MCC not bidding for IPL team

Published Sat, Mar 06 10 01:23 PM

London, Mar 6 (PTI) The Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) has decided not to bid for the new Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises that would be unveiled tomorrow in Mumbai. After initial interest, MCC has decided against putting its money in the league, which will have two new franchises from next season. MCC president John Barclay and head of cricket John Stephenson will, however, will be in India next week to attend the IPL opening ceremony in Mumbai. At this ceremony, the eight team leaders will sign a Captain''s Charter to adhere to the MCC Spirit of Cricket ''Play Hard, Play Fair'' principles. "MCC has confirmed that it was not part of the bids that were lodged in Mumbai for the two new Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises. The MCC Committee had met earlier this week at Lord''s to discuss its potential involvement with an IPL franchise," the MCC said in a statement. MCC''s Chief Executive Keith Bradshaw, along with Anthony Wreford, a Club Trustee, had travelled to India to "fact-find and discuss proposals with potential IPL consortium members". A small working party subsequently reported back to the MCC Committee. .

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My heart beats for India, but prospects bleak

Published>Sat, Mar 06 10 01:17 PM

India, March 6 -- The loss to Spain must have dashed the hopes of Indian fans, but our team has an opportunity to salvage their reputation when they take on England. Team morale will be at its lowest, but it is here that they can show some steel by hitting back with all they have got. England are riding a high, exceeding all expectations with their all-win record, including wins against Australia and Pakistan, and will be a tough proposition. But the Indian team has nothing to lose. A win over England and then South Africa will help us battle for the fifth to eighth spots, which will also earn us a place in the Champions Trophy. Having watched replays of our losses to Australia and Spain, I am sure England will come at us hard and fast and our defence needs to be rock steady if they hope to repel England's forwards, who have set up high scoring wins for them. Much as my heart beats for India, I feel our chances are bleak unless Sandeep Singh does something special to justify his reputation as a leading penalty corner specialist. Every team is relying on their specialists to deliver the goods, but Sandeep managed to do so only against Pakistan. He needs to find his scoring form again. I would like to see our players playing to their strengths and not getting carried away by the crowd's reaction. I must mention here that the Indian team looked unprofessional in their approach and were guilty of playing to the gallery, adopting an individualistic rather than the team approach. Dribbling past a couple of players is attractive to the spectator, but losing the ball and setting up a counterattack for the opposition is detrimental. We also need to learn how to compose ourselves in situations. Scoring a goal when down by three, does not warrant the kind of reaction that was on display against Spain. One has to be happy and show appreciation to the crowd but the players need to realise that they have to get on with the game because the team is still trailing.

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'No change in dates, venue of marathon'

Published>Sat, Mar 06 10 12:53 PM

New Delhi, March 6 -- Chief Executive Officer of the 2010 Commonwealth Games, Mike Hooper, said there would be no change in the dates and venue for the road cycling and marathon event for the 2010 Games. There have been speculations about shifting the event out of Delhi after the Delhi Police had shown concerns over blocking the roads for the two events saying it wouldn't be feasible for them to block the entire rout. "As of now there are no changes in the dates and venue of the road cycling and marathon events of the Games. We are going as per the decided schedule," said Mike Hooper on the sidelines of the Hockey World Cup on Friday.

"I am happy with the security arrangements during the Hockey World Cup and recently-held Commonwealth Shooting Championship," he added. On the security issue he said: "We are getting inquiries from NOCs but everybody will be satisfied. We are closely working on the security issue with the Commonwealth Games Federation security advisor."

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North's slot in danger from 'in form' White, Smith for New Zealand Test series

Published>Sat, Mar 06 10 12:33 PM

Sydney, Mar 6(ANI): The Australian selectors are in a dilemma over struggling batsman Marcus North, and some spectacular performances by all-rounder Cameron White and leg-spinner Steve Smith as they meet this weekend to pick the squad for the New Zealand Test series.

Several former cricketers are adamant that North must be sacked after a horror series against West Indies and Pakistan, that will allow Australia to experiment with White and Smith for the Ashes series, which is just 10 months away.

North's place in the Test squad is in doubt after he had a disastrous series against Pakistan, where he scored just 41 runs in three Tests with a top score of 21 and an average of 10.25.

Meanwhile, White has been in thumping one-day and Twenty20 batting form since the series against England last year.

He feels comfortable in the Australian team environment, and Test skipper Ricky Ponting values the tactical input of the Victorian skipper, The Sydney Morning Herald reports.

At the same time, New South Wales (NSW) all-rounder Smith continues to underline his already strong case for selection by making a timely 177 against Tasmania at Bellerive Oval on Thursday.

As far as breakthrough seasons go, Smith's has been extraordinary and this was his third first-class century in just his 12th first-class match.

All three of the tons have been scored this summer, in which he has played nine Shield games for 636 runs.

Former Test off-spinner Ashley Mallett said the New Zealand tour was a perfect opportunity to blood the 20-year-old Smith.

"I thought he bowled bloody well in the recent Twenty20 series against New Zealand. He got that two-for and he looks good under pressure," Mallett said.

"He reminds me of Warnie-he's got that gleam in his eye. I like the way he spins it up and he's prepared to take a bit of a risk," he added.

Smith was earlier called up to the Australian Test side to cover for spinner Nathan Hauritz, who was in doubt for Boxing Day Test against Pakistan, but Hauritz managed to recover. (ANI)

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Jeev rises to tied 29th after Rd2 of Honda Classic

Published Sat, Mar 06 10 12:05 PM

Palm Beach Garden, Florida (USA), Mar 6 (PTI) A flawless front-nine helped Jeev Milkha Singh turn in a one-under 69 and rise 14 places to tied 29th after the second round of the USD 5.6 million Honda Classic golf tournament here. Jeev has a two-day total of one-under 140. After parring the first couple of holes, Jeev struck a birdie on the third and gained two more shots on the fifth and seventh to make the turn three-under. The back-nine started disappointingly as he stumbled to a bogey on the 11th hole but he made amends with a birdie on the 12th hole. But his card was marred by bogeys on the 16th and 17th as he settled one-under for the day. At the top, Columbian Camilo Villegas (66) and American Anthony Kim (64) shared the lead with totals of eight-under 132. Fijian Vijay Singh (66) followed them a stroke adrift at the lone third spot.

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Bobcats pounce on Lakers to turn heat on Miami

Published Sat, Mar 06 10 11:43 AM

The Charlotte Bobcats posted a convincing 98-83 win over the Western Conference-leading Los Angeles Lakers to gain ground on a playoff spot on Friday.

The win moved the Bobcats (29-31) to within a game of the Miami Heat for the eighth and final playoff berth in the Eastern Conference.

Stephen Jackson led the Bobcats with 21 points, as Charlotte won for the first time in three games and handed the Lakers only their third back-to-back loss of the season.

"We played with confidence and we didn't back down," Jackson told reporters. "I think we were the more aggressive team tonight. I wish we could play against good teams like that every night, maybe we would bring the energy and the fire that we need.

"Tonight we hit on all cylinders and we followed our game plan and that's why we got the win."

The Bobcats' bench scored 40 points, including 14 from recently acquired Tyrus Thomas and 12 from D.J. Augustin.

"He's so long and athletic, and he cares about winning," said Bobcats coach Larry Brown about Thomas. "He reminds me a lot of Gerald Wallace in terms of attitude; they both want to get better. That shot-blocking changes a lot of things. There aren't as many easy shots, and we're going after shots and that helps."

Kobe Bryant led all scorers with 26 points but the Lakers struggled from the floor, hitting just 36 percent of their shots including just three of 18 from three-point range.

Andrew Bynum had 14 points for the Lakers and Jordan Farmar had 12 off the bench. Starters Ron Artest and Derek Fisher combined for just five points.

Charlotte, now 21-8 at home, are one of just two teams with winning records against the Lakers, and are now 7-2 in their all-time series. The Celtics are the other team with a winning record against LA.

"They play with a lot of energy. They play their game and we seem like we try to play their game, which they're really good at," said the Lakers' Pau Gasol.

"We are going away from our strengths, and we have no rhythm and no confidence in what we are doing out there."

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Germany win close match against Argentina 4-3

Published>Sat, Mar 06 10 10:43 AM

Defending Champions Germany scraped past a plucky Argentina 4-3 in a Pool A hockey World Cup match to brighten their chances for a semifinal berth here today.

In the battle between the top and bottom-ranked sides, world number one Germany were lucky to have won the match against Argentina making a lot of scoring chances and earning more penalty corners (five against three) at the Major Dhyan Chand Stadium.

Germany, who were clinical in 6-0 drubbing of Canada in their second match, could not control the midfield and their goalkeeper Tim Jessulat saved the side on many occasions including a goal-line clearance in the dying moments.

Martin Zwicker (fifth and 14th minutes), Matthias Witthaus (23rd) and Martin Haner (51st) scored for Germany, while Lucas Martin Vila (sixth), Matias Enrique Paredes (34th) and Pedro Ibarra (55th) found the target for Argentina.

