New dates for the postponed 2020 Tokyo Olympics are expected to be revealed this week, Tokyo 2020 chief Yoshiro Mori said while adding that the organizing committee is weighing on the pros and cons of summer and spring Games.

The COVID-19 pandemic had forced the landmark decision to delay the Tokyo Olympics until next year with the sporting calendar for the year 2020 completely left shattered by the dreaded virus. With the historic decision to delay the Olympics by a year continues to settle down, the new dates of the Games will be announced soon with Mori expecting a decision from the International Olympic Committee (IOC) soon.&nbsp;

"I think perhaps there will be some kind of communication from (IOC) President (Thomas) Bach this week," Mori told reporters on Monday.

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The 2020 Tokyo Olympics were earlier scheduled to start on July 24 and run for 16 days but the COVID-19 pandemic forced the first peace-time postponement of the quadrennial event. While the IOC and Japan were optimistic that the show could go on but the rapid spread of the novel coronavirus had brought out heavy criticism from athletes and sporting federations and hence, the Games were delayed by a year.

The likely date to begin the Games will be July 23, 2021, as per pubic broadcaster NHK as it cited sources within the organizing panel.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/british-boxer-anthony-yarde-urges-people-to-stay-at-home-after-his-father-dies-of-covid-19-despite-being-fit-with-no-health-issues-289428">British boxer Anthony Yarde urges people to stay at home after his father dies of COVID-19 despite being 'fit with no health issues'</a>

According to reports, the Games were due to cost $12.6 billion, shared between the organising committee, the government of Japan and Tokyo city. But the postponement affects every aspect be it logistics, hotels, ticketing, venues.&nbsp;

However, the Tokyo Olympics are being touted as the victory of humanity over the COVID-19.&nbsp;

"We are embarking on an unprecedented challenge," said Mori while adding, "but I believe it is the mission of the Tokyo 2020 organising committee to hold the Olympics and Paralympics next year as a proof of mankind's victory" against the virus. 
&nbsp;

New dates for the postponed 2020 Tokyo Olympics are expected to be revealed this week, Tokyo 2020 chief Yoshiro Mori said while adding that the organizing committee is weighing on the pros and cons of summer and spring Games.

New dates for the postponed 2020 Tokyo Olympics are expected to be revealed this week, Tokyo 2020 chief Yoshiro Mori said while adding that the organizing committee is weighing on the pros and cons of summer and spring Games. The COVID-19 pandemic had forced the landmark decision to delay the Tokyo Olympics until next year with the sporting calendar for the year 2020 completely left shattered by the dreaded virus. With the historic decision to delay the Olympics by a year continues to settle down, the new dates of the Games will be announced soon with Mori expecting a decision from the International Olympic Committee (IOC) soon. "I think perhaps there will be some kind of communication from (IOC) President (Thomas) Bach this week," Mori told reporters on Monday. ALSO READ: IPL 2020 expected to be cancelled with no mega auction next season: Report The 2020 Tokyo Olympics were earlier scheduled to start on July 24 and run for 16 days but the COVID-19 pandemic forced the first peace-time postponement of the quadrennial event. While the IOC and Japan were optimistic that the show could go on but the rapid spread of the novel coronavirus had brought out heavy criticism from athletes and sporting federations and hence, the Games were delayed by a year. The likely date to begin the Games will be July 23, 2021, as per pubic broadcaster NHK as it cited sources within the organizing panel. ALSO READ: British boxer Anthony Yarde urges people to stay at home after his father dies of COVID-19 despite being 'fit with no health issues' According to reports, the Games were due to cost $12.6 billion, shared between the organising committee, the government of Japan and Tokyo city. But the postponement affects every aspect be it logistics, hotels, ticketing, venues. However, the Tokyo Olympics are being touted as the victory of humanity over the COVID-19. "We are embarking on an unprecedented challenge," said Mori while adding, "but I believe it is the mission of the Tokyo 2020 organising committee to hold the Olympics and Paralympics next year as a proof of mankind's victory" against the virus.

New dates for Tokyo Olympics likely to be announced 'this week': Organisers

Star wrestler Bajrang Punia on Monday decided to donate his six months salary towards fight against COVID-19 pandemic and called for postponement of Tokyo Olympics, saying the mega event will lose sheen if it goes ahead in the absence of nations who have already pulled out.

The 25-year-old Bajrang is one of India's medal contenders at the Games, which are under doubt due to the coronavirus, which has claimed more than 15000 lives and infected more than 3,00,000 people worldwide. 
Bajrang, the 2019 World Championship bronze medallist, works with the Railways as an officer on special duty (OSD).

"I have decided to donate my six months salary," Bajrang tweeted and immediately earned praise from Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju, who said it was a laudable effort.

Talking to PTI, Bajrang said, "Before Olympics we have to fight Coronavirus. If situation does not improve, and continues for 2-3 months, it will be perfectly alright to postpone the Olympics."

"If it is held with Coronavirus continuing to wreak havoc, a lot of nations will not send their athletes. Already Canada and Australia have said they won't send their athletes. What's the point then.

"So it is not just India's problem, it's a global issue, which needs to be tackled first," he added.

Bajrang is training at an apartment in Sonepat while his coach Shako Bentinidis has left for Georgia. India's foreign coach for women wrestlers Andrew Cook has also left for the US a few days ago.

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) says it will decide the country's participation in about four weeks' time. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) is under tremendous pressure to postpone the Games.

Meanwhile, Vinesh Phogat, another Indian medal contender at the Games, says she has been training hard and it does not matter what she feels about the postponement of the Games.

"I am at my home and training has been good so far. Whatever I say, does not matter," she said.

Star wrestler Bajrang Punia on Monday decided to donate his six months salary towards fight against COVID-19 pandemic and called for postponement of Tokyo Olympics, saying the mega event will lose sheen if it goes ahead in the absence of nations who have already pulled out.

Star wrestler Bajrang Punia on Monday decided to donate his six months salary towards fight against COVID-19 pandemic and called for postponement of Tokyo Olympics, saying the mega event will lose sheen if it goes ahead in the absence of nations who have already pulled out. The 25-year-old Bajrang is one of India's medal contenders at the Games, which are under doubt due to the coronavirus, which has claimed more than 15000 lives and infected more than 3,00,000 people worldwide. Bajrang, the 2019 World Championship bronze medallist, works with the Railways as an officer on special duty (OSD). "I have decided to donate my six months salary," Bajrang tweeted and immediately earned praise from Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju, who said it was a laudable effort. Talking to PTI, Bajrang said, "Before Olympics we have to fight Coronavirus. If situation does not improve, and continues for 2-3 months, it will be perfectly alright to postpone the Olympics." "If it is held with Coronavirus continuing to wreak havoc, a lot of nations will not send their athletes. Already Canada and Australia have said they won't send their athletes. What's the point then. "So it is not just India's problem, it's a global issue, which needs to be tackled first," he added. Bajrang is training at an apartment in Sonepat while his coach Shako Bentinidis has left for Georgia. India's foreign coach for women wrestlers Andrew Cook has also left for the US a few days ago. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) says it will decide the country's participation in about four weeks' time. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) is under tremendous pressure to postpone the Games. Meanwhile, Vinesh Phogat, another Indian medal contender at the Games, says she has been training hard and it does not matter what she feels about the postponement of the Games. "I am at my home and training has been good so far. Whatever I say, does not matter," she said.

Bajrang Punia to donate six months salary, calls for postponement of Tokyo Games

Indian Women&nbsp;team's spirited performance in the recently concluded ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2020 made every Indian cricket fan proud. While Team India received high praise from the former cricketers and experts for their campaign in the showpiece event, the Harmanpreet Kaur-led outfit fell just short of lifting the coveted trophy as India were defeated by defending champions Australia Women in the summit clash at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground.&nbsp;

The credit behind the rich success of the Indian Women’s team has to go to former Indian cricketer and the head coach of the Women’s team, WV Raman, who took the baton forward at a time when controversies had started to mar women’s cricket. After India’s successful campaign in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, Raman has said that he is trying to create a team that will stick together and dominate world cricket.

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Raman further said that the performance in the showpiece event has boosted everyone’s confidence in the dressing room and the players can now bank on the experience in crunch matches.

“I’m trying to create a team which will play together for 6-8 years and dominate world cricket. That’s what sets the Australian team apart. As a team, they have played quite a few finals together and that’s the reason why they dominated the World Cup,” Raman told a leading daily.

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“Their performance has given everyone a lot of confidence and has shown Indian cricket can be a dominant force in the women’s category as well. They are a young side and their performance was important to inspire girls, especially those who are on the threshold of deciding whether to take up women’s cricket as a profession,” he added.

The likes of Poonam Yadav, Deepti Sharma, Shafali Verma stood out in the Indian team as the girls left everyone stunned with their ability to turn a match single-handedly. While the experienced campaigners in Smriti Mandhana and Harmanpreet didn’t perform to the best of their ability, it didn’t let anyone in the team affect their respective performances. 
&nbsp;

Indian Women team's spirited performance in the recently concluded ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2020 made every Indian cricket fan proud. While Team India received high praise from the former cricketers and experts for their campaign in the showpiece event, the Harmanpreet Kaur-led outfit fell just short of lifting the coveted trophy as India were defeated by defending champions Australia Women in the summit clash at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground.

Indian Women team's spirited performance in the recently concluded ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2020 made every Indian cricket fan proud. While Team India received high praise from the former cricketers and experts for their campaign in the showpiece event, the Harmanpreet Kaur-led outfit fell just short of lifting the coveted trophy as India were defeated by defending champions Australia Women in the summit clash at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground. The credit behind the rich success of the Indian Women’s team has to go to former Indian cricketer and the head coach of the Women’s team, WV Raman, who took the baton forward at a time when controversies had started to mar women’s cricket. After India’s successful campaign in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, Raman has said that he is trying to create a team that will stick together and dominate world cricket. ALSO READ: 'The need of the hour is to..' - Virat Kohli, Anushka Sharma urge people to act together against COVID-19 Raman further said that the performance in the showpiece event has boosted everyone’s confidence in the dressing room and the players can now bank on the experience in crunch matches. “I’m trying to create a team which will play together for 6-8 years and dominate world cricket. That’s what sets the Australian team apart. As a team, they have played quite a few finals together and that’s the reason why they dominated the World Cup,” Raman told a leading daily. ALSO READ: Should MS Dhoni play in ICC T20 World Cup 2020? Sunil Gavaskar gives his take “Their performance has given everyone a lot of confidence and has shown Indian cricket can be a dominant force in the women’s category as well. They are a young side and their performance was important to inspire girls, especially those who are on the threshold of deciding whether to take up women’s cricket as a profession,” he added. The likes of Poonam Yadav, Deepti Sharma, Shafali Verma stood out in the Indian team as the girls left everyone stunned with their ability to turn a match single-handedly. While the experienced campaigners in Smriti Mandhana and Harmanpreet didn’t perform to the best of their ability, it didn’t let anyone in the team affect their respective performances.

Trying to create a team which will dominate world cricket: WV Raman on Indian Women team's future

Japan has spent over 12.5 billion dollars on the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. The International Olympic Committee draws a fair amount of its finances from broadcast rights, and of course, they have a conflict of interest when it comes to deciding if the games go ahead or not, but is anyone asking the real stakeholders, the athletes over what they think should happen.&nbsp;

WION reached out to more than 50 of India's most respected sporting voices including Olympic medalists, past and present, and a majority want the games to be postponed.

The push back has begun as athletes are stunned by the determination of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to push on with the 2020 Tokyo Games despite the coronavirus outbreak.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/abhinav-bindra-2008-olympic-champion-shooting-287427/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The IOC held a conference call with representatives of athletes commissions from 2020 Olympic committees on Wednesday.

The IOC admits that the situation is not ideal as they look for exceptional solutions that depart from precedent - but the question remains, why not just push it back till all is safe?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/michael-nobbs-former-indian-hockey-coach-287423/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Interestingly - the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) hasn't revealed who represented India's athletes in the emergency board meeting and members of IOA’s commission have confirmed to WION that they are not aware as well.

So has anyone reached out at all or is the IOA simply following the diktat from the IOC to present an all is well scenario?

WION reached out to 50 of India’s most prominent Olympic figures – including athletes, medalists and coaches. The results are staggering! More than 60 per cent do not feel safe in the current environment and want the games to be postponed if no cure is found by the end of May.&nbsp;

“Talking about the situation of coronavirus I think Olympics might get postponed because it's been really bad all around the world. As you know, they have cancelled all the tournaments and talking about the Olympics, I really don't know because anything can happen at the last moment, anything might happen because the government is there to take decisions and if things get really really bad then they might postpone the games,” 2016 Olympic silver medalist, PV Sindhu told WION.

“But we will be getting prepared but we know never know until the end and apart from that it's really important to be safe. People who are not feeling well, you really need to be far from them and use hand sanitizers all the time. And definitely, things will change and the government is there for all of us,” the reigning Badminton World Champion added.

<img alt="PV Sindhu" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2fae80d0-b366-4f9f-a09c-3acc406f103d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1JR7CZ.jpg" />

There are some who feel the games should go ahead - they include shooters like Manu Bhaker, Apurvi Chandela, Sanjeev Rajput and Mairaj Khan who have qualified for the games - and others who work closely with Olympic athletes.

“The Olympics should go on. I am definitely in support of the Olympics going ahead as scheduled and as per the original plan. While the current situation is quite grave and things are shutting down, I think calmness will prevail over in the next few weeks. My sentiments are probably not echoed by many but if we do understand the dynamics of it and to postpone the Olympics will cause more disruption than having it on time and while a lot of athletes have voiced their opinion on the postponement of the Olympics, I don't think the majority would be in that group,” Manisha Malhotra, the silver medalist in 2002 Asian Games, told WION.

“I think 50-60 per cent of athletes have already qualified for the Olympics and the ones who have not are the ones who are the most affected. But I think the way this virus is playing out and if we study what happened in China, the turnaround time to stop the spread is two months and we have that much time. We still have all of June and half of July and that should be okay going into the Olympics. It actually might benefit the athletes with final matching the qualification rounds,” she added.&nbsp;

The other major concern is that of training - lockdowns in place across many countries - especially in Europe have forced athletes to have to train in isolation - which is far from the ideal scenario heading into the biggest sporting competition of an athlete's career - but there seems to be no choice.

“The situation that the world is facing is completely unprecedented. I think no one was prepared for a situation such as this. An athlete’s life is all about adaptability. This is a skill that athletes do possess and this is a skill that needs to be put into good use in current times. Of course, there's an immense amount of uncertainty and speculation and in these times, athletes need to do two most important things: make sure they remain healthy, make sure everyone around them remain healthy and stay calm. In current times, there's lot of speculation and misinformation and I think the athletes would be in a good frame of mind if they look into information put forth by the experts, by the IOC, by the Athletes365 platform. The IOC has a task force with involvement of WHO which is monitoring the situation every single moment 24X7,” Abhinav Bindra, India’s only individual Olympic gold medalist told WION.

