Mendis spins out India for 291 in warm-up match

Published Thu, Jul 15 10 12:28 PM

Colombo, July 15 -- In great teams, when the bowling has an off day, the batting usually comes through to make up, or vice versa. In India's case, though, the batsmen, barring Gautam Gambhir at the top of the order and Yuvraj Singh low down, simply carried on the mediocre work done by the bowlers. Yuvraj Singh (118) and Gautam Gambhir's (89) added 143 for the fifth wicket, but India still fell well short of e follow-on mark of 364 to fold up for 291. The SL President's XI added 82 runs to their first-innings lead before declaring their innings at 514 for nine. As was the case during India's Test series in Sri Lanka two years ago, Ajantha Mendis (6-67) was the chief wrecker, destroying the middle order. When skipper Thilan Samaraweera threw the ball to Mendis in the 15th over, India were 67 for 2, with Virender Sehwag (18) and Rahul Dravid (11) wasting an opportunity to spend some valuable time at the crease before the first Test. Both succumbed to the swing of Chanaka Welegedara, who put himself ahead of his new-ball partner Dilhara Fernando for the second seamer's slot in Galle. Mendis got lucky off the second ball he bowled. It was his trademark carrom ball which rapped Sachin Tendulkar's back leg after the master failed to read it. Though the ball was clearly going to miss the off stump, the umpire upheld the appeal to boost Mendis's chances of forcing his way into the squad for the second Test after being left out for the first. In came VVS Laxman, who couldn't stem the rot either, edging two of the first four balls he faced. Since Laxman had played them with soft hands, both landed well ahead of the first slip. But Laxman ran out of luck in Mendis' third over when he edged one straight into Prasanna Jayawardene's gloves behind the wicket. Then came the brightest patch for the Indian team as Yuvraj and Gambhir put together a solid partnership. Though Gambhir was timing the ball soundly, he was lucky to have survived early on as he was given lives on 17, 22 and 36. Yuvraj, however, lofted Mendis over the long-on boundary on to the street soon after he took guard. From there on, the southpaw did not look back till he missed a slog sweep off offie Sachithra Senanayake. The knock confirmed that the No 6 slot belonged to Yuvraj, who was dropped from last month's Asia Cup on disciplinary grounds. However, just when Yuvraj and Gambhir were set to bat on till the end of day's play, Gambhir threw it away. Despite misreading the flight of a Mendis delivery, the opener went through with an on-drive. Upul Tharanga ran a few steps back to complete a neat catch.

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Rampant Oz pacers 'ruin' teammate Smith's leg-spin debut at Lord's

Published>Thu, Jul 15 10 12:18 PM

London, July 15(ANI): Australian leg-spinner Steve Smith's chances of scoring over Nathan Hauritz on debut were hindered by his speedster teammates on the second day of the opening Test against Pakistan at Lord's.

Smith was not required to bowl following sterling work of the Australian fast bowling brigade, as Pakistan were dismissed for 148 in reply to Australia's 253 in their first innings.

The 21-year-old leg-spinner's problem was that the innings only lasted 40.5 overs in overcast conditions and Australia's pace attack did more than an efficient job, The Sydney Morning Herald reports.

With Hauritz out with a foot injury, Smith has lost one of the four innings that he has to impress with the ball as Australia's only specialist spinner before the two-Test series in India in October.

All-rounder Shane Watson proved to be the surprise danger man with the ball, as he took a career-best 5-40 to give Australia a big advantage in what had been an even contest.

Watson took the wickets of Akmal brothers, Umar (five) and Kamran (0), Salman Butt (63), captain Shahid Afridi (31) and Danish Kaneria (14).

Ben Hilfenhaus (2-37) and Doug Bollinger (2-38) also did their bit, while Mitchell Johnson (1-31) was much better than his figures suggested.

The Aussies took a first-innings lead of 105, but Pakistan made a late bid to surge back into the Test when Umar Gul was on a hat-trick after removing Michael Clarke (12) and Mike Hussey (0).

At stumps Australia were 4-100 in their second innings, with Simon Katich unbeaten on 49, stretching their lead to 205 with three days to play.(ANI)

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England 'stupid' to rest Ashes 'secret weapon' Steven Finn: Warner

Published>Thu, Jul 15 10 12:08 PM

London, July 15(ANI): Australian batsman David Warner has branded England 'stupid' for keeping their secret weapon for the Ashes, fast bowler Steven Finn, under wraps during the five-match ODI series between the two sides.

Finn is completing the final stages of a six-week strength and conditioning programme instead of playing for his county Middlesex, but Warner believes that the decision could hit them hard during the Ashes Down Under, which begins in Brisbane in November.

"It's disappointing to see Finny rubbed out for six weeks when he has been bowling so well. England have just stuck him on a weights programme and made him run sprints - I find that pretty stupid," The Sun quoted Warner, as saying.

"They might as well wrap him up in cotton wool. I'm pretty sure he wants to play as well. If you're in form and then get told you're heaving a rest - well, I find it ridiculous what the ECB are doing," he added.

Finn, who was impressive in the debut home Test series against Bangladesh, disappeared from the international stage when the Aussies came in, and he will be out until the Test series against Pakistan, starting on July 29.

Explaining the team's decision, England skipper Andrew Strauss had earlier attributed 'the break' to Finn's 'uninspiring' record in one-day cricket and also to avoid risk of injury or burnout.

"His record in four-day cricket is better than in one-day cricket for Middlesex and obviously the workload is an issue as well. The thing with Finny is that he has come in, made an impact and shown what he is capable of," Strauss had said.

"That is exciting, but it is important we allow him a bit of time to develop. We don't need to rush things too much. He's going to have a long career and we will have to manage him to make sure it is a long career and not a short one," he added. (ANI)

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Aamer let off with a chat after Ponting incident

Published Thu, Jul 15 10 11:56 AM

London, July 15 -- Match referee Chris Broad has spoken to Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Aamer about his future conduct after he brushed against Ricky Ponting following his dismissal of the Australian captain at Lord's on Tuesday. Aamer, who collided with vice-captain Michael Clarke in a T20 international last week, was racing down the pitch to celebrate with his teammates after Ponting was smartly caught at short-leg for 26 on the first day of the first Test.

"Aamer is a young, exciting, talented player full of enthusiasm for this great sport and that is to be celebrated and nurtured," Broad said.

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Mendis mystery haunts Indians

Published>Thu, Jul 15 10 11:08 AM

Yuvraj Singh marked his return to form with a sparkling century but a batting disaster left India on their knees at close on an eventful second day of their warm-up game against Sri Lanka Board President's XI here on Wednesday.

Replying to the home team's mammoth first innings total of 514 for nine declared, the Indians were bundled out for 291 at the fag end of the day with mystery spinner Ajantha Mendis scalping six wickets at the Colts Cricket Club.

India were still trailing by 223 runs when stumps were drawn for the day and the home team has the option to enforce a follow-on when the third and final day begins. Mendis gave away just 67 runs in his 17.2 overs and denied India a chance to redeem their pride after having failed terribly while bowling.

Gambhir (89) missed out on his hundred but Yuvraj Singh scored a measured 118 as the duo shared a 143-run stand for the fifth wicket to save India from a precarious 80 for four.

But once the partnership was broken by Mendis, India just about managed to reach near the 300-run mark.

It was paceman Chanaka Welegedara who struck the early blows by accounting for dangerous Virender Sehwag (18) and dependable Rahul Dravid (11). Mendis then began weaving his spin magic and his first victim became Sachin Tendulkar (4), who fell leg before.

Stylish Laxman arrived at the crease but his stay was cut short as Mendis had him caught by Prasana Jayawardene behind the wicket, leaving India tottering at 80 for four.

Gambhir, who had been holding one end brilliantly, found an able ally in Yuvraj and the two left-handers rescued India with their terrific partnership.

Mendis was at it again as he separated the pair by scalping Gambhir. Young off-break bowler Sachithra Senanayake then struck two telling blows when he dismissed India skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni and ended Yuvraj's entertaining innings.

The left-hander, who came back to team after being dropped for poor form, hit six sixes and 11 fours in his 154 ball knock. Mendis then quicky wrapped up the innings by sending back Ishant Sharma and Pragyan Ojha.

Earlier, Sri Lanka resumed their innings at 432 for five and added 82 runs to their total before declaring. Overnight batsmen Dinesh Chandimal, who was on five, remained unconquered on 47. Pragyan Ojha added two more wickets to take his tally to five for 153.

Scoreboard

Sri Lanka BPXI's 1st innings:

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Fine chance for sprinter Cavendish in 11th stage

Published Thu, Jul 15 10 09:36 AM

Mark Cavendish will be the rider to watch as the Tour de France leaves the mountains for the flat in a 184.5-km 11th stage from Sisteron to Bourg les Valence on Thursday.

The Briton won the last two sprints before the Alps and while most of his rivals also made it up the mountains without too much damage, he fared unusually well in altitude.

"Cav did very well in the mountains. We were very happy and somewhat surprised that he was never in any trouble," said one of his Columbia team directors, Allan Peiper.

"He feels very well and his morale is high," he added.

A 13th career stage win in Bourg-les-Valence would make the Isle of Man rider the most successful sprinter in the Tour de France in the last two decades -- a feat achieved in only three years.

