After CWG gold, Poonia gets $20,000 challenge from world champ

Published>Tue, Oct 19 10 05:13 AM

A week after she became the first Indian woman to win a Commonwealth Games gold in track and field ? and the first from the country since Milkha Singh in 1958 ? discus thrower Krishna Poonia remains in the spotlight.

On Monday, news filtered in that the reigning world champion, Australia's Dani Samuels, had challenged Poonia to a $20,000 winner-takes-all match-up. Poonia had earlier said that Samuels' withdrawal from the CWG was more to do with poor form and less about the health and security scare.

Speaking to The Indian Express from Patiala, Poonia said she was not backing out of the challenge, but stressed that winning the gold at the Asian Games would be her top priority. "I am not kicked about the $20,000 prize money. I am fully focussed on winning the gold at the Asian Games," she said. "However, I am ready for any challenge Dani throws at me. If she wants to contest before the Asian Games, she will have to come to India. I don't want to travel abroad as it would affect my schedule. If the match-up is after the Asian Games, I am ready to travel anywhere to compete against her," said Poonia.

The Sydney Morning Herald on Monday quoted Samuels' manager Hayden Knowles as saying, "It could be enormous. It could be like a boxing match. A sponsor has offered $20,000 winner-takes-all, making it the biggest cash prize for a discus event in the world. Sydney's Olympic Park Centre can host the event."

While Poonia's 61.51 metres won her the gold at the CWG, her personal best is 63.69 metres. Samuels' top throw has been measured at 65.84 metres. Both these efforts were recorded this year.

Poonia's husband-cum-coach Vijendra Poonia said: "At the moment, Krishna and I don't want our training schedule to be disturbed. There is a lot of expectation from Krishna after she won the gold at the Delhi Games. But we are not backing away from the challenge."

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Sukhbir firm: Subsidies & pro-poor schemes to stay

Published>Tue, Oct 19 10 05:08 AM

Claims Central loan Rs 3,500 cr & not Rs 35,000 cr as projected

With Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leaders rallying behind their chief Sukhbir Badal in the aftermath of the ouster of former finance minister Manpreet Badal, the confident deputy chief minister made it clear on Monday that the subsidies and "pro-poor" measures of the SAD-BJP regime would continue. Without referring to the former FM, Sukhbir clarified that the total Central loan to Punjab was only to the tune of Rs 3,500 crore and not Rs 35,000 crore, as projected. He said the rest of the debt pertained to loans from banks, financial institutions and small savings, which the Centre had no power to waive off.

Sukhbir said Punjab was among the most less indebted states in the country as its total debt of Rs 64,000 crore was far less than that in other states like Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra and West Bengal. He claimed that the state had almost doubled its excise collection to Rs 3,000 crore, and VAT collection to over Rs 10,000 crore within three years.

After laying the foundation stone of the Wada Gallughara Memorial at Kup Rahira, the site of the largest holocaust of Sikhs, Sukhbir said three memorials at Chhappar Chiri, Kup Rahira and Kahnuwan would be built at a cost of Rs 100 crore by Larsen and Toubro. He also announced a girls college at Kup.

Earlier, SAD secretary general Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa said if the former FM mended his ways, he could still be welcomed back to the party fold, though what he had done was "unpardonable".

Dhindsa accused the former FM of being disloyal to the party and disobeying the disciplinary committee, the political affairs committee and the party leadership.

Prominent among others present at the function were ministers Hira Singh Gabria, Parminder Singh Dhindsa and Swarna Ram, SGPC chief Avtar Singh Makkar, Damdami Taksal chief Baba Harnam Singh Khalsa and Maheshinder Singh Grewal among others.

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INTERVIEW - Korea no easy ride for Red Bull

Published>Tue, Oct 19 10 03:17 AM

Red Bull's Formula One championship contenders, Mark Webber and Sebastian Vettel, have been warned that a journey into the unknown in South Korea this weekend could be tougher than expected.

The sport stages its first grand prix in Korea on Sunday, on a Yeongam track that has only recently been completed, and the one man to have driven a GP car around the circuit feels it could slow Webber's and Vettel's title charge despite their recent dominance.

Karun Chandhok drove the Red Bull demonstration car at Yeongam on Sept. 4, when the surface was in a comparatively rough state, but the Indian driver was still able to get a good idea of the characteristics.

"It's going to be very slippery, very low grip, I would imagine," he told Reuters on Monday.

"The Red Bull is quick everywhere. But I think here, specifically though the first sector of the lap with the three long straights, they may not be as quick as some of the others. Ferrari and McLaren will be strong ...

"Even if the Red Bulls qualify one-two, it will be interesting to see because of the long straights in sector one if they hold that advantage into turn four on the first lap.

"I do think the gap will be closer...I think the gap will be close enough that if (Ferrari's Fernando) Alonso or (McLaren's) Lewis (Hamilton) or Jenson (Button) dig deep they could sneak a win out of it."

INSIDE INFORMATION

With three races of the season remaining, Australia's Webber leads the drivers' standings on 220 points, with Alonso and Vettel in joint second place 14 points behind. Britain's Hamilton is fourth on 192 points and Button, the defending champion and Hamilton's McLaren team mate, fifth on 189.

Vettel is 2/1 favourite to win on Sunday, according to London bookmakers William Hill, with Alonso 11/4 and Webber at 10/3.

Chandhok revealed that Webber and Button are the only title contenders to have quizzed him for inside information on the track.

"You'd expect people to be calling, really," said the Hispania driver, who last raced for his cash-strapped team in July and will not be in Korea.

"I would have done that. Even driving down at the back of the grid, if for example somebody else had gone off there to Korea...I would have been grabbing at their ankles to find out as much as I can about it."

Red Bull had their engineers present at the demonstration run last month, and Chandhok faced questions from technical people with other teams -- as well as widespread concern about the local food and hotels.

"To be fair, a lot of people have very good (track) simulators and they have a lot of faith in their simulators and simulation software," Chandhok said.

"I think a lot of them tend to believe that more than anything else."

VERY CURIOUS

Chandhok, whose Hispania team mate Bruno Senna has pressed him for information, discussed the new Korea circuit with Webber when he and the Australian attended a charity karting event in Britain last month.

"Obviously he was very curious to see what I thought about the place and what the circuit was like," Chandhok said. "They all want to know who it is going to suit, don't they?"

Chandhok said he had spoken more recently with McLaren's Button. "We were chatting about this and that and he was quite curious about Korea," the 26-year-old said.

"I think he had been in a simulator a few days before that...and he was asking me about some of the camber changes in the road. Some of the corners, turn 11 and 12 especially, have quite a bit of on-camber through 11 and it then goes to off-camber through 12.

"I think some of that stuff is not so apparent until you get there. So he had questions about that sort of stuff."

Circuit organisers have been in a race against time to complete the circuit, laying the final layer of asphalt little more than a week ago and passing a final inspection only days later.

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Scandal or substance?

Published>Tue, Oct 19 10 01:52 AM

How does the removal of Kings XI Punjab and Rajasthan Royals impact IPL?

Brand IPL is worth over Rs 18,000 crore according to Brand Finance, a UK-based brand consultancy firm. Any controversy, especially of this nature, is bad for brand IPL. In the last three seasons, IPL's earnings are estimated to be around Rs 4,000 crore. IPL 3's earnings alone stood at around Rs 1,200 crore, of which 75% came from TV rights and the rest from sponsorships, theatrical rights and strategic ad-breaks, among others.

Removal of two teams leaves IPL 4 with only 8 teams instead of 10. This means that the number of matches will stand at 60 in IPL 4 and not 72 as projected by BCCI a few months ago. Less matches means lower earnings for IPL and its franchisees. In an 8-team scenario in 2011, the number of matches will remain the same as in the previous three seasons. Therefore, earnings will also remain the same. The gate money in the case of Delhi Daredevils went up in the last season to Rs 4 crore in some of its matches. Of course, the gate money is dependent on the size and the seating capacity of a cricket stadium. However, expenses will go up for virtually all the teams due to player auctions. But for Kochi and Pune, there will be a drastic rise in expenses as they would have to shell out over Rs 330 crore as franchisee fees?the highest bids for any IPL teams?to BCCI in 2011 and bear the expenses for players, stadia and other administrative costs. Both these new teams are the costliest buys for IPL promoters.

With the ouster of Rajasthan Royals and Kings XI, fans' interest will most certainly go down. Jaipur and Mohali, the home base for these two teams, are unlikely to hold any matches. If they do, the turnout will be low. However, so far the gate receipts have only constituted 10-12% of the overall earnings of an IPL franchisee. But TV rights account for 60-65% of the earnings of all franchisees.

Why did BCCI remove Rajasthan Royals and Kings XI then?

Because BCCI wants to be seen as a sports body that is capable of taking corrective action. However, its role as a silent spectator to all the irregularities in the functioning of IPL in the past three years is also under the scanner. On the day BCCI terminated the contracts of Rajasthan Royals and Kings XI, ousted IPL commissioner Lalit Modi tweeted saying BCCI is destroying something that has become an extremely popular international brand.

Will this affect earnings?

