<p>India on Wednesday joined a five-nation race to host the 2027 Asian Cup, the continent's biggest football tournament, as it steps up efforts to secure international sporting recognition.</p>

<p>Saudi Arabia and Qatar have already officially entered the fray and an All India Football Federation (AIFF) spokesman said the country's documents would be sent to the Asian Football Confederation this week.</p>

<p>Iran and Uzbekistan have also said they will bid.</p>

<p>India, once called a "sleeping giant" of football by former FIFA president Sepp Blatter, has stepped up its interest in hosting international events in recent years.</p>

<p>It put on the 2017 under-17 men's World Cup and will host the 2022 women's Asian Cup and&nbsp;the 2021 under-17 women's World Cup. India is also considering a bid for the 2032 Olympics.</p>

<p>AIFF president Praful Patel said the Asian Cup bid would further the country's reputation as an emerging football nation.</p>

<p>"We look at it positively, we look at it aggressively. I have no doubt in my mind that India as a footballing nation by 2027 should be ready to not only host it but to participate in it meaningfully," Patel told reporters.</p>

<p>Sports minister Kiren Rijiju said hosting the Asian Cup would be "a huge milestone" for the cricket-mad country of 1.3 billion people.</p>

<p>India's men are currently ranked 104th in FIFA's world rankings but the launch of the Indian Super League has brought increased international attention to the country.</p>


India on Wednesday joined a five-nation race to host the 2027 Asian Cup, the continent's biggest football tournament, as it steps up efforts to secure international sporting recognition.

India on Wednesday joined a five-nation race to host the 2027 Asian Cup, the continent's biggest football tournament, as it steps up efforts to secure international sporting recognition. Saudi Arabia and Qatar have already officially entered the fray and an All India Football Federation (AIFF) spokesman said the country's documents would be sent to the Asian Football Confederation this week. Iran and Uzbekistan have also said they will bid. India, once called a "sleeping giant" of football by former FIFA president Sepp Blatter, has stepped up its interest in hosting international events in recent years. It put on the 2017 under-17 men's World Cup and will host the 2022 women's Asian Cup and the 2021 under-17 women's World Cup. India is also considering a bid for the 2032 Olympics. AIFF president Praful Patel said the Asian Cup bid would further the country's reputation as an emerging football nation. "We look at it positively, we look at it aggressively. I have no doubt in my mind that India as a footballing nation by 2027 should be ready to not only host it but to participate in it meaningfully," Patel told reporters. Sports minister Kiren Rijiju said hosting the Asian Cup would be "a huge milestone" for the cricket-mad country of 1.3 billion people. India's men are currently ranked 104th in FIFA's world rankings but the launch of the Indian Super League has brought increased international attention to the country.

India bids to host 2027 Asian Cup

<p>Doha will host the 2030 Asian Games, the Olympic Council of Asia announced Wednesday, while Riyadh was named as host of the 2034 edition under a compromise agreed between the rivals.</p>

<p>An executive board meeting of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) unanimously approved the proposal to name the runner-up in the two-horse race for the 2030 games as 2034 hosts.</p>

<p>"I can now announce... that the city who had the highest vote and will host 2030 is Doha," said OCA president Sheikh Ahmad Al-Fahad Al-Sabah.</p>

<p>"The second hosting city, for 2034, is Riyadh."</p>

<p>Voting was delayed by hours after technical problems with the online system, in place to allow some national olympic committees to participate remotely because of the coronavirus pandemic.</p>

<p>"I apologise for the technical problem we are facing during our voting," said Sheikh Ahmad.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Today the difficult things have been solved and the easy things have been problems."</p>

<p>"I will be glad to have two games in west Asia, to be honest," added Sheikh Ahmad.</p>

<p>Saudi and Qatar are locked in a bitter dispute after an alliance of countries led by Riyadh cut diplomatic, economic and transport ties with Doha in 2017, accusing it of backing radical Islamists and Iran.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2>- 'A national priority' -</h2>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Qatar denies the charges and there has been progress to reconcile the dispute in recent weeks with all sides praising Kuwaiti-led mediation.</p>

<p>Ahead of the vote, the OCA's president said he was seeking a "win-win" situation for Doha and Riyadh.</p>

<p>Doha hosted the Asian Games in 2006 while Saudi Arabia has never organised an OCA multi-sport event.</p>

<p>"Our goal is simple. We want to see more Asian athletes in the future, on future Olympic podiums," said Qatar Olympic Committee chief Joaan bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani ahead of the vote.</p>

<p>"We want that to be part of your national sports history, not just ours. And we want to support you in the efforts to get there."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Qatar is also participating in the bidding process for the 2032 summer Olympics.</p>

<p>A video showcased Qatar's raft of sporting and transport infrastructure being prepared ahead of the 2022 football World Cup that would be repurposed for the 2030 games. The games will have a $1.3 billion budget.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Doha bid team claimed that 90 percent of the infrastructure for the 2030 games was already in place.</p>

<p>President of Saudi's Olympic Committee Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal Al-Saud said "when we say the games are a national priority, we mean it".</p>

<p>"It has unwavering political and public support," he said</p>

<p>"Sport has changed social life in the kingdom -- especially for women."</p>

<p>Prince Abdulaziz pointed to Saudi's hosting of major boxing clashes and planning for next year's Formula 1 as proof of the kingdom's readiness for the Asian games.</p>


Doha will host the 2030 Asian Games, the Olympic Council of Asia announced Wednesday, while Riyadh was named as host of the 2034 edition under a compromise agreed between the rivals.

Doha will host the 2030 Asian Games, the Olympic Council of Asia announced Wednesday, while Riyadh was named as host of the 2034 edition under a compromise agreed between the rivals. An executive board meeting of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) unanimously approved the proposal to name the runner-up in the two-horse race for the 2030 games as 2034 hosts. "I can now announce... that the city who had the highest vote and will host 2030 is Doha," said OCA president Sheikh Ahmad Al-Fahad Al-Sabah. "The second hosting city, for 2034, is Riyadh." Voting was delayed by hours after technical problems with the online system, in place to allow some national olympic committees to participate remotely because of the coronavirus pandemic. "I apologise for the technical problem we are facing during our voting," said Sheikh Ahmad. "Today the difficult things have been solved and the easy things have been problems." "I will be glad to have two games in west Asia, to be honest," added Sheikh Ahmad. Saudi and Qatar are locked in a bitter dispute after an alliance of countries led by Riyadh cut diplomatic, economic and transport ties with Doha in 2017, accusing it of backing radical Islamists and Iran. - 'A national priority' - Qatar denies the charges and there has been progress to reconcile the dispute in recent weeks with all sides praising Kuwaiti-led mediation. Ahead of the vote, the OCA's president said he was seeking a "win-win" situation for Doha and Riyadh. Doha hosted the Asian Games in 2006 while Saudi Arabia has never organised an OCA multi-sport event. "Our goal is simple. We want to see more Asian athletes in the future, on future Olympic podiums," said Qatar Olympic Committee chief Joaan bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani ahead of the vote. "We want that to be part of your national sports history, not just ours. And we want to support you in the efforts to get there." Qatar is also participating in the bidding process for the 2032 summer Olympics. A video showcased Qatar's raft of sporting and transport infrastructure being prepared ahead of the 2022 football World Cup that would be repurposed for the 2030 games. The games will have a $1.3 billion budget. The Doha bid team claimed that 90 percent of the infrastructure for the 2030 games was already in place. President of Saudi's Olympic Committee Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal Al-Saud said "when we say the games are a national priority, we mean it". "It has unwavering political and public support," he said "Sport has changed social life in the kingdom -- especially for women." Prince Abdulaziz pointed to Saudi's hosting of major boxing clashes and planning for next year's Formula 1 as proof of the kingdom's readiness for the Asian games.

