Injured Shahzad ruled out of Trent Bridge Test against Pakistan

Published>Thu, Jul 29 10 11:46 AM

London, July 29(ANI): England fast bowler Ajmal Shahzad has been ruled out of the first Test against Pakistan, starting at Trent Bridge here on Thursday, due to an ankle injury.

Shahzad suffered the injury when he twisted his left ankle while playing for Yorkshire in a 40-over match last Monday. He has been replaced by fellow Yorkshire fast bowler Tim Bresnan.

"Unfortunately Ajmal felt some discomfort following England practice at the NCPC (National Cricket Performance Centre) on Tuesday and as a precautionary measure it is felt he is best to undergo rehabilitation on the ankle for the remainder of this week," The News quoted Nick Peirce, England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) chief medical officer, as saying in a statement.

"We expect Ajmal to make a full recovery, he hasn't been ruled unavailable for the second Test starting next week (at Edgbaston). He will continue to be assessed this week before a decision on his fitness is made," he added.

The 25-year-old has so far played just one Test, against Bangladesh in Manchester last month, where he took four wickets for 63 runs.

England team for the Test match (probable): Andrew Strauss (captain), Alastair Cook, Jonathan Trott, Kevin Pietersen, Paul Collingwood, Eoin Morgan, Matt Prior (wkt), Stuart Broad, Graeme Swann, James Anderson, Steven Finn and Tim Bresnan.

Pakistan team for the Test match (probable): Salman Butt (captain), Imran Farhat, Azhar Ali, Umar Amin, Umar Akmal, Shoaib Malik, Kamran Akmal (wkt), Mohammad Aamer, Umar Gul, Danish Kaneria and Mohammad Asif. (ANI)

Source: Web Search

Master keeps India afloat

Thu, Jul 29 10 11:28 AM

Colombo, July 29 -- Prasanna Jayawardene might well curse himself all through Wednesday night. Had the Sri Lanka wicketkeeper not dropped a dolly off Sachin Tendulkar's edge mid-way through the third day's play, the hosts might have been smelling a victory to seal the series by the end of the day. Instead, Tendulkar (108 not out) went on to register his 48th Test century and along with debutant Suresh Raina (66 not out), taking India closer to safety. At stumps, India were 382 for 4, chasing Lanka's huge total of 642 for 4 declared. Though India still needed 61 runs to avoid follow-on, if Tendulkar and Raina, who have already put on 141 runs for the fifth wicket, see off the early overs on Thursday morning, the match will virtually have been saved. The only foul stroke off Tendulkar's blade came in the second session, when the master batsman tried to glide a short ball by Dilhara Fernando over the slip cordon. But he could only manage an edge and Jayawardene inexplicably failed to garner a regulation collection behind the stumps. India were 225 for 3 then, still 218 adrift the follow-on mark. From then on, it was a magnificent display of patience and class from Tendulkar. Not only did he keep the strike rotating, but when he saw a loose ball - whether it was from Ajantha Mendis, debutant offspinner Suraj Randiv or Fernando - he sent it to the fence. While he was cautious for a while, as Raina got his eye in after VVS Laxman (29) perished off Mendis, he cut loose with a six over long-on off Randiv to cross his fifty. And the master completed his deserving century with a sweep shot off the same bowler that raced to the boundary five overs before stumps. Earlier in the morning, Virender Sehwag (99) and Murali Vijay (58) continued from where they had left on Tuesday evening. Both scored freely off all the bowlers on a wicket that didn't offer much, till Sehwag again threw it away. When the opener was one run shy of his fourth century in as many Tests, skipper Kumar Sangakkara threw the ball to Randiv for the first time in the day and the offie sent down a straight one to Sehwag. The dashing opener charged down the wicket, tried to heave it on the leg side, missed it and the keeper did the rest.

But Tendulkar and Laxman then steadied the ship and avoided a collapse. Though Laxman looked far from convincing, his 116-minute stay at the wicket ensured India did not have a collapse like the one at Galle last week. And Raina then paired with the master to take all the fizz out of the Lankan bowlers.

Source: Published>

Islamabad air crash kills budding woman footballer

Thu, Jul 29 10 10:38 AM

Karachi, Jul 29 (PTI) The ill-fated passenger flight that crashed into the mountains near Islamabad also killed a budding Pakistani female footballer who was going to take part in the National Women''s Championship in the capital city. Meesha Dawood, who was only 19, had to convince her parents to let her fly to Islamabad to join the Karachi-based Diya football club that is taking part in the national event. According to her friends and teammates, Meesha didn''t reach Islamabad with the rest of the team because her parents were not allowing her initially. "She was coming in today after a few days delay because she had to convince her parents to give her permission," friend Sara Khan said. "She was passionate about football, the last time she played in the championship two years ago, she scored a hat-trick," Sara said. The government said all 152 passengers and crew on board the Air Blues flight had been killed in the crash on Wednesday morning. Diya football club from Karachi dedicated their match yesterday''s 2-0 against the much stronger Punjab side to her memory. Both the teams also observed a minute''s silence to pay tributes to Meesha. "We felt that we should go ahead with the match today because there was no better way to remember Meesha who was a big football enthusiast and full of life," said a teammate. In Pakistan''s conservative society, girls don''t get encouragement to take up sports and many meet resistance from family and relatives if they decide to play. Because of the taboos surrounding girls and sports, the Pakistan Football Federation does not allow unaccompanied males into the stadium during the National championship. The players have to wear baggy track suits and are not allowed to wear shorts.

Source: Published>

La Liga announce new tournament in Asia to boost brand

Published>Thu, Jul 29 10 09:58 AM

Spain's La Liga revealed plans to host an annual pre-season tournament in Asia in a bid to boost their brand in a region dominated by the English Premier League.

The International LFP Cup will begin next year and feature three Spanish sides and one local team but the tournament, which will start in a south-east Asian country, will eventually move around the world.

"With Spain emerging as champions of the 2010 World Cup, we felt this is the best time to introduce the International LFP Cup and share the beauty of Spanish football with the Asian market," Francisco Roca Perez, CEO of La Liga, said in a statement.

Perez told reporters at the Soccerex Asian Forum in Singapore that details of the teams and host country for the first tournament will be named later this year.

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NBA - Lakers center Bynum has successful knee surgery

Thu, Jul 29 10 08:38 AM

Los Angeles Lakers center Andrew Bynum is expected to play a limited role in pre-season training after having successful arthroscopic knee surgery on Wednesday.

Bynum, who won his second NBA championship ring last month, had surgery in New York to repair a tear of the lateral meniscus in his right knee, the team said in a statement.

The seven-foot center is expected make a full recovery by the start of the regular season.

Bynum suffered the injury in the first round of the playoffs against Oklahoma City in April but he continued to play.

He had his knee drained twice during the playoffs and was with the team when they clinched their 16th championship with a Game Seven victory over the Boston Celtics.

While opting to postpone surgery, Bynum averaged 8.6 points and 6.9 rebounds after starting each of the team's 23 postseason games.

Lakers training camp is scheduled to begin on Sept. 25 before the team travels to Europe to play exhibition games in Barcelona and London.

Source: Published>

Argentina bosses betrayed me - Maradona

Published>Thu, Jul 29 10 06:18 AM

Diego Maradona accused Argentine soccer chiefs of betraying him on Wednesday, a day after they voted unanimously to sack him as national team coach.

The Argentine Football Association (AFA) decided not to renew Maradona's contract following the team's 4-0 drubbing by Germany in the World Cup quarter-finals.

In his first public comments since the defeat, Maradona took aim at AFA President Julio Grondona and the technical director of national teams, Carlos Bilardo.

"Grondona lied to me, Bilardo betrayed me," a sombre Maradona told a news conference at a restaurant, reading from a prepared statement.

"Grondona told me in the changing room after we were eliminated in South Africa ... that he was very pleased with the work I'd done and he wanted me to stay on," he said. "When we were in mourning, Bilardo worked in the shadows to kick me out."

Maradona, who led Argentina to World Cup victory as captain in 1986, was appointed as coach in 2008 despite having very little coaching experience.

During his tumultuous spell in charge, Maradona was banned for two months for a foul-mouthed outburst at a news conference and the squad barely scraped through the qualifiers.