The sprinter with the most Tour stage victories is Frenchman Andre Darrigade, with 22 wins over 11 years.

But Cavendish should beware of American Tyler Farrar, whose broken wrist is feeling better, Norway's green jersey holder Thor Hushovd and Italy's Alessandro Petacchi, also winner of two stages.

The Briton took some comfort in Wednesday's 10th stage by beating them all in the peloton's sprint for ninth place.

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Beckham welcomes Henry move, Giggs another possibility

Published>Thu, Jul 15 10 12:56 AM

Thierry Henry's move to the New York Red Bulls is another boost for Major League Soccer and the profile of the sport in America, David Beckham said on Wednesday.

The former England captain told Reuters in an interview that he would also not rule out his veteran former Manchester United team mate Ryan Giggs ending up with him on the other side of the Atlantic as well.

France striker Henry, 32, announced earlier that he was leaving Barcelona for a multi-year deal in New York.

"I think it's great," said Beckham, speaking to Reuters Television after a worldwide interview with questioners from 18 countries on five continents through a live link-up on yahoo.com.

"Thierry joining the Red Bulls is great. I knew that he was interested in coming to the MLS because we've talked many a time about it and I've known for a while certain things," added the 35-year-old LA Galaxy midfielder.

"Thierry going there can only be good for the sport because it raises the profile, gets people talking about the MLS again and it makes it bigger.

Beckham, who has a record 115 caps for an England outfield player but missed the World Cup through injury, joined the Galaxy from Real Madrid in a mega-money move in 2007 and still has two years remaining on his contract.

Henry won the World Cup with France in 1998 and joined Barcelona from Arsenal in 2007, helping them win the Spanish, European and World Club titles.

GIGGS MOVE

"For a player of his calibre and a name that he's got around the world and in the sport, for him to be going to New York and playing for Red Bull is exceptional," said Beckham.

"I can't wait to play against him. We are good friends and get on well. He's an exceptional talent."

Giggs, 36, was quoted in the British media as saying he could end his career in America although he still had a year left at United and might be too old by then. Beckham disagreed.

"I think Ryan has looked after his body so well for many years and that's the reason why he's playing at such a high level still at his age," he said.

"I think if he feels like he can still do it, he will do that. It doesn't matter what age you are. If a Ryan Giggs and a Thierry Henry comes over and plays in the MLS it's great for the sport."

Beckham said the U.S. team's performances in the World Cup, reaching the last 16, had also have given soccer a boost in America.

"I think it did a lot. I heard 25 million watched the final in America, so that's saying something. For a country where soccer is not the number one sport, I think that's exceptional," he said. "The interest is there."

"They had some great players there and some great moments, scoring in the last minute to go through to the next round. Things like that. American people love the excitement and I think that helps the sport in the U.S."

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Australia v Pakistan - first test scoreboard

Published Thu, Jul 15 10 12:36 AM

REUTERS - Scoreboard at the close of the second day of the first test between Australia and Pakistan at Lord's, London on Wednesday.

Australia innings (229-9 overnight)

S. Watson b Mohammad Aamer 4

S. Katich c Kamran Akmal b Mohammad Asif 80

R. Ponting c Umar Amin b Aamer 26

M. Clarke lbw b Asif 47

M. Hussey not out 56

M. North b Asif 0

T. Paine c Kamran Akmal b Umar Gul 7

S. Smith lbw b Danish Kaneria 1

M. Johnson b Kaneria 3

B. Hilfenhaus b Aamer 1

D. Bollinger b Aamer 4

Extras (b 10, lb 2, w 2, nb 10) 24

Total (all out; 76.5 overs) 253

Fall of wickets: 1-8 2-51 3-171 4-174 5-174 6-206 7-208 8-213 9-222

Bowling: Mohammad Aamer 19.5-2-72-4 (w-2), Mohammad Asif 19-5-63-3, Umar Gul 17-3-32-1 (nb-9), Shahid Afridi 3-0-25-0, Danish Kaneria 18-7-49-2 (nb-1)

Pakistan innings:

Imran Farhat c Paine b Hilfenhaus 4

Salman Buttb b Watson 63

Azhar Ali c Paine b Hilfenhaus 16

Umar Amin c Paine b Johnson 1

Umar Akmal lbw b Watson 5

Kamran Akmal lbw b Watson 0

Shahid Afridi c Johnson b Watson 31

Mohammad Aamer c Paine b Bollinger 0

Umar Gul c Watson b Bollinger 7

Danish Kaneria c Smith b Watson 14

Mohammad Asif not out 4

Extras (lb 2, nb 1) 3

Total (all out; 40.5 overs) 148

Fall of wickets: 1-11 2-45 3-54 4-75 5-83 6-117 7-117 8-129 9-133

Bowling: D. Bollinger 11-3-38-2, B. Hilfenhaus 12-2-37-2 (nb-1), M. Johnson 10-2-31-1, S. Watson 7.5-1-40-5

Australia second innings

S. Watson c Imran Farhat b Mohammad Asif 31

S. Katich not out 49

R. Ponting lbw b Mohammad Asif 0

M. Clarke b Umar Gul 12

M. Hussey c Imran Farhat b Umar Gul 0

M. Johnson not out 2

Extras (lb 1, nb 5) 6

Total (4 wickets; 29.3 overs) 100

Fall of wickets: 1-61 2-73 3-97 4-97

Bowling: Mohammad Aamer 8.3-2-30-0, Mohammad Asif 9-2-30-2, Umar Gul 5-2-7-2 (nb-3), Danish Kaneria 7-1-32-0 (nb-2)

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Old Course 'mystique' here to stay, says Palmer

Published>Wed, Jul 14 10 11:38 PM

The relentless march of technology has proved no match for the iconic Old Course at St Andrews, according to Arnold Palmer.

"I think this golf course will weather the storm for many years to come," the 80-year-old, his voice occasionally faltering, told a news conference on the eve of the 150th anniversary British Open.

Torrential rain forced the cancellation of the Champions' Challenge involving former winners such as Palmer but his enthusiasm for the game and its most famous course showed no signs of being dampened.

"Sometimes you don't really need to make so many big changes to a golf course like this. The mystique of this golf course is the fact that you have to know where you're going, and you have to hit it in those spots," he added.

"What will they do to this golf course to make it different? Not a hell of a lot. They'll lengthen some more tees, they'll back the tees up, they'll make the greens a little bit faster and they'll do some things to make the fairways a little more magnificent. But it will be St Andrews," he said.

Palmer first played at the home of golf in 1960, and despite his prodigious talent for the game he still needed a local caddie to show him the way round the tricky links layout.

"It took me a while to begin to understand what this golf course and what the links golf was really all about. I had the best caddie that I've ever had in any championship with Tip Anderson," he said of the 1960 British Open where he finished second behind Australian Kel Nagle.

"He didn't know the shots that I was going to hit, but that had nothing to do with it. He knew where I had to go, and he told me. And I created the rest of it myself. But without him, I would have been lost," he added.

Nowhere is local knowledge more vital than on the 17th 'Road Hole', where the advance of technology prompted the Royal and Ancient to move the tee back 40 yards for this season's championship to make for an even more testing drive.

"George Lowe, that's who it was," Palmer said recalling a friend who would sit near the green at the revered par-four and speak to him.

"He was a man that kind of encouraged me to come here and play. He claimed that he helped me with my putting," he said to laughter.

"He never told me how to putt, he told me how good I putted. And after a few years it started to sink in that I was a pretty good putter."

The players here this week could do with similar friendly encouragement on a hole that has stood the test of time and is again primed to wreak havoc on the scorecards of the world's finest.

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Tour de France 10th stage result and standings

Published Wed, Jul 14 10 11:16 PM

REUTERS - Provisional result and overall standings after the 179-km 10th stage of the Tour de France from Chambery to Gap on Wednesday.

Stage result

1. Sergio Paulinho (Portugal / RadioShack) 5hrs 10mins 56secs

2. Vasil Kiryienka (Belarus / Caisse d'Epargne) same time

3. Dries Devenyns (Belgium / Quick-Step) +1:29"

4. Pierre Rolland (France / Bbox - Bouygues)

5. Mario Aerts (Belgium / Omega Pharma - Lotto) +1:33"

6. Maxime Bouet (France / AG2R) +3:20"

7. Nicolas Roche (Ireland / AG2R) +12:58"

8. Remi Pauriol (France / Cofidis) +13:57"

9. Mark Cavendish (Britain / HTC - Columbia) +14:19"

10. Alessandro Petacchi (Italy / Lampre)

11. Thor Hushovd (Norway / Cervelo)

Overall result

1. Andy Schleck (Luxembourg / Saxo Bank) 49h 00m 56s

2. Alberto Contador (Spain / Astana) +41"

3. Samuel Sanchez (Spain / Euskaltel) +2:45"

4. Denis Menchov (Russia / Rabobank) +2:58"

5. Jurgen Van den Broeck (Belgium/Omega Pharma-Lotto) +3:31"

6. Levi Leipheimer (U.S. / RadioShack) +3:59"

7. Robert Gesink (Netherlands / Rabobank) +4:22"

8. Luis Leon Sanchez (Spain / Caisse d'Epargne) +4:41"

9. Joaquim Rodriguez (Spain / Katusha) +5:08"

10. Ivan Basso (Italy / Liquigas) +5:09"

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Watson earns place on Lord's honours board

Published>Wed, Jul 14 10 10:56 PM

Australian all-rounder Shane Watson, primarily an opening batsman these days, earned a place on the Lord's honours board with his medium-pace bowling on Wednesday by running through the frail Pakistan batting.

