Pakistan cricket authorities appeared Thursday to brush off fears for the coronavirus pandemic as it prepared to host several Pakistan Super League matches in the bustling commercial hub of Karachi.&nbsp;

The city of at least 15 million people is set to host five Twenty20 league games starting Thursday evening at the national stadium, which can hold up to 30,000 spectators.&nbsp;

The decision to move ahead with the league comes as anxiety escalated globally about the potential of unchecked transmission of the virus at big sports events.&nbsp;

Sporting events around the world have been cancelled or postponed over the virus, including the suspension of NBA games in North America.

Social media users in Pakistan voiced concerns over authorities continuing to host games despite a rise in coronavirus cases.&nbsp;

"Still trying to understand why PSL hasn't been canceled during a GLOBAL PANDEMIC," tweeted Pakistan novelist Fatima Bhutto.&nbsp;

"World's best sports events are cancelled but in Pakistan flight operations are still going on, PSL is still not banned... Where we're headed?" added Twitter user Asim Siddiq.&nbsp;

However, officials insisted the situation was under control.&nbsp;

In a statement released by the Pakistan Cricket Board, officials encouraged fans attending games to wash their hands and refrain from hugging, shaking hands and spitting.

"We have ensured all kinds of safety measures at the PSL matches, so the people can enjoy cricket," said Murtaza Wahab, the provincial government spokesman.

"Spectators would be scanned and they would be able to wash and sanitise their hands before entering into the stadium."

Pakistan has recorded just 20 confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus -- including several in Karachi -- but no deaths, according to Mumtaz Ali Khan from the National Institute of Health.

However, there are fears that officials have yet to test large swathes of the population in earnest due to a lack of resources and decades of underinvestment in the country’s health sector.

This year’s PSL tournament is the first in the league’s five-year history to in its entirety on home soil.

Previous seasons saw a portion of matches held in the United Arab Emirates over security fears.

Pakistan cricket authorities appeared Thursday to brush off fears for the coronavirus pandemic as it prepared to host several Pakistan Super League matches in the bustling commercial hub of Karachi.

Pakistan cricket authorities appeared Thursday to brush off fears for the coronavirus pandemic as it prepared to host several Pakistan Super League matches in the bustling commercial hub of Karachi. The city of at least 15 million people is set to host five Twenty20 league games starting Thursday evening at the national stadium, which can hold up to 30,000 spectators. The decision to move ahead with the league comes as anxiety escalated globally about the potential of unchecked transmission of the virus at big sports events. Sporting events around the world have been cancelled or postponed over the virus, including the suspension of NBA games in North America. Social media users in Pakistan voiced concerns over authorities continuing to host games despite a rise in coronavirus cases. "Still trying to understand why PSL hasn't been canceled during a GLOBAL PANDEMIC," tweeted Pakistan novelist Fatima Bhutto. "World's best sports events are cancelled but in Pakistan flight operations are still going on, PSL is still not banned... Where we're headed?" added Twitter user Asim Siddiq. However, officials insisted the situation was under control. In a statement released by the Pakistan Cricket Board, officials encouraged fans attending games to wash their hands and refrain from hugging, shaking hands and spitting. "We have ensured all kinds of safety measures at the PSL matches, so the people can enjoy cricket," said Murtaza Wahab, the provincial government spokesman. "Spectators would be scanned and they would be able to wash and sanitise their hands before entering into the stadium." Pakistan has recorded just 20 confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus -- including several in Karachi -- but no deaths, according to Mumtaz Ali Khan from the National Institute of Health. However, there are fears that officials have yet to test large swathes of the population in earnest due to a lack of resources and decades of underinvestment in the country’s health sector. This year’s PSL tournament is the first in the league’s five-year history to in its entirety on home soil. Previous seasons saw a portion of matches held in the United Arab Emirates over security fears.

Pakistan pushes ahead with PSL 2020 despite coronavirus fears

The Day 5 of the Ranji Trophy 2019-20 semi-final between Saurashtra and Bengal is set to be played behind close doors with only players, match officials, accredited media set to be allowed along with select state officials. With the summit clash of Ranji Trophy headed to the final day with an exciting end to the match ready, fans were expected to head to the stadiums to witness an enthralling end to India's premium domestic tournament.

Even though Ranji Trophy hasn't attracted the largest of crowd, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has taken this step as a precautionary measure to stop the spread of the novel coronavirus. At least 71 positive cases have been confirmed in India and with the virus spreading like a wildfire, the BCCI has decided to hold the final of Ranji Trophy 2019-20 behind closed doors.&nbsp;

<h2>"No public will be allowed on the final day"</h2>

"No public will be allowed on the final day. Only the players, match officials and media are allowed," BCCI general manager Saba Karim, who is in charge of domestic cricket, told PTI.