Doha to host 2030 Asian Games, Riyadh 2034 edition

<p>Steve Smith and Virat Kohli – the two greatest batsmen of this generation – interviewed each other on the eve of the Adelaide Test between India and Australia where the iconic duo spoke about a lot of things ranging from their best knocks, rivalries, challengers in international cricket and much more.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While discussing the best knocks, Kohli mentioned the 2016 T20 World Cup quarter-final against Australia wherein he hammered 82 runs to guide India to the semi-finals as he narrated the entire innings and how easily he was finding the gaps that day. The Indian skipper further said that he had trouble breaking down his own knock after the match while adding it was a special knock.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I went into a trance mode," Kohli said.</p>

<p>"You feel like things are looking difficult and you just think about committing to what the team needs.</p>

<p><strong>TRENDING |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-kohli-smith-discuss-best-knocks-rivalry-and-more-ahead-of-india-vs-australia-test-series-350192" hreflang="en">Watch: Kohli, Smith discuss best knocks, rivalry and more ahead of India vs Australia Test series</a></strong></p>

<p>"I still don't know how it happened, it was like everything I was hitting was going into gaps. I went into a zone that not even I could break down after.</p>

<p>"I felt that was so special because it's getting into that space while you're batting where you're under pressure and everything is coming off.”</p>

<p>Kohli and Smith also spoke about the 2014 series where both of them were against each other as captain. Australia won the series 2-0. Kohli came into that series after a horror tour of England and despite planning for the series for a couple of months, it didn’t get off to a perfect start for the Indian skipper.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It's funny because I visualised for two months and then we prepared so much to play the first Test and then I walk in four balls before lunch and Mitchell Johnson hit me first ball in the head," Kohli said.</p>

<p>"I just stood there thinking, 'I've prepared for two-and-a-half months, and the first ball hits me on the head. What the hell is going on?'</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/warne-vs-tendulkar-monkeygate-5-classic-australia-vs-india-encounters-349950" hreflang="en">Warne vs Tendulkar, 'Monkeygate': 5 classic Australia vs India encounters</a></strong></p>

<p>"But then you either go fight or flight. I was pissed off with myself that I prepared for so long how can I not even get bat on the ball and get out of the way."</p>

<p>Indian skipper Kohli will return back to India on paternity leave and he said that the big decision was absolutely clear in his mind while adding that he wanted to be there at any cost as it is a very, very special moment in his life.</p>

<p>"It's a decision that was absolutely clear in my mind," said Kohli.</p>

<p>"As committed as you are to play for your country this is a very, very special moment in life that you want to be there for at any cost. It's a blessed time and we're very excited."</p>

<p>Here’s the complete interview of Steve Smith and Virat Kohli:</p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>


Steve Smith and Virat Kohli – the two greatest batsmen of this generation – interviewed each other on the eve of the Adelaide Test between India and Australia where the iconic duo spoke about a lot of things ranging from their best knocks, rivalries, challengers in international cricket and much more.

Steve Smith and Virat Kohli – the two greatest batsmen of this generation – interviewed each other on the eve of the Adelaide Test between India and Australia where the iconic duo spoke about a lot of things ranging from their best knocks, rivalries, challengers in international cricket and much more. While discussing the best knocks, Kohli mentioned the 2016 T20 World Cup quarter-final against Australia wherein he hammered 82 runs to guide India to the semi-finals as he narrated the entire innings and how easily he was finding the gaps that day. The Indian skipper further said that he had trouble breaking down his own knock after the match while adding it was a special knock. "I went into a trance mode," Kohli said. "You feel like things are looking difficult and you just think about committing to what the team needs. TRENDING | Watch: Kohli, Smith discuss best knocks, rivalry and more ahead of India vs Australia Test series "I still don't know how it happened, it was like everything I was hitting was going into gaps. I went into a zone that not even I could break down after. "I felt that was so special because it's getting into that space while you're batting where you're under pressure and everything is coming off.” Kohli and Smith also spoke about the 2014 series where both of them were against each other as captain. Australia won the series 2-0. Kohli came into that series after a horror tour of England and despite planning for the series for a couple of months, it didn’t get off to a perfect start for the Indian skipper. "It's funny because I visualised for two months and then we prepared so much to play the first Test and then I walk in four balls before lunch and Mitchell Johnson hit me first ball in the head," Kohli said. "I just stood there thinking, 'I've prepared for two-and-a-half months, and the first ball hits me on the head. What the hell is going on?' ALSO READ: Warne vs Tendulkar, 'Monkeygate': 5 classic Australia vs India encounters "But then you either go fight or flight. I was pissed off with myself that I prepared for so long how can I not even get bat on the ball and get out of the way." Indian skipper Kohli will return back to India on paternity leave and he said that the big decision was absolutely clear in his mind while adding that he wanted to be there at any cost as it is a very, very special moment in his life. "It's a decision that was absolutely clear in my mind," said Kohli. "As committed as you are to play for your country this is a very, very special moment in life that you want to be there for at any cost. It's a blessed time and we're very excited." Here’s the complete interview of Steve Smith and Virat Kohli: ×

'I went into a trance mode': Virat Kohli reveals his favourite knock to Steve Smith - Watch

<p>Two of the greatest batsmen of this generation, Virat Kohli and Steve Smith, ahead of the much-awaited four-match Test series between India and Australia, sat down for a one on one interaction as they talked about their favourite knocks, overcoming challenges at the international level among many other questions.</p>

<p>Kohli’s heartwarming gesture towards Smith during the ICC World Cup 2019, where the Indian skipper asked the crowd to not boo Smith, won plenty of hearts. The Australian batsman asked Kohli about the gesture while revealing he messaged the Indian skipper on that night thanking him for the ‘top class’ move.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kohli said that it is not fair to target an individual personally&nbsp;while adding in long term you start to realise things from a larger perspective. Kohli asked Smith about how he was feeling when he walked out to bat after a 12-month break, to which the former Aussie skipper said that despite there being a lot of negativity, he enjoyed the noise of the crowd and the feeling of playing cricket again.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/my-personality-is-the-representation-of-a-new-india-virat-kohli-350171" hreflang="en">'My personality is the representation of a new India': Virat Kohli</a></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">SPECIAL - The two greats - <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/stevesmith49?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@stevesmith49</a> talk cricket.<br />
<br />
Two batting geniuses sit down to talk about their love for the game, batting techniques &amp; having more to life than just cricket.<br />
<br />
You do not want to miss this!<br />
<br />
📹📹<a href="https://t.co/3jEYM9zxzV">https://t.co/3jEYM9zxzV</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/fNrZXrxiVr">pic.twitter.com/fNrZXrxiVr</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1339144577668661249?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>“I remember I sent you a message that night saying that was top class,” said Smith.</p>

<p>“There was an incident that had happened (the sandpaper-gate sage in 2018 involving Smith and David Warner) and you guys realised it and came back after a long time having gone through everything you had to,” said Kohli.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-announce-playing-xi-for-adelaide-test-vs-australia-prithvi-shaw-wriddhiman-saha-get-the-nod-350128" hreflang="en">India announce playing XI for Adelaide Test vs Australia; Prithvi Shaw, Wriddhiman Saha get the nod</a></strong></p>

<p>“I feel that nothing in life can be that permanent and it’s not fair to target an individual personally. As much as you play against one another, there is a human side to things as well. Yes, you’re competitive on the field but you don’t want to get nasty as such. In the long term, you realise things from a larger perspective.”</p>

<p>The iconic duo then went on to discuss Kohli’s favourite innings, why Smith moved away from being a leg-spinner and much more. Catch the full conversation between Virat Kohli and Steve Smith here:</p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>


Two of the greatest batsmen of this generation, Virat Kohli and Steve Smith, ahead of the much-awaited four-match Test series between India and Australia, sat down for a one on one interaction as they talked about their favourite knocks, overcoming challenges at the international level among many other questions.

