Manchester City will face a High Court trial over damages claims from eight men who were sexually abused by paedophile football coach Barry Bennell.

Bennell's abuse took place while he is said to have been working for City as a scout and coach of their "feeder teams", which featured players too young to be signed as schoolboys.

The eight men, who are now in their late 40s or early 50s, are all claiming damages against the Premier League club for the "very serious psychiatric injuries" they suffered as a result of the abuse.

Bennell is currently serving a 30-year jail term for multiple offences against 12 boys he coached, some of whom are bringing the High Court action, between 1979 and 1991.

Bennell, who is thought not to have received an official salary from City, had two three-year spells within the club's youth network between 1976 and 1984.

He then went on to work as Crewe's youth team coach for seven years.

The claimants argue that, while Bennell was not officially on City's "books", the club is still vicariously liable for the abuse.

All but one of the eight are claiming damages for "the loss of a chance to pursue a career as a footballer".

Two of the men are also bringing claims against Crewe, where Bennell was employed as a youth coach after leaving City.

Both City and Crewe deny that they are vicariously liable for the abuse committed.

City and Crewe also argue that the claims have been brought too late to be heard by the court, and dispute the extent to which the abuse is said to have caused the claimants financial or other losses.

Mrs Justice Lambert ordered that all eight claims be heard together at an eight-week trial which is provisionally listed to start in October 2021.

Manchester City will face a High Court trial over damages claims from eight men who were sexually abused by paedophile football coach Barry Bennell. Bennell's abuse took place while he is said to have been working for City as a scout and coach of their "feeder teams", which featured players too young to be signed as schoolboys.

Manchester City will face a High Court trial over damages claims from eight men who were sexually abused by paedophile football coach Barry Bennell. Bennell's abuse took place while he is said to have been working for City as a scout and coach of their "feeder teams", which featured players too young to be signed as schoolboys. The eight men, who are now in their late 40s or early 50s, are all claiming damages against the Premier League club for the "very serious psychiatric injuries" they suffered as a result of the abuse. Bennell is currently serving a 30-year jail term for multiple offences against 12 boys he coached, some of whom are bringing the High Court action, between 1979 and 1991. Bennell, who is thought not to have received an official salary from City, had two three-year spells within the club's youth network between 1976 and 1984. He then went on to work as Crewe's youth team coach for seven years. The claimants argue that, while Bennell was not officially on City's "books", the club is still vicariously liable for the abuse. All but one of the eight are claiming damages for "the loss of a chance to pursue a career as a footballer". Two of the men are also bringing claims against Crewe, where Bennell was employed as a youth coach after leaving City. Both City and Crewe deny that they are vicariously liable for the abuse committed. City and Crewe also argue that the claims have been brought too late to be heard by the court, and dispute the extent to which the abuse is said to have caused the claimants financial or other losses. Mrs Justice Lambert ordered that all eight claims be heard together at an eight-week trial which is provisionally listed to start in October 2021.

Man City face damages claim in High Court over Bennell abuse

Rafael Nadal has said he views the rest of this year as "practically lost" for tennis and would even be relieved if the sport returned as normal at the start of 2021.

The men's and women's tours have been stopped due to the coronavirus pandemic, with Wimbledon cancelled for the first time since World War II and the French Open postponed until the end of September.&nbsp;

But Nadal, who has won 12 of his 19 grand slam titles at Roland Garros, believes the chances of tennis restarting before the end of this year are slim.&nbsp;

"I hope to play as soon as possible but if I think about it logically, we travel every week from one place to another, we are in contact with hotels, airports, all in different places," Nadal said in an interview with Spanish newspaper ABC on Tuesday.&nbsp;

"If you gave me the ability to guarantee that in January 2021, a normal season like before will begin, I would sign for that now with my eyes closed."

In a separate interview with El Pais, Nadal said: "I'm more looking to the Australian Open than what happens later this year. I see 2020 as practically lost."&nbsp;

Nadal at 33 is in the latter stages of his illustrious career and the hiatus came just as he looked to be closing in on the 20 major titles won by the 38-year-old Roger Federer.&nbsp;

If tennis returns this summer, Nadal could choose to skip the US Open and save himself for the French, given there would be just a week between the two.&nbsp;

"It's all hypothetical because I don't think it will be like that," said Nadal to ABC. "My feeling, and I say it with sadness and I won't lie to you, is that we are losing a year of our lives.&nbsp;

"And at 33 or 34 years old that is much more valuable than at 20 when you have many more years ahead, even if it's still a year.&nbsp;

"Frankly, I think that will not happen. From the US Open to Roland Garros with a week in between, I just don't think we can play."&nbsp;

Rafael Nadal has said he views the rest of this year as "practically lost" for tennis and would even be relieved if the sport returned as normal at the start of 2021.

Rafael Nadal has said he views the rest of this year as "practically lost" for tennis and would even be relieved if the sport returned as normal at the start of 2021. The men's and women's tours have been stopped due to the coronavirus pandemic, with Wimbledon cancelled for the first time since World War II and the French Open postponed until the end of September. But Nadal, who has won 12 of his 19 grand slam titles at Roland Garros, believes the chances of tennis restarting before the end of this year are slim. "I hope to play as soon as possible but if I think about it logically, we travel every week from one place to another, we are in contact with hotels, airports, all in different places," Nadal said in an interview with Spanish newspaper ABC on Tuesday. "If you gave me the ability to guarantee that in January 2021, a normal season like before will begin, I would sign for that now with my eyes closed." In a separate interview with El Pais, Nadal said: "I'm more looking to the Australian Open than what happens later this year. I see 2020 as practically lost." Nadal at 33 is in the latter stages of his illustrious career and the hiatus came just as he looked to be closing in on the 20 major titles won by the 38-year-old Roger Federer. If tennis returns this summer, Nadal could choose to skip the US Open and save himself for the French, given there would be just a week between the two. "It's all hypothetical because I don't think it will be like that," said Nadal to ABC. "My feeling, and I say it with sadness and I won't lie to you, is that we are losing a year of our lives. "And at 33 or 34 years old that is much more valuable than at 20 when you have many more years ahead, even if it's still a year. "Frankly, I think that will not happen. From the US Open to Roland Garros with a week in between, I just don't think we can play."