There have been question marks over the future of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 but an official confirmation is expected after IPL governing council meeting on March 14 (Saturday). As per latest reports, close doors matches are a real possibility in the 13th edition of the cash-rich league.

Meanwhile, in Ranji Trophy final between Saurashtra and Bengal, the latter ended Day 4 at 354/6, as many as 71 runs behind Saurashtra's 425 runs in the first innings. With the match heading to a draw, the winner of Ranji Trophy 2019-20 is set to be decided on the basis of first-innings lead which makes the encounter even more fascinating. While Bengal need 71 runs to take a first-innings lead, Saurashtra are four wickets away from putting their hands on the coveted trophy.

Bengal are playing a Ranji Trophy final after 13 years whereas this is Saurashtra's consecutive outing in the summit clash.

The Day 5 of the Ranji Trophy 2019-20 semi-final between Saurashtra and Bengal is set to be played behind close doors with only players, match officials, accredited media set to be allowed along with select state officials.

The Day 5 of the Ranji Trophy 2019-20 semi-final between Saurashtra and Bengal is set to be played behind close doors with only players, match officials, accredited media set to be allowed along with select state officials. With the summit clash of Ranji Trophy headed to the final day with an exciting end to the match ready, fans were expected to head to the stadiums to witness an enthralling end to India's premium domestic tournament. Even though Ranji Trophy hasn't attracted the largest of crowd, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has taken this step as a precautionary measure to stop the spread of the novel coronavirus. At least 71 positive cases have been confirmed in India and with the virus spreading like a wildfire, the BCCI has decided to hold the final of Ranji Trophy 2019-20 behind closed doors. "No public will be allowed on the final day" "No public will be allowed on the final day. Only the players, match officials and media are allowed," BCCI general manager Saba Karim, who is in charge of domestic cricket, told PTI. There have been question marks over the future of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 but an official confirmation is expected after IPL governing council meeting on March 14 (Saturday). As per latest reports, close doors matches are a real possibility in the 13th edition of the cash-rich league. Meanwhile, in Ranji Trophy final between Saurashtra and Bengal, the latter ended Day 4 at 354/6, as many as 71 runs behind Saurashtra's 425 runs in the first innings. With the match heading to a draw, the winner of Ranji Trophy 2019-20 is set to be decided on the basis of first-innings lead which makes the encounter even more fascinating. While Bengal need 71 runs to take a first-innings lead, Saurashtra are four wickets away from putting their hands on the coveted trophy. Bengal are playing a Ranji Trophy final after 13 years whereas this is Saurashtra's consecutive outing in the summit clash.

Saurashtra vs Bengal: Day 5 of Ranji Trophy final to be played in empty stadium amid coronavirus outbreak

Rain washed out the first one-day international between India and South Africa without a ball being bowled in Dharamsala on Thursday -- and the next two games could be held in empty stadiums because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Morning rain over the Himalayan hill town forced a delay of the toss, and returned in the afternoon leaving umpires with no choice but to call the game off.

It is the second successive international to have been washed out at Dharamsala after a Twenty20 match between the same opponents was abandoned without a ball being bowled in September.

This three-match series has gone ahead despite the coronavirus outbreak that has prompted the cancellation of top sporting events across the globe.

But the next two matches in Lucknow on Sunday and Kolkata on March 18 could be played behind closed doors after the Indian government advised sports bodies to hold events in empty stadiums because of the pandemic.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India made no immediate announcement of its plans for the games.

Rain washed out the first one-day international between India and South Africa without a ball being bowled in Dharamsala on Thursday -- and the next two games could be held in empty stadiums because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Rain washed out the first one-day international between India and South Africa without a ball being bowled in Dharamsala on Thursday -- and the next two games could be held in empty stadiums because of the coronavirus pandemic. Morning rain over the Himalayan hill town forced a delay of the toss, and returned in the afternoon leaving umpires with no choice but to call the game off. It is the second successive international to have been washed out at Dharamsala after a Twenty20 match between the same opponents was abandoned without a ball being bowled in September. This three-match series has gone ahead despite the coronavirus outbreak that has prompted the cancellation of top sporting events across the globe. But the next two matches in Lucknow on Sunday and Kolkata on March 18 could be played behind closed doors after the Indian government advised sports bodies to hold events in empty stadiums because of the pandemic. The Board of Control for Cricket in India made no immediate announcement of its plans for the games.

