Premier League clubs remain committed to finishing the top-flight season, but did not set a June 30 deadline to complete the fixture list at their latest meeting on Friday.

With the Premier League postponed since March 13 due to the coronavirus, it had been suggested a firm closing date for the season needed to be imposed.

But the 20 clubs did not discuss wrapping up the remaining 92 Premier League fixtures by June 30 when they met on a conference call with league chiefs.

With fears that failure to finish the season could cost the Premier League more than £1 billion ($1.2 billion), clubs looked at various models for a potential return to action.

However, Britain is on lockdown until May 7 at the earliest to limit the spread of the pandemic, leaving English football to play a waiting game in the hope of an improvement in the health crisis.

A Premier League spokesman said a number of complex scenarios were being worked through.

"We are actively engaging with stakeholders, including broadcast partners, and our aim is to ensure we are in a position to resume playing when it is safe to do so and with the full support of the government," added the spokesman.

"The health and wellbeing of players, coaches, managers, club staff and supporters are our priority and the league will only restart when medical guidance allows.

"Today's shareholders' meeting provided an opportunity to discuss possible scheduling models. It remains our objective to complete the 2019/20 season but at this stage all dates are tentative while the impact of COVID-19 develops."

Premier League clubs remain committed to finishing the top-flight season, but did not set a June 30 deadline to complete the fixture list at their latest meeting on Friday.

Premier League clubs remain committed to finishing the top-flight season, but did not set a June 30 deadline to complete the fixture list at their latest meeting on Friday. With the Premier League postponed since March 13 due to the coronavirus, it had been suggested a firm closing date for the season needed to be imposed. But the 20 clubs did not discuss wrapping up the remaining 92 Premier League fixtures by June 30 when they met on a conference call with league chiefs. With fears that failure to finish the season could cost the Premier League more than £1 billion ($1.2 billion), clubs looked at various models for a potential return to action. However, Britain is on lockdown until May 7 at the earliest to limit the spread of the pandemic, leaving English football to play a waiting game in the hope of an improvement in the health crisis. A Premier League spokesman said a number of complex scenarios were being worked through. "We are actively engaging with stakeholders, including broadcast partners, and our aim is to ensure we are in a position to resume playing when it is safe to do so and with the full support of the government," added the spokesman. "The health and wellbeing of players, coaches, managers, club staff and supporters are our priority and the league will only restart when medical guidance allows. "Today's shareholders' meeting provided an opportunity to discuss possible scheduling models. It remains our objective to complete the 2019/20 season but at this stage all dates are tentative while the impact of COVID-19 develops."

Premier League clubs committed to finishing season, but no deadline set

South Africa Cricket on Friday announced that former captain Graeme Smith will be taking over the role of director of cricket for a period of two-years. Smith was earlier appointed to the role in an interim capacity for a period of three months but now the former left-handed opener will take over the charge for two years.

Smith, as soon as being confirmed for the role, made a huge announcement that Quinton de Kock would not be leading the Proteas in Test cricket. While Smith didn’t announce any names for the role, the former South African skipper did hint that a youngster could potentially take over the charge in the longest format of the game.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-hope-we-learn-to-exercise-restraint-when-this-ends-viswanathan-anand-on-life-after-lockdown-being-stuck-in-germany-and-more-293205" hreflang="en">Exclusive: 'Hope we learn to exercise restraint when this ends' - Viswanathan Anand on life after lockdown, being stuck in Germany and more</a>

Explaining the decision, Smith said that the board doesn’t want to put too much pressure on de Kock and wants to keep him fresh and in-form. Smith further said that captaincy across formats is a gruelling task for a single player and the CSA wants the gloveman to be as expressive in all three formats without getting tired.

"The one thing I can confirm is that Quinton will be our white-ball captain and he won't be the Test captain going forward," Smith said. "We want to keep Quinton fresh and playing well. I've always believed, having been in the job myself, that captaining all three formats is challenging. We've seen a number of nations trying to figure out what's best and I think across three formats, it probably doesn't work."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-proposal-from-sri-lanka-cricket-to-host-ipl-2020-bcci-official-293147" hreflang="en">No proposal from Sri Lanka Cricket to host IPL 2020: BCCI official</a>

"From a workload and mental capacity, we felt that to burden him with all three formats wouldn't be beneficial for us. And with the style of personality and player that he is, we want to keep him as expressive as possible," Smith said.

While the South African team has lost too many experienced players in a short span of time, there are many players who are still fighting for places in the squad. That could make the task of appointing a captain trickier.&nbsp;

"We've got to understand the personalities, look at the people and maybe take a risk on someone potentially and back them," he said. "Coming from a person who a risk was taken on, it is something we would consider." 
&nbsp;

South Africa Cricket on Friday announced that former captain Graeme Smith will be taking over the role of director of cricket for a period of two-years. Smith was earlier appointed to the role in an interim capacity for a period of three months but now the former left-handed opener will take over the charge for two years.

South Africa Cricket on Friday announced that former captain Graeme Smith will be taking over the role of director of cricket for a period of two-years. Smith was earlier appointed to the role in an interim capacity for a period of three months but now the former left-handed opener will take over the charge for two years. Smith, as soon as being confirmed for the role, made a huge announcement that Quinton de Kock would not be leading the Proteas in Test cricket. While Smith didn’t announce any names for the role, the former South African skipper did hint that a youngster could potentially take over the charge in the longest format of the game. ALSO READ: Exclusive: 'Hope we learn to exercise restraint when this ends' - Viswanathan Anand on life after lockdown, being stuck in Germany and more Explaining the decision, Smith said that the board doesn’t want to put too much pressure on de Kock and wants to keep him fresh and in-form. Smith further said that captaincy across formats is a gruelling task for a single player and the CSA wants the gloveman to be as expressive in all three formats without getting tired. "The one thing I can confirm is that Quinton will be our white-ball captain and he won't be the Test captain going forward," Smith said. "We want to keep Quinton fresh and playing well. I've always believed, having been in the job myself, that captaining all three formats is challenging. We've seen a number of nations trying to figure out what's best and I think across three formats, it probably doesn't work." ALSO READ: No proposal from Sri Lanka Cricket to host IPL 2020: BCCI official "From a workload and mental capacity, we felt that to burden him with all three formats wouldn't be beneficial for us. And with the style of personality and player that he is, we want to keep him as expressive as possible," Smith said. While the South African team has lost too many experienced players in a short span of time, there are many players who are still fighting for places in the squad. That could make the task of appointing a captain trickier. "We've got to understand the personalities, look at the people and maybe take a risk on someone potentially and back them," he said. "Coming from a person who a risk was taken on, it is something we would consider."

Quinton de Kock won't be South Africa's captain in Test cricket, confirms Graeme Smith

Belarus is the only country in Europe still playing professional football matches with spectators in the stands. Even though the COVID-19 pandemic has led to a major shrunk in the live crowd, people are still heading to stadiums to watch their favourite football clubs in action. Empty seats could be a major turn off during football matches but the Belarusian clubs have found a way to hide those empty seats and fill it with fans – by placing dummies.&nbsp;

<img alt="Coronavirus outbreak: Belarus postpones women's soccer but men's league continues" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="69390980-37af-487e-9cda-ac5f3270b682" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1QK1NF.jpg" />

The start of women’s football season in Belarus has been delayed by fears that the players may have gotten exposed to the COVID-19 but the men’s league continues to drive in full flow. The women’s league was scheduled to start with the 2020 season on Thursday (April 16) but the Belarus soccer federation suspended it ‘until further notice’. The federation added that ‘several’ players had contact with ‘possible carries’ of the coronavirus.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/humour-most-important-in-getting-through-difficult-situations-says-james-neesham-293084" hreflang="en">Humour most important in getting through difficult situations, says James Neesham</a>

Dummies have replaced fans, face masks are being used to fulfil the emotions that a crowd brings with itself. But the question remains, is it worth risking the lives of possibly hundreds of people attending the game? What about the footballers, who may contract the virus?&nbsp;

<img alt="Coronavirus outbreak: Belarus postpones women's soccer but men's league continues" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ab10f897-dea0-4814-ba04-e4df318fbf78" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1QK1NT.jpg" />

Even though the Belarusian league has attracted fans from others countries in lockdown and signed new foreign TV deals, as per reports, does it really fulfil the void of absolutely no live sports during the time when millions of people are struggling to cope with the dreaded COVID-19, worldwide?&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/qatar-reports-three-new-virus-cases-at-world-cup-sites-293081" hreflang="en">Qatar reports three new virus cases at World Cup sites</a>

<img alt="Coronavirus outbreak: Belarus postpones women's soccer but men's league continues" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="be957170-4c7b-413a-a601-c6031fa465e3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1QK1N1.jpg" />

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has strictly opposed strict lockdown measures while playing an ice hockey game in front of spectators in the month of March. Whereas Sports and Tourism Minister Sergei Kovalchuk defended the move by saying that no one is forcing people to come and watch live matches.

<img alt="Coronavirus outbreak: Belarus postpones women's soccer but men's league continues" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="237e46b6-106e-4a53-a24d-fcc0dc4d2b67" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1QK1S8.jpg" />

“There is no basis to close down the championship. Nowadays, the number of fans has shrunk by more than 70 per cent," Kovalchuk said. "No one is forcing anyone to go to the stadium. You can go, or not go," Sports and Tourism Minister Kovalchuk said.

Belarus has recorded 4,779 cases of the COVID-19 as of Friday with 42 deaths. But as the bloodbath continues, the question remains, is holding sporting event&nbsp;really worth it, at the moment?

 
&nbsp;

Belarus is the only country in Europe still playing professional football matches with spectators in the stands. Even though the COVID-19 pandemic has led to a major shrunk in the live crowd, people are still heading to stadiums to watch their favourite football clubs in action.

Belarus is the only country in Europe still playing professional football matches with spectators in the stands. Even though the COVID-19 pandemic has led to a major shrunk in the live crowd, people are still heading to stadiums to watch their favourite football clubs in action. Empty seats could be a major turn off during football matches but the Belarusian clubs have found a way to hide those empty seats and fill it with fans – by placing dummies. The start of women’s football season in Belarus has been delayed by fears that the players may have gotten exposed to the COVID-19 but the men’s league continues to drive in full flow. The women’s league was scheduled to start with the 2020 season on Thursday (April 16) but the Belarus soccer federation suspended it ‘until further notice’. The federation added that ‘several’ players had contact with ‘possible carries’ of the coronavirus. ALSO READ: Humour most important in getting through difficult situations, says James Neesham Dummies have replaced fans, face masks are being used to fulfil the emotions that a crowd brings with itself. But the question remains, is it worth risking the lives of possibly hundreds of people attending the game? What about the footballers, who may contract the virus? Even though the Belarusian league has attracted fans from others countries in lockdown and signed new foreign TV deals, as per reports, does it really fulfil the void of absolutely no live sports during the time when millions of people are struggling to cope with the dreaded COVID-19, worldwide? ALSO READ: Qatar reports three new virus cases at World Cup sites Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has strictly opposed strict lockdown measures while playing an ice hockey game in front of spectators in the month of March. Whereas Sports and Tourism Minister Sergei Kovalchuk defended the move by saying that no one is forcing people to come and watch live matches. “There is no basis to close down the championship. Nowadays, the number of fans has shrunk by more than 70 per cent," Kovalchuk said. "No one is forcing anyone to go to the stadium. You can go, or not go," Sports and Tourism Minister Kovalchuk said. Belarus has recorded 4,779 cases of the COVID-19 as of Friday with 42 deaths. But as the bloodbath continues, the question remains, is holding sporting event really worth it, at the moment?

Fans and dummies: How Belarus is conducting live football matches amid COVID-19 pandemic

A senior official of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has dismissed the reports suggesting that Sri Lanka has proposed to host the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, which has been&nbsp;proposed ‘till further notice’ following Indian government’s move to extend the countrywide lockdown to the curb the spread of COVID-19.

The board official has said that the BCCI will not be in any position to say anything regarding IPL 2020 till lockdown doesn’t end. The official further confirmed that the BCCI has not received any proposal from the Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) and hence, no discussion has taken place on that matter.

“The BCCI will not be in a position to say anything when the world is closed,” a senior Board official told PTI on conditions of anonymity.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rcb-coach-simon-katich-open-to-ipl-2020-outside-india-says-its-one-of-many-scenarios-thats-being-discussed-293101" hreflang="en">RCB coach Simon Katich open to IPL 2020 outside India, says 'it’s one of many scenarios that’s being discussed'</a>

“There is no proposal from SLC yet and obviously no discussion,” the official on being asked about the BCCI’s stand when the offer is on table.

Earlier on Thursday, a report in Sri Lankan newspaper – Lankadeepa- suggested that Sri Lanka cricket president Shammi Silva had already written to the BCCI in what was a proposal to shift the 13th edition of IPL to Sri Lanka and that the country is ready to provide all facilities in consultation with the government and medical experts.

“Apparently it will cost the BCCI and its stakeholders more than $500 million to cancel the IPL. So perhaps they can minimise those losses by hosting the tournament in another country,” Silva was quoted as saying to Sinhala daily Lankadeepa.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/my-record-in-t20s-has-been-good-dinesh-karthik-confident-of-playing-in-icc-t20-world-cup-293110" hreflang="en">'My record in T20s has been good' - Dinesh Karthik confident of playing in ICC T20 World Cup</a>

“If they play it in Sri Lanka, it’s easy for Indian audiences to watch the games on TV. There’s precedent for this because they’ve played the IPL in South Africa before. We’re waiting for the Indian board to respond to our proposal,” he added.

Speculations are rife that the BCCI could look to the October-November window for the IPL if the ICC T20 World Cup is postponed.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

A senior official of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has dismissed the reports suggesting that Sri Lanka has proposed to host the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, which has been proposed ‘till further notice’ following Indian government’s move to extend the countrywide lockdown to the curb the spread of COVID-19.

A senior official of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has dismissed the reports suggesting that Sri Lanka has proposed to host the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, which has been proposed ‘till further notice’ following Indian government’s move to extend the countrywide lockdown to the curb the spread of COVID-19. The board official has said that the BCCI will not be in any position to say anything regarding IPL 2020 till lockdown doesn’t end. The official further confirmed that the BCCI has not received any proposal from the Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) and hence, no discussion has taken place on that matter. “The BCCI will not be in a position to say anything when the world is closed,” a senior Board official told PTI on conditions of anonymity. ALSO READ: RCB coach Simon Katich open to IPL 2020 outside India, says 'it’s one of many scenarios that’s being discussed' “There is no proposal from SLC yet and obviously no discussion,” the official on being asked about the BCCI’s stand when the offer is on table. Earlier on Thursday, a report in Sri Lankan newspaper – Lankadeepa- suggested that Sri Lanka cricket president Shammi Silva had already written to the BCCI in what was a proposal to shift the 13th edition of IPL to Sri Lanka and that the country is ready to provide all facilities in consultation with the government and medical experts. “Apparently it will cost the BCCI and its stakeholders more than $500 million to cancel the IPL. So perhaps they can minimise those losses by hosting the tournament in another country,” Silva was quoted as saying to Sinhala daily Lankadeepa. ALSO READ: 'My record in T20s has been good' - Dinesh Karthik confident of playing in ICC T20 World Cup “If they play it in Sri Lanka, it’s easy for Indian audiences to watch the games on TV. There’s precedent for this because they’ve played the IPL in South Africa before. We’re waiting for the Indian board to respond to our proposal,” he added. Speculations are rife that the BCCI could look to the October-November window for the IPL if the ICC T20 World Cup is postponed.

