Sadio Mane says he would understand if Liverpool were denied the Premier League title even though they were on the brink of glory when coronavirus forced a shutdown.

Jurgen Klopp's men were 25 points clear of Manchester City when football came to a halt last month, agonisingly close to their first top-flight triumph in 30 years.

But it is unclear when, or even if, the season will be completed.

Asked if he feels like a champion, the 27-year-old Senegal forward told Talksport that he wanted to win the Premier League on the pitch.

"I want to win the games and I want to get the trophy, it's what I would love," he said. "But with this situation, whatever happens I will understand.

"It has been difficult for Liverpool, but it has been more difficult for many millions of people around the world.

"Some people have lost family members and that is the more complicated situation. But for myself, it's my dream and I want to win it this year.

"If that's not the case, I will accept, it's part of life. Hopefully we will win it next year."

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin said this week there was "no way" Liverpool should finish the season without the title, even if the campaign is cancelled.

Sadio Mane says he would understand if Liverpool were denied the Premier League title even though they were on the brink of glory when coronavirus forced a shutdown.

Sadio Mane says he would understand if Liverpool were denied the Premier League title even though they were on the brink of glory when coronavirus forced a shutdown. Jurgen Klopp's men were 25 points clear of Manchester City when football came to a halt last month, agonisingly close to their first top-flight triumph in 30 years. But it is unclear when, or even if, the season will be completed. Asked if he feels like a champion, the 27-year-old Senegal forward told Talksport that he wanted to win the Premier League on the pitch. "I want to win the games and I want to get the trophy, it's what I would love," he said. "But with this situation, whatever happens I will understand. "It has been difficult for Liverpool, but it has been more difficult for many millions of people around the world. "Some people have lost family members and that is the more complicated situation. But for myself, it's my dream and I want to win it this year. "If that's not the case, I will accept, it's part of life. Hopefully we will win it next year." UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin said this week there was "no way" Liverpool should finish the season without the title, even if the campaign is cancelled.

Mane would 'understand' if Liverpool were denied Premier League title

Tottenham Hotspur and England great Jimmy Greaves is being treated in hospital, the Premier League club announced Tuesday.

But there was no mention in their brief statement of whether the former striker was suffering from the coronavirus, or indeed the exact nature of the 80-year-old's current condition.

"We can confirm that our record goalscorer Jimmy Greaves is currently being treated in hospital," said a statement on Spurs' official Twitter feed.

"We are in touch with his family and will provide further updates in due course. Everybody at the club sends their best wishes to Jimmy and his family."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
We can confirm that our record goalscorer Jimmy Greaves is currently being treated in hospital. We are in touch with his family and will provide further updates in due course. 
 
Everybody at the Club sends their best wishes to Jimmy and his family. <a href="https://t.co/tDneZxDc3m">pic.twitter.com/tDneZxDc3m</a>
— Tottenham Hotspur (at 🏡) (@SpursOfficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpursOfficial/status/1247641068402769925?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Greaves is understood to have been in poor health since suffering a stroke nearly five years ago.

A prolific goalscorer throughout his career, Greaves also played for Chelsea and West Ham, but his greatest success came at Tottenham during a golden era for the London side that saw him score a club record 266 goals in 379 matches from 1961-70.

For decades Greaves held the record for most goals scored in Europe's top five leagues, his tally of 366 goals in 528 appearances during a career that also included a spell at Italy's AC Milan only broken by Cristiano Ronaldo in 2017.

Greaves was equally prolific at international level, scoring 44 goals in just 57 appearances for England.

He was a member of the England squad that won the 1966 World Cup on home soil but an injury in a group game against France cost him his place in the side and paved the way for his replacement, Geoff Hurst, to score a hat-trick in the final against West Germany.

Tottenham Hotspur and England great Jimmy Greaves is being treated in hospital, the Premier League club announced Tuesday. But there was no mention in their brief statement of whether the former striker was suffering from the coronavirus, or indeed the exact nature of the 80-year-old's current condition.

Tottenham Hotspur and England great Jimmy Greaves is being treated in hospital, the Premier League club announced Tuesday. But there was no mention in their brief statement of whether the former striker was suffering from the coronavirus, or indeed the exact nature of the 80-year-old's current condition. "We can confirm that our record goalscorer Jimmy Greaves is currently being treated in hospital," said a statement on Spurs' official Twitter feed. "We are in touch with his family and will provide further updates in due course. Everybody at the club sends their best wishes to Jimmy and his family." We can confirm that our record goalscorer Jimmy Greaves is currently being treated in hospital. We are in touch with his family and will provide further updates in due course. Everybody at the Club sends their best wishes to Jimmy and his family. pic.twitter.com/tDneZxDc3m — Tottenham Hotspur (at 🏡) (@SpursOfficial) April 7, 2020 × Greaves is understood to have been in poor health since suffering a stroke nearly five years ago. A prolific goalscorer throughout his career, Greaves also played for Chelsea and West Ham, but his greatest success came at Tottenham during a golden era for the London side that saw him score a club record 266 goals in 379 matches from 1961-70. For decades Greaves held the record for most goals scored in Europe's top five leagues, his tally of 366 goals in 528 appearances during a career that also included a spell at Italy's AC Milan only broken by Cristiano Ronaldo in 2017. Greaves was equally prolific at international level, scoring 44 goals in just 57 appearances for England. He was a member of the England squad that won the 1966 World Cup on home soil but an injury in a group game against France cost him his place in the side and paved the way for his replacement, Geoff Hurst, to score a hat-trick in the final against West Germany.

Tottenham Hotspur and England great Greaves in hospital

Former India pacer Ashish Nehra reckons there is 100 per cent possibility of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 taking place in the final quarter of the year 2020 given the situation surrounding COVID-19 improves worldwide by October.&nbsp;

The IPL 2020 was earlier scheduled to be played from March 29 but was suspended till April 15. However, with entire India currently under a 21-day lockdown period, there no clarity whether it would go ahead at all.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-is-massive-hope-there-is-a-way-to-schedule-ipl-later-in-the-year-rajasthan-royals-jos-buttler-291119" hreflang="en">IPL is massive, hope there is a way to schedule IPL later in the year: Rajasthan Royals' Jos Buttler</a>

Nehra is of the view that if the IPL happens in August, a lot of matches will get cancelled due to monsoon season in India. However, the World Cup winner added that if things are back to normal by October then the organisers will have 100 per cent clearance to conduct the cash-rich tournament.

"Even if the IPL doesn't happen in August, (because) there are a lot of places in India that witness rains during that month and there are high chances that lots of matches will get cancelled," Nehra told host broadcasters’ show 'Cricket Connected'.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/harbhajan-singh-fine-with-the-idea-of-ipl-2020-behind-closed-doors-291101" hreflang="en">Harbhajan Singh fine with the idea of IPL 2020 behind closed doors</a>

"If things go back to normal around the world by October, we'll have a 100 per cent clearance," he reckoned.

However, with the spike in COVID-19 cases increasing with each passing day in India and across the world, there are less chances of IPL 2020 taking place this year. The deadly virus has claimed nearly 150 Indian lives apart from causing more than 80,000 global deaths with many countries going under complete lockdown, including India.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Former India pacer Ashish Nehra reckons there is 100 per cent possibility of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 taking place in the final quarter of the year 2020 given the situation surrounding COVID-19 improves worldwide by October.

Former India pacer Ashish Nehra reckons there is 100 per cent possibility of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 taking place in the final quarter of the year 2020 given the situation surrounding COVID-19 improves worldwide by October. The IPL 2020 was earlier scheduled to be played from March 29 but was suspended till April 15. However, with entire India currently under a 21-day lockdown period, there no clarity whether it would go ahead at all. ALSO READ: IPL is massive, hope there is a way to schedule IPL later in the year: Rajasthan Royals' Jos Buttler Nehra is of the view that if the IPL happens in August, a lot of matches will get cancelled due to monsoon season in India. However, the World Cup winner added that if things are back to normal by October then the organisers will have 100 per cent clearance to conduct the cash-rich tournament. "Even if the IPL doesn't happen in August, (because) there are a lot of places in India that witness rains during that month and there are high chances that lots of matches will get cancelled," Nehra told host broadcasters’ show 'Cricket Connected'. ALSO READ: Harbhajan Singh fine with the idea of IPL 2020 behind closed doors "If things go back to normal around the world by October, we'll have a 100 per cent clearance," he reckoned. However, with the spike in COVID-19 cases increasing with each passing day in India and across the world, there are less chances of IPL 2020 taking place this year. The deadly virus has claimed nearly 150 Indian lives apart from causing more than 80,000 global deaths with many countries going under complete lockdown, including India.

'We'll have a 100 per cent clearance if...' - Ashish Nehra opines on future of IPL 2020

With the entire world coming to a standstill due to COVID-19 pandemic, sportspersons have taken to social media platforms to catch up with their mates while keeping their fans and followers engaged during the time of lockdown. Indian opener Rohit Sharma on Tuesday had an Instagram Live session with former Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singh where the duo was seen discussing a lot of things related to cricket and the current situation surrounding coronavirus.&nbsp;

During the interaction, Yuvraj and Rohit touched upon the topic of team culture. Yuvraj stated that junior players aren’t that afraid of seniors now while adding there was a certain behavioral code in the past which is not the case right now in the Indian cricket team.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virus-prevents-play-at-trump-opened-worlds-biggest-cricket-stadium-291302" hreflang="en">Virus prevents play at Trump-opened world's biggest cricket stadium</a>

Yuvraj further said that having so many legends in one team helped everyone in the squad to maintain the code of conduct as he added that now junior players are more available on social media, events and other things. &nbsp;

"There was a certain behaviour that we boys had to carry, how they talk to people, how they talk to media. Because they were the ambassadors of the game and India. But it is not the same anymore," Yuvraj told Rohit during the Instagram live session on Tuesday. &nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jos-buttlers-world-cup-final-shirt-raises-ps65000-for-hospital-appeal-291301">Jos Buttler's World Cup final shirt raises £65,000 for hospital appeal</a>

"I think juniors, because of social media, party scenes, these things, we could not even think about that in our time. Because we had that fear that if we do some mistake our senior will tell us that do not do this, this is not right," Yuvraj added. &nbsp;

The two-time World Cup winner touched upon the infamous incident involving Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul in a highly popular talk show which led to the suspension of the duo for their ‘sexist’ comments. Yuvraj said: "That incident could not have happened in our time."&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

With the entire world coming to a standstill due to COVID-19 pandemic, sportspersons have taken to social media platforms to catch up with their mates while keeping their fans and followers engaged during the time of lockdown.

With the entire world coming to a standstill due to COVID-19 pandemic, sportspersons have taken to social media platforms to catch up with their mates while keeping their fans and followers engaged during the time of lockdown. Indian opener Rohit Sharma on Tuesday had an Instagram Live session with former Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singh where the duo was seen discussing a lot of things related to cricket and the current situation surrounding coronavirus. During the interaction, Yuvraj and Rohit touched upon the topic of team culture. Yuvraj stated that junior players aren’t that afraid of seniors now while adding there was a certain behavioral code in the past which is not the case right now in the Indian cricket team. ALSO READ: Virus prevents play at Trump-opened world's biggest cricket stadium Yuvraj further said that having so many legends in one team helped everyone in the squad to maintain the code of conduct as he added that now junior players are more available on social media, events and other things. "There was a certain behaviour that we boys had to carry, how they talk to people, how they talk to media. Because they were the ambassadors of the game and India. But it is not the same anymore," Yuvraj told Rohit during the Instagram live session on Tuesday. ALSO READ: Jos Buttler's World Cup final shirt raises £65,000 for hospital appeal "I think juniors, because of social media, party scenes, these things, we could not even think about that in our time. Because we had that fear that if we do some mistake our senior will tell us that do not do this, this is not right," Yuvraj added. The two-time World Cup winner touched upon the infamous incident involving Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul in a highly popular talk show which led to the suspension of the duo for their ‘sexist’ comments. Yuvraj said: "That incident could not have happened in our time."

'Because we had that fear if...'- Yuvraj Singh explains change in Indian cricket team's culture

Athletes are fooling themselves if they think they can use the chaos caused globally by the coronavirus pandemic to cheat, World Anti-Doping Agency president Witold Banka has told AFP.

The Pole said physical testing might be virtually at a standstill but WADA and national anti-doping agencies possessed other weapons they can deploy in the fight against doping.

Canada and Russia have gone public in saying they have suspended their testing programmes while the British anti-doping body has significantly reduced its testing.

"COVID-19 is not a space for the athletes to cheat," Banka said in a phone interview from his home in Poland.

"They should not feel it is a time for cheating. Otherwise, the anti-doping agencies will use their weapons to catch them."

The 35-year-old former Polish sports minister, who only took up his post on January 1 after being elected to replace Craig Reedie, said he hoped it would not take long once the pandemic was over to return testing to its "full power".

In the meantime WADA would rely on other means to keep tabs on athletes.

"Testing is not our only weapon and we have some strong ones," Banka said.

"There is the athlete biological passport, there is long-term analysis of samples, there is intelligence.

"The biological passport is a useful tool for the profile of the athletes.

"Also they are still obliged to tell us of their whereabouts even if we cannot go and test them."

Banka is mindful however that on a global basis, combating the coronavirus is the number one priority.

"Anti-doping is not as important as people's lives," he said.

The former international 400 metres runner said he had been in regular contact with leading sports bodies including the International Olympic Committee and the National Anti-Doping Organizations to discuss the current situation.

"We issued guidelines for them that cover a number of areas that may be affected by COVID-19."

<h2>- 'Cause for concern' -</h2>

The pandemic has forced Banka to put on hold several ideas he wants to implement, especially a bid to increase funding for the anti-doping fight.&nbsp;

"I am pursuing the idea of a Solidarity Fund to serve regions like Africa, for example, where they have very limited anti-doping systems (there is just one accredited laboratory in South Africa)," he said.

"We are still working on that, this is a very important issue."

He aims to encourage sponsors and corporate partners to back the fight against doping with hard cash.

"The idea is to get them to contribute a minimum of their sponsorship investment in sport (to anti-doping efforts)."

Such corporate involvement could go some way to resolving an age-old problem for WADA, and one Reedie frequently raised -- that their budget is insufficient for the size of the task they face.

"We are a strong organisation with powerful tools," said Banka.

"But taking into account our budget, $36-40 million a year, that is not in line with the expectations towards the organisation expressed by our stakeholders. We want, or rather have to, increase it.

"That is why we are looking for some alternative sources of funding."

Banka said proudly that WADA "plays many roles" and achieves a lot even with the budget constraints but stresses that with extra funding "it could do a lot more".

"One aspect we would like to address is that at the 2016 Rio Games, 10 percent of the medallists came from countries who either have very weak anti-doping systems or none at all," he said.

"That is a cause for concern and one which we should have the capability to address.

"That would be possible if sponsors were willing to contribute to the Solidarity Fund."

Banka said the coronavirus pandemic would not deter WADA from its over-riding goal.

"This is a new world for all of us," he said.

"WADA, though, will do everything to maintain the integrity and beautiful idea of clean sport."

Athletes are fooling themselves if they think they can use the chaos caused globally by the coronavirus pandemic to cheat, World Anti-Doping Agency president Witold Banka has told AFP.

