Belarus is the only country in Europe still playing professional football matches with spectators in the stands. Even though the COVID-19 pandemic has led to a major shrunk in the live crowd, people are still heading to stadiums to watch their favourite football clubs in action. Empty seats could be a major turn off during football matches but the Belarusian clubs have found a way to hide those empty seats and fill it with fans – by placing dummies.&nbsp;

<img alt="Coronavirus outbreak: Belarus postpones women's soccer but men's league continues" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="69390980-37af-487e-9cda-ac5f3270b682" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1QK1NF.jpg" />

The start of women’s football season in Belarus has been delayed by fears that the players may have gotten exposed to the COVID-19 but the men’s league continues to drive in full flow. The women’s league was scheduled to start with the 2020 season on Thursday (April 16) but the Belarus soccer federation suspended it ‘until further notice’. The federation added that ‘several’ players had contact with ‘possible carries’ of the coronavirus.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/humour-most-important-in-getting-through-difficult-situations-says-james-neesham-293084" hreflang="en">Humour most important in getting through difficult situations, says James Neesham</a>

Dummies have replaced fans, face masks are being used to fulfil the emotions that a crowd brings with itself. But the question remains, is it worth risking the lives of possibly hundreds of people attending the game? What about the footballers, who may contract the virus?&nbsp;

<img alt="Coronavirus outbreak: Belarus postpones women's soccer but men's league continues" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ab10f897-dea0-4814-ba04-e4df318fbf78" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1QK1NT.jpg" />

Even though the Belarusian league has attracted fans from others countries in lockdown and signed new foreign TV deals, as per reports, does it really fulfil the void of absolutely no live sports during the time when millions of people are struggling to cope with the dreaded COVID-19, worldwide?&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/qatar-reports-three-new-virus-cases-at-world-cup-sites-293081" hreflang="en">Qatar reports three new virus cases at World Cup sites</a>

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Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has strictly opposed strict lockdown measures while playing an ice hockey game in front of spectators in the month of March. Whereas Sports and Tourism Minister Sergei Kovalchuk defended the move by saying that no one is forcing people to come and watch live matches.

<img alt="Coronavirus outbreak: Belarus postpones women's soccer but men's league continues" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="237e46b6-106e-4a53-a24d-fcc0dc4d2b67" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1QK1S8.jpg" />

“There is no basis to close down the championship. Nowadays, the number of fans has shrunk by more than 70 per cent," Kovalchuk said. "No one is forcing anyone to go to the stadium. You can go, or not go," Sports and Tourism Minister Kovalchuk said.

Belarus has recorded 4,779 cases of the COVID-19 as of Friday with 42 deaths. But as the bloodbath continues, the question remains, is holding sporting event&nbsp;really worth it, at the moment?

 
&nbsp;

Belarus is the only country in Europe still playing professional football matches with spectators in the stands. Even though the COVID-19 pandemic has led to a major shrunk in the live crowd, people are still heading to stadiums to watch their favourite football clubs in action.

Belarus is the only country in Europe still playing professional football matches with spectators in the stands. Even though the COVID-19 pandemic has led to a major shrunk in the live crowd, people are still heading to stadiums to watch their favourite football clubs in action. Empty seats could be a major turn off during football matches but the Belarusian clubs have found a way to hide those empty seats and fill it with fans – by placing dummies. The start of women’s football season in Belarus has been delayed by fears that the players may have gotten exposed to the COVID-19 but the men’s league continues to drive in full flow. The women’s league was scheduled to start with the 2020 season on Thursday (April 16) but the Belarus soccer federation suspended it ‘until further notice’. The federation added that ‘several’ players had contact with ‘possible carries’ of the coronavirus. ALSO READ: Humour most important in getting through difficult situations, says James Neesham Dummies have replaced fans, face masks are being used to fulfil the emotions that a crowd brings with itself. But the question remains, is it worth risking the lives of possibly hundreds of people attending the game? What about the footballers, who may contract the virus? Even though the Belarusian league has attracted fans from others countries in lockdown and signed new foreign TV deals, as per reports, does it really fulfil the void of absolutely no live sports during the time when millions of people are struggling to cope with the dreaded COVID-19, worldwide? ALSO READ: Qatar reports three new virus cases at World Cup sites Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has strictly opposed strict lockdown measures while playing an ice hockey game in front of spectators in the month of March. Whereas Sports and Tourism Minister Sergei Kovalchuk defended the move by saying that no one is forcing people to come and watch live matches. “There is no basis to close down the championship. Nowadays, the number of fans has shrunk by more than 70 per cent," Kovalchuk said. "No one is forcing anyone to go to the stadium. You can go, or not go," Sports and Tourism Minister Kovalchuk said. Belarus has recorded 4,779 cases of the COVID-19 as of Friday with 42 deaths. But as the bloodbath continues, the question remains, is holding sporting event really worth it, at the moment?

Fans and dummies: How Belarus is conducting live football matches amid COVID-19 pandemic

A senior official of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has dismissed the reports suggesting that Sri Lanka has proposed to host the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, which has been&nbsp;proposed ‘till further notice’ following Indian government’s move to extend the countrywide lockdown to the curb the spread of COVID-19.

The board official has said that the BCCI will not be in any position to say anything regarding IPL 2020 till lockdown doesn’t end. The official further confirmed that the BCCI has not received any proposal from the Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) and hence, no discussion has taken place on that matter.

“The BCCI will not be in a position to say anything when the world is closed,” a senior Board official told PTI on conditions of anonymity.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rcb-coach-simon-katich-open-to-ipl-2020-outside-india-says-its-one-of-many-scenarios-thats-being-discussed-293101" hreflang="en">RCB coach Simon Katich open to IPL 2020 outside India, says 'it’s one of many scenarios that’s being discussed'</a>

“There is no proposal from SLC yet and obviously no discussion,” the official on being asked about the BCCI’s stand when the offer is on table.

Earlier on Thursday, a report in Sri Lankan newspaper – Lankadeepa- suggested that Sri Lanka cricket president Shammi Silva had already written to the BCCI in what was a proposal to shift the 13th edition of IPL to Sri Lanka and that the country is ready to provide all facilities in consultation with the government and medical experts.

