Live sport is slowly crawling its way back to life albeit with no fans in the stadiums. However, given the lockdown measures and travel restrictions in India, there are major doubts over the future of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, which stands suspended indefinitely. Matches with empty stands can be a tough take for players and even the fans, who are used to the jam-packed atmosphere during matches. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) CEO Venky Mysore has suggested an interesting idea to make sure there is some sort of crowd atmosphere in the stadium while also keeping the social-distancing norms in mind.&nbsp;

Mysore has said that organisers and stakeholders will face some challenges if IPL 2020 takes place later in the year. He said that with no crowd allowed in the stadium, revenues will take a major hit while adding technology will play a massive role in bringing some sort of crowd excitement into the matches. The KKR CEO has suggested the introduction of LED walls in the stands to allow fans to get involved in matches through VR sets.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sourav-ganguly-bcci-to-suffer-loss-to-the-tune-of-rs-4000-crore-if-ipl-2020-is-cancelled-wont-go-for-pay-cuts-298823" hreflang="en">Sourav Ganguly: BCCI to suffer loss to the tune of Rs 4000 crore if IPL 2020 is cancelled; won't go for pay cuts</a>

"We're definitely going to have some challenges," Mysore said during an ESPNcricinfo Stump Mic podcast. "If we're lucky enough that things will settle down or the tournament will take place later this year, it's clearly going to be in what they'll call as a stadium lockdown mode. Which means straightaway the ticket revenues are affected, your food and beverage revenue is affected, the merchandising sales at the stadium is affected. The challenge to us is how do you activate the sponsors? Are there ways in which you can compensate for this?"

"Technology is going to play a massive role," Mysore said. "I am just saying, if you're thinking out of the box - an LED wall in stands where, through social media, [fans] can virtually be present there. There are people who'll be reacting the same way if they were physically at the ground. People have said something about simulation too.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-players-may-start-training-in-coming-weeks-but-with-option-of-pulling-out-298724" hreflang="en">England players may start training in coming weeks but with option of "pulling out"</a>

Mysore, further cited examples of America football, as he discussed the importance of home and away crowds during a tournament. However, he is strictly against the idea of calling IPL a glorified domestic tournament because the world acknowledges the quality of the tournament and it is the best of the best.&nbsp;

"I lived in the US for several years and became an American football fan. Home games and away games are big events there because the crowd becomes your twelfth man. So what visiting teams used to do when they practised was blast the crowd noise on the speakers, just to get used it. The noise can be deafening in matches," he said.

"Why [IPL] has caught the imagination of the country and the world is the quality of the product. The best of the best - this is the pinnacle," Mysore said. "So I'm of the strong view that the format of the tournament should not be tinkered with. It should not be a glorified domestic tournament." 
&nbsp;

Live sport is slowly crawling its way back to life albeit with no fans in the stadiums. However, given the lockdown measures and travel restrictions in India, there are major doubts over the future of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, which stands suspended indefinitely.

Live sport is slowly crawling its way back to life albeit with no fans in the stadiums. However, given the lockdown measures and travel restrictions in India, there are major doubts over the future of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, which stands suspended indefinitely. Matches with empty stands can be a tough take for players and even the fans, who are used to the jam-packed atmosphere during matches. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) CEO Venky Mysore has suggested an interesting idea to make sure there is some sort of crowd atmosphere in the stadium while also keeping the social-distancing norms in mind. Mysore has said that organisers and stakeholders will face some challenges if IPL 2020 takes place later in the year. He said that with no crowd allowed in the stadium, revenues will take a major hit while adding technology will play a massive role in bringing some sort of crowd excitement into the matches. The KKR CEO has suggested the introduction of LED walls in the stands to allow fans to get involved in matches through VR sets. ALSO READ: Sourav Ganguly: BCCI to suffer loss to the tune of Rs 4000 crore if IPL 2020 is cancelled; won't go for pay cuts "We're definitely going to have some challenges," Mysore said during an ESPNcricinfo Stump Mic podcast. "If we're lucky enough that things will settle down or the tournament will take place later this year, it's clearly going to be in what they'll call as a stadium lockdown mode. Which means straightaway the ticket revenues are affected, your food and beverage revenue is affected, the merchandising sales at the stadium is affected. The challenge to us is how do you activate the sponsors? Are there ways in which you can compensate for this?" "Technology is going to play a massive role," Mysore said. "I am just saying, if you're thinking out of the box - an LED wall in stands where, through social media, [fans] can virtually be present there. There are people who'll be reacting the same way if they were physically at the ground. People have said something about simulation too.” ALSO READ: England players may start training in coming weeks but with option of "pulling out" Mysore, further cited examples of America football, as he discussed the importance of home and away crowds during a tournament. However, he is strictly against the idea of calling IPL a glorified domestic tournament because the world acknowledges the quality of the tournament and it is the best of the best. "I lived in the US for several years and became an American football fan. Home games and away games are big events there because the crowd becomes your twelfth man. So what visiting teams used to do when they practised was blast the crowd noise on the speakers, just to get used it. The noise can be deafening in matches," he said. "Why [IPL] has caught the imagination of the country and the world is the quality of the product. The best of the best - this is the pinnacle," Mysore said. "So I'm of the strong view that the format of the tournament should not be tinkered with. It should not be a glorified domestic tournament."

LED walls in stadiums with VR fans during IPL 2020? KKR CEO Venky Mysore comes up with unique idea

England players could tentatively start their outdoor skill-based training in the coming weeks with the ECB eyeing resumption of international cricket with a series against West Indies in July, said its director of cricket Ashley Giles.

However, as per health directive issued by government wing, the players -- across all sports in UK -- will have an option to "opt out" of training if they have any apprehensions of health risk.

"These are the very first tentative steps back to playing cricket," Giles was quoted as saying by ESPN Cricinfo, indicating that it could be done in controlled environment.

"This is individual-based training, so in many ways we should be able to get control of the environment so it's safer to go back to practice than it is to go to the supermarket. It should be that controlled an environment."

However, as per protocols issued by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), players will have an option.

"All athletes and support staff should be engaged in a 1:1 check-in prior to resumption of organised step one training to ensure they have understood the sport specific risks and mitigations, training site protocols in place, are physically and mentally well enough to engage in return to training and have actively 'opted in' to engaging in step one return to training," the document stated.

"It will be for individual sports to agree with their athletes any conditions for their return. All athletes and staff should also be clear on their route to 'opt out' of the organised training environment under Step One conditions at any time without unreasonable steps being taken against them consequently."

Even the ECB Director agreed that they have to create an environment where West Indies and Pakistan both feel safe while travelling to the United Kingdom.

"It can be quite scary but we are doing everything we possibly can to answer all of West Indies' questions. We will be speaking to Pakistan as well and mitigate as much risk as we possibly can. We can't mitigate all risk but as much as possible to get guys comfortable."

However, Giles assured that a complete risk assessment would be done before taking the plunge.

"We are also outside where we know the risks are far less. We will certainly carry out the right risk assessments at the venues. We will make sure all the staff are trained and that we have the right equipment, including PPE [personal protective equipment]. We will make sure everything is there for the guys to go about their business as safely as possible.

"Would I be confident if I were a West Indies player? I would be nervous, certainly, but we are all nervous, aren't we? I'm not making light of this but there are risks every time you go outside the house. We need to mitigate as many of the risks as we possibly can."

England players could tentatively start their outdoor skill-based training in the coming weeks with the ECB eyeing resumption of international cricket with a series against West Indies in July, said its director of cricket Ashley Giles.

England players could tentatively start their outdoor skill-based training in the coming weeks with the ECB eyeing resumption of international cricket with a series against West Indies in July, said its director of cricket Ashley Giles. However, as per health directive issued by government wing, the players -- across all sports in UK -- will have an option to "opt out" of training if they have any apprehensions of health risk. "These are the very first tentative steps back to playing cricket," Giles was quoted as saying by ESPN Cricinfo, indicating that it could be done in controlled environment. "This is individual-based training, so in many ways we should be able to get control of the environment so it's safer to go back to practice than it is to go to the supermarket. It should be that controlled an environment." However, as per protocols issued by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), players will have an option. "All athletes and support staff should be engaged in a 1:1 check-in prior to resumption of organised step one training to ensure they have understood the sport specific risks and mitigations, training site protocols in place, are physically and mentally well enough to engage in return to training and have actively 'opted in' to engaging in step one return to training," the document stated. "It will be for individual sports to agree with their athletes any conditions for their return. All athletes and staff should also be clear on their route to 'opt out' of the organised training environment under Step One conditions at any time without unreasonable steps being taken against them consequently." Even the ECB Director agreed that they have to create an environment where West Indies and Pakistan both feel safe while travelling to the United Kingdom. "It can be quite scary but we are doing everything we possibly can to answer all of West Indies' questions. We will be speaking to Pakistan as well and mitigate as much risk as we possibly can. We can't mitigate all risk but as much as possible to get guys comfortable." However, Giles assured that a complete risk assessment would be done before taking the plunge. "We are also outside where we know the risks are far less. We will certainly carry out the right risk assessments at the venues. We will make sure all the staff are trained and that we have the right equipment, including PPE [personal protective equipment]. We will make sure everything is there for the guys to go about their business as safely as possible. "Would I be confident if I were a West Indies player? I would be nervous, certainly, but we are all nervous, aren't we? I'm not making light of this but there are risks every time you go outside the house. We need to mitigate as many of the risks as we possibly can."

England players may start training in coming weeks but with option of "pulling out"

World Cup-winner and the chief of BCCI’s Cricket Advisory Committee, Madan Lal has heaped praise on Virat Kohli for changing the culture of the Indian cricket team as the former speedster said that no other captain has backed pacers like the current captain of the Men in Blue.&nbsp;

Lal, while speaking on show Pit Stop, said Sunil Gavaskar was the one who brought the culture of encouraging pace bowlers but the way Kohli has taken the charge in terms of building a world-class pace attack has been ‘unbelievable’

The former pacer, who took the wicket of Sir Vivian Richards in the 1983 World Cup final, further said that Kohli’s Team India is going to win more matches in the future because of the sheer depth in the pace department.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-proud-of-all-of-my-decisions-shane-warne-on-his-past-controversies-298670" hreflang="en">'Not proud of all of my decisions': Shane Warne on his past controversies</a>

"The way Virat Kohli encouraged the pacers, no other captain has done it. I can bet on this. When you have a good pace attack. Going back 15-20 years, India did not win these many matches. Now you're winning it because of the pace attack," Madan Lal said.

"Kohli knows that if his pace attack is good, he has more chances of helping the team win.

"I think this culture of encouraging pace bowlers was started by Sunil Gavaskar. The way Virat Kohli is doing it is unbelievable. He is on the right track with the pacers. You've got 4 or 5 bowlers who are going to win us a lot of matches in the near future."

Lal further said that people shouldn’t criticise Kohli’s aggression as Team India needed an attacking approach to turn the tables. He added that teams like Australia and England are worried about India but that was not the case in the past.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/setting-goals-for-each-series-rohit-sharma-reveals-his-success-mantra-298630" hreflang="en">'Setting goals for each series...'- Rohit Sharma reveals his success mantra</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

"It's very difficult to compare (1985 team and Kohli's team). This team, I think, is one of the best teams ever. Sourav [Ganguly], MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli now. Virat Kohli has changed the concept of the game. He cultivated the fitness culture and belief in your own ability.

"I like his aggression. A lot of people criticise him but I don't want to. We needed this. We used to say that Indians were not that aggressive. Now a player, who is our captain, has come with aggression, he should be appreciated.

"Sometimes, it goes over the line. But that's fine because it's a game. He wants to win every time.

"When we go to Australia, they are worried about India. When we go to England, they are worried," Lal said. 
&nbsp;

World Cup-winner and the chief of BCCI’s Cricket Advisory Committee, Madan Lal has heaped praise on Virat Kohli for changing the culture of the Indian cricket team as the former speedster said that no other captain has backed pacers like the current captain of the Men in Blue.

World Cup-winner and the chief of BCCI’s Cricket Advisory Committee, Madan Lal has heaped praise on Virat Kohli for changing the culture of the Indian cricket team as the former speedster said that no other captain has backed pacers like the current captain of the Men in Blue. Lal, while speaking on show Pit Stop, said Sunil Gavaskar was the one who brought the culture of encouraging pace bowlers but the way Kohli has taken the charge in terms of building a world-class pace attack has been ‘unbelievable’ The former pacer, who took the wicket of Sir Vivian Richards in the 1983 World Cup final, further said that Kohli’s Team India is going to win more matches in the future because of the sheer depth in the pace department. ALSO READ: 'Not proud of all of my decisions': Shane Warne on his past controversies "The way Virat Kohli encouraged the pacers, no other captain has done it. I can bet on this. When you have a good pace attack. Going back 15-20 years, India did not win these many matches. Now you're winning it because of the pace attack," Madan Lal said. "Kohli knows that if his pace attack is good, he has more chances of helping the team win. "I think this culture of encouraging pace bowlers was started by Sunil Gavaskar. The way Virat Kohli is doing it is unbelievable. He is on the right track with the pacers. You've got 4 or 5 bowlers who are going to win us a lot of matches in the near future." Lal further said that people shouldn’t criticise Kohli’s aggression as Team India needed an attacking approach to turn the tables. He added that teams like Australia and England are worried about India but that was not the case in the past. ALSO READ: 'Setting goals for each series...'- Rohit Sharma reveals his success mantra "It's very difficult to compare (1985 team and Kohli's team). This team, I think, is one of the best teams ever. Sourav [Ganguly], MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli now. Virat Kohli has changed the concept of the game. He cultivated the fitness culture and belief in your own ability. "I like his aggression. A lot of people criticise him but I don't want to. We needed this. We used to say that Indians were not that aggressive. Now a player, who is our captain, has come with aggression, he should be appreciated. "Sometimes, it goes over the line. But that's fine because it's a game. He wants to win every time. "When we go to Australia, they are worried about India. When we go to England, they are worried," Lal said.

Virat Kohli should not be criticised for his aggression: CAC chief Madan Lal

Former Australian cricketer and one of the legends of the game, Shane Warne’s career was a topsy-turvy ride. While the former leg-spinner ended being the second-highest wicket-taker in the history of Test cricket, Warne’s off-field controversies created headlines for all wrong reasons. Now, Warne has opened up on the dark phase of his career as he said he is not proud of all his decisions while adding he let his family down because of his actions in the past.&nbsp;

Warne was tested positive for a banned substance and even had war of words with former skipper Steve Waugh and Ricky Ponting. Additionally, his off-the-field life was marred with several alleged affairs as Warne kept on hitting headlines for his bowling and his off-field antics.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/faf-du-plessis-suggests-two-week-isolation-for-players-before-and-after-t20-world-cup-298636" hreflang="en">Faf du Plessis suggests two-week isolation for players before and after T20 World Cup</a>

“I’m not proud of all of my decisions. I made some horrible mistakes and choices with things. But I was always true to myself and that’s what I’m proud of today,” Warne said during the show ‘A Week with Warnie’.

