The debate surrounding who is the better all-rounder between Indian cricketer Hardik Pandya and Englishman Ben Stokes has always been stiff. With mixed opinions, the cricket fraternity has always been left divided when it comes to picking the better all-rounder between Hardik and Stokes. While Stokes has won matches for England single-handedly, Hardik, in the last year or so, has emerged as one of the biggest threats with both bat and ball when it comes to white-ball cricket.&nbsp;

Former Australian spinner Brad Hogg was asked by a fan to pick the better all-rounder between Hardik and Stokes and the former chinaman bowler went with the Christchurch-born Stokes. A fan took to social media platform Twitter to ask Hogg a question as he wrote: “@Brad_Hogg Who is better as an All-rounder, Hardik Pandya or Ben Stokes??”

To which Hogg replied: “I have to go with the Englishman on this one. Hardik has huge potential, but hasn't played enough international cricket to challenge Stokes as the all-rounder of my World XI."

ALSO READ:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lets-stay-indoors-india-from-kohli-to-ashwin-sports-fraternity-reacts-as-pm-narendra-modi-announces-complete-lockdown-for-21-days-288297">&nbsp;From Kohli to Ashwin, sports fraternity reacts as PM Narendra Modi announces complete lockdown for 21 days</a>

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I have to go with the Englishman on this one. Hardik has huge potential, but hasn't played enough international cricket to challenge Stokes as the all rounder of my world XI. <a href="https://t.co/8u0jpfc7Dv">https://t.co/8u0jpfc7Dv</a>
— Brad Hogg (@Brad_Hogg) <a href="https://twitter.com/Brad_Hogg/status/1242301774532202497?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The year 2019 was memorable for Stokes as he was the hero for England in their title triumph in ICC World Cup 2019. Stokes further played some splendid knocks in the Ashes 2019 where he played a key role with both bat and ball, notably in the Headlingley Test, where he had stitched a last-wicket partnership of 75 runs with Jack Leach to help England win the Test from a near improbable situation.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-president-sourav-ganguly-opens-up-on-fate-of-ipl-2020-says-cant-say-anything-at-the-moment-288269">BCCI president Sourav Ganguly opens up on fate of IPL 2020, says 'can't say anything at the moment'</a>

Whereas, Hardik was sidelined due to constant injuries and didn’t play much after the World Cup in England and Wales. The flamboyant all-rounder was supposed to make a comeback to the Indian team in the three-match ODI series against South Africa but it was aborted mid-way due to COVID-19 outbreak.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The debate surrounding who is the better all-rounder between Indian cricketer Hardik Pandya and Englishman Ben Stokes has always been stiff. With mixed opinions, the cricket fraternity has always been left divided when it comes to picking the better all-rounder between Hardik and Stokes.

The debate surrounding who is the better all-rounder between Indian cricketer Hardik Pandya and Englishman Ben Stokes has always been stiff. With mixed opinions, the cricket fraternity has always been left divided when it comes to picking the better all-rounder between Hardik and Stokes. While Stokes has won matches for England single-handedly, Hardik, in the last year or so, has emerged as one of the biggest threats with both bat and ball when it comes to white-ball cricket. Former Australian spinner Brad Hogg was asked by a fan to pick the better all-rounder between Hardik and Stokes and the former chinaman bowler went with the Christchurch-born Stokes. A fan took to social media platform Twitter to ask Hogg a question as he wrote: “@Brad_Hogg Who is better as an All-rounder, Hardik Pandya or Ben Stokes??” To which Hogg replied: “I have to go with the Englishman on this one. Hardik has huge potential, but hasn't played enough international cricket to challenge Stokes as the all-rounder of my World XI." ALSO READ: From Kohli to Ashwin, sports fraternity reacts as PM Narendra Modi announces complete lockdown for 21 days I have to go with the Englishman on this one. Hardik has huge potential, but hasn't played enough international cricket to challenge Stokes as the all rounder of my world XI. https://t.co/8u0jpfc7Dv — Brad Hogg (@Brad_Hogg) March 24, 2020 × The year 2019 was memorable for Stokes as he was the hero for England in their title triumph in ICC World Cup 2019. Stokes further played some splendid knocks in the Ashes 2019 where he played a key role with both bat and ball, notably in the Headlingley Test, where he had stitched a last-wicket partnership of 75 runs with Jack Leach to help England win the Test from a near improbable situation. ALSO READ: BCCI president Sourav Ganguly opens up on fate of IPL 2020, says 'can't say anything at the moment' Whereas, Hardik was sidelined due to constant injuries and didn’t play much after the World Cup in England and Wales. The flamboyant all-rounder was supposed to make a comeback to the Indian team in the three-match ODI series against South Africa but it was aborted mid-way due to COVID-19 outbreak.

'I have to go with...' - Brad Hogg picks better all-rounder between Hardik Pandya and Ben Stokes

Hundreds of luxury apartments overlooking Tokyo Bay that were due to be converted from the Athletes' Village have already been sold -- just one of the many headaches caused by the historic postponement of the Tokyo Olympics.

Touted by developers as a "flagship neighbourhood for urban lifestyles", the buildings housing the 11,000 competitors were to be hastily repurposed into more than 4,000 condos with stunning city views, some carrying a price tag of 170 million yen ($1.5 million).

The decision to postpone the Games by up to a year has pitched buyers into uncertainty, according to Zoe Ward, director of Tokyo Property Central, with close to 900 units already snapped up.

"Even if it's not a financial hit, it's going to be a big inconvenience to them," Ward told AFP.

She added that buyers would now be scouring the small print of their contracts to see if they can pull out without losing their deposits -- usually around five percent.

"The wording they put in the contract is pretty vague, it normally says natural disasters or anything outside the sellers' control so it might fall under that category," said the property expert.

One buyer, a man in his 30s, had been planning to move into the development in March 2023 with his wife and children and told AFP there were "many, many scenarios" that could now arise.

However, he was relatively zen about the delay given the unprecedented coronavirus situation.

"I'm not so stupid as to see the coronavirus effect as being a problem on the same level as a construction defect. I would say it can't be helped. I'm sure the selling side is facing a hard time," said the man, who declined to be named.

<h2>- 'Double whammy' -</h2>

Tomohiro Makino, CEO of consulting firm Oraga Research and an expert on Japanese real estate, told AFP that developers faced a "double whammy" of a falling market generally and image problems with the Olympic Village project.

"There is a concern prices could drop. If excitement and anticipation (about the Olympics) fades away, the situation will be severe for the selling side. For now, cancellations are a critical problem for them," said Makino.

One of the biggest draws -- being part of the Olympic legacy -- could now be tarnished, he added.

