<p>Former England all-rounder and one of the icons of cricket, Ian Botham has claimed that he got infected by COVID-19 earlier this year but mistook it for a “bad case of flu”. The dreaded virus has infected over 10 million people worldwide while killing more than 500,000.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Botham said that he had COVID-19 six months ago at a time when no one even knew the details regarding the virus.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>It was very much a sort of in the dark: Ian Botham</strong></h2>

<p>"I think the thing to remember is that six months ago no-one even knew what this was, hadn't heard of it," Botham told Good Morning Britain.</p>

<p>"I've actually had it. I had it at the end of December, beginning of January, and I thought I had a bad case of flu. It's amazing how long it has been around, we don't know all the details. It was very much a sort of in the dark, let's see what happens."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/joe-root-to-miss-opening-test-against-west-indies-ben-stokes-to-lead-england-309433" hreflang="en">Joe Root to miss opening Test against West Indies, Ben Stokes to lead England</a></strong></p>

<p>The former English great urged people to show patience while hoping things will be better in the next couple of weeks with a hope that people can move around freely.</p>

<p>"I think people have been responding extremely well. I hope they show a bit more patience over the next couple of weeks or so, so we can get to a situation where everybody can move around," he said.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nitin-menon-included-in-icc-elite-panel-of-umpires-for-2020-21-third-indian-to-achieve-the-landmark-309382" hreflang="en">Nitin Menon included in ICC Elite Panel of Umpires for 2020-21, third Indian to achieve the landmark</a></strong></p>

<p>With UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson calling the cricket ball ‘a natural vector of disease’, the decision to put recreational cricket on hold was slammed by former cricketers but Botham is of the view that cricket will be back very shortly as there is no real physical contact in the sport.</p>

<p>"I think cricket will be back very shortly. Cricket can be played. There's no real physical contact there, you can keep your social distancing quite easily," said the 64-year-old.</p>

<p>England’s three-match Test series against West Indies is set to start from July 8 with the Joe Root-led side scheduled to host Pakistan after the rubber against Windies.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Former England all-rounder and one of the icons of cricket, Ian Botham has claimed that he got infected by COVID-19 earlier this year but mistook it for a “bad case of flu”.

Former England all-rounder and one of the icons of cricket, Ian Botham has claimed that he got infected by COVID-19 earlier this year but mistook it for a “bad case of flu”. The dreaded virus has infected over 10 million people worldwide while killing more than 500,000. Botham said that he had COVID-19 six months ago at a time when no one even knew the details regarding the virus. It was very much a sort of in the dark: Ian Botham "I think the thing to remember is that six months ago no-one even knew what this was, hadn't heard of it," Botham told Good Morning Britain. "I've actually had it. I had it at the end of December, beginning of January, and I thought I had a bad case of flu. It's amazing how long it has been around, we don't know all the details. It was very much a sort of in the dark, let's see what happens." ALSO READ: Joe Root to miss opening Test against West Indies, Ben Stokes to lead England The former English great urged people to show patience while hoping things will be better in the next couple of weeks with a hope that people can move around freely. "I think people have been responding extremely well. I hope they show a bit more patience over the next couple of weeks or so, so we can get to a situation where everybody can move around," he said. ALSO READ: Nitin Menon included in ICC Elite Panel of Umpires for 2020-21, third Indian to achieve the landmark With UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson calling the cricket ball ‘a natural vector of disease’, the decision to put recreational cricket on hold was slammed by former cricketers but Botham is of the view that cricket will be back very shortly as there is no real physical contact in the sport. "I think cricket will be back very shortly. Cricket can be played. There's no real physical contact there, you can keep your social distancing quite easily," said the 64-year-old. England’s three-match Test series against West Indies is set to start from July 8 with the Joe Root-led side scheduled to host Pakistan after the rubber against Windies.

England great Ian Botham claims he had COVID-19 but mistook virus for 'bad flu'

<p>England’s premier ball manufacturer has some advice for bowlers worried about being unable to generate swing due to a ban on the use of saliva to shine the ball: “Carry a cotton towel.”</p>

<p>Polishing one side with sweat and saliva has been used by fast bowlers to alter the aerodynamics of the ball but the International Cricket Council banned the use of saliva this month to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus.</p>

<p>Bowlers are still free to use sweat but some pacers are worried about not generating enough swing.</p>

<p>Dilip Jajodia, managing director of British Cricket Balls Ltd, which produces the Dukes balls used in test matches in England, says they need not worry.</p>

<p>“The ball has to be right in the first place. Whether you apply saliva or perspiration or whatever, these are small things that help,” Jajodia told Reuters by telephone.</p>

<p>“We have a proper ball with a hand-stitched seam. It’s designed to swing as long as you have the skill.</p>

<p>“And now that ICC has confirmed that you can use perspiration, I don’t see any problem.”</p>

<p>When a player vigorously rubs the Dukes ball against his clothes, it releases the wax in it to permeate through leather and shine the ball, said Jajodia.</p>

<p>His advice for English and West Indian bowlers in their upcoming series is to carry a cotton towel like Barbadian great Malcolm Marshall.</p>

<p>“The great Malcolm Marshall was always seen with a little cotton towel hanging from his waist.</p>

<p>“And you see (England captain) Joe Root in a polyester shirt — polishing and polishing the ball. He’s wasting his time, it does not work.</p>

<p>“You should polish it on a natural material like cotton. Just perspiration and cotton.</p>

<p>“Carry a cotton towel, and you’d be fine.”</p>


England’s premier ball manufacturer has some advice for bowlers worried about being unable to generate swing due to a ban on the use of saliva to shine the ball: “Carry a cotton towel.

England’s premier ball manufacturer has some advice for bowlers worried about being unable to generate swing due to a ban on the use of saliva to shine the ball: “Carry a cotton towel.” Polishing one side with sweat and saliva has been used by fast bowlers to alter the aerodynamics of the ball but the International Cricket Council banned the use of saliva this month to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus. Bowlers are still free to use sweat but some pacers are worried about not generating enough swing. Dilip Jajodia, managing director of British Cricket Balls Ltd, which produces the Dukes balls used in test matches in England, says they need not worry. “The ball has to be right in the first place. Whether you apply saliva or perspiration or whatever, these are small things that help,” Jajodia told Reuters by telephone. “We have a proper ball with a hand-stitched seam. It’s designed to swing as long as you have the skill. “And now that ICC has confirmed that you can use perspiration, I don’t see any problem.” When a player vigorously rubs the Dukes ball against his clothes, it releases the wax in it to permeate through leather and shine the ball, said Jajodia. His advice for English and West Indian bowlers in their upcoming series is to carry a cotton towel like Barbadian great Malcolm Marshall. “The great Malcolm Marshall was always seen with a little cotton towel hanging from his waist. “And you see (England captain) Joe Root in a polyester shirt — polishing and polishing the ball. He’s wasting his time, it does not work. “You should polish it on a natural material like cotton. Just perspiration and cotton. “Carry a cotton towel, and you’d be fine.”

Don't sweat the saliva ban, ball-maker offers towel solution

<p>Former Pakistan skipper Shahid Afridi on Saturday confirmed that he has been tested positive for COVID-19. Afridi, while taking to social media platform Twitter, said that he has been feeling unwell since Thursday with his body aching badly while adding that he was tested positive for the dreaded coronavirus.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I’ve been feeling unwell since Thursday; my body had been aching badly. I’ve been tested and unfortunately I’m covid positive. Need prayers for a speedy recovery, InshaAllah #COVID19 #pandemic #hopenotout #staysafe #stayhome,” Afridi tweeted.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-to-allow-10000-strong-sporting-crowds-from-july-pm-scott-morrison-305447" hreflang="en">Australia to allow 10,000-strong sporting crowds from July: PM Scott Morrison</a></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I’ve been feeling unwell since Thursday; my body had been aching badly. I’ve been tested and unfortunately I’m covid positive. Need prayers for a speedy recovery, InshaAllah <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/pandemic?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#pandemic</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/hopenotout?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#hopenotout</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/staysafe?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#staysafe</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/stayhome?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#stayhome</a></p>
— Shahid Afridi (@SAfridiOfficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/SAfridiOfficial/status/1271720209657630720?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Afridi has been involved in charitable causes through his foundation Shahid Afridi Foundation and has helped a lot of needy people during the COVID-19 pandemic. While he has visited lots of places, in Pakistan,&nbsp;to help the needy and continue his social work, Afridi recently hit the headlines due to his controversial remarks on Kashmir and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. His social works had even received the backing of Yuvraj Singh and Harbhajan Singh but their relations turned sour after Afridi's remarks on PM Modi and Kashmir.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/have-i-turned-a-blind-eye-to-things-englands-james-anderson-opines-on-racism-305414" hreflang="en">'Have I turned a blind eye to things?' - England's James Anderson opines on racism</a></strong></p>

<p>The swashbuckling former all-rounder is the third Pakistan cricketer to test positive for COVID-19 after Taufeeq Umar and Zafaq Sarfaraz. The former Pakistan opener - Umar - tested positive in June but his tests came out negative after 14 days isolation period in the first week of June.</p>

<p>The veteran of 398 ODIs and 27 Tests - Afridi - recently hailed the PCB's move to appoint Younis Khan as the team's batting coach for the upcoming England tour. “This is a show of cricketers and it is better if it’s run by them. All are sincere and have great individual performances when it comes to cricket or coaching. I am hopeful that they will do their jobs in the best possible manner,” he had said on his YouTube channel.</p>


Former Pakistan skipper Shahid Afridi on Saturday confirmed that he has been tested positive for COVID-19. Afridi, while taking to social media platform Twitter, said that he has been feeling unwell since Thursday with his body aching badly while adding that he was tested positive for the dreaded coronavirus.

Former Pakistan skipper Shahid Afridi on Saturday confirmed that he has been tested positive for COVID-19. Afridi, while taking to social media platform Twitter, said that he has been feeling unwell since Thursday with his body aching badly while adding that he was tested positive for the dreaded coronavirus. “I’ve been feeling unwell since Thursday; my body had been aching badly. I’ve been tested and unfortunately I’m covid positive. Need prayers for a speedy recovery, InshaAllah #COVID19 #pandemic #hopenotout #staysafe #stayhome,” Afridi tweeted. ALSO READ: Australia to allow 10,000-strong sporting crowds from July: PM Scott Morrison I’ve been feeling unwell since Thursday; my body had been aching badly. I’ve been tested and unfortunately I’m covid positive. Need prayers for a speedy recovery, InshaAllah #COVID19 #pandemic #hopenotout #staysafe #stayhome — Shahid Afridi (@SAfridiOfficial) June 13, 2020 × Afridi has been involved in charitable causes through his foundation Shahid Afridi Foundation and has helped a lot of needy people during the COVID-19 pandemic. While he has visited lots of places, in Pakistan, to help the needy and continue his social work, Afridi recently hit the headlines due to his controversial remarks on Kashmir and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. His social works had even received the backing of Yuvraj Singh and Harbhajan Singh but their relations turned sour after Afridi's remarks on PM Modi and Kashmir. ALSO READ: 'Have I turned a blind eye to things?' - England's James Anderson opines on racism The swashbuckling former all-rounder is the third Pakistan cricketer to test positive for COVID-19 after Taufeeq Umar and Zafaq Sarfaraz. The former Pakistan opener - Umar - tested positive in June but his tests came out negative after 14 days isolation period in the first week of June. The veteran of 398 ODIs and 27 Tests - Afridi - recently hailed the PCB's move to appoint Younis Khan as the team's batting coach for the upcoming England tour. “This is a show of cricketers and it is better if it’s run by them. All are sincere and have great individual performances when it comes to cricket or coaching. I am hopeful that they will do their jobs in the best possible manner,” he had said on his YouTube channel.

Pakistan's Shahid Afridi tests positive for COVID-19

<p>International cricket is on the verge of returning back to life with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) planning to host West Indies and Pakistan for a three-match Test series in July and August respectively. While ICC released guidelines in a bid to resume cricket, ECB is looking to create ‘bio-secure bubble’ for players to ensure safety and well-being amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Former Indian captain Rahul Dravid has questioned the planning by ECB as the batting legend feels it would be impossible to follow the proposed 'bio-secure bubble plans' due to the hectic calendar in the world of cricket.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It is a bit unrealistic to have things at the level the ECB is talking about. Obviously, the ECB is very keen to conduct these series because they have had no other cricket and it is right in the middle of the season. Even if they are potentially able to create a bubble and manage it in that way, I think it will be impossible for everyone to do it with the kind of calendar that we have, with the travelling that you do on tours and the number of people involved," Dravid said during webinar conducted in support of NGO, YUVA.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sri-lanka-cricket-planning-to-suspend-drug-charged-shehan-madushankas-contract-301081" hreflang="en">Sri Lanka Cricket planning to suspend drug-charged Shehan Madushanka's contract</a></strong></p>

<p>Dravid further questioned the fate of a Test series or a tournament if a player tests positive in between a match in the longest format of the game. Dravid said the current rules will see the Public Health Department intervening and putting everyone in quarantine as the stalwart said everyone will need to work out a proper plan so the whole Test match or a tournament don’t get cancelled.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"All of us are hoping that things will evolve with time and get better once we have better medication. In case of the bio-bubble, you do all the testing, the quarantine and then on day two of the Test match, what if one player tests positive? What happens then? The rules, as they stand now, will see the Public Health Department coming in and putting everyone in quarantine,” Dravid asserted.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-fine-with-saliva-ban-matches-behind-closed-doors-as-it-is-for-everyones-safety-navdeep-saini-300955" hreflang="en">Exclusive | Fine with saliva ban, matches behind closed doors as it is for everyone's safety: Navdeep Saini</a></strong></p>

<p>"So that ends the Test match or the series and that ends all the expenses that were made to get everyone there and create that environment. We're going to have to work with the Health Department and Government authorities to find out a way in which even if a player tests positive, the whole tournament isn't cancelled," Dravid who currently heads the National Cricket Academy pointed out.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


International cricket is on the verge of returning back to life with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) planning to host West Indies and Pakistan for a three-match Test series in July and August respectively.

