The Premier League has welcomed the British government's announcement on the easing of lockdown restrictions amid the COVID-19 pandemic and Chief Executive Richard Masters said on Monday it is their priority to have full stadiums next season.

The government said in February that under the third stage of its four-stage "roadmap", stadiums would - if all conditions are met - from May 17 be allowed to hold up to 50% of their capacity, or 4,000 people, whichever is lower.

A special provision will be made for large outdoor, seated venues, so that they can open their doors to up to 10,000 people or 25% of the capacity, whichever is lower.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson confirmed on Monday the roadmap would progress as planned.

"It'll be brilliant to see fans back. They've been hugely missed and the Premier League hasn't been the same without them. Their presence will ensure a fantastic finale to the end of our season," Masters said.

Matches in England's top-flight have taken place behind closed doors since June, apart from a brief window late last year when small crowds were allowed before a resurgence of COVID-19 cases.

The Premier League said last week attendance for the penultimate round of matches to be played on May 18-19 and the final day May 23 would be restricted to home fans.

"Although only a small number of home fans will be at our matches next week, this is an important step in our return to normality," Masters added.

"We'll continue to work with the government and other authorities as our priority is to have full vibrant stadiums – including away supporters - from the start of next season. Only then will we get back to the real Premier League."

A crowd of 8,000 watched Manchester City beat Tottenham Hotspur in the League Cup final on April 25, while this weekend's FA Cup final is expected to have 21,000 fans present.

The Premier League has welcomed the British government's announcement on the easing of lockdown restrictions amid the COVID-19 pandemic and Chief Executive Richard Masters said on Monday it is their priority to have full stadiums next season.

The Premier League has welcomed the British government's announcement on the easing of lockdown restrictions amid the COVID-19 pandemic and Chief Executive Richard Masters said on Monday it is their priority to have full stadiums next season. The government said in February that under the third stage of its four-stage "roadmap", stadiums would - if all conditions are met - from May 17 be allowed to hold up to 50% of their capacity, or 4,000 people, whichever is lower. A special provision will be made for large outdoor, seated venues, so that they can open their doors to up to 10,000 people or 25% of the capacity, whichever is lower. Prime Minister Boris Johnson confirmed on Monday the roadmap would progress as planned. "It'll be brilliant to see fans back. They've been hugely missed and the Premier League hasn't been the same without them. Their presence will ensure a fantastic finale to the end of our season," Masters said. Matches in England's top-flight have taken place behind closed doors since June, apart from a brief window late last year when small crowds were allowed before a resurgence of COVID-19 cases. The Premier League said last week attendance for the penultimate round of matches to be played on May 18-19 and the final day May 23 would be restricted to home fans. "Although only a small number of home fans will be at our matches next week, this is an important step in our return to normality," Masters added. "We'll continue to work with the government and other authorities as our priority is to have full vibrant stadiums – including away supporters - from the start of next season. Only then will we get back to the real Premier League." A crowd of 8,000 watched Manchester City beat Tottenham Hotspur in the League Cup final on April 25, while this weekend's FA Cup final is expected to have 21,000 fans present.

Premier League anticipates full stadiums next season

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga said on Monday that he has never "put the&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;first", as an opinion poll showed nearly 60% of people in Japan want the Games cancelled with fewer than eleven weeks left before they are due to open.

Japan has extended a state of emergency in Tokyo and three other areas until the end of May and is struggling to contain a surge in COVID-19 cases, raising more questions about whether the Games should go ahead. Its vaccination rate is also the lowest among wealthy nations.

International Olympic officials, Tokyo planners and Suga himself have insisted the Games will go on in "a safe and secure" way. Foreign spectators will not be allowed and planners issued an elaborate set of rules last month aimed at preventing coronavirus infections.

But such arrangements have not eased public worries over the Games that were postponed last year due to the coronavirus.

An opinion survey conducted on May 7-9 by the Yomiuri Shimbun daily showed 59% of respondents wanted the Games cancelled as opposed to 39% who said they should be held. "Postponement" was not offered as an option.

Another poll conducted at the weekend by TBS News found 65% wanted the Games cancelled or postponed again. More than 300,000 people have signed a petition to cancel the Games since it was launched about five days ago.

Opposition members of parliament grilled Suga for hours about holding the Games under these circumstances.

In apparent acknowledgement of the public concern about holding the Games no matter what, Suga, when asked if the Games would go ahead even if infections spiked, replied: "I've never put&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;first".

"My priority has been to protect the lives and health of the Japanese population. We must first prevent the spread of the virus," he said.

DECLINING SUPPORT

Voter support for Suga's government is now at its lowest level since he took office last year, with a majority of the public unhappy with his handling of the pandemic, a poll showed.

A tweet by one of his advisers downplaying the pandemic and laughing off calls for the Games to be cancelled has also drawn public ire.

Suga has said the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has the final say on the Games and the government's role was to take steps so they can be held safely. Several test events with foreign athletes have been successfully held, most recently on Sunday.

A visit by IOC head Thomas Bach scheduled for May 17-18 has been cancelled "in the light of the extension of the state of emergency last week and various circumstances we are facing," Tokyo 2020 organisers said in a statement.

"We will continue to monitor the COVID-19 situation in Japan and other relevant factors and will re-arrange his visit to Japan as soon as possible."

Media said the visit would likely take place in June, with one outlet saying that lifting the state of emergency would be a prerequisite.

An official in Okayama prefecture said they were considering keeping the Olympic torch relay off public roads when it passes through next week. Though other prefectures have taken similar steps, they were under states of emergency or other restrictions at the time.

Top Olympic official John Coates said on Saturday that while public sentiment in Japan about the Games "was a concern" he could foresee no scenario under which the sporting extravaganza would not go ahead.

On Sunday, Japanese tennis player Naomi Osaka said that even though she had waited her whole life to take part in the&nbsp;Olympics, the risk of holding the Tokyo Games should be carefully discussed.

The Games are set to open on July 23 and run until Aug. 8.

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga said on Monday that he has never "put the Olympics first", as an opinion poll showed nearly 60% of people in Japan want the Games cancelled with fewer than eleven weeks left before they are due to open.

