Indian cricket team’s captain Virat Kohli has an impeccable record with the willow across formats. While the swashbuckling batsman is already regarded as one of the greats of the game, Kohli’s batting touches a new peak whenever India is chasing a target, especially in the limited-overs format. Now, Kohli has given a sneak peek into his mindset as the Indian skipper revealed how he plans to chase down big targets to Bangladesh opener Tamim Iqbal.&nbsp;

Kohli agreed that whenever an opposition player instigates him to play an aggressive shot or sledges him, he gets motivated even more. Kohli added that during his childhood, he used to think that he could have won the match for India whenever the Men in Blue used to suffer defeat.&nbsp;

The Indian skipper emphasized that no target is impossible to chase and all depends on how a player builds his innings and partnership.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/anil-kumble-led-icc-cricket-committee-recommends-ban-on-saliva-due-to-covid-19-pandemic-299598" hreflang="en">Anil Kumble-led ICC Cricket Committee recommends ban on saliva due to COVID-19 pandemic</a>

"When it comes to chasing targets, my mental state is simple -- if someone says something to me from the opposition side, then I get more motivated. When I was younger, I used to watch matches on television. If India did not end up winning the match while chasing targets, I used to think if I was there, I would have won the match," Kohli said in a Facebook Live session with Tamim.

"Chasing is a situation where you know how many runs you have to score. For me winning is important. While chasing I think I can walk out not out. At that time I think I can make the team win. If the target is 370/380, I never feel like that it cannot be done," he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-hopes-rise-as-indian-government-allows-re-opening-of-stadiums-299457" hreflang="en">IPL hopes rise as Indian government allows re-opening of stadiums</a>

The 31-year-old further gave an insight to how he along with Suresh Raina chased down 330 odd runs in 40 overs against Sri Lanka as he said that they divided 40 overs into two T20 matches and got going.

"There was a game in Hobart against Sri Lanka, where we had to chase 330 odd in 40 overs to qualify for the finals. I discussed with Raina that we will set up the chase as if we are playing two T20 matches," Kohli said.

Kohli holds the number one rank in ICC ODI rankings for batsman while being in the second spot in Test cricket. 
&nbsp;

Indian cricket team’s captain Virat Kohli has an impeccable record with the willow across formats. While the swashbuckling batsman is already regarded as one of the greats of the game, Kohli’s batting touches a new peak whenever India is chasing a target, especially in the limited-overs format.

Indian cricket team’s captain Virat Kohli has an impeccable record with the willow across formats. While the swashbuckling batsman is already regarded as one of the greats of the game, Kohli’s batting touches a new peak whenever India is chasing a target, especially in the limited-overs format. Now, Kohli has given a sneak peek into his mindset as the Indian skipper revealed how he plans to chase down big targets to Bangladesh opener Tamim Iqbal. Kohli agreed that whenever an opposition player instigates him to play an aggressive shot or sledges him, he gets motivated even more. Kohli added that during his childhood, he used to think that he could have won the match for India whenever the Men in Blue used to suffer defeat. The Indian skipper emphasized that no target is impossible to chase and all depends on how a player builds his innings and partnership. ALSO READ: Anil Kumble-led ICC Cricket Committee recommends ban on saliva due to COVID-19 pandemic "When it comes to chasing targets, my mental state is simple -- if someone says something to me from the opposition side, then I get more motivated. When I was younger, I used to watch matches on television. If India did not end up winning the match while chasing targets, I used to think if I was there, I would have won the match," Kohli said in a Facebook Live session with Tamim. "Chasing is a situation where you know how many runs you have to score. For me winning is important. While chasing I think I can walk out not out. At that time I think I can make the team win. If the target is 370/380, I never feel like that it cannot be done," he added. ALSO READ: IPL hopes rise as Indian government allows re-opening of stadiums The 31-year-old further gave an insight to how he along with Suresh Raina chased down 330 odd runs in 40 overs against Sri Lanka as he said that they divided 40 overs into two T20 matches and got going. "There was a game in Hobart against Sri Lanka, where we had to chase 330 odd in 40 overs to qualify for the finals. I discussed with Raina that we will set up the chase as if we are playing two T20 matches," Kohli said. Kohli holds the number one rank in ICC ODI rankings for batsman while being in the second spot in Test cricket.

'Chasing is a situation where...'- Virat Kohli reveals his mindset during run-chases

Australia's two-time World Cup winning captain Ricky Ponting says senior batsman Usman Khawaja was axed from the national team due to his inconsistency but he is not willing to write him off yet.

The 33-year-old Khawaja was recently left out of the Australia's annual list of contracted players after he was dropped midway through last year's Ashes.

"I honestly think now he's going to find it difficult (to get back into the Australian team) and I feel for him," Ponting, who was recently involved with the Australian team as a batting consultant, told ABC Grandstand.

"I've always felt he's a very good player and we probably never saw the absolute best of him at international cricket. We saw glimpses of it, and dribs and drabs, but not the consistently good player I thought he could have been for Australia." 
Ponting, however, hoped that Khawaja can score loads of runs in the domestic cirucit and make an international comeback.

"One thing I know, you never write great players off. He's got every opportunity once domestic cricket does start this summer, and all he can do is represent Queensland, get a truck load of runs under his belt and wait for another opportunity to come along.

"If it does I'm sure he wouldn't let anyone down if he gets a chance to play again."

Khawaja has played 44 Tests and 40 ODIs, scoring 2,887 and 1,554 runs respectively. He has eight hundreds and 14 half-centuries in Tests and two hundreds in ODIs.&nbsp;

Australia's two-time World Cup winning captain Ricky Ponting says senior batsman Usman Khawaja was axed from the national team due to his inconsistency but he is not willing to write him off yet.

Australia's two-time World Cup winning captain Ricky Ponting says senior batsman Usman Khawaja was axed from the national team due to his inconsistency but he is not willing to write him off yet. The 33-year-old Khawaja was recently left out of the Australia's annual list of contracted players after he was dropped midway through last year's Ashes. "I honestly think now he's going to find it difficult (to get back into the Australian team) and I feel for him," Ponting, who was recently involved with the Australian team as a batting consultant, told ABC Grandstand. "I've always felt he's a very good player and we probably never saw the absolute best of him at international cricket. We saw glimpses of it, and dribs and drabs, but not the consistently good player I thought he could have been for Australia." Ponting, however, hoped that Khawaja can score loads of runs in the domestic cirucit and make an international comeback. "One thing I know, you never write great players off. He's got every opportunity once domestic cricket does start this summer, and all he can do is represent Queensland, get a truck load of runs under his belt and wait for another opportunity to come along. "If it does I'm sure he wouldn't let anyone down if he gets a chance to play again." Khawaja has played 44 Tests and 40 ODIs, scoring 2,887 and 1,554 runs respectively. He has eight hundreds and 14 half-centuries in Tests and two hundreds in ODIs.