It won't for the 6 existing franchisees?Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bangalore and Hyderabad. However, for Kochi and Pune, this is bad news. They have together shelled out over Rs 3,235 crore to buy the 2 IPL franchisees for a 10-year period. This means that they have to pay at least Rs 320 crore to BCCI as IPL franchisee fees or Rs 160 crore per franchisee per year. On top of this, they have to hire players and a stadium and support travel and other administrative costs. According to estimates, the Sahara Pune and Kochi franchisees will run into losses for at least the next five years. Earnings for Sahara in IPL 4 are projected to be Rs 100 crore while its costs are estimated to be Rs 215 crore.

Will the broadcast earnings be the same as earlier?

The broadcast earnings will remain the same for IPL and since there will be only 8 teams in IPL 4 (assuming Kochi gets its act together in time); the franchisee earnings won't change either. Since 2009, IPL earns around Rs 820 crore per annum from TV rights given to MSM (Sony)-WSG under a renegotiated contract between Modi and Sony-WSG. Sony was asked to pay Rs 425 crore as facilitation fees in March 2009, while the overall rights fees were raised from $1.06 billion to $1.63 billion for 10 years (till 2017). In 2009 and 2010, most franchisees made money as their earnings from TV rights went up. IPL puts 54% of the annual TV rights into a central pool to be divided equally between the franchisees, which comes to Rs 70 crore per franchisee. However, under the original rules, this proportion is to change in later years. A share of the sponsorship money also goes to each franchisee.

Do IPL teams make money?

Almost all teams benefited from the increase in TV rights that Modi negotiated with MSM-WSG in 2009. For example, Mumbai Indians earnings for IPL 2 stood at Rs 125 crore while its expenses (including the franchisee and players' fees) stood at Rs 100 crore. Therefore, it made a profit of Rs 25 crore. TV rights alone constituted 60% to the earnings while the gate receipts accounted for nearly 11%, with the rest coming from sponsorship and endorsement deals. In the last two editions of IPL, most franchisees except Kings XI are said to have made money. Since they have a grasp on the business now, they are expected to make money even in IPL 4. The league has been attracting big moolah since inception. The Manoj Badale-promoted Emerging Media bought Rajasthan Royals in 2008 for $67 million with a clutch of investors, including Lachlan Murdoch, Aditya S Chellaram and Suresh Chellaram (Modi's former brother-in-law).

In 2009, film actress Shilpa Shetty and Raj Kundra (now her husband) bought 11.7% stake for $15.4 million, taking the valuation of Rajasthan Royals to $130 million. Mumbai Indians, the franchisee promoted by Neeta Ambani, was the costliest IPL team in the 2008 auctions, going for $112.9 million or Rs 445 crore. Of course, by 2010, all records were broken when the Sahara Group (Pune franchisee) and Rendezvous Sports (Kochi franchisee) paid $370 million and $330 million, respectively.

Was Modi the only person guilty of misconduct?

No one has been accused of the level of misconduct with which Modi is charged. But Modi had pointed out that BCCI functionary and promoter of Chennai Superkings N Srinivasan has a clear conflict of interest. Then there was Shashi Tharoor, the junior minister for external affairs. He had to quit his job after Modi alleged that Tharoor had asked him not to look at the Kochi franchisee too closely. Even former BCCI president AC Muthiah went to court against N Srinivasan over allegations of conflict of interest. According to Muthiah, the BCCI rules were changed to say "no administrator shall have direct or indirect or any commercial interest in any of the events of the BCCI excluding IPL, Champions League Twenty20 format tournaments." However, Srinivasan later told the media that since there were no takers for the Chennai's IPL franchise, he had requested the BCCI to allow him to bid for the team.

How will Kochi and Pune benefit with only 8 teams in IPL 4 fray instead of 10?

The BCCI has capped the spending of each franchisee at $9 million for the next players' auction but this amount would get reduced if the existing 6 franchisees?Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Chennai, Bangalore and Kolkata decide to retain their existing overseas players. BCCI has already made it clear that the retention of players would result in reduced amounts available from their $9 million kitty. If each of the existing 6 franchisees decide to retain all 4 of their overseas players, they will then have only $4.5 million left to participate in players auction in November. However, both Pune and Kochi will have their full $9 million as they are starting fresh. Also, the players freed from Rajasthan Royals and Kings XI Punjab will have no takers except Kochi and Pune. Therefore, Pune and Kochi will have all of their $9 million to bid for players like Shane Warne, Graham Smith, Brett Lee, Kumar Sangakkara, Mahela Jayawardene and others.

What are the possibilities that the existing IPL franchisees will retain their key Indian and overseas players?

Chances are extremely high indeed.

The captain of Mumbai Indians Sachin Tendulkar and the captain of Chennai Superkings MS Dhoni have already expressed their desire to be part of their respective teams for IPL 4. They also want most of their players to be retained. Mumbai Indians have important and expensive T20 players including JP Duminy (purchased for $9,50,000), Kyle Mills ($1,50,000) and Mohammad Ashraful ($75,000). During IPL's first auction for 2010 earlier this year, Mumbai Indians bought West Indies all-rounder Kieron Pollard for $7,50,000. Mumbai is expected to retain most of these players and if it does, the franchisee's kitty for IPL's fourth season will go down drastically.

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Court throws out NCAA Final Four "lottery" ruling

Published>Tue, Oct 19 10 01:16 AM

A federal appeals court halted a lawsuit accusing the National Collegiate Athletic Association of running an illegal lottery in allocating seats to basketball's Final Four and other popular sports tournaments.

Citing potential "far-reaching effects" from a ruling on the distribution of coveted tickets, the 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Chicago threw out on Monday its July ruling that revived a proposed nationwide class-action lawsuit by fans.

The Seventh Circuit asked the Indiana Supreme Court to assess whether NCAA ticketing constituted an unlawful lottery under that state's law. The NCAA is based in Indianapolis.

At issue is a longtime NCAA policy of forcing fans to pay in advance for tickets they wanted, and assessing nonrefundable service fees even if they lost.

The NCAA had since 1994 used this means to award tickets for such events as the Division I men's and women's basketball Final Four and hockey Frozen Four. It changed its policy this year, but had sought for the July ruling to be reconsidered.

Calling the question of whether the policy constituted a lottery "a close one," the Seventh Circuit said its holding "could have far-reaching effects on sports-ticket-distribution systems utilized by the NCAA and others."

Rob Carey, a partner at Hagens Berman Sobol Shapiro LLP representing the plaintiffs, in an interview said he is confident that Indiana law "does not permit the NCAA profiting by having losers pay for winners in the sale of tickets."

NCAA spokesman Erik Christianson did not immediately return a call seeking comment.

The case is George et al v. National Collegiate Athletic Association, U.S. Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals, No. 09-3667.

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Memory of 2008 won't affect Chelsea in Moscow - Ancelotti

Published>Tue, Oct 19 10 12:37 AM

Chelsea will not be haunted by the memory of their last Champions League encounter in Moscow when they return to the Russian capital, manager Carlo Ancelotti said on Monday.

The English champions face Spartak Moscow on Tuesday at the Luzhniki Stadium, the scene of their defeat on penalties to Manchester United in the 2008 Champions League final.

Ancelotti, however, dismissed any suspicion the disappointment would affect his players against Spartak -- in particular John Terry, who slipped and sent his crucial spot-kick wide in the shoot-out two years ago.

"Most of all, I think it was a great experience for John Terry and others playing in a Champions League final," the Italian told a news conference at the Luzhniki Stadium.

"It's football and sometimes you can lose a big match. I lost one (five) years ago," he said of the 2005 Champions League final, when he was coach of AC Milan and his team blew a 3-0 half-time lead against Liverpool before losing in a penalty shoot-out.

"I don't think it will have any psychological effect on our team," Ancelotti added. "Tomorrow's match is different, it's not a final so I don't think the players will have a problem."

INJURIES MOUNT

Chelsea, who, like Spartak, have won their first two games in Group F, arrived in Moscow without several of their key players, including leading striker Didier Drogba, because of injury or illness.

"We're missing Drogba, (midfielder Frank) Lampard, (defenders) Alex and (Jose) Bosingwa, but we have a big enough squad to cope with any problems," Ancelotti said.

The injuries mounted on Monday, when the Brazilian Ramires was ruled out with an ankle problem.

Ancelotti was asked several times if his club would bid for Manchester United's Wayne Rooney in the next transfer window, but he refused to speculate.

Rooney was left out of United's starting line-up against West Bromwich Albion in the English premier league on Saturday, and British media claim the striker has had a falling-out with manager Alex Ferguson and has refused to sign a contract extension at Old Trafford.

"He has some problems at the moment but right now he is still a Man United player," Ancelotti said of Rooney.

"If you want to know what players Chelsea want to buy and how much money they want to spend on players you should ask Roman directly," he added, referring to the club's billionaire owner, Roman Abramovich.

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FIFA asks for quick actions in votes-for-sales case

Tue, Oct 19 10 12:19 AM

FIFA has launched a formal investigation into allegations that two executive committee members had offered to sell votes in the in the contest to host the 2018 World Cup.

"FIFA has opened proceedings against two current members of the executive committee to ascertain whether they have violated the code of ethics," soccer's governing body FIFA said in a statement on Monday.

"(FIFA) has asked the chairman of the ethics committee to act without delay to take all possible steps including the possibility of provisional measures, should the relevant conditions be met.

"Investigations are also ongoing in relation to other FIFA officials who may have been involved in the issue in question."

