Wales star Gareth Bale said he would be willing to join a boycott of social media to tackle online abuse after former Arsenal and France striker Thierry Henry disabled his accounts.

Henry quit social media at the weekend, saying he would stay away until platforms did more to tackle "toxic" racism and harassment.

Two of Bale's Wales team-mates, Ben Cabango and Rabbi Matondo, were racially abused on Instagram following Saturday's 1-0 friendly win over Mexico -- the latest footballers to be attacked online.

Matondo criticised Instagram for not reacting quickly enough, saying if he had posted images of the match they would have been removed.

Facebook, which owns Instagram, later removed a number of accounts that were used for the racial abuse.

Bale, speaking on Monday, on the eve of Wales's 2022 World Cup qualifier against the Czech Republic, said only&nbsp;a mass boycott would have an impact.

"If everyone did it at once, not just one or two people, I would," said the 31-year-old forward.&nbsp;

"If it was a campaign where a lot of influential people in sport and other forms of life on social media (acted) to make a statement then I think it could help.

"If that was the case I'm all for that."

Henry, who had 2.3 million followers on Twitter and 2.7 million on Instagram, told broadcaster ITV that he would return to social media when it was "safe".

"People are getting racially abused but, when you see the statement (he made), I talk also about bullying, harassment that can cause mental issues, people commit suicide because of it," said the 1998 World Cup winner.

"It's very difficult to eradicate everything but can it be safer? We all know that it is a great tool but a lot of people are using it as a weapon.

"Why? Because they can hide behind fake accounts."

Instagram took action in relation to 6.6 million elements of hate speech between October and December last year.

Twitter has said it will cooperate with authorities to erase racial abuse and hate-filled posts but would stop short of banning anonymous accounts

Wales star Gareth Bale said he would be willing to join a boycott of social media to tackle online abuse after former Arsenal and France striker Thierry Henry disabled his accounts.

Wales star Gareth Bale said he would be willing to join a boycott of social media to tackle online abuse after former Arsenal and France striker Thierry Henry disabled his accounts. Henry quit social media at the weekend, saying he would stay away until platforms did more to tackle "toxic" racism and harassment. Two of Bale's Wales team-mates, Ben Cabango and Rabbi Matondo, were racially abused on Instagram following Saturday's 1-0 friendly win over Mexico -- the latest footballers to be attacked online. Matondo criticised Instagram for not reacting quickly enough, saying if he had posted images of the match they would have been removed. Facebook, which owns Instagram, later removed a number of accounts that were used for the racial abuse. Bale, speaking on Monday, on the eve of Wales's 2022 World Cup qualifier against the Czech Republic, said only a mass boycott would have an impact. "If everyone did it at once, not just one or two people, I would," said the 31-year-old forward. "If it was a campaign where a lot of influential people in sport and other forms of life on social media (acted) to make a statement then I think it could help. "If that was the case I'm all for that." Henry, who had 2.3 million followers on Twitter and 2.7 million on Instagram, told broadcaster ITV that he would return to social media when it was "safe". "People are getting racially abused but, when you see the statement (he made), I talk also about bullying, harassment that can cause mental issues, people commit suicide because of it," said the 1998 World Cup winner. "It's very difficult to eradicate everything but can it be safer? We all know that it is a great tool but a lot of people are using it as a weapon. "Why? Because they can hide behind fake accounts." Instagram took action in relation to 6.6 million elements of hate speech between October and December last year. Twitter has said it will cooperate with authorities to erase racial abuse and hate-filled posts but would stop short of banning anonymous accounts

Bale willing to boycott social media over abuse of footballers

Virat Kohli is set to join the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) squad for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 on April 1, two days after the team commences their camp in Chennai. Kohli would need to undergo the mandatory one-week-long quarantine put in place as part of IPL SOPs&nbsp;after the Indian skipper exited the bio-secure bubble in Pune following India’s ODI series against England.&nbsp;

RCB will play their first phase of IPL 2021 matches, including the season opener on April 9 against defending champions Mumbai Indians, in Chennai.&nbsp;

Kohli has been part of bio-secure bubbles since the last IPL. While he exited it during India’s Test series against Australia to be with his wife Anushka Sharma for the birth of their first child, Kohli was back in the bubble for the entire home tour against England.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-thisara-perera-smashes-6-sixes-becomes-first-sri-lankan-to-achieve-the-iconic-feat-374099" hreflang="en">Watch: Thisara Perera smashes 6 sixes, becomes first Sri Lankan to achieve the iconic feat</a>

The hectic schedule comes into question again as India will enter another bio-bubble soon after IPL 2021 for the final of the ICC World Test Championship in England in June. The WTC final will be followed by a five-Test series in England. The Men in Blue would then engage for the T20 World Cup, scheduled to be played in October-November in India.&nbsp;

Kohli, on Sunday, highlighted the hectic scheduling while citing players mental health as they are moving from one bubble to another amid the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

"Scheduling needs to be looked at in future, because playing in bubbles for so long, two to three months, is going to be very, very difficult going forward," Kohli said at the post-match presentation. "You can't expect everyone to be at the same level of mental strength”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shreyas-iyer-to-undergo-shoulder-surgery-on-april-8-374083" hreflang="en">Shreyas Iyer to undergo shoulder surgery on April 8</a>

"Sometimes you do get cooked and you do feel like a bit of a change. I am sure things will be discussed and things will change in the future as well. But a different tournament, it brings fresh challenges heading into the IPL."&nbsp;

The likes of&nbsp;Yuzvendra&nbsp;Chahal and Mohammed Siraj would be available to train for RCB from Tuesday. The majority of the RCB squad had reached Chennai last week including team director Mike Hesson, Sanjay Bangar. AB de Villiers also arrived in Chennai at the weekend.&nbsp;

IPL 2021 commences from April 9.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli is set to join the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) squad for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 on April 1, two days after the team commences their camp in Chennai.

