The Olympic flame, which was lit in Greece and was on public display in the northeastern Fukushima region in Japan since last week, will be removed from display in Japan, officials confirmed on Thursday with the host of the Games bracing for a state of emergency due to COVID-19. The coronavirus pandemic had earlier forced the historic postponement of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.&nbsp;

With COVID-19 cases climbing in Japan, the Olympic organisers have decided to shelve the Olympic flame, which arrived in Japan on March 20 for a torch relay originally scheduled to start on March 26 and conclude at the Olympics opening ceremony on July 24.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/coronavirus-not-an-opportunity-for-athletes-to-dope-wada-president-291092" hreflang="en">Coronavirus not an opportunity for athletes to dope: WADA president</a>

"Originally we wanted to hold the public display until the end of April. But considering recent developments, we decided to stop," said a Tokyo 2020 organising committee spokesman.

Earlier, to keep the Olympic spirit alive in Japan, the organisers had decided to keep the flame in a lantern in Fukushima, where the relay was going to commence.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/as-bundesliga-clubs-resume-training-a-debate-over-fairness-and-fitness-291089" hreflang="en">As Bundesliga clubs resume training, a debate over fairness and fitness</a>

The Tokyo 2020 organising committee spokesman further said that organisers have no immediate plan to keep it on public display while avoiding public gathering around the storage location.

The flame arrived in Japan amid a muted welcome in front select officials and guests after plans to invite 200 school-going kids were scrapped.

The Olympic flame, which was lit in Greece and was on public display in the northeastern Fukushima region in Japan since last week, will be removed from display in Japan, officials confirmed on Thursday with the host of the Games bracing for a state of emergency due to COVID-19.

The Olympic flame, which was lit in Greece and was on public display in the northeastern Fukushima region in Japan since last week, will be removed from display in Japan, officials confirmed on Thursday with the host of the Games bracing for a state of emergency due to COVID-19. The coronavirus pandemic had earlier forced the historic postponement of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. With COVID-19 cases climbing in Japan, the Olympic organisers have decided to shelve the Olympic flame, which arrived in Japan on March 20 for a torch relay originally scheduled to start on March 26 and conclude at the Olympics opening ceremony on July 24. ALSO READ: Coronavirus not an opportunity for athletes to dope: WADA president "Originally we wanted to hold the public display until the end of April. But considering recent developments, we decided to stop," said a Tokyo 2020 organising committee spokesman. Earlier, to keep the Olympic spirit alive in Japan, the organisers had decided to keep the flame in a lantern in Fukushima, where the relay was going to commence. ALSO READ: As Bundesliga clubs resume training, a debate over fairness and fitness The Tokyo 2020 organising committee spokesman further said that organisers have no immediate plan to keep it on public display while avoiding public gathering around the storage location. The flame arrived in Japan amid a muted welcome in front select officials and guests after plans to invite 200 school-going kids were scrapped.

Japan ends Olympic flame display due to COVID-19 threat

With the top clubs in the Bundesliga already back in training, envious rivals across Europe are watching to see whether the Germans gain an edge or pay a price when play resumes.

Europe's top leagues are desperate to return to competition to avert financial disaster due to the coronavirus pandemic, but if they move too fast they could risk injuring their players. Moving too slow also comes at a cost.

In addition to the injury worry, when to resume training presents a problem of fairness, if some clubs can resume sooner than others it could distort competition and produce "crazy" results.&nbsp;

The issue has come up in Germany where, in line with an earlier recommendation by the German football league, Bundesliga leaders Bayern Munich and second-place Borussia Dortmund and a raft of other clubs resumed training in small groups on Monday. The Bundesliga hopes to return in early May, having ground to a halt in mid-March.

"We have to combine two central goals, namely to keep the players in a very good condition and at the same time avoid possible infections", Martin Przondziono, the Paderborn sports director, told SID, AFP's German subsidiary.

RB Leipzig had continued with non-contact training throughout and Augsburg resumed on March 23. By Monday, only Freiburg and Werder Bremen of the Bundesliga clubs had not resumed.&nbsp;

Werder Bremen coach Florian Kohfeldt, unable to train his squad because of local regulations, told SID he was worried about "distortion of competition".

In an interview published on Friday, Carlo Ancelotti, the veteran Italian manager, now in charge at Everton, emphasised that point.

"One of the important things is that all the clubs resume training at the same time, that there are no disparities, that no one has an advantage over the others," the 60-year-old Italian told L'Equipe.

Coach Julian Nagelsmann of RB Leipzig is already putting his players through their paces.

"My players haven't lost too much fitness," &nbsp;Nagelsmann said. "They'll be back in shape in a week and a half or two."

The question of how long players need to safely regain match fitness&nbsp;will face all of Europe's top clubs after the unprecedented mid-season interruption.&nbsp;

"It depends on how long they are confined," Spanish coach Juanjo Del Ojo, a fitness trainer at Monaco in French Ligue 1, told AFP.

"If it lasts five or six weeks, we would need a minimum of three weeks before we can return to the competition with certainty and reduce the risk of injury."

<h2>- 'Really weird' -&nbsp;</h2>

Xavier Frezza, an independent coach who works with French professional footballers, told AFP "players have never experienced this in their entire lives.

"A pro player only has a three- to four-week break in the summer, and many of them still do a few things," he added.

"Two months is going to be really weird for them."&nbsp;

"Some studies have shown a correlation between the number of full training sessions before resuming competition and a reduction in injuries," he said.

For the players, self-discipline during the lockdown will play a big role.

