Selflessness defines a leader in Rohit Sharma's captaincy rulebook and that's why he has no hesitation in calling himself the "least important person" in the Mumbai Indians team, the most successful franchise in IPL's history.

Indian cricket will hit the restart button with the IPL from September 19 in the UAE even as the world continues its frenzied battle to contain the COVID-19 pandemic.

The man, who led Mumbai Indians to four titles, knows that as captain, it will not just be about him getting back into the groove after a forced seven-month break.

"I believe in a theory that when you are captain, you are the least important person. Others become more important in the larger scheme of things. It works differently for different leaders but as far as I am concerned, this theory works for me," Rohit told PTI in an exclusive interview.

Suresh Raina recently compared his cool quotient to that of Mahendra Singh Dhoni. He prefers to play down the comparison but there is one undeniable similarity between the two -- Rohit can also remain as unfazed as the former India captain in the most difficult of situations.

"Not showing anger is not a conscious effort," he laughs.

"That's a natural instinct that you have and you don't try and be someone that you are not. Try and be yourself all the time," he said.

"You do get angry, lose temper at times but it's important not to show it to your teammates. Hiding your emotions is the most crucial part."

The Indian vice-captain believes that there is "enough time" before the IPL starts and he would slowly build on his strength, stamina and skills during the next one month after the long lay-off.

"Hopefully, the gym will open this week and I can start my indoor (strength training) sessions. Right now, due to Mumbai monsoons, you can't train outdoor. I am planning to write a letter to MCA (on using indoor facilities)," he said.

Having won an Asia Cup in Dubai in 2018, he has a fair idea about what awaits his team next month in terms of conditions.

Rohit said the plan is to build up slowly after being away from his bat for the longest he can remember.

"We have lot of time in our hands...I will be taking it slow. Luckily, I don't think there is any rush that I need to show. We have enough time. I will work on getting back to the ground slowly because the temperature in Dubai is 40 degrees. It's not easy," he said.

"It's the longest gap that I have ever had in my career without holding a bat. It will be a bit challenging. Unless I play, I will not know where I am and how I feel but body is completely fine. I feel physically more strong than ever because of the last four months," Rohit said.

He has consistently been in touch with MI's core team of strategists on conference call discussing the details of the challenge ahead in the UAE, where the IPL will be held in Dubai, Sharjah and Abu Dhabi.

"It's a good environment to be in. It's challenging but I love challenges and I want an environment like this. My mind has been relaxed for last five months...,? he said.

"...Your planning changes a lot. Pitches in Dubai are a bit on the slower side. The pitches are not so different from India but yes overhead conditions will be a big factor as you are not always used to playing in 40 degrees which can be a bit of a challenge," he explained.

"As much as we sit and plan things here, it could completely change once we are there and check out the conditions and then think about ideal combinations," he felt.

For him, it's important that youngsters can look up to him and draw confidence.

"You need to give confidence to the younger players, some of them haven't played the IPL before, don't have international exposure. I need to make sure they are in the best zone, not pressurised by the moment and get those little performances from everyone," he said.

Asked about some of the youngsters he is looking forward to seeing this year, the skipper made it clear that he never found naming favourites and comparisons healthy.

"When I was a 20-year-old, trust me I never liked comparisons. Know one thing, you should never pit two young guys against each other. They don't feel good about it.

"It's important that everyone is treated the same and then it's purely up to them as to what they do with their careers and how they take it forward," the easygoing batsman, who has nearly 14,000 international runs, said.

Talking about time away from the game in a lockdown, Rohit spoke about how it helped him reflect on his life outside the rigours of 22 yards.

A life in which he is first and foremost a loving husband and a doting dad.

"I probably understood the importance of family more than ever before. Through the year, through your playing career, they sacrifice so much for you, you are home for a short time and always on the road," he said.

"It was icing on the cake because my daughter (Samaira) is just growing up. It's these years of her life that I don't want to miss. The first step that she takes, the first words spoken.

"Spending so much time with her, playing with her, putting her to sleep, it was pure joy," he concluded.

Selflessness defines a leader in Rohit Sharma's captaincy rulebook and that's why he has no hesitation in calling himself the "least important person" in the Mumbai Indians team, the most successful franchise in IPL's history.

Selflessness defines a leader in Rohit Sharma's captaincy rulebook and that's why he has no hesitation in calling himself the "least important person" in the Mumbai Indians team, the most successful franchise in IPL's history. Indian cricket will hit the restart button with the IPL from September 19 in the UAE even as the world continues its frenzied battle to contain the COVID-19 pandemic. The man, who led Mumbai Indians to four titles, knows that as captain, it will not just be about him getting back into the groove after a forced seven-month break. "I believe in a theory that when you are captain, you are the least important person. Others become more important in the larger scheme of things. It works differently for different leaders but as far as I am concerned, this theory works for me," Rohit told PTI in an exclusive interview. Suresh Raina recently compared his cool quotient to that of Mahendra Singh Dhoni. He prefers to play down the comparison but there is one undeniable similarity between the two -- Rohit can also remain as unfazed as the former India captain in the most difficult of situations. "Not showing anger is not a conscious effort," he laughs. "That's a natural instinct that you have and you don't try and be someone that you are not. Try and be yourself all the time," he said. "You do get angry, lose temper at times but it's important not to show it to your teammates. Hiding your emotions is the most crucial part." The Indian vice-captain believes that there is "enough time" before the IPL starts and he would slowly build on his strength, stamina and skills during the next one month after the long lay-off. "Hopefully, the gym will open this week and I can start my indoor (strength training) sessions. Right now, due to Mumbai monsoons, you can't train outdoor. I am planning to write a letter to MCA (on using indoor facilities)," he said. Having won an Asia Cup in Dubai in 2018, he has a fair idea about what awaits his team next month in terms of conditions. Rohit said the plan is to build up slowly after being away from his bat for the longest he can remember. "We have lot of time in our hands...I will be taking it slow. Luckily, I don't think there is any rush that I need to show. We have enough time. I will work on getting back to the ground slowly because the temperature in Dubai is 40 degrees. It's not easy," he said. "It's the longest gap that I have ever had in my career without holding a bat. It will be a bit challenging. Unless I play, I will not know where I am and how I feel but body is completely fine. I feel physically more strong than ever because of the last four months," Rohit said. He has consistently been in touch with MI's core team of strategists on conference call discussing the details of the challenge ahead in the UAE, where the IPL will be held in Dubai, Sharjah and Abu Dhabi. "It's a good environment to be in. It's challenging but I love challenges and I want an environment like this. My mind has been relaxed for last five months...,? he said. "...Your planning changes a lot. Pitches in Dubai are a bit on the slower side. The pitches are not so different from India but yes overhead conditions will be a big factor as you are not always used to playing in 40 degrees which can be a bit of a challenge," he explained. "As much as we sit and plan things here, it could completely change once we are there and check out the conditions and then think about ideal combinations," he felt. For him, it's important that youngsters can look up to him and draw confidence. "You need to give confidence to the younger players, some of them haven't played the IPL before, don't have international exposure. I need to make sure they are in the best zone, not pressurised by the moment and get those little performances from everyone," he said. Asked about some of the youngsters he is looking forward to seeing this year, the skipper made it clear that he never found naming favourites and comparisons healthy. "When I was a 20-year-old, trust me I never liked comparisons. Know one thing, you should never pit two young guys against each other. They don't feel good about it. "It's important that everyone is treated the same and then it's purely up to them as to what they do with their careers and how they take it forward," the easygoing batsman, who has nearly 14,000 international runs, said. Talking about time away from the game in a lockdown, Rohit spoke about how it helped him reflect on his life outside the rigours of 22 yards. A life in which he is first and foremost a loving husband and a doting dad. "I probably understood the importance of family more than ever before. Through the year, through your playing career, they sacrifice so much for you, you are home for a short time and always on the road," he said. "It was icing on the cake because my daughter (Samaira) is just growing up. It's these years of her life that I don't want to miss. The first step that she takes, the first words spoken. "Spending so much time with her, playing with her, putting her to sleep, it was pure joy," he concluded.

