Ace Indian players Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma could be left stranded in COVID-19 pandemic-stricken Mumbai when senior cricketers start training again, BCCI treasurer Arun Dhumal has warned as cricket, like other sports, starts crawling back to life after a prolonged break.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) could allow players to train outdoors as early as next week if Indian government eases down the strict lockdown measures. However, in Mumbai, where skipper Kohli and his limited-overs deputy Rohit are based, is expected to maintain stringent restriction measures.&nbsp;

"For players like Kohli and Rohit, the restrictions are there in Mumbai and might stay," BCCI treasurer Arun Dhumal told AFP.

Mumbai accounts for more than a third of India’s fatalities due to COVID-19 with almost 1,000 deaths, and the number of fresh cases is still on a rise.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/led-walls-in-stadiums-with-vr-fans-during-ipl-2020-kkr-ceo-venky-mysore-comes-up-with-unique-idea-298832" hreflang="en">LED walls in stadiums with VR fans during IPL 2020? KKR CEO Venky Mysore comes up with unique idea</a>

Dhumal said that following government’s talk of further easing the lockdown measures, “some skill-based training” outdoors could be a possibility in other parts of India.

International cricket and Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 are the high-profile sporting casualties of the dreaded coronavirus and cricketers, including Kohli, have been posting photographs and videos of their indoor training and other activities on social media platforms.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sourav-ganguly-bcci-to-suffer-loss-to-the-tune-of-rs-4000-crore-if-ipl-2020-is-cancelled-298823" hreflang="en">Sourav Ganguly: BCCI to suffer loss to the tune of Rs 4000 crore if IPL 2020 is cancelled</a>

Dhumal confirmed that the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru was working on a post-lockdown regime for players which would be taken up soon.&nbsp;

"As of now, we are working, given the lockdown restrictions, through apps and online modes. The coaches and support staff are regularly in touch with the players," said Dhumal.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/start-with-bilateral-cricket-instead-of-world-cup-ravi-shastri-on-resumption-of-gentlemens-game-298853" hreflang="en">Start with bilateral cricket, instead of World Cup: Ravi Shastri on resumption of gentlemen's game</a>

"Everybody would be keen to hit the ground and the idea is whenever we are ready for cricket to resume, they (the players) are able to give their 100 per cent."

India have a tour of Sri Lanka scheduled in the month of June, however, it is likely to be called off. 
&nbsp;

Ace Indian players Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma could be left stranded in COVID-19 pandemic-stricken Mumbai when senior cricketers start training again, BCCI treasurer Arun Dhumal has warned as cricket, like other sports, starts crawling back to life after a prolonged break.

Ace Indian players Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma could be left stranded in COVID-19 pandemic-stricken Mumbai when senior cricketers start training again, BCCI treasurer Arun Dhumal has warned as cricket, like other sports, starts crawling back to life after a prolonged break. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) could allow players to train outdoors as early as next week if Indian government eases down the strict lockdown measures. However, in Mumbai, where skipper Kohli and his limited-overs deputy Rohit are based, is expected to maintain stringent restriction measures. "For players like Kohli and Rohit, the restrictions are there in Mumbai and might stay," BCCI treasurer Arun Dhumal told AFP. Mumbai accounts for more than a third of India’s fatalities due to COVID-19 with almost 1,000 deaths, and the number of fresh cases is still on a rise. ALSO READ: LED walls in stadiums with VR fans during IPL 2020? KKR CEO Venky Mysore comes up with unique idea Dhumal said that following government’s talk of further easing the lockdown measures, “some skill-based training” outdoors could be a possibility in other parts of India. International cricket and Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 are the high-profile sporting casualties of the dreaded coronavirus and cricketers, including Kohli, have been posting photographs and videos of their indoor training and other activities on social media platforms. ALSO READ: Sourav Ganguly: BCCI to suffer loss to the tune of Rs 4000 crore if IPL 2020 is cancelled Dhumal confirmed that the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru was working on a post-lockdown regime for players which would be taken up soon. "As of now, we are working, given the lockdown restrictions, through apps and online modes. The coaches and support staff are regularly in touch with the players," said Dhumal. ALSO READ: Start with bilateral cricket, instead of World Cup: Ravi Shastri on resumption of gentlemen's game "Everybody would be keen to hit the ground and the idea is whenever we are ready for cricket to resume, they (the players) are able to give their 100 per cent." India have a tour of Sri Lanka scheduled in the month of June, however, it is likely to be called off.

Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma could be stranded when India resume training, BCCI treasurer Arun Dhumal warns

Lionel Messi says he is comfortable with footballers returning to play again as La Liga prepares to restart the season in Spain next month.

La Liga president Javier Tebas has circled June 12 as the ideal date for matches to resume.

Barcelona sit top of the table, two points ahead of Real Madrid.

Players in Spain have started working individually at training grounds as part of a strict and staggered programme, with five players already put into quarantine after testing positive for coronavirus.

"The risk of contagion is everywhere," Messi said in an interview with Mundo Deportivo, published on Friday.

"When you leave the house the risk is already there, so I think you can't think about it too much because otherwise you'll not want to go out anywhere.

"But we also understand it is essential to comply with protocols and take all the possible measures of prevention. Going back to training is a first step but we shouldn't get complacent and we must continue taking all the necessary precautions and assume we have to start playing games but behind closed doors."

Messi also spoke about Inter Milan striker Lautaro Martinez, whom Barcelona are reportedly keen to sign this summer.

Martinez is viewed as a long-term replacement for the 33-year-old Luis Suarez.

"If I'm honest I'm not sure if there were or are negotiations right now for him, I have no idea," Messi said.

"Lautaro is an impressive striker, especially because I think he is very complete -- he is strong, he dribbles well, he has an eye for goal, he knows how to protect the ball."

Lionel Messi says he is comfortable with footballers returning to play again as La Liga prepares to restart the season in Spain next month. La Liga president Javier Tebas has circled June 12 as the ideal date for matches to resume.

Lionel Messi says he is comfortable with footballers returning to play again as La Liga prepares to restart the season in Spain next month. La Liga president Javier Tebas has circled June 12 as the ideal date for matches to resume. Barcelona sit top of the table, two points ahead of Real Madrid. Players in Spain have started working individually at training grounds as part of a strict and staggered programme, with five players already put into quarantine after testing positive for coronavirus. "The risk of contagion is everywhere," Messi said in an interview with Mundo Deportivo, published on Friday. "When you leave the house the risk is already there, so I think you can't think about it too much because otherwise you'll not want to go out anywhere. "But we also understand it is essential to comply with protocols and take all the possible measures of prevention. Going back to training is a first step but we shouldn't get complacent and we must continue taking all the necessary precautions and assume we have to start playing games but behind closed doors." Messi also spoke about Inter Milan striker Lautaro Martinez, whom Barcelona are reportedly keen to sign this summer. Martinez is viewed as a long-term replacement for the 33-year-old Luis Suarez. "If I'm honest I'm not sure if there were or are negotiations right now for him, I have no idea," Messi said. "Lautaro is an impressive striker, especially because I think he is very complete -- he is strong, he dribbles well, he has an eye for goal, he knows how to protect the ball."

Lionel Messi accepts 'risk' of possible La Liga return

The head coach of the Indian cricket team, Ravi Shastri has said he would prefer to play a bilateral series instead of a full-fledged T20 World Cup after cricket comes to life post-lockdown. As far as&nbsp;live sport is concerned, Shastri has set his priorities clear whenever cricket resumes in the near future.

Shastri said that the last couple of months will be counted as most horrible phase in a sportsperson’s life while adding the ‘only consolation perhaps is that cricketers or sportspersons in general are not the only ones who’ve been left shattered by what’s happening. The world, in general, is suffering, waiting for normalcy to resume”.

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“The last two months, and a couple of more going forward perhaps, will count as the most horrible phase in the life of a sportsperson in close to seven or eight decades. Something like this is unimaginable,” Shastri was quoted as saying by a leading daily.

Apart from a few bilateral series, the ICC T20 World Cup 2020 is scheduled to be held in immediate future as far as cricket is concerned. However, for Shastri, the priority is to ensure domestic cricket and international cricket comes back to the field. As far as showpiece events like the T20 World Cup go, Shastri is completely against the idea of a multi-team tournament and wants cricket to come back to life with bilateral series in place.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/led-walls-in-stadiums-with-vr-fans-during-ipl-2020-kkr-ceo-venky-mysore-comes-up-with-unique-idea-298832" hreflang="en">LED walls in stadiums with VR fans during IPL 2020? KKR CEO Venky Mysore comes up with unique idea</a>

“I wouldn’t put too much emphasis on world events right now. Stay at home, ensure domestic cricket comes back to normal, cricketers at all levels — international, First Class, etc — all get back on the field. That’s the most important bit.&nbsp;

“Second: Start with bilateral cricket. If we (India) had to choose between hosting a World Cup and a bilateral tour, obviously, we’d settle for the bilateral. Instead of 15 teams flying in, we’d settle for one team flying in and playing an entire bilateral series at one or two grounds,” Shastri asserted. 
&nbsp;

The head coach of the Indian cricket team, Ravi Shastri has said he would prefer to play a bilateral series instead of a full-fledged T20 World Cup after cricket comes to life post-lockdown.

The head coach of the Indian cricket team, Ravi Shastri has said he would prefer to play a bilateral series instead of a full-fledged T20 World Cup after cricket comes to life post-lockdown. As far as live sport is concerned, Shastri has set his priorities clear whenever cricket resumes in the near future. Shastri said that the last couple of months will be counted as most horrible phase in a sportsperson’s life while adding the ‘only consolation perhaps is that cricketers or sportspersons in general are not the only ones who’ve been left shattered by what’s happening. The world, in general, is suffering, waiting for normalcy to resume”. ALSO READ: Sourav Ganguly: BCCI to suffer loss to the tune of Rs 4000 crore if IPL 2020 is cancelled “The last two months, and a couple of more going forward perhaps, will count as the most horrible phase in the life of a sportsperson in close to seven or eight decades. Something like this is unimaginable,” Shastri was quoted as saying by a leading daily. Apart from a few bilateral series, the ICC T20 World Cup 2020 is scheduled to be held in immediate future as far as cricket is concerned. However, for Shastri, the priority is to ensure domestic cricket and international cricket comes back to the field. As far as showpiece events like the T20 World Cup go, Shastri is completely against the idea of a multi-team tournament and wants cricket to come back to life with bilateral series in place. ALSO READ: LED walls in stadiums with VR fans during IPL 2020? KKR CEO Venky Mysore comes up with unique idea “I wouldn’t put too much emphasis on world events right now. Stay at home, ensure domestic cricket comes back to normal, cricketers at all levels — international, First Class, etc — all get back on the field. That’s the most important bit. “Second: Start with bilateral cricket. If we (India) had to choose between hosting a World Cup and a bilateral tour, obviously, we’d settle for the bilateral. Instead of 15 teams flying in, we’d settle for one team flying in and playing an entire bilateral series at one or two grounds,” Shastri asserted.

