CWG procurement: Treading in murky waters

Sun, Aug 08 10 12:07 PM

Patiala, Aug. 8 -- The Commonwealth Games Organising Committee is having a tough time explaining its decision to rent AlterG treadmills ahead of the globally used Technogym treadmills. While the supposedly NASA-recommended treadmills cost $65,000 (Rs 30 lakh) each, the Technogym treadmills are a much cheaper Rs 6-8 lakh. If the OC's idea was to bring in cutting-edge equipment, the question of why they chose to do so for the two-week event as opposed to installing these machines at training centres, is a pertinent one. And, interestingly, India's elite athletes are as confused about the value of the new-fangled treadmills as anyone else. Interestingly, the country's premier training facility, the National Institute of Sport in Patiala, uses Technogym treadmills. Athletes there told the Hindustan Times that they had never seen, or even heard of, the AlterG treadmills, in all their travels abroad representing India in competitions. In fact, the Athens and Beijing Olympics both had Technogym as equipment partners. What's most mystifying is the OC's claim that the AlterG treadmills, which have an anti-gravity system that make you feel 20% lighter, will somehow help athletes. "If these treadmills improve the efficiency of players why not have them at the National Institute of Sport?" asked an Olympian, who did not want to be named. Another player, who hoped the controversy would die down, said: "We are happy with our equipment here at NIS. The treadmills are world class and these are the same treadmills that were used in the Beijing Olympics." India's elite athletes, drawn from disciplines as varied as boxing, wrestling, athletics, cycling and weightlifting, currently training on Technogym treadmills at NIS, Patiala, just can't understand why the OC is so keen on AlterG. The controversy over the high cost of renting treadmills forced the OC to clarify that they would be buying some treadmills, for the athletes to use, while renting others at Games venues. "We have not ordered treadmills worth Rs 9 lakhs. The picture shown in reports is a household treadmill," A K Saxena, who is the joint director for overlays, clarified on August 4. "The professional treadmill that we were shown costs around $60,000. A high-end treadmill with add-ons will cost $75,000." The fact remains, however, that even the Rs 10.5 lakh that the Chandigarh Sports Department paid for high-end treadmills, is under the scanner.

Source: Published>

'The team showed character'

Sun, Aug 08 10 11:51 AM

Colombo, Aug. 7 -- India's Test squad, barring Harbhajan Singh and Gautam Gambhir, who have already returned home, and all eight replacements for the coming tri-series celebrated their Very Very Special victory for two hours before the senior pros left for the airport. After all, their series-levelling win gave them one of their rare victories on foreign soil. The victory was even sweeter considering that India went into the match without three of their key players - Zaheer Khan, Harbhajan and Gambhir. "Very satisfied with the effort we put in the last Test and the fightback again shows the character of this team," coach Gary Kirsten said. "This is what the team is all about and what we can do in pressure situations. It was particularly satisfying with the way the Test panned out. The end result was special." After conceding the first Test in Galle, India clawed their way back to draw the second and then turned the tables around with an all-round show at the P Sara Oval to level the series. Chasing 257, India were reduced to 62 for 4 early on Saturday. However, centurion VVS Laxman's associations with Sachin Tendulkar (109) and Suresh Raina (unbeaten 87) turned the tide and helped avoid a series defeat in Sri Lanka for the first time in 17 years. "If we would have lost the series it would have been because of the batsmen, a draw means both the batsmen and bowlers did decently well and to win the series it would mean that our bowlers have performed really well over the series," skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni said.

Whether Sangakkara agrees or not, the smiles on the seven Indian cricketers - Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, VVS Laxman, Amit Mishra, Murali Vijay, Munaf Patel and Wriddhiman Saha - as they checked out of the hotel to return home, showed that they had earned more than just a moral victory.

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Punjab & Bengal to play for pride

Sun, Aug 08 10 11:47 AM

Kolkata, Aug. 8 -- On the threshold of redeeming pride, Bengal are a drained lot. Injuries and the wear and tear of four games in eight days have taken a big toll on Shabbir Ali's boys. But only one game away from regaining what Bengal once rightfully considered theirs, they will want to throw everything at Punjab in Sunday's Santosh Trophy final. "This is my fourth Santosh Trophy and my third final," said skipper Snehasish Chakraborty. "It's time I get the taste of winning it. As captain I will try my best," said the Mohun Bagan midfielder, adding that beating Goa in Friday's thriller was one of the best moments of his life. That experience will boost hopes of winning their 30th trophy after 11 years but Bengal need to get past a spirited and disciplined Punjab, who barring their 0-3 defeat to Goa, have mowed down opponents at will. They have a potent attack which is backed by coach Jagir Singh's experience of having won the trophy twice - 2006 and 2008. "It's about who is better at their game on the day itself. There is no point comparing two teams," said Jagir. "Bengal would be raring to win it after beating Goa but we are no pushovers." The eight-time winners will be missing influential midfielder Gurpreet Singh due to a double booking but the rest of the squad is available. The Punjab strikers have hit the right notes all along, having scored 25 goals in eight matches here and Jagir will be again hoping Balwant Singh and Parveen Kumar exploit what he feels is 'a weak Bengal defence.' "The defence definitely looks suspect and there is no reason why we won't be able to get past them if we play the way we have been doing," said Jagir. Ali, however, refused to admit the backline has been inconsistent. "There are bound to be some mistakes but what do you expect against a champion side like Goa," he retorted. Having Abhra Mondal as the last man will give Bengal some confidence. Ali indicated that he wouldn't want to tinker with the goalkeeper's position after his heroics on Friday.

With third striker Shankar Oraon ruled out with a muscle tear, TFA recruit Robin Singh remains Bengal's best hope. The 20-year-old might be fielded as single striker but chances are Souvik Chakraborty might be asked to partner him.

Source: Published>

Mumbai lad breaks record in track event at Patiala

Sun, Aug 08 10 11:17 AM

Patiala, Aug. 8 -- Beginner's luck, third time lucky, all rolled in one? Yes, if you take the case of hurdler Siddhanth T from Mumbai. Not only did he win gold, he also broke the national record in the 110m hurdles in his third senior meet at the National Inter State Athletics championships here on Saturday. He clocked 13.81s to beat the previous record of 13.96s. Siddhanth's romance with the track made him change from high jump to sprint. Starting his career as a jumper, he felt his natural ability to explode and run. It was natural that he transformed himself into a hurdler where he needs speed as well as the ability to clear the obstacles. Ever since he started running, four years ago, he only improved his timings and flourished on the senior circuit. At the Junior Asian Championships in Hannoi he clocked 13.96s and equalled the previous senior national record set by Krishan Mohan K. The 19-year-old also said he had expected a good show here. "I was expecting to run under 14sec, but then the national record happened," he said. "I am very happy that I have achieved this mark at this age. And my target is the London Olympics." His coach Ajit Kulkarni believes he is made for better things and since age is on his side, he can run below 13.50s. Though he missed the Commonwealth Games mark of 13.80s, he felt he might be considered by the selection panel for the Delhi Games.

Source: Published>

Dikshit''s ''final'' Games deadline: Delhi to miss date again?

Sun, Aug 08 10 11:07 AM

New Delhi, Aug 8 (PTI) Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit''s promise of completing all Commonwealth Games projects being implemented by her government by the extended deadline of August 31 is appearing to fall flat. Top officials in Delhi government admitted that key projects like Barapullah Nallah elevated road and renovation of the Yamuna Sports Complex, apart from street-scaping around the Games venues are unlikely to finished by August-end. Chief Secretary Rakesh Mehta said although a carriageway of the Barapulla Nallah elevated road will be completed by August 25, the construction activities on second carriageway could be finished by first week of September only. The four-km-long elevated road between Sarai Kale Khan and the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, the main venue of the event, is being built to provide uninterrupted traffic flow from Games Village near Akshardham temple to the stadium. The over Rs 550-crore project has already missed several deadlines. Similarly, renovation of Yamuna Sports Complex, where archery and table tennis events will take place, is not likely to be completed by August-end. Peripheral works in and around Talkatora Stadium and Karni Singh Shooting Range are also not expected to be over by the deadline. Finance Minister A K Walia has publicly stated that work in Yamuna Sports Complex will not be over by the month-end. Delhi government had undertaken projects worth over Rs 10,000 crore to improve infrastructure in the city ahead of the Games that start on October 3. Works related to plantation and greenery are also lagging far behind. Although plantation works have been allowed to run through September, several agencies planning to put up potted plants are a bit confused as police have objected to placing the pots near the gates of the venues. Facing severe criticism for delay in finishing Games- related projects, Dikshit had last month directed all agencies concerned to complete pending work within the final deadline. Top PWD officials, overseeing street-scaping projects across the city, have also admitted that the works will only be over by mid-September. The department has deployed an additional workforce of 700 labourers to wrap up the street-scaping projects. "Nine agencies are working on various projects to improve various infrastructure in the city. Some of the projects are getting delayed because of lack of coordination among the agencies," said Chief Secretary Mehta. Questions are also being raised over whether the 2,000 flats being renovated by the DDA in Vasant Kunj for stay of technical staff of the Games will be completed ahead of the mega sporting event. DDA engineers, earlier in the week, had said that they will not be able to complete the flats before the Games.

