After US President Donald Trump threatened the International Criminal Court (ICC) of sanctions if they carry out investigations against US troops, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu showed his support for this move on Thursday.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

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"This court is politicised and obsessed with carrying out a headhunt against Israel and the United States as well as other democratic countries that respect human rights, but turns a blind eye to the world's worst human rights offenders, including the terrorist regime in Iran," Netanyahu said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-authorises-sanctions-over-icc-afghanistan-war-crimes-case-305171">Trump authorises sanctions over ICC Afghanistan war crimes case</a>

Earlier on Thursday, Trump passed an executive order to block all property and assets in the US of anyone involved in investigating or prosecuting American forces.

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said that the US administration would not let its forces be "threatened by a kangaroo court".

The Trump administration has been furious with ICC over its probe into alleged atrocities in Afghanistan, the longest-running war of the US.&nbsp;

In December 2019, when Hague-based court's chief prosecutor said of opening a full probe into alleged war crimes in the Palestinian regions, sharp reactions were seen from Israel and the US.

Both the US and Israel, its main Middle East ally, have refused to sign up to the ICC since its formation in 2002.&nbsp;

(With inputs from AFP)

After US President Donald Trump threatened the International Criminal Court (ICC) of sanctions if they carry out investigations against US troops, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu showed his support for this move on Thursday.

After US President Donald Trump threatened the International Criminal Court (ICC) of sanctions if they carry out investigations against US troops, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu showed his support for this move on Thursday. Watch | "This court is politicised and obsessed with carrying out a headhunt against Israel and the United States as well as other democratic countries that respect human rights, but turns a blind eye to the world's worst human rights offenders, including the terrorist regime in Iran," Netanyahu said. Also read | Trump authorises sanctions over ICC Afghanistan war crimes case Earlier on Thursday, Trump passed an executive order to block all property and assets in the US of anyone involved in investigating or prosecuting American forces. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said that the US administration would not let its forces be "threatened by a kangaroo court". The Trump administration has been furious with ICC over its probe into alleged atrocities in Afghanistan, the longest-running war of the US. In December 2019, when Hague-based court's chief prosecutor said of opening a full probe into alleged war crimes in the Palestinian regions, sharp reactions were seen from Israel and the US. Both the US and Israel, its main Middle East ally, have refused to sign up to the ICC since its formation in 2002. (With inputs from AFP)

Benjamin Netanyahu backs Donald Trump's threat to impose sanctions on ICC

US President Donald Trump has announced hefty sanctions on International Criminal Court (ICC) officials investigating abuses by Americans and Israelis.

WION Fineprint: US imposes sanctions on ICC officials

ICC has said that it will take a "common sense approach" if any sort of on-field protests takes place over the killing of George Floyd when the sports resumes next month.&nbsp;

Several cricketers have taken to streets and social media to vent out their anger over the killing of an unarmed African American in Minneapolis.&nbsp;

ICC normally acts against players who take a political stand. But the board released a statement which read: &nbsp;"The ICC stands against racism and is proud of the diversity of our sport.

"We support players using their platform to appropriately express their support for a more equitable society.

"We will exercise a common-sense approach to the implementation of regulations in relation to this issue and they will be assessed on a case-by-case basis by the match officials."

Kneeling has become a symbol to stat that "Black Lives Matter" and the West Indies captain Jason Holder will consider whether to take the knee when they start their three-Test tour in England in July.

England's pacer spearhead Jofra Archer was racially abused by a fan during a Test against New Zealand. During an interview with Daily Mail newspaper he said: "As an individual, I've always been one for speaking out, especially if something bothers you. My personal view is that you should never keep things bottled up because racism is not okay."

ICC has said that it will take a "common sense approach" if any sort of on-field protests takes place over the killing of George Floyd when the sports resumes next month.

ICC has said that it will take a "common sense approach" if any sort of on-field protests takes place over the killing of George Floyd when the sports resumes next month. Several cricketers have taken to streets and social media to vent out their anger over the killing of an unarmed African American in Minneapolis. ICC normally acts against players who take a political stand. But the board released a statement which read: "The ICC stands against racism and is proud of the diversity of our sport. "We support players using their platform to appropriately express their support for a more equitable society. "We will exercise a common-sense approach to the implementation of regulations in relation to this issue and they will be assessed on a case-by-case basis by the match officials." Kneeling has become a symbol to stat that "Black Lives Matter" and the West Indies captain Jason Holder will consider whether to take the knee when they start their three-Test tour in England in July. England's pacer spearhead Jofra Archer was racially abused by a fan during a Test against New Zealand. During an interview with Daily Mail newspaper he said: "As an individual, I've always been one for speaking out, especially if something bothers you. My personal view is that you should never keep things bottled up because racism is not okay."

ICC to use 'common sense' if players resort to on-field protest at Floyd death

Addressing the 125th Annual Session of CII, the Prime Minister said: "World is looking for a trusted, reliable partner.

India: People, Planet, Profit: PM Modi Addresses Indian Chamber of Commerce

Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivers the inaugural address on the occasion of the 95th annual plenary session of Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC) today.

'Must work on reducing imports and to make self-reliant India', says PM Modi

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday confirmed interim changes to its playing regulations, which includes a ban on the usage of saliva and scrapping of neutral umpires. The ICC Chief Executive Committee (CEC) ratified the recommendations from the Anil Kumble-led Cricket Committee in a bid to protect the safety of players and officials when cricket resumes.

Apart from the ban on usage of saliva, the ICC also allowed COVID-19 replacements as teams will now be allowed to substitute players displaying symptoms of COVID-19 during a Test match. The Match Referee will approve the nearest like-for-like replacement in like with the concussion substitution.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-confidentiality-issue-to-fate-of-t20-world-cup-what-to-expect-from-the-crucial-icc-board-meeting-304574" hreflang="en">From confidentiality issue to fate of T20 World Cup: What to expect from the crucial ICC Board meeting</a>

COVID-19 Replacements: Teams will be allowed to replace players displaying symptoms of COVID-19 during a Test match. In line with concussion replacements, the Match Referee will approve the nearest like-for-like replacement. However, COVID-19 replacement won’t be applicable in ODI and T20I cricket.&nbsp;

Players will not be permitted to use saliva on the ball and if a player mistakenly applied saliva then the umpires will show some leniency in the initial phase but subsequent instances will result in the team receiving an official warning. A total of two warnings are allowed per innings and will be followed by a five-run penalty to the batting side. The umpires will clean the ball before play resumes whenever saliva is applied to the ball.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/saliva-ban-a-fresh-headache-for-swing-bowlers-299946">Saliva ban: A fresh headache for swing bowlers</a>

Neutral match officials will be scrapped for all international formats owning to logistical challenges due to COVID-19 pandemic. The ICC will appoint officials from the ICC Elite Panel of Match Officials and International Panel of Match Officials.

The CEC also announced an additional unsuccessful DRS for each team in each innings of the match keeping in mind that the less experienced umpires.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, additional apparel logos have also been approved by the CEC for the next 12 months. As of now, logos on chests are only allowed in ODIs and T20Is. 
&nbsp;

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday confirmed interim changes to its playing regulations, which includes a ban on the usage of saliva and scrapping of neutral umpires.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday confirmed interim changes to its playing regulations, which includes a ban on the usage of saliva and scrapping of neutral umpires. The ICC Chief Executive Committee (CEC) ratified the recommendations from the Anil Kumble-led Cricket Committee in a bid to protect the safety of players and officials when cricket resumes. Apart from the ban on usage of saliva, the ICC also allowed COVID-19 replacements as teams will now be allowed to substitute players displaying symptoms of COVID-19 during a Test match. The Match Referee will approve the nearest like-for-like replacement in like with the concussion substitution. ALSO READ: From confidentiality issue to fate of T20 World Cup: What to expect from the crucial ICC Board meeting COVID-19 Replacements: Teams will be allowed to replace players displaying symptoms of COVID-19 during a Test match. In line with concussion replacements, the Match Referee will approve the nearest like-for-like replacement. However, COVID-19 replacement won’t be applicable in ODI and T20I cricket. Players will not be permitted to use saliva on the ball and if a player mistakenly applied saliva then the umpires will show some leniency in the initial phase but subsequent instances will result in the team receiving an official warning. A total of two warnings are allowed per innings and will be followed by a five-run penalty to the batting side. The umpires will clean the ball before play resumes whenever saliva is applied to the ball. ALSO READ: Saliva ban: A fresh headache for swing bowlers Neutral match officials will be scrapped for all international formats owning to logistical challenges due to COVID-19 pandemic. The ICC will appoint officials from the ICC Elite Panel of Match Officials and International Panel of Match Officials. The CEC also announced an additional unsuccessful DRS for each team in each innings of the match keeping in mind that the less experienced umpires. Meanwhile, additional apparel logos have also been approved by the CEC for the next 12 months. As of now, logos on chests are only allowed in ODIs and T20Is.

