After a night off for all eight teams in the Central Division on Wednesday, they'll all return to action on Thursday.

Perhaps more tantalizingly, the schedule has blessed us with a showdown among the four clubs currently in playoff position. Both contests begin at 7 p.m. ET, so you'll want to be deploying two screens minimum tonight.

The Nashville Predators -- as of a few weeks ago, seemingly one of the teams likely to be most active trading players away at the trade deadline -- travel to Raleigh, North Carolina, to take on the Carolina Hurricanes. The Canes have won all four previous games in the season series, but the Preds come in hot following their 7-2 dismantling of the Tampa Bay Lightning on Tuesday.

Speaking of the Lightning, they'll host their cross-state rival Florida Panthers at Amalie Arena tonight. This season series stands at 2-2, and they'll play again on Saturday.

As we enter the final stretch of the regular season, it's time to check in on all the playoff races -- along with the teams jockeying for position in the 2021 NHL draft lottery.

Note: Playoff chances are via Money Puck. Tragic numbers are courtesy of Damian Echevarrieta of the NHL.

East Division

Washington Capitals

Points: 60
Regulation wins: 23
Playoff position: E1
Games left: 13
Next game: vs. BUF (Apr. 15)
Playoff chances: 99.6%
Tragic number: N/A

New York Islanders

Points: 58
Regulation wins: 20
Playoff position: E2
Games left: 14
Next game: @ BOS (Apr. 15)
Playoff chances: 98.7%
Tragic number: N/A

Pittsburgh Penguins

Points: 56
Regulation wins: 20
Playoff position: E3
Games left: 14
Next game: vs. PHI (Apr. 15)
Playoff chances: 98.4%
Tragic number: N/A

Boston Bruins

Points: 50
Regulation wins: 15
Playoff position: E4
Games left: 16
Next game: vs. NYI (Apr. 15)
Playoff chances: 77.3%
Tragic number: N/A

New York Rangers

Points: 46
Regulation wins: 17
Playoff position: N/A
Games left: 14
Next game: vs. NJ (Apr. 15)
Playoff chances: 20%
Tragic number: 25

Philadelphia Flyers

Points: 44
Regulation wins: 13
Playoff position: N/A
Games left: 14
Next game: @ PIT (Apr. 15)
Playoff chances: 6.3%
Tragic number: 22

New Jersey Devils

Points: 34
Regulation wins: 11
Playoff position: N/A
Games left: 15
Next game: @ NYR (Apr. 15)
Playoff chances: 0%
Tragic number: 14

Buffalo Sabres

Points: 27
Regulation wins: 7
Playoff position: N/A
Games left: 14
Next game: @ WSH (Apr. 15)
Playoff chances: 0%
Tragic number: 5

Central Division

Carolina Hurricanes

Points: 58
Regulation wins: 19
Playoff position: C1
Games left: 15
Next game: vs. NSH (Apr. 15)
Playoff chances: 99.9%
Tragic number: N/A

Tampa Bay Lightning

Points: 58
Regulation wins: 24
Playoff position: C2
Games left: 14
Next game: vs. FLA (Apr. 15)
Playoff chances: 99.9%
Tragic number: N/A

Florida Panthers

Points: 58
Regulation wins: 19
Playoff position: C3
Games left: 13
Next game: @ TB (Apr. 15)
Playoff chances: 99.6%
Tragic number: N/A

Nashville Predators

Points: 49
Regulation wins: 16
Playoff position: C4
Games left: 12
Next game: @ CAR (Apr. 15)
Playoff chances: 62.1%
Tragic number: N/A

Chicago Blackhawks

Points: 45
Regulation wins: 13
Playoff position: N/A
Games left: 13
Next game: @ DET (Apr. 15)
Playoff chances: 9.4%
Tragic number: 22

Dallas Stars

Points: 42
Regulation wins: 13
Playoff position: N/A
Games left: 15
Next game: vs. CBJ (Apr. 15)
Playoff chances: 29.1%
Tragic number: 23

Columbus Blue Jackets

Points: 39
Regulation wins: 11
Playoff position: N/A
Games left: 12
Next game: @ DAL (Apr. 15)
Playoff chances: 0.1%
Tragic number: 14

Detroit Red Wings

Points: 36
Regulation wins: 13
Playoff position: N/A
Games left: 12
Next game: vs. CHI (Apr. 15)
Playoff chances: 0%
Tragic number: 11

North Division

Toronto Maple Leafs

Points: 60
Regulation wins: 22
Playoff position: N1
Games left: 13
Next game: vs. WPG (Apr. 15)
Playoff chances: 100%
Tragic number: N/A

Winnipeg Jets

Points: 55
Regulation wins: 20
Playoff position: N2
Games left: 13
Next game: vs. EDM (Apr. 17)
Playoff chances: 99.6%
Tragic number: N/A

Edmonton Oilers

Points: 52
Regulation wins: 23
Playoff position: N3
Games left: 14
Next game: @ VAN (Apr. 16)
Playoff chances: 96.4%
Tragic number: N/A

Montreal Canadiens

Points: 45
Regulation wins: 16
Playoff position: N4
Games left: 16
Next game: vs. CGY (Apr. 16)
Playoff chances: 80.9%
Tragic number: N/A

Calgary Flames

Points: 41
Regulation wins: 16
Playoff position: N/A
Games left: 13
Next game: @ MTL (Apr. 16)
Playoff chances: 19.6%
Tragic number: 22

Vancouver Canucks

Points: 35
Regulation wins: 11
Playoff position: N/A
Games left: 19
Next game: vs. EDM (Apr. 16)
Playoff chances: 3.5%
Tragic number: 28

Ottawa Senators

Points: 32
Regulation wins: 10
Playoff position: N/A
Games left: 12
Next game: @ MTL (Apr. 17)
Playoff chances: 0%
Tragic number: 11

West Division

Colorado Avalanche

Points: 64
Regulation wins: 27
Playoff position: W1
Games left: 13
Next game: vs. LA (Apr. 16)
Playoff chances: 100%
Tragic number: N/A

Vegas Golden Knights

Points: 60
Regulation wins: 23
Playoff position: W2
Games left: 14
Next game: @ ANA (Apr. 16)
Playoff chances: 100%
Tragic number: N/A

