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

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

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

With India series looming, Smith relieved to find his hands

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Guardiola, Klopp welcome virus fan-return plan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

India are set to take on Australia in three ODIs, as many T20Is and four Test matches in what promises to be a blockbuster series. With the first ODI taking place in Sydney on Friday, the anticipation and hype around the series are unparalleled. Former Australian captain Michael Clarke feels Australia will defeat India 4-0 in the Test series if the Men in Blue fail in the white-ball series.

According to Clarke, Indian captain Virat Kohli has to set the momentum in the ODIs and T20Is or else India will fail to win even a single Test Down Under.&nbsp;

“These one-dayers and these Twenty20s is where Virat Kohli can really stand up and lead from the front. I think the tone he sets with this team will play a big role when he leaves, after the first Test match,” Clarke said on ‘Sky Sports Radio’ on Tuesday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-rohit-ishant-sharma-out-of-first-2-tests-vs-australia-345054" hreflang="en">India's Rohit, Ishant Sharma out of first 2 Tests vs Australia</a>

“If India don‘t have success in the one-dayers and the T20s, they are in deep trouble in the Test matches and they’ll get smoked 4-0, in my opinion,” he added.

Clarke further said that Indian pacers, especially Jasprit Bumrah, will need to be aggressive against the Australian batsmen while using the short deliveries consistently.&nbsp;

“He‘s quick, he’s got a really different action, so I think he needs to set the tone and be really aggressive to the Australian batters. Even to someone like Steve Smith, he’s got to use that short ball consistently and regularly, as Jofra Archer did to Steve Smith in the Ashes,” Clarke further said.

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“They’ve got to take the Aussies on and those two players are India’s best two players to be aggressive to the Australians,” he signed off.

With Rohit Sharma and Ishant Sharma likely to be out of the first two Tests and Virat Kohli leaving after the opening Test in Adelaide, it would be interesting to see how Team India faces the might of Australia on their home soil.

India are set to take on Australia in three ODIs, as many T20Is and four Test matches in what promises to be a blockbuster series. With the first ODI taking place in Sydney on Friday, the anticipation and hype around the series are unparalleled.

India are set to take on Australia in three ODIs, as many T20Is and four Test matches in what promises to be a blockbuster series. With the first ODI taking place in Sydney on Friday, the anticipation and hype around the series are unparalleled. Former Australian captain Michael Clarke feels Australia will defeat India 4-0 in the Test series if the Men in Blue fail in the white-ball series. According to Clarke, Indian captain Virat Kohli has to set the momentum in the ODIs and T20Is or else India will fail to win even a single Test Down Under. “These one-dayers and these Twenty20s is where Virat Kohli can really stand up and lead from the front. I think the tone he sets with this team will play a big role when he leaves, after the first Test match,” Clarke said on ‘Sky Sports Radio’ on Tuesday. ALSO READ: India's Rohit, Ishant Sharma out of first 2 Tests vs Australia “If India don‘t have success in the one-dayers and the T20s, they are in deep trouble in the Test matches and they’ll get smoked 4-0, in my opinion,” he added. Clarke further said that Indian pacers, especially Jasprit Bumrah, will need to be aggressive against the Australian batsmen while using the short deliveries consistently. “He‘s quick, he’s got a really different action, so I think he needs to set the tone and be really aggressive to the Australian batters. Even to someone like Steve Smith, he’s got to use that short ball consistently and regularly, as Jofra Archer did to Steve Smith in the Ashes,” Clarke further said. ALSO READ: With India series looming, Smith relieved to find his hands “They’ve got to take the Aussies on and those two players are India’s best two players to be aggressive to the Australians,” he signed off. With Rohit Sharma and Ishant Sharma likely to be out of the first two Tests and Virat Kohli leaving after the opening Test in Adelaide, it would be interesting to see how Team India faces the might of Australia on their home soil.

IND vs AUS: Australia will smoke India 4-0 in Tests, predicts Michael Clarke

Sanjana Ramesh, the young prodigy from NBA Academy Women’s Program, has set well-defined goals for the much-awaited 2020-21 National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I basketball season starting November 25th.

Representing the Northern Arizona University in the Big Sky conference, Sanjana is clear about where she sees herself this season. “I know I shouldn’t keep my expectations too high, but I do want to play at least 10 minutes each game. I want to be the leading shot-blocker in our conference and get at least six rebounds (each game), I have some very detailed goals for the season,” said the 19-year-old with confidence.

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With the pandemic threat still looming large, Sanjana is wary of a curtailed season and is preparing to deal with the circumstances. “If anyone in the team tests positive for Covid-19, then we will have a 14-day shutdown with no practice, no play, nothing. Though we are all hoping to play all the 25 games this season, we need to be prepared for such a scenario,” Sanjana said.

While she wishes the season goes unaffected, the pandemic brought about changes in her daily routine, much like anyone else.&nbsp;“I feel like my whole life has been turned upside down. Playing with masks on is the strangest thing I have had to do. We are getting tested thrice a week, and there is no chance of hanging out with friends or playing pick-up games,” explained Sanjana.

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However, she is happy to forgo the luxury of stepping out with friends to unwind and live in isolation if it gives her an entire season to play in. “I certainly don’t want to encounter a situation where I test positive. You don’t want to take that risk so it’s best to stay in isolation and have a very good chance of playing a lot this year,” Sanjana admitted.&nbsp;

In May 2018, Sanjana became the second Indian-born female player to receive a Division I basketball scholarship after committing to the Northern Arizona University. The Bengaluru-girl was thankful for the exposure she got through the NBA Academy Women’s Program camp.

“Playing in Bengaluru all my life, my first thoughts when I got selected was that it is a big opportunity.&nbsp;I wanted to understand who all are coming, what kind of players they are. It was like a recruitment project, a whole new world for me, a complete eye-opener,” said Sanjana, who won the MVP at the first-ever NBA Academy Women’s Program camp and the Basketball Without Borders Asia Camp in 2018 held at the NBA Academy India.

Sanjana was also supportive in her university’s efforts to create awareness of the ongoing social justice movement in the U.S. “We marched during the Election Day wearing Black Lives Matter T-shirts and were actively reaching out to the community through social media. I think we made a lot of efforts to get people heard,” said Sanjana.

The Northern Arizona University (NAU) will take on&nbsp;University of Nevada Las Vegas Athletics in their first game of the 2020-21 NCAA season on November 25th.

Sanjana Ramesh, the young prodigy from NBA Academy Women’s Program, has set well-defined goals for the much-awaited 2020-21 National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I basketball season starting November 25th.

Sanjana Ramesh, the young prodigy from NBA Academy Women’s Program, has set well-defined goals for the much-awaited 2020-21 National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I basketball season starting November 25th. Representing the Northern Arizona University in the Big Sky conference, Sanjana is clear about where she sees herself this season. “I know I shouldn’t keep my expectations too high, but I do want to play at least 10 minutes each game. I want to be the leading shot-blocker in our conference and get at least six rebounds (each game), I have some very detailed goals for the season,” said the 19-year-old with confidence. ALSO READ: 'Completely unacceptable': Arsenal, Leeds condemn online abuse of Pepe, Alioski With the pandemic threat still looming large, Sanjana is wary of a curtailed season and is preparing to deal with the circumstances. “If anyone in the team tests positive for Covid-19, then we will have a 14-day shutdown with no practice, no play, nothing. Though we are all hoping to play all the 25 games this season, we need to be prepared for such a scenario,” Sanjana said. While she wishes the season goes unaffected, the pandemic brought about changes in her daily routine, much like anyone else. “I feel like my whole life has been turned upside down. Playing with masks on is the strangest thing I have had to do. We are getting tested thrice a week, and there is no chance of hanging out with friends or playing pick-up games,” explained Sanjana. ALSO READ: SA vs Eng: Team decision to not take the knee, says Rabada However, she is happy to forgo the luxury of stepping out with friends to unwind and live in isolation if it gives her an entire season to play in. “I certainly don’t want to encounter a situation where I test positive. You don’t want to take that risk so it’s best to stay in isolation and have a very good chance of playing a lot this year,” Sanjana admitted. In May 2018, Sanjana became the second Indian-born female player to receive a Division I basketball scholarship after committing to the Northern Arizona University. The Bengaluru-girl was thankful for the exposure she got through the NBA Academy Women’s Program camp. “Playing in Bengaluru all my life, my first thoughts when I got selected was that it is a big opportunity. I wanted to understand who all are coming, what kind of players they are. It was like a recruitment project, a whole new world for me, a complete eye-opener,” said Sanjana, who won the MVP at the first-ever NBA Academy Women’s Program camp and the Basketball Without Borders Asia Camp in 2018 held at the NBA Academy India. Sanjana was also supportive in her university’s efforts to create awareness of the ongoing social justice movement in the U.S. “We marched during the Election Day wearing Black Lives Matter T-shirts and were actively reaching out to the community through social media. I think we made a lot of efforts to get people heard,” said Sanjana. The Northern Arizona University (NAU) will take on University of Nevada Las Vegas Athletics in their first game of the 2020-21 NCAA season on November 25th.

Sanjana Ramesh has set ‘detailed goals’ for the upcoming NCAA season

Rohit Sharma and Ishant Sharma have been ruled out of the first two Test matches of the Border-Gavaskar trophy in Australia. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will have to make quick calls if they want Rohit and Ishant to be available for the last two Tests of the series, which will start on December 16 in Adelaide.

According to ESPNCricinfo, Ishant has regained bowling fitness but still needs another four weeks of workload to be up for the Tests and will have to board immediately to be in contention for the third Test.

The strict quarantine phase of 14 days in Australia allows them to train only after four weeks and then another four weeks of preparatory training can only make Ishant ready for the third Test, which will be played on January 7 in Sydney.&nbsp;

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"If there is a T20 game and he needs to just bowl four overs, Ishant is good to go immediately, but for him to get back to Test-match fitness, he needs four weeks of proper bowling still," a BCCI source said.

Whereas, Rohit Sharma can be cleared to travel by the NCA on December 8 – at the earliest. Another 14 days in quarantine will keep him out of training until December 22.

Rohit had suffered a hamstring tear during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 and will take another two weeks of rehabilitation to be “70 or 80% readiness”, as per a BCCI functionary. The official feels Rohit might have been ready for the Tests had he flown directly to Australia from the UAE.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-vs-ind-indias-mohammed-siraj-opens-up-on-the-loss-of-his-father-says-want-to-do-is-fulfil-his-dream-344927" hreflang="en">India's Mohammed Siraj opens up on the loss of his father, says 'want to fulfil his dream'</a>

If Rohit is out then Shreyas Iyer is likely to be included in the Test squad as reserve batsman.&nbsp;

India have the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Umesh Yadav, Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj in the Test squad, as far as fast bowling is concerned, along with the Kartik Tyagi, Kamlesh Nagarkoti and Ishan Porel in the reserve bench.

Rohit Sharma and Ishant Sharma have been ruled out of the first two Test matches of the Border-Gavaskar trophy in Australia. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will have to make quick calls if they want Rohit and Ishant to be available for the last two Tests of the series, which will start on December 16 in Adelaide.

