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Djokovic defeated as injury concerns grow

Novak Djokovic suffered his first defeat on Australian soil in nearly six years today with concerns surrounding his right wrist starting to grow.

The Serbian world number one was beaten 6-4 6-4 by home favourite Alex De Minaur in the United Cup in Perth but it’s his fitness that will give him greater cause for concern just 11 days out from the season’s first major – the Australian Open in Melbourne, an event he has won 10 times.

Read our other sports news stories here:
Nadal makes winning return
Manchester United transfer rumours
Humphries v Littler – preview and prediction

Djokovic received treatment on his wrist in his previous match, against Jiri Lehecka yesterday, and twice had to call for the trainer against De Minaur.

The defeat ended Djokovic’s 43-match winning run Down Under and was his first loss since losing to Hyeon Chung in the Australian Open quarter-finals in 2018.

For De Minaur, it was sweet revenge having mustered just five games against Djokovic in a humbling encounter at Melbourne Park 12 months ago.

He said: “It’s extra special. Novak is an unbelievable competitor and what he’s done for the sport is pretty special. It feels surreal, amazing, and I’m very happy to do it here in Perth and Australia.

“When you go up against Novak you have to go out and enjoy it and back yourself and no matter what keep fighting until the end. Today was my day and I’m happy that I was able to get the win.”

The world number 12 added: “I’m here to prove a lot of people wrong and to try and get better.

“Ultimately I won’t be the biggest or the strongest. I will show I have variety in my game and I’m glad I could bring this level today.”

Manchester United transfer rumours: Bayern’s Choupo-Moting linked with Old Trafford move

With the January window now open, the transfer rumours have started to swirl.

Manchester United aren’t expected to be busy after spending heavily over the summer but the arrival of Jim Ratcliffe as co-owner has added an element of uncertainty to the club’s transfer plans.

Will he want to make a statement signing to show the fans he means business?

Read our other sports news stories here:
Nadal makes winning return
Birmingham sack Rooney
Humphries v Littler – preview and prediction

Here, we round-up the latest gossip surrounding potential ins and outs at Old Trafford this month.

INS

Crystal Palace’s Michael Olise is a reported target of Erik ten Hag. The 22-year-old signed a new, four-year deal at Selhurst Park over the summer but it is believed the contract contained a release clause that United will look to activate over the summer. (Evening Standard)

United are believed to be interested in a short-term fix to their striker problem. Rasmus Hojlund finally broke his Premier League duck against Aston Villa on Boxing Day but there is little back-up for the young Dane in the number nine position. Rather than spend big in January, United are considering a short-term deal with Bayern Munich’s Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting top of their list while they are also thought to have watched his team-mate Thomas Muller. Former Chelsea flop Timo Werner, now back at RB Leipzig, is another supposedly on their wishlist. (The Athletic)

Atalanta midfielder Ederson is being considered by United. The 24-year-old has impressed in Serie A this season and would add some athleticism to the midfield. (Goal)

OUTS

It was reported yesterday that RB Leipzig had joined the race for United outcast Jadon Sancho. The England winger is currently ostracised from first-team activities following a public falling out with Ten Hag and is eager to move on. A return to Borussia Dortmund has long been mooted and the German club have stepped up their efforts to sign Sancho on loan. (The Guardian)

Young striker Joe Hugill is set to continue his footballing education with a January loan move. A host of EFL clubs are keen to sign the former Sunderland man, who has previously enjoyed a short-term stint at nearby Altrincham. (The 72)

Rafael Varane will leave United when his contract expires at the end of the season. However, any thought of a January return to former club Real Madrid has been dismissed by Carlo Ancelotti, who says the Spanish giants aren’t in the market for a centre-half this month. (Various)

Four transactions complete at City Tower

Schroders Capital’s real estate asset management team has secured four new lettings at historic Manchester landmark, City Tower.

Specialist healthcare recruitment business Linq HC, Match Me Car Finance, and debt purchase firm Perch Group have joined relocated recruitment agency Talentia in deals totalling more than 6,400 sq ft.

Linq HC has taken a 2,759 sq ft suite on the 22nd floor, having outgrown a 1,200 sq ft space at One Express Building.

Meanwhile, Match Me Car Finance has taken 25 workstations across the 12th floor, securing its second space in Manchester City Centre just this year, in order to support its significant growth plans.

