Media professional <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/all-you-need-to-know-to-about-manu-sawhney-the-new-icc-chief-190537">Manu Sawhney</a> on Monday took charge as chief executive of the International Cricket Council and will work alongside Dave Richardson, who will step down after the World Cup in July.&nbsp;

Former ESPN Star Sports MD Sawhney has already been working alongside outgoing Chief Executive Richardson for the last six weeks to ensure a smooth transition.&nbsp;

Richardson will remain with the ICC until July as originally planned to oversee the delivery of the World Cup in the United Kingdom. Sawhney was appointed in January.

His appointment was ratified by the ICC Board following a global search and appointment process led by the apex body's chairman Shashank Manohar and the Nominations Committee.

"I am absolutely delighted to be taking over the reins from David, who has steered the sport so capably over the last seven years. I am excited by the opportunities ahead and I am looking forward to working in partnership with our Members, partners and staff to ambitiously accelerate the global growth of the game," said Sawhney.&nbsp;

"Technology, engagement, women's cricket and driving greater value are key focus areas for us as we consider how we can innovate to transform the sport's long-term future and create a vibrant and sustainable sport globally," he added.

Sawhney was with ESPN Star Sports for 17 years and was responsible for scaling the business and doubling annual revenues.

He also led the global broadcast partnership deal with the ICC that ran from 2007-2015. He is also a non-executive director and member of the Audit Committee of Manchester United Ltd.&nbsp;

Media professional Manu Sawhney on Monday took charge as chief executive of the International Cricket Council and will work alongside Dave Richardson, who will step down after the World Cup in July.

Media professional Manu Sawhney on Monday took charge as chief executive of the International Cricket Council and will work alongside Dave Richardson, who will step down after the World Cup in July. Former ESPN Star Sports MD Sawhney has already been working alongside outgoing Chief Executive Richardson for the last six weeks to ensure a smooth transition. Richardson will remain with the ICC until July as originally planned to oversee the delivery of the World Cup in the United Kingdom. Sawhney was appointed in January. His appointment was ratified by the ICC Board following a global search and appointment process led by the apex body's chairman Shashank Manohar and the Nominations Committee. "I am absolutely delighted to be taking over the reins from David, who has steered the sport so capably over the last seven years. I am excited by the opportunities ahead and I am looking forward to working in partnership with our Members, partners and staff to ambitiously accelerate the global growth of the game," said Sawhney. "Technology, engagement, women's cricket and driving greater value are key focus areas for us as we consider how we can innovate to transform the sport's long-term future and create a vibrant and sustainable sport globally," he added. Sawhney was with ESPN Star Sports for 17 years and was responsible for scaling the business and doubling annual revenues. He also led the global broadcast partnership deal with the ICC that ran from 2007-2015. He is also a non-executive director and member of the Audit Committee of Manchester United Ltd.

Sawhney takes charge as ICC Chief Executive

Trailblazing bowler Rashid Khan said Afghanistan will fear no one when the World Cup starts in May after a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/afghanistan-beat-ireland-for-historic-first-test-victory-204030">maiden Test win</a> enhanced the reputation of the rising cricket nation.

Khan, who is one of the world's leading bowlers in short-form cricket, said Afghanistan's confidence was growing after beating Ireland on Monday in just their second Test match.

The 20-year-old leg-spinner, who tops the world Twenty20 bowling rankings and lies third in the 50-over standings, took five for 82 as Afghanistan beat their fellow Test newcomers in Dehradun.

Before an expected starring role for Sunrisers Hyderabad when the 2019 Indian Premier League (IPL) begins at the weekend, Khan said Aghanistan's cricketers now need only to believe in themselves.

"We have the talent and we have the skills," he told AFP in an interview.

At last year's Asia Cup, Afghanistan made a breakthrough by topping their group in the 50-over competition ahead of established Test nations Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.

'Believe in your skills'

"How we played in the Asia Cup was totally different and we showed that we can beat any side," said Khan, whose side even tied a match with heavyweights India in the last-four stage.

"The only thing is to believe in your skills. Just to be relaxed in big matches and enjoy your game," he said.&nbsp;

"And that's how we should be in the World Cup."

War-torn Afghanistan only gained one-day international (ODI) status in 2009 and Test status in 2017, but their recent rise has coincided with Khan's emergence as a world-class spinner.

He made his ODI debut in 2015 as a 17-year-old and credits fast-paced Twenty20 tournaments such as the IPL for developing his bowling repertoire, which includes a mesmerising googly.

"The IPL gives you lot of motivation. Once you play in these leagues, it gives you confidence playing with big players," said Khan, who cost Hyderabad $597,000 in 2017 and took 21 wickets for them last year.

"And then you perform there on flat wickets like the IPL and that gives you a kind of satisfaction and confidence that I can deliver when I am in the national side."

Khan has travelled the world to take part in Twenty20 leagues including Australia's Big Bash, the Caribbean Premier League and the Pakistan Super League.

"It really helps to improve your skills working with different coaches and players," he said. "Pick their thoughts and experience and that really helps you improve your game."

Khan, one of 12 siblings, learnt his cricket with a tennis ball in the remote and humble province of Nangarhar before making his international debut against Zimbabwe in Bulawayo.

The world took notice when he became the fastest bowler to 100 ODI wickets, completing the milestone in 44 games, eight fewer than Australia's Mitchell Starc. He now has 123 in 57 matches.

'I don't pressure myself'

Khan says the key to his success is that he focuses only on practising and playing despite bearing the huge expectation that he will take wickets every time he bowls.

"I don't put that pressure on myself. I keep trying to enjoy myself. Enjoy my bowling whether I take wickets or not," he said.

"I focus on doing the right things and bowl well. I don't focus on the result but focus on my hard work."

Khan, who is a big fan of Pakistan all-round great Shahid Afridi, said it was tough learning to play cricket in a country ravaged by war for decades.

While many of the Afghanistan's players learnt the game in refugee camps across the border in Pakistan, Khan played with his seven brothers to hone his skills.

"It was tough because of the lack of facilities. No good grounds and equipment. But we still enjoyed our cricket," said Khan with a smile.

"We never put it in our mind that we don't have facilities or stuff like that and tried to focus on our game.&nbsp;

"My brothers used to watch and play cricket and that's how I became a big fan of the game."

Afghanistan lost their debut Test to top-ranked India inside two days in 2018, but came back a much-improved side against Ireland a year later.

"The win against Ireland will help motivate our first-class cricketers," Khan said. "People will start loving Tests rather than Twenty20s and ODIs."

Trailblazing bowler Rashid Khan said Afghanistan will fear no one when the World Cup starts in May after a maiden Test win enhanced the reputation of the rising cricket nation.

Trailblazing bowler Rashid Khan said Afghanistan will fear no one when the World Cup starts in May after a maiden Test win enhanced the reputation of the rising cricket nation. Khan, who is one of the world's leading bowlers in short-form cricket, said Afghanistan's confidence was growing after beating Ireland on Monday in just their second Test match. The 20-year-old leg-spinner, who tops the world Twenty20 bowling rankings and lies third in the 50-over standings, took five for 82 as Afghanistan beat their fellow Test newcomers in Dehradun. Before an expected starring role for Sunrisers Hyderabad when the 2019 Indian Premier League (IPL) begins at the weekend, Khan said Aghanistan's cricketers now need only to believe in themselves. "We have the talent and we have the skills," he told AFP in an interview. At last year's Asia Cup, Afghanistan made a breakthrough by topping their group in the 50-over competition ahead of established Test nations Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. 'Believe in your skills' "How we played in the Asia Cup was totally different and we showed that we can beat any side," said Khan, whose side even tied a match with heavyweights India in the last-four stage. "The only thing is to believe in your skills. Just to be relaxed in big matches and enjoy your game," he said. "And that's how we should be in the World Cup." War-torn Afghanistan only gained one-day international (ODI) status in 2009 and Test status in 2017, but their recent rise has coincided with Khan's emergence as a world-class spinner. He made his ODI debut in 2015 as a 17-year-old and credits fast-paced Twenty20 tournaments such as the IPL for developing his bowling repertoire, which includes a mesmerising googly. "The IPL gives you lot of motivation. Once you play in these leagues, it gives you confidence playing with big players," said Khan, who cost Hyderabad $597,000 in 2017 and took 21 wickets for them last year. "And then you perform there on flat wickets like the IPL and that gives you a kind of satisfaction and confidence that I can deliver when I am in the national side." Khan has travelled the world to take part in Twenty20 leagues including Australia's Big Bash, the Caribbean Premier League and the Pakistan Super League. "It really helps to improve your skills working with different coaches and players," he said. "Pick their thoughts and experience and that really helps you improve your game." Khan, one of 12 siblings, learnt his cricket with a tennis ball in the remote and humble province of Nangarhar before making his international debut against Zimbabwe in Bulawayo. The world took notice when he became the fastest bowler to 100 ODI wickets, completing the milestone in 44 games, eight fewer than Australia's Mitchell Starc. He now has 123 in 57 matches. 'I don't pressure myself' Khan says the key to his success is that he focuses only on practising and playing despite bearing the huge expectation that he will take wickets every time he bowls. "I don't put that pressure on myself. I keep trying to enjoy myself. Enjoy my bowling whether I take wickets or not," he said. "I focus on doing the right things and bowl well. I don't focus on the result but focus on my hard work." Khan, who is a big fan of Pakistan all-round great Shahid Afridi, said it was tough learning to play cricket in a country ravaged by war for decades. While many of the Afghanistan's players learnt the game in refugee camps across the border in Pakistan, Khan played with his seven brothers to hone his skills. "It was tough because of the lack of facilities. No good grounds and equipment. But we still enjoyed our cricket," said Khan with a smile. "We never put it in our mind that we don't have facilities or stuff like that and tried to focus on our game. "My brothers used to watch and play cricket and that's how I became a big fan of the game." Afghanistan lost their debut Test to top-ranked India inside two days in 2018, but came back a much-improved side against Ireland a year later. "The win against Ireland will help motivate our first-class cricketers," Khan said. "People will start loving Tests rather than Twenty20s and ODIs."

Bring on the World Cup, we fear no one: Rashid Khan

The Pakistan Cricket Board has paid the BCCI approximately $1.6 million as compensation after losing the case it filed against the Indian Board for allegedly not honouring a bilateral agreement, PCB Chairman Ehsan Mani claimed on Monday.&nbsp;

The PCB had filed a compensation case against the BCCI last year before the ICC's Dispute Resolution Committee, demanding around $70 million.

The ICC dismissed it and asked the PCB to compensate the legal cost to the BCCI.&nbsp;

"We incurred cost of around $2.2 million on the compensation case which we lost," Mani said.

"The ICC committee did accept that Pakistan had a case and that is why the damages/cost we had to pay to the Indian board was around $1.6 million," Mani said.&nbsp;

Mani insisted that besides the amount paid to India to cover the legal cost, the other expenses were related to legal fees and travel.

According to the PCB, the agreement with India, which it claimed was a binding Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), ensured Pakistan six bilateral series between 2015 and 2023.

Pakistan said the BCCI reneged on the commitment, causing it losses running into millions of dollars.

The Indian Cricket Board, however, maintained that the discussion with PCB was a proposal and never a legally binding MoU.&nbsp;

Ultimately, the BCCI's assertion was accepted by the ICC's dispute resolution committee.&nbsp;

The Pakistan Cricket Board has paid the BCCI approximately $1.6 million as compensation after losing the case it filed against the Indian Board for allegedly not honouring a bilateral agreement, PCB Chairman Ehsan Mani claimed on Monday.