With today's win, Germany, gunning for a hat-trick of titles after their 2002 and 2006 triumphs, are on seven points from two wins and a draw, and are on course for a semifinal berth.

Argentina, on the other hand, are already out of semifinal contention having lost their earlier two matches.

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Twenty20 helped Lee give up Test cricket

Published>Sat, Mar 06 10 10:33 AM

Chandigarh, March 6 -- Brett Lee, fresh from having given up Test cricket to prolong his career, has credited Twenty20 leagues with giving players breathing space. "Yes, it has created an option for us cricketers but in my case I had to consider other factors also, before I made the decision," Lee said during the Kings XI Punjab's ongoing camp. The pacer said it was not easy to follow in the footsteps of Andrew Flintoff, Shane Bond and Jacob Oram and that he would have loved to play in all formats had his body allowed it. "I did not have it in my heart to play five straight days. I still wanted to play for the country and for that to happen something had to give and unfortunately it was Test cricket," Lee said.

"I have made a remarkable progress since my operation and have sent down few balls since my arrival here but I am not sure whether I will be able to play the first match or not," Lee said, when asked if there was a timeframe on when he would be back in action.

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Down but not out, insists Shoaib Akhtar

Published Sat, Mar 06 10 10:03 AM

Karachi, Mar 6 (PTI) His chances of returning to the national team might be bleak but Pakistan''s controversial pacer Shoaib Akhtar maintains that his international cricket career is far from over. Shoaib, who has not been included in the preliminary squad for the Twenty20 World Cup, said he was surprised at not being picked for the tournament. "I was surprised that I was not included in the list of probables because if you look at Brett Lee he has been having fitness issues for last few months and has not played yet he is in the Australian preliminary squad," Shoaib said. "Similarly, Shaun Tait is also in despite his history of injury problems," he added. The Pakistan Cricket Board has justified not picking Shoaib in the preliminary squad by pointing out that he has hardly played any cricket since last May when he played against Australia in Dubai. "How can we select him? We can''t pick him on basis of a few domestic matches. We don''t know how fit he is," the PCB Chairman, Ejaz Butt had told a press conference while announcing the 30 probables last week. But Shoaib said he didn''t care what people or the board said about his fitness. .

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Down but not out, insists Shoaib Akhtar

Published Sat, Mar 06 10 10:05 AM

Karachi, Mar 6 (PTI) His chances of returning to the national team might be bleak but Pakistan''s controversial pacer Shoaib Akhtar maintains that his international cricket career is far from over. Shoaib, who has not been included in the preliminary squad for the Twenty20 World Cup, said he was surprised at not being picked for the tournament. "I was surprised that I was not included in the list of probables because if you look at Brett Lee he has been having fitness issues for last few months and has not played yet he is in the Australian preliminary squad," Shoaib said. "Similarly, Shaun Tait is also in despite his history of injury problems," he added. The Pakistan Cricket Board has justified not picking Shoaib in the preliminary squad by pointing out that he has hardly played any cricket since last May when he played against Australia in Dubai. "How can we select him? We can''t pick him on basis of a few domestic matches. We don''t know how fit he is," the PCB Chairman, Ejaz Butt had told a press conference while announcing the 30 probables last week. But Shoaib said he didn''t care what people or the board said about his fitness. .

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Naved faces ball-tampering accusations now

Published Sat, Mar 06 10 09:51 AM

Karachi, Mar 6 (PTI) After being accused of match-fixing, Pakistan all-rounder Rana Naved is now under the scanner for allegedly tampering with the ball during the ongoing National Twenty20 Championship here. The Karachi City Cricket Association confirmed to PTI that it had sent a letter to the Pakistan Cricket Board outlining its concerns over some poor umpiring and Rana''s ball tampering during a match between Karachi Zebras and Sialkot Stallions. The KCCA has called for an impartial inquiry into the issues they have raised after Sialkot beat Karachi Zebras by four runs in a match on February 28 and were knocked out of contention for semifinals. Rana, who has played nine Tests and 75 one-dayers, could find himself in trouble as well-placed sources said another team had also complained about his ball-tampering habits to the match-referee. "Apart from the KCCA complaint, Ishtiaq Ahmed one of the match referees has also apparently mentioned Rana''s ball tampering habits in his report to the board," a source disclosed. In the letter sent to the board by the KCCA it has written: "We also request you to conduct an inquiry into ball tampering committed by Rana Naved with his nails which was also ignored by the umpires." .

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Naved faces ball-tampering accusations now

Published Sat, Mar 06 10 09:47 AM

Karachi, Mar 6 (PTI) After being accused of match-fixing, Pakistan all-rounder Rana Naved is now under the scanner for allegedly tampering with the ball during the ongoing National Twenty20 Championship here. The Karachi City Cricket Association confirmed to PTI that it had sent a letter to the Pakistan Cricket Board outlining its concerns over some poor umpiring and Rana''s ball tampering during a match between Karachi Zebras and Sialkot Stallions. The KCCA has called for an impartial inquiry into the issues they have raised after Sialkot beat Karachi Zebras by four runs in a match on February 28 and were knocked out of contention for semifinals. Rana, who has played nine Tests and 75 one-dayers, could find himself in trouble as well-placed sources said another team had also complained about his ball-tampering habits to the match-referee. "Apart from the KCCA complaint, Ishtiaq Ahmed one of the match referees has also apparently mentioned Rana''s ball tampering habits in his report to the board," a source disclosed. In the letter sent to the board by the KCCA it has written: "We also request you to conduct an inquiry into ball tampering committed by Rana Naved with his nails which was also ignored by the umpires." .

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NBA - Bobcats pounce on Lakers to turn heat on Miami

Published Sat, Mar 06 10 09:23 AM

The Charlotte Bobcats posted a convincing 98-83 win over the Western Conference-leading Los Angeles Lakers to gain ground on a playoff spot on Friday.

Victory moved the Bobcats (29-31) to within one game of the Miami Heat for the eighth and final playoff berth in the Eastern Conference.

Stephen Jackson sparked the Bobcats with 21 points as Charlotte won for the first time in three games and handed the Lakers only their third back-to-back loss of the season.

Kobe Bryant led all scorers with 26 points but the Lakers struggled from the floor hitting just 36 percent of their shots including just three of 18 from three-point range.

Charlotte improved to 21-8 at home.

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NBA - Bobcats pounce on Lakers to turn heat on Miami

Published Sat, Mar 06 10 09:25 AM

The Charlotte Bobcats posted a convincing 98-83 win over the Western Conference-leading Los Angeles Lakers to gain ground on a playoff spot on Friday.

Victory moved the Bobcats (29-31) to within one game of the Miami Heat for the eighth and final playoff berth in the Eastern Conference.

Stephen Jackson sparked the Bobcats with 21 points as Charlotte won for the first time in three games and handed the Lakers only their third back-to-back loss of the season.

Kobe Bryant led all scorers with 26 points but the Lakers struggled from the floor hitting just 36 percent of their shots including just three of 18 from three-point range.

Charlotte improved to 21-8 at home.

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Kim and Villegas share lead at Honda Classic

Published Sat, Mar 06 10 09:03 AM

American Anthony Kim fired a sparkling six-under 64 to grab a share of the lead with Colombia's Camilo Villegas after the second round of the Honda Classic on Friday.

Kim notched seven birdies and a single bogey to share the day's lowest round on a cool but calm day at the PGA National Champions course in Palm Beach Gardens.

"I'm very happy with the way I played the last two days, not just today," Kim told reporters. "Hopefully I can stay on this path, my game is starting to show signs of life."

Kim joined Villegas on an eight-under total of 132 after the in-form Colombian set an early target by returning a four-under 66 for the second straight day.

Former world number one Vijay Singh finished one stroke adrift after shooting a 66.

The big Fijian had looked headed for a rough day after back-to-back bogeys on the fifth and sixth holes but played flawless golf the rest of day to sit alone on seven-under 133.

Singh, playing free of the back and knee pain that plagued him last season, was unlucky to miss a share of the lead after rolling in a monster 65-foot birdie putt on the 17th, but leaving a 12-foot birdie hanging on the lip on 18.

American Jerry Kelly is two off the pace after a five-under 65 while a group of five are three back including overnight leader Nathan Green of Australia (70), Canada's Mike Weir (64) and Briton Graeme McDowell who was handed a costly penalty after his round.

After landing his tee shot on the 18th in shallow water, McDowell attempted to blast his ball out but grazed the surface on his back swing. He informed officials and was penalised two strokes to leave him at three-under 67.

"It's a two-shot penalty so it's a bit of a bitter-sweet end to the day ... It could have been Sunday and that would hurt a lot more but I've got all weekend to repair the damage."

Yang Yong-eun, who claimed his first PGA crown at last year's tournament, saw his title defence end dismally when he missed the three-over cut by six shots.

The South Korean's even par 70 was not enough to recover from his horror opening round of 79.