After convincing wins in their opening World Cup games, Argentina became one of the tournament's favourites, but Maradona's dreams of lifting soccer's most-coveted prize as coach were dashed by the Germans.

Dressed in a navy suit and blue shirt, Maradona appeared in a reflective mood, occasionally appearing to fight back tears as he read from the statement.

He said he was still recovering from the loss to Germany but put some of the blame for the patchy World Cup campaign on AFA.

"They called me to put out a fire and then when I did, this happens," he said, adding that he had taken over the team during a time of crisis and had been dropped before being able to finish the job.

He said he wanted to continue as coach but that during a meeting with Grondona, the AFA head had asked him to replace seven members of his coaching staff.

"He knows it's impossible for me to continue without my coaching staff, Maradona said. "I defend everyone from the masseuse to the assistant because I have values and I'm not going to change."

"I've given my all for the Argentine soccer shirt ... to wear this shirt again... And I'm convinced that the players felt this again ... maybe that was my job."

President Cristina Fernandez, who has backed Maradona's tenure since the World Cup exit, said she was sad he had been dropped.

"He took over the national team when it was a hot potato and lots of people predicted we wouldn't even qualify for South Africa," Fernandez said at the presidential palace.

"I'm really sad about Diego, I think the team put on a very dignified performance," she said. "I don't know what happened (with Grondona) but it saddens me, they should come together and fix things."

Source: Web Search

Sports brief

Published>Thu, Jul 29 10 05:48 AM

Sports Department to conduct swimming c'ship from August 4 Chandigarh: With an aim to encourage the swimmers of the city, Chandigarh Sports Department is going to organise a swimming competition from August 4 to 6 at Yoga Centre Swimming Pool , Sector 23. The championship will be held in two sections: sub-junior and junior (boys and girls). Cash prizes will be awarded to the winners, runner-ups and third place holders. There will be no entry fee for participation in this championship. The entries must be sent in writing, along with age proof document, to junior swimming coaches Jasjit Kaur and Paramjit Singh, at their respective coaching centre on or before August 3 by 5 pm. Categories and events: Under-8 (January 1, 2002 and below); events: 50m freestyle, 25m freestyle, 25m backstroke, 25m breaststroke. Under-10 (January 1, 2000 to December 31, 2001); events: 50m freestyle, 100m freestyle, 50m breaststroke, 50m backstroke, 50m butterfly. Under-12 (January 1, 1998 to December 31, 1999); events: 50m freestyle, 100m freestyle, 50m breaststroke, 100m breaststroke, 50m backstroke, 100m backstroke, 50m butterfly. Under -14 (January 1, 1996 to December 31 1997); events: 50m freestyle, 100m freestyle, 50m backstroke, 100m backstroke, 50m breaststroke, 100m breaststroke, ? 50m butterfly, 200m individual medley. Under-17 (January 1, 1993 to December 31, 1995); events: 50m freestyle, 100m freestyle, 200m freestyle, 50m backstroke, 100m backstroke, 50m breaststroke, 100m breaststroke, 50m butterfly, 100m butterfly, 200m individual medley.

CCA to honour cricket teams Chandigarh: Chandigarh Cricket Association will honour the Chandigarh team which won the Katoch Shield early this year in a function to be held at Pannu farm, Chappar Chiri near Landran at 5 pm on August 14. The association will also honour Chandigarh U-16 and women's cricket team at the function. Chandigarh Cricket Association will also honour the mediapersons from Chandigarh who have covered inter-district as well as CCA tournaments. The function will be held at Guru Nanak Public School, Sector 36 on August 7 at 3.30 pm.

Gurdeep fashions Hansraj winPANCHKULA: Gurdeep Singh (56 and 2 for 16) was the stand-out performer for Hansraj Public School, Sector 6, Panchkula as he helped the team crush Gurukul School, Sector 20, Panchkula by seven wickets to enter the quarter-finals of the Under-14 Panchkula District Inter-School Cricket Championship played at Saint Soldier Divine Public School, Sector 16, on Wednesday. Batting first, Gurukul School, Panchkula could muster 98 for the loss of eight wickets in 16 overs. Abhishek top scored with 25 runs. Shivam Arora was the pick of the bowlers as he claimed three wickets. Shikhar Dhyani, Kartik Bhardwaj and Gurdeep Singh picked up two wickets each. In reply, Hansraj Public School made 100 for 3 in just 12.3 overs. Gurdeep Singh top scored with 56 runs. Shivam Arora contributed 15 runs.

Danial stars in GMHS-36 title winCHANDIGARH: Danial was right on target as his double helped Government Model High School, Sector 36, Chandigarh beat St John's High School, Sector 43, Chandigarh by a huge margin of 6-0 in the final to win the Under-14 title of the Pre-Subroto Football Tournament held at Government Model Senior Secondary School, Sector 22, on Wednesday. The other scorers for the team were Harpal, Jatinder, Nishu and Gursimrat. Meanwhile, in the Under-17 quarter-finals, St Kabir School, Sector 26 blanked Shishu Niketan School, Sector 43 by 4-0 to enter the last four. Sachit hit a brace, while Nalir and Jasmit found the back of the net once.

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Win column trumps erratic 2010 form for Furyk

Thu, Jul 29 10 05:38 AM

Jim Furyk is usually one of the most consistent players on the PGA Tour but this year he has happily traded surprising lapses in form for two victories on the U.S. circuit.

The American world number five heads the field at this week's Greenbrier Classic in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, where another win would earn him the best return of his career in a single season.

"It would be great to have a three-win season," Furyk told reporters on the eve of Thursday's opening round at The Greenbrier. "I've never done it.

"Two was my most in a year, so it would be nice to break new ground," added the 15-times PGA Tour champion, a double winner on the U.S. circuit in 2003, 2006 and again this season.

"As I've always said, that's the goal every week. Winning golf tournaments is really what drives everyone."

U.S. Open champion at Olympia Fields in 2003, Furyk is renowned for his unorthodox swing, his driving accuracy and his consistent scoring.

Although his form this year has been a little sketchy with three missed cuts and just four top-10s in 15 PGA Tour starts, he has been happy with his overall results.

SORE SPOT

"The last couple of years, in '08 and '09, I didn't win and that was a sore spot with me," the 40-year-old said. "I talked a lot about it in the press.

"I was very consistent in those years, had a lot of top finishes and opportunities to win, but I never got over the hump."

In March, Furyk ended a title drought of nearly three years by clinching the Tampa Bay Championship and he went on to win the Heritage Classic in a playoff the following month.

"This year has been a little bit of an opposite year," he said. "I've been a little bit more inconsistent; I've missed a few cuts. I haven't had nearly as many top-10 finishes, but I've always said I would trade it.

"The goal is to win some golf tournaments so to get over that hump this year and win those events has been a lot of fun."

Furyk is scheduled to tee off with Spaniard Sergio Garcia and Australian Mark Hensby in Thursday's opening round on the par-70 Old White Course at The Greenbrier.

Should the American triumph at The Greenbrier on Sunday, he would replace South African Ernie Els at the top of the FedExCup standings.

Source: Published>

Lemaitre and Abeylegesse grab track golds

Published>Thu, Jul 29 10 05:18 AM

Christophe Lemaitre underlined his standing as the fastest European with victory in an astonishing 100 metres final at the continent's championships on Wednesday.

In the narrowest of photo-finishes, the next four athletes were all given the same time but there was no denying the Frenchman his gold.

By contrast, Turkey's Elvan Abeylegesse enjoyed a clear-cut win in the women's 10,000 metres, destroying the field with her front-running to win by more than 12 seconds.

In all, six titles were decided on the second day of the championships.

Lemaitre powered ahead over the final part of the 100 after a poor start to win in 10.11.

His rivals were also left in his wake after the finish as they had to wait for the decision of a photo finish while the 20-year-old Frenchman enjoyed his lap of honour, soaking up the admiration of the crowd at the half-empty Olympic stadium.

After what must have seemed an eternity to the athletes Britain's Mark Lewis-Francis was declared second in 10.18.

Frenchman Martial Mbandjock (third), 2006 champion Francis Obikwelu (fourth) and pre-race favourite Dwain Chambers of Britain (fifth) were all given the same time of 10.18.

"After a brilliant year my objective was gold," said Lemaitre who went under 10 seconds for the first time earlier this month.

