The Boxing Federation of India on Monday nominated world silver-medallist Amit Panghal and the seasoned Vikas Krishan for the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna award, picking only Olympic-bound names as its nominees for the annual honours.

Panghal (52kg), also an Asian Games champion, has not won any national sports award. He is being nominated for the Arjuna award for the past three years but has not been considered by the selection committee because of a 2012 "inadvertent" dope offence.

Commonwealth and Asian Games gold-medallist Krishan (69kg) won the Arjuna award in 2012.

The BFI has nominated world bronze-winning trio of Lovlina Borgohain (69kg) and Simranjit Kaur (64kg) and Manish Kaushik (63kg) for the Arjuna awards.

In its nominations for the Dronacharya awards, the BFI has finalised the names of national women's coach Mohammed Ali Qamar and assistant coach Chhote Lal Yadav.

Yadav is also closely associated with six-time world champion M C Mary Kom.

The last day for filing nominations is Wednesday.

The Boxing Federation of India on Monday nominated world silver-medallist Amit Panghal and the seasoned Vikas Krishan for the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna award, picking only Olympic-bound names as its nominees for the annual honours.

The Boxing Federation of India on Monday nominated world silver-medallist Amit Panghal and the seasoned Vikas Krishan for the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna award, picking only Olympic-bound names as its nominees for the annual honours. Panghal (52kg), also an Asian Games champion, has not won any national sports award. He is being nominated for the Arjuna award for the past three years but has not been considered by the selection committee because of a 2012 "inadvertent" dope offence. Commonwealth and Asian Games gold-medallist Krishan (69kg) won the Arjuna award in 2012. The BFI has nominated world bronze-winning trio of Lovlina Borgohain (69kg) and Simranjit Kaur (64kg) and Manish Kaushik (63kg) for the Arjuna awards. In its nominations for the Dronacharya awards, the BFI has finalised the names of national women's coach Mohammed Ali Qamar and assistant coach Chhote Lal Yadav. Yadav is also closely associated with six-time world champion M C Mary Kom. The last day for filing nominations is Wednesday.

BFI nominates Amit Panghal, Vikas Krishan for Khel Ratna

La Liga resumes on June 11 after a three-month absence due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Real Madrid and Barcelona have been unable to pull away from each other at the top of the table while Atletico Madrid are involved in what looks like a four-way fight for Champions League qualification.

AFP Sport takes a look at some key issues ahead of the run-in.

<h2>Turbulent title race</h2>

When Real Madrid beat Barcelona 2-0 at the Santiago Bernabeu on March 1, it seemed they had halted a dip in form and seized control of the title race.&nbsp;

But a week later, they handed the initiative back as Barca regained first place by beating Real Sociedad and Madrid lost away at Real Betis.&nbsp;

A three-month break means a fresh start but Barcelona's two-point lead reflects badly on their challengers, given Barca's own problems off the pitch, including the switch to Quique Setien as coach in January.&nbsp;

Both sides' imperfections mean there will be more slip-ups to come but if this Barca make it five league titles in six years, Madrid will only have themselves to blame.

<h2>Unfamiliar homes</h2>

Real Madrid have been given permission by La Liga to play their remaining home games at the Alfredo di Stefano Stadium at their training ground to allow planned construction work to go ahead at the Santiago Bernabeu this summer.&nbsp;

With games being held behind closed doors there would have been little advantage to playing at their usual home and the players might even be better off avoiding an empty 81,000-seater stadium that they are used to being almost full.&nbsp;

<h2>Unexpected returns</h2>

Neither Eden Hazard nor Luis Suarez expected to play much, or perhaps any, part in the run-in after Hazard underwent surgery on a broken foot in March and Suarez had an operation on his right knee in January.&nbsp;

The break has allowed both players to recover and the question now is whether either can find peak form and fitness in time to make an impact in the remaining 11 games.&nbsp;

Suarez's return could be particularly helpful for Barcelona but Setien has said the Uruguayan, who has often taken time to regain sharpness, is not yet ready.&nbsp;

Real Madrid's Hazard, plagued by injuries in recent months, has had a nightmare first year in Spain but has an unexpected chance to turn things around.&nbsp;

<h2>Fight for Atletico</h2>

Atletico Madrid's momentous win over Liverpool in the Champions League offered Diego Simeone some relief after what has been a disappointing season in La Liga.&nbsp;

His team sit sixth in the table, having long fallen out of the reckoning for the title and facing a fight even to make the top four.&nbsp;

Ahead of them between fifth and third are Getafe, Real Sociedad and Sevilla, and with only two points between the four, Atletico could &nbsp;still scrape in.&nbsp;

But the resilient Getafe and free-flowing Real will both be eager to finish off brilliant campaigns while Sevilla appeared to be hitting their stride before games were suspended.&nbsp;

Atletico cannot afford to be complacent.&nbsp;

<h2>Pressure at the bottom</h2>

At the other end of the table, Espanyol look doomed, sitting in last place, six points adrift of safety. Leganes, who still have to play away at Barcelona before hosting Real Madrid on the final day, are only three points better off.&nbsp;

One point then separates Mallorca, Celta Vigo and Eibar, whose players have expressed concerns about the safety of football returning too quickly. Real Valladolid in 15th have a four-point cushion over the bottom three but two wins in their last 10 games suggests they could easily be pulled in too.

The economic hit from the coronavirus pandemic means the stakes are even higher for these clubs, as they battle to avoid the considerable financial blow of relegation. For all of them, the pressure is on.

La Liga resumes on June 11 after a three-month absence due to the coronavirus pandemic. Real Madrid and Barcelona have been unable to pull away from each other at the top of the table while Atletico Madrid are involved in what looks like a four-way fight for Champions League qualification.