“The IOC came out with guiding principles of what will happen in the future and the guiding principle states that the first thing going forward is first to protect the health of everybody involved and support the containment of this virus. The WHO has told the IOC that it is too early to say whether Tokyo 2020 happens or not whether it is safe or not. What is important at the moment is to remain patient. In regards to being in top shape, I think in current times, it is completely secondary at the moment. The first priority must be that everybody takes care of their health and everybody around them. If they are able to do that then I am sure their performance will come into play and will be absolutely fine. Nothing will happen in a couple of weeks and athletes shouldn't worry if they are not able to train to the best of their limit in these couple of weeks that their performance will go down,” Bindra, who is a member of IOC Athlete’s Commission, added.&nbsp;

<img alt="abhinav bindra" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="913a3d1d-db4b-415c-aa24-e72225c11449" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_Del218640.jpg" />

Many Indian athletes have a few key questions which they want to be addressed.

If health is the primary concern - how can the IOC ask athletes to continue training, when its own offices in Lausanne are shut down and employees have been asked to work from home?

What is the pressing need to hold the games in July when the 1964 Tokyo Olympics were held in October and a precedent exists, they ask.

Can the IOC really vouch for the safety of the at least 50,000 athletes, officials, support staff, contractors, media personnel who attend the games? - and this number does not include spectators.

Is there any point in pressing ahead with the games - when the participation of athletes from sporting superpowers like the USA and a host of European countries remains doubtful due to the lockdowns &amp; travel restrictions in place?

“This is an unprecedented scenario we are going through. We have never seen these kinds of conditions ever. Forget about the athletes, normal people are locked down. They can't go out. And forget about the peaking of performance but they are not even able to qualify. I think 10-20 per cent of the athletes, worldwide, are yet to qualify. And among them, there would be elite athletes who are medal contenders and if they are left out of the competition, I think the results will be shocking!” Joydeep Karmakar, an Arjuna Award awardee and the man who famously finished 4th in Men's Prone at the 2012 London Games, told WION.

“It cannot be predicted but the best might miss the bus and unprecedented results can come out of the Olympics as well. So preparation is hit, people are not being able to qualify for the Olympics. So what will happen at the Olympics, if it does at all take place at the right time, I don't know the outcome and surely those who have qualified now it is hard time they are going through,” Karmakar, who has more than 100 medals at the National Championships and numerous International medals, Commonwealth Champion, Australian Open Champion, added.

<img alt="Joydeep Karmakar" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="46f3e26e-2766-4b3f-95b2-ed89284ccdc9" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_DV27655.jpg" />

The athlete is the centerpiece of the Olympic movement. The IOC claims to be the protector of their best interests, so perhaps it is time for it to listen to their voices and put their needs ahead of commercial obligations.

"It probably should be delayed. It could be delayed until November and I think that would be really good. The June-July time in Japan is unbearably hot and some terrible time to play. It's called the suicide time in Japan simply because the conditions are so unbearable. And in terms of players' safety with the virus and everything, I don't think that's a real issue because the athletes are in the village and are secluded when they get in. My greatest concern would be spectators. I think it is probably fair because all the countries are in the same position at this stage. By November, hopefully, things will settle down but at this moment, it's all same for everyone, they are all training at home. So let's see,"&nbsp; Michael Nobbs, the&nbsp;member of Australia men's national field hockey team at the 1984 Olympics and the former coach of Indian national field hockey team, told WION.

<img alt="Michael Nobbs" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4efb17f0-5a4e-41e8-aa0c-ba5bcc2812e2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_DV1221093.jpg" />

The athlete is the centerpiece of the Olympic movement and sporting bodies definitely need to communicate directly with their sportspersons.&nbsp;

The Olympics are the greatest sporting event on the planet and should definitely go ahead, but at a time when it is safe for all stakeholders.

Japan has spent over 12.5 billion dollars on the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. The International Olympic Committee draws a fair amount of its finances from broadcast rights, and of course, they have a conflict of interest when it comes to deciding if the games go ahead or not, but is anyone asking the real stakeholders, the athletes over what they think should happen.

Japan has spent over 12.5 billion dollars on the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. The International Olympic Committee draws a fair amount of its finances from broadcast rights, and of course, they have a conflict of interest when it comes to deciding if the games go ahead or not, but is anyone asking the real stakeholders, the athletes over what they think should happen. WION reached out to more than 50 of India's most respected sporting voices including Olympic medalists, past and present, and a majority want the games to be postponed. The push back has begun as athletes are stunned by the determination of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to push on with the 2020 Tokyo Games despite the coronavirus outbreak. The IOC held a conference call with representatives of athletes commissions from 2020 Olympic committees on Wednesday. The IOC admits that the situation is not ideal as they look for exceptional solutions that depart from precedent - but the question remains, why not just push it back till all is safe? Interestingly - the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) hasn't revealed who represented India's athletes in the emergency board meeting and members of IOA’s commission have confirmed to WION that they are not aware as well. So has anyone reached out at all or is the IOA simply following the diktat from the IOC to present an all is well scenario? WION reached out to 50 of India’s most prominent Olympic figures – including athletes, medalists and coaches. The results are staggering! More than 60 per cent do not feel safe in the current environment and want the games to be postponed if no cure is found by the end of May. “Talking about the situation of coronavirus I think Olympics might get postponed because it's been really bad all around the world. As you know, they have cancelled all the tournaments and talking about the Olympics, I really don't know because anything can happen at the last moment, anything might happen because the government is there to take decisions and if things get really really bad then they might postpone the games,” 2016 Olympic silver medalist, PV Sindhu told WION. “But we will be getting prepared but we know never know until the end and apart from that it's really important to be safe. People who are not feeling well, you really need to be far from them and use hand sanitizers all the time. And definitely, things will change and the government is there for all of us,” the reigning Badminton World Champion added. There are some who feel the games should go ahead - they include shooters like Manu Bhaker, Apurvi Chandela, Sanjeev Rajput and Mairaj Khan who have qualified for the games - and others who work closely with Olympic athletes. “The Olympics should go on. I am definitely in support of the Olympics going ahead as scheduled and as per the original plan. While the current situation is quite grave and things are shutting down, I think calmness will prevail over in the next few weeks. My sentiments are probably not echoed by many but if we do understand the dynamics of it and to postpone the Olympics will cause more disruption than having it on time and while a lot of athletes have voiced their opinion on the postponement of the Olympics, I don't think the majority would be in that group,” Manisha Malhotra, the silver medalist in 2002 Asian Games, told WION. “I think 50-60 per cent of athletes have already qualified for the Olympics and the ones who have not are the ones who are the most affected. But I think the way this virus is playing out and if we study what happened in China, the turnaround time to stop the spread is two months and we have that much time. We still have all of June and half of July and that should be okay going into the Olympics. It actually might benefit the athletes with final matching the qualification rounds,” she added. The other major concern is that of training - lockdowns in place across many countries - especially in Europe have forced athletes to have to train in isolation - which is far from the ideal scenario heading into the biggest sporting competition of an athlete's career - but there seems to be no choice. “The situation that the world is facing is completely unprecedented. I think no one was prepared for a situation such as this. An athlete’s life is all about adaptability. This is a skill that athletes do possess and this is a skill that needs to be put into good use in current times. Of course, there's an immense amount of uncertainty and speculation and in these times, athletes need to do two most important things: make sure they remain healthy, make sure everyone around them remain healthy and stay calm. In current times, there's lot of speculation and misinformation and I think the athletes would be in a good frame of mind if they look into information put forth by the experts, by the IOC, by the Athletes365 platform. The IOC has a task force with involvement of WHO which is monitoring the situation every single moment 24X7,” Abhinav Bindra, India’s only individual Olympic gold medalist told WION. “The IOC came out with guiding principles of what will happen in the future and the guiding principle states that the first thing going forward is first to protect the health of everybody involved and support the containment of this virus. The WHO has told the IOC that it is too early to say whether Tokyo 2020 happens or not whether it is safe or not. What is important at the moment is to remain patient. In regards to being in top shape, I think in current times, it is completely secondary at the moment. The first priority must be that everybody takes care of their health and everybody around them. If they are able to do that then I am sure their performance will come into play and will be absolutely fine. Nothing will happen in a couple of weeks and athletes shouldn't worry if they are not able to train to the best of their limit in these couple of weeks that their performance will go down,” Bindra, who is a member of IOC Athlete’s Commission, added. Many Indian athletes have a few key questions which they want to be addressed. If health is the primary concern - how can the IOC ask athletes to continue training, when its own offices in Lausanne are shut down and employees have been asked to work from home? What is the pressing need to hold the games in July when the 1964 Tokyo Olympics were held in October and a precedent exists, they ask. Can the IOC really vouch for the safety of the at least 50,000 athletes, officials, support staff, contractors, media personnel who attend the games? - and this number does not include spectators. Is there any point in pressing ahead with the games - when the participation of athletes from sporting superpowers like the USA and a host of European countries remains doubtful due to the lockdowns & travel restrictions in place? “This is an unprecedented scenario we are going through. We have never seen these kinds of conditions ever. Forget about the athletes, normal people are locked down. They can't go out. And forget about the peaking of performance but they are not even able to qualify. I think 10-20 per cent of the athletes, worldwide, are yet to qualify. And among them, there would be elite athletes who are medal contenders and if they are left out of the competition, I think the results will be shocking!” Joydeep Karmakar, an Arjuna Award awardee and the man who famously finished 4th in Men's Prone at the 2012 London Games, told WION. “It cannot be predicted but the best might miss the bus and unprecedented results can come out of the Olympics as well. So preparation is hit, people are not being able to qualify for the Olympics. So what will happen at the Olympics, if it does at all take place at the right time, I don't know the outcome and surely those who have qualified now it is hard time they are going through,” Karmakar, who has more than 100 medals at the National Championships and numerous International medals, Commonwealth Champion, Australian Open Champion, added. The athlete is the centerpiece of the Olympic movement. The IOC claims to be the protector of their best interests, so perhaps it is time for it to listen to their voices and put their needs ahead of commercial obligations. "It probably should be delayed. It could be delayed until November and I think that would be really good. The June-July time in Japan is unbearably hot and some terrible time to play. It's called the suicide time in Japan simply because the conditions are so unbearable. And in terms of players' safety with the virus and everything, I don't think that's a real issue because the athletes are in the village and are secluded when they get in. My greatest concern would be spectators. I think it is probably fair because all the countries are in the same position at this stage. By November, hopefully, things will settle down but at this moment, it's all same for everyone, they are all training at home. So let's see," Michael Nobbs, the member of Australia men's national field hockey team at the 1984 Olympics and the former coach of Indian national field hockey team, told WION. The athlete is the centerpiece of the Olympic movement and sporting bodies definitely need to communicate directly with their sportspersons. The Olympics are the greatest sporting event on the planet and should definitely go ahead, but at a time when it is safe for all stakeholders.

EXCLUSIVE: India's leading sporting voices prefer Olympic postponement

All the players and coaching staff of the New Zealand cricket team have been put under 14-day self-isolation following their return to their homeland from Australia amid the coronavirus pandemic. New Zealand Cricket (NZC) on Thursday confirmed that all the 15 players and staff members who returned from Australia last weekend have been put under lockdown at their respective residences following Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern’s statement on March 18.&nbsp;

The New Zealand prime minister had directed all the travelers to self-isolate for at least 14 days due to the COVID-19 pandemic even if they arrive in the country ahead of Saturday’s cut-off time.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sachin-tendulkar-urges-everyone-to-draw-lessons-from-test-cricket-to-tackle-covid-19-287309">Sachin Tendulkar urges everyone to draw lessons from Test cricket to tackle COVID-19</a>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">New Zealand cricket players go into self-isolation</h2>

“They [Black Caps players and touring staff] have all gone into self-isolation. We’ve passed on all the details about what self-isolation means and as far as we know they’re all following it strictly,” NZC public affairs manager, Richard Boock said.&nbsp;

New Zealand and Australia had started the Chappell-Hadlee series behind closed doors but the three-match ODI series was called off after the completion of the first ODI which Australia won by 71 runs at the empty Sydney Cricket Ground.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/team-india-cant-look-beyond-ms-dhoni-if-he-is-fit-and-firing-wasim-jaffer-287325">Team India can't look beyond MS Dhoni if he is fit and firing: Wasim Jaffer</a>

While there were reports that Kiwi speedster Lockie Ferguson had shown symptoms of COVID-19, he tested negative and was eventually sent back to New Zealand immediately.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, all sporting events have been either cancelled or postponed amid the coronavirus scare. However, the good news in this dire situation is that no cricketer has been tested positive for the novel coronavirus thus far.&nbsp; 
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All the players and coaching staff of the New Zealand cricket team have been put under 14-day self-isolation following their return to their homeland from Australia amid the coronavirus pandemic.

All the players and coaching staff of the New Zealand cricket team have been put under 14-day self-isolation following their return to their homeland from Australia amid the coronavirus pandemic. New Zealand Cricket (NZC) on Thursday confirmed that all the 15 players and staff members who returned from Australia last weekend have been put under lockdown at their respective residences following Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern’s statement on March 18. The New Zealand prime minister had directed all the travelers to self-isolate for at least 14 days due to the COVID-19 pandemic even if they arrive in the country ahead of Saturday’s cut-off time. ALSO READ: Sachin Tendulkar urges everyone to draw lessons from Test cricket to tackle COVID-19 New Zealand cricket players go into self-isolation “They [Black Caps players and touring staff] have all gone into self-isolation. We’ve passed on all the details about what self-isolation means and as far as we know they’re all following it strictly,” NZC public affairs manager, Richard Boock said. New Zealand and Australia had started the Chappell-Hadlee series behind closed doors but the three-match ODI series was called off after the completion of the first ODI which Australia won by 71 runs at the empty Sydney Cricket Ground. ALSO READ: Team India can't look beyond MS Dhoni if he is fit and firing: Wasim Jaffer While there were reports that Kiwi speedster Lockie Ferguson had shown symptoms of COVID-19, he tested negative and was eventually sent back to New Zealand immediately. Meanwhile, all sporting events have been either cancelled or postponed amid the coronavirus scare. However, the good news in this dire situation is that no cricketer has been tested positive for the novel coronavirus thus far.