Start with bilateral cricket, instead of World Cup: Ravi Shastri on resumption of gentlemen's game

The president of Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Sourav Ganguly has raised concerns surrounding the financial condition of the board if the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 cannot be conducted this year. The former Indian skipper said that the BCCI will suffer loss to the tune of Rs 4,000 crore if the cash-rich tournament gets cancelled due to COVID-19 pandemic, however, Ganguly added that the board will not go in for wage cuts of players and staff. &nbsp;

IPL 2020 was originally scheduled for a March 29 commencement but has been postponed twice following the travel restrictions and lockdown measures in place to curb the spread of the dreaded virus.&nbsp;

“We will have to examine our financial situation, see how much money we have and take a call. Not hosting the Indian Premier League (IPL) will cause losses to the tune of Rs. 4,000 crore which is huge,” Ganguly told a leading daily.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-players-may-start-training-in-coming-weeks-but-with-option-of-pulling-out-298724" hreflang="en">England players may start training in coming weeks but with option of "pulling out"</a>

“If the IPL takes place, we won’t have to go in for pay cuts. We’ll manage things,” added Ganguly.

There are talks of IPL being hosted behind closed doors if an alternate window is managed to conduct the T20 tournament. On this, Ganguly said the attraction will be less if it happens while recalling India’s match against Pakistan in 1999 where spectators weren’t allowed in for the final day of the Test due to earlier disturbance.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-should-not-be-criticised-for-his-aggression-cac-chief-madan-lal-298705" hreflang="en">Virat Kohli should not be criticised for his aggression: CAC chief Madan Lal</a>

However, the former Indian captain hinted that there could be a restricted amount of crowd allowed for matches but depends on what situation BCCI and stakeholders find themselves in the coming months.&nbsp;

“Yes, the attraction will be less. I remember playing in such a scenario [when spectators were not allowed in for the final day after crowd&nbsp;disturbances at Eden Gardens] at the Asian Test Championship game against Pakistan in 1999 and there was a clear lack of excitement.

“If you have matches with a restricted amount of crowds, not only would strict social distancing rules apply, the officials would also have to be very careful about how the spectators leave the galleries for home. The policing will have to be very strict. It’s a tough call and the situation we find ourselves in, is grave,” Ganguly added. 
&nbsp;

The president of Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Sourav Ganguly has raised concerns surrounding the financial condition of the board if the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 cannot be conducted this year.

The president of Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Sourav Ganguly has raised concerns surrounding the financial condition of the board if the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 cannot be conducted this year. The former Indian skipper said that the BCCI will suffer loss to the tune of Rs 4,000 crore if the cash-rich tournament gets cancelled due to COVID-19 pandemic, however, Ganguly added that the board will not go in for wage cuts of players and staff. IPL 2020 was originally scheduled for a March 29 commencement but has been postponed twice following the travel restrictions and lockdown measures in place to curb the spread of the dreaded virus. “We will have to examine our financial situation, see how much money we have and take a call. Not hosting the Indian Premier League (IPL) will cause losses to the tune of Rs. 4,000 crore which is huge,” Ganguly told a leading daily. ALSO READ: England players may start training in coming weeks but with option of "pulling out" “If the IPL takes place, we won’t have to go in for pay cuts. We’ll manage things,” added Ganguly. There are talks of IPL being hosted behind closed doors if an alternate window is managed to conduct the T20 tournament. On this, Ganguly said the attraction will be less if it happens while recalling India’s match against Pakistan in 1999 where spectators weren’t allowed in for the final day of the Test due to earlier disturbance. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli should not be criticised for his aggression: CAC chief Madan Lal However, the former Indian captain hinted that there could be a restricted amount of crowd allowed for matches but depends on what situation BCCI and stakeholders find themselves in the coming months. “Yes, the attraction will be less. I remember playing in such a scenario [when spectators were not allowed in for the final day after crowd disturbances at Eden Gardens] at the Asian Test Championship game against Pakistan in 1999 and there was a clear lack of excitement. “If you have matches with a restricted amount of crowds, not only would strict social distancing rules apply, the officials would also have to be very careful about how the spectators leave the galleries for home. The policing will have to be very strict. It’s a tough call and the situation we find ourselves in, is grave,” Ganguly added.

Sourav Ganguly: BCCI  to suffer loss to the tune of Rs 4000 crore if IPL 2020 is cancelled

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

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

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

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

Golfers based outside the United States will face a 14-day quarantine before they are able to compete on the US PGA Tour when the circuit resumes play next month, tour officials said Wednesday.

Britain's Matthew Fitzpatrick and Tommy Fleetwood and Italy's Francesco Molinari are among around 25 golfers who would need to move quickly to arrive in time for the US PGA's planned June 11 return at the Charles Schwab Challenge in Fort Worth, Texas.

Despite moves by the tour to help players and caddies based outside US borders return for events, the 14-day quarantine will be in force and those coming over from Britain would face another two-week isolation when they return across the Atlantic Ocean.

"We're working with the federal government to facilitate the return of players and caddies who are currently residing outside of the United States, and we're optimistic that's going to occur," said Andy Levinson, tour vice president of tournament administration.

"We're optimistic we'll be able to facilitate their return prior to our return to competition."

Helping players return doesn't mean the players could escape two weeks of quarantine, however, as a protective measure due to the coronavirus pandemic that shut down most sports, including the US PGA Tour, in March.

"That is currently in place, and it is likely to continue, so it's imperative that those constituents that we have that need to come back in the United States do so at least two weeks prior to our return to competition," Levinson said.

It's uncertain how many of the 25 players Levinson said are outside US borders would even want to return for events given the isolation required.

The tour outlined its coronavirus safety rules for its return, with at least the first four events to be played without spectators.

Coronavirus testing and daily temperature taking will be part of plan, devised in consultation with medical experts and government leaders in tournament host sites.

Nasal swab tests for the deadly virus would start when players and caddies perform a pre-travel screening test. They would be tested again when they arrive at event lodging.

When they arrive at the course each day, players and caddies will face health questions and thermometer readings before they can enter.

If a player's temperature is above 100.4 Fahrenheit (38 Celsius)&nbsp;on any day, he will be given a coronavirus test.

With up to two days needed for results, golfers will be able to only practice and play -- observing social distancing protocols -- while awaiting results. They would be banned from other course facilities.

Any player who tests positive for the virus must immediately quarantine for at least 10 days. If a player tests positive after making the 36-hole cut, he will be paid last-place prize money.

Medical privacy laws prohibit virus test results being made public, but players withdrawing for unknown reasons will come under scrutiny for such a situation.

And contact tracing will be used to try and contain any other possible positive tests.

"We're not going to play if we can't do it in a safe and healthy environment," PGA Tour chief of operations Tyler Dennis said.

The John Deere Classic at Sylvis, Illinois, on July 9-12 is the first possible event on a revamped US PGA schedule that could be open to fans.

<h2>- No handshakes allowed -</h2>

PGA staff, including rules and scoring officials, security, select clubhouse, tournament and volunteer staff, trainers and coaches will be permitted at the event. No family members will be allowed on site.

The tour will provide face masks and disinfectant wipes and cover test costs for players, caddies and essential staff.

Players will retrieve golf balls from holes and are urged to remove and replace their own clubs from the bag.

Caddies can rake bunkers and tend flagsticks but must use sanitary wipes on the equipment after doing so.

And there will be no handshakes after the round. Courses will be roped off for safety reasons even without spectators.

A player and caddie would share a cart back to the clubhouse if players are pulled off the course due to bad weather approaching.

A tour-hired charter flight will carry players and caddies between tournaments, but they have virus tests within 24 hours of departure. Only those who test negative can board the plane.

Golfers based outside the United States will face a 14-day quarantine before they are able to compete on the US PGA Tour when the circuit resumes play next month, tour officials said Wednesday.

Golfers based outside the United States will face a 14-day quarantine before they are able to compete on the US PGA Tour when the circuit resumes play next month, tour officials said Wednesday. Britain's Matthew Fitzpatrick and Tommy Fleetwood and Italy's Francesco Molinari are among around 25 golfers who would need to move quickly to arrive in time for the US PGA's planned June 11 return at the Charles Schwab Challenge in Fort Worth, Texas. Despite moves by the tour to help players and caddies based outside US borders return for events, the 14-day quarantine will be in force and those coming over from Britain would face another two-week isolation when they return across the Atlantic Ocean. "We're working with the federal government to facilitate the return of players and caddies who are currently residing outside of the United States, and we're optimistic that's going to occur," said Andy Levinson, tour vice president of tournament administration. "We're optimistic we'll be able to facilitate their return prior to our return to competition." Helping players return doesn't mean the players could escape two weeks of quarantine, however, as a protective measure due to the coronavirus pandemic that shut down most sports, including the US PGA Tour, in March. "That is currently in place, and it is likely to continue, so it's imperative that those constituents that we have that need to come back in the United States do so at least two weeks prior to our return to competition," Levinson said. It's uncertain how many of the 25 players Levinson said are outside US borders would even want to return for events given the isolation required. The tour outlined its coronavirus safety rules for its return, with at least the first four events to be played without spectators. Coronavirus testing and daily temperature taking will be part of plan, devised in consultation with medical experts and government leaders in tournament host sites. Nasal swab tests for the deadly virus would start when players and caddies perform a pre-travel screening test. They would be tested again when they arrive at event lodging. When they arrive at the course each day, players and caddies will face health questions and thermometer readings before they can enter. If a player's temperature is above 100.4 Fahrenheit (38 Celsius) on any day, he will be given a coronavirus test. With up to two days needed for results, golfers will be able to only practice and play -- observing social distancing protocols -- while awaiting results. They would be banned from other course facilities. Any player who tests positive for the virus must immediately quarantine for at least 10 days. If a player tests positive after making the 36-hole cut, he will be paid last-place prize money. Medical privacy laws prohibit virus test results being made public, but players withdrawing for unknown reasons will come under scrutiny for such a situation. And contact tracing will be used to try and contain any other possible positive tests. "We're not going to play if we can't do it in a safe and healthy environment," PGA Tour chief of operations Tyler Dennis said. The John Deere Classic at Sylvis, Illinois, on July 9-12 is the first possible event on a revamped US PGA schedule that could be open to fans. - No handshakes allowed - PGA staff, including rules and scoring officials, security, select clubhouse, tournament and volunteer staff, trainers and coaches will be permitted at the event. No family members will be allowed on site. The tour will provide face masks and disinfectant wipes and cover test costs for players, caddies and essential staff. Players will retrieve golf balls from holes and are urged to remove and replace their own clubs from the bag. Caddies can rake bunkers and tend flagsticks but must use sanitary wipes on the equipment after doing so. And there will be no handshakes after the round. Courses will be roped off for safety reasons even without spectators. A player and caddie would share a cart back to the clubhouse if players are pulled off the course due to bad weather approaching. A tour-hired charter flight will carry players and caddies between tournaments, but they have virus tests within 24 hours of departure. Only those who test negative can board the plane.