“Apparently it will cost the BCCI and its stakeholders more than $500 million to cancel the IPL. So perhaps they can minimise those losses by hosting the tournament in another country,” Silva was quoted as saying to Sinhala daily Lankadeepa.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/my-record-in-t20s-has-been-good-dinesh-karthik-confident-of-playing-in-icc-t20-world-cup-293110" hreflang="en">'My record in T20s has been good' - Dinesh Karthik confident of playing in ICC T20 World Cup</a>

“If they play it in Sri Lanka, it’s easy for Indian audiences to watch the games on TV. There’s precedent for this because they’ve played the IPL in South Africa before. We’re waiting for the Indian board to respond to our proposal,” he added.

Speculations are rife that the BCCI could look to the October-November window for the IPL if the ICC T20 World Cup is postponed.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

A senior official of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has dismissed the reports suggesting that Sri Lanka has proposed to host the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, which has been proposed ‘till further notice’ following Indian government’s move to extend the countrywide lockdown to the curb the spread of COVID-19.

A senior official of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has dismissed the reports suggesting that Sri Lanka has proposed to host the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, which has been proposed ‘till further notice’ following Indian government’s move to extend the countrywide lockdown to the curb the spread of COVID-19. The board official has said that the BCCI will not be in any position to say anything regarding IPL 2020 till lockdown doesn’t end. The official further confirmed that the BCCI has not received any proposal from the Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) and hence, no discussion has taken place on that matter. “The BCCI will not be in a position to say anything when the world is closed,” a senior Board official told PTI on conditions of anonymity. ALSO READ: RCB coach Simon Katich open to IPL 2020 outside India, says 'it’s one of many scenarios that’s being discussed' “There is no proposal from SLC yet and obviously no discussion,” the official on being asked about the BCCI’s stand when the offer is on table. Earlier on Thursday, a report in Sri Lankan newspaper – Lankadeepa- suggested that Sri Lanka cricket president Shammi Silva had already written to the BCCI in what was a proposal to shift the 13th edition of IPL to Sri Lanka and that the country is ready to provide all facilities in consultation with the government and medical experts. “Apparently it will cost the BCCI and its stakeholders more than $500 million to cancel the IPL. So perhaps they can minimise those losses by hosting the tournament in another country,” Silva was quoted as saying to Sinhala daily Lankadeepa. ALSO READ: 'My record in T20s has been good' - Dinesh Karthik confident of playing in ICC T20 World Cup “If they play it in Sri Lanka, it’s easy for Indian audiences to watch the games on TV. There’s precedent for this because they’ve played the IPL in South Africa before. We’re waiting for the Indian board to respond to our proposal,” he added. Speculations are rife that the BCCI could look to the October-November window for the IPL if the ICC T20 World Cup is postponed.

No proposal from Sri Lanka Cricket to host IPL 2020: BCCI official

Veteran Indian wrestler Babita Phogat has been on the line of fire for posting a couple of controversial tweets slamming the much-talked-about ‘Tablighi Jamaat’ and terming them as the reason behind the spread of COVID-19 in India. While Phogat has received support from many for her ‘on your face tweets’, others have slammed the wrestler while asking for the suspension of her Twitter account. Babita has received support from various athletes like her sister Geeta Phogat, Yogeshwar Dutt, Bajrang Punia, Manu Bhaker, among others. Whereas, many social media users termed her tweet as 'anti-muslim'.&nbsp;

Babita on Friday, reacted on the controversy as she took to social media platform Twitter to post a video, where the multi-time Commonwealth Games medallist stated&nbsp;that she is not afraid of speaking her heart. Phogat revealed she has been receiving threats and hate messages on various social media platforms following her tweets in the last couple of days.&nbsp;

The veteran wrestler, who won a gold medal in 2014 Commonwealth Games, clarified that she didn’t write anything about a particular religion or community and specifically mentioned ‘Tablighi Jamaat’ as she added "had it not been for them, India would have defeated the coronavirus pandemic."

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“My greetings to all my countrymen. I had posted a tweet few days ago after which many people have been sending me all sorts of messages on Facebook, Whatsapp and Twitter. Some people have also threatened me on the phone. My message to all those people is, I am not Zaira Wasim to get scared and sit at home. I am Babita Phogat – have always fought for my country and will continue to do so,” Babita said in the video.&nbsp;

“I would want to ask all of you – isn’t Tablighi Jamaat the most discussed topic at the moment. Aren’t they responsible for spreading Coronavirus in different parts of the country? I still stand by what I tweeted. I did not write about any religion or community. I have specifically written about Tablighi Jamaats, as if it had not been for them, not only would the lockdown have been lifted, but India would have defeated Coronavirus by now. So all those people who are not used to hearing the truth, they should learn to do so as I would continue to write what’s right and speak the truth,” she added.

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यदि आप बबीता फोगाट को सपोर्ट करते हैं तो उन तक यह बात जरूर पहुंचा दीजिए और उनको बोलिए ध्यान से कान खोल कर सुन लें। <a href="https://t.co/gqec3lQwPE">pic.twitter.com/gqec3lQwPE</a>
— Babita Phogat (@BabitaPhogat) <a href="https://twitter.com/BabitaPhogat/status/1251029745191448576?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, Babita took a sly dig at ‘Tablighi Jamaat’ as she wrote that coronavirus was India’s second-most critical issue as ‘Tablighi Jamaat’ has claimed the No. 1 spot.

