Sports News – Monthly Newsletter January 2011

PCB recalls Younus to Test and T20 squads, overlooks Malik, Akmal, Yousuf

LAHORE – The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) selection committee, headed by former Test opener Mohsin Hasan Khan, has omitted wicketkeeper Kamran Akmal, all-rounder Shoaib Malik and batsman Mohammad Yousuf from the Test and Twenty20 squads named for the New Zealand tour starting with a warm-up game against Auckland on December 23.

However, former captain Younus Khan … Original article on : PCB recalls Younus to Test and T20 squads, overlooks Malik, Akmal, Yousuf.

Flower backs Swann to fire in second Ashes Test in Adelaide

ADELAIDE – England coach Andy Flower is confident that off-spinner Graeme Swann will have a major impact on this week’s second Ashes Test in Adelaide.

Swann had a modest first Test in Brisbane where he finished with match figures of 2-161 from 51 overs.

Flower however believes that suggestions from former players such as Geoff Boycott that …. Source  : Flower backs Swann to fire in second Ashes Test in Adelaide.

Johnson’s action and confidence is low: Stuart Clark

SYDNEY – Former Australian fast bowler Stuart Clark believes that left-arm quick Mitchell Johnson’s confidence is low and so is his action, i.e. his front arm is pulling away from his body and this is causing his wrist to be more horizontal rather than vertical.

He says in a write-up for the Sydney Morning Herald … Original source on Gaea Times at : Johnson’s action and confidence is low: Stuart Clark.

Chappells split on key quick Johnson

ADELAIDE – Left-arm quick Mitchell Johnson has lost the faith of one Chappell brother, but the one who will determine his Test fate still regards him as a key to Australia’s hopes of regaining the Ashes.

National selector Greg Chappell said last night he was not worried by Johnson’s performance in the first Test, but refused …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Chappells split on key quick Johnson.

ICC makes further progress towards Test, ODI leagues

DUBAI – The ICC Chief Executives’ Committee (CEC) met at ICC headquarters in Dubai and made excellent progress towards finalising the Future Tours Programme (FTP) Test and ODI league schedules and began the process of drawing up rules, regulations and a points system for the leagues.

The CEC agreed to reconstitute its working group comprising David … Read more »»».

The top 20 online questions of 2010

LONDON – ‘Why are England so bad at football?’ and ‘Is The X Factor fixed?’ are the most common new questions being put to the Ask Jeeves search engine.

Ask Jeeves receives 360,000 direct questions and an average 1.8million queries – such as basic name searches – every day.

Here are the top 20 searched-for questions of …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : The top 20 online questions of 2010.

Winning Adelaide Test will be Ponting’s greatest challenge: Warne

ADELAIDE – Former Australian leg-spinner Shane Warne believes that the host team’s bid to win the second Ashes Test in Adelaide will be skipper Ricky Ponting’s greatest challenge.

According to Warne, the task of getting Australia to regroup and focus will be a tremendous one for Ponting, after the draw in Brisbane.

“This is the biggest test …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Winning Adelaide Test will be Ponting’s greatest challenge: Warne.

Clarke says he’s fit for second Test

ADELAIDE – Australian vice-captain Michael Clarke has declared himself fit for the second Ashes Test after a lengthy net session at Adelaide Oval here.

Clarke has been suffering from a recurring back problem, and in the Gabba Test, he struggled while making nine runs from 50 balls.

The Age and the Sydney Morning Herald quoted Clarke, as …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Ex- opener Trescothick to use Mongoose bat to win Lord’s million-dollar six jackpot

LONDON – Former England opener Marcus Trescothick will be trying to hit a million-dollar six with a Mongoose bat that was also used by former Australian opener Matthew Hayden.

According to The Daily Telegraph, Trescothick says he will be “trying to swing from ball one” after being set a million dollar challenge next season.rescothick has to …. Original article  : Ex- opener Trescothick to use Mongoose bat to win Lord’s million-dollar six jackpot.

Miandad declines to be batting consultant for Pakistan team

KARACHI – Former Pakistan captain Javed Miandad has declined the job of batting consultant for the tour of New Zealand after being told by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) that he would have to report to national coach Waqar Younis.

Miandad, currently serving as PCB director-general, was interested to work as batting and fielding …. Original article  : Miandad declines to be batting consultant for Pakistan team.

India opt to field against New Zealand

JAIPUR – India’s stand-in captain Gautam Gambhir won the toss and opted to field against New Zealand in the second One-day International against New Zealand at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium here Wednesday.

India are fielding the same side that won the first match in Guwahati. For New Zealand, captain Daniel Vettori comes in place of … Original article on : India opt to field against New Zealand.

UEFA punishment for Mourinho, players irritates Madrid

MADRID – Real Madrid and their fans are irritated at European football body UEFA’s decision, announced Tuesday, to give coach Jose Mourinho a heavy fine and a Champions League touchline ban.

UEFA’s disciplinary committee found Mourinho guilty of improper conduct for having ordered Real players Xabi Alonso and Sergio Ramos to get themselves sent off …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : UEFA punishment for Mourinho, players irritates Madrid.

Smouldering Cook is England’s Toy wonder: Swann

Adelaide (Australia), Dec. 1 (ANI): England opener Alastair Cook may not be the batsman you would go miles to watch, but his strong mentality and his ability to deliver in a telling manner when the chips are down, makes him an asset for any team, feels off-spinner Graeme Swann.

In a write-up for The Sun, Swann [..] Read the original article: here.

Smouldering Cook is England’s Toy wonder: Swann

ADELAIDE – England opener Alastair Cook may not be the batsman you would go miles to watch, but his strong mentality and his ability to deliver in a telling manner when the chips are down, makes him an asset for any team, feels off-spinner Graeme Swann.

In a write-up for The Sun, Swann said: “He might … Read more >>>.

Murray needs to acquire in your face attitude to win Grand Slam: Henman

LONDON – Former British number one Tim Henman and ex-Wimbledon champion Goran Ivanisevic have advised World number four Andy Murray to acquire an in your face attitude if he ever wants to win a Grand Slam title.

“Andy’s game style is the issue because he’s got all the shots. When he’s been successful in the tournaments … Original article on : Murray needs to acquire in your face attitude to win Grand Slam: Henman.

Ashes: Ex-selector Hughes says Johnson should not be dropped

MELBOURNE – Former Test selector Merv Hughes believes it would be a mistake to drop left-arm fast bowler Mitchell Johnson from the Australian squad for the second Ashes Test to be played against England in Adelaide from Friday.

Hughes said that such a move would be unfathomable and would seriously dent Johnson’s confidence.

He believed Ben Hilfenhaus … Read more »».

FIFA bribery scandal: IOC to investigate, CAF refutes claim

BERLIN – The International Olympic Committee (IOC) Tuesday said they would investigate claims that a FIFA vice president, who is also a member of the IOC had received a bribe.

The BBC Monday claimed that three FIFA executive members, including the president of the African Football Confederation (CAF) Issa Hayatou had been bribed …. Read the original article  : FIFA bribery scandal: IOC to investigate, CAF refutes claim.

Trescothick tips England for Ashes glory

LONDON – Former England opener Marcus Trescothick has tipped England for Ashes glory.

Following Alastair Cook’s record-breaking exploits in the drawn first Test at Brisbane, and centuries by Andrew Strauss and Jonathan Trott, Tresco hopes another show of strength by England at Adelaide can drive a wedge into the Australian squad.

“If we continue to dominate in … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Trescothick tips England for Ashes glory.

Pace bowler Harris gives selectors six screeching reasons to pick him for Adelaide

ADELAIDE – South Australian right-arm fast bowler Ryan Harris has given the national selectors six telling reasons to include him in Ponting’s squad for the second Ashes Test against England to be played here from Friday.

Six screaming deliveries to Mike Hussey have proved Harris is the man mostly likely to torment England’s left-handed duo of …. Original source  : Pace bowler Harris gives selectors six screeching reasons to pick him for Adelaide.

Bookie reveals Pak players Wahab, Kamran, Umar, Imran also involved in spot-fixing

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s preparations for the World Cup have received a major jolt after Mazhar Majeed, the alleged bookmaker at the centre of the spot-fixing allegations plaguing the national team, revealed names of four more players involved with him in fixing matches.

Pakistani cricketers- Kamran Akmal, Umar Akmal, Wahab Riaz and Imran Farhat- were named in …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Sharath, Subhajit qualify for ITTF Pro Tour Grand Finals

NEW DELHI – Top paddlers Sharath Kamal and Subhajit Saha have qualified for the season-ending International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) Pro Tour Grand Finals to be held in Seoul Dec 16-19.

The duo is the first from India to play in the prestigious event since its inception in 1996.
… Original article on : Sharath, Subhajit qualify for ITTF Pro Tour Grand Finals.

Kolkata HIV patients play soccer to celebrate World Aids Day

KOLKATA – HIV patients played a soccer match with Mohun Bagan’s junior team on the occasion of World Aids Day here to spread awareness about the disease.

The match was organised by the Society for Community Intervention and Research and Medical Bank.

The secretary of a Medical Bank, D. Ashis, said the spirit of the game was … Read more »»».

Hilfenhaus facing possible axe for Adelaide Test

ADELAIDE – Australian fast bowler Ben Hilfenhaus could face the axe in the Adelaide Test, following his one wicket haul at the Gabba.

The host team for the second Test has already been given a shake up, with out-of-form speedster Mitchell Johnson dropped from the 12-man squad on Thursday.

Johnson’s omission almost certainly means a Test recall … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Hilfenhaus facing possible axe for Adelaide Test.

Watson was under-bowled at Gabba, is crucial to Oz attack: Blewett

|US, South Korea plan more military exercises as warning to belligerent North|World[US{WASHINGTON - The United States and South Korea are planning to carry out more joint military exercises as early as this month, South Korea’s military has said.

The announcement comes after the two sides wrapped up a four-day joint military exercise in the waters .... Original article  : Watson was under-bowled at Gabba, is crucial to Oz attack: Blewett.

Pietersen labels Adelaide groundsmen "pathetic

ADELAIDE - Key England batsman Kevin Pietersen’s tweet labeling Adelaide Oval groundsmen as pathetic has not gone down well with his team, or with Australian fans here.

Key batsmen Pietersen fumed when practice pitches were uncovered during a sudden downpour in Adelaide on Wednesday, forcing the tourists to train indoors.

He reportedly made his feelings known ... Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Pietersen labels Adelaide groundsmen “pathetic.

Oz bowling attack is the worst in 30 years: Thomson

ADELAIDE - Forme Australian fast bowler Jeff Thomson has described the current Australian bowling attack as the worst he has seen in 30 years.

“It’s a worry for the selectors. With Mitch not bowling well, this is our weakest attack for a long time, going back to the 1980s,” the Herald Sun quoted Thomson, Dennis Lillee’s .... Source article  : Oz bowling attack is the worst in 30 years: Thomson.

Adelaide won't be the same as Brisbane, feels combative Strauss

ADELAIDE - England cricket captain Andrew Strauss has reiterated his team’s desire to get off to a strong start in the Ashes series.

With the Brisbane Test ending in a draw and with more plaudits for England than Australia, Strauss has warned his mates not to think too much about the past and to remain focused .... Source  : Gaea News Network.

Ashes 2010: Strauss says England not complacent ahead of second Test

ADELAIDE - England cricket captain Andrew Strauss is adamant that his team will not be swept away by Australia here as it was in 2006, nor would the squad be complacent after securing a draw in Brisbane.

“For us to be jumping up and down and congratulating each other would be a long way off the .... Original source  : Ashes 2010: Strauss says England not complacent ahead of second Test.

Media bashed Ponting looking to turn things around in Adelaide Oval Test

ADELAIDE - Australian captain Ricky Ponting has fond memories of the Adelaide Oval, which will be the venue of the second Ashes Test against England from Friday, and is hoping that the media bashing that he has copped after the Gabba Test will reduce with a better performance from his team and himself.

Ponting has scored .... Source article  : Media bashed Ponting looking to turn things around in Adelaide Oval Test.

Ponting challenges Barmy Army to turn out in droves

ADELAIDE - Australian cricket skipper Ricky Ponting has called on the Barmy Army to turn out in droves for this year’s Ashes series in Australia.

“I have said for a long time even they booed me at every opportunity last year, they are the best bunch of supporters that we play in front of for the .... Source  : Gaea News Network.

Man U youngsters not upto scratch: Ex-full-back

LONDON - Manchester United’s current crop of youngsters are simply not good enough, feels former full-back Viv Anderson.

Anderson passed his judgment after watching Alex Ferguson’s team crashed 4-0 at West Ham in Tuesday’s Carling Cup quarterfinal.

Jonny Evans, 22, played alongside 21-year-old Chris Smalling at the heart of the defence, with Fabio, 20, at right-back. All ... Original source on Gaea Times at : Man U youngsters not upto scratch: Ex-full-back.

England must block out 2006 Ashes nightmare: Gillespie

ADELAIDE - Former Australian fast bowler Jason Gillespie has said that England must block out the harrowing memories of the Ashes series played Down Under in 2006, or risk scuppering their second Test hopes.

England return to the scene of one of their famous Ashes capitulations tomorrow when they take the field at the Adelaide Oval.

Going .... Source  : Gaea News Network.

Fuming Putin accuses England of 'dirty tricks' before 2018 World Cup bid

LONDON/MOSCOW - A fuming Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin has accused England of launching a ‘dirty tricks campaign’ to secure its right to host the 2018 World Cup.

The crunch vote as to which country will host the event takes place later today.

According to the Daily Mail, Putin told Russian ministers he would not travel to .... Source article  : Fuming Putin accuses England of ‘dirty tricks’ before 2018 World Cup bid.

Hamilton impressed by 2011 McLaren Formula One car

LONDON - Former Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton has said that he is impressed by next year’s McLaren Formula One car.

The 2008 world champ gave his verdict after jumping into the “cockpit” of the new MP4-26 for a virtual test on the Woking team’s simulator, The Sun reports.

He had several tweaks to try out, including ... Original source on Gaea Times at : Hamilton impressed by 2011 McLaren Formula One car.

Vettori blames Kiwi bowlers' profligacy for Jaipur ODI rout against India

JAIPUR - New Zealand captain Daniel Vettori reckons that his bowlers lacked penetration and discipline on a flat batting wicket for Wednesday’s second ODI of the five match series against India.

New Zealand lost the match at Jaipur’s Sawai Man Singh Stadium by eight-wickets, which sees the tourists go 0-2 down in the series.

Stand-in Indian captain ... Read more »».

Gautam Gambhir Returns To Form

JAIPUR, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- India’s win against New Zealand in the 2nd ODI at Jaipur will allow Indian fans a sigh of relief as batting mainstay Gautam Gambhir has shown a great return to form with a smashing century. His century not only helped India cruise to an easy victory but also gave the selectors ... Read this article on Gaea Times at : Gautam Gambhir Returns To Form.

Strauss questions Johnson's axing for second Ashes Test

ADELAIDE - England captain Andrew Strauss reckons that it is a “big call” by Australia to drop out of sorts fast bowler Mitchell Johnson for the second Test match of the Ashes series, starting in Adelaide on Friday.

Strauss described Johnson as an important player for Australia.

“It’s quite a big call for them to leave him .... Original article on Gaea Times at  : Strauss questions Johnson’s axing for second Ashes Test.

Ponting confirms 'poor form' behind Johnson's axing for second Ashes Test

ADELAIDE - Australian captain Ricky Ponting has confirmed that struggling fast bowler Mitchell Johnson has been dropped from the 12-man squad for the second Test match of the Ashes series, starting in Adelaide on Friday.

Ponting said that Johnson’s poor form in his wicketless Ashes opener cost him a place for the Test.

“Mitchell Johnson is out .... Source article  : Ponting confirms ‘poor form’ behind Johnson’s axing for second Ashes Test.

Gambhir's unbeaten ton helps India beat Kiwis by eight wickets (Roundup)

JAIPUR - Stand-in cricket captain Gautam Gambhir struck a flawless unbeaten century as India beat New Zealand by eight wickets in the second One-day International here Wednesday to go two-up in the five-match series.

Chasing a target of 259, Gambhir remained unbeaten on 138 from 116 balls, as India achieved the target in 43 overs. .... Read the original article  : Gambhir’s unbeaten ton helps India beat Kiwis by eight wickets (Roundup).

Clijsters voted woman tennis player of the year

BERLIN - Kim Clijsters of Belgium has been voted the woman tennis player of the year for the second time in her career, governing body WTA announced Wednesday.

Clijsters, who first earned the accolade in 2005 and came out of retirement last year, won five trophies 2010, highlighted by a third US Open title.
“It’s .... Source article on Gaea Times at  : Clijsters voted woman tennis player of the year.

Strauss remains sceptical about use of 'controversial' Umpiring Review System

LONDON - England captain Andrew Strauss has said that he remains sceptical about the use of the review system that allows cricketers to challenge umpiring decisions.

It is a concern shared by his teammates who would prefer not to be substitute umpires and forced to make snap judgments about whether an opponent is ‘in’ or ‘out’. ... Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Strauss remains sceptical about use of ‘controversial’ Umpiring Review System.

McMillan concerned over Kiwis' lack of confidence ahead of 2011 World Cup

WELLINGTON - Former New Zealand ODI captain Craig McMillan believes the national team’s campaign is teetering alarmingly just two months before the World Cup.

McMillan is concerned that the team is lacking confidence on and off the field, its batting tentative, and batsmen Ross Taylor and Kane Williamson playing in the wrong positions.

The eight-wicket defeat ... Read more »».

Shane Warne's toothy avatar sends Aussie viewers scurrying

MELBOURNE - Shane Warne may be known as the king of spin but his relationship with Aussie viewers is clearly being tested - after shedding half of his debut audience of 854,000 people last week.

These are the kind of figures, which should see him dropped from Nine’s schedule.

But the former Australian spinner is expected .... Original source  : Shane Warne’s toothy avatar sends Aussie viewers scurrying.

Doug Bollinger Recalled Into Side

ADELAIDE (GaeaTimes.com)- Mitchell Johnson’s lack of form has prompted the Australian selectors to make an immediate change in the bowling line-up considering that the pressure on Ricky Ponting’s side has been immense after the first test ended in a draw. Mitchell Johnson went wicket-less and the English batsmen seemed to have absolutely no .... Original article on Gaea Times at  : Doug Bollinger Recalled Into Side.

England bowlers decimate Australia on day one of Adelaide Ashes Test

ADELAIDE - England bowlers made a sensational start to the second Ashes Test at the Adelaide Oval by bowling out Australia for 245 in their first innings on day one on Friday.

Asked to bowl first, England had a dream opening three overs when they took three quick wickets to have the hosts 3-2 after 13 ... Read more : England bowlers decimate Australia on day one of Adelaide Ashes Test.

Philadelphia Eagles VS Houston Texans Outcome

PHILADELPHIA (GaeaTimes.com) Thursday night witnessed the victory of the Philadelphia Eagles over the Houston Texans as the latter were crushed down by the former with the match outcome resulting in a 34-24 victory for the Eagles. Philadelphia Eagles supporters have a good reason to celebrate after the team emerged victorious in the Texans vs Eagles ... Read more >>>.

Pietersen didn't cross 'twitter line' by criticizing Adelaide curator: Strauss

MELBOURNE - England captain Andrew Strauss has said that star batsman Kevin Pietersen has not crossed the line by criticizing Adelaide Oval curator Damian Hough on Twitter.

Pietersen was rebuked earlier for slamming the English selectors who dumped him from their limited-overs sides earlier this year.

Asked if Pietersen had crossed a line with his latest outburst, ... Original article on : Pietersen didn’t cross ‘twitter line’ by criticizing Adelaide curator: Strauss.

Matches against Arsenal, Chelsea key to winning back Premier League: Ferguson

LONDON - Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has said that a six-day period later this month will be key to his team’s chances of winning back the Premier League title.

Manchester United hosts rivals Arsenal at Old Trafford on Monday week and then travel to Stamford Bridge to face Chelsea on December 19.

Ferguson .... Original article  : Matches against Arsenal, Chelsea key to winning back Premier League: Ferguson.

Becks, Posh are devotees of 'healing crystals'

LONDON - David Beckham and wife Victoria have become devotees of ‘healing crystals’ since moving to California.

The former England captain and his wife keep the colorful stones in their respective bathrooms at their 14-million-pounds Beverly Hills home-in the hope that they will improve their health and boost their energy levels.

Crystals and gemstones have been considered ... Read more >>.

England not cheated out of 2018 World Cup bid: Putin

LONDON - Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin has said that England was not “cheated” out of holding the 2018 World Cup.

Russia and Qatar were named as hosts of the 2018 and 2022 World Cup soccer tournaments on Thursday.

Asked if he thought England had been cheated in its bid, he said: “No, I don’t think. You ... Original source on Gaea Times at : England not cheated out of 2018 World Cup bid: Putin.

Ferdinand 'gutted' after England's 2018 World Cup bid loss

LONDON - England captain Rio Ferdinand says he had been gutted after his country lost to Russia in its bid to host the 2018 football World cup.

Prime Minister David Cameron, Prince William and Three Lions legend David Beckham led the bid for the 2018 World Cup.

Ferdinand expressed his disbelief after the FIFA vote, The ... Read more >>.

'Miffed' England accuses Fifa members of 'reneging on commitments' in failed WC bid

LONDON - England has accused the Fifa executive committee members of lying after they suffered a humiliating defeat in the race to host the 2018 football World Cup that saw them poll just two votes, one of which came from bid chairman Geoff Thompson.

England bid chief executive Andy Anson said that Fifa members had reneged ... Read more : ‘Miffed’ England accuses Fifa members of ‘reneging on commitments’ in failed WC bid.

Liverpool, Dynamo Kiev, PSG progress in Europa League

BERLIN - Six more teams secured their places in the last 32 of the Europa League Thursday following the penultimate round of matches in the tournament’s group stage.

The seven teams that booked their places Wednesday were joined by five-time European champions Liverpool, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), Besiktas Istanbul, Dynamo Kiev and Sparta Prague.
A 1-1 .... Read the original article  : here.

Ex-Iranian soccer star's 'permanent' wife's son kicked stool to hang mum's 'love rival'

TEHRAN - Shahla Jahed, the ex-lover of former Iranian soccer star Nasser Mohammad Khani who was found guilty of murdering the footballer’s ‘permanent’ wife, was hanged at Tehran’s Evin prison on Thursday morning, with the victim’s son kicking away the stool on which she stood awaiting for her execution.

According to the Daily Mail, .... Read the original article  : Ex-Iranian soccer star’s ‘permanent’ wife’s son kicked stool to hang mum’s ‘love rival’.

WikiLeaks cables portray Afghan President Karzai as paranoid and weak individual

LONDON - Afghanistan President Hamid Karzai is regularly described by diplomats and foreign statesmen as erratic, emotional and prone to believing paranoid conspiracy theories, according to classified US diplomatic cables released by whistleblower website Wikileaks.

According to the Guardian, on some occasions Karzai’s own ministers accuse him of complicity in criminal activity, including ordering the physical ... Read more »».

Becks is a tidy man in bathroom while Posh is 'messy'

LONDON - David Beckham is a tidy man in bathroom, while wife Victoria is “very messy”- these are some of the bathroom secrets of the celebrity couple.

“She always leaves her drawers open and leaves the toothpaste top off too,” the Daily Mail quoted the soccer star as telling InStyle magazine.

“It’s kind of her mess, .... Source  : Gaea News Network.

Adam Dunn To Join Chicago White Sox

CHICAGO (GaeaTimes.com)- The Washington Nationals have lost their best slugger. Yes, this is the latest buzz stirring the baseball circle after Adam Dunn decided to move on with the Chicago White Sox. the noted player will be soon shifting camps, moving on to the Chicago White Sox after the later team agreed to hire him ... Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Adam Dunn To Join Chicago White Sox.

Cleveland Cavaliers Vs Miami Heat: LeBron James Sizzles

CLEVELAND (GaeaTimes.com)- Lebron James returned to Cleveland in a game against the side that helped him achieve super-stardom in basketball. While the crowds chanted profanities and booed every time he touched the ball, LeBron James managed to keep his cool in the Cleveland Cavaliers Vs Miami Heat game on December 2.
Miami Heat started the ... Read : Cleveland Cavaliers Vs Miami Heat: LeBron James Sizzles.

LeBron James Greeted With Boos

CLEVELAND (GaeaTimes.com)- In what was by far one of the most anticipated matches of the NBA season this year, the Miami Heat took on the Cleveland Cavaliers on December 2. The hype surrounding the match reached epic proportions especially because Cleveland’s son-turned-villain, LeBron James, would be playing in the city where his jersey’s were .... Original article on Gaea Times at  : LeBron James Greeted With Boos.

England bid organisers left dejected by 2018 World Cup failure

LONDON - The organisers of England’s failed bid to stage the FIFA World Cup in 2018 were left angry and gutted Thursday with the overriding feeling being that “sometimes the best team doesn’t necessarily win”.

FIFA’s 22-man executive committee voted for Russia to host the competition, with England going out at the first stage, despite .... Source article on Gaea Times at  : England bid organisers left dejected by 2018 World Cup failure.

Holland Reynolds Inspires Her Coach

SAN FRANCISCO (GaeaTimes.com)- Holland Reynolds, a 16-year-old high school student made her way to the headlines, after she collapsed while racing, yet ensured her team, San Francisco University High School’s victory as she crawled with her knees and hands to reach the finishing line on time. The girl proved her determination and poise as .... Source article on Gaea Times at  : Holland Reynolds Inspires Her Coach.

Referee penalises US football player for thanking God after touchdown

LONDON - An American football referee has caused controversy after he penalised a high school player for thanking God after he scored a touchdown.

Tumwater High’s Ronnie Hastie had got down on one knee and pointed to the sky as a way of celebrating for scoring in the game, something which he had been doing all .... Original source  : Referee penalises US football player for thanking God after touchdown.

Ancelotti blasts Chelsea players for lacking 'desire to win'

LONDON - Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti has criticized his players for lacking the “desire to win”, and said that they have to beat Everton on Saturday.

Chelsea has three defeats and a draw in five league games. Ancelotti said “everything was wrong”.

Ancelotti, whose own long-term future remains in doubt, confirmed that Michael Essien and John ... Original source on Gaea Times at : Ancelotti blasts Chelsea players for lacking ‘desire to win’.

2018 World Cup campaigners express fears over Russian racist attacks

MOSCOW - Russia’s football authorities, who would host the 2018 World Cup, have been accused of ignoring a surge in race-related incidents around the sport, by campaigners.

Their warnings have come amid a rise in racist murders and neo-Nazi activity in the country that could stop thousands of non-white football fans from attending the tournament.

Rafal Pankowski, ... Original source on Gaea Times at : 2018 World Cup campaigners express fears over Russian racist attacks.

Phil Jasner Passes Away

PHILADELPHIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Longtime Sixers beat writer and news writer, Phil Jasner breathed his last on Friday. The well known sports writer died after long battle with cancer at the age of 68. Colleagues and other followers of the prolific writer have taken to the web to express their sorrow at the news of his ... Original source on Gaea Times at : Phil Jasner Passes Away.

Franklin hits unbeaten 72 as New Zealand make 224/9

VADODARA - James Franklin scored an unbeaten 72 as New Zealand made 224 for nine after a poor start against India in the third One-Day International at the Reliance Stadium here Saturday.

New Zealand were 106 for seven in the 30th over and Franklin led the fight-back with a gutsy innings and also shared a ... Read : Franklin hits unbeaten 72 as New Zealand make 224/9.

Russians knew 24 hours in advance about World Cup bid results

LONDON - Russia World Cup bid chief executive Alexey Sorokin was so confident that he boldly told the England team in Zurich 24 hours in advance that his country had enough votes to win.

The World Cup bidding process was branded a fix last night, as it emerged that the claim made by former diplomat Sorokin .... Read the original article  : here.

Wenger says Fifa World Cup bidding process is from 'Middle Ages'

LONDON - Hurt by the failure of England’s 2018 campaign to host the World Cup, Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has likened Fifa’s bidding process to something from the “Middle Ages”.
Wenger said he could not understand how England got only two votes in Fifa’s bidding process for the 2018 World Cup.

“I am very sad - I ... Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Wenger says Fifa World Cup bidding process is from ‘Middle Ages’.

Scoreboard of New Zealand's innings against India

VADODARA - The following is the scoreboard of New Zealands innings against India in the third One-day International at the Reliance Stadium here Saturday.

New Zealand:
Martin Guptill run out (Gambhir) 12
Brendan McCullum c Vijay b Khan 0
Kane Williamson lbw Patel 21
Ross Taylor c Saha b Khan 4
Scott Styris c Yuvraj .... Source  : Scoreboard of New Zealand’s innings against India.

Lazio draw level at top, worsen Inter Milan's crisis

ROME - Lazio beat Inter Milan 3-1 Friday to hold the Italian champions far from the upper tiers and draw level with Serie A leaders AC Milan.

Milan can regain the lead and leave the city rivals 10 points behind when they welcome promoted Brescia Saturday for a regional derby.
At Rome’s Stadio Olimpico, defender ... Read this article on Gaea Times at : Lazio draw level at top, worsen Inter Milan’s crisis.

New Zealand set 225-run target for India

VADODARA - New Zealand made 224 for nine in 50 overs against India in the third One-day International at the Reliance Stadium here Saturday.

James Franklin was the top scorer with an unbeaten 72 while Nathan McCullum made 43. Zaheer Khan, Ravichandran Ashwin and Yusuf Pathan picked up two wickets each.
... Original article on : New Zealand set 225-run target for India.

Djokovic mounts Serbia's fightback in Davis Cup final

BELGRADE - National tennis idol Novak Djokovic struggled at the end but emerged with a win to leave 17,000 fans with weekend victory hopes intact as he pulled host Serbia level 1-1 with France to end opening day play at the Davis Cup final Friday.

World number 3-ranked Djokovic constructed a 6-3, 6-1, 7-5 defeat .... Read the original article  : Djokovic mounts Serbia’s fightback in Davis Cup final.

Tyson admits getting drunk after every fight

LONDON - Former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson has admitted that he binged on booze “after every fight”.

Tyson, who became the youngest champion in history when he won the World Boxing Council (WBC) title in 1986 at the age of just 20, was addicted to alcohol throughout his career in the ring.

He went on to become .... Original article  : Tyson admits getting drunk after every fight.

Ron Santo Passes Away

ARIZONA (GaeaTimes.com)- Veteran player of Chicago Cubs and broadcaster, Ron Santo breathed his last on Thursday night in Arizona. WGN Radio, where Ron Santo was the commentator announced the news to the media. The legendary player died battling his complications from bladder cancer in an Arizona hospital at the age of 70. His family ... Original article on : Ron Santo Passes Away.

India opt to bowl against New Zealand in third ODI

VADODARA - Indian captain Gautam Gambhir won the toss and opted to field against New Zealand in the third One-Day International here Saturday.

For India, Zaheer Khan comes in for Sreesanth and Ravindra Jadeja replaces Suresh Raina. New Zealand have Brendon McCullum back in the side in place of Jamie How, who has fallen ill, ... Read : India opt to bowl against New Zealand in third ODI.

BJP chief Gadkari holds grand reception in Nagpur

NAGPUR - Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief Nitin Gadkari is holding a grand reception of his son, Nikhil, at the Vidarbha Cricket Association, on the outskirts of Nagpur on Friday.