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Kim and Villegas share lead at Honda Classic

Published Sat, Mar 06 10 07:03 AM

American Anthony Kim fired a sparkling six-under 64 to grab a share of the lead with Colombia's Camilo Villegas after the second round of the Honda Classic on Friday.

Kim notched seven birdies and a single bogey to share the day's lowest round on a cool but calm day at the PGA National Champions course in Palm Beach Gardens.

"I'm very happy with the way I played the last two days, not just today," Kim told reporters. "Hopefully I can stay on this path, my game is starting to show signs of life."

Kim joined Villegas on an eight-under total of 132 after the in-form Colombian set an early target by returning a four-under 66 for the second straight day.

Former world number one Vijay Singh finished one stroke adrift after shooting a 66.

The big Fijian had looked headed for a rough day after back-to-back bogeys on the fifth and sixth holes but played flawless golf the rest of day to sit alone on seven-under 133.

Singh, playing free of the back and knee pain that plagued him last season, was unlucky to miss a share of the lead after rolling in a monster 65-foot birdie putt on the 17th, but leaving a 12-foot birdie hanging on the lip on 18.

American Jerry Kelly is two off the pace after a five-under 65 while a group of five are three back including overnight leader Nathan Green of Australia (70), Canada's Mike Weir (64) and Briton Graeme McDowell who was handed a costly penalty after his round.

After landing his tee shot on the 18th in shallow water, McDowell attempted to blast his ball out but grazed the surface on his back swing. He informed officials and was penalised two strokes to leave him at three-under 67.

"It's a two-shot penalty so it's a bit of a bitter-sweet end to the day ... It could have been Sunday and that would hurt a lot more but I've got all weekend to repair the damage."

Yang Yong-eun, who claimed his first PGA crown at last year's tournament, saw his title defence end dismally when he missed the three-over cut by six shots.

The South Korean's even par 70 was not enough to recover from his horror opening round of 79.

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Memories in tow, Sardar returns to National Stadium

Published>Sat, Mar 06 10 05:43 AM

Ii used to be a strange relationship between Hassan Sardar and India. The centre-forward loved to visit the country but the Indians always dreaded it. One of the finest players of all times, Sardar guided Pakistan to a memorable double on this side of the border: the 1982 World Cup title in Mumbai and the Asian Games gold that very year, which included a 7-1 victory over India in the final at the National Stadium.

"Every time I come to this stadium, the memories of that (7-1) win fill my mind," said Sardar, who was here on Thursday. "It was a wonderfully organised tournament. A great game. We scored a lot of goals, but India failed to get their name against the goal despite playing attacking hockey.

"Shahid Ali Khan (current coach) was our goalkeeper in the final and was named the man of the match. It shows that it was an open game and India also attacked a lot, but they were unlucky."

None more than Mir Ranjan Negi, the Indian goalie. Sardar's hattrick in the match not only shattered India's medal hopes, it ruined Negi's career.

"Even when two brothers play together, one of them will lose a game. Even the greatest of players has at least one bad day in their career and that was Negi's bad day. He might have committed a lot of mistakes that day, but one should also remember the number of matches that India won relying on his talent," Sardar said.

Now the head of Pakistan's selection committee, Sardar's latest visit, however, hasn't been a pleasant one. The team lost to India in the opening game and another defeat against England has dealt a severe blow to their semi-final chances. "Pakistan is not giving the kind of results that are expected of them in this World Cup, especially the forward-line. Sohail Abbas hasn't been up to the mark. We had recalled him for his drag-flick skills, but as I understand it, the other teams have been able to read him. They must have seen a lot of videos before the World Cup. His form would have made a difference to Pakistan's form," he said.

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Spain level with Swiss, Serbia lead U.S. 2-0

Published>Sat, Mar 06 10 05:23 AM

Spain's David Ferrer dispatched Marco Chiudinelli in straight sets to level the depleted champions' Davis Cup first-round tie against Switzerland at 1-1 in Logrono on Friday.

Seven of the eight World Group matches were under way around Europe, with the start of Chile's tie at home to Israel delayed to Saturday because of the disruption caused by last weekend's deadly earthquake.

World number two Novak Djokovic fired Serbia to a 2-0 lead over the United States in Belgrade with a 6-2 7-6 2-6 6-3 victory over Sam Querrey, after compatriot Viktor Troicki's hard-fought win over John Isner, also in four sets.

Russia carved out a 2-0 advantage over visiting India, victories for Gael Monfils and Jo-Wilfried Tsonga put France 2-0 up at home to Germany, and last year's finalists Czech Republic also opened up a 2-0 lead in Belgium.

Stanislas Wawrinka, leading the Swiss in the absence of world number one Roger Federer, drew first blood at the Plaza de Toros de Ribera bullring when he twice battled back from a set down to beat Nicolas Almagro 3-6 6-4 3-6 7-5 6-3.

Backed by the noisy, red and yellow-clad home support, Ferrer then fought off stiff resistance from the powerful, 56th-ranked Chiudinelli in the second set on the clay before completing a 6-2 7-6 6-1 victory.

"It was a very hard match," Ferrer told a news conference. "The result suggests it was easier than it actually was but in the second set above all it was very difficult."

FINELY BALANCED

Ferrer, ranked 16th in the world, is the only survivor from last year's Cup-winning team, with Rafael Nadal (3) and Fernando Verdasco (12) injured and Feliciano Lopez not selected. Juan Carlos Ferrero (14) withdrew with wrist and knee problems.

The three-day, best-of-five tie is finely balanced ahead of Saturday's doubles, when home pair Tommy Robredo and Marcel Granollers play Wawrinka, who won the Olympic doubles gold in Beijing with Federer, and Yves Allegro.

The Swiss are bidding to become the first team to beat the Spanish in 19 home ties stretching back to a defeat by Brazil in 1999. Spain also won the title in 2000, 2004 and 2008.

France's Monfils earned his first Davis Cup point in Toulon when he fought past tenacious German Philipp Kohlschreiber 6-1 6-4 7-6 before Tsonga took four sets to beat Benjamin Becker.

"To win that game was a matter of honour because Kohlschreiber is a real fighter," Monfils said.

"It was one of my best matches of the season," he added. "I'm very happy with the way I moved on the court and the way I controlled the match and, of course, very happy to bring the point for France for the first time."

Sweden's Robin Soderling beat Eduardo Schwank 6-1 7-6 7-5 in the opening singles in Stockholm to put the hosts ahead against Argentina before Leonardo Mayer levelled by recovering from a set down to beat Joachim Johansson in four.

Ivo Karlovic and Marin Cilic gave Croatia a 2-0 advantage over Ecuador in Varazdin, beating Lapentti brothers Nicolas and Giovanni in five and three sets respectively.

After finding out he was playing an hour before the start, Russia's Igor Kunitsyn rallied to defeat Somdev Devvarman 6-7 7-6 6-3 6-4 in the opening singles in Moscow and Mikhail Youzhny followed up with a straight sets demolition of Rohan Bopanna.

Kunitsyn, drafted in after the injured Igor Andreev pulled out, said: "It was a surprise for me and there is no way you can prepare yourself with just an hour to go before your match."

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Hamilton happier than ever as season approaches

Published>Sat, Mar 06 10 05:03 AM

Whatever happens in next weekend's Formula One season-opener in Bahrain, Lewis Hamilton expects to keep on smiling.

Re-united with his girlfriend, pop singer Nicole Scherzinger, and with a McLaren that has looked quick in testing after a difficult 2009 season, the 25-year-old says he is happier than ever.

"Regardless of what happens next week, or in the first few races, I'm in the happiest place, just in my life," said the 2008 world champion, after a karting 'contest' this week in which he and new world champion team mate Jenson Button effortlessly put reporters in their place.

"I feel fit, happy with the direction I'm taking, happy in my personal relationship," he added, relaxed and smiling in contrast to the tired and sweaty group around him.

"Nothing is perfect but it's a work in progress, it's all going in the same direction, so I'm really good."

Hamilton, joking with Button like the best of friends but fiercely competitive the second he stepped behind the wheel, said his team mate's arrival at McLaren had also unexpectedly opened doors.

"Just working with him, he is probably one of the easiest people I know to get on with," he explained.

"He is very professional, I was blown away by how polite he is and well-mannered, which shows he has real good family values.

"I knew he was like that before, but when you spend quality time with someone, you get to see perhaps a bit more," added the Briton, who has never been beaten over the course of a championship by any team mate.

"For example, it might be opening a door for you, something small like that. I don't know many drivers who do that. I try to be a gentleman, but perhaps more to women."

WILD SIDE

Hamilton revealed this week that he would be seeking a new manager, with his father focusing on other business interests. He said however that he was not about to break loose.

"I am who I am, I don't think anybody has stopped me from being who I wanted to be," he said. "Maybe I might buy one car this year, who knows. But that's not being wild.

"I've still the same girl, I race for the same team and I've still the same dedication and determination. I don't think you should change something that works. My style and my approach has worked for me always and I intend to keep it that way."

The bookmakers favour Hamilton over Button and he does not expect to lose either, although he said his experiences from last year had made him stronger and better equipped mentally.