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कोरोना वायरस भारत की दूसरे नंबर की सबसे बड़ी समस्या है। 
 
जाहिल जमाती अभी भी पहले नंबर पर बना हुआ है।<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/jahiljamati?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#jahiljamati</a>
— Babita Phogat (@BabitaPhogat) <a href="https://twitter.com/BabitaPhogat/status/1250390859717021697?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sri-lanka-ready-to-host-ipl-2020-will-provide-all-facilities-for-tournament-slc-to-bcci-292954" hreflang="en">Sri Lanka ready to host IPL 2020, will provide all facilities for tournament: SLC to BCCI</a>

The tweet by Babita went viral in no time as she received a mixed response. A couple of hashtags - #ISupportBabitaPhogat and #SuspendBabitaPhogat – were trending on Twitter as her tweets became a topic of heated discussion on the social media platform.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the death toll due to coronavirus rose to 437 and the number of cases to 13387 in the country on Friday, according to the Union Health Ministry. 
&nbsp;

Veteran Indian wrestler Babita Phogat has been on the line of fire for posting a couple of controversial tweets slamming the much-talked-about ‘Tablighi Jamaat’ and terming them as the reason behind the spread of COVID-19 in India.

Veteran Indian wrestler Babita Phogat has been on the line of fire for posting a couple of controversial tweets slamming the much-talked-about ‘Tablighi Jamaat’ and terming them as the reason behind the spread of COVID-19 in India. While Phogat has received support from many for her ‘on your face tweets’, others have slammed the wrestler while asking for the suspension of her Twitter account. Babita has received support from various athletes like her sister Geeta Phogat, Yogeshwar Dutt, Bajrang Punia, Manu Bhaker, among others. Whereas, many social media users termed her tweet as 'anti-muslim'. Babita on Friday, reacted on the controversy as she took to social media platform Twitter to post a video, where the multi-time Commonwealth Games medallist stated that she is not afraid of speaking her heart. Phogat revealed she has been receiving threats and hate messages on various social media platforms following her tweets in the last couple of days. The veteran wrestler, who won a gold medal in 2014 Commonwealth Games, clarified that she didn’t write anything about a particular religion or community and specifically mentioned ‘Tablighi Jamaat’ as she added "had it not been for them, India would have defeated the coronavirus pandemic." ALSO READ: Indian women's hockey team to raise funds for poor affected by lockdown “My greetings to all my countrymen. I had posted a tweet few days ago after which many people have been sending me all sorts of messages on Facebook, Whatsapp and Twitter. Some people have also threatened me on the phone. My message to all those people is, I am not Zaira Wasim to get scared and sit at home. I am Babita Phogat – have always fought for my country and will continue to do so,” Babita said in the video. “I would want to ask all of you – isn’t Tablighi Jamaat the most discussed topic at the moment. Aren’t they responsible for spreading Coronavirus in different parts of the country? I still stand by what I tweeted. I did not write about any religion or community. I have specifically written about Tablighi Jamaats, as if it had not been for them, not only would the lockdown have been lifted, but India would have defeated Coronavirus by now. So all those people who are not used to hearing the truth, they should learn to do so as I would continue to write what’s right and speak the truth,” she added. यदि आप बबीता फोगाट को सपोर्ट करते हैं तो उन तक यह बात जरूर पहुंचा दीजिए और उनको बोलिए ध्यान से कान खोल कर सुन लें। pic.twitter.com/gqec3lQwPE — Babita Phogat (@BabitaPhogat) April 17, 2020 × Earlier, Babita took a sly dig at ‘Tablighi Jamaat’ as she wrote that coronavirus was India’s second-most critical issue as ‘Tablighi Jamaat’ has claimed the No. 1 spot. कोरोना वायरस भारत की दूसरे नंबर की सबसे बड़ी समस्या है। जाहिल जमाती अभी भी पहले नंबर पर बना हुआ है।#jahiljamati — Babita Phogat (@BabitaPhogat) April 15, 2020 × ALSO READ: Sri Lanka ready to host IPL 2020, will provide all facilities for tournament: SLC to BCCI The tweet by Babita went viral in no time as she received a mixed response. A couple of hashtags - #ISupportBabitaPhogat and #SuspendBabitaPhogat – were trending on Twitter as her tweets became a topic of heated discussion on the social media platform. Meanwhile, the death toll due to coronavirus rose to 437 and the number of cases to 13387 in the country on Friday, according to the Union Health Ministry.

'I still stand by what I tweeted, not scared of threats' - Veteran wrestler Babita Phogat to critics

Since India’s semi-final defeat to New Zealand in the ICC World Cup 2019, Dinesh Karthik has found himself out the Indian side after failing to impress in the couple of games he got under his belt in the quadrennial event in England and Wales. Due to his outings in the 50-over circuit, Karthik found himself dropped from the T20I side as well but the veteran wicketkeeper-batsman reckons he stands a good chance to make a comeback to the Indian T20I side despite finding himself way down in the pecking order.&nbsp;

Since being dropped from the national side, Karthik has been scoring a decent amount of runs in the domestic circuit for Tamil Nadu and was crucial for the state side’s run in the previous season of Indian domestic cricket.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rcb-coach-simon-katich-open-to-ipl-2020-outside-india-says-its-one-of-many-scenarios-thats-being-discussed-293101" hreflang="en">RCB coach Simon Katich open to IPL 2020 outside India, says 'it’s one of many scenarios that’s being discussed'</a>

“My record in T20s has been good. A big tournament like the World Cup did not go exactly as per the plan. I could understand the one-day bit (being dropped from ODIs) but even now I would like to think that I stand a good chance in returning to the T20 side. I have done well even in the recent domestic games that I have played. I have no reason to doubt myself [that I can’t make another comeback],” Karthik told PTI.

Karthik, who is also the captain of Kolkata Knight Riders, could have staked a claim in the national side with his performance in the IPL 2020 but the COVID-19 pandemic has forced the BCCI to suspend the tournament till further notice.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/humour-most-important-in-getting-through-difficult-situations-says-james-neesham-293084" hreflang="en">Humour most important in getting through difficult situations, says James Neesham</a>

There are many fans and experts who feel Karthik was dropped by the MSK Prasad-led selection committee unfairly after a couple of blips in the World Cup and want to see the Tamil Nadu batsman back in the reckoning for the T20 World Cup.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Since India’s semi-final defeat to New Zealand in the ICC World Cup 2019, Dinesh Karthik has found himself out the Indian side after failing to impress in the couple of games he got under his belt in the quadrennial event in England and Wales.