Besides 15,000 guests, senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders such as L.K. Advani and Narendra Modi are expected to attend the function.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan, ... Read this article on Gaea Times at : BJP chief Gadkari holds grand reception in Nagpur.

Chirag begin with 2-1 win over inexperienced AIFF XI

KOLKATA - Kolkata’s Chirag United logged full points with a 2-1 victory over an experienced AIFF XI in their opening I-League match here Friday.

The giant Salt Lake stadium, having a 1.20 lakh capacity, was almost empty on the inaugural day of the I-League, the most glamorous of India’s football events.
Chirag went into the .... Original source  : Chirag begin with 2-1 win over inexperienced AIFF XI.

Indian Open: Delhi Manav one shot behind Baek and Griffiths

NEW DELHI - Delhi boy Manav Jaini worked his way within one shot of the leading duo of South Korean Baek Seuk-Hyun and Englands Simon Griffiths at the halfway stage of the $1.25 million Hero Honda Indian Open here Friday.

The 20-year-old Baek, who has lived in Thailand for the past eight years, stunned even ... Original source on Gaea Times at : Indian Open: Delhi Manav one shot behind Baek and Griffiths.

Ponnappa says she and Gutta were unlucky at Guangzhou

NEW DELHI - India’s Ashwini Ponnappa, who won the women’s doubles gold in badminton with Jwala Gutta at the New Delhi Commonwealth Games, feels they were unlucky to make an early exit from the Guangzhou Asian Games last month.

They were weighed down by the expectations and lost in straight ... Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Ponnappa says she and Gutta were unlucky at Guangzhou.

Alok himself did not think he would win a pool medal

NEW DELHI - Cueist Alok Kumar, who won a maiden bronze for India in 8-ball pool at the Guanghzhou Asian Games says no one, including himself, thought he would have a podium finish in a sport not as well known as snooker and billiards in India.

Alok recalls beating former World Champion Efren Reyes ... Read : Alok himself did not think he would win a pool medal.

Adrian Gonzalez To Join Boston Red Sox?

BOSTON (GaeaTimes.com)- Slugging first baseman Adrian Gonzalez is all set to join Boston Red Sox after the team in the final stages of edging a contract with San Diego Padres, according to sources. It has been reported that the Boston Red Sox has received the requisite permission from the Major Baseball League to undertake ... Read more : Adrian Gonzalez To Join Boston Red Sox?.

IPL governing council decides in favour of Kochi

MUMBAI - The Indian Premier League (IPL) governing council Sunday decided to retain the Kochi franchise after its owners, in a last-minute agreement, sorted out their differences in the shareholding pattern.

The decision was taken at the IPL governing council meeting here, Board of Control for Cricket in India secretary N. Srinivasan confirmed.
“The ... Read more >>.

France fight back in doubles to take 2-1 lead over Serbia

BELGRADE - France moved to within sight of a 10th Davis Cup title with a doubles comeback win from two sets down to earn a 2-1 lead in the final and leaving hosts Serbia fighting for life after a five-set defeat.

Experienced campaigners Arnaud Clement and Michael Llodra showed their veteran poise under pressure as ... Original article on : France fight back in doubles to take 2-1 lead over Serbia.

UConn Football Updates

TAMPA (GaeaTimes.com)- The Connecticut Huskies have finally made it. They will play their first ever BCS Bowl after they defeated the South Florida Bulls on Saturday night’s football match. The UConn knocked off the Bulls by 19-16 in the final match of Big East Conference action. The credit for this undoubtedly goes to Dave Teggart [..] Read the original article: here.

Dan Henderson Is Back With A Bang

ST. LOUIS (GaeaTimes.com)- Dan Henderson made a remarkable comeback yesterday, as he defeated his opponent Renato “Babalu” Sobral for the first time in ten years. The main card of Strikeforce match took place at the St. Louis. This match delivered the champion from his embarrassing loss to Jake Shields.
Dan Henderson’s loss to Jake Shields [..] Read the original article: here.

Kochi franchise to stay in IPL

NEW DELHI – The Kochi franchise will stay in the Indian Premier League this season, the Board of Control or Cricket in India (BCCI) decided Sunday.

A top BCCI official confirmed to IANS that the decision in favour of Kochi was taken at the governing council meeting.
Earlier, the governing council had deferred its decision … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Kochi franchise to stay in IPL.

Bond takes first step towards fulltime coaching role

AUCKLAND – Former New Zealand fast bowler Shane Bond hopes that his new role as assistant coach with domestic team Central Districts is merely the “first step” in his journey towards a fulltime coaching job.

Bond, who retired from international cricket in May partly due to ongoing injury problems, has been appointed as Central Districts’ assistant …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

FIFA is ‘the galacticos of corruption’, says former official

LONDON – A former FIFA official has accused the international football’s governing body of being “the galacticos of corruption”.

Mel Brennan, a delegate for North America at the 2002 World Cup, also described the voting for the 2018 World Cup as “not credible”.

“The mistake people make with FIFA – the galacticos of corruption – is …. Source article  : FIFA is ‘the galacticos of corruption’, says former official.

Nonito Donaire Defeats Wladimir Sidorenko

ANAHEIM (GaeaTimes.com)- Much anticipated World Boxing Association’s bantamweight champion ship turned out to be highly entertaining thriller for the audience as the fighters gave in their best effort to win the title. Nonito Donaire, the Filipino professional boxer and Wladimir Sidorenko former WBA world bantamweight champion faced each other last night where the former … Original article on : Nonito Donaire Defeats Wladimir Sidorenko.

Lance Berkman Signs Deal With St. Louis Cardinals

ST. LOUIS (GaeaTimes.com)- Five-time All-Star Lance Berkman signed an $8 million contract with the St. Louis Cardinals on Saturday which would be valid for a period of one year. Despite the fact that the 34-year-old former New York Yankees player has made his presence felt at the first base for the last few seasons, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Lance Berkman Signs Deal With St. Louis Cardinals.

Stephan Bonnar Back Again

LAS VEGAS (GaeaTimes.com)- Stephan Bonnar was seen making a comeback after a long time after the decision went in his favor at the “The Ultimate Fighter 12 Finale”. Audience witnessed the mixed martial artist’s comeback after three straight losses that he suffered in the the season ranging from 2009 to early 2010. It seemed that … Read more : Stephan Bonnar Back Again.

BCS National Championship Clashers are Finalized

ATLANTA (GaeaTimes.com)- The two teams that would qualify for the BCS National Championship have been finalized yesterday, with the victory of Auburn Tigers over South Carolina with the score of 56-17, and the victory of the Oregon Ducks over Oregon State with a score of 37-20. The two winning teams, Auburn Tigers, with BCS … Original source on Gaea Times at : BCS National Championship Clashers are Finalized.

Putin asks Abramovich to ‘open his wallet’ to help fund 2018 World Cup

LONDON – Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin has said that billionaire Roman Abramovich should “open his wallet” and help pay for the 2018 World Cup being hosted by his country.

The Chelsea’s owner is expected to take a leading role and invest heavily as Russia hosts the football World Cup.

Abramovich was a prominent member of Moscow’s … Read more »».

No more easy money for New Zealand players in IPL 4

WELLINGTON – The era of New Zealand cricketers earning easy money in the Indian Premier League might end, as the IPL franchisees are deciding to cut back on the number of foreign players.

When the IPL competition was introduced, it was seen as a lucrative short-term earner for the Black Caps, but now only the elite … Read more »».

‘On fire’ Lee dismisses Ashes comeback calls

SYDNEY – Fast bowler Brett Lee has dismissed any chance of an emergency return to Test cricket to inject a lethal sting into Australia’s maligned Ashes attack.

Lee, who had retired from the longer version of the game to focus on the one-day and Twenty20 arenas, has regained his groove by rediscovering his frightening pace in … Read this article on Gaea Times at : ‘On fire’ Lee dismisses Ashes comeback calls.

Auburn VS South Carolina Updates

GEORGIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Its time for big celebrations in the Auburn camp. Yes this is what the team and the ardent fans of the Auburn Tigers have been doing after their last match vs South Carolina Gamecocks. After all, the Auburn Tigers have gone to claim the SEC Championship, after they defeated South Carolina Gamecocks last … Read more : Auburn VS South Carolina Updates.

Apple Cup Score: Huskies Victorious

WASHINGTON D.C (GaeaTimes.com)- It was a great day for the University of Washington Huskies, as they bagged the Apple Cup 2010 against Washington State Cougars, with a final score of 35-28. The match was a tough competition marked by a constant oscillation between the two teams, in all the four quarters. The match ended … Read more >>>.

Time professionals ran Indian sport: Shooter Ronjan Sodhi

NEW DELHI – India’s top shooter Ronjan Sodhi wants national sports federations (NSFs) to take a cue from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in aggressively marketing their sports and running them professionally.

Sodhi, who won individual gold and team bronze in double trap at the Guangzhou Asian Games, feels that it …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Time professionals ran Indian sport: Shooter Ronjan Sodhi.

IPL Kochi’s fate likely to be decided today

MUMBAI – Suspense over the fate of the Indian Premier League (IPL) Kochi franchise will finally end as the Governing Council meets here today to take a decision on the issue.

The Governing Council had last week deferred its decision on the franchisee for the third time, after the investors reached a last-minute shareholding agreement.

Barely seven … Read more >>.

Sachin a god in cricketing world: Bapu Nadkarni

KOLKATA – Former Indian left arm spinner Bapu Nadkarni rates Sachin Tendulkar as “god in the world of cricket” and says he himself would have run out of strategies while bowling to the batting genius.

“Legends are not born but made, and when it comes to Sachin Tendulkar, he is a god in the world …. Read the original article  : here.

Haider’s threats to expose corrupt worries PCB

KARACHI – Runaway Pakistani wicketkeeper Zulqarnain Haider’s threats to expose Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) officials involved in corruption has left the cricketing fraternity in the country worried.

Following the bizarre episode in which Haider had disappeared from his team hotel in Dubai, only to resurface in London and seek asylum there, the PCB had terminated Haider’s …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Haider’s threats to expose corrupt worries PCB.

England edge closer to Adelaide Test win

ADELAIDE – Kevin Pietersen claimed a key wicket with the last ball of day four following his earlier heroics with the bat to give England real encouragement in their pursuit of victory in the second Ashes Test in Adelaide.

Pietersen, who scored a career-best Test score of 227 to help England reach 620-5 declared, struck with … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : England edge closer to Adelaide Test win.

FIFA’s voting panel should have been given bid money directly: Blackpool boss Holloway

LONDON – Blackpool coach-cum-manager Ian Holloway believes the 15 million pounds England’s FA spent on the country’s disastrous 2018 World Cup bid could have brought a more fruitful result if it had been given direct to FIFA’s voting panel.

Holloway admitted he was seething after seeing the events unfold in Zurich this week, when England’s bid …. Source article  : FIFA’s voting panel should have been given bid money directly: Blackpool boss Holloway.

Pietersen is destined to be England’s first great cricketer since Botham: Roebuck

SYDNEY – England batsman Kevin Pietersen’s true destiny is to become his adopted country’s first great cricketer since Ian Botham, according to noted cricket commentator Peter Roebuck.

Pietersen struck a double century as England built a massive 375-run first innings lead over Australia in the ongoing second Ashes Test in Adelaide.

The 30-year-old scored 227 off 308 …. Source  : Pietersen is destined to be England’s first great cricketer since Botham: Roebuck.

Eboue lands himself in marital doghouse after dancing at Drogba’s charity do

LONDON – Arsenal striker Emmanuel Eboue has landed in the doghouse over the weekend for being one players found dancing with a woman they shouldn’t have.

Eboue was caught on stage at a Nicole Scherzinger gig at a plush black tie bash on Saturday night.

According to The Sun, the married Premier League star was in …. Source  : Eboue lands himself in marital doghouse after dancing at Drogba’s charity do.

Australia hasn’t been able to sustain pressure on England: Watson

ADELAIDE – Australian all-rounder Shane Watson has admitted that his team’s bowlers must put in a better performance as a unit if they have to comeback against England in the ongoing Ashes series.

“The wickets have been fairly flat, but that’s no excuse. We’re skilled enough to make the most of what’s out there. …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Australia hasn’t been able to sustain pressure on England: Watson.

Aware of Putin’s missive, Abramovich may pay up for Russia, not Chelsea

LONDON – With Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin making it clear that he expects his country’s oligarchs to contribute handsomely to the 30 billion pound expenses expected for the 2018 FIFA World Cup, there is a possibility of Roman Abramovich giving up his stake in Chelsea FC.

According to The Sun, Abramovich is still celebrating Russia …. Read the original article  : Aware of Putin’s missive, Abramovich may pay up for Russia, not Chelsea.

2011 World Cup is not beyond ’struggling’ Kiwis: Vaughan

AUCKLAND – New Zealand Cricket (NZC) Chief Executive Justin Vaughan is confident that the Black Caps can win next year’s World Cup being held in the Indian subcontinent despite their ninth one-day loss on the trot.

New Zealand lost their third one-day against India at Vadodara’s Reliance Stadium by nine-wickets, which saw the tourists going down … Read this article on Gaea Times at : 2011 World Cup is not beyond ’struggling’ Kiwis: Vaughan.

Vettori urges Black Caps to ’stay positive’ despite India ODI series loss

VADODARA – New Zealand captain Daniel Vettori is playing the ’stay positive’ card after his side slumped 0-3 down in the five match one-day series against India.

New Zealand lost the third match of the series at Vadodara’s Reliance Stadium by nine-wickets, which follows the 40 run defeat in the first match at Guwahati and …. Original article  : Vettori urges Black Caps to ’stay positive’ despite India ODI series loss.

UK-based bookmaker denies reported ‘Haye scam’

LONDON – Britain’s leading bookmaker, Betfred, has denied suggestions that WBA world heavyweight champion David Haye had engineered a betting coup during his knockout win over 2000 Sydney Olympics gold medallist Audley Harrison.

Haye retained his crown after the ‘Battle of Britain’ at Manchester’s MEN Arena in November.

However, conspiracy theorists were out in force after Haye …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Is Becks trying to hide his bald patch?

LONDON – It seems soccer ace David Beckham is facing a new battle after World Cup loss – a thinning hairline.

An unflattering angle during coverage of the vote on BBC News showed Beckham is thinning on top.

The 35-year-old sported longer hair in Zurich, where he was acting as an ambassador for England’s bid with … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Is Becks trying to hide his bald patch?.

Kiwis need a string of wins to turn poor one-day form around: Richardson

AUCKLAND – Former New Zealand cricketer Mark Richardson reckons that the Black Caps don’t just need a win, but they need a string of wins to turn their poor one-day form around.

New Zealand, who are currently 0-3 down in the ongoing five match one-day series against India, has equalled their second worst one-day run of …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Kiwis need a string of wins to turn poor one-day form around: Richardson.

Cricket South Africa says sorry over announcing Gibbs contract end prematurely

Johannesburg (S. Africa), – Cricket South Africa has formally apologized to former opener Herschelle Gibbs for the way they prematurely announced the end of his contract.

Cricket South Africa had issued a press release stating that Gibbs’ contract had been cancelled, but its officials were forced to apologize two days later. A joint statement with Gibbs …. Source article  : Cricket South Africa says sorry over announcing Gibbs contract end prematurely.

Ancelotti says feeling the heat to save his Blues job

LONDON – Italian-born coach-cum-manager Carlo Ancelotti has admitted for the first time he is feeling the strain of trying to save his job at Chelsea FC.
Champions Chelsea has tumbled from the top to third position in the Premier League after a depressing run of just one win in six games.

The Blues boss accepts his … Read more >>>.

Don’t blame pitches for Australia’s woes in Ashes series: Gabba curator

BRISBANE – Gabba curator Kevin Mitchell insists that the pitches on offer for the Ashes series are not responsible for the Ricky Ponting-led Australian team’s woes.

The pitch for the Brisbane Test had produced 624 runs for the loss of just two wickets on the last two days of the match, but Mitchell reckons … Original article on : Don’t blame pitches for Australia’s woes in Ashes series: Gabba curator.

England FA sees Tottenham boss Redknapp as one of Capello’s successors

LONDON – The Football Association in England has publicly confirmed for the first time that they fancy Tottenham Hotspur boss Harry Redknapp as current England coach Fabio Capello’s successor.

The Sun quoted FA chief executive Alex Horne, as saying: “Harry Redknapp is a great manager. Tottenham are playing great football and to qualify well for … Original article on : England FA sees Tottenham boss Redknapp as one of Capello’s successors.

Fuming Tevez takes on Man City boss Mancini over being subbed

LONDON – Argentine star Carlos Tevez has exploded with Manchester City manager-cum-coach Roberto Mancini for subbing him too often.

According to The Sun, Mancini took off his skipper for the 11th time this season against Bolton, leading to Tevez expressing his unhappiness with the Italian in the 90th minute of City’s 1-0 victory.

“Carlos isn’t happy he … Original source on Gaea Times at : Fuming Tevez takes on Man City boss Mancini over being subbed.

Shaun Marcum Heading For Milwaukee Brewers?

LAKE BUENA VISTA (GaeaTimes.com)- The buzz in the baseball circle has it that Toronto Blue Jays starting pitcher Shaun Marcum is likely to be sent to the Milwaukee Brewers. This is the latest news that has come up in the Major League Baseball’s Winter meetings circle. Although the winter meeting is slated to begin today … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Shaun Marcum Heading For Milwaukee Brewers?.

Sunday of home wins leaves Villarreal, Espanyol well placed

MADRID – A Sunday of home wins in the Spanish football league has left Villarreal and Espanyol third and fourth in the standings.

Villarreal beat Sevilla 1-0 and Espanyol overcame lowly Sporting Gijon by the same score.
Once again, Villarreal were invigorated by young strikers Nilmar and Guiseppe Rossi, both of whom are in …. Read the original article  : Sunday of home wins leaves Villarreal, Espanyol well placed.

Gator Bowl To Hit On January 1

JACKSONVILLE (GaeaTimes.com)- The Gator Bowl, through an unanimous voting, decided to invite Mississippi State University and Michigan to play for them on January 1. This came up as a big new for all the fans of Mississippi as for the first time since 1998, they will be starting the year with a Bowl game. …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

I wouldn’t date a footballer again, says ex-WAG Lauren McDonald

LONDON – Rangers star Maurice Edu ex-girlfriend Lauren McDonald has revealed how her life was turned into hell as a footballer’s girl.

Stunning hair stylist Lauren, from Anniesland, Glasgow, and Edu, got together at the beginning of this year after being introduced by a mutual friend.

“I didn’t know who he was, …. Read the original article  : I wouldn’t date a footballer again, says ex-WAG Lauren McDonald.

Despite poor ratings, Shane Warne bags Logies nomination

MELBOURNE – Despite being on air for just two weeks and receiving poor ratings, Shane Warne has managed to bag a Logie nomination.

The former cricketer made a late entry onto the list of nominees for the TV Week’s Logie Awards for the most popular [..] Read the original article: here.

Katich suffers achilles tendon injury, forcing him out of Ashes series

SYDNEY – Australia’s opening batsman Simon Katich suffered an achilles tendon injury during Australia’s crushing second Test loss to England in Adelaide.

Katich has been ruled out of the remainder of the Ashes series and at the age of 35 he realises his battle to win back his …. Source  : Katich suffers achilles tendon injury, forcing him out of Ashes series.

Patriots Vs Jets Match Ends With 45-3

FOXBOROUGH (GaeaTimes.com)- The Jets vs Patriots match recorded the fifth largest margin of victory in the history of the latter, while it also gave them the lead in the AFC East to head them towards the final quarter of the season. The victory of the New England Patriots over the New York Jets with … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Patriots Vs Jets Match Ends With 45-3.

India chose to field against New Zealand

BANGALORE – India won the toss and decided to field against New Zealand in the fourth One-day International here Tuesday.

India has already taken an unbeatable 3-0 lead in the five match series.
… Read more »».

Wasim urges Pak cricket fans, media to ‘back national team to win World Cup 2011???

LAHORE – Former Pakistan cricket captain Wasim Akram has urged players, fans and the media to move on from the recent problems plaguing Pakistan cricket, and back the country to win the World Cup 2011, though he tipped India as favourites to win the mega event.

“Let’s forget what problems we’ve been going through recently and … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Wasim urges Pak cricket fans, media to ‘back national team to win World Cup 2011′.

Josh McDaniels Fired

ENGLEWOOD (GaeaTimes.com)- In what has come as huge shock to the NFL fraternity, Denver Broncos head coach Josh McDaniels was terminated by team owner Pat Bowlen on Monday. The 34-year-old coach who was hired by the Denver Broncos in the month of January last year, was fired from his position with two years left … Read more >>.

Broad ruled out of Ashes series due to abdominal injury

LONDON – England fast bowler Stuart Broad has sustained a torn abdominal muscle injury during the fourth day of the Adelaide Test, which will keep him out of the rest of the Ashes series.

England medical officer Nick Peirce said the nature of the injury meant Broad would be ruled out of the rest of the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Sour Oz fans tweet out their frustrations over team’s Ashes tumble

ADELAIDE – Angry and desperate Australians took to Twitter to vent their feelings following their national team’s humiliating Ashes innings and 71 run defeat to England at the Adelaide Oval on Tuesday.

According to the Sydney Morning Herald, many want players who are not performing to be dropped, including captain Ricky Ponting. Others said they longed …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Sour Oz fans tweet out their frustrations over team’s Ashes tumble.

Ian Chappell, Botham renew their grudge in Adelaide Oval car park scuffle

ADELAIDE – Australian cricket legend Ian Chappell and Englishmen Sir Ian Botham renewed a 30-year-old grudge, when they had to be separated after having a dispute in the car park outside the Adelaide Oval after the fourth day’s play of the second Ashes Test.

According to the Daily News, their Sky and Channel 9 colleagues intervened …. Original source  : Ian Chappell, Botham renew their grudge in Adelaide Oval car park scuffle.

All eyes on Rooney’s roving eye on showgirl-filled Christmas bash

LONDON – Manchester United is throwing an official Christmas bash for its players and everyone would be keen to know how Wayne Rooney averts his eyes from showgirls.

The club is hosting a James Bond themed do at Old Trafford with the title of A Night In Monte Carlo and there’ll be casino tables, ice sculptures …. Read the original article  : All eyes on Rooney’s roving eye on showgirl-filled Christmas bash.

Ranji Trophy: Pressure on Tamil Nadu against Mumbai

CHENNAI – Tamil Nadu would be praying for divine benevolence by way of dry weather over the next four days when they take on leaders Mumbai in a crucial Group A match of the Ranji Trophy Super League here Wednesday.

With their previous two games here being washed out, Tamil Nadu are on 11 points …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Pakistani cricketers will again be kept out of IPL

KARACHI – Pakistan’s cricketers will be kept out of the upcoming edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) because of a spot-fixing scandal that has dogged Pakistan cricket in recent months, sources said.

According to sources in the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), IPL organisers have decided against clearing the return of Pakistan’s cricketers … Read more : Pakistani cricketers will again be kept out of IPL.

‘Domineering’ England hands Australia their first Ashes innings defeat in 24 years

MELBOURNE – England handed Australia their first defeat by an innings in an Ashes Test for 24 years, and claimed a 1-0 lead in the series on the final day of the Adelaide Test on Tuesday.

England last claimed an innings victory in an Ashes series when they won the fourth Test of the 1986-1987 …. Source  : ‘Domineering’ England hands Australia their first Ashes innings defeat in 24 years.

Don Meredith Passes Away At 72

SANTA FE (GaeaTimes.com)- Don Meredith popularly known as “Dandy Don” passed away on Sunday at Santa Fe, New Mexico. He was 72. The former Dallas Cowboys quarterback lost his life after suffering a brain hemorrhage followed by his battle with coma. The cause for his death was revealed by his lawyer Lisa Fine Moses. Don …. Read the original article  : here.

Isn’t it time to invest in Indian sportspersons? (Comment)

Amid all the negative news of corruption, scams and tape leaks over the last few weeks there was some cheer in the performance of the Indian squad in Guangzhou, where young athletes competed, won medals and received a rousing welcome on their return home. The homecoming – from Gurusarsahai and Bhiwani in the north to …. Source article  : Isn’t it time to invest in Indian sportspersons? (Comment).

Barca trio Iniesta, Messi, Xavi in race for Ballon d’Or award

PARIS – Spanish midfielders Andres Iniesta and Xavi and Argentina’s Lionel Messi have been chosen as the candidates for the 2010 Ballon d’Or award as best player of the year.

The trio – all from Spanish champions Barcelona – were announced Monday at the headquarters of the sports daily L’Equipe in Paris after being selected … Read more >>>.

Marion Jones says she didn’t deserve prison

LONDON – Disgraced sprinter Marion Jones said she didn’t deserve a prison term in connection with a doping affair and didn’t know she was using performance-enhancing substances at the time.

Jones, 35, told BBC that she considered the ruling by a US court too harsh because her personal trouble was enough punishment.
“I know I …. Read the original article  : here.

Myanmar junta considered Manchester United takeover

LONDON – Myanmar’s military junta considered making a billion-dollar bid to buy Manchester United, it has emerged.

A cable sent from the US embassy in Yangon, made public by WikiLeaks, said Than Shwe, commander-in-chief of the armed forces, was urged to mount a takeover by his grandson shortly after the UN criticised the junta for …. Original article  : Myanmar junta considered Manchester United takeover.

Webber drove last four F1 races with shoulder fracture

LONDON – Mark Webber drove the last four races of the Formula One season with a broken shoulder, the Red Bull driver has revealed.

The 34-year-old Australian sustained the injury in a mountain bike accident, BBC Sport reported Monday.
Webber kept the injury secret from team principal Christian Horner, telling only his physiotherapist Roger Cleary … Read more »»».

Ashes debacle: Hilditch and Co need face hard truth and come up with answers: SMH

SYDNEY – Australia’s selectors must draw a line in the sand and overhaul their plans and the players chosen to deliver for them in the ongoing Ashes series.

According to the Sydney Morning Herald, the Ashes are all but gone, and there is no evidence …. Read the original article  : here.

PCB should have stood by tainted trio until they were proven guilty: Mani

ISLAMABAD – Former International Cricket Council (ICC) President Ehsan Mani has hit out at the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for giving a cold shoulder to the cricketers suspended over the ’spot-fixing’ scandal.

“I would think the PCB should [..] Read the original article: here.

Jimmy V Classic Updates

NEW YORK CITY (GaeaTimes.com)- It was celebration time for all those Syracuse Orange fans present at the Madison Square Garden at New York City on Tuesday night as the Orange men defeated the Michigan State Spartans. The No. 8 Syracuse Orange ousted the No.7 Michigan State Spartans by a score of 72-58 in the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Jimmy V Classic Updates.

On current form, Aussies would be lucky to beat even Bangladesh: SMH

SYDNEY – The clouds of despair have engulfed Australian cricket in the wake of defeat in the Adelaide Test, so much so, that cricket pundits are of the view that on evidence of performance currently shown, Ricky Ponting’s side would even find it hard to beat Bangladesh.

A Sydney Morning Herald report has said that while …. Read the original article  : here.

‘I’m flattered people want me to play in Ashes,’ says Warne

MELBOURNE – Bowling legend Shane Warne has thanked his supporters who have urged him to come out of retirement after Australia’s Ashes campaign suffered a crushing blow in the Adelaide Test.

Australian people and sports writers have tried to cajole Warne out of retirement to save the cricket team in its hour of need.

England secured victory … Read more »»».

Ponting slips to 25th place in ICC rankings

MELBOURNE – Ricky Ponting has dropped out of the top 20 in the International Cricket Council (ICC) Test batting rankings for the first time since 2001 after Australia’s crushing defeat by England in Adelaide.

Ashes holders England won the second Test at the Adelaide Oval by the huge margin of an innings and 71 runs to …. Read the original article  : Ponting slips to 25th place in ICC rankings.

Ancelotti refuses to rest Chelsea players

LONDON – Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti has refused to rest his players and wants his strongest team to play Marseille tonight.

With qualification for the next round of the Champions League already assured, senior stars including John Terry, Michael Essien, Petr Cech and Florent Malouda were all expecting to give the Marseille tie a miss …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Nasri is the new Thierry Henry: Wenger

LONDON – Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has hailed his striker Samir Nasri as the new Thierry Henry, and claimed he has the talent to follow the Arsenal legend as Footballer of the Year.

Nasri took his season’s goal scoring tally into double figures with during Saturday’s 2-1 win over Fulham, which lifted the Gunners to … Read more >>>.

Warne asks Oz selectors to consider Beer for Perth Test

SYDNEY – Australian cricket legend Shane Warne has asked the selectors to consider the local knowledge of West Australian left-arm spinner Michael Beer for the critical third Ashes Test in Perth.

Beer (26) has bowled decently in his five first-class matches for the Warriors, taking 16 wickets at an average of 39.93.

Describing the unfortunate Xavier Doherty …. Read the original article  : Warne asks Oz selectors to consider Beer for Perth Test.

Lesser England lights being put through their paces in hope of replacing hurt Broad

ADELAIDE – England fast bowling coach David Saker has taken captain Andrew Strauss’s missive of putting the foot on the pedal and not letting the Australians in to heart, as he is now preparing the second stringers in the squad for possible inclusion in the Perth …. Read the original article  : Lesser England lights being put through their paces in hope of replacing hurt Broad.

Hameed to lodge complaint against NOTW for implicating him in ’spot-fixing’ scandal

KARACHI – Discarded Pakistan batsman Yasir Hameed will soon lodge a complaint with the Press Complaints Commission of England against British tabloid News of the World (NOTW) for implicating him in a ’spot-fixing’ scandal.

“I have advised him to first submit a complaint with the Press Complaints …. Original article  : Hameed to lodge complaint against NOTW for implicating him in ’spot-fixing’ scandal.

Mani says ICC Chief Executive’s Pak ’spot-fixing’ remarks uncalled for

ISLAMABAD – Former International Cricket Council (ICC) President Ehsan Mani has lashed out at ICC Chief Executive Haroon Lorgat for saying that he would be “disappointed” if the Pakistani players implicated in the ’spot-fixing’ case were acquitted.

Mani said that the case was … Read : Mani says ICC Chief Executive’s Pak ’spot-fixing’ remarks uncalled for.

Kaymer, McDowell make golfing history

BERLIN – Martin Kaymer and Graeme McDowell have made golfing history by becoming the first joint winners of the Race to Dubai European Tour Golfer of the Year award, the organisers said.

The panel of judges – comprising members of the golf media – could not separate the two golfers and for the first time …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Sampras shocked by trophy theft from locked storage units

LOS ANGELES – Tennis legend Pete Sampras has revealed that a lifetime of trophies have been stolen from two locked and secured storage units, where they were being stored during a change of home.

The 39-year-old told the Los Angeles Times the unexplained theft occurred last month in west Los Angeles.
“Losing this stuff is …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Sampras shocked by trophy theft from locked storage units.

Untraceable Haider’s legal team withdraws from UK asylum case

LONDON – Runaway former Pakistan wicketkeeper Zulqarnain Haider’s problems have deepened after his legal team in London decided that they would no longer be representing him in his UK asylum case.

“The reason is simple. We have tried unsuccessfully to get in touch with him for the past few days, left him messages and so …. Original article  : Untraceable Haider’s legal team withdraws from UK asylum case.

