FIFA on Monday relaxed the rules on the release of players for the upcoming international window "in light of the recent evolution of the coronavirus pandemic".

Clubs are usually obliged to release players to national teams during those parts of the calendar reserved for international games, however quarantine rules in many countries will make travel impractical, FIFA said in a statement.

"Many national governments have again implemented travel and immigration restrictions due to a renewed increase in COVID-19 infections. Some of these measures directly impact international competition, such as mandatory periods of quarantine or self-isolation and travel restrictions," the statement explained.&nbsp;

Clubs will not &nbsp;be obliged to release their players if there is a mandatory quarantine in the country where the club is based,in the country where the international will take place or there are travel restrictions between the two locations and there are no specific exemptions for the players.&nbsp;

The ruling applies to the men's international window from August 31 to September 8 and the women's window from September 14-22.

FIFA had already decided that internationals in those slots &nbsp;could only take place in Europe.&nbsp;

FIFA on Monday relaxed the rules on the release of players for the upcoming international window "in light of the recent evolution of the coronavirus pandemic". Clubs are usually obliged to release players to national teams during those parts of the calendar reserved for international games, however quarantine rules in many countries will make travel impractical, FIFA said in a statement.

FIFA on Monday relaxed the rules on the release of players for the upcoming international window "in light of the recent evolution of the coronavirus pandemic". Clubs are usually obliged to release players to national teams during those parts of the calendar reserved for international games, however quarantine rules in many countries will make travel impractical, FIFA said in a statement. "Many national governments have again implemented travel and immigration restrictions due to a renewed increase in COVID-19 infections. Some of these measures directly impact international competition, such as mandatory periods of quarantine or self-isolation and travel restrictions," the statement explained. Clubs will not be obliged to release their players if there is a mandatory quarantine in the country where the club is based,in the country where the international will take place or there are travel restrictions between the two locations and there are no specific exemptions for the players. The ruling applies to the men's international window from August 31 to September 8 and the women's window from September 14-22. FIFA had already decided that internationals in those slots could only take place in Europe.

FIFA relaxes rules on release of players for internationals

Fourth-seeded Naomi Osaka of Japan battled back to beat Karolina Muchova 6-7 (5/7), 6-4, 6-2 on Monday and reach the third round of the Western &amp; Southern Open.

Osaka, ranked 10th in the world, was playing her first match since the WTA resumed after a coronavirus hiatus.

The tournament was moved this year from Cincinnati to the National Tennis Center in New York to allow players to enter the same quarantine bubble that will be in effect for the US Open starting on August 31.

Osaka will face another tough challenge in the third round against 16th-seeded Ukrainian Dayana Yastremska, who beat American Bernarda Pera 7-6 (7/5), 4-6, 6-3 on Monday after downing seven-time Grand Slam champion Venus Williams in the first round.

Fourth-seeded Naomi Osaka of Japan battled back to beat Karolina Muchova 6-7 (5/7), 6-4, 6-2 on Monday and reach the third round of the Western & Southern Open. Osaka, ranked 10th in the world, was playing her first match since the WTA resumed after a coronavirus hiatus.

Fourth-seeded Naomi Osaka of Japan battled back to beat Karolina Muchova 6-7 (5/7), 6-4, 6-2 on Monday and reach the third round of the Western & Southern Open. Osaka, ranked 10th in the world, was playing her first match since the WTA resumed after a coronavirus hiatus. The tournament was moved this year from Cincinnati to the National Tennis Center in New York to allow players to enter the same quarantine bubble that will be in effect for the US Open starting on August 31. Osaka will face another tough challenge in the third round against 16th-seeded Ukrainian Dayana Yastremska, who beat American Bernarda Pera 7-6 (7/5), 4-6, 6-3 on Monday after downing seven-time Grand Slam champion Venus Williams in the first round.

Osaka rallies to reach third round of 'Cincy in New York'

World number one Novak Djokovic shook off neck pain to beat Ricardas Berankis 7-6 (7/2), 6-4 on Monday to reach the third round of the Western &amp; Southern Open.

The Serb star had pulled out of doubles on Sunday with pain in his neck, and he had treatment during the match for a problem that seemed to bother him when he looked up at his service toss.

Twice down a break in the second set he was able to immediately break back both times, and he let out a roar when he broke Lithuania's Berankis for a 5-4 lead before calmly serving out the match.

In the round of 16 on Tuesday, Djokovic will face American Tennys Sandgren, a 6-7 (4/7), 6-2, 7-6 (7/5) winner over 15th-seeded Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime in this tournament moved from Cincinnati to New York and the same quarantine bubble that will house the US Open starting on August 31.

World number one Novak Djokovic shook off neck pain to beat Ricardas Berankis 7-6 (7/2), 6-4 on Monday to reach the third round of the Western & Southern Open. The Serb star had pulled out of doubles on Sunday with pain in his neck, and he had treatment during the match for a problem that seemed to bother him when he looked up at his service toss.

World number one Novak Djokovic shook off neck pain to beat Ricardas Berankis 7-6 (7/2), 6-4 on Monday to reach the third round of the Western & Southern Open. The Serb star had pulled out of doubles on Sunday with pain in his neck, and he had treatment during the match for a problem that seemed to bother him when he looked up at his service toss. Twice down a break in the second set he was able to immediately break back both times, and he let out a roar when he broke Lithuania's Berankis for a 5-4 lead before calmly serving out the match. In the round of 16 on Tuesday, Djokovic will face American Tennys Sandgren, a 6-7 (4/7), 6-2, 7-6 (7/5) winner over 15th-seeded Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime in this tournament moved from Cincinnati to New York and the same quarantine bubble that will house the US Open starting on August 31.

