<p>A highly influential member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has confirmed that the 2020 Tokyo Olympics are set to be postponed by a year due to the COVID-19 pandemic with at least 341,000 people being tested positive worldwide.</p>

<p>Earlier on Sunday, the IOC had admitted that they were looking at possible scenarios including postponement and that a final decision would be taken by April 20. However, with Canada and Australia forcing IOC’s hand by categorically refusing to send teams to the Olympics if they were held on July as per schedule.</p>

<p>Furthermore, the British Olympics Committee too indicated that it would withdraw from the Games if the coronavirus pandemic did not die down.<br />
IOC member Richard Pound is the senior-most IOC member and was the first to raise doubts over the Games a month ago. Now, he has said that the IOC has decided to postponed the quadrennial event to July 2021 and that was the only feasible option left with the global sporting calendar decimated. Pound admits the ramifications and logistical challenges of moving the Olympics will be huge.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/re-organising-olympics-a-herculean-task-former-ioc-marketing-head-288105">Re-organising Olympics a Herculean task: former IOC marketing head</a>\</strong></p>

<h2><strong>"We will postpone this"</strong></h2>

<p>“On the basis of the information, the IOC has, the postponement has been decided,” Pound said in a phone interview. “The parameters going forward have not been determined, but the Games are not going to start on July 24, that much I know,” Pound told a leading American daily. &nbsp;</p>

<p>“It will come in stages,” Pound said while adding, “we will postpone this and begin to deal with all the ramifications of moving this, which are immense.”</p>

<p>The IOC is dealing with the ramifications and logistical challenges of postponing Games for the first time since the Second World War and a formal announcement is expected in a few days.</p>

<p>Even the World Athletics president Lord Sebastian Coe had urged the IOC for a 12-month postponement of the Tokyo Games.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ioc-has-sought-update-on-health-and-preparations-of-olympic-bound-athletes-this-week-batra-288095">IOC has sought update on health and preparations of Olympic-bound athletes this week: Batra</a></strong></p>

<p>“No-one wants to see the Olympic Games postponed but as I have said publicly, we cannot hold the event at all costs, certainly not at the cost of athlete safety, and a decision on the Olympic Games must become very obvious very quickly. I believe that time has come and we owe it to our athletes to give them respite where we can," Coe said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, IOC’s final take, officially, still remains that it will talk to all stakeholders and announce a final decision by April 20. The Olympics have never been postponed since the end of the Second World War.</p>


A highly influential member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has confirmed that the 2020 Tokyo Olympics are set to be postponed by a year due to the COVID-19 pandemic with at least 341,000 people being tested positive worldwide.

A highly influential member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has confirmed that the 2020 Tokyo Olympics are set to be postponed by a year due to the COVID-19 pandemic with at least 341,000 people being tested positive worldwide. Earlier on Sunday, the IOC had admitted that they were looking at possible scenarios including postponement and that a final decision would be taken by April 20. However, with Canada and Australia forcing IOC’s hand by categorically refusing to send teams to the Olympics if they were held on July as per schedule. Furthermore, the British Olympics Committee too indicated that it would withdraw from the Games if the coronavirus pandemic did not die down. IOC member Richard Pound is the senior-most IOC member and was the first to raise doubts over the Games a month ago. Now, he has said that the IOC has decided to postponed the quadrennial event to July 2021 and that was the only feasible option left with the global sporting calendar decimated. Pound admits the ramifications and logistical challenges of moving the Olympics will be huge. ALSO READ: Re-organising Olympics a Herculean task: former IOC marketing head\ "We will postpone this" “On the basis of the information, the IOC has, the postponement has been decided,” Pound said in a phone interview. “The parameters going forward have not been determined, but the Games are not going to start on July 24, that much I know,” Pound told a leading American daily. “It will come in stages,” Pound said while adding, “we will postpone this and begin to deal with all the ramifications of moving this, which are immense.” The IOC is dealing with the ramifications and logistical challenges of postponing Games for the first time since the Second World War and a formal announcement is expected in a few days. Even the World Athletics president Lord Sebastian Coe had urged the IOC for a 12-month postponement of the Tokyo Games. ALSO READ: IOC has sought update on health and preparations of Olympic-bound athletes this week: Batra “No-one wants to see the Olympic Games postponed but as I have said publicly, we cannot hold the event at all costs, certainly not at the cost of athlete safety, and a decision on the Olympic Games must become very obvious very quickly. I believe that time has come and we owe it to our athletes to give them respite where we can," Coe said. However, IOC’s final take, officially, still remains that it will talk to all stakeholders and announce a final decision by April 20. The Olympics have never been postponed since the end of the Second World War.

Tokyo Olympics 2020 to be postponed by a year due to COVID-19 pandemic

<p>Star wrestler Bajrang Punia on Monday decided to donate his six months salary towards fight against COVID-19 pandemic and called for postponement of Tokyo Olympics, saying the mega event will lose sheen if it goes ahead in the absence of nations who have already pulled out.</p>

<p>The 25-year-old Bajrang is one of India's medal contenders at the Games, which are under doubt due to the coronavirus, which has claimed more than 15000 lives and infected more than 3,00,000 people worldwide.<br />
Bajrang, the 2019 World Championship bronze medallist, works with the Railways as an officer on special duty (OSD).</p>

<p>"I have decided to donate my six months salary," Bajrang tweeted and immediately earned praise from Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju, who said it was a laudable effort.</p>

<p>Talking to PTI, Bajrang said, "Before Olympics we have to fight Coronavirus. If situation does not improve, and continues for 2-3 months, it will be perfectly alright to postpone the Olympics."</p>

<p>"If it is held with Coronavirus continuing to wreak havoc, a lot of nations will not send their athletes. Already Canada and Australia have said they won't send their athletes. What's the point then.</p>

<p>"So it is not just India's problem, it's a global issue, which needs to be tackled first," he added.</p>

<p>Bajrang is training at an apartment in Sonepat while his coach Shako Bentinidis has left for Georgia. India's foreign coach for women wrestlers Andrew Cook has also left for the US a few days ago.</p>

<p>The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) says it will decide the country's participation in about four weeks' time. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) is under tremendous pressure to postpone the Games.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Vinesh Phogat, another Indian medal contender at the Games, says she has been training hard and it does not matter what she feels about the postponement of the Games.</p>

<p>"I am at my home and training has been good so far. Whatever I say, does not matter," she said.</p>


Star wrestler Bajrang Punia on Monday decided to donate his six months salary towards fight against COVID-19 pandemic and called for postponement of Tokyo Olympics, saying the mega event will lose sheen if it goes ahead in the absence of nations who have already pulled out.