From ban on saliva to COVID-19 substitution: ICC approves interim regulation changes as international cricket gears up for resumption

2018 ICC women's cricketer of the year Smriti Mandhana is all set to entertain her fans in a new avatar. Mandhana is teaming up with fellow India international Jemimah Rodrigues for a web series called double trouble. The Indian opener and T20I vice captain wants to jump out of a plane some day as well but at the moment is waiting for a chance to bat again as soon as the lockdown ends.

Mandhana: Women's Cricket Growing Massively | WION Sports Exclusive

Cricket's world body is investigating three former Sri Lankan players over alleged corruption, officials said Wednesday, in the latest scandal to hit the sport in the country.

Sri Lanka Cricket did not name the targets of the probe by the International Cricket Council Anti-Corruption Unit, but insisted no current national players were involved.

The board was responding to media reports on comments made by Sports Minister Dullas Alahapperuma on Tuesday.&nbsp;

The reports said Alahapperuma had hinted current players were being investigated by the ICC for match-fixing. &nbsp;

"What the honourable minister actually mentioned was about an investigation launched by the ICC Anti-Corruption Unit against three former Sri Lanka players and not the current national players," the board said in a statement.

The ICC said it would not comment on any active investigation.

Sri Lanka introduced tough penalties for match-fixing and tightened sports betting restrictions in November in a bid to stamp out graft that has tainted the country's cricket team.

Allegations of corruption included claims of match-fixing ahead of a 2018 Test against England.

Betting on sports events in Sri Lanka was already illegal, but the new rules ban Sri Lankans from gambling on overseas contests. They face up to 10 years in jail and fines of up to $555,000 for match-fixing.

The new law also bans people with family links to gambling businesses from sitting on cricket's governing body.

The provision was in part to target the former Sri Lanka Cricket president, Thilanga Sumathipala, who was an executive committee member even though his family owns a gambling business.

Sumathipala, a businessman and politician, has repeatedly denied involvement in the gambling side of the family business.&nbsp;

A former sports minister, Harin Fernando, had said cricket in Sri Lanka was riddled with graft "from top to bottom", and that the ICC considered Sri Lanka one of the world's most corrupt nations.

Former Sri Lankan fast bowler Dilhara Lokuhettige was suspended in 2018 for corruption linked to a limited-over league.

He was the third Sri Lankan charged under the ICC anti-corruption code, following action against former captain and ex-chief selector Sanath Jayasuriya, and former paceman Nuwan Zoysa.

Jayasuriya was found guilty of failing to cooperate with a match-fixing probe and was banned for two years. Zoysa was suspended for match-fixing.

Cricket's world body is investigating three former Sri Lankan players over alleged corruption, officials said Wednesday, in the latest scandal to hit the sport in the country.

Cricket's world body is investigating three former Sri Lankan players over alleged corruption, officials said Wednesday, in the latest scandal to hit the sport in the country. Sri Lanka Cricket did not name the targets of the probe by the International Cricket Council Anti-Corruption Unit, but insisted no current national players were involved. The board was responding to media reports on comments made by Sports Minister Dullas Alahapperuma on Tuesday. The reports said Alahapperuma had hinted current players were being investigated by the ICC for match-fixing. "What the honourable minister actually mentioned was about an investigation launched by the ICC Anti-Corruption Unit against three former Sri Lanka players and not the current national players," the board said in a statement. The ICC said it would not comment on any active investigation. Sri Lanka introduced tough penalties for match-fixing and tightened sports betting restrictions in November in a bid to stamp out graft that has tainted the country's cricket team. Allegations of corruption included claims of match-fixing ahead of a 2018 Test against England. Betting on sports events in Sri Lanka was already illegal, but the new rules ban Sri Lankans from gambling on overseas contests. They face up to 10 years in jail and fines of up to $555,000 for match-fixing. The new law also bans people with family links to gambling businesses from sitting on cricket's governing body. The provision was in part to target the former Sri Lanka Cricket president, Thilanga Sumathipala, who was an executive committee member even though his family owns a gambling business. Sumathipala, a businessman and politician, has repeatedly denied involvement in the gambling side of the family business. A former sports minister, Harin Fernando, had said cricket in Sri Lanka was riddled with graft "from top to bottom", and that the ICC considered Sri Lanka one of the world's most corrupt nations. Former Sri Lankan fast bowler Dilhara Lokuhettige was suspended in 2018 for corruption linked to a limited-over league. He was the third Sri Lankan charged under the ICC anti-corruption code, following action against former captain and ex-chief selector Sanath Jayasuriya, and former paceman Nuwan Zoysa. Jayasuriya was found guilty of failing to cooperate with a match-fixing probe and was banned for two years. Zoysa was suspended for match-fixing.

Sri Lanka Cricket says 3 former players in ICC graft probe

India's decision exempt tax for future global cricketing events has created discord between the ICC and the BCCI as the Indian cricket board gears up to host 2021 T20 World Cup and 50-over World Cup in 2023.

According to an ICC spokesman, both governing bodies are trying to figure out a solution. He said: "The ICC and BCCI have been working in partnership to address the issue of tax exemptions for ICC events that is a requirement of the host agreement signed by all parties at the beginning of the cycle in 2015 and this work is ongoing."

"There are certain timelines within the agreements that we collectively work towards to ensure we can deliver successful world-class events and continue to invest in the sport of cricket."

"In addition to this the ICC Board agreed to clear timelines for the resolution of the tax issues which we are guided by," the spokesperson added.

ICC chairman and chief executive have been in touch with BCCI &nbsp;President Sourav Ganguly and secretary Jay Shah, but a mail by ICC’s legal head Jonathan Hall has upset the BCCI.&nbsp;

According to Hall's mail, BCCI is not adhering to timelines on committing to tax exemptions as per the agreement.

“The tax structure is not decided by the BCCI but by the Indian government. It is our government that decides whether the exemption will be possible or not. For the record, Formula One also wasn’t given tax exemption,” a senior BCCI official told PTI.

Usually, ICC looks for an exemption on the excide duties imposed on importing TV production equipment and ticketing. But the sports channel that has rights for India's home matches is also set up in India.&nbsp;

“We understand that as the nomination process of new ICC chairman starts on Tuesday, suddenly there has been a flurry of communication. You can rest assured that T20 World Cup in 2021 and 2023 ODI World Cup is going nowhere. As far as the timeline is concerned, we had told ICC that unless lockdown is lifted, we can’t have discussions with government officials,” the influential member told PTI.

The tax issue also finds a mention in CoA document dated back to July 6, 2019, during when BCCI's legal team were in touch with a British law firm as legal cases related to ICC falls under the UK law.

India's decision exempt tax for future global cricketing events has created discord between the ICC and the BCCI as the Indian cricket board gears up to host 2021 T20 World Cup and 50-over World Cup in 2023.

