Chelsea failed to ease the mounting pressure on manager Frank Lampard as Aston Villa came from behind to earn a 1-1 draw at Stamford Bridge on Monday, as a coronavirus outbreak at Manchester City caused their clash at Everton to be postponed.

Lampard's men have now won just one of their last five league games to fall six points behind leaders Liverpool in sixth and having played a game more than the champions.

Chelsea also trail Villa on goal difference, despite Dean Smith's men having two games in hand, and the visitors were well worthy of a point.

"Now it's a tough moment and you have to fight through it," said Lampard. "Nobody let me down tonight, everyone worked, we just didn't quite get the rub of the green."

Lampard was able to make six changes from the side beaten at Arsenal 48 hours ago.

Olivier Giroud was one of those drafted into the side and the French international proved his worth with a precise near post header from Ben Chilwell's cross to open the scoring with his ninth of the season.

By contrast, Smith made just one enforced change from the team that played for 45 minutes with 10 men in Saturday's 3-0 win over Crystal Palace.&nbsp;

But Villa showed no signs of fatigue in the second-half and levelled when Anwar El Ghazi turned home his fifth goal in as many games from Matty Cash's cross five minutes into the second-half.

"I'm still yet to see a player carried off the pitch with exhaustion," said Smith. "I'm a big believer in you want to play every game and if they are doing well keep playing them."

<h2>- Covid outbreak at Man City -</h2>

For just the second time since the 2019/20 Premier League match season resumed in June, a match was postponed due to coronavirus infections after a spike at City.

The Manchester giants announced on Christmas Day there had been positive tests at the club for players Kyle Walker and Gabriel Jesus and two staff members.

A further round of tests revealed more positives on Monday, reportedly for three players, leading to the Premier League to agree to City's request for the match to be called off.

"With the security of the bubble compromised, there posed a risk that the virus could spread further amongst the squad, the staff and potentially beyond," City said in a statement.

"Based on strong medical advice the Premier League, in consultation with both clubs, have decided to postpone the fixture."

The club's training ground will now close for an "indeterminate period" with further testing on players and staff to take place before it can reopen.

City are due to face Chelsea away in the Premier League on Sunday and Manchester United in the League Cup semi-finals on January 6.

"The Premier League Board received medical advice that the match should be postponed," the Premier League said in a statement.

"The Premier League continues to have full confidence in its protocols and rules, and the way in which all clubs are implementing them."

<h2>- Leicester pay penalty without Vardy -</h2>

Earlier, a much-changed Leicester moved up to second thanks to Harvey Barnes' late equaliser in a 1-1 draw at Crystal Palace.

With little over 48 hours rest between the Foxes' 2-2 draw with Manchester United on Saturday and the trip to Selhurst Park, Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers made seven changes with Jamie Vardy, James Maddison and Youri Tielemans among those left on the bench.

Vardy in particular was missed as Kelechi Iheanacho had a first-half penalty saved by Vicente Guaita.

Wilfried Zaha's stunning near post volley then put the Eagles in front against the run of play.

Vardy was summoned from the bench to find a route back into the game, but instead it was the in-form Barnes who scored an excellent equaliser as he wriggled clear of a number of Palace challenges before firing into the bottom corner.

Chelsea failed to ease the mounting pressure on manager Frank Lampard as Aston Villa came from behind to earn a 1-1 draw at Stamford Bridge on Monday, as a coronavirus outbreak at Manchester City caused their clash at Everton to be postponed.

Chelsea failed to ease the mounting pressure on manager Frank Lampard as Aston Villa came from behind to earn a 1-1 draw at Stamford Bridge on Monday, as a coronavirus outbreak at Manchester City caused their clash at Everton to be postponed. Lampard's men have now won just one of their last five league games to fall six points behind leaders Liverpool in sixth and having played a game more than the champions. Chelsea also trail Villa on goal difference, despite Dean Smith's men having two games in hand, and the visitors were well worthy of a point. "Now it's a tough moment and you have to fight through it," said Lampard. "Nobody let me down tonight, everyone worked, we just didn't quite get the rub of the green." Lampard was able to make six changes from the side beaten at Arsenal 48 hours ago. Olivier Giroud was one of those drafted into the side and the French international proved his worth with a precise near post header from Ben Chilwell's cross to open the scoring with his ninth of the season. By contrast, Smith made just one enforced change from the team that played for 45 minutes with 10 men in Saturday's 3-0 win over Crystal Palace. But Villa showed no signs of fatigue in the second-half and levelled when Anwar El Ghazi turned home his fifth goal in as many games from Matty Cash's cross five minutes into the second-half. "I'm still yet to see a player carried off the pitch with exhaustion," said Smith. "I'm a big believer in you want to play every game and if they are doing well keep playing them." - Covid outbreak at Man City - For just the second time since the 2019/20 Premier League match season resumed in June, a match was postponed due to coronavirus infections after a spike at City. The Manchester giants announced on Christmas Day there had been positive tests at the club for players Kyle Walker and Gabriel Jesus and two staff members. A further round of tests revealed more positives on Monday, reportedly for three players, leading to the Premier League to agree to City's request for the match to be called off. "With the security of the bubble compromised, there posed a risk that the virus could spread further amongst the squad, the staff and potentially beyond," City said in a statement. "Based on strong medical advice the Premier League, in consultation with both clubs, have decided to postpone the fixture." The club's training ground will now close for an "indeterminate period" with further testing on players and staff to take place before it can reopen. City are due to face Chelsea away in the Premier League on Sunday and Manchester United in the League Cup semi-finals on January 6. "The Premier League Board received medical advice that the match should be postponed," the Premier League said in a statement. "The Premier League continues to have full confidence in its protocols and rules, and the way in which all clubs are implementing them." - Leicester pay penalty without Vardy - Earlier, a much-changed Leicester moved up to second thanks to Harvey Barnes' late equaliser in a 1-1 draw at Crystal Palace. With little over 48 hours rest between the Foxes' 2-2 draw with Manchester United on Saturday and the trip to Selhurst Park, Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers made seven changes with Jamie Vardy, James Maddison and Youri Tielemans among those left on the bench. Vardy in particular was missed as Kelechi Iheanacho had a first-half penalty saved by Vicente Guaita. Wilfried Zaha's stunning near post volley then put the Eagles in front against the run of play. Vardy was summoned from the bench to find a route back into the game, but instead it was the in-form Barnes who scored an excellent equaliser as he wriggled clear of a number of Palace challenges before firing into the bottom corner.

Chelsea fail to lift pressure on Lampard, Covid spike causes Man City postponement

Brazil's star footballer Neymar is at the center of a new controversy after several Brazilian media reported that he's organizing a huge New Year's Eve party despite the coronavirus pandemic, a claim his lawyers denied.

Acelmo Goes, a columnist for the O Globo newspaper, wrote that the Paris Saint-Germain forward is hosting 500 people for a week-long party at his luxury beachside mansion near Rio de Janeiro that started on Saturday and will last until New Year's Day.

Neymar, who is no stranger to controversies over his parties, allegedly even installed soundproofing equipment to try to avoid bothering his neighbors.

Leo Dias, a columnist for the Metropoles website who is renowned for his scoops on celebrities, even named the artists due to perform at Neymar's party, such as Ludmilla and Wesley Safadao.

Guests' mobile phones are allegedly due to be confiscated on the door to prevent any evidence finding its way onto social media.

Brazil has suffered the second-largest number of Covid-19 related deaths in the world with more than 191,000, while 7.4 million people have contracted the virus.

A specialist events agency, Agencia Fabrica, released a statement confirming it had been contracted for a New Year's event in the Costa Verde region where Neymar's villa is located "that will host around 150 people... while respecting all the health rules determined by the public bodies."

But Neymar's lawyers denied a party had been planned or that the Agencia Fabrica event was related to the football star.

"No! This is a Fabrica event. It is not related to Neymar," they told AFP.

Neymar's villa is in Mangaratiba, a small town in an area of luxury seaside resorts in Rio de Janeiro state.

The local town hall has pleaded with its 41,000 inhabitants not to hold end of year parties and has erected barriers to prevent people congregating.

"We don't have any information about this party," the town hall said in a statement sent to AFP.

Neymar, who hasn't played since December 13 when he injured his ankle against Lyon, hasn't commented on the party and in recent days has posted pictures of his family on social media without commentaries.

His Mangaratiba mansion is located on a 10,000 square-meter (107,600 square feet) plot of land that includes a heliport, sports pitches, spa, sauna, massage parlor, gymnasium and dining areas.

It's where he previously spent his time recovering from injuries and also where he headed from March to June when the coronavirus was raging in France leading to the suspension of professional football.

Brazil's star footballer Neymar is at the center of a new controversy after several Brazilian media reported that he's organizing a huge New Year's Eve party despite the coronavirus pandemic, a claim his lawyers denied.

Brazil's star footballer Neymar is at the center of a new controversy after several Brazilian media reported that he's organizing a huge New Year's Eve party despite the coronavirus pandemic, a claim his lawyers denied. Acelmo Goes, a columnist for the O Globo newspaper, wrote that the Paris Saint-Germain forward is hosting 500 people for a week-long party at his luxury beachside mansion near Rio de Janeiro that started on Saturday and will last until New Year's Day. Neymar, who is no stranger to controversies over his parties, allegedly even installed soundproofing equipment to try to avoid bothering his neighbors. Leo Dias, a columnist for the Metropoles website who is renowned for his scoops on celebrities, even named the artists due to perform at Neymar's party, such as Ludmilla and Wesley Safadao. Guests' mobile phones are allegedly due to be confiscated on the door to prevent any evidence finding its way onto social media. Brazil has suffered the second-largest number of Covid-19 related deaths in the world with more than 191,000, while 7.4 million people have contracted the virus. A specialist events agency, Agencia Fabrica, released a statement confirming it had been contracted for a New Year's event in the Costa Verde region where Neymar's villa is located "that will host around 150 people... while respecting all the health rules determined by the public bodies." But Neymar's lawyers denied a party had been planned or that the Agencia Fabrica event was related to the football star. "No! This is a Fabrica event. It is not related to Neymar," they told AFP. Neymar's villa is in Mangaratiba, a small town in an area of luxury seaside resorts in Rio de Janeiro state. The local town hall has pleaded with its 41,000 inhabitants not to hold end of year parties and has erected barriers to prevent people congregating. "We don't have any information about this party," the town hall said in a statement sent to AFP. Neymar, who hasn't played since December 13 when he injured his ankle against Lyon, hasn't commented on the party and in recent days has posted pictures of his family on social media without commentaries. His Mangaratiba mansion is located on a 10,000 square-meter (107,600 square feet) plot of land that includes a heliport, sports pitches, spa, sauna, massage parlor, gymnasium and dining areas. It's where he previously spent his time recovering from injuries and also where he headed from March to June when the coronavirus was raging in France leading to the suspension of professional football.

Neymar in new controversy over New Year party rumors

New Zealand quick Tim Southee became latest member of the elite 300-wicket club when he dismissed Haris Sohail late on day four of the first Test against Pakistan at Mount Maunganui on Tuesday.&nbsp;

He is only the third New Zealander to reach the milestone, behind Richard Hadlee who took 431 scalps from 86 Tests and Daniel Vettori with 361 wickets in 112 matches.&nbsp;

Globally, the 32-year-old right-armer is only the 34th bowler to reach 300 wickets in the history of Test cricket.&nbsp;

Southee, now in his 76th Test, first played for New Zealand as a 19-year-old when he took five for 55 against England and has since established himself as one of the world's foremost swing bowlers.&nbsp;

He has taken four wickets so far in the first Test against Pakistan who are 37 for three in their second innings chasing a target of 373.

Southee said before the Test that reaching the 300 milestone was not a target but "when you play for long enough those things happen."

His best performance was seven for 64 in Bangalore eight years ago, the most successful return for a New Zealand bowler in India.

New Zealand quick Tim Southee became latest member of the elite 300-wicket club when he dismissed Haris Sohail late on day four of the first Test against Pakistan at Mount Maunganui on Tuesday.

New Zealand quick Tim Southee became latest member of the elite 300-wicket club when he dismissed Haris Sohail late on day four of the first Test against Pakistan at Mount Maunganui on Tuesday. He is only the third New Zealander to reach the milestone, behind Richard Hadlee who took 431 scalps from 86 Tests and Daniel Vettori with 361 wickets in 112 matches. Globally, the 32-year-old right-armer is only the 34th bowler to reach 300 wickets in the history of Test cricket. Southee, now in his 76th Test, first played for New Zealand as a 19-year-old when he took five for 55 against England and has since established himself as one of the world's foremost swing bowlers. He has taken four wickets so far in the first Test against Pakistan who are 37 for three in their second innings chasing a target of 373. Southee said before the Test that reaching the 300 milestone was not a target but "when you play for long enough those things happen." His best performance was seven for 64 in Bangalore eight years ago, the most successful return for a New Zealand bowler in India.

New Zealand's Tim Southee joins elite 300 club

Former Spain and Chelsea striker Diego Costa's contract with Atletico Madrid was terminated on Tuesday, six months before it was scheduled to end.

"Atletico de Madrid and Diego Costa have reached an agreement for the termination of the striker's contract, which was to end on June 30, 2021," the club said in a statement.

The 32-year-old Brazilian-born forward, who has been capped 24 times by Spain after twice appearing in friendlies for the country of his birth, had asked to leave the club for "personal reasons".

Costa arrived at Atletico in 2006 at the age of 17, going on to play 215 matches over two spells (2010-14 and then 2018-20) either side of three seasons at Chelsea, scoring 83 goals and providing 36 assists.

During his time at Atletico, Costa was part of a squad that won one La Liga title in the 2013-14 season, one Copa del Rey (2013), one Europa League (2018) and two UEFA Super Cups (2010 and 2018).

"The club thanks Diego Costa for his dedication during these years and wishes him well in the next stage of his professional career," the club said.

Former Spain and Chelsea striker Diego Costa's contract with Atletico Madrid was terminated on Tuesday, six months before it was scheduled to end. "Atletico de Madrid and Diego Costa have reached an agreement for the termination of the striker's contract, which was to end on June 30, 2021," the club said in a statement.

Former Spain and Chelsea striker Diego Costa's contract with Atletico Madrid was terminated on Tuesday, six months before it was scheduled to end. "Atletico de Madrid and Diego Costa have reached an agreement for the termination of the striker's contract, which was to end on June 30, 2021," the club said in a statement. The 32-year-old Brazilian-born forward, who has been capped 24 times by Spain after twice appearing in friendlies for the country of his birth, had asked to leave the club for "personal reasons". Costa arrived at Atletico in 2006 at the age of 17, going on to play 215 matches over two spells (2010-14 and then 2018-20) either side of three seasons at Chelsea, scoring 83 goals and providing 36 assists. During his time at Atletico, Costa was part of a squad that won one La Liga title in the 2013-14 season, one Copa del Rey (2013), one Europa League (2018) and two UEFA Super Cups (2010 and 2018). "The club thanks Diego Costa for his dedication during these years and wishes him well in the next stage of his professional career," the club said.

Diego Costa quits Atletico Madrid

Tennis legends Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer, ranked second and fifth in the world respectively, have been re-elected to the ATP players' council, whose term runs until June 2022.

The council, as voted by ATP player members, also saw the re-election of Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime,&nbsp;Australian John Millman,&nbsp;South African Kevin Anderson,&nbsp;Briton Andy Murray&nbsp;and&nbsp;Brazilian Bruno Soares.

In addition,&nbsp;France's Gilles Simon&nbsp;returns to the council having served previous terms, while newcomers&nbsp;Pablo Andujar&nbsp;of Spain and&nbsp;New Zealander Marcus Daniell&nbsp;will serve their first term.

Briton Colin Dowdeswell and Venezuela's Daniel Vallverdu were elected as representatives of retired players and coaches respectively.

The council's president and vice-president will be elected at its first meeting in 2021.

It was presided over until last year by world number one Novak Djokovic.

But the Serb broke away in August to establish a new players' association which he said would include women and was intended to bring players together to give them a louder voice in decision-making.

Federer and Nadal both spoke out against the proposal when it was announced, calling for "unity, not separation".

Tennis legends Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer, ranked second and fifth in the world respectively, have been re-elected to the ATP players' council, whose term runs until June 2022.

Tennis legends Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer, ranked second and fifth in the world respectively, have been re-elected to the ATP players' council, whose term runs until June 2022. The council, as voted by ATP player members, also saw the re-election of Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime, Australian John Millman, South African Kevin Anderson, Briton Andy Murray and Brazilian Bruno Soares. In addition, France's Gilles Simon returns to the council having served previous terms, while newcomers Pablo Andujar of Spain and New Zealander Marcus Daniell will serve their first term. Briton Colin Dowdeswell and Venezuela's Daniel Vallverdu were elected as representatives of retired players and coaches respectively. The council's president and vice-president will be elected at its first meeting in 2021. It was presided over until last year by world number one Novak Djokovic. But the Serb broke away in August to establish a new players' association which he said would include women and was intended to bring players together to give them a louder voice in decision-making. Federer and Nadal both spoke out against the proposal when it was announced, calling for "unity, not separation".

Federer and Nadal re-elected to ATP players' council

Yearender 2020: The year 2020 was supposed to be gruelling and hectic across sports. The year started normally but chaos struck when the novel coronavirus started to take almost every country under its dreaded wings.

