Four months on from the last match in this season's Champions League, the draw for the final eight will be held on Friday amid ongoing uncertainty about how safe it will be to play out the competition in Lisbon as planned, and with four last-16 ties still to be completed.

It was on March 11 that Paris Saint-Germain beat Borussia Dortmund 2-0 behind closed doors to qualify for the quarter-finals for the first time in four years and their players celebrated wildly with jubilant supporters who had gathered outside the Parc des Princes.

The same night, holders Liverpool were knocked out by Atletico Madrid in front of 52,000 fans at Anfield, a mass gathering which British scientists later said had aided the acceleration of the coronavirus pandemic.

Within days football across Europe was suspended and it was only in mid-June that UEFA was able to unveil a way of finishing its flagship tournament, the main economic driver for European football's governing body -- before the pandemic, it estimated gross commercial revenue from its competitions this season would be 3.25 billion euros ($3.69bn).

And so the plan is to go to the Portuguese capital for a unique "final eight" straight knockout tournament from the quarter-finals onwards, starting on August 12 and finishing with the final at Benfica's Estadio da Luz on August 23.

It will share the quarter-final and semi-final matches with the Estadio Jose Alvalade, Sporting's home just along Lisbon's Segunda Circular ring road.

&nbsp;

<h2>- Games behind closed doors? -</h2>

&nbsp;

Benfica's home staged the Champions League final in 2014 when Real Madrid beat Atletico. Then it was filled to its 65,000 capacity, but this time it is expected all matches will be played behind closed doors due to fears an influx of supporters from around Europe could spark a new wave of COVID-19.

Indeed, the biggest concern right now is Lisbon itself.

Last week lockdown restrictions were reimposed on 19 neighbourhoods across the northern periphery of Lisbon, worryingly close to both venues. The restrictions concern some 700,000 people and will remain in place for at least a fortnight.

Portugal, a country of 10 million, is currently registering over 300 cases of coronavirus a day. Three-quarters of the 443 new cases registered on Wednesday came in the Lisbon area.

&nbsp;

<h2>- No Plan B -</h2>

&nbsp;

That raises questions about whether the final eight will happen as planned, although UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin has remained outwardly bullish.

"I am confident that with the continued and constant collaboration between all stakeholders, we will conclude the season in a positive way in Lisbon. There is no need for a Plan B," Ceferin said last week.

UEFA plans to complete the Europa League with an identical format, a final eight in Germany, with the final due to go ahead in Cologne on August 21.

The draws for the quarter-finals and semi-finals of both competitions will be held on Friday, from 1000 GMT. However, before getting that far in either competition, there are a host of last-16 ties to be completed.

In the Europa League last 16, only six of the eight first-leg matches were played in March.

In the Champions League, Atalanta and RB Leipzig are through to the last eight along with PSG and Atletico. The remaining last 16, second legs will see Juventus face Lyon, Manchester City take on Madrid, Bayern Munich face Chelsea and Barcelona meet Napoli.

UEFA has kept open the idea of also moving those games to Portugal if necessary, to the northern cities of Porto and Guimaraes.

While some of the continent's behemoths still hope to book their spots in Portugal, Atletico and PSG might see the unique format as an ideal opportunity for European glory.

"We are capable of winning this competition, just like the other seven teams will be. I am convinced that we will be a strong proposition," said the PSG coach Thomas Tuchel.

Underdogs Atalanta, from the northern Italian city of Bergamo devastated by the pandemic, are dreaming of going all the way.

The same can be said of RB Leipzig, although they will have to do without star striker Timo Werner after he was sold to Chelsea.

Four months on from the last match in this season's Champions League, the draw for the final eight will be held on Friday amid ongoing uncertainty about how safe it will be to play out the competition in Lisbon as planned, and with four last-16 ties still to be completed.

Four months on from the last match in this season's Champions League, the draw for the final eight will be held on Friday amid ongoing uncertainty about how safe it will be to play out the competition in Lisbon as planned, and with four last-16 ties still to be completed. It was on March 11 that Paris Saint-Germain beat Borussia Dortmund 2-0 behind closed doors to qualify for the quarter-finals for the first time in four years and their players celebrated wildly with jubilant supporters who had gathered outside the Parc des Princes. The same night, holders Liverpool were knocked out by Atletico Madrid in front of 52,000 fans at Anfield, a mass gathering which British scientists later said had aided the acceleration of the coronavirus pandemic. Within days football across Europe was suspended and it was only in mid-June that UEFA was able to unveil a way of finishing its flagship tournament, the main economic driver for European football's governing body -- before the pandemic, it estimated gross commercial revenue from its competitions this season would be 3.25 billion euros ($3.69bn). And so the plan is to go to the Portuguese capital for a unique "final eight" straight knockout tournament from the quarter-finals onwards, starting on August 12 and finishing with the final at Benfica's Estadio da Luz on August 23. It will share the quarter-final and semi-final matches with the Estadio Jose Alvalade, Sporting's home just along Lisbon's Segunda Circular ring road. - Games behind closed doors? - Benfica's home staged the Champions League final in 2014 when Real Madrid beat Atletico. Then it was filled to its 65,000 capacity, but this time it is expected all matches will be played behind closed doors due to fears an influx of supporters from around Europe could spark a new wave of COVID-19. Indeed, the biggest concern right now is Lisbon itself. Last week lockdown restrictions were reimposed on 19 neighbourhoods across the northern periphery of Lisbon, worryingly close to both venues. The restrictions concern some 700,000 people and will remain in place for at least a fortnight. Portugal, a country of 10 million, is currently registering over 300 cases of coronavirus a day. Three-quarters of the 443 new cases registered on Wednesday came in the Lisbon area. - No Plan B - That raises questions about whether the final eight will happen as planned, although UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin has remained outwardly bullish. "I am confident that with the continued and constant collaboration between all stakeholders, we will conclude the season in a positive way in Lisbon. There is no need for a Plan B," Ceferin said last week. UEFA plans to complete the Europa League with an identical format, a final eight in Germany, with the final due to go ahead in Cologne on August 21. The draws for the quarter-finals and semi-finals of both competitions will be held on Friday, from 1000 GMT. However, before getting that far in either competition, there are a host of last-16 ties to be completed. In the Europa League last 16, only six of the eight first-leg matches were played in March. In the Champions League, Atalanta and RB Leipzig are through to the last eight along with PSG and Atletico. The remaining last 16, second legs will see Juventus face Lyon, Manchester City take on Madrid, Bayern Munich face Chelsea and Barcelona meet Napoli. UEFA has kept open the idea of also moving those games to Portugal if necessary, to the northern cities of Porto and Guimaraes. While some of the continent's behemoths still hope to book their spots in Portugal, Atletico and PSG might see the unique format as an ideal opportunity for European glory. "We are capable of winning this competition, just like the other seven teams will be. I am convinced that we will be a strong proposition," said the PSG coach Thomas Tuchel. Underdogs Atalanta, from the northern Italian city of Bergamo devastated by the pandemic, are dreaming of going all the way. The same can be said of RB Leipzig, although they will have to do without star striker Timo Werner after he was sold to Chelsea.

