Manchester United captain Harry Maguire was on Tuesday given a 21 month and 10 day suspended prison sentence after being found guilty of assaulting a police officer, bribery and other charges by a court in Greece.

The England international, who announced he would appeal the verdict, was arrested late last Thursday after a fight at a nightclub in Mykonos.

He was charged with assault, bodily harm, verbal abuse and attempted bribery, all of which he denied.

Maguire, who did not attend his trial on the Greek island of Syros, in a statement declared: "Following the hearing today, I have instructed my legal team with immediate effect to inform the courts we will be appealing.

"I remain strong and confident regarding our innocence in this matter - if anything myself, family and friends are the victims."

Manchester United backed their player.

"Harry Maguire pleaded not guilty to all of the misdemeanour charges made against him and he continues to strongly assert his innocence," the club said.

The statement from Old Trafford went on to spell out grounds for an appeal.

"It should be noted that the prosecution confirmed the charges and provided their evidence late on the day before the trial, giving the defence team minimal time to digest them and prepare.

"A request for the case to be adjourned was subsequently denied. On this basis, along with the substantial body of evidence refuting the charges, Harry Maguire's legal team will now appeal the verdict, to allow a full and fair hearing at a later date."

The sentence is suspended for three years.

According to media reports the nightclub fight started over claims his sister Daisy was injected with what the defence claimed was a suspected drug.

Maguire was arrested along with his brother and a friend after being driven from the club to a police station, where there was an altercation with the prosecution claiming Maguire offered money to be released.

The 27-year-old defender, who has 26 England caps, spent two nights in police custody before flying home at the weekend.

&nbsp;

<h2>- Withdrawn from England squad -</h2>

&nbsp;

Maguire's brother Joe was found guilty of repeated bodily harm, violence against public employees and attempted bribery.

The friend, Christopher Sharman was found guilty of insult, repeated bodily harm and violence against public employees.

Both were sentenced to 13 months in prison, suspended for three years.

As his fate was being decided in Greece, Maguire was simultaneously being named by manager Gareth Southgate in England's Nations League squad, only to be removed hours later.

"In light of this evening's developments, I can confirm I have withdrawn Harry Maguire from the England squad for the matches against Iceland and Denmark," Southgate told the Football Association's website.

Earlier in the day the England boss explained he had stood by him after speaking to Maguire, the world's most expensive defender following his £80 million ($105 million) move from Leicester to United last year.

"It is clearly a decision that is not straightforward," Southgate told a press conference.

"I have spoken with Harry. I have the insight to the story which is very different to what is being recorded. You can only make decisions on facts you are aware of.&nbsp;

"If facts or information change I will have to review that decision, but I have a fantastic relationship with the boy -- he has been a fantastic character for us. He has my support at this moment."&nbsp;

Later Tuesday Daisy Maguire posted on Instagram: "Three things cannot be long hidden: the sun; the moon, and the truth - Buddha."

While Maguire is now out of immediate involvement on the international scene his club United are due back in training on September 2, with no pre-season

Manchester United captain Harry Maguire was on Tuesday given a 21 month and 10 day suspended prison sentence after being found guilty of assaulting a police officer, bribery and other charges by a court in Greece.

Manchester United captain Harry Maguire was on Tuesday given a 21 month and 10 day suspended prison sentence after being found guilty of assaulting a police officer, bribery and other charges by a court in Greece. The England international, who announced he would appeal the verdict, was arrested late last Thursday after a fight at a nightclub in Mykonos. He was charged with assault, bodily harm, verbal abuse and attempted bribery, all of which he denied. Maguire, who did not attend his trial on the Greek island of Syros, in a statement declared: "Following the hearing today, I have instructed my legal team with immediate effect to inform the courts we will be appealing. "I remain strong and confident regarding our innocence in this matter - if anything myself, family and friends are the victims." Manchester United backed their player. "Harry Maguire pleaded not guilty to all of the misdemeanour charges made against him and he continues to strongly assert his innocence," the club said. The statement from Old Trafford went on to spell out grounds for an appeal. "It should be noted that the prosecution confirmed the charges and provided their evidence late on the day before the trial, giving the defence team minimal time to digest them and prepare. "A request for the case to be adjourned was subsequently denied. On this basis, along with the substantial body of evidence refuting the charges, Harry Maguire's legal team will now appeal the verdict, to allow a full and fair hearing at a later date." The sentence is suspended for three years. According to media reports the nightclub fight started over claims his sister Daisy was injected with what the defence claimed was a suspected drug. Maguire was arrested along with his brother and a friend after being driven from the club to a police station, where there was an altercation with the prosecution claiming Maguire offered money to be released. The 27-year-old defender, who has 26 England caps, spent two nights in police custody before flying home at the weekend. - Withdrawn from England squad - Maguire's brother Joe was found guilty of repeated bodily harm, violence against public employees and attempted bribery. The friend, Christopher Sharman was found guilty of insult, repeated bodily harm and violence against public employees. Both were sentenced to 13 months in prison, suspended for three years. As his fate was being decided in Greece, Maguire was simultaneously being named by manager Gareth Southgate in England's Nations League squad, only to be removed hours later. "In light of this evening's developments, I can confirm I have withdrawn Harry Maguire from the England squad for the matches against Iceland and Denmark," Southgate told the Football Association's website. Earlier in the day the England boss explained he had stood by him after speaking to Maguire, the world's most expensive defender following his £80 million ($105 million) move from Leicester to United last year. "It is clearly a decision that is not straightforward," Southgate told a press conference. "I have spoken with Harry. I have the insight to the story which is very different to what is being recorded. You can only make decisions on facts you are aware of. "If facts or information change I will have to review that decision, but I have a fantastic relationship with the boy -- he has been a fantastic character for us. He has my support at this moment." Later Tuesday Daisy Maguire posted on Instagram: "Three things cannot be long hidden: the sun; the moon, and the truth - Buddha." While Maguire is now out of immediate involvement on the international scene his club United are due back in training on September 2, with no pre-season

Man Utd captain Maguire gets suspended prison sentence on Greek charges

England's three-match Test series against Pakistan was blighted by poor weather but both sides will take positives from an absorbing contest which the home side won 1-0.

AFP Sport looks at some of the talking points from a hard-fought campaign played behind closed doors.

<h2>England's top-order young guns</h2>

Zak Crawley's stunning 267 in the third Test at Southampton was a remarkable innings -- the Kent batsman's maiden Test century was also the 10th highest score by any England player.

Crawley, batting at number three, is the latest member of a youthful England top-order to score a Test hundred, following fellow 22-year-old Ollie Pope (135 not out against South Africa in January) and 24-year-old opener Dom Sibley (centuries against South Africa and West Indies).

England, used to being bailed out with the bat by their all-rounders and lower order, are searching for consistency from their frontline batsmen.

While their three fledgling top-order batsmen are still in the early stages of their international careers, there are signs they all understand the importance of building a score and have no qualms about being patient if that is what is required to establish a strong position for the team.

<h2>Flat pitches a problem for England</h2>

The England pace trio of James Anderson, Stuart Broad and Chris Woakes remains unrivalled in home conditions -- across six Tests this season, including the 2-1 series win over the West Indies, they have taken 62 wickets between them at a combined average of just 18 apiece.

But their form has relegated express fast bowlers Jofra Archer and Mark Wood, who has played just the one Test this season, to peripheral roles.

Away from home and without the Dukes ball, England's quicks have found it much harder to take wickets on generally less responsive surfaces.

And there was a concerning preview of what could await England during their next scheduled series in India when, on a slow Ageas Bowl pitch offering little movement, they took just two Pakistan wickets in 56 overs on Monday.

One mitigating factor was that all-rounder and partnership-breaker Ben Stokes missed the last two Tests to be with his ill father in New Zealand.

During their 2016/17 and 2017/18 tours of India and Australia, England conceded more than 600 runs four times in 10 Tests and, with off-spinner Dom Bess little used this season, the doubts over the effectiveness of their attack on flatter pitches remain.

<h2>Pakistan progress</h2>

Even though England ended up winning the series, it is easy to forget just how close Pakistan came to a victory in the first Test at Old Trafford.

The tourists, who had not played international cricket for several months because of the coronavirus pandemic, were the better side for much of the time in Manchester until, having reduced England to 117-5 chasing a target of 277, they were undone by a sixth-wicket partnership of 139 between Jos Buttler and Woakes.

But even though this was Pakistan's first series defeat by England in a decade, there were plenty of highlights for the tourists, with opener Shan Masood making 156 in Manchester and pace trio Shaheen Afridi, Mohammad Abbas and Naseem Shah all impressing at different stages.

Determined wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan hit two successive fifties and starred behind the stumps throughout in difficult conditions for glovemen, with the ball often deviating significantly after passing the stumps.

England's three-match Test series against Pakistan was blighted by poor weather but both sides will take positives from an absorbing contest which the home side won 1-0.

England's three-match Test series against Pakistan was blighted by poor weather but both sides will take positives from an absorbing contest which the home side won 1-0. AFP Sport looks at some of the talking points from a hard-fought campaign played behind closed doors. England's top-order young guns Zak Crawley's stunning 267 in the third Test at Southampton was a remarkable innings -- the Kent batsman's maiden Test century was also the 10th highest score by any England player. Crawley, batting at number three, is the latest member of a youthful England top-order to score a Test hundred, following fellow 22-year-old Ollie Pope (135 not out against South Africa in January) and 24-year-old opener Dom Sibley (centuries against South Africa and West Indies). England, used to being bailed out with the bat by their all-rounders and lower order, are searching for consistency from their frontline batsmen. While their three fledgling top-order batsmen are still in the early stages of their international careers, there are signs they all understand the importance of building a score and have no qualms about being patient if that is what is required to establish a strong position for the team. Flat pitches a problem for England The England pace trio of James Anderson, Stuart Broad and Chris Woakes remains unrivalled in home conditions -- across six Tests this season, including the 2-1 series win over the West Indies, they have taken 62 wickets between them at a combined average of just 18 apiece. But their form has relegated express fast bowlers Jofra Archer and Mark Wood, who has played just the one Test this season, to peripheral roles. Away from home and without the Dukes ball, England's quicks have found it much harder to take wickets on generally less responsive surfaces. And there was a concerning preview of what could await England during their next scheduled series in India when, on a slow Ageas Bowl pitch offering little movement, they took just two Pakistan wickets in 56 overs on Monday. One mitigating factor was that all-rounder and partnership-breaker Ben Stokes missed the last two Tests to be with his ill father in New Zealand. During their 2016/17 and 2017/18 tours of India and Australia, England conceded more than 600 runs four times in 10 Tests and, with off-spinner Dom Bess little used this season, the doubts over the effectiveness of their attack on flatter pitches remain. Pakistan progress Even though England ended up winning the series, it is easy to forget just how close Pakistan came to a victory in the first Test at Old Trafford. The tourists, who had not played international cricket for several months because of the coronavirus pandemic, were the better side for much of the time in Manchester until, having reduced England to 117-5 chasing a target of 277, they were undone by a sixth-wicket partnership of 139 between Jos Buttler and Woakes. But even though this was Pakistan's first series defeat by England in a decade, there were plenty of highlights for the tourists, with opener Shan Masood making 156 in Manchester and pace trio Shaheen Afridi, Mohammad Abbas and Naseem Shah all impressing at different stages. Determined wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan hit two successive fifties and starred behind the stumps throughout in difficult conditions for glovemen, with the ball often deviating significantly after passing the stumps.

England v Pakistan: Three things we learned

Bowling greats Anil Kumble and Shane Warne welcomed James Anderson to the elite group of players who have taken 600 Test wickets as tributes to the England star poured in from around the cricketing world on Tuesday.

Anderson become the first fast bowler to reach the landmark when he had Pakistan's Azhar Ali caught by Joe Root on the final day of the third Test at Southampton.

He joins a trio of retired spinners -- Sri Lanka's Muttiah Muralitharan (800), Australia's Warne (708) and India's Kumble (619).

"Congratulations @jimmy9 on your 600 wickets! Massive effort from a great fast bowler. Welcome to the club," Kumble tweeted.

Former Australia leg-spinner Warne said it was a "proud moment" for the England bowler.

"It's an outstanding achievement from Jimmy Anderson, and his longevity, and he should be extremely proud of what he has just done -- 156 Test matches is a lot of games," he said on Sky Sports.

Anderson's achievement has been 17 years and 156 appearances in the making, a journey that started when he dismissed Zimbabwe's Mark Vermeulen in 2003.

England paceman Stuart Broad, who has long been Anderson's strike partner, hailed his team-mate's longevity.

"You can't really put it into words, it's just phenomenal," Broad told the BBC.

"He has got better with age and is someone who has inspired me throughout my career, watching him.&nbsp;

"The last five years in particular, since leaving South Africa in 2016, he's just gone from strength to strength. He's a role model to follow for every English cricketer and young cricketer coming through."

Former Australia star Glenn McGrath has the second-most Test wickets by a fast bowler, with 563.

Hailing Anderson's landmark, McGrath told the BBC: "Absolutely incredible, I'm a big fan of Jimmy's. Just the fact he's still playing now, in his 156th Test match, which in itself is just incredible.

"The rigours, the stresses that fast bowlers put on their body day in day out, to turn around and front up and just work your backside off is just absolutely incredible.

"Looking through my career, the two that really stand out skill-wise is Jimmy and Wasim Akram. What they can do with the ball, to swing it both ways, it's a real art form."

Andrew Strauss, a former England captain and ex-teammate of Anderson's, told Sky Sports: "You look at that career, you look at that achievement and it is just extraordinary.&nbsp;

"James Anderson, himself, wouldn't believe it if you had said that a few years ago you would get to 600 Test wickets, you would play 156 Test matches and get 29 five-wicket hauls.&nbsp;

"There is still plenty of life in the old dog yet. It doesn't look like he is going anywhere. A great moment for him."

Bowling greats Anil Kumble and Shane Warne welcomed James Anderson to the elite group of players who have taken 600 Test wickets as tributes to the England star poured in from around the cricketing world on Tuesday.

Bowling greats Anil Kumble and Shane Warne welcomed James Anderson to the elite group of players who have taken 600 Test wickets as tributes to the England star poured in from around the cricketing world on Tuesday. Anderson become the first fast bowler to reach the landmark when he had Pakistan's Azhar Ali caught by Joe Root on the final day of the third Test at Southampton. He joins a trio of retired spinners -- Sri Lanka's Muttiah Muralitharan (800), Australia's Warne (708) and India's Kumble (619). "Congratulations @jimmy9 on your 600 wickets! Massive effort from a great fast bowler. Welcome to the club," Kumble tweeted. Former Australia leg-spinner Warne said it was a "proud moment" for the England bowler. "It's an outstanding achievement from Jimmy Anderson, and his longevity, and he should be extremely proud of what he has just done -- 156 Test matches is a lot of games," he said on Sky Sports. Anderson's achievement has been 17 years and 156 appearances in the making, a journey that started when he dismissed Zimbabwe's Mark Vermeulen in 2003. England paceman Stuart Broad, who has long been Anderson's strike partner, hailed his team-mate's longevity. "You can't really put it into words, it's just phenomenal," Broad told the BBC. "He has got better with age and is someone who has inspired me throughout my career, watching him. "The last five years in particular, since leaving South Africa in 2016, he's just gone from strength to strength. He's a role model to follow for every English cricketer and young cricketer coming through." Former Australia star Glenn McGrath has the second-most Test wickets by a fast bowler, with 563. Hailing Anderson's landmark, McGrath told the BBC: "Absolutely incredible, I'm a big fan of Jimmy's. Just the fact he's still playing now, in his 156th Test match, which in itself is just incredible. "The rigours, the stresses that fast bowlers put on their body day in day out, to turn around and front up and just work your backside off is just absolutely incredible. "Looking through my career, the two that really stand out skill-wise is Jimmy and Wasim Akram. What they can do with the ball, to swing it both ways, it's a real art form." Andrew Strauss, a former England captain and ex-teammate of Anderson's, told Sky Sports: "You look at that career, you look at that achievement and it is just extraordinary. "James Anderson, himself, wouldn't believe it if you had said that a few years ago you would get to 600 Test wickets, you would play 156 Test matches and get 29 five-wicket hauls. "There is still plenty of life in the old dog yet. It doesn't look like he is going anywhere. A great moment for him."

Kumble, Warne welcome England's Anderson to '600 club'

Former football star Ronaldinho arrived home in Brazil on a private jet on Tuesday, following more than five months in detention in Paraguay over a fake passport scandal.

The former Ballon d'Or winner arrived at Rio de Janeiro's international airport from Paraguay's capital Asuncion just before 4:30 pm (1930 GMT.)

A judge on Monday released Ronaldinho, 40, and his brother, who had both been held for a month in jail and another four months under house arrest in a hotel in Asuncion.

The brothers arrived in Paraguay on March 4 because Ronaldinho was due to take part in an event in support of disadvantaged children.

However, two days later,&nbsp;the pair were taken into police custody when investigators raided their hotel following the discovery they had fake documents.

The former World Cup winner is now "free to travel to whatever country in the world he wants but he must inform us if he changes his permanent residence" for a period of one year, the judge said.

"He has no restrictions except for the fulfilment of reparations for damage to society."

Dressed in jeans, a black beret and black shirt at Monday's court hearing, Ronaldinho accepted the terms of his release, which include payment of $90,000 in damages.

His brother Roberto de Assis Moreira, who is also Ronaldinho's business manager, must pay $110,000.

The judge stressed that he was not issuing a "definitive dismissal" of the case but that Ronaldinho was benefitting from a "conditional suspension of the procedure."

His brother was given a two-year suspended sentence.

<h2>- 'Vilely deceived'? -</h2>

Prosecutors said they did not believe Ronaldinho took part in the plan to manufacture the fake Paraguayan passports but believed de Assis Moreira was aware that the passports were false.

"They flagrantly used a public document containing false content," said Marcelo Pecci, one of the public prosecutors, who said it was a "very serious" offense.

Before Monday's trial the public prosecutor said that Ronaldinho displayed no "personal characteristics or criminal behavior that... would put society at risk."

The defense issued a statement insisting on the innocence of both brothers, saying "the people they trusted deceived them vilely."

After being held in a police station in Asuncion, where Ronaldinho celebrated his 40th birthday on March 21, the two men had been under house arrest in a luxury hotel, on bail of $1.6 million.

