Former WWE Superstar turned Hollywood actor Dwayne Johnson has teamed up with his ex-wife Dany Garcia and investment company RedBird Capital Partners to buy the XFL for $15 million, hours before the bankrupt American football league was set to be auctioned off.

Johsnon, Garcia and RedBird Capitals Partners were selected as the winning bidder for “substantially all of the assets of Alpha Entertainment LLC” - parent company of the XFL.

The XFL, a reboot of the 2001 league, had filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in April, one month after it had to call off the remainder of the season due to COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-club-that-gave-usain-bolt-trial-chance-face-uncertain-future-318068" hreflang="en">Australian club that gave Usain Bolt trial chance face uncertain future</a>

“We are grateful for today’s outcome. This is a Hollywood ending to our sale process and it is an exciting new chapter for the league,” XFL president and COO Jeffrey Pollack said in a statement on Monday.

“(They) are a dream team ownership group and the XFL is in the best possible hands going forward.”

However, the transcation to buy the XFL is subject to bankruptcy court approval at a hearing on Friday. XFL 2.0 is the brainchild of Vince McMahon and was the second attempt by the WWE CEO to provide an NFL alternative to American football lovers.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-owner-speaks-of-pride-after-extraordinary-trophy-run-318045" hreflang="en">Liverpool owner speaks of pride after 'extraordinary' trophy run</a>

Popularly known as ‘The Rock’, Johnson is famous for his roles in popular movie franchises such as the ‘Fast &amp; Furious’ and ‘Jumanji’.

“With gratitude and passion I’ve built a career with my own two hands and will apply these callouses to our @xfl2020 brand,” Johnson wrote on Twitter. “Excited to create something special for the fans!”

The 48-year-old was a college football player at the University of Miami who went undrafted in the 1995 NFL Draft before he eventually switched to wrestling. 
&nbsp;

Former WWE Superstar turned Hollywood actor Dwayne Johnson has teamed up with his ex-wife Dany Garcia and investment company RedBird Capital Partners to buy the XFL for $15 million, hours before the bankrupt American football league was set to be auctioned off.

Former WWE Superstar turned Hollywood actor Dwayne Johnson has teamed up with his ex-wife Dany Garcia and investment company RedBird Capital Partners to buy the XFL for $15 million, hours before the bankrupt American football league was set to be auctioned off. Johsnon, Garcia and RedBird Capitals Partners were selected as the winning bidder for “substantially all of the assets of Alpha Entertainment LLC” - parent company of the XFL. The XFL, a reboot of the 2001 league, had filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in April, one month after it had to call off the remainder of the season due to COVID-19 pandemic. ALSO READ: Australian club that gave Usain Bolt trial chance face uncertain future “We are grateful for today’s outcome. This is a Hollywood ending to our sale process and it is an exciting new chapter for the league,” XFL president and COO Jeffrey Pollack said in a statement on Monday. “(They) are a dream team ownership group and the XFL is in the best possible hands going forward.” However, the transcation to buy the XFL is subject to bankruptcy court approval at a hearing on Friday. XFL 2.0 is the brainchild of Vince McMahon and was the second attempt by the WWE CEO to provide an NFL alternative to American football lovers. ALSO READ: Liverpool owner speaks of pride after 'extraordinary' trophy run Popularly known as ‘The Rock’, Johnson is famous for his roles in popular movie franchises such as the ‘Fast & Furious’ and ‘Jumanji’. “With gratitude and passion I’ve built a career with my own two hands and will apply these callouses to our @xfl2020 brand,” Johnson wrote on Twitter. “Excited to create something special for the fans!” The 48-year-old was a college football player at the University of Miami who went undrafted in the 1995 NFL Draft before he eventually switched to wrestling.

American football: Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson, Garcia and RedBird buy XFL for $15 million

England have already sealed the three-match ODI series against Ireland and the Eoin Morgan-led outfit would be eyeing a clean sweep when they take to the field at the Rose Bowl in Southampton on Tuesday for the final match of the series.&nbsp;

Ireland after getting thumped in the first ODI did put up a fight in the second match but England’s long-tail and depth in the batting order helped them overcome the top-order failure to win the match comfortably, courtesy a splendid partnership between Sam Billings and David Willey.&nbsp;

England might make a few changes to their playing XI while giving opportunities to those who haven’t played in the series so far. For Ireland, injuries have come thick and fast and possibilities are high that the visitors could play some fresh faces in the playing XI.&nbsp;

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>England vs Ireland 3rd ODI: All you need to know</h2>

When will the England vs Ireland 3rd 1st ODI begin?

The England vs Ireland 3rd ODI will begin at 6:30 PM IST on August 4. The toss will take place at 6:00 PM IST.

Where will the England vs Ireland 3rd ODI be played?

The England vs Ireland 3rd ODI match will be held at The Rose Bowl, Southampton.

Which channel will telecast the England vs Ireland 3rd ODI?

The England vs Ireland 3rd ODI will have a live telecast on Sony SIX and Sony Six HD in India

How to watch the live streaming of England vs Ireland 3rd ODI?

The live streaming of England vs Ireland 3rd ODI will be available on Sony’s streaming platform. 
&nbsp;

England have already sealed the three-match ODI series against Ireland and the Eoin Morgan-led outfit would be eyeing a clean sweep when they take to the field at the Rose Bowl in Southampton on Tuesday for the final match of the series.

England have already sealed the three-match ODI series against Ireland and the Eoin Morgan-led outfit would be eyeing a clean sweep when they take to the field at the Rose Bowl in Southampton on Tuesday for the final match of the series. Ireland after getting thumped in the first ODI did put up a fight in the second match but England’s long-tail and depth in the batting order helped them overcome the top-order failure to win the match comfortably, courtesy a splendid partnership between Sam Billings and David Willey. England might make a few changes to their playing XI while giving opportunities to those who haven’t played in the series so far. For Ireland, injuries have come thick and fast and possibilities are high that the visitors could play some fresh faces in the playing XI. ALSO READ: Five great England-Pakistan flare-ups England vs Ireland 3rd ODI: All you need to know When will the England vs Ireland 3rd 1st ODI begin? The England vs Ireland 3rd ODI will begin at 6:30 PM IST on August 4. The toss will take place at 6:00 PM IST. Where will the England vs Ireland 3rd ODI be played? The England vs Ireland 3rd ODI match will be held at The Rose Bowl, Southampton. Which channel will telecast the England vs Ireland 3rd ODI? The England vs Ireland 3rd ODI will have a live telecast on Sony SIX and Sony Six HD in India How to watch the live streaming of England vs Ireland 3rd ODI? The live streaming of England vs Ireland 3rd ODI will be available on Sony’s streaming platform.

England vs Ireland, 3rd ODI Live Streaming: When and where to watch ENG vs IRE match?

Former Australian batsman Michael Slater reckons that Indian captain Virat Kohli has bonded well with head coach Ravi Shastri as they both are of strong personalities. Under Kohli and Shastri, India have achieved greater success in recent years including the historic Test series win Down Under against Australia in 2018/19.

