bbc--2020-12-19--Have Man City finally moved on from Kompany?

While Manchester City 's struggles in front of goal continued in victory against Southampton , their hopes of mounting a Premier League title challenge remain intact courtesy of a watertight defence .
Though West Brom 's equaliser in a frustrating 1-1 draw in midweek ended a run of 608 minutes without conceding in all competitions - and left them ninth in the table - their latest shutout was their eighth clean sheet in their past nine .
Marshalled by £65m signing Ruben Dias and England international John Stones once more against Southampton - the latter absent on Tuesday - City @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also a Premier League best .
Against a Southampton side that had scored at least twice in each of their past seven Premier League home games , 23-year-old Portugal international Dias and Stones , 26 , held firm under pressure to ensure their side returned to winning ways and reduced the gap to the top four .
Only in the most recent seasons City won the the title , in 2017-18 and 2018-19 , have they conceded fewer goals and kept more clean sheets at this stage of the season under Guardiola , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they finished 18 points behind champions Liverpool last season .
`` Defensively we were excellent , '' Guardiola told BBC Sport .
`` Last season we struggled a lot .
Ruben [ Dias ] has helped us a lot .
John [ Stones ] the last few games has been exceptional . ''
The arrival of Dias from Benfica on a six-year deal in September , after an exposed City were thrashed 5-2 by Leicester , completed Guardiola 's long search for a right-sided central defender .
Brought in as a direct replacement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ left Etihad Stadium following City 's last title triumph , Dias has quickly helped transform his side 's defensive fortunes - a 2-0 defeat by Tottenham the only defeat in his young City career .
With Dias in the side , City 's average goals conceded per Premier League game in 2020 has almost halved from 0.9 to 0.5 , conceding six times in his 11 appearances compared to 18 in 20 without him .
Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live , former England winger Karen Carney said : `` As poor as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ City in the attacking third , I must commend the backline .
John Stones has been superb , Ruben Dias has been really , really astute and Kyle Walker and Joao Cancelo have been consistent as well . ''
Stones , meanwhile , has quietly re-established himself as Guardiola 's favoured option alongside Dias , boasting four consecutive league clean sheets due to his absence for the West Brom draw .
Indeed , City have not conceded in Stones ' past nine appearances this season - the only blip on his record arriving @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 3-1 win against Wolves in September .
Sidelined by injury four times last season and managing only 16 starts in all competitions out of the 59 games City played in 2019-20 , Stones currently ranks top for minutes played per team goal conceded in the English top flight this season , with one conceded in 450 minutes of action .
And , indicative of why he was signed for £47.5m from Everton in Guardiola 's first transfer window in 2016 , Stones ' passing accuracy of 95.1 % is the highest of any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ longer first choice for club or country , as he was left out of seven league games before his return against Burnley in November and featured just once in the Three Lions ' Euro 2020 qualification campaign , Stones has now started six of City 's past eight matches in all competitions and his stock appears on the rise once more .
`` John Stones will have done a lot of soul searching , '' former Tottenham midfielder Jermaine Jenas told Match of the Day .
`` I know for a fact he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had a look at himself and Pep has decided to play him ahead of Aymeric Laporte .
`` His performances in his past four games have been exemplary .
`` On this type of form he 's a player [ England manager ] Gareth Southgate has to have another look at . ''
City registered 25 shots but failed to beat West Brom on Tuesday and , though they left the south coast with all three points on Saturday , the narrow margin of victory was the latest reminder of their struggle to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brazil striker Gabriel Jesus unfit and club-record goalscorer Sergio Aguero an unused substitute , Ferran Torres failed to affect the game and took one shot prior to being replaced by Riyad Mahrez after 72 minutes .
Their 19 goals after 13 games is well below the standards set by City during Guardiola 's tenure , that tally little over half of the 37 they managed at the same stage of last season when they finished second .
The Citizens have never averaged below two goals per league game under the former Barcelona and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ averaging 1.5 .
Guardiola responded `` absolutely not '' when asked if he was considering a move for a striker in the January transfer window , relying instead on Aguero 's eventual long-awaited return to full fitness and Jesus to improve on his record of four shots on target in 630 minutes of Premier League football this term .
Until then , City must rely on a steely defence to ensure they stay in the title race .
Speaking at full-time , Carney added : `` John Stones and Ruben Dias are absolutely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ look miserable !
`` It really was a case of superb defence from City today but the decision making of the frontline was really poor .
Credit goes to City 's defensive display because it was spot on . ''
• None Documentaries Like Nowhere Else : From inspiration to infamous , the story of Lance Armstrong • None Comedy Like Nowhere Else : Give Kurupt FM a go with the People Just Do Nothing box set

Manchester City have conceded six goals in 11 league games since losing 5-2 to Leicester in September
While Manchester City's struggles in front of goal continued in victory against Southampton, their hopes of mounting a Premier League title challenge remain intact courtesy of a watertight defence.
Following their 1-0 victory at St Mary's on Saturday afternoon, no side has conceded fewer goals in the competition than the 12 of Pep Guardiola's side after 13 games.
Though West Brom's equaliser in a frustrating 1-1 draw in midweek ended a run of 608 minutes without conceding in all competitions - and left them ninth in the table - their latest shutout was their eighth clean sheet in their past nine.
Marshalled by £65m signing Ruben Dias and England international John Stones once more against Southampton - the latter absent on Tuesday - City's sixth clean sheet in 2020-21 is also a Premier League best.
Dias proving worth
Against a Southampton side that had scored at least twice in each of their past seven Premier League home games, 23-year-old Portugal international Dias and Stones, 26, held firm under pressure to ensure their side returned to winning ways and reduced the gap to the top four.
Only in the most recent seasons City won the the title, in 2017-18 and 2018-19, have they conceded fewer goals and kept more clean sheets at this stage of the season under Guardiola, having conceded 14 after 13 games as they finished 18 points behind champions Liverpool last season.
"Defensively we were excellent," Guardiola told BBC Sport. "Last season we struggled a lot. Ruben [Dias] has helped us a lot. John [Stones] the last few games has been exceptional."
'Defensively we were excellent' - Guardiola on Man City's hard-fought win
The arrival of Dias from Benfica on a six-year deal in September, after an exposed City were thrashed 5-2 by Leicester, completed Guardiola's long search for a right-sided central defender.
Brought in as a direct replacement for club legend Vincent Kompany, who left Etihad Stadium following City's last title triumph, Dias has quickly helped transform his side's defensive fortunes - a 2-0 defeat by Tottenham the only defeat in his young City career.
With Dias in the side, City's average goals conceded per Premier League game in 2020 has almost halved from 0.9 to 0.5, conceding six times in his 11 appearances compared to 18 in 20 without him.
Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, former England winger Karen Carney said: "As poor as the decision making has been from Manchester City in the attacking third, I must commend the backline. John Stones has been superb, Ruben Dias has been really, really astute and Kyle Walker and Joao Cancelo have been consistent as well."
Stones rebuilding England case
Stones, meanwhile, has quietly re-established himself as Guardiola's favoured option alongside Dias, boasting four consecutive league clean sheets due to his absence for the West Brom draw.
Indeed, City have not conceded in Stones' past nine appearances this season - the only blip on his record arriving in their Premier League opener - a 3-1 win against Wolves in September.
Sidelined by injury four times last season and managing only 16 starts in all competitions out of the 59 games City played in 2019-20, Stones currently ranks top for minutes played per team goal conceded in the English top flight this season, with one conceded in 450 minutes of action.
And, indicative of why he was signed for £47.5m from Everton in Guardiola's first transfer window in 2016, Stones' passing accuracy of 95.1% is the highest of any defender in the Premier League.
No longer first choice for club or country, as he was left out of seven league games before his return against Burnley in November and featured just once in the Three Lions' Euro 2020 qualification campaign, Stones has now started six of City's past eight matches in all competitions and his stock appears on the rise once more.
"John Stones will have done a lot of soul searching," former Tottenham midfielder Jermaine Jenas told Match of the Day. "I know for a fact he's done a lot of work, had a look at himself and Pep has decided to play him ahead of Aymeric Laporte.
"His performances in his past four games have been exemplary.
"On this type of form he's a player [England manager] Gareth Southgate has to have another look at."
Shortcomings in attack continue
City registered 25 shots but failed to beat West Brom on Tuesday and, though they left the south coast with all three points on Saturday, the narrow margin of victory was the latest reminder of their struggle to convert their dominance into goals.
With Brazil striker Gabriel Jesus unfit and club-record goalscorer Sergio Aguero an unused substitute, Ferran Torres failed to affect the game and took one shot prior to being replaced by Riyad Mahrez after 72 minutes.
Their 19 goals after 13 games is well below the standards set by City during Guardiola's tenure, that tally little over half of the 37 they managed at the same stage of last season when they finished second.
The Citizens have never averaged below two goals per league game under the former Barcelona and Bayern Munich boss, but are currently averaging 1.5.
Guardiola responded "absolutely not" when asked if he was considering a move for a striker in the January transfer window, relying instead on Aguero's eventual long-awaited return to full fitness and Jesus to improve on his record of four shots on target in 630 minutes of Premier League football this term.
Until then, City must rely on a steely defence to ensure they stay in the title race.
Speaking at full-time, Carney added: "John Stones and Ruben Dias are absolutely ecstatic but the forwards of Manchester City look miserable!
"It really was a case of superb defence from City today but the decision making of the frontline was really poor. Credit goes to City's defensive display because it was spot on."


bbc--2020-12-19--'I don't believe it. The last time I saw that was under-12s' - the story of India's 36 all out

