Lankan tail corners India with both, bat and ball

Sat, Aug 07 10 12:27 PM

Colombo, Aug. 6 -- As much as Muttiah Muralitharan's farewell, Suresh Raina's century on debut and Sachin Tendulkar's double, the three-Test series between India and Sri Lanka will be a remembered as a great tale of the tail. Lasith Malinga and Rangana Herath started it with a 115-run partnership for the eighth wicket in Galle. Abhimanyu Mithun, Ishant Sharma and Pragyan Ojha then teamed up with veteran VVS Laxman to give India a glimmer of hope in the second innings. Though their combined tally of 69 runs didn't matter much, their survival for almost three hours was frustrating for the Lankan bowlers. But over the three days of the third Test, the P. Sara Oval has witnessed some of the best batting displays by tail-enders. On Day Two, Suraj Randiv and Ajantha Mendis held fort for a while to aid Thilan Samaraweera score from the other end. Had the last four wickets not added 66 runs, the Lankan total would never have read 425. Then on Thursday, it was the turn of Mithun and Amit Mishra. When Mishra joined the former with India stuttering at 350 for seven, had it not been for their 64-run stand for the eighth wicket, India wouldn't have got the slender 11-run advantage in the first essay. But Mendis took the tail-enders' tale to greater heights on Friday, rescuing Sri Lanka from the jaws of defeat and then putting his team on the brink of a 2-0 series victory. When Mendis came in to bat eight minutes before lunch, Sri Lanka were leading by 114 runs, having lost six wickets for 80 runs in the morning session. Though the pitch was not doing much, but thanks to some tidy bowling by Ojha and Mishra backed by poor short selection by the Lankan middle order, India succeeded in picking five wickets for just 42 runs. At 87 for seven, Samaraweera, the only centurion in the match so far, was joined by Malinga. The duo's 38-run stand made it clear that though the wicket was offering slow turn, if the batsmen applied themselves properly, they could score at will. However, Sri Lanka were fighting with their backs to the wall when Malinga perished off Virender Sehwag. In came Mendis and, along with Samaraweera, saw off the tricky period before lunch.

Mendis's 78 and his 118-run stand with Samaraweera set India a difficult target of 257 to chase. The Indian top order lived up to its reputation in the fourth innings, with Sehwag, Rahul Dravid and Murali Vijay perishing before bails were drawn at 53 for three.

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No caterer for Games?

Sat, Aug 07 10 12:21 PM

New Delhi, Aug. 6 -- The Commonwealth Games organisers' problem of finding a suitable caterer for its venues just got messed up some more. The Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), one of the frontrunners for the catering contract, has just lost its rights to provide catering services on trains. Indian Railways in its newly formed catering policy has just stripped IRCTC of all rights to serve food on moving trains, even though the experience in providing food to a mass based clientele on trains formed the basis of the corporation's claims to the Games catering contract. The corporation would now sell food only at food plazas at select stations, the policy dictates, and its current resources towards catering will be curtailed. Officials at the Organising Committee (OC) are in doubts about the corporation's capability to cater at the venues. "How can we trust a company's capability when its own parent organisation doesn't trust it with this job?" a senior OC official said on condition of anonymity. While IRCTC refused to speak on its proposal for catering for the Games, sources said it has already gone ahead and hired infrastructure such as space in Delhi and deputed some officials after "strong signals" from the OC that it could bag the contract. "We serve one million meals a day (in the railway network and elsewhere), so how can our capability as a caterer be in doubts?" asked a senior IRCTC official.

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Consultants blamed in Delhi Games 'scam' being made 'scapegoats': Oz Games chief

Published>Sat, Aug 07 10 12:07 PM

Sydney, Aug 7(ANI): Australia's sporting fraternity is backing two veteran consultants embroiled in allegations of corruption and incompetence relating to the New Delhi Commonwealth Games, saying that they are being scapegoated by panicking organizers.

The consulting firms of Mike Bushell (Sports Marketing and Management) and Craig McLatchey (Event Knowledge Services) have previously worked on the Sydney Olympics and Melbourne Commonwealth Games.

They also have contracts for the 2016 Rio De Janeiro Olympics.

"They are a well known and very respectable Australian company," The Sydney Morning Herald quoted Perry Crosswhite, Australian Commonwealth Games Association chief executive, as saying.

"I know both individuals and both companies, and they have always done a very good job for us. I have full confidence in both of them," he added.

Australian Olympic Committee President John Coates said that New Delhi organizers were seeking to lay blame on outsiders for an event that has been stricken by disasters, cost overruns and poor organization.

"It may well be that this is a way for people to distract and deflect criticism from themselves in terms of the organization of these Games that clearly have some problems," Coates said.

Earlier, Commonwealth Games Organizing Committee terminated Sports Marketing and Management (SMAM)'s contract over alleged non-performance and inability to deliver sponsorship targets.

The Organizing Committee alleged that SMAM had failed to notch up sponsorships worth 122 million dollars by June 30. Out of the 48 sponsorship opportunities identified only about 11 sponsors had come on board.

The Switzerland-based Event Knowledge Services (EKS) has also been accused of financial irregularities.

The two companies are under investigation by the Indian Enforcement Directorate, which is trailing the money paid to them by the organizers of the Commonwealth Games.

According to reports, payments of over Rs. 50crore have been made to these two firms. (ANI)

Source: Web Search

Gay beats Bolt in Stockholm

Published>Sat, Aug 07 10 11:51 AM

Tyson Gay beat Usain Bolt in the 100 meters at the DN Galan meet in 9.84 seconds at the same stadium where Bolt last lost a race two years ago.

The American always looked in complete control against world record-holder Bolt, who was second in 9.97 on Friday.

A sellout crowd in the 1912 Olympic Stadium was silent before the race between the two fastest men of all time. And the tension increased among the 20,000 spectators even further after two false starts.

The pair raced side by side in lanes four and five and Gay looked comfortable throughout, slowly pulling away while the Jamaican was straining to keep up in the highly anticipated race.

"I'm really happy with the win, even though Usain Bolt isn't in the best shape," Gay said. "It was very important to beat someone like that for the fans and the sport.

"My body worked well today, I was excited and motivated."

Bolt has ran faster this year, timing 9.82 a month ago in Lausanne, Switzerland.

"I think (today) showed that I wasn't in the best of shape," Bolt said. "I'm not unbeatable. I can be beaten and it showed today.

"This is my easy season. If you don't beat me this season it's not going to happen next season because next year is a championship year."

The sprinters both looked like they left plenty in reserve when they cruised through the heats, and so it proved for Gay when it came to the final.

Richard Thompson of Trinidad finished third in 10.10.

Asafa Powell defeated Bolt at the same meet two years ago, but pulled out of this year's race on Wednesday with a back injury, denying fans the chance to see the first race between the world's three fastest men since Bolt stormed to a new world record of 9.58 last August at the world championships in Berlin.

In other events, Darya Klishna of Russia beat a top-class field in the women's long jump with 6.78 meters. Brittney Reese of the United States was second with 6.75, and European silver medallist Naide Gomes of Portugal third with 6.72. European champion Ineta Radevica of Latvia was down in fifth, with 6.70.

"I missed Barcelona so this was something special for me," said Klishna. "I always like to jump with the best possible field. It gives me more motivation."

Blanka Vlasic of Croatia won an exciting high jump competition with 2.02. American Chaunte Howard-Lowe was second with 2.00 and home-crowd favorite Emma Green of Sweden was third with 1.94.

American Bershawn Jackson set a new stadium record of 47.65 in the 400 hurdles. Javier Culson of Puerto Rico was a distant second in 48.50 and Angelo Taylor of the U.S. third in 49.57.

A throw of 84.41 meters by Finland's Tero Pitkamaki inflicted a rare javelin defeat on world, Olympic and European champion Andreas Thorkildsen of Norway, who was second with 83.63. Mattias De Zordo of Germany came third with 82.05.

Allyson Felix won the women's 200 in 22.41 in an American sweep of the podium; Shalonda Solomon was second in 22.51, and Bianca Knight third with 22.59.

Australian Sally Pearson won the women's 100 hurdles in 12.57, beating Canada's Priscilla Lopes-Schliep in 12.59 and Lolo Jones of the United States, who was third, clocking 12.70.