Virat Kohli is set to join the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) squad for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 on April 1, two days after the team commences their camp in Chennai. Kohli would need to undergo the mandatory one-week-long quarantine put in place as part of IPL SOPs after the Indian skipper exited the bio-secure bubble in Pune following India’s ODI series against England. RCB will play their first phase of IPL 2021 matches, including the season opener on April 9 against defending champions Mumbai Indians, in Chennai. Kohli has been part of bio-secure bubbles since the last IPL. While he exited it during India’s Test series against Australia to be with his wife Anushka Sharma for the birth of their first child, Kohli was back in the bubble for the entire home tour against England. ALSO READ: Watch: Thisara Perera smashes 6 sixes, becomes first Sri Lankan to achieve the iconic feat The hectic schedule comes into question again as India will enter another bio-bubble soon after IPL 2021 for the final of the ICC World Test Championship in England in June. The WTC final will be followed by a five-Test series in England. The Men in Blue would then engage for the T20 World Cup, scheduled to be played in October-November in India. Kohli, on Sunday, highlighted the hectic scheduling while citing players mental health as they are moving from one bubble to another amid the COVID-19 pandemic. "Scheduling needs to be looked at in future, because playing in bubbles for so long, two to three months, is going to be very, very difficult going forward," Kohli said at the post-match presentation. "You can't expect everyone to be at the same level of mental strength” ALSO READ: Shreyas Iyer to undergo shoulder surgery on April 8 "Sometimes you do get cooked and you do feel like a bit of a change. I am sure things will be discussed and things will change in the future as well. But a different tournament, it brings fresh challenges heading into the IPL." The likes of Yuzvendra Chahal and Mohammed Siraj would be available to train for RCB from Tuesday. The majority of the RCB squad had reached Chennai last week including team director Mike Hesson, Sanjay Bangar. AB de Villiers also arrived in Chennai at the weekend. IPL 2021 commences from April 9.

IPL 2021: Virat Kohli to join Royal Challengers Bangalore squad in Chennai on April 1

Thisara Perera on Sunday carved his name into the history books as he became the first Sri Lankan cricketer to hit six sixes in an over in any form of professional cricket during Major Clubs Limiter Over List-A tournament at the Army Ground in&nbsp;Panagoda&nbsp;town.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The 31-year-old joined the likes of Garfield Sobers, Ravi Shastri, Herschelle Gibbs, Yuvraj Singh, Ross Whiteley,&nbsp;Hazratullah&nbsp;Zazai, Leo Carter and Kieron Pollard to have smashed six sixes in professional cricket.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{4dedb401-bf0e-4348-a492-23e3996ae7d1}{159}" paraid="632068331" >6 sixes in an over in a professional game:&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

Garfield Sobers (FC) 1968&nbsp;

Ravi Shastri (FC) 1985&nbsp;

HH Gibbs (ODI) 2007&nbsp;

Yuvraj Singh (T20I) 2007&nbsp;

Ross Whiteley (T20) 2017&nbsp;

Haztratullah&nbsp;Zazai (T20) 2018&nbsp;

Leo Carter (T20) 2020&nbsp;

Kieron Pollard (T20I) 2021&nbsp;

THISARA PERERA (List A) 2021&nbsp;

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Perera achieved the feat during his unbeaten 13-ball 52 knock while captaining Sri Lanka Army Group against Bloomfield Cricket and Athletic Club in the Major Clubs Limited Over List-A tournament.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Perera’s knock also was the second-fastest half-century by a Sri Lankan in List-A cricket with former Sri Lanka all-rounder Kaushalya Weeraratne’s 12-bal half-century in 2005 leading the standings.&nbsp;

The Sri Lanan all-rounder came to bat at number five with 20 balls remaining in what was a shortened 41-over-a-side match. As Perera got it going from the word go, off-spinner&nbsp;Dilhan&nbsp;Cooray was at the receiving end as he was smashed six sixes on the bounce.&nbsp;

Thisara Perera on Sunday carved his name into the history books as he became the first Sri Lankan cricketer to hit six sixes in an over in any form of professional cricket during Major Clubs Limiter Over List-A tournament at the Army Ground in Panagoda town.

Thisara Perera on Sunday carved his name into the history books as he became the first Sri Lankan cricketer to hit six sixes in an over in any form of professional cricket during Major Clubs Limiter Over List-A tournament at the Army Ground in Panagoda town. The 31-year-old joined the likes of Garfield Sobers, Ravi Shastri, Herschelle Gibbs, Yuvraj Singh, Ross Whiteley, Hazratullah Zazai, Leo Carter and Kieron Pollard to have smashed six sixes in professional cricket. 6 sixes in an over in a professional game: Garfield Sobers (FC) 1968 Ravi Shastri (FC) 1985 HH Gibbs (ODI) 2007 Yuvraj Singh (T20I) 2007 Ross Whiteley (T20) 2017 Haztratullah Zazai (T20) 2018 Leo Carter (T20) 2020 Kieron Pollard (T20I) 2021 THISARA PERERA (List A) 2021 × Perera achieved the feat during his unbeaten 13-ball 52 knock while captaining Sri Lanka Army Group against Bloomfield Cricket and Athletic Club in the Major Clubs Limited Over List-A tournament. Perera’s knock also was the second-fastest half-century by a Sri Lankan in List-A cricket with former Sri Lanka all-rounder Kaushalya Weeraratne’s 12-bal half-century in 2005 leading the standings. The Sri Lanan all-rounder came to bat at number five with 20 balls remaining in what was a shortened 41-over-a-side match. As Perera got it going from the word go, off-spinner Dilhan Cooray was at the receiving end as he was smashed six sixes on the bounce.

