<p>The Premier League has become the world's richest league based on its staggering global appeal, with millions tuning in to watch the best talent from around the globe week by week.</p>

<p>But a change of rules as a result of Brexit means English clubs will not have the same freedom to hoover up the best of European football's young players.</p>

<p>From January 1, a points-based system will be in place, meaning players from the European Union will now need to gain a Governing Body Endorsement (GBE), subjecting them to the same criteria as other overseas players.</p>

<p>Points will be awarded on the basis of the number of international appearances made, as well as club appearances in domestic and continental competitions and the standard of the club and league the player is coming from.</p>

<p>Getting a GBE will not be a problem for the vast majority of the Premier League's big-money arrivals but the changes will have a bigger effect on the recruitment of youth players and further down the football pyramid.</p>

<p>Premier League chief executive Richard Masters sounded confident earlier this month when the English top-flight, the Football Association and the English Football League announced post-Brexit arrangements.</p>

<p>"Continuing to be able to recruit the best players will see the Premier League remain competitive and compelling and the solution will complement our player development philosophy of the best foreign talent alongside the best homegrown players," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The same rules will also apply to managers and coaches based on the level they have previously worked at. For example, under the new criteria, Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer would not have been granted a GBE, having spent most of his coaching career in Norway.</p>

<p>However, players and coaches who do not automatically qualify for a work permit can appeal to a panel of experts for an exemption.</p>

<p>As with much surrounding Brexit, however, the rules will be constantly reviewed.</p>

<h2>- No new Fabregas or Pogba -</h2>

<p>Britain's withdrawal from the EU means Premier League clubs will no longer benefit from an exception to world governing body FIFA's rules on the signing of minors.</p>

<p>FIFA&nbsp;bans all overseas transfers for under-18s&nbsp;but makes an exception for movement within the European Economic Area. That allowed Cesc Fabregas and Paul Pogba to move to England as 16-year-olds in the past but this will now no longer be possible.</p>

<h2>- Connected clubs&nbsp;-</h2>

<p>One way of getting around the new rules is for British-based clubs to have a link to a feeder or associate club in Europe.</p>

<p>Manchester City's network of clubs under the City Football Group (CFG) umbrella is the most high-profile example. CFG has stakes in lower-league sides in Spain, France and Belgium.</p>

<p>Leicester's owners King Power own Belgian club Leuven while Sheffield United's Saudi chief, Prince Abdullah, has an ownership stake in Belgian side Beerschot and is closing in on French Ligue 2 side Chateauroux.</p>

<p>These clubs could be used to 'park' young EU players until they turn 18 and also help build up the requisite number of appearances to obtain a GBE.</p>

<h2>- Boost for British players -</h2>

<p>The Football Association's key objective in coming to an agreement with the Premier League and English Football League was to create more opportunities for young British players.</p>

<p>The number of overseas under-21 players Premier League clubs can sign will be restricted to three in the upcoming January transfer window and thereafter be capped at six per season.</p>

<p>Speaking about the overall agreement, the FA's CEO Mark Bullingham said: "Despite having different starting perspectives on how Brexit should impact football, this is another example of how the football authorities can work effectively together for the greater good of the game."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added: "We will also discuss improvements to the player pathway for the mutual benefit of football clubs and homegrown talent in this country."</p>

<p>The limits on signing young players from overseas will have a particular impact on EFL and Scottish league clubs, where a far higher degree of imports from Europe will not meet the criteria for a GBE.</p>

<p>Celtic manager Neil Lennon said he thought the rules would make a clear difference.</p>

<p>"We're probably looking at the British market more than anything else (for new players)," he said. "I think it's going to be difficult after the end of the year to get players in from the continent."</p>


The Premier League has become the world's richest league based on its staggering global appeal, with millions tuning in to watch the best talent from around the globe week by week.

The Premier League has become the world's richest league based on its staggering global appeal, with millions tuning in to watch the best talent from around the globe week by week. But a change of rules as a result of Brexit means English clubs will not have the same freedom to hoover up the best of European football's young players. From January 1, a points-based system will be in place, meaning players from the European Union will now need to gain a Governing Body Endorsement (GBE), subjecting them to the same criteria as other overseas players. Points will be awarded on the basis of the number of international appearances made, as well as club appearances in domestic and continental competitions and the standard of the club and league the player is coming from. Getting a GBE will not be a problem for the vast majority of the Premier League's big-money arrivals but the changes will have a bigger effect on the recruitment of youth players and further down the football pyramid. Premier League chief executive Richard Masters sounded confident earlier this month when the English top-flight, the Football Association and the English Football League announced post-Brexit arrangements. "Continuing to be able to recruit the best players will see the Premier League remain competitive and compelling and the solution will complement our player development philosophy of the best foreign talent alongside the best homegrown players," he said. The same rules will also apply to managers and coaches based on the level they have previously worked at. For example, under the new criteria, Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer would not have been granted a GBE, having spent most of his coaching career in Norway. However, players and coaches who do not automatically qualify for a work permit can appeal to a panel of experts for an exemption. As with much surrounding Brexit, however, the rules will be constantly reviewed. - No new Fabregas or Pogba - Britain's withdrawal from the EU means Premier League clubs will no longer benefit from an exception to world governing body FIFA's rules on the signing of minors. FIFA bans all overseas transfers for under-18s but makes an exception for movement within the European Economic Area. That allowed Cesc Fabregas and Paul Pogba to move to England as 16-year-olds in the past but this will now no longer be possible. - Connected clubs - One way of getting around the new rules is for British-based clubs to have a link to a feeder or associate club in Europe. Manchester City's network of clubs under the City Football Group (CFG) umbrella is the most high-profile example. CFG has stakes in lower-league sides in Spain, France and Belgium. Leicester's owners King Power own Belgian club Leuven while Sheffield United's Saudi chief, Prince Abdullah, has an ownership stake in Belgian side Beerschot and is closing in on French Ligue 2 side Chateauroux. These clubs could be used to 'park' young EU players until they turn 18 and also help build up the requisite number of appearances to obtain a GBE. - Boost for British players - The Football Association's key objective in coming to an agreement with the Premier League and English Football League was to create more opportunities for young British players. The number of overseas under-21 players Premier League clubs can sign will be restricted to three in the upcoming January transfer window and thereafter be capped at six per season. Speaking about the overall agreement, the FA's CEO Mark Bullingham said: "Despite having different starting perspectives on how Brexit should impact football, this is another example of how the football authorities can work effectively together for the greater good of the game." He added: "We will also discuss improvements to the player pathway for the mutual benefit of football clubs and homegrown talent in this country." The limits on signing young players from overseas will have a particular impact on EFL and Scottish league clubs, where a far higher degree of imports from Europe will not meet the criteria for a GBE. Celtic manager Neil Lennon said he thought the rules would make a clear difference. "We're probably looking at the British market more than anything else (for new players)," he said. "I think it's going to be difficult after the end of the year to get players in from the continent."