Djokovic shrugs off injury to win NY opener

James Anderson on Tuesday became the first fast bowler and fourth bowler overall to pick up 600 Test wickets after the veteran England seamer dismissed Pakistan captain Azhar Ali to achieve the landmark at the Rose Bowl in Southampton.&nbsp;

Others in the list to have picked up 600 Test wickets or more are: Muttiah Muralitharan (800), Shane Warne (708) and Anil Kumble (619)

Anderson, who scalped a fifer in the first innings of the ongoing third Test against Pakistan, had to wait long for his 600th Test wicket after rain gods disrupted the flow of the game on Day 4 and aided to delayed start on Day 5 of the game.&nbsp;

<img alt="James Anderson" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="39ddf1b0-c9de-4f38-b727-4f75f6c9a4ef" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1WQ87B.jpg" />

<h2>James Anderson in Test cricket:</h2>

<ul>
	<li>100th Wicket – Kallis</li>
	<li>200th Wicket - Siddle</li>
	<li>300th Wicket - Fulton</li>
	<li>400th Wicket - Guptill</li>
	<li>500th Wicket - Brathwaite</li>
	<li>600th Wicket - Azhar Ali*</li>
</ul>

However, it didn’t take long for Anderson to complete the historic achievement as the England pacer bowled a length delivery only for Ali to edge it straight to Joe Root in the slip cordon as the English skipper took a comfortable reverse cup.&nbsp;

<h2>600th Test victim of bowlers:</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Shane Warne - Marcus Trescothick in 2005</li>
	<li>Muralitharan - Khaled Mashud in 2006</li>
	<li>Anil Kumble - Andrew Symonds in 2008</li>
	<li>James Anderson - Azhar Ali in 2020</li>
</ul>

Anderson is regarded as one of the greatest pacers to have taken to the cricket field. While there may be some arguments that he hasn’t shine in sub-continents, statistics show he have turned around the theory since learning the trick of reverse swing after 2010.&nbsp;

<h2>Balls to 600th Test wicket &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</h2>

<ul>
	<li>33711 M Muralitharan</li>
	<li>33717 James Anderson</li>
	<li>34919 Shane Warne</li>
	<li>38496 Anil Kumble</li>
</ul>

The King of Swing has been a legendary servant for England cricket and have always lived up to the expectations and the latest achievement just prove how valuable Anderson has been to England and international cricket.&nbsp;

James Anderson on Tuesday became the first fast bowler and fourth bowler overall to pick up 600 Test wickets after the veteran England seamer dismissed Pakistan captain Azhar Ali to achieve the landmark at the Rose Bowl in Southampton.

James Anderson on Tuesday became the first fast bowler and fourth bowler overall to pick up 600 Test wickets after the veteran England seamer dismissed Pakistan captain Azhar Ali to achieve the landmark at the Rose Bowl in Southampton. Others in the list to have picked up 600 Test wickets or more are: Muttiah Muralitharan (800), Shane Warne (708) and Anil Kumble (619) Anderson, who scalped a fifer in the first innings of the ongoing third Test against Pakistan, had to wait long for his 600th Test wicket after rain gods disrupted the flow of the game on Day 4 and aided to delayed start on Day 5 of the game. James Anderson in Test cricket: 100th Wicket – Kallis 200th Wicket - Siddle 300th Wicket - Fulton 400th Wicket - Guptill 500th Wicket - Brathwaite 600th Wicket - Azhar Ali* However, it didn’t take long for Anderson to complete the historic achievement as the England pacer bowled a length delivery only for Ali to edge it straight to Joe Root in the slip cordon as the English skipper took a comfortable reverse cup. 600th Test victim of bowlers: Shane Warne - Marcus Trescothick in 2005 Muralitharan - Khaled Mashud in 2006 Anil Kumble - Andrew Symonds in 2008 James Anderson - Azhar Ali in 2020 Anderson is regarded as one of the greatest pacers to have taken to the cricket field. While there may be some arguments that he hasn’t shine in sub-continents, statistics show he have turned around the theory since learning the trick of reverse swing after 2010. Balls to 600th Test wicket 33711 M Muralitharan 33717 James Anderson 34919 Shane Warne 38496 Anil Kumble The King of Swing has been a legendary servant for England cricket and have always lived up to the expectations and the latest achievement just prove how valuable Anderson has been to England and international cricket.

James Anderson becomes first pacer and fourth bowler to scalp 600 Test wickets

Australian spin legend Shane Warne has given an interesting suggestion to prolong James Anderson’s career by saying England should turn the right-arm seamer into a coach during away tours while playing him in home matches.&nbsp;

Anderson, who is at 599 Test wickets, is just a scalp away from becoming the fourth bowler to bag 600 Test wickets and the first pacer to the milestone but many have been talking about how long he can resist at the highest level.&nbsp;

Warne, who has 708 Test wickets to his name, is among the three men to go past the 600-Test wickets milestone and suggested that there might be a way to protect the legend of Anderson.&nbsp;

"Watching Jimmy [James Anderson], he's a class act. I'm interested to see how things pan out now he's 38," Shane Warne told Sky Sports.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tendulkar-comes-to-aid-of-ailing-ashraf-who-once-fixed-his-bats-323024" hreflang="en">Tendulkar comes to aid of ailing Ashraf who once fixed his bats</a>

Terming Anderson as "unplayable" in English conditions, Warne suggested, “You want Jimmy to play as long as he possibly can, so is there a way he could be bowling coach away from home? Then, in England, you say 'we want you to play for another three or four years.