Up to 25 golfers face 14-day quarantine before US PGA return

The English Football League (EFL) warned the economic crisis facing its clubs will not be spared by a resumption of matches behind closed doors as it delayed any return to training until May 25 on Wednesday.

Unlike the top-tier Premier League, which is pressing ahead with plans to finish the season in a bid to satisfy lucrative television contracts, many of the 71 clubs in the three divisions of the EFL are far more reliant on gate receipts.

The UK government earlier this week paved the way for elite sport to return behind closed doors from June 1.

However, it is likely to be many months before supporters are allowed back into stadiums due to social distancing guidelines to help slow the spread of coronavirus.

"Solutions are still required to fill the financial hole left by the crisis," the EFL said in a statement after a meeting with clubs.

"The consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic will not be rectified simply by a return to play behind closed doors."

Government guidelines were issued on Wednesday to advise how elite sport can return safely to training.

However, the EFL pushed back the earliest date for training to recommence to allow clubs time to implement the changes needed to meet new protocols and a comprehensive testing programme.

"Clubs have today been issued with the latest draft of the EFL’s ‘Return to Training Protocols’, so that they can prepare appropriately," the statement added.

"However, until all outstanding matters are concluded, including finalising a comprehensive testing programme on matchdays and non-matchdays, the EFL Board has informed its Clubs that a return to training should not take place until 25 May at the earliest."

All clubs in the Championship have nine matches remaining, while some in League One and Two have up to 10 fixures of the season still to play.

The bottom two tiers could, though, struggle to complete the campaign due to the costs associated with implementing testing and the high percentage of player contracts set to expire in the coming weeks.

"I don't see League One and League Two starting," said Rotherham chairman Tony Stewart, whose side sit second in League One.

The English Football League (EFL) warned the economic crisis facing its clubs will not be spared by a resumption of matches behind closed doors as it delayed any return to training until May 25 on Wednesday.

The English Football League (EFL) warned the economic crisis facing its clubs will not be spared by a resumption of matches behind closed doors as it delayed any return to training until May 25 on Wednesday. Unlike the top-tier Premier League, which is pressing ahead with plans to finish the season in a bid to satisfy lucrative television contracts, many of the 71 clubs in the three divisions of the EFL are far more reliant on gate receipts. The UK government earlier this week paved the way for elite sport to return behind closed doors from June 1. However, it is likely to be many months before supporters are allowed back into stadiums due to social distancing guidelines to help slow the spread of coronavirus. "Solutions are still required to fill the financial hole left by the crisis," the EFL said in a statement after a meeting with clubs. "The consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic will not be rectified simply by a return to play behind closed doors." Government guidelines were issued on Wednesday to advise how elite sport can return safely to training. However, the EFL pushed back the earliest date for training to recommence to allow clubs time to implement the changes needed to meet new protocols and a comprehensive testing programme. "Clubs have today been issued with the latest draft of the EFL’s ‘Return to Training Protocols’, so that they can prepare appropriately," the statement added. "However, until all outstanding matters are concluded, including finalising a comprehensive testing programme on matchdays and non-matchdays, the EFL Board has informed its Clubs that a return to training should not take place until 25 May at the earliest." All clubs in the Championship have nine matches remaining, while some in League One and Two have up to 10 fixures of the season still to play. The bottom two tiers could, though, struggle to complete the campaign due to the costs associated with implementing testing and the high percentage of player contracts set to expire in the coming weeks. "I don't see League One and League Two starting," said Rotherham chairman Tony Stewart, whose side sit second in League One.

EFL's economic crisis will not be spared behind closed doors

Brazilian great Ronaldinho's lawyers are hoping the former world player of the year will be allowed to go home after more than two months of detention in Paraguay over a forged passport.

"We're hoping to convince the prosecution to allow Ronaldinho and his brother to return to their country. We can do nothing but wait for the investigation to end," a defense source told AFP.

Former Barcelona, AC Milan and Paris Saint-Germain star Ronaldinho and his brother, Robert de Assis Moreira, are facing up to five years in jail if convicted.

The brothers spent more than a month behind bars after they were accused of entering Paraguay in possession of false passports.

The 2005 Ballon d'Or winner and his brother posted bail of $1.6 million and have been under house arrest at the plush Palmaroga Hotel in the historic centre of the Paraguayan capital Asuncion since April 7.

The public prosecutor has six months to investigate the case, and has ordered the arrest of 18 in connection with it.

"There is not one single serious proof that incriminates him," Rogelio Delgado, president of Paraguay's footballers union told AFP.

"Although he has a luxury prison, it's very unfair that he's still being detained," added Delgado, a former Paraguay international.

The 40-year-old Ronaldinho has been keeping a low profile since being released from behind bars, not least because of coronavirus lockdown measures.

"I was completely caught off guard when I found out that these passports were not valid," Ronaldinho told Paraguayan newspaper ABC last month in his only public statement since his release.

Ronaldinho, considered one of the greatest footballers of all time, was crucial in Brazil's 2002 World Cup win.

He and sibling Robert -- who is also his business manager -- initially encountered no problems after arriving in Asuncion from neighboring Brazil on March 4.

However, shortly after their arrival,&nbsp;the pair were taken into police custody when investigators raided their hotel following discovery that their passports were fake.

Ronaldinho, given a rock star's welcome to Asuncion by around 2,000 children and teenagers, said the documents had been given to him by sponsors of a charity working with disadvantaged children.&nbsp;

The investigation has since expanded into a case of possible money laundering.

Brazilian great Ronaldinho's lawyers are hoping the former world player of the year will be allowed to go home after more than two months of detention in Paraguay over a forged passport.

Brazilian great Ronaldinho's lawyers are hoping the former world player of the year will be allowed to go home after more than two months of detention in Paraguay over a forged passport. "We're hoping to convince the prosecution to allow Ronaldinho and his brother to return to their country. We can do nothing but wait for the investigation to end," a defense source told AFP. Former Barcelona, AC Milan and Paris Saint-Germain star Ronaldinho and his brother, Robert de Assis Moreira, are facing up to five years in jail if convicted. The brothers spent more than a month behind bars after they were accused of entering Paraguay in possession of false passports. The 2005 Ballon d'Or winner and his brother posted bail of $1.6 million and have been under house arrest at the plush Palmaroga Hotel in the historic centre of the Paraguayan capital Asuncion since April 7. The public prosecutor has six months to investigate the case, and has ordered the arrest of 18 in connection with it. "There is not one single serious proof that incriminates him," Rogelio Delgado, president of Paraguay's footballers union told AFP. "Although he has a luxury prison, it's very unfair that he's still being detained," added Delgado, a former Paraguay international. The 40-year-old Ronaldinho has been keeping a low profile since being released from behind bars, not least because of coronavirus lockdown measures. "I was completely caught off guard when I found out that these passports were not valid," Ronaldinho told Paraguayan newspaper ABC last month in his only public statement since his release. Ronaldinho, considered one of the greatest footballers of all time, was crucial in Brazil's 2002 World Cup win. He and sibling Robert -- who is also his business manager -- initially encountered no problems after arriving in Asuncion from neighboring Brazil on March 4. However, shortly after their arrival, the pair were taken into police custody when investigators raided their hotel following discovery that their passports were fake. Ronaldinho, given a rock star's welcome to Asuncion by around 2,000 children and teenagers, said the documents had been given to him by sponsors of a charity working with disadvantaged children. The investigation has since expanded into a case of possible money laundering.

Ronaldinho closing in on 70 days detention in Paraguay

Former Paris Saint-Germain and Napoli forward Ezequiel Lavezzi has made a complaint he is being blackmailed over sex videos, Argentine judicial sources said.

The 35-year-old former Argentina international, who retired in December, claimed to have received messages threatening to publish intimate images of him on the internet if he didn't pay $5,000 for each one.

Lawyers representing Lavezzi, who also played for Chinese side Hebei Fortune and San Lorenzo in his homeland, made the complaint to cybercrime prosecutors.

With Argentina under coronavirus lockdown, Lavezzi is currently staying on the Caribbean island of Saint Barthelemy, a French overseas territory, alongside his partner, Brazilian model and actress Natalia Borges, who also received threats on her social media accounts, according to sources.

The Argentine press has dubbed the affair a "pornoextortion".

According to Lavezzi's lawyers, the content of the videos is likely to be genuine.

Former Paris Saint-Germain and Napoli forward Ezequiel Lavezzi has made a complaint he is being blackmailed over sex videos, Argentine judicial sources said. The 35-year-old former Argentina international, who retired in December, claimed to have received messages threatening to publish intimate images of him on the internet if he didn't pay $5,000 for each one.

Former Paris Saint-Germain and Napoli forward Ezequiel Lavezzi has made a complaint he is being blackmailed over sex videos, Argentine judicial sources said. The 35-year-old former Argentina international, who retired in December, claimed to have received messages threatening to publish intimate images of him on the internet if he didn't pay $5,000 for each one. Lawyers representing Lavezzi, who also played for Chinese side Hebei Fortune and San Lorenzo in his homeland, made the complaint to cybercrime prosecutors. With Argentina under coronavirus lockdown, Lavezzi is currently staying on the Caribbean island of Saint Barthelemy, a French overseas territory, alongside his partner, Brazilian model and actress Natalia Borges, who also received threats on her social media accounts, according to sources. The Argentine press has dubbed the affair a "pornoextortion". According to Lavezzi's lawyers, the content of the videos is likely to be genuine.