Watson returned his best test figures of five for 40 from 7.5 overs as Pakistan succumbed for 148 from 40.5 overs in their first innings on the second day of the first test, a deficit of 105.

Only opener Salman Butt provided any sustained resistance with a composed 63 in nine minutes short of three hours, alternating resolute defence with wristy elegance before he was clean bowled by Watson.

Pakistan were uneasily placed at 75 for three, after the Tasmanian pair of Ben Hilfenhaus and debutant wicketkeeper Tim Paine had combined to dismiss Imran Farhat (4) and Azhar Ali (16), when Ricky Ponting invited Watson to bowl from the Nursery End.

The burly all-rounder responded by dismissing the two Akmal brothers in identical fashion within the space of four balls.

Umar Akmal fell lbw for five from the fourth ball of Watson's opening over, shuffling across his stumps. In Watson's following over, Kumar Akmal completely misjudged another full-pitched delivery and was out lbw for a duck without playing a shot.

AFRIDI BLAZES 31

New Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi, scorer of the fastest century in one-day cricket and playing his first test for four years, opted to bring Twenty20 cricket to the test arena.

He lofted Watson over the mid-wicket boundary and mid-off for two sixes in an innings of 31 from only 15 balls including four boundaries. After transforming Watson's figures from two for nought to two for 30 Afridi was caught at mid-off by Mitchell Johnson trying another big hit.

Mohammad Aamer gave Paine his fourth catch of the innings when he was caught behind for a duck.

Watson took a comfortable catch at first slip off Doug Bollinger to dismiss Umar Gul for seven before bowling Butt with a delivery which ducked in late to the left-hander.

He captured his fifth wicket after the tea interval when Steven Smith at third slip snapped up an edge from Danish Kaneria (14).

Michael Hussey with 56 not out frustrated the Pakistan bowlers when play resumed on Wednesday, steering his side from their overnight total of 229 for nine to a more competitive 253 all out.

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Paulinho wins Tour de France 10th stage

Published Wed, Jul 14 10 10:38 PM

Portugal's Sergio Paulinho won the 179-km 10th stage of the Tour de France on Wednesday.

Belarus Vasil Kiryienka was second and Belgium's Dries Devenyns came home third.

Luxembourg's Andy Schleck retained the overall lead.

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Imran Khan inducted into ICC Hall of Fame

Published Wed, Jul 14 10 10:26 PM

London, July 14 (PTI) Legendary all rounder Imran Khan today became the fourth Pakistani cricketer to be inducted into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame at Lord''s here. The former captain received his commemorative cap from ICC Chief Executive Haroon Lorgat, who was accompanied by PCB chairman Ijaz Butt, Cricket Australia chairman Jack Clarke and the MCC President John Barclay. Imran joins batsmen Hanif Mohammad and Javed Miandad and paceman Wasim Akram as Pakistan''s representatives in the initial intake of 55 players into the Hall of Fame. The induction ceremony was held during lunch break of the first Test match between Pakistan and Australia. "I achieved many things during my cricketing career, including winning a World Cup in 1992, but to be named amongst the initial 55 inductees, alongside Hanif and Javed makes me very proud," Imran said after receiving his cap. Imran captained Pakistan in 48 of his 88 Test matches scoring 3,807 runs averaging 37.69, while with the ball he claimed 362 Test wickets with an economy rate of 2.54. He led Pakistan to its first series victory in England in 1987, taking 10-77 to claim victory for the side at Headingley after every other match of the series had been drawn. Imran played 175 ODIs for Pakistan and captained the side on 139 occasions between 1982 and 1992. He claimed 182 wickets at an average of 26.61 and scored 3709 runs at an average of 33.41. The biggest moment of his 21 years international carrer came in 1992 when he led Pakistan to World Cup win. Pakistan beat England by 22 runs in the final to lift the trophy. "Imran''s brilliance in Test Match cricket and in the 50 over One-Day International format had captured the imagination of fans, including me, across the world. "He played in great spirit and built a reputation as a magnificent all rounder in both formats," ICC Chief Executive Haroon Lorgat said in a statement.

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Pak cricket legend Imran Khan inducted into ICC Hall of Fame

Published>Wed, Jul 14 10 09:58 PM

Dubai, Jul 14 (ANI): Pakistan legend Imran Khan became the fourth Pakistani to be inducted formally into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame at Lord's on Wednesday.

The former captain received his commemorative cap from ICC Chief Executive Haroon Lorgat who was accompanied by Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman and International Cricket Council (ICC) director Ijaz Butt, Cricket Australia chairman and ICC director Jack Clarke and the MCC President John Barclay, who is a former Sussex team-mate of Imran.

Imran joins batsmen Hanif Mohammad and Javed Miandad as Pakistan's representatives in the initial intake of 55 players into the Hall of Fame*, a joint venture between the ICC and the Federation of International Cricketers' Associations (FICA). Wasim Akram who was voted in at the end of 2009 joined the trio last year.

After the presentation during lunch at the MCC Spirit of Cricket Test match between Pakistan and Australia, Imran said: "It is a great honour to be inducted into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame and to be recognized for my cricketing achievements for Pakistan.

"I achieved many things during my cricketing career, including winning a World Cup in 1992, but to be named amongst the initial 55 inductees, alongside Hanif and Javed makes me very proud."

Imran captained Pakistan in 48 of his 88 Test matches scoring 3,807 runs averaging 37.69, while with the ball he claimed 362 Test wickets with an economy rate of 2.54.

His career averages put him at the top of the quartet of all-rounders (fellow Hall of Fame members Sir Ian Botham, Sir Richard Hadlee and Kapil Dev being the other three) who dominated Test cricket during the 1980s.

He led Pakistan to its first series victory in England in 1987, taking 10-77 to claim victory for the side at Headingley after every other match of the series had been drawn.

The crowning glory of his 21 years at the top of international cricket came in 1992 when he led Pakistan to victory in the Cricket World Cup over Graham Gooch's England by 22 runs. (ANI)

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I would like to play game of tennis with Qureshi, says Krishna

Published>Wed, Jul 14 10 09:22 PM

Islamabad, Jul 14 (ANI): Ahead of Indo-Pak Foreign Ministers level talks, External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna said in lighter vein that he would like to play tennis match with his Pakistani counterpart Shah Mahmood Qureshi.

The Indian External Affairs Minister arrived on a three-day visit at the Chaklala Air Base along with a 15-member official delegation on Wednesday.

"I do believe in playing tennis. But I don't know if Qureshi plays tennis. If it is so, we would like to play a game of tennis," Krishna said jocularly when asked about resumption of Indo-Pak cricketing ties.

Krishna is an avid sportsperson and plays tennis regularly. By Smita PrakashANI)

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Somdev in Aptos Challenger second round

Published>Wed, Jul 14 10 08:38 PM

Aptos (California), July 14 (IANS) India's Somdev Devvarman shrugged off an indifferent start to enter the second round of the $75,000 Challenger.

The second-seeded Somdev beat Yuichi Sugita 5-7, 6-2, 6-0 here Monday.

Somdev next plays American Alex Bogomolov Jr., who thrashed compatriot Bradley Klahn 6-2, 6-0.

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Queen's baton reaches Gaya, to enter Patna today

Published>Wed, Jul 14 10 08:22 PM

New Delhi, July 14 (ANI): The Queen's Baton for the 2010 Delhi Commonwealth Games has reached Bihar. It was greeted by tens of thousands of people and heavy showers.

From the time the baton entered Bihar and till the time it reached Gaya, which was almost 200 kms, no street was left abandoned.

People from all walks of life gathered on side roads to catch a glimpse of the baton. The excitement among the people was palpable.

For the first time, kids from various schools displayed tableaus to welcome the baton to Bihar.

It was quite a sight to see the school girls lined up with their cycles to witness the procession.

The first relay in Bihar was conducted from Kaimurvihar for a kilometre. Prominent baton bearers were Principal Secretary, Bihar Olympic Association Mohammad Mustak Ahmed and a national athletics champions like Jyoti Kumari, Mohammad Tasleen Khan and Ramesh Prasad. Weightlifter Mohammad Sheran Khan was also one of the eminent baton bearers.

Earlier, a plantation drive was conducted at the Krishnawati boating site near Rajghat in Varanasi.

The baton reached the UP-Bihar border at around 10 a.m. The baton will enter Bihar capital Patna today. (ANI)

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Mendis spins out India for 291 in warm-up match

Published>Wed, Jul 14 10 08:16 PM

Colombo, July 14 (IANS) Yuvraj Singh put himself on the right track for the Test series with a fluent century but could not save India from the guile of Ajantha Mendis, who took six wickets to bowl out the visitors for 291 in the first innings, against Sri Lanka Board President's XI here Wednesday.