"If you're picking your side here [in England], Anderson is your first pencilled in. Is he your first pencilled in overseas? I'm not sure.”

"How do you prolong his career? Is it to not play away and only in England? Or is it he's so good, you want him for every Test you play anywhere.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-mens-cwc-challenge-league-a-postponed-323017" hreflang="en">ICC Men's CWC Challenge League A postponed</a>

"I'm not sure what the right thing is to do. Jimmy is probably the only one that can answer that,” Warne said.

On the much-talked-about topic of retirement, Warne, who retired from Test cricket in 2007 at the age of 37 said, “That's the best thing - to go out on top, when people think you can still play for longer. Because then they miss what you brought to the table, miss watching you play.

"If you play too long, people start saying, 'he should retire, he's not at his best'.” 
&nbsp;

Australian spin legend Shane Warne has given an interesting suggestion to prolong James Anderson’s career by saying England should turn the right-arm seamer into a coach during away tours while playing him in home matches.

Australian spin legend Shane Warne has given an interesting suggestion to prolong James Anderson’s career by saying England should turn the right-arm seamer into a coach during away tours while playing him in home matches. Anderson, who is at 599 Test wickets, is just a scalp away from becoming the fourth bowler to bag 600 Test wickets and the first pacer to the milestone but many have been talking about how long he can resist at the highest level. Warne, who has 708 Test wickets to his name, is among the three men to go past the 600-Test wickets milestone and suggested that there might be a way to protect the legend of Anderson. "Watching Jimmy [James Anderson], he's a class act. I'm interested to see how things pan out now he's 38," Shane Warne told Sky Sports. ALSO READ: Tendulkar comes to aid of ailing Ashraf who once fixed his bats Terming Anderson as "unplayable" in English conditions, Warne suggested, “You want Jimmy to play as long as he possibly can, so is there a way he could be bowling coach away from home? Then, in England, you say 'we want you to play for another three or four years. "If you're picking your side here [in England], Anderson is your first pencilled in. Is he your first pencilled in overseas? I'm not sure.” "How do you prolong his career? Is it to not play away and only in England? Or is it he's so good, you want him for every Test you play anywhere. ALSO READ: ICC Men's CWC Challenge League A postponed "I'm not sure what the right thing is to do. Jimmy is probably the only one that can answer that,” Warne said. On the much-talked-about topic of retirement, Warne, who retired from Test cricket in 2007 at the age of 37 said, “That's the best thing - to go out on top, when people think you can still play for longer. Because then they miss what you brought to the table, miss watching you play. "If you play too long, people start saying, 'he should retire, he's not at his best'.”

Player in England, bowling coach for away tour: Warne's suggestion to prolong Anderson's career

Fans will be back inside the stadiums as UEFA on Tuesday announced that Super Cup match between Bayern Munich and Sevilla, scheduled to be held in Budapest on September 24 won’t be played behind closed doors.

With all games in the recent <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/uefa-champions-league">Champions League</a> and Europa League final-stage mini-tournaments were held in front of empty stands, UEFA’s executive committee agreed to the idea of having 30 per cent of the 67,215 capacity Puskas Arena in Budapest can be allotted to the fans.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-2019-20-psg-become-the-most-tweeted-about-team-on-twitter-323003" hreflang="en">Champions League 2019-20: PSG become the most Tweeted about team on Twitter</a>

However, UEFA said that all other matches under the governing body, including the upcoming Nation League matches and club competition qualifiers, will continue to be held behind closed doors until further notice.

However, it is still unclear whether travelling supporters will be able to attend the UEFA Super Cup or only local fans will be allowed with the European body viewing the match as the best test for their ‘Return to Play’ plans.&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/bayern-munich-10-psg-uefa-champions-league-final-all-the-action-in-pictures-322813">Bayern Munich 1:0 PSG, UEFA Champions League Final: All the action in pictures</a>

“While it has been important to show that football can carry on in difficult times, without fans, the game has lost something of its character. We hope to use the UEFA Super Cup in Budapest as a pilot that will begin to see the return of fans to our matches,” said UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/harry-maguire-and-victor-lindelof-contrasting-tales-of-two-manchester-united-defenders-322998" hreflang="en">Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof: Contrasting tales of two Manchester United defenders</a>

“We are working closely with the Hungarian Federation and its government to implement measures to ensure the health of all those attending and participating in the game. We will not take risks with people’s safety,” he added.

The UEFA Super Cup is traditionally Europa’s international club season opener, featuring previous season’s Champions League winner against the Europa League winner. While Bayern Munich defeated PSG in the Champions League, Sevilla overcame Inter Milan to lift the Europa League.&nbsp;

Bayern Munich versus Sevilla is scheduled to be held in Budapest on September 24. 
&nbsp;

Fans will be back inside the stadiums as UEFA on Tuesday announced that Super Cup match between Bayern Munich and Sevilla, scheduled to be held in Budapest on September 24 won’t be played behind closed doors.