"I didn't have a good start in the final but picked up very well on my speed. It was a brilliant final."

DISTANCE DOUBLE

While the crowd were still buzzing from the result, Europe's multi-eventers took to the track for the decathlon 400 metres knowing their job was only half done.

Ukraine's Oleksiy Kasyanov leads by just 20 points after five events from Lithuanian Darius Draudvila.

Earlier on the track as darkness started to fall, European record holder Abeylegesse took the first step towards a distance double with her comprehensive 10,000 victory.

The Ethiopian-born Turk, who also plans to run the 5,000, set a relentless pace and destroyed the field, which included 2006 champion Inga Abitova of Russia, to win in 31 minutes 10.23 seconds.

Abitova moved into second ahead of a tiring Jessica Augusto on the penultimate lap to take the silver in 31:22.83, leaving the Portuguese to settle for bronze.

"It was really hard to run because of the wind. I gave everything and finally got my first gold medal," said Abeylegesse, who has won Olympic and world silver medals and who took the 5,000 bronze at the 2006 Europeans.

Latvian Ineta Radevica was so happy she wanted to dance after upsetting the form book to win long jump gold from Portugal's Naide Gomes by virtue of a better second-best distance.

Both athletes leaped 6.92 metres but Radevica's next-best effort was 6.87 compared to 6.68 from Gomez.

CONTROL EMOTIONS

"I actually feel like dancing but I have the triple jump qualification tomorrow so I'm going to try and keep my emotions under control," the 29-year-old Latvian told reporters.

Russian Olga Kucherenko, the top-ranked European this year was third with 6.84 and 2006 champion Lyudmila Kolchanova fifth.

Former world and Olympic heptathlon champion Carolina Kluft, who missed 10 months through injury, finished 11th with 6.33 after scraping into the final as the last qualifier.

Libor Charfreitag won the men's hammer with the only throw over 80 metres.

The 32-year-old Slovakian threw 80.02 on his second trip into the circle. Italian Nicola Vizzoni added the European silver to his Olympic one with 79.12, six centimetres more than Hungary's Krisztian Pars.

Croatia's European junior discus champion Sandra Perkovic grabbed the senior title with her final throw to deny world bronze medallist Nicoleta Grasu victory.

The 38-year-old Romanian had held the lead since an opening effort of 63.48 only for Perkovic to better that with 64.67.

Olympic and world champion Olga Kaniskina burst into tears after leading a Russian sweep of the medals in the day's opening event, the women's 20-km walk.

Kaniskina led compatriot Anisya Kirdyapkina by 10 seconds at the halfway mark and continued to pull away from the field to win in a time of one hour 27 minutes and 44 seconds.

Kirdyapkina, fastest woman in the world this year, was one minute and 11 seconds behind. Vera Sokolova was third.

Source: Web Search

Suarez strike not enough for Ajax

Published>Thu, Jul 29 10 04:58 AM

Uruguay striker Luis Suarez, in the headlines at the World Cup for the handball incident against Ghana, was on target for Ajax Amsterdam in the Champions League on Wednesday but they were held 1-1 at home by PAOK Salonika.

Fenerbahce clung on for a 2-2 draw away to Young Boys Berne despite playing the entire second half with 10 men and Portugal's Braga beat Celtic 3-0 in other third qualifying round, first leg ties.

Suarez, who scored 35 league goals for Ajax last season, needed only 13 minutes to make his mark when he gave the four-times European champions an early lead against the Greeks.

Ajax failed to capitalise on their early breakthrough, however and Vladimir Ivic levelled 18 minutes from time to put PAOK in the driving seat for the second leg next week.

Suarez scored three goals at the World Cup where he helped Uruguay reach the semi-finals but was also involved in the controversial handball incident in the quarter-final against Ghana when he stopped a goal-bound shot on the line and was sent off in the last minute of extra-time.

Suarez was seen celebrating as Ghana missed the resulting penalty -- which would have given them a 2-1 win -- and Uruguay went on to win the penalty shootout.

Group stage regulars Fenerbahce twice led in Switzerland but were denied victory by a late penalty.

Emre Belozoglu gave the Turks a fifth minute lead but Argentine defender Emiliano Dudar headed Young Boys level in the 18th minute.

The hosts then took control, Moreno Costanzo hitting the post, but were stunned were Fenerbahce regained the lead just before halftime with a long-range effort by Miroslav Stoch.

Immediately after the goal, however, Fenerbahce midfielder Colin Kazim-Richards was sent off, receiving a second yellow card for petulantly throwing the ball away after conceding a free kick.

Fenerbahce survived a second-half bombardment, Young Boys again hitting the woodwork, until conceding an 89th minute penalty, converted by the Costanzo.

Swiss champions Basel won 2-0 away to Hungary's Debrecen while Kazak champions Aktobe Lento pulled off the evening's shock result with a 1-0 win over Hapoel Tel Aviv thanks a second-half Samat Smakov penalty.

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Lemaitre blazes to European 100 metres gold

Published>Thu, Jul 29 10 03:18 AM

Frenchman Christophe Lemaitre blazed to 100 metres gold at the European championships in 10.11 seconds as the next four athletes clocked the same time in a photo finish on Wednesday.

Lemaitre set off on his lap of honour wearing a cowboy hat and carrying the French flag while the others looked up at the big screen as officials decided the minor medals after running the same time of 10.18 seconds.

Britain's Mark Lewis-Francis, coached by Barcelona Olympic champion Linford Christie, took a surprise silver and Frenchman Martial Mbandjock the bronze.

Portugal's European record holder and 2006 champion Francis Obikwelu was fourth and pre-race favourite Dwain Chambers of Britain fifth.

"I didn't have a good start in the final but picked up very well on my speed," said Lemaitre, the fastest man in Europe this year after setting a national record of 9.98 this month.

"It was a brilliant final and I'm very happy tonight."

Lemaitre was the crowd favourite on a balmy evening at the Olympic stadium.

The 20-year-old received a loud cheer from spectators that defied the fact the arena was half-empty for the expected showdown with Chambers, who beat Lemaitre last month.

A hush fell in preparation for the gun and when it went off, Chambers and compatriot Lewis-Francis were quickest from the blocks.

But Lemaitre kept his cool and recovered from the slow start to power through at 60 metres.

"I did the best I could but I just wasn't good enough on the night," said Chambers, who was stripped of the 2002 European title after admitting to doping.

"You just have to take it with a smile in sport, you win some you lose some, the 32-year-old told reporters.

"Don't get me wrong, I'm disappointed but what can you do? I'm just grateful for the chance to be here.

Former champion Obikwelu was generous in his praise of the man who had succeeded him.

"Sometimes it's good to have a new champion," the Portuguese said. "He's young, he's talented and is going to get far."

Source: Web Search

Inter face Roma and Juve early in title defence

Thu, Jul 29 10 02:58 AM

Italian champions Inter Milan will visit last season's runners-up AS Roma and host traditional rivals Juventus in their fifth and sixth Serie A matches next season the draw was made on Wednesday.

The European champions, who also won the domestic cup last season to seal an unprecedented Italian treble, open their campaign at perennial strugglers Bologna but the game may be shifted from the Aug. 29 date given they face Atletico Madrid in the European Super Cup on Aug. 27.

"We play the European Super Cup just a few days earlier so we feared a long trip. Bologna is OK," Inter chief executive Ernesto Paolillo told the club website (www.inter.it).

After the games at Roma and at home to Juve, Inter play AC Milan on Nov. 14 and again on April 3 with Juve facing Roma on the same dates.

Inter, who have brought in youngster Coutinho as they seek a sixth straight scudetto and look poised to sell Maicon and Mario Balotelli, finish the season at home to Catania.

The draw was made on live television in front of a star-studded audience in Milan.

Before the ceremony, Milan chief executive Adriano Galliani told reporters that midfielder Gennaro Gattuso would be staying at the club after being linked with a move.

Roma start their season at home to promoted Cesena.

Serie A opening fixtures (Aug. 28/29 tbc)

Bari v Juventus

Bologna v Inter

Chievo v Catania

Fiorentina v Napoli

Milan v Lecce

Palermo v Cagliari

Parma v Brescia

Roma v Cesena

Sampdoria v Lazio

Udinese v Genoa

Source: Published>

Lemaitre blazes to European 100 metres gold

Published>Thu, Jul 29 10 02:38 AM

Frenchman Christophe Lemaitre blazed to 100 metres gold at the European championships on Wednesday in 10.11 seconds as the next four athletes clocked the same time in a photo finish.