Two of the greatest batsmen of this generation, Virat Kohli and Steve Smith, ahead of the much-awaited four-match Test series between India and Australia, sat down for a one on one interaction as they talked about their favourite knocks, overcoming challenges at the international level among many other questions. Kohli’s heartwarming gesture towards Smith during the ICC World Cup 2019, where the Indian skipper asked the crowd to not boo Smith, won plenty of hearts. The Australian batsman asked Kohli about the gesture while revealing he messaged the Indian skipper on that night thanking him for the ‘top class’ move. Kohli said that it is not fair to target an individual personally while adding in long term you start to realise things from a larger perspective. Kohli asked Smith about how he was feeling when he walked out to bat after a 12-month break, to which the former Aussie skipper said that despite there being a lot of negativity, he enjoyed the noise of the crowd and the feeling of playing cricket again. ALSO READ: 'My personality is the representation of a new India': Virat Kohli SPECIAL - The two greats - @imVkohli & @stevesmith49 talk cricket. Two batting geniuses sit down to talk about their love for the game, batting techniques & having more to life than just cricket. You do not want to miss this! 📹📹https://t.co/3jEYM9zxzV #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/fNrZXrxiVr — BCCI (@BCCI) December 16, 2020 × “I remember I sent you a message that night saying that was top class,” said Smith. “There was an incident that had happened (the sandpaper-gate sage in 2018 involving Smith and David Warner) and you guys realised it and came back after a long time having gone through everything you had to,” said Kohli. ALSO READ: India announce playing XI for Adelaide Test vs Australia; Prithvi Shaw, Wriddhiman Saha get the nod “I feel that nothing in life can be that permanent and it’s not fair to target an individual personally. As much as you play against one another, there is a human side to things as well. Yes, you’re competitive on the field but you don’t want to get nasty as such. In the long term, you realise things from a larger perspective.” The iconic duo then went on to discuss Kohli’s favourite innings, why Smith moved away from being a leg-spinner and much more. Catch the full conversation between Virat Kohli and Steve Smith here: ×

Watch: Kohli, Smith discuss best knocks, rivalry and more ahead of India vs Australia Test series

<p>Delhi Bulls, a franchise cricket team in the Abu Dhabi T10 League, has appointed Andy Flower as&nbsp;its head coach for Season 4. Andy replaces Stephen Fleming who had mixed fortunes in his two years as Head Coach. The Bulls management also announced appointments of Azhar Mahmood and James Foster as assistants to Andy.</p>

<p>Andy Flower has had an illustrious cricketing career, and the records show why he is known as one of the best cricketing captains Zimbabwe ever produced. Besides his phenomenal batting achievements, Andy has donned the coach’s hat numerous times with resounding success, including England’s Ashes victory in 2013, coaching the winning team in the Abu Dhabi T10 league in 2019, and several other cricket franchises in the shorter format of the game.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/my-personality-is-the-representation-of-a-new-india-virat-kohli-350171" hreflang="en">'My personality is the representation of a new India': Virat Kohli</a></strong></p>

<p>Speaking about the new appointment,&nbsp;Neelesh Bhatnagar, Owner of Delhi Bulls, said “Whilst we thank Stephen Fleming for his contribution to the franchise, the time was right to change strategies and move in a new direction. The years of expertise and the continued success of Andy Flower could make all the difference this year, and we couldn’t be more excited to have him on board. We have had some good players represent our franchise over the years, but we simply need to find the right rhythm, mix of skills sets, and player combinations to win games. Andy will be visiting Abu Dhabi to participate in the draft, playing a significant role in choosing the right team.”</p>

<p>With a new and dynamic coaching setup, the Bulls signed the fierce West Indian all-rounder and ‘Icon player’ Dwayne Bravo, who will also don the captain's hat. He is accompanied by Evin Lewis as the other new signing. Key members of their squad from last season that have been retained are; West-Indian batsman Sherfane Rutherford, U.S. pacer Ali Khan, Afghan top-order batsman and bowler Mohammad Nabi, and Sri Lankan speedster DushmanthaChameera.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/warne-vs-tendulkar-monkeygate-5-classic-australia-vs-india-encounters-349950" hreflang="en">Warne vs Tendulkar, 'Monkeygate': 5 classic Australia vs India encounters</a></strong></p>

<p>Speaking on his new role,&nbsp;Andy Flower, Head Coach of Delhi Bulls, said “I am excited to join this franchise and work closely with Neelesh and rest of the team. This is an exciting new format that has been well accepted by the players and fans alike. I had a great time in this tournament last year and I am looking to use that experience to help the Bulls achieve success. We have retained experienced as well as young players who will play a big role in this team’s fortunes. But the aim now is to look towards the main draft to secure our primary targets and create a dynamic squad to play under The Champion Bravo.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>The tournament was earlier scheduled for the 19th to 28th of November, 2020. Owing to the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on all sporting events, the league was rescheduled to fit the January-February timeline. The tournament’s format will be a round-robin event with each team playing off the other, followed by the playoffs and final.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Main Draft is scheduled to be held on 23rd&nbsp;December 2020 and can be viewed live on the Sony Network.</p>


Delhi Bulls, a franchise cricket team in the Abu Dhabi T10 League, has appointed Andy Flower as its head coach for Season 4. Andy replaces Stephen Fleming who had mixed fortunes in his two years as Head Coach.

Delhi Bulls, a franchise cricket team in the Abu Dhabi T10 League, has appointed Andy Flower as its head coach for Season 4. Andy replaces Stephen Fleming who had mixed fortunes in his two years as Head Coach. The Bulls management also announced appointments of Azhar Mahmood and James Foster as assistants to Andy. Andy Flower has had an illustrious cricketing career, and the records show why he is known as one of the best cricketing captains Zimbabwe ever produced. Besides his phenomenal batting achievements, Andy has donned the coach’s hat numerous times with resounding success, including England’s Ashes victory in 2013, coaching the winning team in the Abu Dhabi T10 league in 2019, and several other cricket franchises in the shorter format of the game. ALSO READ: 'My personality is the representation of a new India': Virat Kohli Speaking about the new appointment, Neelesh Bhatnagar, Owner of Delhi Bulls, said “Whilst we thank Stephen Fleming for his contribution to the franchise, the time was right to change strategies and move in a new direction. The years of expertise and the continued success of Andy Flower could make all the difference this year, and we couldn’t be more excited to have him on board. We have had some good players represent our franchise over the years, but we simply need to find the right rhythm, mix of skills sets, and player combinations to win games. Andy will be visiting Abu Dhabi to participate in the draft, playing a significant role in choosing the right team.” With a new and dynamic coaching setup, the Bulls signed the fierce West Indian all-rounder and ‘Icon player’ Dwayne Bravo, who will also don the captain's hat. He is accompanied by Evin Lewis as the other new signing. Key members of their squad from last season that have been retained are; West-Indian batsman Sherfane Rutherford, U.S. pacer Ali Khan, Afghan top-order batsman and bowler Mohammad Nabi, and Sri Lankan speedster DushmanthaChameera. ALSO READ: Warne vs Tendulkar, 'Monkeygate': 5 classic Australia vs India encounters Speaking on his new role, Andy Flower, Head Coach of Delhi Bulls, said “I am excited to join this franchise and work closely with Neelesh and rest of the team. This is an exciting new format that has been well accepted by the players and fans alike. I had a great time in this tournament last year and I am looking to use that experience to help the Bulls achieve success. We have retained experienced as well as young players who will play a big role in this team’s fortunes. But the aim now is to look towards the main draft to secure our primary targets and create a dynamic squad to play under The Champion Bravo.” The tournament was earlier scheduled for the 19th to 28th of November, 2020. Owing to the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on all sporting events, the league was rescheduled to fit the January-February timeline. The tournament’s format will be a round-robin event with each team playing off the other, followed by the playoffs and final. The Main Draft is scheduled to be held on 23rd December 2020 and can be viewed live on the Sony Network.

