The novel coronavirus continues to spread like a wildfire with the entire world coming under its dreaded wings. In India, the number of positive cases has crossed 350-mark with at least seven deaths confirmed as of Monday afternoon. Bollywood singer Kanika Kapoor, who was tested positive for COVID-19, stayed in the same five-star hotel as the South African cricket team, who were in India for a three-match ODI series against the Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue. The series was ultimately postponed due to the novel coronavirus pandemic. <o:p></o:p>

Kapoor was tested positive for COVID-19 on Friday after returning from London and had attended a party at the Taj Hotel in Lucknow – where the South Africa cricket team were staying ahead of the second ODI which was scheduled to be played at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow on March 15 before the series was called off.

<o:p>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-takes-dig-at-icc-after-best-pull-shot-tweet-288013">Rohit Sharma takes dig at ICC after 'Best Pull Shot' tweet</a></o:p>

As per reports, Kapoor dined in the hotel’s buffet and also attended several guests in the lobby. <o:p></o:p>

"There are reports that she dined in the hotel's buffet and also attended several guests in the lobby," an official was quoted as saying on Sunday.<o:p></o:p>

"She was living there at a time when the South African team was staying in the hotel for the ODI match, which eventually was called off. There is information that Kanika was seen briefly attending a news channel's annual conclave held at the hotel. Therefore, it is important to scan the CCTV footage and list those who came in contact with her,” the official added.<o:p></o:p>

Since the news broke out that Kapoor stayed at Taj Hotel in Lucknow, the hotel has been shut without any reason being cited for doing so.

<o:p>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sri-lanka-legend-kumar-sangakkara-in-self-quarantine-after-returning-from-uk-287994">Sri Lanka legend Kumar Sangakkara in self-quarantine after returning from UK</a>

Even former Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje and her son and BJP MP Dushyant Singh attended the same party which Kapoor attended as a guest. The duo had met Kapoor in Lucknow but they tested negative for the COVID-19. However, both of them will continue to be in isolation for 15 days.<o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, the novel coronavirus has left the sporting calendar shattered with every major tournaments and leagues getting either postponed or cancelled. Several question marks are being raised on the 2020 Tokyo Olympics as Canada on Monday became the first nation to pull out from the quadrennial event due to coronavirus pandemic.<o:p></o:p>

The novel coronavirus continues to spread like a wildfire with the entire world coming under its dreaded wings. In India, the number of positive cases has crossed 350-mark with at least seven deaths confirmed as of Monday afternoon.

The novel coronavirus continues to spread like a wildfire with the entire world coming under its dreaded wings. In India, the number of positive cases has crossed 350-mark with at least seven deaths confirmed as of Monday afternoon. Bollywood singer Kanika Kapoor, who was tested positive for COVID-19, stayed in the same five-star hotel as the South African cricket team, who were in India for a three-match ODI series against the Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue. The series was ultimately postponed due to the novel coronavirus pandemic. Kapoor was tested positive for COVID-19 on Friday after returning from London and had attended a party at the Taj Hotel in Lucknow – where the South Africa cricket team were staying ahead of the second ODI which was scheduled to be played at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow on March 15 before the series was called off. ALSO READ: Rohit Sharma takes dig at ICC after 'Best Pull Shot' tweet As per reports, Kapoor dined in the hotel’s buffet and also attended several guests in the lobby. "There are reports that she dined in the hotel's buffet and also attended several guests in the lobby," an official was quoted as saying on Sunday. "She was living there at a time when the South African team was staying in the hotel for the ODI match, which eventually was called off. There is information that Kanika was seen briefly attending a news channel's annual conclave held at the hotel. Therefore, it is important to scan the CCTV footage and list those who came in contact with her,” the official added. Since the news broke out that Kapoor stayed at Taj Hotel in Lucknow, the hotel has been shut without any reason being cited for doing so. ALSO READ: Sri Lanka legend Kumar Sangakkara in self-quarantine after returning from UK Even former Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje and her son and BJP MP Dushyant Singh attended the same party which Kapoor attended as a guest. The duo had met Kapoor in Lucknow but they tested negative for the COVID-19. However, both of them will continue to be in isolation for 15 days. Meanwhile, the novel coronavirus has left the sporting calendar shattered with every major tournaments and leagues getting either postponed or cancelled. Several question marks are being raised on the 2020 Tokyo Olympics as Canada on Monday became the first nation to pull out from the quadrennial event due to coronavirus pandemic.

South Africa cricket team stayed in same Lucknow hotel as Kanika Kapoor: Report

Olympic champion swimmer Cameron van der Burgh said Sunday that he had contracted COVID-19, offering insight into how coronavirus infection could affect 2020 Olympic hopefuls.

"I have been struggling with Covid-19 for 14 days today," South Africa's van der Burgh wrote on Twitter. "By far the worst virus I have ever endured despite being a healthy individual with strong lungs (no smoking/sport), living a healthy lifestyle and being young (least at risk demographic)."

Van der Burgh, the 2012 Olympic 100m breaststroke world champion and former world record-holder, retired from the sport in 2018.

A still-fit 31, he remained among those least likely to be severely impacted by the deadly virus.

But he said the debilitating effects of the illness were lingering.

"Although the most severe symptoms (extreme fever) have eased, I am still struggling with serious fatigue and a residual cough that I can't shake," van der Burgh wrote. "Any physical activity like walking leaves me exhausted for hours."

Van der Burgh followed his London triumph with a silver medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics and retired after winning gold in the 2018 short course world championships.

He said contracting the virus would be a severe blow to any athlete in training.

"The loss in body conditioning has been immense and can only feel for the athletes that contract Covid-19 as they will suffer a great loss of current conditioning through the last training cycle. Infection closer to competition being the worst."

As the International Olympic Committee faced mounting pressure to delay the 2020 Tokyo Games in the face of the coronavirus pandemic, van der Burgh feared that Olympic hopefuls would put their health at risk trying to prepare.