Those who have kept in shape and avoided weight gain will come back much better than those who have not.&nbsp;

That explains why Bayern Munich introduced compulsory group training by video conference from the first day of confinement, maintaining a rhythm and team peer pressure.&nbsp;

The risks are all the greater as any resumption will bear no resemblance to the pre-season, when the pace picks up gradually.&nbsp;

The clubs will have to complete the high-pressure part of the season playing twice a week at home and in Europe.&nbsp;

<h2>- 'A big difference' -</h2>

This raises the question of whether clubs that start training first will have an advantage over those that have been confined for longer.&nbsp;

"A week's difference, when you don't even have three weeks of preparation, physically and technically it can make a big difference," said Frezza.

Former Borussia Dortmund captain Sebastian Kehl suspects some "crazy" results if and when the league resumes after the forced hiatus.

"My guess is that the results will be more unpredictable, there will be movement in the table with the odd surprise or two," the 40-year-old, part of Dortmund's management team, told Monday's edition of German magazine Kicker.

With the top clubs in the Bundesliga already back in training, envious rivals across Europe are watching to see whether the Germans gain an edge or pay a price when play resumes.

With the top clubs in the Bundesliga already back in training, envious rivals across Europe are watching to see whether the Germans gain an edge or pay a price when play resumes. Europe's top leagues are desperate to return to competition to avert financial disaster due to the coronavirus pandemic, but if they move too fast they could risk injuring their players. Moving too slow also comes at a cost. In addition to the injury worry, when to resume training presents a problem of fairness, if some clubs can resume sooner than others it could distort competition and produce "crazy" results. The issue has come up in Germany where, in line with an earlier recommendation by the German football league, Bundesliga leaders Bayern Munich and second-place Borussia Dortmund and a raft of other clubs resumed training in small groups on Monday. The Bundesliga hopes to return in early May, having ground to a halt in mid-March. "We have to combine two central goals, namely to keep the players in a very good condition and at the same time avoid possible infections", Martin Przondziono, the Paderborn sports director, told SID, AFP's German subsidiary. RB Leipzig had continued with non-contact training throughout and Augsburg resumed on March 23. By Monday, only Freiburg and Werder Bremen of the Bundesliga clubs had not resumed. Werder Bremen coach Florian Kohfeldt, unable to train his squad because of local regulations, told SID he was worried about "distortion of competition". In an interview published on Friday, Carlo Ancelotti, the veteran Italian manager, now in charge at Everton, emphasised that point. "One of the important things is that all the clubs resume training at the same time, that there are no disparities, that no one has an advantage over the others," the 60-year-old Italian told L'Equipe. Coach Julian Nagelsmann of RB Leipzig is already putting his players through their paces. "My players haven't lost too much fitness," Nagelsmann said. "They'll be back in shape in a week and a half or two." The question of how long players need to safely regain match fitness will face all of Europe's top clubs after the unprecedented mid-season interruption. "It depends on how long they are confined," Spanish coach Juanjo Del Ojo, a fitness trainer at Monaco in French Ligue 1, told AFP. "If it lasts five or six weeks, we would need a minimum of three weeks before we can return to the competition with certainty and reduce the risk of injury." - 'Really weird' - Xavier Frezza, an independent coach who works with French professional footballers, told AFP "players have never experienced this in their entire lives. "A pro player only has a three- to four-week break in the summer, and many of them still do a few things," he added. "Two months is going to be really weird for them." "Some studies have shown a correlation between the number of full training sessions before resuming competition and a reduction in injuries," he said. For the players, self-discipline during the lockdown will play a big role. Those who have kept in shape and avoided weight gain will come back much better than those who have not. That explains why Bayern Munich introduced compulsory group training by video conference from the first day of confinement, maintaining a rhythm and team peer pressure. The risks are all the greater as any resumption will bear no resemblance to the pre-season, when the pace picks up gradually. The clubs will have to complete the high-pressure part of the season playing twice a week at home and in Europe. - 'A big difference' - This raises the question of whether clubs that start training first will have an advantage over those that have been confined for longer. "A week's difference, when you don't even have three weeks of preparation, physically and technically it can make a big difference," said Frezza. Former Borussia Dortmund captain Sebastian Kehl suspects some "crazy" results if and when the league resumes after the forced hiatus. "My guess is that the results will be more unpredictable, there will be movement in the table with the odd surprise or two," the 40-year-old, part of Dortmund's management team, told Monday's edition of German magazine Kicker.

As Bundesliga clubs resume training, a debate over fairness and fitness

Veteran off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has said that he won’t mind playing the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 behind closed doors, in front of empty stands, as it will allow every fan to watch the tournament on their television sets.

Harbhajan, who plays for Chennai Super Kings, is of the view that the organisers have prioritise players and staff’s safety by ensuring that the stadiums, hotels, flights are properly sanitized while adding a lot of lives will be on the line if IPL 2020 takes place. &nbsp;

<o:p>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/as-bundesliga-clubs-resume-training-a-debate-over-fairness-and-fitness-291089" hreflang="en">As Bundesliga clubs resume training, a debate over fairness and fitness</a>

"Spectators are important, but if the situation arises, I don't mind playing without them. Yes, as a player I won't get the vibe, but this will ensure that every fan will get to watch IPL on their TV," Harbhajan told the host broadcasters.

"We will have to be cautious about everything and should prioritise players' safety by ensuring that the match venues, team hotels, flights are properly sanitized. A lot of lives are on the line so we should organise IPL when everything is fine," he added.

IPL 2020, which was earlier scheduled to start from March 29, was suspended till April 15 in the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak in the country. And given the current nationwide lockdown, it is unlikely that the cash-rich tournament will take place.