Andy Flower replaces Fleming as Head Coach of Delhi Bulls

<p class="MsoNormal">The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Wednesday announced the Team India playing XI for the first Test against Australia at the Adelaide Oval, starting December 17 (Thursday). Opener Prithvi Shaw gets the green signal over Shubman Gill whereas Wriddhiman Saha will take the wicket-keeping gloves over Rishabh Pant, who smoked a century in the pink-ball warm-up match against Australia A.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Virat Kohli will lead the side and this will be the only Test he will play in this four-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Mayank Agarwal will pair up with Prithvi Shaw up top as the latter get the green signal ahead of Shubman Gill, who looked in great touch during the two warm-up matches against Australia A.&nbsp;</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The Indian middle-order completes itself with the likes of Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, Cheteshwar Pujara and Hanuma Vihari filling up the slots. Interestingly, Wriddhiman Saha has been preferred over Rishabh Pant. The young southpaw smashed a terrific century in the pink-ball warm-up match against Australia A but has to sit out of the match.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kohli-smith-pace-and-pink-balls-what-to-watch-when-australia-face-india-350121" hreflang="en">Kohli, Smith, pace and pink balls: what to watch when Australia face India</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The Indian bowling attack comprises the likes of Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah with Umesh Yadav coming in as the third seamer. Ravichandran Ashwin has been picked as the sole specialist spinner in the team.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">UPDATE🚨: Here’s <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a>’s playing XI for the first Border-Gavaskar Test against Australia starting tomorrow in Adelaide. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/WbVRWrhqwi">pic.twitter.com/WbVRWrhqwi</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1339115913061179395?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<h2 class="MsoNormal"><o:p>India Playing XI vs Australia for Adelaide Test:</o:p></h2>

<p class="MsoNormal">Virat Kohli (C)<br />
Mayank Agarwal<br />
Prithvi Shaw<br />
Cheteshwar Pujara<br />
Ajinkya Rahane<br />
Hanuma Vihari<br />
Wriddhiman Saha (WK)<br />
Ravichandran Ashwin<br />
Umesh Yadav<br />
Mohammed Shami<br />
Jasprit Bumrah</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/warne-vs-tendulkar-monkeygate-5-classic-australia-vs-india-encounters-349950" hreflang="en">Warne vs Tendulkar, 'Monkeygate': 5 classic Australia vs India encounters</a></strong></p>

<p>“I would like to say that I have always been myself,” Indian skipper Kohli&nbsp;said during a virtual media conference ahead of the opening Test against Australia here starting Thursday.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">'Ajinkya and I are on the same page and I’m sure he'll do a tremendous job in my absence,' says <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> Skipper <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> on the eve of the first Test against Australia.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/S8fmUABfUC">pic.twitter.com/S8fmUABfUC</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1339121199238901761?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/where-are-shubman-gill-and-rishabh-pant-fans-question-team-india-playing-xi-350150" hreflang="en">Where are Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant? Fans question Team India playing XI</a></strong></p>

<p>“The way my personality and character is, I am the representation of new India. For me, that’s how I look at it,” he asserted.</p>

<p>“In my mind, it’s not (about) being compared to the Australian mindset as such. It’s how we have started to stand up as the Indian cricket team and my personality has been like this from day one” he added.</p>

<p>“The new India takes up challenges and is filled with optimism and positivity. We make sure that we are ready for any challenges that come our way.”</p>


The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Wednesday announced the Team India playing XI for the first Test against Australia at the Adelaide Oval, starting December 17 (Thursday).

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Wednesday announced the Team India playing XI for the first Test against Australia at the Adelaide Oval, starting December 17 (Thursday). Opener Prithvi Shaw gets the green signal over Shubman Gill whereas Wriddhiman Saha will take the wicket-keeping gloves over Rishabh Pant, who smoked a century in the pink-ball warm-up match against Australia A. Virat Kohli will lead the side and this will be the only Test he will play in this four-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Mayank Agarwal will pair up with Prithvi Shaw up top as the latter get the green signal ahead of Shubman Gill, who looked in great touch during the two warm-up matches against Australia A. The Indian middle-order completes itself with the likes of Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, Cheteshwar Pujara and Hanuma Vihari filling up the slots. Interestingly, Wriddhiman Saha has been preferred over Rishabh Pant. The young southpaw smashed a terrific century in the pink-ball warm-up match against Australia A but has to sit out of the match. ALSO READ: Kohli, Smith, pace and pink balls: what to watch when Australia face India The Indian bowling attack comprises the likes of Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah with Umesh Yadav coming in as the third seamer. Ravichandran Ashwin has been picked as the sole specialist spinner in the team. UPDATE🚨: Here’s #TeamIndia’s playing XI for the first Border-Gavaskar Test against Australia starting tomorrow in Adelaide. #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/WbVRWrhqwi — BCCI (@BCCI) December 16, 2020 × India Playing XI vs Australia for Adelaide Test: Virat Kohli (C) Mayank Agarwal Prithvi Shaw Cheteshwar Pujara Ajinkya Rahane Hanuma Vihari Wriddhiman Saha (WK) Ravichandran Ashwin Umesh Yadav Mohammed Shami Jasprit Bumrah ALSO READ: Warne vs Tendulkar, 'Monkeygate': 5 classic Australia vs India encounters “I would like to say that I have always been myself,” Indian skipper Kohli said during a virtual media conference ahead of the opening Test against Australia here starting Thursday. 'Ajinkya and I are on the same page and I’m sure he'll do a tremendous job in my absence,' says #TeamIndia Skipper @imVkohli on the eve of the first Test against Australia.#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/S8fmUABfUC — BCCI (@BCCI) December 16, 2020 × ALSO READ: Where are Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant? Fans question Team India playing XI “The way my personality and character is, I am the representation of new India. For me, that’s how I look at it,” he asserted. “In my mind, it’s not (about) being compared to the Australian mindset as such. It’s how we have started to stand up as the Indian cricket team and my personality has been like this from day one” he added. “The new India takes up challenges and is filled with optimism and positivity. We make sure that we are ready for any challenges that come our way.”

India announce playing XI for Adelaide Test vs Australia; Prithvi Shaw, Wriddhiman Saha get the nod

<p>The Indian team on Thursday announced its playing XI for the first Test of the four-match Border Gavaskar Trophy with a couple of surprising picks. The day-night Test at the Adelaide Oval is set to be played between India and Australia from December 17 in what promises to be a thrilling pink-ball Test. However, some of the fans were irked by the calls taken by the Indian team management after the playing XI for the Adelaide Test was announced.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prithvi Shaw and Wriddhiman Saha were picked over Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant and fans were left scratching their heads over the calls. Shaw has been out of form for some time now. Even though it would be harsh on the youngster to mix formats and judge his form, Shaw’s form in the two warm-up matches against Australia A suggested that he is struggling with his technique and confidence. His form in IPL and knack of finding different ways of throwing his wickets away has been questioned by pundits and fans.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-announce-playing-xi-for-adelaide-test-vs-australia-prithvi-shaw-wriddhiman-saha-get-the-nod-350128" hreflang="en">India announce playing XI for Adelaide Test vs Australia; Prithvi Shaw, Wriddhiman Saha get the nod</a></strong></p>

