A champion on the field and a self-proclaimed ‘Universe Boss’ off it, West Indies’ veteran cricketer Chris Gayle is one of the biggest names set to feature in this year’s edition of the Abu Dhabi T10 League, and the Jamaican left-hander is already looking forward to the tournament which takes place from January 28 to&nbsp;February 6&nbsp;in the UAE.

Speaking from his home in Jamaica, Gayle said he is looking forward to taking part in this year’s edition of cricket’s new avatar. “At the moment, I’m actually getting some well-needed rest but keeping the Abu Dhabi T10 League in mind, I’m going to start some training soon and get ready to be back in business," he said.

Expressing his delight at returning to take part in the league after a gap of two seasons, Gayle stated, “First of all, I want to say that it’s good to be back. I’ve missed the past two seasons, so it’s good to be back within T10. There are lots of talented players who will be on show, with the likes of Kieron Pollard and the other international players. So I’m definitely looking forward to be back with Team Abu Dhabi. South Africa’s Chris Morris is also in my team, and I’ve played with him before, so it’s good to be back playing with him and the boys again.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-keep-a-few-people-quiet-steve-smith-shuts-down-critics-with-27th-test-century-355380" hreflang="en">'Will keep a few people quiet': Steve Smith shuts down critics with 27th Test century</a>

Talking about the impact that T10 has had on cricket, and the potential it holds globally, Gayle added, “I would absolutely love to see T10 within the Olympics. It would be something huge for the sport from a general point of view. I also think T10 can be (held) within the United States also since it’s a big platform. I think most people don’t recognize the States for cricket, but T10 is very much suitable to be held within the USA, and I believe it can help generate bigger revenues as well.”

“The organizers of the Abu Dhabi T10 League have (built) something fantastic here, so we should now look to spread it and we can get more guys involved and more countries involved within T10 for sure,” added the West Indian.

Speaking about his experience of playing in the T10 League and looking forward to this season, Gayle said, “The first time I played T10 it was really exciting, fun and swashbuckling. I really liked it because it was just powerhouse hitting from ball one, and all the guys enjoyed it. We had a good time as well, so like I said, being back and playing in Abu Dhabi now, it is a better wicket to bat on now, so more runs can be scored. I think that happened last year as well in Abu Dhabi – the scoring percentage rate is certainly higher now, so it’s good luck to the bowlers.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/iocs-senior-official-says-tokyo-olympics-uncertain-due-to-coronavirus-surge-355388" hreflang="en">IOC's senior official says Tokyo Olympics uncertain due to coronavirus surge</a>

Signing off, the legendary cricketer also had some piece of advice for the youngsters who look up to him. He said, “I believe you can always look at a particular player, but not necessarily try and be that person – you need to be who you are. You need to know your weaknesses and your strengths, and you can pick certain key moments or things from that player’s game, but put it within your game. Don’t try to say, ‘Hey, I want to be a Chris Gayle’. I always want someone to be in their own individual rights to actually say, ‘This is me, this is who I want to be’. I would just tell the youngsters to be confident about themselves, and just get the job done.”

A champion on the field and a self-proclaimed ‘Universe Boss’ off it, West Indies’ veteran cricketer Chris Gayle is one of the biggest names set to feature in this year’s edition of the Abu Dhabi T10 League, and the Jamaican left-hander is already looking forward to the tournament which takes place from January 28 to February 6 in the UAE.

A champion on the field and a self-proclaimed ‘Universe Boss’ off it, West Indies’ veteran cricketer Chris Gayle is one of the biggest names set to feature in this year’s edition of the Abu Dhabi T10 League, and the Jamaican left-hander is already looking forward to the tournament which takes place from January 28 to February 6 in the UAE. Speaking from his home in Jamaica, Gayle said he is looking forward to taking part in this year’s edition of cricket’s new avatar. “At the moment, I’m actually getting some well-needed rest but keeping the Abu Dhabi T10 League in mind, I’m going to start some training soon and get ready to be back in business," he said. Expressing his delight at returning to take part in the league after a gap of two seasons, Gayle stated, “First of all, I want to say that it’s good to be back. I’ve missed the past two seasons, so it’s good to be back within T10. There are lots of talented players who will be on show, with the likes of Kieron Pollard and the other international players. So I’m definitely looking forward to be back with Team Abu Dhabi. South Africa’s Chris Morris is also in my team, and I’ve played with him before, so it’s good to be back playing with him and the boys again.” ALSO READ: 'Will keep a few people quiet': Steve Smith shuts down critics with 27th Test century Talking about the impact that T10 has had on cricket, and the potential it holds globally, Gayle added, “I would absolutely love to see T10 within the Olympics. It would be something huge for the sport from a general point of view. I also think T10 can be (held) within the United States also since it’s a big platform. I think most people don’t recognize the States for cricket, but T10 is very much suitable to be held within the USA, and I believe it can help generate bigger revenues as well.” “The organizers of the Abu Dhabi T10 League have (built) something fantastic here, so we should now look to spread it and we can get more guys involved and more countries involved within T10 for sure,” added the West Indian. Speaking about his experience of playing in the T10 League and looking forward to this season, Gayle said, “The first time I played T10 it was really exciting, fun and swashbuckling. I really liked it because it was just powerhouse hitting from ball one, and all the guys enjoyed it. We had a good time as well, so like I said, being back and playing in Abu Dhabi now, it is a better wicket to bat on now, so more runs can be scored. I think that happened last year as well in Abu Dhabi – the scoring percentage rate is certainly higher now, so it’s good luck to the bowlers.” ALSO READ: IOC's senior official says Tokyo Olympics uncertain due to coronavirus surge Signing off, the legendary cricketer also had some piece of advice for the youngsters who look up to him. He said, “I believe you can always look at a particular player, but not necessarily try and be that person – you need to be who you are. You need to know your weaknesses and your strengths, and you can pick certain key moments or things from that player’s game, but put it within your game. Don’t try to say, ‘Hey, I want to be a Chris Gayle’. I always want someone to be in their own individual rights to actually say, ‘This is me, this is who I want to be’. I would just tell the youngsters to be confident about themselves, and just get the job done.”

'Would love to see T10 within the Olympics,' states Chris Gayle ahead of new season

Dick Pound, the longest-serving member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), has raised doubts&nbsp;over the rescheduled Tokyo Olympics as the said he “can’t be certain” about the Games due to the continued spread of the dreaded COVID-19.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I can’t be certain because the ongoing elephant in the room would be the surges in the virus,”&nbsp;Pound told the BBC.&nbsp;

Pound’s statement comes after the IOC said it has “full confidence” in the Tokyo Olympic&nbsp;organisers&nbsp;and remains committed to the quadrennial event going ahead as per the revised scheduled in July despite Tokyo going under a state of emergency on Thursday.&nbsp;

The Japanese capital is witnessing the third wave of infections in recent weeks which prompted prime minister Yoshihide Suga to declare a month-long state of emergency in Tokyo and three&nbsp;neighbouring&nbsp;areas.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics-japan-postpones-torch-exhibitions-over-covid-19-fears-355068" hreflang="en">Olympics: Japan postpones torch exhibitions over COVID-19 fears</a>

Pound further said that all Olympic-bound athletes should be vaccinated as a priority. In November 2020, IOC President Thomas Bach had urged athletes to get vaccinated before the Games but said it would not be mandatory for the event.&nbsp;

On Thursday, the IOC responded to the state of emergency announced in Tokyo as they said they are fully committed and concentrated on delivering a safe and successful Olympic and Paralympic Games Tokyo 2020 in the summer.&nbsp;

“The IOC has full confidence in the Japanese authorities and the measures they are taking,” it said in a statement released to Kyodo News.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Together with our Japanese partners, we continue to be fully concentrated and committed to the safe and successful delivery of the Olympic and Paralympic Games Tokyo 2020 this summer.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-safe-and-secure-despite-virus-emergency-organisers-355315" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics 'safe and secure' despite virus emergency: organisers</a>

Tokyo announced a record 2,447 new COVID-19 cases before the state of emergency was declared by the Japanese&nbsp;PM.&nbsp;

The Tokyo Olympics, which was postponed by one year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, are scheduled to commence on July 23 with Paralympics set to open on August 24.&nbsp;

Earlier, in a New Year video message, Bach had called Tokyo&nbsp;“still the best prepared Olympic city ever” and thanked Japan for its commitment and determination to organize the games “in a safe and secure way for all the participants” that will fit a post-coronavirus world.&nbsp;

Dick Pound, the longest-serving member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), has raised doubts over the rescheduled Tokyo Olympics as the said he “can’t be certain” about the Games due to the continued spread of the dreaded COVID-19.

Dick Pound, the longest-serving member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), has raised doubts over the rescheduled Tokyo Olympics as the said he “can’t be certain” about the Games due to the continued spread of the dreaded COVID-19. “I can’t be certain because the ongoing elephant in the room would be the surges in the virus,” Pound told the BBC. Pound’s statement comes after the IOC said it has “full confidence” in the Tokyo Olympic organisers and remains committed to the quadrennial event going ahead as per the revised scheduled in July despite Tokyo going under a state of emergency on Thursday. The Japanese capital is witnessing the third wave of infections in recent weeks which prompted prime minister Yoshihide Suga to declare a month-long state of emergency in Tokyo and three neighbouring areas. ALSO READ: Olympics: Japan postpones torch exhibitions over COVID-19 fears Pound further said that all Olympic-bound athletes should be vaccinated as a priority. In November 2020, IOC President Thomas Bach had urged athletes to get vaccinated before the Games but said it would not be mandatory for the event. On Thursday, the IOC responded to the state of emergency announced in Tokyo as they said they are fully committed and concentrated on delivering a safe and successful Olympic and Paralympic Games Tokyo 2020 in the summer. “The IOC has full confidence in the Japanese authorities and the measures they are taking,” it said in a statement released to Kyodo News. “Together with our Japanese partners, we continue to be fully concentrated and committed to the safe and successful delivery of the Olympic and Paralympic Games Tokyo 2020 this summer.” ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics 'safe and secure' despite virus emergency: organisers Tokyo announced a record 2,447 new COVID-19 cases before the state of emergency was declared by the Japanese PM. The Tokyo Olympics, which was postponed by one year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, are scheduled to commence on July 23 with Paralympics set to open on August 24. Earlier, in a New Year video message, Bach had called Tokyo “still the best prepared Olympic city ever” and thanked Japan for its commitment and determination to organize the games “in a safe and secure way for all the participants” that will fit a post-coronavirus world.

IOC's senior official says Tokyo Olympics uncertain due to coronavirus surge

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga began the new year with a promise that the delayed Tokyo Olympics would go ahead in July 2021 -- even as the country fights with a steep rise in coronavirus cases.

“The Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games will be held this summer,” Suga said in a written statement for the New Year, describing the event as a symbol of world unity.&nbsp;

“We will make steady preparations to realise a safe and secure tournament.”

New Year's Day is the biggest holiday in Japan's calendar, but this year's festivities have been subdued following record highs in new coronavirus cases nationwide and calls from the government to stay home.

Japan's Emperor Naruhito appealed to the public to work together through the pandemic in a videotaped New Year's Day address to the nation released on Friday.

"I am wishing from my heart that everyone can move forward during this hard time by supporting and helping one another," he said in the address, which was released in place of an annual public appearance by the imperial family during the New Year holidays.&nbsp;

The event was cancelled this year because of the pandemic.

About 3,480 people have died in Japan from around 235,700 cases during the pandemic so far.

New Year's Day festivities in Japan involves spending time with family and praying at local temples, where hordes of people wish for good luck in the coming year.

(with inputs)

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga began the new year with a promise that the delayed Tokyo Olympics would go ahead in July 2021 -- even as the country fights with a steep rise in coronavirus cases.

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga began the new year with a promise that the delayed Tokyo Olympics would go ahead in July 2021 -- even as the country fights with a steep rise in coronavirus cases. “The Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games will be held this summer,” Suga said in a written statement for the New Year, describing the event as a symbol of world unity. “We will make steady preparations to realise a safe and secure tournament.” New Year's Day is the biggest holiday in Japan's calendar, but this year's festivities have been subdued following record highs in new coronavirus cases nationwide and calls from the government to stay home. Japan's Emperor Naruhito appealed to the public to work together through the pandemic in a videotaped New Year's Day address to the nation released on Friday. "I am wishing from my heart that everyone can move forward during this hard time by supporting and helping one another," he said in the address, which was released in place of an annual public appearance by the imperial family during the New Year holidays. The event was cancelled this year because of the pandemic. About 3,480 people have died in Japan from around 235,700 cases during the pandemic so far. New Year's Day festivities in Japan involves spending time with family and praying at local temples, where hordes of people wish for good luck in the coming year. (with inputs)

Tokyo 2020 Olympics and Paralympics ‘will be held this summer’: Japan PM

Despite the growing COVID-19 & rising number of infections, Japan will be hosting the delayed 2020 Tokyo Olympics & the Paralympics in 2021. WION brings you a report.

