Juventus president Andrea Agnelli said Monday the Italian champions were awaiting an answer from Argentina forward Paulo Dybala on a contract offer which would make him "among the 20 highest paid footballers in Europe".

Dybala scored his first Serie A goal in five months on Sunday during a 3-1 win over Genoa, telling journalists afterwards he had received no news on an extension to his current deal which expires in June 2022.

"So many things that aren't true have been said in relation to my contract," he said.

Agnelli insisted on Monday the 27-year-old, who suffered with coronavirus for six weeks earlier this year, "has already received an offer that places him among the 20 highest paid in Europe".

"We are calmly awaiting an answer," Agnelli said during an awards ceremony in Turin.

"The positive news is the return to scoring. Paulo had a tough time after the coronavirus, with a slow recovery.

"I was delighted to hear his declaration of love for Juve, it's reciprocated. We see Paulo as a future captain of the team. Already now he often wears the armband.

"He knows he has the offer, we are waiting serenely for an answer."

Dybala joined Juventus from Palermo in 2015 and has scored 97 goals for the club, winning eight major trophies, including five Serie A titles.

He has often been linked with a move away in recent months and was reportedly close to signing for Premier League sides Manchester United and Tottenham last year.

"We are also waiting for one (response) on the pitch, his ambition is to be among the top five (players) in the world, and we want to support him. He is still not there and he knows this," added Agnelli.

Juventus president Andrea Agnelli said Monday the Italian champions were awaiting an answer from Argentina forward Paulo Dybala on a contract offer which would make him "among the 20 highest paid footballers in Europe".

Juventus president Andrea Agnelli said Monday the Italian champions were awaiting an answer from Argentina forward Paulo Dybala on a contract offer which would make him "among the 20 highest paid footballers in Europe". Dybala scored his first Serie A goal in five months on Sunday during a 3-1 win over Genoa, telling journalists afterwards he had received no news on an extension to his current deal which expires in June 2022. "So many things that aren't true have been said in relation to my contract," he said. Agnelli insisted on Monday the 27-year-old, who suffered with coronavirus for six weeks earlier this year, "has already received an offer that places him among the 20 highest paid in Europe". "We are calmly awaiting an answer," Agnelli said during an awards ceremony in Turin. "The positive news is the return to scoring. Paulo had a tough time after the coronavirus, with a slow recovery. "I was delighted to hear his declaration of love for Juve, it's reciprocated. We see Paulo as a future captain of the team. Already now he often wears the armband. "He knows he has the offer, we are waiting serenely for an answer." Dybala joined Juventus from Palermo in 2015 and has scored 97 goals for the club, winning eight major trophies, including five Serie A titles. He has often been linked with a move away in recent months and was reportedly close to signing for Premier League sides Manchester United and Tottenham last year. "We are also waiting for one (response) on the pitch, his ambition is to be among the top five (players) in the world, and we want to support him. He is still not there and he knows this," added Agnelli.

Juve awaiting Dybala response on contract offer, says Agnelli

French giants Paris Saint-Germain have told their stores around the French capital to gear up for a growth in business around shirt sales as PSG grow confident of signing Lionel Messi from Barcelona on a free transfer in the summer transfer window of 2021, according to Football Transfers.

Messi, in 2020, publicly cleared that he is unhappy at Barcelona after staying at Camp Nou for two decades. He was on the verge of leaving Barcelona in summer before legal obligations made him to stay at the Catalan club.

The six-time Ballon d’Or winner is out of contract at the end of 2020-21 season and is likely to not pen a new deal.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/under-fire-arteta-vows-to-stop-arsenal-blip-349985" hreflang="en">Under-fire Arteta vows to stop Arsenal 'blip'</a>

Barcelona officials have admitted that Messi will require to take a pay cut if he wants to remain at the club with their poor run of form on the pitch pushing Messi away from the Blaugrana.

PSG, along with Manchester City are one of the two clubs ready to pounce on Messi if he decides to move next summer.&nbsp;

PSG have told their partner stores to get ready for a flood of interest ahead of the once in a lifetime deal.

However, it would be interesting to see whether Neymar leaves his no. 10 jersey for Messi if PSG manage to sign the Argentine.

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>

PSG signing Messi would mean that the French club would be able to field the blockbuster troika of Neymar, Mbappe and Messi and fight more for their dream of lifting the UEFA Champions League.&nbsp;

Before that, PSG will have to face Messi in Barcelona jersey after the two teams were pitted against each other in the Round of 16 of UEFA Champions League 2020-21 season.

French giants Paris Saint-Germain have told their stores around the French capital to gear up for a growth in business around shirt sales as PSG grow confident of signing Lionel Messi from Barcelona on a free transfer in the summer transfer window of 2021, according to Football Transfers.