<p>On the other hand, Shubman Gill looked classy in the warm-up matches and scored a scintillating half-century in the pink-ball warm-up match against Australia A. Gill’s technique has been praised by many and given the bouncier conditions in Australia, his comfort of playing the ball on the up was seen as an added advantage. However, he will have to wait for his Test cap and is expected to be in the playing XI once Virat Kohli leaves for India after the Adelaide Test.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">In the Practice matches against Australia A, Prithvi Shaw scores is 0, 19, 40 and 3 and Shubman Gill scorers 0, 29, 43, and 65. Gill was in excellent form and he looked very good in the Pink Ball Practice match while batting. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvsIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvsIND</a></p>
— CricketMAN2 (@man4_cricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/man4_cricket/status/1339126645379067904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I am finding it difficult to understand why KL Rahul and Shubman Gill are sitting outside. Prithvi Shaw was a failure in both practice games.<br />
<br />
This is ridiculous. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvsIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvsIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/BnervyIosM">pic.twitter.com/BnervyIosM</a></p>
— Aayush Sharma | آیوش شرما 🏳️‍🌈 (@JournalistWFH) <a href="https://twitter.com/JournalistWFH/status/1339126383805571074?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Shubman Gill should have been in the playing 11. He is much more consistent than Prithvi Shaw. <a href="https://t.co/7WX1afpcqv">https://t.co/7WX1afpcqv</a></p>
— Subrata Panda (@subratapanda) <a href="https://twitter.com/subratapanda/status/1339124003701551105?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Terrible.<br />
Shubman Gill having proved his abilities in the warm up matches but still not in the playing 11.<br />
Shubman Gill should've been replaced for Prithvi Shaw. <a href="https://t.co/09UGjJRrGs">pic.twitter.com/09UGjJRrGs</a></p>
— Vishal S (@veee_shaall) <a href="https://twitter.com/veee_shaall/status/1339122352739688448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Prithvi Shaw and Wriddhiman Saha over Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill!<br />
<br />
Shocked n surprised at the selection. Last tour in Australia, Rishabh was second highest Indian scorer. Both Gill n him played well in practise match as well! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCI</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/RaviShastriOfc?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RaviShastriOfc</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SGanguly99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SGanguly99</a></p>
— Shivam 🇮🇳 |🎸| (@itsShivam18) <a href="https://twitter.com/itsShivam18/status/1339122122463985664?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">It's just too hard on Shubman Gill. Looked in fine touch in practice match. Even in NZ tour games he scored 83, 204* 136 in first class games still fail to debut . I hope they select him in 2nd Test when kohli leaves. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Shubmangill?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Shubmangill</a></p>
— Uday (@Udaycric) <a href="https://twitter.com/Udaycric/status/1339122027307945984?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Tough luck Shubman Gill and KL Rahul! Team Management has gone with a big gamble here with Shaw and Saha!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvsIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvsIND</a></p>
— Daanveer ↗️ (@daanveers) <a href="https://twitter.com/daanveers/status/1339121128632066049?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Rishabh Pant should’ve made it in the playing XI<br />
<br />
He had a brilliant practice game he is a busy batsmen would keep the score board ticking over fast. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a></p>
— Qas. (@QAS__786) <a href="https://twitter.com/QAS__786/status/1339129450521382912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Wriddhiman Saha, who is arguably the finest wicket-keeper in the world, has been picked over Rishabh Pant. While Pant’s form is also not the best, the southpaw scored a breathtaking century in the second warm-up match against Australia A.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/warne-vs-tendulkar-monkeygate-5-classic-australia-vs-india-encounters-349950" hreflang="en">Warne vs Tendulkar, 'Monkeygate': 5 classic Australia vs India encounters</a></strong></p>

<p>If Shaw can get picked due to his previous performances in Test then it was Pant who scored a century on Australian soil the last time India visited Down Under.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While some of the fans are irked by these two decisions, they would be hoping that India start the much-awaited series with a win over Australia.</p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="box-sizing: border-box; outline: 0px !important; font-family: &quot;Noto Serif&quot;, serif; font-weight: 400; line-height: 28px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; font-size: 22px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><strong>India Playing XI vs Australia for Adelaide Test:</strong></h2>

<ul>
	<li class="MsoNormal" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: &quot;Noto Serif&quot;, serif; font-weight: 400; line-height: 28px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; font-size: 22px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; outline: 0px !important;">Virat Kohli (C)</li>
	<li class="MsoNormal" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: &quot;Noto Serif&quot;, serif; font-weight: 400; line-height: 28px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; font-size: 22px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; outline: 0px !important;">Mayank Agarwal</li>
	<li class="MsoNormal" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: &quot;Noto Serif&quot;, serif; font-weight: 400; line-height: 28px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; font-size: 22px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; outline: 0px !important;">Prithvi Shaw</li>
	<li class="MsoNormal" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: &quot;Noto Serif&quot;, serif; font-weight: 400; line-height: 28px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; font-size: 22px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; outline: 0px !important;">Cheteshwar Pujara</li>
	<li class="MsoNormal" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: &quot;Noto Serif&quot;, serif; font-weight: 400; line-height: 28px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; font-size: 22px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; outline: 0px !important;">Ajinkya Rahane</li>
	<li class="MsoNormal" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: &quot;Noto Serif&quot;, serif; font-weight: 400; line-height: 28px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; font-size: 22px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; outline: 0px !important;">Hanuma Vihari</li>
	<li class="MsoNormal" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: &quot;Noto Serif&quot;, serif; font-weight: 400; line-height: 28px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; font-size: 22px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; outline: 0px !important;">Wriddhiman Saha (WK)</li>
	<li class="MsoNormal" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: &quot;Noto Serif&quot;, serif; font-weight: 400; line-height: 28px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; font-size: 22px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; outline: 0px !important;">Ravichandran Ashwin</li>
	<li class="MsoNormal" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: &quot;Noto Serif&quot;, serif; font-weight: 400; line-height: 28px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; font-size: 22px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; outline: 0px !important;">Umesh Yadav</li>
	<li class="MsoNormal" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: &quot;Noto Serif&quot;, serif; font-weight: 400; line-height: 28px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; font-size: 22px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; outline: 0px !important;">Mohammed Shami</li>
	<li class="MsoNormal" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: &quot;Noto Serif&quot;, serif; font-weight: 400; line-height: 28px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; font-size: 22px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; outline: 0px !important;">Jasprit Bumrah</li>
</ul>


The Indian team on Thursday announced its playing XI for the first Test of the four-match Border Gavaskar Trophy with a couple of surprising picks. The day-night Test at the Adelaide Oval is set to be played between India and Australia from December 17 in what promises to be a thrilling pink-ball Test.

The Indian team on Thursday announced its playing XI for the first Test of the four-match Border Gavaskar Trophy with a couple of surprising picks. The day-night Test at the Adelaide Oval is set to be played between India and Australia from December 17 in what promises to be a thrilling pink-ball Test. However, some of the fans were irked by the calls taken by the Indian team management after the playing XI for the Adelaide Test was announced. Prithvi Shaw and Wriddhiman Saha were picked over Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant and fans were left scratching their heads over the calls. Shaw has been out of form for some time now. Even though it would be harsh on the youngster to mix formats and judge his form, Shaw’s form in the two warm-up matches against Australia A suggested that he is struggling with his technique and confidence. His form in IPL and knack of finding different ways of throwing his wickets away has been questioned by pundits and fans. ALSO READ: India announce playing XI for Adelaide Test vs Australia; Prithvi Shaw, Wriddhiman Saha get the nod On the other hand, Shubman Gill looked classy in the warm-up matches and scored a scintillating half-century in the pink-ball warm-up match against Australia A. Gill’s technique has been praised by many and given the bouncier conditions in Australia, his comfort of playing the ball on the up was seen as an added advantage. However, he will have to wait for his Test cap and is expected to be in the playing XI once Virat Kohli leaves for India after the Adelaide Test. In the Practice matches against Australia A, Prithvi Shaw scores is 0, 19, 40 and 3 and Shubman Gill scorers 0, 29, 43, and 65. Gill was in excellent form and he looked very good in the Pink Ball Practice match while batting. #AUSvsIND — CricketMAN2 (@man4_cricket) December 16, 2020 × I am finding it difficult to understand why KL Rahul and Shubman Gill are sitting outside. Prithvi Shaw was a failure in both practice games. This is ridiculous. #AUSvsIND pic.twitter.com/BnervyIosM — Aayush Sharma | آیوش شرما 🏳️‍🌈 (@JournalistWFH) December 16, 2020 × Shubman Gill should have been in the playing 11. He is much more consistent than Prithvi Shaw. https://t.co/7WX1afpcqv — Subrata Panda (@subratapanda) December 16, 2020 × Terrible. Shubman Gill having proved his abilities in the warm up matches but still not in the playing 11. Shubman Gill should've been replaced for Prithvi Shaw. pic.twitter.com/09UGjJRrGs — Vishal S (@veee_shaall) December 16, 2020 × Prithvi Shaw and Wriddhiman Saha over Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill! Shocked n surprised at the selection. Last tour in Australia, Rishabh was second highest Indian scorer. Both Gill n him played well in practise match as well! #AUSvIND @BCCI @RaviShastriOfc @SGanguly99 — Shivam 🇮🇳 |🎸| (@itsShivam18) December 16, 2020 × It's just too hard on Shubman Gill. Looked in fine touch in practice match. Even in NZ tour games he scored 83, 204* 136 in first class games still fail to debut . I hope they select him in 2nd Test when kohli leaves. #AUSvIND #INDvAUS #Shubmangill — Uday (@Udaycric) December 16, 2020 × Tough luck Shubman Gill and KL Rahul! Team Management has gone with a big gamble here with Shaw and Saha!#AUSvsIND — Daanveer ↗️ (@daanveers) December 16, 2020 × Rishabh Pant should’ve made it in the playing XI He had a brilliant practice game he is a busy batsmen would keep the score board ticking over fast. #AUSvIND — Qas. (@QAS__786) December 16, 2020 × Wriddhiman Saha, who is arguably the finest wicket-keeper in the world, has been picked over Rishabh Pant. While Pant’s form is also not the best, the southpaw scored a breathtaking century in the second warm-up match against Australia A. ALSO READ: Warne vs Tendulkar, 'Monkeygate': 5 classic Australia vs India encounters If Shaw can get picked due to his previous performances in Test then it was Pant who scored a century on Australian soil the last time India visited Down Under. While some of the fans are irked by these two decisions, they would be hoping that India start the much-awaited series with a win over Australia. India Playing XI vs Australia for Adelaide Test: Virat Kohli (C) Mayank Agarwal Prithvi Shaw Cheteshwar Pujara Ajinkya Rahane Hanuma Vihari Wriddhiman Saha (WK) Ravichandran Ashwin Umesh Yadav Mohammed Shami Jasprit Bumrah