<o:p>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-a-good-idea-waqar-younis-on-cricket-in-empty-stadiums-amid-covid-19-pandemic-290948" hreflang="en">‘Not a good idea...' - Waqar Younis on cricket in empty stadiums amid COVID-19 pandemic</a>

"I miss matches the most, was hoping that I would get to play 17 matches (including finals) after a year's gap. I miss our visits to the ground, the hordes of fans waiting to greet us, the bikes that used to ride along our bus and am sure that every fan is missing this as well," Harbhajan said.

"I hope that IPL happens soon, till then I will keep myself fit," quipped the 39-year-old veteran of 103 Tests.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p></o:p>

Veteran off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has said that he won’t mind playing the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 behind closed doors, in front of empty stands, as it will allow every fan to watch the tournament on their television sets.

Veteran off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has said that he won’t mind playing the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 behind closed doors, in front of empty stands, as it will allow every fan to watch the tournament on their television sets. Harbhajan, who plays for Chennai Super Kings, is of the view that the organisers have prioritise players and staff’s safety by ensuring that the stadiums, hotels, flights are properly sanitized while adding a lot of lives will be on the line if IPL 2020 takes place. ALSO READ: As Bundesliga clubs resume training, a debate over fairness and fitness "Spectators are important, but if the situation arises, I don't mind playing without them. Yes, as a player I won't get the vibe, but this will ensure that every fan will get to watch IPL on their TV," Harbhajan told the host broadcasters. "We will have to be cautious about everything and should prioritise players' safety by ensuring that the match venues, team hotels, flights are properly sanitized. A lot of lives are on the line so we should organise IPL when everything is fine," he added. IPL 2020, which was earlier scheduled to start from March 29, was suspended till April 15 in the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak in the country. And given the current nationwide lockdown, it is unlikely that the cash-rich tournament will take place. ALSO READ: ‘Not a good idea...' - Waqar Younis on cricket in empty stadiums amid COVID-19 pandemic "I miss matches the most, was hoping that I would get to play 17 matches (including finals) after a year's gap. I miss our visits to the ground, the hordes of fans waiting to greet us, the bikes that used to ride along our bus and am sure that every fan is missing this as well," Harbhajan said. "I hope that IPL happens soon, till then I will keep myself fit," quipped the 39-year-old veteran of 103 Tests.

Harbhajan Singh fine with the idea of IPL 2020 behind closed doors

Former Australian skipper Michael Clarke reckons it is due to the Indian Premier League (IPL) that Australian cricketers are scared to sledge Virat Kohli or other Indian players during bilateral series or other tournaments. Clarke is of the view that players are too afraid to sledge any of the Indian players due to the huge bucks they are bagging for participating in the IPL while adding some feel that sledging Indian players could affect their deals in the cash-rich tournament.&nbsp;

Clarke further opined that over the years, not only Australia but other international teams have been scared to sledge the Indian teams just because of the financial part of the game.

Speaking on Big Sports Breakfast, Clarke said: "Everybody knows how powerful India are in regards to the financial part of the game, internationally or domestically with the IPL. I feel that Australian cricket, and probably every other team over a little period, went the opposite and actually sucked up to India. They were too scared to sledge Kohli or the other Indian players because they had to play with them in April."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-is-massive-hope-there-is-a-way-to-schedule-ipl-later-in-the-year-rajasthan-royals-jos-buttler-291119" hreflang="en">IPL is massive, hope there is a way to schedule IPL later in the year: Rajasthan Royals' Jos Buttler</a>

The likes of Pat Cummins, Glenn Maxwell, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Marcus Stoinis, Aaron Finch, Kane Richardson, Alex Carey, Mitchell Marsh, Josh Hazlewood, Andrew Tye, Chris Green, Josh Phillipe among others Australian players who went for massive bucks and found takers in the latest IPL auction, which was held in Kolkata in December 2019.&nbsp;

"Name a list of ten players and they are bidding for these Australian players to get into their IPL team," Clarke said. "The players were like: 'I'm not going to sledge Kohli, I want him to pick me for Bangalore so I can make my $1 million US for my six weeks'. I feel like that's where Australia went through that little phase where our cricket became a little bit softer or not as hard as we're accustomed to seeing."&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/harbhajan-singh-fine-with-the-idea-of-ipl-2020-behind-closed-doors-291101" hreflang="en">Harbhajan Singh fine with the idea of IPL 2020 behind closed doors</a>

Australia went through a rough patch since the sandpaper-gate incident in Cape Town in 2018 but after a rough ride, the Baggy Green bounced back strong in the ICC World Cup 2019 and the Ashes and has been on a roll ever since then. Australia are also the host of ICC T20 World Cup 2020 and will be eyeing the coveted trophy in front of their home crowd. 
&nbsp;

Former Australian skipper Michael Clarke reckons it is due to the Indian Premier League (IPL) that Australian cricketers are scared to sledge Virat Kohli or other Indian players during bilateral series or other tournaments.