Lemaitre set off on his lap of honour wearing a cowboy hat and carrying the French flag while the others looked up at the big screen as officials decided who the minor medals after they all ran the same time of 10.18 seconds.

Britain's Mark Lewis-Francis took silver and Frenchman Martial Mbandjock the bronze.

Portugal's European record holder and 2006 champion Francis Obikwelu was fourth and pre-race favourite Dwain Chambers of Britain finished fifth.

Chambers and Lewis-Francis were quickest away but Lemaitre, the fastest European this year after setting a national record of 9.98 in July, came powering through at 60 metres to cross the line first.

Source: Web Search

Lemaitre wins 100 metres at European championships

Thu, Jul 29 10 02:26 AM

Frenchman Christophe Lemaitre won the men's 100 metres final at the European championships on Wednesday in a time of 10.11 seconds.

Britain's Mark Lewis-Francis took second in 10.18 and Frenchman Martial Mbandjock was third in the same time.

The next two finishers, European record holder and 2006 champion Francis Obikwelu of Portugal and Briton Dwain Chambers were also timed at 10.18 in a photo finish.

Source: Published>

Dutch rest World Cup players for Ukraine friendly

Thu, Jul 29 10 02:16 AM

Netherlands coach Bert van Marwijk has named only one member of his World Cup squad for next month's friendly against Ukraine.

Reserve goalkeeper Michel Vorm was the only player included who was in the Dutch squad which reached the final of the tournament in South Africa, as Van Marwijk looks ahead to the team's Euro 2012 qualifying campaign.

"I don't want to use them (World Cup squad members) unecessarily at this stage," he said in a statement on Wednesday.

"Our opponent knows we'll come with a young group but for me it's an opportunity to keep an eye on these young players before the upcoming Euro qualifiers," the 58-year-old added.

Roy Beerens, Jeffrey Bruma, Siem de Jong, Erik Pieters, Ronnie Stam and Ricky van Wolfswinkel could make their international debuts against Ukraine in Kiev on Aug. 11.

Netherlands begin their Euro 2012 Group E qualifying campaign away to San Marino on Sept. 3.

The 1988 European champions are also grouped with Sweden, Finland, Hungary and Moldova.

Squad: Michel Vorm (Utrecht), Vurnon Anita (Ajax Amsterdam), Otman Bakkal (PSV Eindhoven), Roy Beerens (Heerenveen), Wout Brama (Twente Enschede), Jeffrey Bruma (Chelsea), Urby Emanuelson (Ajax Amsterdam), Orlando Engelaar (PSV Eindhoven), Theo Janssen (Twente Enschede), Siem de Jong (Ajax Amsterdam), Jeremain Lens (PSV Eindhoven), Glenn Loovens (Celtic), David Mendes da Silva (Salzburg), Erik Pieters (PSV Eindhoven), Ronnie Stam (Twente Enschede), Ron Vlaar (Feyenoord), Piet Velthuizen (Vitesse Arnhem), Ricky van Wolfswinkel (Utrecht).

Source: Published>

Friendly in Sardinia abandoned after players' fights

Thu, Jul 29 10 01:56 AM

A pre-season friendly between Sardinia's Cagliari and Corsica's Bastia was abandoned after 75 minutes on Wednesday after players repeatedly fought each other, the Italian side said in a statement.

Serie A Cagliari were beating the French team 3-0 when the referee called a halt to the match in Sardinia between two of the top teams from the neighbouring islands.

Italy World Cup goalkeeper Federico Marchetti was left out of Cagliari's side after requesting a move.

Source: Published>

Woods to seek eighth victory at Firestone

Thu, Jul 29 10 12:58 AM

Tiger Woods, winless in his first seven PGA Tour starts this year, will defend his title at next week's WGC-Bridgestone Invitational, the world number one said on Wednesday.

Woods will return to the Aug. 5-8 tournament at Firestone Country Club in Akron, Ohio, an elite event he won for a record seventh time last year after a final round five-under-par 65 to win by four strokes.

"It's one of the best courses we play all year," Woods said in a statement posted on his website on Wednesday. (http://web.tigerwoods.com). "Everything is right in front of you."

Woods, coming off a tie for 23rd at the British Open earlier this month, will then launch his bid for a 15th major title at Whistling Straits the following week.

Source: Published>

F1 acts to reduce risk of wheels breaking loose

Wed, Jul 28 10 11:58 PM

Formula One will double the number of tethers on cars next season to reduce the danger from wheels bouncing away after crashes, McLaren engineering head Paddy Lowe said on Wednesday.

Lowe told reporters in a conference call ahead of Sunday's Hungarian Grand Prix that the sport's technical working group had agreed to introduce a second tether connecting each wheel to the chassis.

"Wheel tethers are a great concern to us," he said.

"We had the tragic incident last year with Henry Surtees, and we also see wheels coming off F1 cars rather more often than we'd like and than the rules intended when tethers were introduced. They are working but they're not reliable enough."

Briton Surtees, son of former world champion John, died last July after being struck on the head by a bouncing tyre while competing in a Formula Two race at Brands Hatch.

There have been several incidents involving tyres breaking free in Formula One this season.

"What we found is that when they (the tethers) don't work they have been cut for some reason due to the nature of the accident," said Lowe.

"Our thinking is that if you put two tethers on each corner that are run independently...then we're going to drastically improve the probability that one or both tethers survive in an accident."

At present each tether must be able to withstand a minimum load of six tonnes.

Last year's Hungarian Grand Prix was overshadowed by Brazilian Felipe Massa's serious injury in qualifying, with the Ferrari driver hit on the head by a heavy spring that had fallen off compatriot Rubens Barrichello's Brawn and bounced down the track.

Source: Published>

Cal HC stays order against WBBA

Wed, Jul 28 10 11:22 PM

Kolkata, July 28 (PTI) In a relief for the West Bengal Badminton Association (WBBA), the Calcutta High Court today stayed an order by the Registrar of Firms, Societies and Non-Trading Corporations not to hold AGMs. The stay will enable the WBBA to hold AGMs for 2007-08 and 2008-09, originally scheduled for July 25, which could not be held due to scrutiny of accounts following detection of financial irregularities allegedly by the general secretary who was removed in August 2008. Justice Jayanta Kumar Biswas also directed Choten D Lama, the joint-secretary of department of commerce and industries, to be added as a party to the case and fixed August 5 for hearing the matter further. WBBA President Ushanath Banerjee told PTI: "We can now hold the pending AGMs and election after the committee members decide on a new date." The WBBA has 20 affiliated members of whom three opposed the holding of the two AGMs on the plea that it was not lawful and had approached the Registrar of Firms, Societies and Non-Trading Corporations. On July 26, the WBBA had moved the high court.

Source: Published>

India doesn't look like a number one team: Waugh

Published>Wed, Jul 28 10 11:08 PM

India is currently struggling against Sri Lanka and does not look like they are the number one Test team in the world, reckons former Australian skipper Steve Waugh.

"India are predominantly a batting side but their bowling is not strong enough. Of course they have a few injuries with Zaheer out of the team. But they are struggling against Sri Lanka and doesn't look like a number one side," Waugh said on the sidelines of a promotional event here.

Asked about the upcoming Australia's tour of India, Waugh said it would be tough series and can go either way.

"India always is a difficult team to beat at home. But they have a few bowling issues. Even Harbhajan Singh had a mixed year and has not been consistent. Well, of course he always gets pumped up against Australia. It would be a tough series," he said.

The former skipper also felt the retirement of so many quality players have stripped Australia off its' invincible aura and they no more have the same intimidating factor.

"They probably have lost their aura. Australia dominated world cricket from 1995 to 2005 but now they no more have the intimidating factor. They are not feared anymore," said Waugh,

"It happens when you lose so many good players in short time. It happened to West Indies, they dominated in the 70s and 80s. Now there are five teams like Australia, South Africa, England, India and Sri Lanka who are at even," Waugh added.

Sri Lankan spin wizard Muttiah Muralitharan retired recently and Waugh feels even though it would be difficult to emulate him, there is probably some talent waiting to emerge.