Source: Web Search

Merchandise to hit the market from Monday

Sat, Aug 07 10 11:47 AM

New Delhi, Aug. 7 -- The Delhi 2010 Commonwealth Games are in dire need of some good news. If things go according to plan, that will happen through the launch of the Games merchandise at outlets in the Capital on Monday. Unfortunately, like various other aspects of the Games' preparations, this too is a delayed start. The London 2012 Olympics opened their first merchandise outlet two years before the Games, but here, we only have 57 days to go. OC spokesman, Lalit Bhanot, told Hindustan Times, We would have liked to launch earlier, but didn't want it to coincide with the football World Cup. It is unfortunate that we have so little time left, but I am sure the response will be great." The tender process for merchandising began in November 2009 but the first tender had to be scrapped because revenue targets were not being met. What we were getting earlier was just about 2.3 crores. Now we have finalized a deal that guarantees 7.2 crores, and could go up depending on sales. We are pretty sure it will increase." Premier Brands will be responsible for merchandising operations, and will put on sale a number of products in 12 categories, including apparel, toys and souvenirs. Bhanot also said the official letter terminating the services of Sports Marketing and Management (SMAM), tasked with landing sponsorship for the Games, had been sent only on Friday, and until that was done, the merchandising launch was not possible. Merchandising was also under the charge of OC joint director general, M Jayachandran, who has been suspended and is under inquiry for his alleged role in the Queen's Baton Relay financial irregularities.

The OC has been accused of failing to secure adequate revenue to pay back the 1620 crore loan it received from the Centre, but Bhanot said, We have raised 600 crores through sponsorship and broadcast rights. More deals are going to be finalised in a few days, and we will meet the targets."

Source: Published>

IHF is the official body, Govt tells FIH

Sat, Aug 07 10 11:43 AM

Mumbai, Aug. 7 -- A day after it de-recognised Hockey India, the Sports Ministry dealt it another blow by seeking permission from the international hockey federation (FIH) to allow Indian Olympic Association (IOA) or Sports Authority of India (SAI) to select and send teams for international tournaments. The Ministry told the FIH that it has recognised IHF as the sole national federation for India and requested it not to assign any international tournament or have any commercial dealings with HI under the impression that it was the National Sports Federation for hockey in India. In November 2008, the FIH had transferred the membership of Indian Hockey Confederation, a joint body of men's and women's bodies in India, IHF and IWHF, to Hockey India after IOA suspended and disaffiliated IHF in April 2008. Hockey India was eventually set up in May 2009. But IHF was revived in May this year after the Delhi High Court termed its suspension illegal as IOA had not followed its own rules in suspending it. In a letter to the FIH on Friday, the ministry said the IHF president has confirmed that the process of unification of the men and women hockey bodies will be completed soon. "Once this process is completed and IHF becomes fully compliant with the constitution of the FIH, they will approach FIH for recognition /Affiliation / Membership," the Ministry said, clarifying that it would closely monitor the process of merger. "In the meanwhile, it is requested that the IOA or Sports Authority of India (SAI) may be permitted to field the Indian team for various FIH-recognised competition," the letter said. The FIH refused to comment on the letter or de-recognition of HI. "The FIH is not in the position of making any comments at this stage," said FIH communications manager Arjen Meijer. The FIH office in Lausanne said president Leandro Negre was travelling in Germany and was not available for comment while acting director general Roger Webb was in a meeting. The confusion over the national federation for hockey in India will persist for some more days. As per FIH bye-laws, recognition by the National Olympic Committee, the IOA in this case, and not government is necessary for membership.

The Ministry has decided to ensure the players are not victimised in this power struggle till the end of the Games. Without the government support, HI can't even run camps or tournaments or send teams abroad as government funds all these activities.

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'Bad boy' Ryder fined for booze-induced bluster in Christchurch bar

Published>Sat, Aug 07 10 11:27 AM

Auckland, Aug 7(ANI): New Zealand cricketer Jesse Ryder has been fined by New Zealand Cricket after admitting to drunken behavior, the latest disciplinary lapse for the left-handed batsman.

Ryder admitted that his drunk and noisy behaviour drew complaints from guests at a hotel at which he was staying during an indoor cricket tournament in Christchurch in July.

"Jesse, to his credit, brought the incident to the attention of New Zealand Cricket and has admitted his role in it," The New Zealand Press Association quoted Geoff Allott, NZC General Manager, as saying.

"NZC is extremely disappointed in this breach of trust and protocol by Jesse and view the matter very seriously," he added.

Ryder admitted his fault in a statement to NZC, and said that he was committed to making the right changes in his life.

"I accept that being intoxicated and rowdy during the night put me in a position where I put New Zealand Cricket and my own reputation at risk and I accept this is not tolerable. The potential consequences of this event have distressed me over the last few weeks," Ryder said.

"I have apologized to the hotel for my behavior and I have put a lot of time into working out a plan to prevent me being in this position again," he added.

It is the third time NZC has taken action against Ryder for an alcohol-related incident since early 2008.

He was earlier ordered to apologize and pay for the damage he caused while attempting to break into a Christchurch hotel toilet.

In January last year, he was dropped for an ODI against West Indies after indulging in a late night drinking session and missing a team meeting the following morning. (ANI)

Source: Web Search

Medals last thing on their minds

Sat, Aug 07 10 11:17 AM

New Delhi, Aug. 7 -- If the news of top foreign athletes pulling out of the Commonwealth Games was not enough, here is more bad news. Two of India's top sportspersons - rifle shooter Gagan Narang and pistol shooter Samresh Jung - who shared among them nine gold at the quadrennial Games in Melbourne in 2006, are frustrated because of varied reasons. Narang, who returned to the Capital on Friday after shooting down a bronze at the World Championships in Munich, told HT he was taking a "break from shooting", as he had "no motivation left for the Commonwealth Games". The Hyderabad marksman had four gold at the Melbourne CWG and this time he could be gunning for six in individual and pairs events. Narang was ignored for the highest sporting honour, Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna, for the third consecutive year and it's "broken me from inside". "I don't have the motivation to shoot in the Commonwealth Games. I might not shoot. I don't have the motivation to shoot beyond today. Ignoring a world record holder is an insult. The perception of people can be changed with the government's intent and without it there is no reason why one should continue to bring in glory. I feel wrecked," the champion shooter, who sealed the first London Olympic Games quota for the country, said on Friday. "I usually stop checking my e-mails five days before a major competition. But, on the eve of the competition I opened my mailbox only to see that I had been ignored again. I was heartbroken. (Team-mate) Samresh took me out, tried to talk me out of the shock.I wish they (Sports Ministry) had treated me better." "I don't say (shuttler) Saina (Nehwal) shouldn't get the Khel Ratna. But, what about me.my achievements are bigger." Samresh, who earned the sobriquet of 'Goldfinger' after his five-gold haul in Melbourne hasn't had a coach since Czaba Gyorik left two years back following the expiry of his contract after the Beijing Olympics in 2008. "There is no coach for more than a year, the shooting ranges are not ready, so where is the motivation to shoot, although I know Samresh will still give his best in the CWG," said wife, Anuja, who too won a gold in Melbourne.

Half the number of gold India win in the CWG will be shared between them. But no one's talking about medals, at least for now.

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Aussie sports administrators back SMAM

Sat, Aug 07 10 11:07 AM

Melbourne, Aug 7 (PTI) Australian consultancy firm SMAM, whose contract was terminated by the Delhi Commonwealth Games organisers for "non-performance", today got the backing of top sports administrators here who said the company has been made a scapegoat in the corruption scandals that have rocked the event in India. Australian Olympic Committee president John Coates said the Delhi Games OC was trying to divert attention from the allegations of widescale corruption and incompetence by terminating the Melbourne-based Sports Marketing and Management''s (SMAM) contract. "It may well be that this is a way for people to distract and deflect criticism from themselves in terms of the organisation of these Games that clearly have some problems," he said. Australia''s Commonwealth Games Association CEO Perry Crosswhite also backed the firm, which was supposed to rope in sponsorship for the Delhi Games but failed to fulfill expectations of the organisers. "They are a well known and very respectable Australian company," Crosswhite told the ''Sydney Morning Herald''. SMAM is headed by Mike Bushell, who supervised sponsorship deals for the 2000 Sydney Olympics and the 2006 Melbourne Commonwealth Games. "They have always done a very good job for us. I have full confidence in them," said Crosswhite. Another sports administrator, who spoke on condition of anonymity, was scathing in his criticism of the way SMAM''s contract was terminated. "The Indians don''t want to pay up, and so they are attacking and making these claims. This is not an isolated thing, getting money out of them - particularly if you are a foreign contractor - it has been a nightmare. They are trying to push this thing out and out to avoid paying the commissions they owe," he fumed.