Watch: Thisara Perera smashes 6 sixes, becomes first Sri Lankan to achieve the iconic feat

Indian batsman Shreyas Iyer is all set to undergo surgery on his left shoulder on April 8 and will need another five months to recover. Iyer had hurt his left shoulder while fielding during England’s run-chase in the eighth over of the second ODI at the Maharashtra Cricket Association in Pune.&nbsp;

Iyer was treated on the field by the Indian medical staff under a physiotherapist before being rushed off the field after the Indian cricket couldn’t tolerate the pain anymore. Iyer didn’t take the field and was taken for scans before being ruled out of the ODI series against England.&nbsp;

Iyer left Team India’s bio-bubble and will miss the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, scheduled to start from April 9. &nbsp;

Delhi Capitals are also set to announce a captain in Iyer’s absence of the 14th edition of IPL. &nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-is-just-a-freak-michael-vaughan-praises-unique-rishabh-pant-after-team-india-heroics-374070" hreflang="en">'He is just a freak': Michael Vaughan praises 'unique' Rishabh Pant after Team India heroics</a>

"Not just the IPL (2021), I think Shreyas will take about 4-5 months for recovery. So a realistic assessment will be the home T20 series against New Zealand and South Africa in September.&nbsp;

"He will undergo surgery so he will miss the IPL and England tour (August). I am also told by sources that the surgery will take place in end of the first week of April," Boria Majumdar, India Today's Consulting Editor Sports, said on Sports Today.&nbsp;

Shikhar Dhawan had led DC when Iyer was briefly out during IPL 2020 group stages. However, Rishabh Pant along with Steve Smith and Ravichandran Ashwin have emerged as potential candidates to take over DC's captaincy. Ajinkya Rahane also remains an option for the role.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricketing-world-beware-ian-chappell-predicts-era-of-dominance-for-team-india-374020" hreflang="en">'Cricketing world, beware': Ian Chappell predicts era of dominance for Team India</a>

Delhi Capita,s runners-up of IPL 2020, will open their IPL 2021 campaign against Chennai Super Kings at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on April 10.&nbsp;

Indian batsman Shreyas Iyer is all set to undergo surgery on his left shoulder on April 8 and will need another five months to recover. Iyer had hurt his left shoulder while fielding during England’s run-chase in the eighth over of the second ODI at the Maharashtra Cricket Association in Pune.

Indian batsman Shreyas Iyer is all set to undergo surgery on his left shoulder on April 8 and will need another five months to recover. Iyer had hurt his left shoulder while fielding during England’s run-chase in the eighth over of the second ODI at the Maharashtra Cricket Association in Pune. Iyer was treated on the field by the Indian medical staff under a physiotherapist before being rushed off the field after the Indian cricket couldn’t tolerate the pain anymore. Iyer didn’t take the field and was taken for scans before being ruled out of the ODI series against England. Iyer left Team India’s bio-bubble and will miss the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, scheduled to start from April 9. Delhi Capitals are also set to announce a captain in Iyer’s absence of the 14th edition of IPL. ALSO READ: 'He is just a freak': Michael Vaughan praises 'unique' Rishabh Pant after Team India heroics "Not just the IPL (2021), I think Shreyas will take about 4-5 months for recovery. So a realistic assessment will be the home T20 series against New Zealand and South Africa in September. "He will undergo surgery so he will miss the IPL and England tour (August). I am also told by sources that the surgery will take place in end of the first week of April," Boria Majumdar, India Today's Consulting Editor Sports, said on Sports Today. Shikhar Dhawan had led DC when Iyer was briefly out during IPL 2020 group stages. However, Rishabh Pant along with Steve Smith and Ravichandran Ashwin have emerged as potential candidates to take over DC's captaincy. Ajinkya Rahane also remains an option for the role. ALSO READ: 'Cricketing world, beware': Ian Chappell predicts era of dominance for Team India Delhi Capita,s runners-up of IPL 2020, will open their IPL 2021 campaign against Chennai Super Kings at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on April 10.

Shreyas Iyer to undergo shoulder surgery on April 8

The start of the FIFA World Cup qualifier match between Switzerland and Lithuania was delayed by 15 minutes on Sunday due to the goal-posts being too big.

Ground staff at the Kybunpark Stadium was called into action in a bid to replace the goal-posts which media reports claimed were between five to 10 cm too high on one side when inspected by match officials before the start of the game. The imbalance was caused by the left post not being sunk correctly into the ground.

As the ground staff tried to bring new goal-post into the pitch, the bars got stuck in one of the shelters of the tunnel, causing another delay in the process.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/germany-again-protest-for-human-rights-with-cryptic-message-374007" hreflang="en">Germany again protest for human rights with cryptic message</a>

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The goal in the Switzerland VS Lithuania game turned out to be too BIG! 🥅 
 
And then the replacement goal got caught on the tunnel! 🤣 <a href="https://t.co/PtSBK70QGs">pic.twitter.com/PtSBK70QGs</a>
— Football Daily (@footballdaily) <a href="https://twitter.com/footballdaily/status/1376459568730009602?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 29, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Even a police officer was seen helping remove the outsized posts which were eventually replaced by a spare set that matches the official requirements.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-switched-off-jota-says-after-ronaldo-denied-winner-373896" hreflang="en">We switched off, Jota says after Ronaldo denied winner</a>

Switzerland went on to win the game 1-0 thanks to a goal from Xherdan Shaqiri after just two minutes.

The start of the FIFA World Cup qualifier match between Switzerland and Lithuania was delayed by 15 minutes on Sunday due to the goal-posts being too big. Ground staff at the Kybunpark Stadium was called into action in a bid to replace the goal-posts which media reports claimed were between five to 10 cm too high on one side when inspected by match officials before the start of the game.

The start of the FIFA World Cup qualifier match between Switzerland and Lithuania was delayed by 15 minutes on Sunday due to the goal-posts being too big. Ground staff at the Kybunpark Stadium was called into action in a bid to replace the goal-posts which media reports claimed were between five to 10 cm too high on one side when inspected by match officials before the start of the game. The imbalance was caused by the left post not being sunk correctly into the ground. As the ground staff tried to bring new goal-post into the pitch, the bars got stuck in one of the shelters of the tunnel, causing another delay in the process. ALSO READ: Germany again protest for human rights with cryptic message The goal in the Switzerland VS Lithuania game turned out to be too BIG! 🥅 And then the replacement goal got caught on the tunnel! 🤣 pic.twitter.com/PtSBK70QGs — Football Daily (@footballdaily) March 29, 2021 × Even a police officer was seen helping remove the outsized posts which were eventually replaced by a spare set that matches the official requirements. ALSO READ: We switched off, Jota says after Ronaldo denied winner Switzerland went on to win the game 1-0 thanks to a goal from Xherdan Shaqiri after just two minutes.

