Kolkata Knight Riders and England team analyst Nathan Leamon has said that there will be a “huge effort” to complete the postponed Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. The lucrative T20 tournament was halted on Tuesday after multiple COVID-19 cases emerged among the eight teams. <o:p></o:p>

A number of players and a couple of staff tested positive in the IPL bio-secure bubble and the BCCI decided to pause the tournament for the safety and welfare of everyone involved in the tournament. <o:p></o:p>

The IPL 2021 was scheduled to conclude on May 30 but the BCCI is now working to find another window later in the year. <o:p></o:p>

"There are a lot of livelihoods here that rely on it, and they don't want to put those at risk," said Leamon in the Test Match Special podcast.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-is-a-world-class-player-and-he-can-walk-into-any-team-tabraiz-shamsi-on-ab-de-villiers-possible-international-return-382979" hreflang="en">'He is a world-class player and he can walk into any team': Tabraiz Shamsi on AB de Villiers possible international return</a>

"It's just a case of whether the logistics are possible. There's talk of rescheduling. I don't know if it will come to pass. They are looking at various windows when they might be able to fit it in,” he added.<o:p></o:p>

"I'm sure there will be a huge effort made to do it."<o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, eight of the 11 England players have already landed in Heathrow on Wednesday morning and have started the mandatory 10-day quarantine period in government-approved hotels.<o:p></o:p>

The three remaining players - Eoin Morgan, Chris Jordan and Dawid Malan - are set to leave India before Friday. Morgan and Leamon are due to fly home in the early hours of Thursday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-postponed-8-england-players-return-home-remaining-3-to-fly-out-in-next-48-hours-382956" hreflang="en">IPL 2021 postponed: 8 England players return home, remaining 3 to fly out in next 48 hours</a><o:p></o:p>

When asked whether the tournament should have taken place at all or halted earlier, he added: "My view was always this is an Indian competition, run by Indians, in India, for India.<o:p></o:p>

"Judgements about what should or shouldn't happen should be left for the people for whom this matters."<o:p></o:p>

Kolkata Knight Riders and England team analyst Nathan Leamon has said that there will be a “huge effort” to complete the postponed Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021.

Kolkata Knight Riders and England team analyst Nathan Leamon has said that there will be a “huge effort” to complete the postponed Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. The lucrative T20 tournament was halted on Tuesday after multiple COVID-19 cases emerged among the eight teams. A number of players and a couple of staff tested positive in the IPL bio-secure bubble and the BCCI decided to pause the tournament for the safety and welfare of everyone involved in the tournament. The IPL 2021 was scheduled to conclude on May 30 but the BCCI is now working to find another window later in the year. "There are a lot of livelihoods here that rely on it, and they don't want to put those at risk," said Leamon in the Test Match Special podcast. ALSO READ: 'He is a world-class player and he can walk into any team': Tabraiz Shamsi on AB de Villiers possible international return "It's just a case of whether the logistics are possible. There's talk of rescheduling. I don't know if it will come to pass. They are looking at various windows when they might be able to fit it in,” he added. "I'm sure there will be a huge effort made to do it." Meanwhile, eight of the 11 England players have already landed in Heathrow on Wednesday morning and have started the mandatory 10-day quarantine period in government-approved hotels. The three remaining players - Eoin Morgan, Chris Jordan and Dawid Malan - are set to leave India before Friday. Morgan and Leamon are due to fly home in the early hours of Thursday. ALSO READ: IPL 2021 postponed: 8 England players return home, remaining 3 to fly out in next 48 hours When asked whether the tournament should have taken place at all or halted earlier, he added: "My view was always this is an Indian competition, run by Indians, in India, for India. "Judgements about what should or shouldn't happen should be left for the people for whom this matters."

There will be 'huge effort' to complete postponed IPL 2021, says KKR analyst Nathan Leamon

Fans are all set to return to Premier League stadiums for the ongoing 2020-21 season’s final two rounds of fixtures later in May. The move is subject to the United Kingdom&nbsp;government's expected easing of lockdown restrictions.<o:p></o:p>

Under the UK government’s move to come out of lockdown, crowds of up to 10,000 or 25 per cent of capacity will be permitted from May 17.<o:p></o:p>

Due to the development, the Premier League has tweaked its fixtures to ensure that each of the 20 teams get the opportunity to host at least one home with the crowd.<o:p></o:p>

Notably, the UK has inoculated 34 million people with their first vaccine dose with case numbers and hospitalisations from the COVID-19 falling rapidly.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-three-things-we-learned-from-man-city-vs-paris-saint-germain-382936" hreflang="en">Champions League: Three things we learned from Man City vs Paris Saint-Germain</a>

The entire 2020-21 English season has been played in front of empty stands barring a mini-experiment with maximum crowds of 4,000 in areas with low COVID-19 cases in December. <o:p></o:p>

"The Premier League has today confirmed that the final two Matchweeks of the 2020/21 season will be limited to home fans, subject to the Government easing lockdown restrictions in the United Kingdom," the Premier League said in a statement on Wednesday.<o:p></o:p>

"Matchweek 37 will now be played on 18-19 May, with the final matches of the season kicking off at 16:00 BST (1500GMT) on Sunday 23 May as planned."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/psg-regret-mbappe-absence-and-loss-of-discipline-in-latest-champions-league-exit-382881" hreflang="en">PSG regret Mbappe absence and loss of discipline in latest Champions League exit</a>

However, no away fans will be allowed to ease operational challenges. However, the top-flight clubs are expecting return of full stadiums from the start of next season.<o:p></o:p>

"Fans have been greatly missed at Premier League matches and this marks a key step towards full stadiums, including away fans, from the start of the 2021/22 season," added the statement.<o:p></o:p>

Leicester’s FA Cup semi-final win against Southampton hosted 4,000 fans at Wembley in April whereas 8,000 fans saw Manchester City lift the Carabao Cup on April 24. <o:p></o:p>

A crowd of 21,000 will see the FA Cup final between Leicester and Chelsea on May 15.<o:p></o:p>

Wembley is also set to host eight matches at Euro 2020 with at least 25 percent capacity.<o:p></o:p>

Fans are all set to return to Premier League stadiums for the ongoing 2020-21 season’s final two rounds of fixtures later in May. The move is subject to the United Kingdom government's expected easing of lockdown restrictions.