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Close-in catch raises big doubts on Day 4

Sat, Aug 07 10 10:47 AM

Colombo, Aug. 7 -- Even before stumps were drawn on Day 4 of India's must-win third Test against Sri Lanka, there was a lot of action in the match referee's cubicle. Soon after Murali Vijay was controversially adjudged out after the on-field umpires consulted the third umpire over a catch taken, India's coach Gary Kirsten barged into the match referee's cubicle. It was learnt that Kirsten sought a clarification about how Vijay was ruled out when replays were inconclusive. While match referee Andy Pycroft offered no explanation, third umpire Kumar Dharmasena, himself a former cricketer, apparently explained that he referred the decision back to the on-field umps since the replays were "inconclusive". Vijay, with three overs remaining in the day's play, clipped Suraj Randiv off his legs. Mahela Jayawardene, standing at backward short-leg, lunged forward to claim a catch and the Lankans started celebrating. But the India opener was not sure if Jayawardene had caught it cleanly, so he waited at the crease. Umpire Simon Taufel then walked to Rod Tucker at square leg and after having a brief discussion consulted Dharmasena on the walkie-talkie. Since none of the camera angles was conclusive for him to make up his mind, the former Sri Lanka off-spinner asked Taufel to make up his mind. And then Taufel raised his finger. It was interesting, especially since Taufel had not given his verdict before consulting the third umpire.

But that wasn't to be.

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'The national team has always been top priority'

Sat, Aug 07 10 10:17 AM

New Delhi, Aug. 6 -- From helping the Indian team qualify for the Asian Cup, to signing with Major League Soccer club Kansas City Wizards, to facing Manchester United in a friendly, Sunil Chhetri's life has been a whirlwind. It could well have been a blur, but the refreshingly mature footballer has made it a point to take it all in, and learn from every experience. In New Delhi on his way to joining the Indian football team's training camp in Portugal, Chhetri was jetlagged, but candidly spoke to Hindustan Times about his journey, and where the road ahead may take him. Excerpts from the conversation: What everyone wants to know, what was it like getting onto the pitch to face Manchester United? It was incredible. When I found out the game was on, and that legends like Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes would be playing, I couldn't believe it. That we won, despite being down to 10 men, made the dream complete. How many clubs can say that? Any particular incidents you remember? So many. One was when I was playing up front as lone striker, and our keeper sent a long ball up the field, I chested it down, turned and shot on the volley with my left foot. It wasn't the best of shots, but to be able to do that against a world-class defence gave me a lot of confidence. Prior to the United game, you had said you were a little bit frustrated at not getting more minutes on the field. I have grown up not being used to sitting on the bench. In the early days I would get angry. Then I realized it's not always that easy. I started being more positive, working harder in training, and automatically things started looking up. Your coach has said there are some aspects of the game you need to work on. I have but a great rapport with Wizards boss Peter Vermes. In India I play out and out striker, but here Kei Kamara has that role, so I have to sit back a little. I need to work on my defence, and whenever you learn new things you become a better player. This will show when I play with the national team as well. How is the playing in the US different from India? For one the technical proficiency of the players is much higher. The game is also faster and more physical. And then there are the training facilities and the venues. In Kansas, we have four training pitches, plus a stadium that is one of the best in America. Typically we come in around 9 am, have breakfast at the club kitchen, get treated by the masseurs, and then go to training. It's phenomenal. What has it been like for you personally to make the switch to the USA? Initially it was difficult, lonely. Indians there used to complain about India, and I would get angry, but I realized that life is just a lot easier there. Here by the time you get to office from home, you are already angry, hassled, stressed. People have a lot more respect for each other there. But there were difficult times as well, when you have no one to talk to. My family has been a huge support. Without them I would never have been able to survive. What do you do in your free time? A lot of us foreign players stay in the same building. I was sharing an apartment with Chance Myles and Diop, in the centre of the city. We play a lot of Playstation, go out for meals, hang out. The usual stuff boys do. For your female fans, are you single? Let's say I'm not married, and leave it at that. I am a pretty good catch though. I cook, I'm neat, and I'm fit, so it's a good package (laughs). You are going to join the national team. How did it feel to leave the Wizards and what thoughts do you have on preparations for the Asian Cup? There was a twinge of disappointment when I left Kansas, because things were really looking up, and I was confident of being in the playing XI soon. But they have been great, and so has the AIFF. My manager told me they wanted to support me and give me the freedom to do what I want. And I have a long term contract there, so I have nothing to lose. As far as the camp is concerned, the national team has always been my number one priority. I have massive respect for Bob Houghton. He is the best thing to have happened to Indian football, and when I think about joining the team in a couple of days, I get really pumped. India's chances at the Asian Cup? Playing higher ranked teams is the way forward for us. Even in the US, my goal has been to show people Indians can play football. And it is the same for the national team. We are ranked low only because we don't play enough international matches. That will change. In Doha next year, we will play all the big names, and that is not a surprise. Getting six months with Bob will make us a much better team. We have already shown that we can beat higher ranked teams at home, now we have to go out and do the same. We are focused and positive. And who will be the next Indian to play abroad? There are lots of guys, Steven Dias, Subrata Pal, Pradeep; I hope they get a chance and prove to the world that we are better than 130th in the world. Lastly, your thoughts on the AIFF development team playing in the next edition of the I-League.

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12 sports stadiums to be flood-lit in Punjab

Published>Sat, Aug 07 10 09:27 AM

Chandigarh, Aug 7 (IANS) The Punjab government has given the go ahead to the state's sports department to provide flood-lighting for 12 sports stadiums across the state.

Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal, who also handles the sports ministry here, has approved the Rs.645 million proposal for flood-lighting of the stadiums, a sports department official said here Saturday.

Badal approved the construction of a hockey stadium at Faridkot, about 280 km from here, and upgradation of hockey stadiums in Ludhiana, Jalandhar and Amritsar. He also approved the upgradation of multipurpose stadiums in Jalandhar, Bathinda, Sangrur, Hoshiarpur, Amritsar, Mansa, Gurdaspur, Jalandhar and Ludhiana.

The deputy chief minister said it was his commitment during the World Cup Kabaddi-2010, held across Punjab this year, that next event would be held in upgraded flood-lit stadiums so that more people could enjoy the traditional game of Punjab.

He said Punjab finance department had already sanctioned Rs.200 million for the upgradation of the stadiums and remaining funds would be arranged through state government agencies.

Source: Web Search

Lahiri drops to 12th, Bhullar moves up to 24th

Published>Fri, Aug 06 10 09:17 PM

Petaling Jaya (Malaysia), Aug 6 (IANS) Anirban Lahiri was done in by a sluggish finish with a double bogey on the 18th as he dropped from overnight seventh to tied 12th at the end of the third round of the Worldwide Holdings Selangor Masters golf here Friday.

Lahiri two-under for the day after 13 holes, dropped a shot on 15th and then had a double bogey on the 18th and finished at one-over 72 to be five-under for 54 holes. He was five behind the leader Angelo Que of the Philippines.

Of the other Indians who made the cut, Gaganjeet Bhullar made a good upward move with a four-under 67 that saw him leap from 58th to 24th at one-over for the tournament. Rahil Gangjee (73) was tied 50th at six-over 219 and Gaurav Pratap Singh (79) was tied 64th.

A limping Que charged into a one-shot lead after the third round as no fewer than 10 players have a realistic shot at the title.

Que, chasing a third Asian Tour victory, overcame a sluggish start before storming home with a three-under-par 68 and a five-under-par 208 total in the $300,000 event.

Playing partners Chris Rodgers of England and countryman Juvic Pagunsan led the chasing pack with matching 69s at the tricky Seri Selangor Golf Club.

Malaysia's Airil Rizman (72), Filipino Jay Bayron (70), Thai duo Chawalit Plaphol (69) and Namchoak Tantipokakul (71) and Australians Scott Barr (72) and Brad Smith (72) were a further shot back on 210.

The 31-year-old Que has been struggling with blisters on both feet all week but sprung to life on his inward nine with four birdies over a five-hole stretch to pull clear of the field.

Source: Web Search

India not prepared to hold CWG: Ashok Kumar

Fri, Aug 06 10 09:07 PM

Kolkata, Aug 6 (PTI) With a series of scam allegations rocking the build-up to Commonwealth Games, former India hockey captain Ashok Kumar today said the country was not prepared to host such a big event. "I feel sad to see so much of public money going waste. I think there has been lack of preparation from India''s point of view. It''s really sad to see so many scams coming out everyday. It''s our money, the public money, which is used. We must ensure that it''s utilised in a proper way," Ashok, son of legendary player Dhyanchand, said. He though hoped India would overcome the hurdles and stage the Games brilliantly. "Commonwealth Games is India''s pride. It''s such a prestigious meet. We must ensure that it is conducted smoothly. After all our nation has conducted so many prestigious meets like Asiad in 1982. So I think we will overcome the hurdles," he said. Former coach V Bhaskaran said Indian Olympic Association president Suresh Kalmadi, who is in the midst of the controversy, should have stepped down from his post earlier. "Kalmadi should have stepped down from the Indian Olympic Association''s post and devoted his time for the Commonwealth Games Organising Committee," he said. The two former hockey greats were today felicitated by the Hockey Lovers'' Association here. Hockey Lovers Association also felicitated a host of umpires coaches and former greats at the function.