Rain washes out first India-South Africa one-day international

McLaren pulled out of the season-opening Australian Grand Prix Thursday after a team member tested positive for coronavirus, throwing the race into chaos.

The employee was among at least five Formula One personnel -- four from Haas -- who went into isolation this week after showing flu-like symptoms typical of the virus.

"The team member was tested and self-isolated as soon as they started to show symptoms and will now be treated by local healthcare authorities," McLaren said in a statement, adding that he would be quarantined.

"The decision (to withdraw) has been taken based on a duty of care not only to McLaren F1 employees and partners, but also to the team's competitors, Formula 1 fans and wider F1 stakeholders."

Results of the tests for the Haas staff have yet to be revealed.

McLaren's decision to pull out casts doubt over whether the race will be run without a full complement of teams, and whether others will follow suit.

World champion Lewis Hamilton earlier Thursday said he was "very surprised" that it was going ahead as fears mount about the spread of the disease.

"I am really very, very surprised that we're here. I don't think it's great that we have races but it really is shocking that we're all sitting in this room," he said at an official pre-race press conference packed with media.

"It seems that the rest of the world is already reacting a little bit late, but you have seen this morning with (President Donald) Trump shutting down the border to Europe to the States, the NBA suspended, yet Formula One continues to go on.

"It's a concern I think for the people here. It's quite a big circus that's come here, it's definitely concerning for me."

The Mercedes star, who is gunning to match Michael Schumacher's record seven world crowns this season, sat alongside Ferrari's Sebastian Vettel and Renault's Daniel Ricciardo in the media session, but a large open space separated them from the press.

Asked why he felt the race was still on, Hamilton replied: "Cash is king."

Four-time world champion Vettel said it was difficult to judge what to do as the virus continues its spread.&nbsp;

"Obviously we have to trust the FIA (International Automobile Federation) to take precautions as much as they can, but I think the answer that nobody can give you at the moment is how much you can control what is going on," he said.

"As a matter of fact, we are here so you just try to take care as much as you can."

<h2>- T20 cricket final -</h2>

Haas team principal Guenther Steiner said they had not yet discussed what to do if any of their employees tested positive.

"We'll cross that bridge when we get to it," he said.

Australia has reported 150 cases of coronavirus so far, including among fans who attended the women's T20 Cricket World Cup final and a Super Rugby match, both in Melbourne last week.

European countries that are home to many of the F1 teams and journalists at the grand prix have had far more cases.

Despite concerns, fans flocked to Albert Park on Thursday for a Supercars qualifying session.

"I'm not worried, I'm washing my hands and that's the best thing to do," said spectator Robert Clarke as he used a hand-sanitiser station.

<h2>- Masked driver -</h2>

The first F1 practice sessions are due to start on Friday.

In an attempt to limit interaction between drivers and fans, autograph sessions have been replaced by question and answer interviews, with selfies banned.

Media events have also been hit with Renault's Ricciardo and Esteban Ocon "excused" from a press conference Wednesday, and an exclusion zone was enforced around Max Verstappen and Alex Albon at a Red Bull function.

Ocon was spotted wearing a mask in the paddock on Thursday, while teams scrapped all-in TV interviews, where media are tightly packed around the drivers, for the duration of the weekend.

The coronavirus has already hurt the sport with April's Chinese Grand Prix postponed, while the second race of the year in Bahrain will be held without spectators.

The Australian Grand Prix Corporation said it was working closely with health authorities to take additional precautions at Albert Park, including having hand sanitisers at public areas and corporate facilities.

Cleaning and disinfection programmes have been increased and protocols implemented to respond to any suspected COVID-19 cases.&nbsp;

Over the weekend, the FIA said it was establishing a "crisis cell" to meet every two days to monitor the global threat posed by the virus.

McLaren pulled out of the season-opening Australian Grand Prix Thursday after a team member tested positive for coronavirus, throwing the race into chaos. The employee was among at least five Formula One personnel -- four from Haas -- who went into isolation this week after showing flu-like symptoms typical of the virus.