Khawaja was dropped due to inconsistency, his return will be difficult: Ponting

Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi’s controversial remarks on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Kashmir created a massive outrage on social media platform Twitter. While Indian cricketers like Harbhajan Singh, Gautam Gambhir lashed out at Afridi for disrespecting PM Modi and creating unnecessary controversy surrounding Kashmir, Yuvraj Singh, Suresh Raina and Shikhar Dhawan tore into the former Pakistan all-rounder for his speech, which went viral in no time.&nbsp;

Shahid Afridi disrespects PM Modi with controversial remarks on Kashmir

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They are viper with poison to their neck, ready to bite at very chance they get. 
 
Listen this snake Shahid Afridi Abusing our army. <a href="https://t.co/0hcMNW7242">pic.twitter.com/0hcMNW7242</a>
— Aditi Rajput (@aditi_cted) <a href="https://twitter.com/aditi_cted/status/1261742038732673027?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Harbhajan and Yuvraj Singh’s name were constantly pointed out by netizens due to their earlier donation to Shahid Afridi Foundation in its fight against COVID-19 pandemic, Harbhajan made it clear Afridi’s comments were unacceptable and out of order while adding that their donation was just a humanitarian gesture for people suffering in the pandemic. Harbhajan further made it clear that he will keep no relation with Afridi from here on.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/harbhajan-singh-gautam-gambhir-hit-back-at-pakistans-shahid-afridi-over-controversial-comments-on-kashmir-and-pm-modi-299225" hreflang="en">Harbhajan Singh, Gautam Gambhir hit back at Pakistan's Shahid Afridi over controversial comments on Kashmir and PM Modi</a>

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Yes NEVER AGAIN no matter what <a href="https://t.co/PZBWAEoloR">https://t.co/PZBWAEoloR</a>
— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) <a href="https://twitter.com/harbhajan_singh/status/1262016678851784705?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Yuvraj Singh, also reacted to Afridi’s controversial remarks as he tweeted: “Really disappointed by @SAfridiOfficial‘s comments on our Hon’b PM @narendramodi ji. As a responsible Indian who has played for the country, I will never accept such words. I made an appeal on your behest for the sake of humanity. But never again. Jai Hind”

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Really disappointed by <a href="https://twitter.com/SAfridiOfficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SAfridiOfficial</a>‘s comments on our Hon’b PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> ji. As a responsible Indian who has played for the country, I will never accept such words. I made an appeal on your behest for the sake of humanity. But never again. 
 
Jai Hind
— yuvraj singh (@YUVSTRONG12) <a href="https://twitter.com/YUVSTRONG12/status/1262001367561846784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mha-allows-sports-complexes-stadia-to-open-in-lockdown-4-but-no-entry-for-spectators-299272" hreflang="en">MHA allows sports complexes, stadia to open in Lockdown 4 but no entry for spectators</a>

Whereas, Suresh Raina hammered Afridi as he tweeted: “Gosh! What all a person must do to remain relevant! Even more so for a nation that is living on alms. So, better do something for your failed nation and leave #Kashmir alone. I am a proud Kashmiri and it is and will always remain an inalienable part of India. Jai Hind!”

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Gosh! What all a person must do to remain relevant! Even more so for a nation that is living on alms. So, better do something for your failed nation and leave <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kashmir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kashmir</a> alone. I am a proud Kashmiri and it is and will always remain an inalienable part of India. Jai Hind!
— Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRaina/status/1262042459036516353?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Shikhar Dhawan gave a cracking response in desi style as he tweeted in Hindi: “When the entire world is fighting coronavirus, you are concerned about Kashmir. Kashmir was, is and will always be ours. Even if you get 22 crore, our one is equal to 15 lakh. Count the rest on your own”

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Is waqt jab saari duniya corona se lad rahi hai us waqt bhi tumko kashmir ki padi hai. 
Kashmir humara tha humare hai aur humara hi rahega. Chaiyeh 22 crore le ao, humara ek, sava lakh ke barabar hai . Baaki ginti apne aap kar lena <a href="https://twitter.com/SAfridiOfficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SAfridiOfficial</a>
— Shikhar Dhawan (@SDhawan25) <a href="https://twitter.com/SDhawan25/status/1262024869723570178?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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This is not the first time Afridi has given a controversial statement on Kashmir as on last Friday, he tweeted: “It does not take a religious belief to feel the agony of Kashmiris..just a right heart at the right place. #SaveKashmir”

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It does not take a religious belief to feel the agony of Kashmiris..just a right heart at the right place. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SaveKashmir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SaveKashmir</a>
— Shahid Afridi (@SAfridiOfficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/SAfridiOfficial/status/1261340575917387777?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Last year, Afridi had visited the Line of Control (LoC) to “express solidarity with our Kashmiri brethren” following the Indian government’s decision to abrogate Article 370 of the Indian Constitution.&nbsp;

But the question remains, when will Pakistan cricketers stop obsessing about India?

Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi’s controversial remarks on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Kashmir created a massive outrage on social media platform Twitter.

Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi’s controversial remarks on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Kashmir created a massive outrage on social media platform Twitter. While Indian cricketers like Harbhajan Singh, Gautam Gambhir lashed out at Afridi for disrespecting PM Modi and creating unnecessary controversy surrounding Kashmir, Yuvraj Singh, Suresh Raina and Shikhar Dhawan tore into the former Pakistan all-rounder for his speech, which went viral in no time. Shahid Afridi disrespects PM Modi with controversial remarks on Kashmir They are viper with poison to their neck, ready to bite at very chance they get. Listen this snake Shahid Afridi Abusing our army. pic.twitter.com/0hcMNW7242 — Aditi Rajput (@aditi_cted) May 16, 2020 × Harbhajan and Yuvraj Singh’s name were constantly pointed out by netizens due to their earlier donation to Shahid Afridi Foundation in its fight against COVID-19 pandemic, Harbhajan made it clear Afridi’s comments were unacceptable and out of order while adding that their donation was just a humanitarian gesture for people suffering in the pandemic. Harbhajan further made it clear that he will keep no relation with Afridi from here on. ALSO READ: Harbhajan Singh, Gautam Gambhir hit back at Pakistan's Shahid Afridi over controversial comments on Kashmir and PM Modi Yes NEVER AGAIN no matter what https://t.co/PZBWAEoloR — Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) May 17, 2020 × Yuvraj Singh, also reacted to Afridi’s controversial remarks as he tweeted: “Really disappointed by @SAfridiOfficial‘s comments on our Hon’b PM @narendramodi ji. As a responsible Indian who has played for the country, I will never accept such words. I made an appeal on your behest for the sake of humanity. But never again. Jai Hind” Really disappointed by @SAfridiOfficial‘s comments on our Hon’b PM @narendramodi ji. As a responsible Indian who has played for the country, I will never accept such words. I made an appeal on your behest for the sake of humanity. But never again. Jai Hind — yuvraj singh (@YUVSTRONG12) May 17, 2020 × ALSO READ: MHA allows sports complexes, stadia to open in Lockdown 4 but no entry for spectators Whereas, Suresh Raina hammered Afridi as he tweeted: “Gosh! What all a person must do to remain relevant! Even more so for a nation that is living on alms. So, better do something for your failed nation and leave #Kashmir alone. I am a proud Kashmiri and it is and will always remain an inalienable part of India. Jai Hind!” Gosh! What all a person must do to remain relevant! Even more so for a nation that is living on alms. So, better do something for your failed nation and leave #Kashmir alone. I am a proud Kashmiri and it is and will always remain an inalienable part of India. Jai Hind! — Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) May 17, 2020 × Shikhar Dhawan gave a cracking response in desi style as he tweeted in Hindi: “When the entire world is fighting coronavirus, you are concerned about Kashmir. Kashmir was, is and will always be ours. Even if you get 22 crore, our one is equal to 15 lakh. Count the rest on your own” Is waqt jab saari duniya corona se lad rahi hai us waqt bhi tumko kashmir ki padi hai. Kashmir humara tha humare hai aur humara hi rahega. Chaiyeh 22 crore le ao, humara ek, sava lakh ke barabar hai . Baaki ginti apne aap kar lena @SAfridiOfficial — Shikhar Dhawan (@SDhawan25) May 17, 2020 × This is not the first time Afridi has given a controversial statement on Kashmir as on last Friday, he tweeted: “It does not take a religious belief to feel the agony of Kashmiris..just a right heart at the right place. #SaveKashmir” It does not take a religious belief to feel the agony of Kashmiris..just a right heart at the right place. #SaveKashmir — Shahid Afridi (@SAfridiOfficial) May 15, 2020 × Last year, Afridi had visited the Line of Control (LoC) to “express solidarity with our Kashmiri brethren” following the Indian government’s decision to abrogate Article 370 of the Indian Constitution. But the question remains, when will Pakistan cricketers stop obsessing about India?

