Jurgen Klopp believes there is still room for improvement from Liverpool despite their incredible Premier League campaign, which is on hold due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The Reds were 25 points clear of second-placed Manchester City and on the verge of their first top-flight title since 1990 when football was halted last month.

But Klopp said Liverpool, who won the Champions League last year and have only lost one Premier League match all season, could get even better.

"We will not change, that's the first thing, but whether we will be successful depends on what other clubs are doing as well because they have all the chance to improve things, do things better," he told Sky Sports.

"So I have no clue what the future will hold for us. But we will not change, this team is not the finished article, and we have a lot of space for improvement, and we work on that.

"We have fresh blood internally coming through. We can improve with this team, which is great."

Klopp does not believe football should be "forced back" after the COVID-19 shutdown but admitted it could have a positive impact on the mood of the country.

There is no end in sight to the football lockdown in England but German football authorities are set to announce plans for Bundesliga matches to restart in empty stadiums on May 9.

"We are all at home, all isolated, we have no cases or stuff like this," said Klopp.

"If we come together and train in groups of two or five or six or eight, I'm not sure when that will be possible, we have to wait for the government on that. We cannot force that and will not, because we can't, there's absolutely nothing for that.

"But if football can help in some departments with lifting the mood, giving something to think about and to deal with in a different way, then we have to start training at one point, but I don't know when that will be."

Jurgen Klopp believes there is still room for improvement from Liverpool despite their incredible Premier League campaign, which is on hold due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Jurgen Klopp believes there is still room for improvement from Liverpool despite their incredible Premier League campaign, which is on hold due to the coronavirus pandemic. The Reds were 25 points clear of second-placed Manchester City and on the verge of their first top-flight title since 1990 when football was halted last month. But Klopp said Liverpool, who won the Champions League last year and have only lost one Premier League match all season, could get even better. "We will not change, that's the first thing, but whether we will be successful depends on what other clubs are doing as well because they have all the chance to improve things, do things better," he told Sky Sports. "So I have no clue what the future will hold for us. But we will not change, this team is not the finished article, and we have a lot of space for improvement, and we work on that. "We have fresh blood internally coming through. We can improve with this team, which is great." Klopp does not believe football should be "forced back" after the COVID-19 shutdown but admitted it could have a positive impact on the mood of the country. There is no end in sight to the football lockdown in England but German football authorities are set to announce plans for Bundesliga matches to restart in empty stadiums on May 9. "We are all at home, all isolated, we have no cases or stuff like this," said Klopp. "If we come together and train in groups of two or five or six or eight, I'm not sure when that will be possible, we have to wait for the government on that. We cannot force that and will not, because we can't, there's absolutely nothing for that. "But if football can help in some departments with lifting the mood, giving something to think about and to deal with in a different way, then we have to start training at one point, but I don't know when that will be."

Jurgen Klopp says Liverpool are not finished article

The Indian Olympic Association on Wednesday decided to ask the Sports Ministry to allow national campers undergo outdoor training inside major sports centres in the country by following necessary precautions during the lockdown and after that.

All sports activities have been stopped due to COVID-19-forced nationwide lockdown which has been extended till May 3 and the athletes are barred from any outdoor training even inside their facilities. They have to follow the social distancing guidelines of the government strictly.

Campers at the NIS-Patiala had already written to the Ministry requesting to allow them outdoor training (but inside the facility) in small numbers and different timings in the day so that they can follow social distancing.

"(We will) request SAI and MYAS that there are few SAI centres such as Patiala, Bangalore etc where athletes were training prior to the lockdown. These athletes who are in these centres should be allowed to train and the athletes will respect &amp; follow all required restrictions and protocols," the IOA said.

"Similarly discussion should to be taken up with SAI and MYAS as to how other SAI centres can also be opened for other Olympic Sports by following &amp; respecting all the required restrictions and protocols," it said after a meeting of the IOA Preparations Committee.

The meeting, held via video conference under the chairmanship of Lalit Bhanot, was attended by IOA President Narinder Batra, Secretary General Rajiv Mehta and Tokyo Olympics Indian contingent Chef De Mission BP Baisya.

The meeting attended by 62 representatives from various National Sports Federations agreed that Olympic-bound athletes should train within the country till end of the year in order to avoid any risk to them.

"Both the domestic and international calendars are in shut down mode as of now for majority of the sports and such a situation is likely to carry on maybe till end of the year. Most of the international Federations also do not have any competitions lined up till end of the year.

"All further developments regarding this situation will be monitored regularly and continuously," IOA President Batra said.

The IOA also agreed that the "decisions on extension of contracts for High Performance Directors, chief/head coaches, coaches and other support staff till 2021 or 2024 needs to done on priority by SAI and the ministry for smooth handling of training for 2021 and thereafter".

"Regarding kitchen and hygiene at SAI centres, all of us respect and acknowledge that this is being monitored strictly by SAI. Our request to SAI and MYAS is that it needs to continue to be monitored, handled vigilantly and strictly.

"Due to sudden lockdown, few NSFs have their equipment (eg Sailing Federation) left outside india and assistance is required from MYAS &amp; SAI for it to be got back to India as soon as possible."

The IOA top brass also took stock of the implications of the postponement of the Tokyo Olympics to next year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Indian athletes who have qualified are young in age, it will give them more time to train, gain more experience and confidence to perform better in 2021," it said as an advantage of the Games being postponed.

On the disadvantages of the postponement, it said, "Athletes who have been carrying injuries and who have already matured may find it difficult to carry on for another year under extreme conditions.

"Some Athletes have already taken maximum load to peak in 2020, they may find it difficult to sustain for another year and may risk injuries."

Target Olympic Podium Scheme CEO Rajesh Rajagopalan also took part in the virtual meeting.

More than 70 Indian athletes have so far qualified for the Tokyo Olympics, which has been rescheduled for July 23 to August 8 next year.&nbsp;

The Indian Olympic Association on Wednesday decided to ask the Sports Ministry to allow national campers undergo outdoor training inside major sports centres in the country by following necessary precautions during the lockdown and after that.