Rohit Sharma and Ishant Sharma have been ruled out of the first two Test matches of the Border-Gavaskar trophy in Australia. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will have to make quick calls if they want Rohit and Ishant to be available for the last two Tests of the series, which will start on December 16 in Adelaide. According to ESPNCricinfo, Ishant has regained bowling fitness but still needs another four weeks of workload to be up for the Tests and will have to board immediately to be in contention for the third Test. The strict quarantine phase of 14 days in Australia allows them to train only after four weeks and then another four weeks of preparatory training can only make Ishant ready for the third Test, which will be played on January 7 in Sydney. ALSO READ: With India series looming, Smith relieved to find his hands "If there is a T20 game and he needs to just bowl four overs, Ishant is good to go immediately, but for him to get back to Test-match fitness, he needs four weeks of proper bowling still," a BCCI source said. Whereas, Rohit Sharma can be cleared to travel by the NCA on December 8 – at the earliest. Another 14 days in quarantine will keep him out of training until December 22. Rohit had suffered a hamstring tear during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 and will take another two weeks of rehabilitation to be “70 or 80% readiness”, as per a BCCI functionary. The official feels Rohit might have been ready for the Tests had he flown directly to Australia from the UAE. ALSO READ: India's Mohammed Siraj opens up on the loss of his father, says 'want to fulfil his dream' If Rohit is out then Shreyas Iyer is likely to be included in the Test squad as reserve batsman. India have the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Umesh Yadav, Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj in the Test squad, as far as fast bowling is concerned, along with the Kartik Tyagi, Kamlesh Nagarkoti and Ishan Porel in the reserve bench.

India's Rohit, Ishant Sharma out of first 2 Tests vs Australia

The truncated 2020 tennis season came to an end on Sunday when Daniil Medvedev defeated Dominic Thiem in the championship match of the ATP Finals in London.

AFP Sport looks at five things to remember from the coronavirus-impacted year:

<h2>Djokovic's rollercoaster</h2>

-- Novak Djokovic started the year with an eighth Australian Open and 17th Grand Slam title and finished it by equalling Pete Sampras's record as a year-end world number one for a sixth time.

In between, however, the darker side of the 33-year-old emerged.

While the sport went into coronavirus lockdown, the Serb launched his ill-fated Adria Tour in June.

With no social distancing and with players pictured dancing shirtless at a packed nightclub, Djokovic became one of a number of players to test positive for coronavirus.

Grigor Dimitrov, Borna Coric and Viktor Troicki also became ill and the project was abandoned.

"You can't be dancing on tables, money-grabbing your way around Europe or trying to make a quick buck hosting the next exhibition. That's just so selfish," said Australian firebrand Nick Kyrgios.

Djokovic then saw his hopes of an 18th Slam end with a disqualification from the US Open after inadvertently hitting a line judge with a ball.

His hopes of becoming the first man in half a century to win all four Slams twice ended in a straight sets defeat to Rafael Nadal in the French Open final.

<h2>Nadal's 13th Roland Garros</h2>

-- Rafael Nadal had skipped the US Open, where he was defending champion, due to fears over the escalating health crisis in New York.

The decision paid off as he swept to a 13th Roland Garros and 20th career Grand Slam title in Paris in October.

The French Open had been pushed back four months due to the pandemic and Nadal had entered the tournament fearing the heavier balls and autumn conditions would conspire against him.

He need not have worried as he reached the 100-win mark at the tournament without dropping a set, making light of the 1,000 fans a day limit.

The absent Roger Federer, also a 20-time major winner, hailed it as "one of sport's greatest achievements".

<h2>Game, set, match to coronavirus</h2>

--&nbsp;The global pandemic closed down tennis from March until August.

Wimbledon was cancelled for the first time since World War II while Roland Garros was moved from its traditional May/June slot to September/October.

The Davis Cup and Fed Cup finals were binned as were the ATP and WTA end-of-season Asian swings.

Most events were played behind closed doors. Players racquet-tapped instead of shaking hands and were told to fetch their own towels.

<h2>Kenin and Swiatek give Slams new look</h2>

-- Serena Williams' quest for a record-equalling 24th Slam goes on after another season of frustration at the Slams.

The 39-year-old lost in the third round in Australia, semi-finals of the US Open and pulled out injured after the first round of the French Open.

With number one Ashleigh Barty not playing at all after the resumption, something of a power vacuum emerged.

Sofia Kenin had already claimed a maiden Slam at the Australian Open while Naomi Osaka claimed a second US Open and third career major in New York.

Kenin's hopes of a second Slam in 2020 were undone by charismatic Iga Swiatek of Poland who won a shock French Open.

The 19-year-old, at 54, was the lowest-ranked woman to capture the Roland Garros title in the modern era and was Poland's first ever major champion.

<h2>Freeze -- you're number one</h2>

-- The chaos caused to tennis by the pandemic saw the governing bodies freeze world rankings from March, allowing points to extend beyond the traditional 52-week window.

Barty remained world number one despite playing just three events -- winning the Adelaide tournament followed by semi-final runs at the Australian Open and Qatar Open.

Former US Open winner Bianca Andreescu didn't play a single match in 2020 after injuring her knee at the WTA Finals in Shenzhen in October last year.

The Canadian will still finish at seven in the rankings.

Roger Federer will end 2020 ranked at five following a season where he only played the Australian Open before undergoing knee surgery.

The truncated 2020 tennis season came to an end on Sunday when Daniil Medvedev defeated Dominic Thiem in the championship match of the ATP Finals in London. AFP Sport looks at five things to remember from the coronavirus-impacted year: Djokovic's rollercoaster -- Novak Djokovic started the year with an eighth Australian Open and 17th Grand Slam title and finished it by equalling Pete Sampras's record as a year-end world number one for a sixth time.

The truncated 2020 tennis season came to an end on Sunday when Daniil Medvedev defeated Dominic Thiem in the championship match of the ATP Finals in London. AFP Sport looks at five things to remember from the coronavirus-impacted year: Djokovic's rollercoaster -- Novak Djokovic started the year with an eighth Australian Open and 17th Grand Slam title and finished it by equalling Pete Sampras's record as a year-end world number one for a sixth time. In between, however, the darker side of the 33-year-old emerged. While the sport went into coronavirus lockdown, the Serb launched his ill-fated Adria Tour in June. With no social distancing and with players pictured dancing shirtless at a packed nightclub, Djokovic became one of a number of players to test positive for coronavirus. Grigor Dimitrov, Borna Coric and Viktor Troicki also became ill and the project was abandoned. "You can't be dancing on tables, money-grabbing your way around Europe or trying to make a quick buck hosting the next exhibition. That's just so selfish," said Australian firebrand Nick Kyrgios. Djokovic then saw his hopes of an 18th Slam end with a disqualification from the US Open after inadvertently hitting a line judge with a ball. His hopes of becoming the first man in half a century to win all four Slams twice ended in a straight sets defeat to Rafael Nadal in the French Open final. Nadal's 13th Roland Garros -- Rafael Nadal had skipped the US Open, where he was defending champion, due to fears over the escalating health crisis in New York. The decision paid off as he swept to a 13th Roland Garros and 20th career Grand Slam title in Paris in October. The French Open had been pushed back four months due to the pandemic and Nadal had entered the tournament fearing the heavier balls and autumn conditions would conspire against him. He need not have worried as he reached the 100-win mark at the tournament without dropping a set, making light of the 1,000 fans a day limit. The absent Roger Federer, also a 20-time major winner, hailed it as "one of sport's greatest achievements". Game, set, match to coronavirus -- The global pandemic closed down tennis from March until August. Wimbledon was cancelled for the first time since World War II while Roland Garros was moved from its traditional May/June slot to September/October. The Davis Cup and Fed Cup finals were binned as were the ATP and WTA end-of-season Asian swings. Most events were played behind closed doors. Players racquet-tapped instead of shaking hands and were told to fetch their own towels. Kenin and Swiatek give Slams new look -- Serena Williams' quest for a record-equalling 24th Slam goes on after another season of frustration at the Slams. The 39-year-old lost in the third round in Australia, semi-finals of the US Open and pulled out injured after the first round of the French Open. With number one Ashleigh Barty not playing at all after the resumption, something of a power vacuum emerged. Sofia Kenin had already claimed a maiden Slam at the Australian Open while Naomi Osaka claimed a second US Open and third career major in New York. Kenin's hopes of a second Slam in 2020 were undone by charismatic Iga Swiatek of Poland who won a shock French Open. The 19-year-old, at 54, was the lowest-ranked woman to capture the Roland Garros title in the modern era and was Poland's first ever major champion. Freeze -- you're number one -- The chaos caused to tennis by the pandemic saw the governing bodies freeze world rankings from March, allowing points to extend beyond the traditional 52-week window. Barty remained world number one despite playing just three events -- winning the Adelaide tournament followed by semi-final runs at the Australian Open and Qatar Open. Former US Open winner Bianca Andreescu didn't play a single match in 2020 after injuring her knee at the WTA Finals in Shenzhen in October last year. The Canadian will still finish at seven in the rankings. Roger Federer will end 2020 ranked at five following a season where he only played the Australian Open before undergoing knee surgery.

Five talking points from the 2020 tennis season

Daniil Medvedev came from behind to beat US Open champion Dominic Thiem in a gripping encounter and win the biggest title of his career at the ATP Finals in London on Sunday.

The Russian fourth seed was second best for large periods at the empty O2 Arena but found a way back into the contest and prevailed 4-6, 7-6 (7/2), 6-4.

Medvedev, who beat five-time champion Novak Djokovic and world number two Rafael Nadal earlier in the week, is the first man to beat all three of the world's top-ranked players at the season finale.

The giant Russian, 24, has now won 10 consecutive matches following his title earlier this month at the Paris Masters and his victory will taste sweet a year after a winless debut in London.

But it is a painful defeat for Thiem, who also lost in the final of the elite eight-man event last year, to Stefanos Tsitsipas.

"What a match," said Medvedev. "One of my best victories, two hours and 42 minutes, three sets against an amazing player.

"Dominic, congratulations already for what you achieved in your career. Your name is already in the history of tennis books.&nbsp;

"It is amazing. You won a Grand Slam this year. You are playing unbelievable. I hope we are going to have many more matches to come on the big occasions like this."

&nbsp;

<h2>- Thiem pressure -</h2>

&nbsp;

Thiem weathered early pressure from Medvedev and secured the first break of the match in the fifth game, when the Russian served a double fault.

He sealed the set in fortunate fashion when his forehand clipped the net and looped over Medvedev's racket.

Medvedev, who came from a set down against Nadal in Saturday's last-four contest, made a solid start to the second set.

But Thiem held to love in the fourth game, looking comfortable as the giant Russian sought a way back into the match.

The 27-year-old third seed had chances to earn a potentially decisive break but they slipped by and he yelled in frustration as he squandered his opportunities.

The Austrian took a tumble onto the blue court at the start of the eighth game and found himself break point down but toughed it out, with Medvedev looking stronger as the set wore on.

The second set went to a tie-break. Having recovered from 0-4 to win the deciding tie-break against Djokovic on Saturday, Thiem got a taste of his own medicine as Medvedev turned a 2-0 deficit into a 7-2 victory.

The Austrian appeared to be struggling to cope with the punishing pace in the third set and Medvedev did not give him the rhythm to get his big groundstrokes flowing.

He finally cracked in the fifth game, when the Russian produced a volley at the net to break.

Thiem remained under pressure and had to battle hard to avoid going down another break.

But all Medvedev now had to do was keep his nerve. He did so as he served out for victory.

"Of course, I am disappointed, but at the same time I am also proud of the performance of all the week," said Thiem. "Daniil really deserved it. It was an amazing match."

Medvedev is the first Russian to win the ATP Finals since 2009, when Nikolay Davydenko triumphed at the first edition of the season finale held in London. Next year, the tournament moves to Turin in Italy.

