FIFA to Tackle Pay-Cut Complaints O’Keefe

SPORT SPORTS | 02 SPORT | 03 RooneyRo says Coach Arthur handlingh of says Sri Lanka pay row T20 team needs 'a disgrace' fine-tuning

MONDAY 6 APRIL 2020

Steve FIFA to tackle pay-cut complaints O’Keefe

REUTERS – MANCHESTER “we cannot pre-empt that decision”. FIFA is getting ready to deal with The issue of pay The coronavirus working complaints and appeals over cuts for players group is composed of represent- wage cuts for players, producing atives from across the game guidelines for clubs and football has exploded as a including the FIFA adminis- bodies looking to cut costs major controversy in tration, confederations, national during the stoppage caused by England while in other federations, the European Club the coronavirus pandemic, an Association (ECA), players union internal document seen by countries, such as FIFPRO and the World Leagues Reuters showed. Germany and Spain, Forum. The issue of pay cuts for players have accepted The group also offered an players has exploded as a major alternative approach in which O’Keefe quits controversy in England while in temporary reductions “all agreements between clubs other countries, such as in earnings. and employees should be ‘sus- first class Germany and Spain, players pended’ during any suspension have accepted temporary reduc- of competitions provided proper cricket after tions in earnings. insurance coverage is main- With football halted across reflect national law and specific states that where clubs and amendment, FIFA writes in the tained, and adequate alternative NSW snub the globe, however, FIFA is agreements in each country but employees cannot reach document. income support arrangements aware that it may well have to says it is keen to avoid large dis- agreement and where “national FIFA will also take into can be found for employees REUTERS – SYDNEY deal with a series of different crepancies between similar law does not address the situ- account whether the decision during the period in question.” agreements and possible com- leagues and clubs. It also urges ation or collective agreements applies to the entire squad or The group agreed that Australia’s Steve O’Keefe, plaints, and its guidelines urge clubs, leagues and players to are not applicable”, unilateral only specific employees, and transfer windows should be whose 12 wickets for 70 runs any cuts to be reach “appropriate collective decisions to change contracts whether the club attempted in adjusted to reflect the changed against India in a 2017 Test “proportionate”. agreements”. “will only be recognised when good faith to reach a mutual dates of seasons, with priority remains the best figures by a FIFA’s Coronavirus working The guiding principles they are otherwise deemed rea- agreement with its employees. given to teams finishing the visiting spinner, quit first class group met last week and agreed behind such deals should be to sonable” by FIFA’s Dispute Res- The FIFA document sum- current season with their cricket yesterday after New on a wide range of issues, sum- “guarantee some form of salary olutions Chamber or Players marising the working group’s existing squad. South Wales opted not to marised in the document, payment to players and Status Committee. views will be submitted to the FIFA has also ruled that retain him. including that player contracts coaches, avoid litigation, protect A “reasonable” contractual Bureau of the FIFA Council for planned new restrictions on loan O’Keefe was the leading due to run out in June should be contractual stability, and ensure change will take into account approval. deals will not come into effect wicket-taker among spinners extended to the end of any clubs do not go bankrupt, while the economic situation of a club, A FIFA spokesman said it until the end of the current in the recent Sheffield Shield resumed season. considering the financial impact the proportionality of any salary was not in a position to period of uncertainty sur- season, which triggered spec- The internal paper notes that of COVID-19 on clubs”. amendment and the net income comment as a proposal was rounding the game due to the ulation about a possible Test such decisions will inevitably Crucially, the document of the employee after that being made to the Council, and pandemic. recall for the 35-year-old. “I was disappointed when I was told that I wasn’t getting a contract but I respect and accept the Ronaldo on course decision, so I have decided to retire from first class cricket,” the left-arm spinner to $1bn mark in said in a statement. O’Keefe said it had been a career earnings “privilege” to play for his country and to captain his state. He would miss the IANS – LISBON The earnings he camaraderie the most, he receives from his added. Cristiano Ronaldo is en sponsorship deals “When I think about my route to becoming first and his CR7 clothing time playing cricket, that’s football player and third line could help take what I’ll miss most,” added sportsman overall to cross O’Keefe, who will continue to $1bn in career earnings. his earnings this year play for Sydney Sixers in the This is despite the fact that close to the $100m A general view of the Yankee Stadium during the opening game of the MLB American League baseball T20 Big Bash League. Ronaldo has reportedly mark again. This season between the New York Yankees and the Boston Red Sox in New York in this April 1, 2013 ﬁle photo. One of the 13 spinners Aus- agreed to a wage cut of would help take him tralia have employed to fill the nearly €4m with his club past the $1bn in total void left by Shane Warne’s Juventus so as to fight the earnings over an 2007 exit, O’Keefe played nine coronavirus pandemic. President Trump wants fans Tests between 2014-17, 18-year career. According to Forbes, claiming 35 wickets. the cut hardly puts a dent on the Portuguese cap- back in the arenas soon tain’s annual earnings and Thanks to his he had earned a staggering sky-high pay-packet Italian union PHILADELPHIA $109m last year. and endorsement AP – virus. Other leagues quickly fol- urges pay A further 30 percent deals, Ronaldo is lowed, and hundreds of games wage cut is on the cards