Slater is of the view that both Kohli and Shastri have their hearts on their sleeve while adding the latter is a big personality. The former Aussie batter further said that the duo has worked so well and their relationship has helped Indian cricket’s tempo.

“Ravi and Virat probably challenge each other enough but there is such respect between them that it works,” Slater said on the show Cricket Connected.&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>

“If Ravi is nodding his head when Virat is speaking and vice versa, the rest of them even if they don’t agree would be nodding their heads,” Slater added.

“Both of them have their heart on their sleeve. I have worked with Ravi for so long in the commentary box, so I have got to know him and he was one of my great mates when we worked together. He is a big personality,” he further said.

“But obviously there are subtle differences that allows them to really work well together. But it has been a great synergy and a great relationship and I think it has helped Indian cricket’s tempo,” he added.

Whereas former Indian pacer Ashish Nehra is of the view that their relationship work because Shastri gives ample space to Kohli to express himself.

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-saliva-ban-to-red-cards-for-coughing-changes-brought-by-covid-19-in-the-world-of-sports-317914">From saliva ban to red cards for coughing: Changes brought by COVID-19 in the world of sports</a>

“Ravi Shastri gives Virat Kohli his space, that he needs. Virat Kohli knows the type of person Ravi Shastri is and what can be extracted from him,” Nehra said on the same show.

“Ravi Shastri is a great motivator, that is Ravi bhai’s strength. He gives you a lot of confidence. If you are stuck in quicksand till your neck, he will ask you to push with your hands twice and you would come out. Virat Kohli also likes leading from the front. Both have similar personalities. So, it is very good between the two of them,” he added. 
&nbsp;

Former Australian batsman Michael Slater reckons that Indian captain Virat Kohli has bonded well with head coach Ravi Shastri as they both are of strong personalities.

Former Australian batsman Michael Slater reckons that Indian captain Virat Kohli has bonded well with head coach Ravi Shastri as they both are of strong personalities. Under Kohli and Shastri, India have achieved greater success in recent years including the historic Test series win Down Under against Australia in 2018/19. Slater is of the view that both Kohli and Shastri have their hearts on their sleeve while adding the latter is a big personality. The former Aussie batter further said that the duo has worked so well and their relationship has helped Indian cricket’s tempo. “Ravi and Virat probably challenge each other enough but there is such respect between them that it works,” Slater said on the show Cricket Connected. ALSO READ: IPL's million-dollar Chinese connection “If Ravi is nodding his head when Virat is speaking and vice versa, the rest of them even if they don’t agree would be nodding their heads,” Slater added. “Both of them have their heart on their sleeve. I have worked with Ravi for so long in the commentary box, so I have got to know him and he was one of my great mates when we worked together. He is a big personality,” he further said. “But obviously there are subtle differences that allows them to really work well together. But it has been a great synergy and a great relationship and I think it has helped Indian cricket’s tempo,” he added. Whereas former Indian pacer Ashish Nehra is of the view that their relationship work because Shastri gives ample space to Kohli to express himself. IN PICS | From saliva ban to red cards for coughing: Changes brought by COVID-19 in the world of sports “Ravi Shastri gives Virat Kohli his space, that he needs. Virat Kohli knows the type of person Ravi Shastri is and what can be extracted from him,” Nehra said on the same show. “Ravi Shastri is a great motivator, that is Ravi bhai’s strength. He gives you a lot of confidence. If you are stuck in quicksand till your neck, he will ask you to push with your hands twice and you would come out. Virat Kohli also likes leading from the front. Both have similar personalities. So, it is very good between the two of them,” he added.

‘Both have their...’: Michael Slater on why Virat Kohli-Ravi Shastri is a hit pair

Australian football club Central Coast Mariners, who gave a chance to Olympic sprint legend Usain Bolt for the much-talked-about trial in 2018, face an uncertain future with its chairman/owners revealing that he is leaving the club.

Mike Charlesworth, who helped Central Coast Mariners from financial ruin in 2013, said he would sell majority of his stake or hand it back to the A-League if he could find a buyer.&nbsp;

“After 10 years of involvement with the Mariners, I feel the time is right for me to now step aside and to look for a new investor to take on the ownership of the Club,” the Briton said in a club statement.

The Mariners, who defeated Melbourne Victory 3-2 in Western Sydney on Monday, are finishing bottom for the fourth time in five campaigns.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-owner-speaks-of-pride-after-extraordinary-trophy-run-318045" hreflang="en">Liverpool owner speaks of pride after 'extraordinary' trophy run</a>

However, Mariners Chief Executive Shaun Mielekamp is “optimistic” that a buyer would be found to keep the team on the Central Coast but conceded the future was unknown.

Cherlesworth’s chairmanship commenced in 2013 with an immediate triumph as the Mariners claimed the maiden trophy under Graham Arnold. But since then, it has been a downward spiral for the club with the chairman angering the fans for running the team on a shoestring budget.&nbsp;

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The Mariners enjoyed a brief surge of global publicity when eight-times Olympic champion Bolt came to the sleepy Central Coast in eastern New South Wales state but the Jamaican was unable to agree terms and left after a few months.

England-based Charlesworth told Australian broadcaster SBS that he had tried to bring in investment from European clubs but the COVID-19 pandemic had changed everything.

“Everyone is suffering from top to bottom but even more so the small to medium-sized clubs,” he said.

“The global market has been very hard hit.”

(With inputs from Reuters) 
&nbsp;

Australian football club Central Coast Mariners, who gave a chance to Olympic sprint legend Usain Bolt for the much-talked-about trial in 2018, face an uncertain future with its chairman/owners revealing that he is leaving the club.

Australian football club Central Coast Mariners, who gave a chance to Olympic sprint legend Usain Bolt for the much-talked-about trial in 2018, face an uncertain future with its chairman/owners revealing that he is leaving the club. Mike Charlesworth, who helped Central Coast Mariners from financial ruin in 2013, said he would sell majority of his stake or hand it back to the A-League if he could find a buyer. “After 10 years of involvement with the Mariners, I feel the time is right for me to now step aside and to look for a new investor to take on the ownership of the Club,” the Briton said in a club statement. The Mariners, who defeated Melbourne Victory 3-2 in Western Sydney on Monday, are finishing bottom for the fourth time in five campaigns. ALSO READ: Liverpool owner speaks of pride after 'extraordinary' trophy run However, Mariners Chief Executive Shaun Mielekamp is “optimistic” that a buyer would be found to keep the team on the Central Coast but conceded the future was unknown. Cherlesworth’s chairmanship commenced in 2013 with an immediate triumph as the Mariners claimed the maiden trophy under Graham Arnold. But since then, it has been a downward spiral for the club with the chairman angering the fans for running the team on a shoestring budget. ALSO READ: Spurs' Rose says tired of police stopping him to ask if car is stolen The Mariners enjoyed a brief surge of global publicity when eight-times Olympic champion Bolt came to the sleepy Central Coast in eastern New South Wales state but the Jamaican was unable to agree terms and left after a few months. England-based Charlesworth told Australian broadcaster SBS that he had tried to bring in investment from European clubs but the COVID-19 pandemic had changed everything. “Everyone is suffering from top to bottom but even more so the small to medium-sized clubs,” he said. “The global market has been very hard hit.” (With inputs from Reuters)

Australian club that gave Usain Bolt trial chance face uncertain future

FIFA president Gianni Infantino will continue in his post, world football's governing body insisted Sunday, as they blasted the launch of Swiss criminal proceedings against him.