Daniil Medvedev came from behind to beat US Open champion Dominic Thiem in a gripping encounter and win the biggest title of his career at the ATP Finals in London on Sunday.

Daniil Medvedev came from behind to beat US Open champion Dominic Thiem in a gripping encounter and win the biggest title of his career at the ATP Finals in London on Sunday. The Russian fourth seed was second best for large periods at the empty O2 Arena but found a way back into the contest and prevailed 4-6, 7-6 (7/2), 6-4. Medvedev, who beat five-time champion Novak Djokovic and world number two Rafael Nadal earlier in the week, is the first man to beat all three of the world's top-ranked players at the season finale. The giant Russian, 24, has now won 10 consecutive matches following his title earlier this month at the Paris Masters and his victory will taste sweet a year after a winless debut in London. But it is a painful defeat for Thiem, who also lost in the final of the elite eight-man event last year, to Stefanos Tsitsipas. "What a match," said Medvedev. "One of my best victories, two hours and 42 minutes, three sets against an amazing player. "Dominic, congratulations already for what you achieved in your career. Your name is already in the history of tennis books. "It is amazing. You won a Grand Slam this year. You are playing unbelievable. I hope we are going to have many more matches to come on the big occasions like this." - Thiem pressure - Thiem weathered early pressure from Medvedev and secured the first break of the match in the fifth game, when the Russian served a double fault. He sealed the set in fortunate fashion when his forehand clipped the net and looped over Medvedev's racket. Medvedev, who came from a set down against Nadal in Saturday's last-four contest, made a solid start to the second set. But Thiem held to love in the fourth game, looking comfortable as the giant Russian sought a way back into the match. The 27-year-old third seed had chances to earn a potentially decisive break but they slipped by and he yelled in frustration as he squandered his opportunities. The Austrian took a tumble onto the blue court at the start of the eighth game and found himself break point down but toughed it out, with Medvedev looking stronger as the set wore on. The second set went to a tie-break. Having recovered from 0-4 to win the deciding tie-break against Djokovic on Saturday, Thiem got a taste of his own medicine as Medvedev turned a 2-0 deficit into a 7-2 victory. The Austrian appeared to be struggling to cope with the punishing pace in the third set and Medvedev did not give him the rhythm to get his big groundstrokes flowing. He finally cracked in the fifth game, when the Russian produced a volley at the net to break. Thiem remained under pressure and had to battle hard to avoid going down another break. But all Medvedev now had to do was keep his nerve. He did so as he served out for victory. "Of course, I am disappointed, but at the same time I am also proud of the performance of all the week," said Thiem. "Daniil really deserved it. It was an amazing match." Medvedev is the first Russian to win the ATP Finals since 2009, when Nikolay Davydenko triumphed at the first edition of the season finale held in London. Next year, the tournament moves to Turin in Italy.

Medvedev beats Thiem to win ATP Finals title

Liverpool shrugged off an injury crisis to move level on points with Tottenham at the top of the Premier League with a 3-0 win over Leicester, while 10-man Arsenal were left to cling on for a 0-0 draw at Leeds by Nicolas Pepe's red card on Sunday.

The champions were without the injured Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Jordan Henderson, Thiago Alcantara, Xherdan Shaqiri and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, while top scorer Mohamed Salah was absent due to a positive coronavirus test.

Yet, Jurgen Klopp's men were still imperious in easing past a Leicester side that had started the weekend on top of the table.

The Foxes did not do themselves any favours when Jonny Evans turned James Milner's corner into his own net to reward Liverpool's bright start.

Diogo Jota then became the first ever Liverpool player to score in his first four home league games with a downward header from Andy Robertson's cross.

Only a combination of goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel and the woodwork kept Liverpool from a repeat of the 4-0 thrashing they dished out to Leicester when the sides last met in December.

But Robert Firmino then rounded off a fine night for the champions with a towering header from another Milner corner six minutes from time.

"Playing them like that tonight, I do not take for granted," said Klopp. "The boys were on fire."

Liverpool have now set a new club record of 64 unbeaten league games at Anfield.

<h2>- Pepe lets Arsenal down -</h2>

Leicester's defeat means Arsenal are just five points off the top four, but Mikel Arteta was furious at Pepe's lack of discipline as the Gunners were lucky to escape with a point at Elland Road.

"It's unacceptable," said the Spaniard, whose side have won just one of their last five league games.&nbsp;

"With 10 men it is a big disadvantage. I really liked the personality of the team when Pepe let the team down, how we stuck to our jobs. Obviously it makes it really difficult."

Leeds are 14th after their third consecutive match without a win, but Marcelo Bielsa's men were left cursing their luck as Rodrigo, Patrick Bamford and Raphinha all hit the woodwork in the closing stages.

Arsenal captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang had been given a rare chance in the central striker's role, but he was starved of service even before Pepe's dismissal.

Aubameyang's penalty in a 1-0 win at Manchester United last month is the only league goal Arsenal have now scored for nearly 500 minutes.

<h2>- Everton bounce back -</h2>

Everton recovered from three straight defeats to beat Fulham 3-2 thanks to a double from Dominic Calvert-Lewin.

The England international moved to the top of the Premier League goalscoring charts with Abdoulaye Doucoure also on target for Carlo Ancelotti's men before half-time.

Bobby Decordova-Reid had equalised at 1-1 for Fulham, but their woes from the penalty spot continued as a third different player this season missed from the spot when Ivan Cavaleiro scooped his effort over the bar.

Ruben Loftus-Cheek reduced the deficit 20 minutes from time, but Everton held on to win for the first time in five league games to move up to sixth.

"The most important part of the game was to be back to winning," Ancelotti said.

"We lost energy in the second half, the players were tired. I changed to put more fresh legs on the pitch but we had to defend. In the end it went well."

Fulham remain one place above the relegation zone after their third defeat in four games.

Bottom of the table Sheffield United's wait for their first win this season goes on after they were beaten 1-0 by West Ham at Bramall Lane.

Sebastien Haller scored the winner in the 56th minute with a fierce shot that flashed into the roof of the net to move the Hammers up to eighth.

Liverpool shrugged off an injury crisis to move level on points with Tottenham at the top of the Premier League with a 3-0 win over Leicester, while 10-man Arsenal were left to cling on for a 0-0 draw at Leeds by Nicolas Pepe's red card on Sunday.

Liverpool shrugged off an injury crisis to move level on points with Tottenham at the top of the Premier League with a 3-0 win over Leicester, while 10-man Arsenal were left to cling on for a 0-0 draw at Leeds by Nicolas Pepe's red card on Sunday. The champions were without the injured Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Jordan Henderson, Thiago Alcantara, Xherdan Shaqiri and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, while top scorer Mohamed Salah was absent due to a positive coronavirus test. Yet, Jurgen Klopp's men were still imperious in easing past a Leicester side that had started the weekend on top of the table. The Foxes did not do themselves any favours when Jonny Evans turned James Milner's corner into his own net to reward Liverpool's bright start. Diogo Jota then became the first ever Liverpool player to score in his first four home league games with a downward header from Andy Robertson's cross. Only a combination of goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel and the woodwork kept Liverpool from a repeat of the 4-0 thrashing they dished out to Leicester when the sides last met in December. But Robert Firmino then rounded off a fine night for the champions with a towering header from another Milner corner six minutes from time. "Playing them like that tonight, I do not take for granted," said Klopp. "The boys were on fire." Liverpool have now set a new club record of 64 unbeaten league games at Anfield. - Pepe lets Arsenal down - Leicester's defeat means Arsenal are just five points off the top four, but Mikel Arteta was furious at Pepe's lack of discipline as the Gunners were lucky to escape with a point at Elland Road. "It's unacceptable," said the Spaniard, whose side have won just one of their last five league games. "With 10 men it is a big disadvantage. I really liked the personality of the team when Pepe let the team down, how we stuck to our jobs. Obviously it makes it really difficult." Leeds are 14th after their third consecutive match without a win, but Marcelo Bielsa's men were left cursing their luck as Rodrigo, Patrick Bamford and Raphinha all hit the woodwork in the closing stages. Arsenal captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang had been given a rare chance in the central striker's role, but he was starved of service even before Pepe's dismissal. Aubameyang's penalty in a 1-0 win at Manchester United last month is the only league goal Arsenal have now scored for nearly 500 minutes. - Everton bounce back - Everton recovered from three straight defeats to beat Fulham 3-2 thanks to a double from Dominic Calvert-Lewin. The England international moved to the top of the Premier League goalscoring charts with Abdoulaye Doucoure also on target for Carlo Ancelotti's men before half-time. Bobby Decordova-Reid had equalised at 1-1 for Fulham, but their woes from the penalty spot continued as a third different player this season missed from the spot when Ivan Cavaleiro scooped his effort over the bar. Ruben Loftus-Cheek reduced the deficit 20 minutes from time, but Everton held on to win for the first time in five league games to move up to sixth. "The most important part of the game was to be back to winning," Ancelotti said. "We lost energy in the second half, the players were tired. I changed to put more fresh legs on the pitch but we had to defend. In the end it went well." Fulham remain one place above the relegation zone after their third defeat in four games. Bottom of the table Sheffield United's wait for their first win this season goes on after they were beaten 1-0 by West Ham at Bramall Lane. Sebastien Haller scored the winner in the 56th minute with a fierce shot that flashed into the roof of the net to move the Hammers up to eighth.

Injury-hit Liverpool keep setting records, 10-man Arsenal hold Leeds

Lionel Messi was almost unrecognisable and so were Barcelona as a rare defeat by Atletico Madrid on Saturday cast further doubt over the direction of the Ronald Koeman project.&nbsp;

Atletico had not beaten Barca in the league since 2010, their 1-0 win at the Wanda Metropolitano a timely affirmation that they are contenders and arguably now favourites to win La Liga.&nbsp;

For Barca sitting 12th, albeit with a game or two in hand over some of those above them, the immediate blow of a third league defeat in eight games was compounded by a knee ligament injury to Gerard Pique, which leaves Koeman with only one fit central defender.&nbsp;

But perhaps more concerning is the sense that Koeman's Barcelona appear already to be stalling, devoid of either a clear identity or renewed enthusiasm, both of which might have been expected to follow the appointment of a new coach.&nbsp;

"Like any coach, I am responsible," said Koeman on Saturday. "We have to improve the results. We have to improve defensively and in attack and after that I can't do anything more."&nbsp;

It was almost a year ago that Ernesto Valverde was sacked mid-season with the team top of the table, both a jolt reaction to stodgy performances and a delayed one after historical Champions League failure.&nbsp;

His replacement Quique Setien arrived with a purist approach believed to be consistent with Barca's DNA and for a while there were signs of it, only for results to dive and another split become unavoidable.&nbsp;

But Koeman's first four months have brought neither the pragmatism to grind out results nor the imagination to impose a style that dominates opponents or endures through adversity.&nbsp;

Atletico absorbed a handful of chances late on but the onslaught never came and as Barca chased an equaliser, they grew more desperate, the lack of a plan - or at least their belief in one - becoming more and more apparent.&nbsp;

The result feels like a season already set to be consigned to a period of transition, even if Barcelona's starting line-up against Atletico had only two new players and just three aged younger than 25.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<h2>- Koeman in the hot seat -</h2>

&nbsp;

Koeman may be renovating but what team in the world would not find space for the likes of Messi, Antoine Griezmann, Ousmane Dembele, Frenkie de Jong, Jordi Alba, Pique and Marc-Andre ter Stegen?&nbsp;

There has certainly been a glance to the future, with the emergence of Pedri, who started against Atletico, and Sergino Dest and Francisco Trincao, who came on.&nbsp;

There has been a new formation too, a shift to 4-2-3-1, with De Jong as a pivot and Griezmann, and Messi, playing more central.&nbsp;

Yet change needs commitment and leadership, with one of Koeman's biggest problems the drift of his captain.