Fans are all set to return to Premier League stadiums for the ongoing 2020-21 season’s final two rounds of fixtures later in May. The move is subject to the United Kingdom government's expected easing of lockdown restrictions. Under the UK government’s move to come out of lockdown, crowds of up to 10,000 or 25 per cent of capacity will be permitted from May 17. Due to the development, the Premier League has tweaked its fixtures to ensure that each of the 20 teams get the opportunity to host at least one home with the crowd. Notably, the UK has inoculated 34 million people with their first vaccine dose with case numbers and hospitalisations from the COVID-19 falling rapidly. ALSO READ: Champions League: Three things we learned from Man City vs Paris Saint-Germain The entire 2020-21 English season has been played in front of empty stands barring a mini-experiment with maximum crowds of 4,000 in areas with low COVID-19 cases in December. "The Premier League has today confirmed that the final two Matchweeks of the 2020/21 season will be limited to home fans, subject to the Government easing lockdown restrictions in the United Kingdom," the Premier League said in a statement on Wednesday. "Matchweek 37 will now be played on 18-19 May, with the final matches of the season kicking off at 16:00 BST (1500GMT) on Sunday 23 May as planned." ALSO READ: PSG regret Mbappe absence and loss of discipline in latest Champions League exit However, no away fans will be allowed to ease operational challenges. However, the top-flight clubs are expecting return of full stadiums from the start of next season. "Fans have been greatly missed at Premier League matches and this marks a key step towards full stadiums, including away fans, from the start of the 2021/22 season," added the statement. Leicester’s FA Cup semi-final win against Southampton hosted 4,000 fans at Wembley in April whereas 8,000 fans saw Manchester City lift the Carabao Cup on April 24. A crowd of 21,000 will see the FA Cup final between Leicester and Chelsea on May 15. Wembley is also set to host eight matches at Euro 2020 with at least 25 percent capacity.

Premier League: Fans set to return for final two matchdays

Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez are set to come face to face this weekend for the first time since the Uruguayan left the Camp Nou for Atleti last summer. They combined for an incredible 478 goals in the six years that they played alongside each other for Barcelona.

LaLiga Special: Best friends and strike partners Messi and Suarez meet again

The biggest question after the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 was postponed indefinitely on Tuesday was how would the overseas players fly back home? With India going through a deadly second wave of COVID-19, some countries, including Australia, have banned travelers from flying back to their nation from India. However, eight out of 11 England players flew back last night and landed in London on Wednesday morning. <o:p></o:p>

Only three England players – Chris Jordan, Dawid Malan and Eoin Morgan – are still in India and expected to leave India within the next 48 hours.<o:p></o:p>

"I can confirm that 8 of the 11 England players in India managed to get on a flight to Heathrow last night and have landed this morning. They will now quarantine in government-approved hotels. The remaining three -- - Chris Jordan, David Malan (both Punjab Kings) and Eoin Morgan (Kolkata Knight Riders) should leave India within the next 48 hours," an ECB spokesman confirmed to WION.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-two-bookies-arrested-after-illegally-entering-stadium-during-rr-vs-srh-clash-382928" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Two bookies arrested after illegally entering stadium during RR vs SRH clash</a>

The likes of Moeen Ali, Sam Curran (Chennai Super Kings), Tom Curran, Chris Woakes, Sam Billings (Delhi Capitals), Jason Roy, Jonny Bairstow (Sunrisers Hyderabad) and Jos Buttler (Rajasthan Royals) have landed in the UK on Wednesday morning. <o:p></o:p>&nbsp;The players will now undergo quarantine in government-approved hotels.

<h2 class="MsoNormal"><o:p>IPL 2021 postponed after multiple COVID-19 cases</o:p></h2>

IPL 2021 was postponed indefinitely on Tuesday after numerous players and staff across teams tested positive for the dreaded virus. While two KKR players – Varun Chakaravarthy, Sandeep Warrier – returned positive, Delhi Capitals spinner Amit Mishra, Sunrisers Hyderabad’s Wriddhiman Saha, Chennai Super Kings bowling coach L Balaji and a bus cleaner also tested positive for COVID-19. On Wednesday, CSK’s Michael Hussey’s second test result came positive.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-set-to-incur-losses-of-over-usd-217-million-after-ipl-2021-postponement-382785" hreflang="en">BCCI set to incur losses of over USD 217 million after IPL 2021 postponement</a>

While the BCCI is looking for a window to conclude the postponed-IPL 2021, people in know say there is a slight possibility of the T20 tournament happening in September, before the ICC T20 World Cup.<o:p></o:p>

The biggest question after the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 was postponed indefinitely on Tuesday was how would the overseas players fly back home? With India going through a deadly second wave of COVID-19, some countries, including Australia, have banned travelers from flying back to their nation from India.

The biggest question after the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 was postponed indefinitely on Tuesday was how would the overseas players fly back home? With India going through a deadly second wave of COVID-19, some countries, including Australia, have banned travelers from flying back to their nation from India. However, eight out of 11 England players flew back last night and landed in London on Wednesday morning. Only three England players – Chris Jordan, Dawid Malan and Eoin Morgan – are still in India and expected to leave India within the next 48 hours. "I can confirm that 8 of the 11 England players in India managed to get on a flight to Heathrow last night and have landed this morning. They will now quarantine in government-approved hotels. The remaining three -- - Chris Jordan, David Malan (both Punjab Kings) and Eoin Morgan (Kolkata Knight Riders) should leave India within the next 48 hours," an ECB spokesman confirmed to WION. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Two bookies arrested after illegally entering stadium during RR vs SRH clash The likes of Moeen Ali, Sam Curran (Chennai Super Kings), Tom Curran, Chris Woakes, Sam Billings (Delhi Capitals), Jason Roy, Jonny Bairstow (Sunrisers Hyderabad) and Jos Buttler (Rajasthan Royals) have landed in the UK on Wednesday morning. The players will now undergo quarantine in government-approved hotels. IPL 2021 postponed after multiple COVID-19 cases IPL 2021 was postponed indefinitely on Tuesday after numerous players and staff across teams tested positive for the dreaded virus. While two KKR players – Varun Chakaravarthy, Sandeep Warrier – returned positive, Delhi Capitals spinner Amit Mishra, Sunrisers Hyderabad’s Wriddhiman Saha, Chennai Super Kings bowling coach L Balaji and a bus cleaner also tested positive for COVID-19. On Wednesday, CSK’s Michael Hussey’s second test result came positive. ALSO READ: BCCI set to incur losses of over USD 217 million after IPL 2021 postponement While the BCCI is looking for a window to conclude the postponed-IPL 2021, people in know say there is a slight possibility of the T20 tournament happening in September, before the ICC T20 World Cup.