Since India’s semi-final defeat to New Zealand in the ICC World Cup 2019, Dinesh Karthik has found himself out the Indian side after failing to impress in the couple of games he got under his belt in the quadrennial event in England and Wales. Due to his outings in the 50-over circuit, Karthik found himself dropped from the T20I side as well but the veteran wicketkeeper-batsman reckons he stands a good chance to make a comeback to the Indian T20I side despite finding himself way down in the pecking order. Since being dropped from the national side, Karthik has been scoring a decent amount of runs in the domestic circuit for Tamil Nadu and was crucial for the state side’s run in the previous season of Indian domestic cricket. ALSO READ: RCB coach Simon Katich open to IPL 2020 outside India, says 'it’s one of many scenarios that’s being discussed' “My record in T20s has been good. A big tournament like the World Cup did not go exactly as per the plan. I could understand the one-day bit (being dropped from ODIs) but even now I would like to think that I stand a good chance in returning to the T20 side. I have done well even in the recent domestic games that I have played. I have no reason to doubt myself [that I can’t make another comeback],” Karthik told PTI. Karthik, who is also the captain of Kolkata Knight Riders, could have staked a claim in the national side with his performance in the IPL 2020 but the COVID-19 pandemic has forced the BCCI to suspend the tournament till further notice. ALSO READ: Humour most important in getting through difficult situations, says James Neesham There are many fans and experts who feel Karthik was dropped by the MSK Prasad-led selection committee unfairly after a couple of blips in the World Cup and want to see the Tamil Nadu batsman back in the reckoning for the T20 World Cup.

'My record in T20s has been good' - Dinesh Karthik confident of playing in ICC T20 World Cup

The head coach of Royal Challengers Bangalore is open to the idea of conducting the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 overseas and the former Australian batsman has “no doubt” that the cash-rich league will take place later in the year. On Thursday, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) suspended IPL 2020 till further notice due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Katich said that RCB will be very happy to play the IPL somewhere in Australia or South Africa while adding their players will enjoy the conditions in Australia.&nbsp;

“Whether it would be in Australia (or elsewhere), that’s an interesting topic of conversation. There would be a few teams - us in particular at RCB, we’d be very happy for it to be played abroad, because a number of our overseas players are Australian and South African, who really would enjoy these conditions in Australia,” Katich told SEN Radio.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sri-lanka-ready-to-host-ipl-2020-will-provide-all-facilities-for-tournament-slc-to-bcci-292954" hreflang="en">Sri Lanka ready to host IPL 2020, will provide all facilities for tournament: SLC to BCCI</a>

“It would be interesting to see if that would eventuate but obviously it’s one of many scenarios that’s being discussed.”&nbsp;

If IPL 2020 is played abroad, then it will be the third time that the cash-rich tournament goes abroad after being hosted by South Africa in 2009 and UAE in 2014 due to general elections in India.&nbsp;

Katich, who replaced Gary Kirsten as the head coach of RCB following the conclusion of IPL 2019, is of the view that people have to sit tight and wait for the situation to ease out. However, Katich did admit that IPL behind closed doors would still be commercially viable.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/postponed-tokyo-olympics-to-kickstart-japan-economy-ioc-292948" hreflang="en">Postponed Tokyo Olympics 'to kickstart' Japan economy: IOC</a>

“It’s obviously the biggest T20 tournament in the world and the people there love their cricket. But I think they’re also realistic to know that they have to sit tight and wait like everyone else in the world, and ride this out however long that takes.

“There is a huge economic side to this in terms of what the IPL generates, not only for the Indian economy but also for the franchises as well, and for the BCCI. I guess the thing that has to be weighed up is … there’s probably a little bit of a difference in terms of the IPL.

“Because of the amount of eyeballs that are on the IPL in India when it’s on in April and May, it is a scenario where it is potentially still very commercially viable being played with empty stadiums, so that’s something no doubt they’ll be weighing up. 
&nbsp;

The head coach of Royal Challengers Bangalore is open to the idea of conducting the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 overseas and the former Australian batsman has “no doubt” that the cash-rich league will take place later in the year.

The head coach of Royal Challengers Bangalore is open to the idea of conducting the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 overseas and the former Australian batsman has “no doubt” that the cash-rich league will take place later in the year. On Thursday, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) suspended IPL 2020 till further notice due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Katich said that RCB will be very happy to play the IPL somewhere in Australia or South Africa while adding their players will enjoy the conditions in Australia. “Whether it would be in Australia (or elsewhere), that’s an interesting topic of conversation. There would be a few teams - us in particular at RCB, we’d be very happy for it to be played abroad, because a number of our overseas players are Australian and South African, who really would enjoy these conditions in Australia,” Katich told SEN Radio. ALSO READ: Sri Lanka ready to host IPL 2020, will provide all facilities for tournament: SLC to BCCI “It would be interesting to see if that would eventuate but obviously it’s one of many scenarios that’s being discussed.” If IPL 2020 is played abroad, then it will be the third time that the cash-rich tournament goes abroad after being hosted by South Africa in 2009 and UAE in 2014 due to general elections in India. Katich, who replaced Gary Kirsten as the head coach of RCB following the conclusion of IPL 2019, is of the view that people have to sit tight and wait for the situation to ease out. However, Katich did admit that IPL behind closed doors would still be commercially viable. ALSO READ: Postponed Tokyo Olympics 'to kickstart' Japan economy: IOC “It’s obviously the biggest T20 tournament in the world and the people there love their cricket. But I think they’re also realistic to know that they have to sit tight and wait like everyone else in the world, and ride this out however long that takes. “There is a huge economic side to this in terms of what the IPL generates, not only for the Indian economy but also for the franchises as well, and for the BCCI. I guess the thing that has to be weighed up is … there’s probably a little bit of a difference in terms of the IPL. “Because of the amount of eyeballs that are on the IPL in India when it’s on in April and May, it is a scenario where it is potentially still very commercially viable being played with empty stadiums, so that’s something no doubt they’ll be weighing up.

