<p>With the COVID-19 pandemic leaving the sporting calendar in tatters, athletes have been forced to train indoors in order to keep themselves fit and ready whenever the season resumes. Almost every country has been forced into lockdown in a bid to curb the spread of the dreaded virus and sportspersons have been taking to social media platforms to keep them engaged and entertained during these dire times.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 2018 Olympic gold medallist in Big Air snowboarding has been keeping the fans engaged with series of enthralling videos where he is seen doing different sort of exercises and trick videos. Pushups on a stack of Red Bull cans, bouncing ping pong ball into a roll of toilet paper with a touch of no-look trick, Sebastien Toutant has done it all. In the latest video, Toutant has defied all the odds.</p>

<p>The Canadian snowboarder created an amazing obstacle course around his living room where the 2018 Winter Olympic champion skates, balances, juggles, throws blind and backflips his way to the end in Montreal.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/the-legacy-lives-on-kobe-bryants-new-book-becomes-best-seller-for-fifth-time-as-latest-release-tops-charts-291743" hreflang="en">The legacy lives on! Kobe Bryant's new book becomes best-seller for fifth time as latest release tops charts</a></strong></p>

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<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-formula-one-is-no-different-everyone-is-in-same-boat-karun-chandhok-opens-up-on-halted-f1-season-life-in-lockdown-and-more-291609" hreflang="en">Exclusive: 'Formula One is no different, everyone is in same boat' - Karun Chandhok opens up on halted F1 season, life in lockdown and more</a></strong></p>

<p>Since Toutant started self-isolating in Montreal, he has been creating videos on social media platform Instagram with the hashtag #sebtootschallenge. All of his videos have gone viral and the Canadian has received massive plaudits for his efforts.</p>

<p>On Friday, the death toll from COVID-19 exceeded 90,000 worldwide with positive cases surpassing 1.5 million mark in 192 countries and territories.&nbsp;</p>


With the COVID-19 pandemic leaving the sporting calendar in tatters, athletes have been forced to train indoors in order to keep themselves fit and ready whenever the season resumes.

With the COVID-19 pandemic leaving the sporting calendar in tatters, athletes have been forced to train indoors in order to keep themselves fit and ready whenever the season resumes. Almost every country has been forced into lockdown in a bid to curb the spread of the dreaded virus and sportspersons have been taking to social media platforms to keep them engaged and entertained during these dire times. The 2018 Olympic gold medallist in Big Air snowboarding has been keeping the fans engaged with series of enthralling videos where he is seen doing different sort of exercises and trick videos. Pushups on a stack of Red Bull cans, bouncing ping pong ball into a roll of toilet paper with a touch of no-look trick, Sebastien Toutant has done it all. In the latest video, Toutant has defied all the odds. The Canadian snowboarder created an amazing obstacle course around his living room where the 2018 Winter Olympic champion skates, balances, juggles, throws blind and backflips his way to the end in Montreal. ALSO READ: The legacy lives on! Kobe Bryant's new book becomes best-seller for fifth time as latest release tops charts × ALSO READ: Exclusive: 'Formula One is no different, everyone is in same boat' - Karun Chandhok opens up on halted F1 season, life in lockdown and more Since Toutant started self-isolating in Montreal, he has been creating videos on social media platform Instagram with the hashtag #sebtootschallenge. All of his videos have gone viral and the Canadian has received massive plaudits for his efforts. On Friday, the death toll from COVID-19 exceeded 90,000 worldwide with positive cases surpassing 1.5 million mark in 192 countries and territories.

WATCH: Best quarantine video? Sebastien Toutant defies all odds to clear obstacle course at home

<p>NBA players will receive their full paychecks on April 15, US media reported Thursday, but salaries could be reduced as the league remains shut down amid the coronavirus pandemic.</p>

<p>ESPN and the Philadelphia Inquirer were among the outlets citing league sources in reporting that players would be paid as usual on April 15.</p>

<p>The league and the National Basketball Players Association have been negotiating a salary-reduction percentage for upcoming pay periods, and on Tuesday the players association reiterated to agents that owners could withhold 25 percent of players' remaining salaries if the season is cancelled.</p>

<p>NBA commissioner Adam Silver said Monday that he did not expect the league to be in a position to make a decision on when and how a return to play might happen until May.</p>

<p>The regular season was due to end on April 15, with the playoffs scheduled to start on April 18.</p>


NBA players will receive their full paychecks on April 15, US media reported Thursday, but salaries could be reduced as the league remains shut down amid the coronavirus pandemic.

NBA players will receive their full paychecks on April 15, US media reported Thursday, but salaries could be reduced as the league remains shut down amid the coronavirus pandemic. ESPN and the Philadelphia Inquirer were among the outlets citing league sources in reporting that players would be paid as usual on April 15. The league and the National Basketball Players Association have been negotiating a salary-reduction percentage for upcoming pay periods, and on Tuesday the players association reiterated to agents that owners could withhold 25 percent of players' remaining salaries if the season is cancelled. NBA commissioner Adam Silver said Monday that he did not expect the league to be in a position to make a decision on when and how a return to play might happen until May. The regular season was due to end on April 15, with the playoffs scheduled to start on April 18.