His happiness was another weapon.

"When you are happy you win races," he said. "I remember, some races I've won, I've been in the happiest mood, and nothing could touch it. It's a great feeling when you do that, so hopefully it will contribute.

"I'm just going to do the best job I can, and he is going to push his hardest," added Hamilton when asked whether he could keep Button in his mirrors.

"He will want to be ahead of me, and vice versa, but out of the car we will be chilled.

"It's difficult to say who is quickest at the moment, but I guess we will see next week, won't we?"

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Peru champions beset by bad results and suspensions

Published Sat, Mar 06 10 04:43 AM

Being bottom of Peru's first division is one of several problems besetting champions Universitario, including a four-match suspension for coach Juan Reynoso for insulting a referee.

Universitario have also been banned by the ADFP, which groups the 16 top-flight clubs, for favouring a different airline from the one which sponsors the championship and provides teams with air travel to matches.

Reynoso was suspended by the Peruvian Football Federation (FPF) for insulting the referee in Tuesday's 2-1 defeat by Sporting Cristal, who scored a controversial winner after a player appeared to handle the ball.

It was Universitario's third defeat in three matches in the league as they concentrate their efforts on the Libertadores Cup, the top South American club competition in which they finished runners-up in 1972.

"The U", as they are popularly known, said they would appeal against the ADFP suspension which will prevent them from playing Total Chalaco in a league game this weekend.

"We're not going to accept taking a step back on this," said the club's sporting director, former Peru defender German Leguia.

"We'll go to the federation (FPF) which is the highest body (in Peru). FIFA won't accept that a team should be removed from a championship," he told America Noticias.

The champions struck a deal with Star Peru to fly them to away matches and wore the airline's logo on their shirts in Tuesday's game. The ADFP has a deal with LAN Peru, a subsidiary of Chile's LAN.

Universitario midfielder Rainer Torres said: "I hope the appeal prospers because we want to play to regain our confidence and, at last, take our first points."

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Holders Spain level with Swiss in Davis Cup

Published>Sat, Mar 06 10 02:03 AM

Spain's David Ferrer dispatched Marco Chiudinelli in straight sets to level the depleted champions' Davis Cup first-round tie against Switzerland at 1-1 in Logrono on Friday.

Seven of the eight World Group matches were under way around Europe, with the start of Chile's tie at home to Israel delayed to Saturday because of the disruption caused by last weekend's deadly earthquake.

Russia carved out a 2-0 advantage over visiting India, victories for Gael Monfils and Jo-Wilfried Tsonga put France 2-0 up at home to Germany, and last year's finalists Czech Republic opened up a 2-0 lead in Belgium.

The Swiss are bidding to become the first team to beat the Spanish in 19 home ties stretching back to a defeat by Brazil in 1999. Spain also won the title in 2000, 2004 and 2008.

Stanislas Wawrinka, leading the Swiss in the absence of world number one Roger Federer, drew first blood at the Plaza de Toros de Ribera bullring when he twice battled back from a set down to beat Nicolas Almagro 3-6 6-4 3-6 7-5 6-3.

Ferrer, ranked 16th in the world, is the only survivor from last year's Cup-winning team, with Rafael Nadal (3), Fernando Verdasco (12) and Juan Carlos Ferrero (14) hit by injuries.

Backed by the noisy, red and yellow-clad home support, he fought off stiff resistance from the powerful, 56th-ranked Chiudinelli in the second set on the clay before completing a 6-2 7-6 6-1 victory.

The three-day, best-of-five tie is finely balanced ahead of Saturday's doubles, when home pair Tommy Robredo and Marcel Granollers play Wawrinka, who won the Olympic doubles gold in Beijing with Federer, and Yves Allegro.

REAL FIGHTER

France's Monfils earned his first Davis Cup point in Toulon when he fought past tenacious German Philipp Kohlschreiber 6-1 6-4 7-6 before Tsonga took four sets to beat Benjamin Becker.

"To win that game was a matter of honour because Kohlschreiber is a real fighter," Monfils said.

"It was one of my best matches of the season," he added. "I'm very happy with the way I moved on the court and the way I controlled the match and, of course, very happy to bring the point for France for the first time."

Elsewhere, Sweden's Robin Soderling beat Eduardo Schwank 6-1 7-6 7-5 in the opening singles in Stockholm to put the hosts ahead against Argentina.

Ivo Karlovic came through in five sets to give Croatia the advantage over Ecuador in Varazdin and Serbia moved 1-0 ahead against the United States in Belgrade thanks to Viktor Troicki's hard-fought 7-6 6-7 7-5 6-4 victory over John Isner.

World number two Novak Djokovic is due to play Sam Querrey later on Friday.

After finding out he was playing an hour before the start, Russia's Igor Kunitsyn rallied to defeat Somdev Devvarman 6-7 7-6 6-3 6-4 in the opening singles in Moscow and Mikhail Youzhny followed up with a straight-sets demolition of Rohan Bopanna.

Kunitsyn, drafted in after the injured Igor Andreev pulled out, said: "It was a surprise for me and there is no way you can prepare yourself with just an hour to go before your match."

Source: Web Search

Arsenal's Wenger defends criticism of Shawcross tackle

Published Sat, Mar 06 10 01:03 AM

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has defended the comments he made about Stoke City defender Ryan Shawcross whose tackle broke midfielder Aaron Ramsey's leg in two places last Saturday.

He had called Shawcross's challenge on the 19-year-old Wales international "horrendous and unacceptable" in the immediate aftermath of the Premier League match.

Asked about his reaction, a highly animated Wenger stood by his comments when he met reporters at a news briefing before the league game with Burnley on Saturday.

"I stand by what I said 100 percent," Wenger said.

"I knew exactly what would happen the whole week, that was quite easy to predict. I am sitting here now like I am in a tribunal. What do I have to defend? Is it a football game or something else?

"I can understand people want to be committed against us, and I have no problem with that.

"I love the commitment of the English game. I don't want to change that and it makes the game even more attractive, but high commitment demands fair intention as well."

Wenger said he did not want tackling removed from the game, explaining: "I admire a great technical tackle as much as a creative pass.

"A tackle is an art in itself -- that means you always have your eye on the ball, never with a high foot, in your tackle you can already make a pass.

"To close your eyes and go in too physical, that does not mean it is intention, but there is danger. Tackling is an art you do not want to get out of the game.

"It is not Arsenal against the rest of the world. What I say here is valid for the Arsenal players as well.

"I want the Arsenal players to go into tackles like everybody else, to go into tackles and be committed.

"What I say is not just for Stoke or Arsenal players, it is for everybody. I defend football. It is not that we are apart from anybody else. We are the same.

"I am continuing to defend the values that I believe are important for our club and football. That doesn't mean we are angels and everyone else is the devil. It is for everybody."

Shawcross, 22, has since apologised to Ramsey for the challenge and asked to visit him.

He left the field in tears after being dismissed for the challenge in last week's match, which Arsenal won 3-1 at the Britannia Stadium. Ramsey is not expected to play again for possibly nine months.

Source: Web Search

German coach unhappy with boys despite win

Published>Sat, Mar 06 10 12:33 AM

New Delhi, March 5 (IANS) After a hard fought 4-3 victory against Argentina, German coach Markus Weise said his team will have to lift their performance if they are looking for a hat-trick of World Cup titles here.

'I am happy with the result but not with the performance. Argentina applied a lot of pressure on us. They played well and we are lucky to escape with a win. We were poor in the second half and there were phases when cracks were visible in our defence,' said Weise.

With the victory, Germany moved to the second spot in the Pool A and will face arch-rivals, the Netherlands Sunday at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium.

Asked if he was expecting a tough fight from Argentina, Weise said: 'We were expecting a tough fight. It was never easy for us. But I am happy to walk away with six points,' he said.

Weise was also critical of his goalkeeper Tim Jessulat.

'Our goalkeeper (Tim Jessulat) was a bit off colour. He had a bad day in the office and this is normal in the game,' he said.

Argentina coach Pablo Lombi, however, was a satisfied man.

'Today we put up a great show against the Germans. I wish the players had concentrated a bit more in converting the chances that came their way. It is never easy to come back against the Germans,' he said.

Agentine captain Rey Lucas felt their gutsy performance against Germany will surely boost the confidence of his boys.

'Germany are a top team and it was an incredible performance by the boys against them. It will surely help them to grow in confidence,' he said.

Source: Web Search

Hockey World Cup: Pool A standings

Published>Fri, Mar 05 10 11:53 PM

New Delhi, March 5 (IANS) Standings in Pool A after the sixth day in the Hockey World Cup at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium here Friday.