Rohit Sharma: As captain, I am the least important person in team

World number two Rafael Nadal on Tuesday confirmed that he will not defend his US Open title this year at the iconic Flushing Meadows as he cited concerns surrounding COVID-19. Nadal joined women’s world number one Australian Ashleigh Barty in skipping the tournament due to coronavirus concers.&nbsp;

"After many thoughts I have decided not to play this year's U.S. Open," Nadal said on Twitter here "The situation is very complicated worldwide, the COVID-19 cases are increasing, it looks like we still don't have control of it.

“We know that the reduced tennis calendar is barbaric this year after 4 months stopped with no play, I understand and thank (everyone) for the efforts they are putting in to make it happen. We have just seen the announcement of Madrid not being played this year.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/madrid-masters-tennis-cancelled-due-to-covid-318300" hreflang="en">Madrid Masters tennis cancelled due to COVID</a>

“This is a decision I never wanted to take but I have decided to follow my heart this time and for the time being I rather not travel.”

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After many thoughts I have decided not to play this year’s US Open. The situation is very complicated worldwide, the COVID-19 cases are increasing, it looks like we still don’t have control of it.
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The Madrid Open, which was scheduled to be held from September 12-20, was called off on Tuesday amid rising cases of COVID-19 in the Spanish capital. Whereas, the United States has the highest tally in the world with more than 4.7 million coronavirus cases with around 156,000 deaths.&nbsp;

World number one Novak Djokovic headlines the men’s list for US Open 2020 along with last year’s runner-up Daniil Medvedev with other top 10 players including Dominic Thiem, Stefanos Tsitsipas and Alexander Zverev.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/andy-murray-expects-some-top-male-players-to-skip-us-open-2020-317253" hreflang="en">Andy Murray expects 'some top male players' to skip US Open 2020</a>

Notably, Swiss ace Roger Federer will also be absent after he underwent a knee surgery in June that ended his 2020 season.

Nine of the top 10 women’s players, including 23-times Grand Slam champion Serena Williams and holder Bianca Andreescu, are on the entry list along with 2018 champion Naomi Osaka.

Organisers said the seedings would be announced closer to the start of the tournament which is scheduled for Aug. 31.

World number two Rafael Nadal on Tuesday confirmed that he will not defend his US Open title this year at the iconic Flushing Meadows as he cited concerns surrounding COVID-19.

World number two Rafael Nadal on Tuesday confirmed that he will not defend his US Open title this year at the iconic Flushing Meadows as he cited concerns surrounding COVID-19. Nadal joined women’s world number one Australian Ashleigh Barty in skipping the tournament due to coronavirus concers. "After many thoughts I have decided not to play this year's U.S. Open," Nadal said on Twitter here "The situation is very complicated worldwide, the COVID-19 cases are increasing, it looks like we still don't have control of it. “We know that the reduced tennis calendar is barbaric this year after 4 months stopped with no play, I understand and thank (everyone) for the efforts they are putting in to make it happen. We have just seen the announcement of Madrid not being played this year. ALSO READ: Madrid Masters tennis cancelled due to COVID “This is a decision I never wanted to take but I have decided to follow my heart this time and for the time being I rather not travel.” After many thoughts I have decided not to play this year’s US Open. The situation is very complicated worldwide, the COVID-19 cases are increasing, it looks like we still don’t have control of it. — Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) August 4, 2020 × The Madrid Open, which was scheduled to be held from September 12-20, was called off on Tuesday amid rising cases of COVID-19 in the Spanish capital. Whereas, the United States has the highest tally in the world with more than 4.7 million coronavirus cases with around 156,000 deaths. World number one Novak Djokovic headlines the men’s list for US Open 2020 along with last year’s runner-up Daniil Medvedev with other top 10 players including Dominic Thiem, Stefanos Tsitsipas and Alexander Zverev. ALSO READ: Andy Murray expects 'some top male players' to skip US Open 2020 Notably, Swiss ace Roger Federer will also be absent after he underwent a knee surgery in June that ended his 2020 season. Nine of the top 10 women’s players, including 23-times Grand Slam champion Serena Williams and holder Bianca Andreescu, are on the entry list along with 2018 champion Naomi Osaka. Organisers said the seedings would be announced closer to the start of the tournament which is scheduled for Aug. 31.

Rafael Nadal skips US Open citing COVID-19 concerns

Tottenham Hotspur defender Danny Rose has said he is tired of racial discrimination after being regularly stopped by police and asked if his car is stolen.

The 30-year-old England international said he has had similar experiences for the last 15 years.

“The last time, last week, when I’d just been at my mum’s house, I had pulled up in a car park so the engine was off,” he told the Second Captains podcast.

“The police pulled in and they brought a riot van, three police cars and questioned me. They said they’d had a report that a car had not been driving correctly.

“I’m like: ‘So why does that make it my car?’ I got my ID out and they breathalysed me. It’s just one of those things to me now. Each time it’s: ‘Is this car stolen? Where did you get it from? Can you prove that you bought this car.’”

Rose said such incidents had made him sceptical about the prospects of lasting change.

“I just give up with hoping that things will change because that’s some people’s mentality towards racism.”

Rose said last year that he could not wait to leave football because he had had enough of the racism in the game.

Tottenham Hotspur defender Danny Rose has said he is tired of racial discrimination after being regularly stopped by police and asked if his car is stolen. The 30-year-old England international said he has had similar experiences for the last 15 years.