Source: Published>

Early exit for Indian archers in World Cup

Fri, Aug 06 10 09:01 PM

Kolkata, Aug 6 (PTI) Olympian Dola Banerjee and Deepika Kumari bowed out at the pre-quarterfinals, while the Indian archers faced an early elimination in the individual round of the Archery World Cup Stage III at Ogden in the USA. According to information received, only Dola and Deepika could manage to reach the pre-quarterfinal round before bowing out yesterday. Dola fell to Shanshan Zhu of China while Deepika lost to Joo Hyun-Jung of Korea. L Bombayla Devi was defeated by Dola in the second round while Punya Prabha was defeated by Justyna Mospinek of Poland in the first round. Tarundeep Rai fell to to Sebastian Rohrberg of Germany in the second round as veteran Mangal Singh Champia was no match to Elian Cuesta of Spain in the opening stage. Kapil lost to Fujun Yong of China in the first round and debutant K Shiva Shankar bowed to higher-ranked Oh Jin Hyek of Korea. Earlier, on Wednesday, the men''s team stood third overall with a total points of 1982. The women''s team ended sixth overall with 1915 points. PTI TAP AMD DB

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Amitabh Bachchan pleased over association with Champions league

Published>Fri, Aug 06 10 08:41 PM

Mumbai, Aug 6 (ANI): Bollywood actor Amitabh Bachchan on Friday expressed happiness on being associated with the forthcoming Champions League Twenty20 tournament to be held in South Africa.

"It is very exciting, just the time, the constraint of number of overs that you have to face, the fact that each player has to perform his very best from first ball, that's what builds the excitement," said Bachchan.

"I think that all of us agree that it has been very revolutionary, this change and I am so happy that I am associated with the game now. I wish all the three teams from India to perform and win," he added.

Former Indian skipper Saurav Ganguly, who was also present on the occasion, said it is a good opportunity for the upcoming players to be face to face with the best players in the world.

Ten cricket teams from across the world will be facing each other in the tournament.

The championship will start from September 10. By Raziq Khan (ANI)

Source: Web Search

Medals for 2010 Commonwealth Games unveiled

Published>Fri, Aug 06 10 08:37 PM

New Delhi, Aug 6 (ANI): The Organising Committee of the 2010 Commonwealth Games today unveiled the victory medals for XIX Commonwealth Games 2010 Delhi.

Organising Committee Chairman Suresh Kalmadi unveiled the victory medals here at the OC headquarters.

The medals for Delhi 2010 are a product of excellence and reflect the spirit of the Commonwealth Games 2010 Delhi, a testament to brilliance and success of the athletes.

"Indian athletes won 50 medals in the 2006 Games. We hope 70 of these wonderful medals will be won by Indian athletes. India finished fourth in the medal tally at Melbourne. We're hopeful of moving to the third place this time," said Kalmadi.

"The Prime Minister has given us Rs 700 crore for training of athletes, I am confident that will reflect in India's medal tally," added Kalmadi.

The medal design is clean and simple and the dominant form that gives it dynamism is a rising upward spiral that starts taking shape from the plain textured base, gradually becoming the highlight of the medal.

The front of the medal has the Commonwealth Games 2010 Delhi logo and dates. The back has the emblem of the Commonwealth Games Federation.

The medal is 6 mm thick with a diameter of 63.5 mm. The signature element's starting fin is raised by 1 mm and it rises up to 3 mm on the last fin. The embossed logo and date is raised by 1mm.

OC CWG Delhi 2010 has ordered a total of 1,408 medals, which includes multiple medals for team events. The cost of producing each gold medal is Rs 5,539, while every silver medal costs Rs 4,818 and a bronze medal Rs 4,529. The total cost of producing these medals is Rs 81, 08,566 including the price of the boxes and lanyards. (ANI)

Source: Web Search

Govt restores recognition to IHF

Fri, Aug 06 10 08:21 PM

New Delhi, Aug 6 (PTI) Two years after it was de-rocognised under controversial circumstances, Indian Hockey Federation today got the government''s recognition as the sole National Sports Federation to run the game in the country. The Sports Ministry informed this in a letter to the International Hockey Federation (FIH) while also intimating its decision to derecognise Hockey India which completed its controversial elections yesterday. "Government has derecognised Hockey India by a speaking order on August 5, 2010, a copy of which has been endorsed to you. As such, HI is no more the recognised NSF for management, control and promotion of hockey in the country, and is also not authorised to select and field national team in international competitions," a letter from the Sports Ministry addressed to FIH chief Lendro Negre said. "In view of this development, the IHF stands recognised by the government as the sole NSF in India in the light of the judgement dated 21.05.2010 of the Hon''ble High Court of Delhi in a Writ Petition, which has also been accepted by Indian Olympic Association (IOA) as well as the HI before the Hon''ble High Court of Delhi..." the ministry letter said. "You are requested not to assign any international tournament or have any commercial dealings with HI under the impression that they are the NSF for hockey in India because they no longer enjoy government recognition and have assumed the character of a private body," it added. The Ministry informed FIH that IHF was in the process of unification with Indian Women''s Hockey Federation and post-merger it would apply for affiliation to the international body. "The president IHF has confirmed to government that the process of unification of men and women hockey bodies at the national level is underway and is expected to be completed soon. "Once this process is completed and IHF becomes fully compliant of with the constitution of the FIH, they will approach FIH for recognition/affiliation/membership. This process is expected to be completed very soon and the government will closely monitor it," it said. More PTI PDS MRM

Source: Published>

Commonwealth Games medals unveiled

Published>Fri, Aug 06 10 08:07 PM

New Delhi, Aug 6 (IANS) The medals for the Commonwealth Games were unveiled here Friday by Organising Committee chairman Suresh Kalmadi.

Kalmadi hoped that India will win more medals at home and will improve on their fourth place finish in Melbourne.

'Last time around the Indian team got 50 medals and came fourth in the games. This time we expect to come third. We can come second as well. We hope 70 of these wonderful medals will be won by Indian athletes. India finished fourth in the medal tally at Melbourne. We are hopeful of moving to the third place this time.

'There will be 271 gold medals, 271 silver medals and 282 bronze medals. The front of the medal has the Delhi logo. The back of the medal has the emblem of Commonwealth Games. The manufacturing of the medals is in full swing. There will 1,408 medals awarded in the CWG, including the multiple medals in the team events. The cost of each gold medal is Rs.5,539, silver is Rs.4,818 and the bronze cost Rs.4,529 each. The total cost of the medals is Rs.81.08 lakh,' Kalmadi said after unveiling the medals.

'The Prime Minister has given us Rs.700 crore ($7 billion) for training of athletes. I am confident that will reflect in India's medal tally,' Kalmadi said at the OC headquarters

Lalit Bhanot, secretary general, Commonwealth Games Organising Committee was also present on the occasion.

The medal design is clean and simple and the dominant form that gives it dynamism is a rising upward spiral that starts taking shape from the plain textured base, gradually becoming the highlight of the medal. It represents the rise to glory for each athlete from struggle to their moment of glory.

The front of the medal has the Commonwealth Games 2010 Delhi logo and dates. The back has the emblem of the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF).

The medal is 6 mm thick with a diameter of 63.5 mm.

The lanyard of the medal carries all six Games colours (pink, purple, green, red, yellow and blue) blending into each other. It is created with Delhi 2010 brand and design elements.

The medal case is clean and simple with black background enhancing the logo embossed on top in Gold, Silver or Bronze - matching the medal inside. The color and simplicity of the box is keeping with the significance of the product it carries. The black base provides an appropriate background to the multi-hued lanyard and the medal itself.

The India Government Mint, Kolkata, was entrusted with the design, development and manufacture of the medals. The image and look department of the CWG Delhi 2010 created four design options for victory medals. After sampling, the existing design was selected for final prototype.

Source: Web Search

1st day, 2nd day races postponed

Fri, Aug 06 10 07:51 PM

Chennai, Aug 6 (PTI): The stewards of Madras Race Club have postponed the first day and second day''s races, scheduled to be held here today and tomorrow due to ''administrative reasons''. Accordingly, the first day''s races, scheduled for August 6 would be held on August 7. The second day''s races, to be held on August, would now be held on August 9, a press release from the club said.

Source: Published>

Sharmila Nicollet grabs season's first title

Published>Fri, Aug 06 10 07:47 PM

Bangalore, Aug 6 (IANS) A birdie each at the start and the finish and two in between saw 19-year-old local talent, Sharmila Nicollet finish a whopping 14-shots in front of the field at the end of the first event of the 2010-11 Hero Honda Women's Professional Golf Tour of India.