Star wrestler Bajrang Punia on Monday decided to donate his six months salary towards fight against COVID-19 pandemic and called for postponement of Tokyo Olympics, saying the mega event will lose sheen if it goes ahead in the absence of nations who have already pulled out. The 25-year-old Bajrang is one of India's medal contenders at the Games, which are under doubt due to the coronavirus, which has claimed more than 15000 lives and infected more than 3,00,000 people worldwide. Bajrang, the 2019 World Championship bronze medallist, works with the Railways as an officer on special duty (OSD). "I have decided to donate my six months salary," Bajrang tweeted and immediately earned praise from Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju, who said it was a laudable effort. Talking to PTI, Bajrang said, "Before Olympics we have to fight Coronavirus. If situation does not improve, and continues for 2-3 months, it will be perfectly alright to postpone the Olympics." "If it is held with Coronavirus continuing to wreak havoc, a lot of nations will not send their athletes. Already Canada and Australia have said they won't send their athletes. What's the point then. "So it is not just India's problem, it's a global issue, which needs to be tackled first," he added. Bajrang is training at an apartment in Sonepat while his coach Shako Bentinidis has left for Georgia. India's foreign coach for women wrestlers Andrew Cook has also left for the US a few days ago. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) says it will decide the country's participation in about four weeks' time. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) is under tremendous pressure to postpone the Games. Meanwhile, Vinesh Phogat, another Indian medal contender at the Games, says she has been training hard and it does not matter what she feels about the postponement of the Games. "I am at my home and training has been good so far. Whatever I say, does not matter," she said.

Bajrang Punia to donate six months salary, calls for postponement of Tokyo Games

<p>FIFA president Gianni Infantino believes the global coronavirus crisis could bring about a reform of football which he does not expect to return to action by May.</p>

<p>"Without panic, let's face it, we will play when we can without endangering anyone's health," the head of world football said.</p>

<p>"Health first. Then everything else. And the rest, for managers, means hoping for the best but also preparing for the worst."</p>

<p>World football has been thrown into turmoil by the pandemic which has killed 15,000 and confined more than a billion people ot their homes.</p>

<p>The Euro 2020 and Copa America tournaments have already been pushed back while uncertainty remains over the inaugural 24-team Club World Cup from 2021.</p>

<p>"We need an assessment of the global economic impact," the 50-year-old Swiss told Monday's edition of Gazzetta Dello Sport.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We don't know when things will return to normal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"But let's look at the opportunities. We can perhaps reform world football by taking a step back. With different formats. Fewer tournaments, maybe fewer teams, but more balanced.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Fewer games to protect the health of the players.</p>

<p>"It's not science fiction, let's talk about it. Let's quantify the damage, see how to cover it, make sacrifices and let's start again.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Not from scratch. But let's all save football together from a crisis that risks being irreversible."</p>

<p>Infantino revealed he was working on temporary derogations on footballers' contracts to avoid the June 30 deadline.</p>

<p>"Now let's think about the national team calendar, and about temporary changes and dispensations for the regulations on the status of players and transfers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"To protect contracts and adapt registration periods. Tough measures are needed tough. But there is no choice. We will all have to make sacrifices."</p>

<p>Infantino, meanwhile, dismissed talk of a planned European Super League for the top clubs.</p>

<p>"It makes me laugh," he said. "And what else? From what I see, others are already planning and organising tournaments around the world, outside the institutional structures, and without respect for how domestic, continental and world football are organised.</p>

<p>"In the future we must have at least 50 national teams that can win the World Cup, not just eight European and two South American ones.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"And 50 clubs that can win the Club World Cup, not just five or six European ones. And twenty of these 50 will be Europeans, which seems to me better than today's five or six. But this is not the time to talk about it now.</p>


FIFA president Gianni Infantino believes the global coronavirus crisis could bring about a reform of football which he does not expect to return to action by May.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino believes the global coronavirus crisis could bring about a reform of football which he does not expect to return to action by May. "Without panic, let's face it, we will play when we can without endangering anyone's health," the head of world football said. "Health first. Then everything else. And the rest, for managers, means hoping for the best but also preparing for the worst." World football has been thrown into turmoil by the pandemic which has killed 15,000 and confined more than a billion people ot their homes. The Euro 2020 and Copa America tournaments have already been pushed back while uncertainty remains over the inaugural 24-team Club World Cup from 2021. "We need an assessment of the global economic impact," the 50-year-old Swiss told Monday's edition of Gazzetta Dello Sport. "We don't know when things will return to normal. "But let's look at the opportunities. We can perhaps reform world football by taking a step back. With different formats. Fewer tournaments, maybe fewer teams, but more balanced. "Fewer games to protect the health of the players. "It's not science fiction, let's talk about it. Let's quantify the damage, see how to cover it, make sacrifices and let's start again. "Not from scratch. But let's all save football together from a crisis that risks being irreversible." Infantino revealed he was working on temporary derogations on footballers' contracts to avoid the June 30 deadline. "Now let's think about the national team calendar, and about temporary changes and dispensations for the regulations on the status of players and transfers. "To protect contracts and adapt registration periods. Tough measures are needed tough. But there is no choice. We will all have to make sacrifices." Infantino, meanwhile, dismissed talk of a planned European Super League for the top clubs. "It makes me laugh," he said. "And what else? From what I see, others are already planning and organising tournaments around the world, outside the institutional structures, and without respect for how domestic, continental and world football are organised. "In the future we must have at least 50 national teams that can win the World Cup, not just eight European and two South American ones. "And 50 clubs that can win the Club World Cup, not just five or six European ones. And twenty of these 50 will be Europeans, which seems to me better than today's five or six. But this is not the time to talk about it now.