Former Australian skipper Michael Clarke reckons it is due to the Indian Premier League (IPL) that Australian cricketers are scared to sledge Virat Kohli or other Indian players during bilateral series or other tournaments. Clarke is of the view that players are too afraid to sledge any of the Indian players due to the huge bucks they are bagging for participating in the IPL while adding some feel that sledging Indian players could affect their deals in the cash-rich tournament. Clarke further opined that over the years, not only Australia but other international teams have been scared to sledge the Indian teams just because of the financial part of the game. Speaking on Big Sports Breakfast, Clarke said: "Everybody knows how powerful India are in regards to the financial part of the game, internationally or domestically with the IPL. I feel that Australian cricket, and probably every other team over a little period, went the opposite and actually sucked up to India. They were too scared to sledge Kohli or the other Indian players because they had to play with them in April." ALSO READ: IPL is massive, hope there is a way to schedule IPL later in the year: Rajasthan Royals' Jos Buttler The likes of Pat Cummins, Glenn Maxwell, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Marcus Stoinis, Aaron Finch, Kane Richardson, Alex Carey, Mitchell Marsh, Josh Hazlewood, Andrew Tye, Chris Green, Josh Phillipe among others Australian players who went for massive bucks and found takers in the latest IPL auction, which was held in Kolkata in December 2019. "Name a list of ten players and they are bidding for these Australian players to get into their IPL team," Clarke said. "The players were like: 'I'm not going to sledge Kohli, I want him to pick me for Bangalore so I can make my $1 million US for my six weeks'. I feel like that's where Australia went through that little phase where our cricket became a little bit softer or not as hard as we're accustomed to seeing." ALSO READ: Harbhajan Singh fine with the idea of IPL 2020 behind closed doors Australia went through a rough patch since the sandpaper-gate incident in Cape Town in 2018 but after a rough ride, the Baggy Green bounced back strong in the ICC World Cup 2019 and the Ashes and has been on a roll ever since then. Australia are also the host of ICC T20 World Cup 2020 and will be eyeing the coveted trophy in front of their home crowd.

Australian players too scared to sledge Virat Kohli or Indian players due to IPL deals: Michael Clarke

With the COVID-19 continuing to wreak havoc, the sporting calendar has been ripped into pieces. With all the major tournaments and events cancelled or postponed, all eyes are on the fate of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, which was suspended till April 15 in the wake of coronavirus outbreak in India.&nbsp;

While India is in under a 21-day lockdown period in a bid to curb the spread of deadly COVID-19, the likelihood of IPL 2020 looks bleak. England and Rajasthan Royals batsman Jos Buttler has said that it is a ‘big shame’ that IPL 2020 has been affected by the pandemic.&nbsp;

Buttler termed IPL as ‘massive’ for the revenue and crowd attraction it brings to the table while adding the future of IPL 2020 is indefinite as no one knows how the COVID-19 pandemic will last.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/harbhajan-singh-fine-with-the-idea-of-ipl-2020-behind-closed-doors-291101" hreflang="en">Harbhajan Singh fine with the idea of IPL 2020 behind closed doors</a>

"I don't know any more than you know about when IPL would be played or people talking about whether it can be pushed back. At the moment, everything is quite indefinite as no one knows how long it will last. So it can't be decided at the moment when it could or could not happen," Buttler was quoted as saying by a news portal.

"As for the stature of the tournament, it's a massive, massive tournament. Revenue that is involved in IPL is massive. It is a very important competition to cricket and it's a big shame that it's not going ahead or whether it does have the way to push it in the schedule and allow it," the 2019 World Cup winner added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-a-good-idea-waqar-younis-on-cricket-in-empty-stadiums-amid-covid-19-pandemic-290948" hreflang="en">‘Not a good idea...' - Waqar Younis on cricket in empty stadiums amid COVID-19 pandemic</a>

As per reports, the BCCI is looking for an alternative window later in the year to conduct IPL 2020. However, that will mean some big-name players will miss out on the tournament due to bilateral commitments. "Of course, that might mean certain players might be unavailable. They will have to work through as the situation unfolds," Buttler concluded.&nbsp;

With the COVID-19 continuing to wreak havoc, the sporting calendar has been ripped into pieces. With all the major tournaments and events cancelled or postponed, all eyes are on the fate of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, which was suspended till April 15 in the wake of coronavirus outbreak in India.

With the COVID-19 continuing to wreak havoc, the sporting calendar has been ripped into pieces. With all the major tournaments and events cancelled or postponed, all eyes are on the fate of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, which was suspended till April 15 in the wake of coronavirus outbreak in India. While India is in under a 21-day lockdown period in a bid to curb the spread of deadly COVID-19, the likelihood of IPL 2020 looks bleak. England and Rajasthan Royals batsman Jos Buttler has said that it is a ‘big shame’ that IPL 2020 has been affected by the pandemic. Buttler termed IPL as ‘massive’ for the revenue and crowd attraction it brings to the table while adding the future of IPL 2020 is indefinite as no one knows how the COVID-19 pandemic will last. ALSO READ: Harbhajan Singh fine with the idea of IPL 2020 behind closed doors "I don't know any more than you know about when IPL would be played or people talking about whether it can be pushed back. At the moment, everything is quite indefinite as no one knows how long it will last. So it can't be decided at the moment when it could or could not happen," Buttler was quoted as saying by a news portal. "As for the stature of the tournament, it's a massive, massive tournament. Revenue that is involved in IPL is massive. It is a very important competition to cricket and it's a big shame that it's not going ahead or whether it does have the way to push it in the schedule and allow it," the 2019 World Cup winner added. ALSO READ: ‘Not a good idea...' - Waqar Younis on cricket in empty stadiums amid COVID-19 pandemic As per reports, the BCCI is looking for an alternative window later in the year to conduct IPL 2020. However, that will mean some big-name players will miss out on the tournament due to bilateral commitments. "Of course, that might mean certain players might be unavailable. They will have to work through as the situation unfolds," Buttler concluded.