Yuvraj, Raina, Dhawan destroy Pakistan's Shahid Afridi over controversial remarks on PM Modi and Kashmir

Thomas Mueller joked that the Bundesliga without fans feels like "old man's football, 7pm, under floodlights" after Bayern Munich brushed aside Union Berlin 2-0 behind closed doors on Sunday.

A first-half Robert Lewandowski penalty and a late Benjamin Pavard header sealed Bayern's win in front of empty terraces in Berlin.

The result leaves defending champions Bayern four points clear as the German league restarted this weekend after a two-month hiatus due to the COVID-19 virus.

However, Mueller admitted it was strange to play Union behind closed doors at their compact Alten Foersterei stadium, which is usually packed with 22,000 passionate home fans.

"It felt a bit like the atmosphere you get for old man's football, 7pm, under floodlights, but as soon as the ball started to roll, the game took our focus," said Mueller.

The Bundesliga became the first top European league to resume this weekend, using draconian hygiene guidelines, regular testing of players and insisting on games in near-empty stadiums.

Hugging, embracing and handshakes were also banned.&nbsp;

"There were a few butterflies before the restart, wondering how it would go, like before the first game of the season in August," said Mueller.

"I wasn't worried about anything going wrong, everything was explained clearly to us.

"Union Berlin, just like us, were well prepared, no handshakes before kick-off etc."

Mueller said the defending champions were just happy to win their first game after the restart to keep them on course for an eighth consecutive league title.

"We came here with the goal of getting the three points," added Mueller.

"We had a bit more security after the second goal."

Thomas Mueller joked that the Bundesliga without fans feels like "old man's football, 7pm, under floodlights" after Bayern Munich brushed aside Union Berlin 2-0 behind closed doors on Sunday.

Thomas Mueller joked that the Bundesliga without fans feels like "old man's football, 7pm, under floodlights" after Bayern Munich brushed aside Union Berlin 2-0 behind closed doors on Sunday. A first-half Robert Lewandowski penalty and a late Benjamin Pavard header sealed Bayern's win in front of empty terraces in Berlin. The result leaves defending champions Bayern four points clear as the German league restarted this weekend after a two-month hiatus due to the COVID-19 virus. However, Mueller admitted it was strange to play Union behind closed doors at their compact Alten Foersterei stadium, which is usually packed with 22,000 passionate home fans. "It felt a bit like the atmosphere you get for old man's football, 7pm, under floodlights, but as soon as the ball started to roll, the game took our focus," said Mueller. The Bundesliga became the first top European league to resume this weekend, using draconian hygiene guidelines, regular testing of players and insisting on games in near-empty stadiums. Hugging, embracing and handshakes were also banned. "There were a few butterflies before the restart, wondering how it would go, like before the first game of the season in August," said Mueller. "I wasn't worried about anything going wrong, everything was explained clearly to us. "Union Berlin, just like us, were well prepared, no handshakes before kick-off etc." Mueller said the defending champions were just happy to win their first game after the restart to keep them on course for an eighth consecutive league title. "We came here with the goal of getting the three points," added Mueller. "We had a bit more security after the second goal."

German league without fans like "old man's football", says Mueller

Werder Bremen are set to host Bayer&nbsp;Leverkusen at the Weserstadion on Sunday as live football action in Bundesliga continues. The German top-flight league resumed, behind the closed doors, on Saturday and both Werder Bremen and Bayer&nbsp;Leverkusen would be looking to kick-start their season again with a win.

While Bayer&nbsp;Leverkusen have been impressive in Bundesliga 2019-20 season by picking up 47 points off 25 matches and sit fifth in the standings, Werder Bremen have had a terrible season so far and are lying in the relegation zone (17) with just 18 points in 24 matches.

Bayer&nbsp;Leverkusen head into the match as heavy favourites and are expected to wrap up a comfortable victory given they hit a smooth transition post the resumption.&nbsp;

For Dream11 and fantasy players, the match brings good headache as both the sides boast quality players.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/german-league-without-fans-like-old-mans-football-says-mueller-299362" hreflang="en">German league without fans like "old man's football", says Mueller</a>

<h2>My Dream11 prediction for WBN vs LEV (Werder Bremen vs Bayer&nbsp;Leverkusen), Bundesliga 2019-20 match:</h2>

Pavlenka, Tah, Daley, Bender, Weiser, Eggestein, Kai (C), Rashica, Diaby (VC), Sahin, Alario&nbsp;

<h2>WBN vs LEV Squads</h2>

Werder Bremen: Jirí Pavlenka1, Stefanos Kapino, Luca Plogmann, Michael Lang, Ludwig Augustinsson, Milos Veljkovic, Sebastian Langkamp, Niklas Moisander, Ömer Toprak, Marco Friedl, Niklas Wiemann, Kevin Vogt, Kevin Möhwald, Milot Rashica, Leonardo Bittencourt, Nuri Sahin1, Fin Bartels, Theodor Gebre Selassie, Simon Straudi, Ilia Gruev, Julian Rieckmann, Maximilian Eggestein, Christian Gross, Benjamin Goller, Philipp Bargfrede, Yuya Osako, Davie Selke, Niclas Füllkrug, Claudio Pizarro, Joshua Sargent, Johannes Eggestein, Luc Ihorst, Davy Klaassen, Nick Woltemade

Bayer Leverkusen: Lukas Hradecky, Ramazan Özcan, Niklas Lomb, Jonathan Tah, Aleksandar Dragovic, Edmond Tapsoba, Wendell, Sven Bender, Paulinho, Lars Bender, Kerem Demirbay, Nadiem Amiri, Julian Baumgartlinger, Charles Aránguiz, Daley Sinkgraven, Mitchell Weiser, Exequiel Palacios, Kai Havertz, Adrian Stanilewicz, Ayman Azhil, Leon Bailey, Lucas Alario, Moussa Diaby, Kevin Volland, Karim Bellarabi 
&nbsp;

Werder Bremen are set to host Bayer Leverkusen at the Weserstadion on Sunday as live football action in Bundesliga continues. The German top-flight league resumed, behind the closed doors, on Saturday and both Werder Bremen and Bayer Leverkusen would be looking to kick-start their season again with a win.