No proposal from Sri Lanka Cricket to host IPL 2020: BCCI official

Veteran Indian wrestler Babita Phogat has been on the line of fire for posting a couple of controversial tweets slamming the much-talked-about ‘Tablighi Jamaat’ and terming them as the reason behind the spread of COVID-19 in India. While Phogat has received support from many for her ‘on your face tweets’, others have slammed the wrestler while asking for the suspension of her Twitter account. Babita has received support from various athletes like her sister Geeta Phogat, Yogeshwar Dutt, Bajrang Punia, Manu Bhaker, among others. Whereas, many social media users termed her tweet as 'anti-muslim'.&nbsp;

Babita on Friday, reacted on the controversy as she took to social media platform Twitter to post a video, where the multi-time Commonwealth Games medallist stated&nbsp;that she is not afraid of speaking her heart. Phogat revealed she has been receiving threats and hate messages on various social media platforms following her tweets in the last couple of days.&nbsp;

The veteran wrestler, who won a gold medal in 2014 Commonwealth Games, clarified that she didn’t write anything about a particular religion or community and specifically mentioned ‘Tablighi Jamaat’ as she added "had it not been for them, India would have defeated the coronavirus pandemic."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-womens-hockey-team-to-raise-funds-for-poor-affected-by-lockdown-293091" hreflang="en">Indian women's hockey team to raise funds for poor affected by lockdown</a>

“My greetings to all my countrymen. I had posted a tweet few days ago after which many people have been sending me all sorts of messages on Facebook, Whatsapp and Twitter. Some people have also threatened me on the phone. My message to all those people is, I am not Zaira Wasim to get scared and sit at home. I am Babita Phogat – have always fought for my country and will continue to do so,” Babita said in the video.&nbsp;

“I would want to ask all of you – isn’t Tablighi Jamaat the most discussed topic at the moment. Aren’t they responsible for spreading Coronavirus in different parts of the country? I still stand by what I tweeted. I did not write about any religion or community. I have specifically written about Tablighi Jamaats, as if it had not been for them, not only would the lockdown have been lifted, but India would have defeated Coronavirus by now. So all those people who are not used to hearing the truth, they should learn to do so as I would continue to write what’s right and speak the truth,” she added.

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यदि आप बबीता फोगाट को सपोर्ट करते हैं तो उन तक यह बात जरूर पहुंचा दीजिए और उनको बोलिए ध्यान से कान खोल कर सुन लें। <a href="https://t.co/gqec3lQwPE">pic.twitter.com/gqec3lQwPE</a>
— Babita Phogat (@BabitaPhogat) <a href="https://twitter.com/BabitaPhogat/status/1251029745191448576?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, Babita took a sly dig at ‘Tablighi Jamaat’ as she wrote that coronavirus was India’s second-most critical issue as ‘Tablighi Jamaat’ has claimed the No. 1 spot.

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कोरोना वायरस भारत की दूसरे नंबर की सबसे बड़ी समस्या है। 
 
जाहिल जमाती अभी भी पहले नंबर पर बना हुआ है।<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/jahiljamati?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#jahiljamati</a>
— Babita Phogat (@BabitaPhogat) <a href="https://twitter.com/BabitaPhogat/status/1250390859717021697?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sri-lanka-ready-to-host-ipl-2020-will-provide-all-facilities-for-tournament-slc-to-bcci-292954" hreflang="en">Sri Lanka ready to host IPL 2020, will provide all facilities for tournament: SLC to BCCI</a>

The tweet by Babita went viral in no time as she received a mixed response. A couple of hashtags - #ISupportBabitaPhogat and #SuspendBabitaPhogat – were trending on Twitter as her tweets became a topic of heated discussion on the social media platform.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the death toll due to coronavirus rose to 437 and the number of cases to 13387 in the country on Friday, according to the Union Health Ministry. 
&nbsp;

Veteran Indian wrestler Babita Phogat has been on the line of fire for posting a couple of controversial tweets slamming the much-talked-about ‘Tablighi Jamaat’ and terming them as the reason behind the spread of COVID-19 in India.

Veteran Indian wrestler Babita Phogat has been on the line of fire for posting a couple of controversial tweets slamming the much-talked-about ‘Tablighi Jamaat’ and terming them as the reason behind the spread of COVID-19 in India. While Phogat has received support from many for her ‘on your face tweets’, others have slammed the wrestler while asking for the suspension of her Twitter account. Babita has received support from various athletes like her sister Geeta Phogat, Yogeshwar Dutt, Bajrang Punia, Manu Bhaker, among others. Whereas, many social media users termed her tweet as 'anti-muslim'. Babita on Friday, reacted on the controversy as she took to social media platform Twitter to post a video, where the multi-time Commonwealth Games medallist stated that she is not afraid of speaking her heart. Phogat revealed she has been receiving threats and hate messages on various social media platforms following her tweets in the last couple of days. The veteran wrestler, who won a gold medal in 2014 Commonwealth Games, clarified that she didn’t write anything about a particular religion or community and specifically mentioned ‘Tablighi Jamaat’ as she added "had it not been for them, India would have defeated the coronavirus pandemic." ALSO READ: Indian women's hockey team to raise funds for poor affected by lockdown “My greetings to all my countrymen. I had posted a tweet few days ago after which many people have been sending me all sorts of messages on Facebook, Whatsapp and Twitter. Some people have also threatened me on the phone. My message to all those people is, I am not Zaira Wasim to get scared and sit at home. I am Babita Phogat – have always fought for my country and will continue to do so,” Babita said in the video. “I would want to ask all of you – isn’t Tablighi Jamaat the most discussed topic at the moment. Aren’t they responsible for spreading Coronavirus in different parts of the country? I still stand by what I tweeted. I did not write about any religion or community. I have specifically written about Tablighi Jamaats, as if it had not been for them, not only would the lockdown have been lifted, but India would have defeated Coronavirus by now. So all those people who are not used to hearing the truth, they should learn to do so as I would continue to write what’s right and speak the truth,” she added. यदि आप बबीता फोगाट को सपोर्ट करते हैं तो उन तक यह बात जरूर पहुंचा दीजिए और उनको बोलिए ध्यान से कान खोल कर सुन लें। pic.twitter.com/gqec3lQwPE — Babita Phogat (@BabitaPhogat) April 17, 2020 × Earlier, Babita took a sly dig at ‘Tablighi Jamaat’ as she wrote that coronavirus was India’s second-most critical issue as ‘Tablighi Jamaat’ has claimed the No. 1 spot. कोरोना वायरस भारत की दूसरे नंबर की सबसे बड़ी समस्या है। जाहिल जमाती अभी भी पहले नंबर पर बना हुआ है।#jahiljamati — Babita Phogat (@BabitaPhogat) April 15, 2020 × ALSO READ: Sri Lanka ready to host IPL 2020, will provide all facilities for tournament: SLC to BCCI The tweet by Babita went viral in no time as she received a mixed response. A couple of hashtags - #ISupportBabitaPhogat and #SuspendBabitaPhogat – were trending on Twitter as her tweets became a topic of heated discussion on the social media platform. Meanwhile, the death toll due to coronavirus rose to 437 and the number of cases to 13387 in the country on Friday, according to the Union Health Ministry.

'I still stand by what I tweeted, not scared of threats' - Veteran wrestler Babita Phogat to critics

Known for his tongue-in-cheek take on life and cricket, New Zealand all-rounder Jimmy Neesham feels focussing on the funny side of things helps him cope with difficult situations like the COVID-19 pandemic currently sweeping through the world.

The coronavirus outbreak, which started in the Chinese city of Wuhan, has brought the entire world to a standstill. The deadly contagion has infected more than 20 lakh people while causing over one lakh deaths across the globe.

Asked about the role humour plays in handling difficulties, the Black Caps pacer, who keeps his fans entertained with witty one-liners on his social media accounts, said it is vital when the going gets tough.

"I think it's probably right out there, the most important one. The sport we play and the career I have had, there's plenty of downs and you've got to see the bright, funny side of it otherwise you'll just go into a dark hole," Neesham said on 'Inside my bubble' podcast.

"I'm certainly used to tough situations and this is another one. All things pass eventually and we should keep smiling and laughing and we'll all be in a better place and good to go once we come out the other side," he added.

Last month, New Zealand's ODI away series against Australia was called off after the first match and the visiting team was sent home owing to the fast-spreading virus.

Talking about the chain of events leading to the series being called off, the 29-year-old said he was amazed how quickly the situation changed.

"We were in Sydney for the ODI series and we joked about what was going on at the airport but the amount that it escalated to in the six-seven days was unbelievable.

"We played on Friday and on Saturday we were called for a meeting at two and by three we were on the bus to the airport. It was pretty quick and we were lucky to have reached home," Neesham said.

Before heading back home, the Black Caps played one ODI, which was held without any spectators.

"It was bizarre, totally different. At one point I was at long on and I could hear one security guard talking on his walkie talkie and I could also hear the voice of the other security guard on the other side of the ground. It was very strange," he recalled.

It's been little over nine months since New Zealand lost the ODI World Cup to England and the heartache of that narrow defeat still hasn't subsided, said Neesham.

Neesham scored 13 of the Black Caps' 15 runs in the dramatic tied Super Over at Lord's in July but was helpless at the other end as, with two needed to win off the final ball, Martin Guptill was run out to hand England the title on a boundary count-back.

"I thought it would soften over time but it hasn't. Maybe it will get better over the next few years," he said.

Known for his tongue-in-cheek take on life and cricket, New Zealand all-rounder Jimmy Neesham feels focussing on the funny side of things helps him cope with difficult situations like the COVID-19 pandemic currently sweeping through the world.

Known for his tongue-in-cheek take on life and cricket, New Zealand all-rounder Jimmy Neesham feels focussing on the funny side of things helps him cope with difficult situations like the COVID-19 pandemic currently sweeping through the world. The coronavirus outbreak, which started in the Chinese city of Wuhan, has brought the entire world to a standstill. The deadly contagion has infected more than 20 lakh people while causing over one lakh deaths across the globe. Asked about the role humour plays in handling difficulties, the Black Caps pacer, who keeps his fans entertained with witty one-liners on his social media accounts, said it is vital when the going gets tough. "I think it's probably right out there, the most important one. The sport we play and the career I have had, there's plenty of downs and you've got to see the bright, funny side of it otherwise you'll just go into a dark hole," Neesham said on 'Inside my bubble' podcast. "I'm certainly used to tough situations and this is another one. All things pass eventually and we should keep smiling and laughing and we'll all be in a better place and good to go once we come out the other side," he added. Last month, New Zealand's ODI away series against Australia was called off after the first match and the visiting team was sent home owing to the fast-spreading virus. Talking about the chain of events leading to the series being called off, the 29-year-old said he was amazed how quickly the situation changed. "We were in Sydney for the ODI series and we joked about what was going on at the airport but the amount that it escalated to in the six-seven days was unbelievable. "We played on Friday and on Saturday we were called for a meeting at two and by three we were on the bus to the airport. It was pretty quick and we were lucky to have reached home," Neesham said. Before heading back home, the Black Caps played one ODI, which was held without any spectators. "It was bizarre, totally different. At one point I was at long on and I could hear one security guard talking on his walkie talkie and I could also hear the voice of the other security guard on the other side of the ground. It was very strange," he recalled. It's been little over nine months since New Zealand lost the ODI World Cup to England and the heartache of that narrow defeat still hasn't subsided, said Neesham. Neesham scored 13 of the Black Caps' 15 runs in the dramatic tied Super Over at Lord's in July but was helpless at the other end as, with two needed to win off the final ball, Martin Guptill was run out to hand England the title on a boundary count-back. "I thought it would soften over time but it hasn't. Maybe it will get better over the next few years," he said.

Humour most important in getting through difficult situations, says James Neesham

The Indian women's hockey team on Friday launched a fun fitness challenge to raise funds for the migrant labourers whose families have been affected by the nationwide lockdown to combat the COVID-19 pandemic.

The 18-day challenge aims to raise money through crowdfunding to feed at least 1000 families while also encouraging people to adapt to an active lifestyle during the nationwide lockdown that has been extended till May 3.

"...Every day we are reading in the newspapers and social media about so many people struggling for food, we decided to do something to help these people as a team," captain Rani Rampal said in a Hockey India press release.

"...We thought an online fitness challenge would be the best way to do it and this way, we can also urge people to stay active during the nation-wide lockdown. Through this initiative, our goal is to raise enough funds to feed at least 1000 families," she said.

The money from the crowd-funding effort will be donated to a Delhi-based NGO Uday Foundation and the proceeds will be used to provide basic necessities for patients at various locations, migrant workers and slum dwellers.

Apart from providing food/dry ration, the fund will also be used to provide sanitary kits that will include soaps and hand sanitisers.

The challenge will see members of the Indian women's hockey team come up with fitness tasks that range from burpees, lunges, squats to spider-man pushups, pogo hops and more.

Each day, a player will give a new challenge and tag 10 people on her social media handles to take up the challenge and donate Rs. 100 for the cause.

"Everyday, we will give a fun new challenge that can be done by anybody. Those who take up the challenge can donate Rs 100 or more to the fundraiser. We really hope people support us in this cause, vice-captain Savita said.

"All of us in the Indian Women's Hockey Team come from poor economic backgrounds and we have seen days when we have struggled for food and other basics. Today we are in a position to help and we want to ensure poor people get basics like food and sanitary kits," she added.

Agreeing with Savita's views, Rani said, "A few days back when I was talking to my father and he said 'if you did not play hockey and lift us out of poverty then maybe we also would have been in the same condition as so many poor people today who are struggling to get food'.

"When he said this to me, it broke my heart. Everyone in the team has faced so many challenges due to poverty and we know the pain of not getting food. It's thanks to hockey our lives are comfortable today but not everyone is this fortunate."

Rani's father worked as a cart-puller in Shahbad Markanda, Haryana.&nbsp;

The Indian women's hockey team on Friday launched a fun fitness challenge to raise funds for the migrant labourers whose families have been affected by the nationwide lockdown to combat the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Indian women's hockey team on Friday launched a fun fitness challenge to raise funds for the migrant labourers whose families have been affected by the nationwide lockdown to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. The 18-day challenge aims to raise money through crowdfunding to feed at least 1000 families while also encouraging people to adapt to an active lifestyle during the nationwide lockdown that has been extended till May 3. "...Every day we are reading in the newspapers and social media about so many people struggling for food, we decided to do something to help these people as a team," captain Rani Rampal said in a Hockey India press release. "...We thought an online fitness challenge would be the best way to do it and this way, we can also urge people to stay active during the nation-wide lockdown. Through this initiative, our goal is to raise enough funds to feed at least 1000 families," she said. The money from the crowd-funding effort will be donated to a Delhi-based NGO Uday Foundation and the proceeds will be used to provide basic necessities for patients at various locations, migrant workers and slum dwellers. Apart from providing food/dry ration, the fund will also be used to provide sanitary kits that will include soaps and hand sanitisers. The challenge will see members of the Indian women's hockey team come up with fitness tasks that range from burpees, lunges, squats to spider-man pushups, pogo hops and more. Each day, a player will give a new challenge and tag 10 people on her social media handles to take up the challenge and donate Rs. 100 for the cause. "Everyday, we will give a fun new challenge that can be done by anybody. Those who take up the challenge can donate Rs 100 or more to the fundraiser. We really hope people support us in this cause, vice-captain Savita said. "All of us in the Indian Women's Hockey Team come from poor economic backgrounds and we have seen days when we have struggled for food and other basics. Today we are in a position to help and we want to ensure poor people get basics like food and sanitary kits," she added. Agreeing with Savita's views, Rani said, "A few days back when I was talking to my father and he said 'if you did not play hockey and lift us out of poverty then maybe we also would have been in the same condition as so many poor people today who are struggling to get food'. "When he said this to me, it broke my heart. Everyone in the team has faced so many challenges due to poverty and we know the pain of not getting food. It's thanks to hockey our lives are comfortable today but not everyone is this fortunate." Rani's father worked as a cart-puller in Shahbad Markanda, Haryana.