Tottenham Hotspur defender Danny Rose has said he is tired of racial discrimination after being regularly stopped by police and asked if his car is stolen. The 30-year-old England international said he has had similar experiences for the last 15 years. “The last time, last week, when I’d just been at my mum’s house, I had pulled up in a car park so the engine was off,” he told the Second Captains podcast. “The police pulled in and they brought a riot van, three police cars and questioned me. They said they’d had a report that a car had not been driving correctly. “I’m like: ‘So why does that make it my car?’ I got my ID out and they breathalysed me. It’s just one of those things to me now. Each time it’s: ‘Is this car stolen? Where did you get it from? Can you prove that you bought this car.’” Rose said such incidents had made him sceptical about the prospects of lasting change. “I just give up with hoping that things will change because that’s some people’s mentality towards racism.” Rose said last year that he could not wait to leave football because he had had enough of the racism in the game.

Spurs' Rose says tired of police stopping him to ask if car is stolen

Liverpool's principal owner John W Henry says being part of the club's triumphs in the past 14 months has been the highlight of his career despite his multiple successes with the Boston Red Sox.

Since June 2019, Jurgen Klopp's team have won the Champions League, UEFA Super Cup, FIFA Club World Cup and, after a 30-year wait, the English league title.

Henry's Fenway Sports Group also owns baseball franchise the Boston Red Sox, who ended their own 86-year trophy drought with a World Series victory in 2004, following up with further wins in 2007, 2013 and 2018.

But the American believes what Liverpool have achieved surpasses those achievements.

"The fact that we are champions of England, champions of Europe, the Club World Cup, the Super Cup is just an extraordinary accomplishment by this organisation and by these players," he told liverpoolfc.com.

"To be involved with that, to have been a part of it has really been the capstone of my career and I think all of us who have been a part of Fenway Sports Group."

Henry thanked the players and staff, highlighting the impact of Klopp and the team around him.

"I could go on and on about Jurgen and how his heart is larger than his frame, how his enthusiasm affects all of us positively every day," he said.

As Klopp plots more successes, veteran Liverpool midfielder James Milner has warned his team-mates it would be "criminal" for them to lose focus after their Premier League triumph.

The players are currently on a break before pre-season begins but Milner, who also won two titles in three years with Manchester City, says they have to be switched on when they return.

"I think it's getting that balance right. We have to enjoy it because we know how hard it is to win trophies," the 34-year-old told Liverpool's website.

"We've been very good to do it but also lucky to win the amount of trophies we have had this year.

"Trent (Alexander-Arnold) thinks it's absolutely easy, he just turns up and wins trophies every year but I can assure you, with the amount of years I've had in my career, it's not that easy."

He warned his teammates against letting their standards drop.

"We have a couple of weeks to enjoy this and enjoy being champions and then, as soon as next season starts, it's down to the fans to carry on enjoying it and enjoy being champions for us," he said.

Liverpool's principal owner John W Henry says being part of the club's triumphs in the past 14 months has been the highlight of his career despite his multiple successes with the Boston Red Sox.

Liverpool's principal owner John W Henry says being part of the club's triumphs in the past 14 months has been the highlight of his career despite his multiple successes with the Boston Red Sox. Since June 2019, Jurgen Klopp's team have won the Champions League, UEFA Super Cup, FIFA Club World Cup and, after a 30-year wait, the English league title. Henry's Fenway Sports Group also owns baseball franchise the Boston Red Sox, who ended their own 86-year trophy drought with a World Series victory in 2004, following up with further wins in 2007, 2013 and 2018. But the American believes what Liverpool have achieved surpasses those achievements. "The fact that we are champions of England, champions of Europe, the Club World Cup, the Super Cup is just an extraordinary accomplishment by this organisation and by these players," he told liverpoolfc.com. "To be involved with that, to have been a part of it has really been the capstone of my career and I think all of us who have been a part of Fenway Sports Group." Henry thanked the players and staff, highlighting the impact of Klopp and the team around him. "I could go on and on about Jurgen and how his heart is larger than his frame, how his enthusiasm affects all of us positively every day," he said. As Klopp plots more successes, veteran Liverpool midfielder James Milner has warned his team-mates it would be "criminal" for them to lose focus after their Premier League triumph. The players are currently on a break before pre-season begins but Milner, who also won two titles in three years with Manchester City, says they have to be switched on when they return. "I think it's getting that balance right. We have to enjoy it because we know how hard it is to win trophies," the 34-year-old told Liverpool's website. "We've been very good to do it but also lucky to win the amount of trophies we have had this year. "Trent (Alexander-Arnold) thinks it's absolutely easy, he just turns up and wins trophies every year but I can assure you, with the amount of years I've had in my career, it's not that easy." He warned his teammates against letting their standards drop. "We have a couple of weeks to enjoy this and enjoy being champions and then, as soon as next season starts, it's down to the fans to carry on enjoying it and enjoy being champions for us," he said.

Liverpool owner speaks of pride after 'extraordinary' trophy run

Cricket matches between England and Pakistan have often been a fraught affair, with rows over umpiring, ball-tampering, abandoned fixtures and a spot-fixing scandal all contributing to a tense relationship.

Below AFP Sport looks back at five of the biggest rows ahead of the first Test between the two sides at Emirates Old Trafford on Wednesday:

<h2>1956: The umpire and the bucket of water</h2>

Pakistani umpire Idris Baig was 'kidnapped' by England players, taken to the team hotel in Peshawar and doused with two buckets of water.

The late Donald Carr, the England captain, dismissed the incident as a prank after some questionable decisions against the tourists.

But what was intended as a joke has often been cited as the root cause of many a subsequent rows.

<h2>1987: Mike Gatting and Shakoor Rana</h2>

The Faisalabad Test of 1987 became infamous for perhaps the most heated of all on-field arguments when Pakistani umpire Shakoor Rana accused the visitors' captain Mike Gatting of illegally moving a fielder late on the second day.

Gatting, who was adamant he had done nothing wrong, responded to being a called a "cheat" by Rana by confronting the square-leg umpire and the two men were soon pointing fingers at each other's chests.

Rana refused to stand on the third day, meaning there was no play, but after a rest day and shortly ahead of the fourth day's play, Gatting presented the umpire with a scribbled apology.

<h2>1992: Swing suspicions</h2>

Reverse swing was still a relatively new concept in English cricket at the time but it was used to great effect by touring Pakistan pacemen Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis.

But their success, which the England bowlers failed to match, attracted suspicions of illegal ball-tampering and matters came to a head during a one-day international at Lord's.

Bad weather meant the game went into a second day when a trio of English officials -- on-field umpires Ken Palmer and John Hampshire together with third umpire Don Oslear -- ordered the ball be changed under Law 42, which deals with the condition of the ball.

Administrators, horrified by a possible scandal, refused to announce publicly why the ball had been changed -- something that angered Pakistan, who then had to confront numerous allegations.

Meanwhile home batsman Allan Lamb gave an interview to the Daily Mirror headlined "How Pakistan Cheat at Cricket".

<h2>2006: Forfeit at the Oval</h2>

England were bystanders as Pakistan became the first team in 129 years and 1,814 fixtures to forfeit a Test match.