La Liga resumes on June 11 after a three-month absence due to the coronavirus pandemic. Real Madrid and Barcelona have been unable to pull away from each other at the top of the table while Atletico Madrid are involved in what looks like a four-way fight for Champions League qualification. AFP Sport takes a look at some key issues ahead of the run-in. Turbulent title race When Real Madrid beat Barcelona 2-0 at the Santiago Bernabeu on March 1, it seemed they had halted a dip in form and seized control of the title race. But a week later, they handed the initiative back as Barca regained first place by beating Real Sociedad and Madrid lost away at Real Betis. A three-month break means a fresh start but Barcelona's two-point lead reflects badly on their challengers, given Barca's own problems off the pitch, including the switch to Quique Setien as coach in January. Both sides' imperfections mean there will be more slip-ups to come but if this Barca make it five league titles in six years, Madrid will only have themselves to blame. Unfamiliar homes Real Madrid have been given permission by La Liga to play their remaining home games at the Alfredo di Stefano Stadium at their training ground to allow planned construction work to go ahead at the Santiago Bernabeu this summer. With games being held behind closed doors there would have been little advantage to playing at their usual home and the players might even be better off avoiding an empty 81,000-seater stadium that they are used to being almost full. Unexpected returns Neither Eden Hazard nor Luis Suarez expected to play much, or perhaps any, part in the run-in after Hazard underwent surgery on a broken foot in March and Suarez had an operation on his right knee in January. The break has allowed both players to recover and the question now is whether either can find peak form and fitness in time to make an impact in the remaining 11 games. Suarez's return could be particularly helpful for Barcelona but Setien has said the Uruguayan, who has often taken time to regain sharpness, is not yet ready. Real Madrid's Hazard, plagued by injuries in recent months, has had a nightmare first year in Spain but has an unexpected chance to turn things around. Fight for Atletico Atletico Madrid's momentous win over Liverpool in the Champions League offered Diego Simeone some relief after what has been a disappointing season in La Liga. His team sit sixth in the table, having long fallen out of the reckoning for the title and facing a fight even to make the top four. Ahead of them between fifth and third are Getafe, Real Sociedad and Sevilla, and with only two points between the four, Atletico could still scrape in. But the resilient Getafe and free-flowing Real will both be eager to finish off brilliant campaigns while Sevilla appeared to be hitting their stride before games were suspended. Atletico cannot afford to be complacent. Pressure at the bottom At the other end of the table, Espanyol look doomed, sitting in last place, six points adrift of safety. Leganes, who still have to play away at Barcelona before hosting Real Madrid on the final day, are only three points better off. One point then separates Mallorca, Celta Vigo and Eibar, whose players have expressed concerns about the safety of football returning too quickly. Real Valladolid in 15th have a four-point cushion over the bottom three but two wins in their last 10 games suggests they could easily be pulled in too. The economic hit from the coronavirus pandemic means the stakes are even higher for these clubs, as they battle to avoid the considerable financial blow of relegation. For all of them, the pressure is on.

The return of La Liga: What's at stake?

NBA legend Michael Jordan decried "ingrained racism" in the United States as the sports world's reaction to the death of unarmed black man George Floyd leapt leagues and continents.

"I am deeply saddened, truly pained and plain angry," Jordan said Sunday, as protests over Floyd's death on May 25 spawned violence and looting across the US. "I stand with those who are calling out the ingrained racism and violence toward people of color in our country.

"We have had enough," added Jordan, who was famously reluctant to comment on social issues during his playing career.

Floyd died after a white policeman in Minneapolis held his knee on the handcuffed man's neck for several minutes.

"We need to continue peaceful expressions against injustice and demand accountability," Jordan said.

Jordan joined a chorus of voices from the NBA, NFL and other US sports demanding change for black Americans, but the demands went far beyond America.

World champion driver Lewis Hamilton lashed out at "white-dominated" Formula One for failing to speak out against racism.

Hamilton warned "I know who you are and I see you" as the Briton accused his fellow drivers of "staying silent in the midst of injustice" following Floyd's death.

French footballer Marcus Thuram and England international Jadon Sancho both mounted individual protests calling for justice for Floyd after scoring in Germany's Bundesliga on Sunday.

Thuram took a knee after his goal for Borussia Moenchengladbach in a match against Union Berlin, while Sancho marked one of his three goals for Borussia Dortmund against Paderborn by lifting his jersey to reveal a T-shirt bearing the words "Justice for George Floyd".

Thuram's gesture echoed the protest against US racism spearheaded by former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick, whose decision to kneel during the national anthem at games in 2016 sparked outrage.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver sent an internal memo to the league's employees saying it shares "the outrage" at the death of Floyd -- which comes in the wake of the police killing in Kentucky of emergency health worker Breonna Taylor in her home, and the fatal shooting of unarmed black jogger Ahmaud Arbery.

"We are being reminded that there are wounds in our country that have never healed," Silver said in the memo published by Yahoo.

"Racism, police brutality and racial injustice remain part of everyday life in America and cannot be ignored."

With US pro sports on hold during the coronavirus pandemic, American athletes had no chance to demonstrate on the field of play.

Boston Celtics forward Jaylen Brown drove 15 hours to lead a peaceful protest march in Atlanta, Georgia.

"First and foremost, I'm a black man and I'm a member of this community," the Georgia native said.

<h2>- 'Too many tragedies' -</h2>

Los Angeles Clippers coach Doc Rivers, himself the son of a policeman, said that as violence escalated it was imperative to keep Floyd's death at the forefront.

"The response we are seeing across the nation, to the murder of George Floyd, is decades in the making," Rivers said in a statement. "Too often, people rush to judge the response, instead of the actions that prompted it.

"We have allowed too many tragedies to pass in vain. This isn't an African-American issue. This is a human issue," Rivers said.

US tennis great Serena Williams posted an Instagram video featuring a young African-American girl overcome by emotion as she addressed a public meeting, finally able to force out the words: "We are black people, and we shouldn't have to feel like this."

Teenage tennis phenomenon Coco Gauff had a simple question on her Instagram post: "Am I next?"

And two-time Grand Slam winner Naomi Osaka, whose mother is Japanese and father Haitian, reminded her social media followers: "Just because it isn't happening to you doesn't mean it isn't happening at all."

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said the violent protests "reflect the pain, anger&nbsp;and&nbsp;frustration that so many&nbsp;of us&nbsp;feel".

With Kaepernick still unable to find a job in the NFL, not everyone was convinced by Goodell or by San Francisco 49ers chief executive Jed York, who pledged $1 million to combat systemic racial discrimination.

Former 49er Eric Reid, who knelt alongside Kaepernick, tweeted: "Nobody wants your money Jed. We want justice."

NBA legend Michael Jordan decried "ingrained racism" in the United States as the sports world's reaction to the death of unarmed black man George Floyd leapt leagues and continents.