President Donald Trump met by have already been lost. The with the Serie A frozen due still expected to join phone with many US pro sports NCAA men’s and women’s bas- deal for lower to the pandemic but Tiger Woods and leaders yesterday to discuss how I think it’s... whenever ketball tournaments were can- Ronaldo could still earn an Floyd Mayweather that industry has been affected we’re ready. As soon as celed along with virtually every league players estimated $46m annual Jr in breaching the by the global coronavirus we can, obviously. And the other college athletic event for paycheck. pandemic, saying he was looking the remainder of the academic AFP – MILAN milestone ﬁgure in fans want to be back, too. The earnings he 2019-20. forward to the resumption of year; major events like the receives from his spon- competitions “as soon as we They want to see basketball Masters Tournament, the Ken- The head of the Italian foot- sorship deals and his CR7 can.” and baseball and football tucky Derby and the Indiana- ballers’ association (AIC) underwear line could help due to the coronavirus The NBA, NHL, NFL and and hockey. They want polis 500 have been postponed; yesterday urged football take his earnings this year pandemic. Major League Baseball were all and thousands of arena authorities in the country to to see their sports. They close to the $100m mark Three of Ronaldo’s represented on the call by their employees have lost work strike a deal to safeguard again. team-mates at Juventus -- commissioners - Adam Silver, want to go out onto the golf because of the shutdown of the lower league players, who risk This would help take Argentine star PauPaulo Gary Bettman, Roger Goodell courses and breathe nice, sports and entertainment losing their livelihoods due to himhim ppastast the $1bn in total DDybala,ybala, ItalItaliani and Rob Manfred, respectively. clean, beautiful fresh air: industries. the deadly coronavirus earningsarnings over an 18-18-yearyear dedefenderfender DDanieleani “I want fans back in the NASCAR gave teams a ten- pandemic. US President Donald Trump career.areer. RonaldoRonaldo mademade RuganiRugani and FranFrance’sc arenas,” Trump said later in a tative schedule to resume racing “In Lega Pro (which hishis professionalprofessional debut World CupCup winningwinn briefing at the White House. on May 24 with the Coca-Cola manages the third-tier Serie inn 22002.002. midfieldermid fie l d “I think it’s... whenever we’re 600 at Charlotte Motor C), Serie D and women’s The 35-year-old35-year-old BBlaiselais ready. As soon as we can, obvi- without clearance from public Speedway. North Carolina’s football there are players who iss currentcurrentlyly in his MatuidiMatuidi hhavea ously. And the fans want to be health officials. The people stay-at-home order is through provide for their families with hometownhometown ooff allall testtested back, too. They want to see bas- spoke to AP on condition of ano- April 30. The next race on NAS- very low earnings,” AIC Pres- MadeiraMadeira as tthehe positivepositive for ketball and baseball and football nymity because no discussion CAR’s schedule is May 9 at Mar- ident Damiano Tommasi told footballootball thethe nnovelo and hockey. They want to see points from the call were to be tinsville Speedway in Virginia, Rainews24. seasoneason inin virus tthat their sports. They want to go out revealed publicly. which is under a stay-at-home “We’re looking to see if Italytaly and hashas tatakenk onto the golf courses and breathe Others on the call included order through June 10. NASCAR the resources we can get our arounda r oun d nearlynear nice, clean, beautiful fresh air.” PGA Tour Commissioner Jay has so far declined to publicly hands on can help give them thehe worldworld 665,0005 ,00 A person with direct Monahan, Indianapolis Motor address the schedule and said it some security... 70 percent grindedrinded around the knowledge of what was dis- Speedway owner Roger Penske, had no comment on the call with of players in the Lega Pro too a halt world.world. cussed on the call said Trump UFC President Dana White, Trump. have gross earnings of less believes the NFL season - World Wrestling Entertainment’s Trump even addressed Little than €50,000 ($54,000) a scheduled to begin September Vince McMahon, MLS Commis- League players on Saturday, year.” 10 - will start on time with fans sioner Don Garber, WNBA Com- tweeting to tell them, “hang in On Saturday, the Pres- in seats. missioner Cathy Englebert, LPGA there! We will get you back out ident of the Lega Pro A second person with Commissioner Mike Whan and on the fields, and know that you Francesco Ghirelli said sides knowledge of the call said that Breeders’ Cup President Drew will be playing baseball soon. We in the division could dis- some commissioners, Silver Fleming. will get through this together, appear in the wake of the among them, stressed to Trump The NBA was the first of the and bats will be swinging before coronavirus pandemic, that they are working on mul- major US sports leagues to shut you know it. In the meantime, which appeared yesterday tiple plans to resume their down on March 11, doing so after take care of mom and dad, and to be slowly abating in Italy seasons but cautioned that none Utah Jazz center Rudy Gobert know that this will not be but has still killed Cristiano Ronaldo of those plans can be enacted tested positive for the COVID-19 forever!” thousands. 02 SPORT MONDAY 6 APRIL 2020