Yearender 2020: The year 2020 was supposed to be gruelling and hectic across sports. The year started normally but chaos struck when the novel coronavirus started to take almost every country under its dreaded wings. Sporting events suffered postponement, cancellations. Even the unthinkable happened. The 2020 Tokyo Olympics were also rescheduled by a year. After months of lockdown, life started to return to normalcy. Sporting events resumed albeit behind closed doors while maintaining strict COVID-19 protocols. Tournaments, leagues, series opened up as grounds welcomed back the athletes. Records were shattered, TV ratings reached new heights as fans, who were in a dearth of sport, tuned to watch their favourite teams and players play. As the unforgettable year 2020 comes to an end, let us take a look at some of the most memorable sporting moments of the year. ALSO READ: From Hamilton to Ronaldo: Athletes who tested positive for COVID-19 in 2020 ALSO READ: From NBA to Super Bowl: Here's complete list of winners in 2020 Lionel Messi-Barcelona Saga: With 2020 being a strange year, the footballing world saw one of the unlikeliest incidents. Barcelona megastar Lionel Messi handed in a transfer request, via a burofax, to Barcelona urging the Spanish giants to release him from his duties after serving them for close to two decades. Messi and Barcelona are like a pure love story but Messi’s relation with club president Josep Bartomeu turned sour. The Argentine maestro gave an explosive interview during the entire episode where he revealed how unhappy he is at Nou Camp while revealing why he wanted to leave the club. Ultimately, Barcelona didn’t allow Messi to leave and the Argentine stayed put at Nou Camp to avoid a legal battle with the club he loves. #messileavingbarca exclusive interview with @goal.@fundacionmessi explained to the president his desire to leave and the president always said he can leave at the end of the season, only for the president to have lied.#Barcelona#messileavingbarca#BartomeuOUT#Messi pic.twitter.com/kE3DTF3saU — Marqohpolo 💙💛 (@marqohpolo) September 6, 2020 × Rafael Nadal completes 20th Grand Slam: With uncertainty and risk factor surrounding COVID-19, Rafael Nadal decided to skip the US Open 2020 but returned back to his favourite – Rolland Garros – as he continued to shatter the record books. Nadal steamrolled to the final, without even dropping a set, to set a blockbuster clash with Novak Djokovic. The Spaniard went on to defeat world number one Djokovic 6-0, 6-2, 7-5 to claim his 13th French Open title while equalising Roger Federer’s 20 Grand Slams. Wanted to share a nice picture with you 😉 @rolandgarros 👉🏻 #Paris #13 #Vamos 💪🏻😘 pic.twitter.com/SNgy5YYWCa — Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) October 12, 2020 × Naomi Osaka lets her masks do the talking: The year 2020 saw the entire world, including many high-profile athletes, speak out against racial discrimination. Following the death of an African-American man George Floyd in Minneapolis, under police custody, massive outrage broke out. Naomi Osaka, not only joined the protests in US, but also wore masks during the US Open, with names of black victims of police brutality in the US. Osaka made seven masks for the US Open with a view of reaching the final of the Grand Slam event and not only did she reach the final but also lifted the coveted trophy by winning a nail-biting summit clash. .@naomiosaka walked out in a Breonna Taylor mask for her night match at Arthur Ashe stadium.#USOpen pic.twitter.com/Ubxwst54kl — US Open Tennis (@usopen) September 1, 2020 × IN PICS | Ace Naomi Osaka pays tribute to black lives in a unique fashion! MS Dhoni’s international retirement: Former India captain and one of the most decorated cricketers of all-time, Mahendra Singh Dhoni announced his retirement from international cricket on August 15, 2020. Dhoni, who doesn’t do many interviews, took to social media platform Instagram to post a classic Indian song merged with images from his career as he quit international cricket in the most MS Dhoni-esque fashion one could imagine. The entire cricket fraternity was left emotional by Dhoni’s retirement and poured heartfelt tributes to the legendary Indian captain. Dhoni participated in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 for Chennai Super Kings and will continue to do so for the time being. View this post on Instagram A post shared by M S Dhoni (@mahi7781) × Liverpool win Premier League after 30 years: Under the guidance of Jurgen Klopp, Liverpool ended their 30-year wait of lifting the Premier League title as the Reds comfortably won the league by 18 points. Liverpool accumulated a staggering 99 points, 18 more than second-placed Manchester City, to break the Premier League title drought. In 38 matches, Liverpool won 32 matches while drawing three and losing as many in what is regarded as one of the best seasons for English top-flight club. WE’RE PREMIER LEAGUE CHAMPIONS!! 🏆 pic.twitter.com/qX7Duxoslm — Liverpool FC (@LFC) June 25, 2020 × Australia Women’s Cricket team dominate the world stage, again: Australia Women’s team continued to stamp their authority in world cricket as they lifted their fifth ICC Women’s T20 World Cup title on March 8. It was one of the last major tournaments in world sport that featured capacity crowd. As many as 86, 174 fans witnessed the summit clash between India and Australia at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground in what was a record crowd for a women’s cricket game. Australia won the final by 85 runs. WORLD CHAMPIONS ON HOME SOIL This is for you, Australia 💚💛#CmonAussie pic.twitter.com/IbgIbTGAOK — Australian Women's Cricket Team 🏏 (@AusWomenCricket) March 8, 2020 × Lewis Hamilton equals Michael Schumacher’s record: Hailed as one of the best F1 drivers of all-time, Lewis Hamilton equalled Michael Schumacher’s record of winning seven world championships. Shattering the record books, Hamilton won 11 of the 17 races in 2020 F1 season to take his tally past Schumacher’s 91 Grand Prix wins to 95. Utilising a breathtaking Mercedes car, Hamilton skipped past everyone to record one of the finest seasons of all-time in F1 history. If reports are to be believed then Hamilton will soon be honoured with knighthood and will become one of the few sportspersons to have achieved the tag of ‘Sir’ during their playing days. A day i’ll never forget 🏆#S7ILLRISING pic.twitter.com/O1Y6eD9iQX — Lewis Hamilton (@LewisHamilton) November 15, 2020 × Indian Premier League in the UAE: The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 suffered postponement after the outbreak of coronavirus in India. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) decided to take the money-spinning T20 tournament to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) amid the pandemic and to everyone surprise, it pulled off the event without a hitch. Even though it was played in front of empty stands, IPL 2020 was widely watched and celebrated by the sporting fans and shattered television records. The tournament became the first multi-team cricket tournament to take place after COVID-19 enforced break in March. Happy that we gave people something to cheer for: @mipaltan' five-time IPL winning captain @ImRo45 👏🙌🏆#Dream11IPL #Final #MIvDC pic.twitter.com/l8aUTvtLaa — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) November 10, 2020 × Bayern Munich win it all: German giants Bayern Munich completed a quintuple as they won the German domestic treble while winning the UEFA Champions League and UEFA Super Cup. Due to COVID-19 pandemic, the FIFA Club World Cup was cancelled or else, Bayern Munich would have had a real shot at winning all six trophies in club football – achieved by a few clubs till date. Not only did Bayern Munich compete as a team, their striker Robert Lewandowski, who had a sensational season in front of the net, was awarded UEFA’s Best Player of the Year award as he beat Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo to lift the coveted title. König Lewy hat 2020 regiert! 👑🏆#MiaSanMia @lewy_official #TheBest #LewanGOALski #LEGENDowski pic.twitter.com/xVXoIFCzRg — FC Bayern München (@FCBayern) December 29, 2020 × Team India's Adelaide Horror and Melbourne comeback: The Indian cricket team were bundled out for their lowest-ever Test score (36) by Australia in the Adelaide Test - the first of the four Test matches of the blockbuster series. India were left stunned by the Australian bowlers as the visitors surrendered in front of the hostile Aussie attack. India went on to lose the match by eight wickets and concede an early 1-0 series lead to Australia. While many teams have been down and out with low confidence and self-doubt, India bounced back strong, without their talisman Virat Kohli, in the Boxing Day Test to dominate Australia and win the match by eight wickets. As Indian head coach Ravi Shastri said, this win will be regarded as one of the greatest comebacks/wins of all-time. https://t.co/eQNZo0Ou2G! 👏👏#TeamIndia bounce back in style to beat Australia by 8⃣ wickets to level the four-match series. 👍👍 #AUSvIND Scorecard 👉 https://t.co/lyjpjyeMX5 pic.twitter.com/FgepGB00uE — BCCI (@BCCI) December 29, 2020 ×

Yearender 2020: From Dhoni's retirement to Hamilton's 7th - Check out the most memorable sporting moments

South Africa wrapped up victory by an innings and 45 runs shortly after lunch on the fourth day of the first Test against Sri Lanka at SuperSport Park in Centurion on Tuesday.

Sri Lanka, needing 225 runs to avoid an innings defeat, were bowled out for 180.

Kusal Perera hit a spirited 64 off 87 balls for the tourists and debutant Wanindu Hasaranga slammed 59 off 53 balls, taking advantage as South Africa seemingly tried to lift their over-rate by rushing through six overs of slow bowling after lunch.

Sri Lanka resumed at 65 for two on Tuesday but never recovered after all-rounder Wiaan Mulder dismissed overnight batsman Dinesh Chandimal and Niroshan Dickwella in quick succession.

Batsman Dhananjaya de Silva, who retired hurt after making 79 in the first innings, did not bat for Sri Lanka. He was ruled out of the rest of the tour with a torn thigh muscle.

Sri Lanka suffered a spate of injuries during the match but bowlers Kasun Rajitha and Lahiru Kumara hobbled to the crease to delay the inevitable. Both suffered groin injuries while bowling.

Sri Lanka started the match well, making 396 after winning the toss but an injury-depleted bowling attack conceded 621 runs when South Africa batted, with former captain Faf du Plessis hitting 199. Du Plessis was named man of the match.

It was South Africa’s second win in eight matches in the world Test championship. They have suffered six defeats. Sri Lanka have won one, lost three and drawn one of their five matches.

Chandimal, who appeared to suffer a groin injury towards the end of Monday’s play, resumed his innings on Tuesday and survived for 40 minutes before being bowled for 25 by a ball from the medium-paced Mulder which cut back off the pitch.

Mulder, 22, followed up by having Niroshan Dickwella caught behind. He provided the control that was missing from much of South Africa’s bowling in the first innings during a spell of two for 29 in nine overs.

Fast bowler Anrich Nortje had the left-handed Perera caught behind off a faint edge, with South Africa successfully reviewing what was originally a not-out decision. Perera hit 10 fours.

Debutant Lutho Sipamla and Nortje both finished with two wickets, while Vishwa Fernando was run out without scoring.

The second and final Test starts in nearby Johannesburg on Sunday.

South Africa wrapped up victory by an innings and 45 runs shortly after lunch on the fourth day of the first Test against Sri Lanka at SuperSport Park in Centurion on Tuesday.

South Africa wrapped up victory by an innings and 45 runs shortly after lunch on the fourth day of the first Test against Sri Lanka at SuperSport Park in Centurion on Tuesday. Sri Lanka, needing 225 runs to avoid an innings defeat, were bowled out for 180. Kusal Perera hit a spirited 64 off 87 balls for the tourists and debutant Wanindu Hasaranga slammed 59 off 53 balls, taking advantage as South Africa seemingly tried to lift their over-rate by rushing through six overs of slow bowling after lunch. Sri Lanka resumed at 65 for two on Tuesday but never recovered after all-rounder Wiaan Mulder dismissed overnight batsman Dinesh Chandimal and Niroshan Dickwella in quick succession. Batsman Dhananjaya de Silva, who retired hurt after making 79 in the first innings, did not bat for Sri Lanka. He was ruled out of the rest of the tour with a torn thigh muscle. Sri Lanka suffered a spate of injuries during the match but bowlers Kasun Rajitha and Lahiru Kumara hobbled to the crease to delay the inevitable. Both suffered groin injuries while bowling. Sri Lanka started the match well, making 396 after winning the toss but an injury-depleted bowling attack conceded 621 runs when South Africa batted, with former captain Faf du Plessis hitting 199. Du Plessis was named man of the match. It was South Africa’s second win in eight matches in the world Test championship. They have suffered six defeats. Sri Lanka have won one, lost three and drawn one of their five matches. Chandimal, who appeared to suffer a groin injury towards the end of Monday’s play, resumed his innings on Tuesday and survived for 40 minutes before being bowled for 25 by a ball from the medium-paced Mulder which cut back off the pitch. Mulder, 22, followed up by having Niroshan Dickwella caught behind. He provided the control that was missing from much of South Africa’s bowling in the first innings during a spell of two for 29 in nine overs. Fast bowler Anrich Nortje had the left-handed Perera caught behind off a faint edge, with South Africa successfully reviewing what was originally a not-out decision. Perera hit 10 fours. Debutant Lutho Sipamla and Nortje both finished with two wickets, while Vishwa Fernando was run out without scoring. The second and final Test starts in nearby Johannesburg on Sunday.

South Africa hammer injury-hit Sri Lanka

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> on Tuesday confirmed that a total of 18 tests for COVID-19, out of 1479 players and club staff, returned positive between December 21 and 27. All the players or club staff, who have tested positive for coronavirus, will undergo a self-isolation period for 10 days.

The Premier League provided the information for the purposes of competition integrity and transparency.&nbsp;

The announcement by Premier League comes after the league match between Manchester City and Everton was postponed after reportedly five players and staff members tested positive for COVID-19. The list included first team players such as Kyle Walker and Gabriel Jesus from Manchester City.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chelsea-fail-to-lift-pressure-on-lampard-covid-spike-causes-man-city-postponement-353096" hreflang="en">Chelsea fail to lift pressure on Lampard, Covid spike causes Man City postponement</a>

The 18 new positive reports for COVID-19 in Premier League is the highest since November 9-15 when as many as 16 tested positive for the virus. Premier League has been conducting tests for coronavirus regularly in a bid to safely conduct the English top-flight league.&nbsp;

It would be interesting to see what the Premier League decides in relation to the fate of the tournament considering the new strain has started to wreak havoc in parts of the United Kingdom.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pep-guardiola-named-coach-of-the-century-beats-stiff-competition-from-zidane-alex-ferguson-352943" hreflang="en">Pep Guardiola named Coach of the Century, beats stiff competition from Zidane, Alex Ferguson</a>

<h2>Previous test results in Premier League:</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Round 1: 31 Aug-6 Sep - 1,605 tested, with three testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 2: 7-13 Sep - 2,131 tested, with four testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 3: 14-20 Sep - 1,574 tested, with three testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 4: 21-27 Sep - 1,595 tested, with 10 testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 5: 28 Sep-4 Oct - 1,587 tested, with nine testing positive.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Round 6: 5-11 Oct - 1,128 tested, with five testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 7: 12-18 Oct - 1,575 tested, with eight testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 8: 19-25 Oct - 1,609 tested, with two testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 9: 26 Oct-1 Nov - 1,446 tested, with four testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 10: 2-8 Nov - 1,646 tested, with four testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 11: 9-15 Nov - 1,207 tested, with 16 testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 12: 16-22 Nov - 1,530 tested, with eight testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 13: 23-29 Nov - 1,381 tested, with 10 testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 14: 30 Nov-6 Dec - 1,483 tested, with 14 testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 15: 7-13 Dec - 1,549 tested, with 6 testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 16: 14-20 Dec - 1,569 tested, with 7 testing positive. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

The Premier League on Tuesday confirmed that a total of 18 tests for COVID-19, out of 1479 players and club staff, returned positive between December 21 and 27. All the players or club staff, who have tested positive for coronavirus, will undergo a self-isolation period for 10 days.

The Premier League on Tuesday confirmed that a total of 18 tests for COVID-19, out of 1479 players and club staff, returned positive between December 21 and 27. All the players or club staff, who have tested positive for coronavirus, will undergo a self-isolation period for 10 days. The Premier League provided the information for the purposes of competition integrity and transparency. The announcement by Premier League comes after the league match between Manchester City and Everton was postponed after reportedly five players and staff members tested positive for COVID-19. The list included first team players such as Kyle Walker and Gabriel Jesus from Manchester City. ALSO READ: Chelsea fail to lift pressure on Lampard, Covid spike causes Man City postponement The 18 new positive reports for COVID-19 in Premier League is the highest since November 9-15 when as many as 16 tested positive for the virus. Premier League has been conducting tests for coronavirus regularly in a bid to safely conduct the English top-flight league. It would be interesting to see what the Premier League decides in relation to the fate of the tournament considering the new strain has started to wreak havoc in parts of the United Kingdom. ALSO READ: Pep Guardiola named Coach of the Century, beats stiff competition from Zidane, Alex Ferguson Previous test results in Premier League: Round 1: 31 Aug-6 Sep - 1,605 tested, with three testing positive. Round 2: 7-13 Sep - 2,131 tested, with four testing positive. Round 3: 14-20 Sep - 1,574 tested, with three testing positive. Round 4: 21-27 Sep - 1,595 tested, with 10 testing positive. Round 5: 28 Sep-4 Oct - 1,587 tested, with nine testing positive. Round 6: 5-11 Oct - 1,128 tested, with five testing positive. Round 7: 12-18 Oct - 1,575 tested, with eight testing positive. Round 8: 19-25 Oct - 1,609 tested, with two testing positive. Round 9: 26 Oct-1 Nov - 1,446 tested, with four testing positive. Round 10: 2-8 Nov - 1,646 tested, with four testing positive. Round 11: 9-15 Nov - 1,207 tested, with 16 testing positive. Round 12: 16-22 Nov - 1,530 tested, with eight testing positive. Round 13: 23-29 Nov - 1,381 tested, with 10 testing positive. Round 14: 30 Nov-6 Dec - 1,483 tested, with 14 testing positive. Round 15: 7-13 Dec - 1,549 tested, with 6 testing positive. Round 16: 14-20 Dec - 1,569 tested, with 7 testing positive.

Premier League: 18 new positive COVID-19 cases from latest round of testing

The iconic Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) is set to host the third Test between India and Australia, scheduled to start from January 7. There were dark clouds looming over the venue of the New Year’s Test between Australia and India with a fresh COVID-19 cluster emerging in Sydney. However, Cricket Australia has ratified the decision to go ahead with the original schedule with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday.

December’s COVID-19 outbreak in Sydney forced NSW authorities, Queensland government and Cricket Australia to get into lengthy discussions across the past two weeks.

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JUST IN: The SCG has been confirmed as the venue for the third <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> Test
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1343877229114101760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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However, players are likely to be forced into quarantine and will be only allowed to train, according to reports.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-fined-for-slow-over-rate-in-boxing-day-test-vs-india-353127" hreflang="en">Australia fined for slow-over rate in Boxing Day Test vs India</a>

The interim CEO of Cricket Australia, Nick Hockley, remained committed to an SCG Test even as key stakeholders desired to play the New Year’s Test in Melbourne, which hosted the Boxing Day Test. However, Hockley believed that he could deliver the much-awaited match to the NSW government, the fans and the SCG, as scheduled.&nbsp;

There is a feeling of optimism within Cricket Australia that it can deliver the last two Test of the four-match series without a hitch.

Nick Hockley, Cricket Australia’s Interim CEO, said that health advice from the NSW Government and collaboration with both the NSW and Queensland Governments helped make the decision.

"Despite the many challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, I am delighted to say Cricket Australia remains on track to deliver the men's international series as scheduled," Hockley said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ajinkya-rahane-joins-ms-dhoni-in-a-rare-list-as-india-win-boxing-day-test-vs-australia-353117" hreflang="en">Ajinkya Rahane joins MS Dhoni in a rare list as India win Boxing Day Test vs Australia</a>

"We have met regularly over the past week to assess the unfolding public health situation in Sydney and gauge its impact on border restrictions around the country. To date, we have been able to deliver a safe and successful summer thanks to our detailed biosecurity protocols and the amazing work of so many great people behind the scenes.

"To that end, we have made the decision to keep the New Year's Test at the SCG, which has a wonderful recent history of hosting the Pink Test and Jane McGrath Day on the third day of play.

"We are confident that both this match, and the fourth Test in Brisbane, will play out in a safe and successful manner and thus round out what has been a magnificent men's international program this summer.

"We are very grateful to the Queensland Government for their willingness to work with us to deliver the series as planned in a manner that places the safety and wellbeing of the players, officials, staff and the wider community as its top priority.

"In response to the public health situation in NSW and the requirements of the Queensland Government, CA will put in place appropriate biosecurity measures and we thank all players, staff and broadcasters for their cooperation to play the matches safely."

The iconic Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) is set to host the third Test between India and Australia, scheduled to start from January 7. There were dark clouds looming over the venue of the New Year’s Test between Australia and India with a fresh COVID-19 cluster emerging in Sydney.