Indian women's hockey team to raise funds for poor affected by lockdown

Jacqueline Towns, the mother of Minnesota Timberwolves all-star Karl-Anthony Towns, died of COVID-19 on Monday after a weeks-long battle with the disease which has led to a worldwide pandemic.

The Towns' family made the announcement on Wednesday in a statement: "The Towns family is heartbroken by the untimely passing of Jacqueline Towns due to complications as a result of COVID-19.&nbsp;

"(She) had been battling the virus for more than a month when she succumbed to it."&nbsp;

The National Basketball Players Association expressed its sorrow for the family.

"Words cannot express the extreme sadness each of us feels at the news of the passing of Karl Anthony-Towns' loving Mother, Jacqueline Towns.&nbsp;

"Our hearts break for Karl and his family and we send them our love and support at this very difficult time."&nbsp;

Jackie Towns was placed in a medically induced coma on March 25, sparking her 24-year-old son to make a public plea, asking people to take the coronavirus and social distancing seriously.

The NBA shutdown on March 11 after Utah Jazz center Rudy Gobert tested positive for the coronavirus which has so far infected over 600,000 Americans, killing 28,000 of them.

Jacqueline Towns, the mother of Minnesota Timberwolves all-star Karl-Anthony Towns, died of COVID-19 on Monday after a weeks-long battle with the disease which has led to a worldwide pandemic.

Jacqueline Towns, the mother of Minnesota Timberwolves all-star Karl-Anthony Towns, died of COVID-19 on Monday after a weeks-long battle with the disease which has led to a worldwide pandemic. The Towns' family made the announcement on Wednesday in a statement: "The Towns family is heartbroken by the untimely passing of Jacqueline Towns due to complications as a result of COVID-19. "(She) had been battling the virus for more than a month when she succumbed to it." The National Basketball Players Association expressed its sorrow for the family. "Words cannot express the extreme sadness each of us feels at the news of the passing of Karl Anthony-Towns' loving Mother, Jacqueline Towns. "Our hearts break for Karl and his family and we send them our love and support at this very difficult time." Jackie Towns was placed in a medically induced coma on March 25, sparking her 24-year-old son to make a public plea, asking people to take the coronavirus and social distancing seriously. The NBA shutdown on March 11 after Utah Jazz center Rudy Gobert tested positive for the coronavirus which has so far infected over 600,000 Americans, killing 28,000 of them.

NBA star Karl-Anthony Towns' mother dies of Covid-19

The Premier League is set to meet on Friday with an increasing number of football clubs wanting the season to end by June 30 due to the rising concerns about players’ contracts. The top agenda of the meeting would be to find a way to conclude the 2019/20 season before June 30, which has been suspended since mid-March due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Many clubs are still supporting a conclusion of the season despite the UK struggling with the dreaded coronavirus. Thus far, around 90,000 positive cases have been reported from the UK but that hasn’t affected many clubs’ take to finish the season rather than declare it null and void.&nbsp;

The major reason behind the clubs wanting to end the season before June 30 is due to the contracts of players which will be ending in the month of June and out-of-contract and loan players may not want to extend their contract and simply walk away from the club.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bayern-star-suele-wary-of-bundesliga-returning-too-soon-292961" hreflang="en">Bayern star Suele wary of Bundesliga returning too soon</a>

One Premier League club owner said: "Some clubs want the season to finish by the end of June. How can it be fair for European places and relegation to be decided by depleted squads?”

However, no solid outcome is expected from the meeting on Friday as the season will only resume when the government deems it safe. Even if the league is resumed, the games are most likely to be played behind closed doors.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/postponed-tokyo-olympics-to-kickstart-japan-economy-ioc-292948" hreflang="en">Postponed Tokyo Olympics 'to kickstart' Japan economy: IOC</a>

One Premier League owner said: "The meeting will be about financial survival and if and when we play games or abandon the season. Sadly, the season could still be abandoned depending on government rules."

Most of the Premier League clubs have nine matches left to be played including the leaders Liverpool, who had a massive 25-point advantage before the league was suspended last month in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak in the UK. 
&nbsp;

The Premier League is set to meet on Friday with an increasing number of football clubs wanting the season to end by June 30 due to the rising concerns about players’ contracts.

The Premier League is set to meet on Friday with an increasing number of football clubs wanting the season to end by June 30 due to the rising concerns about players’ contracts. The top agenda of the meeting would be to find a way to conclude the 2019/20 season before June 30, which has been suspended since mid-March due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Many clubs are still supporting a conclusion of the season despite the UK struggling with the dreaded coronavirus. Thus far, around 90,000 positive cases have been reported from the UK but that hasn’t affected many clubs’ take to finish the season rather than declare it null and void. The major reason behind the clubs wanting to end the season before June 30 is due to the contracts of players which will be ending in the month of June and out-of-contract and loan players may not want to extend their contract and simply walk away from the club. ALSO READ: Bayern star Suele wary of Bundesliga returning too soon One Premier League club owner said: "Some clubs want the season to finish by the end of June. How can it be fair for European places and relegation to be decided by depleted squads?” However, no solid outcome is expected from the meeting on Friday as the season will only resume when the government deems it safe. Even if the league is resumed, the games are most likely to be played behind closed doors. ALSO READ: Postponed Tokyo Olympics 'to kickstart' Japan economy: IOC One Premier League owner said: "The meeting will be about financial survival and if and when we play games or abandon the season. Sadly, the season could still be abandoned depending on government rules." Most of the Premier League clubs have nine matches left to be played including the leaders Liverpool, who had a massive 25-point advantage before the league was suspended last month in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak in the UK.

Money over health? Premier League clubs set to meet as many teams push for June 30 season end

Rafael Nadal thinks the global nature of tennis means there is little chance tournaments will go ahead any time soon as sport continues to be paralysed by the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

Novak Djokovic also anticipates a lengthy delay before tennis can be played even behind closed doors, with the world number one expecting players to have to wait a "few months".&nbsp;

The French Open, which Nadal has won a record 12 times, has been postponed until September, shortly after the US Open, while Wimbledon was cancelled earlier this month for the first time since World War II.&nbsp;

But the prospect of either grand slams at Roland Garros or Flushing Meadows being played with fans appears increasingly remote.&nbsp;

"Tennis is a global sport," Nadal told Spanish radio station Onda Cero on Wednesday night. "We go from country to country and a lot of people have to move around.&nbsp;

"It seems difficult to me for any big tournament to be played in the short or medium term."&nbsp;

Football's major leagues are preparing to play behind closed doors for several weeks to complete their seasons and avoid losing considerable sums of money from broadcasting contracts.&nbsp;

But tennis tournaments are more reliant on fans for their income, making it more complicated to stage competitions in empty stadiums.

"It is not an easy decision," Djokovic told the same programme. "I am ready but I think we have to wait a few months."&nbsp;

"If you could play behind closed doors, I would be delighted but I think it's very difficult," added Nadal.&nbsp;

Rafael Nadal thinks the global nature of tennis means there is little chance tournaments will go ahead any time soon as sport continues to be paralysed by the coronavirus pandemic.

Rafael Nadal thinks the global nature of tennis means there is little chance tournaments will go ahead any time soon as sport continues to be paralysed by the coronavirus pandemic. Novak Djokovic also anticipates a lengthy delay before tennis can be played even behind closed doors, with the world number one expecting players to have to wait a "few months". The French Open, which Nadal has won a record 12 times, has been postponed until September, shortly after the US Open, while Wimbledon was cancelled earlier this month for the first time since World War II. But the prospect of either grand slams at Roland Garros or Flushing Meadows being played with fans appears increasingly remote. "Tennis is a global sport," Nadal told Spanish radio station Onda Cero on Wednesday night. "We go from country to country and a lot of people have to move around. "It seems difficult to me for any big tournament to be played in the short or medium term." Football's major leagues are preparing to play behind closed doors for several weeks to complete their seasons and avoid losing considerable sums of money from broadcasting contracts. But tennis tournaments are more reliant on fans for their income, making it more complicated to stage competitions in empty stadiums. "It is not an easy decision," Djokovic told the same programme. "I am ready but I think we have to wait a few months." "If you could play behind closed doors, I would be delighted but I think it's very difficult," added Nadal.

Rafael Nadal expecting lengthy wait before tennis returns

Germany and Bayern Munich defender Niklas Suele admits having mixed feelings about the possible return of German league football next month amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Next Thursday, the German Football League (DFL) plans to meet via video conference with the 36 clubs in the first two leagues to discuss whether matches can resume in early May.

As public events in Germany are banned until August 31, football matches before that date could only be played in near-empty stadiums with fans locked out.

If the German authorities give the green light, the Bundesliga could be the first top European league to resume since German league matches were halted on March 13.

Most of the 18 top flight clubs in Germany returned to training last week, albeit with social distancing being observed even on the pitch.

The DFL is determined to finish the season by June 30 to ensure its clubs do not lose out on crucial TV rights revenue, but Suele is sceptical.

"There are many more important things than football at the moment," the 24-year-old told AFP subsidiary SID.

"Of course I want to get fit and play again, but the important thing is that my family is well, that everyone is healthy.

"As football professionals, we are blessed when we see how many companies have to close or how hard some families are hit. That's bad.

"Whether we play sooner or later is irrelevant."

However, Suele admits he would be "very happy if we could start again. Maybe it would also be a little distraction for many fans".

Suele has returned to training after a serious knee injury last October, and acknowledges that his comeback will probably be in front of empty terraces.

"Of course, during rehab I imagined how nice it would be to run out at the sold-out Allianz Arena (Bayern's home ground) again," he said.

"Unfortunately, that's going to be a thing of the past, but I'd still be happy to be able to play with my team again."

In Germany, games played behind locked doors are called "ghost games" and Suele insists they are a better option than no matches at all.

"From my point of view, there's no player anyway who'd rather not play at all than have ghost games," he added.

Just over 3,500 people have so far died due to the coronavirus in Germany.

Germany and Bayern Munich defender Niklas Suele admits having mixed feelings about the possible return of German league football next month amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Germany and Bayern Munich defender Niklas Suele admits having mixed feelings about the possible return of German league football next month amid the coronavirus pandemic. Next Thursday, the German Football League (DFL) plans to meet via video conference with the 36 clubs in the first two leagues to discuss whether matches can resume in early May. As public events in Germany are banned until August 31, football matches before that date could only be played in near-empty stadiums with fans locked out. If the German authorities give the green light, the Bundesliga could be the first top European league to resume since German league matches were halted on March 13. Most of the 18 top flight clubs in Germany returned to training last week, albeit with social distancing being observed even on the pitch. The DFL is determined to finish the season by June 30 to ensure its clubs do not lose out on crucial TV rights revenue, but Suele is sceptical. "There are many more important things than football at the moment," the 24-year-old told AFP subsidiary SID. "Of course I want to get fit and play again, but the important thing is that my family is well, that everyone is healthy. "As football professionals, we are blessed when we see how many companies have to close or how hard some families are hit. That's bad. "Whether we play sooner or later is irrelevant." However, Suele admits he would be "very happy if we could start again. Maybe it would also be a little distraction for many fans". Suele has returned to training after a serious knee injury last October, and acknowledges that his comeback will probably be in front of empty terraces. "Of course, during rehab I imagined how nice it would be to run out at the sold-out Allianz Arena (Bayern's home ground) again," he said. "Unfortunately, that's going to be a thing of the past, but I'd still be happy to be able to play with my team again." In Germany, games played behind locked doors are called "ghost games" and Suele insists they are a better option than no matches at all. "From my point of view, there's no player anyway who'd rather not play at all than have ghost games," he added. Just over 3,500 people have so far died due to the coronavirus in Germany.

Bayern star Suele wary of Bundesliga returning too soon

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) is ready to host the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 after the 13th&nbsp;edition of the cash-rich tournament was suspended indefinitely by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday amid the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

The president of Sri Lanka Cricket – Shammi Silva – while speaking to Lankadeepa Newspaper – said that India is expected to have a look at the proposal by Sri Lanka to host IPL 2020. The SLC president cited the massive financial hit the BCCI will have to take if the IPL 2020 is not played due to the pandemic while adding that the Indian board can look at an alternative option as it did in the year 2009.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/official-ipl-2020-suspended-till-further-notice-amid-covid-19-pandemic-292914" hreflang="en">Official: IPL 2020 suspended till further notice amid COVID-19 pandemic</a>

Silva further said that it would be beneficial for the BCCI to hold the tournament in an overseas country as they did in 2009 (South Africa) rather than cancel the entire event. He added that Sri Lanka Cricket is ready to provide all the facilities necessary under the supervision of health authorities for the smooth conduction of IPL 2020.

“If IPL is called off, Indian Cricket board and IPL stakeholders will have to bear a loss of more than $500 Million. So, it will be beneficial for them to conduct the league in another country as they did in 2009 in South Africa,” Silva was quoted as saying.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-would-go-wider-of-the-crease-and-shoaib-akhtar-reveals-master-plan-to-dismiss-virat-kohli-292875" hreflang="en">'I would go wider of the crease and...' - Shoaib Akhtar reveals master-plan to dismiss Virat Kohli</a>

“If we get the go-ahead from them to this proposal, we are ready to provide all the facilities necessary under the supervision of Sri Lankan health authorities,” he added.

The SLC president further said that hosting IPL could be a welcome boost for the economy of Sri Lanka and its cricket board.

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) is ready to host the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 after the 13th edition of the cash-rich tournament was suspended indefinitely by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) is ready to host the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 after the 13th edition of the cash-rich tournament was suspended indefinitely by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The president of Sri Lanka Cricket – Shammi Silva – while speaking to Lankadeepa Newspaper – said that India is expected to have a look at the proposal by Sri Lanka to host IPL 2020. The SLC president cited the massive financial hit the BCCI will have to take if the IPL 2020 is not played due to the pandemic while adding that the Indian board can look at an alternative option as it did in the year 2009. ALSO READ: Official: IPL 2020 suspended till further notice amid COVID-19 pandemic Silva further said that it would be beneficial for the BCCI to hold the tournament in an overseas country as they did in 2009 (South Africa) rather than cancel the entire event. He added that Sri Lanka Cricket is ready to provide all the facilities necessary under the supervision of health authorities for the smooth conduction of IPL 2020. “If IPL is called off, Indian Cricket board and IPL stakeholders will have to bear a loss of more than $500 Million. So, it will be beneficial for them to conduct the league in another country as they did in 2009 in South Africa,” Silva was quoted as saying. ALSO READ: 'I would go wider of the crease and...' - Shoaib Akhtar reveals master-plan to dismiss Virat Kohli “If we get the go-ahead from them to this proposal, we are ready to provide all the facilities necessary under the supervision of Sri Lankan health authorities,” he added. The SLC president further said that hosting IPL could be a welcome boost for the economy of Sri Lanka and its cricket board.