Minnesota Wild

Points: 53
Regulation wins: 20
Playoff position: W3
Games left: 15
Next game: vs. SJ (Apr. 16)
Playoff chances: 99.8%
Tragic number: N/A

St. Louis Blues

Points: 44
Regulation wins: 13
Playoff position: W4
Games left: 14
Next game: @ ARI (Apr. 17)
Playoff chances: 41.6%
Tragic number: N/A

Arizona Coyotes

Points: 43
Regulation wins: 15
Playoff position: N/A
Games left: 12
Next game: vs. STL (Apr. 17)
Playoff chances: 33%
Tragic number: 24

San Jose Sharks

Points: 40
Regulation wins: 12
Playoff position: N/A
Games left: 14
Next game: @ MIN (Apr. 16)
Playoff chances: 17.1%
Tragic number: 24

Los Angeles Kings

Points: 38
Regulation wins: 14
Playoff position: N/A
Games left: 14
Next game: @ COL (Apr. 16)
Playoff chances: 8.1%
Tragic number: 23

Anaheim Ducks

Points: 35
Regulation wins: 9
Playoff position: N/A
Games left: 12
Next game: vs. VGS (Apr. 16)
Playoff chances: 0.4%
Tragic number: 15

Race for the No. 1 pick

The NHL uses a draft lottery to determine the order at the top of the first round, so the team that finishes in last place is not guaranteed the No. 1 selection. New for 2021, a team may move up a maximum of 10 spots if it wins the lottery, so only 11 teams are eligible for the draw for the No. 1 pick. Full details on the process can be found here.

1. Buffalo Sabres

Points: 27
Regulation wins: 7

2. Ottawa Senators

Points: 32
Regulation wins: 10

3. New Jersey Devils

Points: 34
Regulation wins: 11

4. Anaheim Ducks

Points: 35
Regulation wins: 9

5. Vancouver Canucks

Points: 35
Regulation wins: 11

6. Detroit Red Wings

Points: 36
Regulation wins: 13

7. Los Angeles Kings

Points: 38
Regulation wins: 14

8. Columbus Blue Jackets

Points: 39
Regulation wins: 11

9. San Jose Sharks

Points: 40
Regulation wins: 12

10. Calgary Flames

Points: 41
Regulation wins: 16

11. Dallas Stars

Points: 42
Regulation wins: 13

12. Arizona Coyotes

Points: 43
Regulation wins: 15

13. Philadelphia Flyers

Points: 44
Regulation wins: 13

14. Chicago Blackhawks

Points: 45
Regulation wins: 13

15. New York Rangers

Points: 46
Regulation wins: 17

RB Leipzig coach Julian Nagelsmann has rejected speculation that he has held talks with Bayern Munich, but did not rule out taking over at the club in the future.

Germany and Bayern legend Lothar Matthaus, now a TV analyst, claimed Nagelsmann is the top candidate to replace Hansi Flick, should he leave in order to take over the Germany national team role in the summer, and contact had already been made.

- Stream ESPN FC Daily on ESPN+ (U.S. only)

"There have been no talks and we are currently in no talks," Nagelsmann told a news conference on Wednesday ahead of Leipzig's Bundesliga match against Hoffenheim.

"The country needs new sources. I don't know where he got his info from.

"It's not like they [Nagelmann's agents] are acting autocratically. They do things I ask them to. And thus, there were no talks."

Having joined Leipzig from Hoffenheim in 2019, Nagelsmann reached the Champions League semifinal last season and they are second in the Bundesliga this season.

Despite saying there had been no talks, the 33-year-old did not entirely rule out joining Bayern at the end of the season.

"There are always developments in football you can't foresee," he added.

Following Bayern's exit from the Champions League on Tuesday, Bayern coach Flick admitted for the first time he is thinking about his future which could see him take over the Germany job once Joachim Low leaves his post after the European Championship.

"I must talk those things through with my family," Flick said. "The family has always supported me in the past and will do so in the future. It's a good feeling. And it would not matter to them if I were at the DFB [the German Football Association] and had a different rhythm."

Flick worked as Low's assistant from 2006 to 2014. He took over as Bayern's head coach after the sacking of Niko Kovac in November 2019.

He went on to win the sextuple in his first season and is on course for a title defence in Bundesliga.

A row between him and sporting executive Hasan Salihamidzic over the club's transfer philosophy has added fuel to rumours of his possible return to the national team.

Grimsby Town forward Stefan Payne could play again this season after receiving only a three-match suspension from the English Football Association for head-butting his teammate during Saturday's League Two defeat against Bradford City.

The 29-year-old was sent off during the half-time interval by referee James Bell following an argument and confrontation with Filipe Morais, which resulted in Payne striking his teammate with his head.

- Stream ESPN FC Daily on ESPN+ (U.S. only)

But despite the unusual nature of the incident, and condemnation of Payne's actions by Grimsby manager Paul Hurst, the FA disciplinary unit has chosen not to take further action against the player after receiving referee Bell's report.

Former Liverpool forward Luis Suarez was given a 10-game suspension in April 2013 for biting Chelsea defender Branislav Ivanovic after an independent regulatory commission upheld the FA's claim that a three-match ban for violent conduct was insufficient.

In March 2020, Burton Albion goalkeeper Kieran O'Hara was given a six-game suspension by the FA after being found guilty of a charge of violent behaviour during a League One fixture against Lincoln City last season.

Grimsby, who are bottom of League Two and facing relegation to the National League, will be without Payne for the forthcoming games against Bolton, Morecambe and Oldham, but the player could return for the trip to Exeter on April 27.

Payne's future at the club remains in doubt, however, with manager Hurst saying after the Bradford defeat that he may not select him to play for the team again.

"The club will be taking action," Hurst said. "That will remain private, but it won't be swept under the carpet. I have got some thinking to do before I decide whether he plays again for the club before the end of the season."

Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur announced a partnership with a United Kingdom paint supplier on Thursday, before the company appeared to mock Jose Mourinho's team on Twitter.

In a statement, Spurs said the Dulux mascot -- an Old English Sheepdog -- was given a tour of the club's stadium and training ground.

- Stream ESPN FC Daily on ESPN+ (U.S. only)

However, after Spurs posted a statement about the partnership on Twitter, the company took a number of shots at Mourinho's team.

