Up to 4,000 spectators will be allowed to attend outdoor elite sports events in the lowest-risk tier one areas of England when a month-long national lockdown to contain the spread of COVID-19 is lifted on Dec. 2, the British government said on Monday.

As part of new COVID-19 restrictions, 2,000 fans or 50% of a stadium’s capacity - whichever is lower - can attend sporting events in tier two areas but none can do so in tier three areas, Britain’s Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said in a statement.

English Premier League matches have continued behind closed doors during the second lockdown announced on Nov. 1. Supporters have not been allowed into sporting venues since the first lockdown was announced in March, barring a few exceptions.

“I can confirm the national restrictions will end on Dec. 2 ... People can leave their home, subject to the rule of six,” British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said in a statement to the House of Commons.

“Wedding services, outdoor sports can resume. Leisure can resume. Sports will be able to resume inside in tier one and two with measures on social distancing.

“Enforcement will be strengthened with new powers to close down premises that pose a risk to public health.”

Members of Parliament are set to cast a vote on plans before they are confirmed and the government will announce on Thursday which areas will go into which tier.

<h2>GRASSROOTS SPORT</h2>

Indoor sport and physical activity will also resume but with some restrictions on activities due to the higher transmission risk of the novel coronavirus.

Gassroots sport will resume from Dec. 2 and gyms and leisure centres will be able to reopen across all tiers.

“This is a big step forward for sport. Bringing grassroots sport back was my number one priority,” Dowden said.

“I’m confident sports will take every step to ensure their fans are safe, and fans will play their part and look out for each other until we can safely get everyone back in.”

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“Our ambition remains to work with Government to increase attendance to more substantial levels. Until this can be done, many fans will be unable to attend games and our clubs will continue to operate matches at a financial loss.” it said.

“Our priority continues to be the agreement of a roadmap, with DCMS (Department for Digital, Culture, Media &amp; Sport) and the Sports Technology and Innovation Group, for pilot events that can help our clubs quickly scale up to larger capacities in line with the Sports Ground Safety Authority’s COVID-secure guidelines and beyond.

“Premier League clubs have a proven track record of achieving high-biosecurity standards and we believe we can play a significant role in the Government’s rapid turnaround testing initiative,” it added.

The Football League (EFL), which organises football in the Championship and lower two divisions, was also encouraged.

“Whilst today’s news is subject to regional restrictions, it is an important step in achieving a return to normal, alongside it being crucial to addressing the significant revenue gap left by a lack of spectators and other revenue streams as a result of the pandemic,” the league said.

Up to 4,000 spectators will be allowed to attend outdoor elite sports events in the lowest-risk tier one areas of England when a month-long national lockdown to contain the spread of COVID-19 is lifted on Dec.

Up to 4,000 spectators will be allowed to attend outdoor elite sports events in the lowest-risk tier one areas of England when a month-long national lockdown to contain the spread of COVID-19 is lifted on Dec. 2, the British government said on Monday. As part of new COVID-19 restrictions, 2,000 fans or 50% of a stadium’s capacity - whichever is lower - can attend sporting events in tier two areas but none can do so in tier three areas, Britain’s Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said in a statement. English Premier League matches have continued behind closed doors during the second lockdown announced on Nov. 1. Supporters have not been allowed into sporting venues since the first lockdown was announced in March, barring a few exceptions. “I can confirm the national restrictions will end on Dec. 2 ... People can leave their home, subject to the rule of six,” British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said in a statement to the House of Commons. “Wedding services, outdoor sports can resume. Leisure can resume. Sports will be able to resume inside in tier one and two with measures on social distancing. “Enforcement will be strengthened with new powers to close down premises that pose a risk to public health.” Members of Parliament are set to cast a vote on plans before they are confirmed and the government will announce on Thursday which areas will go into which tier. GRASSROOTS SPORT Indoor sport and physical activity will also resume but with some restrictions on activities due to the higher transmission risk of the novel coronavirus. Gassroots sport will resume from Dec. 2 and gyms and leisure centres will be able to reopen across all tiers. “This is a big step forward for sport. Bringing grassroots sport back was my number one priority,” Dowden said. “I’m confident sports will take every step to ensure their fans are safe, and fans will play their part and look out for each other until we can safely get everyone back in.” The Premier League welcomed the move but said it hoped to quickly move to bigger capacities. “Our ambition remains to work with Government to increase attendance to more substantial levels. Until this can be done, many fans will be unable to attend games and our clubs will continue to operate matches at a financial loss.” it said. “Our priority continues to be the agreement of a roadmap, with DCMS (Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport) and the Sports Technology and Innovation Group, for pilot events that can help our clubs quickly scale up to larger capacities in line with the Sports Ground Safety Authority’s COVID-secure guidelines and beyond. “Premier League clubs have a proven track record of achieving high-biosecurity standards and we believe we can play a significant role in the Government’s rapid turnaround testing initiative,” it added. The Football League (EFL), which organises football in the Championship and lower two divisions, was also encouraged. “Whilst today’s news is subject to regional restrictions, it is an important step in achieving a return to normal, alongside it being crucial to addressing the significant revenue gap left by a lack of spectators and other revenue streams as a result of the pandemic,” the league said.

England to allow 4,000 fans at elite events in lowest-risk areas

Australia batsman Steve Smith says a training breakthrough during a stint in isolation has helped him find his hands again and he is confident his Indian Premier League struggles are behind him as he prepares to face India on Friday.

Smith had a relatively quiet IPL in the United Arab Emirates, scoring 311 runs at 25.91 in 14 matches. He averaged 41.40 in the previous three years of the tournament.

The 31-year-old said he had hardly picked up a bat during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic and then struggled on Australia’s limited overs tour of England, where he scored 31 runs in three Twenty20 innings.

Smith’s batting woes were a major concern for Australia, who are set to face India in six limited overs matches before the mouth-watering test series.

But back in isolation in Sydney after returning from the UAE, Smith said he felt like he had found his rhythm and was striking the ball better and able to place it where he wanted.

“The past few days I have found something ... I have found my hands which I am extremely excited about,” Smith told reporters on Tuesday.

“It’s just getting that feel of the bat behind my toe the right way, the way my hands come up the bat.

“But it just hasn’t quite been right until two days ago. I found a little something and everything just clicked in.

“I had a big smile on my face after training the other day.”

The smile will no doubt spread to the faces of Australian fans if Smith has indeed rediscovered his form.

He averages 84.05 against India in tests and 60.46 in one-day internationals. The last time Smith said he had “found his hands” was ahead of the 2017/18 Ashes test series, where he tore apart England’s attack for 687 runs at 137.40.

“In big series I try and stand up and get the best out of myself,” Smith said.

“Whether there is something more inside me that comes out, I’m not sure.”