McLaren pulled out of the season-opening Australian Grand Prix Thursday after a team member tested positive for coronavirus, throwing the race into chaos. The employee was among at least five Formula One personnel -- four from Haas -- who went into isolation this week after showing flu-like symptoms typical of the virus. "The team member was tested and self-isolated as soon as they started to show symptoms and will now be treated by local healthcare authorities," McLaren said in a statement, adding that he would be quarantined. "The decision (to withdraw) has been taken based on a duty of care not only to McLaren F1 employees and partners, but also to the team's competitors, Formula 1 fans and wider F1 stakeholders." Results of the tests for the Haas staff have yet to be revealed. McLaren's decision to pull out casts doubt over whether the race will be run without a full complement of teams, and whether others will follow suit. World champion Lewis Hamilton earlier Thursday said he was "very surprised" that it was going ahead as fears mount about the spread of the disease. "I am really very, very surprised that we're here. I don't think it's great that we have races but it really is shocking that we're all sitting in this room," he said at an official pre-race press conference packed with media. "It seems that the rest of the world is already reacting a little bit late, but you have seen this morning with (President Donald) Trump shutting down the border to Europe to the States, the NBA suspended, yet Formula One continues to go on. "It's a concern I think for the people here. It's quite a big circus that's come here, it's definitely concerning for me." The Mercedes star, who is gunning to match Michael Schumacher's record seven world crowns this season, sat alongside Ferrari's Sebastian Vettel and Renault's Daniel Ricciardo in the media session, but a large open space separated them from the press. Asked why he felt the race was still on, Hamilton replied: "Cash is king." Four-time world champion Vettel said it was difficult to judge what to do as the virus continues its spread. "Obviously we have to trust the FIA (International Automobile Federation) to take precautions as much as they can, but I think the answer that nobody can give you at the moment is how much you can control what is going on," he said. "As a matter of fact, we are here so you just try to take care as much as you can." - T20 cricket final - Haas team principal Guenther Steiner said they had not yet discussed what to do if any of their employees tested positive. "We'll cross that bridge when we get to it," he said. Australia has reported 150 cases of coronavirus so far, including among fans who attended the women's T20 Cricket World Cup final and a Super Rugby match, both in Melbourne last week. European countries that are home to many of the F1 teams and journalists at the grand prix have had far more cases. Despite concerns, fans flocked to Albert Park on Thursday for a Supercars qualifying session. "I'm not worried, I'm washing my hands and that's the best thing to do," said spectator Robert Clarke as he used a hand-sanitiser station. - Masked driver - The first F1 practice sessions are due to start on Friday. In an attempt to limit interaction between drivers and fans, autograph sessions have been replaced by question and answer interviews, with selfies banned. Media events have also been hit with Renault's Ricciardo and Esteban Ocon "excused" from a press conference Wednesday, and an exclusion zone was enforced around Max Verstappen and Alex Albon at a Red Bull function. Ocon was spotted wearing a mask in the paddock on Thursday, while teams scrapped all-in TV interviews, where media are tightly packed around the drivers, for the duration of the weekend. The coronavirus has already hurt the sport with April's Chinese Grand Prix postponed, while the second race of the year in Bahrain will be held without spectators. The Australian Grand Prix Corporation said it was working closely with health authorities to take additional precautions at Albert Park, including having hand sanitisers at public areas and corporate facilities. Cleaning and disinfection programmes have been increased and protocols implemented to respond to any suspected COVID-19 cases. Over the weekend, the FIA said it was establishing a "crisis cell" to meet every two days to monitor the global threat posed by the virus.

Season-opening Australian F1 in chaos as McLaren pulls out

Spanish giants Real Madrid on Thursday stated that all the members of their squad have been quarantined after a member of Real Madrid's basketball team was tested positive for coronavirus. Since Real Madrid's basketball and football team share the same facility in Ciudad Real Madrid, the club has taken a precautionary step and quarantined the members of basketball and football team on immediate basis.

With Real Madrid being quarantined, question marks have been raised over their upcoming fixtures in La Liga and UEFA Champions League 2019-20. While Real Madrid are scheduled to play Eibar on Saturday, the Los Blancos were to lock horns with Manchester City in the reverse fixture in UEFA Champions League next week.

<h2>Dark clouds over Real Madrid vs Manchester City</h2>

“Real Madrid CF reports that a player from our basketball team has tested positive for the COVID-19 coronavirus. Since then, the recommendation has been made to quarantine both the basketball first team and the football first team, given that the two squads share facilities in Ciudad Real Madrid. Likewise, it has been decided to close the facilities of our sports city and it is also recommended that all Real Madrid personnel who provide their services in Real Madrid City remain in quarantine. The matches that were scheduled for today and tomorrow, corresponding to the Euroleague basketball and La Liga soccer, will not be played,” a statement from Real on the club’s official website read.

Not a single training session was held in Madrid on Thursday ahead of the official announcement by the club. Now with the players being quarantined, the Los Merengues will also be forced to rearrange their clash with Valencia in La Liga, which was scheduled to be held on March 21.

With the quarantine period for COVID-19 being 15 days, the time-frame goes beyond their reverse clash against Manchester City, which is scheduled to be held at the Etihad Stadium in Manchester on March 17.