Sri Lanka ready to host IPL 2020, will provide all facilities for tournament: SLC to BCCI

The postponement of 2020 Tokyo Olympics will provide an economic boost to the coronavirus-hit Japan in the year 2021, a senior International Olympic Committee (IOC) official claimed on Thursday as he said that conducting the Games in 2021 could be a "very positive opportunity for an economic stimulus" that could "kickstart the economy again." for the world’s third-largest economy – Japan.&nbsp;

With the deadly COVID-19 taking almost the entire world under its dreaded wings, the IOC and Japan, in the month of March, took the historic decision to postpone the Olympics by one year with the opening ceremony now scheduled to be held on July 23, 2021.

The COVID-19 pandemic has made a huge body blow to the global economy with economists predicting a second Great Depression with around $9 trillion wiped out.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/official-ipl-2020-suspended-till-further-notice-amid-covid-19-pandemic-292914" hreflang="en">Official: IPL 2020 suspended till further notice amid COVID-19 pandemic</a>

"I think there will be a lot of countries and cities around the world wishing for a similar opportunity," IOC official John Coates said.

Some economists have predicted that postponing the quadrennial Games by a year would reduce Japan’s GP by around $6 billion and that could be only recouped if the Olympics take place.&nbsp;

Coates claimed Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe "may well have had in mind that your country may be in a recession then and this would be an opportunity for a great economic stimulus".

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-took-many-moments-sitting-thinking-and-crying-coco-gauff-reveals-struggle-with-depression-and-extreme-pressure-292886" hreflang="en">'It took many moments sitting, thinking and crying': Coco Gauff reveals struggle with depression and extreme pressure</a>

Organisers had earlier said that the postponement of the Games would come major ramifications and there will be “massive” additional cost from the $12.6 billion the Games were supposed to cost-shared between the Japanese government, Tokyo 2020 and the host city.

Coates said that they would use the time in hand to look at a different way of reducing the additional costs.

Postponing the Olympics is an unprecedented task that starts with managing the venues, hotel bookings, volunteers, etc. Given the situation surrounding COVID-19 pandemic improves in coming months, then the Tokyo Olympics would not only come as a welcome event in the world of sports but would also help in reviving the Japanese economy, which has not only taken a hit due to the pandemic but also for the postponement of the Games. 
&nbsp;

The postponement of 2020 Tokyo Olympics will provide an economic boost to the coronavirus-hit Japan in the year 2021, a senior International Olympic Committee (IOC) official claimed on Thursday as he said that conducting the Games in 2021 could be a "very positive opportunity for an economic stimulus" that could "kickstart the economy again.

The postponement of 2020 Tokyo Olympics will provide an economic boost to the coronavirus-hit Japan in the year 2021, a senior International Olympic Committee (IOC) official claimed on Thursday as he said that conducting the Games in 2021 could be a "very positive opportunity for an economic stimulus" that could "kickstart the economy again." for the world’s third-largest economy – Japan. With the deadly COVID-19 taking almost the entire world under its dreaded wings, the IOC and Japan, in the month of March, took the historic decision to postpone the Olympics by one year with the opening ceremony now scheduled to be held on July 23, 2021. The COVID-19 pandemic has made a huge body blow to the global economy with economists predicting a second Great Depression with around $9 trillion wiped out. ALSO READ: Official: IPL 2020 suspended till further notice amid COVID-19 pandemic "I think there will be a lot of countries and cities around the world wishing for a similar opportunity," IOC official John Coates said. Some economists have predicted that postponing the quadrennial Games by a year would reduce Japan’s GP by around $6 billion and that could be only recouped if the Olympics take place. Coates claimed Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe "may well have had in mind that your country may be in a recession then and this would be an opportunity for a great economic stimulus". ALSO READ: 'It took many moments sitting, thinking and crying': Coco Gauff reveals struggle with depression and extreme pressure Organisers had earlier said that the postponement of the Games would come major ramifications and there will be “massive” additional cost from the $12.6 billion the Games were supposed to cost-shared between the Japanese government, Tokyo 2020 and the host city. Coates said that they would use the time in hand to look at a different way of reducing the additional costs. Postponing the Olympics is an unprecedented task that starts with managing the venues, hotel bookings, volunteers, etc. Given the situation surrounding COVID-19 pandemic improves in coming months, then the Tokyo Olympics would not only come as a welcome event in the world of sports but would also help in reviving the Japanese economy, which has not only taken a hit due to the pandemic but also for the postponement of the Games.

Postponed Tokyo Olympics 'to kickstart' Japan economy: IOC

Veteran table tennis player Sharath Kamal on Thursday surpassed compatriot G Sathiyan to become the highest-ranked Indian in the ITTF world rankings, jumping seven spots to reach 31.

The jump in the rankings comes after Sharath's triumph at the Oman Open last month, when he won his first ITTF title in 10 years.

"Some positive news, amidst all the negativity currently (due to the COVID-19 pandemic). Feels great actually. Just the news I needed while I find myself away from the game during this lockdown," an elated Sharath said.

His younger teammate Sathiyan dropped a place to be 32.

The fast-rising Mudit Dani also made notable progress in the rankings as he broke into the top-200 for the first time in his career.

Dani took a jump of nine places to claim the 200th position while Harmeet Desai (72), Anthony Amalraj (100) and Manav Thakkar (139) are the other Indian paddlers who have positioned themselves in the top-200.

In the women's rankings, Manika Batra is in the 63rd position while Sutirtha Mukherjee entered the top-100 for the first time. She jumped 14 spots to be 95th.

The ITTF rankings will now be frozen until the start of events. The ITTF has suspended all its events until June 30 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Veteran table tennis player Sharath Kamal on Thursday surpassed compatriot G Sathiyan to become the highest-ranked Indian in the ITTF world rankings, jumping seven spots to reach 31.

Veteran table tennis player Sharath Kamal on Thursday surpassed compatriot G Sathiyan to become the highest-ranked Indian in the ITTF world rankings, jumping seven spots to reach 31. The jump in the rankings comes after Sharath's triumph at the Oman Open last month, when he won his first ITTF title in 10 years. "Some positive news, amidst all the negativity currently (due to the COVID-19 pandemic). Feels great actually. Just the news I needed while I find myself away from the game during this lockdown," an elated Sharath said. His younger teammate Sathiyan dropped a place to be 32. The fast-rising Mudit Dani also made notable progress in the rankings as he broke into the top-200 for the first time in his career. Dani took a jump of nine places to claim the 200th position while Harmeet Desai (72), Anthony Amalraj (100) and Manav Thakkar (139) are the other Indian paddlers who have positioned themselves in the top-200. In the women's rankings, Manika Batra is in the 63rd position while Sutirtha Mukherjee entered the top-100 for the first time. She jumped 14 spots to be 95th. The ITTF rankings will now be frozen until the start of events. The ITTF has suspended all its events until June 30 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Sharath Kamal is highest-ranked Indian in ITTF world rankings, Suthirtha breaks into top-100

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday officially announced that the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 stands&nbsp;suspended till further notice due to the evolving global health concerns regarding the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

The increased suspension of IPL 2020 comes after the lockdown measures implemented by the Government of India to curb the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic which has wreaked havoc not only in India but across the world. After going through the current situation, the IPL Governing Council of the BCCI came to a conclusion that suspending the 13th edition of IPL, until further notice, is the best possible way to move forward.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-would-go-wider-of-the-crease-and-shoaib-akhtar-reveals-master-plan-to-dismiss-virat-kohli-292875" hreflang="en">'I would go wider of the crease and...' - Shoaib Akhtar reveals master-plan to dismiss Virat Kohli</a>

BCCI, in the statement released on Thursday, stated that the health and safety of the nation and everyone involved in the game remain its top priority while adding that franchise owners, broadcasters, sponsors and all the stakeholders came to a general conclusion that the tournament will only commence when it is safe to do so.

The Indian cricket board further stated that it will continue to monitor and review the situation regarding a possible start date and will continue to take guidance from the Government of India, State Governments and other State Regulatory bodies.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-australia-to-stand-down-all-but-skeleton-staff-from-april-27-until-end-of-the-financial-year-amid-covid-19-pandemic-292852" hreflang="en">Cricket Australia to stand down all but skeleton staff, from April 27 until end of the financial year amid COVID-19 pandemic</a>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">BCCI’s statement in full:</h2>

Due to the evolving global health concerns regarding COVID-19 and lockdown measures implemented by the Government of India to contain the spread of the pandemic, the IPL Governing Council of the BCCI has decided that the IPL 2020 Season will be suspended till further notice.&nbsp;

The health and safety of the nation and everyone involved in our great sport remains our top priority and as such, the BCCI along with the Franchise Owners, Broadcaster, Sponsors and all the Stakeholders acknowledge that the IPL 2020 season will only commence when it is safe and appropriate to do so.&nbsp;

BCCI will continue to monitor and review the situation regarding a potential start date in close partnership with all of its stakeholders and will continue to take guidance from the Government of India, State Governments and other State Regulatory bodies.&nbsp; 
<o:p></o:p>

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday officially announced that the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 stands suspended till further notice due to the evolving global health concerns regarding the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday officially announced that the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 stands suspended till further notice due to the evolving global health concerns regarding the COVID-19 pandemic. The increased suspension of IPL 2020 comes after the lockdown measures implemented by the Government of India to curb the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic which has wreaked havoc not only in India but across the world. After going through the current situation, the IPL Governing Council of the BCCI came to a conclusion that suspending the 13th edition of IPL, until further notice, is the best possible way to move forward. ALSO READ: 'I would go wider of the crease and...' - Shoaib Akhtar reveals master-plan to dismiss Virat Kohli BCCI, in the statement released on Thursday, stated that the health and safety of the nation and everyone involved in the game remain its top priority while adding that franchise owners, broadcasters, sponsors and all the stakeholders came to a general conclusion that the tournament will only commence when it is safe to do so. The Indian cricket board further stated that it will continue to monitor and review the situation regarding a possible start date and will continue to take guidance from the Government of India, State Governments and other State Regulatory bodies. ALSO READ: Cricket Australia to stand down all but skeleton staff, from April 27 until end of the financial year amid COVID-19 pandemic BCCI’s statement in full: Due to the evolving global health concerns regarding COVID-19 and lockdown measures implemented by the Government of India to contain the spread of the pandemic, the IPL Governing Council of the BCCI has decided that the IPL 2020 Season will be suspended till further notice. The health and safety of the nation and everyone involved in our great sport remains our top priority and as such, the BCCI along with the Franchise Owners, Broadcaster, Sponsors and all the Stakeholders acknowledge that the IPL 2020 season will only commence when it is safe and appropriate to do so. BCCI will continue to monitor and review the situation regarding a potential start date in close partnership with all of its stakeholders and will continue to take guidance from the Government of India, State Governments and other State Regulatory bodies.

Official: IPL 2020 suspended till further notice amid COVID-19 pandemic

American teenager Coco Gauff on Thursday revealed that she struggled with depression, for around a year, amid the extreme hype surrounding her and the mental pressure brought on by her rapid rise in the world of tennis. Gauff said that she had to rediscover herself and her love for the game after suffering from depression for almost a year.

The 16-year-old has taken the tennis world by storm due to her talent and sheer athleticism on the court. Gauff had enjoyed a splendid run since July 2019 when she qualified to the fourth round of Wimbledon in what was her first-ever major championship appearance.&nbsp;

Continuing her blistering rise in the tennis world, Gauff also reached the fourth round of Australian Open, on her debut, while breaking into the top 50 in the WTA rankings as she became the first 15-year-old old to achieve the feat in 15 years.&nbsp;

“Throughout my life, I was always the youngest to do things, which added hype that I didn’t want,” Gauff wrote in a post for Behind The Racquet.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-australia-to-stand-down-all-but-skeleton-staff-from-april-27-until-end-of-the-financial-year-amid-covid-19-pandemic-292852" hreflang="en">Cricket Australia to stand down all but skeleton staff, from April 27 until end of the financial year amid COVID-19 pandemic</a>

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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B--kAqng-fo/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Repost from @behindtheracquet “Throughout my life, I was always the youngest to do things, which added hype that I didn’t want. It added this pressure that I needed to do well fast. Once I let that all go, I started to have the results I wanted. Right before Wimbledon, going back to around 2017/18, I was struggling to figure out if this was really what I wanted. I always had the results so that wasn’t the issue, I just found myself not enjoying what I loved. I realized I needed to start playing for myself and not other people. For about a year I was really depressed. That was the toughest year for me so far. Even though I had, it felt like there weren’t many friends there for me. When you are in that dark mindset you don’t look on the bright side of things too often, which is the hardest part. I don’t think it had much to do with tennis, maybe just about juggling it all. I knew that I wanted to play tennis but didn’t know how I wanted to go about it. It went so far that I was thinking about possibly taking a year off to just focus on life. Choosing not to obviously was the right choice but I was close to not going in that direction. I was just lost. I was confused and overthinking if this was what I wanted or what others did. It took many moments sitting, thinking and crying. I came out of it stronger and knowing myself better than ever. Everyone asks me how I stay calm on court and I think it’s because I accepted who I am after overcoming low points in my life. Now, when I’m on court, I am just really thankful to be out there. Personally for me, I like playing for more than myself. One of the biggest things is to continue breaking barriers. At the same time I don’t like being compared to Serena or Venus. First, I am not at their level yet. I always feel like it’s not fair to the Williams sisters to be compared to someone who is just coming up. It just doesn’t feel right yet, I still look at them as my idols. With all their accolades I shouldn’t be put in the same group yet. Of course I hope to get to where they are but they are the two women that set the pathway for myself, which is why I can never be them.” @cocogauff Go to behindtheracquet.com for extended</a>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/cocogauff/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Coco Gauff</a> (@cocogauff) on <time datetime="2020-04-14T22:10:15+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Apr 14, 2020 at 3:10pm PDT</time>
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“It added this pressure that I needed to do well fast.

“Right before Wimbledon, going back to around 2017/18, I was struggling to figure out if this was really what I wanted. I always had the results so that wasn’t the issue, I just found myself not enjoying what I loved.

“I realised I needed to start playing for myself and not other people. For about a year I was really depressed. That was the toughest year for me so far.”

“Choosing not to obviously was the right choice but I was close to not going in that direction. I was just lost,” she said. “I was confused and overthinking if this was what I wanted or what others did.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-might-be-a-good-idea-to-look-at-quarantine-facility-for-olympic-hopefuls-pullela-gopichand-opens-up-on-postponed-games-and-more-292727" hreflang="en">Exclusive: 'Might be a good idea to look at quarantine facility for Olympic hopefuls' - Pullela Gopichand opens up on postponed Games and more</a>

“It took many moments sitting, thinking and crying. I came out of it stronger and knowing myself better than ever.”

Gauff has been hailed as a long-term successor to legend Serena Williams. Gauff stated that while she is getting used to being a role model for people, she doesn’t like being compared to Serena or her sister Venus.