The Indian Olympic Association on Wednesday decided to ask the Sports Ministry to allow national campers undergo outdoor training inside major sports centres in the country by following necessary precautions during the lockdown and after that. All sports activities have been stopped due to COVID-19-forced nationwide lockdown which has been extended till May 3 and the athletes are barred from any outdoor training even inside their facilities. They have to follow the social distancing guidelines of the government strictly. Campers at the NIS-Patiala had already written to the Ministry requesting to allow them outdoor training (but inside the facility) in small numbers and different timings in the day so that they can follow social distancing. "(We will) request SAI and MYAS that there are few SAI centres such as Patiala, Bangalore etc where athletes were training prior to the lockdown. These athletes who are in these centres should be allowed to train and the athletes will respect & follow all required restrictions and protocols," the IOA said. "Similarly discussion should to be taken up with SAI and MYAS as to how other SAI centres can also be opened for other Olympic Sports by following & respecting all the required restrictions and protocols," it said after a meeting of the IOA Preparations Committee. The meeting, held via video conference under the chairmanship of Lalit Bhanot, was attended by IOA President Narinder Batra, Secretary General Rajiv Mehta and Tokyo Olympics Indian contingent Chef De Mission BP Baisya. The meeting attended by 62 representatives from various National Sports Federations agreed that Olympic-bound athletes should train within the country till end of the year in order to avoid any risk to them. "Both the domestic and international calendars are in shut down mode as of now for majority of the sports and such a situation is likely to carry on maybe till end of the year. Most of the international Federations also do not have any competitions lined up till end of the year. "All further developments regarding this situation will be monitored regularly and continuously," IOA President Batra said. The IOA also agreed that the "decisions on extension of contracts for High Performance Directors, chief/head coaches, coaches and other support staff till 2021 or 2024 needs to done on priority by SAI and the ministry for smooth handling of training for 2021 and thereafter". "Regarding kitchen and hygiene at SAI centres, all of us respect and acknowledge that this is being monitored strictly by SAI. Our request to SAI and MYAS is that it needs to continue to be monitored, handled vigilantly and strictly. "Due to sudden lockdown, few NSFs have their equipment (eg Sailing Federation) left outside india and assistance is required from MYAS & SAI for it to be got back to India as soon as possible." The IOA top brass also took stock of the implications of the postponement of the Tokyo Olympics to next year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. "Indian athletes who have qualified are young in age, it will give them more time to train, gain more experience and confidence to perform better in 2021," it said as an advantage of the Games being postponed. On the disadvantages of the postponement, it said, "Athletes who have been carrying injuries and who have already matured may find it difficult to carry on for another year under extreme conditions. "Some Athletes have already taken maximum load to peak in 2020, they may find it difficult to sustain for another year and may risk injuries." Target Olympic Podium Scheme CEO Rajesh Rajagopalan also took part in the virtual meeting. More than 70 Indian athletes have so far qualified for the Tokyo Olympics, which has been rescheduled for July 23 to August 8 next year.

IOA decides to ask Sports Ministry to allow national campers outdoor training inside SAI centres

India’s semi-final defeat against New Zealand in the ICC World Cup 2019 is still fresh in the minds of cricket lovers. Many experts and fans were left baffled by the sudden promotion of Dinesh Karthik in the batting order following a top-order collapse while chasing a 240-run target. Since the crushing defeat, Karthik has been dropped from the side as selectors silently looked to other players.&nbsp;

Months after the heartbreaking defeat to the Black Caps, Karthik opened up on his sudden promotion as he said the move came as a&nbsp;surprise to him as the team management was very clear that he would be batting at number seven throughout the campaign.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hope-teams-will-be-given-time-to-prepare-for-icc-t20-world-cup-rohit-sharma-294030" hreflang="en">Hope teams will be given time to prepare for ICC T20 World Cup: Rohit Sharma</a>&nbsp;

Karthik said that his move was to arrest the flow of wickets while adding that he had to move really quickly to get ready due to the plan being a last-moment implementation.&nbsp;

“It came as a bit of a surprise because they had made it very clear that I would be batting at number seven. We had to send a rearguard action just to stem the flow of wickets. I was told to pad up and it all happened in a daze, in a hurry," Karthik was quoted as saying by leading cricket news portal.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/team-india-head-coach-ravi-shastri-opines-on-future-of-icc-t20-world-cup-294023" hreflang="en">Team India head coach Ravi Shastri opines on future of ICC T20 World Cup</a>

“I was just sitting in my shorts and I had to go up, get ready. Literally, I was late to get in, I wasn’t expecting a wicket to fall. KL Rahul got out and I had to put on my pads. I went in in the third over and I don’t know when I got out, and it doesn’t matter, but I just stopped the wickets falling till Boult’s spell was over. He was the main wrecker-in-chief and unluckily when it was time for me to move on, I got out to a brilliant catch by James Neesham,” he added.

India suffered a heartbreaking 18-run defeat to New Zealand to bow out of the quadrennial event after enjoying a splendid run in the league stage.

India’s semi-final defeat against New Zealand in the ICC World Cup 2019 is still fresh in the minds of cricket lovers. Many experts and fans were left baffled by the sudden promotion of Dinesh Karthik in the batting order following a top-order collapse while chasing a 240-run target.