Werder Bremen are set to host Bayer Leverkusen at the Weserstadion on Sunday as live football action in Bundesliga continues. The German top-flight league resumed, behind the closed doors, on Saturday and both Werder Bremen and Bayer Leverkusen would be looking to kick-start their season again with a win. While Bayer Leverkusen have been impressive in Bundesliga 2019-20 season by picking up 47 points off 25 matches and sit fifth in the standings, Werder Bremen have had a terrible season so far and are lying in the relegation zone (17) with just 18 points in 24 matches. Bayer Leverkusen head into the match as heavy favourites and are expected to wrap up a comfortable victory given they hit a smooth transition post the resumption. For Dream11 and fantasy players, the match brings good headache as both the sides boast quality players. ALSO READ: German league without fans like "old man's football", says Mueller My Dream11 prediction for WBN vs LEV (Werder Bremen vs Bayer Leverkusen), Bundesliga 2019-20 match: Pavlenka, Tah, Daley, Bender, Weiser, Eggestein, Kai (C), Rashica, Diaby (VC), Sahin, Alario WBN vs LEV Squads Werder Bremen: Jirí Pavlenka1, Stefanos Kapino, Luca Plogmann, Michael Lang, Ludwig Augustinsson, Milos Veljkovic, Sebastian Langkamp, Niklas Moisander, Ömer Toprak, Marco Friedl, Niklas Wiemann, Kevin Vogt, Kevin Möhwald, Milot Rashica, Leonardo Bittencourt, Nuri Sahin1, Fin Bartels, Theodor Gebre Selassie, Simon Straudi, Ilia Gruev, Julian Rieckmann, Maximilian Eggestein, Christian Gross, Benjamin Goller, Philipp Bargfrede, Yuya Osako, Davie Selke, Niclas Füllkrug, Claudio Pizarro, Joshua Sargent, Johannes Eggestein, Luc Ihorst, Davy Klaassen, Nick Woltemade Bayer Leverkusen: Lukas Hradecky, Ramazan Özcan, Niklas Lomb, Jonathan Tah, Aleksandar Dragovic, Edmond Tapsoba, Wendell, Sven Bender, Paulinho, Lars Bender, Kerem Demirbay, Nadiem Amiri, Julian Baumgartlinger, Charles Aránguiz, Daley Sinkgraven, Mitchell Weiser, Exequiel Palacios, Kai Havertz, Adrian Stanilewicz, Ayman Azhil, Leon Bailey, Lucas Alario, Moussa Diaby, Kevin Volland, Karim Bellarabi

WBN vs LEV, Dream11 Prediction, Bundesliga: Fantasy football tips for Werder Bremen vs Bayer Leverkusen

Premier League clubs will return to training in small groups from Tuesday after the latest stage of "Project Restart" was approved on Monday.

Clubs unanimously voted to allow players to start socially distanced training in a bid to meet the Premier League's mid-June date to resume the season.

Contact training is not permitted at this stage and corner flags, balls, cones, goalposts, playing surfaces and other equipment will be disinfected after each session.

Testing for the coronavirus has taken place at Premier League clubs over the last few days and will continue throughout the training period.

"Strict medical protocols of the highest standard will ensure everyone returns to training in the safest environment possible," a Premier League statement said.

"The health and well-being of all participants is the Premier League's priority, and the safe return to training is a step-by-step process.

"Full consultation will now continue with players, managers, clubs, the PFA and LMA as protocols for full-contact training are developed." The training protocols were presented to players and managers last week before being rubber-stamped during Monday's video conference call.

Other rules in phase one include players not travelling with anyone to or from training, while the use of public transport and team vehicles is banned.

Newcastle were one of the first top-flight teams to issue confirmation that players had been tested at their training ground.

The club said players would return on Tuesday, by which time all test results would be known.

Players will be asked to use an app on a daily basis to record any symptoms.

"It's been a really difficult time, but I hope with the news that phase one is about to start," Newcastle manager Steve Bruce said.

"I must stress that phase one looks as if it's as safe as it can be. I'm sure everyone will be delighted that we're trying to make that effort.

"In phase one we're allowed to train four to five people on one pitch, so basically a player has a quarter of a pitch to work within, so social distancing is not a problem. We'll train with eight to 10 at a time on two separate pitches.

"Everything is in place in the safety aspect. I've got no issues and I can tell the supporters the players and the staff are as safe as we possibly can be."

<h2>- 'Making good progress' -</h2>

==========================

The resumption of Germany's Bundesliga over the weekend has raised expectations that the Premier League can follow suit.

But some Premier League players remain concerned over returning to work while the virus is still uncontained, with Britain one of the countries worst hit by the crisis.

Speaking to Good Morning Britain on Monday, Watford captain Troy Deeney said: "Phase one is social distancing individual training with a coach. That's no problem, that's like going to the park.

"Phase two will be next week six days of training, three to six people training together with contact and then six days after that you're going into 11 versus 11 and you can't social distance with 11 verus 11.

"I would say 98 per cent (of players) are very much aware that phase one is very good, I would say 65-70 per cent of people are concerned with phase two. I'd say even higher after that."

With the Premier League suspended since March 13 because of the pandemic, the green light for training came just hours after Britain's Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said he was hopeful the top-flight could resume in June.

"I had some very constructive discussions on Thursday with the FA, the EFL (English Football League) and the Premier League," Dowden told Sky News.

"We are working hard with them to try and get it back, aiming for mid-June, but the number one test is public safety.

"If we can sort that out then we will look to resume by mid-June. We're making good progress."

Premier League clubs will return to training in small groups from Tuesday after the latest stage of "Project Restart" was approved on Monday. Clubs unanimously voted to allow players to start socially distanced training in a bid to meet the Premier League's mid-June date to resume the season.