Gauff said it is not fair to compare her with the Williams sister as she still looks at them as her idols.&nbsp;

“First, I am not at their level yet. I always feel like it’s not fair to the Williams sisters to be compared to someone who is just coming up,” she added.

“It just doesn’t feel right yet, I still look at them as my idols.

“Of course I hope to get to where they are but they are the two women that set the pathway for myself, which is why I can never be them.

“I would never have even thought about joining tennis, without them a part of it, since there were very few African Americans in the sport.”

American teenager Coco Gauff on Thursday revealed that she struggled with depression, for around a year, amid the extreme hype surrounding her and the mental pressure brought on by her rapid rise in the world of tennis.

American teenager Coco Gauff on Thursday revealed that she struggled with depression, for around a year, amid the extreme hype surrounding her and the mental pressure brought on by her rapid rise in the world of tennis. Gauff said that she had to rediscover herself and her love for the game after suffering from depression for almost a year. The 16-year-old has taken the tennis world by storm due to her talent and sheer athleticism on the court. Gauff had enjoyed a splendid run since July 2019 when she qualified to the fourth round of Wimbledon in what was her first-ever major championship appearance. Continuing her blistering rise in the tennis world, Gauff also reached the fourth round of Australian Open, on her debut, while breaking into the top 50 in the WTA rankings as she became the first 15-year-old old to achieve the feat in 15 years. “Throughout my life, I was always the youngest to do things, which added hype that I didn’t want,” Gauff wrote in a post for Behind The Racquet. ALSO READ: Cricket Australia to stand down all but skeleton staff, from April 27 until end of the financial year amid COVID-19 pandemic View this post on Instagram Repost from @behindtheracquet “Throughout my life, I was always the youngest to do things, which added hype that I didn’t want. It added this pressure that I needed to do well fast. Once I let that all go, I started to have the results I wanted. Right before Wimbledon, going back to around 2017/18, I was struggling to figure out if this was really what I wanted. I always had the results so that wasn’t the issue, I just found myself not enjoying what I loved. I realized I needed to start playing for myself and not other people. For about a year I was really depressed. That was the toughest year for me so far. Even though I had, it felt like there weren’t many friends there for me. When you are in that dark mindset you don’t look on the bright side of things too often, which is the hardest part. I don’t think it had much to do with tennis, maybe just about juggling it all. I knew that I wanted to play tennis but didn’t know how I wanted to go about it. It went so far that I was thinking about possibly taking a year off to just focus on life. Choosing not to obviously was the right choice but I was close to not going in that direction. I was just lost. I was confused and overthinking if this was what I wanted or what others did. It took many moments sitting, thinking and crying. I came out of it stronger and knowing myself better than ever. Everyone asks me how I stay calm on court and I think it’s because I accepted who I am after overcoming low points in my life. Now, when I’m on court, I am just really thankful to be out there. Personally for me, I like playing for more than myself. One of the biggest things is to continue breaking barriers. At the same time I don’t like being compared to Serena or Venus. First, I am not at their level yet. I always feel like it’s not fair to the Williams sisters to be compared to someone who is just coming up. It just doesn’t feel right yet, I still look at them as my idols. With all their accolades I shouldn’t be put in the same group yet. Of course I hope to get to where they are but they are the two women that set the pathway for myself, which is why I can never be them.” @cocogauff Go to behindtheracquet.com for extended A post shared by Coco Gauff (@cocogauff) on Apr 14, 2020 at 3:10pm PDT × “It added this pressure that I needed to do well fast. “Right before Wimbledon, going back to around 2017/18, I was struggling to figure out if this was really what I wanted. I always had the results so that wasn’t the issue, I just found myself not enjoying what I loved. “I realised I needed to start playing for myself and not other people. For about a year I was really depressed. That was the toughest year for me so far.” “Choosing not to obviously was the right choice but I was close to not going in that direction. I was just lost,” she said. “I was confused and overthinking if this was what I wanted or what others did. ALSO READ: Exclusive: 'Might be a good idea to look at quarantine facility for Olympic hopefuls' - Pullela Gopichand opens up on postponed Games and more “It took many moments sitting, thinking and crying. I came out of it stronger and knowing myself better than ever.” Gauff has been hailed as a long-term successor to legend Serena Williams. Gauff stated that while she is getting used to being a role model for people, she doesn’t like being compared to Serena or her sister Venus. Gauff said it is not fair to compare her with the Williams sister as she still looks at them as her idols. “First, I am not at their level yet. I always feel like it’s not fair to the Williams sisters to be compared to someone who is just coming up,” she added. “It just doesn’t feel right yet, I still look at them as my idols. “Of course I hope to get to where they are but they are the two women that set the pathway for myself, which is why I can never be them. “I would never have even thought about joining tennis, without them a part of it, since there were very few African Americans in the sport.”

'It took many moments sitting, thinking and crying': Coco Gauff reveals struggle with depression and extreme pressure

Virat Kohli is regarded as one of the finest batsmen of all-time due to his sheer consistency and piles of records and runs. The Indian skipper has been termed as the greatest ever, across formats, by many experts. Kohli is known for his dominating nature of batting and has uncountable times dominated bowlers to win matches for India or in the Indian Premier League (IPL).&nbsp;

Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar came up with a plan to dismiss Kohli as he said if he was bowling, he would go wider of the crease while pitching the ball up to take it away from the Indian skipper in a bid to make him drive.&nbsp;

Akhtar continued, jokingly, that if his plan A doesn’t work then he will bowl to Kohli at 150 kmph to get swashbuckling Indian batsman out. Earlier, Akhtar had termed Kohli as ‘modern-day Bradman’.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wasnt-in-condition-to-play-2015-wc-semis-but-dhoni-said-cant-go-to-any-other-bowler-mohammed-shami-292860" hreflang="en">Wasn't in condition to play 2015 WC semis but Dhoni said can't go to any other bowler: Mohammed Shami</a>

“If I was bowling, I would go wider of the crease and pitch the ball up [to Kohli] and shape it away from him in order to make him drive.”

“If that does not work, I will bowl him at 150 [kph] and he will get out,” Akhtar was quoted as saying in a video on Instagram Live.

Akhtar also recalled his highly-popular duel with Sachin Tendulkar as he called the Master Blaster one of the greatest batsmen of all-time while adding that he had a good time bowling to Tendulkar. Akhtar said he dismissed Tendulkar 12-13 times in his career but Indian fans only remember that memorable upper-cut six in the 2003 World Cup.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-australia-to-stand-down-all-but-skeleton-staff-from-april-27-until-end-of-the-financial-year-amid-covid-19-pandemic-292852" hreflang="en">Cricket Australia to stand down all but skeleton staff from April 27 until end of the financial year amid COVID-19 pandemic</a>

Akhtar also spoke about his duel with Sachin Tendulkar and said: “I had a good time bowling to Sachin Tendulkar. He is one of the greatest batsmen of all-time but I dismissed him 12-13 times as well.”

“Although, Indians only remember that one six which he hit me in Centurion [during the 2003 ICC World Cup] as it makes them really happy,” he added.

“If I had known that one six makes 1.3 billion people happy, then I would have let him hit me for a six every day,” he added, talking about his camaraderie with Sachin.”&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Virat Kohli is regarded as one of the finest batsmen of all-time due to his sheer consistency and piles of records and runs. The Indian skipper has been termed as the greatest ever, across formats, by many experts.

Virat Kohli is regarded as one of the finest batsmen of all-time due to his sheer consistency and piles of records and runs. The Indian skipper has been termed as the greatest ever, across formats, by many experts. Kohli is known for his dominating nature of batting and has uncountable times dominated bowlers to win matches for India or in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar came up with a plan to dismiss Kohli as he said if he was bowling, he would go wider of the crease while pitching the ball up to take it away from the Indian skipper in a bid to make him drive. Akhtar continued, jokingly, that if his plan A doesn’t work then he will bowl to Kohli at 150 kmph to get swashbuckling Indian batsman out. Earlier, Akhtar had termed Kohli as ‘modern-day Bradman’. ALSO READ: Wasn't in condition to play 2015 WC semis but Dhoni said can't go to any other bowler: Mohammed Shami “If I was bowling, I would go wider of the crease and pitch the ball up [to Kohli] and shape it away from him in order to make him drive.” “If that does not work, I will bowl him at 150 [kph] and he will get out,” Akhtar was quoted as saying in a video on Instagram Live. Akhtar also recalled his highly-popular duel with Sachin Tendulkar as he called the Master Blaster one of the greatest batsmen of all-time while adding that he had a good time bowling to Tendulkar. Akhtar said he dismissed Tendulkar 12-13 times in his career but Indian fans only remember that memorable upper-cut six in the 2003 World Cup. ALSO READ: Cricket Australia to stand down all but skeleton staff from April 27 until end of the financial year amid COVID-19 pandemic Akhtar also spoke about his duel with Sachin Tendulkar and said: “I had a good time bowling to Sachin Tendulkar. He is one of the greatest batsmen of all-time but I dismissed him 12-13 times as well.” “Although, Indians only remember that one six which he hit me in Centurion [during the 2003 ICC World Cup] as it makes them really happy,” he added. “If I had known that one six makes 1.3 billion people happy, then I would have let him hit me for a six every day,” he added, talking about his camaraderie with Sachin.”

'I would go wider of the crease and...' - Shoaib Akhtar reveals master-plan to dismiss Virat Kohli

Cricket Australia (CA) on Thursday announced that it will be standing down most of their staff amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The Australian cricket board released a statement where the apex body of the country said that they will be standing down all but a skeleton staff as part of their financial plans during the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

The COVID-19 pandemic has left the sporting calendar shattered with absolutely no live-action. Sportspersons have been restricted to train indoors with uncertainty over the resumption of sports. While Cricket Australia said that they are planning for a return to training or live-action, no one is certain when it will be possible, at this stage. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Notably, staffs were already on a reduced pay but now they all will be without any job from April 27 until the remainder of the financial year. The Australian board further mentioned that they are actively seeking advice from medical experts and government agencies for the resumption of play.&nbsp;The Australian financial year starts from July 1 and ends on June 30.

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“The impacts on the sports industry of the coronavirus pandemic are bigger than any one sport. Cricket Australia - like all sporting bodies - is planning for a return to training/play although no one is certain when this will be possible at this stage, any many scenarios are being considered,” the Cricket Australia statement read.

“We are conscious of the impact this will have on Australian Cricket and are working hard to manage that proactively.

“We have made the decision during this period of isolation, where activity has naturally been reduced, to stand down our people on reduced pay (with the exception of a skeleton staff) effective 27 April for the remainder of the financial year,” the statement added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/use-charter-flights-and-bring-players-early-brad-hogg-reckons-icc-t20-world-cup-shouldnt-be-cancelled-292629" hreflang="en">'Use charter flights and bring players early' - Brad Hogg reckons ICC T20 World Cup shouldn't be cancelled</a>

“We will continue to seek advice from medical experts and relevant government agencies to ensure the health and safety of our people, volunteers and communities, and to return to business as soon as possible,” it concluded.

With Australia going under a complete lockdown for six months, there is major uncertainty on whether the ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled to be played in October-November takes place as planned. The speculations are rife that the showpiece event could be postponed and the decision by Cricket Australia to stand down most of their staff adds nothing but fuel to the fire.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Cricket Australia (CA) on Thursday announced that it will be standing down most of their staff amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The Australian cricket board released a statement where the apex body of the country said that they will be standing down all but a skeleton staff as part of their financial plans during the coronavirus pandemic.

Cricket Australia (CA) on Thursday announced that it will be standing down most of their staff amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The Australian cricket board released a statement where the apex body of the country said that they will be standing down all but a skeleton staff as part of their financial plans during the coronavirus pandemic. The COVID-19 pandemic has left the sporting calendar shattered with absolutely no live-action. Sportspersons have been restricted to train indoors with uncertainty over the resumption of sports. While Cricket Australia said that they are planning for a return to training or live-action, no one is certain when it will be possible, at this stage. Notably, staffs were already on a reduced pay but now they all will be without any job from April 27 until the remainder of the financial year. The Australian board further mentioned that they are actively seeking advice from medical experts and government agencies for the resumption of play. The Australian financial year starts from July 1 and ends on June 30. ALSO READ: NBA star Karl-Anthony Towns' mother dies of Covid-19 “The impacts on the sports industry of the coronavirus pandemic are bigger than any one sport. Cricket Australia - like all sporting bodies - is planning for a return to training/play although no one is certain when this will be possible at this stage, any many scenarios are being considered,” the Cricket Australia statement read. “We are conscious of the impact this will have on Australian Cricket and are working hard to manage that proactively. “We have made the decision during this period of isolation, where activity has naturally been reduced, to stand down our people on reduced pay (with the exception of a skeleton staff) effective 27 April for the remainder of the financial year,” the statement added. ALSO READ: 'Use charter flights and bring players early' - Brad Hogg reckons ICC T20 World Cup shouldn't be cancelled “We will continue to seek advice from medical experts and relevant government agencies to ensure the health and safety of our people, volunteers and communities, and to return to business as soon as possible,” it concluded. With Australia going under a complete lockdown for six months, there is major uncertainty on whether the ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled to be played in October-November takes place as planned. The speculations are rife that the showpiece event could be postponed and the decision by Cricket Australia to stand down most of their staff adds nothing but fuel to the fire.

Cricket Australia to stand down all but skeleton staff, from April 27 until end of the financial year amid COVID-19 pandemic

A serious knee injury had left Mohammed Shami virtually immobile prior to India's 2015 World Cup semi-final against Australia but skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni's assertion that he "can't be replaced" in a big game spurred the pacer to take the field with painkillers.

The knee injury with which he was forced to play that semi-final in Sydney could have been career-threatening as he had to undergo a surgery and after March 26, 2015, the next international game he played was a Test in July, 2016.

"Before the semi-final I had told my teammates that I couldn't take it any longer. On the day of the match, I had a lot of pain. I discussed it with the management but they said it will be alright," Shami told former India pacer Irfan Pathan during an instagram chat.

"Mahi bhai, the team management gave me so much confidence. They said it's the semifinal we cannot go for a new bowler," Shami recalled.

In fact, Shami carrying an injury was the worst kept secret during India's World Cup campaign in Australia. He e would land up at training sessions with a heavily bandaged knee and play matches after taking pain-killing injections and fluid removed from the knee.

"I had knee injury during the 2015 World Cup. I couldn't walk after the matches I played throughout the tournament with the injury. I played the 2015 WC because of Nitin Patel's confidence," Shami said.

"The knee broke in the first match itself. My thighs and knees were the same size, doctors used to take out fluid from them everyday. I used to take 3 painkillers," Shami told Pathan.

"I bowled the first 5 overs and gave away about 13 runs with a wicket. I beat Finch and Warner's bats but couldn't get the edge. So I went off after telling Mahi bhai."

It was Dhoni, who kept telling Shami that he could overcome the pain barrier.

"The condition was very bad even after I took an injection. I told Mahi bhai that I cannot bowl because I cannot run any longer. But he told me I trust you, any other part-timer will also go for runs."

The target he was given was not more than 60 runs in 10 overs and he finished wicket-less for 68 runs in his quota of overs.

The match is remembered for Steve Smith's fine hundred and how the famed Indian batting collapsed on the big day.

"He (Dhoni) just told me don't give away more than 60 runs. I hadn't played in a worse condition than that. Some said my career was over, some said I shouldn't have played. But touchwood I'm still here now in front of you all," Shami said.