"There was and is absolutely no reason to open any investigation because nothing remotely criminal has happened and there is nothing at all to suggest any form of criminal wrongdoing," FIFA said in a media release.

"The FIFA president will continue to fully assume his functions within FIFA and fulfil his duties and will continue to cooperate with the authorities in Switzerland and around the world."

Special prosecutor Stefan Keller started proceedings on Thursday as part of an investigation into suspected collusion between Infantino and Switzerland's attorney general Michael Lauber, the country's top prosecutor.

Lauber, who offered his resignation on July 24, was in charge of Switzerland's probe into the towering corruption scandal that exploded at the heart of Zurich-based FIFA in 2015.

But he was forced to recuse himself from the investigation in June 2019, following media revelations that he had held several undeclared meetings with Infantino during the probe.

Swiss authorities said Keller "reached the conclusion that... there are indications of criminal conduct" in relation to meetings between Infantino, Lauber and another official, Rinaldo Arnold, in 2016 and 2017.

"This concerns abuse of public office, breach of official secrecy, assisting offenders and incitement to these acts," the authorities said.

<h2>- Categorical denial -</h2>

FIFA hit back on Sunday, accusing Keller of having brought forward no legal grounds for his probe.

"Keller has presented no serious elements or legal basis for the opening of any investigation and lacks any detail as to the substance of the case.

"FIFA and the FIFA president categorically deny any implication or suggestion that the FIFA president would ever have attempted to exert any form of improper influence" on Lauber.

FIFA said it was "not illegal anywhere in the world" to meet a prosecutor.

It said the meeting between Infantino and Lauber was "entirely logical" given that the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) was conducting investigations in more than 20 cases in FIFA-related matters.

The organisation said such meetings or contacts were "routine" during an investigation.

It said the point of the meeting was to offer FIFA's "full support" for the investigations, and Infantino attended in "good faith".

"FIFA was trying to restore trust in the institution at that time," it said, finding itself "in a disastrous situation and at risk of being designated a criminal organisation by the US authorities".

FIFA said that "in no way whatsoever" were the meetings secret, and they had been arranged by the OAG.

<h2>- 'No obligation' to keep minutes -</h2>

FIFA claimed that meeting a prosecutor was "the best guarantee that any such meeting is legitimate".

It also insisted there was "no obligation" on the FIFA president to keep minutes of such meetings.

Switzerland has pursued a number of cases since a raid on a luxury hotel in Zurich in May 2015 led to the arrests of a several FIFA executives and exposed an allegedly corrupt underbelly in world football.

In total, more than 20 FIFA proceedings have been opened in Switzerland over the past five years into allegations of corruption and vote-buying, and allegations over the awarding of television rights contracts.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino will continue in his post, world football's governing body insisted Sunday, as they blasted the launch of Swiss criminal proceedings against him.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino will continue in his post, world football's governing body insisted Sunday, as they blasted the launch of Swiss criminal proceedings against him. "There was and is absolutely no reason to open any investigation because nothing remotely criminal has happened and there is nothing at all to suggest any form of criminal wrongdoing," FIFA said in a media release. "The FIFA president will continue to fully assume his functions within FIFA and fulfil his duties and will continue to cooperate with the authorities in Switzerland and around the world." Special prosecutor Stefan Keller started proceedings on Thursday as part of an investigation into suspected collusion between Infantino and Switzerland's attorney general Michael Lauber, the country's top prosecutor. Lauber, who offered his resignation on July 24, was in charge of Switzerland's probe into the towering corruption scandal that exploded at the heart of Zurich-based FIFA in 2015. But he was forced to recuse himself from the investigation in June 2019, following media revelations that he had held several undeclared meetings with Infantino during the probe. Swiss authorities said Keller "reached the conclusion that... there are indications of criminal conduct" in relation to meetings between Infantino, Lauber and another official, Rinaldo Arnold, in 2016 and 2017. "This concerns abuse of public office, breach of official secrecy, assisting offenders and incitement to these acts," the authorities said. - Categorical denial - FIFA hit back on Sunday, accusing Keller of having brought forward no legal grounds for his probe. "Keller has presented no serious elements or legal basis for the opening of any investigation and lacks any detail as to the substance of the case. "FIFA and the FIFA president categorically deny any implication or suggestion that the FIFA president would ever have attempted to exert any form of improper influence" on Lauber. FIFA said it was "not illegal anywhere in the world" to meet a prosecutor. It said the meeting between Infantino and Lauber was "entirely logical" given that the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) was conducting investigations in more than 20 cases in FIFA-related matters. The organisation said such meetings or contacts were "routine" during an investigation. It said the point of the meeting was to offer FIFA's "full support" for the investigations, and Infantino attended in "good faith". "FIFA was trying to restore trust in the institution at that time," it said, finding itself "in a disastrous situation and at risk of being designated a criminal organisation by the US authorities". FIFA said that "in no way whatsoever" were the meetings secret, and they had been arranged by the OAG. - 'No obligation' to keep minutes - FIFA claimed that meeting a prosecutor was "the best guarantee that any such meeting is legitimate". It also insisted there was "no obligation" on the FIFA president to keep minutes of such meetings. Switzerland has pursued a number of cases since a raid on a luxury hotel in Zurich in May 2015 led to the arrests of a several FIFA executives and exposed an allegedly corrupt underbelly in world football. In total, more than 20 FIFA proceedings have been opened in Switzerland over the past five years into allegations of corruption and vote-buying, and allegations over the awarding of television rights contracts.

Infantino staying on as FIFA blasts Swiss probe

After an enforced hiatus of almost five months, the UEFA Champions League and Europa League resume this week in order to clear up the last remaining business in a troubled season.

Both competitions were frozen in March as the coronavirus pandemic took hold across the continent, and while European football's governing body acted swiftly to move Euro 2020 back a year, for a long time it was unclear how it would manage to complete its two landmark club competitions.

In the end the solution was to set up two mini tournaments bringing all teams together in one place from the quarter-finals onwards, with all ties being decided in one-off matches behind closed doors.

And so the Champions League will move to Lisbon for the 'Final Eight' starting on August 12 and ending with the final at Benfica's Estadio da Luz on August 23.

The Europa League, meanwhile, will be played to a conclusion at a series of venues in western Germany, with the last eight beginning on August 10 and the final in Cologne on August 21.

"I believed it from the first moment," said the UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin recently when asked if he ever doubted it would be possible to play the tournaments to a conclusion.

"You should always be optimistic, and if something like this crisis happens, you must have a plan ready.

"At the present time, we will be playing matches without spectators until further notice. We will not take any risks."

<h2>- UEFA not worried -</h2>

There is, though, no question of further changes being made to the formats despite concerns about an increase in Covid-19 cases in and around Lisbon, and more recent worries in Germany about a rise in cases there.