New Zealand cricket players and support staff go into self-isolation after returning from Australia

There has been a lot of talks surrounding split captaincy in the Indian cricket team. While Virat Kohli has done tremendously well in leading the Men in Blue across formats, there have been calls to make Rohit Sharma the skipper of the T20I side. Former chairman of selectors – MSK Prasad – was of the view that there’s no point in the change of captaincy as leadership brings the best of Kohli. And now Kohli’s childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma has responded to the calls that the Indian cricket team should adopt to the split captaincy system which has seen the likes of Australia and England reach greater heights.

Rajkumar opined that split captaincy culture is not there in Indian cricket while adding as long as Kohli is capable of leading the team and is performing well at the same time, then he should continue leading Team India across formats. However, Rajkumar did praise Rohit for his captaincy in the Indian Premier League for Mumbai Indians.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/team-india-cant-look-beyond-ms-dhoni-if-he-is-fit-and-firing-wasim-jaffer-287325">Team India can't look beyond MS Dhoni if he is fit and firing: Wasim Jaffer</a>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">"I don't think there is split captaincy culture here"</h2>

“As long as Virat is capable and if the team is doing well in all three formats......I don't think there is split captaincy culture here (Indian cricket). I think that he should continue as long as he is performing well. Rohit Sharma is a brilliant captain. He has won IPL four times and is a brilliant captain in T20 format but as far as captaining India team goes, Virat Kohli is doing well and he should continue as captain,” Rajkumar told a leading media outlet.

Earlier, Prasad had said if the skipper of Indian team is the number one batsman in all formats then there should be no problem in him leading the team while adding that Kohli’s strategies have worked wonders for the Men in Blue in all formats of the game.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sachin-tendulkar-urges-everyone-to-draw-lessons-from-test-cricket-to-tackle-covid-19-287309">Sachin Tendulkar urges everyone to draw lessons from Test cricket to tackle COVID-19</a>

“I don't agree with it (having different captains in different formats). Virat loves captaincy and captaincy brings best out of Virat. His performances haven't dropped because of captaincy. And when our captain is number 1 batsman in all formats......what's the problem? He has been coming up world-class performances across formats. His strategy is working well in all formats,” Prasad had earlier said.

Meanwhile, with the cricketing action coming to an unusual halt due to the novel coronavirus, it remains to be seen when the matches resume in the gentlemen’s game. 
<o:p></o:p>

There has been a lot of talks surrounding split captaincy in the Indian cricket team. While Virat Kohli has done tremendously well in leading the Men in Blue across formats, there have been calls to make Rohit Sharma the skipper of the T20I side.

There has been a lot of talks surrounding split captaincy in the Indian cricket team. While Virat Kohli has done tremendously well in leading the Men in Blue across formats, there have been calls to make Rohit Sharma the skipper of the T20I side. Former chairman of selectors – MSK Prasad – was of the view that there’s no point in the change of captaincy as leadership brings the best of Kohli. And now Kohli’s childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma has responded to the calls that the Indian cricket team should adopt to the split captaincy system which has seen the likes of Australia and England reach greater heights. Rajkumar opined that split captaincy culture is not there in Indian cricket while adding as long as Kohli is capable of leading the team and is performing well at the same time, then he should continue leading Team India across formats. However, Rajkumar did praise Rohit for his captaincy in the Indian Premier League for Mumbai Indians. ALSO READ: Team India can't look beyond MS Dhoni if he is fit and firing: Wasim Jaffer "I don't think there is split captaincy culture here" “As long as Virat is capable and if the team is doing well in all three formats......I don't think there is split captaincy culture here (Indian cricket). I think that he should continue as long as he is performing well. Rohit Sharma is a brilliant captain. He has won IPL four times and is a brilliant captain in T20 format but as far as captaining India team goes, Virat Kohli is doing well and he should continue as captain,” Rajkumar told a leading media outlet. Earlier, Prasad had said if the skipper of Indian team is the number one batsman in all formats then there should be no problem in him leading the team while adding that Kohli’s strategies have worked wonders for the Men in Blue in all formats of the game. ALSO READ: Sachin Tendulkar urges everyone to draw lessons from Test cricket to tackle COVID-19 “I don't agree with it (having different captains in different formats). Virat loves captaincy and captaincy brings best out of Virat. His performances haven't dropped because of captaincy. And when our captain is number 1 batsman in all formats......what's the problem? He has been coming up world-class performances across formats. His strategy is working well in all formats,” Prasad had earlier said. Meanwhile, with the cricketing action coming to an unusual halt due to the novel coronavirus, it remains to be seen when the matches resume in the gentlemen’s game.

'Rohit Sharma is a brilliant skipper but...' - Virat Kohli's childhood coach opines on spit captaincy calls in Indian cricket team

Russia may have suspended all basketball, football and ice hockey fixtures over the coronavirus pandemic, but sports fans may find solace in a different competition beginning this week: chess.

The 2020 Candidates Tournament opened in a luxury hotel in the Urals city of Yekaterinburg this week despite a large series of suspensions of sporting events in Russia and Europe to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Europe's football governing body UEFA said Tuesday it was postponing the EURO 2020 championship involving 24 nations due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The chess tournament that began Monday sees eight players compete for 500,000 euros ($545,000 and the chance to face off against the world number one, 29-year-old Magnus Carlsen from Norway, who has held the world's number 1 place since 2013.&nbsp;

The games between players from countries including the United States and China are being broadcast on a YouTube channel run by the International Chess Federation (FIDE) with commentary in Chinese, Russian and English.

FIDE has banned live spectators to limit the risks linked to the pandemic, but reported on Twitter Tuesday that one million virtual spectators had tuned in from China.&nbsp;

It also posted pictures of competitors touching elbows before a game rather than shaking hands.

In March, the organisation addressed concerns over the virus saying that postponement was "not legally and practically feasible," unless ordered by the Russian authorities.

Photographers are only allowed "a distance of at least 6 metres from the players," said FIDE, one of the last international sports organisations where Russia maintains an influence inherited from the Soviet Union.

"Being an elite, 8-player tournament, the reduced number of participants allows us to monitor their personal circumstances, health status, and provide them personal attention," the tournament said.&nbsp;

Moscow on Wednesday reported 147 cases of coronavirus with no deaths, according to official figures.&nbsp;

Russia has also closed its borders to foreigners on Wednesday until May 1 to slow the spread of the virus.

Russia may have suspended all basketball, football and ice hockey fixtures over the coronavirus pandemic, but sports fans may find solace in a different competition beginning this week: chess.

Russia may have suspended all basketball, football and ice hockey fixtures over the coronavirus pandemic, but sports fans may find solace in a different competition beginning this week: chess. The 2020 Candidates Tournament opened in a luxury hotel in the Urals city of Yekaterinburg this week despite a large series of suspensions of sporting events in Russia and Europe to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Europe's football governing body UEFA said Tuesday it was postponing the EURO 2020 championship involving 24 nations due to the coronavirus pandemic. The chess tournament that began Monday sees eight players compete for 500,000 euros ($545,000 and the chance to face off against the world number one, 29-year-old Magnus Carlsen from Norway, who has held the world's number 1 place since 2013. The games between players from countries including the United States and China are being broadcast on a YouTube channel run by the International Chess Federation (FIDE) with commentary in Chinese, Russian and English. FIDE has banned live spectators to limit the risks linked to the pandemic, but reported on Twitter Tuesday that one million virtual spectators had tuned in from China. It also posted pictures of competitors touching elbows before a game rather than shaking hands. In March, the organisation addressed concerns over the virus saying that postponement was "not legally and practically feasible," unless ordered by the Russian authorities. Photographers are only allowed "a distance of at least 6 metres from the players," said FIDE, one of the last international sports organisations where Russia maintains an influence inherited from the Soviet Union. "Being an elite, 8-player tournament, the reduced number of participants allows us to monitor their personal circumstances, health status, and provide them personal attention," the tournament said. Moscow on Wednesday reported 147 cases of coronavirus with no deaths, according to official figures. Russia has also closed its borders to foreigners on Wednesday until May 1 to slow the spread of the virus.

Missing sports on TV? Russians still have chess

India's former world number one Saina Nehwal said officials had put profits ahead of player welfare by allowing the All England badminton championship to go ahead last weekend despite the coronavirus pandemic.

The competition was one of the few international sporting events to conclude Sunday amid the deadly outbreak, which has claimed thousands of lives across the globe.

"Only thing I can think of is that rather than the players welfare n feelings, financial reasons were given more importance," Nehwal, who won bronze at the 2012 London Olympics, wrote on Twitter.

"Otherwise there was no other reason for the #AllEnglandOpen2020 to go on last week."

Denmark's Viktor Axelsen clinched his first All England title, while&nbsp;Tai Tzu-ying of Taiwan regained the women's singles crown.

Nehwal bowed out of the event in the first round and is racing against time to qualify for the Olympics scheduled to begin on July 24.

Several players took part in the All England Open -- an Olympic qualification event -- and Nehwal's husband, Indian player Parupalli Kashyap, said the players were "under pressure" to play.

The Badminton World Federation (BWF) has suspended all tournaments until April 12 due to the virus, badly affecting Olympic qualifying which closes on April 30

India's former world number one Saina Nehwal said officials had put profits ahead of player welfare by allowing the All England badminton championship to go ahead last weekend despite the coronavirus pandemic.

India's former world number one Saina Nehwal said officials had put profits ahead of player welfare by allowing the All England badminton championship to go ahead last weekend despite the coronavirus pandemic. The competition was one of the few international sporting events to conclude Sunday amid the deadly outbreak, which has claimed thousands of lives across the globe. "Only thing I can think of is that rather than the players welfare n feelings, financial reasons were given more importance," Nehwal, who won bronze at the 2012 London Olympics, wrote on Twitter. "Otherwise there was no other reason for the #AllEnglandOpen2020 to go on last week." Denmark's Viktor Axelsen clinched his first All England title, while Tai Tzu-ying of Taiwan regained the women's singles crown. Nehwal bowed out of the event in the first round and is racing against time to qualify for the Olympics scheduled to begin on July 24. Several players took part in the All England Open -- an Olympic qualification event -- and Nehwal's husband, Indian player Parupalli Kashyap, said the players were "under pressure" to play. The Badminton World Federation (BWF) has suspended all tournaments until April 12 due to the virus, badly affecting Olympic qualifying which closes on April 30

All England badminton chose finances over players welfare: Saina Nehwal

As the bright lights of professional sports go dark across the United States this week, some top names from the NBA were pitching in to ease the burden for arena and stadium staff facing the grim possibility of weeks without pay in the coronavirus shutdown.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-basketball-league-gets-suspended-after-player-tests-positive-for-coronavirus-285780">NBA: Basketball league gets suspended after player tests positive for coronavirus</a>

The basketball league announced Wednesday (March 11) that it was indefinitely suspending its season in light of the COVID-19 outbreak, upending daily life for thousands of concession employees, ushers and custodians who rely on games for a paycheck.

Cleveland Cavaliers forward Kevin Love announced he was donating $100,000 to his team's arena support staff and called on others to make similar gestures.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/how-the-coronavirus-has-hit-global-sport-286200">How the coronavirus has hit global sport</a>

Pistons forward Blake Griffin followed up, writing on Twitter that he was "just following suit." He did not elaborate but media outlets reported that he would donate $100,000 to staff at Detroit's Little Caesars Arena.

New Orleans Pelicans star rookie Zion Williamson said on Instagram that he would cover salaries for all workers at the Smoothie King Center for 30 days.

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Love This!!! Take care of the people who take care of you!!! <a href="https://t.co/iV89gE4yVI">https://t.co/iV89gE4yVI</a>
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&nbsp;

Milwaukee Bucks' Giannis Antetokounmpo, one of the top scorers in the league, said on Friday (March 13) that he and his family planned to donate $100,000 to staff members at the Fiserv Forum.

"It's bigger than basketball!" Antetokounmpo wrote on Twitter. "I want to help the people that make my life, my family's lives and my teammates lives easier."

Team owners have begun their own gestures as well.

The Cleveland Cavaliers said on Twitter that they would pay hourly and event staff members at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, while Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban told ESPN that he would make sure hourly workers would be compensated.

Alibaba co-founder and Brooklyn Nets owner Joe Tsai wrote on Twitter that he was also working on a plan regarding non-salaried employees.

In Rhode Island, two children tested positive for coronavirus with local police saying one of the children had recently gotten an autograph from a Utah Jazz player who tested positive for the virus.

According to local reports, the children are doing well and it is unknown whether the virus was transmitted from the player when the Jazz were in nearby Boston last week to play the Celtics.

As the bright lights of professional sports go dark across the United States this week, some top names from the NBA were pitching in to ease the burden for arena and stadium staff facing the grim possibility of weeks without pay in the coronavirus shutdown.

As the bright lights of professional sports go dark across the United States this week, some top names from the NBA were pitching in to ease the burden for arena and stadium staff facing the grim possibility of weeks without pay in the coronavirus shutdown. Also read: NBA: Basketball league gets suspended after player tests positive for coronavirus The basketball league announced Wednesday (March 11) that it was indefinitely suspending its season in light of the COVID-19 outbreak, upending daily life for thousands of concession employees, ushers and custodians who rely on games for a paycheck. Cleveland Cavaliers forward Kevin Love announced he was donating $100,000 to his team's arena support staff and called on others to make similar gestures. Also read: How the coronavirus has hit global sport Pistons forward Blake Griffin followed up, writing on Twitter that he was "just following suit." He did not elaborate but media outlets reported that he would donate $100,000 to staff at Detroit's Little Caesars Arena. New Orleans Pelicans star rookie Zion Williamson said on Instagram that he would cover salaries for all workers at the Smoothie King Center for 30 days. Love This!!! Take care of the people who take care of you!!! https://t.co/iV89gE4yVI — Kevin Love (@kevinlove) March 13, 2020 × Milwaukee Bucks' Giannis Antetokounmpo, one of the top scorers in the league, said on Friday (March 13) that he and his family planned to donate $100,000 to staff members at the Fiserv Forum. "It's bigger than basketball!" Antetokounmpo wrote on Twitter. "I want to help the people that make my life, my family's lives and my teammates lives easier." Team owners have begun their own gestures as well. The Cleveland Cavaliers said on Twitter that they would pay hourly and event staff members at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, while Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban told ESPN that he would make sure hourly workers would be compensated. Alibaba co-founder and Brooklyn Nets owner Joe Tsai wrote on Twitter that he was also working on a plan regarding non-salaried employees. In Rhode Island, two children tested positive for coronavirus with local police saying one of the children had recently gotten an autograph from a Utah Jazz player who tested positive for the virus. According to local reports, the children are doing well and it is unknown whether the virus was transmitted from the player when the Jazz were in nearby Boston last week to play the Celtics.