Sergio Garcia Rooney says handling of PL pay row ‘a disgrace’ AFP — LONDON being exerted on players was amount clubs would save with champions, who in February unhelpful. wage cuts.And he questioned announced pre-tax profits of Wayne Rooney (pictured) has The Premier League’s sug- why stars from other sports £42m ($51m) for 2018/19. criticised the government and gested strategy involving a were not the focus of similar Rooney’s former England the Premier League (PL) for combination of pay cuts and attention. and Manchester United team- placing footballers in a “no-win deferrals amounting to 30 Former England striker mate Gary Neville, now a situation” over proposed pay percent of wages, was discussed Gary Lineker echoed Rooney’s leading broadcaster, was highly cuts after players were urged in a conference call with sentiments, telling the BBC that critical of the Premier League. to make sacrifices during the players’ and managers’ repre- footballers he had spoken to “The PL are handling the CV coronavirus crisis. sentatives on Saturday. were “desperately keen” to (coronavirus) crisis terribly,” he The former England Initial talks were already offer help but were an easy wrote on Twitter, before out- captain, now playing with taking place before key political target. lining a checklist of perceived Championship side Derby, figures, including Health Sec- “Why not call on all the mis-steps including their penned an impassioned column retary Matt Hancock, called for wealthy to try and help if they slowness in imposing a in the Sunday Times saying his action. possibly can rather than just lockdown and the “PR disaster” fellow professionals were “easy “If the government pick on footballers?” he said. of furloughing. With ‘no competition’ targets” in the wider response approached me to help support “Nobody seems to talk Oliver Dowden, Secretary to the pandemic. nurses financially or buy ven- about the bankers, the CEOs, of State for Digital, Culture, due to virus, golfers It came after the Profes- tilators I’d be proud to do so -- huge millionaires. Are they Media and Sport said he was sional Footballers’ Association as long as I knew where the standing up? Are they being concerned about the way the (PFA) said a proposed 30 money was going,” wrote asked to stand up? We don’t talks had progressed. play waiting game percent pay cut could hurt the Rooney. know.” “Football must play its part National Health Service because The 34-year-old added: The PFA said its members to show that the sport under- it would hit tax receipts. “I’m in a place whereere I could wanted to play their part but stands the pressures its lowerlower- Rooney said he had both the give something up. Not every warnedwarned that a proposedproposed 30 ppaidaid stastaff,ff, communities anandd AFP — PARIS Unfortunately for his means and the will to make footballer is in thethe same percent salary reduction would fans face,” he tweeted.tweeted. son, the end result, shown in financial contributions, either position. Yet suddenlydenly the costcost thethe countcountryry £200m From honing their short an Instagram video, was a in the form of salary reductions whole profession hasas been put ($245m)($245m) in lost tax receipts.receipts. games in the garden to giving copy of Brazilian star Ron- or direct donations to the NHS, on the spot with a demandemand fforor EEnglandngland manager their children dubious aldo’s infamous trim from but felt the public pressure 30 percent pay cuts across the Gareth SouthSouthgategate has haircuts and chatting to foot- the 2002 World Cup, not the board. Why are footballersballers sud-sud- reportereportedlydly tatakenken a 30 ballers, golfers have been style worn by five-time denly the scapegoats?s? percentpercent papayy cut, aalthoughlthough finding ways to fill the time Ballon d’Or winner Cristiano “How the past fewfew daysdays thethe FootFootballball Association is without competitive sport. Ronaldo. have played out is a disgrace.”disgrace.” yetyet to confirmconfirm tthehe movmove.e. The world’s major golf He isn’t the only golfer The Premier Leagueeague has A tours have all been sus- keeping busy on social I’m in a place been seen as lagginggging pended until late May at the media, with numerous Tour where I could give behind othere r earliest due to the corona- pros taking part in the something up. Not European leagues inn virus pandemic, with the ‘bounce’ golf ball keepy- its response to coro-o- Masters and PGA Champi- uppy challenge, while others every footballer is in navirus and was accusedused bbyy onship suspended indefi- have been answering ques- the same position. one British lawmakeraker ooff nitely and three of the five tions from fans, or doing operating in a “moral handfulhandful women’s majors interviews with other Yet suddenly the vacuum”. ofof top-top- rescheduled. famous sportspeople. whole profession has But Rooney questionedstioned the flightflight cclubs,lubs, Former Ryder Cup “I love golf, but I think I been put on the spot wisdom of the Premierier LeaLeaguegue includingincluding llastast year’syear’s winner Edoardo Molinari is love the competition more. in preempting behind-the-hind-the- ChampionsChampions League ffinalistsinalists in his native Italy, which has If there’s no competition and with a demand for scenes talks involvingng plaplayersyers LiverpoolLiverpool and Tottenham, been one of the hardest-hit there’s nothing to look 30 percent pay cuts with its own proposalsposals for havehave opted to furloughfurlough countries by the COVID-19 forward to, I don’t really see sweeping reductions.s. non-playingnon-playing staffstaff usingusing thethe outbreak, with the virus the point in going out and across the board. “In my opinion itit is now a safetysafety net ooff tthehe ggovern-overn- causing over 15,000 deaths practising,” world number Why are footballers no-win situation,”” hhee saisaid.d. ment’sment’s jojobb retention in the European nation. one Rory McIlroy told suddenly the “Whatever way you look at it, scheme.scheme. “Golf is not a priority. former England interna- we’re easy targets.” BButut fformerormer LiverpooLiverpooll The most important thing tional footballer Jamie scapegoats? He said the Premier playersplayers Jamie CarraCarraghergher right now is to make sure we Redknapp. Wayne Rooney League’s contributionon ooff £20m andand Stan CollymoreCollymore all behave in a way that can The players don’t know to the NHS was “a ddroprop in the stronglystrongly criticisedcriticised tthehe help this situation get under when the tours will resume, ocean” compared withwith the moveove by tthe e EuropeanE ur opean control,” Molinari wrote in with the potential for a his blog for the European packed schedule later in the Tour website. year. Top golfers find it easier “Potentially you’re Manchester to get through the lockdown looking at four majors, the UEFA denies August 3 than most people, with many Ryder