How will Brexit rules affect the Premier League?

<p>Sevilla FC has recently relaunched its brand and a campaign which aims to strengthen the positioning of&nbsp;<b>Never Surrender</b>, a message that is undoubtedly part of the club's DNA, as well as its way of understanding and facing life.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The campaign features seven examples of&nbsp;<b>Never Surrender</b>&nbsp;as a key to success, The club wanted to focus on great sportsmen and women who, like Sevilla FC, have done their best without ever giving up in the face of the adversities of 2020. All these cases have filled millions of people with joy and pride, surpassing themselves at every moment and making the impossible come true.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-taking-the-knee-to-joining-protests-athletes-who-contributed-to-black-lives-matter-movement-349554" hreflang="en">From taking the knee to joining protests: Athletes who contributed to 'Black Lives Matter' movement</a></strong></p>

<p><b>SACHIN TENDULKAR</b>, being carried on the shoulders of his teammates after India won the World Cup in 2011, as a thank you from a proud nation. He embodies the passion of an entire country.</p>

<p><b>RAFA NADAL</b>&nbsp;triumphs at Roland Garros, beating all his rivals without dropping a single set. His demands of himself have led him to win this tournament 13 times in 15 years.</p>

<p><b>DESIRÉ VILA</b>&nbsp;overcomes the amputation of her leg and now competes at the highest level. The bravery of a gymnast turned Paralympic athlete.</p>

<p><b>THE SPANISH HANDBALL TEAM</b>, after the disappointment of missing out on the Rio Olympics, won the European Championship. The Spaniards showed so much pride to win the European Gold.</p>

<p><b>CAROLINA MARÍN</b>&nbsp;is international champion again after recovering from her serious injury. Her resilience puts her back on top of the podium.</p>

<p><b>JOAN MIR</b>, by transforming his inexperience into consistency, surprising world champion of the MotoGP. The cheeky driver makes a great comeback with a dream finish.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-nba-to-super-bowl-heres-complete-list-of-winners-in-2020-350549" hreflang="en">From NBA to Super Bowl: Here's complete list of winners in 2020</a></strong></p>

<p><b>SEVILLA FC</b>&nbsp;makes the impossible possible by winning its sixth Europa League. The club once again demonstrates its limitless ambition by winning all six finals it has played. Despite the complications caused by the pandemic, with a three-month hiatus, the team managed to qualify for the Champions League and lift their sixth UEFA Europa League. That is why Sevilla FC, who began the 21st century in the Second Division and today is the king of the UEFA Europa League and the Spanish team with the third-most qualifications for Europe, wants to remember 2020 positively with a spot campaign that shows that, despite the adversities that may arise, with class, effort and courage, great objectives can be achieved.</p>


Sevilla FC has recently relaunched its brand and a campaign which aims to strengthen the positioning of Never Surrender, a message that is undoubtedly part of the club's DNA, as well as its way of understanding and facing life.

Sevilla FC has recently relaunched its brand and a campaign which aims to strengthen the positioning of Never Surrender, a message that is undoubtedly part of the club's DNA, as well as its way of understanding and facing life. The campaign features seven examples of Never Surrender as a key to success, The club wanted to focus on great sportsmen and women who, like Sevilla FC, have done their best without ever giving up in the face of the adversities of 2020. All these cases have filled millions of people with joy and pride, surpassing themselves at every moment and making the impossible come true. ALSO READ: From taking the knee to joining protests: Athletes who contributed to 'Black Lives Matter' movement SACHIN TENDULKAR, being carried on the shoulders of his teammates after India won the World Cup in 2011, as a thank you from a proud nation. He embodies the passion of an entire country. RAFA NADAL triumphs at Roland Garros, beating all his rivals without dropping a single set. His demands of himself have led him to win this tournament 13 times in 15 years. DESIRÉ VILA overcomes the amputation of her leg and now competes at the highest level. The bravery of a gymnast turned Paralympic athlete. THE SPANISH HANDBALL TEAM, after the disappointment of missing out on the Rio Olympics, won the European Championship. The Spaniards showed so much pride to win the European Gold. CAROLINA MARÍN is international champion again after recovering from her serious injury. Her resilience puts her back on top of the podium. JOAN MIR, by transforming his inexperience into consistency, surprising world champion of the MotoGP. The cheeky driver makes a great comeback with a dream finish. ALSO READ: From NBA to Super Bowl: Here's complete list of winners in 2020 SEVILLA FC makes the impossible possible by winning its sixth Europa League. The club once again demonstrates its limitless ambition by winning all six finals it has played. Despite the complications caused by the pandemic, with a three-month hiatus, the team managed to qualify for the Champions League and lift their sixth UEFA Europa League. That is why Sevilla FC, who began the 21st century in the Second Division and today is the king of the UEFA Europa League and the Spanish team with the third-most qualifications for Europe, wants to remember 2020 positively with a spot campaign that shows that, despite the adversities that may arise, with class, effort and courage, great objectives can be achieved.

Sachin Tendulkar to feature in the 'Never Surrender' Christmas campaign by Sevilla FC

<p>The National Basketball Association (NBA) today announced that 107 international players from 41 countries are on opening-night rosters for the 2020-21 season, including a record 17 Canadian players and a record-tying 14 African players. This marks the seventh consecutive season that opening-night rosters feature at least 100 international players. All 30 teams have at least one international player.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In addition to the 107 international players on 2020-21 opening-night rosters, there are 10 international players from a record-tying eight countries on “two-way” contracts, allowing them to play in up to 50 NBA games this season.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For the seventh consecutive year, Canada (17 players) is the most-represented country outside of the U.S., followed by France (nine players), Australia (eight players), Serbia and Germany (six players each).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Washington Wizards have an NBA-high seven international players. The Dallas Mavericks and Denver Nuggets each have six, while the New Orleans Pelicans, Oklahoma City Thunder and Toronto Raptors each have five.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-nba-to-super-bowl-heres-complete-list-of-winners-in-2020-350549" hreflang="en">From NBA to Super Bowl: Here's complete list of winners in 2020</a></strong></p>

