The Chinese Super League season will begin on July 25 after the coronavirus pandemic delayed it by five months, the country's football association said on Wednesday.

The 16-team competition, which had been originally due to kick off in February, will be split into two groups, one in the northeastern city of Dalian and the other in Suzhou, near Shanghai, the China Football Association (CFA) said.

It is a major boost for sport in China and another sign of life returning to normality in the country where COVID-19 emerged late last year before spreading globally.

The CFA said the league would "strictly abide by the requirements of national epidemic prevention work".

The CSL, which has drawn international interest in recent years by luring big-name players and coaches on world-leading wages, had been scheduled to start on February 22.

However, it became one of the first sporting victims of the coronavirus in January when the new season was indefinitely postponed.

The Chinese Super League season will begin on July 25 after the coronavirus pandemic delayed it by five months, the country's football association said on Wednesday.

The Chinese Super League season will begin on July 25 after the coronavirus pandemic delayed it by five months, the country's football association said on Wednesday. The 16-team competition, which had been originally due to kick off in February, will be split into two groups, one in the northeastern city of Dalian and the other in Suzhou, near Shanghai, the China Football Association (CFA) said. It is a major boost for sport in China and another sign of life returning to normality in the country where COVID-19 emerged late last year before spreading globally. The CFA said the league would "strictly abide by the requirements of national epidemic prevention work". The CSL, which has drawn international interest in recent years by luring big-name players and coaches on world-leading wages, had been scheduled to start on February 22. However, it became one of the first sporting victims of the coronavirus in January when the new season was indefinitely postponed.

Chinese Super League football season to begin July 25

Serbia Prime Minister Ana Brnabic has supported world no. 1 tennis player Novak Djokovic after the Serbian ace was massively criticized after conducting the ill-fated Adria Open in Serbia and Croatia. Four tennis players, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serbian-tennis-ace-novak-djokovic-tests-positive-for-covid-19-307966">including Djokovic</a>, were tested positive following the event with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-am-deeply-sorry-we-were-wrong-novak-djokovic-issues-apology-on-adria-tour-after-testing-positive-for-coronavirus-308169">Serbian releasing a heartfelt apology</a> for the fiasco.&nbsp;

Brnabic said Djokovic tried to do something for the whole region and wanted to help young and non-established tennis players while raising money for humanitarian purposes. The Serbian PM further urged everyone should leave Djokovic alone and rather shift the blame on her.

"Every part of him. He tried to do something good for the whole region," Brnabic said in an interview with PinkTV.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/novak-djokovics-faulty-serve-to-the-tennis-world-308282" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/novak-djokovics-faulty-serve-to-the-tennis-world-308282&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwju0POMqKzqAhVIzzgGHbPNA_0QFjADegQICRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw22OBXqtziTPxaCGuCIHBmW" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/novak-djokovics-faulty-serve-to-the-tennis-world-308282" target="_blank">Novak&nbsp;Djokovic's&nbsp;faulty serve to the tennis world</a>

"To put politics aside and help young and non-established tennis players, as well as to raise money for humanitarian purposes. If they could shift the blame on me personally, as Prime Minister, and leave Novak alone, I would love it," she added.

Djokovic has also found support in Manchester United and Serbian international Nemanja Matic as the midfielder said that the situation in Serbia was completely different from other parts of the world and Djokovic did nothing wrong by conducting the event.

The likes of Grigor Dimitrov, Borna Coric and Viktor Troicki were tested positive for COVID-19 after attending the Belgrade leg of the exhibition event. Djokovic and his wife were also tested positive for the dreaded virus with NBA star Nikola Jokic, who attended the event in Serbia, also contracted the virus.&nbsp;

Some of the tennis players, including Djokovic, were also seen partying at a nightclub in Belgrade to celebrate the success of Adria Tour before all hell broke loose.

"People need to understand that the situation in Serbia was better than here. The country allowed everyone to do whatever they want, everything was open, the shopping centres and the restaurants," Matic told Sky Sports.

Djokovic’s move to organise Adria Tour received <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nick-kyrgios-reacts-as-novak-djokovic-tests-positive-for-covid-19-posts-video-of-tennis-players-partying-after-adria-tour-307992">heavy bashing from ace tennis player Nick Kyrgios</a> with former Indian tennis player Vijay Amritraj also terming the event as “surprising.” 
&nbsp;

Serbia Prime Minister Ana Brnabic has supported world no. 1 tennis player Novak Djokovic after the Serbian ace was massively criticized after conducting the ill-fated Adria Open in Serbia and Croatia.

Serbia Prime Minister Ana Brnabic has supported world no. 1 tennis player Novak Djokovic after the Serbian ace was massively criticized after conducting the ill-fated Adria Open in Serbia and Croatia. Four tennis players, including Djokovic, were tested positive following the event with the Serbian releasing a heartfelt apology for the fiasco. Brnabic said Djokovic tried to do something for the whole region and wanted to help young and non-established tennis players while raising money for humanitarian purposes. The Serbian PM further urged everyone should leave Djokovic alone and rather shift the blame on her. "Every part of him. He tried to do something good for the whole region," Brnabic said in an interview with PinkTV. ALSO READ: Novak Djokovic's faulty serve to the tennis world "To put politics aside and help young and non-established tennis players, as well as to raise money for humanitarian purposes. If they could shift the blame on me personally, as Prime Minister, and leave Novak alone, I would love it," she added. Djokovic has also found support in Manchester United and Serbian international Nemanja Matic as the midfielder said that the situation in Serbia was completely different from other parts of the world and Djokovic did nothing wrong by conducting the event. The likes of Grigor Dimitrov, Borna Coric and Viktor Troicki were tested positive for COVID-19 after attending the Belgrade leg of the exhibition event. Djokovic and his wife were also tested positive for the dreaded virus with NBA star Nikola Jokic, who attended the event in Serbia, also contracted the virus. Some of the tennis players, including Djokovic, were also seen partying at a nightclub in Belgrade to celebrate the success of Adria Tour before all hell broke loose. "People need to understand that the situation in Serbia was better than here. The country allowed everyone to do whatever they want, everything was open, the shopping centres and the restaurants," Matic told Sky Sports. Djokovic’s move to organise Adria Tour received heavy bashing from ace tennis player Nick Kyrgios with former Indian tennis player Vijay Amritraj also terming the event as “surprising.”