“Some of the things were really hard to take. I let my family down, I embarrassed my children ... but that’s something I have to live with.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/setting-goals-for-each-series-rohit-sharma-reveals-his-success-mantra-298630" hreflang="en">'Setting goals for each series...'- Rohit Sharma reveals his success mantra</a>

“But for all of those bad choices I’ve also been very proud of all the good things I’ve done. I’ve done a lot of good things but sometimes people like to harp on about the bad things because it’s a better headline,” he added.

The leg-spin maestro further said that during the mid and late 90s he acted arrogantly which got him into trouble frequently. He further said that he used to get into trouble as he never thought about the consequences.&nbsp;

“I think some of my actions in the mid-90s and towards the end of the late 90s -- I acted in a sort of arrogant, pretty ordinary fashion all the time,” Warne said.

“I live in the moment so sometimes you don’t think about the consequences and that was probably most of my trouble. I didn’t think what the consequences were or what effect it would have on other people. 
“It was a selfish thing. I did what I wanted to do, and that got me into a bit of trouble.” 
&nbsp;

Former Australian cricketer and one of the legends of the game, Shane Warne’s career was a topsy-turvy ride. While the former leg-spinner ended being the second-highest wicket-taker in the history of Test cricket, Warne’s off-field controversies created headlines for all wrong reasons.

Former Australian cricketer and one of the legends of the game, Shane Warne’s career was a topsy-turvy ride. While the former leg-spinner ended being the second-highest wicket-taker in the history of Test cricket, Warne’s off-field controversies created headlines for all wrong reasons. Now, Warne has opened up on the dark phase of his career as he said he is not proud of all his decisions while adding he let his family down because of his actions in the past. Warne was tested positive for a banned substance and even had war of words with former skipper Steve Waugh and Ricky Ponting. Additionally, his off-the-field life was marred with several alleged affairs as Warne kept on hitting headlines for his bowling and his off-field antics. ALSO READ: Faf du Plessis suggests two-week isolation for players before and after T20 World Cup “I’m not proud of all of my decisions. I made some horrible mistakes and choices with things. But I was always true to myself and that’s what I’m proud of today,” Warne said during the show ‘A Week with Warnie’. “Some of the things were really hard to take. I let my family down, I embarrassed my children ... but that’s something I have to live with. ALSO READ: 'Setting goals for each series...'- Rohit Sharma reveals his success mantra “But for all of those bad choices I’ve also been very proud of all the good things I’ve done. I’ve done a lot of good things but sometimes people like to harp on about the bad things because it’s a better headline,” he added. The leg-spin maestro further said that during the mid and late 90s he acted arrogantly which got him into trouble frequently. He further said that he used to get into trouble as he never thought about the consequences. “I think some of my actions in the mid-90s and towards the end of the late 90s -- I acted in a sort of arrogant, pretty ordinary fashion all the time,” Warne said. “I live in the moment so sometimes you don’t think about the consequences and that was probably most of my trouble. I didn’t think what the consequences were or what effect it would have on other people. “It was a selfish thing. I did what I wanted to do, and that got me into a bit of trouble.”

'Not proud of all of my decisions': Shane Warne on his past controversies

Veteran South African batsman and former Proteas skipper Faf du Plessis has suggested a two-week isolation period, for players, before and after the ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled to be hosted by Australia in October-November 2020.&nbsp;

Cricket, like every other sport, has come to a screeching halt due to COVID-19 pandemic with uncertainty mounting over the future of the T20 World Cup.&nbsp;

In an interaction with Bangladesh’s ODI skipper Tamim Iqbal, du Plessis said international travel is going to be a major concern for the authorities especially while bringing players from Bangladesh, South Africa or India where the virus has spread rapidly.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/setting-goals-for-each-series-rohit-sharma-reveals-his-success-mantra-298630" hreflang="en">'Setting goals for each series...'- Rohit Sharma reveals his success mantra</a>

"I am not sure... Reading that travelling is going to be an issue for lot of countries and they are talking about December or January. Even if Australia is not affected like other countries, to get people from Bangladesh, South Africa or India where there is more danger, obviously it's a health risk to them," du Plessis said.

"But you can go in before the tournament (for) two weeks isolation and then play the tournament and afterwards two weeks isolation," said the former Proteas captain.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shoaib-akhtar-reacts-after-being-hilariously-trolled-by-icc-over-steve-smith-tweet-298604" hreflang="en">Shoaib Akhtar reacts after being hilariously trolled by ICC over Steve Smith tweet</a>

Du Plessis joked that he doesn’t know when South Africa will lift their travel restrictions while adding players can’t travel on boats.&nbsp;

"But I don't know when South Africa will open their travel ban because we can't go there like old days on boats," du Plessis said.

In March, South Africa’s three-match ODI series against India was called off due to the outbreak of the deadly virus. The COVID-19 has infected more than 44 lakh people worldwide while causing close to 3 lakh deaths. 
&nbsp;

Veteran South African batsman and former Proteas skipper Faf du Plessis has suggested a two-week isolation period, for players, before and after the ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled to be hosted by Australia in October-November 2020.

Veteran South African batsman and former Proteas skipper Faf du Plessis has suggested a two-week isolation period, for players, before and after the ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled to be hosted by Australia in October-November 2020. Cricket, like every other sport, has come to a screeching halt due to COVID-19 pandemic with uncertainty mounting over the future of the T20 World Cup. In an interaction with Bangladesh’s ODI skipper Tamim Iqbal, du Plessis said international travel is going to be a major concern for the authorities especially while bringing players from Bangladesh, South Africa or India where the virus has spread rapidly. ALSO READ: 'Setting goals for each series...'- Rohit Sharma reveals his success mantra "I am not sure... Reading that travelling is going to be an issue for lot of countries and they are talking about December or January. Even if Australia is not affected like other countries, to get people from Bangladesh, South Africa or India where there is more danger, obviously it's a health risk to them," du Plessis said. "But you can go in before the tournament (for) two weeks isolation and then play the tournament and afterwards two weeks isolation," said the former Proteas captain. ALSO READ: Shoaib Akhtar reacts after being hilariously trolled by ICC over Steve Smith tweet Du Plessis joked that he doesn’t know when South Africa will lift their travel restrictions while adding players can’t travel on boats. "But I don't know when South Africa will open their travel ban because we can't go there like old days on boats," du Plessis said. In March, South Africa’s three-match ODI series against India was called off due to the outbreak of the deadly virus. The COVID-19 has infected more than 44 lakh people worldwide while causing close to 3 lakh deaths.

Faf du Plessis suggests two-week isolation for players before and after T20 World Cup

With the COVID-19 pandemic and strict lockdown measures in India, sportspersons have been forced to train indoors while having plenty of time to introspect on their respective games. Indian opener Rohit Sharma, who was in a blistering run of form before the sporting calendar was wiped off, has revealed his secret mantra to success as the Hitman said that he doesn’t believe in long-term goals as it adds pressure and stress while adding that short-term goals help in maximizing the potential in a series or next few games.&nbsp;

Speaking of his personal goals, Rohit revealed that setting targets for each series or tournament helps him and he wants to follow the method in the future when cricket resumes.&nbsp;

“Over the years, I’ve realised that long-term goals won’t help you in any way, on the contrary, it will add to your pressure and stress. I have always focused on short term goals which are mainly the next few games in the upcoming 2-3 months who is it against, what can I do best,” Rohit said while speaking on Cricket Connected show.“Setting goals for each series or tournament helps me a lot and I will continue to follow this method in the future,” he added.

<img alt="Rohit Sharma" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a0db38dd-7b33-430b-8ae1-fe20f1b8a9f6" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1M59ED.jpg" />

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shoaib-akhtar-reacts-after-being-hilariously-trolled-by-icc-over-steve-smith-tweet-298604" hreflang="en">Shoaib Akhtar reacts after being hilariously trolled by ICC over Steve Smith tweet</a>

In the normal routine, ace cricketers would have been busy plying trade in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 only to see it getting indefinitely postponed due to COVID-19 pandemic.

Rohit is of the view that with uncertainty surrounding which tournament will be played once the lockdown measures are eased, players need to analyse the situation and adapt to whatever decision is made by the cricket bodies. &nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/worst-days-of-indian-cricket-harbhajan-singh-slams-greg-chappell-for-taking-credit-for-dhonis-finishing-skills-298580" hreflang="en">'Worst days of Indian cricket': Harbhajan Singh slams Greg Chappell for taking credit for Dhoni's finishing skills</a>

“In the upcoming years, I hope we get the opportunity to play cricket, as we don’t know when we will play again,” said the 32-year-old.

“When we resume playing cricket, we will have to see what’s coming our way - whether its T20 World Cup or IPL,” Rohit further said.

“We even had a big bilateral series against Australia planned – we will have to analyse and see who we are playing against,” he added. 
&nbsp;

With the COVID-19 pandemic and strict lockdown measures in India, sportspersons have been forced to train indoors while having plenty of time to introspect on their respective games.

With the COVID-19 pandemic and strict lockdown measures in India, sportspersons have been forced to train indoors while having plenty of time to introspect on their respective games. Indian opener Rohit Sharma, who was in a blistering run of form before the sporting calendar was wiped off, has revealed his secret mantra to success as the Hitman said that he doesn’t believe in long-term goals as it adds pressure and stress while adding that short-term goals help in maximizing the potential in a series or next few games. Speaking of his personal goals, Rohit revealed that setting targets for each series or tournament helps him and he wants to follow the method in the future when cricket resumes. “Over the years, I’ve realised that long-term goals won’t help you in any way, on the contrary, it will add to your pressure and stress. I have always focused on short term goals which are mainly the next few games in the upcoming 2-3 months who is it against, what can I do best,” Rohit said while speaking on Cricket Connected show.“Setting goals for each series or tournament helps me a lot and I will continue to follow this method in the future,” he added. ALSO READ: Shoaib Akhtar reacts after being hilariously trolled by ICC over Steve Smith tweet In the normal routine, ace cricketers would have been busy plying trade in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 only to see it getting indefinitely postponed due to COVID-19 pandemic. Rohit is of the view that with uncertainty surrounding which tournament will be played once the lockdown measures are eased, players need to analyse the situation and adapt to whatever decision is made by the cricket bodies. ALSO READ: 'Worst days of Indian cricket': Harbhajan Singh slams Greg Chappell for taking credit for Dhoni's finishing skills “In the upcoming years, I hope we get the opportunity to play cricket, as we don’t know when we will play again,” said the 32-year-old. “When we resume playing cricket, we will have to see what’s coming our way - whether its T20 World Cup or IPL,” Rohit further said. “We even had a big bilateral series against Australia planned – we will have to analyse and see who we are playing against,” he added.

'Setting goals for each series...'- Rohit Sharma reveals his success mantra

Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar has reacted to International Cricket Council’s (ICC) brutal trolling of him as the Rawalpindi Express took to social media platform Twitter to slam the world governing body for throwing neutrality out of the window.&nbsp;

A few days back, ICC had posted a few photographs indicating at battle of past and present and it had Akhtar facing off against Australian maestro Steve Smith to which the former Pakistan cricketer said it would take him minutes to dismiss Smith as he would bowl three hurting bouncers before dismissing the swashbuckling Aussie batsman in the fourth delivery.&nbsp;

"Even today, 3 hurting bouncers and I can dismiss @stevesmith49 on the 4th ball. Lol," Akhtar had tweeted.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://t.co/IHqHevy35e">pic.twitter.com/IHqHevy35e</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1260104021060304896?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
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While fans made a mockery of Akhtar for his overconfidence or sarcasm, ICC took a hilarious jibe at the Rawalpindi Express.&nbsp;

Reverting to ICC’s trolling, Akhtar wrote: “A symbolic tweet, how ICC has thrown neutrality out of the window. Basically this is how the state of affairs are run there :)”

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A symbolic tweet, how ICC has thrown neutrality out of the window. 
Basically this is how the state of affairs are run there :) <a href="https://t.co/OEoJx30lXt">https://t.co/OEoJx30lXt</a>
— Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) <a href="https://twitter.com/shoaib100mph/status/1260521515898077185?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Dear <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@icc</a>, find a new meme or Emoji. Sorry i couldn't find any, only found some real videos <a href="https://t.co/eYID4ZXTvT">pic.twitter.com/eYID4ZXTvT</a>
— Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) <a href="https://twitter.com/shoaib100mph/status/1260589706552717314?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Akhtar has been pretty vocal about all things related to cricket and has been active on social media platforms to share his views. While most of his videos are linked to Indian cricket in some way or another, Akhtar is also a big critic of Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and how cricket is being managed in Pakistan.&nbsp;

The former speedster is facing a legal lawsuit for his comments against PCB’s legal advisor Tafazzul Rizvi after Akhtar slammed the lawyer for his ‘incompetency’. Akhtar had slammed the defamation notice by claiming it was legally faulty.

 
&nbsp;

Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar has reacted to International Cricket Council’s (ICC) brutal trolling of him as the Rawalpindi Express took to social media platform Twitter to slam the world governing body for throwing neutrality out of the window.

Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar has reacted to International Cricket Council’s (ICC) brutal trolling of him as the Rawalpindi Express took to social media platform Twitter to slam the world governing body for throwing neutrality out of the window. A few days back, ICC had posted a few photographs indicating at battle of past and present and it had Akhtar facing off against Australian maestro Steve Smith to which the former Pakistan cricketer said it would take him minutes to dismiss Smith as he would bowl three hurting bouncers before dismissing the swashbuckling Aussie batsman in the fourth delivery. "Even today, 3 hurting bouncers and I can dismiss @stevesmith49 on the 4th ball. Lol," Akhtar had tweeted. pic.twitter.com/IHqHevy35e — ICC (@ICC) May 12, 2020 × While fans made a mockery of Akhtar for his overconfidence or sarcasm, ICC took a hilarious jibe at the Rawalpindi Express. Reverting to ICC’s trolling, Akhtar wrote: “A symbolic tweet, how ICC has thrown neutrality out of the window. Basically this is how the state of affairs are run there :)” A symbolic tweet, how ICC has thrown neutrality out of the window. Basically this is how the state of affairs are run there :) https://t.co/OEoJx30lXt — Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) May 13, 2020 × Dear @icc, find a new meme or Emoji. Sorry i couldn't find any, only found some real videos pic.twitter.com/eYID4ZXTvT — Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) May 13, 2020 × Akhtar has been pretty vocal about all things related to cricket and has been active on social media platforms to share his views. While most of his videos are linked to Indian cricket in some way or another, Akhtar is also a big critic of Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and how cricket is being managed in Pakistan. The former speedster is facing a legal lawsuit for his comments against PCB’s legal advisor Tafazzul Rizvi after Akhtar slammed the lawyer for his ‘incompetency’. Akhtar had slammed the defamation notice by claiming it was legally faulty.

Shoaib Akhtar reacts after being hilariously trolled by ICC over Steve Smith tweet

Chris Gayle is likely to be penalised for his recent outburst against Ramnaresh Sarwan, said Cricket West Indies (CWI) chief Ricky Skerritt and hoped that it doesn't end the maverick big-hitter's "outstanding career".

The 40-year-old Gayle, who was signed by St Lucia Zouks for the 2020 season of the Caribbean Premier League, called his former teammate "worse than coronavirus", accusing the Guyanese of plotting his exit from CPL outfit Jamaica Tallawahs.

Skerritt said though it is an "interpersonal battle", he doesn't expect the controversy to die down so easily.