Ex-Argentina attacker Ezequiel Lavezzi makes sex video blackmail complaint

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

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

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

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

The chairman of Istanbul giants Besiktas tested positive for coronavirus after a series of medical checks on players and staff members, the club said Thursday, a month before games are set to resume.

Earlier Thursday, the club said eight people at the club had contracted the virus. No further details were given, and it was not clear if chairman Ahmet Nur Cebi was among the eight.

Tests were conducted on footballers, technical committee members and facility staff on Wednesday, Besiktas said.

The results will raise further concerns after the Turkish Football Federation (TFF) said games in the top league would resume on June 12 after they were suspended in March.

TFF chief Nihat Ozdemir said the matches would be played without spectators but this could change depending on how the pandemic evolves.

Super Lig club Kasimpasa later Thursday said two footballers had tested positive for COVID-19 after conducting tests on players and staff.

Second division club Erzurumspor said Wednesday 11 cases of COVID-19 had been recorded, including four players.

Turkey has officially recorded 143,114 cases of the new coronavirus while 3,952 people have died, according to the health minister Wednesday.

In March, Galatasaray manager Fatih Terim tested positive for the virus as well as former Turkish national team and ex-Barcelona goalkeeper Rustu Recber.

Both have since recovered.

The chairman of Istanbul giants Besiktas tested positive for coronavirus after a series of medical checks on players and staff members, the club said Thursday, a month before games are set to resume.

The chairman of Istanbul giants Besiktas tested positive for coronavirus after a series of medical checks on players and staff members, the club said Thursday, a month before games are set to resume. Earlier Thursday, the club said eight people at the club had contracted the virus. No further details were given, and it was not clear if chairman Ahmet Nur Cebi was among the eight. Tests were conducted on footballers, technical committee members and facility staff on Wednesday, Besiktas said. The results will raise further concerns after the Turkish Football Federation (TFF) said games in the top league would resume on June 12 after they were suspended in March. TFF chief Nihat Ozdemir said the matches would be played without spectators but this could change depending on how the pandemic evolves. Super Lig club Kasimpasa later Thursday said two footballers had tested positive for COVID-19 after conducting tests on players and staff. Second division club Erzurumspor said Wednesday 11 cases of COVID-19 had been recorded, including four players. Turkey has officially recorded 143,114 cases of the new coronavirus while 3,952 people have died, according to the health minister Wednesday. In March, Galatasaray manager Fatih Terim tested positive for the virus as well as former Turkish national team and ex-Barcelona goalkeeper Rustu Recber. Both have since recovered.

Besiktas chairman tests positive for coronavirus

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

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

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

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

Tottenham manager Jose Mourinho says he is "desperate" for the return of Premier League action despite mounting concerns about the English top-flight's restart plans.

Several stars including Sergio Aguero, Raheem Sterling and Danny Rose have gone public with fears about resuming the season during the coronavirus crisis.

Some top-flight bosses are also understood to have expressed concerns about the plan to play from mid-June when they spoke during a League Managers Association meeting on Wednesday.

But Mourinho said he would relish the chance to get back to work despite the challenges and risks posed by the pandemic.

"I have not asked for any delay," Mourinho said in a statement on Thursday.&nbsp;

"I want to train, and I am desperate for the Premier League to return as soon as it is safe to do so, particularly now we are seeing other leagues preparing to return to action."&nbsp;

Mourinho was forced to apologise in April after being spotted breaking lockdown restrictions to hold a training session with midfielder Tanguy Ndombele in a public park.

Serge Aurier and Moussa Sissoko also had to say sorry after the Tottenham pair flouted social-distancing guidelines to train together.

Despite those incidents, Mourinho is happy with the way his squad have kept themselves fit during the lockdown.

"I am extremely proud of the way my players have maintained their fitness," he said. "They have shown great professionalism, passion and dedication.

"We have all been working extremely hard through remote squad training sessions and isolated running now the pitches are available to use again at the training centre.

"Every player has been extremely committed in terms of their individual work and now we wait for clearance to commence working in small groups again, which I will fully support."

Tottenham manager Jose Mourinho says he is "desperate" for the return of Premier League action despite mounting concerns about the English top-flight's restart plans.

Tottenham manager Jose Mourinho says he is "desperate" for the return of Premier League action despite mounting concerns about the English top-flight's restart plans. Several stars including Sergio Aguero, Raheem Sterling and Danny Rose have gone public with fears about resuming the season during the coronavirus crisis. Some top-flight bosses are also understood to have expressed concerns about the plan to play from mid-June when they spoke during a League Managers Association meeting on Wednesday. But Mourinho said he would relish the chance to get back to work despite the challenges and risks posed by the pandemic. "I have not asked for any delay," Mourinho said in a statement on Thursday. "I want to train, and I am desperate for the Premier League to return as soon as it is safe to do so, particularly now we are seeing other leagues preparing to return to action." Mourinho was forced to apologise in April after being spotted breaking lockdown restrictions to hold a training session with midfielder Tanguy Ndombele in a public park. Serge Aurier and Moussa Sissoko also had to say sorry after the Tottenham pair flouted social-distancing guidelines to train together. Despite those incidents, Mourinho is happy with the way his squad have kept themselves fit during the lockdown. "I am extremely proud of the way my players have maintained their fitness," he said. "They have shown great professionalism, passion and dedication. "We have all been working extremely hard through remote squad training sessions and isolated running now the pitches are available to use again at the training centre. "Every player has been extremely committed in terms of their individual work and now we wait for clearance to commence working in small groups again, which I will fully support."

Mourinho 'desperate' for Premier League return

With Bundesliga 2019-20 set to resume on May 16 after a prolonged break due to COVID-19 pandemic, Borussia Dortmund captain Marco Reus has said that even though he is delighted that football is back, everyone must act with full responsibility in order to allow public life to resume in a phased and sensible manner.&nbsp;

Borussia Dortmund will be up against arch-rivals FC Schalke 04 at the Signal Iduna Park on Saturday in what promises to be a perfect match to resume live football. While Dortmund are sitting close-second to table-toppers Bayern Munich, Schalke 04 are sixth in the table and would be eyeing to finish the league in the Europa League qualifying spot.&nbsp;

"All of us players have missed being able to do our job. So, of course, I'm delighted about the decision to allow the Bundesliga to restart. We're seeing the same thing across various sectors of the economy: ideas are being developed to allow public life to resume, step by step, and as sensibly as possible," the club's official website quoted Reus as saying.

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"We've been given a chance, and it's now essential that we all act with full responsibility. Professional footballers are normal people; we have our flaws like everyone else. But we should all know that people are now scrutinizing us more intensely than ever before. That's entirely reasonable," he added.&nbsp;

Bundesliga will be the first major European league to resume services after almost all the football leagues came to a standstill due to COVID-19 outbreak.&nbsp;

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Reus is also of the view that with an extensive testing regime, there is a high probability that everyone involved in the league will remain healthy.&nbsp;

"With regards to the medical plan developed for professional football; there are never any guarantees when it comes to health, and we are obviously no exception. Nonetheless, in light of the extensive testing regime and the hygiene measures in place, there is a very high probability that everyone involved will remain healthy," he said. 
&nbsp;

With Bundesliga 2019-20 set to resume on May 16 after a prolonged break due to COVID-19 pandemic, Borussia Dortmund captain Marco Reus has said that even though he is delighted that football is back, everyone must act with full responsibility in order to allow public life to resume in a phased and sensible manner.

With Bundesliga 2019-20 set to resume on May 16 after a prolonged break due to COVID-19 pandemic, Borussia Dortmund captain Marco Reus has said that even though he is delighted that football is back, everyone must act with full responsibility in order to allow public life to resume in a phased and sensible manner. Borussia Dortmund will be up against arch-rivals FC Schalke 04 at the Signal Iduna Park on Saturday in what promises to be a perfect match to resume live football. While Dortmund are sitting close-second to table-toppers Bayern Munich, Schalke 04 are sixth in the table and would be eyeing to finish the league in the Europa League qualifying spot. "All of us players have missed being able to do our job. So, of course, I'm delighted about the decision to allow the Bundesliga to restart. We're seeing the same thing across various sectors of the economy: ideas are being developed to allow public life to resume, step by step, and as sensibly as possible," the club's official website quoted Reus as saying. ALSO READ: Turkish soccer player confesses to killing son in hospital "We've been given a chance, and it's now essential that we all act with full responsibility. Professional footballers are normal people; we have our flaws like everyone else. But we should all know that people are now scrutinizing us more intensely than ever before. That's entirely reasonable," he added. Bundesliga will be the first major European league to resume services after almost all the football leagues came to a standstill due to COVID-19 outbreak. ALSO READ: Serie A agrees on June 13 resumption after meeting with all 20 clubs Reus is also of the view that with an extensive testing regime, there is a high probability that everyone involved in the league will remain healthy. "With regards to the medical plan developed for professional football; there are never any guarantees when it comes to health, and we are obviously no exception. Nonetheless, in light of the extensive testing regime and the hygiene measures in place, there is a very high probability that everyone involved will remain healthy," he said.

Bundesliga: Borussia Dortmund's Marco Reus reacts on league resumption, says 'essential that we act with full responsibility'

The National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) has nominated ace shooter Anjum Moudgil for the Khel Ratna -- the country's highest sporting honour -- while recommending Jaspal Rana for the Dronacharya Award for the second year in a row.

Moudgil, the 26-year-old rifle ace who started shooting in 2008, is among the first two Indians to have secured quota places for the Tokyo Olympics.

The NRAI on Thursday said it will be sending the Sports Ministry the names of champion pistol shooters Saurabh Chaudhary, Abhishek Verma, Manu Bhaker and promising rifle shooter Elavenil Valarivan for the prestigious Arjuna Award.

Bhaker and Valarivan's names were added to the list on Thursday, according to federation sources.

NRAI President Raninder Singh said in a statement, "Our shooters had an outstanding last season and it was a particularly difficult selection to make this time around.

"I wish all those recommended all the very best and hope those who could not make it this year, force us to do so next time around with their performances.

"I believe all are equally talented and will certainly reap rich awards if they carry on the way they have." 
Bhaker and Valarivan's names were added to the list on Thursday.

"Anjum Moudgil has been nominated for Khel Ratna while the NRAI has again send Jaspal's name for Dronacharya. They have always believed that he deserves it and are hoping he gets it this time," a federation source had told PTI earlier in the day.

"Saurabh Chaudhary, Abhishek Verma, Manu Bhaker and Elavenil have been recommended for Arjuna."