When Messi ran beyond Atletico's defence in the first half onto a pass from Alba, like he has done so many times before, the expectation was he would fire early past Jan Oblak, even from an acute angle.&nbsp;

Instead, he hesitated, looking up for a pass inside, before a tame finish rolled straight into the hands of the goalkeeper.

At full-time, Messi was among a number of senior players that could have taken responsibility for the team's post-match media duties but instead it was the 17-year-old Pedri in front of the cameras, just as Dest had spoken after the loss last month to Real Madrid.&nbsp;

Messi's efforts on the pitch cannot be questioned but he also looks increasingly burdened playing for Barcelona, with the enjoyment seemingly gone and the buzz lost ever since his failed attempt to leave.&nbsp;

"I'm fed up being the problem with everything that goes on at this club," said the frustrated 33-year-old on Wednesday, when questioned by reporters about his relationship with Griezmann, after a 15-hour flight back from Peru.&nbsp;

If Koeman does not inspire Messi, perhaps someone else will given a new club president in January could mean a new coach, either immediately or next summer, when Messi himself could walk away for free.&nbsp;

Every change will bring fresh upheaval. Koeman's transition could be the first of many.&nbsp;

Lionel Messi was almost unrecognisable and so were Barcelona as a rare defeat by Atletico Madrid on Saturday cast further doubt over the direction of the Ronald Koeman project.

Lionel Messi was almost unrecognisable and so were Barcelona as a rare defeat by Atletico Madrid on Saturday cast further doubt over the direction of the Ronald Koeman project. Atletico had not beaten Barca in the league since 2010, their 1-0 win at the Wanda Metropolitano a timely affirmation that they are contenders and arguably now favourites to win La Liga. For Barca sitting 12th, albeit with a game or two in hand over some of those above them, the immediate blow of a third league defeat in eight games was compounded by a knee ligament injury to Gerard Pique, which leaves Koeman with only one fit central defender. But perhaps more concerning is the sense that Koeman's Barcelona appear already to be stalling, devoid of either a clear identity or renewed enthusiasm, both of which might have been expected to follow the appointment of a new coach. "Like any coach, I am responsible," said Koeman on Saturday. "We have to improve the results. We have to improve defensively and in attack and after that I can't do anything more." It was almost a year ago that Ernesto Valverde was sacked mid-season with the team top of the table, both a jolt reaction to stodgy performances and a delayed one after historical Champions League failure. His replacement Quique Setien arrived with a purist approach believed to be consistent with Barca's DNA and for a while there were signs of it, only for results to dive and another split become unavoidable. But Koeman's first four months have brought neither the pragmatism to grind out results nor the imagination to impose a style that dominates opponents or endures through adversity. Atletico absorbed a handful of chances late on but the onslaught never came and as Barca chased an equaliser, they grew more desperate, the lack of a plan - or at least their belief in one - becoming more and more apparent. The result feels like a season already set to be consigned to a period of transition, even if Barcelona's starting line-up against Atletico had only two new players and just three aged younger than 25. - Koeman in the hot seat - Koeman may be renovating but what team in the world would not find space for the likes of Messi, Antoine Griezmann, Ousmane Dembele, Frenkie de Jong, Jordi Alba, Pique and Marc-Andre ter Stegen? There has certainly been a glance to the future, with the emergence of Pedri, who started against Atletico, and Sergino Dest and Francisco Trincao, who came on. There has been a new formation too, a shift to 4-2-3-1, with De Jong as a pivot and Griezmann, and Messi, playing more central. Yet change needs commitment and leadership, with one of Koeman's biggest problems the drift of his captain. When Messi ran beyond Atletico's defence in the first half onto a pass from Alba, like he has done so many times before, the expectation was he would fire early past Jan Oblak, even from an acute angle. Instead, he hesitated, looking up for a pass inside, before a tame finish rolled straight into the hands of the goalkeeper. At full-time, Messi was among a number of senior players that could have taken responsibility for the team's post-match media duties but instead it was the 17-year-old Pedri in front of the cameras, just as Dest had spoken after the loss last month to Real Madrid. Messi's efforts on the pitch cannot be questioned but he also looks increasingly burdened playing for Barcelona, with the enjoyment seemingly gone and the buzz lost ever since his failed attempt to leave. "I'm fed up being the problem with everything that goes on at this club," said the frustrated 33-year-old on Wednesday, when questioned by reporters about his relationship with Griezmann, after a 15-hour flight back from Peru. If Koeman does not inspire Messi, perhaps someone else will given a new club president in January could mean a new coach, either immediately or next summer, when Messi himself could walk away for free. Every change will bring fresh upheaval. Koeman's transition could be the first of many.

Barca drift, Messi disillusioned as Koeman renovation yet to convince

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> clubs Arsenal and Leeds United have strictly condemned abuse aimed at Nicholas Pepe and Ezgjan Alioski on social media following their goalless draw on Sunday. While Pepe was sent off after VAR officials spotted that the Arsenal forward had head-butted defender Alioski, the Arsenal winger was brandished a red card after referee Anthony Taylor took a look at the VAR monitor.

According to reports, both Pepe and Alioski were subjected to racial abuse from rival supporters after the match. Arsenal said that they will work with the police and authorities to trace and prosecute the culprits.

“We utterly condemn the vile abuse directed at Nicolas Pepe and Ezgjan Alioski on social media following our match against Leeds United,” Arsenal said in a statement.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/injury-hit-liverpool-keep-setting-records-10-man-arsenal-hold-leeds-344789" hreflang="en">Injury-hit Liverpool keep setting records, 10-man Arsenal hold Leeds</a>

“This is completely unacceptable and we will be working with the police and authorities to do everything we can to trace and prosecute the culprits.”

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We utterly condemn the vile abuse directed at Nicolas Pepe and Ezgjan Alioski on social media following our match against Leeds. 
 
This is completely unacceptable and we will be working with the police and authorities to do everything we can to trace and prosecute the culprits.
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) <a href="https://twitter.com/Arsenal/status/1330798429220593667?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Whereas Leeds United also released a similar statement as they said they would not tolerate such abuse.

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The vile abuse directed at Ezgjan Alioski and Nicolas Pepe on social media after yesterday’s game with Arsenal will not be tolerated by <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LUFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LUFC</a>. 
 
We will work closely with the police and the footballing authorities to ensure those responsible are identified and punished.
— Leeds United (@LUFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/LUFC/status/1330801801269043202?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The extreme growth of social media has fueled discriminatory abuse towards footballers in recent years.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpools-mohamed-salah-to-start-training-after-negative-covid-19-test-jurgen-klopp-344905" hreflang="en">Liverpool's Mohamed Salah to start training after negative COVID-19 test: Jurgen Klopp</a>

The likes of Patrick van Aanholt and winger Wilfried Zaha are among the players who have urged the authorities to take stricter action against racism after they were targeted.&nbsp;

Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford, Paul Pogba; Manchester City’s Raheem Sterling and many other players from the Premier League and other European Leagues have suffered social media abuse over the years on the basis of their on-field or off-field life. &nbsp;

Premier League clubs Arsenal and Leeds United have strictly condemned abuse aimed at Nicholas Pepe and Ezgjan Alioski on social media following their goalless draw on Sunday.

Premier League clubs Arsenal and Leeds United have strictly condemned abuse aimed at Nicholas Pepe and Ezgjan Alioski on social media following their goalless draw on Sunday. While Pepe was sent off after VAR officials spotted that the Arsenal forward had head-butted defender Alioski, the Arsenal winger was brandished a red card after referee Anthony Taylor took a look at the VAR monitor. According to reports, both Pepe and Alioski were subjected to racial abuse from rival supporters after the match. Arsenal said that they will work with the police and authorities to trace and prosecute the culprits. “We utterly condemn the vile abuse directed at Nicolas Pepe and Ezgjan Alioski on social media following our match against Leeds United,” Arsenal said in a statement. ALSO READ: Injury-hit Liverpool keep setting records, 10-man Arsenal hold Leeds “This is completely unacceptable and we will be working with the police and authorities to do everything we can to trace and prosecute the culprits.” We utterly condemn the vile abuse directed at Nicolas Pepe and Ezgjan Alioski on social media following our match against Leeds. This is completely unacceptable and we will be working with the police and authorities to do everything we can to trace and prosecute the culprits. — Arsenal (@Arsenal) November 23, 2020 × Whereas Leeds United also released a similar statement as they said they would not tolerate such abuse. The vile abuse directed at Ezgjan Alioski and Nicolas Pepe on social media after yesterday’s game with Arsenal will not be tolerated by #LUFC. We will work closely with the police and the footballing authorities to ensure those responsible are identified and punished. — Leeds United (@LUFC) November 23, 2020 × The extreme growth of social media has fueled discriminatory abuse towards footballers in recent years. ALSO READ: Liverpool's Mohamed Salah to start training after negative COVID-19 test: Jurgen Klopp The likes of Patrick van Aanholt and winger Wilfried Zaha are among the players who have urged the authorities to take stricter action against racism after they were targeted. Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford, Paul Pogba; Manchester City’s Raheem Sterling and many other players from the Premier League and other European Leagues have suffered social media abuse over the years on the basis of their on-field or off-field life.

'Completely unacceptable': Arsenal, Leeds condemn online abuse of Pepe, Alioski

Team India fast bowler Mohammed Siraj is completely focused on fulfilling his late father’s wish to represent the country and win matches for India. Siraj is in the Indian squad for the four-match Test series against Australia in what is his maiden Test call-up to the Indian team. However, before he could wear the India whites, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mohammed-sirajs-father-passes-away-indian-pacer-unable-to-travel-to-india-344375">Siraj lost his ‘biggest supporter’ – father Mohammed Ghouse – on Friday</a>.

Ghouse, aged 53, was admitted to a hospital when Siraj was playing in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

However, after the demise of his father on Friday, the BCCI gave a chance to Siraj to return home to be with his bereaved family. But the Indian pacer decided to stay with the team and perform his national duties in a bid to make his late father proud.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-tv-viewership-reached-3157-million-average-impressions-star-india-344359" hreflang="en">IPL TV viewership reached 31.57 million average impressions: Star India</a>

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Want to fulfill my father's dream: Siraj 
 
The fast bowler speaks about overcoming personal loss and why he decided to continue performing national duties in Australia. Interview by <a href="https://twitter.com/Moulinparikh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Moulinparikh</a> 
 
Full interview 👉<a href="https://t.co/xv8ohMYneK">https://t.co/xv8ohMYneK</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/UAOVgivbx1">pic.twitter.com/UAOVgivbx1</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1330834262036123648?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Speaking on bcci.tv, Mohammed Siraj, on Monday, termed his father his ‘biggest supporter’ and said that his death is a big loss for him. Siraj also revealed his mother’s message for him ahead of the Test series against Australia.&nbsp;

“It is a very big loss for me because he was my biggest supporter. My father’s wish was to see me play for India and make the nation proud. Now, all I want to do is fulfil my father’s dream,” Mohammed Siraj told bcci.tv on Monday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovics-positive-covid-19-test-nearly-led-to-ipl-2020-cancellation-344851" hreflang="en">Novak Djokovic's positive COVID-19 test nearly led to IPL 2020 cancellation</a>

“Even though my father is no more in this world, he is still with me in my heart. I talked to my mother who reminded me of my father’s dream and encouraged me to perform well for Team India,” he added. 
Siraj further said how the Indian teammates have supported him in these tough times while revealing skipper Virat Kohli’s message to him.&nbsp;

“My team members have supported me like a family in this situation. Virat [Kohli] bhai encouraged me and told me to stay strong and fulfil my father’s dream,” the 26-year-old said.