International cricket is on the verge of returning back to life with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) planning to host West Indies and Pakistan for a three-match Test series in July and August respectively. While ICC released guidelines in a bid to resume cricket, ECB is looking to create ‘bio-secure bubble’ for players to ensure safety and well-being amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Former Indian captain Rahul Dravid has questioned the planning by ECB as the batting legend feels it would be impossible to follow the proposed 'bio-secure bubble plans' due to the hectic calendar in the world of cricket. "It is a bit unrealistic to have things at the level the ECB is talking about. Obviously, the ECB is very keen to conduct these series because they have had no other cricket and it is right in the middle of the season. Even if they are potentially able to create a bubble and manage it in that way, I think it will be impossible for everyone to do it with the kind of calendar that we have, with the travelling that you do on tours and the number of people involved," Dravid said during webinar conducted in support of NGO, YUVA. ALSO READ: Sri Lanka Cricket planning to suspend drug-charged Shehan Madushanka's contract Dravid further questioned the fate of a Test series or a tournament if a player tests positive in between a match in the longest format of the game. Dravid said the current rules will see the Public Health Department intervening and putting everyone in quarantine as the stalwart said everyone will need to work out a proper plan so the whole Test match or a tournament don’t get cancelled. "All of us are hoping that things will evolve with time and get better once we have better medication. In case of the bio-bubble, you do all the testing, the quarantine and then on day two of the Test match, what if one player tests positive? What happens then? The rules, as they stand now, will see the Public Health Department coming in and putting everyone in quarantine,” Dravid asserted. ALSO READ: Exclusive | Fine with saliva ban, matches behind closed doors as it is for everyone's safety: Navdeep Saini "So that ends the Test match or the series and that ends all the expenses that were made to get everyone there and create that environment. We're going to have to work with the Health Department and Government authorities to find out a way in which even if a player tests positive, the whole tournament isn't cancelled," Dravid who currently heads the National Cricket Academy pointed out.

"What if a player tests positive in between a series or match?" - Rahul Dravid asks for better resumption strategy

<p>The coronavirus may have struck shortly before the English cricket season was due to start but it threatens to have major implications for the game worldwide.&nbsp;</p>

<p>English officials still believe they can fit a full international programme of three-Test series against both the West Indies and Pakistan, as well as one-day internationals with Australia and Ireland, into a season that won't start until July 1 at the earliest.</p>

<p>But there is now an expectation matches will have to be played behind closed doors, in the short-term at least, as a way of stopping the spread of COVID-19.</p>

<p>That would, however, still allow the England and Wales Cricket Board to honour lucrative broadcast contracts and avoid the nightmare scenario of a completely wiped out season that could cost the organisation £380 million ($463 million).</p>

<p>Below AFP Sport looks at the key issues confronting cricket amid the pandemic.</p>

<h2>Will teams go on tour?</h2>

<p>-- West Indies and Pakistan, two of crickets less well-off major teams, have both made encouraging noises about touring England, subject to health concerns and appear to ready to factor a 14-day quarantine on arrival in Britain, because of UK government regulations, into their planning.</p>

<p>Matches are set to be played at 'bio-secure' venues such as Hampshire's Ageas Bowl or Old Trafford that have onsite hotels.</p>

<p>"We are trying to get to England early July so that we can get the quarantine done," said Pakistan Cricket Board chief executive Wasim Khan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Australia were meant to play three Twenty20s and three one-day internationals in July but may delay their visit to later in the season after seeing how the West Indies and Pakistan series pan out.</p>

<p>"Obviously we won't jeopardise the safety of the players," Cricket Australia chief executive Kevin Roberts told the Sydney Daily Telegraph.</p>

<p>"But the best test of that is the West Indian and Pakistan tours of England before we're due to tour. We hope they go off without a hitch."</p>

<h2>What will cricket look like?</h2>

<p>-- Even if a rescheduled series between England and the West Indies starts in July, the game itself will look very different.</p>

<p>Not only will there be no spectators but wicket celebrations such as 'high fives' are set to be banned according to International Cricket Council guidelines issued last week.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Umpires have also been instructed to wear gloves to minimise the risk of infection, with bowlers no longer handing their cap and sweater to officials for the same reason.</p>

<p>Another 'interim' measure, which still requires approval at a June vote, would see bowlers banned from using saliva to shine the ball to aid swing, although they will still be allowed to apply their own sweat.</p>

<p>Travel restrictions could see two umpires from a home nation stand in a Test for the first time since 1994 when the ICC started moving towards neutral officials to counter accusations of bias.</p>

<p>The ICC's cricket committee also said last week each team should be awarded an additional DRS review per innings.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Chris Broad, the only Englishman on the ICC's elite panel of referees, may have to officiate in matches involving his son Stuart, the England fast bowler.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>What will happen to the Twenty20 World Cup and IPL?</h2>

<p>-- An ICC board meeting on Thursday May 28, could see the men's Twenty20 World Cup, due to held in Australia from October 18, postponed.</p>

<p>Problems over flying in 16 teams to Australia may be reason enough to delay the event by a year.</p>

<p>That would allow the already postponed franchise Indian Premier League, the world's wealthiest T20 competition, to go ahead in its place.</p>

<p>Manoj Badale, a part-owner of the Rajasthan Royals, told the London Daily Telegraph last month: "No IPL (in 2020) would be a big $600 million loss for the global cricket economy."</p>

<p>South African director of cricket Graeme Smith has called for India's Sourav Ganguly, a fellow former Test captain, to become the next ICC chairman.</p>

<p>The Proteas, hard hit by the low value of South Africa's rand, hope to host a three-match T20 series against India in August.</p>

<h2>What does this mean for women's cricket?</h2>

<p>-- The women's game was riding the crest of a wave after a crowd of over 86,000 in Melbourne saw hosts Australia beat India in the final of the T20 World Cup in March, shortly before global sport went into lockdown.</p>

<p>But Clare Connor, the ECB's managing director of women's cricket, has accepted her side of the game may have to be sacrificed completely in order for more lucrative men's matches to go ahead this season.</p>

<p>But there are hopes a series with South Africa could still take place in September.</p>


The coronavirus may have struck shortly before the English cricket season was due to start but it threatens to have major implications for the game worldwide. English officials still believe they can fit a full international programme of three-Test series against both the West Indies and Pakistan, as well as one-day internationals with Australia and Ireland, into a season that won't start until July 1 at the earliest.

The coronavirus may have struck shortly before the English cricket season was due to start but it threatens to have major implications for the game worldwide. English officials still believe they can fit a full international programme of three-Test series against both the West Indies and Pakistan, as well as one-day internationals with Australia and Ireland, into a season that won't start until July 1 at the earliest. But there is now an expectation matches will have to be played behind closed doors, in the short-term at least, as a way of stopping the spread of COVID-19. That would, however, still allow the England and Wales Cricket Board to honour lucrative broadcast contracts and avoid the nightmare scenario of a completely wiped out season that could cost the organisation £380 million ($463 million). Below AFP Sport looks at the key issues confronting cricket amid the pandemic. Will teams go on tour? -- West Indies and Pakistan, two of crickets less well-off major teams, have both made encouraging noises about touring England, subject to health concerns and appear to ready to factor a 14-day quarantine on arrival in Britain, because of UK government regulations, into their planning. Matches are set to be played at 'bio-secure' venues such as Hampshire's Ageas Bowl or Old Trafford that have onsite hotels. "We are trying to get to England early July so that we can get the quarantine done," said Pakistan Cricket Board chief executive Wasim Khan. Australia were meant to play three Twenty20s and three one-day internationals in July but may delay their visit to later in the season after seeing how the West Indies and Pakistan series pan out. "Obviously we won't jeopardise the safety of the players," Cricket Australia chief executive Kevin Roberts told the Sydney Daily Telegraph. "But the best test of that is the West Indian and Pakistan tours of England before we're due to tour. We hope they go off without a hitch." What will cricket look like? -- Even if a rescheduled series between England and the West Indies starts in July, the game itself will look very different. Not only will there be no spectators but wicket celebrations such as 'high fives' are set to be banned according to International Cricket Council guidelines issued last week. Umpires have also been instructed to wear gloves to minimise the risk of infection, with bowlers no longer handing their cap and sweater to officials for the same reason. Another 'interim' measure, which still requires approval at a June vote, would see bowlers banned from using saliva to shine the ball to aid swing, although they will still be allowed to apply their own sweat. Travel restrictions could see two umpires from a home nation stand in a Test for the first time since 1994 when the ICC started moving towards neutral officials to counter accusations of bias. The ICC's cricket committee also said last week each team should be awarded an additional DRS review per innings. Meanwhile, Chris Broad, the only Englishman on the ICC's elite panel of referees, may have to officiate in matches involving his son Stuart, the England fast bowler. What will happen to the Twenty20 World Cup and IPL? -- An ICC board meeting on Thursday May 28, could see the men's Twenty20 World Cup, due to held in Australia from October 18, postponed. Problems over flying in 16 teams to Australia may be reason enough to delay the event by a year. That would allow the already postponed franchise Indian Premier League, the world's wealthiest T20 competition, to go ahead in its place. Manoj Badale, a part-owner of the Rajasthan Royals, told the London Daily Telegraph last month: "No IPL (in 2020) would be a big $600 million loss for the global cricket economy." South African director of cricket Graeme Smith has called for India's Sourav Ganguly, a fellow former Test captain, to become the next ICC chairman. The Proteas, hard hit by the low value of South Africa's rand, hope to host a three-match T20 series against India in August. What does this mean for women's cricket? -- The women's game was riding the crest of a wave after a crowd of over 86,000 in Melbourne saw hosts Australia beat India in the final of the T20 World Cup in March, shortly before global sport went into lockdown. But Clare Connor, the ECB's managing director of women's cricket, has accepted her side of the game may have to be sacrificed completely in order for more lucrative men's matches to go ahead this season. But there are hopes a series with South Africa could still take place in September.

What now for cricket in 2020? Four key questions

<p>Young Indian speedster Navdeep Saini has made a sparkling impact with his raw pace and ability to extract sharp bounce off the pitch. His ability to bowl quick besides deadly yorkers have made him one of the hottest pace bowling prospects in world cricket.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In an exclusive interview with WION’s Subhayan Chakraborty, Navdeep Saini spoke on various topics ranging from the much-debated saliva ban, matches behind closed doors, the importance of Indian Premier League, Virat Kohli’s impact on his career and much more.</p>

<p><strong>Subhayan Chakraborty:</strong> Navdeep, the big talking point is the ban on the usage of saliva. Will it really put an impact on bowlers?</p>

<p><strong>Navdeep Saini</strong>: I don’t think it will put a real impact on bowlers. Yes, it will be a strange feeling for bowlers initially but everyone will get accustomed to the new rules and guidelines. Saliva ban is not only for a single bowler or a team, the rule is for everyone so I don’t think it will be an advantage or disadvantage for anyone. Players need to adapt as per the demand of the situation and hopefully, bowlers will come out stronger. &nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="Navdeep Saini" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="01d7c9bb-77e8-4c26-8be8-7e61f07ceae4" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1OR742.jpg" /></p>

<p><strong>SC</strong>: And what about reverse swing…</p>

<p><strong>NS: </strong>As I said, it will be tough for bowlers to get a hang of it initially. But still, we are allowed to use sweat to shine the ball. Yes, saliva has been the go-to option for bowlers to polish the ball but don’t think the ban should bother pacers much. It is for everyone’s safety and well-being.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>SC</strong>: How tough will it be to police it, especially in domestic matches? Several players have already raised their concerns…</p>

<p><strong>NS</strong>: Players have to take the onus on themselves. This rule is being implemented for everyone’s well-being. We are professionals and if it is being done for our own good then I don’t think players should look to use it for their benefit. Officials will have to be extra careful, of course. But more responsibility is on the players to not use saliva at all during matches.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>SC</strong>: Another major talking point in the world of sports is empty stadiums. Do you think it will kill the energy of the matches?&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>NS</strong>: Whenever a player or team gets the backing of the crowd, they get naturally motivated to give their best shot. Yes, not having any crowd in matches will have a bit of effect on us players but as it has been implemented for our safety, I think that is the possible option available for the authorities. Everyone’s safety is the topmost priority for the organisers. But matches behind closed doors doesn’t mean players will not give their best effort to win matches, we take the field to make our country proud and will continue to do so.</p>

<p>&nbsp;<img alt="Navdeep Saini" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="051c799a-4075-4513-ac3f-91aeeeb07824" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1OM7P0_0.jpg" /></p>

<p><strong>SC</strong>: There are reports of IPL getting a window later in the year…How important is IPL for cricketers?</p>

<p><strong>NS</strong>: Not only IPL but every domestic tournament or international series is important for a player. The speciality of IPL is that players get to showcase their talent in front of the world. The entire world watches IPL and the attention players get from it is unreal. It works as a confidence booster for players and the experience youngsters get from sharing the dressing room and field with stalwarts in unparalleled. I feel&nbsp;IPL is the best platform to level up your game.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>SC</strong>: How important a role has Virat Kohli played in your career?&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="Navdeep Saini and Virat Kohli" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5f81bf6f-3b25-4693-b2d5-2838430adfb1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1G58RX.jpg" /></p>

<p><strong>NS</strong>: Not only me but Virat Kohli is an inspiration for every budding sportsperson. The level of intensity and passion he brings to the game and his fitness can’t be compared to anyone. During my first year in Royal Challengers Bangalore, I didn’t play but it was a learning curve to just watch Virat Kohli so closely on and off-the-field. I remember my debut match, I was extremely nervous playing in front of a capacity crowd but then it was him who gave me the confidence to bowl in matches as I bowl in the nets, that’s a sign of a superb captain and that advice has stuck with me to date. He is a role model for everyone and deservedly so.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Young Indian speedster Navdeep Saini has made a sparkling impact with his raw pace and ability to extract sharp bounce off the pitch. His ability to bowl quick besides deadly yorkers have made him one of the hottest pace bowling prospects in world cricket.