Yuvraj briefly pulled India out of trouble with a 154-ball 118, but Mendis brought India's downfall on the second day of the three-day warm up match.

Sri Lanka Board President XI, who piled up 514 for nine with three centuries in their first innings, now lead by 223 runs.

Apart from Yuvraj, Gautam Gambhir was the only batsman to throw some challenge and scored 89. The rest of the Indian batsmen surrendered meekly.

Pacer Chanaka Welegedara and off-spinner Sachithra Senanayake took two wickets each.

Ajantha Mendis, who has not been picked for the first Test aganist India starting July 18, did the maximum damage.

Mendis took the first Indian wicket dismissing Virender Sehwag (18) early and then went on to take the wickets of Sachin Tendulkar and V.V.S. Laxman. India were soon tottering at 80 for four before Gambhir and Yuvraj put up 143 runs for the fifth wicket.

Yuvraj, who was included in the Test squad, after being dropped from the Asia Cup series for form and fitness, hit 11 fours and six sixes.

Gambhir, who survived some dropped chances, struck 13 fours in his 134-ball knock.

Mendis got the breakthrough, dismissing Gambhir and then ran through the tail. Mendis, who was India's nemisis in the 2008 series, bowled an impressive line and length to return figures of 17.2-3-67-6

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Sport Results

Published Wed, Jul 14 10 07:52 PM

Kolkata, Jul 14(PTI) Following are the result of the races held here today. 1st race. The Andrada Handicap, dist abut 1200 mts. Swiss King (Mrs Shikha Anand & Mr Rishi Anand) 59.5, Vinay Jaiswal, First Star Infinity, 60.5 A.Imran Khan second. Fit For Fray, 57.5 Pawan Sharma Third. Ariela, 62.5 carr. 59 Md. Sameer Fourth. All Ran. won by : 3-1/2, 1-1/4, 1-1/4 Time : 1 minute 22.443 second Tote : Rs.36/- for win, Rs.14/- & Rs.18/- for places Quinella : Rs.41/- Shp : Rs.35/-. Tanala : Rs.302/- Favourite : Ariela. Winner trained by : Vikash Jaiswal. (More) PTI Corr PD 07091854 PD

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Torres has torn thigh muscle says Spanish federation

Published Wed, Jul 14 10 07:38 PM

Striker Fernando Torres has a small muscle tear in his left thigh, the Spanish football federation said on their website (www.rfef.es).

The Liverpool forward came on as a late substitute in the World Cup final victory against Netherlands in Johannesburg on Sunday, and pulled up in pain after chasing a ball near the end of extra time.

The federation did not say how long the player would be out for, and said they were sending the medical results to his club.

Torres returned from knee surgery just before the finals in South Africa but did not look sharp and failed to score throughout the tournament.

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British Open, a Major with a lot of imponderables

Published>Wed, Jul 14 10 07:06 PM

St. Andrews (Scotland), July 14 (IANS) Can Tiger Woods turn back the pages once again at a course he is unabashedly in love with? Can some other veteran complete what Greg Norman and Tom Watson left unfinished at Birkdale and Turnberry? Can an Asian win the Open after finding a breakthrough at the Majors last year? And can the English produce a winner at their Open?

Imponderables all, but what would sport be without such questions!

Woods is looking for redemption at the British Open, a course where he has twice won the Open in 2000 and 2005. One more Major could put at rest arguments that Tiger is not what he was before hitting a fire hydrant. And it will also take him one step closer to Jack Nicklaus' magic figure of 18 Majors.

Nicklaus, who waved a tearful goodbye to the Open at the Swilcan Bridge here in 2005, has not come for the Champions Challenge, where 27 former champions will play four holes for a charity.

But the popular Watson, a five-time winner, who almost added a sixth last year, is here again. But an injured shoulder has forced two-time champion Norman to pull out.

At the past two British Opens, Norman and Watson, have come close to winning the golf's oldest major. Padraig Harrington beat 53-year-old Norman in the final round of the 2008 Open at Birkdale while Watson lost to Stewart Cink in a playoff last year at age of 59 at Turnberry.

It has been two decades since an Englishman -- Sir Nick Faldo -- held aloft the Claret Jug at Muirfield in 1992.He did that twice earlier in 1987 and 1990 (at St. Andrews).

More than an eighth of the total field this week at St. Andrews are English -- 21 of the 156 -- and four of the world's top-10 and five of the top-20 are English. Faldo says this could be the year of the English.

Ian Poulter was the runner-up at the 2008 Open, Lee Westwood came one shot short of joining eventual winner, Americans Cink and Watson in the play-off last year while Donald was fifth. A year earlier Casey was seventh.

Add to these four, Justin Rose, who in Birkdale at the 1998 Open promised so much for English golf, with his fourth place as an amateur. But he has begun to make a move only recently with two wins in the U.S. If amateur golf is the beginning of a long journey, then Chris Wood did that in 2008 while finishing fifth overall.

What about the Asians, who are still looking for their first Open? There are eight each from Korea and Japan -- that is two more than Scotland the country that gave birth to the sport -- besides a Thai and a Malaysian.

If numbers are an indication of growing strength, then the Koreans are on the right path. A golfing nation known for its successful women in the sport, they are now making waves in men's golf.

Ryo Ishikawa, the 'Bashful Prince' is among the Japanese.

K.J. Choi is delighted to see a strong Korean presence, especially when he is regarded as the trailblazer. 'This shows how far golf in Korea has developed,' said Choi, the first Asian Tour graduate to hit it big in America with seven victories on the US PGA Tour.

Yang Yong-Eun, who last August became the first Asian to win a Major, leads the list which includes Noh Seung-yul, 19, a teenager, who leads the Asian Tour's Order of Merit after defeating Choi in the Maybank Malaysian Open in March while Kim Kyung-tae, who is four years older, has won once.

Jin Jeong, 20, and the 18-year-old An Byeong-hun are holders of the two most prized amateur titles in the world, the British Amateur Championship and US Amateur Championship, which earned them starts in this week's field. A third amateur, Eric Chun who made it from the International Final Qualifying (Asia) while the other Korean is Park Jae-bum, who qualified by finishing third in the Mizuno Open in Japan.

Noh, with his father-cum-caddie, Gu-huieun, is also keen to make a strong impact on the international stage.

'I am aiming for a top-20 finish this week, or maybe better,' said Noh, who in his maiden Major was tied 40th at US Open in Pebble Beach.

One other strong Asian challenger could be Asian Tour number one Thongchai Jaidee, who is hoping that a constant supply of Thai food will spice up his game here.

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Flower compares 'under pressure' Kieswetter to Gilchrist

Published>Wed, Jul 14 10 06:52 PM

London, July 14(ANI): England coach Andy Flower has optimistically rated wicketkeeper Craig Kieswetter alongside Australian legend Adam Gilchrist, despite a recent run of low scores in ODIs.

"I don't really use the word pinch-hitter myself, but he's an aggressive opening batsman for us, pretty much in the mould of (Sanath) Jayasuriya or Gilchrist," The Fox Sports quoted Flower, as saying.

In recent three-match ODI series against Bangladesh, Kieswetter was dismissed for 32, 20 and 0, but Flower said that he intends to keep faith with the youngster.

"He's had an interesting time of it recently, scoring a hundred in his third ODI, getting man of the match in the World T20 final, being a World Cup winner. A lot of English players haven't had that, so he's up there doing that and achieving things, but then he's had a bit of a hard one-day series," Flower said.

"I think international cricket can do that to you. It can teach you some lessons and perhaps expose a few doubts. I think in the long run for Craig it might be a very healthy thing to have happened, in that by the time he plays for England again, he'll need to make his package stronger," he added.

Flower's comments come as Kieswetter's place is under scrutiny because Test keeper Matt Prior has been in magnificent batting form for Sussex in the Friends Provident T20. (ANI)

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QBR to arrive in Guwahati on July 20

Published Wed, Jul 14 10 06:38 PM

Guwahati, Jul 14 (PTI) Queen''s Baton Relay for the 2010 Commonwealth Games is scheduled to arrive here on July 20 from Sikkim where it will be received by the Assam government and state Olympic Association officials. Assam Olympic Association General Secretary and Forest Minister Rockybul Hussain today told reporters here that he will receive the baton at the Nehru Stadium from where it will proceed to the state secretariat at Dispur. Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi will be present at the secretariat to receive the Baton from where it will start its final leg of the journey to the town. The relay will culminate at the Srimanta Sankardeva Kalakshetra where Sports Minister Bharat Narah will receive it along with other state government officials. Several prominent sports personalities of the state like 92-year-old former tennis player Pulin Das, Arjuna awardees Bhogeswar Barua and Monalisa Barua Mehta, footballers Toshen Bora, Gilbertson Sangma and Jewel Bey will participate in the 10-km relay of the baton. The Baton will travel from here to Meghalaya''s capital Shillong the next day. The QBR, which was launched by Queen Elizabeth II in London last October in presence of Indian President Pratibha Patil, is scheduled to reach its final destination Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Delhi on October 3 when the Games would be opened.