Champions League draw comes with UEFA hoping virus doesn't ruin plans for Lisbon finale

Major League Soccer returned from its four-month shutdown on Wednesday with a sombre anti-racism demonstration and fresh fears another coronavirus-stricken team may be forced to withdraw.

An injury-time winner from Portugal international and former Manchester United star Nani gave Orlando a 2-1 victory over David Beckham's Inter Miami played out in a makeshift, fan-less arena at ESPN's World Wide of Sports complex at Disney World in Florida.

Nani's 97th minute strike completed a come-from-behind win for Orlando, who had equalized through Chris Mueller on 70 minutes after Juan Agudelo fired Inter Miami into the lead just after halftime.

However the injury-time drama in Orlando was largely overshadowed by events off the pitch as the restart tournament billed as "MLS is Back" got under way.

Just before kick off, dozens of players from clubs across MLS had lined up around the field for a silent protest against racism and police brutality.

"The performance of everyone was beautiful. It was emotional for the ones who were there," said Orlando's Nani.

Players clad in black t-shirts and wearing black gloves raised their fists to the night sky in an eight-minute 46-second salute -- a reference to the May 25 death of unarmed black George Floyd in police custody in Minneapolis.

Floyd died after being pinned to the floor by a police officer who knelt on his neck for eight minutes and 46 seconds.

Miami and Orlando players then dropped to one knee just after the opening whistle, the gesture of solidarity with the Black Lives Matter cause that has rippled across the globe in the tide of revulsion which followed Floyd's death.

&nbsp;

<h2>- New virus fears -</h2>

&nbsp;

"This tournament, is a unique opportunity for us to be all be together in the same place and show the support and solidarity for each other and all our brothers and sisters standing up for civil rights," said Justin Morrow, a fullback for Toronto FC.

The sombre spectacle overshadowed a largely lackluster opening to the World Cup-style tournament, which is taking place with 25 teams from across the league based inside a protective "bubble" at Disney World in an effort to keep players shielded from COVID-19.

Yet as the tournament kicked off fresh fears emerged that a second team may be forced to withdraw after suffering a further cluster of coronavirus cases.

Nashville SC, who on Tuesday confirmed that five players had been diagnosed with COVID-19, had reportedly been hit with four more infections in their squad.

On Monday, FC Dallas were forced to withdraw from the tournament after confirmation 10 players and a member of support staff had tested positive for the virus.

Major League Commissioner Don Garber did not directly confirm the new Nashville cases in comments to ESPN, but warned the league would not hesitate to remove the team from the tournament if necessary.

Garber said the rash of positive cases showed that the league's aggressive testing policies had been effective.

"We don't want anyone to be sick, whether they have symptoms or whether they have COVID-19," Garber told ESPN.

"The whole concept was to catch infections as they were coming into Orlando. That's what's happening with Dallas and Nashville. We are working very closely with our doctors and will meet with them.

"If we find that we have a situation with Nashville where they can't continue in the tournament we will make that decision and move forward from there."

Major League Soccer returned from its four-month shutdown on Wednesday with a sombre anti-racism demonstration and fresh fears another coronavirus-stricken team may be forced to withdraw.

Major League Soccer returned from its four-month shutdown on Wednesday with a sombre anti-racism demonstration and fresh fears another coronavirus-stricken team may be forced to withdraw. An injury-time winner from Portugal international and former Manchester United star Nani gave Orlando a 2-1 victory over David Beckham's Inter Miami played out in a makeshift, fan-less arena at ESPN's World Wide of Sports complex at Disney World in Florida. Nani's 97th minute strike completed a come-from-behind win for Orlando, who had equalized through Chris Mueller on 70 minutes after Juan Agudelo fired Inter Miami into the lead just after halftime. However the injury-time drama in Orlando was largely overshadowed by events off the pitch as the restart tournament billed as "MLS is Back" got under way. Just before kick off, dozens of players from clubs across MLS had lined up around the field for a silent protest against racism and police brutality. "The performance of everyone was beautiful. It was emotional for the ones who were there," said Orlando's Nani. Players clad in black t-shirts and wearing black gloves raised their fists to the night sky in an eight-minute 46-second salute -- a reference to the May 25 death of unarmed black George Floyd in police custody in Minneapolis. Floyd died after being pinned to the floor by a police officer who knelt on his neck for eight minutes and 46 seconds. Miami and Orlando players then dropped to one knee just after the opening whistle, the gesture of solidarity with the Black Lives Matter cause that has rippled across the globe in the tide of revulsion which followed Floyd's death. - New virus fears - "This tournament, is a unique opportunity for us to be all be together in the same place and show the support and solidarity for each other and all our brothers and sisters standing up for civil rights," said Justin Morrow, a fullback for Toronto FC. The sombre spectacle overshadowed a largely lackluster opening to the World Cup-style tournament, which is taking place with 25 teams from across the league based inside a protective "bubble" at Disney World in an effort to keep players shielded from COVID-19. Yet as the tournament kicked off fresh fears emerged that a second team may be forced to withdraw after suffering a further cluster of coronavirus cases. Nashville SC, who on Tuesday confirmed that five players had been diagnosed with COVID-19, had reportedly been hit with four more infections in their squad. On Monday, FC Dallas were forced to withdraw from the tournament after confirmation 10 players and a member of support staff had tested positive for the virus. Major League Commissioner Don Garber did not directly confirm the new Nashville cases in comments to ESPN, but warned the league would not hesitate to remove the team from the tournament if necessary. Garber said the rash of positive cases showed that the league's aggressive testing policies had been effective. "We don't want anyone to be sick, whether they have symptoms or whether they have COVID-19," Garber told ESPN. "The whole concept was to catch infections as they were coming into Orlando. That's what's happening with Dallas and Nashville. We are working very closely with our doctors and will meet with them. "If we find that we have a situation with Nashville where they can't continue in the tournament we will make that decision and move forward from there."

MLS restarts with sombre ceremony, new virus fears

Three players who continue to test positive for COVID-19 teed off together in Thursday's opening round of the US PGA Workday Charity Open under "clarified" rules for symptomatic participation.

South Africa's&nbsp;Dylan Frittelli and Americans Denny McCarthy and Nick Watney began with pars at the 10th hole at Muirfield Village in their morning start after having limited access to facilities at the Ohio, layout.

The PGA Tour protocol guidelines involve players and caddies who meet the US Centers for Disease Control (CDC) "Return to Work" guidelines after consultation with infectious disease experts and PGA medical advisor Dr. Tom Hospel.

Those allow condition returns to competition for players and caddies who continue to test positive for coronavirus if at least 10 days have passed since the symptoms first appeared and 72 hours have passed since fever has disappeared and issues such as cough and shortness of breath have improved.

"In the beginning stages of the illness, that virus is assumed to be active virus that can cause infection, can be contagious," Hospel said.