FIFA boss looking at soccer reform after coronavirus crisis

<p>The novel coronavirus pandemic has brought the entire world to a stand-still. With reports of positive COVID-19 cases increasing with each passing day, many nations are in a state of lockdown. The deadly COVID-19 has even left the entire sporting calendar shredded into pieces and many tournaments and leagues have been either cancelled or postponed.</p>

<p>While every sportsperson has taken health advisory into account by keeping themselves under self-isolation in a bid to curb the novel coronavirus, former South African batsman Herschelle Gibbs has picked one player who he would want to be quarantined with.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-doing-our-bit-for-the-society-irfan-and-yusuf-pathan-donate-face-masks-amid-covid-19-pandemic-288103">'Doing our bit for the society' - Irfan and Yusuf Pathan donate face masks amid COVID-19 pandemic</a></strong></p>

<p>Gibbs named Indian captain Virat Kohli when the official Twitter handle of International Cricket Council (ICC) posted an infographic asking people to pick their quarantine partner as per their birth month. Gibbs named Kohli while adding he would be going toe to toe in the gym with the Indian skipper.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">In quarantine , me and <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> going toe to toe in the gym <a href="https://t.co/FZ0mvB3OMp">https://t.co/FZ0mvB3OMp</a></p>
— Herschelle Gibbs (@hershybru) <a href="https://twitter.com/hershybru/status/1241602729618935808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Kohli has made a name for himself in the world of cricket not only for his sheer talent but his will to work hard off the field as well. The Indian skipper has been one of the biggest motivators in the world of sports when it comes to keeping fit.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-postponement-likely-to-get-extended-amid-covid-19-pandemic-report-288071">IPL 2020 postponement likely to get extended amid COVID-19 pandemic: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>Kohli has shared videos of him sweating it out in the gym uncountable times and his hunger to reach the pinnacle has only been rubbed off to other players, who in return have also upped the ante in terms of remaining fit.</p>

<p>While the sporting action has come to an unusual halt due to the coronavirus pandemic, Indian cricketers have continued to work hard in their respective homes in a bid to remain fit. Social distancing is something every athlete is maintaining to curb the spread of COVID-19 and as per the health ministry, everyone should avoid public gathering in this dire situation.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


The novel coronavirus pandemic has brought the entire world to a stand-still. With reports of positive COVID-19 cases increasing with each passing day, many nations are in a state of lockdown.

The novel coronavirus pandemic has brought the entire world to a stand-still. With reports of positive COVID-19 cases increasing with each passing day, many nations are in a state of lockdown. The deadly COVID-19 has even left the entire sporting calendar shredded into pieces and many tournaments and leagues have been either cancelled or postponed. While every sportsperson has taken health advisory into account by keeping themselves under self-isolation in a bid to curb the novel coronavirus, former South African batsman Herschelle Gibbs has picked one player who he would want to be quarantined with. ALSO READ: 'Doing our bit for the society' - Irfan and Yusuf Pathan donate face masks amid COVID-19 pandemic Gibbs named Indian captain Virat Kohli when the official Twitter handle of International Cricket Council (ICC) posted an infographic asking people to pick their quarantine partner as per their birth month. Gibbs named Kohli while adding he would be going toe to toe in the gym with the Indian skipper. In quarantine , me and @imVkohli going toe to toe in the gym https://t.co/FZ0mvB3OMp — Herschelle Gibbs (@hershybru) March 22, 2020 × Kohli has made a name for himself in the world of cricket not only for his sheer talent but his will to work hard off the field as well. The Indian skipper has been one of the biggest motivators in the world of sports when it comes to keeping fit. ALSO READ: IPL 2020 postponement likely to get extended amid COVID-19 pandemic: Report Kohli has shared videos of him sweating it out in the gym uncountable times and his hunger to reach the pinnacle has only been rubbed off to other players, who in return have also upped the ante in terms of remaining fit. While the sporting action has come to an unusual halt due to the coronavirus pandemic, Indian cricketers have continued to work hard in their respective homes in a bid to remain fit. Social distancing is something every athlete is maintaining to curb the spread of COVID-19 and as per the health ministry, everyone should avoid public gathering in this dire situation.

'Going toe to toe in the gym' - Herschelle Gibbs picks Virat Kohli as his quarantine partner

<p>Thomas Bach and the IOC should not be criticised for procrastination over the Tokyo Olympics as re-organising them is "mind-bogglingly complex", the movement's former head of marketing Michael Payne told AFP.</p>

<p>Payne, who in nearly two decades at the International Olympic Committee was widely credited with transforming its brand and finances through sponsorship, said Monday the IOC could have unilaterally cancelled the Games because of the coronavirus pandemic.</p>

<p>However, Payne believes that was never an option given Bach's experience as a sportsman of missing out on the 1980 Moscow Olympics due to the boycott by Western nations in response to the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan.</p>

<p>Payne said behind the scenes the IOC have been moving towards a postponement for a while.</p>

<p>"It is mind-bogglingly complex to make a sudden change after seven years of preparation for the biggest sporting event in the world," he told AFP in a phone interview.</p>

<p>"The IOC have been with increasing urgency looking to fall back on Plan B. The IOC remit allows them legally to cancel the Games unilaterally.</p>

<p>"Cancelling the Games though is not an option so to postpone the Games, you have to have your delivery partner (Japan) on board."</p>

<p>Payne said Japan would take its time to decide as until recently the local organisers had been enthusiastic about maintaining the Games in their scheduled slot.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The Japanese have been holding out in the hope it might still be possible to hold the Games in July," he said.</p>

<p>"The cost to the Japanese of postponing them is loss of face and political capital to (Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo) Abe as this is very much his project.</p>

<p>"In the last few days Japan have been very up for them to go ahead but the problem is the rest of the world cannot get there."</p>


Thomas Bach and the IOC should not be criticised for procrastination over the Tokyo Olympics as re-organising them is "mind-bogglingly complex", the movement's former head of marketing Michael Payne told AFP.