The investigation has since expanded into a case of possible money laundering and criminal association.

Some 18 people have been arrested in connection with the case, most of them immigration officials or police officers.

Ronaldinho, considered one of the greatest footballers of all time, was crucial in Brazil's 2002 World Cup win.

He played for European giants such as Barcelona, AC Milan and Paris Saint-Germain during a hugely successful 10-year stint in Europe.

He won the Champions League and two La Liga titles with Barcelona and Serie A with Milan.

After returning home to Brazil he won the Copa Libertadores -- South America's equivalent of the Champions League -- with Atletico Mineiro.

Former football star Ronaldinho arrived home in Brazil on a private jet on Tuesday, following more than five months in detention in Paraguay over a fake passport scandal.

Former football star Ronaldinho arrived home in Brazil on a private jet on Tuesday, following more than five months in detention in Paraguay over a fake passport scandal. The former Ballon d'Or winner arrived at Rio de Janeiro's international airport from Paraguay's capital Asuncion just before 4:30 pm (1930 GMT.) A judge on Monday released Ronaldinho, 40, and his brother, who had both been held for a month in jail and another four months under house arrest in a hotel in Asuncion. The brothers arrived in Paraguay on March 4 because Ronaldinho was due to take part in an event in support of disadvantaged children. However, two days later, the pair were taken into police custody when investigators raided their hotel following the discovery they had fake documents. The former World Cup winner is now "free to travel to whatever country in the world he wants but he must inform us if he changes his permanent residence" for a period of one year, the judge said. "He has no restrictions except for the fulfilment of reparations for damage to society." Dressed in jeans, a black beret and black shirt at Monday's court hearing, Ronaldinho accepted the terms of his release, which include payment of $90,000 in damages. His brother Roberto de Assis Moreira, who is also Ronaldinho's business manager, must pay $110,000. The judge stressed that he was not issuing a "definitive dismissal" of the case but that Ronaldinho was benefitting from a "conditional suspension of the procedure." His brother was given a two-year suspended sentence. - 'Vilely deceived'? - Prosecutors said they did not believe Ronaldinho took part in the plan to manufacture the fake Paraguayan passports but believed de Assis Moreira was aware that the passports were false. "They flagrantly used a public document containing false content," said Marcelo Pecci, one of the public prosecutors, who said it was a "very serious" offense. Before Monday's trial the public prosecutor said that Ronaldinho displayed no "personal characteristics or criminal behavior that... would put society at risk." The defense issued a statement insisting on the innocence of both brothers, saying "the people they trusted deceived them vilely." After being held in a police station in Asuncion, where Ronaldinho celebrated his 40th birthday on March 21, the two men had been under house arrest in a luxury hotel, on bail of $1.6 million. The investigation has since expanded into a case of possible money laundering and criminal association. Some 18 people have been arrested in connection with the case, most of them immigration officials or police officers. Ronaldinho, considered one of the greatest footballers of all time, was crucial in Brazil's 2002 World Cup win. He played for European giants such as Barcelona, AC Milan and Paris Saint-Germain during a hugely successful 10-year stint in Europe. He won the Champions League and two La Liga titles with Barcelona and Serie A with Milan. After returning home to Brazil he won the Copa Libertadores -- South America's equivalent of the Champions League -- with Atletico Mineiro.

Ronaldinho arrives back in Brazil after Paraguay detention

Veteran West Indies all-rounder Dwayne Bravo on Wednesday became the first bowler to scalp 500 wickets in T20 cricket after he sent Rahkeem Cornwall packing in the match Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2020 match between Trinbago Knight Riders and St Lucia Zouks.&nbsp;

Bravo, who is playing for TKR in CPL 2020, achieved the historic feat when Cornwall smashed the ball straight to Colin Munro at cover in the fourth over of the match. Munro, one of the safest hands, plucked the catch comfortably helping Bravo to reach the landmark.

In the list of bowlers with most T20 wickets, Bravo sits atop comfortably with Sri Lankan great Lasith Malinga being second with 390 scalps whereas Sunil Narine has 383 wickets to his name.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pravin-tambe-48-becomes-first-indian-to-make-debut-in-cpl-323258" hreflang="en">Pravin Tambe, 48, becomes first Indian to make debut in CPL</a>

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Great catch from Munro, Jimbo's gone, and on his home ground DJ BRAVO MAKES HISTORY! 
 
500 T20 wickets. 100 Hero CPL wickets. Leading the way for the rest of the world for almost 15 years. Congratulations <a href="https://twitter.com/DJBravo47?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DJBravo47</a> on an epic achievement!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CPL20?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CPL20</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CricketPlayedLouder?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CricketPlayedLouder</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SLZvTKR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SLZvTKR</a> <a href="https://t.co/diCUepOmWP">pic.twitter.com/diCUepOmWP</a>
— CPL T20 (@CPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/CPL/status/1298628639316160517?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2020</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-royal-challengers-bangalore-to-have-personalised-training-approach-323206" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Royal Challengers Bangalore to have personalised training approach</a>

Bravo has played for plethora of franchises in various T20 tournaments with the likes of Lahore Qalandars (PSL), Melbourne Renegades and Melbourne Stars (BBL), Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings (IPL). The master of slower delivery was also a part of the West Indies teams that lifted the ICC T20 World Cups in 2012 and 2016.

Bravo, who had called it quits from international cricket, made a comeback to the West Indies side in 2019 after Kieron Pollard took over captaincy with an aim of helping the Windies lift the T20 World Cup in 2020, which has been now postponed due to COVID-19 pandemic. He played his first T20 match in 2006 while going on to represent West Indies in 40 Test and 164 ODIs. Besides 500 wickets in the format, Bravo has a staggering 6313 runs to his name at a strike rate of 127.

After CPL 2020, Bravo will be seen in IPL 2020 for Chennai Super Kings (CSK). IPL 2020 is scheduled to start from September 19 in the UAE with the final slated to be played on November 10.

Veteran West Indies all-rounder Dwayne Bravo on Wednesday became the first bowler to scalp 500 wickets in T20 cricket after he sent Rahkeem Cornwall packing in the match Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2020 match between Trinbago Knight Riders and St Lucia Zouks.

Veteran West Indies all-rounder Dwayne Bravo on Wednesday became the first bowler to scalp 500 wickets in T20 cricket after he sent Rahkeem Cornwall packing in the match Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2020 match between Trinbago Knight Riders and St Lucia Zouks. Bravo, who is playing for TKR in CPL 2020, achieved the historic feat when Cornwall smashed the ball straight to Colin Munro at cover in the fourth over of the match. Munro, one of the safest hands, plucked the catch comfortably helping Bravo to reach the landmark. In the list of bowlers with most T20 wickets, Bravo sits atop comfortably with Sri Lankan great Lasith Malinga being second with 390 scalps whereas Sunil Narine has 383 wickets to his name. ALSO READ: Pravin Tambe, 48, becomes first Indian to make debut in CPL Great catch from Munro, Jimbo's gone, and on his home ground DJ BRAVO MAKES HISTORY! 500 T20 wickets. 100 Hero CPL wickets. Leading the way for the rest of the world for almost 15 years. Congratulations @DJBravo47 on an epic achievement!#CPL20 #CricketPlayedLouder #SLZvTKR pic.twitter.com/diCUepOmWP — CPL T20 (@CPL) August 26, 2020 × ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Royal Challengers Bangalore to have personalised training approach Bravo has played for plethora of franchises in various T20 tournaments with the likes of Lahore Qalandars (PSL), Melbourne Renegades and Melbourne Stars (BBL), Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings (IPL). The master of slower delivery was also a part of the West Indies teams that lifted the ICC T20 World Cups in 2012 and 2016. Bravo, who had called it quits from international cricket, made a comeback to the West Indies side in 2019 after Kieron Pollard took over captaincy with an aim of helping the Windies lift the T20 World Cup in 2020, which has been now postponed due to COVID-19 pandemic. He played his first T20 match in 2006 while going on to represent West Indies in 40 Test and 164 ODIs. Besides 500 wickets in the format, Bravo has a staggering 6313 runs to his name at a strike rate of 127. After CPL 2020, Bravo will be seen in IPL 2020 for Chennai Super Kings (CSK). IPL 2020 is scheduled to start from September 19 in the UAE with the final slated to be played on November 10.

Dwayne Bravo becomes first bowler to scalp 500 T20 wickets

Pravin Tambe on Wednesday scripted history as he became the first Indian to debut in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL). Trinbago Knight Riders (TKR) captain Kieron Pollard, during the toss, confirmed that Tambe will be making his debut for TKR in CPL 2020 against St Lucia Zouks and hence, the veteran leg-spinner became the first Indian to play in the T20 league based in the Caribbean.&nbsp;

Tambe has loads of experience under his belt as he earlier played in the Indian Premier League (IPL) while representing Rajasthan Royals (RR) and the now-defunct Gujarat Lions. He has also played in the T10 League.&nbsp;

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Welcome to the party, India! We're delighted to see Pravin Tambe in Hero CPL for the first time at 48 years young - what a story!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CPL20?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CPL20</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CricketPlayedLouder?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CricketPlayedLouder</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SLZvTKR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SLZvTKR</a> <a href="https://t.co/x2P73Epz2G">pic.twitter.com/x2P73Epz2G</a>
— CPL T20 (@CPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/CPL/status/1298623141191835649?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The 48-year-old put his name in the CPL 2020 draft after being disqualified by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to participate in IPL 2020 as he had earlier played in the T10 League, which is against the BCCI guidelines. As per BCCI rules, an Indian player can’t participate in overseas tournaments without retiring and hence, he was forced to pull out his name from IPL 2020 despite getting sold to Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2020 auction, which took place in December 2019 in Kolkata, West Bengal. &nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/abu-dhabi-covid-19-cases-reason-behind-ipl-2020-schedule-delay-report-323175" hreflang="en">Abu Dhabi COVID-19 cases reason behind IPL 2020 schedule delay: Report</a>

After announcing his retirement, Tambe became eligible to participate in CPL and now makes his debut for Trinbago Knight Riders and continues to defy all the odds due to his age.&nbsp;

Talking about his numbers, the leggie has picked up 28 wickets in 33 matches with a good ecomony rate of 7.75 in IPL. He also holds an IPL hat-trick which he uniquely picked up in two deliveries (the third delivery being a wide).&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-royal-challengers-bangalore-to-have-personalised-training-approach-323206" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Royal Challengers Bangalore to have personalised training approach</a>

Tambe would be looking to use his vast experience in CPL 2020 and prove his worth once again after impressing in plethora of tournaments in India and around the world. He can be seen playing for TKR in CPL 2020. 
&nbsp;

Pravin Tambe on Wednesday scripted history as he became the first Indian to debut in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL). Trinbago Knight Riders (TKR) captain Kieron Pollard, during the toss, confirmed that Tambe will be making his debut for TKR in CPL 2020 against St Lucia Zouks and hence, the veteran leg-spinner became the first Indian to play in the T20 league based in the Caribbean.

Pravin Tambe on Wednesday scripted history as he became the first Indian to debut in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL). Trinbago Knight Riders (TKR) captain Kieron Pollard, during the toss, confirmed that Tambe will be making his debut for TKR in CPL 2020 against St Lucia Zouks and hence, the veteran leg-spinner became the first Indian to play in the T20 league based in the Caribbean. Tambe has loads of experience under his belt as he earlier played in the Indian Premier League (IPL) while representing Rajasthan Royals (RR) and the now-defunct Gujarat Lions. He has also played in the T10 League. Welcome to the party, India! We're delighted to see Pravin Tambe in Hero CPL for the first time at 48 years young - what a story!#CPL20 #CricketPlayedLouder #SLZvTKR pic.twitter.com/x2P73Epz2G — CPL T20 (@CPL) August 26, 2020 × The 48-year-old put his name in the CPL 2020 draft after being disqualified by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to participate in IPL 2020 as he had earlier played in the T10 League, which is against the BCCI guidelines. As per BCCI rules, an Indian player can’t participate in overseas tournaments without retiring and hence, he was forced to pull out his name from IPL 2020 despite getting sold to Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2020 auction, which took place in December 2019 in Kolkata, West Bengal. ALSO READ: Abu Dhabi COVID-19 cases reason behind IPL 2020 schedule delay: Report After announcing his retirement, Tambe became eligible to participate in CPL and now makes his debut for Trinbago Knight Riders and continues to defy all the odds due to his age. Talking about his numbers, the leggie has picked up 28 wickets in 33 matches with a good ecomony rate of 7.75 in IPL. He also holds an IPL hat-trick which he uniquely picked up in two deliveries (the third delivery being a wide). ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Royal Challengers Bangalore to have personalised training approach Tambe would be looking to use his vast experience in CPL 2020 and prove his worth once again after impressing in plethora of tournaments in India and around the world. He can be seen playing for TKR in CPL 2020.

Pravin Tambe, 48, becomes first Indian to make debut in CPL

If Lionel Messi's mind is made up to leave Barcelona, the question turns to where he goes next.&nbsp; His priority has always been to be part of a "winning project" at Camp Nou but his latest season was not only devoid of trophies, it was defined by chaos and ended in humiliation.&nbsp;

Messi has not asked for a transfer to put his feet up for the final years of his career. This is a considered move aimed at bolstering his successes, and in one competition in particular.&nbsp;

The Champions League has become his obsession, which puts all of Europe's super-clubs in contention and eliminates the less intensive, or more romantic, options, at least for now.&nbsp;

A fairytale return to Newell's Old Boys in Argentina, a project-build Stateside in the MLS or even a challenge at an aspiring European team in the mould of Diego Maradona's time at Napoli, will all become more likely once Messi is out of Barcelona.&nbsp;

But that is not likely to be his next step. Instead, Messi wants titles and a club he believes in again.&nbsp;

There will be no shortage of clubs pining for arguably the greatest player of all time but once they have done the sums, particularly in the heat of the coronavirus crisis, only a few will be able to make the numbers work.&nbsp;

On the back of their Champions League triumph, Bayern Munich are the pre-eminent force in Europe but they are unlikely to be able to afford Messi, aged 33, and with a base salary of around 60 million euros per year.&nbsp;

The same goes for Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool, as well as Juventus, who remain restricted by the enormous outlay needed to sign Cristiano Ronaldo two years ago.&nbsp;

Perhaps Ronaldo's transfer, which is yet to deliver Juve the European success they hoped it would, might even make some of Messi's potential suitors nervous.&nbsp;

Madrid, meanwhile, would love nothing more than to prize Messi from their rivals - and they have tried before - but even if Messi wants to leave Barca, he is not out to burn his reputation and legacy.

<h2>- Wealthiest left standing -</h2>

Only the wealthiest are left standing but would the history of Manchester United or the upward momentum of Frank Lampard's Chelsea be enough to persuade Messi?&nbsp;

In recent seasons, neither has lasted in the Premier League's title race, let alone been serious contenders in the Champions League.&nbsp;

Those able both to afford Messi, and convince him, may only be Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester City, with Inter Milan a third option.&nbsp;

City would appear favourites but the club have always trodden carefully around the prospect of Messi. Their sporting staff, including coach Pep Guardiola, sporting director Txiki Begiristain and chief executive Ferran Soriano, all have connections with Barcelona they are keen to respect.&nbsp;

If City could be seen to be offering a safe haven for Messi's desire to go, rather than snatching him away, it would surely be an opportunity they could not pass up.

Messi could propel them in the Champions League and launch the City brand, so important to the club's Abu Dhabi owners, to a different level.

For PSG, whose frustration in Europe has been comparable to City's, even if they broke new ground by reaching last weekend's final, Messi would also represent a seismic addition to the Qatari project.

A Neymar-Messi-Kylian Mbappe front three would not be a difficult sell.

Inter's pitch would be more personal, given Messi's father Jorge has reportedly bought a house close to the club's offices while the Italian outfit have fostered close relations with the Messi family for years.

With Antonio Conte as coach and ambitious Chinese owners, Messi might be drawn to Inter, where the tax regulations would be less punitive and the disapproval less pronounced, given the club's history and tradition.

None of the options are without risk. Of the leading trio, only Inter have ever won the Champions League but even that was in 2010.

Success is not guaranteed for club or player, with Messi enduring an injury-interrupted season himself last term.

Staying at Barcelona remains a possibility, particularly if under-pressure president Josep Maria Bartomeu decides to resign.

But despite calls from fans and rival candidates, there is no suggestion yet that Bartomeu is considering his position.

Bartomeu's new sporting director Ramon Planes said on Wednesday the club "would have to fight" to ensure the relationship between Barcelona and Messi continues. It may be too late.

If Lionel Messi's mind is made up to leave Barcelona, the question turns to where he goes next. His priority has always been to be part of a "winning project" at Camp Nou but his latest season was not only devoid of trophies, it was defined by chaos and ended in humiliation.

