<p>There have been a lot of discussions and debate since former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar proposed the idea of playing a three-match series between India and Pakistan in a bid to raise funds to combat COVID-19 pandemic. Former Pakistan spinner Saqlain Mushtaq is latest to join the bandwagon as he said that cricket is just a game and not war while further opining that cricket should be played between both the countries.</p>

<p>Mushtaq is of the view that the job of sportspersons is to do good deeds and hence people call them heroes. Indian cricketers Kapil Dev and Sunil Gavaskar, among others, have already expressed their opinions on Akhtar's proposal.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jofra-archer-said-he-had-gone-mad-when-he-realised-he-lost-his-world-cup-medal-295007" hreflang="en">Jofra Archer said he had 'gone mad' when he realised he lost his World Cup medal</a></strong></p>

<p>"What do you call sportspersons? You call them heroes and what is their job? Their job is to do good deeds. Winning and losing is part of the game. Cricket is not war. That is why I feel cricket should be played between the two countries," the creator of the 'Doosra' told news agency PTI. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>A lot has been said about how Pakistan has been suffering for not being able to play bilateral series against India with members of Pakistan Cricket Board agreeing to the fact that it is always a financial blow if there is no series against India. However, Mushtaq said that playing cricket between India and Pakistan is not simply for higher revenues as there are possibilities of relations improving between both the nations if cricket is resumed.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/people-said-i-wont-play-for-long-jasprit-bumrah-reveals-how-he-persisted-with-his-action-to-make-team-india-dream-a-reality-295005" hreflang="en">‘People said I won't play for long’: Jasprit Bumrah reveals how he persisted with his action to make Team India dream a reality</a></strong></p>

<p>Mushtaq also downplayed the financial constraints and said rubbished the claims suggesting that Pakistan cricket will eventually suffer because of not playing with arch-rivals India. "To say that Pakistan cricket will suffer because of not playing India is the not right way to look at this. The bigger picture is that the game should be promoted on both sides. And if we do play, there is a possibility of relations improving," Mushtaq added.</p>

<p>"Sachin and Shane Warne had organised All Stars matches in America (in 2015). You won't believe I saw a flag with colours of both India and Pakistan flags. An Indian and Pakistani were holding that together. It brought the two nations closer. I would request the ICC too look into this. Financially also, it is a win-win for both BCCI and PCB. The series is much bigger than the Ashes," Mushtaq concluded. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


There have been a lot of discussions and debate since former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar proposed the idea of playing a three-match series between India and Pakistan in a bid to raise funds to combat COVID-19 pandemic.

There have been a lot of discussions and debate since former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar proposed the idea of playing a three-match series between India and Pakistan in a bid to raise funds to combat COVID-19 pandemic. Former Pakistan spinner Saqlain Mushtaq is latest to join the bandwagon as he said that cricket is just a game and not war while further opining that cricket should be played between both the countries. Mushtaq is of the view that the job of sportspersons is to do good deeds and hence people call them heroes. Indian cricketers Kapil Dev and Sunil Gavaskar, among others, have already expressed their opinions on Akhtar's proposal. ALSO READ: Jofra Archer said he had 'gone mad' when he realised he lost his World Cup medal "What do you call sportspersons? You call them heroes and what is their job? Their job is to do good deeds. Winning and losing is part of the game. Cricket is not war. That is why I feel cricket should be played between the two countries," the creator of the 'Doosra' told news agency PTI. A lot has been said about how Pakistan has been suffering for not being able to play bilateral series against India with members of Pakistan Cricket Board agreeing to the fact that it is always a financial blow if there is no series against India. However, Mushtaq said that playing cricket between India and Pakistan is not simply for higher revenues as there are possibilities of relations improving between both the nations if cricket is resumed. ALSO READ: ‘People said I won't play for long’: Jasprit Bumrah reveals how he persisted with his action to make Team India dream a reality Mushtaq also downplayed the financial constraints and said rubbished the claims suggesting that Pakistan cricket will eventually suffer because of not playing with arch-rivals India. "To say that Pakistan cricket will suffer because of not playing India is the not right way to look at this. The bigger picture is that the game should be promoted on both sides. And if we do play, there is a possibility of relations improving," Mushtaq added. "Sachin and Shane Warne had organised All Stars matches in America (in 2015). You won't believe I saw a flag with colours of both India and Pakistan flags. An Indian and Pakistani were holding that together. It brought the two nations closer. I would request the ICC too look into this. Financially also, it is a win-win for both BCCI and PCB. The series is much bigger than the Ashes," Mushtaq concluded.

Cricket is not war; should be played between India and Pakistan - Saqlain Mushtaq throws his weight behind Indo-Pak bilateral series

<p>Over the past few years, Jasprit Bumrah has become one of the key members of the Indian cricket team across formats. A bowler, who shot to fame for his uncanny action, has bamboozled world-class batsmen with his deadly yorkers and fierce bowling, Bumrah didn’t take much time to become a mainstay in international cricket and has been hailed as one of the greatest pacers to have played for India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Bumrah has revealed that people told him that he won’t play for long and the maximum he could achieve is Ranji Trophy appearances while adding he persisted with his action and kept on improving to make his Team India dream a reality.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-is-not-war-should-be-played-between-india-and-pakistan-saqlain-mushtaq-throws-his-weight-behind-indo-pak-bilateral-series-295028" hreflang="en">Cricket is not war, should be played between India and Pakistan: Saqlain Mushtaq throws his weight behind Indo-Pak bilateral series</a></strong></p>

<p>“Many people told me that I won’t play for long, there was an expectation that the last person to play for the country would be me,” said Bumrah when Yuvraj asked him about his high-arm bowling action during an Instagram Live session.</p>

<p>“They told me that I would just play the Ranji Trophy. But I kept on improving and I persisted with my action,” he further added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jofra-archer-said-he-had-gone-mad-when-he-realised-he-lost-his-world-cup-medal-295007" hreflang="en">Jofra Archer said he had 'gone mad' when he realised he lost his World Cup medal</a></strong></p>

<p>Bumrah has played 64 ODIS, 50 T20Is and 14 Tests for India and has been a success in whichever country he has toured thus far. Earlier, even Kohli lauded Bumrah highly as the Indian skipper said that belief can lead you to greater heights and the Indian pacer is defying all odds to be one of the greatest of all-time. &nbsp;</p>

<p>“He is proving people wrong [when they say] that there is a set template for every format. If you have&nbsp;belief, you can play every format. I totally vouch for that as well. He definitely has the mindset to succeed in all three formats and wants to be the best in the world,” Kohli spoke about Bumrah after his exploits on the West Indies tour.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Over the past few years, Jasprit Bumrah has become one of the key members of the Indian cricket team across formats. A bowler, who shot to fame for his uncanny action, has bamboozled world-class batsmen with his deadly yorkers and fierce bowling, Bumrah didn’t take much time to become a mainstay in international cricket and has been hailed as one of the greatest pacers to have played for India.

Over the past few years, Jasprit Bumrah has become one of the key members of the Indian cricket team across formats. A bowler, who shot to fame for his uncanny action, has bamboozled world-class batsmen with his deadly yorkers and fierce bowling, Bumrah didn’t take much time to become a mainstay in international cricket and has been hailed as one of the greatest pacers to have played for India. However, Bumrah has revealed that people told him that he won’t play for long and the maximum he could achieve is Ranji Trophy appearances while adding he persisted with his action and kept on improving to make his Team India dream a reality. ALSO READ: Cricket is not war, should be played between India and Pakistan: Saqlain Mushtaq throws his weight behind Indo-Pak bilateral series “Many people told me that I won’t play for long, there was an expectation that the last person to play for the country would be me,” said Bumrah when Yuvraj asked him about his high-arm bowling action during an Instagram Live session. “They told me that I would just play the Ranji Trophy. But I kept on improving and I persisted with my action,” he further added. ALSO READ: Jofra Archer said he had 'gone mad' when he realised he lost his World Cup medal Bumrah has played 64 ODIS, 50 T20Is and 14 Tests for India and has been a success in whichever country he has toured thus far. Earlier, even Kohli lauded Bumrah highly as the Indian skipper said that belief can lead you to greater heights and the Indian pacer is defying all odds to be one of the greatest of all-time. “He is proving people wrong [when they say] that there is a set template for every format. If you have belief, you can play every format. I totally vouch for that as well. He definitely has the mindset to succeed in all three formats and wants to be the best in the world,” Kohli spoke about Bumrah after his exploits on the West Indies tour.

‘People said I won't play for long’: Jasprit Bumrah reveals how he persisted with his action to make Team India dream a reality

<p>As almost the entire world continues to fight against the dreaded COVID-19 pandemic, sportspersons have come forward and donated their bit to help their respective government fight the virus. Stepping forward once again, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) duo Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers have decided to auction memorabilia from their record-shattering match against Gujarat Lions in the 2016 edition of Indian Premier League (IPL).</p>

<p>Both Kohli and de Villiers took to social media platform Instagram to announce that Kohli’s bat and gloves and de Villiers’ shit and bat from the match will be auctioned to raise funds to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. In the match, both Kohli and de Villiers had scored a century each in a blistering partnership of 229 runs off 96 deliveries to help RCB post a mammoth total of 248/4.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-is-not-war-should-be-played-between-india-and-pakistan-saqlain-mushtaq-throws-his-weight-behind-indo-pak-bilateral-series-295028" hreflang="en">Cricket is not war; should be played between India and Pakistan - Saqlain Mushtaq throws his weight behind Indo-Pak bilateral series</a></strong></p>

<p>Kohli, taking to Instagram, wrote while sharing de Villiers’ post: &nbsp;"I'm glad to be doing this with my very dear friend @abdevilliers17 . All details are mentioned below and more will be communicated in time."</p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B_eirM2lkAc/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">I'm glad to be doing this with my very dear friend @abdevilliers17 . All details are mentioned below and more will be communicated in time. #Repost @abdevilliers17 ・・・ Cricket has given me many incredible memories - and, among the most precious, stands the partnership with @virat.kohli , playing for RCB and against Gujarat Lions in 2016. Everything clicked on what was a truly unforgettable night at the IPL. The capacity crowd at the M. Chinnaswamy stadium were going crazy, and we both scored centuries in a partnership of 229 runs from 96 balls. More importantly, RCB won the match by 144 runs. Now we find ourselves in a global crisis caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, and Virat and I would like to help people in need, people struggling to put food on the table. So we are donating some of the key items from that special day in 2016 - Virat’s bat and gloves, my shirt and bat - and creating one unique auction item, on the Bid or Buy online platform(link in my bio-type key words in the search button to find the piece). All money raised will be donated to charities supporting people most severely affected by the crisis, split 50/50 between charities working in SA and India. Immediately after the auction closes on 10 May, 2020, I will personally contact the winner and make arrangements for the package to be delivered to your home. Take care and stay safe.</a></p>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/virat.kohli/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Virat Kohli</a> (@virat.kohli) on <time datetime="2020-04-27T08:14:17+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Apr 27, 2020 at 1:14am PDT</time></p>
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<p>The funds raised from the auction will go to the charities working in India and South Africa on 50-50 split.</p>

<p>“Cricket has given me many incredible memories - and, among the most precious, stands the partnership with @virat.kohli , playing for RCB and against Gujarat Lions in 2016. Everything clicked on what was a truly unforgettable night at the IPL. The capacity crowd at the M. Chinnaswamy stadium were going crazy, and we both scored centuries in a partnership of 229 runs from 96 balls. More importantly, RCB won the match by 144 runs,” de Villiers wrote on Instagram.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/people-said-i-wont-play-for-long-jasprit-bumrah-reveals-how-he-persisted-with-his-action-to-make-team-india-dream-a-reality-295005" hreflang="en">‘People said I won't play for long’: Jasprit Bumrah reveals how he persisted with his action to make Team India dream a reality</a></strong></p>

<p>“Now we find ourselves in a global crisis caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, and Virat and I would like to help people in need, people struggling to put food on the table.</p>

<p>“So we are donating some of the key items from that special day in 2016 - Virat’s bat and gloves, my shirt and bat - and creating one unique auction item, on the Bid or Buy online platform(link in my bio-type key words in the search button to find the piece). All money raised will be donated to charities supporting people most severely affected by the crisis, split 50/50 between charities working in SA and India.</p>

<p>“Immediately after the auction closes on 10 May, 2020, I will personally contact the winner and make arrangements for the package to be delivered to your home. Take care and stay safe.”</p>

<p>In normal circumstances, Kohli and de Villiers would have been playing in IPL 2020 for RCB but the COVID-19 pandemic has led to the cash-rich tournament getting postponed indefinitely. &nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


As almost the entire world continues to fight against the dreaded COVID-19 pandemic, sportspersons have come forward and donated their bit to help their respective government fight the virus.

As almost the entire world continues to fight against the dreaded COVID-19 pandemic, sportspersons have come forward and donated their bit to help their respective government fight the virus. Stepping forward once again, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) duo Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers have decided to auction memorabilia from their record-shattering match against Gujarat Lions in the 2016 edition of Indian Premier League (IPL). Both Kohli and de Villiers took to social media platform Instagram to announce that Kohli’s bat and gloves and de Villiers’ shit and bat from the match will be auctioned to raise funds to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. In the match, both Kohli and de Villiers had scored a century each in a blistering partnership of 229 runs off 96 deliveries to help RCB post a mammoth total of 248/4. ALSO READ: Cricket is not war; should be played between India and Pakistan - Saqlain Mushtaq throws his weight behind Indo-Pak bilateral series Kohli, taking to Instagram, wrote while sharing de Villiers’ post: "I'm glad to be doing this with my very dear friend @abdevilliers17 . All details are mentioned below and more will be communicated in time." View this post on Instagram I'm glad to be doing this with my very dear friend @abdevilliers17 . All details are mentioned below and more will be communicated in time. #Repost @abdevilliers17 ・・・ Cricket has given me many incredible memories - and, among the most precious, stands the partnership with @virat.kohli , playing for RCB and against Gujarat Lions in 2016. Everything clicked on what was a truly unforgettable night at the IPL. The capacity crowd at the M. Chinnaswamy stadium were going crazy, and we both scored centuries in a partnership of 229 runs from 96 balls. More importantly, RCB won the match by 144 runs. Now we find ourselves in a global crisis caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, and Virat and I would like to help people in need, people struggling to put food on the table. So we are donating some of the key items from that special day in 2016 - Virat’s bat and gloves, my shirt and bat - and creating one unique auction item, on the Bid or Buy online platform(link in my bio-type key words in the search button to find the piece). All money raised will be donated to charities supporting people most severely affected by the crisis, split 50/50 between charities working in SA and India. Immediately after the auction closes on 10 May, 2020, I will personally contact the winner and make arrangements for the package to be delivered to your home. Take care and stay safe. A post shared by Virat Kohli (@virat.kohli) on Apr 27, 2020 at 1:14am PDT × The funds raised from the auction will go to the charities working in India and South Africa on 50-50 split. “Cricket has given me many incredible memories - and, among the most precious, stands the partnership with @virat.kohli , playing for RCB and against Gujarat Lions in 2016. Everything clicked on what was a truly unforgettable night at the IPL. The capacity crowd at the M. Chinnaswamy stadium were going crazy, and we both scored centuries in a partnership of 229 runs from 96 balls. More importantly, RCB won the match by 144 runs,” de Villiers wrote on Instagram. ALSO READ: ‘People said I won't play for long’: Jasprit Bumrah reveals how he persisted with his action to make Team India dream a reality “Now we find ourselves in a global crisis caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, and Virat and I would like to help people in need, people struggling to put food on the table. “So we are donating some of the key items from that special day in 2016 - Virat’s bat and gloves, my shirt and bat - and creating one unique auction item, on the Bid or Buy online platform(link in my bio-type key words in the search button to find the piece). All money raised will be donated to charities supporting people most severely affected by the crisis, split 50/50 between charities working in SA and India. “Immediately after the auction closes on 10 May, 2020, I will personally contact the winner and make arrangements for the package to be delivered to your home. Take care and stay safe.” In normal circumstances, Kohli and de Villiers would have been playing in IPL 2020 for RCB but the COVID-19 pandemic has led to the cash-rich tournament getting postponed indefinitely.

RCB's Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers put memorabilia from IPL 2016 on auction to raise funds in battle against COVID-19

<p>India's limited-overs vice-captain Rohit Sharma says he has no idea "what's happening" with elusive former captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni, about whom he hasn't heard anything since India's semifinal exit from the World Cup last year.</p>

<p>With the IPL postponed indefinitely, the chances of an improbable India comeback look even more bleak for Dhoni, who has not played cricket for months now.</p>

<p>During an Instagram chat with former India spinner Harbhajan Singh, Rohit said that he has "no news about Dhoni".</p>

<p>"We don't know what's happening with him. We haven't heard any news about him. The last match of the World Cup was in July. From there, till now we haven't heard anything, I have no idea," Rohit said during the live chat.</p>

<p>In his typical tongue-in-cheek manner, Rohit said that anyone who wants to know about Dhoni should personally contact him.</p>

<p>"When MS Dhoni is not playing cricket, he goes out of radar. He goes underground. Whoever wants to know, you can directly go to him, you know he stays in Ranchi.</p>

<p>"You can't go now but after the lockdown, you take a car, bike or flight go to his place and ask him 'What are you going to do? Will you play or not?" he quipped.</p>

<p>Earlier India coach Ravi Shastri had said that IPL would have decided Dhoni's fate while legends like Sunil Gavaskar and Kapil Dev feel that it is difficult for him to make a comeback after such a long self-imposed exile.</p>


India's limited-overs vice-captain Rohit Sharma says he has no idea "what's happening" with elusive former captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni, about whom he hasn't heard anything since India's semifinal exit from the World Cup last year.