Athletes are fooling themselves if they think they can use the chaos caused globally by the coronavirus pandemic to cheat, World Anti-Doping Agency president Witold Banka has told AFP. The Pole said physical testing might be virtually at a standstill but WADA and national anti-doping agencies possessed other weapons they can deploy in the fight against doping. Canada and Russia have gone public in saying they have suspended their testing programmes while the British anti-doping body has significantly reduced its testing. "COVID-19 is not a space for the athletes to cheat," Banka said in a phone interview from his home in Poland. "They should not feel it is a time for cheating. Otherwise, the anti-doping agencies will use their weapons to catch them." The 35-year-old former Polish sports minister, who only took up his post on January 1 after being elected to replace Craig Reedie, said he hoped it would not take long once the pandemic was over to return testing to its "full power". In the meantime WADA would rely on other means to keep tabs on athletes. "Testing is not our only weapon and we have some strong ones," Banka said. "There is the athlete biological passport, there is long-term analysis of samples, there is intelligence. "The biological passport is a useful tool for the profile of the athletes. "Also they are still obliged to tell us of their whereabouts even if we cannot go and test them." Banka is mindful however that on a global basis, combating the coronavirus is the number one priority. "Anti-doping is not as important as people's lives," he said. The former international 400 metres runner said he had been in regular contact with leading sports bodies including the International Olympic Committee and the National Anti-Doping Organizations to discuss the current situation. "We issued guidelines for them that cover a number of areas that may be affected by COVID-19." - 'Cause for concern' - The pandemic has forced Banka to put on hold several ideas he wants to implement, especially a bid to increase funding for the anti-doping fight. "I am pursuing the idea of a Solidarity Fund to serve regions like Africa, for example, where they have very limited anti-doping systems (there is just one accredited laboratory in South Africa)," he said. "We are still working on that, this is a very important issue." He aims to encourage sponsors and corporate partners to back the fight against doping with hard cash. "The idea is to get them to contribute a minimum of their sponsorship investment in sport (to anti-doping efforts)." Such corporate involvement could go some way to resolving an age-old problem for WADA, and one Reedie frequently raised -- that their budget is insufficient for the size of the task they face. "We are a strong organisation with powerful tools," said Banka. "But taking into account our budget, $36-40 million a year, that is not in line with the expectations towards the organisation expressed by our stakeholders. We want, or rather have to, increase it. "That is why we are looking for some alternative sources of funding." Banka said proudly that WADA "plays many roles" and achieves a lot even with the budget constraints but stresses that with extra funding "it could do a lot more". "One aspect we would like to address is that at the 2016 Rio Games, 10 percent of the medallists came from countries who either have very weak anti-doping systems or none at all," he said. "That is a cause for concern and one which we should have the capability to address. "That would be possible if sponsors were willing to contribute to the Solidarity Fund." Banka said the coronavirus pandemic would not deter WADA from its over-riding goal. "This is a new world for all of us," he said. "WADA, though, will do everything to maintain the integrity and beautiful idea of clean sport."

Coronavirus not an opportunity for athletes to dope: WADA president

Liverpool were forced to apologise as the Premier League club ditched their controversial plan to furlough non-playing staff during the coronavirus on Monday, while FIFA urged players and clubs to reach agreement over wage reductions.

Liverpool faced stinging criticism from fans and former players after revealing over the weekend that they wanted to use the UK government's furlough scheme.

Fenway Sports Group, Liverpool's US-based owners, wanted to put around 200 staff on enforced leave during the pandemic while the government paid 80 percent of their wages.

Fellow top-flight teams Tottenham, Newcastle, Bournemouth and Norwich have already furloughed staff, but it was table-toppers Liverpool -- with pre-tax profits of £42 million ($51.7 million) for the 2018-19 season -- who came in for the most criticism, in part due to their reputation as a club with a strong bond to Merseyside's working-class community.

The fierce backlash sparked a sudden climbdown as Liverpool chief executive Peter Moore wrote an open letter to supporters announcing they would opt for "alternative means" to the furlough route after consulting "key stakeholders".

"We believe we came to the wrong conclusion last week to announce that we intended to apply to the Coronavirus Retention Scheme and furlough staff due to the suspension of the Premier League football calendar, and are truly sorry for that," wrote Moore.

Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher tweeted: "Well done @PeterMooreLFC @LFC a big mistake initially &amp; thankfully now it's been put right."

With the Premier League postponed indefinitely because of the virus, Manchester City, bankrolled by Abu Dhabi's Sheikh Mansour, said they would not be using the government's job retention scheme, with Manchester United set to follow their example.

Liverpool's U-turn came as England's top-flight teams, among the richest in the world, were under increasing scrutiny, with government ministers warning bosses and players they should "think carefully" over their next moves.

The highest-paid Premier League players such as Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea and Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne command eye-watering salaries, reportedly nearing £20 million ($25 million, 23 million euros) a year.

<h2>- Pay-cut impasse -</h2>

FIFA on Monday urged clubs and players to reach agreement on taking wage reductions in order to protect clubs who are suffering financial damage, sources at world football's governing body said.

It also recommended that players' contracts be extended until the end of the interrupted football seasons and that the transfer window should not open until that time.

The call from FIFA comes as Premier League clubs are locked in talks with players and their representatives about taking pay cuts.

The English top flight is lagging behind other European leagues.

In Spain, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid players have agreed to pay cuts of 70 percent.

Many politicians have urged action from the Premier League and in a poll conducted by British polling company YouGov last week, 92 percent of respondents said they backed a pay cut.

But some leading players resent the political pressure. Former England captain Wayne Rooney has criticised the government and the Premier League for placing footballers in a "no-win" situation.

"In my opinion it is now a no-win situation," Rooney said in a newspaper column. "Whatever way you look at it, we're easy targets."

Meanwhile, the chief executive of England's Professional Footballers' Association, the players' union, said he would not take a cut to his £2 million salary.

"The PFA will make donations and the PFA is involved in the players' charity," Gordon Taylor told The Guardian when asked directly if he would accept a reduction in salary.

Taylor added his members believed the Premier League's suggestion of a proposed 30 percent wage reduction across all top-flight clubs was impractical given the teams' differing financial positions.

"You can't have one suit fitting all sizes because there is such a variance in income and expenditure," he said.

But in the latest sign of the financial crisis caused by the coronavirus, England manager Gareth Southgate and the Football Association's top earners have agreed to take wage cuts of up to 30 percent.

Liverpool were forced to apologise as the Premier League club ditched their controversial plan to furlough non-playing staff during the coronavirus on Monday, while FIFA urged players and clubs to reach agreement over wage reductions.

Liverpool were forced to apologise as the Premier League club ditched their controversial plan to furlough non-playing staff during the coronavirus on Monday, while FIFA urged players and clubs to reach agreement over wage reductions. Liverpool faced stinging criticism from fans and former players after revealing over the weekend that they wanted to use the UK government's furlough scheme. Fenway Sports Group, Liverpool's US-based owners, wanted to put around 200 staff on enforced leave during the pandemic while the government paid 80 percent of their wages. Fellow top-flight teams Tottenham, Newcastle, Bournemouth and Norwich have already furloughed staff, but it was table-toppers Liverpool -- with pre-tax profits of £42 million ($51.7 million) for the 2018-19 season -- who came in for the most criticism, in part due to their reputation as a club with a strong bond to Merseyside's working-class community. The fierce backlash sparked a sudden climbdown as Liverpool chief executive Peter Moore wrote an open letter to supporters announcing they would opt for "alternative means" to the furlough route after consulting "key stakeholders". "We believe we came to the wrong conclusion last week to announce that we intended to apply to the Coronavirus Retention Scheme and furlough staff due to the suspension of the Premier League football calendar, and are truly sorry for that," wrote Moore. Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher tweeted: "Well done @PeterMooreLFC @LFC a big mistake initially & thankfully now it's been put right." With the Premier League postponed indefinitely because of the virus, Manchester City, bankrolled by Abu Dhabi's Sheikh Mansour, said they would not be using the government's job retention scheme, with Manchester United set to follow their example. Liverpool's U-turn came as England's top-flight teams, among the richest in the world, were under increasing scrutiny, with government ministers warning bosses and players they should "think carefully" over their next moves. The highest-paid Premier League players such as Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea and Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne command eye-watering salaries, reportedly nearing £20 million ($25 million, 23 million euros) a year. - Pay-cut impasse - FIFA on Monday urged clubs and players to reach agreement on taking wage reductions in order to protect clubs who are suffering financial damage, sources at world football's governing body said. It also recommended that players' contracts be extended until the end of the interrupted football seasons and that the transfer window should not open until that time. The call from FIFA comes as Premier League clubs are locked in talks with players and their representatives about taking pay cuts. The English top flight is lagging behind other European leagues. In Spain, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid players have agreed to pay cuts of 70 percent. Many politicians have urged action from the Premier League and in a poll conducted by British polling company YouGov last week, 92 percent of respondents said they backed a pay cut. But some leading players resent the political pressure. Former England captain Wayne Rooney has criticised the government and the Premier League for placing footballers in a "no-win" situation. "In my opinion it is now a no-win situation," Rooney said in a newspaper column. "Whatever way you look at it, we're easy targets." Meanwhile, the chief executive of England's Professional Footballers' Association, the players' union, said he would not take a cut to his £2 million salary. "The PFA will make donations and the PFA is involved in the players' charity," Gordon Taylor told The Guardian when asked directly if he would accept a reduction in salary. Taylor added his members believed the Premier League's suggestion of a proposed 30 percent wage reduction across all top-flight clubs was impractical given the teams' differing financial positions. "You can't have one suit fitting all sizes because there is such a variance in income and expenditure," he said. But in the latest sign of the financial crisis caused by the coronavirus, England manager Gareth Southgate and the Football Association's top earners have agreed to take wage cuts of up to 30 percent.

Liverpool make U-turn over furlough scheme after clubs slammed

Thomas Mueller looks set to spend his entire career at Bayern Munich, who he describes as his 'passion', after signing a contract extension until 2023, the reigning Bundesliga champions announced on Tuesday.

The 30-year-old joined the club as a schoolboy in 2000, making his debut for the Bavarians eight years later and has since racked up more than 500 appearances.

"I am really pleased that I have extended with Bayern Munich... and will continue to give everything for my club," the 2014 World Cup winner said on Twitter.

"Because this club is not just an employer for me - it is a passion." &nbsp;

Having risen up through the youth ranks, Mueller is a club icon who has won eight league titles, five German Cups and the 2013 Champions League.

"I'm happy that we've reached agreement with Thomas. Thomas is a special player for us, a figurehead for the club and our fans, a leader who shows the way on the pitch and has achieved a lot with FC Bayern," sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic said in a statement.

The new deal comes after Mueller worked his way back into the side under coach Hansi Flick this season after being frozen out by previous boss Niko Kovac.

Flick himself signed a deal to make his contract permanent until 2023 after guiding his outfit back to the top of the German top-flight.

Mueller scored 38 goals for Germany in 100 internationals and was a key part of the team which won the World Cup in Brazil six years ago.

In the wake of Germany's disastrous 2018 World Cup campaign, Mueller, Mats Hummels and Jerome Boateng were told the following March they were no longer in the plans of national head coach Joachim Loew.

However, Mueller could yet still feature for his country having been told he is the frame to be selected for the Tokyo Olympics, postponed until next year due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Thomas Mueller looks set to spend his entire career at Bayern Munich, who he describes as his 'passion', after signing a contract extension until 2023, the reigning Bundesliga champions announced on Tuesday.

Thomas Mueller looks set to spend his entire career at Bayern Munich, who he describes as his 'passion', after signing a contract extension until 2023, the reigning Bundesliga champions announced on Tuesday. The 30-year-old joined the club as a schoolboy in 2000, making his debut for the Bavarians eight years later and has since racked up more than 500 appearances. "I am really pleased that I have extended with Bayern Munich... and will continue to give everything for my club," the 2014 World Cup winner said on Twitter. "Because this club is not just an employer for me - it is a passion." Having risen up through the youth ranks, Mueller is a club icon who has won eight league titles, five German Cups and the 2013 Champions League. "I'm happy that we've reached agreement with Thomas. Thomas is a special player for us, a figurehead for the club and our fans, a leader who shows the way on the pitch and has achieved a lot with FC Bayern," sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic said in a statement. The new deal comes after Mueller worked his way back into the side under coach Hansi Flick this season after being frozen out by previous boss Niko Kovac. Flick himself signed a deal to make his contract permanent until 2023 after guiding his outfit back to the top of the German top-flight. Mueller scored 38 goals for Germany in 100 internationals and was a key part of the team which won the World Cup in Brazil six years ago. In the wake of Germany's disastrous 2018 World Cup campaign, Mueller, Mats Hummels and Jerome Boateng were told the following March they were no longer in the plans of national head coach Joachim Loew. However, Mueller could yet still feature for his country having been told he is the frame to be selected for the Tokyo Olympics, postponed until next year due to the coronavirus pandemic.

'It's my passion': Mueller extends Bayern deal until 2023

La Liga could return to action as early as next month, its president Javier Tebas said on Tuesday, as the league awaits a chance to restart following the coronavirus shutdown.

Tebas also warned Spanish clubs could lose as much as one billion euros ($1.1 billion) if the season is not completed, pushing football bosses in the country to search for a late finish to the current campaign.

"The different scenarios we have been looking at with UEFA to go back to competing are most probably starting on the May 28-29 June 6-7 or June 28-29," Tebas said.

"We're not just looking at what happens in Spain... the job is to get all our calendars (in Europe) in line so all the competitions are able to finish together."

But Tebas said no team training could take place until after the state of emergency ends in Spain -- currently set until April 26. Should that end date be pushed back the chances of restarting in May would likely vanish.

Tebas said "it is not an option" to cancel the season given the massive hit to revenue Spain's top clubs would have to absorb, with 150 million euros gone even if La Liga finishes the season with fans at matches.

"We are not considering at all that we will not get back to playing matches," he said.

"It is not just league revenues, it is league revenues plus all the other revenue from the Champions League that teams wouldn't receive.&nbsp;

"We are talking about one billion euros if we don't get back to playing, 300 million euros if we play behind closed doors and 150 million euros if we do to get back to playing with fans."

Fixtures are expected to be held behind closed doors, at least at first, with some Spanish clubs facing the prospect of playing away from their own grounds due to scheduled building work.

“The last businesses that will return to normal are theatres, cinemas, events that people attend," said Tebas. "We are an industry like that but we can resume part of our activity without people because the fundamental part of our income comes from TV."

The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) announced later on Tuesday that a committee including representatives from the Players' Union (AFE) and La Liga had agreed summer matches would be played every 72 hours at most and with two drinks breaks in each half due to heat.

The COVID-19 pandemic has killed nearly 14,000 people in Spain, the world's second hardest-hit country after Italy in terms of deaths.

On Tuesday, Spain said a further 743 people had died but that the "downward trend" is continuing despite an increase in the latest figures.

La Liga could return to action as early as next month, its president Javier Tebas said on Tuesday, as the league awaits a chance to restart following the coronavirus shutdown.

La Liga could return to action as early as next month, its president Javier Tebas said on Tuesday, as the league awaits a chance to restart following the coronavirus shutdown. Tebas also warned Spanish clubs could lose as much as one billion euros ($1.1 billion) if the season is not completed, pushing football bosses in the country to search for a late finish to the current campaign. "The different scenarios we have been looking at with UEFA to go back to competing are most probably starting on the May 28-29 June 6-7 or June 28-29," Tebas said. "We're not just looking at what happens in Spain... the job is to get all our calendars (in Europe) in line so all the competitions are able to finish together." But Tebas said no team training could take place until after the state of emergency ends in Spain -- currently set until April 26. Should that end date be pushed back the chances of restarting in May would likely vanish. Tebas said "it is not an option" to cancel the season given the massive hit to revenue Spain's top clubs would have to absorb, with 150 million euros gone even if La Liga finishes the season with fans at matches. "We are not considering at all that we will not get back to playing matches," he said. "It is not just league revenues, it is league revenues plus all the other revenue from the Champions League that teams wouldn't receive. "We are talking about one billion euros if we don't get back to playing, 300 million euros if we play behind closed doors and 150 million euros if we do to get back to playing with fans." Fixtures are expected to be held behind closed doors, at least at first, with some Spanish clubs facing the prospect of playing away from their own grounds due to scheduled building work. “The last businesses that will return to normal are theatres, cinemas, events that people attend," said Tebas. "We are an industry like that but we can resume part of our activity without people because the fundamental part of our income comes from TV." The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) announced later on Tuesday that a committee including representatives from the Players' Union (AFE) and La Liga had agreed summer matches would be played every 72 hours at most and with two drinks breaks in each half due to heat. The COVID-19 pandemic has killed nearly 14,000 people in Spain, the world's second hardest-hit country after Italy in terms of deaths. On Tuesday, Spain said a further 743 people had died but that the "downward trend" is continuing despite an increase in the latest figures.