If Lionel Messi's mind is made up to leave Barcelona, the question turns to where he goes next. His priority has always been to be part of a "winning project" at Camp Nou but his latest season was not only devoid of trophies, it was defined by chaos and ended in humiliation. Messi has not asked for a transfer to put his feet up for the final years of his career. This is a considered move aimed at bolstering his successes, and in one competition in particular. The Champions League has become his obsession, which puts all of Europe's super-clubs in contention and eliminates the less intensive, or more romantic, options, at least for now. A fairytale return to Newell's Old Boys in Argentina, a project-build Stateside in the MLS or even a challenge at an aspiring European team in the mould of Diego Maradona's time at Napoli, will all become more likely once Messi is out of Barcelona. But that is not likely to be his next step. Instead, Messi wants titles and a club he believes in again. There will be no shortage of clubs pining for arguably the greatest player of all time but once they have done the sums, particularly in the heat of the coronavirus crisis, only a few will be able to make the numbers work. On the back of their Champions League triumph, Bayern Munich are the pre-eminent force in Europe but they are unlikely to be able to afford Messi, aged 33, and with a base salary of around 60 million euros per year. The same goes for Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool, as well as Juventus, who remain restricted by the enormous outlay needed to sign Cristiano Ronaldo two years ago. Perhaps Ronaldo's transfer, which is yet to deliver Juve the European success they hoped it would, might even make some of Messi's potential suitors nervous. Madrid, meanwhile, would love nothing more than to prize Messi from their rivals - and they have tried before - but even if Messi wants to leave Barca, he is not out to burn his reputation and legacy. - Wealthiest left standing - Only the wealthiest are left standing but would the history of Manchester United or the upward momentum of Frank Lampard's Chelsea be enough to persuade Messi? In recent seasons, neither has lasted in the Premier League's title race, let alone been serious contenders in the Champions League. Those able both to afford Messi, and convince him, may only be Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester City, with Inter Milan a third option. City would appear favourites but the club have always trodden carefully around the prospect of Messi. Their sporting staff, including coach Pep Guardiola, sporting director Txiki Begiristain and chief executive Ferran Soriano, all have connections with Barcelona they are keen to respect. If City could be seen to be offering a safe haven for Messi's desire to go, rather than snatching him away, it would surely be an opportunity they could not pass up. Messi could propel them in the Champions League and launch the City brand, so important to the club's Abu Dhabi owners, to a different level. For PSG, whose frustration in Europe has been comparable to City's, even if they broke new ground by reaching last weekend's final, Messi would also represent a seismic addition to the Qatari project. A Neymar-Messi-Kylian Mbappe front three would not be a difficult sell. Inter's pitch would be more personal, given Messi's father Jorge has reportedly bought a house close to the club's offices while the Italian outfit have fostered close relations with the Messi family for years. With Antonio Conte as coach and ambitious Chinese owners, Messi might be drawn to Inter, where the tax regulations would be less punitive and the disapproval less pronounced, given the club's history and tradition. None of the options are without risk. Of the leading trio, only Inter have ever won the Champions League but even that was in 2010. Success is not guaranteed for club or player, with Messi enduring an injury-interrupted season himself last term. Staying at Barcelona remains a possibility, particularly if under-pressure president Josep Maria Bartomeu decides to resign. But despite calls from fans and rival candidates, there is no suggestion yet that Bartomeu is considering his position. Bartomeu's new sporting director Ramon Planes said on Wednesday the club "would have to fight" to ensure the relationship between Barcelona and Messi continues. It may be too late.

Messi on the market but only Europe's richest and most ambitious need apply

Lionel Messi on Tuesday dropped a bombshell after officially asking Barcelona to allow him to leave after spending more than two decades at the Catalan club. Messi, who has been upset over Barca board, has made up his mind that his glorious chapter with the club has come to an end.&nbsp;

While Barcelona on Wednesday made it clear that they want to keep the ‘best player in the world’ and start a fresh sporting chapter, Messi seems to be final in his decision to leave the club. Barcelona’s technical director Ramon Planes, after unveiling new signing Trincao on Wednesday, said that the club do not contemplate any sort of exit for Messi as they want him to stay while adding he is convinced that Barcelona’s future will be full of positivity.&nbsp;

TRENDING |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/whats-next-for-lionel-messi-a-record-breaking-career-in-pictures-323230" hreflang="en">What's next for Lionel Messi? A record breaking career in pictures</a>

"We do not contemplate any kind of exiting by Leo at the contractual level, because what we want is for him to stay here. I think that Leo knows he has enormous respect because we are talking about the best player in the world, the best player in history. And I'm absolutely convinced the upcoming future will be positive. We have to be optimistic and talk about the future, about young players, very talented players and players with a lot of experience like Leo who are in the team and have won great things. Together we have to build the Barça we all want,” Planes told the media.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/adios-lionel-messi-323161">Adios, Lionel Messi?</a>

However, reports suggest that Messi has already spoken to Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola while showing his interest in working with him again. Other reports suggest that Man City are preparing a contract for Messi which will bring him to the Etihad Stadium.&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/stay-or-go-messi-in-legal-tangle-with-barcelona-over-leaving-club-323132" hreflang="en">Stay or go? Messi in legal tangle with Barcelona over leaving club</a>

The likes of Guardiola, Txiki Begiristain, Ferran Soriano and other staff members know Messi in and out as they have worked together in Barcelona earlier. And that relationship could lure Messi away from the Spanish giants. Sergio Aguero, Man City record goal-scorer, is Messi’s best friend and have shared the Argentina jersey over the years.&nbsp;

But the question remains, will Messi leave Barcelona? If he does, then all road lead to Manchester. 
&nbsp;

Lionel Messi on Tuesday dropped a bombshell after officially asking Barcelona to allow him to leave after spending more than two decades at the Catalan club. Messi, who has been upset over Barca board, has made up his mind that his glorious chapter with the club has come to an end.

Lionel Messi on Tuesday dropped a bombshell after officially asking Barcelona to allow him to leave after spending more than two decades at the Catalan club. Messi, who has been upset over Barca board, has made up his mind that his glorious chapter with the club has come to an end. While Barcelona on Wednesday made it clear that they want to keep the ‘best player in the world’ and start a fresh sporting chapter, Messi seems to be final in his decision to leave the club. Barcelona’s technical director Ramon Planes, after unveiling new signing Trincao on Wednesday, said that the club do not contemplate any sort of exit for Messi as they want him to stay while adding he is convinced that Barcelona’s future will be full of positivity. TRENDING | What's next for Lionel Messi? A record breaking career in pictures "We do not contemplate any kind of exiting by Leo at the contractual level, because what we want is for him to stay here. I think that Leo knows he has enormous respect because we are talking about the best player in the world, the best player in history. And I'm absolutely convinced the upcoming future will be positive. We have to be optimistic and talk about the future, about young players, very talented players and players with a lot of experience like Leo who are in the team and have won great things. Together we have to build the Barça we all want,” Planes told the media. ALSO READ: Adios, Lionel Messi? However, reports suggest that Messi has already spoken to Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola while showing his interest in working with him again. Other reports suggest that Man City are preparing a contract for Messi which will bring him to the Etihad Stadium. IN PICS | Stay or go? Messi in legal tangle with Barcelona over leaving club The likes of Guardiola, Txiki Begiristain, Ferran Soriano and other staff members know Messi in and out as they have worked together in Barcelona earlier. And that relationship could lure Messi away from the Spanish giants. Sergio Aguero, Man City record goal-scorer, is Messi’s best friend and have shared the Argentina jersey over the years. But the question remains, will Messi leave Barcelona? If he does, then all road lead to Manchester.

Barcelona want Lionel Messi to stay but for the Argentine all roads lead to Manchester

What's next for Lionel Messi? A record breaking career in pictures

Royal Challengers Bangalore are set to commence training for Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 in the bio-secure environment after completing their designated six-day quarantine period. The Virat Kohli-led outfit will introduce personalized training approach to prepare for IPL 2020, which is set to be held in the UAE from September 19 to November 10.

As the RCB squad gears up to start training for IPL 2020, franchise’s Director of Cricket Operations, Mike Hesson reckons that single training session for all the players won’t be a viable options given the current circumstances surrounding COVID-19 pandemic, strict protocols and what each player has experienced over the last few months.

RCB, who are based in Dubai for IPL 2020, will begin their three-week training camp at the ICC Cricket Academy and will take up training and practice to gather the lost rhythm and demands of playing in the extreme heat in the UAE.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-test-rankings-crawley-anderson-soar-up-after-memorable-performances-323188" hreflang="en">ICC Test Rankings: Crawley, Anderson soar up after memorable performances</a>

Talking about the challenges for the season, Mike Hesson – Director of Cricket Operations, RCB said, “Players have spent the last few months in a variety of environments and are therefore in different stages of fitness and training, and hence a singular training approach is not the best route to start getting ready for the season. Our Support Staff team will continue working in a way that is flexible and offers personalised support. We have a highly skilled Support Staff team to nurture the players mentally, physically and emotionally to assist each players preparation so they are ready to play their best cricket.”

<img alt="Mike Hesson" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c736c150-3a73-4779-9c6d-9acadf687d07" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Mike%20Hesson%20%E2%80%93%20Director%20of%20Cricket%20Operations%2C%20RCB%20.JPG" />

Whereas RCB Head Coach Simon Katich said that they have planned several split-group sessions in a bid to give batsmen time to get back into flow after a long layoff while adding once everyone gets their rhythm back, collective sessions and practice matches can be conducted.

ALSO WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-exclusive-australias-josh-hazlewood-on-ipl-2020-csk-and-ms-dhoni-and-india-series-316501" hreflang="en">WION Exclusive: Australia's Josh Hazlewood on IPL 2020, CSK and MS Dhoni and India series</a>

Simon Katich, Head Coach, Royal Challengers Bangalore, said, “Given the unique circumstances, Covid- 19 has presented to everyone worldwide we are just extremely grateful to be in a position that we can get back to putting on a show for IPL in the UAE. Our preparations have revolved around giving the players at least 3 weeks to get back into the routine of training their skills and getting their bodies ready for the competition so they can build up gradually and try to minimise any injuries. We have several split- group sessions planned initially to help give the batsmen plenty of time getting volume in after such a long layoff. It also ties into helping mitigate any risks with Covid by not having the full squad training all at once either. Once everyone has got their touch and rhythm back with bat and ball, we will move into more competitive training before the scheduled practice matches and the start of the tournament.”&nbsp;

IPL 2020 starts from September 19 in the UAE with the final scheduled to be played in November 10.

Royal Challengers Bangalore are set to commence training for Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 in the bio-secure environment after completing their designated six-day quarantine period.

Royal Challengers Bangalore are set to commence training for Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 in the bio-secure environment after completing their designated six-day quarantine period. The Virat Kohli-led outfit will introduce personalized training approach to prepare for IPL 2020, which is set to be held in the UAE from September 19 to November 10. As the RCB squad gears up to start training for IPL 2020, franchise’s Director of Cricket Operations, Mike Hesson reckons that single training session for all the players won’t be a viable options given the current circumstances surrounding COVID-19 pandemic, strict protocols and what each player has experienced over the last few months. RCB, who are based in Dubai for IPL 2020, will begin their three-week training camp at the ICC Cricket Academy and will take up training and practice to gather the lost rhythm and demands of playing in the extreme heat in the UAE. ALSO READ: ICC Test Rankings: Crawley, Anderson soar up after memorable performances Talking about the challenges for the season, Mike Hesson – Director of Cricket Operations, RCB said, “Players have spent the last few months in a variety of environments and are therefore in different stages of fitness and training, and hence a singular training approach is not the best route to start getting ready for the season. Our Support Staff team will continue working in a way that is flexible and offers personalised support. We have a highly skilled Support Staff team to nurture the players mentally, physically and emotionally to assist each players preparation so they are ready to play their best cricket.” Whereas RCB Head Coach Simon Katich said that they have planned several split-group sessions in a bid to give batsmen time to get back into flow after a long layoff while adding once everyone gets their rhythm back, collective sessions and practice matches can be conducted. ALSO WATCH: WION Exclusive: Australia's Josh Hazlewood on IPL 2020, CSK and MS Dhoni and India series Simon Katich, Head Coach, Royal Challengers Bangalore, said, “Given the unique circumstances, Covid- 19 has presented to everyone worldwide we are just extremely grateful to be in a position that we can get back to putting on a show for IPL in the UAE. Our preparations have revolved around giving the players at least 3 weeks to get back into the routine of training their skills and getting their bodies ready for the competition so they can build up gradually and try to minimise any injuries. We have several split- group sessions planned initially to help give the batsmen plenty of time getting volume in after such a long layoff. It also ties into helping mitigate any risks with Covid by not having the full squad training all at once either. Once everyone has got their touch and rhythm back with bat and ball, we will move into more competitive training before the scheduled practice matches and the start of the tournament.” IPL 2020 starts from September 19 in the UAE with the final scheduled to be played in November 10.

IPL 2020: Royal Challengers Bangalore to have personalised training approach

England batsman Zak Crawley’s massive 267 and fast bowler James Anderson’s match haul of seven wickets see the duo shoot up in the latest ICC Men’s Test Player Rankings after the drawn final Test against Pakistan in Southampton.

Crawley has ascended 53 spots to reach a career-best 28th position after recording the 10th highest individual score for England and their second highest maiden Test century. He had started the series in 95th position but his 320-run aggregate has made him the fourth best ranked England batsman after only eight Tests, behind Ben Stokes, Joe Root and Jos Buttler.

Anderson has moved back to the top-10 after briefly dropping out of it since the preceding home series against the West Indies. The formerly top-ranked bowler has gained six spots to reach eighth position after a Test that saw him grab his 29th five-wicket haul in the first innings and become the first fast bowler to 600 wickets with Azhar Ali’s scalp in the second innings.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/abu-dhabi-covid-19-cases-reason-behind-ipl-2020-schedule-delay-report-323175" hreflang="en">Abu Dhabi COVID-19 cases reason behind IPL 2020 schedule delay: Report</a>

Latest ICC Test Ranking of bowlers: 1. Pat Cummins - 904. 2. Stuart Broad - 845. 3. Neil Wagner - 843. 4. Tim Southee - 812. 5. Jason Holder - 810. 6. Kagiso Rabada - 802. 7. Mitchell Starc - 797. 8. James Anderson - 781.

Buttler is another England player to make notable progress in the latest rankings update after scoring a fine 152 in his side’s only innings of the Test. He has reached a career-best 637 rating points and 21st position, three off his best of 18th achieved in November 2018.

All-rounder Ben Stokes has ceded the top spot for all-rounders to Jason Holder after missing two Test matches, dropping one point behind the West Indies captain. For each Test missed, players lose one per cent each of their batting and bowling points with a cumulative effect of about two per cent on a player’s all-round rating.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-v-pakistan-three-things-we-learned-323147" hreflang="en">England v Pakistan: Three things we learned</a>

For Pakistan, captain Azhar’s return to form with a solid 141 in the first innings has seen him gain 11 places and reach 23rd position, while wicketkeeper-batsman Mohammad Rizwan has gained three slots to reach 72nd position after a fighting half-century in the first innings.

Part-time spinners Fawad Alam and Asad Shafiq are in the top 100 for bowlers. Fawad has gained 22 slots to reach 94th position while Asad has moved up nine places to 100th place.

England batsman Zak Crawley’s massive 267 and fast bowler James Anderson’s match haul of seven wickets see the duo shoot up in the latest ICC Men’s Test Player Rankings after the drawn final Test against Pakistan in Southampton.

England batsman Zak Crawley’s massive 267 and fast bowler James Anderson’s match haul of seven wickets see the duo shoot up in the latest ICC Men’s Test Player Rankings after the drawn final Test against Pakistan in Southampton. Crawley has ascended 53 spots to reach a career-best 28th position after recording the 10th highest individual score for England and their second highest maiden Test century. He had started the series in 95th position but his 320-run aggregate has made him the fourth best ranked England batsman after only eight Tests, behind Ben Stokes, Joe Root and Jos Buttler. Anderson has moved back to the top-10 after briefly dropping out of it since the preceding home series against the West Indies. The formerly top-ranked bowler has gained six spots to reach eighth position after a Test that saw him grab his 29th five-wicket haul in the first innings and become the first fast bowler to 600 wickets with Azhar Ali’s scalp in the second innings. ALSO READ: Abu Dhabi COVID-19 cases reason behind IPL 2020 schedule delay: Report Latest ICC Test Ranking of bowlers: 1. Pat Cummins - 904. 2. Stuart Broad - 845. 3. Neil Wagner - 843. 4. Tim Southee - 812. 5. Jason Holder - 810. 6. Kagiso Rabada - 802. 7. Mitchell Starc - 797. 8. James Anderson - 781. Buttler is another England player to make notable progress in the latest rankings update after scoring a fine 152 in his side’s only innings of the Test. He has reached a career-best 637 rating points and 21st position, three off his best of 18th achieved in November 2018. All-rounder Ben Stokes has ceded the top spot for all-rounders to Jason Holder after missing two Test matches, dropping one point behind the West Indies captain. For each Test missed, players lose one per cent each of their batting and bowling points with a cumulative effect of about two per cent on a player’s all-round rating. ALSO READ: England v Pakistan: Three things we learned For Pakistan, captain Azhar’s return to form with a solid 141 in the first innings has seen him gain 11 places and reach 23rd position, while wicketkeeper-batsman Mohammad Rizwan has gained three slots to reach 72nd position after a fighting half-century in the first innings. Part-time spinners Fawad Alam and Asad Shafiq are in the top 100 for bowlers. Fawad has gained 22 slots to reach 94th position while Asad has moved up nine places to 100th place.

ICC Test Rankings: Crawley, Anderson soar up after memorable performances

While all the franchises of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl?page=1">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a> has reached UAE, there is no announcement of the tournament schedule, which is set to start from September 19. While IPL Governing Council Chairman <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/when-will-ipl-2020-schedule-release-brijesh-patel-spills-the-beans-322827">Brijesh Patel had earlier said that the schedule for IPL 2020 will be released by the end of the week</a>, it looks like fans may have to wait a bit longer to get a hang of the fixture list.

According to a report in The Hindu, due to spike in COVID-19 cases in the UAE, there is confusion over the availability of Abu Dhabi and hence, there is a delay in IPL 2020 schedule. Abu Dhabi’s regional authorities have made rapid test mandatory at entry point which will see the broadcast crew and other officials shell out an additional AED 50.&nbsp;

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A Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) team is in the UAE to make some final checks before locking onto the schedule and the Indian board is looking to find an immediate solution so that everyone is on the same page before the schedule is released. Reportedly, there are even talks of excluding Abu Dhabi as a venue and the latest development suggests the board may restrict the number of matches there.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-chris-gayle-tests-negative-for-covid-19-after-attending-usain-bolts-birthday-bash-322951" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Chris Gayle tests negative for COVID-19 after attending Usain Bolt's birthday bash</a>

“It could be a case of two teams playing home and away games back to back, similar to 2011 ,” said an IPL insider. “As of now, Abu Dhabi could host a few matches only in the first half.”

Mumbai Indians and Kolkata Knight Riders are based in Abu Dhabi.

Earlier this week, BCCI’s Jay Shah wrote to state units that they won’t be able to attend “at least the beginning” of IPL 2020 due to strict bio-bubble protocols in place. However, the board is confident that during the business end of the tournament, members are likely to travel to the UAE if the travel restrictions are lifted.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/due-to-bio-bubble-restrictions-unable-to-invite-you-for-start-of-ipl-jay-shah-to-state-units-323025" hreflang="en">Due to bio-bubble restrictions, unable to invite you for start of IPL: Jay Shah to state units</a>

"While I am confident that we would be able to deliver a memorable tournament, I will be approaching the start of the tournament with a heavy heart as your absence would render the opening incomplete," BCCI secretary Shah wrote in an email to state units, which is in possession of PTI. 
&nbsp;

While all the franchises of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 has reached UAE, there is no announcement of the tournament schedule, which is set to start from September 19.