RCB coach Simon Katich open to IPL 2020 outside India, says 'it’s one of many scenarios that’s being discussed'

Known for his tongue-in-cheek take on life and cricket, New Zealand all-rounder Jimmy Neesham feels focussing on the funny side of things helps him cope with difficult situations like the COVID-19 pandemic currently sweeping through the world.

The coronavirus outbreak, which started in the Chinese city of Wuhan, has brought the entire world to a standstill. The deadly contagion has infected more than 20 lakh people while causing over one lakh deaths across the globe.

Asked about the role humour plays in handling difficulties, the Black Caps pacer, who keeps his fans entertained with witty one-liners on his social media accounts, said it is vital when the going gets tough.

"I think it's probably right out there, the most important one. The sport we play and the career I have had, there's plenty of downs and you've got to see the bright, funny side of it otherwise you'll just go into a dark hole," Neesham said on 'Inside my bubble' podcast.

"I'm certainly used to tough situations and this is another one. All things pass eventually and we should keep smiling and laughing and we'll all be in a better place and good to go once we come out the other side," he added.

Last month, New Zealand's ODI away series against Australia was called off after the first match and the visiting team was sent home owing to the fast-spreading virus.

Talking about the chain of events leading to the series being called off, the 29-year-old said he was amazed how quickly the situation changed.

"We were in Sydney for the ODI series and we joked about what was going on at the airport but the amount that it escalated to in the six-seven days was unbelievable.

"We played on Friday and on Saturday we were called for a meeting at two and by three we were on the bus to the airport. It was pretty quick and we were lucky to have reached home," Neesham said.

Before heading back home, the Black Caps played one ODI, which was held without any spectators.

"It was bizarre, totally different. At one point I was at long on and I could hear one security guard talking on his walkie talkie and I could also hear the voice of the other security guard on the other side of the ground. It was very strange," he recalled.

It's been little over nine months since New Zealand lost the ODI World Cup to England and the heartache of that narrow defeat still hasn't subsided, said Neesham.

Neesham scored 13 of the Black Caps' 15 runs in the dramatic tied Super Over at Lord's in July but was helpless at the other end as, with two needed to win off the final ball, Martin Guptill was run out to hand England the title on a boundary count-back.

"I thought it would soften over time but it hasn't. Maybe it will get better over the next few years," he said.

Known for his tongue-in-cheek take on life and cricket, New Zealand all-rounder Jimmy Neesham feels focussing on the funny side of things helps him cope with difficult situations like the COVID-19 pandemic currently sweeping through the world.

Known for his tongue-in-cheek take on life and cricket, New Zealand all-rounder Jimmy Neesham feels focussing on the funny side of things helps him cope with difficult situations like the COVID-19 pandemic currently sweeping through the world. The coronavirus outbreak, which started in the Chinese city of Wuhan, has brought the entire world to a standstill. The deadly contagion has infected more than 20 lakh people while causing over one lakh deaths across the globe. Asked about the role humour plays in handling difficulties, the Black Caps pacer, who keeps his fans entertained with witty one-liners on his social media accounts, said it is vital when the going gets tough. "I think it's probably right out there, the most important one. The sport we play and the career I have had, there's plenty of downs and you've got to see the bright, funny side of it otherwise you'll just go into a dark hole," Neesham said on 'Inside my bubble' podcast. "I'm certainly used to tough situations and this is another one. All things pass eventually and we should keep smiling and laughing and we'll all be in a better place and good to go once we come out the other side," he added. Last month, New Zealand's ODI away series against Australia was called off after the first match and the visiting team was sent home owing to the fast-spreading virus. Talking about the chain of events leading to the series being called off, the 29-year-old said he was amazed how quickly the situation changed. "We were in Sydney for the ODI series and we joked about what was going on at the airport but the amount that it escalated to in the six-seven days was unbelievable. "We played on Friday and on Saturday we were called for a meeting at two and by three we were on the bus to the airport. It was pretty quick and we were lucky to have reached home," Neesham said. Before heading back home, the Black Caps played one ODI, which was held without any spectators. "It was bizarre, totally different. At one point I was at long on and I could hear one security guard talking on his walkie talkie and I could also hear the voice of the other security guard on the other side of the ground. It was very strange," he recalled. It's been little over nine months since New Zealand lost the ODI World Cup to England and the heartache of that narrow defeat still hasn't subsided, said Neesham. Neesham scored 13 of the Black Caps' 15 runs in the dramatic tied Super Over at Lord's in July but was helpless at the other end as, with two needed to win off the final ball, Martin Guptill was run out to hand England the title on a boundary count-back. "I thought it would soften over time but it hasn't. Maybe it will get better over the next few years," he said.

Humour most important in getting through difficult situations, says James Neesham

The Indian women's hockey team on Friday launched a fun fitness challenge to raise funds for the migrant labourers whose families have been affected by the nationwide lockdown to combat the COVID-19 pandemic.

The 18-day challenge aims to raise money through crowdfunding to feed at least 1000 families while also encouraging people to adapt to an active lifestyle during the nationwide lockdown that has been extended till May 3.

"...Every day we are reading in the newspapers and social media about so many people struggling for food, we decided to do something to help these people as a team," captain Rani Rampal said in a Hockey India press release.

"...We thought an online fitness challenge would be the best way to do it and this way, we can also urge people to stay active during the nation-wide lockdown. Through this initiative, our goal is to raise enough funds to feed at least 1000 families," she said.

The money from the crowd-funding effort will be donated to a Delhi-based NGO Uday Foundation and the proceeds will be used to provide basic necessities for patients at various locations, migrant workers and slum dwellers.

Apart from providing food/dry ration, the fund will also be used to provide sanitary kits that will include soaps and hand sanitisers.

The challenge will see members of the Indian women's hockey team come up with fitness tasks that range from burpees, lunges, squats to spider-man pushups, pogo hops and more.

Each day, a player will give a new challenge and tag 10 people on her social media handles to take up the challenge and donate Rs. 100 for the cause.

"Everyday, we will give a fun new challenge that can be done by anybody. Those who take up the challenge can donate Rs 100 or more to the fundraiser. We really hope people support us in this cause, vice-captain Savita said.