Japan: Olympics, Paralympics on track despite surge in infections

The inclusion of breakdancing at the 2024 Olympics may been surprising but organisers were drawn to the sport`s potential to attract a younger fanbase and grow the Olympic audience in the internet age, Paris Games chief Tony Estanguet said. 
 
Breakdancing was one of four new sports to win a spot at the Games in Paris - alongside surfing, skateboarding and sports climbing - after the International Olympic Committee ratified their inclusion earlier this month. 
 
Estanguet added that though the decision to add breakdancing to the Games roster had come in for some criticism, most of the feedback he had received had been overwhelmingly positive. 
 
"What attracted us to this sport was its ability to attract the youth," he told Reuters in an interview. "It`s a sport that is widely watched on all digital platforms, widely consumed by young people. 
 
"It`s very impressive technically and physically, what these athletes manage to do, and that`s why we were attracted to this sport. The feedback has been very good. 
 
"There are always a few critics, but overall... I see that throughout the different regions of France, there is very positive feedback on the addition of breakdance as a new sport." 
 
Games` organisers had been on the hunt for new sports to broaden the appeal of the Olympics and breakdancing fit the bill because it had already been part of the programme at the Youth Olympics in Buenos Aires in 2018, he added. 
 
"We found climbing, skateboarding, surfing and breakdance, and we are really adding events that come from a completely different world, with fans, who would not necessarily be connected to the Olympic Games otherwise," Estanguet said. 
 
"This allows us to expand the number of fans and viewers." 
 
The 2020 Games in Tokyo were postponed to 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and public opinion on whether the event should go ahead is mixed, with 60% of respondents in a November poll saying the Tokyo Games should be postponed further or cancelled. 
 
Estanguet said there are no such reservations about the 2024 Olympics in France. 
 
"What is a matter of public opinion in Tokyo is specific to Tokyo," he added. "We carried out a survey this week which shows that in France, Paris 2024 continues to receive wide support from the French."

The inclusion of breakdancing at the 2024 Olympics may been surprising but organisers were drawn to the sport`s potential to attract a younger fanbase and grow the Olympic audience in the internet age, Paris Games chief Tony Estanguet said.

The inclusion of breakdancing at the 2024 Olympics may been surprising but organisers were drawn to the sport`s potential to attract a younger fanbase and grow the Olympic audience in the internet age, Paris Games chief Tony Estanguet said. Breakdancing was one of four new sports to win a spot at the Games in Paris - alongside surfing, skateboarding and sports climbing - after the International Olympic Committee ratified their inclusion earlier this month. Estanguet added that though the decision to add breakdancing to the Games roster had come in for some criticism, most of the feedback he had received had been overwhelmingly positive. "What attracted us to this sport was its ability to attract the youth," he told Reuters in an interview. "It`s a sport that is widely watched on all digital platforms, widely consumed by young people. "It`s very impressive technically and physically, what these athletes manage to do, and that`s why we were attracted to this sport. The feedback has been very good. "There are always a few critics, but overall... I see that throughout the different regions of France, there is very positive feedback on the addition of breakdance as a new sport." Games` organisers had been on the hunt for new sports to broaden the appeal of the Olympics and breakdancing fit the bill because it had already been part of the programme at the Youth Olympics in Buenos Aires in 2018, he added. "We found climbing, skateboarding, surfing and breakdance, and we are really adding events that come from a completely different world, with fans, who would not necessarily be connected to the Olympic Games otherwise," Estanguet said. "This allows us to expand the number of fans and viewers." The 2020 Games in Tokyo were postponed to 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and public opinion on whether the event should go ahead is mixed, with 60% of respondents in a November poll saying the Tokyo Games should be postponed further or cancelled. Estanguet said there are no such reservations about the 2024 Olympics in France. "What is a matter of public opinion in Tokyo is specific to Tokyo," he added. "We carried out a survey this week which shows that in France, Paris 2024 continues to receive wide support from the French."

Olympics-Breakdancing included in Paris 2024 to reach out to youth: Games Chief

Breakdancing has become Olympic sport after the International Olympic Committee (IOC) announced that four new sports have made it to the 2024 Paris Olympics with breakdancing being one of them.

Breakdance will make Olympic debut at 2024 Paris Games

Breakdancing was one of four new sports along with skateboarding, surfing and sport climbing to get the Olympic green light on Monday for inclusion at the 2024 Paris Games.

The four sports were included as the International Olympic Committee (IOC) executive board met to confirm the Paris 2024 programme.

Skateboarding, sport climbing and surfing have already been added to the programme for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, which will take place in 2021 after being postponed by a year because of the coronavirus pandemic.

The introduction of breaking was "one of the results of the Olympic Agenda 2020", Bach said. "We had a clear priority to introduce sports (that are) particularly popular among the younger generation and taking into consideration the urbanisation of sport."

Breakdancing, which grew up alongside hip hop in the South Bronx of New York in the 1970s and is officially known in sport terms as "breaking", appeared at the 2018 Youth Olympics in Buenos Aires, in the form of head-to-head "battles".

Russia's Sergei Chernyshev, competing under the nickname Bumblebee, won the first breakdancing gold medal for boys in that event, while Japan's Ramu Kawai won the girls' title.

"Today is a historic occasion not only for b-boys and b-girls but for all dancers around the world," said Shawn Tay, president of the World Dance Sport Federation (WDSF).

"The WDSF could not be prouder to have breaking included at Paris 2024... It was a true team effort to get to this moment and we will redouble our efforts in the lead-up to the Olympic Games to make sure the breaking competition at Paris 2024 will be unforgettable."

<h2>- Paris podiums down to 329 -</h2>

Federations of sports that already have Olympic status were left disappointed in their bid to increase events within their sports as IOC president Thomas Bach said that none of the proposed 41 events would be included in Paris.

While some sports substituted in some events within their existing event numbers, Bach said medal events had actually gone down from 339 to 329.

He said the athletes' quota for Paris had been fixed at 10,500, including those participating in the four new sports.

That represents a decrease of 600 from Tokyo Games, while gender equality would be attained for the first time in Olympic history in Paris.

The question of gender equality led to the demise of the men's 50km race walk, which first appeared at the 1932 Olympics.&nbsp;

IOC sports director Kit McConnell said the event would be replaced by a "mixed gender event".

There was a decision to "reach gender equality by removing the men's 50km race walk", rather than introducing a women's version, McConnell said, adding that the men and women's 20km race walks would remain.

The replacement event will not, however, be a mixed cross-country, which World Athletics had been pushing hard for.

"The event had to fit into an existing Olympic venue," McConnell said, explaining that a potential re-fit of the equestrian or mountain-bike venues to accommodate a cross-country was shown to be "too expensive and complex".

Breakdancing was one of four new sports along with skateboarding, surfing and sport climbing to get the Olympic green light on Monday for inclusion at the 2024 Paris Games.

Breakdancing was one of four new sports along with skateboarding, surfing and sport climbing to get the Olympic green light on Monday for inclusion at the 2024 Paris Games. The four sports were included as the International Olympic Committee (IOC) executive board met to confirm the Paris 2024 programme. Skateboarding, sport climbing and surfing have already been added to the programme for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, which will take place in 2021 after being postponed by a year because of the coronavirus pandemic. The introduction of breaking was "one of the results of the Olympic Agenda 2020", Bach said. "We had a clear priority to introduce sports (that are) particularly popular among the younger generation and taking into consideration the urbanisation of sport." Breakdancing, which grew up alongside hip hop in the South Bronx of New York in the 1970s and is officially known in sport terms as "breaking", appeared at the 2018 Youth Olympics in Buenos Aires, in the form of head-to-head "battles". Russia's Sergei Chernyshev, competing under the nickname Bumblebee, won the first breakdancing gold medal for boys in that event, while Japan's Ramu Kawai won the girls' title. "Today is a historic occasion not only for b-boys and b-girls but for all dancers around the world," said Shawn Tay, president of the World Dance Sport Federation (WDSF). "The WDSF could not be prouder to have breaking included at Paris 2024... It was a true team effort to get to this moment and we will redouble our efforts in the lead-up to the Olympic Games to make sure the breaking competition at Paris 2024 will be unforgettable." - Paris podiums down to 329 - Federations of sports that already have Olympic status were left disappointed in their bid to increase events within their sports as IOC president Thomas Bach said that none of the proposed 41 events would be included in Paris. While some sports substituted in some events within their existing event numbers, Bach said medal events had actually gone down from 339 to 329. He said the athletes' quota for Paris had been fixed at 10,500, including those participating in the four new sports. That represents a decrease of 600 from Tokyo Games, while gender equality would be attained for the first time in Olympic history in Paris. The question of gender equality led to the demise of the men's 50km race walk, which first appeared at the 1932 Olympics. IOC sports director Kit McConnell said the event would be replaced by a "mixed gender event". There was a decision to "reach gender equality by removing the men's 50km race walk", rather than introducing a women's version, McConnell said, adding that the men and women's 20km race walks would remain. The replacement event will not, however, be a mixed cross-country, which World Athletics had been pushing hard for. "The event had to fit into an existing Olympic venue," McConnell said, explaining that a potential re-fit of the equestrian or mountain-bike venues to accommodate a cross-country was shown to be "too expensive and complex".

Breakdancing gets Olympic green light for Paris 2024

The Olympic rings monument was reinstalled in Tokyo Bay on Tuesday, after being removed in August for maintenance, as organisers ramp up preparations for next year’s postponed Summer Games.

The return of the monument, which stands 15.3m tall and 32.6m wide and was originally installed in January, should send a signal that the Games are getting closer, Tokyo metropolitan government planning director Atsushi Yanashimizu told Reuters.

“Since the symbol is here, we want Tokyo residents and also internationally to feel that the Games are coming very soon,” Yanashimizu said.

“Also, we want everyone to feel we will have the Tokyo 2020 Games definitely next year.”

The monument, which will be lit up later on Tuesday, will remain in place next to Rainbow Bridge until the Olympics finish in August before being replaced with the Paralympics logo.

The Olympics were pushed back by a year in March because of the novel coronavirus pandemic and organisers have yet to provide a figure for how much the postponement will cost.

On Monday, Kyodo News reported that organisers estimated the cost of COVID-19 countermeasures for the Games would run to around 100 billion yen ($960 million)

The Olympic rings monument was reinstalled in Tokyo Bay on Tuesday, after being removed in August for maintenance, as organisers ramp up preparations for next year’s postponed Summer Games.

The Olympic rings monument was reinstalled in Tokyo Bay on Tuesday, after being removed in August for maintenance, as organisers ramp up preparations for next year’s postponed Summer Games. The return of the monument, which stands 15.3m tall and 32.6m wide and was originally installed in January, should send a signal that the Games are getting closer, Tokyo metropolitan government planning director Atsushi Yanashimizu told Reuters. “Since the symbol is here, we want Tokyo residents and also internationally to feel that the Games are coming very soon,” Yanashimizu said. “Also, we want everyone to feel we will have the Tokyo 2020 Games definitely next year.” The monument, which will be lit up later on Tuesday, will remain in place next to Rainbow Bridge until the Olympics finish in August before being replaced with the Paralympics logo. The Olympics were pushed back by a year in March because of the novel coronavirus pandemic and organisers have yet to provide a figure for how much the postponement will cost. On Monday, Kyodo News reported that organisers estimated the cost of COVID-19 countermeasures for the Games would run to around 100 billion yen ($960 million)

Olympic rings return to Tokyo Bay

Former India batsman and NCA head Rahul Dravid has backed the thought of adding T20 cricket in the Olympics. He said that he is all for the expansion of the game.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-witnessed-record-breaking-surge-in-viewership-342978" hreflang="en">IPL 2020 witnessed record-breaking surge in viewership</a>

Manoj Badle, the lead owner of IPL franchise Rajasthan Royals in association with Simon Hughes launched their book via virtual seminar on Friday called 'A New Innings'. Dravid was a part of the seminar.&nbsp;

"I think it will be great if the T20 format of the game can become an Olympic sport. Obviously, it will come with its challenges. Also, cricket is a game that requires a certain kind of facility for it to be successful," Dravid said during the virtual seminar.