Cup and the FedEx City will not ask having personal gyms, Cup in the space of 12 practice facilities and weeks,” said McIlroy. government deadline to complete CL swimming pools at their But some professional homes. players are still competing, Major champions Sergio with several ‘mini-tours’ to pay staff REUTERS — LONDON This is not true,” said a Association and the European Garcia and Martin Kaymer continuing behind closed statement from European soc- Leagues in the working group have joined fundraising doors in the US, where golf REUTERS — LONDON UEFA has denied there is an cer’s governing body. set up on 17 March,” the UEFA efforts to help those suf- is allowed in most states as August 3 deadline to complete “The President was very clear statement said. fering from the disease. a designated activity despite Manchester City will not seek this season’s Champions League not to set exact dates for the end “The primary priority of all Molinari has been doing the lockdowns. to use the government job (CL) after a report by German of the season.” Soccer leagues the members of the working a daily quiz on Instagram to LPGA Tour rookie Haley retention scheme and furlough broadcaster ZDF quoted the across Europe and beyond have group is to preserve public help give fans something to Moore collected $2,500 for staff during the shutdown body’s President Aleksander been suspended because of the health. do and raise money for his winning on the Cactus Tour caused by the coronavirus Ceferin as saying the compe- coronavirus pandemic. The “Following on from that, it is local hospitals in Turin. in Arizona yesterday. pandemic, the Premier League tition had to be finished by that Champions League has stalled to find calendar solutions to com- “The only thing we ask “I just want to stay club has told its employees. date. with the round of 16 yet to be plete all competitions. Options is that in order to be able to competitive and stay sharp Several clubs, including “It has been reported that completed. are currently being studied to participate, you have to with my game,” Moore told Premier League leaders Liv- UEFA President, Aleksander “UEFA is currently ana- play matches in July and in make a donation on our the Golf Channel after erpool and Tottenham Ceferin told ZDF in Germany lysing all options to complete August if needed, depending on gofundme page, which goes winning the event played Hotspur, have drawn fire for that the UEFA Champions domestic and European seasons restart dates and the permission to help hospitals in Turin,” under special rules, with taking advantage of the gov- League must finish by 3 August. with the European Club of national authorities.” he said. players in twosomes, no ernment’s scheme which On a lighter note, English bunker rakes and one pays 80% of the wages of Ryder Cup hero Ian Poulter player to a cart. staff furloughed by their In this ﬁle photo, Atalanta players celebrate in front of their fans after the Champions League used his spare time to cut his “It’s very safe what companies due to the global Round of 16 ﬁrst leg match against Valencia in San Siro, Milan, on February 19, 2020. son’s hair “like Ronaldo’s”. they’re doing.” health crisis. City, owned by Sheikh Mansour’s Abu Dhabi United Group, are the first Premier League club to state that they Pulev to donate half of will not be going down that route. Employees were sent Joshua fight money to emails this weekend reas- suring them that their jobs would be protected. coronavirus medics “We can confirm, following a decision by the REUTERS — NEW YORK “I will give doctors, nurses Chairman (Khaldoon Al and hospitals the necessary Mubarak) and Board last week, The IBF’s mandatory challenger equipment to deal with this that Manchester City will not Kubrat Pulev said he will devilish virus.” be utilising the UK Govern- donate half of his purse from Last month Pulev said the ment’s Coronavirus Job the world heavyweight title fight would take place “towards Retention Scheme,” a spokes- fight against Briton Anthony the end of the year” due to the person said. Joshua to help medical workers outbreak and that he would “We remain determined fight the “devilish” coronavirus. have no problem fighting to protect our people, their The 38-year-old Bulgarian without spectators in jobs and our business whilst India shows interest to host Asian Cup 2027 is expected to earn around $5m attendance. at the same time doing what from the fight, which has been Pulev, one of Bulgaria’s we can to support our wider IANS — KOLKATA It will be the first time launch a bid for 2027 Asian postponed due to the pandemic, most popular sportsmen, had community at this most chal- India will host the continental Cup. India have also been having originally been previously challenged for the lenging time for India has submitted its event if the interest sees the awarded hosting rights for the scheduled for June 20 at the IBF world heavyweight title in everybody.” expression of interest to host light of the day. 2022 Women’s AFC Asian Cup Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in 2014 but lost to Wladimir With the issue of players’ the AFC Asian Cup in 2027, All The AFC had extended the in 2022. London. Klitschko in Hamburg when he wages during the shutdown India Football Federation deadline to lodge expression Previously, India have “I will donate 50% of the was knocked out in the fifth rumbling on across Europe (AIFF) general secretary of interest by three months hosted the Men’s U-17 World money I earn from the match round. and England’s rich top-flight Kushal Das said. from March 31 to June 30 in Cup and were slated to host with Joshua to the tireless The 30-year-old Joshua clubs being closely scrutinised, “We have submitted the view of the COVID-19 pan- the Women’s U-17 World Cup heroes in the fight against the reclaimed the WBA, WBO and Liverpool’s announcement expression of interest to AFC demic. Saudi Arabia is the in November. But it got post- coronavirus,” Pulev told IBF belts with a unanimous that it will furlough many (Asian Football Confeder- other nation which has pub- poned due to the coronavirus German daily Bild points win over Andy Ruiz Jr in employees is looking like a PR ation),” Das said. licly expressed its interest to pandemic. yesterday. December. own goal. MONDAY 6 APRIL 2020 SPORT 03