Derrell Johnson-Koulianos Suspended After Arrest

IOWA (GaeaTimes.com)- Derrell Johnson-Koulianos, the wide receiver of Iowa Hawkeyes college football team was arrested on Tuesday on multiple counts of possessing controlled substance, two counts of illegitimate possession of prescription drugs and also for keeping a drug house. Following his arrest, the coach of his team Kirk Ferentz has announced that the [..] Read the original article: here.

Australian cricket, a product of rampant self-indulgence: Roebuck

SYDNEY – As Australia limps off to lick its wounds after its innings and 71 run defeat to England in the second Ashes Test in Adelaide, noted cricket columnist Peter Roebuck says the selectors will be busy sharpening their knives to prevent their own heads from being put on the block.

In his syndicated column for … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Australian cricket, a product of rampant self-indulgence: Roebuck.

Australia defeated in Ashes Test, but rise to fourth in ICC Test rankings

ADELAIDE – Amid the doom and gloom of the humiliating second Test defeat to England in Adelaide yesterday, a strange light is shining on Australia – they have risen to fourth in the International Cricket Council (ICC) Test rankings.

The jump came after Sri Lanka drew a three-Test series at home to the lowly West Indies, … Read more »».

Yusuf Pathan Dashes New Zealand Hopes

BANGALORE, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- India denied New Zealand their best chance of victory in the fourth ODI Bangalore thanks to a trailblazing century from Yusuf Pathan. The hard hitter scored 123* in just 96 balls and the knock included 7 fours and 7 sixes. Coming down to bat quite early on (20th over) Yusuf … Read : Yusuf Pathan Dashes New Zealand Hopes.

Afridi backs Akram’s call for early announcement of 2011 Pak World Cup squad

LAHORE – Pakistan’s ODI captain Shahid Afridi has backed Wasim Akram’s views that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) must announce the 2011 World Cup squad as soon as possible.

“We need to start working soon with the bunch of players who make the World Cup, as it is a very important tournament and I don’t want … Original source on Gaea Times at : Afridi backs Akram’s call for early announcement of 2011 Pak World Cup squad.

Clive Rice tips India to win Test series

JOHANNESBURG – Former South Africa captain Clive Rice finds India a more balanced side than the current Proteas team and has picked the visitors to win the Test series beginning Dec 16.

Rice feels that India’s variety in bowling makes them favourites for the three Test series.
“The Indians have a well-balanced … Read : Clive Rice tips India to win Test series.

England reacted like “bad losers” after failing to win WC bid: Blatter

LONDON – Rejecting allegations of corruption at soccer’s governing body, FIFA president Sepp Blatter has said that England reacted like “bad losers” after failing to win the bid to host the 2018 World Cup.

Russia and Qatar won the right to host the 2018 and 2022 World Cups

“To be honest, I was surprised by all … Read more »».

Swann fails to get drink-drive charge dismissed in court

LONDON – England spinner Graeme Swann has failed in a bid to have a drink-drive charge dismissed in the court.

Swann’s lawyer tried to have the case dismissed on a legal technicality, but a judge ruled that it should go ahead.

An earlier hearing was told police stopped the cricketer in the early hours near …. Original article  : Swann fails to get drink-drive charge dismissed in court.

Flower gambles by allowing Anderson to return home for childbirth

LONDON – England head coach Andy Flower has admitted that allowing Jimmy Anderson to return home for the birth of his child is a big gamble.

Flower said Anderson might be affected by two round-the-world flights in five days.

Stuart Broad, England’s other new-ball bowler, has already been ruled out of the Ashes series with …. Read the original article  : here.

Defiant Ponting vows to fight on past World Cup

SYDNEY – Ricky Ponting has defiantly vowed to fight on as Australia’s Test cricket captain despite facing the possibility of his third Ashes drubbing since taking over from Steve Waugh.

Once an almost immovable force in the Australian batting line-up, Ponting has scored just one century in his past 33 Test innings and registered single figures … Read more >>>.

Pak team “must improve in fielding and fitness”: Intikhab

KARACHI – Fielding and physical fitness are the key areas that Pakistan cricket team needs to be improve upon, team manager Intikhab Alam has said.

“What we witnessed during the last series against South Africa was not up to par…we would like to focus on those areas,” the Dawn quoted Intikhab, as saying to a news …. Read the original article  : here.

Warnie looks after me in Melbourne, just as Sachin and Ganguly do in India: Pietersen

MELBOURNE – England batsman Kevin Pietersen has said that he is looked after by former Australian leg-spinner Shane Warne in Melbourne, in the same way as Indian batting maestro Sachin Tendulkar does in Mumbai or former Indian skipper Sourav Ganguly does in Kolkata.

Pietersen’s comments come after he was fined 239 dollars for being busted speeding … Read : Warnie looks after me in Melbourne, just as Sachin and Ganguly do in India: Pietersen.

Pietersen fined 239 dollars for speeding in Lamborghini organised by Warne

MELBOURNE – England batsman Kevin Pietersen has been fined 239 dollars after being busted speeding in a 475,000 dollar Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4, organised by former Australian leg-spinner Shane Warne, in Melbourne.

Pietersen was nabbed by a police officer using a laser speed detector.

According to the Herald Sun, the 30-year-old was allegedly travelling at 121km/h in a …. Read the original article  : here.

Bowlers’ fitness will be key to our success, says Dravid

CAPE TOWN – India’s premier batsman Rahul Dravid believes his team’s pace attack, provided they remain fit, will give the visitors a good chance of winning its maiden Test series on South Africa soil.

The battle between top-ranked India and number two South Africa kicks off with the first Test at the … Read : Bowlers’ fitness will be key to our success, says Dravid.

Ashes 2010: Surrey manager backs ’softie’ Tremlett to rough up Australia

SURREY – Surrey cricket team manager Chris Adams is backing fast bowler Chris Tremlett, labelled a “gentle giant” and a “softie” to rough up Australia during the remaining three Tests of the Ashes series.

Adams said Tremlett should not be underestimated simply because he is not the type to shout in batsmen’s faces.

Adams is backing … Read more >>>.

Ashes 2010: Prior warns Poms not to peak too early

MELBOURNE – England wicketkeeper Matt Prior has warned the Poms not to peak too early in their push for the Ashes in Australia.

Prior appealed to his teammates to avoid premature back slapping, and maintain the present work ethic to ensure that the urn stayed with England.

England has a 1-0 lead in the five-match series with …. Read the original article  : here.

PCB to hold anti-corruption seminars and workshops as part of reform process

LAHORE – The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) will hold anti-corruption seminars and workshops this month to educate players and officials belonging to the regional and departmental teams about the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) anti-corruption code of conduct.

“The move is a part of the reforms being carried out by the PCB to improve the enforcement …. Source  : PCB to hold anti-corruption seminars and workshops as part of reform process.

‘Good to have Miandad back’: Intikhab

LAHORE – Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Director General Javed Miandad will fulfil his new role as the national team’s batting consultant with “enthusiasm and passion”, team manager Intikhab Alam has said.

“It is good to have him back. He has been given a job and I am sure he will fulfil it with enthusiasm and passion,” …. Read the original article  : ‘Good to have Miandad back’: Intikhab.

ICC interrogates Waqar, Afridi as part of evidence building process in spot-fixing case

LAHORE – The International Cricket Council’s (ICC) Anti-Corruption and Security Unit has recorded the statements of Pakistan coach Waqar Younis, One-day International captain Shahid Afridi and team security manager Colonel Khawaja Najam as part of its evidence building process in the spot-fixing case.

“The statements of these three Pakistan team members are part of the evidence … Read more >>.

Oz young brigade unfit for challenges of big stage cricket: Roebuck

SYDNEY – Noted cricket commentator Peter Roebuck believes that the ‘next generation’ of cricketers in Australia have ‘fluffed its lines’ and are not worthy of inclusion in the Ashes squad.

“Australia cannot afford the luxury of putting potential ahead of achievement. Among the proven, Shaun Marsh has been scoring runs at the top of the order … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Oz young brigade unfit for challenges of big stage cricket: Roebuck.

Swann better than Warne at this stage of his career

LONDON – England spinner Graeme Swann has a better start to his Test career than Aussie legend Shane Warne with 122 wickets from his first 26 Tests compared to the great man’s 116 at the same stage.

England head coach Andy Flower, who used to play against Swann, had no idea at that point of time … Read more »»».

Australia’s lost ‘aura’ would return if Warne comes out of retirement: Flintoff

MELBOURNE – Former England all-rounder Andrew Flintoff has said Australia is not in a position to win a Test without the help of Shane Warne, and has asked the legendary leg-spinner to consider coming out of retirement.

Assessing his one-time Ashes rivals, Flintoff said that the Australian cricket side is in “disarray” and won’t recover unless …. Original article  : Australia’s lost ‘aura’ would return if Warne comes out of retirement: Flintoff.

Miandad formally takes up ‘Pak team batting consultant’ role

LAHORE – Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Director General Javed Miandad has joined the national cricket team’s training camp, which started on December 8 at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, in preparation for the upcoming tour of New Zealand.

With his joining, Miandad has accepted the PCB’s offer to work as a batting and fielding consultant with the … Read more : Miandad formally takes up ‘Pak team batting consultant’ role.

Ashes 2010: England has power, poise to win series 3-0, says Fletcher

CHENNAI – Former England cricket team coach Duncan Fletcher, who is currently attached with the New Zealand squad as a consultant, has said England has the power and poise to nail Australia three games to nil in the ongoing Ashes series.

In an article for The Guardian, Fletcher said that after going up one nil at … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Ashes 2010: England has power, poise to win series 3-0, says Fletcher.

Marsh, not Hughes should open for Australia in Perth Test: Arthur

SYDNEY – Former South Africa coach Mickey Arthur has said that talented batsman Shaun Marsh should open the batting for Australia in the third Test ahead of the out-of-form Phillip Hughes.

Arthur, now coaching Weatern Australia, said Marsh was the equal of South African batsman A.B. de Villiers, who is ranked fifth in the International Cricket …. Source article  : Marsh, not Hughes should open for Australia in Perth Test: Arthur.

Will Cliff Lee Play For Texas Rangers?

ARLINGTON (GaeaTimes.com)- The Texas Rangers are simply hell bent on stopping their pitcher Cliff Lee from shifting to the New York Yankees. Yes this is why Chuck Greenberg, owner of Texas Rangers flew straight to Arkansas on Thursday to offer some handsome deals to Cliff Lee. The Texas Rangers fear that Cliff Lee might join … Read more : Will Cliff Lee Play For Texas Rangers?.

Lee Corso Head Found Back

HARRISBURG (GaeaTimes.com)- The giant mascot head of broadcaster and ESPN football analyst Lee Corso was recovered Monday morning after it had gone missing earlier on Saturday. The head was found back by an Oregon State University employee, who then informed the police. Two former University of Oregon students have been accused of the theft
The Oregon … Original article on : Lee Corso Head Found Back.

Kiwis win toss, opt to bat in fifth ODI

CHENNAI – New Zealand won the toss and decided to bat first in the fifth and final One-day-International against India here Friday.

Left-arm seamer Andy Mckay made way for all-rounder Grant Elliot in the New Zealand side, while Munaf Patel came in for Zaheer Khan in the Indian eleven.
Teams:
New Zealand: Daniel Vettori (captain), … Read more >>>.

Blues mates must pull up socks if they don’t want to lose title: Terry

LONDON – Chelsea skipper John Terry has ordered his teammates to pull themselves together before they hand over the Premier League title on a plate to Manchester United or Arsenal.

Expressing concern over the club’s dramatic loss of form, Terry admitted that he could not recall a worse run of results during his 11 years in … Read : Blues mates must pull up socks if they don’t want to lose title: Terry.

Johnson doesn’t deserve to be brought back into Oz team: Lawson

SYDNEY – Fast bowler Mitchell Johnson does not deserve to be brought back into the Australian Ashes team after being left out of the squad for the Adelaide Test, said former pacer and Pakistan coach Geoff Lawson.

Pacers Johnson and Ben Hilfenhaus, who both missed selection in Australia’s XI in Adelaide, have been included in the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Johnson doesn’t deserve to be brought back into Oz team: Lawson.

Hughes will make England pay for taunting him: Langer

MELBOURNE – Australia’s batting coach Justin Langer has backed opener Phillip Hughes to perform in the third Test, and said England will be made to pay for taunting the under-pressure opener.

Hughes was named as a replacement for the injured Simon Katich in the Australian squad in the must-win game starting at the WACA Ground from …. Original source  : Hughes will make England pay for taunting him: Langer.

Gough backs Tremlett to replace injured Broad for Perth Test

LONDON – Former England bowler Darren Gough has backed Chris Tremlett to replace injured Stuart Broad for the third Ashes Test in Perth.

Broad will not be available for the rest of the series after suffering a torn abdominal muscle during the second Test in Adelaide.

Gough said that Tremlett should be brought in ahead of …. Read the original article  : Gough backs Tremlett to replace injured Broad for Perth Test.

England players want to keep breaking records, make history: Prior

LONDON – England wicketkeeper Matt Prior has said the squad wants to keep breaking records and leave a legacy for the future.

Prior said the players have spoken about becoming one of the all-time great teams alongside the West Indies of the 1980s and Australia of the 1990s.

“In this team, we try to target …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : England players want to keep breaking records, make history: Prior.

Capello believes Allardyce or Redknapp can replace him

LONDON – England football manager Fabio Capello has anointed Harry Redknapp and Sam Allardyce as his most likely successors, saying these two were the one who have impressed him the most.

Capello has already said he will leave the post after Euro 2012.

When asked which English managers in the Premier League impressed him the most, his …. Original source  : Capello believes Allardyce or Redknapp can replace him.

Gutted Flintoff heading back to ‘Blighty’ from Dubai to watch favourite soap

LONDON – Former England cricketer Andrew Flintoff may move back to Britain from Dubai because he misses the tram crash special Corrie.

Flintoff moved to Dubai to be well placed for the Indian Premier League Twenty20 matches, but he quit cricket in September because of injury.

Flintoff said he felt wretched after missing the soap’s 50th …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Gutted Flintoff heading back to ‘Blighty’ from Dubai to watch favourite soap.

“Cricket in Pakistan is in a ‘mess’, so is the country”: Imran Khan

NEW DELHI – Pakistan cricket is facing its biggest crisis so far, and the team stands little chance of winning the 2011 World Cup without fast bowlers Mohammad Aamir and Mohammad Asif, former captain Imran Khan has said.

“Cricket in Pakistan faces its biggest crisis and so does the country,” the Daily Times quoted Imran, who … Original article on : “Cricket in Pakistan is in a ‘mess’, so is the country”: Imran Khan.

Kiwis’ top-order must click to ease pressure on ‘free-scoring’ Taylor: Lance Cairns

AUCKLAND – Former New Zealand all-rounder Lance Cairns has said that the Black Caps’ top-order batsmen must deliver to take the pressure off star batsman Ross Taylor in the middle-order.

Taylor has not scored an ODI century in over two years and there has been comment that he needs to lift his act.

“I think the pressure …. Original source  : Kiwis’ top-order must click to ease pressure on ‘free-scoring’ Taylor: Lance Cairns.

It might be bit hard for Warne to jump out from commentary box: Nielsen

PERTH – Australian coach Tim Nielsen has said that leg-spin legend Shane Warne must quickly decide whether to make a sensational comeback in the ongoing Ashes series.

According to reports, Warne has been offered a million dollars to come out of retirement by a Melbourne businessman after Australia lost the Adelaide Test to be 0-1 down …. Read the original article  : It might be bit hard for Warne to jump out from commentary box: Nielsen.

Gatting urges Ponting to walk away from Oz captaincy to prolong Test career

LONDON – Former England batsman Mike Gatting reckons that Australian captain Ricky Ponting can reinvent himself as a batting force and prolong his Test career if he walked away from his captaincy role.

Ponting has hit just one century in his past 33 Test innings, and has scored 70 runs at 23.33 in two …. Source  : Gatting urges Ponting to walk away from Oz captaincy to prolong Test career.

Talks of Warne’s comeback shows Australia in selection panic: Swann

LONDON – England spinner Graeme Swann is confident that Australian cricket legend Shane Warne will not be coming out of retirement, and said that the fact the idea has been brought up, shows Australia are in selection panic after going 1-0 down in the Ashes series.

Speculation that Australia’s all-time leading wicket taker could return to … Original source on Gaea Times at : Talks of Warne’s comeback shows Australia in selection panic: Swann.

Australia’s captaincy can pull Warne out of retirement: Jones

SYDNEY – To rescue the Australia team from another Ashes debacle, Shane Warne could come out of the retirement if he is offered the captaincy, according to cricketer-turned-commentator Dean Jones.

The latest media frenzy has been sparked by a group of businessmen in Melbourne who have offered a million dollars to 41-year-old Warne to come out … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Australia’s captaincy can pull Warne out of retirement: Jones.

Nielsen backs ‘refitted’ Johnson to be Oz Ashes saviour

PERTH – Australian coach Tim Nielsen believes that ‘refitted’ fast bowler Mitchell Johnson has the potential to revive his team’s chances in the ongoing Ashes series.

Australia is currently 0-1 down in the five-match series after losing the second Test in Adelaide by an innings and 71 runs.

Johnson has been working with mentor Troy Cooley …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Legend Jahangir declines Pakistan squash federation offer

KARACHI – Pakistans squash authorities are mulling concrete plans to revive the sport in the country but have so far failed to garner the support of the worlds greatest squash legend — Jahangir Khan.

Jahangir, a record ten-time British Open champion and the most successful squash player in history, has declined an offer made by [..] Read the original article: here.

Ind Vs NZ 5th ODI About To Commence

CHENNAI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- With hours left to go for the start of the 5th and final Ind Vs NZ ODI, it is clear that the visitors will fight tooth and nail to avoid another whitewash. India on the other hand will look to have one of the most comprehensive series wins under their …. Original source  : Ind Vs NZ 5th ODI About To Commence.

Miandad opts out of NZ tour to avoid confusion

KARACHI – Former Pakistan captain and current batting coach Javed Miandad has refused to travel to New Zealand with the national team, saying that he believes coach Waqar Younis should have complete authority in team matters.

Miandad, who was recently roped in as Pakistans batting and fielding consultant, was offered by the Pakistan Cricket Board … Read : Miandad opts out of NZ tour to avoid confusion.

Australian Open entry full except Serena Williams

MELBOURNE – Serena Williams is the only major name missing from the women’s draw as the Australian Open announced a nearly full entry Saturday for the first Grand Slam of the season starting Jan 17.

Williams, who last played at Wimbledon six months ago and whose return to tennis after a summer foot injury remains … Read more >>>.

South Africa coach touts Steyn as trump card against India

CAPE TOWN – South Africa’s bowling coach Vincent Barnes believes his team’s pace attack led by speedster Dale Steyn has the firepower to bowl India out twice in a Test match.

Barnes feels bowling is South Africa’s strong point at home, and he is banking on Steyn to come up with the goods in …. Original article  : South Africa coach touts Steyn as trump card against India.

BCCI special meet approves disciplinary committee on Modi

MUMBAI – The Indian cricket board at its Special General Meeting (SGM) Saturday, retained the three-member disciplinary committee of Chirayu Amin, Arun Jaitley and Jyotiraditya Scindia, who are looking into the charges of financial irregularities against suspended Indian Premier League (IPL) chief Lalit Modi.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) called its … Read : BCCI special meet approves disciplinary committee on Modi.

Bill Simmons: The New ESPN Commentator

OAKLAND (GaeaTimes.com)- Bill Simmons made a remarkable statement as a commentator, when he accompanied Dan Shulman and Mark Jackson in the NBA match that took place between Miami Heats and Golden State Warriors yesterday. This was the first time that ESPN assigned Bill Simmons to take up this role. Many people were under the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

No changes in BCCI panel probing Lalit Modi

NEW DELHI – The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Saturday decided not to reconstitute the disciplinary committee which is hearing charges of financial irregularities against former Indian Premier League (IPL) Chairman Lalit Modi.

It has been further decided that the term of the three-member panel will be till the matter is decided.

The … Read more : No changes in BCCI panel probing Lalit Modi.

I don’t fear for my Chelsea job, says Ancelotti

LONDON – Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti has said that he doesn’t fears for his job, and added that the club has cash available for next month’s transfer window.

Poor form has left Chelsea and the boss facing their ‘destiny’ in the next three Premier League games.

Chelsea face Tottenham tomorrow, followed by Manchester United and …. Source article  : I don’t fear for my Chelsea job, says Ancelotti.

Fabregas asks Arsenal to beat Man U and become champions

LONDON – Arsenal skipper Cesc Fabregas has asked his teammates to beat Manchester United and become champions.

Fabregas said: “It’s a huge game on Monday and we could go four points ahead at the top.

“We’re definitely looking to go to Old Trafford and win. That would be a massive statement of intent for us. We are …. Source  : Fabregas asks Arsenal to beat Man U and become champions.

Pietersen asked to be careful about his tweets

LONDON – England team managing director Hugh Morris has asked batsman Kevin Pietersen to be careful when posting tweets on his Twitter account following his latest outburst on the networking site.

Pietersen, who was selected to England’s Twenty20 and one-day squads to face Australia after the Ashes series, branded the Adelaide Oval groundsman ‘pathetic’ last Tuesday … Read more »».

Oz selectors not under pressure due to continuous criticism: Hilditch

SYDNEY – Australian cricket’s chairman of selectors Andrew Hilditch has denied that selectors were feeling pressured by the continuous criticism of their decisions.

Hilditch and fellow selectors Greg Chappell, Jamie Cox and David Boon made widespread changes to Australia’s squad for the third Test against England.

“If you don’t make changes, you’re too conservative. If you do …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Oz selectors not under pressure due to continuous criticism: Hilditch.

Woods mistress Rachel Uchitel breaks down in tears on ‘Celebrity Rehab’

LONDON – Tiger Woods’ ex-mistress Rachel Uchitel had an emotional meltdown on reality TV show ‘Celebrity Rehab’ as she worried about her reputation.

The former nightclub hostess sobbed as she received a phone call telling her she was being “lynched in the press” for appearing on the show.

Four days after checking into rehab her representative called …. Read the original article  : Woods mistress Rachel Uchitel breaks down in tears on ‘Celebrity Rehab’.

Is Shane Warne chasing Liz Hurley?

LONDON – Cricket icon Shane Warne is chasing Liz Hurley after flirting madly with her at a party, according to sources.

Hurley, 45, got the full attention of the 41-year-old Aussie at a London bash thrown by Russian tycoon Alexander Lebedev.

“Shane was all over her like a love-sick pup and flirting like mad, ” the Sun … Read : Is Shane Warne chasing Liz Hurley?.

Beer’s selection proves Hilditch has ‘officially lost the plot’: MacGill

MELBOURNE – The selection of Michael Beer into the Australian Test team proves that selectors chairman Andrew Hilditch has officially lost the plot, according to former spinner Stuart MacGill.

Left arm spinner Beer was playing grade cricket in Melbourne last season. He moved to Western Australia because he wasn’t good enough to represent Victoria.

He has a [..] Read the original article: here.

Greg Chappell blames ‘homogenous’ home pitches for ‘decline of Australian cricket’

MELBOURNE – Australia’s national talent manager Greg Chappell has said that homogenous pitches had changed the character of the Australian cricket.

“It’s not the reason [for decline], but it is a change in Australian cricket that is disappointing,” Chappell said.

“One of the great things about Australian cricket is that every wicket was different, and …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Greg Chappell blames ‘homogenous’ home pitches for ‘decline of Australian cricket’.

Oz selectors”chopping and changing’ regime ruining bowlers’ performances: Clark

SYDNEY – One of the major problems confronting the Australian bowling unit at the moment is the confusion surrounding places in the team, fast bowler Stuart Clark has said.

“Once again we are left to ponder the chopping and changing by Australia’s selectors. I can’t quite work out the logic behind the omission of Mitchell Johnson … Read more : Oz selectors’ ‘chopping and changing’ regime ruining bowlers’ performances: Clark.

‘Recalled’ Hughes says has exorcised his ‘chin music’ demons ahead of Perth Test

PERTH – Recalled Australian batsman Phillip Hughes insists that he “would not lose any sleep” over England’s plan to bounce him into Test oblivion.

Hughes has been summoned to replace injured Simon Katich for the third Test in Perth, which starts on Thursday.

The 22-year-old had burst on to the international scene with two hundreds in …. Read the original article  : ‘Recalled’ Hughes says has exorcised his ‘chin music’ demons ahead of Perth Test.

Vettori says his role as captain under scanner after 5-0 drubbing by India

WELLINGTON – Daniel Vettori has acknowledged that his role as captain of the New Zealand cricket team is under the scanner after an embarrassing 0-5 one-day international series defeat in India.

New Zealand suffered an eight-wicket drubbing in the final match at Chennai, losing their 11th successive match across three series on the subcontinent since August.

Vettori …. Source article  : Vettori says his role as captain under scanner after 5-0 drubbing by India.

‘Panicked’ Oz selectors have no idea of country’s No.1 spinner: Doherty

MELBOURNE – Australian spinner Xavier Doherty, who has been axed from the squad for the Perth Test, has said that there is a hint of panic in selections and the selectors have no idea who the country’s No.1 spinner was.

Doherty was a surprise call-up for the first Test but after starting well with 2-41 in … Read more >>.

Border in ’state of shock’ over Beer’s selection for Perth Test

SYDNEY – Former Australian captain Allan Border has said that the selection of left-arm spinner Michael Beer for the third Ashes Test in Perth is a huge surprise.

Beer, who is one of four changes from the Australian team for the Adelaide Test, has played just five first-class matches for Western Australia.

“I’m in a state of … Original article on : Border in ’state of shock’ over Beer’s selection for Perth Test.

Arthur backs ‘exceptional’ Beer to succeed in Perth Test

BRISBANE – Former South Africa and Western Australia coach Mickey Arthur has backed left-arm spinner Michael Beer to succeed where Xavier Doherty and the eight other spinners selected since leg-spin legend Shane Warne’s retirement have failed.

Beer has been playing club cricket in Melbourne for less than a year and has appeared in just five first-class … Original source on Gaea Times at : Arthur backs ‘exceptional’ Beer to succeed in Perth Test.

BCCI to re-constitute disciplinary panel

NEW DELHI – The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will hold a special meeting today to reconstitute the panel looking at charges of financial irregularities against former Indian Premier League (IPL) Chairman Lalit Modi.

On November 22, Modi’s counsel Mehmood Abdi had said that the three-member disciplinary panel did not have the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : BCCI to re-constitute disciplinary panel.

Heisman Trophy Winners Hog Limelight

MANHATTAN (GaeaTimes.com)- The win of Auburn Tigers quarterback Cam Newton in the race for the prestigious Heisman Trophy did not come without the caveats. The player who has given commendable performance this season managed to edge ahead of other three contenders who made it to the final round. Despite the win which has …. Source article  : Heisman Trophy Winners Hog Limelight.

UFC 124 Fights Entertain To The Fullest

MONTREAL, CANADA (GaeaTimes.com)- The UFC 124 Fight matches gave a few more games of excitement to the fans who watched it last night. Every match had its own USP and highlights that made each of them memorable in their own ways.
In the first UFC 124 Fight main card match, Champion Georges St-Pierre defeated … Original article on : UFC 124 Fights Entertain To The Fullest.

Pardew begins with win over Liverpool, City level at top

LONDON – Alan Pardew got off to a winning start as Newcastle United manager as his side beat Liverpool 3-1 Saturday.

There had been demonstrations in the streets around the ground against the sacking of Chris Hughton before the game, but Pardew himself was welcomed with applause, with the boos inside the ground reserved for …. Original article  : Pardew begins with win over Liverpool, City level at top.

Major Applewhite Leaving Texas Longhorns?

AUSTIN (GaeaTimes.com)- It seems that the Texas Longhorns are going through a tough phase. After the loss of Will Muschamp, Major Applewhite is also heading towards the Florida Gators, reports have claimed. Yes, Texas Longhorns assistant head coach Major Applewhite is supposedly moving in the direction of the former Texas head coach. A source close … Read : Major Applewhite Leaving Texas Longhorns?.

Saina wins Hong Kong Open Super Series

HONG KONG – India’s Saina Nehwal won the Hong Kong Open Super Series badminton tournament beating China’s Shixian Wang 2-1 in the women’s singles final here Sunday.

Second seeded Saina won 15-21 21-16 21-17 against third seeded Wang, an Asian Games gold medallist, in a match that lasted one hour and 11 minutes at the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Saina wins Hong Kong Open Super Series.

Will Muschamp To Coach Florida Gators

GAINESVILLE (GaeaTimes.com)- Will Muschamp, after serving the Texas Longhorns as a defensive coordinator for three years, will now be elated to hold the post of a head coach. However, with the new post, he would be serving the Florida Gators after replacing Urban Meyer. Will Muschamp said this new opportunity is like dream come …. Source article  : Will Muschamp To Coach Florida Gators.

Wasim Bari back in PCB ranks as ‘Education and Training Director’

KARACHI – Former chief operating officer of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Wasim Bari, has been appointed Director of Education and Training, a post created within the board as part of its revised anti-corruption measures in the aftermath of the spot-fixing controversy.

“Cricket is facing new challenges but as custodian of the game we are committed … Original source on Gaea Times at : Wasim Bari back in PCB ranks as ‘Education and Training Director’.

Ex-Aussie cricketers slam selectors for ignoring ‘in-form’ Hauritz

MELBOURNE – Former Australian cricketers have slammed the selectors for not considering off-spinner Nathan Hauritz for the third Test of the Ashes series, starting in Perth on Thursday.

The selectors have named little-known West Australian leg-spinner Michael Beer in the 12-man squad, despite Hauritz recently taking five wickets at Perth and scoring 146 against South Australia … Read more »».

Boxing Day Ashes Test is tailor-made for Warne’s return: Lee

SYDNEY – Australian fast bowler Brett Lee has added his support to the campaign calling for leg-spin legend Shane Warne’s return to the Test arena to salvage the Ashes series against England.

Speculation that Australia’s all-time leading wicket taker could return to Test cricket has intensified after England won the Adelaide Test by an …. Source article  : Boxing Day Ashes Test is tailor-made for Warne’s return: Lee.

2011 Cricket World Cup teams under terror threat, warns security expert

LONDON – A security expert has warned that the 14 national teams taking part in next year’s cricket World Cup in India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka are at risk from terrorist attacks, unless there is a sudden and major change in strategy.

According to The Telegraph, the warning was issued after it was revealed that teams … Original article on : 2011 Cricket World Cup teams under terror threat, warns security expert.

Cam Newton: Heisman Trophy Winner

MANHATTAN (GaeaTimes.com)- Auburn Tigers quarterback Cam Newton was declared the winner of the prestigious Heisman Trophy yesterday and with this feather in his cap, the player emerged clear out of the controversy surrounding him lately. The award ceremony which is usually an excitement filled one proved to be rather muted this year. Cam Newton … Read : Cam Newton: Heisman Trophy Winner.

Father of Lewis Hamilton’s ex ‘jailed for ???40m con’

LONDON – The father of Lewis Hamilton’s ex-girlfriend has been jailed for 12 years after a Hong Kong court convicted him of defrauding banks including HSBC into lending his company nearly 40 million pounds.

Ma Bo-kee was the multi-millionaire founder of one of the world’s biggest eyewear companies, Moulin, when his daughter Jodia began a four-year … Read more »»».

UAE president grants $2.7 mn for Olympic soccer team

Abu Dhabi, Dec 11 (IANS/WAM) UAE President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan has ordered a grant of 10 million dirhams (about $2.7 million) for the players in the national Olympic soccer team and its technical and administrative staff in recognition of their achievements in the international sports arena.