While all the franchises of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 has reached UAE, there is no announcement of the tournament schedule, which is set to start from September 19. While IPL Governing Council Chairman Brijesh Patel had earlier said that the schedule for IPL 2020 will be released by the end of the week, it looks like fans may have to wait a bit longer to get a hang of the fixture list. According to a report in The Hindu, due to spike in COVID-19 cases in the UAE, there is confusion over the availability of Abu Dhabi and hence, there is a delay in IPL 2020 schedule. Abu Dhabi’s regional authorities have made rapid test mandatory at entry point which will see the broadcast crew and other officials shell out an additional AED 50. IN PICS | IPL Lookback: List of winners from 2008 to 2019! A Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) team is in the UAE to make some final checks before locking onto the schedule and the Indian board is looking to find an immediate solution so that everyone is on the same page before the schedule is released. Reportedly, there are even talks of excluding Abu Dhabi as a venue and the latest development suggests the board may restrict the number of matches there. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Chris Gayle tests negative for COVID-19 after attending Usain Bolt's birthday bash “It could be a case of two teams playing home and away games back to back, similar to 2011 ,” said an IPL insider. “As of now, Abu Dhabi could host a few matches only in the first half.” Mumbai Indians and Kolkata Knight Riders are based in Abu Dhabi. Earlier this week, BCCI’s Jay Shah wrote to state units that they won’t be able to attend “at least the beginning” of IPL 2020 due to strict bio-bubble protocols in place. However, the board is confident that during the business end of the tournament, members are likely to travel to the UAE if the travel restrictions are lifted. ALSO READ: Due to bio-bubble restrictions, unable to invite you for start of IPL: Jay Shah to state units "While I am confident that we would be able to deliver a memorable tournament, I will be approaching the start of the tournament with a heavy heart as your absence would render the opening incomplete," BCCI secretary Shah wrote in an email to state units, which is in possession of PTI.

Abu Dhabi COVID-19 cases reason behind IPL 2020 schedule delay: Report

Will Lionel Messi really leave Barcelona? Is it even possible? Well, Messi leaving Barca never looked as close. The year 2020 has brought many surprises and shocks, and Messi departing from the Nou Camp could very well be the final nail in the coffin in the beautiful love story between the Argentine maestro and the Catalan club.&nbsp;

Fed up with board politics and how the club has been performing on the pitch, Messi on Tuesday handed in a transfer request to Barcelona board requesting them to release him of his duties. Interestingly, Messi has a EUR 700 million release clause but another crucial clause in his contract states he can leave the club for free after the end of every season. With COVID-19 pandemic and the financial hardship clubs had to face, it is near to impossible that any club with shell out EUR 700 million but will Messi leave the Spanish giants for free?&nbsp;

<img alt="Messi" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="dbbfad67-1eb5-4102-b2d5-344645e5f064" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1WI6MU.jpg" />

Apparently, Messi’s clause which allows him to leave for free ended on May 31, 2020&nbsp;but the entourage of the six-time Ballon d’Or winner argues that the season was extended due to the shutdown and restart and hence, the clause remains active. What’s next? A legal battle may follow if Messi pushes his exit.&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/stay-or-go-messi-in-legal-tangle-with-barcelona-over-leaving-club-323132" hreflang="en">Stay or go? Messi in legal tangle with Barcelona over leaving club</a>

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🎥 Dozens of fans in front of the club's offices showing their disagreements with the board with several shouts. <a href="https://twitter.com/esport3?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@esport3</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FCB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FCB</a> 
 
<a href="https://t.co/t0tQBKNHut">pic.twitter.com/t0tQBKNHut</a>
— Hagrid ✆ (@HagridFCB) <a href="https://twitter.com/HagridFCB/status/1298374886633725956?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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Messi on Tuesday sent a fax to Barcelona asking them to allow him to leave the club. Tweets from Catalan President Quim Torra i Pla, club legend Carles Puyol confirmed that if Messi were to leave Barca then it is now or never. Fans started to gather outside Barcelona offices, chanting 'Bartomeu out' and that sums up the seriousness of the entire matter.

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Respeto y admiración, Leo. Todo mi apoyo, amigo.
— Carles Puyol (@Carles5puyol) <a href="https://twitter.com/Carles5puyol/status/1298315936592797697?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Barcelona have not been the same on the football pitch since the departure of Pep Guardiola. While Tito Vilanova tried to continue Guardiola’s legacy, his untimely demise due to cancer left everyone in shock. Gerardo Martino, Luis Enrique, Ernesto Valverde and Quique Setien came and went.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-hands-in-his-transfer-request-to-barcelona-323113">Lionel Messi hands in his transfer request to Barcelona</a>

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Catalunya serà sempre casa teva. Moltes gràcies per tots aquest temps de felicitat i d’un futbol extraordinari. Hem tingut la sort de compartir uns anys de les nostres vides amb el millor jugador del món. I un noble esportista No t’oblidarem mai. Leo Messi, Creu de Sant Jordi. <a href="https://t.co/Ojev577MoE">pic.twitter.com/Ojev577MoE</a>
— Quim Torra i Pla (@QuimTorraiPla) <a href="https://twitter.com/QuimTorraiPla/status/1298327109459378179?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

While many will argue Barcelona won good number of trophies under Enrique but it was largely due to the epic troika of Neymar-Suarez-Messi. Players were unhappy with how the team performed in the UEFA Champions League and managers were continued to be sacked. The defeats against AS Roma, Liverpool didn’t help their case and the humiliating 8-2 defeat to Bayern Munich felt like the house of cards could just crumble and it did.&nbsp;

<img alt="Lionel Messi" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ffe10511-7210-453a-afae-e4cf21ffb3da" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_13W71S.jpg" />

Ronald Koeman, a Barcelona legend, was appointed as the manager but the way he is approaching the senior players to discuss about their roles in the club has played a role in the fallout. Koeman, apparently, told Suarez that he is not needed in the club over a phone call. Sergio Busquets was told he would not have a key role in the club next season. Messi was reportedly told by Koeman that ‘privileges’ are over. Something which may have irked the Argentine megastar.&nbsp;

Bartomeu’s presence as club president hasn’t had a long-lasting impact – on the squad and financially. The club is in debt, the big buys of Philippe Coutinho and Ousmane Dembele haven’t worked out. Neymar has left the club and was never bought back despite heavy interest from both sides. Messi felt enough is enough.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-lionel-messi-leave-barcelona-man-city-crunching-numbers-for-argentine-maestro-322969" hreflang="en">Will Lionel Messi leave Barcelona? Man City 'crunching numbers' for Argentine maestro</a>

Messi wants a winning project where he can continue to win trophies and satisfy the hunger he has developed over the years. And this time, Messi is serious about leaving the club. He doesn’t trust the board. He doesn’t see them competent enough to turn the situation around. He sees them unable to assemble a good squad. Everything seems to point that Messi is leaving Barcelona.&nbsp;

Only few clubs can afford to have Messi on their wage-sheet. Barcelona pay him around £60 million annually. Even if Messi leaves for free, his wage could be an issue for clubs interested in acquiring his services. Paris Saint-Germain or Manchester City are the only two clubs capable of paying that amount of money.

Man City have an advantage as they have Pep Guardiola as managers while Txiki Begiristain and Ferran Soriano, club director and CEO respectively of Man City,&nbsp;have also worked with Messi during their time at Barcelona. The Catalan club likes two players in Eric Garcia and Gabriel Jesus and if Messi is to join Barcelona then these two players can leave Etihad Stadium for Nou Camp. Reportedly, Messi has even had a phone call with Guardiola and Sergio Aguero, his best-friend since early footballing days.&nbsp;

<img alt="Messi and Guardiola" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f71f49ce-4d9c-41f7-b78d-f12b0baea07f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_Par7039479.jpg" />

Barcelona board’s presidential elections are also around the corner and the candidates battling for the top chair have call for immediate resignation by Bartomeu. Jordi Farre, another presidential candidate, on Wednesday, filed a vote of no confidence against Bartomeu with a view that his resignation could just force Messi to change his decision. But will he?

While Cristiano Ronaldo have found success despite changing clubs, Messi may be thinking it is time to take up a new challenge and freshen up things. But the question remains, will the year 2020 bring the biggest transfer news of all time?

LIONEL MESSI in numbers:

International Honours

2005: U-20 world champion

2008: Olympic gold

Club honours

Champions League: (2006, 2009, 2011, 2015)

La Liga titles: (2005, 2006, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2013, 2015, 2016, 2018, 2019)

Copa del Rey: 2009, 2012, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018)

European Super Cup: (2009-2010, 2011-2012, 2015-2016)

Spanish Super Cup: (2005-2006, 2006-2007, 2009-2010, 2010-2011, 2011-2012, 2013-2014, 2016-2017, 2018-2019)

World Club: (2009-2010, 2011-2012, 2015-2016)

Individual honours

Ballons d'Or: (2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2019)

UEFA's best European player of the season: (2011, 2015)

World Cup Golden Ball best player award: 2014

Best Copa America player: 2015

Top Champions League scorer: (2008-2009: 9 goals; 2009-2010: 8; 2010-2011: 12; 2011-2012: 14; 2014-2015: 10, 2018-2019: 12)

Top La Liga scorer: (2009-2010: 34 goals, 2011-2012: 50, 2012-2013: 46, 2016-2017: 37, 2017-2018: 34, 2018-2019: 36, 2019-20: 25)

Best player at an Olympics: 2008

Best player at U-20 World Cup: 2005

Records

Number of Ballon d'Or: 6

Number of goals scored in La Liga: 444

Record number of goals scored in one season in a major league: 50 (2011-2012)

All time top scorer for Argentina: 70 (2006-19)

Number of goals scored in a calendar year in all-competitions: 91 (2012)&nbsp;

Number of goals scored in a season in all competitions: 73 (2011-2012)

Will Lionel Messi really leave Barcelona? Is it even possible? Well, Messi leaving Barca never looked as close. The year 2020 has brought many surprises and shocks, and Messi departing from the Nou Camp could very well be the final nail in the coffin in the beautiful love story between the Argentine maestro and the Catalan club.

Will Lionel Messi really leave Barcelona? Is it even possible? Well, Messi leaving Barca never looked as close. The year 2020 has brought many surprises and shocks, and Messi departing from the Nou Camp could very well be the final nail in the coffin in the beautiful love story between the Argentine maestro and the Catalan club. Fed up with board politics and how the club has been performing on the pitch, Messi on Tuesday handed in a transfer request to Barcelona board requesting them to release him of his duties. Interestingly, Messi has a EUR 700 million release clause but another crucial clause in his contract states he can leave the club for free after the end of every season. With COVID-19 pandemic and the financial hardship clubs had to face, it is near to impossible that any club with shell out EUR 700 million but will Messi leave the Spanish giants for free? Apparently, Messi’s clause which allows him to leave for free ended on May 31, 2020 but the entourage of the six-time Ballon d’Or winner argues that the season was extended due to the shutdown and restart and hence, the clause remains active. What’s next? A legal battle may follow if Messi pushes his exit. IN PICS | Stay or go? Messi in legal tangle with Barcelona over leaving club 🎥 Dozens of fans in front of the club's offices showing their disagreements with the board with several shouts. @esport3 #FCB pic.twitter.com/t0tQBKNHut — Hagrid ✆ (@HagridFCB) August 25, 2020 × Messi on Tuesday sent a fax to Barcelona asking them to allow him to leave the club. Tweets from Catalan President Quim Torra i Pla, club legend Carles Puyol confirmed that if Messi were to leave Barca then it is now or never. Fans started to gather outside Barcelona offices, chanting 'Bartomeu out' and that sums up the seriousness of the entire matter. Respeto y admiración, Leo. Todo mi apoyo, amigo. — Carles Puyol (@Carles5puyol) August 25, 2020 × Barcelona have not been the same on the football pitch since the departure of Pep Guardiola. While Tito Vilanova tried to continue Guardiola’s legacy, his untimely demise due to cancer left everyone in shock. Gerardo Martino, Luis Enrique, Ernesto Valverde and Quique Setien came and went. ALSO READ: Lionel Messi hands in his transfer request to Barcelona Catalunya serà sempre casa teva. Moltes gràcies per tots aquest temps de felicitat i d’un futbol extraordinari. Hem tingut la sort de compartir uns anys de les nostres vides amb el millor jugador del món. I un noble esportista No t’oblidarem mai. Leo Messi, Creu de Sant Jordi. pic.twitter.com/Ojev577MoE — Quim Torra i Pla (@QuimTorraiPla) August 25, 2020 × While many will argue Barcelona won good number of trophies under Enrique but it was largely due to the epic troika of Neymar-Suarez-Messi. Players were unhappy with how the team performed in the UEFA Champions League and managers were continued to be sacked. The defeats against AS Roma, Liverpool didn’t help their case and the humiliating 8-2 defeat to Bayern Munich felt like the house of cards could just crumble and it did. Ronald Koeman, a Barcelona legend, was appointed as the manager but the way he is approaching the senior players to discuss about their roles in the club has played a role in the fallout. Koeman, apparently, told Suarez that he is not needed in the club over a phone call. Sergio Busquets was told he would not have a key role in the club next season. Messi was reportedly told by Koeman that ‘privileges’ are over. Something which may have irked the Argentine megastar. Bartomeu’s presence as club president hasn’t had a long-lasting impact – on the squad and financially. The club is in debt, the big buys of Philippe Coutinho and Ousmane Dembele haven’t worked out. Neymar has left the club and was never bought back despite heavy interest from both sides. Messi felt enough is enough. ALSO READ: Will Lionel Messi leave Barcelona? Man City 'crunching numbers' for Argentine maestro Messi wants a winning project where he can continue to win trophies and satisfy the hunger he has developed over the years. And this time, Messi is serious about leaving the club. He doesn’t trust the board. He doesn’t see them competent enough to turn the situation around. He sees them unable to assemble a good squad. Everything seems to point that Messi is leaving Barcelona. Only few clubs can afford to have Messi on their wage-sheet. Barcelona pay him around £60 million annually. Even if Messi leaves for free, his wage could be an issue for clubs interested in acquiring his services. Paris Saint-Germain or Manchester City are the only two clubs capable of paying that amount of money. Man City have an advantage as they have Pep Guardiola as managers while Txiki Begiristain and Ferran Soriano, club director and CEO respectively of Man City, have also worked with Messi during their time at Barcelona. The Catalan club likes two players in Eric Garcia and Gabriel Jesus and if Messi is to join Barcelona then these two players can leave Etihad Stadium for Nou Camp. Reportedly, Messi has even had a phone call with Guardiola and Sergio Aguero, his best-friend since early footballing days. Barcelona board’s presidential elections are also around the corner and the candidates battling for the top chair have call for immediate resignation by Bartomeu. Jordi Farre, another presidential candidate, on Wednesday, filed a vote of no confidence against Bartomeu with a view that his resignation could just force Messi to change his decision. But will he? While Cristiano Ronaldo have found success despite changing clubs, Messi may be thinking it is time to take up a new challenge and freshen up things. But the question remains, will the year 2020 bring the biggest transfer news of all time? LIONEL MESSI in numbers: International Honours 2005: U-20 world champion 2008: Olympic gold Club honours Champions League: (2006, 2009, 2011, 2015) La Liga titles: (2005, 2006, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2013, 2015, 2016, 2018, 2019) Copa del Rey: 2009, 2012, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018) European Super Cup: (2009-2010, 2011-2012, 2015-2016) Spanish Super Cup: (2005-2006, 2006-2007, 2009-2010, 2010-2011, 2011-2012, 2013-2014, 2016-2017, 2018-2019) World Club: (2009-2010, 2011-2012, 2015-2016) Individual honours Ballons d'Or: (2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2019) UEFA's best European player of the season: (2011, 2015) World Cup Golden Ball best player award: 2014 Best Copa America player: 2015 Top Champions League scorer: (2008-2009: 9 goals; 2009-2010: 8; 2010-2011: 12; 2011-2012: 14; 2014-2015: 10, 2018-2019: 12) Top La Liga scorer: (2009-2010: 34 goals, 2011-2012: 50, 2012-2013: 46, 2016-2017: 37, 2017-2018: 34, 2018-2019: 36, 2019-20: 25) Best player at an Olympics: 2008 Best player at U-20 World Cup: 2005 Records Number of Ballon d'Or: 6 Number of goals scored in La Liga: 444 Record number of goals scored in one season in a major league: 50 (2011-2012) All time top scorer for Argentina: 70 (2006-19) Number of goals scored in a calendar year in all-competitions: 91 (2012) Number of goals scored in a season in all competitions: 73 (2011-2012)

Adios, Lionel Messi?

Manchester City left back Oleksandr Zinchenko set aside some time on his wedding day to clarify comments he and his new bride Vlada Sedan made about manager Pep Guardiola in the wake of the club’s Champions League defeat by Olympique Lyon.

Television reporter Sedan delivered a scathing assessment of Guardiola’s tactics and posted an interview with Zinchenko to her YouTube channel after City crashed out in the quarter-finals with a 3-1 loss.

The video prompted an angry response from City supporters and Zinchenko took to social media to defend his comments.

“First of all, I didn’t say anything bad or judgmental about our tactics so don’t confuse my words please,” he said in a lengthy Instagram post.

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/bayern-munich-10-psg-uefa-champions-league-final-all-the-action-in-pictures-322813">Bayern Munich 1:0 PSG, UEFA Champions League Final: All the action in pictures</a>

“On the night we lost to Lyon that doesn’t mean the manager was wrong to try. If you have seen my interviews in the past and the way how I talk about our manager then you can believe me. He’s number one.

“Second one about my wife. Although she is a journalist, she is also a fan ... in the video you can see her emotions straight after the game and she gave an opinion like all fans do because she wanted us to do better.

“I’m writing right now from my wedding and instead of enjoying that unbelievable moment I have to do this because I can’t skip it and leave it like that.”

Manchester City left back Oleksandr Zinchenko set aside some time on his wedding day to clarify comments he and his new bride Vlada Sedan made about manager Pep Guardiola in the wake of the club’s Champions League defeat by Olympique Lyon.