India's limited-overs vice-captain Rohit Sharma says he has no idea "what's happening" with elusive former captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni, about whom he hasn't heard anything since India's semifinal exit from the World Cup last year. With the IPL postponed indefinitely, the chances of an improbable India comeback look even more bleak for Dhoni, who has not played cricket for months now. During an Instagram chat with former India spinner Harbhajan Singh, Rohit said that he has "no news about Dhoni". "We don't know what's happening with him. We haven't heard any news about him. The last match of the World Cup was in July. From there, till now we haven't heard anything, I have no idea," Rohit said during the live chat. In his typical tongue-in-cheek manner, Rohit said that anyone who wants to know about Dhoni should personally contact him. "When MS Dhoni is not playing cricket, he goes out of radar. He goes underground. Whoever wants to know, you can directly go to him, you know he stays in Ranchi. "You can't go now but after the lockdown, you take a car, bike or flight go to his place and ask him 'What are you going to do? Will you play or not?" he quipped. Earlier India coach Ravi Shastri had said that IPL would have decided Dhoni's fate while legends like Sunil Gavaskar and Kapil Dev feel that it is difficult for him to make a comeback after such a long self-imposed exile.

Don't know what's happening with Dhoni, haven't heard since World Cup: Rohit Sharma

<p>As the entire cricketing fraternity celebrates Sachin Tendulkar’s 47th birthday, the 143-run knock by Master Blaster against Australia in the Coca Cola Cup, in Sharjah, in&nbsp;1998 has been voted as Tendulkar’s greatest innings in ODI cricket. The International Cricket Council (ICC) conducted a poll on the occasion of Tendulkar’s 47th birthday and after hours of voting, Tendulkar’s knock against Australia edged his cracking innings of 98 against Pakistan in the semi-final of ICC World Cup 2003. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Played 22 years ago, Tendulkar’s unforgettable ‘Desert Storm’ knock, in Sharjah, came in a losing cause but the Master Blaster made sure to hammer the Aussie bowling attack all over the park as he ended up slamming nine boundaries and five sixes.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ball-tampering-to-be-legalised-cricket-authorities-set-for-discussion-on-saliva-conondrum-in-wake-of-covid-19-294538" hreflang="en">Ball-tampering to be legalised? Cricket authorities set for discussion on saliva conondrum in wake of COVID-19</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">And we have a winner<br />
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It was neck and neck, but in the end, Tendulkar’s unforgettable 'Desert Storm' knock of 143 in Sharjah has been voted by you as his greatest ODI innings <a href="https://t.co/as9pK6OnXt">pic.twitter.com/as9pK6OnXt</a></p>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1253633592774651904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Chasing 277 off 46 overs, India fell short by 26 runs but Tendulkar’s onslaught made sure India qualify to the final. Tendulkar followed it up with a thunderous 134 in the final to help India lift the Coca Cola Cup.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">DESERT STORM <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OnThisDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OnThisDay</a> in 1998, Sachin Tendulkar smashed a 143 off 131 balls against Australia to seal India's place in the final of the Sharjah Cup!<br />
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Do you remember the battle between these legends? <a href="https://t.co/6SZVckZWwv">pic.twitter.com/6SZVckZWwv</a></p>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1252801805521731587?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Damien Fleming, one of the main-stay of the Aussie bowling attack that time, recalled Tendulkar’s knock as he said the Master Blaster was the best batsman he bowled during the 1998 tour of India.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wont-accept-rescheduling-of-asia-cup-for-ipl-2020-pcb-ceo-wasim-khan-294487" hreflang="en">Won't accept rescheduling of Asia Cup for IPL 2020: PCB CEO Wasim Khan</a></strong></p>

<p>“I remember halfway through the innings, they put ‘Happy 25th Birthday Sachin Tendulkar’ on the scoreboard. It drew a massive roar from the crowd and he seemed to kick on from there, taking more control. As he brought up his hundred, there was another massive cheer. The game drifted away from us. As we were losing, they put up ‘Happy 27th Birthday Damien Fleming.’ And it was booed by 15 thousand people,” Fleming told a leading daily.</p>

<p>“I am not sure how Sachin looked at his batting at that stage but that was the best batsman I bowled during the 1998 tour of India. He carried his form to Sharjah, scoring big hundreds. The final itself was amazing. We had a great team and scored a lot of runs in final,” Fleming remembered.</p>


As the entire cricketing fraternity celebrates Sachin Tendulkar’s 47th birthday, the 143-run knock by Master Blaster against Australia in the Coca Cola Cup, in Sharjah, in 1998 has been voted as Tendulkar’s greatest innings in ODI cricket.

As the entire cricketing fraternity celebrates Sachin Tendulkar’s 47th birthday, the 143-run knock by Master Blaster against Australia in the Coca Cola Cup, in Sharjah, in 1998 has been voted as Tendulkar’s greatest innings in ODI cricket. The International Cricket Council (ICC) conducted a poll on the occasion of Tendulkar’s 47th birthday and after hours of voting, Tendulkar’s knock against Australia edged his cracking innings of 98 against Pakistan in the semi-final of ICC World Cup 2003. Played 22 years ago, Tendulkar’s unforgettable ‘Desert Storm’ knock, in Sharjah, came in a losing cause but the Master Blaster made sure to hammer the Aussie bowling attack all over the park as he ended up slamming nine boundaries and five sixes. ALSO READ: Ball-tampering to be legalised? Cricket authorities set for discussion on saliva conondrum in wake of COVID-19 And we have a winner It was neck and neck, but in the end, Tendulkar’s unforgettable 'Desert Storm' knock of 143 in Sharjah has been voted by you as his greatest ODI innings pic.twitter.com/as9pK6OnXt — ICC (@ICC) April 24, 2020 × Chasing 277 off 46 overs, India fell short by 26 runs but Tendulkar’s onslaught made sure India qualify to the final. Tendulkar followed it up with a thunderous 134 in the final to help India lift the Coca Cola Cup. DESERT STORM #OnThisDay in 1998, Sachin Tendulkar smashed a 143 off 131 balls against Australia to seal India's place in the final of the Sharjah Cup! Do you remember the battle between these legends? pic.twitter.com/6SZVckZWwv — ICC (@ICC) April 22, 2020 × Damien Fleming, one of the main-stay of the Aussie bowling attack that time, recalled Tendulkar’s knock as he said the Master Blaster was the best batsman he bowled during the 1998 tour of India. ALSO READ: Won't accept rescheduling of Asia Cup for IPL 2020: PCB CEO Wasim Khan “I remember halfway through the innings, they put ‘Happy 25th Birthday Sachin Tendulkar’ on the scoreboard. It drew a massive roar from the crowd and he seemed to kick on from there, taking more control. As he brought up his hundred, there was another massive cheer. The game drifted away from us. As we were losing, they put up ‘Happy 27th Birthday Damien Fleming.’ And it was booed by 15 thousand people,” Fleming told a leading daily. “I am not sure how Sachin looked at his batting at that stage but that was the best batsman I bowled during the 1998 tour of India. He carried his form to Sharjah, scoring big hundreds. The final itself was amazing. We had a great team and scored a lot of runs in final,” Fleming remembered.

'Desert Storm' voted as Sachin Tendulkar's greatest ODI knock, edges out 98 vs Pakistan in 2003 WC

<p>International Cricket Council chairman Shashank Manohar, who is expected to step down in June, might get a couple of months' extension as the ICC's Board Meeting is set to be postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.</p>

<p>In all likelihood, England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) chairman Colin Graves will replace the former BCCI president, who, it is learnt, has decided against seeking an extension for a third two-year-term.</p>

<p>"This is for sure that Manohar is going but he will probably stay on for another two months as the annual Board Meeting in June looks highly unlikely at the moment considering the global situation," an ICC Board member told PTI on conditions of anonymity.</p>

<p>"So it might be in August that ICC will have a new chairman," he added.</p>

<p>The BCCI, however, remains wary of the Vidarbha lawyer, who was seen as an adversary by some in the Indian Board.</p>

<p>"Till Manohar steps down officially, I will not like to believe (anything). Seeing is believing. He still has a term left. If he decides at the last moment that he wants to continue then it will be a different story," a BCCI veteran said.</p>

<p>Hong Kong's Imran Khawaja's name was initially floated as Manohar's possible successor, but it is understood that he doesn't have the support of the full members.</p>

<p>ECB chairman Graves, who is supposed to step down from his country's board in November 2020, has emerged as the favourite for the ICC top job.</p>

<p>Those in the know of ICC's board room politics feel that Graves' biggest advantage at this point is support from all the major Test-playing nations.</p>

<p>"England, New Zealand, Australia and West Indies will support Graves' candidature. He also shares a great rapport with BCCI although the world's richest cricket board has not openly supported any candidate," the Board member said.</p>

<p>It is expected that BCCI will have a better working relationship with Graves compared to Manohar, whom they have time and again accused of not keeping Indian interest in mind unlike the times of N Srinivasan.</p>

<p>At ECB, Graves will be succeeded by former FA Chief Executive Ian Whatmore.</p>


International Cricket Council chairman Shashank Manohar, who is expected to step down in June, might get a couple of months' extension as the ICC's Board Meeting is set to be postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

International Cricket Council chairman Shashank Manohar, who is expected to step down in June, might get a couple of months' extension as the ICC's Board Meeting is set to be postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In all likelihood, England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) chairman Colin Graves will replace the former BCCI president, who, it is learnt, has decided against seeking an extension for a third two-year-term. "This is for sure that Manohar is going but he will probably stay on for another two months as the annual Board Meeting in June looks highly unlikely at the moment considering the global situation," an ICC Board member told PTI on conditions of anonymity. "So it might be in August that ICC will have a new chairman," he added. The BCCI, however, remains wary of the Vidarbha lawyer, who was seen as an adversary by some in the Indian Board. "Till Manohar steps down officially, I will not like to believe (anything). Seeing is believing. He still has a term left. If he decides at the last moment that he wants to continue then it will be a different story," a BCCI veteran said. Hong Kong's Imran Khawaja's name was initially floated as Manohar's possible successor, but it is understood that he doesn't have the support of the full members. ECB chairman Graves, who is supposed to step down from his country's board in November 2020, has emerged as the favourite for the ICC top job. Those in the know of ICC's board room politics feel that Graves' biggest advantage at this point is support from all the major Test-playing nations. "England, New Zealand, Australia and West Indies will support Graves' candidature. He also shares a great rapport with BCCI although the world's richest cricket board has not openly supported any candidate," the Board member said. It is expected that BCCI will have a better working relationship with Graves compared to Manohar, whom they have time and again accused of not keeping Indian interest in mind unlike the times of N Srinivasan. At ECB, Graves will be succeeded by former FA Chief Executive Ian Whatmore.

Manohar may continue as ICC chairman for 2 extra months, Graves favourite to take

<p>SpiceJet is set to provide air ambulance to fly Asian Games gold-medallist boxer Dingko Singh from Imphal to Delhi in a bid to resume his treatment for liver cancer. The air ambulance service will be provided free of charge for the recipient of Padma Shri. India’s Sports Minister, Kiren Rijiju was quick to acknowledge SpiceJet’s move to provide air ambulance to Dingko as he took to Twitter to laud the airline company for their efforts.</p>

<p>“SpiceJet has been in forefront to help sportspersons and to promote sports. Providing air ambulance service to Asian Games boxing gold medallist and Padma Shri Dingko Singh for his liver cancer treatment in Delhi is an exemplary act by @flyspicejet @AjaySingh_SG,” wrote Rijiju on Friday.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">SpiceJet has been in forefront to help sportspersons and to promote sports. Providing air ambulance service to Asian Games boxing gold medallist and Padma Shri Dingko Singh for his liver cancer treatment in Delhi is an exemplary act by <a href="https://twitter.com/flyspicejet?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@flyspicejet</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AjaySingh_SG?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AjaySingh_SG</a> <a href="https://t.co/UdqRG5A1nI">https://t.co/UdqRG5A1nI</a></p>
— Kiren Rijiju (@KirenRijiju) <a href="https://twitter.com/KirenRijiju/status/1253614142021414912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>The decision to provide air ambulance to Dingko Singh was made by SpiceJet Chairman and Managing Director, Ajay Singh, who is also the president of Boxing Federation of India (BFI). Interestingly, the air ambulance service was launched by SpiceJet earlier this year with an aim to provide immediate assistance in case of critical emergencies.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wada-wants-answers-after-banned-suns-olympic-training-call-up-294468" hreflang="en">WADA wants answers after banned Sun's 'Olympic training call-up'</a></strong></p>

<p>"The air ambulance service will be provided free of charge to the Padma awardee," SpiceJet said in a statement.</p>

<p>"The decision to fly Dingko to Delhi was taken by SpiceJet Chairman and Managing Director Ajay Singh who is also the President of the Boxing Federation of India (BFI). The air ambulance service was launched by SpiceJet through its 100 per cent subsidiary this year with the aim to offer immediate assistance in case of critical emergencies," it added.</p>

<p>The 41-year-old, Dingko, was supposed to come to Delhi for his radiation therapy but couldn’t fly to the National Capital due to the ongoing lockdown, which is in place to curb the spread of COVID-19.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, the likes of Vijender Singh and Manoj Kumar stepped forward to raise funds for the boxing champion. The duo along with some other boxers and coaches connected over a WhatsApp group to raise over Rs 1 lakh, which was transferred directly to Dingko’s account.</p>

<p><img alt="Dingko Singh" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5a83be5f-5416-4535-8891-7eff18f4799c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_SAHK981217421100.jpg" /></p>

<p>"It was really unfortunate that Dingko Singh missed his treatment session due to the ongoing lockdown. It is a matter of great privilege for SpiceJet to offer its air ambulance service to our national hero and fly him from Imphal to Delhi for his treatment," Ajay Singh said.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/china-signals-world-cup-ambitions-with-new-football-stadiums-294472" hreflang="en">China signals World Cup ambitions with new football stadiums</a></strong></p>

<p>"Dingko Singh has won many big bouts for India and we pray that he emerges victorious in his fight against liver cancer. In these difficult times, all of us have a responsibility to assist our government and fellow citizens in every way possible," he added.</p>

<p>Dingko was contemplating travelling by road, from Imphal to Delhi, but the doctors advised him against it as prolonged travel would not be good for his health.&nbsp;</p>


SpiceJet is set to provide air ambulance to fly Asian Games gold-medallist boxer Dingko Singh from Imphal to Delhi in a bid to resume his treatment for liver cancer.

SpiceJet is set to provide air ambulance to fly Asian Games gold-medallist boxer Dingko Singh from Imphal to Delhi in a bid to resume his treatment for liver cancer. The air ambulance service will be provided free of charge for the recipient of Padma Shri. India’s Sports Minister, Kiren Rijiju was quick to acknowledge SpiceJet’s move to provide air ambulance to Dingko as he took to Twitter to laud the airline company for their efforts. “SpiceJet has been in forefront to help sportspersons and to promote sports. Providing air ambulance service to Asian Games boxing gold medallist and Padma Shri Dingko Singh for his liver cancer treatment in Delhi is an exemplary act by @flyspicejet @AjaySingh_SG,” wrote Rijiju on Friday. SpiceJet has been in forefront to help sportspersons and to promote sports. Providing air ambulance service to Asian Games boxing gold medallist and Padma Shri Dingko Singh for his liver cancer treatment in Delhi is an exemplary act by @flyspicejet @AjaySingh_SG https://t.co/UdqRG5A1nI — Kiren Rijiju (@KirenRijiju) April 24, 2020 × The decision to provide air ambulance to Dingko Singh was made by SpiceJet Chairman and Managing Director, Ajay Singh, who is also the president of Boxing Federation of India (BFI). Interestingly, the air ambulance service was launched by SpiceJet earlier this year with an aim to provide immediate assistance in case of critical emergencies. ALSO READ: WADA wants answers after banned Sun's 'Olympic training call-up' "The air ambulance service will be provided free of charge to the Padma awardee," SpiceJet said in a statement. "The decision to fly Dingko to Delhi was taken by SpiceJet Chairman and Managing Director Ajay Singh who is also the President of the Boxing Federation of India (BFI). The air ambulance service was launched by SpiceJet through its 100 per cent subsidiary this year with the aim to offer immediate assistance in case of critical emergencies," it added. The 41-year-old, Dingko, was supposed to come to Delhi for his radiation therapy but couldn’t fly to the National Capital due to the ongoing lockdown, which is in place to curb the spread of COVID-19. Earlier, the likes of Vijender Singh and Manoj Kumar stepped forward to raise funds for the boxing champion. The duo along with some other boxers and coaches connected over a WhatsApp group to raise over Rs 1 lakh, which was transferred directly to Dingko’s account. "It was really unfortunate that Dingko Singh missed his treatment session due to the ongoing lockdown. It is a matter of great privilege for SpiceJet to offer its air ambulance service to our national hero and fly him from Imphal to Delhi for his treatment," Ajay Singh said. ALSO READ: China signals World Cup ambitions with new football stadiums "Dingko Singh has won many big bouts for India and we pray that he emerges victorious in his fight against liver cancer. In these difficult times, all of us have a responsibility to assist our government and fellow citizens in every way possible," he added. Dingko was contemplating travelling by road, from Imphal to Delhi, but the doctors advised him against it as prolonged travel would not be good for his health.