The Sunday Times newspaper said that the offers had been made to its reporters who were working undercover.

It said that Nigeria'a Amos Adamu was filmed asking for money for a personal project and that Oceania Football Confederation president Reynald Temarii from Tahiti wanted money for a sports academy.

FIFA is due to announce on Dec. 2 in Zurich which countries will host the 2018 and 2022 World Cups with the 24-strong executive committee deciding both venues on a majority vote.

England and Russia are bidding for the 2018 finals along with joint bids from Spain/Portugal and Belgium/Netherlands.

The candidates for 2022 are the United States, Japan, South Korea, Qatar and Australia.

Source: Published>

Players awaiting match fees; Butt busy with foreign trips

Mon, Oct 18 10 11:56 PM

Karachi, Oct 18 (PTI) The foreign trips undertaken by the PCB chairman Ijaz Butt have led to a delay in the disbursement of match fees and other payments to the national team members. "Butt''s absence due to foreign trips is the primary reason behind finance department not been able to disburse the match fees and other payments to the players who went to England," a source in the board said. "The documents are not complete and cheques are lying unsigned. There was no issue in making the payments as soon as Butt was available to sign them," he said. The payments to the players include special win bonuses announced by the Board, half of which the cricketers have committed to donate to the Prime Minister''s flood relief fund. The source also added the PCB chief had directed the concerned officials that no match fees and other bonuses should be paid to the suspended trio of Test captain Salman Butt and pace bowlers, Mohammad Aamir and Mohammad Asif, currently serving a provisional suspension from the ICC for their alleged involvement in spot-fixing. "Butt has made it clear that these three players would get nothing until their appeals are heard by the ICC and they are cleared of all charges even by Scotland Yard," he said. PTI Corr SHN

Source: Published>

Mohd Yousuf suffers hamstring injury before SA series

Mon, Oct 18 10 11:50 PM

Karachi, Oct 18 (PTI) Pakistan former captain and senior batsman Muhammad Yousuf has suffered a hamstring strain just five days before the national team leaves for Abu Dhabi to play against South Africa. Pakistan coach Waqar Younis said that Yousuf had strained his hamstring and had been advised three days rest from the training camp currently underway in Lahore. "He should be okay in three days time but for the moment he has been told to rest," Waqar said. Yousuf surprisingly not only captained Lahore Lions to the national T20 championship title on Saturday but was also declared best fielder of the tournament. Waqar said that rest of the players were fine and training hard in the camp. "Our priority in the camp is to focus on improving our fielding which has not been up to required standards in recent series," Waqar said. The former skipper said that he was disappointed by Pakistan''s catching and overall fielding in the recent series in England. "The catching really let us down and what is disappointing for me is that I saw the same poor fielding standards with a few exceptions here and there in the national T20 championship," he said. "To beat a top well drilled outfit like South Africa the fielding and catching has to be 100 per cent," he added. Waqar said fielding could only improve in the national team when lot of attention and detail was paid to it in domestic cricket. "Unfortunately in domestic cricket fielding is not given the priority it deserves," he added. Pakistan manager Intikhab Alam said that since Pakistan would be playing a "home" series against South Africa in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, the pitches for the matches specially for the Tests were being prepared under the guidance of the PCB curators. "Our curators are giving guidelines for the preparation of pitches but the work is being done by the local curators," he added. He didn''t elaborate on whether Pakistan aimed to prepare a spin trap for South Africa in the Tests and even ODIs as they had included three specialist spinners in their Test squad including Danish Kaneria, Abdul Rehman and Saeed Ajmal. PTI Cor ATK

Source: Published>

''Star Academy'' wins Ack Ack Regiment Plate

Mon, Oct 18 10 10:22 PM

Chennai, Oct 18 (PTI) Star Academy ridden by G Manikandan, won the Ack Ack Regiment Plate, the prime event of the races here today. The winner is owned by S A Kumar. Three favourites obliged in a card of six events. PTI CORR APR

Source: Published>

PCB introduces new code of conduct for Pak players

Mon, Oct 18 10 10:16 PM

Karachi, Oct 18 (PTI) The Pakistan Cricket Board today introduced a new code of conduct for its international and domestic players in line with the recommendations made by the ICC for creating awareness among cricketers about anti-corruption laws. Pakistan''s new team manager Intikhab Alam said the code of conduct would be effective immediately and all players selected for the series against South Africa must sign it unconditionally before leaving for UAE. "Anyone who does not sign it will be dropped from the team," Intikhab said. The former Test captain said the new code of conduct had been revised keeping in mind the suggestions made by the ICC with lot of stress on creating awareness among players about anti-corruption laws. "We don''t want a repeat of what happened in England. The idea of the new code is to make the players aware of their responsibilities with reference particularly to the anti-corruption laws of the ICC," Intikhab said. He said the board had given him increased powers to deal with indiscipline and misconduct. The ICC after its executive board meeting in Dubai last week gave Pakistan 30 days time to implement some recommendations and improve its governance with specific stress on the anti-corruption laws in the country. Intikhab said he had held a meeting with the players and told them about the revised code and also on how to deal with suspicious person. "I told them about the enhanced anti-corruption clauses in the new code." Test captain, Salman Butt and pace bowlers, Mohammad Amir and Mohammad Asif were suspended by the ICC under its anti-corruption laws in September after being accused of taking bribes to do spot fixing in the fourth Test against England at the Lord''s in last week of August. The allegations were levelled by the ''News of the World'' tabloid. The trio will attend an appeal hearing in Doha on October 30-31, where their plea against the suspension would be heard by an independent ICC tribunal. Intikhab said that with new code in place, no indiscipline would be tolerated by anyone. "My job is to ensure the players focus on their cricket and that is all. The PCB wants no controversies or scandals concerning the team," he said. Intikhab also made it clear that no player would be made available for media interviews and even the captain and coach had been told strictly to just speak on pure cricket matters and avoid controversial remarks in the media. He said the new code also dealt with domestic cricket and making players strictly follow anti-corruption laws of the ICC. Pakistan will play two T20 matches, five one-dayers and two Tests against South Africa from October 26 as a ''home'' series hosted by the UAE.

Source: Published>

No question of revoking the expulsion decision of RR: Manohar

Mon, Oct 18 10 10:07 PM

Kushan Sarkar New Delhi, Oct 18 (PTI) BCCI president Shashank Manohar today dismissed speculations that former IPL team Rajasthan Royals will get a lifeline from the parent body after the owners wrote a letter to BCCI demanding a second chance. The champions of the first edition of IPL, were expelled from the cash-rich league last Sunday on grounds on various irregularities along with another high profile franchise Kings XI Punjab. "They may have written a letter but where does the question of revoking the decision come up?" BCCI president Manohar told PTI when contacted at his Nagpur residence. Manohar further added, "We have taken a final decision. That remains and no further decisions will be taken in this regard." Last Sunday after the IPL governing council meeting Manohar had told reporters that there were violations in agreement and breach of contract on the part of the franchise that has led to the expulsion. Their were discrepancies regarding the shareholding pattern and ownership transfers which the board claimed were not sorted out.

Source: Published>

Only an Asian Games gold will erase CWG memories: Vijender

Published>Mon, Oct 18 10 09:56 PM

New Delhi, Oct 18 (IANS) Beijing Olympic bronze medallist Vijender Singh Monday vowed to make up for his semi-final loss at the Commonwealth Games with a gold medal at the upcoming Asian Games at Guangzhou, China from Nov 12.

Vijender, a hot favourite to win gold at the Commonwealth Games, had to be content with a bronze after he lost to England's Anthony Ogogo in a close 75kg bout that was going the Indian's way till he was penalised just 30 seconds before the finish. Vijender's protest against the referee's decision fell on deaf ears.

'Since the Commonwealth Games ended, I am only getting to hear about my semi-final loss in Delhi. I am disappointed and I will try to make up for it with a gold at the Asian Games,' said Vijender on the sidelines of a felicitation ceremony of the Commonwealth Games medal winners.

Indian boxers won three gold and four bronze medals at the Games and were upbeat about the performance at the Asian Games.

They, however, said the competition in China will be a lot stiffer since world-class boxers from Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan will be in the hunt for medals.

Suranjoy, riding high on the Commonwealth Games success, is unperturbed by the presence of stronger opponents in China.

'Our opponents will be tougher to beat, but we are no pushovers. We will give them a fight and aim for the gold. We have received good training in the last two years and there is no reason why we cannot replicate the Delhi success there,' said Asian champion Suranjoy, who won gold at the Commonwealth Games in the 52kg category.

Another boxer Dilbag Singh, who won bronze in the 69 kg, said he has beaten the Asian boxers before and is confident to do well at Guangzhou.

'We don't fear anyone. I have defeated boxers from China and Uzbekistan in the past. We will take a week's rest and start training again,' said Dilbag.

Chief coach G.S. Sandhu said the boys are basking in the glory of the Delhi Games and it is too early to predict what will happen next month.

'I haven't got the time to sit back and assess our medal chances at the Asian Games. The whole squad needs rest. The challenge no doubt will be tougher than here,' said Sandhu.

Paramjeet Samota (+91 kg) and Manoj Kumar (64) are the other two gold medallists while Amandeep Singh (49kg) and Jai Bhagwan (60) are the two bronze winners apart from Vijender and Dilbag.