La Liga eyeing May return, says league boss Tebas

The Kremlin on Tuesday "categorically" denied allegations that Russia had bribed FIFA officials for the right to host the 2018 World Cup.

"Russia absolutely legally got the right to organise the World Cup," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.&nbsp;

He said the decision was "not linked to any bribes, we categorically deny this." &nbsp;

"Russia organized the best football World Cup in history. We are proud of it," he added.&nbsp;

According to US Justice Department documents released Monday, FIFA officials received bribes to vote in favor of awarding the 2018 World Cup to Russia and the tournament in 2022 to Qatar.

"We have read the articles in the media. We do not understand what it is about," Peskov said.&nbsp;

The allegations are linked to a wide-ranging 2015 corruption scandal that left world governing body FIFA in turmoil and led to the downfall of then-president Sepp Blatter.

In the ensuing years, the US government has accused a total of 45 people and various sports companies of more than 90 crimes and of paying or accepting more than $200 million in bribes.

The Kremlin on Tuesday "categorically" denied allegations that Russia had bribed FIFA officials for the right to host the 2018 World Cup. "Russia absolutely legally got the right to organise the World Cup," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.

The Kremlin on Tuesday "categorically" denied allegations that Russia had bribed FIFA officials for the right to host the 2018 World Cup. "Russia absolutely legally got the right to organise the World Cup," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. He said the decision was "not linked to any bribes, we categorically deny this." "Russia organized the best football World Cup in history. We are proud of it," he added. According to US Justice Department documents released Monday, FIFA officials received bribes to vote in favor of awarding the 2018 World Cup to Russia and the tournament in 2022 to Qatar. "We have read the articles in the media. We do not understand what it is about," Peskov said. The allegations are linked to a wide-ranging 2015 corruption scandal that left world governing body FIFA in turmoil and led to the downfall of then-president Sepp Blatter. In the ensuing years, the US government has accused a total of 45 people and various sports companies of more than 90 crimes and of paying or accepting more than $200 million in bribes.

Russia denies bribing FIFA officials to host 2018 World Cup

Former Australian cricketer and one of the best spinners of all-time, Shane Warne on Tuesday picked his all-time XI in the Indian Premier League (IPL) consisting only Indian players. Warne was having a live session on social media platform Instagram where the legendary leg-spinner and former skipper of Rajasthan Royals named his all-India IPL XI.&nbsp;

Warne went with the opening duo of Rohit Sharma and Virender Sehwag with both the batters having incredible record and consistency in the cash-rich tournament. At number three, Warne named Team India and Royal Challengers Bangalore skipper Virat Kohli. Notably, Kohli is also the highest run-scorer in the history of IPL. Following Kohli, Warne picked Yuvraj Singh at number four with Yusuf Pathan coming in at number five.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-players-too-scared-to-sledge-virat-kohli-or-indian-players-due-to-ipl-deals-michael-clarke-291129" hreflang="en">Australian players too scared to sledge Virat Kohli or Indian players due to IPL deals: Michael Clarke</a>

“Yusuf scored one of the best hundreds against Mumbai Indians and he also played a great knock in the IPL final in 2008,” Warne said in the video.

Yusuf was followed by Chennai Super Kings captain and another legend of the game, MS Dhoni. The former India skipper was followed by his CSK teammates, Ravindra Jadeja and Harbhajan Singh. However, Warne surprisingly named Siddharth Trivedi. The former RR pacer had once picked up the wickets of Sachin Tendulkar and Sanath Jayasuriya during a match between Rajasthan Royals and Mumbai Indians.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-is-massive-hope-there-is-a-way-to-schedule-ipl-later-in-the-year-rajasthan-royals-jos-buttler-291119" hreflang="en">IPL is massive, hope there is a way to schedule IPL later in the year: Rajasthan Royals' Jos Buttler</a>

Completing the three-man pace attack, Warne named Munaf Patel and Zaheer Khan as the spearheads of the bowling line-up.&nbsp;

Shane Warne’s all-India IPL XI: Rohit Sharma, Virender Sehwag, Virat Kohli, Yuvraj Singh, Yusuf Pathan, MS Dhoni, Ravindra Jadeja, Harbhajan Singh, Siddharth Trivedi, Munaf Patel, Zaheer Khan 
&nbsp;

Former Australian cricketer and one of the best spinners of all-time, Shane Warne on Tuesday picked his all-time XI in the Indian Premier League (IPL) consisting only Indian players.

Former Australian cricketer and one of the best spinners of all-time, Shane Warne on Tuesday picked his all-time XI in the Indian Premier League (IPL) consisting only Indian players. Warne was having a live session on social media platform Instagram where the legendary leg-spinner and former skipper of Rajasthan Royals named his all-India IPL XI. Warne went with the opening duo of Rohit Sharma and Virender Sehwag with both the batters having incredible record and consistency in the cash-rich tournament. At number three, Warne named Team India and Royal Challengers Bangalore skipper Virat Kohli. Notably, Kohli is also the highest run-scorer in the history of IPL. Following Kohli, Warne picked Yuvraj Singh at number four with Yusuf Pathan coming in at number five. ALSO READ: Australian players too scared to sledge Virat Kohli or Indian players due to IPL deals: Michael Clarke “Yusuf scored one of the best hundreds against Mumbai Indians and he also played a great knock in the IPL final in 2008,” Warne said in the video. Yusuf was followed by Chennai Super Kings captain and another legend of the game, MS Dhoni. The former India skipper was followed by his CSK teammates, Ravindra Jadeja and Harbhajan Singh. However, Warne surprisingly named Siddharth Trivedi. The former RR pacer had once picked up the wickets of Sachin Tendulkar and Sanath Jayasuriya during a match between Rajasthan Royals and Mumbai Indians. ALSO READ: IPL is massive, hope there is a way to schedule IPL later in the year: Rajasthan Royals' Jos Buttler Completing the three-man pace attack, Warne named Munaf Patel and Zaheer Khan as the spearheads of the bowling line-up. Shane Warne’s all-India IPL XI: Rohit Sharma, Virender Sehwag, Virat Kohli, Yuvraj Singh, Yusuf Pathan, MS Dhoni, Ravindra Jadeja, Harbhajan Singh, Siddharth Trivedi, Munaf Patel, Zaheer Khan

Shane Warne picks all-India IPL XI; no Sachin Tendulkar in the team

The world’s number one Test batsman, Steve Smith has managed to outfox every world-class bowler by his unorthodox technique, which has left many bemused. The former Aussie skipper has, thus far, amassed as many as 7,227 runs in 73 Tests and 4,162 runs in ODI cricket with an uncanny technique and is hailed as one of the greatest batsmen ever to have graced the cricket field.

Smith has now revealed the reason behind his unusual stance, which sees his back-foot get planted in the line of off-stump. Speaking of his unorthodox batting stance, Smith said that his body posture depends on the bowler he is facing and how the wicket is playing on that particular day. However, it is mainly to limit the way of getting dismissed for Smith.

Talking about his open batting stance, Smith, said in a podcast hosted by Rajasthan Royals: “It depends on who’s bowling, how is the wicket playing, how I gonna score and stuff like that or how people are trying to get me out, probably that determines how open I am or otherwise how closed I am.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/covid-19-fight-gavaskar-contributes-rs-59-lakh-pujara-kashyap-join-list-of-donors-291164" hreflang="en">COVID-19 Fight: Gavaskar contributes Rs 59 lakh, Pujara, Kashyap join list of donors</a>

“But my general stance where my back foot is going to almost off stump or maybe even outside at stages, I know that anything outside my eyeline isn’t hitting the stumps,” he said while adding, “For me, you shouldn’t get out if the ball is not hitting the stumps, so that is just a trick from me when I first started doing it, just limiting the ways I get out,” he explained.

However, Smith has been trapped LBW and experts have blamed his uncanny batting stance for the reason behind the frequency of him getting out in that fashion.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-players-too-scared-to-sledge-virat-kohli-or-indian-players-due-to-ipl-deals-michael-clarke-291129" hreflang="en">Australian players too scared to sledge Virat Kohli or Indian players due to IPL deals: Michael Clarke</a>

“Sometimes, I get trapped in front but I’m okay with that at stages, knowing that if it is outside my eyeline, I don’t need to try and play the ball, I can just leave that,” he said.

Smith, who was out of cricket action for 12 months after a ban imposed by Cricket Australia for his role in the Cape Town ball-tampering scandal in 2018, was the highest run-scorer in 2019 when it comes to Test cricket. He went on to score as many as 589 runs in the Ashes 2019 at a whopping average of 147.25 laced with two hundred and a double century. 
&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The world’s number one Test batsman, Steve Smith has managed to outfox every world-class bowler by his unorthodox technique, which has left many bemused. The former Aussie skipper has, thus far, amassed as many as 7,227 runs in 73 Tests and 4,162 runs in ODI cricket with an uncanny technique and is hailed as one of the greatest batsmen ever to have graced the cricket field.

The world’s number one Test batsman, Steve Smith has managed to outfox every world-class bowler by his unorthodox technique, which has left many bemused. The former Aussie skipper has, thus far, amassed as many as 7,227 runs in 73 Tests and 4,162 runs in ODI cricket with an uncanny technique and is hailed as one of the greatest batsmen ever to have graced the cricket field. Smith has now revealed the reason behind his unusual stance, which sees his back-foot get planted in the line of off-stump. Speaking of his unorthodox batting stance, Smith said that his body posture depends on the bowler he is facing and how the wicket is playing on that particular day. However, it is mainly to limit the way of getting dismissed for Smith. Talking about his open batting stance, Smith, said in a podcast hosted by Rajasthan Royals: “It depends on who’s bowling, how is the wicket playing, how I gonna score and stuff like that or how people are trying to get me out, probably that determines how open I am or otherwise how closed I am. ALSO READ: COVID-19 Fight: Gavaskar contributes Rs 59 lakh, Pujara, Kashyap join list of donors “But my general stance where my back foot is going to almost off stump or maybe even outside at stages, I know that anything outside my eyeline isn’t hitting the stumps,” he said while adding, “For me, you shouldn’t get out if the ball is not hitting the stumps, so that is just a trick from me when I first started doing it, just limiting the ways I get out,” he explained. However, Smith has been trapped LBW and experts have blamed his uncanny batting stance for the reason behind the frequency of him getting out in that fashion. ALSO READ: Australian players too scared to sledge Virat Kohli or Indian players due to IPL deals: Michael Clarke “Sometimes, I get trapped in front but I’m okay with that at stages, knowing that if it is outside my eyeline, I don’t need to try and play the ball, I can just leave that,” he said. Smith, who was out of cricket action for 12 months after a ban imposed by Cricket Australia for his role in the Cape Town ball-tampering scandal in 2018, was the highest run-scorer in 2019 when it comes to Test cricket. He went on to score as many as 589 runs in the Ashes 2019 at a whopping average of 147.25 laced with two hundred and a double century.

What is the reason behind Steve Smith's unorthodox batting stance? World's no. 1 Test batsman explains

Before the COVID-19 pandemic hit the world hard, Liverpool were at the top of the Premier League table by a comfortable 25-point margin over defending champions and second-placed Manchester City. The Reds were just two wins away from lifting their first Premier League title since 1990 but the coronavirus pandemic left the sporting calendar shattered and Liverpool’s dream of lifting the coveted trophy in balance.

While speculations were rife that Liverpool might be denied of a league title if the Premier League is not completed, UEFA chief Aleksander Ceferin has said that he doesn’t “see a way Liverpool could be left without a title” even if the league is not completed.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jurgen-klopp-considers-coutinhos-transfer-as-difficult-decision-by-liverpool-291156" hreflang="en">Jurgen Klopp considers Coutinho's transfer as 'difficult' decision by Liverpool</a>

Ceferin said that if by any chance the league is not completed, they will have to find a way to declare final results while declaring a champion while again emphasizing that he “cannot imagine a scenario” where Liverpool would be crowned champions.

He told Slovenian publication EkipaSN: "I can't see a way Liverpool could be left without a title.

"If the Premier League resumes play, Liverpool will almost certainly win the title. Theoretically, it's not all over, but practically Liverpool are on the verge of it.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jurgen-klopp-considers-coutinhos-transfer-as-difficult-decision-by-liverpool-291156" hreflang="en">Jurgen Klopp considers Coutinho's transfer as 'difficult' decision by Liverpool</a>

"If by any chance the play will not resume, we still have to find a way to declare final results, to declare champions. And again I cannot see, I cannot imagine a scenario, in which the champions would not be Liverpool. I understand the fans will be disappointed if it happens in an empty stadium or even in the league offices, but I believe, they will get the title one way or another," Ceferin added.

While the Premier League has been suspended indefinitely due to COVID-19 pandemic, the authorities are determined to complete the season even if it means to alter dates of the transfer window or cut short the season break before the start of 2021-22 season. 
&nbsp;

Before the COVID-19 pandemic hit the world hard, Liverpool were at the top of the Premier League table by a comfortable 25-point margin over defending champions and second-placed Manchester City.

Before the COVID-19 pandemic hit the world hard, Liverpool were at the top of the Premier League table by a comfortable 25-point margin over defending champions and second-placed Manchester City. The Reds were just two wins away from lifting their first Premier League title since 1990 but the coronavirus pandemic left the sporting calendar shattered and Liverpool’s dream of lifting the coveted trophy in balance. While speculations were rife that Liverpool might be denied of a league title if the Premier League is not completed, UEFA chief Aleksander Ceferin has said that he doesn’t “see a way Liverpool could be left without a title” even if the league is not completed. ALSO READ: Jurgen Klopp considers Coutinho's transfer as 'difficult' decision by Liverpool Ceferin said that if by any chance the league is not completed, they will have to find a way to declare final results while declaring a champion while again emphasizing that he “cannot imagine a scenario” where Liverpool would be crowned champions. He told Slovenian publication EkipaSN: "I can't see a way Liverpool could be left without a title. "If the Premier League resumes play, Liverpool will almost certainly win the title. Theoretically, it's not all over, but practically Liverpool are on the verge of it. ALSO READ: Jurgen Klopp considers Coutinho's transfer as 'difficult' decision by Liverpool "If by any chance the play will not resume, we still have to find a way to declare final results, to declare champions. And again I cannot see, I cannot imagine a scenario, in which the champions would not be Liverpool. I understand the fans will be disappointed if it happens in an empty stadium or even in the league offices, but I believe, they will get the title one way or another," Ceferin added. While the Premier League has been suspended indefinitely due to COVID-19 pandemic, the authorities are determined to complete the season even if it means to alter dates of the transfer window or cut short the season break before the start of 2021-22 season.

Can't imagine a scenario where Liverpool won't be crowned Premier League champions: UEFA chief Aleksander Ceferin

The Olympic flame, which was lit in Greece and was on public display in the northeastern Fukushima region in Japan since last week, will be removed from display in Japan, officials confirmed on Thursday with the host of the Games bracing for a state of emergency due to COVID-19. The coronavirus pandemic had earlier forced the historic postponement of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.&nbsp;

With COVID-19 cases climbing in Japan, the Olympic organisers have decided to shelve the Olympic flame, which arrived in Japan on March 20 for a torch relay originally scheduled to start on March 26 and conclude at the Olympics opening ceremony on July 24.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/coronavirus-not-an-opportunity-for-athletes-to-dope-wada-president-291092" hreflang="en">Coronavirus not an opportunity for athletes to dope: WADA president</a>

"Originally we wanted to hold the public display until the end of April. But considering recent developments, we decided to stop," said a Tokyo 2020 organising committee spokesman.