"Athletes will continue to train as there is no clarification re summer Games and thus are exposing themselves to unnecessary risk -- and those that do contract will try rush back to training most likely enhancing/extending the damage/recovery time," he wrote. "Please, look after yourself everyone! Health comes first -- COVID-19 is no joke!"

Olympic champion swimmer Cameron van der Burgh said Sunday that he had contracted COVID-19, offering insight into how coronavirus infection could affect 2020 Olympic hopefuls.

Olympic champion swimmer Cameron van der Burgh said Sunday that he had contracted COVID-19, offering insight into how coronavirus infection could affect 2020 Olympic hopefuls. "I have been struggling with Covid-19 for 14 days today," South Africa's van der Burgh wrote on Twitter. "By far the worst virus I have ever endured despite being a healthy individual with strong lungs (no smoking/sport), living a healthy lifestyle and being young (least at risk demographic)." Van der Burgh, the 2012 Olympic 100m breaststroke world champion and former world record-holder, retired from the sport in 2018. A still-fit 31, he remained among those least likely to be severely impacted by the deadly virus. But he said the debilitating effects of the illness were lingering. "Although the most severe symptoms (extreme fever) have eased, I am still struggling with serious fatigue and a residual cough that I can't shake," van der Burgh wrote. "Any physical activity like walking leaves me exhausted for hours." Van der Burgh followed his London triumph with a silver medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics and retired after winning gold in the 2018 short course world championships. He said contracting the virus would be a severe blow to any athlete in training. "The loss in body conditioning has been immense and can only feel for the athletes that contract Covid-19 as they will suffer a great loss of current conditioning through the last training cycle. Infection closer to competition being the worst." As the International Olympic Committee faced mounting pressure to delay the 2020 Tokyo Games in the face of the coronavirus pandemic, van der Burgh feared that Olympic hopefuls would put their health at risk trying to prepare. "Athletes will continue to train as there is no clarification re summer Games and thus are exposing themselves to unnecessary risk -- and those that do contract will try rush back to training most likely enhancing/extending the damage/recovery time," he wrote. "Please, look after yourself everyone! Health comes first -- COVID-19 is no joke!"

Coronavirus 'no joke' Olympic gold medallist van der Burgh warns

Sri Lankan batting great Kumar Sangakkara has said he is currently in self-quarantine, following his government's guidelines for those recently returning from Europe, which has now become the epicentre of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The authorities are concerned over people returning from the most-affected COVID-19 countries in Europe not registering with the police and practising isolation.

"I have no symptoms or anything like that, but I'm following government guidelines," Sangakkara told News First.

"I arrived from London over a week ago and the first thing was there was a news bulletin saying that anyone who had travelled from within March 1 to 15 should register themselves with the police and undergo self quarantine. I registered myself with the police."

The former captain said this even as the government confirmed there have been at least three cases of recent returnees attempting to hide the novel coronavirus symptoms from authorities.

Both Sangakkara and his former teammate Mahela Jayawardene have been active on social media, urging Sri Lankans to avoid panic and to exercise proper social distancing, as the country went into curfew on Friday evening.

Sri Lanka has so far reported more than 80 active COVID-19 positive cases in the country.

Across the world, the number of infected has crossed three lakh besides a death toll of more than 14,000 people.

Meanwhile, former Australia pacer Jason Gillespie has also gone into a two-week isolation after returning from the United Kingdom.

Gillespie, who is the head coach at Sussex, had been in Cape Town with the team for a pre-season tour, which was cut short as a result of the coronavirus outbreak.

Sri Lankan batting great Kumar Sangakkara has said he is currently in self-quarantine, following his government's guidelines for those recently returning from Europe, which has now become the epicentre of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Sri Lankan batting great Kumar Sangakkara has said he is currently in self-quarantine, following his government's guidelines for those recently returning from Europe, which has now become the epicentre of the COVID-19 pandemic. The authorities are concerned over people returning from the most-affected COVID-19 countries in Europe not registering with the police and practising isolation. "I have no symptoms or anything like that, but I'm following government guidelines," Sangakkara told News First. "I arrived from London over a week ago and the first thing was there was a news bulletin saying that anyone who had travelled from within March 1 to 15 should register themselves with the police and undergo self quarantine. I registered myself with the police." The former captain said this even as the government confirmed there have been at least three cases of recent returnees attempting to hide the novel coronavirus symptoms from authorities. Both Sangakkara and his former teammate Mahela Jayawardene have been active on social media, urging Sri Lankans to avoid panic and to exercise proper social distancing, as the country went into curfew on Friday evening. Sri Lanka has so far reported more than 80 active COVID-19 positive cases in the country. Across the world, the number of infected has crossed three lakh besides a death toll of more than 14,000 people. Meanwhile, former Australia pacer Jason Gillespie has also gone into a two-week isolation after returning from the United Kingdom. Gillespie, who is the head coach at Sussex, had been in Cape Town with the team for a pre-season tour, which was cut short as a result of the coronavirus outbreak.

Sri Lanka legend Kumar Sangakkara in self-quarantine after returning from UK

The Indian Olympic Association on Monday said it is ready to wait for at least a month before taking any final call on India’s participation at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics after Canada became the first nation to pull out of the quadrennial event if it is held this year. Not only Canada, but even Australia have asked its athletes to prepare for the Games in 2021 as it thinks the showpiece event will eventually get postponed as the situation surrounding the novel COVID-19 continues to deteriorate with each passing day.

IOA Secretary General Rajeev Mehta said the committee is closely monitoring the development surrounding the coronavirus pandemic, which has killed a staggering 14,000 while infecting over 3,00,000.&nbsp;

Mehta said IOC will wait and watch for the next four to five weeks before taking any call after consultation with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the sports ministry while adding the situation in India is not that bad as compared to other nations.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/postponing-tokyo-olympics-may-become-inevitable-says-japan-pm-abe-as-coronavirus-emergency-grows-287958">Postponing Tokyo Olympics may become 'inevitable', says Japan PM Abe as coronavirus emergency grows</a>

<h2>"We will wait and watch"</h2>

"We will wait and watch for 4 to 5 weeks and then come to any decision after consultation with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the sports ministry," Mehta told PTI.