The boxers were Monday awarded cash prize of Rs.3 lakh each for gold medal, and Rs.1 lakh for bronze by Monnet Group, an energy and power firm. The company also signed a contract of $1 million with the boxing federation to become a team and kit sponsor for the next three years.

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PCB introduces new code of conduct for Pak players

Mon, Oct 18 10 09:36 PM

Karachi, Oct 18 (PTI) The Pakistan Cricket Board today introduced a new code of conduct for its international and domestic players in line with the recommendations made by the ICC for creating awareness among cricketers about anti-corruption laws. Pakistan''s new team manager Intikhab Alam said the code of conduct would be effective immediately and all players selected for the series against South Africa must sign it unconditionally before leaving for UAE. "Anyone who does not sign it will be dropped from the team," Intikhab said. The former Test captain said the new code of conduct had been revised keeping in mind the suggestions made by the ICC with lot of stress on creating awareness among players about anti-corruption laws. "We don''t want a repeat of what happened in England. The idea of the new code is to make the players aware of their responsibilities with reference particularly to the anti-corruption laws of the ICC," Intikhab said. He said the board had given him increased powers to deal with indiscipline and misconduct. The ICC after its executive board meeting in Dubai last week gave Pakistan 30 days time to implement some recommendations and improve its governance with specific stress on the anti-corruption laws in the country. Intikhab said he had held a meeting with the players and told them about the revised code and also on how to deal with suspicious person. "I told them about the enhanced anti-corruption clauses in the new code." Test captain, Salman Butt and pace bowlers, Mohammad Amir and Mohammad Asif were suspended by the ICC under its anti-corruption laws in September after being accused of taking bribes to do spot fixing in the fourth Test against England at the Lord''s in last week of August. The allegations were levelled by the ''News of the World'' tabloid. The trio will attend an appeal hearing in Doha on October 30-31, where their plea against the suspension would be heard by an independent ICC tribunal. Intikhab said that with new code in place, no indiscipline would be tolerated by anyone. "My job is to ensure the players focus on their cricket and that is all. The PCB wants no controversies or scandals concerning the team," he said. Intikhab also made it clear that no player would be made available for media interviews and even the captain and coach had been told strictly to just speak on pure cricket matters and avoid controversial remarks in the media. He said the new code also dealt with domestic cricket and making players strictly follow anti-corruption laws of the ICC. Pakistan will play two T20 matches, five one-dayers and two Tests against South Africa from October 26 as a ''home'' series hosted by the UAE.

Source: Published>

Commonwealth Games organising committee tenure extended

Published>Mon, Oct 18 10 09:22 PM

New Delhi, Oct.18 (ANI): Government of India has decided to extend the tenure of the Organising Committee of the Commonwealth Games .

The move came in the wake of the setting up of a high-level committee to look into the matters relating to organising and conduct of the mega event.

Talking to reporters after presiding over Group of Ministers' meeting on Commonwealth Games in the capital today, Urban Development Minister S Jaipal Reddy said that senior officials made available to the Organising Committee by the Centre, would be allowed to continue till further orders.

On the issue of winding up the CWG's organising committee, Reddy said, it was for the Sports Ministry to decide on it.

Today, meet of the Group of Ministers was attended by Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit and CWG Organising Committee Chairman Suresh Kalmadi, besides Sports Minister M S Gill.

Asked if corruption allegations came up during today's meeting , Reddy said the GoM did not discuss allegations of corruption.

Reddy, however, welcomed the decision on the setting up of a probe panel by the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh and informed that the Group of Ministers expressed satisfaction over the successful conduct of the Commonwealth Games.

The Group of Ministers was expected to look into the allegations of corruption and mismanagement in the lead-up to the commonwealth games .

The Ministers group was expected to look into aspects of the games organisation, like work allocated to different government agencies including the Delhi Development Authority, and where they failed.

Meanwhile, Bharatiya Janata Party today demanded probe by a Joint Parliamentary Committee probe about reports of corruption in Commonwealth Games projects.

"The spat between Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit and CWG Organising Committee Chief Suresh Kalmadi that has come out in the open only reinforces the public opinion that the main aim of the organisers was to grab money," said BJP spokesperson Tarun Vijay here today. (ANI)

Source: Web Search

Fun and Games over: OC to stay put, CAG to report in 90 days

Published>Mon, Oct 18 10 09:17 PM

Now that the last sportsperson has left Delhi after a good Commonwealth Games, the searchlight is firmly on the allegations of corruption that ran the last lap to the event.

The Group of Ministers on the CWG, in an unprecedented move, decided not to wind up the CWG Organising Committee and has extended its tenure indefinitely to facilitate the probe.

On the other hand, the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) on Monday said it will complete within three months a "comprehensive" audit of the projects.

The report will be confidential and submitted only to the Parliament, CAG Vinod Rai said.

"We will complete the entire audit process of CWG in three months. It is going to be a gigantic task. At least 20 different organisations will be involved," he said addressing auditors that included some from abroad.

"If we take six to eight months time and submit the report in 2012, then the entire purpose of exercise would be lost. We will ensure that results of the audit are made available at the earliest. It is not only about the expenditures incurred," he said.

The CAG said while auditing they would have to see whether the original activity or the objective has been fulfilled.

He said it would be a comprehensive audit which would cover all institutions involved in the Games. "Ours will be a report which will be shared only with the Parliament," he said while addressing the 97th international training programme on auditing in an IT environment.

The CAG is vetting the expenditures incurred in different Commonwealth Games related projects.

The audit by the CAG teams began in the middle of August. However, it was halted between September 24 and October 14 in view of the Games.

Meanwhile, the Group of Ministers on CWG met for the first time on Monday when it decided to extend the tenure of the Organising Committee till further orders.

"Senior officials made available to the Organising Committee by the government of India will be allowed to continue till further orders," Urban Development Minister S Jaipal Reddy told reporters after the meeting of the Group of Ministers on the CWG.

The Sports Ministry will decide when to wind up the Organising Committee.

The GoM was attended by Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit and CWG Organising Committee Chairman Suresh Kalmadi, who are locked in a war of words over the corruption in the Games, besides Sports Minister M S Gill.

Replying to a volley of questions, Reddy insisted the GoM did not discuss allegations of corruption.

"In our system we have our own agencies which will leisurely do their job diligently... The Prime Minister has taken the right decision (by setting up a probe panel)," he said.

He said the GoM expressed satisfaction over the successful conduct of the CWG and thanked the people of India as well as the people of Delhi for the "wholehearted support and contribution" in making the event a success.

Reddy, however, chose not to be driven into the controversy over Dikshit and Kalmadi attacking each other over allegations of corruption. "I don't have any right to advise any member," he said.

While Dikshit remarked that the "suspicion" of corruption was on the Games Organising Committee (OC), Kalmadi hit back at her statement saying it was "most disappointing and uncalled for" and that she must indulge in self-reflection on corruption in her own departments.

Source: Web Search

Wahab, Shahzaib included in ODI and T20 squad against SA

Mon, Oct 18 10 08:52 PM

Karachi, Oct 18 (PTI) The Pakistani selectors today named young opener Shahzaib Hasan and pace bowler Wahab Riaz in the squad for the Twenty20 and one-day series against South Africa starting October 26. The inclusions come after the pair''s outstanding performance in last week''s domestic Twenty20 competition. The selectors had earlier ignored both the players while announcing a 15-member side for the forthcoming series against the Proteas in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. But the PCB today came out with a press release which stated both Shahzaib and Wahab have been included in the final squad for the tour. Shahzaib and Wahab were declared the best batsman and best bowler in the national Twenty20 championship that concluded on Saturday in Lahore. The selectors and board had faced lot of criticism for announcing the limited overs and Test squads for the series against South Africa before the holding of the national T20 event. The critics included former Test captains and greats, Javed Miandad, Wasim Akram and Aamir Sohail who said they couldn''t understand the PCB selection policy at all. Sources said that the decision to include the two youngsters in the squad came after Miandad, who is director general in the cricket board, met with PCB Chairman Ijaz Butt in Lahore. "It is Miandad who convinced Butt that the two players deserve a chance in the touring squad after their fine show in the national T20 event," a source said. Shahzaib hit a hundred in one of the national championship matches for Karachi while Wahab took 3 for 14 in a high scoring final won by Lahore. Pakistan T20 and ODI squad: Shahid Afridi (capt), Imran Farhat, Mohammad Hafeez, Misbah-ul-Haq, Umar Akmal, Asaf Shafiq, Fawad Alam, Abdul Razzaq, Umar Gul, Saeed Ajmal, Abdul Rehman, Shoaib Akhtar, Tanveer Ahmed, Zulqarnain Haider, Shahzaib Hasan and Wahab Riaz.

Source: Published>

Shoaib Malik to lead Pakistan in Hong Kong

Published>Mon, Oct 18 10 08:46 PM

Karachi, Oct 18 (IANS) Pakistan's discarded all-rounder Shoaib Malik was Monday given a chance to prove his form when he was picked to lead the country in next month's Hong Kong Sixes Tournament.

Malik, a former Pakistan captain, was dropped from the national team midway during the tour of England last August. He was also overlooked for the upcoming 'home' series against South Africa in the United Arab Emirates.