Australia batsman Steve Smith says a training breakthrough during a stint in isolation has helped him find his hands again and he is confident his Indian Premier League struggles are behind him as he prepares to face India on Friday.

Australia batsman Steve Smith says a training breakthrough during a stint in isolation has helped him find his hands again and he is confident his Indian Premier League struggles are behind him as he prepares to face India on Friday. Smith had a relatively quiet IPL in the United Arab Emirates, scoring 311 runs at 25.91 in 14 matches. He averaged 41.40 in the previous three years of the tournament. The 31-year-old said he had hardly picked up a bat during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic and then struggled on Australia’s limited overs tour of England, where he scored 31 runs in three Twenty20 innings. Smith’s batting woes were a major concern for Australia, who are set to face India in six limited overs matches before the mouth-watering test series. But back in isolation in Sydney after returning from the UAE, Smith said he felt like he had found his rhythm and was striking the ball better and able to place it where he wanted. “The past few days I have found something ... I have found my hands which I am extremely excited about,” Smith told reporters on Tuesday. “It’s just getting that feel of the bat behind my toe the right way, the way my hands come up the bat. “But it just hasn’t quite been right until two days ago. I found a little something and everything just clicked in. “I had a big smile on my face after training the other day.” The smile will no doubt spread to the faces of Australian fans if Smith has indeed rediscovered his form. He averages 84.05 against India in tests and 60.46 in one-day internationals. The last time Smith said he had “found his hands” was ahead of the 2017/18 Ashes test series, where he tore apart England’s attack for 687 runs at 137.40. “In big series I try and stand up and get the best out of myself,” Smith said. “Whether there is something more inside me that comes out, I’m not sure.”

With India series looming, Smith relieved to find his hands

Eight new positive coronavirus cases have been found in the latest round of testing conducted by Premier League, England`s top-tier football tournament. 
 
In a statement, Premier League said on Monday that 1,530 players and club staff were tested from November 16 to 22 in the latest round. 
 
"The Premier League can today confirm that between Monday November 16 and Sunday November 22, 1,530 players and club staff were tested for Covid-19. Of these, there were eight new positive tests," the league said on Monday. 
 
The players or club staff who have tested positive will self-isolate for a period of 10 days. 
 
A total of 76 confirmed Covid-19 cases have been detected till now in 12 rounds of testing conducted by Premier League since August. 
 
&nbsp;

Eight new positive coronavirus cases have been found in the latest round of testing conducted by Premier League, England`s top-tier football tournament. In a statement, Premier League said on Monday that 1,530 players and club staff were tested from November 16 to 22 in the latest round.

Eight new positive coronavirus cases have been found in the latest round of testing conducted by Premier League, England`s top-tier football tournament. In a statement, Premier League said on Monday that 1,530 players and club staff were tested from November 16 to 22 in the latest round. "The Premier League can today confirm that between Monday November 16 and Sunday November 22, 1,530 players and club staff were tested for Covid-19. Of these, there were eight new positive tests," the league said on Monday. The players or club staff who have tested positive will self-isolate for a period of 10 days. A total of 76 confirmed Covid-19 cases have been detected till now in 12 rounds of testing conducted by Premier League since August.

Eight new Covid-19 cases found in latest round of testing: Premier League

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said the Premier League's top six could be left without 11 fit players unless changes are made to protect the welfare of stretched squads.

Already depleted by an injury crisis, the Reds will play three games in six-and-a-half days this week.

Klopp's men saw off Leicester City 3-0 in Sunday's late Premier League kick-off and will welcome Atalanta to Anfield in the Champions League on Wednesday before travelling to Brighton for Saturday's 1230 GMT kick-off.

"If we keep playing Wednesday night and Saturday 12.30, I am not sure we finish the season with 11 players, all the top six or seven," said Klopp in an impassioned interview with Sky Sports, the largest domestic rights holder of Premier League games.

Under the terms of a £4.5 billion ($6 billion) deal for three seasons, Sky have the first pick from each round of games with BT Sport choosing their headline match second.

But Klopp said broadcasters should adapt to the circumstances of a season like no other, with matches crammed into the calendar to make up for the lost time of a three-month postponement to last season due to the coronavirus pandemic.

"Everybody tells me it is difficult, but it is difficult for the players. That's what is difficult. The rest is just a decision on a desk in an office," added Klopp.

"If someone tells me again about contracts I go really nuts because the contracts were not made for a Covid season.

"We all have to adapt. You stand here with a facemask, would you have thought a year ago you would go somewhere with a facemask and we cannot be close? That's the situation. Everything changed, but the contract with the broadcasters is still 'we said this so we keep this'."

<h2>- 'Brutal' fixture list -</h2>

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said his side had been "set up to fail" when they had to travel back from facing Istanbul Basaksehir in the Champions League on a Wednesday night before a lunchtime kick-off away at Everton.

Chelsea boss Frank Lampard is hoping to secure qualification for the last 16 of the Champions League away to Rennes on Tuesday to be able to rest players for the final two group games ahead of a "brutal" schedule.

"I have looked at the schedule and it is brutal. We play Arsenal on Boxing Day and then Aston Villa two days later," said Lampard.

"We need to try to win this game and if we can get into the next round then we could rest players, but we still want to win the group. I am confident in the squad, even if we rotate."

Klopp claimed to even have considered sending a youth team to Brighton to prevent more injuries.

Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Jordan Henderson, Thiago Alcantara, Xherdan Shaqiri and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain missed the win over Leicester, while Mohamed Salah was absent after testing positive for coronavirus.

"We will go there shaking," said Klopp, claiming he had even thought of "sending" the points to Brighton.

The German stressed his complaints were not motivated by self-interest.

"It was never about us when I spoke about it, it's about all the players. It's about the England players, all the players who play the European championship in the summer," he continued.

Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman has left Lionel Messi out for the Champions League trip to Dynamo Kiev after losing Gerard Pique and Sergi Roberto to long-term injuries in Saturday's 1-0 defeat at Atletico Madrid.

