andrea Agnelli said on Tuesday that rebates owed to Champions League and Europa League broadcasters totalled 575 million euros, warning football was in "crisis-management" mode. Agnelli, who is also the chairman of Italian champions Juventus, said the overall value of the transfer market could plummet by up to one third. - Big-spending Chelsea - Yet no such downturn has been noticeable among Premier League clubs. Chelsea have led the way with a £200 million rebuild, signing Kai Havertz, Timo Werner, Hakim Ziyech and Ben Chilwell. Manchester City have spent more than £60 million on two players in Nathan Ake and Ferran Torres who will struggle to start in Pep Guardiola's strongest XI, while Donny van de Beek could end up costing Manchester United around £40 million. Even more striking are the sums spent by non-Champions League clubs. Wolves broke their transfer record on a 40-million-euro capture, Portuguese teenager Fabio Silva, who had scored three goals and started one league match for Porto. After spells together at Real Madrid and Bayern Munich, James Rodriguez and Carlo Ancelotti have been reunited at Everton, who have also signed midfielders Allan and Abdoulaye Doucoure. The outlay for the three players is around £64 million. Leeds announced their return to the Premier League by signing Spanish international Rodrigo and Germany's Robin Koch. Newcastle, Crystal Palace and Leicester are also among those to have spent around £20 million on a single signing. By contrast, even giants across Europe such as Real Madrid, Barcelona and Juventus are selling and seeking to cut wage costs. The Premier League's lavish spending is due to a number of factors. Chelsea are making up for lost time after a transfer ban last summer, while they are also among the clubs seeking to make the most of a buyer's market. For others such as Everton, the relaxation of financial fair play rules gives wealthy owners more opportunity to back their clubs. The Premier League's TV deals worth around £3 billion a season are an even bigger economic advantage at a time when matchday and commercial revenue are shrinking. But the rebates show how hundreds of millions can be wiped out, with the coronavirus threatening more disruption in the coming season. Should a lack of caution in the transfer window come back to hurt Premier League clubs, there will be little sympathy shown from across the continent.

Premier League clubs forget coronavirus crisis in transfer splurge

Sergio Perez was given only a few hours notice that he was to be replaced at Racing Point next year by Sebastian Vettel, the Mexican driver said on Thursday.

Perez, who had a contract for 2021 and believed the team wanted him to stay, learned his fate during a phone call from team owner Lawrence Stroll on Wednesday, shortly before his departure was confirmed.&nbsp;

The Canadian billionaire told him the team was going "in another direction".

"I didn't expect that. It is how it is," Perez told a news conference on Thursday ahead of this weekend’s Tuscan Grand Prix.

Until then, said Perez, "nobody told me anything".

Perez announced his exit, after seven years with the Silverstone-based team, on social media later Wednesday and Vettel was confirmed as joining on a multi-year contract starting in 2021, with the re-branding of the team as Aston Martin, on Thursday morning.

"Nobody told me anything, but I already knew and figured out a couple of things," said Perez.&nbsp;

"Final confirmation came yesterday. It's fine. Seven years with the team -- I know everything has a beginning and also an end.&nbsp;

"We still have nine races to make each other proud."

Only four weeks ago at the Spanish Grand Prix, Perez quashed speculation that he was to be replaced by four-time champion Vettel.&nbsp;

He felt it was only a "matter of time" before the team confirmed in public the feedback he was being given about him continuing with them in 2021.

"That was the feedback that I was getting, that the team wanted to keep me and so on," he explained. &nbsp;

"There were some discussions in the background, about contracts and so on, that I'm not willing to disclose because I think those things should remain between the team and myself.

"There were a couple of things in the contract that we went through…. &nbsp;In the end, they officially told me yesterday that I'm not continuing."

<h2>- 'I understand it' -</h2>

Perez signed a three-year agreement last season and had a contract for 2021, which together with the team's apparent desire to keep him persuaded him not to seek any alternatives.

He was reluctant to criticise Racing Point's handling of the situation too forcefully but suggested that he could have been given more clarity.

"I understand it. It's the negotiations going on," he said.&nbsp;

"They probably took longer than I thought… Probably, a bit more clarity would have helped regarding my future as well.

"Then I would have looked for a plan B, which probably wouldn't have changed anything."

Perez, who now has no seat for 2021, said he wants to stay in Formula One next year with a competitive team.

"I think everything is an option right now. My main target is to remain in F1. I feel that I'm still very young and hungry and want to carry on, but it has to be the right package.

"A package that really gives me the maximum motivation to give 100 per cent every single lap and also a long-term project, targeting 2022, because then I expect the rule change to play a major effect."&nbsp;

Sergio Perez was given only a few hours notice that he was to be replaced at Racing Point next year by Sebastian Vettel, the Mexican driver said on Thursday. Perez, who had a contract for 2021 and believed the team wanted him to stay, learned his fate during a phone call from team owner Lawrence Stroll on Wednesday, shortly before his departure was confirmed.