The incident began on the fourth afternoon at the Oval when experienced Australian umpire Darrell Hair tapped his shoulder to indicate five penalty runs, signalling he had found the Pakistanis guilty of ball-tampering.

The angry tourists refused to take the field after tea and Hair, together with West Indian umpire Billy Doctrove took that to mean they had forfeited the match which, after hours of confusion,was awarded to England.

This match marked the beginning of the end of Hair's time as a top umpire after it later emerged he had offered to resign in exchange for $500,000.

<h2>2010: Trott and Riaz clash at Lord's</h2>

Pakistan's tour was already mired in controversy following the spot-fixing scandal in that year's Lord's Test when, in a newspaper sting operation then captain Salman Butt instructed pacemen Mohammad Amir and Mohammad Asid to bowl deliberate no-balls.

The trio were all later banned and jailed.

When the teams returned to the 'Home of Cricket' for a one-day international, England's Jonathan Trott and Pakistan's Wahab Riaz had to be separated in the nets after exchanging angry words.

Wahab is in Pakistan's squad for the upcoming series, with the now retired Trott an England batting consultant.

Cricket matches between England and Pakistan have often been a fraught affair, with rows over umpiring, ball-tampering, abandoned fixtures and a spot-fixing scandal all contributing to a tense relationship.

Cricket matches between England and Pakistan have often been a fraught affair, with rows over umpiring, ball-tampering, abandoned fixtures and a spot-fixing scandal all contributing to a tense relationship. Below AFP Sport looks back at five of the biggest rows ahead of the first Test between the two sides at Emirates Old Trafford on Wednesday: 1956: The umpire and the bucket of water Pakistani umpire Idris Baig was 'kidnapped' by England players, taken to the team hotel in Peshawar and doused with two buckets of water. The late Donald Carr, the England captain, dismissed the incident as a prank after some questionable decisions against the tourists. But what was intended as a joke has often been cited as the root cause of many a subsequent rows. 1987: Mike Gatting and Shakoor Rana The Faisalabad Test of 1987 became infamous for perhaps the most heated of all on-field arguments when Pakistani umpire Shakoor Rana accused the visitors' captain Mike Gatting of illegally moving a fielder late on the second day. Gatting, who was adamant he had done nothing wrong, responded to being a called a "cheat" by Rana by confronting the square-leg umpire and the two men were soon pointing fingers at each other's chests. Rana refused to stand on the third day, meaning there was no play, but after a rest day and shortly ahead of the fourth day's play, Gatting presented the umpire with a scribbled apology. 1992: Swing suspicions Reverse swing was still a relatively new concept in English cricket at the time but it was used to great effect by touring Pakistan pacemen Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis. But their success, which the England bowlers failed to match, attracted suspicions of illegal ball-tampering and matters came to a head during a one-day international at Lord's. Bad weather meant the game went into a second day when a trio of English officials -- on-field umpires Ken Palmer and John Hampshire together with third umpire Don Oslear -- ordered the ball be changed under Law 42, which deals with the condition of the ball. Administrators, horrified by a possible scandal, refused to announce publicly why the ball had been changed -- something that angered Pakistan, who then had to confront numerous allegations. Meanwhile home batsman Allan Lamb gave an interview to the Daily Mirror headlined "How Pakistan Cheat at Cricket". 2006: Forfeit at the Oval England were bystanders as Pakistan became the first team in 129 years and 1,814 fixtures to forfeit a Test match. The incident began on the fourth afternoon at the Oval when experienced Australian umpire Darrell Hair tapped his shoulder to indicate five penalty runs, signalling he had found the Pakistanis guilty of ball-tampering. The angry tourists refused to take the field after tea and Hair, together with West Indian umpire Billy Doctrove took that to mean they had forfeited the match which, after hours of confusion,was awarded to England. This match marked the beginning of the end of Hair's time as a top umpire after it later emerged he had offered to resign in exchange for $500,000. 2010: Trott and Riaz clash at Lord's Pakistan's tour was already mired in controversy following the spot-fixing scandal in that year's Lord's Test when, in a newspaper sting operation then captain Salman Butt instructed pacemen Mohammad Amir and Mohammad Asid to bowl deliberate no-balls. The trio were all later banned and jailed. When the teams returned to the 'Home of Cricket' for a one-day international, England's Jonathan Trott and Pakistan's Wahab Riaz had to be separated in the nets after exchanging angry words. Wahab is in Pakistan's squad for the upcoming series, with the now retired Trott an England batting consultant.

Five great England-Pakistan flare-ups

Indian players and support staff will have to return negative for COVID-19 at least five times before they start training in the UAE and subsequently will be tested every fifth day during the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl?page=1">IPL</a>, according to a draft prepared by the BCCI.

A BCCI official told PTI that all Indian players and support staff will have to undergo two COVID-19 RT-PCR tests, 24 hours apart, a week before joining the 14-day quarantine period with their respective teams in India.

If any individual tests positive, he will go into a 14-day quarantine. After the quarantine, he will be required to undergo two more COVID-19 RT-PCR tests within a space of 24 hours and if they come negative, that person will be cleared to fly to UAE for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">IPL </a>beginning November 19.

"Following their arrival in the UAE, the players and support staff will have to return at least three negative tests during a week's quarantine and if they are negative, they can enter the bio-bubble and start training.

"There could be minor changes to this protocol depending on the feedback from the teams but there will not be any compromise on players and team officials' safety," the official said.

During the first week in the UAE, the players and team officials will not be allowed to meet each other in the hotel and they can only do so after they test negative thrice, following which they will be cleared to enter the tournament bio-bubble and start training.

What happens to foreign players who fly in directly to the UAE?

"All overseas players and support staff also need to undergo two COVID-19 RT-PCR tests before flying in to the UAE and can only fly if the tests are negative. If not, then the same 14-day quarantine period and two negative tests to be able to fly to the UAE," said the official.

The players and support staff will be tested on day 1, day 3 and day 6 of their quarantine in the UAE and after clearing that, they will be tested every fifth day during the 53-day event.

Over and above the BCCI testing protocol, the teams can do more tests on their own and additional tests may also be conducted under the rules put in place by the UAE government.

The teams have been told to not fly out before August 20 so that they can carry out the necessary testing protocols and the quarantine drill if needed.

The BCCI has left it to the teams to decide on the travel of partners and families of the players but they too will have to follow strict bio-secure protocols if they wish to accompany the cricketers and support staff.

The families will not be permitted to meet anyone outside the bio-bubble and will have to practice social distancing while interacting with other families and the players, that too with a facemask on.

"The families will also not be allowed to enter the PMOA (players and match officials area) and field of play at any time during the training and matches.

"And anyone who breaches the bio-secure protocols, will have to be in self-isolation for seven days and return two negative tests on day 6 and 7 to be allowed to re-enter the bio-bubble," the official added.