Source: Published>

Punjab & Bengal to play for pride

Sun, Aug 08 10 10:47 AM

Kolkata, Aug. 8 -- On the threshold of redeeming pride, Bengal are a drained lot. Injuries and the wear and tear of four games in eight days have taken a big toll on Shabbir Ali's boys. But only one game away from regaining what Bengal once rightfully considered theirs, they will want to throw everything at Punjab in Sunday's Santosh Trophy final. "This is my fourth Santosh Trophy and my third final," said skipper Snehasish Chakraborty. "It's time I get the taste of winning it. As captain I will try my best," said the Mohun Bagan midfielder, adding that beating Goa in Friday's thriller was one of the best moments of his life. That experience will boost hopes of winning their 30th trophy after 11 years but Bengal need to get past a spirited and disciplined Punjab, who barring their 0-3 defeat to Goa, have mowed down opponents at will. They have a potent attack which is backed by coach Jagir Singh's experience of having won the trophy twice - 2006 and 2008. "It's about who is better at their game on the day itself. There is no point comparing two teams," said Jagir. "Bengal would be raring to win it after beating Goa but we are no pushovers." The eight-time winners will be missing influential midfielder Gurpreet Singh due to a double booking but the rest of the squad is available. The Punjab strikers have hit the right notes all along, having scored 25 goals in eight matches here and Jagir will be again hoping Balwant Singh and Parveen Kumar exploit what he feels is 'a weak Bengal defence.' "The defence definitely looks suspect and there is no reason why we won't be able to get past them if we play the way we have been doing," said Jagir. Ali, however, refused to admit the backline has been inconsistent. "There are bound to be some mistakes but what do you expect against a champion side like Goa," he retorted. Having Abhra Mondal as the last man will give Bengal some confidence. Ali indicated that he wouldn't want to tinker with the goalkeeper's position after his heroics on Friday.

With third striker Shankar Oraon ruled out with a muscle tear, TFA recruit Robin Singh remains Bengal's best hope. The 20-year-old might be fielded as single striker but chances are Souvik Chakraborty might be asked to partner him.

Source: Published>

Leander's ace: Lead role in two Bollywood movies

Sun, Aug 08 10 10:17 AM

Mumbai, Aug. 7 -- Leander Paes' fiery volleys and lionhearted performances have stamped him as the action man of Indian tennis for close to two decades. Now, he is looking to transplant the same adrenaline-inducing antics to the silver screen. "I have signed two Hindi films. Both have me in the lead role as an action hero. Shooting begins this December," Paes told HT. Why movies? "For I love watching them. The ability of a film to transport one to another world for the extent of two-odd hours is exhilarating." Sure, tennis requires creativity but a sports pedigree may not be the best ladder to celluloid brilliance. "Bengali poet and dramatist Michael Madhusudan Dutt is my ancestor from my mother's side. That takes care of the pedigree. As far as I am concerned I have played out some of my most intimate personal moments in front of stadiums full of people, that surely has taken care of stage fright of any kind!" What's the movie about? "I am not at liberty to discuss the first one. The second one with the working title of Rajdhani is a common man's story that urges you to be the change that you want to see in the world."

Source: Published>

Man City only club to rival Real's spending, says Emery

Published>Sun, Aug 08 10 09:37 AM

Manchester City are the only club in the world who can match the spending power of Real Madrid and that cash is likely to turn the English side into giants themselves, said Valencia coach Unai Emery.

After watching City beat his team 2-0 in an entertaining pre-season friendly at Eastlands on Saturday, Emery claimed City were clearly potential champions and could also establish themselves as one of the biggest clubs in the world.

"On a world-wide scale Manchester City are being viewed as the only other team to be compared finance-wise with Real Madrid," he told a post-match news conference.

"They might have even have gone beyond Real Madrid in terms of their transfer budget and who they have signed. I think they are really looking to become among the biggest top three clubs in the world according to the investments they are making.

"That investment is leading them to get a squad together of really great players. They have basically creamed off the best players from around the world and they are clearly on their way to being a clear candidate to win the title here in England."

City, the world's richest soccer club, have splashed out about 300 million pounds ($477.1 million) on a host of quality players since Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al-Nahyan of the United Arab Emirates took over the Manchester club in 2008.

BEST PLAYERS

Asked how long it might take City to win the domestic title or European Cup, Emery replied: "A lot more goes into winning titles and the Champions League than just investment in players.

"They are getting the best players and are on the right road. There are other factors, obviously you need to gel those players into a team, but certainly potentially, they are on the same level as Manchester United and Chelsea in this country."

Among the players City have purchased is David Silva from Valencia and Emery has no doubts the winger who tasted World Cup success with Spain this year will be a success in England.

"As a guy he will have no problems settling into the dressing room atmosphere. He is a pleasure to train and on the field he will have absolutely no problems settling in.

"If things are going well on the field... what happens off it is less important, adapting to a different culture and lifestyle. On the field he will make an immediate impact."

He said Valencia's aim for the new season was to challenge for the top four again after finishing third last season and securing a place in the Champions League group stage.

But he said the Premier League was the best in the world.

"We have a competitive league in Spain but the Premier League, with Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal, Liverpool and the others, is the hardest to win. Add Manchester City to that now. They are definite contenders too."

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Pietersen builds England lead after controversy

Published>Sat, Aug 07 10 08:57 PM

Kevin Pietersen was unbeaten on 78 after escaping two possible dismissals on day two of the second test as England reached 191 for three when rain forced an early tea on Saturday at Edgbaston.

England, replying to Pakistan's record low of 72, were 119 runs ahead and well placed to take a 2-0 lead in the four-match series.

Pietersen, nearing his first century in 23 test innings, was dropped three times and survived a possible dismissal off a dead ball, while Paul Collingwood had six. The only batsman to fall in the afternoon session was Jonathan Trott for 55.

Pietersen, dropped twice on Friday, got another life on his overnight score of 36 off Mohammad Amir. An inside edge on to his pad ballooned towards Umar Amin at gully but the fielder, distracted by an lbw appeal, spilt a simple chance.

He received another controversial reprieve when on 41. As pace bowler Mohammad Asif approached his delivery stride, Pietersen started to pull away from his batting stance, but still played a half-hearted stroke and was caught by a diving Salman Butt at mid-off.

Pakistan claimed the catch but South African umpire Marais Erasmus signalled dead ball after the catch was taken. Butt appeared confused and upset by the ruling, while Pietersen reaffirmed his belief he was not ready to receive the ball.

A senior official told Reuters Erasmus had verbally called it 'dead ball' before Asif had delivered the ball.

The laws of cricket states an umpire "can call dead ball if for an adequate reason the striker is not ready for the delivery... and if the ball is delivered, makes no attempt to play it."

However, Pakistan were left frustrated as Pietersen played the ball.

Pietersen registered his half-century with a leg-side boundary off Amir, before going on to boss the Pakistan attack as sunshine broke out at a half-full Edgbaston that is undergoing major reconstruction work.

A boundary off the back foot through cover from off-spinner Saeed Ajmal was a more assured stroke. But his luck continued shortly after when he nicked Ajmal for four via the wicketkeeper's pad though it was not a chance.

Trott appeared almost anonymous such was Pietersen's involvement in all the major incidents of the day, though his straight drive for four off Umar Gul that took him to his 50 demonstrated his growing confidence.

But Trott did not remain for long thereafter. After Gul left the field with an injury part-time medium-pace bowler Amin removed Trott in his second over.

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Laxman now in elite company of Vishwanth, Gavaskar and Tendulkar

Published>Sat, Aug 07 10 08:07 PM

Colombo, Aug 7 (IANS) V.V.S. Laxman with his match-winning unbeaten 103 in the second innings of the third and final cricket Test against Sri Lanka here Saturday has become the fourth Indian to post a century for a winning cause in the fourth innings of a Test.

Laxman joins Gundappa Viswanath, Sunil Gavaskar and Sachin Tendulkar in the list of the batsmen who had scored a century in the fourth innings for a winning cause.

Laxman's second century against Sri Lanka is his 16th in Tests -- ninth in an overseas Test.

For Laxman, it was also his first hundred in Sri Lanka -- and also his first in the fourth innings of a Test match, outstripping the 74 against England at Lord's in July 2002.

The following are the other statistical highlights of the games:

Sachin Tendulkar has amassed 390 at an average of 78.00 - the most by an Indian in the just concluded series and the second best, next only to Kumar Sangakkara's tally of 467 (ave.116.75).

Tendulkar has averaged 50 or more in seven consecutive series for the first time.