In the hallway of the broadcast area of Adelaide Oval straight after play , former Australia Test bowler Damien Fleming was wide-eyed .
His disbelief is understandable .
How does a team - the modern , professional India team from the world 's most famously cricket-mad country - get skittled in a Test match for 36 ?
Test cricket 's momentous episodes come at you fast .
Even faster in contrast to the mostly slow and daydreaming passages of play from which they are born .
Yet the Adelaide Test of 2020 had not been slow , careering through its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pace some white-ball matches develop .
But even so , the third innings being completed in 21.2 overs was an acceleration that nobody saw coming .
• None India bowled out for 36 in Adelaide defeat • None Kohli says team will bounce back from 36 all out If you are watching the start of a day 's play and the nightwatchman gets out , that 's no big deal .
Another wicket a few overs later is significant - the obdurate number three removed for a duck - but that 's not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nick the following over .
It 's 15-4 , but you tell yourself the score looks worse because it includes the promoted tailender .
The next pair will adapt their approach and settle into some sort of a rebuild , you think .
They should at least get the score to 60 or 70 and get things going .
Except they do n't .
Another wicket falls on the same score as the previous three , the team 's vice-captain feathering a catch behind .
The skipper hits a defiant boundary but then @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tail is not much chop , the side is 19-6 , and all of a sudden you realise the lowest score in Test history is in play .
India 's players avoided the indignity of crumbling for fewer than 26 , but did n't go much better , setting a new low score for their country .
`` It was staggering , you could not quite believe your eyes at the speed at which it was happening , '' reflected commentator Alison Mitchell .
`` First of all four wickets for no run @ @ @ @ @ @ @ balls , the innings unravelling .
We 've all seen collapses around the world , but this just happened so quickly , in the blink of an eye . ''
The feeling around the ground was one of disbelief .
This year 's pandemic-affected Adelaide Oval was different to previous years : the crowd more sparse , more spaced out , no sign of the usual social areas outside the seating bowl .
The bays of India supporters had brought most of the noise .
Abruptly , they became extremely quiet .
Virat @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but there was the sense by then that everyone was swept up in the inevitability of India 's demise .
Even from Australia supporters , the last few wickets did n't so much bring cheers of celebration but more sedate noises of affirmation : of course they were out .
Everyone gets out today .
People will naturally speculate whether the playing surface was a minefield .
It was n't .
It 's true there was longer grass than previous years , in response to David Warner 's 335 not out a year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I asked head groundsman Damien Hough if that would mean more movement , he smiled knowingly and said : `` I hope so . ''
But his pitch was ideal : there was pace and lift , some sideways movement , and that was it .
`` It was n't excessive , '' said Fleming .
`` But they did n't bowl a bad ball .
And India 's bowlers could rightly feel like 'what have we done ? '
I would n't have wanted to see Australia chasing 180 on that .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the bowlers .
The ABC 's lead commentator Jim Maxwell , having seen six decades of cricket at first hand , was fulsome in his praise .
`` I think those Australian pace bowlers are arguably the finest trio we 've ever had , in terms of their ability to strike , '' he told the BBC .
`` It was a remarkably skilful performance on a pitch that offered just enough .
`` You only have to look at the strike rates of Pat Cummins , Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they 're going to do things like that .
A bit of assistance , that 's all it needs with bowlers of that skill .
`` We 've seen it with Trent Bridge and Stuart Broad , if you get on a roll .
As we all know , the most difficult time to bat is when you 're on nought . ''
• None Listen to Jim Maxwell on BBC World Service 's 'Stumped ' each week Mitchell saw things similarly .
`` The bowling was first class .
Most of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was n't as though the batsmen were slogging or chasing wide deliveries , '' she said .
Really the only dismissals that suggested batsman error were Kohli chasing a wide ball , and wicketkeeper Wriddhiman Saha flicking airborne to mid-wicket .
Otherwise , Cummins and Hazlewood shared nine wickets between them by smart bowling .
There were no miracle balls jagging back a mile .
There were short balls to discomfort the lower order , but everything else just hit the right length , banging down on the seam , and making it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , for Cummins to deck away from Cheteshwar Pujara 's chamois-soft defence .
Just a little for Hazlewood 's first ball of the innings to nick off Mayank Agarwal .
Just a little for Ajinkya Rahane to be drawn into a shot by shape in the air .
An edge first ball for Ravichandran Ashwin , another for Hanuma Vihari and Hazlewood finished with figures of 5-8 .
Cummins ended with 4-21 , being denied the chance of a fifth only by forcing Mohammed Shami to retire hurt .
For Maxwell , it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Adelaide , with greenery required for pink-ball matches at what used to be a venue for big runs .
`` We associate three-day Test matches in Australia with every other ground but this place , '' he said .
`` We 've now seen the two quickest Test matches ever played on this ground , and both in pink-ball Test matches in recent years .
The first one in 2015 , and this one was quicker .
`` That does say something about the format .
And the change in this pitch from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ many timeless Tests played on this ground .
`` It will be an interesting discussion next time India come to Australia about whether they 'll want to play another . ''
Equally interesting might be how England 's team will feel about an Ashes day-nighter in Adelaide one year from now .
Watching India 's fate from afar might be unnerving , but the pink-ball match was the most competitive on the previous visit in 2017 , suiting England 's bowlers .
No-one has a monopoly on movement at pace , it 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • None Documentaries Like Nowhere Else : From inspiration to infamous , the story of Lance Armstrong • None Comedy Like Nowhere Else : Give Kurupt FM a go with the People Just Do Nothing box set

India's Virat Kohli looked shellshocked after his side's collapse
In the hallway of the broadcast area of Adelaide Oval straight after play, former Australia Test bowler Damien Fleming was wide-eyed.
"I see it, I see 36, but I don't believe it," he said. "It's insane. The last time I saw that would have been under-12s."
His disbelief is understandable. How does a team - the modern, professional India team from the world's most famously cricket-mad country - get skittled in a Test match for 36?
Test cricket's momentous episodes come at you fast. Even faster in contrast to the mostly slow and daydreaming passages of play from which they are born.
Yet the Adelaide Test of 2020 had not been slow, careering through its first two days and nights at the pace some white-ball matches develop. But even so, the third innings being completed in 21.2 overs was an acceleration that nobody saw coming.
If you are watching the start of a day's play and the nightwatchman gets out, that's no big deal. Another wicket a few overs later is significant - the obdurate number three removed for a duck - but that's not unusual.
The remaining opener gets a nick the following over.
It's 15-4, but you tell yourself the score looks worse because it includes the promoted tailender. The next pair will adapt their approach and settle into some sort of a rebuild, you think. They should at least get the score to 60 or 70 and get things going.
Except they don't. Another wicket falls on the same score as the previous three, the team's vice-captain feathering a catch behind.
The skipper hits a defiant boundary but then gets caught in the gully.
The tail is not much chop, the side is 19-6, and all of a sudden you realise the lowest score in Test history external-link is in play.
India's players avoided the indignity of crumbling for fewer than 26, but didn't go much better, setting a new low score for their country.
Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood have been touted as Australia's greatest ever pace attack
"It was staggering, you could not quite believe your eyes at the speed at which it was happening," reflected commentator Alison Mitchell.
"First of all four wickets for no run, then five for four in 35 balls, the innings unravelling. We've all seen collapses around the world, but this just happened so quickly, in the blink of an eye."
The feeling around the ground was one of disbelief. This year's pandemic-affected Adelaide Oval was different to previous years: the crowd more sparse, more spaced out, no sign of the usual social areas outside the seating bowl.
The bays of India supporters had brought most of the noise. Abruptly, they became extremely quiet. Virat Kohli's boundary got a cheer, but there was the sense by then that everyone was swept up in the inevitability of India's demise.
Even from Australia supporters, the last few wickets didn't so much bring cheers of celebration but more sedate noises of affirmation: of course they were out. Everyone gets out today.
People will naturally speculate whether the playing surface was a minefield. It wasn't.
It's true there was longer grass than previous years, in response to David Warner's 335 not out a year ago.
Before the match, when I asked head groundsman Damien Hough if that would mean more movement, he smiled knowingly and said: "I hope so."
But his pitch was ideal: there was pace and lift, some sideways movement, and that was it.
"It wasn't excessive," said Fleming. "But they didn't bowl a bad ball. And India's bowlers could rightly feel like 'what have we done?' I wouldn't have wanted to see Australia chasing 180 on that."
It came down to the quality of the bowlers. The ABC's lead commentator Jim Maxwell, having seen six decades of cricket at first hand, was fulsome in his praise.
"I think those Australian pace bowlers are arguably the finest trio we've ever had, in terms of their ability to strike," he told the BBC. "It was a remarkably skilful performance on a pitch that offered just enough.
"You only have to look at the strike rates of Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood to realise when they're on, they're going to do things like that. A bit of assistance, that's all it needs with bowlers of that skill.
"We've seen it with Trent Bridge and Stuart Broad, if you get on a roll. As we all know, the most difficult time to bat is when you're on nought."
India supporters had very little to cheer after the opening minutes of the third day of the first Test at Adelaide
Mitchell saw things similarly. "The bowling was first class. Most of the wickets were to vertical-bat shots. It wasn't as though the batsmen were slogging or chasing wide deliveries," she said.
Really the only dismissals that suggested batsman error were Kohli chasing a wide ball, and wicketkeeper Wriddhiman Saha flicking airborne to mid-wicket.
Otherwise, Cummins and Hazlewood shared nine wickets between them by smart bowling. There were no miracle balls jagging back a mile. There were short balls to discomfort the lower order, but everything else just hit the right length, banging down on the seam, and making it move a little.
Just a little, for Cummins to deck away from Cheteshwar Pujara's chamois-soft defence. Just a little for Hazlewood's first ball of the innings to nick off Mayank Agarwal. Just a little for Ajinkya Rahane to be drawn into a shot by shape in the air.
An edge first ball for Ravichandran Ashwin, another for Hanuma Vihari and Hazlewood finished with figures of 5-8. Cummins ended with 4-21, being denied the chance of a fifth only by forcing Mohammed Shami to retire hurt.
For Maxwell, it's also part of a revolution at Adelaide, with greenery required for pink-ball matches at what used to be a venue for big runs. "We associate three-day Test matches in Australia with every other ground but this place," he said.
"We've now seen the two quickest Test matches ever played on this ground, and both in pink-ball Test matches in recent years. The first one in 2015, and this one was quicker.
"That does say something about the format. And the change in this pitch from the old days, where there were many timeless Tests played on this ground.
"It will be an interesting discussion next time India come to Australia about whether they'll want to play another."
Equally interesting might be how England's team will feel about an Ashes day-nighter in Adelaide one year from now.
Watching India's fate from afar might be unnerving, but the pink-ball match was the most competitive on the previous visit in 2017, suiting England's bowlers. No-one has a monopoly on movement at pace, it's just about who can harness it.