Forced out of India due to the rising coronavirus case count here, the IPL will allow unlimited COVID-19 replacements considering the delicate health safety situation across the globe.

Indian players and support staff will have to return negative for COVID-19 at least five times before they start training in the UAE and subsequently will be tested every fifth day during the IPL, according to a draft prepared by the BCCI.

Indian players and support staff will have to return negative for COVID-19 at least five times before they start training in the UAE and subsequently will be tested every fifth day during the IPL, according to a draft prepared by the BCCI. A BCCI official told PTI that all Indian players and support staff will have to undergo two COVID-19 RT-PCR tests, 24 hours apart, a week before joining the 14-day quarantine period with their respective teams in India. If any individual tests positive, he will go into a 14-day quarantine. After the quarantine, he will be required to undergo two more COVID-19 RT-PCR tests within a space of 24 hours and if they come negative, that person will be cleared to fly to UAE for the IPL beginning November 19. "Following their arrival in the UAE, the players and support staff will have to return at least three negative tests during a week's quarantine and if they are negative, they can enter the bio-bubble and start training. "There could be minor changes to this protocol depending on the feedback from the teams but there will not be any compromise on players and team officials' safety," the official said. During the first week in the UAE, the players and team officials will not be allowed to meet each other in the hotel and they can only do so after they test negative thrice, following which they will be cleared to enter the tournament bio-bubble and start training. What happens to foreign players who fly in directly to the UAE? "All overseas players and support staff also need to undergo two COVID-19 RT-PCR tests before flying in to the UAE and can only fly if the tests are negative. If not, then the same 14-day quarantine period and two negative tests to be able to fly to the UAE," said the official. The players and support staff will be tested on day 1, day 3 and day 6 of their quarantine in the UAE and after clearing that, they will be tested every fifth day during the 53-day event. Over and above the BCCI testing protocol, the teams can do more tests on their own and additional tests may also be conducted under the rules put in place by the UAE government. The teams have been told to not fly out before August 20 so that they can carry out the necessary testing protocols and the quarantine drill if needed. The BCCI has left it to the teams to decide on the travel of partners and families of the players but they too will have to follow strict bio-secure protocols if they wish to accompany the cricketers and support staff. The families will not be permitted to meet anyone outside the bio-bubble and will have to practice social distancing while interacting with other families and the players, that too with a facemask on. "The families will also not be allowed to enter the PMOA (players and match officials area) and field of play at any time during the training and matches. "And anyone who breaches the bio-secure protocols, will have to be in self-isolation for seven days and return two negative tests on day 6 and 7 to be allowed to re-enter the bio-bubble," the official added. Forced out of India due to the rising coronavirus case count here, the IPL will allow unlimited COVID-19 replacements considering the delicate health safety situation across the globe.

Players to be tested every 5th day during IPL, seven-day quarantine for kin who breaches bio-bubble

Football clubs in Germany's top two divisions on Tuesday agreed to plans drawn up by the league which could allow the partial return of fans to stadiums from mid-September, despite the coronavirus pandemic.

Under the plans proposed by the German Football League (DFL) for the new season, which starts on September 18, the clubs agreed on four key points.

Fans would only be allowed to sit, tickets would be personalised so spectators could be traced, alcohol at matches would be banned until October and there will be no away fans until the end of the year.

The plan is however subject to approval by German authorities, with health ministers of the country's 16 states to meet on Monday over the issue.

Germany has recorded 211,281 cases and 9,156 deaths due to the coronavirus, and in April began easing curbs imposed to halt transmission.&nbsp;

But fears are growing over a second wave as daily number of new infections&nbsp;was steadily climbing again, in recent weeks hitting levels not seen since May.

"The priority in Germany at the moment is not full stadiums, but people's health," said Christian Seifert, chief executive of the Bundesliga after a virtual meeting of the clubs.

"When and how many spectators are allowed to return to the stadiums is not a decision for the DFL to make."

The league's plans for fans to return has been the subject of debate among politicians and virologists in Germany.

Several fan groups have also criticised the plans, fearing long-term restrictions of their rights.

However, the league insists any changes would only be temporary while the pandemic continues to be a factor.

Seifert says the rate of infection must be taken into account and "should by no means be underestimated".

"Professional football can only return to normality in stages," he added.

"We will have to regain normality in small steps. We cannot go from zero to 100."

After a two-month hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the final nine rounds of last season's Bundesliga matches were completed behind closed doors in late June.

Amid tight hygiene measures, Germany was the first country to restart its league season which paved the way for other top European leagues to follow suit.

However, Bundesliga clubs lose millions of euros in match day revenue for each game played in front of empty stands and are eager to welcome fans back.

For example, Borussia Dortmund, who finished second to champions Bayern Munich last season, are planning to have up to 15,000 fans for home games next season.

On a typical match day in Dortmund, over 81,000 spectators would fill Signal Iduna Park.

However, Seifert said even a figure of 10,000 at matches would be hard to justify with large events banned in Germany until October 31.

"Nobody at the DFL will require a specific number of fans," he said.

Football clubs in Germany's top two divisions on Tuesday agreed to plans drawn up by the league which could allow the partial return of fans to stadiums from mid-September, despite the coronavirus pandemic.

Football clubs in Germany's top two divisions on Tuesday agreed to plans drawn up by the league which could allow the partial return of fans to stadiums from mid-September, despite the coronavirus pandemic. Under the plans proposed by the German Football League (DFL) for the new season, which starts on September 18, the clubs agreed on four key points. Fans would only be allowed to sit, tickets would be personalised so spectators could be traced, alcohol at matches would be banned until October and there will be no away fans until the end of the year. The plan is however subject to approval by German authorities, with health ministers of the country's 16 states to meet on Monday over the issue. Germany has recorded 211,281 cases and 9,156 deaths due to the coronavirus, and in April began easing curbs imposed to halt transmission. But fears are growing over a second wave as daily number of new infections was steadily climbing again, in recent weeks hitting levels not seen since May. "The priority in Germany at the moment is not full stadiums, but people's health," said Christian Seifert, chief executive of the Bundesliga after a virtual meeting of the clubs. "When and how many spectators are allowed to return to the stadiums is not a decision for the DFL to make." The league's plans for fans to return has been the subject of debate among politicians and virologists in Germany. Several fan groups have also criticised the plans, fearing long-term restrictions of their rights. However, the league insists any changes would only be temporary while the pandemic continues to be a factor. Seifert says the rate of infection must be taken into account and "should by no means be underestimated". "Professional football can only return to normality in stages," he added. "We will have to regain normality in small steps. We cannot go from zero to 100." After a two-month hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the final nine rounds of last season's Bundesliga matches were completed behind closed doors in late June. Amid tight hygiene measures, Germany was the first country to restart its league season which paved the way for other top European leagues to follow suit. However, Bundesliga clubs lose millions of euros in match day revenue for each game played in front of empty stands and are eager to welcome fans back. For example, Borussia Dortmund, who finished second to champions Bayern Munich last season, are planning to have up to 15,000 fans for home games next season. On a typical match day in Dortmund, over 81,000 spectators would fill Signal Iduna Park. However, Seifert said even a figure of 10,000 at matches would be hard to justify with large events banned in Germany until October 31. "Nobody at the DFL will require a specific number of fans," he said.