<p>The 2020-21 NBA season begins tonight with a doubleheader on TNT as part of Kia NBA Tip-Off 2020. The first game features the Brooklyn Nets hosting the Golden State Warriors at 7 p.m. ET. In the second game, the defending NBA champion Los Angeles Lakers take on the LA Clippers at 10 p.m. ET.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A record 34 players on opening-night rosters participated in Basketball Without Borders (BWB) prior to starting their NBA careers, surpassing the previous record of 30 set in 2019-20. Former BWB campers include Joel Embiid (Philadelphia 76ers; Cameroon; BWB Africa 2011), Jamal Murray (Nuggets; Canada; BWB Global 2015) and Pascal Siakam (Raptors; Cameroon; BWB Africa 2012). BWB is the NBA and FIBA’s global basketball development and community outreach program that has seen 76 former campers drafted into the NBA or signed as free agents since 2001.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-taking-the-knee-to-joining-protests-athletes-who-contributed-to-black-lives-matter-movement-349554" hreflang="en">From taking the knee to joining protests: Athletes who contributed to 'Black Lives Matter' movement</a></strong></p>

<p>In addition to the 107 international players on 2020-21 opening-night rosters, there are 10 international players from a record-tying eight countries on “two-way” contracts, allowing them to play in up to 50 NBA games this season. There are also a number of American players with ties to other countries, including more than 30 players with at least one parent from Africa. Among the American players with ties to other countries are Jordan Clarkson (Utah Jazz; ties to the Philippines), Victor Oladipo (Indiana Pacers; ties to Nigeria), Matisse Thybulle (76ers; ties to Australia and Haiti) and Karl-Anthony Towns (Minnesota Timberwolves; ties to the Dominican Republic).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The records for international players (113) and countries and territories represented (42) were set at the start of the 2016-17 and 2017-18 seasons, respectively.&nbsp;</p>


The National Basketball Association (NBA) today announced that 107 international players from 41 countries are on opening-night rosters for the 2020-21 season, including a record 17 Canadian players and a record-tying 14 African players.

The National Basketball Association (NBA) today announced that 107 international players from 41 countries are on opening-night rosters for the 2020-21 season, including a record 17 Canadian players and a record-tying 14 African players. This marks the seventh consecutive season that opening-night rosters feature at least 100 international players. All 30 teams have at least one international player. In addition to the 107 international players on 2020-21 opening-night rosters, there are 10 international players from a record-tying eight countries on “two-way” contracts, allowing them to play in up to 50 NBA games this season. For the seventh consecutive year, Canada (17 players) is the most-represented country outside of the U.S., followed by France (nine players), Australia (eight players), Serbia and Germany (six players each). The Washington Wizards have an NBA-high seven international players. The Dallas Mavericks and Denver Nuggets each have six, while the New Orleans Pelicans, Oklahoma City Thunder and Toronto Raptors each have five. ALSO READ: From NBA to Super Bowl: Here's complete list of winners in 2020 The 2020-21 NBA season begins tonight with a doubleheader on TNT as part of Kia NBA Tip-Off 2020. The first game features the Brooklyn Nets hosting the Golden State Warriors at 7 p.m. ET. In the second game, the defending NBA champion Los Angeles Lakers take on the LA Clippers at 10 p.m. ET. A record 34 players on opening-night rosters participated in Basketball Without Borders (BWB) prior to starting their NBA careers, surpassing the previous record of 30 set in 2019-20. Former BWB campers include Joel Embiid (Philadelphia 76ers; Cameroon; BWB Africa 2011), Jamal Murray (Nuggets; Canada; BWB Global 2015) and Pascal Siakam (Raptors; Cameroon; BWB Africa 2012). BWB is the NBA and FIBA’s global basketball development and community outreach program that has seen 76 former campers drafted into the NBA or signed as free agents since 2001. ALSO READ: From taking the knee to joining protests: Athletes who contributed to 'Black Lives Matter' movement In addition to the 107 international players on 2020-21 opening-night rosters, there are 10 international players from a record-tying eight countries on “two-way” contracts, allowing them to play in up to 50 NBA games this season. There are also a number of American players with ties to other countries, including more than 30 players with at least one parent from Africa. Among the American players with ties to other countries are Jordan Clarkson (Utah Jazz; ties to the Philippines), Victor Oladipo (Indiana Pacers; ties to Nigeria), Matisse Thybulle (76ers; ties to Australia and Haiti) and Karl-Anthony Towns (Minnesota Timberwolves; ties to the Dominican Republic). The records for international players (113) and countries and territories represented (42) were set at the start of the 2016-17 and 2017-18 seasons, respectively.

NBA rosters feature 107 international players from 41 countries

<p>Ahead of the four-match Test series between India and Australia, all eyes were on the Cheteshwar Pujara, whose batting prowess left Aussie bowlers on their knees last time India toured Down Under in 2018-19. Pujara was the highest run-scorer in the series with 521 runs but the Indian Test specialist didn’t look at his best in Adelaide Test where he managed to score just 43 and a duck.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Australian spin great Nathan Lyon has said that the hosts have more surprise in line for Pujara in the remaining three Tests.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I can't reveal secrets, to be honest with you. But, obviously, Pujara is a world-class batter and he is going to be a big challenge for us for the rest of the series," 33-year-old Lyon said at a virtual press-conference on Wednesday.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gautam-gambhir-gives-his-take-on-team-indias-combination-for-boxing-day-test-vs-australia-351769" hreflang="en">Gautam Gambhir gives his take on Team India's combination for Boxing Day Test vs Australia</a></strong></p>

<p>"We spoke about him (Pujara) in depth before the series started, it was good to see a couple of plans come off in Adelaide, but we have got a couple more things.</p>

<p>Lyon further said that it is always fun to take on the best batsmen in the world with Pujara being one of them.</p>

<p>"So, hopefully, if he does get in, we can put into ploy...it is always fun challenging yourself against the best players in the world and Pujara is definitely one of those guys," added the senior spinner – who is nine wickets shorts of completing 400 wickets in the five-day format.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ishant-expects-bowlers-captain-rahane-to-fill-kohli-void-351748" hreflang="en">Ishant expects 'bowler's captain' Rahane to fill Kohli void</a></strong></p>

<p>After a gritty 43 in the first innings, Pujara was send packing for a duck in the second innings with Indian getting bundled out for 36 – their lowest-ever Test innings score.</p>

<p>Without Virat Kohli, the responsibility will be on Pujara and stand-in skipper Ajinkya Rahane to take the majority of load of scoring runs against Australia. India will be without the likes of Kohli and Mohammed Shami (injured) for the remainder of the Test series vs Australia as massive task awaits for the visitors.</p>


Ahead of the four-match Test series between India and Australia, all eyes were on the Cheteshwar Pujara, whose batting prowess left Aussie bowlers on their knees last time India toured Down Under in 2018-19.