Additionally, Perch Group, one of the fastest growing and most ambitious debt purchase, collections, litigation, and reconnection firms in the UK, has secured a 1,330 sq ft space on the 26th floor, taking over from Talentia, which has relocated to a larger floorplate within the building.

OBI, Cushman & Wakefield and JLL advised on the transactions on behalf of the building’s owners, the Schroders Capital UK Real Estate Fund (SCREF), the Schroders Capital Real Estate Investment Trust (SREIT), and Zurich Immobilien Europa Direkt (IED).

Thriving community

Paul Mills, transactions & asset management at OBI, said: “City Tower has a diverse and thriving community and these new tenants are no exception. As we prepare to enter a new era at City Tower, we have great pleasure to welcome new businesses to the building alongside helping them to fulfil individual needs and growth plans.”

Rob Cosslett, fund manager for Schroders Capital, said: “This recent run of leasing activity at City Tower showcases the continued demand for high-quality workspace in prime locations across Manchester. These new arrivals are testament to our expert offices team who have drawn upon their experience of attracting strong occupiers to our portfolio of assets across the UK, helping us deliver robust returns for our investors.”

Jo Reid at Linq HC, said: “As Linq HC has experienced significant growth from two to 28 employees over the last three years, we wanted a building that could accommodate our future growth plans.”

Guy Walker, CEO at Talentia Group, said: “As existing tenants of City Tower, we decided that as part of the long-term investment strategy into Manchester and its surround areas, it would be best for us to upgrade our space to accommodate our growth plans.

“City Tower were incredibly flexible, proactive, and supportive in this move for us.”

Callum Walsh, managing director at Match Me Car Finance, said: “We are delighted to have opened our second office in Manchester. After exploring several office spaces, I was shown City Tower and knew straight away that this was the perfect place to continue on our journey of growth given its central location and the flexibility of taking more space when required.

“We have grown from approximately 40 employees to 75 within a year with plans to grow by a further 50 employees in 2024. Our teams are very happy with their new work home and we are excited for our future at City Tower.”

eCommerce payment services: a catalyst for customer trust and loyalty

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The landscape of business transactions has been significantly altered by the advent of eCommerce, with payment services playing an important role in this digital realm.

The critical importance of payment services in enhancing customer trust and fostering loyalty is undeniable. The ease and reliability of these services not only improve transaction efficiency but also contribute to an enhanced user experience, directly influencing customers’ trust levels and loyalty to online entities.

In this paradigm shift towards digital commerce, it is crucial to delve deeper into how various facets of payment services impact customer behaviour patterns, particularly in terms of trust and loyalty.

Let’s examine diverse aspects such as the use of advanced technology in offering seamless payment experiences, the significance of data privacy compliance, and the influence exerted by rewarding loyalty programs.

By scrutinising these components meticulously, valuable insights are provided into how innovative and secure payment solutions can act as catalysts for building enduring relationships with customers in eCommerce settings.

The vital role of payment services

Payment services in eCommerce play a paramount role, facilitating transactions and significantly influencing customer trust and loyalty towards online retailers. The simplicity, convenience, and accessibility of these services determine the ease with which a customer can complete an online purchase.

This efficiency impacts the customers’ overall shopping experience and their perception of the online retailer’s reliability. It’s clear, then, that payment services aren’t merely transactional tools but also crucial elements that shape customers’ attitudes towards eCommerce platforms.

Additionally, payment services play a crucial role in ensuring security during online transactions. They incorporate various security measures such as encryption technologies, multi-factor authentication methods, and fraud monitoring systems to safeguard user data and financial information against potential threats. These features provide assurance to customers about the safety of their personal and financial information while transacting on eCommerce platforms. Secure payment services can enhance customer trust in an online retailer, thereby increasing their willingness to engage in future transactions.

Moreover, the adaptability of payment services to evolving technological advancements and changing consumer preferences plays a vital part in maintaining customer loyalty. Offering multiple payment options, including credit/debit card payments, digital wallets, or mobile payments, enables eCommerce platforms to cater to a wider audience with varied preferences, improving customer satisfaction levels.

Integrating innovative features like one-click checkout or contactless payments enhances user convenience, fostering loyalty among existing customers while attracting new ones. It’s imperative for eCommerce platforms to continually invest in optimising their payment service offerings as it directly correlates with establishing long-term relationships with their customers based on mutual trust and satisfaction.