"The situation is not that bad in our country as compared to other nations," he added.

ALSO READ:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/canada-athletes-will-not-compete-at-tokyo-2020-games-due-to-risks-of-covid-19-287963">&nbsp;Canada: Athletes will not compete at Tokyo 2020 Games due to risks of COVID-19</a>

Furthermore, Japan’s Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Monday told the parliament that the postponement of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics ‘may become inevitable’ if the situation surrounding the novel COVID-19 continues to deteriorate.

Abe said while the nation is still completely committed to a ‘complete’ Games, postponement may be inevitable considering the safety and welfare of athletes first. Abe in the parliament said: "if that becomes difficult, in light of considering athletes first, it may become inevitable that we make a decision to postpone."

The total number of COVID-19 cases in India has crossed 350, including seven deaths so far.

<o:p></o:p>

The Indian Olympic Association on Monday said it is ready to wait for at least a month before taking any final call on India’s participation at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics after Canada became the first nation to pull out of the quadrennial event if it is held this year.

The Indian Olympic Association on Monday said it is ready to wait for at least a month before taking any final call on India’s participation at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics after Canada became the first nation to pull out of the quadrennial event if it is held this year. Not only Canada, but even Australia have asked its athletes to prepare for the Games in 2021 as it thinks the showpiece event will eventually get postponed as the situation surrounding the novel COVID-19 continues to deteriorate with each passing day. IOA Secretary General Rajeev Mehta said the committee is closely monitoring the development surrounding the coronavirus pandemic, which has killed a staggering 14,000 while infecting over 3,00,000. Mehta said IOC will wait and watch for the next four to five weeks before taking any call after consultation with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the sports ministry while adding the situation in India is not that bad as compared to other nations. ALSO READ: Postponing Tokyo Olympics may become 'inevitable', says Japan PM Abe as coronavirus emergency grows "We will wait and watch" "We will wait and watch for 4 to 5 weeks and then come to any decision after consultation with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the sports ministry," Mehta told PTI. "The situation is not that bad in our country as compared to other nations," he added. ALSO READ: Canada: Athletes will not compete at Tokyo 2020 Games due to risks of COVID-19 Furthermore, Japan’s Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Monday told the parliament that the postponement of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics ‘may become inevitable’ if the situation surrounding the novel COVID-19 continues to deteriorate. Abe said while the nation is still completely committed to a ‘complete’ Games, postponement may be inevitable considering the safety and welfare of athletes first. Abe in the parliament said: "if that becomes difficult, in light of considering athletes first, it may become inevitable that we make a decision to postpone." The total number of COVID-19 cases in India has crossed 350, including seven deaths so far.

IOA ready to 'wait and watch for a month before any decision' as Canada pulls out of 2020 Tokyo Olympics

Forced into lockdown by the coronavirus, English teams outside the lucrative Premier League are facing an unprecedented period of financial uncertainty.

Championship, League One and League Two matches will not resume until April 30 at the earliest and even that date looks optimistic given the chaos caused by the pandemic.

A grim reality is taking hold in boardrooms around the country and some teams fear they could be forced out of business if football doesn't return until after the summer.

Aware of the growing panic, the Football League agreed a £50 million ($58 million) relief package, based on an early payment of bonuses, television money and an interest-free loan, to assist financially stricken clubs.

But reports this week claimed that will only be enough to tide clubs over for the next four weeks.

Cambridge chief executive officer Ian Mather admits the rescue package may not be enough, with the nightmare prospect of having to lay off staff a possibility.

"These are unprecedented times for all of us in so many different ways," Mather said.

"One of the most concerning features of the situation for everyone is that there is no clarity as to when it will end.

"This (rescue package) is welcome news but the amount we can access is relatively small and it is far from a complete answer to the financial problem we are facing.

"We are looking at ways of reducing our cost base and this will include making some extremely difficult decisions when it comes to our staff."

Without matchday revenue, it is likely that some clubs will ask their players to accept wage cuts if the lockdown continues into the summer.

In Scotland, top-flight outfit Hearts have already told their players and staff to take a 50 percent wage cut in a bid to stay afloat.

<h2>- 'Hit hard' -</h2>

There could be aid on the horizon if television broadcaster Sky Sports are willing to release some of the £119 million they are due to play the Football League next season.

But that remains uncertain and, for now, fear is the over-riding mood across the English game.

Steve Thompson, managing director of Dagenham, believes the fifth tier National League will need a bailout from the British government to survive.

Thompson said clubs in the National League will, between them, require between £15 million and £20 million to keep running and revealed talks are ongoing with the Football Association.

"It is going to require government help. The biggest worry is that so many non-league clubs, they are integral parts of their community. It worries me if these clubs are lost, what will happen going forward," Thompson said.

"There needs to be a concentrated effort. I don't think we can expect a bailout from the Premier League or FA, so it needs to be government led."

It may not be only non-league and lower league teams in England who feel the pinch, with Championship sides Charlton and Blackburn both having endured financial difficulties before the virus.

Millwall are one of the smaller teams in the second tier, with their 13,734 average gate, ranked 18th among the 24 clubs.

The south London side's chief executive Steve Kavanagh said they have already been wounded by the sudden halt to the season.

"We're like all other businesses, we've been hit hard, but our income stream just stopped overnight," Kavanagh said.

"Like everybody else, it will have impacts on us. I'm not going to shy away from that. But hopefully if we can all pull together we can find a way through.&nbsp;

"We've got an owner who's been around a long time and I'm sure will help the club as best he can."