The Pakistan Cricket Board has paid the BCCI approximately $1.6 million as compensation after losing the case it filed against the Indian Board for allegedly not honouring a bilateral agreement, PCB Chairman Ehsan Mani claimed on Monday. The PCB had filed a compensation case against the BCCI last year before the ICC's Dispute Resolution Committee, demanding around $70 million. The ICC dismissed it and asked the PCB to compensate the legal cost to the BCCI. "We incurred cost of around $2.2 million on the compensation case which we lost," Mani said. "The ICC committee did accept that Pakistan had a case and that is why the damages/cost we had to pay to the Indian board was around $1.6 million," Mani said. Mani insisted that besides the amount paid to India to cover the legal cost, the other expenses were related to legal fees and travel. According to the PCB, the agreement with India, which it claimed was a binding Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), ensured Pakistan six bilateral series between 2015 and 2023. Pakistan said the BCCI reneged on the commitment, causing it losses running into millions of dollars. The Indian Cricket Board, however, maintained that the discussion with PCB was a proposal and never a legally binding MoU. Ultimately, the BCCI's assertion was accepted by the ICC's dispute resolution committee.

PCB pays compensation to BCCI after losing case in ICC's Dispute Resolution Committee

The chief of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-complacency-on-icc-world-cup-security-says-icc-chief-executive-david-richardson-203975">International Cricket Council</a> (ICC)&nbsp;David Richardson said that he can not anticipate any threat to the&nbsp;India-Pakistan World Cup match, which is scheduled to&nbsp;take place&nbsp;on June 16 in&nbsp;Manchester.&nbsp;

He further added that both the teams are&nbsp;bound by an ICC agreement to show up.&nbsp;

"For ICC events, all teams have signed a members' participation agreement which requires them to participate in all the matches of the tournament and (in case of) any unjustified non-compliance with that provision, the playing conditions will kick in and the points will be awarded accordingly (to the other team)," he said when asked about the matter.&nbsp;

There have been calls to boycott&nbsp;the high-profile match after last month's Pulwama terror attack which killed more than 40 CRPF personnel in India.&nbsp;

Responding to the outrage, the Committee of Administrators running Indian cricket also wrote a letter to the ICC urging it to boycott countries from where "terrorism emanates", but did not specifically name Pakistan.&nbsp;

"The ICC's motto is clear we don't want to mix politics with sports."&nbsp;

Asked about the ICC's role in the resumption of bilateral ties between India and Pakistan, Richardson said it was completely up to the two cricketing boards.&nbsp;

The ICC CEO said the perception about Pakistan among the rest of the world is slowly changing and the world body is supporting its member board to bring back international cricket to the nation.&nbsp;

The chief of International Cricket Council (ICC) David Richardson said that he can not anticipate any threat to the India-Pakistan World Cup match, which is scheduled to take place on June 16 in Manchester.

The chief of International Cricket Council (ICC) David Richardson said that he can not anticipate any threat to the India-Pakistan World Cup match, which is scheduled to take place on June 16 in Manchester. He further added that both the teams are bound by an ICC agreement to show up. "For ICC events, all teams have signed a members' participation agreement which requires them to participate in all the matches of the tournament and (in case of) any unjustified non-compliance with that provision, the playing conditions will kick in and the points will be awarded accordingly (to the other team)," he said when asked about the matter. There have been calls to boycott the high-profile match after last month's Pulwama terror attack which killed more than 40 CRPF personnel in India. Responding to the outrage, the Committee of Administrators running Indian cricket also wrote a letter to the ICC urging it to boycott countries from where "terrorism emanates", but did not specifically name Pakistan. "The ICC's motto is clear we don't want to mix politics with sports." Asked about the ICC's role in the resumption of bilateral ties between India and Pakistan, Richardson said it was completely up to the two cricketing boards. The ICC CEO said the perception about Pakistan among the rest of the world is slowly changing and the world body is supporting its member board to bring back international cricket to the nation.

Indo-Pak World Cup match bound by ICC agreement: ICC chief David Richardson

The United States will withdraw or deny visas to any International Criminal Court personnel investigating possible war crimes by US forces or allies in Afghanistan, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Friday.

The court, which sits in The Hague, responded that it was an independent and impartial institution and would continue to do its work "undeterred" by Washington`s actions.

The Trump administration threatened in September to ban ICC judges and prosecutors from entering the United States and sanction funds they have there if the court launched a probe of war crimes in Afghanistan.

Washington took the first step on Friday with Pompeo`s announcement.

"I`m announcing a policy of US visa restrictions on those individuals directly responsible for any ICC investigation of US personnel," Pompeo told a news conference in Washington.

"These visa restrictions may also be used to deter ICC efforts to pursue allied personnel, including Israelis, without allies` consent."&nbsp;

Pompeo said the policy was already being implemented but would not elaborate, citing visa privacy laws.

"These visa restrictions will not be the end of our efforts," he said. "We`re prepared to take additional steps, including economic sanctions, if the ICC does not change its course."

Human Rights Watch called the announcement a "thuggish attempt to penalise investigators" at the court.

"Taking action against those who work for the ICC sends a clear message to torturers and murderers alike: Their crimes may continue unchecked," the group`s Washington director, Andrea Prasow, said, calling on US lawmakers to express support for the court.

In November 2017, the ICC prosecutor requested authorization from judges to initiate an investigation into alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity in Afghanistan since May 1, 2003, including in states where the CIA held prisoners.&nbsp;

Judges are reviewing all material submitted by the prosecutor, and must decide whether or not to authorise an investigation.&nbsp;

With 123 member states, including the entire European Union, the ICC was established in 2002 to prosecute war crimes, genocide or crimes against humanity when a country is unable or unwilling to prosecute perpetrators. Major powers, including the United States, China and Russia, are not members.

A State Department official said the United States would allow court officials to travel for meetings to the United Nations headquarters in New York. 
"Under these measures, we will not interfere with travel to the UN for official UN purposes," the official said. The ICC is not part of the United Nations.

The United States will withdraw or deny visas to any International Criminal Court personnel investigating possible war crimes by US forces or allies in Afghanistan, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Friday.

The United States will withdraw or deny visas to any International Criminal Court personnel investigating possible war crimes by US forces or allies in Afghanistan, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Friday. The court, which sits in The Hague, responded that it was an independent and impartial institution and would continue to do its work "undeterred" by Washington`s actions. The Trump administration threatened in September to ban ICC judges and prosecutors from entering the United States and sanction funds they have there if the court launched a probe of war crimes in Afghanistan. Washington took the first step on Friday with Pompeo`s announcement. "I`m announcing a policy of US visa restrictions on those individuals directly responsible for any ICC investigation of US personnel," Pompeo told a news conference in Washington. "These visa restrictions may also be used to deter ICC efforts to pursue allied personnel, including Israelis, without allies` consent." Pompeo said the policy was already being implemented but would not elaborate, citing visa privacy laws. "These visa restrictions will not be the end of our efforts," he said. "We`re prepared to take additional steps, including economic sanctions, if the ICC does not change its course." Human Rights Watch called the announcement a "thuggish attempt to penalise investigators" at the court. "Taking action against those who work for the ICC sends a clear message to torturers and murderers alike: Their crimes may continue unchecked," the group`s Washington director, Andrea Prasow, said, calling on US lawmakers to express support for the court. In November 2017, the ICC prosecutor requested authorization from judges to initiate an investigation into alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity in Afghanistan since May 1, 2003, including in states where the CIA held prisoners. Judges are reviewing all material submitted by the prosecutor, and must decide whether or not to authorise an investigation. With 123 member states, including the entire European Union, the ICC was established in 2002 to prosecute war crimes, genocide or crimes against humanity when a country is unable or unwilling to prosecute perpetrators. Major powers, including the United States, China and Russia, are not members. A State Department official said the United States would allow court officials to travel for meetings to the United Nations headquarters in New York. "Under these measures, we will not interfere with travel to the UN for official UN purposes," the official said. The ICC is not part of the United Nations.

US imposes visa bans on International Criminal Court investigators: Pompeo

The International Cricket Council (ICC) chief David Richardson offered condolences to the victims and their families of Christchurch mosque shooting.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/49-killed-in-christchurch-mosque-attack-one-person-charged-new-zealand-police-203495">At least 49 people died</a> in attacks on two mosques during Friday prayers in what appeared to be the worst assault on Muslims in a Western country.&nbsp;

"Our thoughts and sincere condolences go out to families and friends of those affected by this horrendous incident in Christchurch," said Richardson.&nbsp;

"Both teams, staff and match officials are safe and ICC fully supports the decision to cancel the Test match," he added.&nbsp;

The third cricket Test between New Zealand and Bangladesh has been cancelled in the wake of a shooting.&nbsp;

The visiting team narrowly avoided the shooting after arriving at the mosque for prayers.&nbsp;

New Zealand Cricket said they had decided to cancel the Test, which was scheduled to start at Hagley Oval on Saturday, after discussions with the Bangladesh Cricket Board.&nbsp;

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Arden said the attack was an "unprecedented act of violence" and "one of New Zealand's darkest days".&nbsp;

"This is significant and I can tell you now this is and will be one of New Zealand's darkest days. I would describe it as an unprecedented act of violence, an act that has absolutely no place in New Zealand. This is not who we are," she said.&nbsp;

The International Cricket Council (ICC) chief David Richardson offered condolences to the victims and their families of Christchurch mosque shooting. At least 49 people died in attacks on two mosques during Friday prayers in what appeared to be the worst assault on Muslims in a Western country.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) chief David Richardson offered condolences to the victims and their families of Christchurch mosque shooting. At least 49 people died in attacks on two mosques during Friday prayers in what appeared to be the worst assault on Muslims in a Western country. "Our thoughts and sincere condolences go out to families and friends of those affected by this horrendous incident in Christchurch," said Richardson. "Both teams, staff and match officials are safe and ICC fully supports the decision to cancel the Test match," he added. The third cricket Test between New Zealand and Bangladesh has been cancelled in the wake of a shooting. The visiting team narrowly avoided the shooting after arriving at the mosque for prayers. New Zealand Cricket said they had decided to cancel the Test, which was scheduled to start at Hagley Oval on Saturday, after discussions with the Bangladesh Cricket Board. New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Arden said the attack was an "unprecedented act of violence" and "one of New Zealand's darkest days". "This is significant and I can tell you now this is and will be one of New Zealand's darkest days. I would describe it as an unprecedented act of violence, an act that has absolutely no place in New Zealand. This is not who we are," she said.

ICC supports decision to cancel Test match between New Zealand and Bangladesh after Christchurch mosque attack

Jasprit Bumrah's freakishly unconventional bowling action may pose injury concerns to his "lumbar vertebrae", feels Dr Simon Feros, a lecturer in functional anatomy/strength and conditioning sciences.&nbsp;

Part of Deakin University's sports team in Victoria, Australia, Feros and renowned physiotherapist Gloster studied the Indian pacer's bowling action.

Ranked the third best sport science school in the world, Deakin University's School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences is a leader in its field.

"Bumrah tends to release the ball outside the line of the front foot. This means he can 'push' at the ball, usually resulting in an excellent in-swing delivery to a right-hand batter.

"However, if he exceeds 45 degrees of trunk lateral flexion (which I think he may on some occasions), then this element of his action may pose some injury concerns to his lumbar vertebrae," said Feros.

The lumbar vertebrae are the five vertebrae between the rib cage and the pelvis.