"We have seen in the just-concluded IPL, the success of IPL was on large part due to the quality of wickets... if you can get all of that right and get the facilities in place then why not. I am certainly for the expansion of the T20 game. If it is possible, cricket should endeavor to try and get into the Olympics," he added.

Mumbai Indians were the champions of IPL 2020, after beating Delhi Capitals in the finals last Tuesday. Mumbai extended their record by winning the Indian Premier League title for the fifth time. They also became the second team in IPL history to successfully defend their trophy.&nbsp;

Dravid lauded Mumbai Indians and said that they have a really good mix of experienced and young talented players.

"I think what they have done really well over the last 4-5 years is that they have maintained a really strong core of really high-quality players and mixed that up with identifying some really good young talented players," he said.

"... that has really been the key, their ability to maintain a core of very experienced senior players, obviously world-class T20 players, and the critical thing is that then balancing that out with young exciting Indian talent. And they have been able to do that exceptionally well," Dravid added.

Former India batsman and NCA head Rahul Dravid has backed the thought of adding T20 cricket in the Olympics. He said that he is all for the expansion of the game.

Former India batsman and NCA head Rahul Dravid has backed the thought of adding T20 cricket in the Olympics. He said that he is all for the expansion of the game. Also read: IPL 2020 witnessed record-breaking surge in viewership Manoj Badle, the lead owner of IPL franchise Rajasthan Royals in association with Simon Hughes launched their book via virtual seminar on Friday called 'A New Innings'. Dravid was a part of the seminar. "I think it will be great if the T20 format of the game can become an Olympic sport. Obviously, it will come with its challenges. Also, cricket is a game that requires a certain kind of facility for it to be successful," Dravid said during the virtual seminar. "We have seen in the just-concluded IPL, the success of IPL was on large part due to the quality of wickets... if you can get all of that right and get the facilities in place then why not. I am certainly for the expansion of the T20 game. If it is possible, cricket should endeavor to try and get into the Olympics," he added. Mumbai Indians were the champions of IPL 2020, after beating Delhi Capitals in the finals last Tuesday. Mumbai extended their record by winning the Indian Premier League title for the fifth time. They also became the second team in IPL history to successfully defend their trophy. Dravid lauded Mumbai Indians and said that they have a really good mix of experienced and young talented players. "I think what they have done really well over the last 4-5 years is that they have maintained a really strong core of really high-quality players and mixed that up with identifying some really good young talented players," he said. "... that has really been the key, their ability to maintain a core of very experienced senior players, obviously world-class T20 players, and the critical thing is that then balancing that out with young exciting Indian talent. And they have been able to do that exceptionally well," Dravid added.

'T20 format of the game can become an Olympic sport': Rahul Dravid

After the announcement of rescheduling the Tokyo Olympics in 2021 doctors are assigned on the project to help COVID-19 infected athletes to get back on track.

Doctors helping athletes to get back on track for Tokyo Olympics 2021

Olympic chief Thomas Bach warned against allowing the Games to "descend into a marketplace of demonstrations" on Saturday after criticism of a rule banning protests by athletes.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/there-is-a-lingering-regret-novak-djokovic-on-us-open-and-roland-garros-337459" hreflang="en">'There is a lingering regret': Novak Djokovic on US Open and Roland Garros</a>

The International Olympic Committee president has come under fire for the ruling, announced in a year which has seen widespread support by athletes for the Black Lives Matter movement.

But Bach, who won a team fencing gold medal at the 1976 Olympics, said he had learned first-hand about the "political impotence of sport" when West Germany boycotted the 1980 Games over the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan.

"The athletes personify the values of excellence, solidarity and peace. They express this inclusiveness and mutual respect also by being politically neutral on the field of play and during the ceremonies," Bach wrote in British newspaper The Guardian.

"At times, this focus on sport needs to be reconciled with the freedom of speech that all athletes also enjoy at the Olympic Games. This is the reason there are rules for the field of play and the ceremonies protecting this spirit of sport.

"The unifying power of the Games can only unfold if everyone shows respect for and solidarity to one another. Otherwise, the Games will descend into a marketplace of demonstrations of all kinds, dividing and not uniting the world."

Earlier this month, World Athletics chief and newly enshrined IOC member Sebastian Coe backed athletes' right to "take the knee" on the Olympic podium, as long as it was done with "complete respect" for other competitors.

Former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick made headlines when he began kneeling during the US national anthem in 2016 to protest police brutality against Black Americans and other minorities.

He was ostracised by the league and criticised by US President Donald Trump, but in June the NFL sanctioned "peaceful protests" and world football's governing body FIFA has urged leagues to use "common sense" when deciding whether to discipline political activism.

In June, US athletes and 1968 Mexico Games icon John Carlos, famously kicked out of the event for raising his fist in a black power salute, called on the IOC to scrap the ban on protests.

"Athletes will no longer be silenced," they wrote.

Last month, hundreds of human rights and civil society groups urged the IOC to strip China of the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics following its clampdown in Hong Kong and mass internment of Uighur Muslims in Xinjiang.

Olympic chief Thomas Bach warned against allowing the Games to "descend into a marketplace of demonstrations" on Saturday after criticism of a rule banning protests by athletes.

Olympic chief Thomas Bach warned against allowing the Games to "descend into a marketplace of demonstrations" on Saturday after criticism of a rule banning protests by athletes. Also read: 'There is a lingering regret': Novak Djokovic on US Open and Roland Garros The International Olympic Committee president has come under fire for the ruling, announced in a year which has seen widespread support by athletes for the Black Lives Matter movement. But Bach, who won a team fencing gold medal at the 1976 Olympics, said he had learned first-hand about the "political impotence of sport" when West Germany boycotted the 1980 Games over the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. "The athletes personify the values of excellence, solidarity and peace. They express this inclusiveness and mutual respect also by being politically neutral on the field of play and during the ceremonies," Bach wrote in British newspaper The Guardian. "At times, this focus on sport needs to be reconciled with the freedom of speech that all athletes also enjoy at the Olympic Games. This is the reason there are rules for the field of play and the ceremonies protecting this spirit of sport. "The unifying power of the Games can only unfold if everyone shows respect for and solidarity to one another. Otherwise, the Games will descend into a marketplace of demonstrations of all kinds, dividing and not uniting the world." Earlier this month, World Athletics chief and newly enshrined IOC member Sebastian Coe backed athletes' right to "take the knee" on the Olympic podium, as long as it was done with "complete respect" for other competitors. Former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick made headlines when he began kneeling during the US national anthem in 2016 to protest police brutality against Black Americans and other minorities. He was ostracised by the league and criticised by US President Donald Trump, but in June the NFL sanctioned "peaceful protests" and world football's governing body FIFA has urged leagues to use "common sense" when deciding whether to discipline political activism. In June, US athletes and 1968 Mexico Games icon John Carlos, famously kicked out of the event for raising his fist in a black power salute, called on the IOC to scrap the ban on protests. "Athletes will no longer be silenced," they wrote. Last month, hundreds of human rights and civil society groups urged the IOC to strip China of the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics following its clampdown in Hong Kong and mass internment of Uighur Muslims in Xinjiang.

Olympic chief says Games cannot be 'marketplace of demonstrations'

Coinciding with the International Coming Out Day, "Pride House Tokyo Legacy" opened on Sunday in Tokyo as the world's first Pride House to be officially recognized by an Olympic Organizing Committee.

Tokyo LGBTQ Pride House recognized by Olympics

Tokyo has unveiled its first major community hub for the LGBTQ community as a part of the pre-Olympics project to fight against discrimination.

The installation is called Pride House Tokyo and the campaigners are hoping to fight the stigma and raise awareness about the discrimination that the LGBTQ community faces.

This is similar to the inclusive pop-up sites that have been set up at past Olympics. However, Tokyo has set this up as a permanent meeting space. Through this, the authorities hope to educate the public about sexual diversity.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/2021-tokyo-marathon-postponed-until-after-olympics-333908">Also read:&nbsp;2021 Tokyo Marathon postponed until after Olympics</a>

Pride House will also provide a safe space to the people who undergo hardships and/or suffer&nbsp;harassment or discrimination.

This is being seen as a powerful move as Japan is the only G7 country that does not allow/recognise same-sex relationships.

"Japan, not just in sporting circles but society as a whole — including schools and workplaces — is not friendly to LGBTQ people, and it is hard to come out," Gon Matsunaka, who heads the project behind Pride House, told AFP.

<img alt="Tokyo's Pride House" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2c1b9de2-056b-4a23-b5e0-4a3410b034ab" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Tokyo%27s%20Pride%20House.jpg" />

Pride House Tokyo Legacy&nbsp;"will be a landmark that could change the landscape for LGBTQ people in Japanese society," Matsunaka said.

The International Olympic Committee supported the move by adding that in sports, everyone is equal and thus the IOC is happy with the installation.&nbsp;

"We therefore welcome that Tokyo 2020 has embedded diversity and inclusion in the Olympic Games model," he said, wishing "the Pride House Tokyo success".

Tokyo has unveiled its first major community hub for the LGBTQ community as a part of the pre-Olympics project to fight against discrimination. The installation is called Pride House Tokyo and the campaigners are hoping to fight the stigma and raise awareness about the discrimination that the LGBTQ community faces.

Tokyo has unveiled its first major community hub for the LGBTQ community as a part of the pre-Olympics project to fight against discrimination. The installation is called Pride House Tokyo and the campaigners are hoping to fight the stigma and raise awareness about the discrimination that the LGBTQ community faces. This is similar to the inclusive pop-up sites that have been set up at past Olympics. However, Tokyo has set this up as a permanent meeting space. Through this, the authorities hope to educate the public about sexual diversity. Also read: 2021 Tokyo Marathon postponed until after Olympics Pride House will also provide a safe space to the people who undergo hardships and/or suffer harassment or discrimination. This is being seen as a powerful move as Japan is the only G7 country that does not allow/recognise same-sex relationships. "Japan, not just in sporting circles but society as a whole — including schools and workplaces — is not friendly to LGBTQ people, and it is hard to come out," Gon Matsunaka, who heads the project behind Pride House, told AFP. Pride House Tokyo Legacy "will be a landmark that could change the landscape for LGBTQ people in Japanese society," Matsunaka said. The International Olympic Committee supported the move by adding that in sports, everyone is equal and thus the IOC is happy with the installation. "We therefore welcome that Tokyo 2020 has embedded diversity and inclusion in the Olympic Games model," he said, wishing "the Pride House Tokyo success".

Matter of pride: Tokyo unveils LGBTQ landmark before Olympics

Keysha Atiki is only 10 but she can already lift her own body weight thanks to training with a coach who once competed in the Olympics - her grandmother. Mercy Obiero was only the second African woman to compete in weightlifting at the Olympics, representing her native Kenya in 2012.

Kenya's weightlifting Olympian granny trains daughter and granddaughter

World Athletics paved the way for changes to competition formats at the world championships or the Olympic Games when it published its 2020 guide to regulations and competitions on Monday.&nbsp;

The two major meetings of international athletics have been precluded thus far in hosting an "innovative" format, such as the introduction of a decisive final test in the long jump.

"World Championships and Olympic Games (are) no longer excluded from competitions where events may be held in an alternative format," said World Athletics in a press release.&nbsp;

In search of a larger and younger audience, international athletics regularly tries to innovate in its competition formats, by modifying competitions or by introducing elimination races.

The new formats have attracted some criticism from athletes.&nbsp;

In August, US triple-jumper Christian Taylor led the offensive at the Diamond League meeting in Stockholm which offered a modified long jump competition with the best three jumpers after five attempts qualifying for a final jump which decided the winner of the competition.

"I hope this idea will stop after this season," the double Olympic and four-time world champion tweeted at the time.

"I would like to understand how this could be better than the traditional format?"

After falling foul of coronavirus, the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo will now start in July 2021 with the world championships in Eugene, Oregon pushed back to 2022.

World Athletics paved the way for changes to competition formats at the world championships or the Olympic Games when it published its 2020 guide to regulations and competitions on Monday.

World Athletics paved the way for changes to competition formats at the world championships or the Olympic Games when it published its 2020 guide to regulations and competitions on Monday. The two major meetings of international athletics have been precluded thus far in hosting an "innovative" format, such as the introduction of a decisive final test in the long jump. "World Championships and Olympic Games (are) no longer excluded from competitions where events may be held in an alternative format," said World Athletics in a press release. In search of a larger and younger audience, international athletics regularly tries to innovate in its competition formats, by modifying competitions or by introducing elimination races. The new formats have attracted some criticism from athletes. In August, US triple-jumper Christian Taylor led the offensive at the Diamond League meeting in Stockholm which offered a modified long jump competition with the best three jumpers after five attempts qualifying for a final jump which decided the winner of the competition. "I hope this idea will stop after this season," the double Olympic and four-time world champion tweeted at the time. "I would like to understand how this could be better than the traditional format?" After falling foul of coronavirus, the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo will now start in July 2021 with the world championships in Eugene, Oregon pushed back to 2022.