Ahead of the four-match Test series between India and Australia, all eyes were on the Cheteshwar Pujara, whose batting prowess left Aussie bowlers on their knees last time India toured Down Under in 2018-19. Pujara was the highest run-scorer in the series with 521 runs but the Indian Test specialist didn’t look at his best in Adelaide Test where he managed to score just 43 and a duck. Australian spin great Nathan Lyon has said that the hosts have more surprise in line for Pujara in the remaining three Tests. "I can't reveal secrets, to be honest with you. But, obviously, Pujara is a world-class batter and he is going to be a big challenge for us for the rest of the series," 33-year-old Lyon said at a virtual press-conference on Wednesday. ALSO READ: Gautam Gambhir gives his take on Team India's combination for Boxing Day Test vs Australia "We spoke about him (Pujara) in depth before the series started, it was good to see a couple of plans come off in Adelaide, but we have got a couple more things. Lyon further said that it is always fun to take on the best batsmen in the world with Pujara being one of them. "So, hopefully, if he does get in, we can put into ploy...it is always fun challenging yourself against the best players in the world and Pujara is definitely one of those guys," added the senior spinner – who is nine wickets shorts of completing 400 wickets in the five-day format. ALSO READ: Ishant expects 'bowler's captain' Rahane to fill Kohli void After a gritty 43 in the first innings, Pujara was send packing for a duck in the second innings with Indian getting bundled out for 36 – their lowest-ever Test innings score. Without Virat Kohli, the responsibility will be on Pujara and stand-in skipper Ajinkya Rahane to take the majority of load of scoring runs against Australia. India will be without the likes of Kohli and Mohammed Shami (injured) for the remainder of the Test series vs Australia as massive task awaits for the visitors.

Nathan Lyon fires warning for Cheteshwar Pujara ahead of Boxing Day Test

<p>Former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir has called Ajinkya Rahane to take up Virat Kohli’s no. four spot in the batting order for the remainder of the four-match Test series against Australia as the southpaw said that the stand-in skipper needs to lead from the front in the Boxing Day Test.</p>

<p>Gambhir is also in support of India bringing in KL Rahul at number five, which means Pujara at three and Rahane at four for India in the batting order at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground.</p>

<p>The World Cup-winning cricketer also opined that Prithvi Shaw is “low on confidence” and Shubman Gill should take his place in the Boxing Day Test, starting December 26.</p>

<p><strong>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></strong></p>

<p>It is being heavily reported that India are looking to make as many as four changes in the squad with Gill replacing Shaw, Rishabh Pant taking Wriddhiman Saha’s place. Mohammed Siraj is set to replace Mohammed Shami with KL Rahul coming in for Virat Kohli. There are chances that Ravindra Jadeja may start ahead of Hanuma Vihari.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I think he is low on confidence (Prithvi Shaw), that's why I want to see Shubman Gill at the top with Mayank Agarwal. I want to see Cheteshwar Pujara on No: 3, and Ajinkya Rahane on No.4 and not at the 5th spot," Gambhir told Star Sports Cricket Connected.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-have-opened-up-some-scars-australias-joe-burns-wants-hosts-to-continue-onslaught-vs-india-351337" hreflang="en">We have opened up some scars: Australia's Joe Burns wants hosts to continue onslaught vs India</a></strong></p>

<p>"If Rahane is the captain, he has to lead from the front - so, in place of Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane should take the 4th spot. KL Rahul should bat at No. 5, Rishabh Pant at 6, Ravindra Jadeja at 7, Ashwin at 8 and then 3 seamers - I want the team to get in with 5 bowlers."</p>

<p>India have already started practising for the Boxing Day Test with the visitors hitting the nets on Wednesday at the MCG.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir has called Ajinkya Rahane to take up Virat Kohli’s no. four spot in the batting order for the remainder of the four-match Test series against Australia as the southpaw said that the stand-in skipper needs to lead from the front in the Boxing Day Test.

Former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir has called Ajinkya Rahane to take up Virat Kohli’s no. four spot in the batting order for the remainder of the four-match Test series against Australia as the southpaw said that the stand-in skipper needs to lead from the front in the Boxing Day Test. Gambhir is also in support of India bringing in KL Rahul at number five, which means Pujara at three and Rahane at four for India in the batting order at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground. The World Cup-winning cricketer also opined that Prithvi Shaw is “low on confidence” and Shubman Gill should take his place in the Boxing Day Test, starting December 26. ALSO READ: Players will go out, new faces will come in. But what about Mr Ravi Shastri? It is being heavily reported that India are looking to make as many as four changes in the squad with Gill replacing Shaw, Rishabh Pant taking Wriddhiman Saha’s place. Mohammed Siraj is set to replace Mohammed Shami with KL Rahul coming in for Virat Kohli. There are chances that Ravindra Jadeja may start ahead of Hanuma Vihari. "I think he is low on confidence (Prithvi Shaw), that's why I want to see Shubman Gill at the top with Mayank Agarwal. I want to see Cheteshwar Pujara on No: 3, and Ajinkya Rahane on No.4 and not at the 5th spot," Gambhir told Star Sports Cricket Connected. ALSO READ: We have opened up some scars: Australia's Joe Burns wants hosts to continue onslaught vs India "If Rahane is the captain, he has to lead from the front - so, in place of Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane should take the 4th spot. KL Rahul should bat at No. 5, Rishabh Pant at 6, Ravindra Jadeja at 7, Ashwin at 8 and then 3 seamers - I want the team to get in with 5 bowlers." India have already started practising for the Boxing Day Test with the visitors hitting the nets on Wednesday at the MCG.

Gautam Gambhir gives his take on Team India's combination for Boxing Day Test vs Australia

<p>Barcelona megastar Lionel Messi continues to shatter the record books and achieved an iconic milestone on Tuesday as he surpassed Pele’s record of scoring most goals for a single club. Messi helped Barcelona win 3-0 against Valladolid in La Liga and also surpassed the landmark in his trophy-laden career.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Messi scored his 664th goal for the La Liga giants on Tuesday and surpassed Pele’s record of 643 goals for Brazilian club Santos from 1956 to 1974. After surpassing Pele’s record, Messi took to social media platform Instagram to share a heartfelt post as he thanked his family, teammates and his well-wishers.</p>

<p>"When I started playing football, I never thought I would break any records, especially the one I broke today, which was Pele's. I can only thank everyone who's helped me all these years, my teammates, my family, my friends, and everyone who supports me every day," Messi wrote in an Instagram post on Wednesday.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/messi-overtakes-peles-goal-record-as-atletico-cement-liga-lead-351743" hreflang="en">Messi overtakes Pele's goal record as Atletico cement Liga lead</a></strong></p>