Sharmila, two-time winner last season, thus won the first event of the season and set herself up to retain the Order of Merit she won in the previous season. She opened with a birdie and then added one more on the front nine on the fourth and a third one on the 16th and closed with a fourth birdie on 18th. In between, she dropped bogeys on eighth and 13th and a double on 10th.

Nalini Singh Siwach, who had an eagle on second hole pipped Pallavi Jain by one shot to take the second place. Nalini despite a disappointing 77 managed to stay ahead by one of Pallavi (77).

A confident Sharmila said: 'My objective was to play two-under for the day and I achieved that. But I was not really satisfied. I shall do better in the next one.'

Both Nalini and Pallavi, second and third, also felt they could have done better. 'I was hitting the greens in regulation, but my putting let me down,' said second placed Nalini Siwach.

'I could have done better but for some up and down shots in crucial holes. I will try harder next time,' said Pallavi.

Nikita Arjun with the day's second best round after Sharmila's 72, was the top amateur at 19-over 235. Anisha Padukone was second and Kasvi Malik third.

This was the first leg of the 10-leg Tour that entered its fifth year.

Source: Web Search

India can pull off win in 3rd Test: Misra

Fri, Aug 06 10 07:21 PM

T V Sriram Colombo, Aug 6 (PTI) The third Test is tantalisingly poised after three Indian wickets fell in a chase of 257 but spinner Amit Mishra says India can rely on its batting line up to pull off a series-levelling win against Sri Lanka. Its top order demolished, India need another 204 runs on a wearing track on the final day of the match. "I feel we still have a lot of batting to come. The experienced players in our side are performing. We have confidence that we will win the match," Mishra, who took three wickets today, said after day''s play. "Early on it is difficult to play. But once a batsman is set it is easy to play. Since it is a new ball there is some pressure on us. But once the ball gets older then it becomes good for batting," he said. Sachin Tendulkar will resume the Indian chase tomorrow and players of high calibre such as VVS Laxman, Suresh Raina and skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni are next in the line up. India had Sri Lanka on mat after reducing them to 125 for eight but Thilan Samaraweera (83) and Ajantha Mendis (78) raised a defiant 118-run stand for the ninth wicket to help their side set a decent target. Asked why India took so long to finish the Lankan innings despite having the hosts under tremendous pressure, Misra said, "These things keep happening in cricket. Earlier we got seven wickets for 80 run. This is cricket and these things keep happening." "Everybody knows that when the new ball loses its shine and the wicket is slow, it''s good for batting." The leg-spinner said the wicket is such that after spending soome time at the crease, even tail-enders can get runs. He said the lower-order batsmen were not uncomfortable while batting with a senior on the other end. "It is not like that we are only taking singles. The wicket was so easy that single comes easy. The wicket was slow and once the batsman is set it is easy for him to bat." Misra also said that he was not nervous when he was on the verge of getting a hat-trick in the morning session. "I just wanted to bowl in good areas. That is it. Nothing else," he said.

Source: Published>

India facing possible defeat in Colombo Test

Published>Fri, Aug 06 10 07:07 PM

Colombo, Aug.6 (ANI): Sri Lankan off-spinner Suraj Randiv struck thrice during the closing stages of the fourth day's play of the third and final Test to peg India back, and leaving it facing possible defeat on the fifth and final day at the P. Sarvanamuttu stadium here.

Chasing Sri Lanka's 257, India were precariously placed at 53 for 3, with Sachin Tendulkar and Ishant Sharma at the crease on scores of 11 and 2 respectively. They need a further 204 to achieve victory on a difficult track that is taking both turn and uneven bounce.

India has lost the wickets of Virender Sehwag (0), Murali Vijay (27) and Rahul Dravid (7). Sehwag was caught at first slip, Vijay at backward short leg and while Dravid was bowled.

Earlier, Sri Lankan middle-order batsman Thilan Samaraweera followed up his unbeaten century in the first innings with a resolute 83 in the second to keep India's bowlers at bay for much of the day. Spinner Ajantha Mendis, who scored a telling 78, and added 118 runs for the ninth wicket, thus taking the game away from India, helped him.

At one stage, Sri Lanka had lost seven wickets for 87 runs, giving the Indians hope of victory.

However, Samaraweera altered the script and played the ball late and with skillful use of the wrists. There were timely improvisations, as he swept, slog-swept, charged out of the crease to find the boundary, forcing the Indian fielders to spread out.

Samaraweera built the Sri Lankan total with the help of first Lasith Malinga and then Mendis.

Friday's knock must rank as one of his finest, far tougher than he faced in several of his 12 grinding centuries.

His vigil ended when he was caught behind of Karnataka fast bowler A. Mithun.

For the Indians, spinners Pragyan Ojha, Amit Mishra and Virender Sehwag took three wickets each, while Mithu took one. Ishant Sharma went wicketless. (ANI)

India's hopes now rest with Tendulkar and the middle-order comprising V.V.S.Laxman and Mahendra Singh Dhoni. (ANI)

Source: Web Search

Government grapples with Commonwealth Games rows

Published>Fri, Aug 06 10 06:57 PM

From leaking venue roofs to inflated orders of taxis and mobile toilets, rows over New Delhi's Commonwealth Games have prompted Indian soul-searching and piled pressure on the embattled ruling Congress party.

Less than two months away, the event intended to showcase India's rising global clout in the footsteps of the Beijing Olympics has jumped more than 17.5 times over its first budget estimate and raised concerns some venues will not be ready.

Source: Web Search

Sri Lanka dismissed for 267, India need 257 to win third Test

Published>Fri, Aug 06 10 06:37 PM

Colombo, Aug. 6 -- After frustrating the Indian bowlers for a long time, Sri Lanka were finally dismissed for 267 runs in their second innings, in post tea session on the fourth day of the third and final cricket Test against India in Colombo. India now now needs 257 runs to win the third Test. Ajantha Mendis was the last man to be bowled on the individual score of 78. Thilan Samaraweera was dismissed for 83, caught by MS Dhoni on the bowling of Abhimanyu Mithun, in post tea session on the fourth day of the third and final cricket Test against India in Colombo. Sri Lanka were 266 for nine in their second innings at tea on the fourth day of the third and final cricket Test against India in Colombo. Though Sri Lanka lost six wickets in the pre-lunch session Ajantha Mendis (45) and Thilan Samaraweera (78) played with patience to frustrate Indian hope of winning the match and levelling the series 1-1. India are one down in the series due to defeat in the first match of the series. Earlier in the day, Pragyan Ojha and Amit Mishra shared five wickets between them as India reduced Sri Lanka to 143 for eight in the pre-lunch session. Brief Score: Sri lanka first innings: 425

Sri Lanka second innings: 266 for 9 in 74 overs ( Ajanta Mendis 77 batting, Chanaka Welegedara 4 batting; Thilan Samaraweera 83 Pragyan Ojha 3/80, Virender Sehwag 3/50, Amit Mishra 2/41).

Source: Web Search

Mendis, Samaraweera frustrate India's hope of levelling series

Fri, Aug 06 10 06:21 PM

Colombo, Aug. 6 -- Sri Lanka were 225 for eight in their second innings at tea on the fourth day of the third and final cricket Test against India in Colombo. Though Sri Lanka lost six wickets in the pre-lunch session Ajantha Mendis (45) and Thilan Samaraweera (78)playes with patience to frustrate Indian hope of winning the match and levelling the series 1-1. India are one down in the series due to defeat in the first match of the series. Earlier in the day, Pragyan Ojha and Amit Mishra shared five wickets between them as India reduced Sri Lanka to 143 for eight in the pre-lunch session. Brief Score: Sri lanka first innings: 425

Sri Lanka second innings: 225 for 8 in 74 overs (Thilan Samaraweera 78 batting, Ajanta Mendis 45 batting; Pragyan Ojha 3/80, Virender Sehwag 3/50, Amit Mishra 2/41).

Source: Published>

Ace rifle shooter Gagan Narang may not participate in CWG

Published>Fri, Aug 06 10 06:07 PM

New Delhi, Aug 6 (ANI): India's ace rifle shooter, Gagan Narang, may not participate in Commonwealth Games as he feels demotivated due to denial of Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award.

Narang, who is ranked world number two, became the first Indian to qualify for the Olympics after shooting a bronze in the 10-metre air rifle event in the 50th World Championship in Munich.

Speaking to media persons after arriving Delhi on Friday morning, he said:"At the moment, I am not really very sure of participation in the Commonwealth Games because I am really de-motivated," said Narang.