Building trust through seamless payment experiences

In navigating the complex dynamics of online transactions, a well-structured checkout process serves as a powerful tool for reinforcing consumer confidence and fostering enduring brand allegiance. In an era where consumers are inundated with choices and alternatives, ensuring that payment experiences are seamless and intuitive is critical.

By streamlining the payment process, eCommerce platforms not only reduce the cognitive load on consumers but also create trust through familiarity and predictability. This encourages repeated patronage as customers find comfort in the knowledge that their transactions will be processed efficiently without unexpected hitches.

Transparent fee structures further contribute to building trust through payment experiences. Consumers value transparency and honesty when it comes to financial dealings. Hidden charges or complicated fee structures often lead to mistrust, dissatisfaction, and ultimately, loss of loyalty towards a brand or company. eCommerce platforms that adopt clear pricing policies ensure customers understand exactly what they’re paying for, reducing potential confusion or dissatisfaction during the payment process.

This sense of security fostered by seamless checkout processes and transparent fee structures has profound implications for customer loyalty in eCommerce settings. Trust serves as the foundation of customer relationships – businesses must prioritise creating an environment where customers feel safe conducting transactions. Investing time and resources into optimising online payment services can translate into greater customer retention rates, recurring revenue streams, higher lifetime value per customer, and overall improved business performance.

Loyalty programs and incentives

Incentivizing online purchases through meticulously crafted loyalty programs presents a compelling strategy for businesses seeking to enhance consumer retention and stimulate repeated patronage.

These programs often involve rewards or discounts that are exclusive to customers using specific payment services, directly linking the act of purchase with a tangible benefit. Such incentives can serve multiple purposes: they not only encourage consumers to engage in transactions but also help build trust by demonstrating consistent value addition through their chosen payment method.

Furthermore, these loyalty programs and incentives can be instrumental in fostering positive associations with eCommerce platforms. The offered benefits could range from cash backs, discounts on subsequent purchases, point accumulation redeemable in future transactions, or even partner deals such as access to premium content or services at reduced rates. By providing these advantages exclusively via designated payment services, eCommerce businesses effectively promote customer loyalty built around their preferred transaction methods.

The impact of this approach extends beyond immediate financial savings for consumers – it also enhances customer trust and fosters long-term relationships. When customers perceive that they consistently receive added value from an eCommerce platform – either by saving money through discounts or earning rewards – their likelihood of continually choosing the same platform naturally increases.

Also, the element of exclusivity attached to specific payment services amplifies this effect further as customers gain an additional sense of belonging and appreciation for being rewarded specifically for their loyalty towards a particular service. As a result, well-structured loyalty programs tied to certain payment services have proven effective in reinforcing customer trust and promoting sustained engagement in the eCommerce sphere.

Innovations in payment services

Pioneering advancements in transaction methods continue to revolutionise the digital marketplace, often providing enhanced convenience and security for end-users. Innovations such as blockchain technologies and digital wallets have transformed payment services in eCommerce, offering a secure and efficient mode of transaction that enhances customer trust.

The integration of these technologies into eCommerce platforms has not only streamlined online transactions but also fortified them against potential security threats. This development has been instrumental in fostering consumer confidence in online shopping.

Payment innovations also play a pivotal role in integrating social commerce with eCommerce platforms, thereby increasing their reach and influence on customers’ purchasing decisions. Social media platforms are increasingly incorporating payment features like digital wallets into their systems, allowing users to make purchases without leaving the platform. This seamless integration provides enticing convenience that enhances user experience while simultaneously creating opportunities for businesses to increase sales volume.

What is more, these innovations have contributed significantly towards fostering customer loyalty, which is crucial for any business’ long-term success. By offering various incentives such as discounts or cashback through digital wallets, businesses can retain their customers more effectively by rewarding their loyalty directly within the platform itself. The ease of use coupled with tangible rewards significantly improves customer satisfaction levels and encourages repeat patronage – vital aspects contributing to building enduring relationships between customers and businesses in an increasingly competitive eCommerce landscape.

Data privacy and compliance

The advent of technological advances in the digital marketplace has heightened the importance of data privacy and compliance with regulatory standards. The eCommerce sector, in particular, has experienced an increase in data breaches, resulting in a significant loss of customer trust and loyalty. As organisations rely heavily on innovative payment services to facilitate transactions, it’s crucial that these platforms uphold strict security measures to protect sensitive user information. Moreover, adherence to regulatory standards not only mitigates risk but also boosts consumer confidence in using electronic payment methods.

