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Djokovic withdraws from Indian Wells amid US visa row
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AFP
Novak Djokovic has formally withdrawn from the draw for the Indian Wells tournament, organisers said on Sunday in an indication that the world number one’s application for a COVID-19 vaccine waiver to enter the US might have failed.
The Serbian, who is one of the most high-profile athletes unvaccinated against the virus, applied to the US government last month for special permission to play at ATP Masters events at Indian Wells and Miami.
“World No. 1 Novak Djokovic has withdrawn from the 2023 BNP Paribas Open. With his withdrawal, Nikoloz Basilashvili moves into the field,” organisers said in a statement late on Sunday.
The US currently bars unvaccinated foreigners from entry into the country, a policy that is expected to be lifted when the government ends its COVID-19 emergency declarations on May 11.
Djokovic has not competed at the back-to-back ATP Masters events in Indian Wells and Miami, two of the biggest tournaments on the ATP calendar and known as the “Sunshine Double”, since 2019.
No one from Djokovic’s team was immediately available to comment on the withdrawal.
Last Friday, Florida Senators Rick Scott and Marco Rubio wrote a letter to US President Joe Biden urging him to grant the waiver request.
Indian Wells tournament director Tommy Haas, the United States Tennis Association and the US Open were among those also hoping the 22-time Grand Slam champion would be allowed to enter.
He would have been a heavy favourite to win his sixth Indian Wells title when the tournament kicks off in the Southern California desert on Wednesday.
Djokovic, who missed last year’s Australian Open due to his vaccination status and was not allowed into the US for last year’s US Open, has said he would skip Grand Slams rather than have a COVID shot.
He won his record-tying 22th major championships at the Australian Open in January.
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Cricket enthusiasts worldwide are witnessing a groundbreaking shift in the legendary game of cricket through the World Championship of Legends. Here’s why this championship is reshaping the cricketing landscape
Firstly, it stands out as the only league in its category approved by a Test Playing Nation. This validation brings a new level of prestige and authenticity to the championship.
Secondly, the matches are set to unfold on the iconic grounds of Edgbaston. These hallowed cricketing grounds hold a rich history and add an aura of grandeur to the championship.
One of the distinctive features of this league is that players will proudly don their country’s colors while competing. This patriotic display adds a layer of pride and passion to the matches, fostering a deeper connection with fans.
A highlight of the championship is the India versus Pakistan clash, a rivalry steeped in cricketing lore. This showdown not only ignites the competitive spirit but also captures the imagination of fans worldwide.
Moreover, the championship boasts an extensive pool of cricketers, including legends like Yuvraj Singh, Harbhajan Singh, Suresh Raina, Shahid Afridi, Younis Khan, Kamran Akmal, Brett Lee, Shaun Marsh, Jacques Kallis, Herschelle Gibbs, and many others. This diverse lineup ensures fierce competition and thrilling performances on the field.
Cricketing legend Kevin Pietersen current player for England Champions at WCL, shares, “I can’t wait to feel the energy of Edgbaston. It is truly one of the exciting atmospheres to be in, especially when you are playing for England at one of the prestigious venues of cricket. Edgbaston is known to have one of the most passionate crowds, and I am excited to be in action.”
Cricketing icon Brett Lee, playing for Australia Champions, shares, ‘I am beyond proud to be a part of World Championship of Legends. Putting on my country’s colors back again and playing on one of the leading venues of world cricket, Edgbaston, is about representing the pride and passion of millions of fans while giving it my all on the field.’
Sharing more on playing for Australia Champions, Brett Lee shares, “Playing for the World Championship of Legends is not just a privilege, it’s a reminder of the honor and passion that fuels the game.”
What sets this league apart is its inclusion of not just retired players but also those who are not currently signed with their respective cricket boards. This inclusion of free agents adds an element of unpredictability and toughness to the competition, making every match a must-watch spectacle.
Adding to the league’s allure is Bollywood megastar Ajay Devgn, who has invested in the championship, further elevating its profile and appeal. This partnership has garnered significant interest, evident in the sale of tickets worth 125K USD on the very first day.
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The Asian Champions League semi-final first leg between Al Ain and Saudi Arabia’s Al Hilal has been postponed due to the weather, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) said on Tuesday.
The match was set to be played on Tuesday evening in Al Ain but will now be played on Wednesday, April 17 after the country experienced heavy rainfall and thunderstorms.
UAE authorities had urged residents to stay at home due to the weather conditions.
“The UAE Football Association has suspended all football activities for Tuesday, keeping in view the safety of all fans, players and stakeholders,” AFC said in a statement.
The match has been rescheduled for Wednesday at 8:00 p.m.
Due to weather conditions..
The AFC postpones @alainfcae and @Alhilal_FC match until tomorrow, Wednesday at 20:00 #alainclub || @Alhilal_EN #ACL pic.twitter.com/QWM9fEGmwH— Al Ain FC (@alainfcae_en) April 16, 2024
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Former England bowler Derek Underwood has died at the age of 78, his former team Kent County Cricket Club said on Monday.
Underwood played 86 test matches for England and took 297 wickets, the country’s highest wicket-taking spinner of all time in the format and the sixth highest wicket-taker overall. His 16-year international career includes 17 five-wicket hauls.
The retrospective ICC rankings put him as the world’s number one bowler for nearly four years between 1969 and 1973.
Underwood, born in Kent, played for his local club for 24 years before retiring in 1987 and had 10 seasons where he took 100 or more wickets.
“Watching Derek weave his unique magic on a wet wicket was a privilege for all who were able to witness it,” Simon Philip, chair of Kent Cricket, said in a statement.
“His induction into the ICC Hall of Fame shows the esteem in which he was held in world cricket.”
Underwood also served as the president of Kent Cricket and the Marylebone Cricket Club after retiring as a player.
“Derek also made substantial contributions off the field as well as on it and he will be sorely missed by everyone at Kent Cricket,” Philip added.
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