The team recently won a silver [..] Read the original article: here.

Saina in Hong Kong Super Series final

HONG KONG – India’s Saina Nehwal staved off a strong challenge from Germany’s Juliane Schenk 21-19, 17-21, 21-12 to move into the final of the Hong Kong Open Super Series badminton tournament Saturday.

World No.4 and second seeded Saina won against the sixth seed Juliane in 53 minutes at the Queen Elizabeth stadium.
With …. Original article  : Saina in Hong Kong Super Series final.

Shooter Gagan ends year as Asia’s No.1

NEW DELHI – Ace Indian shooter Gagan Narang ended the year as the No.1 rifle shooter in Asia.

“I can attribute the performances of 2010 to good planning and preparation. I had started the process a couple of years in advance and this really is the result of that process. I hope to build … Read : Shooter Gagan ends year as Asia’s No.1.

Saina in final of Hong Kong Open

HONG KONG – India’s Saina Nehwal defeated Germany’s Juliane Schenk to move into the final of the Hong Kong Open Super Series badminton tournament here Saturday.

Saina, seeded second, won 21-19, 17-21, 21-12 against the sixth seeded Juliane in 53 minutes at the Queen Elizabeth Stadium.
In Sunday’s final, Saina will face third seeded …. Source  : Saina in final of Hong Kong Open.

Bikers set for challenging Nashik Rally

NASHIK – The virgin tracks of the Wine City beckon the cream of talent in the country as the top riders begin their battles of speed in the MAK Rally of Maharashtra, the third round of the MAK Indian National Rally Championship for motorcycles here Sunday.

The privateers are all geared up to show their … Original source on Gaea Times at : Bikers set for challenging Nashik Rally.

TTFI to open national academy to produce world-class players

NEW DELHI – With an eye to the future and to produce a steady stream of international players, the Table Tennis Federation of India (TTFI) is all set to open a national academy in Indore by April next year.

Abhay Prashal Indoor Stadium in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, is the chosen venue for the academy. It … Read more >>.

Brandon Spikes’s Suspension Makes Headlines

FOXBOROUGH (GaeaTimes.com)- National Football League on Friday announced that it has suspended Brandon Spikes, the New England Patriots rookie linebacker for breaching the NFL rules on performance-enhancing substances. He has been suspended for four games. However, they chose to remain secretive about naming the substance. The league said that the suspension order for the prohibited … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Brandon Spikes’s Suspension Makes Headlines.

Spinner Doherty blames his axing on selectors’ panic

SYDNEY – After being dropped from the third Ashes Test in Perth, Australian left-arm spinner Xavier Doherty insinuated panic in the minds of the selectors and said he would have liked to have a few more chances to prove his worth.

Doherty made his debut in the first Test at The Gabba and was dropped … Read more : Spinner Doherty blames his axing on selectors’ panic.

Manchester City consider options as Tevez insists on leaving

LONDON – Manchester City were pondering their next move Monday morning after their Argentine forward Carlos Tevez insisted he would leave the club.

The 26-year-old, who has been one of City’s best players this season, handed in a transfer request, saying that relations with “certain executives” at the club have “broken down beyond repair”.
The … Original article on : Manchester City consider options as Tevez insists on leaving.

Mohun Bagan’s chief coach resigns

KOLKATA – Having drawn flak for Mohun Bagan’s lacklustre performance during the ongoing season, the club’s chief soccer coach Stanley Rosario resigned Monday.

“As Mohun Bagan is a formidable club, I want it to bounce back… At this point of time, in the greater interest of the team and the club, I step … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Mohun Bagan’s chief coach resigns.

Tennis icon Navratilova released from hospital

NAIROBI – Tennis legend Martina Navratilova was released from a Kenyan hospital three days after she aborted an attempt to ascend Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro.

Navratilova was stretchered down the mountain Friday when she developed high-altitude pulmonary oedema as the team of climbers she was leading in the charity ascent reached 4,500 metres.
“I am feeling …. Original article  : Tennis icon Navratilova released from hospital.

Arsenal’s ‘2004 Invincibles’ won’t happen again: Ferguson

LONDON – Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has ruled out the possibility of his club emulating Arsenal’s ‘2004 Invincibles’ by winning this year’s Premier League title without losing a match.

If United wins Monday’s clash with Arsenal at Old Trafford, they can replace Arsene Wenger’s side at the top of the table and stretch their …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Arsenal’s ‘2004 Invincibles’ won’t happen again: Ferguson.

Cricket Australia defends fielding coach Young’s part-time appointment

SYDNEY – Cricket Australia spokesman Peter Young has defended the use of fielding coach Mike Young, saying that he is employed on a part-time basis.

The board has been criticized for Young’s annual consultancy agreement.

The agreement included the Ashes opener in Brisbane, but his services were not required in the Adelaide Test, which Australia lost by … Read more : Cricket Australia defends fielding coach Young’s part-time appointment.

Platini backs winter 2022 football World Cup in Qatar

LONDON – UEFA President Michel Platini has said that he supports the idea of shifting the 2022 World Cup in Qatar from summer to winter to avoid extreme desert temperatures.

Platini said that it would be easier to play the World Cup in January, instead of in June.

“It’s true that if we talk about the World … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Platini backs winter 2022 football World Cup in Qatar.

Chelsea will win next game against Manchester United: Ancelotti

LONDON – Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti is confident that his team will beat Manchester United in their top-of-the table Premier League clash next Sunday at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea has not won in five league games, and has taken only six points from seven games.

However, Ancelotti claims that Sunday’s fightback after being 0-1 down against Tottenham Hotspur … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Chelsea will win next game against Manchester United: Ancelotti.

Arsenal will use ‘big game’ against Man U to prove league title bid: Wenger

LONDON – Ahead of Monday’s Premier League match between Arsenal and Manchester United, Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has urged his young team to prove that they can finally come of age and deliver a serious title challenge.

“We have built a team and slowly come up there. Now we have an opportunity to show we are … Original source on Gaea Times at : Arsenal will use ‘big game’ against Man U to prove league title bid: Wenger.

Woods’ ex growing ‘close’ to hunky student in Florida

LONDON – It seems Tiger Woods’ ex-wife Elin Nordegren is finally getting over her golfer husband.

According to a source, the mum-of-two is growing close to a hunky student.

The Swedish former model, 30, met the 35-year-old South African at college in Florida where both are studying.

“There’s been kissing and cuddling but I don’t know if … Original source on Gaea Times at : Woods’ ex growing ‘close’ to hunky student in Florida.

Pakistan will raise winning team for World Cup: Afridi

KARACHI – Pakistan cricket captain Shahid Afridi feels that his team will transform itself into a winning outfit in the lead up to the World Cup that starts in February 2011.

“The World Cup is an all-important event for all of us which is why we are taking all possible steps to put the team … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Pakistan will raise winning team for World Cup: Afridi.

Lok Sabha congratulates Saina Nehwal

NEW DELHI – The Lok Sabha Monday congratulated ace shuttler Saina Nehwal who won her third super series title of the year at the Hong Kong Open.

Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar read out a message wishing good luck to the 20-year-old badminton player as parliamentarians thumped their tables.
Saina won her third … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Lok Sabha congratulates Saina Nehwal.

Al Golden To Coach Miami Hurricanes

CORAL GABLES (GaeaTimes.com)- After being associated with the Temple University for about five seasons, it seems for coach Al Golden it was just the right time to move on. The 41-year-old Temple University head coach has been employed as the head coach of the University of Miami. Al Golden would be introduced as the … Read more »»».

Oz selectors recalled Johnson after running out of options: Chappell

MELBOURNE – Australian selector Greg Chappell has admitted that the selection committee had recalled out of form left-arm fast bowler Mitchell Johnson for the third Ashes Test because ‘there are not a lot of options’.

Johnson was omitted after finishing with figures of 0-170 during the drawn first Test in Brisbane, but has been included in … Read : Oz selectors recalled Johnson after running out of options: Chappell.

Shane Warne flies home as rumours about affair with Hurley grow

MELBOURNE – Cricket legend Shane Warne has flown back to Melbourne as rumours accusing the Australian and actress Liz Hurley of being secret lovers fuel up.

Allegations of a steamy affair surfaced when they were caught on film in a succession of passionate public embraces in London, UK newspaper News of the World revealed, … Original source on Gaea Times at : Shane Warne flies home as rumours about affair with Hurley grow.

Manchester City reject Tevez’s transfer request

LONDON – Manchester City has rejected a transfer request from captain Carlos Tevez, and expressed disappointment at the “actions of his representative” over the matter.

Tevez is reportedly adamant that he wants to quit Eastlands after growing disenchanted with the management.

“It is with disappointment that we confirm to our supporters that Carlos Tevez has submitted a …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

‘Perth Test surprise select’ Beer set for a 100,000 dollar-plus pay rise

PERTH – Western Australia left-arm spinner Michael Beer is set for a 100,000 dollars-plus pay rise after his selection in the 12-man Australian squad for the third Ashes Test, starting in Perth from Thursday.

Beer is currently on a rookie contract worth 52,000 dollars with Western Australia.

Factoring in match payments of 4200 dollars for each …. Read the original article  : ‘Perth Test surprise select’ Beer set for a 100,000 dollar-plus pay rise.

Tevez set to quit Manchester City after transfer request snub: Report

LONDON – Manchester City captain Carlos Tevez is reportedly set to quit the club after it refused to grant him a transfer.

Tevez is adamant that he wants out of Eastlands, and says that no amount of money will make him stay.

According to The Sun, the Argentinian striker first said that he wanted to quit back …. Read the original article  : Tevez set to quit Manchester City after transfer request snub: Report.

Kiwis must halt embarrassing slide in one-day cricket: Richardson

AUCKLAND – Former New Zealand cricketer Mark Richardson believes changes are needed in the Black Cap squad to halt its embarrassing slide in one-day cricket.

The New Zealand team, which was thrashed 0-5 in the five match one-day series against India, has equalled their second worst one-day run of 11 straight defeats.

They were earlier beaten …. Source article  : Kiwis must halt embarrassing slide in one-day cricket: Richardson.

‘Dumped’ Doherty warns Beer to be ready for an English onslaught in Perth

SYDNEY – Dumped Australian left-arm spinner Xavier Doherty has warned his successor Michael Beer to expect a baptism of fire from an England line-up ready to attack him from the first ball.

Doherty said that England’s in-form batsmen would aim to target the debutant during the third Ashes Test, starting for Thursday at Perth’s WACA Ground, … Read more »»».

600 contestants at Agra’s National Women’s Sports Meet

AGRA – Eighteen teams and more than 600 contestants from different states will take part in the three-day 36th National Women’s Sports Meet beginning at the Eklavya Stadium here Monday.

Regional sports officer Ajai Kumar Sethi said arrangements for the stay of the sportspersons had been made.
A team of SAI officials led by … Read more : 600 contestants at Agra’s National Women’s Sports Meet.

Pak Test skipper describes Kiwis as tough challengers on home
soil

LAHORE – PakistanTest captain Misbah-ul-Haq has described the New Zealand cricket team as strong opponents on home soil.

“I think no one should consider New Zealand’s [poor] performances on Asian pitches and atmosphere, [because] they have always been tough rivals in their home conditions,” the Dawn quoted … Read more >>.

Afghan coach Rashid Latif challenges Pak to a rematch

KARACHI – Afghanistan cricket coach and former Pakistan wicketkeeper Rashid Latif has challenged Pakistan for a rematch after it was alleged that the Twenty20 match between the two teams in the Guangzhou Asian Games had been fixed.

A furious Rashid said that his players’ win over their …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Don King Caught With Ammunition

CLEVELAND (GaeaTimes.com)- Boxing promoter Don King, who is known for his flamboyant lifestyle and his outlandish hairstyle was caught with ammunition in his bag on Monday. The renowned boxing promoter was stopped by the security officials at Cleveland’s Hopkins International Airport while he was boarding the plane for Florida. The security officials said that …. Read the original article  : Don King Caught With Ammunition.

“Jets Coach Trips Player Video” Marks Coach’s Suspension

NEW YORK CITY (GaeaTimes.com)- Right now, the biggest search on the internet, is the video that displays the notorious act of Sal Alosi, where he is shown tripping the Miami corner back Nolan Carroll, while the latter was attempting to cover a punt in the third quarter of the game. The video deservingly assumed …. Original source  : “Jets Coach Trips Player Video” Marks Coach’s Suspension.

Kiwi cricketers will pay for failure, says association chief

AUCKLAND – In what is seen as a fallout of their disastrous India tour, New Zealand cricketers have been warned by the New Zealand Cricket Players’ Association (NZCPA) chief to either start performing or be prepared for significant cuts in their pay packets.

New Zealand lost the Test series 0-1 and the five match one-day …. Original source  : Kiwi cricketers will pay for failure, says association chief.

PCB allows five players to go for ad shoot in Malaysia

KARACHI – The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has permitted five of its leading players to travel to Malaysia for a commercial shoot in relation to the 2011 World Cup.

Shahid Afridi, Younus Khan, Shoaib Akhtar, Umar Gul and Abdul Razzaq have been given permission to travel to Malaysia for two days for the shoot.

“The …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Greatbatch offers to quit as Black Caps’ coach if it helps change team’s fortunes

Auckland, Dec 14((ANI): New Zealand coach Mark Greatbatch has accepted that 11 one-day losses on the trot is shocking, but says that he is not a quitter and will step down only if asked to.

“I’ve been asked to do this job through to the World Cup and I’m committed to that. If it’s in the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Cricket Australia rules out Ashes comeback from Warne

SYDNEY – Cricket Australia (CA) Chief Executive James Sutherland has ruled out the possibility of former leg-spinner Shane Warne coming out of retirement to play in the Boxing Day and Sydney Tests of the Ashes series.

Speculation that Australia’s leading wicket taker could return to Test cricket had intensified after England won the Adelaide Test by …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Cricket Australia rules out Ashes comeback from Warne.

My role in a team is to bowl over 150ks to intimidate batsmen, take wickets: Lee

WELLINGTON – Australian fast bowler Brett Lee, who is in New Zealand to play five matches for Wellington in a domestic Twenty20 championship, has said that his role in that team is to “bowl fast, intimidate, batsmen and try to take wickets”.

Lee, continuing his comeback after an eight-month lay-off with an elbow injury, will begin …. Source  : My role in a team is to bowl over 150ks to intimidate batsmen, take wickets: Lee.

Hodge slams Oz selectors for picking ‘out-of-form’ Johnson for Perth Test

SYDNEY – Australian batsman Brad Hodge has ridiculed the national selectors for considering out-of-form left-arm fast bowler Mitchell Johnson for the third Ashes Test, starting in Perth from Thursday.

Johnson, who was axed by the selectors after he finished the opening Ashes Test in Brisbane wicketless, has been included in the 12-man squad for the third … Read more : Hodge slams Oz selectors for picking ‘out-of-form’ Johnson for Perth Test.

Ex-Pak skipper Butt vows to make a comeback

ISLAMABAD – Suspended Pakistan Test opener and former Test captain Salman Butt has vowed to make a comeback to professional cricket despite the spot-fixing allegations that are threatening to end his career prematurely.

Butt, Mohammad Asif and Mohammed Aamer were all provisionally suspended by the International Cricket Council (ICC) following allegations they had all conspired … Read more : Ex-Pak skipper Butt vows to make a comeback.

PCB appoints ex-SC judge to its integrity committee

KARACHI – A retired Supreme Court judge, Jamshed Ali Shah, has been included in a Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) integrity committee to ensure a transparent selection process.

A PCB official confirmed Monday that Justice Shah had been inducted on the committee after discussions with the International Cricket Council (ICC).

“The PCB and the ICC task …. Original source  : PCB appoints ex-SC judge to its integrity committee.

Manchester City will force Tevez to stay at club: Report

LONDON – Manchester City will not sell captain Carlos Tevez in January, a senior club official has said.

The official said that if Tevez refuses to play or retires, the club would seek compensation for breach of contract from his agent Kia Joorabchian, the BBC reports.

The 26-year-old’s deal, which has three-and-a-half years to run, is … Read more >>.

Hodge slams Oz selectors for ‘giving Baggy Greens for free’

SYDNEY – Australian batsman Brad Hodge has accused the national selectors of giving away Baggy Greens “for free”.

Hodge said he was glad to have played his six Tests in a great Australian cricket era rather than now, when almost anyone gets a cap.

“I’d rather have achieved what I did among that group of players in … Read more >>>.

Anderson’s return home, Pietersen are England’s Ashes concerns: Flower

PERTH – England coach Andy Flower reckons that fast bowler James Anderson’s fatigue and star batsman Kevin Pietersen’s off-field indulgences are more worrying than third Ashes Test opponents, Australia.

Flower was assessing the toll taken by Anderson’s dash to return home for the birth of his second child this week, which involved two long-haul flights in …. Read the original article  : Anderson’s return home, Pietersen are England’s Ashes concerns: Flower.

Blatter says no gay sex in Qatar during 2022 football World Cup

LONDON – FIFA President Sepp Blatter has raised eyebrows again by joking that gay people should simply not have sex in Qatar during the 2022 football World Cup to avoid any possible punishment.

When asked whether gays and lesbians should worry about attending the event in Qatar because of its hostile attitude towards homosexuality, Blatter said: …. Source article  : Blatter says no gay sex in Qatar during 2022 football World Cup.

Shane Warne splits from wife

LONDON – Hours after Liz Hurley revealed she had separated from her tycoon husband Arun Nayer, cricket legend Shane Warne admitted that he has parted ways with his wife.

The dad of three released a statement on his website saying he was no longer with Simone Callahan, reports the Sun.

Liz, 45, had revealed how she had … Original article on : Shane Warne splits from wife.

Tiger Woods’ ex-wife ‘dating South African hunk’

LONDON – It seems Tiger Woods’ ex-wife Elin Nordegren is finally moving on in life by getting close to a hunky student.

The Swedish former model, 30, who divorced Tiger in August, met the 35-year-old South African at college in Florida where both are studying.

“There’s been kissing and cuddling but I don’t know if it’s gone …. Original article  : Tiger Woods’ ex-wife ‘dating South African hunk’.

Mohun Bagan appoints Bhowmick as technical director

KOLKATA – Subhas Bhowmick has been appointed technical director of the Mohun Bagan soccer team, club general secretary Anjan Mitra said in a statement here Tuesday.

Bhowmick replaces Stanly Rozario, who quit Tuesday after the clubs lacklustre show so far this season.
The team would have its first practice under Bhowmick this afternoon, Mitra said.
… Original article on : Mohun Bagan appoints Bhowmick as technical director.

Shane Warne Splits With Simone Callahan

LONDON (GaeaTimes.com)- Just hours after American bombshell Elizabeth Hurley announced that she has separated from her husband Indian tycoon Arun Nayar, former Australian cricket ace Shane Warne also confirmed about his separation. Shane Warne also took to Twitter to report about her split with his wife Simone Callahan. Both Elizabeth Hurley and Shane Warne …. Original article  : Shane Warne Splits With Simone Callahan.

Footie manager jailed for 10 months for sex with underage player

MELBOURNE – A football team manager has been jailed for 10 months after she was discovered to be having sex with an underage player.

Kimberley Gale, 24, who was a team manager of a northern suburbs under-16s football team, was caught when she sent her victim a text message that … Read more >>.

Fletcher backs Swann’s ‘mental hold’ over Oz to winPerth Ashes Test for England

PERTH – England off-spinner Graeme Swann has a “mental hold” over Australia, and will do the majority of the damage during the third Ashes Test in Perth, according to former coach Duncan Fletcher.

Fletcher said that Swann would take advantage of the WACA pitch, which will …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Boycott urges England team to ‘kibosh Australia’ and retain Ashes in Perth

LONDON – The Andrew Strauss-led England team must play to win, not draw, the third Test of the Ashes series against Australia, according to former England batsman Geoffrey Boycott.

England currently leads the five-match series 1-0, after winning the second Test at Adelaide by an innings and 71 runs.

“It is crucial we … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Boycott urges England team to ‘kibosh Australia’ and retain Ashes in Perth.

‘Mismanagement of the mental game’ behind Black Caps’ ODI slide: Greatbatch

AUCKLAND – New Zealand coach Mark Greatbatch reckons that lack of ‘mental hardness’ is a key part behind the Black Caps’ recent embarrassing slide in one-day cricket.

The New Zealand team, which was thrashed 0-5 in a one-day series against India, has equalled their second worst one-day run of …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : ‘Mismanagement of the mental game’ behind Black Caps’ ODI slide: Greatbatch.

Joe Smith Swapping Camps

HOUSTON (GaeaTimes.com)- There is some swapping going on in the basket ball camps as three major teams, New Jersey Jets, Los Angeles Lakers, and Houston Rockets have been indulging themselves in it. Recently it was announced that New Jersey Nets forward Joe Smith will be shifted to the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for Sasha …. Source  : Joe Smith Swapping Camps.

Injury-plagued Oram says he is carefully working towards 2011 World Cup goal

AUCKLAND – New Zealand all-rounder Jacob Oram, who is fighting to overcome a knee injury, has said that he is working towards his 2011 World Cup goal.

Oram has been sidelined since August after a recurrence of a patella tendon injury during the one-day tri-series with India and Sri Lanka.

The 32-year-old underwent a knee surgery on …. Read the original article  : Injury-plagued Oram says he is carefully working towards 2011 World Cup goal.

It’s the pacers versus Sehwag, says Morkel

CENTURION – Stopping the initial onslaught of destructive opener Virender Sehwag would be the key element of the home team’s pace attack against India in the cricket Test series starting here Thursday, according to South African fast bowler Morne Morkel.

Morkel, who will pair up with world’s top-ranked bowler Dale Steyn in the first Test, … Read : It’s the pacers versus Sehwag, says Morkel.

‘Recalled’ Hughes vows to emulate ‘aggressive’ Sehwag during Perth Test

PERTH – Opening batsman Phil Hughes has said he is ready to be Australia’s version of India’s explosive batsman Virender Sehwag as his team looks to revive their Ashes campaign in the third Test, starting in Perth on Thursday.

Hughes has been summoned to replace injured Simon Katich for the third Test.

“I love watching Sehwag … Read this article on Gaea Times at : ‘Recalled’ Hughes vows to emulate ‘aggressive’ Sehwag during Perth Test.

Lorgat hopes to encourage Team India to use controversial ‘UDRS’

LONDON – International Cricket Council (ICC) Chief Executive Haroon Lorgat has reiterated that he would encourage the Indian team to show a little more willingness to try the controversial Umpire Decision Review System (UDRS).

Indian scepticism, especially from batting maestro Sachin Tendulkar and captain M.S. Dhoni, has been a significant roadblock to the system’s universal employment.

“It … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Lorgat hopes to encourage Team India to use controversial ‘UDRS’.

Corruption rife in world cricket: Butt’s lawyer

LONDON – A lawyer assisting tainted Pakistani cricketer Salman Butt believes that corruption is “rife” in world cricket and claims to have evidence against players that “will make your hair stand on end”.

Aftab Gul, a member of Butt’s legal team said spot-fixing is rampant in cricket as it is a lot easier than … Read : Corruption rife in world cricket: Butt’s lawyer.

‘I’m fitter and faster than ever, so just… let me at the Aussies: Tremlett

PERTH – England may be keeping its cards close to its chest and not revealing which of its three reserve fast bowlers will replace injured Stuart Broad in the third Ashes Test to be played in Perth from Thursday, but one of them – Chris Tremlett-insists that he is armed and ready.

“We haven’t been told …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : ‘I’m fitter and faster than ever, so just… let me at the Aussies: Tremlett.

Floor hockey meet for special athletes begins in Himachal

SHIMLA – The national-level floor hockey championship for special athletes began in this Himachal Pradesh capital Wednesday, an organiser here said.

“As many as 457 special athletes from 21 states will vie in the National Floor Hockey Championship that will conclude Dec 19,” Himachal Special Olympics Committee president Mallika Nadda told IANS.
There would be …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Floor hockey meet for special athletes begins in Himachal.

Ronaldo, Zidane lead squad in match against poverty

ATHENS – Ronaldo and Zinedine Zidane joined a star-studded squad for a charity football match in Athens that ended in a 2-2 draw against the leading Greek club Olympiakos.

The match Tuesday night was organised to put a spotlight on the global fight against poverty.
UNDP goodwill ambassadors Ronaldo and Zidane mobilised their team from … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Ronaldo, Zidane lead squad in match against poverty.

Bhowmick takes over as Mohun Bagan technical director

KOLKATA – Subhas Bhowmick Tuesday took over as technical director of the beleaguered Mohun Bagan soccer team, saying he was taking up the job as a challenge.

Bhowmick’s appointment came a day after Stanley Rozario quit as chief coach, following the club’s lacklustre performance this season.
Asked how challenging would be the job, Bhowmick replied: …. Source  : Bhowmick takes over as Mohun Bagan technical director.

Bombay High Court upholds stay on Rajasthan Royals termination

MUMBAI – The Bombay High Court on Tuesday upheld the stay on the termination of Rajasthan Royals made by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) following which the team can now participate in the auction for the fourth edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) tournament.

Passing the …. Read the original article  : here.

Tata Open badminton goes international

MUMBAI – Leading shuttlers from Malaysia and Indonesia have confirmed their participation in the $15,000 Tata Open India International Challenge 2010 to be held here Dec 15-25 at the Cricket Club of India (CCI) courts.

The mens singles field includes Alamsyah Yonus, winner of the Indian Grand Prix Gold tournament; Tommy Sugiarto (son of former … Read : Tata Open badminton goes international.

Delhi banks on Kohli and seamers to see them through

NEW DELHI – Hosts Delhi will be banking on Virat Kohli and a seaming surface when they take on defending champions Mumbai in a must-win match for a quarterfinal spot in the Ranji Trophy Super League at the Roshanara Club here Wednesday.

The two teams have long enjoyed a healthy rivalry with several of their …. Original source  : Delhi banks on Kohli and seamers to see them through.

Haryana overcome Karnataka in National Volleyball

CHENNAI – Haryana kept their hopes alive in the mens section with a hard-fought 3-1 win against Karnataka as champions Tamil Nadu (men) and Indian Railways (women) chalked up fluent victories in the National Volleyball Championship here Tuesday.

Having lost to the Railways Monday night, Haryana came up with a spirited effort to overcome Karnataka … Read more >>>.

In-form Kohli says can’t take his place for granted

NEW DELHI – Virat Kohli has forced his way into the top order of the Indian batting, pushing stronger candidates out on the back of his roaring form this season. The Delhi youngster wants to carry on in the same vein in South Africa and then into the 2011 World Cup in the sub-continent.

The …. Source  : In-form Kohli says can’t take his place for granted.

SA coach’s remarks show they are under pressure: Raman

NEW DELHI – Former India opening batsman Woorkeri Venkat Raman says that it is South Africa who are under pressure, not the Indians, as their coach Corrie va Zyl has claimed ahead of the Test series getting under way Thursday.

“Van Zyl is just playing the usual mind games most Test teams indulge in, …. Source article  : SA coach’s remarks show they are under pressure: Raman.

A. J. Burnett’s Divorce: True Or False?

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com)- On Wednesday morning, when radio host Colin Cowherd told his listeners his thoughts about why New York Yankees player A. J. Burnett is not being able to give an impressive performance this season, he surely could not have imagined the controversy that was all set to ensue. During his ESPN show, …. Source  : A. J. Burnett’s Divorce: True Or False?.

Dokic, Molik set up semi-final showdown at Australian Open

MELBOURNE – Former Australian Open quarter-finalists Alicia Molik and Jelena Dokic Thursday set up a high-profile weekend semi-final as the two battle for a wildcard entry into next month’s Grand Slam.

Top seed Molik, ranked 130th, came from a set down to overpower Alison Bai in group play 3-6, 6-3, 6-1. Dokic, a Wimbledon semi-finalist …. Read the original article  : Dokic, Molik set up semi-final showdown at Australian Open.

Footballer hangs himself after fiancee’s affair

LONDON – A professional club-level goalkeeper in Britain hanged himself after he found out that his fiance was having an affair.

Dale Roberts, 24, was found dead in his flat Tuesday. He was due to play for the Rushden and Diamonds club in an FA Cup Trophy match against Eastwood Town club but failed to …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Footballer hangs himself after fiancee’s affair.

Bell, Broad might be better candidates than Cook to lead England: Vaughan

LONDON – Michael Vaughan has said that opener Alastair Cook is not certain to take over from Andrew Strauss as England captain, and added that Ian Bell or all-rounder Stuart Broad might be better candidates than Cook.

Cook, 25, is regarded by England’s management as 33- … Original article on : Bell, Broad might be better candidates than Cook to lead England: Vaughan.

Bob Feller Dies At 92

CLEVELAND (GaeaTimes.com)- Bob Feller, the Hall of Famer pitcher who is also regarded as the one of the very best right-handers in the history of baseball, passed away on Wednesday night after suffering from acute leukemia for quite a long period of time. The right-handed pitcher who had earned the nickname of ‘The Heater …. Original source  : Bob Feller Dies At 92.

Rain delays start of India-South Africa Test

CENTURION – The start of the first cricket Test between India and South Africa has been delayed Thursday due to a wet outfield at the SuperSport Park.

The toss, scheduled for 10 a.m. local time ((IST 1.30 p.m.), has been delayed due to a wet outfield following persistent rain in the last couple of days.
…. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Rain delays start of India-South Africa Test.

Meet the Simone Callahan who is not Shane Warne’s wife

MELBOURNE – A woman from Geelong, Australia, is constantly being mistaken for former cricketer Shane Warne’s ex-wife Simone Callahan, and the reason is – both ladies share the same name.

The Simone Callahan, who in no way is associated with Warne, 41, has garnered a lot of international attention ever since news of his having an … Original article on : Meet the Simone Callahan who is not Shane Warne’s wife.

Oz players must counter criticism with performance: Nielsen

SYDNEY – Australia’s coach Tim Nielsen has asked his players not to hide from criticism, but counter it by performing.

“We are 1-0 down in the series, and it seems like the world will cave in. That is, if you happen to pick up any of the media publications currently dissecting how and why we are … Original source on Gaea Times at : Oz players must counter criticism with performance: Nielsen.

Goalkeeper commits suicide after fiancee cheats with John Terry’s bro

LONDON – A young goalkeeper hanged himself after his fiancee cheated on him with his teammate – who is the older brother of Chelsea star John Terry.

Dale Roberts, 24, killed himself after his 25-year-old partner Lindsay Cowen had an affair with his Rushden and Diamonds teammate Paul Terry, reports the Daily Mail.

Lindsay left …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Goalkeeper commits suicide after fiancee cheats with John Terry’s bro.

Warned rules out comeback, says he is not match fit

MELBOURNE – Australian spin legend Shane Warne has turned down the request of his fans to make a comeback in the national side, saying he is not fit enough to meet the rigorous demands of Test cricket.

Warne, who is in Perth for the third Ashes Test, feels that … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Warned rules out comeback, says he is not match fit.

Bollinger claims he was fully fit to play Perth Test

SYDNEY – New South Wales fats bowler Doug Bollinger has said he was fit and had fully recovered from a side strain that had ruled him out of the start of the domestic summer, and added that his fitness shouldn’t have been an issue going into the … Original article on : Bollinger claims he was fully fit to play Perth Test.