German football clubs agree plans to allow fans to return next month

Eoin Morgan on Tuesday surpassed former Indian captain MS Dhoni to become the player with most sixes in international cricket as captain. Morgan blasted one over the square-leg boundary to achieve the feat as he now has 212 sixes to his name whereas Dhoni had 211 while captaining Indian cricket team.&nbsp;

After Morgan (212*) and Dhoni (211), former Australian captain Ricky Ponting headlines the list with 171 sixes while former New Zealand skipper Brendon McCullum had 170 maximums under his belt. Moreover, Morgan has taken just 163 matches to shatter the record books.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/five-great-england-pakistan-flare-ups-318040" hreflang="en">Five great England-Pakistan flare-ups</a>

<h2>Most sixes as captain in international cricket:</h2>

212 - Eoin Morgan (163 matches)

211 - MS Dhoni (332)

171 - Ricky Ponting (324)

170 - Brendon McCullum (121)

135 - AB de Villiers (124)

England captain Morgan has managed to continue his rich run of form since 2018 and has been constantly among the runs for his side. Not only did he led England to their maiden 50-over World Cup triumph in 2019, the southpaw played some crucial knocks in the showpiece tournament including a splendid 148-run knock against Afghanistan.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-pak-misbah-ul-haq-pakistan-must-be-ready-from-word-go-against-england-317894" hreflang="en">Misbah-ul-Haq: Pakistan must be ready from word 'go' against England</a>

Morgan was among the runs in the first ODI against Ireland as well where his 36 not-out helped England start the series on a winning note. Following a rare duck in the second ODI, Morgan came strong in the final match and completed his half-century in just 39 deliveries.&nbsp;

England would be eyeing a clean-sweep against Ireland after winning first two matches of the series.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Eoin Morgan on Tuesday surpassed former Indian captain MS Dhoni to become the player with most sixes in international cricket as captain. Morgan blasted one over the square-leg boundary to achieve the feat as he now has 212 sixes to his name whereas Dhoni had 211 while captaining Indian cricket team.

Eoin Morgan on Tuesday surpassed former Indian captain MS Dhoni to become the player with most sixes in international cricket as captain. Morgan blasted one over the square-leg boundary to achieve the feat as he now has 212 sixes to his name whereas Dhoni had 211 while captaining Indian cricket team. After Morgan (212*) and Dhoni (211), former Australian captain Ricky Ponting headlines the list with 171 sixes while former New Zealand skipper Brendon McCullum had 170 maximums under his belt. Moreover, Morgan has taken just 163 matches to shatter the record books. ALSO READ: Five great England-Pakistan flare-ups Most sixes as captain in international cricket: 212 - Eoin Morgan (163 matches) 211 - MS Dhoni (332) 171 - Ricky Ponting (324) 170 - Brendon McCullum (121) 135 - AB de Villiers (124) England captain Morgan has managed to continue his rich run of form since 2018 and has been constantly among the runs for his side. Not only did he led England to their maiden 50-over World Cup triumph in 2019, the southpaw played some crucial knocks in the showpiece tournament including a splendid 148-run knock against Afghanistan. ALSO READ: Misbah-ul-Haq: Pakistan must be ready from word 'go' against England Morgan was among the runs in the first ODI against Ireland as well where his 36 not-out helped England start the series on a winning note. Following a rare duck in the second ODI, Morgan came strong in the final match and completed his half-century in just 39 deliveries. England would be eyeing a clean-sweep against Ireland after winning first two matches of the series.

Eoin Morgan surpasses MS Dhoni to achieve major record in international cricket

Spain’s World Cup-winning captain and goalkeeper Ike Casillas on Tuesday announced his retirement while ending a trophy-laded career spanning over two decades. The former Real Madrid skipper had called time on his five-year spell with Portuguese club FC Porto in June 2020 after his contract with the club expired.

Aged 39, Casillas has not played competitive football since suffering a heart attack during a training session last year.&nbsp;

"The important thing is the path you travel and the people who accompany you, not where it takes you, because that comes with work and effort alone," Casillas said on Twitter.

“I think I can say, without hesitation, that the path I have taken is the one I dreamt about."

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Lo importante es el camino que recorres y la gente que te acompaña, no el destino al que te lleva, porque eso con trabajo y esfuerzo, llega solo y creo que puedo decir, sin dudar, que ha sido el camino y el destino soñado <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Grac1as?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Grac1as</a> <a href="https://t.co/xb8ucs9REh">pic.twitter.com/xb8ucs9REh</a>
— Iker Casillas (@IkerCasillas) <a href="https://twitter.com/IkerCasillas/status/1290604618205073410?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 4, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Casillas was majorly handed a role as Porto’s technical staff while being also included in the first-team squad. However, the Spaniard never made into the matchday squad.

He led Spain’s golden generation that won World Cup in 2010 as well as two back-to-back Euro in 2008 and 2012, making it one of the greatest football teams of all time.

The left-footed shotstopper made his senior debut in 1999 after coming through Real Madrid’s youth system at the age of 18 and went on to make a whopping 725 appearance for Los Blancos in over 16 seasons, winning five La Liga titles and UEFA Champions League three times.

Casillas was never given a farewell he deserved in Real Madrid as he made a tearful exit in 2015 after announcing his departure from his boyhood club, a move for which the Spanish club was heavily criticized.&nbsp;

"The best goalkeeper in the history of Real Madrid and Spanish football joined us at the age of 9," Real Madrid said in a statement here on Tuesday.

“He was formed here and defended our shirt for 25 years, becoming one of our most emblematic captains of all time. Iker Casillas earned the love of madridismo and is a symbol of the values that Real Madrid represents.”

Casillas holds the record for most appearances in UEFA Champions League – 177 – as well as most clean sheets in the history of the competition – 57.

Spain’s World Cup-winning captain and goalkeeper Ike Casillas on Tuesday announced his retirement while ending a trophy-laded career spanning over two decades. The former Real Madrid skipper had called time on his five-year spell with Portuguese club FC Porto in June 2020 after his contract with the club expired.