NBA players and owners pledge donations for workers affected by shutdown; child contracts coronavirus

England's cricket team abruptly pulled out of a tour of Sri Lanka on Friday over the "unprecedented" crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

A practice match in Colombo was halted as the team announced they would be flying back to London, and the first of two Test matches due to start on March 19 has been indefinitely postponed.

"At this time, the physical and mental wellbeing of our players and support teams is paramount," said an England and Wales Cricket Board statement announcing the end of the tour.

"We will now look to bring them home to their families as soon as possible. These are completely unprecedented times, and decisions like this go beyond cricket."

The four-day practice game against a Sri Lankan Board President's XI side was halted near the end of the second day.

England were fielding when captain Joe Root came on to call the players off.

The match attracted few spectators. Only a handful of England fans and a dozen locals were at the grounds to watch the two teams ahead of the first Test in Galle.

Root made it clear this week that players had been told to take extra precautions and not have contact with fans or members of the opposing team.

"It is against our nature as a team, we quite like to socialise and interact with fans and take selfies, autographs and stuff. But it means that we can't do that on this trip," Root told reporters on Wednesday.

There were no handshakes between the teams before the practice game.

Sri Lanka has reported just three coronavirus cases since the start of the crisis which has left more than 4,300 dead around the world.

"We were told that England wants to return because of the threat of the coronavirus," a Sri Lankan cricket official told AFP.

"They decided to stop the practice match immediately and get back home."

The move came as Sri Lanka shut schools across the country and banned travellers from Iran, Italy and South Korea and stopped issuing on-arrival visas to nationals of 48 countries, including Britain.

England's cricket team abruptly pulled out of a tour of Sri Lanka on Friday over the "unprecedented" crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic. A practice match in Colombo was halted as the team announced they would be flying back to London, and the first of two Test matches due to start on March 19 has been indefinitely postponed.

England's cricket team abruptly pulled out of a tour of Sri Lanka on Friday over the "unprecedented" crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic. A practice match in Colombo was halted as the team announced they would be flying back to London, and the first of two Test matches due to start on March 19 has been indefinitely postponed. "At this time, the physical and mental wellbeing of our players and support teams is paramount," said an England and Wales Cricket Board statement announcing the end of the tour. "We will now look to bring them home to their families as soon as possible. These are completely unprecedented times, and decisions like this go beyond cricket." The four-day practice game against a Sri Lankan Board President's XI side was halted near the end of the second day. England were fielding when captain Joe Root came on to call the players off. The match attracted few spectators. Only a handful of England fans and a dozen locals were at the grounds to watch the two teams ahead of the first Test in Galle. Root made it clear this week that players had been told to take extra precautions and not have contact with fans or members of the opposing team. "It is against our nature as a team, we quite like to socialise and interact with fans and take selfies, autographs and stuff. But it means that we can't do that on this trip," Root told reporters on Wednesday. There were no handshakes between the teams before the practice game. Sri Lanka has reported just three coronavirus cases since the start of the crisis which has left more than 4,300 dead around the world. "We were told that England wants to return because of the threat of the coronavirus," a Sri Lankan cricket official told AFP. "They decided to stop the practice match immediately and get back home." The move came as Sri Lanka shut schools across the country and banned travellers from Iran, Italy and South Korea and stopped issuing on-arrival visas to nationals of 48 countries, including Britain.

England end Sri Lanka cricket tour amid coronavirus pandemic

The Tokyo 2020 mascots, Miraitowa and Someity, left the Japanese capital for their 'Make the Beat' tour of Europe on Wednesday (February 19) following a bizarre ceremony held in the departure lounge of Haneda airport.

Tokyo 2020 mascots depart for European tour with bizarre send-off

RB Leipzig eased past struggling Werder Bremen 3-0 on Saturday to reclaim top spot in the Bundesliga, two points ahead of champions Bayern Munich. Having failed to win in their last four games in all competitions, Leipzig were desperate to bounce back on their home ground and Lukas Klostermann's 18th-minute goal quickly put them in the driving seat.

RB Leipzig eased past struggling Werder Bremen 3-0 on Saturday to reclaim top spot in the Bundesliga, two points ahead of champions Bayern Munich. Having failed to win in their last four games in all competitions, Leipzig were desperate to bounce back on their home ground and Lukas Klostermann's 18th-minute goal quickly put them in the driving seat. Patrik Schick, who had set up Klostermann, then grabbed one himself, heading in his sixth league goal in the 39th minute before Nordi Mukiele latched on to a deep through ball to fire in their third goal a minute after the restart. [ Leipzig's French defender Nordi Mukiele (C) scores the 3-0 goal past Bremen's Czech goalkeeper Jiri Pavlenka (R) during the German first division Bundesliga football match (Courtesy: AFP) ] Leipzig, who face Tottenham Hotspur in the Champions League last-16 on Wednesday, move up to 45 points, with Bayern, in action against Cologne on Sunday, on 43. Borussia Dortmund, winners 4-0 over Eintracht Frankfurt on Friday, are in third place on 42. "We played a good game and fully deserved to win," Czech international Schick told reporters. "I am happy for my goal but more importantly it is a big boost ahead of Spurs." Lars Stindl scored twice as Borussia Moenchengladbach stormed to a 4-1 win at Fortuna Duesseldorf - their first away win since November - to join Dortmund on 42 points. Also Read: Claudio Pizarro joins Werder Bremen for a fourth and final stint Former champions Werder, who have now lost eight of their last nine league games, are stuck in 17th place, a point above last-placed Paderborn. Bayer Leverkusen kept their Champions League hopes intact when Karim Bellarabi struck in stoppage time to secure a hard-fought 3-2 victory at Union Berlin to keep them within striking distance of a top-four spot, in fifth place on 40. The game was repeatedly interrupted after fans lit flares and smoke bombs in the stands. Hertha Berlin made a winning start to life after Juergen Klinsman, beating Paderborn 2-1 with a goal from Dedryck Boyata and an own goal from Jamilu Collins, in their first game since their former coach's surprise departure this week. Klinsmann, a former Germany and U.S. national team coach, quit after only 76 days in charge, complaining about a lack of trust and support. Hertha's win lifted them further away from the relegation zone and into 13th place. Dutchman Wout Weghorst scored a hat-trick in VfL Wolfsburg's 3-2 victory over Hoffenheim, who twice come back from a goal down only to lose.

Bundesliga: Leipzig back on top with 3-0 win over strugglers Werder

Liverpool manager&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-klopp-may-pull-liverpool-out-of-league-cup-over-fixture-pile-up-258925" target="_blank">Juergen Klopp</a>&nbsp;said he had sympathy for his Manchester City counterpart Pep Guardiola in the wake of the English champions' two-year ban from European football dished out by UEFA for allegedly breaching Financial Fair Play rules.

With City's domestic title challenge all but over, with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-boss-juergen-klopp-says-players-are-psychologically-ready-179931" target="_blank">Liverpool&nbsp;</a>25 points ahead after beating Norwich City 1-0 away on Saturday,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-might-need-105-points-to-win-title-says-juergen-klopp-185833" target="_blank">Klopp&nbsp;</a>said the news on Friday about the European ban for the Manchester club had taken him by surprise.

<img alt="Pep Guardiola" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="254c1184-8af6-40d3-814d-5c4ec6a07332" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2810%29_21.jpg" /> 
[&nbsp;Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola reacts (Courtesy: Reuters) ]

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-players-must-fight-with-every-fibre-juergen-klopp-196169" target="_blank">Liverpool players must fight with every fibre: Juergen Klopp</a>

"It was a shock. Complete wow!" he told Sky Sports. "The only thing I can say is about football. What they have done on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-was-clever-of-neymar-juergen-klopp-complains-of-psg-playacting-180211" target="_blank">the football pitch is exceptional</a>. The rest, I don't know. I feel for them, Pep and the players, but that is how it is. They can appeal so we will&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/juergen-klopp-hails-salahs-sensational-finish-267582" target="_blank">see what happens</a>&nbsp;then. It is serious."

"But the football they played was exceptional and will&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hes-still-an-influencer-in-football-says-juergen-klopp-on-wengers-outgoing-131709" target="_blank">always be exceptional</a>." European soccer's governing body UEFA said City had committed "serious breaches" of its FFP regulations by "overstating its sponsorship revenue in its accounts and the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-be-fooled-by-5-0-win-last-year-juergen-klopp-warns-liverpool-211084" target="_blank">break-even information</a>&nbsp;submitted to UEFA between 2012 and 2016."&nbsp;

City denied any wrongdoing and said they will appeal to the Swiss-based Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said he had sympathy for his Manchester City counterpart Pep Guardiola in the wake of the English champions' two-year ban from European football dished out by UEFA for allegedly breaching Financial Fair Play rules.

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said he had sympathy for his Manchester City counterpart Pep Guardiola in the wake of the English champions' two-year ban from European football dished out by UEFA for allegedly breaching Financial Fair Play rules. With City's domestic title challenge all but over, with Liverpool 25 points ahead after beating Norwich City 1-0 away on Saturday, Klopp said the news on Friday about the European ban for the Manchester club had taken him by surprise. [ Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola reacts (Courtesy: Reuters) ] Also Read: Liverpool players must fight with every fibre: Juergen Klopp "It was a shock. Complete wow!" he told Sky Sports. "The only thing I can say is about football. What they have done on the football pitch is exceptional. The rest, I don't know. I feel for them, Pep and the players, but that is how it is. They can appeal so we will see what happens then. It is serious." "But the football they played was exceptional and will always be exceptional." European soccer's governing body UEFA said City had committed "serious breaches" of its FFP regulations by "overstating its sponsorship revenue in its accounts and the break-even information submitted to UEFA between 2012 and 2016." City denied any wrongdoing and said they will appeal to the Swiss-based Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).

Klopp shows sympathy for Guardiola after Manchester City European ban

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/basketball-giannis-powers-nba-best-bucks-to-win-lakers-rip-spurs-278710" target="_blank">NBA</a>&nbsp;commissioner Adam Silver said Saturday the league expects to lose "several hundred million dollars" due to a row with China over a tweet by Houston Rockets general manager Daryl Morey supporting Hong Kong pro-democracy protesters.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/celebrity-news-oscars-2020-nba-legend-kobe-bryant-to-be-honoured-on-the-awards-night-277345" target="_blank">NBA's</a>&nbsp;Chinese sponsors cut ties in a fierce mainland backlash following Morey's tweet in October, just before two NBA teams played preseason exhibition matches in China.

State broadcaster CCTV also stopped airing&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/tonight-is-for-kobe-nba-legend-remembered-at-grammy-awards-hours-aftre-his-death-276826" target="_blank">NBA</a>&nbsp;games for the country's millions of ardent basketball fans and has not resumed.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-fines-orlando-magic-coach-steve-clifford-25k-over-outburst-279415" target="_blank">NBA fines Orlando Magic coach Steve Clifford $25K over outburst</a>

"The magnitude of the loss will be in the hundreds of millions of dollars," Silver told a press conference on the sidelines of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kobe-bryant-and-daughter-gianna-laid-to-rest-in-private-funeral-280401" target="_blank">All-Star</a>&nbsp;Weekend in Chicago.

"Probably less than $400 million, maybe even less than that," he said. However, "it's substantial", he added. "I don't want to run from that ... But I don't have any sense that there's any&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kobe-bryants-widow-vanessa-bryant-refuses-to-accept-death-of-her-husband-and-daughter-279982" target="_blank">permanent damage</a>&nbsp;to our business there."

The commissioner said he expected CCTV to resume broadcasts of NBA games but did not give a timeframe.

NBA commissioner Adam Silver said Saturday the league expects to lose "several hundred million dollars" due to a row with China over a tweet by Houston Rockets general manager Daryl Morey supporting Hong Kong pro-democracy protesters.

NBA commissioner Adam Silver said Saturday the league expects to lose "several hundred million dollars" due to a row with China over a tweet by Houston Rockets general manager Daryl Morey supporting Hong Kong pro-democracy protesters. The NBA's Chinese sponsors cut ties in a fierce mainland backlash following Morey's tweet in October, just before two NBA teams played preseason exhibition matches in China. State broadcaster CCTV also stopped airing NBA games for the country's millions of ardent basketball fans and has not resumed. Also Read: NBA fines Orlando Magic coach Steve Clifford $25K over outburst "The magnitude of the loss will be in the hundreds of millions of dollars," Silver told a press conference on the sidelines of the All-Star Weekend in Chicago. "Probably less than $400 million, maybe even less than that," he said. However, "it's substantial", he added. "I don't want to run from that ... But I don't have any sense that there's any permanent damage to our business there." The commissioner said he expected CCTV to resume broadcasts of NBA games but did not give a timeframe.

NBA loses 'hundreds of millions' in China over Hong Kong tweet

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-bayern-seal-last-16-berth-as-lewandowski-strikes-again-260439">Bayern Munich scored</a> three goals in the opening 26 minutes to defeat Mainz 05 3-1 away on Saturday and go a point clear at the top of the Bundesliga with their sixth straight win. Top scorer Robert Lewandowski headed in his 22nd league goal in the eighth minute and Thomas Mueller and Thiago Alcantara added two more to lift the Bavarians to 42 points, one ahead of RB Leipzig who drew 2-2 at home to Borussia Moenchengladbach.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bayern-demolish-schalke-lewandowski-strikes-early-276615">Bayern's fast start</a> was enough to kill off the game and Mainz, who cut the deficit on the stroke of halftime through Jeremiah St Juste, rarely threatened although Leandro Barreiro hit the post. The Bavarians also set a club record with 58 goals in their 20 league games in a boost for interim coach Hansi Flick, whose future at the club is still unclear.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-dortmund-loose-out-on-two-goal-lead-to-draw-3-3-with-rb-leipzig-268861">Football: Dortmund loose out on two-goal lead to draw 3-3 with RB Leipzig</a>

<img alt=" Benjamin Pavard" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="045e20c8-7192-46b9-b9a4-e39b48d5cf8e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202020-02-02T124532.290.jpg" /> 
[&nbsp;Bayern Munich's Benjamin Pavard in action (Courtesy: Reuters) ]

"I was fascinated by our opening 30 minutes," Flick said. "After that, we did too little. We took the speed and pace out of our game. "We defended well and brought the three points home," he said as Bayern prepare to face Leipzig next week. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bundesliga-hoffenheim-stun-borussia-dortmund-after-late-strike-269439">Borussia Dortmund</a> enjoyed an even more dominant afternoon, demolishing Union Berlin 5-0 with two goals from Norwegian sensation Erling Haaland, the first player in Bundesliga history to score seven goals in his first three matches.

Leipzig had to come from two goals behind to salvage a point against Gladbach thanks to Christopher Nkunku's 89th-minute equaliser. Gladbach, down to 10 men on the hour, had taken a 2-0 lead in the first half but a Patrik Schick goal in the 50th and Nkunku's shot rescued a point for the hosts. 
&nbsp;

Bayern Munich scored three goals in the opening 26 minutes to defeat Mainz 05 3-1 away on Saturday and go a point clear at the top of the Bundesliga with their sixth straight win.