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CJHmB6Vl5T9/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Leo Messi (@leomessi)</a></p>
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<p>While Messi scored 644 goals in 749 matches, Pele was far quicker in getting to the milestone as he took just 655 matches for Santon to score 643 goals. Messi netted his first Barca goal in 2015 and has gone on to play 17 seasons with the Catalan giants. The Argentine maestro has won 10 La Liga titles and four UEFA Champions League trophies with Barcelona.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-nba-to-super-bowl-heres-complete-list-of-winners-in-2020-350549" hreflang="en">From NBA to Super Bowl: Here's complete list of winners in 2020</a></strong></p>

<p>Recently when Messi equalised Pele’s record, the Brazilian lavished praises on the Barcelona star.</p>

<p>"Congratulations on your historical record, Lionel. But above all, congratulations on your beautiful career at Barcelona. Stories like ours, of loving the same club for so long, unfortunately will be ever rarer in football. I admire you a lot," Pele wrote in a social media post.</p>

<p><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Barcelona megastar Lionel Messi continues to shatter the record books and achieved an iconic milestone on Tuesday as he surpassed Pele’s record of scoring most goals for a single club.

Barcelona megastar Lionel Messi continues to shatter the record books and achieved an iconic milestone on Tuesday as he surpassed Pele’s record of scoring most goals for a single club. Messi helped Barcelona win 3-0 against Valladolid in La Liga and also surpassed the landmark in his trophy-laden career. Messi scored his 664th goal for the La Liga giants on Tuesday and surpassed Pele’s record of 643 goals for Brazilian club Santos from 1956 to 1974. After surpassing Pele’s record, Messi took to social media platform Instagram to share a heartfelt post as he thanked his family, teammates and his well-wishers. "When I started playing football, I never thought I would break any records, especially the one I broke today, which was Pele's. I can only thank everyone who's helped me all these years, my teammates, my family, my friends, and everyone who supports me every day," Messi wrote in an Instagram post on Wednesday. ALSO READ: Messi overtakes Pele's goal record as Atletico cement Liga lead View this post on Instagram A post shared by Leo Messi (@leomessi) × While Messi scored 644 goals in 749 matches, Pele was far quicker in getting to the milestone as he took just 655 matches for Santon to score 643 goals. Messi netted his first Barca goal in 2015 and has gone on to play 17 seasons with the Catalan giants. The Argentine maestro has won 10 La Liga titles and four UEFA Champions League trophies with Barcelona. ALSO READ: From NBA to Super Bowl: Here's complete list of winners in 2020 Recently when Messi equalised Pele’s record, the Brazilian lavished praises on the Barcelona star. "Congratulations on your historical record, Lionel. But above all, congratulations on your beautiful career at Barcelona. Stories like ours, of loving the same club for so long, unfortunately will be ever rarer in football. I admire you a lot," Pele wrote in a social media post.

Lionel Messi posts heartfelt message after breaking Pele's all-time goalscoring record

<p>Former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina along with singer Guru Randhawa were arrested in Mumbai after a raid at the Dragonfly club for breaching COVID-19 norms. Both Raina and Randhawa were released on bail.</p>

<p>A total of 34 people were arrested in the raid at Mumbai’s Dragonfly club including seven staff members, according to India Today.&nbsp;They were booked for violating coronavirus protocols.</p>

<p>A senior officer of the Sahar police station said singer Randhawa and cricketer Raina were among the 34 arrested and booked for breaching the norms before being released on bail.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-taking-the-knee-to-joining-protests-athletes-who-contributed-to-black-lives-matter-movement-349554" hreflang="en">From taking the knee to joining protests: Athletes who contributed to 'Black Lives Matter' movement</a></strong></p>

<p>As many as 34 including the likes of Raina and Randhawa were booked under Section 188 (Disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant), 269 (whoever unlawfully or negligently does any act which is, and which he knows or has reason to believe to be, likely to spread the infection of any disease dangerous to life), 34 (Acts done by several persons in furtherance of common intention) of IPC and provisions of NMDA.</p>

<p>The raid and arrests were carried out at the Dragonfly club for keeping the premises open beyond permissible time limit and not following the COVID-19 protocols.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-arjun-rampal-gets-summoned-by-ncb-for-the-second-time-351494" hreflang="en">Arjun Rampal gets summoned by NCB for the second time</a></strong></p>

<p>On Monday, Maharashtra government had announced night curfew in municipal corporation areas as steps to curb COVID-19 amid concerns surrounding a new coronavirus variant in the UK.</p>

<p>Ahead of the New Year festive week, the Maharashtra government has already announced a series of restriction on public activity from December 22 to January 5.</p>


Former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina along with singer Guru Randhawa were arrested in Mumbai after a raid at the Dragonfly club for breaching COVID-19 norms. Both Raina and Randhawa were released on bail.

Former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina along with singer Guru Randhawa were arrested in Mumbai after a raid at the Dragonfly club for breaching COVID-19 norms. Both Raina and Randhawa were released on bail. A total of 34 people were arrested in the raid at Mumbai’s Dragonfly club including seven staff members, according to India Today. They were booked for violating coronavirus protocols. A senior officer of the Sahar police station said singer Randhawa and cricketer Raina were among the 34 arrested and booked for breaching the norms before being released on bail. ALSO READ: From taking the knee to joining protests: Athletes who contributed to 'Black Lives Matter' movement As many as 34 including the likes of Raina and Randhawa were booked under Section 188 (Disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant), 269 (whoever unlawfully or negligently does any act which is, and which he knows or has reason to believe to be, likely to spread the infection of any disease dangerous to life), 34 (Acts done by several persons in furtherance of common intention) of IPC and provisions of NMDA. The raid and arrests were carried out at the Dragonfly club for keeping the premises open beyond permissible time limit and not following the COVID-19 protocols. ALSO READ: Arjun Rampal gets summoned by NCB for the second time On Monday, Maharashtra government had announced night curfew in municipal corporation areas as steps to curb COVID-19 amid concerns surrounding a new coronavirus variant in the UK. Ahead of the New Year festive week, the Maharashtra government has already announced a series of restriction on public activity from December 22 to January 5.