Premier League clubs will return to training in small groups from Tuesday after the latest stage of "Project Restart" was approved on Monday. Clubs unanimously voted to allow players to start socially distanced training in a bid to meet the Premier League's mid-June date to resume the season. Contact training is not permitted at this stage and corner flags, balls, cones, goalposts, playing surfaces and other equipment will be disinfected after each session. Testing for the coronavirus has taken place at Premier League clubs over the last few days and will continue throughout the training period. "Strict medical protocols of the highest standard will ensure everyone returns to training in the safest environment possible," a Premier League statement said. "The health and well-being of all participants is the Premier League's priority, and the safe return to training is a step-by-step process. "Full consultation will now continue with players, managers, clubs, the PFA and LMA as protocols for full-contact training are developed." The training protocols were presented to players and managers last week before being rubber-stamped during Monday's video conference call. Other rules in phase one include players not travelling with anyone to or from training, while the use of public transport and team vehicles is banned. Newcastle were one of the first top-flight teams to issue confirmation that players had been tested at their training ground. The club said players would return on Tuesday, by which time all test results would be known. Players will be asked to use an app on a daily basis to record any symptoms. "It's been a really difficult time, but I hope with the news that phase one is about to start," Newcastle manager Steve Bruce said. "I must stress that phase one looks as if it's as safe as it can be. I'm sure everyone will be delighted that we're trying to make that effort. "In phase one we're allowed to train four to five people on one pitch, so basically a player has a quarter of a pitch to work within, so social distancing is not a problem. We'll train with eight to 10 at a time on two separate pitches. "Everything is in place in the safety aspect. I've got no issues and I can tell the supporters the players and the staff are as safe as we possibly can be." - 'Making good progress' - ========================== The resumption of Germany's Bundesliga over the weekend has raised expectations that the Premier League can follow suit. But some Premier League players remain concerned over returning to work while the virus is still uncontained, with Britain one of the countries worst hit by the crisis. Speaking to Good Morning Britain on Monday, Watford captain Troy Deeney said: "Phase one is social distancing individual training with a coach. That's no problem, that's like going to the park. "Phase two will be next week six days of training, three to six people training together with contact and then six days after that you're going into 11 versus 11 and you can't social distance with 11 verus 11. "I would say 98 per cent (of players) are very much aware that phase one is very good, I would say 65-70 per cent of people are concerned with phase two. I'd say even higher after that." With the Premier League suspended since March 13 because of the pandemic, the green light for training came just hours after Britain's Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said he was hopeful the top-flight could resume in June. "I had some very constructive discussions on Thursday with the FA, the EFL (English Football League) and the Premier League," Dowden told Sky News. "We are working hard with them to try and get it back, aiming for mid-June, but the number one test is public safety. "If we can sort that out then we will look to resume by mid-June. We're making good progress."

Premier League clubs agree group training return from Tuesday

The Sports Ministry on Monday gave its go ahead to the resumption of training in its complexes and stadia after the government permitted them to reopen in the fourth phase of the coronavirus-forced lockdown.

Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju said activities will be conducted in sports complexes and stadia strictly in accordance with Ministry of Home Affairs guidelines.

"I'm happy to inform sportspersons and all concerned that sports activities will be conducted in sports complexes and stadia strictly in accordance with MHA guidelines and that of the States in which they are situated," Rijiju tweeted.

"However, use of gyms and swimming pools are still prohibited," he added.

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I'm happy to inform sportspersons and all concerned that sports activities will be conducted in sports complexes and stadia strictly in accordance with MHA guidelines and that of the States in which they are situated. However, use of gyms &amp; swimming pools are still prohibited. <a href="https://t.co/zDHECy09iF">pic.twitter.com/zDHECy09iF</a>
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India has recorded over 90,000 COVID-19 cases so far with over 3000 deaths.

In the guidelines for the fourth lockdown, sport continued to be listed alongside the functions, gatherings and large congregations which were not allowed.

The only big-ticket event that was to happen in India at this time was the Indian Premier League, which was postponed indefinitely in April due to the health crisis.

The lockdown originally came into effect in mid-March and the Tokyo Olympics-bound elite athletes, who are based at SAI complexes in Patiala and Bengaluru, have been demanding resumption of training for the past couple of weeks.

The Olympics has been postponed to 2021 owing to the deadly pandemic.

The Sports Ministry on Monday gave its go ahead to the resumption of training in its complexes and stadia after the government permitted them to reopen in the fourth phase of the coronavirus-forced lockdown.

The Sports Ministry on Monday gave its go ahead to the resumption of training in its complexes and stadia after the government permitted them to reopen in the fourth phase of the coronavirus-forced lockdown. Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju said activities will be conducted in sports complexes and stadia strictly in accordance with Ministry of Home Affairs guidelines. "I'm happy to inform sportspersons and all concerned that sports activities will be conducted in sports complexes and stadia strictly in accordance with MHA guidelines and that of the States in which they are situated," Rijiju tweeted. "However, use of gyms and swimming pools are still prohibited," he added. I'm happy to inform sportspersons and all concerned that sports activities will be conducted in sports complexes and stadia strictly in accordance with MHA guidelines and that of the States in which they are situated. However, use of gyms & swimming pools are still prohibited. pic.twitter.com/zDHECy09iF — Kiren Rijiju (@KirenRijiju) May 18, 2020 × India has recorded over 90,000 COVID-19 cases so far with over 3000 deaths. In the guidelines for the fourth lockdown, sport continued to be listed alongside the functions, gatherings and large congregations which were not allowed. The only big-ticket event that was to happen in India at this time was the Indian Premier League, which was postponed indefinitely in April due to the health crisis. The lockdown originally came into effect in mid-March and the Tokyo Olympics-bound elite athletes, who are based at SAI complexes in Patiala and Bengaluru, have been demanding resumption of training for the past couple of weeks. The Olympics has been postponed to 2021 owing to the deadly pandemic.

Sports Ministry gives go ahead to resumption of training as per MHA guidelines

Celtic were crowned champions for a record-equalling ninth consecutive season as the Scottish Premiership campaign was declared over on Monday.

Neil Lennon's men were 13 points clear at the top of the table when the season was stopped due to the coronavirus pandemic in March with eight games remaining for the majority of clubs.

Second-placed Rangers had a game in hand to try and cut that gap and were due to face Celtic twice more before the end of the season.

A points-per-game formula for determining final league placings also sees bottom club Hearts relegated unless there is any progress in talks over league reconstruction.

"It is, of course, a real shame that we were not able to see out the league in front of our fans. However, no one can deny how deserved this title is," said Celtic chief executive Peter Lawwell.

"While we rightly celebrate this fantastic, deserved achievement we must take time to consider the wider circumstances we have all been experiencing and remember those who have helped us through these unique and challenging times with such bravery and selflessness.&nbsp;

"We dedicate this title to everyone who has cared for us and all those who have been affected by these times of challenge and difficulty."

The three leagues below the Premiership were ended over a month ago when clubs passed a controversial resolution that allowed the Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL) board to also bring the top flight to a halt if it deemed the games could no longer be played.

Last week Rangers failed to gain support of the 42 member clubs for an independent inquiry into how the vote on the resolution was passed.

<h2>- Prize money to be released -</h2>

Premiership clubs agreed on Friday that finishing the season was no longer a realistic option.

Scottish clubs will not be allowed to return to training until June 10 at the earliest.

The cost of testing and the fact a high percentage of players will be out of contract in May and June were also highlighted by clubs as reasons why making a return to finishing the campaign was impractical.

"The SPFL has today announced that, following consultation with all 12 top-flight clubs, the Board of the SPFL has determined that the 2019/20 Premiership has been concluded with immediate effect," the league said in a statement.

By calling the season to an end, the SPFL can now release a final instalment of prize money to clubs based on their league position.