NBA players to receive full April 15 paychecks - reports

<p>Legendary basketball player, Kobe Bryant has become a number on New York Times bestseller for the fifth time with the latest release from Bryant's Granity Studios, ‘The Wizenard Series: Season One’. The middle-grade hardcover list is set to be published on April 19. Earlier this month, ‘The Wizenard Series: Season One’ had already become number one on Amazon’s best-seller list in the category of children’s basketball books.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In March, fans witnessed the release of ‘The Wizenard Series’ following Kobe’s demise in January. ‘Season One’ is the latest instalment of the best-selling series which narrates the story of a young basketball player who dreams to become a superstar. With the success of ‘Season One’, Kobe became a number one on the New York Times bestseller for the fifth time.</p>

<p>Kobe’s wife Vanessa took to social media platform Instagram to share the moment with fans as she wrote: 5 championships. “5 NYT bestsellers. The Mamba strikes again.. My husband @kobebryant would have been so proud to see his work continuing on with The #Wizenard Series: Season One. Thank you for supporting his legacy!!!! #GranityStudios”</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-formula-one-is-no-different-everyone-is-in-same-boat-karun-chandhok-opens-up-on-halted-f1-season-life-in-lockdown-and-more-291609" hreflang="en">Exclusive: 'Formula One is no different, everyone is in same boat' - Karun Chandhok opens up on halted F1 season, life in lockdown and more</a></strong></p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B-vPP8Uj0Kw/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">5 championships . 5 NYT bestsellers . The Mamba strikes again. . My husband @kobebryant would have been so proud to see his work continuing on with The #Wizenard Series: Season One. Thank you for supporting his legacy!!!! #GranityStudios</a></p>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/vanessabryant/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Vanessa Bryant </a> (@vanessabryant) on <time datetime="2020-04-08T23:20:14+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Apr 8, 2020 at 4:20pm PDT</time></p>
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<p>Notably, Kobe was the creator of this series and envisioned the storylines which are "series&nbsp;of strain and sacrifice, supernatural breakthroughs, and supreme dedication to the game." Kobe’s book ‘The Mamba Mentality: How I Play”, which was released in 2018, was also a best-seller and has been on Amazon’s top list for much of 2020 as well.</p>

<p>Kobe won five NBA titles with Los Angeles Lakers before retiring in the year 2016 as he wanted to focus on Granity and his passion to narrate stories. The legendary figure in the world of sports has also won an Academy Award in 2018. He was also announced as the latest member in the Basketball Hall of Fame’s Class of 2020, earlier this week.</p>

<p>Kobe died aged 41 in a helicopter crash in Calabasas at the end of January, alongside his 13-year-old daughter Gianna. He is survived by wife Vanessa and their three other daughters; Natalia, 17, Bianka, three, and Capri, nine months.</p>


Legendary basketball player, Kobe Bryant has become a number on New York Times bestseller for the fifth time with the latest release from Bryant's Granity Studios, ‘The Wizenard Series: Season One’.

Legendary basketball player, Kobe Bryant has become a number on New York Times bestseller for the fifth time with the latest release from Bryant's Granity Studios, ‘The Wizenard Series: Season One’. The middle-grade hardcover list is set to be published on April 19. Earlier this month, ‘The Wizenard Series: Season One’ had already become number one on Amazon’s best-seller list in the category of children’s basketball books. In March, fans witnessed the release of ‘The Wizenard Series’ following Kobe’s demise in January. ‘Season One’ is the latest instalment of the best-selling series which narrates the story of a young basketball player who dreams to become a superstar. With the success of ‘Season One’, Kobe became a number one on the New York Times bestseller for the fifth time. Kobe’s wife Vanessa took to social media platform Instagram to share the moment with fans as she wrote: 5 championships. “5 NYT bestsellers. The Mamba strikes again.. My husband @kobebryant would have been so proud to see his work continuing on with The #Wizenard Series: Season One. Thank you for supporting his legacy!!!! #GranityStudios” ALSO READ: Exclusive: 'Formula One is no different, everyone is in same boat' - Karun Chandhok opens up on halted F1 season, life in lockdown and more View this post on Instagram 5 championships . 5 NYT bestsellers . The Mamba strikes again. . My husband @kobebryant would have been so proud to see his work continuing on with The #Wizenard Series: Season One. Thank you for supporting his legacy!!!! #GranityStudios A post shared by Vanessa Bryant (@vanessabryant) on Apr 8, 2020 at 4:20pm PDT × Notably, Kobe was the creator of this series and envisioned the storylines which are "series of strain and sacrifice, supernatural breakthroughs, and supreme dedication to the game." Kobe’s book ‘The Mamba Mentality: How I Play”, which was released in 2018, was also a best-seller and has been on Amazon’s top list for much of 2020 as well. Kobe won five NBA titles with Los Angeles Lakers before retiring in the year 2016 as he wanted to focus on Granity and his passion to narrate stories. The legendary figure in the world of sports has also won an Academy Award in 2018. He was also announced as the latest member in the Basketball Hall of Fame’s Class of 2020, earlier this week. Kobe died aged 41 in a helicopter crash in Calabasas at the end of January, alongside his 13-year-old daughter Gianna. He is survived by wife Vanessa and their three other daughters; Natalia, 17, Bianka, three, and Capri, nine months.