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga said on Monday that he has never "put the Olympics first", as an opinion poll showed nearly 60% of people in Japan want the Games cancelled with fewer than eleven weeks left before they are due to open. Japan has extended a state of emergency in Tokyo and three other areas until the end of May and is struggling to contain a surge in COVID-19 cases, raising more questions about whether the Games should go ahead. Its vaccination rate is also the lowest among wealthy nations. International Olympic officials, Tokyo planners and Suga himself have insisted the Games will go on in "a safe and secure" way. Foreign spectators will not be allowed and planners issued an elaborate set of rules last month aimed at preventing coronavirus infections. But such arrangements have not eased public worries over the Games that were postponed last year due to the coronavirus. An opinion survey conducted on May 7-9 by the Yomiuri Shimbun daily showed 59% of respondents wanted the Games cancelled as opposed to 39% who said they should be held. "Postponement" was not offered as an option. Another poll conducted at the weekend by TBS News found 65% wanted the Games cancelled or postponed again. More than 300,000 people have signed a petition to cancel the Games since it was launched about five days ago. Opposition members of parliament grilled Suga for hours about holding the Games under these circumstances. In apparent acknowledgement of the public concern about holding the Games no matter what, Suga, when asked if the Games would go ahead even if infections spiked, replied: "I've never put Olympics first". "My priority has been to protect the lives and health of the Japanese population. We must first prevent the spread of the virus," he said. DECLINING SUPPORT Voter support for Suga's government is now at its lowest level since he took office last year, with a majority of the public unhappy with his handling of the pandemic, a poll showed. A tweet by one of his advisers downplaying the pandemic and laughing off calls for the Games to be cancelled has also drawn public ire. Suga has said the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has the final say on the Games and the government's role was to take steps so they can be held safely. Several test events with foreign athletes have been successfully held, most recently on Sunday. A visit by IOC head Thomas Bach scheduled for May 17-18 has been cancelled "in the light of the extension of the state of emergency last week and various circumstances we are facing," Tokyo 2020 organisers said in a statement. "We will continue to monitor the COVID-19 situation in Japan and other relevant factors and will re-arrange his visit to Japan as soon as possible." Media said the visit would likely take place in June, with one outlet saying that lifting the state of emergency would be a prerequisite. An official in Okayama prefecture said they were considering keeping the Olympic torch relay off public roads when it passes through next week. Though other prefectures have taken similar steps, they were under states of emergency or other restrictions at the time. Top Olympic official John Coates said on Saturday that while public sentiment in Japan about the Games "was a concern" he could foresee no scenario under which the sporting extravaganza would not go ahead. On Sunday, Japanese tennis player Naomi Osaka said that even though she had waited her whole life to take part in the Olympics, the risk of holding the Tokyo Games should be carefully discussed. The Games are set to open on July 23 and run until Aug. 8.

Amid opposition, Japan Prime Minister says has 'never put Olympics first'

Two-time Olympic champion Rafael Nadal on Tuesday became the latest top tennis player to admit that he had not yet decided whether he would participate in the Tokyo Games this summer, still giving himself time to decide according to "circumstances".

The 34-year-old Spaniard won gold in the singles in Beijing in 2008, adding another gold in the doubles with Marc Lopez in Rio de Janeiro five years ago.

"In a normal world I would never consider missing the Olympics. There is no doubt about that," he said at a press conference ahead of his opening match at the Italian Open.

"Everybody knows how important the Olympics are for me.

"Under these circumstances, I don't know. Let's see what's going on in the next couple of months. But I need to organise my schedule.&nbsp;

"I don't know yet. Honestly I can't give you a clear answer because I don't know.&nbsp;

"In a normal year, I know my schedule almost 100 percent from January 1 until the end of the season. This year is a little bit different, no?

"We need to be flexible. We need to adapt to the things that are happening. I don't know, I can't give you an accurate answer. Sorry."

Nadal is the latest top tennis star to voice his concerns about the Tokyo Games.&nbsp;

On Monday, Serena Williams said she was undecided about going to the Olympics while Japanese stars Naomi Osaka and Kei Nishikori have both raised concerns about whether Tokyo should be hosting the Games at all.

"I'm an athlete, and of course my immediate thought is that I want to play in the Olympics," Osaka told the BBC.

"But as a human, I would say we're in a pandemic, and if people aren't healthy, and if they're not feeling safe, then it's definitely a really big cause for concern."

The Olympics, postponed from 2020 because of the coronavirus, are due to run from July 23 to August 8.

Two-time Olympic champion Rafael Nadal on Tuesday became the latest top tennis player to admit that he had not yet decided whether he would participate in the Tokyo Games this summer, still giving himself time to decide according to "circumstances".

Two-time Olympic champion Rafael Nadal on Tuesday became the latest top tennis player to admit that he had not yet decided whether he would participate in the Tokyo Games this summer, still giving himself time to decide according to "circumstances". The 34-year-old Spaniard won gold in the singles in Beijing in 2008, adding another gold in the doubles with Marc Lopez in Rio de Janeiro five years ago. "In a normal world I would never consider missing the Olympics. There is no doubt about that," he said at a press conference ahead of his opening match at the Italian Open. "Everybody knows how important the Olympics are for me. "Under these circumstances, I don't know. Let's see what's going on in the next couple of months. But I need to organise my schedule. "I don't know yet. Honestly I can't give you a clear answer because I don't know. "In a normal year, I know my schedule almost 100 percent from January 1 until the end of the season. This year is a little bit different, no? "We need to be flexible. We need to adapt to the things that are happening. I don't know, I can't give you an accurate answer. Sorry." Nadal is the latest top tennis star to voice his concerns about the Tokyo Games. On Monday, Serena Williams said she was undecided about going to the Olympics while Japanese stars Naomi Osaka and Kei Nishikori have both raised concerns about whether Tokyo should be hosting the Games at all. "I'm an athlete, and of course my immediate thought is that I want to play in the Olympics," Osaka told the BBC. "But as a human, I would say we're in a pandemic, and if people aren't healthy, and if they're not feeling safe, then it's definitely a really big cause for concern." The Olympics, postponed from 2020 because of the coronavirus, are due to run from July 23 to August 8.

Hesitant Nadal joins chorus of concern about Olympics

Gianluigi Buffon said Tuesday that he will bring the curtain down on his time at Juventus after nearly two decades at the end of the season, but will look to prolong his trophy-filled career elsewhere at the age of 43.

Former Italy captain Buffon is an iconic figure in Italian football, one of the stars of the Azzurri's 2006 World Cup triumph who racked up a record 176 caps for his country.

However he has been behind Wojciech Szczesny&nbsp;in the goalkeeping pecking order since returning to Juve from a short spell at Paris Saint-Germain in 2019 and has made just 12 appearances in all competitions this season.

"My future is clear, at the end of the season I'm leaving Juve, and then I will either find something that stimulates me or I will quit the game," he said in an interview with BeIN Sport.

"I have both given and received everything at Juventus, but we have come to the end of a cycle and it's only right that I put an end to any confusion (over his future)."

Buffon, who holds the record for Serie A appearances, has won 10 Serie A titles with Juventus since joining in 2001, as well as five Italian Cups and second-tier Serie B in 2007 after they were relegated in the aftermath of the 'Calciopoli' match-fixing scandal.

He also won Ligue 1 with Paris Saint-Germain in 2018-2019 before returning to the Turin giants, and the UEFA Cup back in 1999 with Parma, where he began his career as a teenager in 1995.

However he has never won the Champions League after losing finals with Juve in 2003, 2015 and 2017.

Gianluigi Buffon said Tuesday that he will bring the curtain down on his time at Juventus after nearly two decades at the end of the season, but will look to prolong his trophy-filled career elsewhere at the age of 43.

Gianluigi Buffon said Tuesday that he will bring the curtain down on his time at Juventus after nearly two decades at the end of the season, but will look to prolong his trophy-filled career elsewhere at the age of 43. Former Italy captain Buffon is an iconic figure in Italian football, one of the stars of the Azzurri's 2006 World Cup triumph who racked up a record 176 caps for his country. However he has been behind Wojciech Szczesny in the goalkeeping pecking order since returning to Juve from a short spell at Paris Saint-Germain in 2019 and has made just 12 appearances in all competitions this season. "My future is clear, at the end of the season I'm leaving Juve, and then I will either find something that stimulates me or I will quit the game," he said in an interview with BeIN Sport. "I have both given and received everything at Juventus, but we have come to the end of a cycle and it's only right that I put an end to any confusion (over his future)." Buffon, who holds the record for Serie A appearances, has won 10 Serie A titles with Juventus since joining in 2001, as well as five Italian Cups and second-tier Serie B in 2007 after they were relegated in the aftermath of the 'Calciopoli' match-fixing scandal. He also won Ligue 1 with Paris Saint-Germain in 2018-2019 before returning to the Turin giants, and the UEFA Cup back in 1999 with Parma, where he began his career as a teenager in 1995. However he has never won the Champions League after losing finals with Juve in 2003, 2015 and 2017.