Moudgil, the shooter from Chandigarh earned the quota in the 10m Air Rifle event when she won the silver medal in the ISSF World Cup in Korea in 2008.

Last year, Moudgil paired up with Divyansh Singh Panwar to claim the 10m Air Rifle mixed team gold medal in the ISSF World Cup in Munich and Beijing.

She also reached the final in the 10m Air Rifle event in the ISSF World Cup in Munich and Rio de Janeiro.

Last December, Moudgil won the title in the women's 50m 3P event at the 63rd National Shooting Championship in Bhopal.

The Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna award carries a medallion, a certificate and a cash prize of Rs 7.5 lakh.

Rana's exclusion last year snowballed into a big controversy after India's only individual Olympic gold-medallist Abhinav Bindra criticised the selection panel for not finalising the seasoned coach for the Dronacharya Award.

The 43-year-old Rana, a multiple Asian Games gold-medallist marksman, is credited to have groomed the likes of teen sensations Bhaker, Saurabh and Anish Bhanwala into world-class shooters.

Ignored last time despite being the man behind the young shooters' smashing success in recent years, Rana is hoping that the selection is "fair" and the most deserving candidate is recognised.

Dronacharya awards are given to honour eminent coaches who have successfully trained sportspersons or teams and enabled them to achieve outstanding results in international competitions.

The award carries a cash prize of Rs 5 lakh.

The 30-year-old Verma, an engineer-turned-lawyer-turned-shooter secured India's fifth Olympic quota place in the sport, winning the 10m air pistol gold medal at the ISSF World Cup in Beijing last April.

Two months before that, unfazed by a field comprising some seasoned campaigners, teenager Chaudhary smashed the world record to win gold in the season's first World Cup and the country's third quota.

In the beginning of this year, Youth Olympics and Asian Games champion Chaudhary stamped his class again to win the 10m air pistol gold at the Bhopal Nationals, where Verma bagged bronze.

Verma now boasts of two World Cup gold medals, an Asian Games bronze, and an Olympic quota place.

Through last year, he also developed a great rivalry with Chaudhary as the 16-year-old grabbed the gold medals at the other two World Cups in New Delhi and Munich.

The 18-year-old Bhaker, a Youth Olympics and Commonwealth Games champion, has won a plethora of medals, including gold, in top international events in the last three years.

Remarkably enough, the teenager from Haryana shone bright in her maiden senior appearance at the ISSF World Cup, winning an individual as well a mixed gold medal in Mexico in 2018.

Like some of her compatriots, the supremely-gifted Bhaker is considered destined for bigger things and is preparing hard for the Olympics.

No less inspiring has been the rise of Valarivan, who shot her way to the women's 10m air rifle gold medal in the prestigious World Cup Final in China last year, her biggest triumph in what has been a terrific career so far.

The shooter is mentored by Olympic bronze medallist Gagan Narang.

Besides, the 20-year-old from Tamil Nadu finished on top of the podium at the Rio de Janeiro World Cup last year and claimed a silver at the 2018 World Championship in Changwon, South Korea.

The National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) has nominated ace shooter Anjum Moudgil for the Khel Ratna -- the country's highest sporting honour -- while recommending Jaspal Rana for the Dronacharya Award for the second year in a row.

The National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) has nominated ace shooter Anjum Moudgil for the Khel Ratna -- the country's highest sporting honour -- while recommending Jaspal Rana for the Dronacharya Award for the second year in a row. Moudgil, the 26-year-old rifle ace who started shooting in 2008, is among the first two Indians to have secured quota places for the Tokyo Olympics. The NRAI on Thursday said it will be sending the Sports Ministry the names of champion pistol shooters Saurabh Chaudhary, Abhishek Verma, Manu Bhaker and promising rifle shooter Elavenil Valarivan for the prestigious Arjuna Award. Bhaker and Valarivan's names were added to the list on Thursday, according to federation sources. NRAI President Raninder Singh said in a statement, "Our shooters had an outstanding last season and it was a particularly difficult selection to make this time around. "I wish all those recommended all the very best and hope those who could not make it this year, force us to do so next time around with their performances. "I believe all are equally talented and will certainly reap rich awards if they carry on the way they have." Bhaker and Valarivan's names were added to the list on Thursday. "Anjum Moudgil has been nominated for Khel Ratna while the NRAI has again send Jaspal's name for Dronacharya. They have always believed that he deserves it and are hoping he gets it this time," a federation source had told PTI earlier in the day. "Saurabh Chaudhary, Abhishek Verma, Manu Bhaker and Elavenil have been recommended for Arjuna." Moudgil, the shooter from Chandigarh earned the quota in the 10m Air Rifle event when she won the silver medal in the ISSF World Cup in Korea in 2008. Last year, Moudgil paired up with Divyansh Singh Panwar to claim the 10m Air Rifle mixed team gold medal in the ISSF World Cup in Munich and Beijing. She also reached the final in the 10m Air Rifle event in the ISSF World Cup in Munich and Rio de Janeiro. Last December, Moudgil won the title in the women's 50m 3P event at the 63rd National Shooting Championship in Bhopal. The Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna award carries a medallion, a certificate and a cash prize of Rs 7.5 lakh. Rana's exclusion last year snowballed into a big controversy after India's only individual Olympic gold-medallist Abhinav Bindra criticised the selection panel for not finalising the seasoned coach for the Dronacharya Award. The 43-year-old Rana, a multiple Asian Games gold-medallist marksman, is credited to have groomed the likes of teen sensations Bhaker, Saurabh and Anish Bhanwala into world-class shooters. Ignored last time despite being the man behind the young shooters' smashing success in recent years, Rana is hoping that the selection is "fair" and the most deserving candidate is recognised. Dronacharya awards are given to honour eminent coaches who have successfully trained sportspersons or teams and enabled them to achieve outstanding results in international competitions. The award carries a cash prize of Rs 5 lakh. The 30-year-old Verma, an engineer-turned-lawyer-turned-shooter secured India's fifth Olympic quota place in the sport, winning the 10m air pistol gold medal at the ISSF World Cup in Beijing last April. Two months before that, unfazed by a field comprising some seasoned campaigners, teenager Chaudhary smashed the world record to win gold in the season's first World Cup and the country's third quota. In the beginning of this year, Youth Olympics and Asian Games champion Chaudhary stamped his class again to win the 10m air pistol gold at the Bhopal Nationals, where Verma bagged bronze. Verma now boasts of two World Cup gold medals, an Asian Games bronze, and an Olympic quota place. Through last year, he also developed a great rivalry with Chaudhary as the 16-year-old grabbed the gold medals at the other two World Cups in New Delhi and Munich. The 18-year-old Bhaker, a Youth Olympics and Commonwealth Games champion, has won a plethora of medals, including gold, in top international events in the last three years. Remarkably enough, the teenager from Haryana shone bright in her maiden senior appearance at the ISSF World Cup, winning an individual as well a mixed gold medal in Mexico in 2018. Like some of her compatriots, the supremely-gifted Bhaker is considered destined for bigger things and is preparing hard for the Olympics. No less inspiring has been the rise of Valarivan, who shot her way to the women's 10m air rifle gold medal in the prestigious World Cup Final in China last year, her biggest triumph in what has been a terrific career so far. The shooter is mentored by Olympic bronze medallist Gagan Narang. Besides, the 20-year-old from Tamil Nadu finished on top of the podium at the Rio de Janeiro World Cup last year and claimed a silver at the 2018 World Championship in Changwon, South Korea.

NRAI nominates Anjum Moudgil for Khel Ratna, Jaspal for Dronacharya Award

Spanish driver Carlos Sainz will replace four-time Formula One world champion Sebastian Vettel at Ferrari next season, while Daniel Ricciardo has signed a "multi-year" deal with McLaren from 2021.

Sainz, 25, will leave McLaren following the 2020 season to partner 22-year-old Charles Leclerc at Ferrari, forming the team's youngest pairing in the past 50 years.

"With five seasons already behind him, Carlos has proved to be very talented and has shown that he has the technical ability and the right attributes to make him an ideal fit with our family," Ferrari team boss Mattia Binotto said in a statement on Thursday.

"We've embarked on a new cycle with the aim of getting back to the top in Formula 1. It will be a long journey, not without its difficulties," he added, referring to the additional challenges created by the coronavirus pandemic.

"We believe that a driver pairing with the talent and personality of Charles and Carlos... will be the best possible combination to help us reach the goals we have set ourselves."

Sainz emerged in pole position to succeed Vettel at Maranello after the German announced Tuesday he was quitting Ferrari after talks over a new contract broke down.

Sainz, whose father, also Carlos, is a two-time world rally champion, has previously driven for Red Bull's feeder team Toro Rosso and Renault before impressing with McLaren last season.

He secured the once all-conquering British team's first podium place in almost six years in Brazil last year.

Signing Sainz will also end any lingering speculation about six-time champion Lewis Hamilton leaving Mercedes for Ferrari.

"I am very happy that I will be driving for Scuderia Ferrari in 2021 and I'm excited about my future with the team," said Sainz, who is expected to play a supporting role alongside Leclerc.

"I still have an important year ahead with McLaren Racing and I'm really looking forward to going racing again with them this season."

<h2>- Domino effect -</h2>

Australian Ricciardo will drive for McLaren next season when he takes over the seat left vacant by Sainz.

Ricciardo, 30, will line up alongside Britain's Lando Norris, 20, in 2021 after he leaves Renault at the end of this season.

"Daniel is a proven race-winner and his experience, commitment and energy will be a valuable addition to McLaren and our mission to return to the front of the field," said McLaren team principal Andreas Seidl.

"With Daniel and Lando as teammates, I believe we have two racers who will continue to excite our fans and help the team grow."

Ricciardo has won seven races and recorded 29 podium finishes since his F1 debut with the HRT team at the British Grand Prix in 2011.

He drove for Red Bull's junior team Toro Rosso in 2012 and 2013 before making the jump to the flagship Red Bull team in 2014. He finished third in the drivers' standings in 2014 and 2016.

However, he failed to muster a single top-three finish in a disappointing first season at Renault.

Ricciardo's exit at Renault could open the door for Fernando Alonso to reunite with the team he won world titles with in 2005 and 2006, although they are reportedly keen to find an in-house replacement.

Alonso, 38, quit F1 in 2018 but hasn't ruled out a return to the sport.&nbsp;

Vettel's future meanwhile remains uncertain.

"What's been happening in these past few months has led many of us to reflect on what are our real priorities in life," said the 32-year-old Vettel.