'Exemplary act': SpiceJet to airlift boxer Dingko Singh from Imphal to Delhi for cancer treatment; receives plaudits from Kiren Rijiju

<p>With sporting calendar disrupted due to COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a lot of talks surrounding the future of Asia Cup 2020, IPL 2020 and ICC T20 World Cup. Speculations are rife that the BCCI is looking for September window to accommodate the already-postponed IPL 2020 in place of Asia Cup.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) CEO Wasim Khan has said that if Asia Cup is to be postponed then it will be only due to health safety and the Pakistan board will not agree to any rescheduling to free-up space for IPL.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-wont-play-for-india-again-reckons-csk-teammate-harbhajan-singh-294478" hreflang="en">MS Dhoni won't play for India again, reckons CSK teammate Harbhajan Singh</a></strong></p>

<p>Khan said moving an entire tournament just for one-member nation is not right while adding the move if proposed, will not have Pakistan’s support.&nbsp;<br />
“Our stance is absolutely clear, the Asia Cup is set for September and the only reason it should not take place is continued health safety issues. We will not accept that the Asia Cup is moved to accommodate the IPL,” Khan said to a news portal.</p>

<p>“I have heard that there is talk to move the Asia Cup to November-December but for us, that is not possible. If you move the Asia Cup you are making way for one-member nation and that is not right and it will not have our support,” he added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/happy-birthday-sachin-tendulkar-wishes-pour-in-from-all-corners-as-master-blaster-turns-47-294450" hreflang="en">Happy birthday Sachin Tendulkar: Wishes pour in from all corners as Master Blaster turns 47</a></strong></p>

<p>Khan also clarified that BCCI representative, in the ICC Chief Executives’ Meeting on Thursday, didn’t raise any issue regarding IPL while adding Cricket Australia informed that it was exploring all options for the ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled to be held in October-November.</p>

<p>“The T20 World Cup might be played behind closed doors because if we don’t play T20 World Cup each board potentially stands to lose between 15 and 20 million dollars,” said the PCB official.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


With sporting calendar disrupted due to COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a lot of talks surrounding the future of Asia Cup 2020, IPL 2020 and ICC T20 World Cup.

With sporting calendar disrupted due to COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a lot of talks surrounding the future of Asia Cup 2020, IPL 2020 and ICC T20 World Cup. Speculations are rife that the BCCI is looking for September window to accommodate the already-postponed IPL 2020 in place of Asia Cup. However, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) CEO Wasim Khan has said that if Asia Cup is to be postponed then it will be only due to health safety and the Pakistan board will not agree to any rescheduling to free-up space for IPL. ALSO READ: MS Dhoni won't play for India again, reckons CSK teammate Harbhajan Singh Khan said moving an entire tournament just for one-member nation is not right while adding the move if proposed, will not have Pakistan’s support. “Our stance is absolutely clear, the Asia Cup is set for September and the only reason it should not take place is continued health safety issues. We will not accept that the Asia Cup is moved to accommodate the IPL,” Khan said to a news portal. “I have heard that there is talk to move the Asia Cup to November-December but for us, that is not possible. If you move the Asia Cup you are making way for one-member nation and that is not right and it will not have our support,” he added. ALSO READ: Happy birthday Sachin Tendulkar: Wishes pour in from all corners as Master Blaster turns 47 Khan also clarified that BCCI representative, in the ICC Chief Executives’ Meeting on Thursday, didn’t raise any issue regarding IPL while adding Cricket Australia informed that it was exploring all options for the ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled to be held in October-November. “The T20 World Cup might be played behind closed doors because if we don’t play T20 World Cup each board potentially stands to lose between 15 and 20 million dollars,” said the PCB official.

Won't accept rescheduling of Asia Cup for IPL 2020: PCB CEO Wasim Khan

<p>MS Dhoni has been out of cricket action since the ICC World Cup 2019 due to self-imposed sabbatical. The veteran wicket-keeper was supposed to make his comeback to the cricket field in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 but the cash-rich tournament has been postponed indefinitely amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Chennai Super Kings team-mate and veteran off-spinner, Harbhajan Singh reckons Dhoni will not play for India again while adding the ICC World Cup 2019 was last for Dhoni in the Blue jersey.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Harbhajan said that as far as he knows Dhoni, he wouldn’t want to wear India’s jersey again while adding he will continue to play in the IPL.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/happy-birthday-sachin-tendulkar-wishes-pour-in-from-all-corners-as-master-blaster-turns-47-294450" hreflang="en">Happy birthday Sachin Tendulkar: Wishes pour in from all corners as Master Blaster turns 47</a></strong></p>

<p>"It's up to him. You need to know whether he wants to play for India again," Harbhajan said in an online forum.</p>

<p>"As far as I know him, he won't want to wear India's blue jersey again. IPL he will play, but for India, I think he had decided the (2019) World Cup was his last."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ftp-till-2023-set-for-revamp-in-wake-of-covid-19-icc-after-cec-meet-294322" hreflang="en">FTP till 2023 set for revamp in wake of COVID-19: ICC after CEC meet</a></strong></p>

<p>Dhoni retired from Test cricket back in 2014 but has been a main-stay in the limited-overs circuit. However, there has been no official word on Dhoni’s LOI retirement with speculations and debate surrounding his future going on since the conclusion of the 2019 World Cup.</p>

<p>Dhoni led India to lift the ICC T20 World Cup in 2007 and has since won every major ICC tournament and remains the only captain to achieve the feat. &nbsp;He has amassed 10,773 runs from 350 ODIs.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


MS Dhoni has been out of cricket action since the ICC World Cup 2019 due to self-imposed sabbatical. The veteran wicket-keeper was supposed to make his comeback to the cricket field in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 but the cash-rich tournament has been postponed indefinitely amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

MS Dhoni has been out of cricket action since the ICC World Cup 2019 due to self-imposed sabbatical. The veteran wicket-keeper was supposed to make his comeback to the cricket field in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 but the cash-rich tournament has been postponed indefinitely amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Chennai Super Kings team-mate and veteran off-spinner, Harbhajan Singh reckons Dhoni will not play for India again while adding the ICC World Cup 2019 was last for Dhoni in the Blue jersey. Harbhajan said that as far as he knows Dhoni, he wouldn’t want to wear India’s jersey again while adding he will continue to play in the IPL. ALSO READ: Happy birthday Sachin Tendulkar: Wishes pour in from all corners as Master Blaster turns 47 "It's up to him. You need to know whether he wants to play for India again," Harbhajan said in an online forum. "As far as I know him, he won't want to wear India's blue jersey again. IPL he will play, but for India, I think he had decided the (2019) World Cup was his last." ALSO READ: FTP till 2023 set for revamp in wake of COVID-19: ICC after CEC meet Dhoni retired from Test cricket back in 2014 but has been a main-stay in the limited-overs circuit. However, there has been no official word on Dhoni’s LOI retirement with speculations and debate surrounding his future going on since the conclusion of the 2019 World Cup. Dhoni led India to lift the ICC T20 World Cup in 2007 and has since won every major ICC tournament and remains the only captain to achieve the feat. He has amassed 10,773 runs from 350 ODIs.

MS Dhoni won't play for India again, reckons CSK teammate Harbhajan Singh

<p>Sachin Tendulkar’s impact is not only limited to the world of cricket. The Master Blaster, since his senior debut on November 15, 1989, has been an inspiration for millions. Even after his retirement, in 2013, Tendulkar continues to inspire and motivate youngsters to take up sports and shine bright for his/her country. As Tendulkar turned 47 on Friday, wishes from all corners of the world poured in as former and current cricketers, experts, fans paid tribute to one of the greatest sportspeople&nbsp;of all-time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>From Virat Kohli, Sourav Ganguly, Virender Sehwag to Yuvraj Singh, everyone took to social media platform Twitter to wish the Master Blaster on his birth anniversary. Even though Tendulkar has already clarified that he won’t be celebrating his birthday, this year, in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic which has forced almost the entire world to be under lockdown while killing lakhs of people worldwide.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ftp-till-2023-set-for-revamp-in-wake-of-covid-19-icc-after-cec-meet-294322" hreflang="en">FTP till 2023 set for revamp in wake of COVID-19: ICC after CEC meet</a></strong></p>

<p>However, fans and cricketers still rejoiced some of the glorious moments from Tendulkar’s career by posting videos, photographs, statistics, trivia, anecdotes, etc.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The hashtag #HappyBirthdaySachin started trending on Twitter on the eve of Tendulkar’s birthday and continued to gain massive traction as people celebrated his 47th birthday.</p>

<p>Kohli wrote: “Happy birthday to the man whose passion for the game of cricket has inspired many. Wishing you an amazing year ahead paaji. @sachin_rt”</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sports-fans-on-twitter-take-a-trip-down-memory-lane-amid-the-lockdown-294271" hreflang="en">Sports fans on Twitter take a trip down memory lane amid the lockdown</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy birthday to the man whose passion for the game of cricket has inspired many. Wishing you an amazing year ahead paaji. <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sachin_rt</a> <a href="https://t.co/Mj7tE9evHg">pic.twitter.com/Mj7tE9evHg</a></p>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1253548312512417795?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Whereas, Sehwag had a wonderful message on Tendulkar’s birthday as he posted photographs from India’s 2007 World Cup exit and triumph in 2011 World Cup while writing: True that the great man could stop time in India when batting. But the biggest inspiration @sachin_rt Paaji’s career is summed up is in these two pictures. Much needed to remember especially in these difficult times that after every adversity comes victory #HappyBirthdaySachin</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">True that the great man could stop time in India when batting. But the biggest inspiration <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sachin_rt</a> Paaji’s career is summed up is in these two pictures. Much needed to remember especially in these difficult times that after every adversity comes victory <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HappyBirthdaySachin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HappyBirthdaySachin</a> <a href="https://t.co/UODlDjbCEL">pic.twitter.com/UODlDjbCEL</a></p>
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) <a href="https://twitter.com/virendersehwag/status/1253553957764395009?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Here’s how wishes poured in for Sachin Tendulkar on his 47th birthday:</strong></h2>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">To the legend with an eternal sweet spot on the bat &amp; in our hearts, here’s wishing MasterBlaster <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sachin_rt</a> a very happy bday. May ur life continue to shine like ur records &amp; may u continue to inspire billions thru ur noble deeds. Loads of love &amp; best wishes <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HappyBirthdaySachin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HappyBirthdaySachin</a> <a href="https://t.co/l52w5dahA3">pic.twitter.com/l52w5dahA3</a></p>
— yuvraj singh (@YUVSTRONG12) <a href="https://twitter.com/YUVSTRONG12/status/1253541747235274752?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Wish <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sachin_rt</a> a very happy birthday ..have a healthy and happy life ...</p>
— Sourav Ganguly (@SGanguly99) <a href="https://twitter.com/SGanguly99/status/1253545549740924931?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy birthday <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sachin_rt</a> paji! Wishing you lots of health &amp; happiness always. I have been so fortunate to share many memorable innings with you, specially my debut 100 &amp; when you completed your 100th century. <a href="https://t.co/a5fANuieXl">pic.twitter.com/a5fANuieXl</a></p>
— Suresh Raina (@ImRaina) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRaina/status/1253409692975419393?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy Birthday Master from the Kambli Family! God Bless you. <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sachin_rt</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HappyBirthdaySachin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HappyBirthdaySachin</a> <a href="https://t.co/YgNXlmgkgm">pic.twitter.com/YgNXlmgkgm</a></p>
— VINOD KAMBLI (@vinodkambli349) <a href="https://twitter.com/vinodkambli349/status/1253393350557724672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Birthday Greetings to dear <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sachin_rt</a> . You were and continue to remain an inspiration. Wish you ever more joy and success in all that you do. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HappyBirthdaySachin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HappyBirthdaySachin</a> <a href="https://t.co/jX7wfyVE7I">pic.twitter.com/jX7wfyVE7I</a></p>
— VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) <a href="https://twitter.com/VVSLaxman281/status/1253552841001590784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Birthday greetings to one of the biggest legend of cricket <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sachin_rt</a> . Have a blast at home Paaji. Lots of love <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HappyBirthdaySachin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HappyBirthdaySachin</a> <a href="https://t.co/WwxVJjVXfi">pic.twitter.com/WwxVJjVXfi</a></p>
— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) <a href="https://twitter.com/GautamGambhir/status/1253533086412914694?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">We have just loved Sachin bat, bowl &amp; field in the stadiums &amp; loved him equally off the field too.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AajKaSachin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AajKaSachin</a> has been something we started 8 months ago with all our love &amp; soul for <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sachin_rt</a> &amp; will keep doing this forever too.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SachinBirthdaySpecial?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SachinBirthdaySpecial</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HappyBirthdaySachin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HappyBirthdaySachin</a> <a href="https://t.co/VCVRoxDKTf">https://t.co/VCVRoxDKTf</a></p>
— North Stand Gang - Wankhede (@NorthStandGang) <a href="https://twitter.com/NorthStandGang/status/1253572474341601285?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>


Sachin Tendulkar’s impact is not only limited to the world of cricket. The Master Blaster, since his senior debut on November 15, 1989, has been an inspiration for millions.

Sachin Tendulkar’s impact is not only limited to the world of cricket. The Master Blaster, since his senior debut on November 15, 1989, has been an inspiration for millions. Even after his retirement, in 2013, Tendulkar continues to inspire and motivate youngsters to take up sports and shine bright for his/her country. As Tendulkar turned 47 on Friday, wishes from all corners of the world poured in as former and current cricketers, experts, fans paid tribute to one of the greatest sportspeople of all-time. From Virat Kohli, Sourav Ganguly, Virender Sehwag to Yuvraj Singh, everyone took to social media platform Twitter to wish the Master Blaster on his birth anniversary. Even though Tendulkar has already clarified that he won’t be celebrating his birthday, this year, in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic which has forced almost the entire world to be under lockdown while killing lakhs of people worldwide. ALSO READ: FTP till 2023 set for revamp in wake of COVID-19: ICC after CEC meet However, fans and cricketers still rejoiced some of the glorious moments from Tendulkar’s career by posting videos, photographs, statistics, trivia, anecdotes, etc. The hashtag #HappyBirthdaySachin started trending on Twitter on the eve of Tendulkar’s birthday and continued to gain massive traction as people celebrated his 47th birthday. Kohli wrote: “Happy birthday to the man whose passion for the game of cricket has inspired many. Wishing you an amazing year ahead paaji. @sachin_rt” ALSO READ: Sports fans on Twitter take a trip down memory lane amid the lockdown Happy birthday to the man whose passion for the game of cricket has inspired many. Wishing you an amazing year ahead paaji. @sachin_rt pic.twitter.com/Mj7tE9evHg — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) April 24, 2020 × Whereas, Sehwag had a wonderful message on Tendulkar’s birthday as he posted photographs from India’s 2007 World Cup exit and triumph in 2011 World Cup while writing: True that the great man could stop time in India when batting. But the biggest inspiration @sachin_rt Paaji’s career is summed up is in these two pictures. Much needed to remember especially in these difficult times that after every adversity comes victory #HappyBirthdaySachin True that the great man could stop time in India when batting. But the biggest inspiration @sachin_rt Paaji’s career is summed up is in these two pictures. Much needed to remember especially in these difficult times that after every adversity comes victory #HappyBirthdaySachin pic.twitter.com/UODlDjbCEL — Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) April 24, 2020 × Here’s how wishes poured in for Sachin Tendulkar on his 47th birthday: To the legend with an eternal sweet spot on the bat & in our hearts, here’s wishing MasterBlaster @sachin_rt a very happy bday. May ur life continue to shine like ur records & may u continue to inspire billions thru ur noble deeds. Loads of love & best wishes #HappyBirthdaySachin pic.twitter.com/l52w5dahA3 — yuvraj singh (@YUVSTRONG12) April 24, 2020 × Wish @sachin_rt a very happy birthday ..have a healthy and happy life ... — Sourav Ganguly (@SGanguly99) April 24, 2020 × Happy birthday @sachin_rt paji! Wishing you lots of health & happiness always. I have been so fortunate to share many memorable innings with you, specially my debut 100 & when you completed your 100th century. pic.twitter.com/a5fANuieXl — Suresh Raina (@ImRaina) April 23, 2020 × Happy Birthday Master from the Kambli Family! God Bless you. @sachin_rt #HappyBirthdaySachin pic.twitter.com/YgNXlmgkgm — VINOD KAMBLI (@vinodkambli349) April 23, 2020 × Birthday Greetings to dear @sachin_rt . You were and continue to remain an inspiration. Wish you ever more joy and success in all that you do. #HappyBirthdaySachin pic.twitter.com/jX7wfyVE7I — VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) April 24, 2020 × Birthday greetings to one of the biggest legend of cricket @sachin_rt . Have a blast at home Paaji. Lots of love #HappyBirthdaySachin pic.twitter.com/WwxVJjVXfi — Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) April 24, 2020 × We have just loved Sachin bat, bowl & field in the stadiums & loved him equally off the field too.#AajKaSachin has been something we started 8 months ago with all our love & soul for @sachin_rt & will keep doing this forever too.#SachinBirthdaySpecial#HappyBirthdaySachin https://t.co/VCVRoxDKTf — North Stand Gang - Wankhede (@NorthStandGang) April 24, 2020 ×