Buffon to quit Juventus at end of season

The Guyana Amazon Warriors have announced their retentions for the 2021 Caribbean Premier League (CPL) which gets underway in St Kitts and&nbsp;Nevis on August 28. <o:p></o:p>

The Amazon Warriors have retained 11 of the players who guided them to the semi-finals of the 2020 event. Nicholas Pooran made the only century of last year’s tournament and he will be back with the Warriors this year along with Shimron Hetmyer and Brandon King. <o:p></o:p>

The Warriors will also be welcoming back South African leg spinner Imran Tahir and Afghan fast bowler Naveen ul Haq. <o:p></o:p>

The squad also features up-and-coming Guyanese players Kevin Sinclair and Ashmead Nedd, both of whom impressed in 2020 at their first CPL.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sl-vs-ind-hardik-pandya-shikhar-dhawan-locked-in-two-way-battle-for-india-captaincy-384332" hreflang="en">SL vs IND: Hardik Pandya, Shikhar Dhawan locked in two-way battle for India captaincy</a><o:p></o:p>

The Amazon Warriors have six spots left to fill in their squad and these will be announced in the coming weeks. <o:p></o:p>&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

The Guyana Amazon Warriors management team said: ‘’The Management of the Guyana Amazon Warriors Franchise are very pleased to retain the core group of players which comprised our squad over the last two years. The Franchise is very appreciative of the retained players for their loyalty and commitment to the Guyana Amazon Warriors. It is the hope of the Franchise that with the majority of players being together over the last two tournaments, the team unity, camaraderie and support for one another in working towards a common goal and purpose will bring the desired result of winning the tournament this year.”

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
BREAKING NEWS!!! The <a href="https://twitter.com/GYAmazonWarrior?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GYAmazonWarrior</a> announce 2021 retentions. Read more ▶️ <a href="https://t.co/KvSYTL0jFk">https://t.co/KvSYTL0jFk</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CPL21?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CPL21</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CPLDraft?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CPLDraft</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CricketPlayedLouder?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CricketPlayedLouder</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GuyanaAmazonWarriors?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GuyanaAmazonWarriors</a> <a href="https://t.co/ehS1dYlRQm">pic.twitter.com/ehS1dYlRQm</a>
— CPL T20 (@CPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/CPL/status/1392072529045557250?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 11, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Guyana Amazon Warriors retentions:<o:p></o:p></h2>

<o:p></o:p>

<ul>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Nicholas Pooran<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Imran Tahir<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Shimron Hetmyer<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Brandon King<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Naveen ul Haq<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Romario Shepherd<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Chandrapaul Hemraj<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Odean Smith<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Anthony Bramble<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Kevin Sinclair<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Ashmead Nedd <o:p></o:p></li>
</ul>

The Guyana Amazon Warriors have announced their retentions for the 2021 Caribbean Premier League (CPL) which gets underway in St Kitts and Nevis on August 28. The Amazon Warriors have retained 11 of the players who guided them to the semi-finals of the 2020 event.

The Guyana Amazon Warriors have announced their retentions for the 2021 Caribbean Premier League (CPL) which gets underway in St Kitts and Nevis on August 28. The Amazon Warriors have retained 11 of the players who guided them to the semi-finals of the 2020 event. Nicholas Pooran made the only century of last year’s tournament and he will be back with the Warriors this year along with Shimron Hetmyer and Brandon King. The Warriors will also be welcoming back South African leg spinner Imran Tahir and Afghan fast bowler Naveen ul Haq. The squad also features up-and-coming Guyanese players Kevin Sinclair and Ashmead Nedd, both of whom impressed in 2020 at their first CPL. ALSO READ: SL vs IND: Hardik Pandya, Shikhar Dhawan locked in two-way battle for India captaincy The Amazon Warriors have six spots left to fill in their squad and these will be announced in the coming weeks. The Guyana Amazon Warriors management team said: ‘’The Management of the Guyana Amazon Warriors Franchise are very pleased to retain the core group of players which comprised our squad over the last two years. The Franchise is very appreciative of the retained players for their loyalty and commitment to the Guyana Amazon Warriors. It is the hope of the Franchise that with the majority of players being together over the last two tournaments, the team unity, camaraderie and support for one another in working towards a common goal and purpose will bring the desired result of winning the tournament this year.” BREAKING NEWS!!! The @GYAmazonWarrior announce 2021 retentions. Read more ▶️ https://t.co/KvSYTL0jFk #CPL21 #CPLDraft #CricketPlayedLouder #GuyanaAmazonWarriors pic.twitter.com/ehS1dYlRQm — CPL T20 (@CPL) May 11, 2021 × Guyana Amazon Warriors retentions: Nicholas Pooran Imran Tahir Shimron Hetmyer Brandon King Naveen ul Haq Romario Shepherd Chandrapaul Hemraj Odean Smith Anthony Bramble Kevin Sinclair Ashmead Nedd

Guyana Amazon Warriors announce retentions for CPL 2021

The Indian cricket team is really fortunate to be enhanced with a plethora of batting options. Team India has consistently highly esteemed this viewpoint for many years. The next generation likewise guarantees a decent future for the 'Men In Blue' and among those is Abhimanyu Easwaran.&nbsp;

He burst on to the scene for certain stupendous exhibitions against solid teams like Mumbai and Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;Life couldn't have been something more, there was a hustling clamoring cricket institute set up by his dad 6 years before he was even conceived. There was solace, there was comfort, however, Abhimanyu decided to stay cramped and gave his all, without fail.

The right-hand opening batsman had a guard 2018-19 Ranji Trophy season wherein he notched up 861 runs from six matches at a normal of 95.66 with a most noteworthy score of 201*. On the eighteenth of July, the Cricket Association of Bengal remunerated his adventures with 'Best Cricketer of the Year'. With an eye on turning into an all-format player, the adolescent has placed in a great deal of difficult work. Every one of these endeavors has seen him ascend in the line for the opening batsmen spots for the test team.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sl-vs-ind-hardik-pandya-shikhar-dhawan-locked-in-two-way-battle-for-india-captaincy-384332" hreflang="en">SL vs IND: Hardik Pandya, Shikhar Dhawan locked in two-way battle for India captaincy</a>

Abhimanyu Easwaran has been named as a backup for the impending World Test Championship finale and five-match Test series against England. What's more, this comes as an immense lift for the Bengal Ranji team skipper since it shows the public selectors have been watching out for his advancement.

In a conversation with ANI, Abhimanyu Easwaran opened up on his expectations from the UK visit and what he has gained from any semblance of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma by watching them intently in nets sessions.

"Really excited and really delighted about the selection. For me, it will be more important to learn as much as I can and picking cues from other players who are really experienced and have been performing at the highest level for a long time. I guess it is just about becoming a better player when I come back," he said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/javed-miandad-lambasts-pcbs-plans-to-resume-psl-amid-covid-19-pandemic-384303" hreflang="en">Javed Miandad lambasts PCB's plans to resume PSL amid COVID-19 pandemic</a>

"I think the intensity of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli at practice was amazing to watch. Everybody's preparations were very specific on what they needed to do in the game. That was really important learning and they were very precise on what they wanted from the practice. I think that was good learning for me.

