<p>Paris Saint-Germain have been crowned champions of France despite the 2019/20 season getting called off due to COVID-19 pandemic. France’s Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 were not given permission to resume the halted season by the French government on Tuesday and now PSG have been awarded the titles courtesy their 12-point lead at the top of the table.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Even though it is not yet officially confirmed, but PSG and Marseille will be taking up automatic qualification spots for the UEFA Champions League 2020/21 season with Stade Rennes going into the qualification round of the UCL. Whereas in UEFA Europa League will see LOSC Lille and Reims getting a direct entry while OGC Nice will play the qualification round of the competition.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/braithwaite-people-see-me-as-the-emergency-signing-but-i-deserve-to-be-at-barca-295798" hreflang="en">Braithwaite: People see me as the emergency signing but I deserve to be at Barca</a></strong></p>

<p>Toulouse and Amiens have been reportedly relegated whereas Lorient and Lens were promoted to Ligue 1 from Ligue 2.</p>

<p>The 2019/20 season’s last round of fixtures were played on March 7 and 8 with PSG sitting 12 points clear of second-placed Marseille with a game in hand.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/league-by-league-guide-to-european-footballs-coronavirus-shutdown-295772" hreflang="en">League-by-league guide to European football's coronavirus shutdown</a></strong></p>

<p>Ligue 1’s current standings will be taken as final which means Lyon will play no European football for the first time since 1997.&nbsp;<br />
Meanwhile, PSG have won the Ligue 1 title in 1985/86, 1993/94, 2012/13, 2013/14, 2014/15, 2015/16, 2017/18, 2018/19, 2019/20.</p>

<p>Earlier, France Prime Minister Edouard Philippe announced on Tuesday that French professional sports leagues including football and rugby won’t be able to resume action before September due to COVID-19 restrictions.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Paris Saint-Germain have been crowned champions of France despite the 2019/20 season getting called off due to COVID-19 pandemic. France’s Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 were not given permission to resume the halted season by the French government on Tuesday and now PSG have been awarded the titles courtesy their 12-point lead at the top of the table.

Paris Saint-Germain have been crowned champions of France despite the 2019/20 season getting called off due to COVID-19 pandemic. France’s Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 were not given permission to resume the halted season by the French government on Tuesday and now PSG have been awarded the titles courtesy their 12-point lead at the top of the table. Even though it is not yet officially confirmed, but PSG and Marseille will be taking up automatic qualification spots for the UEFA Champions League 2020/21 season with Stade Rennes going into the qualification round of the UCL. Whereas in UEFA Europa League will see LOSC Lille and Reims getting a direct entry while OGC Nice will play the qualification round of the competition. ALSO READ: Braithwaite: People see me as the emergency signing but I deserve to be at Barca Toulouse and Amiens have been reportedly relegated whereas Lorient and Lens were promoted to Ligue 1 from Ligue 2. The 2019/20 season’s last round of fixtures were played on March 7 and 8 with PSG sitting 12 points clear of second-placed Marseille with a game in hand. ALSO READ: League-by-league guide to European football's coronavirus shutdown Ligue 1’s current standings will be taken as final which means Lyon will play no European football for the first time since 1997. Meanwhile, PSG have won the Ligue 1 title in 1985/86, 1993/94, 2012/13, 2013/14, 2014/15, 2015/16, 2017/18, 2018/19, 2019/20. Earlier, France Prime Minister Edouard Philippe announced on Tuesday that French professional sports leagues including football and rugby won’t be able to resume action before September due to COVID-19 restrictions.

PSG crowned champions of France despite season ending prematurely

<p>Rohit Sharma’s rise in the world of cricket has been narrated by his willow. The swashbuckling Mumbai batsman broke into the team as a middle-order batsman in 2008 after impressing in the domestic circuit. He made his mark while playing in the middle-order for India but missed the bus for the 2011 World Cup, which India won, due to inconsistent run with the bat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But since, then it has been a roller-coaster ride for the ‘Hitman’, who has cemented his place as one of the greatest openers in the limited-overs circuit. He is also regarded as a fine captain after leading Mumbai Indians to a record four IPL titles while captaining India in numerous matches.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mitchell-marsh-awarded-australia-contract-marcus-stoinis-usman-khawaja-among-6-axed-295789" hreflang="en">Mitchell Marsh awarded Australia contract, Marcus Stoinis, Usman Khawaja among 6 axed</a></strong></p>

<p>As Rohit is celebrating his 33rd birthday on Thursday, we take a look at a unique feat held by the Hitman in T20 cricket. Rohit is the only Indian player to have scored a century and taken a hat-trick in the history of Indian Premier League. &nbsp;</p>

<p>In the inaugural edition of IPL, Rohit was bought by Deccan Chargers for $7,50,000. Rohit went on to score 404 runs at a strike-rate of 147.98 but failed to continue his performance in the next edition of the cash-rich tournament. However, the elegant batsman did pick-up a hat-trick against Mumbai Indians, a team with whom he would go onto create&nbsp;history.</p>

<p>Rohit dismissed Abishek Nayar, Harbhajan Singh and JP Duminy against Mumbai Indians and ended with figures of 2-0-6-4. Deccan Chargers further went on to win the IPL title that season whereas Rohit was named Emerging Player of the Year.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/there-is-no-comparison-shoaib-akthar-says-imran-nazir-was-more-talented-than-virender-sehwag-295489" hreflang="en">'There is no comparison' - Shoaib Akthar says Imran Nazir was more talented than Virender Sehwag</a></strong></p>

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<p>Rohit, has since never looked back and went on to create a legacy of his own.&nbsp;</p>


Rohit Sharma’s rise in the world of cricket has been narrated by his willow. The swashbuckling Mumbai batsman broke into the team as a middle-order batsman in 2008 after impressing in the domestic circuit.

Rohit Sharma’s rise in the world of cricket has been narrated by his willow. The swashbuckling Mumbai batsman broke into the team as a middle-order batsman in 2008 after impressing in the domestic circuit. He made his mark while playing in the middle-order for India but missed the bus for the 2011 World Cup, which India won, due to inconsistent run with the bat. But since, then it has been a roller-coaster ride for the ‘Hitman’, who has cemented his place as one of the greatest openers in the limited-overs circuit. He is also regarded as a fine captain after leading Mumbai Indians to a record four IPL titles while captaining India in numerous matches. ALSO READ: Mitchell Marsh awarded Australia contract, Marcus Stoinis, Usman Khawaja among 6 axed As Rohit is celebrating his 33rd birthday on Thursday, we take a look at a unique feat held by the Hitman in T20 cricket. Rohit is the only Indian player to have scored a century and taken a hat-trick in the history of Indian Premier League. In the inaugural edition of IPL, Rohit was bought by Deccan Chargers for $7,50,000. Rohit went on to score 404 runs at a strike-rate of 147.98 but failed to continue his performance in the next edition of the cash-rich tournament. However, the elegant batsman did pick-up a hat-trick against Mumbai Indians, a team with whom he would go onto create history. Rohit dismissed Abishek Nayar, Harbhajan Singh and JP Duminy against Mumbai Indians and ended with figures of 2-0-6-4. Deccan Chargers further went on to win the IPL title that season whereas Rohit was named Emerging Player of the Year. ALSO READ: 'There is no comparison' - Shoaib Akthar says Imran Nazir was more talented than Virender Sehwag × Rohit, has since never looked back and went on to create a legacy of his own.

Happy Birthday Rohit Sharma: When 'Hitman' scalped a hat-trick against Mumbai Indians in IPL

<p>Martin Braithwaite was Barcelona's emergency signing in February, a quick-fix to replace the injured Ousmane Dembele, but for him the move goes back 10 years to a broken leg and a notebook.</p>

<p>In his first meeting with the club's president Josep Maria Bartomeu and technical secretary Eric Abidal, Braithwaite was told one of the main reasons Barca were buying him was his mentality.</p>

<p>"I felt like they really knew me," Braithwaite says in an interview with AFP. "They knew how strong I am mentally and they said that was one of the things that made them go for me. They thought I was up for the test."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The toughness they saw owes much to when Braithwaite was 18 and playing for Esbjerg FB in Denmark. A broken leg prompted him to transform his attitude and start writing objectives down in a notebook.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I was already a professional footballer but I wasn't respecting the job and I wasn't respecting the boy that had a dream to be here," Braithwaite says. "I took it for granted."&nbsp;</p>

<p>A year later, Braithwaite was in a hotel after joining Toulouse when he took out his notebook again.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I came to a page of some objectives, maybe three or four years earlier, and I saw I had written Toulouse," Braithwaite says. "When I saw that, I thought, 'Wow, the power of the mind is really strong'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"And when I was 27 or 28, I wrote I would play for one of the biggest clubs in the world. Now I'm here, where I said I would be 10 years ago."</p>

<h2>- 'Embarrassed' -</h2>

<p>Braithwaite draws upon his childhood too, when a hip condition called Legg-Calve-Perthes left him in a wheelchair between the age of five and seven.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I remember I felt sad. I felt embarrassed," he says. "I was just a kid who wanted to play. I remember the look people would give me, like I was different.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Of course, I came through that and look where I am today but at the same time it makes me humble and grateful for the things I have."&nbsp;</p>

<p>For some, Barcelona buying Braithwaite was a result of opportunism, through the use of an obscure La Liga rule, and caused by bad planning, after a chaotic transfer window left the squad short.</p>

<p>But Braithwaite sees it as hard work paying off. Even during lockdown, he adds extra training to the club programme and watches videos of his teammates, learning where they move, run and pass, to speed up his adaptation.</p>

<p>"People see me as the emergency signing because that was how I got here," he says. "What people don't know is that for so many years I've put in my mind that I want to be here. It's not a coincidence.</p>

<p>"I'm at Barca, I signed for four years and I see my future here."</p>

<p>But his departure from Leganes left a bitter taste, even if few blamed Braithwaite for completing a dream move, not even Leganes, who were "fantastic, they understood".</p>

<h2>- Maybe the rule should be changed' -</h2>

<p>The rule that allowed Barcelona to sign a player outside the transfer window due to injuries meant Leganes, in the relegation zone, were unable to replace their top scorer, who joined the league leaders.</p>

<p>"Yeah, maybe the rule should be changed," Braithwaite said. "I understand because Leganes lost one of their main players, they can't get a replacement and they are in a difficult situation. I completely understand that."</p>

<p>Braithwaite played three games for his new team before the coronavirus caused La Liga to be suspended and he impressed, his willingness to run in behind and strike combinations with Lionel Messi quickly earning the praise of Barcelona fans.</p>

<p>"It's not difficult when you play with Messi. You just have to run and the ball is at your feet," he says.</p>

<p>But off the pitch, Barca have been consumed by political controversies, which have continued even as the games have stopped. Last month, the players' distrust of the board resurfaced around negotiations over wage cuts.</p>

<p>"Honestly inside the club there is a really good atmosphere," Braithwaite says. "We're not focusing on what is happening on the outside, we just want to play."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The season restarting is complex too, with La Liga's current plan to reintroduce training gradually before resuming games in June behind closed doors, which could last until next year.</p>

<p>"It's out of my control," says Braithwaite. "If the people in charge feel there is no risk in going back, I trust them. This is bigger than football right now, it's about people's health. We have to move cautiously."</p>

<p>Braithwaite's dedication means he has a better chance than most of hitting the ground running. But even he admits playing for Barcelona has occasionally caused his ice-cool demeanour to slip.</p>

<p>"When I'm playing and training, I'm doing what I always do," he says. "But sometimes at the start I would catch myself in the mirror at the training ground. I would see the badge on my shirt and I would think, 'Damn, I'm really here'."</p>


Martin Braithwaite was Barcelona's emergency signing in February, a quick-fix to replace the injured Ousmane Dembele, but for him the move goes back 10 years to a broken leg and a notebook.

Martin Braithwaite was Barcelona's emergency signing in February, a quick-fix to replace the injured Ousmane Dembele, but for him the move goes back 10 years to a broken leg and a notebook. In his first meeting with the club's president Josep Maria Bartomeu and technical secretary Eric Abidal, Braithwaite was told one of the main reasons Barca were buying him was his mentality. "I felt like they really knew me," Braithwaite says in an interview with AFP. "They knew how strong I am mentally and they said that was one of the things that made them go for me. They thought I was up for the test." The toughness they saw owes much to when Braithwaite was 18 and playing for Esbjerg FB in Denmark. A broken leg prompted him to transform his attitude and start writing objectives down in a notebook. "I was already a professional footballer but I wasn't respecting the job and I wasn't respecting the boy that had a dream to be here," Braithwaite says. "I took it for granted." A year later, Braithwaite was in a hotel after joining Toulouse when he took out his notebook again. "I came to a page of some objectives, maybe three or four years earlier, and I saw I had written Toulouse," Braithwaite says. "When I saw that, I thought, 'Wow, the power of the mind is really strong'. "And when I was 27 or 28, I wrote I would play for one of the biggest clubs in the world. Now I'm here, where I said I would be 10 years ago." - 'Embarrassed' - Braithwaite draws upon his childhood too, when a hip condition called Legg-Calve-Perthes left him in a wheelchair between the age of five and seven. "I remember I felt sad. I felt embarrassed," he says. "I was just a kid who wanted to play. I remember the look people would give me, like I was different. "Of course, I came through that and look where I am today but at the same time it makes me humble and grateful for the things I have." For some, Barcelona buying Braithwaite was a result of opportunism, through the use of an obscure La Liga rule, and caused by bad planning, after a chaotic transfer window left the squad short. But Braithwaite sees it as hard work paying off. Even during lockdown, he adds extra training to the club programme and watches videos of his teammates, learning where they move, run and pass, to speed up his adaptation. "People see me as the emergency signing because that was how I got here," he says. "What people don't know is that for so many years I've put in my mind that I want to be here. It's not a coincidence. "I'm at Barca, I signed for four years and I see my future here." But his departure from Leganes left a bitter taste, even if few blamed Braithwaite for completing a dream move, not even Leganes, who were "fantastic, they understood". - Maybe the rule should be changed' - The rule that allowed Barcelona to sign a player outside the transfer window due to injuries meant Leganes, in the relegation zone, were unable to replace their top scorer, who joined the league leaders. "Yeah, maybe the rule should be changed," Braithwaite said. "I understand because Leganes lost one of their main players, they can't get a replacement and they are in a difficult situation. I completely understand that." Braithwaite played three games for his new team before the coronavirus caused La Liga to be suspended and he impressed, his willingness to run in behind and strike combinations with Lionel Messi quickly earning the praise of Barcelona fans. "It's not difficult when you play with Messi. You just have to run and the ball is at your feet," he says. But off the pitch, Barca have been consumed by political controversies, which have continued even as the games have stopped. Last month, the players' distrust of the board resurfaced around negotiations over wage cuts. "Honestly inside the club there is a really good atmosphere," Braithwaite says. "We're not focusing on what is happening on the outside, we just want to play." The season restarting is complex too, with La Liga's current plan to reintroduce training gradually before resuming games in June behind closed doors, which could last until next year. "It's out of my control," says Braithwaite. "If the people in charge feel there is no risk in going back, I trust them. This is bigger than football right now, it's about people's health. We have to move cautiously." Braithwaite's dedication means he has a better chance than most of hitting the ground running. But even he admits playing for Barcelona has occasionally caused his ice-cool demeanour to slip. "When I'm playing and training, I'm doing what I always do," he says. "But sometimes at the start I would catch myself in the mirror at the training ground. I would see the badge on my shirt and I would think, 'Damn, I'm really here'."

Braithwaite: People see me as the emergency signing but I deserve to be at Barca

<p>There were some shocking exclusions from Cricket Australia’s list of 20 nationally contracted players on Thursday as the likes of Marcus Stoinis, Peter Handscomb, Usman Khawaja, among others were missing from the core group of Australian players. While all-rounder Mitchell Marsh found his way back to the centrally contracted players’ list, his elder brother Shaun was axed from the list.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Australian national selectors picked a group of players loaded with limited-overs talent in a bid to reflect on Australia’s forthcoming schedule including the ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled to be played in October-November.</p>

<p>"With many of the squad crossing into all three formats it gives us the benefit of being able to add in specialists depending on the opposition and the conditions," chief selector Trevor Hohns said in a statement.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ab-de-villiers-graeme-smith-dismiss-reports-stating-mr-360-was-offered-proteas-captaincy-295572" hreflang="en">AB de Villiers, Graeme Smith dismiss reports stating Mr. 360 was offered Proteas captaincy</a></strong></p>

<p>"The depth of this squad and the success of the past 12 months gives us that solid base."</p>

<p>The likes of Nathan Coulter-Nile and Marcus Harris were also missing from Australia’s centrally contracted players’ list.</p>

<p>"As is always the case there are unlucky omissions but, however, because you are not on the list does not mean you cannot be selected to represent Australia," Hohns said.</p>

<p>While Mitch Marsh found his name on the list after his omission from it last year as Hohns said "he has a lot of international cricket ahead of him as a batting all-rounder".</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australias-warner-says-england-tour-highly-unlikely-295475" hreflang="en">Australia's Warner says England tour 'highly unlikely'</a></strong></p>

<p>Australia’s young maestro Marnus Labuschagne was among the new faces along with Joe Burns, Ashton Agar, Kane Richardson and Matthew Wade with Hohns heaping praise on all of the latest inductees.</p>

<p>"Marnus's rise has been meteoric and well documented," Hohns said.</p>

<p>"Joe has been a good Test match player, Ashton Agar's form in T20 internationals has been exceptional, while Kane Richardson has been outstanding in the T20 and one-day games."</p>

<p><strong>Australia contracted players: </strong>Ashton Agar, Joe Burns, Alex Carey, Pat Cummins, Aaron Finch, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Tim Paine, James Pattinson, Jhye Richardson, Kane Richardson, Steven Smith, Mitchell Starc, Matthew Wade, David Warner, Adam Zampa.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


There were some shocking exclusions from Cricket Australia’s list of 20 nationally contracted players on Thursday as the likes of Marcus Stoinis, Peter Handscomb, Usman Khawaja, among others were missing from the core group of Australian players.

There were some shocking exclusions from Cricket Australia’s list of 20 nationally contracted players on Thursday as the likes of Marcus Stoinis, Peter Handscomb, Usman Khawaja, among others were missing from the core group of Australian players. While all-rounder Mitchell Marsh found his way back to the centrally contracted players’ list, his elder brother Shaun was axed from the list. The Australian national selectors picked a group of players loaded with limited-overs talent in a bid to reflect on Australia’s forthcoming schedule including the ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled to be played in October-November. "With many of the squad crossing into all three formats it gives us the benefit of being able to add in specialists depending on the opposition and the conditions," chief selector Trevor Hohns said in a statement. ALSO READ: AB de Villiers, Graeme Smith dismiss reports stating Mr. 360 was offered Proteas captaincy "The depth of this squad and the success of the past 12 months gives us that solid base." The likes of Nathan Coulter-Nile and Marcus Harris were also missing from Australia’s centrally contracted players’ list. "As is always the case there are unlucky omissions but, however, because you are not on the list does not mean you cannot be selected to represent Australia," Hohns said. While Mitch Marsh found his name on the list after his omission from it last year as Hohns said "he has a lot of international cricket ahead of him as a batting all-rounder". ALSO READ: Australia's Warner says England tour 'highly unlikely' Australia’s young maestro Marnus Labuschagne was among the new faces along with Joe Burns, Ashton Agar, Kane Richardson and Matthew Wade with Hohns heaping praise on all of the latest inductees. "Marnus's rise has been meteoric and well documented," Hohns said. "Joe has been a good Test match player, Ashton Agar's form in T20 internationals has been exceptional, while Kane Richardson has been outstanding in the T20 and one-day games." Australia contracted players: Ashton Agar, Joe Burns, Alex Carey, Pat Cummins, Aaron Finch, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Tim Paine, James Pattinson, Jhye Richardson, Kane Richardson, Steven Smith, Mitchell Starc, Matthew Wade, David Warner, Adam Zampa.