The legacy lives on! Kobe Bryant's new book becomes best-seller for fifth time as latest release tops charts

<p>Real Madrid players have agreed to cut their salaries by as much as a fifth, the La Liga club announced on Wednesday, as Spanish football remains on hold due to the coronavirus pandemic.</p>

<p>In a statement, Real said players and coaches from the side's football and basketball teams, as well as key directors, had voluntarily agreed to the reduction, of either 10 or 20 percent, "depending on the circumstances that may affect the closing of the current 2019/20 sports season".</p>

<p>Real didn't say what circumstances would affect the rate of salary cut, but Spanish media reported players will receive 10 percent less if the season is completed and 20 percent less if the current campaign is terminated.</p>

<p>The cuts will shave between 28 million and 56 million euros ($30.4 million and $60.8 million) off Real's salary bill.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It also means the club has avoided using the partial unemployment (ERTE) scheme that cut Barcelona and Atletico Madrid players' salaries by 70 percent.</p>

<p>La Liga has recommended clubs take advantage of the scheme, and both Sevilla and Espanyol have also put in a request to be included on the ERTE scheme.</p>

<p>Over 14,000 people have died from COVID-19 in Spain, the second worst hit country from the virus after Italy, with 146,690 registered cases.</p>


Real Madrid players have agreed to cut their salaries by as much as a fifth, the La Liga club announced on Wednesday, as Spanish football remains on hold due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Real Madrid players have agreed to cut their salaries by as much as a fifth, the La Liga club announced on Wednesday, as Spanish football remains on hold due to the coronavirus pandemic. In a statement, Real said players and coaches from the side's football and basketball teams, as well as key directors, had voluntarily agreed to the reduction, of either 10 or 20 percent, "depending on the circumstances that may affect the closing of the current 2019/20 sports season". Real didn't say what circumstances would affect the rate of salary cut, but Spanish media reported players will receive 10 percent less if the season is completed and 20 percent less if the current campaign is terminated. The cuts will shave between 28 million and 56 million euros ($30.4 million and $60.8 million) off Real's salary bill. It also means the club has avoided using the partial unemployment (ERTE) scheme that cut Barcelona and Atletico Madrid players' salaries by 70 percent. La Liga has recommended clubs take advantage of the scheme, and both Sevilla and Espanyol have also put in a request to be included on the ERTE scheme. Over 14,000 people have died from COVID-19 in Spain, the second worst hit country from the virus after Italy, with 146,690 registered cases.

Real Madrid players accept up to 20 percent pay cut

<p>Tottenham boss Jose Mourinho has accepted he was in the wrong for holding a one-on-one training session with midfielder Tanguy Ndombele in a public park in London.</p>

<p>Mourinho was pictured on social media flaunting government rules by meeting up with the midfielder Tuesday, even though they kept to social distancing guidelines.</p>

<p>Fellow Spurs players Davinson Sanchez and Ryan Sessegnon were spotted running side by side in a separate session, while Serge Aurier filmed himself on Instagram running alongside a friend.</p>

<p>"I accept that my actions were not in line with government protocol and we must only have contact with members of our own household," said the Portuguese manager.</p>

<p>"It is vital we all play our part and follow government advice in order to support our heroes in the NHS and save lives."</p>

<p>London Mayor Sadiq Khan told the BBC the players and Mourinho should be leading by example.</p>

<p>"My concern is people, particularly children, who might support Spurs or follow football may see these images, pick up a paper, watch the internet and think, well if it's OK for them, why isn't it OK for me?" he said.</p>

<p>The Premier League has been suspended since mid-March due to the spread of COVID-19.</p>

<p>The British government has introduced a strict series of measures to prevent the spread of the virus and Tottenham have reminded players of their responsibilities.</p>

<p>The club said last week they would be using the government's furlough financial assistance programme for non-playing staff, a move that was seen as controversial and attracted a lot of criticism.</p>


Tottenham boss Jose Mourinho has accepted he was in the wrong for holding a one-on-one training session with midfielder Tanguy Ndombele in a public park in London.

Tottenham boss Jose Mourinho has accepted he was in the wrong for holding a one-on-one training session with midfielder Tanguy Ndombele in a public park in London. Mourinho was pictured on social media flaunting government rules by meeting up with the midfielder Tuesday, even though they kept to social distancing guidelines. Fellow Spurs players Davinson Sanchez and Ryan Sessegnon were spotted running side by side in a separate session, while Serge Aurier filmed himself on Instagram running alongside a friend. "I accept that my actions were not in line with government protocol and we must only have contact with members of our own household," said the Portuguese manager. "It is vital we all play our part and follow government advice in order to support our heroes in the NHS and save lives." London Mayor Sadiq Khan told the BBC the players and Mourinho should be leading by example. "My concern is people, particularly children, who might support Spurs or follow football may see these images, pick up a paper, watch the internet and think, well if it's OK for them, why isn't it OK for me?" he said. The Premier League has been suspended since mid-March due to the spread of COVID-19. The British government has introduced a strict series of measures to prevent the spread of the virus and Tottenham have reminded players of their responsibilities. The club said last week they would be using the government's furlough financial assistance programme for non-playing staff, a move that was seen as controversial and attracted a lot of criticism.