Narang also said that he was a strong contender since the past few years for the award.

"If I was ignored last year, that doesn't mean last year or 2008 year's achievements are zero. I think those achievements also should be considered for next time that you apply. Your contention in the award means that you have been performing well over the past three years and being consistent. So I hope something happens about this," said Narang.

At the 2006 Melbourne Commonwealth Games, rifle shooter Gagan Narang had won four gold medals. (ANI)

Source: Web Search

India 53/3 in 2nd innigs at close on day 4

Fri, Aug 06 10 05:53 PM

Colombo, Aug 6 (PTI) Chasing 257 to win, India were 53 for three in their second innings at close on the fourth day of the third and final cricket Test against Sri Lanka at P Sara Oval here today. Sachin Tendulkar (11) and Ishant Sharma (2) were at the crease when stumps were drawn for the day. Brief Scores: Sri Lanka: 425 and 267 India : 436 and 53 for three in 18 overs. (M Vijay 27; S Randiv 3/20).

Source: Published>

Queen''s Baton relay to enter Haryana on Sept 26

Fri, Aug 06 10 05:21 PM

Chandigarh, Aug 6 (PTI) The Queen''s Baton relay of the Commonwealth Games will enter Haryana from Rajasthan at Dabwali in Sirsa district on September 26. A spokesman of the Sports and Youth Affairs department said that the QBR would pass through several places in the state including Kaithal, Kurukshetra, Karnal, Panipat, Bhiwani, Rohtak and Gurgaon before entering Delhi on September 30.

Source: Published>

Fabregas not leaving Arsenal this season: Wilson

Published>Fri, Aug 06 10 05:07 PM

London, Aug 6(ANI): Former Arsenal manager Bob Wilson believes that skipper Cesc Fabregas will remain a Gunner.

"There will be an announcement soon that tells everyone Cesc is staying this season and for maybe longer," The Sun quoted Wilson, as saying.

"If you look at the team photo for the 2010-11 season, he is at the front of the picture. That's the clearest indication you can get that Cesc will stay," he added.

Arsenal's chances of keeping hold of their captain received a boost on Thursday when he returned to training and took his place alongside his teammates for the club's official team photo.

Barcelona is determined to sign Fabregas and had earlier made a 30 million pound bid.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger however rejected the offer, and insisted that his talismanic midfielder was not for sale at any price. (ANI)

Source: Web Search

SAI hands over five stadia to CWGOC

Fri, Aug 06 10 04:51 PM

New Delhi, Aug 6 (PTI) The Sports Authority of India handed over five of the nine stadia which it was preparing for the October 3-14 Commonwealth Games to the Organising Committee here today. "SAI has today handed over its five stadia namely Karni Singh Shooting Range, Dhayan Chand Hockey Stadium, Gymnastics stadium, the cycling Velodrome and the Wrestling stadium to venue administrators appointed by OC," a source said. The stadia for the Delhi Games, which missed several construction deadlines, were supposed to be handed over to the OC on August 1. Four more stadia namely SP Mukherjee Swimming complex, Jawahar Lal Nehru stadium, Yamuna sports complex and the Siri Fort complex will be handed over on Monday, the source said. "Rest of stadias of SAI will be handed over on 9th August," he said.

Source: Published>

Wayne Rooney won't be charged for relieving himself on the streets

Published>Fri, Aug 06 10 04:37 PM

London, Aug 06 (ANI): Manchester United footballer Wayne Rooney will not face charges after he urinated on the street.

No prosecution will be brought against party animal Rooney because no one made a formal complaint about his antics outside a Manchester bar. ooney was photographed peeing next to bottle bank outside the fashionable Panacea nightspot.

The 24-year-old footballer was out with wife Coleen and he could only have been prosecuted if caught in the act by officers or following complaints.

Furious boss Sir Alex Ferguson berated the star during training, but refused to criticise him publicly.

"There is currently no bylaw in place to prevent urinating in public, however, if witnessed, the matter can be dealt with under the Public Order Act," The Sun quoted Chief Inspector Chris Hill, of Greater Manchester Police, as saying.

"At this stage no witnesses to the incident have complained to the police so the individual is not facing prosecution," he added. (ANI)

Source: Web Search

Sri Lanka bowled out for 267 in second innings

Published>Fri, Aug 06 10 04:27 PM

Colombo, Aug 6 (IANS) Sri Lanka were bowled out for 267 in their second innings against India shortly after tea on the fourth day of the third and final cricket Test here Friday.

Thilan Samaraweera was the top scorer with 83 while Ajantha Mendis made 77. Sri Lanka made 425 in the first innings and then bowled out India for 436.

Source: Web Search

Sri Lanka all out for 267 on day 4 of 3rd Test

Fri, Aug 06 10 04:21 PM

Colombo, Aug 6 (PTI) Sri Lanka were dismissed for 267 in their second innings on the fourth day of the third and final cricket Test against India here today. Brief Score: Sri lanka first innings: 425 India first innings: 436 Sri Lanka second innings: 267 all out in 85.1 overs (Thilan Samaraweera 83, Ajantha Mendis 78; Pragyan Ojha 3/89, Virender Sehwag 3/51, Amit Mishra 3/47).

Source: Published>

Samaraweera and Mendis lead rearguard action

Fri, Aug 06 10 04:17 PM

Thilan Samaraweera and Ajantha Mendis staged a great rearguard action with an unbroken ninth-wicket stand of 100 to keep Sri Lanka's second innings afloat on the fourth day of the third test against India on Friday.

Sri Lanka went to tea at 225-8 and enjoyed an overall lead of 214 runs with four sessions of play left in the test.

Source: Published>

Hilditch hands another life to Australia's 'weak link' Marcus North

Published>Fri, Aug 06 10 04:07 PM

Sydney, Aug 6(ANI): Australian batsman Marcus North is poised to retain his Test spot for the tour of India and the Ashes after receiving strong backing from chief selector Andrew Hilditch, who believes that the left-hander can play a crucial part in the team of the future.

Despite struggling for form, and coming off a disastrous two-Test tour against Pakistan in which he averaged nine, Hilditch said that North is viewed as a 'long-term' player in the side.

"All players are under pressure in international cricket to perform at all times. From our perspective, with respect to Marcus, we would really be hoping that he is a long-term player for Australia," The Sydney Morning Herald quoted Hilditch, as saying.

"He is a very experienced cricketer, we're going to lose some experience in the next six months to two years, so if he was playing really well and gave us some experience moving forward, that would be an ideal outcome," he added.

He further admitted that North does need to be consistent with his performance, as it is something that the selectors want from him at the moment.

"The main thing with Marcus seems to be his consistency. In straight numbers he is averaging just under 40 in Test cricket [37.73], and doing a pretty good role for us," he added.

"The other thing that has got him a role in the side to a certain extent was obviously his bowling option with some off-spin as well. He needs to achieve consistency moving forward, but he's proved he can play international cricket."

"We've been preparing for this Ashes since we lost them last time, that's why Marcus has been in the side, he has been part of our longer term planning for this Ashes series coming up," he added.

North, batting at number six, has been dismissed 12 times in single figures in his last 28 Test innings. (ANI)

Source: Web Search

Samaraweera and Mendis revive Lanka hopes

Fri, Aug 06 10 03:57 PM

Colombo, Aug 6 (PTI) Thilan Samaraweera (78) and Ajantha Mendis (45) shared an unbeaten 100-run partnership as Sri Lanka continued to frustrate Indian bowlers reaching 223 for eight at tea in their second innings on the fourth day of the third and final Test here today. Resuming at 143 for eight, Sri Lanka rode on the gritty batting performance of tailenders Samaraweera and Mendis to revive their second innings after being strangled by some quality spin bowling in the pre-lunch session. Samaraweera stitched his ninth wicket partnership with Mendis by taking singles and twos, before exploding in the 55th over when he hit a superb sweep shot of Sehwag to bring up his fifty off 79 balls studded with six boundaries. Samaraweera also picked up Amit Mishra for some special treatment when he reached down the track to a flighted delivery and hammered it past the bowler for a boundary. Mendis, on his part, arched a Ishant Sharma bouncer over the slip cordon for a boundary. The carrom bowler got the first six of Sri Lankan innings when he blasted Ojha with the ball getting stuck in the roof with a televison cameraman having to retrieve it. Earlier in the day, Pragyan Ojha and Amit Mishra shared five wickets between them and unleashed some quality spin bowling to strangle the Sri Lankan middle order. Resuming at overnight score of 45 for two, the hosts lost their first wicket when Suraj Randiv, who was lucky to be dropped by wicket keeper Mahendra Singh Dhoni, was finally dismissed the next ball being trapped lbw by Ojha. Skipper Kumar Sangakkara began by hitting Ojha''s outside-the-off-stump delivery for a boundary at the slip region and tried to keep the scoreboard ticking. New batsmen Mahela Jayawardene who took 11 balls to open his account was off the mark with a boundary of Ojha. However, the former captain perished soon as he nicked an Ojha delivery to Dravid at slips. The Lankans suffered the third jolt of the day when Sangakkara trying to break the spin web ended by driving a Ojha delivery straight into the hands of Suresh Raina, who grabbed the catch in his second attempt. 15 balls later, a low full toss by Amit Mishra caught Angelo Mathews (5) unaware as he ended up giving a catch to Sachin Tendulkar at mid-wicket. Mishra was on a hat-trick chance when in the next ball wicket-keeper Prasanna Jayawardene was trapped leg before. Samaraweera and Malinga then gave some respectability to the Sri Lankan total as both opened up and scored mainly in boundaries. After hitting Ojha to the long off boundary, Samaraweera creamed Mishra through the covers, before cutting a Sehwag delivery through the same area. Malinga also got into the act and cut Ojha through the cover point boundary after edging the same bowler for a four. He finally fell to a quickish delivery from Sehwag as it hit him right in the front of the middle stump.