The iconic Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) is set to host the third Test between India and Australia, scheduled to start from January 7. There were dark clouds looming over the venue of the New Year’s Test between Australia and India with a fresh COVID-19 cluster emerging in Sydney. However, Cricket Australia has ratified the decision to go ahead with the original schedule with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday. December’s COVID-19 outbreak in Sydney forced NSW authorities, Queensland government and Cricket Australia to get into lengthy discussions across the past two weeks. JUST IN: The SCG has been confirmed as the venue for the third #AUSvIND Test — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 29, 2020 × However, players are likely to be forced into quarantine and will be only allowed to train, according to reports. ALSO READ: Australia fined for slow-over rate in Boxing Day Test vs India The interim CEO of Cricket Australia, Nick Hockley, remained committed to an SCG Test even as key stakeholders desired to play the New Year’s Test in Melbourne, which hosted the Boxing Day Test. However, Hockley believed that he could deliver the much-awaited match to the NSW government, the fans and the SCG, as scheduled. There is a feeling of optimism within Cricket Australia that it can deliver the last two Test of the four-match series without a hitch. Nick Hockley, Cricket Australia’s Interim CEO, said that health advice from the NSW Government and collaboration with both the NSW and Queensland Governments helped make the decision. "Despite the many challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, I am delighted to say Cricket Australia remains on track to deliver the men's international series as scheduled," Hockley said. ALSO READ: Ajinkya Rahane joins MS Dhoni in a rare list as India win Boxing Day Test vs Australia "We have met regularly over the past week to assess the unfolding public health situation in Sydney and gauge its impact on border restrictions around the country. To date, we have been able to deliver a safe and successful summer thanks to our detailed biosecurity protocols and the amazing work of so many great people behind the scenes. "To that end, we have made the decision to keep the New Year's Test at the SCG, which has a wonderful recent history of hosting the Pink Test and Jane McGrath Day on the third day of play. "We are confident that both this match, and the fourth Test in Brisbane, will play out in a safe and successful manner and thus round out what has been a magnificent men's international program this summer. "We are very grateful to the Queensland Government for their willingness to work with us to deliver the series as planned in a manner that places the safety and wellbeing of the players, officials, staff and the wider community as its top priority. "In response to the public health situation in NSW and the requirements of the Queensland Government, CA will put in place appropriate biosecurity measures and we thank all players, staff and broadcasters for their cooperation to play the matches safely."

Sydney Cricket Ground to host third Test vs India, confirms Cricket Australia

French club Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday officially confirmed the sacking of coach Thomas Tuchel, who was with the Ligue 1 giants since July 2018. However, PSG didn’t comment on who will be replacing Tuchel at Parc des Princes.

"After an in-depth analysis of its sporting situation, Paris Saint-Germain decided to terminate Thomas Tuchel's contract," the French giants announced in a statement.

Former Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino is a heavy favourite to take over the charge as the next PSG coach.

Tuchel, whose sacking at PSG was widely reported last week but has been officially confirmed on Tuesday, managed PSG in 127 matches (all competitions) with 95 wins, 12 draws and 20 defeats.

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Club Statement <a href="https://t.co/RQHs4iwNKR">https://t.co/RQHs4iwNKR</a>
— Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) <a href="https://twitter.com/PSG_English/status/1343869369256972292?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-pochettino-to-allegri-managers-that-could-replace-tuchel-in-psg-352117" hreflang="en">From Pochettino to Allegri: Managers that could replace Tuchel in PSG</a>

Tuchel’s trophy cabinet at PSG featured two Ligue 1 titles as well as the French Cup and French League Cup in 2020. The former Borussia Dortmund manager also guided PSG to their first-ever UEFA Champions League final in August 2019, where PSG were strolled to defeat by ultimate winners Bayern Munich 1-0.

Despite managing the superstar-filled PSG squad including the likes of Neymar and Kylian Mbappe among others, Tuchel had reportedly upset the Qatari-backed club after complaining about lack of recognition following PSG’s first-ever Champions League final appearance.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/neymar-in-new-controversy-over-new-year-party-rumors-353095" hreflang="en">Neymar in new controversy over New Year party rumors</a>

"I would like to thank Thomas Tuchel and his staff for all they have contributed to the club," said PSG chairman Nasser al-Khelaifi.

"Thomas has put a lot of energy and passion into the job, and we will of course remember the good moments we shared together. I wish him all the best for the future."

PSG is likely to name their next manager soon with Pochettino likely to take over the charge at Parc des Princes. 
&nbsp;

French club Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday officially confirmed the sacking of coach Thomas Tuchel, who was with the Ligue 1 giants since July 2018. However, PSG didn’t comment on who will be replacing Tuchel at Parc des Princes.

French club Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday officially confirmed the sacking of coach Thomas Tuchel, who was with the Ligue 1 giants since July 2018. However, PSG didn’t comment on who will be replacing Tuchel at Parc des Princes. "After an in-depth analysis of its sporting situation, Paris Saint-Germain decided to terminate Thomas Tuchel's contract," the French giants announced in a statement. Former Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino is a heavy favourite to take over the charge as the next PSG coach. Tuchel, whose sacking at PSG was widely reported last week but has been officially confirmed on Tuesday, managed PSG in 127 matches (all competitions) with 95 wins, 12 draws and 20 defeats. Club Statement https://t.co/RQHs4iwNKR — Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) December 29, 2020 × ALSO READ: From Pochettino to Allegri: Managers that could replace Tuchel in PSG Tuchel’s trophy cabinet at PSG featured two Ligue 1 titles as well as the French Cup and French League Cup in 2020. The former Borussia Dortmund manager also guided PSG to their first-ever UEFA Champions League final in August 2019, where PSG were strolled to defeat by ultimate winners Bayern Munich 1-0. Despite managing the superstar-filled PSG squad including the likes of Neymar and Kylian Mbappe among others, Tuchel had reportedly upset the Qatari-backed club after complaining about lack of recognition following PSG’s first-ever Champions League final appearance. ALSO READ: Neymar in new controversy over New Year party rumors "I would like to thank Thomas Tuchel and his staff for all they have contributed to the club," said PSG chairman Nasser al-Khelaifi. "Thomas has put a lot of energy and passion into the job, and we will of course remember the good moments we shared together. I wish him all the best for the future." PSG is likely to name their next manager soon with Pochettino likely to take over the charge at Parc des Princes.

PSG officially terminate Thomas Tuchel's contract

<o:p></o:p>

<span style="font-size:
12.0pt;font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,sans-serif;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;
color:black;border:none windowtext 1.0pt;mso-border-alt:none windowtext 0cm;
padding:0cm;mso-fareast-language:EN-IN">Virat Kohli leads the ranks with Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Jasprit Bumrah, Shikhar Dhawan, Hardik Pandya, Rishabh Pant, Shreyas Iyer, Yuzvendra Chahal and Ravindra Jadeja close in pursuit, according to the Power Rankings 2020 Sports Report by&nbsp;Wizikey which has highlighted&nbsp;the top 100 Sports newsmakers in India in the year 2020.&nbsp;

<span style="font-size:
12.0pt;font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,sans-serif;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;
color:black;border:none windowtext 1.0pt;mso-border-alt:none windowtext 0cm;
padding:0cm;mso-fareast-language:EN-IN">In 2020,&nbsp;the female cricket team has also seen a lot of buzz after&nbsp;<span style="font-size:
12.0pt;font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,sans-serif;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;
color:black;border:none windowtext 1.0pt;mso-border-alt:none windowtext 0cm;
padding:0cm;mso-fareast-language:EN-IN">winning the Women’s T20 World Cup. Players from the Indian Women’s Cricket team, Hamanpreet Kaur and Mithali Raj have managed to stay in the limelight, owing to their splendid performance in their respective matches.

<span style="font-size:
12.0pt;font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,sans-serif;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;
color:black;border:none windowtext 1.0pt;mso-border-alt:none windowtext 0cm;
padding:0cm;mso-fareast-language:EN-IN"><img alt="Power Rankings 2020" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5cc68172-dc19-423a-82f6-19516635b550" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/1_11.JPG" /><o:p></o:p>

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ajinkya-rahane-joins-ms-dhoni-in-a-rare-list-as-india-win-boxing-day-test-vs-australia-353117" hreflang="en">Ajinkya Rahane joins MS Dhoni in a rare list as India win Boxing Day Test vs Australia</a>

<span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,sans-serif;mso-fareast-font-family:
&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;color:black;border:none windowtext 1.0pt;mso-border-alt:none windowtext 0cm;
padding:0cm;mso-fareast-language:EN-IN">Commenting on the same&nbsp;Anshul Sushil, CEO &amp; Co-Founder, Wizikey, said, “ India has always been a cricket-loving nation. The pandemic did lock down sports enthusiasts to the vicinity of their drawing rooms but failed to hamper their spirits. The Power Rankings 2020 Sports Report is a validation of that infectious energy and zeal that we as a country have felt together.”<o:p></o:p>

<span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,sans-serif;mso-fareast-font-family:
&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;color:black;border:none windowtext 1.0pt;mso-border-alt:none windowtext 0cm;
padding:0cm;mso-fareast-language:EN-IN">“To create the Newsmakers list in each sector, we at Wizikey, leverage Big Data Technologies such as Predictive Analytics and Machine Learning to analyse millions of news data points. That is how we arrive at a rank of 100 newsmakers in each category,” he added.

<span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,sans-serif;mso-fareast-font-family:
&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;color:black;border:none windowtext 1.0pt;mso-border-alt:none windowtext 0cm;
padding:0cm;mso-fareast-language:EN-IN"><img alt="Power Rankings 2020" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d5008f6d-a65f-4c4f-a8ee-d8e52dfe6b89" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/2_2.JPG" /><o:p></o:p>

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-hamilton-to-ronaldo-athletes-who-tested-positive-for-covid-19-in-2020-352776" hreflang="en">From Hamilton to Ronaldo: Athletes who tested positive for COVID-19 in 2020</a>

<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: normal; background: white;"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,sans-serif;mso-fareast-font-family:
&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;color:black;border:none windowtext 1.0pt;mso-border-alt:none windowtext 0cm;
padding:0cm;mso-fareast-language:EN-IN">More interesting finds from the report-<o:p></o:p></h2>

<ul type="disc">
	<li class="MsoNormal" style="color:black;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:
 auto;line-height:normal;mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1;tab-stops:list 36.0pt;
 background:white"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,sans-serif;
 mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;border:none windowtext 1.0pt;
 mso-border-alt:none windowtext 0cm;padding:0cm;mso-fareast-language:EN-IN">17 out of the top 20 sports personalities in the Power Rankings 2020 Sports Report are athletes from the Indian Cricket Team<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal" style="color:black;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:
 auto;line-height:normal;mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1;tab-stops:list 36.0pt;
 background:white"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,sans-serif;
 mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;border:none windowtext 1.0pt;
 mso-border-alt:none windowtext 0cm;padding:0cm;mso-fareast-language:EN-IN">Virat Kolhi received the highest visibility in the rank because of his spectacular performance in the IPL, his stature as a fashion icon and his expected parenthood<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal" style="color:black;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:
 auto;line-height:normal;mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1;tab-stops:list 36.0pt;
 background:white"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,sans-serif;
 mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;border:none windowtext 1.0pt;
 mso-border-alt:none windowtext 0cm;padding:0cm;mso-fareast-language:EN-IN">MC Mary Kom and PV&nbsp;Sindhu were shining in the top 20 since they were recipients of Padma Vibhushan and Padma Bhushan awards respectively among the eight sportspeople named for these prestigious awards<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal" style="color:black;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:
 auto;line-height:normal;mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1;tab-stops:list 36.0pt;
 background:white"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,sans-serif;
 mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;border:none windowtext 1.0pt;
 mso-border-alt:none windowtext 0cm;padding:0cm;mso-fareast-language:EN-IN">Indian Women's Hockey captain Rani Rampal was awarded the ‘World Games Athlete of the year’ and also the Padma Shri award, therefore her news presence pushed up to Rank 37<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal" style="color:black;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;margin-bottom:
 12.0pt;line-height:normal;mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1;tab-stops:list 36.0pt;
 background:white"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,sans-serif;
 mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;border:none windowtext 1.0pt;
 mso-border-alt:none windowtext 0cm;padding:0cm;mso-fareast-language:EN-IN">Other than in cricket and football in all other sports, women players have gained higher visibility when compared to their male counterparts<o:p></o:p><o:p></o:p></li>
</ul>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

Virat Kohli leads the ranks with Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Jasprit Bumrah, Shikhar Dhawan, Hardik Pandya, Rishabh Pant, Shreyas Iyer, Yuzvendra Chahal and Ravindra Jadeja close in pursuit, according to the Power Rankings 2020 Sports Report by Wizikey which has highlighted the top 100 Sports newsmakers in India in the year 2020.

Virat Kohli leads the ranks with Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Jasprit Bumrah, Shikhar Dhawan, Hardik Pandya, Rishabh Pant, Shreyas Iyer, Yuzvendra Chahal and Ravindra Jadeja close in pursuit, according to the Power Rankings 2020 Sports Report by Wizikey which has highlighted the top 100 Sports newsmakers in India in the year 2020. In 2020, the female cricket team has also seen a lot of buzz after winning the Women’s T20 World Cup. Players from the Indian Women’s Cricket team, Hamanpreet Kaur and Mithali Raj have managed to stay in the limelight, owing to their splendid performance in their respective matches. ALSO READ: Ajinkya Rahane joins MS Dhoni in a rare list as India win Boxing Day Test vs Australia Commenting on the same Anshul Sushil, CEO & Co-Founder, Wizikey, said, “ India has always been a cricket-loving nation. The pandemic did lock down sports enthusiasts to the vicinity of their drawing rooms but failed to hamper their spirits. The Power Rankings 2020 Sports Report is a validation of that infectious energy and zeal that we as a country have felt together.” “To create the Newsmakers list in each sector, we at Wizikey, leverage Big Data Technologies such as Predictive Analytics and Machine Learning to analyse millions of news data points. That is how we arrive at a rank of 100 newsmakers in each category,” he added. ALSO READ: From Hamilton to Ronaldo: Athletes who tested positive for COVID-19 in 2020 More interesting finds from the report- 17 out of the top 20 sports personalities in the Power Rankings 2020 Sports Report are athletes from the Indian Cricket Team Virat Kolhi received the highest visibility in the rank because of his spectacular performance in the IPL, his stature as a fashion icon and his expected parenthood MC Mary Kom and PV Sindhu were shining in the top 20 since they were recipients of Padma Vibhushan and Padma Bhushan awards respectively among the eight sportspeople named for these prestigious awards Indian Women's Hockey captain Rani Rampal was awarded the ‘World Games Athlete of the year’ and also the Padma Shri award, therefore her news presence pushed up to Rank 37 Other than in cricket and football in all other sports, women players have gained higher visibility when compared to their male counterparts

Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul top the charts: Power Rankings 2020 Sports Report

Australia have been fined 40 per cent of their match fee and penalised four ICC World Test Championship points for maintaining a slow over-rate against India in the second Test that ended in Melbourne on Tuesday.

David Boon of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees imposed the sanction after Tim Paine’s side was ruled to be two overs short of the target after time allowances were taken into consideration.

In accordance with Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which relates to minimum over-rate offences, players are fined 20 per cent of their match fees for every over their side fails to bowl in the allotted time. In addition, as per Article 16.11.2 of the ICC World Test Championship playing conditions, a side is penalised two points for each over short. Consequently, four World Test Championship points have been deducted from Australia’s points total.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ajinkya-rahane-joins-ms-dhoni-in-a-rare-list-as-india-win-boxing-day-test-vs-australia-353117" hreflang="en">Ajinkya Rahane joins MS Dhoni in a rare list as India win Boxing Day Test vs Australia</a>

Paine pleaded guilty to the offence and accepted the proposed sanction, so there was no need for a formal hearing.

On-field umpires Bruce Oxenford and Paul Reiffel, third umpire Paul Wilson and fourth umpire Gerard Abood leveled the charge. 
Australia lost the Boxing Day Test vs India by eight wickets as Ajinkya Rahane’s men bounced back after Adelaide Horror to equalise the four-match Test series 1-1. Rahane was awarded Man of the Match for his incredible century in the first innings, which laid the platform for India to take charge in the Boxing Day Test.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-is-very-passionate-ajinkya-is-calm-ravi-shastri-on-captaincy-comparison-after-boxing-day-test-353109" hreflang="en">Virat is very passionate, Ajinkya is calm: Ravi Shastri on captaincy comparison after Boxing Day Test</a>

“Really proud of all the players. Played really well. Want to give credit to the debutants Siraj and Gill, the character they showed after the Adelaide loss was great to see. Character was important for us, especially after losing Umesh in the second innings. The talk was all about showing the attitude and intent on the field. As I said, character. Adelaide was about one hour that took the game away from us. Lots to learn for even now. Australia applied themselves with their last five wickets,” said Rahane after the completion of Boxing Day Test.&nbsp;

India will now take on Australia in the third Test, scheduled to be played at the Sydney Cricket Ground from January 7. 
&nbsp;

Australia have been fined 40 per cent of their match fee and penalised four ICC World Test Championship points for maintaining a slow over-rate against India in the second Test that ended in Melbourne on Tuesday.

Australia have been fined 40 per cent of their match fee and penalised four ICC World Test Championship points for maintaining a slow over-rate against India in the second Test that ended in Melbourne on Tuesday. David Boon of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees imposed the sanction after Tim Paine’s side was ruled to be two overs short of the target after time allowances were taken into consideration. In accordance with Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which relates to minimum over-rate offences, players are fined 20 per cent of their match fees for every over their side fails to bowl in the allotted time. In addition, as per Article 16.11.2 of the ICC World Test Championship playing conditions, a side is penalised two points for each over short. Consequently, four World Test Championship points have been deducted from Australia’s points total. ALSO READ: Ajinkya Rahane joins MS Dhoni in a rare list as India win Boxing Day Test vs Australia Paine pleaded guilty to the offence and accepted the proposed sanction, so there was no need for a formal hearing. On-field umpires Bruce Oxenford and Paul Reiffel, third umpire Paul Wilson and fourth umpire Gerard Abood leveled the charge. Australia lost the Boxing Day Test vs India by eight wickets as Ajinkya Rahane’s men bounced back after Adelaide Horror to equalise the four-match Test series 1-1. Rahane was awarded Man of the Match for his incredible century in the first innings, which laid the platform for India to take charge in the Boxing Day Test. ALSO READ: Virat is very passionate, Ajinkya is calm: Ravi Shastri on captaincy comparison after Boxing Day Test “Really proud of all the players. Played really well. Want to give credit to the debutants Siraj and Gill, the character they showed after the Adelaide loss was great to see. Character was important for us, especially after losing Umesh in the second innings. The talk was all about showing the attitude and intent on the field. As I said, character. Adelaide was about one hour that took the game away from us. Lots to learn for even now. Australia applied themselves with their last five wickets,” said Rahane after the completion of Boxing Day Test. India will now take on Australia in the third Test, scheduled to be played at the Sydney Cricket Ground from January 7.

Australia fined for slow-over rate in Boxing Day Test vs India

Ajinkya Rahane on Tuesday joined former Indian captain MS Dhoni in a rare list of captains to have won their first three Tests. Rahane led India to a memorable eight-wicket win against Australia in the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.&nbsp;

Rahane became the second Indian captain to win each of this first three Tests a captain after MS Dhoni. Rahane first led India in a Test match against Australia in Dharamsala which the hosts won by eight wickets in 2016/17.