<h2>La Liga stands suspended</h2>

A La Liga statement read: "In view of the circumstances known this morning, referring to the quarantine established in Real Madrid and the possible positive tests from players at other clubs, La Liga considers that the circumstances now exist to continue with the next phase of action against COVID-19."

"La Liga agrees to suspend at least the next two matchdays," the statement added. "This decision will be re-evaluated after the quarantine at affected clubs and other possible situations that could occur have ended."

Spanish giants Real Madrid on Thursday stated that all the members of their squad have been quarantined after a member of Real Madrid's basketball team was tested positive for coronavirus.

Spanish giants Real Madrid on Thursday stated that all the members of their squad have been quarantined after a member of Real Madrid's basketball team was tested positive for coronavirus. Since Real Madrid's basketball and football team share the same facility in Ciudad Real Madrid, the club has taken a precautionary step and quarantined the members of basketball and football team on immediate basis. With Real Madrid being quarantined, question marks have been raised over their upcoming fixtures in La Liga and UEFA Champions League 2019-20. While Real Madrid are scheduled to play Eibar on Saturday, the Los Blancos were to lock horns with Manchester City in the reverse fixture in UEFA Champions League next week. Dark clouds over Real Madrid vs Manchester City “Real Madrid CF reports that a player from our basketball team has tested positive for the COVID-19 coronavirus. Since then, the recommendation has been made to quarantine both the basketball first team and the football first team, given that the two squads share facilities in Ciudad Real Madrid. Likewise, it has been decided to close the facilities of our sports city and it is also recommended that all Real Madrid personnel who provide their services in Real Madrid City remain in quarantine. The matches that were scheduled for today and tomorrow, corresponding to the Euroleague basketball and La Liga soccer, will not be played,” a statement from Real on the club’s official website read. Not a single training session was held in Madrid on Thursday ahead of the official announcement by the club. Now with the players being quarantined, the Los Merengues will also be forced to rearrange their clash with Valencia in La Liga, which was scheduled to be held on March 21. With the quarantine period for COVID-19 being 15 days, the time-frame goes beyond their reverse clash against Manchester City, which is scheduled to be held at the Etihad Stadium in Manchester on March 17. La Liga stands suspended A La Liga statement read: "In view of the circumstances known this morning, referring to the quarantine established in Real Madrid and the possible positive tests from players at other clubs, La Liga considers that the circumstances now exist to continue with the next phase of action against COVID-19." "La Liga agrees to suspend at least the next two matchdays," the statement added. "This decision will be re-evaluated after the quarantine at affected clubs and other possible situations that could occur have ended."

Coronavirus effect on football: Real Madrid players quarantined; major doubts over UEFA Champions League match against Man City

Cancelling the 2020 Olympics is "unthinkable" although the classification of the coronavirus as a pandemic will likely have some impact on the Games, the Tokyo city governor said on Thursday.

"It can't be said that the announcement of a pandemic would have no impact... But I think cancellation is unthinkable," Yuriko Koike told reporters.

Doubts are increasingly being raised over whether the Olympics can be held as scheduled from July 24 to August 9.

Organisers have insisted the Games will go ahead as planned and the International Olympic Committee (IOC), with whom the final decision rests, has said there has not yet been any talk of cancellation or postponement.

The IOC has said it will coordinate closely with the World Health Organization, which has now officially classified the outbreak as a pandemic.

But coronavirus has already taken a huge toll on sport across the globe.

US basketball was the latest sport to be hit, as the NBA said it would suspend play starting on Thursday after a Utah Jazz player preliminarily tested positive for COVID-19.

In Italy, the hardest-hit European country, all sporting events including Serie A have been suspended until April 3.

Arsenal's game at Manchester City on Wednesday became the first Premier League fixture to be called off due to the outbreak, with the Gunners' players put in quarantine after coming into contact with the owner of Greek club Olympiakos.

The virus has also hit the UEFA Champions League, with Italian side Atalanta qualifying for the quarter-finals at Valencia on Tuesday in an empty stadium, while Paris Saint-Germain's win over Borussia Dortmund was also played without spectators.

In tennis, the prestigious ATP and WTA Indian Wells tournament was cancelled as California health officials declared a public health emergency in the area after a confirmed case of the coronavirus.

Cancelling the 2020 Olympics is "unthinkable" although the classification of the coronavirus as a pandemic will likely have some impact on the Games, the Tokyo city governor said on Thursday.