Sergio Perez was given only a few hours notice that he was to be replaced at Racing Point next year by Sebastian Vettel, the Mexican driver said on Thursday. Perez, who had a contract for 2021 and believed the team wanted him to stay, learned his fate during a phone call from team owner Lawrence Stroll on Wednesday, shortly before his departure was confirmed. The Canadian billionaire told him the team was going "in another direction". "I didn't expect that. It is how it is," Perez told a news conference on Thursday ahead of this weekend’s Tuscan Grand Prix. Until then, said Perez, "nobody told me anything". Perez announced his exit, after seven years with the Silverstone-based team, on social media later Wednesday and Vettel was confirmed as joining on a multi-year contract starting in 2021, with the re-branding of the team as Aston Martin, on Thursday morning. "Nobody told me anything, but I already knew and figured out a couple of things," said Perez. "Final confirmation came yesterday. It's fine. Seven years with the team -- I know everything has a beginning and also an end. "We still have nine races to make each other proud." Only four weeks ago at the Spanish Grand Prix, Perez quashed speculation that he was to be replaced by four-time champion Vettel. He felt it was only a "matter of time" before the team confirmed in public the feedback he was being given about him continuing with them in 2021. "That was the feedback that I was getting, that the team wanted to keep me and so on," he explained. "There were some discussions in the background, about contracts and so on, that I'm not willing to disclose because I think those things should remain between the team and myself. "There were a couple of things in the contract that we went through…. In the end, they officially told me yesterday that I'm not continuing." - 'I understand it' - Perez signed a three-year agreement last season and had a contract for 2021, which together with the team's apparent desire to keep him persuaded him not to seek any alternatives. He was reluctant to criticise Racing Point's handling of the situation too forcefully but suggested that he could have been given more clarity. "I understand it. It's the negotiations going on," he said. "They probably took longer than I thought… Probably, a bit more clarity would have helped regarding my future as well. "Then I would have looked for a plan B, which probably wouldn't have changed anything." Perez, who now has no seat for 2021, said he wants to stay in Formula One next year with a competitive team. "I think everything is an option right now. My main target is to remain in F1. I feel that I'm still very young and hungry and want to carry on, but it has to be the right package. "A package that really gives me the maximum motivation to give 100 per cent every single lap and also a long-term project, targeting 2022, because then I expect the rule change to play a major effect."

'I didn't expect that', says axed Racing Point driver Perez

Aaron Finch said that Australia are still searching for their “best formula” in ODI cricket while adding that world champions England are still the benchmarks when it comes to white-ball cricket. &nbsp;

After three-match T20I series, England and Australia will lock horns in an ODI series consisting of three matches starting in Manchester. England won the T20I series 2-1.

The ODI match at Old Trafford will be the first 50-over encounter between the two sides since England defeated the Aussies in 2019 World Cup semi-final and went on to lift the trophy.

Finch said that Australia have made good progress in ODI cricket but emphasized that there is still room for improvement.

"Over the last couple of years we're still searching for our best formula and our best 11 players day in, day out in the one-day format," Finch said in a virtual press conference on Thursday.

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2020-updated-squad-list-of-all-the-franchises-retained-and-bought-players-326654" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Updated squad list of all the franchises; retained and bought players</a>&nbsp;

"I don't think there's been any secret to that. There's been great opportunity that we probably haven't nailed in this format. We've played some really good cricket in patches and some indifferent cricket in other patches."

Australia are fifth in the global ODI rankings but are the number one side in T20 cricket.

"I think it's just finding a consistent selection formula," he said. "We did a lot of work in the Covid break on how we think we can structure our one-day cricket and where we think we need to get to for that 2023 World Cup.

"It's about getting as much information all the time to give us the best chance of winning consistently. One-day cricket is a hard game, especially away from home."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-more-than-20000-covid-19-tests-planned-during-the-tournament-326635" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: More than 20,000 COVID-19 tests planned during the tournament</a>

But he warned England, ranked number one in ODIs, had enviable firepower with bat and ball.

"They keep coming at you," he said. "There's no part in a 20-over game or a 50-over game that you can take your foot off the gas because there will be someone there to take the opportunity away from you."

"I think their form in white-ball cricket has been exceptional in both formats over the last few years," he added. "Obviously their one-day game has probably been the benchmark since probably 2016 so it's going to be a great challenge."

(From AFP inputs)

Aaron Finch said that Australia are still searching for their “best formula” in ODI cricket while adding that world champions England are still the benchmarks when it comes to white-ball cricket.