Nadal: 'I see 2020 as practically lost' for tennis

Megan Rapinoe and Alex Morgan said the US women's national team will appeal against defeat in their equal pay lawsuit on Monday, describing the &nbsp;judge's ruling in the case as "shocking".

In a widely unexpected decision on Friday, Judge Gary Klausner rejected the US women's claim of pay discrimination, finding in favour of the United States Soccer Federation.

Although the judge said claims of gender discrimination in areas such as travel, housing and medical support could proceed to trial, the equal pay part of the lawsuit -- the central plank of the women's case -- had been dismissed.

Speaking on ABC television's Good Morning America program on Monday, Rapinoe and Morgan voiced dismay at the outcome but pledged to fight on.

"We were just shocked," Morgan said. "This decision was out of left field for us. I think for both sides it was very unexpected. We will definitely be appealing and moving forward.&nbsp;

"If anyone knows anything about the heart of this team, we are fighters and we will continue to fight together for this."

In dismissing the equal pay claim, Judge Klausner said the case was unwarranted because there was evidence the women had previously turned down an offer in the Collective Bargaining Agreement negotiations to be paid along the lines of the US men's team.

However Rapinoe challenged that part of the judge's decision.

"The men's contract was never offered to us and certainly not the same amount of money," Rapinoe said.

"I think so many women can understand what this feeling is of going into a negotiation, knowing equal pay is not on the table, knowing anywhere close to your male counterparts is not even on the table."

Rapinoe also said the fact that the women had earned more than the US men during the period where pay discrimination was alleged was also misleading.

In the period in question, the women's team played 111 games and earned $24.5 million. The men played 87 games and made $18.5 million. The men's figure however would likely have been substantially higher had they qualified for the 2018 World Cup.&nbsp;

"If we were under the men’s contract, we would be making three times more," Rapinoe said.&nbsp;

"So you can look at the total compensation. In that time that we've made just a little bit more, we've won two World Cups and we've won just about every single game that we've played in.&nbsp;

"So the rate of pay is just so different. It's just so frustrating."

The US women, who clinched back-to-back World Cup wins with victory at last year's finals in France, had been seeking back pay of $66 million under the US Equal Pay Act.

Megan Rapinoe and Alex Morgan said the US women's national team will appeal against defeat in their equal pay lawsuit on Monday, describing the judge's ruling in the case as "shocking".

Megan Rapinoe and Alex Morgan said the US women's national team will appeal against defeat in their equal pay lawsuit on Monday, describing the judge's ruling in the case as "shocking". In a widely unexpected decision on Friday, Judge Gary Klausner rejected the US women's claim of pay discrimination, finding in favour of the United States Soccer Federation. Although the judge said claims of gender discrimination in areas such as travel, housing and medical support could proceed to trial, the equal pay part of the lawsuit -- the central plank of the women's case -- had been dismissed. Speaking on ABC television's Good Morning America program on Monday, Rapinoe and Morgan voiced dismay at the outcome but pledged to fight on. "We were just shocked," Morgan said. "This decision was out of left field for us. I think for both sides it was very unexpected. We will definitely be appealing and moving forward. "If anyone knows anything about the heart of this team, we are fighters and we will continue to fight together for this." In dismissing the equal pay claim, Judge Klausner said the case was unwarranted because there was evidence the women had previously turned down an offer in the Collective Bargaining Agreement negotiations to be paid along the lines of the US men's team. However Rapinoe challenged that part of the judge's decision. "The men's contract was never offered to us and certainly not the same amount of money," Rapinoe said. "I think so many women can understand what this feeling is of going into a negotiation, knowing equal pay is not on the table, knowing anywhere close to your male counterparts is not even on the table." Rapinoe also said the fact that the women had earned more than the US men during the period where pay discrimination was alleged was also misleading. In the period in question, the women's team played 111 games and earned $24.5 million. The men played 87 games and made $18.5 million. The men's figure however would likely have been substantially higher had they qualified for the 2018 World Cup. "If we were under the men’s contract, we would be making three times more," Rapinoe said. "So you can look at the total compensation. In that time that we've made just a little bit more, we've won two World Cups and we've won just about every single game that we've played in. "So the rate of pay is just so different. It's just so frustrating." The US women, who clinched back-to-back World Cup wins with victory at last year's finals in France, had been seeking back pay of $66 million under the US Equal Pay Act.

'Shocked' US women stars to appeal equal pay defeat

Welsh international Aaron Ramsey was the first Juventus player to return to individual training at the team's sports centre in Turin on Tuesday as Cristiano Ronaldo began two weeks' quarantine after returning to Italy.

Ronaldo flew back to northern Italy by private jet on Monday night after almost two months in coronavirus lockdown in his native Portugal.

Midfielder Ramsey joined Juventus this season after 11 years with Arsenal, and scored his fourth goal in their last game against Inter Milan behind closed doors before the championship was suspended on March 10.

