FIFA on Friday said it will not&nbsp;sanction&nbsp;the German national team for its T-shirt protest in support to human rights before the World Cup qualifier match against Iceland on Thursday.&nbsp;

Germany head coach Joachim Loew said that he supported the players after the squad word black t-shirts with 'Human Rights’ written over it – aimed at 2022 World Cup host Qatar. Germany went on to defeat Iceland 3-0 but their stand got the footballing world talking.&nbsp;

"It was a sign that we stand up for all human rights in the world, no matter where," said Loew after the qualifier in Duisburg.&nbsp;

FIFA prohibits political statements during matches but the governing body told AFP's SID that they will not sanction the German national team.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/germany-players-in-human-rights-message-ahead-of-world-cup-qualifier-373322" hreflang="en">Germany players in 'Human Rights' message ahead of World Cup qualifier</a>

"FIFA believes in freedom of expression and in the power of football to drive positive change," it said in a statement on Friday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Earlier, Norway national team also staged a similar protest connected to human rights issues in Qatar.&nbsp;And FIFA responded by saying it will not&nbsp;penalise&nbsp;Norway for the protest.&nbsp;

Notably, Human rights groups have been critical of Qatar over its treatment of migrant workers. However, Qatar disputes the claims.&nbsp;

The German government in Berlin welcomed the national team's protest in "making it clear once again what values they stand for," said Chancellor Angela Merkel's spokesman Steffen Seibert on Friday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/germany-england-italy-win-but-spain-held-in-world-cup-qualifying-373210" hreflang="en">Germany, England, Italy win but Spain held in World Cup qualifying</a>

"That's something good because the national team" represents Germany, and so "it's good if it professes the values of our liberal democracy," Seibert added.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Dagmar Freitag, chair of the German parliament's sports committee, hinted towards double standards in the football team's protest.&nbsp;

Freitag welcomed the stance but pointed out that it put the Bayern Munich players involved "in a difficult situation" as Qatar's national airline sponsors the club world champions.&nbsp;

(With AFP inputs)&nbsp;

FIFA on Friday said it will not sanction the German national team for its T-shirt protest in support to human rights before the World Cup qualifier match against Iceland on Thursday.

FIFA on Friday said it will not sanction the German national team for its T-shirt protest in support to human rights before the World Cup qualifier match against Iceland on Thursday. Germany head coach Joachim Loew said that he supported the players after the squad word black t-shirts with 'Human Rights’ written over it – aimed at 2022 World Cup host Qatar. Germany went on to defeat Iceland 3-0 but their stand got the footballing world talking. "It was a sign that we stand up for all human rights in the world, no matter where," said Loew after the qualifier in Duisburg. FIFA prohibits political statements during matches but the governing body told AFP's SID that they will not sanction the German national team. ALSO READ: Germany players in 'Human Rights' message ahead of World Cup qualifier "FIFA believes in freedom of expression and in the power of football to drive positive change," it said in a statement on Friday. Earlier, Norway national team also staged a similar protest connected to human rights issues in Qatar. And FIFA responded by saying it will not penalise Norway for the protest. Notably, Human rights groups have been critical of Qatar over its treatment of migrant workers. However, Qatar disputes the claims. The German government in Berlin welcomed the national team's protest in "making it clear once again what values they stand for," said Chancellor Angela Merkel's spokesman Steffen Seibert on Friday. ALSO READ: Germany, England, Italy win but Spain held in World Cup qualifying "That's something good because the national team" represents Germany, and so "it's good if it professes the values of our liberal democracy," Seibert added. Dagmar Freitag, chair of the German parliament's sports committee, hinted towards double standards in the football team's protest. Freitag welcomed the stance but pointed out that it put the Bayern Munich players involved "in a difficult situation" as Qatar's national airline sponsors the club world champions. (With AFP inputs)

No FIFA punishment for Germany national team despite 'Human Rights' protest

Another bizarre rule of cricket created controversy in the ongoing second ODI between India and England when the Men in Blue and Rishabh Pant were not given a boundary due&nbsp;after bowler Tom Curran appealed for LBW at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune on Friday.&nbsp;

While the rule was correctly implemented by the umpires, Pant found himself in an unfortunate position as despite hitting a boundary, he wasn't awarded a single run for it.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The incident took place in the 40th&nbsp;over of the first innings, bowled by Tom Curran. The England seamer bowled a yorker as the ball ricocheted off to the boundary rope. England appealed strongly for an LBW&nbsp;and&nbsp;the on-field umpire Virender Singh gave the southpaw out.&nbsp;However, Pant took the DRS instantly and the slow-motion replays clearly showed that the ball came off&nbsp;Pant's&nbsp;bat before going under his legs and racing past wicket-keeper Jos Buttler to the boundary rope.&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>

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India don't get the four despite Pant hitting it because umpire gave it out 😊
— Saurabh Malhotra (@MalhotraSaurabh) <a href="https://twitter.com/MalhotraSaurabh/status/1375399390760828933?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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One of those rules that needs to be changed asap. Imagine happening this in a closely fought World Cup Semi-Final or Final. DRS finds that the batsman nicked a boundary but the team is not getting 4 runs cos the umpire had mistakenly given it out. Absurd. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndvEng?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndvEng</a>
— Mazher Arshad (@MazherArshad) <a href="https://twitter.com/MazherArshad/status/1375401528563994626?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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So why were Pant and India not given a boundary when the ball clearly struck the bat?&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/as-a-fast-bowler-shoaib-akhtar-heaps-praise-on-prasidh-krishna-after-impressive-odi-debut-373360" hreflang="en">'As a fast bowler...': Shoaib Akhtar heaps praise on Prasidh Krishna after impressive ODI debut</a>

Clause 3.7 of Appendix D of the ICC playing conditions, which deal with DRS, explains&nbsp;the reason:&nbsp;“If following a player review request, an original decision of Out is changed to Not out, then the ball is still deemed to have become dead when the original decision was made,” it states. “The batting side, while benefiting from the reversal of the dismissal, shall not benefit from any runs that may subsequently have accrued from the delivery had the on-field umpire originally.”&nbsp;

However, fans were left unimpressed by the rule and asked the ICC to amend it to avoid a ICC World Cup 2019 final-like situation in future.&nbsp;

Another bizarre rule of cricket created controversy in the ongoing second ODI between India and England when the Men in Blue and Rishabh Pant were not given a boundary due after bowler Tom Curran appealed for LBW at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune on Friday.