Even as many in the international cricket community feel Bumrah could find it difficult to sustain for long without injury with his unusual action, Feros and Gloster made some positive observations about one of the world's most successful fast bowlers of recent times.

"In terms of pelvis and shoulder segment alignment in back foot contact, delivery stride, and back foot contact, Bumrah's action looks safe; he doesn't appear to place his spine under excessive torsional stress," Feros said.

So, what makes him so lethal despite possessing a whip-like action? It's Bumrah's uniqueness, according to Gloster.

"His unique action allows him to deliver consistently the types of deliveries he possesses, particularly his yorker. The ability of Lasith Malinga to be so effective was in part due to his unusual action (making it often difficult to pick up the ball)."

Gloster concluded his analysis of Bumrah's action by stating that the body is an "amazing machine" and given time will adapt to almost anything, and lauded his earlier coaches for not tinkering with his action.

Gloster has worked extensively in international cricket for the last 17 years, most notably as a physiotherapist to the Indian team for three and half years.

Dr&nbsp;Feros works at the School of Exercise &amp; Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University.

While Bumrah's short run-up and sling-arm action make it difficult for batsmen to pick him, Feros said he is more deceptive than others.

"I'm not sure if unpredictable is the best word here. I would say he is certainly more deceptive than most other fast bowlers. This is because most bowlers gather the ball to the chin when they jump, and batters can get a good read on the ball.&nbsp;

"With Bumrah, the ball is harder to detect as its higher and behind his body. He also runs in quite slowly, which would affect the rhythm or coordination of the batter in being able to time the stroke appropriately given the arm speed and delivery speed of Bumrah is so fast compared to his other segments."

Gloster, who has been involved in nearly 55 international cricket tours/series as head physiotherapist, said, "Bumrah has developed muscle control, stability and power to support this action to date.

"The body is an amazing machine and given time will adapt to most anything, including the capacity to repeatedly deliver a ball at high speeds and accuracy with this visually unusual bowling action.

"Given his current effectiveness in world cricket, I feel his earlier coaches should be applauded for not trying to change his action and 'mould' him into the 'perfect action' bowler."&nbsp;

Jasprit Bumrah's freakishly unconventional bowling action may pose injury concerns to his "lumbar vertebrae", feels Dr Simon Feros, a lecturer in functional anatomy/strength and conditioning sciences.

Jasprit Bumrah's freakishly unconventional bowling action may pose injury concerns to his "lumbar vertebrae", feels Dr Simon Feros, a lecturer in functional anatomy/strength and conditioning sciences. Part of Deakin University's sports team in Victoria, Australia, Feros and renowned physiotherapist Gloster studied the Indian pacer's bowling action. Ranked the third best sport science school in the world, Deakin University's School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences is a leader in its field. "Bumrah tends to release the ball outside the line of the front foot. This means he can 'push' at the ball, usually resulting in an excellent in-swing delivery to a right-hand batter. "However, if he exceeds 45 degrees of trunk lateral flexion (which I think he may on some occasions), then this element of his action may pose some injury concerns to his lumbar vertebrae," said Feros. The lumbar vertebrae are the five vertebrae between the rib cage and the pelvis. Even as many in the international cricket community feel Bumrah could find it difficult to sustain for long without injury with his unusual action, Feros and Gloster made some positive observations about one of the world's most successful fast bowlers of recent times. "In terms of pelvis and shoulder segment alignment in back foot contact, delivery stride, and back foot contact, Bumrah's action looks safe; he doesn't appear to place his spine under excessive torsional stress," Feros said. So, what makes him so lethal despite possessing a whip-like action? It's Bumrah's uniqueness, according to Gloster. "His unique action allows him to deliver consistently the types of deliveries he possesses, particularly his yorker. The ability of Lasith Malinga to be so effective was in part due to his unusual action (making it often difficult to pick up the ball)." Gloster concluded his analysis of Bumrah's action by stating that the body is an "amazing machine" and given time will adapt to almost anything, and lauded his earlier coaches for not tinkering with his action. Gloster has worked extensively in international cricket for the last 17 years, most notably as a physiotherapist to the Indian team for three and half years. Dr Feros works at the School of Exercise & Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University. While Bumrah's short run-up and sling-arm action make it difficult for batsmen to pick him, Feros said he is more deceptive than others. "I'm not sure if unpredictable is the best word here. I would say he is certainly more deceptive than most other fast bowlers. This is because most bowlers gather the ball to the chin when they jump, and batters can get a good read on the ball. "With Bumrah, the ball is harder to detect as its higher and behind his body. He also runs in quite slowly, which would affect the rhythm or coordination of the batter in being able to time the stroke appropriately given the arm speed and delivery speed of Bumrah is so fast compared to his other segments." Gloster, who has been involved in nearly 55 international cricket tours/series as head physiotherapist, said, "Bumrah has developed muscle control, stability and power to support this action to date. "The body is an amazing machine and given time will adapt to most anything, including the capacity to repeatedly deliver a ball at high speeds and accuracy with this visually unusual bowling action. "Given his current effectiveness in world cricket, I feel his earlier coaches should be applauded for not trying to change his action and 'mould' him into the 'perfect action' bowler."

Jasprit Bumrah faces risk of suffering lumbar injuries, says study

The International Cricket Council (ICC) Monday said <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/team-india-pays-tribute-to-pulwama-attack-victims-dons-special-army-cap-for-3rd-odi-against-australia-201965">India was granted permission to wear camouflage military caps</a> in the third ODI against Australia as a tribute to the country's armed forces, a gesture which Pakistan has objected to.&nbsp;

In the third ODI in Ranchi on March 8, the Indian team sported military caps as a mark of respect to the CRPF personnel who were killed in the Pulwama terror attack and donated its match fee to the National Defence Fund.

"The BCCI sought permission from the ICC to wear the caps as part of a fundraising drive and in memory of fallen soldiers who have died, which was granted," ICC's General Manager Strategic Communications Claire Furlong said in a statement.

The Pakistan Cricket Board had sent a strongly-worded letter to the ICC, calling for action against India for wearing the caps.

"They took permission from ICC for some other purpose and used it to do something else, which is not acceptable," PCB Chairman Ehsan Mani said on Sunday in Karachi.

Last month, the BCCI had asked the ICC to "sever ties with countries from which terrorism emanates" following the Pulwama attack in which 40 CRPF jawans were killed. The responsibility of the attack was taken by Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed.&nbsp;

The International Cricket Council (ICC) Monday said India was granted permission to wear camouflage military caps in the third ODI against Australia as a tribute to the country's armed forces, a gesture which Pakistan has objected to.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) Monday said India was granted permission to wear camouflage military caps in the third ODI against Australia as a tribute to the country's armed forces, a gesture which Pakistan has objected to. In the third ODI in Ranchi on March 8, the Indian team sported military caps as a mark of respect to the CRPF personnel who were killed in the Pulwama terror attack and donated its match fee to the National Defence Fund. "The BCCI sought permission from the ICC to wear the caps as part of a fundraising drive and in memory of fallen soldiers who have died, which was granted," ICC's General Manager Strategic Communications Claire Furlong said in a statement. The Pakistan Cricket Board had sent a strongly-worded letter to the ICC, calling for action against India for wearing the caps. "They took permission from ICC for some other purpose and used it to do something else, which is not acceptable," PCB Chairman Ehsan Mani said on Sunday in Karachi. Last month, the BCCI had asked the ICC to "sever ties with countries from which terrorism emanates" following the Pulwama attack in which 40 CRPF jawans were killed. The responsibility of the attack was taken by Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed.

India was given permission to wear camouflage caps in memory of fallen soldiers: ICC

England will go into this year's World Cup as the favourites. This can be considered a remarkable change in fortunes considering their performance in the previous two World Cups in 2011 and 2015.

Since the World Cup 2015, England have won 14 bilateral series out of 20.

England's batting approach was considered traditional since the Cricket World Cup 2015, as they struggled with posting big scores on the board playing with an old fashioned approach.

But since, the appointment of Trevor Bayliss as the head coach, England went through a tremendous turn-around changing their batting approach, playing attacking cricket from the first ball of the match.

England management who has been previously guilty of choosing Test players for the ODI's and not picking up the right players for the format changed their approach and started picking up specialists for the ODI format.

Jason Roy, Alex Hales, Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler are all familiar names in the ODI format and their approach to the game has benefitted the England team. These players start going after the bowlers from the first ball putting the opponent under pressure.

There have been five occasions when a team has posted more than 400 runs on the board since World Cup 2015, and out of those five, four have been posted by England.

It was in the last year that England recorded the highest ever ODI score of 481 runs against Australia at Trent Bridge.

England's bowlers Liam Plunkett, David Willey, Adil Rashid have also put in game-changing performances with the ball for the team allowing the team to prosper in all kind of pitches and conditions.

The captain Eoin Morgan who was the part of Cricket World Cup 2015 debacle in which the team suffered a loss against Bangladesh to get themselves knocked out, has seen a significant change in the team.

He along with Trevor Bayliss bought a breath of fresh air into the team by picking up specialists and allowing the team to prosper by giving them full freedom. The captain has always been seen promoting giving freedom to players to express themselves.

Morgan became the highest scorer for England in the ODI format as well.

England with this attacking approach are the prime favourites for the World Cup, but the team is also susceptible to bouncy tracks, which was evident in the last ODI of the five-match series against Windies.

The team has been prone to batting collapses, which the management knows they need to rectify before the World Cup.

In Champions trophy 2017, England suffered a heavy collapse in the semi-final against Pakistan resulting in their knockout from the tournament. They were also criticised for playing with their traditional approach in an important clash which probably cost them the match.

The World Cup will be played in England so home-pressure will pretty much be there, but the team has the best chance of winning the World Cup for the first time in their history.

England opens their World Cup campaign against South Africa on May 30.&nbsp;

England will go into this year's World Cup as the favourites. This can be considered a remarkable change in fortunes considering their performance in the previous two World Cups in 2011 and 2015.

England will go into this year's World Cup as the favourites. This can be considered a remarkable change in fortunes considering their performance in the previous two World Cups in 2011 and 2015. Since the World Cup 2015, England have won 14 bilateral series out of 20. England's batting approach was considered traditional since the Cricket World Cup 2015, as they struggled with posting big scores on the board playing with an old fashioned approach. But since, the appointment of Trevor Bayliss as the head coach, England went through a tremendous turn-around changing their batting approach, playing attacking cricket from the first ball of the match. England management who has been previously guilty of choosing Test players for the ODI's and not picking up the right players for the format changed their approach and started picking up specialists for the ODI format. Jason Roy, Alex Hales, Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler are all familiar names in the ODI format and their approach to the game has benefitted the England team. These players start going after the bowlers from the first ball putting the opponent under pressure. There have been five occasions when a team has posted more than 400 runs on the board since World Cup 2015, and out of those five, four have been posted by England. It was in the last year that England recorded the highest ever ODI score of 481 runs against Australia at Trent Bridge. England's bowlers Liam Plunkett, David Willey, Adil Rashid have also put in game-changing performances with the ball for the team allowing the team to prosper in all kind of pitches and conditions. The captain Eoin Morgan who was the part of Cricket World Cup 2015 debacle in which the team suffered a loss against Bangladesh to get themselves knocked out, has seen a significant change in the team. He along with Trevor Bayliss bought a breath of fresh air into the team by picking up specialists and allowing the team to prosper by giving them full freedom. The captain has always been seen promoting giving freedom to players to express themselves. Morgan became the highest scorer for England in the ODI format as well. England with this attacking approach are the prime favourites for the World Cup, but the team is also susceptible to bouncy tracks, which was evident in the last ODI of the five-match series against Windies. The team has been prone to batting collapses, which the management knows they need to rectify before the World Cup. In Champions trophy 2017, England suffered a heavy collapse in the semi-final against Pakistan resulting in their knockout from the tournament. They were also criticised for playing with their traditional approach in an important clash which probably cost them the match. The World Cup will be played in England so home-pressure will pretty much be there, but the team has the best chance of winning the World Cup for the first time in their history. England opens their World Cup campaign against South Africa on May 30.

