French giants Paris Saint-Germain on Thursday sacked manager Thomas Tuchel. The former Borussia Dortmund boss was under immense pressure with PSG sitting third in the Ligue 1 points table, behind Lyon and Lille, after a topsy-turvy start to the 2020-21 season.

Tuchel was appointed head coach of PSG in 2018 with the priority of lifting the club’s maiden UEFA Champions League trophy. The 47-year-old was backed by the PSG hierarchy and Tuchel even came close to delivering the UCL trophy in 2019 but lost in the final, to Bayern Munich 1-0.&nbsp;

PSG’s defeat in the UCL final against Bayern Munich, added with poor Ligue 1 form, has aided in Tuchel’s sacking as head coach of PSG.

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Tuchel was informed about the development in Paris after guiding PSG to a 4-0 win over Strasbourg last night.&nbsp;

With the likes of Mauricio Pochettino and Massimiliano Allegri available, PSG went ahead and sacked Tuchel.

Both Allegri and Pochettino are favourites to replace Tuchel at Parc des Princes. While Allegri stepped down from Juventus in 2018 after winning five Serie A trophies in a row, Pochettino has been out of work since being removed from his role at Tottenham Hotspur.&nbsp;

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It would be interesting to see what the future lies for Tuchel, who is relatively a young manager and has done well for both his previous clubs Borussia Dortmund and Paris Saint-Germain.&nbsp;

French giants Paris Saint-Germain on Thursday sacked manager Thomas Tuchel. The former Borussia Dortmund boss was under immense pressure with PSG sitting third in the Ligue 1 points table, behind Lyon and Lille, after a topsy-turvy start to the 2020-21 season.

French giants Paris Saint-Germain on Thursday sacked manager Thomas Tuchel. The former Borussia Dortmund boss was under immense pressure with PSG sitting third in the Ligue 1 points table, behind Lyon and Lille, after a topsy-turvy start to the 2020-21 season. Tuchel was appointed head coach of PSG in 2018 with the priority of lifting the club’s maiden UEFA Champions League trophy. The 47-year-old was backed by the PSG hierarchy and Tuchel even came close to delivering the UCL trophy in 2019 but lost in the final, to Bayern Munich 1-0. PSG’s defeat in the UCL final against Bayern Munich, added with poor Ligue 1 form, has aided in Tuchel’s sacking as head coach of PSG. ALSO READ: Manchester rivals to clash in League Cup semis Tuchel was informed about the development in Paris after guiding PSG to a 4-0 win over Strasbourg last night. With the likes of Mauricio Pochettino and Massimiliano Allegri available, PSG went ahead and sacked Tuchel. Both Allegri and Pochettino are favourites to replace Tuchel at Parc des Princes. While Allegri stepped down from Juventus in 2018 after winning five Serie A trophies in a row, Pochettino has been out of work since being removed from his role at Tottenham Hotspur. ALSO READ: Argentina star Diego Maradona's autopsy shows no drink or illegal drugs It would be interesting to see what the future lies for Tuchel, who is relatively a young manager and has done well for both his previous clubs Borussia Dortmund and Paris Saint-Germain.

Paris Saint-Germain sack Thomas Tuchel; Pochettino, Allegri favourites to take charge

In what comes as a boost for domestic cricketers, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has approved the addition of two more franchises in Indian Premier League (IPL) from the 2022 edition at its 89th Annual General Meeting (AGM) at Ahmedabad.

It was widely speculated that the 2021 edition of IPL could feature 10 teams but given the current circumstances surrounding the coronavirus and less time in hand before IPL 2021, the BCCI has approved addition of two teams from 2022 edition. The BCCI will support International Cricket Council's bid for the inclusion of cricket in 2028 Olympics after clarity from Indian Olympic Association.

According to a report in TOI, the BCCI is set to design a compensation package for domestic cricketers if the Ranji Trophy or the Vijay Hazare Trophy is cancelled due to COVID-19.&nbsp;The Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy is scheduled to kick-start from January 10 to 31.

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“The idea to compensate the domestic cricketers adequately was mooted by BCCI secretary Jay Shah,” a reliable source told TOI on Thursday.&nbsp;

The BCCI has further increased the insurance cover for cricketers from INR 5 lakh to INR 10 lakh. 
Furthermore, the retirement age of umpires, match referees and scorers to 60 from 55.

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Notably, there were no questions raised on BCCI president Sourav Ganguly’s endorsement deals, which has made headlines over the last couple of weeks, and no questions were put on the floor.

Rajiv Shukla returned as vice-president of BCCI after being elected unopposed whereas Brijesh Patel and Khairul Majumdar retain their positions in IPL governing council.

In what comes as a boost for domestic cricketers, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has approved the addition of two more franchises in Indian Premier League (IPL) from the 2022 edition at its 89th Annual General Meeting (AGM) at Ahmedabad.

In what comes as a boost for domestic cricketers, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has approved the addition of two more franchises in Indian Premier League (IPL) from the 2022 edition at its 89th Annual General Meeting (AGM) at Ahmedabad. It was widely speculated that the 2021 edition of IPL could feature 10 teams but given the current circumstances surrounding the coronavirus and less time in hand before IPL 2021, the BCCI has approved addition of two teams from 2022 edition. The BCCI will support International Cricket Council's bid for the inclusion of cricket in 2028 Olympics after clarity from Indian Olympic Association. According to a report in TOI, the BCCI is set to design a compensation package for domestic cricketers if the Ranji Trophy or the Vijay Hazare Trophy is cancelled due to COVID-19. The Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy is scheduled to kick-start from January 10 to 31. ALSO READ: Melbourne on standby for third Test, Sydney still preferred option: Nick Hockley “The idea to compensate the domestic cricketers adequately was mooted by BCCI secretary Jay Shah,” a reliable source told TOI on Thursday. The BCCI has further increased the insurance cover for cricketers from INR 5 lakh to INR 10 lakh. Furthermore, the retirement age of umpires, match referees and scorers to 60 from 55. ALSO READ: None of my business, glad if India are stressed: Justin Langer on being in Ravi Shastri's shoes Notably, there were no questions raised on BCCI president Sourav Ganguly’s endorsement deals, which has made headlines over the last couple of weeks, and no questions were put on the floor. Rajiv Shukla returned as vice-president of BCCI after being elected unopposed whereas Brijesh Patel and Khairul Majumdar retain their positions in IPL governing council.