Spain’s World Cup-winning captain and goalkeeper Ike Casillas on Tuesday announced his retirement while ending a trophy-laded career spanning over two decades. The former Real Madrid skipper had called time on his five-year spell with Portuguese club FC Porto in June 2020 after his contract with the club expired. Aged 39, Casillas has not played competitive football since suffering a heart attack during a training session last year. "The important thing is the path you travel and the people who accompany you, not where it takes you, because that comes with work and effort alone," Casillas said on Twitter. “I think I can say, without hesitation, that the path I have taken is the one I dreamt about." Lo importante es el camino que recorres y la gente que te acompaña, no el destino al que te lleva, porque eso con trabajo y esfuerzo, llega solo y creo que puedo decir, sin dudar, que ha sido el camino y el destino soñado #Grac1as pic.twitter.com/xb8ucs9REh — Iker Casillas (@IkerCasillas) August 4, 2020 × Casillas was majorly handed a role as Porto’s technical staff while being also included in the first-team squad. However, the Spaniard never made into the matchday squad. He led Spain’s golden generation that won World Cup in 2010 as well as two back-to-back Euro in 2008 and 2012, making it one of the greatest football teams of all time. The left-footed shotstopper made his senior debut in 1999 after coming through Real Madrid’s youth system at the age of 18 and went on to make a whopping 725 appearance for Los Blancos in over 16 seasons, winning five La Liga titles and UEFA Champions League three times. Casillas was never given a farewell he deserved in Real Madrid as he made a tearful exit in 2015 after announcing his departure from his boyhood club, a move for which the Spanish club was heavily criticized. "The best goalkeeper in the history of Real Madrid and Spanish football joined us at the age of 9," Real Madrid said in a statement here on Tuesday. “He was formed here and defended our shirt for 25 years, becoming one of our most emblematic captains of all time. Iker Casillas earned the love of madridismo and is a symbol of the values that Real Madrid represents.” Casillas holds the record for most appearances in UEFA Champions League – 177 – as well as most clean sheets in the history of the competition – 57.

Spain and Real Madrid legend Iker Casillas announces retirement

Australia's October Twenty20 series against the West Indies was called off Tuesday, as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect the international sporting calendar.

It follows the postponement of the T20 World Cup, scheduled for October-November in Australia, and this month's one-day international series against Zimbabwe.

Cricket Australia said the&nbsp;three-match West Indies series had been intended as a warm-up to the T20 World Cup, but could no longer serve that purpose.

"In light of this&nbsp;development... it has been agreed to postpone the matches," CA said in a statement.

The series will be take place ahead of the rescheduled T20 World Cup, on dates yet to be decided in either 2021 or 2022.

Australia is currently struggling with a second wave of coronavirus infections and its international borders remain closed, with arrivals required to undergo 14-day quarantine.

Despite the logistical difficulties, Cricket Australia insists a money-spinning four-Test series against India in December-January will proceed.

They have been less vocal about the fate of the first-ever Test match between Australia and Afghanistan, which is due to be held in Perth in late November.

Australia's October Twenty20 series against the West Indies was called off Tuesday, as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect the international sporting calendar.

Australia's October Twenty20 series against the West Indies was called off Tuesday, as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect the international sporting calendar. It follows the postponement of the T20 World Cup, scheduled for October-November in Australia, and this month's one-day international series against Zimbabwe. Cricket Australia said the three-match West Indies series had been intended as a warm-up to the T20 World Cup, but could no longer serve that purpose. "In light of this development... it has been agreed to postpone the matches," CA said in a statement. The series will be take place ahead of the rescheduled T20 World Cup, on dates yet to be decided in either 2021 or 2022. Australia is currently struggling with a second wave of coronavirus infections and its international borders remain closed, with arrivals required to undergo 14-day quarantine. Despite the logistical difficulties, Cricket Australia insists a money-spinning four-Test series against India in December-January will proceed. They have been less vocal about the fate of the first-ever Test match between Australia and Afghanistan, which is due to be held in Perth in late November.

West Indies T20 series in Australia called off, paves way for IPL-bound players

Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) has welcomed the move of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chinese-sponsors-vivo-likely-to-make-ipl-exit-as-panic-grips-bcci-report-318112">Chinese mobile giant Vivo pulling out as title sponsors of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a>. Praveen Khandelwal, secretary-general of CAIT, on Tuesday said the pressure applied against the Chinese mobile manufacturer by CAIT has forced them to pull of the cash-rich T20 tournament.

As per reports, Vivo has decided to pull out of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl?page=1">IPL 2020</a> as title sponsor due to political tensions between India and China. The negative trend on social media following the announcement of IPL 2020 dates also played a crucial role in Vivo pulling it out of the deal. However, the Chinese mobile giant has told the BCCI that it would be open to coming back in next edition of IPL, in 2021, in a bid to honour the contract which runs until 2023.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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Succumbing to the pressure applied by <a href="https://twitter.com/CAITIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CAITIndia</a> over the last two days &amp; a strong <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/boycottChina?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#boycottChina</a> sentiment built over the last 45 days, Chinese telecom giant Vivo has decided to pull out as title sponsor for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2020</a>. This is a great victory for all citizens.Byte of <a href="https://twitter.com/praveendel?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@praveendel</a>🇮🇳 <a href="https://t.co/PMNbl9LEXZ">pic.twitter.com/PMNbl9LEXZ</a>
— Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) (@CAITIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/CAITIndia/status/1290613696473886722?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 4, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Chinese mobile manufacturer Vivo pays the BCCI a whopping Rs 440 crore annually for a five-year-deal which they sealed in 2017 after successfully bidding a mind-boggling Rs 2,199 crores in 2017. It is also being reported that Vivo was looking for a pay-cut for the 13th edition of IPL but the BCCI didn’t agree to it.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipls-million-dollar-chinese-connection-317927" hreflang="en">IPL's million-dollar Chinese connection</a>

Now as things stand, BCCI is set to have a new title sponsor for IPL 2020, which is scheduled to be hosted by the UAE from September 19 to November 10.

Whereas, Khandelwal has also urged the BCCI to sever ties with all Chinese companies associated with the IPL or BCCI. Other companies involved in the IPL with Chinese links are Paytm, Swiggy, Dream11. Even franchises have attracted Chinese sponsorship.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chinese-sponsors-vivo-likely-to-make-ipl-exit-as-panic-grips-bcci-report-318112" hreflang="en">Chinese sponsors Vivo likely to make IPL exit as panic grips BCCI: Report</a>

The Indian government has already banned 59 Chinese mobile applications after 20 Indian soldiers were killed in the Galwan Valley clash on June 15. The incident was the biggest confrontation between the two militaries since 1967. 
&nbsp;

Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) has welcomed the move of Chinese mobile giant Vivo pulling out as title sponsors of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020. Praveen Khandelwal, secretary-general of CAIT, on Tuesday said the pressure applied against the Chinese mobile manufacturer by CAIT has forced them to pull of the cash-rich T20 tournament.

Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) has welcomed the move of Chinese mobile giant Vivo pulling out as title sponsors of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020. Praveen Khandelwal, secretary-general of CAIT, on Tuesday said the pressure applied against the Chinese mobile manufacturer by CAIT has forced them to pull of the cash-rich T20 tournament. As per reports, Vivo has decided to pull out of the IPL 2020 as title sponsor due to political tensions between India and China. The negative trend on social media following the announcement of IPL 2020 dates also played a crucial role in Vivo pulling it out of the deal. However, the Chinese mobile giant has told the BCCI that it would be open to coming back in next edition of IPL, in 2021, in a bid to honour the contract which runs until 2023. Succumbing to the pressure applied by @CAITIndia over the last two days & a strong #boycottChina sentiment built over the last 45 days, Chinese telecom giant Vivo has decided to pull out as title sponsor for #IPL2020. This is a great victory for all citizens.Byte of @praveendel🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/PMNbl9LEXZ — Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) (@CAITIndia) August 4, 2020 × Chinese mobile manufacturer Vivo pays the BCCI a whopping Rs 440 crore annually for a five-year-deal which they sealed in 2017 after successfully bidding a mind-boggling Rs 2,199 crores in 2017. It is also being reported that Vivo was looking for a pay-cut for the 13th edition of IPL but the BCCI didn’t agree to it. ALSO READ: IPL's million-dollar Chinese connection Now as things stand, BCCI is set to have a new title sponsor for IPL 2020, which is scheduled to be hosted by the UAE from September 19 to November 10. Whereas, Khandelwal has also urged the BCCI to sever ties with all Chinese companies associated with the IPL or BCCI. Other companies involved in the IPL with Chinese links are Paytm, Swiggy, Dream11. Even franchises have attracted Chinese sponsorship. ALSO READ: Chinese sponsors Vivo likely to make IPL exit as panic grips BCCI: Report The Indian government has already banned 59 Chinese mobile applications after 20 Indian soldiers were killed in the Galwan Valley clash on June 15. The incident was the biggest confrontation between the two militaries since 1967.

IPL 2020: Confederation of All India Traders welcomes VIVO withdrawal as title sponsor

As soon as the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a> was confirmed after the completion of IPL Governing Council meeting on Sunday, anger grew on social media platforms regarding the sponsors for the tournament, especially the ones with Chinese links, given the political tensions between India and China. Now, IPL and Vivo are set to sever ties, at least for the 13th edition of IPL, given the outrage and&nbsp;negativity on social media platforms.&nbsp;

While fans were happy to know that the best T20 tournament in the world is going to take place after continuous postponement due to COVID-19 pandemic, many were left disappointed to know that the BCCI decided to continue its contract with Chinese companies, including the title sponsor – Vivo – a Chinese mobile manufacturing giant.&nbsp;

As per a report in TOI, one of the franchise called up other seven franchises on Monday evening to inform them that the league’s title sponsors – Vivo – are on the cusp on exiting, at least for the 13th edition of IPL, scheduled to take place from September 19 to November 10 in the UAE.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipls-million-dollar-chinese-connection-317927" hreflang="en">IPL's million-dollar Chinese connection</a>

Vivo India has been the central of widespread criticism on social media after the BCCI said it would be retaining all its sponsors for the 2020 edition of the tournament. The BCCI too was hit by criticism.

Furthermore, the Indian government has already banned a speficin number of Chinese applications given the border skirmish between the two countries. The report also stated that the Indian board is “miffed” that one franchise took it upon itself to convery the development without consulting it with the BCCI.

"Was it not the franchise's duty to consult with BCCI first?" ask those in the know as per TOI.

Now, the immediate focus of the BCCI shifts to finding a suitable replacement for Vivo, should the exit be confirmed. An official decision is likely in the next 24 hours but the franchises have been left worrid about compensation.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-exclusive-australias-josh-hazlewood-on-ipl-2020-csk-and-ms-dhoni-and-india-series-316501" hreflang="en">WION Exclusive: Australia's Josh Hazlewood on IPL 2020, CSK and MS Dhoni and India series</a>

Vivo India had bagged the IPL title sponsorship rights in 2017 for Rs 2199 crore, committing to pay the league approximately Rs 440 crore every season, for a five-year deal.

As per the report, Vivo India are also looking to walk away from the contract given the massive negativity towards the brand in the Indian social media circuit.

"Even if the Board can get a replacement at 50% of the value, it'll be an achievement. Anything more than that will actually be a shot in the arm. Let's hope things settle amicably. The IPL has been planned and everything's set," industry stakeholders opined as per the report. 
&nbsp;

As soon as the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 was confirmed after the completion of IPL Governing Council meeting on Sunday, anger grew on social media platforms regarding the sponsors for the tournament, especially the ones with Chinese links, given the political tensions between India and China.

As soon as the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 was confirmed after the completion of IPL Governing Council meeting on Sunday, anger grew on social media platforms regarding the sponsors for the tournament, especially the ones with Chinese links, given the political tensions between India and China. Now, IPL and Vivo are set to sever ties, at least for the 13th edition of IPL, given the outrage and negativity on social media platforms. While fans were happy to know that the best T20 tournament in the world is going to take place after continuous postponement due to COVID-19 pandemic, many were left disappointed to know that the BCCI decided to continue its contract with Chinese companies, including the title sponsor – Vivo – a Chinese mobile manufacturing giant. As per a report in TOI, one of the franchise called up other seven franchises on Monday evening to inform them that the league’s title sponsors – Vivo – are on the cusp on exiting, at least for the 13th edition of IPL, scheduled to take place from September 19 to November 10 in the UAE. ALSO READ: IPL's million-dollar Chinese connection Vivo India has been the central of widespread criticism on social media after the BCCI said it would be retaining all its sponsors for the 2020 edition of the tournament. The BCCI too was hit by criticism. Furthermore, the Indian government has already banned a speficin number of Chinese applications given the border skirmish between the two countries. The report also stated that the Indian board is “miffed” that one franchise took it upon itself to convery the development without consulting it with the BCCI. "Was it not the franchise's duty to consult with BCCI first?" ask those in the know as per TOI. Now, the immediate focus of the BCCI shifts to finding a suitable replacement for Vivo, should the exit be confirmed. An official decision is likely in the next 24 hours but the franchises have been left worrid about compensation. ALSO READ: WION Exclusive: Australia's Josh Hazlewood on IPL 2020, CSK and MS Dhoni and India series Vivo India had bagged the IPL title sponsorship rights in 2017 for Rs 2199 crore, committing to pay the league approximately Rs 440 crore every season, for a five-year deal. As per the report, Vivo India are also looking to walk away from the contract given the massive negativity towards the brand in the Indian social media circuit. "Even if the Board can get a replacement at 50% of the value, it'll be an achievement. Anything more than that will actually be a shot in the arm. Let's hope things settle amicably. The IPL has been planned and everything's set," industry stakeholders opined as per the report.

Chinese sponsors Vivo likely to make IPL exit as panic grips BCCI: Report

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Rajasthan News in Hindi: In-depth coverage of Rajasthan Crime, Political News, Education, Rajasthan Weather Update and Latest Rajasthan News on Zee News Rajasthan.