‘Drunk’ Sami faces investigation over hotel brawl

KARACHI – Pakistani fast bowler and Karachi Blues captain Mohammad Sami is under investigation after being accused of brawling and damaging hotel furniture while drunk, Karachi City Cricket Association (KCCA) President Siraj Bukhari has said.

The incident took place on Tuesday at …. Original article  : ‘Drunk’ Sami faces investigation over hotel brawl.

‘Recuperating’ Tanvir ruled out of Pak tour of New Zealand

LAHORE – Pakistani fast bowler Sohail Tanvir has been ruled out of the tour to New Zealand with a knee injury.

Tanvir was named in the Test and Twenty20 squads announced last month, but the selectors had made it clear that his trip would be subject to fitness, as the left-arm … Original source on Gaea Times at : ‘Recuperating’ Tanvir ruled out of Pak tour of New Zealand.

Ponting may be axed as captain if Australia loses Ashes

MELBOURNE – Ricky Ponting has said he may have to step down as Australian skipper if the Ashes series is lost.

Defeat in Perth, would force Ponting and selectors to face the question of his captaincy head-on, but it is doubtful the selectors …. Read the original article  : Ponting may be axed as captain if Australia loses Ashes.

PAOK, Sevilla and Napoli advance in Europa League

BERLIN – Greek club PAOK, Sevilla and Napoli Wednesday advanced to the knock-out stage of the Europa League.

PAOK managed to secure a 1-0 victory at Dinamo Zagreb in a Group D game, while Sevilla played to a 2-2 draw against Borussia Dortmund in their Group J match.
Napoli, meanwhile, scored a last-gasp goal three …. Source  : PAOK, Sevilla and Napoli advance in Europa League.

Inter breeze past Seongnam into Club World Cup final

ABU DHABI – Inter Milan beat Seongnam Ilhwa Chunma 3-0 Wednesday to advance to the final of the Club World Cup with goals from Dejan Stankovic, veteran captain Javier Zanetti and Diego Milito.

The Champions League winners will face the African champions TP Mazembe in Saturday’s final. The team from the Democratic Republic of Congo …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Anand has same points as Carlsen, but trails in tie-break

LONDON – Viswanathan Anand played out a draw against Michael Adams but Magnus Carlsen escaped with a draw against Vladimir Kramnik in the sixth round of the London Classic Chess Wednesday.

In the London Classic, a win fetches three points and a draw one. Carlsen, Anand and McShane have 10 points each. Carlsen has … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Anand has same points as Carlsen, but trails in tie-break.

Bombay High Court stays Kings XI Punjab’s termination from IPL

MUMBAI – The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) suffered yet another legal setback for the second consecutive day on Wednesday with a division bench of the Bombay High Court dismissing its appeal against the court’s …. Source article  : Bombay High Court stays Kings XI Punjab’s termination from IPL.

Saina pulls out of Indian Open

HYDERABAD – India’s badminton star Saina Nehwal has pulled out of the ongoing Indian Open with an ankle injury she sustained during her title win at the Hong Kong Super Series.

“The injury happened while playing the final of the Hong Kong Super Series. I experienced a jerk on my right ankle in the third …. Source  : Saina pulls out of Indian Open.

Not thinking too much about 50th Test ton: Tendulkar

CENTURION – India’s batting maestro Sachin Tendulkar is not thinking too much about his 50th Test ton but wants to focus on preparing for the first cricket Test against South Africa starting here Thursday.

“I believe in destiny. When it is destined to happen it will happen. I am not thinking too much about it. …. Original article  : Not thinking too much about 50th Test ton: Tendulkar.

Ben Henderson Fails To Win Last WEC

SAN FRANCISCO (GaeaTimes.com)- Last night’s fight between Ben Henderson and Anthony Pettis saw the latter coming out victorious after the former failed to succumb to the final moment kick of Anthony Pettis. It was the last WEC fight as after this the fighters will once again retire back to the world of the UFC for … Read more »»».

Dravid pips Lara to become third highest scorer in Test history

JOHANNESBURG – Indian cricketer Rahul Dravid has overtaken former West Indian captain Brain Lara as the third highest run-getter in the history of Test cricket.

Dravid achieved this feat after reaching 11 runs in the first of the three-match series against South Africa, the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Dravid pips Lara to become third highest scorer in Test history.

Ancelotti says he’s ‘going to stay at Chelsea until 2012???

LONDON – Carlo Ancelotti has refuted suggestions that he is thinking of quitting as the manager of Chelsea on the pretext that he is no longer in control of the team.

According to sources, Ancelotti was still unhappy about the dismissal of assistant coach Ray [..] Read the original article: here.

Hamilton persuaded McLaren to sign ‘world-champion’ Button

LONDON – British Formula One ace Lewis Hamilton has revealed that he had persuaded McLaren boss Martin Whitmarsh to sign Jenson Button as his McLaren team-mate for the 2010 season.

“I do remember saying to Martin, ‘Have you spoken to Jenson?’ He said, ‘You know what, I haven’t’,” the Sun quoted …. Source  : Hamilton persuaded McLaren to sign ‘world-champion’ Button.

Dominic Cork signs up for ‘Dancing on Ice’

LONDON – Former England cricketer Dominic Cork has signed up for the new series of ‘Dancing on Ice’.

Cork, who still plays for Hampshire, will be the only sportsman to don skates in the new run of the hit ITV1 show next month, reports the Sun.

And he’s hoping to carry on in the tradition of … Original article on : Dominic Cork signs up for ‘Dancing on Ice’.

Pak runaway wicketkeeper Zulqarnain ’still waiting’ for decision on UK asylum plea

ISLAMABAD – Runaway Pakistani wicketkeeper Zulqarnain Haider, who had suddenly fled to London during a series against South Africa in Dubai early last month, is still waiting for a decision on his application for asylum in the United Kingdom.

After threatening to expose corrupt people in Pakistan cricket on his Facebook page recently, Zulqarnain had surprisingly …. Original source  : Pak runaway wicketkeeper Zulqarnain ’still waiting’ for decision on UK asylum plea.

Carlos Tevez spotted kissing and cuddling mystery girl

LONDON – Manchester United striker Carlos Tevez was spotted kissing and cuddling a blonde girl.

The striker couldn’t keep his hands off the mystery girl as they took the train to London.

“Carlos kept his arm around her for most of the journey and they giggled like a couple in love,” the Sun quoted an onlooker as [..] Read the original article: here.

Distance wreaking havoc on Hurley, Warne’s romance

MELBOURNE – Distance seems to be wreaking havoc on the alleged romance between actress Elizabeth Hurley and former cricketer Shane Warne.

The two lovebirds have been posting updates about their relationship on Twitter, but recently Warne, 41, who is in Perth for the Ashes, has been sounding a bit glum as he tweeted from his … Original article on : Distance wreaking havoc on Hurley, Warne’s romance.

Oz firms for legal action against Delhi CWG organizers over unpaid millions

MELBOURNE – Australian companies are planning to take legal action against the organizers of the New Delhi Commonwealth Games, claiming they are still owed millions for their work and are being blocked from taking their equipment out of India.

Australian Ric Birch, the executive producer of the Delhi opening and closing ceremonies, said about 15 … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Oz firms for legal action against Delhi CWG organizers over unpaid millions.

ICC extends ’scandal-hit’ Pak’s deadline for naming World Cup squad until Jan 5

LAHORE – The International Cricket Council (ICC) has extended its deadline for Pakistan to name their preliminary squad of 30 players for next year’s World Cup until January 5.

ICC spokesman Samiul Hasan said that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had requested for the extension, the Daily Times reports.

On Wednesday, the integrity committee of the PCB …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

I’m a better bowler than three years ago against India, says Tremlett

PERTH – England fast bowler Chris Tremlett, who helped his team skittle Australia for 268 in their first innings in the third Ashes Test, insists that his injury woes are now behind him, and he is a better cricketer than when he notched three Tests against India in 2007.

Former Australian leg-spinner Shane Warne had labelled …. Source article  : I’m a better bowler than three years ago against India, says Tremlett.

Hussey backs ‘champion’ Ponting to prove his critics wrong

PERTH – Australian batsman Mike Hussey has backed captain Ricky Ponting to overhaul his troubled Ashes campaign and bounce back to his best form in the remaining Tests of the five-match series.

Ponting, who has posted scores of 10, 51, 0 and nine for an average of 23.3 in the first two Tests, managed only 12 …. Source  : Hussey backs ‘champion’ Ponting to prove his critics wrong.

Teenaged Tomic replaces Hewitt as latest Australian tennis villain

MELBOURNE – Teenager Bernard Tomic is fast replacing Lleyton Hewitt as a target of the media after opting out sick from the wildcard playoffs for next month’s Australian Open.

Tomic, who has courted previous controversies, reportedly felt that he would be awarded a wildcard entry in any case so called in sick for the playoff … Read more »»».

FIH accommodate Pakistan in 2011 Champions Trophy

CHENNAI – With hosts India getting an automatic entry in the 2011 men’s Champions Trophy, the International Hockey Federation (FIH) has expanded the field from six to eight to accommodate Pakistan.

The Indian mens and womens teams will be figuring in two World-level tournaments in 2011 according a FIH release.
The elite tournament traditionally reserved … Original source on Gaea Times at : FIH accommodate Pakistan in 2011 Champions Trophy.

Lee, Hodge named in Oz 30-man 2011 World Cup squad

SYDNEY – Experienced fast bowler Brett Lee and batsman Brad Hodge have been included in Australia’s 30-man squad for next year’s World Cup in the subcontinent.

Lee has retired from Test cricket, but has been in great one-day form for his domestic team New South Wales, while Hodge has also … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Lee, Hodge named in Oz 30-man 2011 World Cup squad.

Holders Atletico Madrid crash out of Europa Cup in first stage

LONDON – Holders Atletico Madrid suffered a humiliating first-stage exit in this season’s Europa Cup Thursday after they could only finish third in their group following a draw at Bayern Leverkusen.

In a match played in snowy conditions in Germany, Fran Merida’s 72nd-minute equaliser gave Atletico hope, but Patrick Helmes’ goal for Leverkusen was enough … Read more : Holders Atletico Madrid crash out of Europa Cup in first stage.

India in dire straits against South Africa

CENTURION – South African fast bowlers Dale Steyn and Morne Morkel ripped apart the Indian batting on the rain-affected opening day of the first cricket Test here Thursday.

Steyn (3/34) and Morkel (4/20) reveled in helpful conditions as India were left struggling at 136 for nine in the first innings after just 38.1 overs of …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : India in dire straits against South Africa.

Scoreboard: India vs South Africa, Day One, First Test

CENTURION – The following is the scoreboard at the end of first days play of the first cricket Test between India and South Africa at the Super Sport Park here Thursday.

India 1st innings:
Gautam Gambhir c Harris b Morkel 5
Virender Sehwag c Amla b Steyn 0
Rahul Dravid lbw b Morkel 14
Sachin …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Scoreboard: India vs South Africa, Day One, First Test.

India end day at 136/9 against South Africa

CENTURION – India were 136 for nine in the first innings at the close of the rain-affected opening day’s play of the first cricket Test match against South Africa at the Super Sport Park here Thursday.

Indian skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni was batting on 33 and debutant Jaydev Unadkat was on one when the stumps …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : India end day at 136/9 against South Africa.

Karnataka, Punjab advance in National Volleyball

CHENNAI – Expectedly, Karnataka and Punjab completed the mens quarter-finals line-up with straight forward victories in the Velammal Silver Jubilee Senior National volleyball championships, here Thursday.

In the final play-offs, Punjab got past Orissa 3-0 while Karnataka outplayed Andhra Pradesh also in straight games.
Uttar Pradesh and Himachal Pradesh progressed to the next round without … Original article on : Karnataka, Punjab advance in National Volleyball.

Ranji Trophy: Railways in quarters with innings win over Bengal

NEW DELHI – Bengal suffered a humiliating innings and 10-run defeat against the Railways, who qualified for the quarterfinals of the Ranji Trophy Super League here Saturday.

It was a great turnaround for the Railways, who were lying sixth in the eight-team Group, but won two back-to-back matches to make the quarterfinals.
They defeated Delhi … Read more : Ranji Trophy: Railways in quarters with innings win over Bengal.

Federer, Nadal ready to rally for charity next week

ZURICH – Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal have begun preparations for next week’s pair of benefit exhibitions, with each man playing for free at the event sponsored by his rival’s personal charity.

The clash between top-ranked Nadal and the number two Federer, who ended 2010 just a fortnight ago by winning the World Tour Finals … Read more >>.

Eastern Washington Wins Against Villanova

CHENEY (GaeaTimes.com)- The Eastern Washington Eagles have finally made it. Yes, the Eagles are just a step away from winning the Football Championship Subdivision championship title. Last night, the Eastern Washington Eagles defeated the Villanova Wildcats in the semi-final by 41-31 making their way for first time to the FCS final. They will compete for … Read : Eastern Washington Wins Against Villanova.

Brett Lee’s Indian ‘love affair’

SYDNEY – Australian fast bowler Brett Lee has reiterated his love for India, where he is involved in various ventures like a clothing line, modeling assignments, a television deal and Bollywood roles.

“I have a passion for India and I always feel very welcome every time I … Read more »».

Ashes stars ’sledge’ each other over semi-naked photo shoot for gay mag

LONDON – The Ashes in Australia recently saw a clash between its star players, with two shouting abuse at each other on the pitch.ngland’s James Anderson and Australia’s Mitchell Johnson, 29, are said to have exchanged undignified comments in the current test match – …. Original article  : Ashes stars ’sledge’ each other over semi-naked photo shoot for gay mag.

Indian gold medallist ignored by authorities, leaves event midway

LUCKNOW – Indian athlete and Asiad gold medallist Sudha Singh left a racing event midway in a huff here Saturday after being “completely ignored” by the Uttar Pradesh state sports authorities.

Singh, who clinched the gold medal in the women’s 3000 metres event at the Asian Games in Guangzhou, was invited as a guest in … Read more »».

Gascoigne’s ex-wife gets undisclosed libel damages from UK paper

LONDON – Troubled footballer Paul Gascoigne’s ex-wife has got undisclosed libel damages over a newspaper report based on allegations by her former mother-in-law and other family members.

Sheryl Gascoigne had complained about a March 2009 story in the Sunday Mirror headlined “I blame Sheryl”.

At the High Court in London, her solicitor, Roderick Chisholm-Batten, told the …. Source article  : Gascoigne’s ex-wife gets undisclosed libel damages from UK paper.

Pietersen branded ’smarta***’ by Johnson

LONDON – England batsman Kevin Pietersen, who irritated pacer Mitchell Johnson by sarcastically asking for his phone number on Thursday and again yesterday, was branded a ’smarta***’ by the Australian speedster, as sledging took centrestage at the Ashes.

“I think he was being a bit of a smarta***. I don’t think he was being friendly,” … Original article on : Pietersen branded ’smarta***’ by Johnson.

India’s Sardara, Rani in hockey All Star squads

CHENNAI – Only two Indians, defender Sardara Singh and forward Rani Rampal, figure in the International Hockey Federation’s (FIH) All Star men and women’s teams for 2010.

Sardara Singh, who began his career as a forward and then shifted to the midfield before converting to a sweeper-back, has had an outstanding career and is among … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : India’s Sardara, Rani in hockey All Star squads.

Footage of 2009 South Africa series ‘re-energised’ Johnson to fly in Perth Test

PERTH – Australian fast bowler Mitchell Johnson has revealed that watching video footage of his devastating series against South Africa last year has helped him rediscover his ruthless in-swinger.

Johnson snared six for 38 to leave Australia in the box seat after two days of action in the third Test at the WACA Ground.

“I think …. Source  : Footage of 2009 South Africa series ‘re-energised’ Johnson to fly in Perth Test.

UDRS system’s use in doubt for New Zealand-Pakistan series

WELLINGTON – New Zealand and Pakistan want to use the umpiring review system in their Test and ODI series, but might not be allowed to as the International Cricket Council is having discussions with technology providers, which want UDRS to be in place for all series rather than being used on a case-by-case basis.

The ICC … Read more : UDRS system’s use in doubt for New Zealand-Pakistan series.

Beckham to get BBC Lifetime Achievement award

LONDON – Ace midfielder David Beckham has been selected for the BBC Sports Personality Lifetime Achievement award.

The lifetime honour is one of several awards, which will be presented during the BBC Sports Personality of the Year show on Sunday.

The 35-year-old midfielder is England’s most capped outfield player and has won six Premier League titles and … Original article on : Beckham to get BBC Lifetime Achievement award.

‘Ponting should take inspiration from ‘morphed’ Tendulkar to resurrect his batting’

SYDNEY – Australian skipper Ricky Ponting should take inspiration from Indian batting maestro Sachin Tendulkar in order to resurrect his fading batting form, a noted cricket columnist has said.

Ponting, who has posted scores of 10, 51, 0 and nine for an average of 23.3 in the first two Tests, managed only 12 runs in Australia’s …. Source article  : ‘Ponting should take inspiration from ‘morphed’ Tendulkar to resurrect his batting’.

Hughes must improve his ‘awful’ technique for a future in cricket: Jones

SYDNEY – Australian opening batsman Phillip Hughes must get his technique right if he wants to be a part of the national team on a long-term basis, according to former batsman Dean Jones.

Hughes disappointed again by scoring two and 12 in the ongoing third Test, and is yet to make a decent score in his … Read more : Hughes must improve his ‘awful’ technique for a future in cricket: Jones.

Anderson’s sledging ‘fired me up’ in Perth Ashes Test: Johnson

PERTH – Australian fast bowler Mitchell Johnson has credited his England counterpart James Anderson’s persistent sledging for inspiring his six-wicket haul that has revived the home team’s Ashes campaign.

Anderson sledged Johnson relentlessly throughout his innings of 62 on day one of the ongoing third Test at Perth’s WACA Ground.

“Jimmy [Anderson] tried giving me a bit … Original source on Gaea Times at : Anderson’s sledging ‘fired me up’ in Perth Ashes Test: Johnson.

Atletico Madrid announce signing of midfielder Elias

MADRID – Spanish giants Atletico Madrid announced Friday the signing of Brazilian international midfielder Elias from Corinthians, for an undisclosed fee.

Elias, 25, will fly into Madrid Monday to undergo medical checks and to sign a four-year contract. He will be eligible to play for Atletico from Jan 1.
According to media reports, Atletico are … Read : Atletico Madrid announce signing of midfielder Elias.

Footballer Cassano expected to be traded to Milan

Milan, Dec 18 (IANS/AKI) Antonio Cassano is due to join AC Milan in January after his agent agreed to terms of a three and a half-year deal with the club that will expire in 2014, according to Italian news reports.

Sampdoria had been seeking to have the striker’s contract rescinded for gross misconduct after … Read : Footballer Cassano expected to be traded to Milan.

FIFA boss Sepp Blatter sorry for ‘gay’ remarks

LONDON – FIFA president Sepp Blatter has apologised for saying gay fans should “refrain from sexual activity” if they go to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, BBC reported Friday.

Homosexuality is illegal in Qatar and Blatter’s original comments provoked outrage among gay rights groups who said he should apologise or resign.
Blatter …. Original article  : FIFA boss Sepp Blatter sorry for ‘gay’ remarks.

Unbeaten centuries from Kallis and Amla agonise India (Roundup)

CENTURION – Unbeaten centuries from Hashim Amla and Jacques Kallis powered South Africa to a mammoth 366 for two in the first innings against India on the second day of the first cricket Test here Friday.

At close, Amla was batting on 116 and Kallis 102 as South Africa opened up a lead of 230 …. Original source  : Unbeaten centuries from Kallis and Amla agonise India (Roundup).

Kerala spike Haryana, enter volleyball semis

CHENNAI – Playing an inspired game, Kerala knocked out fancied Haryana in straight sets en route to the mens semi-finals of the Velammal Silver Jubilee Senior National volleyball championship here Friday.

Joining Kerala in the semis were Tamil Nadu who pounded Karnataka 3-0 while the Indian Railways overcame Services 3-1 and Uttarkhand ousted Punjab 3-0.
… Original article on : Kerala spike Haryana, enter volleyball semis.

Spot-fixing case: Butt does not trust ICC’s inquiry tribunal to impart justice

ISLAMABAD – The confrontation between suspended Pakistan Test captain Salman Butt and the International Cricket Council (ICC) has taken a serious turn following the disclosure that he had told the governing body about his no-confidence in the inquiry tribunal that will hear the spot-fixing case next month.

In his 36-page reply to the ICC, Butt demanded … Original source on Gaea Times at : Spot-fixing case: Butt does not trust ICC’s inquiry tribunal to impart justice.

Vaughan wants Bell to bat at No.5 position

LONDON – Former England captain Michael Vaughan wants batsman Ian Bell up the batting order to make the most of his run-making ability in the Ashes series.

Bell was England’s first innings top scorer with 53, despite batting at six in the Perth Test.

“It’s a travesty – you can’t have a guy playing that [..] Read the original article: here.

Vettori to lose controversial selection powers

WELLINGTON – The New Zealand Cricket board might replace coach Mark Greatbatch and take away skipper Daniel Vettori’s controversial selection powers after the disastrous tour of India.

Former India coach Wright is seen as the public’s favourite to replace him, but it’s understood no decision on the Black Caps coach has been made yet.

An extensive … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Vettori to lose controversial selection powers.

Roma stun leaders AC Milan in Serie A

ROME – Roma won 1-0 away to leaders AC Milan Saturday in a classic Serie A tie played at freezing temperatures at the Giuseppe Meazza.

Marco Borriello found a lucky deflection in the second half to score Roma’s winner against his ex-club.
The Devils displayed the usual grit only early in the game and lost …. Source  : Roma stun leaders AC Milan in Serie A.

PCB extends deadline for Malik, Akmal, Kaneria to answer Integrity Committee’s queries

LAHORE – The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has allowed former skipper Shoaib Malik, wicket-keeper Kamran Akmal and leg-spinner Danish Kaneria to submit their replies to the Integrity Committee’s queries by the end of this month.

Well-informed sources told Dawn that the three players, who are … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : PCB extends deadline for Malik, Akmal, Kaneria to answer Integrity Committee’s queries.

Rooney’s hooker dreads the day her son would hear about her past

LONDON – Ex call girl Helen Wood, who had threesome with soccer ace Wayne Rooney while his wife Coleen was pregnant, has revealed that she fears the day her seven-year-old son would hear about his mum’s seedy past.

“I had to explain to my mum what had been going on. It didn’t go …. Read the original article  : here.

Oz selectors got it right playing four pacers: Fleming

MELBOURNE – The selectors have justified their decision to take four fast bowlers into the third Ashes Test, as Australia beat England to tie the series 1-1, according to Damien Fleming.

Most of the people thought that spinner Michael Beer would be included in the … Original article on : Oz selectors got it right playing four pacers: Fleming.

Blackburn Rovers’ Indian owner criticized for sacking coach

LONDON – Anuradha Desai, the chairwoman of Venky’s, an Indian poultry empire, has been criticized for sacking Blackburn Rovers’ coach Sam Allardyce.

According to the Daily Mail, Desai’s criticism of Allardyce’s methods, transfer deals and the club’s mid-table league position have not gone … Read : Blackburn Rovers’ Indian owner criticized for sacking coach.

Oz fans support team’s aggression during Perth Test

SYDNEY – The Australian team’s decision to use aggression and intimidation in a final desperate bid to win the Perth Test has the blessings of the game’s administrators and supporters.

Paceman Mitchell Johnson’s admission of calculated sledging was met with tacit approval by Cricket Australia … Read more »»».

Rashard Lewis Joins Washington Wizards

ORLANDO (GaeaTimes.com)- Yesterday, the news have been confirmed that Rashard Lewis is all set to play for the Washington Wizards for the next two seasons leaving his old team, Orlando Magic. On the other hand, a very precious player from Washington Wizards, Gilbert Arenas, would be incorporated in Orlando Magics, for the next … Read more : Rashard Lewis Joins Washington Wizards.

Another exhibition from Barcelona, a late win for Valencia

MADRID – Barcelona turned on the style yet again to thrash Espanyol 5-1 in a one-sided Catalan derby, with two goals apiece from winger Pedro and striker David Villa and one from playmaker Xavi.

Pablo Osvaldo pulled a goal back for Espanyol but the hosts – who had won all their previous home matches – … Read : Another exhibition from Barcelona, a late win for Valencia.

Ponting must remain captain as Clarke is not ready to lead: Chappell

MELBOURNE – Australian selector Greg Chappell has said that Ricky Ponting must remain Test captain because there are no obvious successors at present.

In an interview that would completely change the landscape of Australian cricket, Chappell believes Clarke is still captaincy material, but his form has become a serious impediment to his leadership aspirations.

“If we’re going …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Ponting must remain captain as Clarke is not ready to lead: Chappell.

Ferguson is the greatest, says Capello

LONDON – England manager Fabio Capello has hailed Manchester United coach Sir Alex Ferguson as the best manager of all time.

The Scot has become the longest-serving boss in Manchester United history, and at 69, Ferguson is receiving deserved plaudits from across the game for his phenomenal 24 years at Old Trafford, the Daily Express reports.

With … Read : Ferguson is the greatest, says Capello.

Bernard Hopkins Vs Jean Pascal Fight Ends In Draw

QUEBEC CITY (GaeaTimes.com)- It was a hard hitting light weight championship match between Canadian boxer Jean Pascal and Philadelphia boxer Bernard Hopkins on Saturday night and the match was settled on a majority draw in favor of the former. American judge Steve Morrow have 114-112 to Bernard Hopkins, however, both Canadian and Belgian judges, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Humanitarian Bowl Marks Fresno State Bulldogs’ Defeat

BOISE (GaeaTimes.com)- The Humanitarian Bowl took place yesterday, to clash between the Northern Illinois Huskies and the Fresno State Bulldogs. Like many people had anticipated, the match went in favor of the Huskies with a final score of 40-17.
Although the first quarter of the Humanitarian Bowl was very much in favor of the Bulldogs, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Harris helps Aussies level Ashes series with six wicket haul

PERTH – Australia levelled the Ashes series through a crushing 267-run victory over England at the WACA ground here on Sunday.

Right-arm South Australian fast bowler Ryan Harris took a Test-best 6 for 47 to humble England. The visitors were blown away in 10 overs on the fourth morning to set up a potentially thrilling conclusion … Original article on : Harris helps Aussies level Ashes series with six wicket haul.

Ralph Friedgen Out Of Maryland Terrapins?

COLLEGE PARK (GaeaTimes.com)- The head coach of University of Maryland’s football team, Ralph Friedgen has been, reportedly, asked by the university officials to step down from his post for the next season. Sources close to the team said that if Ralph Friedgen refuses to retire from his post then the university board will have [..] Read the original article: here.

Liz Hurley ‘dumps Shane Warne over sex text scandal’

MELBOURNE – Liz Hurley has apparently dumped Shane Warne after learning that the cricketer had sent sexual text messages to a married Australian woman.

An Australian man, Denis Angeleri, claims his wife, Adele, was wooed by Warne with a series of explicit texts, according to the News Of The World and The Sunday Mirror.

The pair had …. Original article  : Liz Hurley ‘dumps Shane Warne over sex text scandal’.

Humpy loses to China’s Yifan for second straight time

HATAY – For the second successive time, India’s top rated player in the competition Koneru Humpy crashed out to Chinas 16-year-old Hou Yifan in the semi-finals of the Women’s World Chess Championship.

Faced with a must-win situation in the second game of the semi-finals, the Indian star managed only a draw after losing the first …. Source  : Humpy loses to China’s Yifan for second straight time.

Sehwag, Gambhir depart after giving India a promising start (Roundup)

CENTURION – Openers Virender Sehwag and Gautam Gambhir hit half centuries as India made a promising start in the second innings against South Africa and reduced the deficit to 294 at the close of third days play in the first cricket Test here Saturday.

Sehwag (63) and Gambhir (80) added 137 runs for the first …. Source article  : Sehwag, Gambhir depart after giving India a promising start (Roundup).

‘Tuck Rule’ Becomes Charles Woodson’s Nightmare

LOS ANGELES (GaeaTimes.com)- Even after about 9 years, Charles Woodson, cornerback of Green Bay Packers is unable to forget the Tuck Rule that had taken place years ago. Till date he gets nightmares when he recalls the time he had been a player for the Oakland Raiders. The incident was that in a match …. Source  : ‘Tuck Rule’ Becomes Charles Woodson’s Nightmare.

Green Bay Packers Deserved Victory Last Night

FOXBOROUGH (GaeaTimes.com)- Last night the Green Bay Packers put up an extremely impressive start and continued with it but to their dismay lost out the game at the end. Matt Flynn from the Packers side shot up like a wizard last night but ultimately had to bend down in front of opponent Tom Brady. It …. Original article  : Green Bay Packers Deserved Victory Last Night.

Pup Clarke is ready to be Oz skipper, but he’ll have to wait: Border

MELBOURNE – Former Australian cricket captain Allan Border believes that Michael Clarke is ready to captain Australia, but says that he will have to wait till Ricky Ponting decides to give up that role.

Clarke won’t get his chance in the Boxing Day Ashes Test, Fox Sports cricket commentator Border said.

Border further said that Clarke … Read more : Pup Clarke is ready to be Oz skipper, but he’ll have to wait: Border.

Qadir’s ‘googly gift’ revived Afridi’s career as a match-winning bowler

KARACHI – Former Pakistani spinner Abdul Qadir has revealed that he was the man behind the turnaround in ODI and Twenty20 captain Shahid Afridi’s fortunes and abilities.

Qadir said that when Afridi’s bowling was suffering a lean patch during early 2009, he had visited the all-rounder at one of the local camps.

“I spoke to him … Read : Qadir’s ‘googly gift’ revived Afridi’s career as a match-winning bowler.

Warne slammed by hubby of Oz mom he sent sexually explicit texts

MELBOURNE – The husband of the Melbourne woman, who former cricketer Shane Warne had been sending sexually explicit texts to, has taken to Twitter to reveal how the player tried to steal his wife.

Denis Angeleri came to know about the text Warne, 41, sent to his wife Adele Angeleri, 44, and a furious bust-up took …. Original article  : Warne slammed by hubby of Oz mom he sent sexually explicit texts.

Yousuf gets a chance to make cut for World Cup probables

KARACHI – Pakistan batsman Mohammad Yousuf has now a chance to prove his fitness and make the cut for his country’s World Cup squad after the International Cricket Council (ICC) gave the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) time up to January 5 to announce its 30-man provisional squad.

The PCB had asked the ICC to …. Source article  : Yousuf gets a chance to make cut for World Cup probables.

Matt Flynn Makes A Smooth Ride

FOXBOROUGH (GaeaTimes.com)- Matt Flynn was the main game for Sunday’s NFL, that clashed between Green Bay Packers and the New England Patriots at the Gillette Stadium. Although Green Bay Packers lost the game with a slight margin of 31-27, it was Matt Flynn who revived the spirit of the team with his rigorous performance. … Read more : Matt Flynn Makes A Smooth Ride.

Scoreboard: India vs South Africa, First Test

CENTURION – Scoreboard of the first India-South Africa cricket Test which ended here Monday:

India: first innings 136 all out
South Africa: first innings 620/4 decl.
India second innings: (overnight 454/8)
Gautam Gambhir lbw Steyn 80
Virender Sehwag c Smith b Harris 63
Rahul Dravid c Boucher b Morkel 43
Ishant Sharma c … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Scoreboard: India vs South Africa, First Test.

