There has been a lot of talks surrounding split captaincy in the Indian cricket team. While Virat Kohli has done tremendously well in leading the Men in Blue across formats, there have been calls to make Rohit Sharma the skipper of the T20I side. Former chairman of selectors – MSK Prasad – was of the view that there’s no point in the change of captaincy as leadership brings the best of Kohli. And now Kohli’s childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma has responded to the calls that the Indian cricket team should adopt to the split captaincy system which has seen the likes of Australia and England reach greater heights.

Rajkumar opined that split captaincy culture is not there in Indian cricket while adding as long as Kohli is capable of leading the team and is performing well at the same time, then he should continue leading Team India across formats. However, Rajkumar did praise Rohit for his captaincy in the Indian Premier League for Mumbai Indians.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/team-india-cant-look-beyond-ms-dhoni-if-he-is-fit-and-firing-wasim-jaffer-287325">Team India can't look beyond MS Dhoni if he is fit and firing: Wasim Jaffer</a>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">"I don't think there is split captaincy culture here"</h2>

“As long as Virat is capable and if the team is doing well in all three formats......I don't think there is split captaincy culture here (Indian cricket). I think that he should continue as long as he is performing well. Rohit Sharma is a brilliant captain. He has won IPL four times and is a brilliant captain in T20 format but as far as captaining India team goes, Virat Kohli is doing well and he should continue as captain,” Rajkumar told a leading media outlet.

Earlier, Prasad had said if the skipper of Indian team is the number one batsman in all formats then there should be no problem in him leading the team while adding that Kohli’s strategies have worked wonders for the Men in Blue in all formats of the game.

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>

“I don't agree with it (having different captains in different formats). Virat loves captaincy and captaincy brings best out of Virat. His performances haven't dropped because of captaincy. And when our captain is number 1 batsman in all formats......what's the problem? He has been coming up world-class performances across formats. His strategy is working well in all formats,” Prasad had earlier said.

Meanwhile, with the cricketing action coming to an unusual halt due to the novel coronavirus, it remains to be seen when the matches resume in the gentlemen’s game. 
<o:p></o:p>

There has been a lot of talks surrounding split captaincy in the Indian cricket team. While Virat Kohli has done tremendously well in leading the Men in Blue across formats, there have been calls to make Rohit Sharma the skipper of the T20I side.

There has been a lot of talks surrounding split captaincy in the Indian cricket team. While Virat Kohli has done tremendously well in leading the Men in Blue across formats, there have been calls to make Rohit Sharma the skipper of the T20I side. Former chairman of selectors – MSK Prasad – was of the view that there’s no point in the change of captaincy as leadership brings the best of Kohli. And now Kohli’s childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma has responded to the calls that the Indian cricket team should adopt to the split captaincy system which has seen the likes of Australia and England reach greater heights. Rajkumar opined that split captaincy culture is not there in Indian cricket while adding as long as Kohli is capable of leading the team and is performing well at the same time, then he should continue leading Team India across formats. However, Rajkumar did praise Rohit for his captaincy in the Indian Premier League for Mumbai Indians. ALSO READ: Team India can't look beyond MS Dhoni if he is fit and firing: Wasim Jaffer "I don't think there is split captaincy culture here" “As long as Virat is capable and if the team is doing well in all three formats......I don't think there is split captaincy culture here (Indian cricket). I think that he should continue as long as he is performing well. Rohit Sharma is a brilliant captain. He has won IPL four times and is a brilliant captain in T20 format but as far as captaining India team goes, Virat Kohli is doing well and he should continue as captain,” Rajkumar told a leading media outlet. Earlier, Prasad had said if the skipper of Indian team is the number one batsman in all formats then there should be no problem in him leading the team while adding that Kohli’s strategies have worked wonders for the Men in Blue in all formats of the game. ALSO READ: Sachin Tendulkar urges everyone to draw lessons from Test cricket to tackle COVID-19 “I don't agree with it (having different captains in different formats). Virat loves captaincy and captaincy brings best out of Virat. His performances haven't dropped because of captaincy. And when our captain is number 1 batsman in all formats......what's the problem? He has been coming up world-class performances across formats. His strategy is working well in all formats,” Prasad had earlier said. Meanwhile, with the cricketing action coming to an unusual halt due to the novel coronavirus, it remains to be seen when the matches resume in the gentlemen’s game.

'Rohit Sharma is a brilliant skipper but...' - Virat Kohli's childhood coach opines on spit captaincy calls in Indian cricket team

With the novel coronavirus spreading like a wildfire, the sporting calendar has been left in doldrums. While all the major tournaments and sporting events have been either cancelled or postponed, all eyes are on the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, which has been suspended until April 15. Former India captain and one of the finest wicket-keepers, MS Dhoni was supposed to make his comeback to the cricket field in the cash-rich tournament but the suspension and the current situation surrounding the COVID-19 has shredded everything into pieces.&nbsp;

Former India opener and recently-retired, Wasim Jaffer reckons that if Dhoni is fit and firing then Team India can’t ignore the veteran gloveman as the domestic legend said that Dhoni will be an asset behind the stumps and can also bat lower down the order. Jaffer further said that Dhoni’s presence will take the pressure off from KL Rahul and the Men in Blue can even try in Rishabh Pant in the playing XI in case they want to have a left-handed batsman in the playing combination.