IPL 2021 postponed: 8 England players return home, remaining 3 to fly out in next 48 hours

The International Cricket Council (ICC) Wednesday announced the nominees for April’s ICC Player of the Month Awards to recognise the best performances from both male and female cricketers across all forms of international cricket.

ICC Men’s Player of the Month Nominees for April: Babar Azam (Pakistan), Khushal Bhurtel (Nepal), Fakhar Zaman (Pakistan)

ICC Women’s Player of the Month Nominees for April: Alyssa Healy (Australia), Leigh Kasperek (New Zealand), Megan Schutt (Australia)

<h2>About the ICC Men’s Player of the Month Nominees for April:&nbsp;</h2>

In the month of April, Pakistan captain Babar Azam became the No.1 ranked batsman in the&nbsp;ICC Men’s ODI Player Rankings, ending India captain Virat Kohli's long reign at the top of the charts.

Babar's match-winning 82-ball 94 in the third ODI against South Africa helped him gain 13 rating points to reach a career-best 865 points. He also contributed 122 from 59 balls in Pakistan’s successful chase in the third match of a T20I series against the same opposition.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-two-bookies-arrested-after-illegally-entering-stadium-during-rr-vs-srh-clash-382928" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Two bookies arrested after illegally entering stadium during RR vs SRH clash</a>

His compatriot Fakhar Zaman also produced a stellar showing during the month, scoring two centuries in the ODI series victory over South Africa, including a magnificent 193 in the second match in Johannesburg.&nbsp;

Completing the men’s shortlist, Nepal’s Khushal Bhurtel was the leading run-scorer as his team won a tri-series also featuring the Netherlands and Malaysia. His significant contribution with the bat totalled 278 runs, including four half-centuries in five matches.

<h2>About the ICC Women’s Player of the Month Nominees for April:&nbsp;</h2>

Australia’s Alyssa Healy played three ODIs versus New Zealand, scoring 155 runs at an average of 51.66 and a strike rate of 98.72. Her efforts saw her finish as the leading run-scorer in Australia’s series victory over New Zealand that extended their record-winning streak to 24 ODIs.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-finals-kiwi-all-rounder-colin-de-grandhomme-reveals-toughest-thing-for-team-india-382905" hreflang="en">WTC finals: Kiwi all-rounder Colin de Grandhomme reveals 'toughest thing' for Team India</a>

Her teammate Megan Schutt became Australia’s leading wicket-taker in the same series, taking seven wickets at an average of 13.14.&nbsp;

New Zealand’s Leigh Kasperek played two ODIs against Australia, achieving career-best figures of six for 46 in the second match of the series, and followed this up with three more wickets in the final match, finishing with nine wickets at an average of 7.77.&nbsp;

<h2>The ICC Player of the Month voting process:&nbsp;</h2>

The three nominees for either category are shortlisted based on on-field performances and overall achievements during that month (the first to the last day of each calendar month).&nbsp;

This shortlist is then voted on by the independent ICC Voting Academy* and fans around the world. The ICC Voting Academy comprises prominent members of the cricket family including senior journalists, former players, broadcasters, and some members of the ICC Hall of Fame.&nbsp;

The Voting Academy will submit their votes by email and retain a 90 per cent share of the vote. Additionally, fans registered with the ICC will be able to vote via the ICC website once the shortlisted players are announced and will have a 10 per cent share of the vote.&nbsp;

The International Cricket Council (ICC) Wednesday announced the nominees for April’s ICC Player of the Month Awards to recognise the best performances from both male and female cricketers across all forms of international cricket.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) Wednesday announced the nominees for April’s ICC Player of the Month Awards to recognise the best performances from both male and female cricketers across all forms of international cricket. ICC Men’s Player of the Month Nominees for April: Babar Azam (Pakistan), Khushal Bhurtel (Nepal), Fakhar Zaman (Pakistan) ICC Women’s Player of the Month Nominees for April: Alyssa Healy (Australia), Leigh Kasperek (New Zealand), Megan Schutt (Australia) About the ICC Men’s Player of the Month Nominees for April: In the month of April, Pakistan captain Babar Azam became the No.1 ranked batsman in the ICC Men’s ODI Player Rankings, ending India captain Virat Kohli's long reign at the top of the charts. Babar's match-winning 82-ball 94 in the third ODI against South Africa helped him gain 13 rating points to reach a career-best 865 points. He also contributed 122 from 59 balls in Pakistan’s successful chase in the third match of a T20I series against the same opposition. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Two bookies arrested after illegally entering stadium during RR vs SRH clash His compatriot Fakhar Zaman also produced a stellar showing during the month, scoring two centuries in the ODI series victory over South Africa, including a magnificent 193 in the second match in Johannesburg. Completing the men’s shortlist, Nepal’s Khushal Bhurtel was the leading run-scorer as his team won a tri-series also featuring the Netherlands and Malaysia. His significant contribution with the bat totalled 278 runs, including four half-centuries in five matches. About the ICC Women’s Player of the Month Nominees for April: Australia’s Alyssa Healy played three ODIs versus New Zealand, scoring 155 runs at an average of 51.66 and a strike rate of 98.72. Her efforts saw her finish as the leading run-scorer in Australia’s series victory over New Zealand that extended their record-winning streak to 24 ODIs. ALSO READ: WTC finals: Kiwi all-rounder Colin de Grandhomme reveals 'toughest thing' for Team India Her teammate Megan Schutt became Australia’s leading wicket-taker in the same series, taking seven wickets at an average of 13.14. New Zealand’s Leigh Kasperek played two ODIs against Australia, achieving career-best figures of six for 46 in the second match of the series, and followed this up with three more wickets in the final match, finishing with nine wickets at an average of 7.77. The ICC Player of the Month voting process: The three nominees for either category are shortlisted based on on-field performances and overall achievements during that month (the first to the last day of each calendar month). This shortlist is then voted on by the independent ICC Voting Academy* and fans around the world. The ICC Voting Academy comprises prominent members of the cricket family including senior journalists, former players, broadcasters, and some members of the ICC Hall of Fame. The Voting Academy will submit their votes by email and retain a 90 per cent share of the vote. Additionally, fans registered with the ICC will be able to vote via the ICC website once the shortlisted players are announced and will have a 10 per cent share of the vote.

ICC Player of the Month nominations for April announced; Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman to battle it out

Spectators were urged to stay away as a subdued Tokyo Olympics marathon rehearsal took place under strict anti-coronavirus conditions in Sapporo on Wednesday, as officials grapple with a rise in infections and public antipathy to the Games.