Another bizarre rule of cricket created controversy in the ongoing second ODI between India and England when the Men in Blue and Rishabh Pant were not given a boundary due after bowler Tom Curran appealed for LBW at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune on Friday. While the rule was correctly implemented by the umpires, Pant found himself in an unfortunate position as despite hitting a boundary, he wasn't awarded a single run for it. The incident took place in the 40th over of the first innings, bowled by Tom Curran. The England seamer bowled a yorker as the ball ricocheted off to the boundary rope. England appealed strongly for an LBW and the on-field umpire Virender Singh gave the southpaw out. However, Pant took the DRS instantly and the slow-motion replays clearly showed that the ball came off Pant's bat before going under his legs and racing past wicket-keeper Jos Buttler to the boundary rope. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli joins Ricky Ponting in an elite list after attaining another record in ODIs India don't get the four despite Pant hitting it because umpire gave it out 😊 — Saurabh Malhotra (@MalhotraSaurabh) March 26, 2021 × One of those rules that needs to be changed asap. Imagine happening this in a closely fought World Cup Semi-Final or Final. DRS finds that the batsman nicked a boundary but the team is not getting 4 runs cos the umpire had mistakenly given it out. Absurd. #IndvEng — Mazher Arshad (@MazherArshad) March 26, 2021 × So why were Pant and India not given a boundary when the ball clearly struck the bat? ALSO READ: 'As a fast bowler...': Shoaib Akhtar heaps praise on Prasidh Krishna after impressive ODI debut Clause 3.7 of Appendix D of the ICC playing conditions, which deal with DRS, explains the reason: “If following a player review request, an original decision of Out is changed to Not out, then the ball is still deemed to have become dead when the original decision was made,” it states. “The batting side, while benefiting from the reversal of the dismissal, shall not benefit from any runs that may subsequently have accrued from the delivery had the on-field umpire originally.” However, fans were left unimpressed by the rule and asked the ICC to amend it to avoid a ICC World Cup 2019 final-like situation in future.

Bizarre dead-ball rule denies Rishabh Pant and Team India a boundary - Know the rule here

Virat Kohli on Friday continued his record-breaking&nbsp;run in&nbsp;international cricket&nbsp;as the Indian skipper touched the landmark of scoring 10,000 runs at the number three position during the ongoing second ODI against England at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kohli with his 66-run knock became the second batsman to score 10,000 runs at number three after former Australia captain Ricky Ponting.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ponting sits atop the standings at number three in ODIs with 12,662 runs off 330 innings. However, Kohli surpassed the 10,000-run mark while playing his 190th&nbsp;innings. The staggering difference shows the quality and consistency of Kohli in the 50-over format.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/as-a-fast-bowler-shoaib-akhtar-heaps-praise-on-prasidh-krishna-after-impressive-odi-debut-373360" hreflang="en">'As a fast bowler...': Shoaib Akhtar heaps praise on Prasidh Krishna after impressive ODI debut</a>

The third batsman on the list is former Sri Lanka wicketkeeper-batsman Kumar&nbsp;Sangakkara, who accumulated 9,747 runs in 238 innings followed by former South Africa all-rounder Jacques Kallis who had scored 7,774 runs.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Talking about the match, Kohli and KL Rahul&nbsp;stitched&nbsp;a handy partnership following the early dismissals of Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan. Following Kohli's departure, Rahul and Rishabh Pant upped the ante with the former scoring his fifth ODI century. The southpaw, meanwhile, dealt in boundaries in the second ODI against England.&nbsp;

India&nbsp;lead&nbsp;the three-match ODI series against England after winning the opener by 66 runs. The Men in Blue would&nbsp;be looking to seal the series while the visitors would be looking to keep the series alive.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mike-hesson-expects-ab-de-villiers-to-keep-wickets-for-rcb-in-ipl-2021-373335" hreflang="en">Mike Hesson expects AB de Villiers to keep wickets for RCB in IPL 2021</a>

“If you want to perform anywhere in the world against your wishes, then you have to be ready to do whatever happens at the toss. That's why we wanted to put ourselves in a similar position again even if we won the toss. Hopefully, we can do much better in the middle overs. You have to be precise in your plans and executions. That's something we did in the last game. We didn't want to take the game deep. We wanted to attack at all times,” Kohli said after the toss.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Virat Kohli on Friday continued his record-breaking run in international cricket as the Indian skipper touched the landmark of scoring 10,000 runs at the number three position during the ongoing second ODI against England at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune.

Virat Kohli on Friday continued his record-breaking run in international cricket as the Indian skipper touched the landmark of scoring 10,000 runs at the number three position during the ongoing second ODI against England at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune. Kohli with his 66-run knock became the second batsman to score 10,000 runs at number three after former Australia captain Ricky Ponting. Ponting sits atop the standings at number three in ODIs with 12,662 runs off 330 innings. However, Kohli surpassed the 10,000-run mark while playing his 190th innings. The staggering difference shows the quality and consistency of Kohli in the 50-over format. ALSO READ: 'As a fast bowler...': Shoaib Akhtar heaps praise on Prasidh Krishna after impressive ODI debut The third batsman on the list is former Sri Lanka wicketkeeper-batsman Kumar Sangakkara, who accumulated 9,747 runs in 238 innings followed by former South Africa all-rounder Jacques Kallis who had scored 7,774 runs. Talking about the match, Kohli and KL Rahul stitched a handy partnership following the early dismissals of Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan. Following Kohli's departure, Rahul and Rishabh Pant upped the ante with the former scoring his fifth ODI century. The southpaw, meanwhile, dealt in boundaries in the second ODI against England. India lead the three-match ODI series against England after winning the opener by 66 runs. The Men in Blue would be looking to seal the series while the visitors would be looking to keep the series alive. ALSO READ: Mike Hesson expects AB de Villiers to keep wickets for RCB in IPL 2021 “If you want to perform anywhere in the world against your wishes, then you have to be ready to do whatever happens at the toss. That's why we wanted to put ourselves in a similar position again even if we won the toss. Hopefully, we can do much better in the middle overs. You have to be precise in your plans and executions. That's something we did in the last game. We didn't want to take the game deep. We wanted to attack at all times,” Kohli said after the toss.