“If Dhoni is fit and in form I think we can't look beyond him as he'll be an asset behind the stumps and also lower down the order. It'll take the pressure of keeping off Rahul and India can play Pant as a batsman too if they want a lefty. #Dhoni #MSDhoni #IPL2020,” Jaffer tweeted.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
If Dhoni is fit and in form I think we can't look beyond him as he'll be an asset behind the stumps and also lower down the order. It'll take the pressure of keeping off Rahul and India can play Pant as a batsman too if they want a lefty. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Dhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Dhoni</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MSDhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MSDhoni</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2020</a> <a href="https://t.co/6ndDfdhkap">pic.twitter.com/6ndDfdhkap</a>
— Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) <a href="https://twitter.com/WasimJaffer14/status/1240165242140672000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

However, with the IPL 2020 getting suspended with its future under dark clouds, it remains to be seen if Dhoni can make his highly-anticipated return to the cricket field in time. While BCCI remains optimistic of conducting the cash-rich tournament after April 15, the situation surrounding the COVID-19 has been growing worse with each passing day.&nbsp;

Dhoni last played for Team India in the semi-final of the ICC World Cup 2019 where the Men in Blue suffered a crushing defeat to New Zealand. Since then, Dhoni has been on a self-imposed sabbatical from the gentlemen’s game. 
&nbsp;

With the novel coronavirus spreading like a wildfire, the sporting calendar has been left in doldrums. While all the major tournaments and sporting events have been either cancelled or postponed, all eyes are on the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, which has been suspended until April 15.

With the novel coronavirus spreading like a wildfire, the sporting calendar has been left in doldrums. While all the major tournaments and sporting events have been either cancelled or postponed, all eyes are on the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, which has been suspended until April 15. Former India captain and one of the finest wicket-keepers, MS Dhoni was supposed to make his comeback to the cricket field in the cash-rich tournament but the suspension and the current situation surrounding the COVID-19 has shredded everything into pieces. Former India opener and recently-retired, Wasim Jaffer reckons that if Dhoni is fit and firing then Team India can’t ignore the veteran gloveman as the domestic legend said that Dhoni will be an asset behind the stumps and can also bat lower down the order. Jaffer further said that Dhoni’s presence will take the pressure off from KL Rahul and the Men in Blue can even try in Rishabh Pant in the playing XI in case they want to have a left-handed batsman in the playing combination. “If Dhoni is fit and in form I think we can't look beyond him as he'll be an asset behind the stumps and also lower down the order. It'll take the pressure of keeping off Rahul and India can play Pant as a batsman too if they want a lefty. #Dhoni #MSDhoni #IPL2020,” Jaffer tweeted. If Dhoni is fit and in form I think we can't look beyond him as he'll be an asset behind the stumps and also lower down the order. It'll take the pressure of keeping off Rahul and India can play Pant as a batsman too if they want a lefty. #Dhoni #MSDhoni #IPL2020 pic.twitter.com/6ndDfdhkap — Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) March 18, 2020 × However, with the IPL 2020 getting suspended with its future under dark clouds, it remains to be seen if Dhoni can make his highly-anticipated return to the cricket field in time. While BCCI remains optimistic of conducting the cash-rich tournament after April 15, the situation surrounding the COVID-19 has been growing worse with each passing day. Dhoni last played for Team India in the semi-final of the ICC World Cup 2019 where the Men in Blue suffered a crushing defeat to New Zealand. Since then, Dhoni has been on a self-imposed sabbatical from the gentlemen’s game.

Team India can't look beyond MS Dhoni if he is fit and firing: Wasim Jaffer

The novel coronavirus has taken the entire world under its dreaded wings. In India, the total number of positive cases of COVID-19 stand at 166 as of Thursday morning. Due to the deadly virus, the entire sporting calendar has been shredded into pieces with all the high profile tournaments getting either cancelled or postponed. Former Indian cricketer and a legend of the gentlemen’s game Sachin Tendulkar on Thursday expressed his emotions in this dire situation as he asked everyone to draw lessons from Test cricket.&nbsp;

Tendulkar said that Test cricket always rewards players for respecting what they don’t understand while adding the longest and oldest format of the game makes one value the virtue of patience. The Little Master further said that that defence becomes the best form of attack when the conditions are tough for a batsman in Test cricket as he urged everyone to remain patient and be on the back-foot.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-australia-looking-forward-to-hold-this-years-icc-t20-world-cup-as-per-schedule-287294">Cricket Australia looking forward to hold this year's ICC T20 World Cup as per schedule</a>

“Cricket is a unique sport. Most sports compete against other sports for fans’ attention, but cricket competes with ever-evolving versions of itself. There has been much debate about the relevance of Test Cricket in the fast-paced T20 world. While the world battles the Covid-19 pandemic, this is probably the time for all of us to draw lessons from the grand old format of the game,” Tendulkar wrote in a column for a leading daily.

“Test cricket rewards you for respecting what you don’t understand. It makes you value the virtue of patience. When you don’t understand the pitch conditions or the bowler, defence becomes the best form of attack,” Tendulkar added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/la-liga-club-alaves-report-15-positive-tests-for-coronavirus-287279">La Liga club Alaves report 15 positive tests for coronavirus</a>

Regarded as one of the greatest batsmen of all time, Tendulkar further said that he never thought he would witness anything like this in his entire life.&nbsp;However, the Master Blaster added that like in Test cricket, it is about partnership and teamwork, and that is what everyone needs to do in a bid to defeat the novel coronavirus.

“Patience is what we require now, if we have to defend well. In my entire life as a professional cricketer and beyond, I never thought I would see anything like this. Cricket in India and globally has come to a complete standstill,” Tendulkar advised.

“To use a cricketing metaphor, while individual brilliance can help a team in shorter formats of the game, in Test cricket it is all about partnerships and teamwork. If a batter faces the easy overs and keeps letting partners take on the menacing bowlers, then he or she may score runs and remain unbeaten, but the innings will collapse. This is a valuable lesson for us to learn from,” Sachin further wrote in the column.

While the situation continues to deteriorate with each passing day, the medical authorities are doing their best to curb the situation. However, the responsibility lies on the hands of respective individuals to follow the advisory and maintain social distancing and self-isolation as much as possible.&nbsp; 
 
<o:p></o:p>

<o:p></o:p>

The novel coronavirus has taken the entire world under its dreaded wings. In India, the total number of positive cases of COVID-19 stand at 166 as of Thursday morning.