World Athletics opens door for 'innovative' formats at Olympics

The coronavirus pandemic has been ruining a lot of lives in the induced lockdown. Weddings are wrecked, and honeymoons too.

One such is of a Japanese couple Rikiya and Ayumi Kataoka, who had their honeymoon wrecked by the coronavirus pandemic.

But they did not let the ordeal ruin dampen their spirit. In fact, their resourcefulness in enforced exile in Cape Verde has won them appointments as ambassadors for its Olympic team.

The Kataokas had completed a third of their round-the-world trip when a suspension in long-haul flights stranded them for five months in the archipelago of 10 tiny islands off the coast of West Africa.

Unable to resume their journey to Europe and then home to Japan and unwilling to head to the African mainland, where virus cases are spiking, they had to trade their skills with domestic businesses to earn funds in the absence of work visas.

But Cape Verde’s Olympics officials were so intrigued by the ties the couple had built with locals that they decided to include the Kataokas in their team heading to the rearranged games in Tokyo next July.

“They want me to be an ambassador of the Olympic team,” Rikiya told Reuters via Zoom, speaking from the island of Sal.&nbsp;

“When I go back to Tokyo, I will do a job for them.”

Cape Verde, who have never won an Olympic medal despite participating in every summer Games since 1996, hope to take three or four athletes to Tokyo.

Not only will the Kataokas be useful for their local knowledge but the islands’ officials hope the recognition helps repay the couple for their work in promoting the islands, where their plight turned them into minor celebrities.

“We felt the urge of giving back,” said Leonardo Cunha, the islands’ chef de mission for Tokyo.

“The guys are Japanese citizens and they deserve, in the name of the friendship we have with Japan, just to be well-treated,” he added.

“It was our interest to accompany them on their journey as well (and) making them part of our adventure in Japan.”

Miles from home with dwindling funds, the Kataokas could easily have panicked, but Rikiya, who occasionally works as a videographer back home, made social media videos here tagging hotels and restaurants, in exchange for lodging and food.

“I shot many things in restaurants and hotels, as a volunteer,” he said, adding that had prompted job offers.

“For example, the restaurant owner offered me a job... and then they gave me food for free.”

Wife Ayumi modelled for the shoots when not doubling as a reviewer.

That kind of enterprise could pay off in Japan for the Cape Verde Olympic Committee, which learnt of the couple when they moved into a hotel owned by American former windsurfing world champion Josh Angulo.

“You go to another planet, Planet Olympics,” said Cunha, describing the benefits for the Kataokas.

“When they will arrive there, they will be in shock, because it is so big and so emotional, they really will understand where our invitation comes from and what it will mean for them.”

The coronavirus pandemic has been ruining a lot of lives in the induced lockdown. Weddings are wrecked, and honeymoons too. One such is of a Japanese couple Rikiya and Ayumi Kataoka, who had their honeymoon wrecked by the coronavirus pandemic.

The coronavirus pandemic has been ruining a lot of lives in the induced lockdown. Weddings are wrecked, and honeymoons too. One such is of a Japanese couple Rikiya and Ayumi Kataoka, who had their honeymoon wrecked by the coronavirus pandemic. But they did not let the ordeal ruin dampen their spirit. In fact, their resourcefulness in enforced exile in Cape Verde has won them appointments as ambassadors for its Olympic team. The Kataokas had completed a third of their round-the-world trip when a suspension in long-haul flights stranded them for five months in the archipelago of 10 tiny islands off the coast of West Africa. Unable to resume their journey to Europe and then home to Japan and unwilling to head to the African mainland, where virus cases are spiking, they had to trade their skills with domestic businesses to earn funds in the absence of work visas. But Cape Verde’s Olympics officials were so intrigued by the ties the couple had built with locals that they decided to include the Kataokas in their team heading to the rearranged games in Tokyo next July. “They want me to be an ambassador of the Olympic team,” Rikiya told Reuters via Zoom, speaking from the island of Sal. “When I go back to Tokyo, I will do a job for them.” Cape Verde, who have never won an Olympic medal despite participating in every summer Games since 1996, hope to take three or four athletes to Tokyo. Not only will the Kataokas be useful for their local knowledge but the islands’ officials hope the recognition helps repay the couple for their work in promoting the islands, where their plight turned them into minor celebrities. “We felt the urge of giving back,” said Leonardo Cunha, the islands’ chef de mission for Tokyo. “The guys are Japanese citizens and they deserve, in the name of the friendship we have with Japan, just to be well-treated,” he added. “It was our interest to accompany them on their journey as well (and) making them part of our adventure in Japan.” Miles from home with dwindling funds, the Kataokas could easily have panicked, but Rikiya, who occasionally works as a videographer back home, made social media videos here tagging hotels and restaurants, in exchange for lodging and food. “I shot many things in restaurants and hotels, as a volunteer,” he said, adding that had prompted job offers. “For example, the restaurant owner offered me a job... and then they gave me food for free.” Wife Ayumi modelled for the shoots when not doubling as a reviewer. That kind of enterprise could pay off in Japan for the Cape Verde Olympic Committee, which learnt of the couple when they moved into a hotel owned by American former windsurfing world champion Josh Angulo. “You go to another planet, Planet Olympics,” said Cunha, describing the benefits for the Kataokas. “When they will arrive there, they will be in shock, because it is so big and so emotional, they really will understand where our invitation comes from and what it will mean for them.”

Stranded Japanese honeymooners end up as Cape Verde's Olympic team ambassadors

The quest for an Olympic medal can break even the best. Gagan Narang had been India's most successful shooter at the world stage post 2006 but his journey to the Olympics in 2004 and 2008 ended in heartbreak. Those defeats had affected the health of his parents as well but the versatile shooter was determined to stand on the Olympic podium. Narang opens up on the turmoil within and how those dark days drove him to Olympic glory at London.

WION Broadband Olympic Edition: How Personal Turmoil Drove Narang to Olympic Glory?

London 2012 was India's most successful Olympics with India's sports persons winning a record haul of 6 medals. Indian Shooting's rich legacy at the Olympics continued with Gagan Narang overcoming personal turmoil to end his wait for that treasured spot on the podium and Vijay Kumar winning Silver in Rapid Fire pistol. Joydeep Karmakar stunned the top names in Prone as he finished 4th and narrowly missed out on a medal.

WION Broadband Olympic Edition: Indian Shooting's Legacy Continues at London

The margin between victory and defeat at the Olympics can range from one-hundredth of a second to something even more measurable as 0.9 millimetres. An Olympic medal leads to sporting immortality but not many remember those who miss out. At the London Olympics, Joydeep Karmakar defied the odds and form books to finish 4th in the Men's Prone. Dismissed as nothing more than a tourist by many in the Indian sporting circles, Karmakar delivered his best at the biggest stage in world sport. 8 years later he admits he broke down seeing others on the podium but had no regrets having performed to the best of his abilities.

WION Broadband Olympic Edition: Karmakar's Narrow Miss at London

Sporting scenario in India completely changed after the country’s unparalleled success in the Beijing Olympics. While Abhinav Bindra clinched India’s first individual gold medal in the Games, Sushil Kumar and Vijender Singh bagged bronze in men’s freestyle wrestling and boxing events respectively. It was the first time in the history of Olympics that India won three medals - a historic event for the entire nation.&nbsp;

In an exclusive interview with WION’s Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo, Olympic medallist Sushil Kumar and Vijender Singh recalled the historic 2008 Beijing Games while explaining how it changed their lives and sporting scenario in the country.&nbsp;

<img alt="Sushil Kumar and Vijender Singh" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="af3d22db-014d-4823-8db3-e7e2f694769d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_Del222578.jpg" />

Sushil remains the only Indian sportsperson to have won two Olympic medals. The Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna-awardee remembered how his coach taugh him to be humble while adding that those three medals in Beijing Olympics changed the outlook of Indian sport.

“I consider it an honour to have won medals for India. My coach Satpal taught me to be humble and to focus on my sport. No one believed we could win Olympic medals in 2008 but those 3 medals changed the outlook of Indian sport. Today every young sportsperson wants to win a gold at the Olympics,” Sushil told WION.&nbsp;

Whereas Vijender said that both Abhinav Bindra and Sushil deserve Bharat Ratna for what they have done for the country and added that it would be a motivating aspect for budding sportspersons if the duo is awarded with India’s highest civilian honour.

“Abhinav bindra and Sushil deserve the Bharat Ratna for the achievements. I do not want to go into the past and which sportsperson deserves it more but it would be very motivating for budding sportspersons if these two are awarded India’s highest civilian honour. They are fully deserving of this respect,” Vijender told WION.

<img alt="Sushil Kumar" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a1e0e12f-fffb-42c1-98fd-0d6c8d19799c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_DV407012_0.jpg" />

In an interesting insight, Sushil revealed how Leander Paes’ bronze medal at 1996 Atlanta Olympics inspired him to become an Olympic medallist. Whereas for Vijender, it was Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore’s silver at Athens Olympics, which motivated him to be an Olympic medallist.

Our coach always told Yogeshwar Dutt and me that we have to win Olympic medals. But we had no idea what the Olympics meant or what an Olympic medal signified. Leander paes set an example in 1996 and that changed our complete focus as sportspersons. And now a new generation wants to emulate our success after seeing us on the medal podium,” recalled Sushil.

“I was 18-year-old when I qualified for Athens and I had to shave to look mature. I was blown over by the spectacle of the Olympics and had enjoyed myself thoroughly taking in the sights and sounds of the city. I saw how Rathore was celebrated after his medal and that told me that I had to win a medal to make a name. That was when I devoted myself to the target of winning an Olympic medal,” Vijender revealed.

The life of an Olympic medallist changes overnight and the same happened to Vijender and Sushil as they returned home amid a rousing reception and countless felicitation ceremonies.&nbsp;

“God has been kind. We both come from families that were not financially well-off and at times i am grateful to god for all that has come our way. The Olympic medal changed our lives and today young wrestlers who come from similar backgrounds look at us and believe that they too can emulate our success,” said Sushil.

“I have led life on my own terms. I won the Olympic medal due to my hard work and talent. I did not owe it to anyone and did what my heart told me,” said an ever-confident Vijender.

When asked how Indian sport changed between the 2008 and 2012 Olympics, Vijender said the phase brought a lot more limelight to Olympic athletes and Indian sport never looked back after that.

“A lot changed! There was space for Olympic athletes on the back pages that was usually reserved for cricket. The media interest grew and that sparked interest in a new generation of sport persons. Indian sport has not looked back ever since,” said Vijender.&nbsp;

<img alt="Vijender Singh" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1b0b2ea9-13cb-486f-847e-b4031c82181d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/jpg.jpg" />

The Rio Olympics witnessed India won just two medals with three Indians missing the podium narrowly at fourth. When asked whether the growth is a part of the legacy of Olympic medallists, Sushil said Olympic sports changed in India changed after 2008 and the youngsters blazing into the scene show how the gap has narrowed down completely.&nbsp;

“Olympic sports has changed in India after 2008. We are contending in sports that earlier we had no history in. Dipa Karmakar's 4th place finish in gymnastics at Rio was a bolt from the blue but it showed that the gap has narrowed down completely. We have world-class infrastructure now and that produces a new generation of champions,” Sushil concluded. 
&nbsp;

Sporting scenario in India completely changed after the country’s unparalleled success in the Beijing Olympics. While Abhinav Bindra clinched India’s first individual gold medal in the Games, Sushil Kumar and Vijender Singh bagged bronze in men’s freestyle wrestling and boxing events respectively.