"Sometimes, you have to protect your players because the calendar is incredible," said Koeman.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said the Premier League's top six could be left without 11 fit players unless changes are made to protect the welfare of stretched squads.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said the Premier League's top six could be left without 11 fit players unless changes are made to protect the welfare of stretched squads. Already depleted by an injury crisis, the Reds will play three games in six-and-a-half days this week. Klopp's men saw off Leicester City 3-0 in Sunday's late Premier League kick-off and will welcome Atalanta to Anfield in the Champions League on Wednesday before travelling to Brighton for Saturday's 1230 GMT kick-off. "If we keep playing Wednesday night and Saturday 12.30, I am not sure we finish the season with 11 players, all the top six or seven," said Klopp in an impassioned interview with Sky Sports, the largest domestic rights holder of Premier League games. Under the terms of a £4.5 billion ($6 billion) deal for three seasons, Sky have the first pick from each round of games with BT Sport choosing their headline match second. But Klopp said broadcasters should adapt to the circumstances of a season like no other, with matches crammed into the calendar to make up for the lost time of a three-month postponement to last season due to the coronavirus pandemic. "Everybody tells me it is difficult, but it is difficult for the players. That's what is difficult. The rest is just a decision on a desk in an office," added Klopp. "If someone tells me again about contracts I go really nuts because the contracts were not made for a Covid season. "We all have to adapt. You stand here with a facemask, would you have thought a year ago you would go somewhere with a facemask and we cannot be close? That's the situation. Everything changed, but the contract with the broadcasters is still 'we said this so we keep this'." - 'Brutal' fixture list - Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said his side had been "set up to fail" when they had to travel back from facing Istanbul Basaksehir in the Champions League on a Wednesday night before a lunchtime kick-off away at Everton. Chelsea boss Frank Lampard is hoping to secure qualification for the last 16 of the Champions League away to Rennes on Tuesday to be able to rest players for the final two group games ahead of a "brutal" schedule. "I have looked at the schedule and it is brutal. We play Arsenal on Boxing Day and then Aston Villa two days later," said Lampard. "We need to try to win this game and if we can get into the next round then we could rest players, but we still want to win the group. I am confident in the squad, even if we rotate." Klopp claimed to even have considered sending a youth team to Brighton to prevent more injuries. Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Jordan Henderson, Thiago Alcantara, Xherdan Shaqiri and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain missed the win over Leicester, while Mohamed Salah was absent after testing positive for coronavirus. "We will go there shaking," said Klopp, claiming he had even thought of "sending" the points to Brighton. The German stressed his complaints were not motivated by self-interest. "It was never about us when I spoke about it, it's about all the players. It's about the England players, all the players who play the European championship in the summer," he continued. Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman has left Lionel Messi out for the Champions League trip to Dynamo Kiev after losing Gerard Pique and Sergi Roberto to long-term injuries in Saturday's 1-0 defeat at Atletico Madrid. "Sometimes, you have to protect your players because the calendar is incredible," said Koeman.

Liverpool will not have 11 fit players without changes, warns Klopp

Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman said Monday that Lionel Messi and Frenkie de Jong will not feature against Dynamo Kiev in the Champions League this midweek, instead being given a rest.

Barca travel to Ukraine on top of Group G with a perfect nine points after three games, three points ahead of second-placed Juventus, but they are a lowly 12th in La Liga after losing 1-0 to Atletico Madrid on Saturday.

"We've decided not to take Leo or Frenkie because our situation in the Champions League is quite comfortable," Koeman told reporters ahead of Tuesday's game.

Messi, 33, has played every Barca match so far this season and also played the full 90 minutes for Argentina four times over October and November.

Midfielder De Jong, who is 10 years Messi's junior, has also played every match for the Catalan giants as well as five international fixtures for the Netherlands in the same period.

"The players need a break and we think it's time for them to rest ... Both have played almost every minute and come from playing with their national teams," Koeman added.

"Sometimes, you have to protect your players because the calendar is incredible."

Injuries to several key players including Ansu Fati, Sergio Busquets and Gerard Pique have forced Koeman to rotate.

Antoine Griezmann and promising teen Pedri are expected to lead the attack while Clement Lenglet will lead the defence in the absence of both Pique, who picked up a knee injury on Saturday, and Samuel Umtiti.

Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman said Monday that Lionel Messi and Frenkie de Jong will not feature against Dynamo Kiev in the Champions League this midweek, instead being given a rest.

Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman said Monday that Lionel Messi and Frenkie de Jong will not feature against Dynamo Kiev in the Champions League this midweek, instead being given a rest. Barca travel to Ukraine on top of Group G with a perfect nine points after three games, three points ahead of second-placed Juventus, but they are a lowly 12th in La Liga after losing 1-0 to Atletico Madrid on Saturday. "We've decided not to take Leo or Frenkie because our situation in the Champions League is quite comfortable," Koeman told reporters ahead of Tuesday's game. Messi, 33, has played every Barca match so far this season and also played the full 90 minutes for Argentina four times over October and November. Midfielder De Jong, who is 10 years Messi's junior, has also played every match for the Catalan giants as well as five international fixtures for the Netherlands in the same period. "The players need a break and we think it's time for them to rest ... Both have played almost every minute and come from playing with their national teams," Koeman added. "Sometimes, you have to protect your players because the calendar is incredible." Injuries to several key players including Ansu Fati, Sergio Busquets and Gerard Pique have forced Koeman to rotate. Antoine Griezmann and promising teen Pedri are expected to lead the attack while Clement Lenglet will lead the defence in the absence of both Pique, who picked up a knee injury on Saturday, and Samuel Umtiti.

Barcelona coach Koeman rests Messi, De Jong for Dynamo Kiev clash

Pep Guardiola and Jurgen Klopp on Tuesday welcomed the government's decision to allow fans back into stadiums, a move described by the English Football League chief as a "lifeline" for smaller clubs.

Lower-league clubs, who do not enjoy the TV riches of the Premier League, have been struggling to make ends meet, with supporters shut out during the coronavirus pandemic.

But under plans unveiled on Monday, up to 4,000 people will be able to return to outdoor sports stadiums, depending on levels of Covid-19 in the area, from December 2.

Manchester City boss Guardiola welcomed the potential limited return of fans.

"If they believe it is the best, we will do it and hopefully it will work," he said. "If the government has decided, they must have listened to the scientists and doctors."

Liverpool manager Klopp also welcomed the development, but said he had questions about the logic being applied to the numbers involved.

"The problem is, I just struggle to put faith in any kind of announcements," he said.

"I don't understand why it is only 2,000 people in a 60,000 stadium. But I am not surprised. It's good news, good sign. I'll take it, 100 percent."

<h2>- 'Welcome start' -</h2>

English Football League chairman Rick Parry told the BBC he was looking forward to getting fans back in more substantial numbers but it was a "welcome start".

"At League One and League Two level (third and fourth tiers) it could be very significant," he said. "It's not just the money, it's a very welcome return to an atmosphere, and if we get 4,000 at League Two level it would be very welcome. It can be a very welcome lifeline."

The EFL is considering moving some of its fixtures scheduled for December 1 to the following day in order to get fans in.

Premier League chiefs have welcomed Monday's announcement but made it clear that only a return to bigger crowds would ease the sport's financial problems.

Three of the biggest clubs -- Liverpool, Manchester United and Manchester City -- are located in regions under the strictest "tier-three" conditions, so it remains to be seen whether they will be allowed to admit fans.

The Rugby Football Union is considering whether to use the climax to England's Autumn Nations Cup campaign on December 6 as an opportunity to prepare for the eventual full return of supporters to Twickenham.