Jose Mourinho admits he was in the wrong over training session

<p>County cricketers will take "maximum reductions" in their salaries during April and May and have agreed to waive £1 million ($1.25 million) in prize money during the coronavirus crisis, the Professional Cricketers' Association (PCA) announced on Wednesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The county championship, comprising four-day matches, was due to start on Sunday but English cricket is shut down until at least May 28, with the expectation of further postponements.</p>

<p>The PCA on Wednesday welcomed the collective player agreement, which covers an initial period of April and May.</p>

<p>"Discussions between the PCA, ECB (England and Wales Cricket Board) and 18 first-class counties reached a conclusion today with all parties supporting an initial two-month agreement that will see maximum reductions to player salaries and relinquishing of domestic prize money," the PCA said in a statement.</p>

<p>The PCA has relinquished £1 million of the domestic player prize money for 2020 and players will also agree to be furloughed if asked to by their county.</p>

<p>Champions Essex confirmed that the club's playing staff, along with most non-playing staff, had been placed on furlough.</p>

<p>A number of other clubs including Yorkshire and Worcestershire had previously confirmed they would be using the government's job retention scheme.</p>

<p>PCA chairman Daryl Mitchell said: "The coronavirus pandemic will continue to put financial pressure on the game and this initial two-month agreement will support the game for the period of April and May.</p>

<p>"We were due to start the county championship season on Sunday and sadly for us all that will not be the case. As a group of players, we will do everything we can to ensure that when cricket does return the sport is in a position to thrive."</p>

<p>The ECB last week announced a £61 million aid package in response to the "once-in-a-generation" challenge.</p>


County cricketers will take "maximum reductions" in their salaries during April and May and have agreed to waive £1 million ($1.25 million) in prize money during the coronavirus crisis, the Professional Cricketers' Association (PCA) announced on Wednesday.

County cricketers will take "maximum reductions" in their salaries during April and May and have agreed to waive £1 million ($1.25 million) in prize money during the coronavirus crisis, the Professional Cricketers' Association (PCA) announced on Wednesday. The county championship, comprising four-day matches, was due to start on Sunday but English cricket is shut down until at least May 28, with the expectation of further postponements. The PCA on Wednesday welcomed the collective player agreement, which covers an initial period of April and May. "Discussions between the PCA, ECB (England and Wales Cricket Board) and 18 first-class counties reached a conclusion today with all parties supporting an initial two-month agreement that will see maximum reductions to player salaries and relinquishing of domestic prize money," the PCA said in a statement. The PCA has relinquished £1 million of the domestic player prize money for 2020 and players will also agree to be furloughed if asked to by their county. Champions Essex confirmed that the club's playing staff, along with most non-playing staff, had been placed on furlough. A number of other clubs including Yorkshire and Worcestershire had previously confirmed they would be using the government's job retention scheme. PCA chairman Daryl Mitchell said: "The coronavirus pandemic will continue to put financial pressure on the game and this initial two-month agreement will support the game for the period of April and May. "We were due to start the county championship season on Sunday and sadly for us all that will not be the case. As a group of players, we will do everything we can to ensure that when cricket does return the sport is in a position to thrive." The ECB last week announced a £61 million aid package in response to the "once-in-a-generation" challenge.

Cricketers agree virus package to support game

<p>The legendary Viv Richards, one of the greatest batsman to have ever played the game, said such was his passion that he didn't mind dying on the cricket field while representing the West Indies.</p>

<p>Known for his aggressive batting, Richards never preferred wearing helmets even as he dominated some of the fiercest fast bowlers of world cricket.</p>

<p>The 68-year-old said he was always aware of the risks but it didn't bother him.</p>

<p>"The passion for the game I felt was such that I wouldn't mind dying playing something that I love. If this is what I chose and I go down here, what better way is there to go," Richards told former Australian all-rounder Shane Watson in a podcast.</p>

<p>Richards said he always looked up to other athletes, who risked their lives, for inspiration.</p>

<p>"I have looked at other sportsmen and women who I have a lot of respect for doing it to an extreme level," said Richards, who had amassed 8540 runs and 6721 runs in 121 Tests and 187 ODIs respectively.</p>

<p>"I see a guy driving a Formula 1 racing car, what could be more dangerous than that?" said Richards, to which Watson quipped: "Facing 150kph without a helmet?".</p>


The legendary Viv Richards, one of the greatest batsman to have ever played the game, said such was his passion that he didn't mind dying on the cricket field while representing the West Indies.

The legendary Viv Richards, one of the greatest batsman to have ever played the game, said such was his passion that he didn't mind dying on the cricket field while representing the West Indies. Known for his aggressive batting, Richards never preferred wearing helmets even as he dominated some of the fiercest fast bowlers of world cricket. The 68-year-old said he was always aware of the risks but it didn't bother him. "The passion for the game I felt was such that I wouldn't mind dying playing something that I love. If this is what I chose and I go down here, what better way is there to go," Richards told former Australian all-rounder Shane Watson in a podcast. Richards said he always looked up to other athletes, who risked their lives, for inspiration. "I have looked at other sportsmen and women who I have a lot of respect for doing it to an extreme level," said Richards, who had amassed 8540 runs and 6721 runs in 121 Tests and 187 ODIs respectively. "I see a guy driving a Formula 1 racing car, what could be more dangerous than that?" said Richards, to which Watson quipped: "Facing 150kph without a helmet?".