"It is difficult to have bowlers like Murali, Shane (Warne) and (Anil) Kumble, all in the same era. They took like 2000 wickets among them. But the game is always bigger than individuals and I believe there is some talent out their ready to pop up anytime," Waugh said.

"There are a couple of spinners who are doing well like Graeme Swann. He has been a steady bowler and last year has been most successful bowler. Harbhajan (Singh) has been good and plays well against Australia. Mendis is also an amazing bowler and he will surely come out of his bad patch," he said.

Waugh, who was here to conduct a school debate competition on 'Commercialisation of Sports', said the Indian Premier League poses a big threat for the youngsters of India.

"It (IPL) is always dangerous for Indian young players because straight away after bursting onto the scene they get endorsements and huge money. This can take away the focus and hunger from the youngsters.

"There is a big responsility on the managers and players to help them keep and maintain a balance or else they would regret 20 years down the line," he said.

Waugh also said he didn't have the time to get engaged in IPL as he was too busy with his other commitments.

"I was approached for the IPL but I could not have given 100 per cent as I am too busy with my charity programmes and business," he said.

Asked if he endorses day and night Tests, Waugh said, "It is better for a few countries. Even in India, the popularity is dwindling so if a few night Tests can help to bring the craze back then its good."

Source: Web Search

No faults in 2010 Commonwealth Games stadiums: M S Gill

Published>Wed, Jul 28 10 10:38 PM

New Delhi, July 28 (ANI): Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports M S Gill on Wednesday said that there are no faults in the stadiums designed for the 2010 Commonwealth Games (CWG).

He complained the media had been wrongly depicting the preparations of the CWG, asserting that nine out of the 13 stadiums are ready for the upcoming event.

"The fact remains these stadiums have no faults, there is no leakage anywhere, and the architecture and engineering is the first time in India even the Public Works Department (PWD) has seen," said Gill.

Gill further said that he has been dedicated to his work since he resumed his office on April 6, 2008, and maintained that he would complete his part of work in time for the CWG.

"I made sure, which was necessary, that all requirements are fully funded in good time. I have seen in my life that projects like any kind in the country, often they linger, they languish, because funding is not there," said Gill.

"In this case, all the funding, whatever increases also, after checking by officers, were given by mid 2009," he added while speaking to the media after the Parliament session of the day.

Earlier in June, Gill had said that the infrastructure for the 2010 games is one of the finest in the world.

The Commonwealth Games 2010 will be held from October 3 to 14 in the national capital.

The 2010 Commonwealth Games in New Delhi is being touted as the biggest international sporting event to be hosted by India since the 1982 Delhi Asian Games.

Its success is being seen as the first step for India to bid for bigger events. (ANI)

Source: Web Search

India's hopes on Gowda, Tintu Luka at Asian All-Star meet

Published>Wed, Jul 28 10 10:28 PM

New Delhi, July 28 (IANS) All eyes will be national discuss record holder Vikas Gowda when the Asian All-Star Athletics Meet starts here Thursday at the refurbished Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.

The US-based Gowda has been hogging the limelight with his season's best of 63.22m, will India's hope for a gold medal.

In women's shot-put, India's hopes will be on national record holder Seema Antil, who has been struggling.

In women's long jump, India's hopes will be on M.A. Prajusha, Mayookha Johny and Reshmi Bose, who will be facing a tough fight from Uzbekistan's multi-event specialist Tatyana Konichsheva.

Sri Lanka's Asian champion Manjula Kumara Wijesekara will be the star to watch out for in the men's high jump. He will get some tough competition from Kazakhstan's Vitaliy Tsykunov and Asian Indoor Games winner and Doha Asian Games champion Jean-Claude Rabbath of Lebanon.

Indian middle distance star Tintu Luka, a student of the legendary P.T. Usha is a strong bet in the women's 800m. India's Sini Jose will also be among the top draws in the women's 400m.

Indian distance runners Kavita Raut and Preeja Sreedharan look formidable in the women's 5000m.

Source: Web Search

Bedi was an ordinary bowler: Muralitharan

Published>Wed, Jul 28 10 10:22 PM

Colombo, July 28 (IANS) Sri Lanka's legendary spinner Muttiah Muralitharan Wednesday hit back at his most vocal critic Bishan Singh Bedi for the first time, terming the former India captain an 'ordinary' bowler.

Muralitharan, who retired from Test cricket earlier this month with a record 800 wickets, said Bedi had no right to comment on him.

'Bedi needs to look into the mirror. What he has done can be achieved by any ordinary bowler today. The few wickets that he has taken is not a major feat. There are 30-40 bowlers today who have done that with ease. He is making all these comments on me because he wants to be popular,' CNN-IBM quoted Muralitharan as saying.

Bedi has been calling the Sri Lankan a 'chucker' ever since he was charged for incorrect action by the International Cricket Council (ICC) in 1995.

Source: Web Search

Courts stay HI election, FIH official holds out a veiled threat

Published>Wed, Jul 28 10 09:58 PM

New Delhi, July 28 (IANS) International Hockey Federation (FIH) vice president Antonio Von Ondarza Wednesday held out a veiled threat of sanctions if Hockey India (HI) does not hold its election by July 31, the deadline set by the world body.

Though Ondaza did not spell out the sanctions, it is clear that India's participation in women's hockey World Cup at Rosario, Argentina from Aug 30 can be in jeopardy after the Delhi and Bombay High Court stayed the election which was to be held Wednesday.

Ondarza, however, said 'sanctioning the athletes' is the last thing the FIH wants.

The IHF functionary has significantly reminded all stake holders of hockey in the country that the FIH had derecognised the Indian Hockey Federation (IHF) way back in 2000 and how could it be the recognised body here.

There was an air of uncertainty when HI members walked in for the general body meeting and as the chair was about to call the election it was served the Bombay High Court's order staying the election for three weeks on a petition by the Mumbai Hockey Association (MHA).

By the evening, the Delhi High Court, which had asked the government Tuesday to issue a clarification that HI is a private body as IHF is the only recognised federation to run the sport in the country, stayed the elections following sports ministry's failure to do so. The High Court had lifted the suspension on IHF.

The sports ministry told the court that it recognises both the HI and K.P.S Gill-led IHF. The court said it was a violation of the guideline that there can be only one recognised body for the sport and stayed the elections till further orders.

Ondarza, who is also the FIH's observer for the election, was at his wits' end explaining the situation arising out of the court orders.

'Hockey is not being played on the field but in the courts. I do not know where we are heading to. There seems no end to it.'

'July 31 is the deadline for HI to hold the election and after that HI will not be part of FIH statutes. But I cannot take a decision, I have to consult. We have our rules and regulations and we have to answer our stakeholders. We had given provisional acceptance to HI till July 31. The deadline ends in a couple of days, we do not know what is going to happen.

Asked whether India will be barred from participating in the women's World Cup as FIH had warned HI, Ondarza said: 'We are here for the good of the athletes. We do not want to impose sanctions, but we have to do something. All I can say is that the ball is in the court of India today. I ask everyone, the government, the courts, the lawyers and all the stakeholders to set the ball rolling. We do not want to take any drastic steps, have your elections immediately.'

'In the last two years we have gone from one deadline to another. The world cup was a success and we have plans for Indian hockey to get back to its glorious past.

'I have come here so many times. We have put all our efforts, but every time something happens in the court.'

'I am flabbergasted. We have de-recognised IHF way back in 2000 because of its failure to unify the men's and women's units so how can they be the recognised body,' said Ondarza.

'Indian Hockey Confederation (IHC) was formed but only on paper. It never functioned properly and there were other problems with it. There were so many communications from both sides. We are not here to look into all these things.'

'We told HI to hold the election before World Cup, but it was not done. We even thought of moving the World Cup, but it was not possible to make a last minute change. HI said it will complete the process by July 31 and we thought there was ample time and accepted it.'

Meanwhile, HI is planning to move the Supreme Court 'expedetiously' in a couple of days.

'We are moving the Supreme Court within Friday against the Bombay High Court's stay order. There are other court cases in almost every state. We will ask the Supreme Court to take up all the cases,' said HI counsel Hitesh Jain.