After three ODIs and as many T20Is, India and Australia will lock horns in the four-Test Border-Gavaskar series starting from December 17. 
&nbsp;

Team India fast bowler Mohammed Siraj is completely focused on fulfilling his late father’s wish to represent the country and win matches for India. Siraj is in the Indian squad for the four-match Test series against Australia in what is his maiden Test call-up to the Indian team.

Team India fast bowler Mohammed Siraj is completely focused on fulfilling his late father’s wish to represent the country and win matches for India. Siraj is in the Indian squad for the four-match Test series against Australia in what is his maiden Test call-up to the Indian team. However, before he could wear the India whites, Siraj lost his ‘biggest supporter’ – father Mohammed Ghouse – on Friday. Ghouse, aged 53, was admitted to a hospital when Siraj was playing in the Indian Premier League (IPL). However, after the demise of his father on Friday, the BCCI gave a chance to Siraj to return home to be with his bereaved family. But the Indian pacer decided to stay with the team and perform his national duties in a bid to make his late father proud. ALSO READ: IPL TV viewership reached 31.57 million average impressions: Star India Want to fulfill my father's dream: Siraj The fast bowler speaks about overcoming personal loss and why he decided to continue performing national duties in Australia. Interview by @Moulinparikh Full interview 👉https://t.co/xv8ohMYneK #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/UAOVgivbx1 — BCCI (@BCCI) November 23, 2020 × Speaking on bcci.tv, Mohammed Siraj, on Monday, termed his father his ‘biggest supporter’ and said that his death is a big loss for him. Siraj also revealed his mother’s message for him ahead of the Test series against Australia. “It is a very big loss for me because he was my biggest supporter. My father’s wish was to see me play for India and make the nation proud. Now, all I want to do is fulfil my father’s dream,” Mohammed Siraj told bcci.tv on Monday. ALSO READ: Novak Djokovic's positive COVID-19 test nearly led to IPL 2020 cancellation “Even though my father is no more in this world, he is still with me in my heart. I talked to my mother who reminded me of my father’s dream and encouraged me to perform well for Team India,” he added. Siraj further said how the Indian teammates have supported him in these tough times while revealing skipper Virat Kohli’s message to him. “My team members have supported me like a family in this situation. Virat [Kohli] bhai encouraged me and told me to stay strong and fulfil my father’s dream,” the 26-year-old said. After three ODIs and as many T20Is, India and Australia will lock horns in the four-Test Border-Gavaskar series starting from December 17.

India's Mohammed Siraj opens up on the loss of his father, says 'want to fulfil his dream'

South Africa international defender Anele Ngcongca on Monday died in a car accident, his Premier Soccer League club AmaZulu have confirmed. Ngcongca, 33, was a member of the South African football squad at the 2010 FIFA World Cup and started in the memorable 2-1 win against France.&nbsp;

Ngcongca, represented South Africa 53 times over seven years with his last appearance coming in the year 2016. The defender also spent nine seasons at Belgian club Genk, competing in the UEFA Champions League in five of those seasons and went on to make 279 appearances.

Notably, Ngcongca – a right-back – was named in Genk’s Team of the Century in 2015 alongside Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and Man City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lewis-hamilton-set-to-be-awarded-knighthood-in-new-years-honours-list-344844" hreflang="en">Lewis Hamilton set to be awarded knighthood in New Year's Honours List</a>

Ngcongca was a passenger in a vehicle as it lost control on a highway 50 kilometres north of Durban. The female driver is said to be in critical condition in hospital.

Paul Herbst of IPPS Medical Rescue said that on the arrival of IPSS advanced life support paramedics, an adult male was found lying approximately 30 meters from the wrecked vehicle. The paramedics declared him dead after the man showed no signs of life.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovics-positive-covid-19-test-nearly-led-to-ipl-2020-cancellation-344851" hreflang="en">Novak Djokovic's positive COVID-19 test nearly led to IPL 2020 cancellation</a>

“On arrival of IPSS advanced life support paramedics, they found an adult male lying approximately 30m from the wrecked vehicle. The man showed no signs of life and was declared dead by paramedics,” Paul Herbst of IPSS Medical Rescue said in a statement.

The untimely death of Anele Ngcongca&nbsp;comes as a massive shock for the worldwide footballing community.

South Africa international defender Anele Ngcongca on Monday died in a car accident, his Premier Soccer League club AmaZulu have confirmed. Ngcongca, 33, was a member of the South African football squad at the 2010 FIFA World Cup and started in the memorable 2-1 win against France.

South Africa international defender Anele Ngcongca on Monday died in a car accident, his Premier Soccer League club AmaZulu have confirmed. Ngcongca, 33, was a member of the South African football squad at the 2010 FIFA World Cup and started in the memorable 2-1 win against France. Ngcongca, represented South Africa 53 times over seven years with his last appearance coming in the year 2016. The defender also spent nine seasons at Belgian club Genk, competing in the UEFA Champions League in five of those seasons and went on to make 279 appearances. Notably, Ngcongca – a right-back – was named in Genk’s Team of the Century in 2015 alongside Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and Man City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne. ALSO READ: Lewis Hamilton set to be awarded knighthood in New Year's Honours List Ngcongca was a passenger in a vehicle as it lost control on a highway 50 kilometres north of Durban. The female driver is said to be in critical condition in hospital. Paul Herbst of IPPS Medical Rescue said that on the arrival of IPSS advanced life support paramedics, an adult male was found lying approximately 30 meters from the wrecked vehicle. The paramedics declared him dead after the man showed no signs of life. ALSO READ: Novak Djokovic's positive COVID-19 test nearly led to IPL 2020 cancellation “On arrival of IPSS advanced life support paramedics, they found an adult male lying approximately 30m from the wrecked vehicle. The man showed no signs of life and was declared dead by paramedics,” Paul Herbst of IPSS Medical Rescue said in a statement. The untimely death of Anele Ngcongca comes as a massive shock for the worldwide footballing community.

Footballer Anele Ngcongca, 33, killed in car accident

South Africa pacer Kagiso Rabada on Monday said that it was a team decision to not take the knee in their upcoming white-ball series against England.

Last week, Proteas coach Mark Boucher had revealed that the team would not be kneeling to show support towards the Black Lives Matter movement rather they would be extending support to the issues that the country`s president Cyril Ramaphosa has raised.

"Black Lives Matter is one-hundred percent something I will always stand for and I speak for myself. It was a team decision not to kneel and to look at gender-based violence and devote ourselves to another cause," ESPNCricinfo quoted Rabada as saying.

"However, Black Lives Matter will always be relevant and something I will always believe in and I speak for myself there. But, Mark has stated that the team will not be kneeling and that`s how it`s going to be," he added.

However, Boucher also said that the Proteas players will consider wearing a black armband to show solidarity with the fight against gender-based violence and in memory of the victims of COVID-19, in line with a call made by Ramaphosa to declare November 25-29 national days of mourning.

During the 3TC game in July, players and all support staff including the director of cricket Graeme Smith wore black arm-bands and took a knee before the match to extend support to the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement.

Earlier this year, 31 former and current Proteas cricketers had signed a letter showcasing their support towards the Black Lives Matter campaign and pacer Lungi Ngidi.

Following this, Cricket South Africa (CSA), its board of directors and executive committee had reaffirmed their support towards the BLM movement, and its relevance in South Africa.

"We note the claims of discrimination and racism that have been made by current and former players and coaches, and we acknowledge that these are a part of the sport`s past, and sadly, its present. We have to face the reality, as management and custodians of the game, that we need to come up with creative, tangible, and meaningful ways to address this -- even more, than we have done already -- to make sure that they are not part of our future," the CSA had said in an official statement in July.

South Africa and England are slated to lock horns against each other in three T20Is and three ODIs, starting November 27 in Cape Town.

South Africa pacer Kagiso Rabada on Monday said that it was a team decision to not take the knee in their upcoming white-ball series against England. Last week, Proteas coach Mark Boucher had revealed that the team would not be kneeling to show support towards the Black Lives Matter movement rather they would be extending support to the issues that the country`s president Cyril Ramaphosa has raised.

South Africa pacer Kagiso Rabada on Monday said that it was a team decision to not take the knee in their upcoming white-ball series against England. Last week, Proteas coach Mark Boucher had revealed that the team would not be kneeling to show support towards the Black Lives Matter movement rather they would be extending support to the issues that the country`s president Cyril Ramaphosa has raised. "Black Lives Matter is one-hundred percent something I will always stand for and I speak for myself. It was a team decision not to kneel and to look at gender-based violence and devote ourselves to another cause," ESPNCricinfo quoted Rabada as saying. "However, Black Lives Matter will always be relevant and something I will always believe in and I speak for myself there. But, Mark has stated that the team will not be kneeling and that`s how it`s going to be," he added. However, Boucher also said that the Proteas players will consider wearing a black armband to show solidarity with the fight against gender-based violence and in memory of the victims of COVID-19, in line with a call made by Ramaphosa to declare November 25-29 national days of mourning. During the 3TC game in July, players and all support staff including the director of cricket Graeme Smith wore black arm-bands and took a knee before the match to extend support to the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement. Earlier this year, 31 former and current Proteas cricketers had signed a letter showcasing their support towards the Black Lives Matter campaign and pacer Lungi Ngidi. Following this, Cricket South Africa (CSA), its board of directors and executive committee had reaffirmed their support towards the BLM movement, and its relevance in South Africa. "We note the claims of discrimination and racism that have been made by current and former players and coaches, and we acknowledge that these are a part of the sport`s past, and sadly, its present. We have to face the reality, as management and custodians of the game, that we need to come up with creative, tangible, and meaningful ways to address this -- even more, than we have done already -- to make sure that they are not part of our future," the CSA had said in an official statement in July. South Africa and England are slated to lock horns against each other in three T20Is and three ODIs, starting November 27 in Cape Town.

SA vs Eng: Team decision to not take the knee, says Rabada

Liverpool’s talismanic forward Mohamed Salah can return back to training after testing negative for COVID-19, manager Jurgen Klopp has confirmed. Salah missed Liverpool’s 3-0 win over Leicester City&nbsp;in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> after contracting the coronavirus but has now tested negative.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-star-mohamed-salah-tests-positive-for-covid-19-343028">Salah had tested positive for COVID-19</a>&nbsp;while on international duty with Egypt last week. Klopp said that Salah has tested negative and can re-join the training group as Liverpool gear up for gruelling fixtures in the Premier League, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/uefa-champions-league">UEFA Champions League</a> and other competitions. He further said that there are two more tests lined-up for the next two days.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-klopp-wants-five-subs-rule-ahead-of-busy-christmas-schedule-344673" hreflang="en">Premier League: Klopp wants five subs rule ahead of busy Christmas schedule</a>

<h2>Salah can train with us: Jurgen Klopp</h2>

“That’s what I’ve heard, a negative,” Klopp said. “I think from now he is pretty normal in all the testing. On Monday, we have UEFA testing and I am pretty sure he will be in that.