Young Indian speedster Navdeep Saini has made a sparkling impact with his raw pace and ability to extract sharp bounce off the pitch. His ability to bowl quick besides deadly yorkers have made him one of the hottest pace bowling prospects in world cricket. In an exclusive interview with WION’s Subhayan Chakraborty, Navdeep Saini spoke on various topics ranging from the much-debated saliva ban, matches behind closed doors, the importance of Indian Premier League, Virat Kohli’s impact on his career and much more. Subhayan Chakraborty: Navdeep, the big talking point is the ban on the usage of saliva. Will it really put an impact on bowlers? Navdeep Saini: I don’t think it will put a real impact on bowlers. Yes, it will be a strange feeling for bowlers initially but everyone will get accustomed to the new rules and guidelines. Saliva ban is not only for a single bowler or a team, the rule is for everyone so I don’t think it will be an advantage or disadvantage for anyone. Players need to adapt as per the demand of the situation and hopefully, bowlers will come out stronger. SC: And what about reverse swing… NS: As I said, it will be tough for bowlers to get a hang of it initially. But still, we are allowed to use sweat to shine the ball. Yes, saliva has been the go-to option for bowlers to polish the ball but don’t think the ban should bother pacers much. It is for everyone’s safety and well-being. SC: How tough will it be to police it, especially in domestic matches? Several players have already raised their concerns… NS: Players have to take the onus on themselves. This rule is being implemented for everyone’s well-being. We are professionals and if it is being done for our own good then I don’t think players should look to use it for their benefit. Officials will have to be extra careful, of course. But more responsibility is on the players to not use saliva at all during matches. SC: Another major talking point in the world of sports is empty stadiums. Do you think it will kill the energy of the matches? NS: Whenever a player or team gets the backing of the crowd, they get naturally motivated to give their best shot. Yes, not having any crowd in matches will have a bit of effect on us players but as it has been implemented for our safety, I think that is the possible option available for the authorities. Everyone’s safety is the topmost priority for the organisers. But matches behind closed doors doesn’t mean players will not give their best effort to win matches, we take the field to make our country proud and will continue to do so. SC: There are reports of IPL getting a window later in the year…How important is IPL for cricketers? NS: Not only IPL but every domestic tournament or international series is important for a player. The speciality of IPL is that players get to showcase their talent in front of the world. The entire world watches IPL and the attention players get from it is unreal. It works as a confidence booster for players and the experience youngsters get from sharing the dressing room and field with stalwarts in unparalleled. I feel IPL is the best platform to level up your game. SC: How important a role has Virat Kohli played in your career? NS: Not only me but Virat Kohli is an inspiration for every budding sportsperson. The level of intensity and passion he brings to the game and his fitness can’t be compared to anyone. During my first year in Royal Challengers Bangalore, I didn’t play but it was a learning curve to just watch Virat Kohli so closely on and off-the-field. I remember my debut match, I was extremely nervous playing in front of a capacity crowd but then it was him who gave me the confidence to bowl in matches as I bowl in the nets, that’s a sign of a superb captain and that advice has stuck with me to date. He is a role model for everyone and deservedly so.

Exclusive | Fine with saliva ban, matches behind closed doors as it is for everyone's safety: Navdeep Saini

<p>Cricket Australia chief executive Kevin Roberts has said that there is 9 out 10 chance that India will visit Australia for a four-match Test series later in the year 2020 as he downplayed the uncertainty caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.</p>

<p>The Australian cricket board is under immense financial pressure and is desperate to hold the India series after cutting costs due to the pandemic. The India tour of Australia is scheduled to be played between October 2020 and January 2021.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I guess there's no such thing as certainty in today's world so I can't say 10 (out of 10), but I'm going to say nine out of 10," Roberts was quoted as saying.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hes-got-credibility-leadership-skills-graeme-smith-wants-sourav-ganguly-to-become-icc-chairman-300211" hreflang="en">'He's got credibility, leadership skills' - Graeme Smith wants Sourav Ganguly to become ICC chairman</a></strong></p>

<p>"With the variable being, who would know whether we can have crowds? I'd be really surprised if we can't get the Indian tour away.</p>

<p>"But I wouldn't, hand on heart suggest we'll have full crowds from the start. We'll just have to see how that goes," the under-pressure chief executive said.</p>

<p>Roberts further hinted at a white-ball away series against England given the latter successfully host West Indies and Pakistan in the coming months. However, he made it clear that the board won’t jeopardise the safety of the players.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/harsha-bhogle-picks-his-top-10-indian-cricket-moments-from-the-90s-as-nostalgia-kicks-in-on-twitter-300195" hreflang="en">Harsha Bhogle picks his top 10 Indian cricket moments from the 90s as nostalgia kicks in on Twitter</a></strong></p>

<p>"I think there's some chance we could send a team over," Roberts said.</p>

<p>"Obviously we won't jeopardise the safety of the players, but the best test of that is that the West Indian and Pakistan tours of England before we're due to tour. We hope they go off without a hitch," Roberts said.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the probability of Australia hosting the T20 World Cup in October-November looks slim given the international travel restrictions in majority of countries and the showpiece event could be shifted to 2021 with India hosting the next edition in 2022.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Cricket Australia chief executive Kevin Roberts has said that there is 9 out 10 chance that India will visit Australia for a four-match Test series later in the year 2020 as he downplayed the uncertainty caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Cricket Australia chief executive Kevin Roberts has said that there is 9 out 10 chance that India will visit Australia for a four-match Test series later in the year 2020 as he downplayed the uncertainty caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Australian cricket board is under immense financial pressure and is desperate to hold the India series after cutting costs due to the pandemic. The India tour of Australia is scheduled to be played between October 2020 and January 2021. "I guess there's no such thing as certainty in today's world so I can't say 10 (out of 10), but I'm going to say nine out of 10," Roberts was quoted as saying. ALSO READ: 'He's got credibility, leadership skills' - Graeme Smith wants Sourav Ganguly to become ICC chairman "With the variable being, who would know whether we can have crowds? I'd be really surprised if we can't get the Indian tour away. "But I wouldn't, hand on heart suggest we'll have full crowds from the start. We'll just have to see how that goes," the under-pressure chief executive said. Roberts further hinted at a white-ball away series against England given the latter successfully host West Indies and Pakistan in the coming months. However, he made it clear that the board won’t jeopardise the safety of the players. ALSO READ: Harsha Bhogle picks his top 10 Indian cricket moments from the 90s as nostalgia kicks in on Twitter "I think there's some chance we could send a team over," Roberts said. "Obviously we won't jeopardise the safety of the players, but the best test of that is that the West Indian and Pakistan tours of England before we're due to tour. We hope they go off without a hitch," Roberts said. Meanwhile, the probability of Australia hosting the T20 World Cup in October-November looks slim given the international travel restrictions in majority of countries and the showpiece event could be shifted to 2021 with India hosting the next edition in 2022.

On a scale of 10, chance of India touring Down Under is 9: Cricket Australia CEO Kevin Roberts

<p>Cricket is gearing up to come back to life after a prolonged break due to COVID-19 pandemic. But this time, with new rules and regulations for the safety and well-being of the players, support staff and everyone involved in a series or tournament.&nbsp;</p>

<p>ICC’s Cricket Committee has recommended a ban on the usage of saliva for polishing or nurturing the cricket ball and the proposal will now be passed to the ICC Chief Executives' Committee in early June for approval and it is highly expected that the recommendation will get rubber-stamped for the resumption of cricket post-pandemic. The catch for bowlers? Only sweat can be used to polish the ball as the Cricket Committee thought that any further relaxation or variation of the rule might be problematic and didn’t discuss the usage of artificial wax on the ball.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>But what does saliva ban&nbsp;means to bowlers?&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The art and science behind swing bowling are not simple. Swing bowling is one of the most prized skills for a bowler. The game of cricket excels when a pacer troubles the batsmen with swing bowling with the new ball and it reaches a whole new level when a bowler comes back to reverse swing it with the old ball. But will the latest recommendation hamper the balance between the bat and ball? It is likely.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="James Anderson" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f709f517-7b7b-4f84-b32b-a04390298c80" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_18Y4FZ.jpg" /></p>

<p>The science around outswing, inswing and reverse swing bowling are one of the most misunderstood parts of the game. Swing bowlers also live in a narrow path dividing legality and illegality.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Spit-polishing the cricket has been part of the legal method of shining one side of the ball in a bid to create aerodynamic asymmetry which assists in swinging the ball. But it is just one of the factors. The wrist, finger position, the direction and speed of release, the length, the point of release, everything matters and it is one of the toughest skills for a pace bowler to master. Even more so when it comes to moving the ball both ways.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Whenever a cricket fan thinks of a pacer, apart from the speed of the ball, one element which strikes the mind is the bowlers licking the finger and then applying the saliva to one side of the ball only to rub it on the trousers to improve the polish of the ball – but this could be wiped off completely from the cricket book until a vaccine for the dreaded virus is found.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="Dale Steyn" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8bdec650-0405-4fbd-ac1d-2b0d4460ab54" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/EYUAGH7X0AMQ5of.jpeg" /></p>

<h2><strong>Can sweat completely replace saliva? No.</strong></h2>

<p>Whether sweat can completely replace saliva is still unclear but one thing is evident that bowlers are going to face some major troubles when the ball gets old and need more liquid to polish the ball properly.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Swing bowling is a really crucial part of cricket and there have been instances when bowlers and fielders have been caught red-handed while tampering the ball with external and banned substances.</p>

<p><img alt="Cook" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a55cc5d9-6581-4a4c-bf85-2f32409fb93d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/202005190057034663138.jpg" /></p>

<p>The most recent cases are of Aussie cricketers Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft. Former South African captain Faf du Plessis was twice sanctioned for ball-tampering. Former Pakistan players Shahid Afridi, Shoaib Akhtar were also found guilty of tampering with the ball. This indicates how important swing bowling is not only important for a pacer but for the entire team as well and a ban on saliva could further take the balance away from the bowlers.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>A possible solution for bowlers?</strong></h2>

<p>As of now, the bowlers and cricketers need to find out a way to shine the ball by using sweat as the World Health Organization states there have been no reports of faecal−oral transmission of the COVID-19 virus to date. Hence, the deadly virus does not spread through perspiration (sweat).</p>

<p><img alt="Virat Kohli" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a0cb0ba2-59c3-4438-81bf-2b13fba20916" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/download%20%281%29.jpg" /></p>

<p>But what can bowlers do here? Nothing. With immense health risk of COVID-19, players need to get rid of their habit of polishing the ball with saliva. And before the resumption of cricket, bowlers can hope that the ICC discusses the usage of artificial wax in their future meetings to balance the game between the bat and ball.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Cricket is gearing up to come back to life after a prolonged break due to COVID-19 pandemic. But this time, with new rules and regulations for the safety and well-being of the players, support staff and everyone involved in a series or tournament.

Cricket is gearing up to come back to life after a prolonged break due to COVID-19 pandemic. But this time, with new rules and regulations for the safety and well-being of the players, support staff and everyone involved in a series or tournament. ICC’s Cricket Committee has recommended a ban on the usage of saliva for polishing or nurturing the cricket ball and the proposal will now be passed to the ICC Chief Executives' Committee in early June for approval and it is highly expected that the recommendation will get rubber-stamped for the resumption of cricket post-pandemic. The catch for bowlers? Only sweat can be used to polish the ball as the Cricket Committee thought that any further relaxation or variation of the rule might be problematic and didn’t discuss the usage of artificial wax on the ball. But what does saliva ban means to bowlers? The art and science behind swing bowling are not simple. Swing bowling is one of the most prized skills for a bowler. The game of cricket excels when a pacer troubles the batsmen with swing bowling with the new ball and it reaches a whole new level when a bowler comes back to reverse swing it with the old ball. But will the latest recommendation hamper the balance between the bat and ball? It is likely. The science around outswing, inswing and reverse swing bowling are one of the most misunderstood parts of the game. Swing bowlers also live in a narrow path dividing legality and illegality. Spit-polishing the cricket has been part of the legal method of shining one side of the ball in a bid to create aerodynamic asymmetry which assists in swinging the ball. But it is just one of the factors. The wrist, finger position, the direction and speed of release, the length, the point of release, everything matters and it is one of the toughest skills for a pace bowler to master. Even more so when it comes to moving the ball both ways. Whenever a cricket fan thinks of a pacer, apart from the speed of the ball, one element which strikes the mind is the bowlers licking the finger and then applying the saliva to one side of the ball only to rub it on the trousers to improve the polish of the ball – but this could be wiped off completely from the cricket book until a vaccine for the dreaded virus is found. Can sweat completely replace saliva? No. Whether sweat can completely replace saliva is still unclear but one thing is evident that bowlers are going to face some major troubles when the ball gets old and need more liquid to polish the ball properly. Swing bowling is a really crucial part of cricket and there have been instances when bowlers and fielders have been caught red-handed while tampering the ball with external and banned substances. The most recent cases are of Aussie cricketers Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft. Former South African captain Faf du Plessis was twice sanctioned for ball-tampering. Former Pakistan players Shahid Afridi, Shoaib Akhtar were also found guilty of tampering with the ball. This indicates how important swing bowling is not only important for a pacer but for the entire team as well and a ban on saliva could further take the balance away from the bowlers. A possible solution for bowlers? As of now, the bowlers and cricketers need to find out a way to shine the ball by using sweat as the World Health Organization states there have been no reports of faecal−oral transmission of the COVID-19 virus to date. Hence, the deadly virus does not spread through perspiration (sweat). But what can bowlers do here? Nothing. With immense health risk of COVID-19, players need to get rid of their habit of polishing the ball with saliva. And before the resumption of cricket, bowlers can hope that the ICC discusses the usage of artificial wax in their future meetings to balance the game between the bat and ball.

Saliva ban: A fresh headache for swing bowlers

<p>The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is not planning to organize training camps for its contracted players following the clearance by the Indian government to open sports complexes and stadia. However, the BCCI will coordinate with state-associations to resume practice at a local level in what will be the fourth phase of the lockdown in India.</p>

<p>As per the Ministry of Home Affairs guidelines issued on Sunday, stadiums will be allowed to open but with no spectators allowed in the lockdown which was extended till May 31, indicating that players can restart their individual training.</p>

<p>"Taking into the account the restrictions on air travel and movement of people till May 31, the BCCI will wait further before organizing a skill-based training camp for its contracted players," BCCI Treasurer Arun Dhumal said in a press release issued late on Monday night.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/yuvraj-raina-dhawan-destroy-pakistans-shahid-afridi-over-controversial-remarks-on-pm-modi-and-kashmir-299371" hreflang="en">Yuvraj, Raina, Dhawan destroy Pakistan's Shahid Afridi over controversial remarks on PM Modi and Kashmir</a></strong></p>

<p>"In the meantime, the BCCI will study guidelines at the state level and will work in sync with State Cricket Associations to chalk out a programme for skill-based training at a local level," Dhumal said.</p>

<p>"The BCCI Office-Bearers will continue their interactions with the team management and draw up a suitable plan for the entire team once the situation further improves," he added.</p>

<p>Dhumal further confirmed that the board will not rush into any decision that can hamper India’s efforts in containing the spread of the dreaded virus.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mha-allows-sports-complexes-stadia-to-open-in-lockdown-4-but-no-entry-for-spectators-299272" hreflang="en">MHA allows sports complexes, stadia to open in Lockdown 4 but no entry for spectators</a></strong></p>

<p>"The Board reiterates that the safety and well-being of its athletes and support staff is paramount and will not rush into any decision that can hamper or jeopardize India's efforts in containing the spread of the virus."</p>

<p>Meanwhile, there is still no clarity on the future of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 as the cash-rich tournament stands indefinitely suspended.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The COVID-19 pandemic has led to around 3,000 deaths in India with over 95,000 people tested positive thus far.</p>


The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is not planning to organize training camps for its contracted players following the clearance by the Indian government to open sports complexes and stadia.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is not planning to organize training camps for its contracted players following the clearance by the Indian government to open sports complexes and stadia. However, the BCCI will coordinate with state-associations to resume practice at a local level in what will be the fourth phase of the lockdown in India. As per the Ministry of Home Affairs guidelines issued on Sunday, stadiums will be allowed to open but with no spectators allowed in the lockdown which was extended till May 31, indicating that players can restart their individual training. "Taking into the account the restrictions on air travel and movement of people till May 31, the BCCI will wait further before organizing a skill-based training camp for its contracted players," BCCI Treasurer Arun Dhumal said in a press release issued late on Monday night. ALSO READ: Yuvraj, Raina, Dhawan destroy Pakistan's Shahid Afridi over controversial remarks on PM Modi and Kashmir "In the meantime, the BCCI will study guidelines at the state level and will work in sync with State Cricket Associations to chalk out a programme for skill-based training at a local level," Dhumal said. "The BCCI Office-Bearers will continue their interactions with the team management and draw up a suitable plan for the entire team once the situation further improves," he added. Dhumal further confirmed that the board will not rush into any decision that can hamper India’s efforts in containing the spread of the dreaded virus. ALSO READ: MHA allows sports complexes, stadia to open in Lockdown 4 but no entry for spectators "The Board reiterates that the safety and well-being of its athletes and support staff is paramount and will not rush into any decision that can hamper or jeopardize India's efforts in containing the spread of the virus." Meanwhile, there is still no clarity on the future of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 as the cash-rich tournament stands indefinitely suspended. The COVID-19 pandemic has led to around 3,000 deaths in India with over 95,000 people tested positive thus far.