French giants Paris Saint-Germain have told their stores around the French capital to gear up for a growth in business around shirt sales as PSG grow confident of signing Lionel Messi from Barcelona on a free transfer in the summer transfer window of 2021, according to Football Transfers. Messi, in 2020, publicly cleared that he is unhappy at Barcelona after staying at Camp Nou for two decades. He was on the verge of leaving Barcelona in summer before legal obligations made him to stay at the Catalan club. The six-time Ballon d’Or winner is out of contract at the end of 2020-21 season and is likely to not pen a new deal. ALSO READ: Under-fire Arteta vows to stop Arsenal 'blip' Barcelona officials have admitted that Messi will require to take a pay cut if he wants to remain at the club with their poor run of form on the pitch pushing Messi away from the Blaugrana. PSG, along with Manchester City are one of the two clubs ready to pounce on Messi if he decides to move next summer. PSG have told their partner stores to get ready for a flood of interest ahead of the once in a lifetime deal. However, it would be interesting to see whether Neymar leaves his no. 10 jersey for Messi if PSG manage to sign the Argentine. ALSO READ: From taking the knee to joining protests: Athletes who contributed to 'Black Lives Matter' movement PSG signing Messi would mean that the French club would be able to field the blockbuster troika of Neymar, Mbappe and Messi and fight more for their dream of lifting the UEFA Champions League. Before that, PSG will have to face Messi in Barcelona jersey after the two teams were pitted against each other in the Round of 16 of UEFA Champions League 2020-21 season.

Lionel Messi to PSG? French club tell stores to be ready for blockbuster announcement

Mikel Arteta insists he is strong enough to cope with the pressure of Arsenal's dismal run as the Gunners boss dismissed their recent struggles as merely a "blip".

Arteta has faced calls for his sacking after Sunday's 1-0 home defeat against Burnley condemned Arsenal to their worst start to a season since 1974.

Arsenal have lost their last four home league games -- their worst sequence since 1959 -- and another defeat at the Emirates Stadium against in-form Southampton on Wednesday would pile further pressure on Arteta.

The Spaniard was given a vote of confidence by Arsenal technical director Edu on Monday, but Arteta admitted he had to shoulder the responsiblity for the team's five-match winless run in the league.

Adamant he still retains the backing of his players, Arteta told reporters on Tuesday: "My feeling is yes but this is a question for them obviously.

"When I see the reaction and the way they try, there's not one bit that worries me that they're not trying their best, that's for sure.

"And in terms of Edu and (Manchester City manager) Pep (Guardiola), they obviously showed their appreciation, because in good moments it's very easy.&nbsp;

"In difficult moments when you have people like them giving you support and two people that know very, very well what we've been through here, obviously it's much appreciated."

<h2>- 'Take the bullets' -</h2>

Languishing in 15th place after seven defeats in their first 12 league games, Arsenal are closer to the relegation zone than the top four.

Arteta is not concerned that Arsenal now face an unthinkable relegation battle and is confident that results will turn soon.

"I want to think that we are in a blip, losing football matches makes me believe that but we need to start to win," he said.

"Because just dropping and dropping down the table is not the situation we want to be in.

"But this is our reality right now and we have to face it and we have to face it being brave, fighting and no one giving up or anything.

"It's not time to hide, it's time to put your face and your body on the line and at the moment, I'm sorry, but we have to take the bullets.

Arteta said he accepted that he bore "maximum responsibility" for the bad results.

"At the end of the day you have to win football matches and this club is too big to accept this many losses in the last weeks. So my chest is here and hit me, guys."

Granit Xhaka's needless red card for grabbing Burnley's Ashley Westwood around the neck played a key role in Arsenal's latest flop.

Angry Arsenal fans have called for the volatile Swiss midfielder to be sold, but he retains Arteta's support for now.

Asked if Xhaka had apologised to Arteta and his team-mates, the Arsenal boss said the matter had been resolved "internally".

"He has had tough times here and he's not the only one, there's a lot of players that have had rocky moments.

"But what I can say about Granit is that his professionalism and his commitment with the club and with his team-mates is maximal.

"He knows and we all know that he had a moment where he's lost it and I know the reason why. But what I cannot do is just throw everything that he has done away because he's made a mistake."

Mikel Arteta insists he is strong enough to cope with the pressure of Arsenal's dismal run as the Gunners boss dismissed their recent struggles as merely a "blip".