Laxman is the fourth Indian to post a century for a winning cause in the fourth innings of a Test, joining Gundappa Viswanath, Sunil Gavaskar and Sachin Tendulkar

For the first time, Laxman has registered a hundred and a fifty in a Test match against Sri Lanka - 56 and 103 not out.

Laxman and Sachin Tendulkar were associated in a stand of 109 for the fifth wicket - India's highest against Sri Lanka at Colombo (PSS), outstripping the 105 in the first innings of the just concluded Test.

For Tendulkar, the aforesaid partnership is his 77th century stand - a tally bettered only by Rahul Dravid (82) and Ricky Ponting (78).

Tendulkar has amassed 867 runs at an average of 86.70, including five centuries and two fifties, in seven Tests - the highest tally by any batsman in 2010.

Suresh Raina has batted exceedingly well in his debut series, averaging 111.50 - 223 in three innings, including one hundred and one fifty.

India's fourth triumph over Sri Lanka in Sri Lanka is their 35th on foreign soil in 216 Tests (Lost 89 and Drawn 92).

India's five-wicket victory is their first in four Tests at Colombo (PSS).

After losing to Pakistan sixteen years ago, way back in 1994, by 301 runs, Sri Lanka have lost their first Test at this venue. Sri Lanka had won five consecutive Tests prior to the just concluded Test.

Suraj Randiv (5/82) has recorded his first five-wicket haul in Tests, obliterating the 4 for 80 in the first innings of the just concluded Test.

Randiv's match figures of 9 for 162 are the best by a Sri Lankan spinner against India at Colombo (PSS), surpassing the 8 for 137 by Ajantha Mendis in 2008.

Sri Lankan fast bowler, Rumesh Ratnayeke's figures of 9 for 125 in 1985 are the best for Sri Lanka against India.

Laxman has received his fourth Man of the Match award - his first against Sri Lanka.

Virender Sehwag has rceived the Player of the series for the fifth time - an Indian record.

Tendulkar (54) has posted his 56th fifty in Tests - his sixth against Sri Lanka.

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No question of recognising IHF again, says FIH official

Published>Sat, Aug 07 10 07:51 PM

New Delhi, Aug 7 (IANS) International Hockey Federation (FIH) vice-president Antonio Von Ondarza said Saturday that the international body will only recognise Hockey India (HI) as the custodian of the sport in the country and not the Indian Hockey Federation (IHF)as decreed by the Indian sports ministry.

Speaking to IANS from Monchengladbach in Germany, Ondarza said the FIH will stick with HI come what may and there was no question of recognising IHF which was derecognised in 2000 after it failed to merge with the women's federation as per FIH's rule of country one federation.

'We will continue to recognise HI as the official body of the sport in India. We recognise it as it is also affiliated to the Indian Olympic Association (IOA). There is no question of recognising IHF again,' said Ondarza, who was here to oversee the HI elections Thursday.

The sports ministry has asked FIH to recognise the K.P.S. Gill-led IHF as the sole governing body of the sport and asked the world body to follow suit.

The sports ministry's decision came a day after it withdrew provisional recognition of HI for not holding the election as per the government guidelines.

The ministry, in its letter to FIH president Leandro Negre, said: 'The 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 National Sport Federation (NSF) for management, control and promotion of hockey in the country, and is also not authorised to select and field the national team in international competitions.

'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.'

IHF was disaffiliated by the IOA in April 2008 and Gill was sacked following a cash-for-selection scam.

The Delhi High Court last month lifted the suspension and asked IOA and the ministry to recognise IHF as the sole authority for running the sport in the country.

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We played better cricket in the series: Sangakkara

Published>Sat, Aug 07 10 07:47 PM

Colombo, Aug 7 (IANS) Sri Lankan captain Kumar Sangakkara feels that the hosts were a better side despite sharing the three-match cricket Test series 1-1 with India here Saturday.

'We scored more runs, took more wickets and created more opportunities as compared to India. But we could not make the most of the opportunities in the last two tests. It was the only way India could get back in the series,' Sangakkara said.

Sri Lanka won the first Test by 10 wickets and India came back strongly in the second to draw it. The visitors won the third and the final Test to level the series 1-1.

'I think we had a couple of chances this morning with Sachin (Tendulkar) and then with (Suresh) Raina. The game would have been a lot more interesting had we grabbed the chances. But at the same time, they (India) batted really well and positively and kept scoring runs. Other than Suraj Randiv and (Lasith) Malinga, we could not exert pressure from the other end either to take wickets or to cut down runs,' he said.

India, Sri Lanka and New Zealand will now meet in Dambulla for the triangular series starting Tuesday.

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Mahindra Great escape concludes successfully in Goa

Sat, Aug 07 10 07:37 PM

Panaji, Aug 7 (PTI) The 60th edition of the Mahindra Great Escape, one of India''s most loved off-roading adventures, concluded successfully here with over 80 vehicles from the Mahindra stable manoeuvring the challenging route. Mahindra customers from Goa and its neighbouring areas, including Mumbai, participated in the rally. The rally was flagged off at 10:00 am from Majestic Hotel, Porvorim, North Goa. Iconic Mahindra SUVs such as the Scorpio, Bolero, Gateway, Legend, Major and Classic negotiated an arduous 75 km route consisting of rocky terrain, slush, canals and streams. En route, the convoy of vehicles passed through the hamlets of Colvale, Revora, Pirna, Sirsaim, Asonora, Advalpal, Nanora, Ladfem and Bicholim before reaching Porvorim, the finish point. "We are delighted to return to Goa, one of our favourite destinations, for the 60th edition of the Mahindra great escape. The scenic yet challenging route was an off roader''s delight and gave Mahindra customers an idea of the tough and enduring nature of Mahindra Vehicles," said Vivek Nayer, senior Vice-President, Marketing automotive sector, Mahindra and Mahindra Ltd. "We plan to return with another fun-filled edition of the Great Escape, shortly," he said.

Source: Published>

Lahiri finishes tied eighth, Que wins title at Selangor Masters

Published>Sat, Aug 07 10 07:27 PM

Petaling Jaya (Malaysia), Aug 7 (IANS) Anirban Lahiri's finishing woes continued for the second day running and for the third time in four days as he dropped a double bogey near the finish and ended in a tie for eighth place at the Worldwide Holdings Selangor Masters golf here Saturday.

What hurt Lahiri most was that his four dropped shots - double bogeys on the 18th in the third and final round - was just the difference between him and the winner, Angelo Que of the Philippines, who claimed a play-off victory over England's Chris Rodgers.

'Next year when I come back, I need to make friends with the 18th hole during the practice round because it probably cost me the victory this year,' said Lahiri.

'I played well from the start, hit a lot of fairways and found most of the greens. I hit a few bad drives on the back nine and that pulled me down. I double bogeyed the 18th hole again just like yesterday.'

Lahiri had also double bogeyed the 16th on the first day. 'It is not easy when you have to start and stop play (weather suspension). You have to learn to cope and get back in the groove. All in all, I'm happy with the way I finished but I still got some work to do. This is a course that is tough on the mind. You have to stay calm and I'm glad I came through the week mentally strong.'

The 31-year-old Que outlasted a battling Rodgers with a par at the first extra hole after both players finished tied on six-under-par 278 in regulation play at the Seri Selangor Golf Club.

Lahiri's final round 70 saw him finish the week at two-under 282 in tied eighth place, the best finish from among the 10 Indians who teed off this week.

The next best effort came from Gaganjeet Bhullar (72) was tied 21st up four places from his overnight 24th after finishing at two-over 286. Rahil Gangjee (74) ended 50th at nine-over 293 and Gaurav Pratap Singh ((76) was 65th dead last from among those who made the cut.

Kunal Bhasin, Australian of Indian origin shot a final round of 72 despite two bogeys on the back nine for a total of one-under 283 and he finished tied 11th.

Lahiri with four birdies and just one bogey on the front nine seemed to be making a charge as he turned in three-under 33. A bogey on tenth and a birdie on 11th followed by a series of pars saw him at four-under and in the running for a top-five. But he double bogeyed the hole and dropped down.

Thailand's Thaworn Wiratchant finished third, one shot out of the play-off, after a 68 which included a costly double bogey on his last hole while Australians Scott Barr and Brad Smith shared fourth place with Filipino Juvic Pagunsan on 280.

Taking a one-shot lead into the final round, Que, whose last victory was at the 2008 Philippine Open, carded a 70 in the final round and was caught by playing partner Rodgers, who closed with a 69.

But the Englishman was forced to settle for his fourth runner-up finish in Asia after making mistakes in the play-off to allow Que to snatch victory and the winner's cheque of $59,717.

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Record crowd at Soccer City in first post-World Cup event

Published>Sat, Aug 07 10 07:17 PM

A record 87,000 spectators filed into Johannesburg's Soccer City stadium for South Africa's season-opening Charity Cup on Saturday, less than a month after the arena hosted the World Cup final.

The country's Premier Soccer League (PSL) said it had sold 80,000 seats for the one-day tournament, which features four teams in three separate matches, and handed out a further 7,000 complimentary tickets.