BCCI plans to resume skill-based practice at local level for contracted players

<p>The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday announced the postponement of two qualifying events due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The two qualifying events affected by the coronavirus pandemic are the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier and the ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup Qualifiers Europe Division 2.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The decision by the ICC was taken after thorough consultation with the members and relevant government public health authorities. The ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier was scheduled to be held in Sri Lanka between July 2 and July 19, where three teams were to qualify from the event in New Zealand.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Whereas the qualifiers for the ICC U-19 Cricket World Cup 2022 was set to commence with the European Regional Qualifier in Denmark between July 24 and July 30. The ICC will further communicate and work with all participating members in a bid to reschedule these events in future.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/international-nurses-day-virat-kohli-sachin-tendulkar-pay-heartfelt-tribute-to-silent-guardians-298153" hreflang="en">International Nurses Day: Virat Kohli, Sachin Tendulkar pay heartfelt tribute to 'silent guardians'</a></strong></p>

<p>The two remaining ICC U-19 Cricket World Cup Regional Qualifier Division 2 events have been kept under review. The Africa event is due to take place in Tanzania between 7 and 14 August and the Asia event between 1 and 9 December in Thailand. The Division 1 events in all five regions are scheduled to take place in 2021.</p>

<p>ICC Head of Events, Chris Tetley said: “In light of the continuing travel restrictions, global health concerns and government and public health authority advice we have decided to postpone two further upcoming qualifying events due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The Women’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier and the Europe qualifier to the U19 Cricket World Cup 2022 have both been impacted.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-motivation-to-win-world-cup-for-india-keeps-me-going-mithali-raj-opens-up-on-future-of-womens-cricket-post-covid-19-and-more-298059" hreflang="en">Exclusive: 'Motivation to win World Cup for India keeps me going' - Mithali Raj opens up on future of women's cricket post-COVID-19 and more</a></strong></p>

<p>“Our priority during this difficult period is to protect the well-being of players, coaches, officials, fans and the whole cricket community and we will take well-informed, responsible decisions in relation to both postponing events and resuming international cricket.</p>

<p>“These are both important events with the Women’s CWC Qualifier one step away from New Zealand 2021 and the Europe qualifier which signifies the start of the U19 Cricket World Cup 2022 pathway. We will work in partnership with the Members to find an appropriate window to reschedule these events as soon as is safe and practical to do so. I would like to thank the Members for their cooperation and continued support.”</p>

<p><br />
&nbsp;</p>


The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday announced the postponement of two qualifying events due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The two qualifying events affected by the coronavirus pandemic are the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier and the ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup Qualifiers Europe Division 2.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday announced the postponement of two qualifying events due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The two qualifying events affected by the coronavirus pandemic are the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier and the ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup Qualifiers Europe Division 2. The decision by the ICC was taken after thorough consultation with the members and relevant government public health authorities. The ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier was scheduled to be held in Sri Lanka between July 2 and July 19, where three teams were to qualify from the event in New Zealand. Whereas the qualifiers for the ICC U-19 Cricket World Cup 2022 was set to commence with the European Regional Qualifier in Denmark between July 24 and July 30. The ICC will further communicate and work with all participating members in a bid to reschedule these events in future. ALSO READ: International Nurses Day: Virat Kohli, Sachin Tendulkar pay heartfelt tribute to 'silent guardians' The two remaining ICC U-19 Cricket World Cup Regional Qualifier Division 2 events have been kept under review. The Africa event is due to take place in Tanzania between 7 and 14 August and the Asia event between 1 and 9 December in Thailand. The Division 1 events in all five regions are scheduled to take place in 2021. ICC Head of Events, Chris Tetley said: “In light of the continuing travel restrictions, global health concerns and government and public health authority advice we have decided to postpone two further upcoming qualifying events due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The Women’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier and the Europe qualifier to the U19 Cricket World Cup 2022 have both been impacted. ALSO READ: Exclusive: 'Motivation to win World Cup for India keeps me going' - Mithali Raj opens up on future of women's cricket post-COVID-19 and more “Our priority during this difficult period is to protect the well-being of players, coaches, officials, fans and the whole cricket community and we will take well-informed, responsible decisions in relation to both postponing events and resuming international cricket. “These are both important events with the Women’s CWC Qualifier one step away from New Zealand 2021 and the Europe qualifier which signifies the start of the U19 Cricket World Cup 2022 pathway. We will work in partnership with the Members to find an appropriate window to reschedule these events as soon as is safe and practical to do so. I would like to thank the Members for their cooperation and continued support.”

ICC Women's Cricket World Cup Qualifier postponed due to COVID-19 pandemic

<p>There has been plenty of talks surrounding the fate of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, which was postponed indefinitely amid the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown measures. Even if IPL 2020 takes place later in the year, the matches will be played behind closed doors in all likelihood. Indian cricket team’s skipper Virat Kohli has given his take on the prospect of playing matches in empty stadiums as the swashbuckling right-handed batsman said that players are habituated of playing in front of so many and he doesn’t know how they will react to stands being completely empty.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kohli further said that while matches will be played with good intensity, the emotions and passion that fans bring to the stadium will be hard to recreate. The Indian skipper added that the feeling of crowd connecting with players during tensed matches will be missed by everyone. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/team-india-ready-for-two-week-quarantine-phase-before-australia-test-series-bcci-official-297391" hreflang="en">Team India ready for two-week quarantine phase before Australia Test series: BCCI official</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>"Emotions are very difficult to recreate"</strong></h2>

<p>"It’s quite a possible situation, it might happen, I honestly don’t know how everyone is going to take that because we all are used to playing in front of so many passionate fans, I know it will be played at a very good intensity but that feeling of the crowd connecting with the players and the tension of the game where everyone goes through it in the stadium, those emotions are very difficult to recreate,” Kohli said on Star Sports’ show Cricket Connected.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-jofra-archer-to-james-maddison-epremier-league-2-kicks-off-with-enthralling-action-on-fifa-20-297400" hreflang="en">From Jofra Archer to James Maddison: ePremier League 2 kicks off with enthralling action on FIFA 20</a></strong></p>

<p>“Things will still go on, but I doubt that one will feel that magic happening inside because of the atmosphere that was created. We will play sports how it is supposed to be played, but those magical moments will be difficult to come by,” he said.</p>

<p>While nothing has been confirmed on the fate of IPL 2020, the speculations are rife that the BCCI is looking at an alternate window to conduct the cash-rich tournament later in the year.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


There has been plenty of talks surrounding the fate of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, which was postponed indefinitely amid the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown measures.

There has been plenty of talks surrounding the fate of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, which was postponed indefinitely amid the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown measures. Even if IPL 2020 takes place later in the year, the matches will be played behind closed doors in all likelihood. Indian cricket team’s skipper Virat Kohli has given his take on the prospect of playing matches in empty stadiums as the swashbuckling right-handed batsman said that players are habituated of playing in front of so many and he doesn’t know how they will react to stands being completely empty. Kohli further said that while matches will be played with good intensity, the emotions and passion that fans bring to the stadium will be hard to recreate. The Indian skipper added that the feeling of crowd connecting with players during tensed matches will be missed by everyone. ALSO READ: Team India ready for two-week quarantine phase before Australia Test series: BCCI official "Emotions are very difficult to recreate" "It’s quite a possible situation, it might happen, I honestly don’t know how everyone is going to take that because we all are used to playing in front of so many passionate fans, I know it will be played at a very good intensity but that feeling of the crowd connecting with the players and the tension of the game where everyone goes through it in the stadium, those emotions are very difficult to recreate,” Kohli said on Star Sports’ show Cricket Connected. ALSO READ: From Jofra Archer to James Maddison: ePremier League 2 kicks off with enthralling action on FIFA 20 “Things will still go on, but I doubt that one will feel that magic happening inside because of the atmosphere that was created. We will play sports how it is supposed to be played, but those magical moments will be difficult to come by,” he said. While nothing has been confirmed on the fate of IPL 2020, the speculations are rife that the BCCI is looking at an alternate window to conduct the cash-rich tournament later in the year.

'Magical moments will be difficult to come by': Virat Kohli gives his take on playing IPL behind closed doors

<p>There have been talks surrounding the use of saliva and sweat once cricket resumes post-COVID-19 pandemic. Many bowlers have raised concerns that their life would be really difficult, on the field, if they are not allowed to use sweat or saliva to shine the ball due to health concerns. However, the dreaded coronavirus may force the authorities to allow one of the biggest taboos in cricket – ball-tampering – with authorities considering the possibility of allowing the use of artificial substances in a bid to put a bit of shine on the red-ball in the longest format of the game. The move, if passed, would see bowlers use other substances, under the supervision of umpires.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per a report in a leading cricket portal, the usage&nbsp;of saliva post-COVID-19 is one of the concerns raised by the ICC medical committee and the issue will be addressed before the sport is resumed. Authorities and office-bearers understand the need to shine the ball as everyone wants a fair contest between the batsmen and bowler throughout the course of a match. The use of artificial substances, if agreed upon, will be strictly under umpires’ supervision – the same as players currently do to clean the ball.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sports-fans-on-twitter-take-a-trip-down-memory-lane-amid-the-lockdown-294271" hreflang="en">Sports fans on Twitter take a trip down memory lane amid the lockdown</a></strong></p>

<p>The move would require a lot of flexibility in regards to substance on the ball being used for a series. Kookaburra, Dukes and SG balls are expected to do better with substances like leather moisture, wax or shoe polish. And the move would need to be implemented at all levels of cricket to prevent players from sharing the saliva-lathered ball.</p>

<p>ICC Cricket Committee and MCC’s World Cricket Committee will discuss the issue before cricket returns. As of now, the ICC Cricket Committee is set to meet, via video conference, in May or June.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>The current rules of cricket in relation to the condition of the ball:</strong></h2>

<p>41.3.1 The umpires shall make frequent and irregular inspections of the ball. In addition, they shall immediately inspect the ball if they suspect anyone of attempting to change the condition of the ball, except as permitted in 41.3.2.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ftp-till-2023-set-for-revamp-in-wake-of-covid-19-icc-after-cec-meet-294322" hreflang="en">FTP till 2023 set for revamp in wake of COVID-19: ICC after CEC meet</a></strong></p>

<p>41.3.2 It is an offence for any player to take any action which changes the condition of the ball. Except in carrying out his/her normal duties, a batsman is not allowed to wilfully damage the ball. See also Law 5.5 (Damage to the ball).</p>

<p>A fielder may, however</p>

<p>41.3.2.1 polish the ball on his/her clothing provided that no artificial substance is used and that such polishing wastes no time.</p>

<p>41.3.2.2 remove mud from the ball under the supervision of an umpire.</p>

<p>41.3.2.3 dry a wet ball on a piece of cloth that has been approved by the umpires.</p>

<p>41.3.3 The umpires shall consider the condition of the ball to have been unfairly changed if any action by any player does not comply with the conditions in 41.3.2.</p>


There have been talks surrounding the use of saliva and sweat once cricket resumes post-COVID-19 pandemic. Many bowlers have raised concerns that their life would be really difficult, on the field, if they are not allowed to use sweat or saliva to shine the ball due to health concerns.

There have been talks surrounding the use of saliva and sweat once cricket resumes post-COVID-19 pandemic. Many bowlers have raised concerns that their life would be really difficult, on the field, if they are not allowed to use sweat or saliva to shine the ball due to health concerns. However, the dreaded coronavirus may force the authorities to allow one of the biggest taboos in cricket – ball-tampering – with authorities considering the possibility of allowing the use of artificial substances in a bid to put a bit of shine on the red-ball in the longest format of the game. The move, if passed, would see bowlers use other substances, under the supervision of umpires. As per a report in a leading cricket portal, the usage of saliva post-COVID-19 is one of the concerns raised by the ICC medical committee and the issue will be addressed before the sport is resumed. Authorities and office-bearers understand the need to shine the ball as everyone wants a fair contest between the batsmen and bowler throughout the course of a match. The use of artificial substances, if agreed upon, will be strictly under umpires’ supervision – the same as players currently do to clean the ball. ALSO READ: Sports fans on Twitter take a trip down memory lane amid the lockdown The move would require a lot of flexibility in regards to substance on the ball being used for a series. Kookaburra, Dukes and SG balls are expected to do better with substances like leather moisture, wax or shoe polish. And the move would need to be implemented at all levels of cricket to prevent players from sharing the saliva-lathered ball. ICC Cricket Committee and MCC’s World Cricket Committee will discuss the issue before cricket returns. As of now, the ICC Cricket Committee is set to meet, via video conference, in May or June. The current rules of cricket in relation to the condition of the ball: 41.3.1 The umpires shall make frequent and irregular inspections of the ball. In addition, they shall immediately inspect the ball if they suspect anyone of attempting to change the condition of the ball, except as permitted in 41.3.2. ALSO READ: FTP till 2023 set for revamp in wake of COVID-19: ICC after CEC meet 41.3.2 It is an offence for any player to take any action which changes the condition of the ball. Except in carrying out his/her normal duties, a batsman is not allowed to wilfully damage the ball. See also Law 5.5 (Damage to the ball). A fielder may, however 41.3.2.1 polish the ball on his/her clothing provided that no artificial substance is used and that such polishing wastes no time. 41.3.2.2 remove mud from the ball under the supervision of an umpire. 41.3.2.3 dry a wet ball on a piece of cloth that has been approved by the umpires. 41.3.3 The umpires shall consider the condition of the ball to have been unfairly changed if any action by any player does not comply with the conditions in 41.3.2.