Mikel Arteta insists he is strong enough to cope with the pressure of Arsenal's dismal run as the Gunners boss dismissed their recent struggles as merely a "blip". Arteta has faced calls for his sacking after Sunday's 1-0 home defeat against Burnley condemned Arsenal to their worst start to a season since 1974. Arsenal have lost their last four home league games -- their worst sequence since 1959 -- and another defeat at the Emirates Stadium against in-form Southampton on Wednesday would pile further pressure on Arteta. The Spaniard was given a vote of confidence by Arsenal technical director Edu on Monday, but Arteta admitted he had to shoulder the responsiblity for the team's five-match winless run in the league. Adamant he still retains the backing of his players, Arteta told reporters on Tuesday: "My feeling is yes but this is a question for them obviously. "When I see the reaction and the way they try, there's not one bit that worries me that they're not trying their best, that's for sure. "And in terms of Edu and (Manchester City manager) Pep (Guardiola), they obviously showed their appreciation, because in good moments it's very easy. "In difficult moments when you have people like them giving you support and two people that know very, very well what we've been through here, obviously it's much appreciated." - 'Take the bullets' - Languishing in 15th place after seven defeats in their first 12 league games, Arsenal are closer to the relegation zone than the top four. Arteta is not concerned that Arsenal now face an unthinkable relegation battle and is confident that results will turn soon. "I want to think that we are in a blip, losing football matches makes me believe that but we need to start to win," he said. "Because just dropping and dropping down the table is not the situation we want to be in. "But this is our reality right now and we have to face it and we have to face it being brave, fighting and no one giving up or anything. "It's not time to hide, it's time to put your face and your body on the line and at the moment, I'm sorry, but we have to take the bullets. Arteta said he accepted that he bore "maximum responsibility" for the bad results. "At the end of the day you have to win football matches and this club is too big to accept this many losses in the last weeks. So my chest is here and hit me, guys." Granit Xhaka's needless red card for grabbing Burnley's Ashley Westwood around the neck played a key role in Arsenal's latest flop. Angry Arsenal fans have called for the volatile Swiss midfielder to be sold, but he retains Arteta's support for now. Asked if Xhaka had apologised to Arteta and his team-mates, the Arsenal boss said the matter had been resolved "internally". "He has had tough times here and he's not the only one, there's a lot of players that have had rocky moments. "But what I can say about Granit is that his professionalism and his commitment with the club and with his team-mates is maximal. "He knows and we all know that he had a moment where he's lost it and I know the reason why. But what I cannot do is just throw everything that he has done away because he's made a mistake."

Under-fire Arteta vows to stop Arsenal 'blip'

Former Bangladesh captain Mushfiqur Rahim apologised to a teammate Tuesday after an angry confrontation during a Twenty20 tournament.

The 33-year-old wicketkeeper turned on Nasum Ahmed after the two nearly collided while going for a catch.

Mushfiqur made the catch, but then shied as if to throw the ball at Nasum, or land a blow.

He faced a storm of social media criticism for his behaviour during the Bangabandhu Twenty20 Cup game between his Beximco Dhaka side and Fortune Barishal.

Bangladesh's most capped player was fined by the match referee after the game.

"First of all... I would like to apologise to all my fans and spectators regarding the incident that happened yesterday," Mushfiqur wrote on his Facebook page.

"I have already apologised after the game to my fellow team-mate Nasum.

"I am a human being above all and the gesture that I have shown was not acceptable. I promise it won't be repeated."&nbsp;

The post was accompanied by a photo of Mushfiq and Nasum.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board fined Mushfiqur a quarter of his match fee.

"We considered his track record, which is good,” said match referee Roqibul Hasan, "but he was warned that if the act is repeated he would be in trouble,".&nbsp;

Beximco Dhaka won the game by nine runs to qualify for the December 18 final of the tournament.

Former Bangladesh captain Mushfiqur Rahim apologised to a teammate Tuesday after an angry confrontation during a Twenty20 tournament. The 33-year-old wicketkeeper turned on Nasum Ahmed after the two nearly collided while going for a catch.

Former Bangladesh captain Mushfiqur Rahim apologised to a teammate Tuesday after an angry confrontation during a Twenty20 tournament. The 33-year-old wicketkeeper turned on Nasum Ahmed after the two nearly collided while going for a catch. Mushfiqur made the catch, but then shied as if to throw the ball at Nasum, or land a blow. He faced a storm of social media criticism for his behaviour during the Bangabandhu Twenty20 Cup game between his Beximco Dhaka side and Fortune Barishal. Bangladesh's most capped player was fined by the match referee after the game. "First of all... I would like to apologise to all my fans and spectators regarding the incident that happened yesterday," Mushfiqur wrote on his Facebook page. "I have already apologised after the game to my fellow team-mate Nasum. "I am a human being above all and the gesture that I have shown was not acceptable. I promise it won't be repeated." The post was accompanied by a photo of Mushfiq and Nasum. The Bangladesh Cricket Board fined Mushfiqur a quarter of his match fee. "We considered his track record, which is good,” said match referee Roqibul Hasan, "but he was warned that if the act is repeated he would be in trouble,". Beximco Dhaka won the game by nine runs to qualify for the December 18 final of the tournament.

Bangladesh star apologises after confrontation with teammate

Former India batsman Suresh Raina is all set to represent his home state of Uttar Pradesh in the much-awaited Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy which is slated to take place in January next year. Raina announced his retirement from international cricket in August 2020, but the World Cup-winning cricketer will continue to play domestic cricket for his native state of Uttar Pradesh and in the Indian Premier League.&nbsp; 
 
Raina shared the news with his fans on Twitter through images of his training in the nets. Even though Raina hasn’t played competitive cricket for the past one year, he has been training hard in the gym and keeping himself fit for the upcoming domestic season in India.