"I'm sure there is some kind of discussion taking place at the moment between Chris and the CPL because the CPL has rules which will come into view here because Chris is signed into a franchise team," Skerrit was quoted as saying by 'Jamaica-Gleaner'.

"I hope it doesn't become a world matter in terms of the career of Mr Gayle, because it's been a very outstanding career and I really wouldn't want to see it brought to an end by this event," he added.

The opener had claimed that Sarwan was behind his ouster as the former middle-order batsman wanted to take control of the franchise.

"Sarwan, you are worse than the coronavirus right now," Gayle had said in a video uploaded on his YouTube channel.

"What transpired with the Tallawahs, you have a big part to play because you and the owner are like this (very close)." 
Skerritt&nbsp;said it was an unfortunate incident and hoped it doesn't have an impact on Gayle's career.

"It's certainly not something that I enjoyed looking at or reading about ?. Personally, I think that was unfortunate, but the process will have to take its course and that process will get triggered because he is a contracted player in the CPL within the West Indies league,? Skerritt said.

"If a player is contracted to a club or a franchise or to Cricket West Indies? that kind of behaviour brings that contract into some level of disrepute," he added.

Chris Gayle is likely to be penalised for his recent outburst against Ramnaresh Sarwan, said Cricket West Indies (CWI) chief Ricky Skerritt and hoped that it doesn't end the maverick big-hitter's "outstanding career".

Chris Gayle is likely to be penalised for his recent outburst against Ramnaresh Sarwan, said Cricket West Indies (CWI) chief Ricky Skerritt and hoped that it doesn't end the maverick big-hitter's "outstanding career". The 40-year-old Gayle, who was signed by St Lucia Zouks for the 2020 season of the Caribbean Premier League, called his former teammate "worse than coronavirus", accusing the Guyanese of plotting his exit from CPL outfit Jamaica Tallawahs. Skerritt said though it is an "interpersonal battle", he doesn't expect the controversy to die down so easily. "I'm sure there is some kind of discussion taking place at the moment between Chris and the CPL because the CPL has rules which will come into view here because Chris is signed into a franchise team," Skerrit was quoted as saying by 'Jamaica-Gleaner'. "I hope it doesn't become a world matter in terms of the career of Mr Gayle, because it's been a very outstanding career and I really wouldn't want to see it brought to an end by this event," he added. The opener had claimed that Sarwan was behind his ouster as the former middle-order batsman wanted to take control of the franchise. "Sarwan, you are worse than the coronavirus right now," Gayle had said in a video uploaded on his YouTube channel. "What transpired with the Tallawahs, you have a big part to play because you and the owner are like this (very close)." Skerritt said it was an unfortunate incident and hoped it doesn't have an impact on Gayle's career. "It's certainly not something that I enjoyed looking at or reading about ?. Personally, I think that was unfortunate, but the process will have to take its course and that process will get triggered because he is a contracted player in the CPL within the West Indies league,? Skerritt said. "If a player is contracted to a club or a franchise or to Cricket West Indies? that kind of behaviour brings that contract into some level of disrepute," he added.

Chris Gayle likely to be penalised for outburst against Sarwan, hope it doesn't end his career: CWI chief

The Pakistan Cricket Board on Wednesday announced Babar Azam as limited-overs captain of the national side whereas Azhar Ali will continue to captain Pakistan in Test cricket. Babar, who was already the skipper of T20I side, replaced Sarfaraz Ahmed as the ODI captain with Pakistan scheduled to play six ODIs, 20 T20Is apart from the Asia Cup and ICC T20 World Cup this season.&nbsp;

"I want to congratulate Azhar Ali and Babar Azam for getting captaincy extensions," chief selector and head coach Misbah-ul-Haq said in a PCB statement.

"This is absolutely the right decision as they also require certainty and clarity on their future roles. I am sure they will now start looking to the future and start planning so that they can build sides that can perform at the expected levels."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jasprit-bumrah-top-contender-for-bccis-arjuna-award-nomination-shikhar-dhawan-could-be-second-name-298443" hreflang="en">Jasprit Bumrah top contender for BCCI's Arjuna award nomination, Shikhar Dhawan could be second name</a>

The PCB further announced an 18-player men’s central contract list for the 2020-21 season coming into effect from July 1.

Some of the big names in Hassan Ali, Mohammad Amir and Wahab Riaz were missing from the central contract list whereas the likes of Imam-ul-Haq, Sarfaraz Ahmed and Yasir Shah have been demoted one category each. Naseem Shah and Iftikhar Ahmad were the two new names in the contract list while Shaheen Shah Afridi was promoted to Category A.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shahid-afridi-visits-shri-lakshmi-narayan-temple-in-pakistan-distributes-food-items-to-needy-298427" hreflang="en">Shahid Afridi visits Shri Lakshmi Narayan temple in Pakistan, distributes food items to needy</a>

"The selectors have made the tough decisions to leave out Amir, Hasan and Wahab but considering Hasan missed most of the season due to an injury and Amir and Wahab decided to focus on white-ball cricket, this was the right move," Misbah said.

"However, Amir and Wahab are senior and experienced bowlers and they remain in contention as we believe they can still contribute to the Pakistan men's cricket team and also mentor our young battery of fast bowlers." 
Haider Ali, Haris Rauf and Mohammad Hasnain were named in PCB’s new Emerging Players’ &nbsp;Category.

"I am thankful to the PCB Chairman for supporting our recommendation to give emerging player contracts to Haider, Haris and

Hasnain. This is part of our forward-looking strategy and investing in the future, while also encouraging potential future national team players," Misbah said.

<h2>PCB Men's Central Contract List for 2020-21:</h2>

Category A: Azhar Ali, Babar Azam, Shaheen Shah Afridi.

Category B: Abid Ali, Asad Shafiq, Haris Sohail, Mohammad Abbas, Mohammad Rizwan, Sarfaraz Ahmed, Shadab Khan, Shan Masood, Yasir Shah.

Category C: Fakhar Zaman, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Imam-ul-Haq, Naseem Shah, Usman Shinwari.

Emerging Players' Category: Haider Ali, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Hasnain.&nbsp;

The Pakistan Cricket Board on Wednesday announced Babar Azam as limited-overs captain of the national side whereas Azhar Ali will continue to captain Pakistan in Test cricket.

The Pakistan Cricket Board on Wednesday announced Babar Azam as limited-overs captain of the national side whereas Azhar Ali will continue to captain Pakistan in Test cricket. Babar, who was already the skipper of T20I side, replaced Sarfaraz Ahmed as the ODI captain with Pakistan scheduled to play six ODIs, 20 T20Is apart from the Asia Cup and ICC T20 World Cup this season. "I want to congratulate Azhar Ali and Babar Azam for getting captaincy extensions," chief selector and head coach Misbah-ul-Haq said in a PCB statement. "This is absolutely the right decision as they also require certainty and clarity on their future roles. I am sure they will now start looking to the future and start planning so that they can build sides that can perform at the expected levels." ALSO READ: Jasprit Bumrah top contender for BCCI's Arjuna award nomination, Shikhar Dhawan could be second name The PCB further announced an 18-player men’s central contract list for the 2020-21 season coming into effect from July 1. Some of the big names in Hassan Ali, Mohammad Amir and Wahab Riaz were missing from the central contract list whereas the likes of Imam-ul-Haq, Sarfaraz Ahmed and Yasir Shah have been demoted one category each. Naseem Shah and Iftikhar Ahmad were the two new names in the contract list while Shaheen Shah Afridi was promoted to Category A. ALSO READ: Shahid Afridi visits Shri Lakshmi Narayan temple in Pakistan, distributes food items to needy "The selectors have made the tough decisions to leave out Amir, Hasan and Wahab but considering Hasan missed most of the season due to an injury and Amir and Wahab decided to focus on white-ball cricket, this was the right move," Misbah said. "However, Amir and Wahab are senior and experienced bowlers and they remain in contention as we believe they can still contribute to the Pakistan men's cricket team and also mentor our young battery of fast bowlers." Haider Ali, Haris Rauf and Mohammad Hasnain were named in PCB’s new Emerging Players’ Category. "I am thankful to the PCB Chairman for supporting our recommendation to give emerging player contracts to Haider, Haris and Hasnain. This is part of our forward-looking strategy and investing in the future, while also encouraging potential future national team players," Misbah said. PCB Men's Central Contract List for 2020-21: Category A: Azhar Ali, Babar Azam, Shaheen Shah Afridi. Category B: Abid Ali, Asad Shafiq, Haris Sohail, Mohammad Abbas, Mohammad Rizwan, Sarfaraz Ahmed, Shadab Khan, Shan Masood, Yasir Shah. Category C: Fakhar Zaman, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Imam-ul-Haq, Naseem Shah, Usman Shinwari. Emerging Players' Category: Haider Ali, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Hasnain.

Babar Azam appointed Pakistan's ODI skipper, Azhar Ali to continue as Test captain

India's pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah is expected to be the BCCI nomination for the prestigious Arjuna Award this year after missing out on seniority to Ravindra Jadeja in 2019.

The BCCI office-bearers are expected to zero in on nominations for the men's and women's categories later this month but the Gujarat pacer's stupendous performance in the last four years makes him the most worthy candidate.

If BCCI decides to send multiple names in the men's category, senior opener Shikhar Dhawan could also be preferred as he missed out in 2018 despite the Board sending his nomination.

"Last year, we had sent three names in men's section -- Bumrah, Ravindra Jadeja and Mohammed Shami," a BCCI source told PTI.

Bumrah lost out as he had completed only two years in international cricket while the criteria of selection requires performance of at least three years at the highest level.

"That's why Bumrah, who completed three years of international cricket last year, missed out to Jadeja, who is senior as well as a consistent performer for many years," the source added.

The 26-year-old has 68 wickets from 14 Tests, 104 wickets from 64 ODIs and 59 wickets from 50 T20Is, making for a phenomenal four years in India colours.

"He certainly has the best credentials. He was ICC's No 1 ranked ODI bowler. He is the only Asian bowler to pick up five-wicket hauls in South Africa, England, Australia and West Indies," the source said.

It is highly unlikely that BCCI will send Mohammed Shami's name this time around as the police case filed against him by his estranged wife alleging domestic violence and adultery means that he won't be eligible.

In case of Dhawan, his seniority is a factor as all his contemporaries (Virat Kohli, Ravichandran Ashwin, Rohit Sharma, Ajinkya Rahane, Cheteshwar Pujara and Jadeja) have got the award.

Dhawan was, however, out of action for a considerable period last year after sustaining multiple injuries.

But a former BCCI office-bearer said that Dhawan's seniority cannot be ignored.

"In 2018, we had sent Dhawan's name for nomination but only Smriti (Mandhana) got the award. So BCCI can send both Bumrah and Dhawan's names," he said.

In the women's section, all-rounder Deepti Sharma, for her consistent show over the past four years including India's highest ODI score of 188, is one of the names along with pacer Shikha Pandey, who is also a Squadron Leader with the Indian Airforce.

India's pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah is expected to be the BCCI nomination for the prestigious Arjuna Award this year after missing out on seniority to Ravindra Jadeja in 2019.

India's pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah is expected to be the BCCI nomination for the prestigious Arjuna Award this year after missing out on seniority to Ravindra Jadeja in 2019. The BCCI office-bearers are expected to zero in on nominations for the men's and women's categories later this month but the Gujarat pacer's stupendous performance in the last four years makes him the most worthy candidate. If BCCI decides to send multiple names in the men's category, senior opener Shikhar Dhawan could also be preferred as he missed out in 2018 despite the Board sending his nomination. "Last year, we had sent three names in men's section -- Bumrah, Ravindra Jadeja and Mohammed Shami," a BCCI source told PTI. Bumrah lost out as he had completed only two years in international cricket while the criteria of selection requires performance of at least three years at the highest level. "That's why Bumrah, who completed three years of international cricket last year, missed out to Jadeja, who is senior as well as a consistent performer for many years," the source added. The 26-year-old has 68 wickets from 14 Tests, 104 wickets from 64 ODIs and 59 wickets from 50 T20Is, making for a phenomenal four years in India colours. "He certainly has the best credentials. He was ICC's No 1 ranked ODI bowler. He is the only Asian bowler to pick up five-wicket hauls in South Africa, England, Australia and West Indies," the source said. It is highly unlikely that BCCI will send Mohammed Shami's name this time around as the police case filed against him by his estranged wife alleging domestic violence and adultery means that he won't be eligible. In case of Dhawan, his seniority is a factor as all his contemporaries (Virat Kohli, Ravichandran Ashwin, Rohit Sharma, Ajinkya Rahane, Cheteshwar Pujara and Jadeja) have got the award. Dhawan was, however, out of action for a considerable period last year after sustaining multiple injuries. But a former BCCI office-bearer said that Dhawan's seniority cannot be ignored. "In 2018, we had sent Dhawan's name for nomination but only Smriti (Mandhana) got the award. So BCCI can send both Bumrah and Dhawan's names," he said. In the women's section, all-rounder Deepti Sharma, for her consistent show over the past four years including India's highest ODI score of 188, is one of the names along with pacer Shikha Pandey, who is also a Squadron Leader with the Indian Airforce.

Jasprit Bumrah top contender for BCCI's Arjuna award nomination, Shikhar Dhawan could be second name

The Supreme Court Wednesday sought response from Sanjeev Chawla, alleged bookie and key accused in one of the cricket's biggest match-fixing scandals that involved former South African captain Hansie Cronje, on a plea filed by Delhi Police challenging the bail granted to him.

A bench of Chief Justice S A Bobde and Justice L Nageswara Rao was hearing through video-conferencing an appeal filed by the police challenging the May 6 order of the Delhi High Court which had upheld a trial court's decision granting bail to Chawla.

"Issue notice returnable two weeks," the bench said in its order.

Chawla, who was extradited from London in February, was granted bail by a trial court here on April 30 on furnishing a personal bond of Rs 2 lakh with two sureties of the like amount.

According to the police, Chawla was allegedly involved in fixing of five matches and Cronje, who died in a plane crash in 2002, was also involved.

The police alleged that Chawla played a key role in conspiring with Cronje to fix a South African tour to India in February-March, 2000.

Chawla has denied the allegations.

The British court documents say that Chawla is a Delhi-born businessman who moved to the United Kingdom on a business visa in 1996 and continued to make trips to India.

n its May 6 order, the high court said that when the scenario of a trial taking place was "stark", the liberty of a person "cannot be left in limbo" on the belief that he was a flight risk.

The high court, while dismissing the police's plea challenging the bail granted to Chawla in the case in which FIR was lodged 20 years ago, had said that instant case highlights the need for use of technology, like GPS tracking system used in USA, to track under-trials in cases where there is a fear that they may flee.

Before the high court, the police had sought cancellation of bail primarily on the ground of gravity of offence and also that guidelines for release in view of the COVID-19 pandemic were not to be applied in the instant case as was done by the trial court. 
Chawla's counsel had opposed the plea in the high court and said there was no evidence to suggest that Chawla was likely to abscond.

The Supreme Court Wednesday sought response from Sanjeev Chawla, alleged bookie and key accused in one of the cricket's biggest match-fixing scandals that involved former South African captain Hansie Cronje, on a plea filed by Delhi Police challenging the bail granted to him.