Mitchell Marsh awarded Australia contract, Marcus Stoinis, Usman Khawaja among 6 axed

<p>Football leagues across Europe have been suspended since March due to the coronavirus pandemic which has claimed over 130,000 lives throughout the continent.</p>

<p>Lockdown restrictions are in effect worldwide although some countries are cautiously beginning to ease stay-at-home orders.</p>

<p>AFP Sport looks at what we know about the plans for Europe's top leagues:</p>

<h2>ENGLAND</h2>

<p>Premier League chiefs are targeting a return in June and several clubs have reopened their training grounds this week as they work on "Project Restart".</p>

<p>The English top flight is understood to be aiming to run a huge testing operation to keep footballers safe, with reports of 26,000 tests being lined up for players and staff.</p>

<p>Teams could reportedly return to full training mid-May and resume matches on June 8, with the plans to be discussed at a meeting of stakeholders on Friday.</p>

<p>The clubs remain committed to ending the 2019-20 campaign and there are compelling financial and legal reasons to play the remaining 92 games. A failure to finish the season is forecast to cost Premier League clubs an estimated £1 billion ($1.2 billion).</p>

<p>Matches would almost certainly be played behind closed doors and clubs have reportedly been told that only approved stadiums could be used, with higher health certification than normal.</p>

<p>However, the Professional Footballers' Association have raised the issue of players not wanting to be put at risk by returning too soon.</p>

<h2>SPAIN</h2>

<p>La Liga players will be able to restart basic training from May 4, based on the Spanish government's plans announced Tuesday to transition out of a strict virus lockdown.</p>

<p>Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said the decision was the first move in lifting lockdown measures which will be done in four stages across two months.</p>

<p>Only in later stages of the process will full training sessions be able to take place.&nbsp;</p>

<p>League president Javier Tebas is hopeful the league can begin again in mid-June. He has said "it is not an option" to cancel the season given the economic fallout, estimating it would cost clubs around a billion euros.</p>

<p>"I do not understand why there would more danger in playing football behind closed doors, with all precautionary measures" than any other line of work, Tebas said.</p>

<p>"In Spain, football is an important economic driver that we need to reactivate like many others. We continue to focus on this reactivation, in a responsible manner and adhering to health recommendations, as soon as possible."</p>

<h2>ITALY</h2>

<p>Italy's sports minister Vincenzo Spadafora has warned Serie A could be called off, with the league facing "an increasingly narrow path" for its resumption.</p>

<p>The government has allowed individual athletes to resume training next week but team sports, including football, must wait until at least May 18. The move was slammed by Italy's footballers' union "as discriminatory and even illogical".</p>

<p>All 20 top-flight clubs have voted unanimously to complete the league season, but the final decision rests with the government.</p>

<p>An emergency meeting of the clubs will be held on Friday. Spadafora suggested "the majority could ask us to suspend this season and prepare for the next championship as best possible".</p>

<p>Italian football chiefs have already pushed back the end of the Serie A season from June 30 to August 2. The goal of a return to competition in early June has become impracticable, shifting the date towards June 10-14.</p>

<p>Another solution being touted would be a play-off to allocate the Scudetto and qualifying places for European competition and determine relegation.</p>

<h2>GERMANY</h2>

<p>The Bundesliga could resume by "the middle or end of May" according to the country's sports ministers, although it still requires the green light from Angela Merkel's government.</p>

<p>Chancellor Merkel will meet state leaders in Berlin on Thursday, when it is hoped the league will be granted permission to resume play from May 16.</p>

<p>Clubs returned to training at the start of the month while adhering to social distancing guidelines and games would be played behind closed doors, with large-scale public events banned in Germany until August 31.</p>

<p>Borussia Dortmund chief executive Hans-Joachim Watzke warned last weekend that "the entire Bundesliga will go down" unless the league restarts.</p>

<p>Germany's top clubs are desperate for the league season to be completed by June 30 in order to claim an instalment of television money worth 300 million euros ($325 million).</p>

<p>A primary sticking point is the testing of players, which critics claim will be an extra burden on Germany's health system.</p>

<h2>FRANCE</h2>

<p>The Ligue 1 season appears to be over after French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe said professional football cannot resume until September.</p>

<p>The French league will meet on Thursday "to analyse the sporting and economic consequences" of the government announcement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Assuming no more matches take place, the league must decide how to end the season. It is understood that France will not follow the lead of the Netherlands, who decided to void their season with no champion, relegation or promotion.</p>

<p>Final placings could be attributed based on the standings as they are, or using an average of points per game.</p>

<p>Sports daily L'Equipe calculates that the top two divisions could now miss out on 243 million euros ($264 million) from broadcasters Canal Plus and beIN Sports, plus 35 million euros for international rights. That is on top of lost gate receipts and sponsorship.</p>

<h2>ELSEWHERE</h2>

<p>The Dutch FA put an end to the season last week, as the Eredivisie became the first top European league called off due to the health crisis. No title will be awarded and there will be no relegation or promotion.</p>

<p>The Belgian Pro League is expected to take a similar decision next week, confirming the season over with Club Brugge in line to be declared champions with 11 games unplayed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The fate of the Scottish Premiership is up in the air. A controversial vote ended the seasons in the lower three divisions but there are hopes the top flight could restart behind closed doors if given government approval.</p>


Football leagues across Europe have been suspended since March due to the coronavirus pandemic which has claimed over 130,000 lives throughout the continent. Lockdown restrictions are in effect worldwide although some countries are cautiously beginning to ease stay-at-home orders.

Football leagues across Europe have been suspended since March due to the coronavirus pandemic which has claimed over 130,000 lives throughout the continent. Lockdown restrictions are in effect worldwide although some countries are cautiously beginning to ease stay-at-home orders. AFP Sport looks at what we know about the plans for Europe's top leagues: ENGLAND Premier League chiefs are targeting a return in June and several clubs have reopened their training grounds this week as they work on "Project Restart". The English top flight is understood to be aiming to run a huge testing operation to keep footballers safe, with reports of 26,000 tests being lined up for players and staff. Teams could reportedly return to full training mid-May and resume matches on June 8, with the plans to be discussed at a meeting of stakeholders on Friday. The clubs remain committed to ending the 2019-20 campaign and there are compelling financial and legal reasons to play the remaining 92 games. A failure to finish the season is forecast to cost Premier League clubs an estimated £1 billion ($1.2 billion). Matches would almost certainly be played behind closed doors and clubs have reportedly been told that only approved stadiums could be used, with higher health certification than normal. However, the Professional Footballers' Association have raised the issue of players not wanting to be put at risk by returning too soon. SPAIN La Liga players will be able to restart basic training from May 4, based on the Spanish government's plans announced Tuesday to transition out of a strict virus lockdown. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said the decision was the first move in lifting lockdown measures which will be done in four stages across two months. Only in later stages of the process will full training sessions be able to take place. League president Javier Tebas is hopeful the league can begin again in mid-June. He has said "it is not an option" to cancel the season given the economic fallout, estimating it would cost clubs around a billion euros. "I do not understand why there would more danger in playing football behind closed doors, with all precautionary measures" than any other line of work, Tebas said. "In Spain, football is an important economic driver that we need to reactivate like many others. We continue to focus on this reactivation, in a responsible manner and adhering to health recommendations, as soon as possible." ITALY Italy's sports minister Vincenzo Spadafora has warned Serie A could be called off, with the league facing "an increasingly narrow path" for its resumption. The government has allowed individual athletes to resume training next week but team sports, including football, must wait until at least May 18. The move was slammed by Italy's footballers' union "as discriminatory and even illogical". All 20 top-flight clubs have voted unanimously to complete the league season, but the final decision rests with the government. An emergency meeting of the clubs will be held on Friday. Spadafora suggested "the majority could ask us to suspend this season and prepare for the next championship as best possible". Italian football chiefs have already pushed back the end of the Serie A season from June 30 to August 2. The goal of a return to competition in early June has become impracticable, shifting the date towards June 10-14. Another solution being touted would be a play-off to allocate the Scudetto and qualifying places for European competition and determine relegation. GERMANY The Bundesliga could resume by "the middle or end of May" according to the country's sports ministers, although it still requires the green light from Angela Merkel's government. Chancellor Merkel will meet state leaders in Berlin on Thursday, when it is hoped the league will be granted permission to resume play from May 16. Clubs returned to training at the start of the month while adhering to social distancing guidelines and games would be played behind closed doors, with large-scale public events banned in Germany until August 31. Borussia Dortmund chief executive Hans-Joachim Watzke warned last weekend that "the entire Bundesliga will go down" unless the league restarts. Germany's top clubs are desperate for the league season to be completed by June 30 in order to claim an instalment of television money worth 300 million euros ($325 million). A primary sticking point is the testing of players, which critics claim will be an extra burden on Germany's health system. FRANCE The Ligue 1 season appears to be over after French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe said professional football cannot resume until September. The French league will meet on Thursday "to analyse the sporting and economic consequences" of the government announcement. Assuming no more matches take place, the league must decide how to end the season. It is understood that France will not follow the lead of the Netherlands, who decided to void their season with no champion, relegation or promotion. Final placings could be attributed based on the standings as they are, or using an average of points per game. Sports daily L'Equipe calculates that the top two divisions could now miss out on 243 million euros ($264 million) from broadcasters Canal Plus and beIN Sports, plus 35 million euros for international rights. That is on top of lost gate receipts and sponsorship. ELSEWHERE The Dutch FA put an end to the season last week, as the Eredivisie became the first top European league called off due to the health crisis. No title will be awarded and there will be no relegation or promotion. The Belgian Pro League is expected to take a similar decision next week, confirming the season over with Club Brugge in line to be declared champions with 11 games unplayed. The fate of the Scottish Premiership is up in the air. A controversial vote ended the seasons in the lower three divisions but there are hopes the top flight could restart behind closed doors if given government approval.

League-by-league guide to European football's coronavirus shutdown

<p>The year 2020 couldn’t get worse as entire India on Thursday mourned the death of Bollywood legend Rishi Kapoor, who breathed his last the Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital in Mumbai with his wife, Neetu Kapoor by his side after a two-year battle with leukaemia. While the social media platforms were bombarded with tribute messages while expressing heartfelt condolences after the news of the veteran actor’s demise shocked everyone. Sporting fraternity paid their rich tributes to Rishi, who has acted in some of the all-time classics such 'Mera Naam Joker' 'Prem Rog', 'Sagar’, 'Amar Akbar Anthony' among many others.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“This is unreal and unbelievable. Yesterday Irrfan Khan and today Rishi Kapoor ji. It’s hard to accept this as a legend passes away today. My condolences to the family and may his soul rest in peace,” Indian cricket team’s skipper Virat Kohli wrote on Twitter.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood-actor-rishi-kapoor-passes-away-295707" hreflang="en">Bollywood actor Rishi Kapoor passes away</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This is unreal and unbelievable. Yesterday Irrfan Khan and today Rishi Kapoor ji. It's hard to accept this as a legend passes away today. My condolences to the family and may his soul rest in peace</p>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1255722255411228677?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Apart from Kohli, India head coach Ravi Shastri and flamboyant opener Shikhar Dhawan also took to Twitter to express their condolences. “Shocking to say the least. Never a dull moment with #RishiKapoor around. A laugh a minute. My prayers and thoughts are with Neetu ji, Ranbir and Riddhima. God bless his soul,” Shastri wrote on Twitter.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Shocking to say the least. Never a dull moment with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RishiKapoor?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RishiKapoor</a> around. A laugh a minute.<br />
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My prayers and thoughts are with Neetu ji, Ranbir and Riddhima. God bless his soul <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RIPLegend?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RIPLegend</a> <a href="https://t.co/e6jVOW5Pez">pic.twitter.com/e6jVOW5Pez</a></p>
— Ravi Shastri (@RaviShastriOfc) <a href="https://twitter.com/RaviShastriOfc/status/1255730709521670150?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">It's shocking to hear about the sudden demise of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RishiKapoor?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RishiKapoor</a> ji. My heartfelt condolences to his family and friends. May his soul rest in peace <a href="https://t.co/pAfOGhdzm0">pic.twitter.com/pAfOGhdzm0</a></p>
— Shikhar Dhawan (@SDhawan25) <a href="https://twitter.com/SDhawan25/status/1255719103878365185?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Such was Rishi’s calibre that tributes from all over the world poured in with Pakistan pace legend Waqar Younis also expressing his shock over the actor’s death.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/respect-the-laws-that-are-in-force-rishi-kapoors-family-appeal-to-fans-to-not-gather-in-large-numbers-amid-lockdown-295737" hreflang="en">'Respect the laws that are in force': Rishi Kapoor's family appeal to fans to not gather in large numbers amid lockdown</a></strong></p>

<p>“Heart Broken. Terrible week for the World cinema. An era ends with your demise but you will stay in our Hearts forever. My deepest condolences to the Kapoor family,” Younis wrote.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Heart Broken . Terrible week for the World cinema. An era ends with your demise but you will stay in our Hearts forever. My deepest condolences to the Kapoor family.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RIP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RIP</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Legend?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Legend</a> <a href="https://t.co/wVLxqD5INW">pic.twitter.com/wVLxqD5INW</a></p>
— Waqar Younis (@waqyounis99) <a href="https://twitter.com/waqyounis99/status/1255727024997412864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>“#RishiKapoor childhood hero...gone..heartfelt condolences to his family and friends,” Kumble added.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RishiKapoor?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RishiKapoor</a> childhood hero...gone..heartfelt condolences to his family and friends.</p>
— Anil Kumble (@anilkumble1074) <a href="https://twitter.com/anilkumble1074/status/1255714132541599744?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Shocking to hear the news of sudden demise of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rishi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rishi</a> Kapoor ji. One of my all-time favourite while growing up. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/riprishikapoor?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#riprishikapoor</a> Sir. <a href="https://t.co/iR1dTV5PCq">pic.twitter.com/iR1dTV5PCq</a></p>
— R P Singh रुद्र प्रताप सिंह (@rpsingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/rpsingh/status/1255731728603246592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>After breaking into the Bollywood with ‘Mera Naam Joker’, Rishi took the cinema world by storm with his iconic movie ‘Bobby’ also starring Dimple Kapadia. He received the Filmfare Best Actor Award in 1974 for the film.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">सिनेमा जगत के वरिष्ठ अभिनेता ऋषि कपूर जी का जाना बहुत आहत कर रहा हैं। ईश्वर से प्रार्थना करता हूँ कि दिवंगत आत्मा को शांति प्रदान करे और उनके परिवार को संभल प्रदान करे।<br />
ॐ शांति <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RishiKapoor?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RishiKapoor</a> <a href="https://t.co/3QglerzwzQ">pic.twitter.com/3QglerzwzQ</a></p>
— Yogeshwar Dutt (@DuttYogi) <a href="https://twitter.com/DuttYogi/status/1255715117632761856?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Two legends of their art gone too soon. Deepest condolences to their families, friends and followers! RIP <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RishiKapoor?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RishiKapoor</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IrrfanKhan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IrrfanKhan</a> <a href="https://t.co/FaiCC4legW">pic.twitter.com/FaiCC4legW</a></p>
— Shiva Keshavan, OLY (@100thofasec) <a href="https://twitter.com/100thofasec/status/1255720144979943425?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rishi was Bollywood’s first chocolate boy and went on to play romantic leads in movies between 1973 and 2000. He was awarded the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award in 2008. &nbsp;Rishi is survived by his wife Neetu Kapoor and children--daughter Riddhima and son Ranbir, who is also a popular actor.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


The year 2020 couldn’t get worse as entire India on Thursday mourned the death of Bollywood legend Rishi Kapoor, who breathed his last the Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital in Mumbai with his wife, Neetu Kapoor by his side after a two-year battle with leukaemia.

The year 2020 couldn’t get worse as entire India on Thursday mourned the death of Bollywood legend Rishi Kapoor, who breathed his last the Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital in Mumbai with his wife, Neetu Kapoor by his side after a two-year battle with leukaemia. While the social media platforms were bombarded with tribute messages while expressing heartfelt condolences after the news of the veteran actor’s demise shocked everyone. Sporting fraternity paid their rich tributes to Rishi, who has acted in some of the all-time classics such 'Mera Naam Joker' 'Prem Rog', 'Sagar’, 'Amar Akbar Anthony' among many others. “This is unreal and unbelievable. Yesterday Irrfan Khan and today Rishi Kapoor ji. It’s hard to accept this as a legend passes away today. My condolences to the family and may his soul rest in peace,” Indian cricket team’s skipper Virat Kohli wrote on Twitter. ALSO READ: Bollywood actor Rishi Kapoor passes away This is unreal and unbelievable. Yesterday Irrfan Khan and today Rishi Kapoor ji. It's hard to accept this as a legend passes away today. My condolences to the family and may his soul rest in peace — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) April 30, 2020 × Apart from Kohli, India head coach Ravi Shastri and flamboyant opener Shikhar Dhawan also took to Twitter to express their condolences. “Shocking to say the least. Never a dull moment with #RishiKapoor around. A laugh a minute. My prayers and thoughts are with Neetu ji, Ranbir and Riddhima. God bless his soul,” Shastri wrote on Twitter. Shocking to say the least. Never a dull moment with #RishiKapoor around. A laugh a minute. My prayers and thoughts are with Neetu ji, Ranbir and Riddhima. God bless his soul #RIPLegend pic.twitter.com/e6jVOW5Pez — Ravi Shastri (@RaviShastriOfc) April 30, 2020 × It's shocking to hear about the sudden demise of #RishiKapoor ji. My heartfelt condolences to his family and friends. May his soul rest in peace pic.twitter.com/pAfOGhdzm0 — Shikhar Dhawan (@SDhawan25) April 30, 2020 × Such was Rishi’s calibre that tributes from all over the world poured in with Pakistan pace legend Waqar Younis also expressing his shock over the actor’s death. ALSO READ: 'Respect the laws that are in force': Rishi Kapoor's family appeal to fans to not gather in large numbers amid lockdown “Heart Broken. Terrible week for the World cinema. An era ends with your demise but you will stay in our Hearts forever. My deepest condolences to the Kapoor family,” Younis wrote. Heart Broken . Terrible week for the World cinema. An era ends with your demise but you will stay in our Hearts forever. My deepest condolences to the Kapoor family.#RIP #Legend pic.twitter.com/wVLxqD5INW — Waqar Younis (@waqyounis99) April 30, 2020 × “#RishiKapoor childhood hero...gone..heartfelt condolences to his family and friends,” Kumble added. #RishiKapoor childhood hero...gone..heartfelt condolences to his family and friends. — Anil Kumble (@anilkumble1074) April 30, 2020 × Shocking to hear the news of sudden demise of #Rishi Kapoor ji. One of my all-time favourite while growing up. #riprishikapoor Sir. pic.twitter.com/iR1dTV5PCq — R P Singh रुद्र प्रताप सिंह (@rpsingh) April 30, 2020 × After breaking into the Bollywood with ‘Mera Naam Joker’, Rishi took the cinema world by storm with his iconic movie ‘Bobby’ also starring Dimple Kapadia. He received the Filmfare Best Actor Award in 1974 for the film. सिनेमा जगत के वरिष्ठ अभिनेता ऋषि कपूर जी का जाना बहुत आहत कर रहा हैं। ईश्वर से प्रार्थना करता हूँ कि दिवंगत आत्मा को शांति प्रदान करे और उनके परिवार को संभल प्रदान करे। ॐ शांति #RishiKapoor pic.twitter.com/3QglerzwzQ — Yogeshwar Dutt (@DuttYogi) April 30, 2020 × Two legends of their art gone too soon. Deepest condolences to their families, friends and followers! RIP #RishiKapoor #IrrfanKhan pic.twitter.com/FaiCC4legW — Shiva Keshavan, OLY (@100thofasec) April 30, 2020 × Rishi was Bollywood’s first chocolate boy and went on to play romantic leads in movies between 1973 and 2000. He was awarded the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award in 2008. Rishi is survived by his wife Neetu Kapoor and children--daughter Riddhima and son Ranbir, who is also a popular actor.