Thomas Bach and the IOC should not be criticised for procrastination over the Tokyo Olympics as re-organising them is "mind-bogglingly complex", the movement's former head of marketing Michael Payne told AFP. Payne, who in nearly two decades at the International Olympic Committee was widely credited with transforming its brand and finances through sponsorship, said Monday the IOC could have unilaterally cancelled the Games because of the coronavirus pandemic. However, Payne believes that was never an option given Bach's experience as a sportsman of missing out on the 1980 Moscow Olympics due to the boycott by Western nations in response to the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. Payne said behind the scenes the IOC have been moving towards a postponement for a while. "It is mind-bogglingly complex to make a sudden change after seven years of preparation for the biggest sporting event in the world," he told AFP in a phone interview. "The IOC have been with increasing urgency looking to fall back on Plan B. The IOC remit allows them legally to cancel the Games unilaterally. "Cancelling the Games though is not an option so to postpone the Games, you have to have your delivery partner (Japan) on board." Payne said Japan would take its time to decide as until recently the local organisers had been enthusiastic about maintaining the Games in their scheduled slot. "The Japanese have been holding out in the hope it might still be possible to hold the Games in July," he said. "The cost to the Japanese of postponing them is loss of face and political capital to (Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo) Abe as this is very much his project. "In the last few days Japan have been very up for them to go ahead but the problem is the rest of the world cannot get there."

Re-organising Olympics a Herculean task: former IOC marketing head

<p class="MsoNormal">Former India cricketer Irfan Pathan and his brother Yusuf Pathan have donated as many as 4,000 masks to the needy amid the coronavirus pandemic which has left the entire world in a stand-still. While the positive cases of COVID-19 crossed the 430-mark on Monday, the Pathan brothers decided to take a humanitarian step and donate the much-needed masks to the needy in this dire situation.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Pathan, who played 29 Test and 120 ODIs for India, took to social media platform Twitter to post a video of them explaining what they are planning to do in terms of helping the society with the novel coronavirus spreading like a wildfire.&nbsp;</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-postponement-likely-to-get-extended-amid-covid-19-pandemic-report-288071">IPL 2020 postponement likely to get extended amid COVID-19 pandemic: Report</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"Doing our bit for the society. Whatever u guys can do please go ahead and help each other as far as sanitation is concerned. But don't gather crowd!@iamyusufpathan #corona it's a small start hopefully we will be keep helping more. Everyone of us?" Irfan tweeted on Monday.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Doing our bit for the society. Whatever u guys can do please go ahead and help each other as far as sanitation is concerned.But don’t gather crowd! <a href="https://twitter.com/iamyusufpathan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@iamyusufpathan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/corona?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#corona</a> it’s a small start hopefully we will be keep helping more. Everyone of us... <a href="https://t.co/7oG7Sx4wfF">pic.twitter.com/7oG7Sx4wfF</a></p>
— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) <a href="https://twitter.com/IrfanPathan/status/1242037521183195137?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>In the video, Irfan explained that the masks have been brought in the name of Mehmood Khan Pathan Charitable Trust – run by his father – while adding that all the masks will be handed over to Vadodara health department in this time of need. He further said that the masks will be distributed to the needy.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-bala-devi-extends-stay-in-scotland-amid-coronavirus-pandemic-says-rangers-fc-taking-full-care-288059">EXCLUSIVE: Bala Devi extends stay in Scotland amid coronavirus pandemic, says 'Rangers FC taking full care'</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">As per the Union health ministry, the number of positive coronavirus cases, in India, have crossed 430 with global death toll crossing the 15,000-mark with close to 3,50,000 confirmed cases.&nbsp;</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Meanwhile, the sporting calendar has been completely shattered by the global pandemic with every sporting league, across sports, getting cancelled or postponed. There are dark clouds hovering around the 2020 Tokyo Olympics as well with Canada on Monday becoming the first nation to pull out its name from the quadrennial event.<br />
<o:p></o:p></p>


Former India cricketer Irfan Pathan and his brother Yusuf Pathan have donated as many as 4,000 masks to the needy amid the coronavirus pandemic which has left the entire world in a stand-still.

Former India cricketer Irfan Pathan and his brother Yusuf Pathan have donated as many as 4,000 masks to the needy amid the coronavirus pandemic which has left the entire world in a stand-still. While the positive cases of COVID-19 crossed the 430-mark on Monday, the Pathan brothers decided to take a humanitarian step and donate the much-needed masks to the needy in this dire situation. Pathan, who played 29 Test and 120 ODIs for India, took to social media platform Twitter to post a video of them explaining what they are planning to do in terms of helping the society with the novel coronavirus spreading like a wildfire. ALSO READ: IPL 2020 postponement likely to get extended amid COVID-19 pandemic: Report "Doing our bit for the society. Whatever u guys can do please go ahead and help each other as far as sanitation is concerned. But don't gather crowd!@iamyusufpathan #corona it's a small start hopefully we will be keep helping more. Everyone of us?" Irfan tweeted on Monday. Doing our bit for the society. Whatever u guys can do please go ahead and help each other as far as sanitation is concerned.But don’t gather crowd! @iamyusufpathan #corona it’s a small start hopefully we will be keep helping more. Everyone of us... pic.twitter.com/7oG7Sx4wfF — Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) March 23, 2020 × In the video, Irfan explained that the masks have been brought in the name of Mehmood Khan Pathan Charitable Trust – run by his father – while adding that all the masks will be handed over to Vadodara health department in this time of need. He further said that the masks will be distributed to the needy. ALSO READ: EXCLUSIVE: Bala Devi extends stay in Scotland amid coronavirus pandemic, says 'Rangers FC taking full care' As per the Union health ministry, the number of positive coronavirus cases, in India, have crossed 430 with global death toll crossing the 15,000-mark with close to 3,50,000 confirmed cases. Meanwhile, the sporting calendar has been completely shattered by the global pandemic with every sporting league, across sports, getting cancelled or postponed. There are dark clouds hovering around the 2020 Tokyo Olympics as well with Canada on Monday becoming the first nation to pull out its name from the quadrennial event.