Forced into lockdown by the coronavirus, English teams outside the lucrative Premier League are facing an unprecedented period of financial uncertainty. Championship, League One and League Two matches will not resume until April 30 at the earliest and even that date looks optimistic given the chaos caused by the pandemic.

Forced into lockdown by the coronavirus, English teams outside the lucrative Premier League are facing an unprecedented period of financial uncertainty. Championship, League One and League Two matches will not resume until April 30 at the earliest and even that date looks optimistic given the chaos caused by the pandemic. A grim reality is taking hold in boardrooms around the country and some teams fear they could be forced out of business if football doesn't return until after the summer. Aware of the growing panic, the Football League agreed a £50 million ($58 million) relief package, based on an early payment of bonuses, television money and an interest-free loan, to assist financially stricken clubs. But reports this week claimed that will only be enough to tide clubs over for the next four weeks. Cambridge chief executive officer Ian Mather admits the rescue package may not be enough, with the nightmare prospect of having to lay off staff a possibility. "These are unprecedented times for all of us in so many different ways," Mather said. "One of the most concerning features of the situation for everyone is that there is no clarity as to when it will end. "This (rescue package) is welcome news but the amount we can access is relatively small and it is far from a complete answer to the financial problem we are facing. "We are looking at ways of reducing our cost base and this will include making some extremely difficult decisions when it comes to our staff." Without matchday revenue, it is likely that some clubs will ask their players to accept wage cuts if the lockdown continues into the summer. In Scotland, top-flight outfit Hearts have already told their players and staff to take a 50 percent wage cut in a bid to stay afloat. - 'Hit hard' - There could be aid on the horizon if television broadcaster Sky Sports are willing to release some of the £119 million they are due to play the Football League next season. But that remains uncertain and, for now, fear is the over-riding mood across the English game. Steve Thompson, managing director of Dagenham, believes the fifth tier National League will need a bailout from the British government to survive. Thompson said clubs in the National League will, between them, require between £15 million and £20 million to keep running and revealed talks are ongoing with the Football Association. "It is going to require government help. The biggest worry is that so many non-league clubs, they are integral parts of their community. It worries me if these clubs are lost, what will happen going forward," Thompson said. "There needs to be a concentrated effort. I don't think we can expect a bailout from the Premier League or FA, so it needs to be government led." It may not be only non-league and lower league teams in England who feel the pinch, with Championship sides Charlton and Blackburn both having endured financial difficulties before the virus. Millwall are one of the smaller teams in the second tier, with their 13,734 average gate, ranked 18th among the 24 clubs. The south London side's chief executive Steve Kavanagh said they have already been wounded by the sudden halt to the season. "We're like all other businesses, we've been hit hard, but our income stream just stopped overnight," Kavanagh said. "Like everybody else, it will have impacts on us. I'm not going to shy away from that. But hopefully if we can all pull together we can find a way through. "We've got an owner who's been around a long time and I'm sure will help the club as best he can."

Virus chaos leaves English clubs fearing for their future

The novel coronavirus has continued to disrupt daily life worldwide with at least 195 positive COVID-19 cases already reported in India. While the entire world continues to fight back against the deadly virus, the sporting calendar has been left hanging by a thin thread. All the major tournaments and sporting events have been either postponed or cancelled with athletes continuing to maintain social distancing as per health advisories.

The skipper of the Indian cricket team, Virat Kohli along with his wife and Bollywood superstar Anushka Sharma took to social media platform Twitter to post an awareness video surrounding the novel coronavirus. In the video, both Kohli and Anushka urged everyone to stay safe by practicing self-isolation during this dire situation. Anushka went on to add that the only way we can curb the deadly virus is by ‘acting together’.

"We all know we are going through a very difficult time," Kohli said. "And the only way to stop the spread of Coronavirus is by acting together," urged Anushka.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-indias-leading-sporting-voices-prefer-olympic-postponement-287443">EXCLUSIVE: India's leading sporting voices prefer Olympic postponement</a>

Kohli further said, "We are staying at home for our safety and for everyone else's one." Whereas Anushka followed by saying, "...you should do it too to prevent the further spread of the virus."

"Let's make it safe for us and everyone else by self-isolation," said Kohli while Anushka concluded the video with," stay at home and stay healthy."

Anushka’s caption read: Stay Home. “Stay Safe. Stay Healthy.” Whereas Kohli tweeted: The need of the hour is to absolutely respect and follow the government's directive. Stay home. Stay safe. Stay healthy.

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The need of the hour is to absolutely respect and follow the government's directive. Stay home. Stay safe. Stay healthy. <a href="https://t.co/p1NDo0E9YL">https://t.co/p1NDo0E9YL</a>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1240864175645020160?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Stay Home. Stay Safe. Stay Healthy. <a href="https://t.co/UNMi2xQbbz">pic.twitter.com/UNMi2xQbbz</a>
— Anushka Sharma (@AnushkaSharma) <a href="https://twitter.com/AnushkaSharma/status/1240858203413303301?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

The entire sporting fraternity has been urging citizens to follow the Health Ministry’s advisory. The likes of Ravichandran Ashwin, Ajinkya Rahane, Rishabh Pant, Mayank Agarwal to name a few, have already taken to Twitter at least a couple of times to aware the citizen of the country to maintain social-distancing and self-isolation to fight back against the novel coronavirus.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/amid-coronavirus-pandemic-shane-warne-turns-gin-business-into-hand-sanitiser-factory-287436">Amid coronavirus pandemic, Shane Warne turns gin business into hand sanitiser factory</a>

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Be alert, attentive and aware to combat the threat posed by the Covid 19. We, as responsible citizens, need to adhere to the norms put in place for our safety as announced by our Honourable Prime Minister Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NarendraModi</a> ji. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaFightsCorona?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaFightsCorona</a>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1240661693903953920?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 19, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Indian Premier League (IPL) was suspended until April 15 with another meeting between the BCCI and franchise owners expected to take place in the first week of April to discuss the proposition of how to proceed with the cash-rich tournament.