'End of an era' - From Virat Kohli to Waqar Younis, sports fraternity pay rich tribute to Bollywood legend Rishi Kapoor

<p>A Swiss court on Tuesday scheduled a September trial date for Paris Saint-Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi and FIFA's former secretary general Jerome Valcke, in an alleged corruption case.</p>

<p>The case, involving the pair and a third, unnamed man, relates to alleged criminal mismanagement, incitement to criminal mismanagement, falsifying documents and corruption, the Federal Criminal Court said on its website.</p>

<p>The court is based in the southeastern Swiss city of Bellinzona.</p>

<p>When filing the indictment in February, the office of Switzerland's attorney general&nbsp;(OAG) said the men faced charges linked "with the award of media rights to various World Cup and FIFA Confederations Cup tournaments."</p>

<p>After the date was set on Tuesday, Al-Khelaifi's lawyers issued a statement insisting the case was "completely unfounded", and said the allegation against their client was "manifestly artificial."</p>

<p>They also indicated that they had requested the recusal of the prosecutors in the case and had filed a criminal complaint related to leaks, "making it uncertain whether the case will proceed at all."</p>

<p>Al-Khelaifi, who is also the boss of Qatari television channel BeIN Sports, had been suspected of giving inappropriate gifts to Valcke, formerly ex-FIFA boss Sepp Blatter's right-hand man, in order to secure broadcast rights to prestigious events, including the World Cup.</p>

<p>But in February, the OAG said it dropped "a criminal complaint of bribery" against Al-Khelaifi linked to the award of media rights for World Cup tournaments in 2026 and 2030 and other events, after FIFA withdrew the complaint it was based on, following an "amicable agreement" with Al-Khelaifi.</p>

<p>Prosecutors however accused him of inciting the non-reporting of a gift.</p>

<p>The indictment in February also accused the third man, described as "a businessman in the sports rights sector", of bribery over a 1.25-million-euro ($1.35 million) payment to Valcke's company Sportunited LLC.</p>

<p>Valcke meanwhile stands accused of exploiting his position at FIFA between 2013 and 2015 to influence the award of media rights for Italy and Greece for various World Cup and other tournaments scheduled between 2018 and 2030 "in order to favour media partners that he preferred," in exchange for the payments from the unnamed businessman, according to that indictment.</p>

<p>He has also been charged with falsifying documents, after Sportsunited's balance sheet listed those payments as loans.</p>

<p>Switzerland's judiciary last week rejected a request from Al-Khelaifi for three federal prosecutors in the case to be recused, over claims that during a hearing on December 6, 2019, he had not been given enough time to address all of the aspects of the case he deemed were necessary.</p>

<p>Valcke, who worked with Blatter from 2003 to 2015, has already been banned from football for 10 years for failing to cooperate with investigators over the resale of World Cup tickets and inflated expenses.</p>


A Swiss court on Tuesday scheduled a September trial date for Paris Saint-Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi and FIFA's former secretary general Jerome Valcke, in an alleged corruption case.

A Swiss court on Tuesday scheduled a September trial date for Paris Saint-Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi and FIFA's former secretary general Jerome Valcke, in an alleged corruption case. The case, involving the pair and a third, unnamed man, relates to alleged criminal mismanagement, incitement to criminal mismanagement, falsifying documents and corruption, the Federal Criminal Court said on its website. The court is based in the southeastern Swiss city of Bellinzona. When filing the indictment in February, the office of Switzerland's attorney general (OAG) said the men faced charges linked "with the award of media rights to various World Cup and FIFA Confederations Cup tournaments." After the date was set on Tuesday, Al-Khelaifi's lawyers issued a statement insisting the case was "completely unfounded", and said the allegation against their client was "manifestly artificial." They also indicated that they had requested the recusal of the prosecutors in the case and had filed a criminal complaint related to leaks, "making it uncertain whether the case will proceed at all." Al-Khelaifi, who is also the boss of Qatari television channel BeIN Sports, had been suspected of giving inappropriate gifts to Valcke, formerly ex-FIFA boss Sepp Blatter's right-hand man, in order to secure broadcast rights to prestigious events, including the World Cup. But in February, the OAG said it dropped "a criminal complaint of bribery" against Al-Khelaifi linked to the award of media rights for World Cup tournaments in 2026 and 2030 and other events, after FIFA withdrew the complaint it was based on, following an "amicable agreement" with Al-Khelaifi. Prosecutors however accused him of inciting the non-reporting of a gift. The indictment in February also accused the third man, described as "a businessman in the sports rights sector", of bribery over a 1.25-million-euro ($1.35 million) payment to Valcke's company Sportunited LLC. Valcke meanwhile stands accused of exploiting his position at FIFA between 2013 and 2015 to influence the award of media rights for Italy and Greece for various World Cup and other tournaments scheduled between 2018 and 2030 "in order to favour media partners that he preferred," in exchange for the payments from the unnamed businessman, according to that indictment. He has also been charged with falsifying documents, after Sportsunited's balance sheet listed those payments as loans. Switzerland's judiciary last week rejected a request from Al-Khelaifi for three federal prosecutors in the case to be recused, over claims that during a hearing on December 6, 2019, he had not been given enough time to address all of the aspects of the case he deemed were necessary. Valcke, who worked with Blatter from 2003 to 2015, has already been banned from football for 10 years for failing to cooperate with investigators over the resale of World Cup tickets and inflated expenses.

Swiss set trial date for PSG chief, ex-FIFA no.2

<p>Veteran batsman David Warner believes Australia's upcoming limited-overs tour of England will be scrapped because of the coronavirus pandemic.</p>

<p>The Australians were scheduled to play three one-dayers and three Twenty20 matches against England in July, although changes to the English country cricket season now make that impossible.</p>

<p>There was speculation the tour could be delayed until September but Warner was doubtful it would go ahead.</p>

<p>"At the moment it's highly unlikely we're going to go over there given what's happened in England," Warner told cricket.com.au.</p>

<p>He said British Prime Minister Boris Johnson's infection with COVID-19 showed the gravity of the problem in the host nation.</p>

<p>"He's back up on his feet now and that's fantastic news, but there's a lot more to this than just sport being played," Warner added.</p>

<p>Australia have already cancelled a two-Test tour of Bangladesh in June, and a limited-overs home series against Zimbabwe is also in doubt.</p>

<p>Australia are due to host the Twenty20 World Cup in October-November, for which the International Cricket Council has said it is "exploring all options".</p>

<p>Cricket Australia is particularly keen to go ahead with a Test series against India due to be played after the T20 tournament, warning this month it could lose hundreds of millions of dollars if it was scrapped.</p>


Veteran batsman David Warner believes Australia's upcoming limited-overs tour of England will be scrapped because of the coronavirus pandemic. The Australians were scheduled to play three one-dayers and three Twenty20 matches against England in July, although changes to the English country cricket season now make that impossible.

Veteran batsman David Warner believes Australia's upcoming limited-overs tour of England will be scrapped because of the coronavirus pandemic. The Australians were scheduled to play three one-dayers and three Twenty20 matches against England in July, although changes to the English country cricket season now make that impossible. There was speculation the tour could be delayed until September but Warner was doubtful it would go ahead. "At the moment it's highly unlikely we're going to go over there given what's happened in England," Warner told cricket.com.au. He said British Prime Minister Boris Johnson's infection with COVID-19 showed the gravity of the problem in the host nation. "He's back up on his feet now and that's fantastic news, but there's a lot more to this than just sport being played," Warner added. Australia have already cancelled a two-Test tour of Bangladesh in June, and a limited-overs home series against Zimbabwe is also in doubt. Australia are due to host the Twenty20 World Cup in October-November, for which the International Cricket Council has said it is "exploring all options". Cricket Australia is particularly keen to go ahead with a Test series against India due to be played after the T20 tournament, warning this month it could lose hundreds of millions of dollars if it was scrapped.

Australia's Warner says England tour 'highly unlikely'

<p>Italian Sports Minister Vincenzo Spadafora on Wednesday said that Serie A, country’s top-flight football league, is unlikely to resume this season due to COVID-19 pandemic. On March 9, Italy had suspended Serie A as a part of strict lockdown phase to curb the spread of COVID-19 that has seen over 200,000 confirmed cases with more than 27,000 deaths in the country, the second-highest tally in the entire world after the United States.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Spadafora said that if he was one of the presidents of Serie A clubs then he would be focusing on the next season rather than spending time thinking about the halted campaign.</p>

<p>"I see an increasingly narrow path for the resumption of the Serie A... If I were one of the presidents (of the clubs) I would focus on the next season," Spadafora told an Italian broadcaster.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/how-many-have-to-die-gary-neville-voices-fears-over-premier-league-plans-295599" hreflang="en">'How many have to die?': Gary Neville voices fears over Premier League plans</a></strong></p>

<p>The Netherlands and France are two European countries to have ended their football campaigns due to the coronavirus pandemic, whereas, the Premier League, German Bundesliga and Serie A are among those who want to finish the 2019/20 season.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"These decisions (in France and in the Netherlands) could push Italy to follow this line, which would become a European line," Spadafora said while adding that he thought a majority of Serie A clubs may soon ask to cancel the league.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte had earlier announced that lockdown will be eased from May 4 with sports team given the allowance to train from May 18.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mauricio-pochettino-newcastle-uniteds-top-target-to-take-over-managerial-duties-295589" hreflang="en">Mauricio Pochettino Newcastle United's top target to take over managerial duties</a></strong></p>

<p>While the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) has chalked out a medical protocol for training, Spadafora has clarified that government’s scientific experts didn't deem it sufficient.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If the championship should ever resume, it will certainly be behind closed doors," Spadafora said.</p>

<p>As of now, there are 12 more rounds of matches to be played in Serie A with a number of games from incompleted rounds. As things stand, Juventus are one point clear of Lazio at the top of the table.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Italian Sports Minister Vincenzo Spadafora on Wednesday said that Serie A, country’s top-flight football league, is unlikely to resume this season due to COVID-19 pandemic.

Italian Sports Minister Vincenzo Spadafora on Wednesday said that Serie A, country’s top-flight football league, is unlikely to resume this season due to COVID-19 pandemic. On March 9, Italy had suspended Serie A as a part of strict lockdown phase to curb the spread of COVID-19 that has seen over 200,000 confirmed cases with more than 27,000 deaths in the country, the second-highest tally in the entire world after the United States. Spadafora said that if he was one of the presidents of Serie A clubs then he would be focusing on the next season rather than spending time thinking about the halted campaign. "I see an increasingly narrow path for the resumption of the Serie A... If I were one of the presidents (of the clubs) I would focus on the next season," Spadafora told an Italian broadcaster. ALSO READ: 'How many have to die?': Gary Neville voices fears over Premier League plans The Netherlands and France are two European countries to have ended their football campaigns due to the coronavirus pandemic, whereas, the Premier League, German Bundesliga and Serie A are among those who want to finish the 2019/20 season. "These decisions (in France and in the Netherlands) could push Italy to follow this line, which would become a European line," Spadafora said while adding that he thought a majority of Serie A clubs may soon ask to cancel the league. Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte had earlier announced that lockdown will be eased from May 4 with sports team given the allowance to train from May 18. ALSO READ: Mauricio Pochettino Newcastle United's top target to take over managerial duties While the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) has chalked out a medical protocol for training, Spadafora has clarified that government’s scientific experts didn't deem it sufficient. "If the championship should ever resume, it will certainly be behind closed doors," Spadafora said. As of now, there are 12 more rounds of matches to be played in Serie A with a number of games from incompleted rounds. As things stand, Juventus are one point clear of Lazio at the top of the table.

Serie A could follow Ligue 1, Eredivisie by cancelling 2019-20 season: Italy's sports minister Vincenzo Spadafora

<p>Cricket South Africa (CSA) has asked retired-cricketer AB de Villiers ‘to lead the national side once again’ with Mr. 360 contemplating a return to international cricket for the Proteas, media reports stated on Wednesday.&nbsp;However, the former South African skipper&nbsp;has rubbished such reports. De Villiers, who is regarded as one of the finest batsmen to have played the game, called it a day from international cricket in May 2018 but there has been a lot of talks surrounding his return to the national team.</p>

<p>"Reports suggesting Cricket SA have asked me to lead the Proteas are just not true. It's hard to know what to believe these days. Crazy times. Stay safe everyone," he tweeted.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Reports suggesting Cricket SA have asked me to lead the Proteas are just not true. It's hard to know what to believe these days. Crazy times. Stay safe everyone.</p>
— AB de Villiers (@ABdeVilliers17) <a href="https://twitter.com/ABdeVilliers17/status/1255480361766846464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Whereas, Graeme Smith wrote: "Sorry this is absolute <a data-focusable="true" dir="ltr" href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FakeNews?src=hashtag_click" role="link">#FakeNews"</a></p>

<p>De Villiers was rumoured to return to South African team before the ICC T20 World Cup but the COVID-19 pandemic has shattered all the plans. ABD is of the view that he wants to be better than other players waiting for a chance in the playing XI while adding that he wants to show that he is still good enough to be in the team rather than taking up a spot based on his reputation.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australias-warner-says-england-tour-highly-unlikely-295475" hreflang="en">Australia's Warner says England tour 'highly unlikely'</a></strong></p>

<p>“The desire is there from my side to play for South Africa and have been asked by Cricket South Africa to lead the Proteas again,” the 36-year-old De Villiers, who played 114 Tests, 228 ODIs and 78 T20s,was quoted as saying in several reports.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The most important thing to me is that I have got to be in top form and I have got to be better than the player next to me. If I feel I deserve my spot in the side, it becomes much easier for me to feel that I should be part of the playing XI,” he said.</p>

<p>“I have not been part of the Proteas for a while and I feel that it’s important for myself and for other people to see that I am still good enough to be there,” he added as per reports.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/there-is-no-comparison-shoaib-akthar-says-imran-nazir-was-more-talented-than-virender-sehwag-295489" hreflang="en">'There is no comparison' - Shoaib Akthar says Imran Nazir was more talented than Virender Sehwag</a></strong></p>

<p>South Africa coach Mark Boucher had earlier said that De Villiers would be considered for the national team only if he proves he is “best man for the job”.</p>

<p>“However, with the virus going around, I don’t know what’s going to happen with the schedule,” he signed off.</p>


Cricket South Africa (CSA) has asked retired-cricketer AB de Villiers ‘to lead the national side once again’ with Mr. 360 contemplating a return to international cricket for the Proteas, media reports stated on Wednesday.

Cricket South Africa (CSA) has asked retired-cricketer AB de Villiers ‘to lead the national side once again’ with Mr. 360 contemplating a return to international cricket for the Proteas, media reports stated on Wednesday. However, the former South African skipper has rubbished such reports. De Villiers, who is regarded as one of the finest batsmen to have played the game, called it a day from international cricket in May 2018 but there has been a lot of talks surrounding his return to the national team. "Reports suggesting Cricket SA have asked me to lead the Proteas are just not true. It's hard to know what to believe these days. Crazy times. Stay safe everyone," he tweeted. Reports suggesting Cricket SA have asked me to lead the Proteas are just not true. It's hard to know what to believe these days. Crazy times. Stay safe everyone. — AB de Villiers (@ABdeVilliers17) April 29, 2020 × Whereas, Graeme Smith wrote: "Sorry this is absolute #FakeNews" De Villiers was rumoured to return to South African team before the ICC T20 World Cup but the COVID-19 pandemic has shattered all the plans. ABD is of the view that he wants to be better than other players waiting for a chance in the playing XI while adding that he wants to show that he is still good enough to be in the team rather than taking up a spot based on his reputation. ALSO READ: Australia's Warner says England tour 'highly unlikely' “The desire is there from my side to play for South Africa and have been asked by Cricket South Africa to lead the Proteas again,” the 36-year-old De Villiers, who played 114 Tests, 228 ODIs and 78 T20s,was quoted as saying in several reports. “The most important thing to me is that I have got to be in top form and I have got to be better than the player next to me. If I feel I deserve my spot in the side, it becomes much easier for me to feel that I should be part of the playing XI,” he said. “I have not been part of the Proteas for a while and I feel that it’s important for myself and for other people to see that I am still good enough to be there,” he added as per reports. ALSO READ: 'There is no comparison' - Shoaib Akthar says Imran Nazir was more talented than Virender Sehwag South Africa coach Mark Boucher had earlier said that De Villiers would be considered for the national team only if he proves he is “best man for the job”. “However, with the virus going around, I don’t know what’s going to happen with the schedule,” he signed off.

AB de Villiers, Graeme Smith dismiss reports stating Mr. 360 was offered Proteas captaincy

<p>Gary Neville fears Premier League players' lives will be put at risk if football is rushed back too soon after the coronavirus-enforced lockdown in Britain.</p>

<p>Premier League chiefs are aiming for a return to action in June and several clubs opened their training grounds to players this week as they work on "Project Restart".</p>

<p>The English top flight is understood to be aiming to run a huge testing operation to keep footballers safe, with reports of 26,000 tests being lined up for players and staff.</p>

<p>But FIFA's medical chief Michel D'Hooghe said on Tuesday that football should not be played until September and former Manchester United defender Neville is worried that Premier League stars will be put in danger by the rush to return.</p>

<p>"The FIFA medical officer said that football should not take place before September. I think if it was a non-economic decision there would be no football for months," Neville told the Sky Sports Football Show on Wednesday.</p>

<p>"People are now assessing risk. How many people have to die playing football in the Premier League before it becomes unpalatable? One? One player? One member of staff goes into intensive care? What risk do we have to take? The discussion is purely economic."</p>

<p>Neville voiced his particular concerns over the risk to players with existing medical conditions.</p>

<p>"If health comes first, there is only one outcome at this moment in time. How many players have got asthma? How many players have diabetes?</p>

<p>"Have they assessed all of these things and are they willing to put those people at risk?"</p>

<p>The UK is among the worst-hit countries in the global COVID-19 pandemic, with more than 21,000 deaths so far.</p>

<p>The country is on lockdown until at least May 7, but government officials have spoken in positive terms about a potential return for football if the virus is under control.</p>

<h2>- 'No football for months' -</h2>

<p>Germany's sports ministers have said the Bundesliga could return next month but Dutch football chiefs have called an end to the Eredivisie season and the Belgian campaign is in the balance.</p>

<p>French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe said football would not return in his country until at least September.</p>

<p>In the Premier League, full training is reportedly slated for mid-May, with the plan to be discussed at a meeting of stakeholders on Friday.</p>

<p>However, Neville is concerned that the Premier League's desire to conclude the campaign is being driven by financial motives, with the English top flight facing a huge hit if the 92 remaining fixtures are not played.</p>

<p>The former England international said if it were a non-economic decision there would be no football for months but he acknowledged that players at lower levels would want to play because the alternative was "bad".</p>

<p>"(A total of) 1,400 players are out of contract in three months so they'll need football to resume so their livelihoods can continue," he said.</p>

<p>"There's huge economic loss. It clouds people's minds in terms of the risk that they're willing to take."&nbsp;</p>


Gary Neville fears Premier League players' lives will be put at risk if football is rushed back too soon after the coronavirus-enforced lockdown in Britain. Premier League chiefs are aiming for a return to action in June and several clubs opened their training grounds to players this week as they work on "Project Restart".