Blame me but leave Novak Djokovic alone: Serbian Prime Minister Ana Brnabic

ICC Chairman Shashank Manohar has stepped down after two, two-year tenures as the head of the cricket body. The ICC Board met on Wednesday and decided that Deputy Chairman Imran Khawaja will take the charge until Manohar’s successor is elected.

The process for the Chairperson election is likely to be approved by the ICC Board within the next week.&nbsp;

Manohar, as per the ICC rules, could have stayed for another two-year-term as a maximum of three terms is allowed. However, he decided not to continue ahead of the all-important ICC meeting. As per reports, England’s Colin Graves is the frontrunner to succeed Manohar but recently, former Cricket West Indies chief Dave Cameron has also joined the race recently.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chinese-sponsors-in-ipl-bcci-unlikely-to-cut-ties-if-exit-clause-favours-vivo-309925" hreflang="en">Chinese sponsors in IPL: BCCI unlikely to cut ties if 'exit clause' favours VIVO</a>

ICC Chief Executive Manu Sawhney said: “On behalf of the ICC Board and staff and the whole cricket family, I would like to thank Shashank for his leadership and everything he has done for the sport as ICC Chairman. We wish him and his family all the very best for the future.”

ICC Deputy Chairman Imran Khwaja added: “Everyone on the ICC Board extends their wholehearted thanks to Shashank for the commitment he has shown to our sport. There is no doubt that cricket owes Shashank a debt of gratitude for all he has done for the sport. He has left cricket and the ICC in a better place than he found it.”

ICC Chairman Shashank Manohar has stepped down after two, two-year tenures as the head of the cricket body. The ICC Board met on Wednesday and decided that Deputy Chairman Imran Khawaja will take the charge until Manohar’s successor is elected.

ICC Chairman Shashank Manohar has stepped down after two, two-year tenures as the head of the cricket body. The ICC Board met on Wednesday and decided that Deputy Chairman Imran Khawaja will take the charge until Manohar’s successor is elected. The process for the Chairperson election is likely to be approved by the ICC Board within the next week. Manohar, as per the ICC rules, could have stayed for another two-year-term as a maximum of three terms is allowed. However, he decided not to continue ahead of the all-important ICC meeting. As per reports, England’s Colin Graves is the frontrunner to succeed Manohar but recently, former Cricket West Indies chief Dave Cameron has also joined the race recently. ALSO READ: Chinese sponsors in IPL: BCCI unlikely to cut ties if 'exit clause' favours VIVO ICC Chief Executive Manu Sawhney said: “On behalf of the ICC Board and staff and the whole cricket family, I would like to thank Shashank for his leadership and everything he has done for the sport as ICC Chairman. We wish him and his family all the very best for the future.” ICC Deputy Chairman Imran Khwaja added: “Everyone on the ICC Board extends their wholehearted thanks to Shashank for the commitment he has shown to our sport. There is no doubt that cricket owes Shashank a debt of gratitude for all he has done for the sport. He has left cricket and the ICC in a better place than he found it.”

Shashank Manohar quits as ICC Chairman, Imran Khawaja named interim head

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is highly unlikely to cut ties with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">IPL</a> title sponsors VIVO if the ‘exit clause’ favours the Chinese mobile phone makers, a senior BCCI official said on Wednesday. On June 19, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">IPL</a> took to social media platform Twitter to state that there would be a meeting to review the tournament’s various sponsor deals. However, that meeting is yet to take place.

Following the violent clash on June 15 in eastern Ladakh, the central government decided to ban 59 Chinese apps including the controversial TikTok. The BCCI official further said that the board never used the words ‘cancel’ or ‘terminate’ the deals.&nbsp;

"We still don't know about the fate of T20 World Cup, Asia Cup, so how can we just have a meeting? Yes, we need to discuss sponsorship but we never used the word cancel or terminate," a senior BCCI official, who also sits in IPL GC meetings, told PTI on conditions of anonymity.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wc-2011-match-fixing-investigation-upul-tharanga-grilled-by-siu-kumar-sangakkara-to-appear-next-309908" hreflang="en">WC 2011 match-fixing investigation: Upul Tharanga grilled by SIU, Kumar Sangakkara to appear next</a>

<h2>We will only terminate if 'Exit Clause' favours us: BCCI official on Chinese sponsorship in IPL</h2>

"We said we will review sponsorship. Review means that we need to check all the modalities of the contract. If the 'Exit Clause' favours VIVO more, why should we terminate a Rs 440 crore per year contract? We will only terminate if 'Exit Clause' favours us," he added.

As per the PTI report, some BCCI officials are of the view that the board should honour the contract, which ends in 2022, unless VIVO backs out. Termination of the contract could mean that the Indian cricket board may have to pay substantial compensation.

However, the likes of PayTM, Dream XI, BYJUs and SWIGGY, who all have Chinese investors, might not have to sweat as they are Indian entities.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-news-ms-dhoni-named-captain-as-ab-de-villiers-picks-his-all-time-ipl-xi-309866" hreflang="en">MS Dhoni named captain as AB de Villiers picks his all-time IPL XI</a>

"Taking note of the border skirmish that resulted in the martyrdom of our brave jawans, the IPL Governing Council has convened a meeting next week to review IPL's various sponsorship deals," the official IPL twitter handle had stated on Friday, June 19.