The novel coronavirus has taken the entire world under its dreaded wings. In India, the total number of positive cases of COVID-19 stand at 166 as of Thursday morning. Due to the deadly virus, the entire sporting calendar has been shredded into pieces with all the high profile tournaments getting either cancelled or postponed. Former Indian cricketer and a legend of the gentlemen’s game Sachin Tendulkar on Thursday expressed his emotions in this dire situation as he asked everyone to draw lessons from Test cricket. Tendulkar said that Test cricket always rewards players for respecting what they don’t understand while adding the longest and oldest format of the game makes one value the virtue of patience. The Little Master further said that that defence becomes the best form of attack when the conditions are tough for a batsman in Test cricket as he urged everyone to remain patient and be on the back-foot. ALSO READ: Cricket Australia looking forward to hold this year's ICC T20 World Cup as per schedule “Cricket is a unique sport. Most sports compete against other sports for fans’ attention, but cricket competes with ever-evolving versions of itself. There has been much debate about the relevance of Test Cricket in the fast-paced T20 world. While the world battles the Covid-19 pandemic, this is probably the time for all of us to draw lessons from the grand old format of the game,” Tendulkar wrote in a column for a leading daily. “Test cricket rewards you for respecting what you don’t understand. It makes you value the virtue of patience. When you don’t understand the pitch conditions or the bowler, defence becomes the best form of attack,” Tendulkar added. ALSO READ: La Liga club Alaves report 15 positive tests for coronavirus Regarded as one of the greatest batsmen of all time, Tendulkar further said that he never thought he would witness anything like this in his entire life. However, the Master Blaster added that like in Test cricket, it is about partnership and teamwork, and that is what everyone needs to do in a bid to defeat the novel coronavirus. “Patience is what we require now, if we have to defend well. In my entire life as a professional cricketer and beyond, I never thought I would see anything like this. Cricket in India and globally has come to a complete standstill,” Tendulkar advised. “To use a cricketing metaphor, while individual brilliance can help a team in shorter formats of the game, in Test cricket it is all about partnerships and teamwork. If a batter faces the easy overs and keeps letting partners take on the menacing bowlers, then he or she may score runs and remain unbeaten, but the innings will collapse. This is a valuable lesson for us to learn from,” Sachin further wrote in the column. While the situation continues to deteriorate with each passing day, the medical authorities are doing their best to curb the situation. However, the responsibility lies on the hands of respective individuals to follow the advisory and maintain social distancing and self-isolation as much as possible.

Sachin Tendulkar urges everyone to draw lessons from Test cricket to tackle COVID-19

Former Nigeria international John Obi Mikel has quit Turkish football club Trabzonspor, the team said, after the former Chelsea midfielder said he did not want to play as the new coronavirus spread worldwide.

"The contract has been ended by mutual agreement with John Obi Mikel," Trabzonspor said in a statement late Tuesday.

The deal between the player and the team had begun on June 30 last year and was meant to last until May 31, 2021.

He criticised the Turkish Football Federation's (TFF) move to let Super League matches continue without spectators, unlike in other countries where games have been suspended.

"There is more to life than football. I do not feel comfortable and don't want to play football in this situation," Obi Mikel wrote on Instagram on Saturday.

"Everyone should be home with their families and loved ones in this critical time. Season should be cancelled as the world is facing such turbulent times," he added.

The 32-year-old played for Chelsea for over 10 years. He retired from international duty after last year's Africa Cup of Nations after making 89 appearances for Nigeria.

The TFF on Tuesday rejected growing calls for matches to be suspended.

Among those opposed to any delay of Super League matches is Trabzonspor chief Ahmet Agaoglu who said any decision to cancel would lead to a rise in divorces.

Trabzonspor -- one of the major non-Istanbul-based clubs -- are currently at the top of Turkey's Super League.&nbsp;

Turkey confirmed its first novel coronavirus-related death on Tuesday as the number of cases in the country rose to 98.

Former Nigeria international John Obi Mikel has quit Turkish football club Trabzonspor, the team said, after the former Chelsea midfielder said he did not want to play as the new coronavirus spread worldwide.

Former Nigeria international John Obi Mikel has quit Turkish football club Trabzonspor, the team said, after the former Chelsea midfielder said he did not want to play as the new coronavirus spread worldwide. "The contract has been ended by mutual agreement with John Obi Mikel," Trabzonspor said in a statement late Tuesday. The deal between the player and the team had begun on June 30 last year and was meant to last until May 31, 2021. He criticised the Turkish Football Federation's (TFF) move to let Super League matches continue without spectators, unlike in other countries where games have been suspended. "There is more to life than football. I do not feel comfortable and don't want to play football in this situation," Obi Mikel wrote on Instagram on Saturday. "Everyone should be home with their families and loved ones in this critical time. Season should be cancelled as the world is facing such turbulent times," he added. The 32-year-old played for Chelsea for over 10 years. He retired from international duty after last year's Africa Cup of Nations after making 89 appearances for Nigeria. The TFF on Tuesday rejected growing calls for matches to be suspended. Among those opposed to any delay of Super League matches is Trabzonspor chief Ahmet Agaoglu who said any decision to cancel would lead to a rise in divorces. Trabzonspor -- one of the major non-Istanbul-based clubs -- are currently at the top of Turkey's Super League. Turkey confirmed its first novel coronavirus-related death on Tuesday as the number of cases in the country rose to 98.

Footballer John Obi Mikel leaves Turkish team over coronavirus fears

FIFA president Gianni Infantino on Tuesday proposed delaying next year's revamped 24-team Club World Cup in China after UEFA postponed the European Championship until 2021 because of the coronavirus pandemic.