Champions Juventus are leading Serie A, one point ahead of Lazio, as they target a ninth consecutive Scudetto.

Captain Giorgio Chiellini followed shortly after Ramsey, with fellow Italy defender Leonardo Bonucci, wearing a black face mask, arriving later in the afternoon.

Italy's interior ministry has given the go-ahead for players to return to club training facilities two weeks ahead of schedule, offering a glimmer of hope that the 2019-20 season might yet be saved.

But sports minister Vincenzo Spadafora warned that training in groups must wait until May 18, and it remains uncertain whether matches can restart as the country battles a pandemic which has killed over 29,000.

"A realistic prediction can be made in mid-May," Spadafora said in an interview with Corriere della Sera on Tuesday, denying that he wanted to call a halt to the season.&nbsp;

"It would be surreal for a sports minister to demonise football," he said.

"The majority of Italians do not welcome the resumption of the championship.&nbsp;

"But I'm not looking at polls at the moment. Football is an important world in this country, I know it well compared to those who want to give a different message.

"I hope to start again, but the government will decide. We will rely on scientific elements, which are not available today.

"There is no opposition of mine, but the desire to evaluate the restart only if the health of the people within the team group is safeguarded.

"If the government is forced, I hope not, to establish that there are no conditions (to resume), my effort will be twofold -- limit the financial damage to clubs and support the whole world of sport.

"Between ordinary and extraordinary resources, we will invest about one billion euros for the sector as a whole."&nbsp;

Welsh international Aaron Ramsey was the first Juventus player to return to individual training at the team's sports centre in Turin on Tuesday as Cristiano Ronaldo began two weeks' quarantine after returning to Italy.

Welsh international Aaron Ramsey was the first Juventus player to return to individual training at the team's sports centre in Turin on Tuesday as Cristiano Ronaldo began two weeks' quarantine after returning to Italy. Ronaldo flew back to northern Italy by private jet on Monday night after almost two months in coronavirus lockdown in his native Portugal. Midfielder Ramsey joined Juventus this season after 11 years with Arsenal, and scored his fourth goal in their last game against Inter Milan behind closed doors before the championship was suspended on March 10. Champions Juventus are leading Serie A, one point ahead of Lazio, as they target a ninth consecutive Scudetto. Captain Giorgio Chiellini followed shortly after Ramsey, with fellow Italy defender Leonardo Bonucci, wearing a black face mask, arriving later in the afternoon. Italy's interior ministry has given the go-ahead for players to return to club training facilities two weeks ahead of schedule, offering a glimmer of hope that the 2019-20 season might yet be saved. But sports minister Vincenzo Spadafora warned that training in groups must wait until May 18, and it remains uncertain whether matches can restart as the country battles a pandemic which has killed over 29,000. "A realistic prediction can be made in mid-May," Spadafora said in an interview with Corriere della Sera on Tuesday, denying that he wanted to call a halt to the season. "It would be surreal for a sports minister to demonise football," he said. "The majority of Italians do not welcome the resumption of the championship. "But I'm not looking at polls at the moment. Football is an important world in this country, I know it well compared to those who want to give a different message. "I hope to start again, but the government will decide. We will rely on scientific elements, which are not available today. "There is no opposition of mine, but the desire to evaluate the restart only if the health of the people within the team group is safeguarded. "If the government is forced, I hope not, to establish that there are no conditions (to resume), my effort will be twofold -- limit the financial damage to clubs and support the whole world of sport. "Between ordinary and extraordinary resources, we will invest about one billion euros for the sector as a whole."

Ramsey first back at Juve training, Ronaldo in quarantine

Former India cricketer and father of Yuvraj Singh, Yograj Singh has time and time again emphasized on how his son was kicked out from the Indian team. Now, Yograj has claimed that both MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli back-stabbed Yuvraj during his playing days which resulted in the southpaw falling down in the pecking order. Yograj further blamed the selectors for ‘betraying’ Yuvraj.&nbsp;

Yograj revealed that he had met Indian head coach Ravi Shastri recently while adding that he told the former Indian all-rounder that all great players should get a send-off on the basis of their service to the country.

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<h2>"Many have backstabbed him and it hurts"</h2>

“Along with these two, I would say that even the selectors betrayed him. I had met Ravi recently. He asked me for a photograph. I called him and pointed out that all great players should get a send-off based on their performances. When Dhoni, Kohli or Rohit retire, I would request the board to give them a good send-off as they have done so much for Indian cricket. Many have backstabbed him and it hurts,” Yograj told a news portal. &nbsp;

Yograj went on to blame former Indian selector Sarandeep Singh while taking a sly dig at the BCCI for appointing less-experienced selectors. Yograj claimed that Sarandeep used to go to meetings and say Yuvraj should be dropped and added that everyone was worried about Yuvraj’s good performances on the pitch.

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“Indian selector Sharandeep Singh, he used to go to meetings and say that Yuvraj should be dropped. Such people are appointed as selectors who do not know ABC of cricket. What do you expect from them? It hurts when someone backstabs you. Everybody was worried about what would happen to them if Yuvraj continues to perform,” Yograj added.

Yuvraj, one of the finest white-ball cricketers ever and orchestrator of India’s World Cup wins in 2007 and 2011, hung his boots on June 10, 2019. Fans and former cricketers were left flabbergasted on the fact that the southpaw didn’t get a deserved farewell following his service for the team and country.

Former India cricketer and father of Yuvraj Singh, Yograj Singh has time and time again emphasized on how his son was kicked out from the Indian team. Now, Yograj has claimed that both MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli back-stabbed Yuvraj during his playing days which resulted in the southpaw falling down in the pecking order.