Manchester City left back Oleksandr Zinchenko set aside some time on his wedding day to clarify comments he and his new bride Vlada Sedan made about manager Pep Guardiola in the wake of the club’s Champions League defeat by Olympique Lyon. Television reporter Sedan delivered a scathing assessment of Guardiola’s tactics and posted an interview with Zinchenko to her YouTube channel after City crashed out in the quarter-finals with a 3-1 loss. The video prompted an angry response from City supporters and Zinchenko took to social media to defend his comments. “First of all, I didn’t say anything bad or judgmental about our tactics so don’t confuse my words please,” he said in a lengthy Instagram post. IN PICS | Bayern Munich 1:0 PSG, UEFA Champions League Final: All the action in pictures “On the night we lost to Lyon that doesn’t mean the manager was wrong to try. If you have seen my interviews in the past and the way how I talk about our manager then you can believe me. He’s number one. “Second one about my wife. Although she is a journalist, she is also a fan ... in the video you can see her emotions straight after the game and she gave an opinion like all fans do because she wanted us to do better. “I’m writing right now from my wedding and instead of enjoying that unbelievable moment I have to do this because I can’t skip it and leave it like that.”

Manchester City's Zinchenko interrupts wedding day to clarify Guardiola comments

England coach Chris Silverwood urged his side to "finish strong" and help get James Anderson to 600 Test wickets following a frustrating day against Pakistan at Southampton on Monday.

Anderson was left just one shy of becoming only the fourth bowler to reach the landmark figure as a combination of poor catching, bad weather and determined Pakistan batting thwarted him on the fourth day of the third Test.

Anderson, denied an early breakthrough when Jos Buttler dropped a routine chance to reprieve Shan Masood, returned for a third spell late in the day to have opener Abid Ali lbw for 42 after Masood had fallen lbw, playing no shot, to Stuart Broad.

Abid's dismissal took the 38-year-old Anderson to 599 Test wickets.

But that was as good as it got for Anderson, who ended a day cut short by bad light and rain with 1-18 from 12 overs.

<h2>- 'Amazing feat' -</h2>

"It is a massive achievement," said Silverwood of Anderson's looming milestone. "To have two bowlers above 500 Test wickets (Anderson and Broad) and Jimmy closing in on 600 is an amazing feat."&nbsp;

England are 1-0 up in a three-Test campaign and on the verge of a first Test series win against Pakistan in a decade.

They beat the West Indies 2-1 in the preceding series that marked international cricket's return from lockdown and are about to conclude a programme of six Tests in seven weeks, all played behind closed doors because of the coronavirus pandemic.

"I'm very proud of how they've handled themselves, being locked up for the best part of 10 weeks in the 'bubble' -- their attitude and effort has been fantastic," said Silverwood.

"To finish strong tomorrow and see Jimmy get his 600th would be fantastic.&nbsp;I want to win the game. That's my first and foremost."

Pakistan following on, were 100-2 -- still 210 runs behind England's first innings 583-8 declared -- at the close.

Azhar Ali, the Pakistan captain, was 29 not out following his first-innings century and Babar Azam unbeaten on four.

Abid, who faced 162 balls, said: "England have a world-class bowling attack but the plan was to bat longer and that's what I did.&nbsp;

"I should have stayed longer.

"Azhar played a good knock in the first innings and Babar is there so we still have hope of finishing on a high," he added.

No paceman has yet reached the landmark figure of 600 Test wickets.

The only bowlers ahead of the 38-year-old Anderson in the all-time list are three retired spinners -- Sri Lanka's Muttiah Muralitharan (800), Australia's Shane Warne (708) and India's Anil Kumble (619).

Anderson started the day in sight of the select group after taking 5-56 -- his 29th five-wicket haul in 156 Tests -- during Pakistan's first-innings 273.

He might even have reached the landmark late on Sunday had not three catches been dropped off his bowling with the new ball.

Pakistan resumed a huge 310 runs behind a total built on Zak Crawley's 267 and Buttler's 152.

Azhar's superb 141 not out kept England at bay after Pakistan collapsed to 75-5 on Sunday.

And there was more frustration for England when Masood, on three, edged Anderson only for the ball to hit Buttler on the thigh as he failed to get his gloves to a chance far less difficult than several catches he held on Sunday.

"No one means to drop them," said Silverwood. "Last night was gloomy but it's still not an excuse.

"And Jos's wobbled horrible" as it came to him, Silverwood added.&nbsp;

"We're out there every morning. So it's not like they're not working on it (catching)."

England coach Chris Silverwood urged his side to "finish strong" and help get James Anderson to 600 Test wickets following a frustrating day against Pakistan at Southampton on Monday.

England coach Chris Silverwood urged his side to "finish strong" and help get James Anderson to 600 Test wickets following a frustrating day against Pakistan at Southampton on Monday. Anderson was left just one shy of becoming only the fourth bowler to reach the landmark figure as a combination of poor catching, bad weather and determined Pakistan batting thwarted him on the fourth day of the third Test. Anderson, denied an early breakthrough when Jos Buttler dropped a routine chance to reprieve Shan Masood, returned for a third spell late in the day to have opener Abid Ali lbw for 42 after Masood had fallen lbw, playing no shot, to Stuart Broad. Abid's dismissal took the 38-year-old Anderson to 599 Test wickets. But that was as good as it got for Anderson, who ended a day cut short by bad light and rain with 1-18 from 12 overs. - 'Amazing feat' - "It is a massive achievement," said Silverwood of Anderson's looming milestone. "To have two bowlers above 500 Test wickets (Anderson and Broad) and Jimmy closing in on 600 is an amazing feat." England are 1-0 up in a three-Test campaign and on the verge of a first Test series win against Pakistan in a decade. They beat the West Indies 2-1 in the preceding series that marked international cricket's return from lockdown and are about to conclude a programme of six Tests in seven weeks, all played behind closed doors because of the coronavirus pandemic. "I'm very proud of how they've handled themselves, being locked up for the best part of 10 weeks in the 'bubble' -- their attitude and effort has been fantastic," said Silverwood. "To finish strong tomorrow and see Jimmy get his 600th would be fantastic. I want to win the game. That's my first and foremost." Pakistan following on, were 100-2 -- still 210 runs behind England's first innings 583-8 declared -- at the close. Azhar Ali, the Pakistan captain, was 29 not out following his first-innings century and Babar Azam unbeaten on four. Abid, who faced 162 balls, said: "England have a world-class bowling attack but the plan was to bat longer and that's what I did. "I should have stayed longer. "Azhar played a good knock in the first innings and Babar is there so we still have hope of finishing on a high," he added. No paceman has yet reached the landmark figure of 600 Test wickets. The only bowlers ahead of the 38-year-old Anderson in the all-time list are three retired spinners -- Sri Lanka's Muttiah Muralitharan (800), Australia's Shane Warne (708) and India's Anil Kumble (619). Anderson started the day in sight of the select group after taking 5-56 -- his 29th five-wicket haul in 156 Tests -- during Pakistan's first-innings 273. He might even have reached the landmark late on Sunday had not three catches been dropped off his bowling with the new ball. Pakistan resumed a huge 310 runs behind a total built on Zak Crawley's 267 and Buttler's 152. Azhar's superb 141 not out kept England at bay after Pakistan collapsed to 75-5 on Sunday. And there was more frustration for England when Masood, on three, edged Anderson only for the ball to hit Buttler on the thigh as he failed to get his gloves to a chance far less difficult than several catches he held on Sunday. "No one means to drop them," said Silverwood. "Last night was gloomy but it's still not an excuse. "And Jos's wobbled horrible" as it came to him, Silverwood added. "We're out there every morning. So it's not like they're not working on it (catching)."

Silverwood urges England to finish strong and see Anderson to 600th Test wickets

FIFA on Monday relaxed the rules on the release of players for the upcoming international window "in light of the recent evolution of the coronavirus pandemic".

Clubs are usually obliged to release players to national teams during those parts of the calendar reserved for international games, however quarantine rules in many countries will make travel impractical, FIFA said in a statement.

"Many national governments have again implemented travel and immigration restrictions due to a renewed increase in COVID-19 infections. Some of these measures directly impact international competition, such as mandatory periods of quarantine or self-isolation and travel restrictions," the statement explained.&nbsp;

Clubs will not &nbsp;be obliged to release their players if there is a mandatory quarantine in the country where the club is based,in the country where the international will take place or there are travel restrictions between the two locations and there are no specific exemptions for the players.&nbsp;

The ruling applies to the men's international window from August 31 to September 8 and the women's window from September 14-22.

FIFA had already decided that internationals in those slots &nbsp;could only take place in Europe.&nbsp;

FIFA on Monday relaxed the rules on the release of players for the upcoming international window "in light of the recent evolution of the coronavirus pandemic". Clubs are usually obliged to release players to national teams during those parts of the calendar reserved for international games, however quarantine rules in many countries will make travel impractical, FIFA said in a statement.

FIFA on Monday relaxed the rules on the release of players for the upcoming international window "in light of the recent evolution of the coronavirus pandemic". Clubs are usually obliged to release players to national teams during those parts of the calendar reserved for international games, however quarantine rules in many countries will make travel impractical, FIFA said in a statement. "Many national governments have again implemented travel and immigration restrictions due to a renewed increase in COVID-19 infections. Some of these measures directly impact international competition, such as mandatory periods of quarantine or self-isolation and travel restrictions," the statement explained. Clubs will not be obliged to release their players if there is a mandatory quarantine in the country where the club is based,in the country where the international will take place or there are travel restrictions between the two locations and there are no specific exemptions for the players. The ruling applies to the men's international window from August 31 to September 8 and the women's window from September 14-22. FIFA had already decided that internationals in those slots could only take place in Europe.

FIFA relaxes rules on release of players for internationals

Fourth-seeded Naomi Osaka of Japan battled back to beat Karolina Muchova 6-7 (5/7), 6-4, 6-2 on Monday and reach the third round of the Western &amp; Southern Open.

Osaka, ranked 10th in the world, was playing her first match since the WTA resumed after a coronavirus hiatus.

The tournament was moved this year from Cincinnati to the National Tennis Center in New York to allow players to enter the same quarantine bubble that will be in effect for the US Open starting on August 31.

Osaka will face another tough challenge in the third round against 16th-seeded Ukrainian Dayana Yastremska, who beat American Bernarda Pera 7-6 (7/5), 4-6, 6-3 on Monday after downing seven-time Grand Slam champion Venus Williams in the first round.

Fourth-seeded Naomi Osaka of Japan battled back to beat Karolina Muchova 6-7 (5/7), 6-4, 6-2 on Monday and reach the third round of the Western & Southern Open. Osaka, ranked 10th in the world, was playing her first match since the WTA resumed after a coronavirus hiatus.

Fourth-seeded Naomi Osaka of Japan battled back to beat Karolina Muchova 6-7 (5/7), 6-4, 6-2 on Monday and reach the third round of the Western & Southern Open. Osaka, ranked 10th in the world, was playing her first match since the WTA resumed after a coronavirus hiatus. The tournament was moved this year from Cincinnati to the National Tennis Center in New York to allow players to enter the same quarantine bubble that will be in effect for the US Open starting on August 31. Osaka will face another tough challenge in the third round against 16th-seeded Ukrainian Dayana Yastremska, who beat American Bernarda Pera 7-6 (7/5), 4-6, 6-3 on Monday after downing seven-time Grand Slam champion Venus Williams in the first round.

Osaka rallies to reach third round of 'Cincy in New York'

World number one Novak Djokovic shook off neck pain to beat Ricardas Berankis 7-6 (7/2), 6-4 on Monday to reach the third round of the Western &amp; Southern Open.

The Serb star had pulled out of doubles on Sunday with pain in his neck, and he had treatment during the match for a problem that seemed to bother him when he looked up at his service toss.

Twice down a break in the second set he was able to immediately break back both times, and he let out a roar when he broke Lithuania's Berankis for a 5-4 lead before calmly serving out the match.

In the round of 16 on Tuesday, Djokovic will face American Tennys Sandgren, a 6-7 (4/7), 6-2, 7-6 (7/5) winner over 15th-seeded Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime in this tournament moved from Cincinnati to New York and the same quarantine bubble that will house the US Open starting on August 31.

World number one Novak Djokovic shook off neck pain to beat Ricardas Berankis 7-6 (7/2), 6-4 on Monday to reach the third round of the Western & Southern Open. The Serb star had pulled out of doubles on Sunday with pain in his neck, and he had treatment during the match for a problem that seemed to bother him when he looked up at his service toss.

World number one Novak Djokovic shook off neck pain to beat Ricardas Berankis 7-6 (7/2), 6-4 on Monday to reach the third round of the Western & Southern Open. The Serb star had pulled out of doubles on Sunday with pain in his neck, and he had treatment during the match for a problem that seemed to bother him when he looked up at his service toss. Twice down a break in the second set he was able to immediately break back both times, and he let out a roar when he broke Lithuania's Berankis for a 5-4 lead before calmly serving out the match. In the round of 16 on Tuesday, Djokovic will face American Tennys Sandgren, a 6-7 (4/7), 6-2, 7-6 (7/5) winner over 15th-seeded Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime in this tournament moved from Cincinnati to New York and the same quarantine bubble that will house the US Open starting on August 31.

Djokovic shrugs off injury to win NY opener

James Anderson on Tuesday became the first fast bowler and fourth bowler overall to pick up 600 Test wickets after the veteran England seamer dismissed Pakistan captain Azhar Ali to achieve the landmark at the Rose Bowl in Southampton.&nbsp;

Others in the list to have picked up 600 Test wickets or more are: Muttiah Muralitharan (800), Shane Warne (708) and Anil Kumble (619)

Anderson, who scalped a fifer in the first innings of the ongoing third Test against Pakistan, had to wait long for his 600th Test wicket after rain gods disrupted the flow of the game on Day 4 and aided to delayed start on Day 5 of the game.&nbsp;

<img alt="James Anderson" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="39ddf1b0-c9de-4f38-b727-4f75f6c9a4ef" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1WQ87B.jpg" />

<h2>James Anderson in Test cricket:</h2>

<ul>
	<li>100th Wicket – Kallis</li>
	<li>200th Wicket - Siddle</li>
	<li>300th Wicket - Fulton</li>
	<li>400th Wicket - Guptill</li>
	<li>500th Wicket - Brathwaite</li>
	<li>600th Wicket - Azhar Ali*</li>
</ul>

However, it didn’t take long for Anderson to complete the historic achievement as the England pacer bowled a length delivery only for Ali to edge it straight to Joe Root in the slip cordon as the English skipper took a comfortable reverse cup.&nbsp;

<h2>600th Test victim of bowlers:</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Shane Warne - Marcus Trescothick in 2005</li>
	<li>Muralitharan - Khaled Mashud in 2006</li>
	<li>Anil Kumble - Andrew Symonds in 2008</li>
	<li>James Anderson - Azhar Ali in 2020</li>
</ul>

Anderson is regarded as one of the greatest pacers to have taken to the cricket field. While there may be some arguments that he hasn’t shine in sub-continents, statistics show he have turned around the theory since learning the trick of reverse swing after 2010.&nbsp;

<h2>Balls to 600th Test wicket &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</h2>

<ul>
	<li>33711 M Muralitharan</li>
	<li>33717 James Anderson</li>
	<li>34919 Shane Warne</li>
	<li>38496 Anil Kumble</li>
</ul>

The King of Swing has been a legendary servant for England cricket and have always lived up to the expectations and the latest achievement just prove how valuable Anderson has been to England and international cricket.&nbsp;

James Anderson on Tuesday became the first fast bowler and fourth bowler overall to pick up 600 Test wickets after the veteran England seamer dismissed Pakistan captain Azhar Ali to achieve the landmark at the Rose Bowl in Southampton.

James Anderson on Tuesday became the first fast bowler and fourth bowler overall to pick up 600 Test wickets after the veteran England seamer dismissed Pakistan captain Azhar Ali to achieve the landmark at the Rose Bowl in Southampton. Others in the list to have picked up 600 Test wickets or more are: Muttiah Muralitharan (800), Shane Warne (708) and Anil Kumble (619) Anderson, who scalped a fifer in the first innings of the ongoing third Test against Pakistan, had to wait long for his 600th Test wicket after rain gods disrupted the flow of the game on Day 4 and aided to delayed start on Day 5 of the game. James Anderson in Test cricket: 100th Wicket – Kallis 200th Wicket - Siddle 300th Wicket - Fulton 400th Wicket - Guptill 500th Wicket - Brathwaite 600th Wicket - Azhar Ali* However, it didn’t take long for Anderson to complete the historic achievement as the England pacer bowled a length delivery only for Ali to edge it straight to Joe Root in the slip cordon as the English skipper took a comfortable reverse cup. 600th Test victim of bowlers: Shane Warne - Marcus Trescothick in 2005 Muralitharan - Khaled Mashud in 2006 Anil Kumble - Andrew Symonds in 2008 James Anderson - Azhar Ali in 2020 Anderson is regarded as one of the greatest pacers to have taken to the cricket field. While there may be some arguments that he hasn’t shine in sub-continents, statistics show he have turned around the theory since learning the trick of reverse swing after 2010. Balls to 600th Test wicket 33711 M Muralitharan 33717 James Anderson 34919 Shane Warne 38496 Anil Kumble The King of Swing has been a legendary servant for England cricket and have always lived up to the expectations and the latest achievement just prove how valuable Anderson has been to England and international cricket.

James Anderson becomes first pacer and fourth bowler to scalp 600 Test wickets

Australian spin legend Shane Warne has given an interesting suggestion to prolong James Anderson’s career by saying England should turn the right-arm seamer into a coach during away tours while playing him in home matches.&nbsp;

Anderson, who is at 599 Test wickets, is just a scalp away from becoming the fourth bowler to bag 600 Test wickets and the first pacer to the milestone but many have been talking about how long he can resist at the highest level.&nbsp;

Warne, who has 708 Test wickets to his name, is among the three men to go past the 600-Test wickets milestone and suggested that there might be a way to protect the legend of Anderson.&nbsp;

"Watching Jimmy [James Anderson], he's a class act. I'm interested to see how things pan out now he's 38," Shane Warne told Sky Sports.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tendulkar-comes-to-aid-of-ailing-ashraf-who-once-fixed-his-bats-323024" hreflang="en">Tendulkar comes to aid of ailing Ashraf who once fixed his bats</a>

Terming Anderson as "unplayable" in English conditions, Warne suggested, “You want Jimmy to play as long as he possibly can, so is there a way he could be bowling coach away from home? Then, in England, you say 'we want you to play for another three or four years.