"On Friday, Premiership clubs expressed their clear and unanimous view that there was no realistic prospect of completing the outstanding fixtures from season 2019/20," said SPFL chief executive Neil Doncaster.

"The SPFL board met this morning and in line with the express agreement of member clubs in April, the board determined that League season 2019/20 and the Premiership be brought to an end.

"This decision now enables us to pay out around £7 million ($8.5 million) in fees to help clubs stay afloat during this incredibly difficult time."

Leagues in France, Belgium and the Netherlands have also called their seasons to a premature end.

However, many more across Europe are hoping to follow the example of Germany's Bundesliga, which has already returned behind closed doors and with a series of strict safety measures in place to protect players and staff.

Celtic were crowned champions for a record-equalling ninth consecutive season as the Scottish Premiership campaign was declared over on Monday. Neil Lennon's men were 13 points clear at the top of the table when the season was stopped due to the coronavirus pandemic in March with eight games remaining for the majority of clubs.

Celtic were crowned champions for a record-equalling ninth consecutive season as the Scottish Premiership campaign was declared over on Monday. Neil Lennon's men were 13 points clear at the top of the table when the season was stopped due to the coronavirus pandemic in March with eight games remaining for the majority of clubs. Second-placed Rangers had a game in hand to try and cut that gap and were due to face Celtic twice more before the end of the season. A points-per-game formula for determining final league placings also sees bottom club Hearts relegated unless there is any progress in talks over league reconstruction. "It is, of course, a real shame that we were not able to see out the league in front of our fans. However, no one can deny how deserved this title is," said Celtic chief executive Peter Lawwell. "While we rightly celebrate this fantastic, deserved achievement we must take time to consider the wider circumstances we have all been experiencing and remember those who have helped us through these unique and challenging times with such bravery and selflessness. "We dedicate this title to everyone who has cared for us and all those who have been affected by these times of challenge and difficulty." The three leagues below the Premiership were ended over a month ago when clubs passed a controversial resolution that allowed the Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL) board to also bring the top flight to a halt if it deemed the games could no longer be played. Last week Rangers failed to gain support of the 42 member clubs for an independent inquiry into how the vote on the resolution was passed. - Prize money to be released - Premiership clubs agreed on Friday that finishing the season was no longer a realistic option. Scottish clubs will not be allowed to return to training until June 10 at the earliest. The cost of testing and the fact a high percentage of players will be out of contract in May and June were also highlighted by clubs as reasons why making a return to finishing the campaign was impractical. "The SPFL has today announced that, following consultation with all 12 top-flight clubs, the Board of the SPFL has determined that the 2019/20 Premiership has been concluded with immediate effect," the league said in a statement. By calling the season to an end, the SPFL can now release a final instalment of prize money to clubs based on their league position. "On Friday, Premiership clubs expressed their clear and unanimous view that there was no realistic prospect of completing the outstanding fixtures from season 2019/20," said SPFL chief executive Neil Doncaster. "The SPFL board met this morning and in line with the express agreement of member clubs in April, the board determined that League season 2019/20 and the Premiership be brought to an end. "This decision now enables us to pay out around £7 million ($8.5 million) in fees to help clubs stay afloat during this incredibly difficult time." Leagues in France, Belgium and the Netherlands have also called their seasons to a premature end. However, many more across Europe are hoping to follow the example of Germany's Bundesliga, which has already returned behind closed doors and with a series of strict safety measures in place to protect players and staff.

Celtic declared champions as Scottish season ends

Chelsea forward Callum Hudson-Odoi was arrested on suspicion of rape on Sunday morning after a model, whom he invited to his home, was taken to hospital. Metropolitan Police officers reached the place of the incident at Hudson-Odoi’s apartment after being called by the woman with an ambulance also arriving at the scene soon.

The 19-year-old Hudson-Odoi was arrested by officers on suspicion of rape before being taken into police custody and then released on bail, as per a report in The Sun.&nbsp;

A police spokesman said: 'Police and London Ambulance Service were called at 03:53hrs on Sunday, 17 May to a report of an unwell woman.

'When emergency services attended, a woman reported that she was raped. She was taken to hospital.

'A man was arrested at the scene on suspicion of rape. He was released from custody and bailed to return on a date in mid-June.' 
Police returned to Hudson-Odoi’s house later on Sunday in a bid to continue their investigations into the matter.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-foundation-to-organise-a-match-to-help-the-world-299440" hreflang="en">FIFA Foundation to organise a match 'to help the world'</a>

As per the report, the young Chelsea forward connected with the woman online before inviting to his home. He had sent a vehicle to pick her up. However, the forward has been released on bail to return on a date in mid-June.

Hudson-Odoi was one of the first footballers to have been tested positive for COVID-19 in March. He was scheduled to return to group training by the end of the week given his tests come out perfectly fine.

'I had the virus which has cleared now. I fully feel good, I feel fit, so I am feeling back to myself so it is all good,' Hudson-Odoi said at the start of April.

'I had it [the illness] three weeks ago now I think, on a Monday when I felt a bit hot and I was thinking this is a bit unusual, why do I feel this hot. The next day I was feeling back to normal.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/german-league-without-fans-like-old-mans-football-says-mueller-299362" hreflang="en">German league without fans like "old man's football", says Mueller</a>

'I thought it was just a minor temperature thing, but obviously it wasn't. I said to myself this wasn't actually that bad, the symptoms, and I said to myself 'I feel good, I feel better'.

'Everyone has been asking me how I have been which has been class from them. They have been showing me support and saying 'Cal, get well soon, I hope you are okay now'.

'It has been very warming and a good feeling to know you have got your team-mates behind you, backing you and making sure you are feeling well and encouraging you.'&nbsp;

Hudson-Odoi signed a contract extension with Chelsea last season and wrapped up a reportedly whopping £180,000 per week deal with the Blues.

Chelsea forward Callum Hudson-Odoi was arrested on suspicion of rape on Sunday morning after a model, whom he invited to his home, was taken to hospital. Metropolitan Police officers reached the place of the incident at Hudson-Odoi’s apartment after being called by the woman with an ambulance also arriving at the scene soon.