Didn't mind dying on the field such was my passion for game: Viv Richards on not wearing helmet

<p>With the sporting calendar left shattered due to COVID-19 pandemic, all eyes are on tournaments such as the Asia Cup and ICC T20 World Cup, which are yet to be postponed or cancelled. While the International Cricket Council (ICC) are still waiting to take a call on the biggest cricketing event of the year – the ICC T20 World Cup – there has been some progress in regards to the bidding process to host the ICC events for the proposed eight-year cycle of 2023-31.</p>

<p>Earlier, ICC had sent the ‘expression of interest’ communication to all members’ boards and in response to that, the world cricket body has received as many as 93 offers for 28 events, from 18 boards, to be staged in the proposed cycle of 2023-31.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sit-back-and-relax-at-home-kapil-dev-dismisses-shoaib-akhtars-proposal-of-india-pakistan-charity-series-to-fight-against-covid-19-291536" hreflang="en">'Sit back and relax at home' - Kapil Dev dismisses Shoaib Akhtar’s proposal of India-Pakistan charity series to fight against COVID-19</a></strong></p>

<p>“Three member boards did not get into specifics of any event. A total of 18 boards responded,” a source was quoted as saying by a leading daily.</p>

<p>There was a lot of debate surrounding ICC’s proposal to schedule on world event every year in the next eight-year cycle. There is a big dispute over the proposal to hold a 10-nation T20 Champions Cup in 2024 and 2028.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/another-one-bites-the-dust-as-australia-vs-bangladesh-test-series-postponed-due-to-covid-19-pandemic-291568" hreflang="en">Another one bites the dust as Australia vs Bangladesh Test series postponed due to COVID-19 pandemic</a></strong></p>

<p>The hectic scheduling by ICC could mean that bigger boards might suffer in their bilateral cricket which fetches them hefty pay-cheques.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Apart from men’s events, ICC is also looking for bidders for the eight women’s events and the World Test Championships finals in every two years as well as the ICC Under-19 World Cups.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


With the sporting calendar left shattered due to COVID-19 pandemic, all eyes are on tournaments such as the Asia Cup and ICC T20 World Cup, which are yet to be postponed or cancelled.

With the sporting calendar left shattered due to COVID-19 pandemic, all eyes are on tournaments such as the Asia Cup and ICC T20 World Cup, which are yet to be postponed or cancelled. While the International Cricket Council (ICC) are still waiting to take a call on the biggest cricketing event of the year – the ICC T20 World Cup – there has been some progress in regards to the bidding process to host the ICC events for the proposed eight-year cycle of 2023-31. Earlier, ICC had sent the ‘expression of interest’ communication to all members’ boards and in response to that, the world cricket body has received as many as 93 offers for 28 events, from 18 boards, to be staged in the proposed cycle of 2023-31. ALSO READ: 'Sit back and relax at home' - Kapil Dev dismisses Shoaib Akhtar’s proposal of India-Pakistan charity series to fight against COVID-19 “Three member boards did not get into specifics of any event. A total of 18 boards responded,” a source was quoted as saying by a leading daily. There was a lot of debate surrounding ICC’s proposal to schedule on world event every year in the next eight-year cycle. There is a big dispute over the proposal to hold a 10-nation T20 Champions Cup in 2024 and 2028. ALSO READ: Another one bites the dust as Australia vs Bangladesh Test series postponed due to COVID-19 pandemic The hectic scheduling by ICC could mean that bigger boards might suffer in their bilateral cricket which fetches them hefty pay-cheques. Apart from men’s events, ICC is also looking for bidders for the eight women’s events and the World Test Championships finals in every two years as well as the ICC Under-19 World Cups.

ICC receives 93 offers for 28 events for the proposed 2023-31 cycle

<p>The two-match Test series between Australia and Bangladesh, which was scheduled to be held in the month of June, has been postponed due to health concerns and travel restrictions in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The two-match Test series was to be held under the banner of ICC World Test Championship and the postponement will add to the complications of the WTC final, scheduled to be held in 2021. There have been a few bilateral Test series that have been cancelled due to the pandemic and re-organising them in a short time-space will not be an easy task even though the series can be rescheduled by bilateral agreements+.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Postponing the tour is regrettable, but I would like to thank the Bangladesh Cricket Board for the open, honest and responsible discussions that led us to this mutually-agreed position," Cricket Australia CEO Kevin Roberts said.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-sure-who-went-easy-on-virat-kohli-for-ipl-contract-tim-paine-rubbishes-michael-clarkes-claims-of-aussies-being-scared-to-sledge-india-291544" hreflang="en">Not sure who went easy on Virat Kohli for IPL contract: Tim Paine rubbishes Michael Clarke's claims of Aussies being 'scared' to sledge India</a></strong></p>

<p>"The health of our people and communities is the number one priority for both Boards and that is reflected in the action we have taken in postponing the two Test matches.</p>

<p>"As we know, the global cricket calendar is very busy but we will do everything we can to honour our commitment to Bangladesh and will continue to work with the BCB on an agreed date."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sit-back-and-relax-at-home-kapil-dev-dismisses-shoaib-akhtars-proposal-of-india-pakistan-charity-series-to-fight-against-covid-19-291536" hreflang="en">'Sit back and relax at home' - Kapil Dev dismisses Shoaib Akhtar’s proposal of India-Pakistan charity series to fight against COVID-19</a></strong></p>

<p>Australian Test captain Tim Paine had earlier said that the Test series against Bangladesh was unlikely to be played as planned with the boards now agreeing to postpone the two-match rubber.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moreover, there are major doubts about the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020) and other major cricketing events such as the Asia Cup 2020 and T20 World Cup. However, no official call has been taken on these big-shot tournaments, as of now.</p>