Teams P W D L F A PT

Netherlands 3 3 0 0 12 1 9

Germany 3 2 1 0 12 5 7

New Zealand 3 2 0 1 6 6 6

Korea 3 1 1 1 5 5 4

Argentina 3 0 0 3 4 9 0

Canada 3 0 0 3 2 15 0

P: matches played, W: won, D: drawn, L: lost, F: goals for, A: goals against, PT: total points

Source: Web Search

Germany escape with a 4-3 win against Argentina

Published>Fri, Mar 05 10 11:33 PM

New Delhi, March 5 (IANS) Defending champions Germany survived a scare from lowly Argentina before pulling off a thrilling 4-3 win in a Pool A match of the Hockey World Cup here Thursday.

Germany's Martin Zwicker (5th minute) scored capping a brilliant tie-up with veteran Matthias Witthaus, but Argentina paid back the next minute in style through Martin Lucas Vila.

Zwicker (14th) then converted a penalty corner and Witthaus (23rd) increased the lead. Argentina refused to be dictated and Matias Enrique Paredes (34th) made it 3-2 through a penalty-corner goal.

Germany began the second half with purpose, and Martin Haner slotted in the 51st minute. Argentina narrowed the margin four minutes later through Pedro Ibarra. The Argentine then raided the German defence in waves, but goalkeeper Tomas Juan Espinosa's exceptional effort under the bar saved the day for them.

Germany now have seven points from three matches and are behind the Netherlands who have nine points. But their young side have still a long way to go if they are looking to win a hat-trick of titles here. They were held 2-2 by South Korea in the first match and despite pounding Canada 6-0 in the second, they were far from being consistent.

'We are happy with the result but not with the performance. Argentina played really well and it is going to be a tough match against the Netherlands,' said German coach Markus Weise.

Weise should thank Espinosa for not allowing Argentina the equaliser in the final minutes of the match.

Argentina, ranked 14th, will be cursing their fate as they came close to upsetting the World No.1 side.

Though the handful of spectators were treated to an excellent match and saw some of the best goals scored in the tournament so far.

The first goal set the mark with Zwicker and Witthaus playing a 1-2 and the former slamming in.

Vila then scored a solo, scooping the ball over goalkeeper Tim Jessulat for the equaliser.

There were also some brilliant set-pieces on show. Germany's second goal from Zwicker was nicely executed as he dived from the right corner to deflect in a drag-flick.

The experienced Matthias showed his class as he foxed two defenders in close range, took a turn to make space and slammed the ball from the top of the circle.

The second half saw Argentina stepping up the pressure but it was Germany who increased the lead to 4-2 through Haner.

Ibarra pulled one back for Argentina before German defence thwarted their moves.

Source: Web Search

Weise not happy with performance but praises goalkeeper

Published Fri, Mar 05 10 11:23 PM

New Delhi, Mar 5 (PTI) Germany coach Markus Weise today credit his side''s narrow 4-3 win over Argentina in the hockey World Cup to good performance of their custodian Tim Jessulat. Weise said as expected his boys had to play out of their skin to register the win against Argentina at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium here. "I am not happy with the performance but I am happy with the result. In the second half we lost our way. Our goalkeeper (Tim Jessulat) saved the day for us, otherwise the result of the match would have been different," he told reporters. "We expected a tough fight from the Argentines. Prior to this match, we had to good games," he added. Germany captain Maximillian Muller agreed with his coach and said, "I am happy with the victory but not so happy with the way we played. We have to improve against the Netherlands if we want to beat them. Experienced German player Matthias Witthaus said the Germans had a bad day in office today. "It''s is not our best game, but sometimes you have a bad day. But we are happy with the three points. It brought us closer towards a semifinal spot," he said. Argentina coach Pablo Lombi said he side displayed a lion-hearted performance against the Germans. "We played well but we need to concentrate more on our attack and defence. It was a very close match," Lombi said. "I am happy with the boys performance but not happy with the result," he added.

Source: Web Search

Davis Cup: Somdev's best not enough, Russia 2-0 up

Published>Fri, Mar 05 10 11:13 PM

Moscow, March 5 (IANS) Somdev Devvarman came close to giving India a point but the Russians wrapped up both the opening day singles to take a 2-0 lead in the first round of Davis Cup World Group at Luzhniki arena here Friday.

While Somdev lost a hot fought four set battle 7-6(6), 6-7(4), 3-6, 4-6 to last minute inclusion Igor Kunitsyn, Rohan Bopanna could only show flashes of brilliance in his 4-6, 2-6, 3-6 defeat by World No. 13 Mikhail Youzhny.

Now, it is left to the famed pair Leander Paes and Mahesh Bhupathi to keep India alive in the tie when they take on Teimuraz Gabashvili and Kunitsyn Saturday. But the Russians could change the combination in view of Kunitsyn's unexpected appearance in the singles as he had to come in for injured Igor Andreev at the last minute.

Somdev, who played a key role in India's march to the World Group after 11 years, was a set and 5-2 up against Kunitsyn before losing in three hours and 35 minutes.

'I had him where I wanted to and we both played a pretty good first set,' said Somdev. 'Things started to go my way, but I wasn't able to close it out as I would have liked to.'

Kunitsyn stepped in after Andreev pulled out with a left knee injury. Andreev himself came in for World. No.6 Nikolay Davydenko who was was out with a left-wrist injury.

'It was a surprise for me and there is no way you can prepare yourself with just an hour to go before your match,' said Kunitsyn. 'We are used to having at least one day, or 12 hours to prepare.'

Kunitsyn, who beat Somdev in both his previous two meetings on the ATP tour, was in danger of going two sets down when he was up against a second service break to go 0-4, but he survived. A couple of bad line calls did not help the Indian's cause either and his game went to pieces as the Russian charged the net often to unsettle him.

The 107th-ranked Russian came out with power-packed groundstrokes on the hard court indoors. His stunning net play found no answer from the 128th-ranked Indian. Yet, the match could have gone to the fifth set if only Somdev had steadied himself a bit and tried to pass the Russian with his powerful groundstrokes.

Somdev was clearly the better player when the two fought from the baseline, but once Kuitsyn started coming to the net, the tide has turned. The Indian could win only 44 percent of his net points as compared to Kunitsyn's 74 percent.

In the last two sets, the Russian's game plan was simple, to force Somdev out of the court and come into volley with ease.

The Indian put up a gusty show in winning the first set tie-break after trading breaks in the sixth and seventh games. He then cruised to a 3-0 lead and had a break point in the fourth game which he squandered in the second set. Then the two traded breaks in the fifth and the sixth game and Somdev was serving for set at 5-2, but could not hold his nerve and that gave Kunitsyn fresh life.

With the set back on serve, the second tie-break of the match saw the Russian take control of the things from the start, leading 4-0, before prevailing without any hiccups.

Both the players served well in the third set before Somdev's backhand down the line at breakpoint in the eighth game was ruled out, leaving the Russian to serve out the set. An angry Somdev protested but to no avail and Russia was soon 2-1 sets ahead.

Now there was no stopping Kunitsyn. The Indian was a breakpoint up in the sixth game but Russian with sheer power saved it and held his serve.

Sensing it to be his last chance, Somdev once again attacked Kunitsyn serve in the eighth game that went to four deuces before the Russian held it again. Kunitsyn then upped the ante in the ninth game to force the Indian into errors to drop his serve and with it evaporated his chances of revival.

Kunitsyn then served out the set and match, Somdev managing to save only one match point after being down 0-40.

'It was an exciting match,' said Kunitsyn. 'It's the first time I ever opened a Davis Cup tie for Russia, the first time I ever played a live singles match, it was a day of first's for me.'

The 416th-ranked Bopanna, who is now essentially a doubles player at the circuit, was clearly fighting a losing battle but to his credit he did come with some spells of spectacular play.

With a little luck he could have broken Youzny's serve as he had three breakpoints. In the ultimate analysis the Indian's string of unforced errors let him down. These errors overshadowed his good serving. He fired nine aces.

Source: Web Search

Somdev should have won the first singles: Misra

Published Fri, Mar 05 10 10:47 PM

Moscow, Mar 5 (PTI) India''s Davis Cup captain S P Misra today said had Somdev Devvarman kept patience in the opening rubber, things could have been different in the World Group first round tie against Russia. India conceded a 2-0 lead as both Somdev and Rohan Bopanna lost their singles matches on the opening day of the tie. A visibly dejected Misra said Somdev should have won the first singles match after being in a dominant position against Igor Kunitsyn. "He should have won that match. He was in hurry to close it and committed some tactical errors. The other guy gradually grew in confidence and Somdev started losing easy game points. His passing shots were also not good after losing the second set," Misra told PTI. "We all are very disappointed. We were close to 1-0 lead and Bopanna could have played differently against (Mikhail) Youzhny had Somdev won that match," Misra added. Misra also said that luck also did not favour Somdev since some line calls went against him. The non-playing captain is hoping that Leander Paes and Mahesh Bhupathi will win tomorrow''s doubles rubber to keep India''s hopes alive. "On paper we are strong in doubles and are expected to win. Let''s see what happens." PTI AT

Source: Web Search

Juergen Klinsmann eyes return to coaching

Published>Fri, Mar 05 10 10:43 PM

Juergen Klinsmann said he was looking forward to getting back into coaching and optimistic about the right offer coming along after this year's World Cup.