Scattered onlookers in facemasks clapped but refrained from cheering, to avoid spreading droplets, as Kenya's Hillary Kipkoech&nbsp;won the scaled-back men's half-marathon in 1hr 46sec and Japan's Mao Ichiyama was the women's winner in 1hr 8min 28sec.

Security guards stood with signs around their necks asking people to "please refrain from watching the race" to prevent infections as the event unfolded in a muted atmosphere in the northern city.

The marathon was at the centre of controversy in the original build-up to the 2020 Games, when it was moved to Sapporo from Tokyo to avoid the capital's punishing summer heat.

Wednesday's test attracted disquiet for different reasons, as residents voiced concerns about its potential for spreading the virus.

"We are doing what we can to contain the coronavirus," Shuji Miura, who manages a cafe along the route, told the Asahi Shimbun.

"But it will be completely useless if they hold the rehearsal event before we see any result."

Polls show the majority of people in Japan want a cancellation or further postponement of the 2020 Games, which are due to open on July 23.

Tokyo, Osaka and other regions are currently under a coronavirus state of emergency to bring down surging cases, while the country's vaccine roll-out has been progressing slowly.

World Athletics president Sebastian Coe said he could understand the "nervousness" in Japan about holding the Olympics during the pandemic.

"We take that nervousness very, very seriously," Coe told reporters.

"We have Covid protocols that have been tried and tested, and I've witnessed them here this morning. We take very seriously the health and wellbeing of local communities."

Coe, who was head of the 2012 London Olympics, said it was "really important that when the world looks to coming out of Covid, coming out of the pandemic, that it can see optimism".

"The Olympic Games and the Paralympic Games will be totemic of that optimism and hope going forward. So it is important that the Games are delivered successfully, and they're delivered safely," he added.

<h2>- Daily tests -</h2>

Around 2,700 people including organisers were involved in Wednesday's event in Sapporo, said top Tokyo 2020 official Yasuo Mori. Sixty-nine runners took part in the half-marathon.

Overseas competitors had to take Covid-19 tests before their departure and on arrival in Japan, and were also tested daily before the event, as will happen at the Olympics.

Mori said no one had tested positive for Covid-19, with the athletes made to stay in hotels with no contact with the public.

Coe said he was sure people in Sapporo, which hosted the 1972 Winter Olympics, would eventually be glad of welcoming the marathon.

"I'm also very sure that the people of Sapporo will be proud historically to be able to claim that they live in a city that has been the host to the Winter Games and also the host to an event in the Summer Games," he said.

The pandemic has severely disrupted test events for the Olympics, with several postponed, cancelled or moved abroad.&nbsp;

This week's Diving World Cup, which doubles as an Olympic qualifier, is taking place behind closed doors in Tokyo.

Olympics organisers are yet to decide how many fans -- if any -- will be allowed at the Games, with overseas spectators already barred from attending.

Spectators were urged to stay away as a subdued Tokyo Olympics marathon rehearsal took place under strict anti-coronavirus conditions in Sapporo on Wednesday, as officials grapple with a rise in infections and public antipathy to the Games.

Spectators were urged to stay away as a subdued Tokyo Olympics marathon rehearsal took place under strict anti-coronavirus conditions in Sapporo on Wednesday, as officials grapple with a rise in infections and public antipathy to the Games. Scattered onlookers in facemasks clapped but refrained from cheering, to avoid spreading droplets, as Kenya's Hillary Kipkoech won the scaled-back men's half-marathon in 1hr 46sec and Japan's Mao Ichiyama was the women's winner in 1hr 8min 28sec. Security guards stood with signs around their necks asking people to "please refrain from watching the race" to prevent infections as the event unfolded in a muted atmosphere in the northern city. The marathon was at the centre of controversy in the original build-up to the 2020 Games, when it was moved to Sapporo from Tokyo to avoid the capital's punishing summer heat. Wednesday's test attracted disquiet for different reasons, as residents voiced concerns about its potential for spreading the virus. "We are doing what we can to contain the coronavirus," Shuji Miura, who manages a cafe along the route, told the Asahi Shimbun. "But it will be completely useless if they hold the rehearsal event before we see any result." Polls show the majority of people in Japan want a cancellation or further postponement of the 2020 Games, which are due to open on July 23. Tokyo, Osaka and other regions are currently under a coronavirus state of emergency to bring down surging cases, while the country's vaccine roll-out has been progressing slowly. World Athletics president Sebastian Coe said he could understand the "nervousness" in Japan about holding the Olympics during the pandemic. "We take that nervousness very, very seriously," Coe told reporters. "We have Covid protocols that have been tried and tested, and I've witnessed them here this morning. We take very seriously the health and wellbeing of local communities." Coe, who was head of the 2012 London Olympics, said it was "really important that when the world looks to coming out of Covid, coming out of the pandemic, that it can see optimism". "The Olympic Games and the Paralympic Games will be totemic of that optimism and hope going forward. So it is important that the Games are delivered successfully, and they're delivered safely," he added. - Daily tests - Around 2,700 people including organisers were involved in Wednesday's event in Sapporo, said top Tokyo 2020 official Yasuo Mori. Sixty-nine runners took part in the half-marathon. Overseas competitors had to take Covid-19 tests before their departure and on arrival in Japan, and were also tested daily before the event, as will happen at the Olympics. Mori said no one had tested positive for Covid-19, with the athletes made to stay in hotels with no contact with the public. Coe said he was sure people in Sapporo, which hosted the 1972 Winter Olympics, would eventually be glad of welcoming the marathon. "I'm also very sure that the people of Sapporo will be proud historically to be able to claim that they live in a city that has been the host to the Winter Games and also the host to an event in the Summer Games," he said. The pandemic has severely disrupted test events for the Olympics, with several postponed, cancelled or moved abroad. This week's Diving World Cup, which doubles as an Olympic qualifier, is taking place behind closed doors in Tokyo. Olympics organisers are yet to decide how many fans -- if any -- will be allowed at the Games, with overseas spectators already barred from attending.

'Don't watch' - fans warned off Tokyo Olympics marathon test

Manchester City reached their first Champions League final as Riyad Mahrez's double sealed a 2-0 win against Paris Saint-Germain in Tuesday's semi-final second leg.

City, 4-1 winners on aggregate, will play Chelsea or Real Madrid in the final in Istanbul.