In view of this, a multitude of eCommerce businesses are prioritising the implementation of robust data protection strategies alongside their payment services. These strategies are designed to safeguard personal identifying information (PII) and financial data from cyber threats such as hacking, phishing scams, and identity theft. Moreover, compliance with regulatory standards like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) ensures that companies follow best practices for data privacy and protection – reinforcing customer trust.

Payment service providers must also demonstrate transparency regarding their use and handling of customer information. This includes disclosing how data is collected, stored, shared, or utilised within their operations. By providing customers with comprehensive insights into their privacy practices and demonstrating compliance with established regulations, businesses can cultivate an environment for building enduring consumer trust and loyalty. This commitment towards ensuring privacy further highlights the value placed on maintaining strong customer relationships integral for sustained growth within eCommerce environments.

 

South Africa v India, 2nd Test: preview, expected line-ups, how to watch and prediction

The State of Play

India head into the second Test in Cape Town 1-0 down and needing a win to salvage a draw from the two-game series.

The tourists were comprehensively outplayed at Centurion – slumping to an innings defeat inside three days – and head to Newlands looking to register their first win in seven attempts.

Read our other sports news stories here:
Nadal makes winning return
Birmingham sack Rooney
Manchester United transfer rumours

To do so, they will need to improve in every facet of the game. Their batting looked surprisingly fragile in the first Test with only KL Rahul and Virat Kohli offering any resistance.

Their bowling was also ineffective with Shardul Thakur and Prasidh Krishna not taking their opportunity to back up opening pair Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj.

For South Africa, this match is all about Dean Elgar. The veteran opener will captain the Proteas in his final Test in the absence of the injured Temba Bavuma.

Elgar starred in the game at Centurion with a brilliant 185 that set the platform for South Africa’s win.

Team News

The Proteas have a couple of notable absentees with captain Bavuma joined on the sidelines by all-rounder Gerald Coetzee.

Zubayr Hamza is likely to deputise for Bavuma after impressing for the A and Lions sides while Coetzee’s replacement will be either Lungi Ngidi or Keshav Maharaj. Ngidi will get the nod if he proves his body can stand the rigours of Test match cricket.

India have a full complement of players to choose from and should stick with Thakur and Krishna despite their struggles last week.

Expected line-ups

South Africa: Elgar (c), Markram, De Zorzi, Petersen, Hamza, Bedingham, Verreynne (wk), Jansen, Ngidi, Rabada, Burger

India: Sharma (c), Jaiswal, Gill, Kohli, Iyer, Rahul (wk), Jadeja, Thakur, Bumrah, Siraj, Krishna

What they said

Dean Elgar on captaining South Africa in his final Test
“I only play the game to win. I don’t care about stats. I care about wins. I care about series wins. That’s the greatest memories you can ever share with your team, everyone that has got an influential role in the background. Test series wins – you don’t top that. Maybe a World Cup win is up there. I have never had that opportunity but this is my World Cup. This is my arena where I want to win.”

Rohit Sharma on India’s selection conundrum
“Although we’ve had a brief chat with the management, the coaching staff about what we want from this game, and what we want from the bowlers in this game, we’ve not completely finalised our playing XI. Everyone is available for selection. There’s no injury concerns. All of them who are here are available to play. We’ll sit down in the evening and decide what is the right one.”

When and how to watch

The second Test takes place at Newlands in Cape Town. The match can be watched from 7am tomorrow on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Cricket.

Prediction

India visibly struggled with the conditions at Centurion and the Newlands groundsman won’t stray too far from another fast, bouncy wicket. The tourists will offer more resistance but expect the Proteas to mark Elgar’s departure by avoiding defeat and securing a series win.

Euro 2024 frontrunners: Assessing the top five contenders in the betting

As the anticipation builds for Euro 2024, with the prestigious tournament set to unfold in Germany next summer, football enthusiasts alike are closely eyeing the top contenders vying for continental glory.

The Euro 2024 winner betting odds have already been released, unveiling the leading nations poised to make a significant impact on the tournament.

Let’s delve into the top five favourites and examine what makes them stand out in the race for the Euro 2024 title.

England (3/1)

Leading the pack with odds of 3/1, Gareth Southgate’s England enter Euro 2024 with the weight of expectations on their shoulders.

The Three Lions had their hearts broken when Italy denied them their first European Championship success on penalties at Wembley three years ago.

However, Southgate has a well-balanced and talented squad featuring seasoned veterans and emerging stars.