Fans will be back inside the stadiums as UEFA on Tuesday announced that Super Cup match between Bayern Munich and Sevilla, scheduled to be held in Budapest on September 24 won’t be played behind closed doors. With all games in the recent Champions League and Europa League final-stage mini-tournaments were held in front of empty stands, UEFA’s executive committee agreed to the idea of having 30 per cent of the 67,215 capacity Puskas Arena in Budapest can be allotted to the fans. ALSO READ: Champions League 2019-20: PSG become the most Tweeted about team on Twitter However, UEFA said that all other matches under the governing body, including the upcoming Nation League matches and club competition qualifiers, will continue to be held behind closed doors until further notice. However, it is still unclear whether travelling supporters will be able to attend the UEFA Super Cup or only local fans will be allowed with the European body viewing the match as the best test for their ‘Return to Play’ plans. IN PICS | Bayern Munich 1:0 PSG, UEFA Champions League Final: All the action in pictures “While it has been important to show that football can carry on in difficult times, without fans, the game has lost something of its character. We hope to use the UEFA Super Cup in Budapest as a pilot that will begin to see the return of fans to our matches,” said UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin. ALSO READ: Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof: Contrasting tales of two Manchester United defenders “We are working closely with the Hungarian Federation and its government to implement measures to ensure the health of all those attending and participating in the game. We will not take risks with people’s safety,” he added. The UEFA Super Cup is traditionally Europa’s international club season opener, featuring previous season’s Champions League winner against the Europa League winner. While Bayern Munich defeated PSG in the Champions League, Sevilla overcame Inter Milan to lift the Europa League. Bayern Munich versus Sevilla is scheduled to be held in Budapest on September 24.

Bayern Munich vs Sevilla: UEFA to allow fans to attend Super Cup in Budapest

Officials of BCCI's state units won't be able to attend "at least the beginning" of the IPL because of the strict bio-bubble in place for the tournament beginning September 19 in the UAE, board secretary Jay Shah informed the member associations on Tuesday.

Shah is confident that by the business end of the tournament, some of the travel restrictions will be relaxed, making it easier for members to travel to the UAE. The IPL final will be played on November 10.

BCCI inviting officials from its state units for the IPL ceremony and play-offs is conventional practice it follows, whether the tournament is held in India or abroad.

"While I am confident that we would be able to deliver a memorable tournament, I will be approaching the start of the tournament with a heavy heart as your absence would render the opening incomplete," BCCI secretary Shah wrote in an email to state units, which is in possession of PTI.

"As you are aware, the BCCI invites its former Office Bearers and the Presidents and Secretaries of all its state units to the IPL opening game and league matches as well as for the finals," Shah wrote.

The tournament is taking place in the UAE due to the COVID-19 situation in India and anyone part of the event needs to strictly adhere to the guidelines issued by the BCCI. At the moment, all teams are undergoing a mandatory six-day quarantine following their arrival last week.

"...Owing to some stringent restrictions on the movement of people and on account of the protocols put in place by us which includes the creation of several bio-secure bubbles to minimize the damage caused by COVID-19, we would not be able to have our annual gathering, at least at the beginning of the tournament," Shah wrote.

"The restriction on physical presence is the best way to avoid contracting and spreading the deadly virus and after a long-fought battle, this is yet another sacrifice that we are forced to make," the board secretary further wrote.

Shah made it clear that if situation improves in November, the members could be invited for the play-offs.

"I am hopeful that till the time we reach the playoff week, we would have more relaxations on travel and interactions, which would allow us to have you all travel to the UAE," Shah assured.

He agreed that IPL is also a forum for discussing all board related matters.

"Over the years, the IPL games have proved to be a fantastic platform for all of us to get together to witness some exhilarating cricket and also to exchange thoughts and ideas about the upcoming season and discuss matters related to the Board.

"However, as we take our first steps towards the resumption of cricket, let me assure you that we are pulling out all stops and making every effort to secure your presence for the crucial playoff stage of the IPL," Shah said.

Shah also thanked the members for pulling through in these tough times.

"Lastly, I wish to apprise you about the fact that we are aware of the difficulties that you are facing in these times and I assure you that all necessary steps would be taken by us in consultation with you, to alleviate those difficulties at the appropriate stage.

"The strength of the BCCI lies in its members and the matters of policy would only be firmed up with your inputs and upon the approval of the General Body," Shah concluded.&nbsp;

Officials of BCCI's state units won't be able to attend "at least the beginning" of the IPL because of the strict bio-bubble in place for the tournament beginning September 19 in the UAE, board secretary Jay Shah informed the member associations on Tuesday.

Officials of BCCI's state units won't be able to attend "at least the beginning" of the IPL because of the strict bio-bubble in place for the tournament beginning September 19 in the UAE, board secretary Jay Shah informed the member associations on Tuesday. Shah is confident that by the business end of the tournament, some of the travel restrictions will be relaxed, making it easier for members to travel to the UAE. The IPL final will be played on November 10. BCCI inviting officials from its state units for the IPL ceremony and play-offs is conventional practice it follows, whether the tournament is held in India or abroad. "While I am confident that we would be able to deliver a memorable tournament, I will be approaching the start of the tournament with a heavy heart as your absence would render the opening incomplete," BCCI secretary Shah wrote in an email to state units, which is in possession of PTI. "As you are aware, the BCCI invites its former Office Bearers and the Presidents and Secretaries of all its state units to the IPL opening game and league matches as well as for the finals," Shah wrote. The tournament is taking place in the UAE due to the COVID-19 situation in India and anyone part of the event needs to strictly adhere to the guidelines issued by the BCCI. At the moment, all teams are undergoing a mandatory six-day quarantine following their arrival last week. "...Owing to some stringent restrictions on the movement of people and on account of the protocols put in place by us which includes the creation of several bio-secure bubbles to minimize the damage caused by COVID-19, we would not be able to have our annual gathering, at least at the beginning of the tournament," Shah wrote. "The restriction on physical presence is the best way to avoid contracting and spreading the deadly virus and after a long-fought battle, this is yet another sacrifice that we are forced to make," the board secretary further wrote. Shah made it clear that if situation improves in November, the members could be invited for the play-offs. "I am hopeful that till the time we reach the playoff week, we would have more relaxations on travel and interactions, which would allow us to have you all travel to the UAE," Shah assured. He agreed that IPL is also a forum for discussing all board related matters. "Over the years, the IPL games have proved to be a fantastic platform for all of us to get together to witness some exhilarating cricket and also to exchange thoughts and ideas about the upcoming season and discuss matters related to the Board. "However, as we take our first steps towards the resumption of cricket, let me assure you that we are pulling out all stops and making every effort to secure your presence for the crucial playoff stage of the IPL," Shah said. Shah also thanked the members for pulling through in these tough times. "Lastly, I wish to apprise you about the fact that we are aware of the difficulties that you are facing in these times and I assure you that all necessary steps would be taken by us in consultation with you, to alleviate those difficulties at the appropriate stage. "The strength of the BCCI lies in its members and the matters of policy would only be firmed up with your inputs and upon the approval of the General Body," Shah concluded.