"All set for the camp, warming up for the upcoming season among the lions of&nbsp;@UPCACricket! #AllSet #Goals #Cricket #Passion #BigGoals," Raina tweeted.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-turned-foes-to-friends-says-allan-border-ahead-of-india-vs-australia-series-349965" hreflang="en">IPL turned foes to friends, says Allan Border ahead of India vs Australia series</a>

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All set for the camp, warming up for the upcoming season among the lions of <a href="https://twitter.com/UPCACricket?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UPCACricket</a> ! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AllSet?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AllSet</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Goals?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Goals</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cricket</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Passion?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Passion</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BigGoals?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BigGoals</a> <a href="https://t.co/Fe0jvNBZ7q">pic.twitter.com/Fe0jvNBZ7q</a>
— Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRaina/status/1338055457190055937?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Raina couldn't participate in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 as he flew back to India citing personal problems. In Raina's absence, Chennai Super Kings failed to qualify to the playoffs for the first time in IPL history. While Raina has been out of professional cricket for more than a year now, fans are eagerly waiting to catch a glimpse of the iconic southpaw.&nbsp;

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>

The BCCI had to postpone the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy to January 2021 because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The tournament is set to be played across six states from January 10th to January 31st 2021.

Former India batsman Suresh Raina is all set to represent his home state of Uttar Pradesh in the much-awaited Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy which is slated to take place in January next year.

Former India batsman Suresh Raina is all set to represent his home state of Uttar Pradesh in the much-awaited Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy which is slated to take place in January next year. Raina announced his retirement from international cricket in August 2020, but the World Cup-winning cricketer will continue to play domestic cricket for his native state of Uttar Pradesh and in the Indian Premier League. Raina shared the news with his fans on Twitter through images of his training in the nets. Even though Raina hasn’t played competitive cricket for the past one year, he has been training hard in the gym and keeping himself fit for the upcoming domestic season in India. "All set for the camp, warming up for the upcoming season among the lions of @UPCACricket! #AllSet #Goals #Cricket #Passion #BigGoals," Raina tweeted. ALSO READ: IPL turned foes to friends, says Allan Border ahead of India vs Australia series All set for the camp, warming up for the upcoming season among the lions of @UPCACricket ! #AllSet #Goals #Cricket #Passion #BigGoals pic.twitter.com/Fe0jvNBZ7q — Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) December 13, 2020 × Raina couldn't participate in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 as he flew back to India citing personal problems. In Raina's absence, Chennai Super Kings failed to qualify to the playoffs for the first time in IPL history. While Raina has been out of professional cricket for more than a year now, fans are eagerly waiting to catch a glimpse of the iconic southpaw. ALSO READ: Warne vs Tendulkar, 'Monkeygate': 5 classic Australia vs India encounters The BCCI had to postpone the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy to January 2021 because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The tournament is set to be played across six states from January 10th to January 31st 2021.

Suresh Raina all set to make comeback in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy

Sticking to the original plan before the Tokyo Olympics was postponed until 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the organisers on Tuesday said that the Olympic flame will still visit Japan’s 47 prefectures during the traditional torch relay starting on March 25.

The torch relay was scheduled to commence in March 2020 but the International Olympic Committee and the Japanese government took the unprecedented decision to postpone the Games.

With concerns surrounding the rising cases in Japan and COVID-19 restrictions in the country, organisers on Tuesday announced that the 121-day tour, which starts in Fukushima and ends in Tokyo’s National Stadium during the Games opening ceremony on July 23, will go ahead as scheduled.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/messi-ronaldo-maradona-pele-all-feature-in-ballon-dor-dream-team-check-full-xi-349894" hreflang="en">Messi, Ronaldo, Maradona, Pele all feature in Ballon d'Or Dream Team - Check full XI</a>

The announcement by the organisers came after a poll by NHK broadcaster showed a third of Japanese locals wanting the Tokyo Games to be scrapped amid fears that foreign visitors may cause a further spike in coronavirus cases.

"We want to make sure that everyone's health is secure -- the spectators, the torchbearers, the officials and the citizens in the local areas," said Tokyo Games Vice-Director General Yukihiko Nunomura.

"We want the runners to smile and we want the spectators to smile as they welcome the torch. We want to generate excitement so that people really feel that the Tokyo Olympics are coming."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/thishappened2020-kohli-dhoni-most-mentioned-athletes-on-twitter-ipl-2020-most-tweeted-sports-hashtags-349661" hreflang="en">#ThisHappened2020: Kohli, Dhoni most mentioned athletes on Twitter, IPL 2020 most tweeted sports hashtags</a>

With Japan battling the third wave of infections, the NHK poll, conducted from December 11-13, showed 32 per cent of respondents wanting the Tokyo Olympics to be cancelled entirely.&nbsp;

Only 27% said they should go ahead as scheduled and 31% favoured another delay.

To mark 100 days until the start of the tour, Tokyo Skytree, the tallest tower in the world was illuminated on Tuesday.

Organisers said the full relay route would be announced in February.

Sticking to the original plan before the Tokyo Olympics was postponed until 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the organisers on Tuesday said that the Olympic flame will still visit Japan’s 47 prefectures during the traditional torch relay starting on March 25.