It was the first event at the stadium since Spain beat the Netherlands 1-0 on July 11 to lift the World Cup. The attendance figure will be broken again in two weeks when a first-ever rugby match is hosted at the cavernous venue, which gained iconic status during the World Cup for its distinctive look, resembling a colourful African calabash or pot.

A 88,791-seat sellout for the Tri-Nations test between the Springboks and New Zealand's All Blacks on Aug. 21 has already been announced.

Soccer City has a total capacity of 94,700 but during the World Cup only some 84,000 seats were sold because place was required for extensive media and VIP facilities.

The PSL is hoping heightened interest following the success of the World Cup will spark an increase in attendance for local league games, which have been poorly supported over the last decade.

"We certainly want to see the fans coming into the stadiums, we want to see all the people who were at the World Cup coming back and experiencing more," said the league's chief executive officer Kjetil Siem.

In an effort to capitalise on post-World Cup fever, the PSL announced it would kick off its league campaign on Aug. 27 with two back-to-back matches at the Green Point Stadium in Cape Town, also built for the World Cup.

The stadium's capacity has been reduced to 52,000 with the removal of temporary seating installed for the World Cup. PSL spokesman Altaaf Kazi told Reuters they were confident of a sell-out crowd.

The new stadium in Durban will also be used for local league matches this season.

Saturday's Charity Cup traditionally opens the season with the country's four most popular clubs, voted for by public ballot, contesting two semi-finals and then a final, starting at 10 am local time and concluding well into the night.

Tickets for the day cost 50 and 70 South African rand (about $7-$10), less than half for the cheapest seat at the World Cup.

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Wrestlers will be force to reckon with in Commonwealth Games: Sushil Kumar

Published>Sat, Aug 07 10 06:57 PM

New Delhi, Aug 7 (IANS) India's Olympic bronze medal winning grappler Sushil Kumar feels that the wrestlers will win a rich haul of medals in the Commonwealth Games as the sport comes back in the fold after being left out from the 2006 edition in Melbourne.

'Wrestlers have always contributed a lot to India's medals tally in the Commonwealth Games. We are excited at the chances of repeating the show again this time,' said Sushil.

'As wrestling was not among the events at the Melbourne Commonwealth Games, India missed a chance to boost their medals tally,' Sushil said.

Now with wrestling back at Delhi 2010, Sushil said that the wrestlers are determined to bag a lot of medals for India.

'I was disappointed to miss the 2006 Commonwealth Games. I won the gold at the Commonwealth Wrestling Championships, and I was a strong contender for a gold medal in Melbourne,' he said.

'I feel proud that my bronze medal in the 2008 Beijing Olympics has contributed in boosting the confidence of Indian wrestlers, all of who are now eyeing medals in the 2010 Delhi Commonwealth Games,' said Sushil.

Sushil said India, Canada and England were traditionally the strong nations in Commonwealth Games wrestling, while other major challengers for medals would come from Australia, Pakistan and South Africa.

Source: Web Search

Pietersen lives dangerously in second test

Published>Sat, Aug 07 10 06:47 PM

Kevin Pietersen diced with danger as he escaped two possible dismissals on day two of the second test as England reached 125 for two when rain forced an early lunch on Saturday at Edgbaston.

Pietersen was 42 not out at the interval and Jonathan Trott was on 37 when a heavy downpour caused the interruption after play started 35 minutes late because of rain.

Pietersen, dropped twice on Friday, got another life on his overnight score of 36 off Mohammad Amir. An inside edge on to pad ballooned towards Umar Amin at gully but the fielder, distracted by an lbw appeal, spilled a simple chance.

Pietersen, who was often looking to whip balls on off stump through midwicket, was living dangerously despite an obvious eagerness to score his first test century in 23 innings.

His received another controversial reprieve when on 41. As pace bowler Mohammad Asif approached his delivery stride, Pietersen started to pull away from his batting stance, but still played a half-hearted stroke and was caught by a diving Salman Butt at mid-off.

Pakistan claimed the catch but South African umpire Marais Erasmus signalled dead ball after the catch was taken. Butt appeared confused and upset by the ruling, while Pietersen also reaffirmed his belief he was not ready to receive the ball.

A senior official told Reuters Erasmus had verbally called it 'dead ball' before Asif had delivered the ball.

The laws of cricket states an umpire "can call dead ball if for an adequate reason the striker is not ready for the delivery.... and if the ball is delivered, makes no attempt to play it". However, Pakistan were left frustrated as Pietersen played the ball.

England led by 53 runs at the break after bowling Pakistan out for their record low against England of 72 in the first innings. Pakistan have now dropped four chances in the innings, following three on Friday.

Source: Web Search

Laxman proved why he is called very very special: Dhoni

Sat, Aug 07 10 06:23 PM

T V Sriram Colombo, Aug 7 (PTI) V V S Laxman''s unbeaten century under pressure showed why he is regarded as "very very special", captain Mahendra Singh said today, attributing India''s series-levelling victory against Sri Lanka to a "collective effort". Laxman cracked a fighting unbeaten 103 and anchored the innings brilliantly while Sachin Tendulkar (54) and Suresh Raina (41 not out) gave him the perfect support from the other end as India defeated Sri Lanka by five wickets to level the three-match Test series 1-1. Dhoni said Laxman, who was struggling for runs in the series, always has the habit of coming up with something special when it mattered most for the team. "He (Laxman) proved today why he is called very very special. He always comes up with innings that have a huge bearing on the game. It was very important for him to score runs as the team needed it most to level the series. I think it is a very special innings. Hopefully, he plays plenty more innings like this for us," the jubilant Indian skipper said. "I think the way he batted he paced his innings really well. He was struggling a bit with back spasm but still he wanted to go on without a runner. But after lunch there was a time when he had to go for a runner. I think there was pain and there was pressure at the same time," he said. Dhoni was also full of praise for Tendulkar and Raina, who played a vital role in the victory along with Laxman. "I think Sachin too batted really well and after he got out, Raina came in and supported Laxman. "Raina batted well. In the initial few balls he played a few big shots but after that he calmed himself down and batted sensibly," he said. He said the win was the result of a collective effort and both his batsmen and bowlers did their bit. "If we had lost this series it would have been because of our batting line up not performing really well. If it was a draw series which meant that both the batsmen and the bowlers did decently," Dhoni observed. "I think in the first Test the batsmen could have done much better. I cannot really complain about the bowlers because in all the three Test matches we bowled first on a fresh track where there was not much help for the fast bowlers initially or the spinners. But this was one track where there was a bit of help for the spinners right from the very first day," he said. More PTI TVS SSC MRM

Source: Published>

Sri Lanka was better side in Test series: Sangakkara

Published>Sat, Aug 07 10 06:17 PM

They let India level the three-match series by not grabbing chances but Sri Lanka was a better side throughout, host skipper Kumar Sangakkara said on Saturday.

India today won the third Test by five wickets to deny Sri Lanka a series-win but Sangakkara drew satisfaction from their dominating performance.

"It is one all. It is neither here nor there. But I thought right through the Test series we took more wickets. We scored more runs and we definitely created a lot more opportunities.

"Of course we did not convert those opportunities in these two tests. It was the only window India had to come back to the series," Sangakkara said.

The Lankan skipper said the third Test could have taken a different turn had they grabbed chances against Sachin Tendulkar and Suresh Raina today.

"I think we had a couple of chances this morning with Sachin and then with Raina. I think that would have made it lot more interesting. But the way they batted was excellent. They batted very positively, they kept scoring runs. And apart from Suraj Randiv and Malinga we could not exert pressure from the other end either to take wickets or to cut down runs."

Sangakkara said a score of near-300 would have made the contest more tight.

"I think we would have liked to have close to 300 runs but the situation that we had 250 to defend was a great effort from Mendis and Thilan Samaraweera. Few chances here and there and all of them have proved crucial in the final analysis," he said.

Sangakkara also praised the preparation of the wicket, which had something to offer to all the players.

"Usually it helps the fast bowlers a bit more than that, But the statistics show that the team batting last have won every test match here in the past two years.

"But probably the wicket was dry than it has been before. And probably it offered enough for every one in the first two days and more more to the spinners over the last three days. But over all a great wicket," he said.

Source: Web Search

Bopanna-Qureshi shock Bryans at Legg Mason Tennis

Published>Sat, Aug 07 10 06:07 PM

Washington, Aug 7 (IANS) India's Rohan Bopanna and Pakistan's Aisam Ul-Haq-Qureshi shocked second-seeded Americans Bob Bryan and Mike Bryan 7-6(6), 7-5 to enter the semi-finals of the Legg Mason Tennis Classic here.

The Bryans' defeat Friday was their first here since 2003. The two had won three successive titles in 2005-2007 and had won a record-breaking 62nd team title in Los Angeles last week, where they had beaten Bopanna and Qureshi in the semi-finals.