Bayern Munich scored three goals in the opening 26 minutes to defeat Mainz 05 3-1 away on Saturday and go a point clear at the top of the Bundesliga with their sixth straight win. Top scorer Robert Lewandowski headed in his 22nd league goal in the eighth minute and Thomas Mueller and Thiago Alcantara added two more to lift the Bavarians to 42 points, one ahead of RB Leipzig who drew 2-2 at home to Borussia Moenchengladbach. Bayern's fast start was enough to kill off the game and Mainz, who cut the deficit on the stroke of halftime through Jeremiah St Juste, rarely threatened although Leandro Barreiro hit the post. The Bavarians also set a club record with 58 goals in their 20 league games in a boost for interim coach Hansi Flick, whose future at the club is still unclear. Also Read: Football: Dortmund loose out on two-goal lead to draw 3-3 with RB Leipzig [ Bayern Munich's Benjamin Pavard in action (Courtesy: Reuters) ] "I was fascinated by our opening 30 minutes," Flick said. "After that, we did too little. We took the speed and pace out of our game. "We defended well and brought the three points home," he said as Bayern prepare to face Leipzig next week. Borussia Dortmund enjoyed an even more dominant afternoon, demolishing Union Berlin 5-0 with two goals from Norwegian sensation Erling Haaland, the first player in Bundesliga history to score seven goals in his first three matches. Leipzig had to come from two goals behind to salvage a point against Gladbach thanks to Christopher Nkunku's 89th-minute equaliser. Gladbach, down to 10 men on the hour, had taken a 2-0 lead in the first half but a Patrik Schick goal in the 50th and Nkunku's shot rescued a point for the hosts.

Dortmund's Haaland scores; Bayern beat Mainz to reach the top

New Manchester United signing Bruno Fernandes was unable to inspire a victory on his debut on Saturday as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/with-rashford-sidelined-uniteds-solskjaer-eyes-signings-275370">Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side</a> were held to a 0-0 draw at home against Wolverhampton Wanderers in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-manchester-united-hit-new-low-after-getting-defeated-by-burnley-276109">Premier League</a>. The result leaves United in sixth place, six points behind Chelsea who occupy the fourth Champions League spot, while <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fa-cup-man-utd-held-by-wolves-man-city-cruise-through-272201">Wolves </a>are seventh, level on 35 points with United. Sheffield United are a point better off in fifth.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/solskjaers-man-utd-scrap-plans-to-set-training-camps-in-middle-east-amidst-high-tensions-274342">United </a>now have a two-week break before their crunch game against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Feb. 17. Portugal international Fernandes, who joined United on Thursday from Sporting in a move which reportedly cost an initial 55 million euros ($61 million), was thrown straight into the starting midfield. The 25-year-old was heavily involved in United's build-up play, playing in an advanced role in the first half and then switching to a deeper holding role after the break.

<img alt="Premier League" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d18eba49-377a-4a06-b4d0-0db46f885320" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202020-02-02T125348.422.jpg" /> 
[&nbsp;Manchester United's Fred, Diogo Dalot and Jesse Lingard react (Courtesy: Reuters) ]

"Bruno is a top player," said <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hard-night-ahead-for-manchester-united-solskjaer-271952">Solskjaer</a>. "It's the first game. First half everyone was getting the ball into feet and Bruno is one of those who, when he gets into feet, he wants players moving in front of him and we didn't (do that). He'll be a top addition." Fernandes had a good opportunity just before the break with the ball falling to him invitingly but his well-struck effort was straight at compatriot Rui Patricio in the Wolves goal.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fa-cup-solskjaer-needs-time-to-make-lasting-impact-at-manchester-united-guardiola-272687">FA cup: Solskjaer needs time to make lasting impact at Manchester United — Guardiola</a>

The midfielder tested the Wolves keeper with a long-range free-kick after the break and Juan Mata saw an effort flash just wide of the post. After Wolves striker Raul Jimenez tested David de Gea at the end of a swift counter-attack, Romain Saiss then missed a great chance, heading wide from inside the box. United could have snatched the points in stoppage time when Aaron Wan-Bissaka delivered a dangerous cross from the right but substitute Diogo Dalot's header was off target.

Wolves manager Nuno Espirito Santo was satisfied with his team's effort."It was a good performance at Old Trafford and a good game for us. United are a good team. "It was balanced and both teams had chances and wanted to win. I'm happy with the performance," he said. 
&nbsp;

New Manchester United signing Bruno Fernandes was unable to inspire a victory on his debut on Saturday as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side were held to a 0-0 draw at home against Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Premier League.

New Manchester United signing Bruno Fernandes was unable to inspire a victory on his debut on Saturday as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side were held to a 0-0 draw at home against Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Premier League. The result leaves United in sixth place, six points behind Chelsea who occupy the fourth Champions League spot, while Wolves are seventh, level on 35 points with United. Sheffield United are a point better off in fifth. United now have a two-week break before their crunch game against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Feb. 17. Portugal international Fernandes, who joined United on Thursday from Sporting in a move which reportedly cost an initial 55 million euros ($61 million), was thrown straight into the starting midfield. The 25-year-old was heavily involved in United's build-up play, playing in an advanced role in the first half and then switching to a deeper holding role after the break. [ Manchester United's Fred, Diogo Dalot and Jesse Lingard react (Courtesy: Reuters) ] "Bruno is a top player," said Solskjaer. "It's the first game. First half everyone was getting the ball into feet and Bruno is one of those who, when he gets into feet, he wants players moving in front of him and we didn't (do that). He'll be a top addition." Fernandes had a good opportunity just before the break with the ball falling to him invitingly but his well-struck effort was straight at compatriot Rui Patricio in the Wolves goal. Also Read: FA cup: Solskjaer needs time to make lasting impact at Manchester United — Guardiola The midfielder tested the Wolves keeper with a long-range free-kick after the break and Juan Mata saw an effort flash just wide of the post. After Wolves striker Raul Jimenez tested David de Gea at the end of a swift counter-attack, Romain Saiss then missed a great chance, heading wide from inside the box. United could have snatched the points in stoppage time when Aaron Wan-Bissaka delivered a dangerous cross from the right but substitute Diogo Dalot's header was off target. Wolves manager Nuno Espirito Santo was satisfied with his team's effort."It was a good performance at Old Trafford and a good game for us. United are a good team. "It was balanced and both teams had chances and wanted to win. I'm happy with the performance," he said.

Manchester United held by Wolves on Fernandes debut

Real Madrid twisted the knife into their wounded rivals Atletico Madrid as Karim Benzema fired them to a 1-0 home win in the city derby on Saturday which also underlined Real's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/la-liga-real-madrid-frustrated-by-athletic-and-fall-behind-barca-269641">La Liga</a> title credentials. Benzema's strike gave Real their first home <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/la-liga-sd-eibar-beat-atletico-madrid-for-first-time-in-league-history-275242">victory</a> over their neighbours in the league since 2012 and piled more pressure on Atleti coach Diego Simeone, who was subjected to taunts from the gleeful Santiago Bernabeu crowd.

The victory meant <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/real-madrid-keep-pace-with-barca-as-bale-suffers-hostile-reception-264159">Real </a>increased their lead over Barcelona at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/la-liga-casemiros-double-against-sevilla-takes-real-madrid-top-of-table-275245">top of the table</a> to six points, although the Catalans can reduce the margin to three if they beat Levante on Sunday. Atletico are fifth and trail their local rivals by 13 points, while their injury problems deepened when striker Alvaro Morata limped off early in the second half with a suspected muscle problem.

French forward Benzema had not scored in his previous four league outings but broke the deadlock in the 56th minute of a tight game by side-footing home a cross from Ferland Mendy after coach Zinedine Zidane had sprung a double substitution. Zidane had begun the match with a compact narrow formation containing five midfielders but after failing to break down Atletico he hauled off Toni Kroos and Isco at the start of the second half for natural wingers Lucas Vazquez and Vinicius Jr.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/real-beat-atletico-on-penalties-to-win-11th-spanish-super-cup-273840">Real Madrid defeat Atletico Madrid on penalties to lift 11th Spanish Super Cup</a>

<img alt="Benzema " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="08487b16-6076-4308-b672-3d24a772c1d8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202020-02-02T123741.230.jpg" /> 
[&nbsp;Madrid's Karim Benzema celebrates scoring their first goal (Courtesy: Reuters) ]

The change instantly gave Real more width and Brazilian teenager Vinicius helped burst open a stubborn Atletico with some patient play in midfield, taking out three defenders by releasing Mendy, who needed only one touch to pick out Benzema. "I wasn't happy with what I was seeing on the pitch so I made the chances to give us more wing play and more pressure in attack but it wasn't the players' fault, it was mine," Zidane told reporters.

"The substitutions changed the game but I don't like taking players off after the first half because it's harsh on the players but it's what I had to do. We were much better in the second half and I think we deserved the victory," he added. Atletico rarely looked like troubling a Real defence that has only conceded 13 goals in 22 league games this season, although they had a strong penalty appeal turned down when Casemiro sent Morata to the ground in the first half.

Morata's injury swelled Atletico's list of injured players to seven, less than three weeks before they are due to host holders Liverpool in the last 16 of the Champions League. The Argentine has transformed Atletico's fortunes during his tenure including four wins at the Bernabeu but on this occasion, he was subjected to derisory from the home crowd, who chanted "Simeone please stay" as the final whistle approached. 
&nbsp;

Real Madrid twisted the knife into their wounded rivals Atletico Madrid as Karim Benzema fired them to a 1-0 home win in the city derby on Saturday which also underlined Real's La Liga title credentials.

Real Madrid twisted the knife into their wounded rivals Atletico Madrid as Karim Benzema fired them to a 1-0 home win in the city derby on Saturday which also underlined Real's La Liga title credentials. Benzema's strike gave Real their first home victory over their neighbours in the league since 2012 and piled more pressure on Atleti coach Diego Simeone, who was subjected to taunts from the gleeful Santiago Bernabeu crowd. The victory meant Real increased their lead over Barcelona at the top of the table to six points, although the Catalans can reduce the margin to three if they beat Levante on Sunday. Atletico are fifth and trail their local rivals by 13 points, while their injury problems deepened when striker Alvaro Morata limped off early in the second half with a suspected muscle problem. French forward Benzema had not scored in his previous four league outings but broke the deadlock in the 56th minute of a tight game by side-footing home a cross from Ferland Mendy after coach Zinedine Zidane had sprung a double substitution. Zidane had begun the match with a compact narrow formation containing five midfielders but after failing to break down Atletico he hauled off Toni Kroos and Isco at the start of the second half for natural wingers Lucas Vazquez and Vinicius Jr. Also Read: Real Madrid defeat Atletico Madrid on penalties to lift 11th Spanish Super Cup [ Madrid's Karim Benzema celebrates scoring their first goal (Courtesy: Reuters) ] The change instantly gave Real more width and Brazilian teenager Vinicius helped burst open a stubborn Atletico with some patient play in midfield, taking out three defenders by releasing Mendy, who needed only one touch to pick out Benzema. "I wasn't happy with what I was seeing on the pitch so I made the chances to give us more wing play and more pressure in attack but it wasn't the players' fault, it was mine," Zidane told reporters. "The substitutions changed the game but I don't like taking players off after the first half because it's harsh on the players but it's what I had to do. We were much better in the second half and I think we deserved the victory," he added. Atletico rarely looked like troubling a Real defence that has only conceded 13 goals in 22 league games this season, although they had a strong penalty appeal turned down when Casemiro sent Morata to the ground in the first half. Morata's injury swelled Atletico's list of injured players to seven, less than three weeks before they are due to host holders Liverpool in the last 16 of the Champions League. The Argentine has transformed Atletico's fortunes during his tenure including four wins at the Bernabeu but on this occasion, he was subjected to derisory from the home crowd, who chanted "Simeone please stay" as the final whistle approached.

Real Madrid vs. Atletico Madrid; Karim Benzema scores home win

Former NBA legend Kobe Bryant and his thirteen-year-old daughter, Gianna's untimed death shook the whole world. He and his daughter along with seven other people were killed in a helicopter crash in Southern California on Sunday morning.&nbsp; The crash took place into a hillside in Calabasas, Califonia. The impact of the crash broke the chopper into pieces, debris created due to the crash stretched from about 500 to 600 feet.

&nbsp;Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-legend-kobe-bryant-and-his-daughter-gianna-among-9-killed-in-a-chopper-crash-in-california-276748" hreflang="en">NBA legend Kobe Bryant and his daughter, Gianna, among 9 killed in a chopper crash in California</a>

Kobe Bryant's widow, Vanessa Bryant is said to be 'numb' and 'heartbroken' after receiving this tragic news.&nbsp;

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/kobe-bryant-an-nba-champion-olympic-gold-medalist-and-a-basketball-giant-276818">Basketball champion Kobe Bryant: His life in pictures</a>

She made her first public statement through a heartfelt message in the first Instagram post since the crash.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B77K8XWDY7O/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">My girls and I want to thank the millions of people who’ve shown support and love during this horrific time. Thank you for all the prayers. We definitely need them. We are completely devastated by the sudden loss of my adoring husband, Kobe — the amazing father of our children; and my beautiful, sweet Gianna — a loving, thoughtful, and wonderful daughter, and amazing sister to Natalia, Bianka, and Capri. We are also devastated for the families who lost their loved ones on Sunday, and we share in their grief intimately. There aren’t enough words to describe our pain right now. I take comfort in knowing that Kobe and Gigi both knew that they were so deeply loved. We were so incredibly blessed to have them in our lives. I wish they were here with us forever. They were our beautiful blessings taken from us too soon. I’m not sure what our lives hold beyond today, and it’s impossible to imagine life without them. But we wake up each day, trying to keep pushing because Kobe, and our baby girl, Gigi, are shining on us to light the way. Our love for them is endless — and that’s to say, immeasurable. I just wish I could hug them, kiss them and bless them. Have them here with us, forever. Thank you for sharing your joy, your grief and your support with us. We ask that you grant us the respect and privacy we will need to navigate this new reality. To honor our Team Mamba family, the Mamba Sports Foundation has set up the MambaOnThree Fund to help support the other families affected by this tragedy. To donate, please go to MambaOnThree.org. To further Kobe and Gianna’s legacy in youth sports, please visit MambaSportsFoundation.org. Thank you so much for lifting us up in your prayers, and for loving Kobe, Gigi, Natalia, Bianka, Capri and me. #Mamba #Mambacita #GirlsDad #DaddysGirls #Family ❤️</a>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/vanessabryant/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Vanessa Bryant 🦋</a> (@vanessabryant) on <time datetime="2020-01-30T00:59:19+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Jan 29, 2020 at 4:59pm PST</time>
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She had made her Instagram page private after the crash but on Wednesday it was public again. She had a new profile picture on&nbsp;it and gained almost 2 million followers. In the new profile photo, Kobe Bryant is seen hugging her young daughter Gianna. The picture was taken on February 14, 2016, before Bryant's final NBA All-Star Game.&nbsp;

In a recent investigation, it turned out that Kobe's chopper was missing an essential warning system which could have helped to avoid the crash.&nbsp;

Kobe married Vanessa in the year 2001, he succeeded by his wife and three daughters.&nbsp;

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Former NBA legend Kobe Bryant and his thirteen-year-old daughter, Gianna's untimed death shook the whole world. He and his daughter along with seven other people were killed in a helicopter crash in Southern California on Sunday morning.