"There were few interactions about the preparation and how specific they were, the intensity at practice. These learnings were very important for me and how clear they were about the game plans they would have the next day. As we saw after the second Test, the wickets were turning quite a bit so I saw they were pretty clear in terms of the game plan and to see them do exactly that on the next day in the ground was pretty amazing," - he added.

"I guess it was more about playing white-ball cricket because we did not have red-ball cricket this year. When I was with the Indian team and a week before that also, I started working on my red-ball game and for the past 10-12 days, I have been working on the long format. It is about bringing that discipline back.” – on how difficult it would be adjusting to red-ball cricket since Ranji cricket was scheduled this year due to the COVID outbreak.

"In ODI cricket, you tend to attack a bit more and there are balls in ODIs which you attack which probably would leave in Test cricket, it is about having that balance and just being disciplined about my batting," he added.

Talking about the difficulties of bio-bubble in the present age, Easwaran said: "It is a part of life now. A week's quarantine first, you stay inside your rooms, you are not allowed to go out, sometimes that helps you also. Anyway, there is a lot of cricket going on so you get a week to yourself and you can relax and you can train inside your rooms.”&nbsp;

"After a week, you get to meet your teammates; you are allowed to go to the team room. That is not such a big issue but not being able to go out, that's difficult, but it is a part of life now, so we have to adjust," he concluded. 
&nbsp;

The Indian cricket team is really fortunate to be enhanced with a plethora of batting options. Team India has consistently highly esteemed this viewpoint for many years.

The Indian cricket team is really fortunate to be enhanced with a plethora of batting options. Team India has consistently highly esteemed this viewpoint for many years. The next generation likewise guarantees a decent future for the 'Men In Blue' and among those is Abhimanyu Easwaran. He burst on to the scene for certain stupendous exhibitions against solid teams like Mumbai and Tamil Nadu. Life couldn't have been something more, there was a hustling clamoring cricket institute set up by his dad 6 years before he was even conceived. There was solace, there was comfort, however, Abhimanyu decided to stay cramped and gave his all, without fail. The right-hand opening batsman had a guard 2018-19 Ranji Trophy season wherein he notched up 861 runs from six matches at a normal of 95.66 with a most noteworthy score of 201*. On the eighteenth of July, the Cricket Association of Bengal remunerated his adventures with 'Best Cricketer of the Year'. With an eye on turning into an all-format player, the adolescent has placed in a great deal of difficult work. Every one of these endeavors has seen him ascend in the line for the opening batsmen spots for the test team. ALSO READ: SL vs IND: Hardik Pandya, Shikhar Dhawan locked in two-way battle for India captaincy Abhimanyu Easwaran has been named as a backup for the impending World Test Championship finale and five-match Test series against England. What's more, this comes as an immense lift for the Bengal Ranji team skipper since it shows the public selectors have been watching out for his advancement. In a conversation with ANI, Abhimanyu Easwaran opened up on his expectations from the UK visit and what he has gained from any semblance of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma by watching them intently in nets sessions. "Really excited and really delighted about the selection. For me, it will be more important to learn as much as I can and picking cues from other players who are really experienced and have been performing at the highest level for a long time. I guess it is just about becoming a better player when I come back," he said. ALSO READ: Javed Miandad lambasts PCB's plans to resume PSL amid COVID-19 pandemic "I think the intensity of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli at practice was amazing to watch. Everybody's preparations were very specific on what they needed to do in the game. That was really important learning and they were very precise on what they wanted from the practice. I think that was good learning for me. "There were few interactions about the preparation and how specific they were, the intensity at practice. These learnings were very important for me and how clear they were about the game plans they would have the next day. As we saw after the second Test, the wickets were turning quite a bit so I saw they were pretty clear in terms of the game plan and to see them do exactly that on the next day in the ground was pretty amazing," - he added. "I guess it was more about playing white-ball cricket because we did not have red-ball cricket this year. When I was with the Indian team and a week before that also, I started working on my red-ball game and for the past 10-12 days, I have been working on the long format. It is about bringing that discipline back.” – on how difficult it would be adjusting to red-ball cricket since Ranji cricket was scheduled this year due to the COVID outbreak. "In ODI cricket, you tend to attack a bit more and there are balls in ODIs which you attack which probably would leave in Test cricket, it is about having that balance and just being disciplined about my batting," he added. Talking about the difficulties of bio-bubble in the present age, Easwaran said: "It is a part of life now. A week's quarantine first, you stay inside your rooms, you are not allowed to go out, sometimes that helps you also. Anyway, there is a lot of cricket going on so you get a week to yourself and you can relax and you can train inside your rooms.” "After a week, you get to meet your teammates; you are allowed to go to the team room. That is not such a big issue but not being able to go out, that's difficult, but it is a part of life now, so we have to adjust," he concluded.

Virat and Rohit's intensity in training, execution perfect lesson: Abhimanyu Easwaran

The battle to remain in Spain’s top-flight this season has been nothing short of a thriller. While the top four sides in LaLiga continue to their battle for the coveted trophy, at least six teams are fiercely fighting to save their status in LaLiga in what has been a relentless relegation battle in Spain. <o:p></o:p>

On Tuesday, Elche will take on Alaves as another humdinger awaits the football fans in LaLiga’s relegation battle. While Elche are 19th in the league with 30 points in 35 matches, Alaves are sitting 16th - just outside the relegation zone - with 34 points in 35 matches in LaLiga.<o:p></o:p>

However, with not much to separate between the bottom-ranked sides in LaLiga, Elche will have both Real Valladolid and Alaves in their sights. Elche bagged a crucial win over Levante but have since lost to Atletico Madrid and Real Sociedad to hover in the relegation zone.

<h2 class="MsoNormal"><o:p>Elche optimistic of surviving&nbsp;relegation:&nbsp;Fran Escriba</o:p></h2>

The Fran Escriba-managed outfit was promoted to LaLiga last season and will finish their 2020-21 campaign against Cadiz and Atletico Bilbao. However, a defeat to Alaves will leave them in a spot of bother. <o:p></o:p>

“Apart from our game, the most important one, they didn’t go against us. The results didn’t go in our favour, but neither did they go against. We have the same options and we are 6 teams in there. Obviously, the ones that have some more points have better chances. But I think we are all quite even, with a match less to go. And obviously, that makes the game. Being a direct rival, who we would overtake in the table in case of winning, it makes it a “great final”, because we had already said that the games would be finals. In the end, it affects the only team that is competing with us directly,” Elche manager Fran Escriba told WION as shared by LaLiga.

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<o:p><img alt="Elche" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="62ce482d-cfbc-4c53-a733-4d8fb62e7663" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_94X27T.jpg" /></o:p>

Has the defeat to Real Sociedad really dented Elche’s confidence when it comes to grinding out results to save themselves from the drop? Escriba reckons the results of other teams over the weekend have cheered the squad a little bit and the optimism is going to play a major role in defining their season.<o:p></o:p>

“The disappointment of Friday, after a game in which we couldn’t do much more than we did, play a very good game in terms of will and order and so but it got conditioned right from the start. The team was not left highly affected, but it’s a defeat, although it was a conditioned one. But it’s true that the results on Saturday and Sunday have cheered us a bit. If we kept believing on Friday, obviously after the results that have left it all more or less the same, obviously, we have that optimism that people give us. Because on the streets people transmit optimism and confidence in the team, and that’s also there among&nbsp;the group,” Escriba added.

<o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, Alaves will head into the much-awaited clash on the back of a 2-2 draw against Levante on Saturday. Manager Javier Calleja, who has been in charge of Alaves since the start of April, has made a mark in the LaLiga while winning two, drawing three and losing just one of his six matches.