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Taking note of the border skirmish that resulted in the martyrdom of our brave jawans, the IPL Governing Council has convened a meeting next week to review IPL’s various sponsorship deals 🇮🇳
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1274027565926060034?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Interestingly, no meeting has been scheduled even after nearly two weeks of the tweet from IPL.

"I have called the IPL chairman (Brijesh Patel) and CEO (Rahul Johri) after I saw the tweet. But till date, I haven't been intimated about any meeting. Possibly, they want to have a big meeting once the T20 World Cup is officially postponed," one of the veteran GC members said.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is highly unlikely to cut ties with IPL title sponsors VIVO if the ‘exit clause’ favours the Chinese mobile phone makers, a senior BCCI official said on Wednesday.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is highly unlikely to cut ties with IPL title sponsors VIVO if the ‘exit clause’ favours the Chinese mobile phone makers, a senior BCCI official said on Wednesday. On June 19, IPL took to social media platform Twitter to state that there would be a meeting to review the tournament’s various sponsor deals. However, that meeting is yet to take place. Following the violent clash on June 15 in eastern Ladakh, the central government decided to ban 59 Chinese apps including the controversial TikTok. The BCCI official further said that the board never used the words ‘cancel’ or ‘terminate’ the deals. "We still don't know about the fate of T20 World Cup, Asia Cup, so how can we just have a meeting? Yes, we need to discuss sponsorship but we never used the word cancel or terminate," a senior BCCI official, who also sits in IPL GC meetings, told PTI on conditions of anonymity. ALSO READ: WC 2011 match-fixing investigation: Upul Tharanga grilled by SIU, Kumar Sangakkara to appear next We will only terminate if 'Exit Clause' favours us: BCCI official on Chinese sponsorship in IPL "We said we will review sponsorship. Review means that we need to check all the modalities of the contract. If the 'Exit Clause' favours VIVO more, why should we terminate a Rs 440 crore per year contract? We will only terminate if 'Exit Clause' favours us," he added. As per the PTI report, some BCCI officials are of the view that the board should honour the contract, which ends in 2022, unless VIVO backs out. Termination of the contract could mean that the Indian cricket board may have to pay substantial compensation. However, the likes of PayTM, Dream XI, BYJUs and SWIGGY, who all have Chinese investors, might not have to sweat as they are Indian entities. ALSO READ: MS Dhoni named captain as AB de Villiers picks his all-time IPL XI "Taking note of the border skirmish that resulted in the martyrdom of our brave jawans, the IPL Governing Council has convened a meeting next week to review IPL's various sponsorship deals," the official IPL twitter handle had stated on Friday, June 19. Taking note of the border skirmish that resulted in the martyrdom of our brave jawans, the IPL Governing Council has convened a meeting next week to review IPL’s various sponsorship deals 🇮🇳 — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) June 19, 2020 × Interestingly, no meeting has been scheduled even after nearly two weeks of the tweet from IPL. "I have called the IPL chairman (Brijesh Patel) and CEO (Rahul Johri) after I saw the tweet. But till date, I haven't been intimated about any meeting. Possibly, they want to have a big meeting once the T20 World Cup is officially postponed," one of the veteran GC members said.

Chinese sponsors in IPL: BCCI unlikely to cut ties if 'exit clause' favours VIVO

Andy Murray says he is serving at full throttle again as he bids to rebuild his injury-ravaged career when tennis returns after the coronavirus shutdown.

The three-time Grand Slam champion played his first tournament since last November at the Battle of the Brits event last week.

The ATP and WTA tours are due to return next month, with the US Open starting on August 31 and the French Open beginning a month later.

Murray, who is set to return to action at the Washington Open in mid-August, is planning to play both the Grand Slam events.

"Getting the US Open and the French Open played this year is a good thing, I think," the 33-year-old told the BBC.

"It's positive, I just don't like the way the French Open went about scheduling their event.

"But we're going to have to go back to playing at some stage. The most important thing is that the events are safe."

Murray had career-saving hip surgery in 2019, before suffering another setback with a pelvic injury.

The British former world number one was upbeat about his fitness following the Battle of the Brits event, where he reached the semi-finals.

"I am able to serve well again and am able to serve as hard as I was in my mid-20s, which given I didn't know I was going to be able to play again has been really positive," he said.

"Obviously when you are able to serve bigger and harder, it means more shorter points -- and that means good news for the body and the hip. The harder I serve, the better it is for my other hip I guess."

The French Open was switched from its traditional May-June slot because of the pandemic, with September 20 pencilled in as a start date.

French tennis chiefs were heavily criticised by players and rival tournaments over a lack of consultation.

Now the Paris main draw of the season's final Grand Slam event will begin a week later and finish on October 11.

Andy Murray says he is serving at full throttle again as he bids to rebuild his injury-ravaged career when tennis returns after the coronavirus shutdown. The three-time Grand Slam champion played his first tournament since last November at the Battle of the Brits event last week.

Andy Murray says he is serving at full throttle again as he bids to rebuild his injury-ravaged career when tennis returns after the coronavirus shutdown. The three-time Grand Slam champion played his first tournament since last November at the Battle of the Brits event last week. The ATP and WTA tours are due to return next month, with the US Open starting on August 31 and the French Open beginning a month later. Murray, who is set to return to action at the Washington Open in mid-August, is planning to play both the Grand Slam events. "Getting the US Open and the French Open played this year is a good thing, I think," the 33-year-old told the BBC. "It's positive, I just don't like the way the French Open went about scheduling their event. "But we're going to have to go back to playing at some stage. The most important thing is that the events are safe." Murray had career-saving hip surgery in 2019, before suffering another setback with a pelvic injury. The British former world number one was upbeat about his fitness following the Battle of the Brits event, where he reached the semi-finals. "I am able to serve well again and am able to serve as hard as I was in my mid-20s, which given I didn't know I was going to be able to play again has been really positive," he said. "Obviously when you are able to serve bigger and harder, it means more shorter points -- and that means good news for the body and the hip. The harder I serve, the better it is for my other hip I guess." The French Open was switched from its traditional May-June slot because of the pandemic, with September 20 pencilled in as a start date. French tennis chiefs were heavily criticised by players and rival tournaments over a lack of consultation. Now the Paris main draw of the season's final Grand Slam event will begin a week later and finish on October 11.