bbc--2020-12-20--Covid: WHO in 'close contact' with UK over new virus variant

The World Health Organization ( WHO ) has said it is in `` close contact '' with UK officials over the emergence of a new variant of coronavirus .
The new variant is spreading more rapidly than the original version , but it is not believed to be more deadly .
Along with the UK , the same mutation of the Covid-19 virus has also been detected in the Netherlands , Denmark and Australia , the WHO told the BBC .
There is no evidence to suggest the new variant reacts differently to vaccines .
In the UK , large @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , are now under a new , stricter level of restrictions in a bid to curb the rapidly spreading virus .
On Sunday , the Netherlands introduced a ban on passenger flights from the UK until 1 January because of the new variant .
The move comes after tests carried out on samples taken in the Netherlands earlier this month revealed the same new variant of coronavirus as that reported in the UK .
Pending `` greater clarity '' on the situation in the UK , the Dutch government said that further `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ introduced to the Netherlands should be minimised as much as possible '' .
The Dutch government also said it would work with other European Union member states in the coming days to `` explore the scope for further limiting the risk of the new strain of the virus being brought over from the UK '' .
Speaking to the BBC 's Andrew Marr programme , WHO epidemiologist Maria van Kerkhove said that specialists had been `` following mutations across the world since the beginning of the pandemic '' .
What do we know @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said that it was in contact with UK officials over the new variant .
It said the UK was sharing information from ongoing studies into the mutation , and that the WHO would update member states and the public `` as we learn more about the characteristics of this virus variant [ and ] any implications '' .
Although there is `` considerable uncertainty '' , UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the new variant may be up to 70 % more transmissible than the old one .
But officials say there is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ variant causes a higher mortality rate or that it is affected any differently by vaccines and treatments .
`` I think this is a situation which is going to make things a lot worse , but there are some really optimistic things if you look once we get the vaccine out , assuming the vaccine works against this , which at the moment is the working assumption , '' said England 's chief medical officer , Prof Chris Whitty .
Mutations of the virus are frequently identified , Dr Van Kerkhove said , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` what these variants do and how they behave '' .
What is happening around the world ?
In the UK , the planned relaxation of Covid rules to allow households to mix over the Christmas period has been scrapped for large parts of south-east England - affecting nearly 18 million people - and cut to just Christmas Day for the rest of England , Scotland and Wales .
Italy has ordered a nationwide lockdown over much of the Christmas and New Year period .
The country will be under `` red-zone '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ non-essential shops , restaurants and bars closed , and Italians only allowed to travel for limited reasons .
The Netherlands and Germany have imposed lockdowns until January .
In Germany , Christmas will see a slight easing , with one household allowed to host up to four close family members .
Austria is set to enter its third lockdown after Christmas .
From 26 December , non-essential shops will be shut and movement outside homes restricted .
France 's President Emmanuel Macron is in a `` stable '' condition after testing positive for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He is still experiencing symptoms , such as coughing and fatigue , but they are not preventing him from working , it said .
Slovakia 's Prime Minister Igor Matovic , who attended an EU summit with Mr Macron last week , said he had tested positive for coronavirus on Friday .
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Covid: WHO in 'close contact' with UK over new virus variant Published 20 December 2020
Image source, Reuters Image caption, There is no current evidence to suggest that the new variant is affected any differently by vaccines
The World Health Organization (WHO) has said it is in "close contact" with UK officials over the emergence of a new variant of coronavirus.
The new variant is spreading more rapidly than the original version, but it is not believed to be more deadly.
Along with the UK, the same mutation of the Covid-19 virus has also been detected in the Netherlands, Denmark and Australia, the WHO told the BBC.
There is no evidence to suggest the new variant reacts differently to vaccines.
In the UK, large parts of south-east England, including London, are now under a new, stricter level of restrictions in a bid to curb the rapidly spreading virus.
On Sunday, European nations including Ireland, Germany, France, Italy, the Netherlands and Belgium all announced a halt to flights and travel from the UK. The measures vary and are initially generally short-term.
An EU meeting will be held on Monday morning to discuss a more co-ordinated response.
The Dutch move came after tests carried out on samples taken in the Netherlands earlier this month revealed the same new variant of coronavirus as that reported in the UK.
Pending "greater clarity" on the situation in the UK, the Dutch government said that further "risk of the new virus strain being introduced to the Netherlands should be minimised as much as possible".
The Dutch government also said it would work with other European Union member states in the coming days to "explore the scope for further limiting the risk of the new strain of the virus being brought over from the UK".
Speaking to the BBC's Andrew Marr programme, WHO epidemiologist Maria van Kerkhove said that specialists had been "following mutations across the world since the beginning of the pandemic".
What do we know about the new variant?
The WHO said that it was in contact with UK officials over the new variant.
It said the UK was sharing information from ongoing studies into the mutation, and that the WHO would update member states and the public "as we learn more about the characteristics of this virus variant [and] any implications".
Although there is "considerable uncertainty", UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the new variant may be up to 70% more transmissible than the old one.
England's chief medical officer, Prof Chris Whitty, said the development was "going to make things a lot worse".
He said, however, that there were "really optimistic things if you look, once we get the vaccine out, assuming the vaccine works against this - which at the moment is the working assumption."
Officials say there is no current evidence to suggest the new variant causes a higher mortality rate or that it is affected any differently by vaccines and treatments.
The WHO's senior emergency officer for Europe, Catherine Smallwood, said nine instances of the same variant as seen in the UK had been reported in Denmark, with one case in Australia and one in the Netherlands.
Several other countries had confirmed variants that "carry some of the genetic changes seen in the UK", Dr Smallwood added.
Mutations of the virus are frequently identified, the WHO's Dr Van Kerkhove told the BBC, adding that it was important to understand "what these variants do and how they behave".
What is happening around the world?
In the UK, the planned relaxation of Covid rules to allow households to mix over the Christmas period has been scrapped for large parts of south-east England - affecting nearly 18 million people - and cut to just Christmas Day for the rest of England, Scotland and Wales.
This video can not be played To play this video you need to enable JavaScript in your browser. Media caption, "Tier 4 residents must stay at home" as PM announces tighter restrictions
Italy has ordered a nationwide lockdown over much of the Christmas and New Year period. The country will be under "red-zone" restrictions over the public holidays, with non-essential shops, restaurants and bars closed, and Italians only allowed to travel for limited reasons.
The Netherlands and Germany have imposed lockdowns until January. In Germany, Christmas will see a slight easing, with one household allowed to host up to four close family members.
Austria is set to enter its third lockdown after Christmas. From 26 December, non-essential shops will be shut and movement outside homes restricted.
Sweden has recommended wearing face masks on public transport during the rush hour, reversing its earlier guidance.
France's President Emmanuel Macron is in a "stable" condition after testing positive for coronavirus, his office said on Saturday. He is still experiencing symptoms, such as coughing and fatigue, but they are not preventing him from working, it said.
Image source, Reuters Image caption, Slovakia's Igor Matovic with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen earlier this month
Slovakia's Prime Minister Igor Matovic, who attended an EU summit with Mr Macron last week, said he had tested positive for coronavirus on Friday.
Several other European leaders who were also at the summit said they would self-isolate.
Australia's most populous state, New South Wales, has announced new restrictions on household gatherings and hospitality venues for the Greater Sydney area in an attempt to contain a growing outbreak there. Residents had already been told to stay at home.
In the US, the army general in charge of distributing Covid vaccines, Gen Gustave Perna, has admitted he failed over the initial number of Pfizer/BioNTech doses promised to states. More than a dozen states have expressed alarm at a cut in the expected number.
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bbc--2020-12-20--Joe Biden says 'no time to waste' as climate team unveiled

Mr Biden has pledged to break away from climate policy under the Trump administration .
He says he will re-join @ @ @ @ @ upon taking office and `` put America back in the business of leading the world @ @ @ @ @

Mr Biden has pledged to break away from climate policy under the Trump administration. He says he will re-join the Paris climate agreement immediately upon taking office and "put America back in the business of leading the world on climate change".


bbc--2020-12-20--Covid: Belgium and Netherlands ban flights from UK over variant

It also said it would work with other European Union member states in the coming days to `` explore the @ @ @ @ @ risk of the new strain of the virus being brought over from the UK '' @

In Ireland, which has significant passenger traffic with the UK at this time of year, the government announced that flights arriving from England, Wales and Scotland would be banned for 48 hours at least from midnight, and "in the interests of public health, people in Britain, regardless of nationality, should not travel to Ireland, by air or sea".


bbc--2020-12-20--Covid in Sydney: New restrictions announced as outbreak grows

Speaking at a news conference , NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian urged people in the Sydney area to wear face masks @ @ @ @ @ not mandatory .
Earlier she pleaded with all residents to limit their activities over the @ @ @ @ @ at home `` unless you really have to '' go out .

Speaking at a news conference, NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian urged people in the Sydney area to wear face masks in public although it was not mandatory. Earlier she pleaded with all residents to limit their activities over the next few days and stay at home "unless you really have to" go out.


bbc--2020-12-20--Cardinal Pell says his conservative views drove public against him

George Pell , the Australian cardinal whose conviction for child abuse was overturned this year , has said his conservative Christian views drove public opinion against him .
Speaking to the BBC , the 79-year-old said there was `` no doubt '' that his direct style and traditional approach to issues such as abortion had contributed to a hostile atmosphere .
The cardinal , who had been one of the Pope 's most senior advisers and always maintained his innocence , had left the Vatican in 2017 to fight the charges against him in his home state of Victoria .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK , Cardinal Pell said he would not apologise for his conservative views , but had said sorry `` many times '' for the Church 's crimes of sexual abuse .
`` I think my style is rather direct - the fact that I defend Christian teachings - is irritating to a lot of people , '' he told BBC 's Radio 4 's Sunday programme .
`` For my basic Christian positions I make no apology at all . ''
Asked about the victims of child abuse and what it must be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ happened to them , Cardinal Pell said he was `` very much aware of their suffering '' .
He said that while he regretted what had happened within the Church , he was `` able to sleep quite well on most occasions '' .
`` I deeply lament the suffering of so many people , but I am also proud of the efforts that we have made in Australia for over 25 years - as inadequate as those might have been . ''
Cardinal Pell also likened his time in segregation in prison @ @ @ @ @ @ @ those training to be priests used to endure periods of silence and isolation .
Who is Cardinal Pell and why was he jailed ?
He was summoned to Rome in 2014 to clean up the Vatican 's finances , and was often described as the Church 's third-ranked official .
He left his post as Vatican treasurer in 2017 to contest accusations that he had sexually abused two choir boys when he was Archbishop of Melbourne .
Why was the conviction overturned ?
In his appeal to the High Court , the cleric @ @ @ @ @ @ @ relied too heavily on evidence from the surviving victim .
His lawyers did not try to discredit that testimony , but argued that other evidence had not been properly considered .
The court 's seven judges ruled unanimously in his favour , and said in their verdict that other testimonies had introduced `` a reasonable possibility that the offending had not taken place '' .