Aaron Finch said that Australia are still searching for their “best formula” in ODI cricket while adding that world champions England are still the benchmarks when it comes to white-ball cricket. After three-match T20I series, England and Australia will lock horns in an ODI series consisting of three matches starting in Manchester. England won the T20I series 2-1. The ODI match at Old Trafford will be the first 50-over encounter between the two sides since England defeated the Aussies in 2019 World Cup semi-final and went on to lift the trophy. Finch said that Australia have made good progress in ODI cricket but emphasized that there is still room for improvement. "Over the last couple of years we're still searching for our best formula and our best 11 players day in, day out in the one-day format," Finch said in a virtual press conference on Thursday. IN PICS | IPL 2020: Updated squad list of all the franchises; retained and bought players "I don't think there's been any secret to that. There's been great opportunity that we probably haven't nailed in this format. We've played some really good cricket in patches and some indifferent cricket in other patches." Australia are fifth in the global ODI rankings but are the number one side in T20 cricket. "I think it's just finding a consistent selection formula," he said. "We did a lot of work in the Covid break on how we think we can structure our one-day cricket and where we think we need to get to for that 2023 World Cup. "It's about getting as much information all the time to give us the best chance of winning consistently. One-day cricket is a hard game, especially away from home." ALSO READ: IPL 2020: More than 20,000 COVID-19 tests planned during the tournament But he warned England, ranked number one in ODIs, had enviable firepower with bat and ball. "They keep coming at you," he said. "There's no part in a 20-over game or a 50-over game that you can take your foot off the gas because there will be someone there to take the opportunity away from you." "I think their form in white-ball cricket has been exceptional in both formats over the last few years," he added. "Obviously their one-day game has probably been the benchmark since probably 2016 so it's going to be a great challenge." (From AFP inputs)

World champions England still the benchmark in ODIs: Australian captain Aaron Finch

IPL 2020: Updated squad list of all the franchises; retained and bought players

More than 20,000 COVID-19 tests will be carried out during the much-awaited <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a>, tournaments medical partner said on Thursday with the world’s richest cricket league set to start on September 19 in the UAE.

Most of the 200 players from eight franchises arrived in the UAE last month and spent six days in isolation in their hotel rooms after extensive test before and after arriving. The COVID-19 tests were carried upon their arrival and then against two days later. Following a final test two days after, the players were moved in a bio-secure bubble.

The rules, as per BCCI’s SOP, apply for support staff, umpires, officials from the BCCI and others involved in IPL 2020.

VPS healthcare, IPL 2020’s Abu Dhabi-based official medical partner on Wednesday said that as many as 3,500 tests have been conducted so far.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-anthem-delhi-based-rapper-accuses-organisers-of-plagiarising-ipl-2020-anthem-326522" hreflang="en">Delhi-based rapper accuses organisers of plagiarising IPL 2020 anthem</a>

"During the course of the tournament, we will be conducting over 20,000 tests," a spokesman told AFP.

"The movement of the players and other officials of the IPL are strictly restricted between the hotel and the stadium," the spokesman said.

The organisers had a shaky start after the teams landed in the UAE in August as two players and 11 officials from the Chennai Super Kings tested positive for the dreaded virus. Two Super Kings players in Suresh Raina and Harbhajan Singh have opted out of the tournament due to ‘personal reasons’.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-csk-paceman-deepak-chahar-tests-negative-for-covid-19-twice-returns-to-team-326510" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: CSK paceman Deepak Chahar tests negative for COVID-19 twice; returns to team</a>

Sri Lanka's Lasith Malinga (Mumbai Indians), Jason Roy (Delhi Capitals) of England also pulled out while Australian quick Kane Richardson withdrew for the birth of his first child.

The tournament kicks off with Chennai Super Kings taking on defending champions Mumbai Indians in Abu Dhabi. In all, 24 matches will be held in Dubai, 20 in Abu Dhabi and 12 in Sharjah.

More than 20,000 COVID-19 tests will be carried out during the much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, tournaments medical partner said on Thursday with the world’s richest cricket league set to start on September 19 in the UAE.

More than 20,000 COVID-19 tests will be carried out during the much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, tournaments medical partner said on Thursday with the world’s richest cricket league set to start on September 19 in the UAE. Most of the 200 players from eight franchises arrived in the UAE last month and spent six days in isolation in their hotel rooms after extensive test before and after arriving. The COVID-19 tests were carried upon their arrival and then against two days later. Following a final test two days after, the players were moved in a bio-secure bubble. The rules, as per BCCI’s SOP, apply for support staff, umpires, officials from the BCCI and others involved in IPL 2020. VPS healthcare, IPL 2020’s Abu Dhabi-based official medical partner on Wednesday said that as many as 3,500 tests have been conducted so far. ALSO READ: Delhi-based rapper accuses organisers of plagiarising IPL 2020 anthem "During the course of the tournament, we will be conducting over 20,000 tests," a spokesman told AFP. "The movement of the players and other officials of the IPL are strictly restricted between the hotel and the stadium," the spokesman said. The organisers had a shaky start after the teams landed in the UAE in August as two players and 11 officials from the Chennai Super Kings tested positive for the dreaded virus. Two Super Kings players in Suresh Raina and Harbhajan Singh have opted out of the tournament due to ‘personal reasons’. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: CSK paceman Deepak Chahar tests negative for COVID-19 twice; returns to team Sri Lanka's Lasith Malinga (Mumbai Indians), Jason Roy (Delhi Capitals) of England also pulled out while Australian quick Kane Richardson withdrew for the birth of his first child. The tournament kicks off with Chennai Super Kings taking on defending champions Mumbai Indians in Abu Dhabi. In all, 24 matches will be held in Dubai, 20 in Abu Dhabi and 12 in Sharjah.

IPL 2020: More than 20,000 COVID-19 tests planned during the tournament

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