Sporting scenario in India completely changed after the country’s unparalleled success in the Beijing Olympics. While Abhinav Bindra clinched India’s first individual gold medal in the Games, Sushil Kumar and Vijender Singh bagged bronze in men’s freestyle wrestling and boxing events respectively. It was the first time in the history of Olympics that India won three medals - a historic event for the entire nation. In an exclusive interview with WION’s Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo, Olympic medallist Sushil Kumar and Vijender Singh recalled the historic 2008 Beijing Games while explaining how it changed their lives and sporting scenario in the country. Sushil remains the only Indian sportsperson to have won two Olympic medals. The Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna-awardee remembered how his coach taugh him to be humble while adding that those three medals in Beijing Olympics changed the outlook of Indian sport. “I consider it an honour to have won medals for India. My coach Satpal taught me to be humble and to focus on my sport. No one believed we could win Olympic medals in 2008 but those 3 medals changed the outlook of Indian sport. Today every young sportsperson wants to win a gold at the Olympics,” Sushil told WION. Whereas Vijender said that both Abhinav Bindra and Sushil deserve Bharat Ratna for what they have done for the country and added that it would be a motivating aspect for budding sportspersons if the duo is awarded with India’s highest civilian honour. “Abhinav bindra and Sushil deserve the Bharat Ratna for the achievements. I do not want to go into the past and which sportsperson deserves it more but it would be very motivating for budding sportspersons if these two are awarded India’s highest civilian honour. They are fully deserving of this respect,” Vijender told WION. In an interesting insight, Sushil revealed how Leander Paes’ bronze medal at 1996 Atlanta Olympics inspired him to become an Olympic medallist. Whereas for Vijender, it was Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore’s silver at Athens Olympics, which motivated him to be an Olympic medallist. Our coach always told Yogeshwar Dutt and me that we have to win Olympic medals. But we had no idea what the Olympics meant or what an Olympic medal signified. Leander paes set an example in 1996 and that changed our complete focus as sportspersons. And now a new generation wants to emulate our success after seeing us on the medal podium,” recalled Sushil. “I was 18-year-old when I qualified for Athens and I had to shave to look mature. I was blown over by the spectacle of the Olympics and had enjoyed myself thoroughly taking in the sights and sounds of the city. I saw how Rathore was celebrated after his medal and that told me that I had to win a medal to make a name. That was when I devoted myself to the target of winning an Olympic medal,” Vijender revealed. The life of an Olympic medallist changes overnight and the same happened to Vijender and Sushil as they returned home amid a rousing reception and countless felicitation ceremonies. “God has been kind. We both come from families that were not financially well-off and at times i am grateful to god for all that has come our way. The Olympic medal changed our lives and today young wrestlers who come from similar backgrounds look at us and believe that they too can emulate our success,” said Sushil. “I have led life on my own terms. I won the Olympic medal due to my hard work and talent. I did not owe it to anyone and did what my heart told me,” said an ever-confident Vijender. When asked how Indian sport changed between the 2008 and 2012 Olympics, Vijender said the phase brought a lot more limelight to Olympic athletes and Indian sport never looked back after that. “A lot changed! There was space for Olympic athletes on the back pages that was usually reserved for cricket. The media interest grew and that sparked interest in a new generation of sport persons. Indian sport has not looked back ever since,” said Vijender. The Rio Olympics witnessed India won just two medals with three Indians missing the podium narrowly at fourth. When asked whether the growth is a part of the legacy of Olympic medallists, Sushil said Olympic sports changed in India changed after 2008 and the youngsters blazing into the scene show how the gap has narrowed down completely. “Olympic sports has changed in India after 2008. We are contending in sports that earlier we had no history in. Dipa Karmakar's 4th place finish in gymnastics at Rio was a bolt from the blue but it showed that the gap has narrowed down completely. We have world-class infrastructure now and that produces a new generation of champions,” Sushil concluded.

The heroes of Beijing 2008

Leander Paes gave India hope with a determined run into the semifinals at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics. At a time when Indian players struggled to win Grand Slam matches, Paes defied the odds by storming into the semis. Paes'charge was eventually ended by top seed Andre Agassi but not before the Tennis great was made to work hard for the win. Paes speaks to Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo on the emotions of that match and how an injury almost derailed his medal hopes.

WION Broadband Olympics Edition: How Paes made Agassi work hard for the win

Qatar will seek to host the 2032 Olympic Games, it said on Monday, joining a crowded field and raising questions about scorching summer temperatures and underwhelming attendances at past events.

India, Australia's Queensland state, the Chinese city of Shanghai and a potential joint bid between South and North Korea are also being touted for the 2032 summer games.

Under changes put forward in 2014, interested countries submit a request to join the non-committal "continuous dialogue", which Qatar confirmed to AFP it had done via a letter to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in Lausanne.

"Today's announcement marks the beginning of a meaningful dialogue with the IOC's Future Host Commission to explore our interest further and identify how the Olympic Games can support Qatar's long-term development goals," Qatar Olympic Committee president Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani told AFP in a statement.

Qatar unsuccessfully bid to host the 2016 and 2020 games, having proposed to host the former in October without first clearing it with the IOC.&nbsp;

It won a waiver to propose hosting the 2020 games, a joint bid with Baku, Azerbaijan, between September 20 and October 20, but failed to make the shortlist.

The 2020 games, postponed to 2021 because of the coronavirus pandemic, were awarded to Japan, which also experiences searing summer temperatures, leading officials to schedule events early in the morning when conditions are coolest.

"Qatar has earned the reputation of a world-class destination for major sporting events," added Sheikh Joaan, brother of Qatar's ruler Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani.

"It is this proven track-record and wealth of experience, along with our desire to use sport to promote peace and cultural exchange, that will form the basis of our discussions with the Commission."

Summer temperatures can reach 50 degrees celsius (122 degrees Fahrenheit) in the nation which abuts the Arabian desert. Heat and humidity were major issues during the road races at last year's World Athletics Championships held in Doha.&nbsp;

The event was shifted to late September and October over concerns about the gas-rich state's climate and marathons and race walks were held at midnight.&nbsp;

Even so, humidity hovered around 73 percent and the temperature was 33 degrees Celsius (91 degrees Fahrenheit) for much of the women's marathon and images of the runners collapsing and gasping for air led to questions over Qatar's suitability to host outdoor events outside the cooler winter months.&nbsp;

<h2>- 'Huge interest' -</h2>

Perhaps the most stinging off-track criticism of the 10-day World Athletics event was sparked by the spectacle of a near-empty stadium during the opening days, raising fears for World Cup attendances in 2022 and at other sporting events.

IAAF President Sebastian Coe said he was more worried about conditions at the Tokyo Olympics, where summer temperatures have pushed organisers to schedule events for the early morning.

Qatar will host the 2022 World Cup after a bid process that has been attacked by some European nations and media outlets as corrupt, although Doha insists it won fairly.&nbsp;

Discriminatory labour practices and human rights issues facing the migrant labourers building infrastructure for 2022 have been subject to intense scrutiny and criticism since Qatar won the bid in 2010.

"We in the International Olympic Committee are happy with the huge interest in the 2032 Summer Olympics, 12 years before the launch of the games. We are in a great position," IOC president Thomas Bach said in an interview with Qatar-based broadcaster BeIN on Friday.&nbsp;

"We made sure that our new approach to this kind of intentions works well. We launched a dialogue between the interested national Olympic committees and a special commission in the IOC. Naturally, we welcome Qatar to join this dialogue."

If Qatar were successful, it would be the first time the event had been held in the Middle East.

Qatar will seek to host the 2032 Olympic Games, it said on Monday, joining a crowded field and raising questions about scorching summer temperatures and underwhelming attendances at past events.

Qatar will seek to host the 2032 Olympic Games, it said on Monday, joining a crowded field and raising questions about scorching summer temperatures and underwhelming attendances at past events. India, Australia's Queensland state, the Chinese city of Shanghai and a potential joint bid between South and North Korea are also being touted for the 2032 summer games. Under changes put forward in 2014, interested countries submit a request to join the non-committal "continuous dialogue", which Qatar confirmed to AFP it had done via a letter to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in Lausanne. "Today's announcement marks the beginning of a meaningful dialogue with the IOC's Future Host Commission to explore our interest further and identify how the Olympic Games can support Qatar's long-term development goals," Qatar Olympic Committee president Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani told AFP in a statement. Qatar unsuccessfully bid to host the 2016 and 2020 games, having proposed to host the former in October without first clearing it with the IOC. It won a waiver to propose hosting the 2020 games, a joint bid with Baku, Azerbaijan, between September 20 and October 20, but failed to make the shortlist. The 2020 games, postponed to 2021 because of the coronavirus pandemic, were awarded to Japan, which also experiences searing summer temperatures, leading officials to schedule events early in the morning when conditions are coolest. "Qatar has earned the reputation of a world-class destination for major sporting events," added Sheikh Joaan, brother of Qatar's ruler Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani. "It is this proven track-record and wealth of experience, along with our desire to use sport to promote peace and cultural exchange, that will form the basis of our discussions with the Commission." Summer temperatures can reach 50 degrees celsius (122 degrees Fahrenheit) in the nation which abuts the Arabian desert. Heat and humidity were major issues during the road races at last year's World Athletics Championships held in Doha. The event was shifted to late September and October over concerns about the gas-rich state's climate and marathons and race walks were held at midnight. Even so, humidity hovered around 73 percent and the temperature was 33 degrees Celsius (91 degrees Fahrenheit) for much of the women's marathon and images of the runners collapsing and gasping for air led to questions over Qatar's suitability to host outdoor events outside the cooler winter months. - 'Huge interest' - Perhaps the most stinging off-track criticism of the 10-day World Athletics event was sparked by the spectacle of a near-empty stadium during the opening days, raising fears for World Cup attendances in 2022 and at other sporting events. IAAF President Sebastian Coe said he was more worried about conditions at the Tokyo Olympics, where summer temperatures have pushed organisers to schedule events for the early morning. Qatar will host the 2022 World Cup after a bid process that has been attacked by some European nations and media outlets as corrupt, although Doha insists it won fairly. Discriminatory labour practices and human rights issues facing the migrant labourers building infrastructure for 2022 have been subject to intense scrutiny and criticism since Qatar won the bid in 2010. "We in the International Olympic Committee are happy with the huge interest in the 2032 Summer Olympics, 12 years before the launch of the games. We are in a great position," IOC president Thomas Bach said in an interview with Qatar-based broadcaster BeIN on Friday. "We made sure that our new approach to this kind of intentions works well. We launched a dialogue between the interested national Olympic committees and a special commission in the IOC. Naturally, we welcome Qatar to join this dialogue." If Qatar were successful, it would be the first time the event had been held in the Middle East.

Qatar confirms plan to bid for 2032 Olympics

Tokyo residents on Thursday (July 23) skeptically looked forward to another year-long wait for the Olympics after this year's scheduled Games were delayed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Tokyo residents skeptically look forward to another year-long wait for Olympics

Tokyo Olympics organisers are preparing to host the Games next year even if the global coronavirus pandemic hasn’t eased substantially, organising committee chief executive Toshiro Muto told Reuters on Tuesday.

The Tokyo Olympics had been scheduled to start on Friday but were put back to 2021 because of the pandemic.

Since then, organisers have scrambled to rearrange an event that has been almost a decade in the making whilst trying to ensure next year’s Olympics are safe for athletes, officials and supporters.

Muto said that although organisers hoped the threat posed by the virus could be reduced, nobody knows what the situation will be when the Games start on July 23, 2021.

Organisers are assuming coronavirus will remain a major problem.

“It is rather difficult for us to expect that the coronavirus pandemic is contained,” Muto told Reuters. “But if we can deliver the Games in Tokyo with coronavirus, Tokyo can be the role model for the next Olympic Games or other various international events.”

Muto said he hoped Tokyo 2020 could be the benchmark in a post-pandemic world.

“By delivering the Games successfully in Tokyo we strongly hope that can create a legacy that is in the history of mankind.”

<h3>NEW SPONSORS</h3>

The delay to the Games will incur additional costs for organisers.

Toshiro Muto, Tokyo 2020 Organizing Committee Chief Executive Officer, poses for a photograph during an interview with Reuters ahead of the one-year countdown to the Tokyo Olympics that have been postponed to 2021 due to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak, in Tokyo, Japan July 21, 2020. Picture taken July 21, 2020. REUTERS/Issei Kato

The International Olympic Committee has already estimated that the postponement will cost them $800 million but the Japanese side has been less forthcoming in giving exact figures.

Muto said the final figure wouldn’t be known until December but hoped that bringing on new sponsors, despite the grim economic forecast, would help bridge the gap.

“I know that businesses are in dire circumstances because of coronavirus but still there are companies who are coming forward to say they want to sponsor the Games, which we appreciate very much,” Muto said.

“It is a bright piece of news.”

On Wednesday, Tokyo 2020 announced that Tokyo Skytree, the tallest tower in the world, is joining as a new Games sponsor.

Muto said he hoped all of Tokyo 2020’s current sponsors would extend their contracts until the start of the Games next year, although this will come at a cost.

A poll conducted by Japanese public broadcaster NHK last month found two-thirds of Tokyo 2020’s corporate sponsors were undecided on whether to continue their support.