Big-serving Murray upbeat as he plans for return

Sri Lanka opener Upul Tharanga was the first player to be questioned by the detectives, on Wednesday, in a probe investigating claims that the final of 2011 World Cup was fixed. Tharanga was quizzed for two hours by the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) examining the conduct of the final, which Sri Lanka lost to India.&nbsp;

Tharanga was questioned after the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aravinda-de-silva-questioned-for-6-hours-over-2011-wc-final-match-fixing-allegations-kumar-sangakkara-upul-tharanga-summoned-309875"> then-chief selector of Sri Lanka Aravinda de Silva was interviewed for around six hours on Tuesday.</a>

"They asked a few questions in connection with the ongoing investigation. I gave my statement," Tharanga told reporters without giving further details.

<h2>Kumar Sangakkara to be questioned next</h2>

Police confirmed that the then-captain of Sri Lanka and the present president of Marylebone Cricket Club in London, Kumar Sangakkara will be the next player to be questioned from the squad. Sangakkara has been asked to report to the SIU on Thursday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aravinda-de-silva-questioned-for-6-hours-over-2011-wc-final-match-fixing-allegations-kumar-sangakkara-upul-tharanga-summoned-309875" hreflang="en">Aravinda de Silva questioned for 6 hours over 2011 WC final match-fixing allegations; Kumar Sangakkara, Upul Tharanga summoned</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/was-2011-world-cup-final-fixed-kumar-sangakkara-mahela-jayawardene-respond-to-shocking-claims-by-former-sri-lanka-sports-minister-306812">Sangakkara had earlier said that proper evidence should be put forward to the ICC</a> after the then-sports minister of Sri Lanka Mahindananda Aluthgamage claimed that Sri Lanka “sold” the 2011 World Cup final.

"I feel I can talk about it now," Mahindananda Aluthgamage told a local TV network last month. "I am not connecting players, but some sections were involved."

Sri Lanka posted 274/6 off 50 overs before India chased down the target courtesy Gautam Gambhir’s 97 and MS Dhoni’s unbeaten 91. Sri Lanka were criticized for their poor bowling and fielding as India won the match by six wickets.

The toss in the summit class was also controversial as it took place twice after match referee Jeff Crowe apparently didn’t hear the call by Sangakkara and asked Dhoni to flip the coin again. Sri Lanka’s decision to bat first was also slammed by many.

Match-fixing was made a criminal offence in November. Offenders face fines of up to 100 million rupees ($555,000) and up to 10 years' jail.

Sri Lanka opener Upul Tharanga was the first player to be questioned by the detectives, on Wednesday, in a probe investigating claims that the final of 2011 World Cup was fixed.

Sri Lanka opener Upul Tharanga was the first player to be questioned by the detectives, on Wednesday, in a probe investigating claims that the final of 2011 World Cup was fixed. Tharanga was quizzed for two hours by the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) examining the conduct of the final, which Sri Lanka lost to India. Tharanga was questioned after the then-chief selector of Sri Lanka Aravinda de Silva was interviewed for around six hours on Tuesday. "They asked a few questions in connection with the ongoing investigation. I gave my statement," Tharanga told reporters without giving further details. Kumar Sangakkara to be questioned next Police confirmed that the then-captain of Sri Lanka and the present president of Marylebone Cricket Club in London, Kumar Sangakkara will be the next player to be questioned from the squad. Sangakkara has been asked to report to the SIU on Thursday. ALSO READ: Aravinda de Silva questioned for 6 hours over 2011 WC final match-fixing allegations; Kumar Sangakkara, Upul Tharanga summoned Sangakkara had earlier said that proper evidence should be put forward to the ICC after the then-sports minister of Sri Lanka Mahindananda Aluthgamage claimed that Sri Lanka “sold” the 2011 World Cup final. "I feel I can talk about it now," Mahindananda Aluthgamage told a local TV network last month. "I am not connecting players, but some sections were involved." Sri Lanka posted 274/6 off 50 overs before India chased down the target courtesy Gautam Gambhir’s 97 and MS Dhoni’s unbeaten 91. Sri Lanka were criticized for their poor bowling and fielding as India won the match by six wickets. The toss in the summit class was also controversial as it took place twice after match referee Jeff Crowe apparently didn’t hear the call by Sangakkara and asked Dhoni to flip the coin again. Sri Lanka’s decision to bat first was also slammed by many. Match-fixing was made a criminal offence in November. Offenders face fines of up to 100 million rupees ($555,000) and up to 10 years' jail.

WC 2011 match-fixing investigation: Upul Tharanga grilled by SIU, Kumar Sangakkara to appear next

Former Sri Lanka chief selector Aravinda de Silva was the first interviewed by the sports-related anti-corruption unit, its Superintendent Jagath Fonseka said. A former Lankan captain, de Silva was grilled for six hours at the start of a criminal investigation into match-fixing. Sri Lankan captain in 2011 World Cup, Kumar Sangakkara has also been summoned by the Sports Ministry's Special Investigations Unit on Thursday.

Another player from the 2011 Sri Lankan squad, Upul Tharanga has also been summoned and his statement would be recorded on Wednesday.

"Today we started the investigation into (2011 World Cup) match-fixing allegations," Fonseka told reporters outside his unit's office where the chief selector was questioned.