The novel coronavirus has continued to disrupt daily life worldwide with at least 195 positive COVID-19 cases already reported in India. While the entire world continues to fight back against the deadly virus, the sporting calendar has been left hanging by a thin thread.

The novel coronavirus has continued to disrupt daily life worldwide with at least 195 positive COVID-19 cases already reported in India. While the entire world continues to fight back against the deadly virus, the sporting calendar has been left hanging by a thin thread. All the major tournaments and sporting events have been either postponed or cancelled with athletes continuing to maintain social distancing as per health advisories. The skipper of the Indian cricket team, Virat Kohli along with his wife and Bollywood superstar Anushka Sharma took to social media platform Twitter to post an awareness video surrounding the novel coronavirus. In the video, both Kohli and Anushka urged everyone to stay safe by practicing self-isolation during this dire situation. Anushka went on to add that the only way we can curb the deadly virus is by ‘acting together’. "We all know we are going through a very difficult time," Kohli said. "And the only way to stop the spread of Coronavirus is by acting together," urged Anushka. ALSO READ: EXCLUSIVE: India's leading sporting voices prefer Olympic postponement Kohli further said, "We are staying at home for our safety and for everyone else's one." Whereas Anushka followed by saying, "...you should do it too to prevent the further spread of the virus." "Let's make it safe for us and everyone else by self-isolation," said Kohli while Anushka concluded the video with," stay at home and stay healthy." Anushka’s caption read: Stay Home. “Stay Safe. Stay Healthy.” Whereas Kohli tweeted: The need of the hour is to absolutely respect and follow the government's directive. Stay home. Stay safe. Stay healthy. The need of the hour is to absolutely respect and follow the government's directive. Stay home. Stay safe. Stay healthy. https://t.co/p1NDo0E9YL — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) March 20, 2020 × Stay Home. Stay Safe. Stay Healthy. pic.twitter.com/UNMi2xQbbz — Anushka Sharma (@AnushkaSharma) March 20, 2020 × The entire sporting fraternity has been urging citizens to follow the Health Ministry’s advisory. The likes of Ravichandran Ashwin, Ajinkya Rahane, Rishabh Pant, Mayank Agarwal to name a few, have already taken to Twitter at least a couple of times to aware the citizen of the country to maintain social-distancing and self-isolation to fight back against the novel coronavirus. ALSO READ: Amid coronavirus pandemic, Shane Warne turns gin business into hand sanitiser factory Be alert, attentive and aware to combat the threat posed by the Covid 19. We, as responsible citizens, need to adhere to the norms put in place for our safety as announced by our Honourable Prime Minister Shri @NarendraModi ji. #IndiaFightsCorona — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) March 19, 2020 × Meanwhile, the Indian Premier League (IPL) was suspended until April 15 with another meeting between the BCCI and franchise owners expected to take place in the first week of April to discuss the proposition of how to proceed with the cash-rich tournament.

Watch: 'The need of the hour is to..' - Virat Kohli, Anushka Sharma urge people to act together against COVID-19

Former England batsman Kevin Pietersen on Friday won hearts as he took to social media platform Twitter to aware his Indian fans and followers about the novel coronavirus which is spreading like a wildfire all over the world. Confirmed cases of COVID-19 climbed to at least 241 in India on Friday with new cases being reported from parts of Maharashtra, Gujarat, Punjab, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;

Pietersen went desi as he posted an awareness message in Hindi with the help of Bengal and Sunrisers Hyderabad wicket-keeper Shreevats Goswami while urging&nbsp;every Indian to follow the guidelines provided by the Indian government. The swashbuckling former cricketer appealed&nbsp;to everyone to remain at their respective residences for a few days to curb the spread of COVID-19.

“Namaste india Folded hands hum sab corona virus ko harane mein ek saath hai, hum sab apne apne sqarkar ki baat ka nirdes kare aur ghar me kuch Dino ke liye rahe , yeh samay hai hosiyaar rahene ka .App sabhi ko der sara pyaar My Hindi teacher - @shreevats1,” Pietersen had tweeted.&nbsp;

ALSO&nbsp;WATCH: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-masked-virat-kohli-refuses-selfie-request-at-airport-over-covid-19-concern-287640">'Masked' Virat Kohli refuses selfie request at airport over COVID-19 concern</a>

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Namaste india hum sab corona virus ko harane mein ek saath hai , hum sab apne apne sarkar ki baat ka nirdes kare aur ghar me kuch Dino ke liye rahe , yeh samay hai hosiyaar rahene ka .App sabhi ko der sara pyaar 
 
My Hindi teacher - <a href="https://twitter.com/shreevats1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@shreevats1</a>
— Kevin Pietersen (@KP24) <a href="https://twitter.com/KP24/status/1240903502345486336?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Reacting to Pietersen’s tweet, PM Modi replied: “Explosive batsmen who've seen teams through crises have something to say to us. We too will come together to fight COVID-19. #IndiaFightsCorona”

PM Modi even shared tweets by Virat Kohli, Suresh Raina, Ajinkya Rahane and Shikhar Dhawan in a bid to raise awareness surrounding the novel coronavirus.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sachin-tendulkar-urges-everyone-to-draw-lessons-from-test-cricket-to-tackle-covid-19-287309">Sachin Tendulkar urges everyone to draw lessons from Test cricket to tackle COVID-19</a>

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Explosive batsmen who've seen teams through crises have something to say to us. 
 