Former NBA legend Kobe Bryant and his thirteen-year-old daughter, Gianna's untimed death shook the whole world. He and his daughter along with seven other people were killed in a helicopter crash in Southern California on Sunday morning. The crash took place into a hillside in Calabasas, Califonia. The impact of the crash broke the chopper into pieces, debris created due to the crash stretched from about 500 to 600 feet. Also read: NBA legend Kobe Bryant and his daughter, Gianna, among 9 killed in a chopper crash in California Kobe Bryant's widow, Vanessa Bryant is said to be 'numb' and 'heartbroken' after receiving this tragic news. Also see: Basketball champion Kobe Bryant: His life in pictures She made her first public statement through a heartfelt message in the first Instagram post since the crash. View this post on Instagram My girls and I want to thank the millions of people who’ve shown support and love during this horrific time. Thank you for all the prayers. We definitely need them. We are completely devastated by the sudden loss of my adoring husband, Kobe — the amazing father of our children; and my beautiful, sweet Gianna — a loving, thoughtful, and wonderful daughter, and amazing sister to Natalia, Bianka, and Capri. We are also devastated for the families who lost their loved ones on Sunday, and we share in their grief intimately. There aren’t enough words to describe our pain right now. I take comfort in knowing that Kobe and Gigi both knew that they were so deeply loved. We were so incredibly blessed to have them in our lives. I wish they were here with us forever. They were our beautiful blessings taken from us too soon. I’m not sure what our lives hold beyond today, and it’s impossible to imagine life without them. But we wake up each day, trying to keep pushing because Kobe, and our baby girl, Gigi, are shining on us to light the way. Our love for them is endless — and that’s to say, immeasurable. I just wish I could hug them, kiss them and bless them. Have them here with us, forever. Thank you for sharing your joy, your grief and your support with us. We ask that you grant us the respect and privacy we will need to navigate this new reality. To honor our Team Mamba family, the Mamba Sports Foundation has set up the MambaOnThree Fund to help support the other families affected by this tragedy. To donate, please go to MambaOnThree.org. To further Kobe and Gianna’s legacy in youth sports, please visit MambaSportsFoundation.org. Thank you so much for lifting us up in your prayers, and for loving Kobe, Gigi, Natalia, Bianka, Capri and me. #Mamba #Mambacita #GirlsDad #DaddysGirls #Family ❤️ A post shared by Vanessa Bryant 🦋 (@vanessabryant) on Jan 29, 2020 at 4:59pm PST × She had made her Instagram page private after the crash but on Wednesday it was public again. She had a new profile picture on it and gained almost 2 million followers. In the new profile photo, Kobe Bryant is seen hugging her young daughter Gianna. The picture was taken on February 14, 2016, before Bryant's final NBA All-Star Game. In a recent investigation, it turned out that Kobe's chopper was missing an essential warning system which could have helped to avoid the crash. Kobe married Vanessa in the year 2001, he succeeded by his wife and three daughters.

Kobe Bryant's wife posts heart-felt message, thanks millions of fans for support

Serena Williams'&nbsp;dream for a record equalling 24th Grand Slam was shattered after a stunning defeat by China's Wang Qiang.&nbsp;

World No 27 beat seven-times Australian Open champion 6-4, 6-7 (2-7), 7-5 in the third round of the Australian Open at Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne.&nbsp;

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The moment of a LIFETIME! 
 
Qiang Wang puts on an absolute masterclass in the match of the tournament to shock Serena Williams 6-4 6-7(2) 7-5 and advance to a first career <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> round of 16.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AO2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AO2020</a> <a href="https://t.co/gnGkAMaU8X">pic.twitter.com/gnGkAMaU8X</a>
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1220565581692309504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Williams and Wang Qiang have just met&nbsp;once before in the US Open 2019 quarter-finals where Serena handed a crushing defeat to Wang by beating her 6-1, 6-0.

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C-O-M-P-O-S-U-R-E 
 
Wang erases a break point and makes magic!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AO2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AO2020</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> | 🎥: <a href="https://twitter.com/espn?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@espn</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/Channel9?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Channel9</a> <a href="https://t.co/zHrYY17L3I">pic.twitter.com/zHrYY17L3I</a>
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1220546160248655872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Last time Williams won any&nbsp;Grand Slam was the&nbsp;Australian Open in 2017, she was a favourite contender for the&nbsp;cup this year too.&nbsp;

Let's take look at the chronological events in Williams Grand Slam campaigns post 2017 win:

She entered the French Open in the year 2018, after giving birth to her baby. She was forced to pull out of fourth-round encounter against Maria Sharapova, following a pectoral injury.&nbsp;

In Wimbledon 2018, Williams was beaten by Angelique Kerber 6-3, 6-3 in the women's singles finals.&nbsp;

In US Open 2018 she was beaten 6-2, 6-4 by Japan's Naomi Osaka in the finals.&nbsp;

Australian Open 2019, &nbsp;she lost to Karolina Pliskova to crash out in the quarter-finals 6-4, 4-6, 7-5.

French Open 2019 similar upset in the third round 6-2, 7-5 by American Sofia Kenin,

Wimbledon 2019 she was thrashed 6-2, 6-2 in just 56 minutes in the final by Simona Halep.

In the US Open 2019, &nbsp;Serena was beaten by World No 15 Bianca Andreescu 6-3, 7-5 in the finals. &nbsp;

World No 8 was off to a bad start handing the first set to Wang Qiang, she fought hard in the second set and managed to secure a set win by edging past Wang Qiang.

Serena also won a 24-shot rally, after which she raised her arms in victory.&nbsp;

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Never count out SERENA! 
 
In a 24-shot rally, Williams rips a cross-court forehand winner to break Wang and keep her tournament hopes alive.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AO2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AO2020</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/MRAyMXMquA">pic.twitter.com/MRAyMXMquA</a>
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1220548394718048256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The final set was pretty tense because both players held their places, but Wang managed to convert the match point in her favour during&nbsp;the American's service.&nbsp;

Serena Williams' dream for a record equalling 24th Grand Slam was shattered after a stunning defeat by China's Wang Qiang. World No 27 beat seven-times Australian Open champion 6-4, 6-7 (2-7), 7-5 in the third round of the Australian Open at Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne.

Serena Williams' dream for a record equalling 24th Grand Slam was shattered after a stunning defeat by China's Wang Qiang. World No 27 beat seven-times Australian Open champion 6-4, 6-7 (2-7), 7-5 in the third round of the Australian Open at Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne. The moment of a LIFETIME! Qiang Wang puts on an absolute masterclass in the match of the tournament to shock Serena Williams 6-4 6-7(2) 7-5 and advance to a first career #AusOpen round of 16.#AO2020 pic.twitter.com/gnGkAMaU8X — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 24, 2020 × Williams and Wang Qiang have just met once before in the US Open 2019 quarter-finals where Serena handed a crushing defeat to Wang by beating her 6-1, 6-0. C-O-M-P-O-S-U-R-E Wang erases a break point and makes magic!#AO2020 | #AusOpen | 🎥: @espn | @Channel9 pic.twitter.com/zHrYY17L3I — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 24, 2020 × Last time Williams won any Grand Slam was the Australian Open in 2017, she was a favourite contender for the cup this year too. Let's take look at the chronological events in Williams Grand Slam campaigns post 2017 win: She entered the French Open in the year 2018, after giving birth to her baby. She was forced to pull out of fourth-round encounter against Maria Sharapova, following a pectoral injury. In Wimbledon 2018, Williams was beaten by Angelique Kerber 6-3, 6-3 in the women's singles finals. In US Open 2018 she was beaten 6-2, 6-4 by Japan's Naomi Osaka in the finals. Australian Open 2019, she lost to Karolina Pliskova to crash out in the quarter-finals 6-4, 4-6, 7-5. French Open 2019 similar upset in the third round 6-2, 7-5 by American Sofia Kenin, Wimbledon 2019 she was thrashed 6-2, 6-2 in just 56 minutes in the final by Simona Halep. In the US Open 2019, Serena was beaten by World No 15 Bianca Andreescu 6-3, 7-5 in the finals. World No 8 was off to a bad start handing the first set to Wang Qiang, she fought hard in the second set and managed to secure a set win by edging past Wang Qiang. Serena also won a 24-shot rally, after which she raised her arms in victory. Never count out SERENA! In a 24-shot rally, Williams rips a cross-court forehand winner to break Wang and keep her tournament hopes alive.#AO2020 | #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/MRAyMXMquA — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 24, 2020 × The final set was pretty tense because both players held their places, but Wang managed to convert the match point in her favour during the American's service.

Australian Open: Serena Williams crashes out in third round in a 'shocker'

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../caroline-wozniacki-storms-into-3rd-round-may- meet-maria-sharapova-in-next-round-190697">Caroline Wozniacki</a>'s glittering tennis career ended in tears at the&nbsp;Australian&nbsp;Open&nbsp;on Friday when she was dumped out by lower-ranked Ons Jabeur of Tunisia.

Also read-&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-serena-williams-crashes-out-in-third-round-after-a-shocker-276265">Australian Open: Serena Williams crashes out in third round in a 'shocker'</a>

The Danish former world number one, who announced in December that this would be her final tournament, lost 7-5, 3-6, 7-5 in the third round.

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The end of an era. 
 
Thank you for the memories <a href="https://twitter.com/CaroWozniacki?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CaroWozniacki</a>. You'll be so very missed💕<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AO2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AO2020</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/z37ZwjMR81">pic.twitter.com/z37ZwjMR81</a>
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1220556013180293120?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The unseeded 29-year-old brings the curtain down on a career that saw her win 30 WTA titles, with her sole Grand Slam triumph coming in 2018 at Melbourne Park.

"Only fitting that my last match was a three-setter, a grinder, and I finished my career with a forehand error. Those are the things I've been working on my whole career," joked Wozniacki, as she choked back tears.

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"I think it was only fitting that my last match would be a three-setter, a grinder and that I would finish my career with a forehand error." 
 
Ever the joker, <a href="https://twitter.com/CaroWozniacki?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CaroWozniacki</a> ❤️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AO2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AO2020</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/LhFs8Kxkyj">pic.twitter.com/LhFs8Kxkyj</a>
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1220558191882272769?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Guess this is just how it was meant to be," added the Dane, who began playing tennis aged seven.

Wozniacki, who made her professional debut in 2005, was given a rapturous reception by the Melbourne Arena crowd and was embraced by Jabeur.

"I've had unbelievable experiences on the court, amazing fans and support I've had my from family, especially my Dad, who has coached me all these years," said Wozniacki, who suffers from rheumatoid arthritis, which causes fatigue and joint pain.

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Anyone else out there with a little something in their eye?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AO2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AO2020</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/CaroWozniacki?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CaroWozniacki</a> <a href="https://t.co/LvFrRMPXnU">pic.twitter.com/LvFrRMPXnU</a>
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1220557459741388800?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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She has said that had nothing to do with her decision to leave tennis, wanting to start a family with husband and former National Basketball Association star David Lee.

The couple embraced on the court and she was held aloft triumphantly by her father Piotr.

"I usually don't cry. I have special memories that I will cherish, it's been a great ride," said Wozniacki, now ranked 36 in the world.

"But I am ready for the next chapter, ready for what's to come."

She finished 2010 and 2011 as world number one and ascended to the top ranking again in 2018, the same year she finally won her maiden Grand Slam.

The 78th-ranked Tunisian Jabeur plays Wang Qiang of China in the fourth round.

"Caroline has been such an inspiration for me and many players," said Jabeur.

Caroline Wozniacki's glittering tennis career ended in tears at the Australian Open on Friday when she was dumped out by lower-ranked Ons Jabeur of Tunisia. Also read- Australian Open: Serena Williams crashes out in third round in a 'shocker' The Danish former world number one, who announced in December that this would be her final tournament, lost 7-5, 3-6, 7-5 in the third round.

Caroline Wozniacki's glittering tennis career ended in tears at the Australian Open on Friday when she was dumped out by lower-ranked Ons Jabeur of Tunisia. Also read- Australian Open: Serena Williams crashes out in third round in a 'shocker' The Danish former world number one, who announced in December that this would be her final tournament, lost 7-5, 3-6, 7-5 in the third round. The end of an era. Thank you for the memories @CaroWozniacki. You'll be so very missed💕#AO2020 | #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/z37ZwjMR81 — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 24, 2020 × The unseeded 29-year-old brings the curtain down on a career that saw her win 30 WTA titles, with her sole Grand Slam triumph coming in 2018 at Melbourne Park. "Only fitting that my last match was a three-setter, a grinder, and I finished my career with a forehand error. Those are the things I've been working on my whole career," joked Wozniacki, as she choked back tears. "I think it was only fitting that my last match would be a three-setter, a grinder and that I would finish my career with a forehand error." Ever the joker, @CaroWozniacki ❤️#AO2020 | #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/LhFs8Kxkyj — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 24, 2020 × "Guess this is just how it was meant to be," added the Dane, who began playing tennis aged seven. Wozniacki, who made her professional debut in 2005, was given a rapturous reception by the Melbourne Arena crowd and was embraced by Jabeur. "I've had unbelievable experiences on the court, amazing fans and support I've had my from family, especially my Dad, who has coached me all these years," said Wozniacki, who suffers from rheumatoid arthritis, which causes fatigue and joint pain. Anyone else out there with a little something in their eye?#AO2020 | #AusOpen | @CaroWozniacki pic.twitter.com/LvFrRMPXnU — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 24, 2020 × She has said that had nothing to do with her decision to leave tennis, wanting to start a family with husband and former National Basketball Association star David Lee. The couple embraced on the court and she was held aloft triumphantly by her father Piotr. "I usually don't cry. I have special memories that I will cherish, it's been a great ride," said Wozniacki, now ranked 36 in the world. "But I am ready for the next chapter, ready for what's to come." She finished 2010 and 2011 as world number one and ascended to the top ranking again in 2018, the same year she finally won her maiden Grand Slam. The 78th-ranked Tunisian Jabeur plays Wang Qiang of China in the fourth round. "Caroline has been such an inspiration for me and many players," said Jabeur.