Earlier, to keep the Olympic spirit alive in Japan, the organisers had decided to keep the flame in a lantern in Fukushima, where the relay was going to commence.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/as-bundesliga-clubs-resume-training-a-debate-over-fairness-and-fitness-291089" hreflang="en">As Bundesliga clubs resume training, a debate over fairness and fitness</a>

The Tokyo 2020 organising committee spokesman further said that organisers have no immediate plan to keep it on public display while avoiding public gathering around the storage location.

The flame arrived in Japan amid a muted welcome in front select officials and guests after plans to invite 200 school-going kids were scrapped.

The Olympic flame, which was lit in Greece and was on public display in the northeastern Fukushima region in Japan since last week, will be removed from display in Japan, officials confirmed on Thursday with the host of the Games bracing for a state of emergency due to COVID-19.

The Olympic flame, which was lit in Greece and was on public display in the northeastern Fukushima region in Japan since last week, will be removed from display in Japan, officials confirmed on Thursday with the host of the Games bracing for a state of emergency due to COVID-19. The coronavirus pandemic had earlier forced the historic postponement of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. With COVID-19 cases climbing in Japan, the Olympic organisers have decided to shelve the Olympic flame, which arrived in Japan on March 20 for a torch relay originally scheduled to start on March 26 and conclude at the Olympics opening ceremony on July 24. ALSO READ: Coronavirus not an opportunity for athletes to dope: WADA president "Originally we wanted to hold the public display until the end of April. But considering recent developments, we decided to stop," said a Tokyo 2020 organising committee spokesman. Earlier, to keep the Olympic spirit alive in Japan, the organisers had decided to keep the flame in a lantern in Fukushima, where the relay was going to commence. ALSO READ: As Bundesliga clubs resume training, a debate over fairness and fitness The Tokyo 2020 organising committee spokesman further said that organisers have no immediate plan to keep it on public display while avoiding public gathering around the storage location. The flame arrived in Japan amid a muted welcome in front select officials and guests after plans to invite 200 school-going kids were scrapped.

Japan ends Olympic flame display due to COVID-19 threat

Veteran off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has said that he won’t mind playing the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 behind closed doors, in front of empty stands, as it will allow every fan to watch the tournament on their television sets.

Harbhajan, who plays for Chennai Super Kings, is of the view that the organisers have prioritise players and staff’s safety by ensuring that the stadiums, hotels, flights are properly sanitized while adding a lot of lives will be on the line if IPL 2020 takes place. &nbsp;

<o:p>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/as-bundesliga-clubs-resume-training-a-debate-over-fairness-and-fitness-291089" hreflang="en">As Bundesliga clubs resume training, a debate over fairness and fitness</a>

"Spectators are important, but if the situation arises, I don't mind playing without them. Yes, as a player I won't get the vibe, but this will ensure that every fan will get to watch IPL on their TV," Harbhajan told the host broadcasters.

"We will have to be cautious about everything and should prioritise players' safety by ensuring that the match venues, team hotels, flights are properly sanitized. A lot of lives are on the line so we should organise IPL when everything is fine," he added.

IPL 2020, which was earlier scheduled to start from March 29, was suspended till April 15 in the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak in the country. And given the current nationwide lockdown, it is unlikely that the cash-rich tournament will take place.

<o:p>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-a-good-idea-waqar-younis-on-cricket-in-empty-stadiums-amid-covid-19-pandemic-290948" hreflang="en">‘Not a good idea...' - Waqar Younis on cricket in empty stadiums amid COVID-19 pandemic</a>

"I miss matches the most, was hoping that I would get to play 17 matches (including finals) after a year's gap. I miss our visits to the ground, the hordes of fans waiting to greet us, the bikes that used to ride along our bus and am sure that every fan is missing this as well," Harbhajan said.

"I hope that IPL happens soon, till then I will keep myself fit," quipped the 39-year-old veteran of 103 Tests.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p></o:p>

Veteran off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has said that he won’t mind playing the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 behind closed doors, in front of empty stands, as it will allow every fan to watch the tournament on their television sets.

Veteran off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has said that he won’t mind playing the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 behind closed doors, in front of empty stands, as it will allow every fan to watch the tournament on their television sets. Harbhajan, who plays for Chennai Super Kings, is of the view that the organisers have prioritise players and staff’s safety by ensuring that the stadiums, hotels, flights are properly sanitized while adding a lot of lives will be on the line if IPL 2020 takes place. ALSO READ: As Bundesliga clubs resume training, a debate over fairness and fitness "Spectators are important, but if the situation arises, I don't mind playing without them. Yes, as a player I won't get the vibe, but this will ensure that every fan will get to watch IPL on their TV," Harbhajan told the host broadcasters. "We will have to be cautious about everything and should prioritise players' safety by ensuring that the match venues, team hotels, flights are properly sanitized. A lot of lives are on the line so we should organise IPL when everything is fine," he added. IPL 2020, which was earlier scheduled to start from March 29, was suspended till April 15 in the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak in the country. And given the current nationwide lockdown, it is unlikely that the cash-rich tournament will take place. ALSO READ: ‘Not a good idea...' - Waqar Younis on cricket in empty stadiums amid COVID-19 pandemic "I miss matches the most, was hoping that I would get to play 17 matches (including finals) after a year's gap. I miss our visits to the ground, the hordes of fans waiting to greet us, the bikes that used to ride along our bus and am sure that every fan is missing this as well," Harbhajan said. "I hope that IPL happens soon, till then I will keep myself fit," quipped the 39-year-old veteran of 103 Tests.

Harbhajan Singh fine with the idea of IPL 2020 behind closed doors

Chinese Super League (CSL) players were under growing pressure Tuesday to take a pay cut in line with the likes of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, as coronavirus hits football hard.

The CSL has some of the best-paid coaches and players in the world with Shanghai SIPG's Brazilian attacking midfielder Oscar reportedly earning nearly $30 million a year.

However, while many CSL players have donated masks and other equipment in the fight against the pandemic, which has caused all football to stop, there is no unified response.

The CSL season was supposed to begin on February 22 but was indefinitely postponed because of the outbreak, which began in China in December before spreading worldwide.&nbsp;

The campaign is unlikely to begin before late May at the earliest even though China says that the number of locally transmitted infections and deaths has dwindled.

State-run Xinhua news agency published a lengthy article debating whether CSL clubs should follow Messi's Barcelona and Ronaldo's Juventus in temporarily cutting salaries by as much as 70 percent.

Bayern Munich's players have also agreed to take a pay cut, as have those at other clubs in the Bundesliga, while a similar argument is raging in the English Premier League.

A video conference involving CSL clubs on Thursday will likely see salary cuts discussed, the Beijing News said.

Other media went further, saying that a salary reduction will definitely be broached in Chinese Football Association (CFA) talks this week.&nbsp;

Xinhua cited online polls of fans showing that the overwhelming majority &nbsp;-- in one instance 90 percent of respondents -- were in favour a pay cut.

But it noted that some fans are against reducing salaries because, unlike in suspended European leagues, CSL teams are already in training for the new season even though it has no start date.

Xinhua quoted one CSL club as being "inclined to cut pay" but is awaiting guidance from the CFA and FIFA.

"All clubs are watching, the problem is that no one wants to be the first," the news agency cited another as saying.

An opinion piece in the Oriental Sports Daily argued that with almost all industries badly affected by coronavirus, it was unfair to single out footballers.

"Many people (in China) are very resentful of Chinese football, saying that these people have taken so much money... and should use their salaries to pay more to scientists and doctors, but this is a misunderstanding," wrote Ge Aiping.

"I haven't seen any news of a Chinese Super League player who proposed a voluntary pay cut.

"(But) money is not easy to earn and if you want to give it out, you really need to struggle with yourself."

Chinese football sprang to prominence in recent years by dishing out world-leading wages to foreign players and coaches, but the CFA has since reined in spending.

Chinese Super League (CSL) players were under growing pressure Tuesday to take a pay cut in line with the likes of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, as coronavirus hits football hard.

Chinese Super League (CSL) players were under growing pressure Tuesday to take a pay cut in line with the likes of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, as coronavirus hits football hard. The CSL has some of the best-paid coaches and players in the world with Shanghai SIPG's Brazilian attacking midfielder Oscar reportedly earning nearly $30 million a year. However, while many CSL players have donated masks and other equipment in the fight against the pandemic, which has caused all football to stop, there is no unified response. The CSL season was supposed to begin on February 22 but was indefinitely postponed because of the outbreak, which began in China in December before spreading worldwide. The campaign is unlikely to begin before late May at the earliest even though China says that the number of locally transmitted infections and deaths has dwindled. State-run Xinhua news agency published a lengthy article debating whether CSL clubs should follow Messi's Barcelona and Ronaldo's Juventus in temporarily cutting salaries by as much as 70 percent. Bayern Munich's players have also agreed to take a pay cut, as have those at other clubs in the Bundesliga, while a similar argument is raging in the English Premier League. A video conference involving CSL clubs on Thursday will likely see salary cuts discussed, the Beijing News said. Other media went further, saying that a salary reduction will definitely be broached in Chinese Football Association (CFA) talks this week. Xinhua cited online polls of fans showing that the overwhelming majority -- in one instance 90 percent of respondents -- were in favour a pay cut. But it noted that some fans are against reducing salaries because, unlike in suspended European leagues, CSL teams are already in training for the new season even though it has no start date. Xinhua quoted one CSL club as being "inclined to cut pay" but is awaiting guidance from the CFA and FIFA. "All clubs are watching, the problem is that no one wants to be the first," the news agency cited another as saying. An opinion piece in the Oriental Sports Daily argued that with almost all industries badly affected by coronavirus, it was unfair to single out footballers. "Many people (in China) are very resentful of Chinese football, saying that these people have taken so much money... and should use their salaries to pay more to scientists and doctors, but this is a misunderstanding," wrote Ge Aiping. "I haven't seen any news of a Chinese Super League player who proposed a voluntary pay cut. "(But) money is not easy to earn and if you want to give it out, you really need to struggle with yourself." Chinese football sprang to prominence in recent years by dishing out world-leading wages to foreign players and coaches, but the CFA has since reined in spending.

Chinese football agonises over wage cuts in face of coronavirus

French Ligue 1 club Reims were on Sunday in mourning for long-serving club doctor Bernard Gonzalez who committed suicide after being diagnosed with coronavirus, sources confirmed.

"Devastated, Reims cries for Bernard Gonzalez," said a statement released by the Ligue 1 club.

"Not just the club but also hundreds of men and women in Reims."

Contacted by AFP, Reims mayor Arnaud Robinet said he had been made aware of the suicide of the 60-year-old, who had worked at the club for over 20 years, by the local prefecture.

"I was told Doctor Gonzalez had left a note in which he mentioned that he had tested positive for COVID-19."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Médecin. Artiste. Stadiste. 
Docteur Gonzalez. 
<a href="https://t.co/Wlw6Bbr7gc">pic.twitter.com/Wlw6Bbr7gc</a>
— Stade de Reims (@StadeDeReims) <a href="https://twitter.com/StadeDeReims/status/1246878278608183298?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

A medical source also confirmed to AFP the existence of this letter but added that the doctor had appeared "to be in good shape two days ago".

"I am shocked by his death because he was someone I had known for many years," said Robinet.

"No only was he the club doctor, but he was also the GP of many people in Reims. He was known for his human and professional qualities.

"He will be missed by the football family and all those in Reims who met him."

Reims club president Jean-Pierre Caillot said he was "stunned" by the news.&nbsp;

"This pandemic has struck Reims in the heart. A great personality and great professional of the sport has left us," said Caillot.

More than 8,000 people have died from the coronavirus in France.

French Ligue 1 club Reims were on Sunday in mourning for long-serving club doctor Bernard Gonzalez who committed suicide after being diagnosed with coronavirus, sources confirmed.

French Ligue 1 club Reims were on Sunday in mourning for long-serving club doctor Bernard Gonzalez who committed suicide after being diagnosed with coronavirus, sources confirmed. "Devastated, Reims cries for Bernard Gonzalez," said a statement released by the Ligue 1 club. "Not just the club but also hundreds of men and women in Reims." Contacted by AFP, Reims mayor Arnaud Robinet said he had been made aware of the suicide of the 60-year-old, who had worked at the club for over 20 years, by the local prefecture. "I was told Doctor Gonzalez had left a note in which he mentioned that he had tested positive for COVID-19." Médecin. Artiste. Stadiste. Docteur Gonzalez. pic.twitter.com/Wlw6Bbr7gc — Stade de Reims (@StadeDeReims) April 5, 2020 × A medical source also confirmed to AFP the existence of this letter but added that the doctor had appeared "to be in good shape two days ago". "I am shocked by his death because he was someone I had known for many years," said Robinet. "No only was he the club doctor, but he was also the GP of many people in Reims. He was known for his human and professional qualities. "He will be missed by the football family and all those in Reims who met him." Reims club president Jean-Pierre Caillot said he was "stunned" by the news. "This pandemic has struck Reims in the heart. A great personality and great professional of the sport has left us," said Caillot. More than 8,000 people have died from the coronavirus in France.

French club doctor 'commits suicide' after coronavirus diagnosis

The planning has gone out of the window thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic but hope is intact for India's professional boxing star Vijender Singh, who is optimistic of resuming his currently on-hold career in the second half of the year.

Unbeaten in the circuit with 12 wins, Vijender is contracted with Hall of Famer Bob Arum's Top Rank Promotions in the US, which has been ravaged by the deadly outbreak with the death toll nearing 10,000.

"I was supposed to fight in May but that is cancelled for now because of the current situation. But I am hopeful things will improve and I will get to fight later in the year. I think it will work out," the 34-year-old, who holds the distinction of being India's first Olympic medallist in boxing, told PTI.

"Obviously, I am at a loss but there is nothing that can be done. So, you just make peace with it and wait for things to normalise," he added.

The 34-year-old said he is continuing to train at home in Delhi to stay in shape.

"I have everything at home to ensure that I don't need to step out. I do my training on my own, which is not unusual because I have the luxury of a trainer only when I am in England," he said.

Vijender's trainer is Manchester-based Lee Beard, who joins him a few weeks before his fights.

"The idea is to keep my body in shape for whenever the action resumes. I am doing it at home because in any case, you cannot move out," he said.

The boxer is also an active politician and fought Lok Sabha elections on a Congress ticket last year.

Vijender has been actively questioning the government response to the pandemic, which has led to over 100 deaths so far in the country. He said it is not just his right but also his responsibility as a public figure.

"I have spoken to doctors who tell me that we should be testing more people. I hope it is being done. We can only hope that the situation doesn't get worse, look at what's happening around the world, it's scary," he said.

"So I do raise questions on how we are doing. We all should even if it comes with a bit of trolling, we should not stop asking for better," he added.

And it's not that he isn't doing his bit in the crisis.

"I avoid getting into mass-feeding of people because that would ensure that social distancing goes for a toss, defeating the whole purpose of a lockdown. So what I do is ensure that ration reaches needy families," he said.

"I am directly in touch with people and reach out wherever there is a requirement," he said.

The global COVID-19 death toll is inching towards 70,000.

Close to 13,00,000 positive cases have wreaked havoc on the health care systems across the world with no clear breakthrough yet on the treatment of the deadly disease.

The planning has gone out of the window thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic but hope is intact for India's professional boxing star Vijender Singh, who is optimistic of resuming his currently on-hold career in the second half of the year.