He said developers should have legal cover from a force majeure clause but given the high profile of the project, they may be inclined to show flexibility -- especially as only a quarter of the units have been put up for sale.

"The selling side has been forced into making a tough decision," he said.

Sellers had marketed the development, which comprises 23 tower blocks capable of housing up to 12,000 people, as "the city complex where everything begins" with views of the ocean, Tokyo Tower and the metropolis' glittering skyline.

The 18-hectare (45 acre) plot would also feature schools, a playground, swimming pool and gym. As the apartments are renovated from elite athletes' accommodation, they are also slightly bigger than average Tokyo flats, which tend to be on the small side.

"Looking from the sky, the new neighbourhood appears like a large flag right in the middle of Tokyo. It has limitless potential as a new flagship model for urban lifestyles," according to the promotional material.

<h2>- 'Clear schedule' -</h2>

The development is a joint-venture bringing together 11 of Japan's top real estate firms.

A spokeswoman for one of the firms, Mitsui Fudosan Co, told AFP: "We are&nbsp;hurriedly assessing the impact of the postponement of the Olympics with companies and officials involved in the project."

The sale of the second batch of units has been delayed from March to June or later, said another official at the company, insisting this was "due to the effect of the new coronavirus. It's nothing to do with a possible postponement of the Olympics".&nbsp;

Ward said that while uncertainty hung over both buyers and developers, the situation was better than the limbo they faced before the International Olympic Committee and Japan's unprecedented decision.

"Once the government gets a clear schedule (for the Games to go ahead), then the project will start doing active sales again. Up until (the night before the decision), I think it was worse for buyers because no one knew what they were doing," she said.

"I feel like it's good news because a cancellation would be far worse for everyone's attitude and general feeling. I think an extension is the best thing we could have. Going through with it would be terrible and cancelling it would be worse."

Hundreds of luxury apartments overlooking Tokyo Bay that were due to be converted from the Athletes' Village have already been sold -- just one of the many headaches caused by the historic postponement of the Tokyo Olympics.

Hundreds of luxury apartments overlooking Tokyo Bay that were due to be converted from the Athletes' Village have already been sold -- just one of the many headaches caused by the historic postponement of the Tokyo Olympics. Touted by developers as a "flagship neighbourhood for urban lifestyles", the buildings housing the 11,000 competitors were to be hastily repurposed into more than 4,000 condos with stunning city views, some carrying a price tag of 170 million yen ($1.5 million). The decision to postpone the Games by up to a year has pitched buyers into uncertainty, according to Zoe Ward, director of Tokyo Property Central, with close to 900 units already snapped up. "Even if it's not a financial hit, it's going to be a big inconvenience to them," Ward told AFP. She added that buyers would now be scouring the small print of their contracts to see if they can pull out without losing their deposits -- usually around five percent. "The wording they put in the contract is pretty vague, it normally says natural disasters or anything outside the sellers' control so it might fall under that category," said the property expert. One buyer, a man in his 30s, had been planning to move into the development in March 2023 with his wife and children and told AFP there were "many, many scenarios" that could now arise. However, he was relatively zen about the delay given the unprecedented coronavirus situation. "I'm not so stupid as to see the coronavirus effect as being a problem on the same level as a construction defect. I would say it can't be helped. I'm sure the selling side is facing a hard time," said the man, who declined to be named. - 'Double whammy' - Tomohiro Makino, CEO of consulting firm Oraga Research and an expert on Japanese real estate, told AFP that developers faced a "double whammy" of a falling market generally and image problems with the Olympic Village project. "There is a concern prices could drop. If excitement and anticipation (about the Olympics) fades away, the situation will be severe for the selling side. For now, cancellations are a critical problem for them," said Makino. One of the biggest draws -- being part of the Olympic legacy -- could now be tarnished, he added. He said developers should have legal cover from a force majeure clause but given the high profile of the project, they may be inclined to show flexibility -- especially as only a quarter of the units have been put up for sale. "The selling side has been forced into making a tough decision," he said. Sellers had marketed the development, which comprises 23 tower blocks capable of housing up to 12,000 people, as "the city complex where everything begins" with views of the ocean, Tokyo Tower and the metropolis' glittering skyline. The 18-hectare (45 acre) plot would also feature schools, a playground, swimming pool and gym. As the apartments are renovated from elite athletes' accommodation, they are also slightly bigger than average Tokyo flats, which tend to be on the small side. "Looking from the sky, the new neighbourhood appears like a large flag right in the middle of Tokyo. It has limitless potential as a new flagship model for urban lifestyles," according to the promotional material. - 'Clear schedule' - The development is a joint-venture bringing together 11 of Japan's top real estate firms. A spokeswoman for one of the firms, Mitsui Fudosan Co, told AFP: "We are hurriedly assessing the impact of the postponement of the Olympics with companies and officials involved in the project." The sale of the second batch of units has been delayed from March to June or later, said another official at the company, insisting this was "due to the effect of the new coronavirus. It's nothing to do with a possible postponement of the Olympics". Ward said that while uncertainty hung over both buyers and developers, the situation was better than the limbo they faced before the International Olympic Committee and Japan's unprecedented decision. "Once the government gets a clear schedule (for the Games to go ahead), then the project will start doing active sales again. Up until (the night before the decision), I think it was worse for buyers because no one knew what they were doing," she said. "I feel like it's good news because a cancellation would be far worse for everyone's attitude and general feeling. I think an extension is the best thing we could have. Going through with it would be terrible and cancelling it would be worse."

A concrete problem: Olympic delay spells limbo on Athletes' Village

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday praised Japan's decision to delay the Tokyo Olympics over the coronavirus pandemic and indicated he will attend the rescheduled games next year.

"Congratulations to Prime Minister Abe of Japan, and the IOC, on their very wise decision to present the Olympics in 2021," Trump tweeted. "It will be a great success, and I look forward to being there!"

Trump faces a reelection battle this year and his campaign has likewise been upended by the global pandemic, which has prompted governments to order mass shutdowns of movement and economic activity.

So far the International Olympic Committee and Japan have not set a date for the rescheduled Games next year. If Trump does not secure a second term in November's vote, he will leave office in January 2021.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday praised Japan's decision to delay the Tokyo Olympics over the coronavirus pandemic and indicated he will attend the rescheduled games next year.