South America's equivalent of the Euros, the Copa America, also scheduled for this June and July, has also been postponed by a year, ensuring European-based players will be free to finish the season with their clubs.

Moving the tournaments by a year puts them on a collision course with FIFA and its president Infantino, who had planned to stage the inaugural edition of his highly lucrative Club World Cup in June and July next year in China.

Infantino said in a statement he would hold a conference call with FIFA officials on Wednesday, during which he will suggest "to decide at a later stage -- when there is more clarity on the situation -- when to reschedule the new FIFA Club World Cup, later in 2021, in 2022 or in 2023."

He also said FIFA will plan "to discuss with the Chinese FA and the Chinese Government the postponement of the new FIFA Club World Cup from 2021 in order to minimise any negative impact."

UEFA said the new proposed dates for the tournament were June 11 to July 11 next year, as Euro 2020 becomes Euro 2021.

This year's tournament was due to be held in 12 countries. There is no suggestion the format or number of venues will change.

"The world is facing an unprecedented health challenge and clearly a global and collective response is needed," said Infantino.

"Cooperation, mutual respect and understanding must be the guiding principles for all decision makers to have in mind at this crucial moment in time.

"Particularly in football, finding appropriate and fair solutions at global level is imperative."

Infantino added FIFA would pledge $10 million (9.1 million euros) to the World Health Organization's COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund.

The outbreak, which first emerged in China late last year, has quickly marched across the globe, infecting more than 180,000 people and killing over 7,000.&nbsp;

FIFA president Gianni Infantino on Tuesday proposed delaying next year's revamped 24-team Club World Cup in China after UEFA postponed the European Championship until 2021 because of the coronavirus pandemic.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino on Tuesday proposed delaying next year's revamped 24-team Club World Cup in China after UEFA postponed the European Championship until 2021 because of the coronavirus pandemic. South America's equivalent of the Euros, the Copa America, also scheduled for this June and July, has also been postponed by a year, ensuring European-based players will be free to finish the season with their clubs. Moving the tournaments by a year puts them on a collision course with FIFA and its president Infantino, who had planned to stage the inaugural edition of his highly lucrative Club World Cup in June and July next year in China. Infantino said in a statement he would hold a conference call with FIFA officials on Wednesday, during which he will suggest "to decide at a later stage -- when there is more clarity on the situation -- when to reschedule the new FIFA Club World Cup, later in 2021, in 2022 or in 2023." He also said FIFA will plan "to discuss with the Chinese FA and the Chinese Government the postponement of the new FIFA Club World Cup from 2021 in order to minimise any negative impact." UEFA said the new proposed dates for the tournament were June 11 to July 11 next year, as Euro 2020 becomes Euro 2021. This year's tournament was due to be held in 12 countries. There is no suggestion the format or number of venues will change. "The world is facing an unprecedented health challenge and clearly a global and collective response is needed," said Infantino. "Cooperation, mutual respect and understanding must be the guiding principles for all decision makers to have in mind at this crucial moment in time. "Particularly in football, finding appropriate and fair solutions at global level is imperative." Infantino added FIFA would pledge $10 million (9.1 million euros) to the World Health Organization's COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund. The outbreak, which first emerged in China late last year, has quickly marched across the globe, infecting more than 180,000 people and killing over 7,000.

Infantino offers to move Club World Cup to accommodate Euro in 2021

Russia may have suspended all basketball, football and ice hockey fixtures over the coronavirus pandemic, but sports fans may find solace in a different competition beginning this week: chess.

The 2020 Candidates Tournament opened in a luxury hotel in the Urals city of Yekaterinburg this week despite a large series of suspensions of sporting events in Russia and Europe to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Europe's football governing body UEFA said Tuesday it was postponing the EURO 2020 championship involving 24 nations due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The chess tournament that began Monday sees eight players compete for 500,000 euros ($545,000 and the chance to face off against the world number one, 29-year-old Magnus Carlsen from Norway, who has held the world's number 1 place since 2013.&nbsp;

The games between players from countries including the United States and China are being broadcast on a YouTube channel run by the International Chess Federation (FIDE) with commentary in Chinese, Russian and English.

FIDE has banned live spectators to limit the risks linked to the pandemic, but reported on Twitter Tuesday that one million virtual spectators had tuned in from China.&nbsp;

It also posted pictures of competitors touching elbows before a game rather than shaking hands.

In March, the organisation addressed concerns over the virus saying that postponement was "not legally and practically feasible," unless ordered by the Russian authorities.

Photographers are only allowed "a distance of at least 6 metres from the players," said FIDE, one of the last international sports organisations where Russia maintains an influence inherited from the Soviet Union.

"Being an elite, 8-player tournament, the reduced number of participants allows us to monitor their personal circumstances, health status, and provide them personal attention," the tournament said.&nbsp;

Moscow on Wednesday reported 147 cases of coronavirus with no deaths, according to official figures.&nbsp;

Russia has also closed its borders to foreigners on Wednesday until May 1 to slow the spread of the virus.

Russia may have suspended all basketball, football and ice hockey fixtures over the coronavirus pandemic, but sports fans may find solace in a different competition beginning this week: chess.