The unseeded pair of Bopanna and Qureshi fired 17 aces to seal the match in 80 minutes. They converted one of the five break points to seal victory in the 12th game, as Mike finished with two double faults.

Bopanna and Qureshi will next play American Mardy Fish and Mark Knowles of the Bahamas. Fish and Knowles defeated Sweden's Simon Aspelin and Australian Paul Hanley 6-4, 7-5. They dropped just eight points on first serve.

Source: Web Search

India retains top position in ICC Test rankings after series leveling win against Lanka

Published>Sat, Aug 07 10 05:37 PM

Colombo, Aug 7 (ANI): India will retain the No.1 position in the ICC Test Championship table after pulling off a five-wicket series leveling win against Sri Lanka in the third and final Test match of the series at P. Sara' Oval, Colombo, on Saturday.

Team India, who started the Test match on 130 rating points, will drop to 127 points when the table is updated, but will still be eight points clear of second placed South Africa (119 points).

Sri Lanka will move into third place on 115 points, ahead of both Australia (113) and England (111).

India had lost the first Test at Galle by 10 wickets, while the second Test at the Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo had been drawn.

A defeat would have seen India plummet to 122 ratings points, and lifted Sri Lanka to 121 ratings points to get into second position for only the second time since the current Test ranking system was introduced in 2003.

In the ICC ODI rankings, Australia remains at top with 132 points. India is at the second spot with 118 points, while South Africa occupies third spot with 115 points

Chasing 257 on a rather difficult fifth day track, the Indians recovered from early blows suffered on Friday with a 109-run partnership between middle-order batsman VVS Laxman and Sachin Tendulkar that laid the foundation of the win.

Tendulkar was dismissed on 54, when Randiv flighted one outside the leg stump and the Indian, attempting a sweep shot, ended up gloving one to wicket-keeper Prasanna Jayawardene.

Joined by the in-form Suresh Raina, who scored a century on debut in the drawn second Test, Laxman ensured that the boundaries kept coming for India at regular intervals and he alone collected 12 of them.

Raina clobbered Chanaka Welegedara for a six to hand Sri Lanka there first defeat at P Sara Oval Stadium since August 1994, triggering scenes of celebration in the Indian dressing room. He remained unbeaten on 41.

But on the flipside, Mahendra Singh Dhoni's men could not break the 17-year-old jinx of not winning a series in the island nation.

Randiv was the most threatening of Sri Lanka's bowlers and assumed the role of the lead spinner after Murlitharan's retirement in just his second Test. He claimed five wickets in the match.

Brief Scores: India- First Innings 436 (Sehwag 109, Raina 62, Randiv 4-80) econd Innings- 258 for 5 (Laxman 103 not out, Tendulkar 54, Randiv 5-82)

Sri Lanka Ist Innings- 425 (Samaraweera 137 not out, Sangakkara 75, Ojha 4-115) econd Innings- 267 (Samaraweera 83, Mendis 78) (ANI)

Source: Web Search

Sri Lanka was better side in Test series: Sangakkara

Sat, Aug 07 10 05:21 PM

T V Sriram Colombo, Aug 7 (PTI) They let India level the three-match series by not grabbing chances but Sri Lanka was a better side throughout, host skipper Kumar Sangakkara said today. India today won the third Test by five wickets to deny Sri Lanka a series-win but Sangakkara drew satisfaction from their dominating performance. "It is one all. It is neither here nor there. But I thought right through the Test series we took more wickets. We scored more runs and we definitely created a lot more opportunities. "Of course we did not convert those opportunities in these two tests. It was the only window India had to come back to the series," Sangakkara said. The Lankan skipper said the third Test could have taken a different turn had they grabbed chances against Sachin Tendulkar and Suresh Raina today. "I think we had a couple of chances this morning with Sachin and then with Raina. I think that would have made it lot more interesting. But the way they batted was excellent. They batted very positively, they kept scoring runs. And apart from Suraj Randiv and Malinga we could not exert pressure from the other end either to take wickets or to cut down runs." Sangakkara said a score of near-300 would have made the contest more tight. "I think we would have liked to have close to 300 runs but the situation that we had 250 to defend was a great effort from Mendis and Thilan Samaraweera. Few chances here and there and all of them have proved crucial in the final analysis," he said. Sangakkara also praised the preparation of the wicket, which had something to offer to all the players. "Usually it helps the fast bowlers a bit more than that, But the statistics show that the team batting last have won every test match here in the past two years. "But probably the wicket was dry than it has been before. And probably it offered enough for every one in the first two days and more more to the spinners over the last three days. But over all a great wicket," he said.

Source: Published>

Lifter moves court after failing to make it to CWG core group

Sat, Aug 07 10 05:07 PM

Mumbai, Aug 7 (PTI) A national-level weightlifter has moved the Bombay High Court after she was not shortlisted for the forthcoming Commonwealth Games, which India is hosting. A division bench of the High Court would hear weightlifter Mayur Sinhasane''s petition on August 10. Sinhasane, a Mumbai-based player, was ranked third in the recent National Senior Weightlifting Championship at Udaipur, his petition said. According to him, the first eight players of the championship were to be shortlisted in the "core group". Sihasane''s name did not figure in the core group of 32, from which the Indian squad (of eight players in men''s section) would be selected. However, the Indian Weightlifting Federation claimed that Sinhasane was dropped because his performance has been declining over the last few years. The division bench of Justices D D Sinha and Mridula Bhatkar remarked during the hearing yesterday that selectors must give reasons for dropping him. But as Sinhasane has not made the selection panel a party to the petition, the hearing was adjourned.

Source: Published>

Christine Bleakley, Frank Lampard spark marriage rumours

Published>Sat, Aug 07 10 04:51 PM

London, Aug 7 (ANI): Television babe Christine Bleakley and football ace Frank Lampard have sparked rumours that they are planning to tie the knot.

According to sources, Bleakley has set her heart on marrying Lampard on an Italian-style gondola in Las Vegas.

The lovestruck pair checked out marriage packages during a recent hush-hush trip to the gambling city before Frank returned to pre-season Premier League training with Chelsea.

Sources claimed the "head-over-heels" couple stayed at the huge Venetian hotel, which has more than 4,000 suites.

"Frank and Christine managed a very low profile visit to Las Vegas with some of his family after their holiday in Sardinia," the Daily Star quoted a source as saying.

"Both enjoyed their visit hugely. Frank has been a regular visitor to Las Vegas while Christine fell in love with the whole experience.

"The Venetian is famous for its romantic wedding packages, which include the bride and groom being taken on a gondola trip.

"The hotel's waterway also features its own breathtaking Ponte al di Piazza, also known as "bridge over the square," the source added.

Former 'One Show' host Christine has been dating the 32-year-old soccer star for nine months. (ANI)

Source: Web Search

Govt withdraws HI affiliation

Sat, Aug 07 10 04:47 PM

Mumbai, Aug. 5 -- A few hours after Hockey India elected it's first managing committee, the Sports Ministry withdrew the provisional affiliation given to it for failing to follow government guidelines and declaring itself as a 'private body'. The government rejected Hockey India's clarifications to the show cause notice issued on Tuesday and withdrew the recognition given to function as a National Sports Federation given to the year-old body set up by the Indian Olympic Association (IOA).

In a letter to HI, the Ministry said: "As HI has refused to accept its public character and has failed to abide by the Government guidelines, it cannot continue to enjoy the Government recognition."

Source: Published>

Laxman relishes sheet anchor role in difficult situation

Sat, Aug 07 10 04:37 PM

Colombo, Aug 7 (PTI) Veteran Indian batsman V V S Laxman, who guided India to a series-levelling win over Sri Lanka in the third Test, today said he relishes orchestrating wins in difficult situations. Laxman struck an unbeaten 103, his 16th hundred in 116 Tests, to guide India to a memorable five-wicket victory over Sri Lanka batting through the Indian run chase on a difficult fifth day pitch at P Sara Oval. "I am really proud of my achievement today but more importantly I have contributed to India''s victory. I always wanted to bat in such conditions, to win matches for the country from difficult situations," he said when told that it was his maiden century on Sri Lankan soil. "Gary Kirsten was telling me that it was another chance to do something for India. A lot of hard work had gone into winning the match and finally we pulled it off," a relieved Laxman said after India won by five wickets. The stylish batsman said it was the bowlers who brought India back into the game on the second day and fourth day before the batsmen did their job. "It was a collective effort and after the first day and again in the Sri Lankan second innings, the bowlers brought us back. Then the batsmen chipped in. Sachin Tendulkar and I got together to win this game. We are very proud as a team," he said. Captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni also credited the win to team effort but emphasised on the fine show by the inexperienced bowlers. "We came back into the match after the first day and the bowlers did really well though there was something in the pitch. There was bounce for the fast bowlers and turn for the spinners from both ends," Dhoni said. "Then the batsmen did their job and we had the first innings lead. Even in the second Test we had the first innings lead and that showed we had the potential to win the Test though we had an inexperienced bowling attack," he added. Sri Lankan captain Kumar Sangakkara said despite the loss today, his players would be proud of themselves for their show in the series. "We put a very good show in this Test and all through the series. We are proud of ourselves. It is great that younger players have stood up. But credit to India for the win. Sachin Tendulkar and V V S Laxman batted really well to win this Test," he said. Sangakkara picked Suraj Randiv for special praise. "Lasith Malinga and other bowlers did really well in the series but Randiv I think he is coming onto his own. He got all the five wickets in the Indian innings. "It is good for the team since Muttiah Muralitharan has retired, though he cannot be compared with Murali. Had Randiv got enough support from the other end the result of the Test could have been different. But we would hold our heads high with the result (of the series)," said Sangakkara.