Happy birthday Sachin Tendulkar: Wishes pour in from all corners as Master Blaster turns 47

<p>The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Thursday hosted a Chief Executives’ Committee meeting via conference call as CEO’s of the 12 full members and three Associate representatives came together and committed to working in partnership to address the challenges cricket is facing or will face during the time of COVID-19 pandemic.</p>

<p>The meeting saw updates from all the members relating to the situation surrounding the dreaded virus in their respective countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sports-fans-on-twitter-take-a-trip-down-memory-lane-amid-the-lockdown-294271" hreflang="en">Sports fans on Twitter take a trip down memory lane amid the lockdown</a></strong></p>

<p>The CEC was updated on the contingency planning for all ICC global events including the likes of ICC T20 World Cup 2020 and ICC Women’s World Cup 2021 as it was decided that planning for both the events will continue as per the schedule.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The members further agreed that the disrupted Future Tours Programme (FTP) would need to be reviewed through to 2023 with a plan to reschedule as many cricket series as possible that has been postponed due to COVID-19 pandemic.</p>

<p>ICC Chief Executive Manu Sawhney said: “I am grateful to my fellow CEOs for their clear commitment to a unified approach to steering cricket through this pandemic. We will work in partnership for the best outcomes for the sport in relation to both ICC events and bilateral cricket.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-cricket-in-india-in-near-future-says-bcci-president-sourav-ganguly-294214" hreflang="en">No cricket in India in near future, says BCCI president Sourav  Ganguly</a></strong></p>

<p>“We agreed on the importance of taking well informed, responsible decisions in relation to the resumption of international cricket. The complexities involved in being able to stage ICC global events are extensive to ensure we protect the health and safety of everyone involved and they will be carefully considered before any decisions are arrived at in the best interests of the game.”</p>

<p>Decisions on the World Test Championship and the ICC Men’s World Cup Super League will be held at a later date when there is a clear understanding of how much cricket has been lost due to the pandemic.&nbsp;</p>


The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Thursday hosted a Chief Executives’ Committee meeting via conference call as CEO’s of the 12 full members and three Associate representatives came together and committed to working in partnership to address the challenges cricket is facing or will face during the time of COVID-19 pandemic.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Thursday hosted a Chief Executives’ Committee meeting via conference call as CEO’s of the 12 full members and three Associate representatives came together and committed to working in partnership to address the challenges cricket is facing or will face during the time of COVID-19 pandemic. The meeting saw updates from all the members relating to the situation surrounding the dreaded virus in their respective countries. ALSO READ: Sports fans on Twitter take a trip down memory lane amid the lockdown The CEC was updated on the contingency planning for all ICC global events including the likes of ICC T20 World Cup 2020 and ICC Women’s World Cup 2021 as it was decided that planning for both the events will continue as per the schedule. The members further agreed that the disrupted Future Tours Programme (FTP) would need to be reviewed through to 2023 with a plan to reschedule as many cricket series as possible that has been postponed due to COVID-19 pandemic. ICC Chief Executive Manu Sawhney said: “I am grateful to my fellow CEOs for their clear commitment to a unified approach to steering cricket through this pandemic. We will work in partnership for the best outcomes for the sport in relation to both ICC events and bilateral cricket. ALSO READ: No cricket in India in near future, says BCCI president Sourav  Ganguly “We agreed on the importance of taking well informed, responsible decisions in relation to the resumption of international cricket. The complexities involved in being able to stage ICC global events are extensive to ensure we protect the health and safety of everyone involved and they will be carefully considered before any decisions are arrived at in the best interests of the game.” Decisions on the World Test Championship and the ICC Men’s World Cup Super League will be held at a later date when there is a clear understanding of how much cricket has been lost due to the pandemic.

FTP till 2023 set for revamp in wake of COVID-19: ICC after CEC meet

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<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</em></strong></p>

<p>The broadcast of Disney Channel will be stopped in Russia reportedly from December 14, the Kommersant newspaper stated on Friday, citing other media.&nbsp;The report further mentioned that Disney Channel in Russia will be replaced by a new children's channel called "Solntse". It means "sun" in Russian.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oligarchs-200m-superyacht-to-be-auctioned-to-benefit-ukraine-war-victims-539524">Oligarch’s $200m superyacht to be auctioned to benefit Ukraine war victims</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>In March this year, the Walt Disney Company said that it stopped all business in Russia. The announcement came in the aftermath of Russia's invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Apart from the business activities, the company also paused content and product licensing. The report mentioned that some channels would take time to pause due to contractual nuances.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Why is Russia warning of increased military tensions in the Arctic?&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>In March, a spokesperson said in a statement: "Given the unprovoked invasion of Ukraine and the tragic humanitarian crisis, we are pausing the release of theatrical films in Russia, including the upcoming 'Turning Red' from Pixar. We will make future business decisions based on the evolving situation."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The company had also announced that it worked with non-governmental-organisation partners "to provide urgent aid and other humanitarian assistance to refugees" displaced by the military assault.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Disney aired shows, animations and films in Russia after it was approved to broadcast in the country in 2010.&nbsp;</p>

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Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. The broadcast of Disney Channel will be stopped in Russia reportedly from December 14, the Kommersant newspaper stated on Friday, citing other media. The report further mentioned that Disney Channel in Russia will be replaced by a new children's channel called "Solntse". It means "sun" in Russian. ALSO READ | Oligarch’s $200m superyacht to be auctioned to benefit Ukraine war victims In March this year, the Walt Disney Company said that it stopped all business in Russia. The announcement came in the aftermath of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Apart from the business activities, the company also paused content and product licensing. The report mentioned that some channels would take time to pause due to contractual nuances. WATCH | Why is Russia warning of increased military tensions in the Arctic? × In March, a spokesperson said in a statement: "Given the unprovoked invasion of Ukraine and the tragic humanitarian crisis, we are pausing the release of theatrical films in Russia, including the upcoming 'Turning Red' from Pixar. We will make future business decisions based on the evolving situation." The company had also announced that it worked with non-governmental-organisation partners "to provide urgent aid and other humanitarian assistance to refugees" displaced by the military assault. Disney aired shows, animations and films in Russia after it was approved to broadcast in the country in 2010. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Watch - Indian batsmen played for themselves, Pakistan players played for the team: Inzamam-ul-Haq takes a sly dig at Team India

<p>With mixed views coming on the fate of ICC T20 World Cup, Australian skipper Aaron Finch has said that the showpiece event, which is scheduled to be held in October-November in Australia, might be postponed for a few months, given the current situation surrounding COVID-19.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Finch is also of the view that playing matches behind closed doors shouldn’t bother the players much as long as everyone can get live sports up and running. The speculations are rife that the T20 World Cup might be postponed due to the six-month lockdown period in Australia and the complications of travel and logistics.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I think we might have to get our heads around a T20 World Cup that might be postponed for a month, two months, three months, whatever it has to be,” Finch said in a radio show.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-cricket-in-india-in-near-future-says-bcci-president-sourav-ganguly-294214" hreflang="en">No cricket in India in near future, says BCCI president Sourav  Ganguly</a></strong></p>

<p>“But as long as we can get live sport up and running. Whether that’s with crowds or not, I don’t think that makes any difference to the players. We played one ODI against New Zealand with no crowd (and it) was really strange for first four or five overs, but then you got into your work,” he said.</p>

<p>Australia will not only host the ICC T20 World Cup in October-November but a bilateral series against India including a four-match Test rubber will follow just after the conclusion of the showpiece event.</p>

<p>Finch reckons that the authorities need to be a bit creative while rescheduling the postponed bilateral series.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-could-be-pushed-back-to-2021-with-ipl-13-taking-october-window-brendon-mccullum-294222" hreflang="en">T20 World Cup could be pushed back to 2021 with IPL 13 taking October window: Brendon McCullum</a></strong></p>

<p>“I think we might have to get a little bit creative with how we do that (as part of a new-look schedule). Whether that’s setting up and playing two Test matches in one hub or something like that,” he said.</p>

<p>The ICC’s Chief Executives Committee is set to meet on Thursday, over a conference call, to discuss the financial ramifications of COVID-19 and the plans for ICC global events including the T20 World Cup.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


With mixed views coming on the fate of ICC T20 World Cup, Australian skipper Aaron Finch has said that the showpiece event, which is scheduled to be held in October-November in Australia, might be postponed for a few months, given the current situation surrounding COVID-19.

With mixed views coming on the fate of ICC T20 World Cup, Australian skipper Aaron Finch has said that the showpiece event, which is scheduled to be held in October-November in Australia, might be postponed for a few months, given the current situation surrounding COVID-19. Finch is also of the view that playing matches behind closed doors shouldn’t bother the players much as long as everyone can get live sports up and running. The speculations are rife that the T20 World Cup might be postponed due to the six-month lockdown period in Australia and the complications of travel and logistics. “I think we might have to get our heads around a T20 World Cup that might be postponed for a month, two months, three months, whatever it has to be,” Finch said in a radio show. ALSO READ: No cricket in India in near future, says BCCI president Sourav  Ganguly “But as long as we can get live sport up and running. Whether that’s with crowds or not, I don’t think that makes any difference to the players. We played one ODI against New Zealand with no crowd (and it) was really strange for first four or five overs, but then you got into your work,” he said. Australia will not only host the ICC T20 World Cup in October-November but a bilateral series against India including a four-match Test rubber will follow just after the conclusion of the showpiece event. Finch reckons that the authorities need to be a bit creative while rescheduling the postponed bilateral series. ALSO READ: T20 World Cup could be pushed back to 2021 with IPL 13 taking October window: Brendon McCullum “I think we might have to get a little bit creative with how we do that (as part of a new-look schedule). Whether that’s setting up and playing two Test matches in one hub or something like that,” he said. The ICC’s Chief Executives Committee is set to meet on Thursday, over a conference call, to discuss the financial ramifications of COVID-19 and the plans for ICC global events including the T20 World Cup.

'I think we might have to...' - Aussie skipper Aaron Finch prepared for ICC T20 World Cup postponement

<p>Former New Zealand captain and current head coach of Kolkata Knight Riders, Brendon McCullum is of the view that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will target the October window to conduct the 13th edition of Indian Premier League (IPL), which has been indefinitely postponed amid COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>McCullum reckons that IPL will be played in October with ICC T20 World Cup getting pushed back to 2021. The ICC T20 World Cup is scheduled to be hosted by Australia from October 18-November 15.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-cricket-in-india-in-near-future-says-bcci-president-sourav-ganguly-294214" hreflang="en">No cricket in India in near future, says BCCI president Sourav  Ganguly</a></strong></p>

<p>“I think the IPL will try and target that October window and the T20 World Cup will get pushed back,” McCullum, the coach of IPL side KKR, said in a podcast.</p>

<p>There are two major ICC events scheduled for the year 2021 in ICC Women’s World Cup and ICC T20 World Cup 2021, scheduled to be hosted by India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“That may mean the Women’s World Cup gets pushed back but hopefully we get to see all three tournaments operate,” McCullum said.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-seven-year-old-pari-sharma-leaves-michael-vaughan-shai-hope-and-other-top-cricketers-in-awe-with-her-batting-skills-294189" hreflang="en">Watch: Seven-year-old Pari Sharma leaves Michael Vaughan, Shai Hope and other top cricketers in awe with her batting skills</a></strong></p>

<p>However, the former Black Caps skipper said that for Australia, moving 16 international teams along with the broadcasters and support staff is a far-fetched idea at the moment while adding he doesn’t see the T20 World Cup being played behind closed doors.</p>

<p>“For Australia to move 16 international teams plus all of their support staff and then broadcasters, seems a bridge too far. I can’t see them playing the T20 World Cup behind closed doors either,” McCullum said.</p>

<p>“There may be a window a bit later in the new year of 2021 which could then open up a window for the IPL (in October and November). You’d have to move some overseas players for the IPL but with the broadcasters based in India, it is a lot easier to pull it all together,” he added.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Former New Zealand captain and current head coach of Kolkata Knight Riders, Brendon McCullum is of the view that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will target the October window to conduct the 13th edition of Indian Premier League (IPL), which has been indefinitely postponed amid COVID-19 pandemic.

Former New Zealand captain and current head coach of Kolkata Knight Riders, Brendon McCullum is of the view that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will target the October window to conduct the 13th edition of Indian Premier League (IPL), which has been indefinitely postponed amid COVID-19 pandemic. McCullum reckons that IPL will be played in October with ICC T20 World Cup getting pushed back to 2021. The ICC T20 World Cup is scheduled to be hosted by Australia from October 18-November 15. ALSO READ: No cricket in India in near future, says BCCI president Sourav  Ganguly “I think the IPL will try and target that October window and the T20 World Cup will get pushed back,” McCullum, the coach of IPL side KKR, said in a podcast. There are two major ICC events scheduled for the year 2021 in ICC Women’s World Cup and ICC T20 World Cup 2021, scheduled to be hosted by India. “That may mean the Women’s World Cup gets pushed back but hopefully we get to see all three tournaments operate,” McCullum said. ALSO READ: Watch: Seven-year-old Pari Sharma leaves Michael Vaughan, Shai Hope and other top cricketers in awe with her batting skills However, the former Black Caps skipper said that for Australia, moving 16 international teams along with the broadcasters and support staff is a far-fetched idea at the moment while adding he doesn’t see the T20 World Cup being played behind closed doors. “For Australia to move 16 international teams plus all of their support staff and then broadcasters, seems a bridge too far. I can’t see them playing the T20 World Cup behind closed doors either,” McCullum said. “There may be a window a bit later in the new year of 2021 which could then open up a window for the IPL (in October and November). You’d have to move some overseas players for the IPL but with the broadcasters based in India, it is a lot easier to pull it all together,” he added.

T20 World Cup could be pushed back to 2021 with IPL 13 taking October window: Brendon McCullum

<p>With sporting calendar completely wiped off by the COVID-19 pandemic, there is a sense of uncertainty as to when live-action will resume in future. While big events like the Olympics, Wimbledon, among many others have been either postponed or cancelled, all eyes are on the two cricket tournaments – IPL 2020 and ICC T20 World Cup. Earlier, IPL 2020 was indefinitely postponed amid the coronavirus crisis, whereas a decision on T20 World Cup is still pending.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speculations are rife that IPL could be staged ahead of T20 World Cup in August or September but the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly has clarified that there will be no cricket in India in near future while adding that he doesn’t believe in risking human lives for sport.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-seven-year-old-pari-sharma-leaves-michael-vaughan-shai-hope-and-other-top-cricketers-in-awe-with-her-batting-skills-294189" hreflang="en">Watch: Seven-year-old Pari Sharma leaves Michael Vaughan, Shai Hope and other top cricketers in awe with her batting skills</a></strong></p>

<p>“The social reality of Germany and India are different, there will be no cricket in India in the near future. There are too many ifs and buts involved. More importantly, I don’t believe in sport when there is a risk to human life,” Ganguly told a leading daily on Tuesday.</p>

<p>Many former cricketers and experts have suggested the IPL 2020 to be held just before T20 World Cup as it will provide a perfect platform for cricketers to gain rhythm and match-fitness ahead of the showpiece event, which is scheduled to be held in October-November in Australia.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-came-as-a-surprise-dinesh-karthik-on-batting-promotion-in-2019-world-cup-semi-final-294038" hreflang="en">'It came as a surprise' - Dinesh Karthik on batting promotion in 2019 World Cup semi-final</a></strong></p>

<p>Even ICC CEO Manu Sawhney has said that the apex cricket body is in touch with experts and authorities as it continues to evaluate the situation surrounding COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“In relation to ICC events, including the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, we will continue to take advice from experts and authorities, including the Australian government. We will utilize all of the data and information available to us to ensure we can take responsible decisions around all competitions at an appropriate time that are in the best interests of our sport,” said ICC Chief Executive Sawhney.</p>


With sporting calendar completely wiped off by the COVID-19 pandemic, there is a sense of uncertainty as to when live-action will resume in future. While big events like the Olympics, Wimbledon, among many others have been either postponed or cancelled, all eyes are on the two cricket tournaments – IPL 2020 and ICC T20 World Cup.

With sporting calendar completely wiped off by the COVID-19 pandemic, there is a sense of uncertainty as to when live-action will resume in future. While big events like the Olympics, Wimbledon, among many others have been either postponed or cancelled, all eyes are on the two cricket tournaments – IPL 2020 and ICC T20 World Cup. Earlier, IPL 2020 was indefinitely postponed amid the coronavirus crisis, whereas a decision on T20 World Cup is still pending. Speculations are rife that IPL could be staged ahead of T20 World Cup in August or September but the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly has clarified that there will be no cricket in India in near future while adding that he doesn’t believe in risking human lives for sport. ALSO READ: Watch: Seven-year-old Pari Sharma leaves Michael Vaughan, Shai Hope and other top cricketers in awe with her batting skills “The social reality of Germany and India are different, there will be no cricket in India in the near future. There are too many ifs and buts involved. More importantly, I don’t believe in sport when there is a risk to human life,” Ganguly told a leading daily on Tuesday. Many former cricketers and experts have suggested the IPL 2020 to be held just before T20 World Cup as it will provide a perfect platform for cricketers to gain rhythm and match-fitness ahead of the showpiece event, which is scheduled to be held in October-November in Australia. ALSO READ: 'It came as a surprise' - Dinesh Karthik on batting promotion in 2019 World Cup semi-final Even ICC CEO Manu Sawhney has said that the apex cricket body is in touch with experts and authorities as it continues to evaluate the situation surrounding COVID-19 pandemic. “In relation to ICC events, including the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, we will continue to take advice from experts and authorities, including the Australian government. We will utilize all of the data and information available to us to ensure we can take responsible decisions around all competitions at an appropriate time that are in the best interests of our sport,” said ICC Chief Executive Sawhney.