Due to bio-bubble restrictions, unable to invite you for start of IPL: Jay Shah to state units

Ashraf Chaudhary once fixed his damaged bats and now Sachin Tendulkar has taken it upon himself to help the ailing bat repairer who has been hospitalised for considerable amount of time.

"Ashraf Chacha" as he is known in cricketing circles, has been admitted to the Savla hospital since last 12 days due to diabetes and midzone pneumonia related complications.

The bat maker's close friend Prashant Jethmalani, told PTI on Tuesday, "Tendulkar came forward and has spoken to Ashraf Chacha. He has also helped him financially. A major chunk of the finances has been donated by the legendary batsman."

Ashraf has fixed bats of several noted cricketers including Tendulkar, Virat Kohli but fell on hard times due to COVID-19 as both health and business took a beating.

He is an ever-present figure inside the Wankhede stadium during international and IPL matches.

Even international players like Australian Steve Smith, West Indian Chris Gayle and Kieron Pollard have all hit sixes with bats mended by Ashraf Chacha.

The bat maker owns a shop M Ashraf Bro, which is situated at Dhobi Talao in South Mumbai and there have been times when he has repaired bats for free just for his love for the game and the players.

Ashraf Chaudhary once fixed his damaged bats and now Sachin Tendulkar has taken it upon himself to help the ailing bat repairer who has been hospitalised for considerable amount of time.

Ashraf Chaudhary once fixed his damaged bats and now Sachin Tendulkar has taken it upon himself to help the ailing bat repairer who has been hospitalised for considerable amount of time. "Ashraf Chacha" as he is known in cricketing circles, has been admitted to the Savla hospital since last 12 days due to diabetes and midzone pneumonia related complications. The bat maker's close friend Prashant Jethmalani, told PTI on Tuesday, "Tendulkar came forward and has spoken to Ashraf Chacha. He has also helped him financially. A major chunk of the finances has been donated by the legendary batsman." Ashraf has fixed bats of several noted cricketers including Tendulkar, Virat Kohli but fell on hard times due to COVID-19 as both health and business took a beating. He is an ever-present figure inside the Wankhede stadium during international and IPL matches. Even international players like Australian Steve Smith, West Indian Chris Gayle and Kieron Pollard have all hit sixes with bats mended by Ashraf Chacha. The bat maker owns a shop M Ashraf Bro, which is situated at Dhobi Talao in South Mumbai and there have been times when he has repaired bats for free just for his love for the game and the players.

Tendulkar comes to aid of ailing Ashraf who once fixed his bats

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday announced the postponement of the second event of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Challenge League A due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

The second of three Challenge League A events which form part of the pathway to the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 was rescheduled from March and was due to take place between 30 September and 10 October in Malaysia.

As part of the ICC’s comprehensive contingency planning process across all ICC events and after consultation with Members and with the relevant government and public health authorities, the decision has been taken to postpone the fixtures.

Canada, Denmark, Malaysia, Qatar, Singapore, Vanuatu were due to play 15 List A matches aiming to gain points and places in the Challenge League A table. Canada currently top the table ahead of Singapore on net run rate, with both teams on eight points. At the completion of the Challenge League A fixtures, the top team will qualify for the Men’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier Play-Off. For more information on qualifying for the Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 click here.

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ICC Head of Events, Chris Tetley said: “We have decided to postpone the second series of the ICC Men’s CWC Challenge League A that was due to take place in Malaysia next month. The ICC’s priority continues to be to protect the well-being of players, coaches, officials, fans and the whole cricket community. As a result of this we have fully assessed the situation in partnership with the Malaysia Cricket Association and participating Members with ongoing international travel restrictions, global health concerns still prominent and on government and public health authority advice in relation to COVID-19 we have decided to postpone the event.

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“With the additional time giving to us due to the rescheduling of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 to October and November of 2023, we will now work with hosts and participating Members to find an appropriate window where the qualification pathway fixtures can be safely and practically rescheduled.”