The planning has gone out of the window thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic but hope is intact for India's professional boxing star Vijender Singh, who is optimistic of resuming his currently on-hold career in the second half of the year. Unbeaten in the circuit with 12 wins, Vijender is contracted with Hall of Famer Bob Arum's Top Rank Promotions in the US, which has been ravaged by the deadly outbreak with the death toll nearing 10,000. "I was supposed to fight in May but that is cancelled for now because of the current situation. But I am hopeful things will improve and I will get to fight later in the year. I think it will work out," the 34-year-old, who holds the distinction of being India's first Olympic medallist in boxing, told PTI. "Obviously, I am at a loss but there is nothing that can be done. So, you just make peace with it and wait for things to normalise," he added. The 34-year-old said he is continuing to train at home in Delhi to stay in shape. "I have everything at home to ensure that I don't need to step out. I do my training on my own, which is not unusual because I have the luxury of a trainer only when I am in England," he said. Vijender's trainer is Manchester-based Lee Beard, who joins him a few weeks before his fights. "The idea is to keep my body in shape for whenever the action resumes. I am doing it at home because in any case, you cannot move out," he said. The boxer is also an active politician and fought Lok Sabha elections on a Congress ticket last year. Vijender has been actively questioning the government response to the pandemic, which has led to over 100 deaths so far in the country. He said it is not just his right but also his responsibility as a public figure. "I have spoken to doctors who tell me that we should be testing more people. I hope it is being done. We can only hope that the situation doesn't get worse, look at what's happening around the world, it's scary," he said. "So I do raise questions on how we are doing. We all should even if it comes with a bit of trolling, we should not stop asking for better," he added. And it's not that he isn't doing his bit in the crisis. "I avoid getting into mass-feeding of people because that would ensure that social distancing goes for a toss, defeating the whole purpose of a lockdown. So what I do is ensure that ration reaches needy families," he said. "I am directly in touch with people and reach out wherever there is a requirement," he said. The global COVID-19 death toll is inching towards 70,000. Close to 13,00,000 positive cases have wreaked havoc on the health care systems across the world with no clear breakthrough yet on the treatment of the deadly disease.

Vijender Singh hopes for pro career to resume in second half of 2020

Bayern Munich said Sunday that players will return to training on Monday for the first time since the Bundesliga was suspended due to the coronavirus.

Bayern led the table by four points when the season was halted on March 13.

"The Bayern Munich first team will return to training in small groups from Monday, April 6," said a statement from the club.

"This will&nbsp;be done in coordination with government policy and the relevant authorities.&nbsp;

"It goes without saying that all hygiene regulations will be strictly observed."

German football league officials had already advised a break in training until Sunday at the earliest.

Bayern said that training will be held in private with no members of the public allowed.

"In order to further slow the spread of the coronavirus, Bayern asks fans to continue to follow the instructions of the authorities and therefore please do not come to the Bayern training ground," added the statement.

More than 1,300 people have died in Germany from the coronavirus.

Bayern Munich said Sunday that players will return to training on Monday for the first time since the Bundesliga was suspended due to the coronavirus. Bayern led the table by four points when the season was halted on March 13.

Bayern Munich said Sunday that players will return to training on Monday for the first time since the Bundesliga was suspended due to the coronavirus. Bayern led the table by four points when the season was halted on March 13. "The Bayern Munich first team will return to training in small groups from Monday, April 6," said a statement from the club. "This will be done in coordination with government policy and the relevant authorities. "It goes without saying that all hygiene regulations will be strictly observed." German football league officials had already advised a break in training until Sunday at the earliest. Bayern said that training will be held in private with no members of the public allowed. "In order to further slow the spread of the coronavirus, Bayern asks fans to continue to follow the instructions of the authorities and therefore please do not come to the Bayern training ground," added the statement. More than 1,300 people have died in Germany from the coronavirus.

Bayern Munich to resume training on Monday

The shooting World Cup scheduled to be held in the national capital in May was on Monday cancelled owing to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The World Cup, originally scheduled to be held from March 15-26, was postponed to May barely four days before the start of the event.

"Due to COVID-19 pandemic the New Delhi Organising Committee has been forced to cancel Rifle/Pistol and Shotgun World Cups. Both of these were due to take place in New Delhi," the sport's world governing body -- ISSF -- said in a statement.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The 2020 ISSF World Cups in New Delhi and Baku have been cancelled<a href="https://t.co/wCVoxpLYeG">https://t.co/wCVoxpLYeG</a> <a href="https://t.co/JWaezNuhjc">pic.twitter.com/JWaezNuhjc</a>
— ISSF (@ISSF_Shooting) <a href="https://twitter.com/ISSF_Shooting/status/1247143780874104834?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 6, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

It was decided to hold the tournament in two parts -- Rifle and Pistol competitions from May 5-12, while Shotgun competitions from June 2-9.

However, considering the situation, the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) decided to cancel the tournament.

PTI had earlier reported that the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) was under pressure to not organise the tournament in the prevailing circumstances.

The shooting World Cup scheduled to be held in the national capital in May was on Monday cancelled owing to the COVID-19 pandemic. The World Cup, originally scheduled to be held from March 15-26, was postponed to May barely four days before the start of the event.

The shooting World Cup scheduled to be held in the national capital in May was on Monday cancelled owing to the COVID-19 pandemic. The World Cup, originally scheduled to be held from March 15-26, was postponed to May barely four days before the start of the event. "Due to COVID-19 pandemic the New Delhi Organising Committee has been forced to cancel Rifle/Pistol and Shotgun World Cups. Both of these were due to take place in New Delhi," the sport's world governing body -- ISSF -- said in a statement. The 2020 ISSF World Cups in New Delhi and Baku have been cancelledhttps://t.co/wCVoxpLYeG pic.twitter.com/JWaezNuhjc — ISSF (@ISSF_Shooting) April 6, 2020 × It was decided to hold the tournament in two parts -- Rifle and Pistol competitions from May 5-12, while Shotgun competitions from June 2-9. However, considering the situation, the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) decided to cancel the tournament. PTI had earlier reported that the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) was under pressure to not organise the tournament in the prevailing circumstances.

Delhi shooting World Cup cancelled due to COVID-19 pandemic

British boxing great Nigel Benn revealed on Instagram one of his brothers Mark has died of coronavirus.

The 56-year-old -- former world champion at two weights -- said Mark had been the "Joker" of the family.

It came as the number of UK coronavirus-related deaths climbed by 621 to 4,934 and infections rose by 5,903 to 47,806.&nbsp;

"My brother Mark passed Away 2day (Covid 19), as we all were growing up Mark was the Joker of the Benn house hold," he wrote.

"May he Rest In Peace love u Mark.'"

Benn -- whose 23-year-old son Conor is a promising pugilist with an unblemished record -- was one of seven boys but lost his older brother Andy when he fell out of a window aged just eight.

Benn was dubbed&nbsp;the 'Dark Destroyer' for his aggressive style and enjoyed a fierce rivalry with compatriots Chris Eubank and Michael Watson.

Benn was WBO middleweight title in 1990 and then went on to become WBC super-middleweight champion holding the belt between 1992 and 1996 -- losing his crown to South African Thulani Malinga.&nbsp;

He retired from the ring in 1996 after twice failing to wrest the WBO super-middleweight title from Irishman Stephen Collins.

Benn is not the first from the sport in Britain to lose a relative due to the coronavirus.

The grandmother and father of British light-heavyweight Anthony Yarde died within a few days of each other.

The 28-year-old made an emotional appeal to the public to "just stay home" to avoid the risk of spreading the virus.

"It's serious!" Yarde wrote on social media.

"People are still going out when they don't need to. I know there's a lot of opinions about Covid-19 and I have mine but I just know opinions ain't worth risking your life and others. Just stay home."

British boxing great Nigel Benn revealed on Instagram one of his brothers Mark has died of coronavirus. The 56-year-old -- former world champion at two weights -- said Mark had been the "Joker" of the family.

British boxing great Nigel Benn revealed on Instagram one of his brothers Mark has died of coronavirus. The 56-year-old -- former world champion at two weights -- said Mark had been the "Joker" of the family. It came as the number of UK coronavirus-related deaths climbed by 621 to 4,934 and infections rose by 5,903 to 47,806. "My brother Mark passed Away 2day (Covid 19), as we all were growing up Mark was the Joker of the Benn house hold," he wrote. "May he Rest In Peace love u Mark.'" Benn -- whose 23-year-old son Conor is a promising pugilist with an unblemished record -- was one of seven boys but lost his older brother Andy when he fell out of a window aged just eight. Benn was dubbed the 'Dark Destroyer' for his aggressive style and enjoyed a fierce rivalry with compatriots Chris Eubank and Michael Watson. Benn was WBO middleweight title in 1990 and then went on to become WBC super-middleweight champion holding the belt between 1992 and 1996 -- losing his crown to South African Thulani Malinga. He retired from the ring in 1996 after twice failing to wrest the WBO super-middleweight title from Irishman Stephen Collins. Benn is not the first from the sport in Britain to lose a relative due to the coronavirus. The grandmother and father of British light-heavyweight Anthony Yarde died within a few days of each other. The 28-year-old made an emotional appeal to the public to "just stay home" to avoid the risk of spreading the virus. "It's serious!" Yarde wrote on social media. "People are still going out when they don't need to. I know there's a lot of opinions about Covid-19 and I have mine but I just know opinions ain't worth risking your life and others. Just stay home."

British boxing great Nigel Benn reveals coronavirus heartbreak

The entire Indian sports fraternity on Sunday came forward while joining millions of fellow countrymen in a bid to show solidarity in the battle against COVID-19 and thank the healthcare professionals and others who are in the front line of the defence in the battle against the dreaded virus. <o:p></o:p>

From cricketers such as Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli, Virender Sehwag, Suresh Raina, Harbhajan Singh, to name a few, to six-time Boxing World Champions MC Mary Kam and PV Sindhu – everyone came out in their respective balconies and gardens and lit diyas and candles at 9 pm for 9 minutes on Sunday to show unity against the battle against COVID-19 as appealed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. 
<o:p></o:p>

Some of them took to social media platforms to share their photos and videos while lighting up diyas and candles on Sunday evening. <o:p></o:p>

"My family &amp; I thank the selfless #SanitationWarriors cleaning our surroundings &amp; hospitals, disinfecting affected areas &amp; thus keeping the virus at bay. Let's also reignite our pledge to take care of our elders, the most vulnerable - by ensuring their physical &amp; mental wellness," Tendulkar wrote while sharing a family picture with lights.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/vijender-singh-hopes-for-pro-career-to-resume-in-second-half-of-2020-290808" hreflang="en">Vijender Singh hopes for pro career to resume in second half of 2020</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
My family &amp; I thank the selfless <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SanitationWarriors?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SanitationWarriors</a> cleaning our surroundings &amp; hospitals, disinfecting affected areas &amp; thus keeping the virus at bay. Let’s also reignite our pledge to take care of our elders, the most vulnerable - by ensuring their physical &amp; mental wellness. <a href="https://t.co/tTheS9oO4I">pic.twitter.com/tTheS9oO4I</a>
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1246831577364983809?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/9%E0%A4%AC%E0%A4%9C%E0%A5%879%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%A8%E0%A4%9F?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#9बजे9मिनट</a>, let’s stand is solidarity &amp; beat this terrible time the whole world is going through. We can do it India! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID2019</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/9baje9mintues?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#9baje9mintues</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> <a href="https://t.co/gyVOGWG2cw">pic.twitter.com/gyVOGWG2cw</a>
— Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRaina/status/1246825186508386305?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
In solidarity with each and every single person who is playing their part. We are all in this together and shall overcome this soon. 
Om Shantih Shantih Shantih<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/9%E0%A4%AC%E0%A4%9C%E0%A5%879%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%A8%E0%A4%9F?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#9बजे9मिनट</a> <a href="https://t.co/Q32a1cZRpa">pic.twitter.com/Q32a1cZRpa</a>
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) <a href="https://twitter.com/virendersehwag/status/1246825634560540673?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
A prayer in unity does make a difference. Pray for every being and stand together <a href="https://t.co/EcmiX7EcoA">https://t.co/EcmiX7EcoA</a>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1246837211972030467?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
#letstogetherfightcovid19#9pm9min <a href="https://t.co/oCvFSWLN83">pic.twitter.com/oCvFSWLN83</a>
— Pvsindhu (@Pvsindhu1) <a href="https://twitter.com/Pvsindhu1/status/1246840895439134720?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
In solidarity toward <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaFightsCoronavirus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaFightsCoronavirus</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/9MinutesForIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#9MinutesForIndia</a>. <a href="https://t.co/y2OIFiGWTH">pic.twitter.com/y2OIFiGWTH</a>
— Mary Kom (@MangteC) <a href="https://twitter.com/MangteC/status/1246830051976331265?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
All for one and one for all <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/9pm9mins?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#9pm9mins</a> <a href="https://t.co/MaXlkUVb5d">pic.twitter.com/MaXlkUVb5d</a>
— Mayank Agarwal (@mayankcricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/mayankcricket/status/1246835737976131586?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/9pm9minutes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#9pm9minutes</a> <a href="https://t.co/PrgZP3zCWD">pic.twitter.com/PrgZP3zCWD</a>
— Saina Nehwal (@NSaina) <a href="https://twitter.com/NSaina/status/1246822084149305351?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-club-doctor-commits-suicide-after-coronavirus-diagnosis-290805" hreflang="en">French club doctor 'commits suicide' after coronavirus diagnosis</a>

As many as 40 sportspersons on Friday had held a video-conference meeting with PM Modi to discuss the situation surrounding COVID-19 virus. Many of them gave their suggestions to the Indian prime minister and mutually agreed that they need to spread more awareness regarding the dreaded virus on their respective social media handles. &nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

<o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, the number of coronavirus cases in India saw a sharp spike death toll, thus far, crossed the 100-mark, whereas the total number of positive cases crossed 4000.<o:p></o:p>

The entire Indian sports fraternity on Sunday came forward while joining millions of fellow countrymen in a bid to show solidarity in the battle against COVID-19 and thank the healthcare professionals and others who are in the front line of the defence in the battle against the dreaded virus.

The entire Indian sports fraternity on Sunday came forward while joining millions of fellow countrymen in a bid to show solidarity in the battle against COVID-19 and thank the healthcare professionals and others who are in the front line of the defence in the battle against the dreaded virus. From cricketers such as Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli, Virender Sehwag, Suresh Raina, Harbhajan Singh, to name a few, to six-time Boxing World Champions MC Mary Kam and PV Sindhu – everyone came out in their respective balconies and gardens and lit diyas and candles at 9 pm for 9 minutes on Sunday to show unity against the battle against COVID-19 as appealed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Some of them took to social media platforms to share their photos and videos while lighting up diyas and candles on Sunday evening. "My family & I thank the selfless #SanitationWarriors cleaning our surroundings & hospitals, disinfecting affected areas & thus keeping the virus at bay. Let's also reignite our pledge to take care of our elders, the most vulnerable - by ensuring their physical & mental wellness," Tendulkar wrote while sharing a family picture with lights. ALSO READ: Vijender Singh hopes for pro career to resume in second half of 2020 My family & I thank the selfless #SanitationWarriors cleaning our surroundings & hospitals, disinfecting affected areas & thus keeping the virus at bay. Let’s also reignite our pledge to take care of our elders, the most vulnerable - by ensuring their physical & mental wellness. pic.twitter.com/tTheS9oO4I — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) April 5, 2020 × #9बजे9मिनट, let’s stand is solidarity & beat this terrible time the whole world is going through. We can do it India! #COVID2019 #9baje9mintues @PMOIndia @narendramodi pic.twitter.com/gyVOGWG2cw — Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) April 5, 2020 × In solidarity with each and every single person who is playing their part. We are all in this together and shall overcome this soon. Om Shantih Shantih Shantih#9बजे9मिनट pic.twitter.com/Q32a1cZRpa — Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) April 5, 2020 × A prayer in unity does make a difference. Pray for every being and stand together https://t.co/EcmiX7EcoA — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) April 5, 2020 × #letstogetherfightcovid19#9pm9min pic.twitter.com/oCvFSWLN83 — Pvsindhu (@Pvsindhu1) April 5, 2020 × In solidarity toward #IndiaFightsCoronavirus #9MinutesForIndia. pic.twitter.com/y2OIFiGWTH — Mary Kom (@MangteC) April 5, 2020 × All for one and one for all #9pm9mins pic.twitter.com/MaXlkUVb5d — Mayank Agarwal (@mayankcricket) April 5, 2020 × #9pm9minutes pic.twitter.com/PrgZP3zCWD — Saina Nehwal (@NSaina) April 5, 2020 × ALSO READ: French club doctor 'commits suicide' after coronavirus diagnosis As many as 40 sportspersons on Friday had held a video-conference meeting with PM Modi to discuss the situation surrounding COVID-19 virus. Many of them gave their suggestions to the Indian prime minister and mutually agreed that they need to spread more awareness regarding the dreaded virus on their respective social media handles. Meanwhile, the number of coronavirus cases in India saw a sharp spike death toll, thus far, crossed the 100-mark, whereas the total number of positive cases crossed 4000.