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday praised Japan's decision to delay the Tokyo Olympics over the coronavirus pandemic and indicated he will attend the rescheduled games next year. "Congratulations to Prime Minister Abe of Japan, and the IOC, on their very wise decision to present the Olympics in 2021," Trump tweeted. "It will be a great success, and I look forward to being there!" Trump faces a reelection battle this year and his campaign has likewise been upended by the global pandemic, which has prompted governments to order mass shutdowns of movement and economic activity. So far the International Olympic Committee and Japan have not set a date for the rescheduled Games next year. If Trump does not secure a second term in November's vote, he will leave office in January 2021.

Donald Trump praises 2020 Tokyo Olympics delay, says will attend in 2021

With the novel coronavirus spreading like wildfire, the sporting calendar has been put to an unusual halt. Major tournaments and leagues have been either cancelled or postponed owning the grave conditions due to the COVID-19. As Indian cricketers continue to spend their time, away from the game, at their respective houses, their fitness is crucial given that they have to step in whenever the sporting events resume. Team India’s strength and conditioning coach Nick Webb, in consultation with physio Nitin Patel, has created customised training routines for Virat Kohli and Co in a bid to keep them in top shape despite the break.

All the players have been handed with fitness routines which they will follow during this break while providing regular updates to Webb and Patel. The routine has been created keeping the demands of the players in mind.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-president-ganguly-to-donate-rice-worth-rs-50-lakh-for-underprivileged-288489">BCCI president Ganguly to donate rice worth Rs 50 lakh for underprivileged</a>

“All the players, irrespective of whether they play red-ball cricket or white-ball cricket or all formats have been given fitness routines which they are to follow and give updates to Webb and Patel from time to time. The routines have been created keeping in mind the demands of the players. So, for example, a bowler has been given exercises which work to make his core and lower body strong. Similarly, a batsman has been given exercises which also work on his shoulders and wrists,” a source was quoted as saying by a news agency.

“So, for example, someone like a Kohli loves to train with weights as well. So, his routine would have weights involved like the clean and jerk and deadlifts and other exercises. While another player might be more comfortable doing free-hand exercises, so in that case, he has been given more free weight functional training options,” the source added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/most-of-my-time-now-is-spent-in-tracking-updates-on-covid-19-says-harbhajan-288490">Most of my time now is spent in tracking updates on COVID-19, says Harbhajan</a>

Meanwhile, pressure has been mounting on the BCCI to make a final call regarding IPL 2020 with all the major tournaments getting cancelled or postponed. Earlier on Tuesday, BCCI president Sourav Ganguly ruled out a delayed IPL 2020 citing the Future Tours Programme (FTP) and it would be interesting to see what final decision the BCCI takes in the coming weeks.

With the novel coronavirus spreading like wildfire, the sporting calendar has been put to an unusual halt. Major tournaments and leagues have been either cancelled or postponed owning the grave conditions due to the COVID-19.

With the novel coronavirus spreading like wildfire, the sporting calendar has been put to an unusual halt. Major tournaments and leagues have been either cancelled or postponed owning the grave conditions due to the COVID-19. As Indian cricketers continue to spend their time, away from the game, at their respective houses, their fitness is crucial given that they have to step in whenever the sporting events resume. Team India’s strength and conditioning coach Nick Webb, in consultation with physio Nitin Patel, has created customised training routines for Virat Kohli and Co in a bid to keep them in top shape despite the break. All the players have been handed with fitness routines which they will follow during this break while providing regular updates to Webb and Patel. The routine has been created keeping the demands of the players in mind. ALSO READ: BCCI president Ganguly to donate rice worth Rs 50 lakh for underprivileged “All the players, irrespective of whether they play red-ball cricket or white-ball cricket or all formats have been given fitness routines which they are to follow and give updates to Webb and Patel from time to time. The routines have been created keeping in mind the demands of the players. So, for example, a bowler has been given exercises which work to make his core and lower body strong. Similarly, a batsman has been given exercises which also work on his shoulders and wrists,” a source was quoted as saying by a news agency. “So, for example, someone like a Kohli loves to train with weights as well. So, his routine would have weights involved like the clean and jerk and deadlifts and other exercises. While another player might be more comfortable doing free-hand exercises, so in that case, he has been given more free weight functional training options,” the source added. ALSO READ: Most of my time now is spent in tracking updates on COVID-19, says Harbhajan Meanwhile, pressure has been mounting on the BCCI to make a final call regarding IPL 2020 with all the major tournaments getting cancelled or postponed. Earlier on Tuesday, BCCI president Sourav Ganguly ruled out a delayed IPL 2020 citing the Future Tours Programme (FTP) and it would be interesting to see what final decision the BCCI takes in the coming weeks.

Amid COVID-19 pandemic, Virat Kohli & Co. handed customised workout routines to be in top shape

Sport is now the last thing on Harbhajan Singh's mind and as the world grapples with the COVID-19 pandemic, the cricketer is spending time tracking updates on the unprecedented crisis and hoping that this too shall pass.

Like all others, the veteran spinner is with his family (wife Geeta and daughter Hinaya) in Mumbai, hoping that scientists and doctors would make a breakthrough to tackle pandemic that has claimed more than 20,000 lives.

"You see life from a completely different perspective in these times of crisis. Sport is farthest from your mind at this point in time. Now that I am home, I am spending most of my time reading anything and everything about COVID-19," Harbhajan told PTI on Wednesday.

So what exactly does he read? "I try to read every authentic piece of information available. All updates provided by the government about the current situation. And yes, most importantly, I try to read and find out what kind of breakthrough scientists, biologists and doctors are making.

"You need to keep your spirits up and be self-motivated in these trying times. Any positive information lifts your spirits," the 39-year-old said.

Harbhajan was in Chennai at the CSK pre-season camp when the IPL got postponed. While this is a forced break from his busy schedule, which also includes commentary, he is getting to spend some precious time with his wife and daughter.

"Me and my wife do yoga together in the morning. We are now taking time out to play scrabble and darts in the evening. At times, we watch a movie together," he said.

The best part is spending time with his three-year-old daughter, playing with her.

"The break has given me an opportunity to spend quality time with Hinaya. It's really joyful when I get to play with her. It lifts my spirit. Right now all I want is everybody to be safe," he added.

Sport is now the last thing on Harbhajan Singh's mind and as the world grapples with the COVID-19 pandemic, the cricketer is spending time tracking updates on the unprecedented crisis and hoping that this too shall pass.