"If you're picking your side here [in England], Anderson is your first pencilled in. Is he your first pencilled in overseas? I'm not sure.”

"How do you prolong his career? Is it to not play away and only in England? Or is it he's so good, you want him for every Test you play anywhere.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-mens-cwc-challenge-league-a-postponed-323017" hreflang="en">ICC Men's CWC Challenge League A postponed</a>

"I'm not sure what the right thing is to do. Jimmy is probably the only one that can answer that,” Warne said.

On the much-talked-about topic of retirement, Warne, who retired from Test cricket in 2007 at the age of 37 said, “That's the best thing - to go out on top, when people think you can still play for longer. Because then they miss what you brought to the table, miss watching you play.

"If you play too long, people start saying, 'he should retire, he's not at his best'.” 
&nbsp;

Australian spin legend Shane Warne has given an interesting suggestion to prolong James Anderson’s career by saying England should turn the right-arm seamer into a coach during away tours while playing him in home matches.

Australian spin legend Shane Warne has given an interesting suggestion to prolong James Anderson’s career by saying England should turn the right-arm seamer into a coach during away tours while playing him in home matches. Anderson, who is at 599 Test wickets, is just a scalp away from becoming the fourth bowler to bag 600 Test wickets and the first pacer to the milestone but many have been talking about how long he can resist at the highest level. Warne, who has 708 Test wickets to his name, is among the three men to go past the 600-Test wickets milestone and suggested that there might be a way to protect the legend of Anderson. "Watching Jimmy [James Anderson], he's a class act. I'm interested to see how things pan out now he's 38," Shane Warne told Sky Sports. ALSO READ: Tendulkar comes to aid of ailing Ashraf who once fixed his bats Terming Anderson as "unplayable" in English conditions, Warne suggested, “You want Jimmy to play as long as he possibly can, so is there a way he could be bowling coach away from home? Then, in England, you say 'we want you to play for another three or four years. "If you're picking your side here [in England], Anderson is your first pencilled in. Is he your first pencilled in overseas? I'm not sure.” "How do you prolong his career? Is it to not play away and only in England? Or is it he's so good, you want him for every Test you play anywhere. ALSO READ: ICC Men's CWC Challenge League A postponed "I'm not sure what the right thing is to do. Jimmy is probably the only one that can answer that,” Warne said. On the much-talked-about topic of retirement, Warne, who retired from Test cricket in 2007 at the age of 37 said, “That's the best thing - to go out on top, when people think you can still play for longer. Because then they miss what you brought to the table, miss watching you play. "If you play too long, people start saying, 'he should retire, he's not at his best'.”

Player in England, bowling coach for away tour: Warne's suggestion to prolong Anderson's career

Fans will be back inside the stadiums as UEFA on Tuesday announced that Super Cup match between Bayern Munich and Sevilla, scheduled to be held in Budapest on September 24 won’t be played behind closed doors.

With all games in the recent <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/uefa-champions-league">Champions League</a> and Europa League final-stage mini-tournaments were held in front of empty stands, UEFA’s executive committee agreed to the idea of having 30 per cent of the 67,215 capacity Puskas Arena in Budapest can be allotted to the fans.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-2019-20-psg-become-the-most-tweeted-about-team-on-twitter-323003" hreflang="en">Champions League 2019-20: PSG become the most Tweeted about team on Twitter</a>

However, UEFA said that all other matches under the governing body, including the upcoming Nation League matches and club competition qualifiers, will continue to be held behind closed doors until further notice.

However, it is still unclear whether travelling supporters will be able to attend the UEFA Super Cup or only local fans will be allowed with the European body viewing the match as the best test for their ‘Return to Play’ plans.&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/bayern-munich-10-psg-uefa-champions-league-final-all-the-action-in-pictures-322813">Bayern Munich 1:0 PSG, UEFA Champions League Final: All the action in pictures</a>

“While it has been important to show that football can carry on in difficult times, without fans, the game has lost something of its character. We hope to use the UEFA Super Cup in Budapest as a pilot that will begin to see the return of fans to our matches,” said UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/harry-maguire-and-victor-lindelof-contrasting-tales-of-two-manchester-united-defenders-322998" hreflang="en">Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof: Contrasting tales of two Manchester United defenders</a>

“We are working closely with the Hungarian Federation and its government to implement measures to ensure the health of all those attending and participating in the game. We will not take risks with people’s safety,” he added.

The UEFA Super Cup is traditionally Europa’s international club season opener, featuring previous season’s Champions League winner against the Europa League winner. While Bayern Munich defeated PSG in the Champions League, Sevilla overcame Inter Milan to lift the Europa League.&nbsp;

Bayern Munich versus Sevilla is scheduled to be held in Budapest on September 24. 
&nbsp;

Fans will be back inside the stadiums as UEFA on Tuesday announced that Super Cup match between Bayern Munich and Sevilla, scheduled to be held in Budapest on September 24 won’t be played behind closed doors.

Fans will be back inside the stadiums as UEFA on Tuesday announced that Super Cup match between Bayern Munich and Sevilla, scheduled to be held in Budapest on September 24 won’t be played behind closed doors. With all games in the recent Champions League and Europa League final-stage mini-tournaments were held in front of empty stands, UEFA’s executive committee agreed to the idea of having 30 per cent of the 67,215 capacity Puskas Arena in Budapest can be allotted to the fans. ALSO READ: Champions League 2019-20: PSG become the most Tweeted about team on Twitter However, UEFA said that all other matches under the governing body, including the upcoming Nation League matches and club competition qualifiers, will continue to be held behind closed doors until further notice. However, it is still unclear whether travelling supporters will be able to attend the UEFA Super Cup or only local fans will be allowed with the European body viewing the match as the best test for their ‘Return to Play’ plans. IN PICS | Bayern Munich 1:0 PSG, UEFA Champions League Final: All the action in pictures “While it has been important to show that football can carry on in difficult times, without fans, the game has lost something of its character. We hope to use the UEFA Super Cup in Budapest as a pilot that will begin to see the return of fans to our matches,” said UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin. ALSO READ: Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof: Contrasting tales of two Manchester United defenders “We are working closely with the Hungarian Federation and its government to implement measures to ensure the health of all those attending and participating in the game. We will not take risks with people’s safety,” he added. The UEFA Super Cup is traditionally Europa’s international club season opener, featuring previous season’s Champions League winner against the Europa League winner. While Bayern Munich defeated PSG in the Champions League, Sevilla overcame Inter Milan to lift the Europa League. Bayern Munich versus Sevilla is scheduled to be held in Budapest on September 24.

Bayern Munich vs Sevilla: UEFA to allow fans to attend Super Cup in Budapest

Officials of BCCI's state units won't be able to attend "at least the beginning" of the IPL because of the strict bio-bubble in place for the tournament beginning September 19 in the UAE, board secretary Jay Shah informed the member associations on Tuesday.

Shah is confident that by the business end of the tournament, some of the travel restrictions will be relaxed, making it easier for members to travel to the UAE. The IPL final will be played on November 10.

BCCI inviting officials from its state units for the IPL ceremony and play-offs is conventional practice it follows, whether the tournament is held in India or abroad.

"While I am confident that we would be able to deliver a memorable tournament, I will be approaching the start of the tournament with a heavy heart as your absence would render the opening incomplete," BCCI secretary Shah wrote in an email to state units, which is in possession of PTI.

"As you are aware, the BCCI invites its former Office Bearers and the Presidents and Secretaries of all its state units to the IPL opening game and league matches as well as for the finals," Shah wrote.

The tournament is taking place in the UAE due to the COVID-19 situation in India and anyone part of the event needs to strictly adhere to the guidelines issued by the BCCI. At the moment, all teams are undergoing a mandatory six-day quarantine following their arrival last week.

"...Owing to some stringent restrictions on the movement of people and on account of the protocols put in place by us which includes the creation of several bio-secure bubbles to minimize the damage caused by COVID-19, we would not be able to have our annual gathering, at least at the beginning of the tournament," Shah wrote.

"The restriction on physical presence is the best way to avoid contracting and spreading the deadly virus and after a long-fought battle, this is yet another sacrifice that we are forced to make," the board secretary further wrote.

Shah made it clear that if situation improves in November, the members could be invited for the play-offs.

"I am hopeful that till the time we reach the playoff week, we would have more relaxations on travel and interactions, which would allow us to have you all travel to the UAE," Shah assured.

He agreed that IPL is also a forum for discussing all board related matters.

"Over the years, the IPL games have proved to be a fantastic platform for all of us to get together to witness some exhilarating cricket and also to exchange thoughts and ideas about the upcoming season and discuss matters related to the Board.

"However, as we take our first steps towards the resumption of cricket, let me assure you that we are pulling out all stops and making every effort to secure your presence for the crucial playoff stage of the IPL," Shah said.

Shah also thanked the members for pulling through in these tough times.

"Lastly, I wish to apprise you about the fact that we are aware of the difficulties that you are facing in these times and I assure you that all necessary steps would be taken by us in consultation with you, to alleviate those difficulties at the appropriate stage.

"The strength of the BCCI lies in its members and the matters of policy would only be firmed up with your inputs and upon the approval of the General Body," Shah concluded.&nbsp;

Officials of BCCI's state units won't be able to attend "at least the beginning" of the IPL because of the strict bio-bubble in place for the tournament beginning September 19 in the UAE, board secretary Jay Shah informed the member associations on Tuesday.

Officials of BCCI's state units won't be able to attend "at least the beginning" of the IPL because of the strict bio-bubble in place for the tournament beginning September 19 in the UAE, board secretary Jay Shah informed the member associations on Tuesday. Shah is confident that by the business end of the tournament, some of the travel restrictions will be relaxed, making it easier for members to travel to the UAE. The IPL final will be played on November 10. BCCI inviting officials from its state units for the IPL ceremony and play-offs is conventional practice it follows, whether the tournament is held in India or abroad. "While I am confident that we would be able to deliver a memorable tournament, I will be approaching the start of the tournament with a heavy heart as your absence would render the opening incomplete," BCCI secretary Shah wrote in an email to state units, which is in possession of PTI. "As you are aware, the BCCI invites its former Office Bearers and the Presidents and Secretaries of all its state units to the IPL opening game and league matches as well as for the finals," Shah wrote. The tournament is taking place in the UAE due to the COVID-19 situation in India and anyone part of the event needs to strictly adhere to the guidelines issued by the BCCI. At the moment, all teams are undergoing a mandatory six-day quarantine following their arrival last week. "...Owing to some stringent restrictions on the movement of people and on account of the protocols put in place by us which includes the creation of several bio-secure bubbles to minimize the damage caused by COVID-19, we would not be able to have our annual gathering, at least at the beginning of the tournament," Shah wrote. "The restriction on physical presence is the best way to avoid contracting and spreading the deadly virus and after a long-fought battle, this is yet another sacrifice that we are forced to make," the board secretary further wrote. Shah made it clear that if situation improves in November, the members could be invited for the play-offs. "I am hopeful that till the time we reach the playoff week, we would have more relaxations on travel and interactions, which would allow us to have you all travel to the UAE," Shah assured. He agreed that IPL is also a forum for discussing all board related matters. "Over the years, the IPL games have proved to be a fantastic platform for all of us to get together to witness some exhilarating cricket and also to exchange thoughts and ideas about the upcoming season and discuss matters related to the Board. "However, as we take our first steps towards the resumption of cricket, let me assure you that we are pulling out all stops and making every effort to secure your presence for the crucial playoff stage of the IPL," Shah said. Shah also thanked the members for pulling through in these tough times. "Lastly, I wish to apprise you about the fact that we are aware of the difficulties that you are facing in these times and I assure you that all necessary steps would be taken by us in consultation with you, to alleviate those difficulties at the appropriate stage. "The strength of the BCCI lies in its members and the matters of policy would only be firmed up with your inputs and upon the approval of the General Body," Shah concluded.

Due to bio-bubble restrictions, unable to invite you for start of IPL: Jay Shah to state units

Ashraf Chaudhary once fixed his damaged bats and now Sachin Tendulkar has taken it upon himself to help the ailing bat repairer who has been hospitalised for considerable amount of time.

"Ashraf Chacha" as he is known in cricketing circles, has been admitted to the Savla hospital since last 12 days due to diabetes and midzone pneumonia related complications.

The bat maker's close friend Prashant Jethmalani, told PTI on Tuesday, "Tendulkar came forward and has spoken to Ashraf Chacha. He has also helped him financially. A major chunk of the finances has been donated by the legendary batsman."

Ashraf has fixed bats of several noted cricketers including Tendulkar, Virat Kohli but fell on hard times due to COVID-19 as both health and business took a beating.

He is an ever-present figure inside the Wankhede stadium during international and IPL matches.

Even international players like Australian Steve Smith, West Indian Chris Gayle and Kieron Pollard have all hit sixes with bats mended by Ashraf Chacha.

The bat maker owns a shop M Ashraf Bro, which is situated at Dhobi Talao in South Mumbai and there have been times when he has repaired bats for free just for his love for the game and the players.

Ashraf Chaudhary once fixed his damaged bats and now Sachin Tendulkar has taken it upon himself to help the ailing bat repairer who has been hospitalised for considerable amount of time.

Ashraf Chaudhary once fixed his damaged bats and now Sachin Tendulkar has taken it upon himself to help the ailing bat repairer who has been hospitalised for considerable amount of time. "Ashraf Chacha" as he is known in cricketing circles, has been admitted to the Savla hospital since last 12 days due to diabetes and midzone pneumonia related complications. The bat maker's close friend Prashant Jethmalani, told PTI on Tuesday, "Tendulkar came forward and has spoken to Ashraf Chacha. He has also helped him financially. A major chunk of the finances has been donated by the legendary batsman." Ashraf has fixed bats of several noted cricketers including Tendulkar, Virat Kohli but fell on hard times due to COVID-19 as both health and business took a beating. He is an ever-present figure inside the Wankhede stadium during international and IPL matches. Even international players like Australian Steve Smith, West Indian Chris Gayle and Kieron Pollard have all hit sixes with bats mended by Ashraf Chacha. The bat maker owns a shop M Ashraf Bro, which is situated at Dhobi Talao in South Mumbai and there have been times when he has repaired bats for free just for his love for the game and the players.

Tendulkar comes to aid of ailing Ashraf who once fixed his bats

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday announced the postponement of the second event of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Challenge League A due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

The second of three Challenge League A events which form part of the pathway to the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 was rescheduled from March and was due to take place between 30 September and 10 October in Malaysia.

As part of the ICC’s comprehensive contingency planning process across all ICC events and after consultation with Members and with the relevant government and public health authorities, the decision has been taken to postpone the fixtures.

Canada, Denmark, Malaysia, Qatar, Singapore, Vanuatu were due to play 15 List A matches aiming to gain points and places in the Challenge League A table. Canada currently top the table ahead of Singapore on net run rate, with both teams on eight points. At the completion of the Challenge League A fixtures, the top team will qualify for the Men’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier Play-Off. For more information on qualifying for the Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 click here.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nada-plans-to-conduct-50-tests-in-ipl-dhoni-kohlis-samples-could-be-taken-322984" hreflang="en">NADA plans to conduct 50 tests in IPL; Dhoni, Kohli's samples could be taken</a>

ICC Head of Events, Chris Tetley said: “We have decided to postpone the second series of the ICC Men’s CWC Challenge League A that was due to take place in Malaysia next month. The ICC’s priority continues to be to protect the well-being of players, coaches, officials, fans and the whole cricket community. As a result of this we have fully assessed the situation in partnership with the Malaysia Cricket Association and participating Members with ongoing international travel restrictions, global health concerns still prominent and on government and public health authority advice in relation to COVID-19 we have decided to postpone the event.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-chris-gayle-tests-negative-for-covid-19-after-attending-usain-bolts-birthday-bash-322951" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Chris Gayle tests negative for COVID-19 after attending Usain Bolt's birthday bash</a>

“With the additional time giving to us due to the rescheduling of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 to October and November of 2023, we will now work with hosts and participating Members to find an appropriate window where the qualification pathway fixtures can be safely and practically rescheduled.”

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday announced the postponement of the second event of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Challenge League A due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday announced the postponement of the second event of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Challenge League A due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The second of three Challenge League A events which form part of the pathway to the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 was rescheduled from March and was due to take place between 30 September and 10 October in Malaysia. As part of the ICC’s comprehensive contingency planning process across all ICC events and after consultation with Members and with the relevant government and public health authorities, the decision has been taken to postpone the fixtures. Canada, Denmark, Malaysia, Qatar, Singapore, Vanuatu were due to play 15 List A matches aiming to gain points and places in the Challenge League A table. Canada currently top the table ahead of Singapore on net run rate, with both teams on eight points. At the completion of the Challenge League A fixtures, the top team will qualify for the Men’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier Play-Off. For more information on qualifying for the Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 click here. ALSO READ: NADA plans to conduct 50 tests in IPL; Dhoni, Kohli's samples could be taken ICC Head of Events, Chris Tetley said: “We have decided to postpone the second series of the ICC Men’s CWC Challenge League A that was due to take place in Malaysia next month. The ICC’s priority continues to be to protect the well-being of players, coaches, officials, fans and the whole cricket community. As a result of this we have fully assessed the situation in partnership with the Malaysia Cricket Association and participating Members with ongoing international travel restrictions, global health concerns still prominent and on government and public health authority advice in relation to COVID-19 we have decided to postpone the event. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Chris Gayle tests negative for COVID-19 after attending Usain Bolt's birthday bash “With the additional time giving to us due to the rescheduling of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 to October and November of 2023, we will now work with hosts and participating Members to find an appropriate window where the qualification pathway fixtures can be safely and practically rescheduled.”

ICC Men's CWC Challenge League A postponed

Bayern Munich were crowned the champions of Europe for a sixth time when they defeated first-time finalists Paris Saint-Germain 1-0 in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/uefa-champions-league">UEFA Champions League</a> final at the Estadio da Luz in Lisbon on Sunday. <o:p></o:p>

Due to the pandemic, the matches were played without an audience, but the roar of fans was loud and clear on Twitter. While Bayern Munich won the trophy on ground, Paris Saint-Germain won the hearts off the field, becoming the most Tweeted team on Twitter globally. Manchester United and FC Barcelona were the two most Tweeted teams in India.