Managerial know-how coupled with the players and fans’ hunger for success positions England as formidable contenders.

France (4/1)

2022 World Cup finalists, France enter Euro 2024 with odds of 4/1 and will be eager to add another major trophy to their collection.

Despite a surprising exit to Switzerland in the Euro 2020 Round of 16, the squad boasts an enviable blend of skill, experience and world-class exuberance — which saw them only narrowly miss out on the World Cup last year.

Under the guidance of a tactically astute coach in the form of Didier Deschamps, Les Bleusremain a force to be reckoned with on the international stage.

Germany (6/1)

As the host nation, Germany carry the hopes and expectations of its passionate footballing country into Euro 2024.

Priced at 6/1, the Germans possess a rich footballing heritage and a team known for resilience and efficiency.

They have a massive point to prove after early exits at Euro 2020 (Round of 16) and the 2022 World Cup (group stage).

However, with a blend of seasoned campaigners and emerging talents, Julian Nagelsmann’sside can potentially leverage the home advantage to secure another European title.

Spain (7/1)

Spain, renowned for their iconic tiki-taka style that saw them win two European Championships in a row (2008 and 2012) and the 2010 World Cup, enter Euro 2024 with odds of 7/1.

The fact they won the 2023 Nations League may be an indication that their transitional period is coming to an end, and Spain continue to showcase technical prowess and a commitment to possession-based football.

With a mix of established stars and rising talents, La Roja aim to recapture the Euro success that saw them clinch those aforementioned titles.

Portugal (8/1)

Still led by the indomitable Cristiano Ronaldo, 2016 European Champions Portugal are heading to Germany with odds of 8/1.

As well as Ronaldo, Portugal boast an array of top-class talent — including Ruben Dias, Joao Cancelo, Benardo Silva, Bruno Fernandes and Joao Felix — so, they have a more-than-capable squad.

That, paired with Ronaldo’s constant hunger for success, positions Portugal as genuine contenders to reclaim their European crown from Italy.

While these odds provide a snapshot of the pre-tournament expectations, football is a sport known for its unpredictability and capacity for surprises.

As Euro 2024 approaches, fans can look forward to witnessing captivating matches and memorable moments as these top five nations vie for supremacy on the grand stage of European football.

The stage is set and the excitement is palpable, as we await the kickoff of Euro 2024 in Germany next summer.

Nadal sees off Thiem in emotional return in Brisbane

Rafael Nadal made a winning return to singles action today with a straight-sets victory over Dominic Thiem at the Brisbane International.

The Spaniard has not played an ATP event since injuring his left-hip flexor – he underwent surgery on the joint in the summer of 2023 – in a second-round defeat to Mackenzie McDonald at the Australian Open last January.

Read our other sports news stories here:
Warner wants his Baggy Green back
Birmingham sack Rooney
Manchester United transfer rumours

The 22-time grand slam champion looked sharp against Austrian Thiem, a former world number three whose career has also been derailed by injury, and emerged an impressive 7-5 6-1 winner.

“Today is honestly an emotional and important day for me after probably one of the toughest years of my tennis career,” Nadal said.

“I had the chance to come back after a year and play in front of an amazing crowd and play at a very positive level on the first day is something that makes us feel proud – my team and family who have been there every day in the last year.”

After a tight first set, Nadal ran through the second by claiming two breaks of serve to set up a second-round clash with home-town favourite Jason Kubler.

The 37-year-old Nadal added: “The first set was equal, with both of us serving well and more or less winning on serve.

“I was able to have that break at 6-5, so that makes the difference. I know Dominic has gone through some hard times with injuries too, so I’m happy to see him on court and I wish him the very best for the season.”

Birmingham sack Wayne Rooney

Wayne Rooney has been sacked as Birmingham City boss after a disastrous 15-game spell.

The former Manchester United forward was brought in to replace John Eustace in October with the Blues then sixth in the Championship having made an impressive start to the season.

Read our other sports news stories here:
Warner wants his Baggy Green back
Hojlund explains relief after breaking Premier League duck
Manchester United transfer rumours

He leaves with the club in 20th place, just two above the relegation zone, following a 3-0 defeat at Leeds on New Year’s Day which saw the Birmingham fans chant their desire for Rooney to “get out of their club”.

Wins over Sheffield Wednesday and Cardiff were the only bright spots as Rooney’s brief to play “no fear football” failed to materialise.