Sticking to the original plan before the Tokyo Olympics was postponed until 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the organisers on Tuesday said that the Olympic flame will still visit Japan’s 47 prefectures during the traditional torch relay starting on March 25. The torch relay was scheduled to commence in March 2020 but the International Olympic Committee and the Japanese government took the unprecedented decision to postpone the Games. With concerns surrounding the rising cases in Japan and COVID-19 restrictions in the country, organisers on Tuesday announced that the 121-day tour, which starts in Fukushima and ends in Tokyo’s National Stadium during the Games opening ceremony on July 23, will go ahead as scheduled. ALSO READ: Messi, Ronaldo, Maradona, Pele all feature in Ballon d'Or Dream Team - Check full XI The announcement by the organisers came after a poll by NHK broadcaster showed a third of Japanese locals wanting the Tokyo Games to be scrapped amid fears that foreign visitors may cause a further spike in coronavirus cases. "We want to make sure that everyone's health is secure -- the spectators, the torchbearers, the officials and the citizens in the local areas," said Tokyo Games Vice-Director General Yukihiko Nunomura. "We want the runners to smile and we want the spectators to smile as they welcome the torch. We want to generate excitement so that people really feel that the Tokyo Olympics are coming." ALSO READ: #ThisHappened2020: Kohli, Dhoni most mentioned athletes on Twitter, IPL 2020 most tweeted sports hashtags With Japan battling the third wave of infections, the NHK poll, conducted from December 11-13, showed 32 per cent of respondents wanting the Tokyo Olympics to be cancelled entirely. Only 27% said they should go ahead as scheduled and 31% favoured another delay. To mark 100 days until the start of the tour, Tokyo Skytree, the tallest tower in the world was illuminated on Tuesday. Organisers said the full relay route would be announced in February.

'Want to generate excitement': Organisers say Olympic flame will still visit every corner of Japan

Former Australian captain Allan Border has acknowledged the contribution of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL)</a> in breaking the ice between Indian and Australian players while cooling down the tempers that used to flare on the pitch.&nbsp;

Australia and India are set to take on each other in a four-match Test series starting Thursday at the Adelaide Oval. Border, while speaking during a media interaction, said that there was a clash of cultures earlier but the rivalry was always competitive while adding that IPL ended that barrier between players.

“I think Sunny (Sunil Gavaskar) talked about (in a media article) that there was always a little bit of clash, clash of cultures between Australians and Indians. We play the game a certain way, we are brought up to play the game in an aggressive manner. We use swear words a lot in our natural conversation without meaning anything by it. Whereas in India, sometimes the players used to take offence with the way we were,” Border said.

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/warner-vs-tendulkar-monkeygate-5-classic-australia-vs-india-encounters-349950" hreflang="en">Warner vs Tendulkar, 'Monkeygate': 5 classic Australia vs India encounters</a>

“That clash of cultures has been addressed in recent times because of the IPL. Because you have got Australians and South Africans and Indians, the different cultures playing in one franchise you get to know each other a lot better. The appreciation is what makes different people tick when you are in the same dressing room compared to opposing dressing rooms. I think that has helped the Indians and Australians and the way, the mannerisms out in the field. But don’t mistake the smiling assassins (Tim Paine’s Australians). They will be friendly alright but they will be keen to be the Australian boys because they really rate this series very highly,” added Border.

The former Australian admitted that Virat Kohli perfectly represents the changing face of Indian cricket, backing Greg Chappell’s comments of Kohli being the most Australian non-Australian. Border said Kohli’s involvement in the game sets him apart from his peers and added that he likes Kohli’s passion on the field.&nbsp;

“We just love the way he plays cricket. You can see in his body language out on the ground. He lives and breathes every minute. He is out there, he just loves it. There is a bit more chat out on the ground. He talks to his own players and opposition. He is in the contest more so than the other Indian players we have seen in the past,” said Border before describing the new Indian cricketer.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-ricky-ponting-picks-his-australia-playing-xi-for-dn-test-349918" hreflang="en">IND vs AUS: Ricky Ponting picks his Australia playing XI for D/N Test</a>

“What we talk in this country is about the new Indian cricketer. He has got tattoes. Married to a Bollywood actress. He is a very feisty competitor and not to say that other Indians aren’t like that. But he just wears his heart on the sleeve. I suppose he tends to play cricket like some of us tend to. He is very much liked in these shores. He is a seriously good player — that is obviously there, but I like that passion he brings to the game,” added Border.

Former Australian captain Allan Border has acknowledged the contribution of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in breaking the ice between Indian and Australian players while cooling down the tempers that used to flare on the pitch.