India’s semi-final defeat against New Zealand in the ICC World Cup 2019 is still fresh in the minds of cricket lovers. Many experts and fans were left baffled by the sudden promotion of Dinesh Karthik in the batting order following a top-order collapse while chasing a 240-run target. Since the crushing defeat, Karthik has been dropped from the side as selectors silently looked to other players. Months after the heartbreaking defeat to the Black Caps, Karthik opened up on his sudden promotion as he said the move came as a surprise to him as the team management was very clear that he would be batting at number seven throughout the campaign. ALSO READ: Hope teams will be given time to prepare for ICC T20 World Cup: Rohit Sharma Karthik said that his move was to arrest the flow of wickets while adding that he had to move really quickly to get ready due to the plan being a last-moment implementation. “It came as a bit of a surprise because they had made it very clear that I would be batting at number seven. We had to send a rearguard action just to stem the flow of wickets. I was told to pad up and it all happened in a daze, in a hurry," Karthik was quoted as saying by leading cricket news portal. ALSO READ: Team India head coach Ravi Shastri opines on future of ICC T20 World Cup “I was just sitting in my shorts and I had to go up, get ready. Literally, I was late to get in, I wasn’t expecting a wicket to fall. KL Rahul got out and I had to put on my pads. I went in in the third over and I don’t know when I got out, and it doesn’t matter, but I just stopped the wickets falling till Boult’s spell was over. He was the main wrecker-in-chief and unluckily when it was time for me to move on, I got out to a brilliant catch by James Neesham,” he added. India suffered a heartbreaking 18-run defeat to New Zealand to bow out of the quadrennial event after enjoying a splendid run in the league stage.

'It came as a surprise' - Dinesh Karthik on batting promotion in 2019 World Cup semi-final

Indian cricket team's&nbsp;limited-overs vice-captain, Rohit Sharma reckons teams will be given enough time to prepare for the ICC T20 World Cup given the showpiece event goes ahead as planned. The ICC T20 World Cup is scheduled to be hosted by Australia in October-November but the COVID-19 pandemic and the 6-month lockdown period that is enforced Down Under to curb the spread of the dreaded virus.&nbsp;

The Indian opener said that nobody is sure when the T20 World Cup will take place but whenever it does the cricket boards and ICC will provide preparation time to all the teams as nobody is training or playing during the ongoing lockdown phase.

Rohit is of the view that players need to go out on the field and start training in a bid to get into a rhythm while adding the last ball he faced was on February 2 when he suffered a calf injury while playing against New Zealand.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-cricket-is-just-not-a-sport-for-me-it-is-what-i-live-for-smriti-mandhana-opens-up-on-her-love-for-the-game-rapport-with-jemimah-and-much-more-293856" hreflang="en">Exclusive: 'Cricket is just not a sport for me, it is what I live for' - Smriti Mandhana opens up on her love for the game, rapport with Jemimah and much more</a>

<h2>"You need to go out there and start training"</h2>

"We are really not sure when this World Cup (T20 World Cup) is going to happen. As and when it happens, we will have a fair amount of time to prepare for it. The cricket boards around the world are not going to say 'everything is fine; we will schedule the World Cup'. Of course, preparation time is going to be given for all the countries because all the countries are under lockdown. Nobody's playing, nobody's training. The limited stuff at home is not enough," Rohit told a news portal.

"You need to go out there and start training and get into the routine and get your muscles strong. Especially for me, I was just injured before the lockdown and I need to start working hard. I was just around the corner to do my fitness test. The 1st thing for me would be to pass the fitness test and hit some balls.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-australia-can-swap-hosting-t20-world-cup-in-2020-and-2021-suggests-sunil-gavaskar-293805" hreflang="en">India-Australia can swap hosting T20 World Cup in 2020 and 2021, suggests Sunil Gavaskar</a>

"The last ball I played was on February 2. That's when I got injured. I am just looking forward to going out there and playing and doing what I love the most."

Earlier, Cricket Australia chief executive Kevin Roberts had said that they will lose “hundreds of millions” if the international season, in Australia, is affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. 
&nbsp;

Indian cricket team's limited-overs vice-captain, Rohit Sharma reckons teams will be given enough time to prepare for the ICC T20 World Cup given the showpiece event goes ahead as planned.

Indian cricket team's limited-overs vice-captain, Rohit Sharma reckons teams will be given enough time to prepare for the ICC T20 World Cup given the showpiece event goes ahead as planned. The ICC T20 World Cup is scheduled to be hosted by Australia in October-November but the COVID-19 pandemic and the 6-month lockdown period that is enforced Down Under to curb the spread of the dreaded virus. The Indian opener said that nobody is sure when the T20 World Cup will take place but whenever it does the cricket boards and ICC will provide preparation time to all the teams as nobody is training or playing during the ongoing lockdown phase. Rohit is of the view that players need to go out on the field and start training in a bid to get into a rhythm while adding the last ball he faced was on February 2 when he suffered a calf injury while playing against New Zealand. ALSO READ: Exclusive: 'Cricket is just not a sport for me, it is what I live for' - Smriti Mandhana opens up on her love for the game, rapport with Jemimah and much more "You need to go out there and start training" "We are really not sure when this World Cup (T20 World Cup) is going to happen. As and when it happens, we will have a fair amount of time to prepare for it. The cricket boards around the world are not going to say 'everything is fine; we will schedule the World Cup'. Of course, preparation time is going to be given for all the countries because all the countries are under lockdown. Nobody's playing, nobody's training. The limited stuff at home is not enough," Rohit told a news portal. "You need to go out there and start training and get into the routine and get your muscles strong. Especially for me, I was just injured before the lockdown and I need to start working hard. I was just around the corner to do my fitness test. The 1st thing for me would be to pass the fitness test and hit some balls. ALSO READ: India-Australia can swap hosting T20 World Cup in 2020 and 2021, suggests Sunil Gavaskar "The last ball I played was on February 2. That's when I got injured. I am just looking forward to going out there and playing and doing what I love the most." Earlier, Cricket Australia chief executive Kevin Roberts had said that they will lose “hundreds of millions” if the international season, in Australia, is affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Hope teams will be given time to prepare for ICC T20 World Cup: Rohit Sharma

With COVID-19 pandemic shattering the sporting calendar, there’s a sense of uncertainty surrounding the fate of ICC T20 World Cup, which is scheduled to be played in Australia in October-November. Indian head coach, Ravi Shastri gave his take on the future of the showpiece event as he said there is so much uncertainty surrounding sporting events that it is impossible to assure anything at this period of time.