The two-match Test series between Australia and Bangladesh, which was scheduled to be held in the month of June, has been postponed due to health concerns and travel restrictions in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The two-match Test series between Australia and Bangladesh, which was scheduled to be held in the month of June, has been postponed due to health concerns and travel restrictions in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The two-match Test series was to be held under the banner of ICC World Test Championship and the postponement will add to the complications of the WTC final, scheduled to be held in 2021. There have been a few bilateral Test series that have been cancelled due to the pandemic and re-organising them in a short time-space will not be an easy task even though the series can be rescheduled by bilateral agreements+. "Postponing the tour is regrettable, but I would like to thank the Bangladesh Cricket Board for the open, honest and responsible discussions that led us to this mutually-agreed position," Cricket Australia CEO Kevin Roberts said. ALSO READ: Not sure who went easy on Virat Kohli for IPL contract: Tim Paine rubbishes Michael Clarke's claims of Aussies being 'scared' to sledge India "The health of our people and communities is the number one priority for both Boards and that is reflected in the action we have taken in postponing the two Test matches. "As we know, the global cricket calendar is very busy but we will do everything we can to honour our commitment to Bangladesh and will continue to work with the BCB on an agreed date." ALSO READ: 'Sit back and relax at home' - Kapil Dev dismisses Shoaib Akhtar’s proposal of India-Pakistan charity series to fight against COVID-19 Australian Test captain Tim Paine had earlier said that the Test series against Bangladesh was unlikely to be played as planned with the boards now agreeing to postpone the two-match rubber. Moreover, there are major doubts about the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020) and other major cricketing events such as the Asia Cup 2020 and T20 World Cup. However, no official call has been taken on these big-shot tournaments, as of now.

Another one bites the dust as Australia vs Bangladesh Test series postponed due to COVID-19 pandemic

<p>The organisers of Wimbledon are set to receive a mammoth insurance payout after the COVID-19 pandemic forced the cancellation of the iconic tennis event. As per multiple reports, the All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) purchased a pandemic insurance policy for 17 straight years at a cost of around $2 million per annum. Reportedly, the organisers of Wimbledon sought a pandemic clause after the SARS outbreak in the year 2003.</p>

<p>With the pandemic insurance policy in place, the organisers of Wimbledon will receive an estimated $141 million after the cancellation of the tournament, as per reports. Notably, Wimbledon wouldn’t have been eligible for the clause had the organisers decided to postpone it rather than cancelling the tournament.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sit-back-and-relax-at-home-kapil-dev-dismisses-shoaib-akhtars-proposal-of-india-pakistan-charity-series-to-fight-against-covid-19-291536" hreflang="en">'Sit back and relax at home' - Kapil Dev dismisses Shoaib Akhtar’s proposal of India-Pakistan charity series to fight against COVID-19</a></strong></p>

<p>The pandemic insurance policy will give Wimbledon the upper hand to control and short-term financial difficulties. As per a report, the 2020 Wimbledon was supposed to generate more than $300 million in revenue.</p>

<p>AFLAC CEO Richard Lewis addressed the pandemic insurance clause. “We’re fortunate to have the insurance and it helps,” Lewis told a leading British daily. “The insurers, the brokers and everybody involved have been excellent to work with so far, but there’s still a lot of work to do.”</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-stars-launch-playerstogether-campaign-to-support-nhs-charities-291506" hreflang="en">Premier League stars launch '#PlayersTogether' campaign to support NHS charities</a></strong></p>

<p>Earlier, the organisers had announced that The Championships 2020 stood cancelled due to public health concerns linked to COVID-19 pandemic while adding that the 134th Championships will is now scheduled to stage from June 28, 2021, to July 11, 2021.</p>

<p>“It is with great regret that the AELTC has today decided that The Championships 2020 will be cancelled due to public health concerns linked to the coronavirus epidemic. The 134th Championships will instead be staged from 28 June to 11 July 2021,” the official account of Wimbledon had tweeted.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


The organisers of Wimbledon are set to receive a mammoth insurance payout after the COVID-19 pandemic forced the cancellation of the iconic tennis event. As per multiple reports, the All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) purchased a pandemic insurance policy for 17 straight years at a cost of around $2 million per annum.

The organisers of Wimbledon are set to receive a mammoth insurance payout after the COVID-19 pandemic forced the cancellation of the iconic tennis event. As per multiple reports, the All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) purchased a pandemic insurance policy for 17 straight years at a cost of around $2 million per annum. Reportedly, the organisers of Wimbledon sought a pandemic clause after the SARS outbreak in the year 2003. With the pandemic insurance policy in place, the organisers of Wimbledon will receive an estimated $141 million after the cancellation of the tournament, as per reports. Notably, Wimbledon wouldn’t have been eligible for the clause had the organisers decided to postpone it rather than cancelling the tournament. ALSO READ: 'Sit back and relax at home' - Kapil Dev dismisses Shoaib Akhtar’s proposal of India-Pakistan charity series to fight against COVID-19 The pandemic insurance policy will give Wimbledon the upper hand to control and short-term financial difficulties. As per a report, the 2020 Wimbledon was supposed to generate more than $300 million in revenue. AFLAC CEO Richard Lewis addressed the pandemic insurance clause. “We’re fortunate to have the insurance and it helps,” Lewis told a leading British daily. “The insurers, the brokers and everybody involved have been excellent to work with so far, but there’s still a lot of work to do.” ALSO READ: Premier League stars launch '#PlayersTogether' campaign to support NHS charities Earlier, the organisers had announced that The Championships 2020 stood cancelled due to public health concerns linked to COVID-19 pandemic while adding that the 134th Championships will is now scheduled to stage from June 28, 2021, to July 11, 2021. “It is with great regret that the AELTC has today decided that The Championships 2020 will be cancelled due to public health concerns linked to the coronavirus epidemic. The 134th Championships will instead be staged from 28 June to 11 July 2021,” the official account of Wimbledon had tweeted.