Source: Web Search

50-50 chance for Australia in Ashes: Steve Waugh

Published>Wed, Jul 28 10 09:28 PM

New Delhi, July 28 (IANS) Australian great Steve Waugh said Wednesday that both England and Australia have equal chance of winning the Ashes cricket series starting in November.

The former captain admitted that the Australian team has lost its aura of invincibility that it once had, but still the series against arch-rivals England will be evenly contested.

'Honestly, Australia are no more a dominant side in world cricket. There is still some (dominance) left for the Ashes but I see a 50-50 chance for both teams in winning the trophy. Though Australia might have a slight home advantage,' said Waugh, on the sidelines of a promotional event here.

Australia thrashed England 5-0 the last time the Ashes were contested down under in 2006. England returned the favour by winning the home series in 2008.

'The competition is getting tougher and it is good for the game. In my view, Australia, England, South Africa, India and Sri Lanka are the top five teams in the world. It is very hard to dominate cricket these days,' said Waugh.

On Australia's aura of invincibility coming to an end, Waugh added: 'The Australian team dominated the sport from 1995 to 2005-06. It is not the case anymore. The intimidation factor is missing in the current team. However, it still remains a strong team, especially in the one-day format.'

He also feels that Pakistan's recent victory against Australia in the second test match is good for the game.

'I am disappointed that Australia lost but Pakistan's win is a good sign for the game. Mohammed Amer bowled magnificently in the series and he will be the next bowling super star,' he said.

The Ashes series will start Nov 25 with the first test at Gabba.

Source: Web Search

Bolt to face Gay and Powell in Stockholm

Wed, Jul 28 10 09:18 PM

Triple Olympic champion Usain Bolt and top sprint rivals Tyson Gay and Asafa Powell will meet for the first time this year in a 100 metres showdown at the Stockholm Diamond League meeting next week.

The clash on Aug. 6 will be the first including Jamaican Bolt, American Gay and Bolt's compatriot Powell since they took gold, silver and bronze at the 2009 Berlin world championships, meeting director Rajne Soderberg told Reuters on Wednesday.

It will match the three fastest men of all-time with Bolt the world record holder at 9.58 seconds, followed by Gay (9.69) and Powell (9.72).

"The last time Usain ran here Asafa beat him just before the 2008 Beijing Olympics," Soderberg said by telephone. "I think it was the only (100 metres) race he has lost in his (professional) life so he probably wants to come back for revenge.

Bolt has beaten Gay in both of their 100 metres races. He holds an 8-1 edge over Powell, the loss coming in the 2008 Stockholm meeting.

Weeks later, Bolt set world records in the 100 and 200 and helped Jamaica eclipse the 4x100 record at Beijing. He went on to break both sprint records at last year's world championships.

Powell and Gay had already been scheduled to take part in the meeting and negotiations to include Bolt began several weeks ago, Soderberg said.

"He (Bolt) had missed a couple of races (with injury) and did not want to run more 200 metres, so it is a great honour to have him. This will increase interest in the meeting for the future and (talk of the race) will linger on for years."

The three also will meet in the Diamond League final at Brussels on Aug. 27.

Source: Published>

MCD yet to start upgrading road near Karni Singh Stadium

Wed, Jul 28 10 09:08 PM

New Delhi, July 28 (PTI) With the Commonwealth Games just two months away, MCD is yet to commence improvement and strengthening of a road leading to the shooting venue of the mega sports event. A proposal on upgrading the road near Karni Singh Stadium in Tughlakabad, pending for over two years, was postponed by a meeting of the MCD Standing Committee today after the area councillor raised objections. Councillor Sarita Chaudhary wants that the widening of the road also be done along with the improvement, but MCD officials argue that this will involve cutting of trees and a prolonged procedural delay. For work to begin, the Standing Committee needs to give its approval following which the proposal will be sent to the MCD House. MCD officials insist that the area where road widening is being proposed by the councilor is part of the southern ridge. "It will take a lot of time to get clearance related to the Indian Forest Act as the road widening will involve felling at least 1,000 trees. As not much time is left for the Games, the proposal for improving the existing road should be allowed. The road widening project can be taken up later," said a senior MCD official. Chaudhary said road widening is important as it will help ease the traffic congestion in the area. "It is not that trees were not cut for any Games projects in Delhi. If we cut some trees, will can plant double the number. But traffic situation is very bad on the stretch and widening of the road is quite important. I have been raising this issue for the last so many years but nothing is being done," she said. PTI SDG

Source: Published>

Petacchi stays silent as he meets doping investigators

Wed, Jul 28 10 08:38 PM

Italian Alessandro Petacchi, the points classification winner in the recent Tour de France, stayed silent on Wednesday when he met police investigating if he has committed a new doping offence.

"He wanted to speak but I preferred that he kept the right to remain silent," his lawyer Virginio Angelini told reporters after the meeting in Florence.

Petacchi said he was innocent when news broke about the probe during the Tour and his Lampre team said they would stick by him as he is innocent until proven guilty.

Police have not specified what Petacchi is accused of but raided his house in April as part of a long-running probe into doping in Italian sport.

The 36-year-old was banned in 2007 for using excess salbutamol, which he blamed on the overuse of an asthma inhaler.

Italian cycling has been riddled with high-profile doping cases in recent years.

Source: Published>

Wankhede stadium renovation not behind schedule: BCCI

Wed, Jul 28 10 08:22 PM

New Delhi, Jul 28 (PTI) The BCCI today dismissed media reports that renovation at Mumbai''s Wankhede stadium was running behind schedule and claimed the venue would be ready in time for next year''s cricket World Cup final. Board Chief Administrative Officer Ratnakar Shetty said in a statement that Wankhede Stadium will be ready by December 31 and there was no truth in the report that DY Patil Stadium has been kept as a standby venue. "As the Tournament Director of ICC CWC-2011, I would like to place on record that the ICC Committee, keeping track of the preparedness of the World Cup venues, is satisfied with the progress of the work at the Wankhede Stadium," Shetty said. "The stadium would be ready by end of December 2010 which is the deadline given to Mumbai Cricket Association. The central Organising Committee of ICC CWC-2011 has not taken any decision regarding D Y Patil ground as an altenative venue," he said. The report has said that the Wankhede Stadium would miss the November 30 deadline and that the Cricket Board has decided to keep much-in-shape DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai as standby to avoid any last minute glitches.

Source: Published>

Murali will be difficult to emulate: Tendulkar

Wed, Jul 28 10 08:18 PM

Colombo, July 28 (PTI) Batting icon Sachin Tendulkar today said India have sorted Ajanatha Mendis and they are no easy prey for the Sri Lankan spinner now. Mendis, who tormented India in their last tour and also in the only practice game, today took two of the four wickets but gave away 83 runs in 25 overs. "He is a difficult bower. But our batsmen have sorted him out. We have figured out his strengths and so we try not to bat to his strengths. He has done well against us but now it is an even contest," Tendulkar, who scored his 48th Test century today, said. Mendis trapped both Murali Vijay and VVS Laxman while off-spinner Suraj Randiv dismissed Sehwag and Rahul Dravid Tendukar praised both Mendis and Randiv for their efforts but said it will be difficult for them to fill in the vaccum created by retirement of Muttiah Muralitharan. "Both the bowlers, did very well. Of course, it is always difficult to emulate Murali and it is not going to be easy for Mendis and Randiv. It would be a big responsibility for them to fill up his place," Tendulkar said. Even at the age of 36, Tendulkar spent around 15 hours on the field today while fielding and batting and the senior batsman said he works a lot to keep his fitness intact. "Recovery is always a very important issue, specially in conditions like this which are very tough. One needs plenty of rest and so it would be an early night for me tonight so that I get up and start fresh tomorrow. "Tomorrow in the morning, I would probably face some throw downs so that the eyes gets going and body keeps moving before the start of play," he said.