NBA legend Michael Jordan decried "ingrained racism" in the United States as the sports world's reaction to the death of unarmed black man George Floyd leapt leagues and continents. "I am deeply saddened, truly pained and plain angry," Jordan said Sunday, as protests over Floyd's death on May 25 spawned violence and looting across the US. "I stand with those who are calling out the ingrained racism and violence toward people of color in our country. "We have had enough," added Jordan, who was famously reluctant to comment on social issues during his playing career. Floyd died after a white policeman in Minneapolis held his knee on the handcuffed man's neck for several minutes. "We need to continue peaceful expressions against injustice and demand accountability," Jordan said. Jordan joined a chorus of voices from the NBA, NFL and other US sports demanding change for black Americans, but the demands went far beyond America. World champion driver Lewis Hamilton lashed out at "white-dominated" Formula One for failing to speak out against racism. Hamilton warned "I know who you are and I see you" as the Briton accused his fellow drivers of "staying silent in the midst of injustice" following Floyd's death. French footballer Marcus Thuram and England international Jadon Sancho both mounted individual protests calling for justice for Floyd after scoring in Germany's Bundesliga on Sunday. Thuram took a knee after his goal for Borussia Moenchengladbach in a match against Union Berlin, while Sancho marked one of his three goals for Borussia Dortmund against Paderborn by lifting his jersey to reveal a T-shirt bearing the words "Justice for George Floyd". Thuram's gesture echoed the protest against US racism spearheaded by former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick, whose decision to kneel during the national anthem at games in 2016 sparked outrage. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver sent an internal memo to the league's employees saying it shares "the outrage" at the death of Floyd -- which comes in the wake of the police killing in Kentucky of emergency health worker Breonna Taylor in her home, and the fatal shooting of unarmed black jogger Ahmaud Arbery. "We are being reminded that there are wounds in our country that have never healed," Silver said in the memo published by Yahoo. "Racism, police brutality and racial injustice remain part of everyday life in America and cannot be ignored." With US pro sports on hold during the coronavirus pandemic, American athletes had no chance to demonstrate on the field of play. Boston Celtics forward Jaylen Brown drove 15 hours to lead a peaceful protest march in Atlanta, Georgia. "First and foremost, I'm a black man and I'm a member of this community," the Georgia native said. - 'Too many tragedies' - Los Angeles Clippers coach Doc Rivers, himself the son of a policeman, said that as violence escalated it was imperative to keep Floyd's death at the forefront. "The response we are seeing across the nation, to the murder of George Floyd, is decades in the making," Rivers said in a statement. "Too often, people rush to judge the response, instead of the actions that prompted it. "We have allowed too many tragedies to pass in vain. This isn't an African-American issue. This is a human issue," Rivers said. US tennis great Serena Williams posted an Instagram video featuring a young African-American girl overcome by emotion as she addressed a public meeting, finally able to force out the words: "We are black people, and we shouldn't have to feel like this." Teenage tennis phenomenon Coco Gauff had a simple question on her Instagram post: "Am I next?" And two-time Grand Slam winner Naomi Osaka, whose mother is Japanese and father Haitian, reminded her social media followers: "Just because it isn't happening to you doesn't mean it isn't happening at all." NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said the violent protests "reflect the pain, anger and frustration that so many of us feel". With Kaepernick still unable to find a job in the NFL, not everyone was convinced by Goodell or by San Francisco 49ers chief executive Jed York, who pledged $1 million to combat systemic racial discrimination. Former 49er Eric Reid, who knelt alongside Kaepernick, tweeted: "Nobody wants your money Jed. We want justice."

'Plain angry' Jordan joins sports world's call for change after Floyd death

The treasurer of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Arun Dhumal on Monday said that National Cricket Academy and cricket operations team are working on conducting a training camp for elite cricketers but retracted to put any time frame given the prevailing circumstances.

Even though the central government has been taking gradual steps in opening up the economy, COVID-19 cases continue to witness a sharp spike in India while inching towards the 2-lakh mark.&nbsp;

"The (resumption of) national camp is under review with the cricket operations team and NCA staff working out the possibility to have it as soon as possible. Different states are taking different measures (with regards to relaxation on lockdown), so we will take a call accordingly," Dhumal told PTI.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/there-should-be-an-alternative-bowlers-need-something-jasprit-bumrah-on-saliva-ban-302332" hreflang="en">'There should be an alternative, bowlers need something' - Jasprit Bumrah on saliva ban</a>

"Everybody (players) comes from one or the other state. They can coordinate with their respective state association and train till the time it is safe for the entire team to get together," the treasurer once again stressed on the point he had stated before the start of the fourth phase of lockdown.

England cricketers have already started training in batches whereas Australian cricketers have also started their practice sessions with David Warner and Steve Smith attending a practice session in New South Wales on Monday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/smith-in-best-shape-despite-not-picking-up-bat-in-months-302315" hreflang="en">Smith 'in best shape' despite not picking up bat in months</a>

"The flights have just started. We will see the progress with regards to the flight situation and take them to a safe location where we are 100 per cent sure of their safety then we can organise that. We are looking into that."

"They can be moved out to a safe location and from there they can join the camp as and when it happens. As I said, we are looking at all the options," said Dhumal when asked about the two-star players. 
&nbsp;

The treasurer of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Arun Dhumal on Monday said that National Cricket Academy and cricket operations team are working on conducting a training camp for elite cricketers but retracted to put any time frame given the prevailing circumstances.

The treasurer of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Arun Dhumal on Monday said that National Cricket Academy and cricket operations team are working on conducting a training camp for elite cricketers but retracted to put any time frame given the prevailing circumstances. Even though the central government has been taking gradual steps in opening up the economy, COVID-19 cases continue to witness a sharp spike in India while inching towards the 2-lakh mark. "The (resumption of) national camp is under review with the cricket operations team and NCA staff working out the possibility to have it as soon as possible. Different states are taking different measures (with regards to relaxation on lockdown), so we will take a call accordingly," Dhumal told PTI. ALSO READ: 'There should be an alternative, bowlers need something' - Jasprit Bumrah on saliva ban "Everybody (players) comes from one or the other state. They can coordinate with their respective state association and train till the time it is safe for the entire team to get together," the treasurer once again stressed on the point he had stated before the start of the fourth phase of lockdown. England cricketers have already started training in batches whereas Australian cricketers have also started their practice sessions with David Warner and Steve Smith attending a practice session in New South Wales on Monday. ALSO READ: Smith 'in best shape' despite not picking up bat in months "The flights have just started. We will see the progress with regards to the flight situation and take them to a safe location where we are 100 per cent sure of their safety then we can organise that. We are looking into that." "They can be moved out to a safe location and from there they can join the camp as and when it happens. As I said, we are looking at all the options," said Dhumal when asked about the two-star players.

BCCI treasurer Arun Dhumal: NCA and Cricket Operations working on resumption of game and national camp

Cricket will be back to life in Finland with their domestic cricket resuming. The Finnish Premier League T20 2020 is all set to kickstart from June 1 with the final scheduled to be played on August 30.

The two-month-long Finnish Premier League will witness eight teams locking horns to lift the trophy with as many as 60 matches scheduled to be played in the next 60 days. The Dream11 Finnish Premier League T20 2020 will be played at the Kerava National Cricket Ground with Helsinki Cricket Club (HCC) vs Vantaa CC (VCC) being the tournament opener.