Here, AFP Sport looks at three things we learned from the Etihad Stadium clash:

<h2>Guardiola makes his point</h2>

Criticised for meddling with Manchester City's tactics with disastrous results in last season's shock Champions League quarter-final defeat against Lyon, Pep Guardiola enjoyed a moment of sweet redemption as his astute game-plan laid the foundations for their historic victory.

With a 2-1 lead to defend from the first leg in Paris, Guardiola needed to come up with the right approach to ensure his team didn't let PSG back into the tie.

Some believed Guardiola's desire to prove he could win the Champions League without Lionel Messi had affected him in the latter stages of the competition in the past as he tinkered with team line-ups unnecessarily.

But this time he struck just the right note, with a counter-attacking approach that set City up to take advantage of PSG's need to chase the game.

It worked to perfection with Riyad Mahrez's opening goal coming after a long pass from Ederson exploited the gaps left by PSG at the back.

"We approach this game like any other game," Guardiola had said ahead of the second leg, but even he knew the 289th match of his City reign was unlike any that had come before.

Guardiola last won the Champions League when he lifted the trophy for the second time in his Barcelona reign in 2011.

He hadn't been to the final since then, with City's Champions League campaigns littered with agonising exits in the Guardiola era.

At last, Guardiola and City can put their chequered European history behind them as they chase a remarkable Premier League, Champions League and League Cup treble.

<h2>Rock-solid Dias leads the way</h2>

Ruben Dias has made a superb impact since arriving at Manchester City from Benfica last year and this was the Portugal centre-back's finest moment yet.

After initially failing to fill the void left by Vincent Kompany's exit in 2019, City have finally found a worthy successor for the inspirational Belgian.

Dias was rock solid as PSG fought to get back into the tie, making a series of brave blocks and well-timed interceptions.

Twice, he denied PSG by putting his body on the line without a second thought, but the 23-year-old's tour de force came in the 62nd minute.

Ander Herrera's volley was flying towards goal, but Dias flung himself in the way, taking the ball flush on the face to stop the shot testing City keeper Ederson.

Dias wasn't the only defensive hero for City and when Oleksandr Zinchenko made a last-ditch block to deny Neymar inside the City area, John Stones hugged the left-back with unbridled joy -- a celebration that set the stage for the party to come at the final whistle.

<h2>PSG blunted by Mbappe injury</h2>

The glum look on Kylian Mbappe's face as he sat huddled on the PSG bench encapsulated a miserable evening for the France star and his team.

Mbappe wasn't fit to start after suffering a calf injury and he remained an unused substitute as PSG's final hopes faded away.

Brazil star Neymar had shouldered the burden when Mbappe was absent in the past, with PSG winning all five of their previous games under Mauricio Pochettino without the 22-year-old.

But Neymar was hounded into submission by City's tenacious defence and Mauro Icardi, starting in Mbappe's place, was unable to replicate the threat posed by the World Cup-winning striker, who has 37 goals in 43 appearances this season.

PSG had scored three at Manchester United, four at Barcelona and three at Bayern Munich in the Champions League this season.

But five of those 10 goals came from Mbappe and his absence made it impossible for PSG to overturn the first-leg deficit.

Manchester City reached their first Champions League final as Riyad Mahrez's double sealed a 2-0 win against Paris Saint-Germain in Tuesday's semi-final second leg.

Manchester City reached their first Champions League final as Riyad Mahrez's double sealed a 2-0 win against Paris Saint-Germain in Tuesday's semi-final second leg. City, 4-1 winners on aggregate, will play Chelsea or Real Madrid in the final in Istanbul. Here, AFP Sport looks at three things we learned from the Etihad Stadium clash: Guardiola makes his point Criticised for meddling with Manchester City's tactics with disastrous results in last season's shock Champions League quarter-final defeat against Lyon, Pep Guardiola enjoyed a moment of sweet redemption as his astute game-plan laid the foundations for their historic victory. With a 2-1 lead to defend from the first leg in Paris, Guardiola needed to come up with the right approach to ensure his team didn't let PSG back into the tie. Some believed Guardiola's desire to prove he could win the Champions League without Lionel Messi had affected him in the latter stages of the competition in the past as he tinkered with team line-ups unnecessarily. But this time he struck just the right note, with a counter-attacking approach that set City up to take advantage of PSG's need to chase the game. It worked to perfection with Riyad Mahrez's opening goal coming after a long pass from Ederson exploited the gaps left by PSG at the back. "We approach this game like any other game," Guardiola had said ahead of the second leg, but even he knew the 289th match of his City reign was unlike any that had come before. Guardiola last won the Champions League when he lifted the trophy for the second time in his Barcelona reign in 2011. He hadn't been to the final since then, with City's Champions League campaigns littered with agonising exits in the Guardiola era. At last, Guardiola and City can put their chequered European history behind them as they chase a remarkable Premier League, Champions League and League Cup treble. Rock-solid Dias leads the way Ruben Dias has made a superb impact since arriving at Manchester City from Benfica last year and this was the Portugal centre-back's finest moment yet. After initially failing to fill the void left by Vincent Kompany's exit in 2019, City have finally found a worthy successor for the inspirational Belgian. Dias was rock solid as PSG fought to get back into the tie, making a series of brave blocks and well-timed interceptions. Twice, he denied PSG by putting his body on the line without a second thought, but the 23-year-old's tour de force came in the 62nd minute. Ander Herrera's volley was flying towards goal, but Dias flung himself in the way, taking the ball flush on the face to stop the shot testing City keeper Ederson. Dias wasn't the only defensive hero for City and when Oleksandr Zinchenko made a last-ditch block to deny Neymar inside the City area, John Stones hugged the left-back with unbridled joy -- a celebration that set the stage for the party to come at the final whistle. PSG blunted by Mbappe injury The glum look on Kylian Mbappe's face as he sat huddled on the PSG bench encapsulated a miserable evening for the France star and his team. Mbappe wasn't fit to start after suffering a calf injury and he remained an unused substitute as PSG's final hopes faded away. Brazil star Neymar had shouldered the burden when Mbappe was absent in the past, with PSG winning all five of their previous games under Mauricio Pochettino without the 22-year-old. But Neymar was hounded into submission by City's tenacious defence and Mauro Icardi, starting in Mbappe's place, was unable to replicate the threat posed by the World Cup-winning striker, who has 37 goals in 43 appearances this season. PSG had scored three at Manchester United, four at Barcelona and three at Bayern Munich in the Champions League this season. But five of those 10 goals came from Mbappe and his absence made it impossible for PSG to overturn the first-leg deficit.