However, it seems that the national selectors want to see his form and fitness before naming the team for the tour of New Zealand which will be Pakistan's last international assignment before next year's World Cup to be played in India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.

Also in the team is discarded opener Imran Nazir.

The 2010 Hong Kong Sixes event will be played at Kowloon Cricket Club from Nov 6.

Pakistan squad: Ahmed Shahzad, Imran Nazir, Shoaib Malik (captain), Shabbir Ahmad, Shoaib Khan, Sohail Khan, Asad Ali.

Source: Web Search

CAG to submit its report within three months

Published>Mon, Oct 18 10 08:22 PM

New Delhi, Oct.18 (ANI): As the Central Vigilance Commissioner widened the ambit of its probe into the alleged financial and administrative irregularities related to the Commonwealth Games, the Comptroller Auditor General has said it would submit its audit report to the government in three months.

Comptroller and Auditor General Vinod Rai has said that delay in the probe will erode its credibility.

Rai asserted that the audit will cover all aspects and all institutions involved in the delivery of the games.

Stating that the CAG said that the government auditors will probe 24 departments, 15 of them belong to Delhi government and four to the organising committee, Rai said, about 100 CAG staffers are involved in the probe which are looking into the working and purchase of agencies related to CWG.

In a related move, the central vigilance commission has brought purchase of medical equipment and selection of tainted project officers for the sporting event under its scanner.

The CVC is probing at least 22 more Games-related construction and procurement works carried out by different government agencies here for alleged financial irregularities.

Six of these projects, were carried out by Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, four by Delhi Development Authority, three by Organising Committee and two each by Municipal Corporation of Delhi, Central Public Works Department, Government of Delhi.

A senior CVC official said that based on their replies, the CVC will give its findings or final report to a committee formed by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh headed by former Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) V K Shunglu.

Meanwhile, Delhi Government has asked all its departments to keep relevant documents ready and fully cooperate with investigators.

Chief Minister Shiela Dikshit, who chaired a high-level meeting, said records of all expenditure incurred as part of the preparations will be ready so that they can be made available to any probe agency wanting to scrutinise them. (ANI)

Source: Web Search

Northeast sportspersons shine at Commonwealth Games

Published>Mon, Oct 18 10 07:17 PM

New Delhi, Oct. 17 (ANI): As Indian sportspersons gave their best ever performance by occupying second place in the overall all medal tally of the Commonwealth Games held recently, the sportspersons from the north eastern States played a significant role in bringing glory to the country.

Suranjoy Singh in boxing, Somdev Devvarman in Tennis, Beigyabati Chanu in Archery and Monica Devi in weightlifting... the list of sportspersons doing their respective States proud is certainly a long one...

All these sportspersons are delighted on being able to add to the glory of the country.

Sandhya Rani, Bronze medallist in the 48 kilogram weightlifting category, said, "It was interesting and an exciting experience to meet and interact with sportspersons from around the world during CWG."

Renubala Chanu, Gold medallist in the 58 kg weightlifting category, said, "I want to encourage the upcoming weightlifters in the Northeast so that they can work hard and bring laurels to the country."

Monica, Bronze medallist in the 75 kg weightlifting category, said, "Sports infrastructure in Northeast is not up to the mark. But we have a pool of talent. If infrastructure is provided and encouragement is given, we can tap the potential."

Khumallambam Bheigyabati Chanu from Manipur bagged the Bronze medal in the women's compound archery. Her proud coach Harinder Singh said the northeast has great sporting talent that needs to be tapped.

"Sportspersons from the northeast have great stamina. They quickly adapt and need no extra training. They have great endurance, which makes them stand out amongst other sportspersons from the country," he said.

Kh. Bheigyabati chanu, a Bronze medallist in the Women's Compound Archery said, " Athletes from the northeast have managed to get a good number of medals in the Commonwealth Games. We are proud of ourselves."

Twenty five-year-old Somdev Devvarman from Tripura won Gold Medal in Men's tennis singles defeating Australia's Greg Jones 6-4, 6-2.

"I am very happy. I don't think I didn't drop a set all this whole week and I looked pretty confident and felt very good. I'm pretty glad that all actually turned out well. It's a dream come true for me to win a gold medal for India in any games possible," he said.

Somdev's father Pravanjan Devvarman said, "He was in the top seat. People expected him to get through and fortunately he did. It is a happy experience. I hope everyone shares it too."

Moreover, during the opening and closing ceremonies of the Commonwealth Games, the artistes from the north east region of the country captivated attention due to their performances in the spectacular ceremonies.

During the closing ceremony, an electrifying performance "Agni" was presented by martial art artistes from across India. It included performances like 'machetes' by Naga warriors and 'Thang-Ta' by Manipuri martial artists.

The 19th Commonwealth Games have left behind some wonderful moments in India's sporting history. By Karam Roniya (ANI)

Source: Web Search

BJP for JPC to probe corruption in CGW games projects

Mon, Oct 18 10 07:08 PM

New Delhi, Oct 18 (PTI) BJP today demanded setting up of a Joint Parliamentary Committee to probe into reports of corruption in Commonwealth Games projects. "The spat between Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit and CWG Organising Committee Chief Suresh Kalmadi that has come out in the open only reinforces the public opinion that the main aim of the organisers was ''Looto, Khao, Utho aur Jao'' (loot, consume, get up and go)," BJP spokesperson Tarun Vijay said. The Rajya Sabha member maintained that by publicly accusing Kalmadi of corruption in CWG 2010 projects, Dikshit may be attempting to avoid any allegations against herself and the Delhi government. "The whole murky show should be thoroughly investigated. Dikshit''s role should also be investigated. Any effort at being holier than thou and finding scapegoats to save oneself will be a big mistake. We would not accept that. All are equally responsible," Vijay said. BJP has demanded that the role of the Central government, Urban Development ministry, Sports Ministry, CWG Organising Committee, Delhi government, MCD and NDMC should be probed in cases of alleged corruption. "The politics of finding scapegoats should be avoided in the interest of the country. A Joint Parliamentary Committee can investigate the matter and submit a report," Vijay said. Asked if BJP wanted a JPC probe when a high-level committee under former CAG V K Shunglu constituted by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh was already investigating the matter, he said its terms of reference and appointment of its other members had not yet been done.

Source: Published>

Northeast sportspersons shine at Commonwealth Games

Published>Mon, Oct 18 10 06:37 PM

New Delhi, Oct. 17 (ANI): As Indian sportspersons gave their best ever performance by occupying second place in the overall all medal tally of the Commonwealth Games held recently, the sportspersons from the north eastern States played a significant role in bringing glory to the country.

Suranjoy Singh in boxing, Somdev Devvarman in Tennis, Beigyabati Chanu in Archery and Monica Devi in weightlifting... the list of sportspersons doing their respective States proud is certainly a long one...

All these sportspersons are delighted on being able to add to the glory of the country.

Sandhya Rani, Bronze medallist in the 48 kilogram weightlifting category, said, "It was interesting and an exciting experience to meet and interact with sportspersons from around the world during CWG."

Renubala Chanu, Gold medallist in the 58 kg weightlifting category, said, "I want to encourage the upcoming weightlifters in the Northeast so that they can work hard and bring laurels to the country."

Monica, Bronze medallist in the 75 kg weightlifting category, said, "Sports infrastructure in Northeast is not up to the mark. But we have a pool of talent. If infrastructure is provided and encouragement is given, we can tap the potential."

Khumallambam Bheigyabati Chanu from Manipur bagged the Bronze medal in the women's compound archery. Her proud coach Harinder Singh said the northeast has great sporting talent that needs to be tapped.

"Sportspersons from the northeast have great stamina. They quickly adapt and need no extra training. They have great endurance, which makes them stand out amongst other sportspersons from the country," he said.

Kh. Bheigyabati chanu, a Bronze medallist in the Women's Compound Archery said, " Athletes from the northeast have managed to get a good number of medals in the Commonwealth Games. We are proud of ourselves."

Twenty five-year-old Somdev Devvarman from Tripura won Gold Medal in Men's tennis singles defeating Australia's Greg Jones 6-4, 6-2.

"I am very happy. I don't think I didn't drop a set all this whole week and I looked pretty confident and felt very good. I'm pretty glad that all actually turned out well. It's a dream come true for me to win a gold medal for India in any games possible," he said.

Somdev's father Pravanjan Devvarman said, "He was in the top seat. People expected him to get through and fortunately he did. It is a happy experience. I hope everyone shares it too."

Moreover, during the opening and closing ceremonies of the Commonwealth Games, the artistes from the north east region of the country captivated attention due to their performances in the spectacular ceremonies.

During the closing ceremony, an electrifying performance "Agni" was presented by martial art artistes from across India. It included performances like 'machetes' by Naga warriors and 'Thang-Ta' by Manipuri martial artists.