Russia may have suspended all basketball, football and ice hockey fixtures over the coronavirus pandemic, but sports fans may find solace in a different competition beginning this week: chess. The 2020 Candidates Tournament opened in a luxury hotel in the Urals city of Yekaterinburg this week despite a large series of suspensions of sporting events in Russia and Europe to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Europe's football governing body UEFA said Tuesday it was postponing the EURO 2020 championship involving 24 nations due to the coronavirus pandemic. The chess tournament that began Monday sees eight players compete for 500,000 euros ($545,000 and the chance to face off against the world number one, 29-year-old Magnus Carlsen from Norway, who has held the world's number 1 place since 2013. The games between players from countries including the United States and China are being broadcast on a YouTube channel run by the International Chess Federation (FIDE) with commentary in Chinese, Russian and English. FIDE has banned live spectators to limit the risks linked to the pandemic, but reported on Twitter Tuesday that one million virtual spectators had tuned in from China. It also posted pictures of competitors touching elbows before a game rather than shaking hands. In March, the organisation addressed concerns over the virus saying that postponement was "not legally and practically feasible," unless ordered by the Russian authorities. Photographers are only allowed "a distance of at least 6 metres from the players," said FIDE, one of the last international sports organisations where Russia maintains an influence inherited from the Soviet Union. "Being an elite, 8-player tournament, the reduced number of participants allows us to monitor their personal circumstances, health status, and provide them personal attention," the tournament said. Moscow on Wednesday reported 147 cases of coronavirus with no deaths, according to official figures. Russia has also closed its borders to foreigners on Wednesday until May 1 to slow the spread of the virus.

Missing sports on TV? Russians still have chess

The transitional phase in South African cricket has seen the Proteas go through a topsy-turvy curve in the last year or so. While the likes of Hashim Amla, Imran Tahir, JP Duminy are some of the players to have bowed out of the gentlemen's game since the conclusion of ICC World Cup 2019, but what had hurt Proteas the most was the retirement of batting maestro AB de Villiers back in 2018.

There has been plenty of talks surrounding de Villiers making his international comeback for South Africa in the forthcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2020 scheduled to be hosted by Australia in October 2020. While head coach Mark Boucher and captain Quinton de Kock have often opened up about their willingness to bring Mr 360 back in the squad, nothing has been done officially.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/south-african-cricketers-in-self-isolation-after-aborted-tour-of-india-287218">South African cricketers in self-isolation after aborted tour of India</a>

Talking about his comeback plan to the international circuit, de Villiers said he will sit down with the team management after the conclusion of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 while adding his complete focus is on helping Royal Challengers Bangalore.

“Let’s wait and see what happens. My focus is on the Indian Premier League at the moment and helping Royal Challengers Bangalore realise our full potential. Then we will sit down and have a look at the rest of the year and see what is possible,” de Villiers said to a leading news agency.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/planet-is-asking-us-to-be-more-responsible-towards-society-ravichandran-ashwin-appeals-for-social-distancing-to-curb-coronavirus-287203">Planet is asking us to be more responsible towards society: Ravichandran Ashwin appeals for social distancing to curb coronavirus</a>

While de Villiers did try and make a comeback in the ICC World Cup 2019 but his proposal was rejected by the South Africa team management and eventually the Proteas experienced a torrid outing in the quadrennial event. Touching upon his decision to retire early in his career, de Villiers said he wanted to see his wife and two young sons more and strike a balance between family and cricket.

“Each player must consider his own circumstances and make his own decision. I reached a point where I wanted to see more of my wife and two young sons and seek a reasonable balance between family and cricket. The mental and physical demands on the leading players are massive these days, but each player must decide what he can and can’t do,” de Villiers said.

The transitional phase in South African cricket has seen the Proteas go through a topsy-turvy curve in the last year or so. While the likes of Hashim Amla, Imran Tahir, JP Duminy are some of the players to have bowed out of the gentlemen's game since the conclusion of ICC World Cup 2019, but what had hurt Proteas the most was the retirement of batting maestro AB de Villiers back in 2018.

The transitional phase in South African cricket has seen the Proteas go through a topsy-turvy curve in the last year or so. While the likes of Hashim Amla, Imran Tahir, JP Duminy are some of the players to have bowed out of the gentlemen's game since the conclusion of ICC World Cup 2019, but what had hurt Proteas the most was the retirement of batting maestro AB de Villiers back in 2018. There has been plenty of talks surrounding de Villiers making his international comeback for South Africa in the forthcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2020 scheduled to be hosted by Australia in October 2020. While head coach Mark Boucher and captain Quinton de Kock have often opened up about their willingness to bring Mr 360 back in the squad, nothing has been done officially. ALSO READ: South African cricketers in self-isolation after aborted tour of India Talking about his comeback plan to the international circuit, de Villiers said he will sit down with the team management after the conclusion of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 while adding his complete focus is on helping Royal Challengers Bangalore. “Let’s wait and see what happens. My focus is on the Indian Premier League at the moment and helping Royal Challengers Bangalore realise our full potential. Then we will sit down and have a look at the rest of the year and see what is possible,” de Villiers said to a leading news agency. ALSO READ: Planet is asking us to be more responsible towards society: Ravichandran Ashwin appeals for social distancing to curb coronavirus While de Villiers did try and make a comeback in the ICC World Cup 2019 but his proposal was rejected by the South Africa team management and eventually the Proteas experienced a torrid outing in the quadrennial event. Touching upon his decision to retire early in his career, de Villiers said he wanted to see his wife and two young sons more and strike a balance between family and cricket. “Each player must consider his own circumstances and make his own decision. I reached a point where I wanted to see more of my wife and two young sons and seek a reasonable balance between family and cricket. The mental and physical demands on the leading players are massive these days, but each player must decide what he can and can’t do,” de Villiers said.

'My focus is on...' - AB de Villiers breaks his silence on South Africa comeback

Members of the South African cricket team have been told to undergo a 14-day period of self-isolation and social distancing to prevent the spread of coronavirus following their return from an aborted tour of India.

The players arrived back in South Africa on Wednesday ten days after departing on a tour during which they played no cricket.

The first of three scheduled one-day internationals was abandoned without a ball bowled because of rain and the remaining two were cancelled.

Dr Shuaib Manjra, Cricket South Africa’s medical officer, who accompanied the team on the tour, during which they stayed in or travelled through Dubai, Delhi, Dharamsala, Lucknow and Kolkata, said the cancellation had been decided because of the rapid change in the global coronavirus situation.