The Supreme Court Wednesday sought response from Sanjeev Chawla, alleged bookie and key accused in one of the cricket's biggest match-fixing scandals that involved former South African captain Hansie Cronje, on a plea filed by Delhi Police challenging the bail granted to him. A bench of Chief Justice S A Bobde and Justice L Nageswara Rao was hearing through video-conferencing an appeal filed by the police challenging the May 6 order of the Delhi High Court which had upheld a trial court's decision granting bail to Chawla. "Issue notice returnable two weeks," the bench said in its order. Chawla, who was extradited from London in February, was granted bail by a trial court here on April 30 on furnishing a personal bond of Rs 2 lakh with two sureties of the like amount. According to the police, Chawla was allegedly involved in fixing of five matches and Cronje, who died in a plane crash in 2002, was also involved. The police alleged that Chawla played a key role in conspiring with Cronje to fix a South African tour to India in February-March, 2000. Chawla has denied the allegations. The British court documents say that Chawla is a Delhi-born businessman who moved to the United Kingdom on a business visa in 1996 and continued to make trips to India. n its May 6 order, the high court said that when the scenario of a trial taking place was "stark", the liberty of a person "cannot be left in limbo" on the belief that he was a flight risk. The high court, while dismissing the police's plea challenging the bail granted to Chawla in the case in which FIR was lodged 20 years ago, had said that instant case highlights the need for use of technology, like GPS tracking system used in USA, to track under-trials in cases where there is a fear that they may flee. Before the high court, the police had sought cancellation of bail primarily on the ground of gravity of offence and also that guidelines for release in view of the COVID-19 pandemic were not to be applied in the instant case as was done by the trial court. Chawla's counsel had opposed the plea in the high court and said there was no evidence to suggest that Chawla was likely to abscond.

Match fixing scandal: SC notice to Sanjeev Chawla on plea challenging bail granted to him

Former Pakistan skipper Shahid Afridi has been one of the sports personalities, who has been working tirelessly to help Pakistan combat the dreaded COVID-19 pandemic. Afridi has been visiting rural areas of Pakistan in a bid to distribute food and other essential items to the needy with the help of Shahid Afridi Foundation.

As part of his noble initiative, Afridi visited a Hindu temple in Pakistan and distributed essential food items. Afridi took to social media platform Twitter to post a few photographs as he visited Shri Lakshmi Narayan temple and the former all-rounder was joined by legendary Pakistani squad player Jahangir Khan.

“We are in it together and we shall prevail together. Unity is our strength. Visited Sri Lakshmi Narain mandir along with @JK555squash President @SAFoundationN to deliver essential food items. Ensuring #HopeNotOut,” the former Pakistan captain tweeted.&nbsp;

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We are in it together and we shall prevail together. Unity is our strength. Visited Sri Lakshmi Narain mandir along with <a href="https://twitter.com/JK555squash?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JK555squash</a> President <a href="https://twitter.com/SAFoundationN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SAFoundationN</a> to deliver essential food items. 
Ensuring <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HopeNotOut?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HopeNotOut</a> 
پاکستان بھر تک, آپ کے گھر تک 
<a href="https://t.co/KGY2Gs2zUr">https://t.co/KGY2Gs2zUr</a> <a href="https://t.co/1VpOhSkc8L">pic.twitter.com/1VpOhSkc8L</a>
— Shahid Afridi (@SAfridiOfficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/SAfridiOfficial/status/1259461825860702208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, Afridi had announced that to reach out as many affected areas in Pakistan, brands can avail his services for free but in return, he would need ration to help the needy during these testing times.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-most-powerful-batsman-and-best-finisher-cricket-has-ever-seen-greg-chappell-298399" hreflang="en">MS Dhoni 'most powerful batsman' and 'best finisher' cricket has ever seen: Greg Chappell</a>

In order to reach out to maximum affected areas in Pakistan, Afridi earlier launched a unique initiative where he announced that while the brands could avail his services for free, he would need ration in return to help the needy.

“I hope all of you are doing well. This is a different message from me for all the brands I have worked with in the past, different commercials. It was for my own benefit and they also utilised me for marketing purposes. Now, I am offering my services to all those brands for the sake of my country. As you all are aware, the food drive is on and we are trying to maximise it by covering as many areas as we can. Pakistan is a big country and there are many areas where people are still waiting for ration to reach their houses. I don’t want anything in return from commercial purpose, I am available for social media activities as well as for TV. I don’t want money from you but give me ration which I can provide to people in Pakistan,” Afridi had said in a video.

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I have been lucky to have worked with many brands for ads/promotion. Now working first hand with the ones suffering during <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID2019</a> I have a proposal to al brands: I will work with brands for free personally - I just want ration and funds in return <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DonateKaroNa?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DonateKaroNa</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SAFoundationN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SAFoundationN</a> <a href="https://t.co/UI43gkBTmo">pic.twitter.com/UI43gkBTmo</a>
— Shahid Afridi (@SAfridiOfficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/SAfridiOfficial/status/1249680900641771521?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/yuvraj-singh-questions-ravi-shastris-go-out-and-play-your-game-approach-298388" hreflang="en">Yuvraj Singh questions Ravi Shastri's ‘go out and play your game' approach</a>

Former Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singh and veteran Harbhajan Singh had also contributed to the Shahid Afridi Foundation earlier.&nbsp;

Pakistan is one of the worst affected countries with over 34,000 COVID-19 positive cases. The Ministry of National Health Services of Pakistan on Tuesday said that 2,255 cases were confirmed positive after 11,848 tests were conducted.

Former Pakistan skipper Shahid Afridi has been one of the sports personalities, who has been working tirelessly to help Pakistan combat the dreaded COVID-19 pandemic.

Former Pakistan skipper Shahid Afridi has been one of the sports personalities, who has been working tirelessly to help Pakistan combat the dreaded COVID-19 pandemic. Afridi has been visiting rural areas of Pakistan in a bid to distribute food and other essential items to the needy with the help of Shahid Afridi Foundation. As part of his noble initiative, Afridi visited a Hindu temple in Pakistan and distributed essential food items. Afridi took to social media platform Twitter to post a few photographs as he visited Shri Lakshmi Narayan temple and the former all-rounder was joined by legendary Pakistani squad player Jahangir Khan. “We are in it together and we shall prevail together. Unity is our strength. Visited Sri Lakshmi Narain mandir along with @JK555squash President @SAFoundationN to deliver essential food items. Ensuring #HopeNotOut,” the former Pakistan captain tweeted. We are in it together and we shall prevail together. Unity is our strength. Visited Sri Lakshmi Narain mandir along with @JK555squash President @SAFoundationN to deliver essential food items. Ensuring #HopeNotOut پاکستان بھر تک, آپ کے گھر تک https://t.co/KGY2Gs2zUr pic.twitter.com/1VpOhSkc8L — Shahid Afridi (@SAfridiOfficial) May 10, 2020 × Earlier, Afridi had announced that to reach out as many affected areas in Pakistan, brands can avail his services for free but in return, he would need ration to help the needy during these testing times. ALSO READ: MS Dhoni 'most powerful batsman' and 'best finisher' cricket has ever seen: Greg Chappell In order to reach out to maximum affected areas in Pakistan, Afridi earlier launched a unique initiative where he announced that while the brands could avail his services for free, he would need ration in return to help the needy. “I hope all of you are doing well. This is a different message from me for all the brands I have worked with in the past, different commercials. It was for my own benefit and they also utilised me for marketing purposes. Now, I am offering my services to all those brands for the sake of my country. As you all are aware, the food drive is on and we are trying to maximise it by covering as many areas as we can. Pakistan is a big country and there are many areas where people are still waiting for ration to reach their houses. I don’t want anything in return from commercial purpose, I am available for social media activities as well as for TV. I don’t want money from you but give me ration which I can provide to people in Pakistan,” Afridi had said in a video. I have been lucky to have worked with many brands for ads/promotion. Now working first hand with the ones suffering during #COVID2019 I have a proposal to al brands: I will work with brands for free personally - I just want ration and funds in return #DonateKaroNa @SAFoundationN pic.twitter.com/UI43gkBTmo — Shahid Afridi (@SAfridiOfficial) April 13, 2020 × ALSO READ: Yuvraj Singh questions Ravi Shastri's ‘go out and play your game' approach Former Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singh and veteran Harbhajan Singh had also contributed to the Shahid Afridi Foundation earlier. Pakistan is one of the worst affected countries with over 34,000 COVID-19 positive cases. The Ministry of National Health Services of Pakistan on Tuesday said that 2,255 cases were confirmed positive after 11,848 tests were conducted.

Shahid Afridi visits Shri Lakshmi Narayan temple in Pakistan, distributes food items to needy

Former Australian captain Greg Chappell’s tenure as the head coach of Indian cricket team may have been marred by controversies but the veteran remains highly impressed with MS Dhoni, who made his senior debut under his coaching. While disagreements with players became a common trend under Chappell, Team India went onto win 17 matches on the bounce while chasing with Dhoni playing a crucial role in the transition.

Chappell has said that the young Dhoni was the most exciting cricketer in India at that time and the ‘most powerful batsman’ he has ever seen. Chappell revealed that he was left awestruck when he saw Dhoni batting for the first time.&nbsp;

"I vividly remember that I was left awestruck when I saw him batting for the first time. He was definitely the most exciting cricketer in India at that time. He used to hit the ball from the most unusual positions. He is the most powerful batsman I have ever seen," Chappell said during a chat session on Facebook.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/yuvraj-singh-questions-ravi-shastris-go-out-and-play-your-game-approach-298388" hreflang="en">Yuvraj Singh questions Ravi Shastri's ‘go out and play your game' approach</a>

Chappell further revealed how Dhoni played a contrasting knock against Sri Lanka following his blistering 183 and how he asked the wicketkeeper-batsman to play along the ground and take Team India over the winning line. &nbsp;Chappell added that Dhoni is the ‘best finisher’ the game has ever seen.&nbsp;

"I remember his knock of 183 against Sri Lanka and how he tore them apart. It was power hitting at its very best. The next match was in Pune. I asked MS, 'why don't you play along the ground more instead of trying to hit every ball to the boundary'. We were chasing 260 odd and were in a good position and Dhoni was playing a contrasting inning to the one he had played just a couple of days before.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csk-reject-playing-ipl-2020-with-only-indian-players-says-it-will-be-similar-to-syed-mushtaq-ali-trophy-298286" hreflang="en">CSK reject playing IPL 2020 with only Indian players, says it will be similar to Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy</a>

"We still needed 20 runs to win and Dhoni asked me, through 12th man RP Singh if he could hit sixes. I told him not until the target was in single digit. When we needed six runs to win, he finished the game with a six," he said.

"I always used to challenge him if he could finish the game. There used to be a booming smile on his face, whenever he used to score the winning runs. He is definitely the best finisher the game has ever seen," he signed off.

Apart from becoming a chasing side in ODIs, Team India also won their maiden Test series in the West Indies after 35 years. 
&nbsp;

Former Australian captain Greg Chappell’s tenure as the head coach of Indian cricket team may have been marred by controversies but the veteran remains highly impressed with MS Dhoni, who made his senior debut under his coaching.

Former Australian captain Greg Chappell’s tenure as the head coach of Indian cricket team may have been marred by controversies but the veteran remains highly impressed with MS Dhoni, who made his senior debut under his coaching. While disagreements with players became a common trend under Chappell, Team India went onto win 17 matches on the bounce while chasing with Dhoni playing a crucial role in the transition. Chappell has said that the young Dhoni was the most exciting cricketer in India at that time and the ‘most powerful batsman’ he has ever seen. Chappell revealed that he was left awestruck when he saw Dhoni batting for the first time. "I vividly remember that I was left awestruck when I saw him batting for the first time. He was definitely the most exciting cricketer in India at that time. He used to hit the ball from the most unusual positions. He is the most powerful batsman I have ever seen," Chappell said during a chat session on Facebook. ALSO READ: Yuvraj Singh questions Ravi Shastri's ‘go out and play your game' approach Chappell further revealed how Dhoni played a contrasting knock against Sri Lanka following his blistering 183 and how he asked the wicketkeeper-batsman to play along the ground and take Team India over the winning line. Chappell added that Dhoni is the ‘best finisher’ the game has ever seen. "I remember his knock of 183 against Sri Lanka and how he tore them apart. It was power hitting at its very best. The next match was in Pune. I asked MS, 'why don't you play along the ground more instead of trying to hit every ball to the boundary'. We were chasing 260 odd and were in a good position and Dhoni was playing a contrasting inning to the one he had played just a couple of days before. ALSO READ: CSK reject playing IPL 2020 with only Indian players, says it will be similar to Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy "We still needed 20 runs to win and Dhoni asked me, through 12th man RP Singh if he could hit sixes. I told him not until the target was in single digit. When we needed six runs to win, he finished the game with a six," he said. "I always used to challenge him if he could finish the game. There used to be a booming smile on his face, whenever he used to score the winning runs. He is definitely the best finisher the game has ever seen," he signed off. Apart from becoming a chasing side in ODIs, Team India also won their maiden Test series in the West Indies after 35 years.

MS Dhoni 'most powerful batsman' and 'best finisher' cricket has ever seen: Greg Chappell

Since his retirement in June 2019, Yuvraj Singh has been vocal about different aspects of cricket. The former Indian all-rounder has been vocal about team selections and decision-making of the team management and now, the southpaw has questioned Team India head coach Ravi Shastri’s approach of ‘go out and play your game.’

During an Instagram Live session, Yuvraj said Shastri’s ‘play your natural game’ approach may work with someone like Virender Sehwag but it will never work with Cheteshwar Pujara while adding the coaching staff needs to realise certain aspects of the game.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/arjuna-awards-bcci-likely-to-recommend-shikha-pandey-deepti-sharmas-name-298381" hreflang="en">Arjuna Awards: BCCI likely to recommend Shikha Pandey, Deepti Sharma's name</a>

"The current guys have no one to talk to and take advice. I don’t know if Ravi is doing it but maybe he has others things in his hand. Anyway, you can’t tell everyone just ‘go out and play your game, express yourself’, this approach may work with someone like Sehwag … but this will never work with Pujara … so these things the coaching staff need to realise," Yuvraj said.

Yuvraj also criticized Team India’s selection in the ICC World Cup 2019 as he said how could team management allow someone like Vijay Shankar, who didn’t have much experience in high-pressure games, to bat in the middle-order. While India were splendid in the quadrennial event, they fell short in the semi-final in their defeat to New Zealand.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csk-reject-playing-ipl-2020-with-only-indian-players-says-it-will-be-similar-to-syed-mushtaq-ali-trophy-298286" hreflang="en">CSK reject playing IPL 2020 with only Indian players, says it will be similar to Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy</a>

Apart from cricket, Yuvraj has been vocal on social media platforms during the time of COVID-19 pandemic. Yuvraj has held Instagram Live sessions with the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Rohit Sharma, among others. 
&nbsp;

Since his retirement in June 2019, Yuvraj Singh has been vocal about different aspects of cricket. The former Indian all-rounder has been vocal about team selections and decision-making of the team management and now, the southpaw has questioned Team India head coach Ravi Shastri’s approach of ‘go out and play your game.