Where are Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant? Fans question Team India playing XI

<p>Australia and India renew their fierce rivalry in a four-Test series that begins with a day-night game in Adelaide on Thursday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India won a Test series for the first time Down Under when the sides clashed two years ago and Australia are determined to regain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Here are five things to watch out for in the highly anticipated series:</p>

<h2>- Kohli's lone shot -</h2>

<p>India captain Virat Kohli will be desperate to make a winning contribution in his only chance of a Test victory against Australia this series -- he has decided to return home after Adelaide to be with his Bollywood actress wife, Anushka Sharma, who is expecting their first child.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After India lost 2-1 in the recent one-dayers, Kohli showed his importance to the side during the Twenty20 series victory. And pundits, including Indian batting great Sachin Tendulkar, believe his departure will leave a "void" in the batting line-up.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But other India veterans have suggested Kohli's absence could enable a new star to emerge in the side, which will be led by vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane once Kohli leaves.</p>

<h2>- Smith returns -</h2>

<p>Steve Smith is playing down calls for him to become Australia's captain again, insisting he is just "excited" to feature in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy clashes after missing out two years ago.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The prolific 31-year-old batsman was left powerless on the sidelines as India won their first series in Australia in 2018-19 while he and David Warner served out bans for ball-tampering.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Smith, who amassed 774 runs, including three centuries as Australia retained the Ashes in England last year, said "I will do what is best for the team" despite former players such as Adam Gilchrist calling for him to step up for a second crack at the captaincy.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>- Hard day's night -</h2>

<p>Australia start as overwhelming favourites in the opening Test having never been beaten in their seven day-night matches to date, while Virat Kohli's India play their first overseas game under lights after their maiden pink-ball outing in Kolkata last year against Bangladesh.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India long resisted twilight encounters, but Tendulkar told AFP he believed their players would be ready having played warm-up games and had intensive net sessions with the pink ball this week.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"They would have studied how the Adelaide pitch plays during day-night Test match and what is the time to accelerate and go for runs," he said, adding the first daylight session each day could be the time for batsmen to cash in.</p>

<h2>- Pitch battles -</h2>

<p>India's fast-bowling attack, led by Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah, are ready to fight fire with fire in Australia's own den.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The pacey pair shared five wickets as they bundled out Australia A for 108 and signalled their intent to enjoy bowling on wickets Down Under that are renowned for providing extra pace and bounce.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Australia's three-pronged attack of Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood "can surpass any era" of quicks, according to former paceman Brett Lee, but India coach Anil Kumble countered that his attack was their equal. "We probably match our fast bowling to their fast bowling," he said.</p>

<h2>- Send in the crowds -</h2>

<p>Australia and New Zealand have been the first countries to welcome back spectators to cricket since the pandemic -- the Adelaide Oval will be half full for the first Test while 30,000 should be allowed into the Melbourne Cricket Ground for Boxing Day.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Indian cricket chief Sourav Ganguly tweeted a picture of a full house as New Zealand played a Test last week against the West Indies at Basin Reserve, Wellington, writing "the game needs this".</p>

<p>But players, with a lucrative series on the line, will be wary of sticking to coronavirus prevention protocols after other tours were disrupted this month.</p>

<p>Pakistan were banned from training under quarantine in New Zealand after eight players tested positive. England abandoned their tour of South Africa after Covid-19 cases in both camps, though the England players later returned negative tests.&nbsp;</p>


Australia and India renew their fierce rivalry in a four-Test series that begins with a day-night game in Adelaide on Thursday. India won a Test series for the first time Down Under when the sides clashed two years ago and Australia are determined to regain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

Australia and India renew their fierce rivalry in a four-Test series that begins with a day-night game in Adelaide on Thursday. India won a Test series for the first time Down Under when the sides clashed two years ago and Australia are determined to regain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Here are five things to watch out for in the highly anticipated series: - Kohli's lone shot - India captain Virat Kohli will be desperate to make a winning contribution in his only chance of a Test victory against Australia this series -- he has decided to return home after Adelaide to be with his Bollywood actress wife, Anushka Sharma, who is expecting their first child. After India lost 2-1 in the recent one-dayers, Kohli showed his importance to the side during the Twenty20 series victory. And pundits, including Indian batting great Sachin Tendulkar, believe his departure will leave a "void" in the batting line-up. But other India veterans have suggested Kohli's absence could enable a new star to emerge in the side, which will be led by vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane once Kohli leaves. - Smith returns - Steve Smith is playing down calls for him to become Australia's captain again, insisting he is just "excited" to feature in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy clashes after missing out two years ago. The prolific 31-year-old batsman was left powerless on the sidelines as India won their first series in Australia in 2018-19 while he and David Warner served out bans for ball-tampering. Smith, who amassed 774 runs, including three centuries as Australia retained the Ashes in England last year, said "I will do what is best for the team" despite former players such as Adam Gilchrist calling for him to step up for a second crack at the captaincy. - Hard day's night - Australia start as overwhelming favourites in the opening Test having never been beaten in their seven day-night matches to date, while Virat Kohli's India play their first overseas game under lights after their maiden pink-ball outing in Kolkata last year against Bangladesh. India long resisted twilight encounters, but Tendulkar told AFP he believed their players would be ready having played warm-up games and had intensive net sessions with the pink ball this week. "They would have studied how the Adelaide pitch plays during day-night Test match and what is the time to accelerate and go for runs," he said, adding the first daylight session each day could be the time for batsmen to cash in. - Pitch battles - India's fast-bowling attack, led by Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah, are ready to fight fire with fire in Australia's own den. The pacey pair shared five wickets as they bundled out Australia A for 108 and signalled their intent to enjoy bowling on wickets Down Under that are renowned for providing extra pace and bounce. Australia's three-pronged attack of Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood "can surpass any era" of quicks, according to former paceman Brett Lee, but India coach Anil Kumble countered that his attack was their equal. "We probably match our fast bowling to their fast bowling," he said. - Send in the crowds - Australia and New Zealand have been the first countries to welcome back spectators to cricket since the pandemic -- the Adelaide Oval will be half full for the first Test while 30,000 should be allowed into the Melbourne Cricket Ground for Boxing Day. Indian cricket chief Sourav Ganguly tweeted a picture of a full house as New Zealand played a Test last week against the West Indies at Basin Reserve, Wellington, writing "the game needs this". But players, with a lucrative series on the line, will be wary of sticking to coronavirus prevention protocols after other tours were disrupted this month. Pakistan were banned from training under quarantine in New Zealand after eight players tested positive. England abandoned their tour of South Africa after Covid-19 cases in both camps, though the England players later returned negative tests.