Ball-tampering to be legalised? Cricket authorities set for discussion on saliva conondrum in wake of COVID-19

<p>As India navigates through the extended lockdown period amidst the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Indians from all parts of the country are flocking to Twitter to stay connected and share positivity during these tough times. One sentiment is increasingly standing out in Indian sports conversations on Twitter, that is&nbsp;nostalgia. Fans are uniting emotionally in the current times of social distancing, as they revisit the good old days together.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Due to COVID-19, major sports events like the Tokyo Olympics, IPL, Wimbledon, etc. have either been cancelled or postponed. While there is no live on-field action, sports fans in India are taking to Twitter to relive some of the best sporting moments from the past and to celebrate their fondest memories from those games on the service, during the lockdown.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>The unforgettable ICC Cricket World Cup 2011 finale</strong></h2>

<p>Amid lockdown, athletes, as well as their fans, have found both joy and togetherness in celebrating the glorious victories of the past, albeit virtually. April 2 holds a special place in the annals of Indian cricket, as on this very day in 2011, Team India won their second Cricket World Cup.</p>

<p>The final match, played against Sri Lanka, at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium was a memorable one that no cricket fan is likely to forget anytime soon. Reminiscing their memories, Indians on Twitter shared pictures and memories of the match, including Gautam Gambhir&nbsp;and captain MS Dhoni's&nbsp;record-breaking partnership of 109 runs, Yuvraj Singh&nbsp;carrying his stellar form into the Final, and of course, that MS Dhoni six that sealed the deal for India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Add to that the team carrying Sachin Tendulkar on their shoulders for a victory lap&nbsp;certainly made the golden moment etched forever in the history of our nation.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Words will never be able to describe what a moment for every Indian it was , this it what we live for !!jai Hind <a href="https://t.co/rsldfWv79E">pic.twitter.com/rsldfWv79E</a></p>
— yuvraj singh (@YUVSTRONG12) <a href="https://twitter.com/YUVSTRONG12/status/1245600714644017152?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Things end but memories last forever. Remembering the rush, excitement, thrill of it all, of the fantastic moments leading up to us lifting the world cup. Irreplaceable. Unforgettable. Thankful to have been a part of this iconic moment in the history of cricket. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/worldcup2011?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#worldcup2011</a> <a href="https://t.co/qIISLuzS0k">pic.twitter.com/qIISLuzS0k</a></p>
— Suresh Raina (@ImRaina) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRaina/status/1245572747033337858?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">World Cup winner 2011.what a great day it was for Whole India .proud moment <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Grateful?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Grateful</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/shukarhaiterarabba?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#shukarhaiterarabba</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sachin_rt</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/YUVSTRONG12?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@YUVSTRONG12</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ImZaheer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImZaheer</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/GautamGambhir?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GautamGambhir</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/virendersehwag?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@virendersehwag</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRaina?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImRaina</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/iamyusufpathan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@iamyusufpathan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/munaf?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#munaf</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/nehraji?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#nehraji</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/sreesanth36?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sreesanth36</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Gary_Kirsten?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Gary_Kirsten</a> <a href="https://t.co/aDD8VMzFEq">pic.twitter.com/aDD8VMzFEq</a></p>
— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) <a href="https://twitter.com/harbhajan_singh/status/1245624932232388611?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">Yuviiiiii <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorldCupHero?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorldCupHero</a> <a href="https://t.co/GoGugVGuNz">pic.twitter.com/GoGugVGuNz</a></p>
— Rajkumar YUVI VJ (@SRKRAJKUMAR12) <a href="https://twitter.com/SRKRAJKUMAR12/status/1245614518253699075?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Sachin - 482 Runs<br />
<br />
Gambhir - 393 Runs<br />
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Virendra sehwag - 380 Runs<br />
<br />
Yuvi - 362 Runs &amp; 15 Wickets &amp; Man Of Series<br />
<br />
Zaheer Khan - 21 Wickets<br />
<br />
They are all the main reason for india Win Worldcup 2011 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/9YearsOf2011WC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#9YearsOf2011WC</a> <a href="https://t.co/WDXLz9dqM5">pic.twitter.com/WDXLz9dqM5</a></p>
— @Naniprincefollower (@nanissmb27) <a href="https://twitter.com/nanissmb27/status/1245589420205457408?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>IPL moments</strong></h2>

<p>India’s biggest T20 cricket tournament, Indian Premier League has been postponed until further notice. While fans are missing the on-field action, they are having a blast from the past with conversations about their favourite IPL moments on Twitter. From reliving Brendon McCullum's smashing 158* in the inaugural edition of IPL to discussing Chris Gayle's whirlwind 175* against Pune Warriors in IPL 2013, fans have been taking a dip into memory lane.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OnThisDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OnThisDay</a> in 2015,<br />
<br />
Our destructive openers, Dwayne Smith &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/Bazmccullum?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Bazmccullum</a> played a blistering innings of 62(30) &amp; 46(20) chasing 184 against Mumbai Indians. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Whistlepodu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Whistlepodu</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/throwback?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#throwback</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/yellove?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#yellove</a> <a href="https://t.co/7O7eCisnjN">pic.twitter.com/7O7eCisnjN</a></p>
— Whistle Podu Army ® - CSK Fan Club (@CSKFansOfficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/CSKFansOfficial/status/1251049589374771200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">18th April, 2008: <a href="https://twitter.com/Bazmccullum?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Bazmccullum</a> blazed away to 158*, in the first ever IPL match between KKR and RCB.<br />
<br />
Exactly 12 years later, we get to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ReLive?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ReLive</a> this match, ball by ball. This will also be in Hindi for the 1st time on TV!<br />
<br />
Watch it this Saturday, 8 pm onwards on <a href="https://twitter.com/StarSportsIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@StarSportsIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/46cC3WOgpx">pic.twitter.com/46cC3WOgpx</a></p>
— Pavan Kumar Allada (@pavankumar_apk) <a href="https://twitter.com/pavankumar_apk/status/1250313518093496320?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Same day, against the same opponents, different year <a href="https://twitter.com/sandeep25a?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sandeep25a</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/vijayshankar260?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@vijayshankar260</a> made their debut <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OnThisDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OnThisDay</a>!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OTD?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OTD</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OrangeArmy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OrangeArmy</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SRH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SRH</a> <a href="https://t.co/uYo6k4VQA4">pic.twitter.com/uYo6k4VQA4</a></p>
— SunRisers Hyderabad (@SunRisers) <a href="https://twitter.com/SunRisers/status/1249357839740465152?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">7 years ago Chris Gayle produced this monster innings<br />
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175 runs, 66 balls, 17 sixes<br />
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The fastest EVER century <a href="https://t.co/8TRklm8rNS">pic.twitter.com/8TRklm8rNS</a></p>
— The Wrong ‘Un (@wronguncricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/wronguncricket/status/1253230320444473345?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Brian Lara 400*</strong></h2>

<p>16 years ago, legendary West Indies batsman Brian Lara (@BrianLara) recorded the highest-ever Test score by slamming an unbeaten 400 against England at St John's in Antigua. The match ended in a draw, but Lara’s knock continues to live on in the memories of the scores of cricket fans and pundits alike. Needless to say, Indian fans too couldn’t stop talking about it on Twitter.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Onthisday?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Onthisday</a> : 2004<br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/BrianLara?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BrianLara</a> becomes the 1st batsman to score 400 runs in test cricket.<br />
He scored 400* from 582 balls including 43 fours and 4 sixes against England in the 4th test match of the series. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cricket</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/westindieslegends?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#westindieslegends</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2020</a><br />
<br />
Follow <a href="https://twitter.com/imAkshaytadvi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imAkshaytadvi</a> <a href="https://t.co/9MN90gx2jc">pic.twitter.com/9MN90gx2jc</a></p>
— Akshay Tadvi🇮🇳 (@imAkshaytadvi) <a href="https://twitter.com/imAkshaytadvi/status/1249201064894660609?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OnThisDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OnThisDay</a> in 2004, Brian Lara slammed a record-beating 400* against England in St John's<br />
<br />
It remains the highest-ever individual score in Tests.<br />
<br />
An extraordinary knock by an extraordinary cricketer <a href="https://t.co/eDSj9RzxFq">pic.twitter.com/eDSj9RzxFq</a></p>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1249200581908008961?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">On this day in 2004, Brian Lara smashed 400 not out against England to set the record for highest individual score in Test cricket. <a href="https://t.co/LntEfrsWTg">pic.twitter.com/LntEfrsWTg</a></p>
— (@niranjan_69) <a href="https://twitter.com/niranjan_69/status/1249168266058235904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Some more iconic moments</h2>

<p>Not only iconic moments from IPL or record-breaking matches, but players and fans have also been taking to Twitter to relive some of the rare moments in the world of sports, from the past.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">1985 winning team of world Champions trophy in Australia. <a href="https://t.co/BEbC4sJFt0">pic.twitter.com/BEbC4sJFt0</a></p>
— Chetan Sharma (@chetans1987) <a href="https://twitter.com/chetans1987/status/1250800550943379461?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OnThisDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OnThisDay</a> in 1995, India won their fourth Asia Cup title<br />
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They restricted Sri Lanka to 230/7 in the final in Sharjah, and chased it down with eight wickets to spare <a href="https://t.co/8HAWZqmcH0">pic.twitter.com/8HAWZqmcH0</a></p>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1249902709500715009?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 14, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">How did you produce that, <a href="https://twitter.com/DaleSteyn62?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DaleSteyn62</a>? What a magician this guy was with the ball!! Also kudos to Ian Gould for terrific umpiring. <a href="https://t.co/e4LGsRiP59">pic.twitter.com/e4LGsRiP59</a></p>
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) <a href="https://twitter.com/mufaddal_vohra/status/1250690750976794624?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The very first Test match delivery was bowled <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OnThisDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OnThisDay</a> in 1877, between Australia and England, in Melbourne.<br />
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What’s your favourite Test Match memory of all time? Tell us <a href="https://t.co/f4mpin6Wxc">pic.twitter.com/f4mpin6Wxc</a></p>
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/StarSportsIndia/status/1239106486963277824?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>With no live cricket action, social media platforms have come to the rescue for fans and players to keep themselves engaged. Twitter has not only witnessed ardent lovers of the gentlemen's game reliving some of the matches and moments from past but has also seen players connecting to their fans and followers even more.&nbsp;</p>


As India navigates through the extended lockdown period amidst the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Indians from all parts of the country are flocking to Twitter to stay connected and share positivity during these tough times.

As India navigates through the extended lockdown period amidst the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Indians from all parts of the country are flocking to Twitter to stay connected and share positivity during these tough times. One sentiment is increasingly standing out in Indian sports conversations on Twitter, that is nostalgia. Fans are uniting emotionally in the current times of social distancing, as they revisit the good old days together. Due to COVID-19, major sports events like the Tokyo Olympics, IPL, Wimbledon, etc. have either been cancelled or postponed. While there is no live on-field action, sports fans in India are taking to Twitter to relive some of the best sporting moments from the past and to celebrate their fondest memories from those games on the service, during the lockdown. The unforgettable ICC Cricket World Cup 2011 finale Amid lockdown, athletes, as well as their fans, have found both joy and togetherness in celebrating the glorious victories of the past, albeit virtually. April 2 holds a special place in the annals of Indian cricket, as on this very day in 2011, Team India won their second Cricket World Cup. The final match, played against Sri Lanka, at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium was a memorable one that no cricket fan is likely to forget anytime soon. Reminiscing their memories, Indians on Twitter shared pictures and memories of the match, including Gautam Gambhir and captain MS Dhoni's record-breaking partnership of 109 runs, Yuvraj Singh carrying his stellar form into the Final, and of course, that MS Dhoni six that sealed the deal for India. Add to that the team carrying Sachin Tendulkar on their shoulders for a victory lap certainly made the golden moment etched forever in the history of our nation. Words will never be able to describe what a moment for every Indian it was , this it what we live for !!jai Hind pic.twitter.com/rsldfWv79E — yuvraj singh (@YUVSTRONG12) April 2, 2020 × Things end but memories last forever. Remembering the rush, excitement, thrill of it all, of the fantastic moments leading up to us lifting the world cup. Irreplaceable. Unforgettable. Thankful to have been a part of this iconic moment in the history of cricket. #worldcup2011 pic.twitter.com/qIISLuzS0k — Suresh Raina (@ImRaina) April 2, 2020 × World Cup winner 2011.what a great day it was for Whole India .proud moment #Grateful #shukarhaiterarabba @sachin_rt @msdhoni @imVkohli @YUVSTRONG12 @ImZaheer @GautamGambhir @virendersehwag @ImRaina @iamyusufpathan #munaf #nehraji @sreesanth36 @Gary_Kirsten pic.twitter.com/aDD8VMzFEq — Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) April 2, 2020 × Yuviiiiii #WorldCupHero pic.twitter.com/GoGugVGuNz — Rajkumar YUVI VJ (@SRKRAJKUMAR12) April 2, 2020 × Sachin - 482 Runs Gambhir - 393 Runs Virendra sehwag - 380 Runs Yuvi - 362 Runs & 15 Wickets & Man Of Series Zaheer Khan - 21 Wickets They are all the main reason for india Win Worldcup 2011 #9YearsOf2011WC pic.twitter.com/WDXLz9dqM5 — @Naniprincefollower (@nanissmb27) April 2, 2020 × IPL moments India’s biggest T20 cricket tournament, Indian Premier League has been postponed until further notice. While fans are missing the on-field action, they are having a blast from the past with conversations about their favourite IPL moments on Twitter. From reliving Brendon McCullum's smashing 158* in the inaugural edition of IPL to discussing Chris Gayle's whirlwind 175* against Pune Warriors in IPL 2013, fans have been taking a dip into memory lane. #OnThisDay in 2015, Our destructive openers, Dwayne Smith & @Bazmccullum played a blistering innings of 62(30) & 46(20) chasing 184 against Mumbai Indians. #Whistlepodu #throwback #yellove pic.twitter.com/7O7eCisnjN — Whistle Podu Army ® - CSK Fan Club (@CSKFansOfficial) April 17, 2020 × 18th April, 2008: @Bazmccullum blazed away to 158*, in the first ever IPL match between KKR and RCB. Exactly 12 years later, we get to #ReLive this match, ball by ball. This will also be in Hindi for the 1st time on TV! Watch it this Saturday, 8 pm onwards on @StarSportsIndia pic.twitter.com/46cC3WOgpx — Pavan Kumar Allada (@pavankumar_apk) April 15, 2020 × Same day, against the same opponents, different year @sandeep25a & @vijayshankar260 made their debut #OnThisDay!#OTD #OrangeArmy #SRH pic.twitter.com/uYo6k4VQA4 — SunRisers Hyderabad (@SunRisers) April 12, 2020 × 7 years ago Chris Gayle produced this monster innings 175 runs, 66 balls, 17 sixes The fastest EVER century pic.twitter.com/8TRklm8rNS — The Wrong ‘Un (@wronguncricket) April 23, 2020 × Brian Lara 400* 16 years ago, legendary West Indies batsman Brian Lara (@BrianLara) recorded the highest-ever Test score by slamming an unbeaten 400 against England at St John's in Antigua. The match ended in a draw, but Lara’s knock continues to live on in the memories of the scores of cricket fans and pundits alike. Needless to say, Indian fans too couldn’t stop talking about it on Twitter. #Onthisday : 2004 @BrianLara becomes the 1st batsman to score 400 runs in test cricket. He scored 400* from 582 balls including 43 fours and 4 sixes against England in the 4th test match of the series. #Cricket #westindieslegends #IPL2020 Follow @imAkshaytadvi pic.twitter.com/9MN90gx2jc — Akshay Tadvi🇮🇳 (@imAkshaytadvi) April 12, 2020 × #OnThisDay in 2004, Brian Lara slammed a record-beating 400* against England in St John's It remains the highest-ever individual score in Tests. An extraordinary knock by an extraordinary cricketer pic.twitter.com/eDSj9RzxFq — ICC (@ICC) April 12, 2020 × On this day in 2004, Brian Lara smashed 400 not out against England to set the record for highest individual score in Test cricket. pic.twitter.com/LntEfrsWTg — (@niranjan_69) April 12, 2020 × Some more iconic moments Not only iconic moments from IPL or record-breaking matches, but players and fans have also been taking to Twitter to relive some of the rare moments in the world of sports, from the past. 1985 winning team of world Champions trophy in Australia. pic.twitter.com/BEbC4sJFt0 — Chetan Sharma (@chetans1987) April 16, 2020 × #OnThisDay in 1995, India won their fourth Asia Cup title They restricted Sri Lanka to 230/7 in the final in Sharjah, and chased it down with eight wickets to spare pic.twitter.com/8HAWZqmcH0 — ICC (@ICC) April 14, 2020 × How did you produce that, @DaleSteyn62? What a magician this guy was with the ball!! Also kudos to Ian Gould for terrific umpiring. pic.twitter.com/e4LGsRiP59 — Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) April 16, 2020 × The very first Test match delivery was bowled #OnThisDay in 1877, between Australia and England, in Melbourne. What’s your favourite Test Match memory of all time? Tell us pic.twitter.com/f4mpin6Wxc — Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) March 15, 2020 × With no live cricket action, social media platforms have come to the rescue for fans and players to keep themselves engaged. Twitter has not only witnessed ardent lovers of the gentlemen's game reliving some of the matches and moments from past but has also seen players connecting to their fans and followers even more.