“We are hoping that there will be additional contributions (from existing sponsors) in terms of sponsorship fee because of the postponement of a year,” Muto said. “We would appreciate a lot if they agree to this.”

Muto did not give the names of any other new sponsors.

<h3>SEPTEMBER MEETINGS</h3>

The Games were already set to cost more than 1.35 trillion yen before the postponement, and increased spending might further alienate a public already sceptical of an Olympics they once embraced.

A recent poll conducted by Kyodo News found that fewer than one in four favoured holding the Games as scheduled next year.

Muto said meetings would be held starting in September, with members of the Japanese government and the local Tokyo Metropolitan Government on how best to rebuild support for the Games.

“By making a nationwide effort to implement all possible, conceivable measures to battle coronavirus, the people of the world will be able to come to Tokyo with a peace of mind,” he said. “Once we create such an environment, I think people’s opinions will change.”

Tokyo Olympics organisers are preparing to host the Games next year even if the global coronavirus pandemic hasn’t eased substantially, organising committee chief executive Toshiro Muto told Reuters on Tuesday.

Tokyo Olympics organisers are preparing to host the Games next year even if the global coronavirus pandemic hasn’t eased substantially, organising committee chief executive Toshiro Muto told Reuters on Tuesday. The Tokyo Olympics had been scheduled to start on Friday but were put back to 2021 because of the pandemic. Since then, organisers have scrambled to rearrange an event that has been almost a decade in the making whilst trying to ensure next year’s Olympics are safe for athletes, officials and supporters. Muto said that although organisers hoped the threat posed by the virus could be reduced, nobody knows what the situation will be when the Games start on July 23, 2021. Organisers are assuming coronavirus will remain a major problem. “It is rather difficult for us to expect that the coronavirus pandemic is contained,” Muto told Reuters. “But if we can deliver the Games in Tokyo with coronavirus, Tokyo can be the role model for the next Olympic Games or other various international events.” Muto said he hoped Tokyo 2020 could be the benchmark in a post-pandemic world. “By delivering the Games successfully in Tokyo we strongly hope that can create a legacy that is in the history of mankind.” NEW SPONSORS The delay to the Games will incur additional costs for organisers. Toshiro Muto, Tokyo 2020 Organizing Committee Chief Executive Officer, poses for a photograph during an interview with Reuters ahead of the one-year countdown to the Tokyo Olympics that have been postponed to 2021 due to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak, in Tokyo, Japan July 21, 2020. Picture taken July 21, 2020. REUTERS/Issei Kato The International Olympic Committee has already estimated that the postponement will cost them $800 million but the Japanese side has been less forthcoming in giving exact figures. Muto said the final figure wouldn’t be known until December but hoped that bringing on new sponsors, despite the grim economic forecast, would help bridge the gap. “I know that businesses are in dire circumstances because of coronavirus but still there are companies who are coming forward to say they want to sponsor the Games, which we appreciate very much,” Muto said. “It is a bright piece of news.” On Wednesday, Tokyo 2020 announced that Tokyo Skytree, the tallest tower in the world, is joining as a new Games sponsor. Muto said he hoped all of Tokyo 2020’s current sponsors would extend their contracts until the start of the Games next year, although this will come at a cost. A poll conducted by Japanese public broadcaster NHK last month found two-thirds of Tokyo 2020’s corporate sponsors were undecided on whether to continue their support. “We are hoping that there will be additional contributions (from existing sponsors) in terms of sponsorship fee because of the postponement of a year,” Muto said. “We would appreciate a lot if they agree to this.” Muto did not give the names of any other new sponsors. SEPTEMBER MEETINGS The Games were already set to cost more than 1.35 trillion yen before the postponement, and increased spending might further alienate a public already sceptical of an Olympics they once embraced. A recent poll conducted by Kyodo News found that fewer than one in four favoured holding the Games as scheduled next year. Muto said meetings would be held starting in September, with members of the Japanese government and the local Tokyo Metropolitan Government on how best to rebuild support for the Games. “By making a nationwide effort to implement all possible, conceivable measures to battle coronavirus, the people of the world will be able to come to Tokyo with a peace of mind,” he said. “Once we create such an environment, I think people’s opinions will change.”

Tokyo 2020 preparing to deliver Games with COVID-19 - CEO Muto

Thomas Bach said Friday he will stand in 2021 for a second term as president of the International Olympic Committee.

The 66-year-old German was elected for an eight-year term as Olympic chief in September 2013, taking over from Belgian Jacques Rogge. Bach will be eligible for a second and final four-year term.

Speaking at the 136th IOC Session, held virtually because of the coronavirus pandemic, Bach said: "If you, the IOC members, want, I am ready to run for a second term as IOC president and to continue to serve you and this Olympic movement we all love so much for another four years."

The IOC presidential elections are slated to take place in Athens in June 2021.

Bach, who won gold for West Germany in the foil fencing team event at the 1976 Olympics, claimed a large number of IOC members had recently approached him asking if he would seek re-election.

"I am grateful and deeply touched by the many words of encouragement and confidence," Bach said.

<h2>- Influential -</h2>

Elected an IOC member at the age of 37, Bach went on to play a series of influential roles within the organisation before being elected its ninth president.

He served as vice-president three times and was also chairman of the legal commission and head of anti-doping investigations.

Bach says his involvement in sports politics was sparked by West Germany's boycott of the 1980 Games in Moscow over the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, and the government's disregard for athletes' concerns.

In 1981, he was elected as the Olympic athletes' spokesperson at the IOC Congress.

Under his reign as IOC chief, Bach has had to grapple with several political challenges, and has notably overseen the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics and the 2016 Rio Summer Games, both perceived as the most troublesome in recent years.

He has also been a key player in the ongoing Russian doping saga, although the IOC came in for criticism from some quarters for not issuing Moscow with a blanket ban over its state-sponsored doping system.

Bach also came under fire for reinstating the Russian National Olympic Committee after the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics despite failed drugs tests there.

He is credited, however, with having put in place the Olympic Agenda 2020, reforms aimed at cutting costs and streamlining bidding processes to better attract potential host cities.

But the German lawyer and businessman could well have his biggest challenge ahead of him, in the form of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In a historic move, the Tokyo Olympics were in March postponed until 2021 -- a first in peacetime.

There are fears over whether the Games will even go ahead next year, while Beijing is scheduled to host the 2022 Winter Olympics, just six months later.

Thomas Bach said Friday he will stand in 2021 for a second term as president of the International Olympic Committee. The 66-year-old German was elected for an eight-year term as Olympic chief in September 2013, taking over from Belgian Jacques Rogge.

Thomas Bach said Friday he will stand in 2021 for a second term as president of the International Olympic Committee. The 66-year-old German was elected for an eight-year term as Olympic chief in September 2013, taking over from Belgian Jacques Rogge. Bach will be eligible for a second and final four-year term. Speaking at the 136th IOC Session, held virtually because of the coronavirus pandemic, Bach said: "If you, the IOC members, want, I am ready to run for a second term as IOC president and to continue to serve you and this Olympic movement we all love so much for another four years." The IOC presidential elections are slated to take place in Athens in June 2021. Bach, who won gold for West Germany in the foil fencing team event at the 1976 Olympics, claimed a large number of IOC members had recently approached him asking if he would seek re-election. "I am grateful and deeply touched by the many words of encouragement and confidence," Bach said. - Influential - Elected an IOC member at the age of 37, Bach went on to play a series of influential roles within the organisation before being elected its ninth president. He served as vice-president three times and was also chairman of the legal commission and head of anti-doping investigations. Bach says his involvement in sports politics was sparked by West Germany's boycott of the 1980 Games in Moscow over the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, and the government's disregard for athletes' concerns. In 1981, he was elected as the Olympic athletes' spokesperson at the IOC Congress. Under his reign as IOC chief, Bach has had to grapple with several political challenges, and has notably overseen the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics and the 2016 Rio Summer Games, both perceived as the most troublesome in recent years. He has also been a key player in the ongoing Russian doping saga, although the IOC came in for criticism from some quarters for not issuing Moscow with a blanket ban over its state-sponsored doping system. Bach also came under fire for reinstating the Russian National Olympic Committee after the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics despite failed drugs tests there. He is credited, however, with having put in place the Olympic Agenda 2020, reforms aimed at cutting costs and streamlining bidding processes to better attract potential host cities. But the German lawyer and businessman could well have his biggest challenge ahead of him, in the form of the COVID-19 pandemic. In a historic move, the Tokyo Olympics were in March postponed until 2021 -- a first in peacetime. There are fears over whether the Games will even go ahead next year, while Beijing is scheduled to host the 2022 Winter Olympics, just six months later.

Olympic chief Thomas Bach to stand for second term

With just over a year to go until the Tokyo Olympics, medical experts say the event could pose a grave health risk to the Japanese public, predicting that few people will have coronavirus antibodies and that vaccines will not be widely available.

Olympic organisers and the Japanese and Tokyo metropolitan governments are scrambling for steps to prevent the pandemic from derailing the event. But they say concrete plans are unlikely to shape up before the end of this year.

The global death toll from COVID-19, the respiratory illness caused by the new coronavirus, reached half a million late last month, and cases topped 10 million.

Although Tokyo on Thursday confirmed 224 new infections, a record high for a single day, Japan has largely avoided the disastrous effects seen in other countries.

That has scientists and medical experts concerned about how things might look next summer, a year after the Tokyo Games were postponed.

In interviews with a dozen infectious diseases experts, a common theme emerged: the Olympics would increase the risk of an outbreak.

“Infection will flare up if we push ahead with the Olympics and hold them. There is no doubt about it,” said Daiichi Morii, a doctor at Osaka University Hospital’s infection control team.

“The virus is barely under control as we are putting a halt on the inflow of people from overseas,” Morii added. “With events like the Olympics, the virus will come in for sure and the number of infections will shoot up inevitably.”

Japan’s success in containing the virus is part of the reason. A recent government survey showed only 0.1% of Tokyo residents have coronavirus antibodies. That is much lower than 14% in the state of New York in April, and 7% in Stockholm.

“Very few are infected in Japan and pretty much everyone is susceptible,” said Katsunori Yanagihara, professor in Nagasaki University’s school of tropical medicine and global health.

Antibodies help fight off infections, and scientists say having antibodies for the coronavirus might provide protection against re-infection. &nbsp;&nbsp;

There are more than 100 potential vaccines in development, but experts say none will likely be available in enough quantity in time for the Olympics, which involves about 200 countries.

“Even if a vaccine has been developed by then, it’s near impossible for it to go around the world,” said Atsuo Hamada, a professor at Tokyo Medical University Hospital.

A Tokyo voter survey by the Asahi Shimbun daily late last month showed that 59 percent of those polled believe the Olympics should be cancelled or postponed again, underscoring the public’s nagging worries about the pandemic.

In a bid to address such concerns, Yoshiro Mori, head of the Tokyo Olympic organising committee, on Monday told the capital’s governor, Yuriko Koike, that he planned to set up a task force with the central and metropolitan governments by September.

In the meeting, they discussed infection screening for foreign visitors and limiting crowd sizes, public broadcaster NHK reported.

Japan has had only about 20,000 cases and 980 deaths. Researchers have cited various factors for those low numbers, from the nation’s robust healthcare system to infrequent hugging and handshaking. But they say there is no clear single reason for the country’s success.

Norio Sugaya, a member of the World Health Organization’s influenza panel, said people in Japan should not feel secure just because of the relatively small scale of infections and deaths there so far.

“Talks about how Japan has ridden out the first wave successfully. Talks about ‘Japan miracle’. Those make me very worried,” Sugaya said. “It’s terrifying if there are people out there who believe Japan is invincible.”

With just over a year to go until the Tokyo Olympics, medical experts say the event could pose a grave health risk to the Japanese public, predicting that few people will have coronavirus antibodies and that vaccines will not be widely available.