Cancelling the 2020 Olympics is "unthinkable" although the classification of the coronavirus as a pandemic will likely have some impact on the Games, the Tokyo city governor said on Thursday. "It can't be said that the announcement of a pandemic would have no impact... But I think cancellation is unthinkable," Yuriko Koike told reporters. Doubts are increasingly being raised over whether the Olympics can be held as scheduled from July 24 to August 9. Organisers have insisted the Games will go ahead as planned and the International Olympic Committee (IOC), with whom the final decision rests, has said there has not yet been any talk of cancellation or postponement. The IOC has said it will coordinate closely with the World Health Organization, which has now officially classified the outbreak as a pandemic. But coronavirus has already taken a huge toll on sport across the globe. US basketball was the latest sport to be hit, as the NBA said it would suspend play starting on Thursday after a Utah Jazz player preliminarily tested positive for COVID-19. In Italy, the hardest-hit European country, all sporting events including Serie A have been suspended until April 3. Arsenal's game at Manchester City on Wednesday became the first Premier League fixture to be called off due to the outbreak, with the Gunners' players put in quarantine after coming into contact with the owner of Greek club Olympiakos. The virus has also hit the UEFA Champions League, with Italian side Atalanta qualifying for the quarter-finals at Valencia on Tuesday in an empty stadium, while Paris Saint-Germain's win over Borussia Dortmund was also played without spectators. In tennis, the prestigious ATP and WTA Indian Wells tournament was cancelled as California health officials declared a public health emergency in the area after a confirmed case of the coronavirus.

Tokyo governor says cancelling 2020 Olympics 'unthinkable'

With India-South Africa series, ace Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya would be making his comeback to the cricket field in the international circuit after remaining sidelined due to a lower back injury for quite a few months. Hardik, who displayed scintillating form in the recently concluded DY Patil T20 Cup, where the flamboyant all-rounder smashed a couple of blistering centuries to take the cricketing circuit by storm. After proving his fitness in the T20 tournament, Hardik was named in the Indian squad for the three-match ODI series against South Africa starting from March 12 in Dharamsala.

Hardik was supposed to make his comeback in India 'A' tour of New Zealand, where the right-handed all-rounder was named in the squad, however, he failed the fitness test and Vijay Shankar was sent as a replacement. Now, Hardik has revealed that it was a mental challenge for him to come back to full fitness due to the number of injuries and setbacks he was having before and after the ICC World Cup 2019.

Hardik said that he missed the dressing room atmosphere while he was out injured in the last six months while adding the feeling of playing for the country and donning the Team India jersey is unmatchable. However, the 26-year-old all-rounder said that he is glad to overcome the setbacks and is now gearing up for hitting the right chords for Team India, on the cricket field.&nbsp;

"I missed this atmosphere the most in these last six months, playing for the country and the feeling you get wearing the team’s colours,” Hardik told teammate Yuzvendra Chahal in an interview posted on BCCI's official website.

<h2>"A mental challenge and there were a lot of setbacks"</h2>

“That had become a mental challenge and there were a lot of setbacks. I was trying to get back to full fitness quickly but that did not work out and a lot of mental pressure came at the time. But touchwood, everything went fine, the rehabilitation went well and a lot of people helped me,” he added.

Hardik's form in DY Patil T20 Cup was surreal. The flamboyant all-rounder smoked sixes for fun and piled misery on the opposition bowlers. For the ace all-rounder, going back to the field and practice in match situation was important to regain confidence. However, Hardik joked that he never thought of hitting 20 sixes in an innings while adding he enjoyed batting in the tournament.

"It was important. I had not played anything for six and a half months. I wanted to make an international comeback so it was very important for my confidence. No matter how much you practice, the match situation is always different," said Pandya when asked about DY Patil Cup performance."

“So I just kept on playing, my confidence kept improving and the sixes were coming off well. I thought if they are coming off well, why should I stop and I kept going. But I never thought that I want to hit 20 sixes in an innings,” he added.

Hardik's fitness and form will be crucial to Team India's hopes of lifting the ICC T20 World Cup 2020 which is scheduled to be held in Australia in October 2020.&nbsp;

With India-South Africa series, ace Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya would be making his comeback to the cricket field in the international circuit after remaining sidelined due to a lower back injury for quite a few months.