“CSA had engaged in a risk assessment before the tour,” said Dr Manjra. “We deemed the risk to be very low. While on tour the world became a different place and we had to take cognisance of the fact that there was a change in the global environment.”

He said the risks were re-assessed, especially the possibility of borders being closed. “Ultimately the players’ frame of mind was the determining factor,” he said, adding the players had been concerned about their families and what was happening in South Africa.

Dr Manjra said the team had effectively been in isolation in India and had travelled on chartered flights and coaches in a sanitised environment.

But he said it had been decided to follow expert guidance on prevention of the spread of the virus.

“We’ve educated the players about the disease,” he said. “We’ve recommended that all players self-isolate and social-distance themselves for a minimum of 14 days to protect people around them and their communities.”

England’s tour of Sri Lanka has also been postponed as the coronavirus pandemic has virtually wiped out the global sporting calendar for the next few months.

Members of the South African cricket team have been told to undergo a 14-day period of self-isolation and social distancing to prevent the spread of coronavirus following their return from an aborted tour of India.

Members of the South African cricket team have been told to undergo a 14-day period of self-isolation and social distancing to prevent the spread of coronavirus following their return from an aborted tour of India. The players arrived back in South Africa on Wednesday ten days after departing on a tour during which they played no cricket. The first of three scheduled one-day internationals was abandoned without a ball bowled because of rain and the remaining two were cancelled. Dr Shuaib Manjra, Cricket South Africa’s medical officer, who accompanied the team on the tour, during which they stayed in or travelled through Dubai, Delhi, Dharamsala, Lucknow and Kolkata, said the cancellation had been decided because of the rapid change in the global coronavirus situation. “CSA had engaged in a risk assessment before the tour,” said Dr Manjra. “We deemed the risk to be very low. While on tour the world became a different place and we had to take cognisance of the fact that there was a change in the global environment.” He said the risks were re-assessed, especially the possibility of borders being closed. “Ultimately the players’ frame of mind was the determining factor,” he said, adding the players had been concerned about their families and what was happening in South Africa. Dr Manjra said the team had effectively been in isolation in India and had travelled on chartered flights and coaches in a sanitised environment. But he said it had been decided to follow expert guidance on prevention of the spread of the virus. “We’ve educated the players about the disease,” he said. “We’ve recommended that all players self-isolate and social-distance themselves for a minimum of 14 days to protect people around them and their communities.” England’s tour of Sri Lanka has also been postponed as the coronavirus pandemic has virtually wiped out the global sporting calendar for the next few months.

South African cricketers in self-isolation after aborted tour of India

India's former world number one Saina Nehwal said officials had put profits ahead of player welfare by allowing the All England badminton championship to go ahead last weekend despite the coronavirus pandemic.

The competition was one of the few international sporting events to conclude Sunday amid the deadly outbreak, which has claimed thousands of lives across the globe.

"Only thing I can think of is that rather than the players welfare n feelings, financial reasons were given more importance," Nehwal, who won bronze at the 2012 London Olympics, wrote on Twitter.

"Otherwise there was no other reason for the #AllEnglandOpen2020 to go on last week."

Denmark's Viktor Axelsen clinched his first All England title, while&nbsp;Tai Tzu-ying of Taiwan regained the women's singles crown.

Nehwal bowed out of the event in the first round and is racing against time to qualify for the Olympics scheduled to begin on July 24.

Several players took part in the All England Open -- an Olympic qualification event -- and Nehwal's husband, Indian player Parupalli Kashyap, said the players were "under pressure" to play.

The Badminton World Federation (BWF) has suspended all tournaments until April 12 due to the virus, badly affecting Olympic qualifying which closes on April 30

India's former world number one Saina Nehwal said officials had put profits ahead of player welfare by allowing the All England badminton championship to go ahead last weekend despite the coronavirus pandemic.

India's former world number one Saina Nehwal said officials had put profits ahead of player welfare by allowing the All England badminton championship to go ahead last weekend despite the coronavirus pandemic. The competition was one of the few international sporting events to conclude Sunday amid the deadly outbreak, which has claimed thousands of lives across the globe. "Only thing I can think of is that rather than the players welfare n feelings, financial reasons were given more importance," Nehwal, who won bronze at the 2012 London Olympics, wrote on Twitter. "Otherwise there was no other reason for the #AllEnglandOpen2020 to go on last week." Denmark's Viktor Axelsen clinched his first All England title, while Tai Tzu-ying of Taiwan regained the women's singles crown. Nehwal bowed out of the event in the first round and is racing against time to qualify for the Olympics scheduled to begin on July 24. Several players took part in the All England Open -- an Olympic qualification event -- and Nehwal's husband, Indian player Parupalli Kashyap, said the players were "under pressure" to play. The Badminton World Federation (BWF) has suspended all tournaments until April 12 due to the virus, badly affecting Olympic qualifying which closes on April 30

All England badminton chose finances over players welfare: Saina Nehwal

At least 51 positive cases of coronavirus have been reported in India including 122 Indian nationals and 25 foreign nationals. The COVID-19 continues to spread like a wildfire and that has left shredded the daily routine of everyone into pieces. While the sporting world continues to stay grounded with an unusual halt&nbsp;due to the coronavirus pandemic, veteran Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin took to Twitter to urge his fellow citizens to follow all the steps to contain the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

Ashwin has been one of the vocal cricketers in highlighting the threat posed by the deadly COVID-19. &nbsp;Ashwin, in his tweet, wrote that the planet is challenging the human race and is asking everyone to be more responsible towards society. The Indian spinner further said that it is time to be honest and confine ourselves for the sake of other people around us.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/monkeygate-was-probably-the-lowest-ricky-ponting-reveals-lowest-point-of-his-career-287178">'Monkeygate was probably the lowest' - Ricky Ponting reveals lowest point of his career</a>