Wozniacki career ends in tears with defeat at Australian Open

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-manchester-united-up-to-fifth-with-2-0-win-at-burnley-270810">Manchester United</a> midfielder Paul Pogba is set to return for their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-west-ham-sack-pellegrini-after-leicester-defeat-270816">Premier League</a> visit to Arsenal on New Year's Day after sitting out Saturday's 2-0 win over Burnley as a precaution, manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has said.

The France international returned from a long layoff injury in United's 2-0 defeat by Watford on December&nbsp;22 and played 45 minutes in their 4-1 win over Newcastle United on Boxing Day.

Pogba felt pain in his ankle after the Newcastle game but Solskjaer said the 26-year-old would be ready for United's next match.

"He's been out for a long while and he didn't feel right," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/solskjaer-says-smiles-back-on-manchester-united-faces-ahead-of-derby-266672">Solskjaer</a> told reporters. "When you've been out for such a while it's always going to take time until you're 100 per cent.

"He wasn't ready (to face Burnley) because he's not really done too many games and he's had two in a few days and he just needed another day's recovery."

United midfielder Scott McTominay damaged knee ligaments in the win over Newcastle and Solskjaer said the 23-year-old could be out of action for about a month.

"I wouldn't expect him to be back within a few weeks," the Norwegian added. "I don't know if it's three or four weeks ... We've just got to find a way through it."

United's win over Burnley lifted them to fifth in the table, while Arsenal dropped to 12th after losing to Chelsea on Sunday.

Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba is set to return for their Premier League visit to Arsenal on New Year's Day after sitting out Saturday's 2-0 win over Burnley as a precaution, manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has said.

Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba is set to return for their Premier League visit to Arsenal on New Year's Day after sitting out Saturday's 2-0 win over Burnley as a precaution, manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has said. The France international returned from a long layoff injury in United's 2-0 defeat by Watford on December 22 and played 45 minutes in their 4-1 win over Newcastle United on Boxing Day. Pogba felt pain in his ankle after the Newcastle game but Solskjaer said the 26-year-old would be ready for United's next match. "He's been out for a long while and he didn't feel right," Solskjaer told reporters. "When you've been out for such a while it's always going to take time until you're 100 per cent. "He wasn't ready (to face Burnley) because he's not really done too many games and he's had two in a few days and he just needed another day's recovery." United midfielder Scott McTominay damaged knee ligaments in the win over Newcastle and Solskjaer said the 23-year-old could be out of action for about a month. "I wouldn't expect him to be back within a few weeks," the Norwegian added. "I don't know if it's three or four weeks ... We've just got to find a way through it." United's win over Burnley lifted them to fifth in the table, while Arsenal dropped to 12th after losing to Chelsea on Sunday.

Pogba set to return for Manchester United's match against Arsenal

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/with-eight-months-from-tokyo-2020-venue-preparations-enter-final-stretch-263688">Tokyo 2020</a> organisers will take "emergency countermeasures" after asbestos was found at the water polo venue for next year's Games after initially opting against treating it when it was discovered two years ago, Asahi newspaper reported on Monday.

Asbestos, which was once widely used in fireproofing and insulation, has been linked to several health hazards including mesothelioma and other types of cancer.

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government and Tokyo 2020 were not immediately reachable for comment. Much of Japan is closed for New Year holidays.

The Asahi report said the Tokyo government found the asbestos in fireproof material sprayed on part of the structure supporting the Tokyo Tatsumi International Swimming Center's roof.

While Japanese construction industry regulations state asbestos should be removed or covered up, the Tokyo government deemed the amount not to be large in scale, in a stable condition and not accessible so decided to leave it, Asahi said.

Organisers had since decided to take "emergency countermeasures", Asahi said without providing further details.

The report is the latest headache for Tokyo 2020 organisers, who have faced concerns over elevated levels of bacteria in the water in Tokyo bay and how athletes will cope with sweltering summer heat, which has led the marathon event to be moved to the far northern city of Sapporo.

Tokyo 2020 organisers will take "emergency countermeasures" after asbestos was found at the water polo venue for next year's Games after initially opting against treating it when it was discovered two years ago, Asahi newspaper reported on Monday.

Tokyo 2020 organisers will take "emergency countermeasures" after asbestos was found at the water polo venue for next year's Games after initially opting against treating it when it was discovered two years ago, Asahi newspaper reported on Monday. Asbestos, which was once widely used in fireproofing and insulation, has been linked to several health hazards including mesothelioma and other types of cancer. The Tokyo Metropolitan Government and Tokyo 2020 were not immediately reachable for comment. Much of Japan is closed for New Year holidays. The Asahi report said the Tokyo government found the asbestos in fireproof material sprayed on part of the structure supporting the Tokyo Tatsumi International Swimming Center's roof. While Japanese construction industry regulations state asbestos should be removed or covered up, the Tokyo government deemed the amount not to be large in scale, in a stable condition and not accessible so decided to leave it, Asahi said. Organisers had since decided to take "emergency countermeasures", Asahi said without providing further details. The report is the latest headache for Tokyo 2020 organisers, who have faced concerns over elevated levels of bacteria in the water in Tokyo bay and how athletes will cope with sweltering summer heat, which has led the marathon event to be moved to the far northern city of Sapporo.

Tokyo 2020 to take measures after asbestos found at venue: Sources

New Zealand were facing a massive run chase to save the second Test and the series after they were <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-new-zealand-collapse-to-148-all-out-under-australian-pace-barrage-270701">dismissed for 148</a> in Melbourne on Saturday, with Australia batting again to rub salt in the wounds and extend their lead.

At the close on day three, the home team were 137 for four,&nbsp;building on their first innings 467 to be 456&nbsp;runs in front.

First innings century-maker Travis Head was not out 12 and Matthew Wade was on 15, with skipper Tim Paine so far resisting the temptation to declare.

New Zealand began the day already in trouble on 44 for two, having lost batting kingpin Kane Williamson and makeshift opener Tom Blundell in a fiery bowling spell late Friday.

They didn't survive long with a world-class pace barrage from Pat Cummins, James Pattinson and Mitchell Starc destroying their middle order.

Paine could have enforced the follow-on, but opted to bat again and Australia raced to 62 without loss before Neil Wagner tempted David Warner into a drive on 38 and he was caught by Blundell.&nbsp;

Form-player Marnus Labuschagne was run out for 19 and spinner Mitchell Santner snared opener Joe Burns for 35, caught behind off a bottom edge.

When Steve Smith departed for seven, Wagner's 200th Test wicket, the Black Caps were on a roll. But Head and Wade steered them to the close, leaving New Zealand with a monumental task.

They need a result to keep the three-Test series alive after being crushed by 296 runs in the opening day-night clash in Perth.

Opener Tom Latham was the only one to offer resistance in their first innings demolition, surviving 144 balls in a dogged 50 before he too succumbed to the Australian fast-bowling machine.

The world's top bowler Cummins was the chief destroyer, ending with 5-28.

They resumed with Latham on nine with Ross Taylor on two, but had a disastrous morning and went to lunch at 102 for six, before Australia finished the job.

The experienced Taylor was removed in just the third over and Henry Nicholls followed for a golden duck as they crumbled under consistent pace and accuracy.

Cummins was virtually unplayable, with Taylor getting an edge to a searing delivery on four. Labuschagne juggled the slip catch and Burns grabbed the ball.

A stunned Nicholls was then out lbw after unsuccessfully reviewing the decision, before BJ Watling nervously managed to defend Cummins' hat-trick ball.

At the other end, Pattinson, playing for the injured Josh Hazlewood, was equally menacing and Latham should have gone the next over, but a diving Smith put down a slip catch he would normally hold.

Pattinson soon got his reward with a rising ball catching Watling's glove and Burns taking an easy catch to leave them at 58 for five.

New Zealand staged a mini recovery before Starc got in on the action, having Colin de Grandhomme caught in the gully by Warner for 11.

Santner was lucky to survive a review decision before scoring after he was caught off a Starc bouncer.

Australia were convinced he was out and replays showed it skimmed off the wristband of his glove, but third umpire Aleem Dar deemed it inconclusive and Santner remained.

Latham brought up his 16th Test half-century before he got a thick edge to wicketkeeper Paine off Cummins, and once he was gone Australia wrapped up the tail.

New Zealand were facing a massive run chase to save the second Test and the series after they were dismissed for 148 in Melbourne on Saturday, with Australia batting again to rub salt in the wounds and extend their lead.

New Zealand were facing a massive run chase to save the second Test and the series after they were dismissed for 148 in Melbourne on Saturday, with Australia batting again to rub salt in the wounds and extend their lead. At the close on day three, the home team were 137 for four, building on their first innings 467 to be 456 runs in front. First innings century-maker Travis Head was not out 12 and Matthew Wade was on 15, with skipper Tim Paine so far resisting the temptation to declare. New Zealand began the day already in trouble on 44 for two, having lost batting kingpin Kane Williamson and makeshift opener Tom Blundell in a fiery bowling spell late Friday. They didn't survive long with a world-class pace barrage from Pat Cummins, James Pattinson and Mitchell Starc destroying their middle order. Paine could have enforced the follow-on, but opted to bat again and Australia raced to 62 without loss before Neil Wagner tempted David Warner into a drive on 38 and he was caught by Blundell. Form-player Marnus Labuschagne was run out for 19 and spinner Mitchell Santner snared opener Joe Burns for 35, caught behind off a bottom edge. When Steve Smith departed for seven, Wagner's 200th Test wicket, the Black Caps were on a roll. But Head and Wade steered them to the close, leaving New Zealand with a monumental task. They need a result to keep the three-Test series alive after being crushed by 296 runs in the opening day-night clash in Perth. Opener Tom Latham was the only one to offer resistance in their first innings demolition, surviving 144 balls in a dogged 50 before he too succumbed to the Australian fast-bowling machine. The world's top bowler Cummins was the chief destroyer, ending with 5-28. They resumed with Latham on nine with Ross Taylor on two, but had a disastrous morning and went to lunch at 102 for six, before Australia finished the job. The experienced Taylor was removed in just the third over and Henry Nicholls followed for a golden duck as they crumbled under consistent pace and accuracy. Cummins was virtually unplayable, with Taylor getting an edge to a searing delivery on four. Labuschagne juggled the slip catch and Burns grabbed the ball. A stunned Nicholls was then out lbw after unsuccessfully reviewing the decision, before BJ Watling nervously managed to defend Cummins' hat-trick ball. At the other end, Pattinson, playing for the injured Josh Hazlewood, was equally menacing and Latham should have gone the next over, but a diving Smith put down a slip catch he would normally hold. Pattinson soon got his reward with a rising ball catching Watling's glove and Burns taking an easy catch to leave them at 58 for five. New Zealand staged a mini recovery before Starc got in on the action, having Colin de Grandhomme caught in the gully by Warner for 11. Santner was lucky to survive a review decision before scoring after he was caught off a Starc bouncer. Australia were convinced he was out and replays showed it skimmed off the wristband of his glove, but third umpire Aleem Dar deemed it inconclusive and Santner remained. Latham brought up his 16th Test half-century before he got a thick edge to wicketkeeper Paine off Cummins, and once he was gone Australia wrapped up the tail.

Cricket: Stunned New Zealand fight to save second Australia Test

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-ancelotti-gets-winning-start-as-everton-beat-burnley-270517">Carlo Ancelotti's flying start</a> as Everton manager continued as his side won 2-1 at Newcastle United and Watford are also thriving under new boss Nigel Pearson after crushing relegation rivals <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aston-villa-beat-liverpools-kids-to-reach-league-cup-semis-268863">Aston Villa</a> 3-0 on Saturday.

Everton won for the second time in two games with Italian Ancelotti at the helm as Dominic Calvert-Lewin's double sealed the points at St James' Park to ease Everton into mid-table.

Fabian Schar had levelled for Newcastle but Calvert-Lewin's fifth league goal in his last five games gave Everton the win.

Watford remain in the drop zone but Pearson is working his magic having taken over from Quique Sanchez Flores this month to become the club's third manager this season.

Pearson's side played for more than half an hour with 10 men after defender Adrian Mariappa was sent off but they already led through Troy Deeney's opener in the 42nd minute.

Watford scored again when Deeney slotted home a penalty after he was fouled by Douglas Luiz.

Ismaila Sarr added a third as Watford recorded their second successive victory under Pearson to move to within three points of 17th-placed West Ham United, who play later on Saturday.

Villa beat Norwich City on Boxing Day but defeat by Watford left them third from bottom.

Bournemouth are also too close to the relegation zone for comfort after losing 2-0 to Brighton &amp; Hove Albion in the south coast derby that kicked off the day's programme.

Iranian winger Alireza Jahanbakhsh opened the scoring with his first goal for Brighton and Aaron Mooy made the points secure in the 79th minute as Brighton claimed a vital victory in their bid to stay away from trouble.

Danny Ings earned Southampton a point in a 1-1 draw at home to Crystal Palace who had taken the lead through James Tomkins.

Palace also had a goal ruled in the first half through VAR, Max Meyer's celebrations being cut short for a marginal offside call on Wilfried Zaha.

Tottenham Hotspur can go fourth with victory at Norwich City in a later kickoff while Leicester City will try to close the gap on leaders <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-relentless-liverpool-have-no-time-for-reflection-270699">Liverpool</a> to 10 points by winning at West Ham.

Burnley host Manchester United in the day's final action.

Carlo Ancelotti's flying start as Everton manager continued as his side won 2-1 at Newcastle United and Watford are also thriving under new boss Nigel Pearson after crushing relegation rivals Aston Villa 3-0 on Saturday.