Former Australian captain Allan Border has acknowledged the contribution of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in breaking the ice between Indian and Australian players while cooling down the tempers that used to flare on the pitch. Australia and India are set to take on each other in a four-match Test series starting Thursday at the Adelaide Oval. Border, while speaking during a media interaction, said that there was a clash of cultures earlier but the rivalry was always competitive while adding that IPL ended that barrier between players. “I think Sunny (Sunil Gavaskar) talked about (in a media article) that there was always a little bit of clash, clash of cultures between Australians and Indians. We play the game a certain way, we are brought up to play the game in an aggressive manner. We use swear words a lot in our natural conversation without meaning anything by it. Whereas in India, sometimes the players used to take offence with the way we were,” Border said. IN PICS | Warner vs Tendulkar, 'Monkeygate': 5 classic Australia vs India encounters “That clash of cultures has been addressed in recent times because of the IPL. Because you have got Australians and South Africans and Indians, the different cultures playing in one franchise you get to know each other a lot better. The appreciation is what makes different people tick when you are in the same dressing room compared to opposing dressing rooms. I think that has helped the Indians and Australians and the way, the mannerisms out in the field. But don’t mistake the smiling assassins (Tim Paine’s Australians). They will be friendly alright but they will be keen to be the Australian boys because they really rate this series very highly,” added Border. The former Australian admitted that Virat Kohli perfectly represents the changing face of Indian cricket, backing Greg Chappell’s comments of Kohli being the most Australian non-Australian. Border said Kohli’s involvement in the game sets him apart from his peers and added that he likes Kohli’s passion on the field. “We just love the way he plays cricket. You can see in his body language out on the ground. He lives and breathes every minute. He is out there, he just loves it. There is a bit more chat out on the ground. He talks to his own players and opposition. He is in the contest more so than the other Indian players we have seen in the past,” said Border before describing the new Indian cricketer. ALSO READ: IND vs AUS: Ricky Ponting picks his Australia playing XI for D/N Test “What we talk in this country is about the new Indian cricketer. He has got tattoes. Married to a Bollywood actress. He is a very feisty competitor and not to say that other Indians aren’t like that. But he just wears his heart on the sleeve. I suppose he tends to play cricket like some of us tend to. He is very much liked in these shores. He is a seriously good player — that is obviously there, but I like that passion he brings to the game,” added Border.

IPL turned foes to friends, says Allan Border ahead of India vs Australia series

Warne vs Tendulkar, 'Monkeygate': 5 classic Australia vs India encounters

Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting has picked his Aussie playing XI for the Adelaide Test against India, starting from December 17. With Australia struggling to field their best XI due to injuries, Ponting has come up with a strong yet interesting playing XI with a surprise pick to replace the injured David Warner.&nbsp;

Ponting was known for his aggressive captaincy and brave calls on the field and that reflects on the Australian playing XI he picked for the Adelaide Test against India. The former Aussie skipper has backed out-of-form Joe Burns to open the innings while coming up with the interesting suggestion to pick Matthew Wade as his partner.

ALSO READ:&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>

Continuing his team, Ponting picked the likes of Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith at number three and four respectively before naming Travis Head, Cameron Green (if passed fit) and skipper Tim Paine. Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon complete Ponting’s Australia XI for Adelaide Test.

“I’ll have a lot of messages and suggestions coming my way that he (Burns) hasn’t scored enough runs to stay in the side, but I’m keeping him in there. 40 in his last Test innings, he’s made four-Test match hundreds, averages almost 40 – I’m sticking with him and showing some faith,” Ponting told 7Cricket.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-steve-smith-misses-crucial-net-session-due-to-lower-back-soreness-349905" hreflang="en">IND vs AUS: Steve Smith misses crucial net session due to lower-back soreness</a>

Ponting added, "What I am doing is moving Matthew Wade up to the top of the order. It gives a left-hand, right-hand combination. We saw last time India were out here, when we had two left-handers in our top order, the Indian bowling attack absolutely dominated the two lefties. I know I’ll cause a bit of a stir here, but that’s the way I’d go," stated the former right-handed batsman.

Ricky Ponting's Australia XI for the first Test vs India: Matthew Wade, Joe Burns, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Cameron Green (if fit), Tim Paine, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Nathan Lyon. 
&nbsp;

Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting has picked his Aussie playing XI for the Adelaide Test against India, starting from December 17. With Australia struggling to field their best XI due to injuries, Ponting has come up with a strong yet interesting playing XI with a surprise pick to replace the injured David Warner.

Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting has picked his Aussie playing XI for the Adelaide Test against India, starting from December 17. With Australia struggling to field their best XI due to injuries, Ponting has come up with a strong yet interesting playing XI with a surprise pick to replace the injured David Warner. Ponting was known for his aggressive captaincy and brave calls on the field and that reflects on the Australian playing XI he picked for the Adelaide Test against India. The former Aussie skipper has backed out-of-form Joe Burns to open the innings while coming up with the interesting suggestion to pick Matthew Wade as his partner. ALSO READ: Postponements and resumption: A turbulent year of 2020 for sports world Continuing his team, Ponting picked the likes of Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith at number three and four respectively before naming Travis Head, Cameron Green (if passed fit) and skipper Tim Paine. Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon complete Ponting’s Australia XI for Adelaide Test. “I’ll have a lot of messages and suggestions coming my way that he (Burns) hasn’t scored enough runs to stay in the side, but I’m keeping him in there. 40 in his last Test innings, he’s made four-Test match hundreds, averages almost 40 – I’m sticking with him and showing some faith,” Ponting told 7Cricket. ALSO READ: IND vs AUS: Steve Smith misses crucial net session due to lower-back soreness Ponting added, "What I am doing is moving Matthew Wade up to the top of the order. It gives a left-hand, right-hand combination. We saw last time India were out here, when we had two left-handers in our top order, the Indian bowling attack absolutely dominated the two lefties. I know I’ll cause a bit of a stir here, but that’s the way I’d go," stated the former right-handed batsman. Ricky Ponting's Australia XI for the first Test vs India: Matthew Wade, Joe Burns, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Cameron Green (if fit), Tim Paine, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Nathan Lyon.