Champions League: Three things we learned from Man City vs Paris Saint-Germain

Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Kolkata, and Mumbai were the six venues initially planned for IPL 2021. Chennai and Mumbai facilitated the first leg of the league, while the latter was played in Ahmedabad and Delhi.&nbsp;

Following the COVID-19 emergency that has hit IPL 2021, reports have arisen that the remaining matches of the league might be held altogether in Mumbai.&nbsp;

For IPL 2021 fans, Monday morning started with the information on two Kolkata Knight Riders players testing COVID-19 positive. The names of the players were subsequently uncovered to be Varun Chakravarthy and Sandeep Warrier.&nbsp;

Later in the day, it arose that three members from the Chennai Super Kings camp had tested positive for COVID-19 too. Notwithstanding, none of them were players. Chennai Super Kings CEO Kasi Viswanathan, bowling coach L Balaji and someone from the support staff are the three who have tested positive for COVID-19.&nbsp;

In the evening, it was accounted for that the BCCI had asked all players and support staff of Delhi Capitals to isolate themselves. It is perceived that the guidelines came as insurance after the two Kolkata Knight Riders players tested positive for COVID-19 prior on Monday.&nbsp;

BCCI needs to limit all dangers in the wake of Monday's COVID-related turns of events and henceforth wants to move the league to Mumbai. As indicated by the report, the BCCI could make the shift ahead of schedule by the end of the week.&nbsp;

The report additionally expressed that the BCCI has been checking with enormous lodgings in Mumbai to investigate the plausibility of making a bio-bubble with all essential SOPs at such short notice.&nbsp;

Mumbai has three cricket stadiums that can have IPL 2021 matches - Wankhede Stadium, DY Patil Stadium, and Brabourne Stadium. While the Wankhede Stadium facilitated ten matches during the first leg of IPL 2021, the other two venues were utilized for practice purposes.&nbsp;

Moving the league totally to Mumbai would mean rescheduling the entire schedule, which could prompt various doubleheaders. Likewise, the IPL 2021 finale, which is as os now scheduled for May 30, could be pushed to the beginning of June.&nbsp;

Team India; however, are scheduled to play the World Test Championship final against New Zealand in Southampton from June 18-22, a game that is as of now under a haze, as the UK has hindered travel from India. An all-encompassing IPL 2021 could place the World Test Championship last in additional peril. 
&nbsp;

Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Kolkata, and Mumbai were the six venues initially planned for IPL 2021. Chennai and Mumbai facilitated the first leg of the league, while the latter was played in Ahmedabad and Delhi.

Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Kolkata, and Mumbai were the six venues initially planned for IPL 2021. Chennai and Mumbai facilitated the first leg of the league, while the latter was played in Ahmedabad and Delhi. Following the COVID-19 emergency that has hit IPL 2021, reports have arisen that the remaining matches of the league might be held altogether in Mumbai. For IPL 2021 fans, Monday morning started with the information on two Kolkata Knight Riders players testing COVID-19 positive. The names of the players were subsequently uncovered to be Varun Chakravarthy and Sandeep Warrier. Later in the day, it arose that three members from the Chennai Super Kings camp had tested positive for COVID-19 too. Notwithstanding, none of them were players. Chennai Super Kings CEO Kasi Viswanathan, bowling coach L Balaji and someone from the support staff are the three who have tested positive for COVID-19. In the evening, it was accounted for that the BCCI had asked all players and support staff of Delhi Capitals to isolate themselves. It is perceived that the guidelines came as insurance after the two Kolkata Knight Riders players tested positive for COVID-19 prior on Monday. BCCI needs to limit all dangers in the wake of Monday's COVID-related turns of events and henceforth wants to move the league to Mumbai. As indicated by the report, the BCCI could make the shift ahead of schedule by the end of the week. The report additionally expressed that the BCCI has been checking with enormous lodgings in Mumbai to investigate the plausibility of making a bio-bubble with all essential SOPs at such short notice. Mumbai has three cricket stadiums that can have IPL 2021 matches - Wankhede Stadium, DY Patil Stadium, and Brabourne Stadium. While the Wankhede Stadium facilitated ten matches during the first leg of IPL 2021, the other two venues were utilized for practice purposes. Moving the league totally to Mumbai would mean rescheduling the entire schedule, which could prompt various doubleheaders. Likewise, the IPL 2021 finale, which is as os now scheduled for May 30, could be pushed to the beginning of June. Team India; however, are scheduled to play the World Test Championship final against New Zealand in Southampton from June 18-22, a game that is as of now under a haze, as the UK has hindered travel from India. An all-encompassing IPL 2021 could place the World Test Championship last in additional peril.

Remainder of IPL might be held in Mumbai as COVID-19 rocks IPL 2021

The Europa League final in Gdansk on May 26 will be allowed to host up to 9,500 spectators after Europe's soccer governing body UEFA said it had received approval from the Polish authorities.

The final will be held at Stadion Energa in Gdansk at a stadium capacity of 25 percent, with both finalists receiving 2,000 tickets each and 2,000 tickets to be offered to the general public.

The remaining tickets will be allocated to the local organizing committee, UEFA and national associations, commercial partners and broadcasters.

"The Polish authorities have confirmed a stadium capacity of 25% for the final, amounting to 9,500 spectators," UEFA said in a statement on Monday

Spectators may be required to show proof of a vaccine or a negative COVID-19 result, UEFA said.

"Supporters traveling from outside of Poland will have to comply with border entry restrictions and requirements that will be in force at the time of the final. No exemptions will be granted to ticket holders," UEFA added.

Manchester United will play away to AS Roma on Thursday in the second leg of the semi-final, having won 6-2 in the first leg. Villarreal will travel to London to face Arsenal in the second leg after they defeated the English side 2-1 at home.

The Europa League final in Gdansk on May 26 will be allowed to host up to 9,500 spectators after Europe's soccer governing body UEFA said it had received approval from the Polish authorities.

The Europa League final in Gdansk on May 26 will be allowed to host up to 9,500 spectators after Europe's soccer governing body UEFA said it had received approval from the Polish authorities. The final will be held at Stadion Energa in Gdansk at a stadium capacity of 25 percent, with both finalists receiving 2,000 tickets each and 2,000 tickets to be offered to the general public. The remaining tickets will be allocated to the local organizing committee, UEFA and national associations, commercial partners and broadcasters. "The Polish authorities have confirmed a stadium capacity of 25% for the final, amounting to 9,500 spectators," UEFA said in a statement on Monday Spectators may be required to show proof of a vaccine or a negative COVID-19 result, UEFA said. "Supporters traveling from outside of Poland will have to comply with border entry restrictions and requirements that will be in force at the time of the final. No exemptions will be granted to ticket holders," UEFA added. Manchester United will play away to AS Roma on Thursday in the second leg of the semi-final, having won 6-2 in the first leg. Villarreal will travel to London to face Arsenal in the second leg after they defeated the English side 2-1 at home.