Both HCC and VCC would be hoping to start the domestic campaign with a win and carry the momentum forward in the Finnish Premier League T20 2020.&nbsp;

<h2>HCC vs VCC My Dream11 Team for&nbsp;Helsinki Cricket Club&nbsp;vs Vantaa CC:</h2>

T Jayanath Premasiri (C) , G Pensia, M Arumilli (VC), R Sanjeewa, S Metha, A Syed, A Pushthay, M Milan, B Nishanka, G Bhaskar, L Hikkaduwa

Dream11 Finnish Premier League T20 Helsinki Cricket Club probable line-up vs Vantaa CC: Zahidullah (c), Zaki Kamal, Javed Latif, Adnan Sayed, Obaid Ullah, Abdu Ahad, Khalid Mangal, Manish Chohan, Aniket, Anwar Khan, Wahid Qureshi

Dream11 Finnish Premier League T20 Vantaa CC probable line-up vs Helsinki Cricket Club: UKRSF Koruwage, D Hethumuni, PSDS Karunamuny, J Ahmad, T Senanayake, L Hikkaduwa Liyanage Tavernier, Ursan Kim Tavernier, MM Hettiarachilage, TJP Singappuli Arachchilage, N Hangamuwe, G Pensia,HCC vs VCC

 
&nbsp;

Cricket will be back to life in Finland with their domestic cricket resuming. The Finnish Premier League T20 2020 is all set to kickstart from June 1 with the final scheduled to be played on August 30.

Cricket will be back to life in Finland with their domestic cricket resuming. The Finnish Premier League T20 2020 is all set to kickstart from June 1 with the final scheduled to be played on August 30. The two-month-long Finnish Premier League will witness eight teams locking horns to lift the trophy with as many as 60 matches scheduled to be played in the next 60 days. The Dream11 Finnish Premier League T20 2020 will be played at the Kerava National Cricket Ground with Helsinki Cricket Club (HCC) vs Vantaa CC (VCC) being the tournament opener. Both HCC and VCC would be hoping to start the domestic campaign with a win and carry the momentum forward in the Finnish Premier League T20 2020. HCC vs VCC My Dream11 Team for Helsinki Cricket Club vs Vantaa CC: T Jayanath Premasiri (C) , G Pensia, M Arumilli (VC), R Sanjeewa, S Metha, A Syed, A Pushthay, M Milan, B Nishanka, G Bhaskar, L Hikkaduwa Dream11 Finnish Premier League T20 Helsinki Cricket Club probable line-up vs Vantaa CC: Zahidullah (c), Zaki Kamal, Javed Latif, Adnan Sayed, Obaid Ullah, Abdu Ahad, Khalid Mangal, Manish Chohan, Aniket, Anwar Khan, Wahid Qureshi Dream11 Finnish Premier League T20 Vantaa CC probable line-up vs Helsinki Cricket Club: UKRSF Koruwage, D Hethumuni, PSDS Karunamuny, J Ahmad, T Senanayake, L Hikkaduwa Liyanage Tavernier, Ursan Kim Tavernier, MM Hettiarachilage, TJP Singappuli Arachchilage, N Hangamuwe, G Pensia,HCC vs VCC

HCC vs VCC, Dream11 Prediction: Best picks, fantasy cricket tips for Helsinki Cricket Club vs Vantaa CC

India's prolific limited overs vice-captain Rohit Sharma was on Saturday nominated for the prestigious 'Khel Ratna' award by the BCCI for his stupendous performance in 2019 when he dazzled with five hundreds in the 50-over World Cup.

Rohit's opening partner Shikhar Dhawan and Ishant Sharma, the most-capped Test cricketer in the current set-up, have been nominated for the Arjuna Award.

In the women's section, Deepti Sharma got BCCI nomination for her consistent show across formats in the last three years.

The PTI on May 13 had reported about Dhawan and Deepti's likely nominations for the Arjuna award.

Dhawan was in fact nominated in 2018 alongside Smriti Mandhana but missed out on the award.

As skipper Virat Kohli has got the highest sporting honour, Rohit with his magnificent white-ball record over the years was an automatic choice. Having scored 9115 runs in 224 ODIs with 29 hundreds and 43 fifties.

He also has 2141 runs in 32 Tests with six hundreds and 10 fifties. In 108 T20 Internationals, the 33-year-old has scored 2773 runs with four fifties apart from being ICC's 'Cricketer of the Year'.

"We went through a lot of data and considered various parameters before shortlisting the nominees. Rohit Sharma has set new benchmarks as a batsman and achieved scores people thought were not possible in the shorter formats of the game," BCCI president Sourav Ganguly said, referring to his three double hundreds in 50-over cricket.

"We feel he is worthy of getting the prestigious Khel Ratna award for his commitment, conduct, consistency and his leadership skills," Ganguly added.

Secretary Jay Shah termed Rohit as perfect "teamman" who led well in absence of regular skipper Virat Kohli. 
"In the last five years, Rohit Sharma has not only raised the bar with his individual performances but has also led the Indian team with distinction in Virat Kohli's absence," Shah was quoted as saying in a BCCI press release.

For 31-year-old Ishant, it was a long wait to earn the nomination as he is the senior-most member in the current Test set-up with 97 Tests under his belt apart from 80 ODIs and 14 T20Is.

Ishant has 297 Test wickets under his belt and by the end of the year is expected to be second pacer in the country after Kapil Dev to complet 100 Test matches.

"Fast bowlers are prone to injuries and Ishant has had a fair share of them but he has fought hard to be back on the park every time," Ganguly commented on his nomination.

The 34-year-old Dhawan holds the record for the fastest Test century on debut and is the only batsman in the world to have won two consecutive golden bats (for most runs) in the ICC Champions Trophy.

He is also the quickest Indian batsman to reach 2000 and 3000 runs in ODIs and second-fastest Indian to score 4000 and 5000 runs in ODIs.

In 136 ODIs, he has scored 5688 runs with 17 hundreds apart from 2315 runs in 34 Tests (7 hundreds) and 1588 runs in 61 T20 Internationals.

The 24-year-old Deepti has already played 54 ODIs and 48 T20 Internationals for the country. She also holds the record of highest individual score by an Indian woman in ODIs - 188. She has so far scored 1840 international runs and taken 117 wickets across two formats.

India's prolific limited overs vice-captain Rohit Sharma was on Saturday nominated for the prestigious 'Khel Ratna' award by the BCCI for his stupendous performance in 2019 when he dazzled with five hundreds in the 50-over World Cup.