South Africa beat India by innings and 25 runs

CENTURION – India’s resistance lasted a little less than six overs on the fifth and final day as it lost the first cricket Test against Suth Africa by an innings and 25 runs here Monday.

India could add only five runs from their overnight score of 454 for 8 as Dale Steyn and Mornie Morkel … Read more >>>.

Vijay Mallya hands over Mohun Bagan baton to son

NEW DELHI – Adhering to Asian Football Confederation (AFC) regulations, liquor baron Vijay Mallya has resigned as the director of the Mohun Bagan football club but remains the chairman of East Bengal.

Mallya’s decision to quit was taken at Mohun Bagan’s Dec 16 board meeting in Kolkata.
Prince Rufus, operations manager of Mohun Bagan, said … Read : Vijay Mallya hands over Mohun Bagan baton to son.

Ashes: Ponting believes Johnson spell could set up series

PERTH – Australian cricket captain Ricky Ponting believes that given his present rip-roaring form, left-arm fast bowler Mitchell Johnson, has set up the remaining part of the Ashes series nicely.

Johnson’s devastating return to form (nine wickets in Perth) will be felt throughout the rest of the Ashes series, The Age quoted Ponting, as saying.

“Mitch’s spell …. Original article  : Ashes: Ponting believes Johnson spell could set up series.

Meet the blonde Oz mum who cost Warne Liz Hurley

MELBOURNE – The blonde married mum from Melbourne, who was bombarded with sexually explicit texts by former cricketer Shane Warne, is said to have been relentlessly chased by him.

According to News of the World, Warne, 41, went after Adele Angeleri, 44, after he spotted her in the street across from the office of the Shane …. Source  : Meet the blonde Oz mum who cost Warne Liz Hurley.

Ponting’s captaincy is hurting Australia: Ian Chappell

PERTH – Former Australian cricket captain and now television commentator Ian Chappell has said that incumbent skipper Ricky Ponting is trying too hard to prove he’s worthy, and adds that when he quits, wicketkeeper Brad Haddin might be Australia’s best option as a stop-gap leader

“The fact is that Ponting’s captaincy is starting to hurt the …. Original article  : Ponting’s captaincy is hurting Australia: Ian Chappell.

Chappell backs Clarke to excel as Oz skipper

MELBOURNE – Australia’s full-time selector Greg Chappell believes Michael Clarke will deliver the goods if he is asked to captain the national squad in the forthcoming Melbourne Test.

With incumbent skipper Ricky Ponting having a finger fracture, chances of Clarke taking over the squad in Melbourne have brightened.

“Michael is our next captain. Whenever that might be … Original source on Gaea Times at : Chappell backs Clarke to excel as Oz skipper.

Johnson has potential of becoming Australia’s Andrew Flintoff: Geoff Boycott

LONDON – Former England captain Geoffrey Boycott believes Mitchell Johnson has the ability to be Australia’s version of Andrew Flintoff after his man-of-the-match display in the third Ashes Test in Perth.

Johnson scored a first innings half-century and claimed nine wickets for the match as Australia levelled the series one-all with their 267-run victory at the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Johnson has potential of becoming Australia’s Andrew Flintoff: Geoff Boycott.

UK press laments third Ashes Test humiliation at WACA

LONDON – The British press has criticized England’s dismal performance in the third Ashes Test at the WACA Ground in Perth, likening the team’s pitiful display to those of England teams of old.

Sun reporter John Etheridge was scathing in his appraisal of England’s performance in Perth, describing the battering they suffered as their first taste … Read more »»».

Shane Warne’s ex-wife left devastated by his sex scandals

MELBOURNE – Former cricketer Shane Warne’s ex-wife has been left heartbroken after it emerged that her love rat hubby has been sending sexually explicit texts to a married Melbourne mum besides seeing actress Liz Hurley.

According to New Idea magazine, Simone Callahan had thought she and Warne, 41, were back together and had even considered remarrying …. Source  : Shane Warne’s ex-wife left devastated by his sex scandals.

Knowshon Moreno’s Injury Adds To His Disappointment

OAKLAND (GaeaTimes.com)- Right now the Denver Broncos are going through a bad phase after last night the team lost out to the Oakland Raider. Adding salt to the injury, running back Knowshon Moreno suffered a nasty injury during the initial stage of the match. Knowshon Moreno received an injury during the first quarter of the …. Source article  : Knowshon Moreno’s Injury Adds To His Disappointment.

Fans rush to book last Boxing Day Test tickets

MELBOURNE – Melbourne Cricket Club (MCC) CEO Stephen Gough is excited that Boxing Day could produce a Test record crowd at the MCG, even as fans are keen to grab the few tickets remaining.

“Just keep looking on the Ticketek website and just see …. Original source  : Fans rush to book last Boxing Day Test tickets.

Finn to face axe for Boxing Day Test

LONDON – Pacer Steve Finn is all set to be dropped from the England team after the third Test humiliation at the hands of Australia.

Andrew Strauss’ side was beaten by 267 runs as Australia levelled the Ashes series 1-1.

Finn is England’s top wicket-taker with 14 scalps in three Tests …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Windies star Shillingford’s bowling action found to be illegal

DUBAI – The International Cricket Council today confirmed that an independent test had found the bowling action of the West Indies’ off-spinner Shane Shillingford to be illegal and, as such, the player has been suspended from bowling in international cricket.

A comprehensive analysis revealed … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Windies star Shillingford’s bowling action found to be illegal.

ICC rankings: Tendulkar moves closer to top spot

DUBAI – Indian batsman Sachin Tendulkar has closed the gap on Sri Lanka captain Kumar Sangakkara to just two ratings points at the top of the Reliance Mobile ICC Test Rankings following his 50th Test century in the Centurion Test which finished … Original source on Gaea Times at : ICC rankings: Tendulkar moves closer to top spot.

Devin Hester Sets NFL Record

MINNEAPOLIS (GaeaTimes.com)- Monday night turned out to be a huge bash for the Chicago Bears not only for the team which won the game against the Minnesota Vikings at the TCF Bank Stadium but also for its wide receiver Devin Hester. As the Chicago Bears went on to crush the Vikings with a result of …. Source article  : Devin Hester Sets NFL Record.

Becks gets new tattoo on hairless chest

NEW YORK – Soccer star David Beckham has got a tattoo on his hairless chest.

Becks took to Facebook last week to reveal he was getting a new tattoo.

It’s unclear what the tattoo is exactly, as he posted a picture of himself mid-inking, but it rests on the left side of his chest, near his heart.

“I … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Becks gets new tattoo on hairless chest.

Ashley Cole shows off new girlfriend to Chelsea teammates

LONDON – Chelsea footballer Ashley Cole was recently spotted showing off his new girlfriend to his Chelsea teammates.

‘I’m A Celeb’ star Kayla Collins was at Mayfair club to celebrate Cole’s 30th birthday, reports the Sun.

She even took the effort of presenting the England star with a cake at midnight.

Kayla, who was due to fly home … Read : Ashley Cole shows off new girlfriend to Chelsea teammates.

Ishant dropped, Chawla in for ODI series against Proteas

MUMBAI – Fast bowler Ishant Sharma was dropped while leg-spinner Piyush Chawla made a come back after two-and-a-half years as the national selectors Tuesday announced a 16-member squad for the five-match ODI series and a Twenty20 match against South Africa.

Another notable absentee from the squad was middle order batsman Rohit Sharma, who played in …. Read the original article  : Ishant dropped, Chawla in for ODI series against Proteas.

Beckham hopes to make sensational comeback to England team

LONDON – Ace midfielder David Beckham has said that insists he still has a chance of making a sensational England comeback.

Beckham is targeting a loan move to a major European club to try to force Three Lions boss Fabio Capello to consider him for selction.

Beckham denied that he is past it, despite not …. Read the original article  : here.

Pakistan have to ‘play clean cricket’ on New Zealand tour, says coach Waqar

AUCKLAND – The Pakistan cricket team has to ‘make sure we play clean cricket’ on the tour of New Zealand, in the wake of the match-fixing allegations that have plagued Pakistan cricket, coach Waqar Younis has said.

“At the moment we are a very clean side and the boys are here to play good cricket as …. Original article  : Pakistan have to ‘play clean cricket’ on New Zealand tour, says coach Waqar.

Mourinho branded ‘cry baby’ for complaining about referees

LONDON – Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho has been branded a ‘cry baby’ for publishing a list of complaints about referees.

Mourinho showed reporters a list of 13 instances of incorrect refereeing decisions, ranging from offsides, bookings and even the length of time added on in the first half, The Sun reports.

Seville coach Unai …. Source  : Mourinho branded ‘cry baby’ for complaining about referees.

No split in Chelsea players ranks: Terry

LONDON – Skipper John Terry has issued a furious denial that there are splits in the Chelsea dressing room and insisted his team are passionate about turning around their sliding season.

The team is without a win in five league games. They go to Arsenal on Monday.

The Sun quoted Terry, as saying: “I have seen …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : No split in Chelsea players ranks: Terry.

PCB Governing Council to hold ‘crucial meeting’ on Thursday

ISLAMABAD – A crucial meeting of the Pakistan Cricket Board’s Governing Council will take place at the board headquarters on Thursday.

According to PCB sources, the governing council would discuss the audit report and accounts of the institution.

“The board members will get a briefing on the recently concluded series against South Africa in the United …. Source  : PCB Governing Council to hold ‘crucial meeting’ on Thursday.

Khawaja will be a standby for Ponting

SYDNEY – Cricket Australia (CA) Tuesday asked New South Wales batsman Usman Khawaja as a standby player for the fourth Ashes Test, if Australian captain Ricky Ponting doesn’t recover from a fractured finger.

Chairman of selectors Andrew Hilditch said Ponting will be fit in time for the Test, adding that Khawaja’s selection is only precautionary.
… Read this article on Gaea Times at : Khawaja will be a standby for Ponting.

Clark thanks Anderson for firing Aussies up with heated Perth chat

SYDNEY – Former Australian fast bowler Stuart Clark has thanked England fast bowler Jimmy Anderson for giving the Australians the required spark to win back the Ashes.

“The Perth Test was the most fiery performance I’ve seen from an Australian side since the controversial Sydney Test against India in 2008. It was after that match that … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Clark thanks Anderson for firing Aussies up with heated Perth chat.

Pak runaway wicketkeeper Zulqarnain confirms hiring new lawyer

LONDON – Runaway Pakistani wicketkeeper Zulqarnain Haider, who is presently seeking asylum in the United Kingdom, has confirmed the change of his counsel in London.

Zulqarnain verified in a message on social networking site Facebook that he had hired a new lawyer, Geo News reports.

He also stated that he was satisfied with the new counsel, adding … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Pak runaway wicketkeeper Zulqarnain confirms hiring new lawyer.

Warne questions Strauss’s leadership, says he ‘misses tricks’

MELBOURNE – Legendary spinner Shane Warne has hit out at the functioning style of Andrew Strauss, saying that the England captain “misses tricks” when it comes to tactics.

Warne believes Strauss isn’t helping his frontline spin bowler Graeme Swann, and by not using him enough is also threatening to wear out his pacers.

He said England’s pace …. Original source  : Warne questions Strauss’s leadership, says he ‘misses tricks’.

Pietersen, Swann eye mega deals in IPL IV

LONDON – Kevin Pietersen and Graeme Swann are among six England stars set for IPL deals worth more than 250,000 pounds, provided they are bought in the auction.

James Anderson, Stuart Broad, Luke Wright and Mike Yardy are also set to go under the hammer next month.

The top six World Twenty20 winners have put … Original article on : Pietersen, Swann eye mega deals in IPL IV.

US suspected Allen Stanford’s ‘Ponzi schemes’ long before ECB deal: WikiLeaks

LONDON – The United States was concerned about rumours of “bribery, money-laundering and political manipulation” surrounding Allen Stanford even before the Texan billionaire signed a 20 million deal with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) in 2008, according to a classified US diplomatic cable released by Wikileaks.

The concerns are revealed in a cable dated …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : US suspected Allen Stanford’s ‘Ponzi schemes’ long before ECB deal: WikiLeaks.

Tendulkar “a beacon of greatness representing true spirit of cricket”: Pak editorial

ISLAMABAD – Indian batting maestro Sachin Tendulkar, who created history on Sunday by becoming the first player to score 50 centuries in Test cricket, is a “beacon of greatness” representing the true spirit of the game, an editorial in a Pakistani newspaper has said.

“In the ever-changing nature of cricket because of increasing commercialisation, Sachin Tendulkar … Read more >>.

Shane Warne needs help, says pal Sir Michael Parkinson

MELBOURNE – Shane Warne’s pal and TV mentor Sir Michael Parkinson feels that the text-mad spin king needs help.

“When you see a friend who does something which causes you unhappiness you want to help, and I feel he needs help,” the [..] Read the original article: here.

Oz opener Hughes told to tighten technique if he wants to retain spot

SYDNEY – Australian opener Phil Hughes has been warned that his technique must keep getting tighter or he will be “left behind” as an international batsman.

With Simon Katich still nursing an Achilles injury, Hughes has the chance to establish himself as a Test batsman for the first time … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Oz opener Hughes told to tighten technique if he wants to retain spot.

Ryan Leaf Autobiography Coming Soon

SAN FRANCISCO (GaeaTimes.com)- Former Washington State and NFL quarterback Ryan Leaf plans to write an autobiography soon. This is the latest venture that the controversial ex footballer has planned to take up. What is more interesting to this news is that Ryan Leaf will not be penning his life story in one single book. Instead … Read more »»».

Verbal confrontations with Aussies ‘normal Ashes banter’: Pietersen

MELBOURNE – England batsman Kevin Pietersen has said that the verbal confrontations with the Australian team during the Ashes were nothing out of the ordinary.

Pietersen said he had faced some “pretty big verbal contests” from Shane Warne and Glenn McGrath during England’s previous Ashes tour four years ago.

Australian pace bowler Peter Siddle clashed verbally with …. Original article  : Verbal confrontations with Aussies ‘normal Ashes banter’: Pietersen.

Watson amazed at ‘night-watchman’ Anderson’s ’selfish’ behaviour in Perth Test

SYDNEY – Australian all rounder Shane Watson has accused England pacer James Anderson of being selfish by failing to take the strike from Paul Collingwood for the last ball of day three in Perth Test.

Watson described the decisive wicket of Collingwood as one of the best moments he had experienced in a cricket match because …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Watson amazed at ‘night-watchman’ Anderson’s ’selfish’ behaviour in Perth Test.

Pak cricketers to miss IPL again following omission from fourth edition auction list

NEW DELHI – Pakistan cricketers continue to miss out on the Indian Premier League (IPL) bonanza, as none of them were included in the auction list for next year’s mega event, according to organisers.

No Pakistan player featured in a list of 416 players, whose services will be auctioned in Bangalore on January 8 and 9 … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Pak cricketers to miss IPL again following omission from fourth edition auction list.

NZ cricket teams named for Pakistan series, World Cup

WELLINGTON – New Zealand’s cricket selectors have included three new faces in the 14-man squad for the Twenty20 international clash against Pakistan.

They have rested incumbent skipper Daniel Vettori.

According to stuff.co.nz, Australian-born Canterbury batsman Dean Brownlie, 18-year-old Central Districts quick Adam Milne and Wellington all-rounder Luke Woodcock have all been included in the squad that will …. Read the original article  : NZ cricket teams named for Pakistan series, World Cup.

Leading Black Caps eye another hefty IPL payday in 2011

WELLINGTON – Leading Black Cap players Daniel Vettori, Brendon McCullum and Ross Taylor look set for another massive payday from the fourth edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) after being named among the 21 players with the highest reserve price of 400,000 dollars for next year’s auction.

The auction will be held in Bangalore on …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Johnson opts out of IPL gravy train

MELBOURNE – Australian left-arm fast bowler Mitchell Johnson has opted out of the fourth edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL), where he could have got a 1.5 million dollar payday.

According to the Sydney Morning Herald, Johnson, skipper Ricky Ponting and vice-captain Michael Clarke are not among the 416 names released yesterday for next month’s … Original source on Gaea Times at : Johnson opts out of IPL gravy train.

Ashes 2010: Dependable Tim Bresnan to lead England fight back

MELBOURNE – Yorkshire fast bowler Tim Bresnan is strongly expected to play in the Boxing Day Test at the MCG as England plan how best to respond to their 267-run defeat at the WACA.

Bresnan’s all-round reliability has become increasingly attractive to England with Steve Finn beginning to show the effects of an exhausting debut season … Read : Ashes 2010: Dependable Tim Bresnan to lead England fight back.

UK’s Haye offers Ukraine’s Klitschko a 50-50 split for match-up

LONDON – British boxer David Haye’s trainer and manager Adam Booth has claimed he has agreed a 50-50 split in an attempt to make a match with Ukrainian rival Wladimir Klitschko next year.

“We are now perfectly positioned to get together and make this fight with Wladimir Klitschko and are ready to sign the deal both … Original source on Gaea Times at : UK’s Haye offers Ukraine’s Klitschko a 50-50 split for match-up.

England will be Melbourne marvels: Flower

MELBOURNE – Coach Andy Flower is confident that England will put up a marvelous performance during the Boxing Day Test that begins here from Sunday.

Rubbishing suggestions and reports that England had become complacent after winning the Ashes Test in Adelaide and losing the one in Perth, Flower said England have forged a strong team spirit …. Original article  : England will be Melbourne marvels: Flower.

Butt wants ICC hearing ‘put off’ to allow him to deal with possible criminal proceedings

KARACHI – Suspended Pakistan Test captain Salman Butt has said that he has asked the International Cricket Council’s anti-corruption tribunal to put off next month’s hearing so that he can deal with any possible criminal proceedings in London.

“I have requested the hearing to be put off so that I can settle the possible case in …. Source  : Butt wants ICC hearing ‘put off’ to allow him to deal with possible criminal proceedings.

Toned down aggression following ‘Bhajjigate’ has hit Australia’s performance: Marsh

SYDNEY – Fears of a backlash from Cricket Australia and the public following the bitter Sydney Test against India in 2008 has been exploited by rival teams touring Down Under, according to the Australian Cricketers’ Association.

Australia claimed a dramatic final-day victory against India at the SCG in 2008, but the result was quickly forgotten as … Read : Toned down aggression following ‘Bhajjigate’ has hit Australia’s performance: Marsh.

Amir “very confident” of coming out clean in spot-fixing case, says lawyer

KARACHI – Suspended Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir has been hit hard emotionally and financially after being implicated in the spot-fixing scandal, but is “very confident” of coming out clean, his lawyer Shahid Karim has said.

“Amir has been hit hard emotionally and financially. So early in his career, he’s been hit by this huge scandal. This …. Original article  : Amir “very confident” of coming out clean in spot-fixing case, says lawyer.

MCG Ashes pitch should be prepared in favour of Aussies: Thommo

MELBOURNE – Former Australian fast bowler Jeff Thomson has called for MCG curator Cameron Hodgkins to unashamedly doctor his pitch to suit Australia’s fast bowlers and negate the influence of England spinner Graeme Swann.sked if Hodgkins should deliver a green top after the success of Australia’s pace attack in Perth, the former Australian pacer said: …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

England can no longer afford to ‘carry’ Collingwood after Perth loss: Warne

MELBOURNE – Legendary bowler Shane Warne has said that batsman Paul Collingwood is England’s weak link as they fight to retain the Ashes in Melbourne.

In an exclusive live blog, Warne said England could no longer afford to “carry” players after losing the third Test in Perth, The Herald Sun reports.

“When a team is winning, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : England can no longer afford to ‘carry’ Collingwood after Perth loss: Warne.

Love-rat Wayne Rooney named UK’s Celebrity Villain Of The Year

LONDON – Love-rat Wayne Rooney has been named UK’s Celebrity Villain Of The Year.

The Manchester United striker’s fall from grace follows his disastrous World Cup appearance for England and revelations that he cheated on his pregnant wife Coleen, 24, with a hooker.

The 25-year-old footballer polled 24 percent of the total vote, reports the Daily Star.

Meanwhile, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Love-rat Wayne Rooney named UK’s Celebrity Villain Of The Year.

Desperate Ponting ready to risk long-term injury to play Boxing Day Test

MELBOURNE – Australian cricket captain Ricky Ponting is in immense pain, but is quite desperate to play in the Boxing Day Ashes Test that begins from December 26.

According to the Herald Sun, Ponting, 36, will consider risking long-term damage if he feels capable of making a contribution when the fourth Test starts at the MCG …. Original source  : Desperate Ponting ready to risk long-term injury to play Boxing Day Test.

Pak cricketers must get players’ association for ‘welfare from one common platform’

LAHORE – Former Pakistan first class cricketer Aamir Bashir’s untimely death due to cancer has led to a call from former national captains and players for the establishment of a players’ association in the country.

“I think the way and the conditions in which Aamir Bashir passed away is sad, and there are many other players … Original article on : Pak cricketers must get players’ association for ‘welfare from one common platform’.

Injured Anderson in doubt for Boxing Day Test

MELBOURNE – England’s chances of taking a decisive lead in the Ashes series have taken a hit with the news that main strike bowler James Anderson is carrying a side injury.

England coach Andy Flower confirmed that his most experienced seamer had pulled up stiff after Perth.

With Stuart Broad out of the tour with injury and …. Read the original article  : here.

Katich hopes to recover in time for fifth Ashes Test in Sydney

MELBOURNE – Australian opener Simon Katich is hopeful of recovering from an Achilles injury in time for the fifth Ashes Test in Sydney in early January.

Katich hobbled through much of the fourth day of the Adelaide Test after partially tearing his Achilles tendon, an injury many suspected would be series ending.

But after enduring daily …. Original source  : Katich hopes to recover in time for fifth Ashes Test in Sydney.

Australians still vulnerable, under pressure: Pietersen

SYDNEY – England’s star batsman Kevin Pietersen Thursday said that despite Australia’s series equalling win in the third Ashes Test in Perth, the hosts remain “vulnerable” and under “extreme pressure”.

Pietersen said the way the baggy greens broke into celebrations and made statements after the win indicates they are still feeling the heat.
“When … Read : Australians still vulnerable, under pressure: Pietersen.

NY court rules golfers not obliged to shout ‘fore’ to warn of wayward shots

LONDON – Golfers are not legally obliged to shout ‘fore’ to warn fellow players of wayward shots, according to a ruling in the U.S.

According to the Daily Mail, the case was brought by Dr Azad Anand, who was struck in the eye by a wayward shot … Read more : NY court rules golfers not obliged to shout ‘fore’ to warn of wayward shots.

ICC Dream Team: Seven Indians Nominated

DUBAI, UAE (GaeaTimes.com)- In a bid to celebrate the 40th anniversary of one-day cricket, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has undertaken a unique initiative in which its is asking cricket enthusiasts all across the globe to vote for the dream team of one-day international cricket. The list of 48 players who have been nominated …. Read the original article  : ICC Dream Team: Seven Indians Nominated.

MCG curator dismisses Englis media’s pitch conspiracy theories

MELBOURNE – MCG curator Cameron Hodgkins has dismissed English media’s conspiracy theories that he has prepared a Boxing Day Test pitch to give Australia an advantage.

Hodgkins said the drop-in pitch would have plenty on offer for spinners on the opening day before flattening out under the roller over the rest of the five days.

“It’s a … Read more >>>.

Pietersen won’t be taking yellow Lamborghini for a Melbourne spin

MELBOURNE – England middle-order batsman Kevin Pietersen will not be taking his canary-coloured Lamborghini out for a spin again in Melbourne.

The last time he was in the city, Pietersen was fined 100 dollars for clocking 75mph in an area where the speed limit was 62mph.

“I got offered the opportunity to drive a yellow car and, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Pietersen won’t be taking yellow Lamborghini for a Melbourne spin.

Akram “disappointed” over Pak cricketers’ omission from fourth edition of IPL

KARACHI – Former Pakistan cricket captain Wasim Akram has expressed his disappointment over the likely omission of Pakistan players from the auction list for the fourth edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) bonanza.

“From what we are hearing, Pakistani players will again not be in the IPL, and this is so disappointing because frankly speaking, … Read more >>.

Australian team will draw its inspiration from Ponting: Haddin

MELBOURNE – Brad Haddin has said that the Australian team will draw its inspiration from skipper Ricky Ponting, who is determined to play in the fourth Ashes Test despite a broken finger.

Ponting completed training drills without any dramas at the MCG on Thursday and the Australia captain will step up his bid to prove his …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Nigeria probes suspended FIFA executive Adamu

ABUJA – Nigeria’s anti-corruption agency, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has begun the investigation of corruption charges over disgraced FIFA executive Amos Adamu.

Last month, Adamu was suspended by FIFA for three years and fined 100,000 Swiss Francs (105,000 dollars) for breaching the code of ethics of the world football governing body over …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Nigeria probes suspended FIFA executive Adamu.

IPL will miss Pakistani cricketers, says Akram

KARACHI – Former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram believes the Indian Premier league (IPL) will lose its gloss after ignoring Pakistani cricketers, most of whom he stressed are counted among the best in the shorter version of the game.

Speaking on the sidelines of a match featuring special children here at the PIA Academy Wednesday, the …. Source  : IPL will miss Pakistani cricketers, says Akram.

Man City told to offer 38 m pounds for Bosnian striker Dzeko

LONDON – Manchester City have been told they must smash their own British transfer record by bidding 38 million pounds for Bosnian striker Edin Dzeko.

Dzeko is City’s No 1 New Year transfer target as they aim an assault on the Premier League title, The Sun reports.

But according to The Sun, German side Wolfsburg is going … Read : Man City told to offer 38 m pounds for Bosnian striker Dzeko.

Only Man U or Chelsea can win this season’s Premier League title: Nani

LONDON – Manchester United winger Nani believes that only reigning Premier League champion Chelsea can deny his team the honour of winning the league title for the 19th time.

United are currently unbeaten in this season after 16 matches, and lead the points table by two points.

They have a game in hand on second-placed Arsenal and … Original article on : Only Man U or Chelsea can win this season’s Premier League title: Nani.

Venables feels that Man U, not Chelsea will be Premier League champs

LONDON – Former football star and manager Terry Venables believes that Manchester United and not Chelsea have a better chance of winning this season’s Premier League title.

In an article for The Sun, he says that while in August, he had tipped Chelsea to retain the title, he now believes Manchester United will be crowned champions. … Read more : Venables feels that Man U, not Chelsea will be Premier League champs.

Pietersen says Johnson won’t get England wickets again

MELBOURNE – England batsman Kevin Pietersen has said that Australian pacer Mitchell Johnson caught them by surprise in Perth, and added it won’t happen again.

Dropped for the second Test and recalled for third Ashes Test in Perth, Johnson took 6-38 and 3-44 to guide Australia to a 267-run win to level the five-match series at …. Source  : Pietersen says Johnson won’t get England wickets again.

Prior, Ashes rival Siddle to play for same team

LONDON – England wicketkeeper Matt Prior is all set to become a team-mate of his Ashes rival Peter Siddle.

Prior, who was overlooked for the one-day series after the Tests, is poised to sign for Victoria Bushrangers for this winter’s Twenty20 Big Bash event.

Prior, 28, made a century for England in their three-day match [..] Read the original article: here.

Harris considered retiring from cricket

MELBOURNE – Australian fast bowling sensation Ryan Harris, who took nine wickets in the Perth Test, has admitted that he considered retiring from first-class cricket on the eve of the Ashes.

Only six weeks ago, a troubled Harris was so worried about his chronic right knee injury that he thought seriously about discarding his baggy …. Read the original article  : Harris considered retiring from cricket.

New FA chief wants Capello’s successor to be English

LONDON – New Football Association chairman David Bernstein has said that he would prefer Fabio Capello’s successor to be English, which means Spurs boss Harry Redknapp is the huge favourite to replace Capello after Euro 2012.

Bernstein, who was nominated as the FA’s leader on Wednesday, said it was not just him who thought the …. Original source  : New FA chief wants Capello’s successor to be English.

ICC rejects Butt’s plea for delay in spot-fixing hearing

KARACHI – Former Pakistan captain Salman Butt finds himself in deeper mess after the International Cricket Council (ICC) rejected his plea to put off the spot-fixing hearing slated for Jan 6-11 in Doha.

In a statement early Thursday, the ICC said that after a lengthy teleconference Wednesday Michael Beloff, the chairman of the ICC Anti-Corruption … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : ICC rejects Butt’s plea for delay in spot-fixing hearing.

When will athletes reach their physical limit?

WASHINGTON – Year after year, the sports fraternity witnesses old records being broken, be it in swimming or running. But what is the limit of this human physical ability? Will runners continue to accelerate off the starting blocks and reach the finish line in faster and faster times?

South Korean researchers Yu Sang Chang and Seung … Read : When will athletes reach their physical limit?.

‘Free spirit’ Symonds happy out of cricketing spotlight

BRISBANE – Former Australian Test player Andrew Symonds has gone from the glare of the spotlight to the anonymity of farming life in North Queensland.

In 2006, during the last Ashes series, Symonds was bigger than Santa Claus. Smiting balls into the crowd, taking wickets and throwing them down. Emerging from a car wash wearing only …. Source article  : ‘Free spirit’ Symonds happy out of cricketing spotlight.

Boasting Aussies are scared: Pietersen

MELBOURNE – England middle-order batsman Kevin Pietersen believes the Aussies are boasting and making big statements because they are under pressure to deliver.

In a far-ranging interview to The Sun, the man the Aussies love to hate gave his version of the sledging battle with Mitchell Johnson after which the fast bowler called him a …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Boasting Aussies are scared: Pietersen.

Melbourne Ashes Test best chance for England to retain Ashes urn: Vaughan

LONDON – The Andrew Strauss-led England team can secure the Ashes in the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, according to former captain Michael Vaughan.England may find it has to win in Melbourne this week to secure the Ashes because the pitch at Sydney may well turn … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Melbourne Ashes Test best chance for England to retain Ashes urn: Vaughan.

Injured Anderson ‘looking very, very good’ for Boxing Day Ashes Test

MELBOURNE – England fast bowler James Anderson is set to overcome injury doubts and play in the Boxing Day Test of the Ashes series in Melbourne.

Bowling for the first time since he suffered a sore side in the third Test in Perth, Anderson appeared to show little discomfort in … Original source on Gaea Times at : Injured Anderson ‘looking very, very good’ for Boxing Day Ashes Test.

San Diego State Defies Navy Midshipmen

SAN DIEGO (GaeaTimes.com)- Irrespective of the slick field at the Qualcomm Stadium, San Diego last night, the home team did wonders after they successfully knocked off rivals Navy Midshipmen by a score of 35-14 at the Poinsettia Bowl. The night turned out one of extreme joy not only for the San Diego State team but … Original source on Gaea Times at : San Diego State Defies Navy Midshipmen.

Strauss backs ‘great fighter’ Collingwood to fire in Boxing Day Ashes Test

MELBOURNE – Despite the contrasting form of England batsmen Paul Collingwood and Ian Bell, captain Andrew Strauss has said that he was not inclined to switch them in the batting order.

“We all know what Colly is like. He is a great fighter and we’ve got great faith in him,” the Daily Express quoted Strauss, as …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Strauss backs ‘great fighter’ Collingwood to fire in Boxing Day Ashes Test.

Bangladesh won’t tour Pak before 2012 due to “tight schedule”: BCB President

KARACHI – Bangladesh has ruled out playing in Pakistan until 2012, citing the “tight schedule” of the national team, and not “law and order” issues, as the reason behind the decision.

Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) President Mustafa Kamal said that the national team was not in a position to tour Pakistan before 2012, but the Under-19 …. Source article  : Bangladesh won’t tour Pak before 2012 due to “tight schedule”: BCB President.

MCG curator says specialist spinner will be the key

MELBOURNE – West Australian left-arm spinner Michael Beer has found an ally at last, and he comes in the form of the MCG curator Cameron Hodgkins.

Called into the Australian squad for the Perth Test, only to be named 12th man, Beer could make his Test debut before a world-record crowd on Boxing Day if … Read this article on Gaea Times at : MCG curator says specialist spinner will be the key.

Getting ‘dangerman’ Hussey early key to England winning Boxing Day Test: Marks

London, Dec 24(ANI): Former England cricketer Vic Marks believes that Andrew Strauss’ team can win the Boxing Day Test of the Ashes series if they dismiss Australian middle-order batsman Mike Hussey early.

Hussey has scored 517 runs at an average of 103 in the series so far, which includes his career best 195 in the opening …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Boxing Day Test at MCG, the ultimate high for an Oz cricketer: Dean Jones

SYDNEY – Former Australian cricketer Dean Jones has said that for an Australian Test batsman to walk onto the MCG on Boxing Day is the ultimate high.

However, he adds: “If you’re not too careful, it could turn out to be the most frightening and worst experience of all.”

In article for the Sydney Morning Herald, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Boxing Day Test at MCG, the ultimate high for an Oz cricketer: Dean Jones.

Oz team Xmas party is no fancy affair ahead of Boxing Day Test: Clark

SYDNEY – An Australian team Christmas isn’t a fancy affair and will be underlined by the nerves that will be building for the players ahead of Sunday’s Boxing Day Test in Melbourne, says former fast bowler Stuart Clark

“Walking out before a packed MCG on Boxing Day is the Australian cricketing equivalent of a tennis player …. Read the original article  : here.

Record 90,000 fans at MCG will make Aussies feel ‘bulletproof’: Ponting

MELBOURNE – Australian captain Ricky Ponting thinks that his team will feel “bulletproof” if the first-day crowd for the Boxing Day Ashes Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground reaches an expected record of over 90,000.

“When you walk out on to the field on Boxing Day morning for the anthems and the ground is full, it … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Record 90,000 fans at MCG will make Aussies feel ‘bulletproof’: Ponting.

PCB awards ‘central contracts’ to women cricketers for first time in Pak history

LAHORE – In a first, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced the awarding of central contracts to women cricketers, honouring the team that scooped gold at the Asian Games in Guangzhou last month.

The decision was taken at the meeting of the PCB Governing Council at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, with Ijaz Butt in … Original source on Gaea Times at : PCB awards ‘central contracts’ to women cricketers for first time in Pak history.

Getting ‘dangerman’ Hussey early key to England winning Boxing Day Test: Marks

LONDON – Former England cricketer Vic Marks believes that Andrew Strauss’ team can win the Boxing Day Test of the Ashes series if they dismiss Australian middle-order batsman Mike Hussey early.

Hussey has scored 517 runs at an average of 103 in the series so far, which includes his career best 195 in the opening Test … Read : Getting ‘dangerman’ Hussey early key to England winning Boxing Day Test: Marks.

Ex NY Jets employee claims Brett Favre asked her for masturbation video

WASHINGTON – It seems Brett Favre’s troubles will not end anytime soon.

Jenn Sterger, the former NY Jets employee who allegedly received penis photos from Favre, claims she got a text message from the NFL legend in which he asked her for a video of her masturbating, sources told TMZ.

According to the sources, Sterger received the …. Source  : Ex NY Jets employee claims Brett Favre asked her for masturbation video.

England ‘won’t be overwhelmed’ by record 90,000 supporters at MCG: Strauss

MELBOURNE – England captain Andrew Strauss is confident that his side will rise to the challenge of playing in front of over 90,000 supporters on the first day of the traditional Boxing Day Ashes Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

Strauss said that England would attack and go all out to defeat Australia rather than …. Read the original article  : England ‘won’t be overwhelmed’ by record 90,000 supporters at MCG: Strauss.

Ashes 2010: Fletcher says England must stick to their guns

LONDON – Former England cricket team coach Duncan Fletcher has said that though the loss of Stuart Broad has upset the balance of the four-man pace attack, England must not panic and stick to their guns for the remaining two Ashes Tests in Melbourne and Sydney.

“England must react calmly to defeat (at Perth). I do … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Ashes 2010: Fletcher says England must stick to their guns.

Diana Taurasi Tests Positive

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com)- It seems being in the limelight for the wrong reasons has become a compulsive habit for basketball star Diana Taurasi. According to her lawyer, the noted stand-out and former University of Connecticut player has been found to be guilty of taking banned substance while playing in a pro-football basketball league in … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Diana Taurasi Tests Positive.

‘It is going to take a fair bit to keep me out of Boxing Day Ashes Test’, says Ponting

MELBOURNE – Australian captain Ricky Ponting has said that he is a certain starter for the Boxing Day Test of the Ashes series against England despite having a fractured finger.

“It is going to take a fair bit to keep me out of this game,” he said. “I said after Perth I had a good chance … Read more >>>.

Ponting expects his ‘boys to play with emotion’

MELBOURNE – Australian captain Ricky Ponting is loving his team’s newly discovered art of sledging and aggression, and says that it would boost their confidence going into the Boxing Day Test of the Ashes series against England.

When asked if it is right that he has loosened up the reins on the team and said let’s …. Read the original article  : here.

Oz opener Hughes must bat with ‘positive intent’ to retain Ashes spot: Langer

MELBOURNE – Australian opening batsman Phillip Hughes needs to show “positive intent” in order to bat himself back into form, according to batting coach Justin Langer.

Hughes, who was summoned to replace injured Simon Katich, has disappointed by scoring two and 12 in the third Test of the ongoing Ashes series.

The 22-year-old is yet to make … Read : Oz opener Hughes must bat with ‘positive intent’ to retain Ashes spot: Langer.

Gillette won’t renew its endorsement deal with Tiger Woods

MELBOURNE – The Gillette brand has announced that it will cut ties with golfer Tiger Woods at the end of the year.

The brand, known for its shaving products, used Woods, Roger Federer, Lionel Messi and dozens of other athletes as part of its three-year “Gillette Champions” marketing campaign, reports News.com.au.

Now Owner Procter and … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Gillette won’t renew its endorsement deal with Tiger Woods.

Yousuf to play league cricket in Bangladesh

KARACHI – Pakistan batsman Mohammad Yousuf has signed up to play with a Bangladesh club, Mohammedan Sporting, in the Premier Division Cricket League of the country.

The club brought in Yousuf in place of Sri Lankan all-rounder Parveez Maharoof, who returned home after sustaining an injury, the … Read : Yousuf to play league cricket in Bangladesh.

Lalit Modi gets reprieve from Bombay High Court

MUMBAI – The Bombay High Court on Saturday stayed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)’s disciplinary committee’s proceedings against former Indian Premier League (IPL) Chairman Lalit Modi on charges of financial irregularities in the conduct of the cash-rich T20 Cricket tournament.

Modi’s counsel … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Lalit Modi gets reprieve from Bombay High Court.

Arsenal will feel Chelsea’s full force on Monday: Cole

LONDON – Striker Ashley Cole believes that Arsenal will feel the full force of Chelsea on Monday.

Cole is confident Carlo Ancelotti’s men are more than capable of repeating last season’s 3-0 score line at the Emirates, especially with Frank Lampard, John Terry and Michael …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Arsenal will feel Chelsea’s full force on Monday: Cole.

Strife-torn Pakistan ideal foe for Black Caps

AUCKLAND – John Wright could hardly have asked for a better start to his return to international cricket coaching than an series against a strife-torn Pakistan team starting here tomorrow.

The Black Caps are also not in the rosiest of positions from a form … Original article on : Strife-torn Pakistan ideal foe for Black Caps.

Fish slams ITF for Odesnik’s ban cut in hormone case

NEW YORK – Tennis player Mardy Fish of the US has slammed the leniency shown by international tennis officials to compatriot Wayne Odesnik, whose two-year ban for possessing human growth hormone was cut to one year in the run-up to Christmas.

The International Tennis Federation (ITF) approved the South African- born Odesnik for a return … Read more »».

Australia’s Ponting goes in to bat for his job

SYDNEY – Australian cricket captain Ricky Ponting Saturday declared himself fit to play in the crucial fourth Ashes Test against England in Melbourne Sunday.

The out-of-form batsman, who broke his little finger last weekend in the Perth Test that put the local side back in the game, admitted another low score Sunday would jeopardise his … Original source on Gaea Times at : Australia’s Ponting goes in to bat for his job.

Proteas ready for India’s Durban backlash

Durban (S. Africa), – The South African cricket team is prepared to face a possible backlash from India’s experienced and formidable batting line-up in the Boxing Day Test to be played at Kingsmead, Durban from Sunday.

South African skipper Graeme Smith said that expected Indian to be better, especially after the visitors had suffered an innings … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Proteas ready for India’s Durban backlash.

Pakistan to finalise preliminary squad for World Cup 2011 on December 30

LAHORE – Pakistan cricket selectors will meet on December 30 to finalise the preliminary squad of 30 players for next year’s World Cup.

The selectors decided to meet on December 30 after being assured by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) that they would be given a clear answer on the availability of some players.

“The board …. Read the original article  : Pakistan to finalise preliminary squad for World Cup 2011 on December 30.

Wellington spinner Woodcock set to make Kiwi 20-20 debut

AUCKLAND – Wellington spinner Luke Woodcock is likely to make his New Zealand debut in the Twenty20 international against Pakistan at Eden Park in Auckland tomorrow.

The 28-year-old from the Johnsonville club has been one of the standout bowlers in the HRV Cup, and along with Canterbury batsman Dean Brownlie and Central Districts teenage quick bowler …. Read the original article  : here.

England footie star triggers street brawl

LONDON – England footballer Jack Wilshere triggered a street brawl that ended with a woman breaking her elbow, a court heard yesterday.

The Arsenal midfielder is said to have “made comments” to Kim Plested who was celebrating her 21st birthday with her boyfriend Dan Farnon in Kensington, west London.

According to the Daily Express, Wilshere’s words sparked …. Source article  : England footie star triggers street brawl.

PCB seeks financial documents from Akmal, Malik by December 30

LAHORE – The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has asked former captain Shoaib Malik and wicketkeeper Kamran Akmal to submit the documents listing their assets and bank accounts by December 30.

The PCB also told the duo that they would not be considered for Pakistan’s preliminary squad for next year’s World Cup squad if they failed to …. Read the original article  : PCB seeks financial documents from Akmal, Malik by December 30.

Man U on course to winning Premier League title: Park Ji Sung

LONDON – South Korean football star Park Ji Sung believes that Manchester United will win the 2010-11 Premier League title, a year after losing it to Chelsea.

Park will play against Sunderland tomorrow before bowing out to undertake Asia Cup duties for South Korea in Qatar.

The 29-year-old, who is enjoying his best season for the Red …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Man U on course to winning Premier League title: Park Ji Sung.

Injured McCullum ruled out of first two T20s against Pakistan

AUCKLAND – New Zealand batsman Brendon McCullum has been ruled out of Sunday’s opening Twenty20 international against Pakistan due to his back soreness.

McCullum had injured his back during the second Test against India in November.

It brings an end to the farcical situation that arose this week, when the right-handed batsman had negotiated his way …. Read the original article  : Injured McCullum ruled out of first two T20s against Pakistan.

Premier League title a three-way race this time round: Ferguson

LONDON – Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson believes that this season’s Premier League title race is now down to three teams.

“I don’t think there will be anyone outside ourselves, Chelsea or Arsenal,” the BBC quoted Ferguson, as saying.

“I know Harry [Redknapp] is talking up his chances at Tottenham, but they are involved in the … Read : Premier League title a three-way race this time round: Ferguson.

Ashes 2010: Sledging expected to continue

MELBOURNE – The war of words between England and Australia’s cricketers is expected to continue when the hotly contested Ashes series recommences from Sunday.

Despite its image as the ‘gentleman’s game’, cricket has a long and colourful tradition of sledging among players.

But with tensions mounting as Australia levelled the series at 1-1 in the last test …. Source article  : Ashes 2010: Sledging expected to continue.

Ashes”incredible workload’ wreaking havoc on England fast bowlers: Healy

SYDNEY – Former Australian wicketkeeper Ian Healy believes that there are serious question marks hanging over England’s bowling attack for the ongoing Ashes series.

Healy said that the gruelling nature of fast-bowling Down Under is getting the better of them.

“I think Australia’s selectors were always very aware of how difficult it is have the same attack …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Ashes’ ‘incredible workload’ wreaking havoc on England fast bowlers: Healy.

England refreshed and ready to retain Ashes in Boxing Day Ashes Test: Trott

MELBOURNE – The England team is ready to secure the Ashes in the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, according to middle-order batsman Jonathan Trott.

In a write-up for the Telegraph, Trott said that the preparation for the fourth encounter between the two cricketing rivals has been fantastic.

“We have the chance to retain …. Original source  : England refreshed and ready to retain Ashes in Boxing Day Ashes Test: Trott.

Swann was intimidated by in-form Hussey in Perth Test: Healy

SYDNEY – Former Australian wicketkeeper Ian Healy has credited in-form middle-order batsman Mike Hussey for neutralizing England’s world No.1 spin bowler Graeme Swann.

Swann was the tourist’s trumpcard when England took a 1-0 lead following the second Test in Adelaide, but was disappointing in the third Test in Perth’s WACA Ground.

The off-spinner bowled just 25 overs, …. Original article  : Swann was intimidated by in-form Hussey in Perth Test: Healy.

Record 90,000 fans at MCG will be electrifying: Ponting

MELBOURNE – Australian captain Ricky Ponting reckons that the atmosphere at the Melbourne Cricket Ground will be electrifying if the first-day crowd for the Boxing Day Ashes Test reaches an expected record of over 90,000.

“With that amount of people coming to watch the game, there’s no doubt the nerves from players on both teams are …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Record 90,000 fans at MCG will be electrifying: Ponting.

Ponting says fit for Boxing Day Ashes Test but won’t field in slips

MELBOURNE – Australian captain Ricky Ponting has declared himself fit for the Boxing Day Test of the Ashes series before admitting that his fractured finger would face a hammering from England’s fast bowlers.

Ponting had fractured the little finger in his left hand while attempting to claim an edge at slip off Jonathan Trott on day … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Ponting says fit for Boxing Day Ashes Test but won’t field in slips.

South Africa put India to bat at Durban

DURBAN – South Africa won the toss and elected to field against India in the second cricket Test here Sunday.

The start of the match was delayed by an hour due to a slight drizle in the morning.
India have made three changes to the side that lost by an innnings and 25 runs at … Original source on Gaea Times at : South Africa put India to bat at Durban.

Brit boxing ace Khan says he never tested positive for drugs

LONDON – Hitting out at drug rumours, Ace British boxer Amir Khan has said that he and Manny Pacquiao are completely clean.

Khan’s conditioning coach Alex Ariza claims Marcos Maidana’s trainer Miguel Diaz called him ‘a fraud’ following the Bolton boxer’s impressive points win over the Argentine in Las Vegas earlier this month.

Ariza even claims Diaz …. Original source  : Brit boxing ace Khan says he never tested positive for drugs.

Beckham’s European loan move in jeopardy over TV deal

LONDON – La Galaxy is reportedly not ready for a European loan move for David Beckham, as they don’t want to jeopardise a new lucrative TV deal.

Beckham had said that he still has a chance of making a sensational England comeback and is targeting a loan move to a major European club to try to … Read more : Beckham’s European loan move in jeopardy over TV deal.

PCB blames India for Pak players’ omission from IPL 4

KARACHI – The Pakistan Cricket Board’s Chief Operating Officer, Subhan Ahmed, has blamed India for the exclusion of Pakistan players from next year’s Indian Premier League (IPL) Twenty20 tournament.

Ahmed claimed that India did not respond to queries about the participation of Pakistani players.

“We asked them about the participation of Pakistan players, but they …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Brit-Indian bride ‘was executed in cold blood’ in South Africa

LONDON – Brit-Indian honeymooner Anni Dewani, who was shot dead in South Africa last month, was executed in cold blood, a leaked medical report has suggested.

According to the Daily Mail, a document written by a paramedic who attended the scene states that Anni was killed after sustaining wounds to her neck and back.

The document was … Read more >>.

Southee hat-trick helps Black Caps beat Pakistan in opening T20

AUCKLAND – A hat-trick from fast bowler Tim Southee helped New Zealand beat Pakistan by five wickets in the opening Twenty20 international at Auckland’s Eden Park today.

Southee claimed five wickets in the space of just eight balls to finish the match with figures of 5-18 from four overs.

It is the first five-wicket haul by a …. Source  : Southee hat-trick helps Black Caps beat Pakistan in opening T20.

PCB confirms Pak players under Integrity Committee’s radar for clearance

KARACHI – The Pakistan Cricket Board’s Chief Operating Officer, Subhan Ahmed, has confirmed that some national players are under the scrutiny of the board’s Integrity Committee.

However, he declined to disclose the names of the players, who are being investigated by the committee before they can be given a green signal to play for the national …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : PCB confirms Pak players under Integrity Committee’s radar for clearance.

India won’t rely on South Africa’s poor statistics in Durban: Dhoni

DURBAN – Indian captain M.S. Dhoni has said that he is aware of South Africa’s recent record in Durban, where they lost to Australia and England in 2009, but insisted that it meant nothing to him.

India will face South Africa in the second Test, starting today at Kingsmead.

“We can’t rely on statistics as they don’t …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : India won’t rely on South Africa’s poor statistics in Durban: Dhoni.

Coleen trusts Rooney again, prepares to go on holiday without him

LONDON – After his cheating rocked their marriage in September, Wayne Rooney seems to be trying hard to win back his wife Coleen’s love.

The England striker is sending his wife and her entire family on a luxury Caribbean cruise, reports the Daily Mail.

And it seems Coleen is demonstrating that she trusts her husband.

Just three …. Read the original article  : Coleen trusts Rooney again, prepares to go on holiday without him.

Becks to face his sex scandal accuser in the New Year

LONDON – David Beckham is expected to face his sex scandal accuser in a US court hearing, probably after the New Year.

The soccer star was due to give a formal statement in the case before Christmas.

But his lawyers have managed to postpone the hearing until after his family festivities with wife Victoria and their …. Read the original article  : Becks to face his sex scandal accuser in the New Year.

Tiger Woods’ ex-wife furious as he will miss son’s b’day again

LONDON – Tiger Woods is embroiled in a new battle with ex-wife Elin Nordegren after revealed he will miss their son Charlie’s second birthday in February.

The 34-year-old golfer vowed to be present for his son’s birthday after he was in sex rehab and couldn’t attend Charlie’s first birthday party,” reports the Daily Star.

“That hurt a … Read more : Tiger Woods’ ex-wife furious as he will miss son’s b’day again.

Dhoni exhorts his team to play consistent cricket

DURBAN – Caught in a must-win situation in the second Test against South Africa to keep the series alive after the drubbing at Centurion, India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni exhorted his players to play “consistent cricket” befitting the World’s No.1 team.

“We have played some good, consistent cricket throughout the year. Everyone has contributed… bowlers, … Read more : Dhoni exhorts his team to play consistent cricket.

Almeida agrees move to Turkish club Besiktas

BREMEN – Hugo Almeida has agreed a move from Bundesliga club Werder Bremen to Besiktas Istanbul, the Turkish side confirmed Saturday.

Besiktas have reportedly paid $2.6 million dollars for the Portugal striker, whose contract with Bremen runs out in the summer.
The 26-year-old has agreed a three-and-a-half year deal with Besiktas until the end …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Almeida agrees move to Turkish club Besiktas.

Cricket academy to come up in Srinagar with BCCI aid

SRINAGAR – The Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA) has commenced the setting up of the first cricket academy here with assistance from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

The JKCA officials on Saturday said it is …. Source article  : Cricket academy to come up in Srinagar with BCCI aid.

I would love to score a century in my hometown: Amla

DURBAN – South African batsman Hashim Amla is bracing up for his maiden century at his home ground here to celebrate his 50th Test appearance.

Amla has had a dream run against India this year. The gritty middle-order batsman scored five hundreds in four Test matches, amassing 630 runs in last four innings. The Indian …. Read the original article  : I would love to score a century in my hometown: Amla.

PCB awaits IPL response on players’ participation

KARACHI – Pakistan’s cricket board Saturday announced that it contacted Indian Premier league (IPL) officials regarding the participation Pakistani players in the fourth edition but are yet to get a response from them.

Subhan Ahmed, COO of the Pakistan Cricket Board, told reporters here that the lack of response from the IPL led to the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : PCB awaits IPL response on players’ participation.

Zaheer’s return to boost India’s chances in Durban Test (Preview)

DURBAN – Speedster Zaheer Khan’s return will bolster the Indian pace attack and their chances in the second cricket Test against South Africa starting here Sunday at the Kingsmead Stadium.

India, ranked No.1 in Tests, suffered a humiliating innings and 25 runs defeat against the World No.2 team in the first Test in Centurion. Indian …. Source article  : Zaheer’s return to boost India’s chances in Durban Test (Preview).

Leonardo to replace Benitez as Inter Milan coach

ROME – Inter Milan have hired Brazilian coach Leonardo after firing Rafael Benitez six months into his tenure at the helm of the Serie A champions.

The club’s website announced late Friday that Leonardo, 41, signed a contract until Jun 2012 and will meet the team when they resume training Wednesday after a Christmas vacation.
… Read : Leonardo to replace Benitez as Inter Milan coach.

Pak committee fails to find clear motive behind wicketkeeper Haider’s flight to UK

ISLAMABAD – A fact-finding committee set up by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to look into the flight of wicketkeeper Zulqarnain Haider to the UK from Dubai has failed to find any clear motives behind his actions.

The Daily Times quoted the three-member committee of Subhan Ahmed (PCB chief executive officer), manager Intikhab Alam and … Read more : Pak committee fails to find clear motive behind wicketkeeper Haider’s flight to UK.

“Afridi is once again taking his bowling for granted”: Abdul Qadir

ISLAMABAD – Former Pakistan spin wizard and chief selector Abdul Qadir has criticised One-day International captain Shahid Afridi for taking his bowling for “granted”.

Afridi’s bowling was suffering a lean patch during early 2009, but after taking valuable googly tips from Qadir, he finished the 2009 ICC World T20 with 11 wickets at an impressive average …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : “Afridi is once again taking his bowling for granted”: Abdul Qadir.

England coasting to victory in Melbourne Test

SYDNEY – An unbeaten century by Jonathan Trott Monday put England a commanding 346 runs ahead of Australia on the second day of the fourth Ashes Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

The tourists recovered from a shaky start to post 5 for 444 at stumps and put a miracle recovery by the home … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : England coasting to victory in Melbourne Test.

Sharapova escapes, but snow stalls Roddick’s campaign

MELBOURNE – Bad winter weather is hampering plans of some top players to travel from North America to the southern hemisphere as the 2011 tennis season revs up from this weekend.

One player who escaped the wintery blast which enveloped Europe in recent days was Ana Ivanovic, who has arrived in Australia where she will … Original source on Gaea Times at : Sharapova escapes, but snow stalls Roddick’s campaign.

India bowled out for 205 in first innings

DURBAN – India were bowled out for 205 runs in their first innings against South Africa on the second day of the second cricket Test at Kingsmead here Monday.

Resuming at 183 for six, India lost the last four wickets for the addition of 22 runs.
Fast bowler Dale Steyn finished with six for 50. …. Source  : India bowled out for 205 in first innings.

Australia has suffered its worst cricketing day for 100 years: Roebuck

SYDNEY – After Australia scored a shocking 98 in their first innings in the Boxing Day Test, noted cricket columnist Peter Roebuck believes that the Ashes is in England’s pocket.

With the hosts falling to their lowest Ashes total at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in the venue’s 133-year history, the contest with England has for all … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Australia has suffered its worst cricketing day for 100 years: Roebuck.

Trott ton puts England in driver’s seat on day two of Boxing Day Ashes Test

MELBOURNE – Jonathan Trott scored his fifth Test century on Monday to help extend England’ lead to a massive 346 on day two of the Boxing Day Ashes Test in Melbourne.

Trott remained unbeaten on 141 off 278 balls, as the tourists finished the day on 444-5 in response to Australia’s first innings total …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Trott ton puts England in driver’s seat on day two of Boxing Day Ashes Test.

Saker’s role important in England bowlers dominating Oz batsmen at MCG

MELBOURNE – England’s bowling coach and former Victorian pacer, David Saker, has played an important role in restricting Australia on 98 runs, which tallied the lowest total against England at the MCG.

“I think there was a fair bit of it [David Saker's influence] there,” said former Australian bowler Damien Fleming.

“We know in Victoria they …. Original article  : Saker’s role important in England bowlers dominating Oz batsmen at MCG.

Out of form Ponting may lose more than Ashes

MELBOURNE – Australian cricket skipper Ricky Ponting was last night staring down the barrel of becoming the first Australian captain to lose three Ashes series since Billy Murdoch in 1890, but heir apparent, Michael Clarke, backed him to retain his job at the end of the series.

Exacerbating his woes, the 36-year-old is also in the … Read : Out of form Ponting may lose more than Ashes.

Obviously didn’t show enough discipline, says Clarke

MELBOURNE – Australian vice-captain Michael Clarke slammed the performance of his side after they were bowled out for a paltry 98 runs in the first innings of the fourth Ashes Test against England here Sunday.

“Our shot selection wasn’t great, no doubt. I think all of our wickets were caught behind the wicket, so there …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Obviously didn’t show enough discipline, says Clarke.

Vettori on target to face Pakistan in Test series

AUCKLAND – Skipper Daniel Vettori has said that he is on target to return to the Black Caps squad for the test series against Pakistan.

Vettori, who is sitting out of the three Twenty20 matches against the tourists to rest an injured back, is looking to get some cricket under his belt before the first test …. Read the original article  : Vettori on target to face Pakistan in Test series.

Vettori on target to face Pakistan in Test series

AUCKLAND – Skipper Daniel Vettori has said that he is on target to return to the Black Caps squad for the test series against Pakistan.

Vettori, who is sitting out of the three Twenty20 matches against the tourists to rest an injured back, is looking to get some cricket under his belt before the first test … Read more : Vettori on target to face Pakistan in Test series.

Afridi says Eden Park not fit to host ODI

AUCKLAND – Pakistan cricket captain Shahid Afridi has said that the redeveloped Eden Park cricket ground here is okay for Twenty20 internationals, but not for 50-over one-day internationals.

The pitch at the Auckland ground has been rotated 45 degrees clockwise, so that it runs parallel to where the halfway line of the rugby field would be. … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Afridi says Eden Park not fit to host ODI.

Under Coach Wright, Black Caps get into winning habit at last

AUCKLAND – New Zealand fast bowler Tim Southee’s hattrick helped his team register a victory against Pakistan in Sunday’s Twenty20 international.

New Zealand beat Pakistan by five wickets with 17 balls to spare in yesterday’s Twenty20 series opener in Auckland. Not since August had New Zealand ticked the ‘W’ column, in Sri Lanka, 11 one-day internationals …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Under Coach Wright, Black Caps get into winning habit at last.

Oz players crossed line in Perth Test: Flintoff

SYDNEY – Hitting out at the Australian players for their mindless sledging during the Perth Test, former England all-rounder Andrew Flintoff described it as “outright abuse”.

Flintoff said Australia crossed the line in Perth, particularly Peter Siddle, whose send-off to Matt Prior saw the England wicketkeeper react by allegedly asking the Victorian to come outside …. Source article  : Oz players crossed line in Perth Test: Flintoff.

Woods, Webber, Ponting top Media Monitors’ list of most mentioned sportsmen

MELBOURNE – Tiger Woods, Mark Webber and Ricky Ponting top the Media Monitors’ list of most mentioned sportspeople

According to Fox Sports and the Daily Telegraph, of the top 10, six are figures whose prevalence can be ascribed to off-field events as much as any sporting achievement – from affairs to drugs, break-ups to retirement.

Tiger Woods … Original source on Gaea Times at : Woods, Webber, Ponting top Media Monitors’ list of most mentioned sportsmen.

Klitschko brothers vow to send WBA champ Haye into retirement

LONDON – The Klitschko brothers, Wladimir and Vitali, have stated that one of them will face World Champion David Haye in 2011, and promised to send the British boxer into retirement without his WBA world heavyweight title.

The British world title holder was due to face Wladimir back in 2009, but he had to pull out … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Klitschko brothers vow to send WBA champ Haye into retirement.

Langer criticizes Oz batsmen for poor batting

MELBOURNE – Australia’s batting coach Justin Langer has criticized his batsmen for their poor performance at the MCG.

Loose strokes by Phillip Hughes and Brad Haddin, and impatient prods by Michael Clarke, Michael Hussey and Steve Smith have almost finished Australia’s hopes of regaining the Ashes with the top seven batsmen making a combined total of …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Langer criticizes Oz batsmen for poor batting.

Greame Smith thrilled at getting ’stolen’ Test cap back

CAPE TOWN – South African captain Graeme Smith has said that his match cap, which was stolen ahead of the ongoing second Test against India, has been returned to him.

“Big thx everyone, got my cap back! must have been @janbraai lamb offering…;-) quality crowd on boxing day, big for the boys,” Sport24 quoted Smith’s Twitter …. Source  : Greame Smith thrilled at getting ’stolen’ Test cap back.

‘Ex-cricketers like Rameez have ruined Pakistan cricket’, says Amir Sohail

ISLAMABAD – Former Pakistan batsman and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Game Development Director, Aamer Sohail, has slammed former team-mate Rameez Raja for saying that domestic cricket in the country is based on quantity over quality.

“I don’t know how Rameez Raja has the audacity to come on television and state that Pakistan cricket doesn’t have quality, … Read more >>>.

Noodle diplomacy by Taiwanese marathon runner

TAIPEI – A Taiwanese marathon runner who came second in the Antarctic Ultra Marathon said he helped promote his country by serving hot instant noodles to other runners in the sub-zero weather.

Tommy Chen, 24, returned to Taipei late Saturday, after winning the silver medal Dec 17 in the 100-km Antarctic marathon, which he completed … Read : Noodle diplomacy by Taiwanese marathon runner.

Brazil wins international beach soccer

RIO DE JANEIRO – The Brazilian national beach soccer team defeated the All-World team 6-2 to win the International Challenge of Beach Soccer.

In the match held in Sao Paulo, Brazil’s Bruno Malias and Benjamin scored twice Sunday while Anderson and Betinho added a goal each. For the All-World team, Madjer and Bukhlitskiy scored the [..] Read the original article: here.

Feeble Australian fightback delays England’s Ashes victory

MELBOURNE – Australia’s 6 for 169 at stumps on the third day’s play here delayed an inevitable victory for England in the fourth Ashes cricket Test.

To reach the 246 needed to make England bat again, captain Ricky Ponting would need his tail-enders to each score more than half a century over the remaining two … Read : Feeble Australian fightback delays England’s Ashes victory.

Ponting had no reason for his ugly altercation with umpire: Trott

LONDON – England batsman Jonathan Trott has said that Australian skipper Ricky Ponting had no reason for his ugly altercation with umpire Aleem Dar.