Gary Neville fears Premier League players' lives will be put at risk if football is rushed back too soon after the coronavirus-enforced lockdown in Britain. Premier League chiefs are aiming for a return to action in June and several clubs opened their training grounds to players this week as they work on "Project Restart". The English top flight is understood to be aiming to run a huge testing operation to keep footballers safe, with reports of 26,000 tests being lined up for players and staff. But FIFA's medical chief Michel D'Hooghe said on Tuesday that football should not be played until September and former Manchester United defender Neville is worried that Premier League stars will be put in danger by the rush to return. "The FIFA medical officer said that football should not take place before September. I think if it was a non-economic decision there would be no football for months," Neville told the Sky Sports Football Show on Wednesday. "People are now assessing risk. How many people have to die playing football in the Premier League before it becomes unpalatable? One? One player? One member of staff goes into intensive care? What risk do we have to take? The discussion is purely economic." Neville voiced his particular concerns over the risk to players with existing medical conditions. "If health comes first, there is only one outcome at this moment in time. How many players have got asthma? How many players have diabetes? "Have they assessed all of these things and are they willing to put those people at risk?" The UK is among the worst-hit countries in the global COVID-19 pandemic, with more than 21,000 deaths so far. The country is on lockdown until at least May 7, but government officials have spoken in positive terms about a potential return for football if the virus is under control. - 'No football for months' - Germany's sports ministers have said the Bundesliga could return next month but Dutch football chiefs have called an end to the Eredivisie season and the Belgian campaign is in the balance. French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe said football would not return in his country until at least September. In the Premier League, full training is reportedly slated for mid-May, with the plan to be discussed at a meeting of stakeholders on Friday. However, Neville is concerned that the Premier League's desire to conclude the campaign is being driven by financial motives, with the English top flight facing a huge hit if the 92 remaining fixtures are not played. The former England international said if it were a non-economic decision there would be no football for months but he acknowledged that players at lower levels would want to play because the alternative was "bad". "(A total of) 1,400 players are out of contract in three months so they'll need football to resume so their livelihoods can continue," he said. "There's huge economic loss. It clouds people's minds in terms of the risk that they're willing to take."

'How many have to die?': Gary Neville voices fears over Premier League plans

<p>Former Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino is Newcastle United’s prospective new owners’ first choice to take over the charge at St James’s Park next season. The Saudi-backed consortium is willing to pay him a whopping £19m a year to take charge of the club, which will make Pocchettino the second-highest paid manager in the Premier League behind Manchester City’s Pep Guardiola.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pochettino who lost his job at Tottenham Hostpur in November 2019 is keen on a return to Premier League and reportedly, is interested in the project. Current Newcastle United manager Steve Bruce will continue the charge until the end of the current season.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-super-bowl-winner-to-medical-doctor-laurent-duvernay-tardif-joins-coronavirus-frontline-295525" hreflang="en">From Super Bowl winner to medical doctor! Laurent Duvernay-Tardif joins coronavirus frontline</a></strong></p>

<p>No final decision on the matter is expected before Premier League’s decision to allow the £300m takeover Newcastle United Saudi-backed consortium from Mike Ashley.</p>

<p>Reportedly, Newcastle’s prospective owners have been left impressed by Pochettino’s previous work with Tottenham Hotspur and Southampton. They reckon Pochettino will be the perfect man to convert Newcastle United into one of Europe’s top clubs in the next five years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Second on the wish list it, former Newcastle manager Rafael Benitez, who is currently managing China’s Dalian Yifang with a £12m-a-year after tax contract in China.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/swiss-set-trial-date-for-psg-chief-ex-fifa-no2-295476" hreflang="en">Swiss set trial date for PSG chief, ex-FIFA no.2</a></strong></p>

<p>Interestingly, Pochettino and his backroom staff continue to being paid his £8.5m a year (gross) wages by Tottenham Hotspur despite getting sacked in November, as per reports.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, there have been calls for the British government to block the Saudi-backed consortium’s £300m takeover of Newcastle United.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Former Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino is Newcastle United’s prospective new owners’ first choice to take over the charge at St James’s Park next season.

Former Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino is Newcastle United’s prospective new owners’ first choice to take over the charge at St James’s Park next season. The Saudi-backed consortium is willing to pay him a whopping £19m a year to take charge of the club, which will make Pocchettino the second-highest paid manager in the Premier League behind Manchester City’s Pep Guardiola. Pochettino who lost his job at Tottenham Hostpur in November 2019 is keen on a return to Premier League and reportedly, is interested in the project. Current Newcastle United manager Steve Bruce will continue the charge until the end of the current season. ALSO READ: From Super Bowl winner to medical doctor! Laurent Duvernay-Tardif joins coronavirus frontline No final decision on the matter is expected before Premier League’s decision to allow the £300m takeover Newcastle United Saudi-backed consortium from Mike Ashley. Reportedly, Newcastle’s prospective owners have been left impressed by Pochettino’s previous work with Tottenham Hotspur and Southampton. They reckon Pochettino will be the perfect man to convert Newcastle United into one of Europe’s top clubs in the next five years. Second on the wish list it, former Newcastle manager Rafael Benitez, who is currently managing China’s Dalian Yifang with a £12m-a-year after tax contract in China. ALSO READ: Swiss set trial date for PSG chief, ex-FIFA no.2 Interestingly, Pochettino and his backroom staff continue to being paid his £8.5m a year (gross) wages by Tottenham Hotspur despite getting sacked in November, as per reports. Meanwhile, there have been calls for the British government to block the Saudi-backed consortium’s £300m takeover of Newcastle United.

Mauricio Pochettino Newcastle United's top target to take over managerial duties

<p>One of the finest and versatile actors, Irrfan Khan, on Wednesday breathed his last at the age of 53 in Mumbai’s Kokilaben Hospital, where he was admitted on Tuesday and was being treated for a colon infection. The sudden loss of Irrfan leaves a huge void in the world of cinema as he was regarded as one of the finest gems not only in India but around the world. While many are aware of Irrfan Khan's splendid work in movies, not many know that he wanted to become a professional cricketer and it was due to lack of just Rs 600 that he failed to pursue a career out of it.&nbsp;.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Irrfan was selected for CK Nayudu Trophy – one of the coveted domestic tournaments in India – but as he didn’t have Rs 600 to pay his entry fee at that time, he decided not to pursue it further. Irrfan, in 2014, had admitted about his love for cricket while revealing his sister gave him Rs 300 to get admission in the National School of Drama.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-lost-one-of-those-rare-gems-from-tendulkar-to-sehwag-sports-fraternity-mourn-irrfan-khans-death-295509" hreflang="en">From Tendulkar to Sehwag, sports fraternity mourn Irrfan Khan's death</a></strong></p>

<p>“I played cricket. I wanted to become a cricketer. I was an all-rounder and the youngest one in my team in Jaipur. I wanted to make a career out of it. I was selected for the CK Nayudu tournament I think and then I needed money and didn’t know who to ask. That day I decided I cannot pursue it. I couldn’t have asked for Rs 600 at that time,” Irrfan had said in an interview to a leading daily in 2014.</p>

<p>“I needed Rs 300 for National School of Drama, which was difficult for me. My sister finally got it for me,” he revealed.</p>

<p>Irrfan had even compared the movie and cricket industries as the versatile actor stated that the entertainment industry provides a longer career than in cricket. Irrfan had further slammed the T20 version of cricket for spoiling the gentlemen’s game.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/top-hard-hitting-dialogues-of-the-versatile-actor-irrfan-khan-295484">Top hard-hitting dialogues of the versatile actor Irrfan Khan</a></strong></p>

<p>“Giving up cricket was a conscious decision. There are only 11 players in the whole country. Actors mein koi limit nahin hai! There is no age limit in acting… jitna mehnat karoge....You yourself are your own weapon,” he said.</p>

<p>“Cricket ka down hona bhi chahiye! It is a waste of time. Compared to the charm and the drama of a Test match…this T20… it is raping the game. All kinds of goof-ups are happening,” he had said back in 2014.</p>

<p>Irrfan had taken a break from acting in 2018 when he was first diagnosed with neuroendocrine tumour. He returned to India in 2019 to work in 'Angrezi Medium' which released earlier this year. Irrfan is survived by his wife Sutapa Sikdar, and two sons Babil and Ayan.</p>


One of the finest and versatile actors, Irrfan Khan, on Wednesday breathed his last at the age of 53 in Mumbai’s Kokilaben Hospital, where he was admitted on Tuesday and was being treated for a colon infection.

One of the finest and versatile actors, Irrfan Khan, on Wednesday breathed his last at the age of 53 in Mumbai’s Kokilaben Hospital, where he was admitted on Tuesday and was being treated for a colon infection. The sudden loss of Irrfan leaves a huge void in the world of cinema as he was regarded as one of the finest gems not only in India but around the world. While many are aware of Irrfan Khan's splendid work in movies, not many know that he wanted to become a professional cricketer and it was due to lack of just Rs 600 that he failed to pursue a career out of it. . Irrfan was selected for CK Nayudu Trophy – one of the coveted domestic tournaments in India – but as he didn’t have Rs 600 to pay his entry fee at that time, he decided not to pursue it further. Irrfan, in 2014, had admitted about his love for cricket while revealing his sister gave him Rs 300 to get admission in the National School of Drama. ALSO READ: From Tendulkar to Sehwag, sports fraternity mourn Irrfan Khan's death “I played cricket. I wanted to become a cricketer. I was an all-rounder and the youngest one in my team in Jaipur. I wanted to make a career out of it. I was selected for the CK Nayudu tournament I think and then I needed money and didn’t know who to ask. That day I decided I cannot pursue it. I couldn’t have asked for Rs 600 at that time,” Irrfan had said in an interview to a leading daily in 2014. “I needed Rs 300 for National School of Drama, which was difficult for me. My sister finally got it for me,” he revealed. Irrfan had even compared the movie and cricket industries as the versatile actor stated that the entertainment industry provides a longer career than in cricket. Irrfan had further slammed the T20 version of cricket for spoiling the gentlemen’s game. ALSO READ: Top hard-hitting dialogues of the versatile actor Irrfan Khan “Giving up cricket was a conscious decision. There are only 11 players in the whole country. Actors mein koi limit nahin hai! There is no age limit in acting… jitna mehnat karoge....You yourself are your own weapon,” he said. “Cricket ka down hona bhi chahiye! It is a waste of time. Compared to the charm and the drama of a Test match…this T20… it is raping the game. All kinds of goof-ups are happening,” he had said back in 2014. Irrfan had taken a break from acting in 2018 when he was first diagnosed with neuroendocrine tumour. He returned to India in 2019 to work in 'Angrezi Medium' which released earlier this year. Irrfan is survived by his wife Sutapa Sikdar, and two sons Babil and Ayan.

'I was an all-rounder' - Short of Rs 600, how Irrfan Khan gave up cricket to pursue acting

<p>The world of cinema lost one of its truest gems in Irrfan Khan on Wednesday as the 53-year-old lost his battle to cancer in Mumbai’s Kokilaben Hospital after getting admitted on Tuesday. Irrfan was reportedly admitted in the ICU due to a colon infection. As soon as the devastating news was broken on Wednesday noon, social media erupted as people paid tribute to Irrfan and his glorious career.&nbsp;</p>

<p>From the sports fraternity, the likes of Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag, Ravichandran Ashwin, Suresh Raina, Gautam Gambhir, Anil Kumble, Mohammed Kaif, Indian Football Team, Vijender Singh, among others, paid tribute to Irrfan following the news of his demise. &nbsp;</p>

<p>“Sad to hear the news of #IrrfanKhan passing away. He was one of my favorites &amp; I’ve watched almost all his films, the last one being Angrezi Medium. Acting came so effortlessly to him, he was just terrific. May his soul Rest In Peace. Condolences to his loved ones,” Tendulkar tweeted.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/irrfan-khan-dies-at-the-age-of-53-295471" hreflang="en">Irrfan Khan dies at the age of 53</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Sad to hear the news of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IrrfanKhan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IrrfanKhan</a> passing away. He was one of my favorites &amp; I’ve watched almost all his films, the last one being Angrezi Medium. Acting came so effortlessly to him, he was just terrific.<br />
May his soul Rest In Peace.<br />
Condolences to his loved ones. <a href="https://t.co/gaLHCTSbUh">pic.twitter.com/gaLHCTSbUh</a></p>
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1255404240975073280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Extremely saddened to hear about the demise of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IrfanKhan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IrfanKhan</a>. He was truly an actor with immense talent &amp; high caliber. He will be missed badly. My heartfelt condolences to the family. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ripirfankhan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ripirfankhan</a> <a href="https://t.co/kXe7FfNvuP">pic.twitter.com/kXe7FfNvuP</a></p>
— Suresh Raina (@ImRaina) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRaina/status/1255393260408840192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>“RIP #IrrfanKhan,” Ashwin added. Former India cricketer and current BJP MP Gautam Gambhir also expressed his condolences. “There are actors who have the ability to move you with every performance, irrespective of role or medium! Irrfan Khan was one of those rare gems! Indispensable. He went too soon! RIP,” he wrote.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/top-hard-hitting-dialogues-of-the-versatile-actor-irrfan-khan-295484">Top hard-hitting dialogues of the versatile actor Irrfan Khan</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="und">RIP <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IrrfanKhan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IrrfanKhan</a></p>
— lets stay indoors India (@ashwinravi99) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99/status/1255385400711012353?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">There are actors who have the ability to move you with every performance, irrespective of role or medium! Irrfan Khan was one of those rare gems! Indispensable. He went too soon! RIP!</p>
— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) <a href="https://twitter.com/GautamGambhir/status/1255398110806802433?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Indian Football Team further posted a heartwarming tribute. “We mourn the untimely loss of #IrrfanKhan, who touched one and all with his beautiful performances on screen. RIP.”&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">We mourn the untimely loss of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IrrfanKhan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IrrfanKhan</a>, who touched one and all with his beautiful performances on screen. RIP <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RestInPeace?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RestInPeace</a> <a href="https://t.co/FmZ8ilFZ5O">pic.twitter.com/FmZ8ilFZ5O</a></p>
— Indian Football Team (@IndianFootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndianFootball/status/1255399083692494849?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Extremely sad to hear the demise of a versatile and talented actor <a href="https://twitter.com/irrfank?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@irrfank</a>. Thank you for entertaining us and giving us such powerful performance. My deepest condolences to his family - RIP</p>
— Manpreet Singh (@manpreetpawar07) <a href="https://twitter.com/manpreetpawar07/status/1255395000306843651?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A great actor and a great talent. Heartfelt<br />
Condolences to his family and well - wishers <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IrfanKhan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IrfanKhan</a></p>
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) <a href="https://twitter.com/virendersehwag/status/1255400424716238852?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Saddened to hear the passing away of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IrrfanKhan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IrrfanKhan</a>. A wonderful actor. Gone too soon. My heartfelt condolences to his family and friends.</p>
— Anil Kumble (@anilkumble1074) <a href="https://twitter.com/anilkumble1074/status/1255400746578776078?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Saddened to hear about <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IrrfanKhan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IrrfanKhan</a>’s demise. My heartfelt condolences to his family. One of my favourite actors, gone too soon. His work will live on forever. RIP, Irrfan. <a href="https://t.co/nEbbiPfEu7">pic.twitter.com/nEbbiPfEu7</a></p>
— Mohammad Kaif (@MohammadKaif) <a href="https://twitter.com/MohammadKaif/status/1255396790259589126?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>An official statement released by his family said, "I trust, I have surrendered”; These were the some of the many words that Irrfan expressed in a heartfelt note he wrote in 2018 opening up about his fight with cancer. And a man of few words and an actor of silent expressions with his deep eyes and his memorable actions on screen. It’s saddening that this day, we have to bring forward the news of him passing away.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Irrfan was a strong soul, someone who fought till the very end and always inspired everyone who came close to him. After having been struck by lightning in 2018 with the news of a rare cancer, he took life soon after as it came and he fought the many battles that came with it. Surrounded by his love, his family for whom he most cared about, he left for heaven abode, leaving behind truly a legacy of his own. We all pray and hope that he is at peace. And to resonate and part with his words he had said, “As if I was tasting life for the first time, the magical side of it”.</p>

<p>Irrfan had taken a break from acting in 2018 when he was first diagnosed with neuroendocrine tumour. He returned to India in 2019 to work in&nbsp;'Angrezi Medium' which released earlier this year. Irrfan is survived by his wife Sutapa Sikdar, and two sons Babil and Ayan.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>


The world of cinema lost one of its truest gems in Irrfan Khan on Wednesday as the 53-year-old lost his battle to cancer in Mumbai’s Kokilaben Hospital after getting admitted on Tuesday.

The world of cinema lost one of its truest gems in Irrfan Khan on Wednesday as the 53-year-old lost his battle to cancer in Mumbai’s Kokilaben Hospital after getting admitted on Tuesday. Irrfan was reportedly admitted in the ICU due to a colon infection. As soon as the devastating news was broken on Wednesday noon, social media erupted as people paid tribute to Irrfan and his glorious career. From the sports fraternity, the likes of Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag, Ravichandran Ashwin, Suresh Raina, Gautam Gambhir, Anil Kumble, Mohammed Kaif, Indian Football Team, Vijender Singh, among others, paid tribute to Irrfan following the news of his demise. “Sad to hear the news of #IrrfanKhan passing away. He was one of my favorites & I’ve watched almost all his films, the last one being Angrezi Medium. Acting came so effortlessly to him, he was just terrific. May his soul Rest In Peace. Condolences to his loved ones,” Tendulkar tweeted. ALSO READ: Irrfan Khan dies at the age of 53 Sad to hear the news of #IrrfanKhan passing away. He was one of my favorites & I’ve watched almost all his films, the last one being Angrezi Medium. Acting came so effortlessly to him, he was just terrific. May his soul Rest In Peace. Condolences to his loved ones. pic.twitter.com/gaLHCTSbUh — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) April 29, 2020 × Extremely saddened to hear about the demise of #IrfanKhan. He was truly an actor with immense talent & high caliber. He will be missed badly. My heartfelt condolences to the family. #ripirfankhan pic.twitter.com/kXe7FfNvuP — Suresh Raina (@ImRaina) April 29, 2020 × “RIP #IrrfanKhan,” Ashwin added. Former India cricketer and current BJP MP Gautam Gambhir also expressed his condolences. “There are actors who have the ability to move you with every performance, irrespective of role or medium! Irrfan Khan was one of those rare gems! Indispensable. He went too soon! RIP,” he wrote. ALSO READ: Top hard-hitting dialogues of the versatile actor Irrfan Khan RIP #IrrfanKhan — lets stay indoors India (@ashwinravi99) April 29, 2020 × There are actors who have the ability to move you with every performance, irrespective of role or medium! Irrfan Khan was one of those rare gems! Indispensable. He went too soon! RIP! — Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) April 29, 2020 × Indian Football Team further posted a heartwarming tribute. “We mourn the untimely loss of #IrrfanKhan, who touched one and all with his beautiful performances on screen. RIP.” We mourn the untimely loss of #IrrfanKhan, who touched one and all with his beautiful performances on screen. RIP #RestInPeace pic.twitter.com/FmZ8ilFZ5O — Indian Football Team (@IndianFootball) April 29, 2020 × Extremely sad to hear the demise of a versatile and talented actor @irrfank. Thank you for entertaining us and giving us such powerful performance. My deepest condolences to his family - RIP — Manpreet Singh (@manpreetpawar07) April 29, 2020 × A great actor and a great talent. Heartfelt Condolences to his family and well - wishers #IrfanKhan — Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) April 29, 2020 × Saddened to hear the passing away of #IrrfanKhan. A wonderful actor. Gone too soon. My heartfelt condolences to his family and friends. — Anil Kumble (@anilkumble1074) April 29, 2020 × Saddened to hear about #IrrfanKhan’s demise. My heartfelt condolences to his family. One of my favourite actors, gone too soon. His work will live on forever. RIP, Irrfan. pic.twitter.com/nEbbiPfEu7 — Mohammad Kaif (@MohammadKaif) April 29, 2020 × An official statement released by his family said, "I trust, I have surrendered”; These were the some of the many words that Irrfan expressed in a heartfelt note he wrote in 2018 opening up about his fight with cancer. And a man of few words and an actor of silent expressions with his deep eyes and his memorable actions on screen. It’s saddening that this day, we have to bring forward the news of him passing away. “Irrfan was a strong soul, someone who fought till the very end and always inspired everyone who came close to him. After having been struck by lightning in 2018 with the news of a rare cancer, he took life soon after as it came and he fought the many battles that came with it. Surrounded by his love, his family for whom he most cared about, he left for heaven abode, leaving behind truly a legacy of his own. We all pray and hope that he is at peace. And to resonate and part with his words he had said, “As if I was tasting life for the first time, the magical side of it”. Irrfan had taken a break from acting in 2018 when he was first diagnosed with neuroendocrine tumour. He returned to India in 2019 to work in 'Angrezi Medium' which released earlier this year. Irrfan is survived by his wife Sutapa Sikdar, and two sons Babil and Ayan.