WATCH: 'Doing our bit for the society' - Irfan and Yusuf Pathan donate face masks amid COVID-19 pandemic

<p>Indian Olympic Association President Narinder Batra on Monday said the IOC has asked all members to furnish updates on health and preparations of their Olympic-bound athletes this week as it deliberates on the fate of the Tokyo Games amid the COVID-19 pandemic.</p>

<p>The International Olympic Committee (IOC), under pressure to postpone the Games, has asked National Olympic Committees (NOCs) to detail the impact of the coronavirus crisis on athletes' preparation. The IOC on Monday said it will consider all options, barring cancellation, in the next four weeks.</p>

<p>"I am personally in touch on regular and continuous basis with Sports Ministry, Sports Authority of India, IOC, NSFs, with athletes through the NSFs and all stake holders regarding the 2020 Olympics and preparations for Olympics," Batra said.</p>

<p>"All NOCs have to get back to IOC this week on their preparations and the health of athletes in their respective countries," he added.<br />
He said international federations had a video call with the IOC President Thomas Bach on March 17 and with all 206 NOCs on March 19 to discuss the impact of COVID-19.</p>

<p>In a questionnaire titled "COVID-19 and preparation for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games", the IOC has asked the Olympic committees of its member countries "how do the emergency regulations relating to COVID-19 limit the training and preparation of your athletes?"\\</p>

<p>Batra, also an IOC member and president of the International Hockey Federation, said the health and safety of athletes was the prime concern of the IOA and of the Sports Ministry and there will be no compromise in that regard.</p>

<p>"As of now, hockey men and women, track and field athletes and weightlifters are in their training camps while other (Olympic) probable athletes are mostly back home."</p>

<p>More than 70 Indian athletes have qualified for the Olympics.</p>

<p>On Monday, Canada and Australia said they will pull out of the showpiece if is held this year and demanded that the event be shifted to 2021.<br />
World athletics boss Sebastian Coe also urged the IOC to announce postponement, citing the pandemic which has claimed more than 14,000 lives across the globe.</p>


Indian Olympic Association President Narinder Batra on Monday said the IOC has asked all members to furnish updates on health and preparations of their Olympic-bound athletes this week as it deliberates on the fate of the Tokyo Games amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Indian Olympic Association President Narinder Batra on Monday said the IOC has asked all members to furnish updates on health and preparations of their Olympic-bound athletes this week as it deliberates on the fate of the Tokyo Games amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The International Olympic Committee (IOC), under pressure to postpone the Games, has asked National Olympic Committees (NOCs) to detail the impact of the coronavirus crisis on athletes' preparation. The IOC on Monday said it will consider all options, barring cancellation, in the next four weeks. "I am personally in touch on regular and continuous basis with Sports Ministry, Sports Authority of India, IOC, NSFs, with athletes through the NSFs and all stake holders regarding the 2020 Olympics and preparations for Olympics," Batra said. "All NOCs have to get back to IOC this week on their preparations and the health of athletes in their respective countries," he added. He said international federations had a video call with the IOC President Thomas Bach on March 17 and with all 206 NOCs on March 19 to discuss the impact of COVID-19. In a questionnaire titled "COVID-19 and preparation for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games", the IOC has asked the Olympic committees of its member countries "how do the emergency regulations relating to COVID-19 limit the training and preparation of your athletes?"\\ Batra, also an IOC member and president of the International Hockey Federation, said the health and safety of athletes was the prime concern of the IOA and of the Sports Ministry and there will be no compromise in that regard. "As of now, hockey men and women, track and field athletes and weightlifters are in their training camps while other (Olympic) probable athletes are mostly back home." More than 70 Indian athletes have qualified for the Olympics. On Monday, Canada and Australia said they will pull out of the showpiece if is held this year and demanded that the event be shifted to 2021. World athletics boss Sebastian Coe also urged the IOC to announce postponement, citing the pandemic which has claimed more than 14,000 lives across the globe.

IOC has sought update on health and preparations of Olympic-bound athletes this week: Batra

<p>Star Indian footballer Ngangom Bala Devi, who became the first Indian footballer to sign a contract with Scottish Women’s Premier League club, Rangers FC, has extended her stay in Scotland after the Centre decided to shut all international commercial flights in India for one week starting from March 22 till March 29 in a view of the novel coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The travel restrictions have forced Bala to extend her stay with Rangers Women FC in Glasgow despite the Scottish Women’s Premier League being postponed till April 30 owing to the COVID-19 outbreak.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While the 30-year-old forward doesn’t have any commitments on the field, her return to India has been halted after government’s decision to bar all international flights in a bid to tackle the deadly coronavirus which is continuing to spread like a wildfire.</p>

<p>In an exclusive interview with WION, Bala revealed how she is dealing with the pandemic all alone in Scotland, how her fitness regime has been affected and much more. Bala also shared a special message for all her fans and followers in this dire situation due to the COVID-19 outbreak.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>"I have support from Rangers FC and they are taking care of me"</strong></h2>

<p>“It is something unique of course since it is a new country and everyone else has gone home, I am currently alone here. The food prices are also soaring due to increased demand. However, I have support from the club and they are taking care of me. I am in contact with my family back home as well. That is very helpful during these times,” Bala told WION from Scotland.</p>

<p><img alt="Bala Devi" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4998eb82-00c6-491a-8d99-0ddc38057aea" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/bala2_0.jpg" /></p>

<h2><strong>"Due to the travel&nbsp;restrictions, I was unable to come back home"</strong></h2>

<p>Despite the club taking care of her and she being in constant touch with her family, Bala revealed that she wanted to return back to India when Rangers FC had asked initially but due to restrictions of international flights in India, she was unable to do so, which left her in the foreign land.</p>