Kohli, Smith, pace and pink balls: what to watch when Australia face India

<p>India will look to close the gap with table-toppers Australia in the ICC World Test Championship points table after their first pink-ball Test in Adelaide on Thursday.</p>

<p>India are in third place in the MRF Tyres ICC Men's Test Team Rankings with 114 rating points, whilst Australia top the rankings with 116.46 rating points. New Zealand follow closely in second with 116.37 rating points.</p>

<p>New Zealand are very close to reaching the ICC World Test Championship final in 2021 after securing back-to-back innings victories against the West Indies. India will feel the pressure as the race to the World Test Championship final heats up.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/warne-vs-tendulkar-monkeygate-5-classic-australia-vs-india-encounters-349950" hreflang="en">Warne vs Tendulkar, 'Monkeygate': 5 classic Australia vs India encounters</a></strong></p>

<p>Australia and India will fight it out in a four-Test series as the hosts look to build on their narrow lead at the top of the table. If New Zealand overcome Pakistan 2-0 in the two-Test series which starts on 26 December, they will finish on 420 points from five series.</p>

<p>That will leave India needing five wins or four wins and three draws out of their last eight Tests, which include facing Australia away and hosting England for a four-Test series beginning in February 2021. Depending on how India's series against Australia goes and New Zealand's series against Pakistan goes, Australia could build their lead at number one or make way for New Zealand at the top.</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>The factor that determines the final placings is now percentage points, following a change to the points system announced earlier, owing to the disruption of international cricket due to the COVID-19 pandemic.</p>


India will look to close the gap with table-toppers Australia in the ICC World Test Championship points table after their first pink-ball Test in Adelaide on Thursday.

India will look to close the gap with table-toppers Australia in the ICC World Test Championship points table after their first pink-ball Test in Adelaide on Thursday. India are in third place in the MRF Tyres ICC Men's Test Team Rankings with 114 rating points, whilst Australia top the rankings with 116.46 rating points. New Zealand follow closely in second with 116.37 rating points. New Zealand are very close to reaching the ICC World Test Championship final in 2021 after securing back-to-back innings victories against the West Indies. India will feel the pressure as the race to the World Test Championship final heats up. ALSO READ: Warne vs Tendulkar, 'Monkeygate': 5 classic Australia vs India encounters Australia and India will fight it out in a four-Test series as the hosts look to build on their narrow lead at the top of the table. If New Zealand overcome Pakistan 2-0 in the two-Test series which starts on 26 December, they will finish on 420 points from five series. That will leave India needing five wins or four wins and three draws out of their last eight Tests, which include facing Australia away and hosting England for a four-Test series beginning in February 2021. Depending on how India's series against Australia goes and New Zealand's series against Pakistan goes, Australia could build their lead at number one or make way for New Zealand at the top. ALSO READ: From taking the knee to joining protests: Athletes who contributed to 'Black Lives Matter' movement The factor that determines the final placings is now percentage points, following a change to the points system announced earlier, owing to the disruption of international cricket due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Australia look to retain top spot in the ICC World Test Championship as the race to the final heats up

<p>Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have been selected as best right winger and left winger of all-time, by France Football magazine’s Ballon d’Or panel. The legendary duo of Diego Maradona and Pele were also picked in the Ballon d’Or Dream Team as right and left wide midfielders respectively in a team that boasts the greatest players of all-time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Former Barcelona and Spain international Xavi was given the nod as best defensive midfielder ever alongside Lothar Matthaus. Eleven players were selected to complete the “Dream Team” with the panel of 140 experts going for an attacking 3-4-3 formation.</p>

<p>Brazilian great Ronaldo Nazario was picked as the greatest striker of all-time as he beat the tight competition to grab the spot in the Dream Team.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Cafú, Franz Beckenbauer, and Paolo Maldini complete a solid-looking defence line with Lev Yashin taking the charge of the goalkeeping gloves.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Following the cancellation of Ballon d’Or award for world’s best footballer due to the COVID-19 pandemic, France Football announced its best XI in the history of football, as voted by journalists from 170 countries and regions.&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>"For me, it is an honour to have been included in the eleven of the Ballon d'Or Dream Team. I want to thank you for choosing me and also congratulate all the players who were selected ... and all the nominees, there are real phenomena on that list," Messi, who has won the Ballon d'Or a record six times, said in an Instagram post.</p>

<p>Ronaldo Nazario, a two-time World Cup winner and dual Ballon d'Or recipient, also expressed pride at being named in the No. 9 position.</p>

<p>"It's such an honour to be elected the best centre forward of all time in the Dream Team by France Football," Ronaldo said on Instagram.</p>

<p>"I gave my life for football and followed my dreams. No matter the obstacle I faced and the pain I had to overcome I was always focused to get where I wanted," he added.</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/postponements-and-resumption-a-turbulent-year-of-2020-for-sports-world-346992" hreflang="en">Postponements and resumption: A turbulent year of 2020 for sports world</a></strong></p>

<p>Juventus star Cristiano Ronaldo, who has won the Ballon d'Or five times, said: "I'm very honoured to be part of France Football's all-time 11. What an amazing Dream Team. They all deserve my respect and admiration and I'm obviously proud to be amongst such extraordinary players. Thank you!"</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">⭐After the votes of 140 journalists from all around the world, here is the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BOdreamteam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BOdreamteam</a> with 11 best players of all time ! ⭐ <a href="https://t.co/FsKAoSyGZL">pic.twitter.com/FsKAoSyGZL</a></p>
— France Football (@francefootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/francefootball/status/1338535048136552451?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Ballon d'Or Dream Team</h2>

<p><strong>Goalkeeper:</strong> Lev Yashin.</p>

<p><strong>Defenders: </strong>Cafú, Franz Beckenbauer, and Paolo Maldini.</p>

<p><strong>Midfielders:</strong> Lothar Matthäus, Xavi, Pelé, and Maradona.</p>

<p><strong>Forwards:</strong> Lionel Messi, Ronaldo Nazário, and Cristiano Ronaldo.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have been selected as best right winger and left winger of all-time, by France Football magazine’s Ballon d’Or panel. The legendary duo of Diego Maradona and Pele were also picked in the Ballon d’Or Dream Team as right and left wide midfielders respectively in a team that boasts the greatest players of all-time.

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have been selected as best right winger and left winger of all-time, by France Football magazine’s Ballon d’Or panel. The legendary duo of Diego Maradona and Pele were also picked in the Ballon d’Or Dream Team as right and left wide midfielders respectively in a team that boasts the greatest players of all-time. Former Barcelona and Spain international Xavi was given the nod as best defensive midfielder ever alongside Lothar Matthaus. Eleven players were selected to complete the “Dream Team” with the panel of 140 experts going for an attacking 3-4-3 formation. Brazilian great Ronaldo Nazario was picked as the greatest striker of all-time as he beat the tight competition to grab the spot in the Dream Team. Cafú, Franz Beckenbauer, and Paolo Maldini complete a solid-looking defence line with Lev Yashin taking the charge of the goalkeeping gloves. Following the cancellation of Ballon d’Or award for world’s best footballer due to the COVID-19 pandemic, France Football announced its best XI in the history of football, as voted by journalists from 170 countries and regions. ALSO READ: From taking the knee to joining protests: Athletes who contributed to 'Black Lives Matter' movement "For me, it is an honour to have been included in the eleven of the Ballon d'Or Dream Team. I want to thank you for choosing me and also congratulate all the players who were selected ... and all the nominees, there are real phenomena on that list," Messi, who has won the Ballon d'Or a record six times, said in an Instagram post. Ronaldo Nazario, a two-time World Cup winner and dual Ballon d'Or recipient, also expressed pride at being named in the No. 9 position. "It's such an honour to be elected the best centre forward of all time in the Dream Team by France Football," Ronaldo said on Instagram. "I gave my life for football and followed my dreams. No matter the obstacle I faced and the pain I had to overcome I was always focused to get where I wanted," he added. IN PICS | Postponements and resumption: A turbulent year of 2020 for sports world Juventus star Cristiano Ronaldo, who has won the Ballon d'Or five times, said: "I'm very honoured to be part of France Football's all-time 11. What an amazing Dream Team. They all deserve my respect and admiration and I'm obviously proud to be amongst such extraordinary players. Thank you!" ⭐After the votes of 140 journalists from all around the world, here is the #BOdreamteam with 11 best players of all time ! ⭐ pic.twitter.com/FsKAoSyGZL — France Football (@francefootball) December 14, 2020 × Ballon d'Or Dream Team Goalkeeper: Lev Yashin. Defenders: Cafú, Franz Beckenbauer, and Paolo Maldini. Midfielders: Lothar Matthäus, Xavi, Pelé, and Maradona. Forwards: Lionel Messi, Ronaldo Nazário, and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Messi, Ronaldo, Maradona, Pele all feature in Ballon d'Or Dream Team - Check full XI