No cricket in India in near future, says BCCI president Sourav  Ganguly

<p>As India continues to remain under lockdown to curb the spread of COVID-19 pandemic, everyone has been restricted to go about their daily lives indoors. Sportspersons and fans have shared numerous videos of them training indoors or playing cricket in their hall space but one video of a seven-year-old Pari Sharma stood out as it received plaudits from top cricketers and coaches around the world.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A video of seven-year-old Pari smashing some exquisite cover-drives went viral on social media platform Twitter as it grabbed the eyeballs of several current and former cricketers including the likes of Michael Vaughan, Shai Hope, Nasser Hussain, Mike Atherton, Alexandra Hartley. Even the current chief selector of Indian cricket team – Sunil Joshi – and head coach of the Indian Women’s cricket team – WV Raman – praised the youngster for her talent.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“This is a great video!! For so many different reasons….,” wrote Nasser Hussain.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This is a great video !! For so many different reasons..... <a href="https://t.co/amtkFIY2Lw">https://t.co/amtkFIY2Lw</a></p>
— Nasser Hussain (@nassercricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/nassercricket/status/1252897079145439232?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Michael Vaughan, on the other hand, wrote: “Have a look at this video.. Pari Sharma.. 7 yrs old.. Her movements are as good as it gets.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Have a look at this video .. Pari Sharma .. 7 yrs old .. Her movements are as good as it gets <a href="https://t.co/yeVGd9svKb">pic.twitter.com/yeVGd9svKb</a></p>
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelVaughan/status/1252861928927408131?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Atherton, meanwhile, called Pari Sharma “exceptional”.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Exceptional <a href="https://t.co/KI91QRM0BG">https://t.co/KI91QRM0BG</a></p>
— Mike atherton (@Athersmike) <a href="https://twitter.com/Athersmike/status/1252857729393123333?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Alexandra Hartley wrote: “Does Pari Sharma do 1-1s?? Asking for a mate”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Does Pari Sharma do 1-1s??<br />
<br />
Asking for a mate. <a href="https://t.co/qaD8l8LPn2">https://t.co/qaD8l8LPn2</a></p>
— Alexandra Hartley (@AlexHartley93) <a href="https://twitter.com/AlexHartley93/status/1252904313032183808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Windies batsman Shai Hope, for the budding cricketer, wrote: “When I grow up I want to be like Pari Sharma.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">When I grow up I want to be like Pari Sharma! <a href="https://t.co/7JLFQNc4tR">https://t.co/7JLFQNc4tR</a></p>
— Shai Hope (@shaidhope) <a href="https://twitter.com/shaidhope/status/1252594562968817665?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Whereas Sunil Joshi wrote: “A seven year old cricketer! This is the best video I have seen months now. Lets &nbsp;keep a close eye on this little girl. Way to go Pari!”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="und">ಏಳು ವರ್ಷದ ಕ್ರಿಕೆಟರ್. ಕಳೆದ ಕೆಲವು ತಿಂಗಳಲ್ಲಿ ನಾನು ನೋಡಿದ ಸೊಗಸಾದ ವಿಡಿಯೋ ಇದು. <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@bcci</a> ಈ ಪುಟ್ಟ ಹಿಡುಗಿಯನ್ನು ಗಮನಿಸೋಣ. ಒಳ್ಳೆದಾಗಲಿ, ಪರಿ. A seven year old cricketer! This is the best video I have seen months now. Lets keep a close eye on this little girl. Way to go Pari! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StayHomeStaySafe?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StayHomeStaySafe</a> <a href="https://t.co/bNJ2jmJWlx">https://t.co/bNJ2jmJWlx</a></p>
— Sunil Joshi | ಸುನಿಲ್ ಜೋಶಿ (@SunilJoshi_Spin) <a href="https://twitter.com/SunilJoshi_Spin/status/1252633492355117056?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Commenting on Joshi’s tweet, head coach of Indian women’s team wrote: “The young kid has caught the chief selector's eye..80% of the work done..”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The young kid has caught the chief selector's eye..80% of the work done.. <a href="https://t.co/K3HjWriyRR">https://t.co/K3HjWriyRR</a></p>
— wv raman (@wvraman) <a href="https://twitter.com/wvraman/status/1252932391271686144?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>While entire India continues to combat the deadly COVID-19, such videos continue to put smiles to the face of not only sports fans but those who aren’t even cricket fanatics.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


As India continues to remain under lockdown to curb the spread of COVID-19 pandemic, everyone has been restricted to go about their daily lives indoors. Sportspersons and fans have shared numerous videos of them training indoors or playing cricket in their hall space but one video of a seven-year-old Pari Sharma stood out as it received plaudits from top cricketers and coaches around the world.

As India continues to remain under lockdown to curb the spread of COVID-19 pandemic, everyone has been restricted to go about their daily lives indoors. Sportspersons and fans have shared numerous videos of them training indoors or playing cricket in their hall space but one video of a seven-year-old Pari Sharma stood out as it received plaudits from top cricketers and coaches around the world. A video of seven-year-old Pari smashing some exquisite cover-drives went viral on social media platform Twitter as it grabbed the eyeballs of several current and former cricketers including the likes of Michael Vaughan, Shai Hope, Nasser Hussain, Mike Atherton, Alexandra Hartley. Even the current chief selector of Indian cricket team – Sunil Joshi – and head coach of the Indian Women’s cricket team – WV Raman – praised the youngster for her talent. “This is a great video!! For so many different reasons….,” wrote Nasser Hussain. This is a great video !! For so many different reasons..... https://t.co/amtkFIY2Lw — Nasser Hussain (@nassercricket) April 22, 2020 × Michael Vaughan, on the other hand, wrote: “Have a look at this video.. Pari Sharma.. 7 yrs old.. Her movements are as good as it gets.” Have a look at this video .. Pari Sharma .. 7 yrs old .. Her movements are as good as it gets pic.twitter.com/yeVGd9svKb — Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) April 22, 2020 × Atherton, meanwhile, called Pari Sharma “exceptional”. Exceptional https://t.co/KI91QRM0BG — Mike atherton (@Athersmike) April 22, 2020 × Alexandra Hartley wrote: “Does Pari Sharma do 1-1s?? Asking for a mate” Does Pari Sharma do 1-1s?? Asking for a mate. https://t.co/qaD8l8LPn2 — Alexandra Hartley (@AlexHartley93) April 22, 2020 × Windies batsman Shai Hope, for the budding cricketer, wrote: “When I grow up I want to be like Pari Sharma.” When I grow up I want to be like Pari Sharma! https://t.co/7JLFQNc4tR — Shai Hope (@shaidhope) April 21, 2020 × Whereas Sunil Joshi wrote: “A seven year old cricketer! This is the best video I have seen months now. Lets keep a close eye on this little girl. Way to go Pari!” ಏಳು ವರ್ಷದ ಕ್ರಿಕೆಟರ್. ಕಳೆದ ಕೆಲವು ತಿಂಗಳಲ್ಲಿ ನಾನು ನೋಡಿದ ಸೊಗಸಾದ ವಿಡಿಯೋ ಇದು. @bcci ಈ ಪುಟ್ಟ ಹಿಡುಗಿಯನ್ನು ಗಮನಿಸೋಣ. ಒಳ್ಳೆದಾಗಲಿ, ಪರಿ. A seven year old cricketer! This is the best video I have seen months now. Lets keep a close eye on this little girl. Way to go Pari! #StayHomeStaySafe https://t.co/bNJ2jmJWlx — Sunil Joshi | ಸುನಿಲ್ ಜೋಶಿ (@SunilJoshi_Spin) April 21, 2020 × Commenting on Joshi’s tweet, head coach of Indian women’s team wrote: “The young kid has caught the chief selector's eye..80% of the work done..” The young kid has caught the chief selector's eye..80% of the work done.. https://t.co/K3HjWriyRR — wv raman (@wvraman) April 22, 2020 × While entire India continues to combat the deadly COVID-19, such videos continue to put smiles to the face of not only sports fans but those who aren’t even cricket fanatics.

Watch: Seven-year-old Pari Sharma leaves Michael Vaughan, Shai Hope and other top cricketers in awe with her batting skills

<p>India’s semi-final defeat against New Zealand in the ICC World Cup 2019 is still fresh in the minds of cricket lovers. Many experts and fans were left baffled by the sudden promotion of Dinesh Karthik in the batting order following a top-order collapse while chasing a 240-run target. Since the crushing defeat, Karthik has been dropped from the side as selectors silently looked to other players.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Months after the heartbreaking defeat to the Black Caps, Karthik opened up on his sudden promotion as he said the move came as a&nbsp;surprise to him as the team management was very clear that he would be batting at number seven throughout the campaign.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hope-teams-will-be-given-time-to-prepare-for-icc-t20-world-cup-rohit-sharma-294030" hreflang="en">Hope teams will be given time to prepare for ICC T20 World Cup: Rohit Sharma</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Karthik said that his move was to arrest the flow of wickets while adding that he had to move really quickly to get ready due to the plan being a last-moment implementation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It came as a bit of a surprise because they had made it very clear that I would be batting at number seven. We had to send a rearguard action just to stem the flow of wickets. I was told to pad up and it all happened in a daze, in a hurry," Karthik was quoted as saying by leading cricket news portal.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/team-india-head-coach-ravi-shastri-opines-on-future-of-icc-t20-world-cup-294023" hreflang="en">Team India head coach Ravi Shastri opines on future of ICC T20 World Cup</a></strong></p>

<p>“I was just sitting in my shorts and I had to go up, get ready. Literally, I was late to get in, I wasn’t expecting a wicket to fall. KL Rahul got out and I had to put on my pads. I went in in the third over and I don’t know when I got out, and it doesn’t matter, but I just stopped the wickets falling till Boult’s spell was over. He was the main wrecker-in-chief and unluckily when it was time for me to move on, I got out to a brilliant catch by James Neesham,” he added.</p>

<p>India suffered a heartbreaking 18-run defeat to New Zealand to bow out of the quadrennial event after enjoying a splendid run in the league stage.</p>


India’s semi-final defeat against New Zealand in the ICC World Cup 2019 is still fresh in the minds of cricket lovers. Many experts and fans were left baffled by the sudden promotion of Dinesh Karthik in the batting order following a top-order collapse while chasing a 240-run target.

India’s semi-final defeat against New Zealand in the ICC World Cup 2019 is still fresh in the minds of cricket lovers. Many experts and fans were left baffled by the sudden promotion of Dinesh Karthik in the batting order following a top-order collapse while chasing a 240-run target. Since the crushing defeat, Karthik has been dropped from the side as selectors silently looked to other players. Months after the heartbreaking defeat to the Black Caps, Karthik opened up on his sudden promotion as he said the move came as a surprise to him as the team management was very clear that he would be batting at number seven throughout the campaign. ALSO READ: Hope teams will be given time to prepare for ICC T20 World Cup: Rohit Sharma Karthik said that his move was to arrest the flow of wickets while adding that he had to move really quickly to get ready due to the plan being a last-moment implementation. “It came as a bit of a surprise because they had made it very clear that I would be batting at number seven. We had to send a rearguard action just to stem the flow of wickets. I was told to pad up and it all happened in a daze, in a hurry," Karthik was quoted as saying by leading cricket news portal. ALSO READ: Team India head coach Ravi Shastri opines on future of ICC T20 World Cup “I was just sitting in my shorts and I had to go up, get ready. Literally, I was late to get in, I wasn’t expecting a wicket to fall. KL Rahul got out and I had to put on my pads. I went in in the third over and I don’t know when I got out, and it doesn’t matter, but I just stopped the wickets falling till Boult’s spell was over. He was the main wrecker-in-chief and unluckily when it was time for me to move on, I got out to a brilliant catch by James Neesham,” he added. India suffered a heartbreaking 18-run defeat to New Zealand to bow out of the quadrennial event after enjoying a splendid run in the league stage.

'It came as a surprise' - Dinesh Karthik on batting promotion in 2019 World Cup semi-final

<p>Indian cricket team's&nbsp;limited-overs vice-captain, Rohit Sharma reckons teams will be given enough time to prepare for the ICC T20 World Cup given the showpiece event goes ahead as planned. The ICC T20 World Cup is scheduled to be hosted by Australia in October-November but the COVID-19 pandemic and the 6-month lockdown period that is enforced Down Under to curb the spread of the dreaded virus.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Indian opener said that nobody is sure when the T20 World Cup will take place but whenever it does the cricket boards and ICC will provide preparation time to all the teams as nobody is training or playing during the ongoing lockdown phase.</p>

<p>Rohit is of the view that players need to go out on the field and start training in a bid to get into a rhythm while adding the last ball he faced was on February 2 when he suffered a calf injury while playing against New Zealand.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-cricket-is-just-not-a-sport-for-me-it-is-what-i-live-for-smriti-mandhana-opens-up-on-her-love-for-the-game-rapport-with-jemimah-and-much-more-293856" hreflang="en">Exclusive: 'Cricket is just not a sport for me, it is what I live for' - Smriti Mandhana opens up on her love for the game, rapport with Jemimah and much more</a></strong></p>

<h2>"You need to go out there and start training"</h2>

<p>"We are really not sure when this World Cup (T20 World Cup) is going to happen. As and when it happens, we will have a fair amount of time to prepare for it. The cricket boards around the world are not going to say 'everything is fine; we will schedule the World Cup'. Of course, preparation time is going to be given for all the countries because all the countries are under lockdown. Nobody's playing, nobody's training. The limited stuff at home is not enough," Rohit told a news portal.</p>

<p>"You need to go out there and start training and get into the routine and get your muscles strong. Especially for me, I was just injured before the lockdown and I need to start working hard. I was just around the corner to do my fitness test. The 1st thing for me would be to pass the fitness test and hit some balls.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-australia-can-swap-hosting-t20-world-cup-in-2020-and-2021-suggests-sunil-gavaskar-293805" hreflang="en">India-Australia can swap hosting T20 World Cup in 2020 and 2021, suggests Sunil Gavaskar</a></strong></p>

<p>"The last ball I played was on February 2. That's when I got injured. I am just looking forward to going out there and playing and doing what I love the most."</p>

<p>Earlier, Cricket Australia chief executive Kevin Roberts had said that they will lose “hundreds of millions” if the international season, in Australia, is affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Indian cricket team's limited-overs vice-captain, Rohit Sharma reckons teams will be given enough time to prepare for the ICC T20 World Cup given the showpiece event goes ahead as planned.

Indian cricket team's limited-overs vice-captain, Rohit Sharma reckons teams will be given enough time to prepare for the ICC T20 World Cup given the showpiece event goes ahead as planned. The ICC T20 World Cup is scheduled to be hosted by Australia in October-November but the COVID-19 pandemic and the 6-month lockdown period that is enforced Down Under to curb the spread of the dreaded virus. The Indian opener said that nobody is sure when the T20 World Cup will take place but whenever it does the cricket boards and ICC will provide preparation time to all the teams as nobody is training or playing during the ongoing lockdown phase. Rohit is of the view that players need to go out on the field and start training in a bid to get into a rhythm while adding the last ball he faced was on February 2 when he suffered a calf injury while playing against New Zealand. ALSO READ: Exclusive: 'Cricket is just not a sport for me, it is what I live for' - Smriti Mandhana opens up on her love for the game, rapport with Jemimah and much more "You need to go out there and start training" "We are really not sure when this World Cup (T20 World Cup) is going to happen. As and when it happens, we will have a fair amount of time to prepare for it. The cricket boards around the world are not going to say 'everything is fine; we will schedule the World Cup'. Of course, preparation time is going to be given for all the countries because all the countries are under lockdown. Nobody's playing, nobody's training. The limited stuff at home is not enough," Rohit told a news portal. "You need to go out there and start training and get into the routine and get your muscles strong. Especially for me, I was just injured before the lockdown and I need to start working hard. I was just around the corner to do my fitness test. The 1st thing for me would be to pass the fitness test and hit some balls. ALSO READ: India-Australia can swap hosting T20 World Cup in 2020 and 2021, suggests Sunil Gavaskar "The last ball I played was on February 2. That's when I got injured. I am just looking forward to going out there and playing and doing what I love the most." Earlier, Cricket Australia chief executive Kevin Roberts had said that they will lose “hundreds of millions” if the international season, in Australia, is affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Hope teams will be given time to prepare for ICC T20 World Cup: Rohit Sharma

<p>With COVID-19 pandemic shattering the sporting calendar, there’s a sense of uncertainty surrounding the fate of ICC T20 World Cup, which is scheduled to be played in Australia in October-November. Indian head coach, Ravi Shastri gave his take on the future of the showpiece event as he said there is so much uncertainty surrounding sporting events that it is impossible to assure anything at this period of time.</p>

<p>Shastri is of the view that sports seem an extremely minuscule part of life under such circumstances while adding whenever sporting actions resumes, it will put smiles on the faces of people. The former Indian all-rounder further said that sports will contribute to the mental and psychological well-being but urged everyone not to lose sight of the present in chasing the future.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ddca-secretary-vinod-tihara-in-meerut-jail-for-past-1-month-colleagues-thought-he-had-covid-19-294013" hreflang="en">DDCA secretary Vinod Tihara in Meerut jail for past 1 month, colleagues thought he had COVID-19</a></strong></p>

<p>“Will we have the Twenty20 World Cup in Australia in October? We don’t know really, do we? There is so much uncertainty currently that it will be impossible to state with any assurance when even thought will be given to the resumption of sporting activities,” Shastri told a news portal.</p>

<p>“Sport seems a very minuscule part of life under the circumstances, though I do feel that as and when we do get underway, it will definitely put smiles on the faces of people. I personally feel it will contribute to emotional and psychological well-being, but again, that’s in the future and as I’ve maintained, let’s not lose sight of the present in chasing the future,” the Indian head coach added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-have-to-see-how-bcci-reacts-to-cricket-australias-proposal-of-hosting-5-test-series-at-single-venue-293973" hreflang="en">'We have to see how...' - BCCI reacts to Cricket Australia's proposal of hosting 5-Test series at single venue</a></strong></p>

<p>There’s a lot of talk surrounding ICC T20 World Cup with Cricket Australia (CA) fearing losses to the tune of ‘millions of dollars’ given the international season, in Australia, is affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.</p>


With COVID-19 pandemic shattering the sporting calendar, there’s a sense of uncertainty surrounding the fate of ICC T20 World Cup, which is scheduled to be played in Australia in October-November.