England's renaissance in ODI's makes them favourites for the 2019 World Cup

The&nbsp;International Cricket Council has insisted that it will not interfere in the conduct of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-premier-league-2019-schedule-squad-time-and-venue-198297">Indian Premier League</a> (IPL).&nbsp;

The global cricket governing body further added that it&nbsp;plans to use the Indian domestic league as a benchmark to draft regulations for leagues across the world.&nbsp;

ICC's&nbsp;Chief Executive David Richardson said in a statement,&nbsp;"Reports in the Indian media that the ICC is somehow seeking to interfere in or dictate to the IPL are wide off the mark. That is not the case."&nbsp;

Earlier a newspaper report had claimed that&nbsp;ICC wants to have a say in IPL policy matters in an attempt to gain control over the league.&nbsp;

"As the Chief Executives' Committee and the ICC Board were advised over the past few days, the development of the Regulations has been led by the Working Group, on behalf of its Members, to ensure the long-term health and reputation of the sport internationally and domestically," the statement also read.&nbsp;

"We are fortunate to have some outstanding T20 leagues, including the IPL, which set the gold standard for operations globally and this Working Group has taken into account those standards when developing the draft set of regulations. Our primary objective is to ensure other leagues around the world put in place the same minimum criteria and operate within a consistent framework," Richardson said.

"The Working Group will continue developing the regulations over the coming months," he added.&nbsp;

Richardson praised the successful model of India Premier League.&nbsp;

The ICC, in a recent survey, found out that 95&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;of its professional players play only one T20 league and the regulations, according to sources, would only apply on&nbsp;the remaining&nbsp;five&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;who ply their trade in various leagues.&nbsp;

It comprises mainly the West Indies players, who have picked T20 leagues over playing for the Caribbean team.&nbsp;

There is a possibility that there could be a cap of two to three leagues per player but it has not been finalised yet.&nbsp;

The International Cricket Council has insisted that it will not interfere in the conduct of Indian Premier League (IPL). The global cricket governing body further added that it plans to use the Indian domestic league as a benchmark to draft regulations for leagues across the world.

The International Cricket Council has insisted that it will not interfere in the conduct of Indian Premier League (IPL). The global cricket governing body further added that it plans to use the Indian domestic league as a benchmark to draft regulations for leagues across the world. ICC's Chief Executive David Richardson said in a statement, "Reports in the Indian media that the ICC is somehow seeking to interfere in or dictate to the IPL are wide off the mark. That is not the case." Earlier a newspaper report had claimed that ICC wants to have a say in IPL policy matters in an attempt to gain control over the league. "As the Chief Executives' Committee and the ICC Board were advised over the past few days, the development of the Regulations has been led by the Working Group, on behalf of its Members, to ensure the long-term health and reputation of the sport internationally and domestically," the statement also read. "We are fortunate to have some outstanding T20 leagues, including the IPL, which set the gold standard for operations globally and this Working Group has taken into account those standards when developing the draft set of regulations. Our primary objective is to ensure other leagues around the world put in place the same minimum criteria and operate within a consistent framework," Richardson said. "The Working Group will continue developing the regulations over the coming months," he added. Richardson praised the successful model of India Premier League. The ICC, in a recent survey, found out that 95 per cent of its professional players play only one T20 league and the regulations, according to sources, would only apply on the remaining five per cent who ply their trade in various leagues. It comprises mainly the West Indies players, who have picked T20 leagues over playing for the Caribbean team. There is a possibility that there could be a cap of two to three leagues per player but it has not been finalised yet.

We won't interfere in Indian Premier League: ICC

The Indian cricket board's acting secretary Amitabh Choudhary Monday washed his hands off the BCCI letter that urged the ICC and its member nations to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/severing-cricketing-ties-with-nations-not-our-domain-icc-tells-bcci-200879">sever ties with countries which harbour terror</a>, side-stepping queries on whether it was prudent to raise the issue.

The BCCI's request was turned down by the International Cricket Council (ICC), saying it has no role to play in matters like these.&nbsp;

Choudhary, asked at the press conference&nbsp;whether it was a mistake not to have named Pakistan specifically in the letter, said," I have not written the letter."

The letter to the ICC, in the aftermath of the deadly terror attack in Pulwama that killed more than 40 CRPF personnel and for which the Pakistan-based Jaish-E-Mohammed took responsibility, was framed by BCCI CEO Rahul Johri in consultation with the Committee of Administrators (CoA).

"The chairman of the ICC (Shashank Manohar) has made a statement to address the issue and he has simply said that it is a matter which is beyond ICC's domain," said Choudhary.

"I would like to put everything to rest that there is no difference of opinion. There was a written communication by the BCCI CEO with the ICC. There were two points in that communication the first point related to the security and well being of the players and of the fans also," he said when asked whether the BCCI had erred in making this proposal.

Citing contents of the letter, Choudhary said the BCCI's primary concern ahead of the World Cup is players' security.

"The second matter related to suggesting that India and other members of the ICC take no part with teams which comes from areas where certain phenomenon emanate from, but the letter didn't mention which areas.

"To which the ICC chairman, after discussing it with the Board which is the onlypolicy-makingg body of the ICC, stated that it is not within the domain of the ICC to make a comment or make a decision.

"The BCCI's concerns were, as I said, primarily, according to the letter, security concerns relating to players and fans which the ICC has wholeheartedly agreed to address. And the ECB representative Colin Graves was of the same view," he added.

The acting secretary said resolving the conflict between BCCI and the World Anti Doping Agency was an urgent matter to ensure that the ICC is not declared non-compliant by WADA.

"That is an issue. The world body (WADA) has been in dialogue with ICC for some time and the issue is that all participating nations in the ICC must align with the national testing authority.

"The only member of the ICC which has so far resisted it, and for reasons well known, is the BCCI and therefore there is a slight urgency on that matter.

The ICC has been informed and the ICC chairman is of the view that he will soon have a dialogue with the BCCI itself considering the urgency of the matter lest the ICC be declared non-compliant."

He said the selectors are working on the workload schedule of key Indian ODI players in view of the World Cup that immediately follows IPL from May 30.

"At this stage, it is not proper to divulge but we also have the selectors working on this," he said when asked whether the IPL franchises had agreed to the plan in principle.

The issue of advancing the IPL match timings are also a work in progress, he said.

IPL CEO, Hemang Amin, said the issue was under evaluation.

"Last year we had advanced the timings for the playoffs to start at 7pm. We are still considering whether to advance it a bit or keep it at 8pm because it also affects the afternoon game. For the last so many years we have been playing 12 to 15 afternoon games so it impacts that.

"The players' well being will have to be considered if we are advancing it because if we advance the 8pm game to earlier then we have to advance the afternoon game as well. Hopefully, within a week or so we will announce the timings once we get the balanced schedule ready," said Amin.

The Indian cricket board's acting secretary Amitabh Choudhary Monday washed his hands off the BCCI letter that urged the ICC and its member nations to sever ties with countries which harbour terror, side-stepping queries on whether it was prudent to raise the issue.

The Indian cricket board's acting secretary Amitabh Choudhary Monday washed his hands off the BCCI letter that urged the ICC and its member nations to sever ties with countries which harbour terror, side-stepping queries on whether it was prudent to raise the issue. The BCCI's request was turned down by the International Cricket Council (ICC), saying it has no role to play in matters like these. Choudhary, asked at the press conference whether it was a mistake not to have named Pakistan specifically in the letter, said," I have not written the letter." The letter to the ICC, in the aftermath of the deadly terror attack in Pulwama that killed more than 40 CRPF personnel and for which the Pakistan-based Jaish-E-Mohammed took responsibility, was framed by BCCI CEO Rahul Johri in consultation with the Committee of Administrators (CoA). "The chairman of the ICC (Shashank Manohar) has made a statement to address the issue and he has simply said that it is a matter which is beyond ICC's domain," said Choudhary. "I would like to put everything to rest that there is no difference of opinion. There was a written communication by the BCCI CEO with the ICC. There were two points in that communication the first point related to the security and well being of the players and of the fans also," he said when asked whether the BCCI had erred in making this proposal. Citing contents of the letter, Choudhary said the BCCI's primary concern ahead of the World Cup is players' security. "The second matter related to suggesting that India and other members of the ICC take no part with teams which comes from areas where certain phenomenon emanate from, but the letter didn't mention which areas. "To which the ICC chairman, after discussing it with the Board which is the onlypolicy-makingg body of the ICC, stated that it is not within the domain of the ICC to make a comment or make a decision. "The BCCI's concerns were, as I said, primarily, according to the letter, security concerns relating to players and fans which the ICC has wholeheartedly agreed to address. And the ECB representative Colin Graves was of the same view," he added. The acting secretary said resolving the conflict between BCCI and the World Anti Doping Agency was an urgent matter to ensure that the ICC is not declared non-compliant by WADA. "That is an issue. The world body (WADA) has been in dialogue with ICC for some time and the issue is that all participating nations in the ICC must align with the national testing authority. "The only member of the ICC which has so far resisted it, and for reasons well known, is the BCCI and therefore there is a slight urgency on that matter. The ICC has been informed and the ICC chairman is of the view that he will soon have a dialogue with the BCCI itself considering the urgency of the matter lest the ICC be declared non-compliant." He said the selectors are working on the workload schedule of key Indian ODI players in view of the World Cup that immediately follows IPL from May 30. "At this stage, it is not proper to divulge but we also have the selectors working on this," he said when asked whether the IPL franchises had agreed to the plan in principle. The issue of advancing the IPL match timings are also a work in progress, he said. IPL CEO, Hemang Amin, said the issue was under evaluation. "Last year we had advanced the timings for the playoffs to start at 7pm. We are still considering whether to advance it a bit or keep it at 8pm because it also affects the afternoon game. For the last so many years we have been playing 12 to 15 afternoon games so it impacts that. "The players' well being will have to be considered if we are advancing it because if we advance the 8pm game to earlier then we have to advance the afternoon game as well. Hopefully, within a week or so we will announce the timings once we get the balanced schedule ready," said Amin.

I didn't write that letter: Amitabh Choudhary on BCCI missive to ICC

Board Of Control For Cricket in India's (BCCI) secretary Amitabh Chaudhry on Monday told that the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/severing-cricketing-ties-with-nations-not-our-domain-icc-tells-bcci-200879">International Cricket Council (ICC)&nbsp;has been in constant touch </a>with the BCCI and that the ICC has conveyed to them that boycotting any country from where terror emanates is not within the domain of the ICC.

"ICC Chairman after discussing with the with the board has conveyed to us that boycotting any country from where terror emanates is not within the domain of ICC," Amitabh Chaudhry told reporters.

BCCI had previously written a letter to the ICC raising two concerns, one was of security of the players and fans.

The second matter was related to suggesting India and other members take no part with teams which come from areas where terror emanates from.

There has been a huge outcry in the country urging India not to play against Pakistan in the World Cup after a terror attack in Kashmir`s Pulwama on February 14."The main concern raised by us was of security of players and the fans which the ICC has decided to look after.