A serious knee injury had left Mohammed Shami virtually immobile prior to India's 2015 World Cup semi-final against Australia but skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni's assertion that he "can't be replaced" in a big game spurred the pacer to take the field with painkillers.

A serious knee injury had left Mohammed Shami virtually immobile prior to India's 2015 World Cup semi-final against Australia but skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni's assertion that he "can't be replaced" in a big game spurred the pacer to take the field with painkillers. The knee injury with which he was forced to play that semi-final in Sydney could have been career-threatening as he had to undergo a surgery and after March 26, 2015, the next international game he played was a Test in July, 2016. "Before the semi-final I had told my teammates that I couldn't take it any longer. On the day of the match, I had a lot of pain. I discussed it with the management but they said it will be alright," Shami told former India pacer Irfan Pathan during an instagram chat. "Mahi bhai, the team management gave me so much confidence. They said it's the semifinal we cannot go for a new bowler," Shami recalled. In fact, Shami carrying an injury was the worst kept secret during India's World Cup campaign in Australia. He e would land up at training sessions with a heavily bandaged knee and play matches after taking pain-killing injections and fluid removed from the knee. "I had knee injury during the 2015 World Cup. I couldn't walk after the matches I played throughout the tournament with the injury. I played the 2015 WC because of Nitin Patel's confidence," Shami said. "The knee broke in the first match itself. My thighs and knees were the same size, doctors used to take out fluid from them everyday. I used to take 3 painkillers," Shami told Pathan. "I bowled the first 5 overs and gave away about 13 runs with a wicket. I beat Finch and Warner's bats but couldn't get the edge. So I went off after telling Mahi bhai." It was Dhoni, who kept telling Shami that he could overcome the pain barrier. "The condition was very bad even after I took an injection. I told Mahi bhai that I cannot bowl because I cannot run any longer. But he told me I trust you, any other part-timer will also go for runs." The target he was given was not more than 60 runs in 10 overs and he finished wicket-less for 68 runs in his quota of overs. The match is remembered for Steve Smith's fine hundred and how the famed Indian batting collapsed on the big day. "He (Dhoni) just told me don't give away more than 60 runs. I hadn't played in a worse condition than that. Some said my career was over, some said I shouldn't have played. But touchwood I'm still here now in front of you all," Shami said.

Wasn't in condition to play 2015 WC semis but Dhoni said can't go to any other bowler: Mohammed Shami

PGA of America chief executive Seth Waugh said Tuesday that organizers are considering multiple scenarios for the US PGA Championship now scheduled for August 6-9 in San Francisco.

Waugh, in an interview on SiriusXM radio, said the first option would be to play the tournament as currently scheduled at Harding Park.

A second option would be to hold the first major championship of the year there but without spectators and a potential third option would be to move it to another location should play in California prove impossible.

The tournament has already been postponed from May as the coronavirus pandemic up-ended the golfing calendar along with the rest of the sports world.

Under the revamped plans agreed by golf's governing bodies, the US PGA Championship in August would be followed by the US Open in September and the Masters at Augusta National in November. The British Open has been cancelled.

"The plan is to do it as normally as possible, with fans, obviously, and have a fairly normal PGA Championship at Harding Park," Waugh said.

"If the safest way, and/or the only way to do it is without fans, we're fully prepared to do that. We believe that having it as a television event is worth doing regardless of whether there's fans there or not.

"Obviously, that'll change the experience, but we think the world is starved for some entertainment, and particularly in sports."

California Governor Gavin Newsom said this month that he does not anticipate having crowds at sporting events in the state this year.

Waugh said that if California or San Francisco City authorities decide the tournament can't be held at Harding Park, the PGA could try to find an alternate venue.

"It makes it simpler if there aren't any fans to think about things like that," he said. "We don't certainly have a plan C right now, but we'd be prepared to think about that if that became a possibility.

"We're going to do everything we can to play the PGA Championship this year."&nbsp;

PGA of America chief executive Seth Waugh said Tuesday that organizers are considering multiple scenarios for the US PGA Championship now scheduled for August 6-9 in San Francisco.

PGA of America chief executive Seth Waugh said Tuesday that organizers are considering multiple scenarios for the US PGA Championship now scheduled for August 6-9 in San Francisco. Waugh, in an interview on SiriusXM radio, said the first option would be to play the tournament as currently scheduled at Harding Park. A second option would be to hold the first major championship of the year there but without spectators and a potential third option would be to move it to another location should play in California prove impossible. The tournament has already been postponed from May as the coronavirus pandemic up-ended the golfing calendar along with the rest of the sports world. Under the revamped plans agreed by golf's governing bodies, the US PGA Championship in August would be followed by the US Open in September and the Masters at Augusta National in November. The British Open has been cancelled. "The plan is to do it as normally as possible, with fans, obviously, and have a fairly normal PGA Championship at Harding Park," Waugh said. "If the safest way, and/or the only way to do it is without fans, we're fully prepared to do that. We believe that having it as a television event is worth doing regardless of whether there's fans there or not. "Obviously, that'll change the experience, but we think the world is starved for some entertainment, and particularly in sports." California Governor Gavin Newsom said this month that he does not anticipate having crowds at sporting events in the state this year. Waugh said that if California or San Francisco City authorities decide the tournament can't be held at Harding Park, the PGA could try to find an alternate venue. "It makes it simpler if there aren't any fans to think about things like that," he said. "We don't certainly have a plan C right now, but we'd be prepared to think about that if that became a possibility. "We're going to do everything we can to play the PGA Championship this year."

Officials 'fully prepared' for PGA Championship without fans

West Ham manager David Moyes fears a rash of injuries to players should there be a desperate rush to complete the Premier League season if the coronavirus relents sufficiently to allow the resumption of football. &nbsp;

The Premier League has now ditched plans to get back underway at the start of May and a further complication is that a number of players will be out of contract in June.

It has been suggested that clubs may need to play up to three games a week in order to finish this season before the 2020/21 campaign gets going.

Moyes would prefer a four-week build-up on the training ground before the current Premier League season resumes, should lockdown restrictions be relaxed and the Hammers boss fears the consequences if, as seems likely, clubs have less preparation time.&nbsp;

"I think that four weeks would be ideal. But I think three weeks will be the maximum we get," Moyes told beIN Sports on Tuesday.

"Everybody's now talking about the injuries we're liable to pick up either during the three-week preparation time or during the period where it looks like we'll have to play an awful lot of games in a short period of time."

West Ham are only above the relegation zone on goal difference but Moyes, in his second spell in charge of the east London club, was optimistic about their long-term prospects.

"I want to build a new, energetic, young team and I think we've just started that," said the 56-year-old Scottish boss.

"With the signings we've brought in January, trying to freshen it up and given us a lot more youthfulness and direction."

West Ham manager David Moyes fears a rash of injuries to players should there be a desperate rush to complete the Premier League season if the coronavirus relents sufficiently to allow the resumption of football.

West Ham manager David Moyes fears a rash of injuries to players should there be a desperate rush to complete the Premier League season if the coronavirus relents sufficiently to allow the resumption of football. The Premier League has now ditched plans to get back underway at the start of May and a further complication is that a number of players will be out of contract in June. It has been suggested that clubs may need to play up to three games a week in order to finish this season before the 2020/21 campaign gets going. Moyes would prefer a four-week build-up on the training ground before the current Premier League season resumes, should lockdown restrictions be relaxed and the Hammers boss fears the consequences if, as seems likely, clubs have less preparation time. "I think that four weeks would be ideal. But I think three weeks will be the maximum we get," Moyes told beIN Sports on Tuesday. "Everybody's now talking about the injuries we're liable to pick up either during the three-week preparation time or during the period where it looks like we'll have to play an awful lot of games in a short period of time." West Ham are only above the relegation zone on goal difference but Moyes, in his second spell in charge of the east London club, was optimistic about their long-term prospects. "I want to build a new, energetic, young team and I think we've just started that," said the 56-year-old Scottish boss. "With the signings we've brought in January, trying to freshen it up and given us a lot more youthfulness and direction."

Hammers boss David Moyes fears injury pile-up if Premier League resumes

India, Australia, England and South Africa have qualified for the ICC Women’s World Cup 2021, scheduled to be hosted by New Zealand, the ICC said in a media release.&nbsp;All four teams have qualified for the showpiece event after ICC Women’s Championship Technical Committee decided that the teams will share points in all three series of the ICC Women’s Championship that could not be played during the competition window.&nbsp;

All eight teams in the 2018-2020 cycle of the ICC Women’s Championship play each other in a three-match series. While India versus Pakistan series could not be played after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) said that it failed to obtain necessary government clearance to allow India to play a bilateral series against Pakistan, South Africa versus Australia and Sri Lanka versus New Zealand series were cancelled due to COVID-19 pandemic.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-are-unreliable-cant-resume-cricket-with-them-anytime-soon-pcb-chairman-ehsan-mani-on-indo-pak-bilateral-series-292639" hreflang="en">'India are unreliable, can't resume cricket with them anytime soon' - PCB chairman Ehsan Mani on Indo-Pak bilateral series</a>

The host of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2021, i.e, New Zealand had automatically qualified for the marquee event but they will see the next four highest-placed teams on the points table qualify directly for the tournament.

Australia (37 points), England (29), South Africa (25) and now India (23) have qualified by virtue of being the top four. Pakistan (19), New Zealand (17), West Indies (13) and Sri Lanka (5) complete the table.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-is-mother-of-all-world-cups-and-13-billion-people-are-in-it-to-win-it-ravi-shastri-on-indias-fight-against-covid-19-pandemic-292622" hreflang="en">This is mother of all World Cups and 1.3 billion people are in it to win it: Ravi shastri on India's fight against COVID-19 pandemic</a>

The ICC Women’s World Cup 2021 Qualifier is scheduled to be hosted by Sri Lanka from July 3 to 19 but the matches are subject to review due to the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

The likes of Sri Lanka, Pakistan, West Indies, Bangladesh and Ireland, along with the winners of five regional qualifiers - Thailand (Asia), Zimbabwe (Africa), Papua New Guinea (East Asia Pacific), United States of America (Americas) and Netherlands (Europe) – will battle it out for the three remaining places in the ICC Women’s World Cup 2021. 
&nbsp;

India, Australia, England and South Africa have qualified for the ICC Women’s World Cup 2021, scheduled to be hosted by New Zealand, the ICC said in a media release.

India, Australia, England and South Africa have qualified for the ICC Women’s World Cup 2021, scheduled to be hosted by New Zealand, the ICC said in a media release. All four teams have qualified for the showpiece event after ICC Women’s Championship Technical Committee decided that the teams will share points in all three series of the ICC Women’s Championship that could not be played during the competition window. All eight teams in the 2018-2020 cycle of the ICC Women’s Championship play each other in a three-match series. While India versus Pakistan series could not be played after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) said that it failed to obtain necessary government clearance to allow India to play a bilateral series against Pakistan, South Africa versus Australia and Sri Lanka versus New Zealand series were cancelled due to COVID-19 pandemic. ALSO READ: 'India are unreliable, can't resume cricket with them anytime soon' - PCB chairman Ehsan Mani on Indo-Pak bilateral series The host of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2021, i.e, New Zealand had automatically qualified for the marquee event but they will see the next four highest-placed teams on the points table qualify directly for the tournament. Australia (37 points), England (29), South Africa (25) and now India (23) have qualified by virtue of being the top four. Pakistan (19), New Zealand (17), West Indies (13) and Sri Lanka (5) complete the table. ALSO READ: This is mother of all World Cups and 1.3 billion people are in it to win it: Ravi shastri on India's fight against COVID-19 pandemic The ICC Women’s World Cup 2021 Qualifier is scheduled to be hosted by Sri Lanka from July 3 to 19 but the matches are subject to review due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The likes of Sri Lanka, Pakistan, West Indies, Bangladesh and Ireland, along with the winners of five regional qualifiers - Thailand (Asia), Zimbabwe (Africa), Papua New Guinea (East Asia Pacific), United States of America (Americas) and Netherlands (Europe) – will battle it out for the three remaining places in the ICC Women’s World Cup 2021.

India qualify for ICC Women's World Cup 2021 as ICC splits points for cancelled series

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ehsan Mani has stated that Pakistan will not compromise with the Asia Cup 2020, scheduled to be played in the month of September, to create a window for the postponed Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020. Mani has said the decision doesn’t solely lie with India or Pakistan as it involves other countries as well while adding the revenue from the tournament is distributed among members of Asian Cricket Council (ACC) for the development of Asian cricket.&nbsp;

Speculation is rife that the BCCI is looking for an alternate window later in the year to conduct IPL 2020 which could led to the postponement of Asia Cup or ICC T20 World Cup due to the travel restrictions imposed to curb the spread of the dreaded coronavirus.

“I have read and heard about these speculations but right now just remember that having or not having the Asia Cup is not a decision between Pakistan and India it involves other countries as well,” asserted Mani on Tuesday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-are-unreliable-cant-resume-cricket-with-them-anytime-soon-pcb-chairman-ehsan-mani-on-indo-pak-bilateral-series-292639" hreflang="en">'India are unreliable, can't resume cricket with them anytime soon' - PCB chairman Ehsan Mani on Indo-Pak bilateral series</a>

"...it is important to have the Asia Cup if cricket activities resume by then because the development of Asian cricket depends on funding from the tournament. It is important for many countries who are members of the Asian Cricket Council,” he added in a podcast released by the PCB.

“But if the conditions change and we can have the Asia Cup, it must be held as earnings from it are distributed as development funds to member countries for next two years,” he said.

Speaking of ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled to be hosted by Australia in October-November 2020, Mani said many countries would feel the financial impact if the showpiece tournament isn’t held. Mani further said that the PCB was supposed to get 7-8 million dollars from the ICC in June but the devastating effect of COVID-19 pandemic could mean they might not receive the money as planned.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/use-charter-flights-and-bring-players-early-brad-hogg-reckons-icc-t20-world-cup-shouldnt-be-cancelled-292629" hreflang="en">'Use charter flights and bring players early' - Brad Hogg reckons ICC T20 World Cup shouldn't be cancelled</a>

“The financial impact will be felt by many countries if the ICC can’t distribute their shares from the tournament. Many countries including Pakistan will feel the pinch,” he admitted. Mani confirmed that Pakistan was to receive around USD 7 to 8 million in June and January.

“Pakistan is fortunate it has good financial controls in place and in short term, it will be better off than most countries if the lockdowns continue because of the coronavirus pandemic,” he claimed.

“We are to get 7 to 8 Million dollars from the ICC in June but we know they might not come so we have planned accordingly,” he added. 
&nbsp;

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ehsan Mani has stated that Pakistan will not compromise with the Asia Cup 2020, scheduled to be played in the month of September, to create a window for the postponed Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020.