<p>“When the club asked, I wanted to go back home. However due to the aviation regulations and restriction, I was unable to come back home,” Bala said.</p>

<p>Staying alone in a foreign land is never easy when the situation is as grave as it is right now due to the COVID-19 outbreak. Communication with the club and team-mates is the key for every athlete in such condition.&nbsp;Bala, who made her debut for Rangers FC immediately after being signed in a landmark deal, said that the communication with Rangers FC has been very transparent and the club is taking its decision as per the advisory by local authorities in Glasgow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It was very transparent. They had to make decisions as they received directions from the local authorities here,” Bala revealed.&nbsp;</p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B9_jP60lQo2/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">#Repost @indianfootball A special message for everyone during this difficult time. Keep it simple, follow the rules , stay home and stay safe. #indianfootball #staysafe #stayhome #covid_19 #BackTheBlue</a></p>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/baladevi_10/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Bala Devi</a> (@baladevi_10) on <time datetime="2020-03-21T10:54:36+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Mar 21, 2020 at 3:54am PDT</time></p>
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<h2><strong>"Trying to keep myself fit by doing my personal workouts at home"</strong></h2>

<p>Practice and training regimes are the most affected if any sportsperson is concerned. With all the training sessions being postponed, Bala is focusing on her personal workouts in a bid to remain fit.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="Bala Devi" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="46f2062d-5ec9-4012-ba0a-bcc1e562a820" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Bala_0.jpg" /></p>

<p>“Since the league is now postponed, the training is on hold. However, I am trying to keep myself fit by doing my personal workouts at home and simple fitness drills,” Bala said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Social distancing and self-isolation are key to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus, and Bala is taking every precaution to stay safe.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Yes. Currently, I am at home. &nbsp;Since all my teammates have left, in case of absolute emergency I step out to get essentials. However, I avoid stepping out if not necessary,” Bala said.</p>

<p>Bala has a special message for all her fans and followers as the entire world is trying to fight back against the COVID-19 pandemic. Bala has urged everyone to follow the advisory by the government and health ministry.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“All I want to say is, that these are difficult times. However, we can overcome them. Just follow what you are asked to do by the experts, stay home, stay clean, wash your hands. Practice these simple things on a regular basis and we will be able to get through this situation,” Bala said.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Star Indian footballer Ngangom Bala Devi, who became the first Indian footballer to sign a contract with Scottish Women’s Premier League club, Rangers FC, has extended her stay in Scotland after the Centre decided to shut all international commercial flights in India for one week starting from March 22 till March 29 in a view of the novel coronavirus pandemic.

Star Indian footballer Ngangom Bala Devi, who became the first Indian footballer to sign a contract with Scottish Women’s Premier League club, Rangers FC, has extended her stay in Scotland after the Centre decided to shut all international commercial flights in India for one week starting from March 22 till March 29 in a view of the novel coronavirus pandemic. The travel restrictions have forced Bala to extend her stay with Rangers Women FC in Glasgow despite the Scottish Women’s Premier League being postponed till April 30 owing to the COVID-19 outbreak. While the 30-year-old forward doesn’t have any commitments on the field, her return to India has been halted after government’s decision to bar all international flights in a bid to tackle the deadly coronavirus which is continuing to spread like a wildfire. In an exclusive interview with WION, Bala revealed how she is dealing with the pandemic all alone in Scotland, how her fitness regime has been affected and much more. Bala also shared a special message for all her fans and followers in this dire situation due to the COVID-19 outbreak. "I have support from Rangers FC and they are taking care of me" “It is something unique of course since it is a new country and everyone else has gone home, I am currently alone here. The food prices are also soaring due to increased demand. However, I have support from the club and they are taking care of me. I am in contact with my family back home as well. That is very helpful during these times,” Bala told WION from Scotland. "Due to the travel restrictions, I was unable to come back home" Despite the club taking care of her and she being in constant touch with her family, Bala revealed that she wanted to return back to India when Rangers FC had asked initially but due to restrictions of international flights in India, she was unable to do so, which left her in the foreign land. “When the club asked, I wanted to go back home. However due to the aviation regulations and restriction, I was unable to come back home,” Bala said. Staying alone in a foreign land is never easy when the situation is as grave as it is right now due to the COVID-19 outbreak. Communication with the club and team-mates is the key for every athlete in such condition. Bala, who made her debut for Rangers FC immediately after being signed in a landmark deal, said that the communication with Rangers FC has been very transparent and the club is taking its decision as per the advisory by local authorities in Glasgow. “It was very transparent. They had to make decisions as they received directions from the local authorities here,” Bala revealed. View this post on Instagram #Repost @indianfootball A special message for everyone during this difficult time. Keep it simple, follow the rules , stay home and stay safe. #indianfootball #staysafe #stayhome #covid_19 #BackTheBlue A post shared by Bala Devi (@baladevi_10) on Mar 21, 2020 at 3:54am PDT × "Trying to keep myself fit by doing my personal workouts at home" Practice and training regimes are the most affected if any sportsperson is concerned. With all the training sessions being postponed, Bala is focusing on her personal workouts in a bid to remain fit. “Since the league is now postponed, the training is on hold. However, I am trying to keep myself fit by doing my personal workouts at home and simple fitness drills,” Bala said. Social distancing and self-isolation are key to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus, and Bala is taking every precaution to stay safe. “Yes. Currently, I am at home. Since all my teammates have left, in case of absolute emergency I step out to get essentials. However, I avoid stepping out if not necessary,” Bala said. Bala has a special message for all her fans and followers as the entire world is trying to fight back against the COVID-19 pandemic. Bala has urged everyone to follow the advisory by the government and health ministry. “All I want to say is, that these are difficult times. However, we can overcome them. Just follow what you are asked to do by the experts, stay home, stay clean, wash your hands. Practice these simple things on a regular basis and we will be able to get through this situation,” Bala said.