Goalposts too big! Switzerland vs Lithuania WC qualifier delayed under bizarre circumstances - watch

Steve Smith has said that he would be happy to return as Australia captain given the national selectors want him for the role. Smith, while giving his complete support to current Australian captains Tim Paine and Aaron Finch, said he would have no problems if the cricket board looks for a new captain while adding he is now better equipped to lead the side again.&nbsp;

However, Smith admitted he hasn’t always been sure about taking back the leadership role following the intense trauma of the infamous Cape Town ball-tampering scandal.&nbsp;

Speculations surrounding Australia captaincy have constantly popped up since Smith’s return to international cricket after completing his one-year ban. While many have said that Smith should get the captaincy back, others have the opinion that the ace Australian batsman should never lead the side again.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-cant-expect-everyone-virat-kohli-warns-players-cooked-in-bubble-life-ahead-of-ipl-2021-374036" hreflang="en">'You can't expect everyone...': Virat Kohli warns players 'cooked' in bubble life ahead of IPL 2021</a>

“I’ve certainly had a lot of time to think about it and I guess now I’ve got to a point where if the opportunity did come up&nbsp;again&nbsp;I would be keen,” Smith told News Corp.&nbsp;

“If it was what Cricket Australia wanted and it was what was best for the team at the time, it’s certainly something I would be interested in now, that’s for sure.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I’m always going to have to live with Cape Town regardless of whether I lead again or not. It’s always there.&nbsp;I’ve been through all that now. Time keeps moving forward, and I’ve learnt so much the last few years about myself and grown as a human being.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricketing-world-beware-ian-chappell-predicts-era-of-dominance-for-team-india-374020" hreflang="en">'Cricketing world, beware': Ian Chappell predicts era of dominance for Team India</a>

“I feel as though I’d be in a better place if the opportunity did come up. If it doesn’t, that’s fine as well and I’d support whoever is in charge the same way I’ve supported Tim and&nbsp;Finchy.”&nbsp;

Pain is set to lead Australia in the home Ashes while Finch will take the charge in T20 World Cup in October. However, Cricket Australia has been looking for a succession plan with national selector Trevor Hohns already saying that his panel must start considering the list of next Australia captain.&nbsp;

Pat Cummins is another name in contention to lead the side along with Smith.&nbsp;

Steve Smith has said that he would be happy to return as Australia captain given the national selectors want him for the role. Smith, while giving his complete support to current Australian captains Tim Paine and Aaron Finch, said he would have no problems if the cricket board looks for a new captain while adding he is now better equipped to lead the side again.

Steve Smith has said that he would be happy to return as Australia captain given the national selectors want him for the role. Smith, while giving his complete support to current Australian captains Tim Paine and Aaron Finch, said he would have no problems if the cricket board looks for a new captain while adding he is now better equipped to lead the side again. However, Smith admitted he hasn’t always been sure about taking back the leadership role following the intense trauma of the infamous Cape Town ball-tampering scandal. Speculations surrounding Australia captaincy have constantly popped up since Smith’s return to international cricket after completing his one-year ban. While many have said that Smith should get the captaincy back, others have the opinion that the ace Australian batsman should never lead the side again. ALSO READ: 'You can't expect everyone...': Virat Kohli warns players 'cooked' in bubble life ahead of IPL 2021 “I’ve certainly had a lot of time to think about it and I guess now I’ve got to a point where if the opportunity did come up again I would be keen,” Smith told News Corp. “If it was what Cricket Australia wanted and it was what was best for the team at the time, it’s certainly something I would be interested in now, that’s for sure. “I’m always going to have to live with Cape Town regardless of whether I lead again or not. It’s always there. I’ve been through all that now. Time keeps moving forward, and I’ve learnt so much the last few years about myself and grown as a human being. ALSO READ: 'Cricketing world, beware': Ian Chappell predicts era of dominance for Team India “I feel as though I’d be in a better place if the opportunity did come up. If it doesn’t, that’s fine as well and I’d support whoever is in charge the same way I’ve supported Tim and Finchy.” Pain is set to lead Australia in the home Ashes while Finch will take the charge in T20 World Cup in October. However, Cricket Australia has been looking for a succession plan with national selector Trevor Hohns already saying that his panel must start considering the list of next Australia captain. Pat Cummins is another name in contention to lead the side along with Smith.

'I would be keen': Steve Smith interested in taking charge as next Australia captain

Indian captain Virat Kohli has warned&nbsp;that players are suffering after staying months inside bio-secure bubbles amid the COVID-19 pandemic as&nbsp;they head into the highly competitive Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021.&nbsp;

Kohli, who has been vocal about hectic scheduling amid stringent restrictions due to the virus, again raised&nbsp;concerns&nbsp;following the completion of the three-match ODI series which India won 2-1 in Pune on Sunday.&nbsp;

Players from both India and England moved on immediately to join their respective IPL 2021 squads and will again have to stay within the limits of the IPL “bubble”.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Scheduling needs to be looked at in future, because playing in 'bubbles' for so long, two to three months, is going to be very, very difficult going forward," Kohli said.&nbsp;

"You can't expect everyone to be at the same level of mental strength.&nbsp;Some times&nbsp;you do get cooked and you do feel like a bit of a change.&nbsp;

"I am sure things will be discussed and things will change in the future as well.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"But a different tournament, it brings fresh challenges heading into the IPL."&nbsp;

Since the restart of cricket in August 2020, international players have been restricted to staying inside bio-secure bubbles since August with small breaks.&nbsp;

From September to January, Indian players went through the strictest quarantine and bio-bubble rules in the delayed IPL 2020 in UAE followed by India’s tour of Australia. The Indian players had a short break between the end of Australia&nbsp;seres&nbsp;and the start of England series, which comprised of four Tests, five T20Is and three ODIs.&nbsp;

England’s much-talked-about rest and rotate policy made sure players got rest during their three months touring Sri Lanka, where they played two Tests, and India.&nbsp;

England players including Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler (both Rajasthan Royals), Jonny Bairstow (Sunrisers Hyderabad) and Sunday's batting hero Sam Curran (Chennai Super Kings) are staying on to join the IPL.&nbsp;

Both Buttler and Bairstow have said that they have “enough” left in their batteries to play the IPL 2021 before going back to the international calendar and gear up for T20 World Cup, scheduled to be hosted by India later this year.&nbsp;

"It's been great that everyone's health has been really looked after and whenever it's possible to get out of the 'bubble' and back in," said Buttler, who stood in as captain for injured Eoin Morgan in the last two one-day internationals.