Source: Published>

Two Games panel heads roll, one quits

Sat, Aug 07 10 04:07 PM

New Delhi, Aug. 5 -- Buffeted by allegations of fraud and scams, the Commonwealth Games Organising Committee (OC) finally began damage control on Thursday. Two heads rolled, while a third voluntarily quit. In the afternoon, treasurer Anil Khanna, resigned his post following the Hindustan Times report that the firm his son was associated with had been awarded the rights to re-lay the tennis courts for the Games. In the evening, the OC spokesperson Lalit Bhanot announced that two key officials, M Jayachandran and T S Darbari, had been "suspended pending investigation". Both had been under the scanner for their roles in alleged financial irregularities in dealings with London firm A M Films during the launch of the Queen's Baton Relay (QBR) last October. Darbari was joint director general (Chairman Secretariat) in the committee, while Jayachandran was joint director general (Accounts and Finance). A three-member panel that had been formed by the OC to probe the allegations of financial irregularities recommended the suspension. Bhanot said another official being probed, Sanjay Mahindroo, was no longer with the OC. "But the Enforcement Directorate is welcome to probe him too," Bhanot added. Sources also told HT Ajay Grover, Head (Catering) had quit last week because he found the Games catering programme "a mess". His resignation is apparently yet to be accepted. Contract cancelled Holding an emergency executive board meeting earlier in the day, the OC decided to immediately terminate a multi-crore contract with Singapore based Australian firm Sports Marketing and Management (SMAM), citing its 'non-performance'. "The agreement with SMAM (to get sponsorship) had targets which included deadlines. They were supposed to raise $122 million by June 30, which they failed to do," said Bhanot. The OC's contract with SMAM had been widely criticised for allowing SMAM a commission of up to 23 per cent on all deals the OC entered into, including those with public sector units. Interestingly, OC head Suresh Kalmadi, who did not attend the conference, told Hindustan Times only on Wednesday that the SMAM contract had been amended to allow them only 50 per cent of money they would have otherwise got, if it came from a PSU. Sacked official's defence While Mahindroo couldn't be contacted and Jayachandran wouldn't take calls, Darbari told Hindustan Times he was being "hung in a trial by media". "I am devastated," he said. "My life, integrity, reputation and a 30-year record of impeccable service have been tarnished by the yellow journalism of a prominent TV channel, which has acted as judge, jury and executioner and been allowed to do so." He said his role as Joint DG (Chairman Secretariat) during the baton relay was ceremony-related. "It was one of coordination and conduct of activities. It was not related to hiring or negotiating rates with vendors or logistic support companies. I had no role in disbursement of any finances. There is no supporting documentation or evidence in any minutes of any committee meeting showing that I was either a member or had any role in any financial transaction right through my association with the Queen's Baton Relay activities." Documents with Hindustan Times relating to the October 23, 2009 meeting of the committee that decided to evaluate the bids and then hire AM Films UK, for the baton relay launch, show three signatures - that of Jayachandran, Mahindroo and Sudhir Verma, the Deputy Director-General (Communications). Why Khanna quit Meanwhile, Anil Khanna, also the All India Tennis Association (AITA) secretary, replaced as OC treasurer by former treasurer A K Mattoo, said he quit to dissociate himself from "the scams mentioned in the media over the past few days". "I don't want to be seen as being close to corruption," he stated. He added he had asked for "an internal checking system". He said he had written to Kalmadi saying "everybody in the Organising Committee should have a disclosure of interest if they are involved in any financial deals". He insisted he had already intimated his son's involvement in a disclosure to the AITA. He also took a thinly-veiled pot-shot at the OC, while referring to his son's firm's role in the court-laying.

Source: Published>

Nayar to lead Mumbai squad in Buchi Babu

Sat, Aug 07 10 03:53 PM

Mumbai, Aug 7 (PTI) All-rounder Abhishek Nayar would lead the Mumbai squad in the Buchi Babu All India Invitation cricket tournament to be played in Chennai from August 17-30. Notable omissions from the team are last year''s Ranji Trophy-winning captain Wasim Jaffer, batsman Rohit Sharma and left arm spinner Iqbal Abdulla. "The selectors wanted to give chance to youngsters before the Ranji trophy season," said Mumbai Cricket Association''s Joint Secretary Hemant Waingankar. The squad: Abhishek Nayar (C), Sushant Marathe (VC), Swapnil Salvi, Kaustub Pawar, Nilhil Salvi (Sr), Sujit Nayak, Omkar Gurav, Sufiyan Shaikh, Vikrant Yelligatti, Gaurav Jathar, Harmeet Singh, Murtuza Hussain, Nikhil Patil (Sr), Aquib Shaikh, Saurabh Netravalkar, Javed Khan, Parag Khanapurkar. Coach: Pravin Amre.

Source: Published>

E-mail fraud hits Games, Kalmadi sets up probe panel

Sat, Aug 07 10 03:47 PM

New Delhi, Aug. 3 -- Days after Commonwealth Games Organising Committee (OC) chairman Suresh Kalmadi brandished an email from the Indian High Commission in London as proof that the mission had recommended UK-based firm AM Cars and Vans, sources in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) questioned the authenticity of the communication. The OC, for its part, said what transpired between it and the mission was well documented and a probe panel has been formed to look into the 'facts'. Kalmadi also met external affairs minister S.M. Krishna, who apprised him of the situation. AM Cars and Vans was paid £247,000 by the OC for services rendered during the Queen's Baton Relay in London last year. Kalmadi's copy of the email - from Raju Sebastian, a junior officer in the mission - ends with: "The approved vendors for transport are AM Car & Van and The Chauffer Company." But the MEA sources said this line was nowhere in its documents. Rather, the "letter just informed the OC of rates charged by vendors available with the high commission records". "The authenticity of the letters is in doubt. It is alleged the contract was given to AM Cars and Vans on the mission's recommendation. This is against available facts and documents," the sources said.

Source: Published>

Pak horror show sees fans snub ongoing second Test against England

Published>Sat, Aug 07 10 03:23 PM

London, Aug 7 (ANI): A disappointing turnout from Pakistan supporters at Edgbaston for the ongoing second Test against England has been put down to a variety of factors, chief of them being the horror show being put up by the Pakistan team during the ongoing series.

According to The Daily Express, given the bad performance of Salman Butt's side in the first Test at Trent Bridge, the number of Pakistani flags draped on shoulders at Edgbaston was perhaps understandable.

But organisers from Warwickshire yesterday said that 72 all out from the tourists will do little to bring the crowds for the rest of the match.

The organizers defended ticket prices of 60 pounds for adults and 20 pounds for under-16s and said that prices were not to blame for a below-par audience.

"We are obviously disappointed with the support [for Pakistan] but there was absolutely nothing more we could have done in terms of marketing this match," said a county spokeswoman.

"It was done as aggressively as for the Twenty20 matches and we sold 20,000 for those two," she added

Edgbaston staged two T20s between Australia and Pakistan last month and sold 10,000 tickets each time - 90 per cent of them going to Pakistani fans.

But Test matches are proving more difficult to sell. A marketing effort aimed at the large Pakistani communities in cities like Bradford and Huddersfield made little difference to attendances, the paper reports.

The organisers even laid on halal food, prayer rooms and Urdu-speaking stewards, but only 4,329 Pakistani fans came on the first day.

"The appetite for Test match cricket is simply not there but we don't think that ticket prices are responsible. You even see it when England tour Pakistan. Twenty20 cricket and ODI cricket is different though," said a spokesman for the ECB. (ANI)

Source: Web Search

Scoreboard: India vs. Sri Lanka, Third Test

Published>Sat, Aug 07 10 03:07 PM

Colombo, Aug 7 (IANS) Final scoreboard of the third and final cricket Test between Sri Lanka and India at the P. Sara Oval here Saturday.