Shastri is of the view that sports seem an extremely minuscule part of life under such circumstances while adding whenever sporting actions resumes, it will put smiles on the faces of people. The former Indian all-rounder further said that sports will contribute to the mental and psychological well-being but urged everyone not to lose sight of the present in chasing the future.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ddca-secretary-vinod-tihara-in-meerut-jail-for-past-1-month-colleagues-thought-he-had-covid-19-294013" hreflang="en">DDCA secretary Vinod Tihara in Meerut jail for past 1 month, colleagues thought he had COVID-19</a>

“Will we have the Twenty20 World Cup in Australia in October? We don’t know really, do we? There is so much uncertainty currently that it will be impossible to state with any assurance when even thought will be given to the resumption of sporting activities,” Shastri told a news portal.

“Sport seems a very minuscule part of life under the circumstances, though I do feel that as and when we do get underway, it will definitely put smiles on the faces of people. I personally feel it will contribute to emotional and psychological well-being, but again, that’s in the future and as I’ve maintained, let’s not lose sight of the present in chasing the future,” the Indian head coach added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-have-to-see-how-bcci-reacts-to-cricket-australias-proposal-of-hosting-5-test-series-at-single-venue-293973" hreflang="en">'We have to see how...' - BCCI reacts to Cricket Australia's proposal of hosting 5-Test series at single venue</a>

There’s a lot of talk surrounding ICC T20 World Cup with Cricket Australia (CA) fearing losses to the tune of ‘millions of dollars’ given the international season, in Australia, is affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

With COVID-19 pandemic shattering the sporting calendar, there’s a sense of uncertainty surrounding the fate of ICC T20 World Cup, which is scheduled to be played in Australia in October-November.

With COVID-19 pandemic shattering the sporting calendar, there’s a sense of uncertainty surrounding the fate of ICC T20 World Cup, which is scheduled to be played in Australia in October-November. Indian head coach, Ravi Shastri gave his take on the future of the showpiece event as he said there is so much uncertainty surrounding sporting events that it is impossible to assure anything at this period of time. Shastri is of the view that sports seem an extremely minuscule part of life under such circumstances while adding whenever sporting actions resumes, it will put smiles on the faces of people. The former Indian all-rounder further said that sports will contribute to the mental and psychological well-being but urged everyone not to lose sight of the present in chasing the future. ALSO READ: DDCA secretary Vinod Tihara in Meerut jail for past 1 month, colleagues thought he had COVID-19 “Will we have the Twenty20 World Cup in Australia in October? We don’t know really, do we? There is so much uncertainty currently that it will be impossible to state with any assurance when even thought will be given to the resumption of sporting activities,” Shastri told a news portal. “Sport seems a very minuscule part of life under the circumstances, though I do feel that as and when we do get underway, it will definitely put smiles on the faces of people. I personally feel it will contribute to emotional and psychological well-being, but again, that’s in the future and as I’ve maintained, let’s not lose sight of the present in chasing the future,” the Indian head coach added. ALSO READ: 'We have to see how...' - BCCI reacts to Cricket Australia's proposal of hosting 5-Test series at single venue There’s a lot of talk surrounding ICC T20 World Cup with Cricket Australia (CA) fearing losses to the tune of ‘millions of dollars’ given the international season, in Australia, is affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Team India head coach Ravi Shastri opines on future of ICC T20 World Cup

Controversial Delhi and Districts Cricket Association (DDCA) general secretary Vinod Tihara is currently in jail for allegedly failing to "comply with GST norms" after going "incommunicado" amid speculation that he was self-isolating with symptoms of COVID-19.

"A Delhi resident named Vinod Tihara was arrested by Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) wing of Noida on March 17 on allegations of violations of GST norms and is currently in Meerut jail," SSP Meerut, Ajay Sahni, told PTI.

There was no immediate clarity on the exact nature of the violation he has been accused of committing.

Tihara is Delhi cricket's representative at the BCCI and an influential figure in state's cricket body.

Tihara had been "unreachable" since mid-March leaving DDCA officials, including members of his faction, flummoxed.

"For the longest time, we were under the impression that Vinod ji has tested positive for COVID-19. One or two people who contacted his family members were told that he is under isolation. His phone is switched off for the past one month," a senior DDCA office-bearer told PTI.

During a recent online hearing in a matter of financial misappropriation of funds, organised by DDCA ombudsman Justice (Retd) Deepak Verma via Skype, one of the body's lawyers, known for his proximity to Tihara, told the apex council members that he had tested positive for novel coronavirus.

"We all freaked out as we had met Tihara till March 15 at various places. We told him that why weren't we informed as we all needed to quarantine ourselves.

"He then changed track and said that if you people would have been COVID-19 positive, then you would have known by now. It was very suspicious," the Apex Council member who was suspended that day, said.

In fact, some of the members are now wondering how did a letter signed by Tihara in support of one of the lawyers, whose service was being terminated, was submitted to Ombudsman, when all this while he had been in jail.

It is understood that because of the lockdown, his bail plea has been deferred.

Controversial Delhi and Districts Cricket Association (DDCA) general secretary Vinod Tihara is currently in jail for allegedly failing to "comply with GST norms" after going "incommunicado" amid speculation that he was self-isolating with symptoms of COVID-19.

Controversial Delhi and Districts Cricket Association (DDCA) general secretary Vinod Tihara is currently in jail for allegedly failing to "comply with GST norms" after going "incommunicado" amid speculation that he was self-isolating with symptoms of COVID-19. "A Delhi resident named Vinod Tihara was arrested by Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) wing of Noida on March 17 on allegations of violations of GST norms and is currently in Meerut jail," SSP Meerut, Ajay Sahni, told PTI. There was no immediate clarity on the exact nature of the violation he has been accused of committing. Tihara is Delhi cricket's representative at the BCCI and an influential figure in state's cricket body. Tihara had been "unreachable" since mid-March leaving DDCA officials, including members of his faction, flummoxed. "For the longest time, we were under the impression that Vinod ji has tested positive for COVID-19. One or two people who contacted his family members were told that he is under isolation. His phone is switched off for the past one month," a senior DDCA office-bearer told PTI. During a recent online hearing in a matter of financial misappropriation of funds, organised by DDCA ombudsman Justice (Retd) Deepak Verma via Skype, one of the body's lawyers, known for his proximity to Tihara, told the apex council members that he had tested positive for novel coronavirus. "We all freaked out as we had met Tihara till March 15 at various places. We told him that why weren't we informed as we all needed to quarantine ourselves. "He then changed track and said that if you people would have been COVID-19 positive, then you would have known by now. It was very suspicious," the Apex Council member who was suspended that day, said. In fact, some of the members are now wondering how did a letter signed by Tihara in support of one of the lawyers, whose service was being terminated, was submitted to Ombudsman, when all this while he had been in jail. It is understood that because of the lockdown, his bail plea has been deferred.