Former India cricketer and father of Yuvraj Singh, Yograj Singh has time and time again emphasized on how his son was kicked out from the Indian team. Now, Yograj has claimed that both MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli back-stabbed Yuvraj during his playing days which resulted in the southpaw falling down in the pecking order. Yograj further blamed the selectors for ‘betraying’ Yuvraj. Yograj revealed that he had met Indian head coach Ravi Shastri recently while adding that he told the former Indian all-rounder that all great players should get a send-off on the basis of their service to the country. ALSO READ: Solution for saliva conundrum? Kookaburra’s wax applicator to allow bowlers shine ball artificially "Many have backstabbed him and it hurts" “Along with these two, I would say that even the selectors betrayed him. I had met Ravi recently. He asked me for a photograph. I called him and pointed out that all great players should get a send-off based on their performances. When Dhoni, Kohli or Rohit retire, I would request the board to give them a good send-off as they have done so much for Indian cricket. Many have backstabbed him and it hurts,” Yograj told a news portal. Yograj went on to blame former Indian selector Sarandeep Singh while taking a sly dig at the BCCI for appointing less-experienced selectors. Yograj claimed that Sarandeep used to go to meetings and say Yuvraj should be dropped and added that everyone was worried about Yuvraj’s good performances on the pitch. ALSO READ: 'If IPL doesn't happen for first time in 13 years...' - Harbhajan Singh throws his weight on future of showpiece tournament “Indian selector Sharandeep Singh, he used to go to meetings and say that Yuvraj should be dropped. Such people are appointed as selectors who do not know ABC of cricket. What do you expect from them? It hurts when someone backstabs you. Everybody was worried about what would happen to them if Yuvraj continues to perform,” Yograj added. Yuvraj, one of the finest white-ball cricketers ever and orchestrator of India’s World Cup wins in 2007 and 2011, hung his boots on June 10, 2019. Fans and former cricketers were left flabbergasted on the fact that the southpaw didn’t get a deserved farewell following his service for the team and country.

'It hurts' - Yograj Singh claims MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli and selectors back-stabbed Yuvraj Singh

Australian cricket ball manufacturer Kookaburra is working on wax applicator that will allow players to shine the ball without using saliva or sweat while minimising the risk of COVID-19 transmission. Generally, players shine one side of the ball and roughen up the other to make the ball swing in the air in a bid to deceive the batsman with the movement. However, the COVID-19 pandemic is likely to give another body blow with the usage of saliva and sweat is expected to be ban in the wake of the global crisis. &nbsp;

As per the guidelines released by Australian Institute of Sport, last week, rubbing of spit or sweat into the ball’s surface is banned in one of the conditions for the gentlemen’s game to resume.

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Kookaburra said the wax applicator could provide a solution but is in “very early-stage product development.”

“At Kookaburra we are committed to continuous improvement and innovation in the game we love,” general manager David Orchard told AFP.

“As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic we are always looking for solutions to allow our game to be played safely by all cricketing communities around the world,” he said.

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Cricket, like other sports, is suspended around the world due to the pandemic and the wax applicator would need approval from governing bodies before the resumption of play.

Kookaburra’s plan involves using a sponge to apply wax to the ball and then shine it as per the requirement of the bowler or the fielding team.

The present law strictly prohibits the use of artificial substances to change the condition of the ball and is regarded as a taboo in the world of cricket. Over the years, bowlers and fielders have been accused of using jelly, resin, lozenges, bottle tops, grit and sandpaper to alter the condition of the ball to their advantage.&nbsp;

Australian cricket ball manufacturer Kookaburra is working on wax applicator that will allow players to shine the ball without using saliva or sweat while minimising the risk of COVID-19 transmission.

Australian cricket ball manufacturer Kookaburra is working on wax applicator that will allow players to shine the ball without using saliva or sweat while minimising the risk of COVID-19 transmission. Generally, players shine one side of the ball and roughen up the other to make the ball swing in the air in a bid to deceive the batsman with the movement. However, the COVID-19 pandemic is likely to give another body blow with the usage of saliva and sweat is expected to be ban in the wake of the global crisis. As per the guidelines released by Australian Institute of Sport, last week, rubbing of spit or sweat into the ball’s surface is banned in one of the conditions for the gentlemen’s game to resume. ALSO READ: 'If IPL doesn't happen for first time in 13 years...' - Harbhajan Singh throws his weight on future of showpiece tournament Kookaburra said the wax applicator could provide a solution but is in “very early-stage product development.” “At Kookaburra we are committed to continuous improvement and innovation in the game we love,” general manager David Orchard told AFP. “As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic we are always looking for solutions to allow our game to be played safely by all cricketing communities around the world,” he said. ALSO READ: ECB terminates contracts of players signed up for ‘The Hundred’ Cricket, like other sports, is suspended around the world due to the pandemic and the wax applicator would need approval from governing bodies before the resumption of play. Kookaburra’s plan involves using a sponge to apply wax to the ball and then shine it as per the requirement of the bowler or the fielding team. The present law strictly prohibits the use of artificial substances to change the condition of the ball and is regarded as a taboo in the world of cricket. Over the years, bowlers and fielders have been accused of using jelly, resin, lozenges, bottle tops, grit and sandpaper to alter the condition of the ball to their advantage.