With India-South Africa series, ace Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya would be making his comeback to the cricket field in the international circuit after remaining sidelined due to a lower back injury for quite a few months. Hardik, who displayed scintillating form in the recently concluded DY Patil T20 Cup, where the flamboyant all-rounder smashed a couple of blistering centuries to take the cricketing circuit by storm. After proving his fitness in the T20 tournament, Hardik was named in the Indian squad for the three-match ODI series against South Africa starting from March 12 in Dharamsala. Hardik was supposed to make his comeback in India 'A' tour of New Zealand, where the right-handed all-rounder was named in the squad, however, he failed the fitness test and Vijay Shankar was sent as a replacement. Now, Hardik has revealed that it was a mental challenge for him to come back to full fitness due to the number of injuries and setbacks he was having before and after the ICC World Cup 2019. Hardik said that he missed the dressing room atmosphere while he was out injured in the last six months while adding the feeling of playing for the country and donning the Team India jersey is unmatchable. However, the 26-year-old all-rounder said that he is glad to overcome the setbacks and is now gearing up for hitting the right chords for Team India, on the cricket field. "I missed this atmosphere the most in these last six months, playing for the country and the feeling you get wearing the team’s colours,” Hardik told teammate Yuzvendra Chahal in an interview posted on BCCI's official website. "A mental challenge and there were a lot of setbacks" “That had become a mental challenge and there were a lot of setbacks. I was trying to get back to full fitness quickly but that did not work out and a lot of mental pressure came at the time. But touchwood, everything went fine, the rehabilitation went well and a lot of people helped me,” he added. Hardik's form in DY Patil T20 Cup was surreal. The flamboyant all-rounder smoked sixes for fun and piled misery on the opposition bowlers. For the ace all-rounder, going back to the field and practice in match situation was important to regain confidence. However, Hardik joked that he never thought of hitting 20 sixes in an innings while adding he enjoyed batting in the tournament. "It was important. I had not played anything for six and a half months. I wanted to make an international comeback so it was very important for my confidence. No matter how much you practice, the match situation is always different," said Pandya when asked about DY Patil Cup performance." “So I just kept on playing, my confidence kept improving and the sixes were coming off well. I thought if they are coming off well, why should I stop and I kept going. But I never thought that I want to hit 20 sixes in an innings,” he added. Hardik's fitness and form will be crucial to Team India's hopes of lifting the ICC T20 World Cup 2020 which is scheduled to be held in Australia in October 2020.

India vs South Africa: Rehabilitation and setbacks became a mental challenge, reveals Hardik Pandya

South America's football federations asked FIFA on Wednesday to delay their qualifying matches for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar because of the global new coronavirus pandemic.

"The South American teams risk not being able to count on players they have picked and who play in Europe because they, arriving from countries with a high level of contagion, could be placed in quarantine," said a letter from CONMEBOL, South American football's governing body, to FIFA Secretary General Fatma Samoura. Qualifying matches are due to begin on March 26.

The letter said it expressed the position of its 10 members: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay and Venezuela.

The letter said they "have asked CONMEBOL to place for consideration by FIFA the request to postpone the start of the World Cup qualifiers."

Many of the South American players selected for their national sides play in Europe, where the deadly new coronavirus is rapidly spreading.

Argentina's coach Lionel Scaloni has picked six players based in Italy, where the virus has killed at least 827 people in just over two weeks.

The new coronavirus has already disrupted numerous major sporting events worldwide, including Italy's Serie A football whose matches are suspended.

South America's football federations asked FIFA on Wednesday to delay their qualifying matches for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar because of the global new coronavirus pandemic.

South America's football federations asked FIFA on Wednesday to delay their qualifying matches for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar because of the global new coronavirus pandemic. "The South American teams risk not being able to count on players they have picked and who play in Europe because they, arriving from countries with a high level of contagion, could be placed in quarantine," said a letter from CONMEBOL, South American football's governing body, to FIFA Secretary General Fatma Samoura. Qualifying matches are due to begin on March 26. The letter said it expressed the position of its 10 members: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay and Venezuela. The letter said they "have asked CONMEBOL to place for consideration by FIFA the request to postpone the start of the World Cup qualifiers." Many of the South American players selected for their national sides play in Europe, where the deadly new coronavirus is rapidly spreading. Argentina's coach Lionel Scaloni has picked six players based in Italy, where the virus has killed at least 827 people in just over two weeks. The new coronavirus has already disrupted numerous major sporting events worldwide, including Italy's Serie A football whose matches are suspended.

South America asks FIFA to delay World Cup qualifiers due to coronavirus

With the novel coronavirus spreading like a wildfire, the number of positive cases of COVID-19 has touched the 120,000-mark worldwide. In India, there have been at least 73 positive cases of the novel virus with the government suspending all regular visas to India except diplomatic and official visas from March 13. In what comes as a piece of massive news in the world of sports and cricket, in particular, a person who attended the recently-concluded ICC Women's T20 World Cup Final at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground held on March 8, has been tested positive of COVID-19.&nbsp;

The Melbourne Cricket Club on Thursday confirmed the latest development as they stated that the person sat on Level 2 of the Northern Stand at the MCG in section N42. However, the MCC clarified that the diagnosis has been classified as low-risk of spreading COVID-19 to members seated around the diagnosed person.&nbsp;