"All of us in the Indian Women's Hockey Team come from poor economic backgrounds and we have seen days when we have struggled for food and other basics. Today we are in a position to help and we want to ensure poor people get basics like food and sanitary kits," she added.

Agreeing with Savita's views, Rani said, "A few days back when I was talking to my father and he said 'if you did not play hockey and lift us out of poverty then maybe we also would have been in the same condition as so many poor people today who are struggling to get food'.

"When he said this to me, it broke my heart. Everyone in the team has faced so many challenges due to poverty and we know the pain of not getting food. It's thanks to hockey our lives are comfortable today but not everyone is this fortunate."

Rani's father worked as a cart-puller in Shahbad Markanda, Haryana.&nbsp;

The Indian women's hockey team on Friday launched a fun fitness challenge to raise funds for the migrant labourers whose families have been affected by the nationwide lockdown to combat the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Indian women's hockey team on Friday launched a fun fitness challenge to raise funds for the migrant labourers whose families have been affected by the nationwide lockdown to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. The 18-day challenge aims to raise money through crowdfunding to feed at least 1000 families while also encouraging people to adapt to an active lifestyle during the nationwide lockdown that has been extended till May 3. "...Every day we are reading in the newspapers and social media about so many people struggling for food, we decided to do something to help these people as a team," captain Rani Rampal said in a Hockey India press release. "...We thought an online fitness challenge would be the best way to do it and this way, we can also urge people to stay active during the nation-wide lockdown. Through this initiative, our goal is to raise enough funds to feed at least 1000 families," she said. The money from the crowd-funding effort will be donated to a Delhi-based NGO Uday Foundation and the proceeds will be used to provide basic necessities for patients at various locations, migrant workers and slum dwellers. Apart from providing food/dry ration, the fund will also be used to provide sanitary kits that will include soaps and hand sanitisers. The challenge will see members of the Indian women's hockey team come up with fitness tasks that range from burpees, lunges, squats to spider-man pushups, pogo hops and more. Each day, a player will give a new challenge and tag 10 people on her social media handles to take up the challenge and donate Rs. 100 for the cause. "Everyday, we will give a fun new challenge that can be done by anybody. Those who take up the challenge can donate Rs 100 or more to the fundraiser. We really hope people support us in this cause, vice-captain Savita said. "All of us in the Indian Women's Hockey Team come from poor economic backgrounds and we have seen days when we have struggled for food and other basics. Today we are in a position to help and we want to ensure poor people get basics like food and sanitary kits," she added. Agreeing with Savita's views, Rani said, "A few days back when I was talking to my father and he said 'if you did not play hockey and lift us out of poverty then maybe we also would have been in the same condition as so many poor people today who are struggling to get food'. "When he said this to me, it broke my heart. Everyone in the team has faced so many challenges due to poverty and we know the pain of not getting food. It's thanks to hockey our lives are comfortable today but not everyone is this fortunate." Rani's father worked as a cart-puller in Shahbad Markanda, Haryana.

Indian women's hockey team to raise funds for poor affected by lockdown

Jacqueline Towns, the mother of Minnesota Timberwolves all-star Karl-Anthony Towns, died of COVID-19 on Monday after a weeks-long battle with the disease which has led to a worldwide pandemic.

The Towns' family made the announcement on Wednesday in a statement: "The Towns family is heartbroken by the untimely passing of Jacqueline Towns due to complications as a result of COVID-19.&nbsp;

"(She) had been battling the virus for more than a month when she succumbed to it."&nbsp;

The National Basketball Players Association expressed its sorrow for the family.

"Words cannot express the extreme sadness each of us feels at the news of the passing of Karl Anthony-Towns' loving Mother, Jacqueline Towns.&nbsp;

"Our hearts break for Karl and his family and we send them our love and support at this very difficult time."&nbsp;

Jackie Towns was placed in a medically induced coma on March 25, sparking her 24-year-old son to make a public plea, asking people to take the coronavirus and social distancing seriously.

The NBA shutdown on March 11 after Utah Jazz center Rudy Gobert tested positive for the coronavirus which has so far infected over 600,000 Americans, killing 28,000 of them.

Jacqueline Towns, the mother of Minnesota Timberwolves all-star Karl-Anthony Towns, died of COVID-19 on Monday after a weeks-long battle with the disease which has led to a worldwide pandemic.

Jacqueline Towns, the mother of Minnesota Timberwolves all-star Karl-Anthony Towns, died of COVID-19 on Monday after a weeks-long battle with the disease which has led to a worldwide pandemic. The Towns' family made the announcement on Wednesday in a statement: "The Towns family is heartbroken by the untimely passing of Jacqueline Towns due to complications as a result of COVID-19. "(She) had been battling the virus for more than a month when she succumbed to it." The National Basketball Players Association expressed its sorrow for the family. "Words cannot express the extreme sadness each of us feels at the news of the passing of Karl Anthony-Towns' loving Mother, Jacqueline Towns. "Our hearts break for Karl and his family and we send them our love and support at this very difficult time." Jackie Towns was placed in a medically induced coma on March 25, sparking her 24-year-old son to make a public plea, asking people to take the coronavirus and social distancing seriously. The NBA shutdown on March 11 after Utah Jazz center Rudy Gobert tested positive for the coronavirus which has so far infected over 600,000 Americans, killing 28,000 of them.

NBA star Karl-Anthony Towns' mother dies of Covid-19

The Premier League is set to meet on Friday with an increasing number of football clubs wanting the season to end by June 30 due to the rising concerns about players’ contracts. The top agenda of the meeting would be to find a way to conclude the 2019/20 season before June 30, which has been suspended since mid-March due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Many clubs are still supporting a conclusion of the season despite the UK struggling with the dreaded coronavirus. Thus far, around 90,000 positive cases have been reported from the UK but that hasn’t affected many clubs’ take to finish the season rather than declare it null and void.&nbsp;

The major reason behind the clubs wanting to end the season before June 30 is due to the contracts of players which will be ending in the month of June and out-of-contract and loan players may not want to extend their contract and simply walk away from the club.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bayern-star-suele-wary-of-bundesliga-returning-too-soon-292961" hreflang="en">Bayern star Suele wary of Bundesliga returning too soon</a>

One Premier League club owner said: "Some clubs want the season to finish by the end of June. How can it be fair for European places and relegation to be decided by depleted squads?”