Solution for saliva conundrum? Kookaburra’s wax applicator to allow bowlers shine ball artificially

As Premier League is finalizing proposals and ideas for a possible resumption of the halted 2019-20 campaign, Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) chief executive Gordon Taylor has hinted that halves may be shorter than the usual 45 minutes as discussions continue about Premier League’s future.&nbsp;

Most of the English top-flight clubs are on the same page while remaining committed to restarting the 2019-20 season but said: "it was agreed that the PFA, LMA, players and managers are key to this process and will be further consulted".

Safety and well-being of individual players returning to work are crucial and Taylor said the authorities are working to put the safety of players first with a possibility of resuming the league in mid-June. But what comes as a major surprise is that there is a possibility of matches being less than 90 minutes, which is the professional rule for all the matches.&nbsp;

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"They're not stupid," Taylor said in a radio programme. "They will put safety first.

"There is a protocol being put together that is going to be presented, involving all medical experts and Government medical experts,” Taylor added.

Premier League&nbsp;shareholders' meeting on Friday is key as the authorities are planning to layout a document as soon as possible.&nbsp;

"There will be a meeting of the shareholders of the Premier League on Friday and then shortly after that the document of returning to work should be finalised and then in the following week, next week, as early as possible, that will be put to players and coaches," Taylor added.

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"Then the practicality of all those issues and it will be looked at club by club."

However, Taylor clarified that nothing has been finalised and everything right now are simply proposals: "We'll have to wait and see. I'm talking about a protocol that's coming out. I'm talking about the future.

"We don't know the future. What we do know is what propositions have been put, what ideas have been put, the possibility of having more substitutes, games possibly not being the full 45 minutes each way.

"There are talks of neutral stadiums. There have been lots of things being put forward.

"Try and wait and see what the proposals are, and then have the courtesy to let the managers and coaches and players also assimilate all those and come to a considered view." 
&nbsp;

As Premier League is finalizing proposals and ideas for a possible resumption of the halted 2019-20 campaign, Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) chief executive Gordon Taylor has hinted that halves may be shorter than the usual 45 minutes as discussions continue about Premier League’s future.

As Premier League is finalizing proposals and ideas for a possible resumption of the halted 2019-20 campaign, Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) chief executive Gordon Taylor has hinted that halves may be shorter than the usual 45 minutes as discussions continue about Premier League’s future. Most of the English top-flight clubs are on the same page while remaining committed to restarting the 2019-20 season but said: "it was agreed that the PFA, LMA, players and managers are key to this process and will be further consulted". Safety and well-being of individual players returning to work are crucial and Taylor said the authorities are working to put the safety of players first with a possibility of resuming the league in mid-June. But what comes as a major surprise is that there is a possibility of matches being less than 90 minutes, which is the professional rule for all the matches. ALSO READ: La Liga eyes June return as Real Sociedad, Athletic Bilbao request Copa del Rey final to be played in front of fans "They're not stupid," Taylor said in a radio programme. "They will put safety first. "There is a protocol being put together that is going to be presented, involving all medical experts and Government medical experts,” Taylor added. Premier League shareholders' meeting on Friday is key as the authorities are planning to layout a document as soon as possible. "There will be a meeting of the shareholders of the Premier League on Friday and then shortly after that the document of returning to work should be finalised and then in the following week, next week, as early as possible, that will be put to players and coaches," Taylor added. ALSO READ: No spitting, no fans: Baseball restarts South Korea's sports season "Then the practicality of all those issues and it will be looked at club by club." However, Taylor clarified that nothing has been finalised and everything right now are simply proposals: "We'll have to wait and see. I'm talking about a protocol that's coming out. I'm talking about the future. "We don't know the future. What we do know is what propositions have been put, what ideas have been put, the possibility of having more substitutes, games possibly not being the full 45 minutes each way. "There are talks of neutral stadiums. There have been lots of things being put forward. "Try and wait and see what the proposals are, and then have the courtesy to let the managers and coaches and players also assimilate all those and come to a considered view."

Halves shorter than 45 minutes? PFA chief Gordon Taylor hints at change of rules as Premier League gears up for return

With cricket taking a backseat due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there is a sense of uncertainty as in whether major upcoming tournaments will go as scheduled. The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 has already been postponed indefinitely whereas there are question marks on the ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled to be played in October-November. Veteran Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh is of the view that international players won’t be travelling in the near future to play cricket while adding he will be absolutely fine if the authorities decide not to conduct the IPL this year.&nbsp;

Harbhajan further said that cricket can’t be forced in amid the current situation while adding the game can wait as human life comes first.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ecb-terminates-contracts-of-players-signed-up-for-the-hundred-296763" hreflang="en">ECB terminates contracts of players signed up for ‘The Hundred’</a>

“Travelling from and to will be restricted in many countries in the coming months. I don’t see international players travelling in the near future. I do not know what decisions the (Indian) government and BCCI take on the future of IPL. Honestly, even if IPL doesn’t happen for the first time in 13 years I think that is fine. We can’t force to have cricket seeing the serious situation we all are in. Human life comes first, cricket can wait,” Bhajji told a leading daily.

Harbhajan, who would have been playing for CSK in the 13th edition of the IPL if everything was normal. The 39-year-old said that he is not even thinking of cricket and the main agenda in his books is to save lives and practice solidarity.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-spitting-no-fans-baseball-restarts-south-koreas-sports-season-296751" hreflang="en">No spitting, no fans: Baseball restarts South Korea's sports season</a>

“This is a testing time for everyone. Honestly, I am not even thinking about cricket at the moment. Saving lives and practicing solidarity are the most important things on my agenda. When we began the CSK camp in the beginning of March we didn’t anticipate this as we had large crowds coming in even for practice sessions. Within days and weeks the world turned upside down; nobody is talking about cricket or sports. Everybody is just concerned about saving lives,” he said.