India's decision exempt tax for future global cricketing events has created discord between the ICC and the BCCI as the Indian cricket board gears up to host 2021 T20 World Cup and 50-over World Cup in 2023. According to an ICC spokesman, both governing bodies are trying to figure out a solution. He said: "The ICC and BCCI have been working in partnership to address the issue of tax exemptions for ICC events that is a requirement of the host agreement signed by all parties at the beginning of the cycle in 2015 and this work is ongoing." "There are certain timelines within the agreements that we collectively work towards to ensure we can deliver successful world-class events and continue to invest in the sport of cricket." "In addition to this the ICC Board agreed to clear timelines for the resolution of the tax issues which we are guided by," the spokesperson added. ICC chairman and chief executive have been in touch with BCCI President Sourav Ganguly and secretary Jay Shah, but a mail by ICC’s legal head Jonathan Hall has upset the BCCI. According to Hall's mail, BCCI is not adhering to timelines on committing to tax exemptions as per the agreement. “The tax structure is not decided by the BCCI but by the Indian government. It is our government that decides whether the exemption will be possible or not. For the record, Formula One also wasn’t given tax exemption,” a senior BCCI official told PTI. Usually, ICC looks for an exemption on the excide duties imposed on importing TV production equipment and ticketing. But the sports channel that has rights for India's home matches is also set up in India. “We understand that as the nomination process of new ICC chairman starts on Tuesday, suddenly there has been a flurry of communication. You can rest assured that T20 World Cup in 2021 and 2023 ODI World Cup is going nowhere. As far as the timeline is concerned, we had told ICC that unless lockdown is lifted, we can’t have discussions with government officials,” the influential member told PTI. The tax issue also finds a mention in CoA document dated back to July 6, 2019, during when BCCI's legal team were in touch with a British law firm as legal cases related to ICC falls under the UK law.

BCCI vs ICC, tax exemptions create discord between the cricketing heavyweights

The ICC on Friday recommended appointing Chief Medical Officers and 14-day pre-match isolation training camps in its radical guidelines for resumption of international cricket after the novel coronavirus hiatus.

The International Cricket Council issued comprehensive guidelines aimed at resumption of cricket around the world while at the same time maintaining the highest safety protocols.

"Consider appointing a Chief Medical Officer and/or Biosafety Official who will be responsible for implementing government regulations and the biosafety plan to resume training and competition," the ICC said in one of the pointers.

Another point was, "Consider the need for a pre-match isolation training camp with health, temperature checks and CV-19 testing - e.G. At least 14 days prior to travel to ensure the team is CV-19 free."

The sport's governing body also recommended developing an appropriate testing plan during training and competition. 
All cricket activities are shut since the pandemic struck the world. Even the upcoming T20 World Cup is under threat due to the deadly disease.

The ICC on Friday recommended appointing Chief Medical Officers and 14-day pre-match isolation training camps in its radical guidelines for resumption of international cricket after the novel coronavirus hiatus.

The ICC on Friday recommended appointing Chief Medical Officers and 14-day pre-match isolation training camps in its radical guidelines for resumption of international cricket after the novel coronavirus hiatus. The International Cricket Council issued comprehensive guidelines aimed at resumption of cricket around the world while at the same time maintaining the highest safety protocols. "Consider appointing a Chief Medical Officer and/or Biosafety Official who will be responsible for implementing government regulations and the biosafety plan to resume training and competition," the ICC said in one of the pointers. Another point was, "Consider the need for a pre-match isolation training camp with health, temperature checks and CV-19 testing - e.G. At least 14 days prior to travel to ensure the team is CV-19 free." The sport's governing body also recommended developing an appropriate testing plan during training and competition. All cricket activities are shut since the pandemic struck the world. Even the upcoming T20 World Cup is under threat due to the deadly disease.

ICC recommends 14-day isolation training camps, appointment of CMOs in guidelines

Cricket Australia is set to seek International Cricket Council’s (ICC) permission to use disinfectants of match balls in a bid to reduce the health risk to players as the gentlemen’s game prepares for life post-COVID-19 pandemic.

Cricket Australia’s Sports Science and Sports Medicine Manager Alex Koountouris has said that an overall set of guidelines have been prepared for players to return safely to training, however, competitive cricket is expected to be played only later in the year.

Disinfectants were used on match balls in German Bundesliga to limit the health risk of players during football matches in the country. However, football and cricket are complete opposite when it comes to usage of the ball.

With the ICC’s Cricket Committee recommending a ban on saliva for the players to shine the ball, Kountouris said that testing will soon start on whether disinfecting the ball could minimize health risk.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/confident-that-ipl-will-happen-this-year-bcci-working-hard-to-find-solution-rajasthan-royals-coo-jake-mccrum-299874" hreflang="en">'Confident that IPL will happen this year, BCCI working hard to find solution': Rajasthan Royals COO Jake McCrum</a>

"Disinfecting the ball is a consideration," Koumtoris was quoted as saying by cricket.com.au.

...we'd have to speak to the ICC and get permission, there's a lot of things (to consider). And whether it's effective or not. The ball being leather, it's harder to disinfect because it's got little nooks and crevasses.

"...we don't know how infected the ball is going to get and we don't know if it's going to be allowed. But it's absolutely a consideration. Everything is on the table at the moment, everything is being considered."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/denied-contracts-amir-hasan-ali-quit-whatsapp-group-formed-by-coach-cum-selector-misbah-299867" hreflang="en">Denied contracts, Amir, Hasan Ali quit WhatsApp group formed by coach-cum-selector Misbah</a>

Cricket Australia’s Sports Science and Sports Medicine Manager further said that with England likely to play cricket before Australia, they can check the results there before implementing them in Australia.&nbsp;

"From an Australian cricket perspective, other countries are probably going to play before us," he said.

"We've got a chance to work with the ICC and other countries to see what they come up with and how it works for them. We'll obviously take whatever steps we need to do to make sure we lower the risk."

Cricket Australia is set to seek International Cricket Council’s (ICC) permission to use disinfectants of match balls in a bid to reduce the health risk to players as the gentlemen’s game prepares for life post-COVID-19 pandemic.

Cricket Australia is set to seek International Cricket Council’s (ICC) permission to use disinfectants of match balls in a bid to reduce the health risk to players as the gentlemen’s game prepares for life post-COVID-19 pandemic. Cricket Australia’s Sports Science and Sports Medicine Manager Alex Koountouris has said that an overall set of guidelines have been prepared for players to return safely to training, however, competitive cricket is expected to be played only later in the year. Disinfectants were used on match balls in German Bundesliga to limit the health risk of players during football matches in the country. However, football and cricket are complete opposite when it comes to usage of the ball. With the ICC’s Cricket Committee recommending a ban on saliva for the players to shine the ball, Kountouris said that testing will soon start on whether disinfecting the ball could minimize health risk. ALSO READ: 'Confident that IPL will happen this year, BCCI working hard to find solution': Rajasthan Royals COO Jake McCrum "Disinfecting the ball is a consideration," Koumtoris was quoted as saying by cricket.com.au. ...we'd have to speak to the ICC and get permission, there's a lot of things (to consider). And whether it's effective or not. The ball being leather, it's harder to disinfect because it's got little nooks and crevasses. "...we don't know how infected the ball is going to get and we don't know if it's going to be allowed. But it's absolutely a consideration. Everything is on the table at the moment, everything is being considered." ALSO READ: Denied contracts, Amir, Hasan Ali quit WhatsApp group formed by coach-cum-selector Misbah Cricket Australia’s Sports Science and Sports Medicine Manager further said that with England likely to play cricket before Australia, they can check the results there before implementing them in Australia. "From an Australian cricket perspective, other countries are probably going to play before us," he said. "We've got a chance to work with the ICC and other countries to see what they come up with and how it works for them. We'll obviously take whatever steps we need to do to make sure we lower the risk."