From Virat Kohli, PV Sindhu to MC Mary Kom: Sports fraternity lights diyas, candles to show solidarity in fight against COVID-19

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday held a meeting, via video conferencing, with 40 top sportspersons from different sports and discussed the situation surrounding COVID-19 in India. Among the top 40 sportspersons to join the meeting with PM Modi were Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly, Virat Kohli, PV Sindhu, Mirabai Chanu, Hima Das, Mary Kom, among others.&nbsp;

This was the first time that PM Modi interacted with sports icons of India since the 21-day lockdown was enforced to curb the spread of the deadly virus in the country. With the COVID-19 virus spreading like a wildfire in the nation, PM Modi asked all the sportspersons to spread the message of social&nbsp;distancing in a bid to combat the dreaded virus.&nbsp;

The other prominent athletes included PT Usha, Pullela Gopichand, Vishwanathan Anand, Hima Das, Bajrang Punia, Rohit Sharma, Virender Sehwag, Yuvraj Singh, Manu Bhaker, Sharad Kumar, Ajay Thakur and Cheteshwar Pujara, among others.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Prime Minister Narendra Modi held meeting with 40 top sportspersons from various sports via video conferencing today, on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> situation in the country. <a href="https://t.co/NGzl4mL45x">pic.twitter.com/NGzl4mL45x</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1245957238193369088?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-virus-rewriting-history-books-in-tennis-mahesh-bhupathi-opens-up-on-wimbledon-cancellation-life-in-lockdown-and-more-290212" hreflang="en">Exclusive: 'Virus rewriting history books in tennis' - Mahesh Bhupathi opens up on Wimbledon cancellation, life in lockdown and more</a>

The likes of Ganguly, Tendulkar, Kohli, Sindhu, Mirabai Chanu&nbsp;and Hima Das offered their suggestions surrounding the COVID-19 situation in the country to PM Modi.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Prime Minister Narendra Modi held meeting with 40 top sportspersons, including Sachin Tendulkar, PV Sindhu and Hima Das, via video conferencing today, on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> situation in the country. <a href="https://t.co/eC4xKceL4a">pic.twitter.com/eC4xKceL4a</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1245958634028306432?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Meanwhile, earlier on Friday, PM Modi urged people to gather for a unique exercise on April 5 at 9 PM to display the unity in the fight against COVID-19. PM Modi asked everyone to turn off all the lights at 9 PM, on April 5, and light a diya, candle, torch or flashlight for 9 minutes as a display of unity in these tough times.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
From sharing videos that reaffirm the importance of fitness, helping the poor and needy, emphasising on social distancing as well as contributing to efforts such as PM-CARES, our sportspersons are doing excellent towards making India free from COVID-19.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1245987822525267968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-deepak-chahar-opens-up-on-life-in-lockdown-injuries-regaining-rhythm-and-love-for-guitar-289712" hreflang="en">EXCLUSIVE: Deepak Chahar opens up on life in lockdown, injuries, regaining rhythm and love for guitar</a>

"On this Sunday, April 5, we will challenge the darkness of coronavirus threat together. On April 5, at 9 pm, I need your 9 minutes. At 9 pm, turn off all the lights in your houses and light a Diya, candle, torch or flashlight for 9 minutes at your doors, or balcony," PM Modi said on Friday.

The sporting calendar has been shredded into pieces by the COVID-19 pandemic with almost all the major tournaments and events getting either cancelled or postponed in the wake of the deadly virus.&nbsp;

In India, the total number of positive cases has rapidly risen to 2,069, as of Thursday morning, according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare with the death toll now at 53.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday held a meeting, via video conferencing, with 40 top sportspersons from different sports and discussed the situation surrounding COVID-19 in India.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday held a meeting, via video conferencing, with 40 top sportspersons from different sports and discussed the situation surrounding COVID-19 in India. Among the top 40 sportspersons to join the meeting with PM Modi were Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly, Virat Kohli, PV Sindhu, Mirabai Chanu, Hima Das, Mary Kom, among others. This was the first time that PM Modi interacted with sports icons of India since the 21-day lockdown was enforced to curb the spread of the deadly virus in the country. With the COVID-19 virus spreading like a wildfire in the nation, PM Modi asked all the sportspersons to spread the message of social distancing in a bid to combat the dreaded virus. The other prominent athletes included PT Usha, Pullela Gopichand, Vishwanathan Anand, Hima Das, Bajrang Punia, Rohit Sharma, Virender Sehwag, Yuvraj Singh, Manu Bhaker, Sharad Kumar, Ajay Thakur and Cheteshwar Pujara, among others. Prime Minister Narendra Modi held meeting with 40 top sportspersons from various sports via video conferencing today, on #COVID19 situation in the country. pic.twitter.com/NGzl4mL45x — ANI (@ANI) April 3, 2020 × ALSO READ: Exclusive: 'Virus rewriting history books in tennis' - Mahesh Bhupathi opens up on Wimbledon cancellation, life in lockdown and more The likes of Ganguly, Tendulkar, Kohli, Sindhu, Mirabai Chanu and Hima Das offered their suggestions surrounding the COVID-19 situation in the country to PM Modi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi held meeting with 40 top sportspersons, including Sachin Tendulkar, PV Sindhu and Hima Das, via video conferencing today, on #COVID19 situation in the country. pic.twitter.com/eC4xKceL4a — ANI (@ANI) April 3, 2020 × Meanwhile, earlier on Friday, PM Modi urged people to gather for a unique exercise on April 5 at 9 PM to display the unity in the fight against COVID-19. PM Modi asked everyone to turn off all the lights at 9 PM, on April 5, and light a diya, candle, torch or flashlight for 9 minutes as a display of unity in these tough times. From sharing videos that reaffirm the importance of fitness, helping the poor and needy, emphasising on social distancing as well as contributing to efforts such as PM-CARES, our sportspersons are doing excellent towards making India free from COVID-19. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 3, 2020 × ALSO READ: EXCLUSIVE: Deepak Chahar opens up on life in lockdown, injuries, regaining rhythm and love for guitar "On this Sunday, April 5, we will challenge the darkness of coronavirus threat together. On April 5, at 9 pm, I need your 9 minutes. At 9 pm, turn off all the lights in your houses and light a Diya, candle, torch or flashlight for 9 minutes at your doors, or balcony," PM Modi said on Friday. The sporting calendar has been shredded into pieces by the COVID-19 pandemic with almost all the major tournaments and events getting either cancelled or postponed in the wake of the deadly virus. In India, the total number of positive cases has rapidly risen to 2,069, as of Thursday morning, according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare with the death toll now at 53.

PM Modi holds meeting with 40 sportspersons including Virat Kohli, Sachin Tendulkar, PV Sindhu to discuss COVID-19 situation in India

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has helped raise Rs 71 lakh through donations from its state affiliates and National Sports Federations (NSF) as a contribution towards the country's fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

"IOA is deeply grateful to its NSFs and state associations and other federation and bodies for extending their support and humble contributions towards the cause of our nation's fight against the COVID-19 pandemic," the IOA said in a statement issued by its Secretary General Rajeev Mehta.

"In these challenging times, the coming together of the Olympic family to support the nation's need once again reinforces our belief that we shall always come out stronger to serve sports and make the nation proud."

The IOA will transfer the donations to Prime Minister Cares Fund, the statement added.

The coronavirus outbreak, which originated in the Chinese city of Wuhan, has claimed over 53,000 lives worldwide while infecting more than a million people.

In India, it has led to 56 deaths as per official estimates with over 2,000 people infected by the deadly virus.

Several sports personalities, including Indian cricket team skipper Virat Kohli, batting maestro Sachin Tendulkar, shuttler PV Sindhu and athletes Neeraj Chopra and Hima Das, have also come forward to provide financial contributions to fight against the disease.

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has helped raise Rs 71 lakh through donations from its state affiliates and National Sports Federations (NSF) as a contribution towards the country's fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has helped raise Rs 71 lakh through donations from its state affiliates and National Sports Federations (NSF) as a contribution towards the country's fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. "IOA is deeply grateful to its NSFs and state associations and other federation and bodies for extending their support and humble contributions towards the cause of our nation's fight against the COVID-19 pandemic," the IOA said in a statement issued by its Secretary General Rajeev Mehta. "In these challenging times, the coming together of the Olympic family to support the nation's need once again reinforces our belief that we shall always come out stronger to serve sports and make the nation proud." The IOA will transfer the donations to Prime Minister Cares Fund, the statement added. The coronavirus outbreak, which originated in the Chinese city of Wuhan, has claimed over 53,000 lives worldwide while infecting more than a million people. In India, it has led to 56 deaths as per official estimates with over 2,000 people infected by the deadly virus. Several sports personalities, including Indian cricket team skipper Virat Kohli, batting maestro Sachin Tendulkar, shuttler PV Sindhu and athletes Neeraj Chopra and Hima Das, have also come forward to provide financial contributions to fight against the disease.

IOA raises Rs 71 lakh as contribution in country's battle against COVID-19 pandemic

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will take a call on the much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 on around April 15 as the apex board is waiting for the situation surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic to clear out with India continuing&nbsp;to remain in a 21-day lockdown to combat the deadly virus.&nbsp;

A source within the cricket governing body said the board cannot take a definite call unless the situation clears out while adding it might become really confusing if the BCCI takes a call now and situation changes around April 15.

“There is no clarity as of now when the situation improves, only then we can take a call. When the picture is so hazy, how can we take a call. Suppose we decide now, but the situation is not clear by April 15th, then what will happen,” the source told ANI.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wc-2011-more-than-a-6-for-one-xi-that-never-played-again-for-other-marriage-anniversary-for-3rd-290144" hreflang="en">WC 2011: More than a ''6'' for one, XI that never played again for other, marriage anniversary for 3rd</a>

With domestic and international travel completely restricted amid the lockdown, there are huge question marks on the availability of foreign players. The source said that there’s no point thinking about anything until the situation surrounding the visa restrictions clear out.&nbsp;

“Until and unless we are clear on visa restrictions, there could be country wise restrictions as well. So, we do not know what the situation will be, as of now the situation is so hazy, so there is no point in thinking about anything,” the source added.

There are plenty of talks around the BCCI planning to cut the salaries of players amid COVID-19 pandemic. However, the source within the BCCI said that the board has not even thought of cutting players’ wage.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hit-list-whats-next-in-line-for-possible-coronavirus-postponement-290137" hreflang="en">Hit list: What's next in line for possible coronavirus postponement</a>

“We have not thought about it, this is not even in our minds as of now,” the source said.

However, there’s a slight possibility that the cash-rich tournament could be played at a later window in 2020 with the BCCI searching for a free space later down the year.

“See if we had discussed some permutation or combination last time when we had met with franchises, but this depends on the window we finally get. If there is some window available, then only we can take a call. Right now, the entire country should just focus on when the situation improves,” the source said. 
&nbsp;

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will take a call on the much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 on around April 15 as the apex board is waiting for the situation surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic to clear out with India continuing to remain in a 21-day lockdown to combat the deadly virus.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will take a call on the much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 on around April 15 as the apex board is waiting for the situation surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic to clear out with India continuing to remain in a 21-day lockdown to combat the deadly virus. A source within the cricket governing body said the board cannot take a definite call unless the situation clears out while adding it might become really confusing if the BCCI takes a call now and situation changes around April 15. “There is no clarity as of now when the situation improves, only then we can take a call. When the picture is so hazy, how can we take a call. Suppose we decide now, but the situation is not clear by April 15th, then what will happen,” the source told ANI. ALSO READ: WC 2011: More than a ''6'' for one, XI that never played again for other, marriage anniversary for 3rd With domestic and international travel completely restricted amid the lockdown, there are huge question marks on the availability of foreign players. The source said that there’s no point thinking about anything until the situation surrounding the visa restrictions clear out. “Until and unless we are clear on visa restrictions, there could be country wise restrictions as well. So, we do not know what the situation will be, as of now the situation is so hazy, so there is no point in thinking about anything,” the source added. There are plenty of talks around the BCCI planning to cut the salaries of players amid COVID-19 pandemic. However, the source within the BCCI said that the board has not even thought of cutting players’ wage. ALSO READ: Hit list: What's next in line for possible coronavirus postponement “We have not thought about it, this is not even in our minds as of now,” the source said. However, there’s a slight possibility that the cash-rich tournament could be played at a later window in 2020 with the BCCI searching for a free space later down the year. “See if we had discussed some permutation or combination last time when we had met with franchises, but this depends on the window we finally get. If there is some window available, then only we can take a call. Right now, the entire country should just focus on when the situation improves,” the source said.

BCCI to take call on IPL 2020 after situation around COVID-19 improves

The coronavirus pandemic has decimated the 2020 sporting calendar, with the Tokyo Olympics and football's European Championship the biggest events to be postponed, while Wimbledon was cancelled for the first time since World War II.

Here, AFP Sport takes a look at six of the upcoming major competitions which could also be scrapped or delayed due to the COVID-19 outbreak:

<h2>Epsom Derby&nbsp;</h2>

Scheduled date: June 6

-- British racing is in shutdown mode until at least the end of April, placing doubt on Newmarket's Guineas weekend on May 2/3, and inevitably also the jewel in the British flat racing crown, the Epsom Derby.

The Blue Riband of the turf has been held every year since Diomed took the inaugural running in 1780. During the two World Wars it was moved to Newmarket.

Around 150,000 people descend on the Epsom Downs to watch Britain's richest race.

<h2>Canadian Grand Prix</h2>

Scheduled date: June 14

-- The earliest the Formula One season can get underway is in Montreal on June 14 after the opening eight races of the campaign were all either postponed or cancelled.

A decision on a potential delay will be made by Easter weekend (April 11-12), according to race organisers.

Formula One and Silverstone chiefs also said they have until the end of April to decide whether to postpone the British Grand Prix, scheduled for July 19.

F1 chairman Chase Carey said last month that he still expects the season to start in the summer with a revised calendar of "15-18 races".

<h2>Royal Ascot&nbsp;</h2>

Scheduled dates: June 16-20

-- British monarch Queen Elizabeth II has only missed attending two Epsom Derbies since her first visit as a princess in 1946. But she has never failed to attend her 'local' meeting since ascending the throne in 1952.

The five day festival draws a 300,000 crowd which consumes 56,000 bottles of champagne and 80,000 cups of tea while out on the track equine aristocrats joust for prize money in excess of £8 million ($10 million).&nbsp;

Ascot spokesman Nick Smith told The Daily Mail: "There are no certainties and we are one industry in a world of industries in exactly the same position. You can plan with optimism but no surety."

It has been staged every year since 1911. The 2005 meeting moved to York while the racecourse was closed for renovation.

<h2>US Open&nbsp;(golf)</h2>

Scheduled dates: June 18-21

-- The 120th US Open at Winged Foot is due to be the first men's major of the golf season after the postponements of both the Masters and the PGA Championship.