UEFA Europa League final in Gdansk to host up to 9,500 spectators

Paris St Germain will make a late decision on whether forward Kylian Mbappe will be available to face Manchester City in the second leg of the Champions League semi-final, coach Mauricio Pochettino said on Monday.

Mbappe, PSG's top scorer this season with 25 goals in Ligue 1 and eight in Europe, missed the 2-1 victory over Lens on Saturday due to a calf injury.

Video footage circulating on social media showed Mbappe limping on his arrival in Manchester for Tuesday's match at the Etihad Stadium, but Pochettino will make his final assessment after the first-team training session.

"We need to assess Kylian, today he's going to start individual training sessions and see if he'll be with the team," Pochettino told a news conference. "It's still one day, we didn't decide and we will see tomorrow."

Having suffered a 2-1 defeat in Paris last week, PSG knows they must score at least twice on Tuesday if they are to stand any chance of heading to their second straight Champions League final.

Pochettino said he will not tweak PSG's formation -- with or without Mbappe -- but emphasized the importance of his team converting their counter-attacking opportunities.

"Tomorrow we must be ready to suffer and then be clinical and aggressive when we get chances," the Argentine coach said.

"They have an advantage and we need to take risks, be brave, plan the game knowing City is a team that can manage different ways to play.

"We need to be clever, believe, and show our quality on the pitch. It will be a battle but we will be ready."

Paris St Germain will make a late decision on whether forward Kylian Mbappe will be available to face Manchester City in the second leg of the Champions League semi-final, coach Mauricio Pochettino said on Monday.

Paris St Germain will make a late decision on whether forward Kylian Mbappe will be available to face Manchester City in the second leg of the Champions League semi-final, coach Mauricio Pochettino said on Monday. Mbappe, PSG's top scorer this season with 25 goals in Ligue 1 and eight in Europe, missed the 2-1 victory over Lens on Saturday due to a calf injury. Video footage circulating on social media showed Mbappe limping on his arrival in Manchester for Tuesday's match at the Etihad Stadium, but Pochettino will make his final assessment after the first-team training session. "We need to assess Kylian, today he's going to start individual training sessions and see if he'll be with the team," Pochettino told a news conference. "It's still one day, we didn't decide and we will see tomorrow." Having suffered a 2-1 defeat in Paris last week, PSG knows they must score at least twice on Tuesday if they are to stand any chance of heading to their second straight Champions League final. Pochettino said he will not tweak PSG's formation -- with or without Mbappe -- but emphasized the importance of his team converting their counter-attacking opportunities. "Tomorrow we must be ready to suffer and then be clinical and aggressive when we get chances," the Argentine coach said. "They have an advantage and we need to take risks, be brave, plan the game knowing City is a team that can manage different ways to play. "We need to be clever, believe, and show our quality on the pitch. It will be a battle but we will be ready."

PSG manager Pochettino sweating over Mbappe fitness for Manchester City clash

The IPL 2021 game among KKR and RCB, which was scheduled to be played on Monday, got deferred after two players from the Kolkata Knight Riders squad tested positive for COVID-19. Nonetheless, the BCCI said that the competition would proceed and that there wouldn't be any other fixture deferments. Thus, the clash between the Sunrisers Hyderabad and the Mumbai Indians should happen as planned at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi.

The forthcoming clash between MI and SRH will be the second time these two teams challenge in the IPL 2021. Mumbai and Hyderabad played against one another at the MA Chidambaram Stadium recently, where the Mumbai Indians beat the Sunrisers Hyderabad by 13 runs.

<h2>Head-to-Head</h2>

The Mumbai Indians lead the head-to-head record against the Sunrisers Hyderabad by 9-8. As referenced ahead, Mumbai Indians beat the Sunrisers Hyderabad at Chepauk in their first match of IPL 2021.

<h2>Sunrisers Hyderabad</h2>

The Sunrisers management got a great deal of fire from angry fans after David Warner was sacked as skipper and sidelined for their game against Rajasthan Royals. Kane Williamson's strategy of utilizing Rashid Khan in the powerplay and bowling him out by the eleventh over misfired. Mohammad Nabi, who supplanted David Warner, was given only one over with the ball and it came past the point of no return in the game to have any effect.&nbsp;

Jason Holder can open the bowling for Sunrisers Hyderabad, and subsequently open up space for a spinner/all-rounder in the line-up. He can likewise be advanced up the order and help the team to get some speedy runs in attempting conditions.&nbsp;

SRH's genuine misery lies in their middle-order who hasn't had the option to get rolling in the league. Kedar Jadhav, Virat Singh, Abhishek Sharma, and Vijay Shankar have all neglected to perform up to expectations. SRH should take a gander at giving Priyam Garg a chance that can solve the middle-order conundrum.

Probable XI: Jonny Bairstow, Manish Pandey, Kane Williamson, Vijay Shankar, Kedar Jadhav/Priyam Garg, Jason Holder, Abdul Samad, Rashid Khan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Khaleel Ahmed, Sandeep Sharma/Basil Thampi

<h2>Mumbai Indians&nbsp;</h2>

Mumbai Indians haven't consistently rolled out an excessive number of changes in the previous few seasons, yet they have dabbled with their group a smidgen in IPL 2021 as per the conditions. Piyush Chawla could come in for Dhawal Kulkarni and Nathan Coulter-Nile could return the spot of Jimmy Neesham.&nbsp;

Quinton de Kock has scored 108 runs in two matches at Arun Jaitley Stadium this year. The Mumbai Indians opener scored a 50-ball 70 against the Royals and followed it up with a 38-run thump versus the Super Kings.&nbsp;

Kieron Pollard is the solitary Mumbai Indians batsman to store up more than 400 runs against the Orange Army, while Jasprit Bumrah has dismissed 13 Sunrisers Hyderabad hitters in his vocation. Kieron Pollard and Jasprit Bumrah will be the players to keep an eye out for in this game.