"Based on the statement given by Aravinda de Silva today, we have decided to summon a player from the 2011 squad, Upul Tharanga, tomorrow to record his statement."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/was-2011-world-cup-final-fixed-kumar-sangakkara-mahela-jayawardene-respond-to-shocking-claims-by-former-sri-lanka-sports-minister-306812" hreflang="en">Was 2011 World Cup final fixed? Kumar Sangakkara, Mahela Jayawardene respond to shocking claims by former Sri Lanka sports minister</a>

Fonseka further said that the anti-corruption unit is obtaining intelligence reports as well as inputs from international sources to continue their investigation into one of cricket biggest of matches.&nbsp;

De Silva, who has been in support of an investigation, didn’t comment on the matter as he spent over six overs with at least three detectives questioning the former Lankan skipper and the chief selector of Sri Lankan team in 2011.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Tharanga, who is set to be questioned on Wednesday, was Sri Lanka’s openers in the final wherein he scored just two runs while facing 20 deliveries.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2011-final-was-fixed-former-sri-lanka-sports-minister-comes-up-with-shocking-claim-306797">'World Cup 2011 final was fixed': Former Sri Lanka Sports Minister comes up with shocking claim</a>

The investigation started after former <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2011-final-was-fixed-former-sri-lanka-sports-minister-comes-up-with-shocking-claim-306797">Sri Lanka sports minister Mahindanda Aluthgamage claimed that Sri Lanka had “sold” the match</a>. However, he didn’t name anyone.&nbsp;

"I feel I can talk about it now. I am not connecting players, but some sections were involved," Aluthgamage said.

Former Sri Lanka skipper Arjuna Ranatunga has also doubted the match and had called for an investigation earlier.&nbsp;

Earlier, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/was-2011-world-cup-final-fixed-kumar-sangakkara-mahela-jayawardene-respond-to-shocking-claims-by-former-sri-lanka-sports-minister-306812">Kumar Sangakkara, captain of Sri Lanka in the finals, and Mahela Jayawardene had said that Aluthgamage should support his allegations with evidence and share it with the International Cricket Council</a>.

Earlier this month, the Sri Lanka cricket board said the ICC was investigating three unnamed ex-players over corruption claims.

In Sri Lanka, match-fixing was made a criminal offence in November with offenders facing fines up to 100 million rupees ($555,000) and up to 10 years' jail.

Former Sri Lanka chief selector Aravinda de Silva was the first interviewed by the sports-related anti-corruption unit, its Superintendent Jagath Fonseka said. A former Lankan captain, de Silva was grilled for six hours at the start of a criminal investigation into match-fixing.

Former Sri Lanka chief selector Aravinda de Silva was the first interviewed by the sports-related anti-corruption unit, its Superintendent Jagath Fonseka said. A former Lankan captain, de Silva was grilled for six hours at the start of a criminal investigation into match-fixing. Sri Lankan captain in 2011 World Cup, Kumar Sangakkara has also been summoned by the Sports Ministry's Special Investigations Unit on Thursday. Another player from the 2011 Sri Lankan squad, Upul Tharanga has also been summoned and his statement would be recorded on Wednesday. "Today we started the investigation into (2011 World Cup) match-fixing allegations," Fonseka told reporters outside his unit's office where the chief selector was questioned. "Based on the statement given by Aravinda de Silva today, we have decided to summon a player from the 2011 squad, Upul Tharanga, tomorrow to record his statement." ALSO READ: Was 2011 World Cup final fixed? Kumar Sangakkara, Mahela Jayawardene respond to shocking claims by former Sri Lanka sports minister Fonseka further said that the anti-corruption unit is obtaining intelligence reports as well as inputs from international sources to continue their investigation into one of cricket biggest of matches. De Silva, who has been in support of an investigation, didn’t comment on the matter as he spent over six overs with at least three detectives questioning the former Lankan skipper and the chief selector of Sri Lankan team in 2011. Meanwhile, Tharanga, who is set to be questioned on Wednesday, was Sri Lanka’s openers in the final wherein he scored just two runs while facing 20 deliveries. ALSO READ: 'World Cup 2011 final was fixed': Former Sri Lanka Sports Minister comes up with shocking claim The investigation started after former Sri Lanka sports minister Mahindanda Aluthgamage claimed that Sri Lanka had “sold” the match. However, he didn’t name anyone. "I feel I can talk about it now. I am not connecting players, but some sections were involved," Aluthgamage said. Former Sri Lanka skipper Arjuna Ranatunga has also doubted the match and had called for an investigation earlier. Earlier, Kumar Sangakkara, captain of Sri Lanka in the finals, and Mahela Jayawardene had said that Aluthgamage should support his allegations with evidence and share it with the International Cricket Council. Earlier this month, the Sri Lanka cricket board said the ICC was investigating three unnamed ex-players over corruption claims. In Sri Lanka, match-fixing was made a criminal offence in November with offenders facing fines up to 100 million rupees ($555,000) and up to 10 years' jail.

Aravinda de Silva questioned for 6 hours over 2011 WC final match-fixing allegations; Kumar Sangakkara, Upul Tharanga summoned

Former South African captain AB de Villiers has picked his all-time <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL)</a> XI as the swashbuckling batsman picked some surprising names to comprise a deadly team on the paper. De Villiers is regarded as one of the finest players to have taken the cricket field and his camaraderie with Virat Kohli is known to all.

De Villiers picked Rohit Sharma and Virender Sehwag as the opening batsmen of his all-time <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">IPL</a> XI before naming Kohli at three. He didn’t have a choice but to pick himself at four with a surprise pick in Ben Stokes at number five. Chennai Super Kings stalwart and former Indian skipper MS Dhoni takes up the captain’s armband and the wicket-keeping gloves in de Villiers’ team as the former Proteas skipper opened up on Cricbuzz.&nbsp;

For the all-rounder’s spot, de Villiers went with Ravindra Jadeja before picking Rashid Khan as the spinner who can tonk a few as well. Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Kagiso Rabada and Jasprit Bumrah formed de Villiers’ pace attack in his all-time <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">IPL</a> XI.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/daren-sammy-slams-fair-lovely-says-it-hints-at-colourism-309750" hreflang="en">Daren Sammy slams Fair &amp; Lovely, says it hints at colourism</a>

De Villiers went on to shower high praise on his RCB skipper Virat Kohli as he said that despite being a different kind of batsmen, they two form a deadly pair. However, the South African batsman admitted that Kohli is a more reliable option.

“We take on different bowlers. I personally like to attack a little earlier, not to show weakness early on. I am earlier to the trigger. I want the bowlers to feel early on that it will be trouble if I’m allowed to bat for 5 overs,” de Villiers said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/senior-indian-cricketer-under-scanner-after-flouting-bccis-family-clause-during-world-cup-2019-report-309700" hreflang="en">Senior Indian cricketer under scanner after flouting BCCI's 'family clause' during World Cup 2019: Report</a>

“Virat is a more reliable batsman. He’s the one you want to bat for 15 overs. I am better in a way I could change the game quicker, have an injection that could swing the game. So together we are a nice combo,” he added.

<h2>AB de Villiers’ all-time IPL XI:</h2>

Virender Sehwag, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, Ben Stokes, MS Dhoni (c) (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Rashid Khan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Kagiso Rabada, Jasprit Bumrah 
&nbsp;

Former South African captain AB de Villiers has picked his all-time Indian Premier League (IPL) XI as the swashbuckling batsman picked some surprising names to comprise a deadly team on the paper.

Former South African captain AB de Villiers has picked his all-time Indian Premier League (IPL) XI as the swashbuckling batsman picked some surprising names to comprise a deadly team on the paper. De Villiers is regarded as one of the finest players to have taken the cricket field and his camaraderie with Virat Kohli is known to all. De Villiers picked Rohit Sharma and Virender Sehwag as the opening batsmen of his all-time IPL XI before naming Kohli at three. He didn’t have a choice but to pick himself at four with a surprise pick in Ben Stokes at number five. Chennai Super Kings stalwart and former Indian skipper MS Dhoni takes up the captain’s armband and the wicket-keeping gloves in de Villiers’ team as the former Proteas skipper opened up on Cricbuzz. For the all-rounder’s spot, de Villiers went with Ravindra Jadeja before picking Rashid Khan as the spinner who can tonk a few as well. Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Kagiso Rabada and Jasprit Bumrah formed de Villiers’ pace attack in his all-time IPL XI. ALSO READ: Daren Sammy slams Fair & Lovely, says it hints at colourism De Villiers went on to shower high praise on his RCB skipper Virat Kohli as he said that despite being a different kind of batsmen, they two form a deadly pair. However, the South African batsman admitted that Kohli is a more reliable option. “We take on different bowlers. I personally like to attack a little earlier, not to show weakness early on. I am earlier to the trigger. I want the bowlers to feel early on that it will be trouble if I’m allowed to bat for 5 overs,” de Villiers said. ALSO READ: Senior Indian cricketer under scanner after flouting BCCI's 'family clause' during World Cup 2019: Report “Virat is a more reliable batsman. He’s the one you want to bat for 15 overs. I am better in a way I could change the game quicker, have an injection that could swing the game. So together we are a nice combo,” he added. AB de Villiers’ all-time IPL XI: Virender Sehwag, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, Ben Stokes, MS Dhoni (c) (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Rashid Khan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Kagiso Rabada, Jasprit Bumrah

MS Dhoni named captain as AB de Villiers picks his all-time IPL XI

Television commentators praise players with lighter skin as more intelligent and hardworking than those with darker skin, showed a study&nbsp;<a href="https://runrepeat.com/racial-bias-study-soccer">here</a>&nbsp;by Danish firm RunRepeat in association with the Professional Footballers' Association (PFA).

The study analysed 2,073 statements from English-speaking commentators in 80 games from the 2019-20 season across Italy’s Serie A, France’s Ligue 1, Spain’s La Liga and England’s Premier League. A total of 643 players of various races and skin tones were discussed.

Analysis revealed that players with darker skin tones were “significantly more likely” to be reduced to their physical characteristics or athletic abilities like pace and power.

Around 62% of praise was aimed at players with lighter skin while 63.33% of criticism was aimed at those with darker skin.

“To address the real impact of structural racism, we have to acknowledge and address racial bias. This study shows an evident bias in how we describe the attributes of footballers based on their skin colour,” PFA Equalities Executive Jason Lee said.

“Commentators help shape the perception we hold of each player, deepening any racial bias already held by the viewer. It’s important to consider how far-reaching those perceptions can be and how they impact footballers even once they finish their playing career.

“If a player has aspirations of becoming a coach/manager, is an unfair advantage given to players that commentators regularly refer to as intelligent and industrious, when those views appear to be a result of racial bias?”

The study comes amid protests around the world against racial injustice following the death of George Floyd, a Black man who died in police custody in the U.S. city of Minneapolis on May 25.

Television commentators praise players with lighter skin as more intelligent and hardworking than those with darker skin, showed a study here by Danish firm RunRepeat in association with the Professional Footballers' Association (PFA).

Television commentators praise players with lighter skin as more intelligent and hardworking than those with darker skin, showed a study here by Danish firm RunRepeat in association with the Professional Footballers' Association (PFA). The study analysed 2,073 statements from English-speaking commentators in 80 games from the 2019-20 season across Italy’s Serie A, France’s Ligue 1, Spain’s La Liga and England’s Premier League. A total of 643 players of various races and skin tones were discussed. Analysis revealed that players with darker skin tones were “significantly more likely” to be reduced to their physical characteristics or athletic abilities like pace and power. Around 62% of praise was aimed at players with lighter skin while 63.33% of criticism was aimed at those with darker skin. “To address the real impact of structural racism, we have to acknowledge and address racial bias. This study shows an evident bias in how we describe the attributes of footballers based on their skin colour,” PFA Equalities Executive Jason Lee said. “Commentators help shape the perception we hold of each player, deepening any racial bias already held by the viewer. It’s important to consider how far-reaching those perceptions can be and how they impact footballers even once they finish their playing career. “If a player has aspirations of becoming a coach/manager, is an unfair advantage given to players that commentators regularly refer to as intelligent and industrious, when those views appear to be a result of racial bias?” The study comes amid protests around the world against racial injustice following the death of George Floyd, a Black man who died in police custody in the U.S. city of Minneapolis on May 25.

English TV commentary across leagues shows racial bias, study claims

Valencia have sacked coach Albert Celades and appointed long-standing club servant Voro until the end of the season, the La Liga club said in a statement on Monday.

Sporting director Cesar Sanchez then announced his resignation shortly after Celades was dismissed, deepening the institutional crisis at one of Spain’s most prestigious clubs.

According to Spanish media reports, Sanchez decided to resign after telling the squad earlier on Monday that Celades would remain in charge for Wednesday’s game against Athletic Bilbao, only for him to be sacked hours later.

Celades is the sixth manager Valencia have sacked since the club was bought by Singaporean billionaire Peter Lim in 2014 while Sanchez, who was appointed in January, is the sixth sporting director to have left the role in the same period.

Valencia appointed Celades last September after taking the surprising decision to dispense with Marcelino, who had led the club to successive top-four finishes and ended an 11-year wait for a major trophy by guiding them to win the Copa del Rey.

Celades had never previously been a first team coach at club level, building his reputation as Spain’s under-21 coach and as an assistant to Julen Lopetegui with the Spain side and Real Madrid.

He made a difficult start in losing his first game in charge 5-2 to Barcelona but improved his reputation by taking the team into the last 16 of the Champions League.

But they were comprehensively beaten 8-4 on aggregate by Atalanta and pressure mounted on Celades as the team’s domestic form continued to decline.

Valencia have sacked coach Albert Celades and appointed long-standing club servant Voro until the end of the season, the La Liga club said in a statement on Monday.

Valencia have sacked coach Albert Celades and appointed long-standing club servant Voro until the end of the season, the La Liga club said in a statement on Monday. Sporting director Cesar Sanchez then announced his resignation shortly after Celades was dismissed, deepening the institutional crisis at one of Spain’s most prestigious clubs. According to Spanish media reports, Sanchez decided to resign after telling the squad earlier on Monday that Celades would remain in charge for Wednesday’s game against Athletic Bilbao, only for him to be sacked hours later. Celades is the sixth manager Valencia have sacked since the club was bought by Singaporean billionaire Peter Lim in 2014 while Sanchez, who was appointed in January, is the sixth sporting director to have left the role in the same period. Valencia appointed Celades last September after taking the surprising decision to dispense with Marcelino, who had led the club to successive top-four finishes and ended an 11-year wait for a major trophy by guiding them to win the Copa del Rey. Celades had never previously been a first team coach at club level, building his reputation as Spain’s under-21 coach and as an assistant to Julen Lopetegui with the Spain side and Real Madrid. He made a difficult start in losing his first game in charge 5-2 to Barcelona but improved his reputation by taking the team into the last 16 of the Champions League. But they were comprehensively beaten 8-4 on aggregate by Atalanta and pressure mounted on Celades as the team’s domestic form continued to decline.

Chaos reigns at Valencia as coach is sacked, sporting director quits

Burnley captain Ben Mee marked his 300th appearance for the club by scoring in a 1-0 win at Crystal Palace on Monday as the Clarets climbed to eighth in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> table.

Victory saw Sean Dyche's visitors go level on points with Tottenham Hotspur and keep alive their hopes of European football next season.

A week on from saying how "ashamed" he was at a plane carrying the message 'White lives Matter Burnley' over the Etihad Stadium during a 5-0 thrashing by Manchester City, the defender won plaudits for his football at Selhurst Park as the Clarets built on a 1-0 win over Watford.

Mee ended a three-year wait for a goal in the 62nd minute with a diving header from Ashley Westwood's free-kick after getting in front of Gary Cahill.

Palace goalkeeper Vicente Guaita got a hand to the ball but not a strong one and could only divert it in off a post for the only goal of the game.

Mee, simply saying it was "nice" to score,&nbsp;told Amazon Prime of the reaction to his post-match comments following the City defeat.

"I've been humbled by the response to the interview," he said. "It's nice to hear.&nbsp;

"The club got quite a few emails too which I read a few of. It wasn't a great night for us but we have responded really well to get two wins on the bounce."&nbsp;

Defeat dropped Palace down to 11th place but Roy Hodgson's men are still a comfortable 15 points clear of the relegation zone with six games to play despite a second successive defeat.

Former England boss Hodgson refused to blame his keeper for the loss, saying: "We did everything we could to find a way through but it didn't work out for us."

Burnley's victory was all the more impressive as they were without three first-choice forwards in Jay Rodriguez, Chris Wood and Ashley Barnes.

"We've had to change things with the stretched squad we have and we did very well," Burnley manager Dyche told the BBC.

Burnley could have opened the scoring in the 19th minute only for Dwight McNeil to shoot over the top from inside the area.

Palace created chances but Cahill and James McArthur were both off target.

In the second half, the video assistant referee was called in as Palace's Jordan Ayew avoided a red card for catching Josh Brownhill with his arm.

Then came the key moment, defender Mee stooping low for his first goal since January 2017.&nbsp;

Burnley captain Ben Mee marked his 300th appearance for the club by scoring in a 1-0 win at Crystal Palace on Monday as the Clarets climbed to eighth in the Premier League table.

Burnley captain Ben Mee marked his 300th appearance for the club by scoring in a 1-0 win at Crystal Palace on Monday as the Clarets climbed to eighth in the Premier League table. Victory saw Sean Dyche's visitors go level on points with Tottenham Hotspur and keep alive their hopes of European football next season. A week on from saying how "ashamed" he was at a plane carrying the message 'White lives Matter Burnley' over the Etihad Stadium during a 5-0 thrashing by Manchester City, the defender won plaudits for his football at Selhurst Park as the Clarets built on a 1-0 win over Watford. Mee ended a three-year wait for a goal in the 62nd minute with a diving header from Ashley Westwood's free-kick after getting in front of Gary Cahill. Palace goalkeeper Vicente Guaita got a hand to the ball but not a strong one and could only divert it in off a post for the only goal of the game. Mee, simply saying it was "nice" to score, told Amazon Prime of the reaction to his post-match comments following the City defeat. "I've been humbled by the response to the interview," he said. "It's nice to hear. "The club got quite a few emails too which I read a few of. It wasn't a great night for us but we have responded really well to get two wins on the bounce." Defeat dropped Palace down to 11th place but Roy Hodgson's men are still a comfortable 15 points clear of the relegation zone with six games to play despite a second successive defeat. Former England boss Hodgson refused to blame his keeper for the loss, saying: "We did everything we could to find a way through but it didn't work out for us." Burnley's victory was all the more impressive as they were without three first-choice forwards in Jay Rodriguez, Chris Wood and Ashley Barnes. "We've had to change things with the stretched squad we have and we did very well," Burnley manager Dyche told the BBC. Burnley could have opened the scoring in the 19th minute only for Dwight McNeil to shoot over the top from inside the area. Palace created chances but Cahill and James McArthur were both off target. In the second half, the video assistant referee was called in as Palace's Jordan Ayew avoided a red card for catching Josh Brownhill with his arm. Then came the key moment, defender Mee stooping low for his first goal since January 2017.

Mee winner at Palace fires Burnley into eighth

Frank Lampard said Tuesday that Chelsea had not made a bid for free agent Angel Gomes and was tight-lipped over a link with West Ham midfielder Declan Rice.

Manchester United have confirmed London-born Gomes, 19, is leaving Old Trafford, with the highly rated attacking midfielder's services now in high demand.

Chelsea have been linked with a swoop for the England Under-20s star, but Blues boss Lampard rejected any interest out of hand.

Asked if Chelsea had made a bid for Gomes, Lampard told a press conference: "Yes, I can elaborate to the point that it's never been mentioned at my end, so that's it."

And when asked if there is any interest, Lampard added: "No."

Fourth-placed Chelsea will head to West Ham for Wednesday's Premier League clash looking for a sixth straight win in all competitions, and a fourth since the resumption of football after the coronavirus lockdown.

The Blues continue to be linked with a summer move for West Ham's 21-year-old England and ex-Chelsea academy star Rice.

But Stamford Bridge manager Lampard kept his cards close to his chest at his pre-match press conference.

"Declan Rice is a good player, you're right, and I've known Declan Rice for a long time, as he was in the Chelsea academy, but there's no talk," said Lampard.

"I keep saying, about every player we'll be asked about. Until these games and this season is finished, there's nothing to say."

Lampard has deployed France World Cup-winner N'Golo Kante in a more defensive position since the restart but said he remained hugely important to the side.

"I think with N'Golo I have a way I want him to work our midfield, where we have some fluidity to us, which allows N'Golo to bring his best attributes to the game," he said.

"N'Golo, since he has been here, has shown his attributes and qualities mean that he can play in pretty much any role in midfield that you want him to," he added.

"He is an incredible player, I keep saying it and I mean it -- he is huge for this club. He has been huge and he will be for a long time and I am happy with him."

Frank Lampard said Tuesday that Chelsea had not made a bid for free agent Angel Gomes and was tight-lipped over a link with West Ham midfielder Declan Rice. Manchester United have confirmed London-born Gomes, 19, is leaving Old Trafford, with the highly rated attacking midfielder's services now in high demand.

Frank Lampard said Tuesday that Chelsea had not made a bid for free agent Angel Gomes and was tight-lipped over a link with West Ham midfielder Declan Rice. Manchester United have confirmed London-born Gomes, 19, is leaving Old Trafford, with the highly rated attacking midfielder's services now in high demand. Chelsea have been linked with a swoop for the England Under-20s star, but Blues boss Lampard rejected any interest out of hand. Asked if Chelsea had made a bid for Gomes, Lampard told a press conference: "Yes, I can elaborate to the point that it's never been mentioned at my end, so that's it." And when asked if there is any interest, Lampard added: "No." Fourth-placed Chelsea will head to West Ham for Wednesday's Premier League clash looking for a sixth straight win in all competitions, and a fourth since the resumption of football after the coronavirus lockdown. The Blues continue to be linked with a summer move for West Ham's 21-year-old England and ex-Chelsea academy star Rice. But Stamford Bridge manager Lampard kept his cards close to his chest at his pre-match press conference. "Declan Rice is a good player, you're right, and I've known Declan Rice for a long time, as he was in the Chelsea academy, but there's no talk," said Lampard. "I keep saying, about every player we'll be asked about. Until these games and this season is finished, there's nothing to say." Lampard has deployed France World Cup-winner N'Golo Kante in a more defensive position since the restart but said he remained hugely important to the side. "I think with N'Golo I have a way I want him to work our midfield, where we have some fluidity to us, which allows N'Golo to bring his best attributes to the game," he said. "N'Golo, since he has been here, has shown his attributes and qualities mean that he can play in pretty much any role in midfield that you want him to," he added. "He is an incredible player, I keep saying it and I mean it -- he is huge for this club. He has been huge and he will be for a long time and I am happy with him."

Lampard rules out Chelsea move for free agent Angel Gomes

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