Cardinal Pell says his conservative views drove public against him Published 20 December 2020
Image source, Reuters Image caption, Cardinal Pell had always maintained his innocence
George Pell, the Australian cardinal whose conviction for child abuse was overturned this year, has said his conservative Christian views drove public opinion against him.
Speaking to the BBC, the 79-year-old said there was "no doubt" that his direct style and traditional approach to issues such as abortion had contributed to a hostile atmosphere.
The former Vatican treasurer said he would not apologise for those views.
His case rocked the Catholic Church.
The cardinal, who had been one of the Pope's most senior advisers and always maintained his innocence, had left the Vatican in 2017 to fight the charges against him in his home state of Victoria.
In his first broadcast interview in the UK, Cardinal Pell said he would not apologise for his conservative views, but had said sorry "many times" for the Church's crimes of sexual abuse.
"I think my style is rather direct - the fact that I defend Christian teachings - is irritating to a lot of people," he told BBC's Radio 4's Sunday programme. "For my basic Christian positions I make no apology at all."
Asked about the victims of child abuse and what it must be like living with the consequences of what happened to them, Cardinal Pell said he was "very much aware of their suffering".
He said that while he regretted what had happened within the Church, he was "able to sleep quite well on most occasions".
"I deeply lament the suffering of so many people, but I am also proud of the efforts that we have made in Australia for over 25 years - as inadequate as those might have been."
Cardinal Pell also likened his time in segregation in prison to being in a seminary, where those training to be priests used to endure periods of silence and isolation.
Who is Cardinal Pell and why was he jailed?
The Australian cleric rose in prominence as a strong supporter of traditional Catholic values, often taking conservative views and advocating for priestly celibacy.
He was summoned to Rome in 2014 to clean up the Vatican's finances, and was often described as the Church's third-ranked official.
He left his post as Vatican treasurer in 2017 to contest accusations that he had sexually abused two choir boys when he was Archbishop of Melbourne.
In December 2018, a jury found him guilty of sexually abusing the two 13-year-old choir boys in the mid-1990s.
He was the highest-ranking Catholic figure to receive such a conviction.
The trial heard testimony from a man alleged to be the sole surviving victim. Dozens of other witnesses provided alibis and other evidence.
Cardinal Pell appealed against the verdict in Victoria's Court of Appeal last year, but three judges upheld the decision by a 2-1 majority.
Why was the conviction overturned?
The High Court of Australia quashed the verdict in April, bringing an immediate end to Cardinal Pell's six-year jail sentence.
In his appeal to the High Court, the cleric argued that the jury's verdict had relied too heavily on evidence from the surviving victim. His lawyers did not try to discredit that testimony, but argued that other evidence had not been properly considered.
This video can not be played To play this video you need to enable JavaScript in your browser. Media caption, Australian court frees Cardinal Pell
The court's seven judges ruled unanimously in his favour, and said in their verdict that other testimonies had introduced "a reasonable possibility that the offending had not taken place".
Cardinal Pell said at the time that an injustice had been "remedied", and that he held "no ill will to my accuser".


bbc--2020-12-19--Brexit: No trade deal unless 'substantial shift' from EU, UK says

Senior MEPs in the European Parliament have said they will not be `` rushed '' into signing off a deal @ @ @ @ @ to see the text of any agreement by Sunday if they are to approve it @ @ @ @ @ year .

"We respect the sovereignty of the UK and we expect the same. Both the EU and Britain must have the right to set their own laws and control their own waters. And we should both be able to act when our interests are at stake."


bbc--2020-12-20--Boudicca revolt: Essex dig reveals 'evidence of Roman reprisals'

The enclosure was `` clearly an important place '' with an `` avenue-like entrance '' and continued to expand after @ @ @ @ @ , so archaeologists were surprised it was not resettled after its destruction .

The enclosure was "clearly an important place" with an "avenue-like entrance" and continued to expand after the Roman invasion in AD43, so archaeologists were surprised it was not resettled after its destruction.


bbc--2020-12-20--Budget smartphones: What do you get for £100?

The price of premium smartphones is ever-increasing with the latest folding Samsung device costing about £1,800 .
To find out @ @ @ @ @ lower end of the market , BBC Click 's Chris Fox went hands-on with eight @ @ @ @ @ £70 to £379 .
The performance , cameras and features were all put to the @ @ @ @ @ fared .
Chris tested the Nokia 1.3 , Alcatel 1S , Nokia 5.3 , Xiaomi @ @ @ @ @ 10L , Google Pixel 4a , Samsung Galaxy A42 5G and the OnePlus Nord .
@ @ @ @ @ website and @ BBCClick

The price of premium smartphones is ever-increasing with the latest folding Samsung device costing about £1,800.
To find out what was available at the lower end of the market, BBC Click's Chris Fox went hands-on with eight new smartphones priced from about £70 to £379.
The performance, cameras and features were all put to the test to see how they fared.
Chris tested the Nokia 1.3, Alcatel 1S, Nokia 5.3, Xiaomi Poco X3 NFC, TCL 10L, Google Pixel 4a, Samsung Galaxy A42 5G and the OnePlus Nord.
See more at Click's website and @BBCClick


bbc--2020-12-20--Superb Alvarez inflicts Smith's first career loss with emphatic display