Sports fans on Twitter take a trip down memory lane amid the lockdown

<p>The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in cancellation or postponement of possibly every sporting event. While events such as Tokyo Olympics, Wimbledon, IPL 2020, among many others, have already been either cancelled or postponed amid the coronavirus pandemic, all eyes are on the forthcoming ICC T20 World Cup, which is scheduled to be hosted by Australia from October 18 to November 15.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, with Australia sealing its borders for six months till September 30 to combat the spread of dreaded COVID-19, speculations are rife that the ICC T20 World Cup could be postponed to next year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A source close to the developments on Monday confirmed that the ICC will not a call on the showpiece event till as late as August while citing the health and well-being of everyone as the top-most priority. The source admitted that ICC will not rush with its decision and will take time to decide on the fate of this event.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bit-surprised-by-cas-financial-health-but-we-will-work-together-overcome-crisis-hazlewood-293519" hreflang="en">Bit surprised by CA's financial health but we will work together overcome crisis: Hazlewood</a></strong></p>

<p>"Right now, things look bleak, and people's health is the first priority. However, what if the situation improves in a few months' time? What if the ICC announces that the T20 World Cup is postponed in May itself, and things improve a couple of months down the line, and cricket's governing body realizes that it took a hasty decision. The ICC will take time to decide on the fate of this event, till as late as August. Don't expect any announcement before that," the source told a leading daily.</p>

<p>"As of now, everything will proceed as per plan and assuming that the tournament will be held as per its original dates. So, all other preparations by the ICC's Local Organising Committee (LOC) in Australia, which is already in place, will be on in full swing," he said.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-chiefs-exploring-all-options-over-t20-world-cup-293212" hreflang="en">Cricket chiefs 'exploring all options' over T20 World Cup</a></strong></p>

<p>There have been debates on whether the ICC T20 World Cup should be held behind the closed doors with the sporting fraternity giving mixed reactions to the speculations. While many former cricketers have backed the idea of matches without a crowd, others have dismissed the theory of such a major tournament played without spectators.&nbsp;</p>

<p>An ICC spokesperson further said: "During this period of uncertainty, our first responsibility is to protect the well-being of the players, coaches, officials, fans and the whole cricket community and we will take a safety-first approach to all the operations over the coming months."</p>


The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in cancellation or postponement of possibly every sporting event. While events such as Tokyo Olympics, Wimbledon, IPL 2020, among many others, have already been either cancelled or postponed amid the coronavirus pandemic, all eyes are on the forthcoming ICC T20 World Cup, which is scheduled to be hosted by Australia from October 18 to November 15.

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in cancellation or postponement of possibly every sporting event. While events such as Tokyo Olympics, Wimbledon, IPL 2020, among many others, have already been either cancelled or postponed amid the coronavirus pandemic, all eyes are on the forthcoming ICC T20 World Cup, which is scheduled to be hosted by Australia from October 18 to November 15. However, with Australia sealing its borders for six months till September 30 to combat the spread of dreaded COVID-19, speculations are rife that the ICC T20 World Cup could be postponed to next year. A source close to the developments on Monday confirmed that the ICC will not a call on the showpiece event till as late as August while citing the health and well-being of everyone as the top-most priority. The source admitted that ICC will not rush with its decision and will take time to decide on the fate of this event. ALSO READ: Bit surprised by CA's financial health but we will work together overcome crisis: Hazlewood "Right now, things look bleak, and people's health is the first priority. However, what if the situation improves in a few months' time? What if the ICC announces that the T20 World Cup is postponed in May itself, and things improve a couple of months down the line, and cricket's governing body realizes that it took a hasty decision. The ICC will take time to decide on the fate of this event, till as late as August. Don't expect any announcement before that," the source told a leading daily. "As of now, everything will proceed as per plan and assuming that the tournament will be held as per its original dates. So, all other preparations by the ICC's Local Organising Committee (LOC) in Australia, which is already in place, will be on in full swing," he said. ALSO READ: Cricket chiefs 'exploring all options' over T20 World Cup There have been debates on whether the ICC T20 World Cup should be held behind the closed doors with the sporting fraternity giving mixed reactions to the speculations. While many former cricketers have backed the idea of matches without a crowd, others have dismissed the theory of such a major tournament played without spectators. An ICC spokesperson further said: "During this period of uncertainty, our first responsibility is to protect the well-being of the players, coaches, officials, fans and the whole cricket community and we will take a safety-first approach to all the operations over the coming months."

ICC unlikely to take call on T20 World Cup before August

<p>Former Pakistan first-class cricketer Zafar Sarfaraz has passed away after testing positive for COVID-19.The 50-year-old had been on a ventilator in the intensive care unit of a private hospital in Peshawar for the last three days, ESPNCricinfo reported.</p>

<p>Sarfraz has become the first professional cricketer to succumb to COVID-19 in Pakistan.Sarfaraz had made his debut in 1988 and he went on to score 616 runs from 15 first-class games for Peshawar.He also managed to score 96 runs from six one-day games before retiring in 1994.</p>

<p>He then took up the role of coaching both the senior and the Under-19 Peshawar teams in the mid-2000s.Zafar was the brother of Pakistan international player Akhtar Sarfraz.Akhtar had passed away 10 months ago in the same city after a battle with colon cancer.</p>

<p>Peshawar, a city in the north of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, has 744 of the nearly 5500 active cases in the country.Nearly 100 people have died from the coronavirus pandemic in Pakistan.</p>


Former Pakistan first-class cricketer Zafar Sarfaraz has passed away after testing positive for COVID-19.The 50-year-old had been on a ventilator in the intensive care unit of a private hospital in Peshawar for the last three days, ESPNCricinfo reported.

Former Pakistan first-class cricketer Zafar Sarfaraz has passed away after testing positive for COVID-19.The 50-year-old had been on a ventilator in the intensive care unit of a private hospital in Peshawar for the last three days, ESPNCricinfo reported. Sarfraz has become the first professional cricketer to succumb to COVID-19 in Pakistan.Sarfaraz had made his debut in 1988 and he went on to score 616 runs from 15 first-class games for Peshawar.He also managed to score 96 runs from six one-day games before retiring in 1994. He then took up the role of coaching both the senior and the Under-19 Peshawar teams in the mid-2000s.Zafar was the brother of Pakistan international player Akhtar Sarfraz.Akhtar had passed away 10 months ago in the same city after a battle with colon cancer. Peshawar, a city in the north of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, has 744 of the nearly 5500 active cases in the country.Nearly 100 people have died from the coronavirus pandemic in Pakistan.

COVID-19: Former Pakistan first-class cricketer Zafar Sarfaraz passes away after testing positive for coronavirus

<p>With almost the entire world going under lockdown in a bid to curb the spread of COVID-19, sporting calendar for the year 2020 has been ripped into pieces. Some of the biggest tournaments have already been either cancelled or postponed and all eyes are on the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, which was originally scheduled to start from March 29 before getting postponed till April 15.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With the situation surrounding COVID-19 in India deteriorating with each passing day, the future of IPL 2020 has been left hanging in balance. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly has said that they are monitoring developments while adding nothing is in favour of any kind of sport in the world, forget IPL.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The former Indian captain further said that he will provide an official statement on the future of IPL on Monday (April 13) after discussing the latest developments with other office-bearers of the BCCI. However, Ganguly hinted it is highly improbable that the cash-rich tournament will take place this year as he said: “when life has come to a standstill, where does sport have future in this.”</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-should-have-retired-after-world-cup-seems-stuck-now-shoaib-akhtar-292206" hreflang="en">MS Dhoni should have retired after World Cup, seems stuck now: Shoaib Akhtar</a></strong></p>

<p>“We keep monitoring developments. At the present moment, we can’t say anything. And what is there to say anyway? Airports are shut, people are stuck at home, offices are locked down, nobody can go anywhere. And it seems this is how it's going to be till the middle of May. Where will you get players from, where do players travel? It’s just simple common sense that at the moment, nothing is in favour of any kind of sport anywhere in the world, forget IPL,” Ganguly told a leading daily.</p>

<p>“I will be able to give an update on that on Monday after speaking to the other office-bearers (of BCCI). But practically speaking, when life has come to a standstill everywhere in the world, where does sport have a future in this,” he added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/twenty-years-on-cricket-still-reeling-from-cronje-scandal-292199" hreflang="en">Twenty years on, cricket still reeling from Cronje scandal</a></strong></p>

<p>Reflecting on the current situation surrounding coronavirus, Ganguly said the world has never seen anything like this while hoping nobody sees this sort of situation again in their lifetime.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It’s terrible. In my 46 years of life, I never experienced anything like this. Not just that, the world has never seen anything like this. And I hope nobody sees this situation again. The entire world is thinking&nbsp;how many people may die in the next two weeks! It’s unbelievable,” the BCCI president said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, there were reports which said the BCCI is looking for an alternate window during August and September to conduct IPL 2020 which could lead to postponement or cancellation of Asia Cup 2020. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, COVID-19 has now infected &nbsp;1,853,155 &nbsp;people worldwide and 114,247 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Whereas,&nbsp;The total number of confirmed coronavirus cases in India has risen to 9152, including 308 deaths, as of Monday morning.</p>


With almost the entire world going under lockdown in a bid to curb the spread of COVID-19, sporting calendar for the year 2020 has been ripped into pieces. Some of the biggest tournaments have already been either cancelled or postponed and all eyes are on the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, which was originally scheduled to start from March 29 before getting postponed till April 15.

With almost the entire world going under lockdown in a bid to curb the spread of COVID-19, sporting calendar for the year 2020 has been ripped into pieces. Some of the biggest tournaments have already been either cancelled or postponed and all eyes are on the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, which was originally scheduled to start from March 29 before getting postponed till April 15. With the situation surrounding COVID-19 in India deteriorating with each passing day, the future of IPL 2020 has been left hanging in balance. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly has said that they are monitoring developments while adding nothing is in favour of any kind of sport in the world, forget IPL. The former Indian captain further said that he will provide an official statement on the future of IPL on Monday (April 13) after discussing the latest developments with other office-bearers of the BCCI. However, Ganguly hinted it is highly improbable that the cash-rich tournament will take place this year as he said: “when life has come to a standstill, where does sport have future in this.” ALSO READ: MS Dhoni should have retired after World Cup, seems stuck now: Shoaib Akhtar “We keep monitoring developments. At the present moment, we can’t say anything. And what is there to say anyway? Airports are shut, people are stuck at home, offices are locked down, nobody can go anywhere. And it seems this is how it's going to be till the middle of May. Where will you get players from, where do players travel? It’s just simple common sense that at the moment, nothing is in favour of any kind of sport anywhere in the world, forget IPL,” Ganguly told a leading daily. “I will be able to give an update on that on Monday after speaking to the other office-bearers (of BCCI). But practically speaking, when life has come to a standstill everywhere in the world, where does sport have a future in this,” he added. ALSO READ: Twenty years on, cricket still reeling from Cronje scandal Reflecting on the current situation surrounding coronavirus, Ganguly said the world has never seen anything like this while hoping nobody sees this sort of situation again in their lifetime. “It’s terrible. In my 46 years of life, I never experienced anything like this. Not just that, the world has never seen anything like this. And I hope nobody sees this situation again. The entire world is thinking how many people may die in the next two weeks! It’s unbelievable,” the BCCI president said. Earlier, there were reports which said the BCCI is looking for an alternate window during August and September to conduct IPL 2020 which could lead to postponement or cancellation of Asia Cup 2020. Meanwhile, COVID-19 has now infected 1,853,155 people worldwide and 114,247 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Whereas, The total number of confirmed coronavirus cases in India has risen to 9152, including 308 deaths, as of Monday morning.