The ECB representative Colin graves also said the same view," Chaudhry added.&nbsp;When questioned about India`s World Cup squad, the secretary said that the deadline will be followed by the management to name the squad.

"Selection of players is of paramount importance and we will follow the ICC deadline for naming the players," he said.&nbsp;India is scheduled to play against Pakistan in a World Cup group stage match on June 16.&nbsp;

Board Of Control For Cricket in India's (BCCI) secretary Amitabh Chaudhry on Monday told that the International Cricket Council (ICC) has been in constant touch with the BCCI and that the ICC has conveyed to them that boycotting any country from where terror emanates is not within the domain of the ICC.

Board Of Control For Cricket in India's (BCCI) secretary Amitabh Chaudhry on Monday told that the International Cricket Council (ICC) has been in constant touch with the BCCI and that the ICC has conveyed to them that boycotting any country from where terror emanates is not within the domain of the ICC. "ICC Chairman after discussing with the with the board has conveyed to us that boycotting any country from where terror emanates is not within the domain of ICC," Amitabh Chaudhry told reporters. BCCI had previously written a letter to the ICC raising two concerns, one was of security of the players and fans. The second matter was related to suggesting India and other members take no part with teams which come from areas where terror emanates from. There has been a huge outcry in the country urging India not to play against Pakistan in the World Cup after a terror attack in Kashmir`s Pulwama on February 14."The main concern raised by us was of security of players and the fans which the ICC has decided to look after. The ECB representative Colin graves also said the same view," Chaudhry added. When questioned about India`s World Cup squad, the secretary said that the deadline will be followed by the management to name the squad. "Selection of players is of paramount importance and we will follow the ICC deadline for naming the players," he said. India is scheduled to play against Pakistan in a World Cup group stage match on June 16.

ICC in constant touch with us: BCCI

The Indian cricket board has been asked by the ICC to bear a tax liability to the tune of USD 21 million (Rs 150 crore) for conducting future global events like the 2021 World T20 and 2023 ODI World Cup.

The BCCI representatives have apparently asked for time till the completion of general elections, which has been granted by the parent body.

The International Cricket Council gets tax exemption from member nations for conducting global events but it didn't get any for the 2016 World T20 as Indian tax laws don't allow any such leeway.

Incidentally, non-tax exemption was one of the major reasons why the Formula One race was pulled out of India.

The issue has persisted between the global body and its richest member board and also came up for discussion at the recent ICC quarterly meeting.

It has been learnt that ICC chairman Shashank Manohar has told the BCCI that as per its rules, the Indian board will have to pay the tax liability in case it is not able to get tax exemption.

"Mr Manohar has categorically said that tax exemption is something BCCI needs to figure out," a BCCI official told PTI on conditions of anonymity.

"Since this is about tax laws and it can change with time, the BCCI thinks it's prudent to wait till the general elections get over and take it from there," he said.

There is a school of thought in the BCCI that they would ask the various sponsors to share the tax burden, which will be beneficial for all the parties.

"There is a clause in the contract, where the sponsors may have to carry the burden of tax in case the hosting nation doesn't have tax exemption laws. So

BCCI will be within their rights to ask the various sponsors to share the burden," the official said.

When CoA chief Vinod Rai was asked about the issue, he said, "Tax laws are complicated. I will only comment on the issue once I am aware of all the details. However, I don't think it's an issue that can't be sorted out."

The Indian cricket board has been asked by the ICC to bear a tax liability to the tune of USD 21 million (Rs 150 crore) for conducting future global events like the 2021 World T20 and 2023 ODI World Cup.

The Indian cricket board has been asked by the ICC to bear a tax liability to the tune of USD 21 million (Rs 150 crore) for conducting future global events like the 2021 World T20 and 2023 ODI World Cup. The BCCI representatives have apparently asked for time till the completion of general elections, which has been granted by the parent body. The International Cricket Council gets tax exemption from member nations for conducting global events but it didn't get any for the 2016 World T20 as Indian tax laws don't allow any such leeway. Incidentally, non-tax exemption was one of the major reasons why the Formula One race was pulled out of India. The issue has persisted between the global body and its richest member board and also came up for discussion at the recent ICC quarterly meeting. It has been learnt that ICC chairman Shashank Manohar has told the BCCI that as per its rules, the Indian board will have to pay the tax liability in case it is not able to get tax exemption. "Mr Manohar has categorically said that tax exemption is something BCCI needs to figure out," a BCCI official told PTI on conditions of anonymity. "Since this is about tax laws and it can change with time, the BCCI thinks it's prudent to wait till the general elections get over and take it from there," he said. There is a school of thought in the BCCI that they would ask the various sponsors to share the tax burden, which will be beneficial for all the parties. "There is a clause in the contract, where the sponsors may have to carry the burden of tax in case the hosting nation doesn't have tax exemption laws. So BCCI will be within their rights to ask the various sponsors to share the burden," the official said. When CoA chief Vinod Rai was asked about the issue, he said, "Tax laws are complicated. I will only comment on the issue once I am aware of all the details. However, I don't think it's an issue that can't be sorted out."

If there is no tax exemption, BCCI will have to carry burden for global events

The International Cricket Council has turned down the BCCI's request to sever ties with countries from which "terrorism emanates", saying the ICC has no role to play in matters like these.

In the wake of the Pulwama terror attack, in which more than 40 CRPF personnel were killed, the BCCI, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-writes-letter-to-icc-to-express-concerns-over-security-of-indian-players-heading-into-world-cup-199011">in a letter to the ICC</a>, urged the world body and its member nations to sever ties with countries which harbour terror.

"There was no chance that anything like that would have happened. The ICC chairman made it clear that the decision to ostracize a nation is taken at the government level and ICC had no rule. The BCCI knew it all along but still took a chance," a BCCI official told PTI on conditions of anonymity.

The BCCI letter did not make a specific reference to Pakistan, which has been accused of harbouring terrorists by India.&nbsp;

The issue came up during Saturday's ICC board meeting chaired by chairman Shashank Manohar but not much time was spent on it.

The BCCI was represented at the board by acting secretary Amitabh Choudhary.

"So many players from member nations play the Pakistan Super League and they would have never entertained such a request. Yes, security was a concern and it had been duly addressed," the Board official added.

The Indian cricket team is scheduled to play Pakistan in the World Cup on June 16. There have been calls to boycott the clash in the wake of the heightened diplomatic tensions between the two countries following the Pulwama attack.&nbsp;

The demand has been made by some of the biggest names in Indian cricket such as Harbhajan Singh and Sourav Ganguly.

However, the Committee of Administrators (CoA) running Indian cricket has so far not taken any decision on the matter, saying that it will seek the government's view.&nbsp;

The International Cricket Council has turned down the BCCI's request to sever ties with countries from which "terrorism emanates", saying the ICC has no role to play in matters like these.

The International Cricket Council has turned down the BCCI's request to sever ties with countries from which "terrorism emanates", saying the ICC has no role to play in matters like these. In the wake of the Pulwama terror attack, in which more than 40 CRPF personnel were killed, the BCCI, in a letter to the ICC, urged the world body and its member nations to sever ties with countries which harbour terror. "There was no chance that anything like that would have happened. The ICC chairman made it clear that the decision to ostracize a nation is taken at the government level and ICC had no rule. The BCCI knew it all along but still took a chance," a BCCI official told PTI on conditions of anonymity. The BCCI letter did not make a specific reference to Pakistan, which has been accused of harbouring terrorists by India. The issue came up during Saturday's ICC board meeting chaired by chairman Shashank Manohar but not much time was spent on it. The BCCI was represented at the board by acting secretary Amitabh Choudhary. "So many players from member nations play the Pakistan Super League and they would have never entertained such a request. Yes, security was a concern and it had been duly addressed," the Board official added. The Indian cricket team is scheduled to play Pakistan in the World Cup on June 16. There have been calls to boycott the clash in the wake of the heightened diplomatic tensions between the two countries following the Pulwama attack. The demand has been made by some of the biggest names in Indian cricket such as Harbhajan Singh and Sourav Ganguly. However, the Committee of Administrators (CoA) running Indian cricket has so far not taken any decision on the matter, saying that it will seek the government's view.

Severing cricketing ties with nations not our domain: ICC tells BCCI

Cricket's global body, the&nbsp;International Cricket Council, has warned the fans against potential financial scams.&nbsp;

The cricket body stated that there is no competition, lottery or promotion associated with the upcoming men's World Cup which will start from May 30.&nbsp;

In a media release, ICC said that incidents of financial scams have always been reported during global events.&nbsp;

"The ICC stress there is no such competition, lottery or promotion associated with ICC or the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2019 and that any approaches via e-mail in the UK should be reported to Action Fraud online here or by calling 0300 123 2040," ICC said in a release.&nbsp;

"Approaches outside of the UK should be reported to enquiries@icc-cricket.Com. The ICC or CWC19 will never ask for confidential information of this kind from you in an email."&nbsp;

"Illegal scammers contact people, usually via email, claiming that they have won a cash prize via a lottery or competition and requiring the person to share a range of personal information, including their name, age, bank account and passport details. The victim is often asked to pay a fee to obtain the prize money," ICC said.

The ICC also recommended some actions against fraud and noted the online resources which are available for victims of fraud.

Cricket's global body, the International Cricket Council, has warned the fans against potential financial scams. The cricket body stated that there is no competition, lottery or promotion associated with the upcoming men's World Cup which will start from May 30.

Cricket's global body, the International Cricket Council, has warned the fans against potential financial scams. The cricket body stated that there is no competition, lottery or promotion associated with the upcoming men's World Cup which will start from May 30. In a media release, ICC said that incidents of financial scams have always been reported during global events. "The ICC stress there is no such competition, lottery or promotion associated with ICC or the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2019 and that any approaches via e-mail in the UK should be reported to Action Fraud online here or by calling 0300 123 2040," ICC said in a release. "Approaches outside of the UK should be reported to enquiries@icc-cricket.Com. The ICC or CWC19 will never ask for confidential information of this kind from you in an email." "Illegal scammers contact people, usually via email, claiming that they have won a cash prize via a lottery or competition and requiring the person to share a range of personal information, including their name, age, bank account and passport details. The victim is often asked to pay a fee to obtain the prize money," ICC said. The ICC also recommended some actions against fraud and noted the online resources which are available for victims of fraud.

ICC warns cricket fans against financial scams during World Cup

Sanath Jayasuriya Tuesday was banned from all cricket for two years after admitting breaching two counts of the ICC Anti-Corruption Code.

The former Sri Lankan cricketer refused to co-operate with an ongoing ICC investigation into corruption in Sri Lankan cricket.

In addition, he was charged for "obstructing or delaying" the same investigation by "concealing, tampering with or destroying any documentation or other information.&nbsp;

Addressing the media, Alex Marshall, ICC General Manager – ACU said: “This conviction under the Code demonstrates the importance of participants in cricket cooperating with investigations. Compelling participants to cooperate under the Code is a vital weapon in our efforts to rid our sport of corruptors. These rules are essential to maintain the integrity of our sport.

“The amnesty has worked very well and has delivered significant new and important intelligence. This new information has assisted a number of our ongoing investigations and has resulted in some new investigations getting underway.

“I am very grateful to those who participated in the amnesty and as a result of the information shared we now have a much clearer picture of the situation in Sri Lanka and our investigations are continuing,” Marshall added.

Jayasuriya was player of the tournament when Sri Lanka won the World Cup in 1996 and he scored 21 centuries and took 323 wickets in 445 one-day internationals.