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/bayern-munich-10-psg-uefa-champions-league-final-all-the-action-in-pictures-322813" hreflang="en">Bayern Munich 1:0 PSG, UEFA Champions League Final: All the action in pictures</a>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Most Tweeted about teams (Globally):<o:p></o:p></h2>

<ol>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Paris Saint-Germain <o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">FC Barcelona <o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">FC Bayern Munich <o:p></o:p></li>
</ol>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Most Tweeted about teams (India):<o:p></o:p></h2>

1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Manchester United <o:p></o:p>

2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; FC Barcelona<o:p></o:p>

3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; FC Bayern Munich <o:p></o:p>

In this fixture, both the teams gave each other stiff competition, but Bayern edged past PSG, beating the French side 1-0 in the all-important game. <o:p></o:p>

Kingsley Coman scored a goal with a header just before the hour mark. PSG missed quite a few opportunities in the first half itself as Neymar, Angel Di Maria and Kylian Mbappe each failed to beat the veteran Bayern &amp; German shot-stopper Manuel Neuer from a relatively close range.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-bayern-munich-equal-barcelonas-treble-feat-322778" hreflang="en">Champions League: Bayern Munich equal Barcelona's 'treble' feat</a><o:p>&nbsp;&nbsp;</o:p>

This #UCLFinal clash between #PSGFCB was the most Tweeted match of this Champions League globally. Here are the most Tweeted about matches globally and in India:<o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Most Tweeted about matches (Globally):<o:p></o:p></h2>

<ol>
	<li class="MsoNormal">PSG vs FC Bayern Munich<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Barcelona vs FC Bayern Munich<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Atalanta vs PSG<o:p></o:p></li>
</ol>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Most Tweeted about matches (India):<o:p></o:p></h2>

<ol>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Barcelona vs Bayern Munich<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">PSG vs Bayern Munich<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Bayern Munich vs Chelsea<o:p></o:p></li>
</ol>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Top related Topics (India): <o:p></o:p><o:p>&nbsp;</o:p></h2>

Twitter has Topics across numerous interest categories that you can follow to see the best Tweets about what’s happening on the things that matter to you. The following Topics dominated India conversations for UEFA Champions League on Twitter: <o:p></o:p>

<ul>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Bruno Fernandes, <o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Jadon Sancho<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Paul Pogba<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Marcus Rashford<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">UEFA Europa League<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">UEFA Champions League<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Liverpool FC<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Chelsea<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Manchester United</li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Real Madrid CF <o:p></o:p></li>
</ul>

<o:p></o:p>

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/harry-maguire-and-victor-lindelof-contrasting-tales-of-two-manchester-united-defenders-322998" hreflang="en">Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof: Contrasting tales of two Manchester United defenders</a>

One can choose to follow these Topics and personalise their Twitter experience with relevant Tweets. From the profile menu, on the Home timeline, and in search results, one can see prompts to follow various Topics.<o:p></o:p>

Stay tuned to social media platform Twitter for more Football action and updates from on &amp; off the field, as the new season kick-starts next month, #OnlyOnTwitter.<o:p></o:p>

Bayern Munich were crowned the champions of Europe for a sixth time when they defeated first-time finalists Paris Saint-Germain 1-0 in the UEFA Champions League final at the Estadio da Luz in Lisbon on Sunday.

Bayern Munich were crowned the champions of Europe for a sixth time when they defeated first-time finalists Paris Saint-Germain 1-0 in the UEFA Champions League final at the Estadio da Luz in Lisbon on Sunday. Due to the pandemic, the matches were played without an audience, but the roar of fans was loud and clear on Twitter. While Bayern Munich won the trophy on ground, Paris Saint-Germain won the hearts off the field, becoming the most Tweeted team on Twitter globally. Manchester United and FC Barcelona were the two most Tweeted teams in India. IN PICS | Bayern Munich 1:0 PSG, UEFA Champions League Final: All the action in pictures Most Tweeted about teams (Globally): Paris Saint-Germain FC Barcelona FC Bayern Munich Most Tweeted about teams (India): 1. Manchester United 2. FC Barcelona 3. FC Bayern Munich In this fixture, both the teams gave each other stiff competition, but Bayern edged past PSG, beating the French side 1-0 in the all-important game. Kingsley Coman scored a goal with a header just before the hour mark. PSG missed quite a few opportunities in the first half itself as Neymar, Angel Di Maria and Kylian Mbappe each failed to beat the veteran Bayern & German shot-stopper Manuel Neuer from a relatively close range. ALSO READ: Champions League: Bayern Munich equal Barcelona's 'treble' feat This #UCLFinal clash between #PSGFCB was the most Tweeted match of this Champions League globally. Here are the most Tweeted about matches globally and in India: Most Tweeted about matches (Globally): PSG vs FC Bayern Munich Barcelona vs FC Bayern Munich Atalanta vs PSG Most Tweeted about matches (India): Barcelona vs Bayern Munich PSG vs Bayern Munich Bayern Munich vs Chelsea Top related Topics (India): Twitter has Topics across numerous interest categories that you can follow to see the best Tweets about what’s happening on the things that matter to you. The following Topics dominated India conversations for UEFA Champions League on Twitter: Bruno Fernandes, Jadon Sancho Paul Pogba Marcus Rashford UEFA Europa League UEFA Champions League Liverpool FC Chelsea Manchester United Real Madrid CF ALSO READ: Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof: Contrasting tales of two Manchester United defenders One can choose to follow these Topics and personalise their Twitter experience with relevant Tweets. From the profile menu, on the Home timeline, and in search results, one can see prompts to follow various Topics. Stay tuned to social media platform Twitter for more Football action and updates from on & off the field, as the new season kick-starts next month, #OnlyOnTwitter.

Champions League 2019-20: PSG become the most Tweeted about team on Twitter

Manchester United may have finished the Premier League 2019-20 season in top four while securing the UEFA Champions League spot for the next season but their off season stories have taken sharp turns with both the centre-backs Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof being the central to two completely contrasting tales.&nbsp;

Lindelof made a timely intervention by chasing down a man who stole an elderly woman’s handbag in his home city of Vasteras on Monday. A police statement said that the suspect snatched the handbag of the elderly woman as he cycled past her. However,

Lindelof chased and caught the man before handing him over to the concerned authorities.&nbsp;

“A man who was in the vicinity is said to have run after the suspected perpetrator, caught up with him and held him until the police arrived at the scene,” the police said without naming the 26-year-old Lindelof.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ronaldinho-released-from-paraguay-after-five-months-of-detention-322946" hreflang="en">Ronaldinho released from Paraguay after five months of detention</a>

“The police would like to take this opportunity to thank the witness for a quick and sensible intervention to restore the plaintiff’s property.”

Lindelof, who joined United from Portuguese side Benfica in 2017, started 35 Premier League games in the 2019-20 season as they finished third.

<h2>Maguire in trouble</h2>

Whereas in a completely contrasting story of other Manchester United defender and captain Harry Maguire, the England international spent two nights in police custody after he was arrested during a holiday with family and friends on the Greek island of Mykonos after charges of aggravated assault and attempted bribery to a police officer.

Police said there had been an altercation and exchange of words with an officer who tried to intervene a fight. However, Maguire has denied charges of assault and attempted bribery.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-lionel-messi-leave-barcelona-man-city-crunching-numbers-for-argentine-maestro-322969" hreflang="en">Will Lionel Messi leave Barcelona? Man City 'crunching numbers' for Argentine maestro</a>

According to Greek police, “three foreigners” are accused of “violence against officials, disobedience, bodily harm, insult and attempted bribery of an official.”

<img alt="Harry Maguire" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="43864a61-223f-457e-8905-ff7edb29b1dc" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1WO2FS.jpg" />

Man United released the following statement on Saturday: “Following the appearance in court today we note the adjournment of the case to allow the legal team to consider the case file. Harry has pleaded not guilty to the charges. It would be inappropriate for the player or club to comment further while the legal process takes its course.”

The 27-year-old entered his plea on Saturday with a court date for Tuesday in Greece. However, his attendance won’t be required as his lawyer is expected to represent his interests. He is also set to fly back to England.

It was even reported that England manager Gareth Southgate is thinking hard about whether to hand a call-up to Maguire for international friendlies.&nbsp;

With both Lindelof and Maguire setting two different examples, it will be interesting to see whether these incidents have any major ramification on their forms, especially that of Maguire’s.

Manchester United may have finished the Premier League 2019-20 season in top four while securing the UEFA Champions League spot for the next season but their off season stories have taken sharp turns with both the centre-backs Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof being the central to two completely contrasting tales.

Manchester United may have finished the Premier League 2019-20 season in top four while securing the UEFA Champions League spot for the next season but their off season stories have taken sharp turns with both the centre-backs Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof being the central to two completely contrasting tales. Lindelof made a timely intervention by chasing down a man who stole an elderly woman’s handbag in his home city of Vasteras on Monday. A police statement said that the suspect snatched the handbag of the elderly woman as he cycled past her. However, Lindelof chased and caught the man before handing him over to the concerned authorities. “A man who was in the vicinity is said to have run after the suspected perpetrator, caught up with him and held him until the police arrived at the scene,” the police said without naming the 26-year-old Lindelof. ALSO READ: Ronaldinho released from Paraguay after five months of detention “The police would like to take this opportunity to thank the witness for a quick and sensible intervention to restore the plaintiff’s property.” Lindelof, who joined United from Portuguese side Benfica in 2017, started 35 Premier League games in the 2019-20 season as they finished third. Maguire in trouble Whereas in a completely contrasting story of other Manchester United defender and captain Harry Maguire, the England international spent two nights in police custody after he was arrested during a holiday with family and friends on the Greek island of Mykonos after charges of aggravated assault and attempted bribery to a police officer. Police said there had been an altercation and exchange of words with an officer who tried to intervene a fight. However, Maguire has denied charges of assault and attempted bribery. ALSO READ: Will Lionel Messi leave Barcelona? Man City 'crunching numbers' for Argentine maestro According to Greek police, “three foreigners” are accused of “violence against officials, disobedience, bodily harm, insult and attempted bribery of an official.” Man United released the following statement on Saturday: “Following the appearance in court today we note the adjournment of the case to allow the legal team to consider the case file. Harry has pleaded not guilty to the charges. It would be inappropriate for the player or club to comment further while the legal process takes its course.” The 27-year-old entered his plea on Saturday with a court date for Tuesday in Greece. However, his attendance won’t be required as his lawyer is expected to represent his interests. He is also set to fly back to England. It was even reported that England manager Gareth Southgate is thinking hard about whether to hand a call-up to Maguire for international friendlies. With both Lindelof and Maguire setting two different examples, it will be interesting to see whether these incidents have any major ramification on their forms, especially that of Maguire’s.

Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof: Contrasting tales of two Manchester United defenders

With the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) coming under the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA), the players set to participate in the much-awaited <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a> will have to undergo random doping tests throughout the course of the season with the anti-doping agency planning 50 tests. The likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and MS Dhoni among other top stars in the cash-rich tournament could be tested this season.

As per reports, NADA has put five ‘Dope Control Stations’ and both ‘in-competition’ and ‘out of competition’ tests will be done on players. However, the COVID-19 pandemic and related health protocols make collection of samples a tricky task.

NADA hasn’t chalked out the possibility of blood-sample collection even though urine samples are generally taken for dope tests. The report states that NADA DCO’s will be encouraged to take samples of leading Indian cricketers including the likes of Kohli, Dhoni, Rohit and others. But 50 tests seem a tad bit low with so many players participating in a tournament that will run for around two months.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-chris-gayle-tests-negative-for-covid-19-after-attending-usain-bolts-birthday-bash-322951" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Chris Gayle tests negative for COVID-19 after attending Usain Bolt's birthday bash</a>

A total of three teams -- comprising of NADA officials and DCOs -- will be sent to UAE in three batches.

"The first batch will leave in the first week of September. Before their departure, all team members will be tested for Covid-19. Upon their arrival in the UAE, they will be tested again."

Players, under unprecedented circumstances surrounding COVID-19 pandemic, will have to undergo COVID-19 tests on a regular basis. The dope tests by NADA to ensure no player has taken banned substance will only increase the pressure on players.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/silverwood-urges-england-to-finish-strong-and-see-anderson-to-600th-test-wickets-322924" hreflang="en">Silverwood urges England to finish strong and see Anderson to 600th Test wickets</a>

Furthermore, players need to be careful about not breaching the protocols including the bio-secure bubble that could put the entire IPL 2020 in trouble.&nbsp;

We've done quite well to get to Dubai safe and sound firstly. We've followed what's been told to us and I would expect everyone to be on the same page in terms of securing the bubble at all times and making sure that nothing is compromised because one mistake from any of us could literally spoil the whole tournament and none of us want to do that," Kohli said during a RCB virtual team meeting. &nbsp;

With the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) coming under the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA), the players set to participate in the much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 will have to undergo random doping tests throughout the course of the season with the anti-doping agency planning 50 tests.

With the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) coming under the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA), the players set to participate in the much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 will have to undergo random doping tests throughout the course of the season with the anti-doping agency planning 50 tests. The likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and MS Dhoni among other top stars in the cash-rich tournament could be tested this season. As per reports, NADA has put five ‘Dope Control Stations’ and both ‘in-competition’ and ‘out of competition’ tests will be done on players. However, the COVID-19 pandemic and related health protocols make collection of samples a tricky task. NADA hasn’t chalked out the possibility of blood-sample collection even though urine samples are generally taken for dope tests. The report states that NADA DCO’s will be encouraged to take samples of leading Indian cricketers including the likes of Kohli, Dhoni, Rohit and others. But 50 tests seem a tad bit low with so many players participating in a tournament that will run for around two months. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Chris Gayle tests negative for COVID-19 after attending Usain Bolt's birthday bash A total of three teams -- comprising of NADA officials and DCOs -- will be sent to UAE in three batches. "The first batch will leave in the first week of September. Before their departure, all team members will be tested for Covid-19. Upon their arrival in the UAE, they will be tested again." Players, under unprecedented circumstances surrounding COVID-19 pandemic, will have to undergo COVID-19 tests on a regular basis. The dope tests by NADA to ensure no player has taken banned substance will only increase the pressure on players. ALSO READ: Silverwood urges England to finish strong and see Anderson to 600th Test wickets Furthermore, players need to be careful about not breaching the protocols including the bio-secure bubble that could put the entire IPL 2020 in trouble. We've done quite well to get to Dubai safe and sound firstly. We've followed what's been told to us and I would expect everyone to be on the same page in terms of securing the bubble at all times and making sure that nothing is compromised because one mistake from any of us could literally spoil the whole tournament and none of us want to do that," Kohli said during a RCB virtual team meeting.

NADA plans to conduct 50 tests in IPL; Dhoni, Kohli's samples could be taken

After Barcelona’s humiliating 8-2 defeat to Bayern Munich in the quarter-final of UEFA Champions League 2019-20, the impossible looked reality. Will Lionel Messi leave Barcelona after this shambolic performance by the Spanish giants? Since then, Barcelona have appointed a new head coach in Ronald Koeman, a club legend as a player but media reports have hinted that Messi is done with his time in Barca.&nbsp;

While Koeman has said he would like to keep the Argentine maestro in the club, latest reports suggest that English club Manchester City are ‘crunching numbers’ to see the possibility of bringing Messi to the Etihad Stadium. Paris Saint-Germain boss Thomas Tuchel also welcomed the idea of signing the six-time Ballon d’Or winner.&nbsp;

With Man City escaping a ban after winning their FFP case against UEFA in the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), the English club would be really careful about their financial spending and hence, are looking at the numbers closely so that they don’t find themselves in trouble, should the dream transfer go ahead.&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/bayern-munich-10-psg-uefa-champions-league-final-all-the-action-in-pictures-322813">Bayern Munich 1:0 PSG, UEFA Champions League Final: All the action in pictures</a>

Furthermore, Pep Guardiola, who nurtured Messi to become the best in the world in Barcelona, has the opportunity to work with the little magician once again after their splendid success with the Catalan club in the past. However, a EUR 700 millon release clause makes thing pretty difficult not only for Man City but other clubs who aspire to sign Messi. While Messi is 33-year-old now with only a year left on his contract, Barcelona, in all probability, will play a hard ball.&nbsp;

Interestingly, Koeman is also believed to have had a chat with Guardiola over the Messi saga.&nbsp;

“I am very close with Pep Guardiola and I am still in contact with him now. Pep told me that Messi wants to win, he wants to win everything. And if he doesn’t win, he can get very annoyed. I am looking so much forward to work with him. I have to make sure that Messi will be able to function well in this team, and that he feels important. He is the captain of this club!”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ronaldinho-released-from-paraguay-after-five-months-of-detention-322946" hreflang="en">Ronaldinho released from Paraguay after five months of detention</a>

“He has to finish his career here. Messi is Barcelona and Barcelona is Messi”, Koeman added. “Of course he is disappointed, I would be too if I lost 8-2. If he wouldn’t be in this emotional state, then it would be worrying.”

It remains to be seen if Messi leaves Barcelona in the ongoing summer transfer window or not. 
&nbsp;

After Barcelona’s humiliating 8-2 defeat to Bayern Munich in the quarter-final of UEFA Champions League 2019-20, the impossible looked reality. Will Lionel Messi leave Barcelona after this shambolic performance by the Spanish giants?