"So we are all very thankful for that to help with those situations and also it's about how we plan moving forward. That's going to be part of player welfare."

Indian captain Virat Kohli has warned that players are suffering after staying months inside bio-secure bubbles amid the COVID-19 pandemic as they head into the highly competitive Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021.

Indian captain Virat Kohli has warned that players are suffering after staying months inside bio-secure bubbles amid the COVID-19 pandemic as they head into the highly competitive Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. Kohli, who has been vocal about hectic scheduling amid stringent restrictions due to the virus, again raised concerns following the completion of the three-match ODI series which India won 2-1 in Pune on Sunday. Players from both India and England moved on immediately to join their respective IPL 2021 squads and will again have to stay within the limits of the IPL “bubble”. "Scheduling needs to be looked at in future, because playing in 'bubbles' for so long, two to three months, is going to be very, very difficult going forward," Kohli said. "You can't expect everyone to be at the same level of mental strength. Some times you do get cooked and you do feel like a bit of a change. "I am sure things will be discussed and things will change in the future as well. "But a different tournament, it brings fresh challenges heading into the IPL." Since the restart of cricket in August 2020, international players have been restricted to staying inside bio-secure bubbles since August with small breaks. From September to January, Indian players went through the strictest quarantine and bio-bubble rules in the delayed IPL 2020 in UAE followed by India’s tour of Australia. The Indian players had a short break between the end of Australia seres and the start of England series, which comprised of four Tests, five T20Is and three ODIs. England’s much-talked-about rest and rotate policy made sure players got rest during their three months touring Sri Lanka, where they played two Tests, and India. England players including Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler (both Rajasthan Royals), Jonny Bairstow (Sunrisers Hyderabad) and Sunday's batting hero Sam Curran (Chennai Super Kings) are staying on to join the IPL. Both Buttler and Bairstow have said that they have “enough” left in their batteries to play the IPL 2021 before going back to the international calendar and gear up for T20 World Cup, scheduled to be hosted by India later this year. "It's been great that everyone's health has been really looked after and whenever it's possible to get out of the 'bubble' and back in," said Buttler, who stood in as captain for injured Eoin Morgan in the last two one-day internationals. "So we are all very thankful for that to help with those situations and also it's about how we plan moving forward. That's going to be part of player welfare."

'You can't expect everyone...': Virat Kohli warns players 'cooked' in bubble life ahead of IPL 2021

Following India’s stunning clean-sweep of the England tour where the Virat Kohli-led outfit won the Test, T20I and ODI series, former Australia captain Ian Chappell has sounded a warning to other teams&nbsp;saying India are on their way to dominance.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Chappell is of the view that the emergence of young talents well equipped to take on the world’s best strikes a note of&nbsp;fear. The former Aussie skipper heaped praise on the Indian team while lauding their ability and confidence to fight in overseas conditions as well.&nbsp;

“India’s recent successes in Australia – particularly the latest one – have only reinforced the players’ belief in their ability to win under any circumstance. In an era where teams struggle overseas, India now has the depth of talent to alter that pattern. No longer can opponents afford to say, when India&nbsp;are&nbsp;on their doorstep, ‘Just pick a string of fast bowlers with long run-ups and the series will be ours’,” Chappell wrote in his column at&nbsp;ESPNcricinfo.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-will-not-panic-despite-india-tour-defeats-buttler-374012" hreflang="en">England will not panic despite India tour defeats: Buttler</a>

Chappell then answered one of the most asked questions, can India carry on with their dominance for&nbsp;years?:&nbsp;&nbsp;“‘Can India replicate the dominant periods of West Indies and Australia?’: “India have finally got the equation right and as long as they avoid the pitfalls often associated with continuing success, they are better equipped than any team to produce an era of dominance. The rest of the cricketing world beware. The emergence of such talents as Shubman Gill, Mohammed Siraj, Navdeep Saini, Washington Sundar, T Natarajan, and&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;Patel would have been monumental if it had happened in the space of three years, let alone just three months as it did.&nbsp;

“And when you consider that Shardul Thakur excelled in just his second game and the ebullient Rishabh Pant was an international match-winner before his 20th appearance, it really is a rosy picture. A rosy picture, that is, if you’re an Indian fan; for the rest of the cricket world, it strikes a note of fear,” Chappell concluded.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-edge-england-in-odi-decider-despite-curran-heroics-374002" hreflang="en">India edge England in ODI decider despite Curran heroics</a>

India defeated England 2-1 in the three-match ODI series to wrap up the season on a high. The focus will now shift on the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, scheduled to start from April 9.&nbsp;

Following India’s stunning clean-sweep of the England tour where the Virat Kohli-led outfit won the Test, T20I and ODI series, former Australia captain Ian Chappell has sounded a warning to other teams saying India are on their way to dominance.

Following India’s stunning clean-sweep of the England tour where the Virat Kohli-led outfit won the Test, T20I and ODI series, former Australia captain Ian Chappell has sounded a warning to other teams saying India are on their way to dominance. Chappell is of the view that the emergence of young talents well equipped to take on the world’s best strikes a note of fear. The former Aussie skipper heaped praise on the Indian team while lauding their ability and confidence to fight in overseas conditions as well. “India’s recent successes in Australia – particularly the latest one – have only reinforced the players’ belief in their ability to win under any circumstance. In an era where teams struggle overseas, India now has the depth of talent to alter that pattern. No longer can opponents afford to say, when India are on their doorstep, ‘Just pick a string of fast bowlers with long run-ups and the series will be ours’,” Chappell wrote in his column at ESPNcricinfo. ALSO READ: England will not panic despite India tour defeats: Buttler Chappell then answered one of the most asked questions, can India carry on with their dominance for years?: “‘Can India replicate the dominant periods of West Indies and Australia?’: “India have finally got the equation right and as long as they avoid the pitfalls often associated with continuing success, they are better equipped than any team to produce an era of dominance. The rest of the cricketing world beware. The emergence of such talents as Shubman Gill, Mohammed Siraj, Navdeep Saini, Washington Sundar, T Natarajan, and Axar Patel would have been monumental if it had happened in the space of three years, let alone just three months as it did. “And when you consider that Shardul Thakur excelled in just his second game and the ebullient Rishabh Pant was an international match-winner before his 20th appearance, it really is a rosy picture. A rosy picture, that is, if you’re an Indian fan; for the rest of the cricket world, it strikes a note of fear,” Chappell concluded. ALSO READ: India edge England in ODI decider despite Curran heroics India defeated England 2-1 in the three-match ODI series to wrap up the season on a high. The focus will now shift on the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, scheduled to start from April 9.