'We lost one of those rare gems' - From Tendulkar to Sehwag, sports fraternity mourn Irrfan Khan's death

<p>Former India opener Virender Sehwag is regarded as one of the finest to have played cricket across formats. The swashbuckling right-handed batsman changed the way cricket and batting was perceived by players and fans during his playing days with his explosive style of batting. However, former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar is of the view that one Pakistani opener was way more talented than Sehwag but couldn’t fulfil his potential while blaming Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for his downfall.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Akhtar has named Imran Nazir as more talented than Nazir but added that the Pakistani batsman didn’t have the brain to capitalize on his extreme talent. Akhtar further revealed that he had asked the Pakistan team management to play Nazir regularly following but they didn’t listen to his advice. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australias-warner-says-england-tour-highly-unlikely-295475" hreflang="en">Australia's Warner says England tour 'highly unlikely'</a></strong></p>

<p>“I don’t think Imran Nazir had the brain that Sehwag had. I don’t think Sehwag had the talent that Imran Nazir had. There is no comparison with regards to talent. We tried to contain him a little. When he hit a brutal hundred against India in a match, I asked them to play Imran Nazir consistently but they didn’t listen," Akhtar was quoted as saying on a TV show by Cricket Pakistan.</p>

<p>“It is unfortunate that we do not know how to take care of our brands. We could have had a player better than Virender Sehwag in Imran Nazir. He had all the shots while also being a good fielder. We could have utilised him brilliantly but we just couldn’t,” he added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-might-not-see-any-live-sport-for-4-5-months-sunil-gavaskar-gives-his-take-on-resumption-of-sporting-action-295351" hreflang="en">'We might not see any live sport for 4-5 months' - Sunil Gavaskar gives his take on resumption of sporting action</a></strong></p>

<p>Nazir, who managed to play 8 Tests, 79 ODIs and 25 T20Is for Pakistan, amassing 427, 1895 and 500 runs in the three formats respectively, was backed by Javed Miandad a lot and Akhtar revealed how the former Pakistan skipper helped Nazir during his initial days.</p>

<p>“Whenever Imran Nazir played well, it was because of Javed Miandad. He would be in the dressing room and trying to get him to play. Whenever he played a bad shot Javed bhai would send him a message in order to keep him focused,” Akhtar said.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Former India opener Virender Sehwag is regarded as one of the finest to have played cricket across formats. The swashbuckling right-handed batsman changed the way cricket and batting was perceived by players and fans during his playing days with his explosive style of batting.

Former India opener Virender Sehwag is regarded as one of the finest to have played cricket across formats. The swashbuckling right-handed batsman changed the way cricket and batting was perceived by players and fans during his playing days with his explosive style of batting. However, former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar is of the view that one Pakistani opener was way more talented than Sehwag but couldn’t fulfil his potential while blaming Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for his downfall. Akhtar has named Imran Nazir as more talented than Nazir but added that the Pakistani batsman didn’t have the brain to capitalize on his extreme talent. Akhtar further revealed that he had asked the Pakistan team management to play Nazir regularly following but they didn’t listen to his advice. ALSO READ: Australia's Warner says England tour 'highly unlikely' “I don’t think Imran Nazir had the brain that Sehwag had. I don’t think Sehwag had the talent that Imran Nazir had. There is no comparison with regards to talent. We tried to contain him a little. When he hit a brutal hundred against India in a match, I asked them to play Imran Nazir consistently but they didn’t listen," Akhtar was quoted as saying on a TV show by Cricket Pakistan. “It is unfortunate that we do not know how to take care of our brands. We could have had a player better than Virender Sehwag in Imran Nazir. He had all the shots while also being a good fielder. We could have utilised him brilliantly but we just couldn’t,” he added. ALSO READ: 'We might not see any live sport for 4-5 months' - Sunil Gavaskar gives his take on resumption of sporting action Nazir, who managed to play 8 Tests, 79 ODIs and 25 T20Is for Pakistan, amassing 427, 1895 and 500 runs in the three formats respectively, was backed by Javed Miandad a lot and Akhtar revealed how the former Pakistan skipper helped Nazir during his initial days. “Whenever Imran Nazir played well, it was because of Javed Miandad. He would be in the dressing room and trying to get him to play. Whenever he played a bad shot Javed bhai would send him a message in order to keep him focused,” Akhtar said.

'There is no comparison' - Shoaib Akthar says Imran Nazir was more talented than Virender Sehwag

<p>The NBA informed clubs Monday that it plans to allow individual workouts by players at team facilities no sooner than May 8 in areas where allowed by government regulations.</p>

<p>The league shut down its 2019-20 season on March 12 after Utah's Rudy Gobert tested positive for the coronavirus and this marks the first small step toward resuming the campaign, although no timetable for that has been announced.</p>

<p>The move comes as several state and local governments have started easing stay-at-home orders on non-essential business activity.</p>

<p>Georgia and Oklahoma were among the first states with NBA teams to relax quarantine regulations, opening the door to possible workouts at club gyms and courts, with more states set to follow suit in the coming days.</p>

<p>"The purpose of these changes is to allow for safe and controlled environments for players to train in states that allow them to do so, and to create a process for identifying safe training options for players located in other states," the league said in a statement.</p>

<p>While advising that May 8 was the target date for allowing players into team facilities, the league warned it might push back the timing as developments warrant regarding the deadly virus outbreak.</p>

<p>Team facilities would be available for workouts or treatment on a voluntary individual basis provided no government restrictions against such activities are in place.</p>

<p>That is expected to open the door for as many as 10 NBA clubs to have players in team facilities, seen as secure environments, within a few days and potentially several more clubs by the opening date.</p>

<p>Another concern for the league is the potential fitness advantage some teams could gain over others based upon the ability to conduct workouts in team facilitities.</p>

<p>The NBA said it will work with teams to "identify alternatives" for any team that is prohibited from making its facility available to players due to government restrictions.</p>

<p>In theory, that could include having players working out at facilities of rival NBA clubs, possibly based upon where players reside or are located.</p>

<p>The NBA said no more than four players would be permitted at a facility at the same time and that no head coaches or assistant coaches could participate in any workouts.</p>

<p>Group activities, including practices or scrimmages, remain banned, and players are also prohibited from using non-team facilities such as public health clubs, fitness centers, or gyms.</p>

<p>The NBA regular season was halted with more than a month remaining in the campaign. The NBA playoffs, which last two months, were to have opened on April 18.</p>

<p>NBA commissioner Adam Silver said he would not examine a timetable for resumption of games before May, with speculation the league could go as late as early September in trying to stage a full post-season schedule.</p>

<p>Scenarios for resuming games while complying with coronavirus health restrictions have centered upon playing matches at a venue with teams gathered at one location and players sequestered, potentially for months, to avoid catching and spreading coronavirus.</p>


The NBA informed clubs Monday that it plans to allow individual workouts by players at team facilities no sooner than May 8 in areas where allowed by government regulations.

The NBA informed clubs Monday that it plans to allow individual workouts by players at team facilities no sooner than May 8 in areas where allowed by government regulations. The league shut down its 2019-20 season on March 12 after Utah's Rudy Gobert tested positive for the coronavirus and this marks the first small step toward resuming the campaign, although no timetable for that has been announced. The move comes as several state and local governments have started easing stay-at-home orders on non-essential business activity. Georgia and Oklahoma were among the first states with NBA teams to relax quarantine regulations, opening the door to possible workouts at club gyms and courts, with more states set to follow suit in the coming days. "The purpose of these changes is to allow for safe and controlled environments for players to train in states that allow them to do so, and to create a process for identifying safe training options for players located in other states," the league said in a statement. While advising that May 8 was the target date for allowing players into team facilities, the league warned it might push back the timing as developments warrant regarding the deadly virus outbreak. Team facilities would be available for workouts or treatment on a voluntary individual basis provided no government restrictions against such activities are in place. That is expected to open the door for as many as 10 NBA clubs to have players in team facilities, seen as secure environments, within a few days and potentially several more clubs by the opening date. Another concern for the league is the potential fitness advantage some teams could gain over others based upon the ability to conduct workouts in team facilitities. The NBA said it will work with teams to "identify alternatives" for any team that is prohibited from making its facility available to players due to government restrictions. In theory, that could include having players working out at facilities of rival NBA clubs, possibly based upon where players reside or are located. The NBA said no more than four players would be permitted at a facility at the same time and that no head coaches or assistant coaches could participate in any workouts. Group activities, including practices or scrimmages, remain banned, and players are also prohibited from using non-team facilities such as public health clubs, fitness centers, or gyms. The NBA regular season was halted with more than a month remaining in the campaign. The NBA playoffs, which last two months, were to have opened on April 18. NBA commissioner Adam Silver said he would not examine a timetable for resumption of games before May, with speculation the league could go as late as early September in trying to stage a full post-season schedule. Scenarios for resuming games while complying with coronavirus health restrictions have centered upon playing matches at a venue with teams gathered at one location and players sequestered, potentially for months, to avoid catching and spreading coronavirus.

NBA set to allow individual workouts not before May 8

<p>French professional sports leagues including football and rugby won’t be able to resume action before September due to COVID-19 restrictions, France Prime Minister Edouard Philippe announced on Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Philippe took the call as a part of a gradual plan to lift the lockdown restrictions in France as he said no event, where a crowd of more than 5,000 people gather, would be allowed until at least September.</p>

<p>The announcement by French PM effectively means the Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 season, which was halted by COVID-19 outbreak now stand cancelled.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-eases-lockdown-restrictions-shops-markets-to-reopen-on-may-11-295371">France eases lockdown restrictions; shops, markets to reopen on May 11</a></strong></p>

<p>Earlier, UEFA had set a deadline of August 2 for domestic leagues to be completed and French Professional Football League (LFP) had announced plans for Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 to resume on June 17.</p>

<p>While the league and some clubs may want to resume training after May 11, the French government doesn’t see it as an absolute priority and have decided to put a ban on professional sporting leagues including football and rugby until September.</p>

<p>Before the season was halted due to the outbreak of COVID-19, PSG, Marseille and Rennes occupied the UEFA Champions League whereas Lille are taking the Europa League spot. Nimes, Amiens and Toulouse are in the relegation zone. Whereas in Ligue 2, Lorient and Lens are in promotion spots.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-gives-premier-league-and-other-european-leagues-may-25-deadline-for-restart-proposals-295339" hreflang="en">UEFA gives Premier League and other European leagues May 25 deadline for restart proposals</a></strong></p>

<p>Even the president of French scientific council on coronavirus, Jean-Paul Delgraissy, was absolutely against the resumption of live football amid the pandemic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>'The answer for the moment is no, since all the places where there can be a significant public will not be open from May 11,' he said.&nbsp;<br />
'We give ourselves a few weeks. We are watching what is happening.'</p>

<p><br />
&nbsp;</p>


French professional sports leagues including football and rugby won’t be able to resume action before September due to COVID-19 restrictions, France Prime Minister Edouard Philippe announced on Tuesday.

French professional sports leagues including football and rugby won’t be able to resume action before September due to COVID-19 restrictions, France Prime Minister Edouard Philippe announced on Tuesday. Philippe took the call as a part of a gradual plan to lift the lockdown restrictions in France as he said no event, where a crowd of more than 5,000 people gather, would be allowed until at least September. The announcement by French PM effectively means the Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 season, which was halted by COVID-19 outbreak now stand cancelled. ALSO READ: France eases lockdown restrictions; shops, markets to reopen on May 11 Earlier, UEFA had set a deadline of August 2 for domestic leagues to be completed and French Professional Football League (LFP) had announced plans for Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 to resume on June 17. While the league and some clubs may want to resume training after May 11, the French government doesn’t see it as an absolute priority and have decided to put a ban on professional sporting leagues including football and rugby until September. Before the season was halted due to the outbreak of COVID-19, PSG, Marseille and Rennes occupied the UEFA Champions League whereas Lille are taking the Europa League spot. Nimes, Amiens and Toulouse are in the relegation zone. Whereas in Ligue 2, Lorient and Lens are in promotion spots. ALSO READ: UEFA gives Premier League and other European leagues May 25 deadline for restart proposals Even the president of French scientific council on coronavirus, Jean-Paul Delgraissy, was absolutely against the resumption of live football amid the pandemic. 'The answer for the moment is no, since all the places where there can be a significant public will not be open from May 11,' he said. 'We give ourselves a few weeks. We are watching what is happening.'

French PM Edouard Philippe's announcement ends Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 seasons

<p>Sports and socialising go hand in hand so how is it faring during this time of social distancing? Hockey India&nbsp;takes you behind-the-scenes on Twitter with live Q&amp;A and a rare peep into the day of players amid COVID-19.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As the world combats the COVID-19 pandemic, all the major sporting events in India and across the globe have either been postponed or cancelled including 2020 Tokyo Olympics, which the Indian hockey fans had been eagerly awaiting. While there is no live on-field action, Hockey India took to Twitter to engage with fans of the game and bring the players from both the men’s and women’s national teams to answer questions from passionate followers of the sport. This unique, open and real-time action harnessed the positive power of Twitter in the form of real-time engagement.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-trying-to-stay-positive-and-keep-our-spirits-up-pr-sreejesh-reflects-on-life-in-lockdown-postponement-of-tokyo-olympics-and-much-more-292979">Exclusive: 'Trying to stay positive and keep our spirits up' - PR Sreejesh reflects on life in lockdown, postponement of Tokyo Olympics, and much more</a></strong></p>

<p>During the lockdown, The Hockey India conducted a special Twitter Q&amp;A, #AskTeamIndia, and went live on the service with four players - India women's hockey captain Rani Rampal, India men's hockey captain Manpreet Singh, India men's hockey goalkeeper PR Sreejesh&nbsp;and defender Harmanpreet Singh&nbsp;- all of whom interacted keenly with their fans.</p>

<p>PR Sreejesh&nbsp;shares, “Twitter has always been a great service to engage with our fans, we are happy to have their support in #AskTeamIndia initiative which is fun, meaningful and also in some way I hope we are motivating fans to stay positive and active during these difficult times.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Here's your chance to ask <a href="https://twitter.com/imranirampal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imranirampal</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/manpreetpawar07?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@manpreetpawar07</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/16Sreejesh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@16Sreejesh</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/13harmanpreet?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@13harmanpreet</a> anything and they will answer your questions tomorrow!<br />
<br />
All you have to do is tag <a href="https://twitter.com/TheHockeyIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheHockeyIndia</a> and use <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AskTeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AskTeamIndia</a> alongside your question!<br />
<br />
Are you this happy right now?<br />
<br />
(3/4) <a href="https://t.co/bWFTdsVHKN">pic.twitter.com/bWFTdsVHKN</a></p>
— Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheHockeyIndia/status/1254669884211867648?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Hey Sabapathi..<br />
Adding the pictures of the books which I finished ... couple of them are there in my kindle as well <a href="https://t.co/UW0smKjibW">pic.twitter.com/UW0smKjibW</a></p>
— sreejesh p r (@16Sreejesh) <a href="https://twitter.com/16Sreejesh/status/1255047036061114368?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Currently we are only working on indoor fitness. Also working on our mental fitness and video analysis sessions. We all are trying to stay as much positive as we can.</p>
— Rani Rampal (@imranirampal) <a href="https://twitter.com/imranirampal/status/1255066270535319552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Hey<br />
Hope you are safe !<br />
So from the current indian squad<br />
Respect to discipline- shreejesh<br />
Behavior- rupinder bob<br />
Relationship with co- player — mandeep and simran (bhai bhai)<br />
Hardwork- everybody<br />
Sincerity- shreejesh<br />
Fun- maker —- simran gurinder and mandeep<br />
Thank you</p>
— Harmanpreet Singh (@13harmanpreet) <a href="https://twitter.com/13harmanpreet/status/1255091048633659392?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Talivaaaa</p>
— sreejesh p r (@16Sreejesh) <a href="https://twitter.com/16Sreejesh/status/1255089613778989056?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Well our qualification to Tokyo Olympics is a great team effort and lot of hard work put in by our coaches &amp; support staff alongwith <a href="https://twitter.com/TheHockeyIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheHockeyIndia</a> It was an honour for me to lead the team during qualifiers. It was really a great moment for all the teammates &amp; everyone involved.</p>
— Rani Rampal (@imranirampal) <a href="https://twitter.com/imranirampal/status/1255065348484677635?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">If you work out every day .... No food is unhealthy ( That’s my mantra)</p>
— sreejesh p r (@16Sreejesh) <a href="https://twitter.com/16Sreejesh/status/1255073581857247233?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>In addition to this candid chat, The Hockey India also kept fans updated with behind-the-scenes pictures to share how players are spending time indoors.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Good Morning everyone! It feels as if 𝐵𝑎𝑑𝑎𝑙 𝑃𝑒 𝑃𝑎𝑎𝑜𝑛 𝐻𝑎𝑖! ☁️🎶<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaKaGame?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaKaGame</a> <a href="https://t.co/qETeKH0ZOH">pic.twitter.com/qETeKH0ZOH</a></p>
— Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheHockeyIndia/status/1254979282088034304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="und">Din ki shuruaat ke liye, मेरे लिए तुम 𝐶𝑜𝑓𝑓𝑒𝑒 हो! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaKaGame?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaKaGame</a> <a href="https://t.co/BsfL6Up9p6">pic.twitter.com/BsfL6Up9p6</a></p>
— Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheHockeyIndia/status/1254983586194681857?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="es">𝑆𝑢𝑟𝑎𝑗 𝑇𝑒𝑟𝑎 𝐶ℎ𝑎𝑑ℎ𝑡𝑎 𝐷ℎ𝑎𝑙𝑡𝑎, 𝐺𝑎𝑟𝑑𝑖𝑠ℎ 𝑀𝑒𝑖𝑛 𝐾𝑎𝑟𝑡𝑒 𝐻𝑎𝑖𝑛 𝑇𝑎𝑟𝑒, 𝐷̶𝑎̶𝑛̶𝑔̶𝑎̶𝑙̶ ̶𝐷̶𝑎̶𝑛̶𝑔̶𝑎̶𝑙̶ dumbbell dumbbell!<br />
<br />
No day is complete without a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Workout?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Workout</a>!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaKaGame?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaKaGame</a> <a href="https://t.co/Fjsir1Va6U">pic.twitter.com/Fjsir1Va6U</a></p>
— Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheHockeyIndia/status/1254999361496334336?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>The India women's hockey team also completed a fitness challenge, as a part of which, they Tweeted fitness videos to raise funds to help those whose lives have been adversely impacted by Coronavirus.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Thank you for raising over ₹17,50,000 to help feed over 1000 families during this <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Lockdown?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Lockdown</a>.<br />
<br />
Come back tomorrow for yet another challenge by our Eves. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaKaGame?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaKaGame</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/100da?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#100da</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TakeChallengeGive100?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TakeChallengeGive100</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Give100ForCOVID?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Give100ForCOVID</a> <a href="https://t.co/CRxJsJG8Cy">pic.twitter.com/CRxJsJG8Cy</a></p>
— Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheHockeyIndia/status/1254762199836274688?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Completed Challenge<br />
Raised over ₹15,00,000<br />
Reach the goal of 20 Lakhs!<br />
<br />
We appreciate everyone's support on this journey to fight <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaKaGame?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaKaGame</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/100da?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#100da</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TakeChallengeGive100?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TakeChallengeGive100</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Give100ForCOVID?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Give100ForCOVID</a><a href="https://twitter.com/sports_odisha?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sports_odisha</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Media_SAI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Media_SAI</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaSports?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiaSports</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/udayfoundation?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@udayfoundation</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ketto?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ketto</a> <a href="https://t.co/OV7E4QIJND">pic.twitter.com/OV7E4QIJND</a></p>
— Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheHockeyIndia/status/1253677386018615307?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Completing Burpees with ease = raising over ₹9,00,000 to help reach the goal to feed 1000 families. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaWomen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaWomen</a>'sTeam thanks everyone who is coming out and being a part of this noble cause. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaKaGame?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaKaGame</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/100da?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#100da</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TakeChallengeGive100?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TakeChallengeGive100</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Give100ForCOVID?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Give100ForCOVID</a> <a href="https://t.co/3Q2Gb5w7Ue">pic.twitter.com/3Q2Gb5w7Ue</a></p>
— Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheHockeyIndia/status/1252583268773326849?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>