Wimbledon set to receive $141 million after paying for pandemic insurance for 17 years: Reports

<p>Australian Test skipper Tim Paine has rubbished Michael Clarke’s claims that Aussie players were too scared to sledge Virat Kohli or other Indian players as they feared losing out on hefty pay-cheques in Indian Premier League (IPL). Paine has said that he didn’t notice too many people being that nice to Kohli or not trying to get him dismissed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Paine further said that in the previous Test series between India and Australia, there was a quite a lot of heat and every Australian player tried to give their best with both bat and ball while adding that he is pretty sure that nobody would be thinking of an IPL contract when they are running in to bowl to Kohli.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sit-back-and-relax-at-home-kapil-dev-dismisses-shoaib-akhtars-proposal-of-india-pakistan-charity-series-to-fight-against-covid-19-291536" hreflang="en">'Sit back and relax at home' - Kapil Dev dismisses Shoaib Akhtar’s proposal of India-Pakistan charity series to fight against COVID-19</a></strong></p>

<p>"I certainly didn't notice too many people being that nice to Virat or not trying to get him out or anything like that," Paine told a leading cricket portal while adding: "I thought everyone who had the ball in their hand or when we were batting were trying their absolute best to win the game for Australia. I'm not sure who was going easy on him; we certainly had a thing where we didn't want to provoke any fight with him because we think that's when he plays at his best.”</p>

<p>"Who knows what will happen this series and, as we saw in the documentary, there was still quite a lot of heat in some of those games. I certainly wasn't holding back, but again the IPL's not a huge draw for me at the moment, so I had nothing to lose. But anytime our guys go out and play a Test match for Australia, they'll be giving their absolute all and I'm pretty sure they're not thinking about an IPL contract when they're running in, bowling to Virat," Paine further said.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricketers-agree-virus-package-to-support-game-291491" hreflang="en">Cricketers agree virus package to support game</a></strong></p>

<p>Earlier, Clarke had said that India are extremely powerful in regards to the financial part of the game and that has led to Australian cricket and other teams to suck up to Indian cricket team.</p>

<p>"Everybody knows how powerful India are in regards to the financial part of the game, whether that be internationally or domestically in regards to the IPL," Clarke said on the Big Sports Breakfast radio programme, while adding "so, I feel, Australian cricket, and probably every other team, over a little period went the opposite - actually sucked up to India. They were too scared to sledge Kohli or sledge the Indian players because they had to go and play with them in April.”<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Australian Test skipper Tim Paine has rubbished Michael Clarke’s claims that Aussie players were too scared to sledge Virat Kohli or other Indian players as they feared losing out on hefty pay-cheques in Indian Premier League (IPL).

Australian Test skipper Tim Paine has rubbished Michael Clarke’s claims that Aussie players were too scared to sledge Virat Kohli or other Indian players as they feared losing out on hefty pay-cheques in Indian Premier League (IPL). Paine has said that he didn’t notice too many people being that nice to Kohli or not trying to get him dismissed. Paine further said that in the previous Test series between India and Australia, there was a quite a lot of heat and every Australian player tried to give their best with both bat and ball while adding that he is pretty sure that nobody would be thinking of an IPL contract when they are running in to bowl to Kohli. ALSO READ: 'Sit back and relax at home' - Kapil Dev dismisses Shoaib Akhtar’s proposal of India-Pakistan charity series to fight against COVID-19 "I certainly didn't notice too many people being that nice to Virat or not trying to get him out or anything like that," Paine told a leading cricket portal while adding: "I thought everyone who had the ball in their hand or when we were batting were trying their absolute best to win the game for Australia. I'm not sure who was going easy on him; we certainly had a thing where we didn't want to provoke any fight with him because we think that's when he plays at his best.” "Who knows what will happen this series and, as we saw in the documentary, there was still quite a lot of heat in some of those games. I certainly wasn't holding back, but again the IPL's not a huge draw for me at the moment, so I had nothing to lose. But anytime our guys go out and play a Test match for Australia, they'll be giving their absolute all and I'm pretty sure they're not thinking about an IPL contract when they're running in, bowling to Virat," Paine further said. ALSO READ: Cricketers agree virus package to support game Earlier, Clarke had said that India are extremely powerful in regards to the financial part of the game and that has led to Australian cricket and other teams to suck up to Indian cricket team. "Everybody knows how powerful India are in regards to the financial part of the game, whether that be internationally or domestically in regards to the IPL," Clarke said on the Big Sports Breakfast radio programme, while adding "so, I feel, Australian cricket, and probably every other team, over a little period went the opposite - actually sucked up to India. They were too scared to sledge Kohli or sledge the Indian players because they had to go and play with them in April.”