However, no solid outcome is expected from the meeting on Friday as the season will only resume when the government deems it safe. Even if the league is resumed, the games are most likely to be played behind closed doors.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/postponed-tokyo-olympics-to-kickstart-japan-economy-ioc-292948" hreflang="en">Postponed Tokyo Olympics 'to kickstart' Japan economy: IOC</a>

One Premier League owner said: "The meeting will be about financial survival and if and when we play games or abandon the season. Sadly, the season could still be abandoned depending on government rules."

Most of the Premier League clubs have nine matches left to be played including the leaders Liverpool, who had a massive 25-point advantage before the league was suspended last month in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak in the UK. 
&nbsp;

The Premier League is set to meet on Friday with an increasing number of football clubs wanting the season to end by June 30 due to the rising concerns about players’ contracts.

The Premier League is set to meet on Friday with an increasing number of football clubs wanting the season to end by June 30 due to the rising concerns about players’ contracts. The top agenda of the meeting would be to find a way to conclude the 2019/20 season before June 30, which has been suspended since mid-March due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Many clubs are still supporting a conclusion of the season despite the UK struggling with the dreaded coronavirus. Thus far, around 90,000 positive cases have been reported from the UK but that hasn’t affected many clubs’ take to finish the season rather than declare it null and void. The major reason behind the clubs wanting to end the season before June 30 is due to the contracts of players which will be ending in the month of June and out-of-contract and loan players may not want to extend their contract and simply walk away from the club. ALSO READ: Bayern star Suele wary of Bundesliga returning too soon One Premier League club owner said: "Some clubs want the season to finish by the end of June. How can it be fair for European places and relegation to be decided by depleted squads?” However, no solid outcome is expected from the meeting on Friday as the season will only resume when the government deems it safe. Even if the league is resumed, the games are most likely to be played behind closed doors. ALSO READ: Postponed Tokyo Olympics 'to kickstart' Japan economy: IOC One Premier League owner said: "The meeting will be about financial survival and if and when we play games or abandon the season. Sadly, the season could still be abandoned depending on government rules." Most of the Premier League clubs have nine matches left to be played including the leaders Liverpool, who had a massive 25-point advantage before the league was suspended last month in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak in the UK.

Money over health? Premier League clubs set to meet as many teams push for June 30 season end

Rafael Nadal thinks the global nature of tennis means there is little chance tournaments will go ahead any time soon as sport continues to be paralysed by the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

Novak Djokovic also anticipates a lengthy delay before tennis can be played even behind closed doors, with the world number one expecting players to have to wait a "few months".&nbsp;

The French Open, which Nadal has won a record 12 times, has been postponed until September, shortly after the US Open, while Wimbledon was cancelled earlier this month for the first time since World War II.&nbsp;

But the prospect of either grand slams at Roland Garros or Flushing Meadows being played with fans appears increasingly remote.&nbsp;

"Tennis is a global sport," Nadal told Spanish radio station Onda Cero on Wednesday night. "We go from country to country and a lot of people have to move around.&nbsp;

"It seems difficult to me for any big tournament to be played in the short or medium term."&nbsp;

Football's major leagues are preparing to play behind closed doors for several weeks to complete their seasons and avoid losing considerable sums of money from broadcasting contracts.&nbsp;

But tennis tournaments are more reliant on fans for their income, making it more complicated to stage competitions in empty stadiums.

"It is not an easy decision," Djokovic told the same programme. "I am ready but I think we have to wait a few months."&nbsp;

"If you could play behind closed doors, I would be delighted but I think it's very difficult," added Nadal.&nbsp;

Rafael Nadal thinks the global nature of tennis means there is little chance tournaments will go ahead any time soon as sport continues to be paralysed by the coronavirus pandemic.

Rafael Nadal thinks the global nature of tennis means there is little chance tournaments will go ahead any time soon as sport continues to be paralysed by the coronavirus pandemic. Novak Djokovic also anticipates a lengthy delay before tennis can be played even behind closed doors, with the world number one expecting players to have to wait a "few months". The French Open, which Nadal has won a record 12 times, has been postponed until September, shortly after the US Open, while Wimbledon was cancelled earlier this month for the first time since World War II. But the prospect of either grand slams at Roland Garros or Flushing Meadows being played with fans appears increasingly remote. "Tennis is a global sport," Nadal told Spanish radio station Onda Cero on Wednesday night. "We go from country to country and a lot of people have to move around. "It seems difficult to me for any big tournament to be played in the short or medium term." Football's major leagues are preparing to play behind closed doors for several weeks to complete their seasons and avoid losing considerable sums of money from broadcasting contracts. But tennis tournaments are more reliant on fans for their income, making it more complicated to stage competitions in empty stadiums. "It is not an easy decision," Djokovic told the same programme. "I am ready but I think we have to wait a few months." "If you could play behind closed doors, I would be delighted but I think it's very difficult," added Nadal.

Rafael Nadal expecting lengthy wait before tennis returns

Germany and Bayern Munich defender Niklas Suele admits having mixed feelings about the possible return of German league football next month amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Next Thursday, the German Football League (DFL) plans to meet via video conference with the 36 clubs in the first two leagues to discuss whether matches can resume in early May.

As public events in Germany are banned until August 31, football matches before that date could only be played in near-empty stadiums with fans locked out.

If the German authorities give the green light, the Bundesliga could be the first top European league to resume since German league matches were halted on March 13.

Most of the 18 top flight clubs in Germany returned to training last week, albeit with social distancing being observed even on the pitch.

The DFL is determined to finish the season by June 30 to ensure its clubs do not lose out on crucial TV rights revenue, but Suele is sceptical.

"There are many more important things than football at the moment," the 24-year-old told AFP subsidiary SID.