With COVID-19 pandemic shattering the sporting calendar, there’s a sense of uncertainty surrounding the fate of ICC T20 World Cup, which is scheduled to be played in Australia in October-November. Indian head coach, Ravi Shastri gave his take on the future of the showpiece event as he said there is so much uncertainty surrounding sporting events that it is impossible to assure anything at this period of time. Shastri is of the view that sports seem an extremely minuscule part of life under such circumstances while adding whenever sporting actions resumes, it will put smiles on the faces of people. The former Indian all-rounder further said that sports will contribute to the mental and psychological well-being but urged everyone not to lose sight of the present in chasing the future. ALSO READ: DDCA secretary Vinod Tihara in Meerut jail for past 1 month, colleagues thought he had COVID-19 “Will we have the Twenty20 World Cup in Australia in October? We don’t know really, do we? There is so much uncertainty currently that it will be impossible to state with any assurance when even thought will be given to the resumption of sporting activities,” Shastri told a news portal. “Sport seems a very minuscule part of life under the circumstances, though I do feel that as and when we do get underway, it will definitely put smiles on the faces of people. I personally feel it will contribute to emotional and psychological well-being, but again, that’s in the future and as I’ve maintained, let’s not lose sight of the present in chasing the future,” the Indian head coach added. ALSO READ: 'We have to see how...' - BCCI reacts to Cricket Australia's proposal of hosting 5-Test series at single venue There’s a lot of talk surrounding ICC T20 World Cup with Cricket Australia (CA) fearing losses to the tune of ‘millions of dollars’ given the international season, in Australia, is affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Team India head coach Ravi Shastri opines on future of ICC T20 World Cup

<p>Controversial Delhi and Districts Cricket Association (DDCA) general secretary Vinod Tihara is currently in jail for allegedly failing to "comply with GST norms" after going "incommunicado" amid speculation that he was self-isolating with symptoms of COVID-19.</p>

<p>"A Delhi resident named Vinod Tihara was arrested by Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) wing of Noida on March 17 on allegations of violations of GST norms and is currently in Meerut jail," SSP Meerut, Ajay Sahni, told PTI.</p>

<p>There was no immediate clarity on the exact nature of the violation he has been accused of committing.</p>

<p>Tihara is Delhi cricket's representative at the BCCI and an influential figure in state's cricket body.</p>

<p>Tihara had been "unreachable" since mid-March leaving DDCA officials, including members of his faction, flummoxed.</p>

<p>"For the longest time, we were under the impression that Vinod ji has tested positive for COVID-19. One or two people who contacted his family members were told that he is under isolation. His phone is switched off for the past one month," a senior DDCA office-bearer told PTI.</p>

<p>During a recent online hearing in a matter of financial misappropriation of funds, organised by DDCA ombudsman Justice (Retd) Deepak Verma via Skype, one of the body's lawyers, known for his proximity to Tihara, told the apex council members that he had tested positive for novel coronavirus.</p>

<p>"We all freaked out as we had met Tihara till March 15 at various places. We told him that why weren't we informed as we all needed to quarantine ourselves.</p>

<p>"He then changed track and said that if you people would have been COVID-19 positive, then you would have known by now. It was very suspicious," the Apex Council member who was suspended that day, said.</p>

<p>In fact, some of the members are now wondering how did a letter signed by Tihara in support of one of the lawyers, whose service was being terminated, was submitted to Ombudsman, when all this while he had been in jail.</p>

<p>It is understood that because of the lockdown, his bail plea has been deferred.</p>


Controversial Delhi and Districts Cricket Association (DDCA) general secretary Vinod Tihara is currently in jail for allegedly failing to "comply with GST norms" after going "incommunicado" amid speculation that he was self-isolating with symptoms of COVID-19.

Controversial Delhi and Districts Cricket Association (DDCA) general secretary Vinod Tihara is currently in jail for allegedly failing to "comply with GST norms" after going "incommunicado" amid speculation that he was self-isolating with symptoms of COVID-19. "A Delhi resident named Vinod Tihara was arrested by Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) wing of Noida on March 17 on allegations of violations of GST norms and is currently in Meerut jail," SSP Meerut, Ajay Sahni, told PTI. There was no immediate clarity on the exact nature of the violation he has been accused of committing. Tihara is Delhi cricket's representative at the BCCI and an influential figure in state's cricket body. Tihara had been "unreachable" since mid-March leaving DDCA officials, including members of his faction, flummoxed. "For the longest time, we were under the impression that Vinod ji has tested positive for COVID-19. One or two people who contacted his family members were told that he is under isolation. His phone is switched off for the past one month," a senior DDCA office-bearer told PTI. During a recent online hearing in a matter of financial misappropriation of funds, organised by DDCA ombudsman Justice (Retd) Deepak Verma via Skype, one of the body's lawyers, known for his proximity to Tihara, told the apex council members that he had tested positive for novel coronavirus. "We all freaked out as we had met Tihara till March 15 at various places. We told him that why weren't we informed as we all needed to quarantine ourselves. "He then changed track and said that if you people would have been COVID-19 positive, then you would have known by now. It was very suspicious," the Apex Council member who was suspended that day, said. In fact, some of the members are now wondering how did a letter signed by Tihara in support of one of the lawyers, whose service was being terminated, was submitted to Ombudsman, when all this while he had been in jail. It is understood that because of the lockdown, his bail plea has been deferred.

DDCA secretary Vinod Tihara in Meerut jail for past 1 month, colleagues thought he had COVID-19

<p>With COVID-19 pandemic wiping out the entire sporting calendar, sports bodies have been subjected to massive losses due to series and tournaments getting cancelled or postponed. Cricket Australia chief executive Kevin Roberts on Tuesday said that the four-match Test series between Australia and India, scheduled to be played later in 2020, could be extended to a five-match series with the entire rubber to be possibly played at a single venue.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) official has reacted to the proposal while stating the Indian cricket board hasn’t given it a thought yet as Australia is in lockdown until the end of September. The official added that they will see how CA plans to organize the ICC T20 World Cup and depending on that, the bilateral series between India and Australia will be planned out.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-cricket-is-just-not-a-sport-for-me-it-is-what-i-live-for-smriti-mandhana-opens-up-on-her-love-for-the-game-rapport-with-jemimah-and-much-more-293856" hreflang="en">Exclusive: 'Cricket is just not a sport for me, it is what I live for' - Smriti Mandhana opens up on her love for the game, rapport with Jemimah and much more</a></strong></p>

<p>“We haven’t given it a thought as yet. We have a World Cup and Australia is in lockdown (the country has closed its borders to all foreigners for six months) until the end of September. We have to see how they go for that (T20 World Cup). Depending on that, the bilateral series will be worked out," a BCCI official was quoted as saying by a leading daily.</p>

<p>Earlier, Roberts had said that CA is trying their best while exploring all viable options for the T20 World Cup and the bilateral series against India. Roberts added that they are ruling out the possibility of playing a five-match Test series against India at the same venue.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-australia-can-swap-hosting-t20-world-cup-in-2020-and-2021-suggests-sunil-gavaskar-293805" hreflang="en">India-Australia can swap hosting T20 World Cup in 2020 and 2021, suggests Sunil Gavaskar</a></strong></p>

<p>“Whether or not there are people at the venue or not; we will explore all viable options. Fortunately, we have a little bit of time to work through the different scenarios with the India series. But we are not ruling out any possibility for that at this point in time,” Roberts said about India vs Australia Test series which could see them make up some of the losses.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


With COVID-19 pandemic wiping out the entire sporting calendar, sports bodies have been subjected to massive losses due to series and tournaments getting cancelled or postponed.

With COVID-19 pandemic wiping out the entire sporting calendar, sports bodies have been subjected to massive losses due to series and tournaments getting cancelled or postponed. Cricket Australia chief executive Kevin Roberts on Tuesday said that the four-match Test series between Australia and India, scheduled to be played later in 2020, could be extended to a five-match series with the entire rubber to be possibly played at a single venue. A Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) official has reacted to the proposal while stating the Indian cricket board hasn’t given it a thought yet as Australia is in lockdown until the end of September. The official added that they will see how CA plans to organize the ICC T20 World Cup and depending on that, the bilateral series between India and Australia will be planned out. ALSO READ: Exclusive: 'Cricket is just not a sport for me, it is what I live for' - Smriti Mandhana opens up on her love for the game, rapport with Jemimah and much more “We haven’t given it a thought as yet. We have a World Cup and Australia is in lockdown (the country has closed its borders to all foreigners for six months) until the end of September. We have to see how they go for that (T20 World Cup). Depending on that, the bilateral series will be worked out," a BCCI official was quoted as saying by a leading daily. Earlier, Roberts had said that CA is trying their best while exploring all viable options for the T20 World Cup and the bilateral series against India. Roberts added that they are ruling out the possibility of playing a five-match Test series against India at the same venue. ALSO READ: India-Australia can swap hosting T20 World Cup in 2020 and 2021, suggests Sunil Gavaskar “Whether or not there are people at the venue or not; we will explore all viable options. Fortunately, we have a little bit of time to work through the different scenarios with the India series. But we are not ruling out any possibility for that at this point in time,” Roberts said about India vs Australia Test series which could see them make up some of the losses.

'We have to see how...' - BCCI reacts to Cricket Australia's proposal of hosting 5-Test series at single venue

<p>Prithvi Shaw has said the time away from the field, when he was serving a doping ban, was a ‘torture’ for him but the Young Indian batsman added that the phase made him hungrier for runs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 20-year-old was suspended by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in July 2019 until November 15 for ‘inadvertently’ taking a prohibited substance, found in cough syrups. Shaw admitted that while doubts and questions arose, he kept faith and belief in his talent.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It was a mistake. And the period away from cricket was torture," Shaw said while interacting with fans during an Instagram Live session on his IPL franchise Delhi Capitals' official handle.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-have-to-see-how-bcci-reacts-to-cricket-australias-proposal-of-hosting-5-test-series-at-single-venue-293973" hreflang="en">'We have to see how...' - BCCI reacts to Cricket Australia's proposal of hosting 5-Test series at single venue</a></strong></p>

<p>"Doubts and questions arise, but I kept the faith and belief. I spent some time in London where I was working on my fitness, as I wasn't allowed to bat anywhere. When the ban got over, and I returned to domestic cricket, I was hungrier than before.</p>

<p>"I picked up my bat and realised I hadn't lost my touch at all. If anything, that time off made me a more determined person," he said.</p>

<p>Mental health is another aspect which is being discussed a lot as almost the entire world continues to remain under lockdown to curb the spread of COVID-19. Shaw is of the view that it is a great time to work on it while adding that learning new things and perfecting it will help one grow calmer and become more patient.</p>

<p>"A lot of us don't have the patience for things in life, so now is a great time to work on it. Everyone should find something to do that they like, and work towards perfecting that. That process in itself will help one grow calmer and become more patient," he said.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-cricket-is-just-not-a-sport-for-me-it-is-what-i-live-for-smriti-mandhana-opens-up-on-her-love-for-the-game-rapport-with-jemimah-and-much-more-293856" hreflang="en">Exclusive: 'Cricket is just not a sport for me, it is what I live for' - Smriti Mandhana opens up on her love for the game, rapport with Jemimah and much more</a></strong></p>

<p>While players have been restricted to train indoors during the lockdown period, Shaw said he is working out indoors and shadow practising to maintain his fitness levels</p>

<p>"I've been working out a bit indoors and shadow practising to maintain my fitness levels.</p>

<p>"I've also been helping my father in the kitchen. I can cook eggs quite well, and I'm trying to learn a few new things. I've been playing some PUBG too."</p>


Prithvi Shaw has said the time away from the field, when he was serving a doping ban, was a ‘torture’ for him but the Young Indian batsman added that the phase made him hungrier for runs.

Prithvi Shaw has said the time away from the field, when he was serving a doping ban, was a ‘torture’ for him but the Young Indian batsman added that the phase made him hungrier for runs. The 20-year-old was suspended by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in July 2019 until November 15 for ‘inadvertently’ taking a prohibited substance, found in cough syrups. Shaw admitted that while doubts and questions arose, he kept faith and belief in his talent. "It was a mistake. And the period away from cricket was torture," Shaw said while interacting with fans during an Instagram Live session on his IPL franchise Delhi Capitals' official handle. ALSO READ: 'We have to see how...' - BCCI reacts to Cricket Australia's proposal of hosting 5-Test series at single venue "Doubts and questions arise, but I kept the faith and belief. I spent some time in London where I was working on my fitness, as I wasn't allowed to bat anywhere. When the ban got over, and I returned to domestic cricket, I was hungrier than before. "I picked up my bat and realised I hadn't lost my touch at all. If anything, that time off made me a more determined person," he said. Mental health is another aspect which is being discussed a lot as almost the entire world continues to remain under lockdown to curb the spread of COVID-19. Shaw is of the view that it is a great time to work on it while adding that learning new things and perfecting it will help one grow calmer and become more patient. "A lot of us don't have the patience for things in life, so now is a great time to work on it. Everyone should find something to do that they like, and work towards perfecting that. That process in itself will help one grow calmer and become more patient," he said. ALSO READ: Exclusive: 'Cricket is just not a sport for me, it is what I live for' - Smriti Mandhana opens up on her love for the game, rapport with Jemimah and much more While players have been restricted to train indoors during the lockdown period, Shaw said he is working out indoors and shadow practising to maintain his fitness levels "I've been working out a bit indoors and shadow practising to maintain my fitness levels. "I've also been helping my father in the kitchen. I can cook eggs quite well, and I'm trying to learn a few new things. I've been playing some PUBG too."

Period away from cricket was like torture but made me hungrier for runs: Prithvi Shaw

<p>The much-talked-about takeover of English club Newcastle United is set to be completed with Saudi-backed consortium PCP Capitals Partners paying the deposit amount while exchanging contracts with current owner Mike Ashley.</p>

<p>With contracts exchanged, the only element of the deal left is Premier League’s Owners and Directors’ Test, which verifies the ability to fund the club alongside checking any criminal records of those involved in a takeover.</p>

<p>After the Premier League’s Owners and Directors’ Test is completed, the remained of the £300m fee will be handed over to Ashley and the deal could be officially announced as early as the end of April.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mesut-ozil-refuses-to-take-pay-cut-despite-being-highest-earner-at-arsenal-293800" hreflang="en">Mesut Ozil refuses to take pay-cut despite being highest earner at Arsenal</a></strong></p>

<p>The Premier League began the background checks earlier in April on those involved in Amada Staveley’s consortium, which includes Saudi’s Crown Prince, Mohammed bin Salman.</p>

<p>Saudi’s Crown Price controls the country’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), which is set to own 80 per cent of Newcastle United’s shares.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, any issues relating to Saudi’s human rights record would need a review from the UK government to decide whether the deal could be finalized – an extremely unlikely prospect.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/august-deadline-on-agenda-as-uefa-gears-up-for-meeting-with-55-associations-293778" hreflang="en">August deadline on agenda as UEFA gears up for meeting with 55 associations</a></strong></p>

<p>Gary Caldwell, a product of Newcastle academy, was of the view that Newcastle United could achieve anything with the right backing, strategy and structure.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Caldwell told a leading British news portal: "It is a football-mad city, that with the right backing, strategy and structure behind the scenes it could achieve anything it wants in terms of where it goes because of the fantastic fan base that it has.</p>

<p>"For years now there has been conflict between the owner, the football team and the supporters.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


The much-talked-about takeover of English club Newcastle United is set to be completed with Saudi-backed consortium PCP Capitals Partners paying the deposit amount while exchanging contracts with current owner Mike Ashley.