UEFA also recently insisted it was "confident" there would be no more delays despite cases of coronavirus emerging among players at Real Madrid and Sevilla.

It is, in any case, now or never.

Indeed, the preliminary round of next season's Champions League begins next Saturday, the same day Bayern Munich entertain Chelsea and Napoli visit Barcelona in their outstanding last 16 second legs.

Before that, Manchester City defend a 2-1 first-leg lead at home against Real on Friday as Pep Guardiola's side target Champions League glory on the back of the club's success at getting a two-year ban from the competition overturned by the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

The winner of that tie will face Juventus or Lyon in the quarter-finals in Lisbon.

<h2>- Wolves' longest year -</h2>

It is the Europa League which is first up, though, with the last 16 being completed on Wednesday and Thursday.

Two ties -- Inter Milan against Getafe and Sevilla against Roma -- will go ahead as one-off ties in Germany as the first legs were never played.

Six second legs will also be played with the winners heading to Germany for the last eight.

Among the ties to be completed is Manchester United's against Austrian side LASK, which will be a formality for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's team after they won 5-0 in the first leg in March.

Their form since the Premier League resumed in mid-June has been excellent and they have already sealed a place in the 2020-21 Champions League, but now they want to finish this never-ending season with a trophy.

"Now our focus is on the Europa League because this is a really good trophy and we want to win," Bruno Fernandes told MUTV.

"I came to Manchester to win trophies. We need to play every game to win. If we go into the Europa League and win every game, we know we'll win the trophy."

United, Europa League winners in 2017, could yet find themselves facing Premier League rivals Wolverhampton Wanderers in the semi-finals in Cologne on August 16 should both teams get there.

Wolves entertain Greek champions Olympiakos on Thursday having drawn 1-1 in the first leg of their last-16 tie.

Their campaign started more than a year ago now, with a 2-0 win over Northern Irish side Crusaders in the second qualifying round on July 25, 2019.

Extending it by another couple of weeks would do them no harm.

After an enforced hiatus of almost five months, the UEFA Champions League and Europa League resume this week in order to clear up the last remaining business in a troubled season.

After an enforced hiatus of almost five months, the UEFA Champions League and Europa League resume this week in order to clear up the last remaining business in a troubled season. Both competitions were frozen in March as the coronavirus pandemic took hold across the continent, and while European football's governing body acted swiftly to move Euro 2020 back a year, for a long time it was unclear how it would manage to complete its two landmark club competitions. In the end the solution was to set up two mini tournaments bringing all teams together in one place from the quarter-finals onwards, with all ties being decided in one-off matches behind closed doors. And so the Champions League will move to Lisbon for the 'Final Eight' starting on August 12 and ending with the final at Benfica's Estadio da Luz on August 23. The Europa League, meanwhile, will be played to a conclusion at a series of venues in western Germany, with the last eight beginning on August 10 and the final in Cologne on August 21. "I believed it from the first moment," said the UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin recently when asked if he ever doubted it would be possible to play the tournaments to a conclusion. "You should always be optimistic, and if something like this crisis happens, you must have a plan ready. "At the present time, we will be playing matches without spectators until further notice. We will not take any risks." - UEFA not worried - There is, though, no question of further changes being made to the formats despite concerns about an increase in Covid-19 cases in and around Lisbon, and more recent worries in Germany about a rise in cases there. UEFA also recently insisted it was "confident" there would be no more delays despite cases of coronavirus emerging among players at Real Madrid and Sevilla. It is, in any case, now or never. Indeed, the preliminary round of next season's Champions League begins next Saturday, the same day Bayern Munich entertain Chelsea and Napoli visit Barcelona in their outstanding last 16 second legs. Before that, Manchester City defend a 2-1 first-leg lead at home against Real on Friday as Pep Guardiola's side target Champions League glory on the back of the club's success at getting a two-year ban from the competition overturned by the Court of Arbitration for Sport. The winner of that tie will face Juventus or Lyon in the quarter-finals in Lisbon. - Wolves' longest year - It is the Europa League which is first up, though, with the last 16 being completed on Wednesday and Thursday. Two ties -- Inter Milan against Getafe and Sevilla against Roma -- will go ahead as one-off ties in Germany as the first legs were never played. Six second legs will also be played with the winners heading to Germany for the last eight. Among the ties to be completed is Manchester United's against Austrian side LASK, which will be a formality for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's team after they won 5-0 in the first leg in March. Their form since the Premier League resumed in mid-June has been excellent and they have already sealed a place in the 2020-21 Champions League, but now they want to finish this never-ending season with a trophy. "Now our focus is on the Europa League because this is a really good trophy and we want to win," Bruno Fernandes told MUTV. "I came to Manchester to win trophies. We need to play every game to win. If we go into the Europa League and win every game, we know we'll win the trophy." United, Europa League winners in 2017, could yet find themselves facing Premier League rivals Wolverhampton Wanderers in the semi-finals in Cologne on August 16 should both teams get there. Wolves entertain Greek champions Olympiakos on Thursday having drawn 1-1 in the first leg of their last-16 tie. Their campaign started more than a year ago now, with a 2-0 win over Northern Irish side Crusaders in the second qualifying round on July 25, 2019. Extending it by another couple of weeks would do them no harm.

Champions League ready to resume, at long last

Some of Australia's top women's cricketers Monday blasted a decision by India to schedule its T20 Challenge during the Big Bash League as a "huge shame" and "sad for the game".

Indian cricket bosses on Sunday said the women's T20 Challenge will take place in the United Arab Emirates, comprising three teams with four matches during the playoff week of the cash-rich and globally popular men's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL)</a>.

That would see it clash with the Women's Big Bash League (WBBL), widely considered the top women's Twenty20 tournament, which is due to be held between October 17 and November 29.

It would effectively mean Indian players will not be available for the WBBL while overseas stars face having to pick between the competitions.

"So during the WBBL... cool," Australian wicketkeeper Alyssa Healy tweeted sarcastically.

"So the Indian players who've already signed wbbl contracts will do what? And all the international marquee players that will be in aus for wbbl? Good luck with it..."

Fellow Australian Jess Jonassen, the world's top-ranked one-day bowler, was equally bemused, saying "I have no words for this", while batting stalwart Rachael Haynes said "If true, it's a shame".

"While the game continues to grow, premier domestic competitions do not need to compete against each other," Haynes added.&nbsp;

Trailblazing former New Zealand captain Suzie Bates echoed similar sentiments.

"What a huge shame for both the WBBL and WIPL competitions there is a clash," she said.

Both the IPL and T20 Challenge, also known as the women's IPL, have had to be rescheduled due to the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

They were due to be played earlier in the year with the new dates finally set after the postponement of the men's T20 World Cup, which was scheduled to start in Australia in October.

Some of Australia's top women's cricketers Monday blasted a decision by India to schedule its T20 Challenge during the Big Bash League as a "huge shame" and "sad for the game".