Virat Kohli joins Ricky Ponting in an elite list after attaining another record in ODIs

Young Indian pacer Prasidh Krishna has been attracting plenty of praises and eyeballs following his stunning ODI debut for India in the first match against England in Pune. Prasidh registered the best bowling figures by an Indian on ODI debut as he scalped four wickets to help India win by 66 runs. Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar is the latest to join the list of players who have heaped praise on Prasidh following his ODI debut against England.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Akhtar has labelled Prasidh Krishna as "Karishma (Miracle)” after the youngster made a terrific comeback with the ball following an onslaught by Jonny Bairstow&nbsp;in his first spell of the first ODI. Akhtar was even left impressed by the bravery shown by Prasidh as he got into a competitive mode when bowling his second spell of the match.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Akhtar opined on his&nbsp;Youtube&nbsp;channel, “He’s not Krishna, he’s ‘Karishma’ (miracle). The way he came back after getting beaten by the England openers and scalped four wickets is miraculous."&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mike-hesson-expects-ab-de-villiers-to-keep-wickets-for-rcb-in-ipl-2021-373335" hreflang="en">Mike Hesson expects AB de Villiers to keep wickets for RCB in IPL 2021</a>

“I’m very happy to see that Prasidh Krishna has made a very impactful comeback in the first ODI against England. As a fast bowler, you need to show your attitude, your guts, your talent and skill to bounce back once you are down after leaking too many runs. But the way he scalped 4 wickets, very well done and keep it up,” Shoaib further said.&nbsp;

Akthar further said that it is important for a pace bowler to not drop his pace after getting hit by a batsman.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-think-both-of-them-vvs-laxman-on-suryakumar-yadav-ishan-kishan-for-t20i-world-cup-373288" hreflang="en">'I think both of them..': VVS Laxman on Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan for T20I World Cup</a>

The Rawalpindi Express&nbsp;added, “Whenever you get hit, just remember one thing – don’t drop your pace. Just keep an eye on the wickets and aim the ball there. You have to do only this if you don’t get what to do. Keep your pace up, never let it go down. End the game by keeping the pace on the higher side."&nbsp;

Prasidh will look to continue his good run of form during the second ODI against England, which is currently being played in Pune.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Young Indian pacer Prasidh Krishna has been attracting plenty of praises and eyeballs following his stunning ODI debut for India in the first match against England in Pune.

Young Indian pacer Prasidh Krishna has been attracting plenty of praises and eyeballs following his stunning ODI debut for India in the first match against England in Pune. Prasidh registered the best bowling figures by an Indian on ODI debut as he scalped four wickets to help India win by 66 runs. Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar is the latest to join the list of players who have heaped praise on Prasidh following his ODI debut against England. Akhtar has labelled Prasidh Krishna as "Karishma (Miracle)” after the youngster made a terrific comeback with the ball following an onslaught by Jonny Bairstow in his first spell of the first ODI. Akhtar was even left impressed by the bravery shown by Prasidh as he got into a competitive mode when bowling his second spell of the match. Akhtar opined on his Youtube channel, “He’s not Krishna, he’s ‘Karishma’ (miracle). The way he came back after getting beaten by the England openers and scalped four wickets is miraculous." ALSO READ: Mike Hesson expects AB de Villiers to keep wickets for RCB in IPL 2021 “I’m very happy to see that Prasidh Krishna has made a very impactful comeback in the first ODI against England. As a fast bowler, you need to show your attitude, your guts, your talent and skill to bounce back once you are down after leaking too many runs. But the way he scalped 4 wickets, very well done and keep it up,” Shoaib further said. Akthar further said that it is important for a pace bowler to not drop his pace after getting hit by a batsman. ALSO READ: 'I think both of them..': VVS Laxman on Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan for T20I World Cup The Rawalpindi Express added, “Whenever you get hit, just remember one thing – don’t drop your pace. Just keep an eye on the wickets and aim the ball there. You have to do only this if you don’t get what to do. Keep your pace up, never let it go down. End the game by keeping the pace on the higher side." Prasidh will look to continue his good run of form during the second ODI against England, which is currently being played in Pune.

'As a fast bowler...': Shoaib Akhtar heaps praise on Prasidh Krishna after impressive ODI debut

Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) Director of Cricket, Mike Hesson has said that star player Ab de Villiers will be a real wicket-keeping option for the franchise in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, scheduled to start from April 9.&nbsp;&nbsp;

With the inclusion of Mohammed&nbsp;Azharuddeen, KS Bharat and Finn Allen, RCB have a plethora of option when it comes to wicket-keeping duties but whenever de Villiers has kept wickets for the franchise, it has provided a good balance to the outfit.&nbsp;The former South Africa captain had donned the gloves in a few IPL 2020 matches as well.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hesson&nbsp;said that&nbsp;de Villiers is expected to keep for a few matches for RCB in IPL 2021 but refused to commit a name for the wicket-keeping duties for the entire season.&nbsp;

“AB de Villiers donned the wicketkeeping gloves in a few matches last year and he is expected to do the same this year if it fixes the balance of the playing XI," said the former New Zealand cricket coach in a video posted by the official Twitter handle of RCB.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2021-who-will-captain-delhi-capitals-in-absence-of-shreyas-iyer-check-the-list-of-options-372866" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Who will captain Delhi Capitals in absence of Shreyas Iyer? Check the list of options</a>

"We were delighted with the fact that AB de Villiers loved wicketkeeping and he embraced it. He wanted to continue doing it, he is a real option. We now have a couple of other wicketkeeping options which is great. Mohammed&nbsp;Azharuddeen&nbsp;is a natural athlete with gloves and in the field. We also have KS Bharat. He is a natural keeper (and) gives us different options as well,” he added.&nbsp;

"We are not going to make the commitment now to you guys as to who will do what. We are really pleased with the options we have got and AB is certainly one of those.”&nbsp;

RCB's training camp will begin next week on Monday (March 29) ahead of their season opener against MI. De Villiers is scheduled to arrive in India on March 28.&nbsp;

"We have got players arriving all the way through till April 1. Finn Allen will be playing in T20I in New Zealand on April 1 and then he will come the day after... ABD arrives on 28," he earlier said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-think-both-of-them-vvs-laxman-on-suryakumar-yadav-ishan-kishan-for-t20i-world-cup-373288" hreflang="en">'I think both of them..': VVS Laxman on Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan for T20I World Cup</a>

"It is very different than the last year where we had everybody together for a long period of time on the back of a period where the guys had not trained or played. So, this time it is different, we got players playing international cricket over here and overseas and domestic cricket up until a handful of days ago. So, we had to prepare in slightly different ways,” he added.&nbsp;

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 commences from April 9.&nbsp;

Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) Director of Cricket, Mike Hesson has said that star player Ab de Villiers will be a real wicket-keeping option for the franchise in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, scheduled to start from April 9.

Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) Director of Cricket, Mike Hesson has said that star player Ab de Villiers will be a real wicket-keeping option for the franchise in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, scheduled to start from April 9. With the inclusion of Mohammed Azharuddeen, KS Bharat and Finn Allen, RCB have a plethora of option when it comes to wicket-keeping duties but whenever de Villiers has kept wickets for the franchise, it has provided a good balance to the outfit. The former South Africa captain had donned the gloves in a few IPL 2020 matches as well. Hesson said that de Villiers is expected to keep for a few matches for RCB in IPL 2021 but refused to commit a name for the wicket-keeping duties for the entire season. “AB de Villiers donned the wicketkeeping gloves in a few matches last year and he is expected to do the same this year if it fixes the balance of the playing XI," said the former New Zealand cricket coach in a video posted by the official Twitter handle of RCB. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Who will captain Delhi Capitals in absence of Shreyas Iyer? Check the list of options "We were delighted with the fact that AB de Villiers loved wicketkeeping and he embraced it. He wanted to continue doing it, he is a real option. We now have a couple of other wicketkeeping options which is great. Mohammed Azharuddeen is a natural athlete with gloves and in the field. We also have KS Bharat. He is a natural keeper (and) gives us different options as well,” he added. "We are not going to make the commitment now to you guys as to who will do what. We are really pleased with the options we have got and AB is certainly one of those.” RCB's training camp will begin next week on Monday (March 29) ahead of their season opener against MI. De Villiers is scheduled to arrive in India on March 28. "We have got players arriving all the way through till April 1. Finn Allen will be playing in T20I in New Zealand on April 1 and then he will come the day after... ABD arrives on 28," he earlier said. ALSO READ: 'I think both of them..': VVS Laxman on Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan for T20I World Cup "It is very different than the last year where we had everybody together for a long period of time on the back of a period where the guys had not trained or played. So, this time it is different, we got players playing international cricket over here and overseas and domestic cricket up until a handful of days ago. So, we had to prepare in slightly different ways,” he added. The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 commences from April 9.

Mike Hesson expects AB de Villiers to keep wickets for RCB in IPL 2021

Lewis Hamilton said on Thursday he has been "educating" himself and has "taken steps in private to raise issues" over allegations of human rights abuses in countries where the Formula One circus operates, including this weekend's season-opener in Bahrain.

The 36-year-old seven-time world champion led anti-racism protests on the grid last season, regularly taking a knee before the start of each race.

However, as the new Formula One season kicks off, calls have been made by a coalition of 22 human rights groups for the sport to carry out an independent inquiry into allegations of abuses associated with the Bahrain Grand Prix.&nbsp;

A letter sent to F1 chiefs cites, for example, claims that an 11-year-old boy was arrested for joining protests against last season's race in the Gulf kingdom.

The Guardian newspaper said Hamilton as well as F1's new chief executive, Stefano Domenicali had both received copies of the letter.

Hamilton on Thursday referred to receiving letters from human rights campaigners and alleged victims of torture in Bahrain – asking him to speak out on their behalf.&nbsp;

He has raised questions about the inclusion of a Saudi Arabian Grand Prix on this year's record 23-race calendar.

"It's the first time I received letters like that, so I've taken the last few months to try and educate myself -- because coming here all these years I wasn't aware of all of the details of human rights issues," said Hamilton at a pre-season news conference.

He added he had spoken to human rights organisations, including Amnesty International, and taken steps in private to raise the issues.&nbsp;

"I don't want to say too much that may jeopardise any progress," he added.&nbsp;

"But I am definitely committed to helping in any way I can."

He said human rights should not be treated as a political issue.&nbsp;

"I don't think that we should be going to these countries and just ignoring what is happening -- and arriving, having a great time, and then leave."

<h2>- 'Zero tolerance' -</h2>

However, the Bahrain government later Thursday hit back, claiming they have a "zero-tolerance policy towards mistreatment of any kind".

"A range of institutional and legal reforms have been implemented in close collaboration with international governments and independent experts," said a government spokesperson.

"(These include) the establishment of a wholly independent Ombudsman – the first of its kind in the region – which will fully and independently investigate any allegation of mistreatment."

They added: "Furthermore, the National Institute for Human Rights – created with the assistance of the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights – has independent oversight of promoting and protecting human rights within the kingdom."

Meanwhile, Hamilton said he plans to continue taking a knee this year, hoping it will provoke an uncomfortable conversation about equality and send a signal that he is listening to and representing the black community.

"I can't ignore the fact that last year weighed heavily on me," he said.&nbsp;

"As I get older, I am understanding more. I think we all went through an educational phase last year and we're all learning more."

"I plan to continue to take the knee because I think what's really important is when young children are watching what we're doing here in this sport and when they see us take the knee, they will sit and ask their parents or their teachers 'why are they doing that? What are they taking the knee for?'."

"It sparks an uncomfortable conversation. It's a fight that will continue for a long time."

Lewis Hamilton said on Thursday he has been "educating" himself and has "taken steps in private to raise issues" over allegations of human rights abuses in countries where the Formula One circus operates, including this weekend's season-opener in Bahrain.