“The planet is challenging the human race, asking us if we can be responsible towards the society, it’s asking us if we can be honest and confine ourselves for another person's sake. Thinking face some very difficult questions to answer. Stay safe and answer the questions Folded hands#coronavirusindia,” Ashwin tweeted on Wednesday.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The planet is challenging the human race, asking us if we can be responsible towards the society, it’s asking us if we can be honest and confine ourselves for another persons sake. some very difficult questions to answer. Stay safe and answer the questions <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/coronavirusindia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#coronavirusindia</a>
— Ashwin Ravichandran (@ashwinravi99) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99/status/1240215473595117570?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/guys-wash-your-hands-kl-rahul-reminds-shreyas-iyer-hardik-pandya-about-health-advisory-on-coronavirus-287159">'Guys, wash your hands' - KL Rahul reminds Shreyas Iyer, Hardik Pandya about health advisory on coronavirus</a>

As the world continues to fight against the dreaded coronavirus, it is suggested by all medical experts to stay confined and maintain social distancing. The sporting calendar has been torn apart by the novel COVID-19 with almost every major leagues and tournaments, across sports, getting either cancelled or postponed.

At least 51 positive cases of coronavirus have been reported in India including 122 Indian nationals and 25 foreign nationals. The COVID-19 continues to spread like a wildfire and that has left shredded the daily routine of everyone into pieces.

At least 51 positive cases of coronavirus have been reported in India including 122 Indian nationals and 25 foreign nationals. The COVID-19 continues to spread like a wildfire and that has left shredded the daily routine of everyone into pieces. While the sporting world continues to stay grounded with an unusual halt due to the coronavirus pandemic, veteran Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin took to Twitter to urge his fellow citizens to follow all the steps to contain the coronavirus pandemic. Ashwin has been one of the vocal cricketers in highlighting the threat posed by the deadly COVID-19. Ashwin, in his tweet, wrote that the planet is challenging the human race and is asking everyone to be more responsible towards society. The Indian spinner further said that it is time to be honest and confine ourselves for the sake of other people around us. ALSO READ: 'Monkeygate was probably the lowest' - Ricky Ponting reveals lowest point of his career “The planet is challenging the human race, asking us if we can be responsible towards the society, it’s asking us if we can be honest and confine ourselves for another person's sake. Thinking face some very difficult questions to answer. Stay safe and answer the questions Folded hands#coronavirusindia,” Ashwin tweeted on Wednesday. The planet is challenging the human race, asking us if we can be responsible towards the society, it’s asking us if we can be honest and confine ourselves for another persons sake. some very difficult questions to answer. Stay safe and answer the questions #coronavirusindia — Ashwin Ravichandran (@ashwinravi99) March 18, 2020 × ALSO READ: 'Guys, wash your hands' - KL Rahul reminds Shreyas Iyer, Hardik Pandya about health advisory on coronavirus As the world continues to fight against the dreaded coronavirus, it is suggested by all medical experts to stay confined and maintain social distancing. The sporting calendar has been torn apart by the novel COVID-19 with almost every major leagues and tournaments, across sports, getting either cancelled or postponed.

Planet is asking us to be more responsible towards society: Ravichandran Ashwin appeals for social distancing to curb coronavirus

The 2008 India's tour of Australia which was infamously rocked by the Monkeygate episode, which put a black spot in the relationship between two cricketing giants. The verbal tussle between Harbhajan Singh and Andrew Symonds had put the entire series in jeopardy. While Ricky Ponting is hailed as one of the most successful captains of all time, the former Aussie skipper revealed that the 'Monkeygate' scandal was the lowest point in his career as a captain.

“We all felt let down by the end result (of the Monkeygate controversy). The fact that it got in the way of the way we played our cricket for the next Test match was probably the most disappointing thing,” Ponting told on a podcast conducted by a leading media outlet.

Ponting further said that Australia were heavy favourites to win the Perth Test but lost it which made the entire environment in and out of the Australian dressing room worse.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/guys-wash-your-hands-kl-rahul-reminds-shreyas-iyer-hardik-pandya-about-health-advisory-on-coronavirus-287159">'Guys, wash your hands' - KL Rahul reminds Shreyas Iyer, Hardik Pandya about health advisory on coronavirus</a>

“So we go over there and India at Perth is game we expect to win and then we lost the match and after that, the next few days things just got worse and worse,” Ponting said.

<h2>"Monkeygate was probably the lowest"</h2>

“Monkeygate was probably the lowest (point in career as captain). Losing the 2005 Ashes series was tough but I was in full control of that. But I wasn’t in full control of what happened during the Monkeygate thing,” he added.

<img alt="Harbhajan Singh, Ricky Ponting (Photo: AFP)" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="cc30263e-4b9f-4ae1-b6e4-c654fecf50c4" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_Hkg982255_0.jpg" />

The former Aussie skipper then revealed that the Monkeygate controversy was a low point in his career because the entire controversy surrounding the episode got dragged on for long.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/coronavirus-pandemic-bcci-looking-to-conduct-ipl-2020-in-july-september-window-287140">Coronavirus pandemic: BCCI looking to conduct IPL 2020 in July-September window</a>

“It was a low point and also because it dragged on for so long. I remember coming off the ground during the Adelaide Test match and speaking to Cricket Australia officials about the case because the hearing was at the end of the Adelaide Test match,” Ponting said.

However, Ponting has already said it several times that he has cleared any remaining rift with Harbhajan, Sachin Tendulkar and Anil Kumble during his stint in the Indian Premier League with Mumbai Indians.

&nbsp;

The 2008 India's tour of Australia which was infamously rocked by the Monkeygate episode, which put a black spot in the relationship between two cricketing giants.