"As time passes and as symptoms resolve (the) theory is that this virus, this particle that has being detected... is no longer active or contagious.

"What we've learned along the way is that in some instances, individuals can continue to test positive for weeks if not months beyond when their illness started, and the thought is that those individuals are no longer contagious."

A 10-day isolation was required for those testing positive but under July 1 revisions, an infected player or caddie can return if there are no symptoms displayed once two negative tests are taken at least 24 hours apart.

The CDC and experts say tests used by the tour show the possibility of detecting virus even after infectious aspect of it is gone and a person is no longer contagious.

The PGA decided players and caddies who meet that criteria will be grouped together or play alone and have no access to indoor facilities "out of an abundance of caution."

"They have complied with the guidance from the CDC, they have met the medical requirements for isolation, and with respect to the opinions of our medical advisors, including infectious disease experts and the CDC, they're clear to play," PGA Tour vice president for administration Andy Levinson said.

Three players who continue to test positive for COVID-19 teed off together in Thursday's opening round of the US PGA Workday Charity Open under "clarified" rules for symptomatic participation.

Three players who continue to test positive for COVID-19 teed off together in Thursday's opening round of the US PGA Workday Charity Open under "clarified" rules for symptomatic participation. South Africa's Dylan Frittelli and Americans Denny McCarthy and Nick Watney began with pars at the 10th hole at Muirfield Village in their morning start after having limited access to facilities at the Ohio, layout. The PGA Tour protocol guidelines involve players and caddies who meet the US Centers for Disease Control (CDC) "Return to Work" guidelines after consultation with infectious disease experts and PGA medical advisor Dr. Tom Hospel. Those allow condition returns to competition for players and caddies who continue to test positive for coronavirus if at least 10 days have passed since the symptoms first appeared and 72 hours have passed since fever has disappeared and issues such as cough and shortness of breath have improved. "In the beginning stages of the illness, that virus is assumed to be active virus that can cause infection, can be contagious," Hospel said. "As time passes and as symptoms resolve (the) theory is that this virus, this particle that has being detected... is no longer active or contagious. "What we've learned along the way is that in some instances, individuals can continue to test positive for weeks if not months beyond when their illness started, and the thought is that those individuals are no longer contagious." A 10-day isolation was required for those testing positive but under July 1 revisions, an infected player or caddie can return if there are no symptoms displayed once two negative tests are taken at least 24 hours apart. The CDC and experts say tests used by the tour show the possibility of detecting virus even after infectious aspect of it is gone and a person is no longer contagious. The PGA decided players and caddies who meet that criteria will be grouped together or play alone and have no access to indoor facilities "out of an abundance of caution." "They have complied with the guidance from the CDC, they have met the medical requirements for isolation, and with respect to the opinions of our medical advisors, including infectious disease experts and the CDC, they're clear to play," PGA Tour vice president for administration Andy Levinson said.

Three COVID-positive players tee off together at PGA event

The BCCI is all set to part ways with its chief executive officer Rahul Johri, whose long-pending resignation was accepted on Thursday.

While the top bosses in the BCCI remained tight-lipped about the development, a senior official in the know of things told PTI that they have decided to accept his resignation letter sent on December 27.

"Rahul Johri's resignation has been&nbsp;accepted. He was earlier given an extension till April 30 but this time it has been accepted," a BCCI veteran told PTI on the condition of anonymity.

It could not be ascertained why the BCCI suddenly decided to accept his resignation.

Johri, who joined the BCCI in 2016, had earlier put in his papers after the Supreme Court-appointed Committee of Administrators (CoA) had made way for the Sourav Ganguly-led set-up to run the world's richest cricket board.

He was then asked to continue till the end of his contract, which is due to expire in 2021.

However, once the BCCI got back its administration, Johri was increasingly marginalized with his domain of work, including matters related to ICC, being handled by secretary Jay Shah.

The BCCI is all set to part ways with its chief executive officer Rahul Johri, whose long-pending resignation was accepted on Thursday. While the top bosses in the BCCI remained tight-lipped about the development, a senior official in the know of things told PTI that they have decided to accept his resignation letter sent on December 27.

The BCCI is all set to part ways with its chief executive officer Rahul Johri, whose long-pending resignation was accepted on Thursday. While the top bosses in the BCCI remained tight-lipped about the development, a senior official in the know of things told PTI that they have decided to accept his resignation letter sent on December 27. "Rahul Johri's resignation has been accepted. He was earlier given an extension till April 30 but this time it has been accepted," a BCCI veteran told PTI on the condition of anonymity. It could not be ascertained why the BCCI suddenly decided to accept his resignation. Johri, who joined the BCCI in 2016, had earlier put in his papers after the Supreme Court-appointed Committee of Administrators (CoA) had made way for the Sourav Ganguly-led set-up to run the world's richest cricket board. He was then asked to continue till the end of his contract, which is due to expire in 2021. However, once the BCCI got back its administration, Johri was increasingly marginalized with his domain of work, including matters related to ICC, being handled by secretary Jay Shah.

BCCI CEO Rahul Johri's resignation accepted

Real Madrid winger Vinicius Jr. will have a COVID-19 test again after an error in the first test, however, the Brazilian teenager has not tested positive for coronavirus, his manager Zinedine Zidane said on Thursday.

The Brazilian forward, Vinicius, did not train with the Real Madrid squad on Thursday as a precaution ahead of Los Blancos’ La Liga match against Alaves.&nbsp;

“He has not tested positive, but it went wrong,” Zidane told reporters in a virtual news conference.

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“There was an error. There were errors on other occasions as well and that is why we followed the protocol and he did not train, for safety.

“But it has not been positive. This afternoon we will do another test. If everything goes well he will return with the group to train and play.”

<h2>Luka Jovic unavailable for Alaves match: Zidane</h2>

Real Madrid, who will be without Luka Jovic, as the Serbian striker was forced to self-isolate at home as a precaution after coming in contact with a friend who tested positive for COVID-19.

Zidane confirmed the 22-year-old, who has had a torrid debut season for Madrid was not available for the game.

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“Since we do not want to risk it, he is not with us. I hope this changes quickly and that he comes back soon,” Zidane added.

“These are things that happen. It’s true that he’s not very happy, especially with the injury. But he’s a very good footballer, a striker who scores goals but has not played much.

“We will count on him and for next year too.”

Real Madrid are atop the La Liga table with 77 points, one ahead of Barcelona with a game in hand and would be looking to continue their winning run when they take on Alaves.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Real Madrid winger Vinicius Jr. will have a COVID-19 test again after an error in the first test, however, the Brazilian teenager has not tested positive for coronavirus, his manager Zinedine Zidane said on Thursday.