Sri Lanka 1st innings: 425

India 1st innings: 436

Sri Lanka 2nd innings: 267

India 2nd innings (overnight 53/2):

Murali Vijay c Mahela b Randiv 27

Virender Sehwag c Mahela b Randiv 0

Rahul Dravid b Randiv 7

Sachin Tendulkar c Prasanna b Randiv 54

Ishant Sharma c Sangakkara b Randiv 4

V.V.S. Laxman not out 103

Suresh Raina not out 41

Extras (b 5, lb 6, w 2, nb 9) 22

Total (five wickets in 68.3 overs) 258

Fall of wickets: 1-10 (Sehwag, 1.5 overs), 2-27 (Dravid, 9.1), 3-49 (Vijay, 15.2), 4-62 (Sharma, 21.3), 5-171 (Tendulkar, 51.3)

Bowling:

Lasith Malinga 12-1-49-0

Suraj Randiv 29-3-82-5

Angelo Mathews 2-0-5-0

Chanaka Welegedara 8.3-2-34-0

Ajantha Mendis 14-0-65-0

Tillakaratne Dilshan 2-0-7-0

Toss: Sri Lanka, who chose to bat

Series: 3-match series drawn 1-1

Umpires: Simon Taufel (Australia) and Rod Tucker (Australia)

TV umpire: Kumar Dharmasena

Match referee: Andy Pycroft (Zimbabwe)

Source: Web Search

India beat Sri Lanka in third Test to level series

Published>Sat, Aug 07 10 02:57 PM

Colombo, Aug 7 (IANS) India defeated Sri Lanka by five wickets in the third and the final cricket Test and levelled the three-match series 1-1 here Saturday at the P.Sara Oval.

Set a victory target of 257, India made 258 for five in the second innings with V.V.S. Laxman remaining unbeaten on 103. Sri Lanka made 425 in the first innings and 267 in their second. India were bowled out for 436 in their first innings.

Source: Web Search

India win 3rd test by five wickets, square series 1-1

Sat, Aug 07 10 02:51 PM

Colombo, Aug 7 (PTI) India defeated Sri Lanka in the third and final cricket Test by five wickets to square the series 1-1 at P Sara Oval here today. Brief Scores: Sri Lanka: 425 and 267 India : 436 and 258/5 in 68.3 overs. (VVS Laxman 103 not out, S Raina 41 not out; S Randiv 5/82).

Source: Published>

Ryder in trouble again over drunken behavior

Published>Sat, Aug 07 10 02:47 PM

Jesse Ryder has been fined by New Zealand Cricket after admitting to drunken behavior, the latest disciplinary lapse for the talented but often wayward opening batsman.

Ryder admitted his drunk and noisy behavior drew complaints from guests at a hotel at which he was staying during an indoor cricket tournament. New Zealand Cricket would not say when or where when the incident occurred.

General manager of cricket Geoff Allott said Ryder had brought the matter to New Zealand Cricket's attention and admitted his role in it. He said NZC was extremely disappointed at the "breach of trust and protocol" by Ryder who has previously admitted problems with alcohol.

Ryder has been involved in a series of disciplinary incidents early in his career.

In February 2008, he suffered serious cuts to his hand after breaking a window to gain entry to a hotel toilet.

The following year he missed a team meeting and was unable to train after what was described as "a late-night drinking session," during a home one-day series against the West Indies. He was dropped from the New Zealand team for the fourth match of that series.

At the Champions Trophy in South Africa later the same year he abused team manager Dave Currie when he was reprimanded for hitting a chair after his dismissal against Sri Lanka. He was again sanctioned for misconduct, though the penalty was not revealed.

"We have seen some positive progress from Jesse in recent times, which make this incident even more disappointing," Allott said.

Ryder has been sidelined by a series of injuries over the past year and has struggled to regain fitness and form. In a statement today he said he regretted his latest lapse.

"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," he said.

Source: Web Search

Wayne Rooney spends 10K pounds on underfloor heating for his dogs

Published>Sat, Aug 07 10 02:21 PM

London, Aug 7 (ANI): British footballer Wayne Rooney has splashed out 10,000 pounds on getting underfloor heating set up in the kennels for his dogs.

Rooney, 24, and his wife Coleen have just built a luxury doggy-block at their 4.5million pounds mansion, and they insisted on having the latest hi-tech hidden warmth for their pets.

"Wealthy footballers in the North-West went through a phase of having underfloor heating throughout their homes," the Sun quoted a source as saying.

"Then there was a craze for installing it in their driveways to avoid snow in winter. Now Wayne has taken it one further.

"It's cost him as much as it would to do an average family home. Coleen insisted on it. But Wayne's a softie with dogs so he agreed," the source added. (ANI)

Source: Web Search

Tendulkar, Laxman lead fightback as India need 112 runs for win

Published>Sat, Aug 07 10 02:07 PM

Colombo, Aug 7 (IANS) Sachin Tendulkar and V.V.S. Laxman kept alive India's hopes for a win in the third and final cricket Test with their unfinished 83-run stand in the second innings against Sri Lanka at the P. Sara Oval here Saturday.

Tendulkar was batting on 50 and Laxman at 46 as India made 145 for four in their second innings at lunch while chasing a victory target of 257. India now need 112 runs to win the Test and level the series.

Sri Lanka made 425 in the first innings and 267 in their second. India were bowled out for 436 in their first innings.

Resuming at the overnight score of 53 for three, India lost nightwatchman Ishant Sharma (4), caught at short mid-wicket off Randiv, in the fourth over of the day.

It was the off-spinner's fourth wicket in the innings, having picked up Virender Sehwag, Murali Vijay and Rahul Dravid in the last session Friday.

But Laxman and Tendulkar settled in and brought up the 50 runs of their partnership in quick time.

Sri Lanka missed fast bowler Lasith Malinga, who went off the field after bowling just two overs amid fears that he had aggravated a chronic knee injury.

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I've done no wrong, don't make me scapegoat: Darbari

Published>Sat, Aug 07 10 01:47 PM

New Delhi, Aug 7 (IANS) T.S. Darbari, ousted joint director general of the Commonwealth Games Organising Committee, has sought to clear his name from being associated with charges of financial impropriety regarding an event in London, saying he was not involved in any way in selecting the vendors.

Raising the matter pertaining to hiring of cars, video walls and other equipment during the Queen's Baton Relay function in London Oct 29 last year, Darbari also sought the nod for legal action against the media from the chief executive (CEO) of the Organising Committee.

'A vicious, malafide, motivated media campaign has been launched targeting me personally for certain alleged acts of financial impropriety in connection with the Queen's Baton Relay launch event organised in London,' says his letter to Jarnail Singh.

'I take this opportunity to place on record certain material facts which would show that I have not been a party to any of the alleged acts of omission or commission,' says the letter, a copy of which was obtained by IANS, along with 11 pages of annexures.

The letter makes the following points regarding the event that was attended by the Queen of England and President Pratibha Patil, among other dignitaries:

- He was not a signatory to any decision taken for hiring of cars, video boards and other items for the event from M/S AM Car and Van Hire and M/S/ AM Films

- The entire matter relating to engagement of vendors, passing of bills and release of payments was handled by a committee constituted for the purpose

- The committee comprised three joint director generals: M. Jeychandren for finance and accounts, Sanjay Mohindroo for marketing and Sudhir Verma for communications

- The e-mail in which the name of M/S AM Car and Van was purportedly recommended by the high commission in London was not sent to him directly, but forwarded by Mahindroo.

Darbari, Mohindroo and Jeychandren were suspended by the Organising Committee Thursday, while treasurer Anil Khanna resigned after allegations that his son's firm secured the contract to lay synthetic courts at a tennis stadium here, earmarked for the Games.

The said e-mail was purportedly dispatched by one Raju Sebastian of the high commission in London to Raj Singh, director with the Organising Committee, on Sep 16, and was then forwarded by Mohindroo to Darbari Oct 13.

The letter also seeks to detail the sequence of events that led to the selection of the vendors for equipment, including a request by the authorities in London for some more requirements at a notice of just six days, threatening to cancel the event otherwise.

Accordingly, the Mayor of London's office was requested to help identify the vendors and one among them was selected by the chairman of the committee, based on the suggestion by the selection panel, says Darbari's letter, based on his recollections.

'Despite the continuous nature of vindictive, personalised campaign against me, I have full faith in the management that I will not be made scapegoat,' says the letter, and assures that the intention is not to go public with his defence.

'I have the fundamental right and duty to protect my honour and reputation, which as has been unnecessarily maligned by TV channels and the media. I will seek your permission to take legal recourse at an appropriate time, if required.'

Jarnail Singh heads the three-member panel that has been appointed to inquire into the charges of wrongdoing in OC. The other two are Gurjyot Kaur, chief vigilance officer, and G.C. Chaturvedi, special director general (finance and accounts).

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Rooney to face 'furious' coach after 'smoking, urinating in the street'

Published>Sat, Aug 07 10 01:41 PM

London, Aug 7 (ANI): Three Lions boss Fabio Capello is apparently furious with England footballer Wayne Rooney after he was recently pictured smoking and urinating in the street.

The striker is all set to face Capello when he meets up with his squad on Monday.

"Fabio was very annoyed to see those pictures of Rooney lurching out of a nightclub at 5.30am," The Sun quoted an FA insider as saying.

"Then to see arguably England's biggest star urinating and smoking in public is simply not acceptable and Rooney will be told as much," the source added.