Rahane’s second Test win as a captain came against Afghanistan in what was a one-off Test in Bengaluru in 2018 where the hosts defeated Afghanistan by an innings and 262 runs. And his third win as a Test captain came on Tuesday as India defeated Australia by eight wickets at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/couldnt-be-happier-for-jinks-virat-kohli-lauds-ajinkya-rahane-co-for-historic-win-in-boxing-day-test-353106" hreflang="en">'Couldn't be happier for Jinks' - Virat Kohli lauds Ajinkya Rahane &amp; Co. for historic win in Boxing Day Test</a>

<h2>Ajinkya Rahane as skipper:</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Beat Australia by eight wickets, Dharamsala 2016/17</li>
	<li>Beat Afghanistan by innings and 262 runs, Bengaluru 2018</li>
	<li>Beat Australia by eight wickets, MCG 2020/21 *</li>
</ul>

Furthermore, Melbourne became India’s best away ground as the visitors registered their fourth win in the iconic stadium (in 14 Tests). India’s second-most wins at an overseas venue are at Queen’s Park Oval in Port of Spain (3 in 13 Tests) with Sabina Park in Kingston, and SSC in Colombo all locked at three wins for India.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/icc-announces-decade-awards-from-kohli-smith-to-perry-heres-complete-list-of-winners-352996" hreflang="en">ICC announces Decade Awards: From Kohli, Smith to Perry - Here's complete list of winners</a>

<h2>Most wins for India at an overseas venue:</h2>

<ul>
	<li>4 MCG, Melbourne (14 Tests)</li>
	<li>3 Queen's Park Oval, Port of Spain (13 Tests)</li>
	<li>3 Sabina Park, Kingston (13 Tests)</li>
	<li>3 SSC, Colombo (9 Tests)</li>
</ul>

Now, India would be looking to carry the winning run when they take the field for the third Test from January 7 at the Sydney Cricket Ground.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Ajinkya Rahane on Tuesday joined former Indian captain MS Dhoni in a rare list of captains to have won their first three Tests. Rahane led India to a memorable eight-wicket win against Australia in the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

Ajinkya Rahane on Tuesday joined former Indian captain MS Dhoni in a rare list of captains to have won their first three Tests. Rahane led India to a memorable eight-wicket win against Australia in the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Rahane became the second Indian captain to win each of this first three Tests a captain after MS Dhoni. Rahane first led India in a Test match against Australia in Dharamsala which the hosts won by eight wickets in 2016/17. Rahane’s second Test win as a captain came against Afghanistan in what was a one-off Test in Bengaluru in 2018 where the hosts defeated Afghanistan by an innings and 262 runs. And his third win as a Test captain came on Tuesday as India defeated Australia by eight wickets at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. ALSO READ: 'Couldn't be happier for Jinks' - Virat Kohli lauds Ajinkya Rahane & Co. for historic win in Boxing Day Test Ajinkya Rahane as skipper: Beat Australia by eight wickets, Dharamsala 2016/17 Beat Afghanistan by innings and 262 runs, Bengaluru 2018 Beat Australia by eight wickets, MCG 2020/21 * Furthermore, Melbourne became India’s best away ground as the visitors registered their fourth win in the iconic stadium (in 14 Tests). India’s second-most wins at an overseas venue are at Queen’s Park Oval in Port of Spain (3 in 13 Tests) with Sabina Park in Kingston, and SSC in Colombo all locked at three wins for India. ALSO READ: ICC announces Decade Awards: From Kohli, Smith to Perry - Here's complete list of winners Most wins for India at an overseas venue: 4 MCG, Melbourne (14 Tests) 3 Queen's Park Oval, Port of Spain (13 Tests) 3 Sabina Park, Kingston (13 Tests) 3 SSC, Colombo (9 Tests) Now, India would be looking to carry the winning run when they take the field for the third Test from January 7 at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

Ajinkya Rahane joins MS Dhoni in a rare list as India win Boxing Day Test vs Australia

India on Tuesday completed a major turnaround to script one of the greatest wins in Test cricket as Ajinkya Rahane and Co., without the likes of Virat Kohli and Mohammed Shami, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/border-gavaskar-trophy-india-win-the-second-test-level-series-at-1-1-353075">defeated Australia by eight wickets at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground in what was the Boxing Day Test</a>. After the memorable win, Indian head coach Ravi Shastri heaped praise on Ajinkya Rahane and his free-flowing century in the first innings while calling the stand-in skipper’s century as the turning point of the match. Shastri further said that while Kohli is a very passionate captain, Rahane is more calm and composed.

Rahane scored 112 runs before getting run out while taking a tight run with Ravindra Jadeja. However, Rahane’s knock was critical in helping India gain a 131-run lead in the first innings – which made life easier for the visitors.&nbsp;

Asked about the turning point of the match, Shastri said, "I think, it was the innings of Ajinkya Rahane."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/couldnt-be-happier-for-jinks-virat-kohli-lauds-ajinkya-rahane-co-for-historic-win-in-boxing-day-test-353106" hreflang="en">'Couldn't be happier for Jinks' - Virat Kohli lauds Ajinkya Rahane &amp; Co. for historic win in Boxing Day Test</a>

"The discipline, you know on such a big stage...When he (Rahane) went out to bat, we were 2 down for 60, and then to bat six hours, on probably the toughest day to bat, because it was overcast all day and he batted for six hours, unbelievable concentration," the former batsman recalled.

"I thought that was the turning point. His innings was the turning point," he added at the post-match virtual press conference.

Rahane’s century (112 runs) came in 223 deliveries as he batted out for the majority of Indian innings, holding fort at one end and stitching crucial partnerships.&nbsp;

Shastri was also asked about the difference in captaincy style of Rahane and regular skipper Virat Kohli, who is currently on paternity leave.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/icc-announces-decade-awards-from-kohli-smith-to-perry-heres-complete-list-of-winners-352996" hreflang="en">ICC announces Decade Awards: From Kohli, Smith to Perry - Here's complete list of winners</a>

"See, both are good readers of the game, Virat is very passionate, Ajinkya, on the other hand, is very calm and composed, and it's their characters.

"Virat is more in your face while Ajinkya is quite prepared to sit back in a very calm and composed manner, but deep inside he knows what he wants," he opined.

India on Tuesday completed a major turnaround to script one of the greatest wins in Test cricket as Ajinkya Rahane and Co., without the likes of Virat Kohli and Mohammed Shami, defeated Australia by eight wickets at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground in what was the Boxing Day Test.

India on Tuesday completed a major turnaround to script one of the greatest wins in Test cricket as Ajinkya Rahane and Co., without the likes of Virat Kohli and Mohammed Shami, defeated Australia by eight wickets at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground in what was the Boxing Day Test. After the memorable win, Indian head coach Ravi Shastri heaped praise on Ajinkya Rahane and his free-flowing century in the first innings while calling the stand-in skipper’s century as the turning point of the match. Shastri further said that while Kohli is a very passionate captain, Rahane is more calm and composed. Rahane scored 112 runs before getting run out while taking a tight run with Ravindra Jadeja. However, Rahane’s knock was critical in helping India gain a 131-run lead in the first innings – which made life easier for the visitors. Asked about the turning point of the match, Shastri said, "I think, it was the innings of Ajinkya Rahane." ALSO READ: 'Couldn't be happier for Jinks' - Virat Kohli lauds Ajinkya Rahane & Co. for historic win in Boxing Day Test "The discipline, you know on such a big stage...When he (Rahane) went out to bat, we were 2 down for 60, and then to bat six hours, on probably the toughest day to bat, because it was overcast all day and he batted for six hours, unbelievable concentration," the former batsman recalled. "I thought that was the turning point. His innings was the turning point," he added at the post-match virtual press conference. Rahane’s century (112 runs) came in 223 deliveries as he batted out for the majority of Indian innings, holding fort at one end and stitching crucial partnerships. Shastri was also asked about the difference in captaincy style of Rahane and regular skipper Virat Kohli, who is currently on paternity leave. ALSO READ: ICC announces Decade Awards: From Kohli, Smith to Perry - Here's complete list of winners "See, both are good readers of the game, Virat is very passionate, Ajinkya, on the other hand, is very calm and composed, and it's their characters. "Virat is more in your face while Ajinkya is quite prepared to sit back in a very calm and composed manner, but deep inside he knows what he wants," he opined.

Virat is very passionate, Ajinkya is calm: Ravi Shastri on captaincy comparison after Boxing Day Test

The banter and rivalry between cricket fans of different nations on social media have a long history but a New Zealand fan took everyone on the stadium and people watching around the world by surprise by holding a whiteboard that had noted down the ‘mistakes’ of the Pakistan cricket team.

The mistakes made by Pakistan comprises dropped catches, misfields, poor throws, poor use of the DRS.

The photo of the cricket fan went viral immediately with praising comments on his quirky observation of the game as New Zealand batsmen piled misery on the visitors.&nbsp; 
Batting first, at the Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui, posted a mammoth target of 431, courtesy a splendid century by Kane Williamson.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sri-lankas-dhananjaya-de-silva-ruled-out-of-south-africa-series-352765" hreflang="en">Sri Lanka's Dhananjaya de Silva ruled out of South Africa series</a>

The like of Ross Taylor (70), Henry Nicholls (56), BJ Watling (73) and Kyle Jamieson (32) made the life of the Pakistan cricketers tougher in what was a tiring day for the Mohammad Rizwan-led outfit.&nbsp;

During New Zealand’s innings, Pakistani fielders made a few fielding errors and were sloppy with their decision on taking the DRS and the fielders continued to drop catches to give lifelines to the Kiwi batters.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/top-knock-from-jinks-virat-kohli-lauds-ajinkya-rahanes-unbeaten-century-at-mcg-352760" hreflang="en">'Top knock from Jinks': Virat Kohli lauds Ajinkya Rahane's unbeaten century at MCG</a>

After scoring 421, Pakistan could only manage 239 runs on the board as New Zealand pacers wreaked havoc with the ball. While Jamieson picked up three wickets, Soutee, Boult and Wagner ended up with a brace each.&nbsp;

At the end of Day 3, Pakistan 'were bundled out on 239 and trailed by 192 runs, as a heavy defeat loom large for the visitors in first Test of the two-match series. 
&nbsp;

The banter and rivalry between cricket fans of different nations on social media have a long history but a New Zealand fan took everyone on the stadium and people watching around the world by surprise by holding a whiteboard that had noted down the ‘mistakes’ of the Pakistan cricket team.

The banter and rivalry between cricket fans of different nations on social media have a long history but a New Zealand fan took everyone on the stadium and people watching around the world by surprise by holding a whiteboard that had noted down the ‘mistakes’ of the Pakistan cricket team. The mistakes made by Pakistan comprises dropped catches, misfields, poor throws, poor use of the DRS. The photo of the cricket fan went viral immediately with praising comments on his quirky observation of the game as New Zealand batsmen piled misery on the visitors. Batting first, at the Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui, posted a mammoth target of 431, courtesy a splendid century by Kane Williamson. ALSO READ: Sri Lanka's Dhananjaya de Silva ruled out of South Africa series The like of Ross Taylor (70), Henry Nicholls (56), BJ Watling (73) and Kyle Jamieson (32) made the life of the Pakistan cricketers tougher in what was a tiring day for the Mohammad Rizwan-led outfit. During New Zealand’s innings, Pakistani fielders made a few fielding errors and were sloppy with their decision on taking the DRS and the fielders continued to drop catches to give lifelines to the Kiwi batters. ALSO READ: 'Top knock from Jinks': Virat Kohli lauds Ajinkya Rahane's unbeaten century at MCG After scoring 421, Pakistan could only manage 239 runs on the board as New Zealand pacers wreaked havoc with the ball. While Jamieson picked up three wickets, Soutee, Boult and Wagner ended up with a brace each. At the end of Day 3, Pakistan 'were bundled out on 239 and trailed by 192 runs, as a heavy defeat loom large for the visitors in first Test of the two-match series.

New Zealand fans brutally troll Pakistan with a viral placard during Boxing Day Test

ICC announces Decade Awards: From Kohli, Smith to Perry - Here's complete list of winners

The International Cricket Council on Sunday announced the Team of the Decade for all three formats and on Monday, ICC revealed the winners of all individual awards. Irked by the ICC Team of the Decade, which features none of the Pakistan players, former speedster Shoaib Akhtar lashed out at ICC for ignoring Pakistani players from its list while saying they announced “IPL Team of the Decade”.&nbsp;

Akhtar, in his YouTube channel, said that he thinks ICC forgot that Pakistan is also a cricket-playing member while arguing that Babar Azam should have been in ICC’s T20I Team of the Decade.&nbsp;

“I think ICC forgot that Pakistan is also a member of ICC and they also play T20I cricket. They did not pick Babar Azam, who is currently the number one batsman in the ICC T20I rankings.

TRENDING |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-spirit-of-the-decade-award-when-ms-dhoni-recalled-ian-bell-during-nottingham-test-in-2011-watch-352933" hreflang="en">ICC Spirit of the Decade Award: When MS Dhoni recalled Ian Bell during Nottingham Test in 2011- Watch</a>

“There is no big player than Babar Azam in T20I. He is a top-scorer for Pakistan and his averages show what he has done for the country, even in comparison with Virat Kohli. It is so embarrassing and I’m sure after this video they will think that they have to announce the World Team of the Decade, not the IPL team,” Shoaib Akhtar said on his YouTube channel.

<h2>WATCH: Shoaib Akhtar slams ICC for not including Pakistan cricketers in Team of the Decade</h2>

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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-named-icc-male-cricketer-of-the-decade-odi-player-of-the-decade-check-full-list-352886" hreflang="en">Virat Kohli named ICC Male Cricketer of the Decade, ODI Player of the Decade - Check full list</a>

Akhtar further accused ICC of announcing an IPL team instead of World XI team.

“They did not pick a single player from Pakistan in the team. We don’t need your (ICC) T20I Team of the Decade because you announced the IPL team, not a world cricket team,” Akhtar said.

The ‘Rawalpindi Express’ went on to slam ICC for commercialising cricket while accusing them of thinking only about money, sponsorship and TV rights.&nbsp; 
“ICC only thinks about money, sponsorships and TV rights. They introduced two new balls and three powerplays (in the ODI cricket). Where is Dennis Lillee, Jeff Thomson, big five of West Indies, Wasim (Akram) and Waqar (Younis)?

“Where are the world’s fastest bowlers and leg-spinners? They went away because ICC commercialised and materialised cricket so much and allowed ten leagues to earn more revenue,” Akhtar said.

The International Cricket Council on Sunday announced the Team of the Decade for all three formats and on Monday, ICC revealed the winners of all individual awards.

The International Cricket Council on Sunday announced the Team of the Decade for all three formats and on Monday, ICC revealed the winners of all individual awards. Irked by the ICC Team of the Decade, which features none of the Pakistan players, former speedster Shoaib Akhtar lashed out at ICC for ignoring Pakistani players from its list while saying they announced “IPL Team of the Decade”. Akhtar, in his YouTube channel, said that he thinks ICC forgot that Pakistan is also a cricket-playing member while arguing that Babar Azam should have been in ICC’s T20I Team of the Decade. “I think ICC forgot that Pakistan is also a member of ICC and they also play T20I cricket. They did not pick Babar Azam, who is currently the number one batsman in the ICC T20I rankings. TRENDING | ICC Spirit of the Decade Award: When MS Dhoni recalled Ian Bell during Nottingham Test in 2011- Watch “There is no big player than Babar Azam in T20I. He is a top-scorer for Pakistan and his averages show what he has done for the country, even in comparison with Virat Kohli. It is so embarrassing and I’m sure after this video they will think that they have to announce the World Team of the Decade, not the IPL team,” Shoaib Akhtar said on his YouTube channel. WATCH: Shoaib Akhtar slams ICC for not including Pakistan cricketers in Team of the Decade × ALSO READ: Virat Kohli named ICC Male Cricketer of the Decade, ODI Player of the Decade - Check full list Akhtar further accused ICC of announcing an IPL team instead of World XI team. “They did not pick a single player from Pakistan in the team. We don’t need your (ICC) T20I Team of the Decade because you announced the IPL team, not a world cricket team,” Akhtar said. The ‘Rawalpindi Express’ went on to slam ICC for commercialising cricket while accusing them of thinking only about money, sponsorship and TV rights. “ICC only thinks about money, sponsorships and TV rights. They introduced two new balls and three powerplays (in the ODI cricket). Where is Dennis Lillee, Jeff Thomson, big five of West Indies, Wasim (Akram) and Waqar (Younis)? “Where are the world’s fastest bowlers and leg-spinners? They went away because ICC commercialised and materialised cricket so much and allowed ten leagues to earn more revenue,” Akhtar said.

'Named an IPL team" - Shoaib Akhtar cries foul as ICC doesn't include Pakistan players in Team of the Decade - Watch

Barcelona maestro Lionel Messi has said that he wants to play in the United States but said he will not negotiate with any clubs until his current contract with Barca expires in June. Messi can start negotiations with other clubs in January with the current contract running out at the end of the season.

Speculations have been rife since Messi handed a transfer request in August before continuing with the Spanish giants. However, Messi made it clear that even if he leaves Barcelona one day, he would return back to the Spanish club in some capacity.

"I don't know what I'm going to do yet," Messi told Spanish television channel La Sexta.

"I'm going to wait until the season ends. I would like to play in the United States and experience life and the league there but ultimately come back to Barcelona in some capacity.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pep-guardiola-named-coach-of-the-century-beats-stiff-competition-from-zidane-alex-ferguson-352943" hreflang="en">Pep Guardiola named Coach of the Century, beats stiff competition from Zidane, Alex Ferguson</a>

"Right now the most important thing is to focus on the team and finish the season well, to focus on trying to win trophies and not get distracted by other things."

Barcelona, who went trophyless last season, are currently sitting fifth in La Liga. This is their worst start to a league campaign in 33 years.

Messi has been with Barcelona since the age of 13 and is club’s record goalscorer while winning 10 La Liga titles, four UEFA Champions League among other trophies. He has won the Ballon d’Or a record six times.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-hamilton-to-ronaldo-athletes-who-tested-positive-for-covid-19-in-2020-352776" hreflang="en">From Hamilton to Ronaldo: Athletes who tested positive for COVID-19 in 2020</a>

Messi admitted that Barcelona are going through their worst phase financially and footballing wise while adding that he would be difficult to bring back the club where it used to be. The Argentine legend described Josep Maria Bartomeu’s reign as a “disaster”. Bartomeu had resigned in October.

"It's a difficult moment for the club, for everyone, but those inside the club know that it's in a really bad situation, things are very bad and it's going to be difficult to return the club to where it used to be," he added.

Barcelona maestro Lionel Messi has said that he wants to play in the United States but said he will not negotiate with any clubs until his current contract with Barca expires in June.