The much-talked-about takeover of English club Newcastle United is set to be completed with Saudi-backed consortium PCP Capitals Partners paying the deposit amount while exchanging contracts with current owner Mike Ashley. With contracts exchanged, the only element of the deal left is Premier League’s Owners and Directors’ Test, which verifies the ability to fund the club alongside checking any criminal records of those involved in a takeover. After the Premier League’s Owners and Directors’ Test is completed, the remained of the £300m fee will be handed over to Ashley and the deal could be officially announced as early as the end of April. ALSO READ: Mesut Ozil refuses to take pay-cut despite being highest earner at Arsenal The Premier League began the background checks earlier in April on those involved in Amada Staveley’s consortium, which includes Saudi’s Crown Prince, Mohammed bin Salman. Saudi’s Crown Price controls the country’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), which is set to own 80 per cent of Newcastle United’s shares. However, any issues relating to Saudi’s human rights record would need a review from the UK government to decide whether the deal could be finalized – an extremely unlikely prospect. ALSO READ: August deadline on agenda as UEFA gears up for meeting with 55 associations Gary Caldwell, a product of Newcastle academy, was of the view that Newcastle United could achieve anything with the right backing, strategy and structure. Caldwell told a leading British news portal: "It is a football-mad city, that with the right backing, strategy and structure behind the scenes it could achieve anything it wants in terms of where it goes because of the fantastic fan base that it has. "For years now there has been conflict between the owner, the football team and the supporters.

Contracts exchanged and deposit paid: Newcastle United takeover set to be completed in blockbuster move

<p>Former India skipper Sunil Gavaskar has suggested swapping the hosts of next two ICC T20 World Cups, which is scheduled to be hosted by Australia (2020) and India (2021) given the COVID-19 curve flattens out in India in the next few weeks or months.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The coronavirus pandemic has wiped out the sporting calendar with dark clouds hovering over the ICC T20 World Cup 2020, scheduled to be hosted by Australia from October 18 to November 15. However, with Australia sealing its borders for the next six months, there are major concerns on how the country will host the showpiece event.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-australia-fears-losing-hundreds-of-millions-if-indias-tour-down-under-gets-affected-by-covid-19-293792" hreflang="en">Cricket Australia fears losing 'hundreds of millions' if India's tour Down Under gets affected by COVID-19</a></strong></p>

<p>"As we all know, Australia has barred foreigners from entering the country until 30 September. The tournament starts mid-October so it is looking difficult at the moment," Gavaskar told India Today.</p>

<p>"Next year the T20 World Cup is in India. If India and Australia come to an agreement and the COVID-19 curve in India flattens out, they can swap. It can be held in India this October-November and next year in Australia around the same time."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/the-situation-is-very-bad-tricky-shoaib-akhtar-predicts-no-cricket-for-next-one-year-293771" hreflang="en">'The situation is very bad, tricky': Shoaib Akhtar predicts no cricket for next one year</a></strong></p>

<p>The much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) was indefinitely postponed amid the COVID-19 pandemic but there is slight possibility of it being played in September, before the T20 World Cup. Gavaskar is of the view that IPL can be played before the T20 World Cup and players will get adequate practice for the marquee event without even travelling much.</p>

<p>"If it (T20 WC swap) happens that way, IPL is just held prior to T20 World Cup so there is enough practice for the players. Then you can have the T20 World Cup in November and Asia Cup in December in UAE. December is a much better time to host a tournament in the UAE," said the 70-year-old.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Former India skipper Sunil Gavaskar has suggested swapping the hosts of next two ICC T20 World Cups, which is scheduled to be hosted by Australia (2020) and India (2021) given the COVID-19 curve flattens out in India in the next few weeks or months.

Former India skipper Sunil Gavaskar has suggested swapping the hosts of next two ICC T20 World Cups, which is scheduled to be hosted by Australia (2020) and India (2021) given the COVID-19 curve flattens out in India in the next few weeks or months. The coronavirus pandemic has wiped out the sporting calendar with dark clouds hovering over the ICC T20 World Cup 2020, scheduled to be hosted by Australia from October 18 to November 15. However, with Australia sealing its borders for the next six months, there are major concerns on how the country will host the showpiece event. ALSO READ: Cricket Australia fears losing 'hundreds of millions' if India's tour Down Under gets affected by COVID-19 "As we all know, Australia has barred foreigners from entering the country until 30 September. The tournament starts mid-October so it is looking difficult at the moment," Gavaskar told India Today. "Next year the T20 World Cup is in India. If India and Australia come to an agreement and the COVID-19 curve in India flattens out, they can swap. It can be held in India this October-November and next year in Australia around the same time." ALSO READ: 'The situation is very bad, tricky': Shoaib Akhtar predicts no cricket for next one year The much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) was indefinitely postponed amid the COVID-19 pandemic but there is slight possibility of it being played in September, before the T20 World Cup. Gavaskar is of the view that IPL can be played before the T20 World Cup and players will get adequate practice for the marquee event without even travelling much. "If it (T20 WC swap) happens that way, IPL is just held prior to T20 World Cup so there is enough practice for the players. Then you can have the T20 World Cup in November and Asia Cup in December in UAE. December is a much better time to host a tournament in the UAE," said the 70-year-old.

India-Australia can swap hosting T20 World Cup in 2020 and 2021, suggests Sunil Gavaskar

<p>Cricket Australia (CA) is looking at all possible option in a bid to make sure India’s tour to Australia, scheduled to be played from November 2020 to January 2021, goes ahead as planned. CA chief executive Kevin Roberts has predicted losses to the tune of “hundreds of millions of dollars” if Virat Kohli-led Team India can’t tour Down Under.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Roberts further said an additional Test in the already scheduled four-match Test series, is an option with the entire rubber being played in one city at a stadium without any spectators. He further said that revenue from an ICC event is “very important” for all other counterparts around the cricket world and hence they will do “everything possible to stage and host the &nbsp;T20 World Cup”.</p>

<p>“We might not generate financial returns from that event that are as significant as the international cricket season (in Australia),” Roberts told reporters in a teleconference on Tuesday.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/the-situation-is-very-bad-tricky-shoaib-akhtar-predicts-no-cricket-for-next-one-year-293771" hreflang="en">'The situation is very bad, tricky': Shoaib Akhtar predicts no cricket for next one year</a></strong></p>

<p>“But what we do know is that the bigger returns from the broadcast rights around the event that are generated by the ICC are very important to all of our counterparts around the cricket world.</p>

<p>“So it’s incumbent on us to do everything possible to stage and host the T20 World Cup.”</p>

<p>CA has already stood down the majority of its staff and warned players of pay cuts after suffering $20 million hit due to COVID-19 pandemic.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/umar-akmal-summoned-as-disciplinary-panel-sets-hearing-for-april-27-293597" hreflang="en">Umar Akmal summoned as disciplinary panel sets hearing for April 27</a></strong></p>

<p>“If you contemplate the prospect of the international season, in particular, being affected, we have an issue of hundreds of millions of dollars on our hands,” Roberts said.</p>

<p>“So it’s very important that ... we do everything possible to stage the season.”</p>

<p>&nbsp;“Whether or not there’s people at the venue or not ... we will explore all viable options,” Roberts said.</p>

<p>“Fortunately we have a little bit of time to work through the different scenarios with the India series. But we’re not ruling out any possibility for that at this point in time.”</p>

<p>Roberts further defended CA’s stance on standing down the majority of its staff on around 20 per cent of their usual pay for the rest of the financial year. Interestingly, CA had signed a broadcast deal worth $1.2 billion in 2018.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“On one level, cricket is fortunate in terms of the time of year when the coronavirus situation hit,” Roberts said while adding, “on another level, cricket is unfortunate in that it has hit us at the lowest point of our four-year cash cycle.”</p>

<p>“We were completely on track with our plan for the year until coronavirus hit,” Roberts said.</p>

<p>“The unfortunate reality of that is we’re estimating that we have taken a $20m impact thus far.</p>

<p>“And we have to anticipate, given the unknown and fast-moving nature of this situation, that there will be more risks than that $20m.”</p>

<p><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Cricket Australia (CA) is looking at all possible option in a bid to make sure India’s tour to Australia, scheduled to be played from November 2020 to January 2021, goes ahead as planned.

Cricket Australia (CA) is looking at all possible option in a bid to make sure India’s tour to Australia, scheduled to be played from November 2020 to January 2021, goes ahead as planned. CA chief executive Kevin Roberts has predicted losses to the tune of “hundreds of millions of dollars” if Virat Kohli-led Team India can’t tour Down Under. Roberts further said an additional Test in the already scheduled four-match Test series, is an option with the entire rubber being played in one city at a stadium without any spectators. He further said that revenue from an ICC event is “very important” for all other counterparts around the cricket world and hence they will do “everything possible to stage and host the T20 World Cup”. “We might not generate financial returns from that event that are as significant as the international cricket season (in Australia),” Roberts told reporters in a teleconference on Tuesday. ALSO READ: 'The situation is very bad, tricky': Shoaib Akhtar predicts no cricket for next one year “But what we do know is that the bigger returns from the broadcast rights around the event that are generated by the ICC are very important to all of our counterparts around the cricket world. “So it’s incumbent on us to do everything possible to stage and host the T20 World Cup.” CA has already stood down the majority of its staff and warned players of pay cuts after suffering $20 million hit due to COVID-19 pandemic. ALSO READ: Umar Akmal summoned as disciplinary panel sets hearing for April 27 “If you contemplate the prospect of the international season, in particular, being affected, we have an issue of hundreds of millions of dollars on our hands,” Roberts said. “So it’s very important that ... we do everything possible to stage the season.” “Whether or not there’s people at the venue or not ... we will explore all viable options,” Roberts said. “Fortunately we have a little bit of time to work through the different scenarios with the India series. But we’re not ruling out any possibility for that at this point in time.” Roberts further defended CA’s stance on standing down the majority of its staff on around 20 per cent of their usual pay for the rest of the financial year. Interestingly, CA had signed a broadcast deal worth $1.2 billion in 2018. “On one level, cricket is fortunate in terms of the time of year when the coronavirus situation hit,” Roberts said while adding, “on another level, cricket is unfortunate in that it has hit us at the lowest point of our four-year cash cycle.” “We were completely on track with our plan for the year until coronavirus hit,” Roberts said. “The unfortunate reality of that is we’re estimating that we have taken a $20m impact thus far. “And we have to anticipate, given the unknown and fast-moving nature of this situation, that there will be more risks than that $20m.”

Cricket Australia fears losing 'hundreds of millions' if India's tour Down Under gets affected by COVID-19

<p>With coronavirus pandemic wiping out the entire sporting calendar, sportspersons have been restricted to train indoors with no live sporting action happening at the moment. While many tournaments and series have been either postponed or cancelled, there are dark clouds hovering around the resumption of matches. Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar reckons that cricket would not be played for at least a year due to COVID-19 pandemic as he said that with people getting infected rapidly, one can’t go ahead with any sort of cricket anywhere around the world.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“If you ask me honestly, I do not know for how long the coronavirus outbreak will last, until and unless it is not known that how many people are infected, one cannot go ahead with any kind of cricket anywhere,” Akhtar said in a video posted on his YouTube channel.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/umar-akmal-summoned-as-disciplinary-panel-sets-hearing-for-april-27-293597" hreflang="en">Umar Akmal summoned as disciplinary panel sets hearing for April 27</a></strong></p>

<p>“I do not see cricket being played for at least a year due to the coronavirus. I see the virus troubling us for one year, these are troublesome times, I just hope we come out of this stronger,” he added.</p>

<p>“The situation is very bad; it is very tricky. I am not seeing the virus going for at least one year. But, we a group as different communities will come out of it. The world is not starting for the next one year, how can cricket start,” Akhtar further said.</p>

<p>There are speculations that bowlers would not be allowed to apply saliva to shine the ball after the resumption of play post coronavirus pandemic. Akhtar is of the view that bowlers won’t be able to apply saliva on the ball as it goes in the hands of players and spectators in the stadium.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kl-rahul-donates-icc-world-cup-2019-bat-and-other-memorabilia-on-his-28th-birthday-293582" hreflang="en">KL Rahul donates ICC World Cup 2019 bat and other memorabilia on his 28th birthday</a></strong></p>

<p>“I do not think that one can apply saliva on the ball now, we as bowlers apply saliva on the ball to make the ball shinier, the ball goes in the hands of everyone on the park, I saw a report of the ICC which said bowlers would not be able to apply saliva on the ball, Akhtar said.</p>

<p>“Cricket is a game which requires contact, if ICC is thinking about passing the law related to applying saliva on the ball, then I welcome the decision keeping coronavirus in mind,” he added.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, South Africa’s tour of Sri Lanka is the latest bilateral series to be postponed amid the COVID-19 pandemic.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


With coronavirus pandemic wiping out the entire sporting calendar, sportspersons have been restricted to train indoors with no live sporting action happening at the moment.

With coronavirus pandemic wiping out the entire sporting calendar, sportspersons have been restricted to train indoors with no live sporting action happening at the moment. While many tournaments and series have been either postponed or cancelled, there are dark clouds hovering around the resumption of matches. Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar reckons that cricket would not be played for at least a year due to COVID-19 pandemic as he said that with people getting infected rapidly, one can’t go ahead with any sort of cricket anywhere around the world. “If you ask me honestly, I do not know for how long the coronavirus outbreak will last, until and unless it is not known that how many people are infected, one cannot go ahead with any kind of cricket anywhere,” Akhtar said in a video posted on his YouTube channel. ALSO READ: Umar Akmal summoned as disciplinary panel sets hearing for April 27 “I do not see cricket being played for at least a year due to the coronavirus. I see the virus troubling us for one year, these are troublesome times, I just hope we come out of this stronger,” he added. “The situation is very bad; it is very tricky. I am not seeing the virus going for at least one year. But, we a group as different communities will come out of it. The world is not starting for the next one year, how can cricket start,” Akhtar further said. There are speculations that bowlers would not be allowed to apply saliva to shine the ball after the resumption of play post coronavirus pandemic. Akhtar is of the view that bowlers won’t be able to apply saliva on the ball as it goes in the hands of players and spectators in the stadium. ALSO READ: KL Rahul donates ICC World Cup 2019 bat and other memorabilia on his 28th birthday “I do not think that one can apply saliva on the ball now, we as bowlers apply saliva on the ball to make the ball shinier, the ball goes in the hands of everyone on the park, I saw a report of the ICC which said bowlers would not be able to apply saliva on the ball, Akhtar said. “Cricket is a game which requires contact, if ICC is thinking about passing the law related to applying saliva on the ball, then I welcome the decision keeping coronavirus in mind,” he added. Meanwhile, South Africa’s tour of Sri Lanka is the latest bilateral series to be postponed amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

'The situation is very bad, tricky': Shoaib Akhtar predicts no cricket for next one year

<p>Chairman of Pakistan’s Disciplinary Panel – Justice (retired) Fazal-e-Miran Chauhan on Monday issued notices to cricketer Umar Akmal and Pakistan Cricket Board requiring their attendance for hearing on April 27.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The hearing for the Umar Akmal case is scheduled to be held at the National Cricket Academy in Lahore and all safety measures including social distancing will be followed in order to safeguard all amid the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Umar was charged for two breaches of Article 2.4.4 of the PCB Anti-Corruption Code in two unrelated cases and the veteran batsman decided not to request for a hearing before the Anti-Corruption Tribunal.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kl-rahul-donates-icc-world-cup-2019-bat-and-other-memorabilia-on-his-28th-birthday-293582" hreflang="en">KL Rahul donates ICC World Cup 2019 bat and other memorabilia on his 28th birthday</a></strong></p>

<p>On February 20, PCB had suspended Umar with immediate effect under Article 4.7.1 of the PCB Anti-Corruption Code and that meant he couldn’t take part in any cricket related activity pending an investigation by PCB’s Anti-Corruption Unit.</p>

<p>Umar was issued a Notice of Charge by the PCB under its Anti-Corruption Code on March 17 and the cricketer had responded to it within the stipulated deadline.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Article 2.4.4 of the PCB Anti-Corruption Code reads as: “Failing to disclose to the PCB Vigilance and Security Department (without unnecessary delay) full details of any approaches or invitations received by the Participant to engage in Corrupt Conduct under this Anti-Corruption Code”.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/south-africa-tour-of-sri-lanka-in-june-postponed-amid-covid-19-pandemic-293550" hreflang="en">South Africa tour of Sri Lanka in June postponed amid COVID-19 pandemic</a></strong></p>

<p>Article 4.8.1 of the PCB Anti-Corruption Code reads as: “In such circumstances, a hearing before the Anti-Corruption Tribunal shall not be required. Instead, the Chairman of the Disciplinary Panel (sitting alone) shall issue a public decision confirming the offence(s) under this Anti-Corruption Code specified in the Notice of Charge and the imposition of an applicable sanction within the range specified in the Notice of Charge. Before issuing that public decision, the Chairman of the Disciplinary Panel will provide written notice of that decision to the National Cricket Federation to which the Participant is affiliated, the PCB Vigilance and Security Department and the ICC.”</p>

<p>Umar, if found guilty, could face a minimum of six months and a maximum of lifetime ban under Article 2.4.4.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Chairman of Pakistan’s Disciplinary Panel – Justice (retired) Fazal-e-Miran Chauhan on Monday issued notices to cricketer Umar Akmal and Pakistan Cricket Board requiring their attendance for hearing on April 27.