He retired from international cricket in 2011, but continued playing Twenty20 matches until 2012 
&nbsp;

Sanath Jayasuriya Tuesday was banned from all cricket for two years after admitting breaching two counts of the ICC Anti-Corruption Code. The former Sri Lankan cricketer refused to co-operate with an ongoing ICC investigation into corruption in Sri Lankan cricket.

Sanath Jayasuriya Tuesday was banned from all cricket for two years after admitting breaching two counts of the ICC Anti-Corruption Code. The former Sri Lankan cricketer refused to co-operate with an ongoing ICC investigation into corruption in Sri Lankan cricket. In addition, he was charged for "obstructing or delaying" the same investigation by "concealing, tampering with or destroying any documentation or other information. Addressing the media, Alex Marshall, ICC General Manager – ACU said: “This conviction under the Code demonstrates the importance of participants in cricket cooperating with investigations. Compelling participants to cooperate under the Code is a vital weapon in our efforts to rid our sport of corruptors. These rules are essential to maintain the integrity of our sport. “The amnesty has worked very well and has delivered significant new and important intelligence. This new information has assisted a number of our ongoing investigations and has resulted in some new investigations getting underway. “I am very grateful to those who participated in the amnesty and as a result of the information shared we now have a much clearer picture of the situation in Sri Lanka and our investigations are continuing,” Marshall added. Jayasuriya was player of the tournament when Sri Lanka won the World Cup in 1996 and he scored 21 centuries and took 323 wickets in 445 one-day internationals. He retired from international cricket in 2011, but continued playing Twenty20 matches until 2012

Sanath Jayasuriya guilty of breaching anti-corruption code, banned for 2 years by ICC

The International Cricket Council (ICC) will clear India's "doubts" about security at the upcoming World Cup but the world body is unlikely to even discuss a possible boycott of Pakistan when its Chief Executives Committee (CEC) meets here on Wednesday.&nbsp;

More than 40 CRPF personnel were killed in the Pulwama terror attack which led to demands that India should boycott the Pakistan game in the World Cup in Manchester on June 16.

Responding to the outrage, the Committee of Administrators running Indian cricket wrote a letter to the ICC urging it boycott countries from where "terrorism emanates" but did not specifically name Pakistan.&nbsp;

The quarterly meeting of the ICC will start in Dubai on Wednesday with the Chief Executives (CEC) meeting where BCCI CEO Rahul Johri's letter will be tabled and the matter will be discussed.

The BCCI had expressed its concern about the safety of the players and officials during the World Cup which starts May 30 in England.&nbsp;

"The ICC will provide all the details of the security arrangements made for the World Cup. It will be same for all the participating nations and England and Wales Cricket

Board have always provided top-notch arrangements," a senior BCCI official privy to the ICC's functioning told PTI on conditions of anonymity.&nbsp;

"But since there has been an apprehension, the doubts will be cleared," the official added.

However, it is learnt that ICC is unlikely to even discuss the possibility of boycotting Pakistan as it is not a "feasible option".

"The ICC is in no position to ask any cricket board to sever ties with another member nation. It doesn't have the right to do so. This is a diplomatic issue which is dealt with at the government level.

"A member board can always discuss the issue if they want but one can be rest assured that nothing will happen," said the official, who has been a part of many ICC meetings.

Opinion has been divided on the calls for boycott with former India captain Sourav Ganguly and senior off-spinner Harbhajan Singh wanting the June 16 match to be called off.

However, they haven't clarified what happens if Pakistan make it to the semifinals or the final.

On the other hand, two of the biggest names in Indian cricket, Sachin Tendulkar and Sunil Gavaskar, want India to beat Pakistan as a walkover would mean giving two points on a platter to the arch-rivals.

Skipper Virat Kohli and coach Ravi Shastri have maintained that they will "abide by whatever decision the government takes."&nbsp;

The International Cricket Council (ICC) will clear India's "doubts" about security at the upcoming World Cup but the world body is unlikely to even discuss a possible boycott of Pakistan when its Chief Executives Committee (CEC) meets here on Wednesday.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) will clear India's "doubts" about security at the upcoming World Cup but the world body is unlikely to even discuss a possible boycott of Pakistan when its Chief Executives Committee (CEC) meets here on Wednesday. More than 40 CRPF personnel were killed in the Pulwama terror attack which led to demands that India should boycott the Pakistan game in the World Cup in Manchester on June 16. Responding to the outrage, the Committee of Administrators running Indian cricket wrote a letter to the ICC urging it boycott countries from where "terrorism emanates" but did not specifically name Pakistan. The quarterly meeting of the ICC will start in Dubai on Wednesday with the Chief Executives (CEC) meeting where BCCI CEO Rahul Johri's letter will be tabled and the matter will be discussed. The BCCI had expressed its concern about the safety of the players and officials during the World Cup which starts May 30 in England. "The ICC will provide all the details of the security arrangements made for the World Cup. It will be same for all the participating nations and England and Wales Cricket Board have always provided top-notch arrangements," a senior BCCI official privy to the ICC's functioning told PTI on conditions of anonymity. "But since there has been an apprehension, the doubts will be cleared," the official added. However, it is learnt that ICC is unlikely to even discuss the possibility of boycotting Pakistan as it is not a "feasible option". "The ICC is in no position to ask any cricket board to sever ties with another member nation. It doesn't have the right to do so. This is a diplomatic issue which is dealt with at the government level. "A member board can always discuss the issue if they want but one can be rest assured that nothing will happen," said the official, who has been a part of many ICC meetings. Opinion has been divided on the calls for boycott with former India captain Sourav Ganguly and senior off-spinner Harbhajan Singh wanting the June 16 match to be called off. However, they haven't clarified what happens if Pakistan make it to the semifinals or the final. On the other hand, two of the biggest names in Indian cricket, Sachin Tendulkar and Sunil Gavaskar, want India to beat Pakistan as a walkover would mean giving two points on a platter to the arch-rivals. Skipper Virat Kohli and coach Ravi Shastri have maintained that they will "abide by whatever decision the government takes."

CEC meet: ICC unlikely to discuss boycott of Pakistan from 2019 World Cup

The Indian team will be aiming to lock in the last couple of available slots in their England-bound World Cup squad when they square off with familiar foes Australia in a limited overs series starting with the first T20 here Sunday.&nbsp;

The seven-match series comprising two T20 Internationals and five ODIs against a struggling Australian side will be India's last international assignment before the mega event starting May 30 in England and Wales.

With all but two places sealed, Virat Kohli and Ravi Shastri will also treat these two T20 games as an extended audition for the World Cup hopefuls, who are still on the waiting list.

Skipper Kohli is back after a well-deserved three-week break and will be keeping a keen eye on the likes of Rishabh Pant and Vijay Shankar, two players who are strongly tipped to make the elite list.

Having edged out Dinesh Karthik in the ODI side in the race to the World Cup, Pant will get a few more chances to make a strong case for himself.

For Vijay Shankar, it will be a great opportunity to make his case even stronger in the absence of Hardik Pandya, who is out with his recurring lower back injury.

Shankar has shown that he could be explosive with the bat and the question will be how effective he can be with the ball.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-2019-schedule-squad-time-and-venue-197778">India vs Australia 2019: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue</a>

No one more than Dinesh Karthik will be more keen to make a statement as these two games will effectively be his last chance as he has already been dropped from the ODIs against Australia.

The Tamil Nadu veteran drew a lot of flak after he refused a single when Krunal Pandya was on a rampage at the other end in the series deciding T20 game against New Zealand which India lost by 4 runs.

With the return of India's no 1 pacer Jasprit Bumrah, the bowling department that distinctly lacked sting against New Zealand, will be bolstered.

Bumrah is two shy of his personal tally of 50 wickets in T20I cricket, an achievement only in possession of the discarded Ravichandran Ashwin.

While rookie leg-break bowler Mayank Markande is in the squad, India in all likelihood will go with the tested pair of Yuzvendra Chahal and Krunal Pandya, who have done reasonably well for the home team in recent times.&nbsp;

However, the shortest format is exactly not the one where India have been very consistent. A recent 1-2 series defeat against New Zealand is a testimony.&nbsp;

India may be ahead 11-6 on head-to-head in T20s but they have drawn 1-1 their last two series against Australia -- at home (2017) and away (2018) -- with rain playing spoilsport.

It was way back in 2016 when India under MS Dhoni last won against Australia, a 3-0 clean sweep Down Under as this time Kohli's men will look to settle the scores with a 2-0.&nbsp;

But more than that the series will be a dress rehearsal for the World Cup as Kohli would look like to make a final assessment before heading to World Cup in May.

Kohli will look to straightway be back among the runs after a sterling 2018 where he ended the year with an astounding 2735 runs from 38 matches across formats.

He scored 1202 runs in ODIs at a jaw-dropping average of 133.55 in 14 innings and the fact that he converted his scores into six hundreds and three fifties speaks volumes of his batsmanship.&nbsp;

Kohli averages 61 from 13 T20I innings against Australia with five half-centuries in those games.

The Aaron Finch-led side may not have played T20Is since their last series against India three months back, but they are fresh from their extended Big Bash League with six players including the skipper featuring in the all-Melbourne final on February 17.

Player of the Tournament D'Arcy Short played 15 BBL games this season for Hobart Hurricanes scoring 637 runs at 53.08 average (140.61 strike rate).&nbsp;

He was followed by competition leading wicket-taker Kane Richardson who topped the bowling aggregate with 24 at 17.70 (economy rate 7.75).&nbsp;

The dynamic left-handed opener Short will look to correct his stats on the turning pitches and relaunch his career giving them a good start.&nbsp;

The Indian team will be aiming to lock in the last couple of available slots in their England-bound World Cup squad when they square off with familiar foes Australia in a limited overs series starting with the first T20 here Sunday.

The Indian team will be aiming to lock in the last couple of available slots in their England-bound World Cup squad when they square off with familiar foes Australia in a limited overs series starting with the first T20 here Sunday. The seven-match series comprising two T20 Internationals and five ODIs against a struggling Australian side will be India's last international assignment before the mega event starting May 30 in England and Wales. With all but two places sealed, Virat Kohli and Ravi Shastri will also treat these two T20 games as an extended audition for the World Cup hopefuls, who are still on the waiting list. Skipper Kohli is back after a well-deserved three-week break and will be keeping a keen eye on the likes of Rishabh Pant and Vijay Shankar, two players who are strongly tipped to make the elite list. Having edged out Dinesh Karthik in the ODI side in the race to the World Cup, Pant will get a few more chances to make a strong case for himself. For Vijay Shankar, it will be a great opportunity to make his case even stronger in the absence of Hardik Pandya, who is out with his recurring lower back injury. Shankar has shown that he could be explosive with the bat and the question will be how effective he can be with the ball. Also Read: India vs Australia 2019: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue No one more than Dinesh Karthik will be more keen to make a statement as these two games will effectively be his last chance as he has already been dropped from the ODIs against Australia. The Tamil Nadu veteran drew a lot of flak after he refused a single when Krunal Pandya was on a rampage at the other end in the series deciding T20 game against New Zealand which India lost by 4 runs. With the return of India's no 1 pacer Jasprit Bumrah, the bowling department that distinctly lacked sting against New Zealand, will be bolstered. Bumrah is two shy of his personal tally of 50 wickets in T20I cricket, an achievement only in possession of the discarded Ravichandran Ashwin. While rookie leg-break bowler Mayank Markande is in the squad, India in all likelihood will go with the tested pair of Yuzvendra Chahal and Krunal Pandya, who have done reasonably well for the home team in recent times. However, the shortest format is exactly not the one where India have been very consistent. A recent 1-2 series defeat against New Zealand is a testimony. India may be ahead 11-6 on head-to-head in T20s but they have drawn 1-1 their last two series against Australia -- at home (2017) and away (2018) -- with rain playing spoilsport. It was way back in 2016 when India under MS Dhoni last won against Australia, a 3-0 clean sweep Down Under as this time Kohli's men will look to settle the scores with a 2-0. But more than that the series will be a dress rehearsal for the World Cup as Kohli would look like to make a final assessment before heading to World Cup in May. Kohli will look to straightway be back among the runs after a sterling 2018 where he ended the year with an astounding 2735 runs from 38 matches across formats. He scored 1202 runs in ODIs at a jaw-dropping average of 133.55 in 14 innings and the fact that he converted his scores into six hundreds and three fifties speaks volumes of his batsmanship. Kohli averages 61 from 13 T20I innings against Australia with five half-centuries in those games. The Aaron Finch-led side may not have played T20Is since their last series against India three months back, but they are fresh from their extended Big Bash League with six players including the skipper featuring in the all-Melbourne final on February 17. Player of the Tournament D'Arcy Short played 15 BBL games this season for Hobart Hurricanes scoring 637 runs at 53.08 average (140.61 strike rate). He was followed by competition leading wicket-taker Kane Richardson who topped the bowling aggregate with 24 at 17.70 (economy rate 7.75). The dynamic left-handed opener Short will look to correct his stats on the turning pitches and relaunch his career giving them a good start.