The 19th Commonwealth Games have left behind some wonderful moments in India's sporting history. By Karam Roniya (ANI)

Source: Web Search

Wrestler Sushil shooter Deepak felicitated

Mon, Oct 18 10 06:26 PM

New Delhi, Oct 18 (PTI) Commonwealth Games gold medallist wrestler Sushil Kumar and silver medal winning shooter Deepak Sharma were felicitated by the Ministry of Steel here at Udyog Bhavan today. Wrestler Yogeshwar Dutt, who was supposed felicitated couldn''t make it to the function due to poor health. After felicitating the sportsmen, Union Steel Minister Virbhadra Singh congratulated them on their excellent performance during the Games and also announced cash rewards of Rs 5 lakh each for the two gold medallists and Rs 3 lakh for Deepak Sharma. Meanwhile, Sushil Kumar''s coach Yashvir Singh, who became the first Indian to win the International Wrestling Federation''s ''Coach of the Year'' award recently, was also feliciatated on the occasion. Speaking during the function, Virbhadra Singh said, "It is matter of great satisfaction that these young sportsmen realised their aspiration of bringing honour and glory to India at the Games." Steel Authority of India Ltd (SAIL) Chairman C S Verma was also present at the function as the company provides financial support to all these three sportspersons for their training and other requirements. Yogeshwar Dutt, who had won gold medals in the 2003 and 2005 Commonwealth Wrestling held in Canada and South Africa, respectively, overcame a career-threatening knee injury last year to win a gold in the Delhi Games. The wrestler, who also received the Arjuna Award in 2008-09, is now keen to win a gold at the forthcoming Asian Games. However, superstar of Indian wrestling Sushil re-confirmed that he would not be able to make it to the Asian Games in China next month because of shoulder and neck injuries. "I need time to recover from my injuries," admitted Sushil, adding, "The report is going to come in a couple of days and accordingly the doctor will give me instructions when can I be back in action." Marksman Sharma, who has won two bronze and a silver medal in major international competitions and 31 medals, including three gold, in national level shooting championships, said he was looking forward to the Asian Games but need to work on a few technical aspects. "I need to work on some technicalities before the Asian Games. Once the camp starts, I would like to improve on a few technical points," said Deepak.

Source: Published>

Butt should not seek second term: Akram

Published>Mon, Oct 18 10 06:22 PM

Describing Ejaz Butt's two years at the helm of Pakistan Cricket Board a complete failure, former captain Wasim Akram has ridiculed the PCB chief for seeking another tenure.

"If Ejaz Butt has asked for another term then hats off to him (pun intended). The whole of Pakistan and world cricket is after him. Pakistan cricket is in a mess, there is no leadership and amidst all this, to ask for another term, well what can I say. This shows that his advisors are not giving him the right directions," Akram said.

"Butt has been unable to hold forte. He is not a man in command. Pakistan cricket is in doldrums. There is no leadership and it was the chairman's role to keep all these things under check. He has failed," Akram told Mobile ESPN.

Butt's current tenure, which ends on October 31, has been marred by a series of controversies. The infamous terrorist attack on the Sri Lankan team bus in Lahore happened during his tenure.

Then came the spot-fixing scandal that rocked world cricket and he was roundly criticised for his off-the-cuff remarks that England players threw matches.

Akram was also critical of the selection panel for not consulting coach Waqar Younis while picking the team for the forthcoming series against South Africa in the UAE.

"I strongly believe that the presence of the captain and coach is a must in the process of team selection. It's fine that it is a selectors' job, but again it is a team game. If you keep fighting amongst yourselves then where is the leadership? The ball once again falls in Butt's court. He should take care of all these things," said the former captain.

Akram said only the players can lift Pakistan cricket by performing well against South Africa in the upcoming series which will have two Twenty20 Internationals, five ODIs and two Tests.

"Pakistan can beat anybody in Twenty20, but the one-dayers and Tests will be a different ball game. Even if Pakistan wins a match or two South Africa can always come back, they are always a difficult side. Wherever the Proteas play, they are a tough side to beat. Pakistan will give them competition, but I believe the series will be a close affair," said Akram.

Source: Web Search

Wrestler Sushil shooter Deepak felicitated

Mon, Oct 18 10 05:52 PM

New Delhi, Oct 18 (PTI) Commonwealth Games gold medallist wrestler Sushil Kumar and silver medal winning shooter Deepak Sharma were felicitated by the Ministry of Steel here at Udyog Bhavan today. Wrestler Yogeshwar Dutt, who was supposed felicitated couldn''t make it to the function due to poor health. After felicitating the sportsmen, Union Steel Minister Virbhadra Singh congratulated them on their excellent performance during the Games and also announced cash rewards of Rs 5 lakh each for the two gold medallists and Rs 3 lakh for Deepak Sharma. Meanwhile, Sushil Kumar''s coach Yashvir Singh, who became the first Indian to win the International Wrestling Federation''s ''Coach of the Year'' award recently, was also feliciatated on the occasion. Speaking during the function, Virbhadra Singh said, "It is matter of great satisfaction that these young sportsmen realised their aspiration of bringing honour and glory to India at the Games." Steel Authority of India Ltd (SAIL) Chairman C S Verma was also present at the function as the company provides financial support to all these three sportspersons for their training and other requirements. Yogeshwar Dutt, who had won gold medals in the 2003 and 2005 Commonwealth Wrestling held in Canada and South Africa, respectively, overcame a career-threatening knee injury last year to win a gold in the Delhi Games. The wrestler, who also received the Arjuna Award in 2008-09, is now keen to win a gold at the forthcoming Asian Games. However, superstar of Indian wrestling Sushil re-confirmed that he would not be able to make it to the Asian Games in China next month because of shoulder and neck injuries. "I need time to recover from my injuries," admitted Sushil, adding, "The report is going to come in a couple of days and accordingly the doctor will give me instructions when can I be back in action." Marksman Sharma, who has won two bronze and a silver medal in major international competitions and 31 medals, including three gold, in national level shooting championships, said he was looking forward to the Asian Games but need to work on a few technical aspects. "I need to work on some technicalities before the Asian Games. Once the camp starts, I would like to improve on a few technical points," said Deepak.

Source: Published>

Butt should not seek second term: Akram

Published>Mon, Oct 18 10 05:37 PM

Describing Ejaz Butt's two years at the helm of Pakistan Cricket Board a complete failure, former captain Wasim Akram has ridiculed the PCB chief for seeking another tenure.

"If Ejaz Butt has asked for another term then hats off to him (pun intended). The whole of Pakistan and world cricket is after him. Pakistan cricket is in a mess, there is no leadership and amidst all this, to ask for another term, well what can I say. This shows that his advisors are not giving him the right directions," Akram said.

"Butt has been unable to hold forte. He is not a man in command. Pakistan cricket is in doldrums. There is no leadership and it was the chairman's role to keep all these things under check. He has failed," Akram told Mobile ESPN.

Butt's current tenure, which ends on October 31, has been marred by a series of controversies. The infamous terrorist attack on the Sri Lankan team bus in Lahore happened during his tenure.

Then came the spot-fixing scandal that rocked world cricket and he was roundly criticised for his off-the-cuff remarks that England players threw matches.

Akram was also critical of the selection panel for not consulting coach Waqar Younis while picking the team for the forthcoming series against South Africa in the UAE.

"I strongly believe that the presence of the captain and coach is a must in the process of team selection. It's fine that it is a selectors' job, but again it is a team game. If you keep fighting amongst yourselves then where is the leadership? The ball once again falls in Butt's court. He should take care of all these things," said the former captain.

Akram said only the players can lift Pakistan cricket by performing well against South Africa in the upcoming series which will have two Twenty20 Internationals, five ODIs and two Tests.

"Pakistan can beat anybody in Twenty20, but the one-dayers and Tests will be a different ball game. Even if Pakistan wins a match or two South Africa can always come back, they are always a difficult side. Wherever the Proteas play, they are a tough side to beat. Pakistan will give them competition, but I believe the series will be a close affair," said Akram.

Source: Web Search

Delhi to decide on return of Blueline buses after Oct 25

Published>Mon, Oct 18 10 05:17 PM

New Delhi, Oct 18 (IANS) The Delhi government Monday said it will take a decision after Oct 25 on whether to bring around 1,600 Blueline buses back on the city's roads, and maintained it was committed to phase out these privately owned public transport vehicles.

The Bluelines were taken off to decongest some of the roads ahead of the Oct 3-14 Commonwealth Games.

Transport Minister Arvinder Singh Lovely told reporters: 'The nearly 1,600 Blueline buses which were asked to go off the roads on the Games routes and New Delhi areas, will remain so till Oct 25. Any decision on them will be taken only after that.'

He also stressed that the government was fully committed to phase the Blueline buses as the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) now has enough buses to ferry the capital's commuters.

He said the red and green DTC buses that were used to carry athletes and officials during the Commonwealth Games would roll out Tuesday, and with these the DTC would have a fleet of 6,400 buses.

'As many as 200-250 red buses are in the pipeline and will join the DTC fleet soon,' he added.

A transport department official said the Delhi government will also file an affidavit to apprise the Delhi High Court about the ongoing case on phasing out of the Blueline buses.

The Delhi government had earlier planned to phase out all the Blueline buses before the Commonwealth Games. The Blueline bus operators had approached the high court, where the matter is pending.

The city has a total of 2,800 Blueline buses.

Source: Web Search

Unrequited passion for playing cricket encouraged me to take up umpiring: Aleem Dar

Published>Mon, Oct 18 10 05:07 PM

Karachi, Oct 18(ANI): Umpire Aleem Dar has said that his fierce desire to play for the Pakistan team not being fulfilled was the reason behind his decision to take up umpiring.

"I realized that perhaps it was too late to catch that train, but to break the romance with my passion for this game was not possible, so I made a life-changing decision," PakPassion.net quoted Dar, as saying.