Lewis Hamilton said on Thursday he has been "educating" himself and has "taken steps in private to raise issues" over allegations of human rights abuses in countries where the Formula One circus operates, including this weekend's season-opener in Bahrain. The 36-year-old seven-time world champion led anti-racism protests on the grid last season, regularly taking a knee before the start of each race. However, as the new Formula One season kicks off, calls have been made by a coalition of 22 human rights groups for the sport to carry out an independent inquiry into allegations of abuses associated with the Bahrain Grand Prix. A letter sent to F1 chiefs cites, for example, claims that an 11-year-old boy was arrested for joining protests against last season's race in the Gulf kingdom. The Guardian newspaper said Hamilton as well as F1's new chief executive, Stefano Domenicali had both received copies of the letter. Hamilton on Thursday referred to receiving letters from human rights campaigners and alleged victims of torture in Bahrain – asking him to speak out on their behalf. He has raised questions about the inclusion of a Saudi Arabian Grand Prix on this year's record 23-race calendar. "It's the first time I received letters like that, so I've taken the last few months to try and educate myself -- because coming here all these years I wasn't aware of all of the details of human rights issues," said Hamilton at a pre-season news conference. He added he had spoken to human rights organisations, including Amnesty International, and taken steps in private to raise the issues. "I don't want to say too much that may jeopardise any progress," he added. "But I am definitely committed to helping in any way I can." He said human rights should not be treated as a political issue. "I don't think that we should be going to these countries and just ignoring what is happening -- and arriving, having a great time, and then leave." - 'Zero tolerance' - However, the Bahrain government later Thursday hit back, claiming they have a "zero-tolerance policy towards mistreatment of any kind". "A range of institutional and legal reforms have been implemented in close collaboration with international governments and independent experts," said a government spokesperson. "(These include) the establishment of a wholly independent Ombudsman – the first of its kind in the region – which will fully and independently investigate any allegation of mistreatment." They added: "Furthermore, the National Institute for Human Rights – created with the assistance of the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights – has independent oversight of promoting and protecting human rights within the kingdom." Meanwhile, Hamilton said he plans to continue taking a knee this year, hoping it will provoke an uncomfortable conversation about equality and send a signal that he is listening to and representing the black community. "I can't ignore the fact that last year weighed heavily on me," he said. "As I get older, I am understanding more. I think we all went through an educational phase last year and we're all learning more." "I plan to continue to take the knee because I think what's really important is when young children are watching what we're doing here in this sport and when they see us take the knee, they will sit and ask their parents or their teachers 'why are they doing that? What are they taking the knee for?'." "It sparks an uncomfortable conversation. It's a fight that will continue for a long time."

Hamilton 'educates' himself as Bahrain GP under fire over alleged rights abuses

Germany's national team lined up in T-shirts which spelled the message 'Human Rights' before their World Cup qualifier against Iceland on Thursday, less than two years before the finals are controversially staged in Qatar.

"We have the World Cup coming up and there will be discussions about it.... we wanted to show we are not ignoring that," Leon Goretzka, who scored the opening goal in a 3-0 win, told RTL.

"We wrote the letters ourselves. We have a large reach - and we can use it to set an example for the values we want to stand for. That was clear."

Joachim Loew's German team echoed a similar demonstration from Norway, who on Wednesday donned T-shirts with the message 'Human rights, on and off the pitch' in support of migrant workers building World Cup venues in Qatar for the 2022 finals.

The gesture, before Norway's World Cup qualifier against Gibraltar, came after several Norwegian clubs spoke out in favour of a boycott of the 2022 finals.

UK daily newspaper The Guardian recently claimed that more than 6,500 workers have died on stadium construction sites since the World Cup was awarded to Qatar in 2010.

In Germany, a poll by magazine Spiegel says two thirds of those asked were in favour of&nbsp;boycotting Qatar 2022.

A leading German supporters group ProFans has called on the German FA to withdraw the national team from the 2022 World Cup finals.

The German Football Association (DFB) has so far only said it will continue voicing concerns.

Germany's national team lined up in T-shirts which spelled the message 'Human Rights' before their World Cup qualifier against Iceland on Thursday, less than two years before the finals are controversially staged in Qatar.

Germany's national team lined up in T-shirts which spelled the message 'Human Rights' before their World Cup qualifier against Iceland on Thursday, less than two years before the finals are controversially staged in Qatar. "We have the World Cup coming up and there will be discussions about it.... we wanted to show we are not ignoring that," Leon Goretzka, who scored the opening goal in a 3-0 win, told RTL. "We wrote the letters ourselves. We have a large reach - and we can use it to set an example for the values we want to stand for. That was clear." Joachim Loew's German team echoed a similar demonstration from Norway, who on Wednesday donned T-shirts with the message 'Human rights, on and off the pitch' in support of migrant workers building World Cup venues in Qatar for the 2022 finals. The gesture, before Norway's World Cup qualifier against Gibraltar, came after several Norwegian clubs spoke out in favour of a boycott of the 2022 finals. UK daily newspaper The Guardian recently claimed that more than 6,500 workers have died on stadium construction sites since the World Cup was awarded to Qatar in 2010. In Germany, a poll by magazine Spiegel says two thirds of those asked were in favour of boycotting Qatar 2022. A leading German supporters group ProFans has called on the German FA to withdraw the national team from the 2022 World Cup finals. The German Football Association (DFB) has so far only said it will continue voicing concerns.

Germany players in 'Human Rights' message ahead of World Cup qualifier

A patient, unbeaten maiden Test hundred by Nkrumah Bonner anchored a day of West Indies batting resistance against Sri Lanka as the home side ground through the fifth and final day of the first Test to ensure a draw on Thursday.

In just his third Test, the 32-year-old Bonner further enhanced an already burgeoning reputation as a middle-order batsman with considerably more substance than style.

He compiled a dogged 113 not out in just over seven hours during which he faced 274 balls, stroking 13 fours and one six.&nbsp;

It ensured his team comfortably saved the match at 236 for four, having been set the unlikely target of 375.

After missing out on hundreds in each of his first two Test matches in Bangladesh last month, the Jamaican right-hander was not to be denied third time round on a day when the home side needed his brand of resolute solidity once it was determined that getting 341 more runs on the final day with nine wickets in hand was not a realistic prospect.

"I did some work in the nets with the batting coach (Monty Desai) after the first innings and it paid off," said Bonner.

"Sri Lanka's bowlers are very disciplined and it was important for me to also be disciplined and keep the ball in the ‘V’ for as much as possible."

He featured in a 105-run third-wicket partnership with Kyle Mayers which occupied almost three hours and effectively killed off Sri Lankan hopes of completing an excellent fightback from a poor first day with victory.

It ensures both teams will have everything to play for when the second and final Test starts at the same Sir Vivian Richards Stadium venue on Monday.

Sri Lanka will be concerned though about the fitness of first-choice wicketkeeper Niroshan Dickwella who appeared to have either sustained or aggravated a finger injury on more than one occasion during the course of the day, each time requiring prolonged treatment on the field before he continued.