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Surinder Kaur to lead India in Asian Women''s Champions Trophy

Published Wed, Jul 14 10 06:22 PM

New Delhi, Jul 14 (PTI) Veteran forward Surinder Kaur will lead an 18-member Indian squad which will take part in the inaugural Asian Women''s Champions Trophy at Busan, South Korea from July 27-31. The squad, to be coached by MK Kaushik, was selected after a trial in Bhopal, a Hockey India release said. The top four teams from the Asia Cup held at Bangkok last November will compete in the tournament to be held under the aegis of the Asian Hockey Federation. India won the silver medal in that tournament. The other teams at the Asian Champions Trophy are China, Japan and hosts South Korea. The Squad: Goalkeepers: E Rajani, Dipika Murty Defenders: Binita Toppo, Subhadra Pradhan, Joydeep Kaur Midfielders: Ritu Rani, Mukta Prava Barla, Monika, Kirandeep Kaur, Deepika Forwards; Surinder Kaur (Capt), Saba Anjum, Rani, Jasjeet Kaur Handa, Chanchan Devi, Poonam Rani, Asunta Lakra, Soundarya Yendala. Madhu Yadav (Manager); MK Kaushik (National Coach). PTI PDS SHN

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Golfing legend Nicklaus says let 'great golfer' Woods' private life remain private

Published>Wed, Jul 14 10 06:18 PM

London, July 14 (ANI): Golfing legend Jack Nicklaus has urged the world to let Tiger Woods' private life remain private so that he can concentrate on playing golf.

The Golden Bear admitted he fears for the troubled 34-year-old golfer, who cheated on wife Elin.

However, he wants Woods to get on with playing golf and be counted on the Old Course.

He said that Woods, with 14 Majors to his name, is the pretender to his record of 18 Major triumphs.

"Tiger's like me - he loves St Andrews. He has always owned this golf course so, in my mind, he would be odds-on favourite to win," the Sun quoted him as saying.

"He's a great athlete and a great golfer with a great work ethic. He's had a great desire to be a champion and he's been a great champion," he added.

"Despite anything else that's been going on, my guess is he'll be in top form when he gets here. There's an 'unless', of course - an unknown part to him right now.

"I think he's struggling with how to lead his life today. But it's none of my business, that part of it. It's no one else's business.

"The only thing that is anyone else's business is how he is as an athlete within the sport. The man's private life should be private. The trouble is that everyone's made it public.

"But whenever I came to The Open, it usually brought out the best in me. That applied no matter where we played it but particularly St Andrews," said Nicklaus. (ANI)

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Aamer warned for making physical contact with Ponting

Published Wed, Jul 14 10 06:08 PM

London, Jul 14 (PTI) Young Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Aamer has been warned by match referee not to make physical contact with batsman while celebrating his wicket during the first Test against Australia here. Chris Broad from the Emirates Elite Panel of ICC Match Referees has spoken to 18-year-old Aamer in relation to his conduct following the dismissal of Australia captain Ricky Ponting on the first day of the first Test at Lord''s here. Pakistan coach Waqar Younis was also present when Broad told Aamer at the end of the first day''s play not to repeat his conduct in future. In the 17th over of the match, Ponting was out, caught at short-leg, to a delivery from Aamer. While celebrating the wicket, Aamer crossed paths with the batsman and contact was made. While the umpires did not feel it warranted any formal action under the ICC Code of Conduct, they spoke to the Pakistan captain at the time of the incident as this was the second time in two matches that Aamer had made physical contact with a batsman after taking his wicket. "Aamer is a young, exciting, talented player full of enthusiasm for this great sport and that is to be celebrated and nurtured," Broad said in an ICC statement. "But there are a few things he still has to learn in relation to how to conduct himself on the field of play. I told him that when he takes a wicket, he should celebrate with his team-mates rather than getting himself into the personal space of the outgoing batsman. It''s a spirit of cricket issue. "It has happened twice now so we as a playing control team thought it would be sensible for me to have a word with him. He accepted it graciously and undertook to avoid a repeat occurrence. As far as we are concerned the issue is now closed," Broad said. Aamer took four for 72 in Australia''s first innings 253 all out.

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Australia all out for 253 against Pakistan

Published>Wed, Jul 14 10 05:56 PM

Australia was dismissed for 253 before lunch on day two of the first test at Lord's on Wednesday, after Pakistan was frustrated by a 10th-wicket partnership of 31 between Mike Hussey and Doug Bollinger.

Hussey, on 39 overnight, again showed his ability to marshal the tail as he took his score to 56 not out, reaching his 42nd test half-century with an inside edge for four off Umar Gul. He faced 100 deliveries.

Doug Bollinger was the last man out, bowled by a Mohammad Aamer yorker for four, made in 56 minutes. Aamer finished with 4-72.

Simon Katich top scored in the innings with 80. He was one of three wickets in a crucial seven-ball spell from Mohammad Asif (3-63) that turned the match in Pakistan's favour either side of tea on day one.

Pakistan, seeking a first test win over Australia in 15 years, would probably be satisfied with its effort having won the toss in bowler-friendly conditions.

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Cricket could be unlikely saviour of World Cup stadiums

Published>Wed, Jul 14 10 05:38 PM

Cricket could emerge as an unlikely saviour of South Africa's World Cup soccer stadiums with the decision by Cricket South Africa (CSA) to stage a Twenty20 international at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban.

South Africa underwent a massive building programme in an effort to make the country ready to host the month-long soccer extravaganza with the construction of five new stadiums while a further five underwent varying degrees of renovation.

There are concerns that following the tournament that concluded with Spain lifting the trophy for the first time on Sunday, the stadiums would become obsolete.

However, the decision to host a Twenty20 match between South Africa and India at the Durban venue next January could open the way for other soccer stadiums to be utilised in a similar capacity.

The game between South Africa and India is important for us to be able to take cricket to everyone, CSA chief executive Gerald Majola told Reuters.

We would like to utilise some of the soccer stadiums that were used during the World Cup to help us in that effort, he said.

Majola added that South Africa could benefit by the use of more stadiums to extend the domestic cricket season with an eye on setting up its own version of the lucrative Indian Premier League (IPL) Twenty20 tournament.

We can't set up our own IPL because currently there is no window, he explained.

We would like to see if it is possible to play at the Royal Bafokeng Stadium in Rustenburg and a few other soccer grounds because we would be able to extend our season into August but it is important to see what the viability of the grounds are.

INCREASE AREA

Currently, the Durban stadium falls short of meeting the International Cricket Council's (ICC) minimum playing area requirement but Majola said that the addition of an athletics track would help to increase the space available.

Majola added that if the ground could reach ICC playing regulations, the CSA would look into gaining full test status for the Moses Mabhida Stadium.

In a clear indication that more cricket could be played at the ground, the CSA has decided to build a permanent pitch at the ground as opposed to using a drop-in one for January's match.

Not all grounds can be used for tests but for Twenty20 internationals, which attract huge grounds, it would certainly be an option, Majola said.

Mike Sutcliffe, Durban's municipal manager, told Reuters that the staging of the international was part of the city's long-term plan to make the stadium sustainable.

When it became clear that we would have to build a new stadium we developed a strategy called '2010 and beyond', Sutcliffe said.

Our first objective was to develop an iconic stadium that would make for a great soccer ground, nut we also had to break into other markets and Twenty20 cricket is a perfect sport for us, he explained.

Durban already has a cricket test venue, the 25,000 capacity Kingsmead cricket ground, but it is dwarfed by the 62,760-seat Moses Mabhida Stadium.

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Match referee speaks to Pak pacer Aamer about future conduct

Published>Wed, Jul 14 10 05:22 PM

London, July 14 (ANI): Chris Broad from the Emirates Elite Panel of ICC Match Referees has spoken to Pakistan's 18-year-old fast bowler Mohammad Aamer in relation to his conduct following the dismissal of Australia captain Ricky Ponting on day one of the first Test between the two sides at Lord's.

In the 17th over of the match, Ponting was out, caught at short-leg, to a delivery from Aamer. While celebrating the wicket, Aamer crossed paths with the batsman and contact was made.

While the umpires did not feel it warranted any formal action under the ICC Code of Conduct, it was noted that this was the second time in two matches that Aamer had made physical contact with a batsman after taking his wicket and the on-field umpires spoke to the Pakistan captain at the time of the incident.

In addition, the umpires thought it appropriate for Mr Broad to speak to the bowler at the conclusion of the day's play, in the company of Pakistan team coach Waqar Younis.

"Aamer is a young, exciting, talented player full of enthusiasm for this great sport and that is to be celebrated and nurtured," said Mr Broad.

"But there are a few things he still has to learn in relation to how to conduct himself on the field of play. I told him that when he takes a wicket, he should celebrate with his team-mates rather than getting himself into the personal space of the outgoing batsman. It's a spirit of cricket issue.

"It has happened twice now so we as a playing control team thought it would be sensible for me to have a word with him. He accepted it graciously and undertook to avoid a repeat occurrence. As far as we are concerned the issue is now closed," said Mr. Broad. (ANI)

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Rose eager to get his own back on return to St Andrews

Published>Wed, Jul 14 10 05:16 PM

The last time Justin Rose was at a British Open at St Andrews he was forced to endure a cruel, teasing day at the practice range, hoping one player would drop out and give him the chance he craved.

As first reserve that day five years ago, his opportunity depressingly never came, but after a scintillating run of form which has netted him two U.S. PGA Tour wins, his place in the 156-man field is in no question this time round.