Eddie Jones' side are likely to face France in the competition's showpiece event, which could be staged in front of a crowd of up to 4,000 spectators if the area is considered to be one of low coronavirus risk.

Pep Guardiola and Jurgen Klopp on Tuesday welcomed the government's decision to allow fans back into stadiums, a move described by the English Football League chief as a "lifeline" for smaller clubs.

Pep Guardiola and Jurgen Klopp on Tuesday welcomed the government's decision to allow fans back into stadiums, a move described by the English Football League chief as a "lifeline" for smaller clubs. Lower-league clubs, who do not enjoy the TV riches of the Premier League, have been struggling to make ends meet, with supporters shut out during the coronavirus pandemic. But under plans unveiled on Monday, up to 4,000 people will be able to return to outdoor sports stadiums, depending on levels of Covid-19 in the area, from December 2. Manchester City boss Guardiola welcomed the potential limited return of fans. "If they believe it is the best, we will do it and hopefully it will work," he said. "If the government has decided, they must have listened to the scientists and doctors." Liverpool manager Klopp also welcomed the development, but said he had questions about the logic being applied to the numbers involved. "The problem is, I just struggle to put faith in any kind of announcements," he said. "I don't understand why it is only 2,000 people in a 60,000 stadium. But I am not surprised. It's good news, good sign. I'll take it, 100 percent." - 'Welcome start' - English Football League chairman Rick Parry told the BBC he was looking forward to getting fans back in more substantial numbers but it was a "welcome start". "At League One and League Two level (third and fourth tiers) it could be very significant," he said. "It's not just the money, it's a very welcome return to an atmosphere, and if we get 4,000 at League Two level it would be very welcome. It can be a very welcome lifeline." The EFL is considering moving some of its fixtures scheduled for December 1 to the following day in order to get fans in. Premier League chiefs have welcomed Monday's announcement but made it clear that only a return to bigger crowds would ease the sport's financial problems. Three of the biggest clubs -- Liverpool, Manchester United and Manchester City -- are located in regions under the strictest "tier-three" conditions, so it remains to be seen whether they will be allowed to admit fans. The Rugby Football Union is considering whether to use the climax to England's Autumn Nations Cup campaign on December 6 as an opportunity to prepare for the eventual full return of supporters to Twickenham. Eddie Jones' side are likely to face France in the competition's showpiece event, which could be staged in front of a crowd of up to 4,000 spectators if the area is considered to be one of low coronavirus risk.

Guardiola, Klopp welcome virus fan-return plan

Lionel Messi, after falling out with the current Barcelona board, officially asked the Catalan club to release him from his duties in the summer transfer window of 2020. After weeks of drama, Messi took a dramatic u-turn and continued his stay in the Nou Camp.

However, things haven’t fallen into place for the Argentine maestro with Barcelona this season when it comes to individual and team form. Now, Messi is set to commence formal talks over a transfer with Manchester City in January.

Messi’s current contract runs till the summer of 2021 and the Barcelona wizard can hold talks with other clubs over his transfer from January 2021. With Pep Guardiola signing a contract extension and Aguero ready to put pen on paper to extend his stay with Manchester City, everything is signalling that Messi may soon head over to the Etihad Stadium.

Trending:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tottenham-hotspurs-dele-alli-flaunts-jaw-dropping-cricket-skills-watch-345102" hreflang="en">Tottenham Hotspur's Dele Alli flaunts jaw-dropping cricket skills - Watch</a>

According to a report in the Mirror, Man City have already chalked out plans over their transfer of Messi. Whether Messi will sign on a free transfer or will Man City pay a nominal fee to Barcelona over his transfer is yet to be cleared.&nbsp;

Moreover, the City Football Group wants to sign Messi for around a decade to maximize their market reach worldwide.&nbsp;

Man City are also keen to extend the contracts of Kevin De Bruyne and Raheem Sterling to secure their prime-years with the club.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-to-allow-4000-fans-at-elite-events-in-lowest-risk-areas-345047" hreflang="en">England to allow 4,000 fans at elite events in lowest-risk areas</a>

Meanwhile, Barcelona sit at a disappointing 13th position in the La Liga standings with just three wins in eight matches.

However, with a new board expected to come in place for Barcelona soon, it would be interesting to see whether new bosses could manage to lure Messi into another contract extension.&nbsp;

Lionel Messi, after falling out with the current Barcelona board, officially asked the Catalan club to release him from his duties in the summer transfer window of 2020.

Lionel Messi, after falling out with the current Barcelona board, officially asked the Catalan club to release him from his duties in the summer transfer window of 2020. After weeks of drama, Messi took a dramatic u-turn and continued his stay in the Nou Camp. However, things haven’t fallen into place for the Argentine maestro with Barcelona this season when it comes to individual and team form. Now, Messi is set to commence formal talks over a transfer with Manchester City in January. Messi’s current contract runs till the summer of 2021 and the Barcelona wizard can hold talks with other clubs over his transfer from January 2021. With Pep Guardiola signing a contract extension and Aguero ready to put pen on paper to extend his stay with Manchester City, everything is signalling that Messi may soon head over to the Etihad Stadium. Trending: Tottenham Hotspur's Dele Alli flaunts jaw-dropping cricket skills - Watch According to a report in the Mirror, Man City have already chalked out plans over their transfer of Messi. Whether Messi will sign on a free transfer or will Man City pay a nominal fee to Barcelona over his transfer is yet to be cleared. Moreover, the City Football Group wants to sign Messi for around a decade to maximize their market reach worldwide. Man City are also keen to extend the contracts of Kevin De Bruyne and Raheem Sterling to secure their prime-years with the club. ALSO READ: England to allow 4,000 fans at elite events in lowest-risk areas Meanwhile, Barcelona sit at a disappointing 13th position in the La Liga standings with just three wins in eight matches. However, with a new board expected to come in place for Barcelona soon, it would be interesting to see whether new bosses could manage to lure Messi into another contract extension.

Lionel Messi to begin 'formal' talks with Man City in January: Report

India’s Virat Kohli and Ravichandran Ashwin have been nominated for the coveted ICC Men’s Player of the Decade Award with Indian captain Kohli featuring in all five men’s categories of ICC Awards of the Decade&nbsp;for his breathtaking run on the field in the last decade.

Kohli and veteran spinner Ashwin are the two Indian players alongside seven overseas players nominated for the most prestigious award by the ICC.

Along with Kohl and Ashwin, Joe Root (England), Kane Williamson (New Zealand), Steve Smith (Australia), AB de Villiers (South Africa), and Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka) are the other players nominated in the ICC Men’s Player of the Decade award.