"Instead of occupying the crease as a player, I contented myself with staying on the turf as an umpire," he added.

The 42-year-old said that he had to face a severe uphill battle to realize his dream, as umpiring is hardly the most established profession in Pakistan.

"Initially I started supervising cricket matches in local club tournaments, but there was hardly enough money to make it into a career to earn bread and butter for the family, so for a short interval, I thought of scrapping the whole idea," Dar said.

"However, powered by the motivation of my beloved wife and consistent pursuance of my respected friend Azhar Zaidi, I reverted back on my decision," he added.

Dar further cited legendary umpire Steve Bucknor as a source of inspiration, guidance and companionship.

"Steve Bucknor is my favorite international umpire and my role model in the umpiring profession. He was closely associated with me in the initial part of my international career, and lent me maximum support as a senior in the trade, and guided me in carrying out my assignments," he said. (ANI)

Source: Web Search

Cameroon coach Clemente criticised in technical report

Published>Mon, Oct 18 10 04:56 PM

Cameroon coach Javier Clemente will meet with the country's Football Federation President Iya Mohamed after receiving stinging criticism from the team's technical department.

The four-times African Nations Cup winners were fortunate to draw with the Democratic Republic of Congo earlier this month after coming from behind against the opposition who are ranked 95 places below them by world governing body FIFA

"It is clear the team is going through a managerial crisis," Jean-Paul Akono told reporters on behalf of the technical committee following a meeting.

"Immediately after the match ended he took a flight back to his home in Spain. We expected him to have held a working session the next morning with other technicians and the players to see what went wrong.

"I think he needs to take up residence here instead of only appearing and disappearing."

Following the assessment Mohamed said a meeting between the minister, FECAFOOT and the coach would occur in the coming days.

The 1-1 draw was the second game in charge for former Spain coach Clemente who took over from Frenchman Paul Le Guen after the World Cup.

Clemente blamed the weak showing in Garoua on hot climate, the scare of the cholera epidemic that has swept through northern Cameroon, and the absence of some key players.

Source: Web Search

Newcastle Utd striker Carroll charged with assault

Mon, Oct 18 10 04:38 PM

Newcastle United striker Andy Carroll has been charged with assaulting a teenage girl, police said on Monday.

The 21-year-old forward, who played in Newcastle's 2-2 draw with Wigan on Saturday, is due to appear in court later on Monday.

"Andrew Thomas Carroll, 21, Prestwick, Newcastle, has been charged with assault and is due to appear before Tynedale Magistrates," a spokesman for Northumbria Police said.

Officers were called shortly after 6 a.m. on Sunday to a house in Ponteland area of Northumberland after the assault was reported, the spokesman said. An 18-year-old girl at the scene was found to have suffered a minor head injury.

Carroll, who has scored four times in the Premier League this season and has been tipped to win a call-up to the England squad, recently signed a new five-year deal with Newcastle.

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Real Madrid preparing 50 million pound swoop for Rooney

Published>Mon, Oct 18 10 04:07 PM

London, Oct 18 (ANI): Real Madrid will use Karim Benzema as bait to get Wayne Rooney, as the Spanish club was preparing a 50 million pounds deal to bag the Manchester United striker.

Rooney has reportedly told bosses at Old Trafford that he wants to leave the club as soon as possible after a massive fall-out with manager Sir Alex Ferguson. He also said that he will not sign a new contract and would prefer them to let him leave when the transfer window reopens in January.

Real boss Jose Mourinho is desperate to get Rooney and knows United chief Alex Ferguson is a fan of French striker Benzema.

Mourinho will include the 22-year-old as part of a cash-plus-player swoop, The Sun reports.

Madrid managing director Jorge Valdano confirmed: "Our problem is who to get rid of if Wayne Rooney comes here. We have a brilliant strikeforce in Ronaldo and Higuain and now we have added Ozil and Di Maria to complement them."

When Madrid signed Benzema last year, Ferguson said that he was interested in the player but felt the 25 million pounds price tag was inflated.

Real president Florentino Perez is a confirmed admirer of Rooney, who turns 25 on Sunday.

A source said: "Signing Wayne has become an obsession for Florentino." (ANI)

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CWG medallists handed cash rewards by Tata Steel

Mon, Oct 18 10 03:52 PM

Jamshedpur, Oct 18 (PTI) Commonwealth Games medal winning archers of Tata Archery Academy (TAA) were today handed cash rewards for their achievements in the mega event at a reception here. Archers Deepika Kumar (two gold), Rahul Banerjee (one gold and one bronze) and Jayanta Talukdar (two bronze) were given a warm welcome on their return today with a large number of sportspersons and officials of TAA and Jharkhand Archery Association receiving them. The archers reached the steel city along with TAA coaches Purnima Mahto, also the coach of Indian women archery team at CWG, and Dharmendra Tiwari. Tata Steel vice-president (corporate services), Sanjiv Paul handed a cheque of Rs 10 lakh to Deepika Kumari, Rs 6 lakh to Rahul Banerjee and Rs 2 lakh to Jayanta Talukdar. Tata Steel also handed Mahto, Tiwari and Tata Athletic Academy coach Satnam Singh with a cheque of Rs 1 lakh each. PTI BS NIK PDS

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Dipika's pullout denied us a squash medal: Joshna

Published>Mon, Oct 18 10 03:26 PM

New Delhi, Oct 18 (IANS) India's top women's squash player Joshna Chinappa has attributed the country's failure to win a medal in the sport at the Commonwealth Games to the pullout of her doubles partner Dipika Pallikal owing to illness.

Joshna said India's medal prospects were in the doubles and mixed doubles, but Dipika's pullout forced late changes in the team combination.

Dipika and Joshna were to compete in the doubles, but withdrew their entry as Dipika could not recover from illness in time. In the mixed doubles event, India's highest- ranked men's player Saurav Ghoshal was paired with his regular partner Dipika, but at the last minute had to play with Joshna.

'There are no excuses that we lost and we are all sad. Our medal chances were never in the men's and women singles since the field had many top players. But we were more than confident of getting a medal in the doubles and mixed doubles,' Joshna told IANS.

Joshna lost to world no.1 Nicol David of Malaysia while Saurav could not get past third seed Englishman Peter Barker in the pre-quarterfinals of the singles. And later, the inexperienced pair crashed out in the quarterfinals of the mixed doubles.

The 24-year-old from Coorg said she was never comfortable playing alongside Saurav and that showed in the end result.

'The doubles or mixed event is all about co-ordination which was not evident when we two played. It is unfortunate that my partner Harinder Pal Sandhu had to sit out since the coaches decided that higher-ranked Saurav and I should play in the absence of Dipika,' said Joshna.

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Golf - World rankings

Mon, Oct 18 10 03:16 PM

REUTERS - World rankings on Monday (U.S. unless stated, last week's positions in brackets):

1. (1) Tiger Woods 8.50 average points

2. (2) Lee Westwood (Britain) 8.39

3. (3) Phil Mickelson 8.13

4. (4) Martin Kaymer (Germany) 8.12

5. (5) Steve Stricker 7.45

6. (6) Jim Furyk 7.29

7. (7) Paul Casey (Britain) 6.08

8. (8) Luke Donald (Britain) 5.70

9. (9) Rory McIlroy (Britain) 5.50

10. (11) Matt Kuchar 5.32

11. (10) Ernie Els (South Africa) 5.27

12. (12) Dustin Johnson 5.01

13. (13) Graeme McDowell (Britain) 4.82

14. (16) Hunter Mahan 4.68

15. (14) Edoardo Molinari (Italy) 4.67

16. (15) Ian Poulter (Britain) 4.57

17. (17) Retief Goosen (South Africa) 4.35

18. (18) Zach Johnson 4.11

19. (22) Padraig Harrington (Ireland) 4.05

20. (19) Louis Oosthuizen (South Africa) 4.03

Source: Published>

Greg Norman set to marry Oz designer after getting mum's approval

Published>Mon, Oct 18 10 02:56 PM

Melbourne, Oct 18 (ANI): Australian golfer Greg Norman's mother has given the seal of approval for his marriage to interior designer Kirsten Kutner.

Toini Norman said she was thrilled with the announcement her son would marry glamorous Kutner.

"We're very happy about it," the Daily Telegraph quoted the mother as saying.

"Yes it's very exciting. We've met her and she's a very nice girl," she added.

However, she didn't give away any details on whether the glamorous pair had set a wedding date.

"There's no news yet on when the wedding will be, none whatsoever," she said. (ANI)

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England football stars held marathon Xbox tournament before Montenegro draw

Published>Mon, Oct 18 10 02:47 PM

London, Oct 18(ANI): England's football stars had held an eight-hour Xbox tournament before last Tuesday's Euro 2012 qualifier 0-0 draw against Montenegro.

Although captain Rio Ferdinand and his team did not deliver on the pitch, they displayed some silky skills on Xbox, the Daily Star reports.

The tournament was set up by striker Darren Bent, who took on Ferdinand in the final and won 3-2 at the end of a gruelling session.

"Considering Darren has played an average 8hrs a day since we been ere I done not too bad!" Ferdinand tweeted after the match.

Ferdinand also hailed Manchester United star Wayne Rooney for his finishing skills in the tournament.