Some of Australia's top women's cricketers Monday blasted a decision by India to schedule its T20 Challenge during the Big Bash League as a "huge shame" and "sad for the game". Indian cricket bosses on Sunday said the women's T20 Challenge will take place in the United Arab Emirates, comprising three teams with four matches during the playoff week of the cash-rich and globally popular men's Indian Premier League (IPL). That would see it clash with the Women's Big Bash League (WBBL), widely considered the top women's Twenty20 tournament, which is due to be held between October 17 and November 29. It would effectively mean Indian players will not be available for the WBBL while overseas stars face having to pick between the competitions. "So during the WBBL... cool," Australian wicketkeeper Alyssa Healy tweeted sarcastically. "So the Indian players who've already signed wbbl contracts will do what? And all the international marquee players that will be in aus for wbbl? Good luck with it..." Fellow Australian Jess Jonassen, the world's top-ranked one-day bowler, was equally bemused, saying "I have no words for this", while batting stalwart Rachael Haynes said "If true, it's a shame". "While the game continues to grow, premier domestic competitions do not need to compete against each other," Haynes added. Trailblazing former New Zealand captain Suzie Bates echoed similar sentiments. "What a huge shame for both the WBBL and WIPL competitions there is a clash," she said. Both the IPL and T20 Challenge, also known as the women's IPL, have had to be rescheduled due to the coronavirus pandemic. They were due to be played earlier in the year with the new dates finally set after the postponement of the men's T20 World Cup, which was scheduled to start in Australia in October.

Australian women stars slam timing of India's T20 Challenge

Lewis Hamilton limped to a record seventh British Grand Prix victory with his heart in mouth and a prayer on his lips after a dramatic last-lap puncture turned his Mercedes into a three-wheeler on Sunday.

In an astonishing end to a race he had dominated from pole position, the six-times world champion nursed his stricken Mercedes across the line to stretch his Formula One world championship lead to 30 points.

“I have definitely never experienced anything like that on the last lap,” said Hamilton after inspecting his barely-attached front left tyre.

Red Bull’s Max Verstappen finished second, but could have won had he not pitted for fresh tyres in a successful late bid to score an extra point for the fastest lap, assuming victory was out of reach.

Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc was third, another surprise for a team struggling for performance.

Hamilton’s team mate and closest rival Valtteri Bottas failed to score after also suffering a late puncture and finishing 11th, despite a one-two finish for the pair having looked a nailed-on certainty until late in the race.

“Up until that last lap everything was relatively smooth sailing,” said Hamilton of a race that was already extraordinary for the absence of spectators due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I heard that his (Bottas’s) tyre went and I was just looking at mine and everything seemed fine. The car was still turning no problem... Those last few laps I started to back off and then just down the straight it just deflated.

“That was definitely a heart in the mouth kind of feeling... I was just praying to get around and not be too slow. I nearly didn’t get around the last few corners. Thank God we did.”

The victory was the 87th of Hamilton’s F1 career — leaving him four short of Ferrari great Michael Schumacher’s all-time record of 91 — and his third in a row. It was also probably his greatest escape.

Verstappen’s race engineer summed it up over the team radio: “He’s a lucky boy.”.

The Dutch driver said he was happy with second place and brushed aside talk of a missed win in a race with two safety car periods.

“I could also pick up a puncture and then you lose a lot more,” he said. It’s so easy to say afterwards we should have just continued. But who would have said Lewis would have got the puncture?

“I don’t regret anything. I think we made the right decision.”

Mercedes, chasing a seventh successive title double, have won all four races this season.

<h2>RICCIARDO FOURTH</h2>

Australian Daniel Ricciardo was fourth for Renault, ahead of future McLaren team mate Lando Norris, whose own team mate - Carlos Sainz - also had a puncture.

Frenchman Esteban Ocon ensured Renault’s double points finish in sixth, with compatriot Pierre Gasly seventh for AlphaTauri and British-based Thai Alexander Albon riding a rollercoaster of a race to eighth place.

Canadian Lance Stroll was ninth for Racing Point, and Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel took the final point.

The next round, the 70th Anniversary Grand Prix to mark Silverstone’s hosting of the first world championship race in 1950, is at the same circuit next weekend. But it will struggle to match Sunday’s sensation.

Only 19 of the 20 drivers started, with Racing Point stand-in Nico Hulkenberg failing to make it out of the garage due to power unit problems.

The German was replacing Mexican Sergio Perez, in quarantine after testing positive for the new coronavirus earlier in the week.All the drivers took part before the start in a stance against racism, with Hamilton one of 13 taking a knee as the other seven stood behind.

A World War Two Spitfire fighter plane flew overhead afterwards in a gesture of thanks for Britain’s National Health Service.

Lewis Hamilton limped to a record seventh British Grand Prix victory with his heart in mouth and a prayer on his lips after a dramatic last-lap puncture turned his Mercedes into a three-wheeler on Sunday.

Lewis Hamilton limped to a record seventh British Grand Prix victory with his heart in mouth and a prayer on his lips after a dramatic last-lap puncture turned his Mercedes into a three-wheeler on Sunday. In an astonishing end to a race he had dominated from pole position, the six-times world champion nursed his stricken Mercedes across the line to stretch his Formula One world championship lead to 30 points. “I have definitely never experienced anything like that on the last lap,” said Hamilton after inspecting his barely-attached front left tyre. Red Bull’s Max Verstappen finished second, but could have won had he not pitted for fresh tyres in a successful late bid to score an extra point for the fastest lap, assuming victory was out of reach. Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc was third, another surprise for a team struggling for performance. Hamilton’s team mate and closest rival Valtteri Bottas failed to score after also suffering a late puncture and finishing 11th, despite a one-two finish for the pair having looked a nailed-on certainty until late in the race. “Up until that last lap everything was relatively smooth sailing,” said Hamilton of a race that was already extraordinary for the absence of spectators due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “I heard that his (Bottas’s) tyre went and I was just looking at mine and everything seemed fine. The car was still turning no problem... Those last few laps I started to back off and then just down the straight it just deflated. “That was definitely a heart in the mouth kind of feeling... I was just praying to get around and not be too slow. I nearly didn’t get around the last few corners. Thank God we did.” The victory was the 87th of Hamilton’s F1 career — leaving him four short of Ferrari great Michael Schumacher’s all-time record of 91 — and his third in a row. It was also probably his greatest escape. Verstappen’s race engineer summed it up over the team radio: “He’s a lucky boy.”. The Dutch driver said he was happy with second place and brushed aside talk of a missed win in a race with two safety car periods. “I could also pick up a puncture and then you lose a lot more,” he said. It’s so easy to say afterwards we should have just continued. But who would have said Lewis would have got the puncture? “I don’t regret anything. I think we made the right decision.” Mercedes, chasing a seventh successive title double, have won all four races this season. RICCIARDO FOURTH Australian Daniel Ricciardo was fourth for Renault, ahead of future McLaren team mate Lando Norris, whose own team mate - Carlos Sainz - also had a puncture. Frenchman Esteban Ocon ensured Renault’s double points finish in sixth, with compatriot Pierre Gasly seventh for AlphaTauri and British-based Thai Alexander Albon riding a rollercoaster of a race to eighth place. Canadian Lance Stroll was ninth for Racing Point, and Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel took the final point. The next round, the 70th Anniversary Grand Prix to mark Silverstone’s hosting of the first world championship race in 1950, is at the same circuit next weekend. But it will struggle to match Sunday’s sensation. Only 19 of the 20 drivers started, with Racing Point stand-in Nico Hulkenberg failing to make it out of the garage due to power unit problems. The German was replacing Mexican Sergio Perez, in quarantine after testing positive for the new coronavirus earlier in the week.All the drivers took part before the start in a stance against racism, with Hamilton one of 13 taking a knee as the other seven stood behind. A World War Two Spitfire fighter plane flew overhead afterwards in a gesture of thanks for Britain’s National Health Service.