India's prolific limited overs vice-captain Rohit Sharma was on Saturday nominated for the prestigious 'Khel Ratna' award by the BCCI for his stupendous performance in 2019 when he dazzled with five hundreds in the 50-over World Cup. Rohit's opening partner Shikhar Dhawan and Ishant Sharma, the most-capped Test cricketer in the current set-up, have been nominated for the Arjuna Award. In the women's section, Deepti Sharma got BCCI nomination for her consistent show across formats in the last three years. The PTI on May 13 had reported about Dhawan and Deepti's likely nominations for the Arjuna award. Dhawan was in fact nominated in 2018 alongside Smriti Mandhana but missed out on the award. As skipper Virat Kohli has got the highest sporting honour, Rohit with his magnificent white-ball record over the years was an automatic choice. Having scored 9115 runs in 224 ODIs with 29 hundreds and 43 fifties. He also has 2141 runs in 32 Tests with six hundreds and 10 fifties. In 108 T20 Internationals, the 33-year-old has scored 2773 runs with four fifties apart from being ICC's 'Cricketer of the Year'. "We went through a lot of data and considered various parameters before shortlisting the nominees. Rohit Sharma has set new benchmarks as a batsman and achieved scores people thought were not possible in the shorter formats of the game," BCCI president Sourav Ganguly said, referring to his three double hundreds in 50-over cricket. "We feel he is worthy of getting the prestigious Khel Ratna award for his commitment, conduct, consistency and his leadership skills," Ganguly added. Secretary Jay Shah termed Rohit as perfect "teamman" who led well in absence of regular skipper Virat Kohli. "In the last five years, Rohit Sharma has not only raised the bar with his individual performances but has also led the Indian team with distinction in Virat Kohli's absence," Shah was quoted as saying in a BCCI press release. For 31-year-old Ishant, it was a long wait to earn the nomination as he is the senior-most member in the current Test set-up with 97 Tests under his belt apart from 80 ODIs and 14 T20Is. Ishant has 297 Test wickets under his belt and by the end of the year is expected to be second pacer in the country after Kapil Dev to complet 100 Test matches. "Fast bowlers are prone to injuries and Ishant has had a fair share of them but he has fought hard to be back on the park every time," Ganguly commented on his nomination. The 34-year-old Dhawan holds the record for the fastest Test century on debut and is the only batsman in the world to have won two consecutive golden bats (for most runs) in the ICC Champions Trophy. He is also the quickest Indian batsman to reach 2000 and 3000 runs in ODIs and second-fastest Indian to score 4000 and 5000 runs in ODIs. In 136 ODIs, he has scored 5688 runs with 17 hundreds apart from 2315 runs in 34 Tests (7 hundreds) and 1588 runs in 61 T20 Internationals. The 24-year-old Deepti has already played 54 ODIs and 48 T20 Internationals for the country. She also holds the record of highest individual score by an Indian woman in ODIs - 188. She has so far scored 1840 international runs and taken 117 wickets across two formats.

BCCI nominates Rohit for Khel Ratna; Shikhar, Ishant and Deepti for Arjuna

Ace Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah reckons cricket should seek an ‘alternative’ for polishing the ball if the gentlemen’s governing body bans&nbsp;the usage of saliva before the resumption of international cricket following the prolonged break due to COVID-19 pandemic.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is all set to implement a ban on the usage of saliva for the game’s return when they meet after being provided with medical advice that spit poses a COVID-19 transmission risk.

Handshakes, high-fives and hugs are also expected to be out from the game when international cricket resumes with safety protocols in place.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/smith-in-best-shape-despite-not-picking-up-bat-in-months-302315" hreflang="en">Smith 'in best shape' despite not picking up bat in months</a>

"I was not much of a hugger anyway, and not a high-five person as well, so that doesn't trouble me a lot," Bumrah said in an ICC video chat with the former West Indies pace bowler Ian Bishop and the ex-captain of South Africa, Shaun Pollock.

"The only thing that interests me is the saliva bit," added the 26-year-old Bumrah.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-news-bcci-nominates-rohit-for-khel-ratna-shikhar-ishant-and-deepti-for-arjuna-302277" hreflang="en">BCCI nominates Rohit for Khel Ratna; Shikhar, Ishant and Deepti for Arjuna</a>

"I don't know what guidelines that we have to follow when we come back, but I feel there should be an alternative.&nbsp;

"If the ball is not well maintained, it's difficult for the bowlers. The grounds are getting shorter and shorter, the wickets are becoming flatter and flatter. So we need something."

Pacers usually use saliva to shine one side of the ball to make the ball swing.&nbsp;

Earlier, former Indian captain and current chairman of ICC Cricket Committee had sad the ban on saliva would be only an “interim measure”.

Bumrah has become the spearhead of the Indian pace attack by claiming 68 wickets in 14 Tests and 104 wickets in 64 ODIs. 
&nbsp;

Ace Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah reckons cricket should seek an ‘alternative’ for polishing the ball if the gentlemen’s governing body bans the usage of saliva before the resumption of international cricket following the prolonged break due to COVID-19 pandemic.

Ace Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah reckons cricket should seek an ‘alternative’ for polishing the ball if the gentlemen’s governing body bans the usage of saliva before the resumption of international cricket following the prolonged break due to COVID-19 pandemic. The International Cricket Council (ICC) is all set to implement a ban on the usage of saliva for the game’s return when they meet after being provided with medical advice that spit poses a COVID-19 transmission risk. Handshakes, high-fives and hugs are also expected to be out from the game when international cricket resumes with safety protocols in place. ALSO READ: Smith 'in best shape' despite not picking up bat in months "I was not much of a hugger anyway, and not a high-five person as well, so that doesn't trouble me a lot," Bumrah said in an ICC video chat with the former West Indies pace bowler Ian Bishop and the ex-captain of South Africa, Shaun Pollock. "The only thing that interests me is the saliva bit," added the 26-year-old Bumrah. ALSO READ: BCCI nominates Rohit for Khel Ratna; Shikhar, Ishant and Deepti for Arjuna "I don't know what guidelines that we have to follow when we come back, but I feel there should be an alternative. "If the ball is not well maintained, it's difficult for the bowlers. The grounds are getting shorter and shorter, the wickets are becoming flatter and flatter. So we need something." Pacers usually use saliva to shine one side of the ball to make the ball swing. Earlier, former Indian captain and current chairman of ICC Cricket Committee had sad the ban on saliva would be only an “interim measure”. Bumrah has become the spearhead of the Indian pace attack by claiming 68 wickets in 14 Tests and 104 wickets in 64 ODIs.

'There should be an alternative, bowlers need something' - Jasprit Bumrah on saliva ban

There have been no positive findings from the latest round of coronavirus testing carried out in the Premier League, the English top-flight announced on Saturday.

The fourth round of screening saw a total of 1,130 players and club staff tested, with the lack of any new cases bolstering the Premier League's plan to resume the season on June 17.

"The Premier League can today confirm that on Thursday 28 May and Friday 29 May, 1,130 players and club staff were tested for COVID-19," said a statement.

"Of these, zero have tested positive."