DDCA secretary Vinod Tihara in Meerut jail for past 1 month, colleagues thought he had COVID-19

With COVID-19 pandemic wiping out the entire sporting calendar, sports bodies have been subjected to massive losses due to series and tournaments getting cancelled or postponed. Cricket Australia chief executive Kevin Roberts on Tuesday said that the four-match Test series between Australia and India, scheduled to be played later in 2020, could be extended to a five-match series with the entire rubber to be possibly played at a single venue.&nbsp;

A Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) official has reacted to the proposal while stating the Indian cricket board hasn’t given it a thought yet as Australia is in lockdown until the end of September. The official added that they will see how CA plans to organize the ICC T20 World Cup and depending on that, the bilateral series between India and Australia will be planned out.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-cricket-is-just-not-a-sport-for-me-it-is-what-i-live-for-smriti-mandhana-opens-up-on-her-love-for-the-game-rapport-with-jemimah-and-much-more-293856" hreflang="en">Exclusive: 'Cricket is just not a sport for me, it is what I live for' - Smriti Mandhana opens up on her love for the game, rapport with Jemimah and much more</a>

“We haven’t given it a thought as yet. We have a World Cup and Australia is in lockdown (the country has closed its borders to all foreigners for six months) until the end of September. We have to see how they go for that (T20 World Cup). Depending on that, the bilateral series will be worked out," a BCCI official was quoted as saying by a leading daily.

Earlier, Roberts had said that CA is trying their best while exploring all viable options for the T20 World Cup and the bilateral series against India. Roberts added that they are ruling out the possibility of playing a five-match Test series against India at the same venue.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-australia-can-swap-hosting-t20-world-cup-in-2020-and-2021-suggests-sunil-gavaskar-293805" hreflang="en">India-Australia can swap hosting T20 World Cup in 2020 and 2021, suggests Sunil Gavaskar</a>

“Whether or not there are people at the venue or not; we will explore all viable options. Fortunately, we have a little bit of time to work through the different scenarios with the India series. But we are not ruling out any possibility for that at this point in time,” Roberts said about India vs Australia Test series which could see them make up some of the losses. 
&nbsp;

With COVID-19 pandemic wiping out the entire sporting calendar, sports bodies have been subjected to massive losses due to series and tournaments getting cancelled or postponed.

With COVID-19 pandemic wiping out the entire sporting calendar, sports bodies have been subjected to massive losses due to series and tournaments getting cancelled or postponed. Cricket Australia chief executive Kevin Roberts on Tuesday said that the four-match Test series between Australia and India, scheduled to be played later in 2020, could be extended to a five-match series with the entire rubber to be possibly played at a single venue. A Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) official has reacted to the proposal while stating the Indian cricket board hasn’t given it a thought yet as Australia is in lockdown until the end of September. The official added that they will see how CA plans to organize the ICC T20 World Cup and depending on that, the bilateral series between India and Australia will be planned out. ALSO READ: Exclusive: 'Cricket is just not a sport for me, it is what I live for' - Smriti Mandhana opens up on her love for the game, rapport with Jemimah and much more “We haven’t given it a thought as yet. We have a World Cup and Australia is in lockdown (the country has closed its borders to all foreigners for six months) until the end of September. We have to see how they go for that (T20 World Cup). Depending on that, the bilateral series will be worked out," a BCCI official was quoted as saying by a leading daily. Earlier, Roberts had said that CA is trying their best while exploring all viable options for the T20 World Cup and the bilateral series against India. Roberts added that they are ruling out the possibility of playing a five-match Test series against India at the same venue. ALSO READ: India-Australia can swap hosting T20 World Cup in 2020 and 2021, suggests Sunil Gavaskar “Whether or not there are people at the venue or not; we will explore all viable options. Fortunately, we have a little bit of time to work through the different scenarios with the India series. But we are not ruling out any possibility for that at this point in time,” Roberts said about India vs Australia Test series which could see them make up some of the losses.

'We have to see how...' - BCCI reacts to Cricket Australia's proposal of hosting 5-Test series at single venue

Prithvi Shaw has said the time away from the field, when he was serving a doping ban, was a ‘torture’ for him but the Young Indian batsman added that the phase made him hungrier for runs.&nbsp;

The 20-year-old was suspended by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in July 2019 until November 15 for ‘inadvertently’ taking a prohibited substance, found in cough syrups. Shaw admitted that while doubts and questions arose, he kept faith and belief in his talent.&nbsp;

"It was a mistake. And the period away from cricket was torture," Shaw said while interacting with fans during an Instagram Live session on his IPL franchise Delhi Capitals' official handle.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-have-to-see-how-bcci-reacts-to-cricket-australias-proposal-of-hosting-5-test-series-at-single-venue-293973" hreflang="en">'We have to see how...' - BCCI reacts to Cricket Australia's proposal of hosting 5-Test series at single venue</a>

"Doubts and questions arise, but I kept the faith and belief. I spent some time in London where I was working on my fitness, as I wasn't allowed to bat anywhere. When the ban got over, and I returned to domestic cricket, I was hungrier than before.

"I picked up my bat and realised I hadn't lost my touch at all. If anything, that time off made me a more determined person," he said.