Meanwhile, speculations are rife that the BCCI is looking for an alternate window to conduct the IPL later in the year 2020. 
&nbsp;

With cricket taking a backseat due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there is a sense of uncertainty as in whether major upcoming tournaments will go as scheduled. The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 has already been postponed indefinitely whereas there are question marks on the ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled to be played in October-November.

With cricket taking a backseat due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there is a sense of uncertainty as in whether major upcoming tournaments will go as scheduled. The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 has already been postponed indefinitely whereas there are question marks on the ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled to be played in October-November. Veteran Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh is of the view that international players won’t be travelling in the near future to play cricket while adding he will be absolutely fine if the authorities decide not to conduct the IPL this year. Harbhajan further said that cricket can’t be forced in amid the current situation while adding the game can wait as human life comes first. ALSO READ: ECB terminates contracts of players signed up for ‘The Hundred’ “Travelling from and to will be restricted in many countries in the coming months. I don’t see international players travelling in the near future. I do not know what decisions the (Indian) government and BCCI take on the future of IPL. Honestly, even if IPL doesn’t happen for the first time in 13 years I think that is fine. We can’t force to have cricket seeing the serious situation we all are in. Human life comes first, cricket can wait,” Bhajji told a leading daily. Harbhajan, who would have been playing for CSK in the 13th edition of the IPL if everything was normal. The 39-year-old said that he is not even thinking of cricket and the main agenda in his books is to save lives and practice solidarity. ALSO READ: No spitting, no fans: Baseball restarts South Korea's sports season “This is a testing time for everyone. Honestly, I am not even thinking about cricket at the moment. Saving lives and practicing solidarity are the most important things on my agenda. When we began the CSK camp in the beginning of March we didn’t anticipate this as we had large crowds coming in even for practice sessions. Within days and weeks the world turned upside down; nobody is talking about cricket or sports. Everybody is just concerned about saving lives,” he said. Meanwhile, speculations are rife that the BCCI is looking for an alternate window to conduct the IPL later in the year 2020.

'If IPL doesn't happen for first time in 13 years...' - Harbhajan Singh throws his weight on future of showpiece tournament

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has cancelled contracts of the players who were due to participate in the inaugural edition of ‘The Hundred’ which was pushed to next year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The new 100-balls-per-side format, to be played by eight teams in separate men’s and women’s tournaments, was scheduled to be held between July 17 and August 15 but had to be postponed because of the pandemic.

The franchises in the men’s competition had already selected their squads in a draft in October, while the women’s teams were also in the process of completing their squads.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-spitting-no-fans-baseball-restarts-south-koreas-sports-season-296751" hreflang="en">No spitting, no fans: Baseball restarts South Korea's sports season</a>

But now with the tournament delayed, the ECB has sent a letter to the players informing them about the termination of their contracts.

“We can confirm that a letter terminating current player contracts has been issued today to all involved,” the BBC quoted an ECB statement.

“This letter is necessary paperwork to legally update and inform players of the situation, which follows a notification last week around the launch of the new competition being moved to 2021.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/would-be-devastating-if-india-dont-tour-australia-due-to-covid-19-pandemic-296584" hreflang="en">"Would be devastating if India don’t tour Australia due to COVID-19 pandemic"</a>

“We are working closely with PCA on a number of options for players regarding next year’s launch.”

The 100-ball competition was postponed last Thursday due to global travel restrictions in the wake of the highly-contagious disease which has left more than 2 lakh dead so far worldwide and over 30 lakh infected.

Due to the health crisis, the ECB had also suspended its domestic season until at least July 1.

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has cancelled contracts of the players who were due to participate in the inaugural edition of ‘The Hundred’ which was pushed to next year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has cancelled contracts of the players who were due to participate in the inaugural edition of ‘The Hundred’ which was pushed to next year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The new 100-balls-per-side format, to be played by eight teams in separate men’s and women’s tournaments, was scheduled to be held between July 17 and August 15 but had to be postponed because of the pandemic. The franchises in the men’s competition had already selected their squads in a draft in October, while the women’s teams were also in the process of completing their squads. ALSO READ: No spitting, no fans: Baseball restarts South Korea's sports season But now with the tournament delayed, the ECB has sent a letter to the players informing them about the termination of their contracts. “We can confirm that a letter terminating current player contracts has been issued today to all involved,” the BBC quoted an ECB statement. “This letter is necessary paperwork to legally update and inform players of the situation, which follows a notification last week around the launch of the new competition being moved to 2021. ALSO READ: "Would be devastating if India don’t tour Australia due to COVID-19 pandemic" “We are working closely with PCA on a number of options for players regarding next year’s launch.” The 100-ball competition was postponed last Thursday due to global travel restrictions in the wake of the highly-contagious disease which has left more than 2 lakh dead so far worldwide and over 30 lakh infected. Due to the health crisis, the ECB had also suspended its domestic season until at least July 1.

ECB terminates contracts of players signed up for ‘The Hundred’

South Korea's professional sport returned to action after the coronavirus shutdown with the opening of a new baseball season Tuesday, while football and golf will soon follow suit in a ray of hope for suspended competitions worldwide.

Friday will see the delayed start of football's K-League, and next week some of golf's leading women players will tee up in a domestic tournament as South Korea becomes a rare hotspot for live sport.

Fans were not allowed in when any of Tuesday's five opening Korean Baseball Organisation (KBO) matches saw the first pitches thrown, a marked contrast from the packed stadiums of previous years when fans sang and cheered relentlessly no matter the score.