IPL is massive, hope there is a way to schedule IPL later in the year: Rajasthan Royals' Jos Buttler

Chinese Super League (CSL) players were under growing pressure Tuesday to take a pay cut in line with the likes of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, as coronavirus hits football hard.

The CSL has some of the best-paid coaches and players in the world with Shanghai SIPG's Brazilian attacking midfielder Oscar reportedly earning nearly $30 million a year.

However, while many CSL players have donated masks and other equipment in the fight against the pandemic, which has caused all football to stop, there is no unified response.

The CSL season was supposed to begin on February 22 but was indefinitely postponed because of the outbreak, which began in China in December before spreading worldwide.&nbsp;

The campaign is unlikely to begin before late May at the earliest even though China says that the number of locally transmitted infections and deaths has dwindled.

State-run Xinhua news agency published a lengthy article debating whether CSL clubs should follow Messi's Barcelona and Ronaldo's Juventus in temporarily cutting salaries by as much as 70 percent.

Bayern Munich's players have also agreed to take a pay cut, as have those at other clubs in the Bundesliga, while a similar argument is raging in the English Premier League.

A video conference involving CSL clubs on Thursday will likely see salary cuts discussed, the Beijing News said.

Other media went further, saying that a salary reduction will definitely be broached in Chinese Football Association (CFA) talks this week.&nbsp;

Xinhua cited online polls of fans showing that the overwhelming majority &nbsp;-- in one instance 90 percent of respondents -- were in favour a pay cut.

But it noted that some fans are against reducing salaries because, unlike in suspended European leagues, CSL teams are already in training for the new season even though it has no start date.

Xinhua quoted one CSL club as being "inclined to cut pay" but is awaiting guidance from the CFA and FIFA.

"All clubs are watching, the problem is that no one wants to be the first," the news agency cited another as saying.

An opinion piece in the Oriental Sports Daily argued that with almost all industries badly affected by coronavirus, it was unfair to single out footballers.

"Many people (in China) are very resentful of Chinese football, saying that these people have taken so much money... and should use their salaries to pay more to scientists and doctors, but this is a misunderstanding," wrote Ge Aiping.

"I haven't seen any news of a Chinese Super League player who proposed a voluntary pay cut.

"(But) money is not easy to earn and if you want to give it out, you really need to struggle with yourself."

Chinese football sprang to prominence in recent years by dishing out world-leading wages to foreign players and coaches, but the CFA has since reined in spending.

Chinese Super League (CSL) players were under growing pressure Tuesday to take a pay cut in line with the likes of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, as coronavirus hits football hard.

Chinese Super League (CSL) players were under growing pressure Tuesday to take a pay cut in line with the likes of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, as coronavirus hits football hard. The CSL has some of the best-paid coaches and players in the world with Shanghai SIPG's Brazilian attacking midfielder Oscar reportedly earning nearly $30 million a year. However, while many CSL players have donated masks and other equipment in the fight against the pandemic, which has caused all football to stop, there is no unified response. The CSL season was supposed to begin on February 22 but was indefinitely postponed because of the outbreak, which began in China in December before spreading worldwide. The campaign is unlikely to begin before late May at the earliest even though China says that the number of locally transmitted infections and deaths has dwindled. State-run Xinhua news agency published a lengthy article debating whether CSL clubs should follow Messi's Barcelona and Ronaldo's Juventus in temporarily cutting salaries by as much as 70 percent. Bayern Munich's players have also agreed to take a pay cut, as have those at other clubs in the Bundesliga, while a similar argument is raging in the English Premier League. A video conference involving CSL clubs on Thursday will likely see salary cuts discussed, the Beijing News said. Other media went further, saying that a salary reduction will definitely be broached in Chinese Football Association (CFA) talks this week. Xinhua cited online polls of fans showing that the overwhelming majority -- in one instance 90 percent of respondents -- were in favour a pay cut. But it noted that some fans are against reducing salaries because, unlike in suspended European leagues, CSL teams are already in training for the new season even though it has no start date. Xinhua quoted one CSL club as being "inclined to cut pay" but is awaiting guidance from the CFA and FIFA. "All clubs are watching, the problem is that no one wants to be the first," the news agency cited another as saying. An opinion piece in the Oriental Sports Daily argued that with almost all industries badly affected by coronavirus, it was unfair to single out footballers. "Many people (in China) are very resentful of Chinese football, saying that these people have taken so much money... and should use their salaries to pay more to scientists and doctors, but this is a misunderstanding," wrote Ge Aiping. "I haven't seen any news of a Chinese Super League player who proposed a voluntary pay cut. "(But) money is not easy to earn and if you want to give it out, you really need to struggle with yourself." Chinese football sprang to prominence in recent years by dishing out world-leading wages to foreign players and coaches, but the CFA has since reined in spending.

Chinese football agonises over wage cuts in face of coronavirus

French Ligue 1 club Reims were on Sunday in mourning for long-serving club doctor Bernard Gonzalez who committed suicide after being diagnosed with coronavirus, sources confirmed.

"Devastated, Reims cries for Bernard Gonzalez," said a statement released by the Ligue 1 club.

"Not just the club but also hundreds of men and women in Reims."

Contacted by AFP, Reims mayor Arnaud Robinet said he had been made aware of the suicide of the 60-year-old, who had worked at the club for over 20 years, by the local prefecture.

"I was told Doctor Gonzalez had left a note in which he mentioned that he had tested positive for COVID-19."

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Médecin. Artiste. Stadiste. 
Docteur Gonzalez. 
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— Stade de Reims (@StadeDeReims) <a href="https://twitter.com/StadeDeReims/status/1246878278608183298?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

A medical source also confirmed to AFP the existence of this letter but added that the doctor had appeared "to be in good shape two days ago".