Mental health is another aspect which is being discussed a lot as almost the entire world continues to remain under lockdown to curb the spread of COVID-19. Shaw is of the view that it is a great time to work on it while adding that learning new things and perfecting it will help one grow calmer and become more patient.

"A lot of us don't have the patience for things in life, so now is a great time to work on it. Everyone should find something to do that they like, and work towards perfecting that. That process in itself will help one grow calmer and become more patient," he said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-cricket-is-just-not-a-sport-for-me-it-is-what-i-live-for-smriti-mandhana-opens-up-on-her-love-for-the-game-rapport-with-jemimah-and-much-more-293856" hreflang="en">Exclusive: 'Cricket is just not a sport for me, it is what I live for' - Smriti Mandhana opens up on her love for the game, rapport with Jemimah and much more</a>

While players have been restricted to train indoors during the lockdown period, Shaw said he is working out indoors and shadow practising to maintain his fitness levels

"I've been working out a bit indoors and shadow practising to maintain my fitness levels.

"I've also been helping my father in the kitchen. I can cook eggs quite well, and I'm trying to learn a few new things. I've been playing some PUBG too."

Prithvi Shaw has said the time away from the field, when he was serving a doping ban, was a ‘torture’ for him but the Young Indian batsman added that the phase made him hungrier for runs.

Prithvi Shaw has said the time away from the field, when he was serving a doping ban, was a ‘torture’ for him but the Young Indian batsman added that the phase made him hungrier for runs. The 20-year-old was suspended by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in July 2019 until November 15 for ‘inadvertently’ taking a prohibited substance, found in cough syrups. Shaw admitted that while doubts and questions arose, he kept faith and belief in his talent. "It was a mistake. And the period away from cricket was torture," Shaw said while interacting with fans during an Instagram Live session on his IPL franchise Delhi Capitals' official handle. ALSO READ: 'We have to see how...' - BCCI reacts to Cricket Australia's proposal of hosting 5-Test series at single venue "Doubts and questions arise, but I kept the faith and belief. I spent some time in London where I was working on my fitness, as I wasn't allowed to bat anywhere. When the ban got over, and I returned to domestic cricket, I was hungrier than before. "I picked up my bat and realised I hadn't lost my touch at all. If anything, that time off made me a more determined person," he said. Mental health is another aspect which is being discussed a lot as almost the entire world continues to remain under lockdown to curb the spread of COVID-19. Shaw is of the view that it is a great time to work on it while adding that learning new things and perfecting it will help one grow calmer and become more patient. "A lot of us don't have the patience for things in life, so now is a great time to work on it. Everyone should find something to do that they like, and work towards perfecting that. That process in itself will help one grow calmer and become more patient," he said. ALSO READ: Exclusive: 'Cricket is just not a sport for me, it is what I live for' - Smriti Mandhana opens up on her love for the game, rapport with Jemimah and much more While players have been restricted to train indoors during the lockdown period, Shaw said he is working out indoors and shadow practising to maintain his fitness levels "I've been working out a bit indoors and shadow practising to maintain my fitness levels. "I've also been helping my father in the kitchen. I can cook eggs quite well, and I'm trying to learn a few new things. I've been playing some PUBG too."

Period away from cricket was like torture but made me hungrier for runs: Prithvi Shaw

The Premier League and all the clubs have been urged to block the much-talked-about takeover of Newcastle United by its overseas TV partner beIN Sports. Newcastle United are on the verge of a £300m-plus takeover by Saudi-backed consortium PCP Capitals, involving Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

The Magpies could be handed over to the consortium, involving financier Amanda Staveley, in the next couple of weeks given the Premier Leagues’ Owners and Directors’ Test is completed. However, Qatar-based broadcaster beIN Sports has said that Saudi Arabia should be held accountable for its involvement in a pirate TV network, which broadcasts Premier League matches illegally.&nbsp;

The network, named beoutQ, first began live-streaming sporting events, illegally, in the year 2017. The Premier League has been among a number of organisations and sporting bodies who have asked Arabsat to stop providing a channel for a pirate network.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dutch-top-flight-likely-over-after-government-extends-ban-293965" hreflang="en">Dutch top flight likely over after government extends ban</a>

In July 2019, the Premier League said that it had spoken to nine law firms in Saudi Arabia, who simply refused to pursue a copyright complaint against beoutQ.

BeIN Sports are Premier League’s biggest overseas broadcast partner with their deal costing £500million for three years

Yousef al-Obaidly, the chief executive of beIN, has written to all 20 Premier League while petitioning the governing bodies’ chief executive, Richard Masters.

“The danger of allowing the acquisition of a controlling or material interest (whether acquired directly or indirectly) in a major Premier League club by what is effectively the Saudi Arabian government cannot be ignored given the country's past and continuing illegal actions and their direct impact upon the commercial interests of the Premier League, its member clubs, its broadcast partners and football in general.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/german-football-plans-may-return-but-debate-rages-293964" hreflang="en">German football plans May return but debate rages</a>

“As a longstanding partner and huge investor in the Premier League, we urge you to consider carefully all the implications of doing so.”

He adds: “The legacy of the illegal service will continue to impact you going forward.

“When the Premier League season re-commences in the coming months, all of the league’s broadcasters’ content will continue to be readily and illegally available via the IPTV streaming functionality on the beoutQ set-top-boxes which were sold in significant quantities in Saudi Arabia and the broader MENA (the Middle East and North Africa) region.

“Furthermore – given the crippling economic effect that coronavirus is having on the sports industry – this is all happening at a time when football clubs need to protect their broadcast revenue the most.”