BCCI AGM: 10-team IPL approved from 2022 edition, board to back cricket's inclusion in 2028 Olympics

Australian spin legend Shane Warne has weighed his opinion on the impending Boxing Day Test between India and Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground as the former leg-spinner said that Aussies are going to blow India away.&nbsp;

India are badly hurt after their crushing eight-wicket defeat in Adelaide and would be hoping to bounce back in the four-Test series without having the likes of Virat Kohli and Mohammed Shami in the team.

"I think Australia is probably going to blow them away," Shane Warne told 'Fox Cricket'.

"Having said that, they have some class players to come in like KL Rahul. Young Gill will come in. (Ajinkya) Rahane is a class act. We know what (Cheteshwar) Pujara can do," he said.

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"(Mohammed) Shami is a huge loss as well. He's such a quality bowler. And if you look at bowlers for the Melbourne conditions drop-in pitches. Shami hits the seam and stands it up and bowls a good length and straight."

Warner added that the Australian bowling unit deserves more credit for the Adelaide Test than criticism faced by the Indian batters.&nbsp;

"Yeah, you can have a go at the Indians but I think you would rather give credit to the Australians and how well they bowled," the 51-year-old former leg-spinner said.

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"They were outstanding, that bowling attack. The four bowlers plus Green, have been good bowlers for a long time. They are turning themselves into great bowlers now. To watch them go to work in Adelaide was fantastic."

The former Australian cricketer further opined that the quartet of Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc and Nathan Lyon are going to end up as Australia’s greatest bowling unit.&nbsp;

"They are definitely in the conversation (to compare them to my era). They are outstanding those four bowlers and they have been for a while," Warne said.

The Boxing Day Test between India and Australia is set to commence from December 26 at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground.

Australian spin legend Shane Warne has weighed his opinion on the impending Boxing Day Test between India and Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground as the former leg-spinner said that Aussies are going to blow India away.

Australian spin legend Shane Warne has weighed his opinion on the impending Boxing Day Test between India and Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground as the former leg-spinner said that Aussies are going to blow India away. India are badly hurt after their crushing eight-wicket defeat in Adelaide and would be hoping to bounce back in the four-Test series without having the likes of Virat Kohli and Mohammed Shami in the team. "I think Australia is probably going to blow them away," Shane Warne told 'Fox Cricket'. "Having said that, they have some class players to come in like KL Rahul. Young Gill will come in. (Ajinkya) Rahane is a class act. We know what (Cheteshwar) Pujara can do," he said. ALSO READ: Melbourne on standby for third Test, Sydney still preferred option: Nick Hockley "(Mohammed) Shami is a huge loss as well. He's such a quality bowler. And if you look at bowlers for the Melbourne conditions drop-in pitches. Shami hits the seam and stands it up and bowls a good length and straight." Warner added that the Australian bowling unit deserves more credit for the Adelaide Test than criticism faced by the Indian batters. "Yeah, you can have a go at the Indians but I think you would rather give credit to the Australians and how well they bowled," the 51-year-old former leg-spinner said. ALSO READ: None of my business, glad if India are stressed: Justin Langer on being in Ravi Shastri's shoes "They were outstanding, that bowling attack. The four bowlers plus Green, have been good bowlers for a long time. They are turning themselves into great bowlers now. To watch them go to work in Adelaide was fantastic." The former Australian cricketer further opined that the quartet of Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc and Nathan Lyon are going to end up as Australia’s greatest bowling unit. "They are definitely in the conversation (to compare them to my era). They are outstanding those four bowlers and they have been for a while," Warne said. The Boxing Day Test between India and Australia is set to commence from December 26 at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground.

Australia are going to blow India away in Boxing Day Test: Shane Warne

The iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) has been put on standby for the third Test if Australia are unable to host India in Sydney following a fresh COVID-19 outbreak in New South Wales, Cricket Australia (CA) said on Thursday.

The New Year’s Test venue has been subject of debate after a new community outbreak emerged in Sydney’s northern beach suburbs last week.

However, CA interim chief executive Nick Hockley said they intend to play the third Test in Sydney, from January 7-11, but would shift bases to Melbourne if the need arises. A final call could be taken during the Boxing Day Test at the MCG.

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If the third Test is moved to Melbourne, the fourth Test at Brisbane’s Gabba, from January 15, would go ahead as per the schedule.&nbsp;

“We’ve got a range of contingencies for every eventuality,” Hockley told reporters in a Zoom conference.

“If situation worsens in Sydney, one of those options is to stay in Melbourne, play the New Year’s test in Melbourne and then go straight to Brisbane.”

“We’ve been really buoyed by the way that the New South Wales and Sydney communities seem to be getting on top of this.”

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“So we are currently planning all systems go for the New Year’s test to take place in Sydney as scheduled.”

Australia’s most populous city has been isolated from the rest of the country with state borders shut or mandatory 14-day quarantine for Sydney arrivals.

The India team, who lost the Adelaide Test by eight-wickets, would prefer the original schedule, said Hockley who also ruled out playing consecutive Tests in Sydney.&nbsp;

“There’s a relatively short gap between the third and fourth tests, so from a pitch perspective it’s highly, highly problematic,” he said.

The CA is working with the Queensland state government in a bid to get exemptions to allow players, match officials, broadcasters, media and staff to move from Sydney to Brisbane following the third Test if the border was still shut. 
&nbsp;

The iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) has been put on standby for the third Test if Australia are unable to host India in Sydney following a fresh COVID-19 outbreak in New South Wales, Cricket Australia (CA) said on Thursday.

The iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) has been put on standby for the third Test if Australia are unable to host India in Sydney following a fresh COVID-19 outbreak in New South Wales, Cricket Australia (CA) said on Thursday. The New Year’s Test venue has been subject of debate after a new community outbreak emerged in Sydney’s northern beach suburbs last week. However, CA interim chief executive Nick Hockley said they intend to play the third Test in Sydney, from January 7-11, but would shift bases to Melbourne if the need arises. A final call could be taken during the Boxing Day Test at the MCG. ALSO READ: None of my business, glad if India are stressed: Justin Langer on being in Ravi Shastri's shoes If the third Test is moved to Melbourne, the fourth Test at Brisbane’s Gabba, from January 15, would go ahead as per the schedule. “We’ve got a range of contingencies for every eventuality,” Hockley told reporters in a Zoom conference. “If situation worsens in Sydney, one of those options is to stay in Melbourne, play the New Year’s test in Melbourne and then go straight to Brisbane.” “We’ve been really buoyed by the way that the New South Wales and Sydney communities seem to be getting on top of this.” ALSO READ: Australia set to be unchanged for Boxing Day India Test: Langer “So we are currently planning all systems go for the New Year’s test to take place in Sydney as scheduled.” Australia’s most populous city has been isolated from the rest of the country with state borders shut or mandatory 14-day quarantine for Sydney arrivals. The India team, who lost the Adelaide Test by eight-wickets, would prefer the original schedule, said Hockley who also ruled out playing consecutive Tests in Sydney. “There’s a relatively short gap between the third and fourth tests, so from a pitch perspective it’s highly, highly problematic,” he said. The CA is working with the Queensland state government in a bid to get exemptions to allow players, match officials, broadcasters, media and staff to move from Sydney to Brisbane following the third Test if the border was still shut.

Melbourne on standby for third Test, Sydney still preferred option: Nick Hockley

Australian head coach Justin Langer dodged a bullet during a press conference on Thursday, when asked about criticism over Ravi Shastri’s tenure as India’s head coach, as the Aussie said that it was none of his business while saying he is glad if India are feeling any stress.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
A lot of criticism has come on Shastri’s way following India’s eight-wicket defeat to Australia wherein India were bundled out for 36 in the second innings.

"None of my business. I have had enough with stress. I empathize with the opposition and I know what it feels like. If India are feeling any stress, I am glad they are and not us over the Christmas weekend," Justin Langer said in a virtual media press conference.

Langer further said that he has enormous faith in Australia’s Test captain Tim Paine and in his leadership qualities.

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"You think about Adam Gilchrist, I guess, who transformed the game in a sense, and that is why Adam Gilchrist is an all-time great player because he transformed the game. I have got enormous faith in Tim Paine," Langer said.

"...whether it's his wicket-keeping, his captaincy, his batting, I have said publicly and privately for almost the last year, he is our most important player, because he is a lead wicket-keeper, his leadership on and off the field is incredible," he said.

"....we saw he can play, how well he batted in first innings under pressure in Adelaide, probably changed the game actually with the run-out of Virat Kohli, so he is a great player, a great leader and I literally love having him in our team," he said.

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Australia would be looking to carry the winning momentum and take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the four-Test series despite suffering a massive blow in which key opener David Warner was ruled out of the Boxing Day Test versus India, scheduled to start from December 26 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

Australian head coach Justin Langer dodged a bullet during a press conference on Thursday, when asked about criticism over Ravi Shastri’s tenure as India’s head coach, as the Aussie said that it was none of his business while saying he is glad if India are feeling any stress.

Australian head coach Justin Langer dodged a bullet during a press conference on Thursday, when asked about criticism over Ravi Shastri’s tenure as India’s head coach, as the Aussie said that it was none of his business while saying he is glad if India are feeling any stress. A lot of criticism has come on Shastri’s way following India’s eight-wicket defeat to Australia wherein India were bundled out for 36 in the second innings. "None of my business. I have had enough with stress. I empathize with the opposition and I know what it feels like. If India are feeling any stress, I am glad they are and not us over the Christmas weekend," Justin Langer said in a virtual media press conference. Langer further said that he has enormous faith in Australia’s Test captain Tim Paine and in his leadership qualities. ALSO READ: Players will go out, new faces will come in. But what about Mr Ravi Shastri? "You think about Adam Gilchrist, I guess, who transformed the game in a sense, and that is why Adam Gilchrist is an all-time great player because he transformed the game. I have got enormous faith in Tim Paine," Langer said. "...whether it's his wicket-keeping, his captaincy, his batting, I have said publicly and privately for almost the last year, he is our most important player, because he is a lead wicket-keeper, his leadership on and off the field is incredible," he said. "....we saw he can play, how well he batted in first innings under pressure in Adelaide, probably changed the game actually with the run-out of Virat Kohli, so he is a great player, a great leader and I literally love having him in our team," he said. ALSO READ: 'Different rules for different people': Gavaskar questions team management on why Natarajan was not given paternity leave Australia would be looking to carry the winning momentum and take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the four-Test series despite suffering a massive blow in which key opener David Warner was ruled out of the Boxing Day Test versus India, scheduled to start from December 26 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

None of my business, glad if India are stressed: Justin Langer on being in Ravi Shastri's shoes

Ajinkya Rahane is a “bowler’s captain” whose calm leadership will come in handy in India’s bid to bounce back in the four-test series against Australia, seamer Ishant Sharma said.

Regular skipper Virat Kohli left Australia to attend the birth of his first child after India’s eight-wicket humiliation in the series-opener in Adelaide inside three days.

Unlike an often-animated Kohli, Rahane maintains a low profile on the field and the bowlers are likely to be consulted more in the last three tests under him, said Ishant.

“He’s very confident and I must say he’s a bowler’s captain,” the right-arm bowler, who missed the tour with a side strain injury, told the ESPNcricinfo website.

“We’ve played so many times together. Whenever Virat was not there, he’d ask me ‘What kind of field you want? When you want to bowl? Do you want to go on (bowling)?’

“He’s a bowler’s captain. He’s not someone who’d say ‘do this or do that’.”

The 32-year-old quick said Rahane, who led India to test victories against Australia and Afghanistan in the past, often acts as a conduit between the bowlers and Kohli.

While it was nearly impossible to match Kohli’s energy on the field, Rahane’s composed presence could help India during pressure situations, Ishant said.

“If there’s a partnership growing and it’s a flat phase when fielders are just going through their motions, one player’s energy level can change the scenario,” he said.