With just over a year to go until the Tokyo Olympics, medical experts say the event could pose a grave health risk to the Japanese public, predicting that few people will have coronavirus antibodies and that vaccines will not be widely available. Olympic organisers and the Japanese and Tokyo metropolitan governments are scrambling for steps to prevent the pandemic from derailing the event. But they say concrete plans are unlikely to shape up before the end of this year. The global death toll from COVID-19, the respiratory illness caused by the new coronavirus, reached half a million late last month, and cases topped 10 million. Although Tokyo on Thursday confirmed 224 new infections, a record high for a single day, Japan has largely avoided the disastrous effects seen in other countries. That has scientists and medical experts concerned about how things might look next summer, a year after the Tokyo Games were postponed. In interviews with a dozen infectious diseases experts, a common theme emerged: the Olympics would increase the risk of an outbreak. “Infection will flare up if we push ahead with the Olympics and hold them. There is no doubt about it,” said Daiichi Morii, a doctor at Osaka University Hospital’s infection control team. “The virus is barely under control as we are putting a halt on the inflow of people from overseas,” Morii added. “With events like the Olympics, the virus will come in for sure and the number of infections will shoot up inevitably.” Japan’s success in containing the virus is part of the reason. A recent government survey showed only 0.1% of Tokyo residents have coronavirus antibodies. That is much lower than 14% in the state of New York in April, and 7% in Stockholm. “Very few are infected in Japan and pretty much everyone is susceptible,” said Katsunori Yanagihara, professor in Nagasaki University’s school of tropical medicine and global health. Antibodies help fight off infections, and scientists say having antibodies for the coronavirus might provide protection against re-infection. There are more than 100 potential vaccines in development, but experts say none will likely be available in enough quantity in time for the Olympics, which involves about 200 countries. “Even if a vaccine has been developed by then, it’s near impossible for it to go around the world,” said Atsuo Hamada, a professor at Tokyo Medical University Hospital. A Tokyo voter survey by the Asahi Shimbun daily late last month showed that 59 percent of those polled believe the Olympics should be cancelled or postponed again, underscoring the public’s nagging worries about the pandemic. In a bid to address such concerns, Yoshiro Mori, head of the Tokyo Olympic organising committee, on Monday told the capital’s governor, Yuriko Koike, that he planned to set up a task force with the central and metropolitan governments by September. In the meeting, they discussed infection screening for foreign visitors and limiting crowd sizes, public broadcaster NHK reported. Japan has had only about 20,000 cases and 980 deaths. Researchers have cited various factors for those low numbers, from the nation’s robust healthcare system to infrequent hugging and handshaking. But they say there is no clear single reason for the country’s success. Norio Sugaya, a member of the World Health Organization’s influenza panel, said people in Japan should not feel secure just because of the relatively small scale of infections and deaths there so far. “Talks about how Japan has ridden out the first wave successfully. Talks about ‘Japan miracle’. Those make me very worried,” Sugaya said. “It’s terrifying if there are people out there who believe Japan is invincible.”

With one year to go, experts warn of high-risk Tokyo Olympics amid pandemic

Argentine wildwater canoeing slalom racer Sebastian Rossi has found an innovative way to continue his training amid the ongoing novel coronavirus pandemic.

Argentine canoeist trains in his girlfriend's pool to prep for 2021 Olympics

Former Indian hockey coach said that 'Olympics should be delayed'

Michael Nobbs, former Indian hockey Coach

India's only individual Olympic champion Abhinav Bindra believes athletes the world over will have to adapt to changing circumstances to stay in shape for the 2021 Olympics. The International Olympic Committee or IOC has pushed the start of the Tokyo games by exactly a year to July 23, 2021 which ends the prevailing uncertainty in the minds of Olympic hopefuls. Bindra was speaking exclusively to WION's Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo on our special show, WION Sports Broadband Edition.

Olympic champ Bindra calls on athletes worldwide to adapt to changed circumstances

Eight-time Commonwealth Games and two-time Asian Game medalist, Indian table-tennis icon Achanta Sharath Kamal, in an exclusive interview with WION's Sports Editor, Digvijay Singh Deo, spoke about life in lockdown, future of table tennis, travelling abroad for tournaments after COVID-19 crisis, Tokyo Olympics, his medal-laden career, the concept of quarantine camp, and much more.

Digvijay Singh Deo: I must say Sharath, I have been seeing a lot of you addressing webinars through this crisis. Seems like you have been keeping busy.

Sharath Kamal: I feel it is the responsibility of the senior athletes to guide the others through these tough times, so I've been trying to help them through webinars. There is a lot of uncertainty and anxiety about the future and there is a need to motivate people and spread positive messages.

DSD: Has it been frustrating not being able to play and adjusting to this new phase?

Sharath Kamal: Yes, initially it was very frustrating. For the first week of the lockdown, I failed to accept the situation and hence found it very tough to deal with. It was very frustrating to not be able to go out and train. But then I realised that there is no point dwelling on the things that I cannot control. Now, I follow a training schedule with whatever resources I have and play a little bit of table tennis at my mother's house since there is a table at her place. Also, it was tough to deal with the postponement of the Tokyo Olympics, because I was in good form leading up to the games and my world ranking had improved to 31.

DSD: This forced break came at a crucial time for you when you were carrying some momentum and were going to take it into the Olympic qualifiers, in a way you have to start from scratch for the 2021 Olympics.

Sharath Kamal: The sportsperson's body is like a sports car. The moment you stop taking care of it, it gets rusty and doesn't perform. In terms of our preparation for the games, we have to go back to the drawing board, so it is a mental challenge as well. We will need a couple of months of training and a few matches under our belt to figure out what the best way is to prepare for the games. It is definitely going to be an uphill task. The only positive is that all the athletes around the world are in the same boat.

DSD: I did see some visuals of your teammate Sathiyan Gnanasekaran practising on a home table with a robot machine he had imported. Technology has been a boon through this process, be it communication or even playing.

Sharath Kamal: I feel one must find a way to keep in touch with the sport. There is a lot of skill involved in racket sports and a player must not lose the feel of the game. One must not allow skill levels to drop to a great extent, otherwise, it will be very tough for the player when the sport resumes. It is important to train, but high-level training is only possible when you have a goal in mind and something to work towards. As of now, there is no schedule of tournaments and we have no idea when the sport will resume.

DSD: For an elite player like you, how long do you think it will take to return to peak match fitness?

Sharath Kamal: I have been participating in webinars with some fitness experts, and they believe that it will take athletes at least 3 months to regain even 80% of their mental and physical fitness. This is an unprecedented crisis and no one really has concrete answers. In the past, I have been out of action for six months due to injury, but that situation was completely different because I was working on rehabilitation and had a goal to work towards. This period is just filled with uncertainty.

<img alt="Achanta Sharath Kamal" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="03a22508-9390-4c4c-b3c8-b759e5b113b6" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_18Q65C.jpg" />

DSD: You are soon to turn 38 but that hasn’t slowed you down, look around you and there is a generation of golden oldies going very strong in Indian sport be it Mary Kom, Rohan Bopanna or even the biggest of them all Leander Paes. What is the secret of this longevity, there are some who believe that it is the older and wiser heads who will be able to adapt better once action resumes.

Sharath Kamal: Yes, that is possible. However, there have been other reports as well, which make the point that older athletes might lose motivation because of the break. I have been taking an annual one month break for the last 3-4 years. At my age, I think it is important to take a mental and physical break and it also allows me to spend some time with my family. I try to unwind during that period and come back with a fresh mentality. The advantage that I have, being an experienced player, is that I know what parts of my game I will work on once I return. It will be impossible to cover every aspect of your game in the limited time which we will get for preparation. &nbsp;There is a broad plan that I have in mind and I will work in that direction. Mostly, I will look to sharpen my strengths rather than work on my weaknesses.

DSD: Sharath as one of the senior-most players in the world and with a young family have you thought about travelling abroad for tournaments. It’s a tough situation to be in isn't it especially with rankings so important to the Olympic qualifying process.

Sharath Kamal: Yes, in fact, I was dealing with the very same problem in March. My family advised me against travelling for the Oman Open because the coronavirus had started spreading rapidly at that time. Even though the risk of transmission was high at the airports, I went for the tournament against my family's wishes because it was important for me to get some match practice ahead of the Olympic qualifiers, which were scheduled for April at the time. That dilemma is bound to come up again in the near future. However, the priority must be the safety and health of me and my family. I have decided that I will not travel abroad for any tournament at least till September and the way things are going I doubt if any event will take place till then. There is also a question mark over whether international travel will be allowed in the near future and if it is, what will be the quarantine laws for athletes? There is really no point of me travelling to another country if I have to spend two weeks in quarantine before a particular tournament.

DSD: There is talk of international tournaments abandoning the doubles and mixed doubles format for the time being. Isn't that completely unfair on specialist players. The IOC says all sports should be fair to athletes and how is this a fair process?

Sharath Kamal: I don't know why they took that decision. Mixed doubles is an Olympic event, while the men's and women's doubles are also part of the team championships at the Olympics. I fail to see the sense behind a ban on those events since the Olympics are only a year away. Manika Batra and I have a fair chance of qualifying for the Games, we won the bronze medal at the Asian games and we have a small chance of winning a medal at the Olympics as well. So it's not fair to scrap those events. Also, when we travel to tournaments, we anyway spend a lot of time together during our travel and meals. I am bound to be in contact with say, Sathiyan or Manika, so what difference does it make if we play a doubles match together?

<img alt="Achanta Sharath Kamal" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="86836054-d721-4d19-88e6-d947c8f1ed2b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_18P8SZ.jpg" />

DSD: Has the pandemic forced international bodies into panic mode. Table tennis isn't a contact sport and as long as players are tested regularly and the playing arena is sanitised, it shouldn't be a problem...

Sharath Kamal: I was watching the German Bundesliga the other day and the substitutes were sitting on the bench while maintaining social distancing measures. I fail to understand the point of such a measure when there are 22 players on the football field who are constantly coming in contact with each other. This is an example of a decision that is just taken for the public perception of safety. The Badminton World Federation also just put out dates for the tournaments without having a clear plan in mind, we have no idea what travel restrictions will be put in place in the future I think every sporting body needs to have contingency plans in place for the calendar. In table tennis, the World Championships, which were initially scheduled in March, can be pushed back to the latter part of the year, since it is an important tournament. But there is no point preparing a schedule in panic mode.

DSD: It felt like a threshold had been crossed by Indian table tennis at the Asian Games in 2018 with you and Manika Batra winning a mixed bronze, has it given you the confidence to challenge for medals at the Olympics and World Championships.

Sharath Kamal: Absolutely, it was a huge boost for us to win a medal at the Asian Games, which has traditionally been dominated by countries like China, Japan and South Korea. These are the powerhouses of the sport and it was great to be at the podium. I should really hand it to Manika Batra, she was playing some truly outstanding table tennis during that mixed doubles event. I would say she played even better than what she did at the Commonwealth Games. She was able to carry her form from the CWG to the Asian games. Earlier, we were just hoping for a good performance when we went to the Olympics, but now we actually believe we can win a medal for the country. The image of Indian table tennis has changed in the entire world. Many international players wouldn't know the names of the Indian opponents, but all that has changed now. &nbsp;They know exactly who they are facing and Indian players are seen as serious competition. So, there has been a major change in the perception of Indian table tennis.

DSD: What is the change Sharath, you have been toiling hard on the international tour for 2 decades now and finally last 2-3 years the breakthrough has happened. How close are we to a World Championship and Olympic medal now?

Sharath Kamal: There have been a lot of changes that have been made in Indian tennis over the last few years. Before the Commonwealth Games in 2006, I decided to play in Europe and hence my game improved a lot. I think after that a lot of Indian youngsters started playing in European countries and that considerably raised the level of Indian table tennis. &nbsp;Four Indian paddlers secured their place at the Olympics for the first time at the 2016 Rio Games and that led to an increase in funding for the sport. We then hired top quality foreign coaches, who along with the table tennis federation of India and the sports authority of India, came up with a long-term plan. Now, there is a structure in place which allows us, Indian players, to travel abroad and get access to the best facilities for high-level performances at global events.

The franchise-based Ultimate Table Tennis League, which started in 2017, was also a game-changer. It allowed young Indian players to compete and train with the best in the world. I went to Europe so that I could play with the best in the business and now the young Indian players have the opportunity of doing just that in India itself. Sathiyan Gnanasekaran and Manika Batra were the finds of the 2017 edition of the league. Then in 2018, Archana Kamath and Manav Thakkar emerged as strong talents, Thakkar is world no.1 in the U-21 category. Being a senior player, I made it a point to guide and mentor these youngsters. When I was young, I felt my development would have been fast-tracked if had a senior to show me the ropes. I think it was a huge advantage that I was able to pass on my experience, while still competing with them. Initially, they were a bit wary of the fact that I was giving them advice, while still being their opponent, but they gradually understood the point of the guidance and learnt to accept it that way.

DSD: Now training protocols have been announced by sports authority of India and you were asked if you wanted to join a national camp but the players have refused now. What is the road ahead, when do you think you will be able to return to training in groups?