“He can train with us. There are two tests in the next two days so he will be tested.”

Despite enjoying a sensational run of form, Liverpool continue to suffer injuries, like many other clubs around the world, as Klopp confirmed that Naby Keita had sustained a hamstring injury against Leicester, joining the likes of Virgil Van Dijk, Joe Gomez and Trent Alexander-Arnold in the sidelines. Keita was withdrawn after 53 minutes and replaced by Neco Williams.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/injury-hit-liverpool-keep-setting-records-10-man-arsenal-hold-leeds-344789" hreflang="en">Injury-hit Liverpool keep setting records, 10-man Arsenal hold Leeds</a>

“He (Keita) felt his hamstring and was not able to play on, otherwise he would have stayed on the pitch,” Klopp said.

Liverpool will next take on Atalanta in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday before locking horns with Brighton and Hove Albion on Saturday.

Liverpool defeated Leicester City 3-0 to second in the Premier League 2020-21 standings, equal with league leaders Tottenham Hotspur. 
&nbsp;

Liverpool’s talismanic forward Mohamed Salah can return back to training after testing negative for COVID-19, manager Jurgen Klopp has confirmed. Salah missed Liverpool’s 3-0 win over Leicester City in the Premier League after contracting the coronavirus but has now tested negative.

Liverpool’s talismanic forward Mohamed Salah can return back to training after testing negative for COVID-19, manager Jurgen Klopp has confirmed. Salah missed Liverpool’s 3-0 win over Leicester City in the Premier League after contracting the coronavirus but has now tested negative. Salah had tested positive for COVID-19 while on international duty with Egypt last week. Klopp said that Salah has tested negative and can re-join the training group as Liverpool gear up for gruelling fixtures in the Premier League, UEFA Champions League and other competitions. He further said that there are two more tests lined-up for the next two days. ALSO READ: Premier League: Klopp wants five subs rule ahead of busy Christmas schedule Salah can train with us: Jurgen Klopp “That’s what I’ve heard, a negative,” Klopp said. “I think from now he is pretty normal in all the testing. On Monday, we have UEFA testing and I am pretty sure he will be in that. “He can train with us. There are two tests in the next two days so he will be tested.” Despite enjoying a sensational run of form, Liverpool continue to suffer injuries, like many other clubs around the world, as Klopp confirmed that Naby Keita had sustained a hamstring injury against Leicester, joining the likes of Virgil Van Dijk, Joe Gomez and Trent Alexander-Arnold in the sidelines. Keita was withdrawn after 53 minutes and replaced by Neco Williams. ALSO READ: Injury-hit Liverpool keep setting records, 10-man Arsenal hold Leeds “He (Keita) felt his hamstring and was not able to play on, otherwise he would have stayed on the pitch,” Klopp said. Liverpool will next take on Atalanta in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday before locking horns with Brighton and Hove Albion on Saturday. Liverpool defeated Leicester City 3-0 to second in the Premier League 2020-21 standings, equal with league leaders Tottenham Hotspur.

Liverpool's Mohamed Salah to start training after negative COVID-19 test: Jurgen Klopp

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) successfully conducted the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL)</a> in the UAE despite postponement in March 2020. In April 2020, IPL was further postponed indefinitely as doubts surfaced whether it would be possible to organise the T20 tournament amid the COVID-19 pandemic. However, BCCI went ahead with their plans and shifted the IPL 2020 in the UAE, which was played behind closed doors, and earned a staggering INR 4,000 crore.&nbsp;

BCCI was staring at a massive financial loss had the IPL 2020 been cancelled but led by BCCI president Sourav Ganguly, the Indian board managed to successfully host the tournament.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovics-positive-covid-19-test-nearly-led-to-ipl-2020-cancellation-344851" hreflang="en">Novak Djokovic's positive COVID-19 test nearly led to IPL 2020 cancellation</a>

BCCI treasurer Arun Dhumal praised the Indian board for cutting nearly 35 per cent of the cost as compared to previous IPL while adding that TV viewership saw a 25 per cent surge and that the board earned a whopping INR 4,000 crore.&nbsp;

“The Board managed to cut nearly 35 per cent of the cost as compared to the last IPL. We earned Rs 4,000 crore during the pandemic time. Our TV viewership went about 25 per cent higher, we got the highest-ever opening game (Mumbai Indians versus Chennai Super Kings) viewership. Those who doubted us came and thanked us for hosting the IPL. Had this IPL not happened, cricketers would have lost one year,” BCCI treasurer Arun Dhumal told The Indian Express.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-witnessed-record-breaking-surge-in-viewership-342978" hreflang="en">IPL 2020 witnessed record-breaking surge in viewership</a>

Dhumal also revealed that the BCCI conducted over 30,000 tests with over 1,5000 people involved with the tournament. Reportedly, the BCCI paid INR 100 crore to the Emirates Cricket Board for helping them host IPL 2020. 
&nbsp;

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) successfully conducted the Indian Premier League (IPL) in the UAE despite postponement in March 2020. In April 2020, IPL was further postponed indefinitely as doubts surfaced whether it would be possible to organise the T20 tournament amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) successfully conducted the Indian Premier League (IPL) in the UAE despite postponement in March 2020. In April 2020, IPL was further postponed indefinitely as doubts surfaced whether it would be possible to organise the T20 tournament amid the COVID-19 pandemic. However, BCCI went ahead with their plans and shifted the IPL 2020 in the UAE, which was played behind closed doors, and earned a staggering INR 4,000 crore. BCCI was staring at a massive financial loss had the IPL 2020 been cancelled but led by BCCI president Sourav Ganguly, the Indian board managed to successfully host the tournament. ALSO READ: Novak Djokovic's positive COVID-19 test nearly led to IPL 2020 cancellation BCCI treasurer Arun Dhumal praised the Indian board for cutting nearly 35 per cent of the cost as compared to previous IPL while adding that TV viewership saw a 25 per cent surge and that the board earned a whopping INR 4,000 crore. “The Board managed to cut nearly 35 per cent of the cost as compared to the last IPL. We earned Rs 4,000 crore during the pandemic time. Our TV viewership went about 25 per cent higher, we got the highest-ever opening game (Mumbai Indians versus Chennai Super Kings) viewership. Those who doubted us came and thanked us for hosting the IPL. Had this IPL not happened, cricketers would have lost one year,” BCCI treasurer Arun Dhumal told The Indian Express. ALSO READ: IPL 2020 witnessed record-breaking surge in viewership Dhumal also revealed that the BCCI conducted over 30,000 tests with over 1,5000 people involved with the tournament. Reportedly, the BCCI paid INR 100 crore to the Emirates Cricket Board for helping them host IPL 2020.

BCCI earns a whopping INR 4000 crore by conducting IPL 2020

The 13th edition of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL)</a> was successfully hosted in the UAE this year amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) received a lot of plaudits for safely conducting the tournament even after moving it overseas. IPL 2020 was played behind closed doors with franchises staying in bio-secure bubbles.&nbsp;

However, there was a time when tennis world number one Novak Djokovic’s positive COVID-19 test put the entire IPL 2020 in jeopardy. The BCCI hierarchy discussed the fate of the tournament after Djokovic tested positive for the dreaded virus after participating in his charity events in Croatia and Serbia. But the Indian board went ahead with the plans and went on to successfully organise the event in the UAE – and reaped rich rewards for organising a full-fledged IPL.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chennai-super-kings-become-the-most-tweeted-about-team-during-cricket-season-343849" hreflang="en">Chennai Super Kings become the most Tweeted about team during cricket season</a>

BCCI treasurer Arun Dhumal has now revealed how IPL 2020 could have been nearly cancelled after Djokovic tested positive for the coronavirus.

"After that report (about Djokovic testing positive) came in, we were in two minds. Many people told us to not go ahead with it (IPL). What if something happens to a player? The IPL would go on for almost three months. However, Jay said we should go ahead, he was more confident than all of us," Dhumal was quoted as saying by Indian Express, as he recalled his conversation with BCCI secretary Jay Shah.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bubbles-and-the-boss-five-things-we-learned-from-the-ipl-342385" hreflang="en">Bubbles and the boss: five things we learned from the IPL</a>

BCCI, combined with the Emirates Cricket Board, hosted the multi-team T20 tournament successfully in the UAE after the postponement of the T20 World Cup 2020. Reportedly, the BCCI earned a whopping INR 4,000 crore from IPL 2020 as viewership records were broken.&nbsp;

Notably, as many as 30,000 COVID-19 tests were conducted by the BCCI during the course of the tournament with 60 matches played in the UAE. None of the games was affected by the virus. 
&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The 13th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) was successfully hosted in the UAE this year amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) received a lot of plaudits for safely conducting the tournament even after moving it overseas.

The 13th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) was successfully hosted in the UAE this year amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) received a lot of plaudits for safely conducting the tournament even after moving it overseas. IPL 2020 was played behind closed doors with franchises staying in bio-secure bubbles. However, there was a time when tennis world number one Novak Djokovic’s positive COVID-19 test put the entire IPL 2020 in jeopardy. The BCCI hierarchy discussed the fate of the tournament after Djokovic tested positive for the dreaded virus after participating in his charity events in Croatia and Serbia. But the Indian board went ahead with the plans and went on to successfully organise the event in the UAE – and reaped rich rewards for organising a full-fledged IPL. ALSO READ: Chennai Super Kings become the most Tweeted about team during cricket season BCCI treasurer Arun Dhumal has now revealed how IPL 2020 could have been nearly cancelled after Djokovic tested positive for the coronavirus. "After that report (about Djokovic testing positive) came in, we were in two minds. Many people told us to not go ahead with it (IPL). What if something happens to a player? The IPL would go on for almost three months. However, Jay said we should go ahead, he was more confident than all of us," Dhumal was quoted as saying by Indian Express, as he recalled his conversation with BCCI secretary Jay Shah. ALSO READ: Bubbles and the boss: five things we learned from the IPL BCCI, combined with the Emirates Cricket Board, hosted the multi-team T20 tournament successfully in the UAE after the postponement of the T20 World Cup 2020. Reportedly, the BCCI earned a whopping INR 4,000 crore from IPL 2020 as viewership records were broken. Notably, as many as 30,000 COVID-19 tests were conducted by the BCCI during the course of the tournament with 60 matches played in the UAE. None of the games was affected by the virus.

Novak Djokovic's positive COVID-19 test nearly led to IPL 2020 cancellation

Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton is set to secure his status as Britain’s highest-achieving sportsman of his era and arguably of all-time as he is set to be recognized with a knighthood in the New Year's Honours List.

Hamilton, a seven-time world champion, will be rewarded knighthood after Boris Johnson personally intervened to get a nod for Hamilton.

The knighthood will put Hamilton on par with the likes of Sir Mo Farah, Sir Andy Murray and Sir Alastair Cook as sportspersons to have secured knighthood.&nbsp;

According to David Coulthard, Michael Schumacher and Lewis Hamilton – in their primes – would be pretty equal in terms of skills and podium finishes.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lewis-hamilton-named-most-influential-black-person-in-the-uk-343921" hreflang="en">Lewis Hamilton named most influential black person in the UK</a>

<h2>Sir Lewis Hamilton after dominating F1 for a decade</h2>

Hamilton, over the years, has sealed a spot as one of the worthy sporting personalities for the honour after dominating Formula One for nearly a decade while setting a record number of wins and pole positions. He secured his seventh world title in Turkey last week as the achievement brought his level with Michael Schumacher in terms of championship titles.