The New norm? Cricket Australia set to seek ICC's permission to use disinfectants on match balls

The Cricket Committee of the International Cricket Council (ICC) has recommended a number of tweaks to the gentlemen’s game as preventive measures to curb the spread of the dreaded COVID-19 whenever the live action resumes.&nbsp;

The Cricket Committee, led by former India captain Anil Kumble, has recommended a ban on the usage of saliva to shine the ball. However, the players would be allowed to use sweat to shine the ball as the members saw no health hazard as it is not a virus transmitter, as per medical advice.&nbsp;

The Kumble-led Cricket Committee further recommended local umpires and match referees for international matches as the Decision Review System (DRS) is there to help them out. This step will allow fewer members travelling for a match.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sports-ministry-gives-go-ahead-to-resumption-of-training-as-per-mha-guidelines-299488" hreflang="en">Sports Ministry gives go ahead to resumption of training as per MHA guidelines</a>

“We are living through extraordinary times and the recommendations the Committee have made today are interim measures to enable us to safely resume cricket in a way that preserves the essence of our game whilst protecting everyone involved,” ICC Cricket Committee chairman Anil Kumble said in a statement.

Only two DRS are available to each team per innings and the committee has recommended it to be increased to three.&nbsp;

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"The ICC Cricket Committee heard from the Chair of the ICC Medical Advisory Committee Dr Peter Harcourt regarding the elevated risk of the transmission of the virus through saliva, and unanimously agreed to recommend that the use of saliva to polish the ball be prohibited," the ICC said in the release.

"... (It) saw no need to prohibit the use of sweat to polish the ball while recommending that enhanced hygiene measures are implemented on and around the playing field."

The use of saliva to shine the ball is for the bowlers to swing the ball, especially in the longest format of the game. But now the usage of saliva is being seen as a health risk.&nbsp;

"Given the challenges of international travel with borders being closed, limited commercial flights and mandatory quarantine periods, the Committee recommended that local match officials be appointed in the short-term," the governing body stated in its release.

The Cricket Committee of the International Cricket Council (ICC) has recommended a number of tweaks to the gentlemen’s game as preventive measures to curb the spread of the dreaded COVID-19 whenever the live action resumes.

The Cricket Committee of the International Cricket Council (ICC) has recommended a number of tweaks to the gentlemen’s game as preventive measures to curb the spread of the dreaded COVID-19 whenever the live action resumes. The Cricket Committee, led by former India captain Anil Kumble, has recommended a ban on the usage of saliva to shine the ball. However, the players would be allowed to use sweat to shine the ball as the members saw no health hazard as it is not a virus transmitter, as per medical advice. The Kumble-led Cricket Committee further recommended local umpires and match referees for international matches as the Decision Review System (DRS) is there to help them out. This step will allow fewer members travelling for a match. ALSO READ: Sports Ministry gives go ahead to resumption of training as per MHA guidelines “We are living through extraordinary times and the recommendations the Committee have made today are interim measures to enable us to safely resume cricket in a way that preserves the essence of our game whilst protecting everyone involved,” ICC Cricket Committee chairman Anil Kumble said in a statement. Only two DRS are available to each team per innings and the committee has recommended it to be increased to three. ALSO READ: IPL hopes rise as Indian government allows re-opening of stadiums "The ICC Cricket Committee heard from the Chair of the ICC Medical Advisory Committee Dr Peter Harcourt regarding the elevated risk of the transmission of the virus through saliva, and unanimously agreed to recommend that the use of saliva to polish the ball be prohibited," the ICC said in the release. "... (It) saw no need to prohibit the use of sweat to polish the ball while recommending that enhanced hygiene measures are implemented on and around the playing field." The use of saliva to shine the ball is for the bowlers to swing the ball, especially in the longest format of the game. But now the usage of saliva is being seen as a health risk. "Given the challenges of international travel with borders being closed, limited commercial flights and mandatory quarantine periods, the Committee recommended that local match officials be appointed in the short-term," the governing body stated in its release.

Anil Kumble-led ICC Cricket Committee recommends ban on saliva due to COVID-19 pandemic

The option of shifting the upcoming T20 World Cup to 2022 is expected to be put on the table when the ICC Board meets on May 28, a member of world governing body's influential Board told PTI on Friday.

A cloud of uncertainty hangs over the T20 World Cup in the wake of coronavirus pandemic and shifting it may find favours with Cricket Australia, feels the Board member.

The ICC flagship event is scheduled in Australia from October 18 to November 15.

The ICC Board Meeting will be preceded by the Cricket Committee meeting to discuss playing conditions including applying sweat and saliva on the ball.

It is expected that ICC's Events Committee headed by Chris Tetley will present multiple options.

"We are expecting three options from the ICC Events Committee. First option is having World T20 as per schedule with 14-day quarantine with crowd being allowed. The back-up for this option could be tournament in-front of empty stadium. The third option could be shifting the tournament to 2022," a Board member privy to development told PTI on conditions of anonymity.

The Board meeting will also discuss two-month extension for Chairman Shashank Manohar but primarily the focus will be on deciding the fate of T20 World Cup.

Of late, Cricket Australia and their top players including present and former, have been aggressively campaigning for the Test Series against India to go as scheduled in November-December.

The series is crucial to Cricket Australia's financial health.

"CA wouldn't be too unhappy if the World T20 is shifted to 2022. At the end of the day, ICC is made up of members. If members decide that bilateral series are more important, you can't discount that.

"Also ICC might find its cash flow being hampered but it's a short-term problem. If the tournament happens in 2022, the parent body doesn't lose anything because it's deferment not postponement," the board member said.

The deferment will also mean that the cash-rich Indian Premier League, which is a parallel industry in itself, will get the much-needed window if the COVID-19 pandemic is under control by then. The Indian team can travel to Australia after the IPL.

The Board member also cited a few problems which may lead to deferment of T20 World Cup.

"The costs of quarantine arrangements for 16 teams with support staff plus TV crew will be huge. Add to that if in some of the countries, normalcy doesn't return, whether travelling will be safe by then," he added.

"So it can't be postponed by a few months, say February-March, 2021. It's not a great idea as we have Women's ODI World Cup and the two ICC events should not clash. The Women's World Cup is a much safer bet, there will only be eight teams."&nbsp;

The option of shifting the upcoming T20 World Cup to 2022 is expected to be put on the table when the ICC Board meets on May 28, a member of world governing body's influential Board told PTI on Friday.

The option of shifting the upcoming T20 World Cup to 2022 is expected to be put on the table when the ICC Board meets on May 28, a member of world governing body's influential Board told PTI on Friday. A cloud of uncertainty hangs over the T20 World Cup in the wake of coronavirus pandemic and shifting it may find favours with Cricket Australia, feels the Board member. The ICC flagship event is scheduled in Australia from October 18 to November 15. The ICC Board Meeting will be preceded by the Cricket Committee meeting to discuss playing conditions including applying sweat and saliva on the ball. It is expected that ICC's Events Committee headed by Chris Tetley will present multiple options. "We are expecting three options from the ICC Events Committee. First option is having World T20 as per schedule with 14-day quarantine with crowd being allowed. The back-up for this option could be tournament in-front of empty stadium. The third option could be shifting the tournament to 2022," a Board member privy to development told PTI on conditions of anonymity. The Board meeting will also discuss two-month extension for Chairman Shashank Manohar but primarily the focus will be on deciding the fate of T20 World Cup. Of late, Cricket Australia and their top players including present and former, have been aggressively campaigning for the Test Series against India to go as scheduled in November-December. The series is crucial to Cricket Australia's financial health. "CA wouldn't be too unhappy if the World T20 is shifted to 2022. At the end of the day, ICC is made up of members. If members decide that bilateral series are more important, you can't discount that. "Also ICC might find its cash flow being hampered but it's a short-term problem. If the tournament happens in 2022, the parent body doesn't lose anything because it's deferment not postponement," the board member said. The deferment will also mean that the cash-rich Indian Premier League, which is a parallel industry in itself, will get the much-needed window if the COVID-19 pandemic is under control by then. The Indian team can travel to Australia after the IPL. The Board member also cited a few problems which may lead to deferment of T20 World Cup. "The costs of quarantine arrangements for 16 teams with support staff plus TV crew will be huge. Add to that if in some of the countries, normalcy doesn't return, whether travelling will be safe by then," he added. "So it can't be postponed by a few months, say February-March, 2021. It's not a great idea as we have Women's ODI World Cup and the two ICC events should not clash. The Women's World Cup is a much safer bet, there will only be eight teams."