"Can the dog play at centre-back?" one fan tweeted.

"He might do a better job Chris," the company tweeted back with a laughing emoji.

It's the perfect match - Dulux has become the first ever Official Paint Supplier to football giant Tottenham Hotspur!

To kick things off the Dulux Dog took a tour of the stadium to inspect the decorating work that's underway...#Dulux #THFC #COYS pic.twitter.com/qI6HbgZP2U

— Dulux UK | Colour & Inspiration (@duluxuk) April 15, 2021

Another fan asked about the possibility of getting the Tottenham trophy cabinet painted.

The company replied with a picture of a trophy cabinet with Spurs' logos photoshopped on and the caption: "For Sale, unused trophy cabinet."

The tweets were then deleted by Dulux.

Announcing the partnership, Spurs had said: "We are delighted to announce Dulux, the nation's number one paint brand, as our first ever Official Paint Supplier.

"The relationship will see us benefit from the unrivalled expertise in paint and colour that Dulux provides."

The Champions League semifinals are set with Real Madrid facing off with Chelsea and Manchester City set to clash with Paris Saint-Germain. There is plenty to break down from Real's defeat of Liverpool, Chelsea overcoming FC Porto, Man City beating Borussia Dortmund, and PSG eliminating holders Bayern Munich. ESPN's Rob Dawson, Sid Lowe and Derek Rae look back at the action and preview the next stage.

Who wins it all: Manchester City, PSG, Real Madrid, or Chelsea?

Dawson: It's hard to look past Manchester City. They've won 28 of their last 30 games in all competitions and one of those defeats was against Leeds United when Pep Guardiola rotated this squad heavily. Defensively they look far more solid than they have done in previous seasons and have continued to score goals even without the use of a recognised striker. Crucially, they didn't panic against Borussia Dortmund. There were times during previous Champions League knockout exits to AS Monaco, Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur and Lyon when they seemed to panic but there appeared to be more composure at the Signal Iduna Stadium on Wednesday night, even after going a goal down. It's a good sign ahead of the semifinal with PSG and City have every reason to believe they can go on and win it.

Lowe: Real Madrid. Of the four teams in the semifinals, most would agree that they are favourites to get through (and they will be happy that they didn't have to meet PSG, Bayern or City on route, all of whom may be better than them). And in a European Cup final: well, it's Real Madrid and a European Cup final. For a lot of this season the truth is that Madrid haven't been very good but they still have a midfield trio unlike anyone else (Luka Modric, Toni Kroos and Casemiro), plus Fede Valverde, and a goalkeeper and a striker of the highest level in Thibaut Courtois and Karim Benzema. There's seriousness about Madrid that brings the defensive solidity they lacked earlier in the season. (Here's a question: do they defend better without Sergio Ramos?) And above all there's just something about them. They step up when it really matters.

Rae: I see this as Manchester City's Champions League to lose now. They are the most complete team left in the competition and there is a fierce determination to atone for the mishaps of recent knockout stages. Their quality really told when it mattered against Dortmund and the whole story was capped off by Phil Foden's moment of brilliance to seal it. But having said all that they're really going to have to earn it against PSG. We saw in the first leg against Bayern how much individual quality in their ranks and I can't imagine the PSG-City semifinal being a runaway in either direction. PSG's lethal counter attacks from Kylian Mbappe and Co. will be a real test for Ruben Dias and John Stones. Maybe surprisingly to some I make Chelsea favourites against Real Madrid. I'm not reading anything into their second-leg defeat against Porto as the object of the exercise was to progress after a competent first-leg performance and Thomas Tuchel's men still did that with relative ease. I feel they're better equipped to stifle a classy midfield and attack in a way that Liverpool couldn't in their quarterfinal first leg. Plus Chelsea might have the best, deepest bench of any of the teams left.

Biggest "shock" in the quarterfinals?

Rae: That Dortmund coach Edin Terzic took the bold step of naming Ansgar Knauff in the starting XI both times against City. Now that sounds strange in the light of the 19-year-old winger's match-winning contribution against VfB Stuttgart but if we were to transport ourselves back in time to the start of last week, it was a decision that raised eyebrows. Giving Knauff his first start at the Etihad in the heat of Champions League quarterfinal battle took guts. Knauff had a rough opening and looked slightly out of place but eventually found his game feet. As Terzic said the other day, the youngster is no longer an occasional visitor to the Dortmund squad. We're going to be seeing a lot more of this fast, talented player and the experience will have served him well. It's just a pity for Dortmund that qualifying for next year's Champions League appears a task too great, given the seven-point chasm between them and fourth placed Eintracht Frankfurt.

- Stream ESPN FC Daily on ESPN+ (U.S. only)
- ESPN+ viewer's guide: Bundesliga, Serie A, MLS, FA Cup and more

Dawson: The Champions League quarterfinals is the time for managers to pick their strongest teams and it was telling that Raheem Sterling played just two minutes of Manchester City's tie with Dortmund. Sterling has been a key part of the City team which has dominated English football since Pep Guardiola's arrival in 2016 but at the business end of the season, the England winger had found himself on the sidelines. Guardiola has explained that Riyad Mahrez and Phil Foden are in better form and, with both scoring in the 2-1 win over Dortmund on Wednesday, Sterling may find it tough to win back his place before the semifinal with PSG.

Lowe: There were no shocks, not really. Not even the surprises are huge surprises: Bayern going out; Liverpool lacking the subtlety to get past a deep defence and Mohamed Salah not taking the chance when it came to him; Madrid defending deep and catching on the break; Porto giving Chelsea problems, a lot of them, but ultimately coming up short. Even Vinicius Jr. scoring two in the first leg isn't that much of a shock -- however much it was treated in Spain as a grand revelation and however much his finishing has been an object of fun. He is different, a player that shakes games up, makes things happen and excites (while also being exasperating). That said, he might be the "surprise" of the round. Or maybe the biggest surprise is Dortmund striker Erling Haaland not scoring?

Who was unluckier in the quarterfinal: Liverpool, Dortmund or Bayern?

Lowe: Bayern were. On one level this is a simple conclusion: they were the only team to go out on away goals. But there's more: just count the shots against PSG. Look at the chances they missed in the first leg, the way they actually played -- better than anyone else in the quarterfinals. Even in the second leg when PSG were probably the better side making the chances, they were so close to going through. And then look at the absence of Robert Lewandowski and ask yourself: does this happen if he doesn't get injured playing for Poland against Andorra?