"I was first reserve here in 2005, sat there all day on the driving range, watched everybody tee off," the affable 29-year-old Englishman told reporters at a windswept, rain-lashed Old Course on Wednesday.

"Was here at like six in the morning until four in the evening. It's probably one of the longest fields teeing off wise, so it was a long tough day."

Rose's career has been more or less defined by his travails at his home Open.

In 1998, the fresh-faced 17-year-old amateur burst into the nation's consciousness when an outrageous chipped-in eagle on the 72nd hole at Royal Birkdale grabbed a tie for fourth place.

He turned professional soon after, too soon according to some, and life with the big hitters proved a tough ordeal for the South African-born player.

Rose's inconsistent game meant he also missed the 2004 and 2006 Opens, a forlorn 80 in the second round at Royal St George's in 2003 suggesting his early promise may never quite be fulfilled.

But 2010 has seen the Rose potential really come to the fore, with two victories and one near-miss on the PGA Tour in the last month, and he enters the 150th anniversary championship as one of the tournament favourites.

"Confidence comes with good play, and there's certainly been some of that recently for me to enjoy," said Rose as a howling wind battered the creaking press marquee.

"I really don't feel necessarily that all those good weeks are going to help me all that much on Thursday. Thursday is about a new challenge, a new week, a new golf course.

"But should the week progress nicely and I find myself in contention, then that's when I might be able to draw upon the last few weeks."

Rose played the back nine early on Wednesday before the worst of the weather settled in, and the world number 16 felt his preparation, which had seen pretty much every condition a Scottish summer can throw at you, had been ideal.

"I practised last week with a westerly wind and obviously it's blowing out of the east right now, so I was quite excited to feel like I've played both sets of winds that impact the golf course.

"If we get a little bit of the extreme stuff, then so be it. That's definitely part of an Open championship. You come here at least expecting that it could play a part."

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Malik dropped over poor form, not 'time' with wife Sania: Pak manager

Published>Wed, Jul 14 10 04:52 PM

London, July 14 (ANI): The Pakistan team management has rubbished media reports that middle order batsman Shoaib Malik was dropped from the squad for the first Test against Australia underway at Lord's because of spending too much time with newly wed wife Sania Mirza.

Team manager Yawar Saeed said Malik was dropped because of his form, and that there was no disciplinary action taken against him.

Saeed said the team was picked well in advance, and the tour selection committee did not consider Malik because he is struggling with the bat.

Media reports had claimed that Malik had skipped a practice session to be with Sania following which he was axed from the playing eleven.

It was also reported that skipper Shahid Afridi had even taken up the matter with Malik and asked him to be more careful in future.

"Malik is spending too much time with his wife. We want him to fully concentrate on game if he wants to play long for the country. The management has already taken up the matter with him and he hopefully will emerge much wiser after missing the historic first Test at Lord's," The News had quoted a team official, who refused to be named, as saying earlier. (ANI)

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Clarke's sustained sterling form behind promotion to No 4 spot: Ponting

Published>Wed, Jul 14 10 04:38 PM

London, July 14(ANI): Australian skipper Ricky Ponting has said that his decision to elevate Michael Clarke in the batting order in the Lord's Test against Pakistan was in recognition of his deputy's sterling Test form over the past two years.

Ponting also said that it was an attempt to fortify the batting order before the Ashes, which begins in Brisbane in November.

The Test marks the start of Clarke's long-anticipated shift from No.5 to No.4, in a swap with veteran Mike Hussey.

"I had a good chat to both of those guys leading into the Derby [warm-up] game about the reasons behind it and what I see as being best for the team ... That's the way it will be for not only this series, but right through the Ashes as well," The Sydney Morning Herald quoted Ponting, as saying.

Hussey has had the No.4 position since Damien Martyn's retirement in 2006.

In the past two years the left-hander has scored 1587 runs from 44 innings, at an average of 38.71, while in the same period Clarke scored 2163 runs at 56.92.

Only opener Simon Katich, with 2215 runs, outscored Clarke in the Australian team.

Talking about Clarke's batting performances, Ponting said that the 29-year-old has developed his game nicely over the last couple of years.

"I think his game's very well suited higher up the order against the newer ball, probably a bit more than what Hussey's is right at the moment. He has been our most consistent player and that's been pretty much in all conditions around the world," Ponting said.

"During the last Ashes series over here I think he showed that at different times and at challenging times when the ball was moving around quite a bit that he can do the job up the order," he added. (ANI)

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Deepika Padukone cheers on at British Grand Prix

Published Wed, Jul 14 10 04:08 PM

New Delhi, Jul 14 (PTI) She had wowed Cannes with her saree, but Bollywood beauty Deepika Padukone was seen in a all-together more glamorous avatar as she cheered on her favourite F1 team, ''Force India'' at the British Grand Prix. Dressed in her team''s jersey and black shorts, the former model cut a striking figure as she cheered on from the paddock and posed alongside the pit girls. "The energy and buzz of the place on race weekend is something else. I am here to cheer for Force India who have been my favourite," said the actress in a press statement. The 24-year-old was cheering for the Force India Formula One team today during the qualifying session and will be there to scream her lungs out tomorrow during the British Grand Prix races. Force India''s Adrian Sutil and Tonio Liuzzi Adrian Sutil will start 11th and 15th on the grid. Deepika is not the only Bollywood star with a love of racing. Badshah Khan, ie Shah Rukh Khan, had created a stir when he attended the Malaysian Grand Prix, as he has a huge fan following in the country.

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WC hero Psychic Paul boosts octopus consumption in Chinese restaurants!

Published>Wed, Jul 14 10 03:52 PM

New Delhi, July 14 (ANI): Paul the psychic octopus is popular for different reasons these days, even though the World Cup is over.

The octopus has boosted consumption of octopus in Chinese restaurants and has even become popular on the Web.

By Tuesday, vendors had released more than 150 'Paul the octopus' products on taobao.com - including furniture, toys, snacks, computer gadgets and clothes.

Meanwhile, fans of losing teams said they were going to cook up an octopus to vent their anger, reports the China Daily.

On douban.com, a lifestyle Web portal popular for young people, several netizens posted inquiries about keeping an octopus as a pet. (ANI)

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Pietersen losing no sleep over his patchy form

Published>Wed, Jul 14 10 03:38 PM

London, July 14(ANI): England batsman Kevin Pietersen insists that he is losing no sleep over his patchy form with the bat.

Pietersen, who burst onto the international scene with a flurry of big scores in 2005, has failed to pass 50 in his last 17 ODI innings.

His last half-century came in November 2008, when he scored 111 not out as captain against India in Cuttack.

"I'm not worried about my form. It happens to every single player. It's difficult when you play all three forms of the game to just keep on going and going and going," The Sun quoted Pietersen, as saying.

"I don't know if there's a big score for me around the corner. If it happens it happens. I'm not too fussed. I'm not losing any sleep over it," he added.

The 30-year-old, who was rested for the recent ODI series against Bangladesh, also said that the rest has come at a really good time.

"I have absolutely loved the time off. I have a brand new child at home and spending time with him has been priceless. There's no problem with that whatsoever. I will be fit and raring to go for the Pakistan series," he said.

Pietersen will now spend another week resting before resuming training ahead of England's four-Test series against Pakistan, which begins at Trent Bridge on July 29.

He could return to his current county, Hampshire, in a bid to get some match practice before the first Test. (ANI)

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Bengal aim at ending 11-year Santosh Trophy title drought

Published Wed, Jul 14 10 03:22 PM

Kolkata, Jul 14 (PTI) Hosts Bengal will aim at ending their 11-year title drought when the 64th National Football Championship for the Santosh Trophy 2009-10 kicks off with the preliminary round at different veunes here tomorrow. Twenty-nine times champions Bengal, under coach Raghu Nandy, bowed to Goa in the shootout last year in Chennai to finsh runners-up and the title chase remained elusive for the giants who had last won the trophy way back in 1998-99. This time under Shabbir Ali, Bengal vow to win back the title as the team gears up for a residential camp from Saturday before they kick off their campaign in the quarterfinal league stage beginning July 29. Bengal along with reigning champions Goa and semifinalists Tamil Nadu and Services have been directly seeded into the last eight stage. Thirty-two teams will participate in the Santosh Trophy with 28 unseeded teams divided into eight clusters where they will play round-robin league in each cluster beginning tomorrow. This time, the premier tournament will lose a bit of sheen with 30 national team players training in Portugal for the Asian Cup to be held in Doha, Qatar from January 7-29 next year. In the opening day''s fixtures, Karnataka will take on Meghalaya at Khardah in cluster one, while in cluster two, Maharashtra will fight Chandigarh (Howrah Stadium) and Tripura will lock horns with Andhra Pradesh (Barasat) to kick off the tournament. The winners of each cluster will then battle it out in the knock-out pre-quarterfinal stage for a place in the quarterfinal league. From quarterfinal league onwards, the tournament will be held on the artificial turf of the Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Salt Lake. The quarterfinal league will be held from July 29 to August 4 while the semi-finals will be played on August 6. Veteran coach Shabbir Ali said, "We have to win at any cost, there is nothing else in mind. We are not looking back." Bengal boast of veterans like Jayanta Sen, Abhijit Mondal, Sandip Nandy ans Gouranga Datta.