"I am shocked by his death because he was someone I had known for many years," said Robinet.

"No only was he the club doctor, but he was also the GP of many people in Reims. He was known for his human and professional qualities.

"He will be missed by the football family and all those in Reims who met him."

Reims club president Jean-Pierre Caillot said he was "stunned" by the news.&nbsp;

"This pandemic has struck Reims in the heart. A great personality and great professional of the sport has left us," said Caillot.

More than 8,000 people have died from the coronavirus in France.

French Ligue 1 club Reims were on Sunday in mourning for long-serving club doctor Bernard Gonzalez who committed suicide after being diagnosed with coronavirus, sources confirmed.

French Ligue 1 club Reims were on Sunday in mourning for long-serving club doctor Bernard Gonzalez who committed suicide after being diagnosed with coronavirus, sources confirmed. "Devastated, Reims cries for Bernard Gonzalez," said a statement released by the Ligue 1 club. "Not just the club but also hundreds of men and women in Reims." Contacted by AFP, Reims mayor Arnaud Robinet said he had been made aware of the suicide of the 60-year-old, who had worked at the club for over 20 years, by the local prefecture. "I was told Doctor Gonzalez had left a note in which he mentioned that he had tested positive for COVID-19." Médecin. Artiste. Stadiste. Docteur Gonzalez. pic.twitter.com/Wlw6Bbr7gc — Stade de Reims (@StadeDeReims) April 5, 2020 × A medical source also confirmed to AFP the existence of this letter but added that the doctor had appeared "to be in good shape two days ago". "I am shocked by his death because he was someone I had known for many years," said Robinet. "No only was he the club doctor, but he was also the GP of many people in Reims. He was known for his human and professional qualities. "He will be missed by the football family and all those in Reims who met him." Reims club president Jean-Pierre Caillot said he was "stunned" by the news. "This pandemic has struck Reims in the heart. A great personality and great professional of the sport has left us," said Caillot. More than 8,000 people have died from the coronavirus in France.

French club doctor 'commits suicide' after coronavirus diagnosis

The planning has gone out of the window thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic but hope is intact for India's professional boxing star Vijender Singh, who is optimistic of resuming his currently on-hold career in the second half of the year.

Unbeaten in the circuit with 12 wins, Vijender is contracted with Hall of Famer Bob Arum's Top Rank Promotions in the US, which has been ravaged by the deadly outbreak with the death toll nearing 10,000.

"I was supposed to fight in May but that is cancelled for now because of the current situation. But I am hopeful things will improve and I will get to fight later in the year. I think it will work out," the 34-year-old, who holds the distinction of being India's first Olympic medallist in boxing, told PTI.

"Obviously, I am at a loss but there is nothing that can be done. So, you just make peace with it and wait for things to normalise," he added.

The 34-year-old said he is continuing to train at home in Delhi to stay in shape.

"I have everything at home to ensure that I don't need to step out. I do my training on my own, which is not unusual because I have the luxury of a trainer only when I am in England," he said.

Vijender's trainer is Manchester-based Lee Beard, who joins him a few weeks before his fights.

"The idea is to keep my body in shape for whenever the action resumes. I am doing it at home because in any case, you cannot move out," he said.

The boxer is also an active politician and fought Lok Sabha elections on a Congress ticket last year.

Vijender has been actively questioning the government response to the pandemic, which has led to over 100 deaths so far in the country. He said it is not just his right but also his responsibility as a public figure.

"I have spoken to doctors who tell me that we should be testing more people. I hope it is being done. We can only hope that the situation doesn't get worse, look at what's happening around the world, it's scary," he said.

"So I do raise questions on how we are doing. We all should even if it comes with a bit of trolling, we should not stop asking for better," he added.

And it's not that he isn't doing his bit in the crisis.

"I avoid getting into mass-feeding of people because that would ensure that social distancing goes for a toss, defeating the whole purpose of a lockdown. So what I do is ensure that ration reaches needy families," he said.

"I am directly in touch with people and reach out wherever there is a requirement," he said.

The global COVID-19 death toll is inching towards 70,000.

Close to 13,00,000 positive cases have wreaked havoc on the health care systems across the world with no clear breakthrough yet on the treatment of the deadly disease.

The planning has gone out of the window thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic but hope is intact for India's professional boxing star Vijender Singh, who is optimistic of resuming his currently on-hold career in the second half of the year.

The planning has gone out of the window thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic but hope is intact for India's professional boxing star Vijender Singh, who is optimistic of resuming his currently on-hold career in the second half of the year. Unbeaten in the circuit with 12 wins, Vijender is contracted with Hall of Famer Bob Arum's Top Rank Promotions in the US, which has been ravaged by the deadly outbreak with the death toll nearing 10,000. "I was supposed to fight in May but that is cancelled for now because of the current situation. But I am hopeful things will improve and I will get to fight later in the year. I think it will work out," the 34-year-old, who holds the distinction of being India's first Olympic medallist in boxing, told PTI. "Obviously, I am at a loss but there is nothing that can be done. So, you just make peace with it and wait for things to normalise," he added. The 34-year-old said he is continuing to train at home in Delhi to stay in shape. "I have everything at home to ensure that I don't need to step out. I do my training on my own, which is not unusual because I have the luxury of a trainer only when I am in England," he said. Vijender's trainer is Manchester-based Lee Beard, who joins him a few weeks before his fights. "The idea is to keep my body in shape for whenever the action resumes. I am doing it at home because in any case, you cannot move out," he said. The boxer is also an active politician and fought Lok Sabha elections on a Congress ticket last year. Vijender has been actively questioning the government response to the pandemic, which has led to over 100 deaths so far in the country. He said it is not just his right but also his responsibility as a public figure. "I have spoken to doctors who tell me that we should be testing more people. I hope it is being done. We can only hope that the situation doesn't get worse, look at what's happening around the world, it's scary," he said. "So I do raise questions on how we are doing. We all should even if it comes with a bit of trolling, we should not stop asking for better," he added. And it's not that he isn't doing his bit in the crisis. "I avoid getting into mass-feeding of people because that would ensure that social distancing goes for a toss, defeating the whole purpose of a lockdown. So what I do is ensure that ration reaches needy families," he said. "I am directly in touch with people and reach out wherever there is a requirement," he said. The global COVID-19 death toll is inching towards 70,000. Close to 13,00,000 positive cases have wreaked havoc on the health care systems across the world with no clear breakthrough yet on the treatment of the deadly disease.