Last updated on .From the section Boxing Saul 'Canelo ' Alvarez produced a near-flawless display to unpick Callum Smith and take the British fighter 's WBA world super-middleweight title .
Smith , 30 , struggled to land anything heavy and was told by his corner he had `` one more round '' after a torrid ninth .
He admirably fought on but lost 119-109 119-109 117-111 on the judges ' cards .
Alvarez - who has only one defeat on his record from 57 fights - also picked up the vacant WBC world super-middleweight title , meaning he holds two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` I 'm devastated .
I came here to win , '' Smith told DAZN at the Alamodome in San Antonio .
`` No excuses , he was very good .
`` It could have been a better version of me .
He is smart and he is clever .
He closes ground , sets traps and before you know it he 's closed the ground up .
I maybe let him close the ground up too easily . ''
Smith 's seven-inch height advantage had formed much of the foundation for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ status .
But Alvarez refused to take a step back at any point .
He shut down space patiently , remained compact , showed head movement and ultimately made himself difficult to hit .
When he was close enough , he jabbed smartly and loaded up with his trademark shots to the body .
At the end of the fifth , Smith 's three older fighting brothers shouted `` better '' from ringside as he began to throw more but in the seventh , Alvarez - the youngest of seven fighting brothers - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and a fine uppercut .
A hard right hand sent Smith slumping into the ropes in the ninth and , with his nose bloodied , he replied to trainer Joe Gallagher that he was `` fine '' after it was made clear he would only get one more round .
Ominously , four-weight world champion Alvarez explained he knew he could take Smith 's power `` from the first round '' and it was later revealed the Liverpool fighter may have torn a bicep early in the contest .
Alvarez simply presented a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
By the 10th round , US broadcasters were calling the fight `` a bad beating '' .
`` This is one of the best nights I have had , '' said Alvarez , who added he would consider a third fight with Gennady Golovkin , who beat Kamil Szeremeta 24 hours earlier .
`` One of the greatest nights .
I will go for more .
I want all the belts , it does n't matter who has them .
I do n't run from anybody .
I have fought against the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I fight the best . ''
Alvarez has now reeled off five wins since his six-month ban for failing drugs tests in 2018 .
His sole loss in 15 years was against Floyd Mayweather in 2013 but his current momentum and this well-rounded display underline why he is the sport 's best-paid star .
A restricted crowd of about 12,000 may have impacted on his overall earnings in his first bout in 13 months but his quality is undeniable , his rivals look a class below , and crucially his hunger appears undiminished @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said : `` It 's tough to get out of bed to do roadwork at 5am when you 've been sleeping in silk pyjamas . ''
The sight of Alvarez walking round the fight hotel 's bubble in designer pyjamas this week prompted questions as to how much more he could give .
His status , earning power and lifestyle are far removed from the life he knew on his family 's farm as a child but there can be no doubt his grit and desire remain , and future rivals will need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Smith can be proud of his own journey to face a man he once dreamed of fighting .
Alvarez , though , was simply too good .
Class , tears and call-outs - what they said ...
Cutting a dejected figure in his corner , Smith said he would take time out and consider a move up to the 175lbs light-heavyweight division .
His sentiment led BBC 5 Live commentator Mike Costello to wonder if he was considering calling time on his career at the age of 30 .
Britain 's Billy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ belt at super-middleweight - quickly tweeted to call on Alvarez to `` get it on '' in 2021 but for the most part , the boxing world was simply left praising the sport 's biggest star .
Promoter Eddie Hearn confirmed Smith damaged his arm early on in his San Antonio defeat and revealed the fighter was `` in tears '' in the changing room .
`` It was a masterclass from Canelo , '' Hearn told 5 Live .
`` I just left Callum 's changing room and everyone is talking about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Callum never stopped throwing but he came up against the best fighter on the planet . ''
Former world champion George Groves told BBC Radio 5 Live : `` Canelo bullied Smith , marched him down and used his punch power to control the entire fight . ''
And BBC Radio 5 Live boxing analyst Steve Bunce added : `` That 's what happens when you fight Canelo .
You discover things about yourself you did n't know and things about him you did n't recognise before you got in the ring @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Canelo took away his height , reach and confidence .
That is class . ''
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Alvarez applied pressure and regularly backed Smith to the ropes
Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez produced a near-flawless display to unpick Callum Smith and take the British fighter's WBA world super-middleweight title.
The Mexican, 30, shone in Texas as he all but froze Smith out over 12 rounds with calculated pressure, spiteful punching and evasive defensive work.
Smith, 30, struggled to land anything heavy and was told by his corner he had "one more round" after a torrid ninth.
He admirably fought on but lost 119-109 119-109 117-111 on the judges' cards.
Alvarez - who has only one defeat on his record from 57 fights - also picked up the vacant WBC world super-middleweight title, meaning he holds two of the four significant belts at 168lbs.
"I'm devastated. I came here to win," Smith told DAZN at the Alamodome in San Antonio. "No excuses, he was very good.
"It could have been a better version of me. He is smart and he is clever. He closes ground, sets traps and before you know it he's closed the ground up. I maybe let him close the ground up too easily."
'A bad beating'
Around 12,000 fans were allowed into the Alamodome and Alvarez used a Mexican Mariachi band during his ring walk
Smith's seven-inch height advantage had formed much of the foundation for those suggesting he could defy his underdog status.
But Alvarez refused to take a step back at any point. He shut down space patiently, remained compact, showed head movement and ultimately made himself difficult to hit.
When he was close enough, he jabbed smartly and loaded up with his trademark shots to the body.
At the end of the fifth, Smith's three older fighting brothers shouted "better" from ringside as he began to throw more but in the seventh, Alvarez - the youngest of seven fighting brothers - landed hard body shots on the counter and a fine uppercut.
A hard right hand sent Smith slumping into the ropes in the ninth and, with his nose bloodied, he replied to trainer Joe Gallagher that he was "fine" after it was made clear he would only get one more round.
Ominously, four-weight world champion Alvarez explained he knew he could take Smith's power "from the first round" and it was later revealed the Liverpool fighter may have torn a bicep early in the contest.
Alvarez simply presented a puzzle his opponent never looked like solving. By the 10th round, US broadcasters were calling the fight "a bad beating".
"This is one of the best nights I have had," said Alvarez, who added he would consider a third fight with Gennady Golovkin, who beat Kamil Szeremeta 24 hours earlier.
"One of the greatest nights. I will go for more. I want all the belts, it doesn't matter who has them. I don't run from anybody. I have fought against the best. I have shown the world I fight the best."
A hunger clearly remains
Alvarez now has two of the four world super-middleweight titles
Alvarez has now reeled off five wins since his six-month ban for failing drugs tests in 2018. His sole loss in 15 years was against Floyd Mayweather in 2013 but his current momentum and this well-rounded display underline why he is the sport's best-paid star.
A restricted crowd of about 12,000 may have impacted on his overall earnings in his first bout in 13 months but his quality is undeniable, his rivals look a class below, and crucially his hunger appears undiminished.
The iconic middleweight Marvin Hagler once said: "It's tough to get out of bed to do roadwork at 5am when you've been sleeping in silk pyjamas."
The sight of Alvarez walking round the fight hotel's bubble in designer pyjamas this week prompted questions as to how much more he could give.
His status, earning power and lifestyle are far removed from the life he knew on his family's farm as a child but there can be no doubt his grit and desire remain, and future rivals will need to find something special to stop him.
Smith can be proud of his own journey to face a man he once dreamed of fighting. Alvarez, though, was simply too good.
Class, tears and call-outs - what they said...
Alvarez now has a record of 54 wins, two draws and one defeat
Cutting a dejected figure in his corner, Smith said he would take time out and consider a move up to the 175lbs light-heavyweight division.
His sentiment led BBC 5 Live commentator Mike Costello to wonder if he was considering calling time on his career at the age of 30.
Britain's Billy Joe Saunders - who holds the WBO belt at super-middleweight - quickly tweeted to call on Alvarez to "get it on" in 2021 but for the most part, the boxing world was simply left praising the sport's biggest star.
Promoter Eddie Hearn confirmed Smith damaged his arm early on in his San Antonio defeat and revealed the fighter was "in tears" in the changing room.
"It was a masterclass from Canelo," Hearn told 5 Live.
"I just left Callum's changing room and everyone is talking about Alvarez. He's just so good. Callum never stopped throwing but he came up against the best fighter on the planet."
Former world champion George Groves told BBC Radio 5 Live: "Canelo bullied Smith, marched him down and used his punch power to control the entire fight."
And BBC Radio 5 Live boxing analyst Steve Bunce added: "That's what happens when you fight Canelo. You discover things about yourself you didn't know and things about him you didn't recognise before you got in the ring.
"Smith has been broken. Canelo took away his height, reach and confidence. That is class."


bbc--2020-12-19--Shearer unsure 'awful' Arsenal will survive as Arteta admits 'other teams want it more'

Last updated on .From the section Arsenal Former England captain Alan Shearer says he would `` not be so sure '' about Arsenal 's chances of Premier League survival at the end of this season .
They have 14 points from 14 games and have lost eight of those matches .
Asked if they will stay up , Shearer replied : `` I would n't be so sure .
Not with that starting team and the attitude of some of those players . ''
The 2-1 defeat against Everton at Goodison Park on Saturday left Mikel Arteta 's side four @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Gunners have not scored from open play in any of their past five top-flight games away from home .
Nicolas Pepe , the club 's record £72m signing , scored just his second league goal of the season from the penalty spot .
Shearer added on Match of the Day : `` Awful , no creativity , players going through the motions , not working hard enough and not closing down .
`` Mikel Arteta should be a worried man relying on that group of players trying to save his job .
Twelve @ @ @ @ @ @ @ options .
`` Against Everton , Pepe was not prepared to get into the box , he was jogging , sometimes walking .
He has got to do more .
`` There are a few players in that team who are not giving everything for the manager .
Arsenal are never going to score goals playing like that . ''
Arteta admitted Arsenal `` are in a big fight '' and the players `` hurt right now '' .
The Spaniard added : `` We need to generate more to win football matches @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the other team wants it more .
The boys are absolutely still fighting .
`` The way the boys reacted in the dressing room tells me they have the belief .
When you lose lots of games for different reasons it hurts a lot .
`` We have to be better , it was n't about Everton , it was about us . ''
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Last updated on .From the section Arsenal
Former England captain Alan Shearer says he would "not be so sure" about Arsenal's chances of Premier League survival at the end of this season.
The Gunners have made their worst start to a season since the 1974-75 campaign and lie 15th in the table.
They have 14 points from 14 games and have lost eight of those matches.
Asked if they will stay up, Shearer replied: "I wouldn't be so sure. Not with that starting team and the attitude of some of those players."
The 2-1 defeat against Everton at Goodison Park on Saturday left Mikel Arteta's side four points above the relegation zone.
The Gunners have not scored from open play in any of their past five top-flight games away from home.
Nicolas Pepe, the club's record £72m signing, scored just his second league goal of the season from the penalty spot.
Arsenal players still have belief - Arteta
Shearer added on Match of the Day: "Awful, no creativity, players going through the motions, not working hard enough and not closing down.
"Mikel Arteta should be a worried man relying on that group of players trying to save his job. Twelve goals all season, they have no options.
"Against Everton, Pepe was not prepared to get into the box, he was jogging, sometimes walking. He has got to do more.
"There are a few players in that team who are not giving everything for the manager. Arsenal are never going to score goals playing like that."
Arteta admitted Arsenal "are in a big fight" and the players "hurt right now".
The Spaniard added: "We need to generate more to win football matches. When it comes to small details, the other team wants it more. The boys are absolutely still fighting.
"The way the boys reacted in the dressing room tells me they have the belief. When you lose lots of games for different reasons it hurts a lot.
"We have to be better, it wasn't about Everton, it was about us."


bbc--2020-12-20--Christian's 50 from 15 balls helps Sixers beat Strikers in Big Bash

Last updated on .From the section Cricket Dan Christian smashed the second-fastest half-century in Big Bash history to propel Sydney Sixers to a 38-run victory over Adelaide Strikers .
The 37-year-old then struck with the ball , removing Sussex 's Phil Salt for 28 to end a rapid start to the chase .
Adelaide ended on 139-7 , with Carlos Brathwaite , Steve O'Keefe and Ben Manenti taking two wickets each .
The Strikers at least take the Bash Boost point for having the better score after 10 overs , while the Sixers climb to third , three points behind @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hand .
Christian 's assault was all the more remarkable given the struggles his team-tames had experienced earlier against the moving ball .
The Sixers were 58-3 after one ball of the 12th over when Christian arrived at the crease , only for the man who captained Nottinghamshire to the T20 Blast title in the past summer to belt five sixes and four fours .
The only faster half-century in the BBL is the 12-ball 50 smashed by Chris Gayle for Melbourne Renegades against the Strikers in 2016 .
Although Salt and Jake @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they were tied down in the middle overs by the off-spin of Manenti , the experience of left-arm spinner O'Keefe and the tricks of Christian , who took 1-25 from his four overs .
• None Documentaries Like Nowhere Else : From inspiration to infamous , the story of Lance Armstrong • None Comedy Like Nowhere Else : Give Kurupt FM a go with the People Just Do Nothing box set

Last updated on .From the section Cricket
Dan Christian has played 329 Twenty20 games - Shane Watson is the only Australian to have played more
Big Bash League, Hobart Sydney Sixers 177-5 (20 overs): Christian 50 (16) Adelaide Strikers 139-7 (20 overs): O'Keefe 2-8 Sydney Sixers won by 38 runs Scorecard
Dan Christian hit the second-fastest half-century in Big Bash history to propel the Sydney Sixers to a 38-run win against the Adelaide Strikers.
Christian reached 50 from only 15 balls in Hobart to help the defending champions reach 177-5 from 20 overs.
The 37-year-old then struck with the ball, removing Sussex's Phil Salt for 28 to end a rapid start to the chase.
Adelaide ended on 139-7, with Carlos Brathwaite, Steve O'Keefe and Ben Manenti taking two wickets each.
The Strikers at least took the Bash Boost point for having the better score after 10 overs, while the Sixers climb to third - three points behind leaders Hobart Hurricanes with a game in hand.
Christian's assault was all the more remarkable given the struggles his team-mates had experienced earlier against the moving ball.
The Sixers were labouring on 58-3 after one ball of the 12th over when Christian arrived at the crease but the man who captained Nottinghamshire to the T20 Blast title in the past summer then belted five sixes and four fours.
The only quicker half-century in the BBL is the 12-ball 50 smashed by West Indies batsman Chris Gayle for the Melbourne Renegades against the Strikers in 2016.
Although Salt and Jake Weatherald gave Adelaide a flying start, they were tied down in the middle overs by the off-spin of Manenti, the experience of left-arm spinner O'Keefe and the tricks of Christian, who took 1-25 from his four overs.