Hamilton takes record seventh British GP win on three wheels

England have the luxury of six specialist pacemen in their 14-man squad for this week's first Test against Pakistan at Old Trafford -- a welcome "headache" for captain Joe Root.

The skipper can call on veteran new-ball partners James Anderson and Stuart Broad, the express pace of Jofra Archer and Mark Wood and the impressive Sam Curran and Chris Woakes.

The hosts rotated their quicks during last month's 2-1 series win over the West Indies which, together with the upcoming campaign against Pakistan, forms a programme of six Tests in seven weeks.

That is a particularly tough schedule for fast bowlers in a season cut short by the coronavirus pandemic.

England's management has argued no paceman can play all six Tests, with the restrictions imposed by maintaining a bio-secure "bubble" requiring several options to be immediately at hand.

But it is an issue they will need to handle with care given they have now lost the opener in eight of their past 10 multi-match Test series, which for all their resilience could prove costly if it happens against Pakistan.

Broad revealed on Sunday he felt "so low" after being omitted from the West Indies opener that he considered retiring.

The recalled Broad responded with 16 wickets at a miserly average of under 11 in the next two matches as he joined long-standing England new-ball colleague Anderson as one of a select group of seven bowlers to have taken 500 Test wickets.

At 34, and bowling a generally fuller length which makes his ability to move the ball late off the seam an even more challenging proposition, Broad is in arguably the best form of his career.

Anderson, four years older and a swing bowler who thrives in home conditions, is closing in on 600 Test wickets, with England's all-time leading bowler clearly not done yet.

&nbsp;

<h2>- Raw pace -</h2>

&nbsp;

World Cup winners Archer and Wood provide England with the option of genuine 90-miles-per-hour-plus pace, with speed through the air an asset even when pitch and overhead conditions favour the batsmen.

Then there is Curran, whose left-arm angle adds variety to an otherwise all right-arm attack. The Surrey bowler has won every Test he has played in at home.

Woakes, who took 5-50 in the West Indies decider, has a better home average than either Broad or Anderson, with his 81 Test wickets in England coming at just 22 apiece.

Woakes is now more inclined to deploy a sharp bouncer, which makes it harder for batsmen to routinely push forward in the hope of blunting his movement.

That still leaves the pace bowling of star all-rounder Ben Stokes who, as he showed before guiding England to an astounding one-wicket win with a brilliant century during last year's Headingley Test against Australia, can also drag his side back into matches by sheer force of personality with the ball.

But the West Indies finale may serve as a model for England.

Stokes was unfit to bowl, although he featured as a batsman, and that meant England deployed Anderson, Broad, Archer and Woakes in an attack featuring spinner Dom Bess after omitting batsman Zak Crawley.

England could now drop Bess or still play four specialist quicks even if Stokes is fit to bowl for the first Test, which starts at Old Trafford on Wednesday.

There were times when Archer, who clearly thrives on responsibility, was relegated to the role of first and second change during the West Indies finale and appeared to bowl accordingly.

Archer was making his return after missing the second Test due to a breach of coronavirus protocols.

It may be, however, that even Anderson and Broad will have to accept they cannot always be the "main men" from now on.

England often appear so obsessed with the Ashes that the opponent in front of them becomes relegated to a warm-up act for their next confrontation with Australia.

But this season's compressed schedule may have inadvertently given England a template for how to regain the urn Down Under in 2021/22. &nbsp;

"With the talent that's waiting in the wings it's an exciting place to be and long may those headaches continue," said Root.

England have the luxury of six specialist pacemen in their 14-man squad for this week's first Test against Pakistan at Old Trafford -- a welcome "headache" for captain Joe Root.

England have the luxury of six specialist pacemen in their 14-man squad for this week's first Test against Pakistan at Old Trafford -- a welcome "headache" for captain Joe Root. The skipper can call on veteran new-ball partners James Anderson and Stuart Broad, the express pace of Jofra Archer and Mark Wood and the impressive Sam Curran and Chris Woakes. The hosts rotated their quicks during last month's 2-1 series win over the West Indies which, together with the upcoming campaign against Pakistan, forms a programme of six Tests in seven weeks. That is a particularly tough schedule for fast bowlers in a season cut short by the coronavirus pandemic. England's management has argued no paceman can play all six Tests, with the restrictions imposed by maintaining a bio-secure "bubble" requiring several options to be immediately at hand. But it is an issue they will need to handle with care given they have now lost the opener in eight of their past 10 multi-match Test series, which for all their resilience could prove costly if it happens against Pakistan. Broad revealed on Sunday he felt "so low" after being omitted from the West Indies opener that he considered retiring. The recalled Broad responded with 16 wickets at a miserly average of under 11 in the next two matches as he joined long-standing England new-ball colleague Anderson as one of a select group of seven bowlers to have taken 500 Test wickets. At 34, and bowling a generally fuller length which makes his ability to move the ball late off the seam an even more challenging proposition, Broad is in arguably the best form of his career. Anderson, four years older and a swing bowler who thrives in home conditions, is closing in on 600 Test wickets, with England's all-time leading bowler clearly not done yet. - Raw pace - World Cup winners Archer and Wood provide England with the option of genuine 90-miles-per-hour-plus pace, with speed through the air an asset even when pitch and overhead conditions favour the batsmen. Then there is Curran, whose left-arm angle adds variety to an otherwise all right-arm attack. The Surrey bowler has won every Test he has played in at home. Woakes, who took 5-50 in the West Indies decider, has a better home average than either Broad or Anderson, with his 81 Test wickets in England coming at just 22 apiece. Woakes is now more inclined to deploy a sharp bouncer, which makes it harder for batsmen to routinely push forward in the hope of blunting his movement. That still leaves the pace bowling of star all-rounder Ben Stokes who, as he showed before guiding England to an astounding one-wicket win with a brilliant century during last year's Headingley Test against Australia, can also drag his side back into matches by sheer force of personality with the ball. But the West Indies finale may serve as a model for England. Stokes was unfit to bowl, although he featured as a batsman, and that meant England deployed Anderson, Broad, Archer and Woakes in an attack featuring spinner Dom Bess after omitting batsman Zak Crawley. England could now drop Bess or still play four specialist quicks even if Stokes is fit to bowl for the first Test, which starts at Old Trafford on Wednesday. There were times when Archer, who clearly thrives on responsibility, was relegated to the role of first and second change during the West Indies finale and appeared to bowl accordingly. Archer was making his return after missing the second Test due to a breach of coronavirus protocols. It may be, however, that even Anderson and Broad will have to accept they cannot always be the "main men" from now on. England often appear so obsessed with the Ashes that the opponent in front of them becomes relegated to a warm-up act for their next confrontation with Australia. But this season's compressed schedule may have inadvertently given England a template for how to regain the urn Down Under in 2021/22. "With the talent that's waiting in the wings it's an exciting place to be and long may those headaches continue," said Root.