Dawson: Borussia Dortmund can count themselves very unlucky not to be in the last four. Despite struggling in the Bundesliga, they matched City for much of the 180 minutes and if Jude Bellingham's perfectly legitimate goal in the first leg had not been inexplicably ruled out then the outcome might have been different. The penalty awarded against Emre Can in the second leg was not as controversial but there was still plenty of debate about whether it should have been given. In the end, City were just about the better team and deserved to go through but the margins were very fine and unfortunately for Dortmund they were on the wrong side. On top of that, they were missing one of their best players, Jadon Sancho, because of injury. Dortmund didn't have any luck at all.

Rae: I'm half tempted to say Dortmund due to Bellingham's wrongly disallowed goal in Manchester and a penalty award against them that was by no means clear cut in the return. But I have to say Bayern were the unluckiest of all the teams in the quarterfinals. First, they lost Lewandowski to injury at the worst possible time in the lead up to the initial PSG game. Then the first leg was a tale of their walking wounded as both Niklas Sule and Leon Goretzka had to go off injured. They still played superbly in an attacking sense and kudos to the unfairly maligned Eric-Maxim Choupo-Moting who for me was the best Bayern player on the pitch in the home leg. Choupo-Moting went on to score the only goal in the return only to see Germany's champions bow out on away goals. Bayern are left to rue the defensive mistakes made in Munich where the damage was done. They were always chasing after that, but rarely has a side played so well over quarterfinal legs yet gone out. A cruel exit.

Rajasthan Royals will head into Thursday's encounter against Delhi Capitals with a Ben Stokes-sized void to fill after the allrounder was ruled out of the tournament due to a finger injury. Liam Livingstone, who had a good run at BBL a few months ago, could be Stokes' possible replacement. Having lost the opener against the Royal Challengers Bangalore by 4 runs in a chase of 222, the new captain Sanju Samson will look to take his team past the finish line at the Wankhede Stadium.

For the Capitals, a delay in getting the result of his Covid-19 test has ruled key pacer Anrich Nortje out of the match in Mumbai. However, Nortje's South African partner Kagiso Rabada has joined the team after returning a negative test. The Capitals will be high on confidence having beaten the Chennai Super Kings comfortably in their first game despite missing their fast-bowling pair as well as allrounder Axar Patel, who is still recovering from Covid-19.

Rajasthan Royals vs Delhi Capitals is available to view in India on Disney+ Hotstar, Jio TV and Airtel TV.

When does the RR vs DC live streaming start?

The RR vs DC live streaming will start at 7:00 PM India Time April 15, 2021.

Where is the RR vs DC match being played?

The RR vs DC match will be played at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.

On which TV channels will RR vs DC live coverage be available?

In India, Star Sports 1 and 1HD, Star Sports Select 1 and 1HD and SS1 Hindi and 1 Hindi HD will telecast the match live.

Where can one find RR vs DC live score and commentary online?

The fastest and most comprehensive live score and details will be available here: RR vs DC live score.

What are the likely playing XIs for today's RR vs DC game?

Rajasthan Royals: 1 Jos Buttler, 2 Manan Vohra, 3 Sanju Samson (capt & wk), 4 Liam Livingstone, 5 Shivam Dube, 6 Riyan Parag, 7 Chris Morris, 8 Rahul Tewatia, 9 Shreyas Gopal, 10 Chetan Sakariya, 11 Andrew Tye/Mustafizur Rahman

Delhi Capitals: 1 Prithvi Shaw, 2 Shikhar Dhawan, 3 Ajinkya Rahane, 4 Rishabh Pant (capt & wk), 5 Marcus Stoinis, 6 Shimron Hetmyer, 7 Chris Woakes, 8 R Ashwin, 9 Tom Curran, 10 Amit Mishra, 11 Avesh Khan

Who are the captains for today's RR vs DC game?

The captains for today's game will be Sanju Samson (RR) and Rishabh Pant (DC).

Who are the umpires for RR vs DC game?

The on-field umpires for today's game will be Anil Chaudhary and S Ravi. The third umpire will be Bruce Oxenford.

Who will be the match referee for RR vs DC game?

The match referee for today's game will be Shakti Singh.

Any push to increase the amount of Test cricket in the women's game would need to be balanced against the wider development of the sport, according to Australia selector and female high-performance manager Shawn Flegler.

Only Australia Women and England Women have played Test cricket in the last six years (three as part of the Ashes), with South Africa and India the other nations to have been part of the longest format since the Netherlands played in 2007.

India will return to the Test arena when they face England in Bristol later this year and there will be another Ashes match in early 2022 as part of the multi-format series. But currently, it seems unlikely there will be any expansion as cricket tries to emerge from the Covid-19 pandemic which has been much more damaging to the women's game.

"No doubt, the players want to play Test cricket and, that's not in question at all, it's a bigger picture that we need to keep in mind a few different factors," Flegler said on the day the latest batch of CA contracts were confirmed.

"The global strategy has been based on T20 cricket and that's a really important part to keep in mind. Whilst the top sides have probably got the depth and the dollars to invest in playing more Test cricket, it's really important we do keep in mind the rest of the world.

"Thailand played in the T20 World Cup (last February), (but) can't see them playing Test cricket in the very near future. What we've seen during Covid is the drop off in the amount of international cricket that has been played in the women's game. We want to be really conscious of that and ensure we are supporting the growth of the women's game all around the world and not just the top two or three who can afford to be playing more Test cricket."

The challenges facing the women's game doesn't include just the ability to put on more Test matches, but also the lack of multi-day cricket at domestic or development level to help preparation.

"From a development point of view, I'm sure it could help, but you also need to factor in what's the underlying programs for that, do we have the resources and facilities and support to do that," Flegler said. "It is really hard to get up to play one-off Tests for players when you don't play multi-day cricket.

"Women's cricket is in this really great stage where we've seen great growth but there are decisions that need to be made about whether we invest more in multi-day cricket or we hold firm and make sure we are investing across the global game, ensuring we have a really strong competition that is not just among the first few teams."