"One needs to use one's imagination and to adopt a new approach to a situation that has changed. I myself will take the time I need to reflect on what really matters when it comes to my future."

After the first 10 races of the coronavirus-hit 2020 campaign were either cancelled or postponed, organisers hope to start the season in Austria with back-to-back races on July 5 and 12.

F1 chief Chase Carey last week insisted a 15-18 race season was still possible, but he admitted that all scenarios are on the table "including the remote possibility of no racing in 2020".

Spanish driver Carlos Sainz will replace four-time Formula One world champion Sebastian Vettel at Ferrari next season, while Daniel Ricciardo has signed a "multi-year" deal with McLaren from 2021.

Spanish driver Carlos Sainz will replace four-time Formula One world champion Sebastian Vettel at Ferrari next season, while Daniel Ricciardo has signed a "multi-year" deal with McLaren from 2021. Sainz, 25, will leave McLaren following the 2020 season to partner 22-year-old Charles Leclerc at Ferrari, forming the team's youngest pairing in the past 50 years. "With five seasons already behind him, Carlos has proved to be very talented and has shown that he has the technical ability and the right attributes to make him an ideal fit with our family," Ferrari team boss Mattia Binotto said in a statement on Thursday. "We've embarked on a new cycle with the aim of getting back to the top in Formula 1. It will be a long journey, not without its difficulties," he added, referring to the additional challenges created by the coronavirus pandemic. "We believe that a driver pairing with the talent and personality of Charles and Carlos... will be the best possible combination to help us reach the goals we have set ourselves." Sainz emerged in pole position to succeed Vettel at Maranello after the German announced Tuesday he was quitting Ferrari after talks over a new contract broke down. Sainz, whose father, also Carlos, is a two-time world rally champion, has previously driven for Red Bull's feeder team Toro Rosso and Renault before impressing with McLaren last season. He secured the once all-conquering British team's first podium place in almost six years in Brazil last year. Signing Sainz will also end any lingering speculation about six-time champion Lewis Hamilton leaving Mercedes for Ferrari. "I am very happy that I will be driving for Scuderia Ferrari in 2021 and I'm excited about my future with the team," said Sainz, who is expected to play a supporting role alongside Leclerc. "I still have an important year ahead with McLaren Racing and I'm really looking forward to going racing again with them this season." - Domino effect - Australian Ricciardo will drive for McLaren next season when he takes over the seat left vacant by Sainz. Ricciardo, 30, will line up alongside Britain's Lando Norris, 20, in 2021 after he leaves Renault at the end of this season. "Daniel is a proven race-winner and his experience, commitment and energy will be a valuable addition to McLaren and our mission to return to the front of the field," said McLaren team principal Andreas Seidl. "With Daniel and Lando as teammates, I believe we have two racers who will continue to excite our fans and help the team grow." Ricciardo has won seven races and recorded 29 podium finishes since his F1 debut with the HRT team at the British Grand Prix in 2011. He drove for Red Bull's junior team Toro Rosso in 2012 and 2013 before making the jump to the flagship Red Bull team in 2014. He finished third in the drivers' standings in 2014 and 2016. However, he failed to muster a single top-three finish in a disappointing first season at Renault. Ricciardo's exit at Renault could open the door for Fernando Alonso to reunite with the team he won world titles with in 2005 and 2006, although they are reportedly keen to find an in-house replacement. Alonso, 38, quit F1 in 2018 but hasn't ruled out a return to the sport. Vettel's future meanwhile remains uncertain. "What's been happening in these past few months has led many of us to reflect on what are our real priorities in life," said the 32-year-old Vettel. "One needs to use one's imagination and to adopt a new approach to a situation that has changed. I myself will take the time I need to reflect on what really matters when it comes to my future." After the first 10 races of the coronavirus-hit 2020 campaign were either cancelled or postponed, organisers hope to start the season in Austria with back-to-back races on July 5 and 12. F1 chief Chase Carey last week insisted a 15-18 race season was still possible, but he admitted that all scenarios are on the table "including the remote possibility of no racing in 2020".

Sainz to succeed Vettel at Ferrari as Ricciardo heads to McLaren

Turkish authorities have arrested a former top-tier soccer player who confessed to killing his 5-year-old son while the boy was being treated in a hospital on suspicion of a COVID-19 infection.

Cevher Toktas, 32, handed himself over to police and confessed to having smothered his son, Kasim, with a pillow on May 4, the state-run Anadolu Agency reported.

The boy's death was initially not believed to be suspicious, although he tested negative for COVID-19. His body has been exhumed for an autopsy as part of the investigation, Anadolu reported.

HaberTurk television reported that Toktas, who currently plays with amateur league team Bursa Yildirimspor, told police that he tried to suffocate his son because he did not love him, and turned himself in to police 11 days later because he felt remorse.

The boy was admitted to the children's hospital in the northwestern province of Bursa with a cough and high fever on April 23,&nbsp;an official Turkish public holiday celebrating children,&nbsp;and placed in isolation along with his father.

Soon after, Toktas said, he smothered the boy and called for help, saying Kasim had taken a turn for the worse. The 5-year-old was rushed to the hospital's intensive care unit, where he died two hours later.

No trial date has been set yet.

Between 2007 and 2009, Toktas played for the Hacettepe soccer team, which briefly competed in the Turkish top-tier Super League.

Turkish authorities have arrested a former top-tier soccer player who confessed to killing his 5-year-old son while the boy was being treated in a hospital on suspicion of a COVID-19 infection.

Turkish authorities have arrested a former top-tier soccer player who confessed to killing his 5-year-old son while the boy was being treated in a hospital on suspicion of a COVID-19 infection. Cevher Toktas, 32, handed himself over to police and confessed to having smothered his son, Kasim, with a pillow on May 4, the state-run Anadolu Agency reported. The boy's death was initially not believed to be suspicious, although he tested negative for COVID-19. His body has been exhumed for an autopsy as part of the investigation, Anadolu reported. HaberTurk television reported that Toktas, who currently plays with amateur league team Bursa Yildirimspor, told police that he tried to suffocate his son because he did not love him, and turned himself in to police 11 days later because he felt remorse. The boy was admitted to the children's hospital in the northwestern province of Bursa with a cough and high fever on April 23, an official Turkish public holiday celebrating children, and placed in isolation along with his father. Soon after, Toktas said, he smothered the boy and called for help, saying Kasim had taken a turn for the worse. The 5-year-old was rushed to the hospital's intensive care unit, where he died two hours later. No trial date has been set yet. Between 2007 and 2009, Toktas played for the Hacettepe soccer team, which briefly competed in the Turkish top-tier Super League.

Turkish soccer player confesses to killing son in hospital

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hockey legend Balbir Singh Senior has suffered two more cardiac arrests and he continues to be critical, his maternal grandson Kabir said, giving an update on his health condition on Thursday.

The triple Olympic medallist had suffered a cardiac arrest on Tuesday morning as well and has been on ventilator support since then.

"Nana ji suffered two more cardiac arrests yesterday. His condition has not deteriorated since then but continues to be very critical and on ventilator assistance," said Kabir.

Kabir further said that Sr is still in ICU of the hospital where doctors are continuously assessing his condition.

The 96-year-old was hospitalised on Friday evening with high fever.

In January last year, he was discharged from PGIMER, Chandigarh after spending 108 days in the hospital, where he underwent treatment for bronchial pneumonia

Hockey legend Balbir Singh Senior has suffered two more cardiac arrests and he continues to be critical, his maternal grandson Kabir said, giving an update on his health condition on Thursday.

Hockey legend Balbir Singh Senior has suffered two more cardiac arrests and he continues to be critical, his maternal grandson Kabir said, giving an update on his health condition on Thursday. The triple Olympic medallist had suffered a cardiac arrest on Tuesday morning as well and has been on ventilator support since then. "Nana ji suffered two more cardiac arrests yesterday. His condition has not deteriorated since then but continues to be very critical and on ventilator assistance," said Kabir. Kabir further said that Sr is still in ICU of the hospital where doctors are continuously assessing his condition. The 96-year-old was hospitalised on Friday evening with high fever. In January last year, he was discharged from PGIMER, Chandigarh after spending 108 days in the hospital, where he underwent treatment for bronchial pneumonia

Hockey legend Balbir Singh Senior suffers two more cardiac arrests, remains critical

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Italy’s top-flight league Serie A has agreed on June 13 resumption date after completing a video call with all 20 clubs on Wednesday. However, the resumption of Serie A is subject to government approval.&nbsp;

All the clubs have already started their planning to resume full training on May 18 following the Italian government’s approval of league’s medical protocol amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Individual training has already begun in Italy.

"As far as the resumption of sports activities is concerned, the date of June 13 for the resumption of the championship has been indicated ... in accordance with medical protocols for the protection of players and all those involved," Serie A said in a statement. 
Serie A further stated that the clubs have also asked the broadcasting rights holders to “respect the payment deadlines” in a bid to maintain a healthy relationship with them.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/efls-economic-crisis-will-not-be-spared-behind-closed-doors-298598" hreflang="en">EFL's economic crisis will not be spared behind closed doors</a>

When the Serie A was suspended in the month of March, Juventus were one point ahead of Lazio in the league standings. While Juventus are eyeing their ninth consecutive Serie A title, Lazio haven’t won the league since 2000.

There are still 12 rounds of matches remaining in Serie A in addition to four postponed matches. The biggest problem for both Serie A and Italian government would be how they deal with players should they test positive to COVID-19.&nbsp;

While the Italian football federation has said that isolating the positive tested player is sufficient, the Italian health ministry has said that the entire squad needs to go into a 14-day quarantine period.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ex-argentina-attacker-ezequiel-lavezzi-makes-sex-video-blackmail-complaint-298596" hreflang="en">Ex-Argentina attacker Ezequiel Lavezzi makes sex video blackmail complaint</a>

Earlier on Wednesday, Sports Minister Vincenzo Spadafora told the Italian Senate that the government would take its time in providing their decision regarding the return of live football.&nbsp;

"If [Serie A] resumes, as we all hope, it will be because we will have arrived at this decision after an orderly succession of actions and protocols," he said. "It is not possible to decide in an irresponsible hurry.

"Football is by its nature a sport in which it is not possible to keep distances, the players must run and agglomerate in the penalty area.

"The underestimation of this problem led a few weeks ago to the quarantine of several Serie A teams. We want to avoid finding ourselves in this situation."

Meanwhile, the German Bundesliga is set to resume the league on May 16. Whereas La Liga is steadily allowing the more players to train with a hope to restart the league on June 12.