"He must realise those pictures have been seen all over the world and project a truly awful image of English football.

"And the timing couldn't have been worse, coming straight after a dismal World Cup in which Rooney was well below his best," the insider said. (ANI)

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Chelsea aims to finally win Champions League this season: Anelka

Published>Sat, Aug 07 10 01:37 PM

London, Aug 7(ANI): Chelsea striker Nicolas Anelka insists that Champions League glory has become the No. 1 priority at Stamford Bridge.

"Our aim this season is to finally win the Champions League. Could we win a treble, the way Inter Milan did last season? Not so fast - it will be a tough job just to defend our league title," The Sun quoted Anelka, as saying.

"Our biggest rivals will of course be Manchester United, Liverpool and Arsenal, while Manchester City could play a major role. But I believe that this will be the most thrilling season ever in the history of the Premier League," he added.

The 31-year-old further sensationally backed Tottenham Hotspur to win the Premier League this season.

"I rate Spurs very highly. They are absolute favourites to win the title," Anelka said.

He said that he was impressed by the way Harry Redknapp's men shot out of the starting blocks last season, beating Liverpool at home on the first day before never dropping out of the top six.

Chelsea get their season under way on Sunday when they face Manchester United in the Community Shield at Wembley.

They then begin the defence of their Premier League crown the following Saturday with a home game against newly promoted West Bromwich Albion. (ANI)

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Lunch scoreboard: India vs. Sri Lanka, Day 5, Third Test

Published>Sat, Aug 07 10 01:27 PM

Colombo, Aug 7 (IANS) Scoreboard at lunch on the fifth day of the third and final cricket Test between Sri Lanka and India at the P. Sara Oval here Saturday.

Sri Lanka 1st innings: 425

India 1st innings: 436

Sri Lanka 2nd innings: 267

India 2nd innings (overnight 53/2):

Murali Vijay c Mahela b Randiv 27

Virender Sehwag c Mahela b Randiv 0

Rahul Dravid b Randiv 7

Sachin Tendulkar batting 50

Ishant Sharma c Sangakkara b Randiv 4

V.V.S. Laxman batting 46

Extras (lb 6, nb 5) 11

Total (for four wickets in 47 overs) 145

Fall of wickets: 1-10 (Sehwag, 1.5 overs), 2-27 (Dravid, 9.1), 3-49 (Vijay, 15.2), 4-62 (Sharma, 21.3)

Bowling:

Lasith Malinga 8-1-24-0

Suraj Randiv 22-2-57-4

Angelo Mathews 2-0-5-0

Chanaka Welegedara 7-2-22-0

Ajantha Mendis 6-0-24-0

Tillkeratne Dilshan 2-0-7-0

Umpires: Simon Taufel (Australia) and Rod Tucker (Australia)

TV umpire: Kumar Dharmasena

Match referee: Andy Pycroft (Zimbabwe)

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CWG would be held as per schedule, says Pak High Commissioner to India

Published>Sat, Aug 07 10 01:17 PM

New Delhi, Aug 7 (ANI): Pakistan's High Commissioner to India Shahid Malik has expressed hope that the 2010 Commonwealth Games would be held as per schedule.

On the sidelines of an event here on Friday, Malik said: "Well, I hope the Commonwealth Games, you know progresses well, and, we would be looking forward to participating in the Games, as we do in all international events."

He, however, refused to comment on the certain controversies surrounding the preparations for this mega event to be held in October.

"It is not for me to comment on that. I can only say that our athletes, our players, our sportsmen are looking forward to participate," Malik added.

With just over 55 days to go before the opening ceremony, the final preparations for the 2010 Games have been tarnished by construction problems and claims of financial impropriety.

The Central Vigilance Commission has found financial irregularities in several Commonwealth Games related works being carried out by civic and construction agencies.

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. (ANI)

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Ferguson predicts 'competitive' Premier League will be an eight-horse title race this year

Published>Sat, Aug 07 10 01:07 PM

London, Aug 7 (ANI): In his 25th season as Manchester United manager, Sir Alex Ferguson has predicted that the Premier League will be more competitive than ever, with the established top four becoming the big eight team event.

Tottenham finished fourth last season cracking the monopoly when the big clubs, Liverpool in particular, dropped more points than ever before.

Ferguson reckons Manchester City, Aston Villa and Everton are all capable of mounting a challenge.

"It's going to be a very competitive league. It's getting more competitive every season now. There could be a lot of dangers because the level of competition is being raised year on year," The Daily Express quoted Ferguson, as saying.

"Things definitely changed last season - it was a different league to what we had seen before. The so-called top four found it difficult and dropped points in games they wouldn't have expected to," he said.

"That's an indication of the improvement made by the other teams and I think there will be a bit of a dog-fight for the top four places this season.

"Manchester City have bought again and you obviously have to put them into the equation. We all have to be aware of the threats from the likes of City, Tottenham and Aston Villa. And I think Everton, after all the injury problems they had last season, will come into it," Ferguson said. (ANI)

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Tendulkar, Laxman guide India to 145/4 at lunch

Sat, Aug 07 10 12:57 PM

Colombo, Aug 7 (PTI) Sachin Tendulkar and VVS Laxman put together an unbeaten 83-run partnership as India, chasing 257, inched towards a series-levelling win by reaching 145 for four at lunch on the fifth and final day of the third cricket Test against Sri Lanka here today. At lunch, Tendulkar was batting on 50 after capitalising on a dropped catch while Laxman was steady with a chanceless 46-run knock in India''s second innings, which stood at a precarious 53 for 3 at stumps yesterday. Tendulkar''s 50 just before lunch came in 106 balls and comprised three hits to the boundary. Laxman, on the other hand, sent down four boundaries in his 77-ball innings. India suffered the first blow of the day when night-watchman Ishant Sharma (4) was caught at short mid-wicket by Kumar Sangakkara off Suraj Randiv in the morning. Randiv, who ripped in a flighted loopy delivery around off and middle stump, bemused Sharma who looked shaky right from the start. Later, Tendulkar was fortunate when he was dropped by Tillakaratne Dilshan at short leg while trying to push a Randiv turner. The ball had gone of the bat and pad to the right of short-leg and Tendulkar, who was on just 18, heaved a huge sigh of relief when Dilshan spilled the opportunity. The Indian right-hander attacked Randiv thereafter by charging down the track and driving a shot past the bowler for a boundary. Laxman, on his part, played a delightful drive past Tendulkar at the other end as India began to recover from the early blows. Laxman leaned forward to an Ajantha Mendis delivery from the middle stump and turned it on to the boundary, marking the 50-run partnership between the two which came in 92 balls. Laxman then played a superb knock as he drove a Mendis turner between the short cover and short extra cover boundary. PTI TVS PM

Source: Published>

Brit Olympic cycling champ wrecks 80,000 pounds Jaguar in car crash

Published>Sat, Aug 07 10 12:51 PM

London, Aug 7(ANI): British Olympic cycling champ Sir Chris Hoy has proved that he is better on two wheels than four, as he wrecked his 80,000 pound Jaguar in a crash in Manchester.

The incident happened when the four-times Olympic gold medallist collided with a Vauxhall Vectra while driving from the National Cycling Centre on Thursday evening.

His car's front bumper was torn off, but the 34-year-old, his passengers and the other driver all walked away unhurt.

"The Jag came flying out the junction - the driver just didn't appear to see the other car on the main road," The Sun quoted a witness, as saying.

"Afterwards Chris Hoy was talking on his mobile and appeared really shaken up. There were two passengers with him," he added.

Another onlooker said: "He was turning right. He must have looked left, seen it was clear and thought it was clear on the right."

Hoy's Jaguar has a top speed of 174mph, and can go from 0-62mph in 4.6 seconds. (ANI)

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Montgomerie doubts 'mentally out of it' Woods' chances of playing Ryder Cup

Published>Sat, Aug 07 10 12:47 PM

London, Aug 7 (ANI): Europe's Ryder Cup captain Colin Montgomerie has said that No.1 golfer Tiger Woods has lost the plot mentally and has raised doubts about the American's chances of playing at the event.

Woods was in danger of being knocked off the world No1 spot for the first time in more than five years after his four-over-par 74 at the WGC-Bridgestone Invitational in Ohio.

Woods has struggled to find his scintillating form ever since revelations about his private life gobbled global media headlines, The Sun reports.

Montgomerie said: "He's not mentally with it right now, that's obvious. I hope he gets back to some form shortly."

"He lost the world No1 spot to Vijay Singh a while back and didn't like that very much and got it back. This won't please him at all. But more importantly right now for Tiger is thinking about the Ryder Cup, he's not in the top eight of their qualifying.

"It doesn't look like he's going to be in the top eight after this event anyway and that makes the US PGA a very important event for him next week. Does [USA captain] Corey Pavin take a chance hoping Tiger's form will change before the Ryder Cup? That's up to him and not us," Montgomerie added. (ANI)

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