In the Men’s ODI Player of the Decade Award, former Indian cricketer Mahendra Singh Dhoni, Rohit Sharma, Kohli, Lasith Malinga (Sri Lanka), Mitchell Starc (Australia), de Villiers and Sangakkara have been nominated.

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Kohli and Rohit were also named in the Men’s T20I Player of the Decade category which consists the likes of Rashid Khan (Afghanistan), Imran Tahir (South Africa), Aaron Finch (Australia), Malinga and Chris Gayle (West Indies).

Furthermore, Kohli has also been nominated in the Men’s Test Player of the Decade and ICC Spirit of Cricket Award of the Decade categories.&nbsp;

Kohli has already scored 70 international centuries and is just one behind Ricky Ponting (71) And Sachin Tendulkar (100). He is also behind the iconic duo of Ponting and Tendulkar in the list of leading run-scorers of all-time with 21,444 runs under his belt.&nbsp;

In the last decade, Kohli scored over 7000 runs in Test cricket whereas, in ODIs, he amassed more than 11000 runs and over 2600 in T20s.

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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-australia-will-smoke-india-4-0-in-tests-predicts-michael-clarke-345073" hreflang="en">IND vs AUS: Australia will smoke India 4-0 in Tests, predicts Michael Clarke</a>

<h2>ICC Awards of the Decade: List of nominations</h2>

Men’s Player of the decade: Virat Kohli (India) Ravichandran Ashwin (India), Joe Root (England), Kane Williamson (New Zealand), Steve Smith (Australia), AB de Villiers (South Africa), and Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka).

Women’s ODI Player of the Decade: Meg Lanning (Australia), Ellyse Perry (Australia), Mithali Raj (India), Suzie Bates (New Zealand), Stafanie Taylor (West Indies) and Jhulan Goswami (India).

Women’s Player of the Decade: Ellyse Perry (Australia), Meg Lanning (Australia), Suzie Bates (New Zealand), Stafanie Taylor (West Indies), Mithali Raj (India), Sarah Taylor (England).

Men’s ODI Player of the Decade: Virat Kohli (India), Lasith Malinga (Sri Lanka), Mitchell Starc (Australia), AB de Villiers, Rohit Sharma (India), MS Dhoni (India), and Kumara Sangakkara (Sri Lanka).

Men’s Test Player of the Decade: Virat Kohli (India), Kane Williamson (New Zealand), Smith, James Anderson (England), Rangana Herath (Sri Lanka), and Yasir Shah (Pakistan).

Men’s T20I Player of the Decade: Rashid Khan (Afghanistan), Virat Kohli (India), Imran Tahir (South Africa), Aaron Finch (Australia), Lasith Malinga (Sri Lanka), Chris Gayle (West Indies), and Rohit Sharma (India).

ICC Spirit of Cricket Award of the Decade: Virat Kohli (India), Kane Williamson (New Zealand), Brendon McCullum (New Zealand), Misbah-ul-Haq (Pakistan), MS Dhoni (India), Anya Shrubsole (England), Katherine Brunt (England), Mahela Jayawardene (Sri Lanka), and Daniel Vettori (New Zealand).

(From PTI Inputs)

India’s Virat Kohli and Ravichandran Ashwin have been nominated for the coveted ICC Men’s Player of the Decade Award with Indian captain Kohli featuring in all five men’s categories of ICC Awards of the Decade for his breathtaking run on the field in the last decade.

India’s Virat Kohli and Ravichandran Ashwin have been nominated for the coveted ICC Men’s Player of the Decade Award with Indian captain Kohli featuring in all five men’s categories of ICC Awards of the Decade for his breathtaking run on the field in the last decade. Kohli and veteran spinner Ashwin are the two Indian players alongside seven overseas players nominated for the most prestigious award by the ICC. Along with Kohl and Ashwin, Joe Root (England), Kane Williamson (New Zealand), Steve Smith (Australia), AB de Villiers (South Africa), and Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka) are the other players nominated in the ICC Men’s Player of the Decade award. In the Men’s ODI Player of the Decade Award, former Indian cricketer Mahendra Singh Dhoni, Rohit Sharma, Kohli, Lasith Malinga (Sri Lanka), Mitchell Starc (Australia), de Villiers and Sangakkara have been nominated. ALSO READ: Shikhar Dhawan gives sneak peek into Team India's new jersey Kohli and Rohit were also named in the Men’s T20I Player of the Decade category which consists the likes of Rashid Khan (Afghanistan), Imran Tahir (South Africa), Aaron Finch (Australia), Malinga and Chris Gayle (West Indies). Furthermore, Kohli has also been nominated in the Men’s Test Player of the Decade and ICC Spirit of Cricket Award of the Decade categories. Kohli has already scored 70 international centuries and is just one behind Ricky Ponting (71) And Sachin Tendulkar (100). He is also behind the iconic duo of Ponting and Tendulkar in the list of leading run-scorers of all-time with 21,444 runs under his belt. In the last decade, Kohli scored over 7000 runs in Test cricket whereas, in ODIs, he amassed more than 11000 runs and over 2600 in T20s. Soon... 👀 pic.twitter.com/9zO6mmw9o8 — ICC (@ICC) November 24, 2020 × ALSO READ: IND vs AUS: Australia will smoke India 4-0 in Tests, predicts Michael Clarke ICC Awards of the Decade: List of nominations Men’s Player of the decade: Virat Kohli (India) Ravichandran Ashwin (India), Joe Root (England), Kane Williamson (New Zealand), Steve Smith (Australia), AB de Villiers (South Africa), and Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka). Women’s ODI Player of the Decade: Meg Lanning (Australia), Ellyse Perry (Australia), Mithali Raj (India), Suzie Bates (New Zealand), Stafanie Taylor (West Indies) and Jhulan Goswami (India). Women’s Player of the Decade: Ellyse Perry (Australia), Meg Lanning (Australia), Suzie Bates (New Zealand), Stafanie Taylor (West Indies), Mithali Raj (India), Sarah Taylor (England). Men’s ODI Player of the Decade: Virat Kohli (India), Lasith Malinga (Sri Lanka), Mitchell Starc (Australia), AB de Villiers, Rohit Sharma (India), MS Dhoni (India), and Kumara Sangakkara (Sri Lanka). Men’s Test Player of the Decade: Virat Kohli (India), Kane Williamson (New Zealand), Smith, James Anderson (England), Rangana Herath (Sri Lanka), and Yasir Shah (Pakistan). Men’s T20I Player of the Decade: Rashid Khan (Afghanistan), Virat Kohli (India), Imran Tahir (South Africa), Aaron Finch (Australia), Lasith Malinga (Sri Lanka), Chris Gayle (West Indies), and Rohit Sharma (India). ICC Spirit of Cricket Award of the Decade: Virat Kohli (India), Kane Williamson (New Zealand), Brendon McCullum (New Zealand), Misbah-ul-Haq (Pakistan), MS Dhoni (India), Anya Shrubsole (England), Katherine Brunt (England), Mahela Jayawardene (Sri Lanka), and Daniel Vettori (New Zealand). (From PTI Inputs)

Virat Kohli in hunt for ICC Player of the Decade Award - Check full nominations list

Pope Francis&nbsp;hosted a delegation of NBA players and union officials at the Vatican in a bid to discuss the wide-ranging issues of racial equality and social justice. The delegation of five players and five union executives met with Pope Francis&nbsp;in the papal library of the Apostolic Palace on Monday, presenting gifts and discussed their share of experiences in tacking racism and social injustice. Interestingly, no one wore a mask to protect against the spread of COVID-19.