'Cricketing world, beware': Ian Chappell predicts era of dominance for Team India

England all-rounder Ben Stokes on Friday demolished the Indian bowling attack as he hammed 99 runs off just 52 deliveries in the second ODI against India at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune. However, Stokes missed out on a well-deserved century after he edged a Bhuvneshwar Kumar delivery at 99. As Stokes walked back to the dugout after&nbsp;his dismissal, he was seen looking up to the heavens and saying "sorry” to his late father.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Stokes was even seen showing the folded middle finger gesture as a tribute to his father, Ged. Ben's late father&nbsp;got part of his finger amputated instead of getting it operated on to continue his rugby league career in the 1980s as he couldn't afford to miss matches.&nbsp;

Stokes looked gutted as he made the long walk back to the dugout after missing out on what would have been his fourth ODI century. However, he did the damage in his 99-run knock as he smoked 10 sixes and four boundaries.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/2nd-odi-bairstow-stokes-power-england-to-6-wicket-win-visitors-level-series-1-1-373502" hreflang="en">2nd ODI: Bairstow-Stokes power England to 6-wicket win, visitors level series 1-1</a>

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Ben Stokes said "SORRY" to his Dad after getting out on 99. 
Deserved a 100 ! 
What a knock !🔥<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BenStokes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BenStokes</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> <a href="https://t.co/GgfUVaUBWy">pic.twitter.com/GgfUVaUBWy</a>
— Anubhav Chatterjee (@anubhav__tweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/anubhav__tweets/status/1375467170608467975?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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England went on to seal a comfortable six-wicket win in the second ODI to level the series 1-1. Jonny Bairstow hammered a brilliant century while stitching a memorable partnership with Stokes.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pandya-curran-brothers-create-history-as-they-become-1st-pair-to-bowl-and-bat-in-tandem-373493" hreflang="en">Pandya, Curran Brothers create history as they become 1st pair to bowl and bat in tandem</a>

Stokes was named the Gamechanger of the match for his heroics.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Earlier, Stokes received an official warning from on-field officials after mistakenly applied saliva on the match-ball during the second ODI on Friday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Applying saliva has been banned by the ICC after matches resumed post COVID-19 forced break.&nbsp;

England all-rounder Ben Stokes on Friday demolished the Indian bowling attack as he hammed 99 runs off just 52 deliveries in the second ODI against India at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune.

England all-rounder Ben Stokes on Friday demolished the Indian bowling attack as he hammed 99 runs off just 52 deliveries in the second ODI against India at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune. However, Stokes missed out on a well-deserved century after he edged a Bhuvneshwar Kumar delivery at 99. As Stokes walked back to the dugout after his dismissal, he was seen looking up to the heavens and saying "sorry” to his late father. Stokes was even seen showing the folded middle finger gesture as a tribute to his father, Ged. Ben's late father got part of his finger amputated instead of getting it operated on to continue his rugby league career in the 1980s as he couldn't afford to miss matches. Stokes looked gutted as he made the long walk back to the dugout after missing out on what would have been his fourth ODI century. However, he did the damage in his 99-run knock as he smoked 10 sixes and four boundaries. ALSO READ: 2nd ODI: Bairstow-Stokes power England to 6-wicket win, visitors level series 1-1 Ben Stokes said "SORRY" to his Dad after getting out on 99. Deserved a 100 ! What a knock !🔥#BenStokes | #INDvENG pic.twitter.com/GgfUVaUBWy — Anubhav Chatterjee (@anubhav__tweets) March 26, 2021 × England went on to seal a comfortable six-wicket win in the second ODI to level the series 1-1. Jonny Bairstow hammered a brilliant century while stitching a memorable partnership with Stokes. ALSO READ: Pandya, Curran Brothers create history as they become 1st pair to bowl and bat in tandem Stokes was named the Gamechanger of the match for his heroics. Earlier, Stokes received an official warning from on-field officials after mistakenly applied saliva on the match-ball during the second ODI on Friday. Applying saliva has been banned by the ICC after matches resumed post COVID-19 forced break.

2nd ODI: Ben Stokes says 'sorry' to his late father after getting dismissed for 99 - Watch

England on Friday levelled the three-match ODI series against India as the Jos Buttler-led side sealed a six-wicket win on Friday at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune following a blistering century by Jonny Bairstow and a sensational 99-run knock by Ben Stokes.&nbsp;

England, after winning the toss, invited India to bat first but the Men in Blue lost openers Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma early in the innings. While Virat Kohli and KL Rahul stitched a crucial partnership, the Indian captain's wait for his 71st international century continued after he was dismissed for 66.

However, KL Rahul went on to record his fifth ODI ton whereas Rishabh Pant hammered the English bowlers on his way to 77 runs off 40 deliveries. Hardik Pandya finished the innings strongly for India as the Men in Blue posted a massive 336/6 in 50 overs.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pandya-curran-brothers-create-history-as-they-become-1st-pair-to-bowl-and-bat-in-tandem-373493" hreflang="en">Pandya, Curran Brothers create history as they become 1st pair to bowl and bat together</a>

The visitors, chasing 337, were off to a flyer with openers Bairstow and Jason Roy scoring 110 runs for the opening stand. However, the onslaught began after Roy departed. Ben Stokes and Bairstow, after settling down, made a mockery of the Indian bowlers as they dealt in sixes and boundaries.