Suresh Raina, Guru Randhawa arrested and booked in raid at Mumbai club

<p>In what comes as a huge blow to Indian cricket team, pacer Mohammed Shami, whose bowling hand was fractured during the third day of the Adelaide Test, has been advised six weeks of rest and will be flying back to India on Wednesday.</p>

<p>Shami will have to undergo a brief period of quarantine in India. The 30-year-old was hit by a bouncer from Aussie pacer Pat Cummins and couldn’t pick the bat in pain. However, in the latest development, Shami will not be available for the remainder of the series due to fractured hand and has been advised six weeks of rest.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Shami has been advised six weeks of rest and he will be leaving for India on Wednesday," a source told IANS.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>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></strong></p>

<p>Shami is likely to be fit by the end of January after undergoing six-week rest period and is expected to be available for India’s full-fledged home series against England, scheduled to start from February 4.</p>

<p>Shami’s injury comes at a wrong time for India with the visitors already missing skipper Virat Kohli from second Test onwards. Shami was one of the heroes for India when they visited Down Under in 2018-19 and ended up clinching the historic series 2-1.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Mohammed Siraj or Navdeep Saini are set to replace Shami in the playing XI for the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-hope-mark-waugh-predicts-australia-to-whitewash-india-in-border-gavaskar-trophy-351627" hreflang="en">'No hope': Mark Waugh predicts Australia to whitewash India in Border-Gavaskar Trophy</a></strong></p>

<p>A couple of more changes are expected in the line-up with Shubman Gill and KL Rahul likely to be slotted in for Virat Kohli and Prithvi Shaw and Rishabh Pant set to replace Wriddhiman Saha. Ravindra Jadeja is also in contention to replace Hanuma Vihar in the playing XI, as per reports.</p>


In what comes as a huge blow to Indian cricket team, pacer Mohammed Shami, whose bowling hand was fractured during the third day of the Adelaide Test, has been advised six weeks of rest and will be flying back to India on Wednesday.

In what comes as a huge blow to Indian cricket team, pacer Mohammed Shami, whose bowling hand was fractured during the third day of the Adelaide Test, has been advised six weeks of rest and will be flying back to India on Wednesday. Shami will have to undergo a brief period of quarantine in India. The 30-year-old was hit by a bouncer from Aussie pacer Pat Cummins and couldn’t pick the bat in pain. However, in the latest development, Shami will not be available for the remainder of the series due to fractured hand and has been advised six weeks of rest. "Shami has been advised six weeks of rest and he will be leaving for India on Wednesday," a source told IANS. ALSO READ: Players will go out, new faces will come in. But what about Mr Ravi Shastri? Shami is likely to be fit by the end of January after undergoing six-week rest period and is expected to be available for India’s full-fledged home series against England, scheduled to start from February 4. Shami’s injury comes at a wrong time for India with the visitors already missing skipper Virat Kohli from second Test onwards. Shami was one of the heroes for India when they visited Down Under in 2018-19 and ended up clinching the historic series 2-1. Meanwhile, Mohammed Siraj or Navdeep Saini are set to replace Shami in the playing XI for the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. ALSO READ: 'No hope': Mark Waugh predicts Australia to whitewash India in Border-Gavaskar Trophy A couple of more changes are expected in the line-up with Shubman Gill and KL Rahul likely to be slotted in for Virat Kohli and Prithvi Shaw and Rishabh Pant set to replace Wriddhiman Saha. Ravindra Jadeja is also in contention to replace Hanuma Vihar in the playing XI, as per reports.

Mohammed Shami advised 6 weeks' rest, to fly back to India on Wednesday

<p>India, after humiliation in Adelaide, will move to Melbourne for the second Test against Australia in a bid to get back into the four-match Test series. India will be without skipper Virat Kohli (paternity leave) and Mohammed Shami (injury) with a massive task looming ahead for the Ajinkya Rahane-led Team India. Ahead of the Boxing Day Test, former Australian batsman&nbsp;Mark Waugh has said that there is no way India would be able to avoid a whitewash in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.</p>

<p>India were dismantled for just 36 runs in the second innings as Australia won the Adelaide Test comfortably by eight wickets. With many predicting India might bounce back in the series, Waugh has said there is ‘no hope’ for the Indian team.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-need-to-move-rohit-sharma-from-sydney-he-is-safe-bcci-official-351608" hreflang="en">No need to move Rohit Sharma from Sydney, he is safe: BCCI official</a></strong></p>

<p>“I thought Adelaide was the Test that they could win on paper and with Virat Kohli here for just the one Test. I thought the conditions would suit them.</p>

<p>“I just can’t see how they can bounce back (after) Australia whitewashed them on the third day.</p>

<p>“So ‘no’ is the answer four-nil to Australia," Mark Waugh told on Fox Cricket.</p>

<p>Former Aussie wicket-keeper Brad Haddin also backed Waugh’s statement as he said he is not sure whether India would be able to get back the energy on and off the field after the departure of Virat Kohli.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>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></strong></p>

<p>“If they are going to get back into the game, what I want to know is where they’re going to get their energy from,” Haddin said on Fox Cricket. “Virat Kohli is gone now and a lot of the energy comes off the back of what he does. He’s a world-class player, he’s their leader.</p>

<p>“I would have a look at bringing someone in like Rohit Sharma. If he comes out of quarantine and he’s in good knick and he’s fit enough to play, I’d put him straight in because I think they need a senior player like that to take the anxiety out of everything and just get everyone thinking about cricket again.”</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Rohit Sharma is likely to play in the third Test, scheduled to be played in Sydney from January 7, upon completing his 14-day mandatory quarantine phase.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


India, after humiliation in Adelaide, will move to Melbourne for the second Test against Australia in a bid to get back into the four-match Test series. India will be without skipper Virat Kohli (paternity leave) and Mohammed Shami (injury) with a massive task looming ahead for the Ajinkya Rahane-led Team India.

India, after humiliation in Adelaide, will move to Melbourne for the second Test against Australia in a bid to get back into the four-match Test series. India will be without skipper Virat Kohli (paternity leave) and Mohammed Shami (injury) with a massive task looming ahead for the Ajinkya Rahane-led Team India. Ahead of the Boxing Day Test, former Australian batsman Mark Waugh has said that there is no way India would be able to avoid a whitewash in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. India were dismantled for just 36 runs in the second innings as Australia won the Adelaide Test comfortably by eight wickets. With many predicting India might bounce back in the series, Waugh has said there is ‘no hope’ for the Indian team. ALSO READ: No need to move Rohit Sharma from Sydney, he is safe: BCCI official “I thought Adelaide was the Test that they could win on paper and with Virat Kohli here for just the one Test. I thought the conditions would suit them. “I just can’t see how they can bounce back (after) Australia whitewashed them on the third day. “So ‘no’ is the answer four-nil to Australia," Mark Waugh told on Fox Cricket. Former Aussie wicket-keeper Brad Haddin also backed Waugh’s statement as he said he is not sure whether India would be able to get back the energy on and off the field after the departure of Virat Kohli. ALSO READ: Players will go out, new faces will come in. But what about Mr Ravi Shastri? “If they are going to get back into the game, what I want to know is where they’re going to get their energy from,” Haddin said on Fox Cricket. “Virat Kohli is gone now and a lot of the energy comes off the back of what he does. He’s a world-class player, he’s their leader. “I would have a look at bringing someone in like Rohit Sharma. If he comes out of quarantine and he’s in good knick and he’s fit enough to play, I’d put him straight in because I think they need a senior player like that to take the anxiety out of everything and just get everyone thinking about cricket again.” Meanwhile, Rohit Sharma is likely to play in the third Test, scheduled to be played in Sydney from January 7, upon completing his 14-day mandatory quarantine phase.