Source: Published>

Pak's domestic level batting basket "totally empty" : Ex-coach

Published>Fri, Aug 06 10 03:37 PM

Karachi, Aug.6 (ANI): Pointing fingers towards defective domestic system, a former Pakistan cricket coach has said that there aren't enough talented batsmen in the country who could shine at the Test level.

The coach, while requesting anonymity, described Pakistan's domestic level basket as "totally empty".

"You can't do anything about it. Your basket is totally empty. There aren't any young batsmen on our domestic circuit, who can be trusted at the Test level especially against top teams like Australia, South Africa or England," The News quoted the coach, as saying.

Pakistan's middle order has weakened considerably over the past few years especially after the retirement of Inzamam-ul-Haq and veterans like Mohammed Yousuf and Younis Khan being sidelined on one pretext or other.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has tried several youngsters in the recent past, but apart from Umar Akmal none of them have clicked, and the former coach blamed the country's first-class system for their failure.

"It's the fault of our system that is not good enough to produce batsmen with the right technique and temperament," he said.

He pointed out that the there is no quick solution for Pakistan's 'perennial' batting problem, and that the country would have to wait for some time before it is addressed.

"I think it's like a ten-year cycle. West Indies went through it. The Aussies came out of it stronger. The English have survived it. Now we are going through a lean phase but should learn from other teams," the former coach said. (ANI)

Source: Web Search

'All rounder' Watson creates flexibility at Australian selection table: Hilditch

Published>Fri, Aug 06 10 03:23 PM

Sydney, Aug 6(ANI): Australian chief selector Andrew Hilditch insists that the team can afford to play spinners Nathan Hauritz and Steven Smith together in Test matches, due to the flexibility that all-rounder Shane Watson creates at the selection table.

Smith is being seen as the future of Australian cricket in the wake of his performance in the Test series against Pakistan, where he was selected due to Hauritz's absence because of an injury.

Hilditch believes that Watson's emergence as an opening batsman last year and a pace bowler of impact in the Pakistan series, with 11 wickets at 10.63, provides the option to selectors and captain Ricky Ponting to have the 21-year-old Smith for the no. six spot.

"We've certainly always been moving to a model where we could, if we wanted to, which is why we've always been very keen to get a medium pace bowler such as Watson in our top six," The Sydney Morning Herald quoted Hilditch, as saying.

"That's been something we've always wanted to achieve. At the moment we're traditionally using that as a quick option with one spinner and some spin from Marcus North."

"The advantage of Watson is, as he showed in England, he's certainly good enough to be a third quick if we wanted to play two spinners," he added.

Hilditch however believes that there is scope for improvement before Smith plays as a specialist batsman and front-line spinner.

"I think he can play in the top six, but I think he's also learning his cricket and he's got a long way (to go), he's got to improve a lot in batting and bowling," Hilditch said.

"The exciting thing is he has proved he can be a really dynamic player for Australia ... and we're certainly going to try to invest as much time in him to make sure he fulfils that potential," he added.

Earlier, Former Australian skipper Greg Chappell had said that Smith has the talent needed to help Australia regain the Ashes.

"He is part of the Ashes plans in my view. In Australia, through the history of cricket, good wrist-spin bowling has been very successful and I think he has the capabilities to do that, and it gives you the opportunity to play two spinners," Chappell had said.

"Remember that Richie Benaud played for three or four years as a batsman predominantly, and bowled the odd over here or there. I can see Steve Smith doing that in the early days of his career," Chappell added.

Chappell had worked with Smith at Cricket Australia's Centre of Excellence last winter, and he has encouraged the all-rounder to develop all facets of his game rather than concentrate on one or the other. (ANI)

Source: Web Search

Liu's free pass to Asian Games comes under fire

Fri, Aug 06 10 03:17 PM

China's athletics bosses have come under fire for allowing 110 metres hurdler Liu Xiang to skip the national trials for November's Asian Games and still take a place in the team.

The former Olympic and world champion has competed in just six races, five of which were inside China, since an Achilles injury force him out of the 2008 Olympics.

The Chinese Athletic Association (CAA) has changed its qualification rules to give "former top six Olympians" a place in the team, allowing Liu to attempt to win his third straight Asian Games title in Guangzhou.

"While the others are involved in a fierce struggle for a place, Liu goes through without even the slightest effort," said a commentary in the China Youth Daily newspaper.

"It is an offence to other athletes rather than protection for Liu. Where is the spirit of fair play?"

The CAA argued that Liu would not be the only one benefit from the new rules.

"The change was not only for Liu's sake. We want to guarantee the best athletes going to the Asian Games," CAA vice director Feng Shuyong told the Beijing News.

The 27-year-old Liu underwent an operation on his foot in late 2008 but was still not yet fully fit, according to his doctor.

"We do not want to interrupt Liu's recupration and training schedule. We want him to focus on preparing for his third Asian Games title," Feng added.

The Nov 12-27 Asian Games would be Liu's only remaining competition for the rest of the year, his coach said last month.

Source: Published>

India lose to Canada in world junior squash

Published>Fri, Aug 06 10 02:57 PM

Quito (Ecuador), Aug 6 (IANS) India went down fighting to Canada 1-2 in the quarterfinals of the World Junior boys squash championships.

Canadians Andrew Schnell and Nicholas Sachvie were too strong for Aditya Jagtap and Ravi Dixit, respectively, winning the match in straight games while Ramit Tandon defeated Arjun Gupta in the dead rubber here Thursday

The results:

Canada beat India 2-1 (Andrew Schnell beat Aditya Jagtap 11-5, 11-9, 11-4; Nicholas Sachvie beat Ravi Dixit 11-7, 11-7, 11-4; Arjun Gupta lost to Ramit Tandon 2-11, 1-11).

Source: Web Search

Opposition corners government over CWG

Published>Fri, Aug 06 10 02:37 PM

New Delhi, Aug 6 (IANS) Opposition MPs in the Lok Sabha Friday demanded that Prime Minister Manmohan Singh speak in the house on the Commonwealth Games scam and sought a debate under an adjournment motion.

The opposition cornered the government on the alleged scandals in activities related to the October Games and did not allow Urban Development Minister S. Jaipal Reddy to intervene during zero hour.

This led to heated exchanges between Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Congress MPs, with the latter arguing that Reddy had a right to intervene during the debate on a matter related to his ministry.

BJP and Janata Dal-United MPs, alleging a whopping scam in the Games construction, demanded a reply from Manmohan Singh. They trooped to the well of the house forcing the speaker to adjourn the house till 2 p.m.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pawan Kumar Bansal criticised the opposition for not allowing the minister to speak.

'It is unprecedented and against the spirit of parliamentary democracy,' Bansal told reporters later.

Earlier, Samajwadi Party MPs, led by Mulayam Singh Yadav, staged a walkout over the wrongdoings in the Commonwealth Games.

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Indian spinners trigger Sri Lankan collapse

Published>Fri, Aug 06 10 02:17 PM

Colombo, Aug 6 (IANS) Spinners Pragyan Ojha and Amit Mishra put India on top as Sri Lanka collapsed at lunch on the fourth day of the third and final cricket Test here Friday. Sri Lanka were 144 for eight at lunch with Thilan Samaraweera batting on 34 and Ajantha Mendis at 10.

Resuming at 45 for two, Sri Lanka lost five wickets for 24 runs in the first session and slipped to 87 for seven at the P. Sara Oval here. Sri Lanka now have a lead of 133 runs. They made 425 in the first innings and bowled out India for 436.