Mayers, who marked his Test debut on that Bangladesh campaign with a sensational, match-winning unbeaten 210 in the first match in Chattogram, curbed his naturally aggressive style admirably in reaching 52 before falling to the left-arm orthodox spin of Lasith Embuldeniya at the start of the final session.

Embuldeniya had claimed Sri Lanka's lone success of the morning's play when he removed Kraigg Brathwaite to keep the tourists' hopes alive at that stage of pressing for the win later in the day.

Having batted with exaggerated care in getting to 23 off 124 balls, the West Indies captain charged down the pitch to be bowled 20 minutes before lunch, terminating a partnership of 66 for the second wicket.

Sri Lankan hopes again flickered briefly in the final session as Mayers' demise was followed by the dismissal of Jermaine Blackwood, bowled by the impressive Vishwa Fernando operating with the second new ball to give the fast bowler his second wicket of the innings.

At 204 for four, and with more than an hour left to play, the visitors kept pressing for more success but Bonner and former captain Jason Holder ensured there were no more alarms for a West Indian team grateful to come away from the match with a draw.

"I am really pleased with the way we fought back in the second innings," said Sri Lanka captain Dimuth Karunaratne in reflecting on the entire match.&nbsp;

"Today, maybe we tried too hard sometimes but the pitch got better and better to bat on and you have to give credit to Bonner and the rest of the West Indies batsmen.&nbsp;

"At least we know now what to expect from the pitch as we go into the second Test."

A patient, unbeaten maiden Test hundred by Nkrumah Bonner anchored a day of West Indies batting resistance against Sri Lanka as the home side ground through the fifth and final day of the first Test to ensure a draw on Thursday.

A patient, unbeaten maiden Test hundred by Nkrumah Bonner anchored a day of West Indies batting resistance against Sri Lanka as the home side ground through the fifth and final day of the first Test to ensure a draw on Thursday. In just his third Test, the 32-year-old Bonner further enhanced an already burgeoning reputation as a middle-order batsman with considerably more substance than style. He compiled a dogged 113 not out in just over seven hours during which he faced 274 balls, stroking 13 fours and one six. It ensured his team comfortably saved the match at 236 for four, having been set the unlikely target of 375. After missing out on hundreds in each of his first two Test matches in Bangladesh last month, the Jamaican right-hander was not to be denied third time round on a day when the home side needed his brand of resolute solidity once it was determined that getting 341 more runs on the final day with nine wickets in hand was not a realistic prospect. "I did some work in the nets with the batting coach (Monty Desai) after the first innings and it paid off," said Bonner. "Sri Lanka's bowlers are very disciplined and it was important for me to also be disciplined and keep the ball in the ‘V’ for as much as possible." He featured in a 105-run third-wicket partnership with Kyle Mayers which occupied almost three hours and effectively killed off Sri Lankan hopes of completing an excellent fightback from a poor first day with victory. It ensures both teams will have everything to play for when the second and final Test starts at the same Sir Vivian Richards Stadium venue on Monday. Sri Lanka will be concerned though about the fitness of first-choice wicketkeeper Niroshan Dickwella who appeared to have either sustained or aggravated a finger injury on more than one occasion during the course of the day, each time requiring prolonged treatment on the field before he continued. Mayers, who marked his Test debut on that Bangladesh campaign with a sensational, match-winning unbeaten 210 in the first match in Chattogram, curbed his naturally aggressive style admirably in reaching 52 before falling to the left-arm orthodox spin of Lasith Embuldeniya at the start of the final session. Embuldeniya had claimed Sri Lanka's lone success of the morning's play when he removed Kraigg Brathwaite to keep the tourists' hopes alive at that stage of pressing for the win later in the day. Having batted with exaggerated care in getting to 23 off 124 balls, the West Indies captain charged down the pitch to be bowled 20 minutes before lunch, terminating a partnership of 66 for the second wicket. Sri Lankan hopes again flickered briefly in the final session as Mayers' demise was followed by the dismissal of Jermaine Blackwood, bowled by the impressive Vishwa Fernando operating with the second new ball to give the fast bowler his second wicket of the innings. At 204 for four, and with more than an hour left to play, the visitors kept pressing for more success but Bonner and former captain Jason Holder ensured there were no more alarms for a West Indian team grateful to come away from the match with a draw. "I am really pleased with the way we fought back in the second innings," said Sri Lanka captain Dimuth Karunaratne in reflecting on the entire match. "Today, maybe we tried too hard sometimes but the pitch got better and better to bat on and you have to give credit to Bonner and the rest of the West Indies batsmen. "At least we know now what to expect from the pitch as we go into the second Test."

Bonner's maiden Test century steers Windies to draw against Sri Lanka

The Indian football team made a fine comeback in the second half to hold fancied Oman 1-1 in its first international match in more than a year though the Gulf side dominated the friendly here on Thursday. India conceded a goal in the 42nd minute with Chinglensana Singh's clearance crossing the goal-line after hitting goalkeeper Amrinder Singh who started the match instead of Gurpreet Singh Sandhu.

Manvir Singh scored the equaliser in the 55th minute to help India pull off a rare draw against Oman in the first international outing after the COVID-19 lockdown. India head coach Igor Stimac gave debuts to as many as 10 players. He had said before the match that he would give chances to a maximum number of players for them to gain the experience of playing in big matches.

The first half was all about Oman attacking in waves with India not getting a single shot on target. Oman, who have won both the two-legged matches of the 2022 World Cup qualifying against India, played a high defensive line with more men on the attack. India were content defending their citadel with more players in their own half and just one man upfront most of the time. The Indians lost possession too easily on most occasions as Oman did not let them hold on to the ball for long.

Oman squandered a penalty in the 27th minute after Rowlin Borges committed a foul on Abdul Aziz Al Gheilani inside the box. Aziz himself took the spot-kick but shot straight to Amarinder Singh. But Oman were not to be denied a goal in the first half. Al Aghbari got the ball on the left-wing and sent a low cross on the face of the goal. Amrinder could not collect the ball cleanly and it hit Chinglensana Singh and went past the goal line.

Stimac made two changes at the start of the second session with Lalengmawia and Raynier Fernandes replacing Jeakson Singh and Rowllin Borges.

The Indians dished out a much-improved show in the second half, holding the ball a lot more than the first 45 minutes and playing a more attacking game. India equalised five minutes before the hour mark. Bipin Singh sent in a delicious cross from the right flank which was headed home by Manvir.