'No hope': Mark Waugh predicts Australia to whitewash India in Border-Gavaskar Trophy

<p>FIFA on Tuesday announced that it has filed a criminal complaint against former president Sepp Blatter over the finances of its loss-making museum in Zurich. FIFA, in a statement, said that a criminal complaint has been lodged against Blatter with Zurich’s cantonal prosecutor as evidence of suspected criminal mismanagement by FIFA’s former management and companies appointed by them.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement, FIFA said it had "lodged a criminal complaint with Zurich's cantonal prosecutor as evidence of suspected criminal mismanagement by FIFA's former management and companies appointed by them in relation to the (museum) has surfaced."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Blatter's lawyer, Lorenz Erni, told AFP "the accusations are unfounded" and denied wrongdoing.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nobby-stiles-brain-injury-caused-by-heading-ball-doctor-says-351420" hreflang="en">Nobby Stiles' brain injury caused by heading ball, doctor says</a></strong></p>

<p>As per FIFA, the museum generated a bill of 500 million Swiss francs (462 million euros) that instead "could and should have been channeled into the development of global football".</p>

<p>"We came to the conclusion that we had no choice other than to report the case to state prosecutors, not least because the current management of FIFA also has fiduciary responsibilities to the organisation and we intend to live up to them, even if those before us dismally failed to," said FIFA deputy secretary general Alasdair Bell.</p>

<p>The Zurich-based museum, which is a marquee Blatter project, was inaugurated in February 2016 by current FIFA president Gianni Infantino after he was elected as Blatter’s successor.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/fourth-stadium-for-fifa-world-cup-qatar-2022-unveiled-351009" hreflang="en">Fourth stadium for FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 unveiled</a></strong></p>

<p>Blatter was suspended from football for six years over a two million Swiss franc payment to then UEFA boss Michel Platini.</p>

<p>FIFA went on to invest 140 million Swiss frans ($138.6 million) in the museum, which is spread over three floors. However, it lost $50 million in its inaugural year of operating and attracted an average of 11,000 visitors a month – half the target of what Blatter had anticipated.</p>

<p>(With AFP inputs)</p>


FIFA on Tuesday announced that it has filed a criminal complaint against former president Sepp Blatter over the finances of its loss-making museum in Zurich. FIFA, in a statement, said that a criminal complaint has been lodged against Blatter with Zurich’s cantonal prosecutor as evidence of suspected criminal mismanagement by FIFA’s former management and companies appointed by them.

FIFA on Tuesday announced that it has filed a criminal complaint against former president Sepp Blatter over the finances of its loss-making museum in Zurich. FIFA, in a statement, said that a criminal complaint has been lodged against Blatter with Zurich’s cantonal prosecutor as evidence of suspected criminal mismanagement by FIFA’s former management and companies appointed by them. In a statement, FIFA said it had "lodged a criminal complaint with Zurich's cantonal prosecutor as evidence of suspected criminal mismanagement by FIFA's former management and companies appointed by them in relation to the (museum) has surfaced." Blatter's lawyer, Lorenz Erni, told AFP "the accusations are unfounded" and denied wrongdoing. ALSO READ: Nobby Stiles' brain injury caused by heading ball, doctor says As per FIFA, the museum generated a bill of 500 million Swiss francs (462 million euros) that instead "could and should have been channeled into the development of global football". "We came to the conclusion that we had no choice other than to report the case to state prosecutors, not least because the current management of FIFA also has fiduciary responsibilities to the organisation and we intend to live up to them, even if those before us dismally failed to," said FIFA deputy secretary general Alasdair Bell. The Zurich-based museum, which is a marquee Blatter project, was inaugurated in February 2016 by current FIFA president Gianni Infantino after he was elected as Blatter’s successor. ALSO READ: Fourth stadium for FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 unveiled Blatter was suspended from football for six years over a two million Swiss franc payment to then UEFA boss Michel Platini. FIFA went on to invest 140 million Swiss frans ($138.6 million) in the museum, which is spread over three floors. However, it lost $50 million in its inaugural year of operating and attracted an average of 11,000 visitors a month – half the target of what Blatter had anticipated. (With AFP inputs)

FIFA lodges criminal complaint against Sepp Blatter over loss-making museum

<p>The latest outbreak of COVID-19 cases in Sydney has left everyone concerned over the fate of the third Test between India and Australia at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground, scheduled to start from January 7. While there are reports that the Melbourne Cricket Ground might host the second and third Test after the latest cluster in Sydney, there are concerns surrounding the safety of Indian opener Rohit Sharma, who is undergoing quarantine in Sydney.</p>

<p>However, a BCCI official has confirmed that Rohit will continue to undergo quarantine in Sydney and the Indian cricket board and the team management is&nbsp;in constant touch with the ‘Hitman’.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He doesn't need to move from Sydney. He is safe and is in a bio-secure environment undergoing quarantine. While he is alone in his room, the Indian board as well as the team management is constantly in touch with him. If there was any emergency or if we felt that he needed to get out of Sydney, we would. But for now, he is completely safe there," the BCCI official told ANI.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/suresh-raina-releases-statement-after-getting-booked-in-mumbai-351599" hreflang="en">Suresh Raina releases statement after getting booked in Mumbai</a></strong></p>

<p>When asked about the endurance programme which the physio handed over to Rohit when he left for Australia following the completion of his rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy, the official said:</p>

<p>"He is being monitored by the physios and he is doing his regular endurance work in his room. It is all about keeping fit and ready for action when it comes to hitting the ground running."</p>

<p>Cricket Australia on Sunday stated the Sydney Test is still on track despite the fresh coronavirus cluster in Sydney. However, there are reports that the third Test may be hosted by Melbourne along with the Boxing Day Test.</p>

<p><strong>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></strong></p>

<p>"The third Test is more than two-and-a-half weeks away, which provides us with time to assess the evolving public health situation on the northern beaches of Sydney. We have made no changes to our schedule and our preference remains to play the match at the Sydney Cricket Ground," Nick Hockley, Cricket Australia's Interim CEO said in an official statement.</p>

<p>"Cricket Australia has developed a solid track record of delivery throughout this most challenging of summers and will continue to make appropriate and proportionate decisions in consultation with our biosecurity team, governments, State &amp; Territory Associations, the Australian Cricketers' Association, our partners and venues," he added.</p>


The latest outbreak of COVID-19 cases in Sydney has left everyone concerned over the fate of the third Test between India and Australia at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground, scheduled to start from January 7.