Italy’s top-flight league Serie A has agreed on June 13 resumption date after completing a video call with all 20 clubs on Wednesday. However, the resumption of Serie A is subject to government approval.

Italy’s top-flight league Serie A has agreed on June 13 resumption date after completing a video call with all 20 clubs on Wednesday. However, the resumption of Serie A is subject to government approval. All the clubs have already started their planning to resume full training on May 18 following the Italian government’s approval of league’s medical protocol amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Individual training has already begun in Italy. "As far as the resumption of sports activities is concerned, the date of June 13 for the resumption of the championship has been indicated ... in accordance with medical protocols for the protection of players and all those involved," Serie A said in a statement. Serie A further stated that the clubs have also asked the broadcasting rights holders to “respect the payment deadlines” in a bid to maintain a healthy relationship with them. ALSO READ: EFL's economic crisis will not be spared behind closed doors When the Serie A was suspended in the month of March, Juventus were one point ahead of Lazio in the league standings. While Juventus are eyeing their ninth consecutive Serie A title, Lazio haven’t won the league since 2000. There are still 12 rounds of matches remaining in Serie A in addition to four postponed matches. The biggest problem for both Serie A and Italian government would be how they deal with players should they test positive to COVID-19. While the Italian football federation has said that isolating the positive tested player is sufficient, the Italian health ministry has said that the entire squad needs to go into a 14-day quarantine period. ALSO READ: Ex-Argentina attacker Ezequiel Lavezzi makes sex video blackmail complaint Earlier on Wednesday, Sports Minister Vincenzo Spadafora told the Italian Senate that the government would take its time in providing their decision regarding the return of live football. "If [Serie A] resumes, as we all hope, it will be because we will have arrived at this decision after an orderly succession of actions and protocols," he said. "It is not possible to decide in an irresponsible hurry. "Football is by its nature a sport in which it is not possible to keep distances, the players must run and agglomerate in the penalty area. "The underestimation of this problem led a few weeks ago to the quarantine of several Serie A teams. We want to avoid finding ourselves in this situation." Meanwhile, the German Bundesliga is set to resume the league on May 16. Whereas La Liga is steadily allowing the more players to train with a hope to restart the league on June 12.

Serie A agrees on June 13 resumption after meeting with all 20 clubs

Bayern Munich are in pole position to win an eighth straight title, but Borussia Dortmund lead the chasing pack and are spearheaded by Erling Braut Haaland as the Bundesliga comes out of its coronavirus-enforced hibernation this weekend.

AFP Sport takes a look at what is at stake on the field when the German top flight ends a two-month shutdown to play out its final nine matchdays.

<h2>- Some things stay the same... -</h2>

Teams have undergone testing and been forced into quarantine training camps because of the virus, and all matches will be played behind closed doors in the league with the highest attendances in world football.

So this will not be the Bundesliga as we know it, but something else may be just as before -- Bayern, the country's most successful club, are on track to win another title, which would be their eighth in a row.

They had put a patchy start to the season under Niko Kovac behind them before the shutdown, with Hansi Flick coming in as coach and Bayern winning 10 and drawing one of their last 11 league games.

The Bavarians are four points clear of Dortmund at the top and have been busy since their last game, with Flick signing a new contract until 2023.

Key players Thomas Mueller and Alphonso Davies followed suit by penning extensions of their own, while former striker Miroslav Klose has joined as assistant coach.

With Robert Lewandowski scoring 25 goals in 23 games, Bayern are formidable. They still have to visit Dortmund and Bayer Leverkusen, although it remains to be seen how much home advantage will matter without fans.

<h2>- Watch out for Haaland -</h2>

It could still just about be a four-horse title race, with Borussia Moenchengladbach six points off the pace in fourth, but Dortmund are best-placed to stop Bayern.

Lucien Favre's side were last seen going out of the Champions League to Paris Saint-Germain, but before that were in thrilling form led by young stars Haaland and Jadon Sancho.

They won seven out of eight league games after 19-year-old Norwegian powerhouse Haaland arrived from Red Bull Salzburg. He scored nine goals in that run.

Dortmund, though, will not be able to rely on their fans who usually pack the 81,000-capacity Signal Iduna Park and their next two home games -- against Ruhr rivals Schalke on Saturday and then Bayern -- will lose much of their edge as a result.

"Having to play behind closed doors is an enormous challenge, especially for a club like BVB, which draws a lot of strength from the passion of its supporters," admitted Dortmund chief executive Hans-Joachim Watzke.

Dortmund also must still visit Leipzig, who reached the Champions League quarter-finals before the suspension but whose patchy league form after the winter break saw them fall off the pace.

In Timo Werner, they have their own fearsome striker. And in Julian Nagelsmann, 32, they have one of Europe's most exciting young coaches, so anything is possible.

Gladbach were the last team to beat Bayern in the league but would now settle for holding off fifth-placed Leverkusen to secure Champions League qualification.

There are two points between those sides, who are due to meet next weekend.

Beneath them, in the fight for one Europa League spot, Schalke, Wolfsburg, Freiburg and Hoffenheim are all within two points.

<h2>- Bremen in danger -</h2>

At the bottom Paderborn prop up the division but the plight of Werder Bremen is more striking.

The four-time champions are four points adrift of Fortuna Dusseldorf in the relegation play-off place and eight points from outright safety.

They have a game in hand, but are in danger of following the path of Hamburg and Stuttgart, two giants to have been relegated in recent seasons.

"We all know how precarious our league position is. That's motivation enough," said sporting director Frank Baumann when asked about playing home games without fans.

Elsewhere, Hertha Berlin seem far enough clear of relegation trouble but it has been a chaotic campaign in the capital.

Bruno Labbadia has become the club's fourth coach this season since the shutdown began, with Jurgen Klinsmann's short-lived time in charge ending.

Bayern Munich are in pole position to win an eighth straight title, but Borussia Dortmund lead the chasing pack and are spearheaded by Erling Braut Haaland as the Bundesliga comes out of its coronavirus-enforced hibernation this weekend.

Bayern Munich are in pole position to win an eighth straight title, but Borussia Dortmund lead the chasing pack and are spearheaded by Erling Braut Haaland as the Bundesliga comes out of its coronavirus-enforced hibernation this weekend. AFP Sport takes a look at what is at stake on the field when the German top flight ends a two-month shutdown to play out its final nine matchdays. - Some things stay the same... - Teams have undergone testing and been forced into quarantine training camps because of the virus, and all matches will be played behind closed doors in the league with the highest attendances in world football. So this will not be the Bundesliga as we know it, but something else may be just as before -- Bayern, the country's most successful club, are on track to win another title, which would be their eighth in a row. They had put a patchy start to the season under Niko Kovac behind them before the shutdown, with Hansi Flick coming in as coach and Bayern winning 10 and drawing one of their last 11 league games. The Bavarians are four points clear of Dortmund at the top and have been busy since their last game, with Flick signing a new contract until 2023. Key players Thomas Mueller and Alphonso Davies followed suit by penning extensions of their own, while former striker Miroslav Klose has joined as assistant coach. With Robert Lewandowski scoring 25 goals in 23 games, Bayern are formidable. They still have to visit Dortmund and Bayer Leverkusen, although it remains to be seen how much home advantage will matter without fans. - Watch out for Haaland - It could still just about be a four-horse title race, with Borussia Moenchengladbach six points off the pace in fourth, but Dortmund are best-placed to stop Bayern. Lucien Favre's side were last seen going out of the Champions League to Paris Saint-Germain, but before that were in thrilling form led by young stars Haaland and Jadon Sancho. They won seven out of eight league games after 19-year-old Norwegian powerhouse Haaland arrived from Red Bull Salzburg. He scored nine goals in that run. Dortmund, though, will not be able to rely on their fans who usually pack the 81,000-capacity Signal Iduna Park and their next two home games -- against Ruhr rivals Schalke on Saturday and then Bayern -- will lose much of their edge as a result. "Having to play behind closed doors is an enormous challenge, especially for a club like BVB, which draws a lot of strength from the passion of its supporters," admitted Dortmund chief executive Hans-Joachim Watzke. Dortmund also must still visit Leipzig, who reached the Champions League quarter-finals before the suspension but whose patchy league form after the winter break saw them fall off the pace. In Timo Werner, they have their own fearsome striker. And in Julian Nagelsmann, 32, they have one of Europe's most exciting young coaches, so anything is possible. Gladbach were the last team to beat Bayern in the league but would now settle for holding off fifth-placed Leverkusen to secure Champions League qualification. There are two points between those sides, who are due to meet next weekend. Beneath them, in the fight for one Europa League spot, Schalke, Wolfsburg, Freiburg and Hoffenheim are all within two points. - Bremen in danger - At the bottom Paderborn prop up the division but the plight of Werder Bremen is more striking. The four-time champions are four points adrift of Fortuna Dusseldorf in the relegation play-off place and eight points from outright safety. They have a game in hand, but are in danger of following the path of Hamburg and Stuttgart, two giants to have been relegated in recent seasons. "We all know how precarious our league position is. That's motivation enough," said sporting director Frank Baumann when asked about playing home games without fans. Elsewhere, Hertha Berlin seem far enough clear of relegation trouble but it has been a chaotic campaign in the capital. Bruno Labbadia has become the club's fourth coach this season since the shutdown began, with Jurgen Klinsmann's short-lived time in charge ending.

The Bundesliga is back, so can Dortmund catch Bayern?

US superstar Serena Williams says she's ready to play "real tennis" after the enforced rest of coronavirus quarantine.

"I really look forward to getting back on the court," the 23-time Grand Slam champion said in a chat with elder sister Venus during an Instagram live workout on Tuesday.

"It's what I do best. I absolutely love playing."

Tennis is on hiatus until at least mid-July thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic, with the French Open postponed until autumn and Wimbledon cancelled for the first time since World War II.

Serena said she'd come to see the break as "a necessary evil.

"I felt like my body needed it, even though I didn't want it," said the 38-year-old, who last won a Grand Slam title at the 2017 Australian Open. "And now I'm feeling better than ever. I'm feeling more relaxed, more fit. Now I can go out and play real tennis."

Elder sister Venus, a seven-time Grand Slam winner, began posting workouts on Instagram eight weeks ago and this week she invited Serena, "the greatest tennis player to ever exist -- my little sister" to share a yoga-inspired stretching session.

Serena said the exercises, which took about half an hour, served as a warm-up for her, even though they were "a little intense."