Saudi Arabia and Qatar have been under political dispute since 2017. 
&nbsp;

The Premier League and all the clubs have been urged to block the much-talked-about takeover of Newcastle United by its overseas TV partner beIN Sports. Newcastle United are on the verge of a £300m-plus takeover by Saudi-backed consortium PCP Capitals, involving Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

The Premier League and all the clubs have been urged to block the much-talked-about takeover of Newcastle United by its overseas TV partner beIN Sports. Newcastle United are on the verge of a £300m-plus takeover by Saudi-backed consortium PCP Capitals, involving Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The Magpies could be handed over to the consortium, involving financier Amanda Staveley, in the next couple of weeks given the Premier Leagues’ Owners and Directors’ Test is completed. However, Qatar-based broadcaster beIN Sports has said that Saudi Arabia should be held accountable for its involvement in a pirate TV network, which broadcasts Premier League matches illegally. The network, named beoutQ, first began live-streaming sporting events, illegally, in the year 2017. The Premier League has been among a number of organisations and sporting bodies who have asked Arabsat to stop providing a channel for a pirate network. ALSO READ: Dutch top flight likely over after government extends ban In July 2019, the Premier League said that it had spoken to nine law firms in Saudi Arabia, who simply refused to pursue a copyright complaint against beoutQ. BeIN Sports are Premier League’s biggest overseas broadcast partner with their deal costing £500million for three years Yousef al-Obaidly, the chief executive of beIN, has written to all 20 Premier League while petitioning the governing bodies’ chief executive, Richard Masters. “The danger of allowing the acquisition of a controlling or material interest (whether acquired directly or indirectly) in a major Premier League club by what is effectively the Saudi Arabian government cannot be ignored given the country's past and continuing illegal actions and their direct impact upon the commercial interests of the Premier League, its member clubs, its broadcast partners and football in general. ALSO READ: German football plans May return but debate rages “As a longstanding partner and huge investor in the Premier League, we urge you to consider carefully all the implications of doing so.” He adds: “The legacy of the illegal service will continue to impact you going forward. “When the Premier League season re-commences in the coming months, all of the league’s broadcasters’ content will continue to be readily and illegally available via the IPTV streaming functionality on the beoutQ set-top-boxes which were sold in significant quantities in Saudi Arabia and the broader MENA (the Middle East and North Africa) region. “Furthermore – given the crippling economic effect that coronavirus is having on the sports industry – this is all happening at a time when football clubs need to protect their broadcast revenue the most.” Saudi Arabia and Qatar have been under political dispute since 2017.

Premier League clubs urged to combine and block £300 million Newcastle United takeover

La Liga and the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) have agreed a return to training protocol for professional players in the country after the coronavirus outbreak, the Spanish National Sports Council (CSD) announced on Monday.

Spain's top division has been suspended since March 12 due to the COVID-19 outbreak which has so far killed more than 20,800 people, the third-highest number of deaths in the world after the United States and Italy.

"This decision remains controlled by the evolution of the COVID-19 pandemic and by the decisions adopted by the Ministry of Health," the CSD said in a statement.

La Liga clubs will train again "when health conditions allow it, and by following strict health protocols," it added.

According to local media reports La Liga has already outlined a proposition which includes testing players as well as a progression from individual training to sessions with whole squads.&nbsp;

League chief Javier Tebas last week said play could restart as early as next month, although a fortnight extension of the nationwide lockdown until May 9 announced on Saturday appears to have scuppered those plans.

During the weekend's meeting between La Liga, the RFEF and the CSD, which reportedly took more than eight hours, the trio decided television income from football would be used to save other sports.

"The La Liga presidents and the federation have committed to create a contingency fund of 10 million euros ($10.86 million) to help vulnerable sports, and have invited other entities like the players union to take part," the CSD's statement said.

La Liga and the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) have agreed a return to training protocol for professional players in the country after the coronavirus outbreak, the Spanish National Sports Council (CSD) announced on Monday.

La Liga and the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) have agreed a return to training protocol for professional players in the country after the coronavirus outbreak, the Spanish National Sports Council (CSD) announced on Monday. Spain's top division has been suspended since March 12 due to the COVID-19 outbreak which has so far killed more than 20,800 people, the third-highest number of deaths in the world after the United States and Italy. "This decision remains controlled by the evolution of the COVID-19 pandemic and by the decisions adopted by the Ministry of Health," the CSD said in a statement. La Liga clubs will train again "when health conditions allow it, and by following strict health protocols," it added. According to local media reports La Liga has already outlined a proposition which includes testing players as well as a progression from individual training to sessions with whole squads. League chief Javier Tebas last week said play could restart as early as next month, although a fortnight extension of the nationwide lockdown until May 9 announced on Saturday appears to have scuppered those plans. During the weekend's meeting between La Liga, the RFEF and the CSD, which reportedly took more than eight hours, the trio decided television income from football would be used to save other sports. "The La Liga presidents and the federation have committed to create a contingency fund of 10 million euros ($10.86 million) to help vulnerable sports, and have invited other entities like the players union to take part," the CSD's statement said.

La Liga, Spanish FA agree training restart protocol

Serie A insisted Monday that they were committed to finishing the season despite reports seven clubs are against a return to action as the coronavirus pandemic continues to afflict Italy.

"The Lega Serie A Council that met today unanimously confirmed its intention to complete the 2019-2020 season, if the government allows it to take place," Italy's top flight said in a statement

It added that any resumption will take place "in accordance with regulations laid out by FIFA and UEFA" and the Italian Football Federation (FIGC), and "in compliance with medical protocols to protect the players".

Brescia, Torino, Sampdoria, Udinese, SPAL, Genoa and Sardinian outfit Cagliari do not want to play because of the "incalculable risk" of restarting, according to reports in Italy.

Six of those clubs are situated in the north of Italy which has been hardest hit by a virus which has killed over 24,000 people.

No football has been played in Italy since March 9 with the current lockdown measures in the country extended to May 3.

Sports minister Vincenzo Spadafora will meet with FIGC officials midweek, but he warned he was not sure that Serie A teams can even resume training.

"I am not giving any assurances for the start of the championship or training on May 4, if the conditions for the country do not exist beforehand," Spadafora told Tg2 Post.

"Sport is not just football and it is not only Serie A," he added.

"I will evaluate very carefully, but this must not create the illusion that resuming training means resuming the championship."

Meanwhile, Torino's team doctor Rodolfo Tavana, who held the position of the Serie A's representative on the FIGC's medical commission,&nbsp;resigned on Monday.