Photos and videos from the meeting showed at least 16 people sitting and exchanging gifts and opinions with no masks and almost no social-distancing measures.

The National Basketball Players Association (NLBPA) confirmed that the members of the delegation underwent COVID-19 tests before meeting Pope Francis, in accordance with the Vatican protocols.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-draft-2020-top-picks-trivia-and-best-quotes-344039" hreflang="en">NBA Draft 2020: Top picks, trivia and best quotes</a>

Pope Francis, 83, over the months, has received criticism for rarely wearing a mask while meeting people indoors.

Notably, the US has reported around 12 million coronavirus cases with death toll north to 250,000 from the virus – the most in the world.

The NBA player delegation included the likes of Sterling Brown and Kyle Korver of Milwaukee Bucks, Anthony Tolliver of the Memphis Grizzlies, Jonathan Isaac of the Orlando Magic and Marco Belinelli of the San Antonio Spurs. Belinelli spoke to the Pope in Italian.&nbsp;

<h2>"Meeting validates the power of our players' voices"</h2>

“Today's meeting validates the power of our players' voices,” NLBPA executive director Michele Roberts said. “That one of the most influential leaders in the world sought to have a conversation with them demonstrates the influence of their platforms.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-announces-structure-and-format-for-2020-21-season-343846" hreflang="en">NBA announces structure and format for 2020-21 season</a>

The NBA became central to political storm this year in the aftermath of the massive Black Lives Matter (BLM) protest across the US after the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis, under police custody. Players boycotted matches after another African-American man Jacob Blake was shot dead by police in Wisconsin.

Korver stated that players were honoured to share their experiences with Pope Francis. “His openness and eagerness to discuss these issues was inspiring and a reminder that our work has had a global impact and must continue moving forward,” Korver said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-2020-draft-history-stats-and-all-the-numbers-you-need-to-know-343844" hreflang="en">NBA 2020 Draft: History, Stats and all the numbers you need to know</a>

Pope Francis’s book is due out on December 1 in which he has supported demands for racial justice among many other social causes. 
&nbsp;

Pope Francis hosted a delegation of NBA players and union officials at the Vatican in a bid to discuss the wide-ranging issues of racial equality and social justice.

Pope Francis hosted a delegation of NBA players and union officials at the Vatican in a bid to discuss the wide-ranging issues of racial equality and social justice. The delegation of five players and five union executives met with Pope Francis in the papal library of the Apostolic Palace on Monday, presenting gifts and discussed their share of experiences in tacking racism and social injustice. Interestingly, no one wore a mask to protect against the spread of COVID-19. Photos and videos from the meeting showed at least 16 people sitting and exchanging gifts and opinions with no masks and almost no social-distancing measures. The National Basketball Players Association (NLBPA) confirmed that the members of the delegation underwent COVID-19 tests before meeting Pope Francis, in accordance with the Vatican protocols. ALSO READ: NBA Draft 2020: Top picks, trivia and best quotes Pope Francis, 83, over the months, has received criticism for rarely wearing a mask while meeting people indoors. Notably, the US has reported around 12 million coronavirus cases with death toll north to 250,000 from the virus – the most in the world. The NBA player delegation included the likes of Sterling Brown and Kyle Korver of Milwaukee Bucks, Anthony Tolliver of the Memphis Grizzlies, Jonathan Isaac of the Orlando Magic and Marco Belinelli of the San Antonio Spurs. Belinelli spoke to the Pope in Italian. "Meeting validates the power of our players' voices" “Today's meeting validates the power of our players' voices,” NLBPA executive director Michele Roberts said. “That one of the most influential leaders in the world sought to have a conversation with them demonstrates the influence of their platforms.” ALSO READ: NBA announces structure and format for 2020-21 season The NBA became central to political storm this year in the aftermath of the massive Black Lives Matter (BLM) protest across the US after the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis, under police custody. Players boycotted matches after another African-American man Jacob Blake was shot dead by police in Wisconsin. Korver stated that players were honoured to share their experiences with Pope Francis. “His openness and eagerness to discuss these issues was inspiring and a reminder that our work has had a global impact and must continue moving forward,” Korver said. ALSO READ: NBA 2020 Draft: History, Stats and all the numbers you need to know Pope Francis’s book is due out on December 1 in which he has supported demands for racial justice among many other social causes.

Pope Francis hosts delegation of NBA players for maskless meeting over social justice

Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Dele Alli showed some breathtaking catching skills, thanks to an indoor intra-squad cricket match as he used his footballing skills to deflected a powerfully stuck shot to convert it into a sensational catch. The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> midfielder took to social media platform to post the video where Tottenham Hotspur players, including the likes of Gareth Bale and Joe Hart, were seen playing cricket.

In the video, the batsman hits the ball straight at Alli, who used his foot to deflect it straight up and completed the catch to leave everyone present awestruck. The video soon went viral on social media with International Cricket Council also posting it on Twitter.

"I think @joehartofficial was impressed with this one," wrote Dele Alli in the caption.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-shikhar-dhawan-gives-sneak-peek-into-team-indias-new-jersey-345079" hreflang="en">Shikhar Dhawan gives sneak peek into Team India's new jersey</a>

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🏏⚽️😜 <a href="https://t.co/Ngy3LXQLak">pic.twitter.com/Ngy3LXQLak</a>
— Dele (@dele_official) <a href="https://twitter.com/dele_official/status/1330902300550950912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Fellow Englishman and Manchester City forward Raheem Sterling was in disagreement. "Nah," he wrote. However, Hart appreciated Alli’s skills as he wrote: "Changing the game Del Boy @dele genius," wrote.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/completely-unacceptable-arsenal-leeds-condemn-online-abuse-of-pepe-alioski-344949" hreflang="en">'Completely unacceptable': Arsenal, Leeds condemn online abuse of Pepe, Alioski</a>

ICC saw the humorous side of the video and advised Alli not to try the same with a real cricket ball as they were playing with a tennis ball. “An outrageous catch by England footballer @dele_official while playing cricket with his @SpursOfficial team-mates. &nbsp;We wouldn't advise trying that with a real cricket ball though,” ICC tweeted.