Sport is now the last thing on Harbhajan Singh's mind and as the world grapples with the COVID-19 pandemic, the cricketer is spending time tracking updates on the unprecedented crisis and hoping that this too shall pass. Like all others, the veteran spinner is with his family (wife Geeta and daughter Hinaya) in Mumbai, hoping that scientists and doctors would make a breakthrough to tackle pandemic that has claimed more than 20,000 lives. "You see life from a completely different perspective in these times of crisis. Sport is farthest from your mind at this point in time. Now that I am home, I am spending most of my time reading anything and everything about COVID-19," Harbhajan told PTI on Wednesday. So what exactly does he read? "I try to read every authentic piece of information available. All updates provided by the government about the current situation. And yes, most importantly, I try to read and find out what kind of breakthrough scientists, biologists and doctors are making. "You need to keep your spirits up and be self-motivated in these trying times. Any positive information lifts your spirits," the 39-year-old said. Harbhajan was in Chennai at the CSK pre-season camp when the IPL got postponed. While this is a forced break from his busy schedule, which also includes commentary, he is getting to spend some precious time with his wife and daughter. "Me and my wife do yoga together in the morning. We are now taking time out to play scrabble and darts in the evening. At times, we watch a movie together," he said. The best part is spending time with his three-year-old daughter, playing with her. "The break has given me an opportunity to spend quality time with Hinaya. It's really joyful when I get to play with her. It lifts my spirit. Right now all I want is everybody to be safe," he added.

Most of my time now is spent in tracking updates on COVID-19, says Harbhajan

The BCCI president Sourav Ganguly has come forward in support of those affected by the 21-day lockdown due to COVID-19 pandemic, pledging to donate rice worth Rs 50 lakh for the underprivileged.

Ganguly along with Lal Baba Rice will provide for the needy people who have been put in government schools for safety and security, the Cricket Association of Bengal announced in a statement.

"Hope this initiative of Ganguly would encourage other citizens of the state to take up similar initiatives to serve the people of our state," the statement from the company added.

The 1.3-billion populated India has gone into a total lockdown from midnight in an attempt to slow the spread of COVID-19 virus and CAB secretary Snehashis Ganguly hailed the unprecedented step.

There have been 600 confirmed cases across India and 10 reported deaths as the world's second-most populous country's coronavirus graph was on the rise.

Worldwide about 400,000 people have tested positive for the virus, while the toll is around 17,000

The BCCI president Sourav Ganguly has come forward in support of those affected by the 21-day lockdown due to COVID-19 pandemic, pledging to donate rice worth Rs 50 lakh for the underprivileged.

The BCCI president Sourav Ganguly has come forward in support of those affected by the 21-day lockdown due to COVID-19 pandemic, pledging to donate rice worth Rs 50 lakh for the underprivileged. Ganguly along with Lal Baba Rice will provide for the needy people who have been put in government schools for safety and security, the Cricket Association of Bengal announced in a statement. "Hope this initiative of Ganguly would encourage other citizens of the state to take up similar initiatives to serve the people of our state," the statement from the company added. The 1.3-billion populated India has gone into a total lockdown from midnight in an attempt to slow the spread of COVID-19 virus and CAB secretary Snehashis Ganguly hailed the unprecedented step. There have been 600 confirmed cases across India and 10 reported deaths as the world's second-most populous country's coronavirus graph was on the rise. Worldwide about 400,000 people have tested positive for the virus, while the toll is around 17,000

BCCI president Ganguly to donate rice worth Rs 50 lakh for underprivileged

There has been a lot of talks around the form and future of Rishabh Pant. While the southpaw has been backed by the Indian team management and most of the experts to be the face of Indian cricket for a long time, there are others who have asked Pant to be dropped from the Indian team given his inconsistency with the willow and gloves. Former Australia spinner Brad Hogg has opined that Pant has got “too much talent to know what to do with” while adding the youngster will be better with a coach who will see him through his troubles.

"Definitely, I turn on my television when Rishabh Pant comes to the crease, the entertainer," said Hogg.

"His issue is he has got too much talent to know what to do with. He could do with a mind coach, a lot of great sportsmen use them. It is all in the mind for him," Hogg added.

Hogg’s take on Pant came during an interactive session with fans on Twitter on Wednesday where the chinaman bowler was asked whether the Indian wicket-keeper can become one of the best wicket-keepers in the world.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravichandran-ashwin-uses-mankad-incident-with-jos-buttler-to-aware-everyone-of-covid-19-threat-rajasthan-royals-respond-288463">Ravichandran Ashwin uses 'Mankad' incident with Jos Buttler to aware everyone of COVID-19 threat; Rajasthan Royals respond</a>

Pant’s inconsistent run of form has seen him lose the gloves and place to the in-form KL Rahul in white-ball cricket. While he was preferred over Wriddhiman Saha in the Test series against New Zealand, Pant returned with scores of 19, 25, 12 and 4.

Earlier, former Australian wicket-keeper Adam Gilchrist had urged Pant to not follow what Mahendra Singh Dhoni has been doing and make an identity for himself.

There has been a lot of talks around the form and future of Rishabh Pant. While the southpaw has been backed by the Indian team management and most of the experts to be the face of Indian cricket for a long time, there are others who have asked Pant to be dropped from the Indian team given his inconsistency with the willow and gloves. Former Australia spinner Brad Hogg has opined that Pant has got “too much talent to know what to do with” while adding the youngster will be better with a coach who will see him through his troubles.

"Definitely, I turn on my television when Rishabh Pant comes to the crease, the entertainer," said Hogg.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/the-fate-of-ipl-2020-hangs-by-thin-thread-with-no-preparations-and-talks-288424">The fate of IPL 2020 hangs by thin thread with no preparations and talks</a>

"His issue is he has got too much talent to know what to do with. He could do with a mind coach, a lot of great sportsmen use them. It is all in the mind for him," Hogg added.

Hogg’s take on Pant came during an interactive session with fans on Twitter on Wednesday where the chinaman bowler was asked whether the Indian wicket-keeper can become one of the best wicket-keepers in the world.

Pant’s inconsistent run of form has seen him lose the gloves and place to the in-form KL Rahul in white-ball cricket. While he was preferred over Wriddhiman Saha in the Test series against New Zealand, Pant returned with scores of 19, 25, 12 and 4.

Earlier, former Australian wicket-keeper Adam Gilchrist had urged Pant to not follow what Mahendra Singh Dhoni has been doing and make an identity for himself.

&nbsp;

There has been a lot of talks around the form and future of Rishabh Pant. While the southpaw has been backed by the Indian team management and most of the experts to be the face of Indian cricket for a long time, there are others who have asked Pant to be dropped from the Indian team given his inconsistency with the willow and gloves.