Source: Published>

Rpting after re-phrasing the headline

Wed, Jul 28 10 08:08 PM

We have sorted out Mendis: Tendulkar Colombo, July 28 (PTI) Batting icon Sachin Tendulkar today said India have sorted Ajanatha Mendis and they are no easy prey for the Sri Lankan spinner now. Mendis, who tormented India in their last tour and also in the only practice game ahead of current series, today took two of the four wickets but gave away 83 runs in 25 overs. "He is a difficult bower. But our batsmen have sorted him out. We have figured out his strengths and so we try not to bat to his strengths. He has done well against us but now it is an even contest," Tendulkar, who scored his 48th Test century today, said. Mendis trapped both Murali Vijay and VVS Laxman while off-spinner Suraj Randiv dismissed Sehwag and Rahul Dravid Tendukar praised both Mendis and Randiv for their efforts but said it will be difficult for them to fill in the vaccum created by retirement of Muttiah Muralitharan. "Both the bowlers, did very well. Of course, it is always difficult to emulate Murali and it is not going to be easy for Mendis and Randiv. It would be a big responsibility for them to fill up his place," Tendulkar said. Even at the age of 36, Tendulkar spent around 15 hours on the field today while fielding and batting and the senior batsman said he works a lot to keep his fitness intact. "Recovery is always a very important issue, specially in conditions like this which are very tough. One needs plenty of rest and so it would be an early night for me tonight so that I get up and start fresh tomorrow. "Tomorrow in the morning, I would probably face some throw downs so that the eyes gets going and body keeps moving before the start of play," he said.

Source: Published>

Murali will be difficult to emulate: Tendulkar

Wed, Jul 28 10 07:52 PM

Colombo, July 28 (PTI) Batting icon Sachin Tendulkar today said India have sorted Ajanatha Mendis and they are no easy prey for the Sri Lankan spinner now. Mendis, who tormented India in their last tour and also in the only practice game, today took two of the four wickets but gave away 83 runs in 25 overs. "He is a difficult bower. But our batsmen have sorted him out. We have figured out his strengths and so we try not to bat to his strengths. He has done well against us but now it is an even contest," Tendulkar, who scored his 48th Test century today, said. Mendis trapped both Murali Vijay and VVS Laxman while off-spinner Suraj Randiv dismissed Sehwag and Rahul Dravid Tendukar praised both Mendis and Randiv for their efforts but said it will be difficult for them to fill in the vaccum created by retirement of Muttiah Muralitharan. "Both the bowlers, did very well. Of course, it is always difficult to emulate Murali and it is not going to be easy for Mendis and Randiv. It would be a big responsibility for them to fill up his place," Tendulkar said. Even at the age of 36, Tendulkar spent around 15 hours on the field today while fielding and batting and the senior batsman said he works a lot to keep his fitness intact. "Recovery is always a very important issue, specially in conditions like this which are very tough. One needs plenty of rest and so it would be an early night for me tonight so that I get up and start fresh tomorrow. "Tomorrow in the morning, I would probably face some throw downs so that the eyes gets going and body keeps moving before the start of play," he said.

Source: Published>

Centenary celebrations of Mohun Bagan's historic IFA Shield win begin Thursday

Published>Wed, Jul 28 10 07:38 PM

Kolkata, July 28 (IANS) The centenary celebrations of Mohun Bagan's historic feat of becoming the first Indian team to win the IFA Shield in 1911 kicks off Thursday with the release of a first day cover by the postal department and conferring of the club's highest honour 'Mohun Bagan Ratna' posthumously to ten of the 11 players who participated in the Shield final.

Sibdas Bhaduri, skipper of the side that defeated British army side East Yorkshire Regiment 2-1 in the title clash July 29, 1911, has been given the honour earlier.

The victory had electrified the entire country then fighting to gain independence from colonial rule as it was the first time that an Indian club succeeded in lifting the coveted Shield by beating the British at their own game.

The 121-year old club celebrates the day every year as 'Mohun Bagan Day' to commemorate the famous win.

The highlight of the programme at the club tent Thursday is the release of the special cover by West Bengal Governor M.K. Narayanan and the launch of a music album of the soon-to-be-released Bengali movie 'Egaro' (The Eleven) that tells the fascinating story of the epic victory.

Families of the 10 footballers would then be handed the Mohun Bagan Ratna.

Besides, three exhibition games involving junior and former players, artists and the media would be played in the afternoon.

'We celebrate July 29 as Mohun Bagan Day every year. But of course this year is very special. Not only every Mohun Bagan supporter or soccer enthusiast, but all Indians should take pride in the achievement of Sibdas Bhaduri and the other footballers.

'It is a day of nostalgia, and thanksgiving for us. By handing over Mohun Bagan Ratna to the families of the footballers, none of whom is with us now, we are saluting these immortal heroes who won the Shield final against all odds,' Mitra told IANS.

Source: Web Search

SPORT-RACE

Wed, Jul 28 10 07:22 PM

Mysore, Jul 28 (PTI) Following are the results of 12th day races held here today. 1st race: Queen Of The Hills Plate 1400 M. Callidora (Asra Fazili & Mrs Zozrah Shojafard) 56.5 Ravinder S first Smile Again 53 S Mubarak second Heros Dominance 60.5 Janardhan P third Hi Heineken 60.5 Md.Shoaib fourth Not Run: Prowl King & Sauce Piquant Rest 10 ran Won by: 1 L, NK and 1/2 Ls Time : One minute, 31.26 seconds Tote : Rs 37 for win, Rs 15, Rs 18 and Rs 12 for places Winner trained by : Md.Sajid Favourite : Heros Dominance Forecast : Rs 310 Quinella : Rs 95 SHP : Rs 51 Trin : 70 pct Rs 400 : 30 pct Rs 86. .

Source: Published>

India doesn't deserve to be No.1 Test team: Steve Waugh

Published>Wed, Jul 28 10 07:18 PM

New Delhi, July 28 (IANS) Former Australian captain Steve Waugh feels that the Indian cricket team doesn't deserve to be the No.1 Test side in the world.

In the light of India's struggling performance in Sri Lanka, Waugh said: 'India doesn't look like the No.1 side. The Indian team is struggling at the moment with their bowling and the team does not have the bowlers to take 20 wickets.'

The 45-year-old legendary batsman said India are only a tough team to beat at home, and it will be difficult for Australia to defeat them in the series, comprising two Tests and three one-day internationals, that starts Oct 1 with the first Test in Mohali.

'It will be close and a tough series. The team which plays better cricket will win,' said Waugh.

Waugh, who was in the capital for a promotional event, said the Indian team is suffering due to the absence of injured fast bowling spearhead Zaheer Khan.

'India are a very good side. The batting line up is among the best in the world. But the bowling attack seems weak in the absence of senior bowler like Zaheer Khan,' he said.

Waugh was also disappointed with an inconsistent Harbhajan Singh.

'I don't see a match winning spinner in the team. Harbhajan Singh is good but he is not consistent. He only seems to be doing well against Australia. India's bowling has weakened after the retirement of Kumble,' Waugh said.

Source: Web Search

Seeking job reservation, Jat community threaten to disrupt CWG

Wed, Jul 28 10 06:52 PM

New Delhi, Jul 28 (PTI) A large number of Jat community members protesting for reservation in jobs attempted to storm the Commonwealth Games office here this afternoon but were prevented by police. The protestors marched towards the Games'' headquarters from their protest site, a few hundred metres away at Jantar Mantar, police said. However, due to a large number of police personnel deployed near the protest site the protestors were prevented from reaching the office. The Jat Mahasabha, which is spearheading the protest, threatened that they will try everything possible to disrupt the sporting extravaganza if their demand was not met with. PTI SJY

Source: Published>

High court raps centre for stand on Hockey India

Published>Wed, Jul 28 10 06:38 PM

New Delhi, July 28 (IANS) The Delhi High Court Wednesday rapped the central government for not complying with its order on issuing a clarification that Hockey India (HI) is a private body.

It asked the government to file its reply within three weeks with its explanation on the issue. With this, the HI elections slated for Wednesday were adjourned.

On Tuesday, the court had asked the government and HI to issue a clarification by the evening to all the sport units in the states.

But despite the court order, the sports ministry said that both the Indian Hockey Federation (IHF), which was banned by Indian Olympic Association (IOA), and HI are recognised bodies.

Furious over the government's stand, Justice S. Murlidhar said that until and unless government does not clarify its stand, HI elections cannot be held.

The court also made it clear that the elections in HI will not be allowed if the confusion persists. The court July 27 had said that IHF is the only recognised authority to run hockey in the country.

It had also asked the sports ministry and IOA to inform all the state units that HI is a private body. The court also asked the government to withdraw its observer appointed to monitor the HI election.