INDvsAUS, 1st T20I: Keeping World Cup in mind, India & Australia set to lock horns

The skipper of Indian cricket team Virat Kohli has expressed sincere condolences to the families of martyred Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel, who <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=pulwama">lost their lives in a terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama</a> on February 14.&nbsp;

Lately, in the wake of the ghastly terror, there have been calls for a complete cricketing boycott against Pakistan.&nbsp;

While speaking on the eve of a bilateral series against Australia, Kohli&nbsp;addressed the spiralling issue. He said, "Our stand is simple. We stick by what the nation wants to do and what the BCCI decides to do and that is basically our opinion."&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/would-hate-to-give-two-points-to-pakistan-in-world-cup-sachin-tendulkar-198983">Sachin Tendulkar's comment on the Indo-Pak World Cup clash</a>

"Whatever the government and the board decide, we will eventually go by that and will respect that. So that is our stand on this particular issue," Kohli added.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Virat Kohli on Ind Vs Pak in World Cup says, "Our sincere condolences to the families of CRPF soldiers who lost their lives in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PulwamaAttack?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PulwamaAttack</a>. We stand by what the nation wants to do and what the BCCI decides to do." <a href="https://t.co/gjyJ9qDxts">pic.twitter.com/gjyJ9qDxts</a>
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Kohli's stand is pretty similar to what chief coach Ravi Shastri echoed in an interview to a television channel where he said that the team will "accept whatever decision that the government takes."

The chief of Supreme Court-appointed Committee of Administrators (CoA) Vinod Rai decided against taking any stand on the match but urged the ICC and other nations to "sever ties" with countries from where "terrorism emanates".&nbsp;

India are scheduled to play Pakistan on June 16 during the World Cup.&nbsp;

The skipper of Indian cricket team Virat Kohli has expressed sincere condolences to the families of martyred Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel, who lost their lives in a terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama on February 14.

The skipper of Indian cricket team Virat Kohli has expressed sincere condolences to the families of martyred Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel, who lost their lives in a terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama on February 14. Lately, in the wake of the ghastly terror, there have been calls for a complete cricketing boycott against Pakistan. While speaking on the eve of a bilateral series against Australia, Kohli addressed the spiralling issue. He said, "Our stand is simple. We stick by what the nation wants to do and what the BCCI decides to do and that is basically our opinion." Also Read: Sachin Tendulkar's comment on the Indo-Pak World Cup clash "Whatever the government and the board decide, we will eventually go by that and will respect that. So that is our stand on this particular issue," Kohli added. #WATCH Virat Kohli on Ind Vs Pak in World Cup says, "Our sincere condolences to the families of CRPF soldiers who lost their lives in #PulwamaAttack. We stand by what the nation wants to do and what the BCCI decides to do." pic.twitter.com/gjyJ9qDxts — ANI (@ANI) February 23, 2019 × Kohli's stand is pretty similar to what chief coach Ravi Shastri echoed in an interview to a television channel where he said that the team will "accept whatever decision that the government takes." The chief of Supreme Court-appointed Committee of Administrators (CoA) Vinod Rai decided against taking any stand on the match but urged the ICC and other nations to "sever ties" with countries from where "terrorism emanates". India are scheduled to play Pakistan on June 16 during the World Cup.

Virat Kohli on Indo-Pak World Cup game: We will respect government decision

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has written a letter to cricket's global governing body International Cricket Council (ICC) to express concerns over the security of Indian players heading into the World Cup.&nbsp;

In the wake of a terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama that killed over 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel, there have been calls for a complete cricketing boycott against Pakistan.&nbsp;

Also Read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/would-hate-to-give-two-points-to-pakistan-in-world-cup-sachin-tendulkar-198983">Sachin Tendulkar's comment on the Indo-Pak World Cup clash</a>

The chief of Supreme Court-appointed Committee of Administrators (CoA) Vinod Rai decided against taking any stand on the match but urged the ICC and other nations to "sever ties" with countries from where "terrorism emanates".&nbsp;

India are scheduled to play Pakistan on June 16 during the World Cup.&nbsp;

The letter read:

"BCCI fears for the safety and security of players and match officials participating in upcoming ICC events including the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019.&nbsp;

Most countries from which the members of the ICC hail (including United Kingdom) have strongly condemned this terrorist attack and expressed solidarity with India.&nbsp;

The BCCI trusts that the ICC and ECB will ensure that the most robust security is provided to players, match officials and fans of Indian cricket for the upcoming World Cup.&nbsp;

The BCCI also wishes to express its concerns over the safety and security of the fans of Indian cricket at the upcoming ICC World Cup 2019. 

The BCCI trust the ICC and ECB will ensure that most robust security is provided to players, match officials and fans of Indian cricket for the upcoming World Cup."

It was a foregone conclusion that CoA would not take any decision on the matter as the ICC can't ban Pakistan as per rules.

It is understood that BCCI officials are also concerned that such a stand might cost them the hosting rights of the 2021 Champions Trophy and the 2023 World Cup.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has written a letter to cricket's global governing body International Cricket Council (ICC) to express concerns over the security of Indian players heading into the World Cup.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has written a letter to cricket's global governing body International Cricket Council (ICC) to express concerns over the security of Indian players heading into the World Cup. In the wake of a terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama that killed over 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel, there have been calls for a complete cricketing boycott against Pakistan. Also Read: Sachin Tendulkar's comment on the Indo-Pak World Cup clash The chief of Supreme Court-appointed Committee of Administrators (CoA) Vinod Rai decided against taking any stand on the match but urged the ICC and other nations to "sever ties" with countries from where "terrorism emanates". India are scheduled to play Pakistan on June 16 during the World Cup. The letter read: "BCCI fears for the safety and security of players and match officials participating in upcoming ICC events including the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019. Most countries from which the members of the ICC hail (including United Kingdom) have strongly condemned this terrorist attack and expressed solidarity with India. The BCCI trusts that the ICC and ECB will ensure that the most robust security is provided to players, match officials and fans of Indian cricket for the upcoming World Cup. The BCCI also wishes to express its concerns over the safety and security of the fans of Indian cricket at the upcoming ICC World Cup 2019. The BCCI trust the ICC and ECB will ensure that most robust security is provided to players, match officials and fans of Indian cricket for the upcoming World Cup." It was a foregone conclusion that CoA would not take any decision on the matter as the ICC can't ban Pakistan as per rules. It is understood that BCCI officials are also concerned that such a stand might cost them the hosting rights of the 2021 Champions Trophy and the 2023 World Cup.

BCCI writes letter to ICC to express concerns over security of Indian players heading into World Cup

Cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar Friday said he would "hate" to see India concede two points to Pakistan by not playing them in the upcoming World Cup as such a move would only help the arch-rivals in the mega-event.&nbsp;

Tendulkar endorsed Sunil Gavaskar's view that India would be better off beating Pakistan in the World Cup than forfeiting the June 16 tie in the wake of the Pulwama terror attack that killed more than 40 CRPF personnel.

"India has always come up trumps against Pakistan in the World Cup. Time to beat them once again. Would personally hate to give them two points and help them in the tournament," said Tendulkar in a statement to PTI.&nbsp;

"Having said that, for me India always comes first, so whatever my country decides, I will back that decision with all my heart," the legendary batsman added.

Also Read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/no-ipl-opening-ceremony-this-year-money-will-go-to-pulwama-martyrs-families-coa-chief-vinod-rai-198981">No IPL opening ceremony this year, money will go to Pulwama martyrs' families: CoA chief Vinod Rai</a>

While the likes of Harbhajan Singh and Yuzvendra Chahal have called for a complete cricketing boycott of Pakistan, Gavaskar on Thursday said India will be the loser if they decide to not play against Pakistan on June 16.

"Who wins if India decide against playing Pakistan in the World Cup? And I am not even talking about the semis and the finals. Who wins? Pakistan win because they get two points," Gavaskar had told 'India Today'.

"India have so far beaten Pakistan every time in a World Cup, so we are actually conceding two points when by beating Pakistan, we could make sure that they don't advance in the competition," he had said.

The World Cup begins in the United Kingdom on May 30.

On Friday, the Committee of Administrators running Indian cricket decided against taking any position on the matter for now.

Cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar Friday said he would "hate" to see India concede two points to Pakistan by not playing them in the upcoming World Cup as such a move would only help the arch-rivals in the mega-event.

Cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar Friday said he would "hate" to see India concede two points to Pakistan by not playing them in the upcoming World Cup as such a move would only help the arch-rivals in the mega-event. Tendulkar endorsed Sunil Gavaskar's view that India would be better off beating Pakistan in the World Cup than forfeiting the June 16 tie in the wake of the Pulwama terror attack that killed more than 40 CRPF personnel. "India has always come up trumps against Pakistan in the World Cup. Time to beat them once again. Would personally hate to give them two points and help them in the tournament," said Tendulkar in a statement to PTI. "Having said that, for me India always comes first, so whatever my country decides, I will back that decision with all my heart," the legendary batsman added. Also Read: No IPL opening ceremony this year, money will go to Pulwama martyrs' families: CoA chief Vinod Rai While the likes of Harbhajan Singh and Yuzvendra Chahal have called for a complete cricketing boycott of Pakistan, Gavaskar on Thursday said India will be the loser if they decide to not play against Pakistan on June 16. "Who wins if India decide against playing Pakistan in the World Cup? And I am not even talking about the semis and the finals. Who wins? Pakistan win because they get two points," Gavaskar had told 'India Today'. "India have so far beaten Pakistan every time in a World Cup, so we are actually conceding two points when by beating Pakistan, we could make sure that they don't advance in the competition," he had said. The World Cup begins in the United Kingdom on May 30. On Friday, the Committee of Administrators running Indian cricket decided against taking any position on the matter for now.