EXCLUSIVE: Bala Devi extends stay in Scotland amid coronavirus pandemic, says 'Rangers FC taking full care'

<p>There has been a lot of talks surrounding the future of Indian Premier League (IPL) which was earlier scheduled to start from March 29 but got suspended until April 15 amid the coronavirus pandemic that has wrecked havoc not only in India but the entire world. The sporting calendar has already been destroyed with many major events and tournaments getting either postponed or completely cancelled.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With the novel coronavirus spreading like a wildfire and at least 137 positive cases being reported in India, including foreign nationals, the sporting calendar including the IPL 2020 has been shredded into pieces. While the Board of Control for Cricket (BCCI) being optimistic of conducting the cash-rich tournament after April 15, IPL franchises are ready for a scenario wherein foreign players will need to be quarantined for at least 14 days once they fly to India.</p>

<p>"Yes, the fresh advisory calls for 14-day quarantine for travel from some countries and if the stance remains the same post March 31, that shouldn't be an issue. If we get a clearance from the government and visas are issued, then quarantining the players shouldn't be a big deal. In such a scenario, we can fly them into the country in the first week of April and follow the process of 14-day quarantine,” an official of one of the franchises was quoted as saying by an agency.</p>

<p>"But first, the foreign players need to be given the visa and that is why we need to wait till March 31 to see what the government decides going forward," the official added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the franchise owners are in constant communication and even held a conference call on Monday where they evaluated the entire situation surrounding the coronavirus pandemic. However, there was no update provided as the situation has not improved with reported cases increasing with each passing day.</p>


There has been a lot of talks surrounding the future of Indian Premier League (IPL) which was earlier scheduled to start from March 29 but got suspended until April 15 amid the coronavirus pandemic that has wrecked havoc not only in India but the entire world.

There has been a lot of talks surrounding the future of Indian Premier League (IPL) which was earlier scheduled to start from March 29 but got suspended until April 15 amid the coronavirus pandemic that has wrecked havoc not only in India but the entire world. The sporting calendar has already been destroyed with many major events and tournaments getting either postponed or completely cancelled. With the novel coronavirus spreading like a wildfire and at least 137 positive cases being reported in India, including foreign nationals, the sporting calendar including the IPL 2020 has been shredded into pieces. While the Board of Control for Cricket (BCCI) being optimistic of conducting the cash-rich tournament after April 15, IPL franchises are ready for a scenario wherein foreign players will need to be quarantined for at least 14 days once they fly to India. "Yes, the fresh advisory calls for 14-day quarantine for travel from some countries and if the stance remains the same post March 31, that shouldn't be an issue. If we get a clearance from the government and visas are issued, then quarantining the players shouldn't be a big deal. In such a scenario, we can fly them into the country in the first week of April and follow the process of 14-day quarantine,” an official of one of the franchises was quoted as saying by an agency. "But first, the foreign players need to be given the visa and that is why we need to wait till March 31 to see what the government decides going forward," the official added. Meanwhile, the franchise owners are in constant communication and even held a conference call on Monday where they evaluated the entire situation surrounding the coronavirus pandemic. However, there was no update provided as the situation has not improved with reported cases increasing with each passing day.

Coronavirus effects cricket: IPL 2020 franchises up for quarantining foreign players if needed

<p>Like the entire sporting calendar, the Spanish football and their marquee football league La Liga has been left hanging by a thin thread as the novel COVID-19 continues to take the entire world in its dreaded wings. Keeping the current situation amid the coronavirus in mind, the Spanish football calendar has been postponed until further notice, La Liga and Spanish soccer federation (RFEF) said in a joint statement on Monday.</p>

<p>Earlier, the league matches of football in Spain was due to resume on April 3 after being suspended for two weeks due to the spread of the COVID-19 but with the situation deteriorating with each passing day, the football governing body has taken a definite step in a bid to curb the deadly virus.</p>

<p>A joint commission between La Liga and RFEF have agreed to postpone all professional football competitions in Spain until the Spanish government feel it could be resumed “without creating any health risk”.</p>

<p>Both the RFEF and LaLiga wish to express our greatest public gratitude to all those who are dedicating their best efforts to provide essential services to the Spanish people,” the statement said.</p>

<p>“We also share our condolences for all the deceased and a warm embrace from the world of soccer to the many families that are losing loved ones,” it added.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Official statement.<br />
<br />
Spanish football competitions postponed until further notice as agreed by RFEF-LaLiga.</p>
— LaLiga English (@LaLigaEN) <a href="https://twitter.com/LaLigaEN/status/1242044398562574338?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The situation in Spain is grave with more than 33,000 people being affected by the COVID-19 – the second-worst affected country in Europe, only behind Italy. Moreover, over 2,180 deaths have been recorded from the virus, according to the country’s health ministry.</p>

<p>Earlier, UEFA had shifted Euro 2020 to 2021 given the current scenario relating to COVID-19. While the numbers continue to stack up, people have been advised to stay at their home and maintain social distancing as much as possible.</p>


Like the entire sporting calendar, the Spanish football and their marquee football league La Liga has been left hanging by a thin thread as the novel COVID-19 continues to take the entire world in its dreaded wings.

Like the entire sporting calendar, the Spanish football and their marquee football league La Liga has been left hanging by a thin thread as the novel COVID-19 continues to take the entire world in its dreaded wings. Keeping the current situation amid the coronavirus in mind, the Spanish football calendar has been postponed until further notice, La Liga and Spanish soccer federation (RFEF) said in a joint statement on Monday. Earlier, the league matches of football in Spain was due to resume on April 3 after being suspended for two weeks due to the spread of the COVID-19 but with the situation deteriorating with each passing day, the football governing body has taken a definite step in a bid to curb the deadly virus. A joint commission between La Liga and RFEF have agreed to postpone all professional football competitions in Spain until the Spanish government feel it could be resumed “without creating any health risk”. Both the RFEF and LaLiga wish to express our greatest public gratitude to all those who are dedicating their best efforts to provide essential services to the Spanish people,” the statement said. “We also share our condolences for all the deceased and a warm embrace from the world of soccer to the many families that are losing loved ones,” it added. Official statement. Spanish football competitions postponed until further notice as agreed by RFEF-LaLiga. — LaLiga English (@LaLigaEN) March 23, 2020 × The situation in Spain is grave with more than 33,000 people being affected by the COVID-19 – the second-worst affected country in Europe, only behind Italy. Moreover, over 2,180 deaths have been recorded from the virus, according to the country’s health ministry. Earlier, UEFA had shifted Euro 2020 to 2021 given the current scenario relating to COVID-19. While the numbers continue to stack up, people have been advised to stay at their home and maintain social distancing as much as possible.