Nothing is in favour of any kind of sport, forget IPL: BCCI president Sourav Ganguly

<p>County cricketers will take "maximum reductions" in their salaries during April and May and have agreed to waive £1 million ($1.25 million) in prize money during the coronavirus crisis, the Professional Cricketers' Association (PCA) announced on Wednesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The county championship, comprising four-day matches, was due to start on Sunday but English cricket is shut down until at least May 28, with the expectation of further postponements.</p>

<p>The PCA on Wednesday welcomed the collective player agreement, which covers an initial period of April and May.</p>

<p>"Discussions between the PCA, ECB (England and Wales Cricket Board) and 18 first-class counties reached a conclusion today with all parties supporting an initial two-month agreement that will see maximum reductions to player salaries and relinquishing of domestic prize money," the PCA said in a statement.</p>

<p>The PCA has relinquished £1 million of the domestic player prize money for 2020 and players will also agree to be furloughed if asked to by their county.</p>

<p>Champions Essex confirmed that the club's playing staff, along with most non-playing staff, had been placed on furlough.</p>

<p>A number of other clubs including Yorkshire and Worcestershire had previously confirmed they would be using the government's job retention scheme.</p>

<p>PCA chairman Daryl Mitchell said: "The coronavirus pandemic will continue to put financial pressure on the game and this initial two-month agreement will support the game for the period of April and May.</p>

<p>"We were due to start the county championship season on Sunday and sadly for us all that will not be the case. As a group of players, we will do everything we can to ensure that when cricket does return the sport is in a position to thrive."</p>

<p>The ECB last week announced a £61 million aid package in response to the "once-in-a-generation" challenge.</p>


County cricketers will take "maximum reductions" in their salaries during April and May and have agreed to waive £1 million ($1.25 million) in prize money during the coronavirus crisis, the Professional Cricketers' Association (PCA) announced on Wednesday.

County cricketers will take "maximum reductions" in their salaries during April and May and have agreed to waive £1 million ($1.25 million) in prize money during the coronavirus crisis, the Professional Cricketers' Association (PCA) announced on Wednesday. The county championship, comprising four-day matches, was due to start on Sunday but English cricket is shut down until at least May 28, with the expectation of further postponements. The PCA on Wednesday welcomed the collective player agreement, which covers an initial period of April and May. "Discussions between the PCA, ECB (England and Wales Cricket Board) and 18 first-class counties reached a conclusion today with all parties supporting an initial two-month agreement that will see maximum reductions to player salaries and relinquishing of domestic prize money," the PCA said in a statement. The PCA has relinquished £1 million of the domestic player prize money for 2020 and players will also agree to be furloughed if asked to by their county. Champions Essex confirmed that the club's playing staff, along with most non-playing staff, had been placed on furlough. A number of other clubs including Yorkshire and Worcestershire had previously confirmed they would be using the government's job retention scheme. PCA chairman Daryl Mitchell said: "The coronavirus pandemic will continue to put financial pressure on the game and this initial two-month agreement will support the game for the period of April and May. "We were due to start the county championship season on Sunday and sadly for us all that will not be the case. As a group of players, we will do everything we can to ensure that when cricket does return the sport is in a position to thrive." The ECB last week announced a £61 million aid package in response to the "once-in-a-generation" challenge.

Cricketers agree virus package to support game

<p>The two-match Test series between Australia and Bangladesh, which was scheduled to be held in the month of June, has been postponed due to health concerns and travel restrictions in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The two-match Test series was to be held under the banner of ICC World Test Championship and the postponement will add to the complications of the WTC final, scheduled to be held in 2021. There have been a few bilateral Test series that have been cancelled due to the pandemic and re-organising them in a short time-space will not be an easy task even though the series can be rescheduled by bilateral agreements+.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Postponing the tour is regrettable, but I would like to thank the Bangladesh Cricket Board for the open, honest and responsible discussions that led us to this mutually-agreed position," Cricket Australia CEO Kevin Roberts said.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-sure-who-went-easy-on-virat-kohli-for-ipl-contract-tim-paine-rubbishes-michael-clarkes-claims-of-aussies-being-scared-to-sledge-india-291544" hreflang="en">Not sure who went easy on Virat Kohli for IPL contract: Tim Paine rubbishes Michael Clarke's claims of Aussies being 'scared' to sledge India</a></strong></p>

<p>"The health of our people and communities is the number one priority for both Boards and that is reflected in the action we have taken in postponing the two Test matches.</p>

<p>"As we know, the global cricket calendar is very busy but we will do everything we can to honour our commitment to Bangladesh and will continue to work with the BCB on an agreed date."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sit-back-and-relax-at-home-kapil-dev-dismisses-shoaib-akhtars-proposal-of-india-pakistan-charity-series-to-fight-against-covid-19-291536" hreflang="en">'Sit back and relax at home' - Kapil Dev dismisses Shoaib Akhtar’s proposal of India-Pakistan charity series to fight against COVID-19</a></strong></p>

<p>Australian Test captain Tim Paine had earlier said that the Test series against Bangladesh was unlikely to be played as planned with the boards now agreeing to postpone the two-match rubber.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moreover, there are major doubts about the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020) and other major cricketing events such as the Asia Cup 2020 and T20 World Cup. However, no official call has been taken on these big-shot tournaments, as of now.</p>


The two-match Test series between Australia and Bangladesh, which was scheduled to be held in the month of June, has been postponed due to health concerns and travel restrictions in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The two-match Test series between Australia and Bangladesh, which was scheduled to be held in the month of June, has been postponed due to health concerns and travel restrictions in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The two-match Test series was to be held under the banner of ICC World Test Championship and the postponement will add to the complications of the WTC final, scheduled to be held in 2021. There have been a few bilateral Test series that have been cancelled due to the pandemic and re-organising them in a short time-space will not be an easy task even though the series can be rescheduled by bilateral agreements+. "Postponing the tour is regrettable, but I would like to thank the Bangladesh Cricket Board for the open, honest and responsible discussions that led us to this mutually-agreed position," Cricket Australia CEO Kevin Roberts said. ALSO READ: Not sure who went easy on Virat Kohli for IPL contract: Tim Paine rubbishes Michael Clarke's claims of Aussies being 'scared' to sledge India "The health of our people and communities is the number one priority for both Boards and that is reflected in the action we have taken in postponing the two Test matches. "As we know, the global cricket calendar is very busy but we will do everything we can to honour our commitment to Bangladesh and will continue to work with the BCB on an agreed date." ALSO READ: 'Sit back and relax at home' - Kapil Dev dismisses Shoaib Akhtar’s proposal of India-Pakistan charity series to fight against COVID-19 Australian Test captain Tim Paine had earlier said that the Test series against Bangladesh was unlikely to be played as planned with the boards now agreeing to postpone the two-match rubber. Moreover, there are major doubts about the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020) and other major cricketing events such as the Asia Cup 2020 and T20 World Cup. However, no official call has been taken on these big-shot tournaments, as of now.

Another one bites the dust as Australia vs Bangladesh Test series postponed due to COVID-19 pandemic

<p>England wicketkeeper Jos Buttler has raised more than £65,000 ($80,000) to help fight the coronavirus by auctioning off his World Cup final shirt.</p>

<p>Buttler's shirt, which he wore when completing the last-ball run-out that saw England beat New Zealand at Lord's last year, was sold to raise money for specialist heart and lung centres provided by the Royal Brompton and Harefield hospitals in London.</p>

<p>Buttler, who earlier in the showpiece match had hit a fifty and batted in the Super Over, put his long-sleeve keeping jersey up for sale on eBay a week ago.</p>

<p>By the time the auction closed on Tuesday, the shirt had attracted 82 bids with&nbsp;the winner paying £65,100.</p>

<p>Buttler, speaking on Monday, said: "It's a very special shirt but I think it takes on extra meaning with it being able to hopefully go to the emergency cause."</p>


England wicketkeeper Jos Buttler has raised more than £65,000 ($80,000) to help fight the coronavirus by auctioning off his World Cup final shirt. Buttler's shirt, which he wore when completing the last-ball run-out that saw England beat New Zealand at Lord's last year, was sold to raise money for specialist heart and lung centres provided by the Royal Brompton and Harefield hospitals in London.

England wicketkeeper Jos Buttler has raised more than £65,000 ($80,000) to help fight the coronavirus by auctioning off his World Cup final shirt. Buttler's shirt, which he wore when completing the last-ball run-out that saw England beat New Zealand at Lord's last year, was sold to raise money for specialist heart and lung centres provided by the Royal Brompton and Harefield hospitals in London. Buttler, who earlier in the showpiece match had hit a fifty and batted in the Super Over, put his long-sleeve keeping jersey up for sale on eBay a week ago. By the time the auction closed on Tuesday, the shirt had attracted 82 bids with the winner paying £65,100. Buttler, speaking on Monday, said: "It's a very special shirt but I think it takes on extra meaning with it being able to hopefully go to the emergency cause."

Jos Buttler's World Cup final shirt raises £65,000 for hospital appeal

<p class="MsoNormal">The debate surrounding who was the better player between West Indies legend Brian Lara and Indian legend Sachin Tendulkar still continues to be the topic of discussion among ardent cricket lovers. However, Lara may have just put an end to all the debate with his latest post on social media platform Instagram as the southpaw shared a video clip of Tendulkar’s classic knock of 242 not-out against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground in 2004. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Lara cited Tendulkar’s discipline to bat in tough conditions as he urged everyone to be disciplined in life and follow the guidelines provided by the government to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. The former Windies captain said that everyone can learn the discipline to combat anything in life by watching Tendulkar’s performance against Australia in the Sydney Test.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“@sachintendulkar Not was but IS one of the Greatest to have played our glorious game. We can all learn the discipline needed to COMBAT anything in life from this performance 241 not out vs Australia. #playsafe #backagainstwall,” Lara captioned the video.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-captain-joe-root-trying-to-make-most-of-enforced-break-290446" hreflang="en">England captain Joe Root trying to make most of enforced break</a></strong></p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B-e-OuAlxU6/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">@sachintendulkar Not was but IS one of the Greatest to have played our glorious game. We can all learn the discipline needed to COMBAT anything in life from this performance 241 not out vs Australia. #playsafe #backagainstwall</a></p>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/brianlaraofficial/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Brian Lara</a> (@brianlaraofficial) on <time datetime="2020-04-02T17:09:12+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Apr 2, 2020 at 10:09am PDT</time></p>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-can-wait-as-life-is-most-important-now-says-suresh-raina-290404" hreflang="en">IPL 2020 can wait as life is most important now, says Suresh Raina</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Tendulkar had stitched a memorable partnership with VVS Laxman as the Master Blaster went on to score a gritty 241 not-out whereas Laxman scored 178 against a world-class Aussie bowling attack to help India post a mammoth target of 705-7 (dec).<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">At that time, the Aussie bowling attack had the likes of&nbsp;Jason Gillespie, Brett Lee, Nathan Bracken, Stuart McGill, among others. However, Tendulkar survived the initial scare due to his sheer determination and grit while going on to score a splendid double ton. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">While some will still continue to debate on who was the better batsman between Lara and Tendulkar, everyone should take the main lesson out of Lara’s post and follow the advisory by the health ministry to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. <o:p></o:p></p>


The debate surrounding who was the better player between West Indies legend Brian Lara and Indian legend Sachin Tendulkar still continues to be the topic of discussion among ardent cricket lovers.

The debate surrounding who was the better player between West Indies legend Brian Lara and Indian legend Sachin Tendulkar still continues to be the topic of discussion among ardent cricket lovers. However, Lara may have just put an end to all the debate with his latest post on social media platform Instagram as the southpaw shared a video clip of Tendulkar’s classic knock of 242 not-out against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground in 2004. Lara cited Tendulkar’s discipline to bat in tough conditions as he urged everyone to be disciplined in life and follow the guidelines provided by the government to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. The former Windies captain said that everyone can learn the discipline to combat anything in life by watching Tendulkar’s performance against Australia in the Sydney Test. “@sachintendulkar Not was but IS one of the Greatest to have played our glorious game. We can all learn the discipline needed to COMBAT anything in life from this performance 241 not out vs Australia. #playsafe #backagainstwall,” Lara captioned the video. ALSO READ: England captain Joe Root trying to make most of enforced break View this post on Instagram @sachintendulkar Not was but IS one of the Greatest to have played our glorious game. We can all learn the discipline needed to COMBAT anything in life from this performance 241 not out vs Australia. #playsafe #backagainstwall A post shared by Brian Lara (@brianlaraofficial) on Apr 2, 2020 at 10:09am PDT × ALSO READ: IPL 2020 can wait as life is most important now, says Suresh Raina Tendulkar had stitched a memorable partnership with VVS Laxman as the Master Blaster went on to score a gritty 241 not-out whereas Laxman scored 178 against a world-class Aussie bowling attack to help India post a mammoth target of 705-7 (dec). At that time, the Aussie bowling attack had the likes of Jason Gillespie, Brett Lee, Nathan Bracken, Stuart McGill, among others. However, Tendulkar survived the initial scare due to his sheer determination and grit while going on to score a splendid double ton. While some will still continue to debate on who was the better batsman between Lara and Tendulkar, everyone should take the main lesson out of Lara’s post and follow the advisory by the health ministry to combat the COVID-19 pandemic.