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ehsan Mani has stated that Pakistan will not compromise with the Asia Cup 2020, scheduled to be played in the month of September, to create a window for the postponed Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020. Mani has said the decision doesn’t solely lie with India or Pakistan as it involves other countries as well while adding the revenue from the tournament is distributed among members of Asian Cricket Council (ACC) for the development of Asian cricket. Speculation is rife that the BCCI is looking for an alternate window later in the year to conduct IPL 2020 which could led to the postponement of Asia Cup or ICC T20 World Cup due to the travel restrictions imposed to curb the spread of the dreaded coronavirus. “I have read and heard about these speculations but right now just remember that having or not having the Asia Cup is not a decision between Pakistan and India it involves other countries as well,” asserted Mani on Tuesday. ALSO READ: 'India are unreliable, can't resume cricket with them anytime soon' - PCB chairman Ehsan Mani on Indo-Pak bilateral series "...it is important to have the Asia Cup if cricket activities resume by then because the development of Asian cricket depends on funding from the tournament. It is important for many countries who are members of the Asian Cricket Council,” he added in a podcast released by the PCB. “But if the conditions change and we can have the Asia Cup, it must be held as earnings from it are distributed as development funds to member countries for next two years,” he said. Speaking of ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled to be hosted by Australia in October-November 2020, Mani said many countries would feel the financial impact if the showpiece tournament isn’t held. Mani further said that the PCB was supposed to get 7-8 million dollars from the ICC in June but the devastating effect of COVID-19 pandemic could mean they might not receive the money as planned. ALSO READ: 'Use charter flights and bring players early' - Brad Hogg reckons ICC T20 World Cup shouldn't be cancelled “The financial impact will be felt by many countries if the ICC can’t distribute their shares from the tournament. Many countries including Pakistan will feel the pinch,” he admitted. Mani confirmed that Pakistan was to receive around USD 7 to 8 million in June and January. “Pakistan is fortunate it has good financial controls in place and in short term, it will be better off than most countries if the lockdowns continue because of the coronavirus pandemic,” he claimed. “We are to get 7 to 8 Million dollars from the ICC in June but we know they might not come so we have planned accordingly,” he added.

Won't compromise with Asia Cup to accommodate IPL 2020: PCB chairman Ehsan Mani

Former India batsman VVS Laxman hit back at claims by former Australian captain Michael Clarke that Australian players were ‘too scared’ of sledging Virat Kohli and other Indian players and ‘sucked’ up to them in the last Test series between the two sides.&nbsp;

Laxman has said that just being nice to someone doesn’t get you a spot in IPL while adding franchises look to players who can add calibre and value to the squad. The former Test specialist further said that being friendly with Indian players doesn’t mean you are getting picked for the IPL.&nbsp;

"Just by being nice to someone doesn't get you a place in IPL," Laxman, who also mentors IPL team Sunrisers Hyderabad told host broadcasters of IPL on its show 'Cricket Connected'.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wont-compromise-with-asia-cup-to-accomodate-ipl-2020-pcb-chairman-ehsan-mani-292665" hreflang="en">Won't compromise with Asia Cup to accomodate IPL 2020: PCB chairman Ehsan Mani</a>

"Any franchise will look at the player's calibre and value add to the team, which gives them desired results by winning matches/tournaments. These are the kind of players who get IPL contracts. So just being nice to someone will not earn you a spot in the IPL."

Laxman, who is also the mentor of Sunrisers Hyderabad, gave a perspective straight from the auction table as he said that when a team selects players they think of how they have played for their country in the past or in other cricket leagues.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-are-unreliable-cant-resume-cricket-with-them-anytime-soon-pcb-chairman-ehsan-mani-on-indo-pak-bilateral-series-292639" hreflang="en">'India are unreliable, can't resume cricket with them anytime soon' - PCB chairman Ehsan Mani on Indo-Pak bilateral series</a>

"If you're friendly with any Indian player it doesn't mean that you are getting IPL contract. As a mentor, I'm on the auction table and we select players, those international players that have played exceptionally well for their country and can add value to the franchise.

"Friendship with any Indian player doesn't ensure entry into the IPL," Laxman, who amassed 8,781 Test runs, said without mincing any words. 
Meanwhile, IPL 2020 is set to be postponed indefinitely due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the increased lockdown phase imposed by the government to curb the spread of the deadly coronavirus. 
&nbsp;

Former India batsman VVS Laxman hit back at claims by former Australian captain Michael Clarke that Australian players were ‘too scared’ of sledging Virat Kohli and other Indian players and ‘sucked’ up to them in the last Test series between the two sides.

Former India batsman VVS Laxman hit back at claims by former Australian captain Michael Clarke that Australian players were ‘too scared’ of sledging Virat Kohli and other Indian players and ‘sucked’ up to them in the last Test series between the two sides. Laxman has said that just being nice to someone doesn’t get you a spot in IPL while adding franchises look to players who can add calibre and value to the squad. The former Test specialist further said that being friendly with Indian players doesn’t mean you are getting picked for the IPL. "Just by being nice to someone doesn't get you a place in IPL," Laxman, who also mentors IPL team Sunrisers Hyderabad told host broadcasters of IPL on its show 'Cricket Connected'. ALSO READ: Won't compromise with Asia Cup to accomodate IPL 2020: PCB chairman Ehsan Mani "Any franchise will look at the player's calibre and value add to the team, which gives them desired results by winning matches/tournaments. These are the kind of players who get IPL contracts. So just being nice to someone will not earn you a spot in the IPL." Laxman, who is also the mentor of Sunrisers Hyderabad, gave a perspective straight from the auction table as he said that when a team selects players they think of how they have played for their country in the past or in other cricket leagues. ALSO READ: 'India are unreliable, can't resume cricket with them anytime soon' - PCB chairman Ehsan Mani on Indo-Pak bilateral series "If you're friendly with any Indian player it doesn't mean that you are getting IPL contract. As a mentor, I'm on the auction table and we select players, those international players that have played exceptionally well for their country and can add value to the franchise. "Friendship with any Indian player doesn't ensure entry into the IPL," Laxman, who amassed 8,781 Test runs, said without mincing any words. Meanwhile, IPL 2020 is set to be postponed indefinitely due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the increased lockdown phase imposed by the government to curb the spread of the deadly coronavirus.

'Just being nice doesn't guarantee a place in IPL' - VVX Laxman hits back at Michael Clarke's statement

Tottenham legend Jimmy Greaves has been released from hospital after being admitted due to illness last week.

Spurs' record goalscorer suffered a severe stroke in 2015 that has left him wheelchair-bound.

Tottenham confirmed last week he had not suffered another stroke nor had he been diagnosed with coronavirus.

"We are delighted to let you all know that Jimmy is now back at home recuperating with his wife Irene," said a statement on the former England striker's Facebook page.

"He has been very ill and we are hoping he will be fine going forward."

Greaves, who scored 266 times for Tottenham, began his career at Chelsea and also had spells at West Ham and AC Milan.

With 44 goals in 57 games for England, he is fourth on his country's all-time goalscoring charts behind Wayne Rooney, Bobby Charlton and Gary Lineker.

He was part of England's 1966 World Cup-winning squad, but suffered an injury during the group stage and did not play in the 4-2 final win over West Germany.

"Thanks to the thousands of you that have sent goodwill messages," added the statement.

"We love that so many of you still hold Jimmy so dear to your hearts and it's lovely to know that there is still so much love for him in the world."

Tottenham legend Jimmy Greaves has been released from hospital after being admitted due to illness last week. Spurs' record goalscorer suffered a severe stroke in 2015 that has left him wheelchair-bound.

Tottenham legend Jimmy Greaves has been released from hospital after being admitted due to illness last week. Spurs' record goalscorer suffered a severe stroke in 2015 that has left him wheelchair-bound. Tottenham confirmed last week he had not suffered another stroke nor had he been diagnosed with coronavirus. "We are delighted to let you all know that Jimmy is now back at home recuperating with his wife Irene," said a statement on the former England striker's Facebook page. "He has been very ill and we are hoping he will be fine going forward." Greaves, who scored 266 times for Tottenham, began his career at Chelsea and also had spells at West Ham and AC Milan. With 44 goals in 57 games for England, he is fourth on his country's all-time goalscoring charts behind Wayne Rooney, Bobby Charlton and Gary Lineker. He was part of England's 1966 World Cup-winning squad, but suffered an injury during the group stage and did not play in the 4-2 final win over West Germany. "Thanks to the thousands of you that have sent goodwill messages," added the statement. "We love that so many of you still hold Jimmy so dear to your hearts and it's lovely to know that there is still so much love for him in the world."

Tottenham legend Jimmy Greaves out of hospital

The Tour de France will take place from August 29 to September 20, organisers announced on Wednesday, postponing the race originally slated to start on June 27 due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The new dates, the latest ever for the Tour founded in 1903, follow French President Emmanuel Macron's extension on Monday of a ban on public gatherings until mid-July.

While the news comes as a relief to professional cycling teams and fans, it moves the three-week race out of its traditional slot during the summer holidays where festive roadside crowds of around 12 million would be expected.

The Tour de France will take place from August 29 to September 20, organisers announced on Wednesday, postponing the race originally slated to start on June 27 due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The Tour de France will take place from August 29 to September 20, organisers announced on Wednesday, postponing the race originally slated to start on June 27 due to the coronavirus pandemic. The new dates, the latest ever for the Tour founded in 1903, follow French President Emmanuel Macron's extension on Monday of a ban on public gatherings until mid-July. While the news comes as a relief to professional cycling teams and fans, it moves the three-week race out of its traditional slot during the summer holidays where festive roadside crowds of around 12 million would be expected.

Tour de France postponed to August 29-September 20

The COVID-19 pandemic has ripped apart the sporting calendar with every tournament either cancelled or postponed. All eyes are on the forthcoming ICC T20 World Cup, which is scheduled to be hosted by Australia in October-November. While the speculations are rife that the showpiece event might get deferred as Australia’s border has been closed for six months in a bid to curb the spread of the dreaded coronavirus.&nbsp;

With borders closed and lockdown in place, former Australian spinner Brad Hogg has come up with a solution to conduct the T20 World Cup as planned. Hogg has said that by using charter flights, players can be brought into Australia a couple of months earlier while adding the players can remain in quarantine for two weeks before resuming their training for the tournament.

Hogg took to social media platform Twitter to post a video explaining his solution for the conduction of the showpiece event.&nbsp;

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Big question: what happens to this year's T20 World Cup? Begins in around 6 months. Cancel it? Or just go ahead as planned? Time to talk about that on today's episode of Hogg's Vlog. 
 
Your thoughts on this matter? Let me know in the comments below. Let's discuss! <a href="https://t.co/Ih0r2VNRe6">pic.twitter.com/Ih0r2VNRe6</a>
— Brad Hogg (@Brad_Hogg) <a href="https://twitter.com/Brad_Hogg/status/1250272637332230145?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-is-mother-of-all-world-cups-and-13-billion-people-are-in-it-to-win-it-ravi-shastri-on-indias-fight-against-covid-19-pandemic-292622" hreflang="en">This is mother of all World Cups and 1.3 billion people are in it to win it: Ravi shastri on India's fight against COVID-19 pandemic</a>

"We have to play the T20 World Cup as it is planned. A lot of players internationally have been in lockdown and they have not been able to go out and train. We have to get them in Australia probably a month and a half earlier," Hogg said.

"There are no commercial flights, so we need to use charter flights. Each participant who will board the charter flights needs to be tested for coronavirus, if they pass the test, they come to Australia.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-helping-as-many-as-possible-mohammed-shami-narrates-emotional-story-of-migrant-workers-in-lockdown-phase-292615" hreflang="en">Watch: 'Helping as many as possible' - Mohammed Shami narrates emotional story of migrant workers in lockdown phase</a>

"When they arrive in Australia, they will be quarantined for two weeks and then they will be tested again. Once they pass it, they can train and play the tournament," he added.

With the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 set to be postponed indefinitely, speculations are rife that the cash-rich tournament could be planned in place of T20 World Cup given the tournament gets postponed travel restrictions in place. 
&nbsp;

The COVID-19 pandemic has ripped apart the sporting calendar with every tournament either cancelled or postponed. All eyes are on the forthcoming ICC T20 World Cup, which is scheduled to be hosted by Australia in October-November.

The COVID-19 pandemic has ripped apart the sporting calendar with every tournament either cancelled or postponed. All eyes are on the forthcoming ICC T20 World Cup, which is scheduled to be hosted by Australia in October-November. While the speculations are rife that the showpiece event might get deferred as Australia’s border has been closed for six months in a bid to curb the spread of the dreaded coronavirus. With borders closed and lockdown in place, former Australian spinner Brad Hogg has come up with a solution to conduct the T20 World Cup as planned. Hogg has said that by using charter flights, players can be brought into Australia a couple of months earlier while adding the players can remain in quarantine for two weeks before resuming their training for the tournament. Hogg took to social media platform Twitter to post a video explaining his solution for the conduction of the showpiece event. Big question: what happens to this year's T20 World Cup? Begins in around 6 months. Cancel it? Or just go ahead as planned? Time to talk about that on today's episode of Hogg's Vlog. Your thoughts on this matter? Let me know in the comments below. Let's discuss! pic.twitter.com/Ih0r2VNRe6 — Brad Hogg (@Brad_Hogg) April 15, 2020 × ALSO READ: This is mother of all World Cups and 1.3 billion people are in it to win it: Ravi shastri on India's fight against COVID-19 pandemic "We have to play the T20 World Cup as it is planned. A lot of players internationally have been in lockdown and they have not been able to go out and train. We have to get them in Australia probably a month and a half earlier," Hogg said. "There are no commercial flights, so we need to use charter flights. Each participant who will board the charter flights needs to be tested for coronavirus, if they pass the test, they come to Australia. ALSO READ: Watch: 'Helping as many as possible' - Mohammed Shami narrates emotional story of migrant workers in lockdown phase "When they arrive in Australia, they will be quarantined for two weeks and then they will be tested again. Once they pass it, they can train and play the tournament," he added. With the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 set to be postponed indefinitely, speculations are rife that the cash-rich tournament could be planned in place of T20 World Cup given the tournament gets postponed travel restrictions in place.

'Use charter flights and bring players early' - Brad Hogg reckons ICC T20 World Cup shouldn't be cancelled

Since 2012-13, India haven’t locked horns with Pakistan, in bilateral cricket series, due to the sour diplomatic relations between the two countries. While India and Pakistan have clashed in ICC tournaments and Asia Cups, bilateral series are on complete hold between the two arch-rivals. The Chairman of Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Ehsan Mani has now accused India of being “unreliable” while stating that they can’t rely on cricket series between India and Pakistan resuming anytime in the foreseeable future.

Mani said that even though not having bilateral series against India have cost Pakistan but claimed that due to India backing out of plans in the past, they haven’t included the arch-rivals in their plans while adding playing them in ICC events is fine. &nbsp;

“Our position is clear that we don’t want politics mixing with cricket. India in the past backed out of its commitment and that’s why we aren’t including them in our plans,” the PCB boss stated.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/in-time-of-no-cricket-rob-moody-keeping-the-game-alive-292479" hreflang="en">In time of no cricket, Rob Moody keeping the game alive</a>

"Not having the India series costs us but we're not thinking about that. India are unreliable. We can't rely on cricket resuming with them anytime in the foreseeable future. If it happens, well, we face them in ICC events, which is fine.”

Speculations are rife that India may find a window for the postponed Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 in the same period when Asia Cup 2020 is scheduled to be hosted, by Pakistan, in September 2020. However, Mani rejected all the reports as he said that Asia Cup is not about India or

Pakistan as the revenue generated from the tournament goes into the development of the sport in associate members.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-is-mother-of-all-world-cups-and-13-billion-people-are-in-it-to-win-it-ravi-shastri-on-indias-fight-against-covid-19-pandemic-292622" hreflang="en">This is mother of all World Cups and 1.3 billion people are in it to win it: Ravi shastri on India's fight against COVID-19 pandemic</a>

He further said that nothing has been decided on where the Asia Cup 2020 will be hosted as things are uncertain at this point due to COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

“Asia Cup is not about Pakistan and India; it is about Asian countries. The revenue generated from the Cup is invested in the development of the sport in our associate members,” he said.