<p>Seven-times world champion Lewis Hamilton is hoping to have his future sorted by Christmas now that the Formula One season is over.</p>

<p>The most successful driver in the history of the sport and his Mercedes team, winner of both titles for an unprecedented seventh year in succession, still have to sit down and put pen to paper.</p>

<p>Hamilton is otherwise out of contract in a few weeks’ time.</p>

<p>The issue, even if it looks a foregone conclusion, is the biggest question of several remaining to be answered around the paddock.</p>

<p>“I plan to be here next year. I want to be here next year,” said Hamilton, 35, after finishing third in Sunday’s Abu Dhabi finale.</p>

<p>“Us, as a team, have more to do together and more to achieve both in the sport but even more outside the sport I think. I hope we can begin discussions this week and hopefully get it tied up before Christmas.”</p>

<p>The Briton had put off talks while he focused on the championship and then COVID-19 got in the way, with Hamilton testing positive in Bahrain and going into 10 days of quarantine.</p>

<p>Team boss Toto Wolff said there was no concern.</p>

<p>“It is going to happen. There is no reason it shouldn’t happen now,” he told reporters.</p>

<p>“We’ll have this conversation. We always said that we will do it after the title was won and then the virus delayed us for another 10 days, two weeks and now we just have to sit down, maybe virtually or maybe live.”</p>

<p>Championship runners-up Red Bull must decide who is going to partner Sunday’s race winner Max Verstappen next season with Thai racer Alexander Albon the incumbent but Mexican Sergio Perez in the frame.</p>

<p>Team boss Christian Horner said Albon’s performance in Abu Dhabi was probably his “strongest collective weekend of the season.</p>

<p>“That now gives us a complete set of information to go away and analyse and work out what we are going to do. It’s not going to take too long,” he added.</p>

<p>Williams’s new U.S.-based owners Dorilton Capital have to decide the team’s leadership structure after ending the season under acting principal Simon Roberts.</p>

<p>“We’re working on that right now but I can’t say anything about it this weekend,” Roberts said in Abu Dhabi. “Lots of discussion with Dorilton and when we’re ready we’ll be able to announce how we intend to move forward.”</p>

<p>Ferrari are meanwhile looking for a replacement for CEO Louis Camilleri after he announced his sudden retirement last week for personal reasons.</p>

<p>Haas have private business with Russian driver Nikita Mazepin after condemning the posting of a video on his social media of a female passenger being groped in the back of a car.</p>

<p>“It is still in my pending tray,” said team boss Guenther Steiner.</p>

<p>Formula One, under the new leadership of Stefano Domenicali from January, has also an April 25 slot on the 2021 calendar to fill and no shortage of candidates for a date originally set aside for Vietnam’s now-postponed debut.</p>


Seven-times world champion Lewis Hamilton is hoping to have his future sorted by Christmas now that the Formula One season is over. The most successful driver in the history of the sport and his Mercedes team, winner of both titles for an unprecedented seventh year in succession, still have to sit down and put pen to paper.

Seven-times world champion Lewis Hamilton is hoping to have his future sorted by Christmas now that the Formula One season is over. The most successful driver in the history of the sport and his Mercedes team, winner of both titles for an unprecedented seventh year in succession, still have to sit down and put pen to paper. Hamilton is otherwise out of contract in a few weeks’ time. The issue, even if it looks a foregone conclusion, is the biggest question of several remaining to be answered around the paddock. “I plan to be here next year. I want to be here next year,” said Hamilton, 35, after finishing third in Sunday’s Abu Dhabi finale. “Us, as a team, have more to do together and more to achieve both in the sport but even more outside the sport I think. I hope we can begin discussions this week and hopefully get it tied up before Christmas.” The Briton had put off talks while he focused on the championship and then COVID-19 got in the way, with Hamilton testing positive in Bahrain and going into 10 days of quarantine. Team boss Toto Wolff said there was no concern. “It is going to happen. There is no reason it shouldn’t happen now,” he told reporters. “We’ll have this conversation. We always said that we will do it after the title was won and then the virus delayed us for another 10 days, two weeks and now we just have to sit down, maybe virtually or maybe live.” Championship runners-up Red Bull must decide who is going to partner Sunday’s race winner Max Verstappen next season with Thai racer Alexander Albon the incumbent but Mexican Sergio Perez in the frame. Team boss Christian Horner said Albon’s performance in Abu Dhabi was probably his “strongest collective weekend of the season. “That now gives us a complete set of information to go away and analyse and work out what we are going to do. It’s not going to take too long,” he added. Williams’s new U.S.-based owners Dorilton Capital have to decide the team’s leadership structure after ending the season under acting principal Simon Roberts. “We’re working on that right now but I can’t say anything about it this weekend,” Roberts said in Abu Dhabi. “Lots of discussion with Dorilton and when we’re ready we’ll be able to announce how we intend to move forward.” Ferrari are meanwhile looking for a replacement for CEO Louis Camilleri after he announced his sudden retirement last week for personal reasons. Haas have private business with Russian driver Nikita Mazepin after condemning the posting of a video on his social media of a female passenger being groped in the back of a car. “It is still in my pending tray,” said team boss Guenther Steiner. Formula One, under the new leadership of Stefano Domenicali from January, has also an April 25 slot on the 2021 calendar to fill and no shortage of candidates for a date originally set aside for Vietnam’s now-postponed debut.

Hamilton contract top of the agenda now F1 season is done

<p>Barcelona will hold presidential elections on January 24 after the managerial committee which has run the club since Josep Maria Bartomeu's October resignation agreed on the date.</p>

<p>"The Management Committee has agreed to call elections for the club's presidency and Board of Directors. Voting will be held on January 24, 2021," the body said in a statement.</p>

<p>The final approval comes after Barca reached an agreement with the Catalan regional government two weeks ago.</p>

<p>Coronavirus concerns have made this the first time the club's elections have been decentralised, with 10 voting locations for Barca's 110,000 members dotted around Spain.</p>

<p>They can cast their vote at Barca's Camp Nou as well as in the cities of Girona, Tarragona, Tortosa, Lleida, Madrid, Valencia, Seville, Palma and Andorran capital Andorra la Vella.</p>

<p>Among the seven candidates for election is former president Joan Laporta, who made his candidacy official two weeks ago.</p>

<p>Laporta was at the helm from 2003-2010, a period which included four La Liga titles and two Champions League triumphs.</p>


Barcelona will hold presidential elections on January 24 after the managerial committee which has run the club since Josep Maria Bartomeu's October resignation agreed on the date.

Barcelona will hold presidential elections on January 24 after the managerial committee which has run the club since Josep Maria Bartomeu's October resignation agreed on the date. "The Management Committee has agreed to call elections for the club's presidency and Board of Directors. Voting will be held on January 24, 2021," the body said in a statement. The final approval comes after Barca reached an agreement with the Catalan regional government two weeks ago. Coronavirus concerns have made this the first time the club's elections have been decentralised, with 10 voting locations for Barca's 110,000 members dotted around Spain. They can cast their vote at Barca's Camp Nou as well as in the cities of Girona, Tarragona, Tortosa, Lleida, Madrid, Valencia, Seville, Palma and Andorran capital Andorra la Vella. Among the seven candidates for election is former president Joan Laporta, who made his candidacy official two weeks ago. Laporta was at the helm from 2003-2010, a period which included four La Liga titles and two Champions League triumphs.

Barca confirm presidential elections on January 24

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Zee News Rajasthan

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Subhayan Chakraborty

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