While Australia are one of the few teams that will play all formats over the next year, their major focus is the 50-over game with sights set on the World Cup in New Zealand, although there is also half an eye on the 2022 Commonwealth Games where women's T20 will feature in Birmingham.

"It is really hard to get up to play one-off Tests for players when you don't play multi-day cricket."

Australia selector and female high-performance manager Shawn Flegler

Flegler said it could be that the proposed Australia-Australia A series being earmarked for this August ahead of the 2021-22 season, which is also set to include a visit by India in September before the WBBL, could be pushed back to after the World Cup to be used as more focused preparation for the Games.

"It all depends on the final international schedule and how that gets locked in," he said. "We need to balance those series and make sure players are getting into their state programs as well leading into the international summer.

"If we can, we'll try and get that before the international season kicks off again. If we can't do it, then we'll look to do it post season and use it as part of our preparation for the Commonwealth Games as well. I think it's a really good concept and it's a great opportunity to do it now while we have that depth. It'll be a great few games to play."

We are now two weeks into the 2021 MLB season and one thing is already becoming very clear: It's the Los Angeles Dodgers and then everyone else so far.

L.A. is once again a unanimous No. 1 in our Week 2 MLB Power Rankings -- but then things start to get interesting with movement throughout our top 10, starting at the No. 2 spot.

Do our voters favor the San Diego Padres over the New York Yankees even with Fernando Tatis Jr. on the injured list? Which American League teams are hot on that pair's heels? And what did our voters make of hot starts by the Cincinnati Reds, Boston Red Sox and Los Angeles Angels?

And at the bottom of our rankings, has anyone played poorly enough to move the Pittsburgh Pirates out of No. 30?

Here is what our expert panel decided based on what we've seen. We also asked ESPN MLB experts David Schoenfield, Bradford Doolittle, Joon Lee, Jesse Rogers and Alden Gonzalez to weigh in with one Week 2 observation for all 30 teams.

Previous rankings: Week 1 | Opening Day

1. Los Angeles Dodgers

Record: 10-2
Previous ranking: 1

Trevor Bauer has been as advertised -- with a 2.70 ERA, 29 strikeouts and five walks in his first 20 innings -- and so have the Dodgers as a whole. They swept the Nationals over the weekend without both Mookie Betts and Cody Bellinger in their lineup, a testament to their unmatched depth. When Betts returned earlier this week, he quipped: "We don't really need me." -- Gonzalez

2. San Diego Padres

Record: 8-5
Previous ranking: 3

The Padres have 10 pitchers on the injured list, and yet they lead the majors in ERA. The face of their franchise, Fernando Tatis Jr., is recovering from a shoulder subluxation, but Jake Cronenworth is emerging as a star in his absence. Perhaps the most positive sign for the Padres (if one can be gleaned this early): As of Wednesday morning, Eric Hosmer and Wil Myers were batting a combined .341/.438/.634 in 96 plate appearances. -- Gonzalez

3. New York Yankees

Record: 5-7
Previous ranking: 2

The success of the Yankees will likely rest on whether their rotation can step up. Jameson Taillon struggled in his second outing, going just 3⅔ innings, allowing five runs on eight hits and striking out three. Taillon, who is returning from his second Tommy John surgery, will need to show more for the Bronx Bombers to be a serious World Series contender. New York will also need more from Corey Kluber, who went just 2⅓ innings in his second start, allowing five runs, three earned. -- Lee

4. Houston Astros

Record: 6-6
Previous ranking: 5

When you're in the middle of April, it's amazing how quickly a fast start can turn into a shaky one. The Astros rolled over the A's to begin the season, but have gradually been sliding back to .500, a slump that was low-lighted by getting tattooed at home in back-to-back games against former manager AJ Hinch and the rebuilding Tigers. Zack Greinke hasn't been great so far and the Houston debut for Jake Odorizzi did not go well. While the Astros still have a cadre of young power arms, the veterans on the staff -- Greinke, Odorizzi and Lance McCullers Jr. -- need to be a source of consistent innings, in both quantity and quality. Otherwise, Dusty Baker will be scrambling to keep things covered. -- Doolittle

5. Minnesota Twins

Record: 5-7
Previous ranking: 4

At times, the Twins have looked like they may have their strongest team yet during their current run of success. However, there is a disconnect between their record and their underlying indicators that mostly can be traced to a 1-3 start in one-run games. Bad luck? Maybe. But there is no doubt the Twins' offseason signing of high-leverage reliever Alex Colome has yet to pay dividends. Colome has blown two of his four save opportunities and has been tagged for seven runs (four earned) over his first 5⅓ innings. Over the first couple of weeks, Colome ranks dead last among MLB relievers in wins probability added (minus-0.9). -- Doolittle

6. Atlanta Braves

Record: 4-8
Previous ranking: 7

OK, they lost Sunday night on a bad call at home plate. Those things even out over a season ... unless they don't. Ronald Acuna Jr. continues to be one-man highlight reel. Just in the past few days we saw him beat out a routine grounder for a single, triple to right field and then score on a sac fly to second base. Most importantly, he has cut down on his strikeout rate and if that holds he's going to hit a lot higher than .250 this season. -- Schoenfield

7. Chicago White Sox

Record: 6-6
Previous ranking: 12

While injuries to Eloy Jimenez and Tim Anderson certainly have not helped Chicago's bid to build early momentum, some of Hall of Fame manager Tony La Russa's choices have raised eyebrows. The most curious has been the odd usage of rookie Andrew Vaughn, who seemed poised to inherit Jimenez's everyday spot in left field until the slugger returns. Instead, Vaughn has played less than half the time and La Russa has hidden him against most righties, instead opting for offensive ciphers like Nick Williams, Leury Garcia and Billy Hamilton. -- Doolittle

8. Los Angeles Angels

Record: 7-5
Previous ranking: 10

While the Angels wait on Shohei Ohtani's blister to heal enough for him to return to pitching, they're enjoying his majestic power and blazing speed on offense. Through his first 11 games, Ohtani batted .364/.391.795 with four home runs and two triples, ranking in the top 2% of the league in barrel percentage. On Monday, he lined a 119 mph double. On Tuesday, he beat out a routine grounder by running 29.5 feet per second (30 feet per second is considered elite). -- Gonzalez