We too will come together to fight COVID-19. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaFightsCorona?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaFightsCorona</a><a href="https://t.co/vSZCibHvzz">https://t.co/vSZCibHvzz</a><a href="https://t.co/XPXNhJ0Rlx">https://t.co/XPXNhJ0Rlx</a><a href="https://t.co/0a7JcT4IVV">https://t.co/0a7JcT4IVV</a><a href="https://t.co/wEIFA6ZehQ">https://t.co/wEIFA6ZehQ</a><a href="https://t.co/e63GDehTOg">https://t.co/e63GDehTOg</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1240987143104688128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Pietersen replied back to PM Modi by praising his leadership qualities as he wrote, in Hindi: "Shukriya Modi ji,&nbsp;aapki leadership bhi kaafi bispotak hai"&nbsp;

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Shukriya Modi ji , aapki leadership bhi kaafi bispotak hai
— Kevin Pietersen (@KP24) <a href="https://twitter.com/KP24/status/1240989666733707266?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2020</a></blockquote>
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PM Modi on Thursday had announced the implementation of ‘Janata Curfew’ on March 22 (Sunday) – under which no one is supposed to step out of their house between 7 am to 9 pm. He even urged the citizen to not panic and follow all the precaution as per the advisory issued by the Health Ministry. Many cricketers including the likes of Kohli, Rahane, Ravichandran Ashwin, Rishabh Pant, to name a few, had praised PM Modi's speech while urging everyone to maintain social distancing.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, all major sporting events have been either cancelled or postponed amid the novel coronavirus outbreak with dark clouds hovering over the 2020 Tokyo Olympics which is scheduled to take place from July 24 to August 9. Also, the Indian government has strictly advised against public gatherings.

<o:p></o:p>

Former England batsman Kevin Pietersen on Friday won hearts as he took to social media platform Twitter to aware his Indian fans and followers about the novel coronavirus which is spreading like a wildfire all over the world.

Former England batsman Kevin Pietersen on Friday won hearts as he took to social media platform Twitter to aware his Indian fans and followers about the novel coronavirus which is spreading like a wildfire all over the world. Confirmed cases of COVID-19 climbed to at least 241 in India on Friday with new cases being reported from parts of Maharashtra, Gujarat, Punjab, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh. Pietersen went desi as he posted an awareness message in Hindi with the help of Bengal and Sunrisers Hyderabad wicket-keeper Shreevats Goswami while urging every Indian to follow the guidelines provided by the Indian government. The swashbuckling former cricketer appealed to everyone to remain at their respective residences for a few days to curb the spread of COVID-19. “Namaste india Folded hands hum sab corona virus ko harane mein ek saath hai, hum sab apne apne sqarkar ki baat ka nirdes kare aur ghar me kuch Dino ke liye rahe , yeh samay hai hosiyaar rahene ka .App sabhi ko der sara pyaar My Hindi teacher - @shreevats1,” Pietersen had tweeted. ALSO WATCH: 'Masked' Virat Kohli refuses selfie request at airport over COVID-19 concern Namaste india hum sab corona virus ko harane mein ek saath hai , hum sab apne apne sarkar ki baat ka nirdes kare aur ghar me kuch Dino ke liye rahe , yeh samay hai hosiyaar rahene ka .App sabhi ko der sara pyaar My Hindi teacher - @shreevats1 — Kevin Pietersen (@KP24) March 20, 2020 × Reacting to Pietersen’s tweet, PM Modi replied: “Explosive batsmen who've seen teams through crises have something to say to us. We too will come together to fight COVID-19. #IndiaFightsCorona” PM Modi even shared tweets by Virat Kohli, Suresh Raina, Ajinkya Rahane and Shikhar Dhawan in a bid to raise awareness surrounding the novel coronavirus. ALSO READ: Sachin Tendulkar urges everyone to draw lessons from Test cricket to tackle COVID-19 Explosive batsmen who've seen teams through crises have something to say to us. We too will come together to fight COVID-19. #IndiaFightsCoronahttps://t.co/vSZCibHvzzhttps://t.co/XPXNhJ0Rlxhttps://t.co/0a7JcT4IVVhttps://t.co/wEIFA6ZehQhttps://t.co/e63GDehTOg — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 20, 2020 × Pietersen replied back to PM Modi by praising his leadership qualities as he wrote, in Hindi: "Shukriya Modi ji, aapki leadership bhi kaafi bispotak hai" Shukriya Modi ji , aapki leadership bhi kaafi bispotak hai — Kevin Pietersen (@KP24) March 20, 2020 × PM Modi on Thursday had announced the implementation of ‘Janata Curfew’ on March 22 (Sunday) – under which no one is supposed to step out of their house between 7 am to 9 pm. He even urged the citizen to not panic and follow all the precaution as per the advisory issued by the Health Ministry. Many cricketers including the likes of Kohli, Rahane, Ravichandran Ashwin, Rishabh Pant, to name a few, had praised PM Modi's speech while urging everyone to maintain social distancing. Meanwhile, all major sporting events have been either cancelled or postponed amid the novel coronavirus outbreak with dark clouds hovering over the 2020 Tokyo Olympics which is scheduled to take place from July 24 to August 9. Also, the Indian government has strictly advised against public gatherings.

PM Narendra Modi responds to Kevin Pietersen's tweet, joins forces with 'explosive batsmen' to fight against COVID-19

Malaysia on Friday said a 58-year-old man had died from COVID-19, bringing its total number of deaths from coronavirus infection to three.

The case is linked to an Islamic gathering near Kuala Lumpur that was attended by 16,000 people, the health ministry said.

The event, which had participants from over 20 countries, has been linked to nearly 750 cases in Southeast Asia.

Malaysia on Friday said a 58-year-old man had died from COVID-19, bringing its total number of deaths from coronavirus infection to three. The case is linked to an Islamic gathering near Kuala Lumpur that was attended by 16,000 people, the health ministry said.

Malaysia on Friday said a 58-year-old man had died from COVID-19, bringing its total number of deaths from coronavirus infection to three. The case is linked to an Islamic gathering near Kuala Lumpur that was attended by 16,000 people, the health ministry said. The event, which had participants from over 20 countries, has been linked to nearly 750 cases in Southeast Asia.