“We haven’t decided when and where the tournament will be held. Things at this point are uncertain and that’s why we haven’t discussed much. But once things are finalised, it won’t be difficult for ACC to stage it. 
&nbsp;

Since 2012-13, India haven’t locked horns with Pakistan, in bilateral cricket series, due to the sour diplomatic relations between the two countries. While India and Pakistan have clashed in ICC tournaments and Asia Cups, bilateral series are on complete hold between the two arch-rivals.

Since 2012-13, India haven’t locked horns with Pakistan, in bilateral cricket series, due to the sour diplomatic relations between the two countries. While India and Pakistan have clashed in ICC tournaments and Asia Cups, bilateral series are on complete hold between the two arch-rivals. The Chairman of Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Ehsan Mani has now accused India of being “unreliable” while stating that they can’t rely on cricket series between India and Pakistan resuming anytime in the foreseeable future. Mani said that even though not having bilateral series against India have cost Pakistan but claimed that due to India backing out of plans in the past, they haven’t included the arch-rivals in their plans while adding playing them in ICC events is fine. “Our position is clear that we don’t want politics mixing with cricket. India in the past backed out of its commitment and that’s why we aren’t including them in our plans,” the PCB boss stated. ALSO READ: In time of no cricket, Rob Moody keeping the game alive "Not having the India series costs us but we're not thinking about that. India are unreliable. We can't rely on cricket resuming with them anytime in the foreseeable future. If it happens, well, we face them in ICC events, which is fine.” Speculations are rife that India may find a window for the postponed Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 in the same period when Asia Cup 2020 is scheduled to be hosted, by Pakistan, in September 2020. However, Mani rejected all the reports as he said that Asia Cup is not about India or Pakistan as the revenue generated from the tournament goes into the development of the sport in associate members. ALSO READ: This is mother of all World Cups and 1.3 billion people are in it to win it: Ravi shastri on India's fight against COVID-19 pandemic He further said that nothing has been decided on where the Asia Cup 2020 will be hosted as things are uncertain at this point due to COVID-19 pandemic. “Asia Cup is not about Pakistan and India; it is about Asian countries. The revenue generated from the Cup is invested in the development of the sport in our associate members,” he said. “We haven’t decided when and where the tournament will be held. Things at this point are uncertain and that’s why we haven’t discussed much. But once things are finalised, it won’t be difficult for ACC to stage it.

'India are unreliable, can't resume cricket with them anytime soon' - PCB chairman Ehsan Mani on Indo-Pak bilateral series

As India continues to fight against the dreaded COVID-19 pandemic, Head Coach of the Indian cricket team, Ravi Shastri took to social media platform Twitter to post a video in a bid to raise awareness surrounding the deadly coronavirus. Shastri said that everyone has to give their complete effort and chase it like the World Cup. The flamboyant former cricketer further said that coronavirus is the mother of all World Cups where 1.3 billion people are in the playing arena and are fighting for their country.

Shastri added that to win this, people have to follow the basics and adhere to the instructions given by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the health experts.

"Today the COVID-19 has put us in a situation where we got our backs to the wall," Shastri said in a video posted by him on Twitter.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-helping-as-many-as-possible-mohammed-shami-narrates-emotional-story-of-migrant-workers-in-lockdown-phase-292615" hreflang="en">Watch: 'Helping as many as possible' - Mohammed Shami narrates emotional story of migrant workers in lockdown phase</a>

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Stay Home, Stay Safe! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Lockdown2?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Lockdown2</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StayHome?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StayHome</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaFightsCorona?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaFightsCorona</a> <a href="https://t.co/JQTZVib2in">pic.twitter.com/JQTZVib2in</a>
— Ravi Shastri (@RaviShastriOfc) <a href="https://twitter.com/RaviShastriOfc/status/1250255058845007872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"To combat this coronavirus is like chasing a World Cup where you give your everything in trying to win it. What's staring you at the face is no ordinary World Cup. This is the mother of all World Cups where not just eleven are playing but 1.4 (1.3) billion are in the playing arena and competing.”

"Guys we can win this. For that, we have to observe the basics. You have got your Prime Minister leading from the front ahead of the curve like other countries have farmed out," Shastri asserted.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-showing-no-signs-of-ageing-lot-of-cricket-still-left-in-him-suresh-raina-292500" hreflang="en">MS Dhoni showing no signs of ageing, lot of cricket still left in him: Suresh Raina</a>

"You have to obey the orders that come from the top: be it Centre, state or the frontline workers who are risking their lives."

Continuing, Shastri said to win this game, people have to go through the pain to break the chain and see the profits while adding if the brute force of 1.3 billion people is together then India will be able to defeat coronavirus and get hands on the World Cup of humanity.

"It is not easy but to win the game you got to go through the pain to break the chain and see the gain," said the 57-year-old.

"Come on, guys! let's do it together. Let us get out there in a bruit force of 1.4 billion (1.3 billion) and beat this coronavirus and get your hands on the World Cup of humanity. Let's do it," he added.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, a total number of 11,439 cases of coronavirus have been reported in India. So far, 377 people have succumbed to the infection in the country, while 1306 patients have been cured. 
&nbsp;

As India continues to fight against the dreaded COVID-19 pandemic, Head Coach of the Indian cricket team, Ravi Shastri took to social media platform Twitter to post a video in a bid to raise awareness surrounding the deadly coronavirus.

As India continues to fight against the dreaded COVID-19 pandemic, Head Coach of the Indian cricket team, Ravi Shastri took to social media platform Twitter to post a video in a bid to raise awareness surrounding the deadly coronavirus. Shastri said that everyone has to give their complete effort and chase it like the World Cup. The flamboyant former cricketer further said that coronavirus is the mother of all World Cups where 1.3 billion people are in the playing arena and are fighting for their country. Shastri added that to win this, people have to follow the basics and adhere to the instructions given by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the health experts. "Today the COVID-19 has put us in a situation where we got our backs to the wall," Shastri said in a video posted by him on Twitter. ALSO READ: Watch: 'Helping as many as possible' - Mohammed Shami narrates emotional story of migrant workers in lockdown phase Stay Home, Stay Safe! #Lockdown2 #COVID19 #StayHome #IndiaFightsCorona pic.twitter.com/JQTZVib2in — Ravi Shastri (@RaviShastriOfc) April 15, 2020 × "To combat this coronavirus is like chasing a World Cup where you give your everything in trying to win it. What's staring you at the face is no ordinary World Cup. This is the mother of all World Cups where not just eleven are playing but 1.4 (1.3) billion are in the playing arena and competing.” "Guys we can win this. For that, we have to observe the basics. You have got your Prime Minister leading from the front ahead of the curve like other countries have farmed out," Shastri asserted. ALSO READ: MS Dhoni showing no signs of ageing, lot of cricket still left in him: Suresh Raina "You have to obey the orders that come from the top: be it Centre, state or the frontline workers who are risking their lives." Continuing, Shastri said to win this game, people have to go through the pain to break the chain and see the profits while adding if the brute force of 1.3 billion people is together then India will be able to defeat coronavirus and get hands on the World Cup of humanity. "It is not easy but to win the game you got to go through the pain to break the chain and see the gain," said the 57-year-old. "Come on, guys! let's do it together. Let us get out there in a bruit force of 1.4 billion (1.3 billion) and beat this coronavirus and get your hands on the World Cup of humanity. Let's do it," he added. Meanwhile, a total number of 11,439 cases of coronavirus have been reported in India. So far, 377 people have succumbed to the infection in the country, while 1306 patients have been cured.

This is mother of all World Cups and 1.3 billion people are in it to win it: Ravi shastri on India's fight against COVID-19 pandemic

As India continues to fight against the deadly COVID-19 pandemic, sportspersons have come out and done their bit by supporting needy people. While news of star athletes donating come out in a flash, there are many&nbsp;stories which don't&nbsp;come out in public. Indian pacer Mohammed Shami narrated one such incident during his Instagram Live session with Yuzvendra Chahal as he described the pain and agony people are going through in these time of distress, and how he is helping those who are struggling to get basic amenities.&nbsp;

Shami told Chahal that people are struggling to get their daily bread and butter and thus, are trying to go to their native places or villages. Narrating one such incident, Shami said there was a lady walking from Rajasthan with a six-month-old baby in her arms and wanted to head towards Bihar, 200 kilometres from Lucknow. She had blisters on her feet and couldn’t even walk properly.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-idea-of-the-womens-ipl-needs-to-be-deliberated-upon-wv-raman-on-future-of-the-sport-coaching-in-lockdown-t20-wc-and-more-292494" hreflang="en">Exclusive: 'Idea of the Women's IPL needs to be deliberated upon' - WV Raman on future of the sport, coaching in lockdown, T20 WC and more</a>

Shami narrated another incident of man from Delhi who was in going through similar pain. The Indian pacer further said one can’t help out everyone in such times but said he is doing his bit and assisting those he is coming across. Replying to Shami, Chahal said they are doing whatever is in their hands. Continuing the conversation, Shami said people are going through so much pain, it is hard to witness such times.&nbsp;

"He was coming from Rajasthan. Just imagine he is supposed to go to Bihar which is so far from Lucknow too. He has no means to commute and I saw in my home CCTV camera that he fainted in hunger and was close to my door. So I provided him with food and helped him out," Shami said.

"I am trying to help as much as I can. There are migrant workers here who are really struggling to meet ends. The highway is also near my house so I can see people having a tough time. I feel I should help and I am doing as much as possible," added the 29-year-old.

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— Subhayan Chakraborty (@CricSubhayan) <a href="https://twitter.com/CricSubhayan/status/1250324005153730563?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The ace Indian pacer has been pretty active on social media in a bid to keep his fans and followers engaged with live cricket action completely halted due to COVID-19 pandemic. Indian cricketers have actively donated to help the Indian government in their fight against the dreaded coronavirus.&nbsp; 
Before the cricket calendar was swept away by the deadly virus, Shami was in red-hot form across formats and was one of the leading wicket-takers for India.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/in-time-of-no-cricket-rob-moody-keeping-the-game-alive-292479" hreflang="en">In time of no cricket, Rob Moody keeping the game alive</a>

However, with the situation surrounding the COVID-19 deteriorating with each passing day, there no certainty as to when the action will resume. Even the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 is set to be postponed indefinitely, as per reports.&nbsp; 
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As India continues to fight against the deadly COVID-19 pandemic, sportspersons have come out and done their bit by supporting needy people. While news of star athletes donating come out in a flash, there are many stories which don't come out in public.

As India continues to fight against the deadly COVID-19 pandemic, sportspersons have come out and done their bit by supporting needy people. While news of star athletes donating come out in a flash, there are many stories which don't come out in public. Indian pacer Mohammed Shami narrated one such incident during his Instagram Live session with Yuzvendra Chahal as he described the pain and agony people are going through in these time of distress, and how he is helping those who are struggling to get basic amenities. Shami told Chahal that people are struggling to get their daily bread and butter and thus, are trying to go to their native places or villages. Narrating one such incident, Shami said there was a lady walking from Rajasthan with a six-month-old baby in her arms and wanted to head towards Bihar, 200 kilometres from Lucknow. She had blisters on her feet and couldn’t even walk properly. ALSO READ: Exclusive: 'Idea of the Women's IPL needs to be deliberated upon' - WV Raman on future of the sport, coaching in lockdown, T20 WC and more Shami narrated another incident of man from Delhi who was in going through similar pain. The Indian pacer further said one can’t help out everyone in such times but said he is doing his bit and assisting those he is coming across. Replying to Shami, Chahal said they are doing whatever is in their hands. Continuing the conversation, Shami said people are going through so much pain, it is hard to witness such times. "He was coming from Rajasthan. Just imagine he is supposed to go to Bihar which is so far from Lucknow too. He has no means to commute and I saw in my home CCTV camera that he fainted in hunger and was close to my door. So I provided him with food and helped him out," Shami said. "I am trying to help as much as I can. There are migrant workers here who are really struggling to meet ends. The highway is also near my house so I can see people having a tough time. I feel I should help and I am doing as much as possible," added the 29-year-old. .@MdShami11 pic.twitter.com/QyX1Zm4dD5 — Subhayan Chakraborty (@CricSubhayan) April 15, 2020 × The ace Indian pacer has been pretty active on social media in a bid to keep his fans and followers engaged with live cricket action completely halted due to COVID-19 pandemic. Indian cricketers have actively donated to help the Indian government in their fight against the dreaded coronavirus. Before the cricket calendar was swept away by the deadly virus, Shami was in red-hot form across formats and was one of the leading wicket-takers for India. ALSO READ: In time of no cricket, Rob Moody keeping the game alive However, with the situation surrounding the COVID-19 deteriorating with each passing day, there no certainty as to when the action will resume. Even the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 is set to be postponed indefinitely, as per reports.

Watch: 'Helping as many as possible' - Mohammed Shami narrates emotional story of migrant workers in lockdown phase

Former Pakistan first-class cricketer Zafar Sarfaraz has passed away after testing positive for COVID-19.The 50-year-old had been on a ventilator in the intensive care unit of a private hospital in Peshawar for the last three days, ESPNCricinfo reported.

Sarfraz has become the first professional cricketer to succumb to COVID-19 in Pakistan.Sarfaraz had made his debut in 1988 and he went on to score 616 runs from 15 first-class games for Peshawar.He also managed to score 96 runs from six one-day games before retiring in 1994.

He then took up the role of coaching both the senior and the Under-19 Peshawar teams in the mid-2000s.Zafar was the brother of Pakistan international player Akhtar Sarfraz.Akhtar had passed away 10 months ago in the same city after a battle with colon cancer.

Peshawar, a city in the north of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, has 744 of the nearly 5500 active cases in the country.Nearly 100 people have died from the coronavirus pandemic in Pakistan.

Former Pakistan first-class cricketer Zafar Sarfaraz has passed away after testing positive for COVID-19.The 50-year-old had been on a ventilator in the intensive care unit of a private hospital in Peshawar for the last three days, ESPNCricinfo reported.

Former Pakistan first-class cricketer Zafar Sarfaraz has passed away after testing positive for COVID-19.The 50-year-old had been on a ventilator in the intensive care unit of a private hospital in Peshawar for the last three days, ESPNCricinfo reported. Sarfraz has become the first professional cricketer to succumb to COVID-19 in Pakistan.Sarfaraz had made his debut in 1988 and he went on to score 616 runs from 15 first-class games for Peshawar.He also managed to score 96 runs from six one-day games before retiring in 1994. He then took up the role of coaching both the senior and the Under-19 Peshawar teams in the mid-2000s.Zafar was the brother of Pakistan international player Akhtar Sarfraz.Akhtar had passed away 10 months ago in the same city after a battle with colon cancer. Peshawar, a city in the north of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, has 744 of the nearly 5500 active cases in the country.Nearly 100 people have died from the coronavirus pandemic in Pakistan.

COVID-19: Former Pakistan first-class cricketer Zafar Sarfaraz passes away after testing positive for coronavirus

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