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<h2 class="MsoNormal">We only know how to play to win: Javier Calleja</h2>

El Glorioso are in their fifth straight season at this level of football and had finished ninth, 14th and 11th before ending the 2019-20 campaign in the 16th spot. However, they are currently 16th in the table and are just two clear of 18th-ranked Huesca and could be in trouble with a defeat against Elche.

<img alt="Alaves" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ff20c7ff-eb55-43ae-8a4c-2a0b03179259" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Alaves.JPG" />

<o:p></o:p>

Notably, Alaves have two tough outings to close the LaLiga season as they host Granada and then face Sevilla in the final matchday.<o:p></o:p>

“It’s a really important game. We play against a direct rival, and in case of a victory, we would leave them 5 points behind with 6 left to play. So, of course, it is a fundamental game. We face it like a final, like so many others we have lived since I am here. But we know there is less time left now,” Calleja told WION as shared by LaLiga.<o:p></o:p>

“We don’t know how to play to not lose, we only know how to play to win. It’s my mindset. I don’t know how to face a game to draw. So, what I try to teach the team is not to speculate. We have to focus on the game, on what we have to do during 90 minutes and not go out and wait for it and let minutes go by and let the opponents gain terrain and feel comfortable. We have to aim for victory. We have to know how to play and be intelligent and have a cold mind. But we can’t let the minutes go by without anything happening,” the Alaves manager&nbsp;added.<o:p></o:p>

So who will bag the crucial win in the match between Elche and Alaves as the battle in the relegation zone heats up? Watch Elche CF vs Deportivo Alaves on Tuesday at 11:30 PM on Facebook Watch.<o:p></o:p>

The battle to remain in Spain’s top-flight this season has been nothing short of a thriller. While the top four sides in LaLiga continue to their battle for the coveted trophy, at least six teams are fiercely fighting to save their status in LaLiga in what has been a relentless relegation battle in Spain.

The battle to remain in Spain’s top-flight this season has been nothing short of a thriller. While the top four sides in LaLiga continue to their battle for the coveted trophy, at least six teams are fiercely fighting to save their status in LaLiga in what has been a relentless relegation battle in Spain. On Tuesday, Elche will take on Alaves as another humdinger awaits the football fans in LaLiga’s relegation battle. While Elche are 19th in the league with 30 points in 35 matches, Alaves are sitting 16th - just outside the relegation zone - with 34 points in 35 matches in LaLiga. However, with not much to separate between the bottom-ranked sides in LaLiga, Elche will have both Real Valladolid and Alaves in their sights. Elche bagged a crucial win over Levante but have since lost to Atletico Madrid and Real Sociedad to hover in the relegation zone. Elche optimistic of surviving relegation: Fran Escriba The Fran Escriba-managed outfit was promoted to LaLiga last season and will finish their 2020-21 campaign against Cadiz and Atletico Bilbao. However, a defeat to Alaves will leave them in a spot of bother. “Apart from our game, the most important one, they didn’t go against us. The results didn’t go in our favour, but neither did they go against. We have the same options and we are 6 teams in there. Obviously, the ones that have some more points have better chances. But I think we are all quite even, with a match less to go. And obviously, that makes the game. Being a direct rival, who we would overtake in the table in case of winning, it makes it a “great final”, because we had already said that the games would be finals. In the end, it affects the only team that is competing with us directly,” Elche manager Fran Escriba told WION as shared by LaLiga. ALSO READ: Spain legend Iniesta to stay with Japan's Kobe for two more years Has the defeat to Real Sociedad really dented Elche’s confidence when it comes to grinding out results to save themselves from the drop? Escriba reckons the results of other teams over the weekend have cheered the squad a little bit and the optimism is going to play a major role in defining their season. “The disappointment of Friday, after a game in which we couldn’t do much more than we did, play a very good game in terms of will and order and so but it got conditioned right from the start. The team was not left highly affected, but it’s a defeat, although it was a conditioned one. But it’s true that the results on Saturday and Sunday have cheered us a bit. If we kept believing on Friday, obviously after the results that have left it all more or less the same, obviously, we have that optimism that people give us. Because on the streets people transmit optimism and confidence in the team, and that’s also there among the group,” Escriba added. Meanwhile, Alaves will head into the much-awaited clash on the back of a 2-2 draw against Levante on Saturday. Manager Javier Calleja, who has been in charge of Alaves since the start of April, has made a mark in the LaLiga while winning two, drawing three and losing just one of his six matches. ALSO READ: Zinedine Zidane bewildered by handball decision as Real title hopes slip We only know how to play to win: Javier Calleja El Glorioso are in their fifth straight season at this level of football and had finished ninth, 14th and 11th before ending the 2019-20 campaign in the 16th spot. However, they are currently 16th in the table and are just two clear of 18th-ranked Huesca and could be in trouble with a defeat against Elche. Notably, Alaves have two tough outings to close the LaLiga season as they host Granada and then face Sevilla in the final matchday. “It’s a really important game. We play against a direct rival, and in case of a victory, we would leave them 5 points behind with 6 left to play. So, of course, it is a fundamental game. We face it like a final, like so many others we have lived since I am here. But we know there is less time left now,” Calleja told WION as shared by LaLiga. “We don’t know how to play to not lose, we only know how to play to win. It’s my mindset. I don’t know how to face a game to draw. So, what I try to teach the team is not to speculate. We have to focus on the game, on what we have to do during 90 minutes and not go out and wait for it and let minutes go by and let the opponents gain terrain and feel comfortable. We have to aim for victory. We have to know how to play and be intelligent and have a cold mind. But we can’t let the minutes go by without anything happening,” the Alaves manager added. So who will bag the crucial win in the match between Elche and Alaves as the battle in the relegation zone heats up? Watch Elche CF vs Deportivo Alaves on Tuesday at 11:30 PM on Facebook Watch.

Elche vs Alaves: Battle for survival heats up in LaLiga as two head coaches keep calm

Veteran opener Shikhar Dhawan and all-rounder Hardik Pandya are being touted as the captaincy options for Team India if Shreyas Iyer doesn’t get fit for the white-ball series against Sri Lanka in July.<o:p></o:p>

India’s limited-overs specialists will head to the island nation to play three T20Is and as many ODIs against Sri Lanka in the second half of July. Interestingly, the big guns like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah among others will be in England for a five-match Test series. <o:p></o:p>

"It is still not clear if Shreyas will recover fully and will be match-fit in time for tour of Sri Lanka. Normally, a surgery of this scale along with rest, extensive rehab and training to get back in shape takes around four months," a senior BCCI source privy to selection matters told PTI on conditions of anonymity.<o:p></o:p>

"In case Shreyas was available, he would have been the automatic choice for captaincy."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-hugged-and-consoled-me-when-i-was-crying-at-my-hotel-room-in-australia-mohammed-siraj-384298" hreflang="en">Virat Kohli hugged and consoled me when I was crying at my hotel room in Australia: Mohammed Siraj</a>

While Dhawan has been in-form for Delhi Capitals in last two IPLs, Hardik Pandya has come as one of the most important parts of the Indian team in the shortest format. <o:p></o:p>

"Shikhar has had two very good IPL including this curtailed one and being the senior most among those who are available for selection, he is a very strong contender. Also he has been a solid performer for India for past eight years," an official said. <o:p></o:p>

"Yes, Hardik hasn't been regularly bowling for MI or India in recent times. However, he is the man with x-factor and among options available. He is miles ahead of his peers in terms of being an impact performer. And who knows, maybe extra responsibility brings the best out of him."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bamboo-bats-could-be-an-innovative-weapon-but-mcc-rejects-it-says-it-will-be-illegal-384262" hreflang="en">Bamboo bats could be an innovative weapon, but MCC rejects it, says it will be illegal</a><o:p></o:p>

Hardik was in the squad for the four-Test series against England to monitor his bowling workload but a flared up shoulder and back issues mean he is unlikely to bowl more than a couple of overs in white-ball cricket. <o:p></o:p>

"Hardik, after his back surgery to cure stress fracture, is not the same bowler anymore. He was a fast-medium bowler before injury but to bowl at a brisk 135 kmph plus pace consistently, it could impact his back.<o:p></o:p>

"So he is focussing more on his match finishing skills," a person in the know of things told PTI.