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Spain back on top of FIFA rankings

Published>Wed, Jul 14 10 03:08 PM

Zurich, July 14 (DPA) Spain returned to the top of the world football rankings issued Wednesday by the ruling body FIFA in the wake of their first World Cup triumph.

But the 2006 winners Italy crashed out of the top-10 and the runners up from four ago, France, even out of the top-20 after both went out in the group stage of the tournament in South Africa.

Spain, who had lost first place to Brazil a few months ago, returned to the top with 1,883 points with the World Cup triumph Sunday, 1-0 over the Netherlands. The Dutch moved from fourth to second with 1,659 points while quarter-final victims Brazil dropped from first to third with 1,536 points.

Semi-finalists Uruguay shot from 16th to a ranking best sixth place, Egypt moved from 14th to ninth even though they did not play at the World Cup, and Chile climbed from 18th to 10th.

The other top 10 teams are Germany (fourth), Argentina (fifth), England (seventh) and Portugal (eighth).

On the other side of the spectrum, Italy plunged from sixth to 11th, non-World Cup team Croatia dropped from 10th to 15th place and France even crashed 12 places, from ninth to 21st.

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Pak cricket suffers another PCB U-turn

Published>Wed, Jul 14 10 02:52 PM

The Pak cricket board has shown that players can escape punishment no matter what they do, indicating it is powerless.

The Pakistan Cricket Board has returned the money it had deducted from the funds of four players after they were fined heavily earlier this year for indiscipline during the disastrous tour of Australia.

According to details, PCB's finance department in a show of great urgency returned the fine amount of Shahid Afridi, Kamran Akmal, Umar Akmal and Shoaib Malik, who were penalised in March by the board's inquiry committee set up to probe the national team's poor show in Australia.

Afridi abnd Kamran were fined three million rupees, while Umar and Malik were penalised two million each.

The PCB inquiry committee even imposed a one-year ban on Malik for indiscipline during the tour but the board's appeal's commissioner later cleared him of any wrongdoing, thereby paving the way for the former captain's return to the national team.

"Since Afridi's fine was removed completely and the fines of other players were halved, they approached the board for return of their funds," one source said.

The source said that PCB chairman Ejaz Butt had flown to England last week with cheques for the players.

"Butt handed over the cheques of the deducted amounts to the players when he met them in London before the first Test, the source said.

"The idea was that the players should have a peace of mind before the start of the Test series. Secondly, the players were right in their apprehensions as the finance department acted too hastily while deducting the total fines from the players earnings," the source added.

PCB inquiry committee had also banned Rana Naved for a yaer and fined him two million rupees but his appeal is still pending with the appeal's commissioner.

Source: Web Search

India draw 3-3 with Belgium in 1st hockey Test

Published Wed, Jul 14 10 02:38 PM

New Delhi, Jul 14 (PTI) Drag-flicker Sandeep Singh''s twin strikes went in vain as India were held to a 3-3 draw by Belgium in the first hockey Test match at Temse, Belgium. Sandeep converted two penalty corners for India in the 26th and 28th minute of the match yesterday, while the third goal was scored by Vikas Pillay (58th). For Belgium Jeff Thys (13th minute), Jerome Truyens (48th) and Thomas Briels (59th) were the goal-getters. The second Test between the two sides will be played at Antwerp tomorrow. In yesterday''s encounter, Belgium began strongly with an attack by Greg Gucassoff after being set up with an overhead pass from his captain Truyens, but the danger was waived off momentarily by an alert Indian goalkeeper P Sreejesh. Shortly after, Belgium created a fast break through the centre but Cedric Charlier''s short went wide off the target. India also missed an opportunity to take the lead when Vikas Pillay fumbled on the edge of the Belgium circle after receiving a diagonal cross from Sandeep. Belgium too wasted another opportunity after Thomas Briels snatched the ball from Gurbaj Singh but his one-touch pass to Thys was hit wide. With both the teams struggling to control the ball in the new turf, India mounted an attack from the left flank through Dharamvir Singh, Danish Mujtaba and Ravi Pal. The trio penetrated into the Belgian striking circle but Dharamvir''s well-taken shot was saved by goalkeeper Jeremy Gucassoff. Belgium, however, took the lead in the 13th minute through Thys, courtesy a miscommunication between Indian custodian Sreejesh and Gurbaj. The goal came as a wake up call for the Indians who soon swung back into attack with one-touch passes and earned their first of the four penalty corners but Dhananjay Mahadik pushed the ball wide off target from an indirect set up. Sandeep was the bright spot in the Indian back line. Manning the defence in the absence of injured Sardar Singh, he came up with crisp passes to set up many Indian attacks. It was Sandeep who first found the equaliser for India in the 26th minute and then gave the visitors a 2-1 lead two minutes later from another set piece. Belgium, however, restored parity in the 48th minute when skipper Truyens found the mark from a penalty corner. But India again surged ahead with Vikas Pillay finding the back of rival net 10 minutes later after being set up by Hari Prasad, only to witness Briels restoring the parity in the very next minute. India too were little lucky not to have conceded another goal at the fag end of the match with Birendra Lakra Jr making a goal-line save.

Source: Web Search

Deepika Padukone cheers on at British Grand Prix

Published Wed, Jul 14 10 02:26 PM

New Delhi, Jul 14 (PTI) She had vowed Cannes with her saree, but Bollywood beauty Deepika Padukone was seen in a all-together more glamorous avatar as she cheered on her favourite F1 team, ''Force India'' at the British Grand Prix. Dressed in her team''s jersey and black shorts, the former model cut a striking figure as she cheered on from the paddock and posed alongside the pit girls. "The energy and buzz of the place on race weekend is something else. I am here to cheer for Force India who have been my favourite," said the actress in a press statement. The 24-year-old was cheering for the Force India Formula One team today during the qualifying session and will be there to scream her lungs out tomorrow during the British Grand Prix races. Force India''s Adrian Sutil and Tonio Liuzzi Adrian Sutil will start 11th and 15th on the grid. Deepika is not the only Bollywood star with a love of racing. Badshah Khan, ie Shah Rukh Khan, had created a stir when he attended the Malaysian Grand Prix, as he has a huge fan following in the country.

Source: Web Search

Selectors had no other choice but to make me captain: Afridi

Published>Wed, Jul 14 10 02:06 PM

London, July 14 (ANI): Pakistan skipper Shahid Afridi believes that he was handed over the responsibility to lead the side, as the selectors had no other choice.

In an interview to a leading cricket website, Afridi said he was ready for the challenge from a long time, but the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) kept on ignoring him.

When asked that whether he was ready to accept the responsibility of captaincy, the flamboyant all- rounder he had always wanted to lead the national side in the longer version of the game.

"Firstly they did not have any other choice," Afridi said.

"I was ready four to five years ago but somebody else was appointed instead. The board told me that I would be the captain but the next day they announced I would not be the captain. I was really hurt," he said.

Despite the disappointments, Afridi said he is enjoying the new challenge and is looking forward to help the team regain the lost pride against Australia in the two-match Test series.

"I am enjoying the captaincy because I have been entrusted with the responsibility. It is not just about leading 17 players, it is about leading the entire country," said the slam-bang cricketer. (ANI)

Source: Web Search

Murugappa Gold Cup hockey gets richer

Published>Wed, Jul 14 10 01:56 PM

Chennai, July 14 (IANS) Enhanced prize-money and introduction of the new green card rule (automatic two-minute suspension) will be the new features of the 86th All-India MCC-Murugappa Gold Cup hockey tournament starting here Thursday.

The field for the tournament, which concludes July 25, is much the same as last year when Army XI beat Bharat Petroleum in the final. The two losing semi-finalists, Indian Oil and ONGC, are also among the 10 teams who have been divided into two groups of five for the preliminary league with the two top finishers advancing to the semi-finals.

Arun Murugappan, Managing Director, Murugappa Group, kept his promise by hiking the winner's cheque to Rs.2.5 lakh, up from Rs.1.5 lakh, making the tournament among the richest in India.

Mohammad Muneer, making his debut as the tournament director, announced that the new green card rule as per which the player receiving the card is automatically suspended for two minutes, will be in effect.

Yet again, the tournament will be without the top players, most of who are either in various training camps or touring abroad with the national team.

Groupings:

Pool A: Army XI, ONGC, Karnataka XI, Indian Railways and Namdhari XI. Pool B: Indian Oil, BPCL, Southern Railway, Hockey India Juniors and Punjab National Bank.

Source: Web Search

Redknapp signs for Spurs, seeks Joe Cole to join club

Published>Wed, Jul 14 10 01:38 PM

London, July 14(ANI): Tottenham Hotspur manager Harry Redknapp has said that he wants to sign Chelsea midfielder Joe Cole.

Redknapp, who signed a new contract at Spurs that keeps him at White Hart Lane until 2013, said: "I'm delighted to sign, now I want Joe here with me."

The 63-year-old is prepared to leave no stone unturned in his pursuit of Cole, and is prepared to offer him a regular place in the Spurs' team, something which the midfielder could not nail down at Chelsea.