Source: Web Search

Tendulkar slams century as India fightback bravely

Wed, Jul 28 10 06:22 PM

T V Sriram Colombo, Jul 28 (PTI) Sachin Tendulkar cracked his 48th Test century to lead a spirited fightback as India recovered from three quick jolts to keep themselves afloat in the second cricket Test against Sri Lanka here today. Tendulkar (108 not out) showed great character and temparament to score his first century on Sri Lankan soil in 11 years as he anchored the innings brilliantly to steer the visitors to 382 for for four at close on the third day, still needing 61 runs to avoid the follow on. Virender Sehwag missed his century by just one run while debutant Suresh Raina was the other notable performer with a sparkling unbeaten 66. It was a much-improved display by the Indians who made sure that there was no repeat of Galle where the famed batting order had succumbed rather tamely. Raina was giving Tendulkar company at stumps on a day which saw 287 runs being scored and four wickets falling at the Sinhalese Sports Club ground. India''s first objective will be to avoid the follow and then come as close as possible to Sri Lanka''s mammoth first innings total of 642 for four declared. If India carry on in the same way tomorrow, a draw appears to be the only result possible as the track has shown no signs of breaking up. After Sehwag provided the early fireworks, it was champion batsman Tendulkar who stole the spotlight with a fine exhibition of strokeplay and application to save the blushes for India who were in a spot of bother at one stage. Tendulkar made the most of a dropped chance when he was on 29, wicketkeeper Prasanna Jayawardene spilling a simple catch off Dilhara Fernando. But that was the only blemish from the star batsman as he gradually opened up to unleash a flurry of strokes. The champion batsmen had last scored a century in Sri Lanka in 1999 at the same venue. Resuming at the overnight score of 95 for no loss in response to Sri Lanka''s mammoth 642 for four declared, the Indians got off to a solid start with Virender Sehwag and Murali Vijay putting on a 165-run opening partnership. But the scrip changed dramatically just half an hour before the lunch break with the visitors losing Sehwag (99) Vijay (58) and Rahul Dravid (3) in quick succession with debutant off-spinner Suraj Randiv striking twice. Sehwag, who resumed at overnight 64, looked set for a big innings but missed out on his 21st Test century by attempting a reckless shot. More PTI TVS MRM

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Bin Hammam backing bolsters Qatar 2022 bid

Published>Wed, Jul 28 10 06:18 PM

Qatar's bid to host the 2022 World Cup received a huge boost on Wednesday when Asian Football Confederation (AFC) President Mohamed Bin Hammam threw his weight behind his country's campaign.

The support of Bin Hammam, also a FIFA Executive Committee member, was warmly welcomed by the tiny Gulf emirate, whose campaign to bring the world's biggest soccer tournament to the Middle East for the first time was initially considered an outside bet.

"I am grateful for the support shown by (Bin Hammam)," Qatari bid CEO Hassan Al-Thawadi told Reuters on the sidelines of the Soccerex Asian forum in Singapore.

"He has always understood the benefits that a World Cup will bring to Qatar and the Middle East, and he has been pioneering in his vision.

"A World Cup in Qatar will be an historic opportunity for FIFA, for the teams, officials, fans and the people of the Arab world, helping bridging cultures between the East and the West and above all changing the perception of the region."

If, as widely expected, the World Cup goes to Europe in 2018, Qatar will be competing with United States as well as AFC heavy hitters South Korea, Japan and Australia for the right to host the 2022 tournament.

Al-Thawadi said that Qatar, whose team have never qualified or competed at the World Cup, has had to overcome doubts about the seriousness of their bid.

"At the start people were sceptical about our bid, today we have got followers.

"That was our biggest obstacle, that people did not know about Qatar, they always doubted the seriousness of the bid but as time moved along, as people started seeing us more and more, the reality has moved on."

ONE VOTE

Speaking earlier at Soccerex, a football business and networking event, Bin Hammam revealed to reporters he would back his home country in the FIFA vote.

"I have one vote ... and frankly speaking I will vote for Qatar, but if Qatar is not in the running I will vote for another Asian country," Bin Hammam said.

The winning bid, along with the host of the 2018 tournament, will be announced by FIFA in Zurich on Dec. 2, something Bin Hammam said he did not initially agree with.

"I was against deciding two World Cup bid decisions in the same room on the same day, but most of my colleagues were with that option so I have to respect their experience and wisdom and most of them are more experienced than me," he added.

If successful, Qatar would become Asia's second World Cup host after South Korea and Japan co-hosted the 2002 tournament.

Source: Web Search

India 382 for 4 at close on day three

Wed, Jul 28 10 05:52 PM

Colombo, July 28 (PTI) India were 382 for four in their first innings in reply to Sri Lanka''s 642 for 4 declared at close on day three of the second cricket Test here today. Sachin Tendulkar (108) and Suresh Raina (66) were at the crease. Brief Scores: Sri Lanka 1st Innings: 642 for four declared. India 1st innings: 382 for 4 in 108 overs (Sachin Tendulkar 108 batting, Virender Sehwag 99, Murali Vijay 58; Suraj Randiv 2/108, Ajantha Mendis 2/92).

Source: Published>

Work on Commonwealth Games sites claims 42 lives: Govt

Wed, Jul 28 10 05:38 PM

New Delhi, Jul 28 (PTI) The Government today said 42 labourers have died in connection with work on various Commonwealth Games sites in the national capital while 18 others have suffered injuries while working at different sites of Delhi Metro. Actions have been taken against employers in connection with such accidents, which were found to be technical in nature, Minister of State for Labour Harish Rawat informed the Rajya Sabha in a written reply. He said 78 prosecutions have been filed and 41 convicted for violating the provisions of safety and health measures. To another question, he said as per a Delhi High Court directive, the city government has undertaken the work of registration of building workers and till March-end, 25,682 construction workers have been registered. They include those engaged in Commonwealth Games project and the Delhi Metro.PTI SGI

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Pak pace trio can put England on back foot: Sarfraz

Published>Wed, Jul 28 10 01:08 PM

Karachi, July 28 (ANI): Former Test pacer Sarfraz Nawaz feels Pakistan can only think of a victory against England if its bowlers give devastating performance.

"Pakistani pace attack is very devastating right now. They have been in good form and hopefully they would remain in form and fit. We only won the Test match against Australia because of the bowlers," the Dawn quoted Sarfraz, as saying.

"One bowler could do nothing as the batsmen would start playing defensive game against the bowler who is in form and would pull runs when the other bowler comes in. So a combination of two or more in-form bowlers is devastating, which Pakistan right now is enjoying," he said.

"England would be dangerous as their batsmen and bowlers are in form. Moreover, they would be playing on home ground, which certainly gives an edge to any team."

However, he was critical of Pakistan's batters, saying the team has no player who could play at number five or six.

"At the time when number five or number six player comes on the crease, the condition changes and the pitch gets slower and loses its bounce. So, I think the condition would be good for youngster Umar Amin and he could respond to that situation well," Sarfraz said.

Pakistan will play four-Test series against England with the first match starting from Thursday at Trent Bridge. (ANI)

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Lunch scoreboard: India vs. Sri Lanka, Day 3, Second Test

Published>Wed, Jul 28 10 12:58 PM

Colombo, July 28 (IANS) The following is the scoreboard at lunch on the third day of the second cricket Test match between India and Sri Lanka at the Sinhalese Sports Club here Wednesday.

Sri Lanka 1st innings: 642 for four declared

India 1st innings (overnight 95 for no loss):

Murali Vijay lbw Mendis 58

Virender Sehwag st Prasanna b Randiv 99

Rahul Dravid lbw Randiv 3

Sachin Tendulkar batting 2

V.V.S.Laxman batting 0

Extras (b 1, w 3, nb 7) 11

Total (for three wickets in 43 overs) 173

Fall of wickets: 1-165 (Sehwag, 36.1 overs), 2-169 (Vijay, 37.5), 3-173 (Dravid, 40.5)

Bowling:

Damika Prasad 3-0-27-0

Dilhara Fernando 14-0-65-0

Angelo Mathews 9-1-24-0

Suraj Randiv 7-3-18-2

Ajantha Mendis 10-1-38-1

Umpires: Daryl Harper (Australia) and Rod Tucker (Australia)

TV umpire: Ranmore Martinesz

Match referee: Andy Pycroft (Zimbabwe)

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