Ajinkya Rahane is a “bowler’s captain” whose calm leadership will come in handy in India’s bid to bounce back in the four-test series against Australia, seamer Ishant Sharma said.

Ajinkya Rahane is a “bowler’s captain” whose calm leadership will come in handy in India’s bid to bounce back in the four-test series against Australia, seamer Ishant Sharma said. Regular skipper Virat Kohli left Australia to attend the birth of his first child after India’s eight-wicket humiliation in the series-opener in Adelaide inside three days. Unlike an often-animated Kohli, Rahane maintains a low profile on the field and the bowlers are likely to be consulted more in the last three tests under him, said Ishant. “He’s very confident and I must say he’s a bowler’s captain,” the right-arm bowler, who missed the tour with a side strain injury, told the ESPNcricinfo website. “We’ve played so many times together. Whenever Virat was not there, he’d ask me ‘What kind of field you want? When you want to bowl? Do you want to go on (bowling)?’ “He’s a bowler’s captain. He’s not someone who’d say ‘do this or do that’.” The 32-year-old quick said Rahane, who led India to test victories against Australia and Afghanistan in the past, often acts as a conduit between the bowlers and Kohli. While it was nearly impossible to match Kohli’s energy on the field, Rahane’s composed presence could help India during pressure situations, Ishant said. “If there’s a partnership growing and it’s a flat phase when fielders are just going through their motions, one player’s energy level can change the scenario,” he said.

Ishant expects 'bowler's captain' Rahane to fill Kohli void

Manchester City increased the pressure on Mikel Arteta as the League Cup holders powered into the semi-finals with a 4-1 demolition of troubled Arsenal on Tuesday.

City ensured it will be a miserable Christmas for beleaguered Arsenal boss Arteta by condemning his side to a fourth defeat in their last six games in all competitions.

Gabriel Jesus took just three minutes to put City ahead at the Emirates Stadium and although Alexandre Lacazette equalised, it was another night of torture for Arteta.

Arsenal's reserve keeper Alex Runarsson was made a horrendous mistake when he allowed Riyad Mahrez's free-kick to squirm into the net.

Phil Foden and Aymeric Laporte piled on the pain for Arsenal with further goals to seal the rout.

"It's a hard one to take considering how the game went. This level of opponent, when you give the goals away it makes the game impossible," Arteta said.

"A lot of strange things are happening in every game and that makes things really difficult.

"Runarsson has not played a lot of games for us. We all make mistakes and have to support him."

Languishing 15th in the Premier League after losing five of their last seven games -- their worst start to a season since 1974-75 -- Arsenal are in crisis.

Amid talk of dressing room unrest, Arteta, who worked as Pep Guardiola's City assistant before joining Arsenal 12 months ago, will be in danger of the sack if Arsenal's wretched run continues into the new year.

"We have to turn it around. If we don't, we are in big trouble. So that is the moment which is going to decide our season," Arteta said.

"On the basis of what we have shown tonight against difficult opponents, I have fighters in my team."

Guardiola defended Arteta, saying: "He is an incredible manager. I know his proposals and what he will do.

"Not even a little run of bad results is going to change my opinion."

Arteta made eight changes from Saturday's defeat at Everton, yet City made seven switches of their own and still went ahead in the blink of an eye.

Jesus, without a goal in his previous seven games, started the move wide on the left when he fed Foden and made an astute run into the six-yard box.

Oleksandr Zinchenko's cross reached Jesus and, aided by Runarsson's missed punch, the Brazilian netted with a clinical header at the near post while the Gunners' defence stood and watched.

Arsenal equalised against the run of play in the 31st minute as Gabriel Martinelli's cross from the byline found Lacazette, who threw himself forward to guide his header into the roof of the net.

City were gifted the lead again in the 54th minute when Runarsson made a complete hash of dealing with Mahrez's free-kick, the Iceland international allowing a shot that was straight at him to slip through his gloves like a bar of soap.

<h2>- Knockout blow -</h2>

With no VAR in the League Cup, Foden's run from a slightly offside position went unchecked and he delivered the knockout blow with a cool flick over Runarsson.

Foden turned provider in the 73rd minute with a teasing cross that was headed in by Laporte.

City trail eight points behind Premier League leaders Liverpool, but they are unbeaten in their last nine games in all competitions -- conceding just two goals in that period.

Guardiola's men have won the League Cup for the last three seasons and are bidding to become the first team to win it four years in a row since Liverpool from 1981 to 1984.

Brentford, fourth in the Championship,enjoyed a shock 1-0 win against Premier League side Newcastle thanks to Josh Dasilva's 66th minute goal in west London.

Thomas Frank's team had already knocked out West Bromwich Albion, Southampton and Fulham en route to the quarter-finals.&nbsp;

Their fourth Premier League scalp took them into their first ever major domestic cup semi-final.

"I'm bitterly disappointed and very frustrated at this minute," Newcastle manager Steve Bruce said.

Manchester City increased the pressure on Mikel Arteta as the League Cup holders powered into the semi-finals with a 4-1 demolition of troubled Arsenal on Tuesday.