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👀 An outrageous catch by England footballer <a href="https://twitter.com/dele_official?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@dele_official</a> while playing cricket with his <a href="https://twitter.com/SpursOfficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SpursOfficial</a> team-mates 🔥🔥🔥 
 
We wouldn't advise trying that with a real cricket ball though 😂 <a href="https://t.co/HTsp4pNiQH">pic.twitter.com/HTsp4pNiQH</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1330937754939772933?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Tottenham Hotspur moved atop the Premier League 2020-21 points table on Sunday after defeating Manchester City 2-0. Spurs are eyeing their first top-flight English title in 60 years.

Liverpool are a close second with Chelsea at the third spot.

Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Dele Alli showed some breathtaking catching skills, thanks to an indoor intra-squad cricket match as he used his footballing skills to deflected a powerfully stuck shot to convert it into a sensational catch.

Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Dele Alli showed some breathtaking catching skills, thanks to an indoor intra-squad cricket match as he used his footballing skills to deflected a powerfully stuck shot to convert it into a sensational catch. The Premier League midfielder took to social media platform to post the video where Tottenham Hotspur players, including the likes of Gareth Bale and Joe Hart, were seen playing cricket. In the video, the batsman hits the ball straight at Alli, who used his foot to deflect it straight up and completed the catch to leave everyone present awestruck. The video soon went viral on social media with International Cricket Council also posting it on Twitter. "I think @joehartofficial was impressed with this one," wrote Dele Alli in the caption. ALSO READ: Shikhar Dhawan gives sneak peek into Team India's new jersey 🏏⚽️😜 pic.twitter.com/Ngy3LXQLak — Dele (@dele_official) November 23, 2020 × Fellow Englishman and Manchester City forward Raheem Sterling was in disagreement. "Nah," he wrote. However, Hart appreciated Alli’s skills as he wrote: "Changing the game Del Boy @dele genius," wrote. ALSO READ: 'Completely unacceptable': Arsenal, Leeds condemn online abuse of Pepe, Alioski ICC saw the humorous side of the video and advised Alli not to try the same with a real cricket ball as they were playing with a tennis ball. “An outrageous catch by England footballer @dele_official while playing cricket with his @SpursOfficial team-mates. We wouldn't advise trying that with a real cricket ball though,” ICC tweeted. 👀 An outrageous catch by England footballer @dele_official while playing cricket with his @SpursOfficial team-mates 🔥🔥🔥 We wouldn't advise trying that with a real cricket ball though 😂 pic.twitter.com/HTsp4pNiQH — ICC (@ICC) November 23, 2020 × Meanwhile, Tottenham Hotspur moved atop the Premier League 2020-21 points table on Sunday after defeating Manchester City 2-0. Spurs are eyeing their first top-flight English title in 60 years. Liverpool are a close second with Chelsea at the third spot.

Tottenham Hotspur's Dele Alli flaunts jaw-dropping cricket skills - Watch

Shikhar Dhawan on Tuesday gave a sneak peek to Team India’s new jersey for the limited-overs series against Australia. The vibes from the 1992 World Cup are back as Dhawan took to social media platform Twitter to unveil India’s latest jersey that is inspired by the 1992 World Cup. India are touring Australia for three T20Is, as many ODIs and four Tests.&nbsp;

<h2>Shikhar Dhawan gives sneak peek into Team India's new jersey</h2>

“New jersey, renewed motivation. Ready to go,” tweeted Dhawan with an Indian flag emoticon as the flamboyant opener was seen donning the navy blue jersey with the logo new sponsors MPL and BYJU’s in front of the jersey. The shoulder colour stripes gave away the vibes from the 1992 World Cup.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-australia-will-smoke-india-4-0-in-tests-predicts-michael-clarke-345073" hreflang="en">IND vs AUS: Australia will smoke India 4-0 in Tests, predicts Michael Clarke</a>

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New jersey, renewed motivation. Ready to go. 🇮🇳 <a href="https://t.co/gKG9gS78th">pic.twitter.com/gKG9gS78th</a>
— Shikhar Dhawan (@SDhawan25) <a href="https://twitter.com/SDhawan25/status/1331163041392574464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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India will don the brand new jersey when they take to the field for the three-match ODI series starting on Friday in Sydney. After the ODI series, both India and Australia will engage in a three-match T20I series before gearing up for the much-awaited four-Test Border-Gavaskar trophy.&nbsp;

However, India will have to wary of the full-strength Australian squad who would be hungry to take back the trophy after the Kohli-led India won the series 2-1 in 2018-19 on Australian side and became the first Asian side to defeat Australia in Australia.&nbsp;

Team India had made customized the PPE kits, in which the Men in Blue travelled to Australia, in similar colour tone with shoulder stripes visible there as well.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-rohit-ishant-sharma-out-of-first-2-tests-vs-australia-345054" hreflang="en">India's Rohit, Ishant Sharma out of first 2 Tests vs Australia</a>

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Customised PPE Kits✔️ 
Customised Mask☑️ 
 
How cool is this new look! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/jnfuG1veWX">pic.twitter.com/jnfuG1veWX</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1326568312117997569?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

<h2>India’s tour of Australia (ODI, T20I and Tests) – Schedule:&nbsp;</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Australia vs India 1st ODI: November 27 at Sydney Cricket Ground</li>
	<li>Australia vs India 2nd ODI: November 29 at Sydney Cricket Ground</li>
	<li>Australia vs India 3rd ODI: December 1 at Manuka Oval</li>
	<li>Australia vs India 1st T20I: December 4 at Manuka Oval</li>
	<li>Australia vs India 2nd T20I: December 6 at Sydney Cricket Ground</li>
	<li>Australia vs India 3rd T20I: December 8 at Sydney Cricket Ground</li>
	<li>Australia vs India 1st Test (Day and Night): December 17-21 at Adelaide Oval</li>
	<li>Australia vs India 2nd Test (Boxing Day): December 26-30 at Melbourne Cricket Ground/Adelaide Oval</li>
	<li>Australia vs India 3rd Test: January 7-11 at Sydney Cricket Ground</li>
	<li>Australia vs India 4th Test: January 15-19 at Brisbane 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Shikhar Dhawan on Tuesday gave a sneak peek to Team India’s new jersey for the limited-overs series against Australia. The vibes from the 1992 World Cup are back as Dhawan took to social media platform Twitter to unveil India’s latest jersey that is inspired by the 1992 World Cup.