Carlo Ancelotti's flying start as Everton manager continued as his side won 2-1 at Newcastle United and Watford are also thriving under new boss Nigel Pearson after crushing relegation rivals Aston Villa 3-0 on Saturday. Everton won for the second time in two games with Italian Ancelotti at the helm as Dominic Calvert-Lewin's double sealed the points at St James' Park to ease Everton into mid-table. Fabian Schar had levelled for Newcastle but Calvert-Lewin's fifth league goal in his last five games gave Everton the win. Watford remain in the drop zone but Pearson is working his magic having taken over from Quique Sanchez Flores this month to become the club's third manager this season. Pearson's side played for more than half an hour with 10 men after defender Adrian Mariappa was sent off but they already led through Troy Deeney's opener in the 42nd minute. Watford scored again when Deeney slotted home a penalty after he was fouled by Douglas Luiz. Ismaila Sarr added a third as Watford recorded their second successive victory under Pearson to move to within three points of 17th-placed West Ham United, who play later on Saturday. Villa beat Norwich City on Boxing Day but defeat by Watford left them third from bottom. Bournemouth are also too close to the relegation zone for comfort after losing 2-0 to Brighton & Hove Albion in the south coast derby that kicked off the day's programme. Iranian winger Alireza Jahanbakhsh opened the scoring with his first goal for Brighton and Aaron Mooy made the points secure in the 79th minute as Brighton claimed a vital victory in their bid to stay away from trouble. Danny Ings earned Southampton a point in a 1-1 draw at home to Crystal Palace who had taken the lead through James Tomkins. Palace also had a goal ruled in the first half through VAR, Max Meyer's celebrations being cut short for a marginal offside call on Wilfried Zaha. Tottenham Hotspur can go fourth with victory at Norwich City in a later kickoff while Leicester City will try to close the gap on leaders Liverpool to 10 points by winning at West Ham. Burnley host Manchester United in the day's final action.

Premier League: Ancelotti's Everton win again, Pearson works Watford magic

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-martial-scores-twice-as-manchester-united-crush-newcastle-270486">Manchester United</a> climbed to fifth place in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-improving-saints-stun-chelsea-with-2-0-win-at-stamford-bridge-270505">Premier League</a> after goals from Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford gave them a 2-0 win at Burnley on Saturday which leaves them a point outside the Champions League spots.

For all the question marks over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/solskjaer-says-smiles-back-on-manchester-united-faces-ahead-of-derby-266672">Ole Gunnar Solskjaer</a> and his side, United head into the New Year battling for a top-four place thanks in part to rivals' inconsistency but also due to the emergence of Martial and Rashford as real attacking threats.

The win also ended a run of 14 matches without a clean sheet for United and was their first away since February, although Burnley's shot-shy attack certainly made that task easier.

United's midfield was weakened by the absence of midfielder Paul Pogba, still in recovery phase and rested after two recent substitute appearances, and Scott McTominay who Solskjaer says faces up to four weeks out with a knee injury.

The Norwegian coach was forced to hand a rare start to Nemanja Matic and, despite the absentees, United had little trouble gaining the upper hand against a cautious Burnley.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-rashford-can-be-as-good-as-cristiano-ronaldo-says-solskjaer-267421">Rashford</a> forced goalkeeper Nick Pope into action with a long-range free-kick and then hit the post at the end of a swift break while Martial had a shot cleared off the line by Phil Bardsley in the 33rd minute.

The French forward got the breakthrough a minute before halftime with a simple finish after Andreas Pereira robbed defender Charlie Taylor and slipped the ball across to Martial.

Sean Dyche's Burnley side struggled to create any openings but were more positive after the break and David de Gea had to pull off a fine save in the 68th minute to keep out a low drive from Bardsley.

But after a spell of late pressure from the hosts, United wrapped up the win in stoppage time with Dan James breaking and finding Rashford, who rounded Pope and slotted home.

United end the year with back-to-back wins, following a 4-1 victory over Newcastle United on Boxing Day and the concerns raised by Solskjaer after the recent loss at Watford seem to have had the desired impact.

"We want to get (in the top four) and we’re not far away. We did (challenge) towards the end of last season as well, we were close to the top four, but then we dropped off," he said.

“Now they’ve responded to the defeat against Watford, I put a challenge to them and they’ve put my words to shame so I’m very happy with them”.

Rashford is developing an impressive understanding with Martial and took time to praise the Frenchman, who scored twice in the win over Newcastle.

"He was brilliant again today. For a forward, there's nothing better than scoring goals. Hopefully, it keeps his confidence high and this can continue until the end of the season," he said.

Manchester United climbed to fifth place in the Premier League after goals from Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford gave them a 2-0 win at Burnley on Saturday which leaves them a point outside the Champions League spots.

Manchester United climbed to fifth place in the Premier League after goals from Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford gave them a 2-0 win at Burnley on Saturday which leaves them a point outside the Champions League spots. For all the question marks over Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and his side, United head into the New Year battling for a top-four place thanks in part to rivals' inconsistency but also due to the emergence of Martial and Rashford as real attacking threats. The win also ended a run of 14 matches without a clean sheet for United and was their first away since February, although Burnley's shot-shy attack certainly made that task easier. United's midfield was weakened by the absence of midfielder Paul Pogba, still in recovery phase and rested after two recent substitute appearances, and Scott McTominay who Solskjaer says faces up to four weeks out with a knee injury. The Norwegian coach was forced to hand a rare start to Nemanja Matic and, despite the absentees, United had little trouble gaining the upper hand against a cautious Burnley. Rashford forced goalkeeper Nick Pope into action with a long-range free-kick and then hit the post at the end of a swift break while Martial had a shot cleared off the line by Phil Bardsley in the 33rd minute. The French forward got the breakthrough a minute before halftime with a simple finish after Andreas Pereira robbed defender Charlie Taylor and slipped the ball across to Martial. Sean Dyche's Burnley side struggled to create any openings but were more positive after the break and David de Gea had to pull off a fine save in the 68th minute to keep out a low drive from Bardsley. But after a spell of late pressure from the hosts, United wrapped up the win in stoppage time with Dan James breaking and finding Rashford, who rounded Pope and slotted home. United end the year with back-to-back wins, following a 4-1 victory over Newcastle United on Boxing Day and the concerns raised by Solskjaer after the recent loss at Watford seem to have had the desired impact. "We want to get (in the top four) and we’re not far away. We did (challenge) towards the end of last season as well, we were close to the top four, but then we dropped off," he said. “Now they’ve responded to the defeat against Watford, I put a challenge to them and they’ve put my words to shame so I’m very happy with them”. Rashford is developing an impressive understanding with Martial and took time to praise the Frenchman, who scored twice in the win over Newcastle. "He was brilliant again today. For a forward, there's nothing better than scoring goals. Hopefully, it keeps his confidence high and this can continue until the end of the season," he said.

Premier League: Manchester United up to fifth with 2-0 win at Burnley

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nadal-murray-honoured-at-atp-awards-269400">Andy Murray</a> has withdrawn from next month's Australian Open because of a pelvic injury, the three-time Grand Slam champion's management team announced on Saturday.

The former world number one, who has been making an inspirational comeback after hip resurfacing surgery, has decided not to travel to Melbourne after the injury he sustained at the end of the season failed to improve as he had hoped.

Murray, who has been able to train on court this week, will miss the January&nbsp;20-February&nbsp;2 Grand Slam where he has been a five-time losing finalist and will also not play for Britain in the inaugural <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/worlds-top-10-commit-to-new-atp-cup-in-australia-249594">ATP Cup</a> in Australia, starting on Jan 3.

"Unfortunately, I've had a setback and as a precaution need to work through that before competing," the Scot told the BBC.

"I've worked so hard to get myself into a situation where I can play at the top level and I'm gutted I'm not going to be able to play."

His management team said in an email: "It was always going to be a tight turnaround, but the team took the decision not to rush back, so he'll continue hitting on court and building up fitness in January."

It was at last year's Australian Open that Murray was left in tears at a news conference where he told reporters that he was in such pain from a chronic hip injury that it might be his last tournament.

Yet, amazingly, the 32-year-old had looked on course to play in his first Grand Slam singles event since Melbourne after his recovery from major hip surgery 11 months ago had seen him climb back to No. 125 in the world.

After returning to competitive singles play in August, he even won the European Open in Antwerp, beating his old rival Stan Wawrinka in the final to secure his first triumph for more than two years.

Yet Murray has not played since Britain's opening tie at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/andy-murray-leads-britain-to-opening-davis-cup-win-spain-reach-last-eight-263586">Davis Cup finals</a> in Madrid last month when the pelvic bruising flared up.

Subsequently, he did not travel to Miami for his usual training stint, deciding instead to stay at home to train.

The Scot will now not play until February at the earliest, with his first tournament scheduled to be the Open Sud de France in Montpellier.

Andy Murray has withdrawn from next month's Australian Open because of a pelvic injury, the three-time Grand Slam champion's management team announced on Saturday.

Andy Murray has withdrawn from next month's Australian Open because of a pelvic injury, the three-time Grand Slam champion's management team announced on Saturday. The former world number one, who has been making an inspirational comeback after hip resurfacing surgery, has decided not to travel to Melbourne after the injury he sustained at the end of the season failed to improve as he had hoped. Murray, who has been able to train on court this week, will miss the January 20-February 2 Grand Slam where he has been a five-time losing finalist and will also not play for Britain in the inaugural ATP Cup in Australia, starting on Jan 3. "Unfortunately, I've had a setback and as a precaution need to work through that before competing," the Scot told the BBC. "I've worked so hard to get myself into a situation where I can play at the top level and I'm gutted I'm not going to be able to play." His management team said in an email: "It was always going to be a tight turnaround, but the team took the decision not to rush back, so he'll continue hitting on court and building up fitness in January." It was at last year's Australian Open that Murray was left in tears at a news conference where he told reporters that he was in such pain from a chronic hip injury that it might be his last tournament. Yet, amazingly, the 32-year-old had looked on course to play in his first Grand Slam singles event since Melbourne after his recovery from major hip surgery 11 months ago had seen him climb back to No. 125 in the world. After returning to competitive singles play in August, he even won the European Open in Antwerp, beating his old rival Stan Wawrinka in the final to secure his first triumph for more than two years. Yet Murray has not played since Britain's opening tie at the Davis Cup finals in Madrid last month when the pelvic bruising flared up. Subsequently, he did not travel to Miami for his usual training stint, deciding instead to stay at home to train. The Scot will now not play until February at the earliest, with his first tournament scheduled to be the Open Sud de France in Montpellier.

Andy Murray pulls out of Australian Open with injury

Defending champion PV Sindhu sailed into the quarterfinals but newly-crowned National champions Saina Nehwal and H S Prannoy crashed out of the China Open Super Series Premier, in Fuzhou on Thursday.

World No 2 Sindhu emerged as the lone Indian survivor at the event after she made quick work of China&#39;s Han Yue 21-15 21-13, an opponent ranked at 104 in BWF ranking, in a lop- sided 40-minute women&#39;s singles match.

Olympic silver medallist Sindhu will clash with another Chinese qualifier Gao Fangjie on Friday.

It turned out to be a dismal day for Saina and Prannoy, who had clinched the National championship titles at Nagpur earlier this month.

While Saina lost 18-21 11-21 against her Japanese nemesis and fifth seed Akane Yamaguchi in the women&#39;s singles second round, world no. 11 Prannoy was stunned by 53rd ranked Cheuk Yiu Lee of Hong Kong 21-19 21-17 in the men&#39;s singles event.

For Saina, the match against Yamaguchi was always expected to be a tricky one considering her inferior head-to- head record against the Japanese.

Before the start of today&#39;s match, Saina trailed Yamaguchi one to three in head-to-head record with their three previous results going in the Japanese favour and the trend continued.

Saina, thus, suffered her fourth defeat - three of them in last one month - against Yamaguchi this year.

The London Olympic bronze-medallist, who won the title here in 2014, got off to a good start, taking a slender 11-9 lead but Yamaguchi fought back to pocket the first game 21-18.

Down by a game, Saina&#39;s game started to deteriorate. She lacked momentum in the second game and never looked in the mental frame to make a comeback, even as Yamaguchi comfortably took control of the proceedings.

The Japanese never looked in trouble after taking the first game and did not fall behind for a single moment in the second as she sealed the match with consummate ease in just 37 minutes.

Later in the day, world no 11 Prannoy went down fighting to less-fancied Lee in a second round clash that lasted 42 minutes.

The encounter started with both Prannoy and Lee exchanging quick early points before the Hong Kong shuttler raced to a two-point lead.

Prannoy tried to stage a comeback but Lee took an 11-9 lead at the interval.

After the break, Prannoy tried hard to shift the momentum but never really managed to achieve that as Lee took the first game 21-19.

Prannoy played his heart out and took a slender one-point lead (11-10) at the break in the second game.

But after the break, exhaustion seemed to have caught up Prannoy as the Indian struggled, enabling Lee to make a comeback and finally wrap up the contest 21-17.

World No 2 Sindhu emerged as the lone Indian survivor at the event after she made quick work of China's Han Yue 21-15 21-13, an opponent ranked at 104 in BWF ranking, in a lop- sided 40-minute women's singles match.

Defending champion PV Sindhu sailed into the quarterfinals but newly-crowned National champions Saina Nehwal and H S Prannoy crashed out of the China Open Super Series Premier, in Fuzhou on Thursday. World No 2 Sindhu emerged as the lone Indian survivor at the event after she made quick work of China's Han Yue 21-15 21-13, an opponent ranked at 104 in BWF ranking, in a lop- sided 40-minute women's singles match. Olympic silver medallist Sindhu will clash with another Chinese qualifier Gao Fangjie on Friday. It turned out to be a dismal day for Saina and Prannoy, who had clinched the National championship titles at Nagpur earlier this month. While Saina lost 18-21 11-21 against her Japanese nemesis and fifth seed Akane Yamaguchi in the women's singles second round, world no. 11 Prannoy was stunned by 53rd ranked Cheuk Yiu Lee of Hong Kong 21-19 21-17 in the men's singles event. For Saina, the match against Yamaguchi was always expected to be a tricky one considering her inferior head-to- head record against the Japanese. Before the start of today's match, Saina trailed Yamaguchi one to three in head-to-head record with their three previous results going in the Japanese favour and the trend continued. Saina, thus, suffered her fourth defeat - three of them in last one month - against Yamaguchi this year. The London Olympic bronze-medallist, who won the title here in 2014, got off to a good start, taking a slender 11-9 lead but Yamaguchi fought back to pocket the first game 21-18. Down by a game, Saina's game started to deteriorate. She lacked momentum in the second game and never looked in the mental frame to make a comeback, even as Yamaguchi comfortably took control of the proceedings. The Japanese never looked in trouble after taking the first game and did not fall behind for a single moment in the second as she sealed the match with consummate ease in just 37 minutes. Later in the day, world no 11 Prannoy went down fighting to less-fancied Lee in a second round clash that lasted 42 minutes. The encounter started with both Prannoy and Lee exchanging quick early points before the Hong Kong shuttler raced to a two-point lead. Prannoy tried to stage a comeback but Lee took an 11-9 lead at the interval. After the break, Prannoy tried hard to shift the momentum but never really managed to achieve that as Lee took the first game 21-19. Prannoy played his heart out and took a slender one-point lead (11-10) at the break in the second game. But after the break, exhaustion seemed to have caught up Prannoy as the Indian struggled, enabling Lee to make a comeback and finally wrap up the contest 21-17.

China Open: PV Sindhu enter quarters; Saina, Prannoy crash out

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