"Do not injure yourself doing this," she admonished during one lunge, while advising at another point:&nbsp; "If you have bad knees, like me, use a pad."

US superstar Serena Williams says she's ready to play "real tennis" after the enforced rest of coronavirus quarantine. "I really look forward to getting back on the court," the 23-time Grand Slam champion said in a chat with elder sister Venus during an Instagram live workout on Tuesday.

US superstar Serena Williams says she's ready to play "real tennis" after the enforced rest of coronavirus quarantine. "I really look forward to getting back on the court," the 23-time Grand Slam champion said in a chat with elder sister Venus during an Instagram live workout on Tuesday. "It's what I do best. I absolutely love playing." Tennis is on hiatus until at least mid-July thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic, with the French Open postponed until autumn and Wimbledon cancelled for the first time since World War II. Serena said she'd come to see the break as "a necessary evil. "I felt like my body needed it, even though I didn't want it," said the 38-year-old, who last won a Grand Slam title at the 2017 Australian Open. "And now I'm feeling better than ever. I'm feeling more relaxed, more fit. Now I can go out and play real tennis." Elder sister Venus, a seven-time Grand Slam winner, began posting workouts on Instagram eight weeks ago and this week she invited Serena, "the greatest tennis player to ever exist -- my little sister" to share a yoga-inspired stretching session. Serena said the exercises, which took about half an hour, served as a warm-up for her, even though they were "a little intense." "Do not injure yourself doing this," she admonished during one lunge, while advising at another point: "If you have bad knees, like me, use a pad."

Serena eager to return after lockdown break

Portugal's Primeira Liga will be able to restart the season from its coronavirus-forced suspension on June 4, the country's football league announced on Tuesday.

"We wish to guarantee stadiums are rigorously inspected and the professionals are tested. June 4 is the date when the 25th round of matches of Liga Portugal can resume," the league said statement said.

At the end of last month Portugal's Prime Minister Antonio Costa had announced the final weekend of May as the restart date for the country's top flight.

The Portuguese government have said the last 10 rounds of the season, which was suspended on March 12, will have to be played according to strict medical protocol.

Players will have to pass coronavirus tests twice a week and matches will be played "in the fewest number of stadiums possible". Authorities will now identify which grounds matches can be played in.

The league's announcement comes a day after Benfica announced their midfielder David Tavares had tested positive for COVID-19.

Benfica said that Tavares, 21, who is not a regular first-team player, was asymptomatic and in quarantine. His positive test follows Vitoria Guimaraes confirming three positive cases on Saturday and Moreirense one more.

The overall tally for positive cases in the Primeira Liga is at least eight players.&nbsp;

Porto are top of the league, one point ahead of reigning champions Benfica, with Braga and Sporting Lisbon 13 and 15 points back respectively.

Portugal's Primeira Liga will be able to restart the season from its coronavirus-forced suspension on June 4, the country's football league announced on Tuesday.

Portugal's Primeira Liga will be able to restart the season from its coronavirus-forced suspension on June 4, the country's football league announced on Tuesday. "We wish to guarantee stadiums are rigorously inspected and the professionals are tested. June 4 is the date when the 25th round of matches of Liga Portugal can resume," the league said statement said. At the end of last month Portugal's Prime Minister Antonio Costa had announced the final weekend of May as the restart date for the country's top flight. The Portuguese government have said the last 10 rounds of the season, which was suspended on March 12, will have to be played according to strict medical protocol. Players will have to pass coronavirus tests twice a week and matches will be played "in the fewest number of stadiums possible". Authorities will now identify which grounds matches can be played in. The league's announcement comes a day after Benfica announced their midfielder David Tavares had tested positive for COVID-19. Benfica said that Tavares, 21, who is not a regular first-team player, was asymptomatic and in quarantine. His positive test follows Vitoria Guimaraes confirming three positive cases on Saturday and Moreirense one more. The overall tally for positive cases in the Primeira Liga is at least eight players. Porto are top of the league, one point ahead of reigning champions Benfica, with Braga and Sporting Lisbon 13 and 15 points back respectively.

Portuguese football restart set for June 4

Premier League players are set to be subjected to a strict testing regime if they are to return to training amid the coronavirus pandemic, according to British media reports.

The BBC said Tuesday it had seen a copy of official protocols sent to all 20 Premier League clubs detailing the need for corner-flags, balls, cones, goalposts and even playing surfaces to be disinfected after each training session.

Other measures in the guidance include twice-weekly testing, and a daily pre-training questionnaire and temperature check.

Should a player test positive, with or without symptoms, they will be forced to self-isolate for seven days.

All players will have ro travel to a training ground individually and avoid public transport. Once there they will not be allowed to gather in communal areas and won't be fed on the premises.

Tackling and contact will reportedly be banned for the first phase of team training.

Meanwhile club medical staff must wear personal protection equipment when treating the players.

A meeting involving players, the Professional Footballers' Association and the British government over safety and health issues surrounding a possible restart of the game is set to take place on Wednesday.

PFA chief executive Gordon Taylor, said his members would be open to playing again provided "everything that can be done is being done" to assure their safety.&nbsp;

"We've got to try it, see if we can do it and see if we can return to some form of activity," Taylor told the Mirror.

"But it's also being as careful and having as many assurances as possible that it's achievable."

However, England internationals Raheem Sterling and Danny Rose are the two latest high-profile players to raise their concerns over a return to contact sport when the rest of society is being advised to follow social-distancing guidelines.

<h2>- 'Lives at risk' -</h2>

"The moment we do go back it just needs to be a moment where it's not just for footballing reasons, it's safe for not just us footballers but the whole medical staff, referees," Sterling told his YouTube channel.

Meanwhile Rose, on loan at Newcastle from Tottenham, told an Instagram live: "People's lives are at risk.

"Football shouldn't even be spoken about coming back until the numbers have dropped massively."

A further complication for Project Restart is where any matches would be played, with the clubs opposed to a proposal for a limited number of neutral venues to be used.

The UK's national football policing lead previously stated resuming matches on a home-and-away basis would "present challenges" to the emergency services.

But Mark Roberts said on Tuesday that police, government and football authorities were working together on a plan "which minimises any risks to public safety and unnecessary pressure on public services, but facilitates a sensible restart to the season."

London Mayor Sadiq Khan has come out against the idea of playing matches in the capital at this stage, with the city having been particularly badly hit by the pandemic.

Five of the 20 Premier League sides are based in London.

"With the country still in the grips of this crisis, and hundreds of people dying every day, he believes that it is too early to be discussing the resumption of the Premier League and top-flight sport in the capital," Khan's spokesperson told the Evening Standard.

Premier League clubs face having to pay a huge refund to broadcasters even if they manage to complete the virus-disrupted season behind closed doors.

Broadcasters would be reimbursed for matches not being played as scheduled and the lack of atmosphere in empty stadiums is also a factor.

The BBC reported the bill could be as high as £340 million ($420 million) and would surge to £760 million if the season cannot be completed.&nbsp;

Premier League chief executive Richard Masters has previously warned of a £1 billion loss once the absence of gate receipts is taken into account.

New government guidelines have paved the way for elite sport to return behind closed doors in England from June 1.

Britain has been one of the worst hit by the global pandemic, with the UK government officially recording more than 32,000 deaths from COVID-19.

Premier League players are set to be subjected to a strict testing regime if they are to return to training amid the coronavirus pandemic, according to British media reports.

Premier League players are set to be subjected to a strict testing regime if they are to return to training amid the coronavirus pandemic, according to British media reports. The BBC said Tuesday it had seen a copy of official protocols sent to all 20 Premier League clubs detailing the need for corner-flags, balls, cones, goalposts and even playing surfaces to be disinfected after each training session. Other measures in the guidance include twice-weekly testing, and a daily pre-training questionnaire and temperature check. Should a player test positive, with or without symptoms, they will be forced to self-isolate for seven days. All players will have ro travel to a training ground individually and avoid public transport. Once there they will not be allowed to gather in communal areas and won't be fed on the premises. Tackling and contact will reportedly be banned for the first phase of team training. Meanwhile club medical staff must wear personal protection equipment when treating the players. A meeting involving players, the Professional Footballers' Association and the British government over safety and health issues surrounding a possible restart of the game is set to take place on Wednesday. PFA chief executive Gordon Taylor, said his members would be open to playing again provided "everything that can be done is being done" to assure their safety. "We've got to try it, see if we can do it and see if we can return to some form of activity," Taylor told the Mirror. "But it's also being as careful and having as many assurances as possible that it's achievable." However, England internationals Raheem Sterling and Danny Rose are the two latest high-profile players to raise their concerns over a return to contact sport when the rest of society is being advised to follow social-distancing guidelines. - 'Lives at risk' - "The moment we do go back it just needs to be a moment where it's not just for footballing reasons, it's safe for not just us footballers but the whole medical staff, referees," Sterling told his YouTube channel. Meanwhile Rose, on loan at Newcastle from Tottenham, told an Instagram live: "People's lives are at risk. "Football shouldn't even be spoken about coming back until the numbers have dropped massively." A further complication for Project Restart is where any matches would be played, with the clubs opposed to a proposal for a limited number of neutral venues to be used. The UK's national football policing lead previously stated resuming matches on a home-and-away basis would "present challenges" to the emergency services. But Mark Roberts said on Tuesday that police, government and football authorities were working together on a plan "which minimises any risks to public safety and unnecessary pressure on public services, but facilitates a sensible restart to the season." London Mayor Sadiq Khan has come out against the idea of playing matches in the capital at this stage, with the city having been particularly badly hit by the pandemic. Five of the 20 Premier League sides are based in London. "With the country still in the grips of this crisis, and hundreds of people dying every day, he believes that it is too early to be discussing the resumption of the Premier League and top-flight sport in the capital," Khan's spokesperson told the Evening Standard. Premier League clubs face having to pay a huge refund to broadcasters even if they manage to complete the virus-disrupted season behind closed doors. Broadcasters would be reimbursed for matches not being played as scheduled and the lack of atmosphere in empty stadiums is also a factor. The BBC reported the bill could be as high as £340 million ($420 million) and would surge to £760 million if the season cannot be completed. Premier League chief executive Richard Masters has previously warned of a £1 billion loss once the absence of gate receipts is taken into account. New government guidelines have paved the way for elite sport to return behind closed doors in England from June 1. Britain has been one of the worst hit by the global pandemic, with the UK government officially recording more than 32,000 deaths from COVID-19.

Premier League players face strict new training protocols

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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