Not sure who went easy on Virat Kohli for IPL contract: Tim Paine rubbishes Michael Clarke's claims of Aussies being 'scared' to sledge India

<p>Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar on Wednesday proposed a three-match series between India and Pakistan, behind closed doors, in a bid to raise funds to combat the dreaded COVID-19 pandemic. Akhtar has said the matches can be a TV only affair and the three-match rubber can gain a massive following as everyone is sitting at home due to lockdown.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reacting to Akhtar’s proposal, former India skipper Kapil Dev, while speaking to a news channel, has said that this is not the time to think about cricket as the saving lives and getting through these dire situations should be the priority. Kapil said while Akhtar has good intentions behind the proposal, there is no need for anyone including the cricketers to step outside their house as per the directives.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-deepak-chahar-opens-up-on-life-in-lockdown-injuries-regaining-rhythm-and-love-for-guitar-289712">EXCLUSIVE: Deepak Chahar opens up on life in lockdown, injuries, regaining rhythm and love for guitar</a></strong></p>

<p>“India does not need money today so such a series should not be held. And why put our cricketers’ life in danger? So sit back and relax at home,” Dev told a news channel.</p>

<p>“Why take the risk of endangering even one life? There’s no need for anyone to give such suggestions. The authorities are trying their best to make people understand the importance of staying home. It’s easy to say things but organising such an event is extremely difficult.”</p>

<p>Earlier, Akhtar had suggested that the funds generated through the India-Pakistan series can be donated equally to the government of both the nations to fight COVID-19 pandemic.</p>

<p>“In this time of crisis, I want to propose a three-match series in which for the first time, the people of neither country would be upset at the outcome of the games,” Akhtar told PTI from Islamabad.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-we-are-all-in-it-together-mary-kom-opens-up-on-covid-19-pandemic-olympic-gold-dream-life-in-lockdown-and-more-290909" hreflang="en">Exclusive: 'We are all in it together' - Mary Kom opens up on COVID-19 pandemic, Olympic gold dream, life in lockdown and more</a></strong></p>

<p>“If Virat (Kohli) scores a hundred, we will be happy, if Babar Azam scores a hundred, you will be happy. Both teams will be winners irrespective of whatever happens on the field,” he said.</p>

<p>“It can be a TV only affair. Since everyone will be watching at home, you are bound to get massive viewership for the games. For the first time, both countries will play for each other. And whatever funds are generated through this can be donated equally to the government of India and Pakistan to fight this pandemic,” added the 44-year-old.</p>

<p>India and Pakistan have not played a full-fledged bilateral series 2007 amid the diplomatic tensions. Both the nations have locked horns only in the ICC events and Asia Cup.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It could even lead to resumption of bilateral cricketing ties and relations of both countries improve diplomatically. You never know,” said the ‘Rawalpindi Express’.</p>

<p>“The whole world will tune into it, so much money can be raised to deal with this crisis. In difficult times, the character of the nation comes forward.” In these extraordinary times, Akhtar feels both countries should help each other.</p>

<p>“If India can make 10,000 ventilators for us, Pakistan will remember this gesture forever. But we can only propose the matches. The rest is up to the authorities (to decide).”</p>


Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar on Wednesday proposed a three-match series between India and Pakistan, behind closed doors, in a bid to raise funds to combat the dreaded COVID-19 pandemic.

Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar on Wednesday proposed a three-match series between India and Pakistan, behind closed doors, in a bid to raise funds to combat the dreaded COVID-19 pandemic. Akhtar has said the matches can be a TV only affair and the three-match rubber can gain a massive following as everyone is sitting at home due to lockdown. Reacting to Akhtar’s proposal, former India skipper Kapil Dev, while speaking to a news channel, has said that this is not the time to think about cricket as the saving lives and getting through these dire situations should be the priority. Kapil said while Akhtar has good intentions behind the proposal, there is no need for anyone including the cricketers to step outside their house as per the directives. ALSO READ: EXCLUSIVE: Deepak Chahar opens up on life in lockdown, injuries, regaining rhythm and love for guitar “India does not need money today so such a series should not be held. And why put our cricketers’ life in danger? So sit back and relax at home,” Dev told a news channel. “Why take the risk of endangering even one life? There’s no need for anyone to give such suggestions. The authorities are trying their best to make people understand the importance of staying home. It’s easy to say things but organising such an event is extremely difficult.” Earlier, Akhtar had suggested that the funds generated through the India-Pakistan series can be donated equally to the government of both the nations to fight COVID-19 pandemic. “In this time of crisis, I want to propose a three-match series in which for the first time, the people of neither country would be upset at the outcome of the games,” Akhtar told PTI from Islamabad. ALSO READ: Exclusive: 'We are all in it together' - Mary Kom opens up on COVID-19 pandemic, Olympic gold dream, life in lockdown and more “If Virat (Kohli) scores a hundred, we will be happy, if Babar Azam scores a hundred, you will be happy. Both teams will be winners irrespective of whatever happens on the field,” he said. “It can be a TV only affair. Since everyone will be watching at home, you are bound to get massive viewership for the games. For the first time, both countries will play for each other. And whatever funds are generated through this can be donated equally to the government of India and Pakistan to fight this pandemic,” added the 44-year-old. India and Pakistan have not played a full-fledged bilateral series 2007 amid the diplomatic tensions. Both the nations have locked horns only in the ICC events and Asia Cup. “It could even lead to resumption of bilateral cricketing ties and relations of both countries improve diplomatically. You never know,” said the ‘Rawalpindi Express’. “The whole world will tune into it, so much money can be raised to deal with this crisis. In difficult times, the character of the nation comes forward.” In these extraordinary times, Akhtar feels both countries should help each other. “If India can make 10,000 ventilators for us, Pakistan will remember this gesture forever. But we can only propose the matches. The rest is up to the authorities (to decide).”

'Sit back and relax at home' - Kapil Dev dismisses Shoaib Akhtar’s proposal of India-Pakistan charity series to fight against COVID-19

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