The former Germany coach, who will work as a TV analyst for Germany's RTL network in South Africa, told reporters on Friday he was prepared to wait for the right opportunity.

"I'm not impatient," said Klinsmann, who also coached Bayern Munich before being sacked near the end of the 2008-09 Bundesliga season with his team lying third in the standings.

"I'm definitely going to get back into coaching and it's quite possible there'll be something challenging in store after the World Cup," Klinsmann, 45, said.

"When it's part of your genetic make-up, you're always thinking about how this or that coaching job might develop."

Klinsmann, who led Germany to third place in the 2006 World Cup, has studied Spanish, sports medicine and other developments in coaching.

"That's the nice part about being between jobs is you have the time to work on developing new skills and learning more," said the former Germany striker, who moved with his family back to California last year.

NO REGRETS

Klinsmann said he had no regrets about taking the Bayern Munich job in 2008.

"It was an important life experience," he said. "I learned a lot from the experience and it will help me down the line."

As Germany coach he went from being a novice who made the German federation nervous with his unorthodox methods to a national hero when he led his unfancied team to their surprise third-place finish in the World Cup.

Klinsmann drew praise and criticism for his team's attacking style of play, hiring fitness trainers and a team psychologist and including young untested players.

Klinsmann warned against reading too much into Germany's 1-0 loss in a friendly against Argentina on Wednesday.

"It's not going to have any effect on what happens in three months," he said. "There'll be plenty of time for the team to prepare for the World Cup. Right now a lot of players are caught up in the Bundesliga and Champions League end-run stress."

Klinsmann said Germany had a great advantage in having so many players in their mid-20s with around 50 caps.

"All the experience is a huge plus," he said. "And besides all that Germany are always a tournament team."

Source: Web Search

AI draw with Sporting in listless clash

Published Fri, Mar 05 10 10:17 PM

Mumbai, Mar 5 (PTI) Local outfit Air India and relegation-threatened Sporting Clube de Goa drew 1-1 in a listless 14th round I-League encounter at the Cooperage football ground here today. A 34th minute strike by Allan Dias for the airmen was cancelled during add-on time in the first half itself by Nicholas Rodrigues, who converted a penalty. The draw left cellar outfit Sporting, who are yet to win a game, on six points and AI with 15 points in the 11th spot. AI custodian Kunal Sawant brought off two good saves in close succession to foil Sporting defender Chinta Chandrasekhar and midfielder Angelo Colaco, the latter one a rebound effort, later in the half. AI took the lead through the effort of throw-in specialist Uttam Singh which was relayed to Dias by striker N D Opara for the former to slot into the goal. Sporting got the chance to restore parity in injury time when AI Peter Odafe handled the ball inside the box and the resultant spot-kick was converted by medio Rodrigues. The second half was dull and boring with neither team looking capable of scoring.

Source: Web Search

Ghosal in semi-finals of Chennai Open squash

Published>Fri, Mar 05 10 09:53 PM

Chennai, March 5 (IANS) Fourth-seeded Saurav Ghosal of India entered the semi-finals of the PSA Chennai Open squash tournament, defeating Englishman Chris Simpson 11-7, 11-7, 11-13, 11-7 in 64 minutes here Friday.

In the semi-finals, the 29th-ranked Ghosal plays second-seeded Jonathan Kemp of England, while top seeded Malaysian Ong Beng Hee meets third seeded Egyptian Mohd.Ali Reda.

Meanwhile, World No.1 and top seed Nicol David of Malaysia expectedly qualified for the semi-final in the WISPA event and will take on seventh seed Kasey Brown (Australia) while second seed Jenny Duncalf (England) faces Rachael Grinham (Australia).

The results (quarter-finals):

PSA: 1-On Beng Hee (Malaysia) bt 7-Yann Perrin (France) 11-5, 11-8, 11-8 (41 mins); 3-Mohd Ali Reda (Egypt) bt 8-Alan Clyne (Scotland) 9-11, 11-6, 11-7, 11-5 (61 mins); 4-Saurav Ghosal (India) bt 6-Chris Simpson (England) 11-7, 11-7, 11-13, 11-7 (64 mins); 2-Jonathan Kemp (England) bt Laurance Delasaux (England) 11-9, 11-4, 11-7 (31 mins).

WISPA : 1-Nicol David (Malaysia) bt 8-Samantha Teran (Mexico) 11-9, 11-4, 12-10 (28 mins); 7-Kasey Brown (Australia) bt Jaclyn Haweks (New Zealand) 11-6, 8-11, 11-9, 11-4 (in 69 mins); 3-Rachel Grinham (Australia) bt 6-Camillee Serme (France) 11-4, 10-12, 11-3, 11-4 (40 mins); 2-Jenny Duncalf (England) bt 5-Laura Massaro (England) 12-10, 11-9, 11-9 (43 Mins).

Source: Web Search

Somdev's best not enough to stop Russia from taking lead

Published>Fri, Mar 05 10 09:33 PM

Moscow, March 5 (IANS) Somdev Devvarman failed to get third time lucky against Russia's Igor Kunitsyn, but not before India No. 1 put up a terrific fight in his four-set loss in the opening singles of the Davis Cup World Group first round at Luzhniki arena here Friday.

Somdev, who played a key role in India's march to the World Group after 11 years, was a set and 5-3 up against Kunitsyn before losing 7-6(6), 6-7(4), 3-6, 4-6 in three hours and 35 minutes.

India's No.2 Rohan Bopanna, who is at 416 on the ATP charts, will now take on World No. 13 Mikhail Youzhny in the second singles.

Kunitsyn stepped in at the last moment for an Igor Andreev, who pulled out with a left knee injury. Andreev himself came in for World. No.6 Nikolay Davydenko who was was out with a left-wrist injury.

Kunitsyn, who beat Somdev in both his previous two meetings on the ATP tour, was in danger of going two sets down when he was up against a second service break to go 0-4, but he survived. A couple of bad line calls did not help the Indian's cause either and his game went to pieces as the Russian charged the net often to unsettle him.

The 107th-ranked Russian came out with power-packed groundstrokes on the hard court indoors. His stunning net play found no answer from the 128th-ranked Indian. Yet, the match could have gone to the fifth set if only Somdev had steadied himself a bit and tried to pass the Russian with his powerful groundstrokes.

Somdev was clearly the better player when the two fought from the baseline, but once Kuitsyn started coming to the net, the tide has turned. The Indian could win only 44 percent of his net points as compared to Kunitsyn's 74 percent.

In the last two sets, the Russian's game plan was simple, to force Somdev out of the court and come into volley with ease.

The Indian put up a gusty show in winning the first set tie-break after trading breaks in the sixth and seventh games. He then cruised to a 3-0 lead and had a break point in the fourth game which he squandered in the second set. Then the two traded breaks in the fifth and the sixth game and Somdev was serving for set at 5-3, but could not hold his nerve and that gave Kunitsyn fresh life.

With the set back on serve, the second tie-break of the match saw the Russian take control of the things from the start, leading 4-0, before prevailing without any hiccups.

A set all, Somdev looked clearly upset over the loss of the second set and was broken straightaway in the third set. The diehard Indian supporters in the crowd tried to revive him and he did,too, by breaking back.

Both the players served well in the set before Somdev's backhand down the line at breakpoint in the eighth game was ruled out, leaving the Russian to serve out the set. An angry Somdev protested but to no avail and Russia was soon 2-1 sets ahead.

Now there was no stopping a confident Kunitsyn and his exemplary reflexes at the net stifled Somdev's chances of a fightback. The Indian was a breakpoint up in the sixth game but Russian with sheer power saved it and held his serve.

Sensing it to be his last chance, Somdev once again attacked Kunitsyn serve in the eighth game that went to four deuces before the Russian held it again. Kunitsyn then upped the ante in the ninth game to force the Indian into errors to drop his serve and with it evaporated his chances of revival.

Kunitsyn then served out the set and match, Somdev managing to save only one match point after being down 0-40.

Source: Web Search

Security is fantastic: Commonwealth Games chief

Published>Fri, Mar 05 10 09:13 PM

New Delhi, March 5 (IANS) Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) chief executive Mike Hooper Friday said the successful staging of the Commonwealth Shooting Championships and the ongoing Hockey World Cup will help reduce security fears among some of the participating nations for the October 3-14 Games.

'The chef-de-missions of all the 71 nations are arriving here next week and there will be presentations by the Delhi government, the Delhi Police about the security and other aspects,' Hooper told reporters on the sidelines of the Hockey World Cup here at the Major Dhyan Chand Stadium while cheering for his national team - New Zealand.

'I think the security has been fantastic. It's almost impossible to breach this kind of security ring.

'We have had a successful Commonwealth Shooting Championships which went off without any untoward accident. I think all reservations about the security will be put to rest once the delegates come over to Delhi and have a look at the progress themselves,' Hooper added.

The New Zealander said the participating teams had reservations before coming for the World Cup, but after arriving here all their doubts have been dispelled.