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday announced the postponement of the second event of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Challenge League A due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday announced the postponement of the second event of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Challenge League A due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The second of three Challenge League A events which form part of the pathway to the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 was rescheduled from March and was due to take place between 30 September and 10 October in Malaysia. As part of the ICC’s comprehensive contingency planning process across all ICC events and after consultation with Members and with the relevant government and public health authorities, the decision has been taken to postpone the fixtures. Canada, Denmark, Malaysia, Qatar, Singapore, Vanuatu were due to play 15 List A matches aiming to gain points and places in the Challenge League A table. Canada currently top the table ahead of Singapore on net run rate, with both teams on eight points. At the completion of the Challenge League A fixtures, the top team will qualify for the Men’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier Play-Off. For more information on qualifying for the Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 click here. ALSO READ: NADA plans to conduct 50 tests in IPL; Dhoni, Kohli's samples could be taken ICC Head of Events, Chris Tetley said: “We have decided to postpone the second series of the ICC Men’s CWC Challenge League A that was due to take place in Malaysia next month. The ICC’s priority continues to be to protect the well-being of players, coaches, officials, fans and the whole cricket community. As a result of this we have fully assessed the situation in partnership with the Malaysia Cricket Association and participating Members with ongoing international travel restrictions, global health concerns still prominent and on government and public health authority advice in relation to COVID-19 we have decided to postpone the event. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Chris Gayle tests negative for COVID-19 after attending Usain Bolt's birthday bash “With the additional time giving to us due to the rescheduling of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 to October and November of 2023, we will now work with hosts and participating Members to find an appropriate window where the qualification pathway fixtures can be safely and practically rescheduled.”

ICC Men's CWC Challenge League A postponed

Bayern Munich were crowned the champions of Europe for a sixth time when they defeated first-time finalists Paris Saint-Germain 1-0 in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/uefa-champions-league">UEFA Champions League</a> final at the Estadio da Luz in Lisbon on Sunday. <o:p></o:p>

Due to the pandemic, the matches were played without an audience, but the roar of fans was loud and clear on Twitter. While Bayern Munich won the trophy on ground, Paris Saint-Germain won the hearts off the field, becoming the most Tweeted team on Twitter globally. Manchester United and FC Barcelona were the two most Tweeted teams in India.

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/bayern-munich-10-psg-uefa-champions-league-final-all-the-action-in-pictures-322813" hreflang="en">Bayern Munich 1:0 PSG, UEFA Champions League Final: All the action in pictures</a>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Most Tweeted about teams (Globally):<o:p></o:p></h2>

<ol>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Paris Saint-Germain <o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">FC Barcelona <o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">FC Bayern Munich <o:p></o:p></li>
</ol>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Most Tweeted about teams (India):<o:p></o:p></h2>

1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Manchester United <o:p></o:p>

2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; FC Barcelona<o:p></o:p>

3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; FC Bayern Munich <o:p></o:p>

In this fixture, both the teams gave each other stiff competition, but Bayern edged past PSG, beating the French side 1-0 in the all-important game. <o:p></o:p>

Kingsley Coman scored a goal with a header just before the hour mark. PSG missed quite a few opportunities in the first half itself as Neymar, Angel Di Maria and Kylian Mbappe each failed to beat the veteran Bayern &amp; German shot-stopper Manuel Neuer from a relatively close range.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-bayern-munich-equal-barcelonas-treble-feat-322778" hreflang="en">Champions League: Bayern Munich equal Barcelona's 'treble' feat</a><o:p>&nbsp;&nbsp;</o:p>

This #UCLFinal clash between #PSGFCB was the most Tweeted match of this Champions League globally. Here are the most Tweeted about matches globally and in India:<o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Most Tweeted about matches (Globally):<o:p></o:p></h2>

<ol>
	<li class="MsoNormal">PSG vs FC Bayern Munich<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Barcelona vs FC Bayern Munich<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Atalanta vs PSG<o:p></o:p></li>
</ol>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Most Tweeted about matches (India):<o:p></o:p></h2>

<ol>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Barcelona vs Bayern Munich<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">PSG vs Bayern Munich<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Bayern Munich vs Chelsea<o:p></o:p></li>
</ol>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Top related Topics (India): <o:p></o:p><o:p>&nbsp;</o:p></h2>

Twitter has Topics across numerous interest categories that you can follow to see the best Tweets about what’s happening on the things that matter to you. The following Topics dominated India conversations for UEFA Champions League on Twitter: <o:p></o:p>

<ul>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Bruno Fernandes, <o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Jadon Sancho<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Paul Pogba<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Marcus Rashford<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">UEFA Europa League<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">UEFA Champions League<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Liverpool FC<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Chelsea<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Manchester United</li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Real Madrid CF <o:p></o:p></li>
</ul>

<o:p></o:p>

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/harry-maguire-and-victor-lindelof-contrasting-tales-of-two-manchester-united-defenders-322998" hreflang="en">Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof: Contrasting tales of two Manchester United defenders</a>

One can choose to follow these Topics and personalise their Twitter experience with relevant Tweets. From the profile menu, on the Home timeline, and in search results, one can see prompts to follow various Topics.<o:p></o:p>

Stay tuned to social media platform Twitter for more Football action and updates from on &amp; off the field, as the new season kick-starts next month, #OnlyOnTwitter.<o:p></o:p>

Bayern Munich were crowned the champions of Europe for a sixth time when they defeated first-time finalists Paris Saint-Germain 1-0 in the UEFA Champions League final at the Estadio da Luz in Lisbon on Sunday.