IND vs AUS: Ricky Ponting picks his Australia playing XI for D/N Test

Giving a major headache to already injury-hit Australian squad, Steve Smith on Tuesday missed the major batting session ahead of the first Test of the four-match Border-Gavaskar series in Adelaide against India. Smith walked off the field after completing a couple of stretching and running drills and headed to the dressing room in some discomfort.&nbsp;

While the other Australian batsmen enjoyed a good batting session ahead of the series opener, Smith walked off to the dressing room with physiotherapist David Beakley to receive a “back rub” after suffering from lower-back soreness. The Aussie ace would not be training on Tuesday.

However, he is not believed to be in doubt for the Adelaide test and is expected to be back in the nets session tomorrow.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-announces-qualification-pathway-to-mens-t20-world-cup-2022-in-australia-349768" hreflang="en">ICC announces qualification pathway to men's T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia</a>

Smith has been among the runs since returning back from the one-year ban. He had defied all the odds to pile mammoth runs in the Ashes 2019 and has since carried on scoring runs in both red-ball and white-ball cricket.&nbsp;

In the recently concluded ODI and T20I series against India, Smith looked in great touch and is expected to be the backbone of the Aussie batting unit in the much-awaited Test series against India. He had scored consecutive 62-ball centuries in ODIs at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

TRENDING:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-mushfiqur-rahim-loses-cool-almost-hits-teammate-during-bangabandhu-t20-cup-349744" hreflang="en">WATCH: Mushfiqur Rahim loses cool, almost hits teammate during Bangabandhu T20 Cup</a>

Smith had revealed that second of those centuries came after he spent the morning of the match suffering from nausea and dizziness – for which he was treated hours before play started.

Australia are already without the likes of David Warner, Will Pucovski, Sean Abbott due to injuries.

There are further doubts over the participation of Cameron Green and Mitchell Starc with the latter having just joined the squad after a family illness.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Giving a major headache to already injury-hit Australian squad, Steve Smith on Tuesday missed the major batting session ahead of the first Test of the four-match Border-Gavaskar series in Adelaide against India.

Giving a major headache to already injury-hit Australian squad, Steve Smith on Tuesday missed the major batting session ahead of the first Test of the four-match Border-Gavaskar series in Adelaide against India. Smith walked off the field after completing a couple of stretching and running drills and headed to the dressing room in some discomfort. While the other Australian batsmen enjoyed a good batting session ahead of the series opener, Smith walked off to the dressing room with physiotherapist David Beakley to receive a “back rub” after suffering from lower-back soreness. The Aussie ace would not be training on Tuesday. However, he is not believed to be in doubt for the Adelaide test and is expected to be back in the nets session tomorrow. ALSO READ: ICC announces qualification pathway to men's T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia Smith has been among the runs since returning back from the one-year ban. He had defied all the odds to pile mammoth runs in the Ashes 2019 and has since carried on scoring runs in both red-ball and white-ball cricket. In the recently concluded ODI and T20I series against India, Smith looked in great touch and is expected to be the backbone of the Aussie batting unit in the much-awaited Test series against India. He had scored consecutive 62-ball centuries in ODIs at the Sydney Cricket Ground. TRENDING: WATCH: Mushfiqur Rahim loses cool, almost hits teammate during Bangabandhu T20 Cup Smith had revealed that second of those centuries came after he spent the morning of the match suffering from nausea and dizziness – for which he was treated hours before play started. Australia are already without the likes of David Warner, Will Pucovski, Sean Abbott due to injuries. There are further doubts over the participation of Cameron Green and Mitchell Starc with the latter having just joined the squad after a family illness.

IND vs AUS: Steve Smith misses crucial net session due to lower-back soreness

Four times Formula One world champion Sebastian Vettel bowed out of Ferrari on Sunday with one last, slightly wobbly, song of thanks over the radio in Italian and a large trophy as a parting gift.

The German, who had hoped to emulate boyhood hero and Ferrari great Michael Schumacher when he arrived at Maranello, finished 14th in the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and one place behind team mate Charles Leclerc.

“Grazie Seb,” was written on a pit board as the team assembled for a group photo accompanied by a large Champions League-style trophy celebrating Vettel’s 14 wins in six years in Italy.

Vettel, who is joining Aston Martin (the renamed Racing Point) next season, ranks third on the list of Ferrari’s all-time winners and is the most successful not to win a championship with them.

He also notched up 12 poles and 55 podiums for the Italian team as well as 14 fastest laps.