Tavana was appointed to the commission to help formulate the protocol for the resumption of football.

Serie A insisted Monday that they were committed to finishing the season despite reports seven clubs are against a return to action as the coronavirus pandemic continues to afflict Italy.

Serie A insisted Monday that they were committed to finishing the season despite reports seven clubs are against a return to action as the coronavirus pandemic continues to afflict Italy. "The Lega Serie A Council that met today unanimously confirmed its intention to complete the 2019-2020 season, if the government allows it to take place," Italy's top flight said in a statement It added that any resumption will take place "in accordance with regulations laid out by FIFA and UEFA" and the Italian Football Federation (FIGC), and "in compliance with medical protocols to protect the players". Brescia, Torino, Sampdoria, Udinese, SPAL, Genoa and Sardinian outfit Cagliari do not want to play because of the "incalculable risk" of restarting, according to reports in Italy. Six of those clubs are situated in the north of Italy which has been hardest hit by a virus which has killed over 24,000 people. No football has been played in Italy since March 9 with the current lockdown measures in the country extended to May 3. Sports minister Vincenzo Spadafora will meet with FIGC officials midweek, but he warned he was not sure that Serie A teams can even resume training. "I am not giving any assurances for the start of the championship or training on May 4, if the conditions for the country do not exist beforehand," Spadafora told Tg2 Post. "Sport is not just football and it is not only Serie A," he added. "I will evaluate very carefully, but this must not create the illusion that resuming training means resuming the championship." Meanwhile, Torino's team doctor Rodolfo Tavana, who held the position of the Serie A's representative on the FIGC's medical commission, resigned on Monday. Tavana was appointed to the commission to help formulate the protocol for the resumption of football.

Serie A commits to finishing season after virus lockdown

Barcelona are set to sell their title rights for one year in a bid to raise funds for the battle against the COVID-19 pandemic. Interestingly, Barcelona’s home stadium, Camp Nou – one of the biggest stadiums in Europe with more than 99,000 seating capacity, has never had a title sponsor since it was inaugurated in 1957.

Barcelona vice-president Jordi Cardoner, who recovered after contracting the dreaded COVID-19, revealed that the club is providing very quick response to raise funds during an emergency situation. The Spanish giants had plans to sell the stadium’s title rights in the 2023-24 season in a hope to bring 300 million Euros for a 25-year-old contract to pay for the renovation of the stadium and other facilities.

“We want to send a universal message: For the first time someone will have the opportunity to put their name on Camp Nou and the revenues will go to all of humanity, not just Barca,” club vice president Jordi Cardoner was quoted as saying.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/contracts-exchanged-and-deposit-paid-newcastle-united-takeover-set-to-be-completed-in-blockbuster-move-293818" hreflang="en">Contracts exchanged and deposit paid: Newcastle United takeover set to be completed in blockbuster move</a>

“The initiative arose in an emergency situation. We think that we have to have a very quick response, putting our crown jewel at the service (of the fight).?”

Cardoner further said if possible sponsors for the one-year-deal want to include the prospect of a long-term deal then Barcelona would consider it while adding that the Blaugrana want to listen to offers with whom they could team up and provide more funds to combat the coronavirus.

“Camp Nou is sending out an S.O.S.,” Cardoner said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mesut-ozil-refuses-to-take-pay-cut-despite-being-highest-earner-at-arsenal-293800" hreflang="en">Mesut Ozil refuses to take pay-cut despite being highest earner at Arsenal</a>

“We are open to everything. We want to maximize economic participation and to ensure that the partners share our same social values.”

The stadium will maintain the name ‘Camp Nou’ in addition to including the sponsor, the club said.

After Barcelona finds a new sponsor, the decision will then have to be approved by a general assembly of club members of around 140,000 – which is likely to be held in October.

Meanwhile, more than 20,000 people have died in Spain, a death toll second only to the United States.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Barcelona are set to sell their title rights for one year in a bid to raise funds for the battle against the COVID-19 pandemic. Interestingly, Barcelona’s home stadium, Camp Nou – one of the biggest stadiums in Europe with more than 99,000 seating capacity, has never had a title sponsor since it was inaugurated in 1957.

Barcelona are set to sell their title rights for one year in a bid to raise funds for the battle against the COVID-19 pandemic. Interestingly, Barcelona’s home stadium, Camp Nou – one of the biggest stadiums in Europe with more than 99,000 seating capacity, has never had a title sponsor since it was inaugurated in 1957. Barcelona vice-president Jordi Cardoner, who recovered after contracting the dreaded COVID-19, revealed that the club is providing very quick response to raise funds during an emergency situation. The Spanish giants had plans to sell the stadium’s title rights in the 2023-24 season in a hope to bring 300 million Euros for a 25-year-old contract to pay for the renovation of the stadium and other facilities. “We want to send a universal message: For the first time someone will have the opportunity to put their name on Camp Nou and the revenues will go to all of humanity, not just Barca,” club vice president Jordi Cardoner was quoted as saying. ALSO READ: Contracts exchanged and deposit paid: Newcastle United takeover set to be completed in blockbuster move “The initiative arose in an emergency situation. We think that we have to have a very quick response, putting our crown jewel at the service (of the fight).?” Cardoner further said if possible sponsors for the one-year-deal want to include the prospect of a long-term deal then Barcelona would consider it while adding that the Blaugrana want to listen to offers with whom they could team up and provide more funds to combat the coronavirus. “Camp Nou is sending out an S.O.S.,” Cardoner said. ALSO READ: Mesut Ozil refuses to take pay-cut despite being highest earner at Arsenal “We are open to everything. We want to maximize economic participation and to ensure that the partners share our same social values.” The stadium will maintain the name ‘Camp Nou’ in addition to including the sponsor, the club said. After Barcelona finds a new sponsor, the decision will then have to be approved by a general assembly of club members of around 140,000 – which is likely to be held in October. Meanwhile, more than 20,000 people have died in Spain, a death toll second only to the United States.

Barcelona to sell title rights of Camp Nou to raise funds for COVID-19 battle

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