Learn from Sachin Tendulkar's discipline to combat anything in life: Brian Lara's classic message to aware people of COVID-19

<p>England Test captain Joe Root wants to make the most of some unexpected extra time with his family as he urged his side to reflect on their game while cricket is put on hold due to the coronavirus pandemic.</p>

<p>Monday should have seen Root leading England in the second Test against Sri Lanka in Colombo.</p>

<p>But the tour was halted midway through a warm-up match on March 13, before the two-Test series had even started, in response to the COVID-19 outbreak.</p>

<p>The England and Wales Cricket Board have postponed all domestic cricket until at least May 28.</p>

<p>"Getting the chance to spend time with family at home is obviously something we don't get a huge amount of," said Root, the father of a three-year-old son, in a conference call.</p>

<p>"Very strange times we are living in. I think it's important that when we get our opportunities we try to help and support everyone around us and really come together like we've seen a lot of throughout the whole nation over the last couple of weeks."</p>

<p>While there may not be any cricket, Root's responsibilities as Test captain are still continuing as he checks on the health and well-being of his squad.</p>

<p>"I've actually been in touch with every single player across the course of the winter throughout the last couple of weeks to make sure everyone is OK, make sure everyone is getting their stuff done," he said.</p>

<p>England drew the Ashes series last year before winning away to South Africa.</p>

<p>They are supposed to play three-Test series against both the West Indies and Pakistan in the English summer, although the future of those campaigns remains uncertain.</p>

<p>"Trying to get a bit of feedback as well. We now have some time on our hands to have a good assessment of where we are as a team," said Root.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I suppose (we can) look at a few things and use this as an opportunity to really improve things and where we might want to take the team forward. There is obviously a lot going around in sport, a lot of uncertainty about when things will start again.</p>

<p>"I think one thing that the guys have done really well is try to stay active, stay fit, stay positive. That's been quite clear when I've called with everyone."</p>


England Test captain Joe Root wants to make the most of some unexpected extra time with his family as he urged his side to reflect on their game while cricket is put on hold due to the coronavirus pandemic.

England Test captain Joe Root wants to make the most of some unexpected extra time with his family as he urged his side to reflect on their game while cricket is put on hold due to the coronavirus pandemic. Monday should have seen Root leading England in the second Test against Sri Lanka in Colombo. But the tour was halted midway through a warm-up match on March 13, before the two-Test series had even started, in response to the COVID-19 outbreak. The England and Wales Cricket Board have postponed all domestic cricket until at least May 28. "Getting the chance to spend time with family at home is obviously something we don't get a huge amount of," said Root, the father of a three-year-old son, in a conference call. "Very strange times we are living in. I think it's important that when we get our opportunities we try to help and support everyone around us and really come together like we've seen a lot of throughout the whole nation over the last couple of weeks." While there may not be any cricket, Root's responsibilities as Test captain are still continuing as he checks on the health and well-being of his squad. "I've actually been in touch with every single player across the course of the winter throughout the last couple of weeks to make sure everyone is OK, make sure everyone is getting their stuff done," he said. England drew the Ashes series last year before winning away to South Africa. They are supposed to play three-Test series against both the West Indies and Pakistan in the English summer, although the future of those campaigns remains uncertain. "Trying to get a bit of feedback as well. We now have some time on our hands to have a good assessment of where we are as a team," said Root. "I suppose (we can) look at a few things and use this as an opportunity to really improve things and where we might want to take the team forward. There is obviously a lot going around in sport, a lot of uncertainty about when things will start again. "I think one thing that the guys have done really well is try to stay active, stay fit, stay positive. That's been quite clear when I've called with everyone."

England captain Joe Root trying to make most of enforced break

<p class="MsoNormal">Former England captain Michael Vaughan on Friday came up with a suggestion in regards to the much-anticipated Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 as he said that a five-week tournament could be held in September-October including all overseas and domestic players. Vaughan suggested that IPL 2020 could be played as a warm-up for the ICC T20 World Cup, which is scheduled to be played in Australia in October 2020. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Vaughan took to social media platform to lay out his suggestion as the former English cricketer said IPL is such an important tournament as it affects cricket’s economy not just in India but globally while adding the tournament could be played for five weeks if travel restrictions are cleared out by then. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“My thoughts on the IPL .. as it’s such an important tournament for the games economy globally not just in India .. I would play a 5 week tournament Sept/Oct including all players as a warm up for the T20 WC .. that’s if we are clear to travel by then .. Thoughts? #Stayhome,” Vaughan tweeted on Friday.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pm-modi-holds-meeting-with-40-sportspersons-including-virat-kohli-sachin-tendulkar-pv-sindhu-to-discuss-covid-19-situation-in-india-290310" hreflang="en">PM Modi holds meeting with 40 sportspersons including Virat Kohli, Sachin Tendulkar, PV Sindhu to discuss COVID-19 situation in India</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">My thoughts on the IPL .. as it’s such an important tournament for the games economy globally not just in India .. I would play a 5 week tournament Sept/Oct including all players as a warm up for the T20 WC .. that’s if we are clear to travel by then .. Thoughts ? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Stayhome?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Stayhome</a></p>
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelVaughan/status/1245970061875122176?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>The 13<sup>th</sup> edition of IPL was earlier scheduled to be held on March 29 but was suspended until April 15 in the wake of COVID-19 outbreak in the country. While the three-match ODI series between India and South Africa was aborted mid-way, other bilateral series (worldwide) and tournaments like Pakistan Super League were also postponed. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-new-zealand-june-july-tours-in-doubt-due-to-coronavirus-290281" hreflang="en">Cricket: New Zealand June-July tours in doubt due to coronavirus</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Eventually, the Indian government decided to put a hold on domestic and international air travel with the country going under a 21-day lockdown period to curb the spread of the deadly COVID-19 virus.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">With the number of positive cases rapidly rising in India, the BCCI is looking for an alternate window later in 2020 given there’s a free window if Asia Cup 2020 is postponed or scrapped for the season.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">In India, the total number of positive cases has rapidly risen to 2,069, as of Thursday morning, according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare with the death toll now at 53.<o:p></o:p></p>


Former England captain Michael Vaughan on Friday came up with a suggestion in regards to the much-anticipated Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 as he said that a five-week tournament could be held in September-October including all overseas and domestic players.

Former England captain Michael Vaughan on Friday came up with a suggestion in regards to the much-anticipated Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 as he said that a five-week tournament could be held in September-October including all overseas and domestic players. Vaughan suggested that IPL 2020 could be played as a warm-up for the ICC T20 World Cup, which is scheduled to be played in Australia in October 2020. Vaughan took to social media platform to lay out his suggestion as the former English cricketer said IPL is such an important tournament as it affects cricket’s economy not just in India but globally while adding the tournament could be played for five weeks if travel restrictions are cleared out by then. “My thoughts on the IPL .. as it’s such an important tournament for the games economy globally not just in India .. I would play a 5 week tournament Sept/Oct including all players as a warm up for the T20 WC .. that’s if we are clear to travel by then .. Thoughts? #Stayhome,” Vaughan tweeted on Friday. ALSO READ: PM Modi holds meeting with 40 sportspersons including Virat Kohli, Sachin Tendulkar, PV Sindhu to discuss COVID-19 situation in India My thoughts on the IPL .. as it’s such an important tournament for the games economy globally not just in India .. I would play a 5 week tournament Sept/Oct including all players as a warm up for the T20 WC .. that’s if we are clear to travel by then .. Thoughts ? #Stayhome — Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) April 3, 2020 × The 13th edition of IPL was earlier scheduled to be held on March 29 but was suspended until April 15 in the wake of COVID-19 outbreak in the country. While the three-match ODI series between India and South Africa was aborted mid-way, other bilateral series (worldwide) and tournaments like Pakistan Super League were also postponed. ALSO READ: Cricket: New Zealand June-July tours in doubt due to coronavirus Eventually, the Indian government decided to put a hold on domestic and international air travel with the country going under a 21-day lockdown period to curb the spread of the deadly COVID-19 virus. With the number of positive cases rapidly rising in India, the BCCI is looking for an alternate window later in 2020 given there’s a free window if Asia Cup 2020 is postponed or scrapped for the season. In India, the total number of positive cases has rapidly risen to 2,069, as of Thursday morning, according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare with the death toll now at 53.

IPL 2020 for 5 weeks as warm-up for T20 World Cup? Michael Vaughan comes up with interesting suggestion

<p>The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will take a call on the much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 on around April 15 as the apex board is waiting for the situation surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic to clear out with India continuing&nbsp;to remain in a 21-day lockdown to combat the deadly virus.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A source within the cricket governing body said the board cannot take a definite call unless the situation clears out while adding it might become really confusing if the BCCI takes a call now and situation changes around April 15.</p>

<p>“There is no clarity as of now when the situation improves, only then we can take a call. When the picture is so hazy, how can we take a call. Suppose we decide now, but the situation is not clear by April 15th, then what will happen,” the source told ANI.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wc-2011-more-than-a-6-for-one-xi-that-never-played-again-for-other-marriage-anniversary-for-3rd-290144" hreflang="en">WC 2011: More than a ''6'' for one, XI that never played again for other, marriage anniversary for 3rd</a></strong></p>

<p>With domestic and international travel completely restricted amid the lockdown, there are huge question marks on the availability of foreign players. The source said that there’s no point thinking about anything until the situation surrounding the visa restrictions clear out.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Until and unless we are clear on visa restrictions, there could be country wise restrictions as well. So, we do not know what the situation will be, as of now the situation is so hazy, so there is no point in thinking about anything,” the source added.</p>

<p>There are plenty of talks around the BCCI planning to cut the salaries of players amid COVID-19 pandemic. However, the source within the BCCI said that the board has not even thought of cutting players’ wage.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hit-list-whats-next-in-line-for-possible-coronavirus-postponement-290137" hreflang="en">Hit list: What's next in line for possible coronavirus postponement</a></strong></p>

<p>“We have not thought about it, this is not even in our minds as of now,” the source said.</p>

<p>However, there’s a slight possibility that the cash-rich tournament could be played at a later window in 2020 with the BCCI searching for a free space later down the year.</p>

<p>“See if we had discussed some permutation or combination last time when we had met with franchises, but this depends on the window we finally get. If there is some window available, then only we can take a call. Right now, the entire country should just focus on when the situation improves,” the source said.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will take a call on the much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 on around April 15 as the apex board is waiting for the situation surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic to clear out with India continuing to remain in a 21-day lockdown to combat the deadly virus.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will take a call on the much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 on around April 15 as the apex board is waiting for the situation surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic to clear out with India continuing to remain in a 21-day lockdown to combat the deadly virus. A source within the cricket governing body said the board cannot take a definite call unless the situation clears out while adding it might become really confusing if the BCCI takes a call now and situation changes around April 15. “There is no clarity as of now when the situation improves, only then we can take a call. When the picture is so hazy, how can we take a call. Suppose we decide now, but the situation is not clear by April 15th, then what will happen,” the source told ANI. ALSO READ: WC 2011: More than a ''6'' for one, XI that never played again for other, marriage anniversary for 3rd With domestic and international travel completely restricted amid the lockdown, there are huge question marks on the availability of foreign players. The source said that there’s no point thinking about anything until the situation surrounding the visa restrictions clear out. “Until and unless we are clear on visa restrictions, there could be country wise restrictions as well. So, we do not know what the situation will be, as of now the situation is so hazy, so there is no point in thinking about anything,” the source added. There are plenty of talks around the BCCI planning to cut the salaries of players amid COVID-19 pandemic. However, the source within the BCCI said that the board has not even thought of cutting players’ wage. ALSO READ: Hit list: What's next in line for possible coronavirus postponement “We have not thought about it, this is not even in our minds as of now,” the source said. However, there’s a slight possibility that the cash-rich tournament could be played at a later window in 2020 with the BCCI searching for a free space later down the year. “See if we had discussed some permutation or combination last time when we had met with franchises, but this depends on the window we finally get. If there is some window available, then only we can take a call. Right now, the entire country should just focus on when the situation improves,” the source said.

BCCI to take call on IPL 2020 after situation around COVID-19 improves

<p>Due to COVID-19 pandemic, the entire sporting calendar has come to a screeching halt. All the major tournaments and leagues have been either cancelled or postponed which has made things difficult financially for the sporting bodies. England cricket team’s limited-overs skipper, Eoin Morgan is okay to play matches behind closed doors in these unprecedented times.</p>

<p>Morgan said that there was little to no crowd in County matches while adding the Test series against Pakistan in Dubai and Abu Dhabi are the exact same, hence players have experienced what it is to play without any crowd and that shouldn’t be an issue. However, Morgan is of the view that cricket should only resume when medical experts think is ‘OK’ to play behind closed doors.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gautam-gambhir-left-fuming-with-obsession-over-ms-dhonis-2011-world-cup-final-winning-6-290027" hreflang="en">Gautam Gambhir left fuming with obsession over MS Dhoni's 2011 World Cup final winning 6</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>"Sport can play a huge role in uplifting the world"</strong></h2>

<p>"I've played county cricket for a long time and Test match cricket in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, and that's the exact same, I'd say," Morgan was quoted as saying by AFP.</p>

<p>"From a very serious point of view, if medical experts advised us it was OK to play behind closed doors and it was on TV, I think that would be a huge step forward for the game.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/coronavirus-going-to-leave-more-people-bankrupt-than-dead-says-shoaib-akhtar-290001" hreflang="en">'Coronavirus going to leave more people bankrupt than dead', says Shoaib Akhtar</a></strong></p>

<p>"Sport can play a huge role in uplifting the world and people's perspective on things, although he added that cricket "in the grand scheme of things doesn't matter," the English skipper added.</p>

<p>Morgan further praised Jos Buttler’s ‘incredibly kind gesture’ as the gloveman auctioned his ICC World Cup 2019 final jersey in a bid to raise funds for two hospitals treating COVID-19 patients.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Due to COVID-19 pandemic, the entire sporting calendar has come to a screeching halt. All the major tournaments and leagues have been either cancelled or postponed which has made things difficult financially for the sporting bodies.

Due to COVID-19 pandemic, the entire sporting calendar has come to a screeching halt. All the major tournaments and leagues have been either cancelled or postponed which has made things difficult financially for the sporting bodies. England cricket team’s limited-overs skipper, Eoin Morgan is okay to play matches behind closed doors in these unprecedented times. Morgan said that there was little to no crowd in County matches while adding the Test series against Pakistan in Dubai and Abu Dhabi are the exact same, hence players have experienced what it is to play without any crowd and that shouldn’t be an issue. However, Morgan is of the view that cricket should only resume when medical experts think is ‘OK’ to play behind closed doors. ALSO READ: Gautam Gambhir left fuming with obsession over MS Dhoni's 2011 World Cup final winning 6 "Sport can play a huge role in uplifting the world" "I've played county cricket for a long time and Test match cricket in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, and that's the exact same, I'd say," Morgan was quoted as saying by AFP. "From a very serious point of view, if medical experts advised us it was OK to play behind closed doors and it was on TV, I think that would be a huge step forward for the game. ALSO READ: 'Coronavirus going to leave more people bankrupt than dead', says Shoaib Akhtar "Sport can play a huge role in uplifting the world and people's perspective on things, although he added that cricket "in the grand scheme of things doesn't matter," the English skipper added. Morgan further praised Jos Buttler’s ‘incredibly kind gesture’ as the gloveman auctioned his ICC World Cup 2019 final jersey in a bid to raise funds for two hospitals treating COVID-19 patients.

Eoin Morgan ready to play behind closed doors, says 'sport can play a huge role in uplifting the world'