9. New York Mets

Record: 5-3
Previous ranking: 6

Jacob deGrom, Marcus Stroman and Taijuan Walker are off to a great start through two outings apiece with a 1.24 ERA and just two home runs allowed over 36.1 innings. The Mets haven't needed a fifth starter yet, with Joey Lucchesi getting his first opportunity on Friday. The bats are struggling, but a positive early sign: Entering Wednesday the Mets are second in the majors in walk rate. This team will get on base and score runs. -- Schoenfield

10. Tampa Bay Rays

Record: 5-7
Previous ranking: 8

The defending American League champions stumbled out of the gate, with questions rising about the rotation. Starter Ryan Yarbrough has struggled, posting a 6.48 ERA through three starts. Rich Hill, Michael Wacha and Chris Archer -- who just landed on the injured list with forearm tightness -- will need to step up to fill the gaps left behind by the departures of Blake Snell and Charlie Morton. -- Lee

11. Toronto Blue Jays

Record: 6-6
Previous ranking: 9

While Toronto dropped series to the Rangers and Angels, the Jays still possess a positive run differential, which suggests the team is outperforming its win-loss record in the early part of the season. One of the biggest bright spots has been Hyun-Jin Ryu, who has posted a 1.89 ERA in three starts, allowing no runs in 6⅔ innings and striking out seven against the Yankees in his last start. -- Lee

12. Boston Red Sox

Record: 9-3
Previous ranking: 21

Starting the season by getting swept certainly didn't get Boston off to a strong start, but a hot streak by J.D. Martinez ignited the offense. Whether or not this team makes it to the postseason will be dependent on the rotation, which will need season-long strong performances from pitchers like Garrett Richards, who bounced back after an abysmal first start to go five innings, allowing two runs against the Orioles. -- Lee

13. Cincinnati Reds

Record: 7-5
Previous ranking: 19

The Reds took their show on the road after a successful homestand to open the season and have maintained their slim lead in the NL Central. The offense came back to earth a little, but they still possess the highest team OPS in baseball. Newcomer Tyler Naquin continues to be the surprise driving force at the plate. -- Rogers

14. Philadelphia Phillies

Record: 6-6
Previous ranking: 11

Rotation? Pretty good so far. Bullpen? Doing its job. Offense? Off to a sluggish start. J.T. Realmuto, Rhys Hoskins, Jean Segura and Didi Gregorius had combined for five walks and 44 strikeouts through Tuesday's doubleheader loss to the Mets, leading to subpar on-base and home run numbers so far. -- Schoenfield

15. Milwaukee Brewers

Record: 7-5
Previous ranking: 16

The Brewers are showing signs they could be the cream of the crop in the division as they continue to pitch lights out with the twosome of Brandon Woodruff and Corbin Burnes performing as advertised. A resurgent Travis Shaw is helping a just-good-enough-to-contend offense, while Christian Yelich is beginning to look like his old self. -- Rogers

16. St. Louis Cardinals

Record: 6-6
Previous ranking: 13

St. Louis might be the most confusing team in the division, showing some signs of being a playoff contender but then taking a step back -- hence their .500-ish record. Normally known as a pitching franchise, the Cardinals' team ERA is near the bottom of the league. -- Rogers

17. Cleveland Indians

Record: 6-5
Previous ranking: 17

Cleveland has allowed the fewest runs per game of any team, ranks third in strikeout percentage and has yielded the lowest average on balls in play. Shane Bieber looks every bit as dominant as he did en route to last season's AL Cy Young Award and leads Cleveland's young rotation. And Emmanuel Clase has returned from a season-long suspension last year to join James Karinchak in giving Terry Francona one of baseball's nastiest one-two bullpen combinations. -- Doolittle

18. Oakland Athletics

Record: 5-7
Previous ranking: 18

Oakland looked brutal in the first weekend, getting outscored 35-9 against the Astros, but bounced back with a 3-3 week. Despite looking better, the team lost closer Trevor Rosenthal, who signed a one-year, $11 million contract this offseason, to thoracic outlet syndrome -- he is expected to be out at least 12 weeks. -- Lee

19. San Francisco Giants

Record: 8-4
Previous ranking: 23

The Giants' starting rotation had been carrying the load, and that was especially true for Kevin Gausman, the former No. 4 overall pick who might finally -- at age 30 -- be coming into his own. Despite getting roughed up by a surprisingly good Reds team on Tuesday, Gausman sports a 3.20 ERA and a 0.81 WHIP through his first three starts. The Giants' starters entered Wednesday with MLB's seventh-best ERA despite ranking 17th in strikeout percentage. -- Gonzalez

20. Chicago Cubs

Record: 5-7
Previous ranking: 14

The Cubs are reaching historic lows at the plate. Through 10 games, they had compiled the fewest hits in franchise history with just 49. After a round of good starts by recently acquired pitchers, both Zach Davies and Trevor Williams imploded in their most-recent outing. And the schedule has not been an especially tough one. That's coming. -- Rogers

21. Washington Nationals

Record: 3-6
Previous ranking: 15

The slow start is concerning, although they're just getting back their full roster after the COVID-19 outbreak. The big issue at the moment: What happened to Stephen Strasburg on Tuesday? He had the second worst start of his career (five walks, three HRs), the lowest fastball velocity of his career and was seen rubbing his shoulder in the tunnel next to the dugout. -- Schoenfield

22. Kansas City Royals

Record: 6-4
Previous ranking: 20

It's very early but the brand-name veterans the Royals picked up over the winter have mostly struggled out of the gate. Lefty Mike Minor has been decent over his first couple of starts and Wade Davis has been a strike-thrower out of the bullpen. But among the hitters, Carlos Santana started 5-for-33 with a lone homer and Andrew Benintendi went 7-for-35 without an extra-base hit. Nevertheless, the Royals have managed to remain around break-even in the win column by eking out just enough one-run wins. It's not a terribly sustainable formula, so K.C. needs the proven players they added for stability to provide stability. -- Doolittle

23. Miami Marlins

Record: 5-6
Previous ranking: 22

At some point during spring training, I wrote something along the lines of: "Don't be surprised if Trevor Rogers has a better season than Sixto Sanchez." With 16 strikeouts in 10 innings and a swing-and-miss rate that ranks in the 98th percentile, the early returns are promising. -- Schoenfield