Talks between Cole's agent and Spurs Chairman Daniel Levy have reached a crucial stage with the England star demanding 100,000 pounds a week.

"I managed Joe when I was at West Ham, I signed him for the club when he was just 11. We have always had a good relationship. I know what makes Joe tick - it's his love of the game and his need to be playing it. That is what I am offering him," The Sun quoted Redknapp, as saying.

"I would like Joe here with me, but it is now up to the club, Joe, his dad and his agent. Daniel is talking and trying to do a deal. If it is beyond us in financial terms I can appreciate that, but I am hoping other factors will come into play to make up Joe's mind," he added.

Chelsea released the 28-year-old last month after he refused a new contract. (ANI)

Source: Web Search

Rooney may be 'rested' during start of Premier League season

Published>Wed, Jul 14 10 01:22 PM

London, July 14(ANI): Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has said that striker Wayne Rooney could miss the start of the season following his decision to give extended rest to World Cup players.

"Winning is part of what we have to do here, but the main object is to get everyone game time and come back ready, fit to start the season. Even the Community Shield does not come into it in terms of a need-to-win game. It's the final part of our preparation," The Sun quoted Ferguson, as saying.

"It's on August 8 and then they have internationals that week, and then we have our first game the following Monday against Newcastle. By that time, after we've surveyed the fitness of the ones who've been in the World Cup because they don't come back until July 28."

"We'll know whether any or all should play in the opening game. I have a feeling we'll probably not play them all," he added.

Ferguson is aware of possible burn-out with his younger stars, but finds it more difficult to give Rooney a rest, as the club's top scorer from last season is always so desperate to play.

Rooney hit 34 goals and scooped the PFA and Football Writers' Player of the Year awards. (ANI)

Source: Web Search

World C'ship next on Saina's radar

Published>Wed, Jul 14 10 01:08 PM

After winning three successive international tournaments, badminton mavin Saina Nehwal is confident of conquering the next month's World Championship in Paris.

"Considering the way I am playing and the results that I have achieved so far, I hope to win this tournament," Saina said on the sidelines of a felicitation programme by BAI and Premier Brands.

The world number three won the India Open Grand Prix Gold in Chennai, Singapore Open Super Series and also defended her Indonesian Open Super series crown recently.

Her red-hot form also won her captain's cap for the elite competition, where India are fielding a nine-member team.

"I don't know why I have been made the captain but I can say I will give my best and cheer my teammates. For everything else it has to be my coach Gopi sir," said Saina, who was presented with 24-carat gold coins by Premier Brands, the official sponsor of the Indian team.

The other members of the team for the August 23-29 competition, are Aditi Mutatkar, Jwala Gutta, Ashwini Ponnappa, Chetan Anand, P Kashyap, Sanave Thomas, Rupesh Kumar and V Diju.

The Hyderabadi said she laid emphasis on her fitness and strokes in the last six months and it showed in her performance.

"I worked on my fitness a lot and also playing less tournaments this year and devoting more time in training has helped me improve strokes as well. So my stamina and range of strokes came good during these matches," she said.

Saina said she does not fear facing strong Chinese player and is ready to take them on the World Championship.

"Chinese are beatable and I have proved that in the past. They are the powerhouse of badminton but all the countries have also improved a lot now and I have always been comfortable against them," Saina said.

Asked about rankings, Saina said," It is just a number. You play well, it moves up and you lose it goes down but I want to be the number one and I know if I can keep doing the hard work, I will."

Source: Web Search

Ten Minutes With Gary Player

Published>Wed, Jul 14 10 12:52 PM

Monte Burke, Forbes.com

Gary Player is one of golf's greats. The 74-year-old South African, nicknamed "The Black Knight" for his on-course wardrobe, won 165 professional events and has earned $14 million in his 57-year career. He is tied for fourth on the all-time major-winner list with nine, and accomplished a career Grand Slam on both the PGA and Champions Tours. Player has recently concentrated more on golf course design (he has more than 300 to his credit), raising Thoroughbreds and writing. His latest book, out in early June, is Don't Choke: A Champion's Guide to Winning Under Pressure.

Throughout his public life Player has never been shy about speaking his mind. We caught up with him to talk about his book, his career, performance-enhancing drugs and, of course, Tiger Woods.

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Forbes: What was your best career moment?

Player: It is very difficult for me to point to one single moment in my career, because there have been so many wonderful memories, but I consider winning the career Grand Slam on the PGA Tour and Champions Tour my greatest on-course accomplishments.

The worst?

The 1969 PGA Championship in Dayton, Ohio was a tough one for me, not because I lost, but because some of the people at the tournament believed me to be something that I was not. The opposition to Apartheid was vicious in the USA, and being a South African, I was immediately considered to be a racist white man who supported Apartheid.

While I played people were throwing ice in my eyes and telephone books on my back during my back swing, and throwing balls through my legs when I was putting. They were charging me on the greens when I was about to putt, and screaming as I took the putter back.

I had police protection escorting me around the golf course, even when I had to go to the bathroom and had lunch at the clubhouse. It was difficult for me to be viewed as an Apartheid supporter when I was not, and was actually trying to find ways to bring my country together, not split it apart.

In 2007 you were outspoken about the possible use of performance-enhancing drugs in professional golf. Some say the attention garnered by those comments led directly to the PGA Tour's current testing policy. Do you think some players are still using PEDs?

I spoke out because I felt strongly about the dangers of PEDs and the damage their use could do to the sport that I love. PEDs are horrible and do far more harm than good, and I am happy that the tours worldwide have implemented testing policies. It is important for the game to remain above reproach. I am not aware of any individuals who are using PEDs, although it is impossible for me to say that none are.

Who is the best golfer of all time?

My friend Jack Nicklaus is the best ever to play the game.

Do you think Tiger will beat Jack's record?

Eventually, yes, Tiger will surpass Jack's record. His mental toughness, more than his physical abilities, is what will allow him to break the record.

Your book is about performing under pressure. Why do people choke?

There are two reasons: Not being fully prepared, and letting doubt or negative thoughts enter your mind. When I played I practiced relentlessly, ate a healthy diet and exercised every day. Knowing that I was in top mental and physical condition gave me a lot of confidence, and I never worried about getting tired or worn down during a tournament. That removed doubt from my mind.

Letting negative thoughts enter your mind will guarantee failure. I remember when the weather was rough I'd hear others in the locker room say how horrible it was and how they hated playing in the rain and wind. Right then and there they had lost the tournament, because they set themselves up for failure. I told myself that I loved playing in the wind and rain and went out and played with a positive mind-set.

What's the best piece of advice in the book?

To take both golf and life as a one-shot-at-a-time philosophy. If you are able to see hard times as a chance for growth and deeper meaning, you will arm yourself with the most powerful mental weapon: optimism and the power of positive thinking.

Source: Web Search

WC final referees had no choice 'but to manage the way we did': Webb

Published>Wed, Jul 14 10 12:46 PM

London, July 14(ANI): FIFA World Cup final's referee, Howard Webb, has hit back at his critics, saying that he has no regrets over his handling of Sunday's game between Spain and the Netherlands.

Webb was criticised in some quarters after he showed 14 yellow cards and dismissed Netherlands defender Johnny Heitinga in a match marred by frequent foul play.

"It was one of the toughest games my assistants and I will ever be involved in. We feel we worked hard to keep the focus on the football as much as possible. Whatever the match, you always hope the officials won't need to be heavily involved," The Sun quoted Webb, as saying.

"However, we had to raise our profile just to keep control. From early on in the match we had to make decisions that were clear yellow cards. We tried to apply some common-sense given the magnitude of the occasion," he added.

The 39-year-old further said that the referees did not have much choice, "but to manage the game the way we did".

"We advised players early on for some of their tackling, sent players away when they were surrounding the officials and spoke to their senior colleagues to try and calm them down," Webb said.We did a tough job in difficult circumstances to the best of our abilities. It would have been an extremely challenging match for any referee," he added. (ANI)

Source: Web Search

German football hit by 'bunch of gays' storm

Published>Wed, Jul 14 10 12:38 PM

Berlin, July 14(ANI): Injured German skipper Michael Ballack's agent has sparked a controversy by reportedly launching a bizarre attack on the national team by branding some unnamed players a "bunch of gays".

Michael Becker, a close adviser to Ballack since 1999, made the remarks two months before the World Cup, according to an essay in German magazine Der Spiegel.

In the essay entitled New German Men, Alexander Osang recounts an interview he had with Becker prior to the World Cup in which the agent allegedly told him which of the players in the team were gay.

A few days later, Becker told a group of journalists and players' managers at a match played by Ballack's new club Bayer Leverkusen that there was a former national player who was going to expose a "bunch of queers" within the national team, The Guardian reports.

Osang concluded that homosexuality was "a synonym for anything that Becker did not understand."

Apparently that included the lighter, more elegant style of play encouraged under the leadership of Germany coach Joachim Loew.

Becker has neither denied nor confirmed that he made the comments, but has since said that he was "misunderstood" and that the interview was not "authorized", a common journalistic practice in Germany whereby the interviewee has the right to change his remarks after the interview.

Osang said that he stood by his article, saying that Becker had told him "unbelievable stories that I took down in my notebook and Becker didn't seem to have anything against me doing so". (ANI)

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