'Yes, there were players and teams which had a few reservations about the security here. But ever since the teams have arrived here, I am sure no one has had any problem with the security,'' he said.

Source: Web Search

Tiger Woods turns down Paddy Power sponsorship offer

Published Fri, Mar 05 10 09:03 PM

Tiger Woods has turned down a $75 million sponsorship offer from Paddy Power, the Irish bookmaker said on Friday, adding it would make an improved offer to the golfer.

The 14-times major champion winner was dumped by sports drink brand Gatorade last week, the third major corporate sponsor to abandon the American since details of his adulterous affairs surfaced late last year.

The Dublin-based company said its initial offer to Woods, who was estimated to have earned $100 million annually in endorsement deals before taking an indefinite break from golf in December, covered a five-year period.

Woods did not set a date for his return to competition when he spoke to media last month for the first time since the scandal over his private life erupted.

Paddy Power lost 1.5 million euros ($2.04 million) by paying out to those who had gambled on Woods after just 36 holes of last year's U.S. PGA Championship, which the world No.1 eventually lost to South Korea's Yang Yong-eun.

Source: Web Search

Netherlands decimate Canada 6-0

Published>Fri, Mar 05 10 08:53 PM

New Delhi, March 5 (IANS) The Netherlands decimated Canada 6-0 to win their third match on the trot in Pool A of the Hockey World Cup here Friday.

After a goalless first half, the Netherlands came into their element in the latter session to hammer goals one after the other as Canada looked all at sea against the wave of Dutch attacks at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium here.

Taeke Taekema converted two penalty corners to take his tally to six in the World Cup.

Rogier Hofman also scored two goals, while Ronald Brower and Rob Reckers struck one apiece for Netherlands, who now lead the group with nine points.

Source: Web Search

New Zealand stay alive, beat Korea 2-1: World Cup Hockey

Published>Fri, Mar 05 10 08:47 PM

New Delhi, March 5 (IANS) A resolute New Zealand defeated Korea 2-1 in a Pool A match to stay in contention for a semi-final berth in the Hockey World Cup here Friday.

For New Zealand, Andrew Hayward (4th minute) converted a penalty corner while Dean Couzins (22nd) scored through a penalty stroke.

Koreans, who wasted as many as seven penalty corners, pulled one back as Nam Yong Lee converted a penalty stroke just before the final hooter.

The Black Sticks now have two victories from three matches and took their points tally to six. Asian champions Korea, after putting up an impressive performance to split points with defending champions Germany in the first match, are on four points from three outings.

Korea managed full points in their evenly contested second match against Argentina, thanks to a last-minute penalty-corner conversion, and were hoping for a similar turn of fortune against New Zealand.

Korea, after conceding two goals in the first half, quickened the pace after the change of ends, but the New Zealand defence thwarted their moves. Korea earned six penalty corners in the second half but could score from none with goalkeeper Kyle Pontifex making some brilliant stops.

But the one that came in the 63rd minute when Pontifex denied Korean skipper Seo Jong Ho proved crucial as the Koreans were making relentless forays in the last few minutes.

Before that New Zealand could have swelled the tally through a fast couter-attack but Nicholas Haig after latching on to a pass by Shea Mcaleese's failed to put it across.

Korea after failing with their seventh penalty corner got a penalty stroke and Yong Nam Lee, who scored the all-important goal against Argentina, finally got one past Pontefix.

But by then it was too late for Korea.

Source: Web Search

Davis Cup - Russia lead India 1-0

Published Fri, Mar 05 10 08:43 PM

REUTERS - Davis Cup world group first round scores between Russia and India in Moscow on Friday.

Igor Kunitsyn (Russia) beat Somdev Devvarman (India) 6-7(6)

7-6(4) 6-3 6-4

Russia lead India 1-0

Source: Web Search

New Zealand stay alive, beat Korea 2-1: World Cup Hockey

Published>Fri, Mar 05 10 08:33 PM

New Delhi, March 5 (IANS) A resolute New Zealand defeated Korea 2-1 in a Pool A match to stay in contention for a semi-final berth in the Hockey World Cup here Friday.

For New Zealand, Andrew Hayward (4th minute) converted a penalty corner while Dean Couzins (22nd) scored through a penalty stroke.

Koreans, who wasted as many as seven penalty corners, pulled one back as Nam Yong Lee converted a penalty stroke just before the final hooter.

The Black Sticks now have two victories from three matches and took their points tally to six. Asian champions Korea, after putting up an impressive performance to split points with defending champions Germany in the first match, are on four points from three outings.

Korea managed full points in their evenly contested second match against Argentina, thanks to a last-minute penalty-corner conversion, and were hoping for a similar turn of fortune against New Zealand.

Korea, after conceding two goals in the first half, quickened the pace after the change of ends, but the New Zealand defence thwarted their moves. Korea earned six penalty corners in the second half but could score from none with goalkeeper Kyle Pontifex making some brilliant stops.

But the one that came in the 63rd minute when Pontifex denied Korean skipper Seo Jong Ho proved crucial as the Koreans were making relentless forays in the last few minutes.

Before that New Zealand could have swelled the tally through a fast couter-attack but Nicholas Haig after latching on to a pass by Shea Mcaleese's failed to put it across.

Korea after failing with their seventh penalty corner got a penalty stroke and Yong Nam Lee, who scored the all-important goal against Argentina, finally got one past Pontefix.

But by then it was too late for Korea.

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Davis Cup - Russia lead India 1-0

Published Fri, Mar 05 10 08:23 PM

REUTERS - Davis Cup world group first round scores between Russia and India in Moscow on Friday.

Igor Kunitsyn (Russia) beat Somdev Devvarman (India) 6-7(6)

7-6(4) 6-3 6-4

Russia lead India 1-0

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Pakistan need big win over South Africa in World Cup

Published>Fri, Mar 05 10 08:03 PM

New Delhi, March 5 (IANS) With their hopes of a semi-final place receding fast, Pakistan need to force a big win as they take on the weakest Pool B side South Africa in the Hockey World Cup here at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium Saturday.

Like their sub-continental cousins India, Pakistan first have to win both their remaining games to keep alive their chances, which would also depend on the results of other games in the pool.

Having conceded 22 goals without earning a single point in their three games, South Africa have turned out to be the favourite whipping boys in the tournament and provide a good opportunity to Pakistan to find their bearings after the 2-5 defeat against England in an exciting but ill-tempered game Thursday.

England now top the pool with nine points, having won all their matches, followed by while Australia and Spain with six each. Pakistan, like India, are on three points but the hosts occupy the fourth slot on better goal difference.

For Pakistan, the road ahead would be anything but smooth, as what looks like a relatively easy game against the African team would be followed by the match against strong title contenders, Australia, who have been on a song after the shock defeat by England in the opener.

For Pakistan, forward Shakeel Abbasi has sparkled in the Cup, and would have to take an extra load on the morrow to ensure an emphatic victory for the four-time winners. They lost to India 1-4 in the opener before getting past Spain 2-1, and then went down to the in-form England.

With veteran penalty corner specialist Sohail Abbas a pale shadow of his old self, Pakistan have not quite delivered from set pieces, and this would be a major worrying factor for the team management.

Experienced striker Rehan Butt is another player who has done well only in patches, making the Pakistan attack line look less sharp.

Australia and Spain would meet in another big Pool B match Saturday.

After the World Cup record 12-0 win against South Africa, Australia would be looking to retain the momentum against the world number three Spain, who have almost shut the door on India's entry into the last four with a fluent 5-2 win.

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Adani Group to bid for IPL''s Ahmedabad franchise

Published Fri, Mar 05 10 07:47 PM

Ahmedabad, Mar 5 (PTI) Gujarat-based industrialist Gautam Adani, CMD of diversified Adani group, will bid for the Ahmedabad franchise of the Indian Premier League, according to sources. "We have decided to bid for the Ahmedabad team of IPL," a source from the group told PTI. Asked whether the group is going to bid jointly with any other company or individual, he said, "We will bid individually." Presently, there are eight IPL franchises and the IPL governing council will add two more from the 2011 season. "Under this Invitation to Tender, the winning bidders in respect of two locations in India will be granted the right to own and operate a new team which will compete in the IPL in each year from 2011 and onwards. From the 2011 IPL Season on wards it is therefore anticipated that the number of teams will increase from 8 to 10 teams," stated on IPL''s website. "Bids will be opened at 12 noon on Sunday, 7 March 2010. The winning bids will be announced in the manner set out in the invitation to tender," it added.