That means there have been just 12 positive cases from a combined total of 3,882 tests since Premier League players and club staff started being examined earlier this month.

There have been no positive findings from the latest round of coronavirus testing carried out in the Premier League, the English top-flight announced on Saturday.

There have been no positive findings from the latest round of coronavirus testing carried out in the Premier League, the English top-flight announced on Saturday. The fourth round of screening saw a total of 1,130 players and club staff tested, with the lack of any new cases bolstering the Premier League's plan to resume the season on June 17. "The Premier League can today confirm that on Thursday 28 May and Friday 29 May, 1,130 players and club staff were tested for COVID-19," said a statement. "Of these, zero have tested positive." That means there have been just 12 positive cases from a combined total of 3,882 tests since Premier League players and club staff started being examined earlier this month.

No positives from latest Premier League virus tests

Following German Bundesliga, Spanish top-flight football league La Liga is set to resume services from June 11 with some mouth-watering fixtures ready to enthral the fans of the beautiful game. La Liga 2019-20 season was halted mid-March due to COVID-19 outbreak but now it is ready to get back to life.&nbsp;

In the table, Barcelona were leading arch-rivals Real Madrid by two points after 27 matches when the league was suspended due to COVID-19 outbreak.&nbsp;

The 2019-20 La Liga season will kickstart with the local derby between Sevilla and Real Betis on June 11. Barcelona will host Leganes on June 16 with Valencia locking horns with Real Madrid on June 18. La Liga has released schedules for the first two rounds of fixtures. Meanwhile, La Liga boss Javier Tebas has confirmed that there will be matches every day of the week until the season is finished on July 19.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-positives-from-latest-premier-league-virus-tests-302281" hreflang="en">No positives from latest Premier League virus tests</a>

There are reports stating that Real Madrid will play their home matches at 6.000-capacity training ground while the renovation work continues at the Santiago Bernabeu.

"Fans make football so special and as they cannot be in the stadiums we have created this initiative so they can play a part in the return of the competition and show their support for the heroes of COVID-19," Tebas told television network Movistar.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lewandowski-hits-brace-as-bayern-munich-go-10-points-clear-302278" hreflang="en">Lewandowski hits brace as Bayern Munich go 10 points clear</a>

Meanwhile, Premier League is set to resume on June 17 and Serie A will be kicking off on June 20.

<h2>Barcelona's remaining fixtures:</h2>

June 13: Real Mallorca (A) 
June 16: Leganes (H) 
June 21: Sevilla (A) 
June 24: Athletic Bilbao (H) 
June 28: Celta Vigo (A) 
July 1: Atletico Madrid (H) 
July 5: Villarreal (A) 
July 8: Espanyol (H) 
July 12: Real Valladolid (A) 
July 15: Osasuna (H) 
July 19: Deportivo Alaves (A)

<h2>Real Madrid's remaining fixtures</h2>

June 14: Eibar (H) 
June 18: Valencia (H) 
June 21: Real Sociedad (A) 
June 24: Real Mallorca (H) 
June 28: Espanyol (A) 
July 1: Getafe (H) 
July 5: Athletic Bilbao (A) 
July 8: Deportivo Alaves (H) 
July 12: Granada (A) 
July 15: Villarreal (H) 
July 19: Leganes (A)

Following German Bundesliga, Spanish top-flight football league La Liga is set to resume services from June 11 with some mouth-watering fixtures ready to enthral the fans of the beautiful game.

Following German Bundesliga, Spanish top-flight football league La Liga is set to resume services from June 11 with some mouth-watering fixtures ready to enthral the fans of the beautiful game. La Liga 2019-20 season was halted mid-March due to COVID-19 outbreak but now it is ready to get back to life. In the table, Barcelona were leading arch-rivals Real Madrid by two points after 27 matches when the league was suspended due to COVID-19 outbreak. The 2019-20 La Liga season will kickstart with the local derby between Sevilla and Real Betis on June 11. Barcelona will host Leganes on June 16 with Valencia locking horns with Real Madrid on June 18. La Liga has released schedules for the first two rounds of fixtures. Meanwhile, La Liga boss Javier Tebas has confirmed that there will be matches every day of the week until the season is finished on July 19. ALSO READ: No positives from latest Premier League virus tests There are reports stating that Real Madrid will play their home matches at 6.000-capacity training ground while the renovation work continues at the Santiago Bernabeu. "Fans make football so special and as they cannot be in the stadiums we have created this initiative so they can play a part in the return of the competition and show their support for the heroes of COVID-19," Tebas told television network Movistar. ALSO READ: Lewandowski hits brace as Bayern Munich go 10 points clear Meanwhile, Premier League is set to resume on June 17 and Serie A will be kicking off on June 20. Barcelona's remaining fixtures: June 13: Real Mallorca (A) June 16: Leganes (H) June 21: Sevilla (A) June 24: Athletic Bilbao (H) June 28: Celta Vigo (A) July 1: Atletico Madrid (H) July 5: Villarreal (A) July 8: Espanyol (H) July 12: Real Valladolid (A) July 15: Osasuna (H) July 19: Deportivo Alaves (A) Real Madrid's remaining fixtures June 14: Eibar (H) June 18: Valencia (H) June 21: Real Sociedad (A) June 24: Real Mallorca (H) June 28: Espanyol (A) July 1: Getafe (H) July 5: Athletic Bilbao (A) July 8: Deportivo Alaves (H) July 12: Granada (A) July 15: Villarreal (H) July 19: Leganes (A)

La Liga announces fixtures for 2019-20 season restart; Barca to host Mallorca, Real Madrid to face Eibar

Australia star Steve Smith admitted Monday he has barely picked up a bat since cricket shut down, but said he was in his best physical shape in years.

The 30-year-old, the world's number one Test batsman, has been out of action since March, when Australia's one-day series against New Zealand was abandoned due to the coronavirus pandemic.

He returned to training with his New South Wales teammates Monday as they await the green light for competitive cricket to start again, targeting a home one-day series against Zimbabwe in August.

"I feel like I've had a pre-season the last couple of months. Got myself into probably the best shape I've been in years. Lots of running, lots of gym stuff," Smith said.

"It's been a couple of months of good hard work and now back with the boys, which is great."

But with no net practice, he has barely picked up his bat.

"I haven't touched a bat, really. A couple of little drills at home but that's about it," said Smith, who has plundered more than 7,000 Test runs.&nbsp;

"I've just tried to switch off from it a bit, which I don't do very often. I was just focusing on getting myself fit and strong and refreshing mentally.

"It's been a bit different but I'm sure in the long run it will probably be a good thing to freshen up after what was a pretty long year-and-a-half since the World Cup and Ashes and summer here.

"I'm refreshed and ready to go," he added.