The ICC Cricket World Cup final match between Australia and New Zealand being played at the Badminton Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in this March 29, 2015 file photo. The MCG will host the Twenty20 World Cup final later this year. Worlds to be rescheduled amid Olympic clash

IANS – LONDON

The Badminton World Championships next year are set to be rescheduled because of a clash with the World T20 organisers hopeful despite new dates for the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games. The Badminton World Federation (BWF) said it potential clash with other sport events was working with organisers in Spain’s Huelva to find a new time slot, after REUTERS – MELBOURNE beginning of summer cricket told Australian Associated With both the Australian (ICC) has maintained there is the 2020 Olympics were to draw maximum attention. Press (AAP). Football League (AFL) and no change in its plans, and postponed until 2021 due Organisers expect this year’s With both the Australian “People love a World Cup. National Rugby League Hockley hoped they would not to the coronavirus pan- Twenty20 World Cup to be a Football League (AFL) and Cricket is Australia’s national require any either. demic, Xinhua news success even if it has to vie National Rugby League (AFL) sport ... and T20 is the format (AFL) seasons suspended “We’re wanting to give agency reported with Australian rules football seasons suspended due to the that appeals to the broadest due to the pandemic, ourselves the best possible yesterday. and rugby league for viewers pandemic, they may now clash possible demographic,” he they may now clash with chance of going ahead as It is not yet clear due to the COVID-19 with the Twenty20 World Cup said. the Twenty20 World Cup planned, so there’s no whether the World Cham- pandemic, the head of the when they resume. “We’re very encouraged imminent or quick decision,” pionships will be held in organising committee said “In the event they have already by the take up in terms when they resume. he said. 2021 or delayed until 2022. yesterday. extended seasons...we still of ticket sales.” “Hopefully it’s all resolved “The BWF is aware of The October 18-November think the World Cup is a really The women’s tournament The organisers expect the and we go ahead. In the event the need to reschedule the 15 tournament was slotted into strong proposition that might proved a big success, with men’s tournament to replicate that it isn’t completely 2021 World Champion- Australia’s sports calendar not come here again for 10 or hosts Australia beating India that success despite uncer- resolved, we are looking at all ships normally staged in between the end of the 20 years,” Nick Hockley, CEO in the March 8 final to defend tainty around it. The governing the different scenarios. Which August, with suitable alter- football season and the of the organising committee, their title. International Cricket Council is only prudent,” he added. natives being discussed with hosts Spain,” the BWF said in a statement. The postponement of Coach Arthur says Sri Lanka the Olympic Games has caused widespread dis- ruption to the sporting calendar in 2021. World Ath- T20 team needs fine-tuning letics has already confirmed it will push back its REUTERS – COLOMBO A sterner test had awaited believe that we have now the World Championships to them in a two-match home series players and gameplans to have 2022, while the World Sri Lanka’s Twenty20 squad needs against England, but that was can- success both at home and abroad Aquatics Championships some adjustments, said coach celled last month owing to the in the future.” could also be delayed by a Mickey Arthur, who will be over- COVID-19 pandemic. year. seeing the team’s bid for a second “It was really disappointing not Earlier in the week, the 20-overs World Cup title later this playing the Test series against Badminton World Feder- year. England although this will be ation froze the world In home fixtures last month, Sri played at a later date,” said Arthur, We have some very rankings, saying standings Aussie legend Ponting Lanka swept a three-match who has also coached South Africa, as on March 17 will be the one-day series against West Indies Australia and Pakistan. realistic goals with our basis for entry and shares his ‘favourite but lost two Twenty20 “We had jjustust worked Test team and believe seedings when it begins as Internationals. ooutut a bbrandrand tthathat we that we have now the international calendar “Our T20 side is still going to knew would be suc-suc- has been thrown in choppy piece of memorabilia’ take some fine-tuning and this was cessful against all the players and waters due to the amplified against a very strong teams, and I jjustust gameplans to COVID-19 pandemic. IANS – SYDNEY West Indies team that simply had hopehope thatthat thethe have success too much power for us,” Arthur said momentummomentum thathatt Ricky Ponting yesterday shared a photograph of the in a chat with Sri Lanka Cricket we hadhad builtbuilt upup both at home Australian baggy green that he wore throughout his Test (SLC) media unit. willwill not bbee llostost and abroad Fiji rugby career and the new one that he had received from his “I think the most important withwith ouourr TTestest in the future: wife Rianna Jennifer Cantor and Cricket Australia when thing is building a method to win teamteam whwhenen wwee he retired in 2012. games based on the resources that start up again,”again,” hhee Mickey Arthur players “This is my favourite piece of memorabilia gifted to you have at your disposal and then said.said. me by Rianna and Cricket Australia when I retired. A making sure that the players are ““WeWe havehave somesome arrested for brand new cap on the left and my pride and joy on the under no illusion as to what that very realistic goals right, looking a bit worse for wear after about 140odd method is based on our strengths,” withwith ouourr TestTest breaching Tests,” he said in his tweet. he said. teamteam aandnd Widely