bbc--2020-12-20--Bills win first AFC East title since 1995 as they head for NFL play-offs

Last updated on .From the section American Football The Buffalo Bills became the fifth team to book a place in the NFL play-offs after clinching their first division title since 1995 .
That clinched the AFC East title with two games of the regular season left .
The New England Patriots , six-time Super Bowl champions , have won the AFC East in 16 of the past 17 years .
Under head coach Sean McDermott , the Bills have now reached the play-offs in three out of four years , having ended their 17-year play-off drought in 2017 .
• @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he has helped change the game Only Aaron Rodgers , Russell Wilson and Patrick Mahomes have more touchdown passes this season than Allen , who now has 30 .
The 24-year-old completed 28 of 40 attempts against Denver for 359 passing yards and rushed for 33 , while Stefon Diggs had 11 receptions for 147 yards .
Devin Singletary also ran for a touchdown while Jerry Hughes had a fumble recovery for another score as the Broncos slipped to 5-9 .
The Bills have won all four games since having a bye in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Chiefs , Pittsburgh Steelers , Green Bay Packers and New Orleans Saints in securing a place in the post-season .
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Last updated on .From the section American Football
Follow the NFL on the BBC Watch The NFL Show every Saturday night on BBC One, BBC iPlayer, BBC Red Button, the BBC Sport website and the BBC Sport app. Follow live text commentary every Sunday from 17:45 GMT and video clips, analysis and highlights during the week.
The Buffalo Bills became the fifth team to book a place in the NFL play-offs after clinching their first division title since 1995.
Quarterback Josh Allen threw for two touchdowns and ran for two others as the Bills won 48-19 at the Denver Broncos to move to an 11-3 record.
That clinched the AFC East title with two games of the regular season left.
The New England Patriots, six-time Super Bowl champions, have won the AFC East in 16 of the past 17 years.
Under head coach Sean McDermott, the Bills have now reached the play-offs in three out of four years, having ended their 17-year play-off drought in 2017.
Only Aaron Rodgers, Russell Wilson and Patrick Mahomes have more touchdown passes this season than Allen, who now has 30.
The 24-year-old completed 28 of 40 attempts against Denver for 359 passing yards and rushed for 33, while Stefon Diggs had 11 receptions for 147 yards.
Devin Singletary also ran for a touchdown while Jerry Hughes had a fumble recovery for another score as the Broncos slipped to 5-9.
The Bills have won all four games since having a bye in week 11 and follow the Kansas City Chiefs, Pittsburgh Steelers, Green Bay Packers and New Orleans Saints in securing a place in the post-season.


bbc--2020-12-19--Seven goals in a game again - but this time Liverpool show form of champions

When Liverpool lost 7-2 to Aston Villa on 4 October , their ability to defend the Premier League title they won in such style in 2019-20 was questioned .
Their performance at Selhurst Park was an ominous one for those rivals who would like to think they can capitalise on the season 's unusual circumstances to mount a challenge - and who would like to prevent the Reds from winning back-to-back titles for the first time since 1984 .
A piece of Christmas history but 'season is not finished' Liverpool are now the first side to spend three consecutive Christmases @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they achieved the feat from 1978 to 1980 .
And the stats make good reading for the Reds - 11 out of the past 15 sides leading the way on 25 December have gone on to win the title .
Liverpool have a five-point lead at the summit of the table after Everton 's win over Arsenal on Saturday .
Manager Jurgen Klopp , though , indicated that this was no time to be getting over-excited .
`` I do n't feel satisfaction - I am happy in the moment absolutely because it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time like this it makes no sense to be over the moon about something , '' said Klopp .
`` The season is not finished .
There are a few games to come but we will be ready . ''
Klopp is a much happier manager now than he was after that cold October night in the West Midlands .
After the shock defeat by Villa , he said his side had `` lost the plot '' .
Liverpool became the first reigning champions to concede seven goals in a league game since @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
But since the embarrassment at Villa Park , Klopp 's side have marched up the table .
Their phenomenal attacking display at Selhurst Park was a significant statement of intent .
They do n't have the 10-point cushion they enjoyed on Christmas Day 2019 - and Tottenham could reduce their lead to three points when they face Leicester on Sunday .
But Liverpool 's lead does mean their rivals are already playing catch-up .
Just how good were Liverpool against Palace ?
`` We scored wonderful goals in the first half and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' Klopp said .
`` We controlled the game and did n't let Crystal Palace back in , so [ it was a ] wonderful performance . ''
The facts do n't lie .
Liverpool dominated possession , had five different scorers and attempted 14 shots to Palace 's five .
On BBC Sport 's player rater , no Liverpool man got lower than 7.62 .
`` We were clinical in front of goal , '' added captain Jordan Henderson .
`` All of the finishes were brilliant .
Mo 's [ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one - and Bobby 's [ Firmino ] were brilliant .
Taki 's [ Minamino ] too .
`` We are focused on what 's important to us - whether that 's the Premier League , the Champions League , the FA Cup , etc .
It 's a difficult period for everyone so we need to keep going .
We have a few players coming back from injury which is important for us . ''
Former England captain Alan Shearer said on Match of the Day : `` It was a devastating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ understanding of what is in and around the players and then the space for others to run it is so intelligent .
`` Just sit back and admire Salah 's second goal , it was magnificent from all the forwards on the pitch . ''
Ex-Newcastle and Tottenham midfielder Jermaine Jenas added : `` There are a lot of players in the Liverpool team that can be rested but the demands and the drive comes from the captain , the leader Jordan Henderson .
`` He leads by example and does so much @ @ @ @ @ @ @ forward and lose the ball , Henderson is in a great position to help out .
We give Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andrew Robertson the plaudits for all the assists they get but Henderson does a lot of their work . ''
'We are humiliated by the result' A manager since 1976 , Roy Hodgson has seen enough of football 's highs and lows to maintain a sense of perspective .
The Crystal Palace boss is not a man to use words such as `` humiliated '' lightly .
So the fact that he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ indicator of his strength of feeling .
`` There is nothing positive I can say , '' said Hodgson , who looked a forlorn figure .
`` We are humiliated by the result .
We take it very badly .
For most of us in the dressing room , we have not been on the end of a 7-0 defeat .
`` We just have to get over it .
There is no point dwelling on it and we have to learn lessons . ''
The result was Liverpool 's first league victory @ @ @ @ @ @ @ goals since a 9-0 win over Crystal Palace in September 1989 .
Liverpool were top at Christmas that season too .
They went on to win the title by nine points .
• None Stream all the goals and highlights from Saturday 's Premier League action now

Jurgen Klopp was named 2020's Best Fifa men's coach on 17 December
When Liverpool lost 7-2 to Aston Villa on 4 October, their ability to defend the Premier League title they won in such style in 2019-20 was questioned.
But by scoring seven goals of their own against Crystal Palace on Saturday, they underlined their status as favourites.
Their performance at Selhurst Park was an ominous one for those rivals who would like to think they can capitalise on the season's unusual circumstances to mount a challenge - and who would like to prevent the Reds from winning back-to-back titles for the first time since 1984.
A piece of Christmas history but 'season is not finished'
Outstanding Liverpool scored wonderful goals - Klopp
Liverpool are now the first side to spend three consecutive Christmases on top of the English league since they achieved the feat from 1978 to 1980.
And the stats make good reading for the Reds - 11 out of the past 15 sides leading the way on 25 December have gone on to win the title.
Liverpool have a five-point lead at the summit of the table after Everton's win over Arsenal on Saturday.
Manager Jurgen Klopp, though, indicated that this was no time to be getting over-excited.
"I don't feel satisfaction - I am happy in the moment absolutely because it was a top game but at a time like this it makes no sense to be over the moon about something," said Klopp.
"The season is not finished. There are a few games to come but we will be ready."
Liverpool have lost just once in all competitions since losing 7-2 to Aston Villa on 4 October
Klopp is a much happier manager now than he was after that cold October night in the West Midlands.
After the shock defeat by Villa, he said his side had "lost the plot".
Liverpool became the first reigning champions to concede seven goals in a league game since Sunderland beat Arsenal 7-1 in September 1953.
But since the embarrassment at Villa Park, Klopp's side have marched up the table. Their phenomenal attacking display at Selhurst Park was a significant statement of intent.
They don't have the 10-point cushion they enjoyed on Christmas Day 2019 - and Tottenham could reduce their lead to three points when they face Leicester on Sunday. But Liverpool's lead does mean their rivals are already playing catch-up.
Liverpool's win was their first by a margin of seven goals away from home in the top flight
Just how good were Liverpool against Palace?
In short - very.
"We scored wonderful goals in the first half and even more so in the second half," Klopp said. "We controlled the game and didn't let Crystal Palace back in, so [it was a] wonderful performance."
The facts don't lie. Liverpool dominated possession, had five different scorers and attempted 14 shots to Palace's five. On BBC Sport's player rater, no Liverpool man got lower than 7.62.
"We were clinical in front of goal," added captain Jordan Henderson. "All of the finishes were brilliant. Mo's [Salah] was brilliant - that last one - and Bobby's [Firmino] were brilliant. Taki's [Minamino] too.
"We are focused on what's important to us - whether that's the Premier League, the Champions League, the FA Cup, etc. It's a difficult period for everyone so we need to keep going. We have a few players coming back from injury which is important for us."
Former England captain Alan Shearer said on Match of the Day: "It was a devastating display of finishing. The appreciation and understanding of what is in and around the players and then the space for others to run it is so intelligent.
"Just sit back and admire Salah's second goal, it was magnificent from all the forwards on the pitch."
Ex-Newcastle and Tottenham midfielder Jermaine Jenas added: "There are a lot of players in the Liverpool team that can be rested but the demands and the drive comes from the captain, the leader Jordan Henderson.
"He leads by example and does so much selfless work. If the full-backs go forward and lose the ball, Henderson is in a great position to help out. We give Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andrew Robertson the plaudits for all the assists they get but Henderson does a lot of their work."
'We are humiliated by the result'
A manager since 1976, Roy Hodgson has seen enough of football's highs and lows to maintain a sense of perspective. The Crystal Palace boss is not a man to use words such as "humiliated" lightly.
So the fact that he used that word on Saturday was an indicator of his strength of feeling.
"There is nothing positive I can say," said Hodgson, who looked a forlorn figure. "We are humiliated by the result. We take it very badly. For most of us in the dressing room, we have not been on the end of a 7-0 defeat.
"We just have to get over it. There is no point dwelling on it and we have to learn lessons."
The result was Liverpool's first league victory by a margin of seven or more goals since a 9-0 win over Crystal Palace in September 1989.
Liverpool were top at Christmas that season too. They went on to win the title by nine points.


bbc--2020-12-21--Covid: US reaches long awaited deal for coronavirus aid

The deal was announced on Sunday by Senate majority leader Mitch McConnell .
`` We can finally report what our @ @ @ @ @ for a very long time : More help is on the way , '' he @ @

The deal was announced on Sunday by Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, a Republican. Speaking on Monday ahead of the vote, he said: "None of us think this legislation is perfect, but a big bipartisan majority of us recognise the incredible amount of good it will do when we send it to the president's desk. The American people have waited long enough."


bbc--2020-12-20--New coronavirus variant: What do we know?