There has been a lot of talks around the form and future of Rishabh Pant. While the southpaw has been backed by the Indian team management and most of the experts to be the face of Indian cricket for a long time, there are others who have asked Pant to be dropped from the Indian team given his inconsistency with the willow and gloves. Former Australia spinner Brad Hogg has opined that Pant has got “too much talent to know what to do with” while adding the youngster will be better with a coach who will see him through his troubles. "Definitely, I turn on my television when Rishabh Pant comes to the crease, the entertainer," said Hogg. "His issue is he has got too much talent to know what to do with. He could do with a mind coach, a lot of great sportsmen use them. It is all in the mind for him," Hogg added. Hogg’s take on Pant came during an interactive session with fans on Twitter on Wednesday where the chinaman bowler was asked whether the Indian wicket-keeper can become one of the best wicket-keepers in the world. ALSO READ: Ravichandran Ashwin uses 'Mankad' incident with Jos Buttler to aware everyone of COVID-19 threat; Rajasthan Royals respond Pant’s inconsistent run of form has seen him lose the gloves and place to the in-form KL Rahul in white-ball cricket. While he was preferred over Wriddhiman Saha in the Test series against New Zealand, Pant returned with scores of 19, 25, 12 and 4. Earlier, former Australian wicket-keeper Adam Gilchrist had urged Pant to not follow what Mahendra Singh Dhoni has been doing and make an identity for himself. There has been a lot of talks around the form and future of Rishabh Pant. While the southpaw has been backed by the Indian team management and most of the experts to be the face of Indian cricket for a long time, there are others who have asked Pant to be dropped from the Indian team given his inconsistency with the willow and gloves. Former Australia spinner Brad Hogg has opined that Pant has got “too much talent to know what to do with” while adding the youngster will be better with a coach who will see him through his troubles. "Definitely, I turn on my television when Rishabh Pant comes to the crease, the entertainer," said Hogg. ALSO READ: The fate of IPL 2020 hangs by thin thread with no preparations and talks "His issue is he has got too much talent to know what to do with. He could do with a mind coach, a lot of great sportsmen use them. It is all in the mind for him," Hogg added. Hogg’s take on Pant came during an interactive session with fans on Twitter on Wednesday where the chinaman bowler was asked whether the Indian wicket-keeper can become one of the best wicket-keepers in the world. Pant’s inconsistent run of form has seen him lose the gloves and place to the in-form KL Rahul in white-ball cricket. While he was preferred over Wriddhiman Saha in the Test series against New Zealand, Pant returned with scores of 19, 25, 12 and 4. Earlier, former Australian wicket-keeper Adam Gilchrist had urged Pant to not follow what Mahendra Singh Dhoni has been doing and make an identity for himself.

'His issue is...' - Brad Hogg evaluates how Rishabh Pant can become the best for Team India

The COVID-19 pandemic has made the entire world come to a stand-still with many countries going under lockdown in a bid to curb the spread of the deadly virus. In India, the positive number of cases surged to 562 on Tuesday and almost every athlete has been urging everyone to stay at their home.

However, veteran Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has been one of the few to remain extremely active on social media platform Twitter in a bid to spread awareness surrounding the COVID-19.

Ashwin on Wednesday gave a hilarious throwback to the much-talked-about incident from IPL 2019 where he had run Englishman Jos Buttler out (Mankad-ed him) in a match between Rajasthan Royals and Kings XI Punjab.&nbsp;The veteran Indian spinner posted a photograph from the incident while urging everyone to take a lesson from it and stay inside your crease, in this case inside your home.&nbsp;

“Hahaha, somebody sent me this and told me it's exactly been 1 year since this run out happened. As the nation goes into a lockdown, this is a good reminder to my citizens. Don't wander out. Stay inside, stay safe! #21DayLockdown,” Ashwin captioned the photograph.&nbsp;

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Hahaha, somebody sent me this and told me it's exactly been 1 year since this run out happened. 
 
As the nation goes into a lockdown, this is a good reminder to my citizens. 
 
Don't wander out. Stay inside, stay safe! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/21DayLockdown?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#21DayLockdown</a> <a href="https://t.co/bSN1454kFt">pic.twitter.com/bSN1454kFt</a>
— lets stay indoors India (@ashwinravi99) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99/status/1242682607906648064?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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While fans started to laud Ashwin for his creativeness and will to aware every one of the novel coronavirus, Rajasthan Royals joined in as they retweeted it by saying: “How to keep distance from memories during a #21daylockdown?”

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How to keep distance from memories during a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/21daylockdown?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#21daylockdown</a>? <a href="https://t.co/GIQbX6bsqv">https://t.co/GIQbX6bsqv</a>
— Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajasthanroyals/status/1242785515234930688?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The banter between Ashwin and RR comes as sheer freshness amid the testing times as not only India but the entire world continues to fight back against COVID-19.&nbsp;

With every major tournament and leagues getting postponed and Indian government ordering complete lockdown for 21 days, the sportspersons have taken help of social media to keep their fans engaged while asking everyone, repeatedly, to maintain social distancing by saying at home. 
&nbsp;

The COVID-19 pandemic has made the entire world come to a stand-still with many countries going under lockdown in a bid to curb the spread of the deadly virus. In India, the positive number of cases surged to 562 on Tuesday and almost every athlete has been urging everyone to stay at their home.

The COVID-19 pandemic has made the entire world come to a stand-still with many countries going under lockdown in a bid to curb the spread of the deadly virus. In India, the positive number of cases surged to 562 on Tuesday and almost every athlete has been urging everyone to stay at their home. However, veteran Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has been one of the few to remain extremely active on social media platform Twitter in a bid to spread awareness surrounding the COVID-19. Ashwin on Wednesday gave a hilarious throwback to the much-talked-about incident from IPL 2019 where he had run Englishman Jos Buttler out (Mankad-ed him) in a match between Rajasthan Royals and Kings XI Punjab. The veteran Indian spinner posted a photograph from the incident while urging everyone to take a lesson from it and stay inside your crease, in this case inside your home. “Hahaha, somebody sent me this and told me it's exactly been 1 year since this run out happened. As the nation goes into a lockdown, this is a good reminder to my citizens. Don't wander out. Stay inside, stay safe! #21DayLockdown,” Ashwin captioned the photograph. Hahaha, somebody sent me this and told me it's exactly been 1 year since this run out happened. As the nation goes into a lockdown, this is a good reminder to my citizens. Don't wander out. Stay inside, stay safe! #21DayLockdown pic.twitter.com/bSN1454kFt — lets stay indoors India (@ashwinravi99) March 25, 2020 × While fans started to laud Ashwin for his creativeness and will to aware every one of the novel coronavirus, Rajasthan Royals joined in as they retweeted it by saying: “How to keep distance from memories during a #21daylockdown?” How to keep distance from memories during a #21daylockdown? https://t.co/GIQbX6bsqv — Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) March 25, 2020 × The banter between Ashwin and RR comes as sheer freshness amid the testing times as not only India but the entire world continues to fight back against COVID-19. With every major tournament and leagues getting postponed and Indian government ordering complete lockdown for 21 days, the sportspersons have taken help of social media to keep their fans engaged while asking everyone, repeatedly, to maintain social distancing by saying at home.