Manchester City increased the pressure on Mikel Arteta as the League Cup holders powered into the semi-finals with a 4-1 demolition of troubled Arsenal on Tuesday. City ensured it will be a miserable Christmas for beleaguered Arsenal boss Arteta by condemning his side to a fourth defeat in their last six games in all competitions. Gabriel Jesus took just three minutes to put City ahead at the Emirates Stadium and although Alexandre Lacazette equalised, it was another night of torture for Arteta. Arsenal's reserve keeper Alex Runarsson was made a horrendous mistake when he allowed Riyad Mahrez's free-kick to squirm into the net. Phil Foden and Aymeric Laporte piled on the pain for Arsenal with further goals to seal the rout. "It's a hard one to take considering how the game went. This level of opponent, when you give the goals away it makes the game impossible," Arteta said. "A lot of strange things are happening in every game and that makes things really difficult. "Runarsson has not played a lot of games for us. We all make mistakes and have to support him." Languishing 15th in the Premier League after losing five of their last seven games -- their worst start to a season since 1974-75 -- Arsenal are in crisis. Amid talk of dressing room unrest, Arteta, who worked as Pep Guardiola's City assistant before joining Arsenal 12 months ago, will be in danger of the sack if Arsenal's wretched run continues into the new year. "We have to turn it around. If we don't, we are in big trouble. So that is the moment which is going to decide our season," Arteta said. "On the basis of what we have shown tonight against difficult opponents, I have fighters in my team." Guardiola defended Arteta, saying: "He is an incredible manager. I know his proposals and what he will do. "Not even a little run of bad results is going to change my opinion." Arteta made eight changes from Saturday's defeat at Everton, yet City made seven switches of their own and still went ahead in the blink of an eye. Jesus, without a goal in his previous seven games, started the move wide on the left when he fed Foden and made an astute run into the six-yard box. Oleksandr Zinchenko's cross reached Jesus and, aided by Runarsson's missed punch, the Brazilian netted with a clinical header at the near post while the Gunners' defence stood and watched. Arsenal equalised against the run of play in the 31st minute as Gabriel Martinelli's cross from the byline found Lacazette, who threw himself forward to guide his header into the roof of the net. City were gifted the lead again in the 54th minute when Runarsson made a complete hash of dealing with Mahrez's free-kick, the Iceland international allowing a shot that was straight at him to slip through his gloves like a bar of soap. - Knockout blow - With no VAR in the League Cup, Foden's run from a slightly offside position went unchecked and he delivered the knockout blow with a cool flick over Runarsson. Foden turned provider in the 73rd minute with a teasing cross that was headed in by Laporte. City trail eight points behind Premier League leaders Liverpool, but they are unbeaten in their last nine games in all competitions -- conceding just two goals in that period. Guardiola's men have won the League Cup for the last three seasons and are bidding to become the first team to win it four years in a row since Liverpool from 1981 to 1984. Brentford, fourth in the Championship,enjoyed a shock 1-0 win against Premier League side Newcastle thanks to Josh Dasilva's 66th minute goal in west London. Thomas Frank's team had already knocked out West Bromwich Albion, Southampton and Fulham en route to the quarter-finals. Their fourth Premier League scalp took them into their first ever major domestic cup semi-final. "I'm bitterly disappointed and very frustrated at this minute," Newcastle manager Steve Bruce said.

Arteta's problems mount as Man City reach League Cup semis at Arsenal's expense

Lionel Messi overtook Pele's record of goals for a single club on Tuesday as Barcelona strolled to a 3-0 La Liga win at Real Valladolid, while Atletico Madrid kept hold of their place at the top of the table.

Messi struck his 644th goal for Barca, one more than Brazil legend Pele scored for Santos, in the 65th minute of a routine win for Ronald Koeman's side, who are fifth in La Liga after the win and eight points behind leaders Atletico.

The Argentine, who had looked out of sorts this season after trying to leave the club in the summer, was at the heart of a powerful Barca performance against admittedly poor opposition.

Catalan giants Barca have won three of their last four matches after two embarrassing defeats to Cadiz and Juventus earlier this month.

"I see Messi happy. He is working hard, and he is a very important part of our attacking game," said Koeman after the win.

Barca started on the front foot at the Jose Zorrilla Stadium, with Messi flashing a curling shot wide in the seventh minute and forcing a superb save from Jordi Masip in the 20th minute.

Barca took the lead seconds later when Messi clipped over a beautiful cross which France defender Clement Lenglet headed home.

Martin Braithwaite gave the away side a deserved second 14 minutes later, Messi slipping through Sergio Dest who rolled over a perfect low cross for the Danish international to tap home.

Messi scored the landmark goal his excellent performance deserved with a simple finish after bursting through to collect Pedri's delicate backheeled assist.

The easy win puts Barca two points behind Sociedad and fourth-placed Villarreal, who drew 1-1 at home with Athletic Bilbao.

<h2>- Atleti stay top -</h2>

Earlier second-half goals from Mario Hermoso and Marcos Llorente earned Atletico a 2-0 win away at a Sociedad team that started the fixture three points off the lead but are now six back in third after their third straight league defeat.

Diego Simeone's side are three clear of second-placed Real Madrid, who can move level again with their city rivals with a home win over Granada on Wednesday.

Atletico know that however Madrid fare that they will have played two fewer games than the reigning champions, while Sociedad have played three games more than the leaders.

The win was Simeone's 300th league win as Atletico coach.

"It's means a lot, really a lot," the Argentine said.

"I came here with the idea of taking Atletico to the summit of the game ... I can't thank the club enough for what they have given me."

Sociedad were the better side in the first half but couldn't carve a goalscoring opportunity in an opening period without a shot on target.

Atletico went ahead just three minutes after the break when Hermoso found himself unmarked in the area and perfectly met Yannick Carrasco's free-kick to send a header flying into the bottom corner.

Atletico sealed the points with 16 minutes remaining, Llorente lashing home when the ball fell to him on the edge of the area to complete a textbook away performance.

Sevilla are sixth, nine points behind Atletico after Suso fired them to a 1-0 win at struggling Valencia.

Suso gave the Andalusians the points with a thumping strike in the 81st minute after charging through to collect a Joan Jordan through ball.

Valencia are 13th and just a point above the relegation zone after their sixth consecutive league match without a win.&nbsp;

Lionel Messi overtook Pele's record of goals for a single club on Tuesday as Barcelona strolled to a 3-0 La Liga win at Real Valladolid, while Atletico Madrid kept hold of their place at the top of the table.