24. Seattle Mariners

Record: 6-5
Previous ranking: 24

James Paxton will undergo season-ending elbow surgery, but the Mariners are sticking with a six-man rotation for now, with Nick Margevicius stepping into Paxton's slot. Still, you have to think this means top pitching prospect Logan Gilbert will be up sooner rather than later -- probably not in April, in order to conserve innings, but he has a chance to be the team's best starter right now. -- Schoenfield

25. Arizona Diamondbacks

Record: 4-8
Previous ranking: 25

Madison Bumgarner, owed $79 million from 2021 to 2024, has allowed 17 runs and has hit three batters in 13⅔ innings, even though his stuff has slightly ticked up from last year. In 55⅓ innings since signing with the D-backs, he sports a 7.64 ERA and has allowed 16 home runs. "I don't know what to say," Bumgarner said after allowing six runs to the A's on Monday. He later added: "I feel like at any time things could start clicking." If it doesn't happen soon, the D-backs are in the type of trouble that extends beyond their 2021 hopes. -- Gonzalez

26. Detroit Tigers

Record: 6-6
Previous ranking: 27

You wouldn't go so far as to say the Tigers have played well, but they have been lots of fun. The offense looks like it has one strength: hitting the long ball. Detroit has gotten multiple homers from offseason acquisitions Nomar Mazara, Wilson Ramos, Akil Baddoo and Renato Nunez. The pitching has mostly struggled but the entire franchise got a boost earlier this week when former top overall pick Casey Mize picked up his first big league win in dominant fashion, tossing seven scoreless frames against the Astros at Minute Maid Park. -- Doolittle

27. Texas Rangers

Record: 5-7
Previous ranking: 28

The Rangers have alternated between being unable to pitch and hit en route to their current below-.500 mark. They've been much better on the mound in week 2 but in getting swept against the Padres over the weekend, they scored just four runs in three games -- including being no-hit by San Diego's Joe Musgrove. -- Rogers

28. Baltimore Orioles

Record: 5-6
Previous ranking: 26

Baltimore started its season on a high note by sweeping Boston, but has struggled to do much since. Outfielder Cedric Mullins remains the team's brightest spot, hitting .442/.510/.651 with two homers and two stolen bases through 11 games. -- Lee

29. Colorado Rockies

Record: 3-9
Previous ranking: 29

Antonio Senzatela has allowed 12 runs (11 earned) in six innings against the Dodgers this season and has a 7.08 ERA in 48⅓ innings against them for his career. His response to those struggles? "I don't know. It's the Dodgers." He can probably speak for the whole team. -- Gonzalez

30. Pittsburgh Pirates

Record: 5-7
Previous ranking: 30

With an injured Ke'Bryan Hayes, the Pirates are just not dangerous enough against good pitching to do much damage. The Pirates are in the bottom third in both pitching and hitting, which explains everything about their below-.500 record. -- Rogers

What is athletics betting? How popular is it among punters? How can I bet on athletics and make money? Are there many best bookmakers online offering these betting options? If you are interested in betting on athletics, there are likely some questions that you need answers to.

You do not have to worry. This post focuses on all that you need to know about betting on athletics. Let us get started with the details already!

What is Athletics Betting?

Before going into the details on the popularity of athletics betting and how to place the bets, it is important to understand what athletics betting is all about it. Athletics includes different sports. The name is often used for a variety of sports, including running, walking, and other technical sports. It is a massive sport and the fact is that many reputable bookmakers offer bets on it.

When it comes to its popularity, athletics betting is gaining popularity gradually. Of course, it will be untrue to say that athletics sports have a huge fan but the truth is that many punters have begun to place bets on athletics competitions.

The best part is there are different competition options that bettors can explore. These include the Diamond League, Summer Olympic Games, European Championship and World Championship, among others.

What You Should Know about Athletics Betting

Although athletics betting is gaining traction among punters, it is not a very popular choice among them. Therefore, bookies only offer scant lines. The betting limits are average. However, they have unusually high odds designed to attract players.

Players can also find live betting in athletics and since there is not huge attention on the sport, there are not many experts that are involved. This means that punters that can play value have great potentials when they take advantage of the situation. Since the odds are pretty high for athletics, it is worth taking the risk to win big in the game.

How to Bet on Athletics

To place a bet, you first have to sign up with a reliable bookmaker. To reduce the associated risks, you should first go through the bookmaker’s rules about betting on athletics. Unfortunately, there are not many betting offers for athletics. However, you can bet on two major outcomes.

First, you can bet on the winner of the tournament, which is decided by the athlete that will take the first position based on the protocol. Second, you can bet on who is the better player.

Conclusion

Athletics competitions are not restricted to specific seasons. Rather, they hold all through the year. Some sports that are included in athletics apart from different forms of running include discus, javelins, shot put, jumps in height and length, and a lot more.

One of the benefits of athletics betting is that it does not have complex rules. You can easily decide on the potential winner without having to rely on any complex game system, just like in football and other sports. In athletics, the winner is often the participant that is stronger, more skilful, or stronger.

Welcome to our live report for the opening day of the Sheffield Shield final between Queensland and defending champions New South Wales at Allan Border Field in Brisbane. Join us for updates throughout the day.

*Most recent entry will appear at the top, please refresh your page for the latest updates. All times are local.

4.30pm: Closing stages

New South Wales have made a breakthrough, Josh Hazlewood finding the edge of Joe Burns with a terrific delivery, but they are desperate to strike again in the final period of the day. Nathan Lyon has found some big spin early in his spell and Trent Copeland has challenged Marnus Labuschagne.

3.50pm: Starc strains for a breakthrough

The Queensland openers, Bryce Street and Joe Burns, have repelled the early exchanges against the new ball. Street has stood up against Mitchell Starc with the pair sharing a few words after the batter was struck on the chest. There have been a few near-misses - Trent Copeland nearly struck first ball when he squared up Burns - but New South Wales have not yet been rewarded. They need something soon.

3.00pm: New South Wales 143 all out

A superb performance from Michael Neser and Jack Wildermuth has given Queensland control of the final. Neser took the final two wickets after tea to finish with 5 for 27. New South Wales will need to make inroads through the rest of the final session to get themselves back into the game. Having seen the success of the Queensland attack, Josh Hazlewood is the type of bowler who could be a considerable handful if he gets things right.