Ravichandran Ashwin uses 'Mankad' incident with Jos Buttler to aware everyone of COVID-19 threat; Rajasthan Royals respond

Relief and finally a sense of closure as athletes around the world are no longer going to have to risk the health and safety of their families to pursue their Olympic dreams.

The postponement of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics to an unspecified date next year had been widely expected, in the end, both japan and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) had to bow down to unprecedented rebellion from the sporting community.

“We felt under pressure to train, we felt under pressure to compete because obviously the Olympics is a few months away and we need to obviously kind of train ourselves and not de-train and some athletes would go into those facilities and put other people at risk,” Adam peaty, 2016 Olympic champion, swimming, said.

"It's a bummer, it's a bummer that I won't be able to compete in the Olympics this year, but you have to understand the situation, understand that some things are a little bigger than sport, and I guess we'll have it next year,” Pole Vault world record holder, Mondo Duplantis said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/postponed-tokyo-olympics-will-need-sacrifes-and-compromises-from-all-stakeholders-ioc-president-thomas-bach-288443">Postponed Tokyo Olympics will need 'sacrifices and compromises' from all stakeholders: IOC president Thomas Bach</a>

The global sporting calendar has been virtually decimated by the coronavirus pandemic since the start of February.

A decision to postpone the Olympic games is never easy, Tokyo will go down in history as the first games to have been postponed in peacetime…

There are millions of hotel rooms and thousands of flights that have been booked by athletes, officials, sponsors and fans and the media...

Japan has spent more than 12.5 billion dollars on the games till now and it is bound to rise exponentially now. There are thousands of critical games staff who have been employed in Tokyo and face an uncertain future. Pushing back the games was easy, what follows afterwards is a logistical nightmare

The Olympic flame, which arrived in Japan a couple of days ago, will stay in Japan until the games will finally begin. And we also agreed that the name will be kept as 'Olympic Games Tokyo 2020', again to show our commitment and the highly symbolic meaning of these Olympic Games who then hopefully can and will be, in the end, a celebration of humankind having overcome this unprecedented challenge of the coronavirus," IOC president Thomas Cach had said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/covid-19-hits-olympics-what-could-2020-tokyo-games-postponement-cost-japan-288403">COVID-19 hits Olympics: What could 2020 Tokyo Games postponement cost Japan?</a>

As the magnitude of the decision settles down, new questions are bound to emerge. Will the existing qualification criteria for the games remain in place?

Qualification for the games began in 2018 in some sports and more than 58% of the field had already qualified. Is it fair for those athletes to hold on to those spots for 3 years?

Is the IOC willing to risk the 2021 Games clashing with marquee sporting events such as the tennis grand slams, the golf majors and even major footballing events?

Will the top professional sporting stars of golf, football and tennis turn up for the games?

Can legends like Roger Federer, Alysson Felix, Shelly Ann Fraser Pryce, MC Mary Kom and others extend their careers by a year?

"As someone who had experienced the boycott of the Moscow Olympics, even if it the unexpected happens don't crumble, don't give up, motivate yourself once more, stay young at heart. I hope they will take on the challenge next year," Yasuhiro Yamashita, Japan Olympics Committee president had urged the athletes.

The Olympics are the stage where legends are forged and sporting immortality is achieved. When the Games are held next year, the world will have new Olympic champions.

But they will also be remembered as a celebration of humanity, a coming together of the world after a period of immense tragedy.

Relief and finally a sense of closure as athletes around the world are no longer going to have to risk the health and safety of their families to pursue their Olympic dreams.

Relief and finally a sense of closure as athletes around the world are no longer going to have to risk the health and safety of their families to pursue their Olympic dreams. The postponement of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics to an unspecified date next year had been widely expected, in the end, both japan and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) had to bow down to unprecedented rebellion from the sporting community. “We felt under pressure to train, we felt under pressure to compete because obviously the Olympics is a few months away and we need to obviously kind of train ourselves and not de-train and some athletes would go into those facilities and put other people at risk,” Adam peaty, 2016 Olympic champion, swimming, said. "It's a bummer, it's a bummer that I won't be able to compete in the Olympics this year, but you have to understand the situation, understand that some things are a little bigger than sport, and I guess we'll have it next year,” Pole Vault world record holder, Mondo Duplantis said. ALSO READ: Postponed Tokyo Olympics will need 'sacrifices and compromises' from all stakeholders: IOC president Thomas Bach The global sporting calendar has been virtually decimated by the coronavirus pandemic since the start of February. A decision to postpone the Olympic games is never easy, Tokyo will go down in history as the first games to have been postponed in peacetime… There are millions of hotel rooms and thousands of flights that have been booked by athletes, officials, sponsors and fans and the media... Japan has spent more than 12.5 billion dollars on the games till now and it is bound to rise exponentially now. There are thousands of critical games staff who have been employed in Tokyo and face an uncertain future. Pushing back the games was easy, what follows afterwards is a logistical nightmare The Olympic flame, which arrived in Japan a couple of days ago, will stay in Japan until the games will finally begin. And we also agreed that the name will be kept as 'Olympic Games Tokyo 2020', again to show our commitment and the highly symbolic meaning of these Olympic Games who then hopefully can and will be, in the end, a celebration of humankind having overcome this unprecedented challenge of the coronavirus," IOC president Thomas Cach had said. ALSO READ: COVID-19 hits Olympics: What could 2020 Tokyo Games postponement cost Japan? As the magnitude of the decision settles down, new questions are bound to emerge. Will the existing qualification criteria for the games remain in place? Qualification for the games began in 2018 in some sports and more than 58% of the field had already qualified. Is it fair for those athletes to hold on to those spots for 3 years? Is the IOC willing to risk the 2021 Games clashing with marquee sporting events such as the tennis grand slams, the golf majors and even major footballing events? Will the top professional sporting stars of golf, football and tennis turn up for the games? Can legends like Roger Federer, Alysson Felix, Shelly Ann Fraser Pryce, MC Mary Kom and others extend their careers by a year? "As someone who had experienced the boycott of the Moscow Olympics, even if it the unexpected happens don't crumble, don't give up, motivate yourself once more, stay young at heart. I hope they will take on the challenge next year," Yasuhiro Yamashita, Japan Olympics Committee president had urged the athletes. The Olympics are the stage where legends are forged and sporting immortality is achieved. When the Games are held next year, the world will have new Olympic champions. But they will also be remembered as a celebration of humanity, a coming together of the world after a period of immense tragedy.