Malaysia reports third coronavirus death

Formula One's drivers will battle it out in an Esports Virtual Grand Prix series in a bid to give fans their racing fix while the season is delayed by the coronavirus.

The 2020 campaign has been put on hold due to the pandemic and races in Australia, Bahrain, Vietnam, China, Holland, Spain and Monaco were all postponed.

Formula One chiefs are aiming to start racing in Azerbaijan on June 7, but to fill the void, for now, the sport has asked current F1 drivers to play a racing game featuring as-yet-unnamed celebrity guests.

"Featuring a number of current F1 drivers, the series has been created to enable fans to continue watching Formula 1 races virtually, despite the ongoing COVID-19 situation that has affected this season's opening race calendar," a statement said.

"The first race of the series will see current F1 drivers line up on the grid alongside a host of stars to be announced in due course.&nbsp;

"In order to guarantee the participants safety at this time, each driver will join the race remotely."

F1 drivers Max Verstappen and Lando Norris took part in two separate virtual races last weekend following the cancellation of the Australian Grand Prix.

The races will be run for 28 laps for around 90 minutes and will take place at the same time as the postponed Grands Prix would have occurred.

The events start this weekend with the Virtual Bahrain Grand Prix run on the official 2019 F1 video game.

Viewers will be able to tune in via YouTube, Facebook and Twitch with a qualifying session to determine the grid preceding the race itself.

Results will not count towards the F1 world championship, but the plan is to run the virtual tournament until real racing can return.

Formula One's drivers will battle it out in an Esports Virtual Grand Prix series in a bid to give fans their racing fix while the season is delayed by the coronavirus.

Formula One's drivers will battle it out in an Esports Virtual Grand Prix series in a bid to give fans their racing fix while the season is delayed by the coronavirus. The 2020 campaign has been put on hold due to the pandemic and races in Australia, Bahrain, Vietnam, China, Holland, Spain and Monaco were all postponed. Formula One chiefs are aiming to start racing in Azerbaijan on June 7, but to fill the void, for now, the sport has asked current F1 drivers to play a racing game featuring as-yet-unnamed celebrity guests. "Featuring a number of current F1 drivers, the series has been created to enable fans to continue watching Formula 1 races virtually, despite the ongoing COVID-19 situation that has affected this season's opening race calendar," a statement said. "The first race of the series will see current F1 drivers line up on the grid alongside a host of stars to be announced in due course. "In order to guarantee the participants safety at this time, each driver will join the race remotely." F1 drivers Max Verstappen and Lando Norris took part in two separate virtual races last weekend following the cancellation of the Australian Grand Prix. The races will be run for 28 laps for around 90 minutes and will take place at the same time as the postponed Grands Prix would have occurred. The events start this weekend with the Virtual Bahrain Grand Prix run on the official 2019 F1 video game. Viewers will be able to tune in via YouTube, Facebook and Twitch with a qualifying session to determine the grid preceding the race itself. Results will not count towards the F1 world championship, but the plan is to run the virtual tournament until real racing can return.

F1 drivers to stage virtual reality races

<p content="LONDON, March 20 (Reuters) - Britain has banned the parallel export of 80 crucial medicines including adrenaline, insulin, paracetamol and morphine to protect supplies during the coronavirus outbreak." data-reactid="12" type="text">Britain has banned the parallel export of 80 crucial medicines including adrenaline, insulin, paracetamol and morphine to protect supplies during the coronavirus outbreak.

<p content="The government describes parallel exporting as the purchase of medicines meant for UK patients but sold on for a higher price in another country, potentially causing or aggravating supply problems." data-reactid="13" type="text">The government describes parallel exporting as the purchase of medicines meant for UK patients but sold on for a higher price in another country, potentially causing or aggravating supply problems.

<p content="Any company found to be parallel exporting could face tough action from the country's drug regulator, including the removal of their trading licence, the department of health said. (Reporting by Kate Holton; editing by Guy Faulconbridge)" data-reactid="14" type="text">Any company found to be parallel exporting could face tough action from the country's drug regulator, including the removal of their trading licence, the department of health said.

Britain has banned the parallel export of 80 crucial medicines including adrenaline, insulin, paracetamol and morphine to protect supplies during the coronavirus outbreak.

Britain has banned the parallel export of 80 crucial medicines including adrenaline, insulin, paracetamol and morphine to protect supplies during the coronavirus outbreak. The government describes parallel exporting as the purchase of medicines meant for UK patients but sold on for a higher price in another country, potentially causing or aggravating supply problems. Any company found to be parallel exporting could face tough action from the country's drug regulator, including the removal of their trading licence, the department of health said.

UK bans parallel exports of key drugs to protect supplies

The novel coronavirus has brought the entire world to a stand-still. While the World Health Organisation (WHO) has already issued advisories to curb the spread of the deadly COVID-19, Indian Health Ministry is also continuously monitoring the situation in India while providing a fresh set of guidelines as per the situation.

Athletes have been asked to not oblige to request of selfies and autographs by the fans and maintain social distancing as much as possible. Keeping the advisory in mind, the Indian cricket team’s skipper Virat Kohli was seen refusing an autograph request by one of the fans at the airport.