However, Hamilton’s tax status has delayed the impending elevation. Hamilton, who is worth more than £250million resides in Monaco and saved £3.3m in tax by registering his private jet on the Isle of Man. It has been sold since then.

Despite all this, Hamilton remains among the 5,000 highest taxpayers in the UK.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lewis-hamilton-the-world-champion-some-find-hard-to-like-343414" hreflang="en">Lewis Hamilton: The world champion some find hard to like</a>

According to Sportsmail, Prime Minister Boris Johnson is happy to overrule the conservation within the sports honours committee to knight an active athlete.&nbsp;

David Richards, chairman of Motorsport UK, the national governing body, said: ‘If correct, this is wonderful news and well-deserved recognition for Lewis.

‘It is for the Government to decide but it is clear that it is not only his considerable record as a sportsman that is outstanding. There are also the other spheres in which he is now a leading voice, from environment issues to fighting for opportunity for all.’

Hamilton will hence become the fourth F1 driver to be knighted after Sir Jack Brabham, Sir Stirling Moss and Sir Jackie Stewart, all awarded post-retirement.&nbsp;

Interestingly, no other F1 driver was knighted while racing

Hamilton said last week: ‘When I think about being knighted, I think of people like my grandad who served in the war. And Captain Tom, who waited 100 years.

‘Then you have these doctors and nurses who are saving lives at this hardest time ever. I don’t look at myself as an unsung hero. I haven’t saved anybody.’

Hamilton was awarded MBE in 2008 when he won the first of his titles, aged 23, at McLaren.

Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton is set to secure his status as Britain’s highest-achieving sportsman of his era and arguably of all-time as he is set to be recognized with a knighthood in the New Year's Honours List.

Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton is set to secure his status as Britain’s highest-achieving sportsman of his era and arguably of all-time as he is set to be recognized with a knighthood in the New Year's Honours List. Hamilton, a seven-time world champion, will be rewarded knighthood after Boris Johnson personally intervened to get a nod for Hamilton. The knighthood will put Hamilton on par with the likes of Sir Mo Farah, Sir Andy Murray and Sir Alastair Cook as sportspersons to have secured knighthood. According to David Coulthard, Michael Schumacher and Lewis Hamilton – in their primes – would be pretty equal in terms of skills and podium finishes. ALSO READ: Lewis Hamilton named most influential black person in the UK Sir Lewis Hamilton after dominating F1 for a decade Hamilton, over the years, has sealed a spot as one of the worthy sporting personalities for the honour after dominating Formula One for nearly a decade while setting a record number of wins and pole positions. He secured his seventh world title in Turkey last week as the achievement brought his level with Michael Schumacher in terms of championship titles. However, Hamilton’s tax status has delayed the impending elevation. Hamilton, who is worth more than £250million resides in Monaco and saved £3.3m in tax by registering his private jet on the Isle of Man. It has been sold since then. Despite all this, Hamilton remains among the 5,000 highest taxpayers in the UK. ALSO READ: Lewis Hamilton: The world champion some find hard to like According to Sportsmail, Prime Minister Boris Johnson is happy to overrule the conservation within the sports honours committee to knight an active athlete. David Richards, chairman of Motorsport UK, the national governing body, said: ‘If correct, this is wonderful news and well-deserved recognition for Lewis. ‘It is for the Government to decide but it is clear that it is not only his considerable record as a sportsman that is outstanding. There are also the other spheres in which he is now a leading voice, from environment issues to fighting for opportunity for all.’ Hamilton will hence become the fourth F1 driver to be knighted after Sir Jack Brabham, Sir Stirling Moss and Sir Jackie Stewart, all awarded post-retirement. Interestingly, no other F1 driver was knighted while racing Hamilton said last week: ‘When I think about being knighted, I think of people like my grandad who served in the war. And Captain Tom, who waited 100 years. ‘Then you have these doctors and nurses who are saving lives at this hardest time ever. I don’t look at myself as an unsung hero. I haven’t saved anybody.’ Hamilton was awarded MBE in 2008 when he won the first of his titles, aged 23, at McLaren.

Lewis Hamilton set to be awarded knighthood in New Year's Honours List

The Undertaker retires: A look back at the evolution of 'Deadman'

The Undertaker got a fitting farewell in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/wwe-news">WWE</a>&nbsp;Survivor Series as he brought the curtains down on a massively decorated 30-year career. The Undertaker, who also made his debut at WWE Survivor Series in the year 1990, walked out to the ring, in his gracious yet spine-shivering slow walk for the “Final Farewell”.

Many of his contemporaries, colleagues came out to pay a fitting tribute to the legendary character.

The Undertaker, whose booming voice gave nightmares to his opponents over the years, became a bit emotional as he gave his Final Farwell speech in the ring. He announced that his time has come to let The Undertaker rest in peace.

"For 30 long years, I've made that slow walk to this ring and have laid people to rest time and time again. And now my time has come. My time has come to let The Undertaker rest in peace," The Undertaker said at the ThunderDome.

<h2>Relive The Undertaker's Final Farwell - Video</h2>

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I’m not crying, you’re crying 😭... thanks for 30 years of memories Undertaker <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FarewellTaker?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FarewellTaker</a> <a href="https://t.co/mkaFA5pweU">pic.twitter.com/mkaFA5pweU</a>
— Wombat_Mätt ✭ (@Wombat_Matt) <a href="https://twitter.com/Wombat_Matt/status/1330717142967332866?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Rest In Peace <a href="https://twitter.com/undertaker?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@undertaker</a> ⚰ Long Live Mark William Calaway 🔥⚱😭 <a href="https://t.co/7eCB5UYvWa">pic.twitter.com/7eCB5UYvWa</a>
— The Undertaker Lives 4 Ever ⚱ (@Mark34808590) <a href="https://twitter.com/Mark34808590/status/1330732105303810054?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wrestling-legend-the-undertaker-bids-farewell-to-wwe-universe-344794" hreflang="en">Wrestling legend The Undertaker bids farewell to WWE universe</a>

The Undertaker or Mark Callaway had announced his retirement in June with his ‘Boneyard Match’ against AJ Styles at Wrestlemania 36. He announced that he doesn’t want to participate in another match.

At Survivor Series, an elite list of WWE legends came out to the ring to pay tribute and celebrate The Undertaker’s career.&nbsp;

Shane McMahon, The Big Show, JBL, Jeff Hardy, Mick Foley, The Godfather, The Godwins, Savio Vega, Rikishi, Kevin Nash, Booker T, Shawn Michaels, Ric Flair, Triple H, and masked Kane all came out to the ring and paid rich tributes&nbsp;before a video clip of The Undertaker was played on the big screen.&nbsp;

TRENDING |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/the-undertaker-retires-a-look-back-at-the-evolution-of-deadman-307633">The Undertaker retires: A look back at the evolution of 'Deadman'</a>

WWE Chairman Vince McMahon, who has been an extremely close associate of The Undertaker, also paid an emotional tribute before bringing him out in the ring.

The Undertaker gave a small speech before tipping his hat and struck his signature pose. A hologram of Paul Bearer made the entire Final Farwell just perfect.

The Undertaker got a fitting farewell in the WWE Survivor Series as he brought the curtains down on a massively decorated 30-year career. The Undertaker, who also made his debut at WWE Survivor Series in the year 1990, walked out to the ring, in his gracious yet spine-shivering slow walk for the “Final Farewell”.

The Undertaker got a fitting farewell in the WWE Survivor Series as he brought the curtains down on a massively decorated 30-year career. The Undertaker, who also made his debut at WWE Survivor Series in the year 1990, walked out to the ring, in his gracious yet spine-shivering slow walk for the “Final Farewell”. Many of his contemporaries, colleagues came out to pay a fitting tribute to the legendary character. The Undertaker, whose booming voice gave nightmares to his opponents over the years, became a bit emotional as he gave his Final Farwell speech in the ring. He announced that his time has come to let The Undertaker rest in peace. "For 30 long years, I've made that slow walk to this ring and have laid people to rest time and time again. And now my time has come. My time has come to let The Undertaker rest in peace," The Undertaker said at the ThunderDome. Relive The Undertaker's Final Farwell - Video I’m not crying, you’re crying 😭... thanks for 30 years of memories Undertaker #FarewellTaker pic.twitter.com/mkaFA5pweU — Wombat_Mätt ✭ (@Wombat_Matt) November 23, 2020 × Rest In Peace @undertaker ⚰ Long Live Mark William Calaway 🔥⚱😭 pic.twitter.com/7eCB5UYvWa — The Undertaker Lives 4 Ever ⚱ (@Mark34808590) November 23, 2020 × ALSO READ: Wrestling legend The Undertaker bids farewell to WWE universe The Undertaker or Mark Callaway had announced his retirement in June with his ‘Boneyard Match’ against AJ Styles at Wrestlemania 36. He announced that he doesn’t want to participate in another match. At Survivor Series, an elite list of WWE legends came out to the ring to pay tribute and celebrate The Undertaker’s career. Shane McMahon, The Big Show, JBL, Jeff Hardy, Mick Foley, The Godfather, The Godwins, Savio Vega, Rikishi, Kevin Nash, Booker T, Shawn Michaels, Ric Flair, Triple H, and masked Kane all came out to the ring and paid rich tributes before a video clip of The Undertaker was played on the big screen. TRENDING | The Undertaker retires: A look back at the evolution of 'Deadman' WWE Chairman Vince McMahon, who has been an extremely close associate of The Undertaker, also paid an emotional tribute before bringing him out in the ring. The Undertaker gave a small speech before tipping his hat and struck his signature pose. A hologram of Paul Bearer made the entire Final Farwell just perfect.

'My Time Has Come': The Undertaker gets perfect Final Farewell at Survivor Series - Watch

Australian opener David Warner on Monday vowed to keep his temper in check and rather let his bat do the talking in the upcoming series against India while adding Virat Kohli’s Men in Blue will try to unnerve him with verbal taunts.

Warner, who was once known to keep heart in the sleeves during on-field confrontations, said he has toned down himself as he matured.

The flamboyant opener expects to have some words thrown his way during the upcoming series, which starts with a three-match ODI series on Friday.&nbsp;

"The last time we toured in India they really engaged us like that," Warner told a conference call.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/steve-smith-prepared-for-indias-bouncer-barrage-says-australia-assistant-coach-344709" hreflang="en">Steve Smith prepared for India's bouncer barrage, says Australia assistant coach</a>

"We're learning over time, especially myself, that if you look not to engage in that you're almost reversing the effect by ignoring it, trying to take it in, and using your bat."

Warner further wants to use war of words as motivation as he looks to maintain a positive attitude.&nbsp;

"You don't know the effect (losing your temper) will have on your teammates, so you have to be a bit more humble and be more respectful to the opposition," he said.

"You have to be patient, not get too aggressive, not get angry when the kids aren't listening," he said.

"So I'm getting tested on and off the field."

Warner also supported out-of-form Test opening partner Joe Burns for a spot in the playing XI against India. Burns faces a tough challenge from in-form youngster Will Pucovski.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pujara-should-be-allowed-to-play-the-game-he-knows-best-in-australia-urges-sunil-gavaskar-344544" hreflang="en">'Pujara should be allowed to play the game he knows best in Australia', urges Sunil Gavaskar</a>

"I've spent a lot of time with Joe Burns in the middle, I know exactly what we're about when we're out there," he said.