rated as one of the greatest Australian cap- The 2014 champions will be virus isolation tains and batsmen of all time, Ponting played 168 Tests chasing their second 20-overs and scored 13,378 runs at an average of 51.85. He also world title in Australia in AFP – SUVA, FIJI has 41 Test tons under his kitty. Additionally, Ponting also October-November. turned out for Australia in 375 ODIs and scored 13,704 Since Arthur took over in Two Fiji rugby players have runs which includes 30 centuries. He won three back to December, Sri Lanka have lost a been arrested for ignoring back World Cups in 1999, 2003 and 2007 and the latter Test series in Pakistan but prevailed the Pacific nation’s coro- two victories came under his captaincy. in Zimbabwe earlier this year. navirus self-isolation rules, He is also the only captain apart from West Indies’ with local authorities Clive Lloyd to have scored a century in a final of a World saying their “irresponsible Cup. With a win ratio of 67.91%, Ponting is rated as one behaviour” would be of the most successful captains of all time, leading the Pressure grows for a shortened reported to rugby’s world dominant Australian team that starred the likes of Shane governing body. Warne, Matthew Hayden, Glenn McGrath and so on. The two men have not version of IPL behind closed doors been publically identified but the Fiji Rugby Union confirmed they were pro- Bangalore burdened by AFP – NEW DELHI The world’s richest cricket The league is a huge revenue fessionals and media tournament has been postponed earner for the Board of Control reported them variously to title pressure: Kohli Players are putting pressure on until April 15, which coincides for Cricket in India (BCCI) and is be sevens players and cricket authorities to plan a with the end of India’s 21 day estimated to generate more than internationals. REUTERS – NEW DELHI shortened Twenty20 Indian nationwide shutdown to halt the $11bn for the Indian economy. The news brought an Premier League later in the year spread of the pandemic. Chinese mobile phone-maker emotional response from Royal Challengers Bangalore need to rediscover the joy of to “kickstart” the sports economy But with the number of cases Vivo paid $330m to be the Simon Raiwalui, who cricket if they are to end their Indian PPremierremier LeLeagueLeagueague ((IPL)IPL) afterafter thethe coronaviruscoronavirus llockdown.ockdown. andand deatdeaths rising and India iso- league’s top sponsor for works for Fiji Rugby with title drought, captain Virat Kohli (pictured)ured) hashas said.said. latedlated frfromo international travel, 2018-2022. the title of high-per- Star-studded Bangalore have reachedheed ththreeree fifinalsnnaalls ofof ththee fewfew believebbelie any sport will be pos- Former India batsman Sanjay formance general Twenty20 league but are one of only ththreehree eexexistingisi tingg ffran-ran- siblesiible inn tthe sub-continent for at Manjrekar said the league, which manager. chises -- along with Delhi and Punjabb --- nnotot ttoo hhahaveve wwonon leastleleasst ththreehrer months. involves stars such as England’s “For those of you that the title. “Let’s“LLete ’s say July-August is the Ben Stokes, David Warner and Pat have chosen not to respect “You go after something so badly,ly, andana d it earliest,”eae rllieestt,”, said Kevin Pietersen, the Cummins of Australia, and India the mandatory 14 day self keeps running away from you,” Kohlihhli ttotoldldd formerformmerr EEngland batsman. captain Virat Kohli, will inject life isolation, shame on you former England batsman and ex-RCBB tteteameamm “I“ ddoo truly believe the IPL into the virus-ravaged economy. and each of you will have mate Kevin Pietersen in an Instagramm chat.chah t. shsshouldhououldd hhappen. I think every “The moment we get clear- your day of reckoning,” “It has just that added pressure inn rrerecentcecenntt singlesiinnglele pplayerlala around the world is ances from all the authorities that the former Fiji interna- years. We’ve just thought, ‘this is the sseseason,asson, desperatededesps eraate to play the IPL,” he said matter, the IPL should happen, tional lock posted on this is the season’, and that’s blown uss allall oovervever onon IIndianndn iaan broadcaster Star Sports. only because it will kickstart the Facebook late on the place. PietersenPiiete err suggested the eight- economy,” said the Saturday. The India captain acknowledged thathhat eexexpec-xpepec- teamteamam ttournamentouo be shortened cricketer-turned-commentator. Fiji are the Olympic tations were bound to be high from a tteameaam ffefea-ea- fromfrf oomm iitststs normal eight-week “Because when you talk about sevens champions and turing some of the most destructivee TTwTwenty20weennttyy2020 durationdduraratiioonn and played behind the IPL it’s not just about the were third in the current batsmen in cricket. closedclclosseded ddoors.o Mumbai Indians, or a (Mahendra world series before it was “When you have some of the biggestgeg sst namesnamameess toto “There“T“Theer could be a way in which Singh) Dhoni or a Virat Kohli, put on hold because of play for RCB, obviously there’s going to bebe mmumuchuchch mmoreoro e toto getgete ssomeomo money into the fran- there are a lot of people who are the coronavirus attention on the team. Even with thiss teteameaamm ---- chises,chchisi eses, intoiint the economy by having making their livelihood through pandemic. myself, AB (de Villiers) and (Chris) Gayleylele hhasass a sissituationituuata iioo where you use maybe the IPL.” Prime Minister Frank played recently for us as well -- we’re alwayswwaaysys threethhreree vvevenuesn which are completely Stokes and Cummins have Bainimarama accused the going to be more in focus. We’ve spokenokeken closedclclososedd to fans,” said Pietersen. already voiced their eagerness to players of putting “the about it,” Kohli said. “And“A the players can still go participate in the IPL. whole of Fiji at risk”. “We’ve reached three finals ... but thoseosse outouo t aanand play the tournament in Kolkata Knight Riders-con- He said one player, things are irrelevant till the time you don’ton’t threethreee weeks or in four weeks. tracted Cummins said “everyone’s who arrived from Sin- win that title." “I“ think the fans need to still really keen for it (IPL) to all gapore, “had a high risk of Their bid for a maiden IPL title will haveavev understandund they can’t watch go ahead”. exposure to the virus while to wait though, as the start of this year’s tour-ouur- a liveliv game at the moment BCCI President Sourav overseas” and then nament has been put back to April 15 ddueue andannd they might not be able Ganguly has conceded the IPL will escaped from isolation in to the COVID-19 pandemic, with anotherher to wwatch a live game for the be a “truncated” affair if it a Fiji hospital. postponement seemingly inevitable. foreseeablefores future.” happens at all. 04 SPORT MONDAY 6 APRIL 2020