“It was an emotional day with the mechanics waving goodbye on the grid. I felt there was a different dynamic and tension there,” the German, who won his titles with Red Bull from 2010-13, told reporters.

“I am sad for the guys, I will miss them but also happy to embark on a new journey.”

After the race he gave a farewell rendition of ‘Azzurro’, a popular 1960s song by Adriano Celentano, on his slowing down lap.

“Every time I was really excited for some reason (at Ferrari) I started to sing and I think it was a nice way for one last time to sing again,” he said.

“I changed the lyrics so I hope I don’t get in trouble with copyright. I think it was a good way to express my gratitude for the team.”

Vettel said the trophy took him by surprise: “I’ve never finished P14 before and got a trophy so it was definitely a nice memory.”

He added that he had no regrets, but would miss the many friends he had made.

“I have learned so much from this team and they have given me so much. I am very grateful for that,” he said.

The pandemic-hit 2020 season, with Ferrari slumping to sixth overall and their worst performance in 40 years, was a poor reflection on the great times they had together, he added.

“I think nothing about today should get mentioned,” said the 33-year-old, whose lows have been more frequent than the highs of late.

“I think it was quite a bad and poor race from us but I enjoyed it.”

Four times Formula One world champion Sebastian Vettel bowed out of Ferrari on Sunday with one last, slightly wobbly, song of thanks over the radio in Italian and a large trophy as a parting gift.

Four times Formula One world champion Sebastian Vettel bowed out of Ferrari on Sunday with one last, slightly wobbly, song of thanks over the radio in Italian and a large trophy as a parting gift. The German, who had hoped to emulate boyhood hero and Ferrari great Michael Schumacher when he arrived at Maranello, finished 14th in the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and one place behind team mate Charles Leclerc. “Grazie Seb,” was written on a pit board as the team assembled for a group photo accompanied by a large Champions League-style trophy celebrating Vettel’s 14 wins in six years in Italy. Vettel, who is joining Aston Martin (the renamed Racing Point) next season, ranks third on the list of Ferrari’s all-time winners and is the most successful not to win a championship with them. He also notched up 12 poles and 55 podiums for the Italian team as well as 14 fastest laps. “It was an emotional day with the mechanics waving goodbye on the grid. I felt there was a different dynamic and tension there,” the German, who won his titles with Red Bull from 2010-13, told reporters. “I am sad for the guys, I will miss them but also happy to embark on a new journey.” After the race he gave a farewell rendition of ‘Azzurro’, a popular 1960s song by Adriano Celentano, on his slowing down lap. “Every time I was really excited for some reason (at Ferrari) I started to sing and I think it was a nice way for one last time to sing again,” he said. “I changed the lyrics so I hope I don’t get in trouble with copyright. I think it was a good way to express my gratitude for the team.” Vettel said the trophy took him by surprise: “I’ve never finished P14 before and got a trophy so it was definitely a nice memory.” He added that he had no regrets, but would miss the many friends he had made. “I have learned so much from this team and they have given me so much. I am very grateful for that,” he said. The pandemic-hit 2020 season, with Ferrari slumping to sixth overall and their worst performance in 40 years, was a poor reflection on the great times they had together, he added. “I think nothing about today should get mentioned,” said the 33-year-old, whose lows have been more frequent than the highs of late. “I think it was quite a bad and poor race from us but I enjoyed it.”

Vettel bows out of Ferrari with a song and a trophy

Lewis Hamilton wrapped up the Formula One season in Abu Dhabi on Sunday with his 165th podium finish and the after-effects of COVID-19 making themselves felt on his aching body.

Lewis Hamilton wrapped up the Formula One season in Abu Dhabi on Sunday with his 165th podium finish and the after-effects of COVID-19 making themselves felt on his aching body. The seven-times world champion, who missed last weekend’s Sakhir Grand Prix in Bahrain after contracting the new coronavirus, said the race had been a physical challenge and he was glad it was over. “Considering the past couple of weeks I’ve had I’m really generally happy with the weekend,” the Mercedes driver, who clinched his record-equalling seventh title in Turkey last month, told reporters. “That was a really hard race for me, physically. All year, physically I have been fine but today I definitely wasn’t. So, I’m just glad it’s over.” Hamilton finished third in a processional race, behind second-placed team mate Valtteri Bottas and Red Bull’s winner Max Verstappen. The most successful driver in the history of the sport had said on arrival in Abu Dhabi that he was not 100%, still feeling the effects of the virus in his lungs. Asked whether that had impacted on the race, Hamilton said it had. “Massively. I don’t think I’ve ever been so blown. My body is not feeling great,” he said. “But look on the bright side: I made it through and you know, I didn’t think any time last week I would be here so I am truly grateful for my health and to be alive. “Looking forward to recovering over the next period of time we have and getting back into training and get my body back to where I know it should be.” Third place meant Hamilton, who also started third, was unable to add to the 11 wins he has celebrated this season -- equalling the most he has ever won in a single year.

Hurting Hamilton wraps up the season with pain and a podium

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