Barcelona maestro Lionel Messi has said that he wants to play in the United States but said he will not negotiate with any clubs until his current contract with Barca expires in June. Messi can start negotiations with other clubs in January with the current contract running out at the end of the season. Speculations have been rife since Messi handed a transfer request in August before continuing with the Spanish giants. However, Messi made it clear that even if he leaves Barcelona one day, he would return back to the Spanish club in some capacity. "I don't know what I'm going to do yet," Messi told Spanish television channel La Sexta. "I'm going to wait until the season ends. I would like to play in the United States and experience life and the league there but ultimately come back to Barcelona in some capacity. ALSO READ: Pep Guardiola named Coach of the Century, beats stiff competition from Zidane, Alex Ferguson "Right now the most important thing is to focus on the team and finish the season well, to focus on trying to win trophies and not get distracted by other things." Barcelona, who went trophyless last season, are currently sitting fifth in La Liga. This is their worst start to a league campaign in 33 years. Messi has been with Barcelona since the age of 13 and is club’s record goalscorer while winning 10 La Liga titles, four UEFA Champions League among other trophies. He has won the Ballon d’Or a record six times. ALSO READ: From Hamilton to Ronaldo: Athletes who tested positive for COVID-19 in 2020 Messi admitted that Barcelona are going through their worst phase financially and footballing wise while adding that he would be difficult to bring back the club where it used to be. The Argentine legend described Josep Maria Bartomeu’s reign as a “disaster”. Bartomeu had resigned in October. "It's a difficult moment for the club, for everyone, but those inside the club know that it's in a really bad situation, things are very bad and it's going to be difficult to return the club to where it used to be," he added.

Lionel Messi wants to play in United States, says 'want to experience life there'

Pep Guardiola has been awarded the Coach of the Century for 2001-2020 for his trophy-laden record at Barcelona B, Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Manchester City. The current Man City boss has won every possible trophy since starting his career as a manager at Barcelona B and has since won trophies regularly for his former sides – Barcelona and Bayern Munich – and continues to do so for Premier League club Manchester City.

Guardiola (34%) has been awarded the Coach of the Century award by Globe Soccer, beating tight competition from Sir Alex Ferguson (27%), Zinedine Zidane (30%)&nbsp;and Jose Mourinho (8%). Globe Soccer described the accolade as “the crowning achievement of his career”.

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🎦 Pep Guardiola, awarded ‘Coach of the Century 2001-2020’, wasn't able to be in Dubai to pick up the Globe Soccer Award, but he still had a message to deliver <a href="https://t.co/WaMnbOV89C">pic.twitter.com/WaMnbOV89C</a>
— Globe Soccer Awards (@Globe_Soccer) <a href="https://twitter.com/Globe_Soccer/status/1343485802521755648?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-hamilton-to-ronaldo-athletes-who-tested-positive-for-covid-19-in-2020-352776" hreflang="en">From Hamilton to Ronaldo: Athletes who tested positive for COVID-19 in 2020</a>

Guardiola started his managerial career in 2007 before taking over the charge at Barcelona, where he was a player and captain during his playing days in 2008. After winning every possible trophy for Barcelona, the former Spanish midfielder took over the charge at Bayern Munich.&nbsp;

Trophies came for Guardiola in Bayern Munich as well, but it is the UEFA Champions League trophy which has alluded him since his Barca days. Guardiola ended his three-year stint with Bayern Munich in 2016 and took over the charge at the Etihad Stadium, the home to Manchester City, where fans and pundits predicted life will be hard for the manager.

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🏆In what is the crowning achievement of an amazing career, Josep Guardiola, considered one of the best coaches in the history of football, wins COACH OF THE CENTURY⁣ 2001-2020⁣ ⚽ 🌟<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Guardiola?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Guardiola</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/globesoccer?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#globesoccer</a> <a href="https://t.co/RXyYsPuOAw">pic.twitter.com/RXyYsPuOAw</a>
— Globe Soccer Awards (@Globe_Soccer) <a href="https://twitter.com/Globe_Soccer/status/1343217229261918210?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-pochettino-to-allegri-managers-that-could-replace-tuchel-in-psg-352117" hreflang="en">From Pochettino to Allegri: Managers that could replace Tuchel in PSG</a>

Since arriving at Manchester City, Guardiola has won eight trophies, including two Premier League titles and three League Cups. The two league trophies made Man City the first team to record consecutive titles in ten years while recording two highest point totals until that point. Guardiola also guided Manchester City to their first-ever English domestic treble – which wasn’t achieved by any team until that point.&nbsp;

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🏆 🇪🇸 PEP GUARDIOLA presented with the COACH OF THE CENTURY 2001-2020 Globe Soccer Award<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Guardiola?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Guardiola</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/globesoccer?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#globesoccer</a> <a href="https://t.co/3w4ubW6P8q">pic.twitter.com/3w4ubW6P8q</a>
— Globe Soccer Awards (@Globe_Soccer) <a href="https://twitter.com/Globe_Soccer/status/1343217181228675074?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Now, he has been awarded the Coach of the Century award, beating off stiff competition from Sir Alex Ferguson, Zinedine Zidane and Jose Mourinho.

Pep Guardiola has been awarded the Coach of the Century for 2001-2020 for his trophy-laden record at Barcelona B, Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Manchester City. The current Man City boss has won every possible trophy since starting his career as a manager at Barcelona B and has since won trophies regularly for his former sides – Barcelona and Bayern Munich – and continues to do so for Premier League club Manchester City.

Pep Guardiola has been awarded the Coach of the Century for 2001-2020 for his trophy-laden record at Barcelona B, Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Manchester City. The current Man City boss has won every possible trophy since starting his career as a manager at Barcelona B and has since won trophies regularly for his former sides – Barcelona and Bayern Munich – and continues to do so for Premier League club Manchester City. Guardiola (34%) has been awarded the Coach of the Century award by Globe Soccer, beating tight competition from Sir Alex Ferguson (27%), Zinedine Zidane (30%) and Jose Mourinho (8%). Globe Soccer described the accolade as “the crowning achievement of his career”. 🎦 Pep Guardiola, awarded ‘Coach of the Century 2001-2020’, wasn't able to be in Dubai to pick up the Globe Soccer Award, but he still had a message to deliver pic.twitter.com/WaMnbOV89C — Globe Soccer Awards (@Globe_Soccer) December 28, 2020 × ALSO READ: From Hamilton to Ronaldo: Athletes who tested positive for COVID-19 in 2020 Guardiola started his managerial career in 2007 before taking over the charge at Barcelona, where he was a player and captain during his playing days in 2008. After winning every possible trophy for Barcelona, the former Spanish midfielder took over the charge at Bayern Munich. Trophies came for Guardiola in Bayern Munich as well, but it is the UEFA Champions League trophy which has alluded him since his Barca days. Guardiola ended his three-year stint with Bayern Munich in 2016 and took over the charge at the Etihad Stadium, the home to Manchester City, where fans and pundits predicted life will be hard for the manager. 🏆In what is the crowning achievement of an amazing career, Josep Guardiola, considered one of the best coaches in the history of football, wins COACH OF THE CENTURY⁣ 2001-2020⁣ ⚽ 🌟#Guardiola #globesoccer pic.twitter.com/RXyYsPuOAw — Globe Soccer Awards (@Globe_Soccer) December 27, 2020 × ALSO READ: From Pochettino to Allegri: Managers that could replace Tuchel in PSG Since arriving at Manchester City, Guardiola has won eight trophies, including two Premier League titles and three League Cups. The two league trophies made Man City the first team to record consecutive titles in ten years while recording two highest point totals until that point. Guardiola also guided Manchester City to their first-ever English domestic treble – which wasn’t achieved by any team until that point. 🏆 🇪🇸 PEP GUARDIOLA presented with the COACH OF THE CENTURY 2001-2020 Globe Soccer Award#Guardiola #globesoccer pic.twitter.com/3w4ubW6P8q — Globe Soccer Awards (@Globe_Soccer) December 27, 2020 × Now, he has been awarded the Coach of the Century award, beating off stiff competition from Sir Alex Ferguson, Zinedine Zidane and Jose Mourinho.

Pep Guardiola named Coach of the Century, beats stiff competition from Zidane, Alex Ferguson

Former Indian cricketer MS Dhoni on Friday became the winner of the ICC Spirit of Cricket Award of the Decade with Dhoni’s move of recalling England batsman Ian Bell in the Nottingham Test in 2011 between India and England winning the coveted award by a unanimous vote.&nbsp;

Dhoni was voted unanimously for his tremendous gesture of calling back Bell after the England batsman was adjudged run-out after some confusion. 
In the match between England and India in Nottingham in 2011, Bell was batting on 137 when he slashed a delivery towards the backward point fielder.

Praveen Kumar chased the ball but couldn’t stop it from hitting the boundary rope after a diving effort. Kumar didn’t know about the situation and threw the ball towards the wicket-keeper’s end where the fielder ran Bell out.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-named-icc-male-cricketer-of-the-decade-odi-player-of-the-decade-check-full-list-352886" hreflang="en">Virat Kohli named ICC Male Cricketer of the Decade, ODI Player of the Decade - Check full list</a>

The third umpire, too, gave Bell out. With Bell walking back to the pavilion, disappointedly, he was asked to stop by the umpires. The Indian team walked towards Bell and MS Dhoni took the appeal back and called back Bell to continue his innings.

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ICC Spirit of Cricket Award of the decade , MAHENDRA SINGH DHONI 👑❤ chosen for calling Ian Bell back by withdrawing India's appeal. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MSDhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MSDhoni</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Dhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Dhoni</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICCAwards?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICCAwards</a> <a href="https://t.co/rCQz7XDHQ8">pic.twitter.com/rCQz7XDHQ8</a>
— Bhavya (@BhavyaDhoni) <a href="https://twitter.com/BhavyaDhoni/status/1343494279432269824?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Back in the time, Dhoni’s gesture was largely lauded by the fans and pundits and after a gap of nine years, Dhoni’s tremendous gesture and sportsman spirit have been awarded with the ICC Spirit of Cricket Award of the Decade.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-announces-team-of-the-decade-virat-kohli-features-in-all-formats-352731" hreflang="en">ICC announces 'Team of the Decade', Virat Kohli features in all formats</a>

Meanwhile, current Indian captain Virat Kohli was named the ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Decade and Men’s ODI Player of the Decade. Australian batsman Steve Smith was awarded the ICC Men’s Test Player of the Decade while Afghanistan’s Rashid Khan was named ICC Men’s T20I Player of the Decade.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Former Indian cricketer MS Dhoni on Friday became the winner of the ICC Spirit of Cricket Award of the Decade with Dhoni’s move of recalling England batsman Ian Bell in the Nottingham Test in 2011 between India and England winning the coveted award by a unanimous vote.

Former Indian cricketer MS Dhoni on Friday became the winner of the ICC Spirit of Cricket Award of the Decade with Dhoni’s move of recalling England batsman Ian Bell in the Nottingham Test in 2011 between India and England winning the coveted award by a unanimous vote. Dhoni was voted unanimously for his tremendous gesture of calling back Bell after the England batsman was adjudged run-out after some confusion. In the match between England and India in Nottingham in 2011, Bell was batting on 137 when he slashed a delivery towards the backward point fielder. Praveen Kumar chased the ball but couldn’t stop it from hitting the boundary rope after a diving effort. Kumar didn’t know about the situation and threw the ball towards the wicket-keeper’s end where the fielder ran Bell out. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli named ICC Male Cricketer of the Decade, ODI Player of the Decade - Check full list The third umpire, too, gave Bell out. With Bell walking back to the pavilion, disappointedly, he was asked to stop by the umpires. The Indian team walked towards Bell and MS Dhoni took the appeal back and called back Bell to continue his innings. ICC Spirit of Cricket Award of the decade , MAHENDRA SINGH DHONI 👑❤ chosen for calling Ian Bell back by withdrawing India's appeal. #MSDhoni | #Dhoni | #ICCAwards pic.twitter.com/rCQz7XDHQ8 — Bhavya (@BhavyaDhoni) December 28, 2020 × × Back in the time, Dhoni’s gesture was largely lauded by the fans and pundits and after a gap of nine years, Dhoni’s tremendous gesture and sportsman spirit have been awarded with the ICC Spirit of Cricket Award of the Decade. ALSO READ: ICC announces 'Team of the Decade', Virat Kohli features in all formats Meanwhile, current Indian captain Virat Kohli was named the ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Decade and Men’s ODI Player of the Decade. Australian batsman Steve Smith was awarded the ICC Men’s Test Player of the Decade while Afghanistan’s Rashid Khan was named ICC Men’s T20I Player of the Decade.

ICC Spirit of the Decade Award: When MS Dhoni recalled Ian Bell during Nottingham Test in 2011- Watch

Virat Kohli, India’s captain in all formats of the game, has been named as International Cricket Council’s (ICC) Men’s ODI Player of the Decade as well as the Sir Garfield Sober's Male Cricketer of the Decade as the governing body announced the result of the ICC Decade Awards on Monday.&nbsp;Australian batsman Steve Smith was named ICC Men's Test Player of the Decade whereas Afghanistan's Rashid Khan has been named ICC Men's T20 Player of the Decade.<o:p></o:p>

Kohli’s stature in world cricket continues to grow with the swashbuckling right handed-batsman now being named as the ICC Male Player of the Decade.&nbsp;Kohli accumulated most runs in the last decade with a staggering 20, 396 runs under his belt. The Indian skipper also posted more centuries - 66 - in the last decade and also most half-centuries 94. Kohli also had the highest average (70+ innings) - 56.97 and also lifted the ICC World Cup 2011 under the leadership of MS Dhoni.

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"My only intention was to make winning contributions for the team and I just strive to do that in every game. Stats just become the byproduct of what you want to do on the field." 
 
📽️ Virat Kohli reacts to winning the ICC Men’s ODI Cricketer of the Decade award 🙌<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICCAwards?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICCAwards</a> <a href="https://t.co/MF7LDRhg3v">pic.twitter.com/MF7LDRhg3v</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1343476314699948033?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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🇮🇳 VIRAT KOHLI is the ICC Men’s ODI Cricketer of the Decade 👏👏 
 
🔝 Only player with 10,000-plus ODI runs in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICCAwards?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICCAwards</a> period 
💯 39 centuries, 48 fifties 
🅰️ 61.83 average 
✊ 112 catches 
 
A run machine 💥🙌 <a href="https://t.co/0l0cDy4TYz">pic.twitter.com/0l0cDy4TYz</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1343475630357282817?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Australian batsman Steve Smith was named ICC Men's Test Player of the Decade whereas Afghanistan's Rashid Khan has been named ICC Men's T20 Player of the Decade.&nbsp;Steve Smith, who was named Men's Test Player of the Decade, amassed 7040 runs in the last decade with a breathtaking average of 65.79. He scored 26 centuries and 28 fifties in this period, in what has been a rollercoaster of a ride for the Aussie maestro.

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🇦🇺 STEVE SMITH is the ICC Men’s Test Cricketer of the Decade 👏👏 
 
🏏 7040 Test runs in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICCAwards?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICCAwards</a> period 
🅰️ 65.79 average ➜ Highest in top 50 
💯 26 hundreds, 28 fifties 
 
Unique, relentless and unbelievably consistent 🙌 <a href="https://t.co/UlXvHaFbDz">pic.twitter.com/UlXvHaFbDz</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1343477245701214208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Rashid Khan, meanwhile, got awarded for his meteoric rise, as he bagged 89 wickets in this period and averaged just 12.62. The Afghan maestro scalped three four-wicket hauls and two five-fers in the shortest format of the game.&nbsp;

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🇦🇫 RASHID KHAN is the ICC Men’s T20I Cricketer of the Decade 👏👏 
 
☝️ Highest wicket-taker in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICCAwards?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICCAwards</a> period ➜ 89 
🅰️ 12.62 average 🤯 
💥 Three four-wicket hauls, two five-fors 
 
What a story ❤️ <a href="https://t.co/Y59Y6nCs98">pic.twitter.com/Y59Y6nCs98</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1343477139681771521?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

<o:p>MS Dhoni won&nbsp;the ICC Spirit of Cricket Award of the Decade. The former India captain was chosen by fans unanimously for his gesture of calling back England batsman Ian Bell after a bizarre run out in the Nottingham Test in 2011.&nbsp;</o:p>

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🇮🇳 MS DHONI wins the ICC Spirit of Cricket Award of the Decade 👏👏 
 
The former India captain was chosen by fans unanimously for his gesture of calling back England batsman Ian Bell after a bizarre run out in the Nottingham Test in 2011.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICCAwards?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICCAwards</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SpiritOfCricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SpiritOfCricket</a> <a href="https://t.co/3eCpyyBXwu">pic.twitter.com/3eCpyyBXwu</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1343479003668217856?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Whereas Australian women cricketer Ellyse Perry won the Women's T20I and ODI Cricketer of the Year along with winning Rachael Heyhoe Flint Award for ICC Female Cricketer of the Decade. Perry, in T20Is, scored 1155 runs at an average of 30.39 and picked up 89 wickets while winning the T20 World Cup in 2012, 2014, 2018 and 2020.

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The phenomenal Ellyse Perry wins the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Award for ICC Female Cricketer of the Decade 🙌 
 
🏏 4349 international runs during the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICCAwards?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICCAwards</a> period 
☝️ 213 wickets 
🤯 Four-time <a href="https://twitter.com/T20WorldCup?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@T20WorldCup</a> champion 
🏆 <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketworldcup?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CricketWorldCup</a> 2013 champion 
 
A clean sweep for Perry ⭐ <a href="https://t.co/yc9GjGBlFS">pic.twitter.com/yc9GjGBlFS</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1343480620643717122?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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In ODIs, Perry scored 2621 runs at an average of 68.97. She picked up 98 wickets and also lifted the ICC World Cup 2013.&nbsp;

<h2>The complete list of winners and nominees for the ICC Awards of the Decade:</h2>

Sir Garfield Sobers Award for ICC Male Cricketer of the Decade&nbsp;– The best overall performer in men’s international cricket (Tests, ODIs and T20Is) during the performance period –

<ul>
	<li>R Ashwin (India)</li>
	<li>Virat Kohli (India) – Winner</li>
	<li>Joe Root (England)</li>
	<li>Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka)</li>
	<li>Steve Smith (Australia)</li>
	<li>AB de Villiers (South Africa)</li>
	<li>Kane Williamson (New Zealand)</li>
</ul>

Rachael Heyhoe Flint Award for ICC Female Cricketer of the Decade&nbsp;–&nbsp;The best overall performer in women’s international cricket (Tests, ODIs and T20Is) during the performance period.