Shikhar Dhawan on Tuesday gave a sneak peek to Team India’s new jersey for the limited-overs series against Australia. The vibes from the 1992 World Cup are back as Dhawan took to social media platform Twitter to unveil India’s latest jersey that is inspired by the 1992 World Cup. India are touring Australia for three T20Is, as many ODIs and four Tests. Shikhar Dhawan gives sneak peek into Team India's new jersey “New jersey, renewed motivation. Ready to go,” tweeted Dhawan with an Indian flag emoticon as the flamboyant opener was seen donning the navy blue jersey with the logo new sponsors MPL and BYJU’s in front of the jersey. The shoulder colour stripes gave away the vibes from the 1992 World Cup. ALSO READ: IND vs AUS: Australia will smoke India 4-0 in Tests, predicts Michael Clarke New jersey, renewed motivation. Ready to go. 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/gKG9gS78th — Shikhar Dhawan (@SDhawan25) November 24, 2020 × India will don the brand new jersey when they take to the field for the three-match ODI series starting on Friday in Sydney. After the ODI series, both India and Australia will engage in a three-match T20I series before gearing up for the much-awaited four-Test Border-Gavaskar trophy. However, India will have to wary of the full-strength Australian squad who would be hungry to take back the trophy after the Kohli-led India won the series 2-1 in 2018-19 on Australian side and became the first Asian side to defeat Australia in Australia. Team India had made customized the PPE kits, in which the Men in Blue travelled to Australia, in similar colour tone with shoulder stripes visible there as well. ALSO READ: India's Rohit, Ishant Sharma out of first 2 Tests vs Australia Customised PPE Kits✔️ Customised Mask☑️ How cool is this new look! #TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/jnfuG1veWX — BCCI (@BCCI) November 11, 2020 × India’s tour of Australia (ODI, T20I and Tests) – Schedule: Australia vs India 1st ODI: November 27 at Sydney Cricket Ground Australia vs India 2nd ODI: November 29 at Sydney Cricket Ground Australia vs India 3rd ODI: December 1 at Manuka Oval Australia vs India 1st T20I: December 4 at Manuka Oval Australia vs India 2nd T20I: December 6 at Sydney Cricket Ground Australia vs India 3rd T20I: December 8 at Sydney Cricket Ground Australia vs India 1st Test (Day and Night): December 17-21 at Adelaide Oval Australia vs India 2nd Test (Boxing Day): December 26-30 at Melbourne Cricket Ground/Adelaide Oval Australia vs India 3rd Test: January 7-11 at Sydney Cricket Ground Australia vs India 4th Test: January 15-19 at Brisbane

Shikhar Dhawan gives sneak peek into Team India's new jersey

Indian cricket team are all set to give some vintage vibes to their fans as the Men in Blue will don a new jersey in the upcoming limited-overs series against Australia. The Virat Kohli-led Team India are touring Australia for three T20Is, as many ODIs and four Tests and the visitors will be seen donning a new jersey, inspired by the 1992 World Cup.&nbsp;

The much-awaited India’s tour of Australia will kickstart with a three-match ODI series with the first two ODIs scheduled on November 27 and 29 respectively in Sydney. The third ODI and first T20I are scheduled to take place in Manuka Oval before both the teams return to Sydney for the remaining two ODIs.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shikhar-dhawan-gives-sneak-peek-into-team-indias-new-jersey-345079" hreflang="en">Shikhar Dhawan gives sneak peek into Team India's new jersey</a>

However, the Indian team will be seen wearing the new ‘retro-themed’ jersey when they take the field against Australia for the T20Is and ODIs. As per a report in Outlook, the retro-themed jersey has been inspired by the Seventies with Navy Blue shade – a switch from the traditional sky blue colour.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2020-from-most-valuable-player-to-emerging-player-of-the-year-check-out-all-awards-from-ipl-342383" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: From Most Valuable Player to Emerging Player of the Year, check out all awards from IPL</a>

The new shirts will also have the name of BCCI’s new kit sponsors, MPL Sports. In October, the BCCI signed a three-year deal to the tune of Rs 120 crore with MPL as they replaced Nike as India’s new kit sponsors.

Moreover, the BCCI has customized the PPE kit used by the Indian team on their tour of Australia. The players, before their departure to Down Under, were seen wearing the customized kits with the same shade on navy blue colour.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bubbles-and-the-boss-five-things-we-learned-from-the-ipl-342385" hreflang="en">Bubbles and the boss: five things we learned from the IPL</a>

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Customised PPE Kits✔️ 
Customised Mask☑️ 
 
How cool is this new look! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/jnfuG1veWX">pic.twitter.com/jnfuG1veWX</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1326568312117997569?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> is BACK! 
 
Let's embrace the new normal 💪<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/csrQ3aVv21">pic.twitter.com/csrQ3aVv21</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1326547699131273222?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The players and staff were also handed customized mask as teams continue to follow all the protocols laid out by the health officials and government amid the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

Indian cricket team are all set to give some vintage vibes to their fans as the Men in Blue will don a new jersey in the upcoming limited-overs series against Australia.

Indian cricket team are all set to give some vintage vibes to their fans as the Men in Blue will don a new jersey in the upcoming limited-overs series against Australia. The Virat Kohli-led Team India are touring Australia for three T20Is, as many ODIs and four Tests and the visitors will be seen donning a new jersey, inspired by the 1992 World Cup. The much-awaited India’s tour of Australia will kickstart with a three-match ODI series with the first two ODIs scheduled on November 27 and 29 respectively in Sydney. The third ODI and first T20I are scheduled to take place in Manuka Oval before both the teams return to Sydney for the remaining two ODIs. ALSO READ: Shikhar Dhawan gives sneak peek into Team India's new jersey However, the Indian team will be seen wearing the new ‘retro-themed’ jersey when they take the field against Australia for the T20Is and ODIs. As per a report in Outlook, the retro-themed jersey has been inspired by the Seventies with Navy Blue shade – a switch from the traditional sky blue colour. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: From Most Valuable Player to Emerging Player of the Year, check out all awards from IPL The new shirts will also have the name of BCCI’s new kit sponsors, MPL Sports. In October, the BCCI signed a three-year deal to the tune of Rs 120 crore with MPL as they replaced Nike as India’s new kit sponsors. Moreover, the BCCI has customized the PPE kit used by the Indian team on their tour of Australia. The players, before their departure to Down Under, were seen wearing the customized kits with the same shade on navy blue colour. ALSO READ: Bubbles and the boss: five things we learned from the IPL Customised PPE Kits✔️ Customised Mask☑️ How cool is this new look! #TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/jnfuG1veWX — BCCI (@BCCI) November 11, 2020 × #TeamIndia is BACK! Let's embrace the new normal 💪#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/csrQ3aVv21 — BCCI (@BCCI) November 11, 2020 × The players and staff were also handed customized mask as teams continue to follow all the protocols laid out by the health officials and government amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

'Retro' jersey and customised PPE kits - 'New look' Team India all set for Australia tour

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