"Wazza is the man on FIFA so far, da kid just knows how to finish... its what I'm hearing anyway! We all on the same team later!!" another tweet said.

Xbox games are popular amongst footballers, but sports psychologists fear that overplaying can affect performance and lead to developing addictions. (ANI)

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Hauritz unlikely to get nod for first Ashes Test on bouncy Gabba pitch

Published>Mon, Oct 18 10 02:37 PM

Melbourne, Oct 18 (ANI): Australian selectors and skipper Ricky Ponting are likely to overlook off-spinner Nathan Hauritz for the first Ashes Test.

The Gabba, venue for the first Test against England, will have its traditional pace and bounce, and with Australian speedsters being the team's strength, Hauritz is unlikely to get the nod.

Ponting will have Marcus North to fall back on for spin, while Michael Clarke and Simon Katich can also bowl some slow stuff.

Hauritz is likely to be carrying the drinks unless something goes awry with the pitch preparations at the Gabba.

Doug Bollinger, Ben Hilfenhaus and Mitchell Johnson are expected to lead Australia's pace attack, wuth Peter George, Peter Siddle, Ryan Harris and Mitchell Starc in contention for the final slot in Australia's final XI., FOX Sports reports. (ANI)

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'Beleaguered' PCB boss Butt seeking second term would be 'ridiculous': Akram

Published>Mon, Oct 18 10 02:07 PM

Karachi, Oct 18 (ANI): Former Pakistan skipper Wasim Akram feels that Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Ijaz Butt seeking another term would be nothing but ridiculous, as the whole country wants him ousted from the post.

"If Ijaz has asked for another term then hats off to him. The whole of Pakistan and world cricket is after him. Pakistan cricket is in a mess, there is no leadership and amidst all this, to ask for another term, well what can I say. This shows that his advisors are not giving him the right directions," the Daily Times quoted Akram, as saying to a sports TV channel.

The PCB chief's term (October 6, 2008 - October 31, 2010) has been marred by controversies. Butt, who has been facing scathing criticism from all quarters for the way he has handled the spot-fixing scandal or allowed things to get out of hand in the team, has also been blamed for interfering in purely cricket and team matters, something which no chairman had done in the past.

Under his chairmanship, Pakistan has also seen five different Test captains come and go in just over a year- Shoaib Malik, Younus Khan, Mohammed Yousuf, Shahid Afridi and Salman Butt.

Akram said, "Ijaz has been unable to hold forte. He is not a man in command. Pakistan cricket is in doldrums. There is no leadership and it was the chairman's role to keep all these things under check. He has failed."

The selection board has also been criticised for not consulting ODI skipper Shahid Afridi and coach Waqar Younis while picking the team for the upcoming series against South Africa in UAE.

Blaming the whole incident as a management failure, Akram said, "I strongly believe that the presence of the captain and coach is a must in the process of team selection. It's fine that it is a selectors' job, but again it is a team game. If you keep fighting amongst yourselves then where is the leadership? The ball once again falls in Ijaz's court. He should take care of all these things."

Talking about the forthcoming Pak-South Africa series, he said, "Pakistan can beat anybody in Twenty20, but the one-dayers and Tests will be a different ball game. Even if Pakistan win a match or two South Africa can always come back, they are always a difficult side."

"Wherever the Proteas play, they are a tough side to beat. Pakistan will give them competition, but I believe the series will be a close affair," Akram added. (ANI)

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CWG gold should shut up rumour mongers: Jwala

Published>Mon, Oct 18 10 01:56 PM

Commonwealth Games gold-winning shuttler Jwala Gutta on Monday said she played with a vengeance at the mega-event to shut the mouths of all those critics who were spreading "baseless" stories of her link-up with former Indian cricket captain Mohammed Azharuddin.

Jwala said she was deeply hurt by the stories about her personal life in the run up to the Commonwealth Games and accused the Andhra Pradesh Badminton Association of starting the rumours.

"It was quite painful for me. Initially, I heard that the sources they were getting this, was from Andhra Badminton Association. I was shocked that such baseless things could come out from my own fraternity. I was deeply hurt," she said in an interview.

"I am what I am. I got back. I played with a lot of vengeance. I have shut everyone who was talking shit about me," she said.

Jwala, who won gold in women's doubles partnering Ashwini Ponnappa, said the link-up stories did not upset her parents as they knew what she was.

"I knew what I was and I think my parents knew what I was. I did not give any explanation. That was the most surprising thing. I thought they would be upset. But they knew everything. I did not hide anything from anyone," she said.

Still without a sponsor, Jwala said she hoped she would get one after her gold medal in the CWG.

"Me, Ashwini and V Diju, we are looking forward for sponsorships. We don't have a single sponsorship. I hope after this gold, things will change," she said.

"After so much hardship I have been through, I think I totally deserve this and the gold medal means the world to me," she added.

She attributed her success to the support from her family members and coaching by Dronacharya awardee S M Arif.

"If I am strong mentally, nothing can stop me. My family, my parents, my sister, my friends, they were totally behind me.

"My coach Arif, even if I call him at midnight he picks up the phone. He is always there for me. Atiq sir, who came from Indonesia to train us, I think he played a vital role in our victory," she said.

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Dhoni blames Ponting's Hauritz play for thrashing

Published>Mon, Oct 18 10 01:52 PM

Indian skipper MS Dhoni has joined a list of sportsmen, past and present, to blast the beleaguered Australian captain.

Dhoni said that Australian spin bowler Nathan Hauritz may have done better in the Test series against India with shrewder field placings.

Dhoni in a way seconded Australian legend Shane Warne's criticism of Ponting's field placement for Hauritz during Test series against India. Hauritz struggled to make an impact during the two Tests, and was treated with outright contempt when it mattered most on the final days at Mohali and Bangalore.

Warne sent a series of Tweets during the fifth day of the second Test criticising the fields Ponting had set for off-spinner Hauritz, The Sydney Morning Herald reports.

"Indians are considered among the best players of spin bowling and at the same times the wickets we had in the Tests were not classic turning tracks," Dhoni said.

"So you didn't just need to bowl in the right areas, you had to bowl at the right pace and you have to back yourself with the right kind of field also," said Dhoni.

"So what I personally think is he did quite good in the series. It will be a good learning experience for him, but just to turn around and say this bowler didn't do well in this series would be wrong," he said.

"Our spinners have got the experience behind themselves to play in these kinds of conditions being a home team, most situations and most conditions favour them and they know exactly what to do," Dhoni said.

"And at times it is better off to just attack one side of the wicket so that you can take maybe one or two fielders out of the other side, and place them in a position where you can get the batsman out. It may not look very good from outside, but it really works, because it helps," he said.

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Lee to play Twenty20 cricket in New Zealand to earn Oz recall

Published>Mon, Oct 18 10 01:37 PM

Melbourne, Oct 18 (ANI): To press his claims for an international recall ahead of the 2011 World Cup, Australian fast bowler is all set to play Twenty20 cricket in New Zealand.

Lee is scheduled to make his first appearance for Wellington against Auckland on December 15.

Lee, who made a successful return to domestic cricket with New South Wales against Western Australia on Sunday, will play five Twenty20 matches for provincial side Wellington when the Blues do not require him.

The 33-year-old speedster is the second Australian player to sign on for a New Zealand province after Blues teammate David Warner committed to Northern Districts, FOX Sports reports.ee retired from Test cricket in 2008, but the veteran pacer is still hopeful of a return to the Australia set-up for Twenty20 and one-day internationals.

He took the first steps towards an international recall with a promising 2-37 in the Blues' five-wicket win over the Warriors at Hurstville Oval, his first domestic match in six months. (ANI)

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Why 'poles apart' Ponting and Warne are destined to end up sparring

Published>Mon, Oct 18 10 01:26 PM

Sydney, Oct 18(ANI): The blow-up between Australian captain Ricky Ponting and former spinner Shane Warne has come as no surprise as the two are very different characters, a noted cricket columnist has said.

Writing in Fox Sports, Ben Dorries highlighted that even the gambling habits of Ponting and Warne are poles apart.

"Back in his days as a blue-collar bachelor, Ponting was mad keen on the greyhounds and the trots. The night before the 1997 Ashes tour he took a ride with his trainer from Launceston to Hobart to see one of his dogs win," Dorries wrote.

"By contrast, Warne is a high roller on the poker tables. He travels the world to play in tournaments with his flash sunglasses on. He adores the limelight and being surrounded by fellow celebrities," he added.

He stressed that Ponting is a nuts-and-bolts man whereas Warne is far more instinctive and cavalier, which is reflected in their different views on captaincy.

Dorries also highlighted that Warne has never really endorsed Ponting's leadership.

"It goes back to Ponting getting the Test captaincy in 2004 ahead of Warne, when the leg-spinner desperately coveted the role," Dorries said.

"Their relationship deteriorated further during the 2005 Ashes over Ponting's ill-fated decision to bowl first at Edgbaston, despite losing Glenn McGrath to injury on the first morning before play," he added.

He further labeled Warne as the best captain Australia never had.

"Despite all his off-field troubles, Warne was always as sharp as a tack on the cricket field and one of the best attacking minds going around. He was a leader of men and roused the very best out of everyone around him," Dorries said.

"He knew how to work out a batsman, knew what made bowlers click and knew how to wriggle out of almost any situation," he added. (ANI)

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