<ul>
	<li>Suzie Bates (New Zealand)</li>
	<li>Meg Lanning (Australia)</li>
	<li>Ellyse Perry (Australia) – Winner</li>
	<li>Mithali Raj (India)</li>
	<li>Sarah Taylor (England)</li>
	<li>Stafanie Taylor (West Indies)</li>
</ul>

ICC Men’s Test Cricketer of the Decade&nbsp;– The best overall performer in men’s Test cricket during the performance period

<ul>
	<li>James Anderson (England)</li>
	<li>Rangana Herath (Sri Lanka)</li>
	<li>Virat Kohli (India)</li>
	<li>Joe Root (England)</li>
	<li>Yasir Shah (Pakistan)</li>
	<li>Steve Smith (Australia) – Winner</li>
	<li>Kane Williamson (New Zealand)</li>
</ul>

ICC Men’s ODI Cricketer of the Decade&nbsp;– The best overall performer in men’s ODI cricket during the performance period

<ul>
	<li>MS Dhoni (India)</li>
	<li>Virat Kohli (India) – Winner</li>
	<li>Lasith Malinga (Sri Lanka)</li>
	<li>Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka)</li>
	<li>Rohit Sharma (India)</li>
	<li>Mitchell Starc (Australia)</li>
	<li>AB de Villiers (South Africa)</li>
</ul>

ICC Women’s ODI Cricketer of the Decade&nbsp;– The best overall performer in women’s ODI cricket during the performance period

<ul>
	<li>Suzie Bates (New Zealand)</li>
	<li>Jhulan Goswami (India)</li>
	<li>Meg Lanning (Australia)</li>
	<li>Ellyse Perry (Australia) – Winner</li>
	<li>Mithali Raj (India)</li>
	<li>Stafanie Taylor (West Indies)</li>
</ul>

ICC Men’s T20I Cricketer of the Decade&nbsp;– The best overall performer in men’s T20I cricket during the performance period

<ul>
	<li>Aaron Finch (Australia)</li>
	<li>Chris Gayle (West Indies)</li>
	<li>Rashid Khan (Afghanistan) – Winner</li>
	<li>Virat Kohli (India)</li>
	<li>Lasith Malinga (Sri Lanka)</li>
	<li>Rohit Sharma (India)</li>
	<li>Imran Tahir (South Africa)</li>
</ul>

ICC Women’s T20I Cricketer of the Decade&nbsp;– The best overall performer in women’s T20I cricket during the performance period

<ul>
	<li>Sophie Devine (New Zealand)</li>
	<li>Deandra Dottin (West Indies)</li>
	<li>Alyssa Healy (Australia)</li>
	<li>Meg Lanning (Australia)</li>
	<li>Ellyse Perry (Australia) – Winner</li>
	<li>Anya Shrubsole (England)</li>
</ul>

ICC Men’s Associate Cricketer of the Decade&nbsp;– The best overall performer in men’s Associate cricket during the performance period

<ul>
	<li>Richie Berrington (Scotland)</li>
	<li>Peter Borren (Netherlands)</li>
	<li>Kyle Coetzer (Scotland) – Winner</li>
	<li>Paras Khadka (Nepal)</li>
	<li>Calum MacLeod (Scotland)</li>
	<li>Assad Vala (PNG)</li>
</ul>

ICC Women’s Associate Cricketer of the Decade&nbsp;– The best overall performer in women’s Associate cricket during the performance period

<ul>
	<li>Kathryn Bryce (Scotland) – Winner</li>
	<li>Sarah Bryce (Scotland)</li>
	<li>Natthakan Chantham (Thailand)</li>
	<li>Sterre Kalis (Netherlands)</li>
	<li>Chanida Sutthiruang (Thailand)</li>
	<li>Sornnorin Tippoch (Thailand)&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

ICC Spirit of Cricket Award of the Decade&nbsp;– An action, moment, gesture, or decision on the field of play in international cricket during the performance period which best reflects the Spirit of Cricket.

<ul>
	<li>2011 Winner – MS Dhoni (India) – Winner</li>
	<li>2012 Winner – Daniel Vettori (New Zealand)</li>
	<li>2013 Winner – Mahela Jayawardene (Sri Lanka)</li>
	<li>2014 Winner – Katherine Brunt (England)</li>
	<li>2015 Winner – Brendon McCullum (New Zealand)</li>
	<li>2016 Winner – Misbah-ul-Haq (Pakistan)</li>
	<li>2017 Winner – Anya Shrubsole (England)</li>
	<li>2018 Winner – Kane Williamson (New Zealand)</li>
	<li>2019 Winner – Virat Kohli (India)</li>
</ul>

<o:p></o:p>

Virat Kohli, India’s captain in all formats of the game, has been named as International Cricket Council’s (ICC) Men’s ODI Player of the Decade as well as the Sir Garfield Sober's Male Cricketer of the Decade as the governing body announced the result of the ICC Decade Awards on Monday.

Virat Kohli, India’s captain in all formats of the game, has been named as International Cricket Council’s (ICC) Men’s ODI Player of the Decade as well as the Sir Garfield Sober's Male Cricketer of the Decade as the governing body announced the result of the ICC Decade Awards on Monday. Australian batsman Steve Smith was named ICC Men's Test Player of the Decade whereas Afghanistan's Rashid Khan has been named ICC Men's T20 Player of the Decade. Kohli’s stature in world cricket continues to grow with the swashbuckling right handed-batsman now being named as the ICC Male Player of the Decade. Kohli accumulated most runs in the last decade with a staggering 20, 396 runs under his belt. The Indian skipper also posted more centuries - 66 - in the last decade and also most half-centuries 94. Kohli also had the highest average (70+ innings) - 56.97 and also lifted the ICC World Cup 2011 under the leadership of MS Dhoni. "My only intention was to make winning contributions for the team and I just strive to do that in every game. Stats just become the byproduct of what you want to do on the field." 📽️ Virat Kohli reacts to winning the ICC Men’s ODI Cricketer of the Decade award 🙌#ICCAwards pic.twitter.com/MF7LDRhg3v — ICC (@ICC) December 28, 2020 × 🇮🇳 VIRAT KOHLI is the ICC Men’s ODI Cricketer of the Decade 👏👏 🔝 Only player with 10,000-plus ODI runs in the #ICCAwards period 💯 39 centuries, 48 fifties 🅰️ 61.83 average ✊ 112 catches A run machine 💥🙌 pic.twitter.com/0l0cDy4TYz — ICC (@ICC) December 28, 2020 × Australian batsman Steve Smith was named ICC Men's Test Player of the Decade whereas Afghanistan's Rashid Khan has been named ICC Men's T20 Player of the Decade. Steve Smith, who was named Men's Test Player of the Decade, amassed 7040 runs in the last decade with a breathtaking average of 65.79. He scored 26 centuries and 28 fifties in this period, in what has been a rollercoaster of a ride for the Aussie maestro. 🇦🇺 STEVE SMITH is the ICC Men’s Test Cricketer of the Decade 👏👏 🏏 7040 Test runs in the #ICCAwards period 🅰️ 65.79 average ➜ Highest in top 50 💯 26 hundreds, 28 fifties Unique, relentless and unbelievably consistent 🙌 pic.twitter.com/UlXvHaFbDz — ICC (@ICC) December 28, 2020 × Rashid Khan, meanwhile, got awarded for his meteoric rise, as he bagged 89 wickets in this period and averaged just 12.62. The Afghan maestro scalped three four-wicket hauls and two five-fers in the shortest format of the game. 🇦🇫 RASHID KHAN is the ICC Men’s T20I Cricketer of the Decade 👏👏 ☝️ Highest wicket-taker in the #ICCAwards period ➜ 89 🅰️ 12.62 average 🤯 💥 Three four-wicket hauls, two five-fors What a story ❤️ pic.twitter.com/Y59Y6nCs98 — ICC (@ICC) December 28, 2020 × MS Dhoni won the ICC Spirit of Cricket Award of the Decade. The former India captain was chosen by fans unanimously for his gesture of calling back England batsman Ian Bell after a bizarre run out in the Nottingham Test in 2011. 🇮🇳 MS DHONI wins the ICC Spirit of Cricket Award of the Decade 👏👏 The former India captain was chosen by fans unanimously for his gesture of calling back England batsman Ian Bell after a bizarre run out in the Nottingham Test in 2011.#ICCAwards | #SpiritOfCricket pic.twitter.com/3eCpyyBXwu — ICC (@ICC) December 28, 2020 × Whereas Australian women cricketer Ellyse Perry won the Women's T20I and ODI Cricketer of the Year along with winning Rachael Heyhoe Flint Award for ICC Female Cricketer of the Decade. Perry, in T20Is, scored 1155 runs at an average of 30.39 and picked up 89 wickets while winning the T20 World Cup in 2012, 2014, 2018 and 2020. The phenomenal Ellyse Perry wins the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Award for ICC Female Cricketer of the Decade 🙌 🏏 4349 international runs during the #ICCAwards period ☝️ 213 wickets 🤯 Four-time @T20WorldCup champion 🏆 @CricketWorldCup 2013 champion A clean sweep for Perry ⭐ pic.twitter.com/yc9GjGBlFS — ICC (@ICC) December 28, 2020 × In ODIs, Perry scored 2621 runs at an average of 68.97. She picked up 98 wickets and also lifted the ICC World Cup 2013. The complete list of winners and nominees for the ICC Awards of the Decade: Sir Garfield Sobers Award for ICC Male Cricketer of the Decade – The best overall performer in men’s international cricket (Tests, ODIs and T20Is) during the performance period – R Ashwin (India) Virat Kohli (India) – Winner Joe Root (England) Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka) Steve Smith (Australia) AB de Villiers (South Africa) Kane Williamson (New Zealand) Rachael Heyhoe Flint Award for ICC Female Cricketer of the Decade – The best overall performer in women’s international cricket (Tests, ODIs and T20Is) during the performance period. Suzie Bates (New Zealand) Meg Lanning (Australia) Ellyse Perry (Australia) – Winner Mithali Raj (India) Sarah Taylor (England) Stafanie Taylor (West Indies) ICC Men’s Test Cricketer of the Decade – The best overall performer in men’s Test cricket during the performance period James Anderson (England) Rangana Herath (Sri Lanka) Virat Kohli (India) Joe Root (England) Yasir Shah (Pakistan) Steve Smith (Australia) – Winner Kane Williamson (New Zealand) ICC Men’s ODI Cricketer of the Decade – The best overall performer in men’s ODI cricket during the performance period MS Dhoni (India) Virat Kohli (India) – Winner Lasith Malinga (Sri Lanka) Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka) Rohit Sharma (India) Mitchell Starc (Australia) AB de Villiers (South Africa) ICC Women’s ODI Cricketer of the Decade – The best overall performer in women’s ODI cricket during the performance period Suzie Bates (New Zealand) Jhulan Goswami (India) Meg Lanning (Australia) Ellyse Perry (Australia) – Winner Mithali Raj (India) Stafanie Taylor (West Indies) ICC Men’s T20I Cricketer of the Decade – The best overall performer in men’s T20I cricket during the performance period Aaron Finch (Australia) Chris Gayle (West Indies) Rashid Khan (Afghanistan) – Winner Virat Kohli (India) Lasith Malinga (Sri Lanka) Rohit Sharma (India) Imran Tahir (South Africa) ICC Women’s T20I Cricketer of the Decade – The best overall performer in women’s T20I cricket during the performance period Sophie Devine (New Zealand) Deandra Dottin (West Indies) Alyssa Healy (Australia) Meg Lanning (Australia) Ellyse Perry (Australia) – Winner Anya Shrubsole (England) ICC Men’s Associate Cricketer of the Decade – The best overall performer in men’s Associate cricket during the performance period Richie Berrington (Scotland) Peter Borren (Netherlands) Kyle Coetzer (Scotland) – Winner Paras Khadka (Nepal) Calum MacLeod (Scotland) Assad Vala (PNG) ICC Women’s Associate Cricketer of the Decade – The best overall performer in women’s Associate cricket during the performance period Kathryn Bryce (Scotland) – Winner Sarah Bryce (Scotland) Natthakan Chantham (Thailand) Sterre Kalis (Netherlands) Chanida Sutthiruang (Thailand) Sornnorin Tippoch (Thailand) ICC Spirit of Cricket Award of the Decade – An action, moment, gesture, or decision on the field of play in international cricket during the performance period which best reflects the Spirit of Cricket. 2011 Winner – MS Dhoni (India) – Winner 2012 Winner – Daniel Vettori (New Zealand) 2013 Winner – Mahela Jayawardene (Sri Lanka) 2014 Winner – Katherine Brunt (England) 2015 Winner – Brendon McCullum (New Zealand) 2016 Winner – Misbah-ul-Haq (Pakistan) 2017 Winner – Anya Shrubsole (England) 2018 Winner – Kane Williamson (New Zealand) 2019 Winner – Virat Kohli (India)

Virat Kohli named ICC Male Cricketer of the Decade, ODI Player of the Decade - Check full list

Australian captain Tim Paine was involved in a controversial Decision Review System (DRS) decision during the Day 3 of the ongoing Boxing Day Test between India and Australia at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne. Paine was given out by the third umpire despite the Hot-Spot showing no edges as a Ravindra Jadeja delivery spun past Paine’s bat into the gloves of wicket-keeper Rishabh Pant.

Jadeja, along with Indian fielders desperately appealed to the umpire but Paine was given not-out. Indian skipper Ajinkya Rahane immediately took the DRS as everyone thought the ball had clipped the edge of Paine’s willow.&nbsp;

The third umpire first checked the Hot-Spot which showed no edge on Paine’s bat but the Snick-o-Meter showed a slight spike as the ball went past Paine’s bat. Despite the confusion, the third umpire decided to give Paine out.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-named-icc-male-cricketer-of-the-decade-odi-player-of-the-decade-check-full-list-352886" hreflang="en">Virat Kohli named ICC Male Cricketer of the Decade, ODI Player of the Decade - Check full list</a>

Paine walked back to the pavilion in disbelief as the third umpire found a 'dull' spike on the snickometer was enough to overturn the on-field call and give the Australia captain out while commentators pondered if it was made by the batter's front foot-dragging on the pitch.

<h2>WATCH: Tim Pain caught out by fresh DRS controversy</h2>

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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealand-fans-brutally-troll-pakistan-with-a-viral-placard-during-boxing-day-test-352867" hreflang="en">New Zealand fans brutally troll Pakistan with a viral placard during Boxing Day Test</a>

Australia ended Day 3 on 133/6, with a lead of 2 runs, as Cameron Green (17) and Pat Cummins (15) remained unbeaten for the hosts after Indian bowlers dominated the proceedings.&nbsp;

The likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Umesh Yadav, Mohammed Siraj and Ravichandran Ashwin picked a wicket each while Ravindra Jadeja ended up with two scalps.&nbsp;

India would be looking to wrap up the Australian innings quickly when they take the field on Day 4 of the Boxing Day Test and equalise the series after going down 1-0 in the Adelaide Test.

 
&nbsp;

Australian captain Tim Paine was involved in a controversial Decision Review System (DRS) decision during the Day 3 of the ongoing Boxing Day Test between India and Australia at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne.

Australian captain Tim Paine was involved in a controversial Decision Review System (DRS) decision during the Day 3 of the ongoing Boxing Day Test between India and Australia at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne. Paine was given out by the third umpire despite the Hot-Spot showing no edges as a Ravindra Jadeja delivery spun past Paine’s bat into the gloves of wicket-keeper Rishabh Pant. Jadeja, along with Indian fielders desperately appealed to the umpire but Paine was given not-out. Indian skipper Ajinkya Rahane immediately took the DRS as everyone thought the ball had clipped the edge of Paine’s willow. The third umpire first checked the Hot-Spot which showed no edge on Paine’s bat but the Snick-o-Meter showed a slight spike as the ball went past Paine’s bat. Despite the confusion, the third umpire decided to give Paine out. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli named ICC Male Cricketer of the Decade, ODI Player of the Decade - Check full list Paine walked back to the pavilion in disbelief as the third umpire found a 'dull' spike on the snickometer was enough to overturn the on-field call and give the Australia captain out while commentators pondered if it was made by the batter's front foot-dragging on the pitch. WATCH: Tim Pain caught out by fresh DRS controversy × ALSO READ: New Zealand fans brutally troll Pakistan with a viral placard during Boxing Day Test Australia ended Day 3 on 133/6, with a lead of 2 runs, as Cameron Green (17) and Pat Cummins (15) remained unbeaten for the hosts after Indian bowlers dominated the proceedings. The likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Umesh Yadav, Mohammed Siraj and Ravichandran Ashwin picked a wicket each while Ravindra Jadeja ended up with two scalps. India would be looking to wrap up the Australian innings quickly when they take the field on Day 4 of the Boxing Day Test and equalise the series after going down 1-0 in the Adelaide Test.

WATCH: Out or not-out? Tim Paine caught out by fresh DRS controversy

Australia on Monday were put on backfoot by the resilience of Indian cricket team as the hosts, at the end of Day 3 of the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne, could manage just 133/6 with a lead of just two runs. The Indian bowlers were all over the Australian batting unit and didn’t allow any of the Aussie batters to settle on the pitch as the Ajinkya Rahane’s men inch closer to equalise the series.&nbsp;

Australia were hunted down collectively by the Indian bowling unit as the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Umesh Yadav, Mohammed Siraj and Ravichandran Ashwin picked up a wicket each with Ravindra Jadeja scalping two to dismantle the Aussies.&nbsp;

While Matthew Wade showed grit to score 40 off 137, he was trapped plumb by Jadeja. Apart from Wade, none of the Aussie batters could score big with the hosts staring at a massive defeat in the Boxing Day Test.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealand-fans-brutally-troll-pakistan-with-a-viral-placard-during-boxing-day-test-352867" hreflang="en">New Zealand fans brutally troll Pakistan with a viral placard during Boxing Day Test</a>

However, India’s brilliant day on the field was marred by an injury to Umesh Yadav with the pacer taken to a nearby hospital after picking up a calf injury.

"Umesh Yadav complained of pain in his calf while bowling his 4th over and was assessed by the BCCI medical team. He is being taken for scans now," BCCI media team released a statement.

Earlier in the first innings, India posted 326 runs on the board after a terrific century by Rahane and half-century by Ravindra Jadeja after Australia were bundled out for 195 runs.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/top-knock-from-jinks-virat-kohli-lauds-ajinkya-rahanes-unbeaten-century-at-mcg-352760" hreflang="en">'Top knock from Jinks': Virat Kohli lauds Ajinkya Rahane's unbeaten century at MCG</a>

Rahane, whose captaincy has been praised heavily by the pundits and former cricketers, said that leading a side is all about backing your instincts and going with gut feeling.

“Captaincy is all about backing your instinct. You’ve got to back your gut feeling. Credit to the bowlers, they bowled in the right areas. (On his knock) It was really special. Getting a century always is. Still feel that my hundred against England at Lord’s is my best. This game is not over yet, still have to get four more wickets. (On the run out) I initially thought I was in. I told him (Jadeja) not to worry about my run out and to do keep doing well,” said Rahane after the end of Day 3 in Melbourne. 
&nbsp;

Australia on Monday were put on backfoot by the resilience of Indian cricket team as the hosts, at the end of Day 3 of the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne, could manage just 133/6 with a lead of just two runs.

Australia on Monday were put on backfoot by the resilience of Indian cricket team as the hosts, at the end of Day 3 of the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne, could manage just 133/6 with a lead of just two runs. The Indian bowlers were all over the Australian batting unit and didn’t allow any of the Aussie batters to settle on the pitch as the Ajinkya Rahane’s men inch closer to equalise the series. Australia were hunted down collectively by the Indian bowling unit as the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Umesh Yadav, Mohammed Siraj and Ravichandran Ashwin picked up a wicket each with Ravindra Jadeja scalping two to dismantle the Aussies. While Matthew Wade showed grit to score 40 off 137, he was trapped plumb by Jadeja. Apart from Wade, none of the Aussie batters could score big with the hosts staring at a massive defeat in the Boxing Day Test. ALSO READ: New Zealand fans brutally troll Pakistan with a viral placard during Boxing Day Test However, India’s brilliant day on the field was marred by an injury to Umesh Yadav with the pacer taken to a nearby hospital after picking up a calf injury. "Umesh Yadav complained of pain in his calf while bowling his 4th over and was assessed by the BCCI medical team. He is being taken for scans now," BCCI media team released a statement. Earlier in the first innings, India posted 326 runs on the board after a terrific century by Rahane and half-century by Ravindra Jadeja after Australia were bundled out for 195 runs. ALSO READ: 'Top knock from Jinks': Virat Kohli lauds Ajinkya Rahane's unbeaten century at MCG Rahane, whose captaincy has been praised heavily by the pundits and former cricketers, said that leading a side is all about backing your instincts and going with gut feeling. “Captaincy is all about backing your instinct. You’ve got to back your gut feeling. Credit to the bowlers, they bowled in the right areas. (On his knock) It was really special. Getting a century always is. Still feel that my hundred against England at Lord’s is my best. This game is not over yet, still have to get four more wickets. (On the run out) I initially thought I was in. I told him (Jadeja) not to worry about my run out and to do keep doing well,” said Rahane after the end of Day 3 in Melbourne.