Instead, banners with photos of masked fans stretched across the empty bleachers at the Incheon-based SK Wyverns club's Munhak Baseball Stadium.

Banners carrying messages for victory were also put up at the LG Twins club's Jamsil derby in Seoul, saying: "Even if we are apart, we are TWINS."

Fans were divided over the unprecedented format.

"Baseball is finally back! But I wonder when I can actually go to the stadium," tweeted one fan.

Another online user said: "This doesn't feel like the opening of a season at all. I'm watching baseball from home, hugging a pillow."

At the stadium, strict health checks and hygiene measures were enforced.

Players must have their temperature checked twice before games, with face masks to be worn in all areas except the playing field and the dugouts, according to the KBO.

Players have also been asked not to shake hands or exchange high-fives, while spitting is prohibited -- putting a new complexion on what is South Korea's most popular spectator sport.

<h2>- US tunes in -</h2>

ESPN announced it will show six KBO League games per week to fans pining for live baseball in the US, while broadcasters in 10 foreign territories have snapped up rights to air K-League matches.

South Korea endured one of the worst early outbreaks of the disease outside China, prompting professional sports to suspend or delay their seasons.

But the country appears to have brought its outbreak under control thanks to an extensive "trace, test and treat" programme.

The start-up will bring welcome live action in a barren sports world where fans have had to make do with sports channels and broadcasters airing repeats of past events.

The K-League, originally due to start in February, will kick off Friday with a blockbuster clash between Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors, champions for the past three seasons, against FA Cup winners Suwon Bluewings.

And South Korea will next week become the first country to see women's professional golf resume after COVID-19.

South Korean players dominate women's golf with eight featuring in the world's top 20, including number one Ko Jin-young.

The $1.8 million the Korea Ladies Professional Golf Association (KLPGA) Championship begins on May 14 in Yangju, east of Seoul with world number six Kim Sei-young and 10th-ranked Lee Jeong-eun in the 144-strong field.

South Korea has been seeing only a trickle of new coronavirus infections in recent days, with three fresh cases reported on Tuesday taking the total to 10,804.

South Korea's professional sport returned to action after the coronavirus shutdown with the opening of a new baseball season Tuesday, while football and golf will soon follow suit in a ray of hope for suspended competitions worldwide.

South Korea's professional sport returned to action after the coronavirus shutdown with the opening of a new baseball season Tuesday, while football and golf will soon follow suit in a ray of hope for suspended competitions worldwide. Friday will see the delayed start of football's K-League, and next week some of golf's leading women players will tee up in a domestic tournament as South Korea becomes a rare hotspot for live sport. Fans were not allowed in when any of Tuesday's five opening Korean Baseball Organisation (KBO) matches saw the first pitches thrown, a marked contrast from the packed stadiums of previous years when fans sang and cheered relentlessly no matter the score. Instead, banners with photos of masked fans stretched across the empty bleachers at the Incheon-based SK Wyverns club's Munhak Baseball Stadium. Banners carrying messages for victory were also put up at the LG Twins club's Jamsil derby in Seoul, saying: "Even if we are apart, we are TWINS." Fans were divided over the unprecedented format. "Baseball is finally back! But I wonder when I can actually go to the stadium," tweeted one fan. Another online user said: "This doesn't feel like the opening of a season at all. I'm watching baseball from home, hugging a pillow." At the stadium, strict health checks and hygiene measures were enforced. Players must have their temperature checked twice before games, with face masks to be worn in all areas except the playing field and the dugouts, according to the KBO. Players have also been asked not to shake hands or exchange high-fives, while spitting is prohibited -- putting a new complexion on what is South Korea's most popular spectator sport. - US tunes in - ESPN announced it will show six KBO League games per week to fans pining for live baseball in the US, while broadcasters in 10 foreign territories have snapped up rights to air K-League matches. South Korea endured one of the worst early outbreaks of the disease outside China, prompting professional sports to suspend or delay their seasons. But the country appears to have brought its outbreak under control thanks to an extensive "trace, test and treat" programme. The start-up will bring welcome live action in a barren sports world where fans have had to make do with sports channels and broadcasters airing repeats of past events. The K-League, originally due to start in February, will kick off Friday with a blockbuster clash between Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors, champions for the past three seasons, against FA Cup winners Suwon Bluewings. And South Korea will next week become the first country to see women's professional golf resume after COVID-19. South Korean players dominate women's golf with eight featuring in the world's top 20, including number one Ko Jin-young. The $1.8 million the Korea Ladies Professional Golf Association (KLPGA) Championship begins on May 14 in Yangju, east of Seoul with world number six Kim Sei-young and 10th-ranked Lee Jeong-eun in the 144-strong field. South Korea has been seeing only a trickle of new coronavirus infections in recent days, with three fresh cases reported on Tuesday taking the total to 10,804.

No spitting, no fans: Baseball restarts South Korea's sports season

Spanish football authorities on Monday chalked out plans to resume the halted La Liga 2019-20 season in June with clubs getting permission to return to training this week for individual training – two months after the campaign was postponed due to COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

Players, who were restricted to train indoors amid lockdown measures, will begin individual training this week after the Spanish government lifted sports-related measures.&nbsp;

La Liga president Javier Tebas said that the league has a comprehensive protocol to safeguard the health and well-being of everyone involved in the resumption of the season in the month of June.