England pace aces create 'headache' for Root ahead of Pakistan Tests

It is the biggest cricket tournament of the year. The Indian Premier League. A festival for the fans. A money minter for the Board of Control for Cricket (BCCI) - the biggest cricket board in the world.

But, the IPL is facing boycott calls this year. Because, the BCCI won’t dump a Chinese sponsor. Vivo – a Chinese smartphone company is the title sponsor of the tournament. Come September - its logo will be plastered all over IPL venues in the UAE.

At a time - when China isn’t willing to back down from the border. After the PLA launched an unprovoked attack on Indian soldiers. 20 Indian soldiers had died in June. India retaliated --- by punishing Chinese companies. Indian citizens are boycotting Chinese products.

But India’s biggest cricket tournament - will not dump Vivo. A Chinese brand.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-in-uae-from-match-timings-to-womens-ipl-key-takeaways-from-ipl-gc-meeting-317694" hreflang="en">IPL 2020 in UAE: From match timings to women's IPL - Key takeaways from IPL GC meeting</a>

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/boycottipl?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#boycottipl</a> 
I'm a huge IPL fan, especially <a href="https://twitter.com/mipaltan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mipaltan</a>. But I won't watch until they change this decision.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2020</a> <a href="https://t.co/Hozsz7yzuO">pic.twitter.com/Hozsz7yzuO</a>
— Soham Parmar (@Defier_52) <a href="https://twitter.com/Defier_52/status/1289988276183371776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Indian Premier League (IPL) is a business &amp; those running this biz are insensitive towards the nation and it’s security concerns. Whole world is boycotting China, IPL is sheltering them. They should understand that nothing is above nation, not even cricket. Ppl may <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BoycottIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BoycottIPL</a> <a href="https://t.co/6nyjJ1nCSE">https://t.co/6nyjJ1nCSE</a>
— ASHWANI MAHAJAN (@ashwani_mahajan) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwani_mahajan/status/1290000344928227329?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BoycottIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BoycottIPL</a> 
 
Shame on you <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCI</a> <a href="https://t.co/8a6IYebjzL">pic.twitter.com/8a6IYebjzL</a>
— Raghu shukla 🇮🇳👳 (@Raghushukla13) <a href="https://twitter.com/Raghushukla13/status/1290061876957650944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Needless to say - this decision hasn’t gone down well with a large section of Indians. From the politicians to citizens, they all have slammed the BCCI. The opposition has latched onto the issue to take on the government. On twitter, angry fans started a hashtag -- boycott IPL.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-marnus-labuschagne-thriving-to-be-the-best-316956" hreflang="en">Exclusive | Marnus Labuschagne: Thriving to be the best</a>

Confederation of All India Traders have written to the government. The letter has gone to Home Minister Amit shah --- as well as External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar. They claim that BCCI decision “smacks of its lust for money”. The confederation wants the permission to the BCCI withdrawn.

The IPL starts on the 19th of September. The tournament will be moved to the UAE this year. Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah will be the three venues for the money-spinning tournament.

<h2>Why can’t the BCCI dump Vivo?</h2>

Since 2018 --- the board received close to INR 3,300 crores for media rights. More than 400 million dollars. It earns 700 crores in sponsorships. That's 93 million dollars. Vivo pays the board 440 crores for the title sponsorship per year. Or 58 million dollars. All of this, doesn’t go into BCCI’s pocket.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-australias-josh-hazlewood-opens-up-on-england-and-india-series-ipl-2020-injuries-and-more-316469" hreflang="en">EXCLUSIVE: Australia's Josh Hazlewood opens up on England and India series, IPL 2020, injuries and more</a>

Half of the revenue from the IPL. is distributed to the eight franchises. After doing that --- the BCCI is left with around two thousand crores as income. Or 265 million dollars.

That’s the kind of money that the BCCI makes from the tournament. It can afford to let go of the 440 crores from Vivo.

But, it hasn’t. Reportedly, it was too late for the BCCI to take a call. There are also fears of legal liabilities too. In 2018, Vivo had secured the title sponsorship for the IPL for five years. With a mammoth bid of INR 2,199 crores. That's close to $300 million.

Allegedly - the exit clause in the contract favours the Chinese company.&nbsp;Cricket is more than a sport for India. It is a religion. You must have heard that often.

But, it is also a diplomatic tool. Used to send a message to India’s adversaries. The Indian cricket team doesn’t play with Pakistan. Pakistani players are banned from the IPL.

In 2017, Pakistani commentators were banned too. Why can’t Chinese sponsors be given the boot? How much money is enough for the richest cricket board in the world?

According to a report --- the BCCI had more than five thousand crores as cash and bank balances in its 2018 balance sheets.

That's more than 600 million dollars. A little more than two thousand crores was in the form of fixed deposits. In comparison, the money from the vivo sponsorship is pocket change. Something that the bcci won’t miss from its balance sheets. 
&nbsp;

It is the biggest cricket tournament of the year. The Indian Premier League. A festival for the fans. A money minter for the Board of Control for Cricket (BCCI) - the biggest cricket board in the world.