Real Madrid winger Vinicius Jr. will have a COVID-19 test again after an error in the first test, however, the Brazilian teenager has not tested positive for coronavirus, his manager Zinedine Zidane said on Thursday. The Brazilian forward, Vinicius, did not train with the Real Madrid squad on Thursday as a precaution ahead of Los Blancos’ La Liga match against Alaves. “He has not tested positive, but it went wrong,” Zidane told reporters in a virtual news conference. ALSO READ: Manuel Pellegrini named new Real Betis manager on three-year deal “There was an error. There were errors on other occasions as well and that is why we followed the protocol and he did not train, for safety. “But it has not been positive. This afternoon we will do another test. If everything goes well he will return with the group to train and play.” Luka Jovic unavailable for Alaves match: Zidane Real Madrid, who will be without Luka Jovic, as the Serbian striker was forced to self-isolate at home as a precaution after coming in contact with a friend who tested positive for COVID-19. Zidane confirmed the 22-year-old, who has had a torrid debut season for Madrid was not available for the game. ALSO READ: FIFA wants uniform global use of VAR, says refs chief Collina “Since we do not want to risk it, he is not with us. I hope this changes quickly and that he comes back soon,” Zidane added. “These are things that happen. It’s true that he’s not very happy, especially with the injury. But he’s a very good footballer, a striker who scores goals but has not played much. “We will count on him and for next year too.” Real Madrid are atop the La Liga table with 77 points, one ahead of Barcelona with a game in hand and would be looking to continue their winning run when they take on Alaves.

Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr to retake COVID-19 test after error: Zinedine Zidane

Former England captain Nasser Hussain wants the ICC to revisit its regulations related to bad light which has affected Test matches over the years.

The officials on Wednesday were forced to call off the opening day of the first Test between England and the West Indies due to bad light and rain which saw only 17.4 overs being bowled.

ICC leaves it "solely for the umpires together to decide" whether bad light mean that "it would be dangerous or unreasonable for play to take place."

Hussain, who has scored 5764 runs in 96 Tests for England, feels perhaps the umpires can keep the players on the ground longer even if light might be considered poor.

"It's one thing you have to try and explain to somebody new to the game. You spend a lot of money on lights, turn the lights on and go off for light. On this occasion, they've gone off for rain. It is something eventually that I'd like the ICC to change really," Hussain said on Sky Sports Cricket.

"They might say 'You're a retired player' and (talk about) stats, but look at that, the lights are on. If it wasn't raining now, maybe the players could buy into the fact that the game needs to keep selling itself and if you can stay on, do stay on."

The bad light laws have come for criticism in the past.

In 2013 Ashes series, chasing a target of 227, England required 21 off 24 balls with five wickets in hand when play was halted by the umpires due to bad light.

The bad light laws were again brought into question during the India vs Australia match at SCG in January last year when umpires called off play on the fourth day after ruling that light was poor to continue.

Former England captain Nasser Hussain wants the ICC to revisit its regulations related to bad light which has affected Test matches over the years. The officials on Wednesday were forced to call off the opening day of the first Test between England and the West Indies due to bad light and rain which saw only 17.

Former England captain Nasser Hussain wants the ICC to revisit its regulations related to bad light which has affected Test matches over the years. The officials on Wednesday were forced to call off the opening day of the first Test between England and the West Indies due to bad light and rain which saw only 17.4 overs being bowled. ICC leaves it "solely for the umpires together to decide" whether bad light mean that "it would be dangerous or unreasonable for play to take place." Hussain, who has scored 5764 runs in 96 Tests for England, feels perhaps the umpires can keep the players on the ground longer even if light might be considered poor. "It's one thing you have to try and explain to somebody new to the game. You spend a lot of money on lights, turn the lights on and go off for light. On this occasion, they've gone off for rain. It is something eventually that I'd like the ICC to change really," Hussain said on Sky Sports Cricket. "They might say 'You're a retired player' and (talk about) stats, but look at that, the lights are on. If it wasn't raining now, maybe the players could buy into the fact that the game needs to keep selling itself and if you can stay on, do stay on." The bad light laws have come for criticism in the past. In 2013 Ashes series, chasing a target of 227, England required 21 off 24 balls with five wickets in hand when play was halted by the umpires due to bad light. The bad light laws were again brought into question during the India vs Australia match at SCG in January last year when umpires called off play on the fourth day after ruling that light was poor to continue.

Nasser Hussain wants ICC to change its 'bad light' laws

Tokyo Olympics organisers are hoping to use all the venues as originally planned at the 2021 rearranged Games. Locking on the venues was a top priority for the organisers of the Tokyo Olympics as the Games were pushed back to 2021 due to COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

As per several reports in Japanese media, organisers are hopeful of using all the venues as planned in the Tokyo Olympics, which was supposed to be held in 2020 but was postponed amid coronavirus pandemic.

As per Kyodo and NHK, who cited unnamed sources, organisers of the 2021 Games are now confident that all the original venues would be tied down for the Olympics again.

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However, Tokyo 2020 spokesman Masa Takaya, at his weekly news conference, said the reports were “optimistic” but added that nothing has finalised and announced.&nbsp;

“We have seen a series of media reports concerning the status of securing venues for the Games in 2021,” said Takaya.

"Tokyo 2020 is aware of these reports but I need to be very clear ... this is not something on which Tokyo Metropolitan Government or the Tokyo organising committee has made a formal announcement.

The organising committee has not made such an announcement at this stage and during this process, it is very unfortunate to see such reports based on this optimistic view.”

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Earlier in June, Tokyo 2020 CEO Toshiro Muto had said that 80 per cent off all venues needed was already secured with Athlete’s Village and Tokyo Big Sight – the media centre – among those yet to be completely secured.

However, Thursday’s reports even stated that competition scheduled would remain mostly unchanged and all ticket holders would be eligible for refunds while adding that the organisers of the Games would seek approval of these decisions on IOC’s General Assembly on July 17.

When asked about those details, Takaya said nothing has been decided and Tokyo 2020 didn’t expect to seek approval from the IOC next week. 
&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Tokyo Olympics organisers are hoping to use all the venues as originally planned at the 2021 rearranged Games. Locking on the venues was a top priority for the organisers of the Tokyo Olympics as the Games were pushed back to 2021 due to COVID-19 pandemic.

Tokyo Olympics organisers are hoping to use all the venues as originally planned at the 2021 rearranged Games. Locking on the venues was a top priority for the organisers of the Tokyo Olympics as the Games were pushed back to 2021 due to COVID-19 pandemic. As per several reports in Japanese media, organisers are hopeful of using all the venues as planned in the Tokyo Olympics, which was supposed to be held in 2020 but was postponed amid coronavirus pandemic. As per Kyodo and NHK, who cited unnamed sources, organisers of the 2021 Games are now confident that all the original venues would be tied down for the Olympics again. ALSO READ: FIFA wants uniform global use of VAR, says refs chief Collina However, Tokyo 2020 spokesman Masa Takaya, at his weekly news conference, said the reports were “optimistic” but added that nothing has finalised and announced. “We have seen a series of media reports concerning the status of securing venues for the Games in 2021,” said Takaya. "Tokyo 2020 is aware of these reports but I need to be very clear ... this is not something on which Tokyo Metropolitan Government or the Tokyo organising committee has made a formal announcement. The organising committee has not made such an announcement at this stage and during this process, it is very unfortunate to see such reports based on this optimistic view.” ALSO READ: Chris Froome to leave Team Ineos at end of season Earlier in June, Tokyo 2020 CEO Toshiro Muto had said that 80 per cent off all venues needed was already secured with Athlete’s Village and Tokyo Big Sight – the media centre – among those yet to be completely secured. However, Thursday’s reports even stated that competition scheduled would remain mostly unchanged and all ticket holders would be eligible for refunds while adding that the organisers of the Games would seek approval of these decisions on IOC’s General Assembly on July 17. When asked about those details, Takaya said nothing has been decided and Tokyo 2020 didn’t expect to seek approval from the IOC next week.