Chairman of Pakistan’s Disciplinary Panel – Justice (retired) Fazal-e-Miran Chauhan on Monday issued notices to cricketer Umar Akmal and Pakistan Cricket Board requiring their attendance for hearing on April 27. The hearing for the Umar Akmal case is scheduled to be held at the National Cricket Academy in Lahore and all safety measures including social distancing will be followed in order to safeguard all amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Umar was charged for two breaches of Article 2.4.4 of the PCB Anti-Corruption Code in two unrelated cases and the veteran batsman decided not to request for a hearing before the Anti-Corruption Tribunal. ALSO READ: KL Rahul donates ICC World Cup 2019 bat and other memorabilia on his 28th birthday On February 20, PCB had suspended Umar with immediate effect under Article 4.7.1 of the PCB Anti-Corruption Code and that meant he couldn’t take part in any cricket related activity pending an investigation by PCB’s Anti-Corruption Unit. Umar was issued a Notice of Charge by the PCB under its Anti-Corruption Code on March 17 and the cricketer had responded to it within the stipulated deadline. Article 2.4.4 of the PCB Anti-Corruption Code reads as: “Failing to disclose to the PCB Vigilance and Security Department (without unnecessary delay) full details of any approaches or invitations received by the Participant to engage in Corrupt Conduct under this Anti-Corruption Code”. ALSO READ: South Africa tour of Sri Lanka in June postponed amid COVID-19 pandemic Article 4.8.1 of the PCB Anti-Corruption Code reads as: “In such circumstances, a hearing before the Anti-Corruption Tribunal shall not be required. Instead, the Chairman of the Disciplinary Panel (sitting alone) shall issue a public decision confirming the offence(s) under this Anti-Corruption Code specified in the Notice of Charge and the imposition of an applicable sanction within the range specified in the Notice of Charge. Before issuing that public decision, the Chairman of the Disciplinary Panel will provide written notice of that decision to the National Cricket Federation to which the Participant is affiliated, the PCB Vigilance and Security Department and the ICC.” Umar, if found guilty, could face a minimum of six months and a maximum of lifetime ban under Article 2.4.4.

Umar Akmal summoned as disciplinary panel sets hearing for April 27

<p>Indian batsman KL Rahul, along with his brand Gully, has&nbsp;donated a lot of cricket memorabilia including his ICC World Cup 2019 bat, for auction, in a bid to raise funds for ‘Aware Foundation’. The foundation looks after needy children and Rahul said he couldn’t have picked a better day to donate for the noble cause than his 28th birthday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rahul celebrated his 28th birthday on Saturday and made sure to sign off in style. Rahul has been one of the active cricketers to be involved in charitable causes on a consistent note. In the past, Rahul has donated funds to numerous animal welfare organisations and even paid for the treatment of a child suffering from cancer. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/playing-under-anil-kumble-gave-ms-dhoni-experience-in-test-cricket-krishnamachari-srikkanth-293541" hreflang="en">Playing under Anil Kumble gave MS Dhoni experience in Test cricket: Krishnamachari Srikkanth</a></strong></p>

<p>“Since it’s a special day for me, me and Gully have decided to something very sweet and something very special,” Rahul said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I have decided to donate my cricket pads, my gloves, helmets and some of my jerseys to our collaboration partner Bharat Army. They are going to auction these things out and the funds will go towards the Aware Foundation.</p>

<p>“It’s a foundation that look towards helping children. It is very special and I couldn’t pick a better day to do this.”</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-unlikely-to-take-call-on-t20-world-cup-before-august-293526" hreflang="en">ICC unlikely to take call on T20 World Cup before August</a></strong></p>

<p>The elegant right-handed batsman has also voiced his support for Phool Versha, a charitable organization feeding the needy in the time of lockdown.</p>

<p>Rahul has also supported Stray Happy, an organization that feeds stray animals in Bengaluru.</p>

<p>Last one year has been extremely topsy-turvy for Rahul, who was involved in an entertainment chat-show controversy before emerging as one of the crucial players for Team India in the limited-overs circuit. In the last couple of series, Rahul has taken over Rishabh Pant as the numero uno behind the stumps while opening the innings and sometimes even playing in the middle-order.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Indian batsman KL Rahul, along with his brand Gully, has donated a lot of cricket memorabilia including his ICC World Cup 2019 bat, for auction, in a bid to raise funds for ‘Aware Foundation’.

Indian batsman KL Rahul, along with his brand Gully, has donated a lot of cricket memorabilia including his ICC World Cup 2019 bat, for auction, in a bid to raise funds for ‘Aware Foundation’. The foundation looks after needy children and Rahul said he couldn’t have picked a better day to donate for the noble cause than his 28th birthday. Rahul celebrated his 28th birthday on Saturday and made sure to sign off in style. Rahul has been one of the active cricketers to be involved in charitable causes on a consistent note. In the past, Rahul has donated funds to numerous animal welfare organisations and even paid for the treatment of a child suffering from cancer. ALSO READ: Playing under Anil Kumble gave MS Dhoni experience in Test cricket: Krishnamachari Srikkanth “Since it’s a special day for me, me and Gully have decided to something very sweet and something very special,” Rahul said. “I have decided to donate my cricket pads, my gloves, helmets and some of my jerseys to our collaboration partner Bharat Army. They are going to auction these things out and the funds will go towards the Aware Foundation. “It’s a foundation that look towards helping children. It is very special and I couldn’t pick a better day to do this.” ALSO READ: ICC unlikely to take call on T20 World Cup before August The elegant right-handed batsman has also voiced his support for Phool Versha, a charitable organization feeding the needy in the time of lockdown. Rahul has also supported Stray Happy, an organization that feeds stray animals in Bengaluru. Last one year has been extremely topsy-turvy for Rahul, who was involved in an entertainment chat-show controversy before emerging as one of the crucial players for Team India in the limited-overs circuit. In the last couple of series, Rahul has taken over Rishabh Pant as the numero uno behind the stumps while opening the innings and sometimes even playing in the middle-order.

KL Rahul donates ICC World Cup 2019 bat and other memorabilia on his 28th birthday

<p>The FA, Premier League and UEFA are all gearing up for the return of live football after the postponement of almost all the leagues and tournaments amid COVID-19 pandemic. However, as former Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur director of football Damien Comolli reckons players will face an insurance issue if they contract coronavirus after the resumption of play.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Premier League is determined to finish the halted 2019/20 season, however, players can raise some valid questions in relation to their safety and well-being given they don’t have COVID-19 clause in their current insurances.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Sorry if I’m being dramatic but let’s assume the Premier League starts and suddenly (a player) catches the virus and then dies or gets severe lung damage and he can’t play football anymore, what’s going to happen?” Comolli said a leading British news portal.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/resumption-of-champions-league-in-august-postponement-of-202021-ucl-season-likely-reports-293535" hreflang="en">Resumption of Champions League in August; postponement of 2020/21 UCL season likely: Reports</a></strong></p>

<p>“Is the player going to say my contract ended on June 30, you forced me to play?”</p>

<p>Comolli further said that the transfer window could be extremely different with drop-in players’ price inevitable. He reckons there will be more loan and swap deals after the summer transfer window opens.</p>

<p>“An agent was saying the other day only three clubs in the Premier League will be able to spend money. If that’s the case I think the transfer window will be very different.</p>

<p>“We might see swaps, we might see loans and we are going to a see a massive decrease in transfer fees and activity – at least transfers involving money.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-unlikely-to-take-call-on-t20-world-cup-before-august-293526" hreflang="en">ICC unlikely to take call on T20 World Cup before August</a></strong></p>

<p>“The more this crisis goes on and the clubs are in a difficult situation financially, the first thing that will be impacted will be player remuneration and the second thing will be transfer fees.</p>

<p>“I think it’ll be very difficult not to finish the season for a lot of different reasons, one is financial but as an industry football has a duty to entertain.</p>

<p>Comolli is of the view that the entire year of 2020 could be played behind closed doors amid the COVID-19 pandemic while adding that resumption of live football would be something positive for everyone.</p>

<p>“Now it is not the right thing to talk about it but we have a duty to fans, they want something else at night or during the day to think about, other than the virus and the issues. I think it’d be something positive.</p>

<p>“Personally I wouldn’t be surprised if we couldn’t play with any fans until the end of 2020.”<br />
&nbsp;<br />
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The FA, Premier League and UEFA are all gearing up for the return of live football after the postponement of almost all the leagues and tournaments amid COVID-19 pandemic.

The FA, Premier League and UEFA are all gearing up for the return of live football after the postponement of almost all the leagues and tournaments amid COVID-19 pandemic. However, as former Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur director of football Damien Comolli reckons players will face an insurance issue if they contract coronavirus after the resumption of play. Premier League is determined to finish the halted 2019/20 season, however, players can raise some valid questions in relation to their safety and well-being given they don’t have COVID-19 clause in their current insurances. “Sorry if I’m being dramatic but let’s assume the Premier League starts and suddenly (a player) catches the virus and then dies or gets severe lung damage and he can’t play football anymore, what’s going to happen?” Comolli said a leading British news portal. ALSO READ: Resumption of Champions League in August; postponement of 2020/21 UCL season likely: Reports “Is the player going to say my contract ended on June 30, you forced me to play?” Comolli further said that the transfer window could be extremely different with drop-in players’ price inevitable. He reckons there will be more loan and swap deals after the summer transfer window opens. “An agent was saying the other day only three clubs in the Premier League will be able to spend money. If that’s the case I think the transfer window will be very different. “We might see swaps, we might see loans and we are going to a see a massive decrease in transfer fees and activity – at least transfers involving money. ALSO READ: ICC unlikely to take call on T20 World Cup before August “The more this crisis goes on and the clubs are in a difficult situation financially, the first thing that will be impacted will be player remuneration and the second thing will be transfer fees. “I think it’ll be very difficult not to finish the season for a lot of different reasons, one is financial but as an industry football has a duty to entertain. Comolli is of the view that the entire year of 2020 could be played behind closed doors amid the COVID-19 pandemic while adding that resumption of live football would be something positive for everyone. “Now it is not the right thing to talk about it but we have a duty to fans, they want something else at night or during the day to think about, other than the virus and the issues. I think it’d be something positive. “Personally I wouldn’t be surprised if we couldn’t play with any fans until the end of 2020.”

'What if player catches virus?' - Insurance issues likely to be stumbling block before resumption of Premier League

<p>Cricket South Africa (CSA) and Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) on Monday jointly announced that the South Africa tour to Sri Lanka, consisting of three ODIs and as many T20Is&nbsp;scheduled to be played in June,&nbsp;has been postponed amid the COVID-19 pandemic</p>

<p>The three-match ODI series against Sri Lanka would have been South Africa’s first rubber in the ICC’s fresh one-day League.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It is very sad that we have been forced to take this step and we will re-schedule the tour as soon as cricket returns to a sense of normality and our international fixture list allows,” commented CSA Acting Chief Executive Dr. Jacques Faul.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-unlikely-to-take-call-on-t20-world-cup-before-august-293526" hreflang="en">ICC unlikely to take call on T20 World Cup before August</a></strong></p>

<p>“Our Proteas would not have been able to prepare properly taking our own lockdown situation into account and, more importantly, health considerations for our players, which are always paramount, were the over-riding factor,” he added.</p>

<p>“It would have been a particularly important tour for us with the three ODIs counting for the new ICC one-day league and the T20 programme being part of our preparation for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup scheduled for Australia later this year. It is very frustrating for the players who want to build on the good form they showed at the backend of our home summer against Australia,” Dr. Faul concluded.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bit-surprised-by-cas-financial-health-but-we-will-work-together-overcome-crisis-hazlewood-293519" hreflang="en">Bit surprised by CA's financial health but we will work together overcome crisis: Hazlewood</a></strong></p>

<p>The one-day League is part of the Future Tours Programme (FTP) and was scheduled to start in May. The 13-team league is scheduled to run through to March 2022 and is part of ICC World Cup 2023 qualification progress. However, with series getting postponed day in and day out, the FTP including the one-day League needs to be revisited and checked which series can be played and which needs complete cancellation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, Sri Lanka Cricket president Shammi Silva had proposed to host the already-postponed Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 in Sri Lanka as he said it would save the BCCI from major losses and will financially help Sri Lanka.&nbsp;<br />
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Cricket South Africa (CSA) and Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) on Monday jointly announced that the South Africa tour to Sri Lanka, consisting of three ODIs and as many T20Is scheduled to be played in June, has been postponed amid the COVID-19 pandemic The three-match ODI series against Sri Lanka would have been South Africa’s first rubber in the ICC’s fresh one-day League.

Cricket South Africa (CSA) and Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) on Monday jointly announced that the South Africa tour to Sri Lanka, consisting of three ODIs and as many T20Is scheduled to be played in June, has been postponed amid the COVID-19 pandemic The three-match ODI series against Sri Lanka would have been South Africa’s first rubber in the ICC’s fresh one-day League. “It is very sad that we have been forced to take this step and we will re-schedule the tour as soon as cricket returns to a sense of normality and our international fixture list allows,” commented CSA Acting Chief Executive Dr. Jacques Faul. ALSO READ: ICC unlikely to take call on T20 World Cup before August “Our Proteas would not have been able to prepare properly taking our own lockdown situation into account and, more importantly, health considerations for our players, which are always paramount, were the over-riding factor,” he added. “It would have been a particularly important tour for us with the three ODIs counting for the new ICC one-day league and the T20 programme being part of our preparation for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup scheduled for Australia later this year. It is very frustrating for the players who want to build on the good form they showed at the backend of our home summer against Australia,” Dr. Faul concluded. ALSO READ: Bit surprised by CA's financial health but we will work together overcome crisis: Hazlewood The one-day League is part of the Future Tours Programme (FTP) and was scheduled to start in May. The 13-team league is scheduled to run through to March 2022 and is part of ICC World Cup 2023 qualification progress. However, with series getting postponed day in and day out, the FTP including the one-day League needs to be revisited and checked which series can be played and which needs complete cancellation. Earlier, Sri Lanka Cricket president Shammi Silva had proposed to host the already-postponed Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 in Sri Lanka as he said it would save the BCCI from major losses and will financially help Sri Lanka.

South Africa tour of Sri Lanka in June postponed amid COVID-19 pandemic

<p class="MsoNormal">Former India opener and chief selector, Krishnamachari Srikkanth has said that MS Dhoni learning the nitty-gritty of captaincy and gaining experience while playing under Anil Kumble helped the wicketkeeper-batsman to grow in confidence as a leader.&nbsp;</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Srikkanth said that while Ganguly brought the sense of aggressiveness with him, Dhoni was completely opposite to that and learning under Kumble boosted his confidence a lot besides gaining from the journey in the 2007 T20 World Cup triumph. Dhoni was handed over the captaincy in the T20 World Cup after many experienced players pulled out from the tournament and the rest is history.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-unlikely-to-take-call-on-t20-world-cup-before-august-293526" hreflang="en">ICC unlikely to take call on T20 World Cup before August</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“When Dhoni was the captain in the 2007 T20 World Cup, he handled the side really well, the win boosted his confidence. He has always been calm and cool, he has motivated the players, aggressive culture was brought in by Sourav Ganguly, MS was totally opposite of that, when Kumble was the captain of the Test side, it was a good chance for Dhoni to learn,” Srikkanth said in an interview.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">However, Srikkanth is of the view that it was Kumble’s guidance which gave Dhoni the confidence and experience to lead Team India. “Anil gave him much-needed experience, Dhoni gave a lot of confidence to the players,” he added.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bit-surprised-by-cas-financial-health-but-we-will-work-together-overcome-crisis-hazlewood-293519" hreflang="en">Bit surprised by CA's financial health but we will work together overcome crisis: Hazlewood</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Dhoni is the only captain to win all three ICC tournaments. Under Dhoni’s captaincy, India won the WT20 in 2007, the Cricket World cup in 2011 and the Champions trophy in 2013. His leadership was crucial to India becoming the No. 1 Test side as well.&nbsp;<br />
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Former India opener and chief selector, Krishnamachari Srikkanth has said that MS Dhoni learning the nitty-gritty of captaincy and gaining experience while playing under Anil Kumble helped the wicketkeeper-batsman to grow in confidence as a leader.

Former India opener and chief selector, Krishnamachari Srikkanth has said that MS Dhoni learning the nitty-gritty of captaincy and gaining experience while playing under Anil Kumble helped the wicketkeeper-batsman to grow in confidence as a leader. Srikkanth said that while Ganguly brought the sense of aggressiveness with him, Dhoni was completely opposite to that and learning under Kumble boosted his confidence a lot besides gaining from the journey in the 2007 T20 World Cup triumph. Dhoni was handed over the captaincy in the T20 World Cup after many experienced players pulled out from the tournament and the rest is history. ALSO READ: ICC unlikely to take call on T20 World Cup before August “When Dhoni was the captain in the 2007 T20 World Cup, he handled the side really well, the win boosted his confidence. He has always been calm and cool, he has motivated the players, aggressive culture was brought in by Sourav Ganguly, MS was totally opposite of that, when Kumble was the captain of the Test side, it was a good chance for Dhoni to learn,” Srikkanth said in an interview. However, Srikkanth is of the view that it was Kumble’s guidance which gave Dhoni the confidence and experience to lead Team India. “Anil gave him much-needed experience, Dhoni gave a lot of confidence to the players,” he added. ALSO READ: Bit surprised by CA's financial health but we will work together overcome crisis: Hazlewood Dhoni is the only captain to win all three ICC tournaments. Under Dhoni’s captaincy, India won the WT20 in 2007, the Cricket World cup in 2011 and the Champions trophy in 2013. His leadership was crucial to India becoming the No. 1 Test side as well.

Playing under Anil Kumble gave MS Dhoni experience in Test cricket: Krishnamachari Srikkanth

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