Sports and socialising go hand in hand so how is it faring during this time of social distancing? Hockey India takes you behind-the-scenes on Twitter with live Q&A and a rare peep into the day of players amid COVID-19.

Sports and socialising go hand in hand so how is it faring during this time of social distancing? Hockey India takes you behind-the-scenes on Twitter with live Q&A and a rare peep into the day of players amid COVID-19. As the world combats the COVID-19 pandemic, all the major sporting events in India and across the globe have either been postponed or cancelled including 2020 Tokyo Olympics, which the Indian hockey fans had been eagerly awaiting. While there is no live on-field action, Hockey India took to Twitter to engage with fans of the game and bring the players from both the men’s and women’s national teams to answer questions from passionate followers of the sport. This unique, open and real-time action harnessed the positive power of Twitter in the form of real-time engagement. ALSO READ: Exclusive: 'Trying to stay positive and keep our spirits up' - PR Sreejesh reflects on life in lockdown, postponement of Tokyo Olympics, and much more During the lockdown, The Hockey India conducted a special Twitter Q&A, #AskTeamIndia, and went live on the service with four players - India women's hockey captain Rani Rampal, India men's hockey captain Manpreet Singh, India men's hockey goalkeeper PR Sreejesh and defender Harmanpreet Singh - all of whom interacted keenly with their fans. PR Sreejesh shares, “Twitter has always been a great service to engage with our fans, we are happy to have their support in #AskTeamIndia initiative which is fun, meaningful and also in some way I hope we are motivating fans to stay positive and active during these difficult times.” Here's your chance to ask @imranirampal, @manpreetpawar07, @16Sreejesh and @13harmanpreet anything and they will answer your questions tomorrow! All you have to do is tag @TheHockeyIndia and use #AskTeamIndia alongside your question! Are you this happy right now? (3/4) pic.twitter.com/bWFTdsVHKN — Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) April 27, 2020 × Hey Sabapathi.. Adding the pictures of the books which I finished ... couple of them are there in my kindle as well pic.twitter.com/UW0smKjibW — sreejesh p r (@16Sreejesh) April 28, 2020 × Currently we are only working on indoor fitness. Also working on our mental fitness and video analysis sessions. We all are trying to stay as much positive as we can. — Rani Rampal (@imranirampal) April 28, 2020 × Hey Hope you are safe ! So from the current indian squad Respect to discipline- shreejesh Behavior- rupinder bob Relationship with co- player — mandeep and simran (bhai bhai) Hardwork- everybody Sincerity- shreejesh Fun- maker —- simran gurinder and mandeep Thank you — Harmanpreet Singh (@13harmanpreet) April 28, 2020 × Talivaaaa — sreejesh p r (@16Sreejesh) April 28, 2020 × Well our qualification to Tokyo Olympics is a great team effort and lot of hard work put in by our coaches & support staff alongwith @TheHockeyIndia It was an honour for me to lead the team during qualifiers. It was really a great moment for all the teammates & everyone involved. — Rani Rampal (@imranirampal) April 28, 2020 × If you work out every day .... No food is unhealthy ( That’s my mantra) — sreejesh p r (@16Sreejesh) April 28, 2020 × In addition to this candid chat, The Hockey India also kept fans updated with behind-the-scenes pictures to share how players are spending time indoors. Good Morning everyone! It feels as if 𝐵𝑎𝑑𝑎𝑙 𝑃𝑒 𝑃𝑎𝑎𝑜𝑛 𝐻𝑎𝑖! ☁️🎶#IndiaKaGame pic.twitter.com/qETeKH0ZOH — Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) April 28, 2020 × Din ki shuruaat ke liye, मेरे लिए तुम 𝐶𝑜𝑓𝑓𝑒𝑒 हो! #IndiaKaGame pic.twitter.com/BsfL6Up9p6 — Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) April 28, 2020 × 𝑆𝑢𝑟𝑎𝑗 𝑇𝑒𝑟𝑎 𝐶ℎ𝑎𝑑ℎ𝑡𝑎 𝐷ℎ𝑎𝑙𝑡𝑎, 𝐺𝑎𝑟𝑑𝑖𝑠ℎ 𝑀𝑒𝑖𝑛 𝐾𝑎𝑟𝑡𝑒 𝐻𝑎𝑖𝑛 𝑇𝑎𝑟𝑒, 𝐷̶𝑎̶𝑛̶𝑔̶𝑎̶𝑙̶ ̶𝐷̶𝑎̶𝑛̶𝑔̶𝑎̶𝑙̶ dumbbell dumbbell! No day is complete without a #Workout!#IndiaKaGame pic.twitter.com/Fjsir1Va6U — Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) April 28, 2020 × The India women's hockey team also completed a fitness challenge, as a part of which, they Tweeted fitness videos to raise funds to help those whose lives have been adversely impacted by Coronavirus. Thank you for raising over ₹17,50,000 to help feed over 1000 families during this #Lockdown. Come back tomorrow for yet another challenge by our Eves. #IndiaKaGame #100da #TakeChallengeGive100 #Give100ForCOVID pic.twitter.com/CRxJsJG8Cy — Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) April 27, 2020 × Completed Challenge Raised over ₹15,00,000 Reach the goal of 20 Lakhs! We appreciate everyone's support on this journey to fight #COVID19. #IndiaKaGame #100da #TakeChallengeGive100 #Give100ForCOVID@sports_odisha @Media_SAI @IndiaSports @udayfoundation @ketto pic.twitter.com/OV7E4QIJND — Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) April 24, 2020 × Completing Burpees with ease = raising over ₹9,00,000 to help reach the goal to feed 1000 families. #IndiaWomen'sTeam thanks everyone who is coming out and being a part of this noble cause. #IndiaKaGame #100da #TakeChallengeGive100 #Give100ForCOVID pic.twitter.com/3Q2Gb5w7Ue — Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) April 21, 2020 ×

Twitter brings fans closer to their favourite hockey players with #AskTeamIndia and behind-the-scenes action

<p>The 2019-20 season of France’s top-flight football Ligue 1 and second-division Ligue 2 are set to be cancelled on Tuesday with Prime Minister Edouard Philippe ready to announce that football matches, even behind closed doors, will not be allowed before August.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, UEFA had set a deadline of August 2 for domestic leagues to be completed and French Professional Football League (LFP had announced plans for Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 to resume on June 17.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-you-are-worse-than-coronavirus-you-are-poison-chris-gayle-slams-ex-windies-teammate-ramnaresh-sarwan-295328" hreflang="en">Watch: 'You are worse than coronavirus, you are poison' - Chris Gayle slams ex-Windies teammate Ramnaresh Sarwan</a></strong></p>

<p>However, with French prime minister set to announce that football matches will not be authorized to resume before August as part of their next stage of lockdown beyond May 11.</p>

<p>While the league and some clubs may want to resume training after May 11, the French government doesn’t see at as an absolute priority.</p>

<p>Furthermore, the LFP are planning to meet in May in a bid to finalise the standings for the season and which teams should be promoted and relegated.</p>

<p>Before the season was halted due to the outbreak of COVID-19, PSG, Marseille and Rennes occupied the UEFA Champions League whereas Lille are taking the Europa League spot. Nimes, Amiens and Toulouse are in the relegation zone. Whereas in Ligue 2, Lorient and Lens are in promotion spots.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-gives-premier-league-and-other-european-leagues-may-25-deadline-for-restart-proposals-295339" hreflang="en">UEFA gives Premier League and other European leagues May 25 deadline for restart proposals</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, PSG players have rejected a pay cut with negotiations stalling between board and players.</p>

<p>Even the president of French scientific council on coronavirus, Jean-Paul Delgraissy, was absolutely against the resumption of live football amid the pandemic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>'The answer for the moment is no, since all the places where there can be a significant public will not be open from May 11,' he said.&nbsp;<br />
'We give ourselves a few weeks. We are watching what is happening.'</p>

<p><br />
&nbsp;</p>


The 2019-20 season of France’s top-flight football Ligue 1 and second-division Ligue 2 are set to be cancelled on Tuesday with Prime Minister Edouard Philippe ready to announce that football matches, even behind closed doors, will not be allowed before August.

The 2019-20 season of France’s top-flight football Ligue 1 and second-division Ligue 2 are set to be cancelled on Tuesday with Prime Minister Edouard Philippe ready to announce that football matches, even behind closed doors, will not be allowed before August. Earlier, UEFA had set a deadline of August 2 for domestic leagues to be completed and French Professional Football League (LFP had announced plans for Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 to resume on June 17. ALSO READ: Watch: 'You are worse than coronavirus, you are poison' - Chris Gayle slams ex-Windies teammate Ramnaresh Sarwan However, with French prime minister set to announce that football matches will not be authorized to resume before August as part of their next stage of lockdown beyond May 11. While the league and some clubs may want to resume training after May 11, the French government doesn’t see at as an absolute priority. Furthermore, the LFP are planning to meet in May in a bid to finalise the standings for the season and which teams should be promoted and relegated. Before the season was halted due to the outbreak of COVID-19, PSG, Marseille and Rennes occupied the UEFA Champions League whereas Lille are taking the Europa League spot. Nimes, Amiens and Toulouse are in the relegation zone. Whereas in Ligue 2, Lorient and Lens are in promotion spots. ALSO READ: UEFA gives Premier League and other European leagues May 25 deadline for restart proposals Meanwhile, PSG players have rejected a pay cut with negotiations stalling between board and players. Even the president of French scientific council on coronavirus, Jean-Paul Delgraissy, was absolutely against the resumption of live football amid the pandemic. 'The answer for the moment is no, since all the places where there can be a significant public will not be open from May 11,' he said. 'We give ourselves a few weeks. We are watching what is happening.'

Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 set to be cancelled with French government ready to announce no football until August

<p>The COVID-19 pandemic has wiped out the entire sporting calendar, leaving fans and sportspersons with no live action at all. Athletes have taken to social media platforms to keep their fans engaged. However, there are reports surfacing that sporting action might witness resumption soon but behind closed doors. Former India skipper Sunil Gavaskar has given his take on the resumption of live matches.</p>

<p>Gavaskar is of the view that sporting authorities would be certainly banging their heads in frustration over the halt in sporting action while adding there are many intelligent people who would come up with some sort of solution in a bid to keep every party happy.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-have-spoken-to-prithvi-about-life-on-and-off-the-pitch-sachin-tendulkar-295346" hreflang="en">I have spoken to Prithvi about life on and off the pitch: Sachin Tendulkar</a></strong></p>

<p>The former India skipper further said that with how things are going, fans and sportspersons might be deprived of any sort of live action for four to five months more which is going to be tough for both fans and players.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Officials of all the various sporting federations would certainly be banging their heads together to find a solution and I am sure there are many intelligent people in there to be able to come up with some sort of a solution which will keep everybody happy but it's not gonna be easy,” Gavaskar told a leading news portal.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-you-are-worse-than-coronavirus-you-are-poison-chris-gayle-slams-ex-windies-teammate-ramnaresh-sarwan-295328" hreflang="en">Watch: 'You are worse than coronavirus, you are poison' - Chris Gayle slams ex-Windies teammate Ramnaresh Sarwan</a></strong></p>

<p>He further opined, "Certainly yes. the way things are going we might not be able to see any live sport for maybe 4-5 months. that's gonna be tough not just on the current players but also those who follow sport. There are so many fans of different sports," added the former right-hander.</p>

<p>While IPL 2020 has been indefinitely postponed amid the COVID-19 pandemic, there are major question marks on whether Australia will be able to host the ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled to be played in October-November.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


The COVID-19 pandemic has wiped out the entire sporting calendar, leaving fans and sportspersons with no live action at all. Athletes have taken to social media platforms to keep their fans engaged.

The COVID-19 pandemic has wiped out the entire sporting calendar, leaving fans and sportspersons with no live action at all. Athletes have taken to social media platforms to keep their fans engaged. However, there are reports surfacing that sporting action might witness resumption soon but behind closed doors. Former India skipper Sunil Gavaskar has given his take on the resumption of live matches. Gavaskar is of the view that sporting authorities would be certainly banging their heads in frustration over the halt in sporting action while adding there are many intelligent people who would come up with some sort of solution in a bid to keep every party happy. ALSO READ: I have spoken to Prithvi about life on and off the pitch: Sachin Tendulkar The former India skipper further said that with how things are going, fans and sportspersons might be deprived of any sort of live action for four to five months more which is going to be tough for both fans and players. "Officials of all the various sporting federations would certainly be banging their heads together to find a solution and I am sure there are many intelligent people in there to be able to come up with some sort of a solution which will keep everybody happy but it's not gonna be easy,” Gavaskar told a leading news portal. ALSO READ: Watch: 'You are worse than coronavirus, you are poison' - Chris Gayle slams ex-Windies teammate Ramnaresh Sarwan He further opined, "Certainly yes. the way things are going we might not be able to see any live sport for maybe 4-5 months. that's gonna be tough not just on the current players but also those who follow sport. There are so many fans of different sports," added the former right-hander. While IPL 2020 has been indefinitely postponed amid the COVID-19 pandemic, there are major question marks on whether Australia will be able to host the ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled to be played in October-November.

'We might not see any live sport for 4-5 months' - Sunil Gavaskar gives his take on resumption of sporting action

<p>He has been a model sportsman all his life and it was hardly a surprise when Sachin Tendulkar became a guide to the young Prithvi Shaw, helping him deal with life on 22 yards and off it during a rough patch.</p>

<p>The 20-year-old Shaw had a sensational Test debut as the second youngest Test centurion from India before an ankle injury and a failed dope test kept him out for 16 months.</p>

<p>Some disciplinary issues have also been talked about quite often in Indian cricket circles for some time now.</p>

<p>It was at this point that Tendulkar came into the picture and mentored Shaw as he negotiated a very precarious phase of life during which nascent careers can go southbound.</p>

<p>"Yes, it's true. I have had a number of interactions over the years with Prithvi. He is a very talented player and I am happy to help him. I spoke to him about cricket and also about life beyond cricket field," Tendulkar told PTI during an interaction.</p>

<p>However, Tendulkar was not comfortable when asked what exactly was discussed during his multiple sessions with Shaw.</p>

<p>"I believe if a youngster has approached me and sought guidance, there should be an element of confidentiality attached to it, at least from my side. So, I would not like to tell you what the discussions were," the iconic batsman said.</p>

<p>But Shaw, of late, has been very vocal about the guidance he got from the senior Mumbikar.</p>

<p>"That's fine. If Prithvi wants to speak about it, it's his choice."</p>

<p>Tendulkar said that he has always been open to guiding youngsters who would seek him out individually.</p>

<p>And there are a number of others, with whom he speaks on a one-on-one basis apart from Shaw.</p>

<p>"I have spoken and guided a lot of youngsters at an individual level. I have maintained that if anyone feels that I can be of any help in guiding them about their game, I am always open to the idea," the maestro said.</p>

<p>Not only Shaw, even India captain Virat Kohli sought Tendulkar's suggestions as recently as the Pink Ball Test against Bangladesh in November last year.</p>

<p>"I spoke to Sachin paaji on the evening of the first day and he made a very interesting point as well. Probably with the pink ball, you have to treat the second session like the morning session when it's getting darker and the ball starts to swing and seam.</p>

<p>"So first session you invariably play like you play from lunch to tea in a normal timing Test match, then the second session would be like a morning session and the last session is like that evening session," Kohli, who became India's first pink ball centurion, told mediapersons.&nbsp;</p>


He has been a model sportsman all his life and it was hardly a surprise when Sachin Tendulkar became a guide to the young Prithvi Shaw, helping him deal with life on 22 yards and off it during a rough patch.

He has been a model sportsman all his life and it was hardly a surprise when Sachin Tendulkar became a guide to the young Prithvi Shaw, helping him deal with life on 22 yards and off it during a rough patch. The 20-year-old Shaw had a sensational Test debut as the second youngest Test centurion from India before an ankle injury and a failed dope test kept him out for 16 months. Some disciplinary issues have also been talked about quite often in Indian cricket circles for some time now. It was at this point that Tendulkar came into the picture and mentored Shaw as he negotiated a very precarious phase of life during which nascent careers can go southbound. "Yes, it's true. I have had a number of interactions over the years with Prithvi. He is a very talented player and I am happy to help him. I spoke to him about cricket and also about life beyond cricket field," Tendulkar told PTI during an interaction. However, Tendulkar was not comfortable when asked what exactly was discussed during his multiple sessions with Shaw. "I believe if a youngster has approached me and sought guidance, there should be an element of confidentiality attached to it, at least from my side. So, I would not like to tell you what the discussions were," the iconic batsman said. But Shaw, of late, has been very vocal about the guidance he got from the senior Mumbikar. "That's fine. If Prithvi wants to speak about it, it's his choice." Tendulkar said that he has always been open to guiding youngsters who would seek him out individually. And there are a number of others, with whom he speaks on a one-on-one basis apart from Shaw. "I have spoken and guided a lot of youngsters at an individual level. I have maintained that if anyone feels that I can be of any help in guiding them about their game, I am always open to the idea," the maestro said. Not only Shaw, even India captain Virat Kohli sought Tendulkar's suggestions as recently as the Pink Ball Test against Bangladesh in November last year. "I spoke to Sachin paaji on the evening of the first day and he made a very interesting point as well. Probably with the pink ball, you have to treat the second session like the morning session when it's getting darker and the ball starts to swing and seam. "So first session you invariably play like you play from lunch to tea in a normal timing Test match, then the second session would be like a morning session and the last session is like that evening session," Kohli, who became India's first pink ball centurion, told mediapersons.