The rapid spread of a new variant of coronavirus has been blamed for the introduction of strict tier four mixing rules for millions of people , harsher restrictions on mixing at Christmas in England , Scotland and Wales , and other countries placing the UK on a travel ban .
So how has it gone from being non-existent to the most common form of the virus in parts of England in a matter of months ?
The government 's advisers on new infections have `` moderate '' confidence that it is more able to transmit than other variants .
As @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all the time and it 's vital to keep a laser focus on whether the virus ' behaviour is changing .
Why is this variant causing concern ?
However , we do not have absolute certainty .
New strains can become more common simply by being in the right place at the right time - such as London , which had only tier two restrictions until recently .
`` Laboratory experiments are required , but do you want to wait weeks or months [ to see the results and take action to limit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ these circumstances , '' Prof Nick Loman , from the Covid-19 Genomics UK Consortium , told me .
How much faster is it spreading ?
It was first detected in September .
In November around a quarter of cases in London were the new variant .
This reached nearly two-thirds of cases in mid-December .
You can see how the variant has come to dominate the results of testing in some centres such as the Milton Keynes Lighthouse Laboratory .
Mathematicians have been running the numbers on the spread of different variants in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an edge this one might have .
The figure mentioned by Prime Minister Boris Johnson was that the variant may be up to 70 % more transmissible .
He said this may be increasing the R number - which indicates if an epidemic is growing or shrinking - by 0.4 .
During the talk he said : `` It is really too early to tell… but from what we see so far it is growing very quickly , it is growing faster than [ a previous variant ] ever grew , but it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this . ''
There is no `` nailed on '' figure for how much more infectious the variant may be .
Scientists , whose work is not yet public , have told me figures both much higher and much lower than 70 % .
`` The amount of evidence in the public domain is woefully inadequate to draw strong or firm opinions on whether the virus has truly increased transmission , '' said Prof Jonathan Ball , a virologist at the University of Nottingham .
How far has it spread ?
It is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ patient in the UK or has been imported from a country with a lower ability to monitor coronavirus mutations .
The variant can be found across the UK , except Northern Ireland , but it is heavily concentrated in London , the South East and eastern England .
Cases elsewhere in the country do not seem to have taken off .
Data from Nextstrain , which has been monitoring the genetic codes of the viral samples around the world , suggest cases in Denmark and Australia have come from the UK .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ similar variant that has emerged in South Africa shares some of the same mutations , but appears to be unrelated to this one .
Has this happened before ?
The virus that was first detected in Wuhan , China , is not the same one you will find in most corners of the world .
What do we know about the new mutations ?
There have been changes to the spike protein - this is the key the virus uses to unlock the doorway to our body 's cells .
This is where @ @ @ @ @ @ @ surface of our body 's cells .
Any changes that make it easier for the virus to get inside are likely to give it an edge .
Where has it come from ?
The most likely explanation is the variant has emerged in a patient with a weakened immune system that was unable to beat the virus .
Does it make the infection more deadly ?
There is no evidence to suggest that it does , although this will need to be monitored .
Will the vaccines work against the new variant ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ several different parts of the virus , so even though part of the spike has mutated , the vaccines should still work .
`` But if we let it add more mutations , then you start worrying , '' said Prof Gupta .
`` This virus is potentially on a pathway for vaccine escape , it has taken the first couple of steps towards that . ''
Vaccine escape happens when the virus changes so it dodges the full effect of the vaccine and continues to infect people .
This may be the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the virus .
This variant is just the latest to show the virus is continuing to adapt as it infects more and more of us .
A presentation by Prof David Robertson , from the University of Glasgow on Friday , concluded : `` The virus will probably be able to generate vaccine escape mutants . ''
That would put us in a position similar to flu , where the vaccines need to be regularly updated .
Fortunately the vaccines we have are very easy to tweak .

New coronavirus variant: What do we know? Published 20 December 2020
Image source, Getty Images
The rapid spread of a new variant of coronavirus has been blamed for the introduction of strict tier four mixing rules for millions of people, harsher restrictions on mixing at Christmas in England, Scotland and Wales, and other countries placing the UK on a travel ban.
So how has it gone from being non-existent to the most common form of the virus in parts of England in a matter of months?
The government's advisers on new infections now say they have "high" confidence that it is more able to transmit than other variants.
All the work is at an early stage, contains huge uncertainties and a long list of unanswered questions.
As I've written before, viruses mutate all the time and it's vital to keep a laser focus on whether the virus' behaviour is changing.
Why is this variant causing concern?
Three things are coming together that mean it is attracting attention:
It is rapidly replacing other versions of the virus
It has mutations that affect part of the virus likely to be important
Some of those mutations have already been shown in the lab to increase the ability of the virus to infect cells
All of these come together to build a case for a virus that can spread more easily.
However, we do not have absolute certainty. New strains can become more common simply by being in the right place at the right time - such as London, which had only tier two restrictions until recently.
But already the justification for tier four restrictions is in part to reduce the spread of the variant.
"Laboratory experiments are required, but do you want to wait weeks or months [to see the results and take action to limit the spread]? Probably not in these circumstances," Prof Nick Loman, from the Covid-19 Genomics UK Consortium, told me.
How much faster is it spreading?
It was first detected in September. In November around a quarter of cases in London were the new variant. This reached nearly two-thirds of cases in mid-December.
You can see how the variant has come to dominate the results of testing in some centres such as the Milton Keynes Lighthouse Laboratory.
This Twitter post cannot be displayed in your browser. Please enable Javascript or try a different browser. View original content on Twitter The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Skip twitter post by Tony Cox Allow Twitter content? This article contains content provided by Twitter. We ask for your permission before anything is loaded, as they may be using cookies and other technologies. You may want to read Twitter’s cookie policy, external and privacy policy, external before accepting. To view this content choose ‘accept and continue’. Accept and continue The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. End of twitter post by Tony Cox
Mathematicians have been running the numbers on the spread of different variants in an attempt to calculate how much of an edge this one might have.
But teasing apart what is due to people's behaviour and what is due to the virus is hard.
The figure mentioned by Prime Minister Boris Johnson was that the variant may be up to 70% more transmissible. He said this may be increasing the R number - which indicates if an epidemic is growing or shrinking - by 0.4.
That 70% number appeared in a presentation by Dr Erik Volz, from Imperial College London, on Friday.
During the talk he said: "It is really too early to tell… but from what we see so far it is growing very quickly, it is growing faster than [a previous variant] ever grew, but it is important to keep an eye on this."
There is no "nailed on" figure for how much more infectious the variant may be. Scientists, whose work is not yet public, have told me figures both much higher and much lower than 70%.
But there remain questions about whether it is any more infectious at all.
"The amount of evidence in the public domain is woefully inadequate to draw strong or firm opinions on whether the virus has truly increased transmission," said Prof Jonathan Ball, a virologist at the University of Nottingham.
How far has it spread?
It is thought the variant either emerged in a patient in the UK or has been imported from a country with a lower ability to monitor coronavirus mutations.
The variant can be found across the UK, except Northern Ireland, but it is heavily concentrated in London, the South East and eastern England. Cases elsewhere in the country do not seem to have taken off.
Data from Nextstrain, which has been monitoring the genetic codes of the viral samples around the world, suggest cases in Denmark and Australia have come from the UK. The Netherlands has also reported cases.
This Twitter post cannot be displayed in your browser. Please enable Javascript or try a different browser. View original content on Twitter The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Skip twitter post 2 by Dr Emma Hodcroft Allow Twitter content? This article contains content provided by Twitter. We ask for your permission before anything is loaded, as they may be using cookies and other technologies. You may want to read Twitter’s cookie policy, external and privacy policy, external before accepting. To view this content choose ‘accept and continue’. Accept and continue The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. End of twitter post 2 by Dr Emma Hodcroft
A similar variant that has emerged in South Africa shares some of the same mutations, but appears to be unrelated to this one.
Has this happened before?
Yes.
The virus that was first detected in Wuhan, China, is not the same one you will find in most corners of the world.
The D614G mutation emerged in Europe in February and became the globally dominant form of the virus.
Another, called A222V, spread across Europe and was linked to people's summer holidays in Spain.
What do we know about the new mutations?
An initial analysis of the new variant has been published and identifies 17 potentially important alterations.
There have been changes to the spike protein - this is the key the virus uses to unlock the doorway to our body's cells.
One mutation called N501Y alters the most important part of the spike, known as the "receptor-binding domain".
This is where the spike makes first contact with the surface of our body's cells. Any changes that make it easier for the virus to get inside are likely to give it an edge.
"It looks and smells like an important adaptation," said Prof Loman.
The other mutation - a H69/V70 deletion, in which a small part of the spike is removed - has emerged several times before, including famously in infected mink.
Work by Prof Ravi Gupta at the University of Cambridge has suggested this mutation increases infectivity two-fold in lab experiments.
Studies by the same group suggest the deletion makes antibodies from the blood of survivors less effective at attacking the virus.
Prof Gupta told me: "It is rapidly increasing, that's what's worried government, we are worried, most scientists are worried."
Where has it come from?
The variant is unusually highly mutated.
The most likely explanation is the variant has emerged in a patient with a weakened immune system that was unable to beat the virus.
Instead their body became a breeding ground for the virus to mutate.
Does it make the infection more deadly?
There is no evidence to suggest that it does, although this will need to be monitored.
However, just increasing transmission would be enough to cause problems for hospitals.
If the new variant means more people are infected more quickly, that would in turn lead to more people needing hospital treatment.
Will the vaccines work against the new variant?
Almost certainly yes, or at least for now.
All three leading vaccines develop an immune response against the existing spike, which is why the question comes up.
Vaccines train the immune system to attack several different parts of the virus, so even though part of the spike has mutated, the vaccines should still work.
"But if we let it add more mutations, then you start worrying," said Prof Gupta.
"This virus is potentially on a pathway for vaccine escape, it has taken the first couple of steps towards that."
Vaccine escape happens when the virus changes so it dodges the full effect of the vaccine and continues to infect people.
This may be the most concerning element of what is happening with the virus.
This variant is just the latest to show the virus is continuing to adapt as it infects more and more of us.
A presentation by Prof David Robertson, from the University of Glasgow on Friday, concluded: "The virus will probably be able to generate vaccine escape mutants."
That would put us in a position similar to flu, where the vaccines need to be regularly updated. Fortunately the vaccines we have are very easy to tweak.