Lionel Messi overtook Pele's record of goals for a single club on Tuesday as Barcelona strolled to a 3-0 La Liga win at Real Valladolid, while Atletico Madrid kept hold of their place at the top of the table. Messi struck his 644th goal for Barca, one more than Brazil legend Pele scored for Santos, in the 65th minute of a routine win for Ronald Koeman's side, who are fifth in La Liga after the win and eight points behind leaders Atletico. The Argentine, who had looked out of sorts this season after trying to leave the club in the summer, was at the heart of a powerful Barca performance against admittedly poor opposition. Catalan giants Barca have won three of their last four matches after two embarrassing defeats to Cadiz and Juventus earlier this month. "I see Messi happy. He is working hard, and he is a very important part of our attacking game," said Koeman after the win. Barca started on the front foot at the Jose Zorrilla Stadium, with Messi flashing a curling shot wide in the seventh minute and forcing a superb save from Jordi Masip in the 20th minute. Barca took the lead seconds later when Messi clipped over a beautiful cross which France defender Clement Lenglet headed home. Martin Braithwaite gave the away side a deserved second 14 minutes later, Messi slipping through Sergio Dest who rolled over a perfect low cross for the Danish international to tap home. Messi scored the landmark goal his excellent performance deserved with a simple finish after bursting through to collect Pedri's delicate backheeled assist. The easy win puts Barca two points behind Sociedad and fourth-placed Villarreal, who drew 1-1 at home with Athletic Bilbao. - Atleti stay top - Earlier second-half goals from Mario Hermoso and Marcos Llorente earned Atletico a 2-0 win away at a Sociedad team that started the fixture three points off the lead but are now six back in third after their third straight league defeat. Diego Simeone's side are three clear of second-placed Real Madrid, who can move level again with their city rivals with a home win over Granada on Wednesday. Atletico know that however Madrid fare that they will have played two fewer games than the reigning champions, while Sociedad have played three games more than the leaders. The win was Simeone's 300th league win as Atletico coach. "It's means a lot, really a lot," the Argentine said. "I came here with the idea of taking Atletico to the summit of the game ... I can't thank the club enough for what they have given me." Sociedad were the better side in the first half but couldn't carve a goalscoring opportunity in an opening period without a shot on target. Atletico went ahead just three minutes after the break when Hermoso found himself unmarked in the area and perfectly met Yannick Carrasco's free-kick to send a header flying into the bottom corner. Atletico sealed the points with 16 minutes remaining, Llorente lashing home when the ball fell to him on the edge of the area to complete a textbook away performance. Sevilla are sixth, nine points behind Atletico after Suso fired them to a 1-0 win at struggling Valencia. Suso gave the Andalusians the points with a thumping strike in the 81st minute after charging through to collect a Joan Jordan through ball. Valencia are 13th and just a point above the relegation zone after their sixth consecutive league match without a win.

Messi overtakes Pele's goal record as Atletico cement Liga lead

Star Australian batsman David Warner will miss the Boxing Day Test against India after failing to shake off the groin injury that kept him out of the opening fixture, Cricket Australia said Wednesday.

The governing body said Warner and paceman Sean Abbott had also been excluded from the Australian team's bio-secure bubble in Melbourne as a precaution due to a Covid-19 outbreak in their hometown Sydney.

"While neither player has been in a specific hotspot as outlined by NSW Health, Cricket Australia's bio-security protocols do not allow them to rejoin the squad in time for the Boxing Day Test," it said.

The second Test against India starts at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on December 26 and the teams have been training in bio-secure bubbles.

Warner and Abbott flew to Melbourne on Saturday hoping to avoid quarantine issues arising from the Sydney Covid-19 outbreak.

But the team's Covid-19 protocols prevented them from joining the squad in time for the Test, and Cricket Australia said Warner would not have recovered from in time anyway.

Warner limped out of Australia's second one-day international against the tourists last month in agony after suffering the injury.

Authorities in New South Wales state have been scrambling to contain a virus cluster that emerged in Sydney's northern beaches after a long period of no community transmission in Australia's largest city.

The cluster currently stands at just under 100, and the state government announced a second day of single-digit growth in cases Wednesday and eased lockdown restrictions for Christmas.

It remains unclear whether the outbreak will affect the third Test against India, which is due to begin in Sydney on January 7.

"I know Cricket Australia's doing everything in their power to have the Test match in Sydney but we'll know more in a couple of days," off-spinner Nathan Lyon told reporters Wednesday.

"Fingers crossed it's in Sydney, but more importantly hopefully everyone stays safe and can have a decent Christmas."

Star Australian batsman David Warner will miss the Boxing Day Test against India after failing to shake off the groin injury that kept him out of the opening fixture, Cricket Australia said Wednesday.

Star Australian batsman David Warner will miss the Boxing Day Test against India after failing to shake off the groin injury that kept him out of the opening fixture, Cricket Australia said Wednesday. The governing body said Warner and paceman Sean Abbott had also been excluded from the Australian team's bio-secure bubble in Melbourne as a precaution due to a Covid-19 outbreak in their hometown Sydney. "While neither player has been in a specific hotspot as outlined by NSW Health, Cricket Australia's bio-security protocols do not allow them to rejoin the squad in time for the Boxing Day Test," it said. The second Test against India starts at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on December 26 and the teams have been training in bio-secure bubbles. Warner and Abbott flew to Melbourne on Saturday hoping to avoid quarantine issues arising from the Sydney Covid-19 outbreak. But the team's Covid-19 protocols prevented them from joining the squad in time for the Test, and Cricket Australia said Warner would not have recovered from in time anyway. Warner limped out of Australia's second one-day international against the tourists last month in agony after suffering the injury. Authorities in New South Wales state have been scrambling to contain a virus cluster that emerged in Sydney's northern beaches after a long period of no community transmission in Australia's largest city. The cluster currently stands at just under 100, and the state government announced a second day of single-digit growth in cases Wednesday and eased lockdown restrictions for Christmas. It remains unclear whether the outbreak will affect the third Test against India, which is due to begin in Sydney on January 7. "I know Cricket Australia's doing everything in their power to have the Test match in Sydney but we'll know more in a couple of days," off-spinner Nathan Lyon told reporters Wednesday. "Fingers crossed it's in Sydney, but more importantly hopefully everyone stays safe and can have a decent Christmas."

Australia's Warner, Abbott ruled out of Boxing Day India Test

The biggest talking point in the world of cricket still remains to be India’s 36-run all-out in the second innings which resulted in an eight-wicket win for Australia in Adelaide. Former Indian cricketer Sachin Tendulkar has weighed his opinion on India’s decimation at the Adelaide Oval in front of the Australian bowling attack.