But American media reports earlier this week said that the tournament in Mamaroneck, New York, was likely to be put back until later in the summer.

The course was closed last week, since when the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the United States has passed 100,000, over 44,000 of them in New York state.

<h2>Tour de France&nbsp;</h2>

Scheduled dates: June 27-July 19

-- The Tour de France is still scheduled to start in Nice on June 27, despite France having extended its lockdown until April 15.

Sports minister Roxana Maracineanu on Wednesday said that the world's most prestigious cycling race, which usually draws more than 10 million fans to the roadsides, could take place with no spectators.

But she also admitted that all options, including cancellation, are being considered.

<h2>British Open</h2>

Scheduled dates: July&nbsp;16-19

-- British media reported on Friday said that the British Open at Royal St George's could be postponed within days.

Over 200,000 spectators are due to attend the tournament in Sandwich.

A delay could have a knock-on effect on the rest of the golf calendar, with space at a premium after the postponements of the PGA and the Masters.

It is highly unlikely that the 149th Open could be held later than September due to the weather, but a delay until next year would impact plans to hold the 150th edition at St Andrews.

The coronavirus pandemic has decimated the 2020 sporting calendar, with the Tokyo Olympics and football's European Championship the biggest events to be postponed, while Wimbledon was cancelled for the first time since World War II.

The coronavirus pandemic has decimated the 2020 sporting calendar, with the Tokyo Olympics and football's European Championship the biggest events to be postponed, while Wimbledon was cancelled for the first time since World War II. Here, AFP Sport takes a look at six of the upcoming major competitions which could also be scrapped or delayed due to the COVID-19 outbreak: Epsom Derby Scheduled date: June 6 -- British racing is in shutdown mode until at least the end of April, placing doubt on Newmarket's Guineas weekend on May 2/3, and inevitably also the jewel in the British flat racing crown, the Epsom Derby. The Blue Riband of the turf has been held every year since Diomed took the inaugural running in 1780. During the two World Wars it was moved to Newmarket. Around 150,000 people descend on the Epsom Downs to watch Britain's richest race. Canadian Grand Prix Scheduled date: June 14 -- The earliest the Formula One season can get underway is in Montreal on June 14 after the opening eight races of the campaign were all either postponed or cancelled. A decision on a potential delay will be made by Easter weekend (April 11-12), according to race organisers. Formula One and Silverstone chiefs also said they have until the end of April to decide whether to postpone the British Grand Prix, scheduled for July 19. F1 chairman Chase Carey said last month that he still expects the season to start in the summer with a revised calendar of "15-18 races". Royal Ascot Scheduled dates: June 16-20 -- British monarch Queen Elizabeth II has only missed attending two Epsom Derbies since her first visit as a princess in 1946. But she has never failed to attend her 'local' meeting since ascending the throne in 1952. The five day festival draws a 300,000 crowd which consumes 56,000 bottles of champagne and 80,000 cups of tea while out on the track equine aristocrats joust for prize money in excess of £8 million ($10 million). Ascot spokesman Nick Smith told The Daily Mail: "There are no certainties and we are one industry in a world of industries in exactly the same position. You can plan with optimism but no surety." It has been staged every year since 1911. The 2005 meeting moved to York while the racecourse was closed for renovation. US Open (golf) Scheduled dates: June 18-21 -- The 120th US Open at Winged Foot is due to be the first men's major of the golf season after the postponements of both the Masters and the PGA Championship. But American media reports earlier this week said that the tournament in Mamaroneck, New York, was likely to be put back until later in the summer. The course was closed last week, since when the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the United States has passed 100,000, over 44,000 of them in New York state. Tour de France Scheduled dates: June 27-July 19 -- The Tour de France is still scheduled to start in Nice on June 27, despite France having extended its lockdown until April 15. Sports minister Roxana Maracineanu on Wednesday said that the world's most prestigious cycling race, which usually draws more than 10 million fans to the roadsides, could take place with no spectators. But she also admitted that all options, including cancellation, are being considered. British Open Scheduled dates: July 16-19 -- British media reported on Friday said that the British Open at Royal St George's could be postponed within days. Over 200,000 spectators are due to attend the tournament in Sandwich. A delay could have a knock-on effect on the rest of the golf calendar, with space at a premium after the postponements of the PGA and the Masters. It is highly unlikely that the 149th Open could be held later than September due to the weather, but a delay until next year would impact plans to hold the 150th edition at St Andrews.

Hit list: What's next in line for possible coronavirus postponement

The French MotoGP, initially scheduled for May 15-17 in Le Mans, has been postponed because of the "ongoing coronavirus outbreak", organisers announced Thursday.

"As the situation remains in a state of constant evolution, new dates for the French GP and the recently-postponed Gran Premio Red Bull de Espana cannot be confirmed until it becomes clearer when exactly it will be possible to hold the events," the international motorcycling federation said.

A revised calendar will be published as soon as available, it added.

The French MotoGP is the latest sporting casualty of the coronavirus pandemic and follows the cancellation of the elite category season-opening MotoGP in Qatar.

The next three legs of the 2020 calendar in Thailand, Texas and Argentina have also been put on ice, with Dorna, the series promoter, hoping to run them in the second half of a truncated season.

Dorna has already said it will push back the end of the season two weeks to November 29.

The French MotoGP, initially scheduled for May 15-17 in Le Mans, has been postponed because of the "ongoing coronavirus outbreak", organisers announced Thursday.

The French MotoGP, initially scheduled for May 15-17 in Le Mans, has been postponed because of the "ongoing coronavirus outbreak", organisers announced Thursday. "As the situation remains in a state of constant evolution, new dates for the French GP and the recently-postponed Gran Premio Red Bull de Espana cannot be confirmed until it becomes clearer when exactly it will be possible to hold the events," the international motorcycling federation said. A revised calendar will be published as soon as available, it added. The French MotoGP is the latest sporting casualty of the coronavirus pandemic and follows the cancellation of the elite category season-opening MotoGP in Qatar. The next three legs of the 2020 calendar in Thailand, Texas and Argentina have also been put on ice, with Dorna, the series promoter, hoping to run them in the second half of a truncated season. Dorna has already said it will push back the end of the season two weeks to November 29.

French MotoGP postponed over coronavirus

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly on Wednesday donated 2,000 kilograms of rice at the iconic Belur Math – the headquarters of the Ramkrishna Mission – to help the needy during COVID-19 pandemic. <o:p></o:p>

The former Indian captain had earlier announced that he will be donating rice worth Rs 50 lakh to the needy during these tough times as India continues to remain in a 21-day lockdown period to combat the deadly coronavirus.<o:p></o:p>

Ganguly took to social media platform Twitter to post a few photographs of him visiting Belur Math as he captioned the images: "Visited Belur Math after 25 years, handed over 2000kgs of rice for the needy.”

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Visited belur math after 25 years .. handed over 2000kgs of rice for the needy <a href="https://t.co/FcIqHcWMh7">pic.twitter.com/FcIqHcWMh7</a>
— Sourav Ganguly (@SGanguly99) <a href="https://twitter.com/SGanguly99/status/1245294603571347458?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 1, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rajasthan-royals-ready-to-play-shortened-ipl-2020-with-indian-players-only-ceo-ranjit-barthakur-289851" hreflang="en">Rajasthan Royals ready to play shortened IPL 2020 with Indian players only: CEO Ranjit Barthakur</a>

<o:p></o:p>

The southpaw was seen wearing a black mask while taking a tour of the famous Ramkrishna Mission headquarters with monks.<o:p></o:p>

The dreaded COVID-19 has claimed around 50 lives thus far with nearly 1,700 positive cases reported in the nation. <o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, Ganguly has to take a big decision in coming days in relation to the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020. The cash-rich tournament was earlier scheduled to start from March 29 but was postponed till April 15 in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic.

<o:p>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/franchises-turn-to-whatsapp-groups-to-answer-player-queries-as-fate-of-ipl-2020-hangs-in-balance-289869" hreflang="en">Franchises turn to WhatsApp groups to answer player queries as fate of IPL 2020 hangs in balance</a>

While there has been no official confirmation surrounding the cancellation of the tournament, many reports suggest that it is likely that IPL 2020 will be scrapped for the season. Other reports have suggested that the BCCI is looking for an alternate window during August-September which could lead to the postponement of Asia Cup 2020, scheduled to be played in September following which Australia will host the ICC T20 World Cup 2020 in October. <o:p></o:p>

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly on Wednesday donated 2,000 kilograms of rice at the iconic Belur Math – the headquarters of the Ramkrishna Mission – to help the needy during COVID-19 pandemic.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly on Wednesday donated 2,000 kilograms of rice at the iconic Belur Math – the headquarters of the Ramkrishna Mission – to help the needy during COVID-19 pandemic. The former Indian captain had earlier announced that he will be donating rice worth Rs 50 lakh to the needy during these tough times as India continues to remain in a 21-day lockdown period to combat the deadly coronavirus. Ganguly took to social media platform Twitter to post a few photographs of him visiting Belur Math as he captioned the images: "Visited Belur Math after 25 years, handed over 2000kgs of rice for the needy.” Visited belur math after 25 years .. handed over 2000kgs of rice for the needy pic.twitter.com/FcIqHcWMh7 — Sourav Ganguly (@SGanguly99) April 1, 2020 × ALSO READ: Rajasthan Royals ready to play shortened IPL 2020 with Indian players only: CEO Ranjit Barthakur The southpaw was seen wearing a black mask while taking a tour of the famous Ramkrishna Mission headquarters with monks. The dreaded COVID-19 has claimed around 50 lives thus far with nearly 1,700 positive cases reported in the nation. Meanwhile, Ganguly has to take a big decision in coming days in relation to the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020. The cash-rich tournament was earlier scheduled to start from March 29 but was postponed till April 15 in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic. ALSO READ: Franchises turn to WhatsApp groups to answer player queries as fate of IPL 2020 hangs in balance While there has been no official confirmation surrounding the cancellation of the tournament, many reports suggest that it is likely that IPL 2020 will be scrapped for the season. Other reports have suggested that the BCCI is looking for an alternate window during August-September which could lead to the postponement of Asia Cup 2020, scheduled to be played in September following which Australia will host the ICC T20 World Cup 2020 in October.

Sourav Ganguly visits Belur Math, donates 2000kgs rice for the needy during COVID-19 pandemic

Wimbledon looks certain to be scrapped for the first time since World War II by tournament chiefs on Wednesday as the coronavirus wreaks further havoc on the global sporting calendar.

The cancellation of the only grasscourt Grand Slam tournament at the All England Club would leave the tennis season in disarray after the French Open was controversially moved and all events cancelled until June 7.

Wimbledon, in leafy southwest London, is due to run for two weeks from June 29, with Novak Djokovic and Simona Halep set to defend their singles titles.

A decision to scrap the tournament is widely expected, with the world struggling to contain the spread of COVID-19, which has infected more than 840,000 people worldwide and killed over 40,000.

Lead-up tournaments in the short grasscourt season are also likely to be scrapped following talks on Tuesday, understood to have involved Wimbledon chiefs and the game's governing bodies.

Organisers had earlier ruled out playing the Grand Slam behind closed doors and postponing the event would also create its own problems.

Three-time Wimbledon champion Boris Becker on Tuesday pleaded for tournament chiefs to wait longer before making a decision.

"I really hope Wimbledon will wait until the end of April for decision!" he tweeted. "The tourney is first week of July... patience is a virtue."

But former women's world number one Amelie Mauresmo, the 2006 Wimbledon champion, said the 2020 season would probably need to be scrapped.

"I think that we are going to have to draw a line under the 2020 tennis season," she tweeted.

The cancellation of Wimbledon could mean multiple champions Roger Federer, Serena Williams and Venus Williams have played at the All England Club for the final time.

Federer and Serena will be nearly 40 by the time of the 2021 championships and Venus will be 41.

Serena, beaten in last year's final by Halep, is stuck on 23 Grand Slam singles titles -- agonisingly one away from equalling Margaret Court's record.

The conditions required to play on grass in England mean a postponement is impractical and a date later in the summer or early autumn would mean much shorter evenings.

"Each week that passes, you get less and less light to play the tournament," doubles specialist Jamie Murray told the BBC.

American giant John Isner, who won the longest-ever tennis match over three days at Wimbledon in 2010, said the scrapping of the tournament would be a "tough pill to swallow".

"We may have to come to grips with the fact that we may not be playing Wimbledon this year," he told ESPN on Tuesday.

"Wimbledon sort of has to be played this (same) time of year," Isner said.

"With that surface, the event, it seems, has to be played this time and there's a good chance it won't be."

The French Tennis Federation provoked widespread anger with its unilateral decision to move the French Open from its original May 24 start date to begin on September 20.

That puts the start only one week after the planned date of the US Open men's final.

Wimbledon looks certain to be scrapped for the first time since World War II by tournament chiefs on Wednesday as the coronavirus wreaks further havoc on the global sporting calendar.

Wimbledon looks certain to be scrapped for the first time since World War II by tournament chiefs on Wednesday as the coronavirus wreaks further havoc on the global sporting calendar. The cancellation of the only grasscourt Grand Slam tournament at the All England Club would leave the tennis season in disarray after the French Open was controversially moved and all events cancelled until June 7. Wimbledon, in leafy southwest London, is due to run for two weeks from June 29, with Novak Djokovic and Simona Halep set to defend their singles titles. A decision to scrap the tournament is widely expected, with the world struggling to contain the spread of COVID-19, which has infected more than 840,000 people worldwide and killed over 40,000. Lead-up tournaments in the short grasscourt season are also likely to be scrapped following talks on Tuesday, understood to have involved Wimbledon chiefs and the game's governing bodies. Organisers had earlier ruled out playing the Grand Slam behind closed doors and postponing the event would also create its own problems. Three-time Wimbledon champion Boris Becker on Tuesday pleaded for tournament chiefs to wait longer before making a decision. "I really hope Wimbledon will wait until the end of April for decision!" he tweeted. "The tourney is first week of July... patience is a virtue." But former women's world number one Amelie Mauresmo, the 2006 Wimbledon champion, said the 2020 season would probably need to be scrapped. "I think that we are going to have to draw a line under the 2020 tennis season," she tweeted. The cancellation of Wimbledon could mean multiple champions Roger Federer, Serena Williams and Venus Williams have played at the All England Club for the final time. Federer and Serena will be nearly 40 by the time of the 2021 championships and Venus will be 41. Serena, beaten in last year's final by Halep, is stuck on 23 Grand Slam singles titles -- agonisingly one away from equalling Margaret Court's record. The conditions required to play on grass in England mean a postponement is impractical and a date later in the summer or early autumn would mean much shorter evenings. "Each week that passes, you get less and less light to play the tournament," doubles specialist Jamie Murray told the BBC. American giant John Isner, who won the longest-ever tennis match over three days at Wimbledon in 2010, said the scrapping of the tournament would be a "tough pill to swallow". "We may have to come to grips with the fact that we may not be playing Wimbledon this year," he told ESPN on Tuesday. "Wimbledon sort of has to be played this (same) time of year," Isner said. "With that surface, the event, it seems, has to be played this time and there's a good chance it won't be." The French Tennis Federation provoked widespread anger with its unilateral decision to move the French Open from its original May 24 start date to begin on September 20. That puts the start only one week after the planned date of the US Open men's final.

Wimbledon set to be cancelled for first time since WWII

The New York stadium complex that hosts the iconic US Open tennis tournament every year is set to be converted into a makeshift hospital as the city of New York like the entire US continues to fight against COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

The Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Queens will be used as an overflow hospital space in a bid to bolster efforts to treat patients amid coronavirus pandemic. The move to convert the New York stadium complex into a hospital comes after the request from the New York City Office of Emergency Management, said Chris Widmaier, US Tennis Association spokesman.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/villas-grealish-apologises-fined-for-breaking-isolation-rules-289842" hreflang="en">Villa's Grealish apologises, fined for breaking isolation rules</a>

The Mayor of New York – Bill de Blasio – said that the overflow hospital space will have 350 beds and will admit patients tested positive for COVID-19 but do not require ICU care, starting next week. The conversion will come as a massive relief for all the hospital in New York, which has been the epicenter of COVID-19 outbreak.