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Shiv Kapur, Muniyappa miss cut in Malaysian Open

Published Fri, Mar 05 10 07:33 PM

Kuala Lumpur, Mar 5 (PTI) Four Indian golfers, including Shiv Kapur and C Muniyappa, missed the halfway cut as just half of India''s 10-man contingent could complete their second round before bad light dropped early curtains on the Malaysian Open here today. Veteran Jyoti Randhawa withdrew after his nightmarish opening round of 77, while it was end of all roads for Muniyappa (145), Kapur (146) and Himmat Singh Rai (146), who fell outside the cut line set at 144. Anirban Lahiri, who had carded 75 yesterday, needs a three-under second round card to hang in for weekend action and the youngster was two-under after nine holes. Two-time winner Arjun Atwal, who had opened his campaign with an even-par 72, was at the provisional 15th place at three-under, with five more holes to go in his second round. Joining him was Kolkata pro SSP Chowrasia who was going even par after just two holes. Digvijay Singh was going two-under overall with 16 holes to go. Rising star Gaganjeet Bhullar (143) carded one-under 71 to lie tied 39th. Rahil Gangjee (143) to managed to complete his round but his three-over 75 was fgar from satisfactory from the Kolkata pro who had carded a brilliant four-under 68 in his opening round yesterday. Thailand''s Kiradech Aphibarnrat held a one-shot lead after negotiating 14 holes of his second round in five-under-par at the Kuala Lumpur Golf and Country Club to lead the USD two million event on nine-under-par.

Source: Web Search

McCullum expects Eden Park fireworks with Aussies

Published>Fri, Mar 05 10 07:25 PM

Auckland, Mar. 5 (ANI): Kiwi wicketkeeper-batsman Brendon McCullum has predicted further hostilities with Trans-Tasman rival Australia when the two teams clash in the second of five one-day internationals of the Chappell-Hadlee series to be played at the Eden Park here tomorrow night.

"Australia is playing New Zealand, so it's always going to be testy," McCullum said.

"Both teams are playing for their countries, trying to win for their countries, and we're always going to have banter out in the middle. What we saw [between Johnson and Styris] was two guys who are extremely passionate trying to pull through for their country," the Sydney Morning Herald quoted him, as adding.

"Both players had a talking to from the match referee, so that might suggest it went a little bit too far, it probably bordered on just stepping over the mark, but once we get out there again I'm sure the fight will come to the fore in both teams again.

"I don't think it's a bad thing, to be honest. It shows everyone watching how much it means to us."

Johnson was fined 60 per cent of his match fee, and Styris was docked 30 per cent of his, after both were charged by the ICC for two mid-pitch confrontations during New Zealand's victory at Napier. (ANI)

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McCullum expects Eden Park fireworks with Aussies

Published>Fri, Mar 05 10 07:23 PM

Auckland, Mar. 5 (ANI): Kiwi wicketkeeper-batsman Brendon McCullum has predicted further hostilities with Trans-Tasman rival Australia when the two teams clash in the second of five one-day internationals of the Chappell-Hadlee series to be played at the Eden Park here tomorrow night.

"Australia is playing New Zealand, so it's always going to be testy," McCullum said.

"Both teams are playing for their countries, trying to win for their countries, and we're always going to have banter out in the middle. What we saw [between Johnson and Styris] was two guys who are extremely passionate trying to pull through for their country," the Sydney Morning Herald quoted him, as adding.

"Both players had a talking to from the match referee, so that might suggest it went a little bit too far, it probably bordered on just stepping over the mark, but once we get out there again I'm sure the fight will come to the fore in both teams again.

"I don't think it's a bad thing, to be honest. It shows everyone watching how much it means to us."

Johnson was fined 60 per cent of his match fee, and Styris was docked 30 per cent of his, after both were charged by the ICC for two mid-pitch confrontations during New Zealand's victory at Napier. (ANI)

Source: Web Search

Capello to urge Bridge to reconsider decision to quit

Published>Fri, Mar 05 10 07:19 PM

London, Mar 5(ANI): England manager Fabio Capello is determined to talk defender Wayne Bridge out of international retirement and take him to this summer's World Cup in South Africa.

Capello still believes Bridge is the best left-back cover for injured Ashley Cole.

According to reports, he is refusing to take no for an answer after Bridge withdrew from his squad in the wake of the John Terry scandal that involved the Manchester City full back's former girlfriend, Vanessa Perroncel.

While the Italian was fairly happy with Leighton Baines against Egypt, he remains desperate to see Bridge and Cole as his left backs in South Africa.

Capello will maintain contact with Bridge, either directly or through members of his staff, in the hope that the player has a change of heart and decides he can deal with sharing a hotel with Terry for up to seven weeks.

"Fabio has not given up on Wayne Bridge," The Sun quoted an England insider, as saying.

"Unless Bridge categorically insists he will not go to the World Cup, the management will keep monitoring the situation," the insider added. (ANI)

Source: Web Search

Capello to urge Bridge to reconsider decision to quit

Published>Fri, Mar 05 10 07:19 PM

London, Mar 5(ANI): England manager Fabio Capello is determined to talk defender Wayne Bridge out of international retirement and take him to this summer's World Cup in South Africa.

Capello still believes Bridge is the best left-back cover for injured Ashley Cole.

According to reports, he is refusing to take no for an answer after Bridge withdrew from his squad in the wake of the John Terry scandal that involved the Manchester City full back's former girlfriend, Vanessa Perroncel.

While the Italian was fairly happy with Leighton Baines against Egypt, he remains desperate to see Bridge and Cole as his left backs in South Africa.

Capello will maintain contact with Bridge, either directly or through members of his staff, in the hope that the player has a change of heart and decides he can deal with sharing a hotel with Terry for up to seven weeks.

"Fabio has not given up on Wayne Bridge," The Sun quoted an England insider, as saying.

"Unless Bridge categorically insists he will not go to the World Cup, the management will keep monitoring the situation," the insider added. (ANI)

Source: Web Search

Chelsea's Bosingwa ruled out of World Cup

Published Fri, Mar 05 10 07:15 PM

Chelsea's Portuguese defender Jose Bosingwa will miss the rest of the domestic season and the World Cup because of a knee injury, the Premier League club said on Friday.

Bosingwa, who has not played for Chelsea since October, had arthroscopic surgery on his left knee in November and it was hoped he would be back after a three-month break.

"Bosingwa will be out for the season and have another operation, so that's him unfortunately and he'll miss the World Cup as well," Chelsea assistant manager Ray Wilkins told the club's website.

Source: Web Search

Chelsea's Bosingwa ruled out of World Cup

Published Fri, Mar 05 10 07:05 PM

Chelsea's Portuguese defender Jose Bosingwa will miss the rest of the domestic season and the World Cup because of a knee injury, the Premier League club said on Friday.

Bosingwa, who has not played for Chelsea since October, had arthroscopic surgery on his left knee in November and it was hoped he would be back after a three-month break.

"Bosingwa will be out for the season and have another operation, so that's him unfortunately and he'll miss the World Cup as well," Chelsea assistant manager Ray Wilkins told the club's website.

Source: Web Search

Hockey team''s commitment pleases Gill

Published Fri, Mar 05 10 06:49 PM

New Delhi, Mar 5 (PTI) The Indian hockey team maybe virtually out of the semifinal contention in the ongoing World Cup but Sports Minister MS Gill is happy with the commitment of the players. "I saw their matches and we played really well in the first match against Pakistan. We did not win the next two matches but I think win and loss are part and parcel of any game and they showed a lot of commitment," Gill told reporters after releasing his book "Himalayan Wonderland" here today. "This team has the talent and probably they need improvement. But I''m not disappointed at all. I''m rather content with their commitment. The boys gave their best and you cannot expect more," Gill said. The minister was also happy with the way local crowd have behaved in the World Cup so far. "I''m really happy to see the way entire crowd in the National Stadium stood to honour the Pakistani national anthem. Even the players showed a lot of sportsman spirit and played a game which was clean and fair. "After the match, some of the retired Pakistani players had no qualms admitting the Indians played better than them in that match. Both sides showed sportsman spirit and this is how it should be," Gill said. After the fairytale 4-1 win over Pakistan, India crashed to a morale-shattering 2-5 defeat against Australia before slumping to their second successive loss against Spain last night. More PTI AY AT

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England 'in the zone' having put Terry, Cole negativity behind: Lampard

Published>Fri, Mar 05 10 06:45 PM

London, Mar 5(ANI): England mid-fielder Frank Lampard reckons he and his team-mates are "in the zone" as they prepare for this summer's World Cup in South Africa.

The team were hit by John Terry losing the captaincy, lurid stories about his and Ashley Cole's private lives, the withdrawal of Wayne Bridge and injuries to Cole and Rio Ferdinand ahead of the victory over Egypt.

However, Lampard said the squad blocked out all those issues and will continue to do so between now and the summer.

"We put the negativity behind us. We showed a good togetherness and spirit on the pitch. People are concentrating on their football. We've tried to block out anything else. We're in the zone now and we have to take out the negativity because that can affect people," The Daily Express quoted Lampard, as saying.

"People can analyse things around the hotel but what's important is when you train, you train hard, and when you play, you play as a group. Against Egypt we showed, as we did throughout the qualifying campaign, that we play as a group. We have to carry on doing that to have any chance."

"I've been to a World Cup before and it was a bit of a disappointment. This time I want to enjoy it and be more of a success. We're not going around saying we will win it but, of ourse, that's the target," he added. (ANI)

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