Since his retirement in June 2019, Yuvraj Singh has been vocal about different aspects of cricket. The former Indian all-rounder has been vocal about team selections and decision-making of the team management and now, the southpaw has questioned Team India head coach Ravi Shastri’s approach of ‘go out and play your game.’ During an Instagram Live session, Yuvraj said Shastri’s ‘play your natural game’ approach may work with someone like Virender Sehwag but it will never work with Cheteshwar Pujara while adding the coaching staff needs to realise certain aspects of the game. ALSO READ: Arjuna Awards: BCCI likely to recommend Shikha Pandey, Deepti Sharma's name "The current guys have no one to talk to and take advice. I don’t know if Ravi is doing it but maybe he has others things in his hand. Anyway, you can’t tell everyone just ‘go out and play your game, express yourself’, this approach may work with someone like Sehwag … but this will never work with Pujara … so these things the coaching staff need to realise," Yuvraj said. Yuvraj also criticized Team India’s selection in the ICC World Cup 2019 as he said how could team management allow someone like Vijay Shankar, who didn’t have much experience in high-pressure games, to bat in the middle-order. While India were splendid in the quadrennial event, they fell short in the semi-final in their defeat to New Zealand. ALSO READ: CSK reject playing IPL 2020 with only Indian players, says it will be similar to Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy Apart from cricket, Yuvraj has been vocal on social media platforms during the time of COVID-19 pandemic. Yuvraj has held Instagram Live sessions with the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Rohit Sharma, among others.

Yuvraj Singh questions Ravi Shastri's ‘go out and play your game' approach

Team India’s performance in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup was praised by all even though the Women in Blue came just short and finished with a runner’s up medal. &nbsp;Players like Shafali Verma, Poonam Yadav, Shikha Pandey and Deepti Sharma were some who stood out in Team India’s journey to the final. And Shikha and Deepti’s names have been suggested for this year’s prestigious Arjuna Awards by the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) Cricket Operations team.

Shikha and Deepti’s consistent run of form since 2019 has reaped rewards and their performances have helped their names being forwarded to the office-bearers for the recommendation for the Arjuna Awards.&nbsp;

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“Yes, the office-bearers were given the names of Shikha and Deepti by the cricket operations team for not just their brilliant show in the World T20 in Australia where we finished as runners-up, but also for their consistent showing in the last season. These two names have been forwarded to the office-bearers and are likely to be forwarded to the ministry for the Arjuna Awards once they approve,” a source close to the development was quoted as saying in media reports.

Shikha scalped seven wickets from five matches with the best figures of 3/14 in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup. Whereas Deepti played an all-round role while being instrumental with both bat and ball and finished the showpiece event with 116 under her belt.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-womens-cricket-world-cup-qualifier-postponed-due-to-covid-19-pandemic-298154" hreflang="en">ICC Women's Cricket World Cup Qualifier postponed due to COVID-19 pandemic</a>

Furthermore, Shikha is also a part of the Indian Air Force. “I’ve done engineering, and I’m an officer in the Indian Air Force. I joined the Air Force in 2012, and I took my training as well, and now I happen to be a flying officer, ATC officer. Then in 2014, I debuted for the Indian cricket team,” Shikha had revealed during the World T20.

The Sports Ministry on May 5 invited nominations for 2020 National Sports Awards including the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award and Arjuna Award. Amid the COVID-19 outbreak, the ministry had asked for nominations to be sent via e-mail.&nbsp;

The process, which usually starts in April, has been delayed due to the pandemic. “Due to lockdown on account of the outbreak of COVID-19, hard copies of nominations are not required to be sent. Scanned copies of the nominations duly signed by the applicant/recommending authority may be sent at above-mentioned email ids, before the last date of submission,” said the ministry in its circular.

The ministry has given a deadline of June 3 to file the nominations. 
&nbsp;

Team India’s performance in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup was praised by all even though the Women in Blue came just short and finished with a runner’s up medal.

Team India’s performance in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup was praised by all even though the Women in Blue came just short and finished with a runner’s up medal. Players like Shafali Verma, Poonam Yadav, Shikha Pandey and Deepti Sharma were some who stood out in Team India’s journey to the final. And Shikha and Deepti’s names have been suggested for this year’s prestigious Arjuna Awards by the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) Cricket Operations team. Shikha and Deepti’s consistent run of form since 2019 has reaped rewards and their performances have helped their names being forwarded to the office-bearers for the recommendation for the Arjuna Awards. ALSO READ: CSK reject playing IPL 2020 with only Indian players, says it will be similar to Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy “Yes, the office-bearers were given the names of Shikha and Deepti by the cricket operations team for not just their brilliant show in the World T20 in Australia where we finished as runners-up, but also for their consistent showing in the last season. These two names have been forwarded to the office-bearers and are likely to be forwarded to the ministry for the Arjuna Awards once they approve,” a source close to the development was quoted as saying in media reports. Shikha scalped seven wickets from five matches with the best figures of 3/14 in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup. Whereas Deepti played an all-round role while being instrumental with both bat and ball and finished the showpiece event with 116 under her belt. ALSO READ: ICC Women's Cricket World Cup Qualifier postponed due to COVID-19 pandemic Furthermore, Shikha is also a part of the Indian Air Force. “I’ve done engineering, and I’m an officer in the Indian Air Force. I joined the Air Force in 2012, and I took my training as well, and now I happen to be a flying officer, ATC officer. Then in 2014, I debuted for the Indian cricket team,” Shikha had revealed during the World T20. The Sports Ministry on May 5 invited nominations for 2020 National Sports Awards including the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award and Arjuna Award. Amid the COVID-19 outbreak, the ministry had asked for nominations to be sent via e-mail. The process, which usually starts in April, has been delayed due to the pandemic. “Due to lockdown on account of the outbreak of COVID-19, hard copies of nominations are not required to be sent. Scanned copies of the nominations duly signed by the applicant/recommending authority may be sent at above-mentioned email ids, before the last date of submission,” said the ministry in its circular. The ministry has given a deadline of June 3 to file the nominations.

Arjuna Awards: BCCI likely to recommend Shikha Pandey, Deepti Sharma's name

Three-time Indian Premier League (IPL) winners Chennai Super Kings have rejected the idea of playing the tournament with only Indian players while differing with Rajasthan Royals, who are fine with the option given the current scenario surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic. CSK have compared the IPL with only Indian players with domestic T20 competition Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.

IPL 2020, which stands postponed indefinitely, can be played in the September-October window if the ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled to be hosted by Australia, doesn’t take place.

"CSK is not keen to do an IPL with only Indian players. That way it would be playing another Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (domestic T20 competition). The franchise has not been in touch with the BCCI of late as the situation is worsening," a CSK source told PTI on conditions of anonymity.

"Let's hope we can have the IPL later this year," he added.

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Meanwhile, BCCI treasurer Arun Dhumal has said that the Indian cricket board will incur a loss around Rs 4,000 crore if the cash-rich tournament gets cancelled while adding that the board will be in huge financial trouble like Cricket Australia.&nbsp;

"The board will take a revenue hit of Rs 4000 crore if it doesn't happen. The board will be in a big problem," BCCI treasurer Arun Dhumal told PTI earlier this week.

With COVID-19 positive cases continuing to rise in India, the BCCI and IPL franchises see no point in discussing the fate of the tournament. However, CSK is hopeful that the Indian board will take the best possible when the right time comes.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-womens-cricket-world-cup-qualifier-postponed-due-to-covid-19-pandemic-298154" hreflang="en">ICC Women's Cricket World Cup Qualifier postponed due to COVID-19 pandemic</a>

"There has been no discussion with the BCCI ever since it postponed the IPL. There is no point in discussing also as things are unlikely to be okay anytime soon," the CSK source said.

"We expect the BCCI to take the best possible decision when the time comes," he added.

There are alternate options of conducting the tournament overseas after UAE and Sri Lanka Cricket came up with separate proposals to host the tournament.

Three-time Indian Premier League (IPL) winners Chennai Super Kings have rejected the idea of playing the tournament with only Indian players while differing with Rajasthan Royals, who are fine with the option given the current scenario surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic.

Three-time Indian Premier League (IPL) winners Chennai Super Kings have rejected the idea of playing the tournament with only Indian players while differing with Rajasthan Royals, who are fine with the option given the current scenario surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic. CSK have compared the IPL with only Indian players with domestic T20 competition Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. IPL 2020, which stands postponed indefinitely, can be played in the September-October window if the ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled to be hosted by Australia, doesn’t take place. "CSK is not keen to do an IPL with only Indian players. That way it would be playing another Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (domestic T20 competition). The franchise has not been in touch with the BCCI of late as the situation is worsening," a CSK source told PTI on conditions of anonymity. "Let's hope we can have the IPL later this year," he added. ALSO READ: BCCI staring at loss of half a billion dollars if IPL 2020 is cancelled Meanwhile, BCCI treasurer Arun Dhumal has said that the Indian cricket board will incur a loss around Rs 4,000 crore if the cash-rich tournament gets cancelled while adding that the board will be in huge financial trouble like Cricket Australia. "The board will take a revenue hit of Rs 4000 crore if it doesn't happen. The board will be in a big problem," BCCI treasurer Arun Dhumal told PTI earlier this week. With COVID-19 positive cases continuing to rise in India, the BCCI and IPL franchises see no point in discussing the fate of the tournament. However, CSK is hopeful that the Indian board will take the best possible when the right time comes. ALSO READ: ICC Women's Cricket World Cup Qualifier postponed due to COVID-19 pandemic "There has been no discussion with the BCCI ever since it postponed the IPL. There is no point in discussing also as things are unlikely to be okay anytime soon," the CSK source said. "We expect the BCCI to take the best possible decision when the time comes," he added. There are alternate options of conducting the tournament overseas after UAE and Sri Lanka Cricket came up with separate proposals to host the tournament.

CSK reject playing IPL 2020 with only Indian players, says it will be similar to Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy

Their scheduled international tours unlikely to go ahead due to coronavirus pandemic, the cricket boards of Australia and New Zealand are exploring the possibility of creating a constant stream of matches between the two neighbouring nations.

With the two governments planning to open up a corridor to allow quarantine-free travel, New Zealand Cricket chief executive David White discussed the possibility with his Cricket Australia counterpart Kevin Roberts.

"I've talked to Kevin Roberts about that. A Tasman bubble would be terrific if it did eventuate," White told Sydney Morning Herald.

"...It would present some opportunities going forward. But I think the key is to keep an open mind and be flexible so if opportunities do arise we can take them.

"We haven't talked specifics really. What we have talked about is conceptually the possibility of playing each other and that's where we are at the moment."

With the 13th IPL suspended indefinitely, the Test tour of Bangladesh abandoned and a limited-overs tour of England in July also likely to be called off, Australia will be without any cricket action this winter.

There are also doubts over the T20 World Cup scheduled to be held in October-November in Australia.

New Zealand's home international summer is also uncertain with Pakistan and West Indies scheduled to tour for Tests and Sri Lanka in the shorter form. 
Australia and New Zealand were locked in a three-game men's ODI series in March when it was called off due to the coronavirus outbreak after the first game was played behind closed doors at the SCG.

Their scheduled international tours unlikely to go ahead due to coronavirus pandemic, the cricket boards of Australia and New Zealand are exploring the possibility of creating a constant stream of matches between the two neighbouring nations.

Their scheduled international tours unlikely to go ahead due to coronavirus pandemic, the cricket boards of Australia and New Zealand are exploring the possibility of creating a constant stream of matches between the two neighbouring nations. With the two governments planning to open up a corridor to allow quarantine-free travel, New Zealand Cricket chief executive David White discussed the possibility with his Cricket Australia counterpart Kevin Roberts. "I've talked to Kevin Roberts about that. A Tasman bubble would be terrific if it did eventuate," White told Sydney Morning Herald. "...It would present some opportunities going forward. But I think the key is to keep an open mind and be flexible so if opportunities do arise we can take them. "We haven't talked specifics really. What we have talked about is conceptually the possibility of playing each other and that's where we are at the moment." With the 13th IPL suspended indefinitely, the Test tour of Bangladesh abandoned and a limited-overs tour of England in July also likely to be called off, Australia will be without any cricket action this winter. There are also doubts over the T20 World Cup scheduled to be held in October-November in Australia. New Zealand's home international summer is also uncertain with Pakistan and West Indies scheduled to tour for Tests and Sri Lanka in the shorter form. Australia and New Zealand were locked in a three-game men's ODI series in March when it was called off due to the coronavirus outbreak after the first game was played behind closed doors at the SCG.

Australia, New Zealand look to restart international cricket with Trans-Tasman rivalry

There has been a lot of debates surrounding who is a better batsman between Virat Kohli and Steve Smith. While many former cricketers and experts have hailed Kohli as a better player across formats, others have chosen Smith as the close winner in the race. Now, former South African skipper AB de Villiers has given his take on the rivalry between Kohli and Smith as he compared the duo with tennis legends Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal respectively.&nbsp;

While de Villiers didn’t clearly pick his favourite, Mr. 360 did state that Kohli is a more natural striker of the ball.&nbsp;

In an Instagram chat with former Zimbabwe seamer Pommie Mbangwa, de Villiers spoke about the two batsmen.

“It’s a difficult one, but Virat is definitely the more natural ball-striker, there’s no doubt about that,” de Villiers said during his interaction.

“In tennis terms, I’d say he’s more like a (Roger) Federer whereas Smith is like a (Rafael) Nadal. Smith is mentally very strong and figures out a way of scoring runs - he doesn’t look natural, but he ends up writing records and doing amazing things at the crease. “I think mentally; Smith is one of the best I have ever seen. Virat has also scored runs all over the world and won games under pressure,” de Villiers, himself a modern-day great, said.

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However, de Villiers was pushed to backfoot when a fan asked him to choose his favourite between Kohli and Sachin Tendulkar. The swashbuckling batsman picked Tendulkar in a jiffy as he said for both him and Kohli, Tendulkar is like a role model and the Master Blaster had set standards for other batsmen to follow. However, de Villiers stated Kohli is the best ever when it comes to chasing a total.

"Sachin for both (him and Kohli) of us is like a role model. The way he stood out back in the day in his era and the things he achieved and with the grace he did all of that, it's a great example for everyone. I think Virat will also say that he's (Tendulkar) the main guy, he's the dude. He set the standards for guys like us to follow. Personally for me, especially in a chase, I'd say Virat is the best I've ever seen in my life. There's no-one that beats him when it comes to... the opposition scores 330 and you've got to go chase it down," he said.

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"Sachin was amazing in all formats, all sorts of situations but Virat tops him there when it comes to chasing under pressure. For me, that's where I rate sportsman, when it comes to tennis, golf... the Tiger Woods of the world. When the heat is really on you feel like your whole body is numb, but he (Kohli) stands up and he does amazing things. That's what Virat does under pressure," de Villiers added.

There has been a lot of debates surrounding who is a better batsman between Virat Kohli and Steve Smith. While many former cricketers and experts have hailed Kohli as a better player across formats, others have chosen Smith as the close winner in the race.