ICC Board members may discuss shifting T20 World Cup to 2022

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.&nbsp;

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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;

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.

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“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.&nbsp;

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

With the sporting calendar left shattered due to COVID-19 pandemic, all eyes are on tournaments such as the Asia Cup and ICC T20 World Cup, which are yet to be postponed or cancelled. While the International Cricket Council (ICC) are still waiting to take a call on the biggest cricketing event of the year – the ICC T20 World Cup – there has been some progress in regards to the bidding process to host the ICC events for the proposed eight-year cycle of 2023-31.

Earlier, ICC had sent the ‘expression of interest’ communication to all members’ boards and in response to that, the world cricket body has received as many as 93 offers for 28 events, from 18 boards, to be staged in the proposed cycle of 2023-31.&nbsp;

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“Three member boards did not get into specifics of any event. A total of 18 boards responded,” a source was quoted as saying by a leading daily.

There was a lot of debate surrounding ICC’s proposal to schedule on world event every year in the next eight-year cycle. There is a big dispute over the proposal to hold a 10-nation T20 Champions Cup in 2024 and 2028.

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The hectic scheduling by ICC could mean that bigger boards might suffer in their bilateral cricket which fetches them hefty pay-cheques.&nbsp;

Apart from men’s events, ICC is also looking for bidders for the eight women’s events and the World Test Championships finals in every two years as well as the ICC Under-19 World Cups.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

With the sporting calendar left shattered due to COVID-19 pandemic, all eyes are on tournaments such as the Asia Cup and ICC T20 World Cup, which are yet to be postponed or cancelled.

With the sporting calendar left shattered due to COVID-19 pandemic, all eyes are on tournaments such as the Asia Cup and ICC T20 World Cup, which are yet to be postponed or cancelled. While the International Cricket Council (ICC) are still waiting to take a call on the biggest cricketing event of the year – the ICC T20 World Cup – there has been some progress in regards to the bidding process to host the ICC events for the proposed eight-year cycle of 2023-31. Earlier, ICC had sent the ‘expression of interest’ communication to all members’ boards and in response to that, the world cricket body has received as many as 93 offers for 28 events, from 18 boards, to be staged in the proposed cycle of 2023-31. ALSO READ: 'Sit back and relax at home' - Kapil Dev dismisses Shoaib Akhtar’s proposal of India-Pakistan charity series to fight against COVID-19 “Three member boards did not get into specifics of any event. A total of 18 boards responded,” a source was quoted as saying by a leading daily. There was a lot of debate surrounding ICC’s proposal to schedule on world event every year in the next eight-year cycle. There is a big dispute over the proposal to hold a 10-nation T20 Champions Cup in 2024 and 2028. ALSO READ: Another one bites the dust as Australia vs Bangladesh Test series postponed due to COVID-19 pandemic The hectic scheduling by ICC could mean that bigger boards might suffer in their bilateral cricket which fetches them hefty pay-cheques. Apart from men’s events, ICC is also looking for bidders for the eight women’s events and the World Test Championships finals in every two years as well as the ICC Under-19 World Cups.

ICC receives 93 offers for 28 events for the proposed 2023-31 cycle

The all-powerful ICC Board on Friday discussed various contingency plans for its flagship tournaments, including World T20 and World Test Championship in the wake of Covid-19 pandemic that has brought cricket to a standstill. BCCI president Sourav Ganguly was India’s representative when it was being speculated that a former Board president would attend the meeting, held via video conference.

The sporting world has been under complete lockdown and several bilateral Test series under World Test Championship also run the risk of being cancelled. “The impact of the pandemic on the sport globally was discussed,” an ICC release stated.

ICC Chief Executive Manu Sawhney said, “We continue to undertake a comprehensive business continuity and contingency planning exercise which will allow us to adapt to the rapidly evolving world in which we find ourselves.” While no decisions were taken as any shifting of tournament or change of dates involves gigantic logistical exercise which needs meticulous planning at every stage.

“The ICC management will continue our contingency planning around ICC events and will also work with Members to explore all options available to us based on a range of scenarios connected to the pandemic.” When a Board member was asked what happens if England, which is due to host Pakistan and West Indies at home is unable to do so, he said the matter of points allocation will be referred to the technical committee.

“It can’t happen unless an amicable solution is reached. You might have India playing six series and perched at top and England get to play three due to lockdown and tight FTP schedule. You need a solution to distribution of points and matter should be referred to the technical committee,” a representative of a member told PTI on conditions of anonymity.

A couple of Board members felt that World T20 in Australia is not under threat as October is still some time away. “If things are under control from June, we can then work on a specific contingency plan. Right now, ICC would be working on various plans and would come up with their proposals in course of time,” the senior official said.

The Board also approved th audited financial statements for 2019 and the final accounts for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2019 and the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Qualifier 2019. The local organizing committee of Women’s World T20 was thanked for conducting a successful tournament.

The all-powerful ICC Board on Friday discussed various contingency plans for its flagship tournaments, including World T20 and World Test Championship in the wake of Covid-19 pandemic that has brought cricket to a standstill.

The all-powerful ICC Board on Friday discussed various contingency plans for its flagship tournaments, including World T20 and World Test Championship in the wake of Covid-19 pandemic that has brought cricket to a standstill. BCCI president Sourav Ganguly was India’s representative when it was being speculated that a former Board president would attend the meeting, held via video conference. The sporting world has been under complete lockdown and several bilateral Test series under World Test Championship also run the risk of being cancelled. “The impact of the pandemic on the sport globally was discussed,” an ICC release stated. ICC Chief Executive Manu Sawhney said, “We continue to undertake a comprehensive business continuity and contingency planning exercise which will allow us to adapt to the rapidly evolving world in which we find ourselves.” While no decisions were taken as any shifting of tournament or change of dates involves gigantic logistical exercise which needs meticulous planning at every stage. “The ICC management will continue our contingency planning around ICC events and will also work with Members to explore all options available to us based on a range of scenarios connected to the pandemic.” When a Board member was asked what happens if England, which is due to host Pakistan and West Indies at home is unable to do so, he said the matter of points allocation will be referred to the technical committee. “It can’t happen unless an amicable solution is reached. You might have India playing six series and perched at top and England get to play three due to lockdown and tight FTP schedule. You need a solution to distribution of points and matter should be referred to the technical committee,” a representative of a member told PTI on conditions of anonymity. A couple of Board members felt that World T20 in Australia is not under threat as October is still some time away. “If things are under control from June, we can then work on a specific contingency plan. Right now, ICC would be working on various plans and would come up with their proposals in course of time,” the senior official said. The Board also approved th audited financial statements for 2019 and the final accounts for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2019 and the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Qualifier 2019. The local organizing committee of Women’s World T20 was thanked for conducting a successful tournament.

ICC Board discusses contingency plan, Sourav Ganguly represented BCCI

The ICC Board members are set to meet via video conference on Friday in a bid to discuss plans for its numerous tournaments in the wake of the novel coronavirus pandemic. The COVID-19 outbreak has not only left the entire sporting calendar shattered but has also brought almost the entire world to a standstill.&nbsp;

While a PTI reports states that a couple of ICC Board members have confirmed that no concrete decisions are expected on Friday, the meeting is important to discuss the contingency plans amid the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

ICC’s biggest tournament in the year 2020 is the Men’s T20 World Cup which is scheduled to be held in October-November in Australia. Apart from the T20 World Cup, the points system of ICC World Test Championship will also be on the agenda as several bilateral series has already been hit by the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Right now, the situation is such that no decision can be taken as no one knows when normalcy returns. Obviously the members will give a lowdown of the situation in their respective countries.