Olympics postponed to 2021 but what next?

With the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and Japan mutually agreeing to postpone the 2020 Tokyo Olympics by a year amid the COVID-19 pandemic, IOC president Thomas Bach on Wednesday said that the postponed Games would require ‘compromises and sacrifices’ from all stakeholders involved in the Tokyo Olympics 2020.&nbsp;

Bach, a day after the IOC decided to delay the 2020 Games, said that the postponed Games will need sacrifices and compromises from all stakeholders to make the Olympic dreams of athletes come true.&nbsp;

"These postponed Olympic Games will need sacrifices, will need compromises from all stakeholders," Bach told reporters in a conference call on Wednesday after the 2020 Tokyo Olympics were postponed because of the novel coronavirus pandemic.

Speaking of IOC’s role in the postponement of the 2020 Games, Bach said it was "to make the Olympic dreams of athletes come true"

ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/covid-19-hits-olympics-what-could-2020-tokyo-games-postponement-cost-japan-288403">COVID-19 hits Olympics: What could 2020 Tokyo Games postponement cost Japan?</a>

However, Bach admitted that the cancellation of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics was "discussed and considered" while adding, "it was very clear from the beginning that cancellation was not something the IOC would in any way favour."

<h2>"First priority should be the quality of the decision"</h2>

On rescheduling and the dates of the Tokyo Olympics, which will now be held in 2021, Bach said: “We have to see with them what the options are.”&nbsp;

“After having consulted with them we also have to take into account the sporting calendar around the Olympic Games and many many other issues.

“We should come to a solution as soon as possible, but first priority should be the quality of the decision, to really be able to take the input of all stakeholders into account,” Bach added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sports-minister-kiren-rijiju-welcomes-iocs-decision-to-postpone-tokyo-olympics-288416">Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju welcomes IOC's decision to postpone Tokyo Olympics</a>

Bach further confirmed that a task force names – Here We Go – has been set-up which will work to schedule new dates for the Olympics and Paralympics in 2021 and a solution will be found soon.

It is the first time that the Olympics have been postponed after the 1940 Summer Olympics in Helsinki and 1944 Summer Olympics in London were cancelled due to the World War II.

With the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and Japan mutually agreeing to postpone the 2020 Tokyo Olympics by a year amid the COVID-19 pandemic, IOC president Thomas Bach on Wednesday said that the postponed Games would require ‘compromises and sacrifices’ from all stakeholders involved in the Tokyo Olympics 2020.

With the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and Japan mutually agreeing to postpone the 2020 Tokyo Olympics by a year amid the COVID-19 pandemic, IOC president Thomas Bach on Wednesday said that the postponed Games would require ‘compromises and sacrifices’ from all stakeholders involved in the Tokyo Olympics 2020. Bach, a day after the IOC decided to delay the 2020 Games, said that the postponed Games will need sacrifices and compromises from all stakeholders to make the Olympic dreams of athletes come true. "These postponed Olympic Games will need sacrifices, will need compromises from all stakeholders," Bach told reporters in a conference call on Wednesday after the 2020 Tokyo Olympics were postponed because of the novel coronavirus pandemic. Speaking of IOC’s role in the postponement of the 2020 Games, Bach said it was "to make the Olympic dreams of athletes come true" ALSO READ: COVID-19 hits Olympics: What could 2020 Tokyo Games postponement cost Japan? However, Bach admitted that the cancellation of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics was "discussed and considered" while adding, "it was very clear from the beginning that cancellation was not something the IOC would in any way favour." "First priority should be the quality of the decision" On rescheduling and the dates of the Tokyo Olympics, which will now be held in 2021, Bach said: “We have to see with them what the options are.” “After having consulted with them we also have to take into account the sporting calendar around the Olympic Games and many many other issues. “We should come to a solution as soon as possible, but first priority should be the quality of the decision, to really be able to take the input of all stakeholders into account,” Bach added. ALSO READ: Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju welcomes IOC's decision to postpone Tokyo Olympics Bach further confirmed that a task force names – Here We Go – has been set-up which will work to schedule new dates for the Olympics and Paralympics in 2021 and a solution will be found soon. It is the first time that the Olympics have been postponed after the 1940 Summer Olympics in Helsinki and 1944 Summer Olympics in London were cancelled due to the World War II.

Postponed Tokyo Olympics will need 'sacrifices and compromises' from all stakeholders: IOC president Thomas Bach

After the 2020 Tokyo Olympics was postponed by a year, all eyes have shifted to the much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020. The onus lies on the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to deal with the situation surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic and take a final call on the cash-rich tournament which was earlier scheduled to start from March 29 but was suspended until April 15 due to the novel coronavirus outbreak.&nbsp;

However, the IPL franchises and stakeholders aren’t even discussing the IPL 2020 amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We are not even discussing IPL right now. It will be premature to say anything but hosting the IPL this year looks a bit difficult,” a top franchise official told a leading daily.

While the BCCI president Sourav Ganguly looked pessimistic about conducting IPL 2020 later in the year due to the FTP being in place. A Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) official has now said that all IPL related work was stopped in mid-march as the employees were forced to go on a work-from-home routine due to the COVID-19 outbreak in the country.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-president-sourav-ganguly-opens-up-on-fate-of-ipl-2020-says-cant-say-anything-at-the-moment-288269">BCCI president Sourav Ganguly opens up on fate of IPL 2020, says 'can't say anything at the moment'</a>

“All IPL related work was stopped in mid-March. Only the construction of VIP boxes was underway when this coronavirus pandemic forced us to go on a work-from-home. We were already told not to hold IPL-related work till April 15,” said a Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) official privy to the development.

Deputy Chief Minister of Delhi, Manish Sisodia was the first to announce a ban on IPL and that meant all IPL-related work at the Arun Jaitley Stadium – home ground of Delhi Capitals – including pitch preparation was halted mid-way.&nbsp;

<h2>"IMGR looked less hopeful of the IPL taking place this year"</h2>

“The IMGR (Delhi Capitals) guys came here last week and they were told about the developments. Even they looked less hopeful of the IPL taking place this year. Generally, it takes about two weeks for the pitch and construction work to complete before every IPL that means till the end of April it is highly unlikely,” the official added.

ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/covid-19-hits-olympics-what-could-2020-tokyo-games-postponement-cost-japan-288403">COVID-19 hits Olympics: What could 2020 Tokyo Games postponement cost Japan?</a>

Earlier, Ganguly had said that he doesn’t have an answer to whether IPL 2020 will take place at all while citing the Future Tours Programme (FTP).&nbsp;

“Nothing has changed in the last 10 days. So, I don’t have an answer to it. You can’t plan anything. The FTP is scheduled. It’s there and you can’t change the FTP. All around the world, cricket and more so sports has stopped,” Ganguly had told PTI.

However, with all major tournaments and sporting events getting cancelled or postponed, the pressure is mounting on the BCCI to take a final call on the future of IPL 2020. 
&nbsp;

After the 2020 Tokyo Olympics was postponed by a year, all eyes have shifted to the much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020. The onus lies on the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to deal with the situation surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic and take a final call on the cash-rich tournament which was earlier scheduled to start from March 29 but was suspended until April 15 due to the novel coronavirus outbreak.

After the 2020 Tokyo Olympics was postponed by a year, all eyes have shifted to the much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020. The onus lies on the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to deal with the situation surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic and take a final call on the cash-rich tournament which was earlier scheduled to start from March 29 but was suspended until April 15 due to the novel coronavirus outbreak. However, the IPL franchises and stakeholders aren’t even discussing the IPL 2020 amid the COVID-19 pandemic. “We are not even discussing IPL right now. It will be premature to say anything but hosting the IPL this year looks a bit difficult,” a top franchise official told a leading daily. While the BCCI president Sourav Ganguly looked pessimistic about conducting IPL 2020 later in the year due to the FTP being in place. A Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) official has now said that all IPL related work was stopped in mid-march as the employees were forced to go on a work-from-home routine due to the COVID-19 outbreak in the country. ALSO READ: BCCI president Sourav Ganguly opens up on fate of IPL 2020, says 'can't say anything at the moment' “All IPL related work was stopped in mid-March. Only the construction of VIP boxes was underway when this coronavirus pandemic forced us to go on a work-from-home. We were already told not to hold IPL-related work till April 15,” said a Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) official privy to the development. Deputy Chief Minister of Delhi, Manish Sisodia was the first to announce a ban on IPL and that meant all IPL-related work at the Arun Jaitley Stadium – home ground of Delhi Capitals – including pitch preparation was halted mid-way. "IMGR looked less hopeful of the IPL taking place this year" “The IMGR (Delhi Capitals) guys came here last week and they were told about the developments. Even they looked less hopeful of the IPL taking place this year. Generally, it takes about two weeks for the pitch and construction work to complete before every IPL that means till the end of April it is highly unlikely,” the official added. ALSO READ: COVID-19 hits Olympics: What could 2020 Tokyo Games postponement cost Japan? Earlier, Ganguly had said that he doesn’t have an answer to whether IPL 2020 will take place at all while citing the Future Tours Programme (FTP). “Nothing has changed in the last 10 days. So, I don’t have an answer to it. You can’t plan anything. The FTP is scheduled. It’s there and you can’t change the FTP. All around the world, cricket and more so sports has stopped,” Ganguly had told PTI. However, with all major tournaments and sporting events getting cancelled or postponed, the pressure is mounting on the BCCI to take a final call on the future of IPL 2020.

The fate of IPL 2020 hangs by thin thread with no preparations and talks

Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju has welcomed the postponement of this year's Olympic Games to 2021 in view of the worsening COVID-19 pandemic, saying the IOC's decision has ensured the well being of Tokyo-bound athletes.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) and Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Tuesday announced postponement of the Games, scheduled for July-August, because of the pandemic which has brought the world to a standstill.

"I welcome the decision of IOC to postpone #Tokyo2020 in view of the global pandemic. It's necessary for the well being of athletes from across the world," Rijiju said in a tweet late on Tuesday.

He also assured the Tokyo-bound Indian athletes of government's full support to ensure that their preparations are not impacted by the current situation. 
India was on Tuesday placed under a 21-day lockdown to contain the spread of the deadly virus, which has caused close to 19,000 deaths worldwide.

"I urge our athletes not to lose heart. We'll create better opportunities so that we can have India's best medal tally in 2021." 
The COVID-19 pandemic has affected nearly 4 lakh people globally. In India, more than 500 positive cases have been detected so far and the death toll has touched 10.

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My dear Athletes, 
As per the directions of the Govt, all sports training camps and centres will remain closed during 21-day lockdown. Pls maintain your physical and mental fitness at the place wherever you are staying without going out. <a href="https://t.co/WGMDFJfFIu">https://t.co/WGMDFJfFIu</a>
— Kiren Rijiju (@KirenRijiju) <a href="https://twitter.com/KirenRijiju/status/1242515687727198208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Earlier, the Indian Olympic Association had also welcomed the IOC's decision, saying it has relieved the country's athletes of a stressful build-up during a global health crisis.

The pandemic has forced the cancellation or postponement of almost all sporting events across the world, including the Olympic qualifiers and the much-anticipated European football championships.

Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju has welcomed the postponement of this year's Olympic Games to 2021 in view of the worsening COVID-19 pandemic, saying the IOC's decision has ensured the well being of Tokyo-bound athletes.

Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju has welcomed the postponement of this year's Olympic Games to 2021 in view of the worsening COVID-19 pandemic, saying the IOC's decision has ensured the well being of Tokyo-bound athletes. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) and Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Tuesday announced postponement of the Games, scheduled for July-August, because of the pandemic which has brought the world to a standstill. "I welcome the decision of IOC to postpone #Tokyo2020 in view of the global pandemic. It's necessary for the well being of athletes from across the world," Rijiju said in a tweet late on Tuesday. He also assured the Tokyo-bound Indian athletes of government's full support to ensure that their preparations are not impacted by the current situation. India was on Tuesday placed under a 21-day lockdown to contain the spread of the deadly virus, which has caused close to 19,000 deaths worldwide. "I urge our athletes not to lose heart. We'll create better opportunities so that we can have India's best medal tally in 2021." The COVID-19 pandemic has affected nearly 4 lakh people globally. In India, more than 500 positive cases have been detected so far and the death toll has touched 10. My dear Athletes, As per the directions of the Govt, all sports training camps and centres will remain closed during 21-day lockdown. Pls maintain your physical and mental fitness at the place wherever you are staying without going out. https://t.co/WGMDFJfFIu — Kiren Rijiju (@KirenRijiju) March 24, 2020 × Earlier, the Indian Olympic Association had also welcomed the IOC's decision, saying it has relieved the country's athletes of a stressful build-up during a global health crisis. The pandemic has forced the cancellation or postponement of almost all sporting events across the world, including the Olympic qualifiers and the much-anticipated European football championships.

Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju welcomes IOC's decision to postpone Tokyo Olympics

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