There has been a lot of debates surrounding who is a better batsman between Virat Kohli and Steve Smith. While many former cricketers and experts have hailed Kohli as a better player across formats, others have chosen Smith as the close winner in the race. Now, former South African skipper AB de Villiers has given his take on the rivalry between Kohli and Smith as he compared the duo with tennis legends Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal respectively. While de Villiers didn’t clearly pick his favourite, Mr. 360 did state that Kohli is a more natural striker of the ball. In an Instagram chat with former Zimbabwe seamer Pommie Mbangwa, de Villiers spoke about the two batsmen. “It’s a difficult one, but Virat is definitely the more natural ball-striker, there’s no doubt about that,” de Villiers said during his interaction. “In tennis terms, I’d say he’s more like a (Roger) Federer whereas Smith is like a (Rafael) Nadal. Smith is mentally very strong and figures out a way of scoring runs - he doesn’t look natural, but he ends up writing records and doing amazing things at the crease. “I think mentally; Smith is one of the best I have ever seen. Virat has also scored runs all over the world and won games under pressure,” de Villiers, himself a modern-day great, said. ALSO READ: BCCI staring at loss of half a billion dollars if IPL 2020 is cancelled However, de Villiers was pushed to backfoot when a fan asked him to choose his favourite between Kohli and Sachin Tendulkar. The swashbuckling batsman picked Tendulkar in a jiffy as he said for both him and Kohli, Tendulkar is like a role model and the Master Blaster had set standards for other batsmen to follow. However, de Villiers stated Kohli is the best ever when it comes to chasing a total. "Sachin for both (him and Kohli) of us is like a role model. The way he stood out back in the day in his era and the things he achieved and with the grace he did all of that, it's a great example for everyone. I think Virat will also say that he's (Tendulkar) the main guy, he's the dude. He set the standards for guys like us to follow. Personally for me, especially in a chase, I'd say Virat is the best I've ever seen in my life. There's no-one that beats him when it comes to... the opposition scores 330 and you've got to go chase it down," he said. ALSO READ: International Nurses Day: Virat Kohli, Sachin Tendulkar pay heartfelt tribute to 'silent guardians' "Sachin was amazing in all formats, all sorts of situations but Virat tops him there when it comes to chasing under pressure. For me, that's where I rate sportsman, when it comes to tennis, golf... the Tiger Woods of the world. When the heat is really on you feel like your whole body is numb, but he (Kohli) stands up and he does amazing things. That's what Virat does under pressure," de Villiers added.

Virat Kohli and Steve Smith are Federer-Nadal of cricket: AB de Villiers

Cancelling the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 due to COVID-19 pandemic would cost the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) more than half a billion dollars, however, cutting players’ wage has not been considered yet by the authorities.&nbsp;

The IPL is staring at a first wipeout in its 12-year history following repeated postponement of the tournament from the original starting date of March 29. Scrapping the cash-rich tournament would result in a massive financial hit for the Indian cricket board.

"The BCCI is looking at a big revenue loss. In case the IPL does not take place, the loss would be close to 40 billion rupees ($530 million), or even more," said Board of Control for Cricket in India treasurer Arun Dhumal as quoted by AFP.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-womens-cricket-world-cup-qualifier-postponed-due-to-covid-19-pandemic-298154" hreflang="en">ICC Women's Cricket World Cup Qualifier postponed due to COVID-19 pandemic</a>

Dhumal admitted that the authorities are not sure whether it will be possible to conduct IPL 2020.&nbsp;

"We are not sure whether we will be able to have it this year," he admitted.

While the three-match ODI series against South Africa in March was cancelled after the first washed-out game in Dharamsala, it is the IPL, that generates the maximum of BCCI’s revenue and reportedly, is worth more than $11 billion a year to the Indian economy.

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>

"We will only be able to figure out the exact revenue loss once we are sure of how many games we have lost," said Dhumal.&nbsp;

As per Duff and Phelps financial consultancy, the brand value of IPL was estimated at $6.7 billion in 2019.

While Star Sports paid more than $220 million for five years of TV rights up to 2022, the broadcaster was targeting $400 million of revenue in 2020 alone, as per reports.

Dhumal further said pay cut is the last thing the BCCI would do from their end and hence, the board is calculating how much loss they will suffer if IPL 2020 is cancelled.&nbsp;

"That would be the last thing that we would want to do at our end," said Dhumal.

"That is why we are working (on) how much is the loss finally we have to pay.&nbsp;

"So once we are able to assess that then we might consider it, but it will be the last thing on our agenda."

Cancelling the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 due to COVID-19 pandemic would cost the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) more than half a billion dollars, however, cutting players’ wage has not been considered yet by the authorities.

Cancelling the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 due to COVID-19 pandemic would cost the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) more than half a billion dollars, however, cutting players’ wage has not been considered yet by the authorities. The IPL is staring at a first wipeout in its 12-year history following repeated postponement of the tournament from the original starting date of March 29. Scrapping the cash-rich tournament would result in a massive financial hit for the Indian cricket board. "The BCCI is looking at a big revenue loss. In case the IPL does not take place, the loss would be close to 40 billion rupees ($530 million), or even more," said Board of Control for Cricket in India treasurer Arun Dhumal as quoted by AFP. ALSO READ: ICC Women's Cricket World Cup Qualifier postponed due to COVID-19 pandemic Dhumal admitted that the authorities are not sure whether it will be possible to conduct IPL 2020. "We are not sure whether we will be able to have it this year," he admitted. While the three-match ODI series against South Africa in March was cancelled after the first washed-out game in Dharamsala, it is the IPL, that generates the maximum of BCCI’s revenue and reportedly, is worth more than $11 billion a year to the Indian economy. ALSO READ: International Nurses Day: Virat Kohli, Sachin Tendulkar pay heartfelt tribute to 'silent guardians' "We will only be able to figure out the exact revenue loss once we are sure of how many games we have lost," said Dhumal. As per Duff and Phelps financial consultancy, the brand value of IPL was estimated at $6.7 billion in 2019. While Star Sports paid more than $220 million for five years of TV rights up to 2022, the broadcaster was targeting $400 million of revenue in 2020 alone, as per reports. Dhumal further said pay cut is the last thing the BCCI would do from their end and hence, the board is calculating how much loss they will suffer if IPL 2020 is cancelled. "That would be the last thing that we would want to do at our end," said Dhumal. "That is why we are working (on) how much is the loss finally we have to pay. "So once we are able to assess that then we might consider it, but it will be the last thing on our agenda."

BCCI staring at loss of half a billion dollars if IPL 2020 is cancelled

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;

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;

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;

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>

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:&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>

“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.”

 
&nbsp;

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

Indian cricket team skipper Virat Kohli and legend Sachin Tendulkar on Tuesday posted heartfelt messages on the occasion of International Nurses Day. Almost the entire world is currently witnessing the devastating effects of COVID-19 pandemic that has infected millions of people and amid the testing times, the ones who are putting their lives to risk in a bid to overcome the pandemic are the healthcare workers and on the occasion of International Nurses Day, Kohli and Tendulkar posted heartfelt messages for the nurses working round the clock.&nbsp;

Kohli, taking to social media platform Twitter, thanked all the nurses for their selfless service, dedication, compassion and kindness during challenging times and otherwise.&nbsp;

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>

Kohli wrote: "Thank you for your selfless service, dedication, compassion and kindness during such challenging times and otherwise. Smiling face with smiling eyes Let us all join together to celebrate #InternationalNursesDay."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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Thank you for your selfless service, dedication, compassion and kindness during such challenging times and otherwise. Let us all join together to celebrate <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/InternationalNursesDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#InternationalNursesDay</a>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1260090359964565505?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Whereas batting great Tendulkar lauded the work by nurses across the world while calling them “silent guardians”.&nbsp;

"It’s a day to celebrate &amp; thank all the Nurses across the world who’ve been providing care &amp; attention to those unwell &amp; in need. They're the silent guardians who make invaluable contributions to the health &amp; safety of people while risking their own lives. #InternationalNursesDay," Sachin wrote on his Twitter account.

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It’s a day to celebrate &amp; thank all the Nurses across the world who’ve been providing care &amp; attention to those unwell &amp; in need. 
They're the silent guardians who make invaluable contributions to the health &amp; safety of people while risking their own lives.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/InternationalNursesDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#InternationalNursesDay</a> <a href="https://t.co/rkMaUmwtkn">pic.twitter.com/rkMaUmwtkn</a>
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1260081004422631426?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusivity-is-the-key-bcci-official-dismisses-suresh-rainas-suggestion-of-allowing-players-in-overseas-t20-leagues-297946" hreflang="en">'Exclusivity is the key' - BCCI official dismisses Suresh Raina’s suggestion of allowing players in overseas T20 leagues</a>

International Nurses Day is organised every year to celebrate Florence Nightingale’s birth anniversary. In January 1974, 12 May was chosen to celebrate the day as it is the anniversary of the birth of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing. The theme for International Nurses Day 2020 is "Nursing the World to Health". 
&nbsp;

Indian cricket team skipper Virat Kohli and legend Sachin Tendulkar on Tuesday posted heartfelt messages on the occasion of International Nurses Day. Almost the entire world is currently witnessing the devastating effects of COVID-19 pandemic that has infected millions of people and amid the testing times, the ones who are putting their lives to risk in a bid to overcome the pandemic are the healthcare workers and on the occasion of International Nurses Day, Kohli and Tendulkar posted heartfelt messages for the nurses working round the clock.

Indian cricket team skipper Virat Kohli and legend Sachin Tendulkar on Tuesday posted heartfelt messages on the occasion of International Nurses Day. Almost the entire world is currently witnessing the devastating effects of COVID-19 pandemic that has infected millions of people and amid the testing times, the ones who are putting their lives to risk in a bid to overcome the pandemic are the healthcare workers and on the occasion of International Nurses Day, Kohli and Tendulkar posted heartfelt messages for the nurses working round the clock. Kohli, taking to social media platform Twitter, thanked all the nurses for their selfless service, dedication, compassion and kindness during challenging times and otherwise. 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 Kohli wrote: "Thank you for your selfless service, dedication, compassion and kindness during such challenging times and otherwise. Smiling face with smiling eyes Let us all join together to celebrate #InternationalNursesDay." Thank you for your selfless service, dedication, compassion and kindness during such challenging times and otherwise. Let us all join together to celebrate #InternationalNursesDay — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) May 12, 2020 × Whereas batting great Tendulkar lauded the work by nurses across the world while calling them “silent guardians”. "It’s a day to celebrate & thank all the Nurses across the world who’ve been providing care & attention to those unwell & in need. They're the silent guardians who make invaluable contributions to the health & safety of people while risking their own lives. #InternationalNursesDay," Sachin wrote on his Twitter account. It’s a day to celebrate & thank all the Nurses across the world who’ve been providing care & attention to those unwell & in need. They're the silent guardians who make invaluable contributions to the health & safety of people while risking their own lives.#InternationalNursesDay pic.twitter.com/rkMaUmwtkn — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) May 12, 2020 × ALSO READ: 'Exclusivity is the key' - BCCI official dismisses Suresh Raina’s suggestion of allowing players in overseas T20 leagues International Nurses Day is organised every year to celebrate Florence Nightingale’s birth anniversary. In January 1974, 12 May was chosen to celebrate the day as it is the anniversary of the birth of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing. The theme for International Nurses Day 2020 is "Nursing the World to Health".

International Nurses Day: Virat Kohli, Sachin Tendulkar pay heartfelt tribute to 'silent guardians'

With the fate of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 hanging in balance, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) hasn’t taken any call on the future of the cash-rich tournament besides postponing it indefinitely amid the COVID-19 pandemic. With lockdown and travel restrictions in place, the Indian board has been trying to find an alternate solution in a bid to conduct IPL 2020 later in the year.&nbsp;

However, given the popularity of IPL, there aren’t any dearth of suitors as after Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC), the Emirates Cricket Board has offered to host the 13th edition of the IPL in the United Arab Emirates. Interestingly, UAE had hosted 20 matches of IPL 2014 to avoid collision of dates with general elections in India. However, the BCCI is continuing to wait for things to clear up in India before taking a call, as per a report in a leading daily.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/umar-akmal-didnt-show-remorse-after-failing-to-report-corrupt-approaches-pcb-disciplinary-panel-head-297501" hreflang="en">Umar Akmal didn’t show remorse after failing to report corrupt approaches: PCB disciplinary panel head</a>

<h2>Would BCCI be open to moving IPL 2020 to a foreign land?&nbsp;</h2>

“The UAE has offered to host the IPL if we want them to. But right now when there is no international travel, there is no question of taking a call on that,” said BCCI treasurer Arun Dhumal as per the report.

Meanwhile, the BCCI is still looking to host the IPL in India should the COVID-19 pandemic gets contained. The question remains, should the coronavirus curve doesn’t flatten in coming weeks or months, would BCCI be open to moving IPL 2020 to a foreign land?&nbsp;

“The health and security of players and all participants is our priority. At the moment, the entire world travel has come to a standstill, so there is nothing we can decide at this stage,” Dhumal said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/paralysed-iranian-artist-fateme-hamami-paints-portraits-of-cristiano-ronaldo-lionel-messi-leaves-social-media-in-awe-297488" hreflang="en">Paralysed Iranian artist Fateme Hamami paints portraits of Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi; leaves social media in awe</a>

With Sri Lanka and UAE, TV timings won’t be an issue. But if it is hosted in India, the matches, in all likelihood, will be played behind closed doors with franchise losing out revenue from gate receipts. An IPL edition just for TV will at least protect the broadcast and title right deals of the BCCI. Interestingly, when the IPL was hosted by Cricket South Africa (CSA), the board made a turnover of $11.4 million.&nbsp;

“We have discussed amongst our committee members the proposal to host the IPL in Sri Lanka. We are in lockdown till May 11. Any further decision will be taken after that,” said SLC secretary Mohan de Silva. 
&nbsp;

With the fate of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 hanging in balance, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) hasn’t taken any call on the future of the cash-rich tournament besides postponing it indefinitely amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

With the fate of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 hanging in balance, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) hasn’t taken any call on the future of the cash-rich tournament besides postponing it indefinitely amid the COVID-19 pandemic. With lockdown and travel restrictions in place, the Indian board has been trying to find an alternate solution in a bid to conduct IPL 2020 later in the year. However, given the popularity of IPL, there aren’t any dearth of suitors as after Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC), the Emirates Cricket Board has offered to host the 13th edition of the IPL in the United Arab Emirates. Interestingly, UAE had hosted 20 matches of IPL 2014 to avoid collision of dates with general elections in India. However, the BCCI is continuing to wait for things to clear up in India before taking a call, as per a report in a leading daily. ALSO READ: Umar Akmal didn’t show remorse after failing to report corrupt approaches: PCB disciplinary panel head Would BCCI be open to moving IPL 2020 to a foreign land? “The UAE has offered to host the IPL if we want them to. But right now when there is no international travel, there is no question of taking a call on that,” said BCCI treasurer Arun Dhumal as per the report. Meanwhile, the BCCI is still looking to host the IPL in India should the COVID-19 pandemic gets contained. The question remains, should the coronavirus curve doesn’t flatten in coming weeks or months, would BCCI be open to moving IPL 2020 to a foreign land? “The health and security of players and all participants is our priority. At the moment, the entire world travel has come to a standstill, so there is nothing we can decide at this stage,” Dhumal said. ALSO READ: Paralysed Iranian artist Fateme Hamami paints portraits of Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi; leaves social media in awe With Sri Lanka and UAE, TV timings won’t be an issue. But if it is hosted in India, the matches, in all likelihood, will be played behind closed doors with franchise losing out revenue from gate receipts. An IPL edition just for TV will at least protect the broadcast and title right deals of the BCCI. Interestingly, when the IPL was hosted by Cricket South Africa (CSA), the board made a turnover of $11.4 million. “We have discussed amongst our committee members the proposal to host the IPL in Sri Lanka. We are in lockdown till May 11. Any further decision will be taken after that,” said SLC secretary Mohan de Silva.