I have spoken to Prithvi about life on and off the pitch: Sachin Tendulkar

<p>UEFA has asked the Premier League and other European leagues to come up with a definite plan on how they plan to conclude the halted-season by May 25. The dreaded virus has wiped out the entire sporting calendar with the resumption of live action under dark clouds.</p>

<p>UEFA president Aleksander Caferin and general secretary Theodore Theodoridis have had talks with the Premier League and other leagues in Europe as they asked them to chalk out a detailed plan on how they want to conclude the current campaign.</p>

<p>A statement from European football's governing body said: "National Associations and/or Leagues should be in a position to communicate to UEFA by May 25, 2020, the planned restart of their domestic competitions — including the date of restart and the competition format."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-mike-tysons-business-partner-alki-david-confident-of-acquiring-naming-rights-of-barcelonas-nou-camp-says-ready-to-help-the-club-in-every-possible-way-295293" hreflang="en">Exclusive: Mike Tyson's business partner Alki David confident of acquiring naming rights of Barcelona's Nou Camp, says "ready to help the club in every possible way"</a></strong></p>

<p>UEFA has asked clubs to communicate a plan by May 25 as to how they plan to restart domestic competitions. The footballing body has also asked association such as the Dutch FA, to "explain the special circumstances justifying such premature termination" by the same deadline</p>

<p>UEFA’s Executive Committee will next hold a conference call on May 27 to take a concrete call on whether European competitions can be completed in August.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-liverpool-striker-michael-robinson-dies-at-61-295320" hreflang="en">Former Liverpool striker Michael Robinson dies at 61</a></strong></p>

<p>A UEFA working group has made ‘strong recommendation’ on completing domestic season but the authorities would prefer halted domestic competitions to restart ‘with a different format’ rather than cancelling it.</p>

<p>UEFA has also asked the 12 host cities of next summer's delayed European Championship to confirm their participation by Thursday<br />
&nbsp;</p>


UEFA has asked the Premier League and other European leagues to come up with a definite plan on how they plan to conclude the halted-season by May 25. The dreaded virus has wiped out the entire sporting calendar with the resumption of live action under dark clouds.

UEFA has asked the Premier League and other European leagues to come up with a definite plan on how they plan to conclude the halted-season by May 25. The dreaded virus has wiped out the entire sporting calendar with the resumption of live action under dark clouds. UEFA president Aleksander Caferin and general secretary Theodore Theodoridis have had talks with the Premier League and other leagues in Europe as they asked them to chalk out a detailed plan on how they want to conclude the current campaign. A statement from European football's governing body said: "National Associations and/or Leagues should be in a position to communicate to UEFA by May 25, 2020, the planned restart of their domestic competitions — including the date of restart and the competition format." ALSO READ: Exclusive: Mike Tyson's business partner Alki David confident of acquiring naming rights of Barcelona's Nou Camp, says "ready to help the club in every possible way" UEFA has asked clubs to communicate a plan by May 25 as to how they plan to restart domestic competitions. The footballing body has also asked association such as the Dutch FA, to "explain the special circumstances justifying such premature termination" by the same deadline UEFA’s Executive Committee will next hold a conference call on May 27 to take a concrete call on whether European competitions can be completed in August. ALSO READ: Former Liverpool striker Michael Robinson dies at 61 A UEFA working group has made ‘strong recommendation’ on completing domestic season but the authorities would prefer halted domestic competitions to restart ‘with a different format’ rather than cancelling it. UEFA has also asked the 12 host cities of next summer's delayed European Championship to confirm their participation by Thursday

UEFA gives Premier League and other European leagues May 25 deadline for restart proposals

<p>West Indies legend Chris Gayle’s contract with Caribbean Premier League (CPL) franchise Jamaica Tallawahs came to an end after following termination of the contract. Gayle, who has been one of the biggest crowd attractions in T20 leagues all around the world, went on a rant on social media platform YouTube as he called former Windies teammate Ramnaresh Sarwan a ‘snake’ and ‘worse than coronavirus’.</p>

<p>Gayle didn’t have problem finding suitors following the termination of the contract with Jamaica Tallawahs as he signed a deal with St. Lucia ahead of CPL 2020 but the swashbuckling southpaw didn’t mince his words while calling out Sarwan, who is the assistant coach at Jamaica Tallawahs, for allegedly plotting his move out of the franchise.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/three-year-ban-very-harsh-umar-will-definitely-challenge-it-kamran-akmal-295305" hreflang="en">Three-year ban 'very harsh', Umar will 'definitely' challenge it: Kamran Akmal</a></strong></p>

<p>“Sarwan, you are worse than the coronavirus right now,” Gayle said in of the videos he posted on his official YouTube channel. “What transpired with the Tallawahs, you had a big part to play. Sarwan, you were the one who gave a big speech on my birthday party about how far we have come. Sarwan, you are a snake. You know, you are not the most loved person in the Caribbean. You are so vindictive, you are still immature, you are back-stabbing.”</p>

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<p>Gayle further admitted that there were troubles with his contract with Tallawahs which meant the CPL franchise had to let him go. However, he revealed that Sarwan was targeting the head coach’s job as he called Sarwan a ‘evil’, ‘wicked and ‘poison’.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“In everybody’s eyes, you acted as if you were this saint, this good person,” Gayle continued his rant.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-mike-tysons-business-partner-alki-david-confident-of-acquiring-naming-rights-of-barcelonas-nou-camp-says-ready-to-help-the-club-in-every-possible-way-295293" hreflang="en">Exclusive: Mike Tyson's business partner Alki David confident of acquiring naming rights of Barcelona's Nou Camp, says "ready to help the club in every possible way"</a></strong></p>

<p>“Sarwan, you’re evil, you’re wicked, you’re poison. You let a thing like this transpire.”</p>

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<p>Gayle had won CPL trophies with Jamaica Tallawahs in 2013 and 2016 before signing back for the franchise in the year 2020.</p>

<p>“When I left the Tallawahs [after the 2016 season], it was a high-spirited team,” Gayle said. “The amount of complaints I get when I wasn’t there, the amount of problems they had with Sarwan, [Andre] Russell was the captain at the time; the amount of problems Sarwan and the captain have, keeping meetings behind the captain’s back and these sort of things. That’s the kind of person Sarwan is.</p>

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<p>“You are no good. You are despicable. You want the franchise, have it. There’s no Gayle. You run the show.”&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


West Indies legend Chris Gayle’s contract with Caribbean Premier League (CPL) franchise Jamaica Tallawahs came to an end after following termination of the contract.

West Indies legend Chris Gayle’s contract with Caribbean Premier League (CPL) franchise Jamaica Tallawahs came to an end after following termination of the contract. Gayle, who has been one of the biggest crowd attractions in T20 leagues all around the world, went on a rant on social media platform YouTube as he called former Windies teammate Ramnaresh Sarwan a ‘snake’ and ‘worse than coronavirus’. Gayle didn’t have problem finding suitors following the termination of the contract with Jamaica Tallawahs as he signed a deal with St. Lucia ahead of CPL 2020 but the swashbuckling southpaw didn’t mince his words while calling out Sarwan, who is the assistant coach at Jamaica Tallawahs, for allegedly plotting his move out of the franchise. ALSO READ: Three-year ban 'very harsh', Umar will 'definitely' challenge it: Kamran Akmal “Sarwan, you are worse than the coronavirus right now,” Gayle said in of the videos he posted on his official YouTube channel. “What transpired with the Tallawahs, you had a big part to play. Sarwan, you were the one who gave a big speech on my birthday party about how far we have come. Sarwan, you are a snake. You know, you are not the most loved person in the Caribbean. You are so vindictive, you are still immature, you are back-stabbing.” × Gayle further admitted that there were troubles with his contract with Tallawahs which meant the CPL franchise had to let him go. However, he revealed that Sarwan was targeting the head coach’s job as he called Sarwan a ‘evil’, ‘wicked and ‘poison’. “In everybody’s eyes, you acted as if you were this saint, this good person,” Gayle continued his rant. ALSO READ: Exclusive: Mike Tyson's business partner Alki David confident of acquiring naming rights of Barcelona's Nou Camp, says "ready to help the club in every possible way" “Sarwan, you’re evil, you’re wicked, you’re poison. You let a thing like this transpire.” × Gayle had won CPL trophies with Jamaica Tallawahs in 2013 and 2016 before signing back for the franchise in the year 2020. “When I left the Tallawahs [after the 2016 season], it was a high-spirited team,” Gayle said. “The amount of complaints I get when I wasn’t there, the amount of problems they had with Sarwan, [Andre] Russell was the captain at the time; the amount of problems Sarwan and the captain have, keeping meetings behind the captain’s back and these sort of things. That’s the kind of person Sarwan is. × “You are no good. You are despicable. You want the franchise, have it. There’s no Gayle. You run the show.”

Watch: 'You are worse than coronavirus, you are poison' - Chris Gayle slams ex-Windies teammate Ramnaresh Sarwan

<p>Liverpool's former Republic of Ireland striker Michael Robinson, who became a well-known commentator in Spain, has died aged 61, his family announced on Tuesday.</p>

<p>Robinson, who settled in Spain after his retirement and had an extensive media career, succumbed to cancer first diagnosed in 2018. He passed away at his home in Marbella.</p>

<p>"With tremendous sadness we inform you of Michael’s death," his family announced on Twitter.</p>

<p>"It leaves us with a great emptiness, but also countless memories, full of the same love that you have shown him.</p>

<p>“We will be eternally grateful to you for making this man SO HAPPY, he never walked alone. Thank you."</p>

<p>After spells with Preston North End and Manchester City Robinson featured in the 1983 FA Cup final for Brighton, before moving to Anfield.</p>

<p>He was part of the Liverpool squad that captured the league, League Cup and European Cup treble in 1984.</p>

<p>"We’re deeply saddened by the passing of former player Michael Robinson, aged 61," Liverpool tweeted.</p>

<p>"The thoughts of everybody at Liverpool Football Club are with Michael’s family and friends at this sad time. Rest in peace, Michael."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">We’re deeply saddened by the passing of former player Michael Robinson, aged 61.<br />
<br />
The thoughts of everybody at Liverpool Football Club are with Michael’s family and friends at this sad time.<br />
<br />
Rest in peace, Michael. <a href="https://t.co/o8Zu3hjICc">pic.twitter.com/o8Zu3hjICc</a></p>
— Liverpool FC (at ) (@LFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/LFC/status/1255052955268591616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>After Liverpool, he joined Queens Park Rangers, before ending his career with Spanish side Osasuna.</p>

<p>After retiring in 1989 he remained in Spain to become one of the country's most distinguished football pundits.</p>

<p>According to Spanish daily El Pais, Robinson "revolutionised the way football was analysed".</p>

<p>"He was with us on thousands of afternoons of football, recounting incredible anecdotes, and showing us a way of life beyond football," the paper wrote.</p>

<p>"Thank you Michael Robinson. We will miss you. You'll never walk alone."</p>

<p>Robinson represented the Republic of Ireland 24 times, scoring four goals.</p>


Liverpool's former Republic of Ireland striker Michael Robinson, who became a well-known commentator in Spain, has died aged 61, his family announced on Tuesday.

Liverpool's former Republic of Ireland striker Michael Robinson, who became a well-known commentator in Spain, has died aged 61, his family announced on Tuesday. Robinson, who settled in Spain after his retirement and had an extensive media career, succumbed to cancer first diagnosed in 2018. He passed away at his home in Marbella. "With tremendous sadness we inform you of Michael’s death," his family announced on Twitter. "It leaves us with a great emptiness, but also countless memories, full of the same love that you have shown him. “We will be eternally grateful to you for making this man SO HAPPY, he never walked alone. Thank you." After spells with Preston North End and Manchester City Robinson featured in the 1983 FA Cup final for Brighton, before moving to Anfield. He was part of the Liverpool squad that captured the league, League Cup and European Cup treble in 1984. "We’re deeply saddened by the passing of former player Michael Robinson, aged 61," Liverpool tweeted. "The thoughts of everybody at Liverpool Football Club are with Michael’s family and friends at this sad time. Rest in peace, Michael." We’re deeply saddened by the passing of former player Michael Robinson, aged 61. The thoughts of everybody at Liverpool Football Club are with Michael’s family and friends at this sad time. Rest in peace, Michael. pic.twitter.com/o8Zu3hjICc — Liverpool FC (at ) (@LFC) April 28, 2020 × After Liverpool, he joined Queens Park Rangers, before ending his career with Spanish side Osasuna. After retiring in 1989 he remained in Spain to become one of the country's most distinguished football pundits. According to Spanish daily El Pais, Robinson "revolutionised the way football was analysed". "He was with us on thousands of afternoons of football, recounting incredible anecdotes, and showing us a way of life beyond football," the paper wrote. "Thank you Michael Robinson. We will miss you. You'll never walk alone." Robinson represented the Republic of Ireland 24 times, scoring four goals.

Former Liverpool striker Michael Robinson dies at 61

<p>Pakistan batsman Umar Akmal was handed a lengthy three-year ban for not reporting corrupt approaches. Veteran Pakistan wicket-keeper batsman, and Umar’s brother, Kamran Akmal has been left surprised by the length of the ban as he termed the verdict ‘very harsh’ while adding that Umar will “definitely challenge it”.</p>

<p>Kamran confirmed that his brother will approach every possible forum to appeal against the three-year-ban. The veteran batsman said in past, players have received shorter bans for similar offences and Umar’s ban is hard to understand.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I am definitely surprised at the harsh punishment given to Umar. A three- year ban is very harsh. He will definitely approach every available forum to appeal against this ban,” Kamran said.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistans-umar-akmal-banned-for-3-years-from-all-forms-of-cricket-for-breaching-anti-corruption-code-295108" hreflang="en">Pakistan's Umar Akmal banned for 3 years from all forms of cricket for breaching anti-corruption code</a></strong></p>

<p>“Definitely it is hard to understand because other players in the past have got short bans for similar offences. Yet Umar has got such a harsh punishment.” Akmal was referring to Mohammad Irfan and Mohammad Nawaz who were banned for short periods after not reporting corrupt approaches made to them.</p>

<p>Kamran said Umar would consider hiring a legal counsel to file his appeal after presenting his own case in Monday’s hearing. PCB was represented by legal counsel Tafazzul Rizvi.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-likely-to-be-postponed-no-ipl-this-year-shoaib-akhtar-gives-his-take-as-covid-19-continues-to-hit-sporting-world-295141" hreflang="en">'T20 World Cup likely to be postponed, no IPL this year' - Shoaib Akhtar gives his take as COVID-19 continues to hit sporting world</a></strong></p>

<p>“Umar admitted to the charges but tried to justify himself and the judge also gave him a chance several times to review his position which he didn’t,” Rizvi said.</p>

<p>&nbsp;Umar was charged on two counts of not reporting offers made to him to spot-fix in Pakistan Super League. Justice (retd) Fazal-e-Miran Chauhan imposed a three-year-ban on Umar while a detailed order will be released later.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Pakistan batsman Umar Akmal was handed a lengthy three-year ban for not reporting corrupt approaches. Veteran Pakistan wicket-keeper batsman, and Umar’s brother, Kamran Akmal has been left surprised by the length of the ban as he termed the verdict ‘very harsh’ while adding that Umar will “definitely challenge it”.

Pakistan batsman Umar Akmal was handed a lengthy three-year ban for not reporting corrupt approaches. Veteran Pakistan wicket-keeper batsman, and Umar’s brother, Kamran Akmal has been left surprised by the length of the ban as he termed the verdict ‘very harsh’ while adding that Umar will “definitely challenge it”. Kamran confirmed that his brother will approach every possible forum to appeal against the three-year-ban. The veteran batsman said in past, players have received shorter bans for similar offences and Umar’s ban is hard to understand. “I am definitely surprised at the harsh punishment given to Umar. A three- year ban is very harsh. He will definitely approach every available forum to appeal against this ban,” Kamran said. ALSO READ: Pakistan's Umar Akmal banned for 3 years from all forms of cricket for breaching anti-corruption code “Definitely it is hard to understand because other players in the past have got short bans for similar offences. Yet Umar has got such a harsh punishment.” Akmal was referring to Mohammad Irfan and Mohammad Nawaz who were banned for short periods after not reporting corrupt approaches made to them. Kamran said Umar would consider hiring a legal counsel to file his appeal after presenting his own case in Monday’s hearing. PCB was represented by legal counsel Tafazzul Rizvi. ALSO READ: 'T20 World Cup likely to be postponed, no IPL this year' - Shoaib Akhtar gives his take as COVID-19 continues to hit sporting world “Umar admitted to the charges but tried to justify himself and the judge also gave him a chance several times to review his position which he didn’t,” Rizvi said. Umar was charged on two counts of not reporting offers made to him to spot-fix in Pakistan Super League. Justice (retd) Fazal-e-Miran Chauhan imposed a three-year-ban on Umar while a detailed order will be released later.

Three-year ban 'very harsh', Umar will 'definitely' challenge it: Kamran Akmal

<p>The 2020 Tokyo Olympics, which was earlier postponed to 2021, will be cancelled if the COVID-19 pandemic isn’t brought under control by the time the Games are scheduled, the organising committee’s president Yoshiro Mori said on Tuesday.</p>

<p>The COVID-19 pandemic has already forced a year-long delay of the Tokyo Olympics, which are now scheduled to start on July 23, 2021, giving major headaches to the organising committee and Japan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mori was asked if Olympics could be further delayed in case the situation surrounding COVID-19 pandemic continues to remain threat in the year 2021, to which the organising committee’s president replied: “No.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In that case, it's cancelled," Mori said.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jamal-khashoggis-fiancee-pleads-premier-league-to-block-saudi-takeover-295194" hreflang="en">Jamal Khashoggi's fiancee pleads Premier League to block Saudi takeover</a></strong></p>

<p>However, if the dreaded virus is brought under control by 2021 then Mori said: "we'll hold the Olympics in peace next summer. Mankind is betting on it."</p>

<p>Coming under immense pressure and criticism, Japanese organisers and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) decided to postpone the Games by a year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Organisers and Japanese officials were optimistic that the delayed Tokyo Olympics will be celebrated as world’s triumph over the coronavirus, however, in the recent weeks, questions have arisen whether a year’s delay is sufficient.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/a-total-of-5-substitutions-per-match-fifa-proposes-temporary-rule-changes-to-reduce-potential-player-overload-after-resumption-295130" hreflang="en">A total of 5 substitutions per match? FIFA proposes temporary rule changes to reduce 'potential player overload' after resumption</a></strong></p>

<p>On Tuesday, head of Japan Medical Association rang the alarm bells as he said it would be "exceedingly difficult" to conduct the Games in 2021 if a vaccine isn’t found by then.</p>

<p>"I would not say that they should not be held, but it would be exceedingly difficult," Yoshitake Yokokura told reporters at a briefing.<br />
Earlier, a&nbsp;Japanese medical expert&nbsp;had said he was “very pessimistic” that the postponed Olympics can be held in 2021.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


The 2020 Tokyo Olympics, which was earlier postponed to 2021, will be cancelled if the COVID-19 pandemic isn’t brought under control by the time the Games are scheduled, the organising committee’s president Yoshiro Mori said on Tuesday.