Oman, ranked 81st as compared to India's 104th in the FIFA charts, then pressed hard for the winning goal but Amrinder was impressive behind the bar as he made two fine saves in the 63rd and 65th minutes. India play their second international friendly against the UAE here on Monday.

The friendlies are a part of preparations for the joint qualifying round matches of the 2022 World Cup and 2023 Asian Cup to be played in June.

The Indian football team made a fine comeback in the second half to hold fancied Oman 1-1 in its first international match in more than a year though the Gulf side dominated the friendly here on Thursday.

The Indian football team made a fine comeback in the second half to hold fancied Oman 1-1 in its first international match in more than a year though the Gulf side dominated the friendly here on Thursday. India conceded a goal in the 42nd minute with Chinglensana Singh's clearance crossing the goal-line after hitting goalkeeper Amrinder Singh who started the match instead of Gurpreet Singh Sandhu. Manvir Singh scored the equaliser in the 55th minute to help India pull off a rare draw against Oman in the first international outing after the COVID-19 lockdown. India head coach Igor Stimac gave debuts to as many as 10 players. He had said before the match that he would give chances to a maximum number of players for them to gain the experience of playing in big matches. The first half was all about Oman attacking in waves with India not getting a single shot on target. Oman, who have won both the two-legged matches of the 2022 World Cup qualifying against India, played a high defensive line with more men on the attack. India were content defending their citadel with more players in their own half and just one man upfront most of the time. The Indians lost possession too easily on most occasions as Oman did not let them hold on to the ball for long. Oman squandered a penalty in the 27th minute after Rowlin Borges committed a foul on Abdul Aziz Al Gheilani inside the box. Aziz himself took the spot-kick but shot straight to Amarinder Singh. But Oman were not to be denied a goal in the first half. Al Aghbari got the ball on the left-wing and sent a low cross on the face of the goal. Amrinder could not collect the ball cleanly and it hit Chinglensana Singh and went past the goal line. Stimac made two changes at the start of the second session with Lalengmawia and Raynier Fernandes replacing Jeakson Singh and Rowllin Borges. The Indians dished out a much-improved show in the second half, holding the ball a lot more than the first 45 minutes and playing a more attacking game. India equalised five minutes before the hour mark. Bipin Singh sent in a delicious cross from the right flank which was headed home by Manvir. Oman, ranked 81st as compared to India's 104th in the FIFA charts, then pressed hard for the winning goal but Amrinder was impressive behind the bar as he made two fine saves in the 63rd and 65th minutes. India play their second international friendly against the UAE here on Monday. The friendlies are a part of preparations for the joint qualifying round matches of the 2022 World Cup and 2023 Asian Cup to be played in June.

India draw 1-1 against Oman as Blue Tigers play a record 10 debutants

The dates for the Premier League 2021-22 season have been revealed. The new season of the English top-flight will commence on August 12, 2021, with the final game-week scheduled to be played on May 22, 2022.&nbsp;

Going back to the old routine, the Premier League has kept the start date flexible with the option of a Friday night match on August 13. However, every&nbsp;match&nbsp;in the final round of fixtures will start on May 22, 2022.&nbsp;

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Following a hectic 2020-21 season due to the COVID-19 pandemic - which witnessed the start of the ongoing season pushed back until September 2020 – the confirmed dates suggest a return to the traditional August-May season schedule.&nbsp;

An earlier start for Premier League 2021-22 season was discussed but clubs were against the proposal due to the short gap between the upcoming Euro 2020 – the final of which will take place on July 11, 2021.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/netherlands-beaten-by-turkey-france-held-by-ukraine-in-world-cup-qualifiers-373032" hreflang="en">Netherlands beaten by Turkey, France held by Ukraine in World Cup qualifiers</a>

Premier League players and managers have complained about the hectic schedule and how players don't get enough time to recover in between matches. The year 2021 was supposed to be hectic due to the less pre-season preparation and gaps between matches that were postponed due to the virus.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The dates for the Premier League 2021-22 season have been revealed. The new season of the English top-flight will commence on August 12, 2021, with the final game-week scheduled to be played on May 22, 2022.

The dates for the Premier League 2021-22 season have been revealed. The new season of the English top-flight will commence on August 12, 2021, with the final game-week scheduled to be played on May 22, 2022. Going back to the old routine, the Premier League has kept the start date flexible with the option of a Friday night match on August 13. However, every match in the final round of fixtures will start on May 22, 2022. ALSO READ: Neymar joins 'Fortnite' as video game universe expands Following a hectic 2020-21 season due to the COVID-19 pandemic - which witnessed the start of the ongoing season pushed back until September 2020 – the confirmed dates suggest a return to the traditional August-May season schedule. An earlier start for Premier League 2021-22 season was discussed but clubs were against the proposal due to the short gap between the upcoming Euro 2020 – the final of which will take place on July 11, 2021. ALSO READ: Netherlands beaten by Turkey, France held by Ukraine in World Cup qualifiers Premier League players and managers have complained about the hectic schedule and how players don't get enough time to recover in between matches. The year 2021 was supposed to be hectic due to the less pre-season preparation and gaps between matches that were postponed due to the virus.

Premier League reveals start date for 2021-22 season

England captain Eoin Morgan will miss the final two ODIs of the ongoing series against India in Pune due to injury. Whereas Sam Billings will be unavailable for second ODI against India on Friday, with a decision on his availability for Sunday’s final match to be taken in due course.&nbsp;

Jos Buttler is set to captain England in Morgan’s absence and explosive batsman Liam Livingstone will make his ODI debut.&nbsp;

Morgan will miss out after sustaining a split webbing between his thumb and index finger in Tuesday’s series opener, an injury that required four stitches.&nbsp;

The captain went through a fielding drill during training at the Maharashtra Cricket Association&nbsp;Stadium on Thursday and afterwards declared himself unfit.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/animated-reactions-not-englands-way-of-operating-says-stokes-in-reference-to-kohlis-body-language-373136" hreflang="en">Animated reactions not England's way of operating, says Stokes in reference to Kohli's body language</a>

Morgan said: “I had the hand re-dressed before the start of training today but it quickly became apparent that I found myself protecting the injury and getting into the wrong positions to catch the ball.&nbsp;

“There’s nowhere to hide on the field in international cricket these days, especially in limited-over formats so it didn’t require any great thought to make myself unavailable.&nbsp;

“It was a freak injury and it’s extremely frustrating but there’s nothing I can do about it. It’s now just a case of letting the cut heal. I have every confidence in Jos and the rest of the squad coping without me.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-really-dont-know-chennai-super-kings-unclear-about-ravindra-jadejas-availability-for-ipl-2021-373146" hreflang="en">'We really don’t know': Chennai Super Kings unclear about Ravindra Jadeja's availability for IPL 2021</a>

Billings did not train on Thursday after he suffered a bruised left collar bone while fielding in Tuesday’s opening match, and the injury remained sore on Thursday.&nbsp;

Dawid Malan, with the tour party as cover, has been drafted into the squad and is available for selection.&nbsp;

Earlier, the BCCI confirmed that Shreyas Iyer has been ruled out of the ODI series against England after suffering a shoulder injury.