UAE offers to host IPL 2020, BCCI yet to take a call

Recently, Suresh Raina in an Instagram Live session with Irfan Pathan had suggested that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) should allow non-contracted players to play in overseas T20 tournaments for the betterment of quality and experience of the players. However, a BCCI official has completely dismissed Raina's suggestion by saying ‘exclusivity is the key’ in Indian Premier League (IPL) and that commands good value for players at the IPL auction.&nbsp;

The BCCI official further said that it’s natural to find these views coming from the players with retirement approaching.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uae-offers-to-host-ipl-2020-bcci-yet-to-take-a-call-297930" hreflang="en">UAE offers to host IPL 2020, BCCI yet to take a call</a>

<h2>"Exclusivity is the key"</h2>

“One usually finds these views emanating from those who can see the wall of retirement approaching, and it’s only natural. That’s their view. It’s the luxury of having the freedom of a tunnel vision with a view to further their own interests, and that’s absolutely fine,” a BCCI official was quoted as saying by news portals.&nbsp;

“From the point of view of the board and the interests of Indian cricket, the intent is to ensure a system where the non-contracted players are able to command good value at the IPL auction. Exclusivity is the key,” the official added.&nbsp;

Recently, veteran spinner Pravin Tambe’s IPL 2020 contract with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) was cancelled as he had participated in an overseas cricket tournament and it was against BCCI’s policy.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/on-what-front-are-australia-the-no-1-ranked-test-team-gautam-gambhir-questions-iccs-rankings-system-297936" hreflang="en">'On what front are Australia the No. 1-ranked Test team?' - Gautam Gambhir questions ICC's rankings system</a>

Even for playing County Cricket, Indian players need to take a NOC from the BCCI and in the recent years, the likes of Ravichandran Ashwin, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Ishant Sharma and Umesh Yadav among others have plied their trade in the County season in order to improve their game.&nbsp;

However, when it comes to T20 cricket, BCCI is pretty stern about not allowing players to play abroad.

Recently, Suresh Raina in an Instagram Live session with Irfan Pathan had suggested that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) should allow non-contracted players to play in overseas T20 tournaments for the betterment of quality and experience of the players.

Recently, Suresh Raina in an Instagram Live session with Irfan Pathan had suggested that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) should allow non-contracted players to play in overseas T20 tournaments for the betterment of quality and experience of the players. However, a BCCI official has completely dismissed Raina's suggestion by saying ‘exclusivity is the key’ in Indian Premier League (IPL) and that commands good value for players at the IPL auction. The BCCI official further said that it’s natural to find these views coming from the players with retirement approaching. ALSO READ: UAE offers to host IPL 2020, BCCI yet to take a call "Exclusivity is the key" “One usually finds these views emanating from those who can see the wall of retirement approaching, and it’s only natural. That’s their view. It’s the luxury of having the freedom of a tunnel vision with a view to further their own interests, and that’s absolutely fine,” a BCCI official was quoted as saying by news portals. “From the point of view of the board and the interests of Indian cricket, the intent is to ensure a system where the non-contracted players are able to command good value at the IPL auction. Exclusivity is the key,” the official added. Recently, veteran spinner Pravin Tambe’s IPL 2020 contract with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) was cancelled as he had participated in an overseas cricket tournament and it was against BCCI’s policy. ALSO READ: 'On what front are Australia the No. 1-ranked Test team?' - Gautam Gambhir questions ICC's rankings system Even for playing County Cricket, Indian players need to take a NOC from the BCCI and in the recent years, the likes of Ravichandran Ashwin, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Ishant Sharma and Umesh Yadav among others have plied their trade in the County season in order to improve their game. However, when it comes to T20 cricket, BCCI is pretty stern about not allowing players to play abroad.

'Exclusivity is the key' - BCCI official dismisses Suresh Raina’s suggestion of allowing players in overseas T20 leagues

Cricket Australia (CA) has received a major reprieve as India’s tour of Australia later in the year is likely to go ahead after the board received a nod from the BCCI for the much-talked-about series. BCCI treasurer Arun Dhumal has said that Indian players will go into isolation for two weeks if they are asked to do so by the Australian board.

As per the rules amid COVID-19 pandemic, those travelling to Australia have to go into isolation for a couple of weeks. The quarantine rules could have seen BCCI postponing the tour but the Indian cricket board is willing to play the scheduled four-match Test series.&nbsp;

Dhumal has said that there is no choice as everyone wants to resume cricket.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-dont-feel-ipl-will-be-possible-this-year-india-and-kxip-pacer-mohammed-shami-297275" hreflang="en">"I don’t feel IPL will be possible this year": India and KXIP pacer Mohammed Shami</a>

“There is no choice – everyone will have to do that. You would want to resume cricket. Two weeks is not that long a lockdown. That would be ideal for any sportsman because when you are in quarantine for such a long period, then going to another country and having a two-week lockdown it would be a good thing to do. We’ll have to see what the norms are post this lockdown,” Dhumal told an Australian daily.

While Cricket Australia is yet to confirm the news, reports suggest that CA may lock the Indian team in a new hotel for the two-week isolation period. The hotel is likely to open in September and will have all training facilities and nets for the Indian players to gear up for the series. The venue could further host a warm-up match before the return of the international calendar.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-too-feel-the-pressure-ms-dhoni-opens-up-on-the-issue-of-mental-health-297216" hreflang="en">"I too feel the pressure": MS Dhoni opens up on the issue of mental health</a>

However, with more than six months remaining for the series, the development surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic in the next months could prove to be crucial. A lot will depend on the ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled to be hosted by Australia in October-November.

Cricket Australia (CA) has received a major reprieve as India’s tour of Australia later in the year is likely to go ahead after the board received a nod from the BCCI for the much-talked-about series.

Cricket Australia (CA) has received a major reprieve as India’s tour of Australia later in the year is likely to go ahead after the board received a nod from the BCCI for the much-talked-about series. BCCI treasurer Arun Dhumal has said that Indian players will go into isolation for two weeks if they are asked to do so by the Australian board. As per the rules amid COVID-19 pandemic, those travelling to Australia have to go into isolation for a couple of weeks. The quarantine rules could have seen BCCI postponing the tour but the Indian cricket board is willing to play the scheduled four-match Test series. Dhumal has said that there is no choice as everyone wants to resume cricket. ALSO READ: "I don’t feel IPL will be possible this year": India and KXIP pacer Mohammed Shami “There is no choice – everyone will have to do that. You would want to resume cricket. Two weeks is not that long a lockdown. That would be ideal for any sportsman because when you are in quarantine for such a long period, then going to another country and having a two-week lockdown it would be a good thing to do. We’ll have to see what the norms are post this lockdown,” Dhumal told an Australian daily. While Cricket Australia is yet to confirm the news, reports suggest that CA may lock the Indian team in a new hotel for the two-week isolation period. The hotel is likely to open in September and will have all training facilities and nets for the Indian players to gear up for the series. The venue could further host a warm-up match before the return of the international calendar. ALSO READ: "I too feel the pressure": MS Dhoni opens up on the issue of mental health However, with more than six months remaining for the series, the development surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic in the next months could prove to be crucial. A lot will depend on the ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled to be hosted by Australia in October-November.

Team India ready for two-week quarantine phase before Australia Test series: BCCI official

Pakistan cricketer Umar Akmal, after being imposed a three-year ban for failing to report corrupt approaches, didn’t show any remorse nor did he seek an apology after the verdict, chairman of Pakistan Cricket Board’s disciplinary observed in his detailed judgement. Justice (retired) Fazal-e-Miran Chauhan submitted a detailed judgement to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), which was made public on Friday.&nbsp;

Akmal was found guilty for two charges under PCB’s Anti-Corruption Code as the judgement disqualified him from involving in cricket-related activities till February 19, 2023. The 29-year-old batsman has 14 days to appeal against the two three-year bans which will run concurrently. The detailed judgement also stated that Akmal tried to refuge under the pretext that he has always reported any such approaches in past.

“It appears that he (Umar Akmal) is not prepared to show remorse and seek apology, make admission that he failed to fulfill his responsibility under Anti-Corruption Code...,” Justice Chauhan said in the judgement.

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“...rather he tried to take refuge under the pretext that in the past whenever any such approaches were made, the matter was reported by him,” he said. 
Akmal was suspended on the eve of Pakistan Super League 2020 before being charged with two breaches of Article 2.4.4 of PCB’s Anti-Corruption Code in two unrelated cases on March 17.&nbsp;

“The charge as framed is proved and the participant (Umar Akmal) has rendered himself liable to be punished for breach of Article 2.4.4,” Justice Chauhan said.

“It is also admitted by him (Umar Akmal) that he failed to report the approaches and invitation to the PCB Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Department, as required by the PCB Code, Article 2.4.4.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-cant-think-of-ipl-getting-back-yet-bcci-official-on-resumption-of-cricket-297468" hreflang="en">'We can’t think of IPL getting back yet': BCCI official on resumption of cricket</a>

“In view of the above charge as framed, stood proven and the participant has rendered himself to be punished under Article 6.2 of the PCB Code,” he added.

Akmal, who is also the younger brother of Kamran Akmal, last played for Pakistan in October while featuring in 16 Tests, 121 ODIs and 84 T20s and scored 1003, 3194 and 1690 runs respectively.&nbsp;

Pakistan cricketer Umar Akmal, after being imposed a three-year ban for failing to report corrupt approaches, didn’t show any remorse nor did he seek an apology after the verdict, chairman of Pakistan Cricket Board’s disciplinary observed in his detailed judgement.

Pakistan cricketer Umar Akmal, after being imposed a three-year ban for failing to report corrupt approaches, didn’t show any remorse nor did he seek an apology after the verdict, chairman of Pakistan Cricket Board’s disciplinary observed in his detailed judgement. Justice (retired) Fazal-e-Miran Chauhan submitted a detailed judgement to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), which was made public on Friday. Akmal was found guilty for two charges under PCB’s Anti-Corruption Code as the judgement disqualified him from involving in cricket-related activities till February 19, 2023. The 29-year-old batsman has 14 days to appeal against the two three-year bans which will run concurrently. The detailed judgement also stated that Akmal tried to refuge under the pretext that he has always reported any such approaches in past. “It appears that he (Umar Akmal) is not prepared to show remorse and seek apology, make admission that he failed to fulfill his responsibility under Anti-Corruption Code...,” Justice Chauhan said in the judgement. ALSO READ: Paralysed Iranian artist Fateme Hamami paints portraits of Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi; leaves social media in awe “...rather he tried to take refuge under the pretext that in the past whenever any such approaches were made, the matter was reported by him,” he said. Akmal was suspended on the eve of Pakistan Super League 2020 before being charged with two breaches of Article 2.4.4 of PCB’s Anti-Corruption Code in two unrelated cases on March 17. “The charge as framed is proved and the participant (Umar Akmal) has rendered himself liable to be punished for breach of Article 2.4.4,” Justice Chauhan said. “It is also admitted by him (Umar Akmal) that he failed to report the approaches and invitation to the PCB Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Department, as required by the PCB Code, Article 2.4.4. ALSO READ: 'We can’t think of IPL getting back yet': BCCI official on resumption of cricket “In view of the above charge as framed, stood proven and the participant has rendered himself to be punished under Article 6.2 of the PCB Code,” he added. Akmal, who is also the younger brother of Kamran Akmal, last played for Pakistan in October while featuring in 16 Tests, 121 ODIs and 84 T20s and scored 1003, 3194 and 1690 runs respectively.

Umar Akmal didn’t show remorse after failing to report corrupt approaches: PCB disciplinary panel head

Cricket fans are eagerly waiting on an update from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) regarding the postponed Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020. While speculations are rife that the Indian cricket board is looking for an alternate window to conduct the cash-rich tournament, BCCI treasurer Arun Dhumal has claimed the reports to be “media speculation” while adding that the board is not thinking about IPL and once things surrounding COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown measures get clear they will get back to the drawing board and think of resuming cricket.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/magical-moments-will-be-difficult-to-come-by-virat-kohli-gives-his-take-on-playing-ipl-behind-closed-doors-297418" hreflang="en">'Magical moments will be difficult to come by': Virat Kohli gives his take on playing IPL behind closed doors</a>

Dhumal said that the board still doesn’t know whether overseas players would be willing to come to India for the IPL or whether they would be required to go under quarantine for two weeks before playing the tournament.&nbsp;

“We haven’t planned anything as of now. We can’t think of IPL getting back yet. Players coming in from other countries, whether they’ll be willing to come here and be quarantined for two weeks and play IPL is not known. How can we think of IPL? This is all media speculation. There is nothing as of now. Once things get clear, then only will we be able to go back to the drawing board and think about re-starting cricket,” Dhumal told an Australian daily.

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>

There are reports stating that the ICC T20 World Cup could be pushed back and instead IPL could be played in that window. However, that would require a lot of re-shuffling of the cricket calendar. India is also scheduled to play a four-match Test series against Australia later in the year. 
&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Cricket fans are eagerly waiting on an update from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) regarding the postponed Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020. While speculations are rife that the Indian cricket board is looking for an alternate window to conduct the cash-rich tournament, BCCI treasurer Arun Dhumal has claimed the reports to be “media speculation” while adding that the board is not thinking about IPL and once things surrounding COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown measures get clear they will get back to the drawing board and think of resuming cricket.

Cricket fans are eagerly waiting on an update from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) regarding the postponed Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020. While speculations are rife that the Indian cricket board is looking for an alternate window to conduct the cash-rich tournament, BCCI treasurer Arun Dhumal has claimed the reports to be “media speculation” while adding that the board is not thinking about IPL and once things surrounding COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown measures get clear they will get back to the drawing board and think of resuming cricket. ALSO READ: 'Magical moments will be difficult to come by': Virat Kohli gives his take on playing IPL behind closed doors Dhumal said that the board still doesn’t know whether overseas players would be willing to come to India for the IPL or whether they would be required to go under quarantine for two weeks before playing the tournament. “We haven’t planned anything as of now. We can’t think of IPL getting back yet. Players coming in from other countries, whether they’ll be willing to come here and be quarantined for two weeks and play IPL is not known. How can we think of IPL? This is all media speculation. There is nothing as of now. Once things get clear, then only will we be able to go back to the drawing board and think about re-starting cricket,” Dhumal told an Australian daily. ALSO READ: From Jofra Archer to James Maddison: ePremier League 2 kicks off with enthralling action on FIFA 20 There are reports stating that the ICC T20 World Cup could be pushed back and instead IPL could be played in that window. However, that would require a lot of re-shuffling of the cricket calendar. India is also scheduled to play a four-match Test series against Australia later in the year.