Tokyo 2020 looks to secure all venues for the postponed Games: Reports

Real Betis have appointed former Real Madrid and Manchester City coach Manuel Pellegrini as their manager from next season on a three-year contract, the La Liga side said on Thursday.

Pellegrini, who won the Premier League with City in 2013-14 as well as two League Cups, returns to Spain where he had successful spells with Villarreal and Malaga.

The Chilean, 66, led Villarreal to the 2006 Champions League semi-finals and led Malaga into Europe’s premier club competition for the first time in 2012, leading them to the quarter-finals a year later.

"Real Betis has signed Chilean manager Manuel Pellegrini to take up the reins of the first team next season. The contract between Pellegrini and the club is until June 2023," the club said in a statement.

Pellegrini replaces coach Rubi who was sacked last month after Betis failed to win any of the first three matches in their return to action. Sporting director Alexis Trujillo was placed in interim charge until the end of the season.

Pellegrini’s last job was with Premier League side West Ham United, who sacked him in December after a string of poor results.

One of Spain’s best-supported clubs with more than 50,000 season ticket holders, Betis are currently 13th in the league with 41 points, 12 points above the relegation zone.

Real Betis have appointed former Real Madrid and Manchester City coach Manuel Pellegrini as their manager from next season on a three-year contract, the La Liga side said on Thursday.

Real Betis have appointed former Real Madrid and Manchester City coach Manuel Pellegrini as their manager from next season on a three-year contract, the La Liga side said on Thursday. Pellegrini, who won the Premier League with City in 2013-14 as well as two League Cups, returns to Spain where he had successful spells with Villarreal and Malaga. The Chilean, 66, led Villarreal to the 2006 Champions League semi-finals and led Malaga into Europe’s premier club competition for the first time in 2012, leading them to the quarter-finals a year later. "Real Betis has signed Chilean manager Manuel Pellegrini to take up the reins of the first team next season. The contract between Pellegrini and the club is until June 2023," the club said in a statement. Pellegrini replaces coach Rubi who was sacked last month after Betis failed to win any of the first three matches in their return to action. Sporting director Alexis Trujillo was placed in interim charge until the end of the season. Pellegrini’s last job was with Premier League side West Ham United, who sacked him in December after a string of poor results. One of Spain’s best-supported clubs with more than 50,000 season ticket holders, Betis are currently 13th in the league with 41 points, 12 points above the relegation zone.

Manuel Pellegrini named new Real Betis manager on three-year deal

The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) on Thursday officially announced the postponement of the much-talked-about Asia Cup 2020, which was scheduled to be held in September 2020, due to travel restrictions, country-specific quarantine requirements and health risks amid COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

The announcement by ACC comes after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly on Wednesday said that the tournament stands cancelled. Clearing every doubt, ACC officially announced the postponement of the Asia Cup 2020 on Thursday.&nbsp;

ACC, in a press release, said that conducting the event in a responsible manner remains the topmost priority of the ACC with the Board being optimistic of holding the event in 2021.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-2020-stands-cancelled-confirms-bcci-president-sourav-ganguly-311703" hreflang="en">Asia Cup 2020 stands cancelled, confirms BCCI president Sourav Ganguly</a>

Notably, the PCB has exchanged hosting rights for the tournament with Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) wit the rescheduled Asia Cup now expected to be held in June 2021 in Sri Lanka with Pakistan hosting the event in 2022.

<h2>Asian Cricket Council’s statement on Asia Cup 2020:</h2>

"The Executive Board of the ACC has met on multiple occasions to evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Asia Cup tournament scheduled in September 2020. &nbsp;

"From the onset, the Board was keen on organising the tournament as per the original schedule. However, travel restrictions, country-specific quarantine requirements, fundamental health risks and social distancing mandates have posed as substantial challenges to the holding of the Asia Cup. Above all, the risks related to health and safety of participating players, support staff, commercial partners, fans and the cricketing community were deemed to be significant. &nbsp;

"Accordingly, the Board, after careful consideration of all the above factors, has determined that the Asia Cup 2020 be postponed. Conducting the event in a responsible manner remains the priority of the ACC and the Board is hopeful that the tournament will be held in 2021. The ACC is currently working towards securing June 2021 as a suitable window for the same.

"It may also be noted that the hosts for the Asia Cup 2020, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), has exchanged hosting rights for the tournament with Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC). Through this arrangement, the SLC will now host the rescheduled Asia Cup expected in June 2021 while the PCB will host the Asia Cup 2022." 
&nbsp;

The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) on Thursday officially announced the postponement of the much-talked-about Asia Cup 2020, which was scheduled to be held in September 2020, due to travel restrictions, country-specific quarantine requirements and health risks amid COVID-19 pandemic.

The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) on Thursday officially announced the postponement of the much-talked-about Asia Cup 2020, which was scheduled to be held in September 2020, due to travel restrictions, country-specific quarantine requirements and health risks amid COVID-19 pandemic. The announcement by ACC comes after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly on Wednesday said that the tournament stands cancelled. Clearing every doubt, ACC officially announced the postponement of the Asia Cup 2020 on Thursday. ACC, in a press release, said that conducting the event in a responsible manner remains the topmost priority of the ACC with the Board being optimistic of holding the event in 2021. ALSO READ: Asia Cup 2020 stands cancelled, confirms BCCI president Sourav Ganguly Notably, the PCB has exchanged hosting rights for the tournament with Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) wit the rescheduled Asia Cup now expected to be held in June 2021 in Sri Lanka with Pakistan hosting the event in 2022. Asian Cricket Council’s statement on Asia Cup 2020: "The Executive Board of the ACC has met on multiple occasions to evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Asia Cup tournament scheduled in September 2020. "From the onset, the Board was keen on organising the tournament as per the original schedule. However, travel restrictions, country-specific quarantine requirements, fundamental health risks and social distancing mandates have posed as substantial challenges to the holding of the Asia Cup. Above all, the risks related to health and safety of participating players, support staff, commercial partners, fans and the cricketing community were deemed to be significant. "Accordingly, the Board, after careful consideration of all the above factors, has determined that the Asia Cup 2020 be postponed. Conducting the event in a responsible manner remains the priority of the ACC and the Board is hopeful that the tournament will be held in 2021. The ACC is currently working towards securing June 2021 as a suitable window for the same. "It may also be noted that the hosts for the Asia Cup 2020, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), has exchanged hosting rights for the tournament with Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC). Through this arrangement, the SLC will now host the rescheduled Asia Cup expected in June 2021 while the PCB will host the Asia Cup 2022."