Bayern Munich were crowned the champions of Europe for a sixth time when they defeated first-time finalists Paris Saint-Germain 1-0 in the UEFA Champions League final at the Estadio da Luz in Lisbon on Sunday. Due to the pandemic, the matches were played without an audience, but the roar of fans was loud and clear on Twitter. While Bayern Munich won the trophy on ground, Paris Saint-Germain won the hearts off the field, becoming the most Tweeted team on Twitter globally. Manchester United and FC Barcelona were the two most Tweeted teams in India. IN PICS | Bayern Munich 1:0 PSG, UEFA Champions League Final: All the action in pictures Most Tweeted about teams (Globally): Paris Saint-Germain FC Barcelona FC Bayern Munich Most Tweeted about teams (India): 1. Manchester United 2. FC Barcelona 3. FC Bayern Munich In this fixture, both the teams gave each other stiff competition, but Bayern edged past PSG, beating the French side 1-0 in the all-important game. Kingsley Coman scored a goal with a header just before the hour mark. PSG missed quite a few opportunities in the first half itself as Neymar, Angel Di Maria and Kylian Mbappe each failed to beat the veteran Bayern & German shot-stopper Manuel Neuer from a relatively close range. ALSO READ: Champions League: Bayern Munich equal Barcelona's 'treble' feat This #UCLFinal clash between #PSGFCB was the most Tweeted match of this Champions League globally. Here are the most Tweeted about matches globally and in India: Most Tweeted about matches (Globally): PSG vs FC Bayern Munich Barcelona vs FC Bayern Munich Atalanta vs PSG Most Tweeted about matches (India): Barcelona vs Bayern Munich PSG vs Bayern Munich Bayern Munich vs Chelsea Top related Topics (India): Twitter has Topics across numerous interest categories that you can follow to see the best Tweets about what’s happening on the things that matter to you. The following Topics dominated India conversations for UEFA Champions League on Twitter: Bruno Fernandes, Jadon Sancho Paul Pogba Marcus Rashford UEFA Europa League UEFA Champions League Liverpool FC Chelsea Manchester United Real Madrid CF ALSO READ: Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof: Contrasting tales of two Manchester United defenders One can choose to follow these Topics and personalise their Twitter experience with relevant Tweets. From the profile menu, on the Home timeline, and in search results, one can see prompts to follow various Topics. Stay tuned to social media platform Twitter for more Football action and updates from on & off the field, as the new season kick-starts next month, #OnlyOnTwitter.

Champions League 2019-20: PSG become the most Tweeted about team on Twitter

Manchester United may have finished the Premier League 2019-20 season in top four while securing the UEFA Champions League spot for the next season but their off season stories have taken sharp turns with both the centre-backs Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof being the central to two completely contrasting tales.&nbsp;

Lindelof made a timely intervention by chasing down a man who stole an elderly woman’s handbag in his home city of Vasteras on Monday. A police statement said that the suspect snatched the handbag of the elderly woman as he cycled past her. However,

Lindelof chased and caught the man before handing him over to the concerned authorities.&nbsp;

“A man who was in the vicinity is said to have run after the suspected perpetrator, caught up with him and held him until the police arrived at the scene,” the police said without naming the 26-year-old Lindelof.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ronaldinho-released-from-paraguay-after-five-months-of-detention-322946" hreflang="en">Ronaldinho released from Paraguay after five months of detention</a>

“The police would like to take this opportunity to thank the witness for a quick and sensible intervention to restore the plaintiff’s property.”

Lindelof, who joined United from Portuguese side Benfica in 2017, started 35 Premier League games in the 2019-20 season as they finished third.

<h2>Maguire in trouble</h2>

Whereas in a completely contrasting story of other Manchester United defender and captain Harry Maguire, the England international spent two nights in police custody after he was arrested during a holiday with family and friends on the Greek island of Mykonos after charges of aggravated assault and attempted bribery to a police officer.

Police said there had been an altercation and exchange of words with an officer who tried to intervene a fight. However, Maguire has denied charges of assault and attempted bribery.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-lionel-messi-leave-barcelona-man-city-crunching-numbers-for-argentine-maestro-322969" hreflang="en">Will Lionel Messi leave Barcelona? Man City 'crunching numbers' for Argentine maestro</a>

According to Greek police, “three foreigners” are accused of “violence against officials, disobedience, bodily harm, insult and attempted bribery of an official.”

<img alt="Harry Maguire" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="43864a61-223f-457e-8905-ff7edb29b1dc" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1WO2FS.jpg" />

Man United released the following statement on Saturday: “Following the appearance in court today we note the adjournment of the case to allow the legal team to consider the case file. Harry has pleaded not guilty to the charges. It would be inappropriate for the player or club to comment further while the legal process takes its course.”

The 27-year-old entered his plea on Saturday with a court date for Tuesday in Greece. However, his attendance won’t be required as his lawyer is expected to represent his interests. He is also set to fly back to England.

It was even reported that England manager Gareth Southgate is thinking hard about whether to hand a call-up to Maguire for international friendlies.&nbsp;

With both Lindelof and Maguire setting two different examples, it will be interesting to see whether these incidents have any major ramification on their forms, especially that of Maguire’s.

Manchester United may have finished the Premier League 2019-20 season in top four while securing the UEFA Champions League spot for the next season but their off season stories have taken sharp turns with both the centre-backs Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof being the central to two completely contrasting tales.