Boxing Day Test: Indian bowlers dominate Australia on Day 3, eye series-levelling win

KC Jones, a 12-time NBA champion as a player and coach and 1956 Olympic gold medalist, has died, his former club the Boston Celtics announced Friday. He was 88.

Jones, who was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1989, captured 10 titles as a player, two more as a coach and two others as an assistant coach.

"The Celtics family mourns the loss of twelve-time NBA champion, two-time NCAA champion, Gold medal-winning Olympian and Hall of Famer K.C. Jones as we celebrate his remarkable career and life," the Celtics said in a statement.

Jones played college basketball at the University of San Francisco, winning 1955 and 1956 national crowns and a 1956 Melbourne Olympics title alongside future Celtics teammate Bill Russell.

Russell tweeted that he was told Jones died Friday morning.

"The way that he was revered by the players he played with, by the people he worked with, by the players that played for him, he was special," said current Celtics coach Brad Stevens.

With the Celtics, Jones won eight consecutive titles from 1959 to 1966. The club retired his jersey number, 25, in 1967.

Only Celtics teammates Russell and Sam Jones won more career NBA titles as players.

"Where K.C. Jones went, winning was sure to follow," the Celtics said.

Jones joined Russell, Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, Quinn Buckner, Jerry Lucas and Clyde Lovellette as the only players to complete the "Triple Crown" of NBA and NCAA titles plus Olympic gold.

Jones served as an assistant coach for the 1972 NBA champions Los Angeles Lakers and served as head coach for the Washington Bullets for three seasons, but he joined the Celtics coaching staff in 1978 and was an assistant when they won the 1981 NBA crown.

In 1983, Jones was named Celtics head coach and guided the team to NBA championships in 1984 and 1986. Boston also reached the NBA finals under Jones in 1985 and 1987.

"K.C. also demonstrated that one could be both a fierce competitor and a gentleman in every sense of the word," the Celtics said in their statement.

"He made his teammates better and he got the most out of the players he coached. Never one to seek credit, his glory was found in the most fundamental of basketball ideals -- being part of a winning team."

KC Jones, a 12-time NBA champion as a player and coach and 1956 Olympic gold medalist, has died, his former club the Boston Celtics announced Friday. He was 88. Jones, who was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1989, captured 10 titles as a player, two more as a coach and two others as an assistant coach.

KC Jones, a 12-time NBA champion as a player and coach and 1956 Olympic gold medalist, has died, his former club the Boston Celtics announced Friday. He was 88. Jones, who was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1989, captured 10 titles as a player, two more as a coach and two others as an assistant coach. "The Celtics family mourns the loss of twelve-time NBA champion, two-time NCAA champion, Gold medal-winning Olympian and Hall of Famer K.C. Jones as we celebrate his remarkable career and life," the Celtics said in a statement. Jones played college basketball at the University of San Francisco, winning 1955 and 1956 national crowns and a 1956 Melbourne Olympics title alongside future Celtics teammate Bill Russell. Russell tweeted that he was told Jones died Friday morning. "The way that he was revered by the players he played with, by the people he worked with, by the players that played for him, he was special," said current Celtics coach Brad Stevens. With the Celtics, Jones won eight consecutive titles from 1959 to 1966. The club retired his jersey number, 25, in 1967. Only Celtics teammates Russell and Sam Jones won more career NBA titles as players. "Where K.C. Jones went, winning was sure to follow," the Celtics said. Jones joined Russell, Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, Quinn Buckner, Jerry Lucas and Clyde Lovellette as the only players to complete the "Triple Crown" of NBA and NCAA titles plus Olympic gold. Jones served as an assistant coach for the 1972 NBA champions Los Angeles Lakers and served as head coach for the Washington Bullets for three seasons, but he joined the Celtics coaching staff in 1978 and was an assistant when they won the 1981 NBA crown. In 1983, Jones was named Celtics head coach and guided the team to NBA championships in 1984 and 1986. Boston also reached the NBA finals under Jones in 1985 and 1987. "K.C. also demonstrated that one could be both a fierce competitor and a gentleman in every sense of the word," the Celtics said in their statement. "He made his teammates better and he got the most out of the players he coached. Never one to seek credit, his glory was found in the most fundamental of basketball ideals -- being part of a winning team."

Celtics confirm death of 12-time NBA champion KC Jones

Jose Mourinho said Tottenham's lack of attacking intent was not inspired by him after dropping more points from a winning position in a 1-1 draw at Wolves on Sunday.

Spurs have now failed to win in four consecutive league games to heavily dent their hopes of a first league title in 60 years.

Mourinho's men edge up to fifth, but remain six points adrift of leaders Liverpool.

Tottenham have dropped eight points by conceding equalisers in the final 10 minutes this season after also blowing leads against Newcastle, West Ham and Crystal Palace. They also conceded a 90th-minute goal to lose at Liverpool.

The visitors made a dream start at Molineux as Tanguy Ndombele opened the scoring in the first minute.

But it was a familiar story for Mourinho as, just as against Palace a fortnight ago, they sat on a precarious 1-0 lead for most of the match and were punished.

"We didn't have that ambition, that desire to go for more," said Mourinho.

"One point against Wolves normally wouldn't be a bad result because they are a strong opponent, but scoring a goal in the first minute and having 89 minutes to score more goals, you feel frustrated.

"Defending deep, that's not the intention. They know what I asked them at half-time, if they couldn't do better it's because they couldn't do better."

Romain Saiss's late leveller was no less than Wolves deserved as they dominated after a nightmare start.

"We conceded in the first minute and that requires a lot of character," said Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo. "We played a good game after that."

The normally reliable Rui Patricio was at fault for the opener as Ndombele's shot from the edge of the box deceived the Portuguese international goalkeeper.

Wolves have struggled for goals since losing Raul Jimenez to a fractured skull last month.

The Mexican was at Molineux for the first time since his injury, but his presence was missed on the field as the hosts dominated possession without a cutting edge.

Fabio Silva flashed a shot into the side-netting and Daniel Podence fired too close to Hugo Lloris from the edge of box before the break.

Espirito Santo's men have made a habit of scoring the bulk of their goals in the second-half and looked like the only side capable of scoring after the break.

Silva's claims for a soft penalty were waved away as Tottenham largely restricted the hosts to potshots from range.

Ruben Neves curled narrowly over before Wolves' danger man Pedro Neto saw another effort from the edge of the area deflected just wide.

Neto was the provider when Wolves did score the goal their second-half performance deserved. Saiss beat his marker to a corner at the near post and flicked the ball into the far corner.

Wolves should even have gone on to win the game when 18-year-old Silva wasted a golden chance for his first Premier League goal from open play with a header straight at Lloris deep into stoppage time.

Jose Mourinho said Tottenham's lack of attacking intent was not inspired by him after dropping more points from a winning position in a 1-1 draw at Wolves on Sunday.

Jose Mourinho said Tottenham's lack of attacking intent was not inspired by him after dropping more points from a winning position in a 1-1 draw at Wolves on Sunday. Spurs have now failed to win in four consecutive league games to heavily dent their hopes of a first league title in 60 years. Mourinho's men edge up to fifth, but remain six points adrift of leaders Liverpool. Tottenham have dropped eight points by conceding equalisers in the final 10 minutes this season after also blowing leads against Newcastle, West Ham and Crystal Palace. They also conceded a 90th-minute goal to lose at Liverpool. The visitors made a dream start at Molineux as Tanguy Ndombele opened the scoring in the first minute. But it was a familiar story for Mourinho as, just as against Palace a fortnight ago, they sat on a precarious 1-0 lead for most of the match and were punished. "We didn't have that ambition, that desire to go for more," said Mourinho. "One point against Wolves normally wouldn't be a bad result because they are a strong opponent, but scoring a goal in the first minute and having 89 minutes to score more goals, you feel frustrated. "Defending deep, that's not the intention. They know what I asked them at half-time, if they couldn't do better it's because they couldn't do better." Romain Saiss's late leveller was no less than Wolves deserved as they dominated after a nightmare start. "We conceded in the first minute and that requires a lot of character," said Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo. "We played a good game after that." The normally reliable Rui Patricio was at fault for the opener as Ndombele's shot from the edge of the box deceived the Portuguese international goalkeeper. Wolves have struggled for goals since losing Raul Jimenez to a fractured skull last month. The Mexican was at Molineux for the first time since his injury, but his presence was missed on the field as the hosts dominated possession without a cutting edge. Fabio Silva flashed a shot into the side-netting and Daniel Podence fired too close to Hugo Lloris from the edge of box before the break. Espirito Santo's men have made a habit of scoring the bulk of their goals in the second-half and looked like the only side capable of scoring after the break. Silva's claims for a soft penalty were waved away as Tottenham largely restricted the hosts to potshots from range. Ruben Neves curled narrowly over before Wolves' danger man Pedro Neto saw another effort from the edge of the area deflected just wide. Neto was the provider when Wolves did score the goal their second-half performance deserved. Saiss beat his marker to a corner at the near post and flicked the ball into the far corner. Wolves should even have gone on to win the game when 18-year-old Silva wasted a golden chance for his first Premier League goal from open play with a header straight at Lloris deep into stoppage time.

Mourinho bemoans Spurs' lack of ambition in Wolves draw

Not even a broken toe could stop New Zealand's pace attack dominating day three of the first Test against Pakistan Monday, but their efforts quickly to wrap up the innings were stalled by a late century stand from Mohammad Rizwan and Faheem Ashraf at Mount Maunganui on Monday.&nbsp;

On a day disrupted by intermittent showers and an unseasonal hail storm, the Black Caps pace foursome took five for 50 in the first two sessions before Pakistan rallied to be all out for 239 at stumps, 192 in arrears.

Rizwan and Ashraf provided a face-saving partnership for Pakistan with 107 for the seventh wicket before the former was run out for 71 by a smart underarm throw from Mitchell Santner at square leg.

Ashraf soldiered on to a career-best 91 before he was the last wicket to fall.

When Pakistan resumed the day at 30 for one, Abid Ali and nightwatchman Mohammad Abbas were more intent on batting long rather than run gathering -- especially with a question mark over the workload for the injured Neil Wagner.&nbsp;

The pair put on just nine runs in 74 balls while Wagner, who suffered a fractured toe while batting on Sunday and was told by a doctor he could bowl only if he could "tolerate the pain", was kept out of the attack.&nbsp;

The partnership was broken by Kyle Jamieson who hurt Abid Ali with the last ball of his first over which smacked into the batsman's fingers.&nbsp;

Two balls into Jamieson's next over Abid kept his hands out of the way from a ball wide of off stump, only to see it jag back and he was bowled for 25.&nbsp;

In the following over Trent Boult, who had troubled Abbas with a succession of short balls, found an edge with a full delivery and Ross Taylor held the catch at first slip.&nbsp;

Azhar Ali and Haris Sohail stayed together for 50 deliveries but contributed only nine runs before both went in one Tim Southee over.&nbsp;

Azhar was caught by wicketkeeper BJ Watling and although the umpire missed the nick and turned down the appeal, New Zealand successfully reviewed the decision.&nbsp;

Sohail's exit was more straight forward with an attempted cut going straight to Henry Nicholls at gully.&nbsp;

Wagner tested his foot with three overs before lunch and continued with a seven-over spell after the break during which he took the only wicket to fall in the middle session with a trade-mark bouncer to Fawad Alam that was edged to wicketkeeper BJ Watling.&nbsp;

The nine-run knock continued a run of low scores for Alam who has adopted an unusual side-on stance that suggests he is expecting the ball to come from square leg -- even more exaggerated than that of West Indies' great Shivnarine Chanderpaul.&nbsp;

Jamieson had the remarkable figures of two for nine off 17 overs at tea but as the Rizwan-Ashraf partnership took its toll he ended the day with three for 35 off 23.1 overs.

Southee, Boult and Wagner took two wickets each.

Not even a broken toe could stop New Zealand's pace attack dominating day three of the first Test against Pakistan Monday, but their efforts quickly to wrap up the innings were stalled by a late century stand from Mohammad Rizwan and Faheem Ashraf at Mount Maunganui on Monday.

Not even a broken toe could stop New Zealand's pace attack dominating day three of the first Test against Pakistan Monday, but their efforts quickly to wrap up the innings were stalled by a late century stand from Mohammad Rizwan and Faheem Ashraf at Mount Maunganui on Monday. On a day disrupted by intermittent showers and an unseasonal hail storm, the Black Caps pace foursome took five for 50 in the first two sessions before Pakistan rallied to be all out for 239 at stumps, 192 in arrears. Rizwan and Ashraf provided a face-saving partnership for Pakistan with 107 for the seventh wicket before the former was run out for 71 by a smart underarm throw from Mitchell Santner at square leg. Ashraf soldiered on to a career-best 91 before he was the last wicket to fall. When Pakistan resumed the day at 30 for one, Abid Ali and nightwatchman Mohammad Abbas were more intent on batting long rather than run gathering -- especially with a question mark over the workload for the injured Neil Wagner. The pair put on just nine runs in 74 balls while Wagner, who suffered a fractured toe while batting on Sunday and was told by a doctor he could bowl only if he could "tolerate the pain", was kept out of the attack. The partnership was broken by Kyle Jamieson who hurt Abid Ali with the last ball of his first over which smacked into the batsman's fingers. Two balls into Jamieson's next over Abid kept his hands out of the way from a ball wide of off stump, only to see it jag back and he was bowled for 25. In the following over Trent Boult, who had troubled Abbas with a succession of short balls, found an edge with a full delivery and Ross Taylor held the catch at first slip. Azhar Ali and Haris Sohail stayed together for 50 deliveries but contributed only nine runs before both went in one Tim Southee over. Azhar was caught by wicketkeeper BJ Watling and although the umpire missed the nick and turned down the appeal, New Zealand successfully reviewed the decision. Sohail's exit was more straight forward with an attempted cut going straight to Henry Nicholls at gully. Wagner tested his foot with three overs before lunch and continued with a seven-over spell after the break during which he took the only wicket to fall in the middle session with a trade-mark bouncer to Fawad Alam that was edged to wicketkeeper BJ Watling. The nine-run knock continued a run of low scores for Alam who has adopted an unusual side-on stance that suggests he is expecting the ball to come from square leg -- even more exaggerated than that of West Indies' great Shivnarine Chanderpaul. Jamieson had the remarkable figures of two for nine off 17 overs at tea but as the Rizwan-Ashraf partnership took its toll he ended the day with three for 35 off 23.1 overs. Southee, Boult and Wagner took two wickets each.

Pakistan out for 239 after Ashraf frustrates New Zealand attack

New Zealand’s late push for a place in next year’s International Cricket Council’s World Test Championship final will come to a head against an injury-hit Pakistan when their two-test series begins on Saturday in Mount Maunganui.

Kane Williamson’s side are third behind Australia and India and need to win both the first game at Bay Oval and then the second from Jan. 3-7 at Hagley Oval in Christchurch to give themselves any chance of making the final at Lord’s.

Williamson, however, was well aware they would also need other results go their way, which may account for him attempting to downplay the underlying significance of the series.

“I think the context of that (the test championship) is great for the game in general,” he told reporters this week. “But our focus ... is to basically start again.

“It’s about coming back to the basics and playing what is in front of us rather than getting too carried away with potential things.”

New Zealand’s chances of sweeping the series have been boosted by the return of top batsman Williamson, who missed the innings and 12-run victory over West Indies in Wellington as he awaited the birth of his first child.

Tim Southee also has added motivation for the first match, with the pace bowling spearhead just four wickets away from joining Richard Hadlee and Daniel Vettori as the third New Zealand bowler to achieve 300 test wickets.

Pakistan, however, will be without injured captain Babar Azam, opener Imam-Ul-Haq and all-rounder Shadab Khan and stand-in captain Mohammad Rizwan said while they would miss the trio he expected others to take their opportunities.

“We trust them,” he said. “And hope they will play well.”

Rizwan was also not concerned with the heavily grassed wicket block, which could prove advantageous for the home side’s strong pace bowling quartet.

“It doesn’t matter for the pitch if there is a bit of grass,” he said.

“If it’s difficult for us, it’s difficult for New Zealand.”

New Zealand’s late push for a place in next year’s International Cricket Council’s World Test Championship final will come to a head against an injury-hit Pakistan when their two-test series begins on Saturday in Mount Maunganui.

New Zealand’s late push for a place in next year’s International Cricket Council’s World Test Championship final will come to a head against an injury-hit Pakistan when their two-test series begins on Saturday in Mount Maunganui. Kane Williamson’s side are third behind Australia and India and need to win both the first game at Bay Oval and then the second from Jan. 3-7 at Hagley Oval in Christchurch to give themselves any chance of making the final at Lord’s. Williamson, however, was well aware they would also need other results go their way, which may account for him attempting to downplay the underlying significance of the series. “I think the context of that (the test championship) is great for the game in general,” he told reporters this week. “But our focus ... is to basically start again. “It’s about coming back to the basics and playing what is in front of us rather than getting too carried away with potential things.” New Zealand’s chances of sweeping the series have been boosted by the return of top batsman Williamson, who missed the innings and 12-run victory over West Indies in Wellington as he awaited the birth of his first child. Tim Southee also has added motivation for the first match, with the pace bowling spearhead just four wickets away from joining Richard Hadlee and Daniel Vettori as the third New Zealand bowler to achieve 300 test wickets. Pakistan, however, will be without injured captain Babar Azam, opener Imam-Ul-Haq and all-rounder Shadab Khan and stand-in captain Mohammad Rizwan said while they would miss the trio he expected others to take their opportunities. “We trust them,” he said. “And hope they will play well.” Rizwan was also not concerned with the heavily grassed wicket block, which could prove advantageous for the home side’s strong pace bowling quartet. “It doesn’t matter for the pitch if there is a bit of grass,” he said. “If it’s difficult for us, it’s difficult for New Zealand.”

New Zealand's last chance to push for test final in Pakistan series

Liverpool coach Jurgen Klopp moved to dismiss speculation over Egypt forward Mohamed Salah's future saying on Thursday he is happy at the Premier League champions.

The 28-year-old gave an interview in Spain last week in which he said Barcelona and Real Madrid were top clubs and "who knows what will happen in the future".

This led to speculation over whether he was seeking a new longer-term contract beyond 2023 or he was upset Trent Alexander-Arnold had been given the captain's armband for the Champions League group match with Midtjylland.

"We do not speak about deals -- well, not with you (the media). Why should we start now?" said Klopp at his press conference ahead of Sunday's game with struggling West Brom.

"Mo is in a good mood, always a good moment. He is in really good shape and that is the most important thing for me.

"We did not have pictures (from the training ground) this morning but if we did you would have seen him laughing, he enjoyed the session.