Official: Asia Cup 2020 postponed, Sri Lanka to host tournament in 2021

England National Cricket Selectors have named a 24-strong ‘behind-closed-doors training group’ who will go into camp at the Ageas Bowl on Thursday 16 July ahead of the three-match ODI series against Ireland starting on Thursday 30 July.

The group, along with a separate white-ball management team, will live, prepare and train on-site at the Ageas Bowl. Two intra-group warm-up matches will take place on 21 July and 24 July. A final England squad for the Ireland series, plus a number of reserves, will be named at a later date.

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/england-west-indies-take-a-knee-in-first-test-as-cricket-returns-in-slightly-different-look-311689">England, West Indies take a knee in first Test as cricket returns in slightly different look</a>

England's Behind-Closed-Doors ODI Training Group:

Eoin Morgan (captain),&nbsp;Moeen Ali,&nbsp;Jonathan Bairstow,&nbsp;Tom Banton,&nbsp;Sam Billings,&nbsp;Henry Brookes,&nbsp;Brydon Carse,&nbsp;Tom Curran,&nbsp;Liam Dawson,&nbsp;Ben Duckett,&nbsp;Laurie Evans,&nbsp;Richard Gleeson,&nbsp;Lewis Gregory,&nbsp;Sam Hain&nbsp;(Warwickshire),&nbsp;Tom Helm,&nbsp;Liam Livingstone,&nbsp;Saqib Mahmood,&nbsp;Matthew Parkinson,&nbsp;Adil Rashid,&nbsp;Jason Roy,&nbsp;Phil Salt,&nbsp;Reece Topley,&nbsp;James Vince,&nbsp;David Willey.

Pat Brown (back), Chris Jordan (right arm) and Dawid Malan (right calf) were not considered for selection due to injury.

Commenting on the selection of the group, National Selector Ed Smith, said:

“Even with several multi-format players unavailable for the Ireland ODIs due to their Test commitments, there is real depth to England’s white ball-playing talent.

“Again, everyone at England cricket would like to thank all the county coaches and support staff who have helped these players in the lead up to the behind-closed-doors training camp.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-fans-celebrate-the-return-of-international-cricket-engvwi-on-twitter-311965" hreflang="en">Cricket fans celebrate the return of international cricket #ENGvWI on Twitter</a>

“We now look forward to hosting Ireland and continuing to develop our white-ball strength in depth.”

The England and Wales Cricket Board have also confirmed the white-ball coaching team for the ODI series against Ireland.

England Assistant Coach Paul Collingwood will assume the Head Coach role for the three-match series. He will be supported by Marcus Trescothick as batting coach, who has been seconded from Somerset. England Young Lions Coach Jon Lewis will be the Pace Bowling Coach and is supported by Neil Killeen from Durham.

Former Durham Head Coach and former Sri Lanka Batting Coach Jon Lewis will join the coaching set-up as Batting Coach working alongside Trescothick. Former South African left-arm spinner Claude Henderson has been appointed Spin Bowling Coach and former Essex wicketkeeper James Foster will take responsibility for the wicketkeepers.

ECB Performance Director, Mo Bobat, added: “As was the case with our Test preparations, the support that we have received from counties during our ODI return to training phase has been fantastic. Running concurrent training programmes across formats for a large pool of players has been a novel challenge and we are very appreciative of the commitment that counties have shown towards the national cause, particularly as they have been managing their own return to training.

“Paul’s (Collingwood) coaching team has an exciting feel to it with a number of coaches possessing rich international experience. Marcus (Trescothick) spent time with our England white-ball squads during the winter and Jon (Lewis) brings with him World Cup experience from his stint as Sri Lanka’s batting coach. Similarly, Claude (Henderson) has recently worked with the South African national team and brings real spin bowling expertise. From a pace bowling perspective, our players will be in safe hands with both Jon (Lewis) and Neil (Killeen), who over the years have fulfilled a number of important roles within our international pathway, working with many of the players in our senior sides today. James (Foster) completes the set and with his extensive experience of franchise competitions, will add significant value.

“We’re grateful where counties have released their coaches to join us behind closed doors and with Test cricket now underway, we’re all looking forward to progressing our preparations for the return of ODI cricket.”

<h2 data-ogsc="rgb(85, 85, 85)">England vs Ireland - ODI Series: Full Schedule</h2>

1st ODI v Ireland: Thursday 30 July at The Ageas Bowl&nbsp;

2nd ODI v Ireland: Saturday 1 August at The Ageas Bowl&nbsp;

3rd ODI v Ireland: Tuesday 4 August at The Ageas Bowl&nbsp;

England National Cricket Selectors have named a 24-strong ‘behind-closed-doors training group’ who will go into camp at the Ageas Bowl on Thursday 16 July ahead of the three-match ODI series against Ireland starting on Thursday 30 July.

England National Cricket Selectors have named a 24-strong ‘behind-closed-doors training group’ who will go into camp at the Ageas Bowl on Thursday 16 July ahead of the three-match ODI series against Ireland starting on Thursday 30 July. The group, along with a separate white-ball management team, will live, prepare and train on-site at the Ageas Bowl. Two intra-group warm-up matches will take place on 21 July and 24 July. A final England squad for the Ireland series, plus a number of reserves, will be named at a later date. IN PICS | England, West Indies take a knee in first Test as cricket returns in slightly different look England's Behind-Closed-Doors ODI Training Group: Eoin Morgan (captain), Moeen Ali, Jonathan Bairstow, Tom Banton, Sam Billings, Henry Brookes, Brydon Carse, Tom Curran, Liam Dawson, Ben Duckett, Laurie Evans, Richard Gleeson, Lewis Gregory, Sam Hain (Warwickshire), Tom Helm, Liam Livingstone, Saqib Mahmood, Matthew Parkinson, Adil Rashid, Jason Roy, Phil Salt, Reece Topley, James Vince, David Willey. Pat Brown (back), Chris Jordan (right arm) and Dawid Malan (right calf) were not considered for selection due to injury. Commenting on the selection of the group, National Selector Ed Smith, said: “Even with several multi-format players unavailable for the Ireland ODIs due to their Test commitments, there is real depth to England’s white ball-playing talent. “Again, everyone at England cricket would like to thank all the county coaches and support staff who have helped these players in the lead up to the behind-closed-doors training camp. ALSO READ: Cricket fans celebrate the return of international cricket #ENGvWI on Twitter “We now look forward to hosting Ireland and continuing to develop our white-ball strength in depth.” The England and Wales Cricket Board have also confirmed the white-ball coaching team for the ODI series against Ireland. England Assistant Coach Paul Collingwood will assume the Head Coach role for the three-match series. He will be supported by Marcus Trescothick as batting coach, who has been seconded from Somerset. England Young Lions Coach Jon Lewis will be the Pace Bowling Coach and is supported by Neil Killeen from Durham. Former Durham Head Coach and former Sri Lanka Batting Coach Jon Lewis will join the coaching set-up as Batting Coach working alongside Trescothick. Former South African left-arm spinner Claude Henderson has been appointed Spin Bowling Coach and former Essex wicketkeeper James Foster will take responsibility for the wicketkeepers. ECB Performance Director, Mo Bobat, added: “As was the case with our Test preparations, the support that we have received from counties during our ODI return to training phase has been fantastic. Running concurrent training programmes across formats for a large pool of players has been a novel challenge and we are very appreciative of the commitment that counties have shown towards the national cause, particularly as they have been managing their own return to training. “Paul’s (Collingwood) coaching team has an exciting feel to it with a number of coaches possessing rich international experience. Marcus (Trescothick) spent time with our England white-ball squads during the winter and Jon (Lewis) brings with him World Cup experience from his stint as Sri Lanka’s batting coach. Similarly, Claude (Henderson) has recently worked with the South African national team and brings real spin bowling expertise. From a pace bowling perspective, our players will be in safe hands with both Jon (Lewis) and Neil (Killeen), who over the years have fulfilled a number of important roles within our international pathway, working with many of the players in our senior sides today. James (Foster) completes the set and with his extensive experience of franchise competitions, will add significant value. “We’re grateful where counties have released their coaches to join us behind closed doors and with Test cricket now underway, we’re all looking forward to progressing our preparations for the return of ODI cricket.” England vs Ireland - ODI Series: Full Schedule 1st ODI v Ireland: Thursday 30 July at The Ageas Bowl 2nd ODI v Ireland: Saturday 1 August at The Ageas Bowl 3rd ODI v Ireland: Tuesday 4 August at The Ageas Bowl