Vijender Singh hopes for pro career to resume in second half of 2020

Bayern Munich said Sunday that players will return to training on Monday for the first time since the Bundesliga was suspended due to the coronavirus.

Bayern led the table by four points when the season was halted on March 13.

"The Bayern Munich first team will return to training in small groups from Monday, April 6," said a statement from the club.

"This will&nbsp;be done in coordination with government policy and the relevant authorities.&nbsp;

"It goes without saying that all hygiene regulations will be strictly observed."

German football league officials had already advised a break in training until Sunday at the earliest.

Bayern said that training will be held in private with no members of the public allowed.

"In order to further slow the spread of the coronavirus, Bayern asks fans to continue to follow the instructions of the authorities and therefore please do not come to the Bayern training ground," added the statement.

More than 1,300 people have died in Germany from the coronavirus.

Bayern Munich said Sunday that players will return to training on Monday for the first time since the Bundesliga was suspended due to the coronavirus. Bayern led the table by four points when the season was halted on March 13.

Bayern Munich said Sunday that players will return to training on Monday for the first time since the Bundesliga was suspended due to the coronavirus. Bayern led the table by four points when the season was halted on March 13. "The Bayern Munich first team will return to training in small groups from Monday, April 6," said a statement from the club. "This will be done in coordination with government policy and the relevant authorities. "It goes without saying that all hygiene regulations will be strictly observed." German football league officials had already advised a break in training until Sunday at the earliest. Bayern said that training will be held in private with no members of the public allowed. "In order to further slow the spread of the coronavirus, Bayern asks fans to continue to follow the instructions of the authorities and therefore please do not come to the Bayern training ground," added the statement. More than 1,300 people have died in Germany from the coronavirus.

Bayern Munich to resume training on Monday

#9pm9minutes: Indian sports fraternity show solidarity by lighting up diyas!

Former Pakistan speedster and the current bowling coach of Pakistan cricket team, Waqar Younis on Monday said that he doesn’t agree with the suggestion that cricket matches should resume anytime soon behind closed doors, in front of empty stands. <o:p></o:p>

The COVID-19 pandemic has ripped apart the sporting calendar with major tournaments and events getting either cancelled or postponed. While many bilateral series were affected due to the outbreak of the dreaded virus, high-profile tournaments such as Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2020 was also postponed mid-way. Waqar said that maybe in five or six months’ time, cricket can be resumed when things are under control.

<o:p>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/man-city-boss-pep-guardiolas-mother-dies-after-contracting-covid-19-clubs-issues-statement-290934" hreflang="en">Man City boss Pep Guardiola's mother dies after contracting COVID-19; clubs issues statement</a>

“No I don’t agree with this suggestion that cricket activities should resume soon even before empty stadiums,” Waqar said, during a video conference with journalists on Monday<o:p></o:p>

“I think maybe in five or six months’ time. when things are under control around the world and we get back some normalcy in life, we can think about matches behind closed doors,” the former fast bowler said. “At some stage, we need to think about these choices but not this month or next month...the situation is not right for any cricket activities,” he added.<o:p></o:p>

Pakistan’s last major ICC title was way back in 2017 where the then Sarfaraz Khan-led outfit defeated India to win the ICC Champions Trophy. Since then, it has been a downfall for the Green Army, as a unit. However, Waqar has a strong desire to help Pakistan win another major ICC title and hence, the forthcoming ICC T20 World Cup is important.

<o:p>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/delhi-shooting-world-cup-cancelled-due-to-covid-19-pandemic-290917" hreflang="en">Delhi shooting World Cup cancelled due to COVID-19 pandemic</a>

“Whenever I have played for Pakistan as a player or been a coach with the Pakistan team it has always been my desire to see the team win a major ICC title. That is why this World T20 is so important for me and the team,” he said.<o:p></o:p>

“I would like to be the part of management where we can win a major title,” Waqar added.<o:p></o:p>

Former Pakistan speedster and the current bowling coach of Pakistan cricket team, Waqar Younis on Monday said that he doesn’t agree with the suggestion that cricket matches should resume anytime soon behind closed doors, in front of empty stands.