"But we need to be ready with plans if this lockdown continues for two more months. The complete FTP will be topsy turvy," an official of a member nation told PTI.

The England versus Sri Lanka Test series was postponed amid the COVID-19 outbreak and the official said that points allocation of Test Championship matches will be discussed in case of cancelled series.

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"The England versus Sri Lanka series got postponed but where will it be slotted considering the FTP calendar is choc-a-bloc. It's not one series that will be affected but a few more which are lined up," he said.

Moreover, under the ICC World Test Champions, England are scheduled to host West Indies and Pakistan in June and July whereas New Zealand will head to Bangladesh in August. India’s next Test series is against Australia in November and in case all the series gets cancelled then how will the ICC distribute the points? What happens to the FTP?

"So like what could be the ideal points distribution system. Whether giving 60 points each to both teams will be a fair deal is something that members need to discuss," he added.

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"That is an extreme situation which we are not even thinking at the moment. But it is a crisis situation and no harm if options are discussed," another board member said.

From BCCI, president Sourav Ganguly is set to be the board representative and in case, Ganguly is unable to attend the meet then secretary Jay Shah will take his place.

The ICC Board members are set to meet via video conference on Friday in a bid to discuss plans for its numerous tournaments in the wake of the novel coronavirus pandemic.

The ICC Board members are set to meet via video conference on Friday in a bid to discuss plans for its numerous tournaments in the wake of the novel coronavirus pandemic. The COVID-19 outbreak has not only left the entire sporting calendar shattered but has also brought almost the entire world to a standstill. While a PTI reports states that a couple of ICC Board members have confirmed that no concrete decisions are expected on Friday, the meeting is important to discuss the contingency plans amid the COVID-19 pandemic. ICC’s biggest tournament in the year 2020 is the Men’s T20 World Cup which is scheduled to be held in October-November in Australia. Apart from the T20 World Cup, the points system of ICC World Test Championship will also be on the agenda as several bilateral series has already been hit by the COVID-19 pandemic. "Right now, the situation is such that no decision can be taken as no one knows when normalcy returns. Obviously the members will give a lowdown of the situation in their respective countries. "But we need to be ready with plans if this lockdown continues for two more months. The complete FTP will be topsy turvy," an official of a member nation told PTI. The England versus Sri Lanka Test series was postponed amid the COVID-19 outbreak and the official said that points allocation of Test Championship matches will be discussed in case of cancelled series. ALSO READ: MS Dhoni donates to help 100 poor families in Pune during COVID-19 pandemic "The England versus Sri Lanka series got postponed but where will it be slotted considering the FTP calendar is choc-a-bloc. It's not one series that will be affected but a few more which are lined up," he said. Moreover, under the ICC World Test Champions, England are scheduled to host West Indies and Pakistan in June and July whereas New Zealand will head to Bangladesh in August. India’s next Test series is against Australia in November and in case all the series gets cancelled then how will the ICC distribute the points? What happens to the FTP? "So like what could be the ideal points distribution system. Whether giving 60 points each to both teams will be a fair deal is something that members need to discuss," he added. ALSO READ: ICC shuts down World Cup cricket qualifiers till July "That is an extreme situation which we are not even thinking at the moment. But it is a crisis situation and no harm if options are discussed," another board member said. From BCCI, president Sourav Ganguly is set to be the board representative and in case, Ganguly is unable to attend the meet then secretary Jay Shah will take his place.

ICC Board set to discuss future plans, WTC points distribution for postponed games

Cricket's governing body postponed a swathe of qualifiers for next year's Twenty20 World Cup and the 2023 50-over World Cup on Thursday as the coronavirus pandemic continues to wreak havoc on international sport.

All qualifiers scheduled to take place before July in Kuwait, South Africa, Namibia, Spain, Papua New Guinea, Belgium, Malaysia and Finland are affected, a statement said.

"The decision has been taken in conjunction with members and in line with the relevant government and public health authority advice," the International Cricket Council said.

India will host the T20 World Cup, a revamped version of the former Champions Trophy, in October-November of 2021. It is not to be confused with this year's T20 World Cup in Australia.&nbsp;

India will also hold the 50-over World Cup in 2023.

This year's Indian Premier League, the world's richest cricket league, is one of the many sports events worldwide to be postponed including the Tokyo Olympics, which have been delayed until next year.

The ICC said this year's remaining qualifiers are being "continually monitored".

Cricket's governing body postponed a swathe of qualifiers for next year's Twenty20 World Cup and the 2023 50-over World Cup on Thursday as the coronavirus pandemic continues to wreak havoc on international sport.

Cricket's governing body postponed a swathe of qualifiers for next year's Twenty20 World Cup and the 2023 50-over World Cup on Thursday as the coronavirus pandemic continues to wreak havoc on international sport. All qualifiers scheduled to take place before July in Kuwait, South Africa, Namibia, Spain, Papua New Guinea, Belgium, Malaysia and Finland are affected, a statement said. "The decision has been taken in conjunction with members and in line with the relevant government and public health authority advice," the International Cricket Council said. India will host the T20 World Cup, a revamped version of the former Champions Trophy, in October-November of 2021. It is not to be confused with this year's T20 World Cup in Australia. India will also hold the 50-over World Cup in 2023. This year's Indian Premier League, the world's richest cricket league, is one of the many sports events worldwide to be postponed including the Tokyo Olympics, which have been delayed until next year. The ICC said this year's remaining qualifiers are being "continually monitored".

ICC shuts down World Cup cricket qualifiers till July

All the major sporting tournaments and sporting events have been cancelled or postponed, including the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic. While all eyes are on the future Indian Premier League (IPL) and ICC T20 World Cup 2020, another major cricketing event that has been hit by the novel coronavirus is the ICC World Test Championship.&nbsp;

Unlike other tournaments, the ICC World Test Championship is to be played in two years with every Test-playing nation playing home and away series as per the schedule. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has left everything shattered. While there has been no confirmation on how the ICC is planning to conduct the event now, an ICC spokesperson has said that the apex cricketing body is ‘considering the options available’ relating to the World Test Championship while adding ‘no decisions have been taken’ so far.&nbsp;

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"At present, the ICC is considering the options available to us regarding the World Test Championship and no decisions have been taken," the ICC spokesperson was quoted as saying by an Australian daily.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, there have been doubts over the Asia Cup 2020, which is scheduled to be held in Pakistan – as of now – in the month of September. While it is impossible for India to participate in the event given it is being held in Pakistan, an ACC meeting was scheduled to decide a neutral venue for the event.

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However, with the COVID-19 spreading like a wildfire, the meeting has been postponed and no final call has been taken in relation to the schedule and venue for the tournament. The likes of India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan and Bangladesh participate&nbsp;in the Asia Cup.

Even the BCCI has been seeming less optimistic about conducting the IPL with India going under lockdown for 21 days to curb the spread of COVID-19. Earlier, BCCI president Sourav Ganguly had ruled out a postponed version of IPL 2020.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

All the major sporting tournaments and sporting events have been cancelled or postponed, including the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic. While all eyes are on the future Indian Premier League (IPL) and ICC T20 World Cup 2020, another major cricketing event that has been hit by the novel coronavirus is the ICC World Test Championship.