ENG vs IRE: England announces 24-man training group for ODI series against Ireland

Former West Indies cricketer turned commentator Michael Holding didn’t hold back his words as he delivered a powerful message against racism on Wednesday while saying the black race has been “dehumanized” and its accomplishment wiped off from a history “written by people who do them harm”.

Holding, who wishes to retire from the commentary box at the end of next year, spoke about racism before the start of the much-awaited England vs West Indies first Test in Southampton. The entire cricketing world tuned in to witness international cricket come back to life after 117 days and it was a perfect opportunity to send a strong message against racism, which Holding and co-commentator and former England captain Nasser Hussain did.&nbsp;

"...when I say education I mean going back in history. What people need to understand, these things stem from hundred years ago," the former pace great said on Sky Sports.

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/england-west-indies-take-a-knee-in-first-test-as-cricket-returns-in-slightly-different-look-311689" hreflang="en">England, West Indies take a knee in first Test as cricket returns in slightly different look</a>

"The dehumanization of the black race is where it started and people will tell you that's a long time ago, get over it. No, you don't get over things like that and the society has not gotten over something like that," he said.

While players, support staff, umpires took a knee before the start of Day 1’ play, everyone including the commentators and broadcast team had BLM logos engraved on their shirts.&nbsp;

Holding further said that people have been brainwashed over the years by an education system that portrayed black race negatively while refusing to credit them for contributing to humanity’s advancement.&nbsp;

<img alt="West Indies take a knee" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d71df332-451c-482f-ab16-f836fdad1626" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1UU006.jpg" />

"History is written by the conqueror, not by those who are conquered, history is written by people who do them harm, not by those who get harmed...We are being brainwashed, not just black people, white people are being brainwashed in different ways," he said.

"Think about religion ... Look at Jesus Christ, the image that they give of him: pale skin, blond hair, blue eyes. Where Jesus came from, who in that part of the world looks that way but again this is brainwashing to show this is what perfection is.

"If you look at the plays of those days, Judas who betrayed Jesus, he is a black man, again brainwashing people into thinking he is a black man, he is the bad man."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealand-offering-to-host-ipl-2020-is-speculation-nzc-spokesperson-311880" hreflang="en">New Zealand offering to host IPL 2020 is speculation: NZC spokesperson</a>

While citing the recent incident where a white woman called the police on a black bird-watcher in New York, Holding said her actions were based on established perception.&nbsp;

"...by the time he (the black man) proves he is not guilty, he might be dead. she had that thing in her mind from day one. That's why she said and did what she did," Holding said.

"They keep telling me there is nothing called white privilege, give me a break, I haven't seen white people go into a store and being followed. A black man walks in, and someone is following him everywhere he goes, that is basic white privilege," he explained.

"Whether that white person ends up robbing the place or not, he is not being thought in that way, and things like that have to change," he asserted.

Talking about how the achievements of black people have been ignored over the years, Holding said: "...everybody knows Thomas Edison invented the light bulb with a paper filament, can you tell me who invented the filament that makes these lights shine throughout? Nobody knows because he was a black man, it was not taught in schools.

"Lewis Latimer invented the carbon filament, who knows that. Everything should be taught. I was never taught anything good about black people and you cannot have a society that is brought up like that, both black and white, that only teach what is convenient."

While the light bulb was discovered by Edison but Latimer invented the carbon filament which was used to create longer-lasting bulbs.

Former England skipper Naseer Hussain, who was also present during the discussion on racism, said it's been too long that people have been looking away.

"I sat there six weeks ago and I watched a black man being killed in front of my eyes. My natural reaction is to look away ... the next time, it came on, because of the protest, I forced myself to watch, because I felt something inside me tell that Naseer you have been looking away for too long," he said.

"We all have been looking away for too long. The players should be proud of wearing these badges but really, it's 2020 and we have to wear a badge saying black lives matter, really?"

Asked if he had ever faced racism in his life, Hussain said: "Of course, I have (faced racism), with my surname growing up ... with an Indian dad and an English mom, probably getting a bit from both sides."

"While fielding in the boundary in various parts of the world and people say 'hey Saddam'," he added.&nbsp;

(Inputs from PTI)

Former West Indies cricketer turned commentator Michael Holding didn’t hold back his words as he delivered a powerful message against racism on Wednesday while saying the black race has been “dehumanized” and its accomplishment wiped off from a history “written by people who do them harm”.