Chelsea forward Callum Hudson-Odoi was arrested on suspicion of rape on Sunday morning after a model, whom he invited to his home, was taken to hospital. Metropolitan Police officers reached the place of the incident at Hudson-Odoi’s apartment after being called by the woman with an ambulance also arriving at the scene soon. The 19-year-old Hudson-Odoi was arrested by officers on suspicion of rape before being taken into police custody and then released on bail, as per a report in The Sun. A police spokesman said: 'Police and London Ambulance Service were called at 03:53hrs on Sunday, 17 May to a report of an unwell woman. 'When emergency services attended, a woman reported that she was raped. She was taken to hospital. 'A man was arrested at the scene on suspicion of rape. He was released from custody and bailed to return on a date in mid-June.' Police returned to Hudson-Odoi’s house later on Sunday in a bid to continue their investigations into the matter. ALSO READ: FIFA Foundation to organise a match 'to help the world' As per the report, the young Chelsea forward connected with the woman online before inviting to his home. He had sent a vehicle to pick her up. However, the forward has been released on bail to return on a date in mid-June. Hudson-Odoi was one of the first footballers to have been tested positive for COVID-19 in March. He was scheduled to return to group training by the end of the week given his tests come out perfectly fine. 'I had the virus which has cleared now. I fully feel good, I feel fit, so I am feeling back to myself so it is all good,' Hudson-Odoi said at the start of April. 'I had it [the illness] three weeks ago now I think, on a Monday when I felt a bit hot and I was thinking this is a bit unusual, why do I feel this hot. The next day I was feeling back to normal. ALSO READ: German league without fans like "old man's football", says Mueller 'I thought it was just a minor temperature thing, but obviously it wasn't. I said to myself this wasn't actually that bad, the symptoms, and I said to myself 'I feel good, I feel better'. 'Everyone has been asking me how I have been which has been class from them. They have been showing me support and saying 'Cal, get well soon, I hope you are okay now'. 'It has been very warming and a good feeling to know you have got your team-mates behind you, backing you and making sure you are feeling well and encouraging you.' Hudson-Odoi signed a contract extension with Chelsea last season and wrapped up a reportedly whopping £180,000 per week deal with the Blues.

Chelsea's Callum Hudson-Odoi, arrested on suspicion of rape, released on bail

Indian sports was handed a major boost on Sunday after the Indian government allowed stadiums and sporting complexes to open in its directives for lockdown 4.0. With the latest directives, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has been alerted in its future planning for the resumption of cricket in India.&nbsp;

“Sports complexes and stadia will be permitted to open; however, spectators will not be allowed,” the union home ministry said in its statement on the fresh rules.&nbsp;

While the ban on domestic and international flight is still active, a possibility of a window opening up for Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 depends on the future of T20 World Cup, scheduled to be hosted by Australia in October-November.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/yuvraj-raina-dhawan-destroy-pakistans-shahid-afridi-over-controversial-remarks-on-pm-modi-and-kashmir-299371" hreflang="en">Yuvraj, Raina, Dhawan destroy Pakistan's Shahid Afridi over controversial remarks on PM Modi and Kashmir</a>

However, the BCCI is not looking too far and is focused on resuming training. “We can’t be looking at staging any competition, let alone IPL when inter-state travel is not permitted. Also, international travel is restricted. But with stadiums being opened, we will now work out modalities with our state units as to which places players can train and when,” BCCI treasurer Arun Dhumal said as quoted by a leading daily.

The BCCI is looking to coordinate with state associations who will communicate with state governments in a bid to allow players, who are in red zones, to train.

Chennai Super Kings CEO, Kasi Viswanathan, said that players and franchises have to deal with playing matches behind closed doors while stating that the government’s latest directive is a big positive for Indian sports.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mha-allows-sports-complexes-stadia-to-open-in-lockdown-4-but-no-entry-for-spectators-299272" hreflang="en">MHA allows sports complexes, stadia to open in Lockdown 4 but no entry for spectators</a>

“If that is the final thing, that’s what we will have to do. At this point, we can’t expect crowds to come in at all. Let us see how it works out,” he said as quoted by the same news portal. “It’s a big positive (government order), (but) we will have to wait and see when people are allowed to come out. If you are not allowed to travel how will you play? That’s the most important thing. We still have restrictions in containment zones.

“They have opened the stadiums, now people (players, support staff, officials) have to come out. Players have to come and practice… we will have to see how it works out. Too early, let’s wait for a week or 10 days, we will know. First they will have to maintain the grounds; we don’t know in what shape the wickets and stadiums are. Within a week we will know what will happen,” Viswanathan added.

However, conducting IPL 2020 is still a stretched idea as a lot depends on how the situation surrounding COVID-19 pandemic will work out in the next month or so. An alternate window for IPL 2020 also depends on the fate of T20 World Cup, which could be postponed given the international travel restrictions in the majority of countries. 
&nbsp;

Indian sports was handed a major boost on Sunday after the Indian government allowed stadiums and sporting complexes to open in its directives for lockdown 4.0. With the latest directives, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has been alerted in its future planning for the resumption of cricket in India.

Indian sports was handed a major boost on Sunday after the Indian government allowed stadiums and sporting complexes to open in its directives for lockdown 4.0. With the latest directives, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has been alerted in its future planning for the resumption of cricket in India. “Sports complexes and stadia will be permitted to open; however, spectators will not be allowed,” the union home ministry said in its statement on the fresh rules. While the ban on domestic and international flight is still active, a possibility of a window opening up for Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 depends on the future of T20 World Cup, scheduled to be hosted by Australia in October-November. ALSO READ: Yuvraj, Raina, Dhawan destroy Pakistan's Shahid Afridi over controversial remarks on PM Modi and Kashmir However, the BCCI is not looking too far and is focused on resuming training. “We can’t be looking at staging any competition, let alone IPL when inter-state travel is not permitted. Also, international travel is restricted. But with stadiums being opened, we will now work out modalities with our state units as to which places players can train and when,” BCCI treasurer Arun Dhumal said as quoted by a leading daily. The BCCI is looking to coordinate with state associations who will communicate with state governments in a bid to allow players, who are in red zones, to train. Chennai Super Kings CEO, Kasi Viswanathan, said that players and franchises have to deal with playing matches behind closed doors while stating that the government’s latest directive is a big positive for Indian sports. ALSO READ: MHA allows sports complexes, stadia to open in Lockdown 4 but no entry for spectators “If that is the final thing, that’s what we will have to do. At this point, we can’t expect crowds to come in at all. Let us see how it works out,” he said as quoted by the same news portal. “It’s a big positive (government order), (but) we will have to wait and see when people are allowed to come out. If you are not allowed to travel how will you play? That’s the most important thing. We still have restrictions in containment zones. “They have opened the stadiums, now people (players, support staff, officials) have to come out. Players have to come and practice… we will have to see how it works out. Too early, let’s wait for a week or 10 days, we will know. First they will have to maintain the grounds; we don’t know in what shape the wickets and stadiums are. Within a week we will know what will happen,” Viswanathan added. However, conducting IPL 2020 is still a stretched idea as a lot depends on how the situation surrounding COVID-19 pandemic will work out in the next month or so. An alternate window for IPL 2020 also depends on the fate of T20 World Cup, which could be postponed given the international travel restrictions in the majority of countries.

IPL hopes rise as Indian government allows re-opening of stadiums

The FIFA Foundation will organise its first-ever official football match to raise funds for Access to COVID-19 Tools (ACT), a global collaboration to accelerate the development, production and equitable global access to new coronavirus essential health technologies, including diagnostics, therapeutics and vaccines. 
&nbsp; 
“It is our responsibility to demonstrate solidarity and continue to do everything we can to participate and support the efforts in the combat against the pandemic,” said FIFA President Gianni Infantino. “We have been active in raising awareness via several other campaigns, and FIFA has also contributed financially to this cause, but now we commit ourselves to organise this global fundraising event when the health situation permits, even if this is only in some months’ time.”