While Bairstow scored 124 off 112, Stokes smashed 99 off just 52 deliveries. While Buttler departed for a duck, Dawid Malan and debutant Liam Livingstone finished the job and helped England win by&nbsp;six wickets.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bizarre-dead-ball-rule-denies-rishabh-pant-and-team-india-a-boundary-know-the-rule-here-373437" hreflang="en">Bizarre dead-ball rule denies Rishabh Pant and Team India a boundary - Know the rule here</a>

With the series firmly poised at 1-1, India and England will lock horns on Sunday for the third and final ODI at the same venue.

England on Friday levelled the three-match ODI series against India as the Jos Buttler-led side sealed a six-wicket win on Friday at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune following a blistering century by Jonny Bairstow and a sensational 99-run knock by Ben Stokes.

England on Friday levelled the three-match ODI series against India as the Jos Buttler-led side sealed a six-wicket win on Friday at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune following a blistering century by Jonny Bairstow and a sensational 99-run knock by Ben Stokes. England, after winning the toss, invited India to bat first but the Men in Blue lost openers Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma early in the innings. While Virat Kohli and KL Rahul stitched a crucial partnership, the Indian captain's wait for his 71st international century continued after he was dismissed for 66. However, KL Rahul went on to record his fifth ODI ton whereas Rishabh Pant hammered the English bowlers on his way to 77 runs off 40 deliveries. Hardik Pandya finished the innings strongly for India as the Men in Blue posted a massive 336/6 in 50 overs. ALSO READ: Pandya, Curran Brothers create history as they become 1st pair to bowl and bat together The visitors, chasing 337, were off to a flyer with openers Bairstow and Jason Roy scoring 110 runs for the opening stand. However, the onslaught began after Roy departed. Ben Stokes and Bairstow, after settling down, made a mockery of the Indian bowlers as they dealt in sixes and boundaries. While Bairstow scored 124 off 112, Stokes smashed 99 off just 52 deliveries. While Buttler departed for a duck, Dawid Malan and debutant Liam Livingstone finished the job and helped England win by six wickets. ALSO READ: Bizarre dead-ball rule denies Rishabh Pant and Team India a boundary - Know the rule here With the series firmly poised at 1-1, India and England will lock horns on Sunday for the third and final ODI at the same venue.

2nd ODI: Bairstow-Stokes power England to 6-wicket win, visitors level series 1-1

A rare incident happened during the first innings of the second ODI between India and England at the Maharashtra Cricket Association in Pune on Friday. For the first time in the history of ODI cricket, a pair of brothers on opposite sides&nbsp;batted and bowled in tandem in the same match.&nbsp;

Hardik Pandya and Krunal Pandya – Pandya Brothers – and Sam Curran and Tom Curran – Curran Brothers – were in action all together during the first innings of the second ODI&nbsp;after Rishabh Pant was dismissed in the fifth delivery of the 47th&nbsp;over. Krunal walked out to bat, creating a unique record in the world of ODI cricket.&nbsp;

Talking about the performance, Hardik smashed 35 off just 16 balls to take India to a massive total of 336 whereas Krunal supported his brother with 12 off 9. The Currans had a tough outing with the ball with Tom conceding 83 off 10 overs&nbsp;while Sam conceded 47 off his 7 overs.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bizarre-dead-ball-rule-denies-rishabh-pant-and-team-india-a-boundary-know-the-rule-here-373437" hreflang="en">Bizarre dead-ball rule denies Rishabh Pant and Team India a boundary - Know the rule here</a>

Only four times it&nbsp;has happened in the history of ODI cricket that pair of brothers have played on opposite sides. While Mark and Steve Waugh played against the Flower brothers of Zimbabwe, Surinder and Mohinder Amarnath had played against Sadiq and Mushtaq Mohammad of Pakistan in 1978.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Umar Akmal and Kamran Akmal had locked horns against David and Michael Hussie in 2012.&nbsp;But interestingly, not everyone&nbsp;was in action together at the same time during the matches.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-joins-ricky-ponting-in-an-elite-list-after-attaining-another-record-in-odis-373412" hreflang="en">Virat Kohli joins Ricky Ponting in an elite list after attaining another record in ODIs</a>

Hence, Pandya Brother and Curran Brothers became the first pair to play in tandem in Pune on Friday. Notably, they all played in the first ODI as well but didn't bowl and batted together.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

A rare incident happened during the first innings of the second ODI between India and England at the Maharashtra Cricket Association in Pune on Friday. For the first time in the history of ODI cricket, a pair of brothers on opposite sides batted and bowled in tandem in the same match.

A rare incident happened during the first innings of the second ODI between India and England at the Maharashtra Cricket Association in Pune on Friday. For the first time in the history of ODI cricket, a pair of brothers on opposite sides batted and bowled in tandem in the same match. Hardik Pandya and Krunal Pandya – Pandya Brothers – and Sam Curran and Tom Curran – Curran Brothers – were in action all together during the first innings of the second ODI after Rishabh Pant was dismissed in the fifth delivery of the 47th over. Krunal walked out to bat, creating a unique record in the world of ODI cricket. Talking about the performance, Hardik smashed 35 off just 16 balls to take India to a massive total of 336 whereas Krunal supported his brother with 12 off 9. The Currans had a tough outing with the ball with Tom conceding 83 off 10 overs while Sam conceded 47 off his 7 overs. ALSO READ: Bizarre dead-ball rule denies Rishabh Pant and Team India a boundary - Know the rule here Only four times it has happened in the history of ODI cricket that pair of brothers have played on opposite sides. While Mark and Steve Waugh played against the Flower brothers of Zimbabwe, Surinder and Mohinder Amarnath had played against Sadiq and Mushtaq Mohammad of Pakistan in 1978. Umar Akmal and Kamran Akmal had locked horns against David and Michael Hussie in 2012. But interestingly, not everyone was in action together at the same time during the matches. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli joins Ricky Ponting in an elite list after attaining another record in ODIs Hence, Pandya Brother and Curran Brothers became the first pair to play in tandem in Pune on Friday. Notably, they all played in the first ODI as well but didn't bowl and batted together.