India lead the three-ODI series 1-0 after a thumping 66-run win against England and would be looking to seal the series on Friday.&nbsp;

England captain Eoin Morgan will miss the final two ODIs of the ongoing series against India in Pune due to injury. Whereas Sam Billings will be unavailable for second ODI against India on Friday, with a decision on his availability for Sunday’s final match to be taken in due course.

England captain Eoin Morgan will miss the final two ODIs of the ongoing series against India in Pune due to injury. Whereas Sam Billings will be unavailable for second ODI against India on Friday, with a decision on his availability for Sunday’s final match to be taken in due course. Jos Buttler is set to captain England in Morgan’s absence and explosive batsman Liam Livingstone will make his ODI debut. Morgan will miss out after sustaining a split webbing between his thumb and index finger in Tuesday’s series opener, an injury that required four stitches. The captain went through a fielding drill during training at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium on Thursday and afterwards declared himself unfit. ALSO READ: Animated reactions not England's way of operating, says Stokes in reference to Kohli's body language Morgan said: “I had the hand re-dressed before the start of training today but it quickly became apparent that I found myself protecting the injury and getting into the wrong positions to catch the ball. “There’s nowhere to hide on the field in international cricket these days, especially in limited-over formats so it didn’t require any great thought to make myself unavailable. “It was a freak injury and it’s extremely frustrating but there’s nothing I can do about it. It’s now just a case of letting the cut heal. I have every confidence in Jos and the rest of the squad coping without me.” ALSO READ: 'We really don’t know': Chennai Super Kings unclear about Ravindra Jadeja's availability for IPL 2021 Billings did not train on Thursday after he suffered a bruised left collar bone while fielding in Tuesday’s opening match, and the injury remained sore on Thursday. Dawid Malan, with the tour party as cover, has been drafted into the squad and is available for selection. Earlier, the BCCI confirmed that Shreyas Iyer has been ruled out of the ODI series against England after suffering a shoulder injury. India lead the three-ODI series 1-0 after a thumping 66-run win against England and would be looking to seal the series on Friday.

Eoin Morgan ruled out of India ODIs due to injury, Jos Buttler set to captain England

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have reached Mumbai in a bid to start their preparations for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, scheduled to start from April. CSK have their first round of matches in Mumbai and the MS Dhoni-led outfit would be raring to go in the T20 tournament. While&nbsp;all the players are expected to join the squad in the coming days, there is still unclarity regarding the fitness and availability of key all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja.&nbsp;&nbsp;

CSK ended at the second-last position in IPL 2020 standings and would be looking to perform well in the 14th&nbsp;edition of the cash-rich tournament.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Jadeja has been out of action since the third Test against India at the Sydney Cricket Ground where he suffered a dislocated thumb after being struck by a&nbsp;brutal&nbsp;Mitchell Starc bouncer. The flamboyant all-rounder had to undergo surgery and was ruled out of the remainder of the Test series against Australia and missed the entire home series against England.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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The southpaw has been undergoing rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru but there has been no update on his availability for IPL 2021. Even the CSK top brass is clueless about Jadeja's fitness with CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan saying&nbsp;the franchise doesn't know when he will join the team.&nbsp;

“We really don’t know when Jadeja is joining us. He has to get released by the National Cricket Academy (NCA),” Viswanathan said as quoted by&nbsp;InsideSport.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2021-who-will-captain-delhi-capitals-in-absence-of-shreyas-iyer-check-the-list-of-options-372866" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Who will captain Delhi Capitals in absence of Shreyas Iyer? Check the list of options</a>

Dhoni along with some of his CSK teammates had started practising in Chennai for the T20 tournament and now have moved the base to Mumbai where they will play as many as five matches.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Stephen and Pujara have reached Mumbai along with some other players. We will begin our camp there on March 27-28,” Viswanathan said.&nbsp;

IPL 2021 starts on April 9.&nbsp;

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have reached Mumbai in a bid to start their preparations for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, scheduled to start from April.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have reached Mumbai in a bid to start their preparations for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, scheduled to start from April. CSK have their first round of matches in Mumbai and the MS Dhoni-led outfit would be raring to go in the T20 tournament. While all the players are expected to join the squad in the coming days, there is still unclarity regarding the fitness and availability of key all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja. CSK ended at the second-last position in IPL 2020 standings and would be looking to perform well in the 14th edition of the cash-rich tournament. Jadeja has been out of action since the third Test against India at the Sydney Cricket Ground where he suffered a dislocated thumb after being struck by a brutal Mitchell Starc bouncer. The flamboyant all-rounder had to undergo surgery and was ruled out of the remainder of the Test series against Australia and missed the entire home series against England. ALSO READ: Animated reactions not England's way of operating, says Stokes in reference to Kohli's body language The southpaw has been undergoing rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru but there has been no update on his availability for IPL 2021. Even the CSK top brass is clueless about Jadeja's fitness with CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan saying the franchise doesn't know when he will join the team. “We really don’t know when Jadeja is joining us. He has to get released by the National Cricket Academy (NCA),” Viswanathan said as quoted by InsideSport. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Who will captain Delhi Capitals in absence of Shreyas Iyer? Check the list of options Dhoni along with some of his CSK teammates had started practising in Chennai for the T20 tournament and now have moved the base to Mumbai where they will play as many as five matches. “Stephen and Pujara have reached Mumbai along with some other players. We will begin our camp there on March 27-28,” Viswanathan said. IPL 2021 starts on April 9.

'We really don’t know': Chennai Super Kings unclear about Ravindra Jadeja's availability for IPL 2021

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