Tendulkar shared his thoughts on what went so wrong for the Virat Kohli-led Indian cricket team in Adelaide. The Master Blaster said opined that the Indian batsmen lacked the basic feet movement while adding that good stride forward against pacers on foreign soil helps batsmen tackle the threat of seaming deliveries.

"I thought in the first innings we batted well and showed a lot of resilience. In the second innings, there was not much playing and missing by our batsmen. The ball wasn't moving around too much; just a little bit. Normally, when batters score runs we don't look at other elements, like the number of times he was beaten etc.," Tendulkar told IANS.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sachin-tendulkar-to-feature-in-the-never-surrender-christmas-campaign-by-sevilla-fc-351812" hreflang="en">Sachin Tendulkar to feature in the 'Never Surrender' Christmas campaign by Sevilla FC</a>

"But we talk about a number of aspects when the batter has edged the ball. Off similar deliveries, when you are beaten and when you are scoring runs, nobody talks about those. One change that one can talk about was getting a nice, big stride forward, which I felt was missing. In foreign conditions, I feel with a good stride forward against fast bowlers becomes important," Tendulkar said.

Tendulkar went on to praise the Australian bowlers for hitting tighter line and lengths outside the off-stump in the second innings which troubled the Indian batters massively.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sachin-tendulkar-to-feature-in-the-never-surrender-christmas-campaign-by-sevilla-fc-351812" hreflang="en">Sachin Tendulkar to feature in the 'Never Surrender' Christmas campaign by Sevilla FC</a>

"A half-and-half defence (short stride) can always trouble you and if there's a little more movement off the seam then your hands tend to compensate for the lack of footwork. What I also simultaneously noticed was that the Australians bowled very much on off stump -- much, much tighter -- and not outside the off stump whereas they bowled outside the off stump in the first innings," he said.

India, under the leadership of Ajinkya Rahane, would like to put the Adelaide Horror in the past and focus on bouncing back into the four-match Test series.

The biggest talking point in the world of cricket still remains to be India’s 36-run all-out in the second innings which resulted in an eight-wicket win for Australia in Adelaide.

The biggest talking point in the world of cricket still remains to be India’s 36-run all-out in the second innings which resulted in an eight-wicket win for Australia in Adelaide. Former Indian cricketer Sachin Tendulkar has weighed his opinion on India’s decimation at the Adelaide Oval in front of the Australian bowling attack. Tendulkar shared his thoughts on what went so wrong for the Virat Kohli-led Indian cricket team in Adelaide. The Master Blaster said opined that the Indian batsmen lacked the basic feet movement while adding that good stride forward against pacers on foreign soil helps batsmen tackle the threat of seaming deliveries. "I thought in the first innings we batted well and showed a lot of resilience. In the second innings, there was not much playing and missing by our batsmen. The ball wasn't moving around too much; just a little bit. Normally, when batters score runs we don't look at other elements, like the number of times he was beaten etc.," Tendulkar told IANS. ALSO READ: Sachin Tendulkar to feature in the 'Never Surrender' Christmas campaign by Sevilla FC "But we talk about a number of aspects when the batter has edged the ball. Off similar deliveries, when you are beaten and when you are scoring runs, nobody talks about those. One change that one can talk about was getting a nice, big stride forward, which I felt was missing. In foreign conditions, I feel with a good stride forward against fast bowlers becomes important," Tendulkar said. Tendulkar went on to praise the Australian bowlers for hitting tighter line and lengths outside the off-stump in the second innings which troubled the Indian batters massively. ALSO READ: Sachin Tendulkar to feature in the 'Never Surrender' Christmas campaign by Sevilla FC "A half-and-half defence (short stride) can always trouble you and if there's a little more movement off the seam then your hands tend to compensate for the lack of footwork. What I also simultaneously noticed was that the Australians bowled very much on off stump -- much, much tighter -- and not outside the off stump whereas they bowled outside the off stump in the first innings," he said. India, under the leadership of Ajinkya Rahane, would like to put the Adelaide Horror in the past and focus on bouncing back into the four-match Test series.

'I felt was missing...': Sachin Tendulkar opines on India’s Adelaide defeat vs Australia

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to hold its 89th Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Ahmedabad on Thursday. The inclusion of two new Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises, discussion on tax exemption demanded by the ICC for global events in India and formation of various cricket committees will be high on the agenda during the AGM.

The BCCI is also set to appoint a new vice president in Rajiv Shukla – who is going to officially takeover after a unanimous decision whereas Brijesh Patel will continue to head the IPL governing council.

Further questions will be raised on BCCI president Sourav Ganguly’s brand endorsements and related allegations of conflict of interest. However, it is to be seen whether the officials would seek an explanation from him on the matter.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/players-will-go-out-new-faces-will-come-in-but-what-about-mr-ravi-shastri-351379" hreflang="en">Players will go out, new faces will come in. But what about Mr Ravi Shastri?</a>

"At this point, the 10-team IPL, if BCCI intends to conduct it in 2021, will be a hurried one given that the tendering process and a mega auction will be difficult to organise in such a short span of time," a senior BCCI official told PTI on the eve of the meeting.

"It is only fair that the approval is taken and the big 94 match tournament is held in 2022," he said.

<h2>Tax exemptions for World T20:</h2>

There's only a week left for the BCCI to meet the ICC's deadline of giving complete assurance that the global body will get full tax exemption for holding the World T20 in October-November or else it will be shifted to the UAE.

While there has been a precedence of exemptions during earlier global events, the current tax laws won't allow an exemption for a sporting event and it will be interesting to see what will be the BCCI's stand on the issue.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sachin-tendulkar-to-feature-in-the-never-surrender-christmas-campaign-by-sevilla-fc-351812" hreflang="en">Sachin Tendulkar to feature in the 'Never Surrender' Christmas campaign by Sevilla FC</a>

<h2>BCCI representative in ICC:</h2>

BCCI secretary Jay Shah will remain India's representative at the ICC on various issues like last year along with Ganguly.

<h2>Cricket in Olympics:</h2>

If BCCI supports cricket at the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028, it might end up losing its autonomy as being a National Sports Federation means coming under the ambit of sports ministry with constant government interventions.