'Time to beat them once again': Tendulkar backs Gavaskar on Indo-Pak World Cup clash

The International Cricket Council is confident the June 16 <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-sources-on-india-playing-pak-at-cricket-world-cup-will-not-play-if-government-does-not-want-us-to-198443">World Cup match between Indian and Pakistan </a>will go ahead despite last week's attack claimed by Pakistan-based militants on Indian forces in disputed Kashmir, chief executive David Richardson has said.

A suicide bomber on Thursday attacked a paramilitary police convoy in India's Kashmir, killing at least 40 in the deadliest single assault on Indian forces in 30 years of insurgency in the Muslim-majority region.

Angry Indian fans have demanded boycotting the marquee match in England though neither of the cricket boards has publicly expressed any such desire.&nbsp;

"Certainly there are no indications any of the matches, including the Pakistan-India match, will not be played as planned at the World Cup," ICC chief executive David Richardson told cricket website http://www.cricinfo.com

"But ... we will continue to monitor the situation."

However, some sources in BCCI have said&nbsp;India will not play Pakistan at the 2019&nbsp;World Cup if the government does not want them to.&nbsp;The sources said the "situation will get clearer after some time, a little closer to the World Cup. &nbsp;

Bitter rivals India and Pakistan are scheduled to clash at Old Trafford in Manchester in what would be one of the most eagerly-anticipated matches at the May 30-July 14 tournament.

More than 400,000 applications had been made for the 25,000 tickets available for the match, organisers said.

"To put that in perspective, England v Australia was around 230-240,000," World Cup tournament director Steve Elworthy told Cricinfo. "And the final was around about 260-270,000 applications for tickets.

"So that gives you a bit of perspective for the demand for this match.

"It's a big game."

The International Cricket Council is confident the June 16 World Cup match between Indian and Pakistan will go ahead despite last week's attack claimed by Pakistan-based militants on Indian forces in disputed Kashmir, chief executive David Richardson has said.

The International Cricket Council is confident the June 16 World Cup match between Indian and Pakistan will go ahead despite last week's attack claimed by Pakistan-based militants on Indian forces in disputed Kashmir, chief executive David Richardson has said. A suicide bomber on Thursday attacked a paramilitary police convoy in India's Kashmir, killing at least 40 in the deadliest single assault on Indian forces in 30 years of insurgency in the Muslim-majority region. Angry Indian fans have demanded boycotting the marquee match in England though neither of the cricket boards has publicly expressed any such desire. "Certainly there are no indications any of the matches, including the Pakistan-India match, will not be played as planned at the World Cup," ICC chief executive David Richardson told cricket website http://www.cricinfo.com "But ... we will continue to monitor the situation." However, some sources in BCCI have said India will not play Pakistan at the 2019 World Cup if the government does not want them to. The sources said the "situation will get clearer after some time, a little closer to the World Cup. Bitter rivals India and Pakistan are scheduled to clash at Old Trafford in Manchester in what would be one of the most eagerly-anticipated matches at the May 30-July 14 tournament. More than 400,000 applications had been made for the 25,000 tickets available for the match, organisers said. "To put that in perspective, England v Australia was around 230-240,000," World Cup tournament director Steve Elworthy told Cricinfo. "And the final was around about 260-270,000 applications for tickets. "So that gives you a bit of perspective for the demand for this match. "It's a big game."

ICC expects India-Pakistan game to go through despite tensions

Alastair Cook believes England can end decades of World Cup disappointment with a triumph on home soil this year.

England have never won the men's World Cup, but with 100 days to go until the start of the latest edition, a team captained by Eoin Morgan are top of the 50-over world rankings.

Former England skipper Cook, who retired from international cricket last year as the country's highest Test run-scorer and most-capped player, said there were several reasons why Morgan's men could go one better than the England teams that lost in the 1979, 1987 and 1992 finals.

"They’re a very settled side, they’ve got 15 players pretty much nailed on for that squad," Cook told AFP at a World Cup event in London's Trafalgar Square on Tuesday.&nbsp;

"Everyone knows their role, they're very comfortable in their role, they've got a lot of strength in depth, they seem to have a lot of options covered and they're an exciting team to watch.&nbsp;

"They are a brilliant one-day side.”

Cook never played in a World Cup, with the left-handed opening batsman dramatically dropped from the squad that then failed to beat a fellow Test nation while suffering a group-stage exit at the 2015 edition in Australia and New Zealand.

But Cook said a change of attitude lay behind England's rise up the one-day rankings since that dismal display.

"Probably over the years we've really concentrated on Test cricket as a nation. Over the last three or four years we've really given the one-day cricket its due," he said.

'Sky's the limit'

It was a point emphasised by former England spinner Graeme Swann, who said: "I just think England are picking the right team these days.&nbsp;

"They're picking one-day specialists and the sky's the limit.&nbsp;

"When they bat, people like Jason Roy, Jonny Bairstow, they think that (scoring) 400 is feasible rather than an impossible dream. I think England have finally picked a very aggressive team as well, with Eoin Morgan, who's a brilliant captain.

"They've got a team that is putting them in firm contention to win this World Cup," insisted Swann, who added "I never thought we (England) would win it deep down when I was there."

Swann was a member of the only England men's side to have won a major global trophy -- the 2010 World Twenty20 in the Caribbean -- and sees parallels between that team and Morgan's men. &nbsp;

"The only world trophy I thought we had a genuine chance of winning was the World Twenty20 in the West Indies that we did, &nbsp;because we were ahead of the curve there.

"We picked a team of specialists, people like Craig Kieswetter, Michael Lumb -- and I think that's what England have finally started doing in the one-day game as well."

'Never write off India'

But Swann warned that England would face several tough opponents in their quest for World Cup glory.

"You can never write off India, they are an exceptional one-day team, Virat Kohli is a brilliant captain, brilliant player."

As for champions Australia, England's oldest rivals and five-times World Cup-winners, Swann said: "The Aussies are like Germany in the football -- you can never write them off at a World Cup."

Swann though said he was particularly looking forward to watching Pakistan, who won the 2017 Champions Trophy one-day tournament in Britain.

"They are so mercurial, you never know what you are going to get. When they are on fire, they are absolutely explosive and when they're not, they're awful."

Alastair Cook believes England can end decades of World Cup disappointment with a triumph on home soil this year. England have never won the men's World Cup, but with 100 days to go until the start of the latest edition, a team captained by Eoin Morgan are top of the 50-over world rankings.

Alastair Cook believes England can end decades of World Cup disappointment with a triumph on home soil this year. England have never won the men's World Cup, but with 100 days to go until the start of the latest edition, a team captained by Eoin Morgan are top of the 50-over world rankings. Former England skipper Cook, who retired from international cricket last year as the country's highest Test run-scorer and most-capped player, said there were several reasons why Morgan's men could go one better than the England teams that lost in the 1979, 1987 and 1992 finals. "They’re a very settled side, they’ve got 15 players pretty much nailed on for that squad," Cook told AFP at a World Cup event in London's Trafalgar Square on Tuesday. "Everyone knows their role, they're very comfortable in their role, they've got a lot of strength in depth, they seem to have a lot of options covered and they're an exciting team to watch. "They are a brilliant one-day side.” Cook never played in a World Cup, with the left-handed opening batsman dramatically dropped from the squad that then failed to beat a fellow Test nation while suffering a group-stage exit at the 2015 edition in Australia and New Zealand. But Cook said a change of attitude lay behind England's rise up the one-day rankings since that dismal display. "Probably over the years we've really concentrated on Test cricket as a nation. Over the last three or four years we've really given the one-day cricket its due," he said. 'Sky's the limit' It was a point emphasised by former England spinner Graeme Swann, who said: "I just think England are picking the right team these days. "They're picking one-day specialists and the sky's the limit. "When they bat, people like Jason Roy, Jonny Bairstow, they think that (scoring) 400 is feasible rather than an impossible dream. I think England have finally picked a very aggressive team as well, with Eoin Morgan, who's a brilliant captain. "They've got a team that is putting them in firm contention to win this World Cup," insisted Swann, who added "I never thought we (England) would win it deep down when I was there." Swann was a member of the only England men's side to have won a major global trophy -- the 2010 World Twenty20 in the Caribbean -- and sees parallels between that team and Morgan's men. "The only world trophy I thought we had a genuine chance of winning was the World Twenty20 in the West Indies that we did, because we were ahead of the curve there. "We picked a team of specialists, people like Craig Kieswetter, Michael Lumb -- and I think that's what England have finally started doing in the one-day game as well." 'Never write off India' But Swann warned that England would face several tough opponents in their quest for World Cup glory. "You can never write off India, they are an exceptional one-day team, Virat Kohli is a brilliant captain, brilliant player." As for champions Australia, England's oldest rivals and five-times World Cup-winners, Swann said: "The Aussies are like Germany in the football -- you can never write them off at a World Cup." Swann though said he was particularly looking forward to watching Pakistan, who won the 2017 Champions Trophy one-day tournament in Britain. "They are so mercurial, you never know what you are going to get. When they are on fire, they are absolutely explosive and when they're not, they're awful."

Alastair Cook confident England can end World Cup drought

Sri Lanka's Akila Dananjaya has been cleared to resume bowling by the International Cricket Council following remedial work after the global governing body suspended him for an illegal action.

The ICC, in a statement issued from its Dubai headquarters on Monday, said Dananjaya’s remodelled bowling action was assessed in Chennai on February 2, where it was found the amount of elbow extension for all his deliveries was within the allowed 15-degree level of tolerance.

Match official are, however, still free to report Dananjaya if they believe he is bowling with a suspect action and not reproducing the legal delivery seen during the assessment.&nbsp;

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Following remedial work and reassessment, Akila Dananjaya may resume bowling in international cricket. 
 
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In order to assist umpires and match officials, the ICC said they would be provided with images and video footage of Danajaya's remodelled action.

Dananjaya was reported over a suspect bowling action during the first Test of the England series in Sri Lanka in November, which the tourists won by 211 runs on their way to a 3-0 whitewash.

He was subsequently banned after an independent assessment of his bowling action in Brisbane on November 23 which revealed his deliveries exceeded the 15-degrees level of tolerance permitted under the regulations.

The 25-year-old Dananjaya has played five Tests since making his debut against Bangladesh in February last year.

Sri Lanka's Akila Dananjaya has been cleared to resume bowling by the International Cricket Council following remedial work after the global governing body suspended him for an illegal action.

Sri Lanka's Akila Dananjaya has been cleared to resume bowling by the International Cricket Council following remedial work after the global governing body suspended him for an illegal action. The ICC, in a statement issued from its Dubai headquarters on Monday, said Dananjaya’s remodelled bowling action was assessed in Chennai on February 2, where it was found the amount of elbow extension for all his deliveries was within the allowed 15-degree level of tolerance. Match official are, however, still free to report Dananjaya if they believe he is bowling with a suspect action and not reproducing the legal delivery seen during the assessment. Following remedial work and reassessment, Akila Dananjaya may resume bowling in international cricket. FULL STORY ⬇️https://t.co/jdxP1qLHRp pic.twitter.com/8HDivUlq8E — ICC (@ICC) February 18, 2019 × In order to assist umpires and match officials, the ICC said they would be provided with images and video footage of Danajaya's remodelled action. Dananjaya was reported over a suspect bowling action during the first Test of the England series in Sri Lanka in November, which the tourists won by 211 runs on their way to a 3-0 whitewash. He was subsequently banned after an independent assessment of his bowling action in Brisbane on November 23 which revealed his deliveries exceeded the 15-degrees level of tolerance permitted under the regulations. The 25-year-old Dananjaya has played five Tests since making his debut against Bangladesh in February last year.

ICC clear Sri Lanka's Akila Dananjaya to resume bowling

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