The 2008 India's tour of Australia which was infamously rocked by the Monkeygate episode, which put a black spot in the relationship between two cricketing giants. The verbal tussle between Harbhajan Singh and Andrew Symonds had put the entire series in jeopardy. While Ricky Ponting is hailed as one of the most successful captains of all time, the former Aussie skipper revealed that the 'Monkeygate' scandal was the lowest point in his career as a captain. “We all felt let down by the end result (of the Monkeygate controversy). The fact that it got in the way of the way we played our cricket for the next Test match was probably the most disappointing thing,” Ponting told on a podcast conducted by a leading media outlet. Ponting further said that Australia were heavy favourites to win the Perth Test but lost it which made the entire environment in and out of the Australian dressing room worse. ALSO READ: 'Guys, wash your hands' - KL Rahul reminds Shreyas Iyer, Hardik Pandya about health advisory on coronavirus “So we go over there and India at Perth is game we expect to win and then we lost the match and after that, the next few days things just got worse and worse,” Ponting said. "Monkeygate was probably the lowest" “Monkeygate was probably the lowest (point in career as captain). Losing the 2005 Ashes series was tough but I was in full control of that. But I wasn’t in full control of what happened during the Monkeygate thing,” he added. The former Aussie skipper then revealed that the Monkeygate controversy was a low point in his career because the entire controversy surrounding the episode got dragged on for long. ALSO READ: Coronavirus pandemic: BCCI looking to conduct IPL 2020 in July-September window “It was a low point and also because it dragged on for so long. I remember coming off the ground during the Adelaide Test match and speaking to Cricket Australia officials about the case because the hearing was at the end of the Adelaide Test match,” Ponting said. However, Ponting has already said it several times that he has cleared any remaining rift with Harbhajan, Sachin Tendulkar and Anil Kumble during his stint in the Indian Premier League with Mumbai Indians.

'Monkeygate was probably the lowest' - Ricky Ponting reveals lowest point of his career

The French Open 2020, which was scheduled to be held from May 24 to June 7, has been postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic and will now take place from September 20 to October 4. The organisers of the French Open 2019 said that given the current confinement measures, it is impossible to hold the Grand Slam event as per the original schedule while adding that they have decided to postpone the tournament to ensure the health and safety of everyone involved in organising the tournament.

The new dates of the Rolland-Garros, i.e, September 20 to October 4, means the event will kickstart just a week after the US Open. However, it is highly likely that the US Open 2020 will also get postponed given the current situation surrounding the novel coronavirus.&nbsp;

<h2>Roland-Garros to start in September&nbsp;2020</h2>

"The whole world is affected by the public health crisis connected with COVID-19. In order to ensure the health and safety of everyone involved in organising the tournament, the French Tennis Federation has made the decision to hold the 2020 edition of Roland-Garros from 20th September to 4th October 2020," read a statement.

"In order to act responsibly and protect the health of its employees, service providers, and suppliers during the organisation period, the FFT has chosen the only option that will allow them to maintain the 2020 edition of the tournament while joining the fight against COVID-19."

While the World Health Organisation (WHO) has already declared Europe as the epicenter of the COVID-19, European countries on Tuesday moved into an almost total lockdown in a bid to put a break to the spread of the deadly virus.

"We have made a difficult yet brave decision in this unprecedented situation, which has evolved greatly since last weekend. We are acting responsibly, and must work together in the fight to ensure everybody's health and safety," FFT president Bernard Giudicelli said.

The biggest issue for Roland-Garros will be the availability of star players. The French Open 2020 will collide with a number of tournaments including the Laver Cup where Roger Federer has already committed his presence.

The French Open 2020, which was scheduled to be held from May 24 to June 7, has been postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic and will now take place from September 20 to October 4.

The French Open 2020, which was scheduled to be held from May 24 to June 7, has been postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic and will now take place from September 20 to October 4. The organisers of the French Open 2019 said that given the current confinement measures, it is impossible to hold the Grand Slam event as per the original schedule while adding that they have decided to postpone the tournament to ensure the health and safety of everyone involved in organising the tournament. The new dates of the Rolland-Garros, i.e, September 20 to October 4, means the event will kickstart just a week after the US Open. However, it is highly likely that the US Open 2020 will also get postponed given the current situation surrounding the novel coronavirus. Roland-Garros to start in September 2020 "The whole world is affected by the public health crisis connected with COVID-19. In order to ensure the health and safety of everyone involved in organising the tournament, the French Tennis Federation has made the decision to hold the 2020 edition of Roland-Garros from 20th September to 4th October 2020," read a statement. "In order to act responsibly and protect the health of its employees, service providers, and suppliers during the organisation period, the FFT has chosen the only option that will allow them to maintain the 2020 edition of the tournament while joining the fight against COVID-19." While the World Health Organisation (WHO) has already declared Europe as the epicenter of the COVID-19, European countries on Tuesday moved into an almost total lockdown in a bid to put a break to the spread of the deadly virus. "We have made a difficult yet brave decision in this unprecedented situation, which has evolved greatly since last weekend. We are acting responsibly, and must work together in the fight to ensure everybody's health and safety," FFT president Bernard Giudicelli said. The biggest issue for Roland-Garros will be the availability of star players. The French Open 2020 will collide with a number of tournaments including the Laver Cup where Roger Federer has already committed his presence.

French Open 2020 postponed to September due to coronavirus pandemic

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Subhayan Chakraborty

Home

Live Tv

Latest

World

India

Business

Entertainment

Sports

Opinions

Videos

Photos

Gravitas

Lifestyle

Science

Tech

Rajasthan News in Hindi: In-depth coverage of Rajasthan Crime, Political News, Education, Rajasthan Weather Update and Latest Rajasthan News on Zee News Rajasthan.