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The FIFA Foundation intends to take the opportunity of hosting the match to widen the reach of football beyond the traditional sporting network and into wider society to help support efforts at tackling the coronavirus. &nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
“The FIFA Foundation will engage not only with the worldwide football community, but also other stakeholders from non-governmental organisations to other foundations, and from the private sector to governments, in order to ensure this initiative is a significant help to those who are at the forefront of research in combatting COVID-19,” said FIFA Foundation Executive Chairman Mauricio Macri.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/german-league-without-fans-like-old-mans-football-says-mueller-299362" hreflang="en">German league without fans like "old man's football", says Mueller</a>

“Our focus is to develop and support a society that can provide a balance in terms of prevention from such diseases and the future life, creating an environment where sustainability can truly prosper.”

“Further details of this unique event, including the location, date, participants and format will be announced by the FIFA Foundation in due course,” added FIFA Foundation CEO Youri Djorkaeff. “Various scenarios and plans are currently under consideration, all of which are in line with health and other relevant guidelines from respective governments and international organisations.” 
&nbsp;

<o:p></o:p>

The FIFA Foundation will organise its first-ever official football match to raise funds for Access to COVID-19 Tools (ACT), a global collaboration to accelerate the development, production and equitable global access to new coronavirus essential health technologies, including diagnostics, therapeutics and vaccines.

The FIFA Foundation will organise its first-ever official football match to raise funds for Access to COVID-19 Tools (ACT), a global collaboration to accelerate the development, production and equitable global access to new coronavirus essential health technologies, including diagnostics, therapeutics and vaccines. “It is our responsibility to demonstrate solidarity and continue to do everything we can to participate and support the efforts in the combat against the pandemic,” said FIFA President Gianni Infantino. “We have been active in raising awareness via several other campaigns, and FIFA has also contributed financially to this cause, but now we commit ourselves to organise this global fundraising event when the health situation permits, even if this is only in some months’ time.” ALSO READ: South Korea's FC Seoul apologises for using sex dolls to fill empty stands in home stadium The FIFA Foundation intends to take the opportunity of hosting the match to widen the reach of football beyond the traditional sporting network and into wider society to help support efforts at tackling the coronavirus. “The FIFA Foundation will engage not only with the worldwide football community, but also other stakeholders from non-governmental organisations to other foundations, and from the private sector to governments, in order to ensure this initiative is a significant help to those who are at the forefront of research in combatting COVID-19,” said FIFA Foundation Executive Chairman Mauricio Macri. ALSO READ: German league without fans like "old man's football", says Mueller “Our focus is to develop and support a society that can provide a balance in terms of prevention from such diseases and the future life, creating an environment where sustainability can truly prosper.” “Further details of this unique event, including the location, date, participants and format will be announced by the FIFA Foundation in due course,” added FIFA Foundation CEO Youri Djorkaeff. “Various scenarios and plans are currently under consideration, all of which are in line with health and other relevant guidelines from respective governments and international organisations.”

FIFA Foundation to organise a match 'to help the world'

Football has finally returned to South Korea after a prolonged break due to COVID-19 pandemic. While the stadium&nbsp;was empty, South Korean football club FC Seoul tried filling their home ground with mannequins. But the move took a drastic turn after it was noticed that the mannequins are actually sex dolls.&nbsp;

Seoul FC has since apologized as they stated they have been a victim of a misunderstanding and mix-up as they stated that the supplier had made an assurance that the dolls were not intended for sexual use.

“We would like to apologise to the fans,” FC Seoul said in a statement on Instagram. “We are deeply sorry.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/german-league-without-fans-like-old-mans-football-says-mueller-299362" hreflang="en">German league without fans like "old man's football", says Mueller</a>

It added: “Our intention was to do something light-hearted in these difficult times. We will think hard about what we need to do to ensure that something like this never happens again.”

Seoul FC locked horns with Gwangju FC as cardboard cut-outs and mannequins replaced fans in the stand with music in the stadium replacing the atmosphere created by the fans.&nbsp;

Some on social media platforms pointed out that the dolls were carrying the name of live streamer BJ Chaero, who is reportedly the physical inspiration behind doll’s design, as per the Koreaboo website.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bundesliga-bayern-munich-hit-form-as-lewandowski-pavard-score-in-2-0-win-over-union-berlin-299297" hreflang="en">Bundesliga: Bayern Munich hit form as Lewandowski, Pavard score in 2-0 win over Union Berlin</a>

“There must have been a countless number of people involved in getting that approved, shipped, dressed, and seated,” Koreaboo quoted one as saying. “In that process, no one thought to question the visuals of these mannequins?”

Images from the stadium showed around 10 dolls spaced out in seats in front of cut-outs of team players. But social media users kept on pointing that something was wrong.&nbsp;

One fan who spotted the blunder before the club said sorry wrote: "FC Seoul put these mannequin supporters in stands which was also tried by Dinamo Brest.

Another posted: "Seriously, though. Imagine the thought process involved in filling your stadium with female sex dolls in football kits and thinking it's a good idea. Nice one, @FCSeoul."

Earlier in May, South Korea’s K-League became the first football league to hold matches with the first match post-resumption gaining traction from a worldwide audience.

Football has finally returned to South Korea after a prolonged break due to COVID-19 pandemic. While the stadium was empty, South Korean football club FC Seoul tried filling their home ground with mannequins.

Football has finally returned to South Korea after a prolonged break due to COVID-19 pandemic. While the stadium was empty, South Korean football club FC Seoul tried filling their home ground with mannequins. But the move took a drastic turn after it was noticed that the mannequins are actually sex dolls. Seoul FC has since apologized as they stated they have been a victim of a misunderstanding and mix-up as they stated that the supplier had made an assurance that the dolls were not intended for sexual use. “We would like to apologise to the fans,” FC Seoul said in a statement on Instagram. “We are deeply sorry.” ALSO READ: German league without fans like "old man's football", says Mueller It added: “Our intention was to do something light-hearted in these difficult times. We will think hard about what we need to do to ensure that something like this never happens again.” Seoul FC locked horns with Gwangju FC as cardboard cut-outs and mannequins replaced fans in the stand with music in the stadium replacing the atmosphere created by the fans. Some on social media platforms pointed out that the dolls were carrying the name of live streamer BJ Chaero, who is reportedly the physical inspiration behind doll’s design, as per the Koreaboo website. ALSO READ: Bundesliga: Bayern Munich hit form as Lewandowski, Pavard score in 2-0 win over Union Berlin “There must have been a countless number of people involved in getting that approved, shipped, dressed, and seated,” Koreaboo quoted one as saying. “In that process, no one thought to question the visuals of these mannequins?” Images from the stadium showed around 10 dolls spaced out in seats in front of cut-outs of team players. But social media users kept on pointing that something was wrong. One fan who spotted the blunder before the club said sorry wrote: "FC Seoul put these mannequin supporters in stands which was also tried by Dinamo Brest. Another posted: "Seriously, though. Imagine the thought process involved in filling your stadium with female sex dolls in football kits and thinking it's a good idea. Nice one, @FCSeoul." Earlier in May, South Korea’s K-League became the first football league to hold matches with the first match post-resumption gaining traction from a worldwide audience.

South Korea's FC Seoul apologises for using sex dolls to fill empty stands in home stadium

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