2.10pm: Tea - New South Wales 8 for 123

It's not looking great for the visitors on the opening day. Jack Wildermuth ended the afternoon session with two wickets in two balls by removing Mitchell Starc and Sean Abbott. It will be down their bowling attack (a very strong one, it must be said) to keep them in the game.

Here's Dan Brettig on the day so far

There was always a gambling element to the youthful batting lineup selected by NSW for the Sheffield Shield final, betting on talent over experience to generate enough runs against Queensland. As the Blues ran into enormous trouble on the first afternoon at Allan Border Field, limping into tea at 8 for 123, the balance of the side was cause for some reflection. In several ways, the Blues' young bats were unable to deal with the pressure of the bowling and the vagaries of a crusty pitch. Matt Gilkes misjudged Michael Neser and was bowled shouldering arms; Jason Sangha's flying start was ended when he chose the wrong ball to pull; Jack Edwards drove unwisely at a tempting Neser away drifter, and Baxter Holt hung his bat out in a fashion he won't want to look at on too many replays. With Daniel Hughes and Kurtis Patterson unable to go on to truly substantial scores, it added up to a world of pain for the visitors, even as Mitchell Swepson stood wicketless.

12.55pm: Michael Neser, again

Is there a player more unlucky to not yet have played a Test than Michael Neser? He is such a consistent performer for Queensland and his post-lunch spell has put them in control with him quickly adding the scalp of Jack Edwards to that of Jason Sangha. He has been a regular part of Australia squads for the last two years but hasn't yet been able to crack into the XI. There's an argument to say that the selectors should look beyond outright pace, especially on certain pitches. After this match he's off for a spell with Glamorgan in county cricket where he's sure to be a threat.

12.35pm: Sangha throws it away

There had been a hint of New South Wales putting the pressure back on Queensland after lunch with a little flurry of boundaries with Jason Sangha, who scored a century in the previous Shield match, being especially positive as he moved along at better than a run-a-ball. However, he then made a costly error when he took on a short delivery from Michael Neser and toe-ended a catch into the leg side to reinvigorate the home side with the ball still moving around.

11.30am: Lunch - New South Wales 2 for 54

It's been a tense morning at Allan Border Field with New South Wales doing well to be just two down. And there was a touch of controversy with the second wicket with Jack Wildermuth mighty close to a no-ball. Here's Dan Brettig with a view of session:

An enigmatic surface made for an absorbing start to the Sheffield Shield final. Typically known for being flat as concrete, AB Field this time offered a pitch that was both extremely dry but also offering some green grass. The result was a generous helping of sideways seam movement with the new ball, well exploited by Michael Neser to bowl Matt Gilkes shouldering arms, and very nearly followed up by Jack Wildermuth having Daniel Hughes taken behind - only to see the low edge narrowly missed by a diving Jimmy Peirson. More intrigue was created by a couple of puffs of dust as balls appeared to go through the top of the surface, and there were signs of spin in Mitch Swepson's exploratory couple of overs before lunch. Whatever happens, the pitch already looks like it will produce a result inside five days.

10.25am: What role for spin?

The Queensland seamers have been excellent so far, but this match also features the two best spinners in Australia: Nathan Lyon and Mitchell Swepson. We've already seen one delivery disturb the surface, albeit from a short length, which suggests there will be something for the spinners later.

Lyon has been doing his stuff for seasons, but this summer has been very significant in Swepson's development - it looked like he was done for the season with a neck injury but has made a timely recovery and in Wollongong earlier this month produced a delivery Shane Warne would have been proud of.

Dan Brettig looks at Swepson's development and what it could mean for Australia

10.00am: Early challenge against the new ball

It's been a demanding start for the New South Wales top order against the new ball in the hands of Michael Neser and Jack Wildermuth. Neser has provided the first breakthrough when Matthew Gilkes shouldered arms and lost his off stump - it was a beautiful set-up from Neser who had been moving the ball away from the left hander. There has been nibble on offer for both bowlers.

9.30am: Play underway

A nervy start from New South Wales in the opening. Daniel Hughes gets an inside edge into the vacant short leg area then Matthew Gilkes would have been run out with a direct hit. Will be interesting to see how much movement there is with the new ball due to the earlier start.

9.15am: The talking points

New South Wales almost have Australia's Test attack for this match (just missing Pat Cummins who is at the IPL) but there batting has a far more inexperienced look after changes were made following the 32 all out against Tasmania. However, there are already signs that was the right move. Dan Brettig takes a look at the future.

"The New South Wales selectors had already shown some degree of interest in the future arc of the national team by elevating Pat Cummins to the domestic limited-overs captaincy ahead of Smith. It was a call effectively indicating their preference for who they would like to see named national captain whenever the time comes for Tim Paine to surrender his post - most likely after next summer's Ashes series, as commentary roles and the release of a memoir await him.

"At the same time, the Tasmania defeat forced a pivot to a far more less experienced batting line-up for the final Shield game against Queensland with a place in the final still to secure. Out went Larkin, Solway and Nevill; in came Matthew Gilkes, Jack Edwards, Lachlan Hearne and Baxter Holt as wicketkeeper. Of this group, Edwards (to turn 21 on the final day of the final) has already been heavily invested in, while Hearne (20) and Holt (21) have been growing ever more impatient for chances to show their wares."

9.00am: The final act

It's been a long season - the longest ever - and we've reached the final game. Who will take the Sheffield Shield title? It should be a terrific contest with a host of international players on show across both sides.

The early news from Allan Border Field is that New South Wales have won the toss and will bat

Queensland 1 Bryce Street, 2 Joe Burns, 3 Marnus Labuschagne, 4 Usman Khawaja (capt), 5 Matt Renshaw, 6 Jimmy Peirson (wk), 7 Jack Wildermuth, 8 Michael Neser, 9 Xavier Bartlett, 10 Mitch Swepson, 11 Brendan Doggett

New South Wales 1 Daniel Hughes, 2 Matthew Gilkes, 3 Kurtis Patterson (capt), 4 Jason Sangha, 5 Jack Edwards, 6 Sean Abbott, 7 Baxter Holt (wk), 8 Mitchell Starc, 9 Trent Copeland, 10 Nathan Lyon, 11 Josh Hazlewood

Want to know how things are decided if it's draw...here are the details