"All the rest is nice for all of you to write about but internally, no, nothing really."

If Salah is unsettled it has not been reflected by his performances on the pitch this season.

He has scored 13 goals in as many league games, missing just one because of Covid-19 isolation.

It is his best start to a Premier League term, even better than his debut campaign when he went on to score 32 in 38 appearances having registered 12 goals at the same 14-match stage.

He came off the bench last Saturday to score a brace in the 7-0 thrashing of Crystal Palace.

"I think there are all these things to talk about: he didn't start the last game, all the things I heard after about what could be the reason and then he came on and scored two," said Klopp.

"I think in his first season he didn't start against Stoke, came on and scored two. He obviously doesn't need a long time."

Klopp said he hoped his players would build on their lead over their rivals -- they presently have a four point advantage over Leicester.

The Reds have a hectic schedule over the festive period with a home game with Newcastle next Wednesday and Southampton the following Monday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"All the boys were in a good moment, that is why we have the points we have so far," he said.

"Now it is much more important we really keep going. Everyone knows the toughest point of the season is now ahead of us.

"The Christmas period is always tough so we have to make sure we get through this with the right results."

Liverpool coach Jurgen Klopp moved to dismiss speculation over Egypt forward Mohamed Salah's future saying on Thursday he is happy at the Premier League champions.

Liverpool coach Jurgen Klopp moved to dismiss speculation over Egypt forward Mohamed Salah's future saying on Thursday he is happy at the Premier League champions. The 28-year-old gave an interview in Spain last week in which he said Barcelona and Real Madrid were top clubs and "who knows what will happen in the future". This led to speculation over whether he was seeking a new longer-term contract beyond 2023 or he was upset Trent Alexander-Arnold had been given the captain's armband for the Champions League group match with Midtjylland. "We do not speak about deals -- well, not with you (the media). Why should we start now?" said Klopp at his press conference ahead of Sunday's game with struggling West Brom. "Mo is in a good mood, always a good moment. He is in really good shape and that is the most important thing for me. "We did not have pictures (from the training ground) this morning but if we did you would have seen him laughing, he enjoyed the session. "All the rest is nice for all of you to write about but internally, no, nothing really." If Salah is unsettled it has not been reflected by his performances on the pitch this season. He has scored 13 goals in as many league games, missing just one because of Covid-19 isolation. It is his best start to a Premier League term, even better than his debut campaign when he went on to score 32 in 38 appearances having registered 12 goals at the same 14-match stage. He came off the bench last Saturday to score a brace in the 7-0 thrashing of Crystal Palace. "I think there are all these things to talk about: he didn't start the last game, all the things I heard after about what could be the reason and then he came on and scored two," said Klopp. "I think in his first season he didn't start against Stoke, came on and scored two. He obviously doesn't need a long time." Klopp said he hoped his players would build on their lead over their rivals -- they presently have a four point advantage over Leicester. The Reds have a hectic schedule over the festive period with a home game with Newcastle next Wednesday and Southampton the following Monday. "All the boys were in a good moment, that is why we have the points we have so far," he said. "Now it is much more important we really keep going. Everyone knows the toughest point of the season is now ahead of us. "The Christmas period is always tough so we have to make sure we get through this with the right results."

Salah is happy at Liverpool, says Klopp

Slaven Bilic's sacking by West Brom last week made him the earliest managerial departure in a Premier League season for six years after it took 18 games for Cardiff City to dismiss Neil Warnock in 2014.

The next sacking may not be long in coming with several bosses having serious question marks over their futures.

AFP Sport looks at three bosses who could do with some Christmas cheer:

<h2>Arteta to banish the Blues</h2>

Mikel Arteta's FA Cup success last season and then victory over Liverpool in the Community Shield suggested the turbulent period for Arsenal under his predecessor Unai Emery had been laid to rest.

However, heading into a tough home clash with highflying London rivals Chelsea on Saturday the bright new dawn has clouded over and the former Gunners captain's future after just over a year in charge is in doubt.

The 38-year-old Spaniard has overseen their worst start since the 1974/75 season -- they have scored just 12 goals to boot -- and lie just four points above the relegation zone.

It says a lot about the gloom surrounding the club the board have inserted clauses in the players contracts of a cut in pay should they be relegated for the first time since 1912/13 when they were known as Woolwich Arsenal.

Areta will hope the board keep the faith and listened to the sterling defence his former boss at Manchester City Pep Guardiola mounted after the Gunners lost 4-1 to them in the League Cup on Tuesday.&nbsp;

"It's just a question of time and he will do well. Football changes in one week so quick," said Guardiola.

<h2>Bruce to get Magpies flying</h2>

Steve Bruce knows all about the ups and downs of football management especially after Newcastle's disappointing League Cup quarter-final exit at the hands of second-tier Brentford.

The Magpies look reasonably comfortable in 12th place in the table.

However, with a trip to Manchester City on Saturday and then welcoming champions Liverpool a few days later the eight points separating them from the relegation zone could be whittled away such is the volatility of this campaign.

Bruce, 59, is believed to enjoy the support of Magpies owner Mike Ashley but there are growing rumblings of discontent from the fans who aside from seeing a chance of a trophy disappear are far from happy with the unimaginative style of play.

Bruce has not been helped by losing two influential players captain Jamaal Lascelles and French star Allan Saint-Maximin who are both suffering the after-effects of Covid-19.

Bruce said after the Brentford defeat he had not lost the dressingroom, though, it was hardly the most convincing of responses.

"Are the players playing for me? I think they are," he said.

"Maybe they're not playing well enough, but it's not without effort and determination."

<h2>Final cut for Blades' Wilder</h2>

Bilic might well scratching his head at being the first manager sacked when he compares notes with Sheffield United's Chris Wilder.

The Blades' board have shown admirable gratitude and restraint in retaining faith with the 53-year-old Englishman despite garnering just two points this season -- the worst start in Premier League history.

Wilder is living off the currency he gained through guiding Sheffield United to the Premier League and then ninth spot last term.

Wilder has a tough test at home to Everton on Saturday but the board's patience may snap if he fails to secure points at Burnley on Tuesday.

A 3-2 loss to Manchester United and then a draw with struggling Brighton has given hope to Wilder.

"If we don't show that right attitude, we're toast -- we understand that, so it won't happen," he said.

"At least there's a little bit of light at the end of the tunnel after the last two games."

Fixtures (kick-offs GMT)

Saturday

Leicester v Man Utd (1230), Arsenal v Chelsea (1730), Manchester City v Newcastle (2000), Aston Villa v Crystal Palace (1500), Fulham v Southampton (1500), Sheffield United v Everton (2000)

Sunday

Leeds v Burnley (1200), Liverpool v West Brom (1630), Wolves v Tottenham Hotspur (19150, West Ham v Brighton (1415)

Slaven Bilic's sacking by West Brom last week made him the earliest managerial departure in a Premier League season for six years after it took 18 games for Cardiff City to dismiss Neil Warnock in 2014.

Slaven Bilic's sacking by West Brom last week made him the earliest managerial departure in a Premier League season for six years after it took 18 games for Cardiff City to dismiss Neil Warnock in 2014. The next sacking may not be long in coming with several bosses having serious question marks over their futures. AFP Sport looks at three bosses who could do with some Christmas cheer: Arteta to banish the Blues Mikel Arteta's FA Cup success last season and then victory over Liverpool in the Community Shield suggested the turbulent period for Arsenal under his predecessor Unai Emery had been laid to rest. However, heading into a tough home clash with highflying London rivals Chelsea on Saturday the bright new dawn has clouded over and the former Gunners captain's future after just over a year in charge is in doubt. The 38-year-old Spaniard has overseen their worst start since the 1974/75 season -- they have scored just 12 goals to boot -- and lie just four points above the relegation zone. It says a lot about the gloom surrounding the club the board have inserted clauses in the players contracts of a cut in pay should they be relegated for the first time since 1912/13 when they were known as Woolwich Arsenal. Areta will hope the board keep the faith and listened to the sterling defence his former boss at Manchester City Pep Guardiola mounted after the Gunners lost 4-1 to them in the League Cup on Tuesday. "It's just a question of time and he will do well. Football changes in one week so quick," said Guardiola. Bruce to get Magpies flying Steve Bruce knows all about the ups and downs of football management especially after Newcastle's disappointing League Cup quarter-final exit at the hands of second-tier Brentford. The Magpies look reasonably comfortable in 12th place in the table. However, with a trip to Manchester City on Saturday and then welcoming champions Liverpool a few days later the eight points separating them from the relegation zone could be whittled away such is the volatility of this campaign. Bruce, 59, is believed to enjoy the support of Magpies owner Mike Ashley but there are growing rumblings of discontent from the fans who aside from seeing a chance of a trophy disappear are far from happy with the unimaginative style of play. Bruce has not been helped by losing two influential players captain Jamaal Lascelles and French star Allan Saint-Maximin who are both suffering the after-effects of Covid-19. Bruce said after the Brentford defeat he had not lost the dressingroom, though, it was hardly the most convincing of responses. "Are the players playing for me? I think they are," he said. "Maybe they're not playing well enough, but it's not without effort and determination." Final cut for Blades' Wilder Bilic might well scratching his head at being the first manager sacked when he compares notes with Sheffield United's Chris Wilder. The Blades' board have shown admirable gratitude and restraint in retaining faith with the 53-year-old Englishman despite garnering just two points this season -- the worst start in Premier League history. Wilder is living off the currency he gained through guiding Sheffield United to the Premier League and then ninth spot last term. Wilder has a tough test at home to Everton on Saturday but the board's patience may snap if he fails to secure points at Burnley on Tuesday. A 3-2 loss to Manchester United and then a draw with struggling Brighton has given hope to Wilder. "If we don't show that right attitude, we're toast -- we understand that, so it won't happen," he said. "At least there's a little bit of light at the end of the tunnel after the last two games." Fixtures (kick-offs GMT) Saturday Leicester v Man Utd (1230), Arsenal v Chelsea (1730), Manchester City v Newcastle (2000), Aston Villa v Crystal Palace (1500), Fulham v Southampton (1500), Sheffield United v Everton (2000) Sunday Leeds v Burnley (1200), Liverpool v West Brom (1630), Wolves v Tottenham Hotspur (19150, West Ham v Brighton (1415)

Under pressure Premier League managers hope for Christmas cheer

Skipper Tim Paine Friday called India a proud nation that won't roll over in the Boxing Day Test, and Australia must be "bang on the mark" to inflict more misery after their Adelaide collapse.

Australia head into the second Test in Melbourne full of confidence after thumping the visitors by eight wickets inside three days last week, skittling them for an embarrassing 36 in the second innings.

But Paine said it would be a mistake to underestimate India despite the tourists missing superstar captain Virat Kohli, who has returned home for the birth of his first child.

They will almost certainly also be without pace spearhead Mohammed Shami, who has reportedly fractured his wrist although this has yet to be confirmed by the team.

"We can't pay any attention to mental scares or whatever anyone is talking about," Paine said of India, who were savaged at home for their Adelaide capitulation.

"I mean, India is a proud cricket country, they are an extremely talented Test match side with lots of dangerous players."

India will need to make at least two changes with Kohli and Shami out, but are widely tipped to make more. In contrast, Australia are expected to name the same XI.

Paine said Australia had studied everyone in the Indian squad and they were ready for whoever took the field.

"We know that some of the players they're talking about coming in to their side ... are dangerous players who like to take the game on and will play positively," he said.

"If we give players like that an inch they will take a mile, so we need to be bang on the mark tomorrow as we were in Adelaide and be prepared to turn up for another five day battle."

<h2>- In the moment -</h2>

Ajinkya Rahane, who has assumed the captaincy, said he didn't plan to disturb Kohli as he prepares for his wife to give birth, but said they spoke at length before he left.

"Virat spoke to all of us before leaving Adelaide, about being positive, just playing to our strengths and just to play as a team, as a unit, which is what we have been doing for so many years," he said.

"The last Test match, we had, comparatively, two good days and just one bad one where we lost it completely.

"This week was all about backing ourselves as individuals and as a team, playing to our strengths," he added.&nbsp;

"What is important for all of us is to start well tomorrow ... staying in the moment will really help."

Both teams have been living in bio-secure bubbles to ensure the series goes ahead in the new coronavirus world and Paine admitted it was easier to do so when you were winning.

This was another incentive for his team to again put India to the sword at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, where up to 30,000 fans will be allowed each day -- around one-third capacity.

"We have been on overseas tours before when we have been bowled out for 50 and it can be really difficult, that's why it's so important for us to turn up tomorrow with the attitude that we turned up with in the first Test," he said.

"We know they're not going to roll over, we're going to have to work our backsides off to get them in a position like we did in Adelaide.

"If we can do it again, then Tests three and four can become a real battle for them."

Skipper Tim Paine Friday called India a proud nation that won't roll over in the Boxing Day Test, and Australia must be "bang on the mark" to inflict more misery after their Adelaide collapse.

Skipper Tim Paine Friday called India a proud nation that won't roll over in the Boxing Day Test, and Australia must be "bang on the mark" to inflict more misery after their Adelaide collapse. Australia head into the second Test in Melbourne full of confidence after thumping the visitors by eight wickets inside three days last week, skittling them for an embarrassing 36 in the second innings. But Paine said it would be a mistake to underestimate India despite the tourists missing superstar captain Virat Kohli, who has returned home for the birth of his first child. They will almost certainly also be without pace spearhead Mohammed Shami, who has reportedly fractured his wrist although this has yet to be confirmed by the team. "We can't pay any attention to mental scares or whatever anyone is talking about," Paine said of India, who were savaged at home for their Adelaide capitulation. "I mean, India is a proud cricket country, they are an extremely talented Test match side with lots of dangerous players." India will need to make at least two changes with Kohli and Shami out, but are widely tipped to make more. In contrast, Australia are expected to name the same XI. Paine said Australia had studied everyone in the Indian squad and they were ready for whoever took the field. "We know that some of the players they're talking about coming in to their side ... are dangerous players who like to take the game on and will play positively," he said. "If we give players like that an inch they will take a mile, so we need to be bang on the mark tomorrow as we were in Adelaide and be prepared to turn up for another five day battle." - In the moment - Ajinkya Rahane, who has assumed the captaincy, said he didn't plan to disturb Kohli as he prepares for his wife to give birth, but said they spoke at length before he left. "Virat spoke to all of us before leaving Adelaide, about being positive, just playing to our strengths and just to play as a team, as a unit, which is what we have been doing for so many years," he said. "The last Test match, we had, comparatively, two good days and just one bad one where we lost it completely. "This week was all about backing ourselves as individuals and as a team, playing to our strengths," he added. "What is important for all of us is to start well tomorrow ... staying in the moment will really help." Both teams have been living in bio-secure bubbles to ensure the series goes ahead in the new coronavirus world and Paine admitted it was easier to do so when you were winning. This was another incentive for his team to again put India to the sword at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, where up to 30,000 fans will be allowed each day -- around one-third capacity. "We have been on overseas tours before when we have been bowled out for 50 and it can be really difficult, that's why it's so important for us to turn up tomorrow with the attitude that we turned up with in the first Test," he said. "We know they're not going to roll over, we're going to have to work our backsides off to get them in a position like we did in Adelaide. "If we can do it again, then Tests three and four can become a real battle for them."

Paine wary of depleted India in Melbourne

Barcelona and Spain’s legendary defender Carles Puyol feels that Lionel Messi still has three to four years at the highest level if he doesn’t pick up a serious injury. Messi at Barcelona broke Pele’s record of scoring the most number of goals for a single club and cemented his legacy as one of the greatest of all-time even more. Messi scored his 644th goal for Barcelona while surpassing Pele’s 643 goals for Santos.

Puyol said that Messi, despite being 33 years old, is motivated and eager to keep going at the highest level.

"He is now 33 years old and takes care of himself. He is motivated and eager, and I think he has three or four years to go at this level if he is lucky enough to not have any major injuries and if he continues playing with the same desire to improve and keep winning, with that motivation. I think we still have Leo for a while," Goal.com quoted Puyol as saying.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/salah-is-happy-at-liverpool-says-klopp-352242" hreflang="en">Salah is happy at Liverpool, says Klopp</a>

Taking back on Messi’s career, where the Argentine has been at the peak for almost 15 years, Puyol said: "I am sure that talent is not enough. Talent is needed, of course, but also work and dedication, a desire to learn and be motivated to seek new challenges every day. We have seen it in Messi.

"He is not the same player today as he was when he started. He has been adding records and improving, he is a very complete player who can set the rhythm of the game, score free kicks, goals, give assists. He does practically everything!" he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-citys-gabriel-jesus-kyle-walker-test-positive-for-covid-19-to-miss-crucial-matches-352328" hreflang="en">Manchester City's Gabriel Jesus, Kyle Walker test positive for COVID-19, to miss crucial matches</a>

Puyol added that Messi has evolved over the years and became even more impressive while lauding him the “best of all time”.

"In the beginning, he was very good, but one of those players who you give the ball and he does his individual move. He made the difference and scored goals. He was already very good [at a young age], but over the years he has become an even more impressive player, the best of all time," he said.

Puyol was part of the Barcelona team when Messi made his senior debut in 2004 against Espanyol. As Messi kept on growing in stature, he brought laurels to Barcelona and made them one of the scariest sides in world football.

Barcelona and Spain’s legendary defender Carles Puyol feels that Lionel Messi still has three to four years at the highest level if he doesn’t pick up a serious injury.

Barcelona and Spain’s legendary defender Carles Puyol feels that Lionel Messi still has three to four years at the highest level if he doesn’t pick up a serious injury. Messi at Barcelona broke Pele’s record of scoring the most number of goals for a single club and cemented his legacy as one of the greatest of all-time even more. Messi scored his 644th goal for Barcelona while surpassing Pele’s 643 goals for Santos. Puyol said that Messi, despite being 33 years old, is motivated and eager to keep going at the highest level. "He is now 33 years old and takes care of himself. He is motivated and eager, and I think he has three or four years to go at this level if he is lucky enough to not have any major injuries and if he continues playing with the same desire to improve and keep winning, with that motivation. I think we still have Leo for a while," Goal.com quoted Puyol as saying. ALSO READ: Salah is happy at Liverpool, says Klopp Taking back on Messi’s career, where the Argentine has been at the peak for almost 15 years, Puyol said: "I am sure that talent is not enough. Talent is needed, of course, but also work and dedication, a desire to learn and be motivated to seek new challenges every day. We have seen it in Messi. "He is not the same player today as he was when he started. He has been adding records and improving, he is a very complete player who can set the rhythm of the game, score free kicks, goals, give assists. He does practically everything!" he added. ALSO READ: Manchester City's Gabriel Jesus, Kyle Walker test positive for COVID-19, to miss crucial matches Puyol added that Messi has evolved over the years and became even more impressive while lauding him the “best of all time”. "In the beginning, he was very good, but one of those players who you give the ball and he does his individual move. He made the difference and scored goals. He was already very good [at a young age], but over the years he has become an even more impressive player, the best of all time," he said. Puyol was part of the Barcelona team when Messi made his senior debut in 2004 against Espanyol. As Messi kept on growing in stature, he brought laurels to Barcelona and made them one of the scariest sides in world football.

Lionel Messi still has 3-4 years at highest level, reckons Carles Puyol

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