Detroit Pistons 2020 Formula One Championship scout Hanks survives virus should be cancelled: Ecclestone battle

AFP — LONDON Lewis Hamilton this year is aiming to match Michael become a father for the fourth the first time since a near fatal Schumacher’s record of seven drivers’ titles, though time, said: “I don’t think it will crash two years ago and while REUTERS — NEW YORK Bernie Ecclestone says this there have been suggestions a truncated season make a lot of difference to it will be a virtual IndyCar race season’s Formula One Cham- would diminish the achievement. Lewis. He would win whatever the Canadian sees it is another Detroit Pistons scout pionship should be cancelled the race number, whether it be step towards the real thing. Maury Hanks has because it appears unlikely that eight, 16 or 20. “I’m just excited to drive returned home after a enough races can be completed pandemic continues to over- ficult situation,” he added. “If it’s a world champi- something. Last night was the fierce battle with the for it to be valid due to the coro- shadow the sporting calendar. Lewis Hamilton was this onship and he wins, it would go first time I’ve driven any form coronavirus, his wife navirus crisis. A minimum of eight races year aiming to match Michael on his record and say he has of race car since the accident at Susan told CBS Sports on The opening eight rounds are required for the champi- Schumacher’s record of seven won a world championship. The Pocono Speedway,” Wickens Saturday. of the 2020 season have been onship to be valid, but former drivers’ titles, though there have terrible thing is he would win told reporters during a con- Hanks spent nine days either cancelled or postponed, F1 chief executive Ecclestone been suggestions a truncated all eightg races. It wouldn’t be a ference call on Friday,y after on a ventilator while in with doubts over a number of believesbe eves that t at will w not ot be season would diminish the superuper gettinggetting in his first few intensive care at Uni- thethe ototherher 14 possible.possible. achievement. championship.”hampionship.” practice laps at Barber versity of Tennessee races as “We“We sshouldhould stop thethe ccham-ha But Ecclestone, set to Meanwhile,Meanwhile, MotorsportMotorsport ParPark.k. Medical Center in the pionship this yyearear and sstartt RobertR obert “Even thoughthough it Knoxville. He is now again next year, hopefully,hopefu WickensW ickens waswas virtual it still slated to spend two weeks becausebecause I can’t see it’s ggoingo willwill be feltfelt pretty good.”good.” in self-quarantine at to bbee possiblepossible to get thethe rightri backack home. amountamount of races in that countcou behinde h ind Hanks, 57, was forfor a championship,”championship,” thet We should stop the thehe reportedly taken to the 89-year-old89-year-old told BBCBBC RadioRadi . championship this wheelwheel forfor medical center by ambu- “There’s“There’s got to bbee eieightg lance on March 23. He fromfrom memory,memory, and I can’t sees year and start again reportedly felt fatigued themthem getting thatthat in. It’s a ddif- next year, hopefully, the previous day and then because I can’t symptoms rapidly increased on the 23rd. see it’s going to be As word of the possible to get the severity of Hanks’ illness circulated throughout the right amount of races NBA, a slew of messages in that count for a arrived, and Susan Hanks championship: Bernie would ask nurses to put a Lewis Hamilton Bernie Ecclestone phone up to her husband’s Ecclestone ear so she could read the messages. She also did it while Maury Hanks was unconscious. “I know (Maury’s) Olympics delay worked in the basketball NHL: New York Islanders’ Greene business a long time, but ‘could boost I really had no idea how many friends that we Britain’s cycling plans to continue playing career have,” Susan Hanks said. “The number of REUTERS — NEW YORK Greene said. “Then, all of a people that have been medal haul’ Andy Greene sudden, in three weeks, this is reaching out is honestly Veteran Andy Greene says he where we’re at and we’re going mind-blowing.... I don’t AFP — LONDON isn’t putting away the sticks and to try something. All of a think he’ll ever be able to skates, but he has no idea where sudden, you’re like, ‘Oh, my thank everyone that has British Cycling he’ll play his next NHL game. God, what have I been doing?’ called and checked up on performance director The 37-year-old “I’ve been getting up every him. It’s just been unbe- Stephen Park says the defenceman was with the New morning, training, doing pretty lievable. The NBA family nation’s elite riders are York Islanders for just 3 1/2 good workouts and trying, I has shown up for Maury “gutted” about the post- weeks before the coronavirus think, to mentally stay sharp,” like I never could’ve ponement of the Tokyo outbreak led to the suspension Greene added. imagined.” Olympics but believes the of the NHL campaign. He said “It’s a good release and a Hanks isn’t the lone extra year can help them he has enjoyed his time with the good focus to get dialed in there person in the Pistons’ bring home more medals. organization but told Newsday for an hour or two or however organisation who was The decision to move he will keep all his options long your workout is.” Greene diagnosed with COVID-19. the Games back 12 months open. said he has had no discussions Forward Christian Wood due to the coronavirus “It’s one of those things in about