<o:p>(With inputs from agencies)</o:p>

Veteran opener Shikhar Dhawan and all-rounder Hardik Pandya are being touted as the captaincy options for Team India if Shreyas Iyer doesn’t get fit for the white-ball series against Sri Lanka in July.

Veteran opener Shikhar Dhawan and all-rounder Hardik Pandya are being touted as the captaincy options for Team India if Shreyas Iyer doesn’t get fit for the white-ball series against Sri Lanka in July. India’s limited-overs specialists will head to the island nation to play three T20Is and as many ODIs against Sri Lanka in the second half of July. Interestingly, the big guns like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah among others will be in England for a five-match Test series. "It is still not clear if Shreyas will recover fully and will be match-fit in time for tour of Sri Lanka. Normally, a surgery of this scale along with rest, extensive rehab and training to get back in shape takes around four months," a senior BCCI source privy to selection matters told PTI on conditions of anonymity. "In case Shreyas was available, he would have been the automatic choice for captaincy." ALSO READ: Virat Kohli hugged and consoled me when I was crying at my hotel room in Australia: Mohammed Siraj While Dhawan has been in-form for Delhi Capitals in last two IPLs, Hardik Pandya has come as one of the most important parts of the Indian team in the shortest format. "Shikhar has had two very good IPL including this curtailed one and being the senior most among those who are available for selection, he is a very strong contender. Also he has been a solid performer for India for past eight years," an official said. "Yes, Hardik hasn't been regularly bowling for MI or India in recent times. However, he is the man with x-factor and among options available. He is miles ahead of his peers in terms of being an impact performer. And who knows, maybe extra responsibility brings the best out of him." ALSO READ: Bamboo bats could be an innovative weapon, but MCC rejects it, says it will be illegal Hardik was in the squad for the four-Test series against England to monitor his bowling workload but a flared up shoulder and back issues mean he is unlikely to bowl more than a couple of overs in white-ball cricket. "Hardik, after his back surgery to cure stress fracture, is not the same bowler anymore. He was a fast-medium bowler before injury but to bowl at a brisk 135 kmph plus pace consistently, it could impact his back. "So he is focussing more on his match finishing skills," a person in the know of things told PTI. (With inputs from agencies)

SL vs IND: Hardik Pandya, Shikhar Dhawan locked in two-way battle for India captaincy

The recent success of younger players on the men's tour points to an "inevitable" shift at the top of the ATP rankings, said world number one Novak Djokovic.

The last four ATP Masters 1000 events -- the most prestigious tournaments outside the Grand Slams&nbsp;have been won by players outside the 'Big Three' of Djokovic, Rafa Nadal, and Roger Federer.

Russian Daniil Medvedev, 25, won the ATP Finals and the Paris Masters titles last year and has already displaced Spaniard Nadal from the second spot.

Hubert Hurkacz, Stefanos Tsitsipas, and Alexander Zverev have won the three Masters events this year with Greek Tsitsipas the youngest of them at 22.

Djokovic, 33, told reporters at the Rome Masters on Monday that the results showed there was a generational shift underway.

"There are guys like Tsitsipas, Zverev, (Matteo) Berrettini, (Andrey) Rublev that are winning against all of us and playing a lot and building their ranking points," he added.

"Medvedev as well, of course, and challenging for the top spots. Dominic Thiem has been there for many years.

"It's inevitable that it's going to happen. The change on the men's rankings, top of the rankings is coming. Whether it's going to happen in a month or a year or whatever, I don't know."

While the 39-year-old Federer missed most of the last 14 months due to knee problems, Djokovic passed his record for the most weeks as world number one in March.

But the Serbian, who has won 18 Grand Slam titles, is more focused on chasing down the 20 major wins of Federer and the 34-year-old Nadal.

"I'm not personally paying too much attention anymore to the rankings as much as I am to my game for the Grand Slams," he said. "Those are the biggest focus tournaments right now at this stage of my career."

Djokovic has made changes to his schedule to spend more time with his family and since his Melbourne win has only played the Monte Carlo Masters and an event at home in Belgrade.

He will wind up his preparations for the French Open, which starts at the end of the month, with this week's Rome Masters and another ATP event in Belgrade.

"Four tournaments before French is I think enough in terms of the match play," he said. "So I'm building my fitness and I'm building just my game slowly step by step in order to peak in Paris. That's definitely where I want to play my best."

The recent success of younger players on the men's tour points to an "inevitable" shift at the top of the ATP rankings, said world number one Novak Djokovic. The last four ATP Masters 1000 events -- the most prestigious tournaments outside the Grand Slams have been won by players outside the 'Big Three' of Djokovic, Rafa Nadal, and Roger Federer.

The recent success of younger players on the men's tour points to an "inevitable" shift at the top of the ATP rankings, said world number one Novak Djokovic. The last four ATP Masters 1000 events -- the most prestigious tournaments outside the Grand Slams have been won by players outside the 'Big Three' of Djokovic, Rafa Nadal, and Roger Federer. Russian Daniil Medvedev, 25, won the ATP Finals and the Paris Masters titles last year and has already displaced Spaniard Nadal from the second spot. Hubert Hurkacz, Stefanos Tsitsipas, and Alexander Zverev have won the three Masters events this year with Greek Tsitsipas the youngest of them at 22. Djokovic, 33, told reporters at the Rome Masters on Monday that the results showed there was a generational shift underway. "There are guys like Tsitsipas, Zverev, (Matteo) Berrettini, (Andrey) Rublev that are winning against all of us and playing a lot and building their ranking points," he added. "Medvedev as well, of course, and challenging for the top spots. Dominic Thiem has been there for many years. "It's inevitable that it's going to happen. The change on the men's rankings, top of the rankings is coming. Whether it's going to happen in a month or a year or whatever, I don't know." While the 39-year-old Federer missed most of the last 14 months due to knee problems, Djokovic passed his record for the most weeks as world number one in March. But the Serbian, who has won 18 Grand Slam titles, is more focused on chasing down the 20 major wins of Federer and the 34-year-old Nadal. "I'm not personally paying too much attention anymore to the rankings as much as I am to my game for the Grand Slams," he said. "Those are the biggest focus tournaments right now at this stage of my career." Djokovic has made changes to his schedule to spend more time with his family and since his Melbourne win has only played the Monte Carlo Masters and an event at home in Belgrade. He will wind up his preparations for the French Open, which starts at the end of the month, with this week's Rome Masters and another ATP event in Belgrade. "Four tournaments before French is I think enough in terms of the match play," he said. "So I'm building my fitness and I'm building just my game slowly step by step in order to peak in Paris. That's definitely where I want to play my best."