<h2>Various Cricket Committees:</h2>

The BCCI hasn't constituted important cricket sub-committees for the longest time. It is understood a new Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) will be formed which will interview candidates for three new selectors.

Also, the various cricket committees like umpiring committee and the technical committee are also likely to be formed.

(With PTI inputs) 
&nbsp;

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to hold its 89th Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Ahmedabad on Thursday. The inclusion of two new Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises, discussion on tax exemption demanded by the ICC for global events in India and formation of various cricket committees will be high on the agenda during the AGM.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to hold its 89th Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Ahmedabad on Thursday. The inclusion of two new Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises, discussion on tax exemption demanded by the ICC for global events in India and formation of various cricket committees will be high on the agenda during the AGM. The BCCI is also set to appoint a new vice president in Rajiv Shukla – who is going to officially takeover after a unanimous decision whereas Brijesh Patel will continue to head the IPL governing council. Further questions will be raised on BCCI president Sourav Ganguly’s brand endorsements and related allegations of conflict of interest. However, it is to be seen whether the officials would seek an explanation from him on the matter. ALSO READ: Players will go out, new faces will come in. But what about Mr Ravi Shastri? "At this point, the 10-team IPL, if BCCI intends to conduct it in 2021, will be a hurried one given that the tendering process and a mega auction will be difficult to organise in such a short span of time," a senior BCCI official told PTI on the eve of the meeting. "It is only fair that the approval is taken and the big 94 match tournament is held in 2022," he said. Tax exemptions for World T20: There's only a week left for the BCCI to meet the ICC's deadline of giving complete assurance that the global body will get full tax exemption for holding the World T20 in October-November or else it will be shifted to the UAE. While there has been a precedence of exemptions during earlier global events, the current tax laws won't allow an exemption for a sporting event and it will be interesting to see what will be the BCCI's stand on the issue. ALSO READ: Sachin Tendulkar to feature in the 'Never Surrender' Christmas campaign by Sevilla FC BCCI representative in ICC: BCCI secretary Jay Shah will remain India's representative at the ICC on various issues like last year along with Ganguly. Cricket in Olympics: If BCCI supports cricket at the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028, it might end up losing its autonomy as being a National Sports Federation means coming under the ambit of sports ministry with constant government interventions. Various Cricket Committees: The BCCI hasn't constituted important cricket sub-committees for the longest time. It is understood a new Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) will be formed which will interview candidates for three new selectors. Also, the various cricket committees like umpiring committee and the technical committee are also likely to be formed. (With PTI inputs)

Two new IPL teams, tax issues, cricket committees high on agenda in BCCI AGM

Indian captain Virat Kohli jumped a spot in the ICC T20I rankings as he now finds himself at number seven whereas New Zealand opener Tim Seifert gained 24 spots to break into the top 10 of ICC T20I rankings.

Seifert achieved career-best ninth spot after a terrific run in home series against Pakistan whereas Tim Southee’s six wickets in the three-match T20I series have also helped him break into the top 10 of bowlers’ list.

Devon Conway and Glenn Phillips are other New Zealand players to have moved up in the batting rankings.&nbsp;

Whereas for Pakistan, Mohammad Hafeez’s 140 runs including an unbeaten 99 runs in the 2nd T20I, saw him touch the 33rd position – jumping 14 places.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/netizens-congratulate-yuzvendra-chahal-on-his-marriage-with-dhanashree-verma-351831" hreflang="en">Netizens congratulate Yuzvendra Chahal on his marriage with Dhanashree Verma</a>

Pakistan’s Faheem Ashraf moved 22 places to the 13th spot whereas Shaheen Shah Afridi moved 11 spots up in the rankings to achieve career-best 16th spot.&nbsp;

In the ICC Men’s T20I Team Rankings, Pakistan lost three points after losing the T20I series vs New Zealand 2-1 while the Black Caps have gained three. However, their position remained unchanged at fourth and sixth spot respectively.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sachin-tendulkar-to-feature-in-the-never-surrender-christmas-campaign-by-sevilla-fc-351812" hreflang="en">Sachin Tendulkar to feature in the 'Never Surrender' Christmas campaign by Sevilla FC</a>

Both Pakistan and New Zealand will now shift their focus to the two-match Test series, starting from December 16 at the Bay Oval. While New Zealand demolished Pakistan in the T20I series, the visitors will be looking to bounce back in the longest format of the game – without their skipper Babar Azam. &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Indian captain Virat Kohli jumped a spot in the ICC T20I rankings as he now finds himself at number seven whereas New Zealand opener Tim Seifert gained 24 spots to break into the top 10 of ICC T20I rankings.

Indian captain Virat Kohli jumped a spot in the ICC T20I rankings as he now finds himself at number seven whereas New Zealand opener Tim Seifert gained 24 spots to break into the top 10 of ICC T20I rankings. Seifert achieved career-best ninth spot after a terrific run in home series against Pakistan whereas Tim Southee’s six wickets in the three-match T20I series have also helped him break into the top 10 of bowlers’ list. Devon Conway and Glenn Phillips are other New Zealand players to have moved up in the batting rankings. Whereas for Pakistan, Mohammad Hafeez’s 140 runs including an unbeaten 99 runs in the 2nd T20I, saw him touch the 33rd position – jumping 14 places. ALSO READ: Netizens congratulate Yuzvendra Chahal on his marriage with Dhanashree Verma Pakistan’s Faheem Ashraf moved 22 places to the 13th spot whereas Shaheen Shah Afridi moved 11 spots up in the rankings to achieve career-best 16th spot. In the ICC Men’s T20I Team Rankings, Pakistan lost three points after losing the T20I series vs New Zealand 2-1 while the Black Caps have gained three. However, their position remained unchanged at fourth and sixth spot respectively. ALSO READ: Sachin Tendulkar to feature in the 'Never Surrender' Christmas campaign by Sevilla FC Both Pakistan and New Zealand will now shift their focus to the two-match Test series, starting from December 16 at the Bay Oval. While New Zealand demolished Pakistan in the T20I series, the visitors will be looking to bounce back in the longest format of the game – without their skipper Babar Azam.

ICC T20I Rankings: Virat Kohli gains a spot, Tim Seifert breaks into top 10

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