A club statement read: “Birmingham City has today parted company with manager, Wayne Rooney, and first-team coach Carl Robinson.

“Despite their best efforts, results have not met the expectations that were made clear at the outset. Therefore, the board feels that a change in management is in the best interests of the football club.

“The club’s board and management are fully aligned and will continue to drive transformation and take bold steps to rebuild Birmingham City into the organisation its fans and community deserve.

“The board would like to place on record their sincere thanks to Wayne and Carl for all of their efforts.”

Chief executive officer Garry Cook added: “We are committed to doing what is necessary to bring success to St. Andrew’s.

“Unfortunately, Wayne’s time with us did not go as planned and we have decided to move in a different direction.

“The search for a successor begins with immediate effect and we will update supporters when we have further news.”

The move leaves Rooney’s coaching future in question. He did a decent job at Derby County under difficult circumstances before moving to DC United where he again showed signs of promise before quitting following the franchise’s failure to make the 2023 MLS play-offs.

Eustace will be among the leading candidates to replace Rooney although co-owner Tom Wagner may reprise his desire to see a big name in charge and look elsewhere.

The club’s professional development coach Steve Spooner will take charge on an interim basis.

Manchester United transfer rumours: is Joshua Kimmich heading to Old Trafford?

The arrival of Jim Ratcliffe at Manchester United has fuelled speculation Erik ten Hag will be given funds to strengthen his squad in January.

Although the club are limited in what they can do given their significant spending last summer, there may be wiggle room for a couple of shrewd purchases should the right players become available.

Read our other sports news stories here:
Warner wants his Baggy Green back
Hojlund explains relief after breaking Premier League duck
Walker tells Foden to stay grounded after Everton display

Here, we round up the latest rumours regarding potential ins and outs at Old Trafford:

INS

United are keeping tabs on Bayern Munich midfielder Joshua Kimmich. The Germany international’s contract expires at the end of next season and Bayern are desperate not to lose him on a free transfer. A potential summer switch seems more likely with United, Liverpool and Barcelona all interested. (AS)

Chelsea have entered the race for Nice centre-half Jean-Clair Todibo. United have been linked with the 24-year-old as they look to overhaul their defensive options with Rafael Varane reportedly set to leave the club when his contract expires at the end of the season. (Teamtalk)

United have been linked with another French centre-half in Leny Yoro. The 18-year-old, who is also reportedly interesting Manchester City, is a France Under-21 international. (Le10Sport)

Reports in Italy suggest United are keeping a close eye on Atalanta defender Giorgio Scalvini. The 20-year-old centre-half has emerged as a key player under Gian Piero Gasperini and would command a fee in the region of 40 million euros. (Tuttosport)

OUTS

Atletico Madrid have made contact with United regarding the availability of forward Mason Greenwood. The England international is spending the remainder of this season on loan at Getafe following allegations made against him were dropped in February 2023. (Marca)

RB Leipzig have reportedly joined Borussia Dortmund in trying to lure Jadon Sancho back to the Bundesliga. Sancho remains ostracised following his falling-out with Ten Hag and a January loan move could suit both club and player. (Telegraph)

Australia opener Warner wants Baggy Green back

David Warner has pleaded for the safe return of his baggy green Australia cap which has gone missing.

The hat was in a backpack that was being shipped from Melbourne to Sydney ahead of the final Test against Pakistan, Warner’s last in that format of the game, which starts on Wednesday.

The veteran opener has taken to social media to request it is returned so he can wear it at the SCG.

 

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A POST SHARED BY DAVID WARNER (@DAVIDWARNER31)

“This is my last resort to do this,” Warner said.

“A couple of days ago, our bags got freighted via Qantas. We’ve gone through CCTV footage, they’ve got some blind spots apparently, we spoke to the Quay West Hotel who we absolutely trust and have gone through their cameras, no one’s come into our rooms.

“But unfortunately, someone has taken my backpack out of my actual luggage, which had my backpack and my girls’ presents in there, inside this backpack was my baggy green.

“It’s sentimental to me, it’s something I would love to have back in my hands walking out there come this week. If it is the backpack you really wanted, I have a spare one here, you won’t get into trouble.

“Please reach out to Cricket Australia or myself via my social media and I’m happy to give this [another backpack] to you if you return my baggy greens.”

Warner announced yesterday he would be stepping down from one-day international cricket following Australia’s World Cup triumph in India in November, but he will still represent his country in the T20 format.