Pandya, Curran Brothers create history as they become 1st pair to bowl and bat in tandem

Footballing legend Thierry Henry on Friday announced that he will be quitting social media in a bid to take a strong stand against racism and bullying on social media platforms. Henry said he will be disabling his social media accounts till authorities take substantial action&nbsp;against racist comments.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Henry, in a statement, said that "the people in power" are quick to react to copyright infringement but don't show the same "vigour&nbsp;and ferocity” when it comes to tackling or taking action against racism and online bullying.&nbsp;

The former Arsenal forward said that it has become extremely easy for individuals to create accounts while remaining anonymous to "bully and harass” people while hoping a change will soon come.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-fifa-punishment-for-germany-national-team-despite-human-rights-protest-373460" hreflang="en">No FIFA punishment for Germany national team despite 'Human Rights' protest</a>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{3f4b3bf7-5806-4a1b-9365-bb89a2aed36d}{14}" paraid="393668628" >Thierry&nbsp;Henry’s&nbsp;full&nbsp;statement:&nbsp;</h2>

Hi Guys&nbsp;

From tomorrow morning I will be removing myself from social media until the people in power are able to regulate their platforms with the same&nbsp;vigour&nbsp;and ferocity that they currently do when you infringe copyright. The sheer volume of racism, bullying and resulting mental torture to individuals is too toxic to ignore. There HAS to be some accountability. It is far too easy to create an account, use it to bully and harass without consequence and still remain anonymous. Until this changes, I will be disabling my accounts across all social platforms. I’m hoping this happens soon.&nbsp;

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Hi Guys 
 
From tomorrow morning I will be removing myself from social media until the people in power are able to regulate their platforms with the same vigour and ferocity that they currently do when you infringe copyright.... <a href="https://t.co/gXSObqo4xg">pic.twitter.com/gXSObqo4xg</a>
— Thierry Henry (@ThierryHenry) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThierryHenry/status/1375405445108674571?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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There has been plenty of debate on whether social media platforms and the top hierarchy are doing enough to tackle growing racism online. Borussia Dortmund recently had condemned racist abuse towards Jude Bellingham after he posted screenshots of comments on the photo-blogging platform Instagram.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hamilton-educates-himself-as-bahrain-gp-under-fire-over-alleged-rights-abuses-373323" hreflang="en">Hamilton 'educates' himself as Bahrain GP under fire over alleged rights abuses</a>

“Social media platforms from our perspective clearly haven’t done enough to eradicate this problem, both from a technology perspective and from a monitoring perspective and finding out who is behind these accounts,” Jonas Baer-Hoffmann told AFP.&nbsp;

Not only Bellingham, the likes of Marcus Rashford, Raheem Sterling among other prominent stars in football world have been subjected to racist abuse on social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;

FIFPro's&nbsp;"Shaping Our Future" had highlighted the role played by footballers to fight for social justice but pointed at the prevalence of abuse inside stadiums.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Football overall has a significant problem with racism. At the moment we are so concentrated on social media, because it is getting worse, but also because we are not experiencing the same&nbsp;problems&nbsp;we had pre-Covid in stadiums because there are no people there,” Baer-Hoffmann added.&nbsp;

“Before Covid came essentially we had&nbsp;reports&nbsp;every week about horrendous attacks on players in stadiums, and that problem will come back I’m pretty sure.”&nbsp;

Footballing legend Thierry Henry on Friday announced that he will be quitting social media in a bid to take a strong stand against racism and bullying on social media platforms.

Footballing legend Thierry Henry on Friday announced that he will be quitting social media in a bid to take a strong stand against racism and bullying on social media platforms. Henry said he will be disabling his social media accounts till authorities take substantial action against racist comments. Henry, in a statement, said that "the people in power" are quick to react to copyright infringement but don't show the same "vigour and ferocity” when it comes to tackling or taking action against racism and online bullying. The former Arsenal forward said that it has become extremely easy for individuals to create accounts while remaining anonymous to "bully and harass” people while hoping a change will soon come. ALSO READ: No FIFA punishment for Germany national team despite 'Human Rights' protest Thierry Henry’s full statement: Hi Guys From tomorrow morning I will be removing myself from social media until the people in power are able to regulate their platforms with the same vigour and ferocity that they currently do when you infringe copyright. The sheer volume of racism, bullying and resulting mental torture to individuals is too toxic to ignore. There HAS to be some accountability. It is far too easy to create an account, use it to bully and harass without consequence and still remain anonymous. Until this changes, I will be disabling my accounts across all social platforms. I’m hoping this happens soon. Hi Guys From tomorrow morning I will be removing myself from social media until the people in power are able to regulate their platforms with the same vigour and ferocity that they currently do when you infringe copyright.... pic.twitter.com/gXSObqo4xg — Thierry Henry (@ThierryHenry) March 26, 2021 × There has been plenty of debate on whether social media platforms and the top hierarchy are doing enough to tackle growing racism online. Borussia Dortmund recently had condemned racist abuse towards Jude Bellingham after he posted screenshots of comments on the photo-blogging platform Instagram. ALSO READ: Hamilton 'educates' himself as Bahrain GP under fire over alleged rights abuses “Social media platforms from our perspective clearly haven’t done enough to eradicate this problem, both from a technology perspective and from a monitoring perspective and finding out who is behind these accounts,” Jonas Baer-Hoffmann told AFP. Not only Bellingham, the likes of Marcus Rashford, Raheem Sterling among other prominent stars in football world have been subjected to racist abuse on social media. FIFPro's "Shaping Our Future" had highlighted the role played by footballers to fight for social justice but pointed at the prevalence of abuse inside stadiums. “Football overall has a significant problem with racism. At the moment we are so concentrated on social media, because it is getting worse, but also because we are not experiencing the same problems we had pre-Covid in stadiums because there are no people there,” Baer-Hoffmann added. “Before Covid came essentially we had reports every week about horrendous attacks on players in stadiums, and that problem will come back I’m pretty sure.”

Football legend Thierry Henry quits social media to fight racism, online bullying

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