Former West Indies cricketer turned commentator Michael Holding didn’t hold back his words as he delivered a powerful message against racism on Wednesday while saying the black race has been “dehumanized” and its accomplishment wiped off from a history “written by people who do them harm”. Holding, who wishes to retire from the commentary box at the end of next year, spoke about racism before the start of the much-awaited England vs West Indies first Test in Southampton. The entire cricketing world tuned in to witness international cricket come back to life after 117 days and it was a perfect opportunity to send a strong message against racism, which Holding and co-commentator and former England captain Nasser Hussain did. "...when I say education I mean going back in history. What people need to understand, these things stem from hundred years ago," the former pace great said on Sky Sports. IN PICS | England, West Indies take a knee in first Test as cricket returns in slightly different look "The dehumanization of the black race is where it started and people will tell you that's a long time ago, get over it. No, you don't get over things like that and the society has not gotten over something like that," he said. While players, support staff, umpires took a knee before the start of Day 1’ play, everyone including the commentators and broadcast team had BLM logos engraved on their shirts. Holding further said that people have been brainwashed over the years by an education system that portrayed black race negatively while refusing to credit them for contributing to humanity’s advancement. "History is written by the conqueror, not by those who are conquered, history is written by people who do them harm, not by those who get harmed...We are being brainwashed, not just black people, white people are being brainwashed in different ways," he said. "Think about religion ... Look at Jesus Christ, the image that they give of him: pale skin, blond hair, blue eyes. Where Jesus came from, who in that part of the world looks that way but again this is brainwashing to show this is what perfection is. "If you look at the plays of those days, Judas who betrayed Jesus, he is a black man, again brainwashing people into thinking he is a black man, he is the bad man." ALSO READ: New Zealand offering to host IPL 2020 is speculation: NZC spokesperson While citing the recent incident where a white woman called the police on a black bird-watcher in New York, Holding said her actions were based on established perception. "...by the time he (the black man) proves he is not guilty, he might be dead. she had that thing in her mind from day one. That's why she said and did what she did," Holding said. "They keep telling me there is nothing called white privilege, give me a break, I haven't seen white people go into a store and being followed. A black man walks in, and someone is following him everywhere he goes, that is basic white privilege," he explained. "Whether that white person ends up robbing the place or not, he is not being thought in that way, and things like that have to change," he asserted. Talking about how the achievements of black people have been ignored over the years, Holding said: "...everybody knows Thomas Edison invented the light bulb with a paper filament, can you tell me who invented the filament that makes these lights shine throughout? Nobody knows because he was a black man, it was not taught in schools. "Lewis Latimer invented the carbon filament, who knows that. Everything should be taught. I was never taught anything good about black people and you cannot have a society that is brought up like that, both black and white, that only teach what is convenient." While the light bulb was discovered by Edison but Latimer invented the carbon filament which was used to create longer-lasting bulbs. Former England skipper Naseer Hussain, who was also present during the discussion on racism, said it's been too long that people have been looking away. "I sat there six weeks ago and I watched a black man being killed in front of my eyes. My natural reaction is to look away ... the next time, it came on, because of the protest, I forced myself to watch, because I felt something inside me tell that Naseer you have been looking away for too long," he said. "We all have been looking away for too long. The players should be proud of wearing these badges but really, it's 2020 and we have to wear a badge saying black lives matter, really?" Asked if he had ever faced racism in his life, Hussain said: "Of course, I have (faced racism), with my surname growing up ... with an Indian dad and an English mom, probably getting a bit from both sides." "While fielding in the boundary in various parts of the world and people say 'hey Saddam'," he added. (Inputs from PTI)

Michael Holding on racism: 'Until we educate the entire human race, racism will not stop'

FIFA wants VAR video reviews to be applied in the same way across all competitions, as they take over direct responsibility for the system.

Issues concerning VAR have been handled primarily by IFAB, the game’s law-making body, during the system’s two-year experimental phase and its introduction as part of the laws of the game.

Soccer’s global governing body FIFA, however, took over the role of supporting competition organisers with the implementation of VAR from July 1.

Pierluigi Collina, the Italian former World Cup referee and chairman of FIFA’s Referees’ Committee, told Reuters the move was a “natural transition”.

“IFAB as an organisation has the duty to govern the laws of football, including VAR and the protocol and regulations. Once the laws of the game are set, IFAB’s job is over,” he said.

“It is then FIFA that deals with referees’ education around the world supporting all the member associations.”

There have been some variations in the use of VAR in different competitions and national leagues, but Collina said there should be a uniform approach.

“Another responsibility of FIFA’s is to have the laws of the game implemented all over the world in the same way, there cannot be different implementation of the laws of the game in different continents or different countries. Our responsibility is to ensure that football is played in the same way all over the world.

“Can you imagine in international competition played by teams who are used to having different interpretations of the laws of the game in their domestic competition? Saying that VAR should be used in the same way all over the world is something obvious.

“Of course there can be some small differences, but the general implementation should be the same.

“It is FIFA and IFAB’s responsibility to have the game played the same way across the world, for the benefit of those who are playing,” he said.

The Premier League has not used VAR to check for encroachment off the line by goalkeepers during penalty kicks despite that element being part of the protocol.

Speaking generally, Collina said FIFA wanted to avoid situations where players in an international tournament faced surprise decisions.

“If something is written in the laws of the game, it has to be implemented everywhere, otherwise can you imagine the surprise of someone who is penalised for something in an international game that he is not penalised for at home?

“Maybe they would not be aware of what they can do? If something in the laws of the game doesn’t work, then it is discussed and eventually changed by IFAB,” he said.

FIFA wants VAR video reviews to be applied in the same way across all competitions, as they take over direct responsibility for the system. Issues concerning VAR have been handled primarily by IFAB, the game’s law-making body, during the system’s two-year experimental phase and its introduction as part of the laws of the game.

FIFA wants VAR video reviews to be applied in the same way across all competitions, as they take over direct responsibility for the system. Issues concerning VAR have been handled primarily by IFAB, the game’s law-making body, during the system’s two-year experimental phase and its introduction as part of the laws of the game. Soccer’s global governing body FIFA, however, took over the role of supporting competition organisers with the implementation of VAR from July 1. Pierluigi Collina, the Italian former World Cup referee and chairman of FIFA’s Referees’ Committee, told Reuters the move was a “natural transition”. “IFAB as an organisation has the duty to govern the laws of football, including VAR and the protocol and regulations. Once the laws of the game are set, IFAB’s job is over,” he said. “It is then FIFA that deals with referees’ education around the world supporting all the member associations.” There have been some variations in the use of VAR in different competitions and national leagues, but Collina said there should be a uniform approach. “Another responsibility of FIFA’s is to have the laws of the game implemented all over the world in the same way, there cannot be different implementation of the laws of the game in different continents or different countries. Our responsibility is to ensure that football is played in the same way all over the world. “Can you imagine in international competition played by teams who are used to having different interpretations of the laws of the game in their domestic competition? Saying that VAR should be used in the same way all over the world is something obvious. “Of course there can be some small differences, but the general implementation should be the same. “It is FIFA and IFAB’s responsibility to have the game played the same way across the world, for the benefit of those who are playing,” he said. The Premier League has not used VAR to check for encroachment off the line by goalkeepers during penalty kicks despite that element being part of the protocol. Speaking generally, Collina said FIFA wanted to avoid situations where players in an international tournament faced surprise decisions. “If something is written in the laws of the game, it has to be implemented everywhere, otherwise can you imagine the surprise of someone who is penalised for something in an international game that he is not penalised for at home? “Maybe they would not be aware of what they can do? If something in the laws of the game doesn’t work, then it is discussed and eventually changed by IFAB,” he said.

FIFA wants uniform global use of VAR, says refs chief Collina

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