Former Pakistan speedster and the current bowling coach of Pakistan cricket team, Waqar Younis on Monday said that he doesn’t agree with the suggestion that cricket matches should resume anytime soon behind closed doors, in front of empty stands. The COVID-19 pandemic has ripped apart the sporting calendar with major tournaments and events getting either cancelled or postponed. While many bilateral series were affected due to the outbreak of the dreaded virus, high-profile tournaments such as Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2020 was also postponed mid-way. Waqar said that maybe in five or six months’ time, cricket can be resumed when things are under control. ALSO READ: Man City boss Pep Guardiola's mother dies after contracting COVID-19; clubs issues statement “No I don’t agree with this suggestion that cricket activities should resume soon even before empty stadiums,” Waqar said, during a video conference with journalists on Monday “I think maybe in five or six months’ time. when things are under control around the world and we get back some normalcy in life, we can think about matches behind closed doors,” the former fast bowler said. “At some stage, we need to think about these choices but not this month or next month...the situation is not right for any cricket activities,” he added. Pakistan’s last major ICC title was way back in 2017 where the then Sarfaraz Khan-led outfit defeated India to win the ICC Champions Trophy. Since then, it has been a downfall for the Green Army, as a unit. However, Waqar has a strong desire to help Pakistan win another major ICC title and hence, the forthcoming ICC T20 World Cup is important. ALSO READ: Delhi shooting World Cup cancelled due to COVID-19 pandemic “Whenever I have played for Pakistan as a player or been a coach with the Pakistan team it has always been my desire to see the team win a major ICC title. That is why this World T20 is so important for me and the team,” he said. “I would like to be the part of management where we can win a major title,” Waqar added.

‘Not a good idea...' - Waqar Younis on cricket in empty stadiums amid COVID-19 pandemic

Mother of current Manchester City manager and former Spain international, Pep Guardiola breathed her last on Monday after contracting COVID-19 virus. Dolors Sala Carrio, aged 82, on Monday passed away in Manresa, Barcelona after she was diagnosed with the dreaded coronavirus. <o:p></o:p>

Manchester City on Monday released a statement confirming the tragic news as they stated: “The Manchester City family are devastated to report the death today of Pep’s mother Dolors Sala Carrió in Manresa, Barcelona after contracting Corona Virus. She was 82-years-old. Everyone associated with the club sends their most heartfelt sympathy at this most distressing time to Pep, his family and all their friends.”

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The Manchester City family are devastated to report the death today of Pep’s mother Dolors Sala Carrió in Manresa, Barcelona after contracting Corona Virus. She was 82-years-old .
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<o:p>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-set-to-extend-2019-20-football-season-indefinitely-amid-covid-19-pandemic-290885" hreflang="en">FIFA set to extend 2019-20 football season indefinitely amid COVID-19 pandemic</a>

Guardiola has been one of the most active managers in spreading awareness surrounding the deadly COVID-19. The former Barcelona manager had earlier donated €1million to help provide medical equipment in the fight against COVID-19 in Spain. <o:p></o:p>

The former Spanish midfielder had vowed that everyone will come out of the situation surrounding the coronavirus stronger while urging people to follow the advisory by the medical experts and government.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<o:p></o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/transfer-fees-will-decrease-due-to-covid-19-bayern-munich-president-herbert-hainer-290882" hreflang="en">'Transfer fees will decrease due to COVID-19': Bayern Munich president Herbert Hainer</a>

"We miss football. We miss the life that we had a few days ago but now is the time to listen, to follow our scientists, doctors and nurses," Guardiola had said in a video.<o:p></o:p>

"You are my football family and we are going to do everything possible to make you feel better. We’ll come back from this stronger, better, kinder…and a little bit fatter. Stay inside, stay safe,” he added.<o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, with football season around the world suspended indefinitely, players and managers have been restricted to online coaching with limited training (only indoors).<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

Mother of current Manchester City manager and former Spain international, Pep Guardiola breathed her last on Monday after contracting COVID-19 virus. Dolors Sala Carrio, aged 82, on Monday passed away in Manresa, Barcelona after she was diagnosed with the dreaded coronavirus.

Mother of current Manchester City manager and former Spain international, Pep Guardiola breathed her last on Monday after contracting COVID-19 virus. Dolors Sala Carrio, aged 82, on Monday passed away in Manresa, Barcelona after she was diagnosed with the dreaded coronavirus. Manchester City on Monday released a statement confirming the tragic news as they stated: “The Manchester City family are devastated to report the death today of Pep’s mother Dolors Sala Carrió in Manresa, Barcelona after contracting Corona Virus. She was 82-years-old. Everyone associated with the club sends their most heartfelt sympathy at this most distressing time to Pep, his family and all their friends.” The Manchester City family are devastated to report the death today of Pep’s mother Dolors Sala Carrió in Manresa, Barcelona after contracting Corona Virus. She was 82-years-old . — Manchester City (@ManCity) April 6, 2020 × ALSO READ: FIFA set to extend 2019-20 football season indefinitely amid COVID-19 pandemic Guardiola has been one of the most active managers in spreading awareness surrounding the deadly COVID-19. The former Barcelona manager had earlier donated €1million to help provide medical equipment in the fight against COVID-19 in Spain. The former Spanish midfielder had vowed that everyone will come out of the situation surrounding the coronavirus stronger while urging people to follow the advisory by the medical experts and government. ALSO READ: 'Transfer fees will decrease due to COVID-19': Bayern Munich president Herbert Hainer "We miss football. We miss the life that we had a few days ago but now is the time to listen, to follow our scientists, doctors and nurses," Guardiola had said in a video. "You are my football family and we are going to do everything possible to make you feel better. We’ll come back from this stronger, better, kinder…and a little bit fatter. Stay inside, stay safe,” he added. Meanwhile, with football season around the world suspended indefinitely, players and managers have been restricted to online coaching with limited training (only indoors).

Man City boss Pep Guardiola's mother dies after contracting COVID-19; clubs issues statement

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