The latest outbreak of COVID-19 cases in Sydney has left everyone concerned over the fate of the third Test between India and Australia at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground, scheduled to start from January 7. While there are reports that the Melbourne Cricket Ground might host the second and third Test after the latest cluster in Sydney, there are concerns surrounding the safety of Indian opener Rohit Sharma, who is undergoing quarantine in Sydney. However, a BCCI official has confirmed that Rohit will continue to undergo quarantine in Sydney and the Indian cricket board and the team management is in constant touch with the ‘Hitman’. "He doesn't need to move from Sydney. He is safe and is in a bio-secure environment undergoing quarantine. While he is alone in his room, the Indian board as well as the team management is constantly in touch with him. If there was any emergency or if we felt that he needed to get out of Sydney, we would. But for now, he is completely safe there," the BCCI official told ANI. ALSO READ: Suresh Raina releases statement after getting booked in Mumbai When asked about the endurance programme which the physio handed over to Rohit when he left for Australia following the completion of his rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy, the official said: "He is being monitored by the physios and he is doing his regular endurance work in his room. It is all about keeping fit and ready for action when it comes to hitting the ground running." Cricket Australia on Sunday stated the Sydney Test is still on track despite the fresh coronavirus cluster in Sydney. However, there are reports that the third Test may be hosted by Melbourne along with the Boxing Day Test. ALSO READ: Players will go out, new faces will come in. But what about Mr Ravi Shastri? "The third Test is more than two-and-a-half weeks away, which provides us with time to assess the evolving public health situation on the northern beaches of Sydney. We have made no changes to our schedule and our preference remains to play the match at the Sydney Cricket Ground," Nick Hockley, Cricket Australia's Interim CEO said in an official statement. "Cricket Australia has developed a solid track record of delivery throughout this most challenging of summers and will continue to make appropriate and proportionate decisions in consultation with our biosecurity team, governments, State & Territory Associations, the Australian Cricketers' Association, our partners and venues," he added.

No need to move Rohit Sharma from Sydney, he is safe: BCCI official

<p>Former Indian cricketer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/suresh-raina-guru-randhawa-arrested-and-booked-in-raid-at-mumbai-club-351548">Suresh Raina was arrested in Mumbai after a raid at the Dragonfly club</a> for breaching COVID-19 norms. Raina among 34 others was arrested and booked for violating COVID-19 protocols but was released on bail. Now, Raina has released a statement following the incident as his management team said that the former Indian cricketer was invited for a quick dinner post a shoot in Mumbai after which he was scheduled to board a flight to Delhi.</p>

<p>The statement adds that Raina was unaware of the local timings and protocols and immediately complied with the procedures laid out by the authorities, once pointed out. It further reads that Raina regrets the unfortunate and unintentional incident and holds the rules and laws laid out by the government bodies with the highest regard.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Statement from Suresh Raina's management:</h2>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Statement from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SureshRaina?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SureshRaina</a> management following the incident last night in Mumbai. <a href="https://t.co/wjORTxBeii">pic.twitter.com/wjORTxBeii</a></p>
— Subhayan Chakraborty (@CricSubhayan) <a href="https://twitter.com/CricSubhayan/status/1341339103720194049?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>A senior officer of the Sahar police station said that singer Guru Randhawa and cricketer Suresh Raina were among the 34 arrested booked for breaching COVID-19 norms before being released on bail.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealand-vs-pakistan-3rd-t20i-halted-due-to-sun-351578" hreflang="en">New Zealand vs Pakistan 3rd T20I halted due to sun!</a></strong></p>

<p>As many as 34 including the likes of Raina and Randhawa were booked under Section 188 (Disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant), 269 (whoever unlawfully or negligently does any act which is, and which he knows or has reason to believe to be, likely to spread the infection of any disease dangerous to life), 34 (Acts done by several persons in furtherance of common intention) of IPC and provisions of NMDA.</p>

<p>The raid was conducted at the Dragonfly club for keeping the venue open beyond time limit and not following the coronavirus protocols.</p>

<p><strong>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></strong></p>

<p>Ahead of the New Year festive week, the Maharashtra government has already announced a series of restriction on public activity from December 22 to January 5.</p>


Former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina was arrested in Mumbai after a raid at the Dragonfly club for breaching COVID-19 norms. Raina among 34 others was arrested and booked for violating COVID-19 protocols but was released on bail.

Former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina was arrested in Mumbai after a raid at the Dragonfly club for breaching COVID-19 norms. Raina among 34 others was arrested and booked for violating COVID-19 protocols but was released on bail. Now, Raina has released a statement following the incident as his management team said that the former Indian cricketer was invited for a quick dinner post a shoot in Mumbai after which he was scheduled to board a flight to Delhi. The statement adds that Raina was unaware of the local timings and protocols and immediately complied with the procedures laid out by the authorities, once pointed out. It further reads that Raina regrets the unfortunate and unintentional incident and holds the rules and laws laid out by the government bodies with the highest regard. Statement from Suresh Raina's management: Statement from #SureshRaina management following the incident last night in Mumbai. pic.twitter.com/wjORTxBeii — Subhayan Chakraborty (@CricSubhayan) December 22, 2020 × A senior officer of the Sahar police station said that singer Guru Randhawa and cricketer Suresh Raina were among the 34 arrested booked for breaching COVID-19 norms before being released on bail. ALSO READ: New Zealand vs Pakistan 3rd T20I halted due to sun! As many as 34 including the likes of Raina and Randhawa were booked under Section 188 (Disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant), 269 (whoever unlawfully or negligently does any act which is, and which he knows or has reason to believe to be, likely to spread the infection of any disease dangerous to life), 34 (Acts done by several persons in furtherance of common intention) of IPC and provisions of NMDA. The raid was conducted at the Dragonfly club for keeping the venue open beyond time limit and not following the coronavirus protocols. ALSO READ: Players will go out, new faces will come in. But what about Mr Ravi Shastri? Ahead of the New Year festive week, the Maharashtra government has already announced a series of restriction on public activity from December 22 to January 5.

Suresh Raina releases statement after getting booked in Mumbai

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