Manchester United may have finished the Premier League 2019-20 season in top four while securing the UEFA Champions League spot for the next season but their off season stories have taken sharp turns with both the centre-backs Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof being the central to two completely contrasting tales. Lindelof made a timely intervention by chasing down a man who stole an elderly woman’s handbag in his home city of Vasteras on Monday. A police statement said that the suspect snatched the handbag of the elderly woman as he cycled past her. However, Lindelof chased and caught the man before handing him over to the concerned authorities. “A man who was in the vicinity is said to have run after the suspected perpetrator, caught up with him and held him until the police arrived at the scene,” the police said without naming the 26-year-old Lindelof. ALSO READ: Ronaldinho released from Paraguay after five months of detention “The police would like to take this opportunity to thank the witness for a quick and sensible intervention to restore the plaintiff’s property.” Lindelof, who joined United from Portuguese side Benfica in 2017, started 35 Premier League games in the 2019-20 season as they finished third. Maguire in trouble Whereas in a completely contrasting story of other Manchester United defender and captain Harry Maguire, the England international spent two nights in police custody after he was arrested during a holiday with family and friends on the Greek island of Mykonos after charges of aggravated assault and attempted bribery to a police officer. Police said there had been an altercation and exchange of words with an officer who tried to intervene a fight. However, Maguire has denied charges of assault and attempted bribery. ALSO READ: Will Lionel Messi leave Barcelona? Man City 'crunching numbers' for Argentine maestro According to Greek police, “three foreigners” are accused of “violence against officials, disobedience, bodily harm, insult and attempted bribery of an official.” Man United released the following statement on Saturday: “Following the appearance in court today we note the adjournment of the case to allow the legal team to consider the case file. Harry has pleaded not guilty to the charges. It would be inappropriate for the player or club to comment further while the legal process takes its course.” The 27-year-old entered his plea on Saturday with a court date for Tuesday in Greece. However, his attendance won’t be required as his lawyer is expected to represent his interests. He is also set to fly back to England. It was even reported that England manager Gareth Southgate is thinking hard about whether to hand a call-up to Maguire for international friendlies. With both Lindelof and Maguire setting two different examples, it will be interesting to see whether these incidents have any major ramification on their forms, especially that of Maguire’s.

Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof: Contrasting tales of two Manchester United defenders

With the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) coming under the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA), the players set to participate in the much-awaited <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a> will have to undergo random doping tests throughout the course of the season with the anti-doping agency planning 50 tests. The likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and MS Dhoni among other top stars in the cash-rich tournament could be tested this season.

As per reports, NADA has put five ‘Dope Control Stations’ and both ‘in-competition’ and ‘out of competition’ tests will be done on players. However, the COVID-19 pandemic and related health protocols make collection of samples a tricky task.

NADA hasn’t chalked out the possibility of blood-sample collection even though urine samples are generally taken for dope tests. The report states that NADA DCO’s will be encouraged to take samples of leading Indian cricketers including the likes of Kohli, Dhoni, Rohit and others. But 50 tests seem a tad bit low with so many players participating in a tournament that will run for around two months.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-chris-gayle-tests-negative-for-covid-19-after-attending-usain-bolts-birthday-bash-322951" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Chris Gayle tests negative for COVID-19 after attending Usain Bolt's birthday bash</a>

A total of three teams -- comprising of NADA officials and DCOs -- will be sent to UAE in three batches.

"The first batch will leave in the first week of September. Before their departure, all team members will be tested for Covid-19. Upon their arrival in the UAE, they will be tested again."

Players, under unprecedented circumstances surrounding COVID-19 pandemic, will have to undergo COVID-19 tests on a regular basis. The dope tests by NADA to ensure no player has taken banned substance will only increase the pressure on players.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/silverwood-urges-england-to-finish-strong-and-see-anderson-to-600th-test-wickets-322924" hreflang="en">Silverwood urges England to finish strong and see Anderson to 600th Test wickets</a>

Furthermore, players need to be careful about not breaching the protocols including the bio-secure bubble that could put the entire IPL 2020 in trouble.&nbsp;

We've done quite well to get to Dubai safe and sound firstly. We've followed what's been told to us and I would expect everyone to be on the same page in terms of securing the bubble at all times and making sure that nothing is compromised because one mistake from any of us could literally spoil the whole tournament and none of us want to do that," Kohli said during a RCB virtual team meeting. &nbsp;

With the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) coming under the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA), the players set to participate in the much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 will have to undergo random doping tests throughout the course of the season with the anti-doping agency planning 50 tests.

With the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) coming under the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA), the players set to participate in the much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 will have to undergo random doping tests throughout the course of the season with the anti-doping agency planning 50 tests. The likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and MS Dhoni among other top stars in the cash-rich tournament could be tested this season. As per reports, NADA has put five ‘Dope Control Stations’ and both ‘in-competition’ and ‘out of competition’ tests will be done on players. However, the COVID-19 pandemic and related health protocols make collection of samples a tricky task. NADA hasn’t chalked out the possibility of blood-sample collection even though urine samples are generally taken for dope tests. The report states that NADA DCO’s will be encouraged to take samples of leading Indian cricketers including the likes of Kohli, Dhoni, Rohit and others. But 50 tests seem a tad bit low with so many players participating in a tournament that will run for around two months. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Chris Gayle tests negative for COVID-19 after attending Usain Bolt's birthday bash A total of three teams -- comprising of NADA officials and DCOs -- will be sent to UAE in three batches. "The first batch will leave in the first week of September. Before their departure, all team members will be tested for Covid-19. Upon their arrival in the UAE, they will be tested again." Players, under unprecedented circumstances surrounding COVID-19 pandemic, will have to undergo COVID-19 tests on a regular basis. The dope tests by NADA to ensure no player has taken banned substance will only increase the pressure on players. ALSO READ: Silverwood urges England to finish strong and see Anderson to 600th Test wickets Furthermore, players need to be careful about not breaching the protocols including the bio-secure bubble that could put the entire IPL 2020 in trouble. We've done quite well to get to Dubai safe and sound firstly. We've followed what's been told to us and I would expect everyone to be on the same page in terms of securing the bubble at all times and making sure that nothing is compromised because one mistake from any of us could literally spoil the whole tournament and none of us want to do that," Kohli said during a RCB virtual team meeting.

NADA plans to conduct 50 tests in IPL; Dhoni, Kohli's samples could be taken

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