bbc--2020-12-20--US cyber-attack: Around 50 firms 'genuinely impacted' by massive breach

It started with a `` dry run '' in October 2019 when `` innocuous code '' was changed .
`` @ @ @ @ @ the operators behind this attack did put malicious code into the supply chain , '' @ @ @ @ @ it in there and that is the backdoor that impacted everybody '' .

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bbc--2020-12-20--Covid: Nations impose UK travel bans over new variant

If you are reading this page and ca n't see the form you will need to visit the mobile version @ @ @ @ @ submit your question or comment or you can email us at HaveYourSay @ bbc.co.uk .
@ @ @ @ @ age and location with any submission .


bbc--2020-12-21--European regulator says Boeing's 737 Max is safe

In order to return to service , existing planes will now have to be equipped with new computer software , @ @ @ @ @ to their wiring and cockpit instrumentation .

"We will perform our own safety assessment, which is going to be much more comprehensive than it used to be", he says.


bbc--2020-12-20--Germany and Finland bring home women from Islamic State camps

The Finnish government estimates that more than 9,000 foreign women and children , two-thirds of them children , are still @ @ @ @ @ and Roj camps in north-eastern Syria .
Of those , about 600 children and 300 @ @ @ @ @

The Finnish government estimates that more than 9,000 foreign women and children, two-thirds of them children, are still being held in the al-Hol and Roj camps in north-eastern Syria. Of those, about 600 children and 300 women are EU citizens.


bbc--2020-12-21--Destroying the frontline drug

Destroying the frontline drug

A massive seizure of the drug Captagon in Italy has revealed the scale of illegal drug production in Syria .
@ @ @ @ @ ever seized , with a street value of more than $ 1bn ( £900m ) @ @ @ @ @ drug raids across the Middle East , in what appears to be a coordinated effort @ @ @ @ @ likely run by the Syrian regime and its allies .
The amphetamine , Captagon is @ @ @ @ @ East but is also taken by fighters who say it gives them a feeling of @ @ @ @ @ The BBC 's Middle East correspondent Quentin Sommerville gained exclusive access to the drugs ' @ @ @ @ @ Produced and edited by Fabian Chaundy and Julian Miglierini

A massive seizure of the drug Captagon in Italy has revealed the scale of illegal drug production in Syria.
It is the largest haul ever seized, with a street value of more than $1bn (£900m) and was followed by smaller drug raids across the Middle East, in what appears to be a co-ordinated effort against the lucrative narcotics trade likely run by the Syrian regime and its allies.
Both the Syrian regime and Lebanese militia Hezbollah have denied involvement in the drugs trade.
The amphetamine, Captagon is used recreationally across the Middle East but is also taken by fighters who say it gives them a feeling of invincibility on the frontlines.
The BBC's Middle East correspondent Quentin Sommerville gained exclusive access to the drugs' journey to an incinerator.
Produced and edited by Fabian Chaundy and Julian Miglierini


bbc--2020-12-20--Brexit: No trade deal unless 'substantial shift' from EU, UK says

`` We respect the sovereignty of the UK and we expect the same .
Both the EU and Britain must @ @ @ @ @ their own laws and control their own waters .
And we should both be able @ @ @ @ @ are at stake . ''


bbc--2020-12-20--Miss France runner-up April Benayoum targeted by anti-Semitic tweets

`` It is sad to witness such behaviour in 2020 , '' said Ms Benayoum , who represented the south-eastern @ @ @ @ @ contest .
`` I obviously condemn these comments , but it does not affect me @ @ @ @

"It is sad to witness such behaviour in 2020," said Ms Benayoum, who represented the south-eastern region of Provence in the contest. "I obviously condemn these comments, but it does not affect me at all."


bbc--2020-12-21--UK port halts traffic to France over virus fears

It is thought to have mutated in a way to increase the ability of the virus to infect cells , @ @ @ @ @ to more deadly than other variants .

"The retailers will absolutely be assessing their inbound flows this morning and understanding whether or not those flows are on their way into the retail distribution centres around the country and I'm sure there will be further reassurance given today that those things are in control."


bbc--2020-12-20--Nigeria kidnapping: Mahuta children rescued after gun battle

Most kidnappings by `` bandits '' are done for ransom .
In the past some leaders of bandit groups , @ @ @ @ @ attacks on farming communities , have openly met governors and other state authorities to negotiate @ @ @ @ @

Most kidnappings by "bandits" are done for ransom. In the past some leaders of bandit groups, who engage in kidnapping and attacks on farming communities, have openly met governors and other state authorities to negotiate, our reporter adds.


bbc--2020-12-20--François Bozizé: CAR former president denies 'attempted coup'

The CAR is one of Africa 's poorest and most unstable countries , even though it is rich in resources @ @ @ @ @ The UN estimates that half of the population are dependent on humanitarian assistance and up @ @ @ @ @ displaced .

The CAR is one of Africa's poorest and most unstable countries, even though it is rich in resources like diamonds and uranium. The UN estimates that half of the population are dependent on humanitarian assistance and up to a fifth have been displaced.


bbc--2020-12-21--Covid: The black cab tour of London’s Christmas lights

When London went into lockdown , black taxi driver Dale Forwood , 54 , did n't have many customers .
@ @ @ @ @ she has been concerned about her livelihood , but managed to keep working with her @ @ @ @ @ driver .
This December she has started doing Christmas light tours of the capital .

When London went into lockdown, black taxi driver Dale Forwood, 54, didn't have many customers.
Like many cab drivers, she has been concerned about her livelihood, but managed to keep working with her vehicle as a supermarket delivery driver.
This December she has started doing Christmas light tours of the capital.
Video by Jamie Moreland


bbc--2020-12-21--The Belgian 'hero' who invaded UK fishing waters

The British government had no desire to test in public the validity of the Bruges Charter and the legal power @ @ @ @ @ Kings and Queens in open court .
To Victor and to the fishing crews of @ @ @ @ @ admission that the fishing privileges granted by a grateful Crown around the time that Sir @ @ @ @ @ Paul 's Cathedral remained valid around the time the Beatles were beginning to top the @ @ @ @ @ the UK , it seems , cared to contradict him .

The British government had no desire to test in public the validity of the Bruges Charter and the legal power of personal decrees made by Kings and Queens in open court. To Victor and to the fishing crews of Bruges that was a tacit admission that the fishing privileges granted by a grateful Crown around the time that Sir Christopher Wren was designing St Paul's Cathedral remained valid around the time the Beatles were beginning to top the charts. And no-one in the UK, it seems, cared to contradict him.


bbc--2020-12-21--'Yes, people have Zoom fatigue but it's not our fault'

Prior to the pandemic the company was focused on its long-term growth , so it already had 19 such centres @ @ @ @ @ was more than it needed for user numbers at that point .
In addition , @ @ @ @ @ contracts in place to allow it to use `` tens of thousands of other servers @ @ @ @ @ ] '' .

Prior to the pandemic the company was focused on its long-term growth, so it already had 19 such centres that it owned. This was more than it needed for user numbers at that point. In addition, Ms Bawa says it had contracts in place to allow it to use "tens of thousands of other servers in five hours [notice]".


bbc--2020-12-21--How should you talk to friends and relatives who believe conspiracy theories?

`` It is extremely important to remain calm at all times , '' she says .
`` Whoever you 're @ @ @ @ @ as passionate as you are about your own beliefs and will defend them to the @ @ @

"It is extremely important to remain calm at all times," she says. "Whoever you're talking to is often just as passionate as you are about your own beliefs and will defend them to the grave."


bbc--2020-12-21--Sudan-Israel deal fuels migrants' fears

Sudan-Israel deal fuels migrants' fears

But the temporary refuge granted to those who make it to Israel may be threatened by the deal - negotiated @ @ @ @ @ 's admiration - to normalise relations between Israel and Sudan , something most Arab nations @ @ @ @ @ the Palestinian dispute was settled .

But the temporary refuge granted to those who make it to Israel may be threatened by the deal - negotiated by US President Donald Trump's administration - to normalise relations between Israel and Sudan, something most Arab nations said would happen only after the Palestinian dispute was settled.


bbc--2020-12-21--K2: 'Savage Mountain' beckons for unprecedented winter climb

So unforgiving are the conditions on K2 , part of the Karakoram Range that straddles the Pakistan-China border , that @ @ @ @ @ to as The Savage Mountain .
It was a name that stuck after US mountaineer @ @ @ @ @ own attempt in 1953 : `` It is a savage mountain that tries to kill @ @ @

So unforgiving are the conditions on K2, part of the Karakoram Range that straddles the Pakistan-China border, that it has long been referred to as The Savage Mountain. It was a name that stuck after US mountaineer George Bell said of his own attempt in 1953: "It is a savage mountain that tries to kill you."