'Change is coming to the rankings, it's inevitable': World's no.1 Novak Djokovic

Javed Miandad has criticised the Pakistan Cricket Board for wanting to continue the Pakistan Super League in the midst of the COVID-19 circumstance in the country. The T20 competition was suspended in March because of an outbreak of the virus inside the teams' bio-secure bubble.&nbsp;

The Pakistan Cricket Board is hoping to continue the PSL in June. Nonetheless, Pakistan legend Javed Miandad is firmly against the thought and encouraged the board to scrap such plans.

"This is not the time to play cricket, it's time to save lives. In these times of crisis, we should be more focused on saving lives rather than playing cricket. The whole world has been affected by the coronavirus. India, where the World Cup was supposed to take place, is also severely affected by the epidemic," Javed Miandad told CricketPakistan.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-hugged-and-consoled-me-when-i-was-crying-at-my-hotel-room-in-australia-mohammed-siraj-384298" hreflang="en">Virat Kohli hugged and consoled me when I was crying at my hotel room in Australia: Mohammed Siraj</a>

The former cricketer said that the PCB is undermining players' lives for monetary profits by intending to continue the PSL.

"They are risking the lives of several individuals for their own financial gains. If it was in my hands, I would not take the big risk of organizing the remaining PSL matches. If they hold this event and face problems, then who will be responsible?” he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csks-michael-hussey-returns-covid-19-positive-again-to-remain-in-india-384280" hreflang="en">CSK's Michael Hussey returns COVID-19 positive again, to remain in India</a>

The Pakistan Super League was pulled up after each team played around four to five games. Reigning champions Karachi Kings drove the points table dependent on their predominant net run rate before the competition was suspended. Upwards of four teams were bolted on six points and it was hard to pick a champion side in the opposition.&nbsp;

Following&nbsp;the Zimbabwe visit, Pakistan don't have any worldwide tasks up until July, when they face England for three T20Is and three ODIs. The PCB is hoping to continue the Pakistan Super League inside now and in July. In any case, it has effectively pulled in certain downers, with Javed Miandad immovably against the resumption of the league. 
&nbsp;

Javed Miandad has criticised the Pakistan Cricket Board for wanting to continue the Pakistan Super League in the midst of the COVID-19 circumstance in the country.

Javed Miandad has criticised the Pakistan Cricket Board for wanting to continue the Pakistan Super League in the midst of the COVID-19 circumstance in the country. The T20 competition was suspended in March because of an outbreak of the virus inside the teams' bio-secure bubble. The Pakistan Cricket Board is hoping to continue the PSL in June. Nonetheless, Pakistan legend Javed Miandad is firmly against the thought and encouraged the board to scrap such plans. "This is not the time to play cricket, it's time to save lives. In these times of crisis, we should be more focused on saving lives rather than playing cricket. The whole world has been affected by the coronavirus. India, where the World Cup was supposed to take place, is also severely affected by the epidemic," Javed Miandad told CricketPakistan. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli hugged and consoled me when I was crying at my hotel room in Australia: Mohammed Siraj The former cricketer said that the PCB is undermining players' lives for monetary profits by intending to continue the PSL. "They are risking the lives of several individuals for their own financial gains. If it was in my hands, I would not take the big risk of organizing the remaining PSL matches. If they hold this event and face problems, then who will be responsible?” he added. ALSO READ: CSK's Michael Hussey returns COVID-19 positive again, to remain in India The Pakistan Super League was pulled up after each team played around four to five games. Reigning champions Karachi Kings drove the points table dependent on their predominant net run rate before the competition was suspended. Upwards of four teams were bolted on six points and it was hard to pick a champion side in the opposition. Following the Zimbabwe visit, Pakistan don't have any worldwide tasks up until July, when they face England for three T20Is and three ODIs. The PCB is hoping to continue the Pakistan Super League inside now and in July. In any case, it has effectively pulled in certain downers, with Javed Miandad immovably against the resumption of the league.

Javed Miandad lambasts PCB's plans to resume PSL amid COVID-19 pandemic

Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj has enjoyed a rapid rise in international cricket and the right-arm speedster has found tremendous support from the India and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) skipper Virat Kohli. Siraj has revealed how Kohli has been his support system through the thick and thin of his career as he recalled a heartwarming moment from India’s historic tour of Australia.<o:p></o:p>

Siraj was one of the pick of the bowlers for Team India in the tour of Australia as he led the attack in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah and other senior members of the pace battery. The Indian quick went on to scalp 13 wickets in three matches but had a difficult start to the Australia tour as he lost his father right after landing in Down Under.<o:p></o:p>

The Indian pacer has now revealed how Virat Kohli consoled Siraj when he saw him crying in his hotel room after the news was given to him that his father was no more.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-looks-a-really-strong-squad-parthiv-patel-believes-team-india-is-stronger-than-new-zealand-384229" hreflang="en">WTC Final: 'Looks a really strong squad' - Parthiv Patel believes Team India is stronger than New Zealand</a>

"Virat bhaiya always says -- you have the ability, the ability to play on any wicket and get rid of any batsman," Siraj told The Times of India.<o:p></o:p>

"I had lost my father during the Australia series. I was shattered and not really in my senses. It was Virat bhaiya who gave me strength and support. I owe my career to Virat.<o:p></o:p>

"Virat has supported me through thick and thin. He has always been there for me in all circumstances. I remember how I was crying in the hotel room. Virat bhaiya came to my room and hugged me tightly and said 'I am with you, don't worry'. Those words encouraged me a lot. He played just one Test on the tour but his messages and calls motivated me," he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-players-unlikely-to-feature-in-rescheduled-ipl-hints-ashley-giles-384239" hreflang="en">England players unlikely to feature in rescheduled IPL, hints Ashley Giles</a><o:p></o:p>

Siraj continued his lethal run of form in IPL 2021 and the pacer further revealed how Kohli motivated him for upcoming India’s tour of England. <o:p></o:p>

"Recently, after our match vs CSK (in now-suspended IPL 2021), Virat bhaiya came and said 'the changes you have brought about in your bowling are amazing. It will be benefiting our team. Be ready for the England tour. All the best'. These words from one of the best captains in the world motivate me a lot," Siraj said.<o:p></o:p>

Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj has enjoyed a rapid rise in international cricket and the right-arm speedster has found tremendous support from the India and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) skipper Virat Kohli.

Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj has enjoyed a rapid rise in international cricket and the right-arm speedster has found tremendous support from the India and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) skipper Virat Kohli. Siraj has revealed how Kohli has been his support system through the thick and thin of his career as he recalled a heartwarming moment from India’s historic tour of Australia. Siraj was one of the pick of the bowlers for Team India in the tour of Australia as he led the attack in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah and other senior members of the pace battery. The Indian quick went on to scalp 13 wickets in three matches but had a difficult start to the Australia tour as he lost his father right after landing in Down Under. The Indian pacer has now revealed how Virat Kohli consoled Siraj when he saw him crying in his hotel room after the news was given to him that his father was no more. ALSO READ: WTC Final: 'Looks a really strong squad' - Parthiv Patel believes Team India is stronger than New Zealand "Virat bhaiya always says -- you have the ability, the ability to play on any wicket and get rid of any batsman," Siraj told The Times of India. "I had lost my father during the Australia series. I was shattered and not really in my senses. It was Virat bhaiya who gave me strength and support. I owe my career to Virat. "Virat has supported me through thick and thin. He has always been there for me in all circumstances. I remember how I was crying in the hotel room. Virat bhaiya came to my room and hugged me tightly and said 'I am with you, don't worry'. Those words encouraged me a lot. He played just one Test on the tour but his messages and calls motivated me," he added. ALSO READ: England players unlikely to feature in rescheduled IPL, hints Ashley Giles Siraj continued his lethal run of form in IPL 2021 and the pacer further revealed how Kohli motivated him for upcoming India’s tour of England. "Recently, after our match vs CSK (in now-suspended IPL 2021), Virat bhaiya came and said 'the changes you have brought about in your bowling are amazing. It will be benefiting our team. Be ready for the England tour. All the best'. These words from one of the best captains in the world motivate me a lot," Siraj said.