"Of course I want to get fit and play again, but the important thing is that my family is well, that everyone is healthy.

"As football professionals, we are blessed when we see how many companies have to close or how hard some families are hit. That's bad.

"Whether we play sooner or later is irrelevant."

However, Suele admits he would be "very happy if we could start again. Maybe it would also be a little distraction for many fans".

Suele has returned to training after a serious knee injury last October, and acknowledges that his comeback will probably be in front of empty terraces.

"Of course, during rehab I imagined how nice it would be to run out at the sold-out Allianz Arena (Bayern's home ground) again," he said.

"Unfortunately, that's going to be a thing of the past, but I'd still be happy to be able to play with my team again."

In Germany, games played behind locked doors are called "ghost games" and Suele insists they are a better option than no matches at all.

"From my point of view, there's no player anyway who'd rather not play at all than have ghost games," he added.

Just over 3,500 people have so far died due to the coronavirus in Germany.

Germany and Bayern Munich defender Niklas Suele admits having mixed feelings about the possible return of German league football next month amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Germany and Bayern Munich defender Niklas Suele admits having mixed feelings about the possible return of German league football next month amid the coronavirus pandemic. Next Thursday, the German Football League (DFL) plans to meet via video conference with the 36 clubs in the first two leagues to discuss whether matches can resume in early May. As public events in Germany are banned until August 31, football matches before that date could only be played in near-empty stadiums with fans locked out. If the German authorities give the green light, the Bundesliga could be the first top European league to resume since German league matches were halted on March 13. Most of the 18 top flight clubs in Germany returned to training last week, albeit with social distancing being observed even on the pitch. The DFL is determined to finish the season by June 30 to ensure its clubs do not lose out on crucial TV rights revenue, but Suele is sceptical. "There are many more important things than football at the moment," the 24-year-old told AFP subsidiary SID. "Of course I want to get fit and play again, but the important thing is that my family is well, that everyone is healthy. "As football professionals, we are blessed when we see how many companies have to close or how hard some families are hit. That's bad. "Whether we play sooner or later is irrelevant." However, Suele admits he would be "very happy if we could start again. Maybe it would also be a little distraction for many fans". Suele has returned to training after a serious knee injury last October, and acknowledges that his comeback will probably be in front of empty terraces. "Of course, during rehab I imagined how nice it would be to run out at the sold-out Allianz Arena (Bayern's home ground) again," he said. "Unfortunately, that's going to be a thing of the past, but I'd still be happy to be able to play with my team again." In Germany, games played behind locked doors are called "ghost games" and Suele insists they are a better option than no matches at all. "From my point of view, there's no player anyway who'd rather not play at all than have ghost games," he added. Just over 3,500 people have so far died due to the coronavirus in Germany.

Bayern star Suele wary of Bundesliga returning too soon

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) is ready to host the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 after the 13th&nbsp;edition of the cash-rich tournament was suspended indefinitely by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday amid the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

The president of Sri Lanka Cricket – Shammi Silva – while speaking to Lankadeepa Newspaper – said that India is expected to have a look at the proposal by Sri Lanka to host IPL 2020. The SLC president cited the massive financial hit the BCCI will have to take if the IPL 2020 is not played due to the pandemic while adding that the Indian board can look at an alternative option as it did in the year 2009.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/official-ipl-2020-suspended-till-further-notice-amid-covid-19-pandemic-292914" hreflang="en">Official: IPL 2020 suspended till further notice amid COVID-19 pandemic</a>

Silva further said that it would be beneficial for the BCCI to hold the tournament in an overseas country as they did in 2009 (South Africa) rather than cancel the entire event. He added that Sri Lanka Cricket is ready to provide all the facilities necessary under the supervision of health authorities for the smooth conduction of IPL 2020.

“If IPL is called off, Indian Cricket board and IPL stakeholders will have to bear a loss of more than $500 Million. So, it will be beneficial for them to conduct the league in another country as they did in 2009 in South Africa,” Silva was quoted as saying.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-would-go-wider-of-the-crease-and-shoaib-akhtar-reveals-master-plan-to-dismiss-virat-kohli-292875" hreflang="en">'I would go wider of the crease and...' - Shoaib Akhtar reveals master-plan to dismiss Virat Kohli</a>

“If we get the go-ahead from them to this proposal, we are ready to provide all the facilities necessary under the supervision of Sri Lankan health authorities,” he added.

The SLC president further said that hosting IPL could be a welcome boost for the economy of Sri Lanka and its cricket board.

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) is ready to host the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 after the 13th edition of the cash-rich tournament was suspended indefinitely by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) is ready to host the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 after the 13th edition of the cash-rich tournament was suspended indefinitely by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The president of Sri Lanka Cricket – Shammi Silva – while speaking to Lankadeepa Newspaper – said that India is expected to have a look at the proposal by Sri Lanka to host IPL 2020. The SLC president cited the massive financial hit the BCCI will have to take if the IPL 2020 is not played due to the pandemic while adding that the Indian board can look at an alternative option as it did in the year 2009. ALSO READ: Official: IPL 2020 suspended till further notice amid COVID-19 pandemic Silva further said that it would be beneficial for the BCCI to hold the tournament in an overseas country as they did in 2009 (South Africa) rather than cancel the entire event. He added that Sri Lanka Cricket is ready to provide all the facilities necessary under the supervision of health authorities for the smooth conduction of IPL 2020. “If IPL is called off, Indian Cricket board and IPL stakeholders will have to bear a loss of more than $500 Million. So, it will be beneficial for them to conduct the league in another country as they did in 2009 in South Africa,” Silva was quoted as saying. ALSO READ: 'I would go wider of the crease and...' - Shoaib Akhtar reveals master-plan to dismiss Virat Kohli “If we get the go-ahead from them to this proposal, we are ready to provide all the facilities necessary under the supervision of Sri Lankan health authorities,” he added. The SLC president further said that hosting IPL could be a welcome boost for the economy of Sri Lanka and its cricket board.

Sri Lanka ready to host IPL 2020, will provide all facilities for tournament: SLC to BCCI

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