La Liga, Spanish football competitions postponed indefinitely as COVID-19 crisis worsens

<p>World Athletics chief Sebastian Coe has called for the Tokyo Olympics to be postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic.</p>

<p>In a letter to International Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach, written before Sunday's IOC meeting, Coe said holding the Games in July 2020 was "neither feasible nor desirable" because of the global crisis.</p>

<p>"Whilst we all know that different parts of the world are at different stages of the virus, the unanimous view across all our areas is that an Olympic Games in July this year is neither feasible nor desirable," Coe said in his letter.</p>

<p>Canada has already pulled out of the Games and Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe admitted a delay may be "inevitable".</p>


World Athletics chief Sebastian Coe has called for the Tokyo Olympics to be postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic. In a letter to International Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach, written before Sunday's IOC meeting, Coe said holding the Games in July 2020 was "neither feasible nor desirable" because of the global crisis.

World Athletics chief Sebastian Coe has called for the Tokyo Olympics to be postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic. In a letter to International Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach, written before Sunday's IOC meeting, Coe said holding the Games in July 2020 was "neither feasible nor desirable" because of the global crisis. "Whilst we all know that different parts of the world are at different stages of the virus, the unanimous view across all our areas is that an Olympic Games in July this year is neither feasible nor desirable," Coe said in his letter. Canada has already pulled out of the Games and Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe admitted a delay may be "inevitable".

World Athletics chief Coe calls for Olympics postponement

<p class="MsoNormal">There has been a lot said about the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 which was scheduled to be held from March 29 before getting suspended until April 25 amid the coronavirus pandemic. While the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) was initially optimistic about going ahead with a truncated edition of the cash-rich tournament, the rise in numbers of positive cases in India and all over the world has deepened the crisis as far as IPL 2020 is concerned.&nbsp;</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">As per latest reports, the 13th edition of IPL may be delayed further if the situation surrounding the COVID-19 continues to deteriorate. Furthermore, the BCCI is also considering conducting a curtailed season of IPL at the end of 2020. A final call regarding IPL 2020 is expected to be taken by the end of this month with complete cancellation of the tournament set to be discussed.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-bala-devi-stuck-in-scotland-amid-coronavirus-pandemic-says-it-is-difficult-but-rangers-fc-taking-full-care-288059">EXCLUSIVE: Bala Devi stuck in Scotland amid coronavirus pandemic</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Not only IPL but the novel coronavirus pandemic has left the entire sporting calendar in tatters with every major leagues and tournaments, across sports, getting either cancelled or postponed. There are heated discussions going around the 2020 Tokyo Olympics with Canada becoming the first nation to pull out from the quadrennial event.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Earlier, it was reported that the fate of IPL 2020 will be decided on March 24 with the BCCI and franchises set to indulge in discussions via video-conferencing.&nbsp;</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/south-africa-cricket-team-stayed-in-same-lucknow-hotel-as-kanika-kapoor-report-288029">South Africa cricket team stayed in same Lucknow hotel as Kanika Kapoor: Report</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"BCCI and IPL franchise to have a conference call on coming Tuesday to discuss the process and further way of IPL 2020. BCCI office has closed so no meeting can be held there similarly no meeting can be held in the hotel so they have opted conference call," a BCCI source had told ANI.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Moreover, with the Indian government shutting international and domestic flights on an immediate basis, the likelihood of IPL 2020 getting started seems bleak. But it would be interesting to see what final decision the BCCI takes considering the grave situation surrounding the novel coronavirus.<br />
<o:p></o:p></p>


There has been a lot said about the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 which was scheduled to be held from March 29 before getting suspended until April 25 amid the coronavirus pandemic.

There has been a lot said about the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 which was scheduled to be held from March 29 before getting suspended until April 25 amid the coronavirus pandemic. While the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) was initially optimistic about going ahead with a truncated edition of the cash-rich tournament, the rise in numbers of positive cases in India and all over the world has deepened the crisis as far as IPL 2020 is concerned. As per latest reports, the 13th edition of IPL may be delayed further if the situation surrounding the COVID-19 continues to deteriorate. Furthermore, the BCCI is also considering conducting a curtailed season of IPL at the end of 2020. A final call regarding IPL 2020 is expected to be taken by the end of this month with complete cancellation of the tournament set to be discussed. ALSO READ: EXCLUSIVE: Bala Devi stuck in Scotland amid coronavirus pandemic Not only IPL but the novel coronavirus pandemic has left the entire sporting calendar in tatters with every major leagues and tournaments, across sports, getting either cancelled or postponed. There are heated discussions going around the 2020 Tokyo Olympics with Canada becoming the first nation to pull out from the quadrennial event. Earlier, it was reported that the fate of IPL 2020 will be decided on March 24 with the BCCI and franchises set to indulge in discussions via video-conferencing. ALSO READ: South Africa cricket team stayed in same Lucknow hotel as Kanika Kapoor: Report "BCCI and IPL franchise to have a conference call on coming Tuesday to discuss the process and further way of IPL 2020. BCCI office has closed so no meeting can be held there similarly no meeting can be held in the hotel so they have opted conference call," a BCCI source had told ANI. Moreover, with the Indian government shutting international and domestic flights on an immediate basis, the likelihood of IPL 2020 getting started seems bleak. But it would be interesting to see what final decision the BCCI takes considering the grave situation surrounding the novel coronavirus.

IPL 2020 postponement likely to get extended amid COVID-19 pandemic: Report

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