The 2020 Tokyo Olympics, which was earlier postponed to 2021, will be cancelled if the COVID-19 pandemic isn’t brought under control by the time the Games are scheduled, the organising committee’s president Yoshiro Mori said on Tuesday. The COVID-19 pandemic has already forced a year-long delay of the Tokyo Olympics, which are now scheduled to start on July 23, 2021, giving major headaches to the organising committee and Japan. Mori was asked if Olympics could be further delayed in case the situation surrounding COVID-19 pandemic continues to remain threat in the year 2021, to which the organising committee’s president replied: “No.” "In that case, it's cancelled," Mori said. ALSO READ: Jamal Khashoggi's fiancee pleads Premier League to block Saudi takeover However, if the dreaded virus is brought under control by 2021 then Mori said: "we'll hold the Olympics in peace next summer. Mankind is betting on it." Coming under immense pressure and criticism, Japanese organisers and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) decided to postpone the Games by a year. Organisers and Japanese officials were optimistic that the delayed Tokyo Olympics will be celebrated as world’s triumph over the coronavirus, however, in the recent weeks, questions have arisen whether a year’s delay is sufficient. ALSO READ: A total of 5 substitutions per match? FIFA proposes temporary rule changes to reduce 'potential player overload' after resumption On Tuesday, head of Japan Medical Association rang the alarm bells as he said it would be "exceedingly difficult" to conduct the Games in 2021 if a vaccine isn’t found by then. "I would not say that they should not be held, but it would be exceedingly difficult," Yoshitake Yokokura told reporters at a briefing. Earlier, a Japanese medical expert had said he was “very pessimistic” that the postponed Olympics can be held in 2021.

Tokyo Olympics will be cancelled if coronavirus pandemic is not over, says Games chief

<p>West Ham, Brighton and Arsenal opened their training grounds to players on Monday as Premier League clubs took steps towards a potential re-start.</p>

<p>The English top-flight is reportedly eyeing a resumption of the season on June 8 behind closed doors due to the coronavirus pandemic.</p>

<p>"Project Restart" could see the 20 Premier League clubs resume full training by May 18, allowing players a three-week "pre-season".</p>

<p>Premier League chiefs, due to meet with sides on Friday, are committed to finishing the season, with Liverpool on the brink of their first English top-flight title for 30 years.</p>

<p>Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said he has spoken to clubs about restarting the Premier League "as soon as possible".</p>

<p>"I personally have been in talks with the Premier League with a view to getting football up and running as soon as possible in order to support the whole football community," Dowden said during a parliamentary questions session for the Department of Digital, Culture, Media and Sport.</p>

<p>"But, of course, any such moves would have to be consistent with public health guidance."</p>

<p>Brighton said in a statement on Monday the club were allowing "restricted external access to the training pitches for first-team players only, for non-compulsory individual training".</p>

<p>"Players will need to book and be allotted staggered arrival slots, allocated their own area to train and expected to fully adhere to social distancing rules while doing so, and when arriving and exiting the facility," the statement added.</p>

<p>A West Ham spokesman said players in apartments or without safe access to green spaces were permitted access to training pitches.</p>

<p>"Access will be limited to one player at a time and all sessions will be in line with government guidelines around social distancing," he said.</p>

<p>An Arsenal club spokesman confirmed on Saturday players would be allowed to return this week but access would be carefully managed.</p>

<p>It was unclear whether manager Mikel Arteta, who tested positive for the virus last month but has since recovered, was present on Monday.</p>

<p>Tottenham also announced they would reopen some facilities from Tuesday, with a limited amount of pitches to be made available for players to use in individual sessions.</p>

<p>The club said "only a restricted number of the squad" would be permitted at the training centre each day.</p>

<p>Britain, on lockdown until May 7 at the earliest, has been one of the countries hardest hit by the pandemic, with more than 20,000 hospital deaths.</p>


West Ham, Brighton and Arsenal opened their training grounds to players on Monday as Premier League clubs took steps towards a potential re-start. The English top-flight is reportedly eyeing a resumption of the season on June 8 behind closed doors due to the coronavirus pandemic.

West Ham, Brighton and Arsenal opened their training grounds to players on Monday as Premier League clubs took steps towards a potential re-start. The English top-flight is reportedly eyeing a resumption of the season on June 8 behind closed doors due to the coronavirus pandemic. "Project Restart" could see the 20 Premier League clubs resume full training by May 18, allowing players a three-week "pre-season". Premier League chiefs, due to meet with sides on Friday, are committed to finishing the season, with Liverpool on the brink of their first English top-flight title for 30 years. Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said he has spoken to clubs about restarting the Premier League "as soon as possible". "I personally have been in talks with the Premier League with a view to getting football up and running as soon as possible in order to support the whole football community," Dowden said during a parliamentary questions session for the Department of Digital, Culture, Media and Sport. "But, of course, any such moves would have to be consistent with public health guidance." Brighton said in a statement on Monday the club were allowing "restricted external access to the training pitches for first-team players only, for non-compulsory individual training". "Players will need to book and be allotted staggered arrival slots, allocated their own area to train and expected to fully adhere to social distancing rules while doing so, and when arriving and exiting the facility," the statement added. A West Ham spokesman said players in apartments or without safe access to green spaces were permitted access to training pitches. "Access will be limited to one player at a time and all sessions will be in line with government guidelines around social distancing," he said. An Arsenal club spokesman confirmed on Saturday players would be allowed to return this week but access would be carefully managed. It was unclear whether manager Mikel Arteta, who tested positive for the virus last month but has since recovered, was present on Monday. Tottenham also announced they would reopen some facilities from Tuesday, with a limited amount of pitches to be made available for players to use in individual sessions. The club said "only a restricted number of the squad" would be permitted at the training centre each day. Britain, on lockdown until May 7 at the earliest, has been one of the countries hardest hit by the pandemic, with more than 20,000 hospital deaths.

West Ham, Brighton players return to training grounds

<p>Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte on Sunday delayed a decision on restarting Serie A football but gave the green light for top athletes to resume training in a week's time.</p>

<p>Conte unveiled the first details of how the country will emerge from a lockdown aimed at halting the spread of the coronavirus pandemic that has officially claimed more than 26,000 lives in Italy and 200,000 worldwide.</p>

<p>He said individual athletes would be allowed to resume training on May 4.</p>

<p>Teams could start to train together again on May 18.</p>

<p>But Conte did not say when Serie A might resume a season interrupted on March 9 with Juventus leading Lazio by a point.</p>

<p>"The championship will start again only when it is safe," Conte told the nation in a televised address.</p>

<p>Italian football chiefs agreed on Thursday to push back the end of the Serie A season from June 30 to August 2.</p>


Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte on Sunday delayed a decision on restarting Serie A football but gave the green light for top athletes to resume training in a week's time.

Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte on Sunday delayed a decision on restarting Serie A football but gave the green light for top athletes to resume training in a week's time. Conte unveiled the first details of how the country will emerge from a lockdown aimed at halting the spread of the coronavirus pandemic that has officially claimed more than 26,000 lives in Italy and 200,000 worldwide. He said individual athletes would be allowed to resume training on May 4. Teams could start to train together again on May 18. But Conte did not say when Serie A might resume a season interrupted on March 9 with Juventus leading Lazio by a point. "The championship will start again only when it is safe," Conte told the nation in a televised address. Italian football chiefs agreed on Thursday to push back the end of the Serie A season from June 30 to August 2.

Italy's PM delays Serie A restart decision

<p>Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar remains to be one of the most active cricketers to be vocal about the issues surrounding COVID-19 and cricket post the pandemic. While Akhtar was the one to propose a bilateral series between India and Pakistan to raise funds to combat the dreaded virus, the Rawalpindi Express has now given his take on the fate of Indian Premier League (IPL) and ICC T20 World Cup.&nbsp;</p>

<p>IPL 2020 was postponed indefinitely amid the COVID-19 pandemic, whereas there has been no call taken on the T20 World Cup with speculations surrounding the showpiece event continues to garner eyeballs.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistans-umar-akmal-banned-for-3-years-from-all-forms-of-cricket-for-breaching-anti-corruption-code-295108" hreflang="en">Pakistan's Umar Akmal banned for 3 years from all forms of cricket for breaching anti-corruption code</a></strong></p>

<p>Now, Akhtar has said that the T20 World Cup is likely to be postponed&nbsp;due to coronavirus while adding that he feels there will be no IPL this year as well. Akhtar further said it is the best time for cricketers to work on their immune system and come back with the same intensity once the action resumes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“T20 World Cup, starting October 18 is likely to be postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic. I also feel that there will be no IPL this year due to the pandemic. But this break is the best time for the cricketers to work on their immune system and get back with the same intensity and vigour when the sporting action resumes,” Shoaib Akhtar told fans during his live session.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rcbs-virat-kohli-ab-de-villiers-put-memorabilia-from-ipl-2016-on-auction-to-raise-funds-in-battle-against-covid-19-295042" hreflang="en">RCB's Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers put memorabilia from IPL 2016 on auction to raise funds in battle against COVID-19</a></strong></p>

<p>Akthar further praised the Prime Minsiter Narendra Modi-led Indian government for being quick to enforce a country-wide lockdown in a bid to curb the spread of COVID-19. However, Akhtar once again reiterated that it is high time to have a good bilateral relationship between India and Pakistan through sport.</p>

<p>“It is high time when we can have a good bilateral relationship between India and Pakistan through sport. Lockdown was the best decision taken by the Modi-led government in India. That is the only way you can contain a pandemic like this,” the Rawalpindi Express added. &nbsp;&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar remains to be one of the most active cricketers to be vocal about the issues surrounding COVID-19 and cricket post the pandemic.

Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar remains to be one of the most active cricketers to be vocal about the issues surrounding COVID-19 and cricket post the pandemic. While Akhtar was the one to propose a bilateral series between India and Pakistan to raise funds to combat the dreaded virus, the Rawalpindi Express has now given his take on the fate of Indian Premier League (IPL) and ICC T20 World Cup. IPL 2020 was postponed indefinitely amid the COVID-19 pandemic, whereas there has been no call taken on the T20 World Cup with speculations surrounding the showpiece event continues to garner eyeballs. ALSO READ: Pakistan's Umar Akmal banned for 3 years from all forms of cricket for breaching anti-corruption code Now, Akhtar has said that the T20 World Cup is likely to be postponed due to coronavirus while adding that he feels there will be no IPL this year as well. Akhtar further said it is the best time for cricketers to work on their immune system and come back with the same intensity once the action resumes. “T20 World Cup, starting October 18 is likely to be postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic. I also feel that there will be no IPL this year due to the pandemic. But this break is the best time for the cricketers to work on their immune system and get back with the same intensity and vigour when the sporting action resumes,” Shoaib Akhtar told fans during his live session. ALSO READ: RCB's Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers put memorabilia from IPL 2016 on auction to raise funds in battle against COVID-19 Akthar further praised the Prime Minsiter Narendra Modi-led Indian government for being quick to enforce a country-wide lockdown in a bid to curb the spread of COVID-19. However, Akhtar once again reiterated that it is high time to have a good bilateral relationship between India and Pakistan through sport. “It is high time when we can have a good bilateral relationship between India and Pakistan through sport. Lockdown was the best decision taken by the Modi-led government in India. That is the only way you can contain a pandemic like this,” the Rawalpindi Express added.

'T20 World Cup likely to be postponed, no IPL this year' - Shoaib Akhtar gives his take as COVID-19 continues to hit sporting world

<p>A lot has been said and debated over the possible resumption of live football with many popular leagues considering starting the already halted season. However, there were major concerns that players may suffer constant injuries due to lack of preparation time and going straight into matches following a prolonged time away from the pitch.&nbsp;</p>

<p>To tackle the injury concerns, FIFA has proposed that teams should be allowed to make up to five substitutions per game, instead of the usual three. The proposal by FIFA comes as a temporary measure to help football clubs cope with possible fixture congestion post the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>UEFA along with many other football leagues and federations are hoping to complete the halted season but that would mean a crammed fixture list to complete the season in a short period of time.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/italys-pm-delays-serie-a-restart-decision-295002" hreflang="en">Italy's PM delays Serie A restart decision</a></strong></p>

<p>The proposal of five substitutes would need to be approved by football’s rule-making organization – IFAB - and the final call would rest with the organisers of respective competitions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“One concern in this regard is that the higher-than-normal frequency of matches may increase the risk of potential injuries due to a resulting player overload,” FIFA said in a statement.</p>

<p>“Each team would now be given the possibility to use up to five substitutions during the match, with the possibility of an additional substitution remaining during extra time, where relevant,” it explained.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ny-governor-wants-to-see-sports-teams-return-even-without-fans-295011" hreflang="en">NY governor wants to see sports teams return, even without fans</a></strong></p>

<p>FIFA further said that substitutions would need to make in a maximum of three slots. The temporary rule would apply to this season and next season plus all international matches until Dec. 31 next year.</p>

<p>FIFA said that “football should only resume when the health authorities and governments say it is absolutely safe and non-disruptive of health services being delivered to the populations.”<br />
&nbsp;</p>


A lot has been said and debated over the possible resumption of live football with many popular leagues considering starting the already halted season. However, there were major concerns that players may suffer constant injuries due to lack of preparation time and going straight into matches following a prolonged time away from the pitch.

A lot has been said and debated over the possible resumption of live football with many popular leagues considering starting the already halted season. However, there were major concerns that players may suffer constant injuries due to lack of preparation time and going straight into matches following a prolonged time away from the pitch. To tackle the injury concerns, FIFA has proposed that teams should be allowed to make up to five substitutions per game, instead of the usual three. The proposal by FIFA comes as a temporary measure to help football clubs cope with possible fixture congestion post the COVID-19 pandemic. UEFA along with many other football leagues and federations are hoping to complete the halted season but that would mean a crammed fixture list to complete the season in a short period of time. ALSO READ: Italy's PM delays Serie A restart decision The proposal of five substitutes would need to be approved by football’s rule-making organization – IFAB - and the final call would rest with the organisers of respective competitions. “One concern in this regard is that the higher-than-normal frequency of matches may increase the risk of potential injuries due to a resulting player overload,” FIFA said in a statement. “Each team would now be given the possibility to use up to five substitutions during the match, with the possibility of an additional substitution remaining during extra time, where relevant,” it explained. ALSO READ: NY governor wants to see sports teams return, even without fans FIFA further said that substitutions would need to make in a maximum of three slots. The temporary rule would apply to this season and next season plus all international matches until Dec. 31 next year. FIFA said that “football should only resume when the health authorities and governments say it is absolutely safe and non-disruptive of health services being delivered to the populations.”

A total of 5 substitutions per match? FIFA proposes temporary rule changes to reduce 'potential player overload' after resumption

<p>Pakistan batsman Umar Akmal has been banned from all forms of cricket by Chairman of the Disciplinary Panel, Justice (retired) Fazal-e-Miran Chauhan on Monday for breach of two anti-corruption code of Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).</p>

<p>Akmal has been banned from cricket for three years after the disciplinary committee ruled that the Pakistan batsman failed to report multiple approaches by corrupt elements while violating Article 2.4.4 of the PCB's code of conduct on two occasions.</p>

<p>PCB Director Anti-Corruption &amp; Security, Lt Col Asif Mahmood "PCB doesn’t take any pleasure in seeing a promising cricketer being declared ineligible for 3 years, but this is again a reminder to all who think they can get away by breaching the anti-corruption code"</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-is-not-war-should-be-played-between-india-and-pakistan-saqlain-mushtaq-throws-his-weight-behind-indo-pak-bilateral-series-295028" hreflang="en">Cricket is not war; should be played between India and Pakistan - Saqlain Mushtaq throws his weight behind Indo-Pak bilateral series</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Umar Akmal handed three-year ban from all cricket by Chairman of the Disciplinary Panel Mr Justice (retired) Fazal-e-Miran Chauhan.</p>
— PCB Media (@TheRealPCBMedia) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheRealPCBMedia/status/1254731556205334529?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>The PCB reportedly had Akmal confessing being in touch with bookies, on tape, which gave no other option to Akmal besides accepting the offence. Apparently, the PCB had confiscated Akmal’s mobile phone.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rcbs-virat-kohli-ab-de-villiers-put-memorabilia-from-ipl-2016-on-auction-to-raise-funds-in-battle-against-covid-19-295042" hreflang="en">RCB's Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers put memorabilia from IPL 2016 on auction to raise funds in battle against COVID-19</a></strong></p>

<p>Akmal accepting his mistake was expected to provide him with some relief in terms of the length of the ban similar to that of Mohammad Irfan. However, the three-year-ban has ended those expectations. His ban is effective from February 20, when he was provisionally suspended by the board under its anti-corruption code, which states a player must report being approached to fix games.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Article 2.4.4 of the code reads: “Failing to disclose to the PCB vigilance and security department (without unnecessary delay) full details of any approaches or invitations received by the participant to engage in corrupt conduct under this Anti-Corruption Code”.</p>


Pakistan batsman Umar Akmal has been banned from all forms of cricket by Chairman of the Disciplinary Panel, Justice (retired) Fazal-e-Miran Chauhan on Monday for breach of two anti-corruption code of Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

Pakistan batsman Umar Akmal has been banned from all forms of cricket by Chairman of the Disciplinary Panel, Justice (retired) Fazal-e-Miran Chauhan on Monday for breach of two anti-corruption code of Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). Akmal has been banned from cricket for three years after the disciplinary committee ruled that the Pakistan batsman failed to report multiple approaches by corrupt elements while violating Article 2.4.4 of the PCB's code of conduct on two occasions. PCB Director Anti-Corruption & Security, Lt Col Asif Mahmood "PCB doesn’t take any pleasure in seeing a promising cricketer being declared ineligible for 3 years, but this is again a reminder to all who think they can get away by breaching the anti-corruption code" ALSO READ: Cricket is not war; should be played between India and Pakistan - Saqlain Mushtaq throws his weight behind Indo-Pak bilateral series Umar Akmal handed three-year ban from all cricket by Chairman of the Disciplinary Panel Mr Justice (retired) Fazal-e-Miran Chauhan. — PCB Media (@TheRealPCBMedia) April 27, 2020 × The PCB reportedly had Akmal confessing being in touch with bookies, on tape, which gave no other option to Akmal besides accepting the offence. Apparently, the PCB had confiscated Akmal’s mobile phone. ALSO READ: RCB's Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers put memorabilia from IPL 2016 on auction to raise funds in battle against COVID-19 Akmal accepting his mistake was expected to provide him with some relief in terms of the length of the ban similar to that of Mohammad Irfan. However, the three-year-ban has ended those expectations. His ban is effective from February 20, when he was provisionally suspended by the board under its anti-corruption code, which states a player must report being approached to fix games. Article 2.4.4 of the code reads: “Failing to disclose to the PCB vigilance and security department (without unnecessary delay) full details of any approaches or invitations received by the participant to engage in corrupt conduct under this Anti-Corruption Code”.

Pakistan's Umar Akmal banned for 3 years from all forms of cricket for breaching anti-corruption code

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