"The Melbourne Cricket Club (MCC), as ground managers of the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), is aware that a person who attended the ICC Women's T20 World Cup Final at the MCG on Sunday, March 8 has now been diagnosed with COVID-19," a statement on the Melbourne Cricket Club website said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-xi-vs-world-xi-matches-postponed-amid-coronavirus-fears-285667">Asia XI vs World XI matches postponed amid coronavirus fears</a>

"The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has advised of the patron's diagnosis and has classified it as a low-risk of spreading COVID-19 to surrounding members of the public and staff. The patron sat on Level 2 of the Northern Stand at the MCG in section N42," the statement added.

The Department of Health and Human Services has further stated that everyone seated in N42 section should continue their normal routine but with an added focus of personal hygiene while adding that medical consultation is advised should any flu-like symptoms emerge.&nbsp;

"The DHHS recommends that those who were seated in N42 at Sunday's event should continue to go about their normal routine, with an increased focus on hygiene measures, and should any flu-like symptoms emerge to consult with a medical professional. The MCC is working closely with the Government and the DHHS and the advice is to operate business as usual, including hosting major events, however, are prepared should that change at any stage. The MCC is committed to maintaining a safe and healthy environment for those visiting the MCG and as a precautionary measure has undertaken intensive cleaning of the affected section," the statement read.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/coronavirus-effect-on-india-south-africa-odis-the-saliva-conundrum-for-bhuvneshwar-kumar-285650">Coronavirus effect on India-South Africa ODIs: The saliva conundrum for Bhuvneshwar Kumar</a>

Meanwhile, the sporting world has taken a hit due to the coronavirus outbreak. With Indian government cancelling all existing visas except diplomatic, official including UN/International Organizations, employment, project visas till April 15, all eyes have now shifted to the IPL governing council meeting which is scheduled to be held on March 14 (Saturday).

With the novel coronavirus spreading like a wildfire, the number of positive cases of COVID-19 has touched the 120,000-mark worldwide. In India, there have been at least 73 positive cases of the novel virus with the government suspending all regular visas to India except diplomatic and official visas from March 13.

With the novel coronavirus spreading like a wildfire, the number of positive cases of COVID-19 has touched the 120,000-mark worldwide. In India, there have been at least 73 positive cases of the novel virus with the government suspending all regular visas to India except diplomatic and official visas from March 13. In what comes as a piece of massive news in the world of sports and cricket, in particular, a person who attended the recently-concluded ICC Women's T20 World Cup Final at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground held on March 8, has been tested positive of COVID-19. The Melbourne Cricket Club on Thursday confirmed the latest development as they stated that the person sat on Level 2 of the Northern Stand at the MCG in section N42. However, the MCC clarified that the diagnosis has been classified as low-risk of spreading COVID-19 to members seated around the diagnosed person. "The Melbourne Cricket Club (MCC), as ground managers of the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), is aware that a person who attended the ICC Women's T20 World Cup Final at the MCG on Sunday, March 8 has now been diagnosed with COVID-19," a statement on the Melbourne Cricket Club website said. ALSO READ: Asia XI vs World XI matches postponed amid coronavirus fears "The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has advised of the patron's diagnosis and has classified it as a low-risk of spreading COVID-19 to surrounding members of the public and staff. The patron sat on Level 2 of the Northern Stand at the MCG in section N42," the statement added. The Department of Health and Human Services has further stated that everyone seated in N42 section should continue their normal routine but with an added focus of personal hygiene while adding that medical consultation is advised should any flu-like symptoms emerge. "The DHHS recommends that those who were seated in N42 at Sunday's event should continue to go about their normal routine, with an increased focus on hygiene measures, and should any flu-like symptoms emerge to consult with a medical professional. The MCC is working closely with the Government and the DHHS and the advice is to operate business as usual, including hosting major events, however, are prepared should that change at any stage. The MCC is committed to maintaining a safe and healthy environment for those visiting the MCG and as a precautionary measure has undertaken intensive cleaning of the affected section," the statement read. ALSO READ: Coronavirus effect on India-South Africa ODIs: The saliva conundrum for Bhuvneshwar Kumar Meanwhile, the sporting world has taken a hit due to the coronavirus outbreak. With Indian government cancelling all existing visas except diplomatic, official including UN/International Organizations, employment, project visas till April 15, all eyes have now shifted to the IPL governing council meeting which is scheduled to be held on March 14 (Saturday).

Coronavirus effect on cricket: Fan who attended ICC Women's T20 World Cup final tests positive for COVID-19

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