Trott made an unbeaten 141 alongside half-centuries from Matt Prior (75 not out) and Pietersen (51) to see England reach 444 … Read more »».

Pak will bounce back in series despite struggling to adjust to NZ conditions: Intikhab

HAMILTON – The Pakistan team, presently facing difficulty in adjusting to the weather and pitch conditions in New Zealand, will bounce back in the remaining two matches of the Twenty20 international series, team manager Intikhab Alam has said.

Pakistan were beaten by five wickets in …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Pak will bounce back in series despite struggling to adjust to NZ conditions: Intikhab.

Pace bowler Sohail Tanvir included in Pakistan squad for New Zealand tour

LAHORE – Pakistan cricket selectors have included injury-blighted paceman Sohail Tanvir in the national squad that is currently on the tour of New Zealand.

Just two weeks after he was ruled out of the New Zealand tour owing to a knee problem, Tanvir has been given the …. Read the original article  : Pace bowler Sohail Tanvir included in Pakistan squad for New Zealand tour.

England a sniff away from retaining Ashes at MCG

MELBOURNE – England has moved closer to retaining the Ashes for the first time in 24 years following another dominant display against Australia on day three of the fourth Test being played at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

Australia ended the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Ryan Harris may undergo surgery for ankle injury

MELBOURNE – Australia’s nightmare in the Ashes continued as fast bowler Ryan Harris Tuesday was detected with a stress facture on his left ankle and is likely to undergo a surgery.

The 31-year-old fast bowler limped out of the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) Monday on the third day of the fourth Ashes …. Source article  : Ryan Harris may undergo surgery for ankle injury.

Waugh blames Oz batsmen’s cheap limited overs tricks for Ashes failure

MELBOURNE – Former skipper Steve Waugh has said that the Australian batsmen are employing cheap limited overs tricks when a back to basics approach is desperately needed in the Test series.

He hit out at the flimsy batting techniques for sabotaging Australia’s Ashes campaign while noting the fluctuating focus of successor Ricky Ponting.

The flaws in opener …. Original article  : Waugh blames Oz batsmen’s cheap limited overs tricks for Ashes failure.

NZ mobile company registers Intikhab Alam as ‘Indian’ cricket team manager!

KARACHI – Pakistan cricket team manager Intikhab Alam, who is currently on the New Zealand tour with the national team, was in for a rude shock when the voice recorder of his mobile phone attributed him to be an Indian.

The Pakistani media and others were left stunned when they called Intikhab in New Zealand, as … Read more »».

Harris out of Ashes series with ankle fracture

MELBOURNE – Australian fast bowler Ryan Harris has suffered a stress fracture in his left ankle and will take no further part in the Ashes series.

Harris, who was one of Australia’s heroes with a nine-wicket haul in the third Test in Perth, is set to miss next week’s fifth and final Ashes Test in Sydney.

The …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Chappell wants Ponting’s suspension for arguing with umpires

MELBOURNE – Former Australian captain Ian Chappell has demanded the suspension of skipper Ricky Ponting.

Ponting was fined 40 per cent of his match fee for his finger-pointing rant at umpires following the rejected referral of an appeal for caught behind against Kevin Pietersen.

Chappell felt Ponting was let off lightly. “If I was adjudicating, I’d think … Read more >>.

Ponting apologises for showing dissent towards umpires

MELBOURNE – Australian captain Ricky Ponting Tuesday apologised for arguing with on-field umpires after England batsman Kevin Pietersen was given not out following a video referral on the second day of the fourth Ashes Test.

Ponting was fined 40 percent of his match fees, $5400 approximately, by match referee Ranjan Madugalle Monday for showing dissent … Read more : Ponting apologises for showing dissent towards umpires.

Black Caps wicketkeeper McGlashan eyeing 2011 World Cup spot

AUCKLAND – Ahead of the second Twenty20 international between New Zealand and Pakistan, wicketkeeper Peter McGlashan has said that he hopes to continue impressing the new selection panel for a place in the Black Caps side for the 2011 World Cup.

McGlashan had made the most of his recall to the national side with four catches …. Read the original article  : here.

Spot-fixing case: Afridi, Waqar, Najam’s statements cast serious doubts on tainted trio

LAHORE – Pakistan’s one-day skipper Shahid Afridi, team coach Waqar Younis and former security manager of Pakistan team Major (retd) Khawaja Najam Javed have admitted that ‘bookie’ Mazhar Majeed had kept constant contact with the ‘tainted trio’ during the England tour in August, and even stayed at the team’s hotel despite several warnings.

In their …. Read the original article  : Spot-fixing case: Afridi, Waqar, Najam’s statements cast serious doubts on tainted trio.

Ponting slams policy of showing replays on big screen

MELBOURNE – Australian captain Ricky Ponting criticised the policy of showing replays on the big screen before a decision is made, and admitted that the Hot-Spot heat-camera vision had prompted his anger towards umpires Aleem Dar and Tony Hill on the second day of the fourth Ashes Test.

“I guess one flaw we’ve got in … Read : Ponting slams policy of showing replays on big screen.

Hamilton to banish ‘outside intrusions’ from his mind in 2011

LONDON – Former Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton has said that he will try to banish ‘outside intrusions’ from his mind in 2011.

The 2008 Formula One champion, however, did not go into specifics.

“My plan is to make sure I’m 100 per cent clear in my mind and have no outside intrusions mentally. It’s been a …. Source  : Hamilton to banish ‘outside intrusions’ from his mind in 2011.

Boxer Mayweather filmed verbally abusing security guard at Vegas home

LAS VEGAS – Police are investigating claims that boxer Floyd Mayweather Jr. verbally abused and attacked a security guard at his Las Vegas home after the guard refused to let him into the gated community.

TMZ, which posted the footage on its site, said Mayweather became angry when asked for ID as he drove up to … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Boxer Mayweather filmed verbally abusing security guard at Vegas home.

Ponting apologises for his on-field argument with umpires

MELBOURNE – Australia captain Ricky Ponting has apologised for his on-field argument with the umpires, but insisted that Engalnd batsman Kevin Pietersen was out on the second day of the Boxing Day Test.

Ponting was fined 40 per cent of his match fee on Monday night after the confrontation with umpires Aleem Dar and Tony …. Original article  : Ponting apologises for his on-field argument with umpires.

Injury-plagued Oram takes first step towards 2011 World Cup goal

AUCKLAND – New Zealand all-rounder Jacob Oram, who is fighting to overcome a knee injury, has taken his first small step towards playing at next year’s 50-over World Cup in the Indian subcontinent.

Central Districts’ 29-run win over Wellington Firebirds in the HRV Cup at the Basin Reserve on Monday was Oram’s first domestic game since …. Read the original article  : here.

World surfing champion Gilmore attacked outside her NSW apartment

SYDNEY – Four-time world surfing champion Stephanie Gilmore has been bashed by a man wielding a metal pole in an attack outside her New South Wales (NSW) apartment.

Gilmore was taken to hospital after the man allegedly struck her twice with the pole before fleeing the scene on a bike around 9.30pm on Monday.

According to the …. Original article  : World surfing champion Gilmore attacked outside her NSW apartment.

Australian covers world in 52 marathons

MELBOURNE – An Australian man, who ran one marathon a week across all seven continents, has completed 52 marathons in 52 weeks.

Tristan Miller received a hero’s welcome from supporters and entered the record books when he crossed the finish line at Albert Park Lake here, the Australian news agency AAP reported Monday.
The 33-year-old … Read more »».

Ponting to review future with Australian cricket

MELBOURNE – Ricky Ponting will be reviewing his future with Australian cricket after the team lost the fourth Ashes Test by an innings and 157 runs here Wednesday, with England retaining the urn.

After Australia lost another chance to win back the Ashes, Ponting was gracious and forthcoming after the defeat that saw England taking … Original article on : Ponting to review future with Australian cricket.

Losing Ashes on Australian soil feels ‘horrendous’: Watson

MELBOURNE – Opener Shane Watson has said that the enormity of losing the Ashes on Australian soil for the first time in 24 years has not been lost on him and his teammates.

Admitting the prospect of winning the urn was gone, he said: “Its horrendous, to be totally honest. Going into this Ashes series …. Source  : Losing Ashes on Australian soil feels ‘horrendous’: Watson.

Ponting should give up captaincy to rediscover batting form: Blewett

MELBOURNE – Ricky Ponting may need to hand over the captaincy at the end of the Ashes series to rediscover his batting touch, according to former Australia batsman Greg Blewett.

Australia lost the fourth Test by an innings and 157 runs to go 2-1 down in the five-match series, and Ricky Ponting returned scores of … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Ponting should give up captaincy to rediscover batting form: Blewett.

We want to win Ashes outright by beating Australia in Sydney Test: Swann

LONDON – England spinner Graeme Swann has said the team is still not satisfied after retaining the Ashes urn, but wants to win the series outright by beating Australia in fifth and final Test in Sydney.

Australia lost the fourth Test by an innings and 157 runs to go 2-1 down in the five-match series, and … Original source on Gaea Times at : We want to win Ashes outright by beating Australia in Sydney Test: Swann.

Ankle injury puts Harris out of action for three months

MELBOURNE – Australian fast bowler Ryan Harris will be out of action for at least three months due to an ankle injury.

Harris suffered the injury during the fourth Test, in which England thrashed Australia by an innings and 157 runs Wednesday to retain the Ashes on away tour after 24 years.
Harris will … Read more : Ankle injury puts Harris out of action for three months.

Brit Asian player seeks to change face of UK football

LONDON – One of only three professional British Asian footballers is calling for more to be done to encourage others into the sport.

Zesh Rehman, 27, was the first British Asian to play in the Premier League, the FA Cup and the Carling Cup.

Now, according to Sky Sports, the former Bradford City defender has launched a … Original source on Gaea Times at : Brit Asian player seeks to change face of UK football.

Twitter users blame Ponting for a multitude of sins.

SYDNEY – Not only does he have to contend with becoming the first Australian cricket captain to lose the Ashes three times, but now Ricky Ponting is being blamed for everything from bad coffee and Justin Bieber to Queensland floods and climate change.

At lunch time today the Twitter hashtag #itspontingsfault was the social networking site’s … Original source on Gaea Times at : Twitter users blame Ponting for a multitude of sins..

Warne asks Oz selectors not to panic and make wholesale changes

SYDNEY – Legendary spinner Shane Warne has asked the Australian selectors not to panic and make large scale changes after the team lost the Ashes series to England.

Australia lost the fourth Test by an innings and 157 runs to go 2-1 down in the five-match series, and Ponting returned scores of 10 and 20 to … Read : Warne asks Oz selectors not to panic and make wholesale changes.

Bresnan says he needed cricket’s biggest stage to play his best

MELBOURNE – Having played only six Tests so far, England’s right-arm fast bowler Tim Bresnan said he needed the Ashes campaign platform to play his best.

Bresnan is so laid back he needed a Boxing Day blockbuster to get up for the display that shattered Australia’s Ashes campaign.

While most six-Test novices might freeze on cricket’s …. Original source  : Bresnan says he needed cricket’s biggest stage to play his best.

I have not dropped my pace, says Shoaib Akhtar

KARACHI – Fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar, who recently made a return to Pakistan squad against South Africa after almost two years’ gap, said he has not dropped his pace and is looking to play a match-winner’s role for Pakistan in the World Cup February-April.

Shoaib, who was once discarded as a spent force, said he …. Source article  : I have not dropped my pace, says Shoaib Akhtar.

Afridi should not criticise players in public: Moin Khan

KARACHI – Former Pakistan captain Moin Khan has advised current skipper Shahid Afridi to stop criticising his own players in public.

Afridi rapped his batsmen for Pakistans defeat in their opening Twenty20 International against New Zealand in Auckland last Sunday and then turned his guns on his bowlers after the tourists crashed to a 39-run …. Read the original article  : here.

England are deserving Ashes winner: Warne

MELBOURNE – Former Australian leg spinner Shane Warne on Wednesday hailed England’s Ashes heroes by saying that: “They deserve to win the series.”

Admitting that Andrew Strauss’ side had outplayed Australia in Melbourne, Warne said: “I have been impressed with England. They have played the better cricket and deserve to win the series.”

“They have probably …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : England are deserving Ashes winner: Warne.

Ponting to meet selectors to decide on future

MELBOURNE – Losing Australian cricket team captain Ricky Ponting will be meeting the National Selection Panel on Wednesday to determine his future as skipper and as a member of the team in the wake of the Ashes defeat at Melbourne.

According to the Sydney Morning Herald, while Ponting insists he still has plenty to offer as …. Original source  : Ponting to meet selectors to decide on future.

Injured Ryan Harris most likely to miss 2011 World Cup

MELBOURNE – Australian fast bowler Ryan Harris, who suffered a stress fracture in his left ankle, is all set to miss the World Cup after coach Tim Nielsen said he will be out for eight weeks.

The 31-year-old fast bowler pulled up during his run-up midway through the third day of the fourth Ashes Test at …. Original article  : Injured Ryan Harris most likely to miss 2011 World Cup.

‘Would love for Strauss to take my Ashes series winning skipper title,’ says Gatting

LONDON – Mike Gatting has nothing but praise for Andrew Strauss, the current England captain, who he believes has delivered on the promise he showed as a youngster.

Their paths first crossed in 1996 when Strauss was a 19-year-old on a summer contract at Middlesex. And while he had come from posh Radley School, his … Original article on : ‘Would love for Strauss to take my Ashes series winning skipper title,’ says Gatting.

England’s sustained excellence in Ashes praiseworthy: Roebuck

SYDNEY – England deserves enormous credit for the sustained excellence of their cricket in this series. It has been a team without heroes or egos, a hard-working, tough, thoughtful and committed outfit that has avoided bleating and inexorably crushed a shaky opponent, said noted cricket columnist Peter Roebuck.

In a syndicated column for the Sydney Morning … Read : England’s sustained excellence in Ashes praiseworthy: Roebuck.

Clarke most likely to succeed Ricky Ponting despite form slump

SYDNEY – Michael Clarke, who has failed to handle the responsibility of batting at No.4, remains the man most likely to succeed Ricky Ponting should the captain leave following another almost certain the Ashes defeat.

Clarke’s lean batting form stretches back six months over three series and just as many continents.

Significantly, his slump has coincided … Original article on : Clarke most likely to succeed Ricky Ponting despite form slump.

Australia bereft after England’s Ashes victory

SYDNEY – The English cricket team retained the Ashes trophy for the first time in 24 years Wednesday with an innings-and-157-run victory over Australia in the fourth Test in Melbourne.

The home side closed its second-innings account at 9 for 258 after injured Ryan Harris declared himself unable to bat.
With a 2-1 lead in …. Source article  : Australia bereft after England’s Ashes victory.

Ponting promises to review his Test future, says still has lot to offer

MELBOURNE – Beleaguered Australia’s skipper Ricky Ponting has said that he still has lot to offer the team after suffering his third Ashes series defeat today at the MCG.

Australia lost the fourth Test by an innings and 157 runs to go 2-1 down in the five-match series, and Ponting returned scores of 10 and 20 …. Read the original article  : here.

If we lose again, will probably be looking for another job: Ponting

MELBOURNE – Losing Australian cricket captain Ricky Ponting said on Wednesday that he would probably be reviewing his future as skipper and could be looking for a new job if the team lost the Sydney Ashes Test.

Fox Sports quoted an honest Ponting, as saying: “It’s as simple as that.”

Ponting accepted his recent failures after England …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : If we lose again, will probably be looking for another job: Ponting.

Warne urges Aussies to ‘make rational judgment calls’ to regain No.1 Test spot

SYDNEY – Australia have performed poorly over the past couple of years, and the authorities have to look at the top all the way down and work out what they need to do better, according to leg-spin legend Shane Warne.

“After Sydney, there is half a … Original source on Gaea Times at : Warne urges Aussies to ‘make rational judgment calls’ to regain No.1 Test spot.

Nicolas Kiefer hangs up his tennis racket

HANOVER – Nicolas Kiefer is retiring from tennis with immediate effect, the former world number four player from Germany said in an interview published Thursday.

Kiefer, 32, told Die Welt that he wants to spend more time with his baby daughter. He said he plans to continue in sports as an over-32 player at football … Original article on : Nicolas Kiefer hangs up his tennis racket.

Ponting ‘devastated’ at having to sit out in Sydney Test

SYDNEY – Australian captain Ricky Ponting Thursday said he was “devastated” after being ruled out from the fifth Ashes Test due to a broken finger.

Ponting suffered the injury during the Perth Test but the x-ray reports after the Melbourne game revealed that the under-fire captain aggravated the injury. Michael Clarke will captain the side …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Saker hails Anderson as world’s best fast bowler

MELBOURNE – England’s bowling coach David Saker has rated James Anderson as the world’s best fast bowler following his successful campaign in the ongoing Ashes series.

Anderson has claimed a series-leading 17 wickets, with a Test to be played in Sydney from January 2.

Saker said that the 28-year-old’s … Read : Saker hails Anderson as world’s best fast bowler.

Spot-fixing case: Aamir may lodge protest with ICC over statement leakage

KARACHI – Suspended Pakistan pacer Mohammad Aamir intends to lodge a protest with the International Cricket Council (ICC) over the continued leakage of confidential information relating to the spot-fixing scandal.

Aamir’s lawyer Shahid Karim said the fresh leak of the statements given to the ICC on the case …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Flower says England not satisfied, wants series victory in fifth Ashes Test

MELBOURNE – England coach Andy Flower has said his team is not satisfied with just retaining the Ashes urn and will be determined to claim a series victory in the fifth Test in Sydney.

A day after making history with their innings and 157-run demolition of Australia at the MCG, Flower said it was vital … Read more >>>.

Axe Afridi from captaincy, reshuffle Pak team: Sarfraz Nawaz

ISLAMABAD – In the wake of Pakistan suffering six consecutive defeats in Twenty20 internationals, former fast bowler Sarfraz Nawaz has called for a major reshuffle in the Pakistan squad and the axing of Shahid Afridi as captain.

Pakistan have lost the third consecutive Twenty20 series in last four months against England, South Africa and New … Read more >>>.

England didn’t ’specifically target’ Ponting, Clarke: Strauss

SYDNEY – England captain Andrew Strauss has said that his team had not specifically targeted Australian captain Ricky Ponting and vice-captain Michael Clarke in the ongoing Ashes series.

Cutting down the opposition’s captains had been one of the strategies of both teams in previous battles.

“Clearly, Ponting and Clarke are Australia’s best players, their records …. Source  : England didn’t ’specifically target’ Ponting, Clarke: Strauss.

Strauss urges mates to aim for ‘The Holy Grail’ of English cricket

MELBOURNE – England cricket captain has urged his mates to strive to win “The Holy Grail” of cricket – The Ashes series – by emerging victorious in the Sydney cricket Test against Australia, which begins from January 2.

Though England is understandably elated at being 2-1 in the series, Strauss believes that the icing on the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Dean Jones says Haddin not Clarke should lead Aussies in Sydney Test

SYDNEY – Former Australian batsman Dean Jones has said that wicketkeeper Brad Haddin and not vice-captain Michael Clarke should lead Australia in the fifth Ashes Test in Sydney.

Ricky Ponting has been ruled out of the match after x-rays on his broken little finger showed that the fracture had moved during this week’s fourth Test loss … Read : Dean Jones says Haddin not Clarke should lead Aussies in Sydney Test.

Sehwag out of ODI series with sore shoulder

NEW DELHI – Indian opener Virender Sehwag has been rested from the One-day series against South Africa with a sore shoulder.

Rohit Sharma will replace Sehwag for the five-match series, starting January 12.
Murali Vijay, who is in the Test squad, has been asked to stay back as a back-up opener.
“Sehwag has been …. Source article  : Sehwag out of ODI series with sore shoulder.

Ponting backs Usman Khawaja to bat No.3 in Sydney Test

MELBOURNE – Australian skipper Ricky Ponting, who has been ruled out of the fifth Test of the Ashes series against England because of further damage to his broken finger, has backed Usman Khawaja to replace him at No.3 in a revamped batting order.

The skipper sang praises of Khawaja before delivering a heartfelt apology to …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Ponting backs Usman Khawaja to bat No.3 in Sydney Test.

Ponting hindering renewal of Oz team by not giving up skipper’s job: Chappell

MELBOURNE – Ricky Ponting is hindering the renewal of the Australian team after a humiliating loss in the Ashes series by not giving up his skipper’s job, according to cricket legend Ian Chappell.

Ponting vowed to help rebuild the national team after it became the first to suffer two defeats by an innings in a … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Ponting hindering renewal of Oz team by not giving up skipper’s job: Chappell.

Strauss looking to win Ashes series, then world domination

SYDNEY – England may have retained the Ashes urn, but captain Andrew Strauss insists that the “holy grail” for his team is to win a series in Australia.ngland has not won a Test series in Australia since 1986-87.

“It is reassuring to know the Ashes are going to remain in England for another couple of years, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Strauss looking to win Ashes series, then world domination.

Beckhams not moving to Manhattan

NEW YORK – Soccer star David Beckham and his wife Victoria are not moving to Manhattan, it has emerged.

The couple’s publicists said that they have no plans to become New Yorkers anytime soon.

The rumour reportedly started with England’s Now magazine, which said that while the superstar athlete had to be in California as a member … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Beckhams not moving to Manhattan.

Katich rules himself out of fifth Ashes Test

MELBOURNE – Australian batsman Simon Katich, who was training strongly in a bid to return to the squad for the fifth Ashes Test, has ruled himself out of the Sydney New Year’s Test, declaring that he has not yet recovered from an Achilles injury.

Katich hobbled through much of the fourth day of the Adelaide Test … Original article on : Katich rules himself out of fifth Ashes Test.

Chappell had urged Ponting to bat at No.4 in Ashes opener

SYDNEY – Australian captain Ricky Ponting has revealed that selector Greg Chappell had suggested that he should bat at No. 4 in the ongoing Ashes series.

“He [Chappell] mentioned something briefly about the possibility of me batting No.4 for the Brisbane Test match, with someone else coming into the squad to bat at three,” The Age … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Chappell had urged Ponting to bat at No.4 in Ashes opener.

Gatting urges England to be merciless against Australia in Sydney Test

LONDON – England legend Mike Gatting has urged the team to be merciless in their pursuit of long-term success after he passed on a 24-year-old honour to Andrew Strauss.

Gatting had been the last England captain to retain the Ashes on Australian soil until Strauss emulated the feat with victory in the fourth test in Melbourne.

The … Read : Gatting urges England to be merciless against Australia in Sydney Test.

England’s best team can beat India every day of the week: Darren Gough

LONDON – Former Three Lions fast bowler Darren Gough has stirred controversy in cricket circles by saying that India are only champions on home turf, and that he fancies England beating the M.S. Dhoni-led squad every day of the week sooner than later.

Raising a toast to England’s Ashes heroes, Gough said: “We’re now the best …. Read the original article  : England’s best team can beat India every day of the week: Darren Gough.

Ponting cites captaincy record, refusing to quit

MELBOURNE – Stating that he has played 152 Tests for Australia and the fact that 99 of them had been won, captain Ricky Ponting has refused to quit as skipper even though the team has been thrashed by England.

“I’ve played (over) 150 Tests with 99 wins and have experience of winning and am well-equipped to …. Read the original article  : here.

Hewitt perfectly tuned for 2011 Hopman Cup start

PERTH – Lleyton Hewitt has pulled up fit and pleased with what he calls an uninterrupted spell of training after last getting onto a court in September and suffering an elbow injury in the Davis Cup.

But the 29-year-old Friday was not giving anyway secrets as he prepared to lead Australia into the Hopman Cup … Original article on : Hewitt perfectly tuned for 2011 Hopman Cup start.

Moores sacking came at the right time: Pietersen

SYDNEY – England batsman Kevin Pietersen Friday said his team would not have retained the Ashes had he not been in the forefront of a campaign to remove former coach Peter Moores.

The star player also said that his stepping down from England captaincy that time also helped the team.
Pietersen said there was no … Original source on Gaea Times at : Moores sacking came at the right time: Pietersen.

Ferguson recalls Man U players on loan to Preston after son’s sacking

LONDON – Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has recalled three of his players on loan to Preston after they sacked his son, Darren.

Preston has put first-team coach David Unsworth in charge for the next three matches after sacking Darren Ferguson on Wednesday.

The Deepdale club is furious at Manchester United recalling their players in …. Read the original article  : Ferguson recalls Man U players on loan to Preston after son’s sacking.

Mourinho to personally convince Fabregas to join Real Madrid

LONDON – Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho is to make a direct appeal to Arsenal skipper Cesc Fabregas to join him at the Spanish club next summer.

But the former Chelsea boss has his work cut out because the Arsenal skipper was a youth player with Real’s archrivals Barcelona.

According to sources, European champs Barcelona are favourites …. Original article  : Mourinho to personally convince Fabregas to join Real Madrid.

Chelsea turns down chance to sign star midfielder Van der Vaart

LONDON – Chelsea has turned down the chance to sign star midfielder Rafael van der Vaart in the summer on the grounds that he was not good enough.

The club hey rejected a 10 million pounds deal and instead spent 24 million pounds on Yossi Benayoun and Ramires.

Van der Vaart instead joined Tottenham for eight million …. Original article  : Chelsea turns down chance to sign star midfielder Van der Vaart.

Clarke brushes off public sentiments against his appointment

SYDNEY – Michael Clarke brushed off the strong public sentiment against his appointment as the captain and said he would use lessons learned from several years under Ricky Ponting’s tutelage to re-ignite the bumbling Australian team.

Reacting to a poll conducted by The Age, Clarke said: “I think it’s part and parcel of what we … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Clarke brushes off public sentiments against his appointment.

Ponting’s absence big loss for Australia, says Anderson

SYDNEY – England pacer James Anderson Friday said Ricky Ponting’s absence in the fifth Ashes cricket Test in Sydney will be a “big loss” for the struggling Australian side.

Anderson said despite the Australian captain’s poor form, Ponting remains a threat to the opposition because of the wealth of experience he possesses.
“He has been …. Source article  : Ponting’s absence big loss for Australia, says Anderson.

Clarke describes appointment as Sydney Test captain as temporary

SYDNEY – Stand-in Australian captain Michael Clarke has said he will refuse to captain a Test side containing Ricky Ponting.

When asked if he would captain Ponting in the Test side if asked to do so by the selectors, Clarke said: “No, I’ve always said from day one Ricky Ponting is my leader, my captain, and … Read more >>.

Team needs discipline in batting, bowling and fielding to beat Proteas: Dhoni

DURBAN – Captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni has said India still needs to be disciplined in batting, bowling and fielding to win the Test aeries against South Africa.

India levelled the series in Durban beating South Africa by 87 runs after the hosts won the first Test by an innings and 25 runs at SuperSport Park, Centurion, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Team needs discipline in batting, bowling and fielding to beat Proteas: Dhoni.

Flower lauds England bowlers for successfully utilising Kookaburra balls

SYDNEY – England coach Andy Flower has lauded his bowlers for turning the unfamiliar Kookaburra cricket balls, which was forecasted to be the team’s major weakness in Australia, into a significant strength in the ongoing Ashes series.

The ability of England’s bowling attack to move the Kookaburra ball both in the air and off the pitch … Read : Flower lauds England bowlers for successfully utilising Kookaburra balls.

I’m not here to fill Ponting’s shoes, says Usman Khawaja

SYDNEY – New South Wales batsman Usman Khawaja, who has been included in Australia’s 12-man squad for the fifth Ashes Test, has steered clear of suggestions that he may replace injured captain Ricky Ponting permanently.

Khawaja will be Ponting’s replacement in the match, starting in Sydney on Sunday.

Ponting has been ruled out of the match after … Read more >>.

English celebrations must wait until Sydney Ashes Test win: Fletcher

LONDON – Former England coach Duncan Fletcher insists the team should not be content by just retaining the Ashes, and said they must complete a 3-1 series triumph by defeating Australia in the fifth Test.

England took an unassailable 2-1 lead after crushing Australia by an innings and 157 runs in Melbourne to retain the …. Original article  : English celebrations must wait until Sydney Ashes Test win: Fletcher.

Ponting’s career is not over yet: Nielsen

LONDON – Australia coach Tim Nielsen has said skipper Ricky Ponting’s Test career is not over after injury ended his Ashes series.

Ponting will miss the final Test in Sydney after X-rays showed his broken finger was worse than thought.

Nielsen said: “I wouldn’t have thought he has captained his last match for Australia. He is …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

‘Black Eyed Peas’ to rock Chelsea owner’s New Year’s Eve bash

LONDON – Do you know who is going to perform at the New Year’s Eve bash of Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich – singer Fergie and her band ‘Black Eyed Peas’.

The Russian tycoon, girlfriend Dasha Zhukova, 29, and friends will watch the US hip-hop band rocking at his 58-million-dollar estate on the Caribbean island St Barts, …. Read the original article  : ‘Black Eyed Peas’ to rock Chelsea owner’s New Year’s Eve bash.

Oz players should be contractually bound to play in Sheffield Shield: Jones

MELBOURNE – Former Australian batsman Dean Jones reckons Australian players should be contractually required to play at least one Sheffield Shield match a season to strengthen the competition.

Jones said that the absence of national players from the domestic scene was coming at a cost to the quality of the shield competition.

“I think all Australian players … Read : Oz players should be contractually bound to play in Sheffield Shield: Jones.

Clarke will smash doubts about his leadership credentials: Nielsen

MELBOURNE – Australia’s coach Tim Nielsen has said Michael Clarke is a natural leader and will smash doubts about his leadership credentials.

Former Test great Steve Waugh noted a perceived indifference towards Clarke as successor to injured Ricky Ponting, also floating new vice-captain Brad Haddin and Tim Paine as the men to take Australia forward from …. Original source  : Clarke will smash doubts about his leadership credentials: Nielsen.

Ponting survives axe, CA endorses him as skipper

MELBOURNE – Despite calls for his sack getting louder everyday, Ricky Ponting looks certain to survive the axe as his deputy Michael Clarke and Cricket Australia (CA) have endorsed him as the Australian skipper after he returns from injury.

CA’s chief executive James Sutherland also endorsed Ponting’s continuation as skipper upon return from his injury …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Ponting survives axe, CA endorses him as skipper.

‘Bend it Like Beckham’ – first Western-made film to air in North Korea

LONDON – North Koreans got a break from the regular TV programmes this week, when British football film ‘Bend it Like Beckham’ was aired in the country.

The 2002 film stars Keira Knightley, Jonathan Rhys Myers and Parminder Nagra.

The people regularly get to see news, documentaries and soap operas, while western films are largely …. Read the original article  : ‘Bend it Like Beckham’ – first Western-made film to air in North Korea.

Performing Flower may revolutionise England cricket

SYDNEY – Having secured the Ashes at least for the next two years, coach Andy Flower believes he is now in a stronger position to convince the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) to abandon the defective system of delivering international players for England.

For Flower, the key point on his mind seems to be whether …. Source  : Performing Flower may revolutionise England cricket.

Ponting’s absence in Sydney Test will be ‘huge loss’ for Aussies: Anderson

SYDNEY – England fast bowler James Anderson reckons the absence of injured Ricky Ponting will be a “huge loss” for Australia during the fifth Ashes Test, starting in Sydney on Sunday.

Anderson said that though Ponting was in a form slump, he remains an integral part of the Australian side.

“He (Ponting) has been out of form, …. Source  : Ponting’s absence in Sydney Test will be ‘huge loss’ for Aussies: Anderson.