Left-arm spinner Ojha bagged three wickets and leg-spinner Mishra two as top-ranked India kept alive their hopes of levelling the series after losing the first Test in Galle by 10 wickets. The second Test ended in a draw.

Ojha provided the first breakthrough after he trapped nightwatchman Suraj Randiv (6) leg-before, on a delivery after wicketkeeper Mahendra Singh Dhoni dropped a simple catch.

Ojha then removed Mahela Jayawardene (5) and skipper Kumar Sangakkara (28) in successive overs as Sri Lanka were reduced to 78 for five.

Jayawardene edged to Rahul Dravid in the slips while Sangakkara departed after his pull short was lapped up by Suresh Raina at square-leg.

Mishra then picked up Angelo Matthews (5) and Prasanna Jayawardene in successive deliveries to reduce the hosts to 87 for seven. Lasith Malinga (15) denied Mishra a hat-trick and added 38 runs for the eighth wicket with Samaraweera before he was trapped leg-before by Virender Sehwag.

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Lampard says return to Chelsea a "breath of fresh air" after 'disappointing' World Cup

Published>Fri, Aug 06 10 02:07 PM

London, Aug 6(ANI): Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard has said that his return to Chelsea is like a "breath of fresh air" after the trauma of England's failed World Cup campaign.

Chelsea will play their first match of the season on Sunday with the Community Shield against Manchester United.

"I have to be honest and say that the disappointing summer is not affecting anyone at Chelsea. Of course I am disappointed about England and the World Cup, but it is a breath of fresh air to come back to Chelsea," The Sun quoted Lampard, as saying.

"No one wants to go to the World Cup and get knocked out. I'm sure that Brazil, Argentina, Italy and all the other big teams who didn't get to the final feel the same.

"But I'm not going to dwell on it and there has been no niggling mental effect for me because I've come back to a club that has just won the Double."It's an exciting time to be at Chelsea and I think the players and the fans all need to enjoy the fact that we are the Premier League champions," he added.

He further admitted that he was enjoying the prospect of starting the season as the champions rather than trying to win the title for the first time in two or three years.

"I've had a month's rest since the World Cup and that was enough for me because I haven't lost too much fitness in that time," Lampard said.

"I've only been back in pre-season training for a week and a half so obviously I'm not quite there yet, but I think a lot of clubs are having the same problem with their World Cup players," he added. (ANI)

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England getting to understand Umpire Decision Review System better: Strauss

Published>Fri, Aug 06 10 01:21 PM

London, Aug 6(ANI): England captain Andrew Strauss has said that his team is becoming increasingly comfortable with the Umpire Decision Review System (UDRS).

The system is being used in a Test series in England for the first time during the ongoing four-match series against Pakistan.

England had utilised the system in their favour during the Trent Bridge Test, where they thrashed Pakistan by 354 runs, and will now be hoping for a similar outcome in the second Test, starting at Edgbaston on Friday.

"It's still a challenge to know which ones to review and which not to. We reviewed one for Graeme Swann that was going down leg and didn't ask for one off Jimmy Anderson that was hitting leg. Everyone is getting more used to the system now," The Sydney Morning Herald quoted Strauss, as saying.

"The umpires don't seem to be taking offence if a decision is overturned and generally we're getting more decisions right on the back of it and that is a good thing," he added.

The 33-year-old further said that the non-striker had a key role in helping a team avoid speculative referrals that had little chance of success.

"There's always a part of you as a batsman that thinks it isn't out, but the guy at the other end has to be honest," Strauss said.You are not going to get every one right and there's still a reason for the top-order to use a review if it's fifty-fifty, more than the tail. But we're getting to grips with it and understand the mechanisms better," he added.

Earlier, Pakistan skipper Salman Butt had defended his side doing without the system during a batting collapse in the first Test, saying that the technology on offer was "not a hundred percent".

Pakistan were in the midst of a slump that saw them decline to 47 for six on the second day at Trent Bridge when Azhar Ali was given out caught behind for 14.

However, some replays indicated that he had failed to make contact.

"This technology, Hawkeye is not 100 percent and neither is Hotspot. When the ball hits the sticker on the side (edge of the bat) it doesn't leave a mark," Butt had said.

"If the batsman knows he has hit the ball there's no point taking a chance because if it's up there on the big screen it's pretty embarrassing. I think it was very honest of Azhar Ali, good sportsmanship. He edged it and he walked straight away," he added.

Under UDRS, both sides are allowed two unsuccessful challenges before they are barred from requesting a referral for the remainder of an innings.

However, in order not to delay the game, they must make it clear within a matter of seconds of the umpire's original verdict whether they wish to call on UDRS or not. (ANI)

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Ojha, Sehwag trash SL batting

Published>Fri, Aug 06 10 01:17 PM

The Sri Lankan batting collapse has livened up a match that was heading for a tame draw.

The hosts were reduced to a sorry 135 for 8 by the Indian bowlers.

Surprisingly, it was the spin of Virender Sehwag that caught the Lankans napping. He managed to grab three wickets in quick time to go with Pragyan Ojha's three wickets, ensuring thereby a chance for India to grab a win that at one time looked extremely unlikely and thus salvage some pride as the No. 1 ranked Test side.

Once the topline batsmen were sent packing Mishra stepped forward to power two wickets, thereby justifying his place in the Test side, after a performance that never rose to great heights throughout the tour.

The carnage was evident as four Lankan batsmen failed to get into double figures, while two failed to cross into the 20s.

The highest scorer for the Sri Lankans was Samaraweera with 33 and skipper Sangakarra with 28.

Sri Lanka were 143/8 at lunch on day 4

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Kalmadi's aides sacked, SMAM's contract terminated

Published>Fri, Aug 06 10 01:13 PM

New Delhi, August 06 (ANI): Consequent to charges of corruption in the execution of several Commonwealth Games related projects, the Organising Committee, besides accepting the Anil Khanna, the Treasurer of the CGOG and reappointing senior administrator Ashok Kumar Mattoo to the post, also terminated the contract of an Australian sports management firm SMAM (Sports Marketing and Management Private Limited) on charges that the firm had not fulfilled its obligations after receiving $US10 million.

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Strauss backs 'out of sorts' Cook and Pietersen to fire

Published>Fri, Aug 06 10 01:07 PM

London, Aug 6(ANI): England skipper Andrew Strauss is convinced that his star batsmen Kevin Pietersen and Alastair Cook will recapture their form to silence critics.

Going into today's second Test match against Pakistan at Edgbaston, Pietersen has not scored a century in any form of cricket for 17 months, while Cook boasts just 79 runs in his last five Test innings.

"Where batsmen are concerned, you have to take a long-term view. You have to appreciate people will have the odd bad trot. It's the nature of the beast," The Sun quoted Strauss, as saying.

"KP has had a bit of a dip of late, but players of that quality come through. He's been really buoyant this week and putting in the hard work. Results will come," he added.

Strauss is similarly calm over Cook's situation.

"As far as Cook goes, it was only a few Tests ago that he scored a hundred against Bangladesh and he played well in South Africa last winter. He's a quality performer and fantastic rock at the head of our order," he added. (ANI)

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Sri Lanka struggling at 143/8

Published>Fri, Aug 06 10 12:57 PM

Colombo, Aug 6 (IANS) Sri Lanka were struggling at 143 for eight in the second innings at lunch against India on the fourth day of the third and the final cricket Test match at P. Sara Oval here Friday.

Thilan Samaraweera was batting on 33 and Ajantha Mendis 10. The home team started the day on 45 for two and lost six wickets in the morning session.

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Father evasive on Jwala Gutta divorce

Published>Fri, Aug 06 10 12:47 PM

Leading badminton player of 'mixed doubles' Jwala Gutta, who has kept the grapevine buzzing with her alleged link-up with former cricket skipper Mohammed Azharuddin, will reportedly file for divorce from her husband Chetan Anand - another top badminton player in the 'singles' category.

Jwala's father Kranti Gutta told Indian Express Online: "I am neither confirming nor denying the news. Chetan is playing a tournament in Lucknow at the moment and I would not like to comment on this now. Let him finish the tournament and then they will make an announcement on what is going on."

The 26-year-old shuttler is among the top ten doubles players in the world. Her husband Chetan is not much behind either - at the 13th slot in world rankings.

The rumours about Jwala's dalliance with the former cricketer-turned-politician started soon after he stood for the post of president of the Badminton Association of India. He often visited the courts where she trained, sources said. Azhar's bid for the top post was, however, aborted as he backed out before the election.

It is understood Azhar's wife of 14 years Sangeeta Bijlani, for whom he left his first wife, has moved out of the family home and shifted base to Mumbai.

Repeated calls to Jwala Gutta elicited no response.

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