After Barcelona’s humiliating 8-2 defeat to Bayern Munich in the quarter-final of UEFA Champions League 2019-20, the impossible looked reality. Will Lionel Messi leave Barcelona after this shambolic performance by the Spanish giants? Since then, Barcelona have appointed a new head coach in Ronald Koeman, a club legend as a player but media reports have hinted that Messi is done with his time in Barca. While Koeman has said he would like to keep the Argentine maestro in the club, latest reports suggest that English club Manchester City are ‘crunching numbers’ to see the possibility of bringing Messi to the Etihad Stadium. Paris Saint-Germain boss Thomas Tuchel also welcomed the idea of signing the six-time Ballon d’Or winner. With Man City escaping a ban after winning their FFP case against UEFA in the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), the English club would be really careful about their financial spending and hence, are looking at the numbers closely so that they don’t find themselves in trouble, should the dream transfer go ahead. IN PICS | Bayern Munich 1:0 PSG, UEFA Champions League Final: All the action in pictures Furthermore, Pep Guardiola, who nurtured Messi to become the best in the world in Barcelona, has the opportunity to work with the little magician once again after their splendid success with the Catalan club in the past. However, a EUR 700 millon release clause makes thing pretty difficult not only for Man City but other clubs who aspire to sign Messi. While Messi is 33-year-old now with only a year left on his contract, Barcelona, in all probability, will play a hard ball. Interestingly, Koeman is also believed to have had a chat with Guardiola over the Messi saga. “I am very close with Pep Guardiola and I am still in contact with him now. Pep told me that Messi wants to win, he wants to win everything. And if he doesn’t win, he can get very annoyed. I am looking so much forward to work with him. I have to make sure that Messi will be able to function well in this team, and that he feels important. He is the captain of this club!” ALSO READ: Ronaldinho released from Paraguay after five months of detention “He has to finish his career here. Messi is Barcelona and Barcelona is Messi”, Koeman added. “Of course he is disappointed, I would be too if I lost 8-2. If he wouldn’t be in this emotional state, then it would be worrying.” It remains to be seen if Messi leaves Barcelona in the ongoing summer transfer window or not.

Will Lionel Messi leave Barcelona? Man City 'crunching numbers' for Argentine maestro

Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 bound West Indies opener Chris Gayle on Monday tested negative for COVID-19 twice after reportedly attending Usain Bolt’s birthday party in Jamaica. Gayle had to take precautionary steps after Usain Bolt reportedly tested positive for the dreaded coronavirus after celebrating his 34th birthday in what was a mask-free event in Jamaica.

Gayle took to social media platform Instagram to announce that he has been tested negative twice for COVID-19 and now will be gearing up to travel for the much awaited IPL 2020 starting September 19 in the UAE.&nbsp;

"Couple days ago. 1st Covid-19 test.. Before travel I need 2 negative test," Gayle's Instagram story said. In another post, Gayle wrote, "The last one went a bit too far in my nose. Phew. Result was negative."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/when-will-ipl-2020-schedule-release-brijesh-patel-spills-the-beans-322827" hreflang="en">When will IPL 2020 schedule release? Brijesh Patel spills the beans</a>

"I'm going to stay home for 2020 not gonna travel again nah sah! Tan a mi yard!! Keep the change! Excuse me!," Gayle added.

Gayle is set to feature for Kings XI Punjab in IPL 2020 and will be looking to help the KL Rahul-led outfit in breaking their trophy drought in the cash-rich tournament. In IPL 2019, the West Indies icon had amassed 368 runs.&nbsp;

Apart from Gayle, Manchester City forward Raheem Sterling and Bayer Leverkusen’s Leon Bailey were other sporting superstars to have reportedly attended the multiple-time Olympic gold medallist and world-record holder.&nbsp;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Stay Safe my ppl 🙏🏿 <a href="https://t.co/ebwJFF5Ka9">pic.twitter.com/ebwJFF5Ka9</a>
— Usain St. Leo Bolt (@usainbolt) <a href="https://twitter.com/usainbolt/status/1297929980874194945?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ronaldinho-released-from-paraguay-after-five-months-of-detention-322946" hreflang="en">Ronaldinho released from Paraguay after five months of detention</a>

Confirmed coronavirus cases in Jamaica have spiked to more than 60 per day over the last four days and the country now has 1,612 cases with 622 active cases and 16 deaths from the deadly virus.

Meanwhile, the Indian Premier League 2020 is set to commence from September 19 with the final scheduled to be held on November 10. The schedule for IPL 2020 is also expected to be released by the end of this week.&nbsp;

Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 bound West Indies opener Chris Gayle on Monday tested negative for COVID-19 twice after reportedly attending Usain Bolt’s birthday party in Jamaica.

Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 bound West Indies opener Chris Gayle on Monday tested negative for COVID-19 twice after reportedly attending Usain Bolt’s birthday party in Jamaica. Gayle had to take precautionary steps after Usain Bolt reportedly tested positive for the dreaded coronavirus after celebrating his 34th birthday in what was a mask-free event in Jamaica. Gayle took to social media platform Instagram to announce that he has been tested negative twice for COVID-19 and now will be gearing up to travel for the much awaited IPL 2020 starting September 19 in the UAE. "Couple days ago. 1st Covid-19 test.. Before travel I need 2 negative test," Gayle's Instagram story said. In another post, Gayle wrote, "The last one went a bit too far in my nose. Phew. Result was negative." ALSO READ: When will IPL 2020 schedule release? Brijesh Patel spills the beans "I'm going to stay home for 2020 not gonna travel again nah sah! Tan a mi yard!! Keep the change! Excuse me!," Gayle added. Gayle is set to feature for Kings XI Punjab in IPL 2020 and will be looking to help the KL Rahul-led outfit in breaking their trophy drought in the cash-rich tournament. In IPL 2019, the West Indies icon had amassed 368 runs. Apart from Gayle, Manchester City forward Raheem Sterling and Bayer Leverkusen’s Leon Bailey were other sporting superstars to have reportedly attended the multiple-time Olympic gold medallist and world-record holder. Stay Safe my ppl 🙏🏿 pic.twitter.com/ebwJFF5Ka9 — Usain St. Leo Bolt (@usainbolt) August 24, 2020 × ALSO READ: Ronaldinho released from Paraguay after five months of detention Confirmed coronavirus cases in Jamaica have spiked to more than 60 per day over the last four days and the country now has 1,612 cases with 622 active cases and 16 deaths from the deadly virus. Meanwhile, the Indian Premier League 2020 is set to commence from September 19 with the final scheduled to be held on November 10. The schedule for IPL 2020 is also expected to be released by the end of this week.

IPL 2020: Chris Gayle tests negative for COVID-19 after attending Usain Bolt's birthday bash

Former Brazilian footballer Ronaldinho was released Monday by a Paraguayan judge after being in detention for five months over a forged passport. Judge Gustavo Amarilla further released Ronaldinho’s brother Roberto de Assis Moreira, who also was detailed for a month in jail and another four months under house arrest in a hotel in Asuncion, for the same charge.

The judge declared that the World Cup winner “is free to travel to whatever country in the world he wants but he must inform us if he changes his permanent residence" for a period of one year.

"He has no restrictions except for the fulfilment of reparations for damage to society."

Ronaldinho, 40, accepted all the terms of his release after being detained for five months. The terms include a payment of $90,000 damages. Whereas his brother, who is also Ronaldinho's business manager, must pay $110,000.

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Both Ronaldinho and his brother are expected to appear before a judge in Brazil every three months. Ronaldinho for a year, his brother for two.&nbsp;

"There is no indication that he has any personal characteristics or criminal behaviour that ... would put society at risk," the prosecutor said prior to Monday's trial.

Prosecutors were of the general view that Ronaldinho didn’t plan to manufacture the fake Paraguayan passports but believed de Assis Moreira knew the passports were forged.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-relaxes-rules-on-release-of-players-for-internationals-322923" hreflang="en">FIFA relaxes rules on release of players for internationals</a>

Ronaldinho and his brother arrived in Paraguay on March 4 with the 2005 Ballon d’Or winner due to take part in an event in support of disadvantaged children. Two days later, the pair were taken into police custody after it was found that the duo had fake documents.

After being detained in an Asuncion police station, where the iconic Brazilian footballer celebrated his 40th birthday on March 21, the duo was put under house arrest for more than four months inside a luxury hotel on a bail of $1.6 million.

Former Brazilian footballer Ronaldinho was released Monday by a Paraguayan judge after being in detention for five months over a forged passport. Judge Gustavo Amarilla further released Ronaldinho’s brother Roberto de Assis Moreira, who also was detailed for a month in jail and another four months under house arrest in a hotel in Asuncion, for the same charge.

Former Brazilian footballer Ronaldinho was released Monday by a Paraguayan judge after being in detention for five months over a forged passport. Judge Gustavo Amarilla further released Ronaldinho’s brother Roberto de Assis Moreira, who also was detailed for a month in jail and another four months under house arrest in a hotel in Asuncion, for the same charge. The judge declared that the World Cup winner “is free to travel to whatever country in the world he wants but he must inform us if he changes his permanent residence" for a period of one year. "He has no restrictions except for the fulfilment of reparations for damage to society." Ronaldinho, 40, accepted all the terms of his release after being detained for five months. The terms include a payment of $90,000 damages. Whereas his brother, who is also Ronaldinho's business manager, must pay $110,000. IN PICS | Bayern Munich 1:0 PSG, UEFA Champions League Final: All the action in pictures Both Ronaldinho and his brother are expected to appear before a judge in Brazil every three months. Ronaldinho for a year, his brother for two. "There is no indication that he has any personal characteristics or criminal behaviour that ... would put society at risk," the prosecutor said prior to Monday's trial. Prosecutors were of the general view that Ronaldinho didn’t plan to manufacture the fake Paraguayan passports but believed de Assis Moreira knew the passports were forged. ALSO READ: FIFA relaxes rules on release of players for internationals Ronaldinho and his brother arrived in Paraguay on March 4 with the 2005 Ballon d’Or winner due to take part in an event in support of disadvantaged children. Two days later, the pair were taken into police custody after it was found that the duo had fake documents. After being detained in an Asuncion police station, where the iconic Brazilian footballer celebrated his 40th birthday on March 21, the duo was put under house arrest for more than four months inside a luxury hotel on a bail of $1.6 million.

Ronaldinho released from Paraguay after five months of detention

Another excellent St Lucia Zouks bowling performance ensured Roston Chase’s backs-to-the-wall fifty was not in vain, as Chemar Holder bowled a brilliant last over to deny the Guyana Amazon Warriors, who looked to have recovered from a rocky start through the flashing blade of Nicholas Pooran.

With all three previous games on this track won by the team batting first, Daren Sammy chose to set a target. Kimani Melius announced himself on Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) debut with a glorious Hero Maximum off Chandrapaul Hemraj but was caught at mid-off trying to repeat the trick off Imran Tahir. 
 
Tahir didn’t stop there, as he had Mark Deyal dropped first ball and caught second, both by Ashmead Nedd. Nedd started solidly with the ball, but Chase clubbed Keemo Paul for six to add some gloss to the Zouks’ Powerplay score of 37/2. 
 
Amazon Warriors captain Chris Green used five bowlers in the first seven overs including two overs from himself, culminating in him yorking Andre Fletcher. Nedd got the deserved wicket of Najibullah Zadran, whose mishit saw him caught on the boundary for a duck. 
 
A lot now rested on Chase and Mohammad Nabi, and the Bajan took three boundaries off Odean Smith’s first over. The two were cautious initially against the spinners, and the Zouks were a middling 67/4 at halfway. 
 
Paul and Smith conceded just one boundary each, and Nedd finished his spell beautifully. Nabi briefly broke free with an enormous Hero Maximum and a powerful four off Green, but he was beaten in the flight by Tahir and gave the skipper a straightforward catch. 
 
Chase brought up his second T20 fifty off 40 balls, and in his first game for the Zouks, Javelle Glenn got off the mark with a lovely cover-drive. But Paul was dismissed for just two, and with four overs to go, the Zouks needed an acceleration. Chase provided it, launching Tahir straight and swinging Paul through square leg, and Glenn settled himself with a boundary of his own. 
 
Green gave Smith the last over, and his pace proved effective as Glenn and Chase fell in consecutive balls. There was to be no hat-trick, but the over was reward for the bowler and captain’s persistence, and the Zouks’ total seemed below-par. 
 
Their bowling however was anything but. Nabi bowled a superb first over, and two Scott Kuggeleijn short balls saw King caught behind for 1 and Shimron Hetmyer top-edging to square leg for 4 to leave the Amazon Warriors two down in the second over.

The Amazon Warriors predicament got even worse when Ross Taylor top-edged a reverse paddle-sweep off the back of the bat into his own helmet and was caught, giving Nabi a first wicket. Even a Hemraj six off Chase couldn’t put much gloss on a Powerplay of 19/3. 
 
Pooran was lucky to pick up four off a Kesrick Williams short ball, but there was nothing lucky about the authoritative pull for six that followed. Holder was wayward, with wides, a no-ball and a deft steer through third man, and a 15 run over took the Amazon Warriors to 59/3 at halfway. 
 
Hemraj struggled for timing throughout, and eventually spooned a leading edge off Williams which was well caught by Chase. Sammy showed faith in Holder, who recovered after being crashed for four by the promoted Paul, but two boundaries in a 12 run over from Pooran put a slight dent in Nabi’s still excellent figures. 
 
The Zouks got sloppy in the next over, as an overthrow brought up Pooran’s 50 off 32 balls&nbsp;&nbsp;and Sammy dropped a very simple catch. Pooran then top-edged over the keeper’s head for four to bring the required rate under 9. 
 
Chase ensured Pooran couldn’t find a boundary, but the Amazon Warriors’ number five made up for that off Williams to take his team into the last four overs needing 39. Paul clobbered a Hero Maximum off Chase’s last ball and brought up the 50 partnership, but he picked out Nabi at deep midwicket in the next over. 
 
Sherfane Rutherford blasted his second ball for six to dent Kuggeleijn’s figures. The equation seemed to have swung dramatically in the Zouks favour when Pooran bottom-edged a Williams slower ball onto his stumps, but the Warriors burgled 8 off the last four balls of the 19th including a botched run-out to leave Rutherford on strike and 13 to win off the last over, to be bowled by Holder. 
 
Holder responded magnificently. He flattened Rutherford’s off-stump with a pinpoint yorker, then he had captain Green caught behind, and a bowler who’d gone for 30 off his first 3 overs sealed the win with 2/2, showing the world why West Indian cricket is so excited about him and giving the Zouks a third straight win ahead of the move to Port-of-Spain.

Another excellent St Lucia Zouks bowling performance ensured Roston Chase’s backs-to-the-wall fifty was not in vain, as Chemar Holder bowled a brilliant last over to deny the Guyana Amazon Warriors, who looked to have recovered from a rocky start through the flashing blade of Nicholas Pooran.

Another excellent St Lucia Zouks bowling performance ensured Roston Chase’s backs-to-the-wall fifty was not in vain, as Chemar Holder bowled a brilliant last over to deny the Guyana Amazon Warriors, who looked to have recovered from a rocky start through the flashing blade of Nicholas Pooran. With all three previous games on this track won by the team batting first, Daren Sammy chose to set a target. Kimani Melius announced himself on Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) debut with a glorious Hero Maximum off Chandrapaul Hemraj but was caught at mid-off trying to repeat the trick off Imran Tahir. Tahir didn’t stop there, as he had Mark Deyal dropped first ball and caught second, both by Ashmead Nedd. Nedd started solidly with the ball, but Chase clubbed Keemo Paul for six to add some gloss to the Zouks’ Powerplay score of 37/2. Amazon Warriors captain Chris Green used five bowlers in the first seven overs including two overs from himself, culminating in him yorking Andre Fletcher. Nedd got the deserved wicket of Najibullah Zadran, whose mishit saw him caught on the boundary for a duck. A lot now rested on Chase and Mohammad Nabi, and the Bajan took three boundaries off Odean Smith’s first over. The two were cautious initially against the spinners, and the Zouks were a middling 67/4 at halfway. Paul and Smith conceded just one boundary each, and Nedd finished his spell beautifully. Nabi briefly broke free with an enormous Hero Maximum and a powerful four off Green, but he was beaten in the flight by Tahir and gave the skipper a straightforward catch. Chase brought up his second T20 fifty off 40 balls, and in his first game for the Zouks, Javelle Glenn got off the mark with a lovely cover-drive. But Paul was dismissed for just two, and with four overs to go, the Zouks needed an acceleration. Chase provided it, launching Tahir straight and swinging Paul through square leg, and Glenn settled himself with a boundary of his own. Green gave Smith the last over, and his pace proved effective as Glenn and Chase fell in consecutive balls. There was to be no hat-trick, but the over was reward for the bowler and captain’s persistence, and the Zouks’ total seemed below-par. Their bowling however was anything but. Nabi bowled a superb first over, and two Scott Kuggeleijn short balls saw King caught behind for 1 and Shimron Hetmyer top-edging to square leg for 4 to leave the Amazon Warriors two down in the second over. The Amazon Warriors predicament got even worse when Ross Taylor top-edged a reverse paddle-sweep off the back of the bat into his own helmet and was caught, giving Nabi a first wicket. Even a Hemraj six off Chase couldn’t put much gloss on a Powerplay of 19/3. Pooran was lucky to pick up four off a Kesrick Williams short ball, but there was nothing lucky about the authoritative pull for six that followed. Holder was wayward, with wides, a no-ball and a deft steer through third man, and a 15 run over took the Amazon Warriors to 59/3 at halfway. Hemraj struggled for timing throughout, and eventually spooned a leading edge off Williams which was well caught by Chase. Sammy showed faith in Holder, who recovered after being crashed for four by the promoted Paul, but two boundaries in a 12 run over from Pooran put a slight dent in Nabi’s still excellent figures. The Zouks got sloppy in the next over, as an overthrow brought up Pooran’s 50 off 32 balls and Sammy dropped a very simple catch. Pooran then top-edged over the keeper’s head for four to bring the required rate under 9. Chase ensured Pooran couldn’t find a boundary, but the Amazon Warriors’ number five made up for that off Williams to take his team into the last four overs needing 39. Paul clobbered a Hero Maximum off Chase’s last ball and brought up the 50 partnership, but he picked out Nabi at deep midwicket in the next over. Sherfane Rutherford blasted his second ball for six to dent Kuggeleijn’s figures. The equation seemed to have swung dramatically in the Zouks favour when Pooran bottom-edged a Williams slower ball onto his stumps, but the Warriors burgled 8 off the last four balls of the 19th including a botched run-out to leave Rutherford on strike and 13 to win off the last over, to be bowled by Holder. Holder responded magnificently. He flattened Rutherford’s off-stump with a pinpoint yorker, then he had captain Green caught behind, and a bowler who’d gone for 30 off his first 3 overs sealed the win with 2/2, showing the world why West Indian cricket is so excited about him and giving the Zouks a third straight win ahead of the move to Port-of-Spain.

CPL 2020: Chemar holds his nerve as Chase is too much for Guyana

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