Sharath Kamal: At the moment, training in groups is a big no. The guidelines that SAI came up with were for the athletes who were already at the facilities during the lockdown. They have invited us to camps, but at the moment there is no point of attending those them because we don't know when the next tournament will be held. I think it is unsafe for us to travel to any SAI facility. We as athletes need to wait for another month at least before we resume training in groups at any facility. Sathiyan and I live in the same city, but at the moment I don't think it will be wise for us to venture out given the rise in the number of cases in Chennai.

<img alt="Achanta Sharath Kamal" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1b9f62fb-6e70-442e-8d3a-ea8e8bca40a4" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_Hkg2335562.jpg" />

DSD: Does the concept of a quarantine camp work for you where everyone is together in a sanitised environment or there can be no substitute for tournament play...

Sharath Kamal:&nbsp;I think when we speak about quarantine camps, the players aren't the only ones who need to be protected, there will be multiple staff present at the venue and there will always be a worry about the health and safety of all the personnel at the facility. It is very hard to focus on your training when you don't feel completely secure, that worry will always be there at the back of your mind. We still need to wait for things to improve before making a proper decision.

DSD: Would you be willing to head to the Olympics if no vaccine is found by then and should the Olympics then go ahead as many are now fearing.

Sharath Kamal: At a mega-event like the Olympics, social distancing is virtually impossible because there are so many people at the village. I think it is highly unlikely that the Olympics will take place without a vaccine. If that is the case, it will be a huge setback for me personally because I don't know if I will still be playing when the next Games happen in 2024. So I really hope a vaccine is developed soon, not just for selfish reasons, but also for the good of humanity.

Eight-time Commonwealth Games and two-time Asian Game medalist, Indian table-tennis icon Achanta Sharath Kamal, in an exclusive interview with WION's Sports Editor, Digvijay Singh Deo, spoke about life in lockdown, future of table tennis, travelling abroad for tournaments after COVID-19 crisis, Tokyo Olympics, his medal-laden career, the concept of quarantine camp, and much more.

Eight-time Commonwealth Games and two-time Asian Game medalist, Indian table-tennis icon Achanta Sharath Kamal, in an exclusive interview with WION's Sports Editor, Digvijay Singh Deo, spoke about life in lockdown, future of table tennis, travelling abroad for tournaments after COVID-19 crisis, Tokyo Olympics, his medal-laden career, the concept of quarantine camp, and much more. Digvijay Singh Deo: I must say Sharath, I have been seeing a lot of you addressing webinars through this crisis. Seems like you have been keeping busy. Sharath Kamal: I feel it is the responsibility of the senior athletes to guide the others through these tough times, so I've been trying to help them through webinars. There is a lot of uncertainty and anxiety about the future and there is a need to motivate people and spread positive messages. DSD: Has it been frustrating not being able to play and adjusting to this new phase? Sharath Kamal: Yes, initially it was very frustrating. For the first week of the lockdown, I failed to accept the situation and hence found it very tough to deal with. It was very frustrating to not be able to go out and train. But then I realised that there is no point dwelling on the things that I cannot control. Now, I follow a training schedule with whatever resources I have and play a little bit of table tennis at my mother's house since there is a table at her place. Also, it was tough to deal with the postponement of the Tokyo Olympics, because I was in good form leading up to the games and my world ranking had improved to 31. DSD: This forced break came at a crucial time for you when you were carrying some momentum and were going to take it into the Olympic qualifiers, in a way you have to start from scratch for the 2021 Olympics. Sharath Kamal: The sportsperson's body is like a sports car. The moment you stop taking care of it, it gets rusty and doesn't perform. In terms of our preparation for the games, we have to go back to the drawing board, so it is a mental challenge as well. We will need a couple of months of training and a few matches under our belt to figure out what the best way is to prepare for the games. It is definitely going to be an uphill task. The only positive is that all the athletes around the world are in the same boat. DSD: I did see some visuals of your teammate Sathiyan Gnanasekaran practising on a home table with a robot machine he had imported. Technology has been a boon through this process, be it communication or even playing. Sharath Kamal: I feel one must find a way to keep in touch with the sport. There is a lot of skill involved in racket sports and a player must not lose the feel of the game. One must not allow skill levels to drop to a great extent, otherwise, it will be very tough for the player when the sport resumes. It is important to train, but high-level training is only possible when you have a goal in mind and something to work towards. As of now, there is no schedule of tournaments and we have no idea when the sport will resume. DSD: For an elite player like you, how long do you think it will take to return to peak match fitness? Sharath Kamal: I have been participating in webinars with some fitness experts, and they believe that it will take athletes at least 3 months to regain even 80% of their mental and physical fitness. This is an unprecedented crisis and no one really has concrete answers. In the past, I have been out of action for six months due to injury, but that situation was completely different because I was working on rehabilitation and had a goal to work towards. This period is just filled with uncertainty. DSD: You are soon to turn 38 but that hasn’t slowed you down, look around you and there is a generation of golden oldies going very strong in Indian sport be it Mary Kom, Rohan Bopanna or even the biggest of them all Leander Paes. What is the secret of this longevity, there are some who believe that it is the older and wiser heads who will be able to adapt better once action resumes. Sharath Kamal: Yes, that is possible. However, there have been other reports as well, which make the point that older athletes might lose motivation because of the break. I have been taking an annual one month break for the last 3-4 years. At my age, I think it is important to take a mental and physical break and it also allows me to spend some time with my family. I try to unwind during that period and come back with a fresh mentality. The advantage that I have, being an experienced player, is that I know what parts of my game I will work on once I return. It will be impossible to cover every aspect of your game in the limited time which we will get for preparation. There is a broad plan that I have in mind and I will work in that direction. Mostly, I will look to sharpen my strengths rather than work on my weaknesses. DSD: Sharath as one of the senior-most players in the world and with a young family have you thought about travelling abroad for tournaments. It’s a tough situation to be in isn't it especially with rankings so important to the Olympic qualifying process. Sharath Kamal: Yes, in fact, I was dealing with the very same problem in March. My family advised me against travelling for the Oman Open because the coronavirus had started spreading rapidly at that time. Even though the risk of transmission was high at the airports, I went for the tournament against my family's wishes because it was important for me to get some match practice ahead of the Olympic qualifiers, which were scheduled for April at the time. That dilemma is bound to come up again in the near future. However, the priority must be the safety and health of me and my family. I have decided that I will not travel abroad for any tournament at least till September and the way things are going I doubt if any event will take place till then. There is also a question mark over whether international travel will be allowed in the near future and if it is, what will be the quarantine laws for athletes? There is really no point of me travelling to another country if I have to spend two weeks in quarantine before a particular tournament. DSD: There is talk of international tournaments abandoning the doubles and mixed doubles format for the time being. Isn't that completely unfair on specialist players. The IOC says all sports should be fair to athletes and how is this a fair process? Sharath Kamal: I don't know why they took that decision. Mixed doubles is an Olympic event, while the men's and women's doubles are also part of the team championships at the Olympics. I fail to see the sense behind a ban on those events since the Olympics are only a year away. Manika Batra and I have a fair chance of qualifying for the Games, we won the bronze medal at the Asian games and we have a small chance of winning a medal at the Olympics as well. So it's not fair to scrap those events. Also, when we travel to tournaments, we anyway spend a lot of time together during our travel and meals. I am bound to be in contact with say, Sathiyan or Manika, so what difference does it make if we play a doubles match together? DSD: Has the pandemic forced international bodies into panic mode. Table tennis isn't a contact sport and as long as players are tested regularly and the playing arena is sanitised, it shouldn't be a problem... Sharath Kamal: I was watching the German Bundesliga the other day and the substitutes were sitting on the bench while maintaining social distancing measures. I fail to understand the point of such a measure when there are 22 players on the football field who are constantly coming in contact with each other. This is an example of a decision that is just taken for the public perception of safety. The Badminton World Federation also just put out dates for the tournaments without having a clear plan in mind, we have no idea what travel restrictions will be put in place in the future I think every sporting body needs to have contingency plans in place for the calendar. In table tennis, the World Championships, which were initially scheduled in March, can be pushed back to the latter part of the year, since it is an important tournament. But there is no point preparing a schedule in panic mode. DSD: It felt like a threshold had been crossed by Indian table tennis at the Asian Games in 2018 with you and Manika Batra winning a mixed bronze, has it given you the confidence to challenge for medals at the Olympics and World Championships. Sharath Kamal: Absolutely, it was a huge boost for us to win a medal at the Asian Games, which has traditionally been dominated by countries like China, Japan and South Korea. These are the powerhouses of the sport and it was great to be at the podium. I should really hand it to Manika Batra, she was playing some truly outstanding table tennis during that mixed doubles event. I would say she played even better than what she did at the Commonwealth Games. She was able to carry her form from the CWG to the Asian games. Earlier, we were just hoping for a good performance when we went to the Olympics, but now we actually believe we can win a medal for the country. The image of Indian table tennis has changed in the entire world. Many international players wouldn't know the names of the Indian opponents, but all that has changed now. They know exactly who they are facing and Indian players are seen as serious competition. So, there has been a major change in the perception of Indian table tennis. DSD: What is the change Sharath, you have been toiling hard on the international tour for 2 decades now and finally last 2-3 years the breakthrough has happened. How close are we to a World Championship and Olympic medal now? Sharath Kamal: There have been a lot of changes that have been made in Indian tennis over the last few years. Before the Commonwealth Games in 2006, I decided to play in Europe and hence my game improved a lot. I think after that a lot of Indian youngsters started playing in European countries and that considerably raised the level of Indian table tennis. Four Indian paddlers secured their place at the Olympics for the first time at the 2016 Rio Games and that led to an increase in funding for the sport. We then hired top quality foreign coaches, who along with the table tennis federation of India and the sports authority of India, came up with a long-term plan. Now, there is a structure in place which allows us, Indian players, to travel abroad and get access to the best facilities for high-level performances at global events. The franchise-based Ultimate Table Tennis League, which started in 2017, was also a game-changer. It allowed young Indian players to compete and train with the best in the world. I went to Europe so that I could play with the best in the business and now the young Indian players have the opportunity of doing just that in India itself. Sathiyan Gnanasekaran and Manika Batra were the finds of the 2017 edition of the league. Then in 2018, Archana Kamath and Manav Thakkar emerged as strong talents, Thakkar is world no.1 in the U-21 category. Being a senior player, I made it a point to guide and mentor these youngsters. When I was young, I felt my development would have been fast-tracked if had a senior to show me the ropes. I think it was a huge advantage that I was able to pass on my experience, while still competing with them. Initially, they were a bit wary of the fact that I was giving them advice, while still being their opponent, but they gradually understood the point of the guidance and learnt to accept it that way. DSD: Now training protocols have been announced by sports authority of India and you were asked if you wanted to join a national camp but the players have refused now. What is the road ahead, when do you think you will be able to return to training in groups? Sharath Kamal: At the moment, training in groups is a big no. The guidelines that SAI came up with were for the athletes who were already at the facilities during the lockdown. They have invited us to camps, but at the moment there is no point of attending those them because we don't know when the next tournament will be held. I think it is unsafe for us to travel to any SAI facility. We as athletes need to wait for another month at least before we resume training in groups at any facility. Sathiyan and I live in the same city, but at the moment I don't think it will be wise for us to venture out given the rise in the number of cases in Chennai. DSD: Does the concept of a quarantine camp work for you where everyone is together in a sanitised environment or there can be no substitute for tournament play... Sharath Kamal: I think when we speak about quarantine camps, the players aren't the only ones who need to be protected, there will be multiple staff present at the venue and there will always be a worry about the health and safety of all the personnel at the facility. It is very hard to focus on your training when you don't feel completely secure, that worry will always be there at the back of your mind. We still need to wait for things to improve before making a proper decision. DSD: Would you be willing to head to the Olympics if no vaccine is found by then and should the Olympics then go ahead as many are now fearing. Sharath Kamal: At a mega-event like the Olympics, social distancing is virtually impossible because there are so many people at the village. I think it is highly unlikely that the Olympics will take place without a vaccine. If that is the case, it will be a huge setback for me personally because I don't know if I will still be playing when the next Games happen in 2024. So I really hope a vaccine is developed soon, not just for selfish reasons, but also for the good of humanity.

Sharath Kamal: Social distancing impossible at the Olympics

The postponement of the Tokyo Olympics came as a blow to fans of Indian hockey with the men's team starting the year brightly in the FIH pro league. The wait for an Olympic medal in hockey has been going on since 1980 but goalkeeper and former captain PR Sreejesh believes the initial disappointment has now been replaced by the belief that a further 15 months can help the team emerge as genuine medal contenders at the Tokyo games.

WION exclusive conversation with PR Sreejesh | Indian Hockey Goalkeeper | Lockdown

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