"Obviously, we won a lot of games last year. So for me, you don't break something that's actually working."

Warner acknowledged Pucovski's claims but said Burns, 31, "did not to anything wrong" to warrant dropping him for the first Test in Adelaide next month.

"Will is an exceptional talent and [will be] a great player for years to come," he said.

Australia and India will lock horns in three ODIs, as many T20Is and four Tests in the two-month-long tour. 
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Australian opener David Warner on Monday vowed to keep his temper in check and rather let his bat do the talking in the upcoming series against India while adding Virat Kohli’s Men in Blue will try to unnerve him with verbal taunts.

Australian opener David Warner on Monday vowed to keep his temper in check and rather let his bat do the talking in the upcoming series against India while adding Virat Kohli’s Men in Blue will try to unnerve him with verbal taunts. Warner, who was once known to keep heart in the sleeves during on-field confrontations, said he has toned down himself as he matured. The flamboyant opener expects to have some words thrown his way during the upcoming series, which starts with a three-match ODI series on Friday. "The last time we toured in India they really engaged us like that," Warner told a conference call. ALSO READ: Steve Smith prepared for India's bouncer barrage, says Australia assistant coach "We're learning over time, especially myself, that if you look not to engage in that you're almost reversing the effect by ignoring it, trying to take it in, and using your bat." Warner further wants to use war of words as motivation as he looks to maintain a positive attitude. "You don't know the effect (losing your temper) will have on your teammates, so you have to be a bit more humble and be more respectful to the opposition," he said. "You have to be patient, not get too aggressive, not get angry when the kids aren't listening," he said. "So I'm getting tested on and off the field." Warner also supported out-of-form Test opening partner Joe Burns for a spot in the playing XI against India. Burns faces a tough challenge from in-form youngster Will Pucovski. ALSO READ: 'Pujara should be allowed to play the game he knows best in Australia', urges Sunil Gavaskar "I've spent a lot of time with Joe Burns in the middle, I know exactly what we're about when we're out there," he said. "Obviously, we won a lot of games last year. So for me, you don't break something that's actually working." Warner acknowledged Pucovski's claims but said Burns, 31, "did not to anything wrong" to warrant dropping him for the first Test in Adelaide next month. "Will is an exceptional talent and [will be] a great player for years to come," he said. Australia and India will lock horns in three ODIs, as many T20Is and four Tests in the two-month-long tour.

AUS vs IND: David Warner won't respond to India taunts, wants his bat do the talking

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has decided to include players with 10 T20I matches in its Central Contracts. The move comes with T20 cricket getting more and more popular with each tournament and series across the world.&nbsp;

As per a report in The Indian Express, the BCCI has introduced a change in the regulations as far as the Central Contract system is concerned. Earlier, the proposal to consider players with T20I caps was made during the tenure of Committee of Administrator’s tenure before it was turned down.&nbsp;

Thus far, only players with a minimum of three Tests or seven ODIs in a year were eligible for Central Contracts.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-test-championship-finalists-to-be-decided-by-percentage-of-points-earned-report-344180" hreflang="en">World Test Championship finalists to be decided by percentage of points earned: report</a>

“The board has decided to change the old clause and add a new one where a player who’s played a minimum of ten T20 games in a year can be given a central contract. In the new contract signed by players, this clause was included. If there’s any specialist T20 player, he should not be deprived of a central contract because his speciality is the shortest format,” a source told The Indian Express.

In 2019, Washington Sundar was awarded a Central Contract despite him playing only T20I cricket for India so far in his career. However, this year many more players could be rewarded.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-australia-2nd-test-mcgs-drop-in-pitch-may-not-up-to-mark-344161" hreflang="en">India-Australia 2nd Test: MCG's drop-in pitch may not up to mark</a>

The Central Contract system of the BCCI has four categories. A+ gets 7 crores, A gets 5 crores, B gets 3 crores and C gets 1 crore. The ace players playing all the formats are the ones who get A+ category.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has decided to include players with 10 T20I matches in its Central Contracts. The move comes with T20 cricket getting more and more popular with each tournament and series across the world.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has decided to include players with 10 T20I matches in its Central Contracts. The move comes with T20 cricket getting more and more popular with each tournament and series across the world. As per a report in The Indian Express, the BCCI has introduced a change in the regulations as far as the Central Contract system is concerned. Earlier, the proposal to consider players with T20I caps was made during the tenure of Committee of Administrator’s tenure before it was turned down. Thus far, only players with a minimum of three Tests or seven ODIs in a year were eligible for Central Contracts. ALSO READ: World Test Championship finalists to be decided by percentage of points earned: report “The board has decided to change the old clause and add a new one where a player who’s played a minimum of ten T20 games in a year can be given a central contract. In the new contract signed by players, this clause was included. If there’s any specialist T20 player, he should not be deprived of a central contract because his speciality is the shortest format,” a source told The Indian Express. In 2019, Washington Sundar was awarded a Central Contract despite him playing only T20I cricket for India so far in his career. However, this year many more players could be rewarded. ALSO READ: India-Australia 2nd Test: MCG's drop-in pitch may not up to mark The Central Contract system of the BCCI has four categories. A+ gets 7 crores, A gets 5 crores, B gets 3 crores and C gets 1 crore. The ace players playing all the formats are the ones who get A+ category.

Players with 10 T20I caps now eligible for BCCI Central Contract: Report

Nine-time world champion Valentino Rossi says it will be a "special moment" when he brings the curtain down on his 15-year factory Yamaha MotoGP career in the final race of the season in Portugal on Sunday.

Joan Mir's World Championship may already be secured but second place and the constructors' title will also be on the line in Portimao.&nbsp;

Rossi, who has won seven of his world titles in the elite class, is among a number of riders bidding farewell, with Andrea Dovizioso heading off for a planned sabbatical and Cal Crutchlow exiting the series to become a Yamaha test rider next year.&nbsp;

Rossi will join Yamaha's satellite Petronas team, leaving the factory to go ahead with Fabio Quartararo alongside Maverick Vinales in 2021.&nbsp;

"Sunday will be a special moment because it was a long journey together," said Rossi, who had two spells with Yamaha, on Thursday.

"Our story is divided into two parts and I have to say thank you to everybody at Yamaha for giving me another chance after the two years with Ducati. Because I was quite desperate, so for me was crucial to come back into the factory team.

"Also the second part was very long. We won a little bit less but anyway it was a great experience with a lot of unforgettable moments. For sure I will miss the team a lot."

Pol Espargaro, Jack Miller, Johann Zarco and Danilo Petrucci are also among those departing for pastures new.&nbsp;

Espargaro and Miller could also break an all-time record by finishing top of the podium and becoming the tenth different race winner in a season that had Mir on course to clinch the championship without a single race victory less than a month ago.&nbsp;

Mir managed to shake off that tag by winning the European Grand Prix but the Spanish Suzuki rider would like nothing more than to add a final flourish to his decisive performance last week, when seventh place in Valencia was enough to become the first new MotoGP champion since Marc Marquez in 2013.&nbsp;

"It is something I have been fighting for all my life, since I was 10 years old," Mir said.&nbsp;

"I had this dream in my mind and I didn't stop until I had this title."

Fellow Spaniard Alex Rins is in the hunt for the runners-up spot but with work to do, sitting four points behind Franco Morbidelli of Petronas Yamaha SRT in the overall standings.&nbsp;

Morbidelli will also have a spring in his step after the Italian finished first at last week's Valencia Grand Prix, where he crossed the line 0.093seconds ahead of Miller to claim his third win of the season.&nbsp;

Rins was not far behind in fourth and his Suzuki team will be hoping to add a constructors' championship to their rider and team titles.&nbsp;

It is all to play for with Ducati, given the two are level on points. Yamaha is mathematically in contention too, 13 points behind.&nbsp;

"We're hoping to complete the triple crown, that would be absolutely incredible," said Suzuki manager Davide Brivio this week.&nbsp;

Crutchlow brings an end this weekend to his career as a full-time rider, which has included 168 races in the premier class, his first coming in 2011.&nbsp;

He achieved 19 podium finishes in total and three race victories.&nbsp;

Dovizioso will ride for the final time before taking a break in 2021 while Espargaro is heading to Red Bull KTM Factory Racing next term.&nbsp;

Miller will switch to Ducati Team from Pramac, with Zarco of Esponsorama Racing replacing him. Petrucci will swap Ducati for Red Bull KTM Tech 3.

Nine-time world champion Valentino Rossi says it will be a "special moment" when he brings the curtain down on his 15-year factory Yamaha MotoGP career in the final race of the season in Portugal on Sunday.

Nine-time world champion Valentino Rossi says it will be a "special moment" when he brings the curtain down on his 15-year factory Yamaha MotoGP career in the final race of the season in Portugal on Sunday. Joan Mir's World Championship may already be secured but second place and the constructors' title will also be on the line in Portimao. Rossi, who has won seven of his world titles in the elite class, is among a number of riders bidding farewell, with Andrea Dovizioso heading off for a planned sabbatical and Cal Crutchlow exiting the series to become a Yamaha test rider next year. Rossi will join Yamaha's satellite Petronas team, leaving the factory to go ahead with Fabio Quartararo alongside Maverick Vinales in 2021. "Sunday will be a special moment because it was a long journey together," said Rossi, who had two spells with Yamaha, on Thursday. "Our story is divided into two parts and I have to say thank you to everybody at Yamaha for giving me another chance after the two years with Ducati. Because I was quite desperate, so for me was crucial to come back into the factory team. "Also the second part was very long. We won a little bit less but anyway it was a great experience with a lot of unforgettable moments. For sure I will miss the team a lot." Pol Espargaro, Jack Miller, Johann Zarco and Danilo Petrucci are also among those departing for pastures new. Espargaro and Miller could also break an all-time record by finishing top of the podium and becoming the tenth different race winner in a season that had Mir on course to clinch the championship without a single race victory less than a month ago. Mir managed to shake off that tag by winning the European Grand Prix but the Spanish Suzuki rider would like nothing more than to add a final flourish to his decisive performance last week, when seventh place in Valencia was enough to become the first new MotoGP champion since Marc Marquez in 2013. "It is something I have been fighting for all my life, since I was 10 years old," Mir said. "I had this dream in my mind and I didn't stop until I had this title." Fellow Spaniard Alex Rins is in the hunt for the runners-up spot but with work to do, sitting four points behind Franco Morbidelli of Petronas Yamaha SRT in the overall standings. Morbidelli will also have a spring in his step after the Italian finished first at last week's Valencia Grand Prix, where he crossed the line 0.093seconds ahead of Miller to claim his third win of the season. Rins was not far behind in fourth and his Suzuki team will be hoping to add a constructors' championship to their rider and team titles. It is all to play for with Ducati, given the two are level on points. Yamaha is mathematically in contention too, 13 points behind. "We're hoping to complete the triple crown, that would be absolutely incredible," said Suzuki manager Davide Brivio this week. Crutchlow brings an end this weekend to his career as a full-time rider, which has included 168 races in the premier class, his first coming in 2011. He achieved 19 podium finishes in total and three race victories. Dovizioso will ride for the final time before taking a break in 2021 while Espargaro is heading to Red Bull KTM Factory Racing next term. Miller will switch to Ducati Team from Pramac, with Zarco of Esponsorama Racing replacing him. Petrucci will swap Ducati for Red Bull KTM Tech 3.

'Special moment' as Rossi set for emotional farewell in MotoGP finale

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