his playing future with also tested positive and came as riders were terms of what’s going to happen Islanders general manager Lou has since recovered. ramping up their final next year, we’ve got to figure of a five-year, $25m deal, so he Devils. Not being with the Lamoriello, who formerly Detroit’s final game preparations for an event out what’s going to finish this will become a free agent once Devils after 13 1/2 seasons was served as GM of the Devils for before the season was they have spent the past year off and then worry about the season is either finished or enough of a change, but the Greene’s first nine NHL seasons. suspended was on March three years focusing on. that when we get there,” Greene canceled. He has three assists pandemic has caused a high Lamoriello declined comment 11 against the Philadelphia But Park said despite told Newsday earlier this week. in 10 games since being level of uncertainty for every to Newsday when asked if he 76ers. Four nights earlier, the upheaval, it was an “I’m not going to worry acquired by the Islanders via NHL player, including Greene. would attempt to retain Greene. the Pistons played the opportunity for the team about it. We’ll cross that bridge trade, after having 11 points “You can’t sit there right Overall, Greene has 246 Utah Jazz, and Wood had who have dominated when we get there.” (two goals, nine assists) in 53 now and go, ‘We’re done, I’m points (49 goals, 197 assists) in 30 points and 11 rebounds Olympic cycling events Greene is in the final season games with the New Jersey not going to train or do this,’” 923 career games. while going up against since the Beijing Games in Utah’s Rudy Gobert, who 2008. was the first NBA player “Of course our riders to test positive for the are gutted about Tokyo,” Verlander to donate pay during MLB shutdown coronavirus. Park told Britain’s Press Association, saying most REUTERS — NEW YORK families and jobs affected, the the season is played. The 37-year Hanks isn’t the riders would have pre- healthcare workers and first old was scheduled to make $33m ferred to compete this Veteran Houston Astros pitcher responders on the front lines this season. lone person in year. Justin Verlander (pictured) said and the many others in need of “We know everyone is the Pistons’ “But there is a little bit he will donate his adjusted basic necessities, medical sup- impacted by this crisis, but for of relief that we’ve now paycheck during MLB’s coro- plies and support at home,” those who are able, we organisation who got one more year so navirus shutdown to multiple Verlander wrote on his post. “As encourage you to stay home to was diagnosed we’ve got a real oppor- organisations providing soon as the first paycheck is help flatten the curve and look with COVID-19. tunity to be even better in assistance during the crisis. received we will be highlighting to those around you who need 2021 than we were in Verlander made the the first organization.” a helping hand,” Verlander Forward Christian 2020,” he added. announcement via Instagram MLB players are receiving wrote. Wood also tested Britain came back on Saturday along with his wife, up-front pay while baseball is on The two-time Cy Young positive and has from the UCI Track World Kate Upton. hiatus. Verlander is scheduled to Award winner and 2011 AL MVP Championships in Berlin “Everyone around the world receive $286,500 over the course is 225-129 over 453 starts since recovered. last month with only one is affected by this virus, and we of 60 days, with players obligated during a 15-year career with the gold medal and Park hope to contribute to the to pay back the up-front sum if Detroit Tigers and Astros. admitted at the time their era of dominance in the velodrome could be over. Britain have won the NFL teams to conduct draft from homes: Report men’s team pursuit at the past three Olympics but in Berlin they saw Denmark REUTERS — NEW YORK with as few people on hand as break the world record With coronavirus cases and possible. three times to win in a time The 2020 NFL Draft now will deaths still on the rise, the NFL There were recommenda- of three minutes 44.672 be a stay-at-home affair as top will set an example for extreme tions to delay the draft as seconds, more than five team officials will participate social distancing during the physical, intellectual and psy- seconds better than Brit- in the April 23-25 event from most popular weekend of the chological testing of top college ain’s fastest-ever time. their individual residences, offseason as the living room talent reportedly has been But Park said there ESPN reported. becomes the war room. interrupted because of the was no sense of panic and With coronavirus cases and COVID-19 pandemic. they would use the extra deaths still on the rise, the NFL The Cincinnati Bengals have time to reset. will set an example for extreme the No. 1 overall selection in the “We’re not going to social distancing during the 2020 NFL Draft after finishing strip it down and rebuild most popular weekend of the the 2019 season with a 2-14 it because we don’t think record. it’s broken,” said Park. The Cincinnati Their selection will be fol- “Despite what others Bengals have the No. lowed by the Washington Red- might think looking in at skins, Detroit Lions, New York the results, we weren’t a 1 overall selection in Giants, Miami Dolphins, Los million miles away. the 2020 NFL Draft Angeles Chargers, Carolina “We’re not starting Panthers, Arizona Cardinals, again with a blank piece after ﬁnishing the offseason as the living room draft in its newest market, Las Goodell said last month that the Jacksonville Jaguars and of paper. We’ve got good 2019 season with a becomes the war room. Vegas. Players will participate draft would take place on its Cleveland Browns. The Super history, good process in 2-14 record. Team facilities have virtually from their own regularly scheduled dates. The Bowl champion Kansas City the men’s endurance.” closed, and the league called homes instead. initial plan, before Saturday’s Chiefs will draft last in the first off plans to hold a splashy NFL commissioner Roger report, was to conduct the event round, 32nd overall.