If the virus had not struck, Smith would have been in the plane to Bangladesh this month for a two-Test series, after playing in the postponed Indian Premier League.

He was one of six Cricket Australia-contracted players in the New South Wales squad who rejoined their state teammates Monday, including David Warner, Mitchell Starc and Nathan Lyon.

The squad has been divided into four groups who alternate morning and afternoon indoor gym and skills sessions as part of COVID-19 return-to-training protocols.

Australia star Steve Smith admitted Monday he has barely picked up a bat since cricket shut down, but said he was in his best physical shape in years. The 30-year-old, the world's number one Test batsman, has been out of action since March, when Australia's one-day series against New Zealand was abandoned due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Australia star Steve Smith admitted Monday he has barely picked up a bat since cricket shut down, but said he was in his best physical shape in years. The 30-year-old, the world's number one Test batsman, has been out of action since March, when Australia's one-day series against New Zealand was abandoned due to the coronavirus pandemic. He returned to training with his New South Wales teammates Monday as they await the green light for competitive cricket to start again, targeting a home one-day series against Zimbabwe in August. "I feel like I've had a pre-season the last couple of months. Got myself into probably the best shape I've been in years. Lots of running, lots of gym stuff," Smith said. "It's been a couple of months of good hard work and now back with the boys, which is great." But with no net practice, he has barely picked up his bat. "I haven't touched a bat, really. A couple of little drills at home but that's about it," said Smith, who has plundered more than 7,000 Test runs. "I've just tried to switch off from it a bit, which I don't do very often. I was just focusing on getting myself fit and strong and refreshing mentally. "It's been a bit different but I'm sure in the long run it will probably be a good thing to freshen up after what was a pretty long year-and-a-half since the World Cup and Ashes and summer here. "I'm refreshed and ready to go," he added. If the virus had not struck, Smith would have been in the plane to Bangladesh this month for a two-Test series, after playing in the postponed Indian Premier League. He was one of six Cricket Australia-contracted players in the New South Wales squad who rejoined their state teammates Monday, including David Warner, Mitchell Starc and Nathan Lyon. The squad has been divided into four groups who alternate morning and afternoon indoor gym and skills sessions as part of COVID-19 return-to-training protocols.

Smith 'in best shape' despite not picking up bat in months

Former skipper Kumar Sangakkara believes missing Angelo Mathews due to an injury hurt Sri Lanka badly in the summit clash of the 2011 World Cup, which hosts India won after a gap of 28 years.

Having played a key role in their thrilling semifinal win against New Zealand, Mathews was forced out of the final against India at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium by a quadriceps muscle injury.

Reflecting on the six-wicket loss to India, the former Sri Lankan captain said Mathews' injury forced him to opt for a 6-5 combination and was also the reason behind his decision to bat first after winning the toss.

"In that WC final, that's the biggest thing I look back and think...You can talk about drop catches and all of that happens. But the composition of the side and the fact that we were forced to make the change was to me the turning point,"

Sangakkara said in the latest episode of Instagram series 'Reminisce with Ash' hosted by India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin.

Mahela Jayawardene's unbeaten 103 went in vain as India hunted down 275 with Gautam Gambhir setting up the chase with a 97-run knock before skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni finished off in style, smashing Nuwan Kulasekara for the winning six in his unbeaten 91.

"But for 100 per cent, if Angelo (Mathews) had been fit, I know for sure we would have gone for chase... I'm not sure whether the result would have changed. That balance of team that Mathews would give at seven really was a bonus," the former wicketkeeper batsman said

"If you take our entire campaign, whatever we did Mathews' overs and his ability to bat with the tail and read situations was an incredible bonus to us. He was a young chap who came into the side and from day one he could read situations. It's just instinct, how to up the rate, how to control the bowler, when to accelerate."

During the conversation, Ashwin also asked him about the controversial toss when the coin was flipped twice amid the cacophony of the Wankhede and eventually Sangakkara elected to bat.

"The was crowd was huge. It never happens in Sri Lanka. Once I had this at Eden Gardens when I could not talk to the first slip and then of course at the Wankhede. I remember calling on the toss then Mahi wasn't sure and said did you call tail and I said no I called head.

"The match referee actually said I won the toss, Mahi said he did not. There was a little bit of confusion there and Mahi said let's have another toss of the coin and heads went up again," he said.

"I am not sure whether it was luck that I won. I believe probably India might have batted if I had lost."

The loss prolonged Sri Lanka's wait for another world title as yet again the 1996 champions failed in the final hurdle.

"Whether we win or lose, we have this equilibrium on how to take a win or loss. The smile hides a huge amount of sadness, of disappointment, of thinking of 20 million people back in Sri Lanka who had been waiting for this for so long, since 1996.

"We had an opportunity in 2011, opportunity in 2007, then T20 opportunities in 2009 and 2012," Sangakkara said.

Former skipper Kumar Sangakkara believes missing Angelo Mathews due to an injury hurt Sri Lanka badly in the summit clash of the 2011 World Cup, which hosts India won after a gap of 28 years.

Former skipper Kumar Sangakkara believes missing Angelo Mathews due to an injury hurt Sri Lanka badly in the summit clash of the 2011 World Cup, which hosts India won after a gap of 28 years. Having played a key role in their thrilling semifinal win against New Zealand, Mathews was forced out of the final against India at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium by a quadriceps muscle injury. Reflecting on the six-wicket loss to India, the former Sri Lankan captain said Mathews' injury forced him to opt for a 6-5 combination and was also the reason behind his decision to bat first after winning the toss. "In that WC final, that's the biggest thing I look back and think...You can talk about drop catches and all of that happens. But the composition of the side and the fact that we were forced to make the change was to me the turning point," Sangakkara said in the latest episode of Instagram series 'Reminisce with Ash' hosted by India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin. Mahela Jayawardene's unbeaten 103 went in vain as India hunted down 275 with Gautam Gambhir setting up the chase with a 97-run knock before skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni finished off in style, smashing Nuwan Kulasekara for the winning six in his unbeaten 91. "But for 100 per cent, if Angelo (Mathews) had been fit, I know for sure we would have gone for chase... I'm not sure whether the result would have changed. That balance of team that Mathews would give at seven really was a bonus," the former wicketkeeper batsman said "If you take our entire campaign, whatever we did Mathews' overs and his ability to bat with the tail and read situations was an incredible bonus to us. He was a young chap who came into the side and from day one he could read situations. It's just instinct, how to up the rate, how to control the bowler, when to accelerate." During the conversation, Ashwin also asked him about the controversial toss when the coin was flipped twice amid the cacophony of the Wankhede and eventually Sangakkara elected to bat. "The was crowd was huge. It never happens in Sri Lanka. Once I had this at Eden Gardens when I could not talk to the first slip and then of course at the Wankhede. I remember calling on the toss then Mahi wasn't sure and said did you call tail and I said no I called head. "The match referee actually said I won the toss, Mahi said he did not. There was a little bit of confusion there and Mahi said let's have another toss of the coin and heads went up again," he said. "I am not sure whether it was luck that I won. I believe probably India might have batted if I had lost." The loss prolonged Sri Lanka's wait for another world title as yet again the 1996 champions failed in the final hurdle. "Whether we win or lose, we have this equilibrium on how to take a win or loss. The smile hides a huge amount of sadness, of disappointment, of thinking of 20 million people back in Sri Lanka who had been waiting for this for so long, since 1996. "We had an opportunity in 2011, opportunity in 2007, then T20 opportunities in 2009 and 2012," Sangakkara said.