"People's health is paramount, so we have a comprehensive protocol to safeguard the health of everyone involved as we work to restart La Liga," league president Javier Tebas said in the statement.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-spitting-no-fans-baseball-restarts-s-koreas-sports-season-296751" hreflang="en">No spitting, no fans: baseball restarts S. Korea's sports season</a>

"Circumstances are unprecedented, but we hope to start playing again in June and finish our 19/20 season this summer."

<h2>Players allowed to train</h2>

From Tuesday, footballers in Spain will undergo COVID-19 tests and will be allowed to take to the field once the result is out negative.

Earlier, Tebas had said that Spanish first and second-division football could start on May 28-29, June 6-7 or June 28-29 with the possibility of matches happening behind closed doors.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cristiano-ronaldo-returns-to-turin-after-coronavirus-lockdown-296743" hreflang="en">Cristiano Ronaldo returns to Turin after coronavirus lockdown</a>

Meanwhile, Copa Del Rey finalists – Real Sociedad and Athletic Bilbao – issued a joint request to play the summit clash of the tournament in front of fans and the request has received support from the Spanish football federation (RFEF). This would be the first all-Basque final in the history of the competition.

"The desire and will of both clubs have always been, now and before, to play and enjoy the final match along with the supporters," they said in a joint press release. "This is what we would like most. A final to be lived with our supporters in the stands."

The fixture was originally scheduled for April 18 in Seville at the Olympic Stadium, known as La Cartuja. But no new date has been fixed, as of now. 
&nbsp;

Spanish football authorities on Monday chalked out plans to resume the halted La Liga 2019-20 season in June with clubs getting permission to return to training this week for individual training – two months after the campaign was postponed due to COVID-19 pandemic.

Spanish football authorities on Monday chalked out plans to resume the halted La Liga 2019-20 season in June with clubs getting permission to return to training this week for individual training – two months after the campaign was postponed due to COVID-19 pandemic. Players, who were restricted to train indoors amid lockdown measures, will begin individual training this week after the Spanish government lifted sports-related measures. La Liga president Javier Tebas said that the league has a comprehensive protocol to safeguard the health and well-being of everyone involved in the resumption of the season in the month of June. "People's health is paramount, so we have a comprehensive protocol to safeguard the health of everyone involved as we work to restart La Liga," league president Javier Tebas said in the statement. ALSO READ: No spitting, no fans: baseball restarts S. Korea's sports season "Circumstances are unprecedented, but we hope to start playing again in June and finish our 19/20 season this summer." Players allowed to train From Tuesday, footballers in Spain will undergo COVID-19 tests and will be allowed to take to the field once the result is out negative. Earlier, Tebas had said that Spanish first and second-division football could start on May 28-29, June 6-7 or June 28-29 with the possibility of matches happening behind closed doors. ALSO READ: Cristiano Ronaldo returns to Turin after coronavirus lockdown Meanwhile, Copa Del Rey finalists – Real Sociedad and Athletic Bilbao – issued a joint request to play the summit clash of the tournament in front of fans and the request has received support from the Spanish football federation (RFEF). This would be the first all-Basque final in the history of the competition. "The desire and will of both clubs have always been, now and before, to play and enjoy the final match along with the supporters," they said in a joint press release. "This is what we would like most. A final to be lived with our supporters in the stands." The fixture was originally scheduled for April 18 in Seville at the Olympic Stadium, known as La Cartuja. But no new date has been fixed, as of now.

La Liga eyes June return as Real Sociedad, Athletic Bilbao request Copa del Rey final to be played in front of fans

Australian tennis maverick Nick Kyrgios invited Rafael Nadal to take part in a cosy video chat on Sunday despite their stormy on-court relationship.

As the coronavirus has sent the tennis season into hibernation until July 13 at the earliest, a host of players have recently taken to social media for face-to-face exchanges.

So, on Sunday, after the BBC had asked for suggestions as to the most sought-after facetimes, Kyrgios was quick to respond.

"Rafa lets do Instagram live together.&nbsp;I am down with it. Rafael Nadal let's do it," wrote the Australian on Instagram.

Kyrgios and Nadal have endured a bitter relationship on court.

Last year, the 19-time Grand Slam winner accused the Australian of "lacking respect" after Kyrgios won a stormy encounter in Mexico.

Kyrgios responded by claiming the Spanish world number two was "super-salty".

They met again at Wimbledon last summer when Nadal won but fumed after the Australian appeared to spear a ball directly at him.

Australian tennis maverick Nick Kyrgios invited Rafael Nadal to take part in a cosy video chat on Sunday despite their stormy on-court relationship. As the coronavirus has sent the tennis season into hibernation until July 13 at the earliest, a host of players have recently taken to social media for face-to-face exchanges.

Australian tennis maverick Nick Kyrgios invited Rafael Nadal to take part in a cosy video chat on Sunday despite their stormy on-court relationship. As the coronavirus has sent the tennis season into hibernation until July 13 at the earliest, a host of players have recently taken to social media for face-to-face exchanges. So, on Sunday, after the BBC had asked for suggestions as to the most sought-after facetimes, Kyrgios was quick to respond. "Rafa lets do Instagram live together. I am down with it. Rafael Nadal let's do it," wrote the Australian on Instagram. Kyrgios and Nadal have endured a bitter relationship on court. Last year, the 19-time Grand Slam winner accused the Australian of "lacking respect" after Kyrgios won a stormy encounter in Mexico. Kyrgios responded by claiming the Spanish world number two was "super-salty". They met again at Wimbledon last summer when Nadal won but fumed after the Australian appeared to spear a ball directly at him.

Kyrgios tells bitter rival Nadal: 'Let's do Insta'

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