'We can’t think of IPL getting back yet': BCCI official on resumption of cricket

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;

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;

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>

<h2>"Emotions are very difficult to recreate"</h2>

"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:&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>

“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.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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

Indian pacer Mohammed Shami on Thursday said that he doesn’t see the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 happening this year. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the yearly T20 tournament has been postponed indefinitely and there are question marks over the possibility of holding it in an alternate window. &nbsp;Shami was supposed to play for Kings XI Punjab after being retained by the franchise before the auction that took place in Kolkata in December 2019.

Shami, during an Instagram Live session, said that he doesn’t think there’s enough time for IPL this year while adding that the T20 World Cup may also get postponed. Shami said that with many bilateral series and events getting cancelled, cricket calendar needs to be shuffled.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-should-only-start-when-ajinkya-rahane-on-resumption-of-sports-297259" hreflang="en">"Cricket should only start when...": Ajinkya Rahane on resumption of sports</a>

“I was speaking to Irfan bhai as well on the possibilities of Indian Premier League. I don’t think there is time for IPL this year. Our T20I World Cup may also get pushed. Everything has come to a stop. We have to reschedule everything. We have to see where to place everything, accordingly. Hence, I don’t feel the IPL will be possible,” he said.

However, Shami is of the view that if lockdown ends early then IPL 2020 can be held later in the year. The Indian pacer added that IPL could provide a platform for players to get into the rhythm and regain their form before the T20 World Cup.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-too-feel-the-pressure-ms-dhoni-opens-up-on-the-issue-of-mental-health-297216" hreflang="en">"I too feel the pressure": MS Dhoni opens up on the issue of mental health</a>

“We have to wait and see how long our lockdown lasts. If our lockdown gets over early, then we may see IPL happen this year - even though later in the year. It will be great if IPL happens before the T20 World Cup, as the players can get used to the format, and also get back to their rhythm.”

Like to Ajinkya Rahane, Shami also feels players would need at least a month to get back into shape and match-day rhythm.&nbsp;

“The sports person’s body needs to get used to the scenario. Every player needs time to get the groove and rhythm back. Players need at least a month to get back into shape. 95 per cent of my sports stars are stuck inside their house. They cannot do many activities. So, they need time to get back on the field,” he said. 
&nbsp;

Indian pacer Mohammed Shami on Thursday said that he doesn’t see the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 happening this year. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the yearly T20 tournament has been postponed indefinitely and there are question marks over the possibility of holding it in an alternate window.

Indian pacer Mohammed Shami on Thursday said that he doesn’t see the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 happening this year. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the yearly T20 tournament has been postponed indefinitely and there are question marks over the possibility of holding it in an alternate window. Shami was supposed to play for Kings XI Punjab after being retained by the franchise before the auction that took place in Kolkata in December 2019. Shami, during an Instagram Live session, said that he doesn’t think there’s enough time for IPL this year while adding that the T20 World Cup may also get postponed. Shami said that with many bilateral series and events getting cancelled, cricket calendar needs to be shuffled. ALSO READ: "Cricket should only start when...": Ajinkya Rahane on resumption of sports “I was speaking to Irfan bhai as well on the possibilities of Indian Premier League. I don’t think there is time for IPL this year. Our T20I World Cup may also get pushed. Everything has come to a stop. We have to reschedule everything. We have to see where to place everything, accordingly. Hence, I don’t feel the IPL will be possible,” he said. However, Shami is of the view that if lockdown ends early then IPL 2020 can be held later in the year. The Indian pacer added that IPL could provide a platform for players to get into the rhythm and regain their form before the T20 World Cup. ALSO READ: "I too feel the pressure": MS Dhoni opens up on the issue of mental health “We have to wait and see how long our lockdown lasts. If our lockdown gets over early, then we may see IPL happen this year - even though later in the year. It will be great if IPL happens before the T20 World Cup, as the players can get used to the format, and also get back to their rhythm.” Like to Ajinkya Rahane, Shami also feels players would need at least a month to get back into shape and match-day rhythm. “The sports person’s body needs to get used to the scenario. Every player needs time to get the groove and rhythm back. Players need at least a month to get back into shape. 95 per cent of my sports stars are stuck inside their house. They cannot do many activities. So, they need time to get back on the field,” he said.

"I don’t feel IPL will be possible this year": India and KXIP pacer Mohammed Shami

Senior Indian batsman Ajinkya Rahane reckons that Namaste and clapping would replace handshakes and high-fives when cricket resumes post-COVID-19 pandemic. The vice-captain of the Indian Test team is also of the view that cricket should resume only when there’s a vaccine available to fight the virus.&nbsp;

Celebrating a dismissal of wicket might look completely different for the fielding side as Rahane said that a player might stand-still and clap to celebrate a fall of a wicket, just like the old times. However, Rahane stated that nothing can be taken for granted once sports resumes and safety of the fans will be of utmost importance while adding that there will be changes in lifestyle while travelling.&nbsp;

"I think we might go back to the good old days when fielders would still stand in their designated positions after the fall of a wicket and clap," Rahane said in an online briefing.

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"Maybe handshakes will be replaced by a namaste," he added, referring to the Indian greeting where both hands are brought together in front of the chest.

"But once sport resumes, you can't take anything for granted. The safety of the fans will be of utmost importance. There will be changes in lifestyle while travelling."

With cricket action paused for almost three months due to COVID-19 pandemic, Rahane said that players would need three to four weeks of complete practice to regain their rhythm.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-too-feel-the-pressure-ms-dhoni-opens-up-on-the-issue-of-mental-health-297216" hreflang="en">"I too feel the pressure": MS Dhoni opens up on the issue of mental health</a>

"We would be needing three to four weeks of proper practice before playing any kind of competitive game," said Rahane, speaking as brand ambassador of the ELSA (English Language Speech Assistant) app.

"I am missing my batting. But obviously, cricket should only start when we get a vaccine to fight the virus," Rahane concluded. 
&nbsp;

Senior Indian batsman Ajinkya Rahane reckons that Namaste and clapping would replace handshakes and high-fives when cricket resumes post-COVID-19 pandemic. The vice-captain of the Indian Test team is also of the view that cricket should resume only when there’s a vaccine available to fight the virus.

Senior Indian batsman Ajinkya Rahane reckons that Namaste and clapping would replace handshakes and high-fives when cricket resumes post-COVID-19 pandemic. The vice-captain of the Indian Test team is also of the view that cricket should resume only when there’s a vaccine available to fight the virus. Celebrating a dismissal of wicket might look completely different for the fielding side as Rahane said that a player might stand-still and clap to celebrate a fall of a wicket, just like the old times. However, Rahane stated that nothing can be taken for granted once sports resumes and safety of the fans will be of utmost importance while adding that there will be changes in lifestyle while travelling. "I think we might go back to the good old days when fielders would still stand in their designated positions after the fall of a wicket and clap," Rahane said in an online briefing. ALSO READ: 'Indian hero' - Moldovan tennis player feeds poor in lockdown "Maybe handshakes will be replaced by a namaste," he added, referring to the Indian greeting where both hands are brought together in front of the chest. "But once sport resumes, you can't take anything for granted. The safety of the fans will be of utmost importance. There will be changes in lifestyle while travelling." With cricket action paused for almost three months due to COVID-19 pandemic, Rahane said that players would need three to four weeks of complete practice to regain their rhythm. ALSO READ: "I too feel the pressure": MS Dhoni opens up on the issue of mental health "We would be needing three to four weeks of proper practice before playing any kind of competitive game," said Rahane, speaking as brand ambassador of the ELSA (English Language Speech Assistant) app. "I am missing my batting. But obviously, cricket should only start when we get a vaccine to fight the virus," Rahane concluded.

"Cricket should only start when...": Ajinkya Rahane on resumption of sports

Former India skipper and veteran cricketer, MS Dhoni has been long regarded as ‘Captain Cool’ for his ice-cool demeanour and the way he conducts himself during crunch matches. While fans and experts have long lauded his ability to keep calm during humdingers, Dhoni has said he too feels the pressure when he walks out to bat.&nbsp;

Dhoni’s ability to remain unmoved during the pressure-situation has helped India win all the major ICC trophies under his captaincy and he remains the only captain to achieve the feat. However, the former Indian captain reckons that in India, people term weakness related to mental aspects as mental illness. &nbsp;

Dhoni has lent support to MFORE, who are offering mind conditioning programs to achieve optimum performance levels in sports. And as per MFORE, Dhoni made the comments while interacting with coaches from various sports, before India went into lockdown to curb the spread of COVID-19.

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“In India, I feel there is still a big issue of accepting that there is some weakness when it comes to the mental aspects, but we generally term it as mental illness,” Dhoni was quoted as saying in a press release issued by MFORE.

“Nobody really says that, when I go to bat, the first 5 to 10 deliveries my heart rate is elevated, I feel the pressure, I feel a bit scared because that’s how everybody feels - how to cope with that?” the World Cup-winning legend asked.

“This is a small problem but a lot of times we hesitate to say it to a coach and that’s why the relationship between a player and coach is very important be it any sport,” said Dhoni, who hasn’t played any international cricket since India’s World Cup semifinal exit last July.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/vizag-gas-leak-from-virat-kohli-to-yuvraj-singh-sports-fraternity-extend-condolences-to-families-affected-297176" hreflang="en">Vizag gas leak: From Virat Kohli to Yuvraj Singh, sports fraternity extend condolences to families affected</a>

Dhoni further emphasized on the need of having a regular mental conditioning coach and not someone who visits in 15 days.&nbsp;

“Mental conditioning coach should not be the one who comes for 15 days, because when you come for 15 days you are only sharing the experience.

“If the mental conditioning coach is constantly with the player, he can understand what are the areas which are affecting his sport,” Dhoni, who led Chennai Super Kings captain to three IPL titles, said. 
&nbsp;

Former India skipper and veteran cricketer, MS Dhoni has been long regarded as ‘Captain Cool’ for his ice-cool demeanour and the way he conducts himself during crunch matches.

Former India skipper and veteran cricketer, MS Dhoni has been long regarded as ‘Captain Cool’ for his ice-cool demeanour and the way he conducts himself during crunch matches. While fans and experts have long lauded his ability to keep calm during humdingers, Dhoni has said he too feels the pressure when he walks out to bat. Dhoni’s ability to remain unmoved during the pressure-situation has helped India win all the major ICC trophies under his captaincy and he remains the only captain to achieve the feat. However, the former Indian captain reckons that in India, people term weakness related to mental aspects as mental illness. Dhoni has lent support to MFORE, who are offering mind conditioning programs to achieve optimum performance levels in sports. And as per MFORE, Dhoni made the comments while interacting with coaches from various sports, before India went into lockdown to curb the spread of COVID-19. ALSO READ: Cricket Australia, ICC set to discuss fate of T20 World Cup: Report “In India, I feel there is still a big issue of accepting that there is some weakness when it comes to the mental aspects, but we generally term it as mental illness,” Dhoni was quoted as saying in a press release issued by MFORE. “Nobody really says that, when I go to bat, the first 5 to 10 deliveries my heart rate is elevated, I feel the pressure, I feel a bit scared because that’s how everybody feels - how to cope with that?” the World Cup-winning legend asked. “This is a small problem but a lot of times we hesitate to say it to a coach and that’s why the relationship between a player and coach is very important be it any sport,” said Dhoni, who hasn’t played any international cricket since India’s World Cup semifinal exit last July. ALSO READ: Vizag gas leak: From Virat Kohli to Yuvraj Singh, sports fraternity extend condolences to families affected Dhoni further emphasized on the need of having a regular mental conditioning coach and not someone who visits in 15 days. “Mental conditioning coach should not be the one who comes for 15 days, because when you come for 15 days you are only sharing the experience. “If the mental conditioning coach is constantly with the player, he can understand what are the areas which are affecting his sport,” Dhoni, who led Chennai Super Kings captain to three IPL titles, said.

"I too feel the pressure": MS Dhoni opens up on the issue of mental health

Cricket Australia (CA) is all set to discuss the fate of ICC T20 World Cup with the International Cricket Council on Friday (May 8) with dark clouds hovering over the future of the showpiece event due to extended travel restrictions in Australia. The CA will conduct a teleconference meeting with the apex cricket board to discuss the prospect of hosting the tournament, as per a report.&nbsp;

The CA has been pretty optimistic about hosting the marquee event in October-November. However, there have been calls from the cricketing fraternity that the event, without fans, will lose the element of being the biggest cricket tournament of the year. &nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/vizag-gas-leak-from-virat-kohli-to-yuvraj-singh-sports-fraternity-extend-condolences-to-families-affected-297176" hreflang="en">Vizag gas leak: From Virat Kohli to Yuvraj Singh, sports fraternity extend condolences to families affected</a>

"CA remains optimistic the 2020-21 men's and women's home summer - scheduled to begin with the men's T20 World Cup in October and November - will proceed, whether in empty stadia if social distancing restrictions remain in place or as relevant crowd guidelines allow," a release from the board in April said.

Cricket Australia is likely to buy more time from ICC in Friday‘s meeting and a definite conclusion surrounding the T20 World Cup is expected from the teleconference. Australia is scheduled to host the T20 World Cup from October 18 to November 15 with the next edition scheduled to be played in India in the year 2021.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-get-depressed-when-pakistans-wasim-akram-reacts-to-aamir-sohails-allegations-297155" hreflang="en">'I get depressed when...' - Pakistan's Wasim Akram reacts to Aamir Sohail's allegations</a>

The Australian board is also optimistic of hosting India in the scheduled four-match Test series later in the year 2020 with a possibility of extending the series into a five-match rubber.&nbsp;

Cricket Australia (CA) is all set to discuss the fate of ICC T20 World Cup with the International Cricket Council on Friday (May 8) with dark clouds hovering over the future of the showpiece event due to extended travel restrictions in Australia.

Cricket Australia (CA) is all set to discuss the fate of ICC T20 World Cup with the International Cricket Council on Friday (May 8) with dark clouds hovering over the future of the showpiece event due to extended travel restrictions in Australia. The CA will conduct a teleconference meeting with the apex cricket board to discuss the prospect of hosting the tournament, as per a report. The CA has been pretty optimistic about hosting the marquee event in October-November. However, there have been calls from the cricketing fraternity that the event, without fans, will lose the element of being the biggest cricket tournament of the year. ALSO READ: Vizag gas leak: From Virat Kohli to Yuvraj Singh, sports fraternity extend condolences to families affected "CA remains optimistic the 2020-21 men's and women's home summer - scheduled to begin with the men's T20 World Cup in October and November - will proceed, whether in empty stadia if social distancing restrictions remain in place or as relevant crowd guidelines allow," a release from the board in April said. Cricket Australia is likely to buy more time from ICC in Friday‘s meeting and a definite conclusion surrounding the T20 World Cup is expected from the teleconference. Australia is scheduled to host the T20 World Cup from October 18 to November 15 with the next edition scheduled to be played in India in the year 2021. ALSO READ: 'I get depressed when...' - Pakistan's Wasim Akram reacts to Aamir Sohail's allegations The Australian board is also optimistic of hosting India in the scheduled four-match Test series later in the year 2020 with a possibility of extending the series into a five-match rubber.

Cricket Australia, ICC set to discuss fate of T20 World Cup: Report

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