All the major sporting tournaments and sporting events have been cancelled or postponed, including the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic. While all eyes are on the future Indian Premier League (IPL) and ICC T20 World Cup 2020, another major cricketing event that has been hit by the novel coronavirus is the ICC World Test Championship. Unlike other tournaments, the ICC World Test Championship is to be played in two years with every Test-playing nation playing home and away series as per the schedule. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has left everything shattered. While there has been no confirmation on how the ICC is planning to conduct the event now, an ICC spokesperson has said that the apex cricketing body is ‘considering the options available’ relating to the World Test Championship while adding ‘no decisions have been taken’ so far. ALSO READ: Jos Buttler hoping for shortened IPL in wake of COVID-19 pandemic "At present, the ICC is considering the options available to us regarding the World Test Championship and no decisions have been taken," the ICC spokesperson was quoted as saying by an Australian daily. Meanwhile, there have been doubts over the Asia Cup 2020, which is scheduled to be held in Pakistan – as of now – in the month of September. While it is impossible for India to participate in the event given it is being held in Pakistan, an ACC meeting was scheduled to decide a neutral venue for the event. ALSO READ: Mithali Raj wants women's IPL next year, says BCCI shouldn't wait forever However, with the COVID-19 spreading like a wildfire, the meeting has been postponed and no final call has been taken in relation to the schedule and venue for the tournament. The likes of India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan and Bangladesh participate in the Asia Cup. Even the BCCI has been seeming less optimistic about conducting the IPL with India going under lockdown for 21 days to curb the spread of COVID-19. Earlier, BCCI president Sourav Ganguly had ruled out a postponed version of IPL 2020.

'It is considering...' - ICC spokesperson reveals fate of World Test Championship

With the novel coronavirus taking the entire world under its dreaded wings, the sporting calendar has been left completely shattered with a number of high-profile tournaments and events getting cancelled or postponed due to COVID19 pandemic. While tournaments like IPL has been already suspended until April 15 and a final call is expected soon, dark clouds are hovering over major events like the Olympics and ICC T20 World Cup.&nbsp;

As the dreaded COVID-19 continues to spread like wildfire, the International Cricket Council (ICC) is expected to conduct preliminary discussions on the fate of the ICC T20 World Cup on March 29, according to reports. An 18-member board of directors including heads of 12 Test playing nations are set to hold discussions surrounding T20 World Cup 2020 on March 29. &nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-cancels-con-call-with-franchise-owners-as-fate-of-ipl-2020-hangs-by-thin-thread-due-to-covid-19-pandemic-288198">BCCI cancels con-call with franchise owners as fate of IPL 2020 hangs by thin thread due to COVID-19 pandemic</a>

The showpiece event is scheduled to kickstart in October 2020 and is set to be hosted by Australia. However, with major tournaments getting cancelled amid the coronavirus pandemic, all eyes have shifted towards the World Cup in the shortest format of the game.

Interestingly, there’s another T20 World Cup scheduled in 2021 which will be hosted by India, hence, it will be interesting to see who backs out and whether one of the events get affected to not.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/have-the-summer-olympics-ever-been-cancelled-a-look-back-at-history-as-dark-clouds-hover-over-2020-tokyo-games-288231">Have the Summer Olympics ever been cancelled? A look back at history as dark clouds hover over 2020 Tokyo Games</a>

The previous edition of the ICC T20 World Cup was hosted by India in 2016 where West Indies defeated England in the humdinger of a final. Carlos Brathwaite had come out as the hero for the Windies after smashing four sixes off Ben Stokes in the final over to help the Men in Maroon lift the coveted trophy. 
<o:p></o:p>

With the novel coronavirus taking the entire world under its dreaded wings, the sporting calendar has been left completely shattered with a number of high-profile tournaments and events getting cancelled or postponed due to COVID19 pandemic.

With the novel coronavirus taking the entire world under its dreaded wings, the sporting calendar has been left completely shattered with a number of high-profile tournaments and events getting cancelled or postponed due to COVID19 pandemic. While tournaments like IPL has been already suspended until April 15 and a final call is expected soon, dark clouds are hovering over major events like the Olympics and ICC T20 World Cup. As the dreaded COVID-19 continues to spread like wildfire, the International Cricket Council (ICC) is expected to conduct preliminary discussions on the fate of the ICC T20 World Cup on March 29, according to reports. An 18-member board of directors including heads of 12 Test playing nations are set to hold discussions surrounding T20 World Cup 2020 on March 29. ALSO READ: BCCI cancels con-call with franchise owners as fate of IPL 2020 hangs by thin thread due to COVID-19 pandemic The showpiece event is scheduled to kickstart in October 2020 and is set to be hosted by Australia. However, with major tournaments getting cancelled amid the coronavirus pandemic, all eyes have shifted towards the World Cup in the shortest format of the game. Interestingly, there’s another T20 World Cup scheduled in 2021 which will be hosted by India, hence, it will be interesting to see who backs out and whether one of the events get affected to not. ALSO READ: Have the Summer Olympics ever been cancelled? A look back at history as dark clouds hover over 2020 Tokyo Games The previous edition of the ICC T20 World Cup was hosted by India in 2016 where West Indies defeated England in the humdinger of a final. Carlos Brathwaite had come out as the hero for the Windies after smashing four sixes off Ben Stokes in the final over to help the Men in Maroon lift the coveted trophy.

ICC set to have preliminary discussions on ICC T20 World Cup on March 29 as COVID-19 continues to impact global sports

Rohit Sharma is known to play best shots against the short balls, he is called the 'Pull King' for his signature pull shot sixes. These shots have featured in almost every innings played.&nbsp;

ICC tweeted a picture of four legendary cricketers asking who is the better player in terms of pull shots. Rohit Sharma was missing out in the options. The prolific Indian Batsman took a dig at ICC.&nbsp;

ICC posted this:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Which batsman, past or present, has the best pull shot, in your opinion? 👀 <a href="https://t.co/TAXf8rr3el">pic.twitter.com/TAXf8rr3el</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1241522487055302663?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

To which Rohit Sharma responded:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Someone’s missing here ?? Not easy to work from home I guess <a href="https://t.co/sbonEva7AM">https://t.co/sbonEva7AM</a>
— Rohit Sharma (@ImRo45) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45/status/1241670466558812160?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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With the novel coronavirus spreading like a wildfire, the entire sporting world has come to a halt. In India, at least 400 people have been tested positive for the COVID-19 with new cases surfacing with each passing day. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) not only decided to suspend the highly-anticipated Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 until April 15 while suspending the entire domestic season until further notice.

Rohit Sharma is known to play best shots against the short balls, he is called the 'Pull King' for his signature pull shot sixes. These shots have featured in almost every innings played.

Rohit Sharma is known to play best shots against the short balls, he is called the 'Pull King' for his signature pull shot sixes. These shots have featured in almost every innings played. ICC tweeted a picture of four legendary cricketers asking who is the better player in terms of pull shots. Rohit Sharma was missing out in the options. The prolific Indian Batsman took a dig at ICC. ICC posted this: Which batsman, past or present, has the best pull shot, in your opinion? 👀 pic.twitter.com/TAXf8rr3el — ICC (@ICC) March 22, 2020 × To which Rohit Sharma responded: Someone’s missing here ?? Not easy to work from home I guess https://t.co/sbonEva7AM — Rohit Sharma (@ImRo45) March 22, 2020 × With the novel coronavirus spreading like a wildfire, the entire sporting world has come to a halt. In India, at least 400 people have been tested positive for the COVID-19 with new cases surfacing with each passing day. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) not only decided to suspend the highly-anticipated Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 until April 15 while suspending the entire domestic season until further notice.

'Not easy to work from home' - Rohit Sharma takes sly dig at ICC after 'Best Pull Shot' tweet

Former cricketer and Australia's head coach Justin Langer said that the team is looking for a finisher like Mahendra Singh Dhoni in the limited-overs format.

Australia will take on New Zealand in a three-match ODI series from March 13.

The series provides an opportunity to the Aussies to look for a batsman who could play the role of a `finisher`.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl/ipl-2020-dhoni-receives-grand-welcome-at-chennai-ahead-of-practice-session-283661">IPL 2020: Dhoni receives grand welcome at Chennai ahead of practice session</a>

"We have been fortunate in the past with a Mike Hussey or a Michael Bevan who are masters at it. MS Dhoni is a master of it, Jos Buttler has been brilliant at it for England," ICC quoted langer as saying.

"What I`ve learned is everyone in the world is looking for it," he added.

South Africa thrashed Australia 3-0 in the recently concluded ODI series. In the series, Mitchell Marsh played at number 6 in the second and third games and scored 32 and 36 runs respectively.