Virat Kohli hugged and consoled me when I was crying at my hotel room in Australia: Mohammed Siraj

Sri Lanka Cricket is ready for a new beginning in the ODI format and for this, the new captain and vice-captain of the team have been appointed. Sri Lanka Cricket has announced an 18-member squad that will go on to play three ODIs in Bangladesh. Wicketkeeper-batsman Kusal Perera, who has dropped from the team a few months prior, has now been appointed as the new captain. Perera will now be the captain instead of Dimuth Karunaratne.

Kusal Perera, a vital individual from the 2014 ICC World Twenty20 winning team, made his One-day international debut against Australia in the second ODI on January 13, 2013, replacing the injured Dinesh Chandimal. He has played 101 ODIs and amassed 2825 runs averaging 31.04 other than highlighting in 19 Tests and 46 T20Is.

Subsequent to losing the three-match ODI series against West Indies, questions were raised about skipper Dimuth Karunaratne's spot in the ODI squad. Similarly, there were questions on the place of several senior team members like Angelo Mathews, Dinesh Chandimal, and Lahiru Thirimane. Simultaneously, Thisara Perera retired from international cricket at the age of 32. The all-rounder's choice to retire came in the wake of reports that Sri Lankan selectors are thinking about dropping a few senior cricketers, including Thisara Perera, from the ODI side.

Presently it has been straightforwardly uncovered that every one of these senior players lacks a spot in the team, which will go to Bangladesh. A couple of days prior, there were reports that there are discussions about the expulsion of Dimuth Karunaratne as ODI skipper. Not long before the 2019 World Cup, Karunaratne was named as the one-day captain as Sri Lanka performed better in the Test under his initiative.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-players-unlikely-to-feature-in-rescheduled-ipl-hints-ashley-giles-384239" hreflang="en">England players unlikely to feature in rescheduled IPL, hints Ashley Giles</a>

Kusal Mendis has been made the vice skipper of Sri Lanka. Skipper and vice-captain have been chosen while keeping the&nbsp;2023 World Cup in mind. Notwithstanding, no declaration has been made about T20 International's captaincy. Kusal Mendis has played 76 ODIs scoring 2167 runs averaging 30.52 other than including in 47 Tests and 26 T20Is.

Sri Lanka introduced new faces as Shiran Fernando, Chamika Karunaratne, Binura Fernando, and Asith Fernando. Simultaneously, Danushka Gunathilaka, Vanindu Hasranga, and Eshen Bandara who have performed splendidly on the Caribbean visit have figured out how to hold their place.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-looks-a-really-strong-squad-parthiv-patel-believes-team-india-is-stronger-than-new-zealand-384229" hreflang="en">WTC Final: 'Looks a really strong squad' - Parthiv Patel believes Team India is stronger than New Zealand</a>

Symptom Sandakan and Ramesh Mendis have additionally been added, which will fortify the spin department. The three ODIs between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh will be played at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Dhaka on May 23rd, 25th, and 28th.

Sri Lanka’s 18-member ODI squad: Kusal Perera (C), Kusal Mendis (VC), Danushka Gunathilaka, Pathum Nissanka, Dhananjaya de Silva, Ashen Bandara, Niroshan Dickwella, Dasun Shanka, Isuru Udana, Dushmantha Chameera, Ramesh Mendis, Lakshan Sandakan, Akila Dhananjaya, Wanindu Hasaranga, Chamika Karunaratne, Asitha Fernando, Binura Fernando, Shiran Fernando. 
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Sri Lanka Cricket is ready for a new beginning in the ODI format and for this, the new captain and vice-captain of the team have been appointed. Sri Lanka Cricket has announced an 18-member squad that will go on to play three ODIs in Bangladesh.

Sri Lanka Cricket is ready for a new beginning in the ODI format and for this, the new captain and vice-captain of the team have been appointed. Sri Lanka Cricket has announced an 18-member squad that will go on to play three ODIs in Bangladesh. Wicketkeeper-batsman Kusal Perera, who has dropped from the team a few months prior, has now been appointed as the new captain. Perera will now be the captain instead of Dimuth Karunaratne. Kusal Perera, a vital individual from the 2014 ICC World Twenty20 winning team, made his One-day international debut against Australia in the second ODI on January 13, 2013, replacing the injured Dinesh Chandimal. He has played 101 ODIs and amassed 2825 runs averaging 31.04 other than highlighting in 19 Tests and 46 T20Is. Subsequent to losing the three-match ODI series against West Indies, questions were raised about skipper Dimuth Karunaratne's spot in the ODI squad. Similarly, there were questions on the place of several senior team members like Angelo Mathews, Dinesh Chandimal, and Lahiru Thirimane. Simultaneously, Thisara Perera retired from international cricket at the age of 32. The all-rounder's choice to retire came in the wake of reports that Sri Lankan selectors are thinking about dropping a few senior cricketers, including Thisara Perera, from the ODI side. Presently it has been straightforwardly uncovered that every one of these senior players lacks a spot in the team, which will go to Bangladesh. A couple of days prior, there were reports that there are discussions about the expulsion of Dimuth Karunaratne as ODI skipper. Not long before the 2019 World Cup, Karunaratne was named as the one-day captain as Sri Lanka performed better in the Test under his initiative. ALSO READ: England players unlikely to feature in rescheduled IPL, hints Ashley Giles Kusal Mendis has been made the vice skipper of Sri Lanka. Skipper and vice-captain have been chosen while keeping the 2023 World Cup in mind. Notwithstanding, no declaration has been made about T20 International's captaincy. Kusal Mendis has played 76 ODIs scoring 2167 runs averaging 30.52 other than including in 47 Tests and 26 T20Is. Sri Lanka introduced new faces as Shiran Fernando, Chamika Karunaratne, Binura Fernando, and Asith Fernando. Simultaneously, Danushka Gunathilaka, Vanindu Hasranga, and Eshen Bandara who have performed splendidly on the Caribbean visit have figured out how to hold their place. ALSO READ: WTC Final: 'Looks a really strong squad' - Parthiv Patel believes Team India is stronger than New Zealand Symptom Sandakan and Ramesh Mendis have additionally been added, which will fortify the spin department. The three ODIs between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh will be played at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Dhaka on May 23rd, 25th, and 28th. Sri Lanka’s 18-member ODI squad: Kusal Perera (C), Kusal Mendis (VC), Danushka Gunathilaka, Pathum Nissanka, Dhananjaya de Silva, Ashen Bandara, Niroshan Dickwella, Dasun Shanka, Isuru Udana, Dushmantha Chameera, Ramesh Mendis, Lakshan Sandakan, Akila Dhananjaya, Wanindu Hasaranga, Chamika Karunaratne, Asitha Fernando, Binura Fernando, Shiran Fernando.

Kusal Perera appointed as Sri Lanka ODI captain following radical reforms

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Zee News Rajasthan

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Subhayan Chakraborty

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