Probable XI: Quinton de Kock (WK), Rohit Sharma (C), Suryakumar Yadav, Kieron Pollard, Krunal Pandya, Hardik Pandya, James Neesham, Rahul Chahar, Dhawal Kulkarni, Trent Boult, Jasprit Bumrah.

There have been four matches played at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi so far this season and the pitch is by all accounts good for batting, yet it will be captivating to perceive how the Sunrisers' out-of-form batting line-up can emerge from their droop will Mumbai be in any genuine peril of coming next on the evening.

The IPL 2021 game among KKR and RCB, which was scheduled to be played on Monday, got deferred after two players from the Kolkata Knight Riders squad tested positive for COVID-19.

The IPL 2021 game among KKR and RCB, which was scheduled to be played on Monday, got deferred after two players from the Kolkata Knight Riders squad tested positive for COVID-19. Nonetheless, the BCCI said that the competition would proceed and that there wouldn't be any other fixture deferments. Thus, the clash between the Sunrisers Hyderabad and the Mumbai Indians should happen as planned at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi. The forthcoming clash between MI and SRH will be the second time these two teams challenge in the IPL 2021. Mumbai and Hyderabad played against one another at the MA Chidambaram Stadium recently, where the Mumbai Indians beat the Sunrisers Hyderabad by 13 runs. Head-to-Head The Mumbai Indians lead the head-to-head record against the Sunrisers Hyderabad by 9-8. As referenced ahead, Mumbai Indians beat the Sunrisers Hyderabad at Chepauk in their first match of IPL 2021. Sunrisers Hyderabad The Sunrisers management got a great deal of fire from angry fans after David Warner was sacked as skipper and sidelined for their game against Rajasthan Royals. Kane Williamson's strategy of utilizing Rashid Khan in the powerplay and bowling him out by the eleventh over misfired. Mohammad Nabi, who supplanted David Warner, was given only one over with the ball and it came past the point of no return in the game to have any effect. Jason Holder can open the bowling for Sunrisers Hyderabad, and subsequently open up space for a spinner/all-rounder in the line-up. He can likewise be advanced up the order and help the team to get some speedy runs in attempting conditions. SRH's genuine misery lies in their middle-order who hasn't had the option to get rolling in the league. Kedar Jadhav, Virat Singh, Abhishek Sharma, and Vijay Shankar have all neglected to perform up to expectations. SRH should take a gander at giving Priyam Garg a chance that can solve the middle-order conundrum. Probable XI: Jonny Bairstow, Manish Pandey, Kane Williamson, Vijay Shankar, Kedar Jadhav/Priyam Garg, Jason Holder, Abdul Samad, Rashid Khan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Khaleel Ahmed, Sandeep Sharma/Basil Thampi Mumbai Indians Mumbai Indians haven't consistently rolled out an excessive number of changes in the previous few seasons, yet they have dabbled with their group a smidgen in IPL 2021 as per the conditions. Piyush Chawla could come in for Dhawal Kulkarni and Nathan Coulter-Nile could return the spot of Jimmy Neesham. Quinton de Kock has scored 108 runs in two matches at Arun Jaitley Stadium this year. The Mumbai Indians opener scored a 50-ball 70 against the Royals and followed it up with a 38-run thump versus the Super Kings. Kieron Pollard is the solitary Mumbai Indians batsman to store up more than 400 runs against the Orange Army, while Jasprit Bumrah has dismissed 13 Sunrisers Hyderabad hitters in his vocation. Kieron Pollard and Jasprit Bumrah will be the players to keep an eye out for in this game. Probable XI: Quinton de Kock (WK), Rohit Sharma (C), Suryakumar Yadav, Kieron Pollard, Krunal Pandya, Hardik Pandya, James Neesham, Rahul Chahar, Dhawal Kulkarni, Trent Boult, Jasprit Bumrah. There have been four matches played at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi so far this season and the pitch is by all accounts good for batting, yet it will be captivating to perceive how the Sunrisers' out-of-form batting line-up can emerge from their droop will Mumbai be in any genuine peril of coming next on the evening.

IPL 2021, SRH vs MI Preview - ‘Struggling’ Sunrisers Hyderabad lock horns with Mumbai Indians

Spain's La Liga is investigating whether a party organised by Barcelona players at their captain Lionel Messi's home broke Covid-19 protocol.

"We're looking into it," La Liga sources told AFP on Tuesday.

Monday's meal brought together Barca players, some accompanied by their partners, at the Argentinian star's house, despite social distancing rules in the Catalonian capital outlawing groups of more than six to meet in private.

The party may constitute "a possible breach of Covid-19 protocols", the source suggested.

The purpose of the get-together according to local media was to give the team a morale boost ahead of the season run-in, with Messi's double in Sunday's 3-2 win over Valencia leaving them two points adrift of Atletico Madrid with four games to play, and to celebrate last month's Copa del Rey triumph.

Images carried in various media showed players like Sergi Roberto and the teenager Pedri leaving Messi's house. In a video chants of 'champions, champions' could be heard.

"The public health agency will study this case and decide whether to take it any further," Pere Aragones, vice-president of the regional Catalan government, said on Tuesday.

He added: "We call on everyone to respect the (social distancing) measures and urge those in the public gaze to be extra attentive as they can lead by way of example."

Spain's La Liga is investigating whether a party organised by Barcelona players at their captain Lionel Messi's home broke Covid-19 protocol. "We're looking into it," La Liga sources told AFP on Tuesday.

Spain's La Liga is investigating whether a party organised by Barcelona players at their captain Lionel Messi's home broke Covid-19 protocol. "We're looking into it," La Liga sources told AFP on Tuesday. Monday's meal brought together Barca players, some accompanied by their partners, at the Argentinian star's house, despite social distancing rules in the Catalonian capital outlawing groups of more than six to meet in private. The party may constitute "a possible breach of Covid-19 protocols", the source suggested. The purpose of the get-together according to local media was to give the team a morale boost ahead of the season run-in, with Messi's double in Sunday's 3-2 win over Valencia leaving them two points adrift of Atletico Madrid with four games to play, and to celebrate last month's Copa del Rey triumph. Images carried in various media showed players like Sergi Roberto and the teenager Pedri leaving Messi's house. In a video chants of 'champions, champions' could be heard. "The public health agency will study this case and decide whether to take it any further," Pere Aragones, vice-president of the regional Catalan government, said on Tuesday. He added: "We call on everyone to respect the (social distancing) measures and urge those in the public gaze to be extra attentive as they can lead by way of example."

La Liga launches virus probe after Messi's Barca party

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