It is the biggest cricket tournament of the year. The Indian Premier League. A festival for the fans. A money minter for the Board of Control for Cricket (BCCI) - the biggest cricket board in the world. But, the IPL is facing boycott calls this year. Because, the BCCI won’t dump a Chinese sponsor. Vivo – a Chinese smartphone company is the title sponsor of the tournament. Come September - its logo will be plastered all over IPL venues in the UAE. At a time - when China isn’t willing to back down from the border. After the PLA launched an unprovoked attack on Indian soldiers. 20 Indian soldiers had died in June. India retaliated --- by punishing Chinese companies. Indian citizens are boycotting Chinese products. But India’s biggest cricket tournament - will not dump Vivo. A Chinese brand. ALSO READ: IPL 2020 in UAE: From match timings to women's IPL - Key takeaways from IPL GC meeting #boycottipl I'm a huge IPL fan, especially @mipaltan. But I won't watch until they change this decision.#IPL2020 pic.twitter.com/Hozsz7yzuO — Soham Parmar (@Defier_52) August 2, 2020 × Indian Premier League (IPL) is a business & those running this biz are insensitive towards the nation and it’s security concerns. Whole world is boycotting China, IPL is sheltering them. They should understand that nothing is above nation, not even cricket. Ppl may #BoycottIPL https://t.co/6nyjJ1nCSE — ASHWANI MAHAJAN (@ashwani_mahajan) August 2, 2020 × #BoycottIPL Shame on you @BCCI pic.twitter.com/8a6IYebjzL — Raghu shukla 🇮🇳👳 (@Raghushukla13) August 2, 2020 × Needless to say - this decision hasn’t gone down well with a large section of Indians. From the politicians to citizens, they all have slammed the BCCI. The opposition has latched onto the issue to take on the government. On twitter, angry fans started a hashtag -- boycott IPL. ALSO READ: Exclusive | Marnus Labuschagne: Thriving to be the best Confederation of All India Traders have written to the government. The letter has gone to Home Minister Amit shah --- as well as External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar. They claim that BCCI decision “smacks of its lust for money”. The confederation wants the permission to the BCCI withdrawn. The IPL starts on the 19th of September. The tournament will be moved to the UAE this year. Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah will be the three venues for the money-spinning tournament. Why can’t the BCCI dump Vivo? Since 2018 --- the board received close to INR 3,300 crores for media rights. More than 400 million dollars. It earns 700 crores in sponsorships. That's 93 million dollars. Vivo pays the board 440 crores for the title sponsorship per year. Or 58 million dollars. All of this, doesn’t go into BCCI’s pocket. ALSO READ: EXCLUSIVE: Australia's Josh Hazlewood opens up on England and India series, IPL 2020, injuries and more Half of the revenue from the IPL. is distributed to the eight franchises. After doing that --- the BCCI is left with around two thousand crores as income. Or 265 million dollars. That’s the kind of money that the BCCI makes from the tournament. It can afford to let go of the 440 crores from Vivo. But, it hasn’t. Reportedly, it was too late for the BCCI to take a call. There are also fears of legal liabilities too. In 2018, Vivo had secured the title sponsorship for the IPL for five years. With a mammoth bid of INR 2,199 crores. That's close to $300 million. Allegedly - the exit clause in the contract favours the Chinese company. Cricket is more than a sport for India. It is a religion. You must have heard that often. But, it is also a diplomatic tool. Used to send a message to India’s adversaries. The Indian cricket team doesn’t play with Pakistan. Pakistani players are banned from the IPL. In 2017, Pakistani commentators were banned too. Why can’t Chinese sponsors be given the boot? How much money is enough for the richest cricket board in the world? According to a report --- the BCCI had more than five thousand crores as cash and bank balances in its 2018 balance sheets. That's more than 600 million dollars. A little more than two thousand crores was in the form of fixed deposits. In comparison, the money from the vivo sponsorship is pocket change. Something that the bcci won’t miss from its balance sheets.

IPL's million-dollar Chinese connection

From saliva ban to red cards for coughing: Changes brought by COVID-19 in the world of sports

Pakistan coach Misbah-ul-Haq has asked his side to get off to a winning start in their impending three-match Test series against England as the former skipper said that every player must be at their best “right from the word go.”

England have had a consistent run in losing series openers in eight of their last 10 Test series, including the defeat in 2-1 series win over the West Indies that marked international cricket’s return from the COVID-19 lockdown.&nbsp;

Old Trafford will be the hunting ground for both the sides, the same venue where England thumped Jason Holder’s men recently.&nbsp;

Misbah, addressing the reporters via video-conference, suggested England would have the momentum going into the series: "We should be ready for an England team that have already had three matches of experience and they won their last two Test matches.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-retains-chinese-sponsors-for-ipl-despite-political-tensions-between-two-countries-317854" hreflang="en">BCCI retains Chinese sponsors for IPL despite political tensions between two countries</a>

"We have to really come in this Test series right from the word 'go' at our best if we want to win a Test series or a Test match here.&nbsp;

"We are aware that England have a slight advantage but if we are alert and go 100 percent in the first Test match, that is the only way we can beat England, otherwise we will find ourselves in difficulty."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bccis-sops-on-resumption-of-training-consent-form-age-bracket-headline-100-page-guidelines-317834" hreflang="en">BCCI's SOPs on resumption of training: Consent form, age bracket headline 100-page guidelines</a>

Pakistan have played two intra-squad warm-up matches to get into the rhythm with praises flowing in for the Pakistani pace attack. However, Misbah is of the view that the batsmen would need to perform well to give a chance to the bowlers.

"It's always tough with the Duke ball in England where the ball moves around off the seam and also in the air," Misbah said.

"But this is where you can really fight and our batting looked in great shape in the last two series. We played in Pakistan but even in Australia we managed to score good runs in almost every innings.&nbsp;

"Shan Masood, Abid Ali scored centuries in previous series (at home to Bangladesh in February and at home to Sri Lanka in December). Conditions are different but still confidence plays a huge role in your mind when you're coming from a series where you scored runs.&nbsp;

"Azhar (Ali) got a hundred (too, against Sri Lanka).

"In 2016 Asad Shafiq scored runs here, Babar Azam last time performed here in 2018 (when Pakistan drew a two-match series in England 1-1) and the way he's batting at the moment, he's confident and playing well."

The England versus Pakistan three-match Test series is set to start from August 5. 
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Pakistan coach Misbah-ul-Haq has asked his side to get off to a winning start in their impending three-match Test series against England as the former skipper said that every player must be at their best “right from the word go.

Pakistan coach Misbah-ul-Haq has asked his side to get off to a winning start in their impending three-match Test series against England as the former skipper said that every player must be at their best “right from the word go.” England have had a consistent run in losing series openers in eight of their last 10 Test series, including the defeat in 2-1 series win over the West Indies that marked international cricket’s return from the COVID-19 lockdown. Old Trafford will be the hunting ground for both the sides, the same venue where England thumped Jason Holder’s men recently. Misbah, addressing the reporters via video-conference, suggested England would have the momentum going into the series: "We should be ready for an England team that have already had three matches of experience and they won their last two Test matches. ALSO READ: BCCI retains Chinese sponsors for IPL despite political tensions between two countries "We have to really come in this Test series right from the word 'go' at our best if we want to win a Test series or a Test match here. "We are aware that England have a slight advantage but if we are alert and go 100 percent in the first Test match, that is the only way we can beat England, otherwise we will find ourselves in difficulty." ALSO READ: BCCI's SOPs on resumption of training: Consent form, age bracket headline 100-page guidelines Pakistan have played two intra-squad warm-up matches to get into the rhythm with praises flowing in for the Pakistani pace attack. However, Misbah is of the view that the batsmen would need to perform well to give a chance to the bowlers. "It's always tough with the Duke ball in England where the ball moves around off the seam and also in the air," Misbah said. "But this is where you can really fight and our batting looked in great shape in the last two series. We played in Pakistan but even in Australia we managed to score good runs in almost every innings. "Shan Masood, Abid Ali scored centuries in previous series (at home to Bangladesh in February and at home to Sri Lanka in December). Conditions are different but still confidence plays a huge role in your mind when you're coming from a series where you scored runs. "Azhar (Ali) got a hundred (too, against Sri Lanka). "In 2016 Asad Shafiq scored runs here, Babar Azam last time performed here in 2018 (when Pakistan drew a two-match series in England 1-1) and the way he's batting at the moment, he's confident and playing well." The England versus Pakistan three-match Test series is set to start from August 5.

Misbah-ul-Haq: Pakistan must be ready from word 'go' against England

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Zee News Rajasthan

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Subhayan Chakraborty

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