“I think the time horizon that’s of deepest concern to New York City is April-May, and thereafter we pray that we start to come out of this, but it won’t be instant,” de Blasio told reporters at the tennis center. “August may be a very, very much better time or we may still be fighting some of these battles. We don’t know yet. By late summer, we may get some good news.”

The Billie Jean King National Tennis Center is one of the largest tennis facilities in the world while being home to Arthur Ashe Stadium, Louis Armstrong Stadium and several other smaller tennis courts.

<img alt="The Billie Jean King National Tennis Center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0888c5c5-9ba6-4507-acac-1b0cc443a23e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1QA921.jpg" />

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ex-olympique-marseille-president-pape-diouf-dies-of-coronavirus-289841" hreflang="en">Ex-Olympique Marseille president Pape Diouf dies of coronavirus</a>

However, there has been no official word on the US Open, scheduled to start in late August as the tournament is still on amid the novel coronavirus pandemic.

The US death toll rose from 3,008 at 8:30pm EST on Monday to 3,873 at 8.30pm EST on Tuesday. And in New York, at least 1,218 people have died from COVID-19, as of Monday.&nbsp;

As the death toll in the US rose, President Trump said the nation should be well prepared for a painful couple of weeks.

"This is going to be a very painful, a very, very painful two weeks," Trump said at the White House, adding," "I want every American to be prepared for the hard days that lie ahead."

"It's absolutely critical for the American people to follow the guidelines for the next 30 days. It's a matter of life and death," the US president added.

The New York stadium complex that hosts the iconic US Open tennis tournament every year is set to be converted into a makeshift hospital as the city of New York like the entire US continues to fight against COVID-19 pandemic.

The New York stadium complex that hosts the iconic US Open tennis tournament every year is set to be converted into a makeshift hospital as the city of New York like the entire US continues to fight against COVID-19 pandemic. The Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Queens will be used as an overflow hospital space in a bid to bolster efforts to treat patients amid coronavirus pandemic. The move to convert the New York stadium complex into a hospital comes after the request from the New York City Office of Emergency Management, said Chris Widmaier, US Tennis Association spokesman. ALSO READ: Villa's Grealish apologises, fined for breaking isolation rules The Mayor of New York – Bill de Blasio – said that the overflow hospital space will have 350 beds and will admit patients tested positive for COVID-19 but do not require ICU care, starting next week. The conversion will come as a massive relief for all the hospital in New York, which has been the epicenter of COVID-19 outbreak. “I think the time horizon that’s of deepest concern to New York City is April-May, and thereafter we pray that we start to come out of this, but it won’t be instant,” de Blasio told reporters at the tennis center. “August may be a very, very much better time or we may still be fighting some of these battles. We don’t know yet. By late summer, we may get some good news.” The Billie Jean King National Tennis Center is one of the largest tennis facilities in the world while being home to Arthur Ashe Stadium, Louis Armstrong Stadium and several other smaller tennis courts. ALSO READ: Ex-Olympique Marseille president Pape Diouf dies of coronavirus However, there has been no official word on the US Open, scheduled to start in late August as the tournament is still on amid the novel coronavirus pandemic. The US death toll rose from 3,008 at 8:30pm EST on Monday to 3,873 at 8.30pm EST on Tuesday. And in New York, at least 1,218 people have died from COVID-19, as of Monday. As the death toll in the US rose, President Trump said the nation should be well prepared for a painful couple of weeks. "This is going to be a very painful, a very, very painful two weeks," Trump said at the White House, adding," "I want every American to be prepared for the hard days that lie ahead." "It's absolutely critical for the American people to follow the guidelines for the next 30 days. It's a matter of life and death," the US president added.

New York City to convert US Open tennis courts into makeshift hospital for COVID-19 patients

The decision to postpone the Tokyo Olympics 2020 came after heavy pressure and criticism from athletes and sporting federations. The Games will now open on July 23, 2021, with the closing ceremony scheduled on August 8, 2021.

While the decision to postpone the Tokyo Olympics was well received by almost everyone, there’s certain uncertainty that comes with the decision in regards to what will be the events for the year 2020 and how the roadmap for the Games are going to be planned given the current scenario surrounding the COVID-19. There are slight concerns regarding the selection trials which have not been clarified, yet, by the sporting federations.

Apurvi Chandela, who was among the first set of Indian shooters to book an Olympic quota, spoke to WION's Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo, on the decision to postpone the Tokyo Olympics, how she is spending her time during the 21-day lockdown period and much more.

“Everyone’s at home. Due to my routine, I don’t get to spend much time at home. It is unfortunate what is going around in the world but now that we are in lockdown, I am spending quality time with my family and trying to make the most out of it,” Apurvi said.

Before the Games were actually postponed, there were massive speculations surrounding the quadrennial event. While many athletes were vocal and against the Games to go as per schedule, Apurvi said that she saw the decision coming while adding that she was just preparing herself for any decision.

“I saw it coming. There was a lot happening whether the Olympics will get postponed or cancelled, so I was just trying to gather it and prepare myself for any decision. But the thing is I can only focus on my preparation. Luckily, I have a shooting range at my home in my basement, although it is not that large but I am preparing myself and trying to keep myself fresh,” the 2014 Commonwealth Games gold medal winner said.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="autoplay; fullscreen" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" mozallowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" src="https://w3.cdn.anvato.net/player/prod/v3/anvload.html?key=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%2FaXU9LzExNDQwNDY1L1dpb25ld3NfVmlkZW8vV2lvbmV3c19QcmVyb2xsJmRlc2NyaXB0aW9uX3VybD1bcGxhY2Vob2xkZXJdJmVudj12cCZpbXBsPXMmY29ycmVsYXRvcj0mdGZjZD0wJm5wYT0wJmdkZnBfcmVxPTEmb3V0cHV0PXZhc3Qmc3o9NjQweDQ4MCZ1bnZpZXdlZF9wb3NpdGlvbl9zdGFydD0xIn0sImxpYnJhcnlSZXF1ZXN0ZWQiOnRydWV9LCJoZWFsdGhBbmFseXRpY3MiOnt9fSwiaHRtbDUiOnRydWV9" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="640"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The road to bag an Olympic quota was a hectic affair for Apurvi. She had to perform in every selection trials, every World Cup and maintain her position in the table to get the final nod to represent &nbsp;India in the Tokyo Olympics.

“Since I won the quota in 2018, I wasn’t sure that I will be the one representing my country as the quota comes for the nation. I still needed to maintain my position and until March the selection trials were going on. Like the last two years have gone for me, it will be same as I will be pushing myself every day,” Apurvi said.

“It does take a toll on us definitely. We go through so many selection trials, all our World Cups are counted. In March, we actually thought that all of us will come to an end and we will go to the Olympics finally but now that the Games are postponed the biggest challenge will be to stay up to the mark mentally,” she added.

However, while the decision to postpone Olympics comes mainly for the well-being of athletes and everyone associated with the Games, it brings a sense of uncertainty surrounding another year of planning and preparation.

“My support staff had everything planned. But now with everything postponed, we will sit again after the lockdown ends and the situation improves. We need to chalk down everything again and start from scratch.

“This is actually true. We still don’t know the decision of the selection committee and federation, how they will go ahead with selection trials. I am just focusing on preparing myself as that is only in my control,” Apurvi explained.

“Training is completely different as one needs to go and actually compete to know the results of your preparations and training. Had the Olympics happened now, none of us would have been able to actually compete before heading into the Games,” she added.

Now that everyone has been restricted to their respective residence, Apurvi is spending quality time with her family while helping her parents with some household work, which she doesn’t get to do due to her hectic schedule.

“We have divided our jobs. I do the brooming and mopping part. My dad takes care of the dogs and my mother does all the kitchen work. So far everything is working fine and we are spending good time together,” Apurvi concluded. &nbsp;

The decision to postpone the Tokyo Olympics 2020 came after heavy pressure and criticism from athletes and sporting federations. The Games will now open on July 23, 2021, with the closing ceremony scheduled on August 8, 2021.

The decision to postpone the Tokyo Olympics 2020 came after heavy pressure and criticism from athletes and sporting federations. The Games will now open on July 23, 2021, with the closing ceremony scheduled on August 8, 2021. While the decision to postpone the Tokyo Olympics was well received by almost everyone, there’s certain uncertainty that comes with the decision in regards to what will be the events for the year 2020 and how the roadmap for the Games are going to be planned given the current scenario surrounding the COVID-19. There are slight concerns regarding the selection trials which have not been clarified, yet, by the sporting federations. Apurvi Chandela, who was among the first set of Indian shooters to book an Olympic quota, spoke to WION's Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo, on the decision to postpone the Tokyo Olympics, how she is spending her time during the 21-day lockdown period and much more. “Everyone’s at home. Due to my routine, I don’t get to spend much time at home. It is unfortunate what is going around in the world but now that we are in lockdown, I am spending quality time with my family and trying to make the most out of it,” Apurvi said. Before the Games were actually postponed, there were massive speculations surrounding the quadrennial event. While many athletes were vocal and against the Games to go as per schedule, Apurvi said that she saw the decision coming while adding that she was just preparing herself for any decision. “I saw it coming. There was a lot happening whether the Olympics will get postponed or cancelled, so I was just trying to gather it and prepare myself for any decision. But the thing is I can only focus on my preparation. Luckily, I have a shooting range at my home in my basement, although it is not that large but I am preparing myself and trying to keep myself fresh,” the 2014 Commonwealth Games gold medal winner said. × The road to bag an Olympic quota was a hectic affair for Apurvi. She had to perform in every selection trials, every World Cup and maintain her position in the table to get the final nod to represent India in the Tokyo Olympics. “Since I won the quota in 2018, I wasn’t sure that I will be the one representing my country as the quota comes for the nation. I still needed to maintain my position and until March the selection trials were going on. Like the last two years have gone for me, it will be same as I will be pushing myself every day,” Apurvi said. “It does take a toll on us definitely. We go through so many selection trials, all our World Cups are counted. In March, we actually thought that all of us will come to an end and we will go to the Olympics finally but now that the Games are postponed the biggest challenge will be to stay up to the mark mentally,” she added. However, while the decision to postpone Olympics comes mainly for the well-being of athletes and everyone associated with the Games, it brings a sense of uncertainty surrounding another year of planning and preparation. “My support staff had everything planned. But now with everything postponed, we will sit again after the lockdown ends and the situation improves. We need to chalk down everything again and start from scratch. “This is actually true. We still don’t know the decision of the selection committee and federation, how they will go ahead with selection trials. I am just focusing on preparing myself as that is only in my control,” Apurvi explained. “Training is completely different as one needs to go and actually compete to know the results of your preparations and training. Had the Olympics happened now, none of us would have been able to actually compete before heading into the Games,” she added. Now that everyone has been restricted to their respective residence, Apurvi is spending quality time with her family while helping her parents with some household work, which she doesn’t get to do due to her hectic schedule. “We have divided our jobs. I do the brooming and mopping part. My dad takes care of the dogs and my mother does all the kitchen work. So far everything is working fine and we are spending good time together,” Apurvi concluded.

Exclusive: 'I saw it coming' - Apurvi Chandela opens up on Tokyo Olympics postponement and life in lockdown

Wimbledon organisers will announce the cancellation of the grasscourt Grand Slam this week due to the coronavirus pandemic, German Tennis Federation (DTB) vice-president Dirk Hordorff has told Sky Sports.

All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) officials earlier said the June 29-July 12 event would not be played behind closed doors and postponement was not without significant risk and difficulty.

“Wimbledon has stated that they will have a board meeting next Wednesday and will make the final decision there,” Hordorff told Sky Sports Germany.

“I am also involved in the bodies of the ATP and WTA. The necessary decisions have already been made there and Wimbledon will decide to cancel next Wednesday. There is no doubt about it. This is necessary in the current situation.

“It is completely unrealistic to imagine that with the travel restrictions that we currently have an international tennis tournament where hundreds of thousands of people from all over the world would travel. That is unthinkable.”

The AELTC did not respond to a request for comment.

The postponement of the Tokyo Olympics opened up a two-week window in the tennis calendar in July/August but it is less likely that it will be feasible for Wimbledon, which has only two covered courts and cannot be held past late summer.

French Open organisers stunned the tennis world by unilaterally postponing the claycourt Grand Slam at Roland Garros from May until late September because of the pandemic.

The French Tennis Federation (FFT) came under heavy fire from tennis players around the world at the lack of communication as the new dates clashed with several other events already featuring on the calendar.

The men’s ATP Tour and the WTA, which runs women’s tournaments, require their players to participate at the four Grand Slams, but the new French Open dates are yet to feature on the calendars of either association.

“The unilateral behaviour of the organizers has been criticized by everyone and I can simply predict that the French Open will not be relocated as it was intended,” Hordorff said.

He said either the FFT would go ahead with the new dates and feel the wrath of the entire tennis world or they have the option to start working with others to draw up a plan that makes sense for everyone.

“They will be deprived of the points and they will degenerate into a chaos event,” he said.

“Even those there have understood that and they are slowly crawling back. Solidarity is the order of the day, it is a matter of being together and not going it alone, as the president of the French Tennis Association did.”

Wimbledon organisers will announce the cancellation of the grasscourt Grand Slam this week due to the coronavirus pandemic, German Tennis Federation (DTB) vice-president Dirk Hordorff has told Sky Sports.

Wimbledon organisers will announce the cancellation of the grasscourt Grand Slam this week due to the coronavirus pandemic, German Tennis Federation (DTB) vice-president Dirk Hordorff has told Sky Sports. All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) officials earlier said the June 29-July 12 event would not be played behind closed doors and postponement was not without significant risk and difficulty. “Wimbledon has stated that they will have a board meeting next Wednesday and will make the final decision there,” Hordorff told Sky Sports Germany. “I am also involved in the bodies of the ATP and WTA. The necessary decisions have already been made there and Wimbledon will decide to cancel next Wednesday. There is no doubt about it. This is necessary in the current situation. “It is completely unrealistic to imagine that with the travel restrictions that we currently have an international tennis tournament where hundreds of thousands of people from all over the world would travel. That is unthinkable.” The AELTC did not respond to a request for comment. The postponement of the Tokyo Olympics opened up a two-week window in the tennis calendar in July/August but it is less likely that it will be feasible for Wimbledon, which has only two covered courts and cannot be held past late summer. French Open organisers stunned the tennis world by unilaterally postponing the claycourt Grand Slam at Roland Garros from May until late September because of the pandemic. The French Tennis Federation (FFT) came under heavy fire from tennis players around the world at the lack of communication as the new dates clashed with several other events already featuring on the calendar. The men’s ATP Tour and the WTA, which runs women’s tournaments, require their players to participate at the four Grand Slams, but the new French Open dates are yet to feature on the calendars of either association. “The unilateral behaviour of the organizers has been criticized by everyone and I can simply predict that the French Open will not be relocated as it was intended,” Hordorff said. He said either the FFT would go ahead with the new dates and feel the wrath of the entire tennis world or they have the option to start working with others to draw up a plan that makes sense for everyone. “They will be deprived of the points and they will degenerate into a chaos event,” he said. “Even those there have understood that and they are slowly crawling back. Solidarity is the order of the day, it is a matter of being together and not going it alone, as the president of the French Tennis Association did.”

Wimbledon will be cancelled, says German tennis official - report

sports-news

Sports News, News on Sports News, stories on Sports News, articles on Sports News, Sports News stories at Wion, Sports News news, Sports News latest news

sports news