Langer feels that the South African series provides a good opportunity for the batsman."So it`s a role that`s there for someone to grab hold of," said Langer.

"No one at this stage has absolutely secured it, have they? But there are good opportunities there for someone to do that," he added.

Australia and New Zealand will face each other in the first ODI on Friday, March 13.

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Former cricketer and Australia's head coach Justin Langer said that the team is looking for a finisher like Mahendra Singh Dhoni in the limited-overs format. Australia will take on New Zealand in a three-match ODI series from March 13.

Former cricketer and Australia's head coach Justin Langer said that the team is looking for a finisher like Mahendra Singh Dhoni in the limited-overs format. Australia will take on New Zealand in a three-match ODI series from March 13. The series provides an opportunity to the Aussies to look for a batsman who could play the role of a `finisher`. Also Read: IPL 2020: Dhoni receives grand welcome at Chennai ahead of practice session "We have been fortunate in the past with a Mike Hussey or a Michael Bevan who are masters at it. MS Dhoni is a master of it, Jos Buttler has been brilliant at it for England," ICC quoted langer as saying. "What I`ve learned is everyone in the world is looking for it," he added. South Africa thrashed Australia 3-0 in the recently concluded ODI series. In the series, Mitchell Marsh played at number 6 in the second and third games and scored 32 and 36 runs respectively. Langer feels that the South African series provides a good opportunity for the batsman."So it`s a role that`s there for someone to grab hold of," said Langer. "No one at this stage has absolutely secured it, have they? But there are good opportunities there for someone to do that," he added. Australia and New Zealand will face each other in the first ODI on Friday, March 13.

'Dhoni is a master of white-ball finisher': Justin Langer

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Saturday released TV and digital viewing figures for the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2020 group stage, setting new TV and digital records and becoming the most-watched women`s cricket event ever.&nbsp;

Across ICC's digital and social platforms, fans have engaged in greater numbers than ever before with an unprecedented 701 million video views to date.&nbsp;

This is a record for ICC women's events with the previous best coming in 2017 for the Women's Cricket World Cup, which netted a total of 100 million views from the whole event.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the official tournament social channels have attracted 34 million engagements and over 2 billion impressions with fans.&nbsp;

Through the ICC's global broadcast partner, the event has been shown in almost 160 territories across the world through live and highlights television coverage.&nbsp;

Continuing the TV viewership records, Australia's opening game against India became the second most-watched women's match in Australia with a combined average audience of 448,000 across the networks.&nbsp;

Whilst in India, the same game saw a reach of 20 million and an average audience of 3.55 million which is 39 per cent higher than the most-watched match at the ICC Women`s World Twenty20 2018 edition.&nbsp;

The first 12 matches of this event have attracted 2.46 billion viewing minutes in India versus 787 million viewing minutes for the same matches in the 2018 event.&nbsp;

This represents a 213 per cent increase. The final of the tournament will be played between host Australia and India at Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) later in the day.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Saturday released TV and digital viewing figures for the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2020 group stage, setting new TV and digital records and becoming the most-watched women`s cricket event ever.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Saturday released TV and digital viewing figures for the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2020 group stage, setting new TV and digital records and becoming the most-watched women`s cricket event ever. Across ICC's digital and social platforms, fans have engaged in greater numbers than ever before with an unprecedented 701 million video views to date. This is a record for ICC women's events with the previous best coming in 2017 for the Women's Cricket World Cup, which netted a total of 100 million views from the whole event. Meanwhile, the official tournament social channels have attracted 34 million engagements and over 2 billion impressions with fans. Through the ICC's global broadcast partner, the event has been shown in almost 160 territories across the world through live and highlights television coverage. Continuing the TV viewership records, Australia's opening game against India became the second most-watched women's match in Australia with a combined average audience of 448,000 across the networks. Whilst in India, the same game saw a reach of 20 million and an average audience of 3.55 million which is 39 per cent higher than the most-watched match at the ICC Women`s World Twenty20 2018 edition. The first 12 matches of this event have attracted 2.46 billion viewing minutes in India versus 787 million viewing minutes for the same matches in the 2018 event. This represents a 213 per cent increase. The final of the tournament will be played between host Australia and India at Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) later in the day.

ICC Women's T20 World Cup breaks all audience records

Defending champions Australia has proceeded into the finals of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup after beating the South African women's cricket team by 5 runs (DLS) on Thursday.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-womens-t20-world-cup-india-progress-to-finals-after-semifinal-match-gets-abandoned-284411" hreflang="en">ICC Women's T20 World Cup: India progress to finals after semifinal match gets abandoned</a>

Despite losing Perry, Australia must not be underestimated as they stunned the cup favourites South Africa team.

Australian women's team scored 134 runs by the end of the 20 overs. Their captain Meg Lanning led the team from the front as she scored 49 runs (not out).

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/icc-womens-t20-world-cup-semifinal-why-indias-women-in-blue-will-beat-england-284286" hreflang="en">ICC Women's T20 World Cup semifinal: Why India's 'Women in Blue' will beat England</a>

South African innings were revised due to rain. The revised target is 98 runs off 13 overs. The Proteas fell five runs short of the target scoring 92 runs off 5 wickets in 20 overs.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-womens-t20-world-cup-shafali-verma-stars-as-india-qualify-for-semifinals-283099">ICC Women's T20 World Cup: Shafali Verma stars as India qualify for semifinals</a>

The hosts (Australians) will now face India in the final match on Sunday.&nbsp; For the first time in their history, India has qualified for the ICC Women's T20 World Cup final.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/teen-sensation-shafali-verma-now-has-highest-strike-rate-in-womens-t20is-283027">Teen sensation Shafali Verma now has highest strike-rate in Women's T20Is</a>

The 'Women in Blue' are having a dream-run in this years ICC T20 World Cup. Harmanpreet and Co are the only unbeaten side in the tournament. They started their campaign by defeating the defending Champs and hosts Australia by 17 runs. Aussies will be eyeing redemption against the 'women in blue'.

Australia's star all-rounder Ellyse Perry is out of the tournament after she was struck by a hamstring injury during their match with New Zealand.

India's explosive opener Shafali Verma and bowler Poonam Yadav's form could guide the women to their maiden ICC trophy.

&nbsp;

Defending champions Australia has proceeded into the finals of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup after beating the South African women's cricket team by 5 runs (DLS) on Thursday.

Defending champions Australia has proceeded into the finals of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup after beating the South African women's cricket team by 5 runs (DLS) on Thursday. Also read: ICC Women's T20 World Cup: India progress to finals after semifinal match gets abandoned Despite losing Perry, Australia must not be underestimated as they stunned the cup favourites South Africa team. Australian women's team scored 134 runs by the end of the 20 overs. Their captain Meg Lanning led the team from the front as she scored 49 runs (not out). Also see: ICC Women's T20 World Cup semifinal: Why India's 'Women in Blue' will beat England South African innings were revised due to rain. The revised target is 98 runs off 13 overs. The Proteas fell five runs short of the target scoring 92 runs off 5 wickets in 20 overs. Also read: ICC Women's T20 World Cup: Shafali Verma stars as India qualify for semifinals The hosts (Australians) will now face India in the final match on Sunday. For the first time in their history, India has qualified for the ICC Women's T20 World Cup final. Also read: Teen sensation Shafali Verma now has highest strike-rate in Women's T20Is The 'Women in Blue' are having a dream-run in this years ICC T20 World Cup. Harmanpreet and Co are the only unbeaten side in the tournament. They started their campaign by defeating the defending Champs and hosts Australia by 17 runs. Aussies will be eyeing redemption against the 'women in blue'. Australia's star all-rounder Ellyse Perry is out of the tournament after she was struck by a hamstring injury during their match with New Zealand. India's explosive opener Shafali Verma and bowler Poonam Yadav's form could guide the women to their maiden ICC trophy.

ICC Women's T20 World Cup: India set to face Australia in finals

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