While the location of the incident has not been revealed, a video of Kohli at the airport went viral on social media platform Twitter, where the Indian skipper is seen walking away from the young fan who waited for a selfie with the superstar.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-the-need-of-the-hour-is-to-virat-kohli-anushka-sharma-urge-people-to-act-together-against-covid-19-287514">'The need of the hour is to..' - Virat Kohli, Anushka Sharma urge people to act together against COVID-19</a>

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<a href="https://t.co/KdgdNfcuGg">pic.twitter.com/KdgdNfcuGg</a>
— Anpadh educated (@PRINCE3758458) <a href="https://twitter.com/PRINCE3758458/status/1240618300154843136?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 19, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Earlier on Friday, Kohli posted a video along with his wife and Bollywood superstar Anushka Sharma as the power-couple pleaded everyone to stay safe and healthy while maintaining social distancing as much as possible.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kevin-pietersen-reaches-out-to-india-on-coronavirus-awareness-in-hindi-287538">Kevin Pietersen reaches out to India on coronavirus awareness in Hindi</a>

Meanwhile, all the sporting events have been either cancelled or postponed keeping the spread of the novel coronavirus in mind. In the cricket world, the three-match ODI series between India and South Africa was aborted mid-way whereas the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) decided to suspend the much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 until April 15.&nbsp;

All other sporting events such as Premier League, Bundesliga, French Open, Euro 2020, to name a few, have been postponed until further notice amid the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

The novel coronavirus has brought the entire world to a stand-still. While the World Health Organisation (WHO) has already issued advisories to curb the spread of the deadly COVID-19, Indian Health Ministry is also continuously monitoring the situation in India while providing a fresh set of guidelines as per the situation.

The novel coronavirus has brought the entire world to a stand-still. While the World Health Organisation (WHO) has already issued advisories to curb the spread of the deadly COVID-19, Indian Health Ministry is also continuously monitoring the situation in India while providing a fresh set of guidelines as per the situation. Athletes have been asked to not oblige to request of selfies and autographs by the fans and maintain social distancing as much as possible. Keeping the advisory in mind, the Indian cricket team’s skipper Virat Kohli was seen refusing an autograph request by one of the fans at the airport. While the location of the incident has not been revealed, a video of Kohli at the airport went viral on social media platform Twitter, where the Indian skipper is seen walking away from the young fan who waited for a selfie with the superstar. ALSO READ: 'The need of the hour is to..' - Virat Kohli, Anushka Sharma urge people to act together against COVID-19 pic.twitter.com/KdgdNfcuGg — Anpadh educated (@PRINCE3758458) March 19, 2020 × Earlier on Friday, Kohli posted a video along with his wife and Bollywood superstar Anushka Sharma as the power-couple pleaded everyone to stay safe and healthy while maintaining social distancing as much as possible. ALSO READ: Kevin Pietersen reaches out to India on coronavirus awareness in Hindi Meanwhile, all the sporting events have been either cancelled or postponed keeping the spread of the novel coronavirus in mind. In the cricket world, the three-match ODI series between India and South Africa was aborted mid-way whereas the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) decided to suspend the much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 until April 15. All other sporting events such as Premier League, Bundesliga, French Open, Euro 2020, to name a few, have been postponed until further notice amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

WATCH: 'Masked' Virat Kohli refuses selfie request at airport over COVID-19 concern

French defender Aymeric Laporte has urged his Manchester City teammates to keep up their home training routines during their self-isolation -- but admits he cannot stop thinking about the club's possible exclusion from the Champions League.

The 25-year-old is presently recovering from a hamstring problem, the latest in a litany of injuries that has limited him to eight appearances this season.

City's players have had to stay at home and been given training plans since the reigning Premier League champions closed the training ground following British government advice on Monday to avoid all non-essential travel and contact.

"That's (personal training schedule) the best thing for everyone, that we do it every day," Laporte said, quoted in The Times on Friday.

"They trust in you and you have to be professional. You have to follow what they say and we have to be responsible in this case.

"When we return to normality, when we start training again outside, we have to be ready."

Premier League chiefs on Thursday fixed a planned resumption of domestic football for April 30. Britain has only just begun to take the same restrictive measures as other European countries to fight the pandemic.

Laporte said City players had been advised to adhere to the guidance on avoiding social contact.&nbsp;

"We have the same protocol as has been given out in all countries: stay at home as much as possible, don't go out in the street, don't shake hands with anyone," said Laporte.

"If you go to the supermarket and you see someone you know, say hello to them, but don't shake their hands or get close to them."

Laporte said he was worried about City's ban from European football for two years for breaching financial fairplay rules, although the club has appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).

“We are waiting for a final decision," said Laporte "We are going to see what happens next season.

"Obviously it would hurt us a lot if we aren't in the Champions League next season.

"I am very happy here at Manchester City. I am enjoying my football here. We are doing great things here. In the last two years we have won eight trophies."

French defender Aymeric Laporte has urged his Manchester City teammates to keep up their home training routines during their self-isolation -- but admits he cannot stop thinking about the club's possible exclusion from the Champions League.

French defender Aymeric Laporte has urged his Manchester City teammates to keep up their home training routines during their self-isolation -- but admits he cannot stop thinking about the club's possible exclusion from the Champions League. The 25-year-old is presently recovering from a hamstring problem, the latest in a litany of injuries that has limited him to eight appearances this season. City's players have had to stay at home and been given training plans since the reigning Premier League champions closed the training ground following British government advice on Monday to avoid all non-essential travel and contact. "That's (personal training schedule) the best thing for everyone, that we do it every day," Laporte said, quoted in The Times on Friday. "They trust in you and you have to be professional. You have to follow what they say and we have to be responsible in this case. "When we return to normality, when we start training again outside, we have to be ready." Premier League chiefs on Thursday fixed a planned resumption of domestic football for April 30. Britain has only just begun to take the same restrictive measures as other European countries to fight the pandemic. Laporte said City players had been advised to adhere to the guidance on avoiding social contact. "We have the same protocol as has been given out in all countries: stay at home as much as possible, don't go out in the street, don't shake hands with anyone," said Laporte. "If you go to the supermarket and you see someone you know, say hello to them, but don't shake their hands or get close to them." Laporte said he was worried about City's ban from European football for two years for breaching financial fairplay rules, although the club has appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). “We are waiting for a final decision," said Laporte "We are going to see what happens next season. "Obviously it would hurt us a lot if we aren't in the Champions League next season. "I am very happy here at Manchester City. I am enjoying my football here. We are doing great things here. In the last two years we have won eight trophies."

Home comforts no excuse for slacking off, says Man City's Aymeric Laporte

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