Mathews' absence in 2011 WC final hurt us: Sangakkara

Premier League football is set to return on June 17 after a three-month coronavirus-enforced absence. Nothing realistically will stop Liverpool from being crowned English champions for the first time in 30 years.

But there are a whole host of other issues to sort out, including relegation and next year's European places, with the drama set to take place in empty, echoing stadiums.

AFP Sport takes a look at what still needs to be resolved.

<h2>When will Liverpool be champions?</h2>

Liverpool were 25 points clear of Manchester City and just two wins away from becoming English champions for the first time since 1990 when the league was suspended in March.

But while COVID-19 may have delayed their title party, nobody seriously believes it is not going to happen.&nbsp;

Two more wins would make it mathematically impossible for City to catch Liverpool but the Reds could triumph by winning their first game if City lose at home to Arsenal on June 17.

Jurgen Klopp's men can also break two of City's most cherished records -- they need 19 points from the remaining 27 to beat the Manchester club's&nbsp;total of 100 points from the 2017/18 season and they could also better City's record title-winning margin of 19 points from the same campaign.

Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson lifted the Champions League trophy in a packed stadium in Madrid last June but is preparing for a different experience this year.

"Of course it would feel different because if you win any trophy and receive it without any fans there, it would be pretty strange," he told the BBC.

<h2>Champions League battle</h2>

Intriguingly, the battle for the top four might instead be a battle for the top five.

Liverpool are assured of their place in the Champions League and the other top-four places are currently occupied by Manchester City, Leicester and Chelsea.

But as things stand, City cannot compete in Europe's top club competition for the next two seasons after being banned for financial fair play breaches.

Pep Guardiola's side have appealed, however, and could still compete if the suspension is overturned.

If it is upheld, whoever finishes fifth will take their place in next season's Champions League. Manchester United currently occupy that position but Wolves and Sheffield United are both just two points behind Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's team.

Eighth-placed Tottenham and Arsenal, one spot lower, will also fancy their chances of finishing fifth with a late charge.

<h2>Battle to avoid the drop</h2>

Norwich, Aston Villa and Bournemouth occupy the bottom three places in the Premier League but all will harbour hopes they can escape the drop.

Norwich are rock-bottom and six points from safety but a win at home to Leicester in late February gave them hope.

Villa had lost four straight games before the shutdown so the break could end up helping the Birmingham team, who have a game in hand over their rivals, while Eddie Howe will be desperate for Bournemouth to find some form after a run of seven defeats in 10 games.

Above the current bottom three, Watford are still in trouble despite their impressive initial revival under Nigel Pearson, while West Ham and Brighton are far from safe.

<h2>Fit to play</h2>

A clutch of top players will be raring to go after lengthy spells on the sidelines.

England striker Harry Kane is hungry for a return and Spurs team-mate Son Heung-min will also be able to feature after recovering from a broken arm.

Manchester United pair Paul Pogba, with just eight appearances this season, and Marcus Rashford, out of action since January with a back injury, should also feature.

Premier League football is set to return on June 17 after a three-month coronavirus-enforced absence. Nothing realistically will stop Liverpool from being crowned English champions for the first time in 30 years.

Premier League football is set to return on June 17 after a three-month coronavirus-enforced absence. Nothing realistically will stop Liverpool from being crowned English champions for the first time in 30 years. But there are a whole host of other issues to sort out, including relegation and next year's European places, with the drama set to take place in empty, echoing stadiums. AFP Sport takes a look at what still needs to be resolved. When will Liverpool be champions? Liverpool were 25 points clear of Manchester City and just two wins away from becoming English champions for the first time since 1990 when the league was suspended in March. But while COVID-19 may have delayed their title party, nobody seriously believes it is not going to happen. Two more wins would make it mathematically impossible for City to catch Liverpool but the Reds could triumph by winning their first game if City lose at home to Arsenal on June 17. Jurgen Klopp's men can also break two of City's most cherished records -- they need 19 points from the remaining 27 to beat the Manchester club's total of 100 points from the 2017/18 season and they could also better City's record title-winning margin of 19 points from the same campaign. Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson lifted the Champions League trophy in a packed stadium in Madrid last June but is preparing for a different experience this year. "Of course it would feel different because if you win any trophy and receive it without any fans there, it would be pretty strange," he told the BBC. Champions League battle Intriguingly, the battle for the top four might instead be a battle for the top five. Liverpool are assured of their place in the Champions League and the other top-four places are currently occupied by Manchester City, Leicester and Chelsea. But as things stand, City cannot compete in Europe's top club competition for the next two seasons after being banned for financial fair play breaches. Pep Guardiola's side have appealed, however, and could still compete if the suspension is overturned. If it is upheld, whoever finishes fifth will take their place in next season's Champions League. Manchester United currently occupy that position but Wolves and Sheffield United are both just two points behind Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's team. Eighth-placed Tottenham and Arsenal, one spot lower, will also fancy their chances of finishing fifth with a late charge. Battle to avoid the drop Norwich, Aston Villa and Bournemouth occupy the bottom three places in the Premier League but all will harbour hopes they can escape the drop. Norwich are rock-bottom and six points from safety but a win at home to Leicester in late February gave them hope. Villa had lost four straight games before the shutdown so the break could end up helping the Birmingham team, who have a game in hand over their rivals, while Eddie Howe will be desperate for Bournemouth to find some form after a run of seven defeats in 10 games. Above the current bottom three, Watford are still in trouble despite their impressive initial revival under Nigel Pearson, while West Ham and Brighton are far from safe. Fit to play A clutch of top players will be raring to go after lengthy spells on the sidelines. England striker Harry Kane is hungry for a return and Spurs team-mate Son Heung-min will also be able to feature after recovering from a broken arm. Manchester United pair Paul Pogba, with just eight appearances this season